A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast https://luannnigara.com/a-well-designed-business en 2016 In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful business. Design school curricula doesn't always equip you with the business skills to have your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well-Designed Business® is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 40 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices. This podcast is sponsored by Kravet Inc and Mydoma Studio. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/5dbd94a6-0888-11ef-a3b7-6bbf82bd3165/image/05f51cbc02ce838da698b0685910cc70.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast https://luannnigara.com/a-well-designed-business no episodic LuAnn Nigara In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful business. Design school curricula doesn't always equip you with the business skills to have your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well-Designed Business® is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 40 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices. This podcast is sponsored by Kravet Inc and Mydoma Studio. In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful business. Design school curricula doesn't always equip you with the business skills to have your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well-Designed Business® is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 40 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices. This podcast is sponsored by Kravet Inc and Mydoma Studio.

]]> LuAnn Nigara info@luannnigara.com 1185: Kia Weatherspoon: The Cost of Performing Leadership Today With Kia Weatherspoon: Today with Kia Weatherspoon, we explore what it truly means to lead, not performatively, but fully and honestly. As the founder of Determined by Design, Kia has built a mission-driven firm rooted in the belief that interior design is not a luxury for a few, but a standard that should serve all people. In this conversation, she shares how that belief has shaped her work in affordable housing, her approach to advocacy and the way she articulates value in spaces often overlooked by the industry. But this episode goes deeper than business and design. Kia opens up about the cost of performing leadership, the importance of honoring your own humanity and how the way you see yourself directly impacts how you serve others. This is a powerful conversation about leadership, purpose and the responsibility we carry as designers to create spaces, and businesses, that truly support the people they are meant to serve. LuAnn Nigara and Kia Weatherspoon's Ah-Ha Moments “The humanity you give to yourself is reciprocated in how you serve others.” - Kia “I am my own hero.” - Kia “Interior design is not a luxury for a few—it is a standard for all.” - Kia More About Kia Weatherspoon: The most decorated black interior designer of a generation.  Kia Weatherspoon, ASID, CID, IIDA, NCIDQ, D.F.A (h.c) is unafraid to take risks. Her superpower is that she jumps – defying every design stereotype as she’s moved through the industry. The most damaging - interior design is a luxury reserved for a few.  Being the child of an addict was not something that happened to her - but for her. For a long time, she strived for this yearning to be seen and in that she realized showing up as her most authentic self was her greatest strength. Understanding showing up as who you are is what makes great leaders – she doesn’t see titles and sees others as who they are. In that she goes above and beyond not to just see them – but searches for ways to elevate, celebrate, uplift and make sure their voices are heard.  Often asked what the key to her success at Determined by Design® is,  simply put the success is that she has always checked her ego and searched for humanity. She is unafraid to challenge anyone who doesn’t see the humanity and softness every person deserves. Her vehicle to doing that happens to be through interior design - founding Determined by Design®. Her voice, presence and leadership have created ripples, prompting housing developers, agencies, and industry partners in economically challenged communities to not just take notice of her work—but to do better. Her innovative approach to design for everyone is why Determined by Design® is the only interior design firm in the nation that provides Design Equity® services.  She is an advocate, educator, speaker, business owner, leader and most of  all – she is just Kia. That is enough and why she’s been recognized as the ICFF Design of the Year, has an Honorary Doctorate from New York School of Interior Design, the ASID National Design for Humanity recipient, the HIP  Designer for Good by Interior Design Magazine, the CREW Washington, DC Raise Your Voice Awardee, a part of the Washington Business Journal’s 40  under 40 Class and the International Interior Design Association Luna  Textile/Anna Hernandez Visionary Award recipient. She is many things but  all of them are the things that make her determined by design. Connect with Kia Weatherspoon: Website Determined by Design Instagram  Determined by Design Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 Kia Weatherspoon: The Cost of Performing Leadership full LuAnn Nigara Today With Kia Weatherspoon: Today with Kia Weatherspoon, we explore what it truly means to lead, not performatively, but fully and honestly. As the founder of Determined by Design, Kia has built a mission-driven firm rooted in the belief that interior design is not a luxury for a few, but a standard that should serve all people. In this conversation, she shares how that belief has shaped her work in affordable housing, her approach to advocacy and the way she articulates value in spaces often overlooked by the industry. But this episode goes deeper than business and design. Kia opens up about the cost of performing leadership, the importance of honoring your own humanity and how the way you see yourself directly impacts how you serve others. This is a powerful conversation about leadership, purpose and the responsibility we carry as designers to create spaces, and businesses, that truly support the people they are meant to serve. LuAnn Nigara and Kia Weatherspoon's Ah-Ha Moments “The humanity you give to yourself is reciprocated in how you serve others.” - Kia “I am my own hero.” - Kia “Interior design is not a luxury for a few—it is a standard for all.” - Kia More About Kia Weatherspoon: The most decorated black interior designer of a generation.  Kia Weatherspoon, ASID, CID, IIDA, NCIDQ, D.F.A (h.c) is unafraid to take risks. Her superpower is that she jumps – defying every design stereotype as she’s moved through the industry. The most damaging - interior design is a luxury reserved for a few.  Being the child of an addict was not something that happened to her - but for her. For a long time, she strived for this yearning to be seen and in that she realized showing up as her most authentic self was her greatest strength. Understanding showing up as who you are is what makes great leaders – she doesn’t see titles and sees others as who they are. In that she goes above and beyond not to just see them – but searches for ways to elevate, celebrate, uplift and make sure their voices are heard.  Often asked what the key to her success at Determined by Design® is,  simply put the success is that she has always checked her ego and searched for humanity. She is unafraid to challenge anyone who doesn’t see the humanity and softness every person deserves. Her vehicle to doing that happens to be through interior design - founding Determined by Design®. Her voice, presence and leadership have created ripples, prompting housing developers, agencies, and industry partners in economically challenged communities to not just take notice of her work—but to do better. Her innovative approach to design for everyone is why Determined by Design® is the only interior design firm in the nation that provides Design Equity® services.  She is an advocate, educator, speaker, business owner, leader and most of  all – she is just Kia. That is enough and why she’s been recognized as the ICFF Design of the Year, has an Honorary Doctorate from New York School of Interior Design, the ASID National Design for Humanity recipient, the HIP  Designer for Good by Interior Design Magazine, the CREW Washington, DC Raise Your Voice Awardee, a part of the Washington Business Journal’s 40  under 40 Class and the International Interior Design Association Luna  Textile/Anna Hernandez Visionary Award recipient. She is many things but  all of them are the things that make her determined by design. Connect with Kia Weatherspoon: Website Determined by Design Instagram  Determined by Design Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Today With Kia Weatherspoon:

Today with Kia Weatherspoon, we explore what it truly means to lead, not performatively, but fully and honestly. As the founder of Determined by Design, Kia has built a mission-driven firm rooted in the belief that interior design is not a luxury for a few, but a standard that should serve all people. In this conversation, she shares how that belief has shaped her work in affordable housing, her approach to advocacy and the way she articulates value in spaces often overlooked by the industry.

But this episode goes deeper than business and design. Kia opens up about the cost of performing leadership, the importance of honoring your own humanity and how the way you see yourself directly impacts how you serve others. This is a powerful conversation about leadership, purpose and the responsibility we carry as designers to create spaces, and businesses, that truly support the people they are meant to serve.


LuAnn Nigara and Kia Weatherspoon's Ah-Ha Moments

“The humanity you give to yourself is reciprocated in how you serve others.” - Kia

“I am my own hero.” - Kia

“Interior design is not a luxury for a few—it is a standard for all.” - Kia

More About Kia Weatherspoon:

The most decorated black interior designer of a generation. 

Kia Weatherspoon, ASID, CID, IIDA, NCIDQ, D.F.A (h.c) is unafraid to take risks. Her superpower is that she jumps – defying every design stereotype as she’s moved through the industry. The most damaging - interior design is a luxury reserved for a few. 

Being the child of an addict was not something that happened to her - but for her. For a long time, she strived for this yearning to be seen and in that she realized showing up as her most authentic self was her greatest strength. Understanding showing up as who you are is what makes great leaders – she doesn’t see titles and sees others as who they are. In that she goes above and beyond not to just see them – but searches for ways to elevate, celebrate, uplift and make sure their voices are heard. 

Often asked what the key to her success at Determined by Design® is, 

simply put the success is that she has always checked her ego and searched for humanity. She is unafraid to challenge anyone who doesn’t see the humanity and softness every person deserves. Her vehicle to doing that happens to be through interior design - founding Determined by Design®. Her voice, presence and leadership have created ripples, prompting housing developers, agencies, and industry partners in economically challenged communities to not just take notice of her work—but to do better. Her innovative approach to design for everyone is why Determined by Design® is the only interior design firm in the nation that provides Design Equity® services. 

She is an advocate, educator, speaker, business owner, leader and most of 

all – she is just Kia. That is enough and why she’s been recognized as the ICFF

Design of the Year, has an Honorary Doctorate from New York School of

Interior Design, the ASID National Design for Humanity recipient, the HIP 

Designer for Good by Interior Design Magazine, the CREW Washington, DC Raise Your Voice Awardee, a part of the Washington Business Journal’s 40 

under 40 Class and the International Interior Design Association Luna 

Textile/Anna Hernandez Visionary Award recipient. She is many things but 

all of them are the things that make her determined by design.

Connect with Kia Weatherspoon:

Website

Determined by Design

Instagram 

Determined by Design Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠

]]> 4181 no 1184: Geraldine Morrison (NKBA): Stop Guessing—Use Industry Insight to Grow Your Business Today With Geraldine Morrison: What happens when you stop guessing in your business… and start making decisions based on real industry insight? In this episode, LuAnn is joined by Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer for Domestic and Global Brands at NKBA | KBIS. With leadership experience at brands like Samsung and LIXIL, Geraldine brings a unique perspective on how manufacturers, designers, and industry organizations intersect—and why that matters to your business. Recorded live at KBIS 2026, this conversation goes beyond what NKBA is and gets into how it actually supports you as a business owner. Because here’s the truth: many designers are making decisions in isolation. They’re relying on instinct, past experience, or what they’re seeing on social media. But that only gets you so far. Geraldine shares how access to real data, market research, and industry connection can change the way you operate. From understanding shifts in consumer behavior to recognizing where opportunities are emerging, this is about making smarter, more strategic decisions. You’ll also hear how NKBA is expanding its reach, from global initiatives like Global Connect to its growing presence at High Point Market, creating more opportunities for designers to connect, learn, and grow. If you’ve ever felt like you’re making decisions without the full picture, this episode will challenge you to think differently about where you get your information and who you’re connected to. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: AJ Madison Pro is the industry’s trusted appliance source for professionals who need fast, reliable access to top brands. Backed by nationwide shipping and a powerful logistics network, delivery is precise and dependable. With over 150 premium brands – including Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove, Miele, Viking, Thermador, Gaggenau, and more – AJ Madison Pro is your single source for appliance specification. Qualified builders and architects can save up to 15% on luxury brands through exclusive trade programs, with registration handled for you. AJ Madison Pro. Smarter appliance sourcing starts at ajmadison.com/pro. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Geraldine Morrison: What happens when you stop guessing in your business… and start making decisions based on real industry insight? In this episode, LuAnn is joined by Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer for Domestic and Global Brands at NKBA | KBIS. With leadership experience at brands like Samsung and LIXIL, Geraldine brings a unique perspective on how manufacturers, designers, and industry organizations intersect—and why that matters to your business. Recorded live at KBIS 2026, this conversation goes beyond what NKBA is and gets into how it actually supports you as a business owner. Because here’s the truth: many designers are making decisions in isolation. They’re relying on instinct, past experience, or what they’re seeing on social media. But that only gets you so far. Geraldine shares how access to real data, market research, and industry connection can change the way you operate. From understanding shifts in consumer behavior to recognizing where opportunities are emerging, this is about making smarter, more strategic decisions. You’ll also hear how NKBA is expanding its reach, from global initiatives like Global Connect to its growing presence at High Point Market, creating more opportunities for designers to connect, learn, and grow. If you’ve ever felt like you’re making decisions without the full picture, this episode will challenge you to think differently about where you get your information and who you’re connected to. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: AJ Madison Pro is the industry’s trusted appliance source for professionals who need fast, reliable access to top brands. Backed by nationwide shipping and a powerful logistics network, delivery is precise and dependable. With over 150 premium brands – including Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove, Miele, Viking, Thermador, Gaggenau, and more – AJ Madison Pro is your single source for appliance specification. Qualified builders and architects can save up to 15% on luxury brands through exclusive trade programs, with registration handled for you. AJ Madison Pro. Smarter appliance sourcing starts at ajmadison.com/pro. Today With Geraldine Morrison:

What happens when you stop guessing in your business… and start making decisions based on real industry insight?

In this episode, LuAnn is joined by Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer for Domestic and Global Brands at NKBA | KBIS. With leadership experience at brands like Samsung and LIXIL, Geraldine brings a unique perspective on how manufacturers, designers, and industry organizations intersect—and why that matters to your business.

Recorded live at KBIS 2026, this conversation goes beyond what NKBA is and gets into how it actually supports you as a business owner.

Because here’s the truth: many designers are making decisions in isolation. They’re relying on instinct, past experience, or what they’re seeing on social media. But that only gets you so far.

Geraldine shares how access to real data, market research, and industry connection can change the way you operate. From understanding shifts in consumer behavior to recognizing where opportunities are emerging, this is about making smarter, more strategic decisions.

You’ll also hear how NKBA is expanding its reach, from global initiatives like Global Connect to its growing presence at High Point Market, creating more opportunities for designers to connect, learn, and grow.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re making decisions without the full picture, this episode will challenge you to think differently about where you get your information and who you’re connected to.


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

AJ Madison Pro is the industry’s trusted appliance source for

professionals who need fast, reliable access to top brands.

Backed by nationwide shipping and a powerful logistics network,

delivery is precise and dependable.

With over 150 premium brands – including Sub-Zero, Wolf and

Cove, Miele, Viking, Thermador, Gaggenau, and more –

AJ Madison Pro is your single source for appliance specification.

Qualified builders and architects can save up to 15% on luxury

brands through exclusive trade programs, with registration

handled for you.

AJ Madison Pro. Smarter appliance sourcing starts

at ajmadison.com/pro.

]]> 1497 1183: BEST OF SHOW: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours The guest on today’s Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger’s Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger’s Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your ‘only‘, so listen in now and find out why it’s so important.   Fred creates personal bio’s and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today’s show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.   Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:   Why it’s so important for you to figure out your ‘only’. How he helps designers to arrive at their ‘only’. Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your ‘only’ phrase. How to be sure that you are really the ‘only’ one when making that claim. How to subtly modify your ‘only phrase’, if necessary. Using the word ‘specializes’ to better describe your ‘only’ and to differentiate yourself. That your ‘only’ doesn’t have to be a big thing. How having an ‘only’ helps you to charge a higher fee. How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees. How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar. Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past. That it’s often the small things that make you unique. Some examples of how you can incorporate your ‘only phrase’ into your bio, to make yourself memorable. Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart. His victory vocabulary. Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you’d like to work with towards you. That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers. ‘Only’ is not the only word, but it’s the best one! Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today’s Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger’s Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger’s Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your ‘only‘, so listen in now and find out why it’s so important.   Fred creates personal bio’s and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today’s show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.   Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:   Why it’s so important for you to figure out your ‘only’. How he helps designers to arrive at their ‘only’. Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your ‘only’ phrase. How to be sure that you are really the ‘only’ one when making that claim. How to subtly modify your ‘only phrase’, if necessary. Using the word ‘specializes’ to better describe your ‘only’ and to differentiate yourself. That your ‘only’ doesn’t have to be a big thing. How having an ‘only’ helps you to charge a higher fee. How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees. How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar. Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past. That it’s often the small things that make you unique. Some examples of how you can incorporate your ‘only phrase’ into your bio, to make yourself memorable. Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart. His victory vocabulary. Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you’d like to work with towards you. That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers. ‘Only’ is not the only word, but it’s the best one! The guest on today’s Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger’s Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger’s Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your ‘only‘, so listen in now and find out why it’s so important.

 

Fred creates personal bio’s and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today’s show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.

 

Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • Why it’s so important for you to figure out your ‘only’.
  • How he helps designers to arrive at their ‘only’.
  • Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your ‘only’ phrase.
  • How to be sure that you are really the ‘only’ one when making that claim.
  • How to subtly modify your ‘only phrase’, if necessary.
  • Using the word ‘specializes’ to better describe your ‘only’ and to differentiate yourself.
  • That your ‘only’ doesn’t have to be a big thing.
  • How having an ‘only’ helps you to charge a higher fee.
  • How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees.
  • How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar.
  • Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past.
  • That it’s often the small things that make you unique.
  • Some examples of how you can incorporate your ‘only phrase’ into your bio, to make yourself memorable.
  • Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart.
  • His victory vocabulary.
  • Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you’d like to work with towards you.
  • That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers.
  • ‘Only’ is not the only word, but it’s the best one!
]]> 2520 1182: Sponsored Show: Studio Kasa, How to Source Art That Elevates Your Projects and Increases Your Profit Today With Josh Kasper of Studio Kasa: Art is one of the most overlooked, and under-monetized, elements in interior design. In this sponsored episode, LuAnn sits down with Josh Kasper, founder of Studio Kasa, to talk about how designers can approach art differently, not just as a finishing touch, but as a strategic part of both the design and the business. Josh shares how his firm helps designers source art efficiently, elevate their projects, and create an additional revenue stream without adding more work to their plate. From understanding how to guide clients through art decisions to avoiding the endless rabbit hole of online sourcing, this conversation reframes what’s possible when you have the right process and partner in place. If you’ve ever struggled with how to confidently incorporate art into your projects, or how to make it profitable, this episode will open your eyes to a smarter way of doing it. More About Josh Kasper: Having spent almost a decade on Wall Street at iconic firms including Goldman Sachs, Josh Kasper launched himself into the art world as a collector. While engaging with traditional advisors and galleries he found the art to be too expensive and mostly based on what was considered “in” versus his unique tastes.  This brought him directly to artists’ studios, which led him to develop an Instagram feed (@_Studio Kasa_) where he could share both artists’ stories and their creation process. One day someone asked him to source artwork for their home... the rest is history. Today Josh Kasper leverages his experience in financial services and as an art curator working almost exclusively with interior designers offering various solutions at all pricing thresholds, while providing a seamless client experience. Today, his company Studio Kasa serves as a trusted resource for interior design professionals:   Curating artwork tailored to each client’s aesthetic and the unique character of every space Managing the full end-to-end process from sourcing through shipment and installation Negotiating pricing and offering competitive designer referral fees Saving designers valuable time so they can focus on their clients and core design work Connect with Studio Kasa: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Join the giveaway! Through May 5th, when you book and attend a discovery call or webinar with Josh, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a featured piece of art. (See it below!) Pretty cool, yes. But the real opportunity is this: You will learn how to turn something you’re already doinginto a structured, profitable part of your business. Go to studiokasa.art/luannand choose the session that fits your schedule and you will be entered to win! Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Josh Kasper of Studio Kasa: Art is one of the most overlooked, and under-monetized, elements in interior design. In this sponsored episode, LuAnn sits down with Josh Kasper, founder of Studio Kasa, to talk about how designers can approach art differently, not just as a finishing touch, but as a strategic part of both the design and the business. Josh shares how his firm helps designers source art efficiently, elevate their projects, and create an additional revenue stream without adding more work to their plate. From understanding how to guide clients through art decisions to avoiding the endless rabbit hole of online sourcing, this conversation reframes what’s possible when you have the right process and partner in place. If you’ve ever struggled with how to confidently incorporate art into your projects, or how to make it profitable, this episode will open your eyes to a smarter way of doing it. More About Josh Kasper: Having spent almost a decade on Wall Street at iconic firms including Goldman Sachs, Josh Kasper launched himself into the art world as a collector. While engaging with traditional advisors and galleries he found the art to be too expensive and mostly based on what was considered “in” versus his unique tastes.  This brought him directly to artists’ studios, which led him to develop an Instagram feed (@_Studio Kasa_) where he could share both artists’ stories and their creation process. One day someone asked him to source artwork for their home... the rest is history. Today Josh Kasper leverages his experience in financial services and as an art curator working almost exclusively with interior designers offering various solutions at all pricing thresholds, while providing a seamless client experience. Today, his company Studio Kasa serves as a trusted resource for interior design professionals:   Curating artwork tailored to each client’s aesthetic and the unique character of every space Managing the full end-to-end process from sourcing through shipment and installation Negotiating pricing and offering competitive designer referral fees Saving designers valuable time so they can focus on their clients and core design work Connect with Studio Kasa: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Join the giveaway! Through May 5th, when you book and attend a discovery call or webinar with Josh, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a featured piece of art. (See it below!) Pretty cool, yes. But the real opportunity is this: You will learn how to turn something you’re already doinginto a structured, profitable part of your business. Go to studiokasa.art/luannand choose the session that fits your schedule and you will be entered to win! Today With Josh Kasper of Studio Kasa:

Art is one of the most overlooked, and under-monetized, elements in interior design.

In this sponsored episode, LuAnn sits down with Josh Kasper, founder of Studio Kasa, to talk about how designers can approach art differently, not just as a finishing touch, but as a strategic part of both the design and the business.

Josh shares how his firm helps designers source art efficiently, elevate their projects, and create an additional revenue stream without adding more work to their plate. From understanding how to guide clients through art decisions to avoiding the endless rabbit hole of online sourcing, this conversation reframes what’s possible when you have the right process and partner in place.

If you’ve ever struggled with how to confidently incorporate art into your projects, or how to make it profitable, this episode will open your eyes to a smarter way of doing it.


More About Josh Kasper:

Having spent almost a decade on Wall Street at iconic firms including Goldman Sachs, Josh Kasper launched himself into the art world as a collector. While engaging with traditional advisors and galleries he found the art to be too expensive and mostly based on what was considered “in” versus his unique tastes. 

This brought him directly to artists’ studios, which led him to develop an Instagram feed (@_Studio Kasa_) where he could share both artists’ stories and their creation process. One day someone asked him to source artwork for their home... the rest is history.

Today Josh Kasper leverages his experience in financial services and as an art curator working almost exclusively with interior designers offering various solutions at all pricing thresholds, while providing a seamless client experience.

Today, his company Studio Kasa serves as a trusted resource for interior design professionals:  

  • Curating artwork tailored to each client’s aesthetic and the unique character of every space

  • Managing the full end-to-end process from sourcing through shipment and installation

  • Negotiating pricing and offering competitive designer referral fees

  • Saving designers valuable time so they can focus on their clients and core design work

Connect with Studio Kasa:

Website

Instagram


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Join the giveaway!

Through May 5th, when you book and attend a discovery call or webinar with Josh, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a featured piece of art. (See it below!)

Pretty cool, yes.

But the real opportunity is this:

You will learn how to turn something you’re already doinginto a structured, profitable part of your business.

Go to studiokasa.art/luannand choose the session that fits your schedule and you will be entered to win!

]]> 5372 1181: Sponsored Show with Duke Renders: Is AI Saving You Time… or Wasting It? Today With Duke Renders and Jenna Gaidusek: AI is everywhere right now. Some designers are excited about it. Others are frustrated by it. And many are quietly wondering… Is this actually helping my business or just adding more noise? In this episode, LuAnn sits down with Mina Duque of Duke Renders and AI expert Jenna Gaidusek to cut through the confusion and get to the truth. What is AI actually good for in the design process? Where does it fall short? And most importantly… what happens when you present something to a client that isn’t fully thought through? Because once you present it, it’s no longer an idea. It’s a promise. You’ll hear why AI can be a powerful tool for early-stage exploration—but why it cannot replace the accuracy, accountability, and decision-making required for real-world execution. Mina breaks down Duke Renders’ structured process, from clay renderings to final visuals, and how that process helps designers catch costly mistakes before they happen. And Jenna explains exactly why AI-generated images can look beautiful at first glance… but fall apart when you zoom in. This episode will change how you think about: • AI as a brainstorming tool—not a final deliverable • The difference between inspiration and execution • Why accuracy protects your profit• How better visuals lead to better decisions not just prettier presentations If you’ve been wondering whether you still need professional renderings in the age of AI, this conversation will give you your answer. And it will likely raise your standards in the process. Connect with Duke Renders: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 951Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects Episode 905Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects Episode 823Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan Episode 722Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Duke Renders and Jenna Gaidusek: AI is everywhere right now. Some designers are excited about it. Others are frustrated by it. And many are quietly wondering… Is this actually helping my business or just adding more noise? In this episode, LuAnn sits down with Mina Duque of Duke Renders and AI expert Jenna Gaidusek to cut through the confusion and get to the truth. What is AI actually good for in the design process? Where does it fall short? And most importantly… what happens when you present something to a client that isn’t fully thought through? Because once you present it, it’s no longer an idea. It’s a promise. You’ll hear why AI can be a powerful tool for early-stage exploration—but why it cannot replace the accuracy, accountability, and decision-making required for real-world execution. Mina breaks down Duke Renders’ structured process, from clay renderings to final visuals, and how that process helps designers catch costly mistakes before they happen. And Jenna explains exactly why AI-generated images can look beautiful at first glance… but fall apart when you zoom in. This episode will change how you think about: • AI as a brainstorming tool—not a final deliverable • The difference between inspiration and execution • Why accuracy protects your profit• How better visuals lead to better decisions not just prettier presentations If you’ve been wondering whether you still need professional renderings in the age of AI, this conversation will give you your answer. And it will likely raise your standards in the process. Connect with Duke Renders: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 951Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects Episode 905Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects Episode 823Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan Episode 722Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business Today With Duke Renders and Jenna Gaidusek:

AI is everywhere right now.

Some designers are excited about it. Others are frustrated by it. And many are quietly wondering…

Is this actually helping my business or just adding more noise?

In this episode, LuAnn sits down with Mina Duque of Duke Renders and AI expert Jenna Gaidusek to cut through the confusion and get to the truth.

What is AI actually good for in the design process?

Where does it fall short?

And most importantly… what happens when you present something to a client that isn’t fully thought through?

Because once you present it, it’s no longer an idea. It’s a promise.

You’ll hear why AI can be a powerful tool for early-stage exploration—but why it cannot replace the accuracy, accountability, and decision-making required for real-world execution.

Mina breaks down Duke Renders’ structured process, from clay renderings to final visuals, and how that process helps designers catch costly mistakes before they happen.

And Jenna explains exactly why AI-generated images can look beautiful at first glance… but fall apart when you zoom in.

This episode will change how you think about:

• AI as a brainstorming tool—not a final deliverable

• The difference between inspiration and execution

• Why accuracy protects your profit• How better visuals lead to better decisions not just prettier presentations

If you’ve been wondering whether you still need professional renderings in the age of AI, this conversation will give you your answer.

And it will likely raise your standards in the process.


Connect with Duke Renders:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Houzz


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 951Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects

Episode 905Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

Episode 823Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

Episode 722Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3741 1180: BEST OF SHOW: Denise Wenacur: The Design Build Business Model Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC. Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project. If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for. Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation! Show Highlights: Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part. She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well. Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome. Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways. Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction. One big successful project will generate referrals. Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed. Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team. Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client. Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners. Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area. It’s important to create the relationship first. A CFO surprise! When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients. Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast – Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live Connect with Denise! Denise’s Website Denise’s Facebook Denise’s Instagram Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5’s YouTube Channel Other episodes mentioned: #380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini #361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti #441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller #181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen #202 Enoch Sears #292 Jana Phipps Fri, 03 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC. Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project. If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for. Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation! Show Highlights: Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part. She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well. Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome. Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways. Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction. One big successful project will generate referrals. Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed. Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team. Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client. Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners. Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area. It’s important to create the relationship first. A CFO surprise! When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients. Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast – Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live Connect with Denise! Denise’s Website Denise’s Facebook Denise’s Instagram Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5’s YouTube Channel Other episodes mentioned: #380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini #361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti #441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller #181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen #202 Enoch Sears #292 Jana Phipps Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC.

Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project.

If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for.

Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation!


Show Highlights:

  • Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part.
  • She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well.
  • Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome.
  • Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways.
  • Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction.
  • One big successful project will generate referrals.
  • Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed.
  • Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team.
  • Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client.
  • Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners.
  • Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area.
  • It’s important to create the relationship first.
  • A CFO surprise!
  • When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients.
  • Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast – Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Power Talk Friday

LuAnn Live


Connect with Denise!

Denise’s Website

Denise’s Facebook

Denise’s Instagram

Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5’s YouTube Channel


Other episodes mentioned:

#380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini

#361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti

#441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller

#181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen

#202 Enoch Sears

#292 Jana Phipps

]]> 4346 1179: The Business of Interiors Community Summit: The Room That Changes Your Business Today With Rachel Usher and Rick Campos: The Business of Interiors Community Summit: The Room That Changes Your Business What if the thing that changes your business isn’t another course, another podcast, or another late night Googling session, but simply getting in the right room? In this episode, LuAnn talks with Rachel Usher, founder of The Business of Interiors, and Rick Campos, creator of the Design Biz Survival Guide, about the power of community, candid conversations, and why designers need spaces where the real business of interior design is discussed openly. This isn’t about inspiration for inspiration’s sake. It’s about sitting in a room with other designers who are asking the same questions you are, navigating the same challenges, and willing to share what’s actually working in their businesses today. If you’ve ever felt like you’re building your business on your own, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to. And more importantly, you shouldn’t. More About Rachel Usher and Rick Campos: Rachel Usher: Rachel Usher is a luxury Interior Designer, podcast host and business mentor. With over a decade of experience running an award-winning Interior Design business Rachel is now breaking down barriers within the Interior Design industry through her company The Business Of Interiors, a platform to unite designers and build a community through her podcast If These Walls Could Talk and her annual Business Of Interiors Community Summit. Rachel's  award-winning studio Usher & Co Interior Design is going from strength to strength, working on illustrious properties across the UK & internationally. Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a business coach specialising in helping interior designers run profitable, efficient businesses. Through his Design Biz Survival Guide,  Rick’s practical insights help designers streamline their processes and achieve long-term success. Connect with The Business of Interiors Community Summit: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Rachel Usher and Rick Campos: The Business of Interiors Community Summit: The Room That Changes Your Business What if the thing that changes your business isn’t another course, another podcast, or another late night Googling session, but simply getting in the right room? In this episode, LuAnn talks with Rachel Usher, founder of The Business of Interiors, and Rick Campos, creator of the Design Biz Survival Guide, about the power of community, candid conversations, and why designers need spaces where the real business of interior design is discussed openly. This isn’t about inspiration for inspiration’s sake. It’s about sitting in a room with other designers who are asking the same questions you are, navigating the same challenges, and willing to share what’s actually working in their businesses today. If you’ve ever felt like you’re building your business on your own, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to. And more importantly, you shouldn’t. More About Rachel Usher and Rick Campos: Rachel Usher: Rachel Usher is a luxury Interior Designer, podcast host and business mentor. With over a decade of experience running an award-winning Interior Design business Rachel is now breaking down barriers within the Interior Design industry through her company The Business Of Interiors, a platform to unite designers and build a community through her podcast If These Walls Could Talk and her annual Business Of Interiors Community Summit. Rachel's  award-winning studio Usher & Co Interior Design is going from strength to strength, working on illustrious properties across the UK & internationally. Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a business coach specialising in helping interior designers run profitable, efficient businesses. Through his Design Biz Survival Guide,  Rick’s practical insights help designers streamline their processes and achieve long-term success. Connect with The Business of Interiors Community Summit: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Rachel Usher and Rick Campos:

The Business of Interiors Community Summit: The Room That Changes Your Business

What if the thing that changes your business isn’t another course, another podcast, or another late night Googling session, but simply getting in the right room?

In this episode, LuAnn talks with Rachel Usher, founder of The Business of Interiors, and Rick Campos, creator of the Design Biz Survival Guide, about the power of community, candid conversations, and why designers need spaces where the real business of interior design is discussed openly.

This isn’t about inspiration for inspiration’s sake. It’s about sitting in a room with other designers who are asking the same questions you are, navigating the same challenges, and willing to share what’s actually working in their businesses today.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re building your business on your own, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to. And more importantly, you shouldn’t.


More About Rachel Usher and Rick Campos:

Rachel Usher: Rachel Usher is a luxury Interior Designer, podcast host and business mentor. With over a decade of experience running an award-winning Interior Design business Rachel is now breaking down barriers within the Interior Design industry through her company The Business Of Interiors, a platform to unite designers and build a community through her podcast If These Walls Could Talk and her annual Business Of Interiors Community Summit. Rachel's  award-winning studio Usher & Co Interior Design is going from strength to strength, working on illustrious properties across the UK & internationally.


Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a business coach specialising in helping interior designers run profitable, efficient businesses. Through his Design Biz Survival Guide,  Rick’s practical insights help designers streamline their processes and achieve long-term success.


Connect with The Business of Interiors Community Summit:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3312 1178: BEST OF SHOW: Amy Lynn Allard: Tactics for Team and Project Management Today with Amy Lynn Allard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline. Pick it apart: [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations. [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda. [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting. [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work. [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process. [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “Hire and fire off your core values.” – Amy Lynn Allard Connect with Amy Lynn Allard: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 27 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Amy Lynn Allard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline. Pick it apart: [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations. [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda. [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting. [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work. [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process. [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “Hire and fire off your core values.” – Amy Lynn Allard Connect with Amy Lynn Allard: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Amy Lynn Allard:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline.


Pick it apart:

  • [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations.

    [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda.

    [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting.

    [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work.

    [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process.

    [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach.

LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Hire and fire off your core values.” – Amy Lynn Allard


Connect with Amy Lynn Allard:

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest 


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4695 1177: Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: Define Your Personal Brand for Long-Term Career Stability Today With Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: When you hear the phrase "personal brand," do you immediately think of your color palette and your website layout? What if we are getting so caught up in the visual pieces that we are forgetting what a brand really is, and why it has to reflect who we are as humans?  My guests today, Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz, authors of The Brand of You, join the show to discuss what a personal brand really means, why your "why" is the ultimate survival tool for your business, and the importance of human connection.  More About Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: Aga Artka  Aga is known for bringing creative energy, analytical thinking, hard work, and heart to all that she does. From her work as Owner & Creative Director of Aga Artka Interior Design to her role as a mentor and community activist, she uses her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to challenge the status quo, reimagine possibilities and influence positive change. She seeks knowledge, expands her perspective and gains inspiration from the world around her. Aga’s fearless approach to her career journey exemplifies that if you have the will, then there is a way.   Jenny Rebholz Jenny is known for her compassion, positive energy, sense of responsibility and wordsmithing. As Principal of PushPoint Marketing, she focuses her creativity and communication skills on elevating others, helping professionals shine and businesses thrive. She’s the ultimate connector—whether teaching, consulting, or collaborating, Jenny prioritizes building relationships. She defines her own success by leveraging her strengths, seeking and creating opportunities. Jenny’s commitment to building impactful content and meaningful connections has forged a fulfilling career path, demonstrating that words matter and who you know is just as important as what you know. Ah Ha Moments with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: “You may choose to say whatever it is that you want to be known for. But when you're not in the conversation or when you're not in the room, if people say something different about you, then that promise that you just shared with the world—it didn't stick.” -Aga “When you start to connect with who you are as a designer, what your values are, what your purpose is…when you hit the hard moments, you know you can cry a minute, you you can scream, whatever you need to do, but when you know who you are and are clear on your brand and what you bring to the table, you're ready to figure out the next step.” -Jenny "If you don’t start with mission, vision, values, like, I’m sorry, you are going to get your teeth kicked in and you’re not gonna know how to stand up." -Luann Connect with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: Website LinkedIn LinkedIn Aga Artka LinkedIn Jenny Rebholz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #1136 David Neagle: Three Powerful Choices That Will Change Everything in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: When you hear the phrase "personal brand," do you immediately think of your color palette and your website layout? What if we are getting so caught up in the visual pieces that we are forgetting what a brand really is, and why it has to reflect who we are as humans?  My guests today, Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz, authors of The Brand of You, join the show to discuss what a personal brand really means, why your "why" is the ultimate survival tool for your business, and the importance of human connection.  More About Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: Aga Artka  Aga is known for bringing creative energy, analytical thinking, hard work, and heart to all that she does. From her work as Owner & Creative Director of Aga Artka Interior Design to her role as a mentor and community activist, she uses her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to challenge the status quo, reimagine possibilities and influence positive change. She seeks knowledge, expands her perspective and gains inspiration from the world around her. Aga’s fearless approach to her career journey exemplifies that if you have the will, then there is a way.   Jenny Rebholz Jenny is known for her compassion, positive energy, sense of responsibility and wordsmithing. As Principal of PushPoint Marketing, she focuses her creativity and communication skills on elevating others, helping professionals shine and businesses thrive. She’s the ultimate connector—whether teaching, consulting, or collaborating, Jenny prioritizes building relationships. She defines her own success by leveraging her strengths, seeking and creating opportunities. Jenny’s commitment to building impactful content and meaningful connections has forged a fulfilling career path, demonstrating that words matter and who you know is just as important as what you know. Ah Ha Moments with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: “You may choose to say whatever it is that you want to be known for. But when you're not in the conversation or when you're not in the room, if people say something different about you, then that promise that you just shared with the world—it didn't stick.” -Aga “When you start to connect with who you are as a designer, what your values are, what your purpose is…when you hit the hard moments, you know you can cry a minute, you you can scream, whatever you need to do, but when you know who you are and are clear on your brand and what you bring to the table, you're ready to figure out the next step.” -Jenny "If you don’t start with mission, vision, values, like, I’m sorry, you are going to get your teeth kicked in and you’re not gonna know how to stand up." -Luann Connect with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz: Website LinkedIn LinkedIn Aga Artka LinkedIn Jenny Rebholz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #1136 David Neagle: Three Powerful Choices That Will Change Everything in Your Interior Design Business Today With Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz:

When you hear the phrase "personal brand," do you immediately think of your color palette and your website layout? What if we are getting so caught up in the visual pieces that we are forgetting what a brand really is, and why it has to reflect who we are as humans? 

My guests today, Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz, authors of The Brand of You, join the show to discuss what a personal brand really means, why your "why" is the ultimate survival tool for your business, and the importance of human connection. 


More About Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz:

Aga Artka 

Aga is known for bringing creative energy, analytical thinking, hard work, and heart to all that she does. From her work as Owner & Creative Director of Aga Artka Interior Design to her role as a mentor and community activist, she uses her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to challenge the status quo, reimagine possibilities and influence positive change. She seeks knowledge, expands her perspective and gains inspiration from the world around her. Aga’s fearless approach to her career journey exemplifies that if you have the will, then there is a way.

 

Jenny Rebholz

Jenny is known for her compassion, positive energy, sense of responsibility and wordsmithing. As Principal of PushPoint Marketing, she focuses her creativity and communication skills on elevating others, helping professionals shine and businesses thrive. She’s the ultimate connector—whether teaching, consulting, or collaborating, Jenny prioritizes building relationships. She defines her own success by leveraging her strengths, seeking and creating opportunities. Jenny’s commitment to building impactful content and meaningful connections has forged a fulfilling career path, demonstrating that words matter and who you know is just as important as what you know.


Ah Ha Moments with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz:

“You may choose to say whatever it is that you want to be known for. But when you're not in the conversation or when you're not in the room, if people say something different about you, then that promise that you just shared with the world—it didn't stick.” -Aga

“When you start to connect with who you are as a designer, what your values are, what your purpose is…when you hit the hard moments, you know you can cry a minute, you you can scream, whatever you need to do, but when you know who you are and are clear on your brand and what you bring to the table, you're ready to figure out the next step.” -Jenny

"If you don’t start with mission, vision, values, like, I’m sorry, you are going to get your teeth kicked in and you’re not gonna know how to stand up." -Luann


Connect with Aga Artka and Jenny Rebholz:

Website

LinkedIn

LinkedIn Aga Artka

LinkedIn Jenny Rebholz


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Other Shows Mentioned:

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#1136 David Neagle: Three Powerful Choices That Will Change Everything in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3833 1176: Gage Edward: How to Stop Losing Your Furniture Market Finds Today With Gage Edward: In this sponsored episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn sits down with entrepreneur and former Flipping Out star Gage Edward to talk about a challenge every designer knows well: coming home from market with hundreds of photos… and no clear way to organize or use them. After more than a decade leading business development for a nationally recognized design firm, Gage saw firsthand how inefficient the product discovery process can be. Designers walk miles of showrooms at High Point or Las Vegas Market, snap endless photos of tags and products, and return home to a camera roll that is nearly impossible to sort through. That frustration led him to co-found Discover Market, an app designed to help designers capture and organize product information in real time while they’re walking market. In this conversation, LuAnn and Gage break down: Why sourcing at market often creates more chaos than clarity The hidden cost of leaving market without an organized system How scanning product tags can instantly capture pricing, vendor info, and availability Why efficiency at market directly impacts profitability back in your studio The bigger opportunity for designers to streamline product sourcing and project workflow If you’ve ever returned from market with hundreds of photos and no idea where that perfect chair came from, this episode will hit home. Because here’s the thing. Market is an investment. Your time, your travel, your energy. And if you don’t have a system to capture what you discover, you’re leaving value on the table. More About Gage Edward: Gage Edward is an entrepreneur and business development leader with more than a decade of experience working at the intersection of interior design, product development, and strategic partnerships. For ten years, he led business development for a nationally recognized design firm, overseeing client intake, managing interior design projects and construction builds, and developing creative partnerships with brands including Living Spaces, Walter E. Smithe, and Alder & Tweed Furniture. During that time, he structured and negotiated national licensing programs across multiple product categories — including doors with Masonite, tile with Jeffrey Court, and paint with Dunn-Edwards and Vista Paint — all sold in partnership with The Home Depot, a retail relationship he helped cultivate and expand.   Much of this work was documented over seven seasons and more than 70 episodes of Bravo’s Flipping Out, where he appeared as himself while building and operating the business behind the scenes. After a decade in leadership, Gage left to pursue independent development projects, including overseeing the design of the Pelican Golf Club and its restaurants in Belleair, Florida.  Drawing from his own challenges sourcing, discovering, and organizing vendors Gage later co-founded SideDoor and the Discover Market app — platforms built from more than 15 years of firsthand experience navigating trade shows and the product marketplace. Connect with Discover.Market: Discover.Market Instagram Discover.Market Website Gage's Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 20 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Gage Edward: In this sponsored episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn sits down with entrepreneur and former Flipping Out star Gage Edward to talk about a challenge every designer knows well: coming home from market with hundreds of photos… and no clear way to organize or use them. After more than a decade leading business development for a nationally recognized design firm, Gage saw firsthand how inefficient the product discovery process can be. Designers walk miles of showrooms at High Point or Las Vegas Market, snap endless photos of tags and products, and return home to a camera roll that is nearly impossible to sort through. That frustration led him to co-found Discover Market, an app designed to help designers capture and organize product information in real time while they’re walking market. In this conversation, LuAnn and Gage break down: Why sourcing at market often creates more chaos than clarity The hidden cost of leaving market without an organized system How scanning product tags can instantly capture pricing, vendor info, and availability Why efficiency at market directly impacts profitability back in your studio The bigger opportunity for designers to streamline product sourcing and project workflow If you’ve ever returned from market with hundreds of photos and no idea where that perfect chair came from, this episode will hit home. Because here’s the thing. Market is an investment. Your time, your travel, your energy. And if you don’t have a system to capture what you discover, you’re leaving value on the table. More About Gage Edward: Gage Edward is an entrepreneur and business development leader with more than a decade of experience working at the intersection of interior design, product development, and strategic partnerships. For ten years, he led business development for a nationally recognized design firm, overseeing client intake, managing interior design projects and construction builds, and developing creative partnerships with brands including Living Spaces, Walter E. Smithe, and Alder & Tweed Furniture. During that time, he structured and negotiated national licensing programs across multiple product categories — including doors with Masonite, tile with Jeffrey Court, and paint with Dunn-Edwards and Vista Paint — all sold in partnership with The Home Depot, a retail relationship he helped cultivate and expand.   Much of this work was documented over seven seasons and more than 70 episodes of Bravo’s Flipping Out, where he appeared as himself while building and operating the business behind the scenes. After a decade in leadership, Gage left to pursue independent development projects, including overseeing the design of the Pelican Golf Club and its restaurants in Belleair, Florida.  Drawing from his own challenges sourcing, discovering, and organizing vendors Gage later co-founded SideDoor and the Discover Market app — platforms built from more than 15 years of firsthand experience navigating trade shows and the product marketplace. Connect with Discover.Market: Discover.Market Instagram Discover.Market Website Gage's Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Gage Edward:

In this sponsored episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn sits down with entrepreneur and former Flipping Out star Gage Edward to talk about a challenge every designer knows well: coming home from market with hundreds of photos… and no clear way to organize or use them.

After more than a decade leading business development for a nationally recognized design firm, Gage saw firsthand how inefficient the product discovery process can be. Designers walk miles of showrooms at High Point or Las Vegas Market, snap endless photos of tags and products, and return home to a camera roll that is nearly impossible to sort through.

That frustration led him to co-found Discover Market, an app designed to help designers capture and organize product information in real time while they’re walking market.

In this conversation, LuAnn and Gage break down:

  • Why sourcing at market often creates more chaos than clarity

  • The hidden cost of leaving market without an organized system

  • How scanning product tags can instantly capture pricing, vendor info, and availability

  • Why efficiency at market directly impacts profitability back in your studio

  • The bigger opportunity for designers to streamline product sourcing and project workflow

If you’ve ever returned from market with hundreds of photos and no idea where that perfect chair came from, this episode will hit home.

Because here’s the thing.

Market is an investment. Your time, your travel, your energy.

And if you don’t have a system to capture what you discover, you’re leaving value on the table.


More About Gage Edward:

Gage Edward is an entrepreneur and business development leader with more than a decade of experience working at the intersection of interior design, product development, and strategic partnerships.

For ten years, he led business development for a nationally recognized design firm, overseeing client intake, managing interior design projects and construction builds, and developing creative partnerships with brands including Living Spaces, Walter E. Smithe, and Alder & Tweed Furniture.

During that time, he structured and negotiated national licensing programs across multiple product categories — including doors with Masonite, tile with Jeffrey Court, and paint with Dunn-Edwards and Vista Paint — all sold in partnership with The Home Depot, a retail relationship he helped cultivate and expand.  

Much of this work was documented over seven seasons and more than 70 episodes of Bravo’s Flipping Out, where he appeared as himself while building and operating the business behind the scenes.

After a decade in leadership, Gage left to pursue independent development projects, including overseeing the design of the Pelican Golf Club and its restaurants in Belleair, Florida. 

Drawing from his own challenges sourcing, discovering, and organizing vendors Gage later co-founded SideDoor and the Discover Market app — platforms built from more than 15 years of firsthand experience navigating trade shows and the product marketplace.


Connect with Discover.Market:

Discover.Market Instagram

Discover.Market Website

Gage's Instagram


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 2983 1175: BEST OF SHOW: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest. John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it. LuAnn Nigara and John McClain’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Until you’ve been through a serious business crisis, it’s hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara “I don’t care if you’re a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain “A lot of people don’t take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain “You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” – John McClain More About John McClain: John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John’s design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more. Connect with John McClain Website Instagram Book and Designer Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest. John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it. LuAnn Nigara and John McClain’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Until you’ve been through a serious business crisis, it’s hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara “I don’t care if you’re a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain “A lot of people don’t take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain “You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” – John McClain More About John McClain: John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John’s design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more. Connect with John McClain Website Instagram Book and Designer Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity Today With John McClain:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest.

John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it.


LuAnn Nigara and John McClain’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Until you’ve been through a serious business crisis, it’s hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I don’t care if you’re a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain

“A lot of people don’t take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain

“You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” – John McClain


More About John McClain:

John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John’s design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more.


Connect with John McClain

Website

Instagram

Book and Designer Courses


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned:

#472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

]]> 4666 1174: Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole: How to Build a Business Partnership That Lasts Today With Kandrac & Kole: What does it actually take to stay in business with someone for more than two decades? In this episode, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole of Kandrac & Kole Interior Design share what has sustained their 21-year business partnership. And no, it’s not just friendship. We talk about defined roles, decision-making authority, handling disagreement without ego, and the operational discipline that supports long-term success. This is not a conversation about “getting along.” It’s about structure. If you’re in a partnership, considering one, or leading a growing team, this episode will challenge you to examine how clearly roles are defined, how conflict is handled, and whether your leadership habits are protecting your business or quietly limiting it. Partnership is not chemistry. It’s clarity, accountability, and shared standards. Listen in and decide how you want to lead. More About Kandrac & Kole: Voted among Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designers by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has gained national recognition on HGTV and in publications including The New York Times, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine, and Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. Kandrac & Kole are known for their friendly, energetic personalities, their unique use of color and pattern, and their bespoke designs.  Joann and Kelly, experts in residential and commercial design, share engaging stories about their design projects, travels, and personal experiences on their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, as well as through their popular blog and national speaking engagements. Their passion for interior design extends to their charity work in the U.S. and Guatemala. Connect with Kandrac & Kole: Website Blog Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole Podcast Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Kandrac & Kole: What does it actually take to stay in business with someone for more than two decades? In this episode, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole of Kandrac & Kole Interior Design share what has sustained their 21-year business partnership. And no, it’s not just friendship. We talk about defined roles, decision-making authority, handling disagreement without ego, and the operational discipline that supports long-term success. This is not a conversation about “getting along.” It’s about structure. If you’re in a partnership, considering one, or leading a growing team, this episode will challenge you to examine how clearly roles are defined, how conflict is handled, and whether your leadership habits are protecting your business or quietly limiting it. Partnership is not chemistry. It’s clarity, accountability, and shared standards. Listen in and decide how you want to lead. More About Kandrac & Kole: Voted among Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designers by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has gained national recognition on HGTV and in publications including The New York Times, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine, and Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. Kandrac & Kole are known for their friendly, energetic personalities, their unique use of color and pattern, and their bespoke designs.  Joann and Kelly, experts in residential and commercial design, share engaging stories about their design projects, travels, and personal experiences on their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, as well as through their popular blog and national speaking engagements. Their passion for interior design extends to their charity work in the U.S. and Guatemala. Connect with Kandrac & Kole: Website Blog Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole Podcast Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Today With Kandrac & Kole:

What does it actually take to stay in business with someone for more than two decades?

In this episode, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole of Kandrac & Kole Interior Design share what has sustained their 21-year business partnership. And no, it’s not just friendship.

We talk about defined roles, decision-making authority, handling disagreement without ego, and the operational discipline that supports long-term success. This is not a conversation about “getting along.” It’s about structure.

If you’re in a partnership, considering one, or leading a growing team, this episode will challenge you to examine how clearly roles are defined, how conflict is handled, and whether your leadership habits are protecting your business or quietly limiting it.

Partnership is not chemistry. It’s clarity, accountability, and shared standards.

Listen in and decide how you want to lead.


More About Kandrac & Kole:

Voted among Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designers by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has gained national recognition on HGTV and in publications including The New York Times, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine, and Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. Kandrac & Kole are known for their friendly, energetic personalities, their unique use of color and pattern, and their bespoke designs. 


Joann and Kelly, experts in residential and commercial design, share engaging stories about their design projects, travels, and personal experiences on their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, as well as through their popular blog and national speaking engagements. Their passion for interior design extends to their charity work in the U.S. and Guatemala.


Connect with Kandrac & Kole:

Website

Blog

Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole Podcast

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients

]]> 4907 1173: Bri Ussery: The Relationship Between Order and Meaning Today With Bri Ussery: Today with Bri Ussery, we’re talking about a topic most of us think we’ve mastered but probably haven’t: communication as operational infrastructure. Bri, a strategist and fractional COO for interior design firms, explains why even the most well-built systems fall apart without clear, intentional language supporting them. From weekly update emails to onboarding decks to meeting notes, she shows how the words you use either reinforce your authority and stabilize your projects or quietly create ambiguity, scope creep, and timeline wobble. If you’ve ever said, “But it was in the contract,” or felt frustrated that clients aren’t responding the way you expected, this episode is for you. Bri walks us through her four pillars, how language signals expertise, how communication sets the pace, why documentation holds the truth, and how structure shapes client behavior. This conversation will challenge you to look at your processes through a new lens and strengthen the thread that runs through every client interaction. More About Bri Ussery: Bri Ussery is a strategist and fractional COO who works alongside interior design principals to build the operational architecture that sustains exceptional creative work. Her work focuses on strengthening the clarity, structure, and rhythm beneath a studio—how projects move, how decisions are made, how communication flows, and how the business measures its own health—so that vision can be executed with consistency, integrity, and financial steadiness. Bri began her career in design and understands the pace, pressure, and precision required to run a studio with a full slate of projects and a team to lead. She also saw how quickly strong work can fracture when the structure behind it isn’t steady : when timelines stretch, expectations drift, and studios are forced to reinvent the wheel with every project. She believes that the caliber of the work is magnified by the architecture that holds it and that good structure doesn’t constrain creativity, it protects it. Ah Ha Moments with Bri Ussery: “Clarity is kindness.” - Bri “Documentation holds the truth.” - Bri “There is a difference between being warm and being vague.” - LuAnn Connect with Bri Ussery: Website Architecture of Communication Deck Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Architecture of Communication Deck Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #831: Flashback Friday: Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Bri Ussery: Today with Bri Ussery, we’re talking about a topic most of us think we’ve mastered but probably haven’t: communication as operational infrastructure. Bri, a strategist and fractional COO for interior design firms, explains why even the most well-built systems fall apart without clear, intentional language supporting them. From weekly update emails to onboarding decks to meeting notes, she shows how the words you use either reinforce your authority and stabilize your projects or quietly create ambiguity, scope creep, and timeline wobble. If you’ve ever said, “But it was in the contract,” or felt frustrated that clients aren’t responding the way you expected, this episode is for you. Bri walks us through her four pillars, how language signals expertise, how communication sets the pace, why documentation holds the truth, and how structure shapes client behavior. This conversation will challenge you to look at your processes through a new lens and strengthen the thread that runs through every client interaction. More About Bri Ussery: Bri Ussery is a strategist and fractional COO who works alongside interior design principals to build the operational architecture that sustains exceptional creative work. Her work focuses on strengthening the clarity, structure, and rhythm beneath a studio—how projects move, how decisions are made, how communication flows, and how the business measures its own health—so that vision can be executed with consistency, integrity, and financial steadiness. Bri began her career in design and understands the pace, pressure, and precision required to run a studio with a full slate of projects and a team to lead. She also saw how quickly strong work can fracture when the structure behind it isn’t steady : when timelines stretch, expectations drift, and studios are forced to reinvent the wheel with every project. She believes that the caliber of the work is magnified by the architecture that holds it and that good structure doesn’t constrain creativity, it protects it. Ah Ha Moments with Bri Ussery: “Clarity is kindness.” - Bri “Documentation holds the truth.” - Bri “There is a difference between being warm and being vague.” - LuAnn Connect with Bri Ussery: Website Architecture of Communication Deck Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Architecture of Communication Deck Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #831: Flashback Friday: Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience Today With Bri Ussery:

Today with Bri Ussery, we’re talking about a topic most of us think we’ve mastered but probably haven’t: communication as operational infrastructure. Bri, a strategist and fractional COO for interior design firms, explains why even the most well-built systems fall apart without clear, intentional language supporting them. From weekly update emails to onboarding decks to meeting notes, she shows how the words you use either reinforce your authority and stabilize your projects or quietly create ambiguity, scope creep, and timeline wobble.

If you’ve ever said, “But it was in the contract,” or felt frustrated that clients aren’t responding the way you expected, this episode is for you. Bri walks us through her four pillars, how language signals expertise, how communication sets the pace, why documentation holds the truth, and how structure shapes client behavior. This conversation will challenge you to look at your processes through a new lens and strengthen the thread that runs through every client interaction.


More About Bri Ussery:

Bri Ussery is a strategist and fractional COO who works alongside interior design principals to build the operational architecture that sustains exceptional creative work.


Her work focuses on strengthening the clarity, structure, and rhythm beneath a studio—how projects move, how decisions are made, how communication flows, and how the business measures its own health—so that vision can be executed with consistency, integrity, and financial steadiness.


Bri began her career in design and understands the pace, pressure, and precision required to run a studio with a full slate of projects and a team to lead. She also saw how quickly strong work can fracture when the structure behind it isn’t steady : when timelines stretch, expectations drift, and studios are forced to reinvent the wheel with every project.


She believes that the caliber of the work is magnified by the architecture that holds it and that good structure doesn’t constrain creativity, it protects it.


Ah Ha Moments with Bri Ussery:

“Clarity is kindness.” - Bri

“Documentation holds the truth.” - Bri

“There is a difference between being warm and being vague.” - LuAnn


Connect with Bri Ussery:

Website

Architecture of Communication Deck

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Architecture of Communication Deck


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

AWDB #831: Flashback Friday: Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience

]]> 4658 1172: BEST OF SHOW: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design Today with Jessica Matteson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business. Pick it apart: [14:28] Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail [18:12] Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project [22:78] Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products [26:20] Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method [34:28] Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept [41:20] Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one [52:30] Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” – Jessica Matteson “Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” – Jessica Matteson “Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” – Jessica Matteson “You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement) More About Jessica Matteson: Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients’ unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants. Jessica’s work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State. Connect with Jessica Matteson: Website Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Matteson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business. Pick it apart: [14:28] Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail [18:12] Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project [22:78] Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products [26:20] Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method [34:28] Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept [41:20] Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one [52:30] Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” – Jessica Matteson “Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” – Jessica Matteson “Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” – Jessica Matteson “You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement) More About Jessica Matteson: Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients’ unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants. Jessica’s work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State. Connect with Jessica Matteson: Website Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Jessica Matteson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business.

Pick it apart:

[14:28] Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail

[18:12] Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project

[22:78] Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products

[26:20] Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method

[34:28] Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept

[41:20] Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one

[52:30] Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through

LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” – Jessica Matteson

“Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” – Jessica Matteson

“Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” – Jessica Matteson

“You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement)


More About Jessica Matteson: Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients’ unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants.

Jessica’s work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State.

Connect with Jessica Matteson:

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4412 1171: Jenna Gaidusek: AI Ethics for Interior Designers: Protecting Your Clients and Brand Today With Jenna Gaidusek: AI is not going anywhere. But how you use it inside your design firm? That’s a leadership decision. In this follow-up conversation with Jenna Gaidusek, we move beyond what AI can do and dig into what it should do inside your business. Because here’s the thing: Ignoring AI is not leadership.But using it without standards? That’s not leadership either. In this episode, we talk about: What is absolutely off-limits when using AI Why uploading other people’s intellectual property is a hard no How to protect client financial and project data Why “Chat said so” is not a strategy How to create internal SOPs and guardrails for your team AI is a tool. It is not exercising judgment for you. It is not leading your business for you. If you are the principal of your firm, you are responsible for how this technology is used. This episode will help you think like a CEO in the age of AI and put boundaries in place before problems arise. Because systems create freedom. And standards protect integrity. More About Jenna Gaidusek: Meet Jenna Gaidusek, a visionary entrepreneur, interior designer, and one of the most trusted voices in the world of design technology. As the founder of AI for Interior Designers ™, Jenna has dedicated her career to helping creative professionals navigate the fast-changing landscape of artificial intelligence with confidence, clarity, and a healthy dose of curiosity. Jenna’s approach is refreshingly practical and deeply human. She understands that, for many designers, AI can seem intimidating or out of reach. That’s why she’s made it her mission to break down complex concepts into real-world strategies that anyone can understand and apply—no tech background required. Through her on-demand learning platform, The DAIly, as well as live workshops, in- person events, and personalized advisory, Jenna empowers designers to use AI not just as a buzzword, but as a genuine tool for creativity, efficiency, and business growth. A longtime advocate for ethical technology, Jenna partners with leading industry groups and publications to ensure that AI is used responsibly and transparently in the design world. Her insights are grounded in real experience: before becoming a tech educator, Jenna built a thriving design firm and launched platforms like eDesign Tribe and eDesign U, both acquired by Mydoma Studio in 2022. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek: Website Instagram  Youtube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB EP.618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design AWDB EP.911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio AWDB EP. 1110: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jenna Gaidusek: AI is not going anywhere. But how you use it inside your design firm? That’s a leadership decision. In this follow-up conversation with Jenna Gaidusek, we move beyond what AI can do and dig into what it should do inside your business. Because here’s the thing: Ignoring AI is not leadership.But using it without standards? That’s not leadership either. In this episode, we talk about: What is absolutely off-limits when using AI Why uploading other people’s intellectual property is a hard no How to protect client financial and project data Why “Chat said so” is not a strategy How to create internal SOPs and guardrails for your team AI is a tool. It is not exercising judgment for you. It is not leading your business for you. If you are the principal of your firm, you are responsible for how this technology is used. This episode will help you think like a CEO in the age of AI and put boundaries in place before problems arise. Because systems create freedom. And standards protect integrity. More About Jenna Gaidusek: Meet Jenna Gaidusek, a visionary entrepreneur, interior designer, and one of the most trusted voices in the world of design technology. As the founder of AI for Interior Designers ™, Jenna has dedicated her career to helping creative professionals navigate the fast-changing landscape of artificial intelligence with confidence, clarity, and a healthy dose of curiosity. Jenna’s approach is refreshingly practical and deeply human. She understands that, for many designers, AI can seem intimidating or out of reach. That’s why she’s made it her mission to break down complex concepts into real-world strategies that anyone can understand and apply—no tech background required. Through her on-demand learning platform, The DAIly, as well as live workshops, in- person events, and personalized advisory, Jenna empowers designers to use AI not just as a buzzword, but as a genuine tool for creativity, efficiency, and business growth. A longtime advocate for ethical technology, Jenna partners with leading industry groups and publications to ensure that AI is used responsibly and transparently in the design world. Her insights are grounded in real experience: before becoming a tech educator, Jenna built a thriving design firm and launched platforms like eDesign Tribe and eDesign U, both acquired by Mydoma Studio in 2022. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek: Website Instagram  Youtube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB EP.618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design AWDB EP.911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio AWDB EP. 1110: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business Today With Jenna Gaidusek:

AI is not going anywhere.

But how you use it inside your design firm? That’s a leadership decision.

In this follow-up conversation with Jenna Gaidusek, we move beyond what AI can do and dig into what it should do inside your business.

Because here’s the thing:

Ignoring AI is not leadership.But using it without standards? That’s not leadership either.


In this episode, we talk about:

  • What is absolutely off-limits when using AI

  • Why uploading other people’s intellectual property is a hard no

  • How to protect client financial and project data

  • Why “Chat said so” is not a strategy

  • How to create internal SOPs and guardrails for your team

AI is a tool. It is not exercising judgment for you. It is not leading your business for you.

If you are the principal of your firm, you are responsible for how this technology is used.

This episode will help you think like a CEO in the age of AI and put boundaries in place before problems arise.

Because systems create freedom. And standards protect integrity.

More About Jenna Gaidusek:

Meet Jenna Gaidusek, a visionary entrepreneur, interior designer, and

one of the most trusted voices in the world of design technology. As

the founder of AI for Interior Designers ™, Jenna has dedicated her

career to helping creative professionals navigate the fast-changing

landscape of artificial intelligence with confidence, clarity, and a

healthy dose of curiosity.


Jenna’s approach is refreshingly practical and deeply human. She

understands that, for many designers, AI can seem intimidating or

out of reach. That’s why she’s made it her mission to break down

complex concepts into real-world strategies that anyone can

understand and apply—no tech background required. Through her

on-demand learning platform, The DAIly, as well as live workshops, in-

person events, and personalized advisory, Jenna empowers designers

to use AI not just as a buzzword, but as a genuine tool for creativity,

efficiency, and business growth.


A longtime advocate for ethical technology, Jenna partners with

leading industry groups and publications to ensure that AI is used

responsibly and transparently in the design world. Her insights are

grounded in real experience: before becoming a tech educator, Jenna

built a thriving design firm and launched platforms like eDesign Tribe

and eDesign U, both acquired by Mydoma Studio in 2022.


Connect with Jenna Gaidusek:

Website

Instagram 

Youtube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB EP.618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design


AWDB EP.911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio

AWDB EP. 1110: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business

]]> 3107 1170: BEST OF SHOW: Meryl Santopietro: How to Re-Invent, Re Vitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years Today with Meryl Santopietro: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Meryl Santopietro. She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day. More About Meryl Santopietro: SANTOPIETRO INTERIORS is a family design firm based in New York City and Rhode Island, that is highly sought after for their diverse, expertly executed style, careful attention to detail and unparalleled project management expertise on the grandest scale. This A.S.I.D. (American Society of Interior Designers) Award winning design firm specializes in residential and commercial interior design servicing the most prominent figures in the worlds of media, fashion and finance. The varied backgrounds and expertise of the firm’s members provide clients with an unprecedented, comprehensive approach to design and careful attention to detail. Meryl, the founder and creative director, brings to the team a fine arts background with degrees from the University of California at Berkeley and Rhode Island School of Design and more than 30 years experience spearheading all levels of design projects. Alessandra, senior designer, has an apparel design degree from Rhode Island School of Design and experience working for some of the most notable fashion houses, including Ralph Lauren. Joy, director of marketing and development, brings a legal background with a law degree from Suffolk University and concentration in Intellectual Property law. Together, their ability to listen to their clients and transform spaces into oasis, tailored to each individual and their lifestyle is what makes them so unique and so beloved by their clients.  Connect with Meryl Santopietro: ⁠Website⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠luannuniversity.com⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Pre-Order Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 BEST OF SHOW: Meryl Santopietro: How to Re-Invent, Re Vitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years full LuAnn Nigara Today with Meryl Santopietro: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Meryl Santopietro. She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day. More About Meryl Santopietro: SANTOPIETRO INTERIORS is a family design firm based in New York City and Rhode Island, that is highly sought after for their diverse, expertly executed style, careful attention to detail and unparalleled project management expertise on the grandest scale. This A.S.I.D. (American Society of Interior Designers) Award winning design firm specializes in residential and commercial interior design servicing the most prominent figures in the worlds of media, fashion and finance. The varied backgrounds and expertise of the firm’s members provide clients with an unprecedented, comprehensive approach to design and careful attention to detail. Meryl, the founder and creative director, brings to the team a fine arts background with degrees from the University of California at Berkeley and Rhode Island School of Design and more than 30 years experience spearheading all levels of design projects. Alessandra, senior designer, has an apparel design degree from Rhode Island School of Design and experience working for some of the most notable fashion houses, including Ralph Lauren. Joy, director of marketing and development, brings a legal background with a law degree from Suffolk University and concentration in Intellectual Property law. Together, their ability to listen to their clients and transform spaces into oasis, tailored to each individual and their lifestyle is what makes them so unique and so beloved by their clients.  Connect with Meryl Santopietro: ⁠Website⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠luannuniversity.com⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Pre-Order Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Today with Meryl Santopietro:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Meryl Santopietro. She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day.

More About Meryl Santopietro:

SANTOPIETRO INTERIORS is a family design firm based in New York City and Rhode Island, that is highly sought after for their diverse, expertly executed style, careful attention to detail and unparalleled project management expertise on the grandest scale. This A.S.I.D. (American Society of Interior Designers) Award winning design firm specializes in residential and commercial interior design servicing the most prominent figures in the worlds of media, fashion and finance. 
The varied backgrounds and expertise of the firm’s members provide clients with an unprecedented, comprehensive approach to design and careful attention to detail. Meryl, the founder and creative director, brings to the team a fine arts background with degrees from the University of California at Berkeley and Rhode Island School of Design and more than 30 years experience spearheading all levels of design projects. 
Alessandra, senior designer, has an apparel design degree from Rhode Island School of Design and experience working for some of the most notable fashion houses, including Ralph Lauren. 
Joy, director of marketing and development, brings a legal background with a law degree from Suffolk University and concentration in Intellectual Property law. 
Together, their ability to listen to their clients and transform spaces into oasis, tailored to each individual and their lifestyle is what makes them so unique and so beloved by their clients. 

Connect with Meryl Santopietro:

⁠Website⁠

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠luannuniversity.com⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Pre-Order Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠

]]> 3261 1169: What Would Lu Do?: Now That It Works, Lead It Today With LuAnn Nigara: A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Anniversary Series, Part 5 What happens when your business finally works? The referrals are steady.The revenue is consistent.The team exists. For many entrepreneurs, this is where survival ends. But it’s also where drift can begin. In Part 5 of the 10-Year Anniversary Series, LuAnn shares the leadership shift that happens after stability. Through a pivotal story from her early years at Window Works and a transparent look at her recent recalibration of the podcast itself, she unpacks what it really means to lead what you’ve built. This episode is about: • Recognizing where your real value lives• Avoiding drift when things feel comfortable• Recalibrating your business to serve both your mission and your life• Designing the next decade intentionally If your business works… this episode is your mirror. Because once it works, your job changes. Now you must lead it. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A WELL-DESIGNED BUSINESS® 10-YEAR BIRTHDAY SERIES Part 5 Today With LuAnn Nigara: A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Anniversary Series, Part 5 What happens when your business finally works? The referrals are steady.The revenue is consistent.The team exists. For many entrepreneurs, this is where survival ends. But it’s also where drift can begin. In Part 5 of the 10-Year Anniversary Series, LuAnn shares the leadership shift that happens after stability. Through a pivotal story from her early years at Window Works and a transparent look at her recent recalibration of the podcast itself, she unpacks what it really means to lead what you’ve built. This episode is about: • Recognizing where your real value lives• Avoiding drift when things feel comfortable• Recalibrating your business to serve both your mission and your life• Designing the next decade intentionally If your business works… this episode is your mirror. Because once it works, your job changes. Now you must lead it. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Today With LuAnn Nigara:

A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Anniversary Series, Part 5

What happens when your business finally works?

The referrals are steady.The revenue is consistent.The team exists.

For many entrepreneurs, this is where survival ends.

But it’s also where drift can begin.

In Part 5 of the 10-Year Anniversary Series, LuAnn shares the leadership shift that happens after stability. Through a pivotal story from her early years at Window Works and a transparent look at her recent recalibration of the podcast itself, she unpacks what it really means to lead what you’ve built.


This episode is about:

• Recognizing where your real value lives• Avoiding drift when things feel comfortable• Recalibrating your business to serve both your mission and your life• Designing the next decade intentionally

If your business works… this episode is your mirror.

Because once it works, your job changes.

Now you must lead it.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

]]> 1479 1168: Christa O'Leary: How Psychology Transforms Client Communication and Satisfaction Today With Christa O’Leary: Today with Christa O'Leary, we explore how her background in psychology and marriage and family therapy completely transformed the way she approaches design. Christa shows us that great design isn't just about aesthetics, it's about creating environments that support wellness, help clients thrive, and make them feel how they want to feel when they walk through the door. Ever feel like your design work would be even better if you truly understood the people you're designing for, not just their style preferences, but how they really live, what they struggle with, and how they want to feel in their spaces? Christa talks about learning to speak your client's language (not designer language), assessing spaces in ways design school never taught, and why understanding personality types can be your greatest tool for client communication. Your design work can go deeper. It can change lives. More About Christa O’Leary: Founder and CEO of Home in Harmony Designs, Christa O’ Leary leads a distinguished design firm renowned for crafting exquisite interiors that elevate both aesthetic beauty and the well-being of her clients. With a rare combination of expertise— holding dual degrees in psychology and human development— O'Leary’ s foundation in marriage and family therapy uniquely informs her philosophy of “Design Inspired Living,” where interiors not only reflect personal style but also foster emotional and physical wellness. A celebrated figure in the world of interior design, O’ Leary has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Design Firms by Designer’s Today magazine and hailed as the “One to Watch” by Modern Luxury Magazine. Her insights and innovative approach have positioned her as a thought leader in the industry. She has shared her expertise as a keynote speaker at the prestigious High Point Market and participated as a Market Pro, further solidifying her influence in the design community. Additionally, she has been a featured speaker on the Traditional Home panel at HPMKT, offering her unique perspective on creating spaces that nurture and inspire. A celebrated author and advocate for sustainable living, Christa’ s work has captured the attention of national media, with appearances on CBS, NBC, and The Hallmark Channel. As a sought-after motivational speaker, she has inspired audiences worldwide, appearing on renowned radio shows and podcasts. Her signature designs, regularly featured in prestigious publications such as Modern Luxury, Designer's Today, New England Home, Luxury Interiors, and by the acclaimed international fabric house Kravet, encourage a life of elegance, harmony, and vitality. Most recently, O’Leary’s work was highlighted in the 2025 Hamptons Cottages & Gardens showhouse with her spectacular dining room space that was an overwhelming Instagram favorite. Through her visionary leadership at Home in Harmony Designs, Christa continues to push the boundaries of traditional interior design, blending her deep understanding of aesthetics and human psychology to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply enriching those who inhabit them. Connect with Christa O’Leary: Website Instagram  Facebook  Book: Home in Harmony: Designing an Inspired Life Clutter Clearing Challenge Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes #1081: Tracee Murphy: The Psychology of Luxury Sales in Interior Design Fri, 20 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Christa O’Leary: Today with Christa O'Leary, we explore how her background in psychology and marriage and family therapy completely transformed the way she approaches design. Christa shows us that great design isn't just about aesthetics, it's about creating environments that support wellness, help clients thrive, and make them feel how they want to feel when they walk through the door. Ever feel like your design work would be even better if you truly understood the people you're designing for, not just their style preferences, but how they really live, what they struggle with, and how they want to feel in their spaces? Christa talks about learning to speak your client's language (not designer language), assessing spaces in ways design school never taught, and why understanding personality types can be your greatest tool for client communication. Your design work can go deeper. It can change lives. More About Christa O’Leary: Founder and CEO of Home in Harmony Designs, Christa O’ Leary leads a distinguished design firm renowned for crafting exquisite interiors that elevate both aesthetic beauty and the well-being of her clients. With a rare combination of expertise— holding dual degrees in psychology and human development— O'Leary’ s foundation in marriage and family therapy uniquely informs her philosophy of “Design Inspired Living,” where interiors not only reflect personal style but also foster emotional and physical wellness. A celebrated figure in the world of interior design, O’ Leary has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Design Firms by Designer’s Today magazine and hailed as the “One to Watch” by Modern Luxury Magazine. Her insights and innovative approach have positioned her as a thought leader in the industry. She has shared her expertise as a keynote speaker at the prestigious High Point Market and participated as a Market Pro, further solidifying her influence in the design community. Additionally, she has been a featured speaker on the Traditional Home panel at HPMKT, offering her unique perspective on creating spaces that nurture and inspire. A celebrated author and advocate for sustainable living, Christa’ s work has captured the attention of national media, with appearances on CBS, NBC, and The Hallmark Channel. As a sought-after motivational speaker, she has inspired audiences worldwide, appearing on renowned radio shows and podcasts. Her signature designs, regularly featured in prestigious publications such as Modern Luxury, Designer's Today, New England Home, Luxury Interiors, and by the acclaimed international fabric house Kravet, encourage a life of elegance, harmony, and vitality. Most recently, O’Leary’s work was highlighted in the 2025 Hamptons Cottages & Gardens showhouse with her spectacular dining room space that was an overwhelming Instagram favorite. Through her visionary leadership at Home in Harmony Designs, Christa continues to push the boundaries of traditional interior design, blending her deep understanding of aesthetics and human psychology to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply enriching those who inhabit them. Connect with Christa O’Leary: Website Instagram  Facebook  Book: Home in Harmony: Designing an Inspired Life Clutter Clearing Challenge Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes #1081: Tracee Murphy: The Psychology of Luxury Sales in Interior Design Today With Christa O’Leary:

Today with Christa O'Leary, we explore how her background in psychology and marriage and family therapy completely transformed the way she approaches design. Christa shows us that great design isn't just about aesthetics, it's about creating environments that support wellness, help clients thrive, and make them feel how they want to feel when they walk through the door.

Ever feel like your design work would be even better if you truly understood the people you're designing for, not just their style preferences, but how they really live, what they struggle with, and how they want to feel in their spaces? Christa talks about learning to speak your client's language (not designer language), assessing spaces in ways design school never taught, and why understanding personality types can be your greatest tool for client communication.

Your design work can go deeper. It can change lives.


More About Christa O’Leary:

Founder and CEO of Home in Harmony Designs, Christa O’ Leary leads a distinguished design firm renowned for crafting exquisite interiors that elevate both aesthetic beauty and the well-being of her clients. With a rare combination of expertise— holding dual degrees in psychology and human development— O'Leary’ s foundation in marriage and family therapy uniquely informs her philosophy of “Design Inspired Living,” where interiors not only reflect personal style but also foster emotional and physical wellness.

A celebrated figure in the world of interior design, O’ Leary has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Design Firms by Designer’s Today magazine and hailed as the “One to Watch” by Modern Luxury Magazine. Her insights and innovative approach have positioned her as a thought leader in the industry. She has shared her expertise as a keynote speaker at the prestigious High Point Market and participated as a Market Pro, further solidifying her influence in the design community. Additionally, she has been a featured speaker on the Traditional Home panel at HPMKT, offering her unique perspective on creating spaces that nurture and inspire. A celebrated author and advocate for sustainable living, Christa’ s work has captured the attention of national media, with appearances on CBS, NBC, and The Hallmark Channel. As a sought-after motivational speaker, she has inspired audiences worldwide, appearing on renowned radio shows and podcasts. Her signature designs, regularly featured in prestigious publications such as Modern Luxury, Designer's Today, New England Home, Luxury Interiors, and by the acclaimed international fabric house Kravet, encourage a life of elegance, harmony, and vitality. Most recently, O’Leary’s work was highlighted in the 2025 Hamptons Cottages & Gardens showhouse with her spectacular dining room space that was an overwhelming Instagram favorite.

Through her visionary leadership at Home in Harmony Designs, Christa continues to push the boundaries of traditional interior design, blending her deep understanding of aesthetics and human psychology to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply enriching those who inhabit them.


Connect with Christa O’Leary:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Book: Home in Harmony: Designing an Inspired Life

Clutter Clearing Challenge


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Other Shows Mentioned:

#892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes


#1081: Tracee Murphy: The Psychology of Luxury Sales in Interior Design

]]> 3581 1167: What Would Lu Do?: When Your Business Starts Working… Now What? Today With LuAnn Nigara: When your business starts working, everything changes. In Part Four of the 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn shares the shift that happens when success creates complexity — and why growth without structure leads to burnout. What began as one microphone and one clear promise eventually became something bigger. More responsibility. More demand. More opportunity. And with that came a critical realization: You don’t scale by saying yes to everything.You scale by designing intentionally. In this episode, LuAnn walks through how A Well-Designed Business® evolved from a podcast into a thoughtfully built ecosystem — including Power Talk Friday, LuAnn University, Chairman of the Board, and the newly emerging Boardroom for Creatives. But this isn’t about the programs. It’s about the pattern. If you’ve moved from one-room projects to full homes…If you’ve tested new services and refined your offers…If you’ve felt the pressure of success and wondered how to protect your standards… This episode will help you see your own business more clearly. Because building the house is one level. Designing it on purpose is another. And leading what you’ve built into the next decade? That’s where we’re headed next. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A WELL-DESIGNED BUSINESS® 10-YEAR BIRTHDAY SERIES Part 4 Today With LuAnn Nigara: When your business starts working, everything changes. In Part Four of the 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn shares the shift that happens when success creates complexity — and why growth without structure leads to burnout. What began as one microphone and one clear promise eventually became something bigger. More responsibility. More demand. More opportunity. And with that came a critical realization: You don’t scale by saying yes to everything.You scale by designing intentionally. In this episode, LuAnn walks through how A Well-Designed Business® evolved from a podcast into a thoughtfully built ecosystem — including Power Talk Friday, LuAnn University, Chairman of the Board, and the newly emerging Boardroom for Creatives. But this isn’t about the programs. It’s about the pattern. If you’ve moved from one-room projects to full homes…If you’ve tested new services and refined your offers…If you’ve felt the pressure of success and wondered how to protect your standards… This episode will help you see your own business more clearly. Because building the house is one level. Designing it on purpose is another. And leading what you’ve built into the next decade? That’s where we’re headed next. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Today With LuAnn Nigara:

When your business starts working, everything changes.

In Part Four of the 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn shares the shift that happens when success creates complexity — and why growth without structure leads to burnout.

What began as one microphone and one clear promise eventually became something bigger. More responsibility. More demand. More opportunity. And with that came a critical realization:

You don’t scale by saying yes to everything.You scale by designing intentionally.

In this episode, LuAnn walks through how A Well-Designed Business® evolved from a podcast into a thoughtfully built ecosystem — including Power Talk Friday, LuAnn University, Chairman of the Board, and the newly emerging Boardroom for Creatives.

But this isn’t about the programs.

It’s about the pattern.

If you’ve moved from one-room projects to full homes…If you’ve tested new services and refined your offers…If you’ve felt the pressure of success and wondered how to protect your standards…

This episode will help you see your own business more clearly.

Because building the house is one level.

Designing it on purpose is another.

And leading what you’ve built into the next decade?

That’s where we’re headed next.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

]]> 1890 1166: BEST OF SHOW: Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design Today with Marie Flanigan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more! LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments: “I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan “You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan “Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan “It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Marie Flanigan: Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service. Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother. In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase. Connect with Marie Flanigan: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm #50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Marie Flanigan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more! LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments: “I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan “You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan “Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan “It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Marie Flanigan: Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service. Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother. In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase. Connect with Marie Flanigan: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm #50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today with Marie Flanigan:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more!


LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan


“You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan


“Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan


“It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Marie Flanigan:

Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service.

Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother.

In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase.

Connect with Marie Flanigan:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm

#50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 4984 1165: Megan Dahle: A Four-Part Framework for Making Sense of Your Business Numbers Today With Megan Dahle: If your books are clean but your decisions still feel heavy, this episode is for you. My guest today, Megan Dahle, is a fractional CFO for creative business owners, and she has a unique way of helping entrepreneurs understand what their numbers are actually telling them without shame, overwhelm, or judgment. In this conversation, Megan shares her four-part framework for looking at your business numbers in a way that supports better decisions, calmer leadership, and long-term sustainability. We talk about the difference between historical information and future insight, why operational expenses are often misunderstood, and how clarity in how money comes in and moves through your business directly impacts your confidence as a decision-maker. This is not an accounting lesson. It’s a conversation about understanding patterns, recognizing direction, and leading your business with intention instead of fear. If you’ve ever thought, “I should feel better about my business than I do,” this episode will help you understand why and what to pay attention to next. More About Megan Dahle: As someone who has seen the intimate ups and downs inside hundreds of small businesses, including her own, Megan Dahle (pronounced “Dolly”) has an uncanny ability to spot the invisible habits, processes, and fears that make running a business harder than it needs to be. From a young age, Megan could “see” numbers inf the form of shapes and colors. Today, she uses that gift to translate confusing spreadsheets and financial statements into visual, intuitive tools that help creative business owners understand what their resources are actually buying, where growth is possible, and what kind of work truly lights them up. Megan doesn’t tell people what to do. Instead, she helps them uncover their own path by illuminating what’s been unseen and getting brutally but lovingly honest about their relationship with their business.  With a Master’s degree in accounting and 23 years of experience, Megan has spent the last nine years helping creative founders realize just how smart and capable they already are. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her wandering through gardens, playing at the bridge club, or curled up on the couch with a good book. Connect with Megan Dahle: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Register FREE for Prereqs for Success: Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Megan Dahle: If your books are clean but your decisions still feel heavy, this episode is for you. My guest today, Megan Dahle, is a fractional CFO for creative business owners, and she has a unique way of helping entrepreneurs understand what their numbers are actually telling them without shame, overwhelm, or judgment. In this conversation, Megan shares her four-part framework for looking at your business numbers in a way that supports better decisions, calmer leadership, and long-term sustainability. We talk about the difference between historical information and future insight, why operational expenses are often misunderstood, and how clarity in how money comes in and moves through your business directly impacts your confidence as a decision-maker. This is not an accounting lesson. It’s a conversation about understanding patterns, recognizing direction, and leading your business with intention instead of fear. If you’ve ever thought, “I should feel better about my business than I do,” this episode will help you understand why and what to pay attention to next. More About Megan Dahle: As someone who has seen the intimate ups and downs inside hundreds of small businesses, including her own, Megan Dahle (pronounced “Dolly”) has an uncanny ability to spot the invisible habits, processes, and fears that make running a business harder than it needs to be. From a young age, Megan could “see” numbers inf the form of shapes and colors. Today, she uses that gift to translate confusing spreadsheets and financial statements into visual, intuitive tools that help creative business owners understand what their resources are actually buying, where growth is possible, and what kind of work truly lights them up. Megan doesn’t tell people what to do. Instead, she helps them uncover their own path by illuminating what’s been unseen and getting brutally but lovingly honest about their relationship with their business.  With a Master’s degree in accounting and 23 years of experience, Megan has spent the last nine years helping creative founders realize just how smart and capable they already are. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her wandering through gardens, playing at the bridge club, or curled up on the couch with a good book. Connect with Megan Dahle: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Register FREE for Prereqs for Success: Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Today With Megan Dahle:

If your books are clean but your decisions still feel heavy, this episode is for you.

My guest today, Megan Dahle, is a fractional CFO for creative business owners, and she has a unique way of helping entrepreneurs understand what their numbers are actually telling them without shame, overwhelm, or judgment.

In this conversation, Megan shares her four-part framework for looking at your business numbers in a way that supports better decisions, calmer leadership, and long-term sustainability. We talk about the difference between historical information and future insight, why operational expenses are often misunderstood, and how clarity in how money comes in and moves through your business directly impacts your confidence as a decision-maker.

This is not an accounting lesson. It’s a conversation about understanding patterns, recognizing direction, and leading your business with intention instead of fear.

If you’ve ever thought, “I should feel better about my business than I do,” this episode will help you understand why and what to pay attention to next.


More About Megan Dahle:

As someone who has seen the intimate ups and downs inside hundreds of small businesses, including her own, Megan Dahle (pronounced “Dolly”) has an uncanny ability to spot the invisible habits, processes, and fears that make running a business harder than it needs to be.


From a young age, Megan could “see” numbers inf the form of shapes and colors. Today, she uses that gift to translate confusing spreadsheets and financial statements into visual, intuitive tools that help creative business owners understand what their resources are actually buying, where growth is possible, and what kind of work truly lights them up.


Megan doesn’t tell people what to do. Instead, she helps them uncover their own path by illuminating what’s been unseen and getting brutally but lovingly honest about their relationship with their business. 


With a Master’s degree in accounting and 23 years of experience, Megan has spent the last nine years helping creative founders realize just how smart and capable they already are.


When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her wandering through gardens, playing at the bridge club, or curled up on the couch with a good book.


Connect with Megan Dahle:

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Register FREE for Prereqs for Success:


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

]]> 4772 1164: WWLD: When Responsibility Became Stewardship Today With LuAnn Nigara: In Part Three of the A Well-Designed Business 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn moves the story forward into the phase almost no one prepares you for. The moment when hustle stops being the solution. Not because the work disappears. But because the work changes. By this point, the podcast no longer depended on LuAnn doing everything herself. It depended on something else entirely. Stewardship. In this episode, LuAnn shares what happens when stepping out of the weeds doesn’t mean stepping away, but stepping into a different level of responsibility. A level she had lived through before while growing Window Works, and one she recognized just in time this time around. You’ll hear how the work shifted from execution to bigger thinking, and why growth at this stage demands more discernment, not more effort. LuAnn walks through: What replaces doing when you stop doing everything Why long-term alignment matters more than enthusiasm How LuAnn University evolved from great courses into a true business school for creatives Why speaking engagements, partnerships, and opportunities must earn their yes How responsibility expands when you’re accountable to communities, not just yourself The difference between visibility and values Why some of the hardest no’s look great on paper And how leadership without ego creates stronger outcomes for everyone involved This is also the season where decisions began running through a future lens. Five years. Ten years. Twenty years. Will this still matter? Will I still be proud of it? And what happens when I’m no longer here to run it? This episode is about the quiet shift from building something exciting to protecting something meaningful. From growth to guardianship. From proving to preserving. If you’ve ever felt the weight of success get heavier instead of lighter, this episode will help you understand why. And why that weight is not a problem to solve, but a responsibility to lead. In the next episode, LuAnn will share what came next. The structures. The systems. And the decisions that allowed the business to grow without losing its soul. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A WELL-DESIGNED BUSINESS® 10-YEAR BIRTHDAY SERIES Part 3 Today With LuAnn Nigara: In Part Three of the A Well-Designed Business 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn moves the story forward into the phase almost no one prepares you for. The moment when hustle stops being the solution. Not because the work disappears. But because the work changes. By this point, the podcast no longer depended on LuAnn doing everything herself. It depended on something else entirely. Stewardship. In this episode, LuAnn shares what happens when stepping out of the weeds doesn’t mean stepping away, but stepping into a different level of responsibility. A level she had lived through before while growing Window Works, and one she recognized just in time this time around. You’ll hear how the work shifted from execution to bigger thinking, and why growth at this stage demands more discernment, not more effort. LuAnn walks through: What replaces doing when you stop doing everything Why long-term alignment matters more than enthusiasm How LuAnn University evolved from great courses into a true business school for creatives Why speaking engagements, partnerships, and opportunities must earn their yes How responsibility expands when you’re accountable to communities, not just yourself The difference between visibility and values Why some of the hardest no’s look great on paper And how leadership without ego creates stronger outcomes for everyone involved This is also the season where decisions began running through a future lens. Five years. Ten years. Twenty years. Will this still matter? Will I still be proud of it? And what happens when I’m no longer here to run it? This episode is about the quiet shift from building something exciting to protecting something meaningful. From growth to guardianship. From proving to preserving. If you’ve ever felt the weight of success get heavier instead of lighter, this episode will help you understand why. And why that weight is not a problem to solve, but a responsibility to lead. In the next episode, LuAnn will share what came next. The structures. The systems. And the decisions that allowed the business to grow without losing its soul. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Today With LuAnn Nigara:

In Part Three of the A Well-Designed Business 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn moves the story forward into the phase almost no one prepares you for.

The moment when hustle stops being the solution.

Not because the work disappears.
But because the work changes.

By this point, the podcast no longer depended on LuAnn doing everything herself.
It depended on something else entirely.

Stewardship.

In this episode, LuAnn shares what happens when stepping out of the weeds doesn’t mean stepping away, but stepping into a different level of responsibility. A level she had lived through before while growing Window Works, and one she recognized just in time this time around.

You’ll hear how the work shifted from execution to bigger thinking, and why growth at this stage demands more discernment, not more effort.

LuAnn walks through:

  • What replaces doing when you stop doing everything
  • Why long-term alignment matters more than enthusiasm
  • How LuAnn University evolved from great courses into a true business school for creatives
  • Why speaking engagements, partnerships, and opportunities must earn their yes
  • How responsibility expands when you’re accountable to communities, not just yourself
  • The difference between visibility and values
  • Why some of the hardest no’s look great on paper
  • And how leadership without ego creates stronger outcomes for everyone involved

This is also the season where decisions began running through a future lens.
Five years. Ten years. Twenty years.

Will this still matter?
Will I still be proud of it?
And what happens when I’m no longer here to run it?

This episode is about the quiet shift from building something exciting to protecting something meaningful.

From growth to guardianship.
From proving to preserving.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of success get heavier instead of lighter, this episode will help you understand why.

And why that weight is not a problem to solve, but a responsibility to lead.

In the next episode, LuAnn will share what came next.
The structures.
The systems.
And the decisions that allowed the business to grow without losing its soul.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

]]> 1658 1163: BEST OF SHOW: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets Today with Sarah Magness Welcome to today’s episode! We’re really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a ‘baby designer’ and launched right into the luxury market. Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the “New Heights” program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah’s very straightforward and clear advice. Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island. Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful “Next Wave” designer and she’s also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business. The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience. The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do. Sarah’s recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school. New York has a really supportive and talented design community. Budget is always an issue with clients. How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients. How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot. The importance of having really clear communication with your clients. It is often the clients’ choices that cause a project to go over budget. Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it. How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items. When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client. The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects. Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she’s involved with. Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The Town Home, about a seven-story 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71 Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter. Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Sarah Magness Welcome to today’s episode! We’re really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a ‘baby designer’ and launched right into the luxury market. Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the “New Heights” program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah’s very straightforward and clear advice. Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island. Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful “Next Wave” designer and she’s also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business. The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience. The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do. Sarah’s recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school. New York has a really supportive and talented design community. Budget is always an issue with clients. How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients. How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot. The importance of having really clear communication with your clients. It is often the clients’ choices that cause a project to go over budget. Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it. How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items. When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client. The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects. Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she’s involved with. Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The Town Home, about a seven-story 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71 Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter. Today with Sarah Magness

Welcome to today’s episode! We’re really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a ‘baby designer’ and launched right into the luxury market.

Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the “New Heights” program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah’s very straightforward and clear advice.

Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island.

Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful “Next Wave” designer and she’s also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more.

  • Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business.
  • The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience.
  • The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do.
  • Sarah’s recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school.
  • New York has a really supportive and talented design community.
  • Budget is always an issue with clients.
  • How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients.
  • How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot.
  • The importance of having really clear communication with your clients.
  • It is often the clients’ choices that cause a project to go over budget.
  • Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it.
  • How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items.
  • When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client.
  • The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects.
  • Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she’s involved with.
  • Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The
  • Town Home, about a seven-story
  • 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71

Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter

Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter.

]]> 4057 1162: WWLD: When Consistency Became a Responsibility Today With LuAnn Nigara: In Part Two of the A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn picks up where the story left off last week. The decision to start the podcast had been made.The show had launched.And then something else happened. It started working. In this episode, LuAnn shares what it actually looks like when consistency turns into responsibility, and when momentum begins to apply real pressure. Not the kind of pressure that comes from chaos or hustle, but the kind that forces you to grow up as a business owner. You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes truth about: Carrying fixed commitments alongside unpredictable work Why “hard” doesn’t automatically mean “wrong” The difference between being busy and being purposeful When standards stop being optional and start protecting trust Why boundaries must come before systems And what changes when your work begins to carry weight beyond you This is the unglamorous middle. The part most people don’t talk about. And the part where many businesses quietly break. If you’ve ever felt the pressure of growth and wondered if you’re doing it right, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and a steadier way forward. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Fri, 30 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Birthday Series Part 2 Today With LuAnn Nigara: In Part Two of the A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn picks up where the story left off last week. The decision to start the podcast had been made.The show had launched.And then something else happened. It started working. In this episode, LuAnn shares what it actually looks like when consistency turns into responsibility, and when momentum begins to apply real pressure. Not the kind of pressure that comes from chaos or hustle, but the kind that forces you to grow up as a business owner. You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes truth about: Carrying fixed commitments alongside unpredictable work Why “hard” doesn’t automatically mean “wrong” The difference between being busy and being purposeful When standards stop being optional and start protecting trust Why boundaries must come before systems And what changes when your work begins to carry weight beyond you This is the unglamorous middle. The part most people don’t talk about. And the part where many businesses quietly break. If you’ve ever felt the pressure of growth and wondered if you’re doing it right, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and a steadier way forward. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Today With LuAnn Nigara:

In Part Two of the A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Birthday Series, LuAnn picks up where the story left off last week.

The decision to start the podcast had been made.The show had launched.And then something else happened.

It started working.

In this episode, LuAnn shares what it actually looks like when consistency turns into responsibility, and when momentum begins to apply real pressure. Not the kind of pressure that comes from chaos or hustle, but the kind that forces you to grow up as a business owner.


You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes truth about:

  • Carrying fixed commitments alongside unpredictable work

  • Why “hard” doesn’t automatically mean “wrong”

  • The difference between being busy and being purposeful

  • When standards stop being optional and start protecting trust

  • Why boundaries must come before systems

  • And what changes when your work begins to carry weight beyond you

This is the unglamorous middle. The part most people don’t talk about. And the part where many businesses quietly break.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure of growth and wondered if you’re doing it right, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and a steadier way forward.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

]]> 3431 1161: BEST OF SHOW: Kae Whitaker : Get New Clients with the Right Email Sequence Today with Kae Whitaker Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences… It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing. Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?  Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae’s highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business. Show highlights: Kae explains what a Sales Funnel Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers. The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing. Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing. Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address. You’re really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they’re interested. Why video works so well, as an opt-in. What to do, right after getting your first opt-in. How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails. The whole point behind Email Marketing. What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include. The right time to schedule a chat with someone. Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling) Not stopping after the first ‘no’ can really set you apart from other Designers. If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well! Some alternative ideas, if you don’t want to appear on camera. All about what’s to be expected from Kae’s soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast. The importance of spending the time to learn something new. Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing. Kae's website: https://kaewhitaker.com Tue, 27 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Kae Whitaker Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences… It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing. Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?  Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae’s highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business. Show highlights: Kae explains what a Sales Funnel Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers. The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing. Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing. Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address. You’re really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they’re interested. Why video works so well, as an opt-in. What to do, right after getting your first opt-in. How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails. The whole point behind Email Marketing. What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include. The right time to schedule a chat with someone. Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling) Not stopping after the first ‘no’ can really set you apart from other Designers. If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well! Some alternative ideas, if you don’t want to appear on camera. All about what’s to be expected from Kae’s soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast. The importance of spending the time to learn something new. Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing. Kae's website: https://kaewhitaker.com Today with Kae Whitaker

Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences… It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing.

Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?

 Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae’s highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business.

Show highlights:

  • Kae explains what a Sales Funnel
  • Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers.
  • The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing.
  • Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing.
  • Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address.
  • You’re really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they’re interested.
  • Why video works so well, as an opt-in.
  • What to do, right after getting your first opt-in.
  • How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails.
  • The whole point behind Email Marketing.
  • What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include.
  • The right time to schedule a chat with someone.
  • Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling)
  • Not stopping after the first ‘no’ can really set you apart from other Designers.
  • If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well!
  • Some alternative ideas, if you don’t want to appear on camera.
  • All about what’s to be expected from Kae’s soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast.
  • The importance of spending the time to learn something new.
  • Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing.


Kae's website:

https://kaewhitaker.com

]]> 3214 1160: WWLD: Before the Podcast, The Decision No One Saw Today With LuAnn Nigara: Ten years ago, A Well-Designed Business® didn’t exist. There were no downloads. No sponsors. No audience. There was just a decision. In this first episode of a four-part anniversary series, LuAnn takes you behind the scenes to the moment before the podcast, before the brand, before this became a business. She walks you through what her life and work actually looked like in 2015, running a successful, $2M business that depended almost entirely on two people. Herself and Vin. This episode is not about the launch. It’s about the choice that came before it. LuAnn shares the reality of being profitable but restless, successful but paying attention, and why the most important decisions in business are usually the ones no one applauds, likes, or even sees. If you’ve ever looked at someone else’s finished success and assumed the path was obvious or inevitable, this episode will reset that thinking. Because here’s the thing. Every business has a moment where everything changes. And it always starts with a decision. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A Well-Designed Business® 10-Year Birthday Series Part 1 Today With LuAnn Nigara: Ten years ago, A Well-Designed Business® didn’t exist. There were no downloads. No sponsors. No audience. There was just a decision. In this first episode of a four-part anniversary series, LuAnn takes you behind the scenes to the moment before the podcast, before the brand, before this became a business. She walks you through what her life and work actually looked like in 2015, running a successful, $2M business that depended almost entirely on two people. Herself and Vin. This episode is not about the launch. It’s about the choice that came before it. LuAnn shares the reality of being profitable but restless, successful but paying attention, and why the most important decisions in business are usually the ones no one applauds, likes, or even sees. If you’ve ever looked at someone else’s finished success and assumed the path was obvious or inevitable, this episode will reset that thinking. Because here’s the thing. Every business has a moment where everything changes. And it always starts with a decision. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Ten years ago, A Well-Designed Business® didn’t exist.
There were no downloads. No sponsors. No audience.

There was just a decision.

In this first episode of a four-part anniversary series, LuAnn takes you behind the scenes to the moment before the podcast, before the brand, before this became a business. She walks you through what her life and work actually looked like in 2015, running a successful, $2M business that depended almost entirely on two people. Herself and Vin.

This episode is not about the launch.
It’s about the choice that came before it.

LuAnn shares the reality of being profitable but restless, successful but paying attention, and why the most important decisions in business are usually the ones no one applauds, likes, or even sees.

If you’ve ever looked at someone else’s finished success and assumed the path was obvious or inevitable, this episode will reset that thinking.

Because here’s the thing.
Every business has a moment where everything changes.
And it always starts with a decision.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

]]> 2104 1159: Overheard: The CEO Mindset Every Interior Designer Has to Learn (Or Burn Out Trying) Today With Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey: In this Overheard episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with four powerhouse designers — Heather Peterson, Jillian Richey Echevarria, and Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson of Nest Interiors — to talk about what it really means to step into the CEO seat. Each of these women has worked with business coach Desi Creswell to move from creative chaos to confident leadership. Together, we dig into the mindset shifts that make it possible to run a business with clarity — letting go of control, delegating effectively, setting boundaries, and learning to trust your team. Whether you’re a solo designer trying to get out of overwhelm or leading a growing team, this episode is a masterclass in how to think like a CEO, and why that shift changes everything. More About Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey: Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson: Nest Interiors, co-founded by Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson, is a full-service interior design firm devoted to transforming vision into reality. With a focus on residential design, our expertise spans new construction, remodeling, consulting, and product installation. Guided by more than 20 years of combined experience, we craft timeless interiors that balance style and functionality. Each project is an expression of our clients’ unique story, brought to life through a refined mix of design influences—bold, sophisticated, and enduringly livable. Heather Peterson: Heather is the mix master and principal designer behind the layered interiors at Heather Peterson Design. Through a collaborative approach, HPD translates clients’ individual tastes and lifestyles into homes that are effortlessly stylish, functional, and truly personal to them. A Columbia University-trained curator and former design magazine photo editor, Heather uses her trained eye and sense of story to create balanced, thoughtful, and distinctive spaces. At Heather Peterson Design, the work encompasses a variety of styles which reflect a wide-ranging passion in interior design.  The team loves the challenge of blending all the things homeowners love, want, and value into a cohesive design. Jillian Richey: Jillian Richey Echevarria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Jillian Richey Design, a luxury interior design firm based in Hinsdale, Illinois, and Crown Point, Indiana. Known for her ability to create timeless, highly detailed homes, Jillian partners with clients, builders, and vendors to bring architectural visions to life—from custom cabinetry and millwork to full-scale furnishings and curated accessories. With nearly two decades of experience in the design industry, Jillian has grown her boutique studio into a thriving business, balancing high-end residential projects with a newly launched lifestyle venture: Jilly’s Boutique Café, a Parisian garden-inspired café and retail space that seamlessly merges her love of design, hospitality, and community. Jillian is passionate about the evolution of the designer’s role—from overextended creative to confident CEO. She shares candidly about the systems, leadership, and mindset shifts that allowed her to scale her business, raise her design fees, and empower her team. Guided by principles from Who Not How, 10x Is Easier Than 2x, and The Gap and the Gain, Jillian has embraced delegation, profitability, and sustainable growth while keeping her creative spirit at the center of her work. When she’s not leading design projects or building her café brand, Jillian is a wife, mom of two, and believer that design should be both beautiful and deeply livable. Other Shows Mentioned: Overheard Collection Desi Creswell Episodes AWDB #222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way AWDB #445: Tori Alexander: Her Production List Increases Efficiency and Profits Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey: In this Overheard episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with four powerhouse designers — Heather Peterson, Jillian Richey Echevarria, and Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson of Nest Interiors — to talk about what it really means to step into the CEO seat. Each of these women has worked with business coach Desi Creswell to move from creative chaos to confident leadership. Together, we dig into the mindset shifts that make it possible to run a business with clarity — letting go of control, delegating effectively, setting boundaries, and learning to trust your team. Whether you’re a solo designer trying to get out of overwhelm or leading a growing team, this episode is a masterclass in how to think like a CEO, and why that shift changes everything. More About Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey: Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson: Nest Interiors, co-founded by Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson, is a full-service interior design firm devoted to transforming vision into reality. With a focus on residential design, our expertise spans new construction, remodeling, consulting, and product installation. Guided by more than 20 years of combined experience, we craft timeless interiors that balance style and functionality. Each project is an expression of our clients’ unique story, brought to life through a refined mix of design influences—bold, sophisticated, and enduringly livable. Heather Peterson: Heather is the mix master and principal designer behind the layered interiors at Heather Peterson Design. Through a collaborative approach, HPD translates clients’ individual tastes and lifestyles into homes that are effortlessly stylish, functional, and truly personal to them. A Columbia University-trained curator and former design magazine photo editor, Heather uses her trained eye and sense of story to create balanced, thoughtful, and distinctive spaces. At Heather Peterson Design, the work encompasses a variety of styles which reflect a wide-ranging passion in interior design.  The team loves the challenge of blending all the things homeowners love, want, and value into a cohesive design. Jillian Richey: Jillian Richey Echevarria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Jillian Richey Design, a luxury interior design firm based in Hinsdale, Illinois, and Crown Point, Indiana. Known for her ability to create timeless, highly detailed homes, Jillian partners with clients, builders, and vendors to bring architectural visions to life—from custom cabinetry and millwork to full-scale furnishings and curated accessories. With nearly two decades of experience in the design industry, Jillian has grown her boutique studio into a thriving business, balancing high-end residential projects with a newly launched lifestyle venture: Jilly’s Boutique Café, a Parisian garden-inspired café and retail space that seamlessly merges her love of design, hospitality, and community. Jillian is passionate about the evolution of the designer’s role—from overextended creative to confident CEO. She shares candidly about the systems, leadership, and mindset shifts that allowed her to scale her business, raise her design fees, and empower her team. Guided by principles from Who Not How, 10x Is Easier Than 2x, and The Gap and the Gain, Jillian has embraced delegation, profitability, and sustainable growth while keeping her creative spirit at the center of her work. When she’s not leading design projects or building her café brand, Jillian is a wife, mom of two, and believer that design should be both beautiful and deeply livable. Other Shows Mentioned: Overheard Collection Desi Creswell Episodes AWDB #222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way AWDB #445: Tori Alexander: Her Production List Increases Efficiency and Profits Today With Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey:

In this Overheard episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with four powerhouse designers — Heather Peterson, Jillian Richey Echevarria, and Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson of Nest Interiors — to talk about what it really means to step into the CEO seat.

Each of these women has worked with business coach Desi Creswell to move from creative chaos to confident leadership. Together, we dig into the mindset shifts that make it possible to run a business with clarity — letting go of control, delegating effectively, setting boundaries, and learning to trust your team.

Whether you’re a solo designer trying to get out of overwhelm or leading a growing team, this episode is a masterclass in how to think like a CEO, and why that shift changes everything.


More About Katy Cassaw, Kat Benson, Heather Peterson and Jillian Richey:

Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson:

Nest Interiors, co-founded by Katy Cassaw and Kat Benson, is a full-service interior design firm devoted to transforming vision into reality. With a focus on residential design, our expertise spans new construction, remodeling, consulting, and product installation. Guided by more than 20 years of combined experience, we craft timeless interiors that balance style and functionality. Each project is an expression of our clients’ unique story, brought to life through a refined mix of design influences—bold, sophisticated, and enduringly livable.


Heather Peterson:

Heather is the mix master and principal designer behind the layered interiors at Heather Peterson Design. Through a collaborative approach, HPD translates clients’ individual tastes and lifestyles into homes that are effortlessly stylish, functional, and truly personal to them. A Columbia University-trained curator and former design magazine photo editor, Heather uses her trained eye and sense of story to create balanced, thoughtful, and distinctive spaces. At Heather Peterson Design, the work encompasses a variety of styles which reflect a wide-ranging passion in interior design.  The team loves the challenge of blending all the things homeowners love, want, and value into a cohesive design.


Jillian Richey:

Jillian Richey Echevarria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Jillian Richey Design, a luxury interior design firm based in Hinsdale, Illinois, and Crown Point, Indiana. Known for her ability to create timeless, highly detailed homes, Jillian partners with clients, builders, and vendors to bring architectural visions to life—from custom cabinetry and millwork to full-scale furnishings and curated accessories.


With nearly two decades of experience in the design industry, Jillian has grown her boutique studio into a thriving business, balancing high-end residential projects with a newly launched lifestyle venture: Jilly’s Boutique Café, a Parisian garden-inspired café and retail space that seamlessly merges her love of design, hospitality, and community.


Jillian is passionate about the evolution of the designer’s role—from overextended creative to confident CEO. She shares candidly about the systems, leadership, and mindset shifts that allowed her to scale her business, raise her design fees, and empower her team. Guided by principles from Who Not How, 10x Is Easier Than 2x, and The Gap and the Gain, Jillian has embraced delegation, profitability, and sustainable growth while keeping her creative spirit at the center of her work.


When she’s not leading design projects or building her café brand, Jillian is a wife, mom of two, and believer that design should be both beautiful and deeply livable.


Other Shows Mentioned:

Overheard Collection

Desi Creswell Episodes

AWDB #222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way

AWDB #445: Tori Alexander: Her Production List Increases Efficiency and Profits

]]> 5336 1158: BEST OF SHOW: Vanessa DeLeon: Triple D: Drive- Dedication- Discipline Today with Vanessa DeLeon Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences. Vanessa shares with us: The triple “D’s” What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20 When does the momentum pick up? Dreams do come true Are vision boards a yes or a no? Entitlement…I don’t think so! Vacation? What’s that? Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Vanessa DeLeon Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences. Vanessa shares with us: The triple “D’s” What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20 When does the momentum pick up? Dreams do come true Are vision boards a yes or a no? Entitlement…I don’t think so! Vacation? What’s that? Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Today with Vanessa DeLeon

Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences.

Vanessa shares with us:

  • The triple “D’s”
  • What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20
  • When does the momentum pick up?
  • Dreams do come true
  • Are vision boards a yes or a no?
  • Entitlement…I don’t think so!
  • Vacation? What’s that?


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠

⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

]]> 3347 1157: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Marketing to the Three Tiers of Luxury Clients and How to Attract Each One Today With Kate O’Hara: Today on A Well Designed Business, Kate O'Hara from O'Hara Interiors reveals her framework for positioning your design business to attract the clients you actually want: entry-level clients need you to be discoverable, mid-tier clients need you to be distinct, and elite clients need you to be discreet. Kate explains the reality that many designers appear to work with one type of client but actually serve different clients 80-90% of the time. She breaks down how each tier has completely different expectations, from entry-level clients who need education and reassurance to elite clients who want designer-driven solutions and white-glove service. The conversation covers where each client tier actually finds designers, the messaging that resonates with each group, and how to align your brand positioning with your business goals. If you're struggling to attract your ideal clients or wondering whether your current approach matches your target market, this episode provides the framework to audit and adjust your strategy. LuAnn Nigara and Kate O'Hara's Ah-Ha Moments “At an entry level, you need to be discoverable. At a mid-tier, you need to be distinct, and at an elite tier, you need to be discreet.” - Kate O’Hara "It's really getting clear on who you want to attract so that your messaging does align." - LuAnn Nigara More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Pinterest⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Houzz⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 1148 In Good company CEO Conversations with Kate O”Hara A Framework for Understanding Luxury Clients Episode 958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Episode 1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling Episode 1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press Episode 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Episode 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process Episode 878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet Inc. continues to expand with beautiful new showrooms designed to support the way you actually work. Recent openings include Birmingham, Charleston, Water Mill, New York, and Basking Ridge, New Jersey.  Each Kravet showroom features their innovative Workspace model, an interactive environment showcasing furniture, fabric, wallcovering, trim, and carpet samples, thoughtfully merchandised to mirror how designers source. By fabric type. By category. By color. By the way you think. And quick reminder, I’ll be giving a presentation at the Basking Ridge, New Jersey showroom on January 21st, 2026. If you’re local or can get there, I would love to see you in person. Mark your calendar and come say hello. Go to luannnigara.com/event to learn more and RSVP by January 16th Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate O’Hara: Today on A Well Designed Business, Kate O'Hara from O'Hara Interiors reveals her framework for positioning your design business to attract the clients you actually want: entry-level clients need you to be discoverable, mid-tier clients need you to be distinct, and elite clients need you to be discreet. Kate explains the reality that many designers appear to work with one type of client but actually serve different clients 80-90% of the time. She breaks down how each tier has completely different expectations, from entry-level clients who need education and reassurance to elite clients who want designer-driven solutions and white-glove service. The conversation covers where each client tier actually finds designers, the messaging that resonates with each group, and how to align your brand positioning with your business goals. If you're struggling to attract your ideal clients or wondering whether your current approach matches your target market, this episode provides the framework to audit and adjust your strategy. LuAnn Nigara and Kate O'Hara's Ah-Ha Moments “At an entry level, you need to be discoverable. At a mid-tier, you need to be distinct, and at an elite tier, you need to be discreet.” - Kate O’Hara "It's really getting clear on who you want to attract so that your messaging does align." - LuAnn Nigara More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Pinterest⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Houzz⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 1148 In Good company CEO Conversations with Kate O”Hara A Framework for Understanding Luxury Clients Episode 958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Episode 1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling Episode 1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press Episode 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Episode 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process Episode 878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet Inc. continues to expand with beautiful new showrooms designed to support the way you actually work. Recent openings include Birmingham, Charleston, Water Mill, New York, and Basking Ridge, New Jersey.  Each Kravet showroom features their innovative Workspace model, an interactive environment showcasing furniture, fabric, wallcovering, trim, and carpet samples, thoughtfully merchandised to mirror how designers source. By fabric type. By category. By color. By the way you think. And quick reminder, I’ll be giving a presentation at the Basking Ridge, New Jersey showroom on January 21st, 2026. If you’re local or can get there, I would love to see you in person. Mark your calendar and come say hello. Go to luannnigara.com/event to learn more and RSVP by January 16th Today With Kate O’Hara:

Today on A Well Designed Business, Kate O'Hara from O'Hara Interiors reveals her framework for positioning your design business to attract the clients you actually want: entry-level clients need you to be discoverable, mid-tier clients need you to be distinct, and elite clients need you to be discreet.

Kate explains the reality that many designers appear to work with one type of client but actually serve different clients 80-90% of the time. She breaks down how each tier has completely different expectations, from entry-level clients who need education and reassurance to elite clients who want designer-driven solutions and white-glove service.

The conversation covers where each client tier actually finds designers, the messaging that resonates with each group, and how to align your brand positioning with your business goals. If you're struggling to attract your ideal clients or wondering whether your current approach matches your target market, this episode provides the framework to audit and adjust your strategy.


LuAnn Nigara and Kate O'Hara's Ah-Ha Moments

“At an entry level, you need to be discoverable. At a mid-tier, you need to be distinct, and at an elite tier, you need to be discreet.” - Kate O’Hara

"It's really getting clear on who you want to attract so that your messaging does align." - LuAnn Nigara


More About Kate O’Hara

Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines.


Connect with Kate O’Hara

⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

⁠⁠Pinterest⁠⁠

⁠⁠Houzz⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠

⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 1148 In Good company CEO Conversations with Kate O”Hara A Framework for Understanding Luxury Clients

Episode 958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

Episode 1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling

Episode 1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press

Episode 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

Episode 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

Episode 878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process


A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet Inc. continues to expand with beautiful new showrooms designed to support the way you actually work.

Recent openings include Birmingham, Charleston, Water Mill, New York, and Basking Ridge, New Jersey. 

Each Kravet showroom features their innovative Workspace model, an interactive environment showcasing furniture, fabric, wallcovering, trim, and carpet samples, thoughtfully merchandised to mirror how designers source. By fabric type. By category. By color. By the way you think.

And quick reminder, I’ll be giving a presentation at the Basking Ridge, New Jersey showroom on January 21st, 2026. If you’re local or can get there, I would love to see you in person. Mark your calendar and come say hello. Go to luannnigara.com/event to learn more and RSVP by January 16th

]]> 4384 1156: BEST OF SHOW: Susan Brunstrum: Practical Advice for Project Management Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville and a branch office in Chicago. She and her team work with a broad-based clientele of entrepreneurs, corporate executives and professionals.   Susan is an experienced speaker, whether on interior design issues or the business of design. She is a popular speaker on design at libraries on the North Shore of Chicago. Susan has been featured on NBC/LXTV’s  “George to the Rescue” and  “Open House,” and she appeared on CLTV’s “Bring It Home” program. Her work has been published in numerous national and local magazines and newspapers, including Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers, Trends Kitchens, Trends Bathrooms, Color Made Easy, Crain’s Chicago Business  and Chicago Sun-Times’ magazine, Splash.   Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business. Show Notes: The two project fee basis systems  The six phases of projects How do you utilize the project fee? If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should! Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them What are the red flags when assessing a client? The difference between advertising and public relations Be patient!   Resources: https://www.sweetpeas-inspired.com – Sweet Peas Design https://www.studiowebware.com  https://www.quickbooks.com Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville and a branch office in Chicago. She and her team work with a broad-based clientele of entrepreneurs, corporate executives and professionals.   Susan is an experienced speaker, whether on interior design issues or the business of design. She is a popular speaker on design at libraries on the North Shore of Chicago. Susan has been featured on NBC/LXTV’s  “George to the Rescue” and  “Open House,” and she appeared on CLTV’s “Bring It Home” program. Her work has been published in numerous national and local magazines and newspapers, including Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers, Trends Kitchens, Trends Bathrooms, Color Made Easy, Crain’s Chicago Business  and Chicago Sun-Times’ magazine, Splash.   Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business. Show Notes: The two project fee basis systems  The six phases of projects How do you utilize the project fee? If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should! Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them What are the red flags when assessing a client? The difference between advertising and public relations Be patient!   Resources: https://www.sweetpeas-inspired.com – Sweet Peas Design https://www.studiowebware.com  https://www.quickbooks.com Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville and a branch office in Chicago. She and her team work with a broad-based clientele of entrepreneurs, corporate executives and professionals.   Susan is an experienced speaker, whether on interior design issues or the business of design. She is a popular speaker on design at libraries on the North Shore of Chicago. Susan has been featured on NBC/LXTV’s  “George to the Rescue” and  “Open House,” and she appeared on CLTV’s “Bring It Home” program. Her work has been published in numerous national and local magazines and newspapers, including Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers, Trends Kitchens, Trends Bathrooms, Color Made Easy, Crain’s Chicago Business  and Chicago Sun-Times’ magazine, Splash.  

Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business.

Show Notes:

  • The two project fee basis systems 
  • The six phases of projects
  • How do you utilize the project fee?
  • If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should!
  • Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them
  • What are the red flags when assessing a client?
  • The difference between advertising and public relations
  • Be patient!

 

Resources:

https://www.sweetpeas-inspired.com – Sweet Peas Design

https://www.studiowebware.com 

https://www.quickbooks.com

]]> 3876 1155: Deanna Metz: Sunbrella for Interior Designers: Performance, Flexibility, and Trade Access Today With Deanna Metz: In today’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Deanna Metz from Sunbrella for a sponsored conversation focused on how interior designers can expand their options without compromising standards, performance, or their brand reputation. Sunbrella is a name many designers already trust, but this episode goes deeper into what Sunbrella is offering designers today. We talk about their interior product lines, including stock drapery, performance throws, and fabric by the yard, and where these offerings can strategically fit into a design business when full custom isn’t the right solution for every space. This is especially relevant for projects involving busy families, nurseries, guest bedrooms, secondary spaces, and inside-outside living areas where durability, cleanability, and long-term performance matter just as much as aesthetics. These are not trend-driven products. They are intentionally curated, best-selling fabrics backed by Sunbrella’s decades-long commitment to testing, consistency, and reliability. If you’re an interior designer looking to add flexible, performance-driven solutions to your design toolkit, this episode will help you understand why opening a Sunbrella designer trade account is worth your time. Trade accounts give designers access to trusted performance fabrics, finished products, and resources that can support both your creative work and your business decisions. To explore Sunbrella’s interior offerings and open your designer trade account, visit Sunbrella.com. More About Deanna Metz: Deanna Metz is the Director of Product Management at Sunbrella, the flagship brand of Glen Raven, where she leads go-to-market execution across a diverse portfolio of performance products. With over 15 years in the home and textile design industry, she’s built a career at the intersection of design, business, and product storytelling, translating creative vision into commercially successful products. Before joining Sunbrella, Deanna held leadership roles in design and merchandising, guiding teams through trend research, global sourcing, and product development. She’s passionate about connecting design thinking with business strategy and elevating everyday textiles into meaningful, functional products. Connect with Sunbrella: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #212 A Window of Opportunity with Sunbrella’s New Custom Collection Tue, 06 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Deanna Metz: In today’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Deanna Metz from Sunbrella for a sponsored conversation focused on how interior designers can expand their options without compromising standards, performance, or their brand reputation. Sunbrella is a name many designers already trust, but this episode goes deeper into what Sunbrella is offering designers today. We talk about their interior product lines, including stock drapery, performance throws, and fabric by the yard, and where these offerings can strategically fit into a design business when full custom isn’t the right solution for every space. This is especially relevant for projects involving busy families, nurseries, guest bedrooms, secondary spaces, and inside-outside living areas where durability, cleanability, and long-term performance matter just as much as aesthetics. These are not trend-driven products. They are intentionally curated, best-selling fabrics backed by Sunbrella’s decades-long commitment to testing, consistency, and reliability. If you’re an interior designer looking to add flexible, performance-driven solutions to your design toolkit, this episode will help you understand why opening a Sunbrella designer trade account is worth your time. Trade accounts give designers access to trusted performance fabrics, finished products, and resources that can support both your creative work and your business decisions. To explore Sunbrella’s interior offerings and open your designer trade account, visit Sunbrella.com. More About Deanna Metz: Deanna Metz is the Director of Product Management at Sunbrella, the flagship brand of Glen Raven, where she leads go-to-market execution across a diverse portfolio of performance products. With over 15 years in the home and textile design industry, she’s built a career at the intersection of design, business, and product storytelling, translating creative vision into commercially successful products. Before joining Sunbrella, Deanna held leadership roles in design and merchandising, guiding teams through trend research, global sourcing, and product development. She’s passionate about connecting design thinking with business strategy and elevating everyday textiles into meaningful, functional products. Connect with Sunbrella: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #212 A Window of Opportunity with Sunbrella’s New Custom Collection Today With Deanna Metz:

In today’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Deanna Metz from Sunbrella for a sponsored conversation focused on how interior designers can expand their options without compromising standards, performance, or their brand reputation.

Sunbrella is a name many designers already trust, but this episode goes deeper into what Sunbrella is offering designers today. We talk about their interior product lines, including stock drapery, performance throws, and fabric by the yard, and where these offerings can strategically fit into a design business when full custom isn’t the right solution for every space.

This is especially relevant for projects involving busy families, nurseries, guest bedrooms, secondary spaces, and inside-outside living areas where durability, cleanability, and long-term performance matter just as much as aesthetics. These are not trend-driven products. They are intentionally curated, best-selling fabrics backed by Sunbrella’s decades-long commitment to testing, consistency, and reliability.

If you’re an interior designer looking to add flexible, performance-driven solutions to your design toolkit, this episode will help you understand why opening a Sunbrella designer trade account is worth your time. Trade accounts give designers access to trusted performance fabrics, finished products, and resources that can support both your creative work and your business decisions.

To explore Sunbrella’s interior offerings and open your designer trade account, visit Sunbrella.com.

More About Deanna Metz:

Deanna Metz is the Director of Product Management at Sunbrella, the flagship brand of Glen Raven, where she leads go-to-market execution across a diverse portfolio of performance products. With over 15 years in the home and textile design industry, she’s built a career at the intersection of design, business, and product storytelling, translating creative vision into commercially successful products.

Before joining Sunbrella, Deanna held leadership roles in design and merchandising, guiding teams through trend research, global sourcing, and product development. She’s passionate about connecting design thinking with business strategy and elevating everyday textiles into meaningful, functional products.

Connect with Sunbrella:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #212 A Window of Opportunity with Sunbrella’s New Custom Collection

]]> 2292 1154: WWLD: Leading the Business You’re Building Now Today With LuAnn Nigara: As one year closes and another begins, LuAnn steps back to talk about what leadership really looks like right now. Not resolutions. Not hustle. Not doing more. In this episode, LuAnn walks you through the CEO-level decisions that matter most when the business starts to shift, whether that shift feels fast, slow, or uncertain. She unpacks why direction matters more than speed, why better filters beat more effort, why consistency outperforms intensity, and how emotional regulation is one of the most important leadership skills you’ll ever develop. Using real-world examples from decades of running Window Works, leading Exciting Windows, coaching Chairman of the Board members, and conversations with business owners across the industry, LuAnn offers grounded perspective on how to lead with steadiness, confidence, and standards. If you’re listening during a break, on a walk, or while resetting for the year ahead, this episode will help you step back into your business with intention and authority. This is not about becoming someone new.It’s about leading the business you’re already building. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: As one year closes and another begins, LuAnn steps back to talk about what leadership really looks like right now. Not resolutions. Not hustle. Not doing more. In this episode, LuAnn walks you through the CEO-level decisions that matter most when the business starts to shift, whether that shift feels fast, slow, or uncertain. She unpacks why direction matters more than speed, why better filters beat more effort, why consistency outperforms intensity, and how emotional regulation is one of the most important leadership skills you’ll ever develop. Using real-world examples from decades of running Window Works, leading Exciting Windows, coaching Chairman of the Board members, and conversations with business owners across the industry, LuAnn offers grounded perspective on how to lead with steadiness, confidence, and standards. If you’re listening during a break, on a walk, or while resetting for the year ahead, this episode will help you step back into your business with intention and authority. This is not about becoming someone new.It’s about leading the business you’re already building. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Today With LuAnn Nigara:

As one year closes and another begins, LuAnn steps back to talk about what leadership really looks like right now. Not resolutions. Not hustle. Not doing more.

In this episode, LuAnn walks you through the CEO-level decisions that matter most when the business starts to shift, whether that shift feels fast, slow, or uncertain. She unpacks why direction matters more than speed, why better filters beat more effort, why consistency outperforms intensity, and how emotional regulation is one of the most important leadership skills you’ll ever develop.

Using real-world examples from decades of running Window Works, leading Exciting Windows, coaching Chairman of the Board members, and conversations with business owners across the industry, LuAnn offers grounded perspective on how to lead with steadiness, confidence, and standards.

If you’re listening during a break, on a walk, or while resetting for the year ahead, this episode will help you step back into your business with intention and authority.

This is not about becoming someone new.It’s about leading the business you’re already building.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠

⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

]]> 1518 1153: WWLD: Stop Making Your Business Harder Than It Needs to Be Today With LuAnn Nigara: As the year winds down and routines slow, LuAnn takes this quiet moment to speak directly to you, no guest, no interview, just perspective. In this episode, LuAnn walks through ten patterns she sees business owners repeat over and over again that quietly make their businesses harder than they need to be. These aren’t mistakes. They’re habits, defaults, and decisions that once made sense, but may no longer serve you. Drawing from decades of experience, thousands of conversations, her work at Exciting Windows, Chairman of the Board, LuAnn University, and her role as President of WCAA, LuAnn offers a grounded, CEO-level look at what to stop doing if you want a business that feels stronger, healthier, and more sustainable. This episode is not about goals or resolutions. It’s about perspective. If you have a quiet moment during the holiday break, on a walk, in the car, or with a cup of coffee, this is a thoughtful, focused listen designed to help you pause, reflect, and step back into your role as CEO. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: As the year winds down and routines slow, LuAnn takes this quiet moment to speak directly to you, no guest, no interview, just perspective. In this episode, LuAnn walks through ten patterns she sees business owners repeat over and over again that quietly make their businesses harder than they need to be. These aren’t mistakes. They’re habits, defaults, and decisions that once made sense, but may no longer serve you. Drawing from decades of experience, thousands of conversations, her work at Exciting Windows, Chairman of the Board, LuAnn University, and her role as President of WCAA, LuAnn offers a grounded, CEO-level look at what to stop doing if you want a business that feels stronger, healthier, and more sustainable. This episode is not about goals or resolutions. It’s about perspective. If you have a quiet moment during the holiday break, on a walk, in the car, or with a cup of coffee, this is a thoughtful, focused listen designed to help you pause, reflect, and step back into your role as CEO. Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Today With LuAnn Nigara:

As the year winds down and routines slow, LuAnn takes this quiet moment to speak directly to you, no guest, no interview, just perspective.

In this episode, LuAnn walks through ten patterns she sees business owners repeat over and over again that quietly make their businesses harder than they need to be. These aren’t mistakes. They’re habits, defaults, and decisions that once made sense, but may no longer serve you.

Drawing from decades of experience, thousands of conversations, her work at Exciting Windows, Chairman of the Board, LuAnn University, and her role as President of WCAA, LuAnn offers a grounded, CEO-level look at what to stop doing if you want a business that feels stronger, healthier, and more sustainable.

This episode is not about goals or resolutions. It’s about perspective.

If you have a quiet moment during the holiday break, on a walk, in the car, or with a cup of coffee, this is a thoughtful, focused listen designed to help you pause, reflect, and step back into your role as CEO.


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

]]> 1472 1152: LUANN FEATURED: Part 2- LuAnn Joins John McClain on The McClain Method Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain: Today I am excited to share Part Two of my conversation on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method. If Part One was about the journey, this episode is about the work. John and I dig into what actually makes a design business sustainable: mindset, pricing, branding, and the confidence to stand fully in your value. We talk candidly about what it means to be unapologetically yourself as a business owner, why professional guidance matters, and how clarity changes everything from your pricing to your client relationships. We also address the real-world challenges designers face every day: client objections, pricing conversations, markup debates, budget boundaries, and how to communicate value without overexplaining or apologizing. This is about learning to lead the process instead of reacting to it. If you’ve ever struggled with pricing confidence, client pushback, or feeling like you need to justify your expertise, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are and help you see what’s possible when your systems, mindset, and messaging are aligned. In this episode, we cover: Branding yourself with confidence and credibility The mindset shifts required for pricing growth Why transparency and communication matter in pricing Establishing systems, processes, and boundaries How to clearly communicate value to the right clients This episode is packed with practical advice and perspective to help you elevate not just your business, but how you show up inside it. More About John McClain: ⁠The McClain Method Podcast⁠ ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Fri, 26 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain: Today I am excited to share Part Two of my conversation on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method. If Part One was about the journey, this episode is about the work. John and I dig into what actually makes a design business sustainable: mindset, pricing, branding, and the confidence to stand fully in your value. We talk candidly about what it means to be unapologetically yourself as a business owner, why professional guidance matters, and how clarity changes everything from your pricing to your client relationships. We also address the real-world challenges designers face every day: client objections, pricing conversations, markup debates, budget boundaries, and how to communicate value without overexplaining or apologizing. This is about learning to lead the process instead of reacting to it. If you’ve ever struggled with pricing confidence, client pushback, or feeling like you need to justify your expertise, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are and help you see what’s possible when your systems, mindset, and messaging are aligned. In this episode, we cover: Branding yourself with confidence and credibility The mindset shifts required for pricing growth Why transparency and communication matter in pricing Establishing systems, processes, and boundaries How to clearly communicate value to the right clients This episode is packed with practical advice and perspective to help you elevate not just your business, but how you show up inside it. More About John McClain: ⁠The McClain Method Podcast⁠ ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain:

Today I am excited to share Part Two of my conversation on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method.

If Part One was about the journey, this episode is about the work.

John and I dig into what actually makes a design business sustainable: mindset, pricing, branding, and the confidence to stand fully in your value. We talk candidly about what it means to be unapologetically yourself as a business owner, why professional guidance matters, and how clarity changes everything from your pricing to your client relationships.

We also address the real-world challenges designers face every day: client objections, pricing conversations, markup debates, budget boundaries, and how to communicate value without overexplaining or apologizing. This is about learning to lead the process instead of reacting to it.

If you’ve ever struggled with pricing confidence, client pushback, or feeling like you need to justify your expertise, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are and help you see what’s possible when your systems, mindset, and messaging are aligned.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Branding yourself with confidence and credibility

  • The mindset shifts required for pricing growth

  • Why transparency and communication matter in pricing

  • Establishing systems, processes, and boundaries

  • How to clearly communicate value to the right clients

This episode is packed with practical advice and perspective to help you elevate not just your business, but how you show up inside it.


More About John McClain:

⁠The McClain Method Podcast⁠

⁠Website⁠

⁠Instagram⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠

]]> 3112 1151: LUANN FEATURED: LuAnn Joins John McClain on The McClain Method Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain: Today’s episode is a little different, and one I’m really excited to share with you. This is a special "LuAnn Featured" episode where I share with you my appearance on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method. The conversation was thoughtful, honest, and reflective enough that we knew it belonged here on A Well-Designed Business as well. In this conversation, I share the journey that began with helping my husband, Vinny, build Window Works and evolved into creating A Well-Designed Business and the education platform that grew from it. We talk about why I saw such a clear gap in business education for designers, what it actually took to launch and monetize a podcast before podcasting was considered a “strategy,” and why having a real business plan is not optional if you want longevity. We also get personal. I talk about the importance of protecting your health, the reality of patience and burnout, the role Vinny has played behind the scenes, and the lessons that only come from decades of building, pivoting, and staying committed to the long game. This episode is full of honest stories, practical perspective, and encouragement for designers who know they’re capable of more, but may be standing in their own way. And be sure to join us next week for Part Two, where we shift into more specific strategies for building a sustainable, profitable design business. Episode Highlights: How Window Works came to be and what it taught me about running a real business Recognizing the missing business education in the design industry The birth of A Well-Designed Business and what it took to invest in its growth Why self-care, support systems, and patience matter more than we like to admit Expanding a brand with intention, clarity, and vision More About John McClain: The McClain Method Podcast Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain: Today’s episode is a little different, and one I’m really excited to share with you. This is a special "LuAnn Featured" episode where I share with you my appearance on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method. The conversation was thoughtful, honest, and reflective enough that we knew it belonged here on A Well-Designed Business as well. In this conversation, I share the journey that began with helping my husband, Vinny, build Window Works and evolved into creating A Well-Designed Business and the education platform that grew from it. We talk about why I saw such a clear gap in business education for designers, what it actually took to launch and monetize a podcast before podcasting was considered a “strategy,” and why having a real business plan is not optional if you want longevity. We also get personal. I talk about the importance of protecting your health, the reality of patience and burnout, the role Vinny has played behind the scenes, and the lessons that only come from decades of building, pivoting, and staying committed to the long game. This episode is full of honest stories, practical perspective, and encouragement for designers who know they’re capable of more, but may be standing in their own way. And be sure to join us next week for Part Two, where we shift into more specific strategies for building a sustainable, profitable design business. Episode Highlights: How Window Works came to be and what it taught me about running a real business Recognizing the missing business education in the design industry The birth of A Well-Designed Business and what it took to invest in its growth Why self-care, support systems, and patience matter more than we like to admit Expanding a brand with intention, clarity, and vision More About John McClain: The McClain Method Podcast Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara on The McClain Method Podcast with John McClain:

Today’s episode is a little different, and one I’m really excited to share with you.


This is a special "LuAnn Featured" episode where I share with you my appearance on John McClain’s podcast, The McClain Method. The conversation was thoughtful, honest, and reflective enough that we knew it belonged here on A Well-Designed Business as well.


In this conversation, I share the journey that began with helping my husband, Vinny, build Window Works and evolved into creating A Well-Designed Business and the education platform that grew from it.


We talk about why I saw such a clear gap in business education for designers, what it actually took to launch and monetize a podcast before podcasting was considered a “strategy,” and why having a real business plan is not optional if you want longevity.


We also get personal.


I talk about the importance of protecting your health, the reality of patience and burnout, the role Vinny has played behind the scenes, and the lessons that only come from decades of building, pivoting, and staying committed to the long game.


This episode is full of honest stories, practical perspective, and encouragement for designers who know they’re capable of more, but may be standing in their own way.


And be sure to join us next week for Part Two, where we shift into more specific strategies for building a sustainable, profitable design business.


Episode Highlights:

  • How Window Works came to be and what it taught me about running a real business
  • Recognizing the missing business education in the design industry
  • The birth of A Well-Designed Business and what it took to invest in its growth
  • Why self-care, support systems, and patience matter more than we like to admit
  • Expanding a brand with intention, clarity, and vision


More About John McClain:

The McClain Method Podcast

Website

Instagram


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3787 1150: Emily Yeates: The Business Edit: The Backend That Builds Million-Dollar Design Firms Today With Emily Yeates: If you’ve ever found yourself whispering, “I love design but the business side is exhausting,” this episode is your wake-up call. Emily Yeates, founder of Urban Revival and creator of The Business Edit, joins LuAnn to pull back the curtain on how she built a thriving, efficient design firm and how she now teaches other designers to do the same. From contractor headaches and pricing pitfalls to intake calls and profitable proposals, Emily doesn’t teach theory. She hands you the system that actually works. Inside this conversation: – The real reason designers struggle with profitability (hint: it’s not your talent) – Why managing contractors is breaking your business and what to do instead – How to flip your intake calls, furniture sales, and vendor strategy into profit machines – Why The Business Edit is not a “market tour” and how it’s changing designers’ lives If you're ready to stop reacting and start running your firm like a business, hit play. The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas. Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at urbanrevivalphx.com More About Emily Yeates: Emily, the visionary behind Urban Revival, started her design firm over 15 years ago. Her passion for design ignited at a young age, growing up in a family of luxury real estate developers. With remarkable projects and record-breaking sales, Emily has been named by Luxe Magazine as one of the most promising designers across the country. Her talent has been featured in renowned publications such as Architectural Digest, Forbes International Properties, Domino, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Luxury Scottsdale, My Domaine, and more. Driven by a desire for mentorship, Emily has dedicated herself to helping designers overcome obstacles and accelerate their success. She possesses a unique ability to guide those who feel stagnant in their design businesses. Connect with Emily Yeates: Website Instagram The Business Edit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Learn about The Business Edit: UrbanrevivalphxLANDING business-edit-client-stories Book a complimentary call with Emily to review your business practices: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/businesseditinfo The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas. Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at⁠ urbanrevivalphx.com⁠ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Emily Yeates: If you’ve ever found yourself whispering, “I love design but the business side is exhausting,” this episode is your wake-up call. Emily Yeates, founder of Urban Revival and creator of The Business Edit, joins LuAnn to pull back the curtain on how she built a thriving, efficient design firm and how she now teaches other designers to do the same. From contractor headaches and pricing pitfalls to intake calls and profitable proposals, Emily doesn’t teach theory. She hands you the system that actually works. Inside this conversation: – The real reason designers struggle with profitability (hint: it’s not your talent) – Why managing contractors is breaking your business and what to do instead – How to flip your intake calls, furniture sales, and vendor strategy into profit machines – Why The Business Edit is not a “market tour” and how it’s changing designers’ lives If you're ready to stop reacting and start running your firm like a business, hit play. The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas. Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at urbanrevivalphx.com More About Emily Yeates: Emily, the visionary behind Urban Revival, started her design firm over 15 years ago. Her passion for design ignited at a young age, growing up in a family of luxury real estate developers. With remarkable projects and record-breaking sales, Emily has been named by Luxe Magazine as one of the most promising designers across the country. Her talent has been featured in renowned publications such as Architectural Digest, Forbes International Properties, Domino, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Luxury Scottsdale, My Domaine, and more. Driven by a desire for mentorship, Emily has dedicated herself to helping designers overcome obstacles and accelerate their success. She possesses a unique ability to guide those who feel stagnant in their design businesses. Connect with Emily Yeates: Website Instagram The Business Edit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Learn about The Business Edit: UrbanrevivalphxLANDING business-edit-client-stories Book a complimentary call with Emily to review your business practices: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/businesseditinfo The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas. Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at⁠ urbanrevivalphx.com⁠ Today With Emily Yeates:

If you’ve ever found yourself whispering, “I love design but the business side is exhausting,” this episode is your wake-up call.

Emily Yeates, founder of Urban Revival and creator of The Business Edit, joins LuAnn to pull back the curtain on how she built a thriving, efficient design firm and how she now teaches other designers to do the same. From contractor headaches and pricing pitfalls to intake calls and profitable proposals, Emily doesn’t teach theory. She hands you the system that actually works.

Inside this conversation: – The real reason designers struggle with profitability (hint: it’s not your talent) – Why managing contractors is breaking your business and what to do instead – How to flip your intake calls, furniture sales, and vendor strategy into profit machines – Why The Business Edit is not a “market tour” and how it’s changing designers’ lives

If you're ready to stop reacting and start running your firm like a business, hit play.

The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas.

Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at urbanrevivalphx.com


More About Emily Yeates:

Emily, the visionary behind Urban Revival, started her design firm over 15 years ago. Her passion for design ignited at a young age, growing up in a family of luxury real estate developers. With remarkable projects and record-breaking sales, Emily has been named by Luxe Magazine as one of the most promising designers across the country. Her talent has been featured in renowned publications such as Architectural Digest, Forbes International Properties, Domino, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Luxury Scottsdale, My Domaine, and more.


Driven by a desire for mentorship, Emily has dedicated herself to helping designers overcome obstacles and accelerate their success. She possesses a unique ability to guide those who feel stagnant in their design businesses.


Connect with Emily Yeates:

Website

Instagram

The Business Edit


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources Mentioned:

Learn about The Business Edit: UrbanrevivalphxLANDING business-edit-client-stories


Book a complimentary call with Emily to review your business practices: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/businesseditinfo


The Business Edit returns January 27–29, 2026 in Las Vegas.

Mention this episode for $1,000 off. Learn more at⁠ urbanrevivalphx.com⁠

]]> 4019 1149: BEST OF SHOW: Claudia Ricciardone: Her Journey from Hobby to Interior Design Business Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design. Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen. LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments: “When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone “In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” – LuAnn Nigara. “Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” – Claudia Ricciardone. “Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” – LuAnn Nigara “When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” – Claudia Ricciardone More about Claudia Ricciardone: Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine. Connect with Claudia Ricciardone: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #50 Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #58 Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees #752 PTF: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design. Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen. LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments: “When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone “In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” – LuAnn Nigara. “Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” – Claudia Ricciardone. “Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” – LuAnn Nigara “When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” – Claudia Ricciardone More about Claudia Ricciardone: Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine. Connect with Claudia Ricciardone: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #50 Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #58 Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees #752 PTF: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success Today with Claudia Ricciardone:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design.

Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen.

LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments:

“When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone

“In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” – LuAnn Nigara.

“Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” – Claudia Ricciardone.

“Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” – LuAnn Nigara

“When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” – Claudia Ricciardone

More about Claudia Ricciardone:

Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design. 

Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine.

Connect with Claudia Ricciardone:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#50 Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook

#58 Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees

#752 PTF: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success

]]> 3945 1148: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: A Framework for Understanding Luxury Interior Design Clients Today With Kate O’Hara: Have you ever had that experience where you’re working with a client on something and they just seem to resist what you’re saying…and you ask yourself, “Why won’t they just let me do what they’re paying me to do?” Maybe you have a difficult client. But more likely, the problem is that you don’t understand that particular client’s priorities or motivations. And that’s not a reflection on you, your client probably doesn’t understand this about themselves either.  Wouldn’t it be great if you had a framework for tapping into what your client really wants and needs? That’s exactly what my guest today, Kate O’Hara, has created.  Today, she breaks down three levels of clients, and more importantly, what matters most to these clients within six important criteria. More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Pinterest⁠ ⁠Houzz⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate O’Hara: Have you ever had that experience where you’re working with a client on something and they just seem to resist what you’re saying…and you ask yourself, “Why won’t they just let me do what they’re paying me to do?” Maybe you have a difficult client. But more likely, the problem is that you don’t understand that particular client’s priorities or motivations. And that’s not a reflection on you, your client probably doesn’t understand this about themselves either.  Wouldn’t it be great if you had a framework for tapping into what your client really wants and needs? That’s exactly what my guest today, Kate O’Hara, has created.  Today, she breaks down three levels of clients, and more importantly, what matters most to these clients within six important criteria. More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Pinterest⁠ ⁠Houzz⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Today With Kate O’Hara:

Have you ever had that experience where you’re working with a client on something and they just seem to resist what you’re saying…and you ask yourself, “Why won’t they just let me do what they’re paying me to do?”

Maybe you have a difficult client. But more likely, the problem is that you don’t understand that particular client’s priorities or motivations. And that’s not a reflection on you, your client probably doesn’t understand this about themselves either. 

Wouldn’t it be great if you had a framework for tapping into what your client really wants and needs? That’s exactly what my guest today, Kate O’Hara, has created. 

Today, she breaks down three levels of clients, and more importantly, what matters most to these clients within six important criteria.


More About Kate O’Hara

Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines.


Connect with Kate O’Hara

⁠Website⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠Pinterest⁠

⁠Houzz⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

]]> 3520 1147: BEST OF SHOW: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability.  Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more. LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus’ Ah-Ha Moments “The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You’re bringing that knowledge, and also that person that’s going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus  “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara  “There’s times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus “Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what’s happening.” – Carla Titus  “If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus More About Carla Titus: Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy. She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results. Connect with Carla Titus Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability.  Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more. LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus’ Ah-Ha Moments “The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You’re bringing that knowledge, and also that person that’s going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus  “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara  “There’s times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus “Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what’s happening.” – Carla Titus  “If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus More About Carla Titus: Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy. She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results. Connect with Carla Titus Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? Today With Carla Titus:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability. 

Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more.


LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus’ Ah-Ha Moments

“The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You’re bringing that knowledge, and also that person that’s going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus

 “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara 

“There’s times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus

“Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what’s happening.” – Carla Titus 

“If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus


More About Carla Titus:

Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background.

She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy.

She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results.


Connect with Carla Titus

Website

Instagram 

Facebook


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned:

#489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living

#719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s

#395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

#464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

#361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO?

]]> 3421 1146: Cyrus Loloi: A Modern Take on Trade Furnishings for Interior Designers Today With Cyrus Loloi: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You likely know the Loloi name—they are a powerhouse in our industry. But on today’s sponsored show, I am excited to chat with Cyrus Loloi about the sister brand, Joon Loloi.  Joon Loloi maintains many of Loloi’s values (including a commitment to quality, intention, and integrity). But it differs in many ways—not only does it offer a full range of home furnishings, but it is not exclusive to the trade. That’s an intentional decision—Cyrus and his brother Stephen saw a shift in how designers are sourcing and decided to create a brand that answers the need for a seamless digital shopping experience. That paved the way for Joon Loloi.  Today, he shares the story of the newer brand, how he maintains the family name’s trust and reputation, and how Joon Loloi is meeting modern needs for interior designers.  More About Cyrus Loloi: Cyrus Loloi is an experienced marketing and business leader specializing in brand strategy, e-commerce growth, and organizational leadership. He plays a central role in shaping the strategic direction of Loloi and Joon Loloi, overseeing key initiatives in performance marketing, creative operations, customer experience, and cross-team collaboration Ah Ha Moments with Cyrus Loloi: "We just felt like there's an opportunity to speak to the trade in more modern, sort of novel ways that Loloi is not currently positioned to do." –Cyrus Loloi "Every single product has to be mutually exclusive from Loloi. Number one, there's no reason to just launch something that's entirely redundant. And number two, we didn't want to sort of sell from under the retailers and designers that have supported Loloi all these years." –Cyrus Loloi "You’re not outsiders coming from tech and trying to figure out how to sell furniture and rugs to you to make money. You’re insiders who have observed that there's another lane inside here." –LuAnn Nigara "I believe one of the biggest mistakes in the industry is assuming that all 80,000 or so designers in the United States shop the same way, think the same way, business model is set up the same way." –Cyrus Loloi Connect with Loloi: Website Instagram  Tik Tok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Tue, 02 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Cyrus Loloi: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You likely know the Loloi name—they are a powerhouse in our industry. But on today’s sponsored show, I am excited to chat with Cyrus Loloi about the sister brand, Joon Loloi.  Joon Loloi maintains many of Loloi’s values (including a commitment to quality, intention, and integrity). But it differs in many ways—not only does it offer a full range of home furnishings, but it is not exclusive to the trade. That’s an intentional decision—Cyrus and his brother Stephen saw a shift in how designers are sourcing and decided to create a brand that answers the need for a seamless digital shopping experience. That paved the way for Joon Loloi.  Today, he shares the story of the newer brand, how he maintains the family name’s trust and reputation, and how Joon Loloi is meeting modern needs for interior designers.  More About Cyrus Loloi: Cyrus Loloi is an experienced marketing and business leader specializing in brand strategy, e-commerce growth, and organizational leadership. He plays a central role in shaping the strategic direction of Loloi and Joon Loloi, overseeing key initiatives in performance marketing, creative operations, customer experience, and cross-team collaboration Ah Ha Moments with Cyrus Loloi: "We just felt like there's an opportunity to speak to the trade in more modern, sort of novel ways that Loloi is not currently positioned to do." –Cyrus Loloi "Every single product has to be mutually exclusive from Loloi. Number one, there's no reason to just launch something that's entirely redundant. And number two, we didn't want to sort of sell from under the retailers and designers that have supported Loloi all these years." –Cyrus Loloi "You’re not outsiders coming from tech and trying to figure out how to sell furniture and rugs to you to make money. You’re insiders who have observed that there's another lane inside here." –LuAnn Nigara "I believe one of the biggest mistakes in the industry is assuming that all 80,000 or so designers in the United States shop the same way, think the same way, business model is set up the same way." –Cyrus Loloi Connect with Loloi: Website Instagram  Tik Tok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Today With Cyrus Loloi:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You likely know the Loloi name—they are a powerhouse in our industry. But on today’s sponsored show, I am excited to chat with Cyrus Loloi about the sister brand, Joon Loloi. 

Joon Loloi maintains many of Loloi’s values (including a commitment to quality, intention, and integrity). But it differs in many ways—not only does it offer a full range of home furnishings, but it is not exclusive to the trade. That’s an intentional decision—Cyrus and his brother Stephen saw a shift in how designers are sourcing and decided to create a brand that answers the need for a seamless digital shopping experience. That paved the way for Joon Loloi. 

Today, he shares the story of the newer brand, how he maintains the family name’s trust and reputation, and how Joon Loloi is meeting modern needs for interior designers. 


More About Cyrus Loloi:

Cyrus Loloi is an experienced marketing and business leader specializing in brand strategy, e-commerce growth, and organizational leadership. He plays a central role in shaping the strategic direction of Loloi and Joon Loloi, overseeing key initiatives in performance marketing, creative operations, customer experience, and cross-team collaboration


Ah Ha Moments with Cyrus Loloi:

"We just felt like there's an opportunity to speak to the trade in more modern, sort of novel ways that Loloi is not currently positioned to do." –Cyrus Loloi

"Every single product has to be mutually exclusive from Loloi. Number one, there's no reason to just launch something that's entirely redundant. And number two, we didn't want to sort of sell from under the retailers and designers that have supported Loloi all these years." –Cyrus Loloi

"You’re not outsiders coming from tech and trying to figure out how to sell furniture and rugs to you to make money. You’re insiders who have observed that there's another lane inside here." –LuAnn Nigara

"I believe one of the biggest mistakes in the industry is assuming that all 80,000 or so designers in the United States shop the same way, think the same way, business model is set up the same way." –Cyrus Loloi


Connect with Loloi:

Website

Instagram 

Tik Tok

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

]]> 3886 1145: What Would Lu Do?: How to Lead Projects With Architects and Builders (Without the Drama) Today with LuAnn Nigara: When it comes to high-end projects, collaboration isn’t optional and it definitely isn’t casual. It has to be intentional. In this solo episode, LuAnn breaks down the systems, scripts, and standards that every designer needs to lead confidently alongside architects, builders, and trades. If you've ever felt like you're managing chaos instead of driving results, this episode will show you how to step into true project leadership without sacrificing your sanity or your margins. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources Mentioned: Operations 201: Project Workflow for Construction-Based Design” with Jenny Slingerland “Operations 301: Project Leadership in Construction” with Kat Anderson Tue, 02 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with LuAnn Nigara: When it comes to high-end projects, collaboration isn’t optional and it definitely isn’t casual. It has to be intentional. In this solo episode, LuAnn breaks down the systems, scripts, and standards that every designer needs to lead confidently alongside architects, builders, and trades. If you've ever felt like you're managing chaos instead of driving results, this episode will show you how to step into true project leadership without sacrificing your sanity or your margins. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources Mentioned: Operations 201: Project Workflow for Construction-Based Design” with Jenny Slingerland “Operations 301: Project Leadership in Construction” with Kat Anderson Today with LuAnn Nigara:

When it comes to high-end projects, collaboration isn’t optional and it definitely isn’t casual. It has to be intentional. In this solo episode, LuAnn breaks down the systems, scripts, and standards that every designer needs to lead confidently alongside architects, builders, and trades.

If you've ever felt like you're managing chaos instead of driving results, this episode will show you how to step into true project leadership without sacrificing your sanity or your margins.


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠


Other Resources Mentioned:

Operations 201: Project Workflow for Construction-Based Design” with Jenny Slingerland


“Operations 301: Project Leadership in Construction” with Kat Anderson

]]> 1432 1144: BEST OF SHOW: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC.  “Your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination.” This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need. LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It’s more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” – Marianna Zimmerman    “Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” – Marianna Zimmerman   “You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you’re on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” – LuAnn Nigara More about Marianna Zimmerman: Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.   She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.   Marianna believes “great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to.” She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto “your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination”… The Best is yet to come!   While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that “one unique piece” that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.   She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, “think outside the box” flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client’s specific style and needs. Connect with Marianna Zimmerman: Website  Instagram  Facebook Other Shows Mentioned: # 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 # 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm # 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business # 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details # 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why Fri, 28 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC.  “Your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination.” This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need. LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It’s more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” – Marianna Zimmerman    “Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” – Marianna Zimmerman   “You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you’re on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” – LuAnn Nigara More about Marianna Zimmerman: Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.   She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.   Marianna believes “great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to.” She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto “your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination”… The Best is yet to come!   While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that “one unique piece” that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.   She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, “think outside the box” flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client’s specific style and needs. Connect with Marianna Zimmerman: Website  Instagram  Facebook Other Shows Mentioned: # 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 # 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm # 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business # 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details # 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why Today with Marianna Zimmerman

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC. 

“Your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination.” This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need.


LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It’s more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” – Marianna Zimmerman 

 

“Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” – Marianna Zimmerman

 

“You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you’re on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” – LuAnn Nigara


More about Marianna Zimmerman:

Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.

 

She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.

 

Marianna believes “great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to.” She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto “your current situation doesn’t have to be your final destination”… The Best is yet to come!

 

While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that “one unique piece” that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.

 

She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, “think outside the box” flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client’s specific style and needs.


Connect with Marianna Zimmerman:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook


Other Shows Mentioned:

# 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017

# 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

# 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

# 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details

# 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

]]> 3684 1143: LuAnn Featured: LuAnn Joins Carol Cox on the "Speaking Your Brand" Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara on Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox: In this panel conversation hosted by Carol Cox, LuAnn joins fellow powerhouse women to talk about what it really means to build a thought leadership platform. From podcasting and speaking to owning your niche and telling your story, this episode is packed with insight for anyone ready to step up and be seen. LuAnn shares her journey from launching A Well-Designed Business to growing it into a multi-million-download platform, and how her focused, niche-driven approach helped her become a sought-after speaker and mentor in the interior design industry. You’ll hear her thoughts on consistency, visibility, and the mindset shifts that separate dabblers from real business leaders. Whether you’ve thought about hosting events, sharing more of your voice, or simply showing up more powerfully in your brand, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting and start leading. What You’ll Hear: How LuAnn built visibility and authority through podcasting and live events Why niche clarity is critical to growth The difference between vulnerability and over-sharing in business What it takes to speak with confidence—and why it’s a skill worth learning Why generosity and collaboration fuel long-term success More About Carol Cox: Carol Morgan Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®, host of the weekly Speaking Your Brand® podcast, and a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, business storytelling, AI strategy, and women's leadership. Connect with Carol Cox: Website Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Carol Cox's Shows on A Well-Designed Business: Episode 140: Today We Celebrate the 1st Birthday of A Well-Designed Business! Carol Cox of Speaking Your Brand Interviews LuAnn! Episode 307: Carol Cox: How To Be a Great Panelist at an Interior Design Event Tue, 25 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara on Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox: In this panel conversation hosted by Carol Cox, LuAnn joins fellow powerhouse women to talk about what it really means to build a thought leadership platform. From podcasting and speaking to owning your niche and telling your story, this episode is packed with insight for anyone ready to step up and be seen. LuAnn shares her journey from launching A Well-Designed Business to growing it into a multi-million-download platform, and how her focused, niche-driven approach helped her become a sought-after speaker and mentor in the interior design industry. You’ll hear her thoughts on consistency, visibility, and the mindset shifts that separate dabblers from real business leaders. Whether you’ve thought about hosting events, sharing more of your voice, or simply showing up more powerfully in your brand, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting and start leading. What You’ll Hear: How LuAnn built visibility and authority through podcasting and live events Why niche clarity is critical to growth The difference between vulnerability and over-sharing in business What it takes to speak with confidence—and why it’s a skill worth learning Why generosity and collaboration fuel long-term success More About Carol Cox: Carol Morgan Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®, host of the weekly Speaking Your Brand® podcast, and a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, business storytelling, AI strategy, and women's leadership. Connect with Carol Cox: Website Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Carol Cox's Shows on A Well-Designed Business: Episode 140: Today We Celebrate the 1st Birthday of A Well-Designed Business! Carol Cox of Speaking Your Brand Interviews LuAnn! Episode 307: Carol Cox: How To Be a Great Panelist at an Interior Design Event Today With LuAnn Nigara on Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox:

In this panel conversation hosted by Carol Cox, LuAnn joins fellow powerhouse women to talk about what it really means to build a thought leadership platform. From podcasting and speaking to owning your niche and telling your story, this episode is packed with insight for anyone ready to step up and be seen.

LuAnn shares her journey from launching A Well-Designed Business to growing it into a multi-million-download platform, and how her focused, niche-driven approach helped her become a sought-after speaker and mentor in the interior design industry. You’ll hear her thoughts on consistency, visibility, and the mindset shifts that separate dabblers from real business leaders.

Whether you’ve thought about hosting events, sharing more of your voice, or simply showing up more powerfully in your brand, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting and start leading.


What You’ll Hear:

  • How LuAnn built visibility and authority through podcasting and live events
  • Why niche clarity is critical to growth
  • The difference between vulnerability and over-sharing in business
  • What it takes to speak with confidence—and why it’s a skill worth learning
  • Why generosity and collaboration fuel long-term success


More About Carol Cox:

Carol Morgan Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®, host of the weekly Speaking Your Brand® podcast, and a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, business storytelling, AI strategy, and women's leadership.


Connect with Carol Cox:

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

Podcast


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Carol Cox's Shows on A Well-Designed Business:

Episode 140: Today We Celebrate the 1st Birthday of A Well-Designed Business! Carol Cox of Speaking Your Brand Interviews LuAnn!


Episode 307: Carol Cox: How To Be a Great Panelist at an Interior Design Event

]]> 1799 1142: BEST OF SHOW: Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business Today with Chanae Richards  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success. LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards   “What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara “I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards More about Chane Richards: Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation. Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network. Connect with Chanae Richards: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Pinterest Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   AWDB #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Chanae Richards  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success. LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards   “What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara “I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards More about Chane Richards: Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation. Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network. Connect with Chanae Richards: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Pinterest Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   AWDB #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist Today with Chanae Richards 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success.


LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards

 

“What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara

“I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards


More about Chane Richards:

Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation.

Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network.


Connect with Chanae Richards:

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

Pinterest


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

 

AWDB #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist


]]> 3897 1141: Nate Berkus: “Foundations”: His New Book and 30 Years of Interior Design Business Wisdom Today With Nate Berkus Today on A Well-Designed Business®, I’m joined once again by one of our most requested guests: Nate Berkus. If you’ve listened to our first conversation (Episode #433⁠), you already know Nate brings a level of clarity and intention that’s rare, not just in design, but in business. This time around, we talk leadership. Team. Vision. What it means to build a business that reflects your values, not just your style. Nate shares how he’s structured his firm for long-term success—what he delegates, how he hires, and the culture he protects. And, exciting news, his newest book Foundations is officially available today. This isn’t just a beautiful book. It’s a deeply personal one, centered on meaning, memory, and what it truly feels like to live in a space that reflects who you are. Grab your copy wherever books are sold. In this episode, you’ll hear: What it means to lead from your strengths and hire to fill the gaps The structure and intention behind a team that thrives How personal values show up in professional design Why restraint can be more powerful than excess What Foundations reveals about Nate’s own evolution Order Foundations today here Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433 Learn how to hire well with the Dream Team Toolkit at LuAnnUniversity.com Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring More About Nate Berkus NATE BERKUS is one of the world’s most influential interior designers, known for his elevated yet accessible approach to interiors. His thirty-year-and-counting career has included innumerable television shows and home collections, along with designing award-winning interiors. Consistently named to the AD100 and Elle Decor A-List, Nate lives in New York with his husband, Jeremiah Brent, and their children, Poppy and Oskar. Ah Ha Moments with Nate Berkus "If I'm gonna design and sell a bath mat for $12... shouldn't my feet have been on a bath mat for 500 and shouldn't I have also walked on a bath mat for six? ... I feel like it's my responsibility to know." - Nate "Grace goes a long way. You never want to be the person on someone's schedule... where their name shows up on their phone and they think to themselves, 'this is going to be a long day.'" - Nate "I can tell you that regardless of the level of success...there is something different about a certain subset of you guys that I've interviewed where the passion is so deep to that connection to the past, to the source, to the anthropology of it, to the history of it... and it's always... the person that it's important to, their design work is always elevated." -LuAnn Connect with Nate Berkus Website Instagram  Book Rug USA What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resource Mentioned: Nate’s newest book: Foundations: Timeless Design That Feels Personal Other Shows Mentioned Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433 Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring Tue, 18 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Nate Berkus Today on A Well-Designed Business®, I’m joined once again by one of our most requested guests: Nate Berkus. If you’ve listened to our first conversation (Episode #433⁠), you already know Nate brings a level of clarity and intention that’s rare, not just in design, but in business. This time around, we talk leadership. Team. Vision. What it means to build a business that reflects your values, not just your style. Nate shares how he’s structured his firm for long-term success—what he delegates, how he hires, and the culture he protects. And, exciting news, his newest book Foundations is officially available today. This isn’t just a beautiful book. It’s a deeply personal one, centered on meaning, memory, and what it truly feels like to live in a space that reflects who you are. Grab your copy wherever books are sold. In this episode, you’ll hear: What it means to lead from your strengths and hire to fill the gaps The structure and intention behind a team that thrives How personal values show up in professional design Why restraint can be more powerful than excess What Foundations reveals about Nate’s own evolution Order Foundations today here Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433 Learn how to hire well with the Dream Team Toolkit at LuAnnUniversity.com Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring More About Nate Berkus NATE BERKUS is one of the world’s most influential interior designers, known for his elevated yet accessible approach to interiors. His thirty-year-and-counting career has included innumerable television shows and home collections, along with designing award-winning interiors. Consistently named to the AD100 and Elle Decor A-List, Nate lives in New York with his husband, Jeremiah Brent, and their children, Poppy and Oskar. Ah Ha Moments with Nate Berkus "If I'm gonna design and sell a bath mat for $12... shouldn't my feet have been on a bath mat for 500 and shouldn't I have also walked on a bath mat for six? ... I feel like it's my responsibility to know." - Nate "Grace goes a long way. You never want to be the person on someone's schedule... where their name shows up on their phone and they think to themselves, 'this is going to be a long day.'" - Nate "I can tell you that regardless of the level of success...there is something different about a certain subset of you guys that I've interviewed where the passion is so deep to that connection to the past, to the source, to the anthropology of it, to the history of it... and it's always... the person that it's important to, their design work is always elevated." -LuAnn Connect with Nate Berkus Website Instagram  Book Rug USA What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resource Mentioned: Nate’s newest book: Foundations: Timeless Design That Feels Personal Other Shows Mentioned Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433 Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring Today With Nate Berkus

Today on A Well-Designed Business®, I’m joined once again by one of our most requested guests: Nate Berkus. If you’ve listened to our first conversation (Episode #433⁠), you already know Nate brings a level of clarity and intention that’s rare, not just in design, but in business.

This time around, we talk leadership. Team. Vision. What it means to build a business that reflects your values, not just your style. Nate shares how he’s structured his firm for long-term success—what he delegates, how he hires, and the culture he protects.

And, exciting news, his newest book Foundations is officially available today. This isn’t just a beautiful book. It’s a deeply personal one, centered on meaning, memory, and what it truly feels like to live in a space that reflects who you are. Grab your copy wherever books are sold.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • What it means to lead from your strengths and hire to fill the gaps

  • The structure and intention behind a team that thrives

  • How personal values show up in professional design

  • Why restraint can be more powerful than excess

  • What Foundations reveals about Nate’s own evolution

    Order Foundations today here

Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433

Learn how to hire well with the Dream Team Toolkit at LuAnnUniversity.com

Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring


More About Nate Berkus

NATE BERKUS is one of the world’s most influential interior designers, known for his elevated yet accessible approach to interiors. His thirty-year-and-counting career has included innumerable television shows and home collections, along with designing award-winning interiors. Consistently named to the AD100 and Elle Decor A-List, Nate lives in New York with his husband, Jeremiah Brent, and their children, Poppy and Oskar.


Ah Ha Moments with Nate Berkus

"If I'm gonna design and sell a bath mat for $12... shouldn't my feet have been on a bath mat for 500 and shouldn't I have also walked on a bath mat for six? ... I feel like it's my responsibility to know." - Nate

"Grace goes a long way. You never want to be the person on someone's schedule... where their name shows up on their phone and they think to themselves, 'this is going to be a long day.'" - Nate

"I can tell you that regardless of the level of success...there is something different about a certain subset of you guys that I've interviewed where the passion is so deep to that connection to the past, to the source, to the anthropology of it, to the history of it... and it's always... the person that it's important to, their design work is always elevated." -LuAnn


Connect with Nate Berkus

Website

Instagram 

Book

Rug USA


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resource Mentioned:

Nate’s newest book: Foundations: Timeless Design That Feels Personal


Other Shows Mentioned

Listen to Nate’s first appearance in Episode #433


Related Episodes: Eileen Hahn on leadership and values-driven hiring

]]> 3946 1140: Overheard: How to Build a Steady Referral Pipeline with Darci Hether, Rebecca Robinson, and Lacey Michalek Today With Darci Hether, Rebecca Robinson, and Lacey Michalek Today on A Well-Designed Business, three seasoned designers share how they transformed their referral marketing by working with expert Stacey Brown Randall. Rebecca Robinson went from 18 to 40 referrals per year, Lacey Michalek turned a mahjong game into multiple projects, and Darci Hether developed systems for building warm relationships with industry professionals. You'll learn the exact referral language that creates psychological responses in past clients, why face-to-face networking beats social media for generating real momentum, and how to turn cold prospects into warm referral sources through strategic events. These aren't theories, they're proven tactics from experienced designers who've seen dramatic results. If you've been hoping referrals will just happen, this episode gives you the actionable roadmap to build relationships that consistently convert into new business. Other Resource Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Stacey Brown Randall’s Newest Book: “The Referable Client Experience” Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management AWDB: #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience! AWDB: #558: Rebecca Robinson: Provide Value & Create Relationships with Contractors AWDB: #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking AWDB #220: Darci Hether: Literally The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business Fri, 14 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Darci Hether, Rebecca Robinson, and Lacey Michalek Today on A Well-Designed Business, three seasoned designers share how they transformed their referral marketing by working with expert Stacey Brown Randall. Rebecca Robinson went from 18 to 40 referrals per year, Lacey Michalek turned a mahjong game into multiple projects, and Darci Hether developed systems for building warm relationships with industry professionals. You'll learn the exact referral language that creates psychological responses in past clients, why face-to-face networking beats social media for generating real momentum, and how to turn cold prospects into warm referral sources through strategic events. These aren't theories, they're proven tactics from experienced designers who've seen dramatic results. If you've been hoping referrals will just happen, this episode gives you the actionable roadmap to build relationships that consistently convert into new business. Other Resource Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Stacey Brown Randall’s Newest Book: “The Referable Client Experience” Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management AWDB: #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience! AWDB: #558: Rebecca Robinson: Provide Value & Create Relationships with Contractors AWDB: #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking AWDB #220: Darci Hether: Literally The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business Today With Darci Hether, Rebecca Robinson, and Lacey Michalek

Today on A Well-Designed Business, three seasoned designers share how they transformed their referral marketing by working with expert Stacey Brown Randall. Rebecca Robinson went from 18 to 40 referrals per year, Lacey Michalek turned a mahjong game into multiple projects, and Darci Hether developed systems for building warm relationships with industry professionals.

You'll learn the exact referral language that creates psychological responses in past clients, why face-to-face networking beats social media for generating real momentum, and how to turn cold prospects into warm referral sources through strategic events.

These aren't theories, they're proven tactics from experienced designers who've seen dramatic results. If you've been hoping referrals will just happen, this episode gives you the actionable roadmap to build relationships that consistently convert into new business.


Other Resource Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Stacey Brown Randall’s Newest Book: “The Referable Client Experience”


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB: #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management

AWDB: #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience!

AWDB: #558: Rebecca Robinson: Provide Value & Create Relationships with Contractors

AWDB: #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking

AWDB #220: Darci Hether: Literally The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business

]]> 3363 1139: Rebecca Ward: Money, Mindset, Pricing, and Starting Your Interior Design Firm Today With Rebecca Ward Mentorship can make all the difference in your design career. Yet many new designers hesitate to take the leap, unsure how to translate their skills into a business or where to find the right support. That’s why Rebecca Ward—CEO and Principal Designer of Rebecca Ward Design in Sacramento—has made mentorship her mission. With over 18 years of experience and an award-winning residential design portfolio, she knows what it takes to step into this industry with confidence and clarity. In this episode, Rebecca and I talk about what it really means to shift from an employee mindset to an entrepreneurial one, how to reshape your money mindset so you can lead clients at any level, and why cultivating a growth mindset is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re a baby designer just starting out or a seasoned business owner, you’ll find Rebecca’s grounded wisdom and practical guidance inspiring—and packed with lessons you can put into action right away. Her artistic skill shines in creating contemporary spaces that fit the dynamic lifestyles of families today. She believes in enhancing lives through interior design, making surroundings more  impactful for productivity and mood. Her goal is to create spaces that reflect clients' needs,  helping them be their best selves in the world. Beyond her design prowess, Rebecca is dedicated to nurturing emerging talents in interior design. In 2021, she launched the "My Design Mentor" program, empowering individuals to succeed in the field. Her commitment extends to elevating the profession as a whole. Following this, Rebecca expanded her reach by hosting the "Design Curious Podcast," sharing insights with a broader audience keen on exploring the world of design.  She values a strong design community, actively investing in local peers through monthly gatherings that foster collaboration and growth. Outside of design, Rebecca finds harmony in music, performing with her attorney husband in their acoustic duo. Cherishing family time, she enjoys moments with her two children and lively labradoodle. Rebecca Ward's journey is defined by her dedication to design excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to both her craft and community. Ah Ha Moments with Rebecca Ward “Being a CEO requires so many more different skills and a whole new mindset." – Rebecca Ward "You cannot save your clients’ money for them. Your role is to design at the level they’ve invited you into, not to hold back because of your own money story." – LuAnn Nigara "I have this saying—I’ve said it a thousand times: Do I want to be right, or do I want to get what I want? Before I get on the phone, I know exactly what I want, what I’m willing to do for it, and what I’m willing to give up if I don’t get it." – LuAnn Nigara Connect with Rebecca Ward Podcast Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn X What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #1123: Ali Faulkner: What to Do When a Client Says “No”: Lessons from a Lost Design Proposal AWDB #1021: Ann Cariola: Launching an Interior Design Firm at Age 60—It’s Never Too Late AWDB #1100: Best Of Show: Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Rebecca Ward Mentorship can make all the difference in your design career. Yet many new designers hesitate to take the leap, unsure how to translate their skills into a business or where to find the right support. That’s why Rebecca Ward—CEO and Principal Designer of Rebecca Ward Design in Sacramento—has made mentorship her mission. With over 18 years of experience and an award-winning residential design portfolio, she knows what it takes to step into this industry with confidence and clarity. In this episode, Rebecca and I talk about what it really means to shift from an employee mindset to an entrepreneurial one, how to reshape your money mindset so you can lead clients at any level, and why cultivating a growth mindset is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re a baby designer just starting out or a seasoned business owner, you’ll find Rebecca’s grounded wisdom and practical guidance inspiring—and packed with lessons you can put into action right away. Her artistic skill shines in creating contemporary spaces that fit the dynamic lifestyles of families today. She believes in enhancing lives through interior design, making surroundings more  impactful for productivity and mood. Her goal is to create spaces that reflect clients' needs,  helping them be their best selves in the world. Beyond her design prowess, Rebecca is dedicated to nurturing emerging talents in interior design. In 2021, she launched the "My Design Mentor" program, empowering individuals to succeed in the field. Her commitment extends to elevating the profession as a whole. Following this, Rebecca expanded her reach by hosting the "Design Curious Podcast," sharing insights with a broader audience keen on exploring the world of design.  She values a strong design community, actively investing in local peers through monthly gatherings that foster collaboration and growth. Outside of design, Rebecca finds harmony in music, performing with her attorney husband in their acoustic duo. Cherishing family time, she enjoys moments with her two children and lively labradoodle. Rebecca Ward's journey is defined by her dedication to design excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to both her craft and community. Ah Ha Moments with Rebecca Ward “Being a CEO requires so many more different skills and a whole new mindset." – Rebecca Ward "You cannot save your clients’ money for them. Your role is to design at the level they’ve invited you into, not to hold back because of your own money story." – LuAnn Nigara "I have this saying—I’ve said it a thousand times: Do I want to be right, or do I want to get what I want? Before I get on the phone, I know exactly what I want, what I’m willing to do for it, and what I’m willing to give up if I don’t get it." – LuAnn Nigara Connect with Rebecca Ward Podcast Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn X What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #1123: Ali Faulkner: What to Do When a Client Says “No”: Lessons from a Lost Design Proposal AWDB #1021: Ann Cariola: Launching an Interior Design Firm at Age 60—It’s Never Too Late AWDB #1100: Best Of Show: Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today With Rebecca Ward

Mentorship can make all the difference in your design career. Yet many new designers hesitate to take the leap, unsure how to translate their skills into a business or where to find the right support. That’s why Rebecca Ward—CEO and Principal Designer of Rebecca Ward Design in Sacramento—has made mentorship her mission. With over 18 years of experience and an award-winning residential design portfolio, she knows what it takes to step into this industry with confidence and clarity.

In this episode, Rebecca and I talk about what it really means to shift from an employee mindset to an entrepreneurial one, how to reshape your money mindset so you can lead clients at any level, and why cultivating a growth mindset is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re a baby designer just starting out or a seasoned business owner, you’ll find Rebecca’s grounded wisdom and practical guidance inspiring—and packed with lessons you can put into action right away.

Her artistic skill shines in creating contemporary spaces that fit the dynamic lifestyles of families today. She believes in enhancing lives through interior design, making surroundings more  impactful for productivity and mood. Her goal is to create spaces that reflect clients' needs,  helping them be their best selves in the world.


Beyond her design prowess, Rebecca is dedicated to nurturing emerging talents in interior design. In 2021, she launched the "My Design Mentor" program, empowering individuals to succeed in the field. Her commitment extends to elevating the profession as a whole. Following this, Rebecca expanded her reach by hosting the "Design Curious Podcast," sharing insights with a broader audience keen on exploring the world of design.  She values a strong design community, actively investing in local peers through monthly gatherings that foster collaboration and growth.


Outside of design, Rebecca finds harmony in music, performing with her attorney husband in their acoustic duo. Cherishing family time, she enjoys moments with her two children and lively labradoodle.

Rebecca Ward's journey is defined by her dedication to design excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to both her craft and community.


Ah Ha Moments with Rebecca Ward

“Being a CEO requires so many more different skills and a whole new mindset." – Rebecca Ward

"You cannot save your clients’ money for them. Your role is to design at the level they’ve invited you into, not to hold back because of your own money story." – LuAnn Nigara

"I have this saying—I’ve said it a thousand times: Do I want to be right, or do I want to get what I want? Before I get on the phone, I know exactly what I want, what I’m willing to do for it, and what I’m willing to give up if I don’t get it." – LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Rebecca Ward

Podcast

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

X

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #1123: Ali Faulkner: What to Do When a Client Says “No”: Lessons from a Lost Design Proposal

AWDB #1021: Ann Cariola: Launching an Interior Design Firm at Age 60—It’s Never Too Late

AWDB #1100: Best Of Show: Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 3998 1138: BEST OF SHOW: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business. LuAnn and Beth Bender’s Ah-Ha moments: “One of your premises is that interior designers should invest in the back end, operations end of the business. You’re talking my language because the whole premise of my podcast is that yes, you need talent to be successful, but your talent isn’t going to be the reason that you are successful. You can get some attraction and some clients, but to create a long lived sustainable profitable business you have to learn how to efficiently run the back end.” – LuAnn Nigara “We feel that for a design form to be able to have sustained growth you have to have a two-pronged approach. You have to be able to identify both your marketing needs and your financial needs and they have to be in step.” – Beth Bender “At the end of the day, it really should come down to counting every penny because there are tight margins. Regardless of whether you are charging by the hour, or a set fee you still have to know, How much time did I spend on that project? What was the monetary value of that time?” – Beth Bender More About Beth Bender: Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency. Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability. Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today. Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success. Connect with Beth Bender: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Other Shows Mentioned Episode 575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539 Sara Lynn Brennan Episodes: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463 Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business. LuAnn and Beth Bender’s Ah-Ha moments: “One of your premises is that interior designers should invest in the back end, operations end of the business. You’re talking my language because the whole premise of my podcast is that yes, you need talent to be successful, but your talent isn’t going to be the reason that you are successful. You can get some attraction and some clients, but to create a long lived sustainable profitable business you have to learn how to efficiently run the back end.” – LuAnn Nigara “We feel that for a design form to be able to have sustained growth you have to have a two-pronged approach. You have to be able to identify both your marketing needs and your financial needs and they have to be in step.” – Beth Bender “At the end of the day, it really should come down to counting every penny because there are tight margins. Regardless of whether you are charging by the hour, or a set fee you still have to know, How much time did I spend on that project? What was the monetary value of that time?” – Beth Bender More About Beth Bender: Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency. Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability. Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today. Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success. Connect with Beth Bender: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Other Shows Mentioned Episode 575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539 Sara Lynn Brennan Episodes: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463 Today with Beth Bender:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions.

With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business.


LuAnn and Beth Bender’s Ah-Ha moments:

“One of your premises is that interior designers should invest in the back end, operations end of the business. You’re talking my language because the whole premise of my podcast is that yes, you need talent to be successful, but your talent isn’t going to be the reason that you are successful. You can get some attraction and some clients, but to create a long lived sustainable profitable business you have to learn how to efficiently run the back end.” – LuAnn Nigara


“We feel that for a design form to be able to have sustained growth you have to have a two-pronged approach. You have to be able to identify both your marketing needs and your financial needs and they have to be in step.” – Beth Bender


“At the end of the day, it really should come down to counting every penny because there are tight margins. Regardless of whether you are charging by the hour, or a set fee you still have to know, How much time did I spend on that project? What was the monetary value of that time?” – Beth Bender


More About Beth Bender:

Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency.

Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability.

Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today.

Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success.


Connect with Beth Bender:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Other Shows Mentioned

Episode 575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year!

WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539

Sara Lynn Brennan Episodes: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463

]]> 4738 1137: Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick: Build a More Successful Design Business with the Right Partner Today With Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick How many times have you thought, "If only I had someone to handle the numbers, the marketing, and the tough client calls, I could just focus on design"? Today, I’m chatting with a duo who is living that reality—Trent Kendrick and Zain Suthar of Studio Fifth Sunday. They met in an Uber, both swearing off business partnerships, only to realize they were the perfect "left brain/right brain" match. Trent is the brilliant designer and artist; Zain is the operations and finance pro. Their story is a masterclass in how a well-matched partnership can change the game—creating accountability, unlocking new revenue streams, and allowing you to do more of what you love. Connect with Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick Website Instagram Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #977 Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner Tue, 04 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick How many times have you thought, "If only I had someone to handle the numbers, the marketing, and the tough client calls, I could just focus on design"? Today, I’m chatting with a duo who is living that reality—Trent Kendrick and Zain Suthar of Studio Fifth Sunday. They met in an Uber, both swearing off business partnerships, only to realize they were the perfect "left brain/right brain" match. Trent is the brilliant designer and artist; Zain is the operations and finance pro. Their story is a masterclass in how a well-matched partnership can change the game—creating accountability, unlocking new revenue streams, and allowing you to do more of what you love. Connect with Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick Website Instagram Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #977 Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner Today With Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick

How many times have you thought, "If only I had someone to handle the numbers, the marketing, and the tough client calls, I could just focus on design"?

Today, I’m chatting with a duo who is living that reality—Trent Kendrick and Zain Suthar of Studio Fifth Sunday.

They met in an Uber, both swearing off business partnerships, only to realize they were the perfect "left brain/right brain" match. Trent is the brilliant designer and artist; Zain is the operations and finance pro.

Their story is a masterclass in how a well-matched partnership can change the game—creating accountability, unlocking new revenue streams, and allowing you to do more of what you love.


Connect with Zain Suthar and Trent Kendrick

Website

Instagram


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #977 Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner

]]> 4738 1136: David Neagle: Three Powerful Choices That Will Change Everything in Your Interior Design Business Today With David Neagle Today with David Neagle, best-selling author, speaker, and host of The Successful Mind Podcast, we’re talking about the mindset shifts that can change everything in your business. David shares his journey from high school dropout on food stamps to building a multimillion-dollar company—and the simple daily decisions that sparked his transformation. We dive into the beliefs that keep entrepreneurs stuck, how to create a culture of success within your team, and how to spot the blind spots holding you back. More About David Neagle David Neagle is a speaker, best-selling author, founder of the multimillion-dollar global consulting company Life Is Now, Inc, and host of the Business Daily News ranked podcast - The Successful Mind. Being in the personal and professional development industry for more than 20 years, David has helped tens of thousands of students from across the globe gain confidence and find the right mindset needed to increase their revenue, turning their endeavors into seven- and eight-figure ventures. Ah Ha Moments with David Neagle “The opportunity was always there. Number two, I couldn’t see it because I had such a bad attitude. So when I changed my attitude, I changed my perception and it allowed me to even conceive about going down that road.” - David “Our greatest power is our ability to choose. The negativity never goes away completely. It’s that you discipline yourself to choose to focus on the opposite of that every day.” - David “The world doesn’t care enough to be against you. You’re doing it all by yourself.” - LuAnn Connect with David Neagle The Millions Within Book David Neagle The Successful Mind Podcast Instagram Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Check out David Neagle’s assessment quiz. A helpful tool to help you get started on a new path. Take The Quiz Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth AWDB #957: Power Talk Friday: Audrey Faust: Building Wealth Through a Positive Money Mindset Fri, 31 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With David Neagle Today with David Neagle, best-selling author, speaker, and host of The Successful Mind Podcast, we’re talking about the mindset shifts that can change everything in your business. David shares his journey from high school dropout on food stamps to building a multimillion-dollar company—and the simple daily decisions that sparked his transformation. We dive into the beliefs that keep entrepreneurs stuck, how to create a culture of success within your team, and how to spot the blind spots holding you back. More About David Neagle David Neagle is a speaker, best-selling author, founder of the multimillion-dollar global consulting company Life Is Now, Inc, and host of the Business Daily News ranked podcast - The Successful Mind. Being in the personal and professional development industry for more than 20 years, David has helped tens of thousands of students from across the globe gain confidence and find the right mindset needed to increase their revenue, turning their endeavors into seven- and eight-figure ventures. Ah Ha Moments with David Neagle “The opportunity was always there. Number two, I couldn’t see it because I had such a bad attitude. So when I changed my attitude, I changed my perception and it allowed me to even conceive about going down that road.” - David “Our greatest power is our ability to choose. The negativity never goes away completely. It’s that you discipline yourself to choose to focus on the opposite of that every day.” - David “The world doesn’t care enough to be against you. You’re doing it all by yourself.” - LuAnn Connect with David Neagle The Millions Within Book David Neagle The Successful Mind Podcast Instagram Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Check out David Neagle’s assessment quiz. A helpful tool to help you get started on a new path. Take The Quiz Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth AWDB #957: Power Talk Friday: Audrey Faust: Building Wealth Through a Positive Money Mindset Today With David Neagle

Today with David Neagle, best-selling author, speaker, and host of The Successful Mind Podcast, we’re talking about the mindset shifts that can change everything in your business. David shares his journey from high school dropout on food stamps to building a multimillion-dollar company—and the simple daily decisions that sparked his transformation. We dive into the beliefs that keep entrepreneurs stuck, how to create a culture of success within your team, and how to spot the blind spots holding you back.


More About David Neagle

David Neagle is a speaker, best-selling author, founder of the multimillion-dollar global consulting company Life Is Now, Inc, and host of the Business Daily News ranked podcast - The Successful Mind.

Being in the personal and professional development industry for more than 20 years, David has helped tens of thousands of students from across the globe gain confidence and find the right mindset needed to increase their revenue, turning their endeavors into seven- and eight-figure ventures.


Ah Ha Moments with David Neagle

“The opportunity was always there. Number two, I couldn’t see it because I had such a bad attitude. So when I changed my attitude, I changed my perception and it allowed me to even conceive about going down that road.” - David


“Our greatest power is our ability to choose. The negativity never goes away completely. It’s that you discipline yourself to choose to focus on the opposite of that every day.” - David


“The world doesn’t care enough to be against you. You’re doing it all by yourself.” - LuAnn


Connect with David Neagle The Millions Within Book

David Neagle

The Successful Mind Podcast

Instagram

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

LinkedIn

LinkedIn


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources Mentioned:

Check out David Neagle’s assessment quiz. A helpful tool to help you get started on a new path. Take The Quiz

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth

AWDB #957: Power Talk Friday: Audrey Faust: Building Wealth Through a Positive Money Mindset

]]> 3587 1135: Hannah Goldberg: How to Attract Dream Clients Before You Have an Interior Design Portfolio Today With Hannah Goldberg Today on A Well Designed Business, Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors shares how she built what she calls a "no-niche niche," working across multiple design styles while maintaining crystal-clear boundaries around her ideal client and design ethos. Hannah breaks down how to navigate the "yes era" of early business, using vignettes and mood boards to communicate your aesthetic before you have perfect portfolio shots, and why investing in professional branding from day one made all the difference. From building an email list while bartending to surviving a chandelier crisis at The Mansion in May show house, Hannah's journey demonstrates how clarity on your design ethos becomes the foundation for sustainable growth, even when you're stretching across different styles and projects. If you're wondering how to attract your dream clients before you have the perfect portfolio, this conversation offers a roadmap for building with intention from the start. More About Hannah Goldberg Hannah Goldberg is the founder and principal of Hannah Charlotte Interiors, specializing in bespoke commercial and residential design projects in DC and beyond. With over a decade of industry experience blending her passion for design with her engineering and interior architecture background, Hannah ensures each space is functional and beautiful, with a focus on collaboration and client vision. Each of her projects is tailored to diverse needs and aesthetics, drawing inspiration from nature, art, food, and travel. Ah Ha Moments with Hannah Goldberg "I made the conscious decision that my projects are not going to look the same—and that's okay for what I want in my business."- Hannah Charlotte Connect with Hannah Goldberg Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No #917: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: The Five Things All Successful People Do Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Hannah Goldberg Today on A Well Designed Business, Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors shares how she built what she calls a "no-niche niche," working across multiple design styles while maintaining crystal-clear boundaries around her ideal client and design ethos. Hannah breaks down how to navigate the "yes era" of early business, using vignettes and mood boards to communicate your aesthetic before you have perfect portfolio shots, and why investing in professional branding from day one made all the difference. From building an email list while bartending to surviving a chandelier crisis at The Mansion in May show house, Hannah's journey demonstrates how clarity on your design ethos becomes the foundation for sustainable growth, even when you're stretching across different styles and projects. If you're wondering how to attract your dream clients before you have the perfect portfolio, this conversation offers a roadmap for building with intention from the start. More About Hannah Goldberg Hannah Goldberg is the founder and principal of Hannah Charlotte Interiors, specializing in bespoke commercial and residential design projects in DC and beyond. With over a decade of industry experience blending her passion for design with her engineering and interior architecture background, Hannah ensures each space is functional and beautiful, with a focus on collaboration and client vision. Each of her projects is tailored to diverse needs and aesthetics, drawing inspiration from nature, art, food, and travel. Ah Ha Moments with Hannah Goldberg "I made the conscious decision that my projects are not going to look the same—and that's okay for what I want in my business."- Hannah Charlotte Connect with Hannah Goldberg Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No #917: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: The Five Things All Successful People Do Today With Hannah Goldberg

Today on A Well Designed Business, Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors shares how she built what she calls a "no-niche niche," working across multiple design styles while maintaining crystal-clear boundaries around her ideal client and design ethos.

Hannah breaks down how to navigate the "yes era" of early business, using vignettes and mood boards to communicate your aesthetic before you have perfect portfolio shots, and why investing in professional branding from day one made all the difference.

From building an email list while bartending to surviving a chandelier crisis at The Mansion in May show house, Hannah's journey demonstrates how clarity on your design ethos becomes the foundation for sustainable growth, even when you're stretching across different styles and projects.

If you're wondering how to attract your dream clients before you have the perfect portfolio, this conversation offers a roadmap for building with intention from the start.

More About Hannah Goldberg

Hannah Goldberg is the founder and principal of Hannah Charlotte Interiors, specializing in bespoke commercial and residential design projects in DC and beyond. With over a decade of industry experience blending her passion for design with her engineering and interior architecture background, Hannah ensures each space is functional and beautiful, with a focus on collaboration and client vision. Each of her projects is tailored to diverse needs and aesthetics, drawing inspiration from nature, art, food, and travel.


Ah Ha Moments with Hannah Goldberg

"I made the conscious decision that my projects are not going to look the same—and that's okay for what I want in my business."- Hannah Charlotte


Connect with Hannah Goldberg

Website

Instagram

Pinterest


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Other Shows Mentioned:

#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No


#917: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: The Five Things All Successful People Do

]]> 4312 1134: BEST OF SHOW: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer. Pick it Apart: [6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace. [10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in. [16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business. [27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business. [48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television. LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer’s Ah-Ha Moments “Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” – Jean Stoffer. “I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” – Jean Stoffer. “I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” – LuAnn Nigara. “It’s very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” – LuAnn Nigara. More about Jean Stoffer Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients’ lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean’s own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work. Connect with Jean Stoffer Website Stoffer Home Instagram Pinterest What's New with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get the Goodies For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn's Books Here Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography Fri, 24 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer. Pick it Apart: [6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace. [10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in. [16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business. [27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business. [48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television. LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer’s Ah-Ha Moments “Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” – Jean Stoffer. “I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” – Jean Stoffer. “I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” – LuAnn Nigara. “It’s very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” – LuAnn Nigara. More about Jean Stoffer Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients’ lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean’s own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work. Connect with Jean Stoffer Website Stoffer Home Instagram Pinterest What's New with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get the Goodies For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn's Books Here Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography Today With Jean Stoffer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer.

Pick it Apart:

[6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace.

[10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in.

[16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business.

[27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business.

[48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television.

LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” – Jean Stoffer.

“I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” – Jean Stoffer.

“I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” – LuAnn Nigara.

“It’s very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” – LuAnn Nigara.


More about Jean Stoffer

Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients’ lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean’s own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work.


Connect with Jean Stoffer

Website

Stoffer Home

Instagram

Pinterest


What's New with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get the Goodies

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn's Books Here

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned

#563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

]]> 4155 1133: Overheard: 3 Experts, One Mission: Build a Website That Converts with Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer Today With Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer We all know that a website is important. It’s your calling card, your portfolio, the place where clients go to make sure you’re a legitimate designer who does what you say you do.  But so many designers are still going wrong with their websites. And the problem with doing it yourself is that there are so many pieces involved, layout, the design, the SEO, the copywriting, and when your website isn’t doing what it needs to do, it’s hard to even know where to start fixing the problem.  More About Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer Ebony Looney: Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in. Deb Mitchell: Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services. Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites. Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs. Nicole Heymer: Owner and Creative Director, Glory & Brand Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders. Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops. Connect with Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer  Nicole Heymer Deb Mitchell Ebony Looney Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design AWDB #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website AWDB #1087: Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer We all know that a website is important. It’s your calling card, your portfolio, the place where clients go to make sure you’re a legitimate designer who does what you say you do.  But so many designers are still going wrong with their websites. And the problem with doing it yourself is that there are so many pieces involved, layout, the design, the SEO, the copywriting, and when your website isn’t doing what it needs to do, it’s hard to even know where to start fixing the problem.  More About Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer Ebony Looney: Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in. Deb Mitchell: Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services. Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites. Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs. Nicole Heymer: Owner and Creative Director, Glory & Brand Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders. Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops. Connect with Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer  Nicole Heymer Deb Mitchell Ebony Looney Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design AWDB #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website AWDB #1087: Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen Today With Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer

We all know that a website is important. It’s your calling card, your portfolio, the place where clients go to make sure you’re a legitimate designer who does what you say you do. 

But so many designers are still going wrong with their websites. And the problem with doing it yourself is that there are so many pieces involved, layout, the design, the SEO, the copywriting, and when your website isn’t doing what it needs to do, it’s hard to even know where to start fixing the problem. 


More About Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer

Ebony Looney: Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in.

Deb Mitchell: Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services.

Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites.

Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs.

Nicole Heymer: Owner and Creative Director, Glory & Brand Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders. Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops.


Connect with Ebony Looney, Deb Mitchell, and Nicole Heymer 

Nicole Heymer

Deb Mitchell

Ebony Looney


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

AWDB #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website

AWDB #1087: Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

]]> 5112 1132: Jessica Nelson, Stephanie Lindsey: Using AI to Streamline Your Interior Design Business Today with Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that’s changing how potential clients find interior designers. We’re living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google’s AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you’re getting most of your business from referrals or you’re heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage. LuAnn Nigara, Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey's Ah-Ha Moments “For us, ChatGPT and custom GPTs are really where it started. We’ve built maybe 50 or 60 of them, from personality analyzers to budget calculators to city code checkers, and we use them every day. It helps us understand clients, understand our team, and communicate better. That’s been transformational for our firm.” - Stephanie More About Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey are the designers and co-founders behind AI for Interiors, a platform that helps interior designers use AI tools in ways that actually make their jobs—and their lives—easier.  As the founders of Etch Design Group, they’ve experienced firsthand how the right AI tools can give back valuable time and simplify the day-to-day, all without losing the personal touch that makes design so powerful. Jessica blends a background in both IT and design, making her the go-to for AI tools and tech strategy. Stephanie keeps it all grounded in the realities of running a busy, high-touch design studio. Together, they teach practical, real-world ways to use AI—and they’re passionate about helping designers stay in control of their process while working smarter, not harder. Connect with AI for Interiors Website - AI For Interiors Podcast - Apple Podcast Podcast - Spotify YouTube LinkedIn - Stephanie LinkedIn - Jessica Instagram Website - Etch Design Group 100 Lunches Podcast - Apple Podcast 100 Lunches Podcast - Spotify What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn NigaraLuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes AWDB #1110: NEW SHOW: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business AWDB #950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #722 How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB #1099 Shea McGee: From Dream to Empire: How Shea Built Studio McGee 3.0 Get the Beth Diana Smith Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here ⁠Get the Anastasia Harrison Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here Fri, 17 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that’s changing how potential clients find interior designers. We’re living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google’s AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you’re getting most of your business from referrals or you’re heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage. LuAnn Nigara, Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey's Ah-Ha Moments “For us, ChatGPT and custom GPTs are really where it started. We’ve built maybe 50 or 60 of them, from personality analyzers to budget calculators to city code checkers, and we use them every day. It helps us understand clients, understand our team, and communicate better. That’s been transformational for our firm.” - Stephanie More About Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey are the designers and co-founders behind AI for Interiors, a platform that helps interior designers use AI tools in ways that actually make their jobs—and their lives—easier.  As the founders of Etch Design Group, they’ve experienced firsthand how the right AI tools can give back valuable time and simplify the day-to-day, all without losing the personal touch that makes design so powerful. Jessica blends a background in both IT and design, making her the go-to for AI tools and tech strategy. Stephanie keeps it all grounded in the realities of running a busy, high-touch design studio. Together, they teach practical, real-world ways to use AI—and they’re passionate about helping designers stay in control of their process while working smarter, not harder. Connect with AI for Interiors Website - AI For Interiors Podcast - Apple Podcast Podcast - Spotify YouTube LinkedIn - Stephanie LinkedIn - Jessica Instagram Website - Etch Design Group 100 Lunches Podcast - Apple Podcast 100 Lunches Podcast - Spotify What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn NigaraLuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes AWDB #1110: NEW SHOW: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business AWDB #950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #722 How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB #1099 Shea McGee: From Dream to Empire: How Shea Built Studio McGee 3.0 Get the Beth Diana Smith Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here ⁠Get the Anastasia Harrison Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here Today with Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey

Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that’s changing how potential clients find interior designers. We’re living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google’s AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you’re getting most of your business from referrals or you’re heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage.


LuAnn Nigara, Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey's Ah-Ha Moments

“For us, ChatGPT and custom GPTs are really where it started. We’ve built maybe 50 or 60 of them, from personality analyzers to budget calculators to city code checkers, and we use them every day. It helps us understand clients, understand our team, and communicate better. That’s been transformational for our firm.” - Stephanie


More About Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey

Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey are the designers and co-founders behind AI for Interiors, a platform that helps interior designers use AI tools in ways that actually make their jobs—and their lives—easier.  As the founders of Etch Design Group, they’ve experienced firsthand how the right AI tools can give back valuable time and simplify the day-to-day, all without losing the personal touch that makes design so powerful.

Jessica blends a background in both IT and design, making her the go-to for AI tools and tech strategy.

Stephanie keeps it all grounded in the realities of running a busy, high-touch design studio. Together, they teach practical, real-world ways to use AI—and they’re passionate about helping designers stay in control of their process while working smarter, not harder.


Connect with AI for Interiors

Website - AI For Interiors

Podcast - Apple Podcast

Podcast - Spotify

YouTube

LinkedIn - Stephanie

LinkedIn - Jessica

Instagram

Website - Etch Design Group

100 Lunches Podcast - Apple Podcast

100 Lunches Podcast - Spotify


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes

AWDB #1110: NEW SHOW: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business

AWDB #950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #722 How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #1099 Shea McGee: From Dream to Empire: How Shea Built Studio McGee 3.0

Get the Beth Diana Smith Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here

⁠Get the Anastasia Harrison Window Works Lunch and Learn Recording Here

]]> 4467 1131: Thom Filicia: The Sentence That Built a Multi-Faceted Design Brand Today with Thom Filicia Today, I’m joined by one of the most recognizable names in design, Thom Filicia. From his early days at Parrish-Hadley to his breakout role on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, to building a thriving design firm, product collections, a retail brand, and countless collaborations, Thom has continually expanded what it means to be a designer. In this conversation, Thom shares why knowing who you are as a designer is the foundation for everything else, how staying curious and saying yes to new opportunities has shaped his career, and why great design is more than creating a beautiful room — it’s about creating spaces people truly want to live in. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow beyond projects into partnerships, products, and a lasting brand while staying authentic to your design voice, you won’t want to miss this episode. LuAnn Nigara and Thom Filicia ’s Ah-Ha Moments “It’s not just about creating a beautiful space, because creating a beautiful space is sort of the low-hanging fruit. We can all make something look beautiful, but making it make sense for the people that live there… that’s great design. Because at the end of the day, design is for people.” - Thom “Don’t not like something before you even understand what it is. Know you first, stay open second, and try to have some facts.” - Thom “Sometimes you just have a minute to say what you do. You don’t have ten.” - LuAnn “Take what you do seriously, but for the love of God, do not take yourself seriously… Take what you do seriously and be really passionate and good at what you do, no matter what it is.” - Thom Connect with Thom Filicia Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #67: Alan Tanksley- Lessons and Observations from a 30+ Year Career in Interior Design AWDB #407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Thom Filicia Today, I’m joined by one of the most recognizable names in design, Thom Filicia. From his early days at Parrish-Hadley to his breakout role on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, to building a thriving design firm, product collections, a retail brand, and countless collaborations, Thom has continually expanded what it means to be a designer. In this conversation, Thom shares why knowing who you are as a designer is the foundation for everything else, how staying curious and saying yes to new opportunities has shaped his career, and why great design is more than creating a beautiful room — it’s about creating spaces people truly want to live in. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow beyond projects into partnerships, products, and a lasting brand while staying authentic to your design voice, you won’t want to miss this episode. LuAnn Nigara and Thom Filicia ’s Ah-Ha Moments “It’s not just about creating a beautiful space, because creating a beautiful space is sort of the low-hanging fruit. We can all make something look beautiful, but making it make sense for the people that live there… that’s great design. Because at the end of the day, design is for people.” - Thom “Don’t not like something before you even understand what it is. Know you first, stay open second, and try to have some facts.” - Thom “Sometimes you just have a minute to say what you do. You don’t have ten.” - LuAnn “Take what you do seriously, but for the love of God, do not take yourself seriously… Take what you do seriously and be really passionate and good at what you do, no matter what it is.” - Thom Connect with Thom Filicia Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #67: Alan Tanksley- Lessons and Observations from a 30+ Year Career in Interior Design AWDB #407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 Today with Thom Filicia

Today, I’m joined by one of the most recognizable names in design, Thom Filicia. From his early days at Parrish-Hadley to his breakout role on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, to building a thriving design firm, product collections, a retail brand, and countless collaborations, Thom has continually expanded what it means to be a designer.

In this conversation, Thom shares why knowing who you are as a designer is the foundation for everything else, how staying curious and saying yes to new opportunities has shaped his career, and why great design is more than creating a beautiful room — it’s about creating spaces people truly want to live in.

If you’ve ever wondered how to grow beyond projects into partnerships, products, and a lasting brand while staying authentic to your design voice, you won’t want to miss this episode.


LuAnn Nigara and Thom Filicia ’s Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s not just about creating a beautiful space, because creating a beautiful space is sort of the low-hanging fruit. We can all make something look beautiful, but making it make sense for the people that live there… that’s great design. Because at the end of the day, design is for people.” - Thom

“Don’t not like something before you even understand what it is. Know you first, stay open second, and try to have some facts.” - Thom

“Sometimes you just have a minute to say what you do. You don’t have ten.” - LuAnn

“Take what you do seriously, but for the love of God, do not take yourself seriously… Take what you do seriously and be really passionate and good at what you do, no matter what it is.” - Thom


Connect with Thom Filicia

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #67: Alan Tanksley- Lessons and Observations from a 30+ Year Career in Interior Design

AWDB #407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019


]]> 4584 1130: Jen Davidson: Running an Interior Design Business, or Just Working at One You Happen to Own? Today with Jen Davidson Today on A Well Designed Business, Jen Davidson shares the pivotal conversation that transformed her five-year-old interior design firm from successful but struggling to truly thriving. After meeting Jude Charles at a design retreat, Jen realized she'd been "living as an interior designer" instead of "living as a business owner and boss." This insight sparked a year-long transformation that included clarifying her core values, rebuilding her team around a culture of trust, and understanding that her company's pillars aren't people—they're processes, values, and mission. Jen walks us through the hard work of defining what her company stands for, how she got her team aligned around those values, and why she had to let some people go to create the foundation she needed. She also opens up about her docuseries experience with Jude and how documenting her credibility became a powerful tool for both personal growth and business development. If you've been running your design business but feel like something's missing, or you've been avoiding the foundational work of mission, vision, and values, this conversation offers a roadmap for stepping fully into your role as CEO. LuAnn Nigara and Jen Davidson’s Ah-Ha Moments  "You're not believing that you are the boss. You're living as an interior designer. You're not living as a business owner, the boss. And that right there stopped me in my tracks." - Jennifer Davidson More About Jen Davidson Jen Davidson is the founder and lead designer of Interiors by Jen Davidson (IJD), a high-end residential design firm specializing in luxury renovations, new builds, and curated furnishing selections. With a career rooted in creativity and an unwavering passion for transforming spaces, Jen’s journey into interior design was anything but conventional. Jen’s approach to design is deeply rooted in storytelling. She believes that every home tells a unique story, and her job is to help write that narrative through thoughtful design. She places high importance on clear communication with clients and collaborators, ensuring that each project feels like a shared vision. As she continues to grow her business, Jen is focused on helping other designers level up by embracing courage, clear boundaries, and empathy. Her work with industry professionals like Jude Charles on a docuseries highlights her belief in the power of storytelling and transparency. Today, Jen is passionate about sharing her experience and insights with others, hoping to inspire those in the design world to take their own leaps of faith and trust the process. Connect with Jen Davidson Website Instagram ShopLTK Pinterest YouTube Houzz Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB 790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB 516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand AWDB 626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design AWDB 718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos AWDB 724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals AWDB 1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! AWDB 811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Fri, 10 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 Jen Davidson: Running an Interior Design Business, or Just Working at One You Happen to Own? full 1130 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jen Davidson Today on A Well Designed Business, Jen Davidson shares the pivotal conversation that transformed her five-year-old interior design firm from successful but struggling to truly thriving. After meeting Jude Charles at a design retreat, Jen realized she'd been "living as an interior designer" instead of "living as a business owner and boss." This insight sparked a year-long transformation that included clarifying her core values, rebuilding her team around a culture of trust, and understanding that her company's pillars aren't people—they're processes, values, and mission. Jen walks us through the hard work of defining what her company stands for, how she got her team aligned around those values, and why she had to let some people go to create the foundation she needed. She also opens up about her docuseries experience with Jude and how documenting her credibility became a powerful tool for both personal growth and business development. If you've been running your design business but feel like something's missing, or you've been avoiding the foundational work of mission, vision, and values, this conversation offers a roadmap for stepping fully into your role as CEO. LuAnn Nigara and Jen Davidson’s Ah-Ha Moments  "You're not believing that you are the boss. You're living as an interior designer. You're not living as a business owner, the boss. And that right there stopped me in my tracks." - Jennifer Davidson More About Jen Davidson Jen Davidson is the founder and lead designer of Interiors by Jen Davidson (IJD), a high-end residential design firm specializing in luxury renovations, new builds, and curated furnishing selections. With a career rooted in creativity and an unwavering passion for transforming spaces, Jen’s journey into interior design was anything but conventional. Jen’s approach to design is deeply rooted in storytelling. She believes that every home tells a unique story, and her job is to help write that narrative through thoughtful design. She places high importance on clear communication with clients and collaborators, ensuring that each project feels like a shared vision. As she continues to grow her business, Jen is focused on helping other designers level up by embracing courage, clear boundaries, and empathy. Her work with industry professionals like Jude Charles on a docuseries highlights her belief in the power of storytelling and transparency. Today, Jen is passionate about sharing her experience and insights with others, hoping to inspire those in the design world to take their own leaps of faith and trust the process. Connect with Jen Davidson Website Instagram ShopLTK Pinterest YouTube Houzz Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB 790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB 516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand AWDB 626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design AWDB 718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos AWDB 724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals AWDB 1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! AWDB 811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Today with Jen Davidson Today on A Well Designed Business, Jen Davidson shares the pivotal conversation that transformed her five-year-old interior design firm from successful but struggling to truly thriving. After meeting Jude Charles at a design retreat, Jen realized she'd been "living as an interior designer" instead of "living as a business owner and boss." This insight sparked a year-long transformation that included clarifying her core values, rebuilding her team around a culture of trust, and understanding that her company's pillars aren't people—they're processes, values, and mission. Jen walks us through the hard work of defining what her company stands for, how she got her team aligned around those values, and why she had to let some people go to create the foundation she needed. She also opens up about her docuseries experience with Jude and how documenting her credibility became a powerful tool for both personal growth and business development. If you've been running your design business but feel like something's missing, or you've been avoiding the foundational work of mission, vision, and values, this conversation offers a roadmap for stepping fully into your role as CEO.

LuAnn Nigara and Jen Davidson’s Ah-Ha Moments

 "You're not believing that you are the boss. You're living as an interior designer. You're not living as a business owner, the boss. And that right there stopped me in my tracks." - Jennifer Davidson More About Jen Davidson Jen Davidson is the founder and lead designer of Interiors by Jen Davidson (IJD), a high-end residential design firm specializing in luxury renovations, new builds, and curated furnishing selections. With a career rooted in creativity and an unwavering passion for transforming spaces, Jen’s journey into interior design was anything but conventional.

Jen’s approach to design is deeply rooted in storytelling. She believes that every home tells a unique story, and her job is to help write that narrative through thoughtful design. She places high importance on clear communication with clients and collaborators, ensuring that each project feels like a shared vision.

As she continues to grow her business, Jen is focused on helping other designers level up by embracing courage, clear boundaries, and empathy. Her work with industry professionals like Jude Charles on a docuseries highlights her belief in the power of storytelling and transparency.

Today, Jen is passionate about sharing her experience and insights with others, hoping to inspire those in the design world to take their own leaps of faith and trust the process.


Connect with Jen Davidson

Website

Instagram

ShopLTK

Pinterest

YouTube

Houzz


Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years!

AWDB 790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

AWDB 516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

AWDB 626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

AWDB 718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos AWDB 724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals AWDB 1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

AWDB 811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 3735 no 1129: BEST OF SHOW: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes Today with Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients. Pick it apart: [2:19] Katie shares why she’s so passionate about the client experience and why it’s so important for designers.  [9:13] Katie explains how she helps clients uncover their processes—even if they haven’t formally defined them.  [16:24] LuAnn and Katie dive into what the client experience actually entails.  [25:49] Katie discusses how the backend of the business shapes the client experience.  [46:30] Katie talks about the common hangups she sees with her client’s processes.  LuAnn and Katie McFarlan’s Ah-Ha moments: “Every time there’s a new delay or a new charge, if you have already set the expectation of ‘Hey, this is what’s going to happen, I’m going to be there with you every step of the way,’ it allows the client to just enjoy it rather than be terrified the entire time. I think having the client experience nailed down is so key for businesses that have a long deliverable or lead time for delivering their final service.” -Katie McFarlan   “The ROI is not just that it benefits your clients, but also that it shows just how much your company is doing for them, and that speaks to the value and how you’re charging what you charge.” -Katie McFarlan   “You’re not necessarily imposing a process or a system on any one business. You’re taking the existing processes and systems (whether they are formalized or not), whatever individual process a firm might have, and you’re analyzing it and saying, ‘How do we announce, describe, explain, or give collateral information on that phase so that the customer feels informed and cared for.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I think the biggest takeaway that I have is that the client experience is everything you do, not just a thank you note. So often we throw the word “client experience” around when we’re talking about the subtleties and the niceness and the pretty that we bring to the relationships, but a really terrific client experience is one where the process feels organized and systemized, and the client understands their role in it and can know what’s coming next and see what it is that you’re doing on their behalf the whole time.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way. Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most. Connect with Katie McFarlan: Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients. Pick it apart: [2:19] Katie shares why she’s so passionate about the client experience and why it’s so important for designers.  [9:13] Katie explains how she helps clients uncover their processes—even if they haven’t formally defined them.  [16:24] LuAnn and Katie dive into what the client experience actually entails.  [25:49] Katie discusses how the backend of the business shapes the client experience.  [46:30] Katie talks about the common hangups she sees with her client’s processes.  LuAnn and Katie McFarlan’s Ah-Ha moments: “Every time there’s a new delay or a new charge, if you have already set the expectation of ‘Hey, this is what’s going to happen, I’m going to be there with you every step of the way,’ it allows the client to just enjoy it rather than be terrified the entire time. I think having the client experience nailed down is so key for businesses that have a long deliverable or lead time for delivering their final service.” -Katie McFarlan   “The ROI is not just that it benefits your clients, but also that it shows just how much your company is doing for them, and that speaks to the value and how you’re charging what you charge.” -Katie McFarlan   “You’re not necessarily imposing a process or a system on any one business. You’re taking the existing processes and systems (whether they are formalized or not), whatever individual process a firm might have, and you’re analyzing it and saying, ‘How do we announce, describe, explain, or give collateral information on that phase so that the customer feels informed and cared for.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I think the biggest takeaway that I have is that the client experience is everything you do, not just a thank you note. So often we throw the word “client experience” around when we’re talking about the subtleties and the niceness and the pretty that we bring to the relationships, but a really terrific client experience is one where the process feels organized and systemized, and the client understands their role in it and can know what’s coming next and see what it is that you’re doing on their behalf the whole time.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way. Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most. Connect with Katie McFarlan: Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Today with Katie McFarlan:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients.


Pick it apart:

  • [2:19] Katie shares why she’s so passionate about the client experience and why it’s so important for designers. 

    [9:13] Katie explains how she helps clients uncover their processes—even if they haven’t formally defined them. 

    [16:24] LuAnn and Katie dive into what the client experience actually entails. 

    [25:49] Katie discusses how the backend of the business shapes the client experience. 

    [46:30] Katie talks about the common hangups she sees with her client’s processes. 

LuAnn and Katie McFarlan’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Every time there’s a new delay or a new charge, if you have already set the expectation of ‘Hey, this is what’s going to happen, I’m going to be there with you every step of the way,’ it allows the client to just enjoy it rather than be terrified the entire time. I think having the client experience nailed down is so key for businesses that have a long deliverable or lead time for delivering their final service.” -Katie McFarlan

 

“The ROI is not just that it benefits your clients, but also that it shows just how much your company is doing for them, and that speaks to the value and how you’re charging what you charge.” -Katie McFarlan

 

“You’re not necessarily imposing a process or a system on any one business. You’re taking the existing processes and systems (whether they are formalized or not), whatever individual process a firm might have, and you’re analyzing it and saying, ‘How do we announce, describe, explain, or give collateral information on that phase so that the customer feels informed and cared for.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I think the biggest takeaway that I have is that the client experience is everything you do, not just a thank you note. So often we throw the word “client experience” around when we’re talking about the subtleties and the niceness and the pretty that we bring to the relationships, but a really terrific client experience is one where the process feels organized and systemized, and the client understands their role in it and can know what’s coming next and see what it is that you’re doing on their behalf the whole time.” -LuAnn Nigara


More About Katie McFarlan:

As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way.

Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most.


Connect with Katie McFarlan:

Website

Instagram  

Blog

Client Experience Download for listeners


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Other shows mentioned:

#616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients

]]> 4161 1128: Barclay Butera:The Business Behind the Legacy Today with Barclay Butera Sometimes on the show we are fortunate enough to speak with true icons of our day. And today, I am excited to chat with one of those designers—the legendary Barclay Butera. Today Barclay is back on the show to talk about the big picture, from the story of his first big break at a celebrity show house, the lessons he learned from scaling his business up to over 100 employees and then consciously scaling it back down. More About Barclay Butera Since 1994, Barclay Butera has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm and flagship showroom in Newport Beach, California. His success in Newport prompted him to establish a second location in the exclusive enclave of Park City, Utah. Renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous, chic interiors, Butera draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences including high-fashion runways, his extensive world travels, grand European architecture and the timeless allure of The Golden Age of Hollywood. Butera’s design signature is distinctive: classic with a fresh twist, seamlessly integrating traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles. His artful inclusion of heritage pieces blends effortlessly with distinctive furnishings, pattern-on-pattern fabrics, and bold textures—all hallmarks of his iconic all-American style. Over the past three decades, Butera’s passion for interior design has evolved into an impressive lifestyle enterprise, sought after worldwide. A landmark achievement in Butera's career came with the release of his “Yacht on Wheels” edition of the Rolls-Royce Dawn at the internationally renowned Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, CA. As the first interior designer in the 100+ year history of the iconic brand to collaborate on such a project, Butera crafted a stunning luxury convertible featuring crisp white and navy tones with teak and nautical accents, setting the automotive industry abuzz. In addition to his thriving interior design business, Butera’s venture into licensing has landed him an unprecedented number of the industry’s most respected partners including: Lexington Home Brands furniture, Kravet indoor and outdoor textiles and carpets, Leftbank Art, Eastern Accents bedding and luxury down, Jaipur Living rugs, Bradburn lighting, Mirror Home decorative mirrors, Napa Home & Garden accessories, Castelle outdoor furniture, Winfield Thybony wallcoverings, and YORK/MDC Interior Solutions commercial wallcoverings. Expanding his licensing empire, Butera launched a collection of luxury chandeliers and sconces with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting and hand painted porcelain with Legend Accents for his new Barclay Butera Couture brand. Most recently, Butera introduced his eighth furniture collection, Montecito, with industry powerhouse Lexington Home Brands. A designer for the ages, Butera’s spectacular projects, extensive licensing collections, and luxury rental properties are regularly featured in global consumer publications, as well as shelter and lifestyle magazines. Connect with Barclay Butera ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Listen to Barclay’s Keynote presentation at ⁠Design Edge Orange County (Sept 18th)⁠ Grand Re-Opening of their Park City Design Firm/Showroom (Sept 25th) ⁠Design Biz Retreat (Oct 6th & 7th)⁠ ⁠High Point Market (Fall 2025)⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠! ⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠ ⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠ Other Shows Mentioned: ⁠AWDB #122 Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business⁠ ⁠AWDB #507 Barclay Butera 25 Years of Beautiful Design⁠ AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design ⁠AWDB #1002 Power Talk Friday:Sara Kravet: VP Furniture at Kravet Inc.⁠⁠AWDB Scott Kravet⁠ Fri, 03 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Barclay Butera Sometimes on the show we are fortunate enough to speak with true icons of our day. And today, I am excited to chat with one of those designers—the legendary Barclay Butera. Today Barclay is back on the show to talk about the big picture, from the story of his first big break at a celebrity show house, the lessons he learned from scaling his business up to over 100 employees and then consciously scaling it back down. More About Barclay Butera Since 1994, Barclay Butera has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm and flagship showroom in Newport Beach, California. His success in Newport prompted him to establish a second location in the exclusive enclave of Park City, Utah. Renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous, chic interiors, Butera draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences including high-fashion runways, his extensive world travels, grand European architecture and the timeless allure of The Golden Age of Hollywood. Butera’s design signature is distinctive: classic with a fresh twist, seamlessly integrating traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles. His artful inclusion of heritage pieces blends effortlessly with distinctive furnishings, pattern-on-pattern fabrics, and bold textures—all hallmarks of his iconic all-American style. Over the past three decades, Butera’s passion for interior design has evolved into an impressive lifestyle enterprise, sought after worldwide. A landmark achievement in Butera's career came with the release of his “Yacht on Wheels” edition of the Rolls-Royce Dawn at the internationally renowned Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, CA. As the first interior designer in the 100+ year history of the iconic brand to collaborate on such a project, Butera crafted a stunning luxury convertible featuring crisp white and navy tones with teak and nautical accents, setting the automotive industry abuzz. In addition to his thriving interior design business, Butera’s venture into licensing has landed him an unprecedented number of the industry’s most respected partners including: Lexington Home Brands furniture, Kravet indoor and outdoor textiles and carpets, Leftbank Art, Eastern Accents bedding and luxury down, Jaipur Living rugs, Bradburn lighting, Mirror Home decorative mirrors, Napa Home & Garden accessories, Castelle outdoor furniture, Winfield Thybony wallcoverings, and YORK/MDC Interior Solutions commercial wallcoverings. Expanding his licensing empire, Butera launched a collection of luxury chandeliers and sconces with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting and hand painted porcelain with Legend Accents for his new Barclay Butera Couture brand. Most recently, Butera introduced his eighth furniture collection, Montecito, with industry powerhouse Lexington Home Brands. A designer for the ages, Butera’s spectacular projects, extensive licensing collections, and luxury rental properties are regularly featured in global consumer publications, as well as shelter and lifestyle magazines. Connect with Barclay Butera ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Listen to Barclay’s Keynote presentation at ⁠Design Edge Orange County (Sept 18th)⁠ Grand Re-Opening of their Park City Design Firm/Showroom (Sept 25th) ⁠Design Biz Retreat (Oct 6th & 7th)⁠ ⁠High Point Market (Fall 2025)⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠! ⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠ ⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠ Other Shows Mentioned: ⁠AWDB #122 Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business⁠ ⁠AWDB #507 Barclay Butera 25 Years of Beautiful Design⁠ AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design ⁠AWDB #1002 Power Talk Friday:Sara Kravet: VP Furniture at Kravet Inc.⁠⁠AWDB Scott Kravet⁠ Today with Barclay Butera

Sometimes on the show we are fortunate enough to speak with true icons of our day. And today, I am excited to chat with one of those designers—the legendary Barclay Butera. Today Barclay is back on the show to talk about the big picture, from the story of his first big break at a celebrity show house, the lessons he learned from scaling his business up to over 100 employees and then consciously scaling it back down.


More About Barclay Butera

Since 1994, Barclay Butera has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm and flagship showroom in Newport Beach, California. His success in Newport prompted him to establish a second location in the exclusive enclave of Park City, Utah.

Renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous, chic interiors, Butera draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences including high-fashion runways, his extensive world travels, grand European architecture and the timeless allure of The Golden Age of Hollywood.

Butera’s design signature is distinctive: classic with a fresh twist, seamlessly integrating traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles. His artful inclusion of heritage pieces blends effortlessly with distinctive furnishings, pattern-on-pattern fabrics, and bold textures—all hallmarks of his iconic all-American style. Over the past three decades, Butera’s passion for interior design has evolved into an impressive lifestyle enterprise, sought after worldwide.

A landmark achievement in Butera's career came with the release of his “Yacht on Wheels” edition of the Rolls-Royce Dawn at the internationally renowned Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, CA. As the first interior designer in the 100+ year history of the iconic brand to collaborate on such a project, Butera crafted a stunning luxury convertible featuring crisp white and navy tones with teak and nautical accents, setting the automotive industry abuzz.

In addition to his thriving interior design business, Butera’s venture into licensing has landed him an unprecedented number of the industry’s most respected partners including: Lexington Home Brands furniture, Kravet indoor and outdoor textiles and carpets, Leftbank Art, Eastern Accents bedding and luxury down, Jaipur Living rugs, Bradburn lighting, Mirror Home decorative mirrors, Napa Home & Garden accessories, Castelle outdoor furniture, Winfield Thybony wallcoverings, and YORK/MDC Interior Solutions commercial wallcoverings.

Expanding his licensing empire, Butera launched a collection of luxury chandeliers and sconces with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting and hand painted porcelain with Legend Accents for his new Barclay Butera Couture brand.

Most recently, Butera introduced his eighth furniture collection, Montecito, with industry powerhouse Lexington Home Brands. A designer for the ages, Butera’s spectacular projects, extensive licensing collections, and luxury rental properties are regularly featured in global consumer publications, as well as shelter and lifestyle magazines.


Connect with Barclay Butera

⁠Website⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

Listen to Barclay’s Keynote presentation at ⁠Design Edge Orange County (Sept 18th)⁠

Grand Re-Opening of their Park City Design Firm/Showroom (Sept 25th)

⁠Design Biz Retreat (Oct 6th & 7th)⁠

⁠High Point Market (Fall 2025)⁠


⁠⁠⁠Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠!

⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠

⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠


Other Shows Mentioned:

⁠AWDB #122 Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business⁠

⁠AWDB #507 Barclay Butera 25 Years of Beautiful Design⁠

AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design

⁠AWDB #1002 Power Talk Friday:Sara Kravet: VP Furniture at Kravet Inc.⁠⁠AWDB Scott Kravet⁠

]]> 3477 1127: Sponsored Show: Dezign Assist: The Smartest Way to Buy Back Time in Your Interior Design Firm Today with Reed Humphrey of Dezign Assist Is your team maxed out, or are you stuck doing $10-an-hour tasks when you should be focused on leading your business? In today’s sponsored episode, I’m talking with Reed Humphrey, CEO of Alder & Tweed Interior Design and founder of Dezign Assist, a remote staffing company built specifically for interior designers. Reed created Dezign Assist after solving a bottleneck in his own firm. When his team couldn’t keep up with project demands, he built a scalable system using experienced remote designers. The result? More capacity, less burnout, and happier clients. If you’re a larger firm looking to support your in-house team or a solo designer ready to stop doing it all yourself, this episode will challenge how you think about delegation and show you how to buy back your time without sacrificing quality. What’s new with Reed Humphrey Website Instagram Book A Discovery Call! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #194 Reed Humphrey Alder and Tweed Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Reed Humphrey of Dezign Assist Is your team maxed out, or are you stuck doing $10-an-hour tasks when you should be focused on leading your business? In today’s sponsored episode, I’m talking with Reed Humphrey, CEO of Alder & Tweed Interior Design and founder of Dezign Assist, a remote staffing company built specifically for interior designers. Reed created Dezign Assist after solving a bottleneck in his own firm. When his team couldn’t keep up with project demands, he built a scalable system using experienced remote designers. The result? More capacity, less burnout, and happier clients. If you’re a larger firm looking to support your in-house team or a solo designer ready to stop doing it all yourself, this episode will challenge how you think about delegation and show you how to buy back your time without sacrificing quality. What’s new with Reed Humphrey Website Instagram Book A Discovery Call! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources Mentioned: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #194 Reed Humphrey Alder and Tweed Today with Reed Humphrey of Dezign Assist

Is your team maxed out, or are you stuck doing $10-an-hour tasks when you should be focused on leading your business?

In today’s sponsored episode, I’m talking with Reed Humphrey, CEO of Alder & Tweed Interior Design and founder of Dezign Assist, a remote staffing company built specifically for interior designers.

Reed created Dezign Assist after solving a bottleneck in his own firm. When his team couldn’t keep up with project demands, he built a scalable system using experienced remote designers. The result? More capacity, less burnout, and happier clients.

If you’re a larger firm looking to support your in-house team or a solo designer ready to stop doing it all yourself, this episode will challenge how you think about delegation and show you how to buy back your time without sacrificing quality.

What’s new with Reed Humphrey

Website

Instagram

Book A Discovery Call!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠https://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠.

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠

Other Resources Mentioned:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #194 Reed Humphrey Alder and Tweed

]]> 3683 1126: Nicole Heymer: Rethink SEO for ChatGPT and Google AI Today with Nicole Heymer Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that's changing how potential clients find interior designers. We're living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google's AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you're getting most of your business from referrals or you're heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments “We are at a moment in history where all online search at this point is evolving into AI based stuff. It is different and a big moment in history.” - Nicole Heymer More About Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique marketing agency specializing in branding, websites, automation, and SEO for interior design firms, builders, and architects. Since 2011, Nicole's clear, practical take on branding and digital marketing has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from Business of Home to the Design Influencer's Conference. You’ll find her methods in print, on podcasts, and in design school classrooms. Inquire about services at gloryandbrand.com/contact Connect with Nicole Heymer Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn NigaraLuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #125- Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #466- Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #1087- Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen Fri, 26 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Nicole Heymer Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that's changing how potential clients find interior designers. We're living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google's AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you're getting most of your business from referrals or you're heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments “We are at a moment in history where all online search at this point is evolving into AI based stuff. It is different and a big moment in history.” - Nicole Heymer More About Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique marketing agency specializing in branding, websites, automation, and SEO for interior design firms, builders, and architects. Since 2011, Nicole's clear, practical take on branding and digital marketing has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from Business of Home to the Design Influencer's Conference. You’ll find her methods in print, on podcasts, and in design school classrooms. Inquire about services at gloryandbrand.com/contact Connect with Nicole Heymer Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn NigaraLuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #125- Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #466- Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #1087- Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen Today with Nicole Heymer

Today on A Well Designed Business, Nicole Heymer returns to discuss the massive shift happening in online search that's changing how potential clients find interior designers. We're living through a pivotal moment where traditional Google searches are being replaced by AI-powered recommendations from ChatGPT, Google's AI mode, and other large language models. Nicole explains why your website information is now being summarized and served directly to searchers, what this means for how you need to structure your content, and the specific steps you can take to ensure AI systems recommend you. From testing your own search results to prioritizing Google reviews in new ways, this conversation covers the practical strategies designers need to implement right now to stay visible in an AI-driven search landscape. Whether you're getting most of your business from referrals or you're heavily invested in SEO, this shift affects everyone, and the designers who adapt early will have a significant competitive advantage.

LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments

“We are at a moment in history where all online search at this point is evolving into AI based stuff. It is different and a big moment in history.” - Nicole Heymer More About Nicole Heymer

Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique marketing agency specializing in branding, websites, automation, and SEO for interior design firms, builders, and architects. Since 2011, Nicole's clear, practical take on branding and digital marketing has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from Business of Home to the Design Influencer's Conference. You’ll find her methods in print, on podcasts, and in design school classrooms.

Inquire about services at gloryandbrand.com/contact Connect with Nicole Heymer

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn



What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#125- Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

#466- Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#1087- Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

]]> 4129 1125: Kimberly Horton: How to Turn Client Frustrations Into Smart Business Moves Today with Kimberly Horton Welcome! Today we’re talking about how to turn client frustrations into actionable change. Kimberly shares the simple but powerful tool she uses — the Frustration Tracker — to capture issues in real time, identify patterns, and make smart adjustments to her processes. From tightening contracts to setting clearer boundaries, Kimberly shows how documenting frustrations can lead to stronger systems, better client experiences, and a more profitable business. Plus, she’s sharing her Frustration Tracker template so you can start using it in your own firm.  Ah-Ha moments “If you're feeling that frustration, nine out of ten times, your client is feeling it too.” - Kimberly Horton “You’ve got to treat your process like a living document that evolves with every lesson you learn.” - Kimberly Horton “It’s not about complaining for the sake of complaining. It’s about learning from the complaint, analyzing it, and turning it into actionable change.” - LuAnn Nigara “We always say: work on your business, not just in it. And this is a living, breathing example of that.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Kimberly Horton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower AWDB 892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes AWDB 1050: Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Kimberly Horton Welcome! Today we’re talking about how to turn client frustrations into actionable change. Kimberly shares the simple but powerful tool she uses — the Frustration Tracker — to capture issues in real time, identify patterns, and make smart adjustments to her processes. From tightening contracts to setting clearer boundaries, Kimberly shows how documenting frustrations can lead to stronger systems, better client experiences, and a more profitable business. Plus, she’s sharing her Frustration Tracker template so you can start using it in your own firm.  Ah-Ha moments “If you're feeling that frustration, nine out of ten times, your client is feeling it too.” - Kimberly Horton “You’ve got to treat your process like a living document that evolves with every lesson you learn.” - Kimberly Horton “It’s not about complaining for the sake of complaining. It’s about learning from the complaint, analyzing it, and turning it into actionable change.” - LuAnn Nigara “We always say: work on your business, not just in it. And this is a living, breathing example of that.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Kimberly Horton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! https://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies!For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower AWDB 892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes AWDB 1050: Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker Today with Kimberly Horton

Welcome! Today we’re talking about how to turn client frustrations into actionable change. Kimberly shares the simple but powerful tool she uses — the Frustration Tracker — to capture issues in real time, identify patterns, and make smart adjustments to her processes. From tightening contracts to setting clearer boundaries, Kimberly shows how documenting frustrations can lead to stronger systems, better client experiences, and a more profitable business. Plus, she’s sharing her Frustration Tracker template so you can start using it in your own firm. 


Ah-Ha moments

“If you're feeling that frustration, nine out of ten times, your client is feeling it too.” - Kimberly Horton

“You’ve got to treat your process like a living document that evolves with every lesson you learn.” - Kimberly Horton

“It’s not about complaining for the sake of complaining. It’s about learning from the complaint, analyzing it, and turning it into actionable change.” - LuAnn Nigara

“We always say: work on your business, not just in it. And this is a living, breathing example of that.” - LuAnn Nigara


Connect with Kimberly Horton

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower

AWDB 892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes

AWDB 1050: Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker

]]> 5452 1124: BEST OF SHOW: Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story Today With Megan Molten: Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it’s changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan’s story. Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today’s episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she’s applied them. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job. It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan. One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer. Starting afresh, both professionally and personally. Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot. Do what you do best, and outsource the rest. Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made. E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work. Using the services of a purchasing agent. Having conversations and making connections. The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes. More About Megan Molten: Megan’s love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan’s designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new “hobby” she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can’t wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Links: Website: Megan Molten Shop: Megan Molten Shop Instagram: Megan Molten Facebook: Megan Molten Pinterest: Megan Molten Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten Other Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236 Cheryl Luckett – Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397 Fri, 19 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Megan Molten: Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it’s changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan’s story. Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today’s episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she’s applied them. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job. It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan. One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer. Starting afresh, both professionally and personally. Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot. Do what you do best, and outsource the rest. Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made. E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work. Using the services of a purchasing agent. Having conversations and making connections. The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes. More About Megan Molten: Megan’s love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan’s designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new “hobby” she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can’t wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Links: Website: Megan Molten Shop: Megan Molten Shop Instagram: Megan Molten Facebook: Megan Molten Pinterest: Megan Molten Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten Other Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236 Cheryl Luckett – Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397 Today With Megan Molten:

Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it’s changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan’s story.

Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today’s episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she’s applied them. Tune in now, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job.
  • It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan.
  • One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer.
  • Starting afresh, both professionally and personally.
  • Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot.
  • Do what you do best, and outsource the rest.
  • Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made.
  • E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work.
  • Using the services of a purchasing agent.
  • Having conversations and making connections.
  • The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes.

More About Megan Molten:

Megan’s love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan’s designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new “hobby” she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can’t wait to continue to watch her big dream grow!

Links:

Website: Megan Molten

Shop: Megan Molten Shop

Instagram: Megan Molten

Facebook: Megan Molten

Pinterest: Megan Molten

Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten

Other Shows Mentioned:

Shea McGee #236

Cheryl Luckett – Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397

]]> 5125 no 1123: Ali Faulkner: What to Do When a Client Says “No”: Lessons from a Lost Design Proposal Today with Ali Faulkner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We’ve talked before about conducting an autopsy of a project—looking back and figuring out exactly what went right, what went wrong, and where to improve.  But what about conducting an autopsy of projects that you didn’t win? My guest today, Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors, lost several bids in a row, and decided to make a big change; she reached out to those potential clients and asked for feedback afterward.  Ali is sharing the exact questions she asked and how they changed everything for her business.  Ah-Ha Moments “I realized I was chasing what everyone else wanted to chase rather than what I actually needed to be profitable and continue to build my business.” -Ali "You get a quote to do a roof. One guy is 20K, one guy is 30K and the other guy is 35. Like I'm sorry, who's even thinking about the 20K guy? You're just like, you're off the list, right? Because... you automatically distrust the 20." - LuAnn  A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revelwoods Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #768 Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester AWDB #790 Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions #803 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #856 Enrique Crespo: Describing His Type-A Personality Mindset AWDB #1059 Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry Other Resources: https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/podcast https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/podcast-for-interior-designers/ https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreat-registration/ https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/2025-community-summit This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:10:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Ali Faulkner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We’ve talked before about conducting an autopsy of a project—looking back and figuring out exactly what went right, what went wrong, and where to improve.  But what about conducting an autopsy of projects that you didn’t win? My guest today, Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors, lost several bids in a row, and decided to make a big change; she reached out to those potential clients and asked for feedback afterward.  Ali is sharing the exact questions she asked and how they changed everything for her business.  Ah-Ha Moments “I realized I was chasing what everyone else wanted to chase rather than what I actually needed to be profitable and continue to build my business.” -Ali "You get a quote to do a roof. One guy is 20K, one guy is 30K and the other guy is 35. Like I'm sorry, who's even thinking about the 20K guy? You're just like, you're off the list, right? Because... you automatically distrust the 20." - LuAnn  A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revelwoods Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #768 Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester AWDB #790 Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions #803 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #856 Enrique Crespo: Describing His Type-A Personality Mindset AWDB #1059 Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry Other Resources: https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/podcast https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/podcast-for-interior-designers/ https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreat-registration/ https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/2025-community-summit This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Today with Ali Faulkner

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We’ve talked before about conducting an autopsy of a project—looking back and figuring out exactly what went right, what went wrong, and where to improve. 

But what about conducting an autopsy of projects that you didn’t win? My guest today, Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors, lost several bids in a row, and decided to make a big change; she reached out to those potential clients and asked for feedback afterward. 

Ali is sharing the exact questions she asked and how they changed everything for her business. 


Ah-Ha Moments

“I realized I was chasing what everyone else wanted to chase rather than what I actually needed to be profitable and continue to build my business.” -Ali

"You get a quote to do a roof. One guy is 20K, one guy is 30K and the other guy is 35. Like I'm sorry, who's even thinking about the 20K guy? You're just like, you're off the list, right? Because... you automatically distrust the 20." - LuAnn 


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revelwoods


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #768 Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester

AWDB #790 Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

#803 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #856 Enrique Crespo: Describing His Type-A Personality Mindset

AWDB #1059 Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry


Other Resources:

https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/podcast

https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/podcast-for-interior-designers/

https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreat-registration/

https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/2025-community-summit

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design


]]> 4607 1122: New Show: Chelsea Viau: Add Pattern (and Profit) to Your World Today With Chelsea Viau: Today with Chelsea Viau of Chelsea Lane & Company, we’re talking about the numbers behind your wallpaper—and why they matter more than you might think. Chelsea shares what every designer needs to know before sourcing wallcoverings, including the costly mistakes that can derail your budget, timeline, and client trust. We also dig into vendor relationships, client education, and the importance of working with experts who protect your process and your profit. Whether you love wallpaper or avoid it entirely, this episode is a reminder that every detail counts in a well-designed business. LuAnn Nigara and Chelsea Viau’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Designers are not wallpaper experts. That’s where we come in.” - Chelsea “If your numbers are off, that’s on you. The vendor didn’t tell you to order the wrong quantity.” - LuAnn More About Chelsea Viau Chelsea Lane & Company is an interior design showroom and home decor boutique, specializing in the sale of wallpaper and textiles. The showroom caters to homeowners, designers, and builders. Owner, Chelsea Lane, has over 20 years of experience in the wallpaper industry and her knowledge and expertise has been shared with her staff through extensive training. The shop, which has been open since 2010, is home to a curated collection of home decor, furniture and lighting, as well as features the largest wallpaper library in Palm Beach County, open to the public. Chelsea Lane has a robust virtual showroom program where clients can have access to the top Palm Beach design house from anywhere in the world! Connect with Chelsea Viau Website Instagram Facebook Houzz Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Interior Design Society⁠ (IDS) Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠! Other Shows: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #1097: NEW SHOW: Margalit Lankry: Designers with Intention. A Community with a Collaborative, Abundance Mindset Fri, 12 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Chelsea Viau: Today with Chelsea Viau of Chelsea Lane & Company, we’re talking about the numbers behind your wallpaper—and why they matter more than you might think. Chelsea shares what every designer needs to know before sourcing wallcoverings, including the costly mistakes that can derail your budget, timeline, and client trust. We also dig into vendor relationships, client education, and the importance of working with experts who protect your process and your profit. Whether you love wallpaper or avoid it entirely, this episode is a reminder that every detail counts in a well-designed business. LuAnn Nigara and Chelsea Viau’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Designers are not wallpaper experts. That’s where we come in.” - Chelsea “If your numbers are off, that’s on you. The vendor didn’t tell you to order the wrong quantity.” - LuAnn More About Chelsea Viau Chelsea Lane & Company is an interior design showroom and home decor boutique, specializing in the sale of wallpaper and textiles. The showroom caters to homeowners, designers, and builders. Owner, Chelsea Lane, has over 20 years of experience in the wallpaper industry and her knowledge and expertise has been shared with her staff through extensive training. The shop, which has been open since 2010, is home to a curated collection of home decor, furniture and lighting, as well as features the largest wallpaper library in Palm Beach County, open to the public. Chelsea Lane has a robust virtual showroom program where clients can have access to the top Palm Beach design house from anywhere in the world! Connect with Chelsea Viau Website Instagram Facebook Houzz Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Interior Design Society⁠ (IDS) Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠! Other Shows: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #1097: NEW SHOW: Margalit Lankry: Designers with Intention. A Community with a Collaborative, Abundance Mindset Today With Chelsea Viau:

Today with Chelsea Viau of Chelsea Lane & Company, we’re talking about the numbers behind your wallpaper—and why they matter more than you might think. Chelsea shares what every designer needs to know before sourcing wallcoverings, including the costly mistakes that can derail your budget, timeline, and client trust. We also dig into vendor relationships, client education, and the importance of working with experts who protect your process and your profit. Whether you love wallpaper or avoid it entirely, this episode is a reminder that every detail counts in a well-designed business.


LuAnn Nigara and Chelsea Viau’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Designers are not wallpaper experts. That’s where we come in.” - Chelsea

“If your numbers are off, that’s on you. The vendor didn’t tell you to order the wrong quantity.” - LuAnn


More About Chelsea Viau

Chelsea Lane & Company is an interior design showroom and home decor boutique, specializing in the sale of wallpaper and textiles. The showroom caters to homeowners, designers, and builders. Owner, Chelsea Lane, has over 20 years of experience in the wallpaper industry and her knowledge and expertise has been shared with her staff through extensive training. The shop, which has been open since 2010, is home to a curated collection of home decor, furniture and lighting, as well as features the largest wallpaper library in Palm Beach County, open to the public.

Chelsea Lane has a robust virtual showroom program where clients can have access to the top Palm Beach design house from anywhere in the world!


Connect with Chelsea Viau

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Houzz

Pinterest

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Interior Design Society⁠ (IDS)

Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠!

Other Shows:

AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

AWDB #1097: NEW SHOW: Margalit Lankry: Designers with Intention. A Community with a Collaborative, Abundance Mindset

]]> 3490 no 1121: Best Of Show: Cheryl Luckett: From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Today With Cheryl Luckett: What does it take to leave behind the security of a corporate job and build a thriving design business? For Cheryl Luckett, principal of Dwell by Cheryl, it took vision, courage, and a commitment to excellence. In this conversation, Cheryl shares how she transitioned from her career as a registered dietitian and HR professional at a Fortune 500 company to becoming one of Charlotte’s most sought-after interior designers. We talk about the transferable skills she brought into her design business, the mentors who guided her, and how she now pays it forward by mentoring other designers. Cheryl’s story is a masterclass in believing in yourself, building on your strengths, and taking bold steps toward your dreams. Whether you’re still in a corporate job dreaming of design or you’ve already taken the leap, Cheryl’s insights will inspire you to design not only beautiful spaces but also a business you love. More About Cheryl Luckett Cheryl Luckett wants to give her clients homes they never want to leave. Since 2012, Dwell by Cheryl Interiors has kept clients raving about Cheryl’s ability to transform their homes into classic, colorful, cultured spaces - not to mention her professionalism and attention to detail. Full of creative solutions to her clients’ design challenges, Cheryl and her team champion their projects from start to finish. Like Cheryl’s southern roots, her love for design runs deep. Growing up in Mississippi, she soaked up her grandmother’s and great-great-grandmother’s keen interest in design (the latter even sold catalog home furnishings to friends and neighbors who admired her talent for putting together beautiful spaces!). Connect with Cheryl Luckett Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up! Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Cheryl Luckett: What does it take to leave behind the security of a corporate job and build a thriving design business? For Cheryl Luckett, principal of Dwell by Cheryl, it took vision, courage, and a commitment to excellence. In this conversation, Cheryl shares how she transitioned from her career as a registered dietitian and HR professional at a Fortune 500 company to becoming one of Charlotte’s most sought-after interior designers. We talk about the transferable skills she brought into her design business, the mentors who guided her, and how she now pays it forward by mentoring other designers. Cheryl’s story is a masterclass in believing in yourself, building on your strengths, and taking bold steps toward your dreams. Whether you’re still in a corporate job dreaming of design or you’ve already taken the leap, Cheryl’s insights will inspire you to design not only beautiful spaces but also a business you love. More About Cheryl Luckett Cheryl Luckett wants to give her clients homes they never want to leave. Since 2012, Dwell by Cheryl Interiors has kept clients raving about Cheryl’s ability to transform their homes into classic, colorful, cultured spaces - not to mention her professionalism and attention to detail. Full of creative solutions to her clients’ design challenges, Cheryl and her team champion their projects from start to finish. Like Cheryl’s southern roots, her love for design runs deep. Growing up in Mississippi, she soaked up her grandmother’s and great-great-grandmother’s keen interest in design (the latter even sold catalog home furnishings to friends and neighbors who admired her talent for putting together beautiful spaces!). Connect with Cheryl Luckett Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up! Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Today With Cheryl Luckett:

What does it take to leave behind the security of a corporate job and build a thriving design business? For Cheryl Luckett, principal of Dwell by Cheryl, it took vision, courage, and a commitment to excellence.

In this conversation, Cheryl shares how she transitioned from her career as a registered dietitian and HR professional at a Fortune 500 company to becoming one of Charlotte’s most sought-after interior designers. We talk about the transferable skills she brought into her design business, the mentors who guided her, and how she now pays it forward by mentoring other designers.

Cheryl’s story is a masterclass in believing in yourself, building on your strengths, and taking bold steps toward your dreams. Whether you’re still in a corporate job dreaming of design or you’ve already taken the leap, Cheryl’s insights will inspire you to design not only beautiful spaces but also a business you love.


More About Cheryl Luckett

Cheryl Luckett wants to give her clients homes they never want to leave. Since 2012, Dwell by Cheryl Interiors has kept clients raving about Cheryl’s ability to transform their homes into classic, colorful, cultured spaces - not to mention her professionalism and attention to detail. Full of creative solutions to her clients’ design challenges, Cheryl and her team champion their projects from start to finish.

Like Cheryl’s southern roots, her love for design runs deep. Growing up in Mississippi, she soaked up her grandmother’s and great-great-grandmother’s keen interest in design (the latter even sold catalog home furnishings to friends and neighbors who admired her talent for putting together beautiful spaces!).


Connect with Cheryl Luckett

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!

Join ⁠⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠⁠!


Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

]]> 4445 no 1120: Sponsored Show: Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb: Ciana x Varaluz: Building a Lighting Partnership with Purpose Today With Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb: Today on A Well Designed Business, Ron Henderson from Varaluz and Kevin Plumb from Ciana Lighting share the story behind their recent acquisition—and what it means for designers. This isn't your typical corporate takeover. When their planned 30-minute meeting turned into four and a half hours because they instantly felt like "family," you knew something special was happening. We cover the practical details designers need to know: same-day shipping, under 1% defect rates, their new High Point showroom opening in just two months, plus trade pricing with no minimums. Whether you've worked with Varaluz before or you're discovering them for the first time, this conversation gives you the inside perspective on a partnership that's reshaping how lighting companies serve the design trade. LuAnn Nigara, Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb’s Ah-Ha Moments: "You ever have one of those meetings where you meet people you don't know at all. And within 10 minutes, you know, you're somehow in family." - Ron Henderson More About Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb Kevin Plumb: Kevin Plumb is a visionary business strategist with a proven track record of launching, scaling, and transforming companies into high-performing, high-value brands. With deep expertise in startups, turnarounds, and strategic acquisitions, he has built multiple businesses that have been successfully acquired by public companies and private equity groups. In 2017, Kevin helped found CIANA and served as Co-President, playing a key role in shaping the company’s direction and growth in the custom and hospitality lighting market. Under his leadership, CIANA has combined artistic vision with operational excellence to deliver lasting value. Following CIANA’s recent acquisition of Varaluz, Kevin has stepped into the role of CEO of CIANA x Varaluz, bringing his sharp market insight and growth-driven mindset to expand the brand’s reach and impact. He is known for his ability to translate vision into execution, consistently driving increases in revenue, EBITDA, and brand equity. Whether launching new ventures or revitalizing established ones, Kevin is passionate about building businesses that perform with purpose and scale with integrity. Ron Henderson: Ron Henderson is the founder and creative force behind Varaluz, a lighting brand celebrated for its bold, artful designs and commitment to sustainability. With a background in tech and an eye for the unexpected, Ron has spent nearly two decades designing fixtures that push the boundaries of form and function. His passion lies in crafting pieces that are not only visually striking but also environmentally responsible—using recycled materials, upcycled components, and low-VOC finishes long before it was cool. Ron brings wit, warmth, and a rebellious edge to everything he touches, always seeking to prove that conscious design doesn’t have to compromise on style. Connect with Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb Ciana Lighting Instagram  Facebook  Varaluz Instagram Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Ciana Lighting Varaluz⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠ Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb: Today on A Well Designed Business, Ron Henderson from Varaluz and Kevin Plumb from Ciana Lighting share the story behind their recent acquisition—and what it means for designers. This isn't your typical corporate takeover. When their planned 30-minute meeting turned into four and a half hours because they instantly felt like "family," you knew something special was happening. We cover the practical details designers need to know: same-day shipping, under 1% defect rates, their new High Point showroom opening in just two months, plus trade pricing with no minimums. Whether you've worked with Varaluz before or you're discovering them for the first time, this conversation gives you the inside perspective on a partnership that's reshaping how lighting companies serve the design trade. LuAnn Nigara, Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb’s Ah-Ha Moments: "You ever have one of those meetings where you meet people you don't know at all. And within 10 minutes, you know, you're somehow in family." - Ron Henderson More About Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb Kevin Plumb: Kevin Plumb is a visionary business strategist with a proven track record of launching, scaling, and transforming companies into high-performing, high-value brands. With deep expertise in startups, turnarounds, and strategic acquisitions, he has built multiple businesses that have been successfully acquired by public companies and private equity groups. In 2017, Kevin helped found CIANA and served as Co-President, playing a key role in shaping the company’s direction and growth in the custom and hospitality lighting market. Under his leadership, CIANA has combined artistic vision with operational excellence to deliver lasting value. Following CIANA’s recent acquisition of Varaluz, Kevin has stepped into the role of CEO of CIANA x Varaluz, bringing his sharp market insight and growth-driven mindset to expand the brand’s reach and impact. He is known for his ability to translate vision into execution, consistently driving increases in revenue, EBITDA, and brand equity. Whether launching new ventures or revitalizing established ones, Kevin is passionate about building businesses that perform with purpose and scale with integrity. Ron Henderson: Ron Henderson is the founder and creative force behind Varaluz, a lighting brand celebrated for its bold, artful designs and commitment to sustainability. With a background in tech and an eye for the unexpected, Ron has spent nearly two decades designing fixtures that push the boundaries of form and function. His passion lies in crafting pieces that are not only visually striking but also environmentally responsible—using recycled materials, upcycled components, and low-VOC finishes long before it was cool. Ron brings wit, warmth, and a rebellious edge to everything he touches, always seeking to prove that conscious design doesn’t have to compromise on style. Connect with Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb Ciana Lighting Instagram  Facebook  Varaluz Instagram Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Ciana Lighting Varaluz⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠ Today With Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb:

Today on A Well Designed Business, Ron Henderson from Varaluz and Kevin Plumb from Ciana Lighting share the story behind their recent acquisition—and what it means for designers. This isn't your typical corporate takeover. When their planned 30-minute meeting turned into four and a half hours because they instantly felt like "family," you knew something special was happening. We cover the practical details designers need to know: same-day shipping, under 1% defect rates, their new High Point showroom opening in just two months, plus trade pricing with no minimums. Whether you've worked with Varaluz before or you're discovering them for the first time, this conversation gives you the inside perspective on a partnership that's reshaping how lighting companies serve the design trade.


LuAnn Nigara, Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"You ever have one of those meetings where you meet people you don't know at all. And within 10 minutes, you know, you're somehow in family." - Ron Henderson

More About Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb

Kevin Plumb:

Kevin Plumb is a visionary business strategist with a proven track record of launching, scaling, and transforming companies into high-performing, high-value brands. With deep expertise in startups, turnarounds, and strategic acquisitions, he has built multiple businesses that have been successfully acquired by public companies and private equity groups.

In 2017, Kevin helped found CIANA and served as Co-President, playing a key role in shaping the company’s direction and growth in the custom and hospitality lighting market. Under his leadership, CIANA has combined artistic vision with operational excellence to deliver lasting value.

Following CIANA’s recent acquisition of Varaluz, Kevin has stepped into the role of CEO of CIANA x Varaluz, bringing his sharp market insight and growth-driven mindset to expand the brand’s reach and impact. He is known for his ability to translate vision into execution, consistently driving increases in revenue, EBITDA, and brand equity.

Whether launching new ventures or revitalizing established ones, Kevin is passionate about building businesses that perform with purpose and scale with integrity.


Ron Henderson:

Ron Henderson is the founder and creative force behind Varaluz, a lighting brand celebrated for its bold, artful designs and commitment to sustainability. With a background in tech and an eye for the unexpected, Ron has spent nearly two decades designing fixtures that push the boundaries of form and function. His passion lies in crafting pieces that are not only visually striking but also environmentally responsible—using recycled materials, upcycled components, and low-VOC finishes long before it was cool. Ron brings wit, warmth, and a rebellious edge to everything he touches, always seeking to prove that conscious design doesn’t have to compromise on style.


Connect with Ron Henderson & Kevin Plumb

Ciana Lighting

Instagram 

Facebook 

Varaluz

Instagram

Facebook

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Ciana Lighting Varaluz⁠

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠

]]> 4126 no 1119: What Would Lu Do?: This Is the Difference Between Business Owners Who Wait and Those Who Act Today With LuAnn Nigara: Right now, the economy feels shaky. Projects are slowing down. And if you're like a lot of business owners, you're wondering: Is it just me? Is something wrong? Should I be doing something—or should I be bracing for impact? In this WWLD episode, LuAnn walks you through what truly separates business owners who ride out uncertainty with strength—and those who quietly slide into chaos. You'll hear: 3 free strategies (and 1 must-do mindset shift) to stabilize your business today A powerful story of two designers—same market, totally different outcomes Why marketing should never stop (yes, even now) What LuAnn University has become in Fall 2025—and how it's now structured like a real business degree built for our industry Whether you enroll in a class or not, this episode is a business coaching session in your ears. If you're feeling off, overwhelmed, or unsure—press play and take back control. Go to luannuniversity.com now A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years AWDB #532: LuAnn Nigara: Thoughts on Leading Your Business Through the Covid-19 Crisis Tue, 02 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Right now, the economy feels shaky. Projects are slowing down. And if you're like a lot of business owners, you're wondering: Is it just me? Is something wrong? Should I be doing something—or should I be bracing for impact? In this WWLD episode, LuAnn walks you through what truly separates business owners who ride out uncertainty with strength—and those who quietly slide into chaos. You'll hear: 3 free strategies (and 1 must-do mindset shift) to stabilize your business today A powerful story of two designers—same market, totally different outcomes Why marketing should never stop (yes, even now) What LuAnn University has become in Fall 2025—and how it's now structured like a real business degree built for our industry Whether you enroll in a class or not, this episode is a business coaching session in your ears. If you're feeling off, overwhelmed, or unsure—press play and take back control. Go to luannuniversity.com now A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years AWDB #532: LuAnn Nigara: Thoughts on Leading Your Business Through the Covid-19 Crisis Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Right now, the economy feels shaky. Projects are slowing down. And if you're like a lot of business owners, you're wondering: Is it just me? Is something wrong? Should I be doing something—or should I be bracing for impact?

In this WWLD episode, LuAnn walks you through what truly separates business owners who ride out uncertainty with strength—and those who quietly slide into chaos.

You'll hear:

  • 3 free strategies (and 1 must-do mindset shift) to stabilize your business today
  • A powerful story of two designers—same market, totally different outcomes
  • Why marketing should never stop (yes, even now)

What LuAnn University has become in Fall 2025—and how it's now structured like a real business degree built for our industry

Whether you enroll in a class or not, this episode is a business coaching session in your ears. If you're feeling off, overwhelmed, or unsure—press play and take back control.

Go to luannuniversity.com now


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Shows:

AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years

AWDB #532: LuAnn Nigara: Thoughts on Leading Your Business Through the Covid-19 Crisis

]]> 1980 no 1118: Sponsored Show: Jamie Gasparovic: Why I Invested in the Interior Design Standard Today With Jamie Gasparovic: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What comes to mind for you when you think of investing in yourself for the benefit of your business? It’s something we talk about a lot on the show—it’s no secret that I believe every designer, every business owner period, needs to be investing in themselves as soon as possible. But too often, even when business owners do invest in their own growth, it stays behind the scenes. They take courses or hire coaches, and they don’t really talk much about it. And that leaves so many other business owners asking themselves, “Is it REALLY worth it?” In today’s sponsored show, my guest Jamie Gasparovic is doing the opposite—she’s here as a spokesperson for Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard, sharing the difference it’s made in her business, and why she will invest in herself again and again to grow her CEO skills. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic’s Ah-Ha Moments: "That's what's in the standard. It's not just do as I say, it's hear how I say it." - LuAnn "The first project I did after the standard was so smooth... I just set the expectations up front. Everything went off without a hitch. And it was like, wow, that was way, way easier than what I've been doing." - Jamie "The standard is not a course. It is the back end that successful design firms are using." - Jamie “Business owner hat first wins the day. Show up as designer second.” -LuAnn More About Jamie Gasparovic Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings. Connect with Jamie Gasparovic Website - House of Funk Instagram Facebook Pinterest Website - Studio Gaspo Instagram Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: House Of Funk Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up! Other Show: AWDB #973 Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” AWDB #520 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jamie Gasparovic: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What comes to mind for you when you think of investing in yourself for the benefit of your business? It’s something we talk about a lot on the show—it’s no secret that I believe every designer, every business owner period, needs to be investing in themselves as soon as possible. But too often, even when business owners do invest in their own growth, it stays behind the scenes. They take courses or hire coaches, and they don’t really talk much about it. And that leaves so many other business owners asking themselves, “Is it REALLY worth it?” In today’s sponsored show, my guest Jamie Gasparovic is doing the opposite—she’s here as a spokesperson for Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard, sharing the difference it’s made in her business, and why she will invest in herself again and again to grow her CEO skills. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic’s Ah-Ha Moments: "That's what's in the standard. It's not just do as I say, it's hear how I say it." - LuAnn "The first project I did after the standard was so smooth... I just set the expectations up front. Everything went off without a hitch. And it was like, wow, that was way, way easier than what I've been doing." - Jamie "The standard is not a course. It is the back end that successful design firms are using." - Jamie “Business owner hat first wins the day. Show up as designer second.” -LuAnn More About Jamie Gasparovic Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings. Connect with Jamie Gasparovic Website - House of Funk Instagram Facebook Pinterest Website - Studio Gaspo Instagram Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: House Of Funk Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up! Other Show: AWDB #973 Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” AWDB #520 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! Today With Jamie Gasparovic:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What comes to mind for you when you think of investing in yourself for the benefit of your business? It’s something we talk about a lot on the show—it’s no secret that I believe every designer, every business owner period, needs to be investing in themselves as soon as possible.

But too often, even when business owners do invest in their own growth, it stays behind the scenes. They take courses or hire coaches, and they don’t really talk much about it. And that leaves so many other business owners asking themselves, “Is it REALLY worth it?”

In today’s sponsored show, my guest Jamie Gasparovic is doing the opposite—she’s here as a spokesperson for Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard, sharing the difference it’s made in her business, and why she will invest in herself again and again to grow her CEO skills.


LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"That's what's in the standard. It's not just do as I say, it's hear how I say it." - LuAnn

"The first project I did after the standard was so smooth... I just set the expectations up front. Everything went off without a hitch. And it was like, wow, that was way, way easier than what I've been doing." - Jamie

"The standard is not a course. It is the back end that successful design firms are using." - Jamie

“Business owner hat first wins the day. Show up as designer second.” -LuAnn

More About Jamie Gasparovic

Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy.

With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings.


Connect with Jamie Gasparovic

Website - House of Funk

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Website - Studio Gaspo

Instagram

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

House Of Funk


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!

Other Show:

AWDB #973 Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

AWDB #520 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

]]> 3670 no 1117: Best Of Show: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity Today With Joshua Smith: Joshua Smith’s journey from interior designer to high-performance coach is one packed with lessons every business owner needs to hear. In this episode, Joshua pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design a life and business you love—one that’s profitable, sustainable, and in alignment with your values. We talk mindset, boundaries, and the courage to make big changes when your business model isn’t serving you anymore. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on fumes or chasing the wrong goals, Joshua’s wisdom will inspire you to pause, re-evaluate, and create a plan that actually fuels your success. More About Joshua Smith Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”. With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Connect with Joshua Smith Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog The “3 fives” routine A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Joshua Smith: Joshua Smith’s journey from interior designer to high-performance coach is one packed with lessons every business owner needs to hear. In this episode, Joshua pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design a life and business you love—one that’s profitable, sustainable, and in alignment with your values. We talk mindset, boundaries, and the courage to make big changes when your business model isn’t serving you anymore. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on fumes or chasing the wrong goals, Joshua’s wisdom will inspire you to pause, re-evaluate, and create a plan that actually fuels your success. More About Joshua Smith Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”. With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Connect with Joshua Smith Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog The “3 fives” routine A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Today With Joshua Smith:

Joshua Smith’s journey from interior designer to high-performance coach is one packed with lessons every business owner needs to hear. In this episode, Joshua pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to design a life and business you love—one that’s profitable, sustainable, and in alignment with your values.

We talk mindset, boundaries, and the courage to make big changes when your business model isn’t serving you anymore. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on fumes or chasing the wrong goals, Joshua’s wisdom will inspire you to pause, re-evaluate, and create a plan that actually fuels your success.


More About Joshua Smith

Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”.

With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day.


Connect with Joshua Smith

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Blog

The “3 fives” routine

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

]]> 3801 no 1116: NEW SHOW: Juliana Ewer: How Networking and Volunteerism Can be the Biggest Return on Investment for your Business and Your Heart Today With Juliana Ewer: Today with Juliana Ewer, president of the Houston IDS chapter and owner of J Squared Home Designs, we explore how strategic volunteerism and intentional networking can become your most powerful business-building tools - without spending a dime on marketing budgets. LuAnn Nigara and Juliana Ewer’s Ah-Ha Moments: "If you're gonna go to something, don't be a tourist, jump in, right? Don't just show up to the meeting and sit in the back and, you know, meet people." - Juliana "You can't buy that kind of marketing, really. You can't buy people's trust and you can't show up enough.” - Juliana "It’s a long tail thing…You would never add it up and go, that was worth all that time. But you know, we still get business from it 20 years later.” - LuAnn More About Juliana Ewer Juliana Ewer is an Award-Winning Interior Designer, and the Owner/Lead Designer at J Squared Home Designs, founded in 2018. She is passionate about curating elevated, livable spaces taking into consideration lifestyle, and each client’s personal design aesthetic. She is the President of the Houston Chapter of the Interior Design Society and serves as anIDS National Committee member. Juliana specializes in Residential Interior Design, Vacation Rental Design and is a vetted Architectural Digest PRO. She has been a featured panelist at IDS National conference as well as a showroom panelistat High Point Market and Dallas Market. She was selected as a Design Influencer for Fall 2023 High Point Market, a Style Eye for January 2024 Dallas Market, and has served as a HPMKT Insider’s Tour Host for both 2024 Markets. She was a featured influencer with “Designhounds” for KBIS 2024 and ICFF 2024 in New York. J Squared Home Designs is headquartered in Missouri City, Texas (Southwest Houston). Connect with Juliana Ewer Website Instagram Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interior Design Society (IDS) Other Shows: AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design AWDB # 717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #1059: Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry Fri, 22 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Juliana Ewer: Today with Juliana Ewer, president of the Houston IDS chapter and owner of J Squared Home Designs, we explore how strategic volunteerism and intentional networking can become your most powerful business-building tools - without spending a dime on marketing budgets. LuAnn Nigara and Juliana Ewer’s Ah-Ha Moments: "If you're gonna go to something, don't be a tourist, jump in, right? Don't just show up to the meeting and sit in the back and, you know, meet people." - Juliana "You can't buy that kind of marketing, really. You can't buy people's trust and you can't show up enough.” - Juliana "It’s a long tail thing…You would never add it up and go, that was worth all that time. But you know, we still get business from it 20 years later.” - LuAnn More About Juliana Ewer Juliana Ewer is an Award-Winning Interior Designer, and the Owner/Lead Designer at J Squared Home Designs, founded in 2018. She is passionate about curating elevated, livable spaces taking into consideration lifestyle, and each client’s personal design aesthetic. She is the President of the Houston Chapter of the Interior Design Society and serves as anIDS National Committee member. Juliana specializes in Residential Interior Design, Vacation Rental Design and is a vetted Architectural Digest PRO. She has been a featured panelist at IDS National conference as well as a showroom panelistat High Point Market and Dallas Market. She was selected as a Design Influencer for Fall 2023 High Point Market, a Style Eye for January 2024 Dallas Market, and has served as a HPMKT Insider’s Tour Host for both 2024 Markets. She was a featured influencer with “Designhounds” for KBIS 2024 and ICFF 2024 in New York. J Squared Home Designs is headquartered in Missouri City, Texas (Southwest Houston). Connect with Juliana Ewer Website Instagram Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interior Design Society (IDS) Other Shows: AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design AWDB # 717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #1059: Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry Today With Juliana Ewer:

Today with Juliana Ewer, president of the Houston IDS chapter and owner of J Squared Home Designs, we explore how strategic volunteerism and intentional networking can become your most powerful business-building tools - without spending a dime on marketing budgets.


LuAnn Nigara and Juliana Ewer’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"If you're gonna go to something, don't be a tourist, jump in, right? Don't just show up to the meeting and sit in the back and, you know, meet people." - Juliana

"You can't buy that kind of marketing, really. You can't buy people's trust and you can't show up enough.” - Juliana

"It’s a long tail thing…You would never add it up and go, that was worth all that time. But you know, we still get business from it 20 years later.” - LuAnn


More About Juliana Ewer

Juliana Ewer is an Award-Winning Interior Designer, and the Owner/Lead Designer at J Squared Home Designs, founded in 2018. She is passionate about curating elevated, livable spaces taking into consideration lifestyle, and each client’s personal design aesthetic.

She is the President of the Houston Chapter of the Interior Design Society and serves as anIDS National Committee member. Juliana specializes in Residential Interior Design, Vacation Rental Design and is a vetted Architectural Digest PRO. She has been a featured panelist at IDS National

conference as well as a showroom panelistat High Point Market and Dallas Market.

She was selected as a Design Influencer for Fall 2023 High Point Market, a Style Eye for January 2024 Dallas Market, and has served as a HPMKT Insider’s Tour Host for both 2024 Markets. She was a featured influencer with “Designhounds” for KBIS 2024 and ICFF 2024 in New York.

J Squared Home Designs is headquartered in Missouri City, Texas (Southwest Houston).


Connect with Juliana Ewer

Website

Instagram

Facebook

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interior Design Society (IDS)


Other Shows:

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

AWDB # 717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #1059: Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry

]]> 3721 no 1115: Best Of Show: Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan Today With Laurence Carr: Laurence Carr may have launched her interior design business less than two years before we recorded this conversation, but you’d never know it from the way she runs her firm—with vision, clarity, and purpose. In this episode, Laurence shares how she built a strong business foundation from day one, the intentional strategies she uses to keep her pipeline full, and how her commitment to sustainability and holistic design has positioned her as a leader in the industry. Whether you’re brand-new or twenty years in, Laurence’s story is proof that when you have a plan, stick to it, and lead like a CEO, success follows. More About Laurence Carr Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer, stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design. Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents. Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you. Connect with Laurence Carr Website Instagram  YouTube LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125 Andrew Joseph #39 Dennis Scully #459 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Laurence Carr: Laurence Carr may have launched her interior design business less than two years before we recorded this conversation, but you’d never know it from the way she runs her firm—with vision, clarity, and purpose. In this episode, Laurence shares how she built a strong business foundation from day one, the intentional strategies she uses to keep her pipeline full, and how her commitment to sustainability and holistic design has positioned her as a leader in the industry. Whether you’re brand-new or twenty years in, Laurence’s story is proof that when you have a plan, stick to it, and lead like a CEO, success follows. More About Laurence Carr Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer, stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design. Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents. Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you. Connect with Laurence Carr Website Instagram  YouTube LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125 Andrew Joseph #39 Dennis Scully #459 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Today With Laurence Carr:

Laurence Carr may have launched her interior design business less than two years before we recorded this conversation, but you’d never know it from the way she runs her firm—with vision, clarity, and purpose. In this episode, Laurence shares how she built a strong business foundation from day one, the intentional strategies she uses to keep her pipeline full, and how her commitment to sustainability and holistic design has positioned her as a leader in the industry. Whether you’re brand-new or twenty years in, Laurence’s story is proof that when you have a plan, stick to it, and lead like a CEO, success follows.


More About Laurence Carr

Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer, stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design.

Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents.

Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you.


Connect with Laurence Carr

Website

Instagram 

YouTube

LinkedIn


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order


Other Shows:

Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125

Andrew Joseph #39

Dennis Scully #459

Savour Partnership #209 and #458

]]> 4261 no 1114: LuAnn Featured: Window Works - A Finer Touch Construction Podcast Today With Brad Leavitt (A Finer Touch Construction Podcast): Join me for a special re-airing of my conversation with Brad Leavitt on the AFT Construction Podcast! We dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship, sharing insights on building strong relationships, setting expectations, and the importance of systems in business. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and a few laughs along the way. Tune in to gain valuable tips that can elevate your business! ⁠Check the ⁠⁠A Finer Touch Construction Podcast⁠!⁠ In this episode we discuss the importance of installing systems and protocol in your company. Every small business should have detailed and outlined tasks for each employee. Podcast Instagram Facebook Houzz Pinterest YouTube Fri, 15 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Brad Leavitt (A Finer Touch Construction Podcast): Join me for a special re-airing of my conversation with Brad Leavitt on the AFT Construction Podcast! We dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship, sharing insights on building strong relationships, setting expectations, and the importance of systems in business. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and a few laughs along the way. Tune in to gain valuable tips that can elevate your business! ⁠Check the ⁠⁠A Finer Touch Construction Podcast⁠!⁠ In this episode we discuss the importance of installing systems and protocol in your company. Every small business should have detailed and outlined tasks for each employee. Podcast Instagram Facebook Houzz Pinterest YouTube Today With Brad Leavitt (A Finer Touch Construction Podcast):

Join me for a special re-airing of my conversation with Brad Leavitt on the AFT Construction Podcast! We dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship, sharing insights on building strong relationships, setting expectations, and the importance of systems in business. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and a few laughs along the way. Tune in to gain valuable tips that can elevate your business!


⁠Check the ⁠⁠A Finer Touch Construction Podcast⁠!⁠

In this episode we discuss the importance of installing systems and protocol in your company. Every small business should have detailed and outlined tasks for each employee.

Podcast

Instagram

Facebook

Houzz

Pinterest

YouTube

]]> 3899 no 1113: NEW SHOW: Jamie Young Jeter: Feel the Fear and Build It Anyway – Growing a Global Design Brand Today With Jamie Young Jeter: Today with Jamie Young Jeter, founder and president of Jamie Young Company, we dive deep into what it takes to build a creative business that thrives on "strategic creativity." From selling cement pots out of her truck while pregnant to running a multi-million-dollar home furnishings company, Jamie's 28-year entrepreneurial journey is packed with lessons every designer needs to hear. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Young Jeter’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Yes, I can do it myself. That's a trap to me. It is a trap because we started businesses. So of course we could do all these things on our own. We are all brilliant. We know what we're doing. We have all these ideas, but it's a trap because it takes great teams." From LuAnn: "If you don't want to make any mistakes, stay home in bed. You'll be very safe there. The rest of us are out here trying to make things happen." More About Jamie Young Jeter Raised in Los Angeles by an artist and entrepreneur, Jamie was drawn to design aesthetics from a young age. A unique home and an out of the box perspective molded the person she is today. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry during the 70’s and 80’s Jamie was surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric characters; professional writers, painters, athletes, actors, and creative business minded mentors—inspiration was around every corner. After high school, she continued her studies at Parsons School of Design in New York City. She and her now husband, David Jeter, also an artist, attended San Francisco College of Art focusing on painting and sculpture with a deep knowledge of art history, met in 1992. Jamie’s superpower was the ability to understand design and fashion in the home space and bring to market an elegant and bohemian perspective unique to her upbringing. David’s deep knowledge of art and world history coupled with brilliant and fresh designs completed the package. Together, with a love of connecting to communities near and far, they founded Jamie Young Company in 1997 to fill a void in the world of home furnishing. Connect with Jamie Young Jeter Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use our ⁠Kravet⁠ code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim Other Shows: AWDB #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates AWDB #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers Tue, 12 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jamie Young Jeter: Today with Jamie Young Jeter, founder and president of Jamie Young Company, we dive deep into what it takes to build a creative business that thrives on "strategic creativity." From selling cement pots out of her truck while pregnant to running a multi-million-dollar home furnishings company, Jamie's 28-year entrepreneurial journey is packed with lessons every designer needs to hear. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Young Jeter’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Yes, I can do it myself. That's a trap to me. It is a trap because we started businesses. So of course we could do all these things on our own. We are all brilliant. We know what we're doing. We have all these ideas, but it's a trap because it takes great teams." From LuAnn: "If you don't want to make any mistakes, stay home in bed. You'll be very safe there. The rest of us are out here trying to make things happen." More About Jamie Young Jeter Raised in Los Angeles by an artist and entrepreneur, Jamie was drawn to design aesthetics from a young age. A unique home and an out of the box perspective molded the person she is today. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry during the 70’s and 80’s Jamie was surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric characters; professional writers, painters, athletes, actors, and creative business minded mentors—inspiration was around every corner. After high school, she continued her studies at Parsons School of Design in New York City. She and her now husband, David Jeter, also an artist, attended San Francisco College of Art focusing on painting and sculpture with a deep knowledge of art history, met in 1992. Jamie’s superpower was the ability to understand design and fashion in the home space and bring to market an elegant and bohemian perspective unique to her upbringing. David’s deep knowledge of art and world history coupled with brilliant and fresh designs completed the package. Together, with a love of connecting to communities near and far, they founded Jamie Young Company in 1997 to fill a void in the world of home furnishing. Connect with Jamie Young Jeter Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use our ⁠Kravet⁠ code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim Other Shows: AWDB #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates AWDB #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers Today With Jamie Young Jeter:

Today with Jamie Young Jeter, founder and president of Jamie Young Company, we dive deep into what it takes to build a creative business that thrives on "strategic creativity." From selling cement pots out of her truck while pregnant to running a multi-million-dollar home furnishings company, Jamie's 28-year entrepreneurial journey is packed with lessons every designer needs to hear.


LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Young Jeter’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Yes, I can do it myself. That's a trap to me. It is a trap because we started businesses. So of course we could do all these things on our own. We are all brilliant. We know what we're doing. We have all these ideas, but it's a trap because it takes great teams."

From LuAnn:

"If you don't want to make any mistakes, stay home in bed. You'll be very safe there. The rest of us are out here trying to make things happen."


More About Jamie Young Jeter

Raised in Los Angeles by an artist and entrepreneur, Jamie was drawn to design aesthetics from a young age. A unique home and an out of the box perspective molded the person she is today. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry during the 70’s and 80’s Jamie was surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric characters; professional writers, painters, athletes, actors, and creative business minded mentors—inspiration was around every corner. After high school, she continued her studies at Parsons School of Design in New York City. She and her now husband, David Jeter, also an artist, attended San Francisco College of Art focusing on painting and sculpture with a deep knowledge of art history, met in 1992. Jamie’s superpower was the ability to understand design and fashion in the home space and bring to market an elegant and bohemian perspective unique to her upbringing. David’s deep knowledge of art and world history coupled with brilliant and fresh designs completed the package. Together, with a love of connecting to communities near and far, they founded Jamie Young Company in 1997 to fill a void in the world of home furnishing.


Connect with Jamie Young Jeter

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠Revel Woods⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Use our ⁠Kravet⁠ code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim


Other Shows:

AWDB #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates

AWDB #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers

]]> 3928 no 1112: Best Of Show: Claire Staszak: Winner of Best Blog Writing by Design Bloggers Conference 2017 Today With Claire Staszak: LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate. Today we're bringing back Claire Staszak's episode. She won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy. More About Claire Staszak Claire Staszak is a Chicago-based interior designer known for her holistic design process and expertise in designing and restoring homes, infusing them with soul. She has a special affinity for crafting timeless and functional kitchens. Centered by Design was born out of her love of historical architecture, her well-trained eye for interiors, and her passion for personal wellness. Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College. Her work has been featured by Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, Chicago Tribune, HGTV, LUXE and others. Connect with Claire Staszak Website Instagram Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Fri, 08 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Claire Staszak: LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate. Today we're bringing back Claire Staszak's episode. She won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy. More About Claire Staszak Claire Staszak is a Chicago-based interior designer known for her holistic design process and expertise in designing and restoring homes, infusing them with soul. She has a special affinity for crafting timeless and functional kitchens. Centered by Design was born out of her love of historical architecture, her well-trained eye for interiors, and her passion for personal wellness. Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College. Her work has been featured by Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, Chicago Tribune, HGTV, LUXE and others. Connect with Claire Staszak Website Instagram Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Today With Claire Staszak:

LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate.

Today we're bringing back Claire Staszak's episode. She won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy.


More About Claire Staszak

Claire Staszak is a Chicago-based interior designer known for her holistic design process and expertise in designing and restoring homes, infusing them with soul. She has a special affinity for crafting timeless and functional kitchens. Centered by Design was born out of her love of historical architecture, her well-trained eye for interiors, and her passion for personal wellness.

Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College. Her work has been featured by Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, Chicago Tribune, HGTV, LUXE and others.


Connect with Claire Staszak

Website

Instagram

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order

]]> 3641 no 1111: LuAnn Featured: Coaching Through Chaos Podcast: The Well-Designed Business with Luann Nigara Today With Dr Colleen Mullen (Coaching Through Chaos Podcast): I’m so excited to re-share this incredible conversation I had with Dr. Colleen Mullen on her podcast, Coaching Through Chaos. Colleen and I dive deep into the journey behind Window Works, what it really takes to build a business that lasts, and the mindset that’s helped me through over 40 years of entrepreneurship. This isn’t just for interior designers—this episode is for any business owner who’s ready to get serious, show up with purpose, and take ownership of their success. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos (and who hasn’t?), Colleen’s questions help pull out the key lessons that will bring you clarity and direction. ⁠Check the ⁠Coaching Through Chaos Podcast⁠!⁠ LuAnn Nigara is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey for over 30 years now, but she is probably most known now on a larger scale for her expertise on building, growing and sustaining a business. She hosts The Well-Designed Business Podcast, is a well-known speaker at trade shows and leads workshops. Her expertise lies in helping others, including established business owners, develop the fine skils necessary to have their business prepped to withstand the ebbs and flows over decades! Her expertise is also now captured in the book, A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, LuAnn shares a decision made at 18 that put her on the trajectory to business success; why systems are so key to a successful business, how she grew and shifted over the years, and why some businesses just can't succeed. PLEASE CHECK OUT LuAnnNigara.com to discover all the ways you can benefit from LuAnn's expertise. If you are enjoying The Coaching Through Chaos Podcast, and you want to stay connected and want to chat about the episode, just follow us at Coaching Through Chaos on Facebook. If you want to interact with Colleen more personally or stay up-to-date on her other podcasts and happenings, you can follow or friend her on: Facebook Instagram Twitter Listen to Shrink@Shrink to learn about love and life through the movies every month. If you are a woman, interested in building your personal leadership qualities, check out Dr. Colleen's book: Stop Bitching, Just Lead! The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader If you want to work with Colleen for personal 1:1 coaching to help you conquer the chaos in your life, just reach out through CoachingThroughChaos.com click on the Contact page. Thanks for listening! Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Dr Colleen Mullen (Coaching Through Chaos Podcast): I’m so excited to re-share this incredible conversation I had with Dr. Colleen Mullen on her podcast, Coaching Through Chaos. Colleen and I dive deep into the journey behind Window Works, what it really takes to build a business that lasts, and the mindset that’s helped me through over 40 years of entrepreneurship. This isn’t just for interior designers—this episode is for any business owner who’s ready to get serious, show up with purpose, and take ownership of their success. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos (and who hasn’t?), Colleen’s questions help pull out the key lessons that will bring you clarity and direction. ⁠Check the ⁠Coaching Through Chaos Podcast⁠!⁠ LuAnn Nigara is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey for over 30 years now, but she is probably most known now on a larger scale for her expertise on building, growing and sustaining a business. She hosts The Well-Designed Business Podcast, is a well-known speaker at trade shows and leads workshops. Her expertise lies in helping others, including established business owners, develop the fine skils necessary to have their business prepped to withstand the ebbs and flows over decades! Her expertise is also now captured in the book, A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, LuAnn shares a decision made at 18 that put her on the trajectory to business success; why systems are so key to a successful business, how she grew and shifted over the years, and why some businesses just can't succeed. PLEASE CHECK OUT LuAnnNigara.com to discover all the ways you can benefit from LuAnn's expertise. If you are enjoying The Coaching Through Chaos Podcast, and you want to stay connected and want to chat about the episode, just follow us at Coaching Through Chaos on Facebook. If you want to interact with Colleen more personally or stay up-to-date on her other podcasts and happenings, you can follow or friend her on: Facebook Instagram Twitter Listen to Shrink@Shrink to learn about love and life through the movies every month. If you are a woman, interested in building your personal leadership qualities, check out Dr. Colleen's book: Stop Bitching, Just Lead! The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader If you want to work with Colleen for personal 1:1 coaching to help you conquer the chaos in your life, just reach out through CoachingThroughChaos.com click on the Contact page. Thanks for listening! Today With Dr Colleen Mullen (Coaching Through Chaos Podcast):

I’m so excited to re-share this incredible conversation I had with Dr. Colleen Mullen on her podcast, Coaching Through Chaos. Colleen and I dive deep into the journey behind Window Works, what it really takes to build a business that lasts, and the mindset that’s helped me through over 40 years of entrepreneurship.

This isn’t just for interior designers—this episode is for any business owner who’s ready to get serious, show up with purpose, and take ownership of their success. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos (and who hasn’t?), Colleen’s questions help pull out the key lessons that will bring you clarity and direction.


⁠Check the ⁠Coaching Through Chaos Podcast⁠!⁠

LuAnn Nigara is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey for over 30 years now, but she is probably most known now on a larger scale for her expertise on building, growing and sustaining a business. She hosts The Well-Designed Business Podcast, is a well-known speaker at trade shows and leads workshops. Her expertise lies in helping others, including established business owners, develop the fine skils necessary to have their business prepped to withstand the ebbs and flows over decades! Her expertise is also now captured in the book, A Well-Designed Business.

In this episode, LuAnn shares a decision made at 18 that put her on the trajectory to business success; why systems are so key to a successful business, how she grew and shifted over the years, and why some businesses just can't succeed.

PLEASE CHECK OUT LuAnnNigara.com to discover all the ways you can benefit from LuAnn's expertise.


If you are enjoying The Coaching Through Chaos Podcast, and you want to stay connected and want to chat about the episode, just follow us at Coaching Through Chaos on Facebook.

If you want to interact with Colleen more personally or stay up-to-date on her other podcasts and happenings, you can follow or friend her on:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Listen to Shrink@Shrink to learn about love and life through the movies every month.


If you are a woman, interested in building your personal leadership qualities, check out Dr. Colleen's book: Stop Bitching, Just Lead! The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader


If you want to work with Colleen for personal 1:1 coaching to help you conquer the chaos in your life, just reach out through CoachingThroughChaos.com click on the Contact page.


Thanks for listening!

]]> 2280 no 1110: NEW SHOW: Jenna Gaidusek: Mastering AI Tools for a Streamlined Design Business Today With Jenna Gaidusek: The world of AI is moving at lightning speed, and it's easy to feel left behind. But what if you could ignore the noise and focus on a few core tools that could fundamentally change your workflow for the better? This week on the podcast, I invited AI expert and industry guide Jenna Gaidusek back to the show to do just that. She walks us through the foundational AI strategies that are here to stay. Learn how to leverage AI note-takers to automate your meeting summaries and to-do lists, understand the key differences between powerhouse platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity, and discover the practical ways to use visual AI to close sales faster—while staying ethical along the way. This episode is your practical starting guide to making AI work for you. LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I do not take other designers' work and run them through my models... Just because you can, because you can, should you? There has to be these ethical boundaries that we have to set for ourself." - Jenna Gaidusek "My huge aha was you need a trained interior design professional to translate your pedestrian conversation and description of what you want to what you really want... AI isn't feeling anything." - LuAnn Nigara More About Jenna Gaidusek Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City. Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Revel Woods What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use our Kravet code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim Other Shows: AWDB #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design AWDB #911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio Fri, 01 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jenna Gaidusek: The world of AI is moving at lightning speed, and it's easy to feel left behind. But what if you could ignore the noise and focus on a few core tools that could fundamentally change your workflow for the better? This week on the podcast, I invited AI expert and industry guide Jenna Gaidusek back to the show to do just that. She walks us through the foundational AI strategies that are here to stay. Learn how to leverage AI note-takers to automate your meeting summaries and to-do lists, understand the key differences between powerhouse platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity, and discover the practical ways to use visual AI to close sales faster—while staying ethical along the way. This episode is your practical starting guide to making AI work for you. LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I do not take other designers' work and run them through my models... Just because you can, because you can, should you? There has to be these ethical boundaries that we have to set for ourself." - Jenna Gaidusek "My huge aha was you need a trained interior design professional to translate your pedestrian conversation and description of what you want to what you really want... AI isn't feeling anything." - LuAnn Nigara More About Jenna Gaidusek Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City. Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Revel Woods What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use our Kravet code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim Other Shows: AWDB #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design AWDB #911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio Today With Jenna Gaidusek:

The world of AI is moving at lightning speed, and it's easy to feel left behind. But what if you could ignore the noise and focus on a few core tools that could fundamentally change your workflow for the better?

This week on the podcast, I invited AI expert and industry guide Jenna Gaidusek back to the show to do just that. She walks us through the foundational AI strategies that are here to stay. Learn how to leverage AI note-takers to automate your meeting summaries and to-do lists, understand the key differences between powerhouse platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity, and discover the practical ways to use visual AI to close sales faster—while staying ethical along the way. This episode is your practical starting guide to making AI work for you.


LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I do not take other designers' work and run them through my models... Just because you can, because you can, should you? There has to be these ethical boundaries that we have to set for ourself." - Jenna Gaidusek

"My huge aha was you need a trained interior design professional to translate your pedestrian conversation and description of what you want to what you really want... AI isn't feeling anything." - LuAnn Nigara


More About Jenna Gaidusek

Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City.

Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer.


Connect with Jenna Gaidusek

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠Revel Woods


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Use our Kravet code AWDB10 for a 10% any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim


Other Shows:

AWDB #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design

AWDB #911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio

]]> 4161 no 1109: Best Of Show: Courtney McLeod: Defined Process = Success in Your Interior Design Business Today With Courtney McLeod: I’m thrilled to re-air this gem of a conversation with Courtney McLeod, the powerhouse behind Right Meets Left Interior Design. If you’ve ever thought, “Can I really pivot from another career into design?” Courtney is living proof that not only can you—but you can do it brilliantly. Courtney left a successful 15-year career in finance, took her Wharton-honed business skills, and combined them with her passion for design to create a thriving, process-driven firm in NYC. In this episode, she pulls back the curtain on how she did it—with intention, confidence, and a six-step client process that lets her lead with both creativity and clarity. If you’re looking for inspiration to lean into your strengths, define your process, and build a brand that truly reflects YOU—this one’s a must-listen. And if you’ve got those “but I didn’t go to design school” doubts swirling in your head? Hit play. Courtney will show you exactly how to turn what makes you different into what makes you successful. More About Courtney McLeod An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others – joy. Her designs express both her client’s unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more. Connect with Courtney McLeod Website Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: Erica Ward #6 Monique Holmes #365 Rachel Cannon #306 Nicole Heymer #317 Curio Electro #125 Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Courtney McLeod: I’m thrilled to re-air this gem of a conversation with Courtney McLeod, the powerhouse behind Right Meets Left Interior Design. If you’ve ever thought, “Can I really pivot from another career into design?” Courtney is living proof that not only can you—but you can do it brilliantly. Courtney left a successful 15-year career in finance, took her Wharton-honed business skills, and combined them with her passion for design to create a thriving, process-driven firm in NYC. In this episode, she pulls back the curtain on how she did it—with intention, confidence, and a six-step client process that lets her lead with both creativity and clarity. If you’re looking for inspiration to lean into your strengths, define your process, and build a brand that truly reflects YOU—this one’s a must-listen. And if you’ve got those “but I didn’t go to design school” doubts swirling in your head? Hit play. Courtney will show you exactly how to turn what makes you different into what makes you successful. More About Courtney McLeod An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others – joy. Her designs express both her client’s unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more. Connect with Courtney McLeod Website Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Facebook A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: Erica Ward #6 Monique Holmes #365 Rachel Cannon #306 Nicole Heymer #317 Curio Electro #125 Today With Courtney McLeod:

I’m thrilled to re-air this gem of a conversation with Courtney McLeod, the powerhouse behind Right Meets Left Interior Design. If you’ve ever thought, “Can I really pivot from another career into design?” Courtney is living proof that not only can you—but you can do it brilliantly.

Courtney left a successful 15-year career in finance, took her Wharton-honed business skills, and combined them with her passion for design to create a thriving, process-driven firm in NYC. In this episode, she pulls back the curtain on how she did it—with intention, confidence, and a six-step client process that lets her lead with both creativity and clarity.

If you’re looking for inspiration to lean into your strengths, define your process, and build a brand that truly reflects YOU—this one’s a must-listen. And if you’ve got those “but I didn’t go to design school” doubts swirling in your head? Hit play. Courtney will show you exactly how to turn what makes you different into what makes you successful.


More About Courtney McLeod

An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others – joy. Her designs express both her client’s unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more.


Connect with Courtney McLeod

Website

Instagram

Twitter

LinkedIn

Facebook


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order


Other Shows:

Erica Ward #6

Monique Holmes #365

Rachel Cannon #306

Nicole Heymer #317

Curio Electro #125

]]> 5433 no 1108: LuAnn Featured: Small Business Sweet Spot: Beyond Blending In – The LuAnn Nigara Approach to Business Distinction Today With Barb Davids (Small Business Sweet Spot): If you've ever heard me say, “Excellence is a decision,” then you already know I mean it with every fiber of my being. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Barb Davids on her podcast, Small Business Sweet Spot, to talk all about that exact idea—what it takes to build a business with intention, how systems create consistency, and why knowing your mission, vision, and values isn’t optional... It's essential. We got into the nitty-gritty of how I built my businesses, what makes a strong personal brand, and how creative entrepreneurs (like you!) can stand out in a noisy, saturated market. This episode is packed with real stories, tangible strategies, and a whole lot of “tough love wrapped in motivation.” If you’re ready to stop playing small and start showing up as the powerhouse leader your business needs, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen in, take notes, and as always—decide to be excellent. ⁠Check the Small Business Sweet Spot Podcast!⁠ My favorite snippet from LuAnn in this interview is her Snickers analogy to a distinct business. I'm not even gonna summarize it. You'll have to hear it yourself around the :25 minute mark. In this episode of Small Business Sweet Spot, LuAnn Nigara, a powerhouse in the creative business world, shares her years of entrepreneurial experience as the host of the "A Well-Designed Business" podcast, author of multiple best-selling books, and co-owner of an award-winning window treatment retailer. Our conversation covered what it truly means when LuAnn says "excellence is a decision" and how service-based business owners can stand out in saturated markets. 👉 For all the links and resources mentioned in this episode, check out the supporting blog post here. 🗞️ Newsletter - Digital Marketing Takeaway If SEO feels overwhelming and like a different language and you want more traffic and leads, then my SEO Power-Up Plan is for you. It's a unique service designed to show you the traffic you’re missing out on and how that missed traffic translates to sales. You’ll get a clear look at what’s working, what’s not, and where you can focus for better SEO results. Head to this link to get your SEO Power-Up Plan. Fri, 25 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Barb Davids (Small Business Sweet Spot): If you've ever heard me say, “Excellence is a decision,” then you already know I mean it with every fiber of my being. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Barb Davids on her podcast, Small Business Sweet Spot, to talk all about that exact idea—what it takes to build a business with intention, how systems create consistency, and why knowing your mission, vision, and values isn’t optional... It's essential. We got into the nitty-gritty of how I built my businesses, what makes a strong personal brand, and how creative entrepreneurs (like you!) can stand out in a noisy, saturated market. This episode is packed with real stories, tangible strategies, and a whole lot of “tough love wrapped in motivation.” If you’re ready to stop playing small and start showing up as the powerhouse leader your business needs, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen in, take notes, and as always—decide to be excellent. ⁠Check the Small Business Sweet Spot Podcast!⁠ My favorite snippet from LuAnn in this interview is her Snickers analogy to a distinct business. I'm not even gonna summarize it. You'll have to hear it yourself around the :25 minute mark. In this episode of Small Business Sweet Spot, LuAnn Nigara, a powerhouse in the creative business world, shares her years of entrepreneurial experience as the host of the "A Well-Designed Business" podcast, author of multiple best-selling books, and co-owner of an award-winning window treatment retailer. Our conversation covered what it truly means when LuAnn says "excellence is a decision" and how service-based business owners can stand out in saturated markets. 👉 For all the links and resources mentioned in this episode, check out the supporting blog post here. 🗞️ Newsletter - Digital Marketing Takeaway If SEO feels overwhelming and like a different language and you want more traffic and leads, then my SEO Power-Up Plan is for you. It's a unique service designed to show you the traffic you’re missing out on and how that missed traffic translates to sales. You’ll get a clear look at what’s working, what’s not, and where you can focus for better SEO results. Head to this link to get your SEO Power-Up Plan. Today With Barb Davids (Small Business Sweet Spot):

If you've ever heard me say, “Excellence is a decision,” then you already know I mean it with every fiber of my being. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Barb Davids on her podcast, Small Business Sweet Spot, to talk all about that exact idea—what it takes to build a business with intention, how systems create consistency, and why knowing your mission, vision, and values isn’t optional... It's essential.

We got into the nitty-gritty of how I built my businesses, what makes a strong personal brand, and how creative entrepreneurs (like you!) can stand out in a noisy, saturated market. This episode is packed with real stories, tangible strategies, and a whole lot of “tough love wrapped in motivation.”

If you’re ready to stop playing small and start showing up as the powerhouse leader your business needs, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen in, take notes, and as always—decide to be excellent.


⁠Check the Small Business Sweet Spot Podcast!⁠

My favorite snippet from LuAnn in this interview is her Snickers analogy to a distinct business. I'm not even gonna summarize it. You'll have to hear it yourself around the :25 minute mark.

In this episode of Small Business Sweet Spot, LuAnn Nigara, a powerhouse in the creative business world, shares her years of entrepreneurial experience as the host of the "A Well-Designed Business" podcast, author of multiple best-selling books, and co-owner of an award-winning window treatment retailer. Our conversation covered what it truly means when LuAnn says "excellence is a decision" and how service-based business owners can stand out in saturated markets.

👉 For all the links and resources mentioned in this episode, check out the supporting blog post here.

🗞️ Newsletter - Digital Marketing Takeaway

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]]> 2412 no 1107: NEW SHOW: Jay Jeffers: Beyond Pretty — Building a Profitable Luxury Design Business Today With Jay Jeffers: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Every day as a business owner is full of decisions—and while there are not always hard-and-fast rules, how you approach your decisions is a good indicator of how successful your business is going to be. Today, I’m joined by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers. Celebrating 25 years in the industry, Jay shares the business philosophies that have sustained his A-list firm, including his approach to pricing and profitability, the lessons learned from navigating economic downturns, and his thoughts on building a team and a legacy for the future. LuAnn Nigara and Jay Jeffers’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I did everything myself... I finished this project. Did this project make me any money? Look, how much did I spend on myself? Was the profit enough? Was the markup enough?" -Jay "It's 25 years later, I'm still defending my value. You are valuable, and what you are giving to somebody is worth money that they're going to pay you." -Jay "It can't just be, 'Okay, there's money in the checkbook afterwards,' right? Because you can't get better. If you have money in the checkbook and you don't analyze it, you can't make the corrections." -LuAnn More About Jay Jeffers Jay Jeffers is the founder of JayJeffers Inc., coowner and designer of The Madrona, a boutique hotel and restaurant in Healdsburg, CA, and a celebrated interior designer known for creating luxurious, livable spaces with soul. At his renowned design firm, JayJeffers Inc., Jay offers a full range of concept-to installation services including interior architecture, custom furniture design, art and antiques acquisitions and decoration, expertly curating homes all over California, New York, Texas, Florida and beyond. Jay has authored two books, Collected Cool and Be Bold, received numerous honors including being named to Elle Décor’s A-list, and is regularly featured in notable shelter magazines, national newspapers, and show houses. Jay has also designed a fine line of architectural hardware for Accurate Lock & Hardware and three collections with Arteriors. Connect with Jay Jeffers Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studios What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Head to Mydoma Studios and get 20% off your first three months Other Shows: AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jay Jeffers: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Every day as a business owner is full of decisions—and while there are not always hard-and-fast rules, how you approach your decisions is a good indicator of how successful your business is going to be. Today, I’m joined by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers. Celebrating 25 years in the industry, Jay shares the business philosophies that have sustained his A-list firm, including his approach to pricing and profitability, the lessons learned from navigating economic downturns, and his thoughts on building a team and a legacy for the future. LuAnn Nigara and Jay Jeffers’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I did everything myself... I finished this project. Did this project make me any money? Look, how much did I spend on myself? Was the profit enough? Was the markup enough?" -Jay "It's 25 years later, I'm still defending my value. You are valuable, and what you are giving to somebody is worth money that they're going to pay you." -Jay "It can't just be, 'Okay, there's money in the checkbook afterwards,' right? Because you can't get better. If you have money in the checkbook and you don't analyze it, you can't make the corrections." -LuAnn More About Jay Jeffers Jay Jeffers is the founder of JayJeffers Inc., coowner and designer of The Madrona, a boutique hotel and restaurant in Healdsburg, CA, and a celebrated interior designer known for creating luxurious, livable spaces with soul. At his renowned design firm, JayJeffers Inc., Jay offers a full range of concept-to installation services including interior architecture, custom furniture design, art and antiques acquisitions and decoration, expertly curating homes all over California, New York, Texas, Florida and beyond. Jay has authored two books, Collected Cool and Be Bold, received numerous honors including being named to Elle Décor’s A-list, and is regularly featured in notable shelter magazines, national newspapers, and show houses. Jay has also designed a fine line of architectural hardware for Accurate Lock & Hardware and three collections with Arteriors. Connect with Jay Jeffers Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studios What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Head to Mydoma Studios and get 20% off your first three months Other Shows: AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business Today With Jay Jeffers:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Every day as a business owner is full of decisions—and while there are not always hard-and-fast rules, how you approach your decisions is a good indicator of how successful your business is going to be.

Today, I’m joined by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers. Celebrating 25 years in the industry, Jay shares the business philosophies that have sustained his A-list firm, including his approach to pricing and profitability, the lessons learned from navigating economic downturns, and his thoughts on building a team and a legacy for the future.


LuAnn Nigara and Jay Jeffers’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I did everything myself... I finished this project. Did this project make me any money? Look, how much did I spend on myself? Was the profit enough? Was the markup enough?" -Jay

"It's 25 years later, I'm still defending my value. You are valuable, and what you are giving to somebody is worth money that they're going to pay you." -Jay

"It can't just be, 'Okay, there's money in the checkbook afterwards,' right? Because you can't get better. If you have money in the checkbook and you don't analyze it, you can't make the corrections." -LuAnn


More About Jay Jeffers

Jay Jeffers is the founder of JayJeffers Inc., coowner and designer of The Madrona, a boutique hotel and restaurant in Healdsburg, CA, and a celebrated interior designer known for creating luxurious, livable spaces with

soul. At his renowned design firm, JayJeffers Inc., Jay offers a full range of concept-to installation services including interior architecture, custom furniture design, art and antiques acquisitions and decoration, expertly curating homes all over California, New York, Texas, Florida and beyond. Jay has authored two books, Collected Cool and Be Bold, received numerous honors including being named to Elle Décor’s A-list, and is regularly featured in notable shelter magazines, national newspapers, and show houses. Jay has also designed a fine line of architectural hardware for Accurate Lock & Hardware and three collections with Arteriors.


Connect with Jay Jeffers

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studios


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Head to Mydoma Studios and get 20% off your first three months


Other Shows: AWDB #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3800 no 1106: Best Of Show: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success Today With Julia Marcum: You are in for a treat with this re-air of one of my favorite conversations—with the fabulous Julia Marcum, one half of the powerhouse DIY duo behind Chris Loves Julia. Julia has been blogging for over a decade, and together with her husband Chris, they've built a wildly successful brand grounded in authenticity, creativity, and their unwavering "why." In this episode, Julia shares how they transitioned from a personal blog to a full-time business that inspires millions. We talk about what it means to know who you're serving and why that clarity drives everything—from content creation to partnerships to staying motivated through tough seasons. Heads up: If you love this episode, go listen to Ep. 1048 with Melanie Lybrand, where we dig into the mindset shifts around pricing and worth. It’s another heart-opening convo that pairs beautifully with this one. More About Julia Marcum Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more. Connect with Julia Marcum Website: Chris Loves Julia Instagram: Chris Loves Julia Propertee: Chris Loves Julia Facebook: Chris Loves Julia Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia Youtube: Chris Loves Julia Good Influencer Good Influencer on Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Jessica Helgerson Interior Design Instagram: Josh young Design House Other Shows: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174 Fri, 18 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Julia Marcum: You are in for a treat with this re-air of one of my favorite conversations—with the fabulous Julia Marcum, one half of the powerhouse DIY duo behind Chris Loves Julia. Julia has been blogging for over a decade, and together with her husband Chris, they've built a wildly successful brand grounded in authenticity, creativity, and their unwavering "why." In this episode, Julia shares how they transitioned from a personal blog to a full-time business that inspires millions. We talk about what it means to know who you're serving and why that clarity drives everything—from content creation to partnerships to staying motivated through tough seasons. Heads up: If you love this episode, go listen to Ep. 1048 with Melanie Lybrand, where we dig into the mindset shifts around pricing and worth. It’s another heart-opening convo that pairs beautifully with this one. More About Julia Marcum Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more. Connect with Julia Marcum Website: Chris Loves Julia Instagram: Chris Loves Julia Propertee: Chris Loves Julia Facebook: Chris Loves Julia Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia Youtube: Chris Loves Julia Good Influencer Good Influencer on Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Jessica Helgerson Interior Design Instagram: Josh young Design House Other Shows: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174 Today With Julia Marcum:

You are in for a treat with this re-air of one of my favorite conversations—with the fabulous Julia Marcum, one half of the powerhouse DIY duo behind Chris Loves Julia. Julia has been blogging for over a decade, and together with her husband Chris, they've built a wildly successful brand grounded in authenticity, creativity, and their unwavering "why."

In this episode, Julia shares how they transitioned from a personal blog to a full-time business that inspires millions. We talk about what it means to know who you're serving and why that clarity drives everything—from content creation to partnerships to staying motivated through tough seasons.

Heads up: If you love this episode, go listen to Ep. 1048 with Melanie Lybrand, where we dig into the mindset shifts around pricing and worth. It’s another heart-opening convo that pairs beautifully with this one.


More About Julia Marcum

Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more.


Connect with Julia Marcum

Website: Chris Loves Julia

Instagram: Chris Loves Julia

Propertee: Chris Loves Julia

Facebook: Chris Loves Julia

Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia

Youtube: Chris Loves Julia

Good Influencer

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A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order

Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

Instagram: Josh young Design House


Other Shows:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shea McGee #236, #270

Amber Lewis #169, #184

Nicole Heymer #125, #466

Jamie Lieberman #454

Fred Berns #22, #174

]]> 4850 no 1105: LuAnn Featured: Resilient by Design: Visualize your way to success with LuAnn Nigara Today With Rebecca Hay (Resilient by Design): You know I’m usually the one asking the questions—but in this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting on the other side of the mic as a guest on Resilient by Design, hosted by my friend and fellow podcaster Rebecca Hay. Let me tell you—it was such a fun, thoughtful, and energizing conversation. We talked about all the things I love most: how to build a strong, profitable business, why you must know your numbers, and yes—why markup is not optional in this business. (Seriously, if Baskin-Robbins gets a markup on ice cream, why wouldn’t you as a designer?) Rebecca shared how A Well-Designed Business® helped her back in the early days of running her firm—and I was truly touched. And of course, we got into the mindset work that really separates successful entrepreneurs from the ones still spinning in circles. I’m so excited to re-air this episode for you. Big hugs to Rebecca for inviting me and allowing me to share it with all of you here. ⁠Check the Resilient by Design Podcast!⁠ Today is one for the books! I am thrilled to speak with the Queen of podcasting herself, LuAnn Nigara, and bask in her wisdom. LuAnn describes her inspirational career trajectory and how her business has evolved in the last 4 decades. She shares nugget after nugget of wisdom as she highlights the importance of quieting down, cultivating an inner voice, visualizing goals and how to listen to that intuition (and a few select advisors) to move forward into success. I am beyond excited and inspired after this conversation and I know you will feel the same, a perfect introduction into 2024! LuAnn Nigara Website Instagram LuAnn University LuAnn’s Podcast Network A Well-Designed Business® Window Treatments For Profit with LuAnn Nigara The Inner Edit: Wellness for Digital Creators podcast. New England Home and Interiors The Silva Method This episode is sponsored by Devix Kitchens Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Rebecca Hay (Resilient by Design): You know I’m usually the one asking the questions—but in this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting on the other side of the mic as a guest on Resilient by Design, hosted by my friend and fellow podcaster Rebecca Hay. Let me tell you—it was such a fun, thoughtful, and energizing conversation. We talked about all the things I love most: how to build a strong, profitable business, why you must know your numbers, and yes—why markup is not optional in this business. (Seriously, if Baskin-Robbins gets a markup on ice cream, why wouldn’t you as a designer?) Rebecca shared how A Well-Designed Business® helped her back in the early days of running her firm—and I was truly touched. And of course, we got into the mindset work that really separates successful entrepreneurs from the ones still spinning in circles. I’m so excited to re-air this episode for you. Big hugs to Rebecca for inviting me and allowing me to share it with all of you here. ⁠Check the Resilient by Design Podcast!⁠ Today is one for the books! I am thrilled to speak with the Queen of podcasting herself, LuAnn Nigara, and bask in her wisdom. LuAnn describes her inspirational career trajectory and how her business has evolved in the last 4 decades. She shares nugget after nugget of wisdom as she highlights the importance of quieting down, cultivating an inner voice, visualizing goals and how to listen to that intuition (and a few select advisors) to move forward into success. I am beyond excited and inspired after this conversation and I know you will feel the same, a perfect introduction into 2024! LuAnn Nigara Website Instagram LuAnn University LuAnn’s Podcast Network A Well-Designed Business® Window Treatments For Profit with LuAnn Nigara The Inner Edit: Wellness for Digital Creators podcast. New England Home and Interiors The Silva Method This episode is sponsored by Devix Kitchens Today With Rebecca Hay (Resilient by Design):

You know I’m usually the one asking the questions—but in this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting on the other side of the mic as a guest on Resilient by Design, hosted by my friend and fellow podcaster Rebecca Hay.

Let me tell you—it was such a fun, thoughtful, and energizing conversation. We talked about all the things I love most: how to build a strong, profitable business, why you must know your numbers, and yes—why markup is not optional in this business. (Seriously, if Baskin-Robbins gets a markup on ice cream, why wouldn’t you as a designer?)

Rebecca shared how A Well-Designed Business® helped her back in the early days of running her firm—and I was truly touched. And of course, we got into the mindset work that really separates successful entrepreneurs from the ones still spinning in circles.

I’m so excited to re-air this episode for you. Big hugs to Rebecca for inviting me and allowing me to share it with all of you here.


⁠Check the Resilient by Design Podcast!⁠

Today is one for the books! I am thrilled to speak with the Queen of podcasting herself, LuAnn Nigara, and bask in her wisdom.

LuAnn describes her inspirational career trajectory and how her business has evolved in the last 4 decades. She shares nugget after nugget of wisdom as she highlights the importance of quieting down, cultivating an inner voice, visualizing goals and how to listen to that intuition (and a few select advisors) to move forward into success. I am beyond excited and inspired after this conversation and I know you will feel the same, a perfect introduction into 2024!

LuAnn Nigara

Website

Instagram

LuAnn University

LuAnn’s Podcast Network

New England Home and Interiors

The Silva Method

This episode is sponsored by Devix Kitchens

]]> 4237 no 1104: Corey Damen Jenkins: How He Manages Imposter Syndrome and Builds Client Loyalty in Design Today With Corey Damen Jenkins: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn welcomes back Corey Damen Jenkins—AD100 designer, author, and creative powerhouse—for a conversation that goes far beyond beautiful rooms. Corey shares the intentional strategies behind his new book, Design Reimagined, and his groundbreaking new streaming series, Design Reimagined. From creating instant rapport with clients, to managing imposter syndrome like a seasoned pro, Corey offers tactical insights every designer and creative professional needs. You'll learn how to build deeper client relationships, set confident boundaries, and protect your emotional "enamel" in a demanding industry. Whether you're scaling your business or simply finding your voice, Corey’s wisdom will inspire you to show up smarter, stronger, and more authentically in your work. Pre-order your copy of Design Reimagined today, and don’t miss the premiere of Design Reimagined on YouTube starting May 15th! More About Corey Damen Jenkins Corey Damen Jenkins is the principal and chief executive officer of Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates, an internationally acclaimed interior design and architecture firm based in New York City. Celebrated for its deft approach to layering sophisticated colors, textures, and patterns to create timeless and iconic spaces, CDJA has been inducted into Architectural Digest’s AD100 and ELLE Décor’s A-List. Corey began his career in interior design in 1996 and founded his own firm in 2008. He has become an influential voice in the world of design due to his compositions of spaces that are authentic, bespoke, and distinctive. With the haute couture fashion runway, historic architecture, and world travels as his chief sources of inspiration, Corey creates tailored spaces that meet the ever-changing needs of his clients. Whether it’s a modern ranch in the mountains of Carmel, a sprawling estate on the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, or an upscale maximalist apartment overlooking Central Park, Corey’s ethos is governed by design democracy and ensuring his clients’ personalities and lifestyles are showcased first and foremost. CDJA is multi-disciplinary in its mission. While designing residential and hospitality projects throughout the United States and beyond is its primary focus, the team has also produced expansive licensed product collections for Kravet, Hancock & Moore, LeftBank Art, and Maitland-Smith. Connect with Corey Damen Jenkins Website Instagram  Facebook  X YouTube Design Reimagined - Book Design Remix - Book Design Reimagined - The Series Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton Fri, 11 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Corey Damen Jenkins: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn welcomes back Corey Damen Jenkins—AD100 designer, author, and creative powerhouse—for a conversation that goes far beyond beautiful rooms. Corey shares the intentional strategies behind his new book, Design Reimagined, and his groundbreaking new streaming series, Design Reimagined. From creating instant rapport with clients, to managing imposter syndrome like a seasoned pro, Corey offers tactical insights every designer and creative professional needs. You'll learn how to build deeper client relationships, set confident boundaries, and protect your emotional "enamel" in a demanding industry. Whether you're scaling your business or simply finding your voice, Corey’s wisdom will inspire you to show up smarter, stronger, and more authentically in your work. Pre-order your copy of Design Reimagined today, and don’t miss the premiere of Design Reimagined on YouTube starting May 15th! More About Corey Damen Jenkins Corey Damen Jenkins is the principal and chief executive officer of Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates, an internationally acclaimed interior design and architecture firm based in New York City. Celebrated for its deft approach to layering sophisticated colors, textures, and patterns to create timeless and iconic spaces, CDJA has been inducted into Architectural Digest’s AD100 and ELLE Décor’s A-List. Corey began his career in interior design in 1996 and founded his own firm in 2008. He has become an influential voice in the world of design due to his compositions of spaces that are authentic, bespoke, and distinctive. With the haute couture fashion runway, historic architecture, and world travels as his chief sources of inspiration, Corey creates tailored spaces that meet the ever-changing needs of his clients. Whether it’s a modern ranch in the mountains of Carmel, a sprawling estate on the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, or an upscale maximalist apartment overlooking Central Park, Corey’s ethos is governed by design democracy and ensuring his clients’ personalities and lifestyles are showcased first and foremost. CDJA is multi-disciplinary in its mission. While designing residential and hospitality projects throughout the United States and beyond is its primary focus, the team has also produced expansive licensed product collections for Kravet, Hancock & Moore, LeftBank Art, and Maitland-Smith. Connect with Corey Damen Jenkins Website Instagram  Facebook  X YouTube Design Reimagined - Book Design Remix - Book Design Reimagined - The Series Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton Today With Corey Damen Jenkins:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn welcomes back Corey Damen Jenkins—AD100 designer, author, and creative powerhouse—for a conversation that goes far beyond beautiful rooms. Corey shares the intentional strategies behind his new book, Design Reimagined, and his groundbreaking new streaming series, Design Reimagined.

From creating instant rapport with clients, to managing imposter syndrome like a seasoned pro, Corey offers tactical insights every designer and creative professional needs. You'll learn how to build deeper client relationships, set confident boundaries, and protect your emotional "enamel" in a demanding industry.

Whether you're scaling your business or simply finding your voice, Corey’s wisdom will inspire you to show up smarter, stronger, and more authentically in your work.

Pre-order your copy of Design Reimagined today, and don’t miss the premiere of Design Reimagined on YouTube starting May 15th!


More About Corey Damen Jenkins

Corey Damen Jenkins is the principal and chief executive officer of Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates, an internationally acclaimed interior design and architecture firm based in New York City. Celebrated for its deft approach to layering sophisticated colors, textures, and patterns to create timeless and iconic spaces, CDJA has been inducted into Architectural Digest’s AD100 and ELLE Décor’s A-List.

Corey began his career in interior design in 1996 and founded his own firm in 2008. He has become an influential voice in the world of design due to his compositions of spaces that are authentic, bespoke, and distinctive. With the haute couture fashion runway, historic architecture, and world travels as his chief sources of inspiration, Corey creates tailored spaces that meet the ever-changing needs of his clients. Whether it’s a modern ranch in the mountains of Carmel, a sprawling estate on the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, or an upscale maximalist apartment overlooking Central Park, Corey’s ethos is governed by design democracy and ensuring his clients’ personalities and lifestyles are showcased first and foremost.

CDJA is multi-disciplinary in its mission. While designing residential and hospitality projects throughout the United States and beyond is its primary focus, the team has also produced expansive licensed product collections for Kravet, Hancock & Moore, LeftBank Art, and Maitland-Smith.


Connect with Corey Damen Jenkins

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

X

YouTube

Design Reimagined - Book

Design Remix - Book

Design Reimagined - The Series

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠

Other Shows:

AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton

]]> 4396 no 1103: Best Of Show: Kim Dawson: Are You Charging Enough? Today With Kim Dawson: Are you charging enough to actually turn a profit? In this episode, I sit down with Kim Dawson—business strategist and pricing expert—to tackle the one thing too many entrepreneurs skip: how to create a pricing formula that sets you up for success. If you’ve ever said “I don’t know what I should be making,” or “I have no idea if I can afford to hire,” this episode is your wake-up call. Kim brings her no-nonsense strategy for building a plan that supports both your life and your business. Learn how to define your financial goals, map your income targets, and finally stop guessing your way through pricing. More About Kim Dawson Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim’s experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses. Connect with Kim Dawson⁠ Website A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Krista Coupar #60 Kim Merlitti #361 and #442 Alinda Morris #429 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Michele Williams #395 Kae Whitaker #114 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Kim Dawson: Are you charging enough to actually turn a profit? In this episode, I sit down with Kim Dawson—business strategist and pricing expert—to tackle the one thing too many entrepreneurs skip: how to create a pricing formula that sets you up for success. If you’ve ever said “I don’t know what I should be making,” or “I have no idea if I can afford to hire,” this episode is your wake-up call. Kim brings her no-nonsense strategy for building a plan that supports both your life and your business. Learn how to define your financial goals, map your income targets, and finally stop guessing your way through pricing. More About Kim Dawson Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim’s experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses. Connect with Kim Dawson⁠ Website A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Krista Coupar #60 Kim Merlitti #361 and #442 Alinda Morris #429 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Michele Williams #395 Kae Whitaker #114 Today With Kim Dawson:

Are you charging enough to actually turn a profit? In this episode, I sit down with Kim Dawson—business strategist and pricing expert—to tackle the one thing too many entrepreneurs skip: how to create a pricing formula that sets you up for success.

If you’ve ever said “I don’t know what I should be making,” or “I have no idea if I can afford to hire,” this episode is your wake-up call. Kim brings her no-nonsense strategy for building a plan that supports both your life and your business. Learn how to define your financial goals, map your income targets, and finally stop guessing your way through pricing.


More About Kim Dawson

Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim’s experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses.


Connect with Kim Dawson⁠ Website

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order


Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

Krista Coupar #60

Kim Merlitti #361 and #442

Alinda Morris #429

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Michele Williams #395

Kae Whitaker #114

]]> 4263 no 1102: LuAnn Featured: Only Girl on the Jobsite: LuAnn Nigara on Leadership, Profitability, and Owning Your Role Today With Renee Bier (Only Girl on the Jobsite): Today, I’m bringing you something a little different—and extra special. This episode originally aired on Only Girl on the Jobsite with my friend Renee Biery, and now I’m thrilled to share it right here on A Well-Designed Business®. Renee invited me on her show to dig into one of my favorite topics: leadership in interior design, especially when it comes to managing construction projects. We tackled the tough stuff—what leadership really looks like on the jobsite, why so many designers shy away from it, and how to step into your power to protect your profit, your timeline, and your reputation. You’ll hear some classic LuAnn straight talk, but also the heart of what I’ve seen over 40+ years in business: that leadership is a choice—and a critical one if you want to run a profitable firm. This conversation is packed with strategy, a few rabbit holes (the fun kind), and actionable insights that will shift the way you show up as the CEO of your business. Whether you're new to construction management or you’ve been around the block, there's something here for you. And if you missed my original conversation with Renee, this is your chance to catch it now—right here in your AWDB feed. Check the Only Girl on the Jobsite Podcast! I am honored to host LuAnn Nigara today to talk all about leadership in our industry, the struggles and the underlying reasons why stepping into leadership is so critical for the health and profitability of our business. LuAnn Nigara is a celebrated media personality, keynote speaker and seasoned entrepreneur. Recognized as the “go-to” keynote speaker for leaders and entrepreneurs to launch their life and get out of their own way, she always delivers a dynamic presentation. In her third business launch, LuAnn Nigara Inc., she provides business resources for entrepreneurs through live events and LuAnn University. LuAnn has published three books, is a sought-after columnist and has captured international attention for her weekly podcasts “Window Treatments for Profit” and “A Well-Designed Business®” which has more than 1000 episodes and 9 million downloads. LuAnn shares her story of how she started her podcast, The Well-Designed Business® for designers when her business was a window treatment specialist and why she decided to lean into us crazy designers and this crazy industry of ours. “The more authority, the more expertise that you can gain in a particular area, the more impact you can have.” says LuAnn. LuAnn knew she didn’t want to start a podcast as a hobby, it was going to be her business. She was going all in. She did a deep dive and spent several weeks researching and time spent figuring out what she could talk about and not get bored of. “Because you can’t just pick a topic and then do all of this work to set up all of the technical, the background and all of the infrastructure and then be like, well, seven of those conversations and I’m done. And so I was exploring all the things that were interesting to me as a human, as a person, as a window treatment professional, everything. And what I knew was interesting to me was business.” shared LuAnn. “That’s what I can talk about all day, every day. Whether it’s your business as a designer, your business as a window treatment person, your business as a bricklayer, your business as a digital marketer, it’s there’s marketing in there, there’s sales in there, there’s operations in there, there’s finance in there, there’s so many critical things that have to be understood well enough and two or three areas that you have to be a master at in order for all of it to coalesce and become a profitable business.” says LuAnn Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Renee Bier (Only Girl on the Jobsite): Today, I’m bringing you something a little different—and extra special. This episode originally aired on Only Girl on the Jobsite with my friend Renee Biery, and now I’m thrilled to share it right here on A Well-Designed Business®. Renee invited me on her show to dig into one of my favorite topics: leadership in interior design, especially when it comes to managing construction projects. We tackled the tough stuff—what leadership really looks like on the jobsite, why so many designers shy away from it, and how to step into your power to protect your profit, your timeline, and your reputation. You’ll hear some classic LuAnn straight talk, but also the heart of what I’ve seen over 40+ years in business: that leadership is a choice—and a critical one if you want to run a profitable firm. This conversation is packed with strategy, a few rabbit holes (the fun kind), and actionable insights that will shift the way you show up as the CEO of your business. Whether you're new to construction management or you’ve been around the block, there's something here for you. And if you missed my original conversation with Renee, this is your chance to catch it now—right here in your AWDB feed. Check the Only Girl on the Jobsite Podcast! I am honored to host LuAnn Nigara today to talk all about leadership in our industry, the struggles and the underlying reasons why stepping into leadership is so critical for the health and profitability of our business. LuAnn Nigara is a celebrated media personality, keynote speaker and seasoned entrepreneur. Recognized as the “go-to” keynote speaker for leaders and entrepreneurs to launch their life and get out of their own way, she always delivers a dynamic presentation. In her third business launch, LuAnn Nigara Inc., she provides business resources for entrepreneurs through live events and LuAnn University. LuAnn has published three books, is a sought-after columnist and has captured international attention for her weekly podcasts “Window Treatments for Profit” and “A Well-Designed Business®” which has more than 1000 episodes and 9 million downloads. LuAnn shares her story of how she started her podcast, The Well-Designed Business® for designers when her business was a window treatment specialist and why she decided to lean into us crazy designers and this crazy industry of ours. “The more authority, the more expertise that you can gain in a particular area, the more impact you can have.” says LuAnn. LuAnn knew she didn’t want to start a podcast as a hobby, it was going to be her business. She was going all in. She did a deep dive and spent several weeks researching and time spent figuring out what she could talk about and not get bored of. “Because you can’t just pick a topic and then do all of this work to set up all of the technical, the background and all of the infrastructure and then be like, well, seven of those conversations and I’m done. And so I was exploring all the things that were interesting to me as a human, as a person, as a window treatment professional, everything. And what I knew was interesting to me was business.” shared LuAnn. “That’s what I can talk about all day, every day. Whether it’s your business as a designer, your business as a window treatment person, your business as a bricklayer, your business as a digital marketer, it’s there’s marketing in there, there’s sales in there, there’s operations in there, there’s finance in there, there’s so many critical things that have to be understood well enough and two or three areas that you have to be a master at in order for all of it to coalesce and become a profitable business.” says LuAnn Today With Renee Bier (Only Girl on the Jobsite):

Today, I’m bringing you something a little different—and extra special. This episode originally aired on Only Girl on the Jobsite with my friend Renee Biery, and now I’m thrilled to share it right here on A Well-Designed Business®.

Renee invited me on her show to dig into one of my favorite topics: leadership in interior design, especially when it comes to managing construction projects. We tackled the tough stuff—what leadership really looks like on the jobsite, why so many designers shy away from it, and how to step into your power to protect your profit, your timeline, and your reputation.

You’ll hear some classic LuAnn straight talk, but also the heart of what I’ve seen over 40+ years in business: that leadership is a choice—and a critical one if you want to run a profitable firm.

This conversation is packed with strategy, a few rabbit holes (the fun kind), and actionable insights that will shift the way you show up as the CEO of your business. Whether you're new to construction management or you’ve been around the block, there's something here for you.

And if you missed my original conversation with Renee, this is your chance to catch it now—right here in your AWDB feed.


Check the Only Girl on the Jobsite Podcast!

I am honored to host LuAnn Nigara today to talk all about leadership in our industry, the struggles and the underlying reasons why stepping into leadership is so critical for the health and profitability of our business.

LuAnn Nigara is a celebrated media personality, keynote speaker and seasoned entrepreneur. Recognized as the “go-to” keynote speaker for leaders and entrepreneurs to launch their life and get out of their own way, she always delivers a dynamic presentation. In her third business launch, LuAnn Nigara Inc., she provides business resources for entrepreneurs through live events and LuAnn University. LuAnn has published three books, is a sought-after columnist and has captured international attention for her weekly podcasts “Window Treatments for Profit” and “A Well-Designed Business®” which has more than 1000 episodes and 9 million downloads.


LuAnn shares her story of how she started her podcast, The Well-Designed Business® for designers when her business was a window treatment specialist and why she decided to lean into us crazy designers and this crazy industry of ours.

“The more authority, the more expertise that you can gain in a particular area, the more impact you can have.” says LuAnn.


LuAnn knew she didn’t want to start a podcast as a hobby, it was going to be her business. She was going all in. She did a deep dive and spent several weeks researching and time spent figuring out what she could talk about and not get bored of.

“Because you can’t just pick a topic and then do all of this work to set up all of the technical, the background and all of the infrastructure and then be like, well, seven of those conversations and I’m done. And so I was exploring all the things that were interesting to me as a human, as a person, as a window treatment professional, everything. And what I knew was interesting to me was business.” shared LuAnn.

“That’s what I can talk about all day, every day. Whether it’s your business as a designer, your business as a window treatment person, your business as a bricklayer, your business as a digital marketer, it’s there’s marketing in there, there’s sales in there, there’s operations in there, there’s finance in there, there’s so many critical things that have to be understood well enough and two or three areas that you have to be a master at in order for all of it to coalesce and become a profitable business.” says LuAnn

]]> 5447 no 1101: NEW SHOW: Rachael Johanson: Build a Design Brand That Commands Prestige and Profit Today With Rachael Johanson: Today with Rachael Johanson, luxury brand strategist, we explore transitioning from mid-market to luxury positioning in design. Rachael shares how she's evolved her business to focus on five high-touch Brand Launch Weekend clients annually, helping designers move from 30 projects a year to 10 at double the budget. We discuss the language shifts that separate luxury messaging from mid-market positioning, why "we and you" marketing works against you in the luxury space, and how your headshots might be sabotaging your expert positioning. Rachael reveals that 80% of designers are "sitting on gold" in their portfolios but haven't claimed their expertise, and shares her approach to identifying your niche through past project patterns. This episode is essential listening for designers ready to position themselves for fewer, bigger, better projects. LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Johanson’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I've heard so many women say that they lose themselves in motherhood. And I'm like, I want to gain myself. I really do. And I want to have this new dimension of myself. I really, and I'm like always thinking about this idea of like, I want Lida to live in the arena." - Rachael “We didn't save the $300,000 difference between the first one and the second one by going with the lesser expensive one. We blew the $750,000 on the one who didn't deliver." - LuAnn "You cannot be a designer for everyone and be the designer that's at the top of your market." - Rachael "I don't build brands that fit in—I build brands that get remembered and are super profitable." - Rachael More About Rachael Johanson When you think of building a multi-million dollar personal brand you think of Rachael Johanson. From the stages of Harvard Business School, to pages of Architectural Digest, Rachael is regarded as the in-demand Luxury Strategist for interior designers seeking fewer, better and bigger clients. Think - being positioned as the “go-to” call in your area for luxury new builds, press in House Beautiful, speaking on a panel at High Point Market, and a partnership with a custom builder filling the pipeline for you. Her clients range from design leaders such as Kathy Kuo, Sandra Funk, Arianne Bellizaire, Sara Lynn Brennan to LuAnn Nigara, not to mention tons of incredibly talented up and comers with a deep desire and passion to build a luxury firm and skip the learning curve. Rachael is incredibly selective in the client personalities she serves, as the majority double their sales and opportunities two years after her esteemed advising. As a lifelong student of design & fashion, Rachael studied at High Point University, is a licensed realtor and noted tastemaker. Most recently, her wedding was covered by The New York Times and Vogue. Connect with Rachael Johanson Website Instagram LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Rachael Johanson Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ Other Shows: #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Rachael Johanson: Today with Rachael Johanson, luxury brand strategist, we explore transitioning from mid-market to luxury positioning in design. Rachael shares how she's evolved her business to focus on five high-touch Brand Launch Weekend clients annually, helping designers move from 30 projects a year to 10 at double the budget. We discuss the language shifts that separate luxury messaging from mid-market positioning, why "we and you" marketing works against you in the luxury space, and how your headshots might be sabotaging your expert positioning. Rachael reveals that 80% of designers are "sitting on gold" in their portfolios but haven't claimed their expertise, and shares her approach to identifying your niche through past project patterns. This episode is essential listening for designers ready to position themselves for fewer, bigger, better projects. LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Johanson’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I've heard so many women say that they lose themselves in motherhood. And I'm like, I want to gain myself. I really do. And I want to have this new dimension of myself. I really, and I'm like always thinking about this idea of like, I want Lida to live in the arena." - Rachael “We didn't save the $300,000 difference between the first one and the second one by going with the lesser expensive one. We blew the $750,000 on the one who didn't deliver." - LuAnn "You cannot be a designer for everyone and be the designer that's at the top of your market." - Rachael "I don't build brands that fit in—I build brands that get remembered and are super profitable." - Rachael More About Rachael Johanson When you think of building a multi-million dollar personal brand you think of Rachael Johanson. From the stages of Harvard Business School, to pages of Architectural Digest, Rachael is regarded as the in-demand Luxury Strategist for interior designers seeking fewer, better and bigger clients. Think - being positioned as the “go-to” call in your area for luxury new builds, press in House Beautiful, speaking on a panel at High Point Market, and a partnership with a custom builder filling the pipeline for you. Her clients range from design leaders such as Kathy Kuo, Sandra Funk, Arianne Bellizaire, Sara Lynn Brennan to LuAnn Nigara, not to mention tons of incredibly talented up and comers with a deep desire and passion to build a luxury firm and skip the learning curve. Rachael is incredibly selective in the client personalities she serves, as the majority double their sales and opportunities two years after her esteemed advising. As a lifelong student of design & fashion, Rachael studied at High Point University, is a licensed realtor and noted tastemaker. Most recently, her wedding was covered by The New York Times and Vogue. Connect with Rachael Johanson Website Instagram LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Rachael Johanson Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ Other Shows: #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design Today With Rachael Johanson:

Today with Rachael Johanson, luxury brand strategist, we explore transitioning from mid-market to luxury positioning in design. Rachael shares how she's evolved her business to focus on five high-touch Brand Launch Weekend clients annually, helping designers move from 30 projects a year to 10 at double the budget. We discuss the language shifts that separate luxury messaging from mid-market positioning, why "we and you" marketing works against you in the luxury space, and how your headshots might be sabotaging your expert positioning.

Rachael reveals that 80% of designers are "sitting on gold" in their portfolios but haven't claimed their expertise, and shares her approach to identifying your niche through past project patterns. This episode is essential listening for designers ready to position themselves for fewer, bigger, better projects.


LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Johanson’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I've heard so many women say that they lose themselves in motherhood. And I'm like, I want to gain myself. I really do. And I want to have this new dimension of myself. I really, and I'm like always thinking about this idea of like, I want Lida to live in the arena." - Rachael

“We didn't save the $300,000 difference between the first one and the second one by going with the lesser expensive one. We blew the $750,000 on the one who didn't deliver." - LuAnn

"You cannot be a designer for everyone and be the designer that's at the top of your market." - Rachael

"I don't build brands that fit in—I build brands that get remembered and are super profitable." - Rachael


More About Rachael Johanson

When you think of building a multi-million dollar personal brand you think of Rachael Johanson.

From the stages of Harvard Business School, to pages of Architectural Digest, Rachael is regarded as the in-demand Luxury Strategist for interior designers seeking fewer, better and bigger clients. Think - being positioned as the “go-to” call in your area for luxury new builds, press in House Beautiful, speaking on a panel at High Point Market, and a partnership with a custom builder filling the pipeline for you.

Her clients range from design leaders such as Kathy Kuo, Sandra Funk, Arianne Bellizaire, Sara Lynn Brennan to LuAnn Nigara, not to mention tons of incredibly talented up and comers with a deep desire and passion to build a luxury firm and skip the learning curve.

Rachael is incredibly selective in the client personalities she serves, as the majority double their sales and opportunities two years after her esteemed advising.

As a lifelong student of design & fashion, Rachael studied at High Point University, is a licensed realtor and noted tastemaker. Most recently, her wedding was covered by The New York Times and Vogue.


Connect with Rachael Johanson

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Rachael Johanson


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠

Other Shows:

#982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients

#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

#651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

]]> 3997 no 1100: Best Of Show: Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today With Erika Ward: In this insightful replay, Erika Ward, a powerhouse designer and former accountant, joins LuAnn to share how her career in finance laid the perfect foundation for a thriving design business. You’ll hear how Erika approached her pivot with strategic clarity, how she grew her audience by serving them consistently, and why understanding your transferrable skills is crucial to long-term success. More About Erika Ward Erika Hollinshead Ward is an acclaimed and published interior and furniture designer, distinguished as the visionary behind Erika Ward Interiors—a design firm and showroom celebrated for seamlessly blending contemporary and classic aesthetics. With a passion for crafting timeless interiors and fostering lifestyle and wellness, Erika has become a sought-after figure among both discerning consumers and reputable brands. Equipped with a robust background in business and finance, coupled with over a decade of experience in the interior design realm, Erika has emerged as a trailblazer in East Coast design, extending her influence to clients nationwide. Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth, leaving a trail of satisfied clients who attest to the team's meticulous attention to detail and client-centric approach. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work. Beyond her successful design ventures, Erika collaborates closely with renowned brands such as Home Depot, High Point Market, ADAC Atlanta, S.C. Johnson and Company, and Rowe Furniture, lending her voice as a spokesperson and brand ambassador in targeted marketing campaigns. Yet, amidst her professional accomplishments, Erika finds her most fulfilling roles in her personal life—as a devoted wife to her husband, Chris, and a nurturing mother to their five children. Connect with Erika Ward Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. Fri, 27 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Erika Ward: In this insightful replay, Erika Ward, a powerhouse designer and former accountant, joins LuAnn to share how her career in finance laid the perfect foundation for a thriving design business. You’ll hear how Erika approached her pivot with strategic clarity, how she grew her audience by serving them consistently, and why understanding your transferrable skills is crucial to long-term success. More About Erika Ward Erika Hollinshead Ward is an acclaimed and published interior and furniture designer, distinguished as the visionary behind Erika Ward Interiors—a design firm and showroom celebrated for seamlessly blending contemporary and classic aesthetics. With a passion for crafting timeless interiors and fostering lifestyle and wellness, Erika has become a sought-after figure among both discerning consumers and reputable brands. Equipped with a robust background in business and finance, coupled with over a decade of experience in the interior design realm, Erika has emerged as a trailblazer in East Coast design, extending her influence to clients nationwide. Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth, leaving a trail of satisfied clients who attest to the team's meticulous attention to detail and client-centric approach. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work. Beyond her successful design ventures, Erika collaborates closely with renowned brands such as Home Depot, High Point Market, ADAC Atlanta, S.C. Johnson and Company, and Rowe Furniture, lending her voice as a spokesperson and brand ambassador in targeted marketing campaigns. Yet, amidst her professional accomplishments, Erika finds her most fulfilling roles in her personal life—as a devoted wife to her husband, Chris, and a nurturing mother to their five children. Connect with Erika Ward Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. Today With Erika Ward:

In this insightful replay, Erika Ward, a powerhouse designer and former accountant, joins LuAnn to share how her career in finance laid the perfect foundation for a thriving design business.

You’ll hear how Erika approached her pivot with strategic clarity, how she grew her audience by serving them consistently, and why understanding your transferrable skills is crucial to long-term success.


More About Erika Ward

Erika Hollinshead Ward is an acclaimed and published interior and furniture designer, distinguished as the visionary behind Erika Ward Interiors—a design firm and showroom celebrated for seamlessly blending contemporary and classic aesthetics. With a passion for crafting timeless interiors and fostering lifestyle and wellness, Erika has become a sought-after figure among both discerning consumers and reputable brands.

Equipped with a robust background in business and finance, coupled with over a decade of experience in the interior design realm, Erika has emerged as a trailblazer in East Coast design, extending her influence to clients nationwide. Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth, leaving a trail of satisfied clients who attest to the team's meticulous attention to detail and client-centric approach. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work.

Beyond her successful design ventures, Erika collaborates closely with renowned brands such as Home Depot, High Point Market, ADAC Atlanta, S.C. Johnson and Company, and Rowe Furniture, lending her voice as a spokesperson and brand ambassador in targeted marketing campaigns.

Yet, amidst her professional accomplishments, Erika finds her most fulfilling roles in her personal life—as a devoted wife to her husband, Chris, and a nurturing mother to their five children.


Connect with Erika Ward

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠⁠

⁠⁠Kravet⁠⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order


Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠⁠

AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.

]]> 3514 no 1099: NEW SHOW: Shea McGee: From Dream to Empire: How Shea Built Studio McGee 3.0 Today With Shea McGee: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m welcoming back Shea McGee—celebrity designer, co-founder of Studio McGee and McGee & Co., and star of Netflix’s Dream Home Makeover. In this episode, Shea opens up about: The original vision she held—and how it evolved What it takes to manage multiple branches of a growing brand How she balances creative leadership with strategic growth Why she’s still dreaming bigger, even after a decade in business LuAnn Nigara and Shea McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments: “If the goal is to make e-commerce be an arm of the design business, you can. It's just, if you're trying to reach a scale, it requires a lot of money to build something that is sustainable and helpful to consumers.” -Shea More About Shea McGee Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee, leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she left her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos. The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee. The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura. Connect with Shea McGee Studio McGee McGee And Co Studio McGee Instagram McGee And Co Instagram YouTube The Art Of Home Book ⁠ A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Duke Renders⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Duke Renders Other Shows: AWDB #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! AWDB #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients AWDB #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Shea McGee: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m welcoming back Shea McGee—celebrity designer, co-founder of Studio McGee and McGee & Co., and star of Netflix’s Dream Home Makeover. In this episode, Shea opens up about: The original vision she held—and how it evolved What it takes to manage multiple branches of a growing brand How she balances creative leadership with strategic growth Why she’s still dreaming bigger, even after a decade in business LuAnn Nigara and Shea McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments: “If the goal is to make e-commerce be an arm of the design business, you can. It's just, if you're trying to reach a scale, it requires a lot of money to build something that is sustainable and helpful to consumers.” -Shea More About Shea McGee Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee, leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she left her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos. The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee. The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura. Connect with Shea McGee Studio McGee McGee And Co Studio McGee Instagram McGee And Co Instagram YouTube The Art Of Home Book ⁠ A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Duke Renders⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Duke Renders Other Shows: AWDB #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! AWDB #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients AWDB #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Today With Shea McGee:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m welcoming back Shea McGee—celebrity designer, co-founder of Studio McGee and McGee & Co., and star of Netflix’s Dream Home Makeover.

In this episode, Shea opens up about:

  • The original vision she held—and how it evolved
  • What it takes to manage multiple branches of a growing brand
  • How she balances creative leadership with strategic growth
  • Why she’s still dreaming bigger, even after a decade in business


LuAnn Nigara and Shea McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“If the goal is to make e-commerce be an arm of the design business, you can. It's just, if you're trying to reach a scale, it requires a lot of money to build something that is sustainable and helpful to consumers.” -Shea


More About Shea McGee

Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee, leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she left her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos. The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee.

The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura.


Connect with Shea McGee

Studio McGee

McGee And Co

Studio McGee Instagram

McGee And Co Instagram

YouTube

The Art Of Home Book


⁠

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Duke Renders⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Duke Renders


Other Shows:

AWDB #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!

AWDB #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right

AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers

AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

AWDB #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

]]> 4448 no 1098: LuAnn Featured: Speaking Your Brand: Creating and Preparing for a Keynote Presentation with LuAnn Nigara [Coaching] Today With Carol Cox (Speaking Your Brand): So… you’ve been asked to give a keynote. Cue the excitement—then the panic. I get it. Keynotes aren’t your average “share some tips” kind of talk. They’re about stepping up, owning your message, and taking your audience on a journey. And trust me, it takes work. In this episode of the Speaking Your Brand podcast, I joined Carol Cox for a deep-dive debrief of the keynote I recently delivered at a major industry conference. We talk through: Why I was invited—and why I said yes The three-month process I used to prepare The one thing I underestimated (and wouldn’t next time!) How I approached memorization and transitions The real message I wanted to leave the audience with If you’re thinking about stepping into the keynote spotlight, or just curious about what it actually takes to deliver one that hits home, this episode is for you. It’s honest. It’s actionable. And yes—it’s all the behind-the-scenes I wish someone had told me before I got started. Check the Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox LuAnn University - Join Now! If you’ve been asked to do a keynote talk at a conference – or one of your goals is to do a keynote – this episode is going to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to prepare and deliver a keynote. Keynotes are meant to be inspirational and aspirational, which is different from a standard business presentation or breakout session where you’re sharing tactical, step-by-step things that people can do. Instead, in a keynote, you want to take the audience on a journey, weaving in your own stories and experiences, and sharing with them your big idea. In this episode, I talk with one of my clients, LuAnn Nigara, and we do a debrief of the keynote she recently gave at a large industry conference. You’ll hear about the process we went through to create the speech, how LuAnn felt on stage, and LuAnn shares with us some things she would do differently. I knew she would nail her keynote – and she did! You’ll love LuAnn’s energy – she was a lot of fun to work with and to have on the show. Let me tell you about LuAnn’s background: She is an award-winning window treatment authority, host of one of the most popular podcasts for the design industry, A Well-Designed Business, and overall business dynamo. She has a multi-million-dollar window treatment business in New Jersey, which has serviced over 24,000 customers over the past 35 years. Be sure to subscribe to the show if you haven’t already. I have more training and coaching calls coming up, including on TEDx talks and pitching the media, so this way you’ll automatically get the new episodes. And share this episode with a friend, especially if you know someone who will be doing a keynote or wants to in the future. Highlights: Why LuAnn was invited to do a keynote How LuAnn prepared for the keynote, starting 3 months ahead of time until a few days before What LuAnn felt like she needed the most help How LuAnn and I worked together to create her message and keynote speech How LuAnn decided to start her keynote Lessons she learned and what she would do differently next time LuAnn’s decision to memorize her talk and how she went about doing that The importance of really knowing your transitions between sections The feedback she received after her keynote The core message from LuAnn’s keynote Links: Connect with LuAnn on her website at http://windowworks-nj.com LuAnn’s podcast A Well-Designed Business = http://windowworks-nj.com/podcasts/ I was on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business, in episode 140, to celebrate her 1 year podcast anniversary. Learn about working with us to create your signature talk or keynote = https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/work-with-us/coaching/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Carol Cox (Speaking Your Brand): So… you’ve been asked to give a keynote. Cue the excitement—then the panic. I get it. Keynotes aren’t your average “share some tips” kind of talk. They’re about stepping up, owning your message, and taking your audience on a journey. And trust me, it takes work. In this episode of the Speaking Your Brand podcast, I joined Carol Cox for a deep-dive debrief of the keynote I recently delivered at a major industry conference. We talk through: Why I was invited—and why I said yes The three-month process I used to prepare The one thing I underestimated (and wouldn’t next time!) How I approached memorization and transitions The real message I wanted to leave the audience with If you’re thinking about stepping into the keynote spotlight, or just curious about what it actually takes to deliver one that hits home, this episode is for you. It’s honest. It’s actionable. And yes—it’s all the behind-the-scenes I wish someone had told me before I got started. Check the Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox LuAnn University - Join Now! If you’ve been asked to do a keynote talk at a conference – or one of your goals is to do a keynote – this episode is going to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to prepare and deliver a keynote. Keynotes are meant to be inspirational and aspirational, which is different from a standard business presentation or breakout session where you’re sharing tactical, step-by-step things that people can do. Instead, in a keynote, you want to take the audience on a journey, weaving in your own stories and experiences, and sharing with them your big idea. In this episode, I talk with one of my clients, LuAnn Nigara, and we do a debrief of the keynote she recently gave at a large industry conference. You’ll hear about the process we went through to create the speech, how LuAnn felt on stage, and LuAnn shares with us some things she would do differently. I knew she would nail her keynote – and she did! You’ll love LuAnn’s energy – she was a lot of fun to work with and to have on the show. Let me tell you about LuAnn’s background: She is an award-winning window treatment authority, host of one of the most popular podcasts for the design industry, A Well-Designed Business, and overall business dynamo. She has a multi-million-dollar window treatment business in New Jersey, which has serviced over 24,000 customers over the past 35 years. Be sure to subscribe to the show if you haven’t already. I have more training and coaching calls coming up, including on TEDx talks and pitching the media, so this way you’ll automatically get the new episodes. And share this episode with a friend, especially if you know someone who will be doing a keynote or wants to in the future. Highlights: Why LuAnn was invited to do a keynote How LuAnn prepared for the keynote, starting 3 months ahead of time until a few days before What LuAnn felt like she needed the most help How LuAnn and I worked together to create her message and keynote speech How LuAnn decided to start her keynote Lessons she learned and what she would do differently next time LuAnn’s decision to memorize her talk and how she went about doing that The importance of really knowing your transitions between sections The feedback she received after her keynote The core message from LuAnn’s keynote Links: Connect with LuAnn on her website at http://windowworks-nj.com LuAnn’s podcast A Well-Designed Business = http://windowworks-nj.com/podcasts/ I was on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business, in episode 140, to celebrate her 1 year podcast anniversary. Learn about working with us to create your signature talk or keynote = https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/work-with-us/coaching/ Today With Carol Cox (Speaking Your Brand):

So… you’ve been asked to give a keynote. Cue the excitement—then the panic. I get it. Keynotes aren’t your average “share some tips” kind of talk. They’re about stepping up, owning your message, and taking your audience on a journey. And trust me, it takes work.

In this episode of the Speaking Your Brand podcast, I joined Carol Cox for a deep-dive debrief of the keynote I recently delivered at a major industry conference.

We talk through:

  • Why I was invited—and why I said yes
  • The three-month process I used to prepare
  • The one thing I underestimated (and wouldn’t next time!)
  • How I approached memorization and transitions
  • The real message I wanted to leave the audience with

If you’re thinking about stepping into the keynote spotlight, or just curious about what it actually takes to deliver one that hits home, this episode is for you.

It’s honest. It’s actionable. And yes—it’s all the behind-the-scenes I wish someone had told me before I got started.

Check the Speaking Your Brand Podcast with Carol Cox

LuAnn University - Join Now!


If you’ve been asked to do a keynote talk at a conference – or one of your goals is to do a keynote – this episode is going to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to prepare and deliver a keynote.

Keynotes are meant to be inspirational and aspirational, which is different from a standard business presentation or breakout session where you’re sharing tactical, step-by-step things that people can do.

Instead, in a keynote, you want to take the audience on a journey, weaving in your own stories and experiences, and sharing with them your big idea.

In this episode, I talk with one of my clients, LuAnn Nigara, and we do a debrief of the keynote she recently gave at a large industry conference.

You’ll hear about the process we went through to create the speech, how LuAnn felt on stage, and LuAnn shares with us some things she would do differently. I knew she would nail her keynote – and she did!

You’ll love LuAnn’s energy – she was a lot of fun to work with and to have on the show.

Let me tell you about LuAnn’s background: She is an award-winning window treatment authority, host of one of the most popular podcasts for the design industry, A Well-Designed Business, and overall business dynamo. She has a multi-million-dollar window treatment business in New Jersey, which has serviced over 24,000 customers over the past 35 years.

Be sure to subscribe to the show if you haven’t already. I have more training and coaching calls coming up, including on TEDx talks and pitching the media, so this way you’ll automatically get the new episodes.

And share this episode with a friend, especially if you know someone who will be doing a keynote or wants to in the future.

Highlights:

  • Why LuAnn was invited to do a keynote
  • How LuAnn prepared for the keynote, starting 3 months ahead of time until a few days before
  • What LuAnn felt like she needed the most help
  • How LuAnn and I worked together to create her message and keynote speech
  • How LuAnn decided to start her keynote
  • Lessons she learned and what she would do differently next time
  • LuAnn’s decision to memorize her talk and how she went about doing that
  • The importance of really knowing your transitions between sections
  • The feedback she received after her keynote
  • The core message from LuAnn’s keynote

Links:

]]> 2311 no 1097: NEW SHOW: Margalit Lankry: Designers with Intention. A Community with a Collaborative, Abundance Mindset Today With Margalit Lankry: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome the wonderful Margalit Lankry to the show. Margalit is a working interior designer with over 26 years of experience, but she's also the founder of something truly special—a group called Designers with Intention. This community of nearly 300 female designers has created genuine collaboration over competition in an industry where that's rare. What started as Margalit's honest moment of wondering why other designers were getting projects she wasn't became a movement that proves there really is enough work for all of us when we choose abundance over scarcity. These women, many of whom could be bidding on the same projects, have instead become friends who celebrate each other's wins and share real business advice. LuAnn Nigara and Margalit Lankry’s Ah-Ha Moments: “My design is my passion and when someone finds their passion and they're able to tap into it, they are so much more of a happy person and it's such a gift to be able to use that in this world.” - Margalit Lankry “The more everyone in business levels up and behaves with professionalism, the better they will do.” LuAnn Nigara More About Margalit Lankry Margalit Lankry, has been a leader in the world of interior design for over 25 years. She is best known for her portfolio of high-end commercial spaces. Her passion for her craft bursts though in every project she undertakes. She infuses each space with a unique blend of elegance, functionality, and style. Yet, amidst her achievements, Margalit remains grounded and generous, always willing to share her wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs and designers. Margalit’s dedication to her work, coupled with her unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, sets her apart as a true leader and inspiration in the field of interior design and entrepreneurship. With every project she takes part in, Margalit Lankry continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, shaping the future of design and business for generations to come. Connect with Margalit Lankry Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Design Trade Service⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #1035: Lindsay Hunter: The Equestrian Interior Designer: Getting Ultra-Specific with Your Niche AWDB #1085: Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why AWDB #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director Tue, 17 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Margalit Lankry: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome the wonderful Margalit Lankry to the show. Margalit is a working interior designer with over 26 years of experience, but she's also the founder of something truly special—a group called Designers with Intention. This community of nearly 300 female designers has created genuine collaboration over competition in an industry where that's rare. What started as Margalit's honest moment of wondering why other designers were getting projects she wasn't became a movement that proves there really is enough work for all of us when we choose abundance over scarcity. These women, many of whom could be bidding on the same projects, have instead become friends who celebrate each other's wins and share real business advice. LuAnn Nigara and Margalit Lankry’s Ah-Ha Moments: “My design is my passion and when someone finds their passion and they're able to tap into it, they are so much more of a happy person and it's such a gift to be able to use that in this world.” - Margalit Lankry “The more everyone in business levels up and behaves with professionalism, the better they will do.” LuAnn Nigara More About Margalit Lankry Margalit Lankry, has been a leader in the world of interior design for over 25 years. She is best known for her portfolio of high-end commercial spaces. Her passion for her craft bursts though in every project she undertakes. She infuses each space with a unique blend of elegance, functionality, and style. Yet, amidst her achievements, Margalit remains grounded and generous, always willing to share her wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs and designers. Margalit’s dedication to her work, coupled with her unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, sets her apart as a true leader and inspiration in the field of interior design and entrepreneurship. With every project she takes part in, Margalit Lankry continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, shaping the future of design and business for generations to come. Connect with Margalit Lankry Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Design Trade Service⁠ Other Shows: AWDB #1035: Lindsay Hunter: The Equestrian Interior Designer: Getting Ultra-Specific with Your Niche AWDB #1085: Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why AWDB #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director Today With Margalit Lankry:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome the wonderful Margalit Lankry to the show. Margalit is a working interior designer with over 26 years of experience, but she's also the founder of something truly special—a group called Designers with Intention. This community of nearly 300 female designers has created genuine collaboration over competition in an industry where that's rare.

What started as Margalit's honest moment of wondering why other designers were getting projects she wasn't became a movement that proves there really is enough work for all of us when we choose abundance over scarcity. These women, many of whom could be bidding on the same projects, have instead become friends who celebrate each other's wins and share real business advice.


LuAnn Nigara and Margalit Lankry’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“My design is my passion and when someone finds their passion and they're able to tap into it, they are so much more of a happy person and it's such a gift to be able to use that in this world.” - Margalit Lankry

“The more everyone in business levels up and behaves with professionalism, the better they will do.” LuAnn Nigara


More About Margalit Lankry

Margalit Lankry, has been a leader in the world of interior design for over 25 years. She is best known for her portfolio of high-end commercial spaces. Her passion for her craft bursts though in every project she undertakes. She infuses each space with a unique blend of elegance, functionality, and style. Yet, amidst her achievements, Margalit remains grounded and generous, always willing to share her wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs and designers.

Margalit’s dedication to her work, coupled with her unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, sets her apart as a true leader and inspiration in the field of interior design and entrepreneurship. With every project she takes part in, Margalit Lankry continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, shaping the future of design and business for generations to come.


Connect with Margalit Lankry

Website

Instagram

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Design Trade Service⁠


Other Shows:

AWDB #1035: Lindsay Hunter: The Equestrian Interior Designer: Getting Ultra-Specific with Your Niche

AWDB #1085: Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

AWDB #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

]]> 3677 no 1096: LuAnn Featured: Eventual Millionaire: A Well-Designed Business With LuAnn Nigara Today With Jaime Masters (Eventual Millionaire): Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat.Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry.In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions.If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Check the Eventual Millionaire Podcast with Jaime Masters: https://eventualmillionaire.com/a-well-designed-business-with-luann-nigara/ Check Their Show Notes! Here’s what you’ll learn from LuAnn about A Well-Designed Business: – How to avoid feeling stagnant without the need to jumping from project to project all the time. – Your body always tells you when you’re working too hard. Discover how LuAnn recognizes the signs before it’s too late! – How to master the work-life balance when you’re running a business with your spouse. – Can you “get it all done”? without actually needing to get it all done? – Do THIS to save your business from getting haywire. – How to “trick” yourself into feeling on top of things again. – The single most important question you must be asking yourself every single day. (It’s not what you think.) Tune in and listen: A Well-Designed Business With LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website: LuAnnNigara.com Fri, 13 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jaime Masters (Eventual Millionaire): Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat.Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry.In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions.If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Check the Eventual Millionaire Podcast with Jaime Masters: https://eventualmillionaire.com/a-well-designed-business-with-luann-nigara/ Check Their Show Notes! Here’s what you’ll learn from LuAnn about A Well-Designed Business: – How to avoid feeling stagnant without the need to jumping from project to project all the time. – Your body always tells you when you’re working too hard. Discover how LuAnn recognizes the signs before it’s too late! – How to master the work-life balance when you’re running a business with your spouse. – Can you “get it all done”? without actually needing to get it all done? – Do THIS to save your business from getting haywire. – How to “trick” yourself into feeling on top of things again. – The single most important question you must be asking yourself every single day. (It’s not what you think.) Tune in and listen: A Well-Designed Business With LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website: LuAnnNigara.com Today With Jaime Masters (Eventual Millionaire):

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat.Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry.In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions.If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below.

Check the Eventual Millionaire Podcast with Jaime Masters:

https://eventualmillionaire.com/a-well-designed-business-with-luann-nigara/


Check Their Show Notes!

Here’s what you’ll learn from LuAnn about A Well-Designed Business:

– How to avoid feeling stagnant without the need to jumping from project to project all the time.

– Your body always tells you when you’re working too hard. Discover how LuAnn recognizes the signs before it’s too late!

– How to master the work-life balance when you’re running a business with your spouse.

– Can you “get it all done”? without actually needing to get it all done?

– Do THIS to save your business from getting haywire.

– How to “trick” yourself into feeling on top of things again.

– The single most important question you must be asking yourself every single day. (It’s not what you think.)


Tune in and listen: A Well-Designed Business With LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website: LuAnnNigara.com

]]> 2793 no 1095: Best Of Show: Amber Lewis: Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference Today With Amber Lewis: She was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger’s Conference. LuAnn didn’t get to talk to her at the conference, so she’s really happy to interview Amber on today’s show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting. LuAnn finds Amber’s body of work and what she’s managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media. More About Amber Lewis Amber Interior Design is a California-based interior design studio created by Amber Lewis. With vast experience in residential and commercial projects, her multi-faceted approach to design has garnered her clients far and wide who seek to create aspirational yet functional spaces that celebrate heritage-inspired concepts built to stand the test of time. Amber celebrates classic design concepts in her projects. She is recognized for her ability to seamlessly layer eclectic and vintage furniture pieces, found textiles, and natural design elements that result in livable and elevated environments. Amber’s aesthetic transcends the boundaries of traditional design and aims to immerse her clients into a world that feels current, approachable, and timeless. In addition to the design firm, Amber is the owner of a burgeoning retail outlet, Shoppe Amber Interiors, author of two best-selling interior design books, Made for Living and Call It Home, and creator of the editorial site, All Sorts Of. Amber’s content-first philosophy in the social media sphere has enabled her to grow a community of individuals from around the world who value her unique aesthetics as a tastemaker in design, fashion, and style. Outside of her robust interior design portfolio, Amber has collaborated with a multitude of brands to design original collections with Anthropologie, Loloi, Four Hands, Visual Comfort, and Etsy. Spanning the categories of furniture, accessories, art, lighting, bedding, rugs, pillows, and more, Amber’s affinity for eye-catching details and distinctive forms is showcased in her partnerships, making her aspirational designs available to everyone and solidifying her status as a household name. Connect with Amber Lewis Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠ ⁠Kravet⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why⁠ Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Amber Lewis: She was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger’s Conference. LuAnn didn’t get to talk to her at the conference, so she’s really happy to interview Amber on today’s show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting. LuAnn finds Amber’s body of work and what she’s managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media. More About Amber Lewis Amber Interior Design is a California-based interior design studio created by Amber Lewis. With vast experience in residential and commercial projects, her multi-faceted approach to design has garnered her clients far and wide who seek to create aspirational yet functional spaces that celebrate heritage-inspired concepts built to stand the test of time. Amber celebrates classic design concepts in her projects. She is recognized for her ability to seamlessly layer eclectic and vintage furniture pieces, found textiles, and natural design elements that result in livable and elevated environments. Amber’s aesthetic transcends the boundaries of traditional design and aims to immerse her clients into a world that feels current, approachable, and timeless. In addition to the design firm, Amber is the owner of a burgeoning retail outlet, Shoppe Amber Interiors, author of two best-selling interior design books, Made for Living and Call It Home, and creator of the editorial site, All Sorts Of. Amber’s content-first philosophy in the social media sphere has enabled her to grow a community of individuals from around the world who value her unique aesthetics as a tastemaker in design, fashion, and style. Outside of her robust interior design portfolio, Amber has collaborated with a multitude of brands to design original collections with Anthropologie, Loloi, Four Hands, Visual Comfort, and Etsy. Spanning the categories of furniture, accessories, art, lighting, bedding, rugs, pillows, and more, Amber’s affinity for eye-catching details and distinctive forms is showcased in her partnerships, making her aspirational designs available to everyone and solidifying her status as a household name. Connect with Amber Lewis Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠ ⁠Kravet⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows:⁠AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why⁠ Today With Amber Lewis:

She was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger’s Conference. LuAnn didn’t get to talk to her at the conference, so she’s really happy to interview Amber on today’s show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting. LuAnn finds Amber’s body of work and what she’s managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media.


More About Amber Lewis

Amber Interior Design is a California-based interior design studio created by Amber Lewis. With vast experience in residential and commercial projects, her multi-faceted approach to design has garnered her clients far and wide who seek to create aspirational yet functional spaces that celebrate heritage-inspired concepts built to stand the test of time.

Amber celebrates classic design concepts in her projects. She is recognized for her ability to seamlessly layer eclectic and vintage furniture pieces, found textiles, and natural design elements that result in livable and elevated environments. Amber’s aesthetic transcends the boundaries of traditional design and aims to immerse her clients into a world that feels current, approachable, and timeless.

In addition to the design firm, Amber is the owner of a burgeoning retail outlet, Shoppe Amber Interiors, author of two best-selling interior design books, Made for Living and Call It Home, and creator of the editorial site, All Sorts Of. Amber’s content-first philosophy in the social media sphere has enabled her to grow a community of individuals from around the world who value her unique aesthetics as a tastemaker in design, fashion, and style.

Outside of her robust interior design portfolio, Amber has collaborated with a multitude of brands to design original collections with Anthropologie, Loloi, Four Hands, Visual Comfort, and Etsy. Spanning the categories of furniture, accessories, art, lighting, bedding, rugs, pillows, and more, Amber’s affinity for eye-catching details and distinctive forms is showcased in her partnerships, making her aspirational designs available to everyone and solidifying her status as a household name.


Connect with Amber Lewis

Website

Instagram


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.⁠

⁠Kravet⁠ - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order


Other Shows:⁠AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why⁠

]]> 5038 no 1094: NEW SHOW: Alison Melnick: Systems, Support & Strategy: A Designer’s First Year Today With Alison Melnick: Today with Alison Melnick, we're diving into a story of bold pivots, transferable skills, and the power of building your business with intention. Alison is the founder of Catherine Rose Design & CO., a New Jersey-based interior design firm known for creating beautiful, functional homes for modern families. But before launching her business, Alison was living a very different dream — working in PR and marketing at Madison Square Garden. In this episode, Alison shares how she transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, how she used her background to her advantage, and why she treated her design firm like a real business from day one. You’ll hear how she built her portfolio with strategy, invested in branding and systems, and developed trade relationships that now support her growth. LuAnn Nigara and Alison Melnick’s Ah-Ha Moments: “If I'm going to start this business, I'm going to do it the right way. I'm going to get a brand. I'm going to get a logo. I'm going to get a website. I'm going to build a social media platform. I'm going to make content.” - Alison “If you're going to do something, do it like a grown-up business. Because a grown-up business starts faster if you do it faster.” - LuAnn More About Alison Melnick A mother of two with a passion for designing beautiful and inviting spaces, Alison Melnick founded Catherine Rose Design & CO. to help others turn their houses into homes. An expert in construction consulting and design, Alison is trusted by her clients as someone who can ease the remodeling process and curate a beautiful and functional family home. With years of experience working with local contractors, Alison earned her design certificate at Berkeley College in 2020 and has since worked on dozens of interior projects. Previously a publicist and marketing professional at Madison Square Garden, Alison's background in project management, event logistics, and creative solutions translate perfectly into her day to day at CRD&CO. Connect with Alison Melnick Website Blog Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠ AHD and Co. Trade Demystifying Interior Design Fees: Clarity, Confidence, and Client Conversations - Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Anastasia Harrison Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer’s Website Design Trade Service Other Shows: AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Alison Melnick: Today with Alison Melnick, we're diving into a story of bold pivots, transferable skills, and the power of building your business with intention. Alison is the founder of Catherine Rose Design & CO., a New Jersey-based interior design firm known for creating beautiful, functional homes for modern families. But before launching her business, Alison was living a very different dream — working in PR and marketing at Madison Square Garden. In this episode, Alison shares how she transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, how she used her background to her advantage, and why she treated her design firm like a real business from day one. You’ll hear how she built her portfolio with strategy, invested in branding and systems, and developed trade relationships that now support her growth. LuAnn Nigara and Alison Melnick’s Ah-Ha Moments: “If I'm going to start this business, I'm going to do it the right way. I'm going to get a brand. I'm going to get a logo. I'm going to get a website. I'm going to build a social media platform. I'm going to make content.” - Alison “If you're going to do something, do it like a grown-up business. Because a grown-up business starts faster if you do it faster.” - LuAnn More About Alison Melnick A mother of two with a passion for designing beautiful and inviting spaces, Alison Melnick founded Catherine Rose Design & CO. to help others turn their houses into homes. An expert in construction consulting and design, Alison is trusted by her clients as someone who can ease the remodeling process and curate a beautiful and functional family home. With years of experience working with local contractors, Alison earned her design certificate at Berkeley College in 2020 and has since worked on dozens of interior projects. Previously a publicist and marketing professional at Madison Square Garden, Alison's background in project management, event logistics, and creative solutions translate perfectly into her day to day at CRD&CO. Connect with Alison Melnick Website Blog Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠ AHD and Co. Trade Demystifying Interior Design Fees: Clarity, Confidence, and Client Conversations - Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Anastasia Harrison Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer’s Website Design Trade Service Other Shows: AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Today With Alison Melnick:

Today with Alison Melnick, we're diving into a story of bold pivots, transferable skills, and the power of building your business with intention. Alison is the founder of Catherine Rose Design & CO., a New Jersey-based interior design firm known for creating beautiful, functional homes for modern families. But before launching her business, Alison was living a very different dream — working in PR and marketing at Madison Square Garden.

In this episode, Alison shares how she transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, how she used her background to her advantage, and why she treated her design firm like a real business from day one. You’ll hear how she built her portfolio with strategy, invested in branding and systems, and developed trade relationships that now support her growth.


LuAnn Nigara and Alison Melnick’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“If I'm going to start this business, I'm going to do it the right way. I'm going to get a brand. I'm going to get a logo. I'm going to get a website. I'm going to build a social media platform. I'm going to make content.” - Alison

“If you're going to do something, do it like a grown-up business. Because a grown-up business starts faster if you do it faster.” - LuAnn


More About Alison Melnick

A mother of two with a passion for designing beautiful and inviting spaces, Alison Melnick founded Catherine Rose Design & CO. to help others turn their houses into homes. An expert in construction consulting and design, Alison is trusted by her clients as someone who can ease the remodeling process and curate a beautiful and functional family home.

With years of experience working with local contractors, Alison earned her design certificate at Berkeley College in 2020 and has since worked on dozens of interior projects. Previously a publicist and marketing professional at Madison Square Garden, Alison's background in project management, event logistics, and creative solutions translate perfectly into her day to day at CRD&CO.


Connect with Alison Melnick

Website

Blog

Instagram

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠

AHD and Co. Trade

Demystifying Interior Design Fees: Clarity, Confidence, and Client Conversations - Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Anastasia Harrison

Recording of our Window Works Launch & Learn with Nicole Heymer

Nicole Heymer’s Website

Design Trade Service


Other Shows:

AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

]]> 4822 no 1093: LuAnn Featured: Profit Is A Choice: Excellence is the Key to Repeatable Profitability Today With Profit Is A Choice Podcast: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry. In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions. If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Visit Profit Is A Choice Check Their Show Notes! Joining us today is LuAnn Nigara. LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works NJ, a window treatment and awning retailer, a best-selling author and the engaging host of the design industry’s number 1 podcast, A Well-Designed Business®. LuAnn brings her energetic and straightforward style to all that she does. Topics Mentioned: Excellence Ownership Systems Thoughts from LuAnn: If you make the decision to start a firm, make the further decision to be accountable to make it great. LuAnn’s tagline is Excellence is a decision. It is understanding the power of deciding it is my choice and it is up to me. Barriers and/or Challenges to excellence can be confidence, accountability and owning it. If you aren’t taking credit for what is broken, how can you be a part of the solution? Systems to be successful are everything. If you don’t have a system, you have a ‘you’ not a business. A system makes your business sellable. The systems are the things that keep you going when the going gets tough. Excellence can mean repeatability. Working in alignment with who you are and what you believe is critical. It is difficult to work out of alignment. Links and Resources: LuAnn’s website- www.luannigara.com Understanding your Financials course by Michele Williams Books: Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Clockwork by Mike Michalowicz 212 The Extra Degree by Sam Parker and Mac Anderson The Making of - A Well Designed Business by LuAnn Nigara Socials: Instagram: @LuannNigara Facebook: @awelldesignedbusiness YouTube:- https://www.youtube.com/awelldesignedbusiness Tue, 03 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Profit Is A Choice Podcast: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry. In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions. If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Visit Profit Is A Choice Check Their Show Notes! Joining us today is LuAnn Nigara. LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works NJ, a window treatment and awning retailer, a best-selling author and the engaging host of the design industry’s number 1 podcast, A Well-Designed Business®. LuAnn brings her energetic and straightforward style to all that she does. Topics Mentioned: Excellence Ownership Systems Thoughts from LuAnn: If you make the decision to start a firm, make the further decision to be accountable to make it great. LuAnn’s tagline is Excellence is a decision. It is understanding the power of deciding it is my choice and it is up to me. Barriers and/or Challenges to excellence can be confidence, accountability and owning it. If you aren’t taking credit for what is broken, how can you be a part of the solution? Systems to be successful are everything. If you don’t have a system, you have a ‘you’ not a business. A system makes your business sellable. The systems are the things that keep you going when the going gets tough. Excellence can mean repeatability. Working in alignment with who you are and what you believe is critical. It is difficult to work out of alignment. Links and Resources: LuAnn’s website- www.luannigara.com Understanding your Financials course by Michele Williams Books: Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Clockwork by Mike Michalowicz 212 The Extra Degree by Sam Parker and Mac Anderson The Making of - A Well Designed Business by LuAnn Nigara Socials: Instagram: @LuannNigara Facebook: @awelldesignedbusiness YouTube:- https://www.youtube.com/awelldesignedbusiness Today With Profit Is A Choice Podcast:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry.

In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions.

If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below.

Visit Profit Is A Choice


Check Their Show Notes!

Joining us today is LuAnn Nigara. LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works NJ, a window treatment and awning retailer, a best-selling author and the engaging host of the design industry’s number 1 podcast, A Well-Designed Business®. LuAnn brings her energetic and straightforward style to all that she does.


Topics Mentioned:

Excellence

Ownership

Systems


Thoughts from LuAnn:

If you make the decision to start a firm, make the further decision to be accountable to make it great.

LuAnn’s tagline is Excellence is a decision. It is understanding the power of deciding it is my choice and it is up to me.

Barriers and/or Challenges to excellence can be confidence, accountability and owning it.

If you aren’t taking credit for what is broken, how can you be a part of the solution?

Systems to be successful are everything. If you don’t have a system, you have a ‘you’ not a business. A system makes your business sellable.

The systems are the things that keep you going when the going gets tough.

Excellence can mean repeatability.

Working in alignment with who you are and what you believe is critical. It is difficult to work out of alignment.


Links and Resources:

LuAnn’s website- www.luannigara.com

Understanding your Financials course by Michele Williams


Books:

Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters

E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber

Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Clockwork by Mike Michalowicz

212 The Extra Degree by Sam Parker and Mac Anderson

The Making of - A Well Designed Business by LuAnn Nigara


Socials:

Instagram: @LuannNigara

Facebook: @awelldesignedbusiness

YouTube:- https://www.youtube.com/awelldesignedbusiness

]]> 4543 no 1092: Best Of Show: Stacy Garcia: A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary Today With Stacy Garcia: What does it take to build a brand that stands the test of time? In this Best Of Show episode, LuAnn Nigara sits down with internationally recognized designer and entrepreneur, Stacy Garcia, to unpack the lessons behind her multi-faceted design empire. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Stacy built a business rooted in vision, strategy, and family legacy What it takes to license your name and scale your design voice globally Why trend forecasting is an essential skill—and how to cultivate it How collaboration and partnership have been central to Stacy’s success More About Stacy Garcia Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, to parents who "spent a little too much time following the Grateful Dead on a motorcycle", Stacy's strong heritage and love of travel have helped to form her unique design philosophy, inventive use of color and remarkable pattern design skills. After graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Surface Pattern Design, Garcia worked for Ralph Lauren's Home Collection and then a large textile firm in NYC designing for their hospitality division. At 26, she founded her textile company, LebaTex, named after her great-grandmother, Leba. In 2004, she launched the Stacy Garcia Design Studio to license her patterns and designs to other manufacturers. Since then, she has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers and retailers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts, hotels, and homes all over the world. As a forecasting and design expert, Garcia serves as a chair holder of the Color Marketing Group, the international association of color professionals. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality design industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, LUXE, Architectural Digest and Traditional Home. Stacy also serves as the Executive Chair for NEWH’s Martha’s Mentor Program, a transformative, 10-month initiative designed to connect aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry with experienced industry mentors. Connect with Stacy Garcia Website Stacy Garcia New York Blue Label Stacy Garcia Home Stay Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast. Kravet - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Fri, 30 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Stacy Garcia: What does it take to build a brand that stands the test of time? In this Best Of Show episode, LuAnn Nigara sits down with internationally recognized designer and entrepreneur, Stacy Garcia, to unpack the lessons behind her multi-faceted design empire. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Stacy built a business rooted in vision, strategy, and family legacy What it takes to license your name and scale your design voice globally Why trend forecasting is an essential skill—and how to cultivate it How collaboration and partnership have been central to Stacy’s success More About Stacy Garcia Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, to parents who "spent a little too much time following the Grateful Dead on a motorcycle", Stacy's strong heritage and love of travel have helped to form her unique design philosophy, inventive use of color and remarkable pattern design skills. After graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Surface Pattern Design, Garcia worked for Ralph Lauren's Home Collection and then a large textile firm in NYC designing for their hospitality division. At 26, she founded her textile company, LebaTex, named after her great-grandmother, Leba. In 2004, she launched the Stacy Garcia Design Studio to license her patterns and designs to other manufacturers. Since then, she has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers and retailers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts, hotels, and homes all over the world. As a forecasting and design expert, Garcia serves as a chair holder of the Color Marketing Group, the international association of color professionals. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality design industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, LUXE, Architectural Digest and Traditional Home. Stacy also serves as the Executive Chair for NEWH’s Martha’s Mentor Program, a transformative, 10-month initiative designed to connect aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry with experienced industry mentors. Connect with Stacy Garcia Website Stacy Garcia New York Blue Label Stacy Garcia Home Stay Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast. Kravet - Don’t forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order Other Shows: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Today With Stacy Garcia:

What does it take to build a brand that stands the test of time? In this Best Of Show episode, LuAnn Nigara sits down with internationally recognized designer and entrepreneur, Stacy Garcia, to unpack the lessons behind her multi-faceted design empire.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • How Stacy built a business rooted in vision, strategy, and family legacy
  • What it takes to license your name and scale your design voice globally
  • Why trend forecasting is an essential skill—and how to cultivate it
  • How collaboration and partnership have been central to Stacy’s success


More About Stacy Garcia

Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, to parents who "spent a little too much time following the Grateful Dead on a motorcycle", Stacy's strong heritage and love of travel have helped to form her unique design philosophy, inventive use of color and remarkable pattern design skills.

After graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Surface Pattern Design, Garcia worked for Ralph Lauren's Home Collection and then a large textile firm in NYC designing for their hospitality division. At 26, she founded her textile company, LebaTex, named after her great-grandmother, Leba. In 2004, she launched the Stacy Garcia Design Studio to license her patterns and designs to other manufacturers.

Since then, she has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers and retailers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts, hotels, and homes all over the world.

As a forecasting and design expert, Garcia serves as a chair holder of the Color Marketing Group, the international association of color professionals. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality design industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, LUXE, Architectural Digest and Traditional Home. Stacy also serves as the Executive Chair for NEWH’s Martha’s Mentor Program, a transformative, 10-month initiative designed to connect aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry with experienced industry mentors.


Connect with Stacy Garcia

Website

Stacy Garcia New York

Blue Label

Stacy Garcia Home

Stay

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

LinkedIn


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠⁠

Watch the full 3-part Docuseries here. See behind the scenes of what it took to build A Well-Designed Business® podcast.

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AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

]]> 4258 no 1091: New Show: Mikel Welch: Celebrity Interior Design Insights: If You Want It, You Have to Work for It Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am very excited to welcome Emmy-winning television host and celebrity designer Mikel Welch back to the show. Long-time listeners of the show will know that Mikel’s original episode is a long-standing favorite, one that I have re-aired and referenced many times, and with good reason. Mikel’s television appearances and design accolades include HGTV, The Drew Barrymore Show, Elle Decor, Kip’s Bay, and so much more. But as we heard in his first episode, Mikel didn’t stumble into success just by luck. He also put in plenty of hard work and blood, sweat, and tears along the way, starting with no experience and couch surfing his way to a design career. Today, he’s here to share his story, update us on his journey, and offer his insight into how to make opportunities happen for yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Mikel Welch’s Ah-Ha Moments: “You do what you have to do. If you want it bad enough, then you have to work for it. And you have to be willing to show up with all the grit and to create those relationships along the way and to just like you are, you always kind of check yourself and say, yep, okay, little humble pie here is just fine.” -LuAnn “I met all these people way back, you know, and these circles just keep like circling. If I drew my life, it would just be scribbles of circles that just keep connecting.” -Mikel More About Mikel Welch Emmy-winning host of Hack My Home on Netflix and weekly contributor to The Drew Barrymore Show, Mikel splits his time between New York City and Los Angeles. He shares his expertise on The Today Show and Good Morning America. As the creative force behind Mikel Welch Designs, his work has been showcased in the 2024 Kips Bay Showhouse and featured in Architectural Digest, People, and Elle Decor. Mikel’s high-profile projects include designs for Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, and VIP green rooms for Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Halle Berry. He also owns Mikel Welch Home at The Gallery at 200 Lex in New York City and his debut Design book The Forever Home: Classic, Clever Design to Help You Put Down Roots will be released in Fall 2025. Connect with Mikel Welch Website The Forever Home Book Instagram  Mikel Welch Home Store A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠ Other Shows: #297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man #1085 Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle Tue, 27 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am very excited to welcome Emmy-winning television host and celebrity designer Mikel Welch back to the show. Long-time listeners of the show will know that Mikel’s original episode is a long-standing favorite, one that I have re-aired and referenced many times, and with good reason. Mikel’s television appearances and design accolades include HGTV, The Drew Barrymore Show, Elle Decor, Kip’s Bay, and so much more. But as we heard in his first episode, Mikel didn’t stumble into success just by luck. He also put in plenty of hard work and blood, sweat, and tears along the way, starting with no experience and couch surfing his way to a design career. Today, he’s here to share his story, update us on his journey, and offer his insight into how to make opportunities happen for yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Mikel Welch’s Ah-Ha Moments: “You do what you have to do. If you want it bad enough, then you have to work for it. And you have to be willing to show up with all the grit and to create those relationships along the way and to just like you are, you always kind of check yourself and say, yep, okay, little humble pie here is just fine.” -LuAnn “I met all these people way back, you know, and these circles just keep like circling. If I drew my life, it would just be scribbles of circles that just keep connecting.” -Mikel More About Mikel Welch Emmy-winning host of Hack My Home on Netflix and weekly contributor to The Drew Barrymore Show, Mikel splits his time between New York City and Los Angeles. He shares his expertise on The Today Show and Good Morning America. As the creative force behind Mikel Welch Designs, his work has been showcased in the 2024 Kips Bay Showhouse and featured in Architectural Digest, People, and Elle Decor. Mikel’s high-profile projects include designs for Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, and VIP green rooms for Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Halle Berry. He also owns Mikel Welch Home at The Gallery at 200 Lex in New York City and his debut Design book The Forever Home: Classic, Clever Design to Help You Put Down Roots will be released in Fall 2025. Connect with Mikel Welch Website The Forever Home Book Instagram  Mikel Welch Home Store A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠ Other Shows: #297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man #1085 Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle Today With Mikel Welch:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am very excited to welcome Emmy-winning television host and celebrity designer Mikel Welch back to the show.

Long-time listeners of the show will know that Mikel’s original episode is a long-standing favorite, one that I have re-aired and referenced many times, and with good reason. Mikel’s television appearances and design accolades include HGTV, The Drew Barrymore Show, Elle Decor, Kip’s Bay, and so much more.

But as we heard in his first episode, Mikel didn’t stumble into success just by luck. He also put in plenty of hard work and blood, sweat, and tears along the way, starting with no experience and couch surfing his way to a design career. Today, he’s here to share his story, update us on his journey, and offer his insight into how to make opportunities happen for yourself.


LuAnn Nigara and Mikel Welch’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“You do what you have to do. If you want it bad enough, then you have to work for it. And you have to be willing to show up with all the grit and to create those relationships along the way and to just like you are, you always kind of check yourself and say, yep, okay, little humble pie here is just fine.” -LuAnn

“I met all these people way back, you know, and these circles just keep like circling. If I drew my life, it would just be scribbles of circles that just keep connecting.” -Mikel


More About Mikel Welch

Emmy-winning host of Hack My Home on Netflix and weekly contributor to The Drew Barrymore Show, Mikel splits his time between New York City and Los Angeles. He shares his expertise on The Today Show and Good Morning America. As the creative force behind Mikel Welch Designs, his work has been showcased in the 2024 Kips Bay Showhouse and featured in Architectural Digest, People, and Elle Decor. Mikel’s high-profile projects include designs for Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, and VIP green rooms for Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Halle Berry. He also owns Mikel Welch Home at The Gallery at 200 Lex in New York City and his debut Design book The Forever Home: Classic, Clever Design to Help You Put Down Roots will be released in Fall 2025.


Connect with Mikel Welch

Website

The Forever Home Book

Instagram 

Mikel Welch Home Store


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠⁠


Other Shows:

#297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man

#1085 Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

]]> 5085 no 1090: New Show! On-Air Strategy Session: Michelle Blemel: Stop Attracting the Wrong Clients: Redefine Your Messaging and Boundaries Today With Michelle Blemel: Michelle Blemel, Principal Designer of Amberleaf, Inc., has over 25 years of experience serving high-end residential and commercial clients. But despite her deep expertise, Michelle found herself attracting clients who weren’t aligned with the luxury, turnkey service she wanted to deliver. In this On Air Strategy Session, we dive into the real behind-the-scenes struggles that many seasoned designers face: Why vague website messaging leads to misaligned clients How flexibility can backfire when you're positioning yourself as the expert What to change in your testimonials and proposals to reinforce your value How to conduct project “autopsies” to continually refine your client experience If you’re ready to move from "custom to chaotic" to a streamlined, high-touch design business, this episode will show you how to make the shift. Plus, be sure to revisit Episode 1048 with Melanie Lybrand for another powerful positioning breakthrough. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Blemel’s Ah-Ha Moments: "A strong brand doesn’t mean you’re for everyone. It means you’re the perfect choice for the right people." - Michelle Blemel More About Michelle Blemel Owner and Principal Designer at Amberleaf, Inc. in Pasadena California, Michelle Blemel has over 25 years of experience in all phases of design and project management. She leads a full service design firm facilitating all aspects of design from concept to completion. She received her Associates Degree in Interior Design from the Colorado Institute of Art, and continued her education at Parsons in Paris and Los Angeles. Known for her creative approach to customized design and use of color. With clients in high-end residential as well as commercial projects, including restaurants, ski resorts, hotels and medical offices. Michelle has distinguished herself as a creative problem solver, providing innovative solutions to tough design questions. Connect with Michelle Blemel Website Facebook YouTube X A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB 1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates Fri, 23 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Blemel: Michelle Blemel, Principal Designer of Amberleaf, Inc., has over 25 years of experience serving high-end residential and commercial clients. But despite her deep expertise, Michelle found herself attracting clients who weren’t aligned with the luxury, turnkey service she wanted to deliver. In this On Air Strategy Session, we dive into the real behind-the-scenes struggles that many seasoned designers face: Why vague website messaging leads to misaligned clients How flexibility can backfire when you're positioning yourself as the expert What to change in your testimonials and proposals to reinforce your value How to conduct project “autopsies” to continually refine your client experience If you’re ready to move from "custom to chaotic" to a streamlined, high-touch design business, this episode will show you how to make the shift. Plus, be sure to revisit Episode 1048 with Melanie Lybrand for another powerful positioning breakthrough. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Blemel’s Ah-Ha Moments: "A strong brand doesn’t mean you’re for everyone. It means you’re the perfect choice for the right people." - Michelle Blemel More About Michelle Blemel Owner and Principal Designer at Amberleaf, Inc. in Pasadena California, Michelle Blemel has over 25 years of experience in all phases of design and project management. She leads a full service design firm facilitating all aspects of design from concept to completion. She received her Associates Degree in Interior Design from the Colorado Institute of Art, and continued her education at Parsons in Paris and Los Angeles. Known for her creative approach to customized design and use of color. With clients in high-end residential as well as commercial projects, including restaurants, ski resorts, hotels and medical offices. Michelle has distinguished herself as a creative problem solver, providing innovative solutions to tough design questions. Connect with Michelle Blemel Website Facebook YouTube X A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB 1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates Today With Michelle Blemel:

Michelle Blemel, Principal Designer of Amberleaf, Inc., has over 25 years of experience serving high-end residential and commercial clients. But despite her deep expertise, Michelle found herself attracting clients who weren’t aligned with the luxury, turnkey service she wanted to deliver.

In this On Air Strategy Session, we dive into the real behind-the-scenes struggles that many seasoned designers face:

Why vague website messaging leads to misaligned clients

How flexibility can backfire when you're positioning yourself as the expert

What to change in your testimonials and proposals to reinforce your value

How to conduct project “autopsies” to continually refine your client experience

If you’re ready to move from "custom to chaotic" to a streamlined, high-touch design business, this episode will show you how to make the shift.

Plus, be sure to revisit Episode 1048 with Melanie Lybrand for another powerful positioning breakthrough.


LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Blemel’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"A strong brand doesn’t mean you’re for everyone. It means you’re the perfect choice for the right people." - Michelle Blemel


More About Michelle Blemel

Owner and Principal Designer at Amberleaf, Inc. in Pasadena California, Michelle Blemel has over 25 years of experience in all phases of design and project management. She leads a full service design firm facilitating all aspects of design from concept to completion.

She received her Associates Degree in Interior Design from the Colorado Institute of Art, and continued her education at Parsons in Paris and Los Angeles.

Known for her creative approach to customized design and use of color. With clients in high-end residential as well as commercial projects, including restaurants, ski resorts, hotels and medical offices.

Michelle has distinguished herself as a creative problem solver, providing innovative solutions to tough design questions.


Connect with Michelle Blemel

Website

Facebook

YouTube

X


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Inside Voice - Sign Up!⁠


Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB 1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates

]]> 4900 no 1089: LuAnn Featured: Wingnut Social Podcast: Can Writing a Book Catapult Your Career? LuAnn Nigara Shares Her Thoughts Today With Wingnut Social Podcast: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry. In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions. If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Check Their Show Notes! Have you always wanted to write a book? Have you also wondered if it’s worth the investment? LuAnn Nigara has written two amazing books and is about to launch her third book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 (which Darla wrote a chapter in). In this episode of the Wingnut Social podcast, LuAnn talks about the process of writing and self-publishing a book—and whether or not it’s worth the ROI.  LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey and created an award-winning podcast for interior designers, A Well-Designed Business. She is a sought-after keynote speaker with over 30+ years of experience in the industry. LuAnn gave Darla the education, strength, and courage to start her design business. If you’ve had dreams of becoming an author, this is a can’t-miss episode.  Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website\ A Well-Designed Business podcast Get on the email list for LuAnn Live! The Power Talk Friday Experts (Book #1) The Making of A Well-Designed Business Resources & People Mentioned Book Launchers Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social http://www.WingnutSocial.com On Facebook On Twitter: @WingnutSocial On Instagram: @WingnutSocial Darla’s Interior Design Website Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group! 1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs) Tue, 20 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Wingnut Social Podcast: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry. In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions. If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below. Check Their Show Notes! Have you always wanted to write a book? Have you also wondered if it’s worth the investment? LuAnn Nigara has written two amazing books and is about to launch her third book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 (which Darla wrote a chapter in). In this episode of the Wingnut Social podcast, LuAnn talks about the process of writing and self-publishing a book—and whether or not it’s worth the ROI.  LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey and created an award-winning podcast for interior designers, A Well-Designed Business. She is a sought-after keynote speaker with over 30+ years of experience in the industry. LuAnn gave Darla the education, strength, and courage to start her design business. If you’ve had dreams of becoming an author, this is a can’t-miss episode.  Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website\ A Well-Designed Business podcast Get on the email list for LuAnn Live! The Power Talk Friday Experts (Book #1) The Making of A Well-Designed Business Resources & People Mentioned Book Launchers Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social http://www.WingnutSocial.com On Facebook On Twitter: @WingnutSocial On Instagram: @WingnutSocial Darla’s Interior Design Website Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group! 1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs) Today With Wingnut Social Podcast:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. I’m not behind the mic as the host… I’m in the guest seat.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being invited onto some truly outstanding podcasts—conversations that dive deep into business, leadership, mindset, and the real-life lessons I’ve learned through decades in this industry.

In this special crossover series, I’m excited to bring a few of those guest appearances to you. When the roles are reversed, the conversation shifts—you’ll hear fresh perspectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights that don’t always surface when I’m the one asking the questions.

If you enjoy what you hear today, I encourage you to explore the host’s show as well. You’ll find links to their podcast and the original show notes below.

Check Their Show Notes!

Have you always wanted to write a book? Have you also wondered if it’s worth the investment? LuAnn Nigara has written two amazing books and is about to launch her third book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 (which Darla wrote a chapter in). In this episode of the Wingnut Social podcast, LuAnn talks about the process of writing and self-publishing a book—and whether or not it’s worth the ROI. 

LuAnn is the co-owner of Window Works in New Jersey and created an award-winning podcast for interior designers, A Well-Designed Business. She is a sought-after keynote speaker with over 30+ years of experience in the industry. LuAnn gave Darla the education, strength, and courage to start her design business. If you’ve had dreams of becoming an author, this is a can’t-miss episode. 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

Resources & People Mentioned


Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social

]]> 2594 no 1088: Power Talk Friday: Design Trade Service / Melanie Rosenburg: The One Skill That Sets Exceptional Interior Designers Apart Today With Melanie Rosenburg: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What does it mean to create a truly luxury experience? You’re not just creating something nice to look at. You’re creating the space that they are going to live in, foreseeably for a long time. And you’re bringing an expertise and a vision into the picture that they can’t do for themselves. But today we’re going a level deeper into what that luxury service really entails. A luxury experience for your client is about all of those things, absolutely. But there’s something that takes it to the next level: being able to hear what a client really wants and needs, even when they don’t know how to articulate what that is. My guest today, Melanie Rosenburg, is here to share how she creates one-of-a-kind, truly authentic projects that form that true luxury experience. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Rosenburg’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I stopped asking my clients what their budget was, and I stopped asking my clients what their style is...I always ask them, how do you want the specific space or home to feel when you walk in." - Melanie Rosenburg "Interior design, custom window treatments, it's luxury, period. Whether it's entry-level luxury or it's I'm flying on a jet plane to Paris to pick my furniture luxury. It's luxury." - LuAnn More About Melanie Rosenburg Introducing Melanie Rosenburg, the creative mind behind MASH Habitat Interiors, where the art of interior design is transformed into a personalized journey of style and functionality. As the driving force of this design studio, Melanie excels in curating spaces that speak to the unique tastes and aspirations of individuals and families. Her dedication to crafting original, one-of-a-kind designs ensures that your space will stand out in a crowd and speak to your specific lifestyle goals. What sets Melanie apart is her commitment to your project no matter the scale. She takes pride in customizing budgets that align with your values and priorities, providing transparency throughout the design process to minimize unexpected surprises. Connect with Melanie Rosenburg⁠ Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets AWDB #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals AWDB #761 Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly AWDB #1060 Design Trade Service: Quality Vendors, Trade Pricing and AI. Your Go to Sourcing Platform Fri, 16 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Melanie Rosenburg: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What does it mean to create a truly luxury experience? You’re not just creating something nice to look at. You’re creating the space that they are going to live in, foreseeably for a long time. And you’re bringing an expertise and a vision into the picture that they can’t do for themselves. But today we’re going a level deeper into what that luxury service really entails. A luxury experience for your client is about all of those things, absolutely. But there’s something that takes it to the next level: being able to hear what a client really wants and needs, even when they don’t know how to articulate what that is. My guest today, Melanie Rosenburg, is here to share how she creates one-of-a-kind, truly authentic projects that form that true luxury experience. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Rosenburg’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I stopped asking my clients what their budget was, and I stopped asking my clients what their style is...I always ask them, how do you want the specific space or home to feel when you walk in." - Melanie Rosenburg "Interior design, custom window treatments, it's luxury, period. Whether it's entry-level luxury or it's I'm flying on a jet plane to Paris to pick my furniture luxury. It's luxury." - LuAnn More About Melanie Rosenburg Introducing Melanie Rosenburg, the creative mind behind MASH Habitat Interiors, where the art of interior design is transformed into a personalized journey of style and functionality. As the driving force of this design studio, Melanie excels in curating spaces that speak to the unique tastes and aspirations of individuals and families. Her dedication to crafting original, one-of-a-kind designs ensures that your space will stand out in a crowd and speak to your specific lifestyle goals. What sets Melanie apart is her commitment to your project no matter the scale. She takes pride in customizing budgets that align with your values and priorities, providing transparency throughout the design process to minimize unexpected surprises. Connect with Melanie Rosenburg⁠ Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets AWDB #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals AWDB #761 Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly AWDB #1060 Design Trade Service: Quality Vendors, Trade Pricing and AI. Your Go to Sourcing Platform Today With Melanie Rosenburg:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What does it mean to create a truly luxury experience? You’re not just creating something nice to look at. You’re creating the space that they are going to live in, foreseeably for a long time. And you’re bringing an expertise and a vision into the picture that they can’t do for themselves.

But today we’re going a level deeper into what that luxury service really entails. A luxury experience for your client is about all of those things, absolutely. But there’s something that takes it to the next level: being able to hear what a client really wants and needs, even when they don’t know how to articulate what that is.

My guest today, Melanie Rosenburg, is here to share how she creates one-of-a-kind, truly authentic projects that form that true luxury experience.


LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Rosenburg’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I stopped asking my clients what their budget was, and I stopped asking my clients what their style is...I always ask them, how do you want the specific space or home to feel when you walk in." - Melanie Rosenburg

"Interior design, custom window treatments, it's luxury, period. Whether it's entry-level luxury or it's I'm flying on a jet plane to Paris to pick my furniture luxury. It's luxury." - LuAnn


More About Melanie Rosenburg

Introducing Melanie Rosenburg, the creative mind behind MASH Habitat Interiors, where the art of interior design is transformed into a personalized journey of style and functionality.

As the driving force of this design studio, Melanie excels in curating spaces that speak to the unique tastes and aspirations of individuals and families. Her dedication to crafting original, one-of-a-kind designs ensures that your space will stand out in a crowd and speak to your specific lifestyle goals.

What sets Melanie apart is her commitment to your project no matter the scale. She takes pride in customizing budgets that align with your values and priorities, providing transparency throughout the design process to minimize unexpected surprises.


Connect with Melanie Rosenburg⁠

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

LinkedIn


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠

AWDB #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

AWDB #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals

AWDB #761 Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly

AWDB #1060 Design Trade Service: Quality Vendors, Trade Pricing and AI. Your Go to Sourcing Platform

]]> 4177 no 1087: Best of Show: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen Today With Nicole Heymer: Hi, welcome! Today, I’m bringing this amazing episode back because, frankly, this one is pure gold. Nicole Heymer, of Glory & Brand, is one of those experts who can take what feels like a foggy mess in your mind and turn it into a clear, strategic plan for your brand. In this conversation, Nicole breaks down the essential discovery process that every business owner should go through before they touch a single pixel on their website. What you’ll learn: Why your website should never be a guessing game How Nicole’s discovery process acts like “therapy for your business” The keys to identifying your core message, audience, and user journey before a single design decision is made How a clear website strategy can actually improve your confidence and decision-making If you're ready to attract better clients, raise your rates, and finally feel proud of your website—this episode will show you how to start. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments: “First, get very clear on what you need and want your website to do for you and your clients.” – LuAnn Nigara “One of the most common errors I see is that I have to dig to figure out what area they serve.” – Nicole Heymer “If your messaging is that you have amazing service, then you better be amazing at service. You don’t just say it. You have to do it so that people tell other people.” – Nicole Heymer More About Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders. Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops. Connect with Nicole Heymer⁠ Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! AWDB #306: Rachel Cannon: Key Steps for Success in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #287: Sandra Espinet: Keys to a Luxury Interior Design Brand AWDB #259: Kae Whitaker – Get New Clients with the Right Email Sequence AWDB #248: Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients Tue, 13 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Nicole Heymer: Hi, welcome! Today, I’m bringing this amazing episode back because, frankly, this one is pure gold. Nicole Heymer, of Glory & Brand, is one of those experts who can take what feels like a foggy mess in your mind and turn it into a clear, strategic plan for your brand. In this conversation, Nicole breaks down the essential discovery process that every business owner should go through before they touch a single pixel on their website. What you’ll learn: Why your website should never be a guessing game How Nicole’s discovery process acts like “therapy for your business” The keys to identifying your core message, audience, and user journey before a single design decision is made How a clear website strategy can actually improve your confidence and decision-making If you're ready to attract better clients, raise your rates, and finally feel proud of your website—this episode will show you how to start. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments: “First, get very clear on what you need and want your website to do for you and your clients.” – LuAnn Nigara “One of the most common errors I see is that I have to dig to figure out what area they serve.” – Nicole Heymer “If your messaging is that you have amazing service, then you better be amazing at service. You don’t just say it. You have to do it so that people tell other people.” – Nicole Heymer More About Nicole Heymer Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders. Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops. Connect with Nicole Heymer⁠ Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠ AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! AWDB #306: Rachel Cannon: Key Steps for Success in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #287: Sandra Espinet: Keys to a Luxury Interior Design Brand AWDB #259: Kae Whitaker – Get New Clients with the Right Email Sequence AWDB #248: Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients Today With Nicole Heymer:

Hi, welcome! Today, I’m bringing this amazing episode back because, frankly, this one is pure gold. Nicole Heymer, of Glory & Brand, is one of those experts who can take what feels like a foggy mess in your mind and turn it into a clear, strategic plan for your brand. In this conversation, Nicole breaks down the essential discovery process that every business owner should go through before they touch a single pixel on their website.

What you’ll learn:

  • Why your website should never be a guessing game
  • How Nicole’s discovery process acts like “therapy for your business”
  • The keys to identifying your core message, audience, and user journey before a single design decision is made
  • How a clear website strategy can actually improve your confidence and decision-making

If you're ready to attract better clients, raise your rates, and finally feel proud of your website—this episode will show you how to start.


LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Heymer’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“First, get very clear on what you need and want your website to do for you and your clients.” – LuAnn Nigara

“One of the most common errors I see is that I have to dig to figure out what area they serve.” – Nicole Heymer

“If your messaging is that you have amazing service, then you better be amazing at service. You don’t just say it. You have to do it so that people tell other people.” – Nicole Heymer


More About Nicole Heymer

Nicole Heymer is the founder of Glory & Brand, a boutique creative agency specializing in branding, websites, marketing automation, and strategy. Since 2011, Nicole has worked with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local custom home builders.

Nicole's clear, practical take on branding has been featured by a range of design industry resources—from the Wingnut Social podcast to the Design Influencers Conference to the . You’ll find her methods in print, on industry webinars, and as the framework for branding workshops.


Connect with Nicole Heymer⁠

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠⁠Design Trade Service⁠⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠


Other Shows:⁠⁠⁠

AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

AWDB #306: Rachel Cannon: Key Steps for Success in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #287: Sandra Espinet: Keys to a Luxury Interior Design Brand

AWDB #259: Kae Whitaker – Get New Clients with the Right Email Sequence

AWDB #248: Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet

AWDB #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

]]> 4396 no 1086: Power Talk Friday: Pippa Biddle: Skip the Algorithm: The Unexpected ROI of Email Marketing Today With Pippa Biddle: Today with Pippa Biddle, CEO and co-founder of Quittner, we explore why newsletters are becoming the most powerful marketing tool for designers - outperforming social media with 70-85% open rates. Pippa shares how she transformed her business communications from dry corporate speak to authentic storytelling, creating a newsletter that builds genuine community and drives sales. Learn why email marketing gives you ownership of your audience, how to find your authentic voice, and practical strategies for crafting newsletters that people actually want to read. Plus, discover the unexpected ROI of choosing email over chasing social media algorithms. LuAnn Nigara and Pippa Biddle’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I think for most people, social media is junk food, newsletters are protein. You do not want to turn your protein into junk food, then it's just junk food too." - Pippa "You do not own your audience on social media platforms. You do not have their email addresses and only a tiny fraction of the people who follow you see what you put out into the world." - Pippa “Luxury is built on relationships and trust... conveying yourself through words and video, if that's your way to do it, is extremely powerful and is a quick up the ladder to getting there than putting out, like you said, an image that doesn't say anything behind it." - LuAnn “There are so many people who can make a room beautiful, but there's only one you. So how do you show up?" - Pippa More About Pippa Biddle Pippa Biddle is the co-founder with her husband, Benjamin Davidson, of Quittner, a lighting and homewares design practice in the Hudson Valley of New York. As CEO of Quittner, Pippa leads business strategy, growth, marketing, and communications. With a deep background in writing as a published author, essayist, and current writer for the Magazine Antiques, Pippa brings a story-forward approach to brand development. Pippa has a degree in creative writing from Columbia and has previously written for the Atlantic, Wired, BBC, Guernica, and more. She has spoken on the power of storytelling to catalyze action at conferences and gatherings from Los Angeles to Abu Dhabi. Connect with Pippa Biddle Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Design Trade Service⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠ Corey Damen Jenkins - Instagram Staged To Sell - Instagram Inside Voice - Sign Up! Hamilton Creatives Other Shows:⁠ AWDB #274: Power Talk Friday: Kae Whitaker- Part 2 of Email Marketing for your Interior Design Firm AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Fri, 09 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Pippa Biddle: Today with Pippa Biddle, CEO and co-founder of Quittner, we explore why newsletters are becoming the most powerful marketing tool for designers - outperforming social media with 70-85% open rates. Pippa shares how she transformed her business communications from dry corporate speak to authentic storytelling, creating a newsletter that builds genuine community and drives sales. Learn why email marketing gives you ownership of your audience, how to find your authentic voice, and practical strategies for crafting newsletters that people actually want to read. Plus, discover the unexpected ROI of choosing email over chasing social media algorithms. LuAnn Nigara and Pippa Biddle’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I think for most people, social media is junk food, newsletters are protein. You do not want to turn your protein into junk food, then it's just junk food too." - Pippa "You do not own your audience on social media platforms. You do not have their email addresses and only a tiny fraction of the people who follow you see what you put out into the world." - Pippa “Luxury is built on relationships and trust... conveying yourself through words and video, if that's your way to do it, is extremely powerful and is a quick up the ladder to getting there than putting out, like you said, an image that doesn't say anything behind it." - LuAnn “There are so many people who can make a room beautiful, but there's only one you. So how do you show up?" - Pippa More About Pippa Biddle Pippa Biddle is the co-founder with her husband, Benjamin Davidson, of Quittner, a lighting and homewares design practice in the Hudson Valley of New York. As CEO of Quittner, Pippa leads business strategy, growth, marketing, and communications. With a deep background in writing as a published author, essayist, and current writer for the Magazine Antiques, Pippa brings a story-forward approach to brand development. Pippa has a degree in creative writing from Columbia and has previously written for the Atlantic, Wired, BBC, Guernica, and more. She has spoken on the power of storytelling to catalyze action at conferences and gatherings from Los Angeles to Abu Dhabi. Connect with Pippa Biddle Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: ⁠Design Trade Service⁠ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠ Corey Damen Jenkins - Instagram Staged To Sell - Instagram Inside Voice - Sign Up! Hamilton Creatives Other Shows:⁠ AWDB #274: Power Talk Friday: Kae Whitaker- Part 2 of Email Marketing for your Interior Design Firm AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why Today With Pippa Biddle:

Today with Pippa Biddle, CEO and co-founder of Quittner, we explore why newsletters are becoming the most powerful marketing tool for designers - outperforming social media with 70-85% open rates. Pippa shares how she transformed her business communications from dry corporate speak to authentic storytelling, creating a newsletter that builds genuine community and drives sales. Learn why email marketing gives you ownership of your audience, how to find your authentic voice, and practical strategies for crafting newsletters that people actually want to read. Plus, discover the unexpected ROI of choosing email over chasing social media algorithms.


LuAnn Nigara and Pippa Biddle’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I think for most people, social media is junk food, newsletters are protein. You do not want to turn your protein into junk food, then it's just junk food too." - Pippa

"You do not own your audience on social media platforms. You do not have their email addresses and only a tiny fraction of the people who follow you see what you put out into the world." - Pippa

“Luxury is built on relationships and trust... conveying yourself through words and video, if that's your way to do it, is extremely powerful and is a quick up the ladder to getting there than putting out, like you said, an image that doesn't say anything behind it." - LuAnn

“There are so many people who can make a room beautiful, but there's only one you. So how do you show up?" - Pippa


More About Pippa Biddle

Pippa Biddle is the co-founder with her husband, Benjamin Davidson, of Quittner, a lighting and homewares design practice in the Hudson Valley of New York. As CEO of Quittner, Pippa leads business strategy, growth, marketing, and communications. With a deep background in writing as a published author, essayist, and current writer for the Magazine Antiques, Pippa brings a story-forward approach to brand development. Pippa has a degree in creative writing from Columbia and has previously written for the Atlantic, Wired, BBC, Guernica, and more. She has spoken on the power of storytelling to catalyze action at conferences and gatherings from Los Angeles to Abu Dhabi.


Connect with Pippa Biddle

Website

Instagram


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

⁠Design Trade Service⁠


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠!

⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠

Corey Damen Jenkins - Instagram

Staged To Sell - Instagram

Inside Voice - Sign Up!

Hamilton Creatives


Other Shows:⁠

AWDB #274: Power Talk Friday: Kae Whitaker- Part 2 of Email Marketing for your Interior Design Firm

AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche

AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

]]> 4973 no 1085: Best of Show: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle Today With Shea & Syd McGee: This powerhouse episode from 2016 features the dynamic duo behind one of the most recognized interior design brands today—Shea and Syd McGee of Studio McGee. We’re bringing this gem back because it’s more relevant than ever. What you’ll learn: How they carved out a distinctive design identity that stood out from the start The early strategic choices that laid the foundation for a now-iconic brand Why transparency and authenticity fueled their rapid online growth How they navigated business roles as a married couple—dividing and conquering with purpose The mindset shifts that transformed obstacles into opportunities LuAnn Nigara, Shea & Syd McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Once I decided I wasn’t going to be everything to everyone, my brand started to grow.” — Shea McGee “You can’t build a sustainable business if you’re not looking at the financials every single week.” — Syd McGee More About Shea & Syd McGee Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee, leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she leM her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos. The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee. The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura. Today, Shea is regarded as one of the leading innovators in the interior design industry with her ‘sophisticated but not stuffy’ approach, while maintaining a consistent focus on empowering others to “Make Life Beautiful" by enhancing their daily lives through good design. Connect with Shea & Syd McGee⁠ Studio McGee McGee And Co Studio McGee Instagram McGee And Co Instagram YouTube The Art Of Home Book A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! ⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠ ⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠ Mydoma Studio – Get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development Tue, 06 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Shea & Syd McGee: This powerhouse episode from 2016 features the dynamic duo behind one of the most recognized interior design brands today—Shea and Syd McGee of Studio McGee. We’re bringing this gem back because it’s more relevant than ever. What you’ll learn: How they carved out a distinctive design identity that stood out from the start The early strategic choices that laid the foundation for a now-iconic brand Why transparency and authenticity fueled their rapid online growth How they navigated business roles as a married couple—dividing and conquering with purpose The mindset shifts that transformed obstacles into opportunities LuAnn Nigara, Shea & Syd McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Once I decided I wasn’t going to be everything to everyone, my brand started to grow.” — Shea McGee “You can’t build a sustainable business if you’re not looking at the financials every single week.” — Syd McGee More About Shea & Syd McGee Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee, leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she leM her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos. The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee. The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura. Today, Shea is regarded as one of the leading innovators in the interior design industry with her ‘sophisticated but not stuffy’ approach, while maintaining a consistent focus on empowering others to “Make Life Beautiful" by enhancing their daily lives through good design. Connect with Shea & Syd McGee⁠ Studio McGee McGee And Co Studio McGee Instagram McGee And Co Instagram YouTube The Art Of Home Book A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! ⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠ ⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠ Mydoma Studio – Get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows: AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development Today With Shea & Syd McGee:

This powerhouse episode from 2016 features the dynamic duo behind one of the most recognized interior design brands today—Shea and Syd McGee of Studio McGee. We’re bringing this gem back because it’s more relevant than ever.

What you’ll learn:

  • How they carved out a distinctive design identity that stood out from the start
  • The early strategic choices that laid the foundation for a now-iconic brand
  • Why transparency and authenticity fueled their rapid online growth
  • How they navigated business roles as a married couple—dividing and conquering with purpose
  • The mindset shifts that transformed obstacles into opportunities


LuAnn Nigara, Shea & Syd McGee’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Once I decided I wasn’t going to be everything to everyone, my brand started to grow.” — Shea McGee

“You can’t build a sustainable business if you’re not looking at the financials every single week.” — Syd McGee


More About Shea & Syd McGee

Shea McGee is the Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Studio McGee,

leading the creative direction for all facets within the Studio McGee Inc. portfolio of brands— Studio McGee, the interior design arm, and McGee & Co., the product side. Shea’s path to launching Studio McGee in 2014 began years before when she leM her position at an ad agency in order to manage the remodel of her and her husband Syd’s first California home. Documenting the process on social media, Shea became an early online influencer, quickly attracting a loyal following with her approachable style and ethos.

The online success led to the launch of her own interior design firm, Studio McGee. The design business experienced rapid growth, paving the way for the launch of their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co., along with a lineup of licensing partnerships and marketing opportunities that amplified their design voice—an autobiography, Make Life Beau+ful, a coffee table book, The Art of Home, a long-running show on Netflix, Dream Home Makeover, and product collaborations with brands like Target, Kohler, Ann Sacks, and Pura.

Today, Shea is regarded as one of the leading innovators in the interior design industry with her ‘sophisticated but not stuffy’ approach, while maintaining a consistent focus on empowering others to “Make Life Beautiful" by enhancing their daily lives through good design.


Connect with Shea & Syd McGee⁠

Studio McGee

McGee And Co

Studio McGee Instagram

McGee And Co Instagram

YouTube

The Art Of Home Book


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠

⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠

⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠!

⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠

⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠

Mydoma Studio – Get 20% off your first three months!


Other Shows:

AWDB #1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business and Why

AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

]]> 4423 no 1084: Power Talk Friday: Megan Thompson: The GreenList & an Approach to Sustainable Design Made Simple Today With Megan Thompson: Today, I'm joined by Megan Thompson, founder of Interior Design GreenList. After earning her degree in sustainable design, Megan discovered the frustrating reality that no comprehensive resource existed to help designers implement sustainable practices efficiently. Taking matters into her own hands, she created ID GreenList to bridge this gap. In this episode, we demystify the differences between green, vegan, biophilic, and sustainable design while revealing how these approaches can seamlessly integrate into your projects without sacrificing beauty, functionality, or budget. Megan shares practical insights for designers at any experience level and reveals how sustainability could become your competitive advantage in today's market. Plus, discover her exclusive offer just for our listeners! LuAnn Nigara and Megan Thompson’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The goal with sustainability is to have a lower impact and for humans to be happy and healthy in the spaces we create,” - Megan Thompson More About Megan Thompson Like many interior designers, Megan Thompson owns her design firm. She has a bachelor's degree in sustainable interior design from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. Despite all the knowledge she gained in her education, she found implementing sustainability into her work frustrating. No single platform exists where all the information is easily accessible and saves you time on your projects. She decided to take matters into her own hands and created Interior Design greenList to make sustainable design easy to understand and implement, regardless of a designer’s background or experience. At Interior Design greenList, Megan teaches designers about sustainability so they can navigate the industry, be ready for new baselines in industry standards, speak to industry partners with confidence, and become the go-to designer for sustainability in their area. Connect with Megan Thompson Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! ⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠ ⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠ Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows: AWDB #729- Erica Reiner: Make More Green by Going Green AWDB #773- Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation AWDB #809- Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line AWDB #996- Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design AWDB #1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury Fri, 02 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Megan Thompson: Today, I'm joined by Megan Thompson, founder of Interior Design GreenList. After earning her degree in sustainable design, Megan discovered the frustrating reality that no comprehensive resource existed to help designers implement sustainable practices efficiently. Taking matters into her own hands, she created ID GreenList to bridge this gap. In this episode, we demystify the differences between green, vegan, biophilic, and sustainable design while revealing how these approaches can seamlessly integrate into your projects without sacrificing beauty, functionality, or budget. Megan shares practical insights for designers at any experience level and reveals how sustainability could become your competitive advantage in today's market. Plus, discover her exclusive offer just for our listeners! LuAnn Nigara and Megan Thompson’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The goal with sustainability is to have a lower impact and for humans to be happy and healthy in the spaces we create,” - Megan Thompson More About Megan Thompson Like many interior designers, Megan Thompson owns her design firm. She has a bachelor's degree in sustainable interior design from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. Despite all the knowledge she gained in her education, she found implementing sustainability into her work frustrating. No single platform exists where all the information is easily accessible and saves you time on your projects. She decided to take matters into her own hands and created Interior Design greenList to make sustainable design easy to understand and implement, regardless of a designer’s background or experience. At Interior Design greenList, Megan teaches designers about sustainability so they can navigate the industry, be ready for new baselines in industry standards, speak to industry partners with confidence, and become the go-to designer for sustainability in their area. Connect with Megan Thompson Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠ Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! ⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠ ⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠ Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows: AWDB #729- Erica Reiner: Make More Green by Going Green AWDB #773- Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation AWDB #809- Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line AWDB #996- Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design AWDB #1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury Today With Megan Thompson:

Today, I'm joined by Megan Thompson, founder of Interior Design GreenList. After earning her degree in sustainable design, Megan discovered the frustrating reality that no comprehensive resource existed to help designers implement sustainable practices efficiently. Taking matters into her own hands, she created ID GreenList to bridge this gap.

In this episode, we demystify the differences between green, vegan, biophilic, and sustainable design while revealing how these approaches can seamlessly integrate into your projects without sacrificing beauty, functionality, or budget. Megan shares practical insights for designers at any experience level and reveals how sustainability could become your competitive advantage in today's market. Plus, discover her exclusive offer just for our listeners!


LuAnn Nigara and Megan Thompson’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“The goal with sustainability is to have a lower impact and for humans to be happy and healthy in the spaces we create,” - Megan Thompson


More About Megan Thompson

Like many interior designers, Megan Thompson owns her design firm. She has a bachelor's degree in sustainable interior design from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. Despite all the knowledge she gained in her education, she found implementing sustainability into her work frustrating. No single platform exists where all the information is easily accessible and saves you time on your projects.

She decided to take matters into her own hands and created Interior Design greenList to make sustainable design easy to understand and implement, regardless of a designer’s background or experience.

At Interior Design greenList, Megan teaches designers about sustainability so they can navigate the industry, be ready for new baselines in industry standards, speak to industry partners with confidence, and become the go-to designer for sustainability in their area.


Connect with Megan Thompson

Website

Instagram


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠

⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠

⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Audiobook: ⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠

Book 2: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠

Book 3: ⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠

⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠

Like Us: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠here⁠⁠!

⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠

⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠

Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months!


Other Shows:

AWDB #729- Erica Reiner: Make More Green by Going Green

AWDB #773- Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation

AWDB #809- Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line

AWDB #996- Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience

AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design

AWDB #1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury

]]> 3534 no 1083: Veronika Miller: Building a Career through Design Connection Today With Veronika Miller: I'm excited to introduce you to Veronika Miller, a true innovator who has spent her career building meaningful connections between designers, brands, and international markets. From her early days as a marketing professional and kitchen designer to founding the influential Design Hounds Influencer Network and consulting with organizations like NKBA, Veronika has a unique talent for creating opportunities where others see obstacles. In this episode, Veronika and I discuss her entrepreneurial journey, exploring how a fearless approach and commitment to genuine value have shaped her multiple successful ventures. You'll hear about the power of stepping out of your comfort zone, the importance of international perspectives in design, and how creating strategic connections can transform your business. LuAnn Nigara and Veronika Miller’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The answer is defiintely no if you don’t ask.” - LuAnn “It’s not fearlessness. It’s ‘doing’ despite fear.” - Veronika "It's a piece of wood. If you don't like this one, I'll get you another." - Veronika More About Veronika Miller Veronika Miller is CEO of M2 Connect LLC and Founder of three brands: The Designhounds Influencer Network, which includes Designhounds Events and the Designhounds Talks Webcasts; M2 Consulting Group, a team of industry experts focused on business development for brands and industry organizations including the NKBA’s international development program, Global Connect and finally the DesignTrail App, a digital lead management and communication application for buyers and sellers set to launch in 2025. Connect with Veronika Miller Design Hounds Design Hounds - Instagram M2 Consulting Group M2 Consulting Group - Email A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠! ⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠ ⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠ Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May 7th! ISH Frankfurt InstallerSHOW 2025 UK - June 24th to 26th! German Haus Fair Tour - Sept 20th to 24th! Interzum in Cologne, Germany - May 20th to 23rd! Other Shows: AWDB #807: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business AWDB #485: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult AWDB #825: Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business AWDB #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big AWDB #568: Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM” AWDB #20: Arianne Bellizaire – Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? Tue, 29 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Veronika Miller: I'm excited to introduce you to Veronika Miller, a true innovator who has spent her career building meaningful connections between designers, brands, and international markets. From her early days as a marketing professional and kitchen designer to founding the influential Design Hounds Influencer Network and consulting with organizations like NKBA, Veronika has a unique talent for creating opportunities where others see obstacles. In this episode, Veronika and I discuss her entrepreneurial journey, exploring how a fearless approach and commitment to genuine value have shaped her multiple successful ventures. You'll hear about the power of stepping out of your comfort zone, the importance of international perspectives in design, and how creating strategic connections can transform your business. LuAnn Nigara and Veronika Miller’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The answer is defiintely no if you don’t ask.” - LuAnn “It’s not fearlessness. It’s ‘doing’ despite fear.” - Veronika "It's a piece of wood. If you don't like this one, I'll get you another." - Veronika More About Veronika Miller Veronika Miller is CEO of M2 Connect LLC and Founder of three brands: The Designhounds Influencer Network, which includes Designhounds Events and the Designhounds Talks Webcasts; M2 Consulting Group, a team of industry experts focused on business development for brands and industry organizations including the NKBA’s international development program, Global Connect and finally the DesignTrail App, a digital lead management and communication application for buyers and sellers set to launch in 2025. Connect with Veronika Miller Design Hounds Design Hounds - Instagram M2 Consulting Group M2 Consulting Group - Email A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠ ⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠ ⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠ Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠ Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠ LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠ ⁠Power Talk Friday⁠ Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠! ⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠ ⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠ Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May 7th! ISH Frankfurt InstallerSHOW 2025 UK - June 24th to 26th! German Haus Fair Tour - Sept 20th to 24th! Interzum in Cologne, Germany - May 20th to 23rd! Other Shows: AWDB #807: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business AWDB #485: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult AWDB #825: Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business AWDB #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big AWDB #568: Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM” AWDB #20: Arianne Bellizaire – Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? Today With Veronika Miller:

I'm excited to introduce you to Veronika Miller, a true innovator who has spent her career building meaningful connections between designers, brands, and international markets. From her early days as a marketing professional and kitchen designer to founding the influential Design Hounds Influencer Network and consulting with organizations like NKBA, Veronika has a unique talent for creating opportunities where others see obstacles.

In this episode, Veronika and I discuss her entrepreneurial journey, exploring how a fearless approach and commitment to genuine value have shaped her multiple successful ventures. You'll hear about the power of stepping out of your comfort zone, the importance of international perspectives in design, and how creating strategic connections can transform your business.


LuAnn Nigara and Veronika Miller’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“The answer is defiintely no if you don’t ask.” - LuAnn

“It’s not fearlessness. It’s ‘doing’ despite fear.” - Veronika

"It's a piece of wood. If you don't like this one, I'll get you another." - Veronika


More About Veronika Miller

Veronika Miller is CEO of M2 Connect LLC and Founder of three brands: The Designhounds Influencer Network, which includes Designhounds Events and the Designhounds Talks Webcasts; M2 Consulting Group, a team of industry experts focused on business development for brands and industry organizations including the NKBA’s international development program, Global Connect and finally the DesignTrail App, a digital lead management and communication application for buyers and sellers set to launch in 2025.


Connect with Veronika Miller

Design Hounds

Design Hounds - Instagram

M2 Consulting Group

M2 Consulting Group - Email


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠

⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠

⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠here⁠. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Audiobook: ⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠

Book 2: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠

Book 3: ⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s ⁠Website⁠

LuAnn’s ⁠Blog⁠

⁠Power Talk Friday⁠

Like Us: ⁠Facebook⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠Twitter⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠Instagram⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠Podcast⁠


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the ⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠. Learn more about it ⁠here⁠!

⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠

⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠

Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May 7th!

ISH Frankfurt

InstallerSHOW 2025 UK - June 24th to 26th!

German Haus Fair Tour - Sept 20th to 24th!

Interzum in Cologne, Germany - May 20th to 23rd!


Other Shows:

AWDB #807: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business

AWDB #485: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult

AWDB #825: Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big

AWDB #568: Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM”

AWDB #20: Arianne Bellizaire – Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform?

]]> 5075 no 1082: What Would Lu Do?: The Big Shift: What’s Changing on A Well-Designed Business® and Why Today With LuAnn Nigara: After 9 years, 1,400+ episodes, and over 9 million downloads, A Well-Designed Business® is evolving. In this solo episode, LuAnn shares the next chapter of the podcast—and why this shift isn’t a step back, but a powerful step forward. She explains the two types of episodes you’ll hear in the coming months, and the all-new format she’s creating to deliver even more value for seasoned business owners. Whether you’re new to the show or have been with LuAnn since the beginning, this is an episode that lays out exactly how A Well-Designed Business® will continue to support you, your growth, and your goals—now more than ever. Listen now to hear: Why weekly interviews are on pause What’s replacing them—and why it’s better for your business What you can expect from the new format: pain-point-focused, expert-curated compilation episodes Why LuAnn created InsideVoice (and how to join) And what’s happening with Book #4… This isn’t the end—it’s the evolution. A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design InsideVoice - Sign Up Here! Design Trade Service Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference Other Shows: AWDB #1062: 9 Years of A Well-Designed Business—How Vision & Bold Action Can Grow Your Business Fri, 25 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: After 9 years, 1,400+ episodes, and over 9 million downloads, A Well-Designed Business® is evolving. In this solo episode, LuAnn shares the next chapter of the podcast—and why this shift isn’t a step back, but a powerful step forward. She explains the two types of episodes you’ll hear in the coming months, and the all-new format she’s creating to deliver even more value for seasoned business owners. Whether you’re new to the show or have been with LuAnn since the beginning, this is an episode that lays out exactly how A Well-Designed Business® will continue to support you, your growth, and your goals—now more than ever. Listen now to hear: Why weekly interviews are on pause What’s replacing them—and why it’s better for your business What you can expect from the new format: pain-point-focused, expert-curated compilation episodes Why LuAnn created InsideVoice (and how to join) And what’s happening with Book #4… This isn’t the end—it’s the evolution. A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design InsideVoice - Sign Up Here! Design Trade Service Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference Other Shows: AWDB #1062: 9 Years of A Well-Designed Business—How Vision & Bold Action Can Grow Your Business Today With LuAnn Nigara:

After 9 years, 1,400+ episodes, and over 9 million downloads, A Well-Designed Business® is evolving.


In this solo episode, LuAnn shares the next chapter of the podcast—and why this shift isn’t a step back, but a powerful step forward. She explains the two types of episodes you’ll hear in the coming months, and the all-new format she’s creating to deliver even more value for seasoned business owners.


Whether you’re new to the show or have been with LuAnn since the beginning, this is an episode that lays out exactly how A Well-Designed Business® will continue to support you, your growth, and your goals—now more than ever.


Listen now to hear:

  • Why weekly interviews are on pause
  • What’s replacing them—and why it’s better for your business
  • What you can expect from the new format: pain-point-focused, expert-curated compilation episodes
  • Why LuAnn created InsideVoice (and how to join)
  • And what’s happening with Book #4…


This isn’t the end—it’s the evolution.


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

InsideVoice - Sign Up Here!

Design Trade Service

Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference


Other Shows:

AWDB #1062: 9 Years of A Well-Designed Business—How Vision & Bold Action Can Grow Your Business

]]> 2363 no 1081: Tracee Murphy: The Psychology of Luxury Sales in Interior Design Today With Tracee Murphy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving deep into the psychology involved in the sales process—and why it begins with understanding that you are a luxury service provider. Tracee Murphy, psychologist-turned-designer, leverages her background in her business, and teaches others to do the same thing. Today, she’s here to unpack how understanding client motivations and mastering deep listening are key to success in the high-end market. LuAnn Nigara andTracee Murphy’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Luxury is really defined by the client... if we don't understand what they're wanting, then we can't possibly deliver it." -Tracee "If the only thing you ever did as a salesperson was stop talking and listen, you're gonna be way ahead of the game." - LuAnn More About Tracee Murphy Thanks to degrees in interior design and psychology, Tracee understands how your home’s interior can impact your moods and the way you live. She is particularly skilled at listening to her client’s needs to develop spaces that meet and exceed expectations. From managing multiple perspectives on a project to staying abreast of the latest codes, Tracee thrives on reflecting “Your Style of Living.” Tracee and her team believe that each project is unique, with its own singular design aesthetic. To that end, she and her team work to reflect the personality of each homeowner or business behind the space. Her passion is for classic styling with a relaxed and sophisticated feeling. A licensed interior designer in Florida, Tracee regularly attends continuing education classes to ensure she is constantly evolving in her approach while also remaining up to date on all health and safety requirements. When she isn’t creating beautiful living spaces, Tracee loves traveling the world, walking the beach and enjoying the “salt life.” She regularly supports the arts and culture that Sarasota has to offer, but most of all, she relishes spending time with her family and dogs, George Washington and Sophie Jo, who you’ll find in the TMI Design Studio on most days. Connect with Tracee Murphy Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn The Designer Launch - Download Now! A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Design Trade Service Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference Other Shows: #409 Candy Scott & Rachel Cannon: Interior Design is a Service Business Not a Commodity Business #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #842 Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity #971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design Tue, 22 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Tracee Murphy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving deep into the psychology involved in the sales process—and why it begins with understanding that you are a luxury service provider. Tracee Murphy, psychologist-turned-designer, leverages her background in her business, and teaches others to do the same thing. Today, she’s here to unpack how understanding client motivations and mastering deep listening are key to success in the high-end market. LuAnn Nigara andTracee Murphy’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Luxury is really defined by the client... if we don't understand what they're wanting, then we can't possibly deliver it." -Tracee "If the only thing you ever did as a salesperson was stop talking and listen, you're gonna be way ahead of the game." - LuAnn More About Tracee Murphy Thanks to degrees in interior design and psychology, Tracee understands how your home’s interior can impact your moods and the way you live. She is particularly skilled at listening to her client’s needs to develop spaces that meet and exceed expectations. From managing multiple perspectives on a project to staying abreast of the latest codes, Tracee thrives on reflecting “Your Style of Living.” Tracee and her team believe that each project is unique, with its own singular design aesthetic. To that end, she and her team work to reflect the personality of each homeowner or business behind the space. Her passion is for classic styling with a relaxed and sophisticated feeling. A licensed interior designer in Florida, Tracee regularly attends continuing education classes to ensure she is constantly evolving in her approach while also remaining up to date on all health and safety requirements. When she isn’t creating beautiful living spaces, Tracee loves traveling the world, walking the beach and enjoying the “salt life.” She regularly supports the arts and culture that Sarasota has to offer, but most of all, she relishes spending time with her family and dogs, George Washington and Sophie Jo, who you’ll find in the TMI Design Studio on most days. Connect with Tracee Murphy Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn The Designer Launch - Download Now! A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Design Trade Service Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference Other Shows: #409 Candy Scott & Rachel Cannon: Interior Design is a Service Business Not a Commodity Business #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #842 Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity #971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design Today With Tracee Murphy:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving deep into the psychology involved in the sales process—and why it begins with understanding that you are a luxury service provider.

Tracee Murphy, psychologist-turned-designer, leverages her background in her business, and teaches others to do the same thing. Today, she’s here to unpack how understanding client motivations and mastering deep listening are key to success in the high-end market.


LuAnn Nigara andTracee Murphy’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Luxury is really defined by the client... if we don't understand what they're wanting, then we can't possibly deliver it." -Tracee


"If the only thing you ever did as a salesperson was stop talking and listen, you're gonna be way ahead of the game." - LuAnn


More About Tracee Murphy

Thanks to degrees in interior design and psychology, Tracee understands how your home’s interior can impact your moods and the way you live. She is particularly skilled at listening to her client’s needs to develop spaces that meet and exceed expectations. From managing multiple perspectives on a project to staying abreast of the latest codes, Tracee thrives on reflecting “Your Style of Living.”

Tracee and her team believe that each project is unique, with its own singular design aesthetic. To that end, she and her team work to reflect the personality of each homeowner or business behind the space. Her passion is for classic styling with a relaxed and sophisticated feeling.

A licensed interior designer in Florida, Tracee regularly attends continuing education classes to ensure she is constantly evolving in her approach while also remaining up to date on all health and safety requirements.

When she isn’t creating beautiful living spaces, Tracee loves traveling the world, walking the beach and enjoying the “salt life.” She regularly supports the arts and culture that Sarasota has to offer, but most of all, she relishes spending time with her family and dogs, George Washington and Sophie Jo, who you’ll find in the TMI Design Studio on most days.


Connect with Tracee Murphy

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

The Designer Launch - Download Now!


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service

2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Design Trade Service

Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference


Other Shows:

#409 Candy Scott & Rachel Cannon: Interior Design is a Service Business Not a Commodity Business

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#842 Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

#971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design

]]> 4670 no 1080: Power Talk Friday: Brad Robinson: What Builders Really Want from Interior Designers Today With Brad Robinson: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Design-build is something that so many newer designers want to get into. And the question always becomes how to break into it. It’s always interesting to hear from the builder’s perspective. What are they looking for? How can designers break in? How can they prove themselves and the value they bring to a project? What can they do to set themselves apart? Today, I am so excited to welcome Brad Robinson, founder of Bradford Custom Homes & Remodeling to talk about design-build projects, how designers can break in, and the importance of systems and processes to keep everything running smoothly. Also, if you want to learn more about Buildertrend, one of the valuable resources Brad mentioned in this episode, we have a special link for you! Just go to Buildertrend.com/welldesigned and get started! More About Brad Robinson Brad Robinson is the president of bradford custom homes & remodeling, a premier designbuild firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, where he creates luxurious, personalized, and highperforming living spaces. As the founder of six construction-related businesses, Brad's influence extends beyond Atlanta, with multiple companies serving clients regionally and nationwide. Drawing from a rich history rooted in his family's construction business and extensive experience in home renovations, Brad's commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction has driven the success of his ventures. Above all, Brad is most proud of the teams he has built, each dedicated to delivering thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted homes tailored to each client's unique vision. Connect with Brad Robinson Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Houzz TikTok YouTube A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Buildertrend Mydoma Studio Design Trade Service Jude Charles’ Website Other Shows: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors:The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business #644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand Fri, 18 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Brad Robinson: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Design-build is something that so many newer designers want to get into. And the question always becomes how to break into it. It’s always interesting to hear from the builder’s perspective. What are they looking for? How can designers break in? How can they prove themselves and the value they bring to a project? What can they do to set themselves apart? Today, I am so excited to welcome Brad Robinson, founder of Bradford Custom Homes & Remodeling to talk about design-build projects, how designers can break in, and the importance of systems and processes to keep everything running smoothly. Also, if you want to learn more about Buildertrend, one of the valuable resources Brad mentioned in this episode, we have a special link for you! Just go to Buildertrend.com/welldesigned and get started! More About Brad Robinson Brad Robinson is the president of bradford custom homes & remodeling, a premier designbuild firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, where he creates luxurious, personalized, and highperforming living spaces. As the founder of six construction-related businesses, Brad's influence extends beyond Atlanta, with multiple companies serving clients regionally and nationwide. Drawing from a rich history rooted in his family's construction business and extensive experience in home renovations, Brad's commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction has driven the success of his ventures. Above all, Brad is most proud of the teams he has built, each dedicated to delivering thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted homes tailored to each client's unique vision. Connect with Brad Robinson Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Houzz TikTok YouTube A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Buildertrend Mydoma Studio Design Trade Service Jude Charles’ Website Other Shows: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors:The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business #644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand Today With Brad Robinson:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Design-build is something that so many newer designers want to get into. And the question always becomes how to break into it. It’s always interesting to hear from the builder’s perspective. What are they looking for? How can designers break in? How can they prove themselves and the value they bring to a project? What can they do to set themselves apart?

Today, I am so excited to welcome Brad Robinson, founder of Bradford Custom Homes & Remodeling to talk about design-build projects, how designers can break in, and the importance of systems and processes to keep everything running smoothly. Also, if you want to learn more about Buildertrend, one of the valuable resources Brad mentioned in this episode, we have a special link for you! Just go to Buildertrend.com/welldesigned and get started!


More About Brad Robinson

Brad Robinson is the president of bradford custom homes & remodeling, a premier designbuild firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, where he creates luxurious, personalized, and highperforming living spaces. As the founder of six construction-related businesses, Brad's influence extends beyond Atlanta, with multiple companies serving clients regionally and nationwide.

Drawing from a rich history rooted in his family's construction business and extensive experience in home renovations, Brad's commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction has driven the success of his ventures. Above all, Brad is most proud of the teams he has built, each dedicated to delivering thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted homes tailored to each client's unique vision.


Connect with Brad Robinson

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Houzz

TikTok

YouTube


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service

2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Buildertrend

Mydoma Studio

Design Trade Service

Jude Charles’ Website


Other Shows:

#542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

#709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors:The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business

#644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers

#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals

AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

#516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

]]> 3616 no 1079: Amber Guyton: Being Bold in Entrepreneurship Today With Amber Guyton: Today on A Well Designed Business, I'm joined by Amber Guyton, the creative force and entrepreneurial mind behind Blessed Little Bungalow. Amber's journey from corporate America to the design world is anything but typical - she left a six-figure tech job to pursue her passion, and has since created a multi-faceted business as a designer, influencer, product creator, and soon-to-be property investor. LuAnn Nigara and Amber Guyton's Ah-Ha Moments: “I am all about community over competition.” - Amber "You know who doesn't feel imposter syndrome? Actual imposters. They're not worried about imposter syndrome. They're just out here doing." - Amber “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.” - Amber "Burnout is real and you have to take care of yourself. You can't pour from an empty cup…You have to be just a forever student and remain curious, but that gut feeling? You can't ignore it because that's wisdom." - Amber "When it's a ‘No’ for you, it's not going to be good for either one of you. So you're doing a diservice to both of you…If it's ‘No,’ just get the emotion out of it and recognize something isn't fitting.” - LuAnn More About Amber Guyton Amber Guyton is the owner of Blessed Little Bungalow, an interior design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. A passionate champion for personal finance, she believes that interior design should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few and is committed to democratizing the industry one home at a time. A lover of soulful maximalism, Amber has served dozens of clients across the country designing colorful, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial projects. She founded BLB in 2016 after decorating her entire renovated 1948 bungalow in San Antonio, Texas bungalow in less than a week. Since then, Amber’s blog and social media following quickly grew and transformed her former hobby and side hustle into a nationally known brand and business. In 2021, she left her fintech marketing career in San Francisco, California to pursue this dream and take BLB full-time. Connect with Amber Guyton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May  7th! Upcoming Events with LuAnn! Other Shows: AWDB #419: Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy AWDB #440: Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years AWDB #903: Power Talk Friday: Adam Stevison: Give Your Clients an Interactive, Luxury Experience at the Home Depot Design Center AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Amber Guyton: Today on A Well Designed Business, I'm joined by Amber Guyton, the creative force and entrepreneurial mind behind Blessed Little Bungalow. Amber's journey from corporate America to the design world is anything but typical - she left a six-figure tech job to pursue her passion, and has since created a multi-faceted business as a designer, influencer, product creator, and soon-to-be property investor. LuAnn Nigara and Amber Guyton's Ah-Ha Moments: “I am all about community over competition.” - Amber "You know who doesn't feel imposter syndrome? Actual imposters. They're not worried about imposter syndrome. They're just out here doing." - Amber “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.” - Amber "Burnout is real and you have to take care of yourself. You can't pour from an empty cup…You have to be just a forever student and remain curious, but that gut feeling? You can't ignore it because that's wisdom." - Amber "When it's a ‘No’ for you, it's not going to be good for either one of you. So you're doing a diservice to both of you…If it's ‘No,’ just get the emotion out of it and recognize something isn't fitting.” - LuAnn More About Amber Guyton Amber Guyton is the owner of Blessed Little Bungalow, an interior design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. A passionate champion for personal finance, she believes that interior design should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few and is committed to democratizing the industry one home at a time. A lover of soulful maximalism, Amber has served dozens of clients across the country designing colorful, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial projects. She founded BLB in 2016 after decorating her entire renovated 1948 bungalow in San Antonio, Texas bungalow in less than a week. Since then, Amber’s blog and social media following quickly grew and transformed her former hobby and side hustle into a nationally known brand and business. In 2021, she left her fintech marketing career in San Francisco, California to pursue this dream and take BLB full-time. Connect with Amber Guyton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May  7th! Upcoming Events with LuAnn! Other Shows: AWDB #419: Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy AWDB #440: Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years AWDB #903: Power Talk Friday: Adam Stevison: Give Your Clients an Interactive, Luxury Experience at the Home Depot Design Center AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals Today With Amber Guyton:

Today on A Well Designed Business, I'm joined by Amber Guyton, the creative force and entrepreneurial mind behind Blessed Little Bungalow. Amber's journey from corporate America to the design world is anything but typical - she left a six-figure tech job to pursue her passion, and has since created a multi-faceted business as a designer, influencer, product creator, and soon-to-be property investor.


LuAnn Nigara and Amber Guyton's Ah-Ha Moments:

“I am all about community over competition.” - Amber

"You know who doesn't feel imposter syndrome? Actual imposters. They're not worried about imposter syndrome. They're just out here doing." - Amber

“Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.” - Amber

"Burnout is real and you have to take care of yourself. You can't pour from an empty cup…You have to be just a forever student and remain curious, but that gut feeling? You can't ignore it because that's wisdom." - Amber

"When it's a ‘No’ for you, it's not going to be good for either one of you. So you're doing a diservice to both of you…If it's ‘No,’ just get the emotion out of it and recognize something isn't fitting.” - LuAnn


More About Amber Guyton

Amber Guyton is the owner of Blessed Little Bungalow, an interior design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. A passionate champion for personal finance, she believes that interior design should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few and is committed to democratizing the industry one home at a time. A lover of soulful maximalism, Amber has served dozens of clients across the country designing colorful, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial projects. She founded BLB in 2016 after decorating her entire renovated 1948 bungalow in San Antonio, Texas bungalow in less than a week. Since then, Amber’s blog and social media following quickly grew and transformed her former hobby and side hustle into a nationally known brand and business. In 2021, she left her fintech marketing career in San Francisco, California to pursue this dream and take BLB full-time.


Connect with Amber Guyton

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Houzz


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today!

Designhounds Talks Chicago at The Mart : Business Spark Conference - May  7th!

Upcoming Events with LuAnn!


Other Shows:

AWDB #419: Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy

AWDB #440: Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program

AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years

AWDB #903: Power Talk Friday: Adam Stevison: Give Your Clients an Interactive, Luxury Experience at the Home Depot Design Center

AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals

]]> 5769 no 1078: On-Air Strategy Session: Rebecca Pearson: Acquiring a Company and Creating Smooth Processes Today With Rebecca Pearson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s on-air strategy session, I'm joined by Rebecca Pearson, who recently acquired Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy. Rebecca finds herself facing several challenges during the transition, starting with smoothing out processes and creating SOPs. Rebecca’s situation might be unique, but it comes down to the same core problem that so many business owners face—how to find the time to create the systems and processes you know you need to make everything else run smoother. LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Pearson's Ah-Ha Moments: “It’s never going to feel like there's time for SOPs and regular meetings—you have to carve it out, or it just won’t happen.” – LuAnn “We can’t continue to give the same personal touch our clients expect if we don't have clear processes documented.” – Rebecca “You don’t know what you don’t know—so having processes documented ensures consistency, especially through transitions.” – Rebecca “These team meetings aren’t for no reason—a lot of good comes out of them.” – LuAnn More About Rebecca Pearson As Creative Services Director for Waterfield Hill, a family-run investment company focused on the interiors sector, I oversee business growth, design, brand, and marketing across our three subsidiaries—DBSJ, Denne Joinery, and Design I.D. After studying architecture at university, my career has spanned creative services in the interiors sector, working with contractors, consultants, and design studios before co-founding Waterfield Hill in 2022 alongside my father, mother, brother, and husband. Since then, we have strategically expanded our group — acquiring DBSJ in 2022, Denne Joinery in 2023, and Design I.D. in 2024 — with a shared vision: to create exceptional interiors, together. In 2024, we were honoured to be recognised by The Sunday Times as one of Britain’s Top 20 fastest-growing private companies and by Construction News as Fit-Out Specialist of the Year (DBSJ). My current focus is successfully integrating our latest acquisition, Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy, ensuring a seamless transition into our group. I thrive in fast-paced environments, bringing clarity and structure to complex challenges, and am dedicated to setting up our businesses for continued success, profitability, efficiency, and growth. Connect with Rebecca Pearson Website A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit Kravet Fri, 11 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Rebecca Pearson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s on-air strategy session, I'm joined by Rebecca Pearson, who recently acquired Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy. Rebecca finds herself facing several challenges during the transition, starting with smoothing out processes and creating SOPs. Rebecca’s situation might be unique, but it comes down to the same core problem that so many business owners face—how to find the time to create the systems and processes you know you need to make everything else run smoother. LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Pearson's Ah-Ha Moments: “It’s never going to feel like there's time for SOPs and regular meetings—you have to carve it out, or it just won’t happen.” – LuAnn “We can’t continue to give the same personal touch our clients expect if we don't have clear processes documented.” – Rebecca “You don’t know what you don’t know—so having processes documented ensures consistency, especially through transitions.” – Rebecca “These team meetings aren’t for no reason—a lot of good comes out of them.” – LuAnn More About Rebecca Pearson As Creative Services Director for Waterfield Hill, a family-run investment company focused on the interiors sector, I oversee business growth, design, brand, and marketing across our three subsidiaries—DBSJ, Denne Joinery, and Design I.D. After studying architecture at university, my career has spanned creative services in the interiors sector, working with contractors, consultants, and design studios before co-founding Waterfield Hill in 2022 alongside my father, mother, brother, and husband. Since then, we have strategically expanded our group — acquiring DBSJ in 2022, Denne Joinery in 2023, and Design I.D. in 2024 — with a shared vision: to create exceptional interiors, together. In 2024, we were honoured to be recognised by The Sunday Times as one of Britain’s Top 20 fastest-growing private companies and by Construction News as Fit-Out Specialist of the Year (DBSJ). My current focus is successfully integrating our latest acquisition, Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy, ensuring a seamless transition into our group. I thrive in fast-paced environments, bringing clarity and structure to complex challenges, and am dedicated to setting up our businesses for continued success, profitability, efficiency, and growth. Connect with Rebecca Pearson Website A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Design Trade Service What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit Kravet Today With Rebecca Pearson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s on-air strategy session,

I'm joined by Rebecca Pearson, who recently acquired Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy. Rebecca finds herself facing several challenges during the transition, starting with smoothing out processes and creating SOPs.


Rebecca’s situation might be unique, but it comes down to the same core problem that so many business owners face—how to find the time to create the systems and processes you know you need to make everything else run smoother.


LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Pearson's Ah-Ha Moments:

“It’s never going to feel like there's time for SOPs and regular meetings—you have to carve it out, or it just won’t happen.” – LuAnn

“We can’t continue to give the same personal touch our clients expect if we don't have clear processes documented.” – Rebecca

“You don’t know what you don’t know—so having processes documented ensures consistency, especially through transitions.” – Rebecca

“These team meetings aren’t for no reason—a lot of good comes out of them.” – LuAnn


More About Rebecca Pearson

As Creative Services Director for Waterfield Hill, a family-run investment company focused on the interiors sector, I oversee business growth, design, brand, and marketing across our three subsidiaries—DBSJ, Denne Joinery, and Design I.D.

After studying architecture at university, my career has spanned creative services in the interiors sector, working with contractors, consultants, and design studios before co-founding Waterfield Hill in 2022 alongside my father, mother, brother, and husband. Since then, we have strategically expanded our group — acquiring DBSJ in 2022, Denne Joinery in 2023, and Design I.D. in 2024 — with a shared vision: to create exceptional interiors, together. In 2024, we were honoured to be recognised by The Sunday Times as one of Britain’s Top 20 fastest-growing private companies and by Construction News as Fit-Out Specialist of the Year (DBSJ).

My current focus is successfully integrating our latest acquisition, Design I.D., an interior design and architectural refurbishment consultancy, ensuring a seamless transition into our group. I thrive in fast-paced environments, bringing clarity and structure to complex challenges, and am dedicated to setting up our businesses for continued success, profitability, efficiency, and growth.


Connect with Rebecca Pearson

Website


A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Design Trade Service


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today!

2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit

Kravet

]]> 4569 no 1077: Noel Gatts: Why Character-Driven Design Creates Authentic Spaces & Streamlines Your Process Today With Noel Gatts: Today I am joined by Noel Gatts, founder of beam&bloom interiors and HGTV Host on "Home Inspector Joe" and "What's Wrong With That House?" With a unique background spanning from Broadway to interior design, Noel brings a character-driven approach that transforms how designers connect with clients. In this episode, she reveals how her theatrical training informs her design process, helping her understand clients as "characters" with unique needs and stories, moving beyond standard questionnaires to questions that lead to deeper discovery. Through examples from both her design practice and television experience, Noel demonstrates how investing time in understanding clients' characters leads to fewer revisions, stronger relationships, and spaces that authentically reflect who they are. Her candid discussion about the realities of design television offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how designers create impact despite tight timelines and budget constraints, while providing practical strategies for creating a character-driven approach that saves time and builds trust in your own design business. LuAnn Nigara and Noel Gatts's Ah-Ha Moments: “We can learn so much if we don’t make it about what we want to do, but use our talents to enhance what the client wants to do,” - Noel Gatts More About Noel Gatts HGTV Host and Designer on two popular hour long renovation shows since 2022, “Home Inspector Joe” and “What’s Wrong With That House?” and creator of the “heart+home+harmony LIVE” series on Instagram and YouTube, Noel is known for her warm & spirited personality and her penchant for statement earrings. A hallmark of her ethos is her ability to authentically, compassionately & intuitively connect with her audience, colleagues and clients. Her character driven approach to design, and her focus on savvy and sustainable investments is prevalent in all of her work. Connect with Noel Gatts Beam & Bloom, Interior Design Studio Website Instagram Noel Gatts, TV/Hosting/Personality Page Website Instagram YouTube, Interior Enthusiast Chanel, with heart+home+harmony "podcast" LIVE archives YouTube TikTok LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! Other Shows: AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man AWDB # 833: Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #1005: Campbell Minister: Building a Referral Based Interior Design Business AWDB #704: Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue Tue, 08 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Noel Gatts: Today I am joined by Noel Gatts, founder of beam&bloom interiors and HGTV Host on "Home Inspector Joe" and "What's Wrong With That House?" With a unique background spanning from Broadway to interior design, Noel brings a character-driven approach that transforms how designers connect with clients. In this episode, she reveals how her theatrical training informs her design process, helping her understand clients as "characters" with unique needs and stories, moving beyond standard questionnaires to questions that lead to deeper discovery. Through examples from both her design practice and television experience, Noel demonstrates how investing time in understanding clients' characters leads to fewer revisions, stronger relationships, and spaces that authentically reflect who they are. Her candid discussion about the realities of design television offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how designers create impact despite tight timelines and budget constraints, while providing practical strategies for creating a character-driven approach that saves time and builds trust in your own design business. LuAnn Nigara and Noel Gatts's Ah-Ha Moments: “We can learn so much if we don’t make it about what we want to do, but use our talents to enhance what the client wants to do,” - Noel Gatts More About Noel Gatts HGTV Host and Designer on two popular hour long renovation shows since 2022, “Home Inspector Joe” and “What’s Wrong With That House?” and creator of the “heart+home+harmony LIVE” series on Instagram and YouTube, Noel is known for her warm & spirited personality and her penchant for statement earrings. A hallmark of her ethos is her ability to authentically, compassionately & intuitively connect with her audience, colleagues and clients. Her character driven approach to design, and her focus on savvy and sustainable investments is prevalent in all of her work. Connect with Noel Gatts Beam & Bloom, Interior Design Studio Website Instagram Noel Gatts, TV/Hosting/Personality Page Website Instagram YouTube, Interior Enthusiast Chanel, with heart+home+harmony "podcast" LIVE archives YouTube TikTok LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today! Other Shows: AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man AWDB # 833: Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #1005: Campbell Minister: Building a Referral Based Interior Design Business AWDB #704: Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue Today With Noel Gatts:

Today I am joined by Noel Gatts, founder of beam&bloom interiors and HGTV Host on "Home Inspector Joe" and "What's Wrong With That House?" With a unique background spanning from Broadway to interior design, Noel brings a character-driven approach that transforms how designers connect with clients. In this episode, she reveals how her theatrical training informs her design process, helping her understand clients as "characters" with unique needs and stories, moving beyond standard questionnaires to questions that lead to deeper discovery.

Through examples from both her design practice and television experience, Noel demonstrates how investing time in understanding clients' characters leads to fewer revisions, stronger relationships, and spaces that authentically reflect who they are. Her candid discussion about the realities of design television offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how designers create impact despite tight timelines and budget constraints, while providing practical strategies for creating a character-driven approach that saves time and builds trust in your own design business.


LuAnn Nigara and Noel Gatts's Ah-Ha Moments:

“We can learn so much if we don’t make it about what we want to do, but use our talents to enhance what the client wants to do,” - Noel Gatts


More About Noel Gatts

HGTV Host and Designer on two popular hour long renovation shows since 2022, “Home Inspector Joe” and “What’s Wrong With That House?” and creator of the “heart+home+harmony LIVE” series on Instagram and YouTube, Noel is known for her warm & spirited personality and her penchant for statement earrings. A hallmark of her ethos is her ability to authentically, compassionately & intuitively connect with her audience, colleagues and clients. Her character driven approach to design, and her focus on savvy and sustainable investments is prevalent in all of her work.


Connect with Noel Gatts

Beam & Bloom, Interior Design Studio

Website

Instagram

Noel Gatts, TV/Hosting/Personality Page

Website

Instagram

YouTube, Interior Enthusiast Chanel, with heart+home+harmony "podcast" LIVE archives

YouTube

TikTok

LinkedIn


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Design Trade Service - Sign Up Today!


Other Shows:

AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man

AWDB # 833: Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done

AWDB #1005: Campbell Minister: Building a Referral Based Interior Design Business

AWDB #704: Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue

]]> 4444 no 1076: Power Talk Friday: Porsche Williams: Create a Better Client Experience by Outsourcing Interior Design Back-End Tasks Today With Porsche Williams: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Porsche Williams, founder of The Prototype, joins me to discuss the power of streamlined backend operations for interior designers. Porsche’s company specializes in seamlessly managing client onboarding, discovery calls, lead management, and more, freeing designers from administrative overwhelm. She believes that “your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized” (a money line if ever I’ve heard one)! Today, she shares how delegating tasks leads to a better client experience, more creativity, and more profitability. LuAnn Nigara and Porsche Williams's Ah-Ha Moments: “Your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized.” - Porsche Williams "Just because it’s on your to-do list doesn't mean you have to be the one checking it off." - Porsche Williams "Clients don’t expect you to handle every detail personally; they expect professionalism, clarity, and consistency in your process." - LuAnn Nigara More About Porsche Williams Porsche Williams is the CEO of The Prototype, a Business Concierge firm dedicated to supporting interior designers, leaders, and entrepreneurs. The Prototype enhances the client experience for interior design firms by handling essential business tasks, allowing designers to focus on their craft. With a team of Client Experience Specialists, they serve clients across the US, Canada, and Australia. The Prototype partners with IDS, ASID, Business of Design, and Business of Home, and was awarded the inaugural ASID Diversity in Design Small Business Grant in 2024. Connect with Porsche Williams Website Instagram LinkedIn Free 30-minute Client Experience Audit for LuAnn Listeners! Plus, LuAnn Listeners will get an exclusive bonus for our self-paced course “The Designer’s Guide to Reliable Lead Generation”! Open for enrollment from today to April 11th! Unlock the Secrets to Successful Discovery Calls The Prototype - Apply To Work With Us Free Resource - The Lead Generation Jumpstart What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Jenny Blake's Concept of Permission Slips Episode Fri, 04 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Porsche Williams: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Porsche Williams, founder of The Prototype, joins me to discuss the power of streamlined backend operations for interior designers. Porsche’s company specializes in seamlessly managing client onboarding, discovery calls, lead management, and more, freeing designers from administrative overwhelm. She believes that “your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized” (a money line if ever I’ve heard one)! Today, she shares how delegating tasks leads to a better client experience, more creativity, and more profitability. LuAnn Nigara and Porsche Williams's Ah-Ha Moments: “Your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized.” - Porsche Williams "Just because it’s on your to-do list doesn't mean you have to be the one checking it off." - Porsche Williams "Clients don’t expect you to handle every detail personally; they expect professionalism, clarity, and consistency in your process." - LuAnn Nigara More About Porsche Williams Porsche Williams is the CEO of The Prototype, a Business Concierge firm dedicated to supporting interior designers, leaders, and entrepreneurs. The Prototype enhances the client experience for interior design firms by handling essential business tasks, allowing designers to focus on their craft. With a team of Client Experience Specialists, they serve clients across the US, Canada, and Australia. The Prototype partners with IDS, ASID, Business of Design, and Business of Home, and was awarded the inaugural ASID Diversity in Design Small Business Grant in 2024. Connect with Porsche Williams Website Instagram LinkedIn Free 30-minute Client Experience Audit for LuAnn Listeners! Plus, LuAnn Listeners will get an exclusive bonus for our self-paced course “The Designer’s Guide to Reliable Lead Generation”! Open for enrollment from today to April 11th! Unlock the Secrets to Successful Discovery Calls The Prototype - Apply To Work With Us Free Resource - The Lead Generation Jumpstart What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Jenny Blake's Concept of Permission Slips Episode Today With Porsche Williams:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Porsche Williams, founder of The Prototype, joins me to discuss the power of streamlined backend operations for interior designers.

Porsche’s company specializes in seamlessly managing client onboarding, discovery calls, lead management, and more, freeing designers from administrative overwhelm. She believes that “your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized” (a money line if ever I’ve heard one)! Today, she shares how delegating tasks leads to a better client experience, more creativity, and more profitability.


LuAnn Nigara and Porsche Williams's Ah-Ha Moments:

“Your creativity thrives when your business operations are optimized.” - Porsche Williams

"Just because it’s on your to-do list doesn't mean you have to be the one checking it off." - Porsche Williams

"Clients don’t expect you to handle every detail personally; they expect professionalism, clarity, and consistency in your process." - LuAnn Nigara


More About Porsche Williams

Porsche Williams is the CEO of The Prototype, a Business Concierge firm dedicated to supporting interior designers, leaders, and entrepreneurs. The Prototype enhances the client experience for interior design firms by handling essential business tasks, allowing designers to focus on their craft. With a team of Client Experience Specialists, they serve clients across the US, Canada, and Australia. The Prototype partners with IDS, ASID, Business of Design, and Business of Home, and was awarded the inaugural ASID Diversity in Design Small Business Grant in 2024.


Connect with Porsche Williams

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Free 30-minute Client Experience Audit for LuAnn Listeners!

Plus, LuAnn Listeners will get an exclusive bonus for our self-paced course “The Designer’s Guide to Reliable Lead Generation”! Open for enrollment from today to April 11th!

Unlock the Secrets to Successful Discovery Calls

The Prototype - Apply To Work With Us

Free Resource - The Lead Generation Jumpstart


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Jenny Blake's Concept of Permission Slips Episode

]]> 3458 no 1075: What Would Lu Do?: The Ultimate Guide to Mounting a Designer Show House Today With LuAnn Nigara: Are you thinking about saying yes to a designer show house? Before you commit, listen to this episode. A show house can be an incredible opportunity—but only if you approach it the right way. Too many designers assume that just participating will bring them business. It won’t. Today, I’m sharing the smartest, most strategic insights from three powerhouse designers at different stages in their careers: 🎨 Barbara Ostrom – The "Queen of Show Houses" explains why some rooms bring in clients while others don’t. 🏡 Laura Hodges – Managed an entire Southern Living Idea House and reveals how to juggle a massive project while keeping your business on track. 🛁 Naika Andre – A first-timer who learned, the hard way, what works, what doesn’t, and what she’ll do differently next time. We’ll cover: ✅ The real costs (hint: it’s not just the furniture) ✅ How to make sure a show house actually leads to press and clients ✅ Why marketing yourself is non-negotiable—no one will do it for you ✅ The tight deadlines and fast decision-making required to pull it off If you’re serious about making a show house work for your business, this is the episode for you. And if you want more details, listen to the full interviews with Barbara, Laura, and Naika—links are in the show notes. PLUS: If you’re in NJ, PA, or NY, check out the Mansion in May and Bucks County Designer House, where Hannah Goldberg and Lori Bruno will be showcasing their work. Window Works is honored to be providing the window treatments for both! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Mansion in May Bucks County Designer House & Gardens Other Shows: AWDB #08: Barbara Ostrom: Curtain Up! Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse AWDB #1055: Naïka André: Do It Scared – A Designer’s Journey Through Her First Show House Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Are you thinking about saying yes to a designer show house? Before you commit, listen to this episode. A show house can be an incredible opportunity—but only if you approach it the right way. Too many designers assume that just participating will bring them business. It won’t. Today, I’m sharing the smartest, most strategic insights from three powerhouse designers at different stages in their careers: 🎨 Barbara Ostrom – The "Queen of Show Houses" explains why some rooms bring in clients while others don’t. 🏡 Laura Hodges – Managed an entire Southern Living Idea House and reveals how to juggle a massive project while keeping your business on track. 🛁 Naika Andre – A first-timer who learned, the hard way, what works, what doesn’t, and what she’ll do differently next time. We’ll cover: ✅ The real costs (hint: it’s not just the furniture) ✅ How to make sure a show house actually leads to press and clients ✅ Why marketing yourself is non-negotiable—no one will do it for you ✅ The tight deadlines and fast decision-making required to pull it off If you’re serious about making a show house work for your business, this is the episode for you. And if you want more details, listen to the full interviews with Barbara, Laura, and Naika—links are in the show notes. PLUS: If you’re in NJ, PA, or NY, check out the Mansion in May and Bucks County Designer House, where Hannah Goldberg and Lori Bruno will be showcasing their work. Window Works is honored to be providing the window treatments for both! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Mansion in May Bucks County Designer House & Gardens Other Shows: AWDB #08: Barbara Ostrom: Curtain Up! Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse AWDB #1055: Naïka André: Do It Scared – A Designer’s Journey Through Her First Show House Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Are you thinking about saying yes to a designer show house? Before you commit, listen to this episode.

A show house can be an incredible opportunity—but only if you approach it the right way. Too many designers assume that just participating will bring them business. It won’t.

Today, I’m sharing the smartest, most strategic insights from three powerhouse designers at different stages in their careers:

🎨 Barbara Ostrom – The "Queen of Show Houses" explains why some rooms bring in clients while others don’t.

🏡 Laura Hodges – Managed an entire Southern Living Idea House and reveals how to juggle a massive project while keeping your business on track.

🛁 Naika Andre – A first-timer who learned, the hard way, what works, what doesn’t, and what she’ll do differently next time.


We’ll cover:

✅ The real costs (hint: it’s not just the furniture)

✅ How to make sure a show house actually leads to press and clients

✅ Why marketing yourself is non-negotiable—no one will do it for you

✅ The tight deadlines and fast decision-making required to pull it off

If you’re serious about making a show house work for your business, this is the episode for you.

And if you want more details, listen to the full interviews with Barbara, Laura, and Naika—links are in the show notes.


PLUS: If you’re in NJ, PA, or NY, check out the Mansion in May and Bucks County Designer House, where Hannah Goldberg and Lori Bruno will be showcasing their work. Window Works is honored to be providing the window treatments for both!


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Mansion in May

Bucks County Designer House & Gardens


Other Shows:

AWDB #08: Barbara Ostrom: Curtain Up! Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms

AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse

AWDB #1055: Naïka André: Do It Scared – A Designer’s Journey Through Her First Show House


]]> 981 no 1074: Live from KBIS 2025: Alexander Dornbracht on Kallista, Creating Authentic Luxury, Product Innovation & Family Legacy Today With Alexander Dornbracht: Today I am joined by Alexander Dornbracht, VP and General Manager of Kallista, a brand renowned for authentic luxury plumbing and brassware. Recorded live from our KBIS podcast booth, Alexander shares how his family legacy in the industry—his grandfather founded Dornbracht—shaped his passion for excellence in design. Alexander reveals why Kallista stands out as a designer-driven luxury brand, explaining that despite its premium positioning, they maintain the personal touch that designers value. He discusses his passion for product development and shares his philosophy: "If you lead with the best possible design product at the highest quality with the best after-sales service, that's a solid foundation to win." Learn about Kallista's engineering innovations, including the industry's thinnest spout and custom stone tubs, plus their evolution from working with small European suppliers to becoming part of the Kohler family while maintaining their distinct luxury identity. Whether you specify luxury products or appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, this episode offers valuable insights into how true luxury brands balance heritage with innovation. LuAnn Nigara and Alexander Dornbracht's Ah-Ha Moments: “We are the brand that can always say yes to the designer vision,” - Alexander Dornbracht More About Alexander Dornbracht Alexander serves as the Managing Director for Kallista, a leading luxury brassware brand in the global bathroom and kitchen space. He built his career within multiple roles in sales and marketing organizations across a variety of industries and holds an intl. MBA from the University of San Diego. His heritage in the kitchen and bath industry has allowed him to grow up with a unique perspective and depth of knowledge, that continues to serve as a strong foundation for leadership and entrepreneurship.​ Alexander found his true passion in the interior design community and is committed to driving industry innovation and evolution in the luxury goods sector.​ Connect with Alexander Dornbracht Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB: 1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Alexander Dornbracht: Today I am joined by Alexander Dornbracht, VP and General Manager of Kallista, a brand renowned for authentic luxury plumbing and brassware. Recorded live from our KBIS podcast booth, Alexander shares how his family legacy in the industry—his grandfather founded Dornbracht—shaped his passion for excellence in design. Alexander reveals why Kallista stands out as a designer-driven luxury brand, explaining that despite its premium positioning, they maintain the personal touch that designers value. He discusses his passion for product development and shares his philosophy: "If you lead with the best possible design product at the highest quality with the best after-sales service, that's a solid foundation to win." Learn about Kallista's engineering innovations, including the industry's thinnest spout and custom stone tubs, plus their evolution from working with small European suppliers to becoming part of the Kohler family while maintaining their distinct luxury identity. Whether you specify luxury products or appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, this episode offers valuable insights into how true luxury brands balance heritage with innovation. LuAnn Nigara and Alexander Dornbracht's Ah-Ha Moments: “We are the brand that can always say yes to the designer vision,” - Alexander Dornbracht More About Alexander Dornbracht Alexander serves as the Managing Director for Kallista, a leading luxury brassware brand in the global bathroom and kitchen space. He built his career within multiple roles in sales and marketing organizations across a variety of industries and holds an intl. MBA from the University of San Diego. His heritage in the kitchen and bath industry has allowed him to grow up with a unique perspective and depth of knowledge, that continues to serve as a strong foundation for leadership and entrepreneurship.​ Alexander found his true passion in the interior design community and is committed to driving industry innovation and evolution in the luxury goods sector.​ Connect with Alexander Dornbracht Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB: 1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career Today With Alexander Dornbracht:

Today I am joined by Alexander Dornbracht, VP and General Manager of Kallista, a brand renowned for authentic luxury plumbing and brassware. Recorded live from our KBIS podcast booth, Alexander shares how his family legacy in the industry—his grandfather founded Dornbracht—shaped his passion for excellence in design.

Alexander reveals why Kallista stands out as a designer-driven luxury brand, explaining that despite its premium positioning, they maintain the personal touch that designers value. He discusses his passion for product development and shares his philosophy: "If you lead with the best possible design product at the highest quality with the best after-sales service, that's a solid foundation to win."

Learn about Kallista's engineering innovations, including the industry's thinnest spout and custom stone tubs, plus their evolution from working with small European suppliers to becoming part of the Kohler family while maintaining their distinct luxury identity.

Whether you specify luxury products or appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, this episode offers valuable insights into how true luxury brands balance heritage with innovation.


LuAnn Nigara and Alexander Dornbracht's Ah-Ha Moments:

“We are the brand that can always say yes to the designer vision,” - Alexander Dornbracht


More About Alexander Dornbracht

Alexander serves as the Managing Director for Kallista, a leading luxury brassware brand in the global bathroom and kitchen space. He built his career within multiple roles in sales and marketing organizations across a variety of industries and holds an intl. MBA from the University of San Diego.

His heritage in the kitchen and bath industry has allowed him to grow up with a unique perspective and depth of knowledge, that continues to serve as a strong foundation for leadership and entrepreneurship.​

Alexander found his true passion in the interior design community and is committed to driving industry innovation and evolution in the luxury goods sector.​


Connect with Alexander Dornbracht

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

LinkedIn

Houzz


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!


Other Shows:

AWDB: 1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career

]]> 2844 no 1073: On Air Strategy Session: Jessie Surber – Embrace Your Small Market to Set Up Long-Term Success Today With Jessie Surber: In this On-Air Strategy Session, I work with Jessie Surber of Jessie Surber Design to tackle the challenge of growing a design business in a small town. Based in Greenville, Ohio (population 12,000), Jessie is passionate about British-inspired interiors but struggles with converting website visitors into inquiries. I provide strategic guidance on whether to fully embrace her niche now or take a more gradual approach while building her client base, particularly considering her young family. This episode offers valuable insights for designers in smaller markets, those balancing business growth with family responsibilities, and anyone questioning how much to niche down in the early stages of business. LuAnn Nigara and Jessie Surber's Ah-Ha Moments: “Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jessie Surber Jessie Surber is the founder and principal designer of Jessie Surber Design, a full-service interior design firm with a passion for British-inspired interiors. Driven by her love of art and craftsmanship, she helps clients create warm and personal homes designed for the way they live. With a background in home renovations and construction, Jessie has a keen eye for detail and a practical approach to transforming spaces. She has worked on full-scale renovations, home additions, and custom design projects, collaborating closely with contractors and artisans to bring her client’s visions to life. When she’s not designing, Jessie loves exploring art galleries, gardening, and spending time with her three children—which fuels her creativity. Connect with Jessie Surber Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! New blog: Why Niching Your Business is the Smartest Move You’ll Ever Make On Air Strategy Sessions with LuAnn Other Shows: 316: Wendy Woloshchuk: FaceBook: The Primary Marketing Tool for Her Interior Design Business 527: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action 840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessie Surber: In this On-Air Strategy Session, I work with Jessie Surber of Jessie Surber Design to tackle the challenge of growing a design business in a small town. Based in Greenville, Ohio (population 12,000), Jessie is passionate about British-inspired interiors but struggles with converting website visitors into inquiries. I provide strategic guidance on whether to fully embrace her niche now or take a more gradual approach while building her client base, particularly considering her young family. This episode offers valuable insights for designers in smaller markets, those balancing business growth with family responsibilities, and anyone questioning how much to niche down in the early stages of business. LuAnn Nigara and Jessie Surber's Ah-Ha Moments: “Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jessie Surber Jessie Surber is the founder and principal designer of Jessie Surber Design, a full-service interior design firm with a passion for British-inspired interiors. Driven by her love of art and craftsmanship, she helps clients create warm and personal homes designed for the way they live. With a background in home renovations and construction, Jessie has a keen eye for detail and a practical approach to transforming spaces. She has worked on full-scale renovations, home additions, and custom design projects, collaborating closely with contractors and artisans to bring her client’s visions to life. When she’s not designing, Jessie loves exploring art galleries, gardening, and spending time with her three children—which fuels her creativity. Connect with Jessie Surber Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! New blog: Why Niching Your Business is the Smartest Move You’ll Ever Make On Air Strategy Sessions with LuAnn Other Shows: 316: Wendy Woloshchuk: FaceBook: The Primary Marketing Tool for Her Interior Design Business 527: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action 840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life Today With Jessie Surber:

In this On-Air Strategy Session, I work with Jessie Surber of Jessie Surber Design to tackle the challenge of growing a design business in a small town. Based in Greenville, Ohio (population 12,000), Jessie is passionate about British-inspired interiors but struggles with converting website visitors into inquiries. I provide strategic guidance on whether to fully embrace her niche now or take a more gradual approach while building her client base, particularly considering her young family. This episode offers valuable insights for designers in smaller markets, those balancing business growth with family responsibilities, and anyone questioning how much to niche down in the early stages of business.


LuAnn Nigara and Jessie Surber's Ah-Ha Moments:

“Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara


More About Jessie Surber

Jessie Surber is the founder and principal designer of Jessie Surber Design, a full-service interior design firm with a passion for British-inspired interiors. Driven by her love of art and craftsmanship, she helps clients create warm and personal homes designed for the way they live.

With a background in home renovations and construction, Jessie has a keen eye for detail and a practical approach to transforming spaces. She has worked on full-scale renovations, home additions, and custom design projects, collaborating closely with contractors and artisans to bring her client’s visions to life.

When she’s not designing, Jessie loves exploring art galleries, gardening, and spending time with her three children—which fuels her creativity.


Connect with Jessie Surber

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

New blog: Why Niching Your Business is the Smartest Move You’ll Ever Make

On Air Strategy Sessions with LuAnn


Other Shows:

316: Wendy Woloshchuk: FaceBook: The Primary Marketing Tool for Her Interior Design Business

527: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action

840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life


]]> 4170 no 1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury Today With Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: In today’s episode, I sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, the visionary co-founders of Alkemis Paint. What started as a personal search for a healthier alternative to conventional paint turned into a groundbreaking company redefining the industry with plastic-free, plant-based, high-performance paint. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why most conventional paints contain plastic—and how that impacts indoor air quality and the environment ✔️ How Maya and Price turned a personal frustration into a thriving business that challenges industry norms ✔️ The power of educating your clients about healthier, smarter alternatives ✔️ Actionable strategies for building a brand that aligns with your values ✔️ How to differentiate your business by identifying gaps in the market LuAnn Nigara, Maya Crowne & Price Latimers Ah-Ha Moments: "We’ve been painting our walls with plastic for decades—without questioning it. Once we realized that, we knew there had to be a better way." – Maya Crowne "If we care about clean beauty, organic food, and air purifiers, why aren’t we thinking about the air we breathe inside our own homes?" – Price Latimer "Innovation starts with frustration. I couldn’t paint my tiny apartment without suffocating—so I started asking why paint has to be this way in the first place." – Maya Crowne More About Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Maya Crowne, CEO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint After a successful corporate career, I felt the desire to return to my creative roots and focus on my love of color by creating a paint company that is truly all-natural, non-toxic and sustainable, with the addition of functional wellness benefits. Price Latimer, CCO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint Humans currently spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. Whether in residential or public settings, we are invariably surrounded by paint products almost every minute of the day and yet are often oblivious to their deleterious aspects. Alkemis Paint was founded because we can—and we must—do better for ourselves and for the planet. It is well-established that colors, nature, and aesthetics can positively influence our mood. Connect with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today With Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: In today’s episode, I sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, the visionary co-founders of Alkemis Paint. What started as a personal search for a healthier alternative to conventional paint turned into a groundbreaking company redefining the industry with plastic-free, plant-based, high-performance paint. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why most conventional paints contain plastic—and how that impacts indoor air quality and the environment ✔️ How Maya and Price turned a personal frustration into a thriving business that challenges industry norms ✔️ The power of educating your clients about healthier, smarter alternatives ✔️ Actionable strategies for building a brand that aligns with your values ✔️ How to differentiate your business by identifying gaps in the market LuAnn Nigara, Maya Crowne & Price Latimers Ah-Ha Moments: "We’ve been painting our walls with plastic for decades—without questioning it. Once we realized that, we knew there had to be a better way." – Maya Crowne "If we care about clean beauty, organic food, and air purifiers, why aren’t we thinking about the air we breathe inside our own homes?" – Price Latimer "Innovation starts with frustration. I couldn’t paint my tiny apartment without suffocating—so I started asking why paint has to be this way in the first place." – Maya Crowne More About Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Maya Crowne, CEO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint After a successful corporate career, I felt the desire to return to my creative roots and focus on my love of color by creating a paint company that is truly all-natural, non-toxic and sustainable, with the addition of functional wellness benefits. Price Latimer, CCO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint Humans currently spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. Whether in residential or public settings, we are invariably surrounded by paint products almost every minute of the day and yet are often oblivious to their deleterious aspects. Alkemis Paint was founded because we can—and we must—do better for ourselves and for the planet. It is well-established that colors, nature, and aesthetics can positively influence our mood. Connect with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development Today With Maya Crowne & Price Latimer:

In today’s episode, I sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, the visionary co-founders of Alkemis Paint. What started as a personal search for a healthier alternative to conventional paint turned into a groundbreaking company redefining the industry with plastic-free, plant-based, high-performance paint.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ Why most conventional paints contain plastic—and how that impacts indoor air quality and the environment

✔️ How Maya and Price turned a personal frustration into a thriving business that challenges industry norms

✔️ The power of educating your clients about healthier, smarter alternatives

✔️ Actionable strategies for building a brand that aligns with your values

✔️ How to differentiate your business by identifying gaps in the market


LuAnn Nigara, Maya Crowne & Price Latimers Ah-Ha Moments:

"We’ve been painting our walls with plastic for decades—without questioning it. Once we realized that, we knew there had to be a better way." – Maya Crowne


"If we care about clean beauty, organic food, and air purifiers, why aren’t we thinking about the air we breathe inside our own homes?" – Price Latimer


"Innovation starts with frustration. I couldn’t paint my tiny apartment without suffocating—so I started asking why paint has to be this way in the first place." – Maya Crowne


More About Maya Crowne & Price Latimer

Maya Crowne, CEO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint

After a successful corporate career, I felt the desire to return to my creative roots and focus on my love of color by creating a paint company that is truly all-natural, non-toxic and sustainable, with the addition of functional wellness benefits.


Price Latimer, CCO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint

Humans currently spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. Whether in residential or public settings, we are invariably surrounded by paint products almost every minute of the day and yet are often oblivious to their deleterious aspects. Alkemis Paint was founded because we can—and we must—do better for ourselves and for the planet. It is well-established that colors, nature, and aesthetics can positively influence our mood.


Connect with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

LinkedIn


What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob


Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!


Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2


Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast


Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!


Other Shows:

AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

]]> 3927 no 1071: Brenda Danso: How Interior Designers Can Protect Their Mental Health & Avoid Burnout Today With Brenda Danso: As an interior designer, you do more than create beautiful spaces—you guide clients through major life transitions, juggle countless responsibilities, and often take on an emotional load that goes far beyond design. But how do you protect your own well-being in the process? In this episode, Brenda Danso, founder of BD Interior Design and mental health expert, shares powerful insights on recognizing burnout, managing stress, and creating environments that promote emotional well-being—for both yourself and your clients. Learn how to set boundaries, navigate emotionally charged client interactions, and design a business that truly supports your mental health. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly running on empty, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable design business. LuAnn Nigara and Brenda Danso’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes it looks like resentment—toward your work, your clients, or even yourself for taking on too much.” – Brenda Danso “Your business should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it doesn’t, you have to step back and ask—what needs to change?” – Brenda Danso “Success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel while making it. If you’re constantly drained and stressed, is that really the business you want?” – LuAnn Nigara “Sometimes we’re so busy pushing forward that we don’t realize we’re running on empty. Taking a pause isn’t failure—it’s what allows you to keep going.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Brenda Danso Brenda Danso, the visionary behind BD Interior Design, brings a unique perspective that intertwines mental health and design. Originally from California, she seamlessly transitioned from a career in mental health therapy to pursuing her true passion for design. Brenda is widely acclaimed for her approachable nature, making her clients feel comfortable and understood throughout the design process. In addition to her design expertise, Brenda has emerged as a trusted figure in the design world. She frequently shares her insights and knowledge as a recognized expert on Cityline TV, where she delves into the intersection of design, well-being, and mental health. With her deep understanding of branding and mental health, Brenda has achieved remarkable success, becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs alike. Connect with Brenda Danso Website Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business AWDB #940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 Brenda Danso: How Interior Designers Can Protect Their Mental Health & Avoid Burnout full 1071 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brenda Danso: As an interior designer, you do more than create beautiful spaces—you guide clients through major life transitions, juggle countless responsibilities, and often take on an emotional load that goes far beyond design. But how do you protect your own well-being in the process? In this episode, Brenda Danso, founder of BD Interior Design and mental health expert, shares powerful insights on recognizing burnout, managing stress, and creating environments that promote emotional well-being—for both yourself and your clients. Learn how to set boundaries, navigate emotionally charged client interactions, and design a business that truly supports your mental health. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly running on empty, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable design business. LuAnn Nigara and Brenda Danso’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes it looks like resentment—toward your work, your clients, or even yourself for taking on too much.” – Brenda Danso “Your business should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it doesn’t, you have to step back and ask—what needs to change?” – Brenda Danso “Success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel while making it. If you’re constantly drained and stressed, is that really the business you want?” – LuAnn Nigara “Sometimes we’re so busy pushing forward that we don’t realize we’re running on empty. Taking a pause isn’t failure—it’s what allows you to keep going.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Brenda Danso Brenda Danso, the visionary behind BD Interior Design, brings a unique perspective that intertwines mental health and design. Originally from California, she seamlessly transitioned from a career in mental health therapy to pursuing her true passion for design. Brenda is widely acclaimed for her approachable nature, making her clients feel comfortable and understood throughout the design process. In addition to her design expertise, Brenda has emerged as a trusted figure in the design world. She frequently shares her insights and knowledge as a recognized expert on Cityline TV, where she delves into the intersection of design, well-being, and mental health. With her deep understanding of branding and mental health, Brenda has achieved remarkable success, becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs alike. Connect with Brenda Danso Website Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business AWDB #940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry Today With Brenda Danso:

As an interior designer, you do more than create beautiful spaces—you guide clients through major life transitions, juggle countless responsibilities, and often take on an emotional load that goes far beyond design. But how do you protect your own well-being in the process?

In this episode, Brenda Danso, founder of BD Interior Design and mental health expert, shares powerful insights on recognizing burnout, managing stress, and creating environments that promote emotional well-being—for both yourself and your clients. Learn how to set boundaries, navigate emotionally charged client interactions, and design a business that truly supports your mental health.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly running on empty, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable design business.

LuAnn Nigara and Brenda Danso’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes it looks like resentment—toward your work, your clients, or even yourself for taking on too much.” – Brenda Danso

“Your business should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it doesn’t, you have to step back and ask—what needs to change?” – Brenda Danso

“Success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel while making it. If you’re constantly drained and stressed, is that really the business you want?” – LuAnn Nigara

“Sometimes we’re so busy pushing forward that we don’t realize we’re running on empty. Taking a pause isn’t failure—it’s what allows you to keep going.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Brenda Danso

Brenda Danso, the visionary behind BD Interior Design, brings a unique perspective that intertwines mental health and design. Originally from California, she seamlessly transitioned from a career in mental health therapy to pursuing her true passion for design. Brenda is widely acclaimed for her approachable nature, making her clients feel comfortable and understood throughout the design process.

In addition to her design expertise, Brenda has emerged as a trusted figure in the design world. She frequently shares her insights and knowledge as a recognized expert on Cityline TV, where she delves into the intersection of design, well-being, and mental health. With her deep understanding of branding and mental health, Brenda has achieved remarkable success, becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs alike.

Connect with Brenda Danso

Website

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

AWDB #940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry

]]> 4666 no 1070: Sponsored Show: Peter and Alex Spalding: Daniel House Club: Simplifying Furniture Acquisition Today With Peter and Alex Spalding: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Peter and Alex Spalding, founders of Daniel House Club. Daniel House Club is a designer trade program that provides access to a vast network of vendors, offering countless product options, concierge services, and tools to simplify procurement, shipping, and admin. Peter and Alex are committed to keeping their program simple and supportive for designers—and they’ve built that goal into every step of their process. Today, they’re here to share their story and tell us how Daniel House Club can help you streamline furniture acquisition and remove headaches and hassle from your projects. LuAnn Nigara, Peter and Alex Spalding’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Let's be real, you're a designer, you should be able to design a home, not design a logistics spreadsheet." -LuAnn "What I do like about this is it has given me the ability to be profitable working at a different range. I can do a $300,000 living room for one client and still help someone furnish their home for $25,000 without losing my shirt." -Peter "We look for simple, not easy. Our goal is to make life easier for designers, even if it means things are more complicated for us on the back end." -Alex More About Peter and Alex Spalding We started out like many of you—running a design firm, juggling countless projects, and chasing slim margins. As we scaled, we noticed something surprising: the part of the business that kept our doors open wasn’t our design services—it was furniture sales. That realization changed everything. We decided to rethink the way interior designers source and sell furniture. What if we could simplify it? What if we could make it more profitable? What if we could create a platform that frees designers to focus on their craft instead of chasing vendors and managing endless logistics? That’s exactly what Daniel House Club is today. We’ve streamlined the process of acquiring and reselling furniture so you can spend less time on admin and more time doing what you do best. Whether you’re working on a single room or a full-scale project, our tools and resources are designed to make your business not only run smoother—but thrive. We’re here to make your work easier, your profits stronger, and your clients happier. Connect with Peter and Alex Spalding Website Instagram Pinterest Fri, 14 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 Sponsored Show: Peter and Alex Spalding: Daniel House Club: Simplifying Furniture Acquisition full 1070 LuAnn Nigara Today With Peter and Alex Spalding: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Peter and Alex Spalding, founders of Daniel House Club. Daniel House Club is a designer trade program that provides access to a vast network of vendors, offering countless product options, concierge services, and tools to simplify procurement, shipping, and admin. Peter and Alex are committed to keeping their program simple and supportive for designers—and they’ve built that goal into every step of their process. Today, they’re here to share their story and tell us how Daniel House Club can help you streamline furniture acquisition and remove headaches and hassle from your projects. LuAnn Nigara, Peter and Alex Spalding’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Let's be real, you're a designer, you should be able to design a home, not design a logistics spreadsheet." -LuAnn "What I do like about this is it has given me the ability to be profitable working at a different range. I can do a $300,000 living room for one client and still help someone furnish their home for $25,000 without losing my shirt." -Peter "We look for simple, not easy. Our goal is to make life easier for designers, even if it means things are more complicated for us on the back end." -Alex More About Peter and Alex Spalding We started out like many of you—running a design firm, juggling countless projects, and chasing slim margins. As we scaled, we noticed something surprising: the part of the business that kept our doors open wasn’t our design services—it was furniture sales. That realization changed everything. We decided to rethink the way interior designers source and sell furniture. What if we could simplify it? What if we could make it more profitable? What if we could create a platform that frees designers to focus on their craft instead of chasing vendors and managing endless logistics? That’s exactly what Daniel House Club is today. We’ve streamlined the process of acquiring and reselling furniture so you can spend less time on admin and more time doing what you do best. Whether you’re working on a single room or a full-scale project, our tools and resources are designed to make your business not only run smoother—but thrive. We’re here to make your work easier, your profits stronger, and your clients happier. Connect with Peter and Alex Spalding Website Instagram Pinterest Today With Peter and Alex Spalding:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Peter and Alex Spalding, founders of Daniel House Club.

Daniel House Club is a designer trade program that provides access to a vast network of vendors, offering countless product options, concierge services, and tools to simplify procurement, shipping, and admin.

Peter and Alex are committed to keeping their program simple and supportive for designers—and they’ve built that goal into every step of their process.

Today, they’re here to share their story and tell us how Daniel House Club can help you streamline furniture acquisition and remove headaches and hassle from your projects.

LuAnn Nigara, Peter and Alex Spalding’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Let's be real, you're a designer, you should be able to design a home, not design a logistics spreadsheet." -LuAnn

"What I do like about this is it has given me the ability to be profitable working at a different range. I can do a $300,000 living room for one client and still help someone furnish their home for $25,000 without losing my shirt." -Peter

"We look for simple, not easy. Our goal is to make life easier for designers, even if it means things are more complicated for us on the back end." -Alex

More About Peter and Alex Spalding

We started out like many of you—running a design firm, juggling countless projects, and chasing slim margins. As we scaled, we noticed something surprising: the part of the business that kept our doors open wasn’t our design services—it was furniture sales.

That realization changed everything.

We decided to rethink the way interior designers source and sell furniture. What if we could simplify it? What if we could make it more profitable? What if we could create a platform that frees designers to focus on their craft instead of chasing vendors and managing endless logistics?

That’s exactly what Daniel House Club is today. We’ve streamlined the process of acquiring and reselling furniture so you can spend less time on admin and more time doing what you do best.

Whether you’re working on a single room or a full-scale project, our tools and resources are designed to make your business not only run smoother—but thrive.

We’re here to make your work easier, your profits stronger, and your clients happier.

Connect with Peter and Alex Spalding

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

]]> 4448 no 1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career Today With Richard Anuszkiewicz: Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-end kitchen and bath design with the incredibly talented Richard Anuszkiewicz. As an award-winning designer and industry thought leader, Richard has built a name for himself through his innovative approach, brand collaborations, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we uncover the key ingredients that set luxury design apart and explore how you can apply these principles to your own business. You’ll learn: The essential elements that define true luxury in design. How strategic brand partnerships can expand your influence and opportunities. The mindset shifts needed to position yourself at the top of your niche. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting to carve out your space in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you elevate your business. LuAnn Nigara and Richard Anuszkiewicz’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Luxury isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "The details are what define high-end design. From materials to functionality, every element must be intentional." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "Excellence in design is about constantly pushing boundaries, staying curious, and never settling for average." – LuAnn Nigara More About Richard Anuszkiewicz Highlighted as a top industry innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News for creative talents and business acumen, Richard T. Anuszkiewicz is a recognized North American kitchen and bath design authority. A 2019 NKBA Insider, 2018 Coverings Emerging Leader, 2017 Modenus Top 10 Design Influencer and Washingtonian Style Setter, Richard graduated from Virginia Tech NKBA accredited Residential Design program and is an alumnus of the NKBA Top 30 Under 30 program in 2013. Anuszkiewicz is a respected keynote speaker presenting nationally at premier industry events including: Dwell on Design Los Angeles, Design Chicago, Wanted Design New York, DDA Toronto, KBIS Las Vegas and Orlando. Richard has been highlighted in numerous high-profile publications, such as Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, The Washington Post, The Editor At Large, Robb Report, HGTV and more. He enjoys staying up to date with trends and technologies and most recently he was abroad at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Living Kitchen in Cologne and The London Design Festival. Connect with Richard Anuszkiewicz Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join AjMadison Pro today! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Tue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career full 1069 LuAnn Nigara Today With Richard Anuszkiewicz: Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-end kitchen and bath design with the incredibly talented Richard Anuszkiewicz. As an award-winning designer and industry thought leader, Richard has built a name for himself through his innovative approach, brand collaborations, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we uncover the key ingredients that set luxury design apart and explore how you can apply these principles to your own business. You’ll learn: The essential elements that define true luxury in design. How strategic brand partnerships can expand your influence and opportunities. The mindset shifts needed to position yourself at the top of your niche. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting to carve out your space in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you elevate your business. LuAnn Nigara and Richard Anuszkiewicz’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Luxury isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "The details are what define high-end design. From materials to functionality, every element must be intentional." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "Excellence in design is about constantly pushing boundaries, staying curious, and never settling for average." – LuAnn Nigara More About Richard Anuszkiewicz Highlighted as a top industry innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News for creative talents and business acumen, Richard T. Anuszkiewicz is a recognized North American kitchen and bath design authority. A 2019 NKBA Insider, 2018 Coverings Emerging Leader, 2017 Modenus Top 10 Design Influencer and Washingtonian Style Setter, Richard graduated from Virginia Tech NKBA accredited Residential Design program and is an alumnus of the NKBA Top 30 Under 30 program in 2013. Anuszkiewicz is a respected keynote speaker presenting nationally at premier industry events including: Dwell on Design Los Angeles, Design Chicago, Wanted Design New York, DDA Toronto, KBIS Las Vegas and Orlando. Richard has been highlighted in numerous high-profile publications, such as Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, The Washington Post, The Editor At Large, Robb Report, HGTV and more. He enjoys staying up to date with trends and technologies and most recently he was abroad at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Living Kitchen in Cologne and The London Design Festival. Connect with Richard Anuszkiewicz Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join AjMadison Pro today! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Today With Richard Anuszkiewicz:

Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-end kitchen and bath design with the incredibly talented Richard Anuszkiewicz. As an award-winning designer and industry thought leader, Richard has built a name for himself through his innovative approach, brand collaborations, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

In this episode, we uncover the key ingredients that set luxury design apart and explore how you can apply these principles to your own business. You’ll learn:

  • The essential elements that define true luxury in design.
  • How strategic brand partnerships can expand your influence and opportunities.
  • The mindset shifts needed to position yourself at the top of your niche.

Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting to carve out your space in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you elevate your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Richard Anuszkiewicz’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Luxury isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience." – Richard Anuszkiewicz

"The details are what define high-end design. From materials to functionality, every element must be intentional." – Richard Anuszkiewicz

"Excellence in design is about constantly pushing boundaries, staying curious, and never settling for average." – LuAnn Nigara

More About Richard Anuszkiewicz

Highlighted as a top industry innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News for creative talents and business acumen, Richard T. Anuszkiewicz is a recognized North American kitchen and bath design authority. A 2019 NKBA Insider, 2018 Coverings Emerging Leader, 2017 Modenus Top 10 Design Influencer and Washingtonian Style Setter, Richard graduated from Virginia Tech NKBA accredited Residential Design program and is an alumnus of the NKBA Top 30 Under 30 program in 2013.

Anuszkiewicz is a respected keynote speaker presenting nationally at premier industry events including: Dwell on Design Los Angeles, Design Chicago, Wanted Design New York, DDA Toronto, KBIS Las Vegas and Orlando. Richard has been highlighted in numerous high-profile publications, such as Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, The Washington Post, The Editor At Large, Robb Report, HGTV and more. He enjoys staying up to date with trends and technologies and most recently he was abroad at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Living Kitchen in Cologne and The London Design Festival.

Connect with Richard Anuszkiewicz

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by:

Window Works

Excting Windows!

Mydoma Studio

Duke Renders

DTS

Kravet Inc

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Join AjMadison Pro today!

LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March!

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

]]> 3078 no 1068: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How "Sleeping in Your Guest Room" Can Make You RICH Today With Sandra Funk: Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the transformative power of client experience in building a thriving interior design business. Sandra shares her pivotal "dark night of the soul" moment when three clients fired her in one day, and how this crisis became the catalyst for completely reimagining her approach to client relationships. We dive into her philosophy of viewing client partnerships as "mini marriages" that require clear communication, boundaries, and emotional understanding throughout the design journey. Sandra reveals the specific strategies that have made House of Funk so successful, from surprise and delight moments to avoiding nickel-and-diming clients for small changes. As The Interior Design Standard celebrates five years and 1,000 members, Sandra also shares exciting news about evolving her coaching program into a more intentional, curated community for serious designers who want to level up their businesses. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk’s Ah-Ha Moments: “I started looking at it from the client’s point of view. How will it land for them instead of what works for me?” - Sandra Funk More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Interior Design Standard Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek How to Start an Interior Design Business Interior Design Pricing What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Other Shows: #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How "Sleeping in Your Guest Room" Can Make You RICH full 1068 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sandra Funk: Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the transformative power of client experience in building a thriving interior design business. Sandra shares her pivotal "dark night of the soul" moment when three clients fired her in one day, and how this crisis became the catalyst for completely reimagining her approach to client relationships. We dive into her philosophy of viewing client partnerships as "mini marriages" that require clear communication, boundaries, and emotional understanding throughout the design journey. Sandra reveals the specific strategies that have made House of Funk so successful, from surprise and delight moments to avoiding nickel-and-diming clients for small changes. As The Interior Design Standard celebrates five years and 1,000 members, Sandra also shares exciting news about evolving her coaching program into a more intentional, curated community for serious designers who want to level up their businesses. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk’s Ah-Ha Moments: “I started looking at it from the client’s point of view. How will it land for them instead of what works for me?” - Sandra Funk More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Interior Design Standard Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek How to Start an Interior Design Business Interior Design Pricing What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Other Shows: #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Today With Sandra Funk:

Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the transformative power of client experience in building a thriving interior design business. Sandra shares her pivotal "dark night of the soul" moment when three clients fired her in one day, and how this crisis became the catalyst for completely reimagining her approach to client relationships.

We dive into her philosophy of viewing client partnerships as "mini marriages" that require clear communication, boundaries, and emotional understanding throughout the design journey. Sandra reveals the specific strategies that have made House of Funk so successful, from surprise and delight moments to avoiding nickel-and-diming clients for small changes.

As The Interior Design Standard celebrates five years and 1,000 members, Sandra also shares exciting news about evolving her coaching program into a more intentional, curated community for serious designers who want to level up their businesses.

LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“I started looking at it from the client’s point of view. How will it land for them instead of what works for me?” - Sandra Funk

More About Sandra Funk

Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Interior Design Standard

Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek

How to Start an Interior Design Business

Interior Design Pricing

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Other Shows:

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

#1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

]]> 3394 no 1067: Run Your Race: Ashley Ross, Muse Noir Interiors Today With Ashley Ross: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision. You’ll learn how to: Build a business with confidence, embracing your unique journey. Focus on the importance of relationships and trust in growing a business. Take bold, aligned risks to create meaningful growth and success. Whether you're a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross “You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara “Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross “Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross More About Ashley Ross Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard. Connect with Ashley Ross Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire Tue, 04 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Run Your Race: Ashley Ross, Muse Noir Interiors full 1067 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ashley Ross: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision. You’ll learn how to: Build a business with confidence, embracing your unique journey. Focus on the importance of relationships and trust in growing a business. Take bold, aligned risks to create meaningful growth and success. Whether you're a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross “You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara “Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross “Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross More About Ashley Ross Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard. Connect with Ashley Ross Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire Today With Ashley Ross:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Build a business with confidence, embracing your unique journey.
  • Focus on the importance of relationships and trust in growing a business.
  • Take bold, aligned risks to create meaningful growth and success.

Whether you're a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential.

LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross

“You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara

“Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross

“Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross

More About Ashley Ross

Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard.

Connect with Ashley Ross

Website

Instagram

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by:

Window Works

Excting Windows!

Mydoma Studio

Duke Renders

DTS

Kravet Inc

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March!

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire

]]> 5603 no 1066: On Air Strategy Session: Abby Fitzgerald: Planning Your Design Business for Year-Round Success Today With Abby Fitzgerald: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today's on-air coaching session, I'm helping my guest, Abby Fitzgerald of Fitz Haus Interior Design, master the seasonal ebbs and flows of her business–a challenge that every designer faces but few plan for effectively. Today, we're diving deep into creating a strategic roadmap for her year, tackling everything from revenue planning across quarters to building those crucial financial reserves. After years of managing WindowWorks through seasonal cycles, I'm sharing exactly how to prepare for slower months while maximizing the busy ones. If you've ever worried about those predictable slow seasons or wondered how to structure your year for consistent success, this episode is your blueprint for action. LuAnn Nigara and Abby Fitzgerald’s Ah-Ha Moments: "The difference between success and failure with a proven idea isn't about being first - it's about being the one who actually takes action. Success goes to the person who hears the idea and does something with it." - LuAnn Nigara "In business, don't waste time deciding what others are doing. Stay in your lane, build your business with respect, maintain the right cadence, and operate from a genuine place. Don't be a pain in the butt - just do your work authentically." - LuAnn Nigara More About Abby Fitzgerald Fitz Haus is a full-service interior design studio dedicated to bringing beauty, style, and functionality into your home serving clients in Central Pennsylvania. Fitz Haus Interior Design was founded by me, Abby Fitzgerald, with the intention of creating beautiful spaces while providing a first-class customer experience. I have always had a love for design and had the opportunity to design and build my family home, which sparked my creativity and allowed me to showcase my design skills. I have a unique background in marketing, sales and public relations. I spent years in the corporate world before taking the leap to open my own business and pursue my true passion. My husband Kerry and I reside in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania with our three children Ryann, Liam and Ava Grae. When we're not travelling or running to and from soccer games we love spending time at home together. Connect with Abby Fitzgerald Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit - June 23rd and 24th! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Other Shows: AWDB #453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Fri, 28 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Session: Abby Fitzgerald: Planning Your Design Business for Year-Round Success full 1066 LuAnn Nigara Today With Abby Fitzgerald: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today's on-air coaching session, I'm helping my guest, Abby Fitzgerald of Fitz Haus Interior Design, master the seasonal ebbs and flows of her business–a challenge that every designer faces but few plan for effectively. Today, we're diving deep into creating a strategic roadmap for her year, tackling everything from revenue planning across quarters to building those crucial financial reserves. After years of managing WindowWorks through seasonal cycles, I'm sharing exactly how to prepare for slower months while maximizing the busy ones. If you've ever worried about those predictable slow seasons or wondered how to structure your year for consistent success, this episode is your blueprint for action. LuAnn Nigara and Abby Fitzgerald’s Ah-Ha Moments: "The difference between success and failure with a proven idea isn't about being first - it's about being the one who actually takes action. Success goes to the person who hears the idea and does something with it." - LuAnn Nigara "In business, don't waste time deciding what others are doing. Stay in your lane, build your business with respect, maintain the right cadence, and operate from a genuine place. Don't be a pain in the butt - just do your work authentically." - LuAnn Nigara More About Abby Fitzgerald Fitz Haus is a full-service interior design studio dedicated to bringing beauty, style, and functionality into your home serving clients in Central Pennsylvania. Fitz Haus Interior Design was founded by me, Abby Fitzgerald, with the intention of creating beautiful spaces while providing a first-class customer experience. I have always had a love for design and had the opportunity to design and build my family home, which sparked my creativity and allowed me to showcase my design skills. I have a unique background in marketing, sales and public relations. I spent years in the corporate world before taking the leap to open my own business and pursue my true passion. My husband Kerry and I reside in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania with our three children Ryann, Liam and Ava Grae. When we're not travelling or running to and from soccer games we love spending time at home together. Connect with Abby Fitzgerald Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit - June 23rd and 24th! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Other Shows: AWDB #453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Today With Abby Fitzgerald:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today's on-air coaching session, I'm helping my guest, Abby Fitzgerald of Fitz Haus Interior Design, master the seasonal ebbs and flows of her business–a challenge that every designer faces but few plan for effectively.

Today, we're diving deep into creating a strategic roadmap for her year, tackling everything from revenue planning across quarters to building those crucial financial reserves. After years of managing WindowWorks through seasonal cycles, I'm sharing exactly how to prepare for slower months while maximizing the busy ones.

If you've ever worried about those predictable slow seasons or wondered how to structure your year for consistent success, this episode is your blueprint for action.

LuAnn Nigara and Abby Fitzgerald’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"The difference between success and failure with a proven idea isn't about being first - it's about being the one who actually takes action. Success goes to the person who hears the idea and does something with it." - LuAnn Nigara

"In business, don't waste time deciding what others are doing. Stay in your lane, build your business with respect, maintain the right cadence, and operate from a genuine place. Don't be a pain in the butt - just do your work authentically." - LuAnn Nigara

More About Abby Fitzgerald

Fitz Haus is a full-service interior design studio dedicated to bringing beauty, style, and functionality into your home serving clients in Central Pennsylvania.

Fitz Haus Interior Design was founded by me, Abby Fitzgerald, with the intention of creating beautiful spaces while providing a first-class customer experience. I have always had a love for design and had the opportunity to design and build my family home, which sparked my creativity and allowed me to showcase my design skills. I have a unique background in marketing, sales and public relations. I spent years in the corporate world before taking the leap to open my own business and pursue my true passion.

My husband Kerry and I reside in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania with our three children Ryann, Liam and Ava Grae. When we're not travelling or running to and from soccer games we love spending time at home together.

Connect with Abby Fitzgerald

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit - June 23rd and 24th!

LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March!

Other Shows:

AWDB #453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy

AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

]]> 4214 no 1065: Eryn Oruncak: Harnessing Neuroaesthetics: Understanding the Power of Space Today With Eryn Oruncak: Meet Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art. As one of the first designers to achieve SIDC certification in neuroaesthetics, Eryn is leading the way in showing how this cutting-edge science can transform both our industry and our clients' lives. In this episode, Eryn breaks down how neuroaesthetics - the science of how our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system - can help designers articulate their value and create more impactful spaces. She shares powerful insights about how our brains process environments, why custom pieces matter on a neurological level, and how understanding these principles can help you win client trust and defend your design decisions. LuAnn Nigara and Eryn Oruncak’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Neuroaesthetics is the way our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system." - Eryn  "Neuroesthetics marries your environment to your person." - Eryn “Lighting is a huge element in a room. Light is life…Light makes you pay attention.” - Eryn "You don't have to convince 10 people of this. You don't even have to convince anybody. You just have to let the people know who are already thinking this way, already open to it, that you're the answer." - LuAnn More About Eryn Oruncak Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art, is known for her presentation of fine art paintings and evocative spaces. Eryn believes that the home is the foundation for your life, your work, and your family. One of the first in the design industry to achieve the SIDC Certification, Oruncak applies neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles to her well-crafted rooms and original artwork. The customized residences and offices she designs for her clients result in their enhanced performance and optimized health. As a go-to expert, Oruncak is a global speaker on the subject of neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect our brain and nervous system, and is an interior design advisor to trade associations on this relatively new discipline. Her work and expertise have been featured in several publications and media outlets around the world. Connect with Eryn Oruncak Website Instagram LinkedIn Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Free Zoom Annual Conference Preview - February 27th! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition WTFP #260: Disruptor Alert: Life Was Never Meant to Be A Struggle – The Role Window Treatments Play in Our Unconscious Minds Tue, 25 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Eryn Oruncak: Harnessing Neuroaesthetics: Understanding the Power of Space full 1065 LuAnn Nigara Today With Eryn Oruncak: Meet Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art. As one of the first designers to achieve SIDC certification in neuroaesthetics, Eryn is leading the way in showing how this cutting-edge science can transform both our industry and our clients' lives. In this episode, Eryn breaks down how neuroaesthetics - the science of how our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system - can help designers articulate their value and create more impactful spaces. She shares powerful insights about how our brains process environments, why custom pieces matter on a neurological level, and how understanding these principles can help you win client trust and defend your design decisions. LuAnn Nigara and Eryn Oruncak’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Neuroaesthetics is the way our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system." - Eryn  "Neuroesthetics marries your environment to your person." - Eryn “Lighting is a huge element in a room. Light is life…Light makes you pay attention.” - Eryn "You don't have to convince 10 people of this. You don't even have to convince anybody. You just have to let the people know who are already thinking this way, already open to it, that you're the answer." - LuAnn More About Eryn Oruncak Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art, is known for her presentation of fine art paintings and evocative spaces. Eryn believes that the home is the foundation for your life, your work, and your family. One of the first in the design industry to achieve the SIDC Certification, Oruncak applies neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles to her well-crafted rooms and original artwork. The customized residences and offices she designs for her clients result in their enhanced performance and optimized health. As a go-to expert, Oruncak is a global speaker on the subject of neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect our brain and nervous system, and is an interior design advisor to trade associations on this relatively new discipline. Her work and expertise have been featured in several publications and media outlets around the world. Connect with Eryn Oruncak Website Instagram LinkedIn Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Free Zoom Annual Conference Preview - February 27th! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition WTFP #260: Disruptor Alert: Life Was Never Meant to Be A Struggle – The Role Window Treatments Play in Our Unconscious Minds Today With Eryn Oruncak:

Meet Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art. As one of the first designers to achieve SIDC certification in neuroaesthetics, Eryn is leading the way in showing how this cutting-edge science can transform both our industry and our clients' lives.

In this episode, Eryn breaks down how neuroaesthetics - the science of how our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system - can help designers articulate their value and create more impactful spaces. She shares powerful insights about how our brains process environments, why custom pieces matter on a neurological level, and how understanding these principles can help you win client trust and defend your design decisions.

LuAnn Nigara and Eryn Oruncak’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Neuroaesthetics is the way our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system." - Eryn 

"Neuroesthetics marries your environment to your person." - Eryn

“Lighting is a huge element in a room. Light is life…Light makes you pay attention.” - Eryn

"You don't have to convince 10 people of this. You don't even have to convince anybody. You just have to let the people know who are already thinking this way, already open to it, that you're the answer." - LuAnn

More About Eryn Oruncak

Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art, is known for her presentation of fine art paintings and evocative spaces. Eryn believes that the home is the foundation for your life, your work, and your family. One of the first in the design industry to achieve the SIDC Certification, Oruncak applies neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles to her well-crafted rooms and original artwork.

The customized residences and offices she designs for her clients result in their enhanced performance and optimized health. As a go-to expert, Oruncak is a global speaker on the subject of neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect our brain and nervous system, and is an interior design advisor to trade associations on this relatively new discipline. Her work and expertise have been featured in several publications and media outlets around the world.

Connect with Eryn Oruncak

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March!

Free Zoom Annual Conference Preview - February 27th!

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition

WTFP #260: Disruptor Alert: Life Was Never Meant to Be A Struggle – The Role Window Treatments Play in Our Unconscious Minds

]]> 4453 no 1064: Anna Nelson: Stop Working Against Yourself: Design a Business That Aligns with Your Strengths Today With Anna Nelson: Today I'm joined by Anna Nelson, a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach who helps entrepreneurs unlock and unleash their hidden superpowers. Through her diverse background as a marketer, saleswoman, project manager, and business owner, Anna discovered a fundamental truth: success and happiness come from building your business around your authentic strengths. Now she dedicates herself to helping others do the same. In this illuminating discussion, I get my own CliftonStrengths assessment analyzed by Anna as she breaks down how understanding your natural talents can transform client selection, team building, and business operations. Having worked with many interior designers from our community, Anna brings unique insights into how you can leverage your strengths to create a more profitable, enjoyable business. LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Don't ever say yes to being on a panel that you don't know your stuff with that thing, because it's just not necessary. You don't serve yourself." - LuAnn "The more confident people doing the things that they are extremely good at, we need that. This world is so hard right now and we need people who are really confident, really good at what they do and who can go out and make a difference in someone's life." - Anna "If you can do your life's work living in your strengths, I mean, that is the home run, right? That is the home run." - LuAnn More About Anna Nelson Anna Nelson is a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach, who works with entrepreneurs, executives, working professionals, to unlock and unleash their hidden strengths. But that’s not where she started—not even close. She’s been a marketer, a saleswoman, a project manager, and an MBA student. She’s owned multiple businesses, including a boutique handmade undergarment service. (Yes, really. And she can still whip up one heck of a custom bra.) But one day, she realized a hard truth: If you don’t build your career, business, and life around your authentic, natural strengths, there will always be a ceiling on your success…and your happiness. And her natural strength? It's helping other people find theirs, so they can confidently move forward in any area of life. She works with her clients to identify and unleash the superpowers that they didn’t even know they had so they find the confidence, clarity, and affirmation they need to take that next big step forward in life—whatever it may be. Connect with Anna Nelson Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team Fri, 21 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Anna Nelson: Stop Working Against Yourself: Design a Business That Aligns with Your Strengths full 1064 LuAnn Nigara Today With Anna Nelson: Today I'm joined by Anna Nelson, a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach who helps entrepreneurs unlock and unleash their hidden superpowers. Through her diverse background as a marketer, saleswoman, project manager, and business owner, Anna discovered a fundamental truth: success and happiness come from building your business around your authentic strengths. Now she dedicates herself to helping others do the same. In this illuminating discussion, I get my own CliftonStrengths assessment analyzed by Anna as she breaks down how understanding your natural talents can transform client selection, team building, and business operations. Having worked with many interior designers from our community, Anna brings unique insights into how you can leverage your strengths to create a more profitable, enjoyable business. LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Don't ever say yes to being on a panel that you don't know your stuff with that thing, because it's just not necessary. You don't serve yourself." - LuAnn "The more confident people doing the things that they are extremely good at, we need that. This world is so hard right now and we need people who are really confident, really good at what they do and who can go out and make a difference in someone's life." - Anna "If you can do your life's work living in your strengths, I mean, that is the home run, right? That is the home run." - LuAnn More About Anna Nelson Anna Nelson is a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach, who works with entrepreneurs, executives, working professionals, to unlock and unleash their hidden strengths. But that’s not where she started—not even close. She’s been a marketer, a saleswoman, a project manager, and an MBA student. She’s owned multiple businesses, including a boutique handmade undergarment service. (Yes, really. And she can still whip up one heck of a custom bra.) But one day, she realized a hard truth: If you don’t build your career, business, and life around your authentic, natural strengths, there will always be a ceiling on your success…and your happiness. And her natural strength? It's helping other people find theirs, so they can confidently move forward in any area of life. She works with her clients to identify and unleash the superpowers that they didn’t even know they had so they find the confidence, clarity, and affirmation they need to take that next big step forward in life—whatever it may be. Connect with Anna Nelson Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team Today With Anna Nelson:

Today I'm joined by Anna Nelson, a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach who helps entrepreneurs unlock and unleash their hidden superpowers. Through her diverse background as a marketer, saleswoman, project manager, and business owner, Anna discovered a fundamental truth: success and happiness come from building your business around your authentic strengths. Now she dedicates herself to helping others do the same.

In this illuminating discussion, I get my own CliftonStrengths assessment analyzed by Anna as she breaks down how understanding your natural talents can transform client selection, team building, and business operations. Having worked with many interior designers from our community, Anna brings unique insights into how you can leverage your strengths to create a more profitable, enjoyable business.

LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"Don't ever say yes to being on a panel that you don't know your stuff with that thing, because it's just not necessary. You don't serve yourself." - LuAnn

"The more confident people doing the things that they are extremely good at, we need that. This world is so hard right now and we need people who are really confident, really good at what they do and who can go out and make a difference in someone's life." - Anna

"If you can do your life's work living in your strengths, I mean, that is the home run, right? That is the home run." - LuAnn

More About Anna Nelson

Anna Nelson is a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach, who works with entrepreneurs, executives, working professionals, to unlock and unleash their hidden strengths.

But that’s not where she started—not even close. She’s been a marketer, a saleswoman, a project manager, and an MBA student. She’s owned multiple businesses, including a boutique handmade undergarment service. (Yes, really. And she can still whip up one heck of a custom bra.)

But one day, she realized a hard truth: If you don’t build your career, business, and life around your authentic, natural strengths, there will always be a ceiling on your success…and your happiness.

And her natural strength? It's helping other people find theirs, so they can confidently move forward in any area of life. She works with her clients to identify and unleash the superpowers that they didn’t even know they had so they find the confidence, clarity, and affirmation they need to take that next big step forward in life—whatever it may be.

Connect with Anna Nelson

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows:

#1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire

#901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur

#892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes

#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

]]> 5192 1063: Abigail M. Horace: Overcoming Biases and Stereotypes in the Interior Design Industry Today With Abigail M. Horace: Join me this week as I sit down with Abigail M. Horace, founder of Casa Marcelo. As a Black Latina designer, Abigail found herself surprised and frustrated to repeatedly see a lack of representation in the industry, even within a diverse area like New York City. She founded her firm in part to break away from stereotypes and biases—but she also had to navigate significant challenges along the way. Tune in to hear Abigail share her story and her insights on how to thrive and build success in an industry that doesn’t always offer a level playing field. LuAnn Nigara and Abigail M. Horace’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Others need to see people like them doing these things, right? The 10th grader and the 5th grader needs to see designers of color and architects of color and gay architects and all of the things so that they go, ‘oh, there's a place for me here.’” -LuAnn “I feel like we're always silenced in being ourselves or being confident. And so that's something that I'm kind of working on right now—being more confident and being more straightforward with people.” -Abigail More About Abigail M. Horace Abigail M. Horace embarked on her Interior Design journey during her teenage years, inspired by shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology in 2010, she embarked on a distinguished 10+ year career in high-end residential design in New York City. In 2020, Abigail founded Casa Marcelo as a response to creative burnout and a lack of representation and work-life balance in the NYC Interior Design industry. As she transitioned into entrepreneurship, Abigail reignited her passion for Interior Design, infusing her work with boundless creativity and a commitment to superior customer service. Her favorite aspect of design lies in envisioning the potential of a home through meticulous sourcing, particularly at the inception of a project. Abigail draws inspiration from various sources including nature, historical architecture encountered during her travels, and her family. A dedicated wife and mother to two young sons, aged 6 and 2, she cherishes moments spent with her family, indulges in travel, relishes 'me-time', and delights in discovering new music. Connect with Abigail M. Horace Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio: get 20% off your first three months! Jessica Bantom’s book: Design for Identity Black Artisans and Designer’s Guild Lab (BADG) Cooper Hewitt Exhibition Other Shows: AWDB #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Tue, 18 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Abigail M. Horace: Overcoming Biases and Stereotypes in the Interior Design Industry full 1063 LuAnn Nigara Today With Abigail M. Horace: Join me this week as I sit down with Abigail M. Horace, founder of Casa Marcelo. As a Black Latina designer, Abigail found herself surprised and frustrated to repeatedly see a lack of representation in the industry, even within a diverse area like New York City. She founded her firm in part to break away from stereotypes and biases—but she also had to navigate significant challenges along the way. Tune in to hear Abigail share her story and her insights on how to thrive and build success in an industry that doesn’t always offer a level playing field. LuAnn Nigara and Abigail M. Horace’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Others need to see people like them doing these things, right? The 10th grader and the 5th grader needs to see designers of color and architects of color and gay architects and all of the things so that they go, ‘oh, there's a place for me here.’” -LuAnn “I feel like we're always silenced in being ourselves or being confident. And so that's something that I'm kind of working on right now—being more confident and being more straightforward with people.” -Abigail More About Abigail M. Horace Abigail M. Horace embarked on her Interior Design journey during her teenage years, inspired by shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology in 2010, she embarked on a distinguished 10+ year career in high-end residential design in New York City. In 2020, Abigail founded Casa Marcelo as a response to creative burnout and a lack of representation and work-life balance in the NYC Interior Design industry. As she transitioned into entrepreneurship, Abigail reignited her passion for Interior Design, infusing her work with boundless creativity and a commitment to superior customer service. Her favorite aspect of design lies in envisioning the potential of a home through meticulous sourcing, particularly at the inception of a project. Abigail draws inspiration from various sources including nature, historical architecture encountered during her travels, and her family. A dedicated wife and mother to two young sons, aged 6 and 2, she cherishes moments spent with her family, indulges in travel, relishes 'me-time', and delights in discovering new music. Connect with Abigail M. Horace Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio: get 20% off your first three months! Jessica Bantom’s book: Design for Identity Black Artisans and Designer’s Guild Lab (BADG) Cooper Hewitt Exhibition Other Shows: AWDB #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Today With Abigail M. Horace:

Join me this week as I sit down with Abigail M. Horace, founder of Casa Marcelo. As a Black Latina designer, Abigail found herself surprised and frustrated to repeatedly see a lack of representation in the industry, even within a diverse area like New York City. She founded her firm in part to break away from stereotypes and biases—but she also had to navigate significant challenges along the way. Tune in to hear Abigail share her story and her insights on how to thrive and build success in an industry that doesn’t always offer a level playing field.

LuAnn Nigara and Abigail M. Horace’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Others need to see people like them doing these things, right? The 10th grader and the 5th grader needs to see designers of color and architects of color and gay architects and all of the things so that they go, ‘oh, there's a place for me here.’” -LuAnn

“I feel like we're always silenced in being ourselves or being confident. And so that's something that I'm kind of working on right now—being more confident and being more straightforward with people.” -Abigail

More About Abigail M. Horace

Abigail M. Horace embarked on her Interior Design journey during her teenage years, inspired by shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology in 2010, she embarked on a distinguished 10+ year career in high-end residential design in New York City. In 2020, Abigail founded Casa Marcelo as a response to creative burnout and a lack of representation and work-life balance in the NYC Interior Design industry.

As she transitioned into entrepreneurship, Abigail reignited her passion for Interior Design, infusing her work with boundless creativity and a commitment to superior customer service. Her favorite aspect of design lies in envisioning the potential of a home through meticulous sourcing, particularly at the inception of a project.

Abigail draws inspiration from various sources including nature, historical architecture encountered during her travels, and her family. A dedicated wife and mother to two young sons, aged 6 and 2, she cherishes moments spent with her family, indulges in travel, relishes 'me-time', and delights in discovering new music.

Connect with Abigail M. Horace

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio: get 20% off your first three months!

Jessica Bantom’s book: Design for Identity

Black Artisans and Designer’s Guild Lab (BADG) Cooper Hewitt Exhibition

Other Shows:

AWDB #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

AWDB #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers

]]> 4365 no 1062: 9 Years of A Well-Designed Business®—How Vision & Bold Action Can Grow Your Business Today With LuAnn Nigara: Vision, Intuition & Taking Bold Action in Your Business. 9 years. Over 1,000 episodes. More than 9 million downloads. Today, A Well-Designed Business® celebrates a major milestone—and I could spend this episode reflecting on the journey. But if you know me, you know we’re going deeper than that. This isn’t just a celebration episode. It’s a conversation on vision, intuition, and action—the three pillars that drive every successful business. Over the years, I’ve learned that having a vision isn’t enough. You need to listen to your onside voice, make bold decisions, and—most importantly—act on them. This very podcast is proof of that. So today, I’m sharing: How A Well-Designed Business® started as a vision—and how it grew beyond my wildest dreams. The key difference between hesitation and intuition (and how to know when to act) Why some entrepreneurs stay stuck—and the mindset shift that will move you forward.  My step-by-step process on how I validate my big ideas and turn them into reality This episode is for you if: You’ve had an idea lingering in your mind, but you’re unsure if it’s the right move You struggle to trust your intuition in business decisions You’re ready to stop overthinking and start doing  It’s time to step into your next chapter. Are you ready? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Fri, 14 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 9 Years of A Well-Designed Business®—How Vision & Bold Action Can Grow Your Business full 1062 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Vision, Intuition & Taking Bold Action in Your Business. 9 years. Over 1,000 episodes. More than 9 million downloads. Today, A Well-Designed Business® celebrates a major milestone—and I could spend this episode reflecting on the journey. But if you know me, you know we’re going deeper than that. This isn’t just a celebration episode. It’s a conversation on vision, intuition, and action—the three pillars that drive every successful business. Over the years, I’ve learned that having a vision isn’t enough. You need to listen to your onside voice, make bold decisions, and—most importantly—act on them. This very podcast is proof of that. So today, I’m sharing: How A Well-Designed Business® started as a vision—and how it grew beyond my wildest dreams. The key difference between hesitation and intuition (and how to know when to act) Why some entrepreneurs stay stuck—and the mindset shift that will move you forward.  My step-by-step process on how I validate my big ideas and turn them into reality This episode is for you if: You’ve had an idea lingering in your mind, but you’re unsure if it’s the right move You struggle to trust your intuition in business decisions You’re ready to stop overthinking and start doing  It’s time to step into your next chapter. Are you ready? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Vision, Intuition & Taking Bold Action in Your Business. 9 years. Over 1,000 episodes. More than 9 million downloads.

Today, A Well-Designed Business® celebrates a major milestone—and I could spend this episode reflecting on the journey. But if you know me, you know we’re going deeper than that. This isn’t just a celebration episode. It’s a conversation on vision, intuition, and action—the three pillars that drive every successful business. Over the years, I’ve learned that having a vision isn’t enough. You need to listen to your onside voice, make bold decisions, and—most importantly—act on them. This very podcast is proof of that.

So today, I’m sharing:

  • How A Well-Designed Business® started as a vision—and how it grew beyond my wildest dreams.
  • The key difference between hesitation and intuition (and how to know when to act)
  • Why some entrepreneurs stay stuck—and the mindset shift that will move you forward. 
  • My step-by-step process on how I validate my big ideas and turn them into reality

This episode is for you if:

  • You’ve had an idea lingering in your mind, but you’re unsure if it’s the right move
  • You struggle to trust your intuition in business decisions
  • You’re ready to stop overthinking and start doing

 It’s time to step into your next chapter. Are you ready?

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows:

AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

]]> 2032 no 1061: Amhad Freeman: Beyond the Man Cave—Carving a Niche in Luxury Interiors for Single Men Today With Amhad Freeman: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m sitting down with Amhad Freeman, an incredibly talented interior designer who has built a thriving business by focusing on a very specific niche—designing for high-level single men and developers. Now, if you’re wondering how niching down that specifically can lead to success, trust me, you’re going to want to hear this conversation. Amhad shares how he discovered his niche, crafted a brand that speaks directly to his ideal clients, and structured his pricing and processes to keep his business streamlined and profitable. His approach to branding, messaging, and business operations is something we can all learn from—whether you’re working with single men, families, or another market entirely. If you’ve ever thought about narrowing your focus but weren’t sure how, or if you’re looking for ways to make your business run more smoothly, Amhad has so much wisdom to share. In this episode, we talk about: How Amhad identified and refined his niche in the interior design industry The strategies he uses to market his expertise and attract high-level clients Why a clear, upfront pricing structure is key to working with busy professionals The importance of staying on top of your business finances daily How branding and messaging can set you apart and create demand for your services This is one of those conversations that will get you thinking differently about your own business and how you show up for your ideal clients. So, hit play, take some notes, and let’s dive in! More About Amhad Freeman As a black-owned interior design firm based in Chicago and Nashville, Owner Amhad Freeman sets new standards of luxury and elegance with design packages from kitchen and bathroom design, complete home renovations, and complete new-build construction. Amhad’s style is a balanced combination of modern, contemporary and traditional elements where form follows function and where understated elegance conjures a sense of tranquility. Residential designs are entirely tailored to our client’s requirements and needs. AFI focuses on a bespoke and detailed approach aimed at creating elegant, and comfortable homes that never go out of style. Amhad Freeman Interiors believes that a project should be a direct expression of its client’s needs and identity and is passionate about developing a brief into luxury design with a gentlemen’s touch. The aim is to transform client’s homes into bold retreats that are enhanced by exceptional design. Connect with Amhad Freeman Website Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Metrique Solutions The Profit is a Choice Podcast Other Shows: AWDB 425: Misty Maxey: Niching, Coaching and Pushing Through Fear AWDB #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? AWDB #1014: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Mastery of Your Finances Tue, 11 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Amhad Freeman: Beyond the Man Cave—Carving a Niche in Luxury Interiors for Single Men full 1061 LuAnn Nigara Today With Amhad Freeman: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m sitting down with Amhad Freeman, an incredibly talented interior designer who has built a thriving business by focusing on a very specific niche—designing for high-level single men and developers. Now, if you’re wondering how niching down that specifically can lead to success, trust me, you’re going to want to hear this conversation. Amhad shares how he discovered his niche, crafted a brand that speaks directly to his ideal clients, and structured his pricing and processes to keep his business streamlined and profitable. His approach to branding, messaging, and business operations is something we can all learn from—whether you’re working with single men, families, or another market entirely. If you’ve ever thought about narrowing your focus but weren’t sure how, or if you’re looking for ways to make your business run more smoothly, Amhad has so much wisdom to share. In this episode, we talk about: How Amhad identified and refined his niche in the interior design industry The strategies he uses to market his expertise and attract high-level clients Why a clear, upfront pricing structure is key to working with busy professionals The importance of staying on top of your business finances daily How branding and messaging can set you apart and create demand for your services This is one of those conversations that will get you thinking differently about your own business and how you show up for your ideal clients. So, hit play, take some notes, and let’s dive in! More About Amhad Freeman As a black-owned interior design firm based in Chicago and Nashville, Owner Amhad Freeman sets new standards of luxury and elegance with design packages from kitchen and bathroom design, complete home renovations, and complete new-build construction. Amhad’s style is a balanced combination of modern, contemporary and traditional elements where form follows function and where understated elegance conjures a sense of tranquility. Residential designs are entirely tailored to our client’s requirements and needs. AFI focuses on a bespoke and detailed approach aimed at creating elegant, and comfortable homes that never go out of style. Amhad Freeman Interiors believes that a project should be a direct expression of its client’s needs and identity and is passionate about developing a brief into luxury design with a gentlemen’s touch. The aim is to transform client’s homes into bold retreats that are enhanced by exceptional design. Connect with Amhad Freeman Website Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Metrique Solutions The Profit is a Choice Podcast Other Shows: AWDB 425: Misty Maxey: Niching, Coaching and Pushing Through Fear AWDB #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? AWDB #1014: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Mastery of Your Finances Today With Amhad Freeman:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I’m sitting down with Amhad Freeman, an incredibly talented interior designer who has built a thriving business by focusing on a very specific niche—designing for high-level single men and developers. Now, if you’re wondering how niching down that specifically can lead to success, trust me, you’re going to want to hear this conversation.

Amhad shares how he discovered his niche, crafted a brand that speaks directly to his ideal clients, and structured his pricing and processes to keep his business streamlined and profitable. His approach to branding, messaging, and business operations is something we can all learn from—whether you’re working with single men, families, or another market entirely.

If you’ve ever thought about narrowing your focus but weren’t sure how, or if you’re looking for ways to make your business run more smoothly, Amhad has so much wisdom to share.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • How Amhad identified and refined his niche in the interior design industry
  • The strategies he uses to market his expertise and attract high-level clients
  • Why a clear, upfront pricing structure is key to working with busy professionals
  • The importance of staying on top of your business finances daily
  • How branding and messaging can set you apart and create demand for your services

This is one of those conversations that will get you thinking differently about your own business and how you show up for your ideal clients. So, hit play, take some notes, and let’s dive in!

More About Amhad Freeman

As a black-owned interior design firm based in Chicago and Nashville, Owner Amhad Freeman sets new standards of luxury and elegance with design packages from kitchen and bathroom design, complete home renovations, and complete new-build construction.

Amhad’s style is a balanced combination of modern, contemporary and traditional elements where form follows function and where understated elegance conjures a sense of tranquility. Residential designs are entirely tailored to our client’s requirements and needs. AFI focuses on a bespoke and detailed approach aimed at creating elegant, and comfortable homes that never go out of style.

Amhad Freeman Interiors believes that a project should be a direct expression of its client’s needs and identity and is passionate about developing a brief into luxury design with a gentlemen’s touch. The aim is to transform client’s homes into bold retreats that are enhanced by exceptional design.

Connect with Amhad Freeman

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Metrique Solutions

The Profit is a Choice Podcast

Other Shows:

AWDB 425: Misty Maxey: Niching, Coaching and Pushing Through Fear

AWDB #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away?

AWDB #1014: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Mastery of Your Finances

]]> 4130 no 1060: Design Trade Service: Quality Vendors, Trade Pricing and AI. Your Go to Sourcing Platform Today With Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I am excited to welcome Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points, president and marketing specialist at Design Trade Service.  Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace for designers created to streamline the sourcing process and let you efficiently shop from 80 different vendors, all in one place. They’ve vetted the products and vendors and created this marketplace, available to designers with no membership fee.  DTS has also created an AI program that can help you find exactly what you’re looking for without wasting time looking through different vendor websites and taking a look at all the available products.  Today, Greg and Jen are sharing everything about DTS, their AI, and how they can help you streamline sourcing for your clients. LuAnn Nigara, Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points’s Ah-Ha Moments: "It’s not just about putting something on a computer screen that works well. You have to understand the needs of both the buyer and the seller. That’s where our decades of experience make all the difference." – Greg "You can want all day from a vendor or a manufacturer, but when they say it can’t happen, someone with your experience knows how to ask in a way that gets a yes. That’s what makes DTS so valuable—it’s solving the pain points for both designers and manufacturers." – LuAnn Nigara “We ultimately think our AI will revolutionize how designers search products for a look for a client.” -Greg More About Design Trade Service Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace where Professional Interior Designers can instantly purchase from Furniture and Home Furnishings Manufacturers at better than typical “to-the-trade” pricing. Membership is free and we're adding hundreds of new products every day. If you are an Interior Designer we have built our business for you. We make your life easier and increase your opportunity to generate revenue. We sell to you - not your clients! If you are a Manufacturer please contact us. We are building a community of Interior Designers that in total represent over $9B in industry sales per year. We would be happy to service your Interior Designer clients at no cost to you. Connect with Design Trade Service Website Instagram Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Design Trade Service: Quality Vendors, Trade Pricing and AI. Your Go to Sourcing Platform full 1060 LuAnn Nigara Today With Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I am excited to welcome Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points, president and marketing specialist at Design Trade Service.  Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace for designers created to streamline the sourcing process and let you efficiently shop from 80 different vendors, all in one place. They’ve vetted the products and vendors and created this marketplace, available to designers with no membership fee.  DTS has also created an AI program that can help you find exactly what you’re looking for without wasting time looking through different vendor websites and taking a look at all the available products.  Today, Greg and Jen are sharing everything about DTS, their AI, and how they can help you streamline sourcing for your clients. LuAnn Nigara, Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points’s Ah-Ha Moments: "It’s not just about putting something on a computer screen that works well. You have to understand the needs of both the buyer and the seller. That’s where our decades of experience make all the difference." – Greg "You can want all day from a vendor or a manufacturer, but when they say it can’t happen, someone with your experience knows how to ask in a way that gets a yes. That’s what makes DTS so valuable—it’s solving the pain points for both designers and manufacturers." – LuAnn Nigara “We ultimately think our AI will revolutionize how designers search products for a look for a client.” -Greg More About Design Trade Service Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace where Professional Interior Designers can instantly purchase from Furniture and Home Furnishings Manufacturers at better than typical “to-the-trade” pricing. Membership is free and we're adding hundreds of new products every day. If you are an Interior Designer we have built our business for you. We make your life easier and increase your opportunity to generate revenue. We sell to you - not your clients! If you are a Manufacturer please contact us. We are building a community of Interior Designers that in total represent over $9B in industry sales per year. We would be happy to service your Interior Designer clients at no cost to you. Connect with Design Trade Service Website Instagram Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Today With Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I am excited to welcome Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points, president and marketing specialist at Design Trade Service. 

Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace for designers created to streamline the sourcing process and let you efficiently shop from 80 different vendors, all in one place. They’ve vetted the products and vendors and created this marketplace, available to designers with no membership fee. 

DTS has also created an AI program that can help you find exactly what you’re looking for without wasting time looking through different vendor websites and taking a look at all the available products. 

Today, Greg and Jen are sharing everything about DTS, their AI, and how they can help you streamline sourcing for your clients.

LuAnn Nigara, Greg Wyers and Jennifer Points’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"It’s not just about putting something on a computer screen that works well. You have to understand the needs of both the buyer and the seller. That’s where our decades of experience make all the difference." – Greg

"You can want all day from a vendor or a manufacturer, but when they say it can’t happen, someone with your experience knows how to ask in a way that gets a yes. That’s what makes DTS so valuable—it’s solving the pain points for both designers and manufacturers." – LuAnn Nigara

“We ultimately think our AI will revolutionize how designers search products for a look for a client.” -Greg

More About Design Trade Service

Design Trade Services is an exclusive online marketplace where Professional Interior Designers can instantly purchase from Furniture and Home Furnishings Manufacturers at better than typical “to-the-trade” pricing.

Membership is free and we're adding hundreds of new products every day. If you are an Interior Designer we have built our business for you. We make your life easier and increase your opportunity to generate revenue. We sell to you - not your clients!

If you are a Manufacturer please contact us. We are building a community of Interior Designers that in total represent over $9B in industry sales per year. We would be happy to service your Interior Designer clients at no cost to you.

Connect with Design Trade Service

Website

Instagram

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

]]> 3672 no 1059: Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry Today With Rachel Usher: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with an inspiring designer, entrepreneur, and community builder to talk about resilience—both in life and business: Rachel Usher. We dive into the challenges of running a design firm, navigating industry roadblocks, and the power of creating a supportive network. From building a business that can thrive beyond its founder to overcoming personal and professional setbacks, this conversation is packed with real, honest insights. If you've ever felt like you're tackling this business alone, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to. LuAnn Nigara and Rachel Usher’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I need to tell everybody that comes into the room that we can talk about the stuff that you can't find on the internet. You know, we can ask those tricky questions and we can get a direct answer from somebody that you never really would get a one-to-one audience with." – Rachel Usher "I don’t want to come and learn a half-truth. I want to learn the whole truth so I can absolutely duplicate the thing that you already know how to do." – LuAnn Nigara More About Rachel Usher Rachel Usher is founder and Creative Director of Rachel Usher Interior Design. A successful design practice that has recently celebrated 12 years in business. From her Yorkshire studio, Rachel and her team of Interior Architects have worked on multi-million pound projects from Chelsea Pied-à-terre’s to large scale Lake Houses overlooking Lake Windermere. Rachel’s projects have been featured in Living Etc, Homes & Gardens and House & Garden magazines. With a successful career as an Interior Designer under her belt, Rachel formed The Business Of Interiors, a platform that aims to inspire, educate and build a community for Interior Designers. Rachel grows this business at the same time as running her successful design studio. With an aim to build a UK design community, Rachel also launched the If These Walls Could Talk podcast. A podcast that features Interior Designer’s and industry professionals that shares personal business journeys and guidance to its engaged, global audience. Rachel’s podcast is in the top 25% of Interior Design podcasts. Connect with Rachel Usher Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design "The Business Of Interiors Community Summit" Event The Table: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 - Episode 37 Other Shows: AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers AWDB #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game AWDB #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm WTFP #255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy WTFP #253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk Tue, 04 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry full 1059 LuAnn Nigara Today With Rachel Usher: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with an inspiring designer, entrepreneur, and community builder to talk about resilience—both in life and business: Rachel Usher. We dive into the challenges of running a design firm, navigating industry roadblocks, and the power of creating a supportive network. From building a business that can thrive beyond its founder to overcoming personal and professional setbacks, this conversation is packed with real, honest insights. If you've ever felt like you're tackling this business alone, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to. LuAnn Nigara and Rachel Usher’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I need to tell everybody that comes into the room that we can talk about the stuff that you can't find on the internet. You know, we can ask those tricky questions and we can get a direct answer from somebody that you never really would get a one-to-one audience with." – Rachel Usher "I don’t want to come and learn a half-truth. I want to learn the whole truth so I can absolutely duplicate the thing that you already know how to do." – LuAnn Nigara More About Rachel Usher Rachel Usher is founder and Creative Director of Rachel Usher Interior Design. A successful design practice that has recently celebrated 12 years in business. From her Yorkshire studio, Rachel and her team of Interior Architects have worked on multi-million pound projects from Chelsea Pied-à-terre’s to large scale Lake Houses overlooking Lake Windermere. Rachel’s projects have been featured in Living Etc, Homes & Gardens and House & Garden magazines. With a successful career as an Interior Designer under her belt, Rachel formed The Business Of Interiors, a platform that aims to inspire, educate and build a community for Interior Designers. Rachel grows this business at the same time as running her successful design studio. With an aim to build a UK design community, Rachel also launched the If These Walls Could Talk podcast. A podcast that features Interior Designer’s and industry professionals that shares personal business journeys and guidance to its engaged, global audience. Rachel’s podcast is in the top 25% of Interior Design podcasts. Connect with Rachel Usher Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design "The Business Of Interiors Community Summit" Event The Table: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 - Episode 37 Other Shows: AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers AWDB #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game AWDB #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm WTFP #255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy WTFP #253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk Today With Rachel Usher:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with an inspiring designer, entrepreneur, and community builder to talk about resilience—both in life and business: Rachel Usher. We dive into the challenges of running a design firm, navigating industry roadblocks, and the power of creating a supportive network. From building a business that can thrive beyond its founder to overcoming personal and professional setbacks, this conversation is packed with real, honest insights. If you've ever felt like you're tackling this business alone, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to.

LuAnn Nigara and Rachel Usher’s Ah-Ha Moments:

"I need to tell everybody that comes into the room that we can talk about the stuff that you can't find on the internet. You know, we can ask those tricky questions and we can get a direct answer from somebody that you never really would get a one-to-one audience with." – Rachel Usher

"I don’t want to come and learn a half-truth. I want to learn the whole truth so I can absolutely duplicate the thing that you already know how to do." – LuAnn Nigara

More About Rachel Usher

Rachel Usher is founder and Creative Director of Rachel Usher Interior Design. A successful design practice that has recently celebrated 12 years in business. From her Yorkshire studio, Rachel and her team of Interior Architects have worked on multi-million pound projects from Chelsea Pied-à-terre’s to large scale Lake Houses overlooking Lake Windermere. Rachel’s projects have been featured in Living Etc, Homes & Gardens and House & Garden magazines.

With a successful career as an Interior Designer under her belt, Rachel formed The Business Of Interiors, a platform that aims to inspire, educate and build a community for Interior Designers. Rachel grows this business at the same time as running her successful design studio.

With an aim to build a UK design community, Rachel also launched the If These Walls Could Talk podcast. A podcast that features Interior Designer’s and industry professionals that shares personal business journeys and guidance to its engaged, global audience. Rachel’s podcast is in the top 25% of Interior Design podcasts.

Connect with Rachel Usher

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

"The Business Of Interiors Community Summit" Event

The Table: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 - Episode 37

Other Shows:

AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur

AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

AWDB #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

AWDB #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

WTFP #255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy

WTFP #253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk

]]> 4776 1058: What Would Lu Do?: Why the World Still Needs Interior Designers; A Pep Talk for You Today With LuAnn Nigara: As an interior designer, at some point, someone—whether it’s a potential client, a trade partner, or even a stranger at a party—is going to question the value of what you do. They’ll say, “With the internet and so many resources, why does anyone need a designer?” And when that moment comes, are you ready to answer with confidence? In this Power Talk Friday episode, I break down exactly why the world still needs you—why your expertise goes far beyond picking out furniture, why your role is critical in creating functional, meaningful spaces, and how to educate, not defend, your value. This is the pep talk you need when doubt creeps in—whether it’s coming from someone else or from inside your own head. Because the truth is, no amount of Pinterest boards or online shopping carts will ever replace what you bring to the table. Listen in, get clear on your worth, and learn how to articulate it like a pro. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University! LuAnn’s Chairman of the Board Fri, 31 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Why the World Still Needs Interior Designers; A Pep Talk for You full 1058 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: As an interior designer, at some point, someone—whether it’s a potential client, a trade partner, or even a stranger at a party—is going to question the value of what you do. They’ll say, “With the internet and so many resources, why does anyone need a designer?” And when that moment comes, are you ready to answer with confidence? In this Power Talk Friday episode, I break down exactly why the world still needs you—why your expertise goes far beyond picking out furniture, why your role is critical in creating functional, meaningful spaces, and how to educate, not defend, your value. This is the pep talk you need when doubt creeps in—whether it’s coming from someone else or from inside your own head. Because the truth is, no amount of Pinterest boards or online shopping carts will ever replace what you bring to the table. Listen in, get clear on your worth, and learn how to articulate it like a pro. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University! LuAnn’s Chairman of the Board Today With LuAnn Nigara:

As an interior designer, at some point, someone—whether it’s a potential client, a trade partner, or even a stranger at a party—is going to question the value of what you do. They’ll say, “With the internet and so many resources, why does anyone need a designer?”

And when that moment comes, are you ready to answer with confidence?

In this Power Talk Friday episode, I break down exactly why the world still needs you—why your expertise goes far beyond picking out furniture, why your role is critical in creating functional, meaningful spaces, and how to educate, not defend, your value.

This is the pep talk you need when doubt creeps in—whether it’s coming from someone else or from inside your own head. Because the truth is, no amount of Pinterest boards or online shopping carts will ever replace what you bring to the table.

Listen in, get clear on your worth, and learn how to articulate it like a pro.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University!

LuAnn’s Chairman of the Board

]]> 799 no 1057: What Would Lu Do?: Designing Your Legacy: How to Create a Business That Stands the Test of Time Today With LuAnn Nigara: Your business is more than just a source of income—it’s your story, your impact, your legacy. In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m helping you design a business that leaves a lasting impression. Together, we’ll explore: What legacy truly means and why it matters. How to align your mission, core values, and daily actions with your long-term vision. The building blocks of a business legacy: exceptional service, meaningful relationships, and leadership that inspires. Actionable steps you can take today to start shaping your legacy. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next chapter, this episode is your guide to creating a business that’s remembered for all the right reasons. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University! Tue, 28 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Designing Your Legacy: How to Create a Business That Stands the Test of Time full 1057 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Your business is more than just a source of income—it’s your story, your impact, your legacy. In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m helping you design a business that leaves a lasting impression. Together, we’ll explore: What legacy truly means and why it matters. How to align your mission, core values, and daily actions with your long-term vision. The building blocks of a business legacy: exceptional service, meaningful relationships, and leadership that inspires. Actionable steps you can take today to start shaping your legacy. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next chapter, this episode is your guide to creating a business that’s remembered for all the right reasons. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University! Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Your business is more than just a source of income—it’s your story, your impact, your legacy. In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m helping you design a business that leaves a lasting impression.

Together, we’ll explore:

  • What legacy truly means and why it matters.
  • How to align your mission, core values, and daily actions with your long-term vision.
  • The building blocks of a business legacy: exceptional service, meaningful relationships, and leadership that inspires.
  • Actionable steps you can take today to start shaping your legacy.

Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next chapter, this episode is your guide to creating a business that’s remembered for all the right reasons.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University!

]]> 1980 no 1056: Power Talk Friday: Ashley La Fond: How Working With a Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Client Experience Today With Ashley La Fond: Are you delivering beautiful spaces that truly work for your clients’ lifestyles? In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Ashley La Fond, founder of Of Space & Mind, to explore how professional organizers can revolutionize your design process. We dive into the ways Ashley collaborates with designers—like helping clear spaces before a project begins, ensuring every drawer and cabinet works for a client’s unique needs, and even creating a seamless move-in experience. From maximizing function to complementing beauty, Ashley shares how her expertise can enhance your designs and create a truly elevated client experience. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley La Fond’s Ah-Ha Moments: “When beauty and function come together, that’s when clients are not just satisfied—they’re wowed.” – LuAnn Nigara “Pre-planning and clearing a space before a project doesn’t just make the renovation smoother—it helps uncover what truly matters to the client, so the design can reflect their needs.” – Ashley La Fond “Designing a space is about more than making it look good—it’s about creating flow and functionality that fit seamlessly into a client’s life.” – Ashley La Fond “A truly elevated client experience means they can walk into their newly designed home and start living without the overwhelm of figuring out where everything goes.” – Ashley La Fond More About Ashley La Fond Of Space & Mind is a home organization company founded by Ashley La Fond in 2018. Ashley has worked on more than 300 homes and businesses to design and optimize spaces including kitchens, closets, garages, basements, corporate offices, home offices and much more. She believes that a space designed with intention makes room for creativity, productivity, relaxation and wellness. She has worked with many notable clients including: Hannah Bronfman, Brendan Fallis, Mike & Lauren Sorrentino, Rachel Mansfield and Cameron Oaks Rogers. Ashley is a mom of two and currently lives in New Jersey with her family. Connect with Ashley La Fond Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Fri, 24 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ashley La Fond: How Working With a Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Client Experience full 1056 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ashley La Fond: Are you delivering beautiful spaces that truly work for your clients’ lifestyles? In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Ashley La Fond, founder of Of Space & Mind, to explore how professional organizers can revolutionize your design process. We dive into the ways Ashley collaborates with designers—like helping clear spaces before a project begins, ensuring every drawer and cabinet works for a client’s unique needs, and even creating a seamless move-in experience. From maximizing function to complementing beauty, Ashley shares how her expertise can enhance your designs and create a truly elevated client experience. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley La Fond’s Ah-Ha Moments: “When beauty and function come together, that’s when clients are not just satisfied—they’re wowed.” – LuAnn Nigara “Pre-planning and clearing a space before a project doesn’t just make the renovation smoother—it helps uncover what truly matters to the client, so the design can reflect their needs.” – Ashley La Fond “Designing a space is about more than making it look good—it’s about creating flow and functionality that fit seamlessly into a client’s life.” – Ashley La Fond “A truly elevated client experience means they can walk into their newly designed home and start living without the overwhelm of figuring out where everything goes.” – Ashley La Fond More About Ashley La Fond Of Space & Mind is a home organization company founded by Ashley La Fond in 2018. Ashley has worked on more than 300 homes and businesses to design and optimize spaces including kitchens, closets, garages, basements, corporate offices, home offices and much more. She believes that a space designed with intention makes room for creativity, productivity, relaxation and wellness. She has worked with many notable clients including: Hannah Bronfman, Brendan Fallis, Mike & Lauren Sorrentino, Rachel Mansfield and Cameron Oaks Rogers. Ashley is a mom of two and currently lives in New Jersey with her family. Connect with Ashley La Fond Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Today With Ashley La Fond:

Are you delivering beautiful spaces that truly work for your clients’ lifestyles? In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Ashley La Fond, founder of Of Space & Mind, to explore how professional organizers can revolutionize your design process.

We dive into the ways Ashley collaborates with designers—like helping clear spaces before a project begins, ensuring every drawer and cabinet works for a client’s unique needs, and even creating a seamless move-in experience. From maximizing function to complementing beauty, Ashley shares how her expertise can enhance your designs and create a truly elevated client experience.

LuAnn Nigara and Ashley La Fond’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“When beauty and function come together, that’s when clients are not just satisfied—they’re wowed.” – LuAnn Nigara

“Pre-planning and clearing a space before a project doesn’t just make the renovation smoother—it helps uncover what truly matters to the client, so the design can reflect their needs.” – Ashley La Fond

“Designing a space is about more than making it look good—it’s about creating flow and functionality that fit seamlessly into a client’s life.” – Ashley La Fond

“A truly elevated client experience means they can walk into their newly designed home and start living without the overwhelm of figuring out where everything goes.” – Ashley La Fond

More About Ashley La Fond

Of Space & Mind is a home organization company founded by Ashley La Fond in 2018. Ashley has worked on more than 300 homes and businesses to design and optimize spaces including kitchens, closets, garages, basements, corporate offices, home offices and much more. She believes that a space designed with intention makes room for creativity, productivity, relaxation and wellness.

She has worked with many notable clients including: Hannah Bronfman, Brendan Fallis, Mike & Lauren Sorrentino, Rachel Mansfield and Cameron Oaks Rogers. Ashley is a mom of two and currently lives in New Jersey with her family.

Connect with Ashley La Fond

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

]]> 3382 no 1055: Naïka André: Do It Scared - A Designer's Journey Through Her First Show House Today With Naïka André: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm talking about show houses with designer Naika Andre, who just completed her first one at the Kingston Design Show House. For years at WindowWorks, I've seen what makes show houses succeed or struggle, and that's why I love Naika's transparency about the entire process. She shares everything—from the real costs and timeline challenges to how she created that stunning red bathroom that had everyone talking. Whether you're thinking about participating in a show house or working on being more authentic in your design business, Naika's journey and her powerful advice to "do it scared" is exactly what you need to hear. Today, she's here to tell us how she did it! LuAnn Nigara and Naïka André’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The power of community is huge. You never know what you can get until you ask. Some people will say no, but many will say yes,”- Naïka André More About Naïka André Principal designer, and CEO of NJA Interiors, Naïka André is an antiques curator, and a world traveler. With a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, she embarked on a short-term position with a design firm in India, where she immersed herself in diverse cultures and architecture. This experience laid the foundation for her unique aesthetic. With over a decade of experience working with luxury interior design firms in Connecticut, she launched her design studio. Today, under the NJA Interiors moniker, Naïka approaches every client’s project as an opportunity to discover (and tell) their unique story. She works to form meaningful connections with her clients, knowing that understanding them and how they live deeply is the key to achieving spaces that feel personal and authentic to them and that function ideally for how they live. With over 15 years of design experience, Naïka André’s colorful, edgy designs reflect her global perspective and her vibrant Haitian heritage. Based in Connecticut, Naïka works with clients throughout the US. Her style-forward work and creative design solutions have been featured in Business of Home, Domino, Good Housekeeping, The Strategist, and many more. Connect with Naïka André Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Naïka André: Do It Scared - A Designer's Journey Through Her First Show House full 1055 LuAnn Nigara Today With Naïka André: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm talking about show houses with designer Naika Andre, who just completed her first one at the Kingston Design Show House. For years at WindowWorks, I've seen what makes show houses succeed or struggle, and that's why I love Naika's transparency about the entire process. She shares everything—from the real costs and timeline challenges to how she created that stunning red bathroom that had everyone talking. Whether you're thinking about participating in a show house or working on being more authentic in your design business, Naika's journey and her powerful advice to "do it scared" is exactly what you need to hear. Today, she's here to tell us how she did it! LuAnn Nigara and Naïka André’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The power of community is huge. You never know what you can get until you ask. Some people will say no, but many will say yes,”- Naïka André More About Naïka André Principal designer, and CEO of NJA Interiors, Naïka André is an antiques curator, and a world traveler. With a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, she embarked on a short-term position with a design firm in India, where she immersed herself in diverse cultures and architecture. This experience laid the foundation for her unique aesthetic. With over a decade of experience working with luxury interior design firms in Connecticut, she launched her design studio. Today, under the NJA Interiors moniker, Naïka approaches every client’s project as an opportunity to discover (and tell) their unique story. She works to form meaningful connections with her clients, knowing that understanding them and how they live deeply is the key to achieving spaces that feel personal and authentic to them and that function ideally for how they live. With over 15 years of design experience, Naïka André’s colorful, edgy designs reflect her global perspective and her vibrant Haitian heritage. Based in Connecticut, Naïka works with clients throughout the US. Her style-forward work and creative design solutions have been featured in Business of Home, Domino, Good Housekeeping, The Strategist, and many more. Connect with Naïka André Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Today With Naïka André:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm talking about show houses with designer Naika Andre, who just completed her first one at the Kingston Design Show House. For years at WindowWorks, I've seen what makes show houses succeed or struggle, and that's why I love Naika's transparency about the entire process. She shares everything—from the real costs and timeline challenges to how she created that stunning red bathroom that had everyone talking. Whether you're thinking about participating in a show house or working on being more authentic in your design business, Naika's journey and her powerful advice to "do it scared" is exactly what you need to hear. Today, she's here to tell us how she did it!

LuAnn Nigara and Naïka André’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“The power of community is huge. You never know what you can get until you ask. Some people will say no, but many will say yes,”- Naïka André

More About Naïka André

Principal designer, and CEO of NJA Interiors, Naïka André is an antiques curator, and a world traveler. With a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, she embarked on a short-term position with a design firm in India, where she immersed herself in diverse cultures and architecture. This experience laid the foundation for her unique aesthetic. With over a decade of experience working with luxury interior design firms in Connecticut, she launched her design studio.

Today, under the NJA Interiors moniker, Naïka approaches every client’s project as an opportunity to discover (and tell) their unique story. She works to form meaningful connections with her clients, knowing that understanding them and how they live deeply is the key to achieving spaces that feel personal and authentic to them and that function ideally for how they live.

With over 15 years of design experience, Naïka André’s colorful, edgy designs reflect her global perspective and her vibrant Haitian heritage. Based in Connecticut, Naïka works with clients throughout the US. Her style-forward work and creative design solutions have been featured in Business of Home, Domino, Good Housekeeping, The Strategist, and many more.

Connect with Naïka André

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st!

]]> 3506 no 1054: Power Talk Friday: Hannah Bowyer: Maximizing Efficiency: Streamlining Interior Design with Virtual Assistance Today With Hannah Bowyer: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I’m excited to dive into the world of virtual assistance and automation in interior design with the amazing Hannah Bowyer. We’re exploring how these powerful tools can help designers maximize their efficiency and elevate their client experience. I’ll share insights on leveraging a CRM to streamline your workflow and the importance of outsourcing tasks to free up your time, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Join me as we uncover the keys to success in today’s fast-paced design landscape! LuAnn Nigara and Hannah Bowyer’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Efficiency creates dollar bills.” - LuAnn More About Hannah Bowyer After spending 10 years in the service industry, Hannah decided to step out on a limb and create a business that would support the life she wanted. Initially she began in the general VA space, editing blogs and doing miscellaneous tasks. She quickly realized that interior design was the niche she wanted to be in. With a keen sense for problem solving, she got to work becoming the VDA designers needed. She now owns Hannah Bowyer and Company, a Virtual Design Assistance Agency that supports designers in various aspects of their business; from drawings and renderings, to social media and copywriting, to systems and processes. Over the years she has learned to delegate what doesn’t energize her to make space for what does. Her favorite thing is helping designers comb through the messy backend of their businesses to create clarity and direction. Hannah currently lives abroad with her husband and two children; embracing the freedom and life she’s created. Connect with Hannah Bowyer Website Instagram Resources What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Other Shows: #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates #149: Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset Fri, 17 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Hannah Bowyer: Maximizing Efficiency: Streamlining Interior Design with Virtual Assistance full 1054 LuAnn Nigara Today With Hannah Bowyer: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I’m excited to dive into the world of virtual assistance and automation in interior design with the amazing Hannah Bowyer. We’re exploring how these powerful tools can help designers maximize their efficiency and elevate their client experience. I’ll share insights on leveraging a CRM to streamline your workflow and the importance of outsourcing tasks to free up your time, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Join me as we uncover the keys to success in today’s fast-paced design landscape! LuAnn Nigara and Hannah Bowyer’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Efficiency creates dollar bills.” - LuAnn More About Hannah Bowyer After spending 10 years in the service industry, Hannah decided to step out on a limb and create a business that would support the life she wanted. Initially she began in the general VA space, editing blogs and doing miscellaneous tasks. She quickly realized that interior design was the niche she wanted to be in. With a keen sense for problem solving, she got to work becoming the VDA designers needed. She now owns Hannah Bowyer and Company, a Virtual Design Assistance Agency that supports designers in various aspects of their business; from drawings and renderings, to social media and copywriting, to systems and processes. Over the years she has learned to delegate what doesn’t energize her to make space for what does. Her favorite thing is helping designers comb through the messy backend of their businesses to create clarity and direction. Hannah currently lives abroad with her husband and two children; embracing the freedom and life she’s created. Connect with Hannah Bowyer Website Instagram Resources What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Other Shows: #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates #149: Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset Today With Hannah Bowyer:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I’m excited to dive into the world of virtual assistance and automation in interior design with the amazing Hannah Bowyer. We’re exploring how these powerful tools can help designers maximize their efficiency and elevate their client experience. I’ll share insights on leveraging a CRM to streamline your workflow and the importance of outsourcing tasks to free up your time, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Join me as we uncover the keys to success in today’s fast-paced design landscape!

LuAnn Nigara and Hannah Bowyer’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Efficiency creates dollar bills.” - LuAnn

More About Hannah Bowyer

After spending 10 years in the service industry, Hannah decided to step out on a limb and create a business that would support the life she wanted. Initially she began in the general VA space, editing blogs and doing miscellaneous tasks. She quickly realized that interior design was the niche she wanted to be in. With a keen sense for problem solving, she got to work becoming the VDA designers needed.

She now owns Hannah Bowyer and Company, a Virtual Design Assistance Agency that supports designers in various aspects of their business; from drawings and renderings, to social media and copywriting, to systems and processes. Over the years she has learned to delegate what doesn’t energize her to make space for what does. Her favorite thing is helping designers comb through the messy backend of their businesses to create clarity and direction.

Hannah currently lives abroad with her husband and two children; embracing the freedom and life she’s created.

Connect with Hannah Bowyer

Website

Instagram

Resources

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st!

Other Shows:

#950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

#1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates

#149: Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee

#871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

]]> 3786 no 1053: Jessamy Tsoris: Navigating the Design Landscape: A Journey to Full-Service Interior Design Today With Jessamy Tsoris: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I'm thrilled to share my heartfelt conversation with Jessamy Tsoris, an inspiring interior designer who transformed her career after facing unexpected challenges in the graphic design world. Jessamy opens up about her journey from sitting at a desk for hours to discovering her true passion in interior design. We delve into the importance of truly listening to clients, the creative flow that comes when you're in your element, and how to bring your best self to every project. Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking to elevate your design practice, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore Jessamy's story and what it means to show up for our clients with enthusiasm and authenticity! More About Jessamy Tsoris Jessamy is the founder of Color Zen interiors. She launched Color Zen in 2009 with intentions to simply offer paint color consulting but much to her delight, the business grew steadily into full-scale interior design. Currently, Jessamy works with a wide variety of local and remote clients on residential and commercial interiors, exteriors and color consulting projects. Fueled by a lifelong, undying love for feel-good design and ambience, Jessamy lives to create transformative spaces for a vast range of style requests and personality types. She has learned so many human lessons from connecting and listening intently to clients and also observing patterns in behavior throughout the interior design process. These observations have sparked laughter, tears, personal reflection and really great conversations with friends. She would love to share some takeaways with you. Connect with Jessamy Tsoris Website Instagram  Services Contact What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Jessamy Tsoris: Navigating the Design Landscape: A Journey to Full-Service Interior Design full 1053 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessamy Tsoris: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I'm thrilled to share my heartfelt conversation with Jessamy Tsoris, an inspiring interior designer who transformed her career after facing unexpected challenges in the graphic design world. Jessamy opens up about her journey from sitting at a desk for hours to discovering her true passion in interior design. We delve into the importance of truly listening to clients, the creative flow that comes when you're in your element, and how to bring your best self to every project. Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking to elevate your design practice, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore Jessamy's story and what it means to show up for our clients with enthusiasm and authenticity! More About Jessamy Tsoris Jessamy is the founder of Color Zen interiors. She launched Color Zen in 2009 with intentions to simply offer paint color consulting but much to her delight, the business grew steadily into full-scale interior design. Currently, Jessamy works with a wide variety of local and remote clients on residential and commercial interiors, exteriors and color consulting projects. Fueled by a lifelong, undying love for feel-good design and ambience, Jessamy lives to create transformative spaces for a vast range of style requests and personality types. She has learned so many human lessons from connecting and listening intently to clients and also observing patterns in behavior throughout the interior design process. These observations have sparked laughter, tears, personal reflection and really great conversations with friends. She would love to share some takeaways with you. Connect with Jessamy Tsoris Website Instagram  Services Contact What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Today With Jessamy Tsoris:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I'm thrilled to share my heartfelt conversation with Jessamy Tsoris, an inspiring interior designer who transformed her career after facing unexpected challenges in the graphic design world.

Jessamy opens up about her journey from sitting at a desk for hours to discovering her true passion in interior design. We delve into the importance of truly listening to clients, the creative flow that comes when you're in your element, and how to bring your best self to every project.

Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking to elevate your design practice, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore Jessamy's story and what it means to show up for our clients with enthusiasm and authenticity!

More About Jessamy Tsoris

Jessamy is the founder of Color Zen interiors. She launched Color Zen in 2009 with intentions to simply offer paint color consulting but much to her delight, the business grew steadily into full-scale interior design. Currently, Jessamy works with a wide variety of local and remote clients on residential and commercial interiors, exteriors and color consulting projects.

Fueled by a lifelong, undying love for feel-good design and ambience, Jessamy lives to create transformative spaces for a vast range of style requests and personality types. She has learned so many human lessons from connecting and listening intently to clients and also observing patterns in behavior throughout the interior design process. These observations have sparked laughter, tears, personal reflection and really great conversations with friends. She would love to share some takeaways with you.

Connect with Jessamy Tsoris

Website

Instagram 

Services

Contact

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months

Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st!

]]> 4207 no 1052: What Would Lu Do?: Decide to Be Excellent: Goal Setting for a New Year! Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! This week, my wonderful friend, productivity coach, and the host of the Small Business Straight Talk podcast, Amber De La Garza, will kick things off with a heartfelt introduction. In this episode, I will guide you through one of our most popular discussions from 2022: focusing on goal setting and the importance of starting the new year with intention. We’ll dive into practical strategies and my personal stories that emphasize excellence in everything you do. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to set meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. So, grab your notebook, and let’s get ready to kick off the year on the right foot! Enjoy the show! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success! Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn’s University - Register Now! Other Shows: #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #514: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success #524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough #150: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! #81: Power Talk Friday- Krista Coupar: Build Your Story and Your Brand #60: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #607: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #515: Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following #687: Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work #292: Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something Fri, 10 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Decide to Be Excellent: Goal Setting for a New Year! full 1052 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! This week, my wonderful friend, productivity coach, and the host of the Small Business Straight Talk podcast, Amber De La Garza, will kick things off with a heartfelt introduction. In this episode, I will guide you through one of our most popular discussions from 2022: focusing on goal setting and the importance of starting the new year with intention. We’ll dive into practical strategies and my personal stories that emphasize excellence in everything you do. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to set meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. So, grab your notebook, and let’s get ready to kick off the year on the right foot! Enjoy the show! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success! Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn’s University - Register Now! Other Shows: #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #514: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success #524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough #150: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! #81: Power Talk Friday- Krista Coupar: Build Your Story and Your Brand #60: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #607: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #515: Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following #687: Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work #292: Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! This week, my wonderful friend, productivity coach, and the host of the Small Business Straight Talk podcast, Amber De La Garza, will kick things off with a heartfelt introduction.

In this episode, I will guide you through one of our most popular discussions from 2022: focusing on goal setting and the importance of starting the new year with intention.

We’ll dive into practical strategies and my personal stories that emphasize excellence in everything you do. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to set meaningful and achievable goals for 2025.

So, grab your notebook, and let’s get ready to kick off the year on the right foot! Enjoy the show!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success!

Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series!

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn’s University - Register Now!

Other Shows:

#463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity

#514: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success

#524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough

#150: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful!

#81: Power Talk Friday- Krista Coupar: Build Your Story and Your Brand

#60: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself)

#607: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

#236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!

#270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

#169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference

#184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm

#515: Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following

#687: Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work

#292: Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm

#397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl

#573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

]]> 1340 no 1051: What Would Lu Do?: How to Handle Unrealistic Client Expectations Like a Pro Today With LuAnn Nigara: Today on A Well-Designed Business, we’re tackling a scenario every designer knows all too well: when a client’s expectations go completely off the rails. What do you do when the budget doesn’t match the vision, the scope keeps growing, and they want you to manage tasks that were never part of the plan? Whether you’re trying to salvage the project or you know it’s time to walk away, this episode will give you the tools to do it like a pro. You’ll learn: ✅ What NOT to do when it’s time to say no. ✅ How to end the relationship with clarity, respect, and professionalism. ✅ Real-world strategies for handling clients who push beyond scope. If you’ve ever felt stuck in this kind of situation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to learn how saying no can protect your time, energy, and reputation—and how it’s the key to building a well-designed business. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success! Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn’s University - Register Now! Tue, 07 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: How to Handle Unrealistic Client Expectations Like a Pro full 1051 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Today on A Well-Designed Business, we’re tackling a scenario every designer knows all too well: when a client’s expectations go completely off the rails. What do you do when the budget doesn’t match the vision, the scope keeps growing, and they want you to manage tasks that were never part of the plan? Whether you’re trying to salvage the project or you know it’s time to walk away, this episode will give you the tools to do it like a pro. You’ll learn: ✅ What NOT to do when it’s time to say no. ✅ How to end the relationship with clarity, respect, and professionalism. ✅ Real-world strategies for handling clients who push beyond scope. If you’ve ever felt stuck in this kind of situation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to learn how saying no can protect your time, energy, and reputation—and how it’s the key to building a well-designed business. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success! Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn’s University - Register Now! Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, we’re tackling a scenario every designer knows all too well: when a client’s expectations go completely off the rails.

What do you do when the budget doesn’t match the vision, the scope keeps growing, and they want you to manage tasks that were never part of the plan? Whether you’re trying to salvage the project or you know it’s time to walk away, this episode will give you the tools to do it like a pro.

You’ll learn:

✅ What NOT to do when it’s time to say no.

✅ How to end the relationship with clarity, respect, and professionalism.

✅ Real-world strategies for handling clients who push beyond scope.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in this kind of situation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to learn how saying no can protect your time, energy, and reputation—and how it’s the key to building a well-designed business.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success!

Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series!

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn’s University - Register Now!

]]> 2009 no 1050: Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker Today With Amy Posner: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Are you the expert in your business? The one driving conversations? Solving problems? Showing your clients how valuable you are, setting expectations, and running the ship? Or are you an order-taker, following along, being passive, and serving as a yes-man for your clients? Today, I’m joined by Amy Posner, business coach with years of experience helping freelancers and small business owners take control and build stronger, more successful businesses–we’re diving into how to stop being an order-taker and start showing up as the expert. LuAnn Nigara and Amy Posner's Ah-Ha Moments “The more that you own it and the more confident you are and you exude that, the more people are like, okay, great. You're the expert, you're the pro." -Amy “You got to do it easy breezy. Like this is what it is. Whether it's $20 or $20,000 or $200,000. This is what it is. This is just what it is.” -LuAnn More About Amy Posner Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses.  Over her 30-year career, Amy has launched six successful businesses (five of which are still in business today!) and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. Now, she focuses on empowering freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – something she teaches in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast. Amy has been featured on Copyhackers and as a guest on several top podcasts, including The Copywriter Club, Copy Chief Radio, and The Deliberate Freelancer, among others.  In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around her hometown of Olympia, raising funds for pet cancer treatment, and enjoying Washington’s natural beauty. Connect with Amy Posner Website Instagram  Podcast: Business Badassery LinkedIn Breakthrough Clients Breakthrough Sales Calls Complete Breakthrough Freelancer What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months LuAnn University – Registration Open! Fri, 03 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker full 1050 LuAnn Nigara Today With Amy Posner: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Are you the expert in your business? The one driving conversations? Solving problems? Showing your clients how valuable you are, setting expectations, and running the ship? Or are you an order-taker, following along, being passive, and serving as a yes-man for your clients? Today, I’m joined by Amy Posner, business coach with years of experience helping freelancers and small business owners take control and build stronger, more successful businesses–we’re diving into how to stop being an order-taker and start showing up as the expert. LuAnn Nigara and Amy Posner's Ah-Ha Moments “The more that you own it and the more confident you are and you exude that, the more people are like, okay, great. You're the expert, you're the pro." -Amy “You got to do it easy breezy. Like this is what it is. Whether it's $20 or $20,000 or $200,000. This is what it is. This is just what it is.” -LuAnn More About Amy Posner Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses.  Over her 30-year career, Amy has launched six successful businesses (five of which are still in business today!) and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. Now, she focuses on empowering freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – something she teaches in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast. Amy has been featured on Copyhackers and as a guest on several top podcasts, including The Copywriter Club, Copy Chief Radio, and The Deliberate Freelancer, among others.  In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around her hometown of Olympia, raising funds for pet cancer treatment, and enjoying Washington’s natural beauty. Connect with Amy Posner Website Instagram  Podcast: Business Badassery LinkedIn Breakthrough Clients Breakthrough Sales Calls Complete Breakthrough Freelancer What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months LuAnn University – Registration Open! Today With Amy Posner:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Are you the expert in your business? The one driving conversations? Solving problems? Showing your clients how valuable you are, setting expectations, and running the ship? Or are you an order-taker, following along, being passive, and serving as a yes-man for your clients?

Today, I’m joined by Amy Posner, business coach with years of experience helping freelancers and small business owners take control and build stronger, more successful businesses–we’re diving into how to stop being an order-taker and start showing up as the expert.

LuAnn Nigara and Amy Posner's Ah-Ha Moments

“The more that you own it and the more confident you are and you exude that, the more people are like, okay, great. You're the expert, you're the pro." -Amy

“You got to do it easy breezy. Like this is what it is. Whether it's $20 or $20,000 or $200,000. This is what it is. This is just what it is.” -LuAnn

More About Amy Posner

Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses. 

Over her 30-year career, Amy has launched six successful businesses (five of which are still in business today!) and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. Now, she focuses on empowering freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – something she teaches in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast.

Amy has been featured on Copyhackers and as a guest on several top podcasts, including The Copywriter Club, Copy Chief Radio, and The Deliberate Freelancer, among others. 

In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around her hometown of Olympia, raising funds for pet cancer treatment, and enjoying Washington’s natural beauty.

Connect with Amy Posner

Website

Instagram 

Podcast: Business Badassery

LinkedIn

Breakthrough Clients

Breakthrough Sales Calls

Complete Breakthrough Freelancer

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

]]> 4328 no 1049: What Would Lu Do?: Celebrate Your Wins and Set Your Goals: A New Year’s Challenge Today With LuAnn Nigara: As we wrap up 2024, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and wins from this past year—and looking ahead to 2025. In this episode, I share the stories and milestones that shaped my year, the powerful insights I’ve gained from incredible people, and a challenge for you as you step into the new year. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, planning your next move, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace excellence, invest in yourself, and create the success you deserve. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Katie Decker Erickson’s Success By Design episode: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 [The Table] A Well-Designed Business® 4-Part Docuseries CFO2GO LuAnn’s University Other Shows: AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! AWDB #1004: Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet AWDB #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference AWDB #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Celebrate Your Wins and Set Your Goals: A New Year’s Challenge full 1049 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: As we wrap up 2024, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and wins from this past year—and looking ahead to 2025. In this episode, I share the stories and milestones that shaped my year, the powerful insights I’ve gained from incredible people, and a challenge for you as you step into the new year. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, planning your next move, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace excellence, invest in yourself, and create the success you deserve. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Katie Decker Erickson’s Success By Design episode: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 [The Table] A Well-Designed Business® 4-Part Docuseries CFO2GO LuAnn’s University Other Shows: AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! AWDB #1004: Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet AWDB #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference AWDB #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm Today With LuAnn Nigara:

As we wrap up 2024, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and wins from this past year—and looking ahead to 2025. In this episode, I share the stories and milestones that shaped my year, the powerful insights I’ve gained from incredible people, and a challenge for you as you step into the new year. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, planning your next move, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace excellence, invest in yourself, and create the success you deserve.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Katie Decker Erickson’s Success By Design episode: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 [The Table]

A Well-Designed Business® 4-Part Docuseries

CFO2GO

LuAnn’s University

Other Shows:

AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience

AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years!

AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur

AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

AWDB #1004: Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet

AWDB #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference

AWDB #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm

]]> 2138 no 1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates Today With Melanie Lybrand: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today’s on-air coaching session, I’m helping my guest, Melanie Lybrand, conquer an ongoing fear of raising her rates–one that’s so strong it keeps creeping back even after she’s committed to changing it. Today, we’re working through the stories she’s been telling herself and making a tangible action plan to get her over the hump that’s holding her back. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Lybrand's Ah-Ha Moments “Here’s what you do with fear. The next time you come up with a fee, I want you to come up with it and I want you to add to it. Next time you calculate, you think it's 10,000, you are going to say $11,000, period. You are not passing go, you're not collecting $200, do it, okay? Because here's what I know, somebody that will pay 10 will pay 11.” -LuAnn “If you remember nothing about sales, remember when it truly is about the other person and your actual depth of understanding that you are the answer for that person. You are now in service of them.” -LuAnn More About Melanie Lybrand Melanie is the owner of Happy House Interiors, based in Santa Cruz, CA. Even as a little girl she was fascinated by houses and their interiors, but it wasn’t until her 40s that it dawned on her she could make a career out of that passion. After finishing a design program she spent her first 7 years in the field as a kitchen and bath designer. Realizing she wanted to branch out and be her own boss, Melanie started Happy House Interiors in 2023, a boutique interior design firm specializing in eclectic interiors with an emphasis on historical homes. Connect with Melanie Lybrand Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Fri, 27 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates full 1048 LuAnn Nigara Today With Melanie Lybrand: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today’s on-air coaching session, I’m helping my guest, Melanie Lybrand, conquer an ongoing fear of raising her rates–one that’s so strong it keeps creeping back even after she’s committed to changing it. Today, we’re working through the stories she’s been telling herself and making a tangible action plan to get her over the hump that’s holding her back. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Lybrand's Ah-Ha Moments “Here’s what you do with fear. The next time you come up with a fee, I want you to come up with it and I want you to add to it. Next time you calculate, you think it's 10,000, you are going to say $11,000, period. You are not passing go, you're not collecting $200, do it, okay? Because here's what I know, somebody that will pay 10 will pay 11.” -LuAnn “If you remember nothing about sales, remember when it truly is about the other person and your actual depth of understanding that you are the answer for that person. You are now in service of them.” -LuAnn More About Melanie Lybrand Melanie is the owner of Happy House Interiors, based in Santa Cruz, CA. Even as a little girl she was fascinated by houses and their interiors, but it wasn’t until her 40s that it dawned on her she could make a career out of that passion. After finishing a design program she spent her first 7 years in the field as a kitchen and bath designer. Realizing she wanted to branch out and be her own boss, Melanie started Happy House Interiors in 2023, a boutique interior design firm specializing in eclectic interiors with an emphasis on historical homes. Connect with Melanie Lybrand Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Today With Melanie Lybrand:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today’s on-air coaching session, I’m helping my guest, Melanie Lybrand, conquer an ongoing fear of raising her rates–one that’s so strong it keeps creeping back even after she’s committed to changing it.

Today, we’re working through the stories she’s been telling herself and making a tangible action plan to get her over the hump that’s holding her back.

LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Lybrand's Ah-Ha Moments

“Here’s what you do with fear. The next time you come up with a fee, I want you to come up with it and I want you to add to it. Next time you calculate, you think it's 10,000, you are going to say $11,000, period. You are not passing go, you're not collecting $200, do it, okay? Because here's what I know, somebody that will pay 10 will pay 11.” -LuAnn

“If you remember nothing about sales, remember when it truly is about the other person and your actual depth of understanding that you are the answer for that person. You are now in service of them.” -LuAnn

More About Melanie Lybrand

Melanie is the owner of Happy House Interiors, based in Santa Cruz, CA. Even as a little girl she was fascinated by houses and their interiors, but it wasn’t until her 40s that it dawned on her she could make a career out of that passion. After finishing a design program she spent her first 7 years in the field as a kitchen and bath designer. Realizing she wanted to branch out and be her own boss, Melanie started Happy House Interiors in 2023, a boutique interior design firm specializing in eclectic interiors with an emphasis on historical homes.

Connect with Melanie Lybrand

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Houzz

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders!

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 4620 no 1047: NeKeia McSwain: Saying No to Say Yes: Lessons on Alignment and Leadership Today With NeKeia McSwain: In today’s episode of A Well Designed Business, I sit down with the inspiring NeKeia McSwain, a trailblazer in the interior design industry. NeKeia shares her journey of embracing authenticity and the importance of showing up as your true self in both personal and professional settings. We dive deep into her experiences, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced in an industry that can sometimes prioritize facade over genuine connection. NeKeia emphasizes the value of building supportive circles and the need for emotional intelligence in our interactions, whether with clients, industry peers, or brand partners. Join us as we explore how to navigate the complexities of the design world while remaining true to ourselves. NeKeia's insights remind us that authenticity is not just a personal mantra but a vital element in creating meaningful relationships and successful collaborations. Tune in to discover how you can apply these lessons in your own journey and foster a community where everyone can thrive. More About NeKeia McSwain NeKeia ‘Keia’ McSwain is an award-winning interior designer, product designer, and Principal of NeKeia & Co., a full-service luxury design firm specializing in the marriage of functionality and stunningly custom interiors. Her creative projects often incorporate eye-popping colors and textures that are as unique as each client's. Born in the Southeast and based in Denver, CO, Keia has designed residential and commercial customers across the U.S. Most recently, Keia has furthered her talents in the world of product design with her inaugural collection of handmade leather artisanal lighting called ‘The NeKeia Collection’ for Ngala Trading. She has been prominently featured across the pages of The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Better Homes & Gardens, Architectural Digest, Forbes, and LUXE Magazine to name a few, and was named an Emerging Star by Architectural Digest and People to Watch by Designers Today. An activist and pioneer for diversity in design, Keia serves as the President of Black Interior Designers Inc., the nation’s largest and longest-established organization for designers of color. In this role, Keia uses her voice to elevate those who are traditionally marginalized, particularly black interior designers and aspiring design professionals, through a supportive community that exposes, encourages, and empowers black interior designers with personal and professional growth opportunities. Connect with NeKeia McSwain Website Instagram The NeKeia Collection for Ngala Trading Black Interior Designers Network What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University – Registration Open! Tue, 24 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 NeKeia McSwain: Saying No to Say Yes: Lessons on Alignment and Leadership full 1047 LuAnn Nigara Today With NeKeia McSwain: In today’s episode of A Well Designed Business, I sit down with the inspiring NeKeia McSwain, a trailblazer in the interior design industry. NeKeia shares her journey of embracing authenticity and the importance of showing up as your true self in both personal and professional settings. We dive deep into her experiences, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced in an industry that can sometimes prioritize facade over genuine connection. NeKeia emphasizes the value of building supportive circles and the need for emotional intelligence in our interactions, whether with clients, industry peers, or brand partners. Join us as we explore how to navigate the complexities of the design world while remaining true to ourselves. NeKeia's insights remind us that authenticity is not just a personal mantra but a vital element in creating meaningful relationships and successful collaborations. Tune in to discover how you can apply these lessons in your own journey and foster a community where everyone can thrive. More About NeKeia McSwain NeKeia ‘Keia’ McSwain is an award-winning interior designer, product designer, and Principal of NeKeia & Co., a full-service luxury design firm specializing in the marriage of functionality and stunningly custom interiors. Her creative projects often incorporate eye-popping colors and textures that are as unique as each client's. Born in the Southeast and based in Denver, CO, Keia has designed residential and commercial customers across the U.S. Most recently, Keia has furthered her talents in the world of product design with her inaugural collection of handmade leather artisanal lighting called ‘The NeKeia Collection’ for Ngala Trading. She has been prominently featured across the pages of The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Better Homes & Gardens, Architectural Digest, Forbes, and LUXE Magazine to name a few, and was named an Emerging Star by Architectural Digest and People to Watch by Designers Today. An activist and pioneer for diversity in design, Keia serves as the President of Black Interior Designers Inc., the nation’s largest and longest-established organization for designers of color. In this role, Keia uses her voice to elevate those who are traditionally marginalized, particularly black interior designers and aspiring design professionals, through a supportive community that exposes, encourages, and empowers black interior designers with personal and professional growth opportunities. Connect with NeKeia McSwain Website Instagram The NeKeia Collection for Ngala Trading Black Interior Designers Network What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University – Registration Open! Today With NeKeia McSwain:

In today’s episode of A Well Designed Business, I sit down with the inspiring NeKeia McSwain, a trailblazer in the interior design industry. NeKeia shares her journey of embracing authenticity and the importance of showing up as your true self in both personal and professional settings.

We dive deep into her experiences, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced in an industry that can sometimes prioritize facade over genuine connection. NeKeia emphasizes the value of building supportive circles and the need for emotional intelligence in our interactions, whether with clients, industry peers, or brand partners.

Join us as we explore how to navigate the complexities of the design world while remaining true to ourselves. NeKeia's insights remind us that authenticity is not just a personal mantra but a vital element in creating meaningful relationships and successful collaborations.

Tune in to discover how you can apply these lessons in your own journey and foster a community where everyone can thrive.

More About NeKeia McSwain

NeKeia ‘Keia’ McSwain is an award-winning interior designer, product designer, and Principal of NeKeia & Co., a full-service luxury design firm specializing in the marriage of functionality and stunningly custom interiors.

Her creative projects often incorporate eye-popping colors and textures that are as unique as each client's. Born in the Southeast and based in Denver, CO, Keia has designed residential and commercial customers across the U.S. Most recently, Keia has furthered her talents in the world of product design with her inaugural collection of handmade leather artisanal lighting called ‘The NeKeia Collection’ for Ngala Trading.

She has been prominently featured across the pages of The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Better Homes & Gardens, Architectural Digest, Forbes, and LUXE Magazine to name a few, and was named an Emerging Star by Architectural Digest and People to Watch by Designers Today. An activist and pioneer for diversity in design, Keia serves as the President of Black Interior Designers Inc., the nation’s largest and longest-established organization for designers of color. In this role, Keia uses her voice to elevate those who are traditionally marginalized, particularly black interior designers and aspiring design professionals, through a supportive community that exposes, encourages, and empowers black interior designers with personal and professional growth opportunities.

Connect with NeKeia McSwain

Website

Instagram

The NeKeia Collection for Ngala Trading

Black Interior Designers Network

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

]]> 3984 no 1046: Jennifer Tokatyan: Building a Culture that Drives Business Results Today With Jennifer Tokatyan: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I speak with Jennifer Tokatyan, leadership consultant and partner with Eileen B Hahn. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer shares her proven 7-step framework for building strong company culture that drives team performance and business growth. Don't miss information about her upcoming LuAnn University course, "Build an Exceptional Team that Gets Results," starting January 2025. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Tokatyan's Ah-Ha Moments “Culture matters the moment you have another human being you are interacting with because you are now interdependent on them to execute on the very things you are trying to deliver,” - Jennifer Tokatyan “Once you clarify yourself as the leader and you exemplify that and are consistent, the whole team will follow. And the ones who don't, you can show them the door,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Tokatyan Jennifer Tokatyan is a leadership consultant and a consulting partner with Eileen B Hahn. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in small and large organizations across multiple industries in public, private and nonprofit sectors. She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. Jennifer provides leadership, talent optimization, organizational development, strategic HR consulting and coaching to organizations seeking to grow their people and business, deliver on their brand promise, create the culture and environment where its people flourish and achieve exceptional results. She has several active interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October, 2022. Connect with Jennifer Tokatyan Website LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkit Bundle LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management Fri, 20 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Jennifer Tokatyan: Building a Culture that Drives Business Results full 1046 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jennifer Tokatyan: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I speak with Jennifer Tokatyan, leadership consultant and partner with Eileen B Hahn. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer shares her proven 7-step framework for building strong company culture that drives team performance and business growth. Don't miss information about her upcoming LuAnn University course, "Build an Exceptional Team that Gets Results," starting January 2025. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Tokatyan's Ah-Ha Moments “Culture matters the moment you have another human being you are interacting with because you are now interdependent on them to execute on the very things you are trying to deliver,” - Jennifer Tokatyan “Once you clarify yourself as the leader and you exemplify that and are consistent, the whole team will follow. And the ones who don't, you can show them the door,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Tokatyan Jennifer Tokatyan is a leadership consultant and a consulting partner with Eileen B Hahn. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in small and large organizations across multiple industries in public, private and nonprofit sectors. She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. Jennifer provides leadership, talent optimization, organizational development, strategic HR consulting and coaching to organizations seeking to grow their people and business, deliver on their brand promise, create the culture and environment where its people flourish and achieve exceptional results. She has several active interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October, 2022. Connect with Jennifer Tokatyan Website LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkit Bundle LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management Today With Jennifer Tokatyan:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I speak with Jennifer Tokatyan, leadership consultant and partner with Eileen B Hahn. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer shares her proven 7-step framework for building strong company culture that drives team performance and business growth. Don't miss information about her upcoming LuAnn University course, "Build an Exceptional Team that Gets Results," starting January 2025.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Tokatyan's Ah-Ha Moments

“Culture matters the moment you have another human being you are interacting with because you are now interdependent on them to execute on the very things you are trying to deliver,” - Jennifer Tokatyan

“Once you clarify yourself as the leader and you exemplify that and are consistent, the whole team will follow. And the ones who don't, you can show them the door,” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Tokatyan

Jennifer Tokatyan is a leadership consultant and a consulting partner with Eileen B Hahn. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in small and large organizations across multiple industries in public, private and nonprofit sectors. She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more.

Jennifer provides leadership, talent optimization, organizational development, strategic HR consulting and coaching to organizations seeking to grow their people and business, deliver on their brand promise, create the culture and environment where its people flourish and achieve exceptional results. She has several active interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October, 2022.

Connect with Jennifer Tokatyan

Website

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management

]]> 4058 no 1045: What Would Lu Do?: Big Decisions, Bigger Lessons: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Process Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Have you ever faced a business opportunity that made you stop in your tracks? It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, isn’t it? On this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at how I navigated one of those moments. With insights from trusted advisors like Kate O’Hara, I learned valuable lessons that can help YOU handle those big decisions in your business: How to slow down, gather information, and make a thoughtful choice. Why having a network of advisors is a game-changer. How to balance confidence with strategy in decision-making. Listen now for real-world strategies and actionable takeaways. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Experts books The Making of a Well-Designed Business: The Workshop on January 8th, 2025! Other Shows: AWDB #1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press AWDB #1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling Tue, 17 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Big Decisions, Bigger Lessons: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Process full 1045 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Have you ever faced a business opportunity that made you stop in your tracks? It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, isn’t it? On this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at how I navigated one of those moments. With insights from trusted advisors like Kate O’Hara, I learned valuable lessons that can help YOU handle those big decisions in your business: How to slow down, gather information, and make a thoughtful choice. Why having a network of advisors is a game-changer. How to balance confidence with strategy in decision-making. Listen now for real-world strategies and actionable takeaways. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Experts books The Making of a Well-Designed Business: The Workshop on January 8th, 2025! Other Shows: AWDB #1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press AWDB #1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Have you ever faced a business opportunity that made you stop in your tracks? It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, isn’t it? On this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at how I navigated one of those moments. With insights from trusted advisors like Kate O’Hara, I learned valuable lessons that can help YOU handle those big decisions in your business:

  • How to slow down, gather information, and make a thoughtful choice.
  • Why having a network of advisors is a game-changer.
  • How to balance confidence with strategy in decision-making.

Listen now for real-world strategies and actionable takeaways.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Power Talk Friday Experts books

The Making of a Well-Designed Business: The Workshop on January 8th, 2025!

Other Shows:

AWDB #1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press

AWDB #1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling

]]> 1683 no 1044: What Would Lu Do?: Think Different: Applying Lessons from Steve Jobs to Your Interior Design Business Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Recently, I listened to Steve Jobs’ biography, and it sparked some big ideas. Steve was more than a tech innovator—he was a master of customer experience, a ruthless prioritizer, and a perfectionist when it came to excellence. In this episode, I’ll reflect on his genius and how we can apply it to our interior design firms. From branding and systems to productivity and storytelling, we’ll cover practical strategies inspired by Jobs and blended with advice from my Power Talk Friday Experts books. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to simplify, streamline, and succeed in your business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why your customer experience is your brand’s story—and how to control it. How to create systems that simplify your life and delight your clients. Why saying “no” is the key to productivity and growth. The art of storytelling to create emotional connections with your audience. Why excellence is a daily choice that leads to a lasting legacy. Grab your notebook and tune in here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Experts books Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard Darla Powell’s Instagram for Interior Designers Other Shows: AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers Fri, 13 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Think Different: Applying Lessons from Steve Jobs to Your Interior Design Business full 1044 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Recently, I listened to Steve Jobs’ biography, and it sparked some big ideas. Steve was more than a tech innovator—he was a master of customer experience, a ruthless prioritizer, and a perfectionist when it came to excellence. In this episode, I’ll reflect on his genius and how we can apply it to our interior design firms. From branding and systems to productivity and storytelling, we’ll cover practical strategies inspired by Jobs and blended with advice from my Power Talk Friday Experts books. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to simplify, streamline, and succeed in your business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why your customer experience is your brand’s story—and how to control it. How to create systems that simplify your life and delight your clients. Why saying “no” is the key to productivity and growth. The art of storytelling to create emotional connections with your audience. Why excellence is a daily choice that leads to a lasting legacy. Grab your notebook and tune in here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Experts books Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard Darla Powell’s Instagram for Interior Designers Other Shows: AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Recently, I listened to Steve Jobs’ biography, and it sparked some big ideas. Steve was more than a tech innovator—he was a master of customer experience, a ruthless prioritizer, and a perfectionist when it came to excellence. In this episode, I’ll reflect on his genius and how we can apply it to our interior design firms.

From branding and systems to productivity and storytelling, we’ll cover practical strategies inspired by Jobs and blended with advice from my Power Talk Friday Experts books. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to simplify, streamline, and succeed in your business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why your customer experience is your brand’s story—and how to control it.
  • How to create systems that simplify your life and delight your clients.
  • Why saying “no” is the key to productivity and growth.
  • The art of storytelling to create emotional connections with your audience.
  • Why excellence is a daily choice that leads to a lasting legacy.

Grab your notebook and tune in here!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Power Talk Friday Experts books

Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard

Darla Powell’s Instagram for Interior Designers

Other Shows:

AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

AWDB #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

]]> 2361 no 1043: Kristin Bartone: Pivoting Your Interior Design Business When Life Throws You Curveballs Today With Kristin Bartone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would happen to your business today if something happened with you or a family member that uprooted everything in your life? Would you be able to continue your work. The truth is that even a well-designed business can struggle in life circumstances. My guest today, Kristin Bartone, knows all about that. She’s here to share a story of handling the unexpected—and how she kept her business afloat even when her personal life demanded her entire focus. LuAnn Nigara and Kristin Bartone's Ah-Ha Moments “Trying to focus on the family and being together and repairing the family unit, you know, is really important to all of us. So we’re just focusing on that and then just trying to keep things chugging along.” -Kristin “You've had to get more efficient to do it from a distance. And that's never gonna be a bad thing. The business is never gonna be like, dang it, you made me more efficient!” -LuAnn More About Kristin Bartone Kristin has been around design and home remodeling her entire life. Growing up in a family of seven, she experienced first hand how home renovations improved the quality of life for her and her family! Kristin's namesake firm, Bartone Interiors, is located in Richmond, Virginia and services clients across the country.  Kristin is an experienced leader and advocate for sustainable, timeless design solutions that take a holistic, regenerative approach to space and the idea of home. She champions the idea that every designer should create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible, restorative and inclusive. Her approach ensures that each project looks great and feels amazing; reflecting her commitment to creating enduring spaces that resonate with all who experience them. Connect with Kristin Bartone Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Blog Sustainable Living Magazine (sign up) Bartone Interiors Mission for Sustainable, Restorative Design Bartone Interiors Portfolio What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months! LuAnn University – Registration Open! Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Kristin Bartone: Pivoting Your Interior Design Business When Life Throws You Curveballs full 1043 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kristin Bartone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would happen to your business today if something happened with you or a family member that uprooted everything in your life? Would you be able to continue your work. The truth is that even a well-designed business can struggle in life circumstances. My guest today, Kristin Bartone, knows all about that. She’s here to share a story of handling the unexpected—and how she kept her business afloat even when her personal life demanded her entire focus. LuAnn Nigara and Kristin Bartone's Ah-Ha Moments “Trying to focus on the family and being together and repairing the family unit, you know, is really important to all of us. So we’re just focusing on that and then just trying to keep things chugging along.” -Kristin “You've had to get more efficient to do it from a distance. And that's never gonna be a bad thing. The business is never gonna be like, dang it, you made me more efficient!” -LuAnn More About Kristin Bartone Kristin has been around design and home remodeling her entire life. Growing up in a family of seven, she experienced first hand how home renovations improved the quality of life for her and her family! Kristin's namesake firm, Bartone Interiors, is located in Richmond, Virginia and services clients across the country.  Kristin is an experienced leader and advocate for sustainable, timeless design solutions that take a holistic, regenerative approach to space and the idea of home. She champions the idea that every designer should create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible, restorative and inclusive. Her approach ensures that each project looks great and feels amazing; reflecting her commitment to creating enduring spaces that resonate with all who experience them. Connect with Kristin Bartone Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Blog Sustainable Living Magazine (sign up) Bartone Interiors Mission for Sustainable, Restorative Design Bartone Interiors Portfolio What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months! LuAnn University – Registration Open! Today With Kristin Bartone:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would happen to your business today if something happened with you or a family member that uprooted everything in your life? Would you be able to continue your work.

The truth is that even a well-designed business can struggle in life circumstances. My guest today, Kristin Bartone, knows all about that.

She’s here to share a story of handling the unexpected—and how she kept her business afloat even when her personal life demanded her entire focus.

LuAnn Nigara and Kristin Bartone's Ah-Ha Moments

“Trying to focus on the family and being together and repairing the family unit, you know, is really important to all of us. So we’re just focusing on that and then just trying to keep things chugging along.” -Kristin

“You've had to get more efficient to do it from a distance. And that's never gonna be a bad thing. The business is never gonna be like, dang it, you made me more efficient!” -LuAnn

More About Kristin Bartone

Kristin has been around design and home remodeling her entire life. Growing up in a family of seven, she experienced first hand how home renovations improved the quality of life for her and her family! Kristin's namesake firm, Bartone Interiors, is located in Richmond, Virginia and services clients across the country. 

Kristin is an experienced leader and advocate for sustainable, timeless design solutions that take a holistic, regenerative approach to space and the idea of home. She champions the idea that every designer should create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible, restorative and inclusive. Her approach ensures that each project looks great and feels amazing; reflecting her commitment to creating enduring spaces that resonate with all who experience them.

Connect with Kristin Bartone

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Blog

Sustainable Living Magazine (sign up)

Bartone Interiors Mission for Sustainable, Restorative Design

Bartone Interiors Portfolio

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio - Get 20% off your first three months!

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

]]> 5150 no 1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press Today With Kate O’Hara: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, we sit down with Kate O’Hara, CEO of O’Hara Interiors, to discuss effective end-of-year business strategies for designers. As the holiday season approaches and client activity slows, Kate shares actionable tips on optimizing workflow, reconnecting with past clients, creating engaging holiday content, and thoughtful gifting strategies. Whether you’re a solo designer or leading a team, this conversation is packed with insights to help you set your business up for a successful new year. More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm WTFP #40: Linda Holt: Learn to Take Expert Photographs of Your Window Treatments From Your Smartphone Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press full 1042 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate O’Hara: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, we sit down with Kate O’Hara, CEO of O’Hara Interiors, to discuss effective end-of-year business strategies for designers. As the holiday season approaches and client activity slows, Kate shares actionable tips on optimizing workflow, reconnecting with past clients, creating engaging holiday content, and thoughtful gifting strategies. Whether you’re a solo designer or leading a team, this conversation is packed with insights to help you set your business up for a successful new year. More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University – Registration Open! Other Shows: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm WTFP #40: Linda Holt: Learn to Take Expert Photographs of Your Window Treatments From Your Smartphone Today With Kate O’Hara:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, we sit down with Kate O’Hara, CEO of O’Hara Interiors, to discuss effective end-of-year business strategies for designers. As the holiday season approaches and client activity slows, Kate shares actionable tips on optimizing workflow, reconnecting with past clients, creating engaging holiday content, and thoughtful gifting strategies. Whether you’re a solo designer or leading a team, this conversation is packed with insights to help you set your business up for a successful new year.

More About Kate O’Hara

Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines.

Connect with Kate O’Hara

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Houzz

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home

AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm

WTFP #40: Linda Holt: Learn to Take Expert Photographs of Your Window Treatments From Your Smartphone

]]> 5124 no 1041: Megan Atkinson: Leveraging Relationships with Trades to Build a Strong Business Today With Megan Atkinson: Today with Megan Rose Atkinson of MEGANROSE Interiors, we're discussing one of the most critical aspects of running a successful design business — vendor relationships. Megan shares her journey from wearing a tool belt with leather pants to building a thriving design firm with locations in Michigan and Arizona. With a "cheetah mindset" and philosophy of "whatever you are, be a good one," she breaks down exactly how she approaches these crucial industry partnerships. Megan shares specific strategies for building vendor networks in new territories, managing tough budget conversations, and maintaining strong relationships while staying in your lane. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing vendor partnerships, Megan's practical approach to collaboration offers valuable insights for every stage of business growth. LuAnn Nigara and Megan Atkinson's Ah-Ha Moments “I'd rather have one hard conversation than 10 million terrible conversations along the way.” - Megan “Whatever you are, be a good one.” - Megan More About Megan Atkinson Founder and principal designer of MEGANROSE Interiors, Megan Rose Atkinson is an entrepreneur driven by a passion for home. With an established career in real estate, Megan launched her interior design company in 2020 at the beginning of a global pandemic. At a time when most were closing their doors, Megan was looking to open a new door into the construction and design world. As Principal Designer, Megan oversees all design projects from concept to completion. Megan’s design approach lies in her devotion to creating reflective spaces based on clients’ lifestyles. Megan splits her time in Novi, Michigan with her husband and their three young children and their family home in Scottsdale, AZ. In Megan’s free time she can be found on the soccer sidelines cheering on her kids, browsing a dusty antique store, or teaching at her beloved barre studio. Connect with Megan Atkinson Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: 986 Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things #878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #681 Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business #439: Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations #370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success #614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business Tue, 03 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Megan Atkinson: Leveraging Relationships with Trades to Build a Strong Business full 1041 LuAnn Nigara Today With Megan Atkinson: Today with Megan Rose Atkinson of MEGANROSE Interiors, we're discussing one of the most critical aspects of running a successful design business — vendor relationships. Megan shares her journey from wearing a tool belt with leather pants to building a thriving design firm with locations in Michigan and Arizona. With a "cheetah mindset" and philosophy of "whatever you are, be a good one," she breaks down exactly how she approaches these crucial industry partnerships. Megan shares specific strategies for building vendor networks in new territories, managing tough budget conversations, and maintaining strong relationships while staying in your lane. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing vendor partnerships, Megan's practical approach to collaboration offers valuable insights for every stage of business growth. LuAnn Nigara and Megan Atkinson's Ah-Ha Moments “I'd rather have one hard conversation than 10 million terrible conversations along the way.” - Megan “Whatever you are, be a good one.” - Megan More About Megan Atkinson Founder and principal designer of MEGANROSE Interiors, Megan Rose Atkinson is an entrepreneur driven by a passion for home. With an established career in real estate, Megan launched her interior design company in 2020 at the beginning of a global pandemic. At a time when most were closing their doors, Megan was looking to open a new door into the construction and design world. As Principal Designer, Megan oversees all design projects from concept to completion. Megan’s design approach lies in her devotion to creating reflective spaces based on clients’ lifestyles. Megan splits her time in Novi, Michigan with her husband and their three young children and their family home in Scottsdale, AZ. In Megan’s free time she can be found on the soccer sidelines cheering on her kids, browsing a dusty antique store, or teaching at her beloved barre studio. Connect with Megan Atkinson Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: 986 Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things #878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #681 Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business #439: Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations #370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success #614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business Today With Megan Atkinson:

Today with Megan Rose Atkinson of MEGANROSE Interiors, we're discussing one of the most critical aspects of running a successful design business — vendor relationships. Megan shares her journey from wearing a tool belt with leather pants to building a thriving design firm with locations in Michigan and Arizona. With a "cheetah mindset" and philosophy of "whatever you are, be a good one," she breaks down exactly how she approaches these crucial industry partnerships.

Megan shares specific strategies for building vendor networks in new territories, managing tough budget conversations, and maintaining strong relationships while staying in your lane. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing vendor partnerships, Megan's practical approach to collaboration offers valuable insights for every stage of business growth.

LuAnn Nigara and Megan Atkinson's Ah-Ha Moments

“I'd rather have one hard conversation than 10 million terrible conversations along the way.” - Megan

“Whatever you are, be a good one.” - Megan

More About Megan Atkinson

Founder and principal designer of MEGANROSE Interiors, Megan Rose Atkinson is an entrepreneur driven by a passion for home. With an established career in real estate, Megan launched her interior design company in 2020 at the beginning of a global pandemic. At a time when most were closing their doors, Megan was looking to open a new door into the construction and design world. As Principal Designer, Megan oversees all design projects from concept to completion. Megan’s design approach lies in her devotion to creating reflective spaces based on clients’ lifestyles.

Megan splits her time in Novi, Michigan with her husband and their three young children and their family home in Scottsdale, AZ. In Megan’s free time she can be found on the soccer sidelines cheering on her kids, browsing a dusty antique store, or teaching at her beloved barre studio.

Connect with Megan Atkinson

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows:

986 Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

#878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#681 Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors

#953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography

#14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

#703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

#635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

#439: Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations

#370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design

#967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success

#614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business

]]> 4878 no 1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire Today With Eileen Hahn: Today on Power Talk Friday, I am joined by my cousin and hiring expert Eileen Hahn, who brings her 30 years of expertise in helping businesses find and retain exceptional talent. After seeing countless design firms struggle with hiring (and making some expensive mistakes myself), I knew we needed Eileen's proven 5-step formula for making outstanding hires. Whether you're building your team or planning your next hire, these simple, actionable steps will transform your hiring process and help you build the dream team your design business deserves. LuAnn Nigara and Eileen Hahn's Ah-Ha Moments “If you do nothing else from this whole process, do an assessment at whatever level that is. Have them do a task you’re going to have them do a week later,” - Eileen Hahn “Ask behavior-based interview questions because the best predictor of future performance is past behavior,” - Eillen Hahn More About Eileen Hahn Best-selling author of The Job You Were Born For: Seven Steps to Align Your Work With Your Life Mission. Influential business consultant who enhances revenue and productivity, while fostering joy and engagement among employees in Fortune 500 companies like Anheuser-Busch, General Motors, Pfizer and over 100 interior design firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, generate financial results, and live and work in joy. Connect with Eileen Hahn Website Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Interior Designer Job Descriptions What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkits For Interior Design Firms Other Shows: #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People Fri, 29 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire full 1040 LuAnn Nigara Today With Eileen Hahn: Today on Power Talk Friday, I am joined by my cousin and hiring expert Eileen Hahn, who brings her 30 years of expertise in helping businesses find and retain exceptional talent. After seeing countless design firms struggle with hiring (and making some expensive mistakes myself), I knew we needed Eileen's proven 5-step formula for making outstanding hires. Whether you're building your team or planning your next hire, these simple, actionable steps will transform your hiring process and help you build the dream team your design business deserves. LuAnn Nigara and Eileen Hahn's Ah-Ha Moments “If you do nothing else from this whole process, do an assessment at whatever level that is. Have them do a task you’re going to have them do a week later,” - Eileen Hahn “Ask behavior-based interview questions because the best predictor of future performance is past behavior,” - Eillen Hahn More About Eileen Hahn Best-selling author of The Job You Were Born For: Seven Steps to Align Your Work With Your Life Mission. Influential business consultant who enhances revenue and productivity, while fostering joy and engagement among employees in Fortune 500 companies like Anheuser-Busch, General Motors, Pfizer and over 100 interior design firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, generate financial results, and live and work in joy. Connect with Eileen Hahn Website Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Interior Designer Job Descriptions What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkits For Interior Design Firms Other Shows: #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People Today With Eileen Hahn:

Today on Power Talk Friday, I am joined by my cousin and hiring expert Eileen Hahn, who brings her 30 years of expertise in helping businesses find and retain exceptional talent. After seeing countless design firms struggle with hiring (and making some expensive mistakes myself), I knew we needed Eileen's proven 5-step formula for making outstanding hires. Whether you're building your team or planning your next hire, these simple, actionable steps will transform your hiring process and help you build the dream team your design business deserves.

LuAnn Nigara and Eileen Hahn's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you do nothing else from this whole process, do an assessment at whatever level that is. Have them do a task you’re going to have them do a week later,” - Eileen Hahn

“Ask behavior-based interview questions because the best predictor of future performance is past behavior,” - Eillen Hahn

More About Eileen Hahn

Best-selling author of The Job You Were Born For: Seven Steps to Align Your Work With Your Life Mission. Influential business consultant who enhances revenue and productivity, while fostering joy and engagement among employees in Fortune 500 companies like Anheuser-Busch, General Motors, Pfizer and over 100 interior design firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, generate financial results, and live and work in joy.

Connect with Eileen Hahn

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

Interior Designer Job Descriptions

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Hiring Toolkits For Interior Design Firms

Other Shows:

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

#950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

]]> 5269 no 1039: Melanie Zaelich: Consultation-Only Interior Design: How to Set Boundaries and Avoid Scope Creep Today With Melanie Zaelich: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many new designers try out consult-based design only to find themselves struggling with scope creep and feeling undervalued.  But my guest today, Melanie Zaelich, runs a thriving consult-only business. She’s a former full-service designer who deliberately chose to transition to this model—and she did so with intention, systems, and processes. Today, she shares how to avoid scope creep, provide clarity, and set boundaries for a successful consult-only design business. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Zaelich's Ah-Ha Moments “You’ve thought a lot about what you want to do. And that’s what we have to think about. You don't have the itch for the whole, you know, kit and caboodle of projects that last six months or two years till we get this thing done. Others are just so passionately driven to do it—but it’s not where your passion lies. And the thing is, every industry has all of its lanes, and they all need to be filled by people who are talented and passionate about that lane.” -LuAnn More About Melanie Zaelich Melanie Zaelich is an accomplished, award winning interior designer, known for her down-to-earth approach and creativity. As the only interior with a consult-based, à la carte business model in the Twin Cities, Melanie is transforming the way people experience interior design. Connect with Melanie Zaelich Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Digital Course for Interior Designers: Discount Code for LuAnn listeners: LUANNROCKS10 Other Shows: WTFP #284 Melanie Zaelich: Connecting Charitable Giving and Branding to Elevate Your Business and Life AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Melanie Zaelich: Consultation-Only Interior Design: How to Set Boundaries and Avoid Scope Creep full 1039 LuAnn Nigara Today With Melanie Zaelich: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many new designers try out consult-based design only to find themselves struggling with scope creep and feeling undervalued.  But my guest today, Melanie Zaelich, runs a thriving consult-only business. She’s a former full-service designer who deliberately chose to transition to this model—and she did so with intention, systems, and processes. Today, she shares how to avoid scope creep, provide clarity, and set boundaries for a successful consult-only design business. LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Zaelich's Ah-Ha Moments “You’ve thought a lot about what you want to do. And that’s what we have to think about. You don't have the itch for the whole, you know, kit and caboodle of projects that last six months or two years till we get this thing done. Others are just so passionately driven to do it—but it’s not where your passion lies. And the thing is, every industry has all of its lanes, and they all need to be filled by people who are talented and passionate about that lane.” -LuAnn More About Melanie Zaelich Melanie Zaelich is an accomplished, award winning interior designer, known for her down-to-earth approach and creativity. As the only interior with a consult-based, à la carte business model in the Twin Cities, Melanie is transforming the way people experience interior design. Connect with Melanie Zaelich Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Digital Course for Interior Designers: Discount Code for LuAnn listeners: LUANNROCKS10 Other Shows: WTFP #284 Melanie Zaelich: Connecting Charitable Giving and Branding to Elevate Your Business and Life AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours Today With Melanie Zaelich:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many new designers try out consult-based design only to find themselves struggling with scope creep and feeling undervalued. 

But my guest today, Melanie Zaelich, runs a thriving consult-only business. She’s a former full-service designer who deliberately chose to transition to this model—and she did so with intention, systems, and processes. Today, she shares how to avoid scope creep, provide clarity, and set boundaries for a successful consult-only design business.

LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Zaelich's Ah-Ha Moments

“You’ve thought a lot about what you want to do. And that’s what we have to think about. You don't have the itch for the whole, you know, kit and caboodle of projects that last six months or two years till we get this thing done. Others are just so passionately driven to do it—but it’s not where your passion lies. And the thing is, every industry has all of its lanes, and they all need to be filled by people who are talented and passionate about that lane.” -LuAnn

More About Melanie Zaelich

Melanie Zaelich is an accomplished, award winning interior designer, known for her down-to-earth approach and creativity. As the only interior with a consult-based, à la carte business model in the Twin Cities, Melanie is transforming the way people experience interior design.

Connect with Melanie Zaelich

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Digital Course for Interior Designers: Discount Code for LuAnn listeners: LUANNROCKS10

Other Shows:

WTFP #284 Melanie Zaelich: Connecting Charitable Giving and Branding to Elevate Your Business and Life

AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

]]> 5269 no 1038: What Would Lu Do?: Make 2025 Your Year! Today With LuAnn Nigara: In this week’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m sharing the no-fluff, practical strategies you need to set 2025 up for success. From defining what success truly means for you, to aligning your goals with your current season of life, to building the systems that keep you moving forward—this episode is your blueprint. Whether you’re scaling back or ready to seize new opportunities, it’s time to get intentional. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University - Registration Open! Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Make 2025 Your Year! full 1038 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: In this week’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m sharing the no-fluff, practical strategies you need to set 2025 up for success. From defining what success truly means for you, to aligning your goals with your current season of life, to building the systems that keep you moving forward—this episode is your blueprint. Whether you’re scaling back or ready to seize new opportunities, it’s time to get intentional. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University - Registration Open! Today With LuAnn Nigara:

In this week’s episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m sharing the no-fluff, practical strategies you need to set 2025 up for success. From defining what success truly means for you, to aligning your goals with your current season of life, to building the systems that keep you moving forward—this episode is your blueprint. Whether you’re scaling back or ready to seize new opportunities, it’s time to get intentional.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University - Registration Open!

]]> 1731 no 1037: Kelley Gable: A Strategic Approach to Success in Dual Markets Today With Kelley Gable: Today, with Kelley Gable of Gable Interior Designers, we dive deep into the world of niche marketing and luxury coastal design. Kelley shares her journey of redefining coastal aesthetics, moving beyond cliché beach motifs to create sophisticated, contemporary interiors. We explore her unique business model of serving clients with homes in both urban areas and coastal Delaware, and how she's structured her team to support this dual-location approach. Kelley offers valuable insights on educating clients about modern coastal design, building strategic partnerships with builders, and creating targeted marketing strategies. We also discuss her hiring process for different roles across her two offices, providing practical advice for growing a design team. Whether you're looking to carve out your own niche or expand your business across multiple locations, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on positioning your design business for success. LuAnn Nigara and Kelley Gable's Ah-Ha Moments “When hiring, you attract what you put out, so it’s important to attract people who see your vision and what to drink your “Kool-Aid, rather than just hiring too quickly,” - Kelley Gable “Relationship building blocks are the foundation for how you can get into a new market,” - Kelley Gable More About Kelley Gable Owner & Principal Designer, Kelley Gable, was born and raised in Maryland and currently shares her time between the shores of coastal Delaware in Rehoboth Beach and Severna Park, Maryland with her husband and two children. Kelley's distinct style can be described as clean, functional and open. She finds beauty in blending her traditional East Coast roots with a casual California lifestyle inspired by laid-back living. With a background in merchandising and design, Kelley brings her ability to marry style and function in each space. Connect with Kelley Gable Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University - Registration Open! Other Shows: #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter #887: Power Talk Friday: Renee Bush: Bringing the Spark Back Into Your Interior Design Business #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche #988: On Air Strategy Sessions: Cassandra Thurston: Building a Pipeline to go from Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Kelley Gable: A Strategic Approach to Success in Dual Markets full 1037 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kelley Gable: Today, with Kelley Gable of Gable Interior Designers, we dive deep into the world of niche marketing and luxury coastal design. Kelley shares her journey of redefining coastal aesthetics, moving beyond cliché beach motifs to create sophisticated, contemporary interiors. We explore her unique business model of serving clients with homes in both urban areas and coastal Delaware, and how she's structured her team to support this dual-location approach. Kelley offers valuable insights on educating clients about modern coastal design, building strategic partnerships with builders, and creating targeted marketing strategies. We also discuss her hiring process for different roles across her two offices, providing practical advice for growing a design team. Whether you're looking to carve out your own niche or expand your business across multiple locations, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on positioning your design business for success. LuAnn Nigara and Kelley Gable's Ah-Ha Moments “When hiring, you attract what you put out, so it’s important to attract people who see your vision and what to drink your “Kool-Aid, rather than just hiring too quickly,” - Kelley Gable “Relationship building blocks are the foundation for how you can get into a new market,” - Kelley Gable More About Kelley Gable Owner & Principal Designer, Kelley Gable, was born and raised in Maryland and currently shares her time between the shores of coastal Delaware in Rehoboth Beach and Severna Park, Maryland with her husband and two children. Kelley's distinct style can be described as clean, functional and open. She finds beauty in blending her traditional East Coast roots with a casual California lifestyle inspired by laid-back living. With a background in merchandising and design, Kelley brings her ability to marry style and function in each space. Connect with Kelley Gable Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University - Registration Open! Other Shows: #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter #887: Power Talk Friday: Renee Bush: Bringing the Spark Back Into Your Interior Design Business #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche #988: On Air Strategy Sessions: Cassandra Thurston: Building a Pipeline to go from Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Today With Kelley Gable:

Today, with Kelley Gable of Gable Interior Designers, we dive deep into the world of niche marketing and luxury coastal design. Kelley shares her journey of redefining coastal aesthetics, moving beyond cliché beach motifs to create sophisticated, contemporary interiors. We explore her unique business model of serving clients with homes in both urban areas and coastal Delaware, and how she's structured her team to support this dual-location approach. Kelley offers valuable insights on educating clients about modern coastal design, building strategic partnerships with builders, and creating targeted marketing strategies. We also discuss her hiring process for different roles across her two offices, providing practical advice for growing a design team. Whether you're looking to carve out your own niche or expand your business across multiple locations, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on positioning your design business for success.

LuAnn Nigara and Kelley Gable's Ah-Ha Moments

“When hiring, you attract what you put out, so it’s important to attract people who see your vision and what to drink your “Kool-Aid, rather than just hiring too quickly,” - Kelley Gable

“Relationship building blocks are the foundation for how you can get into a new market,” - Kelley Gable

More About Kelley Gable

Owner & Principal Designer, Kelley Gable, was born and raised in Maryland and currently shares her time between the shores of coastal Delaware in Rehoboth Beach and Severna Park, Maryland with her husband and two children.

Kelley's distinct style can be described as clean, functional and open. She finds beauty in blending her traditional East Coast roots with a casual California lifestyle inspired by laid-back living. With a background in merchandising and design, Kelley brings her ability to marry style and function in each space.

Connect with Kelley Gable

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University - Registration Open!

Other Shows:

#851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter

#887: Power Talk Friday: Renee Bush: Bringing the Spark Back Into Your Interior Design Business

#982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients

#987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche

#988: On Air Strategy Sessions: Cassandra Thurston: Building a Pipeline to go from Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

]]> 3518 no 1036: Karen Post: A Personal Conversation on Turning Setbacks into Success Today With Karen Post: Today with Karen Post, we dive deep into her journey of transforming Home Frosting from a staging company into a thriving interior design firm. Karen shares her experience of making a major business pivot while managing complex personal and financial challenges, including significant business loans and partnerships. As a former member of my Chairman of the Board program, Karen offers candid insights about finding the courage to change direction when your current path isn't bringing you joy, even if you've invested heavily in it. She discusses practical considerations like negotiating flexible lease terms and managing inventory, while also sharing how this business transformation ultimately strengthened both her professional success and personal relationships. This episode is a masterclass in strategic pivoting and the importance of aligning your business with your true passions. LuAnn Nigara and Karen Post's Ah-Ha Moments “You can’t change anybody else, you can just change your reaction to it.” - LuAnn “When [you’re] getting funding, you need to think about the worst case scenario. If the story changes, do these details impact you?” - Karen “When you sign your lease, make sure if you're committing to a big space that you've got flexibility and if you change course, you're not stuck with that.” - Karen More About Karen Post Karen Post – president and lead designer of Home Frosting. Karen is an ever evolving, forever learning entrepreneur. She started her career in visual merchandising, then developed into marketing as an agency owner, international speaker and twice published author and today is an accomplished designer and thought leader. As a design professional she founded Home Frosting as a luxury staging company in 2016 (without any formal training in staging or interiors) and in 2021 pivoted, twirled and found her true happy spot as a top design firm leader in Tampa, Florida. Connect with Karen Post Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Houzz YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey LuAnn University - Registration Open! Other Shows: WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara AWDB #973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Karen Post: A Personal Conversation on Turning Setbacks into Success full 1036 LuAnn Nigara Today With Karen Post: Today with Karen Post, we dive deep into her journey of transforming Home Frosting from a staging company into a thriving interior design firm. Karen shares her experience of making a major business pivot while managing complex personal and financial challenges, including significant business loans and partnerships. As a former member of my Chairman of the Board program, Karen offers candid insights about finding the courage to change direction when your current path isn't bringing you joy, even if you've invested heavily in it. She discusses practical considerations like negotiating flexible lease terms and managing inventory, while also sharing how this business transformation ultimately strengthened both her professional success and personal relationships. This episode is a masterclass in strategic pivoting and the importance of aligning your business with your true passions. LuAnn Nigara and Karen Post's Ah-Ha Moments “You can’t change anybody else, you can just change your reaction to it.” - LuAnn “When [you’re] getting funding, you need to think about the worst case scenario. If the story changes, do these details impact you?” - Karen “When you sign your lease, make sure if you're committing to a big space that you've got flexibility and if you change course, you're not stuck with that.” - Karen More About Karen Post Karen Post – president and lead designer of Home Frosting. Karen is an ever evolving, forever learning entrepreneur. She started her career in visual merchandising, then developed into marketing as an agency owner, international speaker and twice published author and today is an accomplished designer and thought leader. As a design professional she founded Home Frosting as a luxury staging company in 2016 (without any formal training in staging or interiors) and in 2021 pivoted, twirled and found her true happy spot as a top design firm leader in Tampa, Florida. Connect with Karen Post Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Houzz YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey LuAnn University - Registration Open! Other Shows: WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara AWDB #973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb Today With Karen Post:

Today with Karen Post, we dive deep into her journey of transforming Home Frosting from a staging company into a thriving interior design firm. Karen shares her experience of making a major business pivot while managing complex personal and financial challenges, including significant business loans and partnerships. As a former member of my Chairman of the Board program, Karen offers candid insights about finding the courage to change direction when your current path isn't bringing you joy, even if you've invested heavily in it. She discusses practical considerations like negotiating flexible lease terms and managing inventory, while also sharing how this business transformation ultimately strengthened both her professional success and personal relationships. This episode is a masterclass in strategic pivoting and the importance of aligning your business with your true passions.

LuAnn Nigara and Karen Post's Ah-Ha Moments

“You can’t change anybody else, you can just change your reaction to it.” - LuAnn

“When [you’re] getting funding, you need to think about the worst case scenario. If the story changes, do these details impact you?” - Karen

“When you sign your lease, make sure if you're committing to a big space that you've got flexibility and if you change course, you're not stuck with that.” - Karen

More About Karen Post

Karen Post – president and lead designer of Home Frosting. Karen is an ever evolving, forever learning entrepreneur. She started her career in visual merchandising, then developed into marketing as an agency owner, international speaker and twice published author and today is an accomplished designer and thought leader.

As a design professional she founded Home Frosting as a luxury staging company in 2016 (without any formal training in staging or interiors) and in 2021 pivoted, twirled and found her true happy spot as a top design firm leader in Tampa, Florida.

Connect with Karen Post

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Houzz

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey

LuAnn University - Registration Open!

Other Shows:

WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell?

AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara

AWDB #973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

]]> 4244 no 1035: Lindsay Hunter: The Equestrian Interior Designer: Getting Ultra-Specific with Your Niche Today With Lindsay Hunter: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’ve been listening to the show for any amount of time, you’ve heard me tell you to niche at least a dozen times. So…if you haven’t niched…what’s holding you back? My guest today, Lindsay Hunter, probably had all of those same fears. But she also had a passion—and she turned that passion into a profitable, thriving niche as the equestrian interior designer. Today, she’s sharing her story—and how niching opened up doors for her that never would have opened up otherwise. LuAnn Nigara and Lindsay Hunter's Ah-Ha Moments “Thank you for inspiring me to niche my business and to put my horse back on my website and be authentic and myself and feel like I can show up to client meetings in my barn boots.” -Lindsay “What’s meaningful and being passionately attached to something are two very different things. When you're really super niched like equestrian design, you can't fake that. You can’t say you’re an equestrian designer when you haven’t even been in a tack room.” -LuAnn More About Lindsay Hunter Lindsay Hunter combines her enthusiasm for interior design with her passion for the equestrian lifestyle to create intentional, inspirational living spaces for people from all walks of life. Past clients appreciate her attention to detail and her ability to bring the best out of any space, no matter how large or small. Lindsay brings a wealth of knowledge, insightful understanding, and elevated scope to every project because she understands why a house should feel less like a building and more like an extension of your life, identity, and passions. Now based in San Diego, CA, interior designer Lindsay Hunter graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History. After an intensive study in art and architecture in Bologna, Italy, Lindsay went on to pursue her studies in Interior Design at Santa Barbara City College where she met the stringent educational requirements necessary to receive her certification in June 2009. Connect with Lindsay Hunter Lindsay Hunter Design Instagram  Luxury Equestrian Network Instagram Magazine What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey Other Shows: AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche AWDB #896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB 759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Tue, 12 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Lindsay Hunter: The Equestrian Interior Designer: Getting Ultra-Specific with Your Niche full 1035 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lindsay Hunter: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’ve been listening to the show for any amount of time, you’ve heard me tell you to niche at least a dozen times. So…if you haven’t niched…what’s holding you back? My guest today, Lindsay Hunter, probably had all of those same fears. But she also had a passion—and she turned that passion into a profitable, thriving niche as the equestrian interior designer. Today, she’s sharing her story—and how niching opened up doors for her that never would have opened up otherwise. LuAnn Nigara and Lindsay Hunter's Ah-Ha Moments “Thank you for inspiring me to niche my business and to put my horse back on my website and be authentic and myself and feel like I can show up to client meetings in my barn boots.” -Lindsay “What’s meaningful and being passionately attached to something are two very different things. When you're really super niched like equestrian design, you can't fake that. You can’t say you’re an equestrian designer when you haven’t even been in a tack room.” -LuAnn More About Lindsay Hunter Lindsay Hunter combines her enthusiasm for interior design with her passion for the equestrian lifestyle to create intentional, inspirational living spaces for people from all walks of life. Past clients appreciate her attention to detail and her ability to bring the best out of any space, no matter how large or small. Lindsay brings a wealth of knowledge, insightful understanding, and elevated scope to every project because she understands why a house should feel less like a building and more like an extension of your life, identity, and passions. Now based in San Diego, CA, interior designer Lindsay Hunter graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History. After an intensive study in art and architecture in Bologna, Italy, Lindsay went on to pursue her studies in Interior Design at Santa Barbara City College where she met the stringent educational requirements necessary to receive her certification in June 2009. Connect with Lindsay Hunter Lindsay Hunter Design Instagram  Luxury Equestrian Network Instagram Magazine What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey Other Shows: AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche AWDB #896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB 759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Today With Lindsay Hunter:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’ve been listening to the show for any amount of time, you’ve heard me tell you to niche at least a dozen times. So…if you haven’t niched…what’s holding you back?

My guest today, Lindsay Hunter, probably had all of those same fears. But she also had a passion—and she turned that passion into a profitable, thriving niche as the equestrian interior designer.

Today, she’s sharing her story—and how niching opened up doors for her that never would have opened up otherwise.

LuAnn Nigara and Lindsay Hunter's Ah-Ha Moments

“Thank you for inspiring me to niche my business and to put my horse back on my website and be authentic and myself and feel like I can show up to client meetings in my barn boots.” -Lindsay

“What’s meaningful and being passionately attached to something are two very different things. When you're really super niched like equestrian design, you can't fake that. You can’t say you’re an equestrian designer when you haven’t even been in a tack room.” -LuAnn

More About Lindsay Hunter

Lindsay Hunter combines her enthusiasm for interior design with her passion for the equestrian lifestyle to create intentional, inspirational living spaces for people from all walks of life. Past clients appreciate her attention to detail and her ability to bring the best out of any space, no matter how large or small. Lindsay brings a wealth of knowledge, insightful understanding, and elevated scope to every project because she understands why a house should feel less like a building and more like an extension of your life, identity, and passions.

Now based in San Diego, CA, interior designer Lindsay Hunter graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History. After an intensive study in art and architecture in Bologna, Italy, Lindsay went on to pursue her studies in Interior Design at Santa Barbara City College where she met the stringent educational requirements necessary to receive her certification in June 2009.

Connect with Lindsay Hunter

Lindsay Hunter Design

Instagram 

Luxury Equestrian Network

Instagram

Magazine

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Other Shows:

AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done

AWDB #991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design

AWDB #987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche

AWDB #896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris

AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business

AWDB 759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

AWDB #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

]]> 5501 no 1034: Donna Hoffman: Lean into Your Strengths to Create Success Today With Donna Hoffman: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers struggle with harnessing their sensitivity in business, often seeing it as a weakness rather than a strength. My guest today is interior designer and business coach Donna Hoffman, sharing her journey from launching a luxury design firm during the 2008 recession to building a 7-figure, award-winning business. Donna, the founder of Impeccably Designed Homes and creator of the Successful Design Biz Academy, has developed a unique approach she calls "Success Momentum." Donna emphasizes the importance of leaning into your Creative Nature and reveals how embracing sensitivity can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how our design superpowers can sometimes be our business Achilles' heel, along with strategies for turning these potential weaknesses into strengths. LuAnn Nigara and Donna Hoffman's Ah-Ha Moments “For creative brains, that thing that makes us great at what we do is almost always our downfall in business,” - Donna Hoffman “I could teach you the greatest strategies in business, but if you don't have the fortitude in your constitution to be able to apply them, big whoop. It doesn't amount to anything,” - Donna Hoffman More About Donna Hoffman Despite launching her luxury interior design business during the crushing 2008 recession, this design entrepreneur leads her team to award-winning design across the US, as a 7-figure-sized business. Beyond creative and business acumen, Donna is also a leading Interior Design Business Coach. She specializes in teaching design entrepreneurs to lean into their Creative Nature, unleashing what she calls Success Momentum. “Joined with key revenue-driving-strategic business practices, this combo fuels powerful growth for my designers,” says Hoffman. Donna has also helped thousands of DIY design lovers to beautify their homes through her info-rich online courses. Connect with Donna Hoffman Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Donna’s Free Guide “Irresistible Sales Lingo For Interior Designer’s Who Want To WOW Clients” What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design BADG & Cooper Hewitt Event Info & Link to Reserve Tickets! Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity AWDB #635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success AWDB #614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business Fri, 08 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Donna Hoffman: Lean into Your Strengths to Create Success full 1034 LuAnn Nigara Today With Donna Hoffman: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers struggle with harnessing their sensitivity in business, often seeing it as a weakness rather than a strength. My guest today is interior designer and business coach Donna Hoffman, sharing her journey from launching a luxury design firm during the 2008 recession to building a 7-figure, award-winning business. Donna, the founder of Impeccably Designed Homes and creator of the Successful Design Biz Academy, has developed a unique approach she calls "Success Momentum." Donna emphasizes the importance of leaning into your Creative Nature and reveals how embracing sensitivity can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how our design superpowers can sometimes be our business Achilles' heel, along with strategies for turning these potential weaknesses into strengths. LuAnn Nigara and Donna Hoffman's Ah-Ha Moments “For creative brains, that thing that makes us great at what we do is almost always our downfall in business,” - Donna Hoffman “I could teach you the greatest strategies in business, but if you don't have the fortitude in your constitution to be able to apply them, big whoop. It doesn't amount to anything,” - Donna Hoffman More About Donna Hoffman Despite launching her luxury interior design business during the crushing 2008 recession, this design entrepreneur leads her team to award-winning design across the US, as a 7-figure-sized business. Beyond creative and business acumen, Donna is also a leading Interior Design Business Coach. She specializes in teaching design entrepreneurs to lean into their Creative Nature, unleashing what she calls Success Momentum. “Joined with key revenue-driving-strategic business practices, this combo fuels powerful growth for my designers,” says Hoffman. Donna has also helped thousands of DIY design lovers to beautify their homes through her info-rich online courses. Connect with Donna Hoffman Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Donna’s Free Guide “Irresistible Sales Lingo For Interior Designer’s Who Want To WOW Clients” What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design BADG & Cooper Hewitt Event Info & Link to Reserve Tickets! Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity AWDB #635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success AWDB #614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business Today With Donna Hoffman:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers struggle with harnessing their sensitivity in business, often seeing it as a weakness rather than a strength.

My guest today is interior designer and business coach Donna Hoffman, sharing her journey from launching a luxury design firm during the 2008 recession to building a 7-figure, award-winning business. Donna, the founder of Impeccably Designed Homes and creator of the Successful Design Biz Academy, has developed a unique approach she calls "Success Momentum."

Donna emphasizes the importance of leaning into your Creative Nature and reveals how embracing sensitivity can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how our design superpowers can sometimes be our business Achilles' heel, along with strategies for turning these potential weaknesses into strengths.

LuAnn Nigara and Donna Hoffman's Ah-Ha Moments

“For creative brains, that thing that makes us great at what we do is almost always our downfall in business,” - Donna Hoffman

“I could teach you the greatest strategies in business, but if you don't have the fortitude in your constitution to be able to apply them, big whoop. It doesn't amount to anything,” - Donna Hoffman

More About Donna Hoffman

Despite launching her luxury interior design business during the crushing 2008 recession, this design entrepreneur leads her team to award-winning design across the US, as a 7-figure-sized business.

Beyond creative and business acumen, Donna is also a leading Interior Design Business Coach. She specializes in teaching design entrepreneurs to lean into their Creative Nature, unleashing what she calls Success Momentum. “Joined with key revenue-driving-strategic business practices, this combo fuels powerful growth for my designers,” says Hoffman. Donna has also helped thousands of DIY design lovers to beautify their homes through her info-rich online courses.

Connect with Donna Hoffman

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Donna’s Free Guide “Irresistible Sales Lingo For Interior Designer’s Who Want To WOW Clients”

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

BADG & Cooper Hewitt Event Info & Link to Reserve Tickets!

Mydoma Studio

Other Shows:

AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

AWDB #635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design

AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success

AWDB #614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business

]]> 4176 no 1033: Ann Kottler: From Cold Calls to Custom Homes: How to Build Trust with Luxury Builders. Today With Ann Kottler: Today with Ann Kottler, we're learning all about designing for elite home builders and managing luxury residential projects. Ann is the founder and principal designer of her namesake firm based in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where she's established herself as the go-to expert for 7-8 figure new home construction and remodeling projects. In this episode, Ann shares her strategies for building strong relationships with custom home builders, mastering material selection, and creating comprehensive spec books. She reveals how her sales background has been crucial in positioning herself as an invaluable asset to both builders and clients. Ann also offers insights on embracing trades, establishing trust on job sites, and effectively translating complex building information to clients. LuAnn Nigara and Ann Kottler's Ah-Ha Moments “You really need to know your way around a job site. You really need to know how to read a blueprint. You need to understand an electrical plan. You need to understand the HVAC plan. You need to understand the window schedule, all of the things.” - Ann “I'm here to help you and make you look good and make this a positive experience for the homeowner.” - Ann “Your rate goes up because you are getting better. You're worth more” - LuAnn “I'm passionate about this and we're gonna have fun and you're gonna love it when it's done. That's the value that a professional designer provides. But you have to be confident in saying it.” - Ann More About Ann Kottler This Wisconsin girl had big shoes to fill. As a Business graduate from Marquette University in Milwaukee, I knew my dreams went beyond just business and into design. Thus back to school I went to the Illinois Institute of Art where I acquired my Residential Interior Design degree. I’ve been a professional designer for close to a decade now, and it’s been a lifelong passion. I love each and every project from remodeling bathrooms, to helping select materials for gorgeous Lake Geneva vacation retreats. As an interior designer, my goal is to always deliver a space that exceeds client expectations. That includes all phases of a project from concept to installation. My focus is You and our relationship—a relationship which reflects good listening on my part and also building trust so that you know I will deliver something beyond your wildest dreams or hopes. Connect with Ann Kottler Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey Other Shows: AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design AWDB #1018: Power Talk Friday: Connie Whitman: Heart-Centered Strategies to Successful Selling Tue, 05 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Ann Kottler: From Cold Calls to Custom Homes: How to Build Trust with Luxury Builders. full 1033 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ann Kottler: Today with Ann Kottler, we're learning all about designing for elite home builders and managing luxury residential projects. Ann is the founder and principal designer of her namesake firm based in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where she's established herself as the go-to expert for 7-8 figure new home construction and remodeling projects. In this episode, Ann shares her strategies for building strong relationships with custom home builders, mastering material selection, and creating comprehensive spec books. She reveals how her sales background has been crucial in positioning herself as an invaluable asset to both builders and clients. Ann also offers insights on embracing trades, establishing trust on job sites, and effectively translating complex building information to clients. LuAnn Nigara and Ann Kottler's Ah-Ha Moments “You really need to know your way around a job site. You really need to know how to read a blueprint. You need to understand an electrical plan. You need to understand the HVAC plan. You need to understand the window schedule, all of the things.” - Ann “I'm here to help you and make you look good and make this a positive experience for the homeowner.” - Ann “Your rate goes up because you are getting better. You're worth more” - LuAnn “I'm passionate about this and we're gonna have fun and you're gonna love it when it's done. That's the value that a professional designer provides. But you have to be confident in saying it.” - Ann More About Ann Kottler This Wisconsin girl had big shoes to fill. As a Business graduate from Marquette University in Milwaukee, I knew my dreams went beyond just business and into design. Thus back to school I went to the Illinois Institute of Art where I acquired my Residential Interior Design degree. I’ve been a professional designer for close to a decade now, and it’s been a lifelong passion. I love each and every project from remodeling bathrooms, to helping select materials for gorgeous Lake Geneva vacation retreats. As an interior designer, my goal is to always deliver a space that exceeds client expectations. That includes all phases of a project from concept to installation. My focus is You and our relationship—a relationship which reflects good listening on my part and also building trust so that you know I will deliver something beyond your wildest dreams or hopes. Connect with Ann Kottler Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey Other Shows: AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design AWDB #1018: Power Talk Friday: Connie Whitman: Heart-Centered Strategies to Successful Selling Today With Ann Kottler:

Today with Ann Kottler, we're learning all about designing for elite home builders and managing luxury residential projects. Ann is the founder and principal designer of her namesake firm based in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where she's established herself as the go-to expert for 7-8 figure new home construction and remodeling projects.

In this episode, Ann shares her strategies for building strong relationships with custom home builders, mastering material selection, and creating comprehensive spec books. She reveals how her sales background has been crucial in positioning herself as an invaluable asset to both builders and clients. Ann also offers insights on embracing trades, establishing trust on job sites, and effectively translating complex building information to clients.

LuAnn Nigara and Ann Kottler's Ah-Ha Moments

“You really need to know your way around a job site. You really need to know how to read a blueprint. You need to understand an electrical plan. You need to understand the HVAC plan. You need to understand the window schedule, all of the things.” - Ann

“I'm here to help you and make you look good and make this a positive experience for the homeowner.” - Ann

“Your rate goes up because you are getting better. You're worth more” - LuAnn

“I'm passionate about this and we're gonna have fun and you're gonna love it when it's done. That's the value that a professional designer provides. But you have to be confident in saying it.” - Ann

More About Ann Kottler

This Wisconsin girl had big shoes to fill. As a Business graduate from Marquette University in Milwaukee, I knew my dreams went beyond just business and into design. Thus back to school I went to the Illinois Institute of Art where I acquired my Residential Interior Design degree. I’ve been a professional designer for close to a decade now, and it’s been a lifelong passion. I love each and every project from remodeling bathrooms, to helping select materials for gorgeous Lake Geneva vacation retreats.

As an interior designer, my goal is to always deliver a space that exceeds client expectations. That includes all phases of a project from concept to installation. My focus is You and our relationship—a relationship which reflects good listening on my part and also building trust so that you know I will deliver something beyond your wildest dreams or hopes.

Connect with Ann Kottler

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Other Shows:

AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

AWDB #1018: Power Talk Friday: Connie Whitman: Heart-Centered Strategies to Successful Selling

]]> 4090 no 1032: Power Talk Friday: Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz: The Four Growth Markers of Successful Businesses Today With Shayna Pellino: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. If you're feeling stuck in your business, wondering how to make that crucial transition from being self-employed to running a true business, this episode is for you. My guest today, Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz, has identified clear growth markers in the journey of interior design business owners. Through her work with designers - about 20 new conversations every month - she's noticed a common thread: many are stuck in Growth Marker 1, doing everything themselves. Today, she's breaking down what it takes to move beyond that stage, sharing her hybrid pricing approach, and most importantly, helping you understand if you're ready for that transition. But here's the thing - before she tells you how to fix it, Shayna emphasizes that you have to be ready for it and actually want it. It's about more than just implementing new systems; it's about fundamentally changing how you operate your business. LuAnn Nigara and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments “It really just simply comes down to if you want to run a business, you have to have clean processes and systems so you can step away and they can run themselves,” - Shayna Pellino “There isn’t one technology out there that is going to solve every piece of this process. It doesn't really matter how you get things done. As long as we carve it out, it's consistent, and other people know exactly how it gets done,” -Shayna Pellino More About Shayna Pellino Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry. Connect with Shayna Pellino 4Dbiz - Special Offer for Listeners Website Facebook  Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #923: Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business AWDB #990: Power Talk Friday: 4DBiz: An Executive Team for Your Interior Design Business Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz: The Four Growth Markers of Successful Businesses full 1032 LuAnn Nigara Today With Shayna Pellino: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. If you're feeling stuck in your business, wondering how to make that crucial transition from being self-employed to running a true business, this episode is for you. My guest today, Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz, has identified clear growth markers in the journey of interior design business owners. Through her work with designers - about 20 new conversations every month - she's noticed a common thread: many are stuck in Growth Marker 1, doing everything themselves. Today, she's breaking down what it takes to move beyond that stage, sharing her hybrid pricing approach, and most importantly, helping you understand if you're ready for that transition. But here's the thing - before she tells you how to fix it, Shayna emphasizes that you have to be ready for it and actually want it. It's about more than just implementing new systems; it's about fundamentally changing how you operate your business. LuAnn Nigara and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments “It really just simply comes down to if you want to run a business, you have to have clean processes and systems so you can step away and they can run themselves,” - Shayna Pellino “There isn’t one technology out there that is going to solve every piece of this process. It doesn't really matter how you get things done. As long as we carve it out, it's consistent, and other people know exactly how it gets done,” -Shayna Pellino More About Shayna Pellino Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry. Connect with Shayna Pellino 4Dbiz - Special Offer for Listeners Website Facebook  Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #923: Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business AWDB #990: Power Talk Friday: 4DBiz: An Executive Team for Your Interior Design Business Today With Shayna Pellino:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. If you're feeling stuck in your business, wondering how to make that crucial transition from being self-employed to running a true business, this episode is for you.

My guest today, Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz, has identified clear growth markers in the journey of interior design business owners. Through her work with designers - about 20 new conversations every month - she's noticed a common thread: many are stuck in Growth Marker 1, doing everything themselves. Today, she's breaking down what it takes to move beyond that stage, sharing her hybrid pricing approach, and most importantly, helping you understand if you're ready for that transition.

But here's the thing - before she tells you how to fix it, Shayna emphasizes that you have to be ready for it and actually want it. It's about more than just implementing new systems; it's about fundamentally changing how you operate your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments

“It really just simply comes down to if you want to run a business, you have to have clean processes and systems so you can step away and they can run themselves,” - Shayna Pellino

“There isn’t one technology out there that is going to solve every piece of this process. It doesn't really matter how you get things done. As long as we carve it out, it's consistent, and other people know exactly how it gets done,” -Shayna Pellino

More About Shayna Pellino

Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner.

After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard.

In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry.

Connect with Shayna Pellino

4Dbiz - Special Offer for Listeners

Website

Facebook 

Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors

Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio

Other Shows:

AWDB #923: Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #990: Power Talk Friday: 4DBiz: An Executive Team for Your Interior Design Business

]]> 4431 no 1031: Dan Mazzarini: Empowering Your Interior Design Team to Succeed Today With Dan Mazzarini: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you think about the future of your firm, what do you envision? Are you going to stay small? Or do you hope to grow your team?  There’s no right or wrong answer. Different business owners have different goals. But if you do want to build a team, you have to learn how to lead efficiently, create strong processes, and cultivate the right team culture.  My guest today, Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM desig, knows what it takes to manage a large team.  On their website, BHDM design describes itself as a creative collective of designers, architects, artists, and illustrators—and they truly do approach their projects from this collective, collaborative perspective. Dan has worked hard to establish that collective—and today, he’s here to share how. LuAnn Nigara and Dan Mazzarini's Ah-Ha Moments “With clarity comes confidence.” -Dan “Having good partners in leadership, having trusted voices in the room, has helped me make decisions around the business on things that we do or don’t do and ways that we do or don’t grow the business.” -Dan “You’re not angsting over not designing or having to manage people. It feels like what you’re saying is you find, connect with, and enjoy the parts in two very different roles—being creative and being the head of the company.” LuAnn More About Dan Mazzarini With a background in branding and retail design, Dan Mazzarini has an unique design capability to adapt to each client’s personal narrative and needs, never staying stagnant on one look. For 10 years, his designs helped define such brands as Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Waterworks, Movado and more. Since launching BHDM in 2012, Mazzarini has parlayed his craft of storytelling through the built environment to a multitude of project types, including hotels, restaurants, food halls, start ups, corporate interiors, showrooms, pop-ups, and single and multi-family residential. He has worked in historic spaces like Grand Central Terminal and the Harvard Club of New York, and helped to create new concepts for Google, One Medical, Hudson’s Bay Company, and Target. Through the years he’s worked to enrich heritage brands such as Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, and Calvin Klein, and define new brands like Tend, Real, and Casper. Connect with Dan Mazzarini BHMD Design Archive By Dan Mazzarini Instagram BHMD Design Instagram Archive By Dan Mazzarini What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Hiring Toolkit Bundle Chairman Of the Board with LuAnn Nigara Other Shows: WTFP #227 Rebecca Munster: The Art of Effective Organizational Development AWDB #757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Tue, 29 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Dan Mazzarini: Empowering Your Interior Design Team to Succeed full 1031 LuAnn Nigara Today With Dan Mazzarini: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you think about the future of your firm, what do you envision? Are you going to stay small? Or do you hope to grow your team?  There’s no right or wrong answer. Different business owners have different goals. But if you do want to build a team, you have to learn how to lead efficiently, create strong processes, and cultivate the right team culture.  My guest today, Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM desig, knows what it takes to manage a large team.  On their website, BHDM design describes itself as a creative collective of designers, architects, artists, and illustrators—and they truly do approach their projects from this collective, collaborative perspective. Dan has worked hard to establish that collective—and today, he’s here to share how. LuAnn Nigara and Dan Mazzarini's Ah-Ha Moments “With clarity comes confidence.” -Dan “Having good partners in leadership, having trusted voices in the room, has helped me make decisions around the business on things that we do or don’t do and ways that we do or don’t grow the business.” -Dan “You’re not angsting over not designing or having to manage people. It feels like what you’re saying is you find, connect with, and enjoy the parts in two very different roles—being creative and being the head of the company.” LuAnn More About Dan Mazzarini With a background in branding and retail design, Dan Mazzarini has an unique design capability to adapt to each client’s personal narrative and needs, never staying stagnant on one look. For 10 years, his designs helped define such brands as Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Waterworks, Movado and more. Since launching BHDM in 2012, Mazzarini has parlayed his craft of storytelling through the built environment to a multitude of project types, including hotels, restaurants, food halls, start ups, corporate interiors, showrooms, pop-ups, and single and multi-family residential. He has worked in historic spaces like Grand Central Terminal and the Harvard Club of New York, and helped to create new concepts for Google, One Medical, Hudson’s Bay Company, and Target. Through the years he’s worked to enrich heritage brands such as Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, and Calvin Klein, and define new brands like Tend, Real, and Casper. Connect with Dan Mazzarini BHMD Design Archive By Dan Mazzarini Instagram BHMD Design Instagram Archive By Dan Mazzarini What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Hiring Toolkit Bundle Chairman Of the Board with LuAnn Nigara Other Shows: WTFP #227 Rebecca Munster: The Art of Effective Organizational Development AWDB #757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Today With Dan Mazzarini:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you think about the future of your firm, what do you envision? Are you going to stay small? Or do you hope to grow your team? 

There’s no right or wrong answer. Different business owners have different goals. But if you do want to build a team, you have to learn how to lead efficiently, create strong processes, and cultivate the right team culture. 

My guest today, Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM desig, knows what it takes to manage a large team. 

On their website, BHDM design describes itself as a creative collective of designers, architects, artists, and illustrators—and they truly do approach their projects from this collective, collaborative perspective. Dan has worked hard to establish that collective—and today, he’s here to share how.

LuAnn Nigara and Dan Mazzarini's Ah-Ha Moments

“With clarity comes confidence.” -Dan

“Having good partners in leadership, having trusted voices in the room, has helped me make decisions around the business on things that we do or don’t do and ways that we do or don’t grow the business.” -Dan

“You’re not angsting over not designing or having to manage people. It feels like what you’re saying is you find, connect with, and enjoy the parts in two very different roles—being creative and being the head of the company.” LuAnn

More About Dan Mazzarini

With a background in branding and retail design, Dan Mazzarini has an unique design capability to adapt to each client’s personal narrative and needs, never staying stagnant on one look. For 10 years, his designs helped define such brands as Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Waterworks, Movado and more.

Since launching BHDM in 2012, Mazzarini has parlayed his craft of storytelling through the built environment to a multitude of project types, including hotels, restaurants, food halls, start ups, corporate interiors, showrooms, pop-ups, and single and multi-family residential. He has worked in historic spaces like Grand Central Terminal and the Harvard Club of New York, and helped to create new concepts for Google, One Medical, Hudson’s Bay Company, and Target. Through the years he’s worked to enrich heritage brands such as Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, and Calvin Klein, and define new brands like Tend, Real, and Casper.

Connect with Dan Mazzarini

BHMD Design

Archive By Dan Mazzarini

Instagram BHMD Design

Instagram Archive By Dan Mazzarini

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Chairman Of the Board with LuAnn Nigara

Other Shows:

WTFP #227 Rebecca Munster: The Art of Effective Organizational Development

AWDB #757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative

AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 3777 no 1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling Today With Kate O’Hara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kate O'Hara to dive into the fascinating distinctions between growth-focused and scale-focused entrepreneurs. With her unique perspective as both a founder and a second-generation business owner, Kate shares invaluable insights on how mindset shifts are crucial as businesses evolve. We discuss the importance of balancing sales drive with effective processes, the challenges of scaling, and the need for strong management structures. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or leading a growing team, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate your business journey. Tune in to discover how to shift your mindset and strategies for sustainable success! More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace this fall in Basking Ridge, New Jersey HPMKT this October 25th, 2024 co-hosted by Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Fri, 25 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling full 1030 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate O’Hara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kate O'Hara to dive into the fascinating distinctions between growth-focused and scale-focused entrepreneurs. With her unique perspective as both a founder and a second-generation business owner, Kate shares invaluable insights on how mindset shifts are crucial as businesses evolve. We discuss the importance of balancing sales drive with effective processes, the challenges of scaling, and the need for strong management structures. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or leading a growing team, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate your business journey. Tune in to discover how to shift your mindset and strategies for sustainable success! More About Kate O’Hara Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines. Connect with Kate O’Hara Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Houzz LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Kravet Workspace this fall in Basking Ridge, New Jersey HPMKT this October 25th, 2024 co-hosted by Mydoma Studio Other Shows: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso Today With Kate O’Hara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kate O'Hara to dive into the fascinating distinctions between growth-focused and scale-focused entrepreneurs. With her unique perspective as both a founder and a second-generation business owner, Kate shares invaluable insights on how mindset shifts are crucial as businesses evolve.

We discuss the importance of balancing sales drive with effective processes, the challenges of scaling, and the need for strong management structures. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or leading a growing team, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate your business journey. Tune in to discover how to shift your mindset and strategies for sustainable success!

More About Kate O’Hara

Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines.

Connect with Kate O’Hara

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Houzz

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Kravet Workspace this fall in Basking Ridge, New Jersey

HPMKT this October 25th, 2024 co-hosted by Mydoma Studio

Other Shows:

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

]]> 4316 no 1029: Kelly O’Neil: Building Relationships with Builders Today With Kelly O’Neil: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have heard from so many of you interested in design-build—and most importantly, how to start building those relationships that bring you into the industry and position you as a go-to trusted designer.  My guest today, Kelly O’Neil, has a lot of insight to share on that topic. She has cultivated strong relationships with builders, found ways to prove her value, and used processes not just in her design, but even in the way she networks and builds relationships. Today, she’s here to share how she did it and what she learned along the way. LuAnn Nigara and Kelly O’Neil's Ah-Ha Moments “You have to handle both sides, the client and the builder, and keep both sides happy. But sometimes their lack of communication with each other puts you in the middle. So you find a way to smooth everybody out and make everybody happy.” -Kelly “I love that you know that it's the value of always keeping the pipeline going. You can't just rely on what happened last week, last month, last year. You've always got to be building it.” -LuAnn More About Kelly O’Neil In the ever-evolving world of design, one name stands out – Kelly, the creative force behind Kelly O’Neil Design. With a mantra of “I’m in the business of making people happy,” Kelly has carved a niche for herself in the industry, transforming spaces into beautiful, functional homes that reflect the unique style and personality of each client. Kelly’s journey in interior design began at Fairfield University, where she honed her skills and cultivated a passion that would propel her to create stunning homes across eight different states. From the vibrant energy of Florida to the cosmopolitan charm of New York, Kelly has left her mark, crafting spaces that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality. Connect with Kelly O’Neil Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! Power Talk Friday Tour – October 25th! Other Shows: #451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years #951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects #878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #281: What Would Lu Do?: Being the CEO – The Key to Your Business Success Tue, 22 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Kelly O’Neil: Building Relationships with Builders full 1029 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kelly O’Neil: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have heard from so many of you interested in design-build—and most importantly, how to start building those relationships that bring you into the industry and position you as a go-to trusted designer.  My guest today, Kelly O’Neil, has a lot of insight to share on that topic. She has cultivated strong relationships with builders, found ways to prove her value, and used processes not just in her design, but even in the way she networks and builds relationships. Today, she’s here to share how she did it and what she learned along the way. LuAnn Nigara and Kelly O’Neil's Ah-Ha Moments “You have to handle both sides, the client and the builder, and keep both sides happy. But sometimes their lack of communication with each other puts you in the middle. So you find a way to smooth everybody out and make everybody happy.” -Kelly “I love that you know that it's the value of always keeping the pipeline going. You can't just rely on what happened last week, last month, last year. You've always got to be building it.” -LuAnn More About Kelly O’Neil In the ever-evolving world of design, one name stands out – Kelly, the creative force behind Kelly O’Neil Design. With a mantra of “I’m in the business of making people happy,” Kelly has carved a niche for herself in the industry, transforming spaces into beautiful, functional homes that reflect the unique style and personality of each client. Kelly’s journey in interior design began at Fairfield University, where she honed her skills and cultivated a passion that would propel her to create stunning homes across eight different states. From the vibrant energy of Florida to the cosmopolitan charm of New York, Kelly has left her mark, crafting spaces that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality. Connect with Kelly O’Neil Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! Power Talk Friday Tour – October 25th! Other Shows: #451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years #951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects #878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #281: What Would Lu Do?: Being the CEO – The Key to Your Business Success Today With Kelly O’Neil:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have heard from so many of you interested in design-build—and most importantly, how to start building those relationships that bring you into the industry and position you as a go-to trusted designer. 

My guest today, Kelly O’Neil, has a lot of insight to share on that topic. She has cultivated strong relationships with builders, found ways to prove her value, and used processes not just in her design, but even in the way she networks and builds relationships. Today, she’s here to share how she did it and what she learned along the way.

LuAnn Nigara and Kelly O’Neil's Ah-Ha Moments

“You have to handle both sides, the client and the builder, and keep both sides happy. But sometimes their lack of communication with each other puts you in the middle. So you find a way to smooth everybody out and make everybody happy.” -Kelly

“I love that you know that it's the value of always keeping the pipeline going. You can't just rely on what happened last week, last month, last year. You've always got to be building it.” -LuAnn

More About Kelly O’Neil

In the ever-evolving world of design, one name stands out – Kelly, the creative force behind Kelly O’Neil Design. With a mantra of “I’m in the business of making people happy,” Kelly has carved a niche for herself in the industry, transforming spaces into beautiful, functional homes that reflect the unique style and personality of each client.

Kelly’s journey in interior design began at Fairfield University, where she honed her skills and cultivated a passion that would propel her to create stunning homes across eight different states. From the vibrant energy of Florida to the cosmopolitan charm of New York, Kelly has left her mark, crafting spaces that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality.

Connect with Kelly O’Neil

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders!

Power Talk Friday Tour – October 25th!

Other Shows:

#451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years

#951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects

#878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#281: What Would Lu Do?: Being the CEO – The Key to Your Business Success

]]> 4329 no 1028: Power Talk Friday: Kristi Hopper: When Trust Is Shattered Today With Kristi Hopper: Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, Kristi Hopper shares a deeply personal and challenging experience as we talk about a situation that, sadly, has happened to others before: to discover that a long-trusted employee had been embezzling funds. Kristi bravely opens up about the emotional toll this betrayal took on her, the lessons learned, and the importance of implementing checks and balances in our businesses. Join us as we explore the realities of trust, the hard truths of small business ownership, and how we can protect ourselves from similar situations in the future. LuAnn Nigara and Kristi Hopper's Ah-Ha Moments "As small business owners, we wear many hats, but we must ensure that we have checks and balances in place." - Kristi Hopper "When it comes to finances, a two-person check system can save you from devastating losses." - LuAnn Nigara "Investing in oversight and proper systems ultimately saves you money and heartache." - Kristi Hopper "Talking openly about these experiences helps us learn and protect ourselves and our businesses." - Kristi Hopper More About Kristi Hopper Kristi Hopper is passionate about home and holds fast to the notion that design should be exceedingly personal. At the heart of her thriving 24 year-old interior design firm, is the simple-yet-profound belief that everyone should Love Where You Live.™ Kristi’s multi-disciplinary approach carries a signature intelligence and ingenuity. While her emphasis on the art of living is widely reflected in whole-home transformations, she possesses a holistic approach to design with residential and commercial projects, global vacation homes, product design and real estate. Kristi serves on the Signature Kitchen Suite Design Council, has a product line with Harp and Finial, and she enjoys partnerships with Cozy Earth, Geometry House and Kelly O’Neal. Kristi fosters relationships within the design industry and serves as a panel and keynote speaker at DMC, High Point Market, the Vacation Rental Summit and other design events. Kristi opened the doors to her Lewisville offices in 2022, where her team and office pups welcome clients in style. Kristi has garnered ASID and IDS awards and was deeply honored to be nominated a fourth time for an ART award. Kristi is a member of ASID, IDS and ART and serves her community with inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm. Kristi and her husband, John, have two grown children, a puppy named Daisy, and live in Coppell, Texas Connect with Kristi Hopper Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Fri, 18 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kristi Hopper: When Trust Is Shattered full 1028 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kristi Hopper: Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, Kristi Hopper shares a deeply personal and challenging experience as we talk about a situation that, sadly, has happened to others before: to discover that a long-trusted employee had been embezzling funds. Kristi bravely opens up about the emotional toll this betrayal took on her, the lessons learned, and the importance of implementing checks and balances in our businesses. Join us as we explore the realities of trust, the hard truths of small business ownership, and how we can protect ourselves from similar situations in the future. LuAnn Nigara and Kristi Hopper's Ah-Ha Moments "As small business owners, we wear many hats, but we must ensure that we have checks and balances in place." - Kristi Hopper "When it comes to finances, a two-person check system can save you from devastating losses." - LuAnn Nigara "Investing in oversight and proper systems ultimately saves you money and heartache." - Kristi Hopper "Talking openly about these experiences helps us learn and protect ourselves and our businesses." - Kristi Hopper More About Kristi Hopper Kristi Hopper is passionate about home and holds fast to the notion that design should be exceedingly personal. At the heart of her thriving 24 year-old interior design firm, is the simple-yet-profound belief that everyone should Love Where You Live.™ Kristi’s multi-disciplinary approach carries a signature intelligence and ingenuity. While her emphasis on the art of living is widely reflected in whole-home transformations, she possesses a holistic approach to design with residential and commercial projects, global vacation homes, product design and real estate. Kristi serves on the Signature Kitchen Suite Design Council, has a product line with Harp and Finial, and she enjoys partnerships with Cozy Earth, Geometry House and Kelly O’Neal. Kristi fosters relationships within the design industry and serves as a panel and keynote speaker at DMC, High Point Market, the Vacation Rental Summit and other design events. Kristi opened the doors to her Lewisville offices in 2022, where her team and office pups welcome clients in style. Kristi has garnered ASID and IDS awards and was deeply honored to be nominated a fourth time for an ART award. Kristi is a member of ASID, IDS and ART and serves her community with inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm. Kristi and her husband, John, have two grown children, a puppy named Daisy, and live in Coppell, Texas Connect with Kristi Hopper Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Today With Kristi Hopper:

Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, Kristi Hopper shares a deeply personal and challenging experience as we talk about a situation that, sadly, has happened to others before: to discover that a long-trusted employee had been embezzling funds. Kristi bravely opens up about the emotional toll this betrayal took on her, the lessons learned, and the importance of implementing checks and balances in our businesses. Join us as we explore the realities of trust, the hard truths of small business ownership, and how we can protect ourselves from similar situations in the future.

LuAnn Nigara and Kristi Hopper's Ah-Ha Moments

"As small business owners, we wear many hats, but we must ensure that we have checks and balances in place." - Kristi Hopper

"When it comes to finances, a two-person check system can save you from devastating losses." - LuAnn Nigara

"Investing in oversight and proper systems ultimately saves you money and heartache." - Kristi Hopper

"Talking openly about these experiences helps us learn and protect ourselves and our businesses." - Kristi Hopper

More About Kristi Hopper

Kristi Hopper is passionate about home and holds fast to the notion that design should be exceedingly personal. At the heart of her thriving 24 year-old interior design firm, is the simple-yet-profound belief that everyone should Love Where You Live.™

Kristi’s multi-disciplinary approach carries a signature intelligence and ingenuity.

While her emphasis on the art of living is widely reflected in whole-home transformations, she possesses a holistic approach to design with residential and commercial projects, global vacation homes, product design and real estate.

Kristi serves on the Signature Kitchen Suite Design Council, has a product line with Harp and Finial, and she enjoys partnerships with Cozy Earth, Geometry House and Kelly O’Neal. Kristi fosters relationships within the design industry and serves as a panel and keynote speaker at DMC, High Point Market, the Vacation Rental Summit and other design events. Kristi opened the doors to her Lewisville offices in 2022, where her team and office pups welcome clients in style.

Kristi has garnered ASID and IDS awards and was deeply honored to be nominated a fourth time for an ART award. Kristi is a member of ASID, IDS and ART and serves her community with inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm.

Kristi and her husband, John, have two grown children, a puppy named Daisy, and live in Coppell, Texas

Connect with Kristi Hopper

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th!

]]> 4430 no 1027: Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe: Striking the Balance: Creativity and Business Savvy in Their Interior Design Business Today With Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe: In this episode, I sit down with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe, the incredible sisters behind Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm serving the DMV area and beyond. Elle, the CEO and Principal Designer, brings over a decade of experience to the table, along with an MBA and a certificate in Women's Entrepreneurship from Cornell. Her sister Yvette, the Co-Founder and COO, is a licensed attorney and law professor who manages the firm's operations with her sharp analytical skills. Together, they share their journey of building a successful Black-owned, women-owned design business, discussing everything from the challenges they've faced to the importance of solid business processes. We dive into their approach to client management, pricing strategies, and the value of investing in professional photography and PR. LuAnn Nigara, Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe's Ah-Ha Moments “As we've like changed our process and honed it, it has gotten us to the right people…to the right personalities, because that's very important for us.” - Elle “If you don't want to make a mistake today, stay in bed. All right? Stay in bed because the rest of us are putting it on the line, and we're doing our best. But you know what? Our best isn't always good enough. Sometimes there are mistakes.” - LuAnn "Process is really important. And I think people underestimate the purpose or the value of process. And I think we, in the beginning, underestimated the value of process." - Yvette More About Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe We are Elle & Yvette, sisters and founders of Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm servicing the DMV area and beyond. We founded Décorelle in 2018 to fill a gap in the interior design market – one that often fails to capture the newlyweds who just bought their first home, the empty nesters who want to reimagine their nest, or the bachelor(ette) who is just starting life out. Over the years, we have mastered the art of marrying the luxury that is interior design and accessibility that does not compromise quality and functionality. Décorelle is a testament to our passion for interior design and unwavering belief that every individual deserves to experience the transformative power of a beautifully designed space. Connect with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe Website Instagram TikTok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Hiring Toolkit Bundle Mydoma Studio Duke Renders Other Shows: #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designer Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe: Striking the Balance: Creativity and Business Savvy in Their Interior Design Business full 1027 LuAnn Nigara Today With Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe: In this episode, I sit down with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe, the incredible sisters behind Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm serving the DMV area and beyond. Elle, the CEO and Principal Designer, brings over a decade of experience to the table, along with an MBA and a certificate in Women's Entrepreneurship from Cornell. Her sister Yvette, the Co-Founder and COO, is a licensed attorney and law professor who manages the firm's operations with her sharp analytical skills. Together, they share their journey of building a successful Black-owned, women-owned design business, discussing everything from the challenges they've faced to the importance of solid business processes. We dive into their approach to client management, pricing strategies, and the value of investing in professional photography and PR. LuAnn Nigara, Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe's Ah-Ha Moments “As we've like changed our process and honed it, it has gotten us to the right people…to the right personalities, because that's very important for us.” - Elle “If you don't want to make a mistake today, stay in bed. All right? Stay in bed because the rest of us are putting it on the line, and we're doing our best. But you know what? Our best isn't always good enough. Sometimes there are mistakes.” - LuAnn "Process is really important. And I think people underestimate the purpose or the value of process. And I think we, in the beginning, underestimated the value of process." - Yvette More About Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe We are Elle & Yvette, sisters and founders of Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm servicing the DMV area and beyond. We founded Décorelle in 2018 to fill a gap in the interior design market – one that often fails to capture the newlyweds who just bought their first home, the empty nesters who want to reimagine their nest, or the bachelor(ette) who is just starting life out. Over the years, we have mastered the art of marrying the luxury that is interior design and accessibility that does not compromise quality and functionality. Décorelle is a testament to our passion for interior design and unwavering belief that every individual deserves to experience the transformative power of a beautifully designed space. Connect with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe Website Instagram TikTok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Hiring Toolkit Bundle Mydoma Studio Duke Renders Other Shows: #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designer Today With Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe:

In this episode, I sit down with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe, the incredible sisters behind Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm serving the DMV area and beyond. Elle, the CEO and Principal Designer, brings over a decade of experience to the table, along with an MBA and a certificate in Women's Entrepreneurship from Cornell. Her sister Yvette, the Co-Founder and COO, is a licensed attorney and law professor who manages the firm's operations with her sharp analytical skills.

Together, they share their journey of building a successful Black-owned, women-owned design business, discussing everything from the challenges they've faced to the importance of solid business processes. We dive into their approach to client management, pricing strategies, and the value of investing in professional photography and PR.

LuAnn Nigara, Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe's Ah-Ha Moments

“As we've like changed our process and honed it, it has gotten us to the right people…to the right personalities, because that's very important for us.” - Elle

“If you don't want to make a mistake today, stay in bed. All right? Stay in bed because the rest of us are putting it on the line, and we're doing our best. But you know what? Our best isn't always good enough. Sometimes there are mistakes.” - LuAnn

"Process is really important. And I think people underestimate the purpose or the value of process. And I think we, in the beginning, underestimated the value of process." - Yvette

More About Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe

We are Elle & Yvette, sisters and founders of Décorelle Studio, a luxury interior design firm servicing the DMV area and beyond. We founded Décorelle in 2018 to fill a gap in the interior design market – one that often fails to capture the newlyweds who just bought their first home, the empty nesters who want to reimagine their nest, or the bachelor(ette) who is just starting life out. Over the years, we have mastered the art of marrying the luxury that is interior design and accessibility that does not compromise quality and functionality.

Décorelle is a testament to our passion for interior design and unwavering belief that every individual deserves to experience the transformative power of a beautifully designed space.

Connect with Elle Odoi & Yvette Pappoe

Website

Instagram

TikTok

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th!

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Mydoma Studio

Duke Renders

Other Shows:

#905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

#323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

#816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry

#908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

#912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designer

]]> 5369 no 1026: What Would Lu Do?: Meet Me In High Point Fall 2024! Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In today's episode we dive into the upcoming High Point Furniture Market Fall 2024! Join me as I share all the details about our amazing lineup of free panel discussions that you won’t want to miss. From turning your design passion into profit to harnessing technology in our industry, we’ll cover it all! Plus, I’ll be moderating sessions with some of the brightest minds in design. This is your chance to gain actionable insights, network with fellow creatives, and gear up for a successful 2025. Let’s get ready to elevate your business together! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Other Shows: AWDB #758: Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community AWDB #682: Flashback Friday: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB #814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process AWDB #646: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective AWDB #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story AWDB #738: Power Talk Friday: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward Fri, 11 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Meet Me In High Point Fall 2024! full 1026 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In today's episode we dive into the upcoming High Point Furniture Market Fall 2024! Join me as I share all the details about our amazing lineup of free panel discussions that you won’t want to miss. From turning your design passion into profit to harnessing technology in our industry, we’ll cover it all! Plus, I’ll be moderating sessions with some of the brightest minds in design. This is your chance to gain actionable insights, network with fellow creatives, and gear up for a successful 2025. Let’s get ready to elevate your business together! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Other Shows: AWDB #758: Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community AWDB #682: Flashback Friday: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! AWDB #814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process AWDB #646: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective AWDB #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story AWDB #738: Power Talk Friday: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In today's episode we dive into the upcoming High Point Furniture Market Fall 2024! Join me as I share all the details about our amazing lineup of free panel discussions that you won’t want to miss. From turning your design passion into profit to harnessing technology in our industry, we’ll cover it all! Plus, I’ll be moderating sessions with some of the brightest minds in design. This is your chance to gain actionable insights, network with fellow creatives, and gear up for a successful 2025. Let’s get ready to elevate your business together!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th!

Other Shows:

AWDB #758: Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community

AWDB #682: Flashback Friday: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm

AWDB #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years!

AWDB #814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business?

AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

AWDB #646: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

AWDB #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

AWDB #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse

AWDB #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton

AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

AWDB #993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals

AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

AWDB #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl

AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story

AWDB #738: Power Talk Friday: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm

AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

AWDB #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior

AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 1225 no 1025: Jecks Stone: Designing Sustainable Spaces with People, Place, and Planet in Mind Today With Jecks Stone: Today, we're joined by Jecks Stone, a sustainability-focused interior designer and owner of Persona Abode Interiors. Jecks shares her journey from childhood 'Earth Keeper' to champion of 'people, place, and planet' design. We explore how she integrates environmental consciousness into her thriving business, from client interactions to material choices. Jecks reveals her unique approach to understanding client needs, balancing vegan principles with client preferences, and the power of active listening in design. We also discuss her involvement with Interior Design Declares, a global sustainability movement. This episode offers valuable insights for designers looking to create a more purposeful and environmentally responsible business. LuAnn Nigara and Jecks Stone's Ah-Ha Moments “For me, interior design is way bigger than the space you're in and the people in that space. It's very much a holistic kind of approach to design which I think any kind of industry really should be thinking about. It's my love and my career thinking about people of all aspects and places in all kinds of iterations as one environment that should go hand in hand,” - Jecks Stone  “I express to my clients that, it's not about showing your Pinterest images and telling me to go replicate that. I don't do copy and paste. I'm delving into the heart of everything they need and want.” - Jecks Stone More About Jecks Stone Somewhat unexpectedly, Jecks set up Persona Abode Interiors in 2017 to specialize in designing eco conscious residential interiors, with a focus on designing for people and supporting world causes. It has been an interesting scenic journey so far for the company, which Jecks labels as the foundations for what’s to come. In 2022, with legacy in mind, Jecks incorporated the company. Abode of Ophilus gives a nod to her late grandfather who wasn’t able to fulfill his dream of becoming an architect but had been an inspiration since childhood after building his own home in Jamaica. Connect with Jecks Stone Persona Abode WEB Persona Abode IG Persona Abode LinkedIn Persona Abode email Interior Design Declares Web Interior Design Declares email Interior Design Declares IG What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Get 10% of any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim by using our special code: AWDB10 Interior Design Declares - Resources Amber De La Garza’s VIP Business Planning Event in Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd Other Shows: #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design Tue, 08 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Jecks Stone: Designing Sustainable Spaces with People, Place, and Planet in Mind full 1025 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jecks Stone: Today, we're joined by Jecks Stone, a sustainability-focused interior designer and owner of Persona Abode Interiors. Jecks shares her journey from childhood 'Earth Keeper' to champion of 'people, place, and planet' design. We explore how she integrates environmental consciousness into her thriving business, from client interactions to material choices. Jecks reveals her unique approach to understanding client needs, balancing vegan principles with client preferences, and the power of active listening in design. We also discuss her involvement with Interior Design Declares, a global sustainability movement. This episode offers valuable insights for designers looking to create a more purposeful and environmentally responsible business. LuAnn Nigara and Jecks Stone's Ah-Ha Moments “For me, interior design is way bigger than the space you're in and the people in that space. It's very much a holistic kind of approach to design which I think any kind of industry really should be thinking about. It's my love and my career thinking about people of all aspects and places in all kinds of iterations as one environment that should go hand in hand,” - Jecks Stone  “I express to my clients that, it's not about showing your Pinterest images and telling me to go replicate that. I don't do copy and paste. I'm delving into the heart of everything they need and want.” - Jecks Stone More About Jecks Stone Somewhat unexpectedly, Jecks set up Persona Abode Interiors in 2017 to specialize in designing eco conscious residential interiors, with a focus on designing for people and supporting world causes. It has been an interesting scenic journey so far for the company, which Jecks labels as the foundations for what’s to come. In 2022, with legacy in mind, Jecks incorporated the company. Abode of Ophilus gives a nod to her late grandfather who wasn’t able to fulfill his dream of becoming an architect but had been an inspiration since childhood after building his own home in Jamaica. Connect with Jecks Stone Persona Abode WEB Persona Abode IG Persona Abode LinkedIn Persona Abode email Interior Design Declares Web Interior Design Declares email Interior Design Declares IG What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Get 10% of any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim by using our special code: AWDB10 Interior Design Declares - Resources Amber De La Garza’s VIP Business Planning Event in Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd Other Shows: #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design Today With Jecks Stone:

Today, we're joined by Jecks Stone, a sustainability-focused interior designer and owner of Persona Abode Interiors. Jecks shares her journey from childhood 'Earth Keeper' to champion of 'people, place, and planet' design. We explore how she integrates environmental consciousness into her thriving business, from client interactions to material choices. Jecks reveals her unique approach to understanding client needs, balancing vegan principles with client preferences, and the power of active listening in design. We also discuss her involvement with Interior Design Declares, a global sustainability movement. This episode offers valuable insights for designers looking to create a more purposeful and environmentally responsible business.

LuAnn Nigara and Jecks Stone's Ah-Ha Moments

“For me, interior design is way bigger than the space you're in and the people in that space. It's very much a holistic kind of approach to design which I think any kind of industry really should be thinking about. It's my love and my career thinking about people of all aspects and places in all kinds of iterations as one environment that should go hand in hand,” - Jecks Stone

 “I express to my clients that, it's not about showing your Pinterest images and telling me to go replicate that. I don't do copy and paste. I'm delving into the heart of everything they need and want.” - Jecks Stone

More About Jecks Stone

Somewhat unexpectedly, Jecks set up Persona Abode Interiors in 2017 to specialize in designing eco conscious residential interiors, with a focus on designing for people and supporting world causes. It has been an interesting scenic journey so far for the company, which Jecks labels as the foundations for what’s to come.

In 2022, with legacy in mind, Jecks incorporated the company. Abode of Ophilus gives a nod to her late grandfather who wasn’t able to fulfill his dream of becoming an architect but had been an inspiration since childhood after building his own home in Jamaica.

Connect with Jecks Stone

Persona Abode WEB

Persona Abode IG

Persona Abode LinkedIn

Persona Abode email

Interior Design Declares Web

Interior Design Declares email

Interior Design Declares IG

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th!

Get 10% of any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim by using our special code: AWDB10

Interior Design Declares - Resources

Amber De La Garza’s VIP Business Planning Event in Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd

Other Shows:

#117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here!

#683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

#991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design

]]> 4834 no 1024: On Air Strategy Sessions: Ciara King: Setting Yourself Apart and Landing Your First Client Today With Ciara King: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Starting a design business is exciting, but it isn’t easy—especially when that first “real” client doesn’t come easily.  My guest for today’s on-air strategy session is in the thick of this tough spot and unsure how to move forward.  Today Ciara Robinson, founder of Ville Otis Interiors, joins me for a live coaching session to work through some of the hardest parts of starting a business—positioning yourself, converting leads, and landing that first client. LuAnn Nigara and Ciara King's Ah-Ha Moments “Every one of you wants our homes to feel like us and make us feel good. But there's a little nudge in why you're doing it. And it could be as simple as I used to do it with clothing, but it only lasts for the five hours that you have that outfit on. I wanted it to last your whole day. Whatever it is, there's a way to express that in the website, I'm sure of it.” -LuAnn More About Ciara King I'm Ciara King, proud owner and principal designer at Ville Otis Interiors, a full-service interior design firm nestled in the heart of Northern Georgia. I’m taking a fresh approach to design that sets me apart from the crowd. Rather than chasing the latest trends, my focus is on delving into your distinct personality and preferences to craft a one-of-a-kind space that truly feels like home. I’m not just designing interiors; I’m bringing your authentic self to life in the very walls around you. As someone who wears multiple hats, balancing the roles of a business owner, a wife, and a stepmom to three, I empathize with the desire to return to a relaxing and comfortable home, especially after a demanding day at work, a full day tending to the kids, and everything in between. I believe in doing hard things and achieving the impossible, so allow me to take your vision, elevate it beyond your wildest dreams, and turn it into a reality. When you place your confidence in Ville Otis Interiors, you can expect open and transparent communication, along with a well-defined design process that will make your upcoming project a seamless and stress-free experience! Connect with Ciara King Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! ASID New Jersey Design Expo on October 8th, 2024 in Bell Works Other Shows: AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #362 Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #1010 Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Fri, 04 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Sessions: Ciara King: Setting Yourself Apart and Landing Your First Client full 1024 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ciara King: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Starting a design business is exciting, but it isn’t easy—especially when that first “real” client doesn’t come easily.  My guest for today’s on-air strategy session is in the thick of this tough spot and unsure how to move forward.  Today Ciara Robinson, founder of Ville Otis Interiors, joins me for a live coaching session to work through some of the hardest parts of starting a business—positioning yourself, converting leads, and landing that first client. LuAnn Nigara and Ciara King's Ah-Ha Moments “Every one of you wants our homes to feel like us and make us feel good. But there's a little nudge in why you're doing it. And it could be as simple as I used to do it with clothing, but it only lasts for the five hours that you have that outfit on. I wanted it to last your whole day. Whatever it is, there's a way to express that in the website, I'm sure of it.” -LuAnn More About Ciara King I'm Ciara King, proud owner and principal designer at Ville Otis Interiors, a full-service interior design firm nestled in the heart of Northern Georgia. I’m taking a fresh approach to design that sets me apart from the crowd. Rather than chasing the latest trends, my focus is on delving into your distinct personality and preferences to craft a one-of-a-kind space that truly feels like home. I’m not just designing interiors; I’m bringing your authentic self to life in the very walls around you. As someone who wears multiple hats, balancing the roles of a business owner, a wife, and a stepmom to three, I empathize with the desire to return to a relaxing and comfortable home, especially after a demanding day at work, a full day tending to the kids, and everything in between. I believe in doing hard things and achieving the impossible, so allow me to take your vision, elevate it beyond your wildest dreams, and turn it into a reality. When you place your confidence in Ville Otis Interiors, you can expect open and transparent communication, along with a well-defined design process that will make your upcoming project a seamless and stress-free experience! Connect with Ciara King Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders! ASID New Jersey Design Expo on October 8th, 2024 in Bell Works Other Shows: AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #362 Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done AWDB #1010 Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Today With Ciara King:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Starting a design business is exciting, but it isn’t easy—especially when that first “real” client doesn’t come easily. 

My guest for today’s on-air strategy session is in the thick of this tough spot and unsure how to move forward. 

Today Ciara Robinson, founder of Ville Otis Interiors, joins me for a live coaching session to work through some of the hardest parts of starting a business—positioning yourself, converting leads, and landing that first client.

LuAnn Nigara and Ciara King's Ah-Ha Moments

“Every one of you wants our homes to feel like us and make us feel good. But there's a little nudge in why you're doing it. And it could be as simple as I used to do it with clothing, but it only lasts for the five hours that you have that outfit on. I wanted it to last your whole day. Whatever it is, there's a way to express that in the website, I'm sure of it.” -LuAnn

More About Ciara King

I'm Ciara King, proud owner and principal designer at Ville Otis Interiors, a full-service interior design firm nestled in the heart of Northern Georgia.

I’m taking a fresh approach to design that sets me apart from the crowd. Rather than chasing the latest trends, my focus is on delving into your distinct personality and preferences to craft a one-of-a-kind space that truly feels like home. I’m not just designing interiors; I’m bringing your authentic self to life in the very walls around you.

As someone who wears multiple hats, balancing the roles of a business owner, a wife, and a stepmom to three, I empathize with the desire to return to a relaxing and comfortable home, especially after a demanding day at work, a full day tending to the kids, and everything in between.

I believe in doing hard things and achieving the impossible, so allow me to take your vision, elevate it beyond your wildest dreams, and turn it into a reality. When you place your confidence in Ville Otis Interiors, you can expect open and transparent communication, along with a well-defined design process that will make your upcoming project a seamless and stress-free experience!

Connect with Ciara King

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders!

ASID New Jersey Design Expo on October 8th, 2024 in Bell Works

Other Shows:

AWDB #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

AWDB #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

AWDB #362 Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur

AWDB #833 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done

AWDB #1010 Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

]]> 3945 no 1023: Devon and Michael Wegman: Flexing and Adapting as Your Interior Design Business Grows Today With Devon and Michael Wegman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. As you know, husband and wife duos are near and dear to my heart, and we have had several great examples over the years who have shared their stories of how they divide responsibilities, support each other, and work as a team in their businesses. Today I am joined by another great spouse partnership, Devon and Michael Wegman.  Devon and Michael talk about the importance of goal-setting, how to keep yourself grounded when you grow faster than you expect, and how they work together in their business. LuAnn Nigara, Devon and Michael Wegman's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s almost like the scarier the leap is, the more motivated you are.” -Devon “It’s important to set goals, and if you’re new to the idea, don't obsess too much about what it exactly it is. You just need to have something to measure against.” -Michael More About Devon and Michael Wegman Devon was born and raised in Ridgewood, NJ, where her love of architecture and design first started. As a child, Devon was drawn to everything creative and artistic. When she was seven years old, her parents built a home in Cape Cod, MA, and Devon was exposed to the process of architecture, design and building. From this young age, she knew this was something she wanted to be a part of when she got older. Michael Wegman is a dynamic and accomplished Owner and Principal at DGI Design-Build, an innovative, multidisciplinary design-build business nationally recognized for incredible residential designs, use of cutting edge design and visualization software, and commitment to construction execution. Michael brings a unique blend of tech-savviness, operational acumen, and visionary leadership to the design-build industry, drawing on his multifaceted career in software sales, consulting, and business growth. Today, Devon and Michael live in Lincoln Park, and recently moved the growing team into a fully renovated studio space in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. Connect with Devon and Michael Wegman Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows: AWDB #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking Tue, 01 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Devon and Michael Wegman: Flexing and Adapting as Your Interior Design Business Grows full 1023 LuAnn Nigara Today With Devon and Michael Wegman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. As you know, husband and wife duos are near and dear to my heart, and we have had several great examples over the years who have shared their stories of how they divide responsibilities, support each other, and work as a team in their businesses. Today I am joined by another great spouse partnership, Devon and Michael Wegman.  Devon and Michael talk about the importance of goal-setting, how to keep yourself grounded when you grow faster than you expect, and how they work together in their business. LuAnn Nigara, Devon and Michael Wegman's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s almost like the scarier the leap is, the more motivated you are.” -Devon “It’s important to set goals, and if you’re new to the idea, don't obsess too much about what it exactly it is. You just need to have something to measure against.” -Michael More About Devon and Michael Wegman Devon was born and raised in Ridgewood, NJ, where her love of architecture and design first started. As a child, Devon was drawn to everything creative and artistic. When she was seven years old, her parents built a home in Cape Cod, MA, and Devon was exposed to the process of architecture, design and building. From this young age, she knew this was something she wanted to be a part of when she got older. Michael Wegman is a dynamic and accomplished Owner and Principal at DGI Design-Build, an innovative, multidisciplinary design-build business nationally recognized for incredible residential designs, use of cutting edge design and visualization software, and commitment to construction execution. Michael brings a unique blend of tech-savviness, operational acumen, and visionary leadership to the design-build industry, drawing on his multifaceted career in software sales, consulting, and business growth. Today, Devon and Michael live in Lincoln Park, and recently moved the growing team into a fully renovated studio space in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. Connect with Devon and Michael Wegman Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th! Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows: AWDB #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking Today With Devon and Michael Wegman:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. As you know, husband and wife duos are near and dear to my heart, and we have had several great examples over the years who have shared their stories of how they divide responsibilities, support each other, and work as a team in their businesses. Today I am joined by another great spouse partnership, Devon and Michael Wegman. 

Devon and Michael talk about the importance of goal-setting, how to keep yourself grounded when you grow faster than you expect, and how they work together in their business.

LuAnn Nigara, Devon and Michael Wegman's Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s almost like the scarier the leap is, the more motivated you are.” -Devon

“It’s important to set goals, and if you’re new to the idea, don't obsess too much about what it exactly it is. You just need to have something to measure against.” -Michael

More About Devon and Michael Wegman

Devon was born and raised in Ridgewood, NJ, where her love of architecture and design first started. As a child, Devon was drawn to everything creative and artistic. When she was seven years old, her parents built a home in Cape Cod, MA, and Devon was exposed to the process of architecture, design and building. From this young age, she knew this was something she wanted to be a part of when she got older.

Michael Wegman is a dynamic and accomplished Owner and Principal at DGI

Design-Build, an innovative, multidisciplinary design-build business nationally recognized for incredible residential designs, use of cutting edge design and visualization software, and commitment to construction execution. Michael brings a unique blend of tech-savviness, operational acumen, and visionary leadership to the design-build industry, drawing on his multifaceted career in software sales, consulting, and business growth.

Today, Devon and Michael live in Lincoln Park, and recently moved the growing team into a fully renovated studio space in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood.

Connect with Devon and Michael Wegman

Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th!

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Other Shows:

AWDB #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking

]]> 4519 no 1022: Power Talk Friday: Sonia Barney: The Journey Post-Power Talk Friday Tour Today With Sonia Barney: Hello! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I sit down with Sonia Barney, a talented interior designer who turned her passion into a thriving business. Sonia shares her unique journey, from navigating the challenges of motherhood to discovering her entrepreneurial spirit. We dive into her experiences at Power Talk Friday in Las Vegas and discuss how embracing her strengths has allowed her to carve out a successful niche in the design industry. More About Sonia Barney I’m Sonia Barney, Owner and Principal Designer at Sonia Barney Design in Idaho Falls, Idaho. With a Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and 18+ years of experience in design, construction and education, and while raising two autistic boys with my engineer husband, I know firsthand that organization, planning, and strategic creativity are paramount. I opened my own business in 2015 and have spent the last 9 years thoughtfully building my business and team to provide expert design services in the East Idaho region. I am the first to admit that I am a total design nerd who prefers space planning and spreadsheets to pillows and décor. Organization and planning are my love languages thus our clients receive full design books and detailed specifications on all construction projects. No matter the project size, our goal is to provide clients with thoughtful, elevated solutions that contribute to exceptional living. Connect with Sonia Barney Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Eileen Hahn, Jennifer Tokatyan, Stacey Brown Randall, Rick Camposand me at High Point this October 25th for Power Talk Friday Tour! Other Shows: AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy AWDB #499: Power Talk Friday: Shauna Lynn Simon: Passion, Purpose, and Pink Hair – The Secret to My Success AWDB #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sonia Barney: The Journey Post-Power Talk Friday Tour full 1022 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sonia Barney: Hello! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I sit down with Sonia Barney, a talented interior designer who turned her passion into a thriving business. Sonia shares her unique journey, from navigating the challenges of motherhood to discovering her entrepreneurial spirit. We dive into her experiences at Power Talk Friday in Las Vegas and discuss how embracing her strengths has allowed her to carve out a successful niche in the design industry. More About Sonia Barney I’m Sonia Barney, Owner and Principal Designer at Sonia Barney Design in Idaho Falls, Idaho. With a Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and 18+ years of experience in design, construction and education, and while raising two autistic boys with my engineer husband, I know firsthand that organization, planning, and strategic creativity are paramount. I opened my own business in 2015 and have spent the last 9 years thoughtfully building my business and team to provide expert design services in the East Idaho region. I am the first to admit that I am a total design nerd who prefers space planning and spreadsheets to pillows and décor. Organization and planning are my love languages thus our clients receive full design books and detailed specifications on all construction projects. No matter the project size, our goal is to provide clients with thoughtful, elevated solutions that contribute to exceptional living. Connect with Sonia Barney Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join Eileen Hahn, Jennifer Tokatyan, Stacey Brown Randall, Rick Camposand me at High Point this October 25th for Power Talk Friday Tour! Other Shows: AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy AWDB #499: Power Talk Friday: Shauna Lynn Simon: Passion, Purpose, and Pink Hair – The Secret to My Success AWDB #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Today With Sonia Barney:

Hello! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I sit down with Sonia Barney, a talented interior designer who turned her passion into a thriving business. Sonia shares her unique journey, from navigating the challenges of motherhood to discovering her entrepreneurial spirit. We dive into her experiences at Power Talk Friday in Las Vegas and discuss how embracing her strengths has allowed her to carve out a successful niche in the design industry.

More About Sonia Barney

I’m Sonia Barney, Owner and Principal Designer at Sonia Barney Design in Idaho Falls, Idaho. With a Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and 18+ years of experience in design, construction and education, and while raising two autistic boys with my engineer husband, I know firsthand that organization, planning, and strategic creativity are paramount. I opened my own business in 2015 and have spent the last 9 years thoughtfully building my business and team to provide expert design services in the East Idaho region. I am the first to admit that I am a total design nerd who prefers space planning and spreadsheets to pillows and décor. Organization and planning are my love languages thus our clients receive full design books and detailed specifications on all construction projects. No matter the project size, our goal is to provide clients with thoughtful, elevated solutions that contribute to exceptional living.

Connect with Sonia Barney

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Email

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Join Eileen Hahn, Jennifer Tokatyan, Stacey Brown Randall, Rick Camposand me at High Point this October 25th for Power Talk Friday Tour!

Other Shows:

AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

AWDB #499: Power Talk Friday: Shauna Lynn Simon: Passion, Purpose, and Pink Hair – The Secret to My Success

AWDB #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur

AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

]]> 5142 no 1021: Ann Cariola: Launching an Interior Design Firm at Age 60—It’s Never Too Late Today With Ann Cariola: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I firmly believe that age is just a number, and that you can start a successful business at 20, 80, or anything in between.  But I also know that the idea that it is too late is common. Maybe you wanted to start your own business or you were always interested in design, but you kept putting it off, focusing on other things, building your career or your family—and maybe now it does feel like it’s slipped past you.  My guest today, Ann Cariola, took the leap at age 60 to start her own design business. And she firmly believes that it’s never too late to have the life or the career you want. Today, she’s here to share how she did it—and how you can make the leap no matter what your age is. LuAnn Nigara and Ann Cariola's Ah-Ha Moments “Just because you enjoy it doesn’t mean it’s any less valuable.” -Ann “You’ve got to know what you bring to the table before you can tell someone else what you bring to the table.” -Ann “Vin was the system person, not me. I committed to them basically just to be able to say that I did it—so that even if there was a mistake I could point out, ‘Well, I followed the system.’ But the crazy thing is, the more I followed the system, the less mistakes there were. And then I thought, ‘Oh, okay, this really works.’” -LuAnn More About Ann Cariola In a nutshell, I strive to be the most enthusiastic, approachable, and resourceful interior decorator you will ever meet! I love helping vibrant women reimagine and create beautiful, functional homes that support a full and happy life as their children start to leave the nest. My journey to AGC Home Styled has been a long one. Although I have always loved design, I hold a Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Communication Disorders and enjoyed a long career as a Speech Pathologist and Executive Functions Coach. This experience, coupled with my love of design and all things “home,” has given me a unique perspective on interior design, emotional well-being, and the processes that bring it all together. Connect with Ann Cariola Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough WTFP #919 Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects AWDB #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm AWDB #145 Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm AWDB #871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset AWDB #777 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self AWDB #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Ann Cariola: Launching an Interior Design Firm at Age 60—It’s Never Too Late full 1021 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ann Cariola: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I firmly believe that age is just a number, and that you can start a successful business at 20, 80, or anything in between.  But I also know that the idea that it is too late is common. Maybe you wanted to start your own business or you were always interested in design, but you kept putting it off, focusing on other things, building your career or your family—and maybe now it does feel like it’s slipped past you.  My guest today, Ann Cariola, took the leap at age 60 to start her own design business. And she firmly believes that it’s never too late to have the life or the career you want. Today, she’s here to share how she did it—and how you can make the leap no matter what your age is. LuAnn Nigara and Ann Cariola's Ah-Ha Moments “Just because you enjoy it doesn’t mean it’s any less valuable.” -Ann “You’ve got to know what you bring to the table before you can tell someone else what you bring to the table.” -Ann “Vin was the system person, not me. I committed to them basically just to be able to say that I did it—so that even if there was a mistake I could point out, ‘Well, I followed the system.’ But the crazy thing is, the more I followed the system, the less mistakes there were. And then I thought, ‘Oh, okay, this really works.’” -LuAnn More About Ann Cariola In a nutshell, I strive to be the most enthusiastic, approachable, and resourceful interior decorator you will ever meet! I love helping vibrant women reimagine and create beautiful, functional homes that support a full and happy life as their children start to leave the nest. My journey to AGC Home Styled has been a long one. Although I have always loved design, I hold a Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Communication Disorders and enjoyed a long career as a Speech Pathologist and Executive Functions Coach. This experience, coupled with my love of design and all things “home,” has given me a unique perspective on interior design, emotional well-being, and the processes that bring it all together. Connect with Ann Cariola Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough WTFP #919 Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects AWDB #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm AWDB #145 Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm AWDB #871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset AWDB #777 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self AWDB #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset Today With Ann Cariola:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I firmly believe that age is just a number, and that you can start a successful business at 20, 80, or anything in between. 

But I also know that the idea that it is too late is common. Maybe you wanted to start your own business or you were always interested in design, but you kept putting it off, focusing on other things, building your career or your family—and maybe now it does feel like it’s slipped past you. 

My guest today, Ann Cariola, took the leap at age 60 to start her own design business. And she firmly believes that it’s never too late to have the life or the career you want. Today, she’s here to share how she did it—and how you can make the leap no matter what your age is.

LuAnn Nigara and Ann Cariola's Ah-Ha Moments

“Just because you enjoy it doesn’t mean it’s any less valuable.” -Ann

“You’ve got to know what you bring to the table before you can tell someone else what you bring to the table.” -Ann

“Vin was the system person, not me. I committed to them basically just to be able to say that I did it—so that even if there was a mistake I could point out, ‘Well, I followed the system.’ But the crazy thing is, the more I followed the system, the less mistakes there were. And then I thought, ‘Oh, okay, this really works.’” -LuAnn

More About Ann Cariola

In a nutshell, I strive to be the most enthusiastic, approachable, and resourceful interior decorator you will ever meet! I love helping vibrant women reimagine and create beautiful, functional homes that support a full and happy life as their children start to leave the nest.

My journey to AGC Home Styled has been a long one. Although I have always loved design, I hold a Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Communication Disorders and enjoyed a long career as a Speech Pathologist and Executive Functions Coach. This experience, coupled with my love of design and all things “home,” has given me a unique perspective on interior design, emotional well-being, and the processes that bring it all together.

Connect with Ann Cariola

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows:

AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity

AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success

AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough

WTFP #919 Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects

AWDB #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm

AWDB #145 Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

AWDB #871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

AWDB #777 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self

AWDB #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

]]> 3550 1020: Power Talk Friday: Lisa Haukom: A Unique Approach To Photography, Branding, And Self Portraits Today With Lisa Haukom: In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Haukom, an award-winning photographer and personal brand strategist known as the "Imposter Syndrome Slayer." Lisa shares her expertise on helping entrepreneurs, particularly women in creative fields, overcome their fears of visibility and confidently showcase themselves online. Whether you're struggling to show up on camera or looking to elevate your brand's visual storytelling, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Tune in to learn how to transform your relationship with the camera and confidently step into the spotlight of your business. LuAnn Nigara and Lisa Haukom's Ah-Ha Moments “I shoot with my iPhone because it's fabulous and it's all you need. So to remove that excuse, which is the number one excuse, which is I can't take my own photos because I don't have a nice camera. Yeah, you do. It's in your pocket. Pull it out and use it." - Lisa "Take a minute, acknowledge the wins. Like I did something good, don't go blowing by it, right?" - LuAnn More About Lisa Haukom Lisa Haukom is an award-winning photographer, author, and creative consultant renowned for her innovative No More Bad Photos™ method. She empowers CEOs, creatives, entrepreneurs, and brands to overcome self-doubt, transform their self-image, and elevate their visual presence. Connect with Lisa Haukom Website Instagram  LinkedIn X Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Pose with Purpose Free Guide Amber De La Garza's VIP Business Planning Event - Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd Other Shows: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Fri, 20 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Lisa Haukom: A Unique Approach To Photography, Branding, And Self Portraits full 1020 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lisa Haukom: In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Haukom, an award-winning photographer and personal brand strategist known as the "Imposter Syndrome Slayer." Lisa shares her expertise on helping entrepreneurs, particularly women in creative fields, overcome their fears of visibility and confidently showcase themselves online. Whether you're struggling to show up on camera or looking to elevate your brand's visual storytelling, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Tune in to learn how to transform your relationship with the camera and confidently step into the spotlight of your business. LuAnn Nigara and Lisa Haukom's Ah-Ha Moments “I shoot with my iPhone because it's fabulous and it's all you need. So to remove that excuse, which is the number one excuse, which is I can't take my own photos because I don't have a nice camera. Yeah, you do. It's in your pocket. Pull it out and use it." - Lisa "Take a minute, acknowledge the wins. Like I did something good, don't go blowing by it, right?" - LuAnn More About Lisa Haukom Lisa Haukom is an award-winning photographer, author, and creative consultant renowned for her innovative No More Bad Photos™ method. She empowers CEOs, creatives, entrepreneurs, and brands to overcome self-doubt, transform their self-image, and elevate their visual presence. Connect with Lisa Haukom Website Instagram  LinkedIn X Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Pose with Purpose Free Guide Amber De La Garza's VIP Business Planning Event - Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd Other Shows: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Today With Lisa Haukom:

In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Haukom, an award-winning photographer and personal brand strategist known as the "Imposter Syndrome Slayer." Lisa shares her expertise on helping entrepreneurs, particularly women in creative fields, overcome their fears of visibility and confidently showcase themselves online.

Whether you're struggling to show up on camera or looking to elevate your brand's visual storytelling, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Tune in to learn how to transform your relationship with the camera and confidently step into the spotlight of your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Lisa Haukom's Ah-Ha Moments

“I shoot with my iPhone because it's fabulous and it's all you need. So to remove that excuse, which is the number one excuse, which is I can't take my own photos because I don't have a nice camera. Yeah, you do. It's in your pocket. Pull it out and use it." - Lisa

"Take a minute, acknowledge the wins. Like I did something good, don't go blowing by it, right?" - LuAnn

More About Lisa Haukom

Lisa Haukom is an award-winning photographer, author, and creative consultant renowned for her innovative No More Bad Photos™ method. She empowers CEOs, creatives, entrepreneurs, and brands to overcome self-doubt, transform their self-image, and elevate their visual presence.

Connect with Lisa Haukom

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn

X

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Pose with Purpose Free Guide

Amber De La Garza's VIP Business Planning Event - Las Vegas, November 2nd and 3rd

Other Shows:

#125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

#317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

#466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

#651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

#718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos

#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals

#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

#953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography

#982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients

#1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

]]> 4303 1019: Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible: Adding Small Commercial Design to Your Residential Design Business. Today With Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible: Today I am joined by Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible from Susan Hayward Interiors. With nearly two decades of experience in both residential and commercial projects, this mother-daughter team prioritizes uncovering each client's unique style. Their approach ensures every design, whether for home or business, truly represents the client's personality and needs. They will be sharing how it can be a viable revenue stream, what it’s like working commercial, how to get into it, and everything they learned the hard way. LuAnn Nigara, Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible's Ah-Ha Moments “With every job we do, we work very well with the people we work with, so they will become our next referral or point of contact,” - Susan Hayward More About Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible In 2006, Susan Hayward began her firm, Susan Hayward Interiors, with the simple philosophy that interior design should reflect the personality and lifestyle of the client, not the designer. Joined by her daughter, Jillian Hayward Schaible, the New England-based mother-daughter team strives to uncover every client’s unique tastes and personal style. After nearly two decades of designing residential and commercial projects, Susan and Jillian approach every design with the needs of the client at the forefront. A central ethos of the firm, Susan and Jillian are dedicated to providing both form and function. As such, the firm believes that it’s not enough for a room to look good, it has to work well and function, too. In addition to their personalized approach, Susan and Jillian believe everyone deserves a beautifully designed space. A testament to their passion for creating accessible beauty, they work with different budgets and have created design service options to ensure cost isn’t a limiting factor in working with professional interior designers. Susan Hayward Interiors brings a homeowner’s dream to life with beautifully curated interior design for all. Connect with Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - get 20% off your first three months Other Shows: AWDB #41: Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design WTFP #275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers WTFP #277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters AWDB#671: Kate Bendewald: High End Commercial Design to Motherhood and Entrepreneurship. AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner AWDB #162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership AWDB #804: Sherry Schmidt: Closing the Sale in Commercial Interior Design AWDB#276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible: Adding Small Commercial Design to Your Residential Design Business. full 1019 LuAnn Nigara Today With Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible: Today I am joined by Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible from Susan Hayward Interiors. With nearly two decades of experience in both residential and commercial projects, this mother-daughter team prioritizes uncovering each client's unique style. Their approach ensures every design, whether for home or business, truly represents the client's personality and needs. They will be sharing how it can be a viable revenue stream, what it’s like working commercial, how to get into it, and everything they learned the hard way. LuAnn Nigara, Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible's Ah-Ha Moments “With every job we do, we work very well with the people we work with, so they will become our next referral or point of contact,” - Susan Hayward More About Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible In 2006, Susan Hayward began her firm, Susan Hayward Interiors, with the simple philosophy that interior design should reflect the personality and lifestyle of the client, not the designer. Joined by her daughter, Jillian Hayward Schaible, the New England-based mother-daughter team strives to uncover every client’s unique tastes and personal style. After nearly two decades of designing residential and commercial projects, Susan and Jillian approach every design with the needs of the client at the forefront. A central ethos of the firm, Susan and Jillian are dedicated to providing both form and function. As such, the firm believes that it’s not enough for a room to look good, it has to work well and function, too. In addition to their personalized approach, Susan and Jillian believe everyone deserves a beautifully designed space. A testament to their passion for creating accessible beauty, they work with different budgets and have created design service options to ensure cost isn’t a limiting factor in working with professional interior designers. Susan Hayward Interiors brings a homeowner’s dream to life with beautifully curated interior design for all. Connect with Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio - get 20% off your first three months Other Shows: AWDB #41: Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design WTFP #275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers WTFP #277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters AWDB#671: Kate Bendewald: High End Commercial Design to Motherhood and Entrepreneurship. AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner AWDB #162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership AWDB #804: Sherry Schmidt: Closing the Sale in Commercial Interior Design AWDB#276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm Today With Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible:

Today I am joined by Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible from Susan Hayward Interiors. With nearly two decades of experience in both residential and commercial projects, this mother-daughter team prioritizes uncovering each client's unique style. Their approach ensures every design, whether for home or business, truly represents the client's personality and needs. They will be sharing how it can be a viable revenue stream, what it’s like working commercial, how to get into it, and everything they learned the hard way.

LuAnn Nigara, Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible's Ah-Ha Moments

“With every job we do, we work very well with the people we work with, so they will become our next referral or point of contact,” - Susan Hayward

More About Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible

In 2006, Susan Hayward began her firm, Susan Hayward Interiors, with the simple philosophy that interior design should reflect the personality and lifestyle of the client, not the designer. Joined by her daughter, Jillian Hayward Schaible, the New England-based mother-daughter team strives to uncover every client’s unique tastes and personal style. After nearly two decades of designing residential and commercial projects, Susan and Jillian approach every design with the needs of the client at the forefront. A central

ethos of the firm, Susan and Jillian are dedicated to providing both form and function. As such, the firm believes that it’s not enough for a room to look good, it has to work well and function, too.

In addition to their personalized approach, Susan and Jillian believe everyone deserves a beautifully designed space. A testament to their passion for creating accessible beauty, they work with different budgets and have created design service options to ensure cost isn’t a limiting factor in working with professional interior designers. Susan Hayward Interiors brings a homeowner’s dream to life with beautifully curated interior design for all.

Connect with Susan Hayward & Jillian Hayward Schaible

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio - get 20% off your first three months

Other Shows:

AWDB #41: Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow

AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition

AWDB #991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design

WTFP #275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers

WTFP #277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters

AWDB#671: Kate Bendewald: High End Commercial Design to Motherhood and Entrepreneurship.

AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner

AWDB #162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership

AWDB #804: Sherry Schmidt: Closing the Sale in Commercial Interior Design

AWDB#276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm

]]> 4126 no 1018: Power Talk Friday: Connie Whitman: Heart-Centered Strategies to Successful Selling Today With Connie Whitman: Today, we're diving deep into the world of sales with the amazing Connie Whitman, and let me tell you, this woman knows her stuff! Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for over 20 years. She's been helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations, and today she's here to share that wisdom with us. LuAnn Nigara and Connie Whitman's Ah-Ha Moments “That first meeting should never be to sell your thing and give your proposal on the spot, that's not fair to you, but that's not fair to the client. Go in with no agenda, you go in with a prepared agenda of your questions, but you don't go in with, here's the solution. You don't know the solution until you speak with the client.” - Connie Whitman More About Connie Whitman Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie Whitman has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for 20+ years, helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations. Connie is a four-time #1 International Best-Selling author, including her book ESP (Easy Sales Process): 7-Steps to Sales Success, speaker, and podcast host. Her inspired teaching, transformational tools, and content ensure that business owners and salespeople grow their revenue streams through enhanced communication skills. She is thrilled to share inspiring content on her international podcasts “Changing the Sales Game” and “Enlightenment of Change.” Connect with Connie Whitman Personal Facebook Business Facebook Page X YouTube Changing the Sales Game Podcast Enlightenment of Change Podcast Book Links Communication Style Assessment (CSA)™ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th Other Shows: #760: Jessica Harling: The 7-Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques for Introverts #931: Power Talk Friday: Matthew Finlin: The Key to Selling with Authenticity and Compassion Fri, 13 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Connie Whitman: Heart-Centered Strategies to Successful Selling full 1018 LuAnn Nigara Today With Connie Whitman: Today, we're diving deep into the world of sales with the amazing Connie Whitman, and let me tell you, this woman knows her stuff! Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for over 20 years. She's been helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations, and today she's here to share that wisdom with us. LuAnn Nigara and Connie Whitman's Ah-Ha Moments “That first meeting should never be to sell your thing and give your proposal on the spot, that's not fair to you, but that's not fair to the client. Go in with no agenda, you go in with a prepared agenda of your questions, but you don't go in with, here's the solution. You don't know the solution until you speak with the client.” - Connie Whitman More About Connie Whitman Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie Whitman has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for 20+ years, helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations. Connie is a four-time #1 International Best-Selling author, including her book ESP (Easy Sales Process): 7-Steps to Sales Success, speaker, and podcast host. Her inspired teaching, transformational tools, and content ensure that business owners and salespeople grow their revenue streams through enhanced communication skills. She is thrilled to share inspiring content on her international podcasts “Changing the Sales Game” and “Enlightenment of Change.” Connect with Connie Whitman Personal Facebook Business Facebook Page X YouTube Changing the Sales Game Podcast Enlightenment of Change Podcast Book Links Communication Style Assessment (CSA)™ What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design The Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th Other Shows: #760: Jessica Harling: The 7-Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques for Introverts #931: Power Talk Friday: Matthew Finlin: The Key to Selling with Authenticity and Compassion Today With Connie Whitman:

Today, we're diving deep into the world of sales with the amazing Connie Whitman, and let me tell you, this woman knows her stuff! Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for over 20 years. She's been helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations, and today she's here to share that wisdom with us.

LuAnn Nigara and Connie Whitman's Ah-Ha Moments

“That first meeting should never be to sell your thing and give your proposal on the spot, that's not fair to you, but that's not fair to the client. Go in with no agenda, you go in with a prepared agenda of your questions, but you don't go in with, here's the solution. You don't know the solution until you speak with the client.” - Connie Whitman

More About Connie Whitman

Known for her high-energy, passionate, heart-centered, and enthusiastic approach to sales, teaching, and coaching, Connie Whitman has been the CEO of Changing the Sales Game for 20+ years, helping business owners, leaders, and sales teams build powerhouse organizations.

Connie is a four-time #1 International Best-Selling author, including her book ESP (Easy Sales Process): 7-Steps to Sales Success, speaker, and podcast host. Her inspired teaching, transformational tools, and content ensure that business owners and salespeople grow their revenue streams through enhanced communication skills.

She is thrilled to share inspiring content on her international podcasts “Changing the Sales Game” and “Enlightenment of Change.”

Connect with Connie Whitman

Personal Facebook

Business Facebook Page

X

YouTube

Changing the Sales Game Podcast

Enlightenment of Change Podcast

Book Links

Communication Style Assessment (CSA)™

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th

Other Shows:

#760: Jessica Harling: The 7-Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals

#769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques for Introverts

#931: Power Talk Friday: Matthew Finlin: The Key to Selling with Authenticity and Compassion

]]> 5232 no 1017: Dean Keyworth: Designing Modern Spaces Fit for Rural Living Today With Dean Keyworth: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Dean Keyworth, founder of Armstrong Keyworth, who recently published a book through the Royal Institute of British Architects called New Country: City Style for Rural Living, that teaches you how to create practical designs that work for country homes and also provide functionality for the modern world.  There are so many details in the book that explain how this specific expertise in design impacts rural clients, and why it matters.  Beyond this, Dean shares the big picture concept about the value you bring to your clients and the impact you have on their daily lives. LuAnn Nigara and Dean Keyworth's Ah-Ha Moments “The design has to work practically, but it doesn't have to be that radically different. If you're already contemporary, stay contemporary.” -Dean More About Dean Keyworth After a first career in travel marketing for British Airways and Hilton Hotels, Dean Keyworth re-trained with a diploma in Interior Design and set up his own practice, Armstrong Keyworth Ltd in 1997. As well as his client projects, Dean has written for magazines and newspapers in the United Kingdom and Europe on design matters. Following 3 years on the board, Dean was elected as President of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) in 2006. In 2017, he was given the prestigious BIID Merit award for services to the industry. His conversion of an 1821 church into a family home received a highly commended award for the ‘best re-use of a Georgian building’ from the Georgian Group in 2021 In December 2022, he published a book, ‘The New Country’ about bringing city sophistication to rural projects. He is currently working on his second interiors book about the changing trends in luxury design. Connect with Dean Keyworth Website Instagram The New Country Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Go to Kravet and use code J24 when placing your order! Other Shows: #991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design #987 Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche #971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design Tue, 10 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Dean Keyworth: Designing Modern Spaces Fit for Rural Living full 1017 LuAnn Nigara Today With Dean Keyworth: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Dean Keyworth, founder of Armstrong Keyworth, who recently published a book through the Royal Institute of British Architects called New Country: City Style for Rural Living, that teaches you how to create practical designs that work for country homes and also provide functionality for the modern world.  There are so many details in the book that explain how this specific expertise in design impacts rural clients, and why it matters.  Beyond this, Dean shares the big picture concept about the value you bring to your clients and the impact you have on their daily lives. LuAnn Nigara and Dean Keyworth's Ah-Ha Moments “The design has to work practically, but it doesn't have to be that radically different. If you're already contemporary, stay contemporary.” -Dean More About Dean Keyworth After a first career in travel marketing for British Airways and Hilton Hotels, Dean Keyworth re-trained with a diploma in Interior Design and set up his own practice, Armstrong Keyworth Ltd in 1997. As well as his client projects, Dean has written for magazines and newspapers in the United Kingdom and Europe on design matters. Following 3 years on the board, Dean was elected as President of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) in 2006. In 2017, he was given the prestigious BIID Merit award for services to the industry. His conversion of an 1821 church into a family home received a highly commended award for the ‘best re-use of a Georgian building’ from the Georgian Group in 2021 In December 2022, he published a book, ‘The New Country’ about bringing city sophistication to rural projects. He is currently working on his second interiors book about the changing trends in luxury design. Connect with Dean Keyworth Website Instagram The New Country Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Go to Kravet and use code J24 when placing your order! Other Shows: #991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design #987 Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche #971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design Today With Dean Keyworth:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Dean Keyworth, founder of Armstrong Keyworth, who recently published a book through the Royal Institute of British Architects called New Country: City Style for Rural Living, that teaches you how to create practical designs that work for country homes and also provide functionality for the modern world. 

There are so many details in the book that explain how this specific expertise in design impacts rural clients, and why it matters. 

Beyond this, Dean shares the big picture concept about the value you bring to your clients and the impact you have on their daily lives.

LuAnn Nigara and Dean Keyworth's Ah-Ha Moments

“The design has to work practically, but it doesn't have to be that radically different. If you're already contemporary, stay contemporary.” -Dean

More About Dean Keyworth

After a first career in travel marketing for British Airways and Hilton Hotels, Dean Keyworth re-trained with a diploma in Interior Design and set up his own practice, Armstrong Keyworth Ltd in 1997. As well as his client projects, Dean has written for magazines and newspapers in the United Kingdom and Europe on design matters.

Following 3 years on the board, Dean was elected as President of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) in 2006. In 2017, he was given the prestigious BIID Merit award for services to the industry.

His conversion of an 1821 church into a family home received a highly commended award for the ‘best re-use of a Georgian building’ from the Georgian Group in 2021

In December 2022, he published a book, ‘The New Country’ about bringing city sophistication to rural projects. He is currently working on his second interiors book about the changing trends in luxury design.

Connect with Dean Keyworth

Website

Instagram

The New Country Book

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Go to Kravet and use code J24 when placing your order!

Other Shows:

#991 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design

#987 Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche

#971 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design

]]> 3658 no 1016: What Would Lu Do?: You Are Not Alone: Navigating Business Challenges Together Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hello! Welcome back to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Today, we're diving deep into a topic that resonates with so many of us—resilience. After our recent episode featuring Sandra Funk, Robin Burrill, and Antonio DeLoatch, I received an overwhelming number of messages from listeners expressing how much they needed to hear those stories of struggle and triumph. Running a business is no easy feat, and it can often feel isolating. But remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to build resilience, tackle challenges head-on, and keep moving forward. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s navigate these business challenges together! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn! Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point! Other Shows: AWDB 1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill AWDB 222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business AWDB 881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business Fri, 06 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: You Are Not Alone: Navigating Business Challenges Together full 1016 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hello! Welcome back to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Today, we're diving deep into a topic that resonates with so many of us—resilience. After our recent episode featuring Sandra Funk, Robin Burrill, and Antonio DeLoatch, I received an overwhelming number of messages from listeners expressing how much they needed to hear those stories of struggle and triumph. Running a business is no easy feat, and it can often feel isolating. But remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to build resilience, tackle challenges head-on, and keep moving forward. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s navigate these business challenges together! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn! Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point! Other Shows: AWDB 1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill AWDB 222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business AWDB 881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hello! Welcome back to another episode of A Well-Designed Business. Today, we're diving deep into a topic that resonates with so many of us—resilience. After our recent episode featuring Sandra Funk, Robin Burrill, and Antonio DeLoatch, I received an overwhelming number of messages from listeners expressing how much they needed to hear those stories of struggle and triumph.

Running a business is no easy feat, and it can often feel isolating. But remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to build resilience, tackle challenges head-on, and keep moving forward. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s navigate these business challenges together!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn!

Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point!

Other Shows:

AWDB 1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

AWDB 222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way

AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB 881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

]]> 2441 no 1015: Charlene Miranda: Transitioning to an Interior Design Career Today With Charlene Miranda: Today, I am sitting down with Charlene Miranda, Creative Director of Miranda and Co. During her childhood living in Kuwait, Charlene's summers spent in India with her grandparents ignited her passion for creativity as she fell in love with the interior designs at her grandmother's friends' homes - a true creative from the very beginning! Join in as Charlene and I delve into her journey from Project Manager overseeing million-dollar projects to pursuing her deep-seated passion for interior design. More About Charlene Miranda We are an interior design firm based in Brooklyn working on high-end residential projects in New York City, Connecticut, the Hamptons, Westchester, and beyond. We curate beautiful spaces for our wonderful clients that reflect their lives and loves. Our designs strike a balance between warm minimalism with vibrant accents. We achieve this by layering neutral-statement-investment pieces and sprinkling in vivid art and accessories. Our Creative Director, Charlene Miranda, has a unique vision for every space that is influenced by her very multi-cultural background. Having grown up in Kuwait, she spent summers in India with her grandparents where she found herself enamored with the design of her grandmother's friends homes. Upon graduating, she moved to Canada where she lived for 10 years and eventually found herself in NYC. Being somewhat of a nomad, Charlene has always had to cultivate the feeling of home wherever she lived which ultimately fueled her creativity and passion for creating homes for other people that reflect their lives and things that they love.  Her experience with New York based, award winning interior design firms, such as Chango & co. and Michael Dawkins Home, drives her to work on high-end residential projects that incorporate custom furniture and vintage finds. We work with you and your investment to bring your vision to life. We want you to love your space and guide you through the exciting design development process, all the while ensuring good communication and effective collaboration. Connect with Charlene Miranda Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn! Recipe for Press for Interior Designers Other Shows: AWDB #12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published with Ren Miller AWDB #108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #321: Power Talk Friday Ashley Hotham Cox: Why Regional Press is Important AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Charlene Miranda: Transitioning to an Interior Design Career full 1015 LuAnn Nigara Today With Charlene Miranda: Today, I am sitting down with Charlene Miranda, Creative Director of Miranda and Co. During her childhood living in Kuwait, Charlene's summers spent in India with her grandparents ignited her passion for creativity as she fell in love with the interior designs at her grandmother's friends' homes - a true creative from the very beginning! Join in as Charlene and I delve into her journey from Project Manager overseeing million-dollar projects to pursuing her deep-seated passion for interior design. More About Charlene Miranda We are an interior design firm based in Brooklyn working on high-end residential projects in New York City, Connecticut, the Hamptons, Westchester, and beyond. We curate beautiful spaces for our wonderful clients that reflect their lives and loves. Our designs strike a balance between warm minimalism with vibrant accents. We achieve this by layering neutral-statement-investment pieces and sprinkling in vivid art and accessories. Our Creative Director, Charlene Miranda, has a unique vision for every space that is influenced by her very multi-cultural background. Having grown up in Kuwait, she spent summers in India with her grandparents where she found herself enamored with the design of her grandmother's friends homes. Upon graduating, she moved to Canada where she lived for 10 years and eventually found herself in NYC. Being somewhat of a nomad, Charlene has always had to cultivate the feeling of home wherever she lived which ultimately fueled her creativity and passion for creating homes for other people that reflect their lives and things that they love.  Her experience with New York based, award winning interior design firms, such as Chango & co. and Michael Dawkins Home, drives her to work on high-end residential projects that incorporate custom furniture and vintage finds. We work with you and your investment to bring your vision to life. We want you to love your space and guide you through the exciting design development process, all the while ensuring good communication and effective collaboration. Connect with Charlene Miranda Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn! Recipe for Press for Interior Designers Other Shows: AWDB #12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published with Ren Miller AWDB #108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #321: Power Talk Friday Ashley Hotham Cox: Why Regional Press is Important AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home Today With Charlene Miranda:

Today, I am sitting down with Charlene Miranda, Creative Director of Miranda and Co. During her childhood living in Kuwait, Charlene's summers spent in India with her grandparents ignited her passion for creativity as she fell in love with the interior designs at her grandmother's friends' homes - a true creative from the very beginning!

Join in as Charlene and I delve into her journey from Project Manager overseeing million-dollar projects to pursuing her deep-seated passion for interior design.

More About Charlene Miranda

We are an interior design firm based in Brooklyn working on high-end residential projects in New York City, Connecticut, the Hamptons, Westchester, and beyond.

We curate beautiful spaces for our wonderful clients that reflect their lives and loves. Our designs strike a balance between warm minimalism with vibrant accents. We achieve this by layering neutral-statement-investment pieces and sprinkling in vivid art and accessories.

Our Creative Director, Charlene Miranda, has a unique vision for every space that is influenced by her very multi-cultural background. Having grown up in Kuwait, she spent summers in India with her grandparents where she found herself enamored with the design of her grandmother's friends homes. Upon graduating, she moved to Canada where she lived for 10 years and eventually found herself in NYC. Being somewhat of a nomad, Charlene has always had to cultivate the feeling of home wherever she lived which ultimately fueled her creativity and passion for creating homes for other people that reflect their lives and things that they love. 

Her experience with New York based, award winning interior design firms, such as Chango & co. and Michael Dawkins Home, drives her to work on high-end residential projects that incorporate custom furniture and vintage finds. We work with you and your investment to bring your vision to life.

We want you to love your space and guide you through the exciting design development process, all the while ensuring good communication and effective collaboration.

Connect with Charlene Miranda

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Register for Window Works Lunch and Learn!

Recipe for Press for Interior Designers

Other Shows:

AWDB #12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published with Ren Miller

AWDB #108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm

AWDB #321: Power Talk Friday Ashley Hotham Cox: Why Regional Press is Important

AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home

]]> 2961 no 1014: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Mastery of Your Finances Today With Michele Williams: Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today I’ll sit down with Michele Williams for an insightful conversation. We’ll reflect on her journey together, discussing the evolution of Michele's career, her impactful CFO to Go program, and the importance of understanding finances in business. If you're looking to enhance your financial literacy and gain confidence in your numbers, this episode is packed with valuable insights and personal anecdotes. Tune in for an engaging discussion that promises to empower your business decisions! More About Michele Williams Michele Williams is the dynamic owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrique Solutions, two companies focused on empowering creative professionals to own the financials of their business. With an eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Michele has carved a niche in providing strategic business coaching and financial analytics to help business owners navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. At Scarlet Thread Consulting, Michele utilizes her extensive experience in finance and business management to offer tailored coaching and mentoring services. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve financial clarity and operational efficiency, enabling them to make informed decisions that drive their businesses forward. Through Metrique Solutions, Michele offers a unique blend of technology and consultancy, providing cutting-edge software solutions designed specifically for the owners of small businesses. Her expertise in financial metrics and data analysis empowers her clients to optimize their pricing strategies and enhance profitability. Michele's commitment to excellence and her unwavering support for her clients have established her as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the design community. Her work not only transforms businesses but also inspires creativity and growth, making her an invaluable asset to the industry. Connect with Michele Williams Scarlet Thread Consulting Metrique Solutions - get a FREE month using code “LNWDB1”! CFO2GO Instagram  Facebook  Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for the IFDA NY Event on September 10th! Other Shows: AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s AWDB #424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management AWDB #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business AWDB #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You AWDB #137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management Fri, 30 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Mastery of Your Finances full 1014 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michele Williams: Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today I’ll sit down with Michele Williams for an insightful conversation. We’ll reflect on her journey together, discussing the evolution of Michele's career, her impactful CFO to Go program, and the importance of understanding finances in business. If you're looking to enhance your financial literacy and gain confidence in your numbers, this episode is packed with valuable insights and personal anecdotes. Tune in for an engaging discussion that promises to empower your business decisions! More About Michele Williams Michele Williams is the dynamic owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrique Solutions, two companies focused on empowering creative professionals to own the financials of their business. With an eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Michele has carved a niche in providing strategic business coaching and financial analytics to help business owners navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. At Scarlet Thread Consulting, Michele utilizes her extensive experience in finance and business management to offer tailored coaching and mentoring services. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve financial clarity and operational efficiency, enabling them to make informed decisions that drive their businesses forward. Through Metrique Solutions, Michele offers a unique blend of technology and consultancy, providing cutting-edge software solutions designed specifically for the owners of small businesses. Her expertise in financial metrics and data analysis empowers her clients to optimize their pricing strategies and enhance profitability. Michele's commitment to excellence and her unwavering support for her clients have established her as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the design community. Her work not only transforms businesses but also inspires creativity and growth, making her an invaluable asset to the industry. Connect with Michele Williams Scarlet Thread Consulting Metrique Solutions - get a FREE month using code “LNWDB1”! CFO2GO Instagram  Facebook  Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Register for the IFDA NY Event on September 10th! Other Shows: AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s AWDB #424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management AWDB #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business AWDB #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You AWDB #137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management Today With Michele Williams:

Hi, welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today I’ll sit down with Michele Williams for an insightful conversation. We’ll reflect on her journey together, discussing the evolution of Michele's career, her impactful CFO to Go program, and the importance of understanding finances in business. If you're looking to enhance your financial literacy and gain confidence in your numbers, this episode is packed with valuable insights and personal anecdotes. Tune in for an engaging discussion that promises to empower your business decisions!

More About Michele Williams

Michele Williams is the dynamic owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrique Solutions, two companies focused on empowering creative professionals to own the financials of their business. With an eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Michele has carved a niche in providing strategic business coaching and financial analytics to help business owners navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

At Scarlet Thread Consulting, Michele utilizes her extensive experience in finance and business management to offer tailored coaching and mentoring services. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve financial clarity and operational efficiency, enabling them to make informed decisions that drive their businesses forward.

Through Metrique Solutions, Michele offers a unique blend of technology and consultancy, providing cutting-edge software solutions designed specifically for the owners of small businesses. Her expertise in financial metrics and data analysis empowers her clients to optimize their pricing strategies and enhance profitability.

Michele's commitment to excellence and her unwavering support for her clients have established her as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the design community. Her work not only transforms businesses but also inspires creativity and growth, making her an invaluable asset to the industry.

Connect with Michele Williams

Scarlet Thread Consulting

Metrique Solutions - get a FREE month using code “LNWDB1”!

CFO2GO

Instagram 

Facebook 

Email

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Register for the IFDA NY Event on September 10th!

Other Shows:

AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s

AWDB #424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management

AWDB #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You

AWDB #137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management

]]> 5484 no 1013: Elan Design House: Elements of a Successful Business Partnership Today With Elan Design House: Today, with Kilian Camp, Alison Green, and Kadie Chiera of Élan Design House, we explore the dynamics of running a successful interior design firm as a trio. These talented women share their journey from co-workers to co-founders, revealing how they've leveraged their complementary skills to create a thriving business. We discuss the importance of clear role definition, effective communication strategies, and maintaining work-life balance in a partnership. In this conversation we also discuss crucial business aspects, including legal considerations, financial management, and the value of outsourcing. Whether you're considering a partnership or looking to optimize your solo practice, this episode offers valuable insights on building a sustainable and enjoyable design business. More About Elan Design House To do something with élan \ā-’län\ is to do it with spirited confidence and style. It is with this intention that Élan Design House guides the discovery, coordination and actualization of each client’s uniquely personal vision for a space in which to most authentically live, to share experiences, to simply be. Founded by Kilian Camp, Alison Green and Kadie Chiera, the dynamic team behind Élan Design House are experts in their field, known for methodically pushing boundaries and creating intuitively composed spaces that exude a sense of freedom. Connect with Elan Design House Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok LuAnn Nigara and Elan Design House’s Ah-Ha Moments “Because a business operates day-to-day well, doesn't mean it’s something to sell, right? It's the process and the documentation and ablity to show the profitability, and a client lis,t and all of that—that's the thing that you buy” - LuAnn Nigara “Even though we can't take every project…we do have a very nice, tight-knit design community. We have friends that are designers as well, maybe they have more opportunity, more time, to take those projects.” - Alison Green “It doesn't mean you're not in business. It doesn't mean you're not making money. But it does mean that you're not optimized, you're not making as much as you could, when you do not take the time to strategize and to also look and evaluate what actually happened.” - LuAnn Nigara What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkit Bundle Window Works Lunch & Learn with Charles Pavarini III Other Shows: AWDB #977: Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner WTFP 283: Bound by Business: Forever Friends: Mimi Harling and Susette Kubiak WTFP 282: Bound By Business: Like Mother, Like Son. Debbie Hall and Trent Hall WTFP 280: Bound By Business: Sisters in Business. Lindsay and Heather Madonia WTFP 277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters WTFP 275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers WTFP 272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child WTFP 269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws Tue, 27 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Elan Design House: Elements of a Successful Business Partnership full 1013 LuAnn Nigara Today With Elan Design House: Today, with Kilian Camp, Alison Green, and Kadie Chiera of Élan Design House, we explore the dynamics of running a successful interior design firm as a trio. These talented women share their journey from co-workers to co-founders, revealing how they've leveraged their complementary skills to create a thriving business. We discuss the importance of clear role definition, effective communication strategies, and maintaining work-life balance in a partnership. In this conversation we also discuss crucial business aspects, including legal considerations, financial management, and the value of outsourcing. Whether you're considering a partnership or looking to optimize your solo practice, this episode offers valuable insights on building a sustainable and enjoyable design business. More About Elan Design House To do something with élan \ā-’län\ is to do it with spirited confidence and style. It is with this intention that Élan Design House guides the discovery, coordination and actualization of each client’s uniquely personal vision for a space in which to most authentically live, to share experiences, to simply be. Founded by Kilian Camp, Alison Green and Kadie Chiera, the dynamic team behind Élan Design House are experts in their field, known for methodically pushing boundaries and creating intuitively composed spaces that exude a sense of freedom. Connect with Elan Design House Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok LuAnn Nigara and Elan Design House’s Ah-Ha Moments “Because a business operates day-to-day well, doesn't mean it’s something to sell, right? It's the process and the documentation and ablity to show the profitability, and a client lis,t and all of that—that's the thing that you buy” - LuAnn Nigara “Even though we can't take every project…we do have a very nice, tight-knit design community. We have friends that are designers as well, maybe they have more opportunity, more time, to take those projects.” - Alison Green “It doesn't mean you're not in business. It doesn't mean you're not making money. But it does mean that you're not optimized, you're not making as much as you could, when you do not take the time to strategize and to also look and evaluate what actually happened.” - LuAnn Nigara What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Hiring Toolkit Bundle Window Works Lunch & Learn with Charles Pavarini III Other Shows: AWDB #977: Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner WTFP 283: Bound by Business: Forever Friends: Mimi Harling and Susette Kubiak WTFP 282: Bound By Business: Like Mother, Like Son. Debbie Hall and Trent Hall WTFP 280: Bound By Business: Sisters in Business. Lindsay and Heather Madonia WTFP 277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters WTFP 275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers WTFP 272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child WTFP 269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws Today With Elan Design House:

Today, with Kilian Camp, Alison Green, and Kadie Chiera of Élan Design House, we explore the dynamics of running a successful interior design firm as a trio. These talented women share their journey from co-workers to co-founders, revealing how they've leveraged their complementary skills to create a thriving business. We discuss the importance of clear role definition, effective communication strategies, and maintaining work-life balance in a partnership. In this conversation we also discuss crucial business aspects, including legal considerations, financial management, and the value of outsourcing. Whether you're considering a partnership or looking to optimize your solo practice, this episode offers valuable insights on building a sustainable and enjoyable design business.

More About Elan Design House

To do something with élan \ā-’län\ is to do it with spirited confidence and style. It is with this intention that Élan Design House guides the discovery, coordination and actualization of each client’s uniquely personal vision for a space in which to most authentically live, to share experiences, to simply be.

Founded by Kilian Camp, Alison Green and Kadie Chiera, the dynamic team behind Élan Design House are experts in their field, known for methodically pushing boundaries and creating intuitively composed spaces that exude a sense of freedom.

Connect with Elan Design House

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

TikTok

LuAnn Nigara and Elan Design House’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Because a business operates day-to-day well, doesn't mean it’s something to sell, right? It's the process and the documentation and ablity to show the profitability, and a client lis,t and all of that—that's the thing that you buy” - LuAnn Nigara

“Even though we can't take every project…we do have a very nice, tight-knit design community. We have friends that are designers as well, maybe they have more opportunity, more time, to take those projects.” - Alison Green

“It doesn't mean you're not in business. It doesn't mean you're not making money. But it does mean that you're not optimized, you're not making as much as you could, when you do not take the time to strategize and to also look and evaluate what actually happened.” - LuAnn Nigara

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Window Works Lunch & Learn with Charles Pavarini III

Other Shows:

AWDB #977: Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner

WTFP 283: Bound by Business: Forever Friends: Mimi Harling and Susette Kubiak

WTFP 282: Bound By Business: Like Mother, Like Son. Debbie Hall and Trent Hall

WTFP 280: Bound By Business: Sisters in Business. Lindsay and Heather Madonia

WTFP 277: Bound by Business: Fathers and Daughters

WTFP 275: Bound by Business: Bloomin’ Blinds, Working with Your Brothers

WTFP 272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child

WTFP 269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws

]]> 4305 1012: Power Talk Friday: Angie Viehman: A Realistic Online Business Model for Interior Designers Today With Angie Viehman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I hear from designers all the time who want to start online businesses on the side. And while it’s easy to understand why this is appealing—creating some passive income and diversifying your revenue—the truth is that I usually see this as a distraction. My advice is almost always to stay focused on what you’re doing now instead of chasing a new business or a new idea.  And in most cases, I stand by that. But my guest today, Angie Viehman, specializes in helping women entrepreneurs start more strategic online businesses—ones that don’t distract or derail, but instead complement existing businesses by targeting current and past clients. Today, she’s here to share how to do it More About Angie Viehman Angie Viehman is a seasoned Certified Operations Expert and E-Commerce Business Builder with over two decades of experience working with industry giants such as Target, Crate&Barrel, Room&Board and Blu Dot. Angie brings a refreshing approach to the e-commerce landscape, guiding businesses to triple their revenue while abolishing overwhelm and overwork. Her passion lies in empowering women to create sustainable businesses that they love, generating wealth and balance in all aspects of their lives. When Angie is not helping clients take the e-commerce world by storm, she can be found hiking, growing edible landscapes and hanging with her Bernedoodles, Walter and Lilly. Connect with Angie Viehman Website Instagram  LinkedIn How To Add An Online Store To ANY Business What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Click here get 20% off your first three months on Mydoma Studio Other Shows: #169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! Fri, 23 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Angie Viehman: A Realistic Online Business Model for Interior Designers full 1012 LuAnn Nigara Today With Angie Viehman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I hear from designers all the time who want to start online businesses on the side. And while it’s easy to understand why this is appealing—creating some passive income and diversifying your revenue—the truth is that I usually see this as a distraction. My advice is almost always to stay focused on what you’re doing now instead of chasing a new business or a new idea.  And in most cases, I stand by that. But my guest today, Angie Viehman, specializes in helping women entrepreneurs start more strategic online businesses—ones that don’t distract or derail, but instead complement existing businesses by targeting current and past clients. Today, she’s here to share how to do it More About Angie Viehman Angie Viehman is a seasoned Certified Operations Expert and E-Commerce Business Builder with over two decades of experience working with industry giants such as Target, Crate&Barrel, Room&Board and Blu Dot. Angie brings a refreshing approach to the e-commerce landscape, guiding businesses to triple their revenue while abolishing overwhelm and overwork. Her passion lies in empowering women to create sustainable businesses that they love, generating wealth and balance in all aspects of their lives. When Angie is not helping clients take the e-commerce world by storm, she can be found hiking, growing edible landscapes and hanging with her Bernedoodles, Walter and Lilly. Connect with Angie Viehman Website Instagram  LinkedIn How To Add An Online Store To ANY Business What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Click here get 20% off your first three months on Mydoma Studio Other Shows: #169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! Today With Angie Viehman:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I hear from designers all the time who want to start online businesses on the side. And while it’s easy to understand why this is appealing—creating some passive income and diversifying your revenue—the truth is that I usually see this as a distraction. My advice is almost always to stay focused on what you’re doing now instead of chasing a new business or a new idea. 

And in most cases, I stand by that. But my guest today, Angie Viehman, specializes in helping women entrepreneurs start more strategic online businesses—ones that don’t distract or derail, but instead complement existing businesses by targeting current and past clients. Today, she’s here to share how to do it

More About Angie Viehman

Angie Viehman is a seasoned Certified Operations Expert and E-Commerce Business Builder with over two decades of experience working with industry giants such as Target, Crate&Barrel, Room&Board and Blu Dot. Angie brings a refreshing approach to the e-commerce landscape, guiding businesses to triple their revenue while abolishing overwhelm and overwork. Her passion lies in empowering women to create sustainable businesses that they love, generating wealth and balance in all aspects of their lives.

When Angie is not helping clients take the e-commerce world by storm, she can be found hiking, growing edible landscapes and hanging with her Bernedoodles, Walter and Lilly.

Connect with Angie Viehman

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn

How To Add An Online Store To ANY Business

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Click here get 20% off your first three months on Mydoma Studio

Other Shows:

#169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference

#474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

#236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!

]]> 2652 no 1011: Nicole Arnold: 3 Steps for a Successful Transition to Interior Design Today With Nicole Arnold: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Nicole Arnold, came to interior design as her second career after a corporate background at Levi Strauss.  She took the lessons she learned interacting with C-suite executives in her corporate career and applied them as a designer, learning lessons along the way but becoming an industry leader.  Today, she’s here to share what she believes are the three core foundational pieces that lead to a successful transition into our industry. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Arnold's Ah-Ha Moments  “If a client has to call us to find out what's going on, something is wrong.” -Nicole “We keep hearing that AI is killing the industry, and I’m sorry, but that’s not the industry’s problem. The problem is in each of our own businesses. If we’re not showing up and managing a project from start to finish in a way where it’s clear that we are the leader of the project, with grace, kindness, and professionalism, that’s the problem.” -LuAnn More About Nicole Arnold As president of an award-winning Dallas interior design firm, she’s earned widespread acclaim for her ability to “make space meaningful” for the customized, personalized residential interiors and the commercial facilities she designs in prestigious the Dallas area communities such as Preston Hollow, University Park, Kessler Park, Southlake, Highland Park, Allen, Frisco, Plano, Irving, Flower Mound, and more. In addition to her work in Texas, she has also completed projects in Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arizona, Colorado, and New York. She also consults and guides custom home builders and realtors so they can enable their clients to visualize their new space. Nicole co-founded the North Texas Design Group in 2013, an alliance of designers working directly with manufacturers to provide clients with competitive pricing and a wide assortment of exclusive furnishings. Additionally, she holds a dual major Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Professional Sales from Kennesaw State University. She is an IDS Professional and ASID Associate. She is currently a member of the Interior Design Society’s National Board of Directors. Connect with Nicole Arnold Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Hiring Toolkit Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th at High Point The Interior Design Society (IDS) - Power Talk Friday attendees will receive $75 off when joining IDS Other Shows Mentioned: #451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years #739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life Tue, 20 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Nicole Arnold: 3 Steps for a Successful Transition to Interior Design full 1011 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nicole Arnold: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Nicole Arnold, came to interior design as her second career after a corporate background at Levi Strauss.  She took the lessons she learned interacting with C-suite executives in her corporate career and applied them as a designer, learning lessons along the way but becoming an industry leader.  Today, she’s here to share what she believes are the three core foundational pieces that lead to a successful transition into our industry. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Arnold's Ah-Ha Moments  “If a client has to call us to find out what's going on, something is wrong.” -Nicole “We keep hearing that AI is killing the industry, and I’m sorry, but that’s not the industry’s problem. The problem is in each of our own businesses. If we’re not showing up and managing a project from start to finish in a way where it’s clear that we are the leader of the project, with grace, kindness, and professionalism, that’s the problem.” -LuAnn More About Nicole Arnold As president of an award-winning Dallas interior design firm, she’s earned widespread acclaim for her ability to “make space meaningful” for the customized, personalized residential interiors and the commercial facilities she designs in prestigious the Dallas area communities such as Preston Hollow, University Park, Kessler Park, Southlake, Highland Park, Allen, Frisco, Plano, Irving, Flower Mound, and more. In addition to her work in Texas, she has also completed projects in Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arizona, Colorado, and New York. She also consults and guides custom home builders and realtors so they can enable their clients to visualize their new space. Nicole co-founded the North Texas Design Group in 2013, an alliance of designers working directly with manufacturers to provide clients with competitive pricing and a wide assortment of exclusive furnishings. Additionally, she holds a dual major Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Professional Sales from Kennesaw State University. She is an IDS Professional and ASID Associate. She is currently a member of the Interior Design Society’s National Board of Directors. Connect with Nicole Arnold Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Hiring Toolkit Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th at High Point The Interior Design Society (IDS) - Power Talk Friday attendees will receive $75 off when joining IDS Other Shows Mentioned: #451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years #739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life Today With Nicole Arnold:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Nicole Arnold, came to interior design as her second career after a corporate background at Levi Strauss. 

She took the lessons she learned interacting with C-suite executives in her corporate career and applied them as a designer, learning lessons along the way but becoming an industry leader. 

Today, she’s here to share what she believes are the three core foundational pieces that lead to a successful transition into our industry.

LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Arnold's Ah-Ha Moments

 “If a client has to call us to find out what's going on, something is wrong.” -Nicole

“We keep hearing that AI is killing the industry, and I’m sorry, but that’s not the industry’s problem. The problem is in each of our own businesses. If we’re not showing up and managing a project from start to finish in a way where it’s clear that we are the leader of the project, with grace, kindness, and professionalism, that’s the problem.” -LuAnn

More About Nicole Arnold

As president of an award-winning Dallas interior design firm, she’s earned widespread acclaim for her ability to “make space meaningful” for the customized, personalized residential interiors and the commercial facilities she designs in prestigious the Dallas area communities such as Preston Hollow, University Park, Kessler Park, Southlake, Highland Park, Allen, Frisco, Plano, Irving, Flower Mound, and more. In addition to her work in Texas, she has also completed projects in Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arizona, Colorado, and New York. She also consults and guides custom home builders and realtors so they can enable their clients to visualize their new space.

Nicole co-founded the North Texas Design Group in 2013, an alliance of designers working directly with manufacturers to provide clients with competitive pricing and a wide assortment of exclusive furnishings. Additionally, she holds a dual major Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Professional Sales from Kennesaw State University. She is an IDS Professional and ASID Associate.

She is currently a member of the Interior Design Society’s National Board of Directors.

Connect with Nicole Arnold

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Hiring Toolkit

Power Talk Friday Tour - October 25th at High Point

The Interior Design Society (IDS) - Power Talk Friday attendees will receive $75 off when joining IDS

Other Shows Mentioned:

#451 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years

#739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life

]]> 4275 no 1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Today With Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill In this episode of Overheard, we’re exploring the crucial topic of mental resilience in running a design business. I’m joined by three industry powerhouses: Sandra Funk, founder and CEO of House of Funk and creator of the Interior Design Standard; Antonio DeLoatch, of Antonio DeLoatch Design + Interiors; and Robin Burrill, the creative visionary behind Signature Home Services. Our guests share personal stories of overcoming challenges, from health crises to difficult client interactions, offering valuable insights on maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss practical strategies for staying centered, the importance of clear communication, and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. More About Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Antonio Deloatch Jr: Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds. My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer. Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Robin Burrill: Robin Burrill, RID, NCIDQ, ASID, IDS, CAPS, is an award-winning professional kitchen, bath, and interior designer. Robin and her husband, Robert Mathews, have owned Signature Home Services for nearly three decades, establishing a superior in-house team with a reputation for delivering meticulous and innovative design to their many repeat clients. Connect with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Antonio Deloatch Jr Antonio DeLoatch Instagram Sandra Funk Interior Design Standard Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek How to Start an Interior Design Business Interior Design Pricing Robin Burrill Signature Home Services Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: ASID New Jersey Design Expo - October 8th Interior Design Standard - Next Launch: September 12th Other Shows Mentioned: #986 ​​Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things #895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #860 Antonio Deloatch: Believe in Yourself, Believe in Relationships #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Fri, 16 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill full 1010 LuAnn Nigara Today With Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill In this episode of Overheard, we’re exploring the crucial topic of mental resilience in running a design business. I’m joined by three industry powerhouses: Sandra Funk, founder and CEO of House of Funk and creator of the Interior Design Standard; Antonio DeLoatch, of Antonio DeLoatch Design + Interiors; and Robin Burrill, the creative visionary behind Signature Home Services. Our guests share personal stories of overcoming challenges, from health crises to difficult client interactions, offering valuable insights on maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss practical strategies for staying centered, the importance of clear communication, and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. More About Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Antonio Deloatch Jr: Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds. My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer. Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Robin Burrill: Robin Burrill, RID, NCIDQ, ASID, IDS, CAPS, is an award-winning professional kitchen, bath, and interior designer. Robin and her husband, Robert Mathews, have owned Signature Home Services for nearly three decades, establishing a superior in-house team with a reputation for delivering meticulous and innovative design to their many repeat clients. Connect with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill Antonio Deloatch Jr Antonio DeLoatch Instagram Sandra Funk Interior Design Standard Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek How to Start an Interior Design Business Interior Design Pricing Robin Burrill Signature Home Services Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: ASID New Jersey Design Expo - October 8th Interior Design Standard - Next Launch: September 12th Other Shows Mentioned: #986 ​​Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things #895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #860 Antonio Deloatch: Believe in Yourself, Believe in Relationships #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Today With Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

In this episode of Overheard, we’re exploring the crucial topic of mental resilience in running a design business. I’m joined by three industry powerhouses: Sandra Funk, founder and CEO of House of Funk and creator of the Interior Design Standard; Antonio DeLoatch, of Antonio DeLoatch Design + Interiors; and Robin Burrill, the creative visionary behind Signature Home Services.

Our guests share personal stories of overcoming challenges, from health crises to difficult client interactions, offering valuable insights on maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss practical strategies for staying centered, the importance of clear communication, and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.

More About Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

Antonio Deloatch Jr: Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds. My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer.

Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm.

Robin Burrill: Robin Burrill, RID, NCIDQ, ASID, IDS, CAPS, is an award-winning professional kitchen, bath, and interior designer.

Robin and her husband, Robert Mathews, have owned Signature Home Services for nearly three decades, establishing a superior in-house team with a reputation for delivering meticulous and innovative design to their many repeat clients.

Connect with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

Antonio Deloatch Jr

Antonio DeLoatch

Instagram

Sandra Funk

Interior Design Standard

Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek

How to Start an Interior Design Business

Interior Design Pricing

Robin Burrill

Signature Home Services

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

ASID New Jersey Design Expo - October 8th

Interior Design Standard - Next Launch: September 12th

Other Shows Mentioned:

#986 ​​Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

#895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

#860 Antonio Deloatch: Believe in Yourself, Believe in Relationships

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

]]> 4765 1009: Taylor Zack: Embracing a Large-Scale Mindset to Launch Your Design Business Today With Taylor Zack: Today, I am sitting down with Taylor Zack from Rever Design Co. If you dream of your own design firm and team but need to change your mindset, then this is the episode for you. In barely two years, Taylor has grown a profitable, well-designed business.  Taylor has almost reached the two-year mark with her own firm and has seen some quick success. She does have seven years of experience working freelance and for some other design firms, so she didn't go in blind, but she did go in intentionally. Tune in to learn how new designers can succeed quickly with a growth mindset. LuAnn Nigara and Taylor Zack's Ah-Ha Moments “Saving for an office right off the bat was mr immersing myself in a tight knit community, establishing myself as a business, and giving me confidence.” - Taylor Zack More About Taylor Zack With an eye for interiors that are artful and elevated, Taylor has garnered clients and followers from coast to coast. She has spent nearly a decade honing in on her craft, staying true to her intimate design approach, and has developed a sought-after style. Originally from Long Island, New York, and after having moved West to California, Taylor has married timeless East Coast aesthetic with California’s laid-back, natural touch. Bold prints, a mix of modern lines and organic elements are the pillars that define and distinguish a Rever home. Today, with Taylor at the lead, Rever Design Co. provides designs for large-scale residencies throughout Southern California, working with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, to life, and into your home. Connect with Taylor Zack Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house! Wine + Design Sunbrella Tour - August 21st! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design AWDB #959: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: How to Take Calculated Risks in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Taylor Zack: Embracing a Large-Scale Mindset to Launch Your Design Business full 1009 LuAnn Nigara Today With Taylor Zack: Today, I am sitting down with Taylor Zack from Rever Design Co. If you dream of your own design firm and team but need to change your mindset, then this is the episode for you. In barely two years, Taylor has grown a profitable, well-designed business.  Taylor has almost reached the two-year mark with her own firm and has seen some quick success. She does have seven years of experience working freelance and for some other design firms, so she didn't go in blind, but she did go in intentionally. Tune in to learn how new designers can succeed quickly with a growth mindset. LuAnn Nigara and Taylor Zack's Ah-Ha Moments “Saving for an office right off the bat was mr immersing myself in a tight knit community, establishing myself as a business, and giving me confidence.” - Taylor Zack More About Taylor Zack With an eye for interiors that are artful and elevated, Taylor has garnered clients and followers from coast to coast. She has spent nearly a decade honing in on her craft, staying true to her intimate design approach, and has developed a sought-after style. Originally from Long Island, New York, and after having moved West to California, Taylor has married timeless East Coast aesthetic with California’s laid-back, natural touch. Bold prints, a mix of modern lines and organic elements are the pillars that define and distinguish a Rever home. Today, with Taylor at the lead, Rever Design Co. provides designs for large-scale residencies throughout Southern California, working with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, to life, and into your home. Connect with Taylor Zack Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house! Wine + Design Sunbrella Tour - August 21st! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design AWDB #959: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: How to Take Calculated Risks in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Today With Taylor Zack:

Today, I am sitting down with Taylor Zack from Rever Design Co. If you dream of your own design firm and team but need to change your mindset, then this is the episode for you. In barely two years, Taylor has grown a profitable, well-designed business. 

Taylor has almost reached the two-year mark with her own firm and has seen some quick success. She does have seven years of experience working freelance and for some other design firms, so she didn't go in blind, but she did go in intentionally. Tune in to learn how new designers can succeed quickly with a growth mindset.

LuAnn Nigara and Taylor Zack's Ah-Ha Moments

“Saving for an office right off the bat was mr immersing myself in a tight knit community, establishing myself as a business, and giving me confidence.” - Taylor Zack

More About Taylor Zack

With an eye for interiors that are artful and elevated, Taylor has garnered clients and followers from coast to coast. She has spent nearly a decade honing in on her craft, staying true to her intimate design approach, and has developed a sought-after style.

Originally from Long Island, New York, and after having moved West to California, Taylor has married timeless East Coast aesthetic with California’s laid-back, natural touch. Bold prints, a mix of modern lines and organic elements are the pillars that define and distinguish a Rever home.

Today, with Taylor at the lead, Rever Design Co. provides designs for large-scale residencies throughout Southern California, working with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, to life, and into your home.

Connect with Taylor Zack

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house!

Wine + Design Sunbrella Tour - August 21st!

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

AWDB #959: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: How to Take Calculated Risks in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

]]> 3321 no 1008: Power Talk Friday: Barb Davids: The SWEET Framework for Effective SEO Today With Barb Davids: Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! If you've ever felt frustrated working with an SEO company, wondering whether your investment is truly paying off, then you'll want to tune in to this insightful episode. I’ll sit down with digital marketing expert Barb Davids to shed light on the common challenges business owners face when navigating the world of search engine optimization. Barb offers a candid perspective, acknowledging the lack of transparency that has plagued the industry, and shares strategies for how SEO providers can build more trust and accountability. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to invest in your online presence, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge to make smarter decisions when partnering with SEO professionals. More About Barb Davids Founder of Compass Digital Strategies since 2018, and digital marketing strategist for nearly 20 years. From my Las Vegas location, I’ve analyzed, optimized, tested and tinkered with SEO for large corporations and small-medium businesses. Being fascinated by what I do means I’ve helped clients achieve: Increases of organic traffic by 256%, converting 22% more leads, increases of keyword visibility by 39%, 66% more revenue through email marketing, and 51% sales increase from Google organic search. Connect with Barb Davids Website Instagram  X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th Compass Digital Strategies Resources! Other Shows Mentioned: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Fri, 09 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Barb Davids: The SWEET Framework for Effective SEO full 1008 LuAnn Nigara Today With Barb Davids: Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! If you've ever felt frustrated working with an SEO company, wondering whether your investment is truly paying off, then you'll want to tune in to this insightful episode. I’ll sit down with digital marketing expert Barb Davids to shed light on the common challenges business owners face when navigating the world of search engine optimization. Barb offers a candid perspective, acknowledging the lack of transparency that has plagued the industry, and shares strategies for how SEO providers can build more trust and accountability. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to invest in your online presence, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge to make smarter decisions when partnering with SEO professionals. More About Barb Davids Founder of Compass Digital Strategies since 2018, and digital marketing strategist for nearly 20 years. From my Las Vegas location, I’ve analyzed, optimized, tested and tinkered with SEO for large corporations and small-medium businesses. Being fascinated by what I do means I’ve helped clients achieve: Increases of organic traffic by 256%, converting 22% more leads, increases of keyword visibility by 39%, 66% more revenue through email marketing, and 51% sales increase from Google organic search. Connect with Barb Davids Website Instagram  X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th Compass Digital Strategies Resources! Other Shows Mentioned: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Today With Barb Davids:

Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! If you've ever felt frustrated working with an SEO company, wondering whether your investment is truly paying off, then you'll want to tune in to this insightful episode. I’ll sit down with digital marketing expert Barb Davids to shed light on the common challenges business owners face when navigating the world of search engine optimization.

Barb offers a candid perspective, acknowledging the lack of transparency that has plagued the industry, and shares strategies for how SEO providers can build more trust and accountability. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to invest in your online presence, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge to make smarter decisions when partnering with SEO professionals.

More About Barb Davids

Founder of Compass Digital Strategies since 2018, and digital marketing strategist for nearly 20 years.

From my Las Vegas location, I’ve analyzed, optimized, tested and tinkered with SEO for large corporations and small-medium businesses.

Being fascinated by what I do means I’ve helped clients achieve: Increases of organic traffic by 256%, converting 22% more leads, increases of keyword visibility by 39%, 66% more revenue through email marketing, and 51% sales increase from Google organic search.

Connect with Barb Davids

Website

Instagram 

X

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Power Talk Friday Tour - High Point, October 25th

Compass Digital Strategies Resources!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm

#746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio

]]> 4222 no 1007: Lauren Li: Interior Design Blogging to Interior Design Book Deals Today With Lauren Li: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers dream of getting a book deal, but aren’t sure where to start.  My guest today is interior designer and author Lauren Li, sharing her journey from blog posts to book deals. Lauren, the founding director of Melbourne-based interior design studio Sisällä, has recently published two books with Thames & Hudson: "The New French Look" and "Beachside Modern."  Lauren emphasizes the importance of putting your expertise out into the world and reveals how becoming an author can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how consistent content creation can lead to unexpected opportunities and the realities of the book writing and publishing process, along with strategies for developing an authentic writing voice. Of course, we discuss the business side of publishing, too, including contracts and image rights. Whether you're harboring dreams of writing your own design book or simply looking to expand your professional reach, Lauren's experience offers valuable lessons for designers at all stages of their careers. LuAnn Nigara and Lauren Li's Ah-Ha Moments “You don't really make a lot of money from books. It's more of a marketing thing.” - Lauren Li “I like to write like I'm speaking to someone — like talking to a friend. So that sets me apart.” Lauren Li “Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara “A lot of people are serious people with serious knowledge. But putting that serious information on a pen to paper is a whole different animal.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Lauren Li With an innate ability for translating the client’s personality into an interior space, Lauren skillfully applies texture and color to create atmospheric spaces. No two projects are the same. Lauren Li is the founding director of the interior design studio, Sisällä, based in Melbourne, Australia. She has more than 20 years of experience across the residential, retail, and commercial sectors, and holds a Bachelor of Design, Interior Design (Honors) from Swinburne, and a Diploma of Arts, Interior Design & Decoration from RMIT. Lauren founded sisällä in 2012 with a passion to create beautifully rich spaces reflective of her clients’ context, lifestyles, and individual desires. The studio’s name sisällä, meaning ‘inside’ in Finnish, is both a tribute to Lauren’s ancestors and her fondness for Scandinavian inspired interiors merging beauty with functionality. Connect with Lauren Li Website Instagram  Book: The New French Look on Amazon Book: Beachside Modern on Amazon The Design Society: workshops, courses and mentoring for interior designers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house! Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #381: Power Talk Friday: Julie Broad: Write a Book to Market Your Interior Design Business AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life AWDB #844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Lauren Li: Interior Design Blogging to Interior Design Book Deals full 1007 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lauren Li: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers dream of getting a book deal, but aren’t sure where to start.  My guest today is interior designer and author Lauren Li, sharing her journey from blog posts to book deals. Lauren, the founding director of Melbourne-based interior design studio Sisällä, has recently published two books with Thames & Hudson: "The New French Look" and "Beachside Modern."  Lauren emphasizes the importance of putting your expertise out into the world and reveals how becoming an author can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how consistent content creation can lead to unexpected opportunities and the realities of the book writing and publishing process, along with strategies for developing an authentic writing voice. Of course, we discuss the business side of publishing, too, including contracts and image rights. Whether you're harboring dreams of writing your own design book or simply looking to expand your professional reach, Lauren's experience offers valuable lessons for designers at all stages of their careers. LuAnn Nigara and Lauren Li's Ah-Ha Moments “You don't really make a lot of money from books. It's more of a marketing thing.” - Lauren Li “I like to write like I'm speaking to someone — like talking to a friend. So that sets me apart.” Lauren Li “Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara “A lot of people are serious people with serious knowledge. But putting that serious information on a pen to paper is a whole different animal.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Lauren Li With an innate ability for translating the client’s personality into an interior space, Lauren skillfully applies texture and color to create atmospheric spaces. No two projects are the same. Lauren Li is the founding director of the interior design studio, Sisällä, based in Melbourne, Australia. She has more than 20 years of experience across the residential, retail, and commercial sectors, and holds a Bachelor of Design, Interior Design (Honors) from Swinburne, and a Diploma of Arts, Interior Design & Decoration from RMIT. Lauren founded sisällä in 2012 with a passion to create beautifully rich spaces reflective of her clients’ context, lifestyles, and individual desires. The studio’s name sisällä, meaning ‘inside’ in Finnish, is both a tribute to Lauren’s ancestors and her fondness for Scandinavian inspired interiors merging beauty with functionality. Connect with Lauren Li Website Instagram  Book: The New French Look on Amazon Book: Beachside Modern on Amazon The Design Society: workshops, courses and mentoring for interior designers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house! Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and get 20% off your first three months! Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #381: Power Talk Friday: Julie Broad: Write a Book to Market Your Interior Design Business AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life AWDB #844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home Today With Lauren Li:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers dream of getting a book deal, but aren’t sure where to start. 

My guest today is interior designer and author Lauren Li, sharing her journey from blog posts to book deals. Lauren, the founding director of Melbourne-based interior design studio Sisällä, has recently published two books with Thames & Hudson: "The New French Look" and "Beachside Modern." 

Lauren emphasizes the importance of putting your expertise out into the world and reveals how becoming an author can elevate your design business and attract high-quality clients. She shares insights into how consistent content creation can lead to unexpected opportunities and the realities of the book writing and publishing process, along with strategies for developing an authentic writing voice. Of course, we discuss the business side of publishing, too, including contracts and image rights. Whether you're harboring dreams of writing your own design book or simply looking to expand your professional reach, Lauren's experience offers valuable lessons for designers at all stages of their careers.

LuAnn Nigara and Lauren Li's Ah-Ha Moments

“You don't really make a lot of money from books. It's more of a marketing thing.” - Lauren Li

“I like to write like I'm speaking to someone — like talking to a friend. So that sets me apart.” Lauren Li

“Be prepared to be lucky.” - LuAnn Nigara

“A lot of people are serious people with serious knowledge. But putting that serious information on a pen to paper is a whole different animal.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Lauren Li

With an innate ability for translating the client’s personality into an interior space, Lauren skillfully applies texture and color to create atmospheric spaces. No two projects are the same.

Lauren Li is the founding director of the interior design studio, Sisällä, based in Melbourne, Australia. She has more than 20 years of experience across the residential, retail, and commercial sectors, and holds a Bachelor of Design, Interior Design (Honors) from Swinburne, and a Diploma of Arts, Interior Design & Decoration from RMIT.

Lauren founded sisällä in 2012 with a passion to create beautifully rich spaces reflective of her clients’ context, lifestyles, and individual desires. The studio’s name sisällä, meaning ‘inside’ in Finnish, is both a tribute to Lauren’s ancestors and her fondness for Scandinavian inspired interiors merging beauty with functionality.

Connect with Lauren Li

Website

Instagram 

Book: The New French Look on Amazon

Book: Beachside Modern on Amazon

The Design Society: workshops, courses and mentoring for interior designers

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Join us for our free Pre CEO Conference Zoom open house!

Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and get 20% off your first three months!

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #381: Power Talk Friday: Julie Broad: Write a Book to Market Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

AWDB #844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success

AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home

]]> 3647 1006: Power Talk Friday: Tammy Nagem, CEO, High Point Market Authority. Why You Should Go to HPMKT Today With Tammy Nagem: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I don’t have to tell you that in our industry, High Point is one of the biggest to-dos. And yet, I know that many of you out there haven’t been yet for a variety of reasons—from hesitancy at making the investment to an uncertainty about what exactly is so appealing about it. Today, I’m joined by Tammy Nagem, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority to discuss what makes High Point unique and special, how the team works to create a special experience for attendees, and how attending can kickstart something of value for your business. LuAnn Nigara and Tammy Nagem's Ah-Ha Moments Watching people's faces just sort of light up as they talk about how they got started and get to tell their story is something special. I think we all sort of feel it, whether there’s a long family history or just an affinity to this industry, and High Point is where it all comes together.” -Tammy “I get that a designer is coming to High Point to shop for furniture. It’s not lost on me. But no one will tell me that there isn’t value in a whole different way for your business, even if you do spend three days doing panel discussions and interacting with other attendees.” -LuAnn More About Tammy Nagem Tammy Nagem was named president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) in 2023, overseeing strategic business development, marketing communications, and operations for High Point Market, the world’s largest home furnishings trade show. Nagem and her 13-person team manage onsite logistics for nearly 75,000 domestic and international visitors to High Point Market each spring and fall, and are additionally responsible for educational programming, wayfinding, large-scale entertainment events, and HPMA-sponsored hospitality.  HPMA stakeholders include the State of North Carolina, Guilford County, and the City of High Point, along with approximately 2,000 vendors exhibiting the latest trends in home furnishings products within 11 million square feet of showroom space, spanning 13 blocks of the City’s downtown area. Connect with Tammy Nagem Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  YouTube X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience #407 Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 #437 High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative #768: Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #408: Power Talk Friday: Visual Comfort & Rottet Studio Launch New Line at High Point Market 2019 Fri, 02 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Tammy Nagem, CEO, High Point Market Authority. Why You Should Go to HPMKT full 1006 LuAnn Nigara Today With Tammy Nagem: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I don’t have to tell you that in our industry, High Point is one of the biggest to-dos. And yet, I know that many of you out there haven’t been yet for a variety of reasons—from hesitancy at making the investment to an uncertainty about what exactly is so appealing about it. Today, I’m joined by Tammy Nagem, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority to discuss what makes High Point unique and special, how the team works to create a special experience for attendees, and how attending can kickstart something of value for your business. LuAnn Nigara and Tammy Nagem's Ah-Ha Moments Watching people's faces just sort of light up as they talk about how they got started and get to tell their story is something special. I think we all sort of feel it, whether there’s a long family history or just an affinity to this industry, and High Point is where it all comes together.” -Tammy “I get that a designer is coming to High Point to shop for furniture. It’s not lost on me. But no one will tell me that there isn’t value in a whole different way for your business, even if you do spend three days doing panel discussions and interacting with other attendees.” -LuAnn More About Tammy Nagem Tammy Nagem was named president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) in 2023, overseeing strategic business development, marketing communications, and operations for High Point Market, the world’s largest home furnishings trade show. Nagem and her 13-person team manage onsite logistics for nearly 75,000 domestic and international visitors to High Point Market each spring and fall, and are additionally responsible for educational programming, wayfinding, large-scale entertainment events, and HPMA-sponsored hospitality.  HPMA stakeholders include the State of North Carolina, Guilford County, and the City of High Point, along with approximately 2,000 vendors exhibiting the latest trends in home furnishings products within 11 million square feet of showroom space, spanning 13 blocks of the City’s downtown area. Connect with Tammy Nagem Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  YouTube X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience #407 Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 #437 High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative #768: Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #408: Power Talk Friday: Visual Comfort & Rottet Studio Launch New Line at High Point Market 2019 Today With Tammy Nagem:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I don’t have to tell you that in our industry, High Point is one of the biggest to-dos. And yet, I know that many of you out there haven’t been yet for a variety of reasons—from hesitancy at making the investment to an uncertainty about what exactly is so appealing about it.

Today, I’m joined by Tammy Nagem, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority to discuss what makes High Point unique and special, how the team works to create a special experience for attendees, and how attending can kickstart something of value for your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Tammy Nagem's Ah-Ha Moments

Watching people's faces just sort of light up as they talk about how they got started and get to tell their story is something special. I think we all sort of feel it, whether there’s a long family history or just an affinity to this industry, and High Point is where it all comes together.” -Tammy

“I get that a designer is coming to High Point to shop for furniture. It’s not lost on me. But no one will tell me that there isn’t value in a whole different way for your business, even if you do spend three days doing panel discussions and interacting with other attendees.” -LuAnn

More About Tammy Nagem

Tammy Nagem was named president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) in 2023, overseeing strategic business development, marketing communications, and operations for High Point Market, the world’s largest home furnishings trade show.

Nagem and her 13-person team manage onsite logistics for nearly 75,000 domestic and international visitors to High Point Market each spring and fall, and are additionally responsible for educational programming, wayfinding, large-scale entertainment events, and HPMA-sponsored hospitality. 

HPMA stakeholders include the State of North Carolina, Guilford County, and the City of High Point, along with approximately 2,000 vendors exhibiting the latest trends in home furnishings products within 11 million square feet of showroom space, spanning 13 blocks of the City’s downtown area.

Connect with Tammy Nagem

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

YouTube

X

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience

#407 Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019

#437 High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip

#526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary

#757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative

#768: Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester

#677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

#14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

#397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl

#408: Power Talk Friday: Visual Comfort & Rottet Studio Launch New Line at High Point Market 2019

]]> 4086 1005: Campbell Minister: Building a Referral Based Interior Design Business Today With Campbell Minister: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Building a referral-led business isn’t always easy. It takes commitment, dedication, integrity, and accountability. Most of all, it takes the ability to navigate speed bumps and navigate challenges.  My guest today, Campbell Minister, knows what it takes to do all of those things. She has created clear processes, learned how to set up proactive client expectations, and built strong relationships that bring referrals and repeat business her way. Today, she’s sharing her insights on what it takes to create those relationships and bring referrals your way. LuAnn Nigara and Campbell Minister's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s a testament to understanding the core belief that interior design is a personalized, high-level luxury service. You’re not in competition with everyone, and you’re not the right fit for everyone.” -LuAnn “Discipline and dedication are it. Really, at the end of the day, what makes me happy is if my clients are happy, so I am always thinking about what it takes to create that client experience. What do you want people to say about you?” -Campbell “It’s not who's right or wrong. It's who's bringing their perspective and that lens, and what's their lens for the situation. There’s your story and my story, but there’s always a third story.” -Campbell More About Campbell Minister Campbell Minister Design (CMD) is a boutique, referral-led decorating firm. Campbell started her firm in 2016 while taking courses in interior design. She dove headfirst into a new build construction project, forcing her to become intensely focused on project execution, and working under tight construction timelines. Fast forward 7 years later and you will find Campbell leading a team of designers, operational support staff, and tradespeople to bring her clients’ vision to life. Campbell acts on behalf of her clients at every step of the design process, caring for their home as if it was her own. She leverages strong working relationships with trusted vendors to execute each client’s vision. As the daughter of a serial decorator, artist, and antique shop owner, Campbell has an innate sense of style and an eye for good design. Merging this background along with degrees in communication, education, and art history, Campbell uses these skills to successfully turn clients’ design ideas into gorgeously real spaces. Connect with Campbell Minister Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: #346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills #939 Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home #282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #370 Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design #374 Ellie Mroz: The Reveal Install & Working with Trades #704 Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue #871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset Tue, 30 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Campbell Minister: Building a Referral Based Interior Design Business full 1005 LuAnn Nigara Today With Campbell Minister: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Building a referral-led business isn’t always easy. It takes commitment, dedication, integrity, and accountability. Most of all, it takes the ability to navigate speed bumps and navigate challenges.  My guest today, Campbell Minister, knows what it takes to do all of those things. She has created clear processes, learned how to set up proactive client expectations, and built strong relationships that bring referrals and repeat business her way. Today, she’s sharing her insights on what it takes to create those relationships and bring referrals your way. LuAnn Nigara and Campbell Minister's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s a testament to understanding the core belief that interior design is a personalized, high-level luxury service. You’re not in competition with everyone, and you’re not the right fit for everyone.” -LuAnn “Discipline and dedication are it. Really, at the end of the day, what makes me happy is if my clients are happy, so I am always thinking about what it takes to create that client experience. What do you want people to say about you?” -Campbell “It’s not who's right or wrong. It's who's bringing their perspective and that lens, and what's their lens for the situation. There’s your story and my story, but there’s always a third story.” -Campbell More About Campbell Minister Campbell Minister Design (CMD) is a boutique, referral-led decorating firm. Campbell started her firm in 2016 while taking courses in interior design. She dove headfirst into a new build construction project, forcing her to become intensely focused on project execution, and working under tight construction timelines. Fast forward 7 years later and you will find Campbell leading a team of designers, operational support staff, and tradespeople to bring her clients’ vision to life. Campbell acts on behalf of her clients at every step of the design process, caring for their home as if it was her own. She leverages strong working relationships with trusted vendors to execute each client’s vision. As the daughter of a serial decorator, artist, and antique shop owner, Campbell has an innate sense of style and an eye for good design. Merging this background along with degrees in communication, education, and art history, Campbell uses these skills to successfully turn clients’ design ideas into gorgeously real spaces. Connect with Campbell Minister Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: #346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills #939 Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home #282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #370 Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design #374 Ellie Mroz: The Reveal Install & Working with Trades #704 Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue #871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset Today With Campbell Minister:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Building a referral-led business isn’t always easy. It takes commitment, dedication, integrity, and accountability. Most of all, it takes the ability to navigate speed bumps and navigate challenges. 

My guest today, Campbell Minister, knows what it takes to do all of those things. She has created clear processes, learned how to set up proactive client expectations, and built strong relationships that bring referrals and repeat business her way. Today, she’s sharing her insights on what it takes to create those relationships and bring referrals your way.

LuAnn Nigara and Campbell Minister's Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s a testament to understanding the core belief that interior design is a personalized, high-level luxury service. You’re not in competition with everyone, and you’re not the right fit for everyone.” -LuAnn

“Discipline and dedication are it. Really, at the end of the day, what makes me happy is if my clients are happy, so I am always thinking about what it takes to create that client experience. What do you want people to say about you?” -Campbell

“It’s not who's right or wrong. It's who's bringing their perspective and that lens, and what's their lens for the situation. There’s your story and my story, but there’s always a third story.” -Campbell

More About Campbell Minister

Campbell Minister Design (CMD) is a boutique, referral-led decorating firm.

Campbell started her firm in 2016 while taking courses in interior design. She dove headfirst into a new build construction project, forcing her to become intensely focused on project execution, and working under tight construction timelines. Fast forward 7 years later and you will find Campbell leading a team of designers, operational support staff, and tradespeople to bring her clients’ vision to life.

Campbell acts on behalf of her clients at every step of the design process, caring for their home as if it was her own. She leverages strong working relationships with trusted vendors to execute each client’s vision.

As the daughter of a serial decorator, artist, and antique shop owner, Campbell has an innate sense of style and an eye for good design. Merging this background along with degrees in communication, education, and art history, Campbell uses these skills to successfully turn clients’ design ideas into gorgeously real spaces.

Connect with Campbell Minister

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Other Shows Mentioned:

#346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron

#547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills

#939 Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home

#282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You

#370 Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design

#374 Ellie Mroz: The Reveal Install & Working with Trades

#704 Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue

#871 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

]]> 4059 no 1004: Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet Today With Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet: Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this can't-miss episode, we welcome Sarah Daniele of MyDoma Studio and Keith Granet of Studio Designer to discuss an exciting new partnership between the two design technology companies. Sarah and Keith share valuable insights on building tools that empower designers, the benefits of strategic acquisitions, and the importance of understanding the evolving needs of the interior design industry. This episode is a must-listen for any creative entrepreneur looking to scale their business while staying connected to their community. Don't miss this inside look at a game-changing move in the design space! More About Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet Sarah Daniele: Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. Keith Granet: Keith Granet is Founder and CEO of Studio Designer, the interior design industry’s leading software company. Granet is also President of Granet & Associates, a management consulting firm formed in 1991 to provide strategic, financial, operational management and licensing services to the design industry. He is the founder of Designer Speakers’ Bureau and co-founder of The Leaders of Design. Granet is the author of the Business of Design, balancing creativity and profitability, Princeton Architectural Press 2011, The Business of Creativity, how to build the right team for success, Princeton Architectural Press 2016, and The Business of Design 10th Anniversary Edition Princeton Architectural Press 2021. Granet guest lectures at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of Southern California. Granet executive produces and hosts of Inside the Business of Design, an interview series that explores the business side of successful design practices. Granet’s vision has always been to strengthen the business side of the profession by establishing good business practices with the firms he works with, develop the profession from within, and ultimately communicate the value of design to the consumer at large. Granet is a graduate of Hartwick College (‘79) and lives with his family in Los Angeles. Connect with Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet Mydoma Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Studio Designer Instagram  Facebook  X A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Studio Designer! Other Shows Mentioned: #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what's new for you at Mydoma Studio! #119: Christmas Encore: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio Fri, 26 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet full 1004 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet: Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this can't-miss episode, we welcome Sarah Daniele of MyDoma Studio and Keith Granet of Studio Designer to discuss an exciting new partnership between the two design technology companies. Sarah and Keith share valuable insights on building tools that empower designers, the benefits of strategic acquisitions, and the importance of understanding the evolving needs of the interior design industry. This episode is a must-listen for any creative entrepreneur looking to scale their business while staying connected to their community. Don't miss this inside look at a game-changing move in the design space! More About Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet Sarah Daniele: Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. Keith Granet: Keith Granet is Founder and CEO of Studio Designer, the interior design industry’s leading software company. Granet is also President of Granet & Associates, a management consulting firm formed in 1991 to provide strategic, financial, operational management and licensing services to the design industry. He is the founder of Designer Speakers’ Bureau and co-founder of The Leaders of Design. Granet is the author of the Business of Design, balancing creativity and profitability, Princeton Architectural Press 2011, The Business of Creativity, how to build the right team for success, Princeton Architectural Press 2016, and The Business of Design 10th Anniversary Edition Princeton Architectural Press 2021. Granet guest lectures at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of Southern California. Granet executive produces and hosts of Inside the Business of Design, an interview series that explores the business side of successful design practices. Granet’s vision has always been to strengthen the business side of the profession by establishing good business practices with the firms he works with, develop the profession from within, and ultimately communicate the value of design to the consumer at large. Granet is a graduate of Hartwick College (‘79) and lives with his family in Los Angeles. Connect with Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet Mydoma Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Studio Designer Instagram  Facebook  X A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Studio Designer! Other Shows Mentioned: #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what's new for you at Mydoma Studio! #119: Christmas Encore: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio Today With Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet:

Hi! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this can't-miss episode, we welcome Sarah Daniele of MyDoma Studio and Keith Granet of Studio Designer to discuss an exciting new partnership between the two design technology companies.

Sarah and Keith share valuable insights on building tools that empower designers, the benefits of strategic acquisitions, and the importance of understanding the evolving needs of the interior design industry. This episode is a must-listen for any creative entrepreneur looking to scale their business while staying connected to their community.

Don't miss this inside look at a game-changing move in the design space!

More About Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet

Sarah Daniele:

Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast.


Keith Granet:

Keith Granet is Founder and CEO of Studio Designer, the interior design industry’s leading software company. Granet is also President of Granet & Associates, a management consulting firm formed in 1991 to provide strategic, financial, operational management and licensing services to the design industry. He is the founder of Designer Speakers’ Bureau and co-founder of The Leaders of Design. Granet is the author of the Business of Design, balancing creativity and profitability, Princeton Architectural Press 2011, The Business of Creativity, how to build the right team for success, Princeton Architectural Press 2016, and The Business of Design 10th Anniversary Edition Princeton Architectural Press 2021. Granet guest lectures at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of Southern California. Granet executive produces and hosts of Inside the Business of Design, an interview series that explores the business side of successful design practices.

Granet’s vision has always been to strengthen the business side of the profession by establishing good business practices with the firms he works with, develop the profession from within, and ultimately communicate the value of design to the consumer at large.

Granet is a graduate of Hartwick College (‘79) and lives with his family in Los Angeles.

Connect with Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet

Mydoma

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Studio Designer

Instagram 

Facebook 

X

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Studio Designer!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation

#555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business

#177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what's new for you at Mydoma Studio!

#119: Christmas Encore: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

#91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

]]> 2396 no 1003: Erin Coren and Lina Galvao: Curated Nest: Scaling an Interior Design Business to $5 Million Today With Erin Coren and Lina Galvao: Today, I am joined by Erin Coren and Lina Galvao, co-owners of the Curated Nest. With Erin as Creative Director and Lina as the Director of Business Development, Curated Nest is a complete partnership. Both ladies bring value to the table, collaborating in what has resulted in a growth of 500k to almost 5 million. Erin and Lina joined forces in 2016 and have continued to grow since then. I’m honored that they said they used this podcast's value and resources as part of their journey. Of course, they, themselves, have contributed much to their business in the form of transferable skills, talent, and professionalism. Listen in to learn their secrets to scaling! LuAnn Nigara, Erin Coren and Lina Galvao's Ah-Ha Moments “A critical part of scaling your business is hiring the right people and placing them in the right seats.” - LuAnn Nigara “It starts in the hiring process because you want to hire people who are proactive, curious, and passionate and who want to play with the tools of the trade and continuously learn.” - Lina Galvao More About Erin Coren and Lina Galvao Erin Coren: Erin holds a B.S. in Interior Design and is a NYS Certified Interior Designer, Professional member of the American Society of Interior Design, and a National Council of Interior Design Qualifications certificate holder. Lina Galvão: Lina holds a Bachelor of Science from Yale University in addition to a Masters in Public Health from Columbia University, and studied Interior Design at Fashion Institute of Technology. Prior to becoming a designer, Lina was a business consultant for healthcare organizations for ten years, with an interest in how environments can promote patients’ wellbeing. Connect with Erin Coren and Lina Galvao Website Instagram  Facebook TV Show What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #438: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence AWDB #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability AWDB #969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business AWDB #980: Power Talk Friday: Shelli Warren: Recognizing That Your Small Business Brings Value to the Right Employee AWDB #985: Han Dang and Vy Truong: The First 4 Years: Insights and Lessons AWDB 68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management AWDB 622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director AWDB 363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB 589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Erin Coren and Lina Galvao: Curated Nest: Scaling an Interior Design Business to $5 Million full 1003 LuAnn Nigara Today With Erin Coren and Lina Galvao: Today, I am joined by Erin Coren and Lina Galvao, co-owners of the Curated Nest. With Erin as Creative Director and Lina as the Director of Business Development, Curated Nest is a complete partnership. Both ladies bring value to the table, collaborating in what has resulted in a growth of 500k to almost 5 million. Erin and Lina joined forces in 2016 and have continued to grow since then. I’m honored that they said they used this podcast's value and resources as part of their journey. Of course, they, themselves, have contributed much to their business in the form of transferable skills, talent, and professionalism. Listen in to learn their secrets to scaling! LuAnn Nigara, Erin Coren and Lina Galvao's Ah-Ha Moments “A critical part of scaling your business is hiring the right people and placing them in the right seats.” - LuAnn Nigara “It starts in the hiring process because you want to hire people who are proactive, curious, and passionate and who want to play with the tools of the trade and continuously learn.” - Lina Galvao More About Erin Coren and Lina Galvao Erin Coren: Erin holds a B.S. in Interior Design and is a NYS Certified Interior Designer, Professional member of the American Society of Interior Design, and a National Council of Interior Design Qualifications certificate holder. Lina Galvão: Lina holds a Bachelor of Science from Yale University in addition to a Masters in Public Health from Columbia University, and studied Interior Design at Fashion Institute of Technology. Prior to becoming a designer, Lina was a business consultant for healthcare organizations for ten years, with an interest in how environments can promote patients’ wellbeing. Connect with Erin Coren and Lina Galvao Website Instagram  Facebook TV Show What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #438: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence AWDB #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability AWDB #969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business AWDB #980: Power Talk Friday: Shelli Warren: Recognizing That Your Small Business Brings Value to the Right Employee AWDB #985: Han Dang and Vy Truong: The First 4 Years: Insights and Lessons AWDB 68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management AWDB 622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director AWDB 363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB 589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Today With Erin Coren and Lina Galvao:

Today, I am joined by Erin Coren and Lina Galvao, co-owners of the Curated Nest. With Erin as Creative Director and Lina as the Director of Business Development, Curated Nest is a complete partnership. Both ladies bring value to the table, collaborating in what has resulted in a growth of 500k to almost 5 million.

Erin and Lina joined forces in 2016 and have continued to grow since then. I’m honored that they said they used this podcast's value and resources as part of their journey. Of course, they, themselves, have contributed much to their business in the form of transferable skills, talent, and professionalism.

Listen in to learn their secrets to scaling!

LuAnn Nigara, Erin Coren and Lina Galvao's Ah-Ha Moments

“A critical part of scaling your business is hiring the right people and placing them in the right seats.” - LuAnn Nigara

“It starts in the hiring process because you want to hire people who are proactive, curious, and passionate and who want to play with the tools of the trade and continuously learn.” - Lina Galvao

More About Erin Coren and Lina Galvao

Erin Coren:

Erin holds a B.S. in Interior Design and is a NYS Certified Interior Designer, Professional member of the American Society of Interior Design, and a National Council of Interior Design Qualifications certificate holder.

Lina Galvão:

Lina holds a Bachelor of Science from Yale University in addition to a Masters in Public Health from Columbia University, and studied Interior Design at Fashion Institute of Technology. Prior to becoming a designer, Lina was a business consultant for healthcare organizations for ten years, with an interest in how environments can promote patients’ wellbeing.

Connect with Erin Coren and Lina Galvao

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

TV Show

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #438: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence

AWDB #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability

AWDB #969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships

AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business

AWDB #980: Power Talk Friday: Shelli Warren: Recognizing That Your Small Business Brings Value to the Right Employee

AWDB #985: Han Dang and Vy Truong: The First 4 Years: Insights and Lessons

AWDB 68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management

AWDB 622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

AWDB 363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

AWDB 589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

]]> 4167 1002: Power Talk Friday: Sara Kravet: VP Furniture at Kravet Inc. Today With Sara Kravet: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm thrilled to be joined by Sara Kravet, a 5th generation member of the renowned Kravet design family. Sara shares a unique perspective, having started in the Kravet showrooms before going on to work at First Dibs, and now serving as VP of Furniture. We'll hear about the 'mandate' for Kravet family members to work elsewhere before joining the family business, and how Sara's diverse experiences have shaped her approach in her current role. Sarah offers an insider's look at the legacy and evolution of the iconic Kravet brand. This is a can't-miss conversation for any design enthusiast! More About Sara Kravet Sara Kravet is the Vice President of Furniture at Kravet Inc., having joined the family business in 2011. Sara is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied art history. After graduating, she worked for 1stdibs in New York, honing her love for antique furniture. Sara then moved her life to Boston, where she currently lives with her husband and two daughters, and fell in love with the city’s sense of historicism and fall leaves. Sara has spent the last thirteen years learning the ins and outs of the Kravet Inc. family business through a sales lens in the Boston Kravet showroom and becoming an integral part of the New England design community. Sara joined the Kravet Inc. Furniture team eight years ago and manages product development for the Lee Jofa, Brunschwig & Fils, and Donghia brands. She oversees the Visual Merchandising team and the design of all corporate showroom floors. Sara is also a member of the Historic New England, the Royal Oak Foundation, Friends of the Public Garden and sits on the board of the DFA, Decorative Furnishings Association. Connect with Sara Kravet Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kravet Inc. Other Resources Mentioned: Don't forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. Go to kravet.com to set up an account! Other Shows Mentioned: #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc #961: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 1 #962: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 2 #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode! #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry Fri, 19 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sara Kravet: VP Furniture at Kravet Inc. full 1002 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sara Kravet: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm thrilled to be joined by Sara Kravet, a 5th generation member of the renowned Kravet design family. Sara shares a unique perspective, having started in the Kravet showrooms before going on to work at First Dibs, and now serving as VP of Furniture. We'll hear about the 'mandate' for Kravet family members to work elsewhere before joining the family business, and how Sara's diverse experiences have shaped her approach in her current role. Sarah offers an insider's look at the legacy and evolution of the iconic Kravet brand. This is a can't-miss conversation for any design enthusiast! More About Sara Kravet Sara Kravet is the Vice President of Furniture at Kravet Inc., having joined the family business in 2011. Sara is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied art history. After graduating, she worked for 1stdibs in New York, honing her love for antique furniture. Sara then moved her life to Boston, where she currently lives with her husband and two daughters, and fell in love with the city’s sense of historicism and fall leaves. Sara has spent the last thirteen years learning the ins and outs of the Kravet Inc. family business through a sales lens in the Boston Kravet showroom and becoming an integral part of the New England design community. Sara joined the Kravet Inc. Furniture team eight years ago and manages product development for the Lee Jofa, Brunschwig & Fils, and Donghia brands. She oversees the Visual Merchandising team and the design of all corporate showroom floors. Sara is also a member of the Historic New England, the Royal Oak Foundation, Friends of the Public Garden and sits on the board of the DFA, Decorative Furnishings Association. Connect with Sara Kravet Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kravet Inc. Other Resources Mentioned: Don't forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. Go to kravet.com to set up an account! Other Shows Mentioned: #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc #961: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 1 #962: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 2 #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode! #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry Today With Sara Kravet:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm thrilled to be joined by Sara Kravet, a 5th generation member of the renowned Kravet design family. Sara shares a unique perspective, having started in the Kravet showrooms before going on to work at First Dibs, and now serving as VP of Furniture.

We'll hear about the 'mandate' for Kravet family members to work elsewhere before joining the family business, and how Sara's diverse experiences have shaped her approach in her current role. Sarah offers an insider's look at the legacy and evolution of the iconic Kravet brand. This is a can't-miss conversation for any design enthusiast!

More About Sara Kravet

Sara Kravet is the Vice President of Furniture at Kravet Inc., having joined the family business in 2011. Sara is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied art history. After graduating, she worked for 1stdibs in New York, honing her love for antique furniture. Sara then moved her life to Boston, where she currently lives with her husband and two daughters, and fell in love with the city’s sense of historicism and fall leaves. Sara has spent the last thirteen years learning the ins and outs of the Kravet Inc. family business through a sales lens in the Boston Kravet showroom and becoming an integral part of the New England design community. Sara joined the Kravet Inc. Furniture team eight years ago and manages product development for the Lee Jofa, Brunschwig & Fils, and Donghia brands. She oversees the Visual Merchandising team and the design of all corporate showroom floors. Sara is also a member of the Historic New England, the Royal Oak Foundation, Friends of the Public Garden and sits on the board of the DFA, Decorative Furnishings Association.

Connect with Sara Kravet

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Kravet Inc.

Other Resources Mentioned:

Don't forget to use our AWDB10 code for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. Go to kravet.com to set up an account!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc

#961: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 1

#962: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 2

#100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!

#360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited

#446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry

]]> 4014 no 1001: Nicole Roe: How Having Your Own In-House Receiving Warehouse Can Improve Your Projects Today With Nicole Roe: Today with Nicole Roe, we're discussing her decision to open an in-house receiving warehouse for her design firm, R. Nickson Interiors. Nicole shares her journey from the challenges she faced working with third-party receiving companies to the process of establishing her own warehouse, including vetting the idea, analyzing costs, and finding the perfect space. In this episode, Nicole dives discusses the numerous benefits of having an in-house warehouse, such as increased control over the receiving process, the ability to close more deals, and providing a higher level of service to her clients. Her story is an inspiring example of how thinking outside the box and being willing to innovate can set your design business apart from the competition. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Roe's Ah-Ha Moments “It's one of those moments where people look at you, and then they look at you again. And they're like, Oh, this is actually an option. And for those that want that full service experience that don't want boxes coming to their door, that don't want to have to move stuff around, that don't want to have to meet the wallpaper installer, like their lives are literally changed.” - Nicole Roe  “You were finding these people out there because even though they had never done it before, it was only because it was never offered to them before and they just needed to know that it was available…and with those people come people like them.” - LuAnn Nigara “You're trading the stress of not having control with the stress of having control.” - Nicole Roe More About Nicole Roe Nicole is the founder of R. Nikson Interiors and has over 10 years of experience in the design field. With a degree in Building Construction from Georgia Tech, internship with a luxury developer, worked for a team of construction companies heading up their business development & marketing as well as personal renovation projects. To say that Nicole recognizes the full scope of a design project would be an understatement. With hands-on experience in construction, renovations & interior design - Nicole has done it all. From floor plans to installations - Nicole understands the terminology, methods & everything included in a project rundown from start to finish. Valuing the function of space as highly as how the space looks, Nicole has an eye for design and can envision the completed project before it begins. Nicole spends her free time with her citrus grower husband, their four boys focusing on nature, exercise and renovating their own home. Nicole is never found without multiple beverages, dark chocolate or a podcast in her ear. Connect with Nicole Roe Website Instagram Facebook Tiktok What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: #620: Melissa Leclair: Figuring It Out As You Grow Your Modern Interior Design Business #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Nicole Roe: How Having Your Own In-House Receiving Warehouse Can Improve Your Projects full 1001 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nicole Roe: Today with Nicole Roe, we're discussing her decision to open an in-house receiving warehouse for her design firm, R. Nickson Interiors. Nicole shares her journey from the challenges she faced working with third-party receiving companies to the process of establishing her own warehouse, including vetting the idea, analyzing costs, and finding the perfect space. In this episode, Nicole dives discusses the numerous benefits of having an in-house warehouse, such as increased control over the receiving process, the ability to close more deals, and providing a higher level of service to her clients. Her story is an inspiring example of how thinking outside the box and being willing to innovate can set your design business apart from the competition. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Roe's Ah-Ha Moments “It's one of those moments where people look at you, and then they look at you again. And they're like, Oh, this is actually an option. And for those that want that full service experience that don't want boxes coming to their door, that don't want to have to move stuff around, that don't want to have to meet the wallpaper installer, like their lives are literally changed.” - Nicole Roe  “You were finding these people out there because even though they had never done it before, it was only because it was never offered to them before and they just needed to know that it was available…and with those people come people like them.” - LuAnn Nigara “You're trading the stress of not having control with the stress of having control.” - Nicole Roe More About Nicole Roe Nicole is the founder of R. Nikson Interiors and has over 10 years of experience in the design field. With a degree in Building Construction from Georgia Tech, internship with a luxury developer, worked for a team of construction companies heading up their business development & marketing as well as personal renovation projects. To say that Nicole recognizes the full scope of a design project would be an understatement. With hands-on experience in construction, renovations & interior design - Nicole has done it all. From floor plans to installations - Nicole understands the terminology, methods & everything included in a project rundown from start to finish. Valuing the function of space as highly as how the space looks, Nicole has an eye for design and can envision the completed project before it begins. Nicole spends her free time with her citrus grower husband, their four boys focusing on nature, exercise and renovating their own home. Nicole is never found without multiple beverages, dark chocolate or a podcast in her ear. Connect with Nicole Roe Website Instagram Facebook Tiktok What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Hiring Toolkit Bundle Other Shows Mentioned: #620: Melissa Leclair: Figuring It Out As You Grow Your Modern Interior Design Business #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things Today With Nicole Roe:

Today with Nicole Roe, we're discussing her decision to open an in-house receiving warehouse for her design firm, R. Nickson Interiors. Nicole shares her journey from the challenges she faced working with third-party receiving companies to the process of establishing her own warehouse, including vetting the idea, analyzing costs, and finding the perfect space.

In this episode, Nicole dives discusses the numerous benefits of having an in-house warehouse, such as increased control over the receiving process, the ability to close more deals, and providing a higher level of service to her clients. Her story is an inspiring example of how thinking outside the box and being willing to innovate can set your design business apart from the competition.

LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Roe's Ah-Ha Moments

“It's one of those moments where people look at you, and then they look at you again. And they're like, Oh, this is actually an option. And for those that want that full service experience that don't want boxes coming to their door, that don't want to have to move stuff around, that don't want to have to meet the wallpaper installer, like their lives are literally changed.” - Nicole Roe 

“You were finding these people out there because even though they had never done it before, it was only because it was never offered to them before and they just needed to know that it was available…and with those people come people like them.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You're trading the stress of not having control with the stress of having control.” - Nicole Roe

More About Nicole Roe

Nicole is the founder of R. Nikson Interiors and has over 10 years of experience in the design field. With a degree in Building Construction from Georgia Tech, internship with a luxury developer, worked for a team of construction companies heading up their business development & marketing as well as personal renovation projects. To say that Nicole recognizes the full scope of a design project would be an understatement. With hands-on experience in construction, renovations & interior design - Nicole has done it all.

From floor plans to installations - Nicole understands the terminology, methods & everything included in a project rundown from start to finish. Valuing the function of space as highly as how the space looks, Nicole has an eye for design and can envision the completed project before it begins.

Nicole spends her free time with her citrus grower husband, their four boys focusing on nature, exercise and renovating their own home. Nicole is never found without multiple beverages, dark chocolate or a podcast in her ear.

Connect with Nicole Roe

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Other Shows Mentioned:

#620: Melissa Leclair: Figuring It Out As You Grow Your Modern Interior Design Business

#786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

#986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

]]> 4175 no 1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! Today With LuAnn Nigara: We made it to the 1000th episode of A Well-Design Business, and can I just say...wow?!! What a road it has been! It really is incredible to have 1000 episodes under my belt. I can't express enough how honored I am to have met and interviewed so many wonderful people in this industry, many of whom have become lifelong friends. I also want to express my immense gratitude to JudeCharles for taking the time for this interview and expertly guiding me in sharing my story. Jude has played such a valuable role in my life, both professionally and personally. Eight years ago, I had an idea of what this podcast could become, and I am so grateful that it has succeeded in that — and so much more. The most unexpected and amazing benefit has been the relationships formed here. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to meet you, my listeners, and also collaborate with the experts and designers. I'm so excited for you to tune in to this special episode. It's the story of my journey every step of the way, along with the top takeaways from the show so far. And, of course, we have some laughs! Thank you all for the amazing support and for sticking with me for 1000 episodes! I am looking forward to celebrating 1000 more with you! Always remember: Decide to be excellent! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Jude Charles’ Storytelling for Interior Designers A Well-Designed Business® Docuseries Hamilton Creatives Glory and Brand Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #519: What Would Lu Do?: In Light of the Coronavirus AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand AWDB #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos AWDB #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals Fri, 12 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles! full 1000 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: We made it to the 1000th episode of A Well-Design Business, and can I just say...wow?!! What a road it has been! It really is incredible to have 1000 episodes under my belt. I can't express enough how honored I am to have met and interviewed so many wonderful people in this industry, many of whom have become lifelong friends. I also want to express my immense gratitude to JudeCharles for taking the time for this interview and expertly guiding me in sharing my story. Jude has played such a valuable role in my life, both professionally and personally. Eight years ago, I had an idea of what this podcast could become, and I am so grateful that it has succeeded in that — and so much more. The most unexpected and amazing benefit has been the relationships formed here. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to meet you, my listeners, and also collaborate with the experts and designers. I'm so excited for you to tune in to this special episode. It's the story of my journey every step of the way, along with the top takeaways from the show so far. And, of course, we have some laughs! Thank you all for the amazing support and for sticking with me for 1000 episodes! I am looking forward to celebrating 1000 more with you! Always remember: Decide to be excellent! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Jude Charles’ Storytelling for Interior Designers A Well-Designed Business® Docuseries Hamilton Creatives Glory and Brand Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #519: What Would Lu Do?: In Light of the Coronavirus AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand AWDB #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos AWDB #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals Today With LuAnn Nigara:

We made it to the 1000th episode of A Well-Design Business, and can I just say...wow?!! What a road it has been!

It really is incredible to have 1000 episodes under my belt. I can't express enough how honored I am to have met and interviewed so many wonderful people in this industry, many of whom have become lifelong friends.

I also want to express my immense gratitude to JudeCharles for taking the time for this interview and expertly guiding me in sharing my story. Jude has played such a valuable role in my life, both professionally and personally.

Eight years ago, I had an idea of what this podcast could become, and I am so grateful that it has succeeded in that — and so much more. The most unexpected and amazing benefit has been the relationships formed here. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to meet you, my listeners, and also collaborate with the experts and designers.

I'm so excited for you to tune in to this special episode. It's the story of my journey every step of the way, along with the top takeaways from the show so far. And, of course, we have some laughs! Thank you all for the amazing support and for sticking with me for 1000 episodes! I am looking forward to celebrating 1000 more with you!

Always remember: Decide to be excellent!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Jude Charles’ Storytelling for Interior Designers

A Well-Designed Business® Docuseries

Hamilton Creatives

Glory and Brand

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

AWDB #519: What Would Lu Do?: In Light of the Coronavirus

AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

AWDB #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

AWDB #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos

AWDB #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals

]]> 5597 no 999: Faith Fix: Built to Last: Navigating Your Design Business for the Long Term Today With Faith Fix: Today with Faith Fix, we’re discussing the journey of building and growing a successful, sellable interior design firm. As the founder of Freestyle Interiors, Faith shares her 40+ years of experience as an interior designer and business owner, offering valuable insights on growing a design team, developing a strong succession planning strategy, and preparing your business for a seamless transition when the time comes to sell. Learn how Faith navigated the process of selling her business and discover the key factors that contributed to her success. LuAnn Nigara and Faith Fix's Ah-Ha Moments “You are the essence of the point of my podcast—it’s that your talent alone is not going to be the indicator of your ability to grow and have a successful design firm, it's the business back end, that is going to be, you know, the biggest indicator of that and the talent and the other things can layer in.” - LuAnn Nigara “I realized early on that I was growing kind of a larger firm than typical, I wasn't solo with just a few designers. And so I started thinking about succession planning, probably 10 years ago, just to little seeds of what's going to happen.” - Faith Fix More About Faith Fix Faith Fix, founder of Freestyle Interiors in 1981, has over 40 years of interior design experience. Faith is a Florida licensed Interior Designer a well as Florida licensed Certified Public Accountant and an ASID Interior Designer. She has directed Freestyle’s growth to become a prominent SW Florida award-winning design studio. Faith has assembled a highly synergistic team of talented and experienced Lead Designers dedicated to creating beautiful environments. Many of the area’s top architects, developers and builders have come to trust and rely on Faith and her team for their proactive, responsive communication throughout the design/build process as well as the quality of their design. Faith oversees all of the design work and operations at the Freestyle design studio in Bonita Springs to ensure an unsurpassed quality of design and level of service for all of her clients. The fact that most of Freestyle’s work is repeat business speaks for itself. Connect with Faith Fix Website Instagram Facebook Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Chairman Of The Board with LuAnn Other Shows Mentioned: #468: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Micciche: Why Every Business Needs a Succession Plan #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #855: Power Talk Friday: Hunter Lowder: Is it Time for a Fractional COO? WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Faith Fix: Built to Last: Navigating Your Design Business for the Long Term full 999 LuAnn Nigara Today With Faith Fix: Today with Faith Fix, we’re discussing the journey of building and growing a successful, sellable interior design firm. As the founder of Freestyle Interiors, Faith shares her 40+ years of experience as an interior designer and business owner, offering valuable insights on growing a design team, developing a strong succession planning strategy, and preparing your business for a seamless transition when the time comes to sell. Learn how Faith navigated the process of selling her business and discover the key factors that contributed to her success. LuAnn Nigara and Faith Fix's Ah-Ha Moments “You are the essence of the point of my podcast—it’s that your talent alone is not going to be the indicator of your ability to grow and have a successful design firm, it's the business back end, that is going to be, you know, the biggest indicator of that and the talent and the other things can layer in.” - LuAnn Nigara “I realized early on that I was growing kind of a larger firm than typical, I wasn't solo with just a few designers. And so I started thinking about succession planning, probably 10 years ago, just to little seeds of what's going to happen.” - Faith Fix More About Faith Fix Faith Fix, founder of Freestyle Interiors in 1981, has over 40 years of interior design experience. Faith is a Florida licensed Interior Designer a well as Florida licensed Certified Public Accountant and an ASID Interior Designer. She has directed Freestyle’s growth to become a prominent SW Florida award-winning design studio. Faith has assembled a highly synergistic team of talented and experienced Lead Designers dedicated to creating beautiful environments. Many of the area’s top architects, developers and builders have come to trust and rely on Faith and her team for their proactive, responsive communication throughout the design/build process as well as the quality of their design. Faith oversees all of the design work and operations at the Freestyle design studio in Bonita Springs to ensure an unsurpassed quality of design and level of service for all of her clients. The fact that most of Freestyle’s work is repeat business speaks for itself. Connect with Faith Fix Website Instagram Facebook Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Chairman Of The Board with LuAnn Other Shows Mentioned: #468: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Micciche: Why Every Business Needs a Succession Plan #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #855: Power Talk Friday: Hunter Lowder: Is it Time for a Fractional COO? WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? Today With Faith Fix:

Today with Faith Fix, we’re discussing the journey of building and growing a successful, sellable interior design firm. As the founder of Freestyle Interiors, Faith shares her 40+ years of experience as an interior designer and business owner, offering valuable insights on growing a design team, developing a strong succession planning strategy, and preparing your business for a seamless transition when the time comes to sell. Learn how Faith navigated the process of selling her business and discover the key factors that contributed to her success.

LuAnn Nigara and Faith Fix's Ah-Ha Moments

“You are the essence of the point of my podcast—it’s that your talent alone is not going to be the indicator of your ability to grow and have a successful design firm, it's the business back end, that is going to be, you know, the biggest indicator of that and the talent and the other things can layer in.” - LuAnn Nigara

“I realized early on that I was growing kind of a larger firm than typical, I wasn't solo with just a few designers. And so I started thinking about succession planning, probably 10 years ago, just to little seeds of what's going to happen.” - Faith Fix

More About Faith Fix

Faith Fix, founder of Freestyle Interiors in 1981, has over 40 years of interior design experience. Faith is a Florida licensed Interior Designer a well as Florida licensed Certified Public Accountant and an ASID Interior Designer. She has directed Freestyle’s growth to become a prominent SW Florida award-winning design studio. Faith has assembled a highly synergistic team of talented and experienced Lead Designers dedicated to creating beautiful environments.

Many of the area’s top architects, developers and builders have come to trust and rely on Faith and her team for their proactive, responsive communication throughout the design/build process as well as the quality of their design.

Faith oversees all of the design work and operations at the Freestyle design studio in Bonita Springs to ensure an unsurpassed quality of design and level of service for all of her clients. The fact that most of Freestyle’s work is repeat business speaks for itself.

Connect with Faith Fix

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Houzz

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Chairman Of The Board with LuAnn

Other Shows Mentioned:

#468: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Micciche: Why Every Business Needs a Succession Plan

#492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

#622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

#855: Power Talk Friday: Hunter Lowder: Is it Time for a Fractional COO?

WTFP #43: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell?

]]> 4245 no 998: Power Talk Friday: Bryan Short: A New Window Treatment Option that Balances Quality and Affordability Today With Bryan Short: Today we're diving into the world of product development with Bryan Short of The Sewing Loft of Avon! The Sewing Loft specializes in custom soft furnishings like window treatments, cushions, pillows, and more. As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats - from project prep to marketing to client experience. Recently, Bryan and his wife Rachel launched SLA Express - a semi-custom drapery line designed exclusively for interior designers. We're excited to have Bryan join us today to talk all about bringing a new product to market while maintaining strong client relationships. Whether you're in the window treatment industry or any other design field, this conversation is full of valuable insights! LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Short's Ah-Ha Moments “The thinking really stems from years of listening to our trade clients” - Bryan Short “The first and most important thing is to figure out who am I selling this to and who is going to care enough about it.” - Bryan Short More About Bryan Short Bryan Short is a former litigation attorney who joined his wife as co-owner of The Sewing Loft of Avon in 2013. The Sewing Loft specializes in fabricating custom soft furnishings, such as window treatments, indoor/outdoor cushions, pillows and slipcovers. Their primary clients are members of the interior design industry and homeowners. As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats but concentrates on prepping projects for fabrication, marketing, client acquisition and retention, customer experience and long-term planning. In addition to his work at The Sewing Loft, Bryan is the current CT chapter president of the Interior Design Society, a national organization dedicated to education and business growing of members of the interior design industry. Connect with Bryan Short Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Episode 1,000th Giveaway! Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #58: Bryan Short: The Value of Business Coaching for a Window Treatment Professional Fri, 05 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Bryan Short: A New Window Treatment Option that Balances Quality and Affordability full 998 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bryan Short: Today we're diving into the world of product development with Bryan Short of The Sewing Loft of Avon! The Sewing Loft specializes in custom soft furnishings like window treatments, cushions, pillows, and more. As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats - from project prep to marketing to client experience. Recently, Bryan and his wife Rachel launched SLA Express - a semi-custom drapery line designed exclusively for interior designers. We're excited to have Bryan join us today to talk all about bringing a new product to market while maintaining strong client relationships. Whether you're in the window treatment industry or any other design field, this conversation is full of valuable insights! LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Short's Ah-Ha Moments “The thinking really stems from years of listening to our trade clients” - Bryan Short “The first and most important thing is to figure out who am I selling this to and who is going to care enough about it.” - Bryan Short More About Bryan Short Bryan Short is a former litigation attorney who joined his wife as co-owner of The Sewing Loft of Avon in 2013. The Sewing Loft specializes in fabricating custom soft furnishings, such as window treatments, indoor/outdoor cushions, pillows and slipcovers. Their primary clients are members of the interior design industry and homeowners. As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats but concentrates on prepping projects for fabrication, marketing, client acquisition and retention, customer experience and long-term planning. In addition to his work at The Sewing Loft, Bryan is the current CT chapter president of the Interior Design Society, a national organization dedicated to education and business growing of members of the interior design industry. Connect with Bryan Short Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Episode 1,000th Giveaway! Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #58: Bryan Short: The Value of Business Coaching for a Window Treatment Professional Today With Bryan Short:

Today we're diving into the world of product development with Bryan Short of The Sewing Loft of Avon!

The Sewing Loft specializes in custom soft furnishings like window treatments, cushions, pillows, and more. As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats - from project prep to marketing to client experience.

Recently, Bryan and his wife Rachel launched SLA Express - a semi-custom drapery line designed exclusively for interior designers. We're excited to have Bryan join us today to talk all about bringing a new product to market while maintaining strong client relationships.

Whether you're in the window treatment industry or any other design field, this conversation is full of valuable insights!

LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Short's Ah-Ha Moments

“The thinking really stems from years of listening to our trade clients” - Bryan Short

“The first and most important thing is to figure out who am I selling this to and who is going to care enough about it.” - Bryan Short

More About Bryan Short

Bryan Short is a former litigation attorney who joined his wife as co-owner of The Sewing Loft of Avon in 2013. The Sewing Loft specializes in fabricating custom soft furnishings, such as window treatments, indoor/outdoor cushions, pillows and slipcovers. Their primary clients are members of the interior design industry and homeowners.

As a co-owner, Bryan wears many hats but concentrates on prepping projects for fabrication, marketing, client acquisition and retention, customer experience and long-term planning. In addition to his work at The Sewing Loft, Bryan is the current CT chapter president of the Interior Design Society, a national organization dedicated to education and business growing of members of the interior design industry.

Connect with Bryan Short

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Episode 1,000th Giveaway!

Other Shows Mentioned:

WTFP #58: Bryan Short: The Value of Business Coaching for a Window Treatment Professional

]]> 4511 no 997: Hema Persad: Getting Published in Magazines That Align With Your Designs, With the Help of a PR Person Today With Hema Persad: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio. After only two years, Hema has quite the accolades under her belt. She has print placements in Architectural Digest, Rue Magazine, and House Beautiful. Hema was also included in AD's New American Voices list in July 2023. If you have ever shied away from spending a percentage of your revenue on marketing or PR, this will be a valuable episode for you. Hema and I discuss switching careers, if and how to hire a PR person, and how much you should spend on marketing, to name a few. LuAnn Nigara and Hema Persad's Ah-Ha Moments “It took me 15 years from my previous careers to learn the skills to grow a design business. So if I had graduated from design school at 25, I would not have had that experience. I would not have learned about entrepreneurship and marketing. It would have taken me 15 years anyway to learn it all,” - Hema Persad “I had no confidence as an interior designer. It took my PR person seeing something in me in the beginning and then taking my work and knowing where to place and where it belonged, not just being a blanket pitch to ‘AD’ and ‘Domino’ Magazines,” - Hema Persad More About Hema Persad A native of Toronto, Canada, Hema was a practicing attorney for several years before following her heart and pursuing a career in fashion. In 2014, she moved to Los Angeles to chase her goal, and spent the following 7 years dressing A-list celebrities, styling ad campaigns and editorials, and working with some of the top fashion talent in the world. Completely self-taught, Hema's interior design career began in 2021 when one of her styling clients asked for help decorating their home. Because of her eye for design and ability to execute her creative vision, that first project snowballed into several more. Hema now designs residential and commercial spaces around the country. As the business continued to grow rapidly, it became clear that it needed its own identity apart from Hema. In 2022 Sagrada Studio was born out of her belief that there is no more sacred (“sagrada”) space on earth than where we live and create. The Sagrada Studio mission is to honor these sacred spaces by helping clients find their own version of timeless, always with an eye towards culture, luxury, and comfort. When she’s not working, Hema loves traveling, and discovering L.A. with her husband Ganesh, and their three daughters. Connect with Hema Persad Website Instagram  TikTok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success Tue, 02 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Hema Persad: Getting Published in Magazines That Align With Your Designs, With the Help of a PR Person full 997 LuAnn Nigara Today With Hema Persad: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio. After only two years, Hema has quite the accolades under her belt. She has print placements in Architectural Digest, Rue Magazine, and House Beautiful. Hema was also included in AD's New American Voices list in July 2023. If you have ever shied away from spending a percentage of your revenue on marketing or PR, this will be a valuable episode for you. Hema and I discuss switching careers, if and how to hire a PR person, and how much you should spend on marketing, to name a few. LuAnn Nigara and Hema Persad's Ah-Ha Moments “It took me 15 years from my previous careers to learn the skills to grow a design business. So if I had graduated from design school at 25, I would not have had that experience. I would not have learned about entrepreneurship and marketing. It would have taken me 15 years anyway to learn it all,” - Hema Persad “I had no confidence as an interior designer. It took my PR person seeing something in me in the beginning and then taking my work and knowing where to place and where it belonged, not just being a blanket pitch to ‘AD’ and ‘Domino’ Magazines,” - Hema Persad More About Hema Persad A native of Toronto, Canada, Hema was a practicing attorney for several years before following her heart and pursuing a career in fashion. In 2014, she moved to Los Angeles to chase her goal, and spent the following 7 years dressing A-list celebrities, styling ad campaigns and editorials, and working with some of the top fashion talent in the world. Completely self-taught, Hema's interior design career began in 2021 when one of her styling clients asked for help decorating their home. Because of her eye for design and ability to execute her creative vision, that first project snowballed into several more. Hema now designs residential and commercial spaces around the country. As the business continued to grow rapidly, it became clear that it needed its own identity apart from Hema. In 2022 Sagrada Studio was born out of her belief that there is no more sacred (“sagrada”) space on earth than where we live and create. The Sagrada Studio mission is to honor these sacred spaces by helping clients find their own version of timeless, always with an eye towards culture, luxury, and comfort. When she’s not working, Hema loves traveling, and discovering L.A. with her husband Ganesh, and their three daughters. Connect with Hema Persad Website Instagram  TikTok Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success Today With Hema Persad:

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio. After only two years, Hema has quite the accolades under her belt. She has print placements in Architectural Digest, Rue Magazine, and House Beautiful. Hema was also included in AD's New American Voices list in July 2023.

If you have ever shied away from spending a percentage of your revenue on marketing or PR, this will be a valuable episode for you. Hema and I discuss switching careers, if and how to hire a PR person, and how much you should spend on marketing, to name a few.

LuAnn Nigara and Hema Persad's Ah-Ha Moments

“It took me 15 years from my previous careers to learn the skills to grow a design business. So if I had graduated from design school at 25, I would not have had that experience. I would not have learned about entrepreneurship and marketing. It would have taken me 15 years anyway to learn it all,” - Hema Persad

“I had no confidence as an interior designer. It took my PR person seeing something in me in the beginning and then taking my work and knowing where to place and where it belonged, not just being a blanket pitch to ‘AD’ and ‘Domino’ Magazines,” - Hema Persad

More About Hema Persad

A native of Toronto, Canada, Hema was a practicing attorney for several years before following her heart and pursuing a career in fashion. In 2014, she moved to Los Angeles to chase her goal, and spent the following 7 years dressing A-list celebrities, styling ad campaigns and editorials, and working with some of the top fashion talent in the world.

Completely self-taught, Hema's interior design career began in 2021 when one of her styling clients asked for help decorating their home. Because of her eye for design and ability to execute her creative vision, that first project snowballed into several more. Hema now designs residential and commercial spaces around the country. As the business continued to grow rapidly, it became clear that it needed its own identity apart from Hema. In 2022 Sagrada Studio was born out of her belief that there is no more sacred (“sagrada”) space on earth than where we live and create. The Sagrada Studio mission is to honor these sacred spaces by helping clients find their own version of timeless, always with an eye towards culture, luxury, and comfort.

When she’s not working, Hema loves traveling, and discovering L.A. with her husband Ganesh, and their three daughters.

Connect with Hema Persad

Website

Instagram 

TikTok

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward

AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm

AWDB #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man

AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

AWDB #967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success

]]> 4057 no 996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience Today With Katie Decker-Erickson: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I have the amazing Katie Decker-Erickson. Her company, Color Works, has helped interior designers build the businesses they desire. Her knowledge has led her to coach others, all while balancing her personal life. With her, today We are exploring the importance of finding your 'happy spot' in business. More About Katie Decker-Erickson Katie began her career in commercial color consulting as a part-time passion project in 2007. Today, her company, Color Works has grown into a multi-million dollar commercial design company, currently operating in over 20 states nationwide, with a fully remote team of more than a dozen individuals. Katie is known for her business acumen (having grown 1500% in a single year), passion for teaching others (with 18 years teaching graduate and undergraduate courses) and this is what led her to coach other interior designers who want to scale their business to their lifestyle. She is also a mom and devoted to her two young daughters with a commitment to women's empowerment both personally and professionally. Connect with Katie Decker-Erickson Color Works Firm: Website Instagram Facebook X LinkedIn Color Works Coaching: Website Coaching Resources Instagram Facebook YouTube Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Colorful Conversations: Networking Tips for Interior Designers with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Fri, 28 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience full 996 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie Decker-Erickson: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I have the amazing Katie Decker-Erickson. Her company, Color Works, has helped interior designers build the businesses they desire. Her knowledge has led her to coach others, all while balancing her personal life. With her, today We are exploring the importance of finding your 'happy spot' in business. More About Katie Decker-Erickson Katie began her career in commercial color consulting as a part-time passion project in 2007. Today, her company, Color Works has grown into a multi-million dollar commercial design company, currently operating in over 20 states nationwide, with a fully remote team of more than a dozen individuals. Katie is known for her business acumen (having grown 1500% in a single year), passion for teaching others (with 18 years teaching graduate and undergraduate courses) and this is what led her to coach other interior designers who want to scale their business to their lifestyle. She is also a mom and devoted to her two young daughters with a commitment to women's empowerment both personally and professionally. Connect with Katie Decker-Erickson Color Works Firm: Website Instagram Facebook X LinkedIn Color Works Coaching: Website Coaching Resources Instagram Facebook YouTube Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Colorful Conversations: Networking Tips for Interior Designers with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: #960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Today With Katie Decker-Erickson:

Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I have the amazing Katie Decker-Erickson. Her company, Color Works, has helped interior designers build the businesses they desire. Her knowledge has led her to coach others, all while balancing her personal life. With her, today We are exploring the importance of finding your 'happy spot' in business.

More About Katie Decker-Erickson

Katie began her career in commercial color consulting as a part-time passion project in 2007. Today, her company, Color Works has grown into a multi-million dollar commercial design company, currently operating in over 20 states nationwide, with a fully remote team of more than a dozen individuals. Katie is known for her business acumen (having grown 1500% in a single year), passion for teaching others (with 18 years teaching graduate and undergraduate courses) and this is what led her to coach other interior designers who want to scale their business to their lifestyle. She is also a mom and devoted to her two young daughters with a commitment to women's empowerment both personally and professionally.

Connect with Katie Decker-Erickson

Color Works Firm:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

X

LinkedIn

Color Works Coaching:

Website

Coaching Resources

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Colorful Conversations: Networking Tips for Interior Designers with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Other Shows Mentioned:

#960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse

#839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years

]]> 4688 no 995: Jenny Yi: Discovering a Business When Your Life Is Falling Apart Today With Jenny Yi: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I talk a lot on the show about goals, drive, motivation, and having a willingness to just go out and make things happen. But what about when that doesn’t feel possible? What about when your life is in a crisis, or you’re struggling with your mental health, or it feels like work just to get out of bed, let alone tackle the long list of things to do that entrepreneurship requires? That is a different beast altogether—and it’s a beast that my guest today, Jenny Yi, understands all too well. Jenny’s story is a powerful one—one that I think we all need to hear, but one that is especially important for any of you out there who are struggling, whether life has just kicked you down or you’re coping with something heavy. LuAnn Nigara and Jenny Yi's Ah-Ha Moments “You were telling me all the things you do in the Jenny Yi empire. But then you got quiet and you said, ‘but It's important to me to give the path of ownership and entrepreneurship to somebody else who's out there that wants the control of our own destiny.’” -LuAnn “There's one thing I want your listeners to understand and know that it doesn't matter where you are right now—it gets better. Life gets good, even when you can't see it, even when you can't imagine it, even when you can't predict it, even when people talk about how to envision good lives and you just can’t.” -Jenny More About Jenny Yi Jenny Yi is a vibrant traveling designer who has taken the world of hospitality by storm. With a discerning eye for transforming hotels and Airbnb spaces, Jenny’s firm specializes in makeovers that captivate guests and leave them yearning for more. Her three-figure portfolio showcases her unrivaled talent in crafting unforgettable experiences through innovative design. Not only has Jenny made her mark in the industry with her makeovers, but she has also expanded her influence with her very own hospitality bedding line, setting the standard for luxurious comfort and problem-solving automation for hosts. Her exceptional work has been featured on platforms such as Biggerpockets, Millennial Millionaire, STR Insider, and Voyage, cementing her reputation as a go-to expert in the field. With a growing following of 50,000 loyal admirers, Jenny's designs have inspired countless individuals to reimagine their own spaces. Connect with Jenny Yi Website Email Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Get 20% off your first three months with Mydoma Studio by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Other Shows Mentioned: #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #386: Wendy Glaister: Not All Challenges Are Design Related #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #523: Leah Meyer Perez: Overcoming Fears and Insecurities #715: Kathleen Jennison: From Trauma to Triumph in Interior Design Tue, 25 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Jenny Yi: Discovering a Business When Your Life Is Falling Apart full 995 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jenny Yi: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I talk a lot on the show about goals, drive, motivation, and having a willingness to just go out and make things happen. But what about when that doesn’t feel possible? What about when your life is in a crisis, or you’re struggling with your mental health, or it feels like work just to get out of bed, let alone tackle the long list of things to do that entrepreneurship requires? That is a different beast altogether—and it’s a beast that my guest today, Jenny Yi, understands all too well. Jenny’s story is a powerful one—one that I think we all need to hear, but one that is especially important for any of you out there who are struggling, whether life has just kicked you down or you’re coping with something heavy. LuAnn Nigara and Jenny Yi's Ah-Ha Moments “You were telling me all the things you do in the Jenny Yi empire. But then you got quiet and you said, ‘but It's important to me to give the path of ownership and entrepreneurship to somebody else who's out there that wants the control of our own destiny.’” -LuAnn “There's one thing I want your listeners to understand and know that it doesn't matter where you are right now—it gets better. Life gets good, even when you can't see it, even when you can't imagine it, even when you can't predict it, even when people talk about how to envision good lives and you just can’t.” -Jenny More About Jenny Yi Jenny Yi is a vibrant traveling designer who has taken the world of hospitality by storm. With a discerning eye for transforming hotels and Airbnb spaces, Jenny’s firm specializes in makeovers that captivate guests and leave them yearning for more. Her three-figure portfolio showcases her unrivaled talent in crafting unforgettable experiences through innovative design. Not only has Jenny made her mark in the industry with her makeovers, but she has also expanded her influence with her very own hospitality bedding line, setting the standard for luxurious comfort and problem-solving automation for hosts. Her exceptional work has been featured on platforms such as Biggerpockets, Millennial Millionaire, STR Insider, and Voyage, cementing her reputation as a go-to expert in the field. With a growing following of 50,000 loyal admirers, Jenny's designs have inspired countless individuals to reimagine their own spaces. Connect with Jenny Yi Website Email Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Get 20% off your first three months with Mydoma Studio by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Other Shows Mentioned: #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #386: Wendy Glaister: Not All Challenges Are Design Related #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #523: Leah Meyer Perez: Overcoming Fears and Insecurities #715: Kathleen Jennison: From Trauma to Triumph in Interior Design Today With Jenny Yi:

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I talk a lot on the show about goals, drive, motivation, and having a willingness to just go out and make things happen. But what about when that doesn’t feel possible?

What about when your life is in a crisis, or you’re struggling with your mental health, or it feels like work just to get out of bed, let alone tackle the long list of things to do that entrepreneurship requires? That is a different beast altogether—and it’s a beast that my guest today, Jenny Yi, understands all too well.

Jenny’s story is a powerful one—one that I think we all need to hear, but one that is especially important for any of you out there who are struggling, whether life has just kicked you down or you’re coping with something heavy.

LuAnn Nigara and Jenny Yi's Ah-Ha Moments

“You were telling me all the things you do in the Jenny Yi empire. But then you got quiet and you said, ‘but It's important to me to give the path of ownership and entrepreneurship to somebody else who's out there that wants the control of our own destiny.’” -LuAnn

“There's one thing I want your listeners to understand and know that it doesn't matter where you are right now—it gets better. Life gets good, even when you can't see it, even when you can't imagine it, even when you can't predict it, even when people talk about how to envision good lives and you just can’t.” -Jenny

More About Jenny Yi

Jenny Yi is a vibrant traveling designer who has taken the world of hospitality by storm. With a discerning eye for transforming hotels and Airbnb spaces, Jenny’s firm specializes in makeovers that captivate guests and leave them yearning for more. Her three-figure portfolio showcases her unrivaled talent in crafting unforgettable experiences through innovative design.

Not only has Jenny made her mark in the industry with her makeovers, but she has also expanded her influence with her very own hospitality bedding line, setting the standard for luxurious comfort and problem-solving automation for hosts. Her exceptional work has been featured on platforms such as Biggerpockets, Millennial Millionaire, STR Insider, and Voyage, cementing her reputation as a go-to expert in the field. With a growing following of 50,000 loyal admirers, Jenny's designs have inspired countless individuals to reimagine their own spaces.

Connect with Jenny Yi

Website

Email

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Get 20% off your first three months with Mydoma Studio by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

Other Shows Mentioned:

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

#386: Wendy Glaister: Not All Challenges Are Design Related

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#523: Leah Meyer Perez: Overcoming Fears and Insecurities

#715: Kathleen Jennison: From Trauma to Triumph in Interior Design

]]> 3893 994: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Revel Woods: How Creating Meaningful Strategic Partnerships Leads to Success. Today With John Dupra: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back John Dupra of Revel Woods.  John also gives great tips on how he has had strategic partnerships in his business from the beginning, which he will even say is why he is still here today. He shares how to leverage those relationships in your business and the tactical strategies to make the most of them and show up as an excellent strategic partner. There is definitely a “right” way to develop and maintain these relationships, and if you are wondering how, John’s brain is the one you will want to pick on this topic. LuAnn Nigara and John Dupra's Ah-Ha Moments: “Part of what I've been able to do and what many successful people do is increase your luck surface area. You're not going to be able to brute force your way into everything all the time. Sometimes, you will randomly be at an event, a party, or a LuAnn Live, and meet somebody who will change your life and career forever,” - John Dupra “When you’re within a respectful partnership, you’re doing something for them, and the next day they are doing something for you, and nobody is keeping score.” - LuAnnn Nigara More About John Dupra John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY. John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution. It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before. His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it. Connect with John Dupra Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Revel Woods Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra – Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program AWDB: #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business AWDB: #632: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Taking The Fear Out of Flooring for Interior Designers AWDB: 709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business AWDB: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB: #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation AWDB: #883: Power Talk Friday: Aubre Fox: Increase Your Profit and Create Your Own Flooring Collection With Revel Woods AWDB: #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects AWDB: #951: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects AWDB: #919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects AWDB: #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Revel Woods: How Creating Meaningful Strategic Partnerships Leads to Success. full 994 LuAnn Nigara Today With John Dupra: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back John Dupra of Revel Woods.  John also gives great tips on how he has had strategic partnerships in his business from the beginning, which he will even say is why he is still here today. He shares how to leverage those relationships in your business and the tactical strategies to make the most of them and show up as an excellent strategic partner. There is definitely a “right” way to develop and maintain these relationships, and if you are wondering how, John’s brain is the one you will want to pick on this topic. LuAnn Nigara and John Dupra's Ah-Ha Moments: “Part of what I've been able to do and what many successful people do is increase your luck surface area. You're not going to be able to brute force your way into everything all the time. Sometimes, you will randomly be at an event, a party, or a LuAnn Live, and meet somebody who will change your life and career forever,” - John Dupra “When you’re within a respectful partnership, you’re doing something for them, and the next day they are doing something for you, and nobody is keeping score.” - LuAnnn Nigara More About John Dupra John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY. John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution. It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before. His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it. Connect with John Dupra Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Revel Woods Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra – Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program AWDB: #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business AWDB: #632: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Taking The Fear Out of Flooring for Interior Designers AWDB: 709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business AWDB: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB: #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation AWDB: #883: Power Talk Friday: Aubre Fox: Increase Your Profit and Create Your Own Flooring Collection With Revel Woods AWDB: #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects AWDB: #951: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects AWDB: #919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects AWDB: #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Today With John Dupra:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back John Dupra of Revel Woods. 

John also gives great tips on how he has had strategic partnerships in his business from the beginning, which he will even say is why he is still here today. He shares how to leverage those relationships in your business and the tactical strategies to make the most of them and show up as an excellent strategic partner.

There is definitely a “right” way to develop and maintain these relationships, and if you are wondering how, John’s brain is the one you will want to pick on this topic.

LuAnn Nigara and John Dupra's Ah-Ha Moments:

“Part of what I've been able to do and what many successful people do is increase your luck surface area. You're not going to be able to brute force your way into everything all the time. Sometimes, you will randomly be at an event, a party, or a LuAnn Live, and meet somebody who will change your life and career forever,” - John Dupra

“When you’re within a respectful partnership, you’re doing something for them, and the next day they are doing something for you, and nobody is keeping score.” - LuAnnn Nigara

More About John Dupra

John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY.

John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution.

It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before.

His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it.

Connect with John Dupra

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Revel Woods

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB: #329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra – Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program

AWDB: #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business

AWDB: #632: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Taking The Fear Out of Flooring for Interior Designers

AWDB: 709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business

AWDB: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

AWDB: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

AWDB: #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation

AWDB: #883: Power Talk Friday: Aubre Fox: Increase Your Profit and Create Your Own Flooring Collection With Revel Woods

AWDB: #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

AWDB: #951: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects

AWDB: #919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects

AWDB: #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

]]> 4748 no 993: Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals Today With Libby Langdon: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in licensing…but how do you set yourself up for deals? Where do you find an agent? And how do you create something companies will be interested in? My guest today, Libby Langdon, has carved out success for herself in licensing, making it not just a one-off collection but an ongoing, viable revenue stream. Today, she’s here to share her tips for how designers can set themselves up for licensing partnerships. LuAnn Nigara and Libby Langdon's Ah-Ha Moments “You have to have a promotional platform of some sort. It’s paramount. There’s absolutely no reason for a manufacturer to partner with a designer unless the designer has a voice, has an audience, knows their lane, and is ready to get out and promote it. They need to know that you can bring them a new audience.” -Libby “You have to have self-awareness and bring new unique ideas to the table. But it also has to be designed at a price point that fits the company you’re working for.” -LuAnn More About Libby Langdon Libby Langdon is an interior designer, author, product designer and makeover television personality, as well as the creative force behind New York City–based design firm Libby Interiors, Inc. She is known for her “Easy, Elegant, Everyday Style,” as well as her licensed home-furnishing collections, including a complete home collection of upholstery and casegoods for Fairfield Chair, lighting for Crystorama, artwork for Paragon, and accessories for A&B Home. Her interior design work and home products have been featured in leading shelter magazines, including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Hamptons Cottages & Gardens, Better Homes and Gardens, and Woman’s Day. Langdon has been a regular design expert on NBC’s TODAY Show, HGTV’s Small Space, Big Style, The View, The Rachael Ray Show, The Early Show and NBC’s Open House. Langdon travels the country presenting her design seminars to consumers, designers, and retailers about all things design. Connect with Libby Langdon Website Instagram  Facebook  YouTube Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Libby Langdon: How to Create Long-term Income from Licensing Deals full 993 LuAnn Nigara Today With Libby Langdon: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in licensing…but how do you set yourself up for deals? Where do you find an agent? And how do you create something companies will be interested in? My guest today, Libby Langdon, has carved out success for herself in licensing, making it not just a one-off collection but an ongoing, viable revenue stream. Today, she’s here to share her tips for how designers can set themselves up for licensing partnerships. LuAnn Nigara and Libby Langdon's Ah-Ha Moments “You have to have a promotional platform of some sort. It’s paramount. There’s absolutely no reason for a manufacturer to partner with a designer unless the designer has a voice, has an audience, knows their lane, and is ready to get out and promote it. They need to know that you can bring them a new audience.” -Libby “You have to have self-awareness and bring new unique ideas to the table. But it also has to be designed at a price point that fits the company you’re working for.” -LuAnn More About Libby Langdon Libby Langdon is an interior designer, author, product designer and makeover television personality, as well as the creative force behind New York City–based design firm Libby Interiors, Inc. She is known for her “Easy, Elegant, Everyday Style,” as well as her licensed home-furnishing collections, including a complete home collection of upholstery and casegoods for Fairfield Chair, lighting for Crystorama, artwork for Paragon, and accessories for A&B Home. Her interior design work and home products have been featured in leading shelter magazines, including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Hamptons Cottages & Gardens, Better Homes and Gardens, and Woman’s Day. Langdon has been a regular design expert on NBC’s TODAY Show, HGTV’s Small Space, Big Style, The View, The Rachael Ray Show, The Early Show and NBC’s Open House. Langdon travels the country presenting her design seminars to consumers, designers, and retailers about all things design. Connect with Libby Langdon Website Instagram  Facebook  YouTube Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle Today With Libby Langdon:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in licensing…but how do you set yourself up for deals? Where do you find an agent? And how do you create something companies will be interested in?

My guest today, Libby Langdon, has carved out success for herself in licensing, making it not just a one-off collection but an ongoing, viable revenue stream. Today, she’s here to share her tips for how designers can set themselves up for licensing partnerships.

LuAnn Nigara and Libby Langdon's Ah-Ha Moments

“You have to have a promotional platform of some sort. It’s paramount. There’s absolutely no reason for a manufacturer to partner with a designer unless the designer has a voice, has an audience, knows their lane, and is ready to get out and promote it. They need to know that you can bring them a new audience.” -Libby

“You have to have self-awareness and bring new unique ideas to the table. But it also has to be designed at a price point that fits the company you’re working for.” -LuAnn

More About Libby Langdon

Libby Langdon is an interior designer, author, product designer and makeover television personality, as well as the creative force behind New York City–based design firm Libby Interiors, Inc. She is known for her “Easy, Elegant, Everyday Style,” as well as her licensed home-furnishing collections, including a complete home collection of upholstery and casegoods for Fairfield Chair, lighting for Crystorama, artwork for Paragon, and accessories for A&B Home. Her interior design work and home products have been featured in leading shelter magazines, including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Hamptons Cottages & Gardens, Better Homes and Gardens, and Woman’s Day. Langdon has been a regular design expert on NBC’s TODAY Show, HGTV’s Small Space, Big Style, The View, The Rachael Ray Show, The Early Show and NBC’s Open House. Langdon travels the country presenting her design seminars to consumers, designers, and retailers about all things design.

Connect with Libby Langdon

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

YouTube

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle

]]> 4236 no 992: On Air Strategy Sessions: Laura Koshel: Solidifying Roles and SOPs when You Want to Scale Today With Laura Koshel: Today’s Power Talk Friday is another episode of our Live, On-Air Strategy Sessions! I am welcoming Laura Koshel, the owner and principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC. Laura wants to know what she should know about scaling her business and her team. Learn how having wonderful employees is a great beginning but having clarity is among you is the key. Listen in to see what I mean. LuAnn Nigara and Laura Koshel's Ah-Ha Moments: “If you plan on having a team of five to eight employees, you need to clarify your standards in an SOP, so every step is clear and accessible,” - LuAnn Nigara “When you have a documented process that explains to your employees how you do things, along with weekly check -ins, things rarely wiggy,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Laura Koshel Laura Koshel is the owner and the principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC. Laura was born in Lithuania and grew up in St Petersburg, Russia. When Laura moved to USA in 2005, she decided to nurture her creative and organizational skills by joining a national decorating franchise and becoming an independent interior decorator. It was a great learning journey for someone coming into the interior design industry, with basic sales skills, and new to the American culture. 2008 came and hit the young business hard. In 2010 Laura and her husband welcomed their son. They decided to close the franchise and dedicate Laura’s next 5 years to raising their son. In 2015 Laura longed to go back to the interior design industry, and so established LK Design. Today, together with her two assistants, Laura helps her clients to navigate their residential and light commercial design projects with ease. LK Design has been voted by readers of the Durham Magazine Best of Durham 6 years in a row. For Laura, the most joyful work moments are when a job is done well, clients are happy, expectations are exceeded, trades and vendors are treated with respect, as well as seeing how her team grows professionally. She credits her own growth in part to the openness of the industry today and to the resources available to the designers, including LuAnn’s podcast, that were not available decades ago. When work and life balance is in place, Laura enjoys family and social times, variety of physical activities, including endurance sports, travel, sailing, reading, cooking, and moments when the mind wonders around. Connect with Laura Koshel Website Instagram  Facebook  Houzz Yelp What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate AWDB #825 Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Sessions: Laura Koshel: Solidifying Roles and SOPs when You Want to Scale full 992 LuAnn Nigara Today With Laura Koshel: Today’s Power Talk Friday is another episode of our Live, On-Air Strategy Sessions! I am welcoming Laura Koshel, the owner and principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC. Laura wants to know what she should know about scaling her business and her team. Learn how having wonderful employees is a great beginning but having clarity is among you is the key. Listen in to see what I mean. LuAnn Nigara and Laura Koshel's Ah-Ha Moments: “If you plan on having a team of five to eight employees, you need to clarify your standards in an SOP, so every step is clear and accessible,” - LuAnn Nigara “When you have a documented process that explains to your employees how you do things, along with weekly check -ins, things rarely wiggy,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Laura Koshel Laura Koshel is the owner and the principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC. Laura was born in Lithuania and grew up in St Petersburg, Russia. When Laura moved to USA in 2005, she decided to nurture her creative and organizational skills by joining a national decorating franchise and becoming an independent interior decorator. It was a great learning journey for someone coming into the interior design industry, with basic sales skills, and new to the American culture. 2008 came and hit the young business hard. In 2010 Laura and her husband welcomed their son. They decided to close the franchise and dedicate Laura’s next 5 years to raising their son. In 2015 Laura longed to go back to the interior design industry, and so established LK Design. Today, together with her two assistants, Laura helps her clients to navigate their residential and light commercial design projects with ease. LK Design has been voted by readers of the Durham Magazine Best of Durham 6 years in a row. For Laura, the most joyful work moments are when a job is done well, clients are happy, expectations are exceeded, trades and vendors are treated with respect, as well as seeing how her team grows professionally. She credits her own growth in part to the openness of the industry today and to the resources available to the designers, including LuAnn’s podcast, that were not available decades ago. When work and life balance is in place, Laura enjoys family and social times, variety of physical activities, including endurance sports, travel, sailing, reading, cooking, and moments when the mind wonders around. Connect with Laura Koshel Website Instagram  Facebook  Houzz Yelp What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate AWDB #825 Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business Today With Laura Koshel:

Today’s Power Talk Friday is another episode of our Live, On-Air Strategy Sessions!

I am welcoming Laura Koshel, the owner and principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC.

Laura wants to know what she should know about scaling her business and her team. Learn how having wonderful employees is a great beginning but having clarity is among you is the key. Listen in to see what I mean.

LuAnn Nigara and Laura Koshel's Ah-Ha Moments:

“If you plan on having a team of five to eight employees, you need to clarify your standards in an SOP, so every step is clear and accessible,” - LuAnn Nigara

“When you have a documented process that explains to your employees how you do things, along with weekly check -ins, things rarely wiggy,” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Laura Koshel

Laura Koshel is the owner and the principal designer at LK Design, an interior design firm based in Durham, NC. Laura was born in Lithuania and grew up in St Petersburg, Russia. When Laura moved to USA in 2005, she decided to nurture her creative and organizational skills by joining a national decorating franchise and becoming an independent interior decorator. It was a great learning journey for someone coming into the interior design industry, with basic sales skills, and new to the American culture. 2008 came and hit the young business hard. In 2010 Laura and her husband welcomed their son. They decided to close the franchise and dedicate Laura’s next 5 years to raising their son. In 2015 Laura longed to go back to the interior design industry, and so established LK Design.

Today, together with her two assistants, Laura helps her clients to navigate their residential and light commercial design projects with ease. LK Design has been voted by readers of the Durham Magazine Best of Durham 6 years in a row.

For Laura, the most joyful work moments are when a job is done well, clients are happy, expectations are exceeded, trades and vendors are treated with respect, as well as seeing how her team grows professionally. She credits her own growth in part to the openness of the industry today and to the resources available to the designers, including LuAnn’s podcast, that were not available decades ago.

When work and life balance is in place, Laura enjoys family and social times, variety of physical activities, including endurance sports, travel, sailing, reading, cooking, and moments when the mind wonders around.

Connect with Laura Koshel

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Houzz

Yelp

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

LuAnn's Hiring Toolkit Bundle

Power Talk Friday Tour

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

AWDB #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

AWDB #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

AWDB #825 Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm – Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business

]]> 4672 991: Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design Today With Chloe Bullock: Today with Chloe Bullock, we explore the world of sustainable and conscious interior design. As an award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer based in Brighton, UK, Chloe shares her journey from being my first ever coaching client to becoming a pioneer in vegan and sustainable design. In this episode, Chloe reflects on finding her authentic voice and niche in sustainable design, and we discuss her new book, "Sustainable Interior Design." Chloe's passion for educating clients and fellow designers about the power of making conscious choices shines through as she shares insights on embracing the circular economy, supporting local craftsmanship, and aligning personal values with design practice. She emphasizes the ripple effect that even small sustainable choices can have on the industry as a whole. LuAnn Nigara and Chloe Bullock's Ah-Ha Moments “Don't be afraid to claim your niche. You're so much louder in a small space — when it's the space that means something to you.” - LuAnn Nigara “I think sustainability can be quite complicated, but actually, in places, it's super simple. And half the time we're doing a lot of these things already.” - Chloe Bullock “I don't want to bring that [misery] to my clients when I can bring them next generation materials…bio based materials, things that are problem solving and beautiful and have lovely storytelling — because we all love to tell a story about the things that we have around us in our homes.” - Chloe Bullock More About Chloe Bullock Brighton's award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer® Offering advice and design of low impact interiors, products and communities. Working to improve the sustainability of fellow designers work and businesses, and manufacturers on their products. Working within the circular economy and avoiding the use of animals, delivering healthy spaces centred around the humans using them. Design where nature and humans thrive. Connect with Chloe Bullock Website Chloe's Book 'Sustainable Interior Design' commissioned by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Instagram LinkedIn Resources Interior Design Declares UK designers join  Other countries - set up a Declare for your country  BIID Sustainable Specifying Guide British Institute of Interior Design Deborah Di Mare's website: Vegan Design What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour Mydoma: Get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #82: Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #282: Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #526: Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757: Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative #965: Mona Nahm: Equitable Design for People and the Planet Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Chloe Bullock: Conscious Design full 991 LuAnn Nigara Today With Chloe Bullock: Today with Chloe Bullock, we explore the world of sustainable and conscious interior design. As an award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer based in Brighton, UK, Chloe shares her journey from being my first ever coaching client to becoming a pioneer in vegan and sustainable design. In this episode, Chloe reflects on finding her authentic voice and niche in sustainable design, and we discuss her new book, "Sustainable Interior Design." Chloe's passion for educating clients and fellow designers about the power of making conscious choices shines through as she shares insights on embracing the circular economy, supporting local craftsmanship, and aligning personal values with design practice. She emphasizes the ripple effect that even small sustainable choices can have on the industry as a whole. LuAnn Nigara and Chloe Bullock's Ah-Ha Moments “Don't be afraid to claim your niche. You're so much louder in a small space — when it's the space that means something to you.” - LuAnn Nigara “I think sustainability can be quite complicated, but actually, in places, it's super simple. And half the time we're doing a lot of these things already.” - Chloe Bullock “I don't want to bring that [misery] to my clients when I can bring them next generation materials…bio based materials, things that are problem solving and beautiful and have lovely storytelling — because we all love to tell a story about the things that we have around us in our homes.” - Chloe Bullock More About Chloe Bullock Brighton's award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer® Offering advice and design of low impact interiors, products and communities. Working to improve the sustainability of fellow designers work and businesses, and manufacturers on their products. Working within the circular economy and avoiding the use of animals, delivering healthy spaces centred around the humans using them. Design where nature and humans thrive. Connect with Chloe Bullock Website Chloe's Book 'Sustainable Interior Design' commissioned by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Instagram LinkedIn Resources Interior Design Declares UK designers join  Other countries - set up a Declare for your country  BIID Sustainable Specifying Guide British Institute of Interior Design Deborah Di Mare's website: Vegan Design What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour Mydoma: Get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #82: Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #282: Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #526: Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757: Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative #965: Mona Nahm: Equitable Design for People and the Planet Today With Chloe Bullock:

Today with Chloe Bullock, we explore the world of sustainable and conscious interior design. As an award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer based in Brighton, UK, Chloe shares her journey from being my first ever coaching client to becoming a pioneer in vegan and sustainable design.

In this episode, Chloe reflects on finding her authentic voice and niche in sustainable design, and we discuss her new book, "Sustainable Interior Design." Chloe's passion for educating clients and fellow designers about the power of making conscious choices shines through as she shares insights on embracing the circular economy, supporting local craftsmanship, and aligning personal values with design practice. She emphasizes the ripple effect that even small sustainable choices can have on the industry as a whole.

LuAnn Nigara and Chloe Bullock's Ah-Ha Moments

“Don't be afraid to claim your niche. You're so much louder in a small space — when it's the space that means something to you.” - LuAnn Nigara

“I think sustainability can be quite complicated, but actually, in places, it's super simple. And half the time we're doing a lot of these things already.” - Chloe Bullock

“I don't want to bring that [misery] to my clients when I can bring them next generation materials…bio based materials, things that are problem solving and beautiful and have lovely storytelling — because we all love to tell a story about the things that we have around us in our homes.” - Chloe Bullock

More About Chloe Bullock

Brighton's award-winning, B Corp Certified, BIID Registered Interior Designer®

Offering advice and design of low impact interiors, products and communities. Working to improve the sustainability of fellow designers work and businesses, and manufacturers on their products.

Working within the circular economy and avoiding the use of animals, delivering healthy spaces centred around the humans using them. Design where nature and humans thrive.

Connect with Chloe Bullock

Website

Chloe's Book 'Sustainable Interior Design' commissioned by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

Instagram

LinkedIn

Resources

Interior Design Declares UK designers join 

Other countries - set up a Declare for your country 

BIID Sustainable Specifying Guide

British Institute of Interior Design

Deborah Di Mare's website: Vegan Design

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Mydoma: Get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

Other Shows Mentioned:

#15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

#82: Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs

#117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here!

#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#282: Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You

#526: Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary

#757: Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative

#965: Mona Nahm: Equitable Design for People and the Planet

]]> 5175 990: Power Talk Friday: 4DBiz: An Executive Team for Your Interior Design Business. Today With Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, our Power Talk Friday is sponsored by 4DBiz. We had Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz on the podcast last year to talk about the virtual assistant team division of their business, that supports your interior design business in marketing, admin, and design.  After the impressive outpour from designers, they are back to talk about the services they offer as the executive team to solidify your foundation. Pick It Apart [1:43] Evelyn and Shayna explain what the executive division of their team entails. [10:42] Shayna shares an example of when a consumer could get, what she calls, crooked.  [14:43] Evelyn provides comfort and facts for those nervous about “automation.”  [30:29] The benefits of having a team, rather than a “you” and the lesson Shayna learned. [34:12] Always thinking about your competition. [36:45] How 4DBiz’s executive team helps you build your own team. LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments: “We’re a great partnership where Shayna will help you look at your business from the lens of you as the business owner I will help you look at it from the lens of your client,” - Evelyn Roberts "As a designer, you have seven million avenues of business going on at once, but you still need to run the ship and there still needs to be an internal operation your team can live by.” - Shayna Pellino “Good design cannot be overcome by bad process.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino Shayna Rose Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry. Evelyn Roberts Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers. Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results. Evelyn’s philosophy for marketing in the interior design industry is “less is more.” Understanding the hectic interior designer/business owner lifestyle, she helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget. Connect with Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino Website Facebook  Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by 4DBiz. Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #923 Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday Sponsored Show: 4DBiz: An Executive Team for Your Interior Design Business. full 990 LuAnn Nigara Today With Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, our Power Talk Friday is sponsored by 4DBiz. We had Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz on the podcast last year to talk about the virtual assistant team division of their business, that supports your interior design business in marketing, admin, and design.  After the impressive outpour from designers, they are back to talk about the services they offer as the executive team to solidify your foundation. Pick It Apart [1:43] Evelyn and Shayna explain what the executive division of their team entails. [10:42] Shayna shares an example of when a consumer could get, what she calls, crooked.  [14:43] Evelyn provides comfort and facts for those nervous about “automation.”  [30:29] The benefits of having a team, rather than a “you” and the lesson Shayna learned. [34:12] Always thinking about your competition. [36:45] How 4DBiz’s executive team helps you build your own team. LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments: “We’re a great partnership where Shayna will help you look at your business from the lens of you as the business owner I will help you look at it from the lens of your client,” - Evelyn Roberts "As a designer, you have seven million avenues of business going on at once, but you still need to run the ship and there still needs to be an internal operation your team can live by.” - Shayna Pellino “Good design cannot be overcome by bad process.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino Shayna Rose Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry. Evelyn Roberts Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers. Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results. Evelyn’s philosophy for marketing in the interior design industry is “less is more.” Understanding the hectic interior designer/business owner lifestyle, she helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget. Connect with Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino Website Facebook  Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by 4DBiz. Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #923 Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business Today With Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino:

Today, on A Well-Designed Business, our Power Talk Friday is sponsored by 4DBiz. We had Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino of 4DBiz on the podcast last year to talk about the virtual assistant team division of their business, that supports your interior design business in marketing, admin, and design. 

After the impressive outpour from designers, they are back to talk about the services they offer as the executive team to solidify your foundation.

Pick It Apart

[1:43] Evelyn and Shayna explain what the executive division of their team entails.

[10:42] Shayna shares an example of when a consumer could get, what she calls, crooked. 

[14:43] Evelyn provides comfort and facts for those nervous about “automation.” 

[30:29] The benefits of having a team, rather than a “you” and the lesson Shayna learned.

[34:12] Always thinking about your competition.

[36:45] How 4DBiz’s executive team helps you build your own team.

LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments:

“We’re a great partnership where Shayna will help you look at your business from the lens of you as the business owner I will help you look at it from the lens of your client,” - Evelyn Roberts

"As a designer, you have seven million avenues of business going on at once, but you still need to run the ship and there still needs to be an internal operation your team can live by.” - Shayna Pellino

“Good design cannot be overcome by bad process.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino

Shayna Rose

Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner.

After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard.

In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry.


Evelyn Roberts

Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers.

Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results.

Evelyn’s philosophy for marketing in the interior design industry is “less is more.” Understanding the hectic interior designer/business owner lifestyle, she helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget.

Connect with Evelyn Roberts and Shayna Pellino

Website

Facebook 

Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors

Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by 4DBiz.

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB: #923 Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3625 no 989: Brett and Giselle Sugerman: Portraying Your Authentic Brand to Attract the Right Clients Today With Brett and Giselle Sugerman: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman, founders of B+G Design, Inc., an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm. They are here to spill the tea on their journey to success, as well as, how you can present your authentic brand to attract the right clients. LuAnn Nigara and Brett and Giselle Sugerman's Ah-Ha Moments “When we decided to open up our company, we did it for the love and the passion of our craft. We really wanted to do projects that we were excited about and that reflected our personal taste,” - Giselle Loor Sugerman More About Brett and Giselle Sugerman B+G Design, Inc. is an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm founded by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman. The highly sought-after luxury design firm is recognized for their innovative bespoke interiors that exude their signature aesthetic combining functional minimalism with a warm contemporary appeal. From their home base in Miami to projects in New York, D.C., Aspen, Los Angeles and abroad, their team’s modern and elevated designs are timeless, seamlessly blending clean lines with luxe finishes, natural materials, and pared down color palettes. Taking inspiration from their travels, Brett and Giselle incorporate their one-of-a-kind furniture and lighting designs with chic pieces and sculptural elements that translate into distinctive environments integrating form and function. Featured on NBC, CBS and HGTV, the husband-and-wife team are considered leaders in the industry, frequently sharing their design expertise across multiple media platforms. B+G projects have been featured in AD Pro, AD Mexico, Aspire, Business of Home, Casa Vogue Brazil, Florida Design, Interior Design, Luxe, Mansion Global, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times among many others. They are recipients of the Luxe magazine RED Awards for Best Interior Design; ASID South Florida Design Excellence Award and their lighting design won a Best of Year nomination with Interior Design magazine. Featured by 1st Dibs, they are on the “Designers to Watch List” and are among Ocean Home’s Top Coastal Designers. Connect with Brett and Giselle Sugerman Website B and G Unfiltered Beyond Design Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Go to kravet.com and use our code AWDB10 get 10% off on any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim The Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business WTFP #269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws WTFP #272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child Tue, 04 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Brett and Giselle Sugerman: Portraying Your Authentic Brand to Attract the Right Clients full 989 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brett and Giselle Sugerman: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman, founders of B+G Design, Inc., an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm. They are here to spill the tea on their journey to success, as well as, how you can present your authentic brand to attract the right clients. LuAnn Nigara and Brett and Giselle Sugerman's Ah-Ha Moments “When we decided to open up our company, we did it for the love and the passion of our craft. We really wanted to do projects that we were excited about and that reflected our personal taste,” - Giselle Loor Sugerman More About Brett and Giselle Sugerman B+G Design, Inc. is an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm founded by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman. The highly sought-after luxury design firm is recognized for their innovative bespoke interiors that exude their signature aesthetic combining functional minimalism with a warm contemporary appeal. From their home base in Miami to projects in New York, D.C., Aspen, Los Angeles and abroad, their team’s modern and elevated designs are timeless, seamlessly blending clean lines with luxe finishes, natural materials, and pared down color palettes. Taking inspiration from their travels, Brett and Giselle incorporate their one-of-a-kind furniture and lighting designs with chic pieces and sculptural elements that translate into distinctive environments integrating form and function. Featured on NBC, CBS and HGTV, the husband-and-wife team are considered leaders in the industry, frequently sharing their design expertise across multiple media platforms. B+G projects have been featured in AD Pro, AD Mexico, Aspire, Business of Home, Casa Vogue Brazil, Florida Design, Interior Design, Luxe, Mansion Global, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times among many others. They are recipients of the Luxe magazine RED Awards for Best Interior Design; ASID South Florida Design Excellence Award and their lighting design won a Best of Year nomination with Interior Design magazine. Featured by 1st Dibs, they are on the “Designers to Watch List” and are among Ocean Home’s Top Coastal Designers. Connect with Brett and Giselle Sugerman Website B and G Unfiltered Beyond Design Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Go to kravet.com and use our code AWDB10 get 10% off on any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim The Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business WTFP #269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws WTFP #272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child Today With Brett and Giselle Sugerman:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman, founders of B+G Design, Inc., an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm. They are here to spill the tea on their journey to success, as well as, how you can present your authentic brand to attract the right clients.

LuAnn Nigara and Brett and Giselle Sugerman's Ah-Ha Moments

“When we decided to open up our company, we did it for the love and the passion of our craft. We really wanted to do projects that we were excited about and that reflected our personal taste,” - Giselle Loor Sugerman

More About Brett and Giselle Sugerman

B+G Design, Inc. is an award-winning Miami-based interior design firm founded by Brett Sugerman and Giselle Loor Sugerman. The highly sought-after luxury design firm is recognized for their innovative bespoke interiors that exude their signature aesthetic combining functional minimalism with a warm contemporary appeal.

From their home base in Miami to projects in New York, D.C., Aspen, Los Angeles and abroad, their team’s modern and elevated designs are timeless, seamlessly blending clean lines with luxe finishes, natural materials, and pared down color palettes. Taking inspiration from their travels, Brett and Giselle incorporate their one-of-a-kind furniture and lighting designs with chic pieces and sculptural elements that translate into distinctive environments integrating form and function.

Featured on NBC, CBS and HGTV, the husband-and-wife team are considered leaders in the industry, frequently sharing their design expertise across multiple media platforms. B+G projects have been featured in AD Pro, AD Mexico, Aspire, Business of Home, Casa Vogue Brazil, Florida Design, Interior Design, Luxe, Mansion Global, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times among many others. They are recipients of the Luxe magazine RED Awards for Best Interior Design; ASID South Florida Design Excellence Award and their lighting design won a Best of Year nomination with Interior Design magazine. Featured by 1st Dibs, they are on the “Designers to Watch List” and are among Ocean Home’s Top Coastal Designers.

Connect with Brett and Giselle Sugerman

Website

B and G Unfiltered

Beyond Design

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Go to kravet.com and use our code AWDB10 get 10% off on any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography

AWDB #979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business

WTFP #269: Bound by Business: Working With the In-Laws

WTFP #272: Bound by Business: Working With a Parent or Child

]]> 2914 988: On Air Strategy Sessions: Cassandra Thurston: Building a Pipeline to go from Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Today With Cassandra Thurston: It’s another On-Air Strategy Session! Today I’m sitting down with Cassandra Thurston, a talented interior designer from Long Beach Island, NJ (my happy place). But here’s the thing…Cass Thurston Interiors is still a side hustle. Cass is ready for this business to be more, so she came to me for some help filling her pipeline. Listen to find out what she needs to do to navigate this transition and make her dreams a reality. More About Cassandra Thurston I'm Cassandra, an experienced creator of beautiful and functional home interiors that embody the coastal lifestyle. With a focus on my beloved Long Beach Island, New Jersey, I specialize in designing homes that exude a perfect blend of relaxed elegance, modern comfort, and seaside charm. My approach to coastal design is rooted in the principles of light, openness, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. By carefully curating natural materials, a soothing color palette, and thoughtfully selected furnishings, I aim to create harmonious spaces that connect with our beautiful coastal environment. I understand the unique needs and desires of second home owners on Long Beach Island, whether you seek a serene retreat to escape the city's hustle and bustle or a vibrant family gathering place for generations to come. Beyond aesthetics, I prioritize functionality and practicality in every design decision. From durable materials that can withstand the salt air environment to smart storage solutions that maximize space, I strive to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. Whether you're a longtime resident of LBI or a new owner seeking the perfect coastal sanctuary, I can help you create a home that celebrates the extraordinary beauty of LBI and the ocean that has captured our hearts. I invite you to explore my portfolio and imagine the possibilities. I would be honored to transform your home into a coastal retreat that brings you joy, serenity, and a timeless connection to the ocean. Connect with Cassandra Thurston Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: My Chairman of the Board program Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner AWDB #644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective AWDB 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process AWDB 580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders AWDB 560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process Fri, 31 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Sessions: Cassandra Thurston: Building a Pipeline to go from Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design full 988 LuAnn Nigara Today With Cassandra Thurston: It’s another On-Air Strategy Session! Today I’m sitting down with Cassandra Thurston, a talented interior designer from Long Beach Island, NJ (my happy place). But here’s the thing…Cass Thurston Interiors is still a side hustle. Cass is ready for this business to be more, so she came to me for some help filling her pipeline. Listen to find out what she needs to do to navigate this transition and make her dreams a reality. More About Cassandra Thurston I'm Cassandra, an experienced creator of beautiful and functional home interiors that embody the coastal lifestyle. With a focus on my beloved Long Beach Island, New Jersey, I specialize in designing homes that exude a perfect blend of relaxed elegance, modern comfort, and seaside charm. My approach to coastal design is rooted in the principles of light, openness, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. By carefully curating natural materials, a soothing color palette, and thoughtfully selected furnishings, I aim to create harmonious spaces that connect with our beautiful coastal environment. I understand the unique needs and desires of second home owners on Long Beach Island, whether you seek a serene retreat to escape the city's hustle and bustle or a vibrant family gathering place for generations to come. Beyond aesthetics, I prioritize functionality and practicality in every design decision. From durable materials that can withstand the salt air environment to smart storage solutions that maximize space, I strive to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. Whether you're a longtime resident of LBI or a new owner seeking the perfect coastal sanctuary, I can help you create a home that celebrates the extraordinary beauty of LBI and the ocean that has captured our hearts. I invite you to explore my portfolio and imagine the possibilities. I would be honored to transform your home into a coastal retreat that brings you joy, serenity, and a timeless connection to the ocean. Connect with Cassandra Thurston Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: My Chairman of the Board program Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner AWDB #644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People AWDB 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective AWDB 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process AWDB 580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders AWDB 560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process Today With Cassandra Thurston:

It’s another On-Air Strategy Session! Today I’m sitting down with Cassandra Thurston, a talented interior designer from Long Beach Island, NJ (my happy place). But here’s the thing…Cass Thurston Interiors is still a side hustle.

Cass is ready for this business to be more, so she came to me for some help filling her pipeline. Listen to find out what she needs to do to navigate this transition and make her dreams a reality.

More About Cassandra Thurston

I'm Cassandra, an experienced creator of beautiful and functional home interiors that embody the coastal lifestyle. With a focus on my beloved Long Beach Island, New Jersey, I specialize in designing homes that exude a perfect blend of relaxed elegance, modern comfort, and seaside charm.

My approach to coastal design is rooted in the principles of light, openness, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. By carefully curating natural materials, a soothing color palette, and thoughtfully selected furnishings, I aim to create harmonious spaces that connect with our beautiful coastal environment.

I understand the unique needs and desires of second home owners on Long Beach Island, whether you seek a serene retreat to escape the city's hustle and bustle or a vibrant family gathering place for generations to come. Beyond aesthetics, I prioritize functionality and practicality in every design decision. From durable materials that can withstand the salt air environment to smart storage solutions that maximize space, I strive to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Whether you're a longtime resident of LBI or a new owner seeking the perfect coastal sanctuary, I can help you create a home that celebrates the extraordinary beauty of LBI and the ocean that has captured our hearts.

I invite you to explore my portfolio and imagine the possibilities. I would be honored to transform your home into a coastal retreat that brings you joy, serenity, and a timeless connection to the ocean.

Connect with Cassandra Thurston

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

My Chairman of the Board program

Power Talk Friday Tour

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner

AWDB #644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers

AWDB #878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

AWDB #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

AWDB 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

AWDB 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

AWDB 580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

AWDB 560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

]]> 4339 no 987: Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche Today With Kate Wood: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Do you find yourself knowing you want a niche but not sure how to determine what makes you special? You’re far from alone—this is where so many designers get hung up.  Today’s guest, Kate Wood of Worth Preserving, went through this journey. She listened to the podcast, she took in the advice, and she tried to put everything into action, but it just wasn’t clicking together for her. Then she came to me for Chairman of the Board—and it wasn’t long before it became so clear that she was trying to do all the things she thought a designer was supposed to do, without realizing that her strengths and her passions were not traditional design.  After we tapped into what made Kate truly special, she pivoted her business entirely. She’s here to share how she discovered her niche, embraced her passion, and created something special for herself. LuAnn Nigara and Kate Wood's Ah-Ha Moments “I think it’s about believing in your own magic—what it is that you bring to a project that no one else can. Someone once said, ‘What do you do that can’t be Googled?’ That’s what it’s about.” -Kate “When my Chairman of the Boards offboard, I ask them, ‘Who’s the next person in your ear?’ Because I believe you do have to keep going, keep coaching.” -LuAnn “There’s so much knowledge and skill in the design world, and I think that my own sense of insecurity and inadequacy when it came to not having those skills was holding me back. I just had to get over it and really lean into what it is that I do know.” -Kate More About Kate Wood Preservation is my passion, rooted in a childhood spent exploring historic sites; an education in archaeology, anthropology, urban planning and historic preservation; and over 15 years’ experience as the CEO of a major organization advocating for New York City landmarks. I earned two Master’s degrees from Columbia University, where I have taught preservation planning, advocacy and law. I co-authored the book, Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York, published in two editions by Monacelli Press. I am also a licensed real estate broker. Connect with Kate Wood Website Instagram  YouTube LinkedIn Free Download "Worth Preserving: A Guide to Identifying Historic Character for Interior Designers" Book: Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? #982 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward #424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Tue, 28 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Kate Wood: Discovering and Leaning into Your Niche full 987 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate Wood: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Do you find yourself knowing you want a niche but not sure how to determine what makes you special? You’re far from alone—this is where so many designers get hung up.  Today’s guest, Kate Wood of Worth Preserving, went through this journey. She listened to the podcast, she took in the advice, and she tried to put everything into action, but it just wasn’t clicking together for her. Then she came to me for Chairman of the Board—and it wasn’t long before it became so clear that she was trying to do all the things she thought a designer was supposed to do, without realizing that her strengths and her passions were not traditional design.  After we tapped into what made Kate truly special, she pivoted her business entirely. She’s here to share how she discovered her niche, embraced her passion, and created something special for herself. LuAnn Nigara and Kate Wood's Ah-Ha Moments “I think it’s about believing in your own magic—what it is that you bring to a project that no one else can. Someone once said, ‘What do you do that can’t be Googled?’ That’s what it’s about.” -Kate “When my Chairman of the Boards offboard, I ask them, ‘Who’s the next person in your ear?’ Because I believe you do have to keep going, keep coaching.” -LuAnn “There’s so much knowledge and skill in the design world, and I think that my own sense of insecurity and inadequacy when it came to not having those skills was holding me back. I just had to get over it and really lean into what it is that I do know.” -Kate More About Kate Wood Preservation is my passion, rooted in a childhood spent exploring historic sites; an education in archaeology, anthropology, urban planning and historic preservation; and over 15 years’ experience as the CEO of a major organization advocating for New York City landmarks. I earned two Master’s degrees from Columbia University, where I have taught preservation planning, advocacy and law. I co-authored the book, Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York, published in two editions by Monacelli Press. I am also a licensed real estate broker. Connect with Kate Wood Website Instagram  YouTube LinkedIn Free Download "Worth Preserving: A Guide to Identifying Historic Character for Interior Designers" Book: Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? #982 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward #424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Today With Kate Wood:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Do you find yourself knowing you want a niche but not sure how to determine what makes you special? You’re far from alone—this is where so many designers get hung up. 

Today’s guest, Kate Wood of Worth Preserving, went through this journey. She listened to the podcast, she took in the advice, and she tried to put everything into action, but it just wasn’t clicking together for her. Then she came to me for Chairman of the Board—and it wasn’t long before it became so clear that she was trying to do all the things she thought a designer was supposed to do, without realizing that her strengths and her passions were not traditional design. 

After we tapped into what made Kate truly special, she pivoted her business entirely. She’s here to share how she discovered her niche, embraced her passion, and created something special for herself.

LuAnn Nigara and Kate Wood's Ah-Ha Moments

“I think it’s about believing in your own magic—what it is that you bring to a project that no one else can. Someone once said, ‘What do you do that can’t be Googled?’ That’s what it’s about.” -Kate

“When my Chairman of the Boards offboard, I ask them, ‘Who’s the next person in your ear?’ Because I believe you do have to keep going, keep coaching.” -LuAnn

“There’s so much knowledge and skill in the design world, and I think that my own sense of insecurity and inadequacy when it came to not having those skills was holding me back. I just had to get over it and really lean into what it is that I do know.” -Kate

More About Kate Wood

Preservation is my passion, rooted in a childhood spent exploring historic sites; an education in archaeology, anthropology, urban planning and historic preservation; and over 15 years’ experience as the CEO of a major organization advocating for New York City landmarks. I earned two Master’s degrees from Columbia University, where I have taught preservation planning, advocacy and law.

I co-authored the book, Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York, published in two editions by Monacelli Press. I am also a licensed real estate broker.

Connect with Kate Wood

Website

Instagram 

YouTube

LinkedIn

Free Download "Worth Preserving: A Guide to Identifying Historic Character for Interior Designers"

Book: Interior Landmarks: Treasures of New York

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away?

#982 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward

#424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management

#395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

#180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You

#811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 4535 no 986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things Today With Sandra Funk: Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the crucial role of setting expectations and boundaries when building a successful interior design business. Sandra shares a captivating personal story from her past that perfectly illustrates the importance of ongoing communication and reconfirmation in both personal and professional relationships. We discuss key strategies and insights from her proven process, the Interior Design Standard, which has helped countless designers create thriving, profitable firms. From defining clear project paths to maintaining regular client updates, Sandra offers invaluable advice for navigating the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the design industry.  Pick It Apart [1:45] Sandra shares the story of her “non-engagment” and a trip to the circus.  [13:55] Sandra and LuAnn discuss having expectations, and why it’s so important to remind and reconfirm them with clients throughout the interior design process. [23:59] Sandra explains the different ways she has tried to communicate her contract with clients, and how storytelling can help make it memorable. [33:40] Sandra tells LuAnn that she sends an email to every client every week no matter what. [47:16] LuAnn and Sandra discuss The Interior Design Standard and how to get started in the program. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments: “You can make all the plans and you can make all the agreements, but if it has to be reminded and reconfirmed.” - Sandra Funk “If they don't really know what the boundaries are, how can they stay in them?” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to explain your business…If it takes you more than two minutes to explain your pricing model — it's too complicated. And it'll go right over their head. Yeah. So it just has to be simple, clear, concise…And then remind and reiterate.” - Sandra Funk More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit. Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm. Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Sandra Funk and Interior Design Standard Other Shows Mentioned: #895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Other Resources Mentioned: Interior Design Standard Fri, 24 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things full 986 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sandra Funk: Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the crucial role of setting expectations and boundaries when building a successful interior design business. Sandra shares a captivating personal story from her past that perfectly illustrates the importance of ongoing communication and reconfirmation in both personal and professional relationships. We discuss key strategies and insights from her proven process, the Interior Design Standard, which has helped countless designers create thriving, profitable firms. From defining clear project paths to maintaining regular client updates, Sandra offers invaluable advice for navigating the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the design industry.  Pick It Apart [1:45] Sandra shares the story of her “non-engagment” and a trip to the circus.  [13:55] Sandra and LuAnn discuss having expectations, and why it’s so important to remind and reconfirm them with clients throughout the interior design process. [23:59] Sandra explains the different ways she has tried to communicate her contract with clients, and how storytelling can help make it memorable. [33:40] Sandra tells LuAnn that she sends an email to every client every week no matter what. [47:16] LuAnn and Sandra discuss The Interior Design Standard and how to get started in the program. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments: “You can make all the plans and you can make all the agreements, but if it has to be reminded and reconfirmed.” - Sandra Funk “If they don't really know what the boundaries are, how can they stay in them?” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to explain your business…If it takes you more than two minutes to explain your pricing model — it's too complicated. And it'll go right over their head. Yeah. So it just has to be simple, clear, concise…And then remind and reiterate.” - Sandra Funk More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit. Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm. Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Sandra Funk and Interior Design Standard Other Shows Mentioned: #895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Other Resources Mentioned: Interior Design Standard Today With Sandra Funk:

Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the crucial role of setting expectations and boundaries when building a successful interior design business. Sandra shares a captivating personal story from her past that perfectly illustrates the importance of ongoing communication and reconfirmation in both personal and professional relationships. We discuss key strategies and insights from her proven process, the Interior Design Standard, which has helped countless designers create thriving, profitable firms. From defining clear project paths to maintaining regular client updates, Sandra offers invaluable advice for navigating the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the design industry. 

Pick It Apart

[1:45] Sandra shares the story of her “non-engagment” and a trip to the circus. 

[13:55] Sandra and LuAnn discuss having expectations, and why it’s so important to remind and reconfirm them with clients throughout the interior design process.

[23:59] Sandra explains the different ways she has tried to communicate her contract with clients, and how storytelling can help make it memorable.

[33:40] Sandra tells LuAnn that she sends an email to every client every week no matter what.

[47:16] LuAnn and Sandra discuss The Interior Design Standard and how to get started in the program.

LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments:

“You can make all the plans and you can make all the agreements, but if it has to be reminded and reconfirmed.” - Sandra Funk

“If they don't really know what the boundaries are, how can they stay in them?” - LuAnn Nigara

“You have to explain your business…If it takes you more than two minutes to explain your pricing model — it's too complicated. And it'll go right over their head. Yeah. So it just has to be simple, clear, concise…And then remind and reiterate.” - Sandra Funk

More About Sandra Funk

Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit.

Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm.

Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Sandra Funk and Interior Design Standard

Other Shows Mentioned:

#895 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

#845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

Other Resources Mentioned:

Interior Design Standard

]]> 3961 no 985: Han Dang and Vy Truong: The First 4 Years: Insights and Lessons Today With Han Dang and Vy Truong: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome Han Dang of Very Handsome Studio.  Han and her business partner Vy Truong met in design school and became friends, later starting their firm in 2020 and focusing on hospitality and commercial design.  Han and Vy are an interesting duo. They describe themselves as a yin and a yang, bringing not just different personality types but also different design styles to the business. And yet, through teamwork, communication, and mutual respect, they have managed to create something special that is growing and continues to do so.  Today, Han is here to share how she and Vy have overcome obstacles, learned lessons the hard way, and continue to meet challenges and grow their business. Pick It Apart [1:42] Han shares how she learned the hard way that the details of the business are so much more than just designing.   [10:00] Han reflects on how she and Vy had to learn to embrace themselves and show up with authenticity.  [18:40] Han discusses how she and Vy discovered their “superpowers” along the way.  [24:20] Han talks about her cultural upbringing and the role it played for her.  [34:58] Han and LuAnn discuss pricing and the importance of knowing your value. [53:35] Han discusses how she wants to help her staff uncover their superpowers and play to their strengths. LuAnn Nigara, Han Dang and Vy Truong's Ah-Ha Moments “We work in a diverse area, so we have to be open to learning and adapting to every culture and the research behind those stories.” -Han “Have you learned yet that when you raise your rates, as your prices go up and you have that fear of losing the current clients, that’s exactly what’s supposed to happen? We’re leaving those clients behind and moving on to the next level. That’s exactly what raising rates is supposed to do.” -LuAnn More About Han Dang and Vy Truong Vy Truong: Vy has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry,focusing on Hospitality and Commercial Design. She provides initial grand concepts for each project and speaks through colors. Han Dang: Han has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry, focusing on Education and Commercial Design. She provides detailed insights on every project and is the queen of minimalism Connect with Han Dang and Vy Truong Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Publications Publications What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour Tue, 21 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Han Dang and Vy Truong: The First 4 Years: Insights and Lessons full 985 LuAnn Nigara Today With Han Dang and Vy Truong: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome Han Dang of Very Handsome Studio.  Han and her business partner Vy Truong met in design school and became friends, later starting their firm in 2020 and focusing on hospitality and commercial design.  Han and Vy are an interesting duo. They describe themselves as a yin and a yang, bringing not just different personality types but also different design styles to the business. And yet, through teamwork, communication, and mutual respect, they have managed to create something special that is growing and continues to do so.  Today, Han is here to share how she and Vy have overcome obstacles, learned lessons the hard way, and continue to meet challenges and grow their business. Pick It Apart [1:42] Han shares how she learned the hard way that the details of the business are so much more than just designing.   [10:00] Han reflects on how she and Vy had to learn to embrace themselves and show up with authenticity.  [18:40] Han discusses how she and Vy discovered their “superpowers” along the way.  [24:20] Han talks about her cultural upbringing and the role it played for her.  [34:58] Han and LuAnn discuss pricing and the importance of knowing your value. [53:35] Han discusses how she wants to help her staff uncover their superpowers and play to their strengths. LuAnn Nigara, Han Dang and Vy Truong's Ah-Ha Moments “We work in a diverse area, so we have to be open to learning and adapting to every culture and the research behind those stories.” -Han “Have you learned yet that when you raise your rates, as your prices go up and you have that fear of losing the current clients, that’s exactly what’s supposed to happen? We’re leaving those clients behind and moving on to the next level. That’s exactly what raising rates is supposed to do.” -LuAnn More About Han Dang and Vy Truong Vy Truong: Vy has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry,focusing on Hospitality and Commercial Design. She provides initial grand concepts for each project and speaks through colors. Han Dang: Han has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry, focusing on Education and Commercial Design. She provides detailed insights on every project and is the queen of minimalism Connect with Han Dang and Vy Truong Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Publications Publications What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Other Resources Mentioned: The Power Talk Friday Tour Today With Han Dang and Vy Truong:

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am excited to welcome Han Dang of Very Handsome Studio. 

Han and her business partner Vy Truong met in design school and became friends, later starting their firm in 2020 and focusing on hospitality and commercial design. 

Han and Vy are an interesting duo. They describe themselves as a yin and a yang, bringing not just different personality types but also different design styles to the business. And yet, through teamwork, communication, and mutual respect, they have managed to create something special that is growing and continues to do so. 

Today, Han is here to share how she and Vy have overcome obstacles, learned lessons the hard way, and continue to meet challenges and grow their business.

Pick It Apart

[1:42] Han shares how she learned the hard way that the details of the business are so much more than just designing.  

[10:00] Han reflects on how she and Vy had to learn to embrace themselves and show up with authenticity. 

[18:40] Han discusses how she and Vy discovered their “superpowers” along the way. 

[24:20] Han talks about her cultural upbringing and the role it played for her. 

[34:58] Han and LuAnn discuss pricing and the importance of knowing your value.

[53:35] Han discusses how she wants to help her staff uncover their superpowers and play to their strengths.

LuAnn Nigara, Han Dang and Vy Truong's Ah-Ha Moments

“We work in a diverse area, so we have to be open to learning and adapting to every culture and the research behind those stories.” -Han

“Have you learned yet that when you raise your rates, as your prices go up and you have that fear of losing the current clients, that’s exactly what’s supposed to happen? We’re leaving those clients behind and moving on to the next level. That’s exactly what raising rates is supposed to do.” -LuAnn

More About Han Dang and Vy Truong

Vy Truong:

Vy has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry,focusing on Hospitality

and Commercial Design. She provides initial grand concepts for each project and speaks through colors.

Han Dang:

Han has 6 years of experience in the Design Industry, focusing on Education and Commercial Design. She provides detailed insights on every project and is the queen of minimalism

Connect with Han Dang and Vy Truong

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Publications

Publications

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Power Talk Friday Tour

]]> 4513 no 984: Power Talk Friday with Katie Krimitsos: A Well-Designed Life = A Well-Designed Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/984-power-talk-friday-with-katie-krimitsos-a-well-designed-life-a-well-designed-business Today With Katie Krimitsos: Today with Katie Krimitsos, we explore the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness, especially for entrepreneurs. As the founder of the Women's Meditation Network, Katie shares her personal journey of using meditation to navigate the challenges of life, motherhood and entrepreneurship. In this episode, Katie dives deep into the practical tools and strategies she uses to stay grounded and focused, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. From the importance of creating space for self-reflection to the power of listening to your intuition, Katie offers insights for creating a well-designed life and a thriving business that truly align with your purpose. Pick It Apart [00:55] LuAnn shares the story of how she first met Katie at a podcasting conference in 2016 and how their friendship has evolved. [05:33] Katie explains how her meditation podcasts provide tools for women to get to know themselves, listen to their intuition, and make decisions to build a well-designed life and business. [12:20] Katie reads the beginning of a raw, relatable meditation she wrote about losing her temper with her child, illustrating how she creates meditations to help women process real-life experiences and emotions. [20:58] LuAnn and Katie discuss the importance of asking for help and support when you need it, and being willing to receive it, as Katie shares an example from her own life. [25:53] Katie and LuAnn explore the idea of using meditation as a tool for self-discovery and making space to hear your inner voice, not just for relaxation or sleep. [34:44] Katie emphasizes that our seasons change and our needs change, especially as entrepreneurs, encouraging finding what works for you in each moment. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Krimitsos's Ah-Ha Moments “[Meditation] is is a tool for self awareness that allows us to not be held down by the guilt or the shame of what it was and the humaneness that we're experiencing in moments, and allows us instead to open a space to this deep spiritual person that we are, and it allows that intuition to speak to us. And then we can then move forward based on what that intuition tells us, because she's always right.” - Katie Krimitsos “Taking time for…meditation exploration — that's giving the place in my mind for all of the thoughts that come during all of those activities to show up…the really important things that my goddess voice wants me to know will bubble up in that complete quiet and rest.” - LuAnn Nigara “In that recognition that you are the observer of the thoughts and not the thoughts themselves, there's an enormous amount of space that gets created there — this sort of separation…So it just allows space for that voice to start coming through and start having you pay attention to it or having you having it guide you to whatever needs to be done.” - Katie Krimitsos More About Katie Krimitsos The new beginning of the Women’s Meditation Network began when Katie was going through a painful ending. She had just discovered she was pregnant with her second daughter and all of a sudden, she knew the podcast and business she had been running was no longer for her. Confused and uncertain, she slowed down and got quiet. Within that quiet, the Women’s Meditation Network – and her daughter -was born in 2018. Never perfect and always real, Katie has been using meditation as a tool to come within so she can create an intentional life. She’s a mom of two incredible daughters, wife to a soulful husband, and loves animals so much, she won’t kill a bug. Most of her wisdom has come from the depths of pain, and her writing seeks to connect us all in this human experience. Connect with Katie Krimitsos Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #253: Katie Krimitsos – Discussing the Common Struggles of Entrepreneurship #533: Power Talk Friday: Katie Krimitsos: Listening to Ourselves #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request! Fri, 17 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday with Katie Krimitsos: A Well-Designed Life = A Well-Designed Business full 984 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie Krimitsos: Today with Katie Krimitsos, we explore the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness, especially for entrepreneurs. As the founder of the Women's Meditation Network, Katie shares her personal journey of using... Today With Katie Krimitsos: Today with Katie Krimitsos, we explore the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness, especially for entrepreneurs. As the founder of the Women's Meditation Network, Katie shares her personal journey of using meditation to navigate the challenges of life, motherhood and entrepreneurship. In this episode, Katie dives deep into the practical tools and strategies she uses to stay grounded and focused, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. From the importance of creating space for self-reflection to the power of listening to your intuition, Katie offers insights for creating a well-designed life and a thriving business that truly align with your purpose. Pick It Apart [00:55] LuAnn shares the story of how she first met Katie at a podcasting conference in 2016 and how their friendship has evolved. [05:33] Katie explains how her meditation podcasts provide tools for women to get to know themselves, listen to their intuition, and make decisions to build a well-designed life and business. [12:20] Katie reads the beginning of a raw, relatable meditation she wrote about losing her temper with her child, illustrating how she creates meditations to help women process real-life experiences and emotions. [20:58] LuAnn and Katie discuss the importance of asking for help and support when you need it, and being willing to receive it, as Katie shares an example from her own life. [25:53] Katie and LuAnn explore the idea of using meditation as a tool for self-discovery and making space to hear your inner voice, not just for relaxation or sleep. [34:44] Katie emphasizes that our seasons change and our needs change, especially as entrepreneurs, encouraging finding what works for you in each moment. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Krimitsos's Ah-Ha Moments “[Meditation] is is a tool for self awareness that allows us to not be held down by the guilt or the shame of what it was and the humaneness that we're experiencing in moments, and allows us instead to open a space to this deep spiritual person that we are, and it allows that intuition to speak to us. And then we can then move forward based on what that intuition tells us, because she's always right.” - Katie Krimitsos “Taking time for…meditation exploration — that's giving the place in my mind for all of the thoughts that come during all of those activities to show up…the really important things that my goddess voice wants me to know will bubble up in that complete quiet and rest.” - LuAnn Nigara “In that recognition that you are the observer of the thoughts and not the thoughts themselves, there's an enormous amount of space that gets created there — this sort of separation…So it just allows space for that voice to start coming through and start having you pay attention to it or having you having it guide you to whatever needs to be done.” - Katie Krimitsos More About Katie Krimitsos The new beginning of the Women’s Meditation Network began when Katie was going through a painful ending. She had just discovered she was pregnant with her second daughter and all of a sudden, she knew the podcast and business she had been running was no longer for her. Confused and uncertain, she slowed down and got quiet. Within that quiet, the Women’s Meditation Network – and her daughter -was born in 2018. Never perfect and always real, Katie has been using meditation as a tool to come within so she can create an intentional life. She’s a mom of two incredible daughters, wife to a soulful husband, and loves animals so much, she won’t kill a bug. Most of her wisdom has come from the depths of pain, and her writing seeks to connect us all in this human experience. Connect with Katie Krimitsos Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #253: Katie Krimitsos – Discussing the Common Struggles of Entrepreneurship #533: Power Talk Friday: Katie Krimitsos: Listening to Ourselves #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request! Today with Katie Krimitsos, we explore the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness, especially for entrepreneurs. As the founder of the Women's Meditation Network, Katie shares her personal journey of using meditation to navigate the challenges of life, motherhood and entrepreneurship. In this episode, Katie dives deep into the practical tools and strategies she uses to stay grounded and focused, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. From the importance of creating space for self-reflection to the power of listening to your intuition, Katie offers insights for creating a well-designed life and a thriving business that truly align with your purpose.

Pick It Apart

[00:55] LuAnn shares the story of how she first met Katie at a podcasting conference in 2016 and how their friendship has evolved.

[05:33] Katie explains how her meditation podcasts provide tools for women to get to know themselves, listen to their intuition, and make decisions to build a well-designed life and business.

[12:20] Katie reads the beginning of a raw, relatable meditation she wrote about losing her temper with her child, illustrating how she creates meditations to help women process real-life experiences and emotions.

[20:58] LuAnn and Katie discuss the importance of asking for help and support when you need it, and being willing to receive it, as Katie shares an example from her own life.

[25:53] Katie and LuAnn explore the idea of using meditation as a tool for self-discovery and making space to hear your inner voice, not just for relaxation or sleep.

[34:44] Katie emphasizes that our seasons change and our needs change, especially as entrepreneurs, encouraging finding what works for you in each moment.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie Krimitsos's Ah-Ha Moments

“[Meditation] is is a tool for self awareness that allows us to not be held down by the guilt or the shame of what it was and the humaneness that we're experiencing in moments, and allows us instead to open a space to this deep spiritual person that we are, and it allows that intuition to speak to us. And then we can then move forward based on what that intuition tells us, because she's always right.” - Katie Krimitsos

“Taking time for…meditation exploration — that's giving the place in my mind for all of the thoughts that come during all of those activities to show up…the really important things that my goddess voice wants me to know will bubble up in that complete quiet and rest.” - LuAnn Nigara

“In that recognition that you are the observer of the thoughts and not the thoughts themselves, there's an enormous amount of space that gets created there — this sort of separation…So it just allows space for that voice to start coming through and start having you pay attention to it or having you having it guide you to whatever needs to be done.” - Katie Krimitsos

More About Katie Krimitsos

The new beginning of the Women’s Meditation Network began when Katie was going through a painful ending. She had just discovered she was pregnant with her second daughter and all of a sudden, she knew the podcast and business she had been running was no longer for her. Confused and uncertain, she slowed down and got quiet. Within that quiet, the Women’s Meditation Network – and her daughter -was born in 2018.

Never perfect and always real, Katie has been using meditation as a tool to come within so she can create an intentional life. She’s a mom of two incredible daughters, wife to a soulful husband, and loves animals so much, she won’t kill a bug. Most of her wisdom has come from the depths of pain, and her writing seeks to connect us all in this human experience.

Connect with Katie Krimitsos

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:

#253: Katie Krimitsos – Discussing the Common Struggles of Entrepreneurship

#533: Power Talk Friday: Katie Krimitsos: Listening to Ourselves

#881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

#974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

Other Resources Mentioned:

Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd

Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request!

]]> 3416 no 983: Kathy Kuo: The Power Behind Establishing Core Values in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/983-kathy-kuo-the-power-behind-establishing-core-values-in-your-interior-design-business Today With Kathy Kuo: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Have you taken the time to identify your core values? To actively write them down and define what they mean to you? And if so, have you taken it a step further and pulled those values into your interactions, your hiring, your firing, and your feedback? Core values might be easy to push to the side. But if done right, they reduce conflict, make decision-making easier, and provide important clarity for your business. Today, I’m joined by Kathy Kuo to unpack core values and discuss how to embody them in your business and your processes. Pick It Apart [4:52] LuAnn and Kathy discuss the importance of values not just to you but to your clients, your employees, and the culture of your business. [12:52] LuAnn reflects on what happens when you don’t establish company values. [19:06] Kathy and LuAnn talk about how to decide which values are important enough to make the core values list. [38:36] Kathy shares the process she uses to make tough employment decisions. [47:28] Kathy discusses her design trade program and what it offers for designers. LuAnn Nigara and Kathy Kuo's Ah-Ha Moments “The real question is, are you hiring and firing based on these values, and how does that actually translate to your customers, because your clients actually buy your core values.” -Kathy “When we sat down to write out the values, I had a list of 10, which I knew was too many. And the integrator said, these are all important to your business. But this was the money line. He then asked me, what are the things you would hire and fire on? And that was the lightning bolt of clarity for me.” -LuAnn More About Kathy Kuo Kathy Kuo is the CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, a recognized tv personality, and a celebrated interior designer. Published in the press as an international guru within the home and lifestyle space, Kathy has an unmatched eye for curating, sourcing and designing luxury furniture and homewares. Today, she continues to develop the fastest growing online platform in the home and design industry. Kathy has 20+ years of experience in the home industry and now serves as a speaker and activist for female entrepreneurs. It is her mission to support women to intentionally grow and scale value-focused teams. Connect with Kathy Kuo Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  X What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #190: Kathy Kuo – How Kathy Kuo Home, the Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request! Tue, 14 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Kathy Kuo: The Power Behind Establishing Core Values in Your Interior Design Business full 983 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kathy Kuo: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Have you taken the time to identify your core values? To actively write them down and define what they mean to you? And if so, have you taken it a step further and pulled those values... Today With Kathy Kuo: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Have you taken the time to identify your core values? To actively write them down and define what they mean to you? And if so, have you taken it a step further and pulled those values into your interactions, your hiring, your firing, and your feedback? Core values might be easy to push to the side. But if done right, they reduce conflict, make decision-making easier, and provide important clarity for your business. Today, I’m joined by Kathy Kuo to unpack core values and discuss how to embody them in your business and your processes. Pick It Apart [4:52] LuAnn and Kathy discuss the importance of values not just to you but to your clients, your employees, and the culture of your business. [12:52] LuAnn reflects on what happens when you don’t establish company values. [19:06] Kathy and LuAnn talk about how to decide which values are important enough to make the core values list. [38:36] Kathy shares the process she uses to make tough employment decisions. [47:28] Kathy discusses her design trade program and what it offers for designers. LuAnn Nigara and Kathy Kuo's Ah-Ha Moments “The real question is, are you hiring and firing based on these values, and how does that actually translate to your customers, because your clients actually buy your core values.” -Kathy “When we sat down to write out the values, I had a list of 10, which I knew was too many. And the integrator said, these are all important to your business. But this was the money line. He then asked me, what are the things you would hire and fire on? And that was the lightning bolt of clarity for me.” -LuAnn More About Kathy Kuo Kathy Kuo is the CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, a recognized tv personality, and a celebrated interior designer. Published in the press as an international guru within the home and lifestyle space, Kathy has an unmatched eye for curating, sourcing and designing luxury furniture and homewares. Today, she continues to develop the fastest growing online platform in the home and design industry. Kathy has 20+ years of experience in the home industry and now serves as a speaker and activist for female entrepreneurs. It is her mission to support women to intentionally grow and scale value-focused teams. Connect with Kathy Kuo Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  X What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #190: Kathy Kuo – How Kathy Kuo Home, the Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request! Today With Kathy Kuo:

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Have you taken the time to identify your core values? To actively write them down and define what they mean to you? And if so, have you taken it a step further and pulled those values into your interactions, your hiring, your firing, and your feedback? Core values might be easy to push to the side. But if done right, they reduce conflict, make decision-making easier, and provide important clarity for your business. Today, I’m joined by Kathy Kuo to unpack core values and discuss how to embody them in your business and your processes.

Pick It Apart

[4:52] LuAnn and Kathy discuss the importance of values not just to you but to your clients, your employees, and the culture of your business.

[12:52] LuAnn reflects on what happens when you don’t establish company values.

[19:06] Kathy and LuAnn talk about how to decide which values are important enough to make the core values list.

[38:36] Kathy shares the process she uses to make tough employment decisions.

[47:28] Kathy discusses her design trade program and what it offers for designers.

LuAnn Nigara and Kathy Kuo's Ah-Ha Moments

“The real question is, are you hiring and firing based on these values, and how does that actually translate to your customers, because your clients actually buy your core values.” -Kathy

“When we sat down to write out the values, I had a list of 10, which I knew was too many. And the integrator said, these are all important to your business. But this was the money line. He then asked me, what are the things you would hire and fire on? And that was the lightning bolt of clarity for me.” -LuAnn

More About Kathy Kuo

Kathy Kuo is the CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, a recognized tv personality, and a celebrated interior designer. Published in the press as an international guru within the home and lifestyle space, Kathy has an unmatched eye for curating, sourcing and designing luxury furniture and homewares. Today, she continues to develop the fastest growing online platform in the home and design industry. Kathy has 20+ years of experience in the home industry and now serves as a speaker and activist for female entrepreneurs. It is her mission to support women to intentionally grow and scale value-focused teams.

Connect with Kathy Kuo

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

X

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:

#190: Kathy Kuo – How Kathy Kuo Home, the Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm

Other Resources Mentioned:

Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd

Join my Email List! Click here and scroll to the bottom to fill out your request!

]]> 4756 no 982: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/982-power-talk-friday-rachael-bozsik-johanson-leveraging-your-superpower-to-attract-dream-interior-design-clients Today With Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. We all know by now that we should niche, but the struggle lies in the how. What IS my only? What IS my superpower? How do I figure it out? And that’s where my guest today, Rachael Bozsik Johanson, really shines. Her superpower is finding the superpower of others and teaching them how to use it to elevate their business, their services, their marketing, and their sales process. Today, Rachael is here to share how to discover that superpower of yours, and more specifically how to take it and use it to land the right clients, market yourself strategically, and transition to the true luxury market. LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Bozsik Johanson's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of the women I work with aren’t clear on their story. And how can you expect your clients to get clear on your story if you aren’t clear on it yourself?” -Rachael “The level of detail and research that you do, and the level of what’s included in the ultimate deliverable when you work with you is incomprehensible actually.” -LuAnn More About Rachael Bozsik Johanson Rachael Bozsik Johanson is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives. Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik Johanson Website Instagram Testimonials What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Fri, 10 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Leveraging Your Superpower to Attract Dream Interior Design Clients full 982 LuAnn Nigara Today With Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.  We all know by now that we should niche, but the struggle lies in the how. What IS my only? What IS my superpower? How do I figure it... Today With Rachael Bozsik Johanson: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. We all know by now that we should niche, but the struggle lies in the how. What IS my only? What IS my superpower? How do I figure it out? And that’s where my guest today, Rachael Bozsik Johanson, really shines. Her superpower is finding the superpower of others and teaching them how to use it to elevate their business, their services, their marketing, and their sales process. Today, Rachael is here to share how to discover that superpower of yours, and more specifically how to take it and use it to land the right clients, market yourself strategically, and transition to the true luxury market. LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Bozsik Johanson's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of the women I work with aren’t clear on their story. And how can you expect your clients to get clear on your story if you aren’t clear on it yourself?” -Rachael “The level of detail and research that you do, and the level of what’s included in the ultimate deliverable when you work with you is incomprehensible actually.” -LuAnn More About Rachael Bozsik Johanson Rachael Bozsik Johanson is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives. Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik Johanson Website Instagram Testimonials What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? Other Resources Mentioned: Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd Today With Rachael Bozsik Johanson:

Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. We all know by now that we should niche, but the struggle lies in the how. What IS my only? What IS my superpower? How do I figure it out? And that’s where my guest today, Rachael Bozsik Johanson, really shines. Her superpower is finding the superpower of others and teaching them how to use it to elevate their business, their services, their marketing, and their sales process. Today, Rachael is here to share how to discover that superpower of yours, and more specifically how to take it and use it to land the right clients, market yourself strategically, and transition to the true luxury market.

LuAnn Nigara and Rachael Bozsik Johanson's Ah-Ha Moments

“A lot of the women I work with aren’t clear on their story. And how can you expect your clients to get clear on your story if you aren’t clear on it yourself?” -Rachael

“The level of detail and research that you do, and the level of what’s included in the ultimate deliverable when you work with you is incomprehensible actually.” -LuAnn

More About Rachael Bozsik Johanson

Rachael Bozsik Johanson is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field.

It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.

Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc.

Connect with Rachael Bozsik Johanson

Website

Instagram

Testimonials

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:

#830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business

#759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

#651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

#976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away?

Other Resources Mentioned:

Schwartz Design Showroom on May 22nd

]]> 4808 no 981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/981-jennifer-chukwujekwe-global-collaboration-with-nigerian-designer-and-entrepreneur Today With Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Today with Jennifer Chukwujekwe, we’re heading to Nigeria (virtually) to learn about the incredible work she is doing to transform the interior design industry in her home country. As the President of the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria and the founder, CEO, and creative director of Jenniez Designs, Jennifer shares her entrepreneurial spirit and problem-solving skills as she navigates the unique challenges faced by designers in Africa. From building a furniture factory to address sourcing issues to starting a school to educate aspiring designers, Jennifer's resourcefulness knows no bounds. She also offers valuable insights into the cultural nuances of Nigeria's 250 ethnic groups and how she adapts her design solutions to cater to these diverse needs. Throughout the episode, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of collaboration and networking within the design community, both locally and internationally. Her call to action is a powerful reminder that by working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we can all take our businesses to new heights. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Chukwujekwe's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m on a mission. I just like to solve problems. And I tell people, I only solve problems within the industry. Once it's outside the industry, I'm not interested…I'm just passionate about the industry. I'm passionate about interior design, and passionate about transforming lives and businesses to interior design.” - Jennifer Chukwujekwe “I don't think [anyone] expects each of you to be perfect…But it's taking the time to understand your client. That's what the onus is on the design industry — is to not just to make assumptions that this person has the same values and the same beliefs that you do about the items and the colors and the selections.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Chukwujekwe Jennifer Chukwujekwe is a Wife, Mother, Experienced Interior designer, Author and Coach. The first interior design business coach in Nigeria. She teaches interior designers how to build, grow and scale their business, so they can make profit, become successful and live a fulfilling life through Design. She is a three-time graduate of Commercial Interior Design, Business and Branding and Interior Design from the Interior Design Institute UK. She has a first degree in Geology and Masters in Applied Computing and IT from the University of Bedfordshire UK. A Graduate of Entrepreneurial Essentials from Harvard Business School Cohort November 2021. Prior to coaching, she launched her interior design company- Jenniez Designs. Connect with Jennifer Chukwujekwe School website Design website Instagram Instagram Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Jessica Bantom’s book: Design For Identity — Jessica Bantom - Leadership Coach & Consultant Tue, 07 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur full 981 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Today with Jennifer Chukwujekwe, we’re heading to Nigeria (virtually) to learn about the incredible work she is doing to transform the interior design industry in her home country. As the President of the Interior... Today With Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Today with Jennifer Chukwujekwe, we’re heading to Nigeria (virtually) to learn about the incredible work she is doing to transform the interior design industry in her home country. As the President of the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria and the founder, CEO, and creative director of Jenniez Designs, Jennifer shares her entrepreneurial spirit and problem-solving skills as she navigates the unique challenges faced by designers in Africa. From building a furniture factory to address sourcing issues to starting a school to educate aspiring designers, Jennifer's resourcefulness knows no bounds. She also offers valuable insights into the cultural nuances of Nigeria's 250 ethnic groups and how she adapts her design solutions to cater to these diverse needs. Throughout the episode, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of collaboration and networking within the design community, both locally and internationally. Her call to action is a powerful reminder that by working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we can all take our businesses to new heights. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Chukwujekwe's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m on a mission. I just like to solve problems. And I tell people, I only solve problems within the industry. Once it's outside the industry, I'm not interested…I'm just passionate about the industry. I'm passionate about interior design, and passionate about transforming lives and businesses to interior design.” - Jennifer Chukwujekwe “I don't think [anyone] expects each of you to be perfect…But it's taking the time to understand your client. That's what the onus is on the design industry — is to not just to make assumptions that this person has the same values and the same beliefs that you do about the items and the colors and the selections.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Chukwujekwe Jennifer Chukwujekwe is a Wife, Mother, Experienced Interior designer, Author and Coach. The first interior design business coach in Nigeria. She teaches interior designers how to build, grow and scale their business, so they can make profit, become successful and live a fulfilling life through Design. She is a three-time graduate of Commercial Interior Design, Business and Branding and Interior Design from the Interior Design Institute UK. She has a first degree in Geology and Masters in Applied Computing and IT from the University of Bedfordshire UK. A Graduate of Entrepreneurial Essentials from Harvard Business School Cohort November 2021. Prior to coaching, she launched her interior design company- Jenniez Designs. Connect with Jennifer Chukwujekwe School website Design website Instagram Instagram Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Jessica Bantom’s book: Design For Identity — Jessica Bantom - Leadership Coach & Consultant Today With Jennifer Chukwujekwe:

Today with Jennifer Chukwujekwe, we’re heading to Nigeria (virtually) to learn about the incredible work she is doing to transform the interior design industry in her home country. As the President of the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria and the founder, CEO, and creative director of Jenniez Designs, Jennifer shares her entrepreneurial spirit and problem-solving skills as she navigates the unique challenges faced by designers in Africa.

From building a furniture factory to address sourcing issues to starting a school to educate aspiring designers, Jennifer's resourcefulness knows no bounds. She also offers valuable insights into the cultural nuances of Nigeria's 250 ethnic groups and how she adapts her design solutions to cater to these diverse needs.

Throughout the episode, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of collaboration and networking within the design community, both locally and internationally. Her call to action is a powerful reminder that by working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we can all take our businesses to new heights.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Chukwujekwe's Ah-Ha Moments

“I’m on a mission. I just like to solve problems. And I tell people, I only solve problems within the industry. Once it's outside the industry, I'm not interested…I'm just passionate about the industry. I'm passionate about interior design, and passionate about transforming lives and businesses to interior design.” - Jennifer Chukwujekwe

“I don't think [anyone] expects each of you to be perfect…But it's taking the time to understand your client. That's what the onus is on the design industry — is to not just to make assumptions that this person has the same values and the same beliefs that you do about the items and the colors and the selections.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Chukwujekwe

Jennifer Chukwujekwe is a Wife, Mother, Experienced Interior designer, Author and Coach. The first interior design business coach in Nigeria.

She teaches interior designers how to build, grow and scale their business, so they can make profit, become successful and live a fulfilling life through Design.

She is a three-time graduate of Commercial Interior Design, Business and Branding and Interior Design from the Interior Design Institute UK. She has a first degree in Geology and Masters in Applied Computing and IT from the University of Bedfordshire UK. A Graduate of Entrepreneurial Essentials from Harvard Business School Cohort November 2021.

Prior to coaching, she launched her interior design company- Jenniez Designs.

Connect with Jennifer Chukwujekwe

School website

Design website

Instagram

Instagram

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday TourWatch the Docuseries!http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s BlogPower Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers

Other Resources Mentioned:

Jessica Bantom’s book: Design For Identity — Jessica Bantom - Leadership Coach & Consultant

]]> 4805 no 980: Power Talk Friday: Shelli Warren: Recognizing That Your Small Business Brings Value to the Right Employee http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/980-power-talk-friday-shelli-warren-recognizing-that-your-small-business-brings-value-to-the-right-employee Today With Shelli Warren Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Shelli Warren, distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor, and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Do you believe the misconception that success is only attached to working for a corporation? If so, you may have little faith in hiring the right team, because as you will hear from Shelli, you have much to offer the right person in the form of a career. Pick It Apart: [6:07] Shelli shares her philosophy that her clients should understand that they have value and can provide valuable careers for employees. [12:28] Before you even post a position, get clear on their job responsibilities. [16:01] When and how to build a leadership team. [20:08] How to guide someone towards making desirable decisions and being accountable. [27:54] Realizing that you may have to fire people because the pace of your business has changed and you need to bring in new hires. [48:25] When a business owner is ready to sell their business, many times it is an employee who buys it. LuAnn Nigara and Shelli Warren's Ah-Ha Moments “You can have a worthwhile career, and also offer people worthwhile careers.” - Shelli Warren “People will stay working for you when they feel connected to you or their immediate supervisor.” - Shelli Warren “The team that got you here may not be the same team to get you there.” - Shelli Warren More About Shelli Warren Shelli Warren is a distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Her expertise lies in helping small business owners develop and nurture a leadership team that can take over the daily operations of the business, enabling the owners to focus on higher-level growth decisions. Drawing from her impressive background, which includes successfully managing multi-million dollar projects for Fortune 50 corporations and iconic billion-dollar brands, Shelli has spent nearly a decade coaching business owners. Now in its fifth year, The Stacking Your Team podcast stands as a top-rated show with over 500,000 downloads. It serves as a source of inspiration and education for women leaders, guiding them on how to build capable leadership teams that can effectively provide the daily direction needed to exceed their company's clients' expectations. Connect with Shelli Warren Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Intro Call with Duke Renders Shelli’s Stacking Your Team website Shelli’s Stacking Your Team podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching AWDB #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business AWDB #707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #906 Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee. Fri, 03 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Shelli Warren: Recognizing That Your Small Business Brings Value to the Right Employee full 980 LuAnn Nigara Today With Shelli Warren Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Shelli Warren, distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor, and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Do you believe the misconception that success is only attached to... Today With Shelli Warren Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Shelli Warren, distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor, and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Do you believe the misconception that success is only attached to working for a corporation? If so, you may have little faith in hiring the right team, because as you will hear from Shelli, you have much to offer the right person in the form of a career. Pick It Apart: [6:07] Shelli shares her philosophy that her clients should understand that they have value and can provide valuable careers for employees. [12:28] Before you even post a position, get clear on their job responsibilities. [16:01] When and how to build a leadership team. [20:08] How to guide someone towards making desirable decisions and being accountable. [27:54] Realizing that you may have to fire people because the pace of your business has changed and you need to bring in new hires. [48:25] When a business owner is ready to sell their business, many times it is an employee who buys it. LuAnn Nigara and Shelli Warren's Ah-Ha Moments “You can have a worthwhile career, and also offer people worthwhile careers.” - Shelli Warren “People will stay working for you when they feel connected to you or their immediate supervisor.” - Shelli Warren “The team that got you here may not be the same team to get you there.” - Shelli Warren More About Shelli Warren Shelli Warren is a distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Her expertise lies in helping small business owners develop and nurture a leadership team that can take over the daily operations of the business, enabling the owners to focus on higher-level growth decisions. Drawing from her impressive background, which includes successfully managing multi-million dollar projects for Fortune 50 corporations and iconic billion-dollar brands, Shelli has spent nearly a decade coaching business owners. Now in its fifth year, The Stacking Your Team podcast stands as a top-rated show with over 500,000 downloads. It serves as a source of inspiration and education for women leaders, guiding them on how to build capable leadership teams that can effectively provide the daily direction needed to exceed their company's clients' expectations. Connect with Shelli Warren Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Intro Call with Duke Renders Shelli’s Stacking Your Team website Shelli’s Stacking Your Team podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching AWDB #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business AWDB #707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #906 Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee. Today With Shelli Warren

Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Shelli Warren, distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor, and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Do you believe the misconception that success is only attached to working for a corporation? If so, you may have little faith in hiring the right team, because as you will hear from Shelli, you have much to offer the right person in the form of a career.

Pick It Apart:

[6:07] Shelli shares her philosophy that her clients should understand that they have value and can provide valuable careers for employees.

[12:28] Before you even post a position, get clear on their job responsibilities.

[16:01] When and how to build a leadership team.

[20:08] How to guide someone towards making desirable decisions and being accountable.

[27:54] Realizing that you may have to fire people because the pace of your business has changed and you need to bring in new hires.

[48:25] When a business owner is ready to sell their business, many times it is an employee who buys it.

LuAnn Nigara and Shelli Warren's Ah-Ha Moments

“You can have a worthwhile career, and also offer people worthwhile careers.” - Shelli Warren

“People will stay working for you when they feel connected to you or their immediate supervisor.” - Shelli Warren

“The team that got you here may not be the same team to get you there.” - Shelli Warren

More About Shelli Warren

Shelli Warren is a distinguished Women's Leadership Advisor and the host of the Stacking Your Team podcast. Her expertise lies in helping small business owners develop and nurture a leadership team that can take over the daily operations of the business, enabling the owners to focus on higher-level growth decisions.

Drawing from her impressive background, which includes successfully managing multi-million dollar projects for Fortune 50 corporations and iconic billion-dollar brands, Shelli has spent nearly a decade coaching business owners.

Now in its fifth year, The Stacking Your Team podcast stands as a top-rated show with over 500,000 downloads. It serves as a source of inspiration and education for women leaders, guiding them on how to build capable leadership teams that can effectively provide the daily direction needed to exceed their company's clients' expectations.

Connect with Shelli Warren

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Intro Call with Duke Renders

Shelli’s Stacking Your Team website

Shelli’s Stacking Your Team podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

AWDB #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #906 Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee.

]]> 4211 no 979: Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/979-hygge-design-build-becky-and-nate-vandenbroek-on-tips-for-a-successful-designbuild-business Today With Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Hi, Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have on Becky and Nate Vandenbroek from Hygge Design+Build. If you are someone who wants to get into the design-build industry, this episode is for you. Becky and Nate know how to help designers who want to break into the design/build world and share what to consider when choosing to collaborate with builders. Both possessing Erika Ward transferable skills, Becky with her upbringing with a builder dad and Nate as a previous project manager, they ditched their 9-5 and in 2020 formed Hygge Design+Build. As you can tell, they are thriving. They are here today to explain the process of working with design/build clients, give advice to designers looking to start a relationship with a builder, as well as red flags. LuAnn Nigara and Becky and Nate Vandenbroek's Ah-Ha Moments “If you're not able to have a clear line of communication with a builder and you're not on the same page with his process, it's going to be a disaster.” - Becky Vandenbroek “If you can find a builder who doesn’t have a designer on staff and the both of you mesh well with the design aesthetic, it could be a win-win for both of you.” - Becky Vandenbroek More About Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Ok, let’s get this right out of the way…It’s pronounced who-guh even though it looks like hi-gee. Hygge Design+Build was formed in 2020 after Becky and Nate Vandenbroek decided to ditch their 9-5 and start their own design+build company in Grand Rapids, MI. Becky grew up in the construction industry while watching her dad develop land, build spec homes, and commercial properties. Nate had always been interested in building, renovating, and creating. They took their love of home building and design and turned that into what is now known as Hygge Design+Build. Hygge Design+Build homes are designed and built with a focus on creating a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and comfort. Their Hilltop Farm home was featured in the national publication of Dwell Magazine in collaboration with Marvin Windows and was awarded a National Best in American Living award by the NAHB. Their most recent project, The Slate House was chosen by Marvin Windows for their national ad campaign and will also be featured in Dwell Magazine. They are all about designing “outside of the box” when it comes to designing and building their homes. Connect with Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Duke Renders Strategy Session LuAnn University Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design-Build Process WTFP: #264 Jessica Harling: Compensation Strategies: Part 2- Installers and Administrators Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Hygge Design + Build: Becky and Nate Vandenbroek on Tips for a Successful Design/Build Business full 979 LuAnn Nigara Today With Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Hi, Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have on Becky and Nate Vandenbroek from Hygge Design+Build. If you are someone who wants to get into the design-build industry, this episode is for you. Becky and... Today With Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Hi, Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have on Becky and Nate Vandenbroek from Hygge Design+Build. If you are someone who wants to get into the design-build industry, this episode is for you. Becky and Nate know how to help designers who want to break into the design/build world and share what to consider when choosing to collaborate with builders. Both possessing Erika Ward transferable skills, Becky with her upbringing with a builder dad and Nate as a previous project manager, they ditched their 9-5 and in 2020 formed Hygge Design+Build. As you can tell, they are thriving. They are here today to explain the process of working with design/build clients, give advice to designers looking to start a relationship with a builder, as well as red flags. LuAnn Nigara and Becky and Nate Vandenbroek's Ah-Ha Moments “If you're not able to have a clear line of communication with a builder and you're not on the same page with his process, it's going to be a disaster.” - Becky Vandenbroek “If you can find a builder who doesn’t have a designer on staff and the both of you mesh well with the design aesthetic, it could be a win-win for both of you.” - Becky Vandenbroek More About Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Ok, let’s get this right out of the way…It’s pronounced who-guh even though it looks like hi-gee. Hygge Design+Build was formed in 2020 after Becky and Nate Vandenbroek decided to ditch their 9-5 and start their own design+build company in Grand Rapids, MI. Becky grew up in the construction industry while watching her dad develop land, build spec homes, and commercial properties. Nate had always been interested in building, renovating, and creating. They took their love of home building and design and turned that into what is now known as Hygge Design+Build. Hygge Design+Build homes are designed and built with a focus on creating a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and comfort. Their Hilltop Farm home was featured in the national publication of Dwell Magazine in collaboration with Marvin Windows and was awarded a National Best in American Living award by the NAHB. Their most recent project, The Slate House was chosen by Marvin Windows for their national ad campaign and will also be featured in Dwell Magazine. They are all about designing “outside of the box” when it comes to designing and building their homes. Connect with Becky and Nate Vandenbroek Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Duke Renders Strategy Session LuAnn University Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design-Build Process WTFP: #264 Jessica Harling: Compensation Strategies: Part 2- Installers and Administrators Today With Becky and Nate Vandenbroek

Hi, Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have on Becky and Nate Vandenbroek from Hygge Design+Build.

If you are someone who wants to get into the design-build industry, this episode is for you. Becky and Nate know how to help designers who want to break into the design/build world and share what to consider when choosing to collaborate with builders.

Both possessing Erika Ward transferable skills, Becky with her upbringing with a builder dad and Nate as a previous project manager, they ditched their 9-5 and in 2020 formed Hygge Design+Build.

As you can tell, they are thriving. They are here today to explain the process of working with design/build clients, give advice to designers looking to start a relationship with a builder, as well as red flags.

LuAnn Nigara and Becky and Nate Vandenbroek's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you're not able to have a clear line of communication with a builder and you're not on the same page with his process, it's going to be a disaster.” - Becky Vandenbroek

“If you can find a builder who doesn’t have a designer on staff and the both of you mesh well with the design aesthetic, it could be a win-win for both of you.” - Becky Vandenbroek

More About Becky and Nate Vandenbroek

Ok, let’s get this right out of the way…It’s pronounced who-guh even though it looks like hi-gee.

Hygge Design+Build was formed in 2020 after Becky and Nate Vandenbroek decided to ditch their 9-5 and start their own design+build company in Grand Rapids, MI. Becky grew up in the construction industry while watching her dad develop land, build spec homes, and commercial properties. Nate had always been interested in building, renovating, and creating. They took their love of home building and design and turned that into what is now known as Hygge Design+Build.

Hygge Design+Build homes are designed and built with a focus on creating a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and comfort. Their Hilltop Farm home was featured in the national publication of Dwell Magazine in collaboration with Marvin Windows and was awarded a National Best in American Living award by the NAHB. Their most recent project, The Slate House was chosen by Marvin Windows for their national ad campaign and will also be featured in Dwell Magazine.

They are all about designing “outside of the box” when it comes to designing and building their homes.

Connect with Becky and Nate Vandenbroek

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Duke Renders Strategy Session

LuAnn University

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design-Build Process

WTFP: #264 Jessica Harling: Compensation Strategies: Part 2- Installers and Administrators

]]> 4186 no 978: Power Talk Friday: LoriAnn Kuntz: How to Love (and Understand) Your Interior Design Business Numbers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/978-power-talk-friday-loriann-kuntz-how-to-love-and-understand-your-interior-design-business-numbers Today With LoriAnn Kuntz Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am excited to welcome LoriAnn Kuntz, founder of Profit Priority, a bookkeeping and financial management company for creatives. Understanding your numbers matters. But it’s equally as important to understand when and why to outsource your bookkeeping. Hear LoriAnn’s insights on why strategic bookkeping matters—and how you can take control of your numbers. LuAnn Nigara and LoriAnn Kuntz's Ah-Ha Moments “The secret to loving your numbers is to find someone who understands them.” -LoriAnn “When I work with someone, it's not just about the business, it's about them as a person. And it's about their life and their lifestyle.” -LoriAnn “It’s clear that you are willing to go down the different roads and that is the thing that we really need in a bookkeeper.” -LuAnn More About LoriAnn Kuntz Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, I saw firsthand what it was like to run a successful business. And having a good financial system and knowing the numbers was a big part of that. The opportunity to learn about money management and bookkeeping from a young age sparked what I thought was a love for accounting. I started down the traditional accounting path, but a few years into my CPA journey, I felt God calling me out of it to serve entrepreneurs differently. Connect with LoriAnn Kuntz Website Website Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork Eileen Hahn’s Website   Fri, 26 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LoriAnn Kuntz: How to Love (and Understand) Your Interior Design Business Numbers full 978 LuAnn Nigara Today With LoriAnn Kuntz Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am excited to welcome LoriAnn Kuntz, founder of Profit Priority, a bookkeeping and financial management company for creatives.  Understanding your... Today With LoriAnn Kuntz Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am excited to welcome LoriAnn Kuntz, founder of Profit Priority, a bookkeeping and financial management company for creatives. Understanding your numbers matters. But it’s equally as important to understand when and why to outsource your bookkeeping. Hear LoriAnn’s insights on why strategic bookkeping matters—and how you can take control of your numbers. LuAnn Nigara and LoriAnn Kuntz's Ah-Ha Moments “The secret to loving your numbers is to find someone who understands them.” -LoriAnn “When I work with someone, it's not just about the business, it's about them as a person. And it's about their life and their lifestyle.” -LoriAnn “It’s clear that you are willing to go down the different roads and that is the thing that we really need in a bookkeeper.” -LuAnn More About LoriAnn Kuntz Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, I saw firsthand what it was like to run a successful business. And having a good financial system and knowing the numbers was a big part of that. The opportunity to learn about money management and bookkeeping from a young age sparked what I thought was a love for accounting. I started down the traditional accounting path, but a few years into my CPA journey, I felt God calling me out of it to serve entrepreneurs differently. Connect with LoriAnn Kuntz Website Website Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork Eileen Hahn’s Website   Today With LoriAnn Kuntz

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am excited to welcome LoriAnn Kuntz, founder of Profit Priority, a bookkeeping and financial management company for creatives. Understanding your numbers matters. But it’s equally as important to understand when and why to outsource your bookkeeping. Hear LoriAnn’s insights on why strategic bookkeping matters—and how you can take control of your numbers.

LuAnn Nigara and LoriAnn Kuntz's Ah-Ha Moments

“The secret to loving your numbers is to find someone who understands them.” -LoriAnn

“When I work with someone, it's not just about the business, it's about them as a person. And it's about their life and their lifestyle.” -LoriAnn

“It’s clear that you are willing to go down the different roads and that is the thing that we really need in a bookkeeper.” -LuAnn

More About LoriAnn Kuntz

Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, I saw firsthand what it was like to run a successful business.

And having a good financial system and knowing the numbers was a big part of that.

The opportunity to learn about money management and bookkeeping from a young age sparked what I thought was a love for accounting.

I started down the traditional accounting path, but a few years into my CPA journey, I felt God calling me out of it to serve entrepreneurs differently.

Connect with LoriAnn Kuntz

Website

Website

Instagram 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim

Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork

Eileen Hahn’s Website

 

]]> 2932 no 977: Katie Ryan Pluer:Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/977-katie-ryan-pluerstrategies-for-taking-on-a-business-partner Today With Katie Ryan Pluer Today with Katie Ryan Pluer we are discussing what it takes to build a successful business partnership in the interior design industry. Katie brings a wealth of experience in business development, marketing, and advertising. She has a keen understanding of what it takes to create a profitable business, and has spent the past few years getting settled in the interior design industry as Vice President of Natasa Jones Interiors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. If you have a partner or are considering one, or if you are looking to scale your interior design business anytime soon, Katie is here to share valuable insights. We are getting into the nitty gritty of partnership — from evaluating the business and legalities to personalities, percentages, and profitability. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Ryan Pluer's Ah-Ha Moments “If you're running your business, you should pay yourself.” – Katie Ryan Pluer “If you are considering a potential partnership with someone, and before you make the purchase, and the final deal, if you can't have open and honest conversation, then…how the heck do you think you're going to have it when you both have skin in the game?” – LuAnn Nigara                                                      “Sometimes there's some ego in ownership and creating your own business. And if you're willing to put that ego aside and bring someone in that can help grow your business—grow it together—it's really worth it…If you find the right person that understands and has as much love for it as you do, I think it'll be a good fit. - Katie Ryan Pluer More About Katie Ryan Pluer Katie Ryan Pluer is an entrepreneur, and currently is a Partner & Vice President at Natasa Jones Interiors. Her expertise is in business development, marketing, and advertising. Over her 20-year professional career, Katie has used her skills to promote and grow business across several industries. She has bought and successfully sold several businesses including (4) uBreakiFix stores and Sign Gypsies MKE. Katie has had the honor and privilege of serving on the development committee for Nia Imani, the Board of Woman for MACC and as the Co-Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Council at Lueder Financial Group of Northwestern Mutual. She has a passion for service and a love for Milwaukee. act on the community. Connect with Katie Ryan Pluer Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:   WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference   AWDB 646: Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership   AWDB 672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business   AWDB 857: Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program – Do NOT Skip This Episode!   AWDB 876: Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results   AWDB 919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects Tue, 23 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Katie Ryan Pluer:Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner full LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie Ryan Pluer Today with Katie Ryan Pluer we are discussing what it takes to build a successful business partnership in the interior design industry. Katie brings a wealth of experience in business development, marketing, and advertising... Today With Katie Ryan Pluer Today with Katie Ryan Pluer we are discussing what it takes to build a successful business partnership in the interior design industry. Katie brings a wealth of experience in business development, marketing, and advertising. She has a keen understanding of what it takes to create a profitable business, and has spent the past few years getting settled in the interior design industry as Vice President of Natasa Jones Interiors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. If you have a partner or are considering one, or if you are looking to scale your interior design business anytime soon, Katie is here to share valuable insights. We are getting into the nitty gritty of partnership — from evaluating the business and legalities to personalities, percentages, and profitability. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Ryan Pluer's Ah-Ha Moments “If you're running your business, you should pay yourself.” – Katie Ryan Pluer “If you are considering a potential partnership with someone, and before you make the purchase, and the final deal, if you can't have open and honest conversation, then…how the heck do you think you're going to have it when you both have skin in the game?” – LuAnn Nigara                                                      “Sometimes there's some ego in ownership and creating your own business. And if you're willing to put that ego aside and bring someone in that can help grow your business—grow it together—it's really worth it…If you find the right person that understands and has as much love for it as you do, I think it'll be a good fit. - Katie Ryan Pluer More About Katie Ryan Pluer Katie Ryan Pluer is an entrepreneur, and currently is a Partner & Vice President at Natasa Jones Interiors. Her expertise is in business development, marketing, and advertising. Over her 20-year professional career, Katie has used her skills to promote and grow business across several industries. She has bought and successfully sold several businesses including (4) uBreakiFix stores and Sign Gypsies MKE. Katie has had the honor and privilege of serving on the development committee for Nia Imani, the Board of Woman for MACC and as the Co-Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Council at Lueder Financial Group of Northwestern Mutual. She has a passion for service and a love for Milwaukee. act on the community. Connect with Katie Ryan Pluer Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:   WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference   AWDB 646: Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership   AWDB 672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business   AWDB 857: Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program – Do NOT Skip This Episode!   AWDB 876: Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results   AWDB 919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects Today With Katie Ryan Pluer

Today with Katie Ryan Pluer we are discussing what it takes to build a successful business partnership in the interior design industry. Katie brings a wealth of experience in business development, marketing, and advertising. She has a keen understanding of what it takes to create a profitable business, and has spent the past few years getting settled in the interior design industry as Vice President of Natasa Jones Interiors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

If you have a partner or are considering one, or if you are looking to scale your interior design business anytime soon, Katie is here to share valuable insights. We are getting into the nitty gritty of partnership — from evaluating the business and legalities to personalities, percentages, and profitability.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie Ryan Pluer's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you're running your business, you should pay yourself.” – Katie Ryan Pluer “If you are considering a potential partnership with someone, and before you make the purchase, and the final deal, if you can't have open and honest conversation, then…how the heck do you think you're going to have it when you both have skin in the game?” – LuAnn Nigara                                                      “Sometimes there's some ego in ownership and creating your own business. And if you're willing to put that ego aside and bring someone in that can help grow your business—grow it together—it's really worth it…If you find the right person that understands and has as much love for it as you do, I think it'll be a good fit. - Katie Ryan Pluer

More About Katie Ryan Pluer

Katie Ryan Pluer is an entrepreneur, and currently is a Partner & Vice President at Natasa Jones Interiors. Her expertise is in business development, marketing, and advertising. Over her 20-year professional career, Katie has used her skills to promote and grow business across several industries. She has bought and successfully sold several businesses including (4) uBreakiFix stores and Sign Gypsies MKE.

Katie has had the honor and privilege of serving on the development committee for Nia Imani, the Board of Woman for MACC and as the Co-Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Council at Lueder Financial Group of Northwestern Mutual. She has a passion for service and a love for Milwaukee. act on the community.

Connect with Katie Ryan Pluer

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

  WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference

 

AWDB 646: Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership

 

AWDB 672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business

 

AWDB 857: Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program – Do NOT Skip This Episode!

 

AWDB 876: Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results

 

AWDB 919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects

]]> 4084 no 976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/976-on-air-strategy-sessions-is-a-disconnect-causing-your-ideal-clients-to-walk-away Today With Melissa Fields Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we run an entire new segment! It's "On Air Strategy Sessions"! In today's episode, we have Melissa Fields with us. Melissa is the founder of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. So, let's meet her! More About Melissa Fields Shades of Gray Design Studio is a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. It was started in 2018 shortly after Melissa Fields, the Founder and CEO, retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. A retired Air Force officer turned interior designer, took her side hustle and deep passion for all things beautiful and developed it into a business. Melissa wanted to create amazing spaces for people who were going to stay in their homes long term and enjoy the investment they put into their space. She shifted her focus towards designing residential spaces. Although not formally trained, she is a passionate creative who not only has an eye for design but firmly believes and understands that the details matter. Melissa also knows the power of beautiful and intentional design to truly transform people on a mind, body, and soul level. Because Melissa is so obsessed with the details and a high level of quality, she wanted to have a solid foundation and obtained a certification in residential interior design through the New York Institute of Art and Design. Shades of Gray Design Studio believes in creating not just beautiful, functional spaces but telling the story about the humans that reside there. We are all unique and that’s what makes us so special. Our homes should reflect that. Melissa loves using color, texture, and boldness in her designs. She strives to incorporate a modern, contemporary feel while blending luxury and comfort...making it truly one-of-a-kind. It’s all about elevating the living space and empowering her clients with the knowledge that they are worthy of being surrounded by beauty. Connect with Melissa Fields Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  What Would LuAnn Do? Other Shows Mentioned:   AWDB 915: Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging   AWDB 859: Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client   AWDB 574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy   WTFP 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You   AWDB 125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   AWDB 317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen   AWDB 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? Fri, 19 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away? full 976 LuAnn Nigara Today With Melissa Fields Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we run an entire new segment! It's "On Air Strategy Sessions"! In today's episode, we have Melissa Fields with us. Melissa is the founder of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique... Today With Melissa Fields Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we run an entire new segment! It's "On Air Strategy Sessions"! In today's episode, we have Melissa Fields with us. Melissa is the founder of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. So, let's meet her! More About Melissa Fields Shades of Gray Design Studio is a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. It was started in 2018 shortly after Melissa Fields, the Founder and CEO, retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. A retired Air Force officer turned interior designer, took her side hustle and deep passion for all things beautiful and developed it into a business. Melissa wanted to create amazing spaces for people who were going to stay in their homes long term and enjoy the investment they put into their space. She shifted her focus towards designing residential spaces. Although not formally trained, she is a passionate creative who not only has an eye for design but firmly believes and understands that the details matter. Melissa also knows the power of beautiful and intentional design to truly transform people on a mind, body, and soul level. Because Melissa is so obsessed with the details and a high level of quality, she wanted to have a solid foundation and obtained a certification in residential interior design through the New York Institute of Art and Design. Shades of Gray Design Studio believes in creating not just beautiful, functional spaces but telling the story about the humans that reside there. We are all unique and that’s what makes us so special. Our homes should reflect that. Melissa loves using color, texture, and boldness in her designs. She strives to incorporate a modern, contemporary feel while blending luxury and comfort...making it truly one-of-a-kind. It’s all about elevating the living space and empowering her clients with the knowledge that they are worthy of being surrounded by beauty. Connect with Melissa Fields Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  What Would LuAnn Do? Other Shows Mentioned:   AWDB 915: Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging   AWDB 859: Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client   AWDB 574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy   WTFP 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You   AWDB 125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   AWDB 317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen   AWDB 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we run an entire new segment! It's "On Air Strategy Sessions"! In today's episode, we have Melissa Fields with us. Melissa is the founder of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. So, let's meet her!

More About Melissa Fields

Shades of Gray Design Studio is a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. It was started in 2018 shortly after Melissa Fields, the Founder and CEO, retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service.

A retired Air Force officer turned interior designer, took her side hustle and deep passion for all things beautiful and developed it into a business. Melissa wanted to create amazing spaces for people who were going to stay in their homes long term and enjoy the investment they put into their space.

She shifted her focus towards designing residential spaces. Although not formally trained, she is a passionate creative who not only has an eye for design but firmly believes and understands that the details matter. Melissa also knows the power of beautiful and intentional design to truly transform people on a mind, body, and soul level. Because Melissa is so obsessed with the details and a high level of quality, she wanted to have a solid foundation and obtained a certification in residential interior design through the New York Institute of Art and Design.

Shades of Gray Design Studio believes in creating not just beautiful, functional spaces but telling the story about the humans that reside there. We are all unique and that’s what makes us so special. Our homes should reflect that. Melissa loves using color, texture, and boldness in her designs. She strives to incorporate a modern, contemporary feel while blending luxury and comfort...making it truly one-of-a-kind. It’s all about elevating the living space and empowering her clients with the knowledge that they are worthy of being surrounded by beauty.

Connect with Melissa Fields

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

 What Would LuAnn Do?

Other Shows Mentioned:

 

AWDB 915: Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging

 

AWDB 859: Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client

 

AWDB 574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

 

WTFP 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You

 

AWDB 125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

 

AWDB 317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

 

AWDB 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

]]> 3612 no 975: Joyful Abundance: Thriving in Business with a Positive Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/975-joyful-abundance-thriving-in-business-with-a-positive-mindset Today With Jennifer Davis Today on A Well-Designed Business I’m with Jennifer Davis, the founder of Davis Interiors, a boutique design firm based in Minneapolis. Jennifer's story is proof that intention, manifestation, and a positive mindset can lead to the life and business of our dreams. In this episode, we discuss Jennifer’s strategies and beliefs that have helped her create a joyful client experience and a successful career. From setting intentions and aligning your actions with your goals to overcoming impostor syndrome and cultivating an abundance mindset, Jennifer offers practical tips and powerful insights. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Davis's Ah-Ha Moments “I want the journey that you go through to get from start to finish to be as joyful as the joy you feel at the end of the project when you're in your new space.” - Jennifer Davis “I think you just have to really believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you and find good mentors and a good design community to be a part of. And then when you set the intentions, you can truly believe that you're worthy of all these things happening.” - Jennifer Davis “How we carry ourselves through our business relates, and comes back to us, in our personal life.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Davis Jennifer started her career journey in the furniture industry, where she got a taste for sales. Transitioning to an interior design studio, she started as a design assistant and swiftly advanced to a managerial position, showcasing her leadership abilities. Balancing her roles as a mother and entrepreneur, she cultivated her client base from a part-time endeavor which quickly grew into a full-fledged interior design studio. Jennifer firmly believes in the law of attraction, maintaining that our attitudes significantly influence the outcomes we experience in life. Jennifer operates a boutique interior design firm headquartered in Minneapolis, catering to clients nationwide. Her approach to each project revolves around fostering a client experience founded on clear communication, refined processes, swift timelines, and meaningful relationships. Davis Interiors lives by the motto “We want the process to create as much joy as the finished product”. Connect with Jennifer Davis Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Roxie Nafousi book - Manifest   Rebecca Hay’s episode with LuAnn   Inspired Kitchens and Baths Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation   AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers   AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook   AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business   AWDB 972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing Tue, 16 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Joyful Abundance: Thriving in Business with a Positive Mindset full 975 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jennifer Davis Today on A Well-Designed Business I’m with Jennifer Davis, the founder of Davis Interiors, a boutique design firm based in Minneapolis. Jennifer's story is proof that intention, manifestation, and a positive mindset can... Today With Jennifer Davis Today on A Well-Designed Business I’m with Jennifer Davis, the founder of Davis Interiors, a boutique design firm based in Minneapolis. Jennifer's story is proof that intention, manifestation, and a positive mindset can lead to the life and business of our dreams. In this episode, we discuss Jennifer’s strategies and beliefs that have helped her create a joyful client experience and a successful career. From setting intentions and aligning your actions with your goals to overcoming impostor syndrome and cultivating an abundance mindset, Jennifer offers practical tips and powerful insights. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Davis's Ah-Ha Moments “I want the journey that you go through to get from start to finish to be as joyful as the joy you feel at the end of the project when you're in your new space.” - Jennifer Davis “I think you just have to really believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you and find good mentors and a good design community to be a part of. And then when you set the intentions, you can truly believe that you're worthy of all these things happening.” - Jennifer Davis “How we carry ourselves through our business relates, and comes back to us, in our personal life.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Davis Jennifer started her career journey in the furniture industry, where she got a taste for sales. Transitioning to an interior design studio, she started as a design assistant and swiftly advanced to a managerial position, showcasing her leadership abilities. Balancing her roles as a mother and entrepreneur, she cultivated her client base from a part-time endeavor which quickly grew into a full-fledged interior design studio. Jennifer firmly believes in the law of attraction, maintaining that our attitudes significantly influence the outcomes we experience in life. Jennifer operates a boutique interior design firm headquartered in Minneapolis, catering to clients nationwide. Her approach to each project revolves around fostering a client experience founded on clear communication, refined processes, swift timelines, and meaningful relationships. Davis Interiors lives by the motto “We want the process to create as much joy as the finished product”. Connect with Jennifer Davis Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Roxie Nafousi book - Manifest   Rebecca Hay’s episode with LuAnn   Inspired Kitchens and Baths Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation   AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers   AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook   AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business   AWDB 972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing Today With Jennifer Davis

Today on A Well-Designed Business I’m with Jennifer Davis, the founder of Davis Interiors, a boutique design firm based in Minneapolis. Jennifer's story is proof that intention, manifestation, and a positive mindset can lead to the life and business of our dreams.

In this episode, we discuss Jennifer’s strategies and beliefs that have helped her create a joyful client experience and a successful career. From setting intentions and aligning your actions with your goals to overcoming impostor syndrome and cultivating an abundance mindset, Jennifer offers practical tips and powerful insights.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Davis's Ah-Ha Moments

“I want the journey that you go through to get from start to finish to be as joyful as the joy you feel at the end of the project when you're in your new space.” - Jennifer Davis

“I think you just have to really believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you and find good mentors and a good design community to be a part of. And then when you set the intentions, you can truly believe that you're worthy of all these things happening.” - Jennifer Davis

“How we carry ourselves through our business relates, and comes back to us, in our personal life.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Davis

Jennifer started her career journey in the furniture industry, where she got a taste for sales. Transitioning to an interior design studio, she started as a design assistant and swiftly advanced to a managerial position, showcasing her leadership abilities.

Balancing her roles as a mother and entrepreneur, she cultivated her client base from a part-time endeavor which quickly grew into a full-fledged interior design studio. Jennifer firmly believes in the law of attraction, maintaining that our attitudes significantly influence the outcomes we experience in life.

Jennifer operates a boutique interior design firm headquartered in Minneapolis, catering to clients nationwide. Her approach to each project revolves around fostering a client experience founded on clear communication, refined processes, swift timelines, and meaningful relationships. Davis Interiors lives by the motto “We want the process to create as much joy as the finished product”.

Connect with Jennifer Davis

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Roxie Nafousi book - Manifest

 

Rebecca Hay’s episode with LuAnn

 

Inspired Kitchens and Baths

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

 

AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

 

AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

 

AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

 

AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

 

AWDB 972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing

]]> 3577 no 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/974-power-talk-friday-katie-mcdonald-how-to-prioritize-your-well-being-in-your-interior-design-business Today With Katie McDonald Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m excited to welcome back Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach and instructor at b.nourished. As entrepreneurs, we do have a tendency to put ourselves on the backburner, focusing our time and attention on the needs of the business. But if we’re not creating something sustainable—if we’re heading toward burnout, are we really creating well-designed businesses? It can feel as if we need to justify rest, justify taking time for ourselves, Katie’s take is that we need to view taking care of ourselves in a whole new light—and today she and I are diving deep into the philosophical questions of creativity, well-being, and the way we are intertwined with the business. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald's Ah-Ha Moments “The only thing that will create change is our commitment to change—our willingness to look ourselves in the eyes, look at our hear, and say, ‘Something doesn’t feel right.’” -Katie “We’re always thinking about the future or the next big thing for our business. But in our personal lives, we’re willing to accept mediocrity.” -Katie “Our well-being is our fuel—the engine for our business.” -LuAnn More About Katie McDonald Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life. Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition. Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care. Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives. Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy. Connect with Katie McDonald Speaking Site Coaching Site and Link to Schedule a Complimentary 30 Minute Self-Care Strategy Session Link to Bnourished Planner 15% discount code for planners LUANN Here are the offers for the podcasts listeners 1. A 15% discount off the bnourished quarterly planner using code LUANN 2. Access to my curated resource guide here 3. Whole life assessment (will be a goodie) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #881 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design Fri, 12 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business full 974 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie McDonald Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m excited to welcome back Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach and instructor at b.nourished.  As entrepreneurs, we do have a tendency to put ourselves on the... Today With Katie McDonald Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m excited to welcome back Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach and instructor at b.nourished. As entrepreneurs, we do have a tendency to put ourselves on the backburner, focusing our time and attention on the needs of the business. But if we’re not creating something sustainable—if we’re heading toward burnout, are we really creating well-designed businesses? It can feel as if we need to justify rest, justify taking time for ourselves, Katie’s take is that we need to view taking care of ourselves in a whole new light—and today she and I are diving deep into the philosophical questions of creativity, well-being, and the way we are intertwined with the business. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald's Ah-Ha Moments “The only thing that will create change is our commitment to change—our willingness to look ourselves in the eyes, look at our hear, and say, ‘Something doesn’t feel right.’” -Katie “We’re always thinking about the future or the next big thing for our business. But in our personal lives, we’re willing to accept mediocrity.” -Katie “Our well-being is our fuel—the engine for our business.” -LuAnn More About Katie McDonald Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life. Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition. Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care. Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives. Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy. Connect with Katie McDonald Speaking Site Coaching Site and Link to Schedule a Complimentary 30 Minute Self-Care Strategy Session Link to Bnourished Planner 15% discount code for planners LUANN Here are the offers for the podcasts listeners 1. A 15% discount off the bnourished quarterly planner using code LUANN 2. Access to my curated resource guide here 3. Whole life assessment (will be a goodie) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #881 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design Today With Katie McDonald

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m excited to welcome back Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach and instructor at b.nourished. As entrepreneurs, we do have a tendency to put ourselves on the backburner, focusing our time and attention on the needs of the business. But if we’re not creating something sustainable—if we’re heading toward burnout, are we really creating well-designed businesses? It can feel as if we need to justify rest, justify taking time for ourselves, Katie’s take is that we need to view taking care of ourselves in a whole new light—and today she and I are diving deep into the philosophical questions of creativity, well-being, and the way we are intertwined with the business.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald's Ah-Ha Moments

“The only thing that will create change is our commitment to change—our willingness to look ourselves in the eyes, look at our hear, and say, ‘Something doesn’t feel right.’” -Katie

“We’re always thinking about the future or the next big thing for our business. But in our personal lives, we’re willing to accept mediocrity.” -Katie

“Our well-being is our fuel—the engine for our business.” -LuAnn

More About Katie McDonald

Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life.

Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition.

Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care.

Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives.

Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy.

Connect with Katie McDonald

Speaking Site

Coaching Site and Link to Schedule a Complimentary 30 Minute Self-Care Strategy Session

Link to Bnourished Planner 15% discount code for planners LUANN

Here are the offers for the podcasts listeners

1. A 15% discount off the bnourished quarterly planner using code LUANN

2. Access to my curated resource guide here

3. Whole life assessment (will be a goodie)

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #881 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

 

#968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design

]]> 4039 no 973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/973-jamie-gasparovic-how-investing-in-your-business-can-kick-imposter-syndrome-to-the-curb Today With Jamie Gasparovic Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Jamie Gasparovic, Founder and Principal Designer of Studio Gaspo, a boutique full-service interior design firm. Have you ever had imposter syndrome? Join the club. Jamie has a little secret to combating imposter syndrome, and that is to invest in your business. Jamie has spent thousands in investments for her business. Six figures in the last year, to be more specific. Before you drop your jaw, listen in to hear all of the value and advice Jamie has to give on investing in yourself LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic's Ah-Ha Moments “When designers ask me if an investment I made was worth it and I say it is. I have a hard time regretting anything because I have a takeaway from everything I have invested in.” - Jamie Gasparovic “Hearing something in business that you are already familiar with can hit differently when someone else explains it and presents it differently.” - Jamie Gasparovic More About Jamie Gasparovic  Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings. Connect with Jamie Gasparovic Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #592 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract   AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”   AWDB #709 Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business   AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed Tue, 09 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb full 973 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jamie Gasparovic Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Jamie Gasparovic, Founder and Principal Designer of Studio Gaspo, a boutique full-service interior design firm. Have you ever had imposter syndrome? Join the... Today With Jamie Gasparovic Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Jamie Gasparovic, Founder and Principal Designer of Studio Gaspo, a boutique full-service interior design firm. Have you ever had imposter syndrome? Join the club. Jamie has a little secret to combating imposter syndrome, and that is to invest in your business. Jamie has spent thousands in investments for her business. Six figures in the last year, to be more specific. Before you drop your jaw, listen in to hear all of the value and advice Jamie has to give on investing in yourself LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic's Ah-Ha Moments “When designers ask me if an investment I made was worth it and I say it is. I have a hard time regretting anything because I have a takeaway from everything I have invested in.” - Jamie Gasparovic “Hearing something in business that you are already familiar with can hit differently when someone else explains it and presents it differently.” - Jamie Gasparovic More About Jamie Gasparovic  Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings. Connect with Jamie Gasparovic Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #592 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract   AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”   AWDB #709 Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business   AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing AWDB #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed Today With Jamie Gasparovic

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Jamie Gasparovic, Founder and Principal Designer of Studio Gaspo, a boutique full-service interior design firm. Have you ever had imposter syndrome? Join the club. Jamie has a little secret to combating imposter syndrome, and that is to invest in your business. Jamie has spent thousands in investments for her business. Six figures in the last year, to be more specific. Before you drop your jaw, listen in to hear all of the value and advice Jamie has to give on investing in yourself

LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic's Ah-Ha Moments

“When designers ask me if an investment I made was worth it and I say it is. I have a hard time regretting anything because I have a takeaway from everything I have invested in.” - Jamie Gasparovic

“Hearing something in business that you are already familiar with can hit differently when someone else explains it and presents it differently.” - Jamie Gasparovic

More About Jamie Gasparovic

 Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings.

Connect with Jamie Gasparovic

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #592 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract

 

AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

 

AWDB #709 Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business

 

AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

AWDB #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

]]> 3411 no 972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/972-power-talk-friday-lesley-myrick-profit-insiders-how-interior-designers-can-leverage-local-marketing Today With Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back Lesley Myrick of Profit Insiders. Now, we all know that local business is the backbone of interior design. And yet, our focus often falls primarily or solely on online marketing. But local networking and marketing offer a lot of potential—if you know how to take advantage of opportunities (and measure your success). Lesley knows that local marketing is about more than joining BNI or your run-of-the-mill networking group. While those organizations can certainly be valuable to your business, Lesley knows that the best way to land local clients is simply by getting out there and meeting people, wherever you might be. Today, she shares how she makes this work for her (and what you can do to start taking advantage of local opportunities). LuAnn Nigara and Lesley Myrick's Ah-Ha Moments “I understand as an introvert myself, it can be uncomfortable—the local marketing side of it. It’s easy to hide behind a computer and do social media posts or spiff up your website and update your portfolio, and I’m not discounting the importance of those things. But local marketing is so important because this is a business and an industry built on relationships.” -Lesley “We often engage in a behavior unconsciously in our own lives that we then don’t apply to our businesses. Would you find a hairdresser off Google? Probably not. You would probably ask people…and yet we think that’s what’s going to happen for our business.” -LuAnn More About Lesley Myrick  Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Connect with Lesley Myrick Profit Insiders Academy   Free Resources Website Instagram  YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich   AWDB #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business   AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer   AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula   AWDB #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement   AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers   AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind   AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right   AWDB #935 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy. Fri, 05 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing full 972 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back Lesley Myrick of Profit Insiders. Now, we all know that local business is the backbone of interior design. And yet, our focus... Today With Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back Lesley Myrick of Profit Insiders. Now, we all know that local business is the backbone of interior design. And yet, our focus often falls primarily or solely on online marketing. But local networking and marketing offer a lot of potential—if you know how to take advantage of opportunities (and measure your success). Lesley knows that local marketing is about more than joining BNI or your run-of-the-mill networking group. While those organizations can certainly be valuable to your business, Lesley knows that the best way to land local clients is simply by getting out there and meeting people, wherever you might be. Today, she shares how she makes this work for her (and what you can do to start taking advantage of local opportunities). LuAnn Nigara and Lesley Myrick's Ah-Ha Moments “I understand as an introvert myself, it can be uncomfortable—the local marketing side of it. It’s easy to hide behind a computer and do social media posts or spiff up your website and update your portfolio, and I’m not discounting the importance of those things. But local marketing is so important because this is a business and an industry built on relationships.” -Lesley “We often engage in a behavior unconsciously in our own lives that we then don’t apply to our businesses. Would you find a hairdresser off Google? Probably not. You would probably ask people…and yet we think that’s what’s going to happen for our business.” -LuAnn More About Lesley Myrick  Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Connect with Lesley Myrick Profit Insiders Academy   Free Resources Website Instagram  YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich   AWDB #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business   AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer   AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula   AWDB #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement   AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers   AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind   AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right   AWDB #935 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy. Today With Lesley Myrick:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back Lesley Myrick of Profit Insiders.

Now, we all know that local business is the backbone of interior design. And yet, our focus often falls primarily or solely on online marketing. But local networking and marketing offer a lot of potential—if you know how to take advantage of opportunities (and measure your success).

Lesley knows that local marketing is about more than joining BNI or your run-of-the-mill networking group. While those organizations can certainly be valuable to your business, Lesley knows that the best way to land local clients is simply by getting out there and meeting people, wherever you might be.

Today, she shares how she makes this work for her (and what you can do to start taking advantage of local opportunities).

LuAnn Nigara and Lesley Myrick's Ah-Ha Moments

“I understand as an introvert myself, it can be uncomfortable—the local marketing side of it. It’s easy to hide behind a computer and do social media posts or spiff up your website and update your portfolio, and I’m not discounting the importance of those things. But local marketing is so important because this is a business and an industry built on relationships.” -Lesley

“We often engage in a behavior unconsciously in our own lives that we then don’t apply to our businesses. Would you find a hairdresser off Google? Probably not. You would probably ask people…and yet we think that’s what’s going to happen for our business.” -LuAnn

More About Lesley Myrick

 Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love.

Connect with Lesley Myrick

Profit Insiders Academy

 

Free Resources

Website

Instagram 

YouTube

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

 

AWDB #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

 

AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

 

AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

 

AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

 

AWDB #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

 

AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

 

AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers

 

AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

 

AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right

 

AWDB #935 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy.

]]> 3670 no 971: Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/971-vicente-wolf-how-to-bring-true-artistry-into-interior-design Today With Vicente Wolf Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome design icon Vicente Wolf to the show. Vicente’s name speaks for itself, as does his reputation. With more than 50 years of experience and wide-known fame, Vicente is a true artist who undoubtedly inspires upcoming designers on a regular basis. He has a true talent for design—and it begins with understanding the artistry involved. Today, Vicente shares his insights about creativity, design, and knowing the value you bring to the table. LuAnn Nigara and Vicente Wolf's Ah-Ha Moments “Architects are respected and revered. Designers often are not—they are seen as putting frosting on a cake rather than the real value they can bring.” -Vicente “When you run your own business, you make the rules. You can make a decision when you would love to contribute your gift to someone.” -LuAnn “How can you break ground if you don’t trust your gut?” -Vicente More About Vicente Wolf As a Cuban refugee making his way to New York in his teens, Vicente became a force in the home furnishings revolution, changing the vocabulary of interior design into a sleeker, modern vision starting in the mid-1970s. Known for his high gloss white spaces, he earned the moniker “The White Knight.” Admired for his impeccable eye and unique perspective, Vicente Wolf has been at the top of the design industry for nearly 50 years. Wolf's work has been featured in all major lists and shelter publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Luxe Interiors + Design magazine. Vicente was named to Elle Décor magazine’s inaugural list of design Titans list on their annual roster of A-List of designers in 2021. In his new book CREATIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS (Rizzoli, 2023), he shares the expertise he has honed over the years with project images and easy-to-digest “Lessons Learned”. According to Vicente, incorporating authentic artifacts and furnishings from these places with modern décor that exude a quiet elegance, captures a sense of earthy charisma, timelessness, and soul. Vicente is an international speaker, author with five book titles to his name, collector, lauded retailer and celebrated visionary. In 2012, Vicente accepted an honorary PHD in Design & Architecture from Boston Architectural College. He passionately supports God’s Love We Deliver as a Trustee. Connect with Vicente Wolf Instagram  Facebook  TikTok YouTube LinkedIn Creative Interior Solutions (Rizzoli, 2023) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  Power Talk Friday Tour Creative Interior Solutions - Vicente Wolf’s book Book Call with Duke Renders Mydoma Studio Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #28 Andrew Suvalsky – What Are You Waiting For?   AWDB #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets   AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design Tue, 02 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design full 971 LuAnn Nigara Today With Vicente Wolf Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome design icon Vicente Wolf to the show.  Vicente’s name speaks for itself, as does his reputation. With more than 50 years of experience and wide-known fame, Vicente is... Today With Vicente Wolf Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome design icon Vicente Wolf to the show. Vicente’s name speaks for itself, as does his reputation. With more than 50 years of experience and wide-known fame, Vicente is a true artist who undoubtedly inspires upcoming designers on a regular basis. He has a true talent for design—and it begins with understanding the artistry involved. Today, Vicente shares his insights about creativity, design, and knowing the value you bring to the table. LuAnn Nigara and Vicente Wolf's Ah-Ha Moments “Architects are respected and revered. Designers often are not—they are seen as putting frosting on a cake rather than the real value they can bring.” -Vicente “When you run your own business, you make the rules. You can make a decision when you would love to contribute your gift to someone.” -LuAnn “How can you break ground if you don’t trust your gut?” -Vicente More About Vicente Wolf As a Cuban refugee making his way to New York in his teens, Vicente became a force in the home furnishings revolution, changing the vocabulary of interior design into a sleeker, modern vision starting in the mid-1970s. Known for his high gloss white spaces, he earned the moniker “The White Knight.” Admired for his impeccable eye and unique perspective, Vicente Wolf has been at the top of the design industry for nearly 50 years. Wolf's work has been featured in all major lists and shelter publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Luxe Interiors + Design magazine. Vicente was named to Elle Décor magazine’s inaugural list of design Titans list on their annual roster of A-List of designers in 2021. In his new book CREATIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS (Rizzoli, 2023), he shares the expertise he has honed over the years with project images and easy-to-digest “Lessons Learned”. According to Vicente, incorporating authentic artifacts and furnishings from these places with modern décor that exude a quiet elegance, captures a sense of earthy charisma, timelessness, and soul. Vicente is an international speaker, author with five book titles to his name, collector, lauded retailer and celebrated visionary. In 2012, Vicente accepted an honorary PHD in Design & Architecture from Boston Architectural College. He passionately supports God’s Love We Deliver as a Trustee. Connect with Vicente Wolf Instagram  Facebook  TikTok YouTube LinkedIn Creative Interior Solutions (Rizzoli, 2023) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  Power Talk Friday Tour Creative Interior Solutions - Vicente Wolf’s book Book Call with Duke Renders Mydoma Studio Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #28 Andrew Suvalsky – What Are You Waiting For?   AWDB #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets   AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design Today With Vicente Wolf

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome design icon Vicente Wolf to the show. Vicente’s name speaks for itself, as does his reputation. With more than 50 years of experience and wide-known fame, Vicente is a true artist who undoubtedly inspires upcoming designers on a regular basis. He has a true talent for design—and it begins with understanding the artistry involved. Today, Vicente shares his insights about creativity, design, and knowing the value you bring to the table.

LuAnn Nigara and Vicente Wolf's Ah-Ha Moments

“Architects are respected and revered. Designers often are not—they are seen as putting frosting on a cake rather than the real value they can bring.” -Vicente

“When you run your own business, you make the rules. You can make a decision when you would love to contribute your gift to someone.” -LuAnn

“How can you break ground if you don’t trust your gut?” -Vicente

More About Vicente Wolf

As a Cuban refugee making his way to New York in his teens, Vicente became a force in the home furnishings revolution, changing the vocabulary of interior design into a sleeker, modern vision starting in the mid-1970s. Known for his high gloss white spaces, he earned the moniker “The White Knight.” Admired for his impeccable eye and unique perspective, Vicente Wolf has been at the top of the design industry for nearly 50 years. Wolf's work has been featured in all major lists and shelter publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Luxe Interiors + Design magazine. Vicente was named to Elle Décor magazine’s inaugural list of design Titans list on their annual roster of A-List of designers in 2021. In his new book CREATIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS (Rizzoli, 2023), he shares the expertise he has honed over the years with project images and easy-to-digest “Lessons Learned”. According to Vicente, incorporating authentic artifacts and furnishings from these places with modern décor that exude a quiet elegance, captures a sense of earthy charisma, timelessness, and soul. Vicente is an international speaker, author with five book titles to his name, collector, lauded retailer and celebrated visionary. In 2012, Vicente accepted an honorary PHD in Design & Architecture from Boston Architectural College. He passionately supports God’s Love We Deliver as a Trustee.

Connect with Vicente Wolf

Instagram 

Facebook 

TikTok

YouTube

LinkedIn

Creative Interior Solutions (Rizzoli, 2023)

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

 Power Talk Friday Tour

Creative Interior Solutions - Vicente Wolf’s book

Book Call with Duke Renders

Mydoma Studio

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #28 Andrew Suvalsky – What Are You Waiting For?

 

AWDB #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets

 

AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design

]]> 4693 no 970: Power Talk Friday: Ali Stein: Strategies to Acquire New Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/970-power-talk-friday-ali-stein-strategies-to-acquire-new-clients Today With Ali Stein Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Ali Stein, owner of Grabler Brand. This is the first time you have heard from Ali on the show, but not the first time you have heard about her on the show. Back when I had Regan Baker on, if you remember, she raved about Ali. Over seven years Ali helped grow the Regan Baker Design team from 5 to 20 employees and she helped increase their revenue by 1200%. Ali was the Director of Operations and she oversaw HR, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management, and more. Ali now has her own business, Grabler Brand, where she advises creatives as a business strategigist and operations advisor.  This smart lady is joining me on the show to give tips to designers on how they can land their next clients. Pick It Apart: [7:55] Ali starts the conversation by explaining how to get your next client. [8:35] Tip number one to gaining new clients. [15:45] Why Ali thinks it’s important to cultivate authentic relationships and how to do that. [24:20] Pushing yourself a little to make relationships, even if you are an introvert. [36:19] Ali advises to put yourself out there and ask for help. LuAnn Nigara and Ali Stein's Ah-Ha Moments “It is important to give clients that next level experience and not to rush through the process.” - Ali Stein “When you can establish a working relationship with someone, that can be a strong engine in developing future business.” Ali Stein “If you are an introvert, there is a way you can be in a room with 25 or 250 people and connect with two or three of them in a meaningful way.” LuAnn Nigara More About Ali Stein Ali Grabler Stein brings nearly 20 years of experience to Grabler Brand, a business strategy and operations advisory for the design and build industry. Early in her career Ali worked at Google and then as one of the first 50 employees at Facebook (now Meta). There she helped grow the community from 6 million to over 1 billion users during her 10 year tenure. She played various roles in User Operations, Product and Partner Management, and had the opportunity to lead both small and large teams. Ali then went in-house at Regan Baker Design, a full-service interior design and styling firm, to serve as the Director of Operations where she oversaw Human Resources, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management and more. She helped grow the team from five to nearly 20 employees and grew revenue significantly. At Grabler Brand her goal is to be a sounding board, ally and guide as creatives navigate their business growth and subsequent twists and turns. As someone who has managed both small and large teams, Ali has a strong sense for the inner workings of a successful business. From her industry knowledge to her experience with internal processes and marketing, Ali helps business owners and teams work towards becoming the businesses they want to be. Connect with Ali Stein Website Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner   AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design   AWDB #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values   AWDB ·798: Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business Fri, 29 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ali Stein: Strategies to Acquire New Clients full 970 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ali Stein Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Ali Stein, owner of Grabler Brand. This is the first time you have heard from Ali on the show, but not the first time you have heard about her on the show. Back when I had... Today With Ali Stein Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Ali Stein, owner of Grabler Brand. This is the first time you have heard from Ali on the show, but not the first time you have heard about her on the show. Back when I had Regan Baker on, if you remember, she raved about Ali. Over seven years Ali helped grow the Regan Baker Design team from 5 to 20 employees and she helped increase their revenue by 1200%. Ali was the Director of Operations and she oversaw HR, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management, and more. Ali now has her own business, Grabler Brand, where she advises creatives as a business strategigist and operations advisor.  This smart lady is joining me on the show to give tips to designers on how they can land their next clients. Pick It Apart: [7:55] Ali starts the conversation by explaining how to get your next client. [8:35] Tip number one to gaining new clients. [15:45] Why Ali thinks it’s important to cultivate authentic relationships and how to do that. [24:20] Pushing yourself a little to make relationships, even if you are an introvert. [36:19] Ali advises to put yourself out there and ask for help. LuAnn Nigara and Ali Stein's Ah-Ha Moments “It is important to give clients that next level experience and not to rush through the process.” - Ali Stein “When you can establish a working relationship with someone, that can be a strong engine in developing future business.” Ali Stein “If you are an introvert, there is a way you can be in a room with 25 or 250 people and connect with two or three of them in a meaningful way.” LuAnn Nigara More About Ali Stein Ali Grabler Stein brings nearly 20 years of experience to Grabler Brand, a business strategy and operations advisory for the design and build industry. Early in her career Ali worked at Google and then as one of the first 50 employees at Facebook (now Meta). There she helped grow the community from 6 million to over 1 billion users during her 10 year tenure. She played various roles in User Operations, Product and Partner Management, and had the opportunity to lead both small and large teams. Ali then went in-house at Regan Baker Design, a full-service interior design and styling firm, to serve as the Director of Operations where she oversaw Human Resources, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management and more. She helped grow the team from five to nearly 20 employees and grew revenue significantly. At Grabler Brand her goal is to be a sounding board, ally and guide as creatives navigate their business growth and subsequent twists and turns. As someone who has managed both small and large teams, Ali has a strong sense for the inner workings of a successful business. From her industry knowledge to her experience with internal processes and marketing, Ali helps business owners and teams work towards becoming the businesses they want to be. Connect with Ali Stein Website Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner   AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design   AWDB #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values   AWDB ·798: Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Ali Stein, owner of Grabler Brand. This is the first time you have heard from Ali on the show, but not the first time you have heard about her on the show. Back when I had Regan Baker on, if you remember, she raved about Ali. Over seven years Ali helped grow the Regan Baker Design team from 5 to 20 employees and she helped increase their revenue by 1200%. Ali was the Director of Operations and she oversaw HR, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management, and more. Ali now has her own business, Grabler Brand, where she advises creatives as a business strategigist and operations advisor.  This smart lady is joining me on the show to give tips to designers on how they can land their next clients.

Pick It Apart:

[7:55] Ali starts the conversation by explaining how to get your next client.

[8:35] Tip number one to gaining new clients.

[15:45] Why Ali thinks it’s important to cultivate authentic relationships and how to do that.

[24:20] Pushing yourself a little to make relationships, even if you are an introvert.

[36:19] Ali advises to put yourself out there and ask for help.

LuAnn Nigara and Ali Stein's Ah-Ha Moments

“It is important to give clients that next level experience and not to rush through the process.” - Ali Stein

“When you can establish a working relationship with someone, that can be a strong engine in developing future business.” Ali Stein

“If you are an introvert, there is a way you can be in a room with 25 or 250 people and connect with two or three of them in a meaningful way.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Ali Stein

Ali Grabler Stein brings nearly 20 years of experience to Grabler Brand, a business strategy and operations advisory for the design and build industry. Early in her career Ali worked at Google and then as one of the first 50 employees at Facebook (now Meta). There she helped grow the community from 6 million to over 1 billion users during her 10 year tenure. She played various roles in User Operations, Product and Partner Management, and had the opportunity to lead both small and large teams. Ali then went in-house at Regan Baker Design, a full-service interior design and styling firm, to serve as the Director of Operations where she oversaw Human Resources, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management and more. She helped grow the team from five to nearly 20 employees and grew revenue significantly. At Grabler Brand her goal is to be a sounding board, ally and guide as creatives navigate their business growth and subsequent twists and turns. As someone who has managed both small and large teams, Ali has a strong sense for the inner workings of a successful business. From her industry knowledge to her experience with internal processes and marketing, Ali helps business owners and teams work towards becoming the businesses they want to be.

Connect with Ali Stein

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner

 

AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

 

AWDB #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values

 

AWDB ·798: Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business

]]> 2835 no 969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/969-pure-salt-interiors-aly-morford-leigh-lincoln-licensing-partnerships Today With Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I have a two-for-one as I am joined by best friends and business partners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, co-owners of Pure Salt Interiors. If you have ever been interested in partnering with another brand, this episode is for you. I couldn’t wait to have Aly and Leigh on today to pick this apart because I know that a lot of designers are interested in forming partnerships, but have no idea how to find them, how to start them, who to start them with, all of the things. Today, Aly and Leigh answer these questions and more. LuAnn Nigara, Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln's Ah-Ha Moments “It is one thing when it comes to creating a product people love, but there is a slew of different things to consider for them to sell well.” - Aly Morford.  “It is important to lean into your partner's knowledge, opinions, and expertise as well.” - Leigh Lincoln. More About Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln  Founded in 2016 by best friends and business partners, Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, Pure Salt creates inspired spaces, products, and experiences that encourage people to live deeply in each moment through clean, functional, family-friendly design through its design studio, Newport Beach retail store, and eponymous Pure Salt Shoppe. Connect with Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  TikTok YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Cheryl Luckett about Wildwood Collection - “A Well-Designed Business” A Documentary Series Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim Other Shows Mentioned:AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles   AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   AWDB #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability Tue, 26 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships full 969 LuAnn Nigara Today With Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I have a two-for-one as I am joined by best friends and business partners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, co-owners of Pure Salt Interiors. If you have ever been... Today With Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I have a two-for-one as I am joined by best friends and business partners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, co-owners of Pure Salt Interiors. If you have ever been interested in partnering with another brand, this episode is for you. I couldn’t wait to have Aly and Leigh on today to pick this apart because I know that a lot of designers are interested in forming partnerships, but have no idea how to find them, how to start them, who to start them with, all of the things. Today, Aly and Leigh answer these questions and more. LuAnn Nigara, Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln's Ah-Ha Moments “It is one thing when it comes to creating a product people love, but there is a slew of different things to consider for them to sell well.” - Aly Morford.  “It is important to lean into your partner's knowledge, opinions, and expertise as well.” - Leigh Lincoln. More About Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln  Founded in 2016 by best friends and business partners, Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, Pure Salt creates inspired spaces, products, and experiences that encourage people to live deeply in each moment through clean, functional, family-friendly design through its design studio, Newport Beach retail store, and eponymous Pure Salt Shoppe. Connect with Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  TikTok YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Cheryl Luckett about Wildwood Collection - “A Well-Designed Business” A Documentary Series Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim Other Shows Mentioned:AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles   AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   AWDB #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability Today With Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I have a two-for-one as I am joined by best friends and business partners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, co-owners of Pure Salt Interiors. If you have ever been interested in partnering with another brand, this episode is for you. I couldn’t wait to have Aly and Leigh on today to pick this apart because I know that a lot of designers are interested in forming partnerships, but have no idea how to find them, how to start them, who to start them with, all of the things. Today, Aly and Leigh answer these questions and more.

LuAnn Nigara, Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln's Ah-Ha Moments

“It is one thing when it comes to creating a product people love, but there is a slew of different things to consider for them to sell well.” - Aly Morford. 

“It is important to lean into your partner's knowledge, opinions, and expertise as well.” - Leigh Lincoln.

More About Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

 Founded in 2016 by best friends and business partners, Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, Pure Salt creates inspired spaces, products, and experiences that encourage people to live deeply in each moment through clean, functional, family-friendly design through its design studio, Newport Beach retail store, and eponymous Pure Salt Shoppe.

Connect with Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

TikTok

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Cheryl Luckett about Wildwood Collection - “A Well-Designed Business” A Documentary Series

Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim

Other Shows Mentioned:AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

 

AWDB #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles

 

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

 

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

 

AWDB #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability

]]> 4009 no 968: Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/968-overheard-charles-pavarini-leyden-lewis-and-maria-viola-how-to-harness-creativity-in-interior-design Today With Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Overheard episode, I’m joined by Charles Pavarini III, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola. We rarely talk about design itself on the podcast—we’re much more focused on the business sode of things. But the conversation about creativity has popped up several times over the years in discussions I have had with many of you. I have often wondered, is creativity something you just have or you don’t? And if you do have it, how do you know, and how do you channel it into your work?  Is there a formula, a process, or a system for developing that? Or is it just innate? Today, I turn to the experts to answer these questions. LuAnn Nigara, Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola's Ah-Ha Moments “I think that the designer has something that the layperson does not have…and when you can unclutter your head with specifics—that’s when inspiration comes.” -Charles “We teach students to open and receive the creativity that’s already stirring inside them, but they just don’t know how to release it. We also take that and help them understand how to put it into the actual design of a room.” -Maria “I think for artists, shame is a major component—you have to get beyond it and allow yourself to express yourself. I think the most creative people are the bravest people I know.” -Leyden More About Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Leyden Lewis: Leyden’s design aesthetic is at once rooted in a rich classical Modernism coupled with ancient traditions and methodologies. He operates from a deep interest in art and the history of design to tell new and modern stories. Leyden Lewis Design Studio engages with the cultures of the past and present and allows for a fluid integration between art, architecture, and design. Charles Pavarini: His design sensibility incorporates an International Style based in Classicism and a theatrical component in less-than typical ways. His book Lighting Beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LED’s was recently published by Schiffer Publications. Maria Viola: Maria adds a unique perspective that stems from her expertise with color, custom designs and knowledge of design history. Developing long-lasting relationships has enabled her to take clients through multiple projects. Connect with Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Leyden’s Website Leyden’s Instagram Charles’ Website Charles’ Book: Lighting beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LEDs Charles’ Instagram Maria’s Website Maria’s Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships for 2024 Vitalia Inc Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest Fri, 22 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design full 968 LuAnn Nigara Today With Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Overheard episode, I’m joined by Charles Pavarini III, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola. We rarely talk about design itself on the... Today With Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Overheard episode, I’m joined by Charles Pavarini III, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola. We rarely talk about design itself on the podcast—we’re much more focused on the business sode of things. But the conversation about creativity has popped up several times over the years in discussions I have had with many of you. I have often wondered, is creativity something you just have or you don’t? And if you do have it, how do you know, and how do you channel it into your work?  Is there a formula, a process, or a system for developing that? Or is it just innate? Today, I turn to the experts to answer these questions. LuAnn Nigara, Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola's Ah-Ha Moments “I think that the designer has something that the layperson does not have…and when you can unclutter your head with specifics—that’s when inspiration comes.” -Charles “We teach students to open and receive the creativity that’s already stirring inside them, but they just don’t know how to release it. We also take that and help them understand how to put it into the actual design of a room.” -Maria “I think for artists, shame is a major component—you have to get beyond it and allow yourself to express yourself. I think the most creative people are the bravest people I know.” -Leyden More About Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Leyden Lewis: Leyden’s design aesthetic is at once rooted in a rich classical Modernism coupled with ancient traditions and methodologies. He operates from a deep interest in art and the history of design to tell new and modern stories. Leyden Lewis Design Studio engages with the cultures of the past and present and allows for a fluid integration between art, architecture, and design. Charles Pavarini: His design sensibility incorporates an International Style based in Classicism and a theatrical component in less-than typical ways. His book Lighting Beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LED’s was recently published by Schiffer Publications. Maria Viola: Maria adds a unique perspective that stems from her expertise with color, custom designs and knowledge of design history. Developing long-lasting relationships has enabled her to take clients through multiple projects. Connect with Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola Leyden’s Website Leyden’s Instagram Charles’ Website Charles’ Book: Lighting beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LEDs Charles’ Instagram Maria’s Website Maria’s Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships for 2024 Vitalia Inc Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest Today With Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Overheard episode, I’m joined by Charles Pavarini III, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola. We rarely talk about design itself on the podcast—we’re much more focused on the business sode of things. But the conversation about creativity has popped up several times over the years in discussions I have had with many of you.

I have often wondered, is creativity something you just have or you don’t? And if you do have it, how do you know, and how do you channel it into your work? 

Is there a formula, a process, or a system for developing that? Or is it just innate? Today, I turn to the experts to answer these questions.

LuAnn Nigara, Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola's Ah-Ha Moments

“I think that the designer has something that the layperson does not have…and when you can unclutter your head with specifics—that’s when inspiration comes.” -Charles

“We teach students to open and receive the creativity that’s already stirring inside them, but they just don’t know how to release it. We also take that and help them understand how to put it into the actual design of a room.” -Maria

“I think for artists, shame is a major component—you have to get beyond it and allow yourself to express yourself. I think the most creative people are the bravest people I know.” -Leyden

More About Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Leyden Lewis: Leyden’s design aesthetic is at once rooted in a rich classical Modernism coupled with ancient traditions and methodologies. He operates from a deep interest in art and the history of design to tell new and modern stories. Leyden Lewis Design Studio engages with the cultures of the past and present and allows for a fluid integration between art, architecture, and design.

Charles Pavarini: His design sensibility incorporates an International Style based in Classicism and a theatrical component in less-than typical ways. His book Lighting Beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LED’s was recently published by Schiffer Publications.

Maria Viola: Maria adds a unique perspective that stems from her expertise with color, custom designs and knowledge of design history. Developing long-lasting relationships has enabled her to take clients through multiple projects.

Connect with Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Leyden’s Website

Leyden’s Instagram

Charles’ Website

Charles’ Book: Lighting beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LEDs

Charles’ Instagram

Maria’s Website

Maria’s Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships for 2024

Vitalia Inc

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

]]> 4832 no 967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/967-breegan-jane-the-gift-of-transitioning-turning-risks-into-success Today With Breegan Jane Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is an accomplished interior designer, entrepreneur, brand influencer, children’s book author, real estate investor, philanthropist, and TV personality, and you may probably recognize her from HGTV Dream Home. Breegan Jane, who has transitioned many times, is back on the show for a second time. She refers to it as “the gift of transitioning” because it’s making space for something new, something that will uplevel your business or get you closer to your goals. Listen in as Breegan offers more tips and come-to-Jesus moments with her ever-growing business. LuAnn Nigara and Breegan Jane's Ah-Ha Moments “Breegan Jane, as a company, has gone through so many growing pains in the evolution of who I wanted to become,” Breegan Jane “Sometimes when your business model changes, you could change with it but if it doesn’t work for you, then you can create your own lane,” - LuAnn Nigara “The more we change to fit other people’s opinions, the more we lose ourselves and our value,” - Breegan Jane More About Breegan Jane Breegan Jane is an accomplished interior designer whose resume boasts enterprises that span the gamut, from custom music studios to international real estate projects and everything in between. Her design savvy is well sought after by clients in almost every industry. As both a residential and commercial designer, Breegan focuses on the design-build aspect of every project she endeavors. Her unique experience continues to set her apart for exceptional design opportunities, including her most recent work on UNICA, a multimillion-dollar luxury estate in Bel Air, California. Connect with Breegan Jane Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full-Time Job   AWDB #362: Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success full 967 LuAnn Nigara Today With Breegan Jane Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is an accomplished interior designer, entrepreneur, brand influencer, children’s book author, real estate investor, philanthropist, and TV personality, and you may probably... Today With Breegan Jane Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is an accomplished interior designer, entrepreneur, brand influencer, children’s book author, real estate investor, philanthropist, and TV personality, and you may probably recognize her from HGTV Dream Home. Breegan Jane, who has transitioned many times, is back on the show for a second time. She refers to it as “the gift of transitioning” because it’s making space for something new, something that will uplevel your business or get you closer to your goals. Listen in as Breegan offers more tips and come-to-Jesus moments with her ever-growing business. LuAnn Nigara and Breegan Jane's Ah-Ha Moments “Breegan Jane, as a company, has gone through so many growing pains in the evolution of who I wanted to become,” Breegan Jane “Sometimes when your business model changes, you could change with it but if it doesn’t work for you, then you can create your own lane,” - LuAnn Nigara “The more we change to fit other people’s opinions, the more we lose ourselves and our value,” - Breegan Jane More About Breegan Jane Breegan Jane is an accomplished interior designer whose resume boasts enterprises that span the gamut, from custom music studios to international real estate projects and everything in between. Her design savvy is well sought after by clients in almost every industry. As both a residential and commercial designer, Breegan focuses on the design-build aspect of every project she endeavors. Her unique experience continues to set her apart for exceptional design opportunities, including her most recent work on UNICA, a multimillion-dollar luxury estate in Bel Air, California. Connect with Breegan Jane Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  Power Talk Friday Tour Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full-Time Job   AWDB #362: Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur Today With Breegan Jane

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is an accomplished interior designer, entrepreneur, brand influencer, children’s book author, real estate investor, philanthropist, and TV personality, and you may probably recognize her from HGTV Dream Home. Breegan Jane, who has transitioned many times, is back on the show for a second time. She refers to it as “the gift of transitioning” because it’s making space for something new, something that will uplevel your business or get you closer to your goals. Listen in as Breegan offers more tips and come-to-Jesus moments with her ever-growing business.

LuAnn Nigara and Breegan Jane's Ah-Ha Moments

“Breegan Jane, as a company, has gone through so many growing pains in the evolution of who I wanted to become,” Breegan Jane

“Sometimes when your business model changes, you could change with it but if it doesn’t work for you, then you can create your own lane,” - LuAnn Nigara

“The more we change to fit other people’s opinions, the more we lose ourselves and our value,” - Breegan Jane

More About Breegan Jane

Breegan Jane is an accomplished interior designer whose resume boasts enterprises that span the gamut, from custom music studios to international real estate projects and everything in between. Her design savvy is well sought after by clients in almost every industry.

As both a residential and commercial designer, Breegan focuses on the design-build aspect of every project she endeavors. Her unique experience continues to set her apart for exceptional design opportunities, including her most recent work on UNICA, a multimillion-dollar luxury estate in Bel Air, California.

Connect with Breegan Jane

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

 Power Talk Friday Tour

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full-Time Job

 

AWDB #362: Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur

]]> 4169 no 966: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: It's Not Big Clients — It's BIG THINKING That Creates Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/966-andrea-liebross-its-not-big-clients-its-big-thinking-that-creates-success Today With Andrea Liebross Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by certified business and life coach Andrea Liebross, who is on a mission to help women entrepreneurs discover their inner potential and redefine success. Andrea is also the author of the bestselling book, “She Thinks Big” and host of the podcast, “Time to Level Up.” Today she is teaching us how to get out of the messy middle and move into the extraordinary with BIG THINKING. Tune in to learn Andrea’s 5 keys to becoming a big thinker. It’s all about TRUST! LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross's Ah-Ha Moments “That future you all she's filled with is enthusiasm, and wisdom and knowledge. So big thinking comes from a different place than today. It comes from that future you.” - Andrea Liebross  “A big thinker isn't immune to limiting thoughts, a big thinker just understands, ‘oh, I can choose to put that one aside and have a different thought about this,’” - LuAnn Nigara “There are times when you're set up in every way for a great opportunity, except the money. And if it's a really good calculated opportunity, you can't not do it because of the money.” - LuAnn Nigara “[Big thinking] is like the big umbrella. And then you need the tools, the strategy, the system's below to support that big thinking.” - Andrea Liebross “Your business is only going to grow at the rate that you're growing personally.” - Andrea Liebross “The messy middle is always there, but it's navigating it with more efficiency and more clarity, and more more speed.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Liebross Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems). Connect with Andrea Liebross  All Links Here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #447: Alex Gourlay: You Can Overcome Your Limiting Mindset and Belief System   AWDB #474: Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm   AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   AWDB #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense   AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate   AWDB #948: The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration   WTFP #99: Susan Day: How to Maintain Your Sales While Working a Finite Number of Weeks Fri, 15 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: It's Not Big Clients — It's BIG THINKING That Creates Success full 966 LuAnn Nigara Today With Andrea Liebross Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by certified business and life coach Andrea Liebross, who is on a mission to help women entrepreneurs discover their inner potential and redefine success. Andrea is also the... Today With Andrea Liebross Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by certified business and life coach Andrea Liebross, who is on a mission to help women entrepreneurs discover their inner potential and redefine success. Andrea is also the author of the bestselling book, “She Thinks Big” and host of the podcast, “Time to Level Up.” Today she is teaching us how to get out of the messy middle and move into the extraordinary with BIG THINKING. Tune in to learn Andrea’s 5 keys to becoming a big thinker. It’s all about TRUST! LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross's Ah-Ha Moments “That future you all she's filled with is enthusiasm, and wisdom and knowledge. So big thinking comes from a different place than today. It comes from that future you.” - Andrea Liebross  “A big thinker isn't immune to limiting thoughts, a big thinker just understands, ‘oh, I can choose to put that one aside and have a different thought about this,’” - LuAnn Nigara “There are times when you're set up in every way for a great opportunity, except the money. And if it's a really good calculated opportunity, you can't not do it because of the money.” - LuAnn Nigara “[Big thinking] is like the big umbrella. And then you need the tools, the strategy, the system's below to support that big thinking.” - Andrea Liebross “Your business is only going to grow at the rate that you're growing personally.” - Andrea Liebross “The messy middle is always there, but it's navigating it with more efficiency and more clarity, and more more speed.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Liebross Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems). Connect with Andrea Liebross  All Links Here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned:  WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #447: Alex Gourlay: You Can Overcome Your Limiting Mindset and Belief System   AWDB #474: Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm   AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   AWDB #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense   AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate   AWDB #948: The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration   WTFP #99: Susan Day: How to Maintain Your Sales While Working a Finite Number of Weeks Today With Andrea Liebross

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by certified business and life coach Andrea Liebross, who is on a mission to help women entrepreneurs discover their inner potential and redefine success. Andrea is also the author of the bestselling book, “She Thinks Big” and host of the podcast, “Time to Level Up.” Today she is teaching us how to get out of the messy middle and move into the extraordinary with BIG THINKING. Tune in to learn Andrea’s 5 keys to becoming a big thinker. It’s all about TRUST!

LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross's Ah-Ha Moments

“That future you all she's filled with is enthusiasm, and wisdom and knowledge. So big thinking comes from a different place than today. It comes from that future you.” - Andrea Liebross 

“A big thinker isn't immune to limiting thoughts, a big thinker just understands, ‘oh, I can choose to put that one aside and have a different thought about this,’” - LuAnn Nigara

“There are times when you're set up in every way for a great opportunity, except the money. And if it's a really good calculated opportunity, you can't not do it because of the money.” - LuAnn Nigara

“[Big thinking] is like the big umbrella. And then you need the tools, the strategy, the system's below to support that big thinking.” - Andrea Liebross

“Your business is only going to grow at the rate that you're growing personally.” - Andrea Liebross

“The messy middle is always there, but it's navigating it with more efficiency and more clarity, and more more speed.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Andrea Liebross

Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems).

Connect with Andrea Liebross

 All Links Here!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

 WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #447: Alex Gourlay: You Can Overcome Your Limiting Mindset and Belief System

 

AWDB #474: Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

 

AWDB #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

 

AWDB #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense

 

AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

 

AWDB #948: The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration

 

WTFP #99: Susan Day: How to Maintain Your Sales While Working a Finite Number of Weeks

]]> 4421 no 965: Mona Nahm: Equitable Design for People and the Planet http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/965-mona-nahm-equitable-design-for-people-and-the-planet Today With Mona Nahm Today on A Well-Designed business I am so happy to welcome Mona Nahm to the show. Mona is here sharing her incredible journey and her current work designing affordable housing. Mona truly understands how creating spaces with compassion at their core can empower people and allow them the safety and stability to reclaim their lives. Her glass-half-full spirit will leave you inspired. Listen now. LuAnn Nigara and Mona Nahm's Ah-Ha Moments “I just saw people with or without opportunities.” - Mona Nahm “The circumstances that you were in can create that lack of worth, and that lack of esteem, and so, therefore, you don't value yourself and then, therefore, you don't come to a relationship where you expect to be valued. And guess what? When we don't come to a relationship expecting to be valued—we're not.” - LuAnn Nigara “You have got to get the hope going, and the opportunities for enjoyment, so that you can aspire to do the next thing, right?” - LuAnn Nigara “If you're so focused on the difference, you'll never see the similarities.” - Mona Nahm Connect with Mona Nahm  Website Projects 730 Stanyan Projects Projects What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #03: Things Every Designer Should Know to Run a Successful Design Business with Shannon Leddy AWDB #29: Shannon Leddy Returns for Graduation Week- Best Tips for Landing Your 1st Job AWDB #71: Ellen Fisher- Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of New York School of Interior Design #569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition #670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know #773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation AWDB #809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:23:00 -0000 Mona Nahm: Equitable Design for People and the Planet full 965 LuAnn Nigara Today With Mona Nahm Today on A Well-Designed business I am so happy to welcome Mona Nahm to the show. Mona is here sharing her incredible journey and her current work designing affordable housing. Mona truly understands how creating spaces with... Today With Mona Nahm Today on A Well-Designed business I am so happy to welcome Mona Nahm to the show. Mona is here sharing her incredible journey and her current work designing affordable housing. Mona truly understands how creating spaces with compassion at their core can empower people and allow them the safety and stability to reclaim their lives. Her glass-half-full spirit will leave you inspired. Listen now. LuAnn Nigara and Mona Nahm's Ah-Ha Moments “I just saw people with or without opportunities.” - Mona Nahm “The circumstances that you were in can create that lack of worth, and that lack of esteem, and so, therefore, you don't value yourself and then, therefore, you don't come to a relationship where you expect to be valued. And guess what? When we don't come to a relationship expecting to be valued—we're not.” - LuAnn Nigara “You have got to get the hope going, and the opportunities for enjoyment, so that you can aspire to do the next thing, right?” - LuAnn Nigara “If you're so focused on the difference, you'll never see the similarities.” - Mona Nahm Connect with Mona Nahm  Website Projects 730 Stanyan Projects Projects What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #03: Things Every Designer Should Know to Run a Successful Design Business with Shannon Leddy AWDB #29: Shannon Leddy Returns for Graduation Week- Best Tips for Landing Your 1st Job AWDB #71: Ellen Fisher- Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of New York School of Interior Design #569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition #670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know #773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation AWDB #809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line Today With Mona Nahm

Today on A Well-Designed business I am so happy to welcome Mona Nahm to the show. Mona is here sharing her incredible journey and her current work designing affordable housing. Mona truly understands how creating spaces with compassion at their core can empower people and allow them the safety and stability to reclaim their lives. Her glass-half-full spirit will leave you inspired. Listen now.

LuAnn Nigara and Mona Nahm's Ah-Ha Moments

“I just saw people with or without opportunities.” - Mona Nahm

“The circumstances that you were in can create that lack of worth, and that lack of esteem, and so, therefore, you don't value yourself and then, therefore, you don't come to a relationship where you expect to be valued. And guess what? When we don't come to a relationship expecting to be valued—we're not.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You have got to get the hope going, and the opportunities for enjoyment, so that you can aspire to do the next thing, right?” - LuAnn Nigara

“If you're so focused on the difference, you'll never see the similarities.” - Mona Nahm

Connect with Mona Nahm 

Website

Projects

730 Stanyan

Projects

Projects

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #03: Things Every Designer Should Know to Run a Successful Design Business with Shannon Leddy

AWDB #29: Shannon Leddy Returns for Graduation Week- Best Tips for Landing Your 1st Job

AWDB #71: Ellen Fisher- Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of New York School of Interior Design

#569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition

#670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know

#773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation

AWDB #809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line

]]> 5128 no 964: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau: Unlock the Potential of Your Business Through Brand Photography http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/964-power-talk-friday-brittany-bowen-and-ava-vienneau-unlock-the-potential-of-your-business-through-brand-photography Today With Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Today on A Well-Designed Business, it is Power Talk Friday and I am joined by Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau. Brittany and Ava are the co-founders of Girls at Flourish, a full-service creative photography agency specializing in the luxury home industry. They help interior designers accurately represent their brand through their brand images, which sets them apart from the competition. We are discussing everything that goes into your brand images, how often you should have photos done, what they should represent, an acceptable balance of real life and professionalism, and more. LuAnn Nigara, Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau's Ah-Ha Moments “You should have a good mixture of “perfection” and realness in your photos to help build trust with clients,” - Brittany Bowen “There are ways to show you’re human and also have a beautifully curated portfolio and headshot,” - Ava Vienneau More About Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Brittany Bowen: With a degree in photography and over ten years of experience, she is dedicated to serving the up and comers in the interior design, real estate, and home professional world with elevated brand imagery. Brittany brings an extra, special “VIP Magic” to her shoots - which is why when you hire Girls at Flourish you’ll have everything taken care of from behind the scenes session prep to the easiest photo shoot you’ll ever have. She has a wonderful husband and two sweet boys, and enjoys travel, yoga, and trying out the latest restaurants. Ava Vienneau: With nearly 10 years of experience in her field and extensive training with renowned architectural and interior photographer, Lindsay Salazar, Ava brings a seasoned expertise to each client and project. When working with the team at Girls at Flourish, Ava brings a kind, generous and thoughtful understanding about how small businesses work and operate. She is passionate about ensuring the entire creative process is streamlined and seamless. When she isn’t behind the camera, you can find her strolling through antique shops and art galleries, listening to business podcasts, and sipping the finest coffee around. Connect with Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Website Website 2 Read more about us and our offerings/schedule a consult call! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles   Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients  #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton  #669: Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging  #756: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing  #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #955: Power Talk Friday: Sharon Lipovsky: The Power of a Clear Vision in Your Business Fri, 08 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau: Unlock the Potential of Your Business Through Brand Photography full 964 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Today on A Well-Designed Business, it is Power Talk Friday and I am joined by Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau. Brittany and Ava are the co-founders of Girls at Flourish, a full-service creative photography... Today With Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Today on A Well-Designed Business, it is Power Talk Friday and I am joined by Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau. Brittany and Ava are the co-founders of Girls at Flourish, a full-service creative photography agency specializing in the luxury home industry. They help interior designers accurately represent their brand through their brand images, which sets them apart from the competition. We are discussing everything that goes into your brand images, how often you should have photos done, what they should represent, an acceptable balance of real life and professionalism, and more. LuAnn Nigara, Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau's Ah-Ha Moments “You should have a good mixture of “perfection” and realness in your photos to help build trust with clients,” - Brittany Bowen “There are ways to show you’re human and also have a beautifully curated portfolio and headshot,” - Ava Vienneau More About Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Brittany Bowen: With a degree in photography and over ten years of experience, she is dedicated to serving the up and comers in the interior design, real estate, and home professional world with elevated brand imagery. Brittany brings an extra, special “VIP Magic” to her shoots - which is why when you hire Girls at Flourish you’ll have everything taken care of from behind the scenes session prep to the easiest photo shoot you’ll ever have. She has a wonderful husband and two sweet boys, and enjoys travel, yoga, and trying out the latest restaurants. Ava Vienneau: With nearly 10 years of experience in her field and extensive training with renowned architectural and interior photographer, Lindsay Salazar, Ava brings a seasoned expertise to each client and project. When working with the team at Girls at Flourish, Ava brings a kind, generous and thoughtful understanding about how small businesses work and operate. She is passionate about ensuring the entire creative process is streamlined and seamless. When she isn’t behind the camera, you can find her strolling through antique shops and art galleries, listening to business podcasts, and sipping the finest coffee around. Connect with Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau Website Website 2 Read more about us and our offerings/schedule a consult call! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles   Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients  #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton  #669: Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging  #756: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing  #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook #953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography #955: Power Talk Friday: Sharon Lipovsky: The Power of a Clear Vision in Your Business Today With Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau

Today on A Well-Designed Business, it is Power Talk Friday and I am joined by Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau. Brittany and Ava are the co-founders of Girls at Flourish, a full-service creative photography agency specializing in the luxury home industry. They help interior designers accurately represent their brand through their brand images, which sets them apart from the competition. We are discussing everything that goes into your brand images, how often you should have photos done, what they should represent, an acceptable balance of real life and professionalism, and more.

LuAnn Nigara, Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau's Ah-Ha Moments

“You should have a good mixture of “perfection” and realness in your photos to help build trust with clients,” - Brittany Bowen

“There are ways to show you’re human and also have a beautifully curated portfolio and headshot,” - Ava Vienneau

More About Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau

Brittany Bowen: With a degree in photography and over ten years of experience, she is dedicated to serving the up and comers in the interior design, real estate, and home professional world with elevated brand imagery. Brittany brings an extra, special “VIP Magic” to her shoots - which is why when you hire Girls at Flourish you’ll have everything taken care of from behind the scenes session prep to the easiest photo shoot you’ll ever have. She has a wonderful husband and two sweet boys, and enjoys travel, yoga, and trying out the latest restaurants.

Ava Vienneau: With nearly 10 years of experience in her field and extensive training with renowned architectural and interior photographer, Lindsay Salazar, Ava brings a seasoned expertise to each client and project. When working with the team at Girls at Flourish, Ava brings a kind, generous and thoughtful understanding about how small businesses work and operate. She is passionate about ensuring the entire creative process is streamlined and seamless. When she isn’t behind the camera, you can find her strolling through antique shops and art galleries, listening to business podcasts, and sipping the finest coffee around.

Connect with Brittany Bowen and Ava Vienneau

Website

Website 2

Read more about us and our offerings/schedule a consult call!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles

  Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

 #549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton

 #669: Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging

 #756: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

 #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

#935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

#953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography

#955: Power Talk Friday: Sharon Lipovsky: The Power of a Clear Vision in Your Business

]]> 3468 no 963: Adam Scougall: Choosing Your Interior Design Business as a Side Hustle http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/963-adam-scougall-choosing-your-interior-design-business-as-a-side-hustle Today With Adam Scougall Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am happy to welcome back Adam Scougall, of Adam Scougall Design. If you have ever considered pivoting from your full-time job to interior design, this episode is for you. It’s always valuable to hear two sides to every story. A lot of my guests have pivoted successfully into starting a design firm. Adam does have a successful design firm, but he pivoted right back into his full-time job while keeping design as a side hustle — and that couldn't have been a better choice for him. LuAnn Nigara and Adam Scougall's Ah-Ha Moments “I learned that design was a way to express myself as a creative outlet, but I didn’t need it to be full financial support,” - Adam Scougall “We don’t have to have someone else’s aspirational expectations on how to run a successful business, it’s what personal boundaries work for us,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Adam Scougall After working with a broad range of clients, some great and some a nightmare, Adam became tired of having to accept jobs that could make ends meet, as opposed to fulfilling his creative juices. Covid didn’t help financially, nor an always ‘pending’ recession, and after those years, Adam realized he did not wish to pursue a ‘be all and end all’ approach to his design career. He wanted stability, steadier finances and the ability to only take on design work that fulfilled both his own and client vision. Adam now enjoys what we call a lifestyle business, balancing projects he only wants to take on whilst [now happily] holding down a full-time gig at his corporate firm of choice. He has also developed his own signature design implementation system that employs other designers to assist day to day, with Adam coming in only at key points in the project. Adam recently launched his Podcast and YouTube show ‘So You Want to be an Interior Designer’ where he shares his experiences. His aim for the show is to teach the thrills, reveal the spills and share how you can also create an Interior Design career that suits your lifestyle. Connect with Adam Scougall Website Quiz YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full Time Job Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Adam Scougall: Choosing Your Interior Design Business as a Side Hustle full 963 LuAnn Nigara Today With Adam Scougall Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am happy to welcome back Adam Scougall, of Adam Scougall Design. If you have ever considered pivoting from your full-time job to interior design, this episode is for you. It’s always... Today With Adam Scougall Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am happy to welcome back Adam Scougall, of Adam Scougall Design. If you have ever considered pivoting from your full-time job to interior design, this episode is for you. It’s always valuable to hear two sides to every story. A lot of my guests have pivoted successfully into starting a design firm. Adam does have a successful design firm, but he pivoted right back into his full-time job while keeping design as a side hustle — and that couldn't have been a better choice for him. LuAnn Nigara and Adam Scougall's Ah-Ha Moments “I learned that design was a way to express myself as a creative outlet, but I didn’t need it to be full financial support,” - Adam Scougall “We don’t have to have someone else’s aspirational expectations on how to run a successful business, it’s what personal boundaries work for us,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Adam Scougall After working with a broad range of clients, some great and some a nightmare, Adam became tired of having to accept jobs that could make ends meet, as opposed to fulfilling his creative juices. Covid didn’t help financially, nor an always ‘pending’ recession, and after those years, Adam realized he did not wish to pursue a ‘be all and end all’ approach to his design career. He wanted stability, steadier finances and the ability to only take on design work that fulfilled both his own and client vision. Adam now enjoys what we call a lifestyle business, balancing projects he only wants to take on whilst [now happily] holding down a full-time gig at his corporate firm of choice. He has also developed his own signature design implementation system that employs other designers to assist day to day, with Adam coming in only at key points in the project. Adam recently launched his Podcast and YouTube show ‘So You Want to be an Interior Designer’ where he shares his experiences. His aim for the show is to teach the thrills, reveal the spills and share how you can also create an Interior Design career that suits your lifestyle. Connect with Adam Scougall Website Quiz YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors   AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full Time Job Today With Adam Scougall

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am happy to welcome back Adam Scougall, of Adam Scougall Design. If you have ever considered pivoting from your full-time job to interior design, this episode is for you. It’s always valuable to hear two sides to every story. A lot of my guests have pivoted successfully into starting a design firm. Adam does have a successful design firm, but he pivoted right back into his full-time job while keeping design as a side hustle — and that couldn't have been a better choice for him.

LuAnn Nigara and Adam Scougall's Ah-Ha Moments

“I learned that design was a way to express myself as a creative outlet, but I didn’t need it to be full financial support,” - Adam Scougall

“We don’t have to have someone else’s aspirational expectations on how to run a successful business, it’s what personal boundaries work for us,” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Adam Scougall

After working with a broad range of clients, some great and some a nightmare, Adam became tired of having to accept jobs that could make ends meet, as opposed to fulfilling his creative juices. Covid didn’t help financially, nor an always ‘pending’ recession, and after those years, Adam realized he did not wish to pursue a ‘be all and end all’ approach to his design career. He wanted stability, steadier finances and the ability to only take on design work that fulfilled both his own and client vision.

Adam now enjoys what we call a lifestyle business, balancing projects he only wants to take on whilst [now happily] holding down a full-time gig at his corporate firm of choice. He has also developed his own signature design implementation system that employs other designers to assist day to day, with Adam coming in only at key points in the project.

Adam recently launched his Podcast and YouTube show ‘So You Want to be an Interior Designer’ where he shares his experiences.

His aim for the show is to teach the thrills, reveal the spills and share how you can also create an Interior Design career that suits your lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Scougall

Website

Quiz

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

 

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

 

AWDB #251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full Time Job

]]> 3670 no 962: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 2 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/962-its-the-8th-birthday-of-the-podcast-thank-you-kravet-inc-part-2 Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand. RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE! Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett Mary Fisher Joni Vanderslice Barclay Butera Barry Lantz Candice Olsen Mabley Handler Joe Cariati David Phoenix Corey Damen Jenkins Sue Firestone Nate Berkus Jan Showers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships   AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur   AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com   AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success   AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business   AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc   AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives   AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited   AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman   AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc   AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet   AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry   AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career   AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer   AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Sat, 02 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000 It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 2 full 962 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down... Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand. RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE! Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett Mary Fisher Joni Vanderslice Barclay Butera Barry Lantz Candice Olsen Mabley Handler Joe Cariati David Phoenix Corey Damen Jenkins Sue Firestone Nate Berkus Jan Showers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships   AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur   AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com   AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success   AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business   AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc   AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives   AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited   AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman   AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc   AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet   AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry   AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career   AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer   AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Today With Kravet Inc.

Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand.

RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE!

Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett

Mary Fisher

Joni Vanderslice

Barclay Butera

Barry Lantz

Candice Olsen

Mabley Handler

Joe Cariati

David Phoenix

Corey Damen Jenkins

Sue Firestone

Nate Berkus

Jan Showers

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

 

AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur

 

AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com

 

AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!

 

AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success

 

AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business

 

AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc

 

AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives

 

AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited

 

AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

 

AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc

 

AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

 

AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry

 

AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career

 

AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer

 

AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years

]]> 4262 no 961: It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 1 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/961-its-the-8th-birthday-of-the-podcast-thank-you-kravet-inc-part-1 Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand. RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE! Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett Mary Fisher Joni Vanderslice Barclay Butera Barry Lantz Candice Olsen Mabley Handler Joe Cariati David Phoenix Corey Damen Jenkins Sue Firestone Nate Berkus Jan Showers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships   AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur   AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com   AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success   AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business   AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc   AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives   AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited   AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman   AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc   AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet   AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry   AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career   AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer   AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000 It’s the 8th Birthday of the Podcast; Thank You Kravet Inc.! PART 1 full 961 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down... Today With Kravet Inc. Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand. RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE! Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett Mary Fisher Joni Vanderslice Barclay Butera Barry Lantz Candice Olsen Mabley Handler Joe Cariati David Phoenix Corey Damen Jenkins Sue Firestone Nate Berkus Jan Showers What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships   AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur   AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com   AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success   AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business   AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc   AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives   AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited   AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman   AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc   AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet   AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry   AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career   AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer   AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Today With Kravet Inc.

Today on A Well Designed Business we are doing things a little different in celebration of our Eighth Birthday. We are paying tribute to Kravet, Inc., our sponsor here on the podcast since the beginning with a trip down memory lane. We are kicking things off with a clip from my interview with Scott Kravet, when we were celebrating our 100th show, and continue through clips featuring 14 more designers and industry experts all sharing their sentiments on this iconic brand.

RSVP to SWDD Market Day HERE!

Kravet Collections: Malene Barrett

Mary Fisher

Joni Vanderslice

Barclay Butera

Barry Lantz

Candice Olsen

Mabley Handler

Joe Cariati

David Phoenix

Corey Damen Jenkins

Sue Firestone

Nate Berkus

Jan Showers

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

 

AWDB #34: Mary Fisher – Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur

 

AWDB #59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com

 

AWDB #100: Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!

 

AWDB #101: Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success

 

AWDB #122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business

 

AWDB #173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc

 

AWDB #197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives

 

AWDB #360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited

 

AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman

 

AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc

 

AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

 

AWDB #446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry

 

AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career

 

AWDB #697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer

 

AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years

]]> 3578 no 960: Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/960-laura-hodges-the-behind-the-scenes-of-the-southern-living-showhouse Today With Laura Hodges Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Show Houses are big undertakings…but what if it wasn’t just one room—what if it was an entire house? Would it be worth it if it landed you in a major publication like Southern Living? My guest today, Laura Hodges, recently designed the Idea House for Southern Living. And while she put in countless hours of blood, sweat, and tears, she absolutely believes that a show house can be worth the investment. Today, she’s here to share what it takes and what you can get from a show house experience. LuAnn Nigara and Laura Hodges's Ah-Ha Moments “We started with having the confidence to say yes to a major opportunity. But this is not for the meek of hard work. This is not even just doing a regular show house where you design one room, which is a monumental project to do.” -LuAnn  “It was really important to me that the design house was welcoming and accessible for a wide range of people, variety of cultures.” -Laura More About Laura Hodges Laura Hodges is an interior designer with a boutique design firm and retail shop in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area. With a focus on creating beautiful spaces that reflect her clients' taste, Laura's signature aesthetic is narrative, layered, classically tailored and modern, featuring unique vintage finds and curated art. Laura is also a brand ambassador for the Sustainable Furnishings Council, working to increase awareness for sustainable design. Connect with Laura Hodges Website Website Cabinetry Collection What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)   #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Laura Hodges: The Behind the Scenes of the Southern Living Showhouse full 960 LuAnn Nigara Today With Laura Hodges Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Show Houses are big undertakings…but what if it wasn’t just one room—what if it was an entire house? Would it be worth it if it landed you in a major publication like... Today With Laura Hodges Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Show Houses are big undertakings…but what if it wasn’t just one room—what if it was an entire house? Would it be worth it if it landed you in a major publication like Southern Living? My guest today, Laura Hodges, recently designed the Idea House for Southern Living. And while she put in countless hours of blood, sweat, and tears, she absolutely believes that a show house can be worth the investment. Today, she’s here to share what it takes and what you can get from a show house experience. LuAnn Nigara and Laura Hodges's Ah-Ha Moments “We started with having the confidence to say yes to a major opportunity. But this is not for the meek of hard work. This is not even just doing a regular show house where you design one room, which is a monumental project to do.” -LuAnn  “It was really important to me that the design house was welcoming and accessible for a wide range of people, variety of cultures.” -Laura More About Laura Hodges Laura Hodges is an interior designer with a boutique design firm and retail shop in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area. With a focus on creating beautiful spaces that reflect her clients' taste, Laura's signature aesthetic is narrative, layered, classically tailored and modern, featuring unique vintage finds and curated art. Laura is also a brand ambassador for the Sustainable Furnishings Council, working to increase awareness for sustainable design. Connect with Laura Hodges Website Website Cabinetry Collection What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)   #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Today With Laura Hodges

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Show Houses are big undertakings…but what if it wasn’t just one room—what if it was an entire house? Would it be worth it if it landed you in a major publication like Southern Living? My guest today, Laura Hodges, recently designed the Idea House for Southern Living. And while she put in countless hours of blood, sweat, and tears, she absolutely believes that a show house can be worth the investment. Today, she’s here to share what it takes and what you can get from a show house experience.

LuAnn Nigara and Laura Hodges's Ah-Ha Moments

“We started with having the confidence to say yes to a major opportunity. But this is not for the meek of hard work. This is not even just doing a regular show house where you design one room, which is a monumental project to do.” -LuAnn 

“It was really important to me that the design house was welcoming and accessible for a wide range of people, variety of cultures.” -Laura

More About Laura Hodges

Laura Hodges is an interior designer with a boutique design firm and retail shop in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area. With a focus on creating beautiful spaces that reflect her clients' taste, Laura's signature aesthetic is narrative, layered, classically tailored and modern, featuring unique vintage finds and curated art. Laura is also a brand ambassador for the Sustainable Furnishings Council, working to increase awareness for sustainable design.

Connect with Laura Hodges

Website

Website

Cabinetry Collection

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

 

#912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers

]]> 4425 no 959: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: How to Take Calculated Risks in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/959-power-talk-friday-traci-connell-how-to-take-calculated-risks-in-your-interior-design-business Today With Traci Connell  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Traci Connell, founder of The Gloss—a free online learning community for designers—breaks down her upcoming Mastermind program. She also walks us through her proven framework for overcoming money mindset blocks and learning how to take calculated risks that pay off in your business. Pick It Apart: [1:40] Traci and LuAnn discuss why money mindset is what truly holds most business owners back from reaching their goals. [11:13] Traci begins unpacking her RISK framework, discussing how important it is to view mistakes as learning opportunities. [15:21] LuAnn and Traci discuss why investing in your business and in yourself is a key to success. [23:48] Traci reflects on the value of knowing your numbers—and using those numbers to make smart business decisions. [39:05] Traci breaks down her coaching programs and how they can benefit you.  LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments “Our money mindset belief becomes a filter by which we consciously and unconsciously make decisions.” -LuAnn “I’m so passionate about numbers because I want you to take a calculated risk, and to me the three components to doing that are having time, having money, and having a team of great people.” -Traci “I had to find a way to set myself apart in order to become the expert and specialized and even charge higher design fees.” -Traci More About Traci Connell  Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture. With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board. Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021, D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more. Connect with Traci Connell The Gloss The Confidential Instagram Register for the Buy Wholesale for Profit intensive! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by The Gloss. Other Shows Mentioned: #525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success   #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit   #909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss   #950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People Fri, 23 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: How to Take Calculated Risks in Your Interior Design Business full 959 LuAnn Nigara Today With Traci Connell  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Traci Connell, founder of The Gloss—a free online learning community for designers—breaks down her upcoming Mastermind program. She also walks us... Today With Traci Connell  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Traci Connell, founder of The Gloss—a free online learning community for designers—breaks down her upcoming Mastermind program. She also walks us through her proven framework for overcoming money mindset blocks and learning how to take calculated risks that pay off in your business. Pick It Apart: [1:40] Traci and LuAnn discuss why money mindset is what truly holds most business owners back from reaching their goals. [11:13] Traci begins unpacking her RISK framework, discussing how important it is to view mistakes as learning opportunities. [15:21] LuAnn and Traci discuss why investing in your business and in yourself is a key to success. [23:48] Traci reflects on the value of knowing your numbers—and using those numbers to make smart business decisions. [39:05] Traci breaks down her coaching programs and how they can benefit you.  LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments “Our money mindset belief becomes a filter by which we consciously and unconsciously make decisions.” -LuAnn “I’m so passionate about numbers because I want you to take a calculated risk, and to me the three components to doing that are having time, having money, and having a team of great people.” -Traci “I had to find a way to set myself apart in order to become the expert and specialized and even charge higher design fees.” -Traci More About Traci Connell  Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture. With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board. Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021, D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more. Connect with Traci Connell The Gloss The Confidential Instagram Register for the Buy Wholesale for Profit intensive! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by The Gloss. Other Shows Mentioned: #525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success   #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit   #909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss   #950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People Today With Traci Connell 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Traci Connell, founder of The Gloss—a free online learning community for designers—breaks down her upcoming Mastermind program.

She also walks us through her proven framework for overcoming money mindset blocks and learning how to take calculated risks that pay off in your business.

Pick It Apart:

[1:40] Traci and LuAnn discuss why money mindset is what truly holds most business owners back from reaching their goals.

[11:13] Traci begins unpacking her RISK framework, discussing how important it is to view mistakes as learning opportunities.

[15:21] LuAnn and Traci discuss why investing in your business and in yourself is a key to success.

[23:48] Traci reflects on the value of knowing your numbers—and using those numbers to make smart business decisions.

[39:05] Traci breaks down her coaching programs and how they can benefit you. 

LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments

“Our money mindset belief becomes a filter by which we consciously and unconsciously make decisions.” -LuAnn

“I’m so passionate about numbers because I want you to take a calculated risk, and to me the three components to doing that are having time, having money, and having a team of great people.” -Traci

“I had to find a way to set myself apart in order to become the expert and specialized and even charge higher design fees.” -Traci

More About Traci Connell 

Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture.

With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes.

Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board.

Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021, D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more.

Connect with Traci Connell

The Gloss

The Confidential

Instagram

Register for the Buy Wholesale for Profit intensive!

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show is sponsored by The Gloss.

Other Shows Mentioned: #525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success

 

#554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

 

#909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

 

#950 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

]]> 3439 no 958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/958-overheard-what-i-wish-i-knew-then-with-kate-ohara-erika-ward-jennifer-stoner-and-alex-alonso Today With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso: Today on the podcast I’m joined by Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso, for the second in our new series, Overheard. We’re taking a trip down memory lane and talking about what we wish we knew then—spilling the tea on times we’ve tripped up, and sharing the qualified advice and business-savvy gleaned from those tough times. Because whether you’re a beginning, rising or seasoned designer, there are always mistakes made along the way, but, more importantly, lessons learned. Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments “If you find yourself in a position of not being able to define, then you might be in that pattern of the of the yes mode. And life gets a lot better, and the job gets a lot more fun, when you're able to identify your ideal clients.” - Kate O’Hara “Document. Document. Document. Write everything down. And then don't just hold on to it, but make sure you share it, or it's in a place where it can be accessed [by your co-workers] if you're not available.” - Alex Alonso “You will arrive, but it may be via a different mode of transportation… I think keeping that in mind, prevents you from trying to model someone else's process and really staying true and authentic to making this business part of your lifestyle.” - Erika Ward “What is meant to be is meant to be, and that was always meant to be part of my journey. So I can't hide my head in the sand about it. I just have to take my lumps and move on.” - Jennifer Stoner More About Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex: Erika Ward: Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work. Kate O’Hara: Today, O’Hara Interiors is one of the most well-known interior design studios in the country whose award-winning work has been featured on the Architectural Digest, Wall Street Journal, Better Homes and Gardens and beyond. Jennifer Stoner: She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product. Alex Alonso: Alex is a maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Connect with Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex:  Jennifer Stoner’s Website Kate O’Hara’s Website Erika Ward’s Website Alex’s Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 20 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso full 958 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso: Today on the podcast I’m joined by Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso, for the second in our new series, Overheard. We’re taking a trip down memory... Today With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso: Today on the podcast I’m joined by Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso, for the second in our new series, Overheard. We’re taking a trip down memory lane and talking about what we wish we knew then—spilling the tea on times we’ve tripped up, and sharing the qualified advice and business-savvy gleaned from those tough times. Because whether you’re a beginning, rising or seasoned designer, there are always mistakes made along the way, but, more importantly, lessons learned. Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments “If you find yourself in a position of not being able to define, then you might be in that pattern of the of the yes mode. And life gets a lot better, and the job gets a lot more fun, when you're able to identify your ideal clients.” - Kate O’Hara “Document. Document. Document. Write everything down. And then don't just hold on to it, but make sure you share it, or it's in a place where it can be accessed [by your co-workers] if you're not available.” - Alex Alonso “You will arrive, but it may be via a different mode of transportation… I think keeping that in mind, prevents you from trying to model someone else's process and really staying true and authentic to making this business part of your lifestyle.” - Erika Ward “What is meant to be is meant to be, and that was always meant to be part of my journey. So I can't hide my head in the sand about it. I just have to take my lumps and move on.” - Jennifer Stoner More About Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex: Erika Ward: Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work. Kate O’Hara: Today, O’Hara Interiors is one of the most well-known interior design studios in the country whose award-winning work has been featured on the Architectural Digest, Wall Street Journal, Better Homes and Gardens and beyond. Jennifer Stoner: She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product. Alex Alonso: Alex is a maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Connect with Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex:  Jennifer Stoner’s Website Kate O’Hara’s Website Erika Ward’s Website Alex’s Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso:

Today on the podcast I’m joined by Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso, for the second in our new series, Overheard. We’re taking a trip down memory lane and talking about what we wish we knew then—spilling the tea on times we’ve tripped up, and sharing the qualified advice and business-savvy gleaned from those tough times. Because whether you’re a beginning, rising or seasoned designer, there are always mistakes made along the way, but, more importantly, lessons learned.

Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you find yourself in a position of not being able to define, then you might be in that pattern of the of the yes mode. And life gets a lot better, and the job gets a lot more fun, when you're able to identify your ideal clients.” - Kate O’Hara

“Document. Document. Document. Write everything down. And then don't just hold on to it, but make sure you share it, or it's in a place where it can be accessed [by your co-workers] if you're not available.” - Alex Alonso

“You will arrive, but it may be via a different mode of transportation… I think keeping that in mind, prevents you from trying to model someone else's process and really staying true and authentic to making this business part of your lifestyle.” - Erika Ward

“What is meant to be is meant to be, and that was always meant to be part of my journey. So I can't hide my head in the sand about it. I just have to take my lumps and move on.” - Jennifer Stoner

More About Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex:

Erika Ward: Since the establishment of Erika Ward Interiors in 2006, the firm has experienced remarkable growth. Impressively, more than eighty percent of Erika's business stems from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to the enduring quality of her work.

Kate O’Hara: Today, O’Hara Interiors is one of the most well-known interior design studios in the country whose award-winning work has been featured on the Architectural Digest, Wall Street Journal, Better Homes and Gardens and beyond.

Jennifer Stoner: She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product.

Alex Alonso: Alex is a maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces.

Connect with Kate, Erika, Jennifer, and Alex:

 Jennifer Stoner’s Website

Kate O’Hara’s Website

Erika Ward’s Website

Alex’s Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 5193 no 957: Power Talk Friday: Audrey Faust: Building Wealth Through a Positive Money Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/957-audrey-faust-power-talk-friday-building-wealth-through-a-positive-money-mindset Today With Audrey Faust Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Audrey Faust of Faust Consulting. Audrey is an accomplished finance expert with an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification. She works with women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey’s clients build wealth through her non-judgmental space for learning and growth. Today’s episode is not your average finance conversation. In addition to some other tips, you may be relieved to know that Audrey gives one main strategy for building wealth that anyone, anywhere, at any time can do. And that is to change your money mindset.  LuAnn Nigara and Audrey Faust's Ah-Ha Moments “Businesses are 80% more successful if they look at their finances monthly,” - Audrey Faust “What you focus on grows, whether it be your money or your wealth, it grows,” - Audrey Faust More About Audrey Faust Audrey Faust is an accomplished finance expert, dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey holds an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification, Audrey has successfully built her own multi-million-dollar wealth through various types of personal endeavors and investments. She is committed to promoting financial literacy among women, she provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for learning and growth, which has led to clients achieving great success. Audrey's vision extends beyond financial prosperity; she encourages women to attain comprehensive wealth, encompassing monetary success, time, and ultimate freedom. She equips women with the necessary tools and wisdom to confidently build wealth. Audrey’s primary goal? To help women build genuine wealth and foster enduring peace of mind concerning their financial future. When she's not working, Audrey cherishes her time with her husband, their three adult children, a grandchild, and her three four-legged friends. She loves to travel between her homes in Northeastern PA and Southwestern FL, soaking in each place's distinct charm. Connect with Audrey Faust Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers   AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth   WTFP: #254: Jessica Harling: Confronting or Firing Family Members in Your Business   WTFP 256: Jessica Harling: Firing a Family Member Part 2: 9 Tips to Make it as Painless as Possible Fri, 16 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Audrey Faust: Building Wealth Through a Positive Money Mindset full 957 LuAnn Nigara Today With Audrey Faust Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Audrey Faust of Faust Consulting. Audrey is an accomplished finance expert with an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification.... Today With Audrey Faust Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Audrey Faust of Faust Consulting. Audrey is an accomplished finance expert with an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification. She works with women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey’s clients build wealth through her non-judgmental space for learning and growth. Today’s episode is not your average finance conversation. In addition to some other tips, you may be relieved to know that Audrey gives one main strategy for building wealth that anyone, anywhere, at any time can do. And that is to change your money mindset.  LuAnn Nigara and Audrey Faust's Ah-Ha Moments “Businesses are 80% more successful if they look at their finances monthly,” - Audrey Faust “What you focus on grows, whether it be your money or your wealth, it grows,” - Audrey Faust More About Audrey Faust Audrey Faust is an accomplished finance expert, dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey holds an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification, Audrey has successfully built her own multi-million-dollar wealth through various types of personal endeavors and investments. She is committed to promoting financial literacy among women, she provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for learning and growth, which has led to clients achieving great success. Audrey's vision extends beyond financial prosperity; she encourages women to attain comprehensive wealth, encompassing monetary success, time, and ultimate freedom. She equips women with the necessary tools and wisdom to confidently build wealth. Audrey’s primary goal? To help women build genuine wealth and foster enduring peace of mind concerning their financial future. When she's not working, Audrey cherishes her time with her husband, their three adult children, a grandchild, and her three four-legged friends. She loves to travel between her homes in Northeastern PA and Southwestern FL, soaking in each place's distinct charm. Connect with Audrey Faust Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers   AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth   WTFP: #254: Jessica Harling: Confronting or Firing Family Members in Your Business   WTFP 256: Jessica Harling: Firing a Family Member Part 2: 9 Tips to Make it as Painless as Possible Today With Audrey Faust

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Audrey Faust of Faust Consulting. Audrey is an accomplished finance expert with an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification. She works with women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey’s clients build wealth through her non-judgmental space for learning and growth. Today’s episode is not your average finance conversation. In addition to some other tips, you may be relieved to know that Audrey gives one main strategy for building wealth that anyone, anywhere, at any time can do. And that is to change your money mindset. 

LuAnn Nigara and Audrey Faust's Ah-Ha Moments

“Businesses are 80% more successful if they look at their finances monthly,” - Audrey Faust

“What you focus on grows, whether it be your money or your wealth, it grows,” - Audrey Faust

More About Audrey Faust

Audrey Faust is an accomplished finance expert, dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs to take charge of their finances. Audrey holds an accounting degree, an MBA, and a NeuroCoach certification, Audrey has successfully built her own multi-million-dollar wealth through various types of personal endeavors and investments. She is committed to promoting financial literacy among women, she provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for learning and growth, which has led to clients achieving great success. Audrey's vision extends beyond financial prosperity; she encourages women to attain comprehensive wealth, encompassing monetary success, time, and ultimate freedom. She equips women with the necessary tools and wisdom to confidently build wealth. Audrey’s primary goal? To help women build genuine wealth and foster enduring peace of mind concerning their financial future. When she's not working, Audrey cherishes her time with her husband, their three adult children, a grandchild, and her three four-legged friends. She loves to travel between her homes in Northeastern PA and Southwestern FL, soaking in each place's distinct charm.

Connect with Audrey Faust

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

 

AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth

 

WTFP: #254: Jessica Harling: Confronting or Firing Family Members in Your Business

 

WTFP 256: Jessica Harling: Firing a Family Member Part 2: 9 Tips to Make it as Painless as Possible

]]> 4690 no 956: Nina Parvaresh: Lessons Learned from Building a Global Interior Design Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/956-nina-parvaresh-lessons-learned-from-building-a-global-interior-design-brand Today With Nina Parvaresh: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Nina Parvaresh, founder and principal of Concept-Me, is the definition of a go-getter. After training as an architect in Paris, Nina began her career at the age of 23 by jumping foot-first into a full-scale design project in the Middle East. Nina has faced many unique challenges. And yet, in many ways Nina struggles with the same things that many entrepreneurs do—trying to break away from the grind to focus on becoming the CEO. Today, she’s here to talk about the unique aspects of global design work, the importance of knowing your clients and understanding the market, and how she hopes to grow her firm. Nina Parvaresh's Ah-Ha Moment “This is not a job you can do individually. You need to be able to count on people as the years go by, and you need to be able to surround yourself with experts that are better than you.” -Nina More About Nina Parvaresh As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want, and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team and their international talent. I take it upon me to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. As part of a multi-disciplnary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department! Connect with Nina Parvaresh Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #578 Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!  #639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot  #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business  #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan  #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects  #951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects  255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy  253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk Tue, 13 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Nina Parvaresh: Lessons Learned from Building a Global Interior Design Brand full 956 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nina Parvaresh: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Nina Parvaresh, founder and principal of Concept-Me, is the definition of a go-getter.  After training as an architect in Paris, Nina began her career at the age... Today With Nina Parvaresh: Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Nina Parvaresh, founder and principal of Concept-Me, is the definition of a go-getter. After training as an architect in Paris, Nina began her career at the age of 23 by jumping foot-first into a full-scale design project in the Middle East. Nina has faced many unique challenges. And yet, in many ways Nina struggles with the same things that many entrepreneurs do—trying to break away from the grind to focus on becoming the CEO. Today, she’s here to talk about the unique aspects of global design work, the importance of knowing your clients and understanding the market, and how she hopes to grow her firm. Nina Parvaresh's Ah-Ha Moment “This is not a job you can do individually. You need to be able to count on people as the years go by, and you need to be able to surround yourself with experts that are better than you.” -Nina More About Nina Parvaresh As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want, and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team and their international talent. I take it upon me to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. As part of a multi-disciplnary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department! Connect with Nina Parvaresh Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #578 Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!  #639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot  #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business  #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan  #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects  #951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects  255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy  253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk Today With Nina Parvaresh:

Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Nina Parvaresh, founder and principal of Concept-Me, is the definition of a go-getter. After training as an architect in Paris, Nina began her career at the age of 23 by jumping foot-first into a full-scale design project in the Middle East. Nina has faced many unique challenges. And yet, in many ways Nina struggles with the same things that many entrepreneurs do—trying to break away from the grind to focus on becoming the CEO. Today, she’s here to talk about the unique aspects of global design work, the importance of knowing your clients and understanding the market, and how she hopes to grow her firm.

Nina Parvaresh's Ah-Ha Moment

“This is not a job you can do individually. You need to be able to count on people as the years go by, and you need to be able to surround yourself with experts that are better than you.” -Nina

More About Nina Parvaresh

As a boutique scale firm, my vision for Concept Me was to handle projects in a very holistic manner that takes the project from A to Z. Whatever we do is always focused on creating a unique personality for any space. My aim is to have clients that trust us blindly, tell us what they want, and then get peace of mind until we hand over the project they had seen in their mind’s eye. We’ve made this possible at Concept Me with our multi-disciplinary team and their international talent. I take it upon me to understand my client’s mindstate, to reassure them, to direct their vision and to inform them of the rationale behind our design choices and how we can bring their space to life in the best way possible. As part of a multi-disciplnary team, one that is driven by creative input, it can become challenging to keep all the creative choices from different people consistent, so that’s where I come in so we can have a final, polished, cohesive space instead of a pastiche. And finally, one of the hats I wear is the business development hat, whereby I keep signing deals while heading the design department!

Connect with Nina Parvaresh

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

TikTok

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #578 Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!

 #639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot

 #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

 #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

 #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

 #951 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects

 255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy

 253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk

]]> 3911 no 955: Power Talk Friday: Sharon Lipovsky: The Power of a Clear Vision in Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/955-power-talk-friday-sharon-lipovsky-the-power-of-a-clear-vision-in-your-business Today With Sharon Lipovsky: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Sharon Lipovsky, owner of Point Road Studios. Sharon aims to banish the world of limiting mindsets. Sharon has helped many interior designers attain their vision, including taking an aspiring interior designer from idea to seven figure business. Point Road Studios supports human development as a required step to growing both our influence and our bottom lines. LuAnn Nigara and Sharon Lipovsky's Ah-Ha Moments “When we lead with vision we can look to the future to get inspired and also look to the past to recognize how your story may be both holding you back and propelling you towards your vision.” - Sharon Lipovsky “There has to be space for you to recognize when your intuition has gathered the correct data, but also honor and recognize how and when to act upon it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sharon Lipovsky Driven by her personal mission to banish the world of limiting mindsets, Sharon believes that there is nothing stopping you. She leverages her champion listening superpower with clients to spark awareness, shift perspectives and energize the growth process. Her work is informed by her background as a sales and marketing executive, change agent and business owner. Sharon partners with clients ranging from tech-savvy startups and founder-led enterprises to globally-recognized brands and corporate powerhouses. What unites the leaders and teams she supports is that they are reinventing the way we do business. Point Road clients celebrate that focusing on human development is a necessary step to growing both our impact and our bottom lines. Together we really can do more than the sum of our individual parts. You can connect with Sharon every Wednesday on the Design Yourself podcast where she shares tips and inspiration for how to lead a well-designed life. As part of designing her own self, Sharon relocated in 2018 from her native Washington, DC to the Catskills of NY. You can read about her adventures in reimagining home in Dwell and the New York Times. When not stewarding the visions of her clients, you might find Sharon sowing seeds in the garden with her children, delighting in the creative cuisine of her husband or cold plunging with girlfriends. Connect with Sharon Lipovsky Website Instagram  LinkedIn: Point Road Studios Linked In: Sharon Lipovsky Design Yourself Podcast: Apple Podcasts Sharon's Home Features: NYT Dwell What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You've Defined Your Brand...Now What? - LuAnn Nigara   881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business - LuAnn Nigara Other Resources Mentioned: 5-minute Vision Meditation   Book Your Vision Reading - For the next 4 weeks, you can use code “luann” for additional $100 savings!   Oprah Clip   Early Adopters of Remote Work, They Moved Upstate Before Covid - The New York Times (nytimes.com) Fri, 09 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sharon Lipovsky: The Power of a Clear Vision in Your Business full 955 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sharon Lipovsky: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Sharon Lipovsky, owner of Point Road Studios. Sharon aims to banish the world of limiting mindsets. Sharon has helped many... Today With Sharon Lipovsky: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Sharon Lipovsky, owner of Point Road Studios. Sharon aims to banish the world of limiting mindsets. Sharon has helped many interior designers attain their vision, including taking an aspiring interior designer from idea to seven figure business. Point Road Studios supports human development as a required step to growing both our influence and our bottom lines. LuAnn Nigara and Sharon Lipovsky's Ah-Ha Moments “When we lead with vision we can look to the future to get inspired and also look to the past to recognize how your story may be both holding you back and propelling you towards your vision.” - Sharon Lipovsky “There has to be space for you to recognize when your intuition has gathered the correct data, but also honor and recognize how and when to act upon it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sharon Lipovsky Driven by her personal mission to banish the world of limiting mindsets, Sharon believes that there is nothing stopping you. She leverages her champion listening superpower with clients to spark awareness, shift perspectives and energize the growth process. Her work is informed by her background as a sales and marketing executive, change agent and business owner. Sharon partners with clients ranging from tech-savvy startups and founder-led enterprises to globally-recognized brands and corporate powerhouses. What unites the leaders and teams she supports is that they are reinventing the way we do business. Point Road clients celebrate that focusing on human development is a necessary step to growing both our impact and our bottom lines. Together we really can do more than the sum of our individual parts. You can connect with Sharon every Wednesday on the Design Yourself podcast where she shares tips and inspiration for how to lead a well-designed life. As part of designing her own self, Sharon relocated in 2018 from her native Washington, DC to the Catskills of NY. You can read about her adventures in reimagining home in Dwell and the New York Times. When not stewarding the visions of her clients, you might find Sharon sowing seeds in the garden with her children, delighting in the creative cuisine of her husband or cold plunging with girlfriends. Connect with Sharon Lipovsky Website Instagram  LinkedIn: Point Road Studios Linked In: Sharon Lipovsky Design Yourself Podcast: Apple Podcasts Sharon's Home Features: NYT Dwell What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You've Defined Your Brand...Now What? - LuAnn Nigara   881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business - LuAnn Nigara Other Resources Mentioned: 5-minute Vision Meditation   Book Your Vision Reading - For the next 4 weeks, you can use code “luann” for additional $100 savings!   Oprah Clip   Early Adopters of Remote Work, They Moved Upstate Before Covid - The New York Times (nytimes.com) Today With Sharon Lipovsky:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Sharon Lipovsky, owner of Point Road Studios. Sharon aims to banish the world of limiting mindsets. Sharon has helped many interior designers attain their vision, including taking an aspiring interior designer from idea to seven figure business. Point Road Studios supports human development as a required step to growing both our influence and our bottom lines.

LuAnn Nigara and Sharon Lipovsky's Ah-Ha Moments

“When we lead with vision we can look to the future to get inspired and also look to the past to recognize how your story may be both holding you back and propelling you towards your vision.” - Sharon Lipovsky

“There has to be space for you to recognize when your intuition has gathered the correct data, but also honor and recognize how and when to act upon it.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Sharon Lipovsky

Driven by her personal mission to banish the world of limiting mindsets, Sharon believes that there is nothing stopping you. She leverages her champion listening superpower with clients to spark awareness, shift perspectives and energize the growth process. Her work is informed by her background as a sales and marketing executive, change agent and business owner. Sharon partners with clients ranging from tech-savvy startups and founder-led enterprises to globally-recognized brands and corporate powerhouses. What unites the leaders and teams she supports is that they are reinventing the way we do business. Point Road clients celebrate that focusing on human development is a necessary step to growing both our impact and our bottom lines. Together we really can do more than the sum of our individual parts. You can connect with Sharon every Wednesday on the Design Yourself podcast where she shares tips and inspiration for how to lead a well-designed life. As part of designing her own self, Sharon relocated in 2018 from her native Washington, DC to the Catskills of NY. You can read about her adventures in reimagining home in Dwell and the New York Times. When not stewarding the visions of her clients, you might find Sharon sowing seeds in the garden with her children, delighting in the creative cuisine of her husband or cold plunging with girlfriends.

Connect with Sharon Lipovsky

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn: Point Road Studios

Linked In: Sharon Lipovsky

Design Yourself Podcast: Apple Podcasts

Sharon's Home Features: NYT

Dwell

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You've Defined Your Brand...Now What? - LuAnn Nigara

 

881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business - LuAnn Nigara

Other Resources Mentioned:

5-minute Vision Meditation

 

Book Your Vision Reading - For the next 4 weeks, you can use code “luann” for additional $100 savings!

 

Oprah Clip

 

Early Adopters of Remote Work, They Moved Upstate Before Covid - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

]]> 4414 no 954: Brittany Farinas: Having Faith in Yourself is as Important as Having a Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/954-brittany-farinas-having-faith-in-yourself-is-as-important-as-having-a-process Today With Brittany Farinas: Today I am joined by Brittany Farinas, owner of House of One. House of One is a multifaceted Miami-based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. Brittany has taken leaps in her business right from the beginning, some leaps most designers are nervous to make. Working her tail off with two waitressing jobs and real estate, Brittany was able to invest in her business early on and achieve legitimacy and an increase in ROI ten-fold.  LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Farinas's Ah-Ha Moments “Being good at owning a business is just as important as being good at the designing,” - Brittany Farinas “We can all eventually reach success, but the differentiator is believing in ourselves and that we can do it as soon as possible,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Brittany Farinas  House of One is a multifaceted Miami based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. By prioritizing creativity and an exceptional client experience, CEO and Creative Director Brittany Farinas is known for guaranteeing that every client experiences The Art of Living With Style. With their promise to deliver a distinct style of seamless luxury living, HO1 creates fluid interiors through elaborate spatial planning and FF&E selection. Making it their mission to design spaces that tell a story and exceed the expectations of their clients through high quality 3D visualization, HO1 strives to create stunning, experiential properties while encouraging their clients to become creative collaborators. At House of One, no design is ever the same. Brittany and her team are able to showcase this through custom furniture design, which is what the firm is most known for. Having designed some of the most notable interiors in South Florida and with works featured in AD Pro, Domino, Vogue Living, Wall Street Journal and Haute Residence to name a few, House of One has carved and solidified their place as one of the fastest growing and most influential firms in the interior design sphere. Connect with Brittany Farinas Website Instagram Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching   506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership   AWDB #544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR   AWDB #741: Leia Ward: Getting Started with Luxury Staging   AWDB: #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design Other Resources Mentioned: RESACON Vegas   Watch Kae Whitaker's Amazing Shows Tue, 06 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Brittany Farinas: Having Faith in Yourself is as Important as Having a Process full 954 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brittany Farinas: Today I am joined by Brittany Farinas, owner of House of One. House of One is a multifaceted Miami-based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. Brittany has taken leaps in... Today With Brittany Farinas: Today I am joined by Brittany Farinas, owner of House of One. House of One is a multifaceted Miami-based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. Brittany has taken leaps in her business right from the beginning, some leaps most designers are nervous to make. Working her tail off with two waitressing jobs and real estate, Brittany was able to invest in her business early on and achieve legitimacy and an increase in ROI ten-fold.  LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Farinas's Ah-Ha Moments “Being good at owning a business is just as important as being good at the designing,” - Brittany Farinas “We can all eventually reach success, but the differentiator is believing in ourselves and that we can do it as soon as possible,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Brittany Farinas  House of One is a multifaceted Miami based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. By prioritizing creativity and an exceptional client experience, CEO and Creative Director Brittany Farinas is known for guaranteeing that every client experiences The Art of Living With Style. With their promise to deliver a distinct style of seamless luxury living, HO1 creates fluid interiors through elaborate spatial planning and FF&E selection. Making it their mission to design spaces that tell a story and exceed the expectations of their clients through high quality 3D visualization, HO1 strives to create stunning, experiential properties while encouraging their clients to become creative collaborators. At House of One, no design is ever the same. Brittany and her team are able to showcase this through custom furniture design, which is what the firm is most known for. Having designed some of the most notable interiors in South Florida and with works featured in AD Pro, Domino, Vogue Living, Wall Street Journal and Haute Residence to name a few, House of One has carved and solidified their place as one of the fastest growing and most influential firms in the interior design sphere. Connect with Brittany Farinas Website Instagram Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching   506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership   AWDB #544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR   AWDB #741: Leia Ward: Getting Started with Luxury Staging   AWDB: #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design Other Resources Mentioned: RESACON Vegas   Watch Kae Whitaker's Amazing Shows Today With Brittany Farinas:

Today I am joined by Brittany Farinas, owner of House of One. House of One is a multifaceted Miami-based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. Brittany has taken leaps in her business right from the beginning, some leaps most designers are nervous to make. Working her tail off with two waitressing jobs and real estate, Brittany was able to invest in her business early on and achieve legitimacy and an increase in ROI ten-fold. 

LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Farinas's Ah-Ha Moments

“Being good at owning a business is just as important as being good at the designing,” - Brittany Farinas

“We can all eventually reach success, but the differentiator is believing in ourselves and that we can do it as soon as possible,” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Brittany Farinas

 House of One is a multifaceted Miami based interior design firm, specializing in curated luxury residential and commercial projects. By prioritizing creativity and an exceptional client experience, CEO and Creative Director Brittany Farinas is known for guaranteeing that every client experiences The Art of Living With Style. With their promise to deliver a distinct style of seamless luxury living, HO1 creates fluid interiors through elaborate spatial planning and FF&E selection. Making it their mission to design spaces that tell a story and exceed the expectations of their clients through high quality 3D visualization, HO1 strives to create stunning, experiential properties while encouraging their clients to become creative collaborators. At House of One, no design is ever the same. Brittany and her team are able to showcase this through custom furniture design, which is what the firm is most known for. Having designed some of the most notable interiors in South Florida and with works featured in AD Pro, Domino, Vogue Living, Wall Street Journal and Haute Residence to name a few, House of One has carved and solidified their place as one of the fastest growing and most influential firms in the interior design sphere.

Connect with Brittany Farinas

Website

Instagram

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

 

506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership

 

AWDB #544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR

 

AWDB #741: Leia Ward: Getting Started with Luxury Staging

 

AWDB: #849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

Other Resources Mentioned:

RESACON Vegas

 

Watch Kae Whitaker's Amazing Shows

]]> 3805 no 953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/953-raj-banyopadhyay-connecting-with-your-audience-through-personal-branding-photography Today With Raj Banyopadhyay: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by trained sex and relationship coach turned personal brand photographer Raj Banyopadhyay, of Series A Photography. We are discussing what personal branding means to him, how similar his process is to yours as an interior designer, and how he helps his clients uncover and embody their stories with powerful photos that help them connect with their audience. LuAnn Nigara and Raj Banyopadhyay's Ah-Ha Moments “My goal as a photographer is, of course, to get beautiful pictures. But more importantly, is for you to feel safe in expressing yourself fully on camera…I love seeing the transformation that comes out in front of the camera and the transformation that they take out into the world of seeing themselves better, loving themselves better.” - Raj Bandyopadhyay “It's a difference between capturing a beautiful photograph of you, and actually capturing you. And it's a difference between creating a beautiful room that could be anywhere or creating a room that's for that specific client.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Raj Banyopadhyay  In 2016, Raj was a Data Scientist at a hot Silicon Valley startup; with a comfortable 6-figure salary, status that came from success in a sexy field, and only a mild sense of mid-life dissatisfaction. Then his partner, his then-wife of 8 years, came out as transgender. Seeing his partner find joy in his true self forced Raj to ask the question, “What do I need to change in my life to feel true to myself?” That journey led him to training as a sex and relationship coach, pursuing his creative passion, and eventually, finding a fulfilling life as an artist and photographer in NYC. Today, as a personal branding photographer, he helps coaches, speakers and entrepreneurs convey their full, multifaceted, vibrant stories on camera. He's passionate about helping people feel safe to express themselves fully as human beings and to build a deep, genuine, lasting connection with their audience. Connect with Raj Banyopadhyay Website Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #26: Kae Whitaker- Branding Your Business- Finally I Understand It!   AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand   AWDB #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography   AWDB #752: Power Talk Friday: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success   AWDB #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Fri, 02 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000 953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography full 953 LuAnn Nigara Today With Raj Banyopadhyay: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by trained sex and relationship coach turned personal brand photographer Raj Banyopadhyay, of Series A Photography. We are discussing what personal branding means to him, how... Today With Raj Banyopadhyay: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by trained sex and relationship coach turned personal brand photographer Raj Banyopadhyay, of Series A Photography. We are discussing what personal branding means to him, how similar his process is to yours as an interior designer, and how he helps his clients uncover and embody their stories with powerful photos that help them connect with their audience. LuAnn Nigara and Raj Banyopadhyay's Ah-Ha Moments “My goal as a photographer is, of course, to get beautiful pictures. But more importantly, is for you to feel safe in expressing yourself fully on camera…I love seeing the transformation that comes out in front of the camera and the transformation that they take out into the world of seeing themselves better, loving themselves better.” - Raj Bandyopadhyay “It's a difference between capturing a beautiful photograph of you, and actually capturing you. And it's a difference between creating a beautiful room that could be anywhere or creating a room that's for that specific client.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Raj Banyopadhyay  In 2016, Raj was a Data Scientist at a hot Silicon Valley startup; with a comfortable 6-figure salary, status that came from success in a sexy field, and only a mild sense of mid-life dissatisfaction. Then his partner, his then-wife of 8 years, came out as transgender. Seeing his partner find joy in his true self forced Raj to ask the question, “What do I need to change in my life to feel true to myself?” That journey led him to training as a sex and relationship coach, pursuing his creative passion, and eventually, finding a fulfilling life as an artist and photographer in NYC. Today, as a personal branding photographer, he helps coaches, speakers and entrepreneurs convey their full, multifaceted, vibrant stories on camera. He's passionate about helping people feel safe to express themselves fully as human beings and to build a deep, genuine, lasting connection with their audience. Connect with Raj Banyopadhyay Website Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #26: Kae Whitaker- Branding Your Business- Finally I Understand It!   AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand   AWDB #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography   AWDB #752: Power Talk Friday: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success   AWDB #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Today With Raj Banyopadhyay:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by trained sex and relationship coach turned personal brand photographer Raj Banyopadhyay, of Series A Photography. We are discussing what personal branding means to him, how similar his process is to yours as an interior designer, and how he helps his clients uncover and embody their stories with powerful photos that help them connect with their audience.

LuAnn Nigara and Raj Banyopadhyay's Ah-Ha Moments

“My goal as a photographer is, of course, to get beautiful pictures. But more importantly, is for you to feel safe in expressing yourself fully on camera…I love seeing the transformation that comes out in front of the camera and the transformation that they take out into the world of seeing themselves better, loving themselves better.” - Raj Bandyopadhyay

“It's a difference between capturing a beautiful photograph of you, and actually capturing you. And it's a difference between creating a beautiful room that could be anywhere or creating a room that's for that specific client.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Raj Banyopadhyay

 In 2016, Raj was a Data Scientist at a hot Silicon Valley startup; with a comfortable 6-figure salary, status that came from success in a sexy field, and only a mild sense of mid-life dissatisfaction. Then his partner, his then-wife of 8 years, came out as transgender. Seeing his partner find joy in his true self forced Raj to ask the question, “What do I need to change in my life to feel true to myself?” That journey led him to training as a sex and relationship coach, pursuing his creative passion, and eventually, finding a fulfilling life as an artist and photographer in NYC. Today, as a personal branding photographer, he helps coaches, speakers and entrepreneurs convey their full, multifaceted, vibrant stories on camera. He's passionate about helping people feel safe to express themselves fully as human beings and to build a deep, genuine, lasting connection with their audience.

Connect with Raj Banyopadhyay

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #26: Kae Whitaker- Branding Your Business- Finally I Understand It!

 

AWDB #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

 

AWDB #516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

 

AWDB #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

 

AWDB #752: Power Talk Friday: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success

 

AWDB #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

]]> 4820 no 952: Jennifer Ma: The Path isn’t Always Straight and That’s OK http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/952-jennifer-ma-the-path-isnt-always-straight-and-thats-ok Today With Jennifer Ma: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Jennifer Ma of Dwell & Oak Interior Design Studio. Before she became an interior designer, Jennifer was a competitive swimmer, a chef, and a nursing student. She also worked in luxury beauty marketing and owned a kickboxing franchise. Jennifer put her heart and soul into each venture, and took away valuable experiences that have helped her business thrive. She believes that with determination, you can pivot your career toward the lifestyle you've always envisioned. Listen now to hear her inspiring story. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Ma's Ah-Ha Moments  “If I really, really don’t feel it in my heart and in my gut, that it’s okay to quit something after you’ve tried and put everything into it.” – Jennifer Ma “What you put out there is what you're going to receive back.” – Jennifer Ma “The fact that you can pull a very tangible life lesson out of each is, I think, the only way we get through things like this. It's the only way we get up in the morning and are willing to face the next possibly difficult thing that we have no idea that’s coming at us.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Ma  After moving into a brand new build home in San Diego, Jennifer started an Instagram account to document her love for customizing and decorating her home. Jennifer's goal was simple: Create a space that was inspired, beautiful, & that her family loved to be in. As Jennifer's online readership grew, so did her requests for interior design projects. Soon, she was being asked to design spaces--and entire homes--by online fans & followers from across the country. With that, Dwell & Oak was born; a full-scale design company grounded in Jen's firm belief that a home must be both beautiful and comfortable. In the years prior to launching her design company, Jennifer had already built and owned a thriving kickboxing franchise business from the ground up after being 12 years in luxury beauty marketing in NYC. Her success came from her commitment to excellence and appreciation for the client experience. This same talent, attention to detail, and entrepreneurial "can do" attitude has all helped her interior design business grow. Today, Jennifer remains committed to creating beautiful spaces that celebrate family, foster togetherness & connection, and are designed for everyday living. Connect with Jennifer Ma Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #006: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed  AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate  AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why   AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 30 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Jennifer Ma: The Path isn’t Always Straight and That’s OK full 952 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jennifer Ma: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Jennifer Ma of Dwell & Oak Interior Design Studio. Before she became an interior designer, Jennifer was a competitive swimmer, a chef, and a nursing student. She also... Today With Jennifer Ma: Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Jennifer Ma of Dwell & Oak Interior Design Studio. Before she became an interior designer, Jennifer was a competitive swimmer, a chef, and a nursing student. She also worked in luxury beauty marketing and owned a kickboxing franchise. Jennifer put her heart and soul into each venture, and took away valuable experiences that have helped her business thrive. She believes that with determination, you can pivot your career toward the lifestyle you've always envisioned. Listen now to hear her inspiring story. LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Ma's Ah-Ha Moments  “If I really, really don’t feel it in my heart and in my gut, that it’s okay to quit something after you’ve tried and put everything into it.” – Jennifer Ma “What you put out there is what you're going to receive back.” – Jennifer Ma “The fact that you can pull a very tangible life lesson out of each is, I think, the only way we get through things like this. It's the only way we get up in the morning and are willing to face the next possibly difficult thing that we have no idea that’s coming at us.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jennifer Ma  After moving into a brand new build home in San Diego, Jennifer started an Instagram account to document her love for customizing and decorating her home. Jennifer's goal was simple: Create a space that was inspired, beautiful, & that her family loved to be in. As Jennifer's online readership grew, so did her requests for interior design projects. Soon, she was being asked to design spaces--and entire homes--by online fans & followers from across the country. With that, Dwell & Oak was born; a full-scale design company grounded in Jen's firm belief that a home must be both beautiful and comfortable. In the years prior to launching her design company, Jennifer had already built and owned a thriving kickboxing franchise business from the ground up after being 12 years in luxury beauty marketing in NYC. Her success came from her commitment to excellence and appreciation for the client experience. This same talent, attention to detail, and entrepreneurial "can do" attitude has all helped her interior design business grow. Today, Jennifer remains committed to creating beautiful spaces that celebrate family, foster togetherness & connection, and are designed for everyday living. Connect with Jennifer Ma Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #006: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed  AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate  AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why   AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business Today With Jennifer Ma:

Today, on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Jennifer Ma of Dwell & Oak Interior Design Studio. Before she became an interior designer, Jennifer was a competitive swimmer, a chef, and a nursing student. She also worked in luxury beauty marketing and owned a kickboxing franchise. Jennifer put her heart and soul into each venture, and took away valuable experiences that have helped her business thrive. She believes that with determination, you can pivot your career toward the lifestyle you've always envisioned. Listen now to hear her inspiring story.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Ma's Ah-Ha Moments

 “If I really, really don’t feel it in my heart and in my gut, that it’s okay to quit something after you’ve tried and put everything into it.” – Jennifer Ma “What you put out there is what you're going to receive back.” – Jennifer Ma

“The fact that you can pull a very tangible life lesson out of each is, I think, the only way we get through things like this. It's the only way we get up in the morning and are willing to face the next possibly difficult thing that we have no idea that’s coming at us.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Ma

 After moving into a brand new build home in San Diego, Jennifer started an Instagram account to document her love for customizing and decorating her home. Jennifer's goal was simple: Create a space that was inspired, beautiful, & that her family loved to be in.

As Jennifer's online readership grew, so did her requests for interior design projects. Soon, she was being asked to design spaces--and entire homes--by online fans & followers from across the country. With that, Dwell & Oak was born; a full-scale design company grounded in Jen's firm belief that a home must be both beautiful and comfortable.

In the years prior to launching her design company, Jennifer had already built and owned a thriving kickboxing franchise business from the ground up after being 12 years in luxury beauty marketing in NYC. Her success came from her commitment to excellence and appreciation for the client experience. This same talent, attention to detail, and entrepreneurial "can do" attitude has all helped her interior design business grow.

Today, Jennifer remains committed to creating beautiful spaces that celebrate family, foster togetherness & connection, and are designed for everyday living.

Connect with Jennifer Ma

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #006: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm AWDB #291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed 

AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate 

AWDB #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

 

AWDB #455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3894 no 951: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/951-power-talk-friday-duke-renders-more-interior-designers-share-the-value-of-using-duke-renders-for-your-rendering-projects Today With Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown: Today on A Well-Designed Business we are back with another Duke Renders-sponsored show. We are hearing from two more interior designers who absolutely love working with Duke Renders; Kelly O’Neil, founder of Kelly O’Neil Design and Camia Brown, founder of Camia Brown Interiors. As soon as Kelly and Camia started using Duke Renders in their projects, they never looked back. They now use them for all of their projects. They are sharing all of the benefits 3D renderings have for their businesses and why they recommend d Duke Renders to everyone. Pick It Apart   [3:54] Camia and Kelly share why they use renderings for all of their projects. [11:01] Camia explains how having a rendering facilitates the process. [16:56] Fernando shares how he has even used renderings for his own visuals. [25:10] Camia shares a specific instance where a client was not budging on a design preference and how the rendering convinced him it didn’t look right. [26:05] Kelly and Camia share the process of working with Duke Renders. [34:12] Last thoughts and benefits to using Duke Renders in your design projects. LuAnn Nigara, Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown's Ah-Ha Moments “Using Duke Renders for your design projects uplevels your business. It’s the next phase in technology,” - LuAnn Nigara “When you have these high-quality renders from Duke Renders, there is this instantaneous trust because the clients can see that you saw their vision and customized it to them.” - Kelly O’Neil “We listen to feedback from designers to make our process as structured as possible so they always know what to expect throughout their process,” Fernando Duque More About Fernando Duque   Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment. We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs. We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process. I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu. Fun Facts: 1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day! 2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years 3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.  Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #723: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering ProjectsOther Shows Mentioned: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour Duke Renders - Book Call Fri, 26 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects full 951 LuAnn Nigara Today With Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown: Today on A Well-Designed Business we are back with another Duke Renders-sponsored show. We are hearing from two more interior designers who absolutely love working with Duke Renders; Kelly... Today With Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown: Today on A Well-Designed Business we are back with another Duke Renders-sponsored show. We are hearing from two more interior designers who absolutely love working with Duke Renders; Kelly O’Neil, founder of Kelly O’Neil Design and Camia Brown, founder of Camia Brown Interiors. As soon as Kelly and Camia started using Duke Renders in their projects, they never looked back. They now use them for all of their projects. They are sharing all of the benefits 3D renderings have for their businesses and why they recommend d Duke Renders to everyone. Pick It Apart   [3:54] Camia and Kelly share why they use renderings for all of their projects. [11:01] Camia explains how having a rendering facilitates the process. [16:56] Fernando shares how he has even used renderings for his own visuals. [25:10] Camia shares a specific instance where a client was not budging on a design preference and how the rendering convinced him it didn’t look right. [26:05] Kelly and Camia share the process of working with Duke Renders. [34:12] Last thoughts and benefits to using Duke Renders in your design projects. LuAnn Nigara, Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown's Ah-Ha Moments “Using Duke Renders for your design projects uplevels your business. It’s the next phase in technology,” - LuAnn Nigara “When you have these high-quality renders from Duke Renders, there is this instantaneous trust because the clients can see that you saw their vision and customized it to them.” - Kelly O’Neil “We listen to feedback from designers to make our process as structured as possible so they always know what to expect throughout their process,” Fernando Duque More About Fernando Duque   Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment. We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs. We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process. I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu. Fun Facts: 1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day! 2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years 3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.  Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #723: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business AWDB #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering ProjectsOther Shows Mentioned: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour Duke Renders - Book Call Today With Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown:

Today on A Well-Designed Business we are back with another Duke Renders-sponsored show. We are hearing from two more interior designers who absolutely love working with Duke Renders; Kelly O’Neil, founder of Kelly O’Neil Design and Camia Brown, founder of Camia Brown Interiors. As soon as Kelly and Camia started using Duke Renders in their projects, they never looked back. They now use them for all of their projects. They are sharing all of the benefits 3D renderings have for their businesses and why they recommend d Duke Renders to everyone.

Pick It Apart

 

[3:54] Camia and Kelly share why they use renderings for all of their projects.

[11:01] Camia explains how having a rendering facilitates the process.

[16:56] Fernando shares how he has even used renderings for his own visuals.

[25:10] Camia shares a specific instance where a client was not budging on a design preference and how the rendering convinced him it didn’t look right.

[26:05] Kelly and Camia share the process of working with Duke Renders.

[34:12] Last thoughts and benefits to using Duke Renders in your design projects.

LuAnn Nigara, Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown's Ah-Ha Moments

“Using Duke Renders for your design projects uplevels your business. It’s the next phase in technology,” - LuAnn Nigara

“When you have these high-quality renders from Duke Renders, there is this instantaneous trust because the clients can see that you saw their vision and customized it to them.” - Kelly O’Neil

“We listen to feedback from designers to make our process as structured as possible so they always know what to expect throughout their process,” Fernando Duque

More About Fernando Duque

 

Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.

I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.

We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico.

We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.

We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.

We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.

I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.

Fun Facts:

1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!

2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years

3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife

Connect with Fernando Duque

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Houzz

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. 

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #723: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering ProjectsOther Shows Mentioned:

Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour

Duke Renders - Book Call

]]> 3018 no 950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/950-overheard-insights-on-hiring-exceptional-people Today With Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan: Today on A Well Designed Business, I am so happy to have our roundtable discussion with four amazing #smartladys. Leadership consultants Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan, and award-winning designers Traci Connell and Anastasia Harrison. Both Traci and Anastasia worked with Eileen and Jennifer to improve and solidify their hiring process and it resulted in clear and successful results. They are here to share their hiring experiences, how they worked together, and offer actionable tips that you do not want to miss. More About Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan Anastasia: She started her career working on large infrastructure projects in the NYC metro area, then moved to Europe to do design work for brands such as Donna Karen, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Prada. Once back in the US, her career focused on luxury residential and hospitality design, as Director of Sustainability in NYC for Gensler. Traci: Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting-edge technologies, and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Eileen: She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity. Jennifer: She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. She has several ac5ve interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October 2022 Connect with Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan Anastasia Harrison’s Website Traci Connell’s Website Eileen Hahn’s Website Jennifer Tokatyan’s Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success #554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss Tue, 23 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People full 950 LuAnn Nigara Today With Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan:  Today on A Well Designed Business, I am so happy to have our roundtable discussion with four amazing #smartladys. Leadership consultants Eileen Hahn and Jennifer... Today With Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan: Today on A Well Designed Business, I am so happy to have our roundtable discussion with four amazing #smartladys. Leadership consultants Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan, and award-winning designers Traci Connell and Anastasia Harrison. Both Traci and Anastasia worked with Eileen and Jennifer to improve and solidify their hiring process and it resulted in clear and successful results. They are here to share their hiring experiences, how they worked together, and offer actionable tips that you do not want to miss. More About Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan Anastasia: She started her career working on large infrastructure projects in the NYC metro area, then moved to Europe to do design work for brands such as Donna Karen, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Prada. Once back in the US, her career focused on luxury residential and hospitality design, as Director of Sustainability in NYC for Gensler. Traci: Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting-edge technologies, and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Eileen: She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity. Jennifer: She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. She has several ac5ve interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October 2022 Connect with Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan Anastasia Harrison’s Website Traci Connell’s Website Eileen Hahn’s Website Jennifer Tokatyan’s Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success #554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss Today With Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan:

Today on A Well Designed Business, I am so happy to have our roundtable discussion with four amazing #smartladys. Leadership consultants Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan, and award-winning designers Traci Connell and Anastasia Harrison. Both Traci and Anastasia worked with Eileen and Jennifer to improve and solidify their hiring process and it resulted in clear and successful results. They are here to share their hiring experiences, how they worked together, and offer actionable tips that you do not want to miss.

More About Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan

Anastasia:

She started her career working on large infrastructure projects in the NYC metro area, then moved to Europe to do design work for brands such as Donna Karen, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Prada. Once back in the US, her career focused on luxury residential and hospitality design, as Director of Sustainability in NYC for Gensler.

Traci:

Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting-edge technologies, and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes.

Eileen:

She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity.

Jennifer:

She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. She has several ac5ve interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October 2022

Connect with Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan

Anastasia Harrison’s Website

Traci Connell’s Website

Eileen Hahn’s Website

Jennifer Tokatyan’s Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success

#554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

#851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter

#909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

]]> 4366 no 949: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Lackey: Clarity on Your Next Level and on the Path to Get There http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/949-power-talk-friday-jessica-lackey-clarity-on-your-next-level-and-on-the-path-to-get-there Today With Jessica Lackey: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Jessica Lackey of Jessica Lackey Consulting. Her extensive experience in consulting and Fortune 500 operations leadership helps her guide businesses to grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, teams, and community. Listen in to learn what reaching the next level means to you and how to get there. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Lackey's Ah-Ha Moments “If you reach the next level where you have to rainmake to support that pipeline, are you designing anymore? If not, are you OK with that? People don’t expect the fact that their roles may completely shift,” - LuAnn Nigara. “When you think about scaling your business, you need to think about how far you want to remove yourself from the business. So, the first step is to remove yourself from the backend stuff that isn’t your zone of genius,” - Jessica Lackey. More About Jessica Lackey Jessica Lackey is a strategy and operations advisor who is on a mission to radically disrupt mainstream business culture in an effort to create sustainable businesses with a human-centric approach. With a background in corporate leadership, McKinsey & Company consulting, and a Harvard Business degree, Jessica knows a thing or two about hustle culture and what it feels like to judge success by the bottom line…at all costs. Now, she combines her deep experience in consulting, Fortune 500 operations leadership, and coaching to help businesses grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, team, and community. Connect with Jessica Lackey Website Instagram LinkedIn  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB #827: Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers AWDB #873: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA AWDB #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Lackey: Clarity on Your Next Level and on the Path to Get There full 949 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Lackey: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Jessica Lackey of Jessica Lackey Consulting. Her extensive experience in consulting and Fortune 500 operations leadership helps... Today With Jessica Lackey: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Jessica Lackey of Jessica Lackey Consulting. Her extensive experience in consulting and Fortune 500 operations leadership helps her guide businesses to grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, teams, and community. Listen in to learn what reaching the next level means to you and how to get there. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Lackey's Ah-Ha Moments “If you reach the next level where you have to rainmake to support that pipeline, are you designing anymore? If not, are you OK with that? People don’t expect the fact that their roles may completely shift,” - LuAnn Nigara. “When you think about scaling your business, you need to think about how far you want to remove yourself from the business. So, the first step is to remove yourself from the backend stuff that isn’t your zone of genius,” - Jessica Lackey. More About Jessica Lackey Jessica Lackey is a strategy and operations advisor who is on a mission to radically disrupt mainstream business culture in an effort to create sustainable businesses with a human-centric approach. With a background in corporate leadership, McKinsey & Company consulting, and a Harvard Business degree, Jessica knows a thing or two about hustle culture and what it feels like to judge success by the bottom line…at all costs. Now, she combines her deep experience in consulting, Fortune 500 operations leadership, and coaching to help businesses grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, team, and community. Connect with Jessica Lackey Website Instagram LinkedIn  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB #827: Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers AWDB #873: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA AWDB #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook Today With Jessica Lackey:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Jessica Lackey of Jessica Lackey Consulting. Her extensive experience in consulting and Fortune 500 operations leadership helps her guide businesses to grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, teams, and community. Listen in to learn what reaching the next level means to you and how to get there.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Lackey's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you reach the next level where you have to rainmake to support that pipeline, are you designing anymore? If not, are you OK with that? People don’t expect the fact that their roles may completely shift,” - LuAnn Nigara.

“When you think about scaling your business, you need to think about how far you want to remove yourself from the business. So, the first step is to remove yourself from the backend stuff that isn’t your zone of genius,” - Jessica Lackey.

More About Jessica Lackey

Jessica Lackey is a strategy and operations advisor who is on a mission to radically disrupt mainstream business culture in an effort to create sustainable businesses with a human-centric approach. With a background in corporate leadership, McKinsey & Company consulting, and a Harvard Business degree, Jessica knows a thing or two about hustle culture and what it feels like to judge success by the bottom line…at all costs. Now, she combines her deep experience in consulting, Fortune 500 operations leadership, and coaching to help businesses grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, team, and community.

Connect with Jessica Lackey

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn 

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

AWDB #827: Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers

AWDB #873: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA

AWDB #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

]]> 3183 no 948: The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/948-the-power-talk-friday-tour-an-unforgettable-day-of-insights-and-inspiration Today With LuAnn Nigara: Today on A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn announces the return of the Power Talk Friday Tour! She makes some other announcements regarding LuAnn Live, and mentiones some of the dates for the PTF Tour: Dallas on Apr 5, 2024, NJ on Jun 7, 2024, Las Vegas on Aug 2, 2024 and finally, High Point on Oct 25, 2024. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 16 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration full 948 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Today on A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn announces the return of the Power Talk Friday Tour! She makes some other announcements regarding LuAnn Live, and mentiones some of the dates for the PTF Tour: Dallas on Apr 5, 2024, NJ... Today With LuAnn Nigara: Today on A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn announces the return of the Power Talk Friday Tour! She makes some other announcements regarding LuAnn Live, and mentiones some of the dates for the PTF Tour: Dallas on Apr 5, 2024, NJ on Jun 7, 2024, Las Vegas on Aug 2, 2024 and finally, High Point on Oct 25, 2024. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn announces the return of the Power Talk Friday Tour! She makes some other announcements regarding LuAnn Live, and mentiones some of the dates for the PTF Tour: Dallas on Apr 5, 2024, NJ on Jun 7, 2024, Las Vegas on Aug 2, 2024 and finally, High Point on Oct 25, 2024.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 959 no 947: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Learn About the Profitable Niche of Vacation Rental Design at the 2024 VRD Summit http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/947-jessica-duce-jane-dagmi-and-ericka-saurit-learn-about-the-profitable-niche-of-vacation-rental-design-at-the-2024-vrd-summit Today With Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Ericka Saurit, Jessica Duce, and Jane Dagmi, the masterminds behind the Vacation Rental Design Summit, happening this spring at High Point Market. According to my guests today, Vacation Rental Design is much more than beautiful spaces—it’s a scroll-stopping, memory-making, profit-building business model. And they want to teach you all about it. We’re discussing what Vacation Rental Design is (and isn’t), what kind of designer it’s best suited for, along with the content and what to expect at this year’s summit, because the more educated and better prepared you are as a designer in this niche, the more value you’ll bring to vacation rental owners and property managers, who will want to use your services again and again. Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit's Ah-Ha Moments  “Vacation rental design is not staging, it's not residential design, it is unique…It has a lot of layers. But it also has, in my opinion, some of the greatest rewards for a designer for creativity.” – Jessica Duc “The more educated and the more prepared [vacation rental designers] are, the better of value they can sell, the more they can sell design as a sales tool [for the vacation rental owner].” – Ericka Saurit “Designers are real arbiters of taste. They curate lifestyles for their clients. They can curate vacations. Their expertise goes beyond picking the furniture…[to] create more income that way. They are really curating that person's entire experience. That's a big responsibility and one to really accept and embrace if you're up for it.” – Jane Dagmi More About Ericka Saurit Ericka began her career as an interior designer, working with ESI (now NBBJ) in New York and Ralph Appelbaum Associates in Beijing for numerous cultural and hospitality clients throughout Asia, the United States, and Europe, and transitioned to a career in marketing for home brands in 2012. Ericka is an inspiring and motivating public speaker—frequently invited to lead industry discussions on marketing, brand strategy, and storytelling at conferences in the US and abroad. A southerner at heart and traveler by trade, she maintains residence in both North Carolina and the south of France. Connect with Ericka Saurit Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Download your free brand audit Book a call with Erika What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #351: Power Talk Friday: Jane Dagmi: Editor in Chief of Designers Today AWDB #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design AWDB #437: High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip AWDB #606: Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business AWDB #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design AWDB #868: Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World AWDB #894: Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market Other Shows Mentioned: VRD Summit - HPXD - High Point x Design Fri, 12 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 947: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Learn About the Profitable Niche of Vacation Rental Design at the 2024 VRD Summit full 947 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Ericka Saurit, Jessica Duce, and Jane Dagmi, the masterminds behind the Vacation Rental Design Summit, happening this spring at High Point Market.... Today With Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Ericka Saurit, Jessica Duce, and Jane Dagmi, the masterminds behind the Vacation Rental Design Summit, happening this spring at High Point Market. According to my guests today, Vacation Rental Design is much more than beautiful spaces—it’s a scroll-stopping, memory-making, profit-building business model. And they want to teach you all about it. We’re discussing what Vacation Rental Design is (and isn’t), what kind of designer it’s best suited for, along with the content and what to expect at this year’s summit, because the more educated and better prepared you are as a designer in this niche, the more value you’ll bring to vacation rental owners and property managers, who will want to use your services again and again. Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit's Ah-Ha Moments  “Vacation rental design is not staging, it's not residential design, it is unique…It has a lot of layers. But it also has, in my opinion, some of the greatest rewards for a designer for creativity.” – Jessica Duc “The more educated and the more prepared [vacation rental designers] are, the better of value they can sell, the more they can sell design as a sales tool [for the vacation rental owner].” – Ericka Saurit “Designers are real arbiters of taste. They curate lifestyles for their clients. They can curate vacations. Their expertise goes beyond picking the furniture…[to] create more income that way. They are really curating that person's entire experience. That's a big responsibility and one to really accept and embrace if you're up for it.” – Jane Dagmi More About Ericka Saurit Ericka began her career as an interior designer, working with ESI (now NBBJ) in New York and Ralph Appelbaum Associates in Beijing for numerous cultural and hospitality clients throughout Asia, the United States, and Europe, and transitioned to a career in marketing for home brands in 2012. Ericka is an inspiring and motivating public speaker—frequently invited to lead industry discussions on marketing, brand strategy, and storytelling at conferences in the US and abroad. A southerner at heart and traveler by trade, she maintains residence in both North Carolina and the south of France. Connect with Ericka Saurit Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Download your free brand audit Book a call with Erika What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #351: Power Talk Friday: Jane Dagmi: Editor in Chief of Designers Today AWDB #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design AWDB #437: High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip AWDB #606: Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business AWDB #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design AWDB #868: Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World AWDB #894: Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market Other Shows Mentioned: VRD Summit - HPXD - High Point x Design Today With Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Ericka Saurit, Jessica Duce, and Jane Dagmi, the masterminds behind the Vacation Rental Design Summit, happening this spring at High Point Market. According to my guests today, Vacation Rental Design is much more than beautiful spaces—it’s a scroll-stopping, memory-making, profit-building business model. And they want to teach you all about it. We’re discussing what Vacation Rental Design is (and isn’t), what kind of designer it’s best suited for, along with the content and what to expect at this year’s summit, because the more educated and better prepared you are as a designer in this niche, the more value you’ll bring to vacation rental owners and property managers, who will want to use your services again and again.

Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit's Ah-Ha Moments

 “Vacation rental design is not staging, it's not residential design, it is unique…It has a lot of layers. But it also has, in my opinion, some of the greatest rewards for a designer for creativity.” – Jessica Duc

“The more educated and the more prepared [vacation rental designers] are, the better of value they can sell, the more they can sell design as a sales tool [for the vacation rental owner].” – Ericka Saurit

“Designers are real arbiters of taste. They curate lifestyles for their clients. They can curate vacations. Their expertise goes beyond picking the furniture…[to] create more income that way. They are really curating that person's entire experience. That's a big responsibility and one to really accept and embrace if you're up for it.” – Jane Dagmi

More About Ericka Saurit

Ericka began her career as an interior designer, working with ESI (now NBBJ) in New York and Ralph Appelbaum Associates in Beijing for numerous cultural and hospitality clients throughout Asia, the United States, and Europe, and transitioned to a career in marketing for home brands in 2012. Ericka is an inspiring and motivating public speaker—frequently invited to lead industry discussions on marketing, brand strategy, and storytelling at conferences in the US and abroad. A southerner at heart and traveler by trade, she maintains residence in both North Carolina and the south of France.

Connect with Ericka Saurit

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Download your free brand audit

Book a call with Erika

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #351: Power Talk Friday: Jane Dagmi: Editor in Chief of Designers Today AWDB #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design AWDB #437: High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip AWDB #606: Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business AWDB #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design AWDB #868: Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World AWDB #894: Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market Other Shows Mentioned: VRD Summit - HPXD - High Point x Design

]]> 3263 no 946: Morgan Molitor: Running Your Interior Design Business When You Have Other Business Ventures http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/946-morgan-molitor-running-your-interior-design-business-when-you-have-other-business-ventures Today With Morgan Molitor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Morgan Molitor, was introduced to me by Brad Leavitt, a friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert. Morgan and Brad, along with Nick Shiffer, founded the Contractor Coalition Summit, a conference for the construction industry. Morgan is also the co-founder of construction2style, a full-service design-build firm, alongside her husband Jamie. And, as if that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Morgan also runs a media company for designers and construction firms, and a separate nonprofit, along with creating online education workshops. Oh, and did I mention she has three young kids? If that sounds essentially impossible to you, you aren’t alone. Today, Morgan breaks down how she manages to keep everything running smoothly and all the lessons she has learned along the way. Morgan Molitor's Ah-Ha Moment “You have to take one thing at a time and be present in the moment. Okay, I'm in business mode. I'm in mom mode. And you know, being a business owner and entrepreneur, clients can rock you, family can rock you. All these things that we deal with every day in our personal lives can rock you.” -Morgan More About Morgan Molitor Morgan is the other half and co-founder of construction2style, alongside her husband Jamie. Wife, mom of 3, content creator, marketing strategist, stylist and designer. For over 10 years, they've been tearing houses apart and creating new dream spaces not only for their clients but for themselves. Starting c2s from the ground up as a DIY blog and have since evolved into a full- service design + build and small media company. They document it all from the construction side, to how to build a website, developing multiple streams of revenue, to how to build your brand while ensuring profitability, marketing courses, in person workshops, and more. Morgan oversees all content creation, manages the brand partnerships, is the writing guru, and overall creative director. She also heads up their online education courses and in- person marketing conferences. You can always find an infectious smile on Morgan’s face and hear her contagious laugh. She’s a forward thinker, risk taker, and nothing makes her happier than when she gets to play a small part in making people's dreams and lives thrive. Connect with Morgan Molitor Website Instagram Facebook X Houzz Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process   #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book   #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders   #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process   #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Morgan Molitor: Running Your Interior Design Business When You Have Other Business Ventures full 946 LuAnn Nigara Today With Morgan Molitor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Morgan Molitor, was introduced to me by Brad Leavitt, a friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert. Morgan and Brad, along... Today With Morgan Molitor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Morgan Molitor, was introduced to me by Brad Leavitt, a friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert. Morgan and Brad, along with Nick Shiffer, founded the Contractor Coalition Summit, a conference for the construction industry. Morgan is also the co-founder of construction2style, a full-service design-build firm, alongside her husband Jamie. And, as if that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Morgan also runs a media company for designers and construction firms, and a separate nonprofit, along with creating online education workshops. Oh, and did I mention she has three young kids? If that sounds essentially impossible to you, you aren’t alone. Today, Morgan breaks down how she manages to keep everything running smoothly and all the lessons she has learned along the way. Morgan Molitor's Ah-Ha Moment “You have to take one thing at a time and be present in the moment. Okay, I'm in business mode. I'm in mom mode. And you know, being a business owner and entrepreneur, clients can rock you, family can rock you. All these things that we deal with every day in our personal lives can rock you.” -Morgan More About Morgan Molitor Morgan is the other half and co-founder of construction2style, alongside her husband Jamie. Wife, mom of 3, content creator, marketing strategist, stylist and designer. For over 10 years, they've been tearing houses apart and creating new dream spaces not only for their clients but for themselves. Starting c2s from the ground up as a DIY blog and have since evolved into a full- service design + build and small media company. They document it all from the construction side, to how to build a website, developing multiple streams of revenue, to how to build your brand while ensuring profitability, marketing courses, in person workshops, and more. Morgan oversees all content creation, manages the brand partnerships, is the writing guru, and overall creative director. She also heads up their online education courses and in- person marketing conferences. You can always find an infectious smile on Morgan’s face and hear her contagious laugh. She’s a forward thinker, risk taker, and nothing makes her happier than when she gets to play a small part in making people's dreams and lives thrive. Connect with Morgan Molitor Website Instagram Facebook X Houzz Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn Email What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process   #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book   #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders   #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process   #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Today With Morgan Molitor:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Morgan Molitor, was introduced to me by Brad Leavitt, a friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert. Morgan and Brad, along with Nick Shiffer, founded the Contractor Coalition Summit, a conference for the construction industry. Morgan is also the co-founder of construction2style, a full-service design-build firm, alongside her husband Jamie. And, as if that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Morgan also runs a media company for designers and construction firms, and a separate nonprofit, along with creating online education workshops. Oh, and did I mention she has three young kids? If that sounds essentially impossible to you, you aren’t alone. Today, Morgan breaks down how she manages to keep everything running smoothly and all the lessons she has learned along the way.

Morgan Molitor's Ah-Ha Moment

“You have to take one thing at a time and be present in the moment. Okay, I'm in business mode. I'm in mom mode. And you know, being a business owner and entrepreneur, clients can rock you, family can rock you. All these things that we deal with every day in our personal lives can rock you.” -Morgan

More About Morgan Molitor

Morgan is the other half and co-founder of construction2style, alongside her husband Jamie. Wife, mom of 3, content creator, marketing strategist, stylist and designer.

For over 10 years, they've been tearing houses apart and creating new dream spaces not only for their clients but for themselves. Starting c2s from the ground up as a DIY blog and have since evolved into a full- service design + build and small media company. They document it all from the construction side, to how to build a website, developing multiple streams of revenue, to how to build your brand while ensuring profitability, marketing courses, in person workshops, and more.

Morgan oversees all content creation, manages the brand partnerships, is the writing guru, and overall creative director. She also heads up their online education courses and in- person marketing conferences. You can always find an infectious smile on Morgan’s face and hear her contagious laugh. She’s a forward thinker, risk taker, and nothing makes her happier than when she gets to play a small part in making people's dreams and lives thrive.

Connect with Morgan Molitor

Website

Instagram

Facebook

X

Houzz

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

Email

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

 

#560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

 

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

 

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

 

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

]]> 3391 no 945: Power Talk Friday: Courtney Pisarik: Why Consider Hiring a PR Representative as an Interior Designer? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/945-power-talk-friday-courtney-pisarik-why-consider-hiring-a-pr-representative-as-an-interior-designer Today With Courtney Pisarik: On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one, then Courtney’s name might ring a bell, as she co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Her ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. Today she’ll be joining me to talk about what are those things you need to consider if you’re looking to hire a PR rep, starting with the most important question, the “why” of it. Courtney Pisarik's Ah-Ha Moments “You should not worry about the competition, you should appreciate the expertise.” - Courtney Pisarik More About Courtney Pisarik Courtney Pisarik co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Today, she’s taken her red carpet experience to the world of design, where she continuously helps launch some of the industry’s biggest stars including Bobby Berk, costar of Netflix’s Queer Eye, and Breegan Jane, HGTV host. She approaches each client with a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and intelligence that results in award-winning and influential campaigns. Her expertise lies within a diverse group of services including media relations, brand development, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. With a focus on interior designers, architects, and brands in the home and lifestyle space, Ink PR Group’s reach is expansive and ever-evolving. Connect with Courtney Pisarik Website Facebook X Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 369 Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots AWDB 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers AWDB 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography AWDB 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer AWDB 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger AWDB 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer AWDB 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer AWDB 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo AWDB 138: Power Talk Friday – Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot Fri, 05 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Courtney Pisarik: Why Consider Hiring a PR Representative as an Interior Designer? full 945 LuAnn Nigara Today With Courtney Pisarik: If you've ever contemplated hiring a PR representative, this episode is a must-listen! On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one,... Today With Courtney Pisarik: On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one, then Courtney’s name might ring a bell, as she co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Her ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. Today she’ll be joining me to talk about what are those things you need to consider if you’re looking to hire a PR rep, starting with the most important question, the “why” of it. Courtney Pisarik's Ah-Ha Moments “You should not worry about the competition, you should appreciate the expertise.” - Courtney Pisarik More About Courtney Pisarik Courtney Pisarik co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Today, she’s taken her red carpet experience to the world of design, where she continuously helps launch some of the industry’s biggest stars including Bobby Berk, costar of Netflix’s Queer Eye, and Breegan Jane, HGTV host. She approaches each client with a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and intelligence that results in award-winning and influential campaigns. Her expertise lies within a diverse group of services including media relations, brand development, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. With a focus on interior designers, architects, and brands in the home and lifestyle space, Ink PR Group’s reach is expansive and ever-evolving. Connect with Courtney Pisarik Website Facebook X Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 369 Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots AWDB 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers AWDB 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography AWDB 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer AWDB 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger AWDB 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer AWDB 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer AWDB 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo AWDB 138: Power Talk Friday – Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot Today With Courtney Pisarik:

On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one, then Courtney’s name might ring a bell, as she co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Her ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. Today she’ll be joining me to talk about what are those things you need to consider if you’re looking to hire a PR rep, starting with the most important question, the “why” of it.

Courtney Pisarik's Ah-Ha Moments

“You should not worry about the competition, you should appreciate the expertise.” - Courtney Pisarik

More About Courtney Pisarik

Courtney Pisarik co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Today, she’s taken her red carpet experience to the world of design, where she continuously helps launch some of the industry’s biggest stars including Bobby Berk, costar of Netflix’s Queer Eye, and Breegan Jane, HGTV host. She approaches each client with a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and intelligence that results in award-winning and influential campaigns. Her expertise lies within a diverse group of services including media relations, brand development, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. With a focus on interior designers, architects, and brands in the home and lifestyle space, Ink PR Group’s reach is expansive and ever-evolving.

Connect with Courtney Pisarik

Website

Facebook

X

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 369 Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots

AWDB 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers

AWDB 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

AWDB 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer

AWDB 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger

AWDB 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer

AWDB 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer

AWDB 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo

AWDB 138: Power Talk Friday – Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot

]]> 4444 no 944: Susan Lizan-Immerman: Lessons from a Seasoned Interior Design Veteran http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/944-susan-lizan-immerman-lessons-from-a-seasoned-interior-design-veteran Today With Susan Lizan-Immerman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Susan Lizan-Immerman, founder and CEO of MDesign Home Decor, 25+ year veteran businesswoman, and all-around #smartlady. Susan started her business journey in the garment industry when it was very much a man’s world—but she didn’t let that stop her. Through valuable relationships and connections, as well as a real CEO mindset, that we should all aspire to, Susan grew multiple thriving businesses and created a longstanding career. I am so excited to share with you my guest today, Susan Lizan-Immerman. Susan is a true seasoned veteran businesswoman. Today, she’s sharing how she did it, and how you can cultivate that CEO mindset and create a successful interior design business. LuAnn Nigara and Susan Lizan-Immerman's Ah-Ha Moments “It took telling myself, how do I feel comfortable being uncomfortable? As soon as I start feeling uncomfortable, I have to submerge myself in that in order to feel comfortable.” -Susan “You have to be prepared to get lucky. You're constantly preparing, you're doing all of the right things. You're making all of the best decisions you can each moment that you can, and then all of a sudden, something happens.” -LuAnn More About Susan Lizan-Immerman  Conceiving, developing and executing the strategies and initiatives that drive revenue, growth, competitive market positioning, profits and shareholder value is what I do best. Throughout my career in senior executive and entrepreneurial roles with leaders in the apparel and home industry, I've earned a track record of success in achieving exceptional rather than expected results. I'm recognized as one who possesses the experience, capabilities and judgment for taking a business to its next level of success or resolving the deficiencies that impede its ability to grow. My management style can be described as "hands on" and decisive yet flexible. I value and reward creative thinking, initiative, teamwork, commitment and performance. Connect with Susan Lizan-Immerman Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  YouTube TikTok LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #831 Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience Tue, 02 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Susan Lizan-Immerman: Lessons from a Seasoned Interior Design Veteran full 944 LuAnn Nigara Today With Susan Lizan-Immerman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Susan Lizan-Immerman, founder and CEO of MDesign Home Decor, 25+ year veteran businesswoman, and all-around #smartlady.  Susan started her business... Today With Susan Lizan-Immerman: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Susan Lizan-Immerman, founder and CEO of MDesign Home Decor, 25+ year veteran businesswoman, and all-around #smartlady. Susan started her business journey in the garment industry when it was very much a man’s world—but she didn’t let that stop her. Through valuable relationships and connections, as well as a real CEO mindset, that we should all aspire to, Susan grew multiple thriving businesses and created a longstanding career. I am so excited to share with you my guest today, Susan Lizan-Immerman. Susan is a true seasoned veteran businesswoman. Today, she’s sharing how she did it, and how you can cultivate that CEO mindset and create a successful interior design business. LuAnn Nigara and Susan Lizan-Immerman's Ah-Ha Moments “It took telling myself, how do I feel comfortable being uncomfortable? As soon as I start feeling uncomfortable, I have to submerge myself in that in order to feel comfortable.” -Susan “You have to be prepared to get lucky. You're constantly preparing, you're doing all of the right things. You're making all of the best decisions you can each moment that you can, and then all of a sudden, something happens.” -LuAnn More About Susan Lizan-Immerman  Conceiving, developing and executing the strategies and initiatives that drive revenue, growth, competitive market positioning, profits and shareholder value is what I do best. Throughout my career in senior executive and entrepreneurial roles with leaders in the apparel and home industry, I've earned a track record of success in achieving exceptional rather than expected results. I'm recognized as one who possesses the experience, capabilities and judgment for taking a business to its next level of success or resolving the deficiencies that impede its ability to grow. My management style can be described as "hands on" and decisive yet flexible. I value and reward creative thinking, initiative, teamwork, commitment and performance. Connect with Susan Lizan-Immerman Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  YouTube TikTok LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #831 Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience Today With Susan Lizan-Immerman:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Susan Lizan-Immerman, founder and CEO of MDesign Home Decor, 25+ year veteran businesswoman, and all-around #smartlady. Susan started her business journey in the garment industry when it was very much a man’s world—but she didn’t let that stop her. Through valuable relationships and connections, as well as a real CEO mindset, that we should all aspire to, Susan grew multiple thriving businesses and created a longstanding career. I am so excited to share with you my guest today, Susan Lizan-Immerman. Susan is a true seasoned veteran businesswoman. Today, she’s sharing how she did it, and how you can cultivate that CEO mindset and create a successful interior design business.

LuAnn Nigara and Susan Lizan-Immerman's Ah-Ha Moments

“It took telling myself, how do I feel comfortable being uncomfortable? As soon as I start feeling uncomfortable, I have to submerge myself in that in order to feel comfortable.” -Susan

“You have to be prepared to get lucky. You're constantly preparing, you're doing all of the right things. You're making all of the best decisions you can each moment that you can, and then all of a sudden, something happens.” -LuAnn

More About Susan Lizan-Immerman

 Conceiving, developing and executing the strategies and initiatives that drive revenue, growth, competitive market positioning, profits and shareholder value is what I do best. Throughout my career in senior executive and entrepreneurial roles with leaders in the apparel and home industry, I've earned a track record of success in achieving exceptional rather than expected results. I'm recognized as one who possesses the experience, capabilities and judgment for taking a business to its next level of success or resolving the deficiencies that impede its ability to grow. My management style can be described as "hands on" and decisive yet flexible. I value and reward creative thinking, initiative, teamwork, commitment and performance.

Connect with Susan Lizan-Immerman

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

YouTube

TikTok

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #831 Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience

]]> 3658 no 943: Power Talk Friday: The Top Ten Listened to Episodes of 2023! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/943-power-talk-friday-the-top-ten-listened-to-episodes-of-2023 Today With LuAnn Nigara: Join me on the last show of 2023 to do a quick recap of the best episodes we had this year! From inspiring events like LuAnn Live 2023 to the launch of our docuseries, "The Making of A Well-Designed Business," it has been a journey of growth and connection. 2023 brought valuable lessons, including the importance of self-care. Stay tuned as we recap the top 10 most listened episodes of the year! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life 842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity 847: Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success 844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success 841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers 848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client 849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design 846: Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating TIE 179. Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Navigating Conflicting Messages About Money 181: Sandra Funk: A Million Dollar Mindset for Setting Boundaries and Standing in Your Space 177: Katie McDonald: Gaining a Competitive Edge Through Self-Care 180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness 196: Rachael Bozsik-Johanson: The Luxury Shift: Align Your Desires and Elevate Your Brand to the Top 3% of Your Niche 182: Amber de la Garza: The Power of Prioritization: Reimagining Productivity and Embracing Balance 183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You 178: Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment WTFP  161: Lynn Eastergard: Qualify Your Clients By Charging Consultation and Retainer Fees 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You 134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter 122: Jill Ballew: Her System for Chasing Post Installation Issues 137: Richard Bernath: Networking for a More Profitable Window Treatment Business 169: Lori Ann Jones: Broke to Stoked! Building a Profitable Window Treatment Business, the Lean Way 164: Julie Wood: Let Passion and Enthusiasm Be Your Guide Other Resources Mentioned: The “3 Fives” Routine: 15- Minutes A Day To Uplevel Your Whole Life by Joshua Smith   Interior Design Standard   Profit Insiders Academy with Nancy Ganzekaufer   The Designer Within Book by John McClain Fri, 29 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: The Top Ten Listened to Episodes of 2023! full 943 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Join me on the last show of 2023 to do a quick recap of the best episodes we had this year! From inspiring events like LuAnn Live 2023 to the launch of our docuseries, "The Making of A Well-Designed Business," it has been a... Today With LuAnn Nigara: Join me on the last show of 2023 to do a quick recap of the best episodes we had this year! From inspiring events like LuAnn Live 2023 to the launch of our docuseries, "The Making of A Well-Designed Business," it has been a journey of growth and connection. 2023 brought valuable lessons, including the importance of self-care. Stay tuned as we recap the top 10 most listened episodes of the year! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life 842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity 847: Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success 844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success 841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers 848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client 849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design 846: Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating TIE 179. Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Navigating Conflicting Messages About Money 181: Sandra Funk: A Million Dollar Mindset for Setting Boundaries and Standing in Your Space 177: Katie McDonald: Gaining a Competitive Edge Through Self-Care 180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness 196: Rachael Bozsik-Johanson: The Luxury Shift: Align Your Desires and Elevate Your Brand to the Top 3% of Your Niche 182: Amber de la Garza: The Power of Prioritization: Reimagining Productivity and Embracing Balance 183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You 178: Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment WTFP  161: Lynn Eastergard: Qualify Your Clients By Charging Consultation and Retainer Fees 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You 134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter 122: Jill Ballew: Her System for Chasing Post Installation Issues 137: Richard Bernath: Networking for a More Profitable Window Treatment Business 169: Lori Ann Jones: Broke to Stoked! Building a Profitable Window Treatment Business, the Lean Way 164: Julie Wood: Let Passion and Enthusiasm Be Your Guide Other Resources Mentioned: The “3 Fives” Routine: 15- Minutes A Day To Uplevel Your Whole Life by Joshua Smith   Interior Design Standard   Profit Insiders Academy with Nancy Ganzekaufer   The Designer Within Book by John McClain Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Join me on the last show of 2023 to do a quick recap of the best episodes we had this year! From inspiring events like LuAnn Live 2023 to the launch of our docuseries, "The Making of A Well-Designed Business," it has been a journey of growth and connection. 2023 brought valuable lessons, including the importance of self-care. Stay tuned as we recap the top 10 most listened episodes of the year!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB

840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

847: Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success

844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success

841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers

848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client

849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

846: Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking

845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

TIE

179. Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Navigating Conflicting Messages About Money

181: Sandra Funk: A Million Dollar Mindset for Setting Boundaries and Standing in Your Space

177: Katie McDonald: Gaining a Competitive Edge Through Self-Care

180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness

196: Rachael Bozsik-Johanson: The Luxury Shift: Align Your Desires and Elevate Your Brand to the Top 3% of Your Niche

182: Amber de la Garza: The Power of Prioritization: Reimagining Productivity and Embracing Balance

183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You

178: Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment

WTFP 

161: Lynn Eastergard: Qualify Your Clients By Charging Consultation and Retainer Fees

167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You

134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter

122: Jill Ballew: Her System for Chasing Post Installation Issues

137: Richard Bernath: Networking for a More Profitable Window Treatment Business

169: Lori Ann Jones: Broke to Stoked! Building a Profitable Window Treatment Business, the Lean Way

164: Julie Wood: Let Passion and Enthusiasm Be Your Guide

Other Resources Mentioned:

The “3 Fives” Routine: 15- Minutes A Day To Uplevel Your Whole Life by Joshua Smith

 

Interior Design Standard

 

Profit Insiders Academy with Nancy Ganzekaufer

 

The Designer Within Book by John McClain

]]> 1229 no 942: Delyse Berry: The Execution of the Design Project is as Important as the Design Result http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/942-delyse-berry-the-execution-of-the-design-project-is-as-important-as-the-design-result Today With Delyse Berry: Today, I am joined by Delyse Berry, owner of Upstate Down, an interior design studio and real estate brokerage, with also a home decor store. Delyse uses a process built around a holistic approach which entails a clear formula for clients to understand what they do, their vision , and the best execution process. This framework delivers an incredible experience for clients, a streamline process for them, and has grown their business faster and more effortlessly. Listen in to get the details! LuAnn Nigara and Delyse Berry's Ah-Ha Moments  “The execution process is as important as the end result.” - Delyse Berry  “I think the industry needs to look at the way in which it is executed. If a client isn’t happy about something, we need to look at how we contribute and deliver the news to them.” - Delyse Berry “Laying out as much up front as you can during your initial conversation with a client is very important.” - Delyse Berry “A beautiful outcome can’t come from a crappy process.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Delyse Berry CEO & Principal Broker. Rhinebeck resident by way of New Jersey and Brooklyn. Interior Designer and Principal Broker with 10+ years experience in high end Real Estate in the Hudson Valley. Holiday enthusiast, treasure collector, and proud mama. Is secretly re-designing every room she enters. Connect with Delyse Berry Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?   AWDB #930: April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project   AWDB #936: Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business Tue, 26 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Delyse Berry: The Execution of the Design Project is as Important as the Design Result full 942 LuAnn Nigara Today With Delyse Berry: Today, I am joined by Delyse Berry, owner of Upstate Down, an interior design studio and real estate brokerage, with also a home decor store. Delyse uses a process built around a holistic approach which entails a clear formula... Today With Delyse Berry: Today, I am joined by Delyse Berry, owner of Upstate Down, an interior design studio and real estate brokerage, with also a home decor store. Delyse uses a process built around a holistic approach which entails a clear formula for clients to understand what they do, their vision , and the best execution process. This framework delivers an incredible experience for clients, a streamline process for them, and has grown their business faster and more effortlessly. Listen in to get the details! LuAnn Nigara and Delyse Berry's Ah-Ha Moments  “The execution process is as important as the end result.” - Delyse Berry  “I think the industry needs to look at the way in which it is executed. If a client isn’t happy about something, we need to look at how we contribute and deliver the news to them.” - Delyse Berry “Laying out as much up front as you can during your initial conversation with a client is very important.” - Delyse Berry “A beautiful outcome can’t come from a crappy process.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Delyse Berry CEO & Principal Broker. Rhinebeck resident by way of New Jersey and Brooklyn. Interior Designer and Principal Broker with 10+ years experience in high end Real Estate in the Hudson Valley. Holiday enthusiast, treasure collector, and proud mama. Is secretly re-designing every room she enters. Connect with Delyse Berry Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?   AWDB #930: April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project   AWDB #936: Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business Today With Delyse Berry:

Today, I am joined by Delyse Berry, owner of Upstate Down, an interior design studio and real estate brokerage, with also a home decor store. Delyse uses a process built around a holistic approach which entails a clear formula for clients to understand what they do, their vision , and the best execution process. This framework delivers an incredible experience for clients, a streamline process for them, and has grown their business faster and more effortlessly. Listen in to get the details!

LuAnn Nigara and Delyse Berry's Ah-Ha Moments

 “The execution process is as important as the end result.” - Delyse Berry 

“I think the industry needs to look at the way in which it is executed. If a client isn’t happy about something, we need to look at how we contribute and deliver the news to them.” - Delyse Berry

“Laying out as much up front as you can during your initial conversation with a client is very important.” - Delyse Berry

“A beautiful outcome can’t come from a crappy process.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Delyse Berry

CEO & Principal Broker. Rhinebeck resident by way of New Jersey and Brooklyn. Interior Designer and Principal Broker with 10+ years experience in high end Real Estate in the Hudson Valley. Holiday enthusiast, treasure collector, and proud mama. Is secretly re-designing every room she enters.

Connect with Delyse Berry

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

 

AWDB #930: April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project

 

AWDB #936: Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business

]]> 3108 no 941: Power Talk Friday: Erin Moore: A Personal Approach to Sales in the Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/941-power-talk-friday-erin-moore-a-personal-approach-to-sales-in-the-design-industry Today With Erin Moore: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Erin Moore. After more than a decade of experience as a sales leader in the often male-dominated tech, Erin developed a female-focused approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, she passionately teaches women how to sell in an authentic and personal way through her business, A Sales Conversation. Erin is here with actionable steps on how we can open our minds, expand our skill sets, and practice the art of effective selling by navigating through the three modes of selling: transactional, neutral, and emotive. LuAnn Nigara and Erin Moore's Ah-Ha Moments  “Don't lose that person that's compassionate and passionate and wants to help and so please, but just expand and then open your mind that there are skill sets that you can learn and one of them is sales. So you can still be you, but you actually have skills.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to let every woman know your whole self is also clear, direct, firm sets boundaries, says no.” – Erin Moore “The difference between somebody who's skilled and somebody who isn't skilled in relationship to sales is you know how to pivot in and out of those three things of transaction of neutral, and emotive.” – Erin Moore More About Erin Moore Erin Moore has been a sales leader in the tech industry for over a decade. She has acted as a powerful force for the companies she has worked for such as Marquam and Centerspan, bringing a strategic mindset and technical skillset to directing their sales teams. While working in this male-dominated field, she began to develop a female-focused sales mindset approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, Erin is passionate about teaching women how to sell in an authentic and personal way. Company: A Sales Conversation. Connect with Erin Moore Website LinkedIn Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals  AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business  AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth Fri, 22 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Erin Moore: A Personal Approach to Sales in the Design Industry full 941 LuAnn Nigara Today With Erin Moore: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Erin Moore. After more than a decade of experience as a sales leader in the often male-dominated tech, Erin developed a female-focused approach that she wasn't finding in... Today With Erin Moore: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Erin Moore. After more than a decade of experience as a sales leader in the often male-dominated tech, Erin developed a female-focused approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, she passionately teaches women how to sell in an authentic and personal way through her business, A Sales Conversation. Erin is here with actionable steps on how we can open our minds, expand our skill sets, and practice the art of effective selling by navigating through the three modes of selling: transactional, neutral, and emotive. LuAnn Nigara and Erin Moore's Ah-Ha Moments  “Don't lose that person that's compassionate and passionate and wants to help and so please, but just expand and then open your mind that there are skill sets that you can learn and one of them is sales. So you can still be you, but you actually have skills.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to let every woman know your whole self is also clear, direct, firm sets boundaries, says no.” – Erin Moore “The difference between somebody who's skilled and somebody who isn't skilled in relationship to sales is you know how to pivot in and out of those three things of transaction of neutral, and emotive.” – Erin Moore More About Erin Moore Erin Moore has been a sales leader in the tech industry for over a decade. She has acted as a powerful force for the companies she has worked for such as Marquam and Centerspan, bringing a strategic mindset and technical skillset to directing their sales teams. While working in this male-dominated field, she began to develop a female-focused sales mindset approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, Erin is passionate about teaching women how to sell in an authentic and personal way. Company: A Sales Conversation. Connect with Erin Moore Website LinkedIn Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals  AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business  AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth Today With Erin Moore:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Erin Moore. After more than a decade of experience as a sales leader in the often male-dominated tech, Erin developed a female-focused approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, she passionately teaches women how to sell in an authentic and personal way through her business, A Sales Conversation. Erin is here with actionable steps on how we can open our minds, expand our skill sets, and practice the art of effective selling by navigating through the three modes of selling: transactional, neutral, and emotive.

LuAnn Nigara and Erin Moore's Ah-Ha Moments

 “Don't lose that person that's compassionate and passionate and wants to help and so please, but just expand and then open your mind that there are skill sets that you can learn and one of them is sales. So you can still be you, but you actually have skills.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I want to let every woman know your whole self is also clear, direct, firm sets boundaries, says no.” – Erin Moore “The difference between somebody who's skilled and somebody who isn't skilled in relationship to sales is you know how to pivot in and out of those three things of transaction of neutral, and emotive.” – Erin Moore

More About Erin Moore

Erin Moore has been a sales leader in the tech industry for over a decade. She has acted as a powerful force for the companies she has worked for such as Marquam and Centerspan, bringing a strategic mindset and technical skillset to directing their sales teams. While working in this male-dominated field, she began to develop a female-focused sales mindset approach that she wasn't finding in traditional sales books. Now, Erin is passionate about teaching women how to sell in an authentic and personal way. Company: A Sales Conversation.

Connect with Erin Moore

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals 

AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business 

AWDB #913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth

]]> 4779 no 940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/940-christine-vroom-an-honest-conversation-about-mental-health-and-the-interior-design-industry Today With Christine Vroom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors in Los Angeles, California. Christine spaces focus on enhancing mental health, along with physical and spiritual well-being, and that’s by design. Through her own mental health journey, Christine has learned how to better take care of herself, surrounded herself with a supportive team, and translated her own difficult times into compassion and understanding toward her clients. Just as our systems and processes play a role in our business, so does our mental and physical health. Christine has put a lot of time, thought, and effort into finding the best ways to care for herself in order to show up better as a business owner. But it’s a journey. Today, she is sharing her story and some of the wisdom she has learned along the way. LuAnn Nigara and Christine Vroom's Ah-Ha Moments  “We do have to have that level of perfectionism [in the interior design industry]. But the question is, how do we take care of ourselves?” – Christine Vroom “When you're evolved, and you do know yourself well enough to know that you have anxiety or ‘fill in the blank’ then the tactic now is to actively protect your own psyche through that roller coaster ride.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Christine Vroom Christine Vroom Interiors is a full service interior and exterior design firm in Los Angeles, California, founded by senior designer Christine Vroom. Bringing together her love of timeless design with a fashion-forward attention to detail, Christine has made an impression on homeowners, developers, architects, and business owners alike. Guided by the philosophy of 'beauty meets function,' Christine creates liveable luxury through inviting, well designed spaces that directly enhance mental health, physical and spiritual well-being. Connect with Christine Vroom Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   AWDB #899: Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness Tue, 19 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry full 940 LuAnn Nigara Today With Christine Vroom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors in Los Angeles, California. Christine spaces focus on enhancing mental health, along with physical and spiritual well-being, and... Today With Christine Vroom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors in Los Angeles, California. Christine spaces focus on enhancing mental health, along with physical and spiritual well-being, and that’s by design. Through her own mental health journey, Christine has learned how to better take care of herself, surrounded herself with a supportive team, and translated her own difficult times into compassion and understanding toward her clients. Just as our systems and processes play a role in our business, so does our mental and physical health. Christine has put a lot of time, thought, and effort into finding the best ways to care for herself in order to show up better as a business owner. But it’s a journey. Today, she is sharing her story and some of the wisdom she has learned along the way. LuAnn Nigara and Christine Vroom's Ah-Ha Moments  “We do have to have that level of perfectionism [in the interior design industry]. But the question is, how do we take care of ourselves?” – Christine Vroom “When you're evolved, and you do know yourself well enough to know that you have anxiety or ‘fill in the blank’ then the tactic now is to actively protect your own psyche through that roller coaster ride.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Christine Vroom Christine Vroom Interiors is a full service interior and exterior design firm in Los Angeles, California, founded by senior designer Christine Vroom. Bringing together her love of timeless design with a fashion-forward attention to detail, Christine has made an impression on homeowners, developers, architects, and business owners alike. Guided by the philosophy of 'beauty meets function,' Christine creates liveable luxury through inviting, well designed spaces that directly enhance mental health, physical and spiritual well-being. Connect with Christine Vroom Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business   AWDB #899: Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness Today With Christine Vroom:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors in Los Angeles, California. Christine spaces focus on enhancing mental health, along with physical and spiritual well-being, and that’s by design. Through her own mental health journey, Christine has learned how to better take care of herself, surrounded herself with a supportive team, and translated her own difficult times into compassion and understanding toward her clients. Just as our systems and processes play a role in our business, so does our mental and physical health. Christine has put a lot of time, thought, and effort into finding the best ways to care for herself in order to show up better as a business owner. But it’s a journey. Today, she is sharing her story and some of the wisdom she has learned along the way.

LuAnn Nigara and Christine Vroom's Ah-Ha Moments

 “We do have to have that level of perfectionism [in the interior design industry]. But the question is, how do we take care of ourselves?” – Christine Vroom

“When you're evolved, and you do know yourself well enough to know that you have anxiety or ‘fill in the blank’ then the tactic now is to actively protect your own psyche through that roller coaster ride.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Christine Vroom

Christine Vroom Interiors is a full service interior and exterior design firm in Los Angeles, California, founded by senior designer Christine Vroom. Bringing together her love of timeless design with a fashion-forward attention to detail, Christine has made an impression on homeowners, developers, architects, and business owners alike. Guided by the philosophy of 'beauty meets function,' Christine creates liveable luxury through inviting, well designed spaces that directly enhance mental health, physical and spiritual well-being.

Connect with Christine Vroom

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

 

AWDB #899: Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity

TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness

]]> 3505 no 939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/939-power-talk-friday-amy-flurry-from-creating-media-opportunities-to-creating-a-product-line-aloka-home Today With Amy Flurry: Join us on this episode as we welcome Amy Flurry back to the show. Amy operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development. In today’s episode she’ll be telling us all about Aloka Homes, a company that re energizes vintage quilts, made of layers of saris that were hand-stitched in India 60-80 years ago. Prepare to be inspired by the artistry and story behind these remarkable pieces!  More About Amy Flurry Amy Flurry operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development. Amy has two decades of editorial experience, producing features and writing for top print and online publications. In 2011 Amy authored Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz,) and is a nationally recognized speaker on the subject of DIY PR. Recipe for Press (Designer Edition) is her newest book with the tools interior designers need to take advantage of the press opportunities available to creative professionals. The book took shape after two years as creative director of the first-of-its kind project management app for interior design professionals. Amy is co-founder of Paper-Cut-Project, a company that conceives highly crafted installations for fashion houses including Hermes, Kate Spade, Valentino, Christies and the Victoria & Albert Museum. She is also principal in aloka, a home accessories company with an emphasis on limited-supply vintage pillows and throws thoughtfully styled for today’s living. Connect with Amy Flurry Aloka Home Website Get the books! Recipe For Press’ Instagram Aloka Home’s Instagram Post Press Kit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 323 Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships   AWDB 108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm   AWDB 21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary   AWDB 47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count   AWDB 100 Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB 757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative Fri, 15 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home full 939 LuAnn Nigara Today With Amy Flurry: Join us on this episode as we welcome Amy Flurry back to the show. Amy operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home... Today With Amy Flurry: Join us on this episode as we welcome Amy Flurry back to the show. Amy operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development. In today’s episode she’ll be telling us all about Aloka Homes, a company that re energizes vintage quilts, made of layers of saris that were hand-stitched in India 60-80 years ago. Prepare to be inspired by the artistry and story behind these remarkable pieces!  More About Amy Flurry Amy Flurry operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development. Amy has two decades of editorial experience, producing features and writing for top print and online publications. In 2011 Amy authored Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz,) and is a nationally recognized speaker on the subject of DIY PR. Recipe for Press (Designer Edition) is her newest book with the tools interior designers need to take advantage of the press opportunities available to creative professionals. The book took shape after two years as creative director of the first-of-its kind project management app for interior design professionals. Amy is co-founder of Paper-Cut-Project, a company that conceives highly crafted installations for fashion houses including Hermes, Kate Spade, Valentino, Christies and the Victoria & Albert Museum. She is also principal in aloka, a home accessories company with an emphasis on limited-supply vintage pillows and throws thoughtfully styled for today’s living. Connect with Amy Flurry Aloka Home Website Get the books! Recipe For Press’ Instagram Aloka Home’s Instagram Post Press Kit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 323 Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships   AWDB 108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm   AWDB 21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary   AWDB 47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count   AWDB 100 Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!   AWDB 757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative Today With Amy Flurry:

Join us on this episode as we welcome Amy Flurry back to the show. Amy operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development. In today’s episode she’ll be telling us all about Aloka Homes, a company that re energizes vintage quilts, made of layers of saris that were hand-stitched in India 60-80 years ago. Prepare to be inspired by the artistry and story behind these remarkable pieces! 

More About Amy Flurry

Amy Flurry operates a boutique communications and brand development firm in Athens, Georgia. Along with her team and advisor, they partner with companies in the home furnishings industry to develop and implement focused communication plans, expand marketing strategies to connect to the interior design trade and apply trend direction to product development.

Amy has two decades of editorial experience, producing features and writing for top print and online publications. In 2011 Amy authored Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz,) and is a nationally recognized speaker on the subject of DIY PR. Recipe for Press (Designer Edition) is her newest book with the tools interior designers need to take advantage of the press opportunities available to creative professionals. The book took shape after two years as creative director of the first-of-its kind project management app for interior design professionals.

Amy is co-founder of Paper-Cut-Project, a company that conceives highly crafted installations for fashion houses including Hermes, Kate Spade, Valentino, Christies and the Victoria & Albert Museum. She is also principal in aloka, a home accessories company with an emphasis on limited-supply vintage pillows and throws thoughtfully styled for today’s living.

Connect with Amy Flurry

Aloka Home

Website

Get the books!

Recipe For Press’ Instagram

Aloka Home’s Instagram

Post Press Kit

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 323 Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

 

AWDB 108 Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm

 

AWDB 21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary

 

AWDB 47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count

 

AWDB 100 Scott Kravet – Celebrating our 100th Episode!

 

AWDB 757 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative

]]> 4204 no 938: Bessie Seeley: Growing a Thriving Interior Design Firm From the Kitchen Table http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/938-bessie-seeley-growing-a-thriving-interior-design-firm-from-the-kitchen-table Today With Bessie Seeley: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers start their businesses on the side, from home, or wherever we can squeeze in our work. And as they grow, most of them pivot to a studio as soon as possible. After all, that’s how you connect with clients and get taken seriously…right? But what if I told you that where you work from doesn’t matter nearly as much as you think it does. What if I told you that you could run a thriving business right from your kitchen table? I’ve seen several business owners do just that over the years, and my guest today, Bessie Seeley, founder of Kardinia Interior Design, is the same way. Bessie began her career at home, but even as she grew, even as she thrived, even as she hired, she remained working from her kitchen table for the first four years in her business. And as she grew her business, she did so very deliberately. She knew that she wanted to open a studio eventually. But she was strategic about the decisions she made on that path and what she prioritized first. Today, she’s sharing her insights into how she built her business with clarity and strategy. LuAnn Nigara and Bessie Seeley's Ah-Ha Moments “There are so many capable designers out there, but it's not just about creating beautiful functional designs. That's a huge part of it. And that's why clients come to us—our general aesthetic that people are drawn to. But for me, it's really about that other thing, which is that I want every client to feel listened to and cared for.” -Bessie “That is the huge lesson of what you're talking about and how you have six women that sit around you, and everybody is just in concert together. Because you have identified what is the most important thing for you in the building of your team. And you don't deviate from it.” -LuAnn More About Bessie Seeley Bessie Seeley is the founder and Principal Designer at Kardinia Interior Design, a full service boutique interior design firm based in Winter Park, FL. Kardinia Interior Design's design style can be described as timeless, curated, and bespoke, and our aesthetic seeks to balance beauty with functionality. Our collective interest and passion for creating beautiful spaces, our streamlined design process, and the white glove service and experience we offer to each and every one of our clients makes Kardinia Interior Design the coveted and creative boutique design studio it has grown to be. Bessie launched this business alongside a corporate finance career in 2018, and today, Kardinia Interior Design is a team of 6 and designs homes nationwide. Bessie lives in Orlando with her husband Jason and son Harrison. Connect with Bessie Seeley Website Website Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed   #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Tue, 12 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Bessie Seeley: Growing a Thriving Interior Design Firm From the Kitchen Table full 938 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bessie Seeley: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers start their businesses on the side, from home, or wherever we can squeeze in our work. And as they grow, most of them pivot to a studio as soon as possible. After all,... Today With Bessie Seeley: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers start their businesses on the side, from home, or wherever we can squeeze in our work. And as they grow, most of them pivot to a studio as soon as possible. After all, that’s how you connect with clients and get taken seriously…right? But what if I told you that where you work from doesn’t matter nearly as much as you think it does. What if I told you that you could run a thriving business right from your kitchen table? I’ve seen several business owners do just that over the years, and my guest today, Bessie Seeley, founder of Kardinia Interior Design, is the same way. Bessie began her career at home, but even as she grew, even as she thrived, even as she hired, she remained working from her kitchen table for the first four years in her business. And as she grew her business, she did so very deliberately. She knew that she wanted to open a studio eventually. But she was strategic about the decisions she made on that path and what she prioritized first. Today, she’s sharing her insights into how she built her business with clarity and strategy. LuAnn Nigara and Bessie Seeley's Ah-Ha Moments “There are so many capable designers out there, but it's not just about creating beautiful functional designs. That's a huge part of it. And that's why clients come to us—our general aesthetic that people are drawn to. But for me, it's really about that other thing, which is that I want every client to feel listened to and cared for.” -Bessie “That is the huge lesson of what you're talking about and how you have six women that sit around you, and everybody is just in concert together. Because you have identified what is the most important thing for you in the building of your team. And you don't deviate from it.” -LuAnn More About Bessie Seeley Bessie Seeley is the founder and Principal Designer at Kardinia Interior Design, a full service boutique interior design firm based in Winter Park, FL. Kardinia Interior Design's design style can be described as timeless, curated, and bespoke, and our aesthetic seeks to balance beauty with functionality. Our collective interest and passion for creating beautiful spaces, our streamlined design process, and the white glove service and experience we offer to each and every one of our clients makes Kardinia Interior Design the coveted and creative boutique design studio it has grown to be. Bessie launched this business alongside a corporate finance career in 2018, and today, Kardinia Interior Design is a team of 6 and designs homes nationwide. Bessie lives in Orlando with her husband Jason and son Harrison. Connect with Bessie Seeley Website Website Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed   #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design Today With Bessie Seeley:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers start their businesses on the side, from home, or wherever we can squeeze in our work. And as they grow, most of them pivot to a studio as soon as possible. After all, that’s how you connect with clients and get taken seriously…right? But what if I told you that where you work from doesn’t matter nearly as much as you think it does. What if I told you that you could run a thriving business right from your kitchen table? I’ve seen several business owners do just that over the years, and my guest today, Bessie Seeley, founder of Kardinia Interior Design, is the same way. Bessie began her career at home, but even as she grew, even as she thrived, even as she hired, she remained working from her kitchen table for the first four years in her business. And as she grew her business, she did so very deliberately. She knew that she wanted to open a studio eventually. But she was strategic about the decisions she made on that path and what she prioritized first. Today, she’s sharing her insights into how she built her business with clarity and strategy.

LuAnn Nigara and Bessie Seeley's Ah-Ha Moments

“There are so many capable designers out there, but it's not just about creating beautiful functional designs. That's a huge part of it. And that's why clients come to us—our general aesthetic that people are drawn to. But for me, it's really about that other thing, which is that I want every client to feel listened to and cared for.” -Bessie

“That is the huge lesson of what you're talking about and how you have six women that sit around you, and everybody is just in concert together. Because you have identified what is the most important thing for you in the building of your team. And you don't deviate from it.” -LuAnn

More About Bessie Seeley

Bessie Seeley is the founder and Principal Designer at Kardinia Interior Design, a full service boutique interior design firm based in Winter Park, FL. Kardinia Interior Design's design style can be described as timeless, curated, and bespoke, and our aesthetic seeks to balance beauty with functionality. Our collective interest and passion for creating beautiful spaces, our streamlined design process, and the white glove service and experience we offer to each and every one of our clients makes Kardinia Interior Design the coveted and creative boutique design studio it has grown to be. Bessie launched this business alongside a corporate finance career in 2018, and today, Kardinia Interior Design is a team of 6 and designs homes nationwide. Bessie lives in Orlando with her husband Jason and son Harrison.

Connect with Bessie Seeley

Website

Website

Instagram 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

 

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

]]> 3555 no 937: Power Talk Friday: Sonja Capasso: Is it Failure or is it the Path to Success? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/937-power-talk-friday-sonja-capasso-is-it-failure-or-is-it-the-path-to-success Today With Sonja Capasso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re welcoming Sonja Capasso of Capasso & Co to the show. I met Sonja a few months ago and I couldn’t wait to finally sit down with her and learn more about her journey. More About Sonja Capasso I worked for a local design firm from 2015 - 2017, and after graduating, I immediately opened my own design business and started working part time as a rendering and drafting professional. It soon became obvious to me that this is my true passion and calling, so I changed my specialty from an interior designer to a drafting and rendering artist. Over the course of my design career, I also flipped and remodeled multiple houses, designed commercial interiors, and gained great on the job and first hand knowledge and experience, which has helped me create better contract documents. During my years in school, I also obtained a Florida Realtor License and a Broker’s license (which I let pass since we moved out of state), and I also became accredited with LEED AP ID+C since I have a passion for all things organic, natural, and sustainable. After we moved from Florida to CT, I participated in a Designer of the year contest on HGTV, where I made it through the first cut. While I didn’t make it further, this was a huge accomplishment for me, and you can now find my interior design business listed on HGTV.com. While in school, I also submitted my student designs to our local South Florida ASID chapter, where I won the first prize two years in a row. Since I switched my specialty to drafting and renderings, I have worked with over 100 interior designers, most of which are repeat clients. I thoroughly enjoy my work and I am so happy to be able to have independence, be my own boss, and run my business from home. Connect with Sonja Capasso Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 918 Lorna Gross: Unlock Your Potential: Reimagine and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over   AWDB 784 Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path—From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design   AWDB 807 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business   AWDB 485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult   AWDB 325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website   AWDB 237 Claire Jefford- How To Get More Clients With Video Content Other Resources Mentioned: Badass Habits by Jen Sincero Fri, 08 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sonja Capasso: Is it Failure or is it the Path to Success? full 937 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sonja Capasso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re welcoming Sonja Capasso of Capasso & Co to the show. I met Sonja a few months ago and I couldn’t wait to finally sit down with her and learn more about her journey. ... Today With Sonja Capasso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re welcoming Sonja Capasso of Capasso & Co to the show. I met Sonja a few months ago and I couldn’t wait to finally sit down with her and learn more about her journey. More About Sonja Capasso I worked for a local design firm from 2015 - 2017, and after graduating, I immediately opened my own design business and started working part time as a rendering and drafting professional. It soon became obvious to me that this is my true passion and calling, so I changed my specialty from an interior designer to a drafting and rendering artist. Over the course of my design career, I also flipped and remodeled multiple houses, designed commercial interiors, and gained great on the job and first hand knowledge and experience, which has helped me create better contract documents. During my years in school, I also obtained a Florida Realtor License and a Broker’s license (which I let pass since we moved out of state), and I also became accredited with LEED AP ID+C since I have a passion for all things organic, natural, and sustainable. After we moved from Florida to CT, I participated in a Designer of the year contest on HGTV, where I made it through the first cut. While I didn’t make it further, this was a huge accomplishment for me, and you can now find my interior design business listed on HGTV.com. While in school, I also submitted my student designs to our local South Florida ASID chapter, where I won the first prize two years in a row. Since I switched my specialty to drafting and renderings, I have worked with over 100 interior designers, most of which are repeat clients. I thoroughly enjoy my work and I am so happy to be able to have independence, be my own boss, and run my business from home. Connect with Sonja Capasso Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 918 Lorna Gross: Unlock Your Potential: Reimagine and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over   AWDB 784 Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path—From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design   AWDB 807 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business   AWDB 485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult   AWDB 325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website   AWDB 237 Claire Jefford- How To Get More Clients With Video Content Other Resources Mentioned: Badass Habits by Jen Sincero Today With Sonja Capasso:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re welcoming Sonja Capasso of Capasso & Co to the show. I met Sonja a few months ago and I couldn’t wait to finally sit down with her and learn more about her journey.

More About Sonja Capasso

I worked for a local design firm from 2015 - 2017, and after graduating, I immediately opened my own design business and started working part time as a rendering and drafting professional. It soon became obvious to me that this is my true passion and calling, so I changed my specialty from an interior designer to a drafting and rendering artist.

Over the course of my design career, I also flipped and remodeled multiple houses, designed commercial interiors, and gained great on the job and first hand knowledge and experience, which has helped me create better contract documents.

During my years in school, I also obtained a Florida Realtor License and a Broker’s license (which I let pass since we moved out of state), and I also became accredited with LEED AP ID+C since I have a passion for all things organic, natural, and sustainable.

After we moved from Florida to CT, I participated in a Designer of the year contest on HGTV, where I made it through the first cut. While I didn’t make it further, this was a huge accomplishment for me, and you can now find my interior design business listed on HGTV.com. While in school, I also submitted my student designs to our local South Florida ASID chapter, where I won the first prize two years in a row.

Since I switched my specialty to drafting and renderings, I have worked with over 100 interior designers, most of which are repeat clients. I thoroughly enjoy my work and I am so happy to be able to have independence, be my own boss, and run my business from home.

Connect with Sonja Capasso

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 918 Lorna Gross: Unlock Your Potential: Reimagine and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over

 

AWDB 784 Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path—From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design

 

AWDB 807 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business

 

AWDB 485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult

 

AWDB 325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website

 

AWDB 237 Claire Jefford- How To Get More Clients With Video Content

Other Resources Mentioned:

Badass Habits by Jen Sincero

]]> 3251 no 936: Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/936-heather-vitti-pruett-resilience-and-relationships-keys-to-success-in-her-interior-design-business Today With Heather Vitti Pruett: My guest today is a great example of taking control and choosing her own path. Heather Vitti Pruett, owner of Vitti Interiors is here to share her successes of using connections to help her business, being recognized for heart-centered projects, and her experience taking a client to small claims court. No matter what is going on in life, we always have the option to choose a different path. Heather is an active member of the American Society of Interior Design (ASID). And we are also getting into all of the value of joining a professional organization. LuAnn Nigara and Heather Vitti Pruett's Ah-Ha Moments “When you treat your interior design as a business instead of a hobby, that is when it will be a business.” - Heather Vitti Pruett “We all have the option to choose a different path.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Heather Vitti Pruett A passion for Interior Design was derived from a love of designing and hand-crafting clothing at an early age. Heather developed a talent for working with texture, color, and textiles that translated into a style and unique eye for beautifying interior spaces. After moving cross-country from the East Coast, Heather advanced her passion by attending the Design Institute of San Diego, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design. Since earning her degree, Heather has worked on a myriad of projects ranging from high-end residential, commercial business, retail, senior living, and several types of military workspaces. In addition, she has been raising her spunky and exuberant daughter and plays drums in an all-female rock band. An ever-ambitious working mom, she volunteers for city/beach cleanups and will assist troop leaders for events in her daughter's Girl Scout Troop. In the summer of 2022, she volunteered her time and skills to redesign her daughter's school library. See project details in the "Projects" tab and see the "Press" tab to read an Alumni Spotlight article on the library, published by her college, Design Institute of San Diego. Heather is also in the interview process of becoming a mentor with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America. Connect with Heather Vitti Pruett Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development   AWDB #121: Charrisse Johnston- The National Chair of ASID & Principal / Interior Design Practice Leader at Steinberg   AWDB #742: Power Talk Friday: Renee Gurganus: Why You Should Join the WCAA   AWDB #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business full 936 LuAnn Nigara Today With Heather Vitti Pruett: My guest today is a great example of taking control and choosing her own path. Heather Vitti Pruett, owner of Vitti Interiors is here to share her successes of using connections to help her business, being recognized... Today With Heather Vitti Pruett: My guest today is a great example of taking control and choosing her own path. Heather Vitti Pruett, owner of Vitti Interiors is here to share her successes of using connections to help her business, being recognized for heart-centered projects, and her experience taking a client to small claims court. No matter what is going on in life, we always have the option to choose a different path. Heather is an active member of the American Society of Interior Design (ASID). And we are also getting into all of the value of joining a professional organization. LuAnn Nigara and Heather Vitti Pruett's Ah-Ha Moments “When you treat your interior design as a business instead of a hobby, that is when it will be a business.” - Heather Vitti Pruett “We all have the option to choose a different path.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Heather Vitti Pruett A passion for Interior Design was derived from a love of designing and hand-crafting clothing at an early age. Heather developed a talent for working with texture, color, and textiles that translated into a style and unique eye for beautifying interior spaces. After moving cross-country from the East Coast, Heather advanced her passion by attending the Design Institute of San Diego, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design. Since earning her degree, Heather has worked on a myriad of projects ranging from high-end residential, commercial business, retail, senior living, and several types of military workspaces. In addition, she has been raising her spunky and exuberant daughter and plays drums in an all-female rock band. An ever-ambitious working mom, she volunteers for city/beach cleanups and will assist troop leaders for events in her daughter's Girl Scout Troop. In the summer of 2022, she volunteered her time and skills to redesign her daughter's school library. See project details in the "Projects" tab and see the "Press" tab to read an Alumni Spotlight article on the library, published by her college, Design Institute of San Diego. Heather is also in the interview process of becoming a mentor with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America. Connect with Heather Vitti Pruett Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development   AWDB #121: Charrisse Johnston- The National Chair of ASID & Principal / Interior Design Practice Leader at Steinberg   AWDB #742: Power Talk Friday: Renee Gurganus: Why You Should Join the WCAA   AWDB #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter Today With Heather Vitti Pruett:

My guest today is a great example of taking control and choosing her own path. Heather Vitti Pruett, owner of Vitti Interiors is here to share her successes of using connections to help her business, being recognized for heart-centered projects, and her experience taking a client to small claims court. No matter what is going on in life, we always have the option to choose a different path.

Heather is an active member of the American Society of Interior Design (ASID). And we are also getting into all of the value of joining a professional organization.

LuAnn Nigara and Heather Vitti Pruett's Ah-Ha Moments

“When you treat your interior design as a business instead of a hobby, that is when it will be a business.” - Heather Vitti Pruett

“We all have the option to choose a different path.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Heather Vitti Pruett

A passion for Interior Design was derived from a love of designing and hand-crafting clothing at an early age. Heather developed a talent for working with texture, color, and textiles that translated into a style and unique eye for beautifying interior spaces.

After moving cross-country from the East Coast, Heather advanced her passion by attending the Design Institute of San Diego, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design.

Since earning her degree, Heather has worked on a myriad of projects ranging from high-end residential, commercial business, retail, senior living, and several types of military workspaces. In addition, she has been raising her spunky and exuberant daughter and plays drums in an all-female rock band.

An ever-ambitious working mom, she volunteers for city/beach cleanups and will assist troop leaders for events in her daughter's Girl Scout Troop. In the summer of 2022, she volunteered her time and skills to redesign her daughter's school library. See project details in the "Projects" tab and see the "Press" tab to read an Alumni Spotlight article on the library, published by her college, Design Institute of San Diego.

Heather is also in the interview process of becoming a mentor with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America.

Connect with Heather Vitti Pruett

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

 

AWDB #121: Charrisse Johnston- The National Chair of ASID & Principal / Interior Design Practice Leader at Steinberg

 

AWDB #742: Power Talk Friday: Renee Gurganus: Why You Should Join the WCAA

 

AWDB #851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter

]]> 3937 no 935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/935-power-talk-friday-nancy-ganzekaufer-profit-insiders-academy-marketing-lessons-from-taylor-swifts-playbook Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Profit Insiders Academy Group Coaching Program which kicks off in January 2024. Nancy joins us once again to discuss how designers can approach marketing the way Taylor Swift does. Let’s face it fan or not, she is a marketing genius. This #smartlady continues to upgrade the Profit Insiders Academy with new additions including The Key- the Designer’s Ultimate Pricing Tool and NancyGPT which gives you NEXT LEVEL search capabilities. Listen in to learn how to apply to The Profit Insiders Academy and have a chance to win an additional one-on-one with Lesley. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “This year’s LuAnn Live was focused on health and wealth. This is hugely important to me. Marketing smartly is an important part of that, so you’re not running yourself ragged.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “Share authentically and learn to apply stories. People can relate to and follow along with stories.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer Share stories where you have learned a significant lesson from a mistake, that will prevent your client from making the same one.” - LuAnn Nigara “When you showcase your fun, you won’t believe how many people will relate to it.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer More About Nancy Ganzekaufer Nancy Ganzekaufer is a highly sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior designers on marketing & sales strategies and systems, teaching them how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority. In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in my book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a keynote sponsor at LuAnn Live, a frequent guest on this podcast, and one of my past Power Talk Friday experts. Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter and was an Executive IDS Board Member and the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York. Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Check out the Profit Insiders Academy Hop on my calendar for a Business Strategy Session! Maximize your profitability and never be underpaid again Protect yourself, your business, AND your client Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy. Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook full 935 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Profit Insiders Academy Group Coaching Program which kicks off in January 2024. Nancy joins us once again to discuss how designers can approach marketing... Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Profit Insiders Academy Group Coaching Program which kicks off in January 2024. Nancy joins us once again to discuss how designers can approach marketing the way Taylor Swift does. Let’s face it fan or not, she is a marketing genius. This #smartlady continues to upgrade the Profit Insiders Academy with new additions including The Key- the Designer’s Ultimate Pricing Tool and NancyGPT which gives you NEXT LEVEL search capabilities. Listen in to learn how to apply to The Profit Insiders Academy and have a chance to win an additional one-on-one with Lesley. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “This year’s LuAnn Live was focused on health and wealth. This is hugely important to me. Marketing smartly is an important part of that, so you’re not running yourself ragged.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “Share authentically and learn to apply stories. People can relate to and follow along with stories.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer Share stories where you have learned a significant lesson from a mistake, that will prevent your client from making the same one.” - LuAnn Nigara “When you showcase your fun, you won’t believe how many people will relate to it.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer More About Nancy Ganzekaufer Nancy Ganzekaufer is a highly sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior designers on marketing & sales strategies and systems, teaching them how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority. In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in my book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a keynote sponsor at LuAnn Live, a frequent guest on this podcast, and one of my past Power Talk Friday experts. Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter and was an Executive IDS Board Member and the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York. Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Check out the Profit Insiders Academy Hop on my calendar for a Business Strategy Session! Maximize your profitability and never be underpaid again Protect yourself, your business, AND your client Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy. Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Profit Insiders Academy Group Coaching Program which kicks off in January 2024. Nancy joins us once again to discuss how designers can approach marketing the way Taylor Swift does. Let’s face it fan or not, she is a marketing genius. This #smartlady continues to upgrade the Profit Insiders Academy with new additions including The Key- the Designer’s Ultimate Pricing Tool and NancyGPT which gives you NEXT LEVEL search capabilities. Listen in to learn how to apply to The Profit Insiders Academy and have a chance to win an additional one-on-one with Lesley.

LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments

“This year’s LuAnn Live was focused on health and wealth. This is hugely important to me. Marketing smartly is an important part of that, so you’re not running yourself ragged.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

“Share authentically and learn to apply stories. People can relate to and follow along with stories.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

Share stories where you have learned a significant lesson from a mistake, that will prevent your client from making the same one.” - LuAnn Nigara

“When you showcase your fun, you won’t believe how many people will relate to it.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

More About Nancy Ganzekaufer

Nancy Ganzekaufer is a highly sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior designers on marketing & sales strategies and systems, teaching them how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.

In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in my book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a keynote sponsor at LuAnn Live, a frequent guest on this podcast, and one of my past Power Talk Friday experts.

Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter and was an Executive IDS Board Member and the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York.

Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer

Check out the Profit Insiders Academy

Hop on my calendar for a Business Strategy Session!

Maximize your profitability and never be underpaid again

Protect yourself, your business, AND your client

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers

AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy.

]]> 3299 no 934: Eddie Maestri: Analyzing Past Projects for Future Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/934-eddie-maestri-analyzing-past-projects-for-future-success Today With Eddie Maestri: In today’s episode we’ll be touching on a topic I love, project autopsies. My guest today, Eddie Maestri, has also found these autopsies to help not only improve his overall business, but also the relationship with his team members. Eddie Maestri started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel. More About Eddie Maestri Eddie Maestri, AIA, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design and a Master of Architecture from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, with a Health Systems & Design certificate. In addition, he spent a semester in Italy, focusing on architectural and urban studies and expanding his talents and love of freehand drawing, art, and interior design. Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel. Eddie guides the firm’s team throughout the process of every project while encouraging a collaborative design studio with independent and innovative thinking. Eddie’s work has been featured on several AIA and neighborhood home tours throughout the Dallas area and in numerous local and national publications such as DHome, Luxe Interiors + Design, Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, and Domino. He prides himself on his passion for design, attention to detail, and building strong client relationships. Connect with Eddie Maestri Website Instagram Facebook Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 604 - What Would Lu Do: The All Important, Project Autopsy   AWDB 101 - Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success Other Resources Mentioned: How the Industry Has Changed: Actionable Tips to Adapt, Grow, and Profit - Free Webinar! Eileen Hahn Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Eddie Maestri: Analyzing Past Projects for Future Success full 934 LuAnn Nigara Today With Eddie Maestri: In today’s episode we’ll be touching on a topic I love, project autopsies. My guest today, Eddie Maestri, has also found these autopsies to help not only improve his overall business, but also the relationship with his... Today With Eddie Maestri: In today’s episode we’ll be touching on a topic I love, project autopsies. My guest today, Eddie Maestri, has also found these autopsies to help not only improve his overall business, but also the relationship with his team members. Eddie Maestri started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel. More About Eddie Maestri Eddie Maestri, AIA, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design and a Master of Architecture from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, with a Health Systems & Design certificate. In addition, he spent a semester in Italy, focusing on architectural and urban studies and expanding his talents and love of freehand drawing, art, and interior design. Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel. Eddie guides the firm’s team throughout the process of every project while encouraging a collaborative design studio with independent and innovative thinking. Eddie’s work has been featured on several AIA and neighborhood home tours throughout the Dallas area and in numerous local and national publications such as DHome, Luxe Interiors + Design, Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, and Domino. He prides himself on his passion for design, attention to detail, and building strong client relationships. Connect with Eddie Maestri Website Instagram Facebook Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester! Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 604 - What Would Lu Do: The All Important, Project Autopsy   AWDB 101 - Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success Other Resources Mentioned: How the Industry Has Changed: Actionable Tips to Adapt, Grow, and Profit - Free Webinar! Eileen Hahn Today With Eddie Maestri:

In today’s episode we’ll be touching on a topic I love, project autopsies. My guest today, Eddie Maestri, has also found these autopsies to help not only improve his overall business, but also the relationship with his team members. Eddie Maestri started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel.

More About Eddie Maestri

Eddie Maestri, AIA, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design and a Master of Architecture from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, with a Health Systems & Design certificate. In addition, he spent a semester in Italy, focusing on architectural and urban studies and expanding his talents and love of freehand drawing, art, and interior design.

Eddie delivers custom architecture and interiors tailored to his client’s style and needs. Each project influenced by the grand, yet approachable architecture of his hometown, the clean lines and patterns of mid-century design, and his exposure to far away places through his love of travel. Eddie guides the firm’s team throughout the process of every project while encouraging a collaborative design studio with independent and innovative thinking.

Eddie’s work has been featured on several AIA and neighborhood home tours throughout the Dallas area and in numerous local and national publications such as DHome, Luxe Interiors + Design, Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, and Domino. He prides himself on his passion for design, attention to detail, and building strong client relationships.

Connect with Eddie Maestri

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn University - Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB 604 - What Would Lu Do: The All Important, Project Autopsy

 

AWDB 101 - Joni Vanderslice – Principal of J. Banks Design – Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success

Other Resources Mentioned:

How the Industry Has Changed: Actionable Tips to Adapt, Grow, and Profit - Free Webinar!

Eileen Hahn

]]> 3928 no 933: Power Talk Friday: Leslie Carothers: Is the Metaverse and AI the Future of Interior Design? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/933-power-talk-friday-leslie-carothers-is-the-metaverse-and-ai-the-future-of-interior-design Today With Leslie Carothers: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You’ve probably heard about new technology developing—AI, chatGPT, the metaverse—all the things. But are you jumping on the bandwagon? Today Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership, a digital marketing firm for interior designers, is here to talk about how metaverse applications and AI are changing the future of the world, business in general, and our industry. LuAnn Nigara and Leslie Carothers' Ah-Ha Moments “There is nothing that will replace the soul that you bring to a project, there is nothing that will replace the execution ability that you bring to a project. There's nothing that will ever replace the problem-solving ability that you bring to a project. And there's nothing that will ever replace the therapeutic aspect, as many of you know, that you bring to a project for your clients. You are irreplaceable as designers. So you never have to worry about AI replacing, in my opinion, ever, your jobs.” -Leslie More About Leslie Carothers Named by Home Furnishing News Magazine as one of the Top 40 Most Inspiring Women In Home, Ms. Carothers has a long history of innovating within the digital marketing space.  Her innovations have included: implementing the USA’s first ever furniture product development initiative in the virtual world of Second Life, implementing the USA’s first ever multi-brand influencer marketing program on behalf of her past client, Cargill’s BiOH Polyols division, and acting as co-principal in the world’s first virtual designer showhouse to include augmented reality. Other innovations include being the first agency to offer shoppable digital magazine creation on behalf of brands within the home furnishings and interior design industry and being the first to work with a major publisher, Meredith Corporation’s Better Homes and Garden Magazine, to bring together a group of influencers with a group of journalists, during the implementation of BHG’s first Stylemakers program.  Most recently, she is the founding advisory partner and an investor in the world’s first international search engine platform, Ethos Design Collective, that allows consumers to search for vetted luxury designers to hire.  Ms. Carothers was also an early user of Facebook Groups and now runs the popular Facebook Group, #DesignWealth, for interior designers who are interested in all aspects of designing passive income into their websites.  In her spare time, she is a long time volunteer board member of the Bienenstock Furniture Library and also writes a popular lifestyle blog, Design Happy Living, where brands like Thibaut have collaborated with her to reach new consumer/designer audiences. Connect with Leslie Carothers Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 24 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Leslie Carothers: Is the Metaverse and AI the Future of Interior Design? full 933 LuAnn Nigara Today With Leslie Carothers: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You’ve probably heard about new technology developing—AI, chatGPT, the metaverse—all the things. But are you jumping on the bandwagon? Today Leslie Carothers of Savour... Today With Leslie Carothers: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You’ve probably heard about new technology developing—AI, chatGPT, the metaverse—all the things. But are you jumping on the bandwagon? Today Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership, a digital marketing firm for interior designers, is here to talk about how metaverse applications and AI are changing the future of the world, business in general, and our industry. LuAnn Nigara and Leslie Carothers' Ah-Ha Moments “There is nothing that will replace the soul that you bring to a project, there is nothing that will replace the execution ability that you bring to a project. There's nothing that will ever replace the problem-solving ability that you bring to a project. And there's nothing that will ever replace the therapeutic aspect, as many of you know, that you bring to a project for your clients. You are irreplaceable as designers. So you never have to worry about AI replacing, in my opinion, ever, your jobs.” -Leslie More About Leslie Carothers Named by Home Furnishing News Magazine as one of the Top 40 Most Inspiring Women In Home, Ms. Carothers has a long history of innovating within the digital marketing space.  Her innovations have included: implementing the USA’s first ever furniture product development initiative in the virtual world of Second Life, implementing the USA’s first ever multi-brand influencer marketing program on behalf of her past client, Cargill’s BiOH Polyols division, and acting as co-principal in the world’s first virtual designer showhouse to include augmented reality. Other innovations include being the first agency to offer shoppable digital magazine creation on behalf of brands within the home furnishings and interior design industry and being the first to work with a major publisher, Meredith Corporation’s Better Homes and Garden Magazine, to bring together a group of influencers with a group of journalists, during the implementation of BHG’s first Stylemakers program.  Most recently, she is the founding advisory partner and an investor in the world’s first international search engine platform, Ethos Design Collective, that allows consumers to search for vetted luxury designers to hire.  Ms. Carothers was also an early user of Facebook Groups and now runs the popular Facebook Group, #DesignWealth, for interior designers who are interested in all aspects of designing passive income into their websites.  In her spare time, she is a long time volunteer board member of the Bienenstock Furniture Library and also writes a popular lifestyle blog, Design Happy Living, where brands like Thibaut have collaborated with her to reach new consumer/designer audiences. Connect with Leslie Carothers Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Leslie Carothers:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. You’ve probably heard about new technology developing—AI, chatGPT, the metaverse—all the things. But are you jumping on the bandwagon? Today Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership, a digital marketing firm for interior designers, is here to talk about how metaverse applications and AI are changing the future of the world, business in general, and our industry.

LuAnn Nigara and Leslie Carothers' Ah-Ha Moments

“There is nothing that will replace the soul that you bring to a project, there is nothing that will replace the execution ability that you bring to a project. There's nothing that will ever replace the problem-solving ability that you bring to a project. And there's nothing that will ever replace the therapeutic aspect, as many of you know, that you bring to a project for your clients. You are irreplaceable as designers. So you never have to worry about AI replacing, in my opinion, ever, your jobs.” -Leslie

More About Leslie Carothers

Named by Home Furnishing News Magazine as one of the Top 40 Most Inspiring Women In Home, Ms. Carothers has a long history of innovating within the digital marketing space. 

Her innovations have included: implementing the USA’s first ever furniture product development initiative in the virtual world of Second Life, implementing the USA’s first ever multi-brand influencer marketing program on behalf of her past client, Cargill’s BiOH Polyols division, and acting as co-principal in the world’s first virtual designer showhouse to include augmented reality.

Other innovations include being the first agency to offer shoppable digital magazine creation on behalf of brands within the home furnishings and interior design industry and being the first to work with a major publisher, Meredith Corporation’s Better Homes and Garden Magazine, to bring together a group of influencers with a group of journalists, during the implementation of BHG’s first Stylemakers program. 

Most recently, she is the founding advisory partner and an investor in the world’s first international search engine platform, Ethos Design Collective, that allows consumers to search for vetted luxury designers to hire. 

Ms. Carothers was also an early user of Facebook Groups and now runs the popular Facebook Group, #DesignWealth, for interior designers who are interested in all aspects of designing passive income into their websites. 

In her spare time, she is a long time volunteer board member of the Bienenstock Furniture Library and also writes a popular lifestyle blog, Design Happy Living, where brands like Thibaut have collaborated with her to reach new consumer/designer audiences.

Connect with Leslie Carothers

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Facebook

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4983 no 932: What Would Lu Do: How To Turn Your Aha’s into Action http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/932-what-would-lu-do-how-to-turn-your-ahas-into-action Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, we'll talk about how to turn your aha moments into actionable steps that will help you achieve your goals for your business and your life. You will hear some of the amazing insights from Amber De La Garza, a productivity coach who was a guide at LuAnn Live, and how she taught us to get our CRAP together. LuAnn's Ah-Ha Moments: “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll wind up somewhere else.” -LuAnn “The best version of your well designed business is only achievable through a well designed life. They are intertwined, without question.” -LuAnn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 21 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: How To Turn Your Aha’s into Action full 932 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, we'll talk about how to turn your aha moments into actionable steps that will help you achieve your goals for your business and your life. You will hear some of the... Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, we'll talk about how to turn your aha moments into actionable steps that will help you achieve your goals for your business and your life. You will hear some of the amazing insights from Amber De La Garza, a productivity coach who was a guide at LuAnn Live, and how she taught us to get our CRAP together. LuAnn's Ah-Ha Moments: “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll wind up somewhere else.” -LuAnn “The best version of your well designed business is only achievable through a well designed life. They are intertwined, without question.” -LuAnn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara:

 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In this episode, we'll talk about how to turn your aha moments into actionable steps that will help you achieve your goals for your business and your life. You will hear some of the amazing insights from Amber De La Garza, a productivity coach who was a guide at LuAnn Live, and how she taught us to get our CRAP together.

LuAnn's Ah-Ha Moments:

“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll wind up somewhere else.” -LuAnn

“The best version of your well designed business is only achievable through a well designed life. They are intertwined, without question.” -LuAnn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 2265 no 931: Power Talk Friday: Matthew Finlin: The Key to Selling with Authenticity and Compassion http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/931-power-talk-friday-matthew-finlin-the-key-to-selling-with-authenticity-and-compassion Today With Matthew Finlin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’re a long-time listener of the show, you already know that I was a salesperson basically from birth. Selling is a part of my nature. But for most designers, that doesn’t seem to be the case. Why is that? Why do some of us gravitate toward selling while it sends others into a panic? My guest today, Matthew Finlin, CEO of The Human Potential Academy, believes he knows—and he’s shedding light on why this happens and what designers can do to bring more assertiveness into the process and close with confidence and compassion. LuAnn Nigara and Matthew Finlin's Ah-Ha Moments “Compassionate closing is all about recognizing that if you have a product or service that you truly believe is going to benefit this person and change their life positively.” -Matthew “I don't care how wealthy you are wants to overpay. That's the truth. But what I know from all the interviews I've done is that 99% of designers are going to deliver their heart and soul into the project—they just need to convey their value.” -LuAnn More About Matthew Finlin Matthew Finlin is the founder and CEO of Human Potential Academy. He has been a business phenom since he started his career a decade ago. From door-to-door sales trainer to high level business in Hong Kong. A man of many talents, he started off as an entrepreneur and after a massive spiritual awakening, he answered the call. His life mission is to bridge the gaps between the business, scientific, and spiritual communities. Matthew's extensive experience in both business and personal development allows him to bring out the best in every individual, helping them achieve their full potential and make a difference in the world. He is dedicated to helping as many people as possible reach their fullest potential by empowering self-leadership. He now trains and coaches his teams and clients in his philosophy: the 5 Pillars of Human Potential. It’s important to note that he started his coaching career working exclusively with women and helping them achieve any goals they desire, whether it’s business, relationships or more. Connect with Matthew Finlin Website Instagram  Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 17 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Matthew Finlin: The Key to Selling with Authenticity and Compassion full 931 LuAnn Nigara Today With Matthew Finlin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’re a long-time listener of the show, you already know that I was a salesperson basically from birth. Selling is a part of my nature. But for most designers, that doesn’t seem... Today With Matthew Finlin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’re a long-time listener of the show, you already know that I was a salesperson basically from birth. Selling is a part of my nature. But for most designers, that doesn’t seem to be the case. Why is that? Why do some of us gravitate toward selling while it sends others into a panic? My guest today, Matthew Finlin, CEO of The Human Potential Academy, believes he knows—and he’s shedding light on why this happens and what designers can do to bring more assertiveness into the process and close with confidence and compassion. LuAnn Nigara and Matthew Finlin's Ah-Ha Moments “Compassionate closing is all about recognizing that if you have a product or service that you truly believe is going to benefit this person and change their life positively.” -Matthew “I don't care how wealthy you are wants to overpay. That's the truth. But what I know from all the interviews I've done is that 99% of designers are going to deliver their heart and soul into the project—they just need to convey their value.” -LuAnn More About Matthew Finlin Matthew Finlin is the founder and CEO of Human Potential Academy. He has been a business phenom since he started his career a decade ago. From door-to-door sales trainer to high level business in Hong Kong. A man of many talents, he started off as an entrepreneur and after a massive spiritual awakening, he answered the call. His life mission is to bridge the gaps between the business, scientific, and spiritual communities. Matthew's extensive experience in both business and personal development allows him to bring out the best in every individual, helping them achieve their full potential and make a difference in the world. He is dedicated to helping as many people as possible reach their fullest potential by empowering self-leadership. He now trains and coaches his teams and clients in his philosophy: the 5 Pillars of Human Potential. It’s important to note that he started his coaching career working exclusively with women and helping them achieve any goals they desire, whether it’s business, relationships or more. Connect with Matthew Finlin Website Instagram  Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Matthew Finlin:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. If you’re a long-time listener of the show, you already know that I was a salesperson basically from birth. Selling is a part of my nature. But for most designers, that doesn’t seem to be the case. Why is that? Why do some of us gravitate toward selling while it sends others into a panic? My guest today, Matthew Finlin, CEO of The Human Potential Academy, believes he knows—and he’s shedding light on why this happens and what designers can do to bring more assertiveness into the process and close with confidence and compassion.

LuAnn Nigara and Matthew Finlin's Ah-Ha Moments

“Compassionate closing is all about recognizing that if you have a product or service that you truly believe is going to benefit this person and change their life positively.” -Matthew

“I don't care how wealthy you are wants to overpay. That's the truth. But what I know from all the interviews I've done is that 99% of designers are going to deliver their heart and soul into the project—they just need to convey their value.” -LuAnn

More About Matthew Finlin

Matthew Finlin is the founder and CEO of Human Potential Academy. He has been a business phenom since he started his career a decade ago. From door-to-door sales trainer to high level business in Hong Kong.

A man of many talents, he started off as an entrepreneur and after a massive spiritual awakening, he answered the call. His life mission is to bridge the gaps between the business, scientific, and spiritual communities.

Matthew's extensive experience in both business and personal development allows him to bring out the best in every individual, helping them achieve their full potential and make a difference in the world. He is dedicated to helping as many people as possible reach their fullest potential by empowering self-leadership.

He now trains and coaches his teams and clients in his philosophy: the 5 Pillars of Human Potential. It’s important to note that he started his coaching career working exclusively with women and helping them achieve any goals they desire, whether it’s business, relationships or more.

Connect with Matthew Finlin

Website

Instagram 

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3500 no 930: April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/930-april-gandy-the-key-to-managing-a-successful-renovation-project Today With April Gandy: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by April Gandy, owner and Principal Designer of Allure Designs. With six successful years in the design industry and an appearance on HGTV, April could teach us a lot! But today she wanted the focus to be on what you, and your client, can expect both mentally and financially when working on a renovation project. This is an episode that will give you simple AHA moments. Any episode where my guest wants to help with the process with our clients, is a win. April Gandy's Ah-Ha Moments “Understanding what you are doing before you do it is going to help you keep your time lines and budgets in check, but also your client in check,” - April Gandy “The more information that you give them from the start, the more you ensure them that you know what you are doing and they’ll trust you,” - April Gandy. More About April Gandy After graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School, I went on to college at Northern Illinois University and became the first in my family to graduate from a university. During this time, I joined the US Air Force Reserve in 2000 and proudly served our country for 21 years. I pledged the greatest Sorority in the world, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in 2002. I later graduated with a BA in Criminology and went on to complete an MEd in Instructional Design. At the age of 23, I bought my first piece of property; a 700 square foot fixer–upper condominium in the west suburbs of Chicago. As an impecunious single mother, I had to think outside the box to bring my new home to life. I taught myself many things on the road to transforming my fixer–upper into a beautiful home. Throughout the years, my skills evolved and I began assisting family and friends in making their homes beautiful. After a decade of working on personal projects, I decided to make the business official and pursued an interior design career. I created Alluring Designs Chicago in 2017. I partnered with my mother, Valerie Steward, and close family friend, Jennifer Anderson, to breathe life into this business venture. Together we have overseen multiple renovation projects and countless room makeovers. Our team dynamic is seamless and together we bring so much value to every project. Although becoming owner and Principal Designer of my interior design firm, my expansion mission includes founding a community development organization dedicated to building beautiful homes in the inner city. The vision is to make communities beautiful one home at a time. Let's get to work! Connect with April Gandy Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Houzz Yelp What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.   #874: Zane and Emily Williams: Leading Clients Through the Design   #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project full 930 LuAnn Nigara Today With April Gandy: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by April Gandy, owner and Principal Designer of Allure Designs. With six successful years in the design industry and an appearance on HGTV, April could teach us a lot! But today she... Today With April Gandy: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by April Gandy, owner and Principal Designer of Allure Designs. With six successful years in the design industry and an appearance on HGTV, April could teach us a lot! But today she wanted the focus to be on what you, and your client, can expect both mentally and financially when working on a renovation project. This is an episode that will give you simple AHA moments. Any episode where my guest wants to help with the process with our clients, is a win. April Gandy's Ah-Ha Moments “Understanding what you are doing before you do it is going to help you keep your time lines and budgets in check, but also your client in check,” - April Gandy “The more information that you give them from the start, the more you ensure them that you know what you are doing and they’ll trust you,” - April Gandy. More About April Gandy After graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School, I went on to college at Northern Illinois University and became the first in my family to graduate from a university. During this time, I joined the US Air Force Reserve in 2000 and proudly served our country for 21 years. I pledged the greatest Sorority in the world, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in 2002. I later graduated with a BA in Criminology and went on to complete an MEd in Instructional Design. At the age of 23, I bought my first piece of property; a 700 square foot fixer–upper condominium in the west suburbs of Chicago. As an impecunious single mother, I had to think outside the box to bring my new home to life. I taught myself many things on the road to transforming my fixer–upper into a beautiful home. Throughout the years, my skills evolved and I began assisting family and friends in making their homes beautiful. After a decade of working on personal projects, I decided to make the business official and pursued an interior design career. I created Alluring Designs Chicago in 2017. I partnered with my mother, Valerie Steward, and close family friend, Jennifer Anderson, to breathe life into this business venture. Together we have overseen multiple renovation projects and countless room makeovers. Our team dynamic is seamless and together we bring so much value to every project. Although becoming owner and Principal Designer of my interior design firm, my expansion mission includes founding a community development organization dedicated to building beautiful homes in the inner city. The vision is to make communities beautiful one home at a time. Let's get to work! Connect with April Gandy Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Houzz Yelp What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.   #874: Zane and Emily Williams: Leading Clients Through the Design   #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects Today With April Gandy:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by April Gandy, owner and Principal Designer of Allure Designs. With six successful years in the design industry and an appearance on HGTV, April could teach us a lot! But today she wanted the focus to be on what you, and your client, can expect both mentally and financially when working on a renovation project. This is an episode that will give you simple AHA moments. Any episode where my guest wants to help with the process with our clients, is a win.

April Gandy's Ah-Ha Moments

“Understanding what you are doing before you do it is going to help you keep your time lines and budgets in check, but also your client in check,” - April Gandy

“The more information that you give them from the start, the more you ensure them that you know what you are doing and they’ll trust you,” - April Gandy.

More About April Gandy

After graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School, I went on to college at Northern Illinois University and became the first in my family to graduate from a university. During this time, I joined the US Air Force Reserve in 2000 and proudly served our country for 21 years. I pledged the greatest Sorority in the world, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in 2002. I later graduated with a BA in Criminology and went on to complete an MEd in Instructional Design. At the age of 23, I bought my first piece of property; a 700 square foot fixer–upper condominium in the west suburbs of Chicago. As an impecunious single mother, I had to think outside the box to bring my new home to life. I taught myself many things on the road to transforming my fixer–upper into a beautiful home. Throughout the years, my skills evolved and I began assisting family and friends in making their homes beautiful. After a decade of working on personal projects, I decided to make the business official and pursued an interior design career. I created Alluring Designs Chicago in 2017. I partnered with my mother, Valerie Steward, and close family friend, Jennifer Anderson, to breathe life into this business venture. Together we have overseen multiple renovation projects and countless room makeovers. Our team dynamic is seamless and together we bring so much value to every project. Although becoming owner and Principal Designer of my interior design firm, my expansion mission includes founding a community development organization dedicated to building beautiful homes in the inner city. The vision is to make communities beautiful one home at a time. Let's get to work!

Connect with April Gandy

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Houzz

Yelp

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

 

#278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.

 

#874: Zane and Emily Williams: Leading Clients Through the Design

 

#905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

]]> 4189 no 929: Power Talk Friday: Christina Frei: Learn How to Market From Your Specific Strengths http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/929-power-talk-friday-christina-frei-learn-how-to-market-from-your-specific-strengths Today With Christina Frei: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christina Frei, owner of Innate Marketing Genius, a boutique marketing practice where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Christina takes a holistic approach to marketing, and helps us discover how to market from our strengths by identifying our marketing archetype. In this conversation, we dig into what it means to be a Nurturer, Adventure Guide, Door Opener, Steady Presence, and Celebrator, and how this can help you show up better in your business. LuAnn Nigara & Christina Frei's Ah-Ha Moments  “What I noticed is that when people operate from that deep ‘why’—that fulfilling, helping other humans kind of thing, then it's magnetic.” – Christina Frei “So much starts with being self-aware… If you have self-awareness, you can show up in your blog posts, in your marketing, in your consultations, and in your design” – LuAnn Nigara More About Christina Frei Christina runs a boutique marketing practice called Innate Marketing Genius, where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Her holistic marketing approach grew out of a lonely, chaotic time, when she moved to Boston all on her own—and discovered her own way to really connect with people. Personally, she's on a mission to live more sustainably; she is obsessed with thrift shopping and is a new convert to plant-based eating. In between, she chases her dog around with a stuffed animal snake, meditates on a pink couch, cold plunges like Wim Hof all year long, and obsesses over the perfect cup of green tea, all in a seaside town just north of Boston. Connect with Christina Frei Website Facebook  LinkedIn Book Free Assessment What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness TIE #183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You Fri, 10 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Christina Frei: Learn How to Market From Your Specific Strengths full 929 LuAnn Nigara Today With Christina Frei: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christina Frei, owner of Innate Marketing Genius, a boutique marketing practice where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the... Today With Christina Frei: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christina Frei, owner of Innate Marketing Genius, a boutique marketing practice where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Christina takes a holistic approach to marketing, and helps us discover how to market from our strengths by identifying our marketing archetype. In this conversation, we dig into what it means to be a Nurturer, Adventure Guide, Door Opener, Steady Presence, and Celebrator, and how this can help you show up better in your business. LuAnn Nigara & Christina Frei's Ah-Ha Moments  “What I noticed is that when people operate from that deep ‘why’—that fulfilling, helping other humans kind of thing, then it's magnetic.” – Christina Frei “So much starts with being self-aware… If you have self-awareness, you can show up in your blog posts, in your marketing, in your consultations, and in your design” – LuAnn Nigara More About Christina Frei Christina runs a boutique marketing practice called Innate Marketing Genius, where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Her holistic marketing approach grew out of a lonely, chaotic time, when she moved to Boston all on her own—and discovered her own way to really connect with people. Personally, she's on a mission to live more sustainably; she is obsessed with thrift shopping and is a new convert to plant-based eating. In between, she chases her dog around with a stuffed animal snake, meditates on a pink couch, cold plunges like Wim Hof all year long, and obsesses over the perfect cup of green tea, all in a seaside town just north of Boston. Connect with Christina Frei Website Facebook  LinkedIn Book Free Assessment What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness TIE #183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You Today With Christina Frei:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Christina Frei, owner of Innate Marketing Genius, a boutique marketing practice where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Christina takes a holistic approach to marketing, and helps us discover how to market from our strengths by identifying our marketing archetype. In this conversation, we dig into what it means to be a Nurturer, Adventure Guide, Door Opener, Steady Presence, and Celebrator, and how this can help you show up better in your business.

LuAnn Nigara & Christina Frei's Ah-Ha Moments

 “What I noticed is that when people operate from that deep ‘why’—that fulfilling, helping other humans kind of thing, then it's magnetic.” – Christina Frei

“So much starts with being self-aware… If you have self-awareness, you can show up in your blog posts, in your marketing, in your consultations, and in your design” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Christina Frei

Christina runs a boutique marketing practice called Innate Marketing Genius, where she helps solo business owners own their voice, market to their strengths, and get the right clients consistently. Her holistic marketing approach grew out of a lonely, chaotic time, when she moved to Boston all on her own—and discovered her own way to really connect with people.

Personally, she's on a mission to live more sustainably; she is obsessed with thrift shopping and is a new convert to plant-based eating. In between, she chases her dog around with a stuffed animal snake, meditates on a pink couch, cold plunges like Wim Hof all year long, and obsesses over the perfect cup of green tea, all in a seaside town just north of Boston.

Connect with Christina Frei

Website

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Book

Free Assessment

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes TIE #180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness TIE #183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You

]]> 3939 no 928: What Would Lu Do?: 3 Beliefs Holding Back Your Interior Design Business (and How to Avoid Them) http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/928-what-would-lu-do-3-beliefs-holding-back-your-interior-design-business-and-how-to-avoid-them Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show and we'll be talking about charging. We'll go over the three common beliefs that hold us back from achieving our full potential: that our clients only want the biggest discount, that we deliver a shoppable product, and that we are competing with everyone else. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 07 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: 3 Beliefs Holding Back Your Interior Design Business (and How to Avoid Them) full 928 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show and we'll be talking about charging. We'll go over the three common beliefs that hold us back from achieving our full potential: that our clients only want the... Today With LuAnn Nigara:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show and we'll be talking about charging. We'll go over the three common beliefs that hold us back from achieving our full potential: that our clients only want the biggest discount, that we deliver a shoppable product, and that we are competing with everyone else. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With LuAnn Nigara:

 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show and we'll be talking about charging. We'll go over the three common beliefs that hold us back from achieving our full potential: that our clients only want the biggest discount, that we deliver a shoppable product, and that we are competing with everyone else.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 1524 no 927: Power Talk Friday: Bernadette Smith: Her ARC Framework to Create an Inclusive 350 Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/927-power-talk-friday-bernadette-smith-her-arc-framework-to-create-an-inclusive-350-interior-design-business Today With Bernadette Smith: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Bernadette Smith, Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. When we are afraid of offending someone, we tend to say nothing. We get so comfortable in our lanes, that we dont do much to move diversity forward. Bernadette and I discuss how to have the courage to address diversity. She talks about her ARC Method that helps people become open and actionable, and much more! LuAnn Nigara & Bernadette Smith's Ah-Ha Moments “My approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion is that we are all in this together and can learn from each other.” - Bernadette Smith “I have a lot of privilege. Some of it I’ve earned like my master’s degree, but a lot I didn’t earn, so I feel like I have a responsibility and a sense of purpose to know how much power I have by accident,” Bernadette Smith “A positive ROI of creating meaningful conversations among your team, is that they will become better equipped to have meaningful conversations with their clients.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Bernadette Smith Bernadette is Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. She’s an award-winning author of four books, including her latest, the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization. Bernadette is frequently requested as a keynote speaker to help promote an inclusive work environment and celebrate diversity. She is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and has presented to a variety of audiences, including CEOs, leadership teams, human resource and diversity leaders, sales and marketing professionals and more.  Because of her insight and impact as a change agent, she has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, the Washington Post, and Fast Company. Her media exposure includes appearing on CNN, the Today Show, the BBC, and National Public Radio. Bernadette has been named one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives by Crain’s Chicago Business. Connect with Bernadette Smith Website  Website  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)   AWDB: #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Fri, 03 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Bernadette Smith: Her ARC Framework to Create an Inclusive 350 Interior Design Business full 927 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bernadette Smith: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Bernadette Smith, Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational... Today With Bernadette Smith: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Bernadette Smith, Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. When we are afraid of offending someone, we tend to say nothing. We get so comfortable in our lanes, that we dont do much to move diversity forward. Bernadette and I discuss how to have the courage to address diversity. She talks about her ARC Method that helps people become open and actionable, and much more! LuAnn Nigara & Bernadette Smith's Ah-Ha Moments “My approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion is that we are all in this together and can learn from each other.” - Bernadette Smith “I have a lot of privilege. Some of it I’ve earned like my master’s degree, but a lot I didn’t earn, so I feel like I have a responsibility and a sense of purpose to know how much power I have by accident,” Bernadette Smith “A positive ROI of creating meaningful conversations among your team, is that they will become better equipped to have meaningful conversations with their clients.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Bernadette Smith Bernadette is Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. She’s an award-winning author of four books, including her latest, the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization. Bernadette is frequently requested as a keynote speaker to help promote an inclusive work environment and celebrate diversity. She is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and has presented to a variety of audiences, including CEOs, leadership teams, human resource and diversity leaders, sales and marketing professionals and more.  Because of her insight and impact as a change agent, she has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, the Washington Post, and Fast Company. Her media exposure includes appearing on CNN, the Today Show, the BBC, and National Public Radio. Bernadette has been named one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives by Crain’s Chicago Business. Connect with Bernadette Smith Website  Website  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)   AWDB: #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Today With Bernadette Smith:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Bernadette Smith, Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. When we are afraid of offending someone, we tend to say nothing. We get so comfortable in our lanes, that we dont do much to move diversity forward. Bernadette and I discuss how to have the courage to address diversity. She talks about her ARC Method that helps people become open and actionable, and much more!

LuAnn Nigara & Bernadette Smith's Ah-Ha Moments

“My approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion is that we are all in this together and can learn from each other.” - Bernadette Smith

“I have a lot of privilege. Some of it I’ve earned like my master’s degree, but a lot I didn’t earn, so I feel like I have a responsibility and a sense of purpose to know how much power I have by accident,” Bernadette Smith

“A positive ROI of creating meaningful conversations among your team, is that they will become better equipped to have meaningful conversations with their clients.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Bernadette Smith

Bernadette is Founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission embed equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for employees and customers. She’s an award-winning author of four books, including her latest, the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization.

Bernadette is frequently requested as a keynote speaker to help promote an inclusive work environment and celebrate diversity. She is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and has presented to a variety of audiences, including CEOs, leadership teams, human resource and diversity leaders, sales and marketing professionals and more. 

Because of her insight and impact as a change agent, she has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, the Washington Post, and Fast Company. Her media exposure includes appearing on CNN, the Today Show, the BBC, and National Public Radio. Bernadette has been named one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives by Crain’s Chicago Business.

Connect with Bernadette Smith

Website 

Website 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

 

AWDB: #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers

]]> 3050 no 926: Emmy Marek: Building a Business While Building a Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/926-emmy-marek-building-a-business-while-building-a-life Today With Emmy Marek: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Emmy Marek of Emmy Couture Designs, an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. In 2016, after working for both an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes, Emmy decided to go into business for herself, opening Emmy Couture when she was only 26 years old. Since then she has spent her time growing her luxury design firm and growing her family. Now, with two children under the age of five and projects all over the country, Emmy is a study in balance, efficiency, and organization. But she won’t take all the credit. She says it takes having a good team at home and at work is key to making it all happen. Emmy and I are discussing how she manages everything, how she finds time for herself and the relationships that mean the most to her, and why she is driven to do it all. LuAnn Nigara and Emmy Marek's Ah-Ha Moments  “Your dreams can always happen if you have a good team. So whether your team is inside your business, or your team is at home, it takes both to be successful.” – Emmy Marek “There are ways that we can show appreciation and give value and support the people that work for us. Because, by the way, we need them.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Emmy Marek Emmy Couture Designs is an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. With over 10 years of experience in the luxury residential and boutique commercial design industry, her in-depth knowledge and expertise lead clients on a beautiful design journey. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Interior Design from Northern Arizona University, Emily spent many years at an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes. In 2016, Emily decided to channel her experience and impressive portfolio into a firm of her own: Emmy Couture Designs. In addition to her fashion - forward style, she stands out in the industry for her extensive experience designing interior architecture and managing large construction projects. This translates to award-winning interiors where every detail is polished, elevated, and contributes to an incredible daily experience. Connect with Emmy Marek Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking AWDB #906: Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee  TIE #178 Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment Tue, 31 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Emmy Marek: Building a Business While Building a Life full 926 LuAnn Nigara Today With Emmy Marek: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Emmy Marek of Emmy Couture Designs, an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. In 2016, after working for... Today With Emmy Marek: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Emmy Marek of Emmy Couture Designs, an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. In 2016, after working for both an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes, Emmy decided to go into business for herself, opening Emmy Couture when she was only 26 years old. Since then she has spent her time growing her luxury design firm and growing her family. Now, with two children under the age of five and projects all over the country, Emmy is a study in balance, efficiency, and organization. But she won’t take all the credit. She says it takes having a good team at home and at work is key to making it all happen. Emmy and I are discussing how she manages everything, how she finds time for herself and the relationships that mean the most to her, and why she is driven to do it all. LuAnn Nigara and Emmy Marek's Ah-Ha Moments  “Your dreams can always happen if you have a good team. So whether your team is inside your business, or your team is at home, it takes both to be successful.” – Emmy Marek “There are ways that we can show appreciation and give value and support the people that work for us. Because, by the way, we need them.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Emmy Marek Emmy Couture Designs is an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. With over 10 years of experience in the luxury residential and boutique commercial design industry, her in-depth knowledge and expertise lead clients on a beautiful design journey. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Interior Design from Northern Arizona University, Emily spent many years at an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes. In 2016, Emily decided to channel her experience and impressive portfolio into a firm of her own: Emmy Couture Designs. In addition to her fashion - forward style, she stands out in the industry for her extensive experience designing interior architecture and managing large construction projects. This translates to award-winning interiors where every detail is polished, elevated, and contributes to an incredible daily experience. Connect with Emmy Marek Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking AWDB #906: Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee  TIE #178 Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment Today With Emmy Marek:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Emmy Marek of Emmy Couture Designs, an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. In 2016, after working for both an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes, Emmy decided to go into business for herself, opening Emmy Couture when she was only 26 years old. Since then she has spent her time growing her luxury design firm and growing her family. Now, with two children under the age of five and projects all over the country, Emmy is a study in balance, efficiency, and organization. But she won’t take all the credit. She says it takes having a good team at home and at work is key to making it all happen. Emmy and I are discussing how she manages everything, how she finds time for herself and the relationships that mean the most to her, and why she is driven to do it all.

LuAnn Nigara and Emmy Marek's Ah-Ha Moments

 “Your dreams can always happen if you have a good team. So whether your team is inside your business, or your team is at home, it takes both to be successful.” – Emmy Marek

“There are ways that we can show appreciation and give value and support the people that work for us. Because, by the way, we need them.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Emmy Marek

Emmy Couture Designs is an award-winning full-service interior design firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and serving clients nationwide. With over 10 years of experience in the luxury residential and boutique commercial design industry, her in-depth knowledge and expertise lead clients on a beautiful design journey. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Interior Design from Northern Arizona University, Emily spent many years at an architectural design firm and a luxury design-build firm, where she became fluent in creating custom homes. In 2016, Emily decided to channel her experience and impressive portfolio into a firm of her own: Emmy Couture Designs. In addition to her fashion - forward style, she stands out in the industry for her extensive experience designing interior architecture and managing large construction projects. This translates to award-winning interiors where every detail is polished, elevated, and contributes to an incredible daily experience.

Connect with Emmy Marek

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation AWDB #885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking AWDB #906: Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee 

TIE #178 Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment

]]> 3983 no 925: Power Talk Friday: Monica Sharma-Patnekar: Your REAL Audience Vs. Your IDEAL Audience; How To Find Them and Keep Them http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/925-power-talk-friday-monica-sharma-patnekar-your-real-audience-vs-your-ideal-audience-how-to-find-them-and-keep-them Today With Monica Sharma-Patnekar: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Monica Sharma-Patnekar, Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO and owner of Business with Monica. We are deep-diving into how to attract your REAL audience, the ones who actually respond to your brand messaging and marketing. Monika explains how to find out what attracted your clients to you. What it was that made them choose you over your competition, what resonated with them in your messaging, and how to keep doing it to get even more clients. LuAnn Nigara & Monica Sharma-Patnekar's Ah-Ha Moments “When talking about customer interviews, remember that people love helping people. They appreciate being seen and heard.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar “The key is finding out how you serve your ‘real’ clients at every touchpoint.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar “A brand is a feeling and how you make your customers feel at every step of their journey.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar More About Monica Sharma-Patnekar As a customer-centric marketing strategist Monica gives high-touch mentorship for creative business owners who want a clearer, more focused, vision for their brand. To communicate & connect with their REAL audience, without spinning their wheels on messaging, content, ads & tactics that don’t convert. So that they can impact even more people’s lives with their products and services – and feel like they have control over their own. Monica has over 18 years of experience building brands. From her masters in business with a major in Marketing, to working with Fortune500 companies, across Brand Management, Strategy Consulting & Global Marketing, being hired by Google to coach their premium partners and now working with both larger conscious scale-ups and her passion, coaching creative entrepreneurs. Monica is Dutch by birth.⁠ Indian by heritage. Global by choice & education.⁠⁠⁠ An intuitive, creative & analytical thinker. A dancer.⁠ A chai-fanatic. Raised by a single mom in a country that she made her own. A mom of 2 girls. She brings a diverse & inclusive perspective to the work she does. From having worked with big corporates, scale & start-ups to small businesses, across regions & sectors, to her own very multicultural upbringing. Connect with Monica Sharma-Patnekar Website  Business with Monica Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management AWDB: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! AWDB: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen AWDB: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? Fri, 27 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Monica Sharma-Patnekar: Your REAL Audience Vs. Your IDEAL Audience; How To Find Them and Keep Them full 925 LuAnn Nigara Today With Monica Sharma-Patnekar: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Monica Sharma-Patnekar, Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO and owner of Business with Monica. We are deep-diving into how to attract your REAL audience, the ones... Today With Monica Sharma-Patnekar: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Monica Sharma-Patnekar, Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO and owner of Business with Monica. We are deep-diving into how to attract your REAL audience, the ones who actually respond to your brand messaging and marketing. Monika explains how to find out what attracted your clients to you. What it was that made them choose you over your competition, what resonated with them in your messaging, and how to keep doing it to get even more clients. LuAnn Nigara & Monica Sharma-Patnekar's Ah-Ha Moments “When talking about customer interviews, remember that people love helping people. They appreciate being seen and heard.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar “The key is finding out how you serve your ‘real’ clients at every touchpoint.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar “A brand is a feeling and how you make your customers feel at every step of their journey.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar More About Monica Sharma-Patnekar As a customer-centric marketing strategist Monica gives high-touch mentorship for creative business owners who want a clearer, more focused, vision for their brand. To communicate & connect with their REAL audience, without spinning their wheels on messaging, content, ads & tactics that don’t convert. So that they can impact even more people’s lives with their products and services – and feel like they have control over their own. Monica has over 18 years of experience building brands. From her masters in business with a major in Marketing, to working with Fortune500 companies, across Brand Management, Strategy Consulting & Global Marketing, being hired by Google to coach their premium partners and now working with both larger conscious scale-ups and her passion, coaching creative entrepreneurs. Monica is Dutch by birth.⁠ Indian by heritage. Global by choice & education.⁠⁠⁠ An intuitive, creative & analytical thinker. A dancer.⁠ A chai-fanatic. Raised by a single mom in a country that she made her own. A mom of 2 girls. She brings a diverse & inclusive perspective to the work she does. From having worked with big corporates, scale & start-ups to small businesses, across regions & sectors, to her own very multicultural upbringing. Connect with Monica Sharma-Patnekar Website  Business with Monica Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management AWDB: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! AWDB: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen AWDB: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? Today With Monica Sharma-Patnekar:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Monica Sharma-Patnekar, Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO and owner of Business with Monica. We are deep-diving into how to attract your REAL audience, the ones who actually respond to your brand messaging and marketing. Monika explains how to find out what attracted your clients to you. What it was that made them choose you over your competition, what resonated with them in your messaging, and how to keep doing it to get even more clients.

LuAnn Nigara & Monica Sharma-Patnekar's Ah-Ha Moments

“When talking about customer interviews, remember that people love helping people. They appreciate being seen and heard.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar

“The key is finding out how you serve your ‘real’ clients at every touchpoint.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar

“A brand is a feeling and how you make your customers feel at every step of their journey.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar

More About Monica Sharma-Patnekar

As a customer-centric marketing strategist Monica gives high-touch mentorship for creative business owners who want a clearer, more focused, vision for their brand. To communicate & connect with their REAL audience, without spinning their wheels on messaging, content, ads & tactics that don’t convert. So that they can impact even more people’s lives with their products and services – and feel like they have control over their own.

Monica has over 18 years of experience building brands. From her masters in business with a major in Marketing, to working with Fortune500 companies, across Brand Management, Strategy Consulting & Global Marketing, being hired by Google to coach their premium partners and now working with both larger conscious scale-ups and her passion, coaching creative entrepreneurs.

Monica is Dutch by birth.⁠ Indian by heritage. Global by choice & education.⁠⁠⁠ An intuitive, creative & analytical thinker. A dancer.⁠ A chai-fanatic. Raised by a single mom in a country that she made her own. A mom of 2 girls.

She brings a diverse & inclusive perspective to the work she does. From having worked with big corporates, scale & start-ups to small businesses, across regions & sectors, to her own very multicultural upbringing.

Connect with Monica Sharma-Patnekar

Website 

Business with Monica

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management

AWDB: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

AWDB: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

AWDB: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

]]> 3195 no 924: Kylie Tyrrell: From Spaces to Growth: An Interior Designer's Shift to Mentorship http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/924-kylie-tyrrell-from-spaces-to-growth-an-interior-designers-shift-to-mentorship Today With Kylie Tyrrell: As creatives, we're often expected to wear multiple hats, and today's conversation with Kylie Tyrrell, an interior designer turned mentor, lifts the veil on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding world of design and coaching. Kylie is a seasoned interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love! LuAnn Nigara and Kylie Tyrrell's Ah-Ha Moments “Action builds confidence” - Kylie Tyrrell More About Kylie Tyrrell Kylie Tyrrell is a seasoned Interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love. She runs a mentor program called Interiors Insider where she supports and nurtures new and existing designers to thrive. The exact program she wished existed when she was starting out. Connect with Kylie Tyrrell Website Instagram  Interiors Insider podcast Mentorship What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:  #6 Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 24 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Kylie Tyrrell: From Spaces to Growth: An Interior Designer's Shift to Mentorship full 924 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kylie Tyrrell: As creatives, we're often expected to wear multiple hats, and today's conversation with Kylie Tyrrell, an interior designer turned mentor, lifts the veil on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding world of design and... Today With Kylie Tyrrell: As creatives, we're often expected to wear multiple hats, and today's conversation with Kylie Tyrrell, an interior designer turned mentor, lifts the veil on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding world of design and coaching. Kylie is a seasoned interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love! LuAnn Nigara and Kylie Tyrrell's Ah-Ha Moments “Action builds confidence” - Kylie Tyrrell More About Kylie Tyrrell Kylie Tyrrell is a seasoned Interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love. She runs a mentor program called Interiors Insider where she supports and nurtures new and existing designers to thrive. The exact program she wished existed when she was starting out. Connect with Kylie Tyrrell Website Instagram  Interiors Insider podcast Mentorship What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned:  #6 Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today With Kylie Tyrrell:

As creatives, we're often expected to wear multiple hats, and today's conversation with Kylie Tyrrell, an interior designer turned mentor, lifts the veil on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding world of design and coaching. Kylie is a seasoned interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love!

LuAnn Nigara and Kylie Tyrrell's Ah-Ha Moments

“Action builds confidence” - Kylie Tyrrell

More About Kylie Tyrrell

Kylie Tyrrell is a seasoned Interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love. She runs a mentor program called Interiors Insider where she supports and nurtures new and existing designers to thrive. The exact program she wished existed when she was starting out.

Connect with Kylie Tyrrell

Website

Instagram 

Interiors Insider podcast

Mentorship

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

 #6 Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 3218 no 923: Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/923-power-talk-friday-evelyn-roberts-shayna-pellino-a-virtual-team-for-your-interior-design-business Today With Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the power of outsourcing. But if you’ve outsourced before, or if you’re just considering it, you also know that it comes with its own set of headaches—from figuring out what you need to hiring to onboarding. My guests today Shayna Pellino and Evelyn Roberts, creators of 4D Biz, understand that very well. 4D Biz is essentially a virtual team for interior designers, providing the strategy, the marketing, the admin, and even design support at the level you need for your business. Learn how their set up supports designers and why a virtual team might be right for you! LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments “The business can suck the soul out of you if you are overworked, if you are not getting the money that you deserve and you are just putting in endless hours and you're not feeling it in your bank account.” -Shayna “This new way of doing business is I'm all about it because every single person that works for me has a skill set in an expertise that has been identified as their superpower.” -LuAnn More About Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino About Shayna: Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. About Evelyn: Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers. Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results. She helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget. Connect with Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino Website Facebook Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 20 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: A Virtual Team for Your Interior Design Business full 923 LuAnn Nigara Today With Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the power of outsourcing. But if you’ve outsourced before, or if you’re just considering it, you also know that it comes with its own set of... Today With Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the power of outsourcing. But if you’ve outsourced before, or if you’re just considering it, you also know that it comes with its own set of headaches—from figuring out what you need to hiring to onboarding. My guests today Shayna Pellino and Evelyn Roberts, creators of 4D Biz, understand that very well. 4D Biz is essentially a virtual team for interior designers, providing the strategy, the marketing, the admin, and even design support at the level you need for your business. Learn how their set up supports designers and why a virtual team might be right for you! LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments “The business can suck the soul out of you if you are overworked, if you are not getting the money that you deserve and you are just putting in endless hours and you're not feeling it in your bank account.” -Shayna “This new way of doing business is I'm all about it because every single person that works for me has a skill set in an expertise that has been identified as their superpower.” -LuAnn More About Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino About Shayna: Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. About Evelyn: Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers. Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results. She helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget. Connect with Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino Website Facebook Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the power of outsourcing. But if you’ve outsourced before, or if you’re just considering it, you also know that it comes with its own set of headaches—from figuring out what you need to hiring to onboarding. My guests today Shayna Pellino and Evelyn Roberts, creators of 4D Biz, understand that very well. 4D Biz is essentially a virtual team for interior designers, providing the strategy, the marketing, the admin, and even design support at the level you need for your business. Learn how their set up supports designers and why a virtual team might be right for you!

LuAnn Nigara, Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino's Ah-Ha Moments

“The business can suck the soul out of you if you are overworked, if you are not getting the money that you deserve and you are just putting in endless hours and you're not feeling it in your bank account.” -Shayna

“This new way of doing business is I'm all about it because every single person that works for me has a skill set in an expertise that has been identified as their superpower.” -LuAnn

More About Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino

About Shayna: Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner. After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard. In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. She is most inspired by what other people see as problems.

About Evelyn: Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers. Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results. She helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget.

Connect with Evelyn Roberts & Shayna Pellino

Website

Facebook

Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors

Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4404 no 922: Cory Simon: The Secret to a Successful Interior Design Side Hustle http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/922-cory-simon-the-secret-to-a-successful-interior-design-side-hustle Today With Cory Simon: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. There are many designers out there looking to grow and scale their businesses, whether they’re coming in from a different career or launching their own firm. But what if you are working your business as a side hustle—and you actually want to keep it that way? That’s the situation for my guest today, Cory Simon of 290 Eliot Interiors. She’s working a full-time job, keeping a healthy business on the side, and spending time with her family—all within the same 24 hours a day we all have! You might be wondering how that’s possible—and the answer comes down to efficiency. This is a must-listen if you are juggling your interior design job as a side hustle, or if you simply want to work less hours and get more done! LuAnn Nigara and Cory Simon's Ah-Ha Moments “There is an emotional element that it is an emotional roller coaster and you're excited and you're frustrated. And every time you turn a corner people want more money. And so I think sometimes we have to really remember the emotional aspect of a renovation because people aren't just saying things, to say things. They're on an emotional journey, as well as kind of the physical journey of their home.” -Cory “If we could just understand that the job that you say yes to that you know doesn't have the right budget is probably going to take you longer to do and you will actually earn less money at the end when you do the autopsy if you are present enough to do the autopsy of the project. And if you had just said no, you would have either put more energy into a current project and made it that much better or had the time available for a new client to come through the door. But saying yes to the wrong things is rarely a good idea.” -LuAnn More About Cory Simon Cory Simon found her love of interior design through merchandising retail stores for over 15 years. She took her years of experience in space planning, using color and texture, and her ability to focus on the details to bring a space to life and started applying it to residential design. Starting with her own homes, varying in style and layout, along with planning and consulting on projects with friends and family, Cory loves finding the potential in every space to create something that you will reflect your personal style. Her experience in design, planning, and project management will help translate your goals into a reality. Connect with Cory Simon Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 541 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions  #909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss   #913 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth Tue, 17 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Cory Simon: The Secret to a Successful Interior Design Side Hustle full 922 LuAnn Nigara Today With Cory Simon: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. There are many designers out there looking to grow and scale their businesses, whether they’re coming in from a different career or launching their own firm. But what if you are working... Today With Cory Simon: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. There are many designers out there looking to grow and scale their businesses, whether they’re coming in from a different career or launching their own firm. But what if you are working your business as a side hustle—and you actually want to keep it that way? That’s the situation for my guest today, Cory Simon of 290 Eliot Interiors. She’s working a full-time job, keeping a healthy business on the side, and spending time with her family—all within the same 24 hours a day we all have! You might be wondering how that’s possible—and the answer comes down to efficiency. This is a must-listen if you are juggling your interior design job as a side hustle, or if you simply want to work less hours and get more done! LuAnn Nigara and Cory Simon's Ah-Ha Moments “There is an emotional element that it is an emotional roller coaster and you're excited and you're frustrated. And every time you turn a corner people want more money. And so I think sometimes we have to really remember the emotional aspect of a renovation because people aren't just saying things, to say things. They're on an emotional journey, as well as kind of the physical journey of their home.” -Cory “If we could just understand that the job that you say yes to that you know doesn't have the right budget is probably going to take you longer to do and you will actually earn less money at the end when you do the autopsy if you are present enough to do the autopsy of the project. And if you had just said no, you would have either put more energy into a current project and made it that much better or had the time available for a new client to come through the door. But saying yes to the wrong things is rarely a good idea.” -LuAnn More About Cory Simon Cory Simon found her love of interior design through merchandising retail stores for over 15 years. She took her years of experience in space planning, using color and texture, and her ability to focus on the details to bring a space to life and started applying it to residential design. Starting with her own homes, varying in style and layout, along with planning and consulting on projects with friends and family, Cory loves finding the potential in every space to create something that you will reflect your personal style. Her experience in design, planning, and project management will help translate your goals into a reality. Connect with Cory Simon Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 541 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions  #909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss   #913 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth Today With Cory Simon:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. There are many designers out there looking to grow and scale their businesses, whether they’re coming in from a different career or launching their own firm. But what if you are working your business as a side hustle—and you actually want to keep it that way? That’s the situation for my guest today, Cory Simon of 290 Eliot Interiors. She’s working a full-time job, keeping a healthy business on the side, and spending time with her family—all within the same 24 hours a day we all have! You might be wondering how that’s possible—and the answer comes down to efficiency. This is a must-listen if you are juggling your interior design job as a side hustle, or if you simply want to work less hours and get more done!

LuAnn Nigara and Cory Simon's Ah-Ha Moments

“There is an emotional element that it is an emotional roller coaster and you're excited and you're frustrated. And every time you turn a corner people want more money. And so I think sometimes we have to really remember the emotional aspect of a renovation because people aren't just saying things, to say things. They're on an emotional journey, as well as kind of the physical journey of their home.” -Cory

“If we could just understand that the job that you say yes to that you know doesn't have the right budget is probably going to take you longer to do and you will actually earn less money at the end when you do the autopsy if you are present enough to do the autopsy of the project. And if you had just said no, you would have either put more energy into a current project and made it that much better or had the time available for a new client to come through the door. But saying yes to the wrong things is rarely a good idea.” -LuAnn

More About Cory Simon

Cory Simon found her love of interior design through merchandising retail stores for over 15 years. She took her years of experience in space planning, using color and texture, and her ability to focus on the details to bring a space to life and started applying it to residential design. Starting with her own homes, varying in style and layout, along with planning and consulting on projects with friends and family, Cory loves finding the potential in every space to create something that you will reflect your personal style. Her experience in design, planning, and project management will help translate your goals into a reality.

Connect with Cory Simon

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: 541 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions 

#909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

 

#913 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth

]]> 4213 no 921: Power Talk Friday: Danielle Hendon: Managing Your Cash Flow: Make the Feast and Last Through Famine http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/921-power-talk-friday-danielle-hendon-managing-your-cash-flow-make-the-feast-and-last-through-famine Today With Danielle Hendon: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Danielle Hendon, owner of 4 Corners CFO. Don’t worry, Danielle is one of those CFO’s who explains money in an understandable way to us “non-finance” people. She shares her six-part framework she uses with her clients, to handling their finances. She and her team offer calculations, information, and tools in an understandable way so then you can do what you want to do with your business. Danielle has the technical knowledge and over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs, and she’s ready to spill the tea. Enjoy! Danielle Hendon's Ah-Ha Moment “Budget is just a plan forward for your business. We take everything we learned in the previous steps and build out a budget for the rest of the year,” Danielle Hendon More About Danielle Hendon Hi! I’m Danielle Hendon – wife, mom, and Virtual CFO to small business owners. I bring over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs. When my previous employer closed their doors and severed all the employees, I knew it was time to take my knowledge and passion to the people that needed it most. After helping that big business walk the path of bankruptcy until they were small… and eventually closed… I KNOW how to make big financial concepts fit small business. I started 4 Corners CFO to help business owners take a step back from the burnout, pay themselves what they’re worth, and focus on their joy and reason for serving their clients. This business has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the world because instead of helping big corporations increase share price, I get to help small business owners increase their livelihoods and legacies. And THAT is the best part of running this business <3 Connect with Danielle Hendon Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 13 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Danielle Hendon: Managing Your Cash Flow: Make the Feast and Last Through Famine full 921 LuAnn Nigara Today With Danielle Hendon: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Danielle Hendon, owner of 4 Corners CFO. Don’t worry, Danielle is one of those CFO’s who explains money in an understandable way to us “non-finance” people. She... Today With Danielle Hendon: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Danielle Hendon, owner of 4 Corners CFO. Don’t worry, Danielle is one of those CFO’s who explains money in an understandable way to us “non-finance” people. She shares her six-part framework she uses with her clients, to handling their finances. She and her team offer calculations, information, and tools in an understandable way so then you can do what you want to do with your business. Danielle has the technical knowledge and over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs, and she’s ready to spill the tea. Enjoy! Danielle Hendon's Ah-Ha Moment “Budget is just a plan forward for your business. We take everything we learned in the previous steps and build out a budget for the rest of the year,” Danielle Hendon More About Danielle Hendon Hi! I’m Danielle Hendon – wife, mom, and Virtual CFO to small business owners. I bring over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs. When my previous employer closed their doors and severed all the employees, I knew it was time to take my knowledge and passion to the people that needed it most. After helping that big business walk the path of bankruptcy until they were small… and eventually closed… I KNOW how to make big financial concepts fit small business. I started 4 Corners CFO to help business owners take a step back from the burnout, pay themselves what they’re worth, and focus on their joy and reason for serving their clients. This business has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the world because instead of helping big corporations increase share price, I get to help small business owners increase their livelihoods and legacies. And THAT is the best part of running this business <3 Connect with Danielle Hendon Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Danielle Hendon:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Danielle Hendon, owner of 4 Corners CFO. Don’t worry, Danielle is one of those CFO’s who explains money in an understandable way to us “non-finance” people. She shares her six-part framework she uses with her clients, to handling their finances. She and her team offer calculations, information, and tools in an understandable way so then you can do what you want to do with your business. Danielle has the technical knowledge and over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs, and she’s ready to spill the tea. Enjoy!

Danielle Hendon's Ah-Ha Moment

“Budget is just a plan forward for your business. We take everything we learned in the previous steps and build out a budget for the rest of the year,” Danielle Hendon

More About Danielle Hendon

Hi! I’m Danielle Hendon – wife, mom, and Virtual CFO to small business owners.

I bring over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs.

When my previous employer closed their doors and severed all the employees, I knew it was time to take my knowledge and passion to the people that needed it most. After helping that big business walk the path of bankruptcy until they were small… and eventually closed… I KNOW how to make big financial concepts fit small business. I started 4 Corners CFO to help business owners take a step back from the burnout, pay themselves what they’re worth, and focus on their joy and reason for serving their clients. This business has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the world because instead of helping big corporations increase share price, I get to help small business owners increase their livelihoods and legacies. And THAT is the best part of running this business <3

Connect with Danielle Hendon

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3449 no 920: Kate Figler: Begin Where You Mean To Go: Secrets & Risks of Accelerated Business Growth http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/920-kate-figler-begin-where-you-mean-to-go-secrets-risks-of-accelerated-business-growth Today With Kate Figler: A Well-Designed Business. Today I have with me Kate Figler, of Kate Figler Interiors. After moving her firm from the northeast to Nashville, Kate exponentially rebuilt and expanded her clientele and became a well-established design name. Kate has this motto that I was excited to dive into with her that can hint: increase your success and profitability. Listen, to my chat with Kate on the beneficial meaning of “Begin Where You Mean To Go.” Pick It Apart [1:51] Kate explains what she means by “Begin as you mean to go.” [13:55] How Kate developed her processes and procedures off the bat. [18:00] Kate’s advice in handling client onboarding. [29:55] Explaining to the client that things may happen, but giving them comfort that you are prepared for anything and in control. [37:40] Make sure your clients know that you respect the trades. [40:35] Kate explains her philosophy on chasing opportunities. LuAnn Nigara and Kate Figler's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of people feel intimidated by the business aspect of this industry. Don’t be. You can learn it. There are millions of people out there you can reach out to. And if it isn’t making sense to you from one person, you can call someone else. Keep going until it makes sense to you.” - Kate Figler “Begin where you mean to go to means that getting it done ahead of time ensures that you’re ready for when the train starts to go,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kate Figler Kate Figler is a Nashville-based designer who specializes in layered and timeless interiors that speak to her clients’ unique personalities and taste. A lover of color and pattern, Kate strives to create spaces that mix luxurious fabrics, natural textures, and both traditional and contemporary elements.  A graduate of Georgetown and Columbia Universities, Kate originally pursued a career in elementary education as a kindergarten teacher. However, after several back-to-back moves, she discovered her passion for renovating and decorating homes. As a mother of three children, she understands the importance of merging beautiful design with functionality — a practice she believes defines her approach. Kate comes from a long line of family-run businesses, and her years spent working in her mother’s restaurant instilled the responsibility she feels to her clients and their overall experience. She commits fully to her projects, striving to make them fun, efficient and collaborative. While born and raised in New England, Kate’s relocation to Nashville helped distinguish her style and aesthetic. Her rooms blend both the charm of the Northeast and the tradition of the South. You’ll see a mix of elegant antiques, gorgeous textiles, and fresh interpretations of classic designs that all work together to make her rooms one of a kind. Kate’s work has been seen in Nashville Lifestyles magazine where she was named one of Nashville’s “Up and Coming Designers” in 2021. Connect with Kate Figler Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #2: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy   #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm   #450: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design   #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!   #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems   #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”   #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business   #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation   #845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating   #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers   #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers Tue, 10 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Kate Figler: Begin Where You Mean To Go: Secrets & Risks of Accelerated Business Growth full 920 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate Figler: A Well-Designed Business. Today I have with me Kate Figler, of Kate Figler Interiors. After moving her firm from the northeast to Nashville, Kate exponentially rebuilt and expanded her clientele and became a well-established... Today With Kate Figler: A Well-Designed Business. Today I have with me Kate Figler, of Kate Figler Interiors. After moving her firm from the northeast to Nashville, Kate exponentially rebuilt and expanded her clientele and became a well-established design name. Kate has this motto that I was excited to dive into with her that can hint: increase your success and profitability. Listen, to my chat with Kate on the beneficial meaning of “Begin Where You Mean To Go.” Pick It Apart [1:51] Kate explains what she means by “Begin as you mean to go.” [13:55] How Kate developed her processes and procedures off the bat. [18:00] Kate’s advice in handling client onboarding. [29:55] Explaining to the client that things may happen, but giving them comfort that you are prepared for anything and in control. [37:40] Make sure your clients know that you respect the trades. [40:35] Kate explains her philosophy on chasing opportunities. LuAnn Nigara and Kate Figler's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of people feel intimidated by the business aspect of this industry. Don’t be. You can learn it. There are millions of people out there you can reach out to. And if it isn’t making sense to you from one person, you can call someone else. Keep going until it makes sense to you.” - Kate Figler “Begin where you mean to go to means that getting it done ahead of time ensures that you’re ready for when the train starts to go,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kate Figler Kate Figler is a Nashville-based designer who specializes in layered and timeless interiors that speak to her clients’ unique personalities and taste. A lover of color and pattern, Kate strives to create spaces that mix luxurious fabrics, natural textures, and both traditional and contemporary elements.  A graduate of Georgetown and Columbia Universities, Kate originally pursued a career in elementary education as a kindergarten teacher. However, after several back-to-back moves, she discovered her passion for renovating and decorating homes. As a mother of three children, she understands the importance of merging beautiful design with functionality — a practice she believes defines her approach. Kate comes from a long line of family-run businesses, and her years spent working in her mother’s restaurant instilled the responsibility she feels to her clients and their overall experience. She commits fully to her projects, striving to make them fun, efficient and collaborative. While born and raised in New England, Kate’s relocation to Nashville helped distinguish her style and aesthetic. Her rooms blend both the charm of the Northeast and the tradition of the South. You’ll see a mix of elegant antiques, gorgeous textiles, and fresh interpretations of classic designs that all work together to make her rooms one of a kind. Kate’s work has been seen in Nashville Lifestyles magazine where she was named one of Nashville’s “Up and Coming Designers” in 2021. Connect with Kate Figler Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #2: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy   #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm   #450: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design   #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!   #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems   #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”   #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business   #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation   #845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating   #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers   #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers A Well-Designed Business. Today I have with me Kate Figler, of Kate Figler Interiors. After moving her firm from the northeast to Nashville, Kate exponentially rebuilt and expanded her clientele and became a well-established design name. Kate has this motto that I was excited to dive into with her that can hint: increase your success and profitability.

Listen, to my chat with Kate on the beneficial meaning of “Begin Where You Mean To Go.”

Pick It Apart

[1:51] Kate explains what she means by “Begin as you mean to go.”

[13:55] How Kate developed her processes and procedures off the bat.

[18:00] Kate’s advice in handling client onboarding.

[29:55] Explaining to the client that things may happen, but giving them comfort that you are prepared for anything and in control.

[37:40] Make sure your clients know that you respect the trades.

[40:35] Kate explains her philosophy on chasing opportunities.

LuAnn Nigara and Kate Figler's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of people feel intimidated by the business aspect of this industry. Don’t be. You can learn it. There are millions of people out there you can reach out to. And if it isn’t making sense to you from one person, you can call someone else. Keep going until it makes sense to you.” - Kate Figler “Begin where you mean to go to means that getting it done ahead of time ensures that you’re ready for when the train starts to go,” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kate Figler

Kate Figler is a Nashville-based designer who specializes in layered and timeless interiors that speak to her clients’ unique personalities and taste. A lover of color and pattern, Kate strives to create spaces that mix luxurious fabrics, natural textures, and both traditional and contemporary elements.  A graduate of Georgetown and Columbia Universities, Kate originally pursued a career in elementary education as a kindergarten teacher. However, after several back-to-back moves, she discovered her passion for renovating and decorating homes. As a mother of three children, she understands the importance of merging beautiful design with functionality — a practice she believes defines her approach. Kate comes from a long line of family-run businesses, and her years spent working in her mother’s restaurant instilled the responsibility she feels to her clients and their overall experience. She commits fully to her projects, striving to make them fun, efficient and collaborative.

While born and raised in New England, Kate’s relocation to Nashville helped distinguish her style and aesthetic. Her rooms blend both the charm of the Northeast and the tradition of the South. You’ll see a mix of elegant antiques, gorgeous textiles, and fresh interpretations of classic designs that all work together to make her rooms one of a kind.

Kate’s work has been seen in Nashville Lifestyles magazine where she was named one of Nashville’s “Up and Coming Designers” in 2021.

Connect with Kate Figler

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#2: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

 

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

 

#450: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design

 

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

 

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

 

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

 

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

 

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

 

#845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

 

#861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

 

#895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

]]> 3974 no 919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/919-window-treatment-friday-sara-lynn-brennan-how-to-sell-window-treatments-in-your-full-service-interior-design-projects Today With Sara Lynn Brennan: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and the Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara shares her unique philosophy on how she incorporates window treatments into her design projects, and why she considers them to be essential for creating beautiful and functional spaces. LuAnn Nigara and Sara Lynn Brennan's Ah-Ha Moments “The idea behind full-service design is to take care of all the details and ensure that the space is fully completed and functional, so that everyone can enjoy it without feeling that there’s something else that needs to be done to it.” - LuAnn “Sara sets the expectations early on, from their marketing to their consultations, and all the way through the design process.” - LuAnn More About Sara Lynn Brennan She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Connect with Sara Lynn Brennan Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity   AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success   AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough   AWDB #607 Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Fri, 06 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects full 919 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sara Lynn Brennan: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and the Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara shares her unique philosophy on how she... Today With Sara Lynn Brennan: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and the Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara shares her unique philosophy on how she incorporates window treatments into her design projects, and why she considers them to be essential for creating beautiful and functional spaces. LuAnn Nigara and Sara Lynn Brennan's Ah-Ha Moments “The idea behind full-service design is to take care of all the details and ensure that the space is fully completed and functional, so that everyone can enjoy it without feeling that there’s something else that needs to be done to it.” - LuAnn “Sara sets the expectations early on, from their marketing to their consultations, and all the way through the design process.” - LuAnn More About Sara Lynn Brennan She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Connect with Sara Lynn Brennan Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity   AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success   AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough   AWDB #607 Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and the Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara shares her unique philosophy on how she incorporates window treatments into her design projects, and why she considers them to be essential for creating beautiful and functional spaces.

LuAnn Nigara and Sara Lynn Brennan's Ah-Ha Moments “The idea behind full-service design is to take care of all the details and ensure that the space is fully completed and functional, so that everyone can enjoy it without feeling that there’s something else that needs to be done to it.” - LuAnn “Sara sets the expectations early on, from their marketing to their consultations, and all the way through the design process.” - LuAnn More About Sara Lynn Brennan

She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.

Connect with Sara Lynn Brennan

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity

 

AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success

 

AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough

 

AWDB #607 Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

]]> 3153 no 918: Lorna Gross: Unlock Your Potential: Reimagine and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/918-lorna-gross-unlock-your-potential-reimagine-and-reinvent-yourself-over-and-over Today With Lorna Gross: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Lorna Gross, owner of Lorna Gross Interior Design. After finishing two business degrees and leading a very successful life in corporate America, Lorna ended up disappointed and unhappy. Even as successful as she was with winning awards and being up for a promotion. It was time for her to pivot. Lorna and I discuss the art of pivoting, how to recognize when you should, and how to confidently execute it. Pick It Apart [2:40] Lorna starts us off with her background and growing up. [8:00] Lorna talks about her journey to discover what she is supposed to be doing for a living. [19:30] The importance of taking the time go sit in silence with yourself. [28:50] Recognizing the signal of when people complement you or tell you you have a knack in something. [50:10] Lorna’s plans including her podcast, a streaming service, book, and more all in addition to her interior design firm. [51:30] Lorna expands on how everyone has different seasons in their lives. [58:40] The importance of asking yourself what YOU want. LuAnn Nigara and Lorna Gross's Ah-Ha Moments “I believe the universe does these things to us to get us to make a different move.” - Lorna Gross “I am believer that everything is for a season. The key is recognizing when that season is over.” - Lorna Gross  “You have to risk failure to get to the next thing you should be doing. Sometimes it will take you several times, sometimes it will take one time. As long as you’re not stuck in the season you shouldn’t be in.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Lorna Gross Currently based in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Lorna Gross’ Louisiana and New York roots inspired her signature blend of warmth and elegance. Her flourishing design firm, Lorna Gross Interior Design, creates homes that perfectly reflect those who dwell within. Equally comfortable hosting a five-course dinner on fine china or a raucous crawfish boil, Lorna is a consummate hostess and expert entertainer. She is adept at public speaking and easily draws in a crowd with her innate kindness and relatability. Connect with Lorna Gross Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower   881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss #189: Power Talk Friday – Jan Bowen: Cultivating Your Intuition is Smart for You & For Your Interior Design Business. Tue, 03 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Lorna Gross: Unlock Your Potential: Reimagine and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over full 918 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lorna Gross: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Lorna Gross, owner of Lorna Gross Interior Design. After finishing two business degrees and leading a very successful life in corporate America, Lorna ended up disappointed and... Today With Lorna Gross: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Lorna Gross, owner of Lorna Gross Interior Design. After finishing two business degrees and leading a very successful life in corporate America, Lorna ended up disappointed and unhappy. Even as successful as she was with winning awards and being up for a promotion. It was time for her to pivot. Lorna and I discuss the art of pivoting, how to recognize when you should, and how to confidently execute it. Pick It Apart [2:40] Lorna starts us off with her background and growing up. [8:00] Lorna talks about her journey to discover what she is supposed to be doing for a living. [19:30] The importance of taking the time go sit in silence with yourself. [28:50] Recognizing the signal of when people complement you or tell you you have a knack in something. [50:10] Lorna’s plans including her podcast, a streaming service, book, and more all in addition to her interior design firm. [51:30] Lorna expands on how everyone has different seasons in their lives. [58:40] The importance of asking yourself what YOU want. LuAnn Nigara and Lorna Gross's Ah-Ha Moments “I believe the universe does these things to us to get us to make a different move.” - Lorna Gross “I am believer that everything is for a season. The key is recognizing when that season is over.” - Lorna Gross  “You have to risk failure to get to the next thing you should be doing. Sometimes it will take you several times, sometimes it will take one time. As long as you’re not stuck in the season you shouldn’t be in.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Lorna Gross Currently based in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Lorna Gross’ Louisiana and New York roots inspired her signature blend of warmth and elegance. Her flourishing design firm, Lorna Gross Interior Design, creates homes that perfectly reflect those who dwell within. Equally comfortable hosting a five-course dinner on fine china or a raucous crawfish boil, Lorna is a consummate hostess and expert entertainer. She is adept at public speaking and easily draws in a crowd with her innate kindness and relatability. Connect with Lorna Gross Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower   881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss #189: Power Talk Friday – Jan Bowen: Cultivating Your Intuition is Smart for You & For Your Interior Design Business. Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Lorna Gross, owner of Lorna Gross Interior Design. After finishing two business degrees and leading a very successful life in corporate America, Lorna ended up disappointed and unhappy. Even as successful as she was with winning awards and being up for a promotion. It was time for her to pivot. Lorna and I discuss the art of pivoting, how to recognize when you should, and how to confidently execute it.

Pick It Apart [2:40] Lorna starts us off with her background and growing up. [8:00] Lorna talks about her journey to discover what she is supposed to be doing for a living. [19:30] The importance of taking the time go sit in silence with yourself. [28:50] Recognizing the signal of when people complement you or tell you you have a knack in something. [50:10] Lorna’s plans including her podcast, a streaming service, book, and more all in addition to her interior design firm. [51:30] Lorna expands on how everyone has different seasons in their lives. [58:40] The importance of asking yourself what YOU want. LuAnn Nigara and Lorna Gross's Ah-Ha Moments

“I believe the universe does these things to us to get us to make a different move.” - Lorna Gross

“I am believer that everything is for a season. The key is recognizing when that season is over.” - Lorna Gross 

“You have to risk failure to get to the next thing you should be doing. Sometimes it will take you several times, sometimes it will take one time. As long as you’re not stuck in the season you shouldn’t be in.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Lorna Gross

Currently based in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Lorna Gross’ Louisiana and New York roots inspired her signature blend of warmth and elegance. Her flourishing design firm, Lorna Gross Interior Design, creates homes that perfectly reflect those who dwell within. Equally comfortable hosting a five-course dinner on fine china or a raucous crawfish boil, Lorna is a consummate hostess and expert entertainer. She is adept at public speaking and easily draws in a crowd with her innate kindness and relatability.

Connect with Lorna Gross

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower

 

881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss #189: Power Talk Friday – Jan Bowen: Cultivating Your Intuition is Smart for You & For Your Interior Design Business. ]]> 4675 no 917: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: The Five Things All Successful People Do http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/917-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-the-five-things-all-successful-people-do Today With Fred Berns: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Fred Berns. Fred has been on the show many times, and I often refer to him when I talk about finding your Fred Berns Only. Knowing your “only” is essential. After working in the interior design industry as a business coach, speaker, and copywriter for 35 years, Fred has spent the past five years traveling the world. He visited 33 countries on four continents, and talked to business owners everywhere he went. Fred has studied the most successful business professionals across many industries around the globe, and he discovered they all share several traits. Today Fred is here to explain The Five Things these people have in common, along with actionable ways we can bring these habits into our own lives and businesses. Pick It Apart [04:07] Fred and LuAnn discuss the first habit: Focus, especially when it comes to your financial goals.  [08:57] Fred explains the second habit: Aim high. [14:48] Fred and LuAnn revisit the Fred Berns Only and how it relates to the third habit: The personal sale (or selling yourself). [18:50] Fred shares the details of his coach-call program, where he gives guidance on how to apply these five things to your career and your business.  [20:05] Fred and LuAnn talk about leaving money on the table and the importance of the fourth habit: Know the next step. [25:59] LuAnn and Fred discuss the fifth habit: Be Persistent LuAnn Nigara and Fred Berns's Ah-Ha Moments “What are the five things you need to do tomorrow? So that when you arrive at your office, or you start work the next day, you have a roadmap, you know what you're doing, you know what the day calls for.” – Fred Berns “Success leaves clues.” – Fred Berns “It's a matter of changing your focus from being afraid of not achieving your goal to figuring out how you can do it.” – Fred Berns “Think big. Aim high.” – LuAnn Nigara   “Your client wants you to take them by the hand and explain to them what we do next.” – Fred Berns   “Successful people reflect on what they did right, and what they need to learn from and do differently the next time.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Fred Berns Fred Berns has traveled the world in the five years since he retired from the interior design industry, and he’s learned a lot about small business success in the process.   “Success Shortcuts” has been a key topic of his conversations with entrepreneurs during his travels to 33 countries on four continents.   His international travels mark the latest chapter in a career that included more than 35 years as a business coach, copy writer and speaker in the interior design industry.   During that span, he trained design professionals on how to dramatically increase sales by promoting themselves more effectively. He spoke at design industry events around the world, and coached and wrote bios, website copy and other promotional materials for design professionals from Dallas to Dubai.   At the same time, he published a blog and newsletter that reached thousands of design professionals around the world, and he created a collection of books, videos and other business building resources for the interior design industry. Connect with Fred Berns Website Website X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #22: Fred Berns – How to Create a Killer Bio AWDB #48: Power Talk Friday with Fred Berns AWDB #96: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns – Selling Methods of the Masters AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #226: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns – 5 Keys to a Fabulous Fall AWDB # 289: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 7 Habits of Luxury Interior Designers AWDB #337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees AWDB #393: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 12 Ways Interior Designers Sabotage Their Business AWDB #460: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: How to Strengthen and Rekindle Client Relationships WTFP #196 Sara Lynn Brennan: Why Window Treatments are a Non-Negotiable in Our Interior Design Process Other Resources Mentioned: Freds' Coach Call is a one-hour personalized, customized consultation session in which I help design professionals apply The Five Things to their businesses and careers. The session can also include suggestions on how to upgrade and update their bios and website copy. Investment: $159.Details: Contact Fred Berns at FredTalks @gmail.com, or 303-589-3013. Fri, 29 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: The Five Things All Successful People Do full 917 LuAnn Nigara Today With Fred Berns: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Fred Berns. Fred has been on the show many times, and I often refer to him when I talk about finding your Fred Berns Only. Knowing your “only” is essential. After working in... Today With Fred Berns: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Fred Berns. Fred has been on the show many times, and I often refer to him when I talk about finding your Fred Berns Only. Knowing your “only” is essential. After working in the interior design industry as a business coach, speaker, and copywriter for 35 years, Fred has spent the past five years traveling the world. He visited 33 countries on four continents, and talked to business owners everywhere he went. Fred has studied the most successful business professionals across many industries around the globe, and he discovered they all share several traits. Today Fred is here to explain The Five Things these people have in common, along with actionable ways we can bring these habits into our own lives and businesses. Pick It Apart [04:07] Fred and LuAnn discuss the first habit: Focus, especially when it comes to your financial goals.  [08:57] Fred explains the second habit: Aim high. [14:48] Fred and LuAnn revisit the Fred Berns Only and how it relates to the third habit: The personal sale (or selling yourself). [18:50] Fred shares the details of his coach-call program, where he gives guidance on how to apply these five things to your career and your business.  [20:05] Fred and LuAnn talk about leaving money on the table and the importance of the fourth habit: Know the next step. [25:59] LuAnn and Fred discuss the fifth habit: Be Persistent LuAnn Nigara and Fred Berns's Ah-Ha Moments “What are the five things you need to do tomorrow? So that when you arrive at your office, or you start work the next day, you have a roadmap, you know what you're doing, you know what the day calls for.” – Fred Berns “Success leaves clues.” – Fred Berns “It's a matter of changing your focus from being afraid of not achieving your goal to figuring out how you can do it.” – Fred Berns “Think big. Aim high.” – LuAnn Nigara   “Your client wants you to take them by the hand and explain to them what we do next.” – Fred Berns   “Successful people reflect on what they did right, and what they need to learn from and do differently the next time.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Fred Berns Fred Berns has traveled the world in the five years since he retired from the interior design industry, and he’s learned a lot about small business success in the process.   “Success Shortcuts” has been a key topic of his conversations with entrepreneurs during his travels to 33 countries on four continents.   His international travels mark the latest chapter in a career that included more than 35 years as a business coach, copy writer and speaker in the interior design industry.   During that span, he trained design professionals on how to dramatically increase sales by promoting themselves more effectively. He spoke at design industry events around the world, and coached and wrote bios, website copy and other promotional materials for design professionals from Dallas to Dubai.   At the same time, he published a blog and newsletter that reached thousands of design professionals around the world, and he created a collection of books, videos and other business building resources for the interior design industry. Connect with Fred Berns Website Website X LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #22: Fred Berns – How to Create a Killer Bio AWDB #48: Power Talk Friday with Fred Berns AWDB #96: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns – Selling Methods of the Masters AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #226: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns – 5 Keys to a Fabulous Fall AWDB # 289: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 7 Habits of Luxury Interior Designers AWDB #337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees AWDB #393: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 12 Ways Interior Designers Sabotage Their Business AWDB #460: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: How to Strengthen and Rekindle Client Relationships WTFP #196 Sara Lynn Brennan: Why Window Treatments are a Non-Negotiable in Our Interior Design Process Other Resources Mentioned: Freds' Coach Call is a one-hour personalized, customized consultation session in which I help design professionals apply The Five Things to their businesses and careers. The session can also include suggestions on how to upgrade and update their bios and website copy. Investment: $159.Details: Contact Fred Berns at FredTalks @gmail.com, or 303-589-3013. Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Fred Berns. Fred has been on the show many times, and I often refer to him when I talk about finding your Fred Berns Only. Knowing your “only” is essential.

After working in the interior design industry as a business coach, speaker, and copywriter for 35 years, Fred has spent the past five years traveling the world. He visited 33 countries on four continents, and talked to business owners everywhere he went.

Fred has studied the most successful business professionals across many industries around the globe, and he discovered they all share several traits.

Today Fred is here to explain The Five Things these people have in common, along with actionable ways we can bring these habits into our own lives and businesses.

Pick It Apart

[04:07] Fred and LuAnn discuss the first habit: Focus, especially when it comes to your financial goals. 

[08:57] Fred explains the second habit: Aim high.

[14:48] Fred and LuAnn revisit the Fred Berns Only and how it relates to the third habit: The personal sale (or selling yourself).

[18:50] Fred shares the details of his coach-call program, where he gives guidance on how to apply these five things to your career and your business. 

[20:05] Fred and LuAnn talk about leaving money on the table and the importance of the fourth habit: Know the next step.

[25:59] LuAnn and Fred discuss the fifth habit: Be Persistent

LuAnn Nigara and Fred Berns's Ah-Ha Moments “What are the five things you need to do tomorrow? So that when you arrive at your office, or you start work the next day, you have a roadmap, you know what you're doing, you know what the day calls for.” – Fred Berns “Success leaves clues.” – Fred Berns “It's a matter of changing your focus from being afraid of not achieving your goal to figuring out how you can do it.” – Fred Berns “Think big. Aim high.” – LuAnn Nigara   “Your client wants you to take them by the hand and explain to them what we do next.” – Fred Berns   “Successful people reflect on what they did right, and what they need to learn from and do differently the next time.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Fred Berns

Fred Berns has traveled the world in the five years since he retired from the interior design industry, and he’s learned a lot about small business success in the process.

 

“Success Shortcuts” has been a key topic of his conversations with entrepreneurs during his travels to 33 countries on four continents.

 

His international travels mark the latest chapter in a career that included more than 35 years as a business coach, copy writer and speaker in the interior design industry.

 

During that span, he trained design professionals on how to dramatically increase sales by promoting themselves more effectively. He spoke at design industry events around the world, and coached and wrote bios, website copy and other promotional materials for design professionals from Dallas to Dubai.

 

At the same time, he published a blog and newsletter that reached thousands of design professionals around the world, and he created a collection of books, videos and other business building resources for the interior design industry.

Connect with Fred Berns

Website

Website

X

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #22: Fred Berns – How to Create a Killer Bio AWDB #48: Power Talk Friday with Fred Berns AWDB #96: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns – Selling Methods of the Masters AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #226: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns – 5 Keys to a Fabulous Fall AWDB # 289: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 7 Habits of Luxury Interior Designers AWDB #337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees AWDB #393: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 12 Ways Interior Designers Sabotage Their Business AWDB #460: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: How to Strengthen and Rekindle Client Relationships WTFP #196 Sara Lynn Brennan: Why Window Treatments are a Non-Negotiable in Our Interior Design Process Other Resources Mentioned:

Freds' Coach Call is a one-hour personalized, customized consultation session in which I help design professionals apply The Five Things to their businesses and careers.

The session can also include suggestions on how to upgrade and update their bios and website copy.

Investment: $159.Details: Contact Fred Berns at FredTalks @gmail.com, or 303-589-3013.

]]> 3008 no 916: Marilyn Watson-LaVergne: Clients Don’t Buy What We Do, They Buy What We Believe http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/916-marilyn-watson-lavergne-clients-dont-buy-what-we-do-they-buy-what-we-believe Today With Marilyn Watson-LaVergne: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Marilyn Watson-LaVergne. In her first career, Marilyn worked in marketing and public relations in New York City, witnessing the progression of branding for products and creative services, including interior design.  Now a seasoned designer and owner of Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, Marilyn is teaching us that we can’t be all the things to all the people—and what to do instead. It all starts with identifying what you believe and finding your point of differentiation, because clients don’t buy what we do. They buy what we believe.  Listen now to my chat with Marilyn to learn how to take this first step and where it will lead you. Pick It Apart [4:50] Marilyn explains the nuances and expertise that go into interior design. [10:11] Marilyn talks about how she became passionate about design and transitioned out of marketing to become a designer. [14:39] LuAnn and Marilyn discuss the impact a designer can have on their clients’ homes and lives, and what opportunities will bring the best outcomes. [21:01] Marilyn suggests once you find your “only,” narrow your focus and seek customers who need that specific trait. [27:35] Marilyn emphasizes that designers are not a commodity. [39:00] Marilyn and LuAnn discuss the challenges of working in a creative industry, but understanding that what you offer will solve a problem or create an opportunity for your clients will benefit you both. LuAnn Nigara and Marilyn Watson-LaVergne's Ah-Ha Moments “Clients don’t buy what we do, they buy what we believe.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne (quoting Simon Sinek)   “You have a specialized service [as a] designer. That means you have a specialized client.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “If we mean everything to everybody, then we actually mean nothing to anybody.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “You have something. You may not see it. And it might be because it's so close to what you do that you don’t realize how valuable it is.” – LuAnn Nigara   “You have to know that what you're offering is a solution to a really big problem or you're capturing an opportunity. But either way, you are leaving your client in a better position than they were before the two of you met.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne More About Marilyn Watson-LaVergne Marilyn designs residential and boutique commercial interiors for clients seeking to enjoy spaces that showcase their values and amplify their aspirations.  Her work features modern lines punched up with aesthetic elements from African, Asian, Middle Eastern and Indigenous cultures. She begins each project listening to understand clients’ vision, then collaborates to create exceptional living environments.  “Design is about my clients’ future,” Marilyn observes, “So, we aim to transform their highest dreams into living reality. We delivery original spaces filled with inspiration, comfort and pleasure.” Before design, Marilyn was a New York City publicist -- working, at times, in the interior design industry.  Later, she collaborated with architects coordinating façade improvements to downtown buildings.  She earned the Certificate of Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York.  Then opened Sepia Home, an interior design showroom and art gallery in Montclair, NJ.  Later she joined Cabinets to Go, a leading cabinetry retailer, where she designed 100’s of kitchens and bathrooms for clients in the greater New York City area. In 2019, She launched Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, a full-service interior design studio, to serve clients ready to step into living spaces that magnify their imagination! 10 Marilyn FACTS: 1.      She’s evangelical about collecting fine art 2.      Believes she smiles way too much 3.      Takes Comfort in candle light 4.      Holds intense disdain for fluorescent lighting 5.      Plays guitar, sings the blues … but is shy about performing 6.      Would kill for a private tour of Prince’s closet 7.      Thinks the word “amazing” is over-used 8.      Once hated Vegas so much she cried 9.      Loves her curls 10.  Adheres to a design principle that involves Diana Ross – ask her! Connect with Marilyn Watson-LaVergne Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Simon Sinek TED Talk Tue, 26 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 916: Marilyn Watson-LaVergne: Clients Don’t Buy What We Do, They Buy What We Believe full 916 LuAnn Nigara Today With Marilyn Watson-LaVergne: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Marilyn Watson-LaVergne. In her first career, Marilyn worked in marketing and public relations in New York City, witnessing the progression of branding for products and... Today With Marilyn Watson-LaVergne: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Marilyn Watson-LaVergne. In her first career, Marilyn worked in marketing and public relations in New York City, witnessing the progression of branding for products and creative services, including interior design.  Now a seasoned designer and owner of Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, Marilyn is teaching us that we can’t be all the things to all the people—and what to do instead. It all starts with identifying what you believe and finding your point of differentiation, because clients don’t buy what we do. They buy what we believe.  Listen now to my chat with Marilyn to learn how to take this first step and where it will lead you. Pick It Apart [4:50] Marilyn explains the nuances and expertise that go into interior design. [10:11] Marilyn talks about how she became passionate about design and transitioned out of marketing to become a designer. [14:39] LuAnn and Marilyn discuss the impact a designer can have on their clients’ homes and lives, and what opportunities will bring the best outcomes. [21:01] Marilyn suggests once you find your “only,” narrow your focus and seek customers who need that specific trait. [27:35] Marilyn emphasizes that designers are not a commodity. [39:00] Marilyn and LuAnn discuss the challenges of working in a creative industry, but understanding that what you offer will solve a problem or create an opportunity for your clients will benefit you both. LuAnn Nigara and Marilyn Watson-LaVergne's Ah-Ha Moments “Clients don’t buy what we do, they buy what we believe.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne (quoting Simon Sinek)   “You have a specialized service [as a] designer. That means you have a specialized client.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “If we mean everything to everybody, then we actually mean nothing to anybody.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “You have something. You may not see it. And it might be because it's so close to what you do that you don’t realize how valuable it is.” – LuAnn Nigara   “You have to know that what you're offering is a solution to a really big problem or you're capturing an opportunity. But either way, you are leaving your client in a better position than they were before the two of you met.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne More About Marilyn Watson-LaVergne Marilyn designs residential and boutique commercial interiors for clients seeking to enjoy spaces that showcase their values and amplify their aspirations.  Her work features modern lines punched up with aesthetic elements from African, Asian, Middle Eastern and Indigenous cultures. She begins each project listening to understand clients’ vision, then collaborates to create exceptional living environments.  “Design is about my clients’ future,” Marilyn observes, “So, we aim to transform their highest dreams into living reality. We delivery original spaces filled with inspiration, comfort and pleasure.” Before design, Marilyn was a New York City publicist -- working, at times, in the interior design industry.  Later, she collaborated with architects coordinating façade improvements to downtown buildings.  She earned the Certificate of Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York.  Then opened Sepia Home, an interior design showroom and art gallery in Montclair, NJ.  Later she joined Cabinets to Go, a leading cabinetry retailer, where she designed 100’s of kitchens and bathrooms for clients in the greater New York City area. In 2019, She launched Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, a full-service interior design studio, to serve clients ready to step into living spaces that magnify their imagination! 10 Marilyn FACTS: 1.      She’s evangelical about collecting fine art 2.      Believes she smiles way too much 3.      Takes Comfort in candle light 4.      Holds intense disdain for fluorescent lighting 5.      Plays guitar, sings the blues … but is shy about performing 6.      Would kill for a private tour of Prince’s closet 7.      Thinks the word “amazing” is over-used 8.      Once hated Vegas so much she cried 9.      Loves her curls 10.  Adheres to a design principle that involves Diana Ross – ask her! Connect with Marilyn Watson-LaVergne Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Simon Sinek TED Talk Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Marilyn Watson-LaVergne. In her first career, Marilyn worked in marketing and public relations in New York City, witnessing the progression of branding for products and creative services, including interior design.  Now a seasoned designer and owner of Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, Marilyn is teaching us that we can’t be all the things to all the people—and what to do instead. It all starts with identifying what you believe and finding your point of differentiation, because clients don’t buy what we do. They buy what we believe.  Listen now to my chat with Marilyn to learn how to take this first step and where it will lead you.

Pick It Apart

[4:50] Marilyn explains the nuances and expertise that go into interior design.

[10:11] Marilyn talks about how she became passionate about design and transitioned out of marketing to become a designer.

[14:39] LuAnn and Marilyn discuss the impact a designer can have on their clients’ homes and lives, and what opportunities will bring the best outcomes.

[21:01] Marilyn suggests once you find your “only,” narrow your focus and seek customers who need that specific trait.

[27:35] Marilyn emphasizes that designers are not a commodity.

[39:00] Marilyn and LuAnn discuss the challenges of working in a creative industry, but understanding that what you offer will solve a problem or create an opportunity for your clients will benefit you both.

LuAnn Nigara and Marilyn Watson-LaVergne's Ah-Ha Moments “Clients don’t buy what we do, they buy what we believe.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne (quoting Simon Sinek)   “You have a specialized service [as a] designer. That means you have a specialized client.” – Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “If we mean everything to everybody, then we actually mean nothing to anybody.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne   “You have something. You may not see it. And it might be because it's so close to what you do that you don’t realize how valuable it is.” – LuAnn Nigara   “You have to know that what you're offering is a solution to a really big problem or you're capturing an opportunity. But either way, you are leaving your client in a better position than they were before the two of you met.” - Marilyn Watson-LaVergne More About Marilyn Watson-LaVergne

Marilyn designs residential and boutique commercial interiors for clients seeking to enjoy spaces that showcase their values and amplify their aspirations.  Her work features modern lines punched up with aesthetic elements from African, Asian, Middle Eastern and Indigenous cultures. She begins each project listening to understand clients’ vision, then collaborates to create exceptional living environments.  “Design is about my clients’ future,” Marilyn observes, “So, we aim to transform their highest dreams into living reality. We delivery original spaces filled with inspiration, comfort and pleasure.” Before design, Marilyn was a New York City publicist -- working, at times, in the interior design industry.  Later, she collaborated with architects coordinating façade improvements to downtown buildings.  She earned the Certificate of Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York.  Then opened Sepia Home, an interior design showroom and art gallery in Montclair, NJ.  Later she joined Cabinets to Go, a leading cabinetry retailer, where she designed 100’s of kitchens and bathrooms for clients in the greater New York City area. In 2019, She launched Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, a full-service interior design studio, to serve clients ready to step into living spaces that magnify their imagination!

10 Marilyn FACTS: 1.      She’s evangelical about collecting fine art 2.      Believes she smiles way too much 3.      Takes Comfort in candle light 4.      Holds intense disdain for fluorescent lighting 5.      Plays guitar, sings the blues … but is shy about performing 6.      Would kill for a private tour of Prince’s closet 7.      Thinks the word “amazing” is over-used 8.      Once hated Vegas so much she cried 9.      Loves her curls 10.  Adheres to a design principle that involves Diana Ross – ask her!

Connect with Marilyn Watson-LaVergne

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

 

AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

AWDB #912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers

Other Resources Mentioned:

Simon Sinek TED Talk

]]> 3450 no 915: Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/915-power-talk-friday-masha-koyen-7-mistakes-interior-designers-make-on-their-website-messaging Today With Masha Koyen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.  Your website matters for so many reasons. It’s the gateway for how your clients get to know you, whether they trust you, and ultimately whether they ever contact you or not.  My guest today, Masha Koyen, understands the importance of web copy. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. She helps designers and builders level up their brand and create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience.  Masha has seen a lot of web copy—and specifically, a lot of mistakes that designers make with their websites. Today, she’s sharing the top 7 mistakes she sees—and what you can do to correct them. Pick It Apart [3:04] Masha and LuAnn discuss how important it is to create your copy with your audience in mind. [12:31] Masha talks about why having copy above the fold matters. [17:04] LuAnn and Masha discuss how to make your website stand out. [30:40] Masha shares why personalization in your web copy can make all the difference for your brand. [47:58] Masha highlights how to create strong CTAs in your web copy. LuAnn Nigara and Masha Koyen's Ah-Ha Moments “You want to humanize your brand a little bit, you want to inject that personal touch into your copy, so that people you know, because I don't think interior designers have a problem selling face to face.” -Masha More About Masha Koyen Masha Koyen is a Copywriter and Content Strategist for interior designers and builders that want to level up their brand, create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. Connect with Masha Koyen Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen   #626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design   #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals   #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Fri, 22 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging full 915 LuAnn Nigara Today With Masha Koyen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.  Your website matters for so many reasons. It’s the gateway for how your clients get to know you, whether they trust you, and ultimately whether they ever... Today With Masha Koyen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.  Your website matters for so many reasons. It’s the gateway for how your clients get to know you, whether they trust you, and ultimately whether they ever contact you or not.  My guest today, Masha Koyen, understands the importance of web copy. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. She helps designers and builders level up their brand and create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience.  Masha has seen a lot of web copy—and specifically, a lot of mistakes that designers make with their websites. Today, she’s sharing the top 7 mistakes she sees—and what you can do to correct them. Pick It Apart [3:04] Masha and LuAnn discuss how important it is to create your copy with your audience in mind. [12:31] Masha talks about why having copy above the fold matters. [17:04] LuAnn and Masha discuss how to make your website stand out. [30:40] Masha shares why personalization in your web copy can make all the difference for your brand. [47:58] Masha highlights how to create strong CTAs in your web copy. LuAnn Nigara and Masha Koyen's Ah-Ha Moments “You want to humanize your brand a little bit, you want to inject that personal touch into your copy, so that people you know, because I don't think interior designers have a problem selling face to face.” -Masha More About Masha Koyen Masha Koyen is a Copywriter and Content Strategist for interior designers and builders that want to level up their brand, create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. Connect with Masha Koyen Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen   #626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design   #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals   #811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.  Your website matters for so many reasons. It’s the gateway for how your clients get to know you, whether they trust you, and ultimately whether they ever contact you or not.  My guest today, Masha Koyen, understands the importance of web copy. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. She helps designers and builders level up their brand and create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience.  Masha has seen a lot of web copy—and specifically, a lot of mistakes that designers make with their websites. Today, she’s sharing the top 7 mistakes she sees—and what you can do to correct them.

Pick It Apart [3:04] Masha and LuAnn discuss how important it is to create your copy with your audience in mind. [12:31] Masha talks about why having copy above the fold matters. [17:04] LuAnn and Masha discuss how to make your website stand out. [30:40] Masha shares why personalization in your web copy can make all the difference for your brand. [47:58] Masha highlights how to create strong CTAs in your web copy. LuAnn Nigara and Masha Koyen's Ah-Ha Moments “You want to humanize your brand a little bit, you want to inject that personal touch into your copy, so that people you know, because I don't think interior designers have a problem selling face to face.” -Masha More About Masha Koyen

Masha Koyen is a Copywriter and Content Strategist for interior designers and builders that want to level up their brand, create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry.

Connect with Masha Koyen

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

 

#626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

 

#760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals

 

#811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 3853 no 914: Maria Leigh Palantino: Giving Yourself Permission to Launch an Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/914-maria-leigh-palantino-giving-yourself-permission-to-launch-an-interior-design-business Today With Maria Palantino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Maria Leigh Palantino, came into the interior design industry as her second career. She started a career in fashion design then pivoted, and brought with her many skills from her fashion career that guide her philosophies, design style, and the way she cultivates a memorable experience for her clients.  For Maria, it wasn’t just about being scared to take the plunge to start a new career. The real challenge was giving herself permission to leave behind not just her expertise but something she had worked so hard for and trust herself to build something new. Today, she’s sharing how she overcame that challenge and created a thriving interior design business. Pick It Apart [4:43] Maria shares how she decided it was time to take the leap to become an interior designer.   [9:30] Maria and LuAnn discuss how hard it can be to give yourself permission to change careers.   [24:46] Maria discusses how delegating early in her business created value and allowed her to reach greater heights.   [33:41] Maria shares how she weaves her fashion design experience into her interior design business. LuAnn Nigara and Maria Palantino's Ah-Ha Moments “The path and life which you're presented with or the career path or the profession that you dedicate your life to, isn't always where you will end up, and that's okay. In the end, it truly will work out—whatever your passion is.” -Maria “It does seem like a significant process to actually ultimately give yourself permission to walk away from one race to another.” -LuAnn More About Maria Palantino Homebodi Designs was born as Maria transitioned out of the fashion design industry and navigated through COVID-19 spending lots of time at home. It was during that time that she became a true “homebodi” and noticed the importance of being happy with the design of your home and spending time with the ones you love. Maria's background in fashion design and working within the industry over the past five years provided her with a seamless transition as she decided to enter into the world of interior design. The principles learned from the industry created a firm foundation for her newest venture and her own business. It has given her a new found passion for design and a new identity as a designer. Connect with Maria Palantino Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy 06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward 174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours 267: Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years 291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design   707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 19 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Maria Leigh Palantino: Giving Yourself Permission to Launch an Interior Design Business full 914 LuAnn Nigara Today With Maria Palantino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Maria Leigh Palantino, came into the interior design industry as her second career. She started a career in fashion design then pivoted, and brought with her many... Today With Maria Palantino: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Maria Leigh Palantino, came into the interior design industry as her second career. She started a career in fashion design then pivoted, and brought with her many skills from her fashion career that guide her philosophies, design style, and the way she cultivates a memorable experience for her clients.  For Maria, it wasn’t just about being scared to take the plunge to start a new career. The real challenge was giving herself permission to leave behind not just her expertise but something she had worked so hard for and trust herself to build something new. Today, she’s sharing how she overcame that challenge and created a thriving interior design business. Pick It Apart [4:43] Maria shares how she decided it was time to take the leap to become an interior designer.   [9:30] Maria and LuAnn discuss how hard it can be to give yourself permission to change careers.   [24:46] Maria discusses how delegating early in her business created value and allowed her to reach greater heights.   [33:41] Maria shares how she weaves her fashion design experience into her interior design business. LuAnn Nigara and Maria Palantino's Ah-Ha Moments “The path and life which you're presented with or the career path or the profession that you dedicate your life to, isn't always where you will end up, and that's okay. In the end, it truly will work out—whatever your passion is.” -Maria “It does seem like a significant process to actually ultimately give yourself permission to walk away from one race to another.” -LuAnn More About Maria Palantino Homebodi Designs was born as Maria transitioned out of the fashion design industry and navigated through COVID-19 spending lots of time at home. It was during that time that she became a true “homebodi” and noticed the importance of being happy with the design of your home and spending time with the ones you love. Maria's background in fashion design and working within the industry over the past five years provided her with a seamless transition as she decided to enter into the world of interior design. The principles learned from the industry created a firm foundation for her newest venture and her own business. It has given her a new found passion for design and a new identity as a designer. Connect with Maria Palantino Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy 06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward 174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours 267: Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years 291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design   707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Maria Leigh Palantino, came into the interior design industry as her second career. She started a career in fashion design then pivoted, and brought with her many skills from her fashion career that guide her philosophies, design style, and the way she cultivates a memorable experience for her clients. 

For Maria, it wasn’t just about being scared to take the plunge to start a new career. The real challenge was giving herself permission to leave behind not just her expertise but something she had worked so hard for and trust herself to build something new. Today, she’s sharing how she overcame that challenge and created a thriving interior design business.

Pick It Apart

[4:43] Maria shares how she decided it was time to take the leap to become an interior designer.

 

[9:30] Maria and LuAnn discuss how hard it can be to give yourself permission to change careers.

 

[24:46] Maria discusses how delegating early in her business created value and allowed her to reach greater heights.

 

[33:41] Maria shares how she weaves her fashion design experience into her interior design business.

LuAnn Nigara and Maria Palantino's Ah-Ha Moments

“The path and life which you're presented with or the career path or the profession that you dedicate your life to, isn't always where you will end up, and that's okay. In the end, it truly will work out—whatever your passion is.” -Maria

“It does seem like a significant process to actually ultimately give yourself permission to walk away from one race to another.” -LuAnn

More About Maria Palantino

Homebodi Designs was born as Maria transitioned out of the fashion design industry and navigated through COVID-19 spending lots of time at home. It was during that time that she became a true “homebodi” and noticed the importance of being happy with the design of your home and spending time with the ones you love.

Maria's background in fashion design and working within the industry over the past five years provided her with a seamless transition as she decided to enter into the world of interior design. The principles learned from the industry created a firm foundation for her newest venture and her own business. It has given her a new found passion for design and a new identity as a designer.

Connect with Maria Palantino

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

06: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward 174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours 267: Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years 291: Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

 

707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3581 no 913: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/913-power-talk-friday-terri-taylor-the-importance-of-money-mindset-in-charging-your-worth Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m excited to welcome back Terri Taylor, creator of the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success. Today, she is giving us an inside look at her upcoming Design Biz Summit—a 3-day event to help designers shake their mindset breaks and develop the skills to know their worth, charge it, and deliver on it. She’s also sharing her insights on the importance of having the right money mindset—and what you can do to stop undervaluing and undercharging. Pick It Apart [1:03] Terri discusses how our money mindset forms when we are children and impacts the way we function in our business. [3:11] Terri talks about the money mindset of the luxury client. [18:30] Terri and LuAnn talk about the importance of learning both mindset and skills. [29:29] Terri breaks down why you need to be able to create budgets for your client. [47:43] Terri discusses the Design Biz Summit and what you can get if you sign up today. LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments “I realized quickly that if you didn’t shift your mindset about what you thought was possible, all the checklists and contracts and lists and scripts we develop to make it easier are no good because you don’t believe it can happen.” -Terri   “You can’t attract what you resent.” -Terri   “It's interesting, because successful super uber-successful people do have similar characteristics and traits, in the way they run and manage their entire lives, to your point of making time for creativity, making time, for space for travel, for all of that stuff, they are not necessarily working 90 hours a week, right? They understand when to work, when to create when to you know, dream, when to take care of themselves, when to do all the things.” -LuAnn More About Terri Taylor Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth. Terri has more than 30 years experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events.   She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth.   As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week.   In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.   Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business.   Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve.   Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability  - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website Instagram  Blog Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets   #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit   #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy   #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021   #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth   #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go?   #829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It!   #865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel Fri, 15 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth full 913 LuAnn Nigara Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m excited to welcome back Terri Taylor, creator of the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix... Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m excited to welcome back Terri Taylor, creator of the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success. Today, she is giving us an inside look at her upcoming Design Biz Summit—a 3-day event to help designers shake their mindset breaks and develop the skills to know their worth, charge it, and deliver on it. She’s also sharing her insights on the importance of having the right money mindset—and what you can do to stop undervaluing and undercharging. Pick It Apart [1:03] Terri discusses how our money mindset forms when we are children and impacts the way we function in our business. [3:11] Terri talks about the money mindset of the luxury client. [18:30] Terri and LuAnn talk about the importance of learning both mindset and skills. [29:29] Terri breaks down why you need to be able to create budgets for your client. [47:43] Terri discusses the Design Biz Summit and what you can get if you sign up today. LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments “I realized quickly that if you didn’t shift your mindset about what you thought was possible, all the checklists and contracts and lists and scripts we develop to make it easier are no good because you don’t believe it can happen.” -Terri   “You can’t attract what you resent.” -Terri   “It's interesting, because successful super uber-successful people do have similar characteristics and traits, in the way they run and manage their entire lives, to your point of making time for creativity, making time, for space for travel, for all of that stuff, they are not necessarily working 90 hours a week, right? They understand when to work, when to create when to you know, dream, when to take care of themselves, when to do all the things.” -LuAnn More About Terri Taylor Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth. Terri has more than 30 years experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events.   She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth.   As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week.   In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.   Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business.   Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve.   Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability  - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website Instagram  Blog Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets   #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit   #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy   #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021   #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth   #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go?   #829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It!   #865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel Today With Terri Taylor:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m excited to welcome back Terri Taylor, creator of the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.

Today, she is giving us an inside look at her upcoming Design Biz Summit—a 3-day event to help designers shake their mindset breaks and develop the skills to know their worth, charge it, and deliver on it. She’s also sharing her insights on the importance of having the right money mindset—and what you can do to stop undervaluing and undercharging.

Pick It Apart

[1:03] Terri discusses how our money mindset forms when we are children and impacts the way we function in our business.

[3:11] Terri talks about the money mindset of the luxury client.

[18:30] Terri and LuAnn talk about the importance of learning both mindset and skills.

[29:29] Terri breaks down why you need to be able to create budgets for your client.

[47:43] Terri discusses the Design Biz Summit and what you can get if you sign up today.

LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments

“I realized quickly that if you didn’t shift your mindset about what you thought was possible, all the checklists and contracts and lists and scripts we develop to make it easier are no good because you don’t believe it can happen.” -Terri

 

“You can’t attract what you resent.” -Terri

 

“It's interesting, because successful super uber-successful people do have similar characteristics and traits, in the way they run and manage their entire lives, to your point of making time for creativity, making time, for space for travel, for all of that stuff, they are not necessarily working 90 hours a week, right? They understand when to work, when to create when to you know, dream, when to take care of themselves, when to do all the things.” -LuAnn

More About Terri Taylor

Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth.

Terri has more than 30 years experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events.

 

She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth.

 

As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week.

 

In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.

 

Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business.

 

Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve.

 

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability  - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri Taylor

Website

Instagram 

Blog

Other Shows Mentioned:

#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

 

#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit

 

#662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy

 

#710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

 

#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth

 

#813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go?

 

#829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It!

 

#865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel

]]> 3952 no 912: Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/912-jessica-bantom-continued-take-action-with-the-six-habits-of-culturally-competent-designers Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, color consultant, and DEIB practitioner. This is Part Two of our conversation on how to become a culturally competent designer, and we are going even deeper.  In this conversation, Jessica walks us through the six habits of a culturally competent designer—the same habits outlined in her new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. Listen now to learn more about each of these habits and how you can incorporate them into your routine and be a part of this phenomenal shift in the industry. Pick It Apart [1:58] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the first habit of culturally competent designers: Take accountability, especially during the design process and through inclusive leadership. [10:25] Jessica explains the second habit: Ask questions. She says this step is about creating a space for conversation, which should be established at the beginning of a project. [17:58] LuAnn asks Jessica about the third habit: Seek knowledge. [25:26] Jessica shares that the majority of her book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, is about the critical fourth habit: Talk to customers. [34:44] LuAnn and Jessica expand on the fifth habit: Believe people, and why this habit should not be overlooked. [41:00] Jessica explains the sixth and final habit: Share experience, saying that culturally competent designers need to set the tone, create the space, and model the behavior of sharing experience. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments “All of us need to adopt these habits. So that there is no one outlier in the team or in the organization that is the one speaking up. It becomes a normal part of conversation. And when a point is raised, it can be something that can be can be discussed more broadly.” – Jessica Bantom “The entire culture of the company has to be a place where you allow people to express their points of view.” – LuAnn Nigara “When it comes to identity, and representing cultures and identity, and it's in an authentic way, that does require getting other viewpoints and perspectives..” – Jessica Bantom “There is this expectation that we can't start talking about difference until we bring people of different backgrounds into the organization. That is not true. Because, like we said, there is information available and accessible to of us. And it is also not the responsibility of those people to come into a firm and educate their peers.” – Jessica Bantom   “We have to be willing to engage with customers, because we are the experts on design, but they are the experts on themselves.” – Jessica Bantom   “These are principles, these are ideas, these are things that we should be doing to be better humans. However, if that's not enough to get your mojo going, understand this is your business. Your business is going to dramatically change over the next five-to-ten-to-fifteen years.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jessica Bantom Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy. Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.   Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Connect with Jessica Bantom Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level   AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity AWDB #720: Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche  AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) Tue, 12 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers full 912 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, color consultant, and DEIB practitioner. This is Part Two of our conversation on how to become a culturally competent designer, and we... Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, color consultant, and DEIB practitioner. This is Part Two of our conversation on how to become a culturally competent designer, and we are going even deeper.  In this conversation, Jessica walks us through the six habits of a culturally competent designer—the same habits outlined in her new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. Listen now to learn more about each of these habits and how you can incorporate them into your routine and be a part of this phenomenal shift in the industry. Pick It Apart [1:58] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the first habit of culturally competent designers: Take accountability, especially during the design process and through inclusive leadership. [10:25] Jessica explains the second habit: Ask questions. She says this step is about creating a space for conversation, which should be established at the beginning of a project. [17:58] LuAnn asks Jessica about the third habit: Seek knowledge. [25:26] Jessica shares that the majority of her book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, is about the critical fourth habit: Talk to customers. [34:44] LuAnn and Jessica expand on the fifth habit: Believe people, and why this habit should not be overlooked. [41:00] Jessica explains the sixth and final habit: Share experience, saying that culturally competent designers need to set the tone, create the space, and model the behavior of sharing experience. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments “All of us need to adopt these habits. So that there is no one outlier in the team or in the organization that is the one speaking up. It becomes a normal part of conversation. And when a point is raised, it can be something that can be can be discussed more broadly.” – Jessica Bantom “The entire culture of the company has to be a place where you allow people to express their points of view.” – LuAnn Nigara “When it comes to identity, and representing cultures and identity, and it's in an authentic way, that does require getting other viewpoints and perspectives..” – Jessica Bantom “There is this expectation that we can't start talking about difference until we bring people of different backgrounds into the organization. That is not true. Because, like we said, there is information available and accessible to of us. And it is also not the responsibility of those people to come into a firm and educate their peers.” – Jessica Bantom   “We have to be willing to engage with customers, because we are the experts on design, but they are the experts on themselves.” – Jessica Bantom   “These are principles, these are ideas, these are things that we should be doing to be better humans. However, if that's not enough to get your mojo going, understand this is your business. Your business is going to dramatically change over the next five-to-ten-to-fifteen years.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jessica Bantom Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy. Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.   Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Connect with Jessica Bantom Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level   AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity AWDB #720: Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche  AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1)

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, color consultant, and DEIB practitioner. This is Part Two of our conversation on how to become a culturally competent designer, and we are going even deeper. 

In this conversation, Jessica walks us through the six habits of a culturally competent designer—the same habits outlined in her new book, Design for Identity: How to

Design Authentically for a Diverse World. Listen now to learn more about each of these habits and how you can incorporate them into your routine and be a part of this phenomenal shift in the industry.

Pick It Apart

[1:58] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the first habit of culturally competent designers: Take accountability, especially during the design process and through inclusive leadership.

[10:25] Jessica explains the second habit: Ask questions. She says this step is about creating a space for conversation, which should be established at the beginning of a project.

[17:58] LuAnn asks Jessica about the third habit: Seek knowledge.

[25:26] Jessica shares that the majority of her book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, is about the critical fourth habit: Talk to customers.

[34:44] LuAnn and Jessica expand on the fifth habit: Believe people, and why this habit should not be overlooked.

[41:00] Jessica explains the sixth and final habit: Share experience, saying that culturally competent designers need to set the tone, create the space, and model the behavior of sharing experience.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments

“All of us need to adopt these habits. So that there is no one outlier in the team or in the organization that is the one speaking up. It becomes a normal part of conversation. And when a point is raised, it can be something that can be can be discussed more broadly.” – Jessica Bantom

“The entire culture of the company has to be a place where you allow people to express their points of view.” – LuAnn Nigara

“When it comes to identity, and representing cultures and identity, and it's in an authentic way, that does require getting other viewpoints and perspectives..” – Jessica Bantom

“There is this expectation that we can't start talking about difference until we bring people of different backgrounds into the organization. That is not true. Because, like we said, there is information available and accessible to of us. And it is also not the responsibility of those people to come into a firm and educate their peers.” – Jessica Bantom

 

“We have to be willing to engage with customers, because we are the experts on design, but they are the experts on themselves.” – Jessica Bantom

 

“These are principles, these are ideas, these are things that we should be doing to be better humans. However, if that's not enough to get your mojo going, understand this is your business. Your business is going to dramatically change over the next five-to-ten-to-fifteen years.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jessica Bantom

Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy.

Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.   Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Connect with Jessica Bantom

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something AWDB #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level   AWDB #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity AWDB #720: Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche  AWDB #908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) ]]> 4365 no 911: Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/911-power-talk-friday-jenna-gaidusek-introducing-virtual-assistant-certification-by-mydoma-studio Today With Jenna Gaidusek: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Jenna Gaidusek, Director of Community and Education at Mydoma Studio. Jenna is a talented designer, founder of the Interior Design Playbook (formerly eDesign Tribe) Facebook community and creator of eDesign U, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry. Jenna doesn’t want you to go it alone as a designer, which is why she joined forces with Mydoma Studio and created the Virtual Assistant Certification program. Listen now to this sponsored episode for all the details about this amazing new resource available only through Mydoma. Pick It Apart   [3:07] Jenna explains what a virtual assistant is and how they help businesses. [4:47] LuAnn and Jenna discuss the need for virtual assistants, especially for designers, and why Jenna and Sarah Daniele from Mydoma partnered to create a certification program specifically within the Mydoma Studio platform. [11:00] LuAnn identifies the ideal candidates for this course. [14:41] Jenna explains what candidates need to do to get started in the certification program. [15:50] LuAnn asks Jenna about common tasks VA’s will complete and different ways they can collaborate with designers after this training in both the project management and rendering. [19:29] Jenna and LuAnn discuss the benefits of having a VA certified in Mydoma Studio, including access to Mydoma, training updates, and access to the community for a year. [28:11] Jenna explains how the week-long course is structured and how to apply.   LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek's Ah-Ha Moments   “Virtual assistants are basically like your right hand, man. They can help you streamline your process, take the things off your plate that you just don't enjoy doing, but they thrive on…[doing] the things that you don't love to do, and it makes a great partnership.” – Jenna Gaidusek   “There are people that might not be designers that are so perfect for this role as a VA that it just fits and it just clicks and we need you as designers to be our other half.” – Jenna Gaidusek   “‘This is a tremendous benefit, that if I recognize the value that Mydoma Studio can be to my business—to my back end, to my operations and my system, but I mentally don't have the capacity, whether it's actual intellectual capacity or physical capacity timewise…[Now there is] somebody that I can pay to put my projects in to get everything done.” – LuAnn Nigara   “I believe if you have an organized brain, we can teach this to you.” – Jenna Gaidusek   More About Jenna Gaidusek  Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City. She began sharing her work on social media, and other designers frequently reached out to her with questions. During this time, Jenna noticed a lack of information and resources available for eDesign, which was not yet a popular concept.  To meet this demand, Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook community, which quickly grew into a thriving platform for designers to connect and learn from one another (now called the Interior Design Playbook). With a continued need for education in the field of virtual design communication and business development, Jenna created eDesign U in 2018, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry. Jenna also recognized the need for a more user-friendly and affordable 3D rendering program and embeddable shopping list for designers. In response, she developed a cutting-edge platform that provided just that. This platform was quickly embraced by designers and became a game-changer in the industry. In 2022, Jenna's efforts and dedication to eDesign were rewarded when her eDesign Tribe community and all associated entities were acquired by Mydoma Studio. This acquisition provided designers with an unprecedented level of resources and support, allowing them to render their designs and manage their projects with ease. Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek   Website Virtual Assistant Certification Instagram  Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months!   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio Other Shows Mentioned: #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio   #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’s new for you at Mydoma Studio!   #375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business   #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design   #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation Fri, 08 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jenna Gaidusek: Introducing Virtual Assistant Certification by Mydoma Studio full 911 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jenna Gaidusek: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Jenna Gaidusek, Director of Community and Education at Mydoma Studio. Jenna is a talented designer, founder of the Interior Design Playbook (formerly eDesign Tribe)... Today With Jenna Gaidusek: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Jenna Gaidusek, Director of Community and Education at Mydoma Studio. Jenna is a talented designer, founder of the Interior Design Playbook (formerly eDesign Tribe) Facebook community and creator of eDesign U, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry. Jenna doesn’t want you to go it alone as a designer, which is why she joined forces with Mydoma Studio and created the Virtual Assistant Certification program. Listen now to this sponsored episode for all the details about this amazing new resource available only through Mydoma. Pick It Apart   [3:07] Jenna explains what a virtual assistant is and how they help businesses. [4:47] LuAnn and Jenna discuss the need for virtual assistants, especially for designers, and why Jenna and Sarah Daniele from Mydoma partnered to create a certification program specifically within the Mydoma Studio platform. [11:00] LuAnn identifies the ideal candidates for this course. [14:41] Jenna explains what candidates need to do to get started in the certification program. [15:50] LuAnn asks Jenna about common tasks VA’s will complete and different ways they can collaborate with designers after this training in both the project management and rendering. [19:29] Jenna and LuAnn discuss the benefits of having a VA certified in Mydoma Studio, including access to Mydoma, training updates, and access to the community for a year. [28:11] Jenna explains how the week-long course is structured and how to apply.   LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek's Ah-Ha Moments   “Virtual assistants are basically like your right hand, man. They can help you streamline your process, take the things off your plate that you just don't enjoy doing, but they thrive on…[doing] the things that you don't love to do, and it makes a great partnership.” – Jenna Gaidusek   “There are people that might not be designers that are so perfect for this role as a VA that it just fits and it just clicks and we need you as designers to be our other half.” – Jenna Gaidusek   “‘This is a tremendous benefit, that if I recognize the value that Mydoma Studio can be to my business—to my back end, to my operations and my system, but I mentally don't have the capacity, whether it's actual intellectual capacity or physical capacity timewise…[Now there is] somebody that I can pay to put my projects in to get everything done.” – LuAnn Nigara   “I believe if you have an organized brain, we can teach this to you.” – Jenna Gaidusek   More About Jenna Gaidusek  Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City. She began sharing her work on social media, and other designers frequently reached out to her with questions. During this time, Jenna noticed a lack of information and resources available for eDesign, which was not yet a popular concept.  To meet this demand, Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook community, which quickly grew into a thriving platform for designers to connect and learn from one another (now called the Interior Design Playbook). With a continued need for education in the field of virtual design communication and business development, Jenna created eDesign U in 2018, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry. Jenna also recognized the need for a more user-friendly and affordable 3D rendering program and embeddable shopping list for designers. In response, she developed a cutting-edge platform that provided just that. This platform was quickly embraced by designers and became a game-changer in the industry. In 2022, Jenna's efforts and dedication to eDesign were rewarded when her eDesign Tribe community and all associated entities were acquired by Mydoma Studio. This acquisition provided designers with an unprecedented level of resources and support, allowing them to render their designs and manage their projects with ease. Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek   Website Virtual Assistant Certification Instagram  Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months!   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio Other Shows Mentioned: #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio   #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’s new for you at Mydoma Studio!   #375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business   #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design   #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation Today With Jenna Gaidusek:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Jenna Gaidusek, Director of Community and Education at Mydoma Studio. Jenna is a talented designer, founder of the Interior Design Playbook (formerly eDesign Tribe) Facebook community and creator of eDesign U, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry.

Jenna doesn’t want you to go it alone as a designer, which is why she joined forces with Mydoma Studio and created the Virtual Assistant Certification program.

Listen now to this sponsored episode for all the details about this amazing new resource available only through Mydoma.

Pick It Apart

 

[3:07] Jenna explains what a virtual assistant is and how they help businesses.

[4:47] LuAnn and Jenna discuss the need for virtual assistants, especially for designers, and why Jenna and Sarah Daniele from Mydoma partnered to create a certification program specifically within the Mydoma Studio platform.

[11:00] LuAnn identifies the ideal candidates for this course.

[14:41] Jenna explains what candidates need to do to get started in the certification program.

[15:50] LuAnn asks Jenna about common tasks VA’s will complete and different ways they can collaborate with designers after this training in both the project management and rendering.

[19:29] Jenna and LuAnn discuss the benefits of having a VA certified in Mydoma Studio, including access to Mydoma, training updates, and access to the community for a year.

[28:11] Jenna explains how the week-long course is structured and how to apply.

  LuAnn Nigara and Jenna Gaidusek's Ah-Ha Moments  

“Virtual assistants are basically like your right hand, man. They can help you streamline your process, take the things off your plate that you just don't enjoy doing, but they thrive on…[doing] the things that you don't love to do, and it makes a great partnership.” – Jenna Gaidusek

 

“There are people that might not be designers that are so perfect for this role as a VA that it just fits and it just clicks and we need you as designers to be our other half.” – Jenna Gaidusek

 

“‘This is a tremendous benefit, that if I recognize the value that Mydoma Studio can be to my business—to my back end, to my operations and my system, but I mentally don't have the capacity, whether it's actual intellectual capacity or physical capacity timewise…[Now there is] somebody that I can pay to put my projects in to get everything done.” – LuAnn Nigara

 

“I believe if you have an organized brain, we can teach this to you.” – Jenna Gaidusek

  More About Jenna Gaidusek 

Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City.

She began sharing her work on social media, and other designers frequently reached out to her with questions. During this time, Jenna noticed a lack of information and resources available for eDesign, which was not yet a popular concept.  To meet this demand, Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook community, which quickly grew into a thriving platform for designers to connect and learn from one another (now called the Interior Design Playbook).

With a continued need for education in the field of virtual design communication and business development, Jenna created eDesign U in 2018, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry.

Jenna also recognized the need for a more user-friendly and affordable 3D rendering program and embeddable shopping list for designers. In response, she developed a cutting-edge platform that provided just that. This platform was quickly embraced by designers and became a game-changer in the industry.

In 2022, Jenna's efforts and dedication to eDesign were rewarded when her eDesign Tribe community and all associated entities were acquired by Mydoma Studio. This acquisition provided designers with an unprecedented level of resources and support, allowing them to render their designs and manage their projects with ease.

Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer.

Connect with Jenna Gaidusek

 

Website

Virtual Assistant Certification

Instagram 

Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months!

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio

Other Shows Mentioned:

#91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

 

#177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’s new for you at Mydoma Studio!

 

#375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business

 

#555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business

#618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design

 

#879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation

]]> 2651 no 910: Christina Richardson: Expanding Your Design Business Internationally: What You Need to Know http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/910-christina-richardson-expanding-your-design-business-internationally-what-you-need-to-know Today With Christina Richardson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re traveling outside the country. My guest Christina Richardson from Christina Richardson Interiors. Christina is a Scandinavian native who grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and two daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. With 20 years of interior design under her belt from Sweden, Christina has learned a lot in the business of starting over in another country. She is here to share the “musts” of what she learned you should do if considering taking projects in another country. Pick It Apart [5:00] Christina shares her experience coming to the U.S. and becoming an interior designer.   [9:10] How Christina got clients being from a different country and not knowing anyone.   [15:27] What to think about if you are in the U.S. and want to start a project in a different country.   [20:20] Christina explains the Vienna Agreement.   [34:42] Tips on vetting a contractor when you are doing an out of country project.   [44:05] Christina explains how things work when there are cultural differences. LuAnn Nigara and Christina Richardson's Ah-Ha Moments  “People like you give newer designers hope where you go through the stages of fear, but you plow through,” - LuAnn Nigara   “It’s important for everyone to know about the Vienna Agreement More About Christina Richardson Christina Richardson is a Scandinavian native, she grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden, in the small town, Skellefteå. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and 2 daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. Having previously earned her masters degree in mechanical engineering and a bachelors degree in construction engineering, and with over 20 years of interior design experience in Sweden under her belt, she’s able to capture the best of both worlds and deliver an alluring blend of function and style that is uniquely her own. A completely female-owned, led, and run business, Christina Richardson Interiors boasts a rich portfolio that includes design elements like Scandinavian, contemporary, coastal, bohemian, and transitional. But Christina doesn’t believe in imposing a style onto her clients. Instead, she figures out what their authentic style is, and then works to make it look absolutely amazing. “I want people to feel like they are seen and heard.” she says. The team is spread out all over the world, Yasmine in New York handles Christina’s PR and communications and Ida in Sweden keeps track of Swedish trends, projects and she also does all the copywriting work and is responsible for all the newsletters. Installation crews are hired close to the sites. Christina works tightly with selected contractors that all have a trained eye for details and design, with several zoom and facetime calls per week to make sure the result is perfect. “Zoom really has changed the design industry”, Christina says, “ I only visit my projects once or twice before install and it works amazingly well when you have good and reliable contractors” The common theme that ties every project together is that each design is created through Christina’s beautiful Swedish lens. Her well-balanced style is fresh, warm, functional, and full of light. It’s sophisticated with a playful edge to wake you up, and unexpected pockets of humor to keep you on your toes. For example, in a recent Hilton Head home design project, upon a classy Serena and Lily end table, sits a rebellious set of coasters that state in all-caps, “Don’t f up the table”. It’s little surprises like these that are indicative of a fabulous mind having designed the space. Speaking of surprises, all of her clients get to experience the treat of her signature design move, “the red thread”. In each design project, Christina creates one area that makes a big statement; bolder than the rest of the space. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll discover she has left little clues, or a “red thread” throughout the rest of the interior, showing you what lies ahead in the big statement area. To the untrained eye, her signature Scandinavian style may appear modern, but as Christina explains, there’s a big difference between the two. “Modern style is colder, minimalistic, and not as functional. Scandi style is all about warmth and light, and very, very functional!”. It makes perfect sense that Christina’s Scandinavian style combines an abundance of both warmth and light. She grew up in an environment that lacks daylight for a substantial part of the year, so playing up light is a big design focus for her. And cold environments like Sweden inspire all things cozy and comfortable, hence the need for generous warmth and function. Connect with Christina Richardson Website Instagram  Tiktok What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #638: What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken   #789: Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer #866: McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World Tue, 05 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Christina Richardson: Expanding Your Design Business Internationally: What You Need to Know full 910 LuAnn Nigara Today With Christina Richardson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re traveling outside the country. My guest Christina Richardson from Christina Richardson Interiors. Christina is a Scandinavian native who grew up on the charming... Today With Christina Richardson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re traveling outside the country. My guest Christina Richardson from Christina Richardson Interiors. Christina is a Scandinavian native who grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and two daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. With 20 years of interior design under her belt from Sweden, Christina has learned a lot in the business of starting over in another country. She is here to share the “musts” of what she learned you should do if considering taking projects in another country. Pick It Apart [5:00] Christina shares her experience coming to the U.S. and becoming an interior designer.   [9:10] How Christina got clients being from a different country and not knowing anyone.   [15:27] What to think about if you are in the U.S. and want to start a project in a different country.   [20:20] Christina explains the Vienna Agreement.   [34:42] Tips on vetting a contractor when you are doing an out of country project.   [44:05] Christina explains how things work when there are cultural differences. LuAnn Nigara and Christina Richardson's Ah-Ha Moments  “People like you give newer designers hope where you go through the stages of fear, but you plow through,” - LuAnn Nigara   “It’s important for everyone to know about the Vienna Agreement More About Christina Richardson Christina Richardson is a Scandinavian native, she grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden, in the small town, Skellefteå. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and 2 daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. Having previously earned her masters degree in mechanical engineering and a bachelors degree in construction engineering, and with over 20 years of interior design experience in Sweden under her belt, she’s able to capture the best of both worlds and deliver an alluring blend of function and style that is uniquely her own. A completely female-owned, led, and run business, Christina Richardson Interiors boasts a rich portfolio that includes design elements like Scandinavian, contemporary, coastal, bohemian, and transitional. But Christina doesn’t believe in imposing a style onto her clients. Instead, she figures out what their authentic style is, and then works to make it look absolutely amazing. “I want people to feel like they are seen and heard.” she says. The team is spread out all over the world, Yasmine in New York handles Christina’s PR and communications and Ida in Sweden keeps track of Swedish trends, projects and she also does all the copywriting work and is responsible for all the newsletters. Installation crews are hired close to the sites. Christina works tightly with selected contractors that all have a trained eye for details and design, with several zoom and facetime calls per week to make sure the result is perfect. “Zoom really has changed the design industry”, Christina says, “ I only visit my projects once or twice before install and it works amazingly well when you have good and reliable contractors” The common theme that ties every project together is that each design is created through Christina’s beautiful Swedish lens. Her well-balanced style is fresh, warm, functional, and full of light. It’s sophisticated with a playful edge to wake you up, and unexpected pockets of humor to keep you on your toes. For example, in a recent Hilton Head home design project, upon a classy Serena and Lily end table, sits a rebellious set of coasters that state in all-caps, “Don’t f up the table”. It’s little surprises like these that are indicative of a fabulous mind having designed the space. Speaking of surprises, all of her clients get to experience the treat of her signature design move, “the red thread”. In each design project, Christina creates one area that makes a big statement; bolder than the rest of the space. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll discover she has left little clues, or a “red thread” throughout the rest of the interior, showing you what lies ahead in the big statement area. To the untrained eye, her signature Scandinavian style may appear modern, but as Christina explains, there’s a big difference between the two. “Modern style is colder, minimalistic, and not as functional. Scandi style is all about warmth and light, and very, very functional!”. It makes perfect sense that Christina’s Scandinavian style combines an abundance of both warmth and light. She grew up in an environment that lacks daylight for a substantial part of the year, so playing up light is a big design focus for her. And cold environments like Sweden inspire all things cozy and comfortable, hence the need for generous warmth and function. Connect with Christina Richardson Website Instagram  Tiktok What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #638: What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken   #789: Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer #866: McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re traveling outside the country. My guest Christina Richardson from Christina Richardson Interiors. Christina is a Scandinavian native who grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and two daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. With 20 years of interior design under her belt from Sweden, Christina has learned a lot in the business of starting over in another country. She is here to share the “musts” of what she learned you should do if considering taking projects in another country.

Pick It Apart

[5:00] Christina shares her experience coming to the U.S. and becoming an interior designer.

 

[9:10] How Christina got clients being from a different country and not knowing anyone.

 

[15:27] What to think about if you are in the U.S. and want to start a project in a different country.

 

[20:20] Christina explains the Vienna Agreement.

 

[34:42] Tips on vetting a contractor when you are doing an out of country project.

 

[44:05] Christina explains how things work when there are cultural differences.

LuAnn Nigara and Christina Richardson's Ah-Ha Moments

 “People like you give newer designers hope where you go through the stages of fear, but you plow through,” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“It’s important for everyone to know about the Vienna Agreement

More About Christina Richardson Christina Richardson is a Scandinavian native, she grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden, in the small town, Skellefteå. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and 2 daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. Having previously earned her masters degree in mechanical engineering and a bachelors degree in construction engineering, and with over 20 years of interior design experience in Sweden under her belt, she’s able to capture the best of both worlds and deliver an alluring blend of function and style that is uniquely her own. A completely female-owned, led, and run business, Christina Richardson Interiors boasts a rich portfolio that includes design elements like Scandinavian, contemporary, coastal, bohemian, and transitional. But Christina doesn’t believe in imposing a style onto her clients. Instead, she figures out what their authentic style is, and then works to make it look absolutely amazing. “I want people to feel like they are seen and heard.” she says. The team is spread out all over the world, Yasmine in New York handles Christina’s PR and communications and Ida in Sweden keeps track of Swedish trends, projects and she also does all the copywriting work and is responsible for all the newsletters. Installation crews are hired close to the sites. Christina works tightly with selected contractors that all have a trained eye for details and design, with several zoom and facetime calls per week to make sure the result is perfect. “Zoom really has changed the design industry”, Christina says, “ I only visit my projects once or twice before install and it works amazingly well when you have good and reliable contractors” The common theme that ties every project together is that each design is created through Christina’s beautiful Swedish lens. Her well-balanced style is fresh, warm, functional, and full of light. It’s sophisticated with a playful edge to wake you up, and unexpected pockets of humor to keep you on your toes. For example, in a recent Hilton Head home design project, upon a classy Serena and Lily end table, sits a rebellious set of coasters that state in all-caps, “Don’t f up the table”. It’s little surprises like these that are indicative of a fabulous mind having designed the space. Speaking of surprises, all of her clients get to experience the treat of her signature design move, “the red thread”. In each design project, Christina creates one area that makes a big statement; bolder than the rest of the space. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll discover she has left little clues, or a “red thread” throughout the rest of the interior, showing you what lies ahead in the big statement area. To the untrained eye, her signature Scandinavian style may appear modern, but as Christina explains, there’s a big difference between the two. “Modern style is colder, minimalistic, and not as functional. Scandi style is all about warmth and light, and very, very functional!”. It makes perfect sense that Christina’s Scandinavian style combines an abundance of both warmth and light. She grew up in an environment that lacks daylight for a substantial part of the year, so playing up light is a big design focus for her. And cold environments like Sweden inspire all things cozy and comfortable, hence the need for generous warmth and function. Connect with Christina Richardson

Website

Instagram 

Tiktok

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#638: What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken

 

#789: Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer

#866: McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World ]]> 3621 no 909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/909-power-talk-friday-traci-connell-normalizing-wealth-with-the-gloss Today With Traci Connell: Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell’s free masterclass The Reveal which begins on September 11, 2023. Traci joins us once again to share all of the ways you can work with her in The Gloss, including her free masterclass The Reveal where she “reveals” all of the secrets and shortcuts she has learned in the interior design industry. This is a five-day, one-hour-per-day event. In The Reveal, you will learn the strategies Traci teaches designers to hit one million in revenue. This FREE course is for any interior designer who wants to reach the next level. Who wouldn’t that be, right?  Traci and I also discuss all of the valuable ways you can work with her in The Gloss. She uses her own four-pillar framework; More Purpose, More Precision, More Profit, and More Prestige to help designers achieve more wealth financially, mentally, and personally.  This #smartlady continues to offer up her shortcuts and expertise in everything she has learned on her way to building her multimillion-dollar design firm. Listen in to learn how to join The Gloss and get on The Reveal waitlist. Pick It Apart [12:48] Traci explains her two main keys to leveling up and creating wealth in your business. [16:00] How do you prevent clients from sourcing online after you have sourced things for them? [25:46] Traci talks about the new contingency fee that she has implemented. [34:54] How joining The Confidential can build your business. [39:38] Traci shares her programs and how you can work with her. LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments “Wealth doesn’t necessarily mean money. It’s not about being rich, but having a rich life.” - Traci Connell “We always say on the show, if you tell me ahead of time what the agreements are before we sign, I am a grown up and can decide whether I want to proceed. There are no hard feelings because everyone knows the deal from the beginning.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Traci Connell Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture. With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board. Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021,  D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more. Connect with Traci Connell The Gloss The Confidential Attend the free masterclass - The Reveal! Instagram Other Shows Mentioned: #525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success #554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell and her free course, The Reveal. Fri, 01 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss full 909 LuAnn Nigara Today With Traci Connell: Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell’s free masterclass The Reveal which begins on September 11, 2023. Traci joins us once again to share all of the ways you can work with her in The Gloss, including her free... Today With Traci Connell: Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell’s free masterclass The Reveal which begins on September 11, 2023. Traci joins us once again to share all of the ways you can work with her in The Gloss, including her free masterclass The Reveal where she “reveals” all of the secrets and shortcuts she has learned in the interior design industry. This is a five-day, one-hour-per-day event. In The Reveal, you will learn the strategies Traci teaches designers to hit one million in revenue. This FREE course is for any interior designer who wants to reach the next level. Who wouldn’t that be, right?  Traci and I also discuss all of the valuable ways you can work with her in The Gloss. She uses her own four-pillar framework; More Purpose, More Precision, More Profit, and More Prestige to help designers achieve more wealth financially, mentally, and personally.  This #smartlady continues to offer up her shortcuts and expertise in everything she has learned on her way to building her multimillion-dollar design firm. Listen in to learn how to join The Gloss and get on The Reveal waitlist. Pick It Apart [12:48] Traci explains her two main keys to leveling up and creating wealth in your business. [16:00] How do you prevent clients from sourcing online after you have sourced things for them? [25:46] Traci talks about the new contingency fee that she has implemented. [34:54] How joining The Confidential can build your business. [39:38] Traci shares her programs and how you can work with her. LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments “Wealth doesn’t necessarily mean money. It’s not about being rich, but having a rich life.” - Traci Connell “We always say on the show, if you tell me ahead of time what the agreements are before we sign, I am a grown up and can decide whether I want to proceed. There are no hard feelings because everyone knows the deal from the beginning.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Traci Connell Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture. With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes. Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board. Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021,  D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more. Connect with Traci Connell The Gloss The Confidential Attend the free masterclass - The Reveal! Instagram Other Shows Mentioned: #525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success #554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell and her free course, The Reveal. Today With Traci Connell:

Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell’s free masterclass The Reveal which begins on September 11, 2023. Traci joins us once again to share all of the ways you can work with her in The Gloss, including her free masterclass The Reveal where she “reveals” all of the secrets and shortcuts she has learned in the interior design industry. This is a five-day, one-hour-per-day event.

In The Reveal, you will learn the strategies Traci teaches designers to hit one million in revenue. This FREE course is for any interior designer who wants to reach the next level. Who wouldn’t that be, right? 

Traci and I also discuss all of the valuable ways you can work with her in The Gloss. She uses her own four-pillar framework; More Purpose, More Precision, More Profit, and More Prestige to help designers achieve more wealth financially, mentally, and personally. 

This #smartlady continues to offer up her shortcuts and expertise in everything she has learned on her way to building her multimillion-dollar design firm. Listen in to learn how to join The Gloss and get on The Reveal waitlist.

Pick It Apart

[12:48] Traci explains her two main keys to leveling up and creating wealth in your business.

[16:00] How do you prevent clients from sourcing online after you have sourced things for them?

[25:46] Traci talks about the new contingency fee that she has implemented.

[34:54] How joining The Confidential can build your business.

[39:38] Traci shares her programs and how you can work with her.

LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments

“Wealth doesn’t necessarily mean money. It’s not about being rich, but having a rich life.” - Traci Connell

“We always say on the show, if you tell me ahead of time what the agreements are before we sign, I am a grown up and can decide whether I want to proceed. There are no hard feelings because everyone knows the deal from the beginning.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Traci Connell

Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture.

With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes.

Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board.

Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021,  D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more.

Connect with Traci Connell

The Gloss

The Confidential

Attend the free masterclass - The Reveal!

Instagram

Other Shows Mentioned:

#525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success

#554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell and her free course, The Reveal.

]]> 3414 no 908: Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/908-jessica-bantom-how-to-be-a-culturally-competent-design-activist-why-you-want-to-be-one-part-1 Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, DEIB practitioner, and author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. This is the first part of a conversation about how to become a culturally competent designer.  In this episode, part one of a two-part series, Jessica explains cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. But she explains that it essentially comes down to making space for conversations. Pick It Apart [5:54] LuAnn and Jessica talk about the goals of Jessica’s new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World   [11:59] Jessica explains why she uses the term “identity” instead of culture, in order to speak more broadly about differences across multiple dimensions—including race and ethnicity but also age, religion, sexual orientation, and body size.  [18:32] Jessica and LuAnn discuss unconscious bias. [21:46] Jessica and LuAnn examine the way different people are able (or unable) to share their experiences and why that is. [35:45] LuAnn clarifies with Jessica that the message in her book is that, as designers, we need to make space for these conversations. [39:35] Jessica explains that designers should not be making assumptions or interpreting someone else’s identity. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments “Cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. And what that essentially boils down to is just really making space to understand and appreciate that there are different experiences that people have based on different aspects of their identity. And it's all about being open-minded to what those are, and accepting that there are other realities.” – Jessica Bantom “We may be in the same room looking at the same thing, but we are going to experience and we are going to process it differently.” – Jessica Bantom “Instead of telling somebody that's baseless, we have to be willing to ask and understand how it happens that way, and why those feelings are there.” – LuAnn Nigara “ ‘It is the duty of the interior designer to have awareness and sensitivity in going about their design for all of the communities that they designed for.’” – LuAnn Nigara quoting from the book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World by Jessica Bantom   “As designers it's not on us to interpret somebody's culture or identity. It is on us to open the door for the conversation—to receive the information, to process it, to do what we do as designers with that new information. But it's not on us to come up with our interpretation of somebody's identity.” – Jessica Bantom More About Jessica Bantom Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy. Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia. Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Connect with Jessica Bantom Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry AWDB #732: Power Talk Friday: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) full 908 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, DEIB practitioner, and author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. This is the first part of a... Today With Jessica Bantom: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, DEIB practitioner, and author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. This is the first part of a conversation about how to become a culturally competent designer.  In this episode, part one of a two-part series, Jessica explains cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. But she explains that it essentially comes down to making space for conversations. Pick It Apart [5:54] LuAnn and Jessica talk about the goals of Jessica’s new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World   [11:59] Jessica explains why she uses the term “identity” instead of culture, in order to speak more broadly about differences across multiple dimensions—including race and ethnicity but also age, religion, sexual orientation, and body size.  [18:32] Jessica and LuAnn discuss unconscious bias. [21:46] Jessica and LuAnn examine the way different people are able (or unable) to share their experiences and why that is. [35:45] LuAnn clarifies with Jessica that the message in her book is that, as designers, we need to make space for these conversations. [39:35] Jessica explains that designers should not be making assumptions or interpreting someone else’s identity. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments “Cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. And what that essentially boils down to is just really making space to understand and appreciate that there are different experiences that people have based on different aspects of their identity. And it's all about being open-minded to what those are, and accepting that there are other realities.” – Jessica Bantom “We may be in the same room looking at the same thing, but we are going to experience and we are going to process it differently.” – Jessica Bantom “Instead of telling somebody that's baseless, we have to be willing to ask and understand how it happens that way, and why those feelings are there.” – LuAnn Nigara “ ‘It is the duty of the interior designer to have awareness and sensitivity in going about their design for all of the communities that they designed for.’” – LuAnn Nigara quoting from the book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World by Jessica Bantom   “As designers it's not on us to interpret somebody's culture or identity. It is on us to open the door for the conversation—to receive the information, to process it, to do what we do as designers with that new information. But it's not on us to come up with our interpretation of somebody's identity.” – Jessica Bantom More About Jessica Bantom Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy. Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia. Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Connect with Jessica Bantom Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry AWDB #732: Power Talk Friday: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, DEIB practitioner, and author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. This is the first part of a conversation about how to become a culturally competent designer. 

In this episode, part one of a two-part series, Jessica explains cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. But she explains that it essentially comes down to making space for conversations.

Pick It Apart

[5:54] LuAnn and Jessica talk about the goals of Jessica’s new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World  

[11:59] Jessica explains why she uses the term “identity” instead of culture, in order to speak more broadly about differences across multiple dimensions—including race and ethnicity but also age, religion, sexual orientation, and body size. 

[18:32] Jessica and LuAnn discuss unconscious bias.

[21:46] Jessica and LuAnn examine the way different people are able (or unable) to share their experiences and why that is.

[35:45] LuAnn clarifies with Jessica that the message in her book is that, as designers, we need to make space for these conversations.

[39:35] Jessica explains that designers should not be making assumptions or interpreting someone else’s identity.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Bantom's Ah-Ha Moments

“Cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. And what that essentially boils down to is just really making space to understand and appreciate that there are different experiences that people have based on different aspects of their identity. And it's all about being open-minded to what those are, and accepting that there are other realities.” – Jessica Bantom

“We may be in the same room looking at the same thing, but we are going to experience and we are going to process it differently.” – Jessica Bantom

“Instead of telling somebody that's baseless, we have to be willing to ask and understand how it happens that way, and why those feelings are there.” – LuAnn Nigara

“ ‘It is the duty of the interior designer to have awareness and sensitivity in going about their design for all of the communities that they designed for.’” – LuAnn Nigara quoting from the book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World by Jessica Bantom

 

“As designers it's not on us to interpret somebody's culture or identity. It is on us to open the door for the conversation—to receive the information, to process it, to do what we do as designers with that new information. But it's not on us to come up with our interpretation of somebody's identity.” – Jessica Bantom

More About Jessica Bantom

Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy.

Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.

Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home.

Connect with Jessica Bantom

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry AWDB #732: Power Talk Friday: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business AWDB #862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home AWDB #892 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes ]]> 3420 no 907: Power Talk Friday: Manuela Keller and Philip McKay: Introducing 2 New Home Industry Trade Shows; Sun Shading Expo North America and R+T, Stuttgart Germany http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/907-power-talk-friday-manuela-keller-and-philip-mckay-introducing-2-new-home-industry-trade-shows-sun-shading-expo-north-america-and-rt-stuttgart-germany Today With Manuela Keller & Philip McKay: Today’s episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart, a German company that specializes in organizing trade shows, particularly for the home decor industry. They have been in the trade show business for more than 80 years, annually organizing around 60 shows and 100 conferences worldwide.  Manuela Keller and Philip McKay are joining us to tell us all about two upcoming events: Sun Shading Expo 2023 and R+T 2024, which will both bring together the sun shading and textiles industries. Here, you will be able to maximize your time and meet the right people to discuss business opportunities for the entire sun shading product range. More About Manuela Keller & Philip McKay About Manuela:   Manuela Keller is an experienced manager of international trade shows and events around the globe, with a proven track record in the event services industry since 2006. She has knowledge in strategic planning, business development, marketing strategy, event management and management.   Starting as an intern in the international department of Messe Stuttgart in 2006, she soon took on more responsibility and became project manager for official German Pavilions - joint company participations - at trade shows in all parts of the world - including SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, SolarPower in Anaheim, IMTS in Chicago, ArabHealth in Dubai - to name just a few.   In 2009, Manuela became the project manager of R+T Asia, the leading international trade show for the sun control and door industry in the ASEAN region. Other trade fairs such as R+T Middle East, R+T Russia, R+T Turkey and R+T South America were added over the years.    Today, she is Manager of Exhibitions and Events and responsible for the international trade shows of the R+T Alliance - R+T Asia (Shanghai, China), R+T Turkey (Istanbul, Turkey), Sun Shading Expo North America (changing locations/USA) and APAExpo by R+T (Barcelona, Spain).   Manuela Keller is also part of the project team for R+T - the World's Leading Trade Fair for Roller Shutters, Doors and Sun Shading Systems. Among other things, she is responsible for the overarching exchange with the international association partners and supporters, the strategic and thematic support of the international conference program and the processing of international exhibitor and visitor inquiries, as well as the management of the international sales force. With more than 17 years of experience in organizing international trade shows, she brings remarkable added value and her global network to the organization of this outstanding, internationally renowned trade show. The international trade fair heart beats in the middle of the dynamic Stuttgart region. Over 60 trade fairs and more than 100 congresses and events are held every year at our venue. We also operate all over the world and maintain a network of foreign representatives in 51 countries.   She has been married for more than 20 years and is a proud mother of a 10 year old son. As a balance to her working life, she likes to go for long walks in the nearby forest or attend live concerts - preferably punk or alternative rock.   About Philip:   Philip McKay has a proven track record as a successful senior executive with leading event companies.  Before becoming President of Messe Stuttgart IncPhilip founded nGage Events LLC. in 2012. nGage became the premier hosted buyer events company in North America where it produced over 15 events a year across many industries.   Phil McKay also served in many executive positions for some of the largest trade show producers in the globe such as:   Executive VP for Questex Media and was responsible for their hosted model events and technology group. He has also served as Senior Vice President of the World Market Center in Las Vegas in charge of growing their event portfolio in the furniture, gift and home accessories industries. Mr. McKay held the position of Group Vice President and General Manager at Gartner's Vision Events, where he managed the teams of 10 different brands which were leaders in the hosted events in each of their verticals. He also served as Senior Vice President of International Business Development & Operations for Key3Media Group, overseeing the company's portfolio of COMDEX and N+I with 20 plus markets in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Prior to Key3Media, McKay was Group Managing Director for Penton Media.   In 2004, Philip McKay was recognized and awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from Tradeshow Week magazine for his outstanding and distinguished contributions to the global events industry.   Philip McKay is a past member of the board of directors of SISO. He was an active member in the Massachusetts Convention Center Advisory Board, also was past chairman of IAEE Senior Executive Advisory Board and The Future Strategy of Trade Fairs. He also was a past member of the Research Committee of CEIR and editorial advisory board member of Trade Show Executive Magazine.   He is a proud father of two men, and three grandchildren. When Phil is not working in his gardens and spoiling his grandchildren, you will find him on the golf course. Connect with Manuela Keller & Philip McKay Sun Shading Expo R+T 2024 A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart Fri, 25 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Manuela Keller and Philip McKay: Introducing 2 New Home Industry Trade Shows; Sun Shading Expo North America and R+T, Stuttgart Germany full 907 LuAnn Nigara Today With Manuela Keller & Philip McKay: Today’s episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart, a German company that specializes in organizing trade shows, particularly for the home decor industry. They have been in the trade show business for... Today With Manuela Keller & Philip McKay: Today’s episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart, a German company that specializes in organizing trade shows, particularly for the home decor industry. They have been in the trade show business for more than 80 years, annually organizing around 60 shows and 100 conferences worldwide.  Manuela Keller and Philip McKay are joining us to tell us all about two upcoming events: Sun Shading Expo 2023 and R+T 2024, which will both bring together the sun shading and textiles industries. Here, you will be able to maximize your time and meet the right people to discuss business opportunities for the entire sun shading product range. More About Manuela Keller & Philip McKay About Manuela:   Manuela Keller is an experienced manager of international trade shows and events around the globe, with a proven track record in the event services industry since 2006. She has knowledge in strategic planning, business development, marketing strategy, event management and management.   Starting as an intern in the international department of Messe Stuttgart in 2006, she soon took on more responsibility and became project manager for official German Pavilions - joint company participations - at trade shows in all parts of the world - including SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, SolarPower in Anaheim, IMTS in Chicago, ArabHealth in Dubai - to name just a few.   In 2009, Manuela became the project manager of R+T Asia, the leading international trade show for the sun control and door industry in the ASEAN region. Other trade fairs such as R+T Middle East, R+T Russia, R+T Turkey and R+T South America were added over the years.    Today, she is Manager of Exhibitions and Events and responsible for the international trade shows of the R+T Alliance - R+T Asia (Shanghai, China), R+T Turkey (Istanbul, Turkey), Sun Shading Expo North America (changing locations/USA) and APAExpo by R+T (Barcelona, Spain).   Manuela Keller is also part of the project team for R+T - the World's Leading Trade Fair for Roller Shutters, Doors and Sun Shading Systems. Among other things, she is responsible for the overarching exchange with the international association partners and supporters, the strategic and thematic support of the international conference program and the processing of international exhibitor and visitor inquiries, as well as the management of the international sales force. With more than 17 years of experience in organizing international trade shows, she brings remarkable added value and her global network to the organization of this outstanding, internationally renowned trade show. The international trade fair heart beats in the middle of the dynamic Stuttgart region. Over 60 trade fairs and more than 100 congresses and events are held every year at our venue. We also operate all over the world and maintain a network of foreign representatives in 51 countries.   She has been married for more than 20 years and is a proud mother of a 10 year old son. As a balance to her working life, she likes to go for long walks in the nearby forest or attend live concerts - preferably punk or alternative rock.   About Philip:   Philip McKay has a proven track record as a successful senior executive with leading event companies.  Before becoming President of Messe Stuttgart IncPhilip founded nGage Events LLC. in 2012. nGage became the premier hosted buyer events company in North America where it produced over 15 events a year across many industries.   Phil McKay also served in many executive positions for some of the largest trade show producers in the globe such as:   Executive VP for Questex Media and was responsible for their hosted model events and technology group. He has also served as Senior Vice President of the World Market Center in Las Vegas in charge of growing their event portfolio in the furniture, gift and home accessories industries. Mr. McKay held the position of Group Vice President and General Manager at Gartner's Vision Events, where he managed the teams of 10 different brands which were leaders in the hosted events in each of their verticals. He also served as Senior Vice President of International Business Development & Operations for Key3Media Group, overseeing the company's portfolio of COMDEX and N+I with 20 plus markets in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Prior to Key3Media, McKay was Group Managing Director for Penton Media.   In 2004, Philip McKay was recognized and awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from Tradeshow Week magazine for his outstanding and distinguished contributions to the global events industry.   Philip McKay is a past member of the board of directors of SISO. He was an active member in the Massachusetts Convention Center Advisory Board, also was past chairman of IAEE Senior Executive Advisory Board and The Future Strategy of Trade Fairs. He also was a past member of the Research Committee of CEIR and editorial advisory board member of Trade Show Executive Magazine.   He is a proud father of two men, and three grandchildren. When Phil is not working in his gardens and spoiling his grandchildren, you will find him on the golf course. Connect with Manuela Keller & Philip McKay Sun Shading Expo R+T 2024 A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart Today With Manuela Keller & Philip McKay:

Today’s episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart, a German company that specializes in organizing trade shows, particularly for the home decor industry. They have been in the trade show business for more than 80 years, annually organizing around 60 shows and 100 conferences worldwide. 

Manuela Keller and Philip McKay are joining us to tell us all about two upcoming events: Sun Shading Expo 2023 and R+T 2024, which will both bring together the sun shading and textiles industries. Here, you will be able to maximize your time and meet the right people to discuss business opportunities for the entire sun shading product range.

More About Manuela Keller & Philip McKay

About Manuela:

 

Manuela Keller is an experienced manager of international trade shows and events around the globe, with a proven track record in the event services industry since 2006. She has knowledge in strategic planning, business development, marketing strategy, event management and management.

 

Starting as an intern in the international department of Messe Stuttgart in 2006, she soon took on more responsibility and became project manager for official German Pavilions - joint company participations - at trade shows in all parts of the world - including SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, SolarPower in Anaheim, IMTS in Chicago, ArabHealth in Dubai - to name just a few.

 

In 2009, Manuela became the project manager of R+T Asia, the leading international trade show for the sun control and door industry in the ASEAN region. Other trade fairs such as R+T Middle East, R+T Russia, R+T Turkey and R+T South America were added over the years. 

 

Today, she is Manager of Exhibitions and Events and responsible for the international trade shows of the R+T Alliance - R+T Asia (Shanghai, China), R+T Turkey (Istanbul, Turkey), Sun Shading Expo North America (changing locations/USA) and APAExpo by R+T (Barcelona, Spain).

 

Manuela Keller is also part of the project team for R+T - the World's Leading Trade Fair for Roller Shutters, Doors and Sun Shading Systems. Among other things, she is responsible for the overarching exchange with the international association partners and supporters, the strategic and thematic support of the international conference program and the processing of international exhibitor and visitor inquiries, as well as the management of the international sales force. With more than 17 years of experience in organizing international trade shows, she brings remarkable added value and her global network to the organization of this outstanding, internationally renowned trade show.

The international trade fair heart beats in the middle of the dynamic Stuttgart region. Over 60 trade fairs and more than 100 congresses and events are held every year at our venue. We also operate all over the world and maintain a network of foreign representatives in 51 countries.

 

She has been married for more than 20 years and is a proud mother of a 10 year old son. As a balance to her working life, she likes to go for long walks in the nearby forest or attend live concerts - preferably punk or alternative rock.

 

About Philip:

 

Philip McKay has a proven track record as a successful senior executive with leading event companies.  Before becoming President of Messe Stuttgart IncPhilip founded nGage Events LLC. in 2012. nGage became the premier hosted buyer events company in North America where it produced over 15 events a year across many industries.

 

Phil McKay also served in many executive positions for some of the largest trade show producers in the globe such as:

 

Executive VP for Questex Media and was responsible for their hosted model events and technology group. He has also served as Senior Vice President of the World Market Center in Las Vegas in charge of growing their event portfolio in the furniture, gift and home accessories industries. Mr. McKay held the position of Group Vice President and General Manager at Gartner's Vision Events, where he managed the teams of 10 different brands which were leaders in the hosted events in each of their verticals. He also served as Senior Vice President of International Business Development & Operations for Key3Media Group, overseeing the company's portfolio of COMDEX and N+I with 20 plus markets in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Prior to Key3Media, McKay was Group Managing Director for Penton Media.

 

In 2004, Philip McKay was recognized and awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from Tradeshow Week magazine for his outstanding and distinguished contributions to the global events industry.

 

Philip McKay is a past member of the board of directors of SISO. He was an active member in the Massachusetts Convention Center Advisory Board, also was past chairman of IAEE Senior Executive Advisory Board and The Future Strategy of Trade Fairs. He also was a past member of the Research Committee of CEIR and editorial advisory board member of Trade Show Executive Magazine.

 

He is a proud father of two men, and three grandchildren. When Phil is not working in his gardens and spoiling his grandchildren, you will find him on the golf course.

Connect with Manuela Keller & Philip McKay

Sun Shading Expo

R+T 2024

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart

]]> 3021 no 906: Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/906-katie-wick-my-path-in-interior-design-my-choice-to-be-an-employee Today With Katie Wick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would you think if I said that you could be a successful interior designer working as an employee? For some, you may think, nah. For others, you may be thinking tell me more!  My guest today, Katie Wick, interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent is here to debunk the unspoken stigma that if you are an interior designer and you don't own your own business, then you won’t be successful. Listen in to learn all of the perks and benefits to working for an interior design company. Pick It Apart [2:30] We kick the conversation off with the benefits of working as an interior design employee.   [8:45] Katie’s specific role and day to day duties at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent.   [17:04]  Katie explains how she configures her social media while doing design for Jkath.   [25:47] Additional ways that Katie and Jesse support Katie as an employee.   [44:05] Katie explains her opinion of the stigma attached to designers who don’t want to necessarily start their own firm. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Wick's Ah-Ha Moments “Working within a firm with established systems and vendors contributes to a designer’s delivery and experience with high level design.” - LuAnn Nigara  “There has to be a willingness from both the employee and employer to have the hard conversations and proper communication.” - LuAnn Nigara “They’ve been so generous to me and have created a great culture at Jkath. I would never do anything to cause any suffering in the business. And although it is their business, it is my reputation as well.” - Katie Wick More About Katie Wick Katie Wick is an interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent in the Twin Cities. Katie’s design ethos is thoughtful, inviting, and sustainable designs. Each design reinvents homes to optimize how a family functions in their space, an environment that emulates comfort and pride to welcome families and friends to gather, and craftsmanship that will sustain past current design trends. Katie specializes in residential renovations including kitchens, bathrooms, and whole house renovations with custom cabinetry design. A homebody at heart, Katie soaks in time with her son and husband at home, playing, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors. Connect with Katie Wick Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 #627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business Tue, 22 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Katie Wick: My Path in Interior Design; My Choice to Be an Employee. full 906 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie Wick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would you think if I said that you could be a successful interior designer working as an employee? For some, you may think, nah. For others, you may be thinking tell me more!  My... Today With Katie Wick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would you think if I said that you could be a successful interior designer working as an employee? For some, you may think, nah. For others, you may be thinking tell me more!  My guest today, Katie Wick, interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent is here to debunk the unspoken stigma that if you are an interior designer and you don't own your own business, then you won’t be successful. Listen in to learn all of the perks and benefits to working for an interior design company. Pick It Apart [2:30] We kick the conversation off with the benefits of working as an interior design employee.   [8:45] Katie’s specific role and day to day duties at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent.   [17:04]  Katie explains how she configures her social media while doing design for Jkath.   [25:47] Additional ways that Katie and Jesse support Katie as an employee.   [44:05] Katie explains her opinion of the stigma attached to designers who don’t want to necessarily start their own firm. LuAnn Nigara and Katie Wick's Ah-Ha Moments “Working within a firm with established systems and vendors contributes to a designer’s delivery and experience with high level design.” - LuAnn Nigara  “There has to be a willingness from both the employee and employer to have the hard conversations and proper communication.” - LuAnn Nigara “They’ve been so generous to me and have created a great culture at Jkath. I would never do anything to cause any suffering in the business. And although it is their business, it is my reputation as well.” - Katie Wick More About Katie Wick Katie Wick is an interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent in the Twin Cities. Katie’s design ethos is thoughtful, inviting, and sustainable designs. Each design reinvents homes to optimize how a family functions in their space, an environment that emulates comfort and pride to welcome families and friends to gather, and craftsmanship that will sustain past current design trends. Katie specializes in residential renovations including kitchens, bathrooms, and whole house renovations with custom cabinetry design. A homebody at heart, Katie soaks in time with her son and husband at home, playing, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors. Connect with Katie Wick Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 #627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would you think if I said that you could be a successful interior designer working as an employee? For some, you may think, nah. For others, you may be thinking tell me more! 

My guest today, Katie Wick, interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent is here to debunk the unspoken stigma that if you are an interior designer and you don't own your own business, then you won’t be successful. Listen in to learn all of the perks and benefits to working for an interior design company. Pick It Apart

[2:30] We kick the conversation off with the benefits of working as an interior design employee.

 

[8:45] Katie’s specific role and day to day duties at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent.

 

[17:04]  Katie explains how she configures her social media while doing design for Jkath.

 

[25:47] Additional ways that Katie and Jesse support Katie as an employee.

 

[44:05] Katie explains her opinion of the stigma attached to designers who don’t want to necessarily start their own firm.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie Wick's Ah-Ha Moments

“Working within a firm with established systems and vendors contributes to a designer’s delivery and experience with high level design.” - LuAnn Nigara 

“There has to be a willingness from both the employee and employer to have the hard conversations and proper communication.” - LuAnn Nigara

“They’ve been so generous to me and have created a great culture at Jkath. I would never do anything to cause any suffering in the business. And although it is their business, it is my reputation as well.” - Katie Wick

More About Katie Wick Katie Wick is an interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent in the Twin Cities. Katie’s design ethos is thoughtful, inviting, and sustainable designs. Each design reinvents homes to optimize how a family functions in their space, an environment that emulates comfort and pride to welcome families and friends to gather, and craftsmanship that will sustain past current design trends. Katie specializes in residential renovations including kitchens, bathrooms, and whole house renovations with custom cabinetry design. A homebody at heart, Katie soaks in time with her son and husband at home, playing, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors. Connect with Katie Wick

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019

#627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business

]]> 4178 no 905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/905-power-talk-friday-duke-renders-why-successful-design-firms-choose-duke-renders-for-their-rendering-projects Today With Fernando Duque: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by friend and colleague Fernando Duque, the CEO of Duke Renders. I am also joined by designers Nicole Salceda, from Eye for Pretty, and Elle Odori, founder of Decorelle, who are living proof that using 3D rendering from Duke Renders can uplevel your projects. Having had Fernando on two times before, we are well aware of his clear process and tremendous success. But we have never heard first hand from one of his clients. It is always nice to hear recommendations from a colleague, and boy do these two recommend Duke Renders. Nicole and Elle share their positive experiences with Duke Renders despite their initial intimidation to give rendering a shot. Pick It Apart   [3:15] Nicole starts us off with how Duke Renders has personally helped her in her projects.   [7:12] Fernando explains what a designer needs to provide in order for Duke Renders to have detailed renderings.   [17:30] Fernando explains how they can easily use your project management systems, like Mydoma to help formulate your rendering.   [24:54] What to expect with the price of rendering.   [32:55] Nicole shares how she uses rendering for her spec homes.   [43:12] How rendering can not only help your clients visualize a space, but also new ideas from the designer.   [48:15] Fernando’s final thoughts about using Duke Render’s 3D rendering for your projects. LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments “For our first experience going into rendering I was nervous, but Duke Renders made it easy and really laid it out for us by sending us a template to follow.” - Elle Odori “When you have the rendering, it gets the client so excited for what’s to come and holds them over.” -Nicole Salceda “When do you know if it is OK to invest in your business? It is always OK, but it is never going to feel easy.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Fernando Duque Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment. We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs. We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process. I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu. Fun Facts: 1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day! 2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years 3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.  Other Shows Mentioned: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers Fri, 18 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects full 905 LuAnn Nigara Today With Fernando Duque: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by friend and colleague Fernando Duque, the CEO of Duke Renders. I am also joined by designers Nicole Salceda, from Eye for Pretty, and Elle Odori, founder of Decorelle, who are... Today With Fernando Duque: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by friend and colleague Fernando Duque, the CEO of Duke Renders. I am also joined by designers Nicole Salceda, from Eye for Pretty, and Elle Odori, founder of Decorelle, who are living proof that using 3D rendering from Duke Renders can uplevel your projects. Having had Fernando on two times before, we are well aware of his clear process and tremendous success. But we have never heard first hand from one of his clients. It is always nice to hear recommendations from a colleague, and boy do these two recommend Duke Renders. Nicole and Elle share their positive experiences with Duke Renders despite their initial intimidation to give rendering a shot. Pick It Apart   [3:15] Nicole starts us off with how Duke Renders has personally helped her in her projects.   [7:12] Fernando explains what a designer needs to provide in order for Duke Renders to have detailed renderings.   [17:30] Fernando explains how they can easily use your project management systems, like Mydoma to help formulate your rendering.   [24:54] What to expect with the price of rendering.   [32:55] Nicole shares how she uses rendering for her spec homes.   [43:12] How rendering can not only help your clients visualize a space, but also new ideas from the designer.   [48:15] Fernando’s final thoughts about using Duke Render’s 3D rendering for your projects. LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments “For our first experience going into rendering I was nervous, but Duke Renders made it easy and really laid it out for us by sending us a template to follow.” - Elle Odori “When you have the rendering, it gets the client so excited for what’s to come and holds them over.” -Nicole Salceda “When do you know if it is OK to invest in your business? It is always OK, but it is never going to feel easy.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Fernando Duque Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment. We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs. We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process. I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu. Fun Facts: 1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day! 2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years 3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Houzz A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.  Other Shows Mentioned: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers Today With Fernando Duque:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by friend and colleague Fernando Duque, the CEO of Duke Renders. I am also joined by designers Nicole Salceda, from Eye for Pretty, and Elle Odori, founder of Decorelle, who are living proof that using 3D rendering from Duke Renders can uplevel your projects.

Having had Fernando on two times before, we are well aware of his clear process and tremendous success. But we have never heard first hand from one of his clients. It is always nice to hear recommendations from a colleague, and boy do these two recommend Duke Renders. Nicole and Elle share their positive experiences with Duke Renders despite their initial intimidation to give rendering a shot.

Pick It Apart

 

[3:15] Nicole starts us off with how Duke Renders has personally helped her in her projects.

 

[7:12] Fernando explains what a designer needs to provide in order for Duke Renders to have detailed renderings.

 

[17:30] Fernando explains how they can easily use your project management systems, like Mydoma to help formulate your rendering.

 

[24:54] What to expect with the price of rendering.

 

[32:55] Nicole shares how she uses rendering for her spec homes.

 

[43:12] How rendering can not only help your clients visualize a space, but also new ideas from the designer.

 

[48:15] Fernando’s final thoughts about using Duke Render’s 3D rendering for your projects.

LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments

“For our first experience going into rendering I was nervous, but Duke Renders made it easy and really laid it out for us by sending us a template to follow.” - Elle Odori

“When you have the rendering, it gets the client so excited for what’s to come and holds them over.” -Nicole Salceda

“When do you know if it is OK to invest in your business? It is always OK, but it is never going to feel easy.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Fernando Duque

Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.

I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.

We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico.

We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.

We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.

We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.

I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.

Fun Facts:

1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!

2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years

3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife

Connect with Fernando Duque

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Houzz

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

#823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

#852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers

]]> 3772 no 904: Megan Pisano: Instagram for Interior Designers: Engagement Matters More than Followers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/904-megan-pisano-instagram-for-interior-designers-engagement-matters-more-than-followers Today With Megan Pisano: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that social media can be a great marketing tool—if you can build up a big following. But if you’re struggling to gain a big number of followers, is it even worth the time?  My guest today, Megan Pisano, would say the answer is absolutely yes. With under 4,000 Instagram followers, Megan has still managed to put social media to strong use for her business through engagement and relationship building. Learn why engagement matters more than metrics! Pick It Apart [2:27] Megan breaks down how she started using social media for her business.   [15:42] LuAnn and Megan discuss the importance of investing in professional photography.   [16:20] Megan shares the nitty-gritty of her Instagram approach, from content to hashtags.   [33:24] Megan discusses how relationship-building and engagement matter so much on Instagram.   [45:04] Megan and LuAnn talk about the value of referrals, networking, and live events. LuAnn Nigara and Megan Pisano's Ah-Ha Moments “So even though the first time they reach out to you, it's technically a cold lead, it actually is functioning like a warm lead, because the relationship has already begun.” -LuAnn   “You have to post pictures of yourself. People want to know what you look like.” -Megan More About Megan Pisano Megan Pisano Design is an interior design company based in Chatham, NJ. Whether you’re in need of a full-house design or a single-room color recommendation (or anything in between), Megan can help you transform your home. Megan works closely with her clients to understand what they’re looking for and creates spaces that are both beautiful as well as functional! She has a love for clean, minimalist designs that are brought to life with art and decor that reflect each client’s personality. Megan’s interest in interior design began at a young age when she found herself rearranging her bedroom furniture every week (a habit that still remains!). She went on to receive an interior design degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and quickly put it to good use after graduation by working as an interior designer for the top Italian Furniture Company, B&B Italia. After 10 years at B&B Italia, Megan decided to go out on her own in 2017 and fulfill her lifelong dream of starting her own company. Megan loves helping her clients create spaces they feel happy in and feels lucky to have a job that she never sees as “work”. She’s also a certified yoga instructor – a passion that helps her bring a calm, relaxed approach to all of her designs and clients. Megan lives in Chatham, NJ with her husband and their 2 young boys. Connect with Megan Pisano Website Instagram  Facebook  Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers. Tue, 15 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Megan Pisano: Instagram for Interior Designers: Engagement Matters More than Followers full 904 LuAnn Nigara Today With Megan Pisano: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that social media can be a great marketing tool—if you can build up a big following. But if you’re struggling to gain a big number of followers, is it even worth the... Today With Megan Pisano: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that social media can be a great marketing tool—if you can build up a big following. But if you’re struggling to gain a big number of followers, is it even worth the time?  My guest today, Megan Pisano, would say the answer is absolutely yes. With under 4,000 Instagram followers, Megan has still managed to put social media to strong use for her business through engagement and relationship building. Learn why engagement matters more than metrics! Pick It Apart [2:27] Megan breaks down how she started using social media for her business.   [15:42] LuAnn and Megan discuss the importance of investing in professional photography.   [16:20] Megan shares the nitty-gritty of her Instagram approach, from content to hashtags.   [33:24] Megan discusses how relationship-building and engagement matter so much on Instagram.   [45:04] Megan and LuAnn talk about the value of referrals, networking, and live events. LuAnn Nigara and Megan Pisano's Ah-Ha Moments “So even though the first time they reach out to you, it's technically a cold lead, it actually is functioning like a warm lead, because the relationship has already begun.” -LuAnn   “You have to post pictures of yourself. People want to know what you look like.” -Megan More About Megan Pisano Megan Pisano Design is an interior design company based in Chatham, NJ. Whether you’re in need of a full-house design or a single-room color recommendation (or anything in between), Megan can help you transform your home. Megan works closely with her clients to understand what they’re looking for and creates spaces that are both beautiful as well as functional! She has a love for clean, minimalist designs that are brought to life with art and decor that reflect each client’s personality. Megan’s interest in interior design began at a young age when she found herself rearranging her bedroom furniture every week (a habit that still remains!). She went on to receive an interior design degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and quickly put it to good use after graduation by working as an interior designer for the top Italian Furniture Company, B&B Italia. After 10 years at B&B Italia, Megan decided to go out on her own in 2017 and fulfill her lifelong dream of starting her own company. Megan loves helping her clients create spaces they feel happy in and feels lucky to have a job that she never sees as “work”. She’s also a certified yoga instructor – a passion that helps her bring a calm, relaxed approach to all of her designs and clients. Megan lives in Chatham, NJ with her husband and their 2 young boys. Connect with Megan Pisano Website Instagram  Facebook  Houzz What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that social media can be a great marketing tool—if you can build up a big following. But if you’re struggling to gain a big number of followers, is it even worth the time? 

My guest today, Megan Pisano, would say the answer is absolutely yes. With under 4,000 Instagram followers, Megan has still managed to put social media to strong use for her business through engagement and relationship building. Learn why engagement matters more than metrics!

Pick It Apart

[2:27] Megan breaks down how she started using social media for her business.

 

[15:42] LuAnn and Megan discuss the importance of investing in professional photography.

 

[16:20] Megan shares the nitty-gritty of her Instagram approach, from content to hashtags.

 

[33:24] Megan discusses how relationship-building and engagement matter so much on Instagram.

 

[45:04] Megan and LuAnn talk about the value of referrals, networking, and live events.

LuAnn Nigara and Megan Pisano's Ah-Ha Moments

“So even though the first time they reach out to you, it's technically a cold lead, it actually is functioning like a warm lead, because the relationship has already begun.” -LuAnn

 

“You have to post pictures of yourself. People want to know what you look like.” -Megan

More About Megan Pisano

Megan Pisano Design is an interior design company based in Chatham, NJ. Whether you’re in need of a full-house design or a single-room color recommendation (or anything in between), Megan can help you transform your home.

Megan works closely with her clients to understand what they’re looking for and creates spaces that are both beautiful as well as functional! She has a love for clean, minimalist designs that are brought to life with art and decor that reflect each client’s personality.

Megan’s interest in interior design began at a young age when she found herself rearranging her bedroom furniture every week (a habit that still remains!). She went on to receive an interior design degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and quickly put it to good use after graduation by working as an interior designer for the top Italian Furniture Company, B&B Italia.

After 10 years at B&B Italia, Megan decided to go out on her own in 2017 and fulfill her lifelong dream of starting her own company.

Megan loves helping her clients create spaces they feel happy in and feels lucky to have a job that she never sees as “work”. She’s also a certified yoga instructor – a passion that helps her bring a calm, relaxed approach to all of her designs and clients.

Megan lives in Chatham, NJ with her husband and their 2 young boys.

Connect with Megan Pisano

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Houzz

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.

#861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers.

]]> 3801 no 903: Power Talk Friday: Adam Stevison: Give Your Clients an Interactive, Luxury Experience at the Home Depot Design Center http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/903-power-talk-friday-adam-stevison-give-your-clients-an-interactive-luxury-experience-at-the-home-depot-design-center Today With Adam Stevison: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Adam Stevison, Luxury Showroom Manager of the newest Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, New Jersey. While the Home Depot has been around for almost 50 years, this new concept is a store-within-a-store, offering an interactive, luxury experience aimed to serve a customer it was unable to before. The Vauxhall location is the third Design Center that the Home Depot has opened, with other locations in San Diego, California, and Rockville, Maryland. In this episode, sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center, Adam tells all about this extraordinary opportunity for designers and their clients. Featuring luxury brands appliances by Monogram, Thermador, Signature Kitchen Suite, and Dacor, the Home Depot Design Center features working vignettes, a team of experts, and end-to-end white glove service handled entirely in-house. Pick It Apart [1:50] Adam explains what the Home Depot Design Centers (HDDC) offer as a full experience center with built-in vignettes all in demo mode featuring. [9:31] Adam and LuAnn discuss how designers can learn about the appliances from the team at the HDDC in order to educate their clients and also bring their clients in to experience the center themselves. [16:28] LuAnn asks Adam to walk through the process of the experience from a designer’s standpoint. [24:02] Adam talks about the white glove service at the HDDC, explaining all of the concierge services that accompany the experience and emphasizing that no part of the process or product is handled by a third party. [32:42] Adam and LuAnn discuss client needs and wants and how the appliances at the HDDC can accommodate a range of budgets and desires. [43:24] Adam encourages designers near the New Jersey location to use the HDDC as a shared workspace with their clients. LuAnn Nigara and Adam Stevison's Ah-Ha Moments “Experience goes a long way.” – Adam Stevison “We can teach a designer that's designing as much as the consumer and the end user.” – Adam Stevison “I know I can't sell what I don't know and I don't understand… So I love that we have this ability to come and really absorb it and grasp it and get the reason for the price tag, what is the value that goes in.” – LuAnn Nigara “Nothing gets handed over at Home Depot Design Center to anything third party at any stage of the game.” – Adam Stevison “Ultimately, this is actually the role in the value of the designer—to be the person that's doing the coordinating among everybody.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Adam Stevison Since starting with The Home Depot in 2001, Adam Stevison has worked in various roles both customer facing and regional support positions. Titles aside, he is an adept salesperson and operations manager, who now oversees the Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ. As a part of a new venture in an established company, that’s over 44 years old, his team in HDDC serve a customer that was unable to before.   Introducing the Home Depot Design Center If the kitchen is the heart of the home, we look forward to being able to match the name recognition of The Home Depot with luxury branded appliances at the Home Depot Design Center to make the kitchen of our client’s dreams come true.  Customers benefit from interacting with the appliances in our luxury showroom to help them decide on products that fit their lifestyle. And through partnerships with designers and the trade, we extend a white glove delivery service, products that are high quality, highly sought after, and suited well for those looking for an elevated experience. Open House at the Home Depot Design Center The best way to learn about the latest features on kitchen appliances is to visit our showroom in Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ. Designers and trade professionals are welcome to our Open House on September 14, 2023. And meet the best-selling author and podcaster: LuAnn Nigara. Visit the event page for details and RSVP to attend. Connect with Adam Stevison Website RVSP to attend the Open House at the Home Depot Design Center! A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center.  Other Shows Mentioned: #31 Steven Cooper – The Value of a Trusted Vendor #536 Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel #608  Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience #794 Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management? Fri, 11 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Adam Stevison: Give Your Clients an Interactive, Luxury Experience at the Home Depot Design Center full 903 LuAnn Nigara Today With Adam Stevison: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Adam Stevison, Luxury Showroom Manager of the newest Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, New Jersey. While the Home Depot has been around for almost 50 years, this new... Today With Adam Stevison: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Adam Stevison, Luxury Showroom Manager of the newest Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, New Jersey. While the Home Depot has been around for almost 50 years, this new concept is a store-within-a-store, offering an interactive, luxury experience aimed to serve a customer it was unable to before. The Vauxhall location is the third Design Center that the Home Depot has opened, with other locations in San Diego, California, and Rockville, Maryland. In this episode, sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center, Adam tells all about this extraordinary opportunity for designers and their clients. Featuring luxury brands appliances by Monogram, Thermador, Signature Kitchen Suite, and Dacor, the Home Depot Design Center features working vignettes, a team of experts, and end-to-end white glove service handled entirely in-house. Pick It Apart [1:50] Adam explains what the Home Depot Design Centers (HDDC) offer as a full experience center with built-in vignettes all in demo mode featuring. [9:31] Adam and LuAnn discuss how designers can learn about the appliances from the team at the HDDC in order to educate their clients and also bring their clients in to experience the center themselves. [16:28] LuAnn asks Adam to walk through the process of the experience from a designer’s standpoint. [24:02] Adam talks about the white glove service at the HDDC, explaining all of the concierge services that accompany the experience and emphasizing that no part of the process or product is handled by a third party. [32:42] Adam and LuAnn discuss client needs and wants and how the appliances at the HDDC can accommodate a range of budgets and desires. [43:24] Adam encourages designers near the New Jersey location to use the HDDC as a shared workspace with their clients. LuAnn Nigara and Adam Stevison's Ah-Ha Moments “Experience goes a long way.” – Adam Stevison “We can teach a designer that's designing as much as the consumer and the end user.” – Adam Stevison “I know I can't sell what I don't know and I don't understand… So I love that we have this ability to come and really absorb it and grasp it and get the reason for the price tag, what is the value that goes in.” – LuAnn Nigara “Nothing gets handed over at Home Depot Design Center to anything third party at any stage of the game.” – Adam Stevison “Ultimately, this is actually the role in the value of the designer—to be the person that's doing the coordinating among everybody.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Adam Stevison Since starting with The Home Depot in 2001, Adam Stevison has worked in various roles both customer facing and regional support positions. Titles aside, he is an adept salesperson and operations manager, who now oversees the Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ. As a part of a new venture in an established company, that’s over 44 years old, his team in HDDC serve a customer that was unable to before.   Introducing the Home Depot Design Center If the kitchen is the heart of the home, we look forward to being able to match the name recognition of The Home Depot with luxury branded appliances at the Home Depot Design Center to make the kitchen of our client’s dreams come true.  Customers benefit from interacting with the appliances in our luxury showroom to help them decide on products that fit their lifestyle. And through partnerships with designers and the trade, we extend a white glove delivery service, products that are high quality, highly sought after, and suited well for those looking for an elevated experience. Open House at the Home Depot Design Center The best way to learn about the latest features on kitchen appliances is to visit our showroom in Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ. Designers and trade professionals are welcome to our Open House on September 14, 2023. And meet the best-selling author and podcaster: LuAnn Nigara. Visit the event page for details and RSVP to attend. Connect with Adam Stevison Website RVSP to attend the Open House at the Home Depot Design Center! A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center.  Other Shows Mentioned: #31 Steven Cooper – The Value of a Trusted Vendor #536 Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel #608  Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience #794 Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management? Today With Adam Stevison:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Adam Stevison, Luxury Showroom Manager of the newest Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, New Jersey. While the Home Depot has been around for almost 50 years, this new concept is a store-within-a-store, offering an interactive, luxury experience aimed to serve a customer it was unable to before. The Vauxhall location is the third Design Center that the Home Depot has opened, with other locations in San Diego, California, and Rockville, Maryland.

In this episode, sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center, Adam tells all about this extraordinary opportunity for designers and their clients. Featuring luxury brands appliances by Monogram, Thermador, Signature Kitchen Suite, and Dacor, the Home Depot Design Center features working vignettes, a team of experts, and end-to-end white glove service handled entirely in-house.

Pick It Apart

[1:50] Adam explains what the Home Depot Design Centers (HDDC) offer as a full experience center with built-in vignettes all in demo mode featuring.

[9:31] Adam and LuAnn discuss how designers can learn about the appliances from the team at the HDDC in order to educate their clients and also bring their clients in to experience the center themselves.

[16:28] LuAnn asks Adam to walk through the process of the experience from a designer’s standpoint.

[24:02] Adam talks about the white glove service at the HDDC, explaining all of the concierge services that accompany the experience and emphasizing that no part of the process or product is handled by a third party.

[32:42] Adam and LuAnn discuss client needs and wants and how the appliances at the HDDC can accommodate a range of budgets and desires.

[43:24] Adam encourages designers near the New Jersey location to use the HDDC as a shared workspace with their clients.

LuAnn Nigara and Adam Stevison's Ah-Ha Moments

“Experience goes a long way.” – Adam Stevison

“We can teach a designer that's designing as much as the consumer and the end user.” – Adam Stevison

“I know I can't sell what I don't know and I don't understand… So I love that we have this ability to come and really absorb it and grasp it and get the reason for the price tag, what is the value that goes in.” – LuAnn Nigara

“Nothing gets handed over at Home Depot Design Center to anything third party at any stage of the game.” – Adam Stevison

“Ultimately, this is actually the role in the value of the designer—to be the person that's doing the coordinating among everybody.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Adam Stevison

Since starting with The Home Depot in 2001, Adam Stevison has worked in various roles both customer facing and regional support positions. Titles aside, he is an adept salesperson and operations manager, who now oversees the Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ.

As a part of a new venture in an established company, that’s over 44 years old, his team in HDDC serve a customer that was unable to before.  

Introducing the Home Depot Design Center

If the kitchen is the heart of the home, we look forward to being able to match the name recognition of The Home Depot with luxury branded appliances at the Home Depot Design Center to make the kitchen of our client’s dreams come true. 

Customers benefit from interacting with the appliances in our luxury showroom to help them decide on products that fit their lifestyle. And through partnerships with designers and the trade, we extend a white glove delivery service, products that are high quality, highly sought after, and suited well for those looking for an elevated experience.

Open House at the Home Depot Design Center

The best way to learn about the latest features on kitchen appliances is to visit our showroom in Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ.

Designers and trade professionals are welcome to our Open House on September 14, 2023. And meet the best-selling author and podcaster: LuAnn Nigara.

Visit the event page for details and RSVP to attend.

Connect with Adam Stevison

Website

RVSP to attend the Open House at the Home Depot Design Center!

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center. 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#31 Steven Cooper – The Value of a Trusted Vendor

#536 Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel

#608  Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience

#794 Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management?

]]> 3296 no 902: Rama Dandamudi: Why Predictability Matters More than Pricing for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/902-rama-dandamudi-why-predictability-matters-more-than-pricing-for-interior-designers Today With Rama Dandamudi: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the value of relationships in business—but what about the HOW? How are people going about building solid business relationships that make a difference? My guest today, Rama Dandamudi, is someone who believes in relationships. Rama is here today to talk about predictability—specifically why predictability matters more than pricing. But as you’ll hear in this conversation, the way you create predictability is by focusing on relationships. Pick It Apart [5:39] Rama and LuAnn talk about the importance of execution. [10:56] Rama shares why being predictable matters. [17:06] Rama discusses how relationship-building ensures successful projects. [27:24] Rama and LuAnn talk about how to handle tough situations and conversations in business. [39:58] Rama and LuAnn discuss why a personal touch matters. LuAnn Nigara and Rama Dandamudi's Ah-Ha Moments “Establish a reputation of being reliable and being consistent and being predictable. Not only will vendors want to come and work with you, but eventually clients will bring more work to you.” -Rama   “You've taken basically, the qualities of your typical mom-and-pop shop of why that business is important in a community. And you've taken those exact same principles and put it on the global scale that your business lives on.” -LuAnn More About Rama Dandamudi I am a Chicago-based entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience creating and managing businesses within the residential design industry. Currently, I am the president and founder of 210 Design House, a lifestyle showroom offering a curated collection of internationally acclaimed, high-end interiors products (including Snaidero, MisuraEmme, Plain & Fancy, Glas Italia, Arflex, Wall&decó, and Milldue noorth and Vitage).  For more than 25 years, my team and I have brought functional luxury and unique design to life in both single-family and multi-unit residential projects across Chicago and the country. In addition, I have spent the past two decades developing partnerships with international luxury brands and bringing them to the U.S. market, while remaining active with charitable organizations focused on child welfare and education. Prior to entering the design world, I was a board certified surgeon at Cook County Hospital for nearly 20 years. Connect with Rama Dandamudi Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way  #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business  Tue, 08 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Rama Dandamudi: Why Predictability Matters More than Pricing for Interior Designers full 902 LuAnn Nigara Today With Rama Dandamudi: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the value of relationships in business—but what about the HOW? How are people going about building solid business relationships that make a difference? My guest today,... Today With Rama Dandamudi: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the value of relationships in business—but what about the HOW? How are people going about building solid business relationships that make a difference? My guest today, Rama Dandamudi, is someone who believes in relationships. Rama is here today to talk about predictability—specifically why predictability matters more than pricing. But as you’ll hear in this conversation, the way you create predictability is by focusing on relationships. Pick It Apart [5:39] Rama and LuAnn talk about the importance of execution. [10:56] Rama shares why being predictable matters. [17:06] Rama discusses how relationship-building ensures successful projects. [27:24] Rama and LuAnn talk about how to handle tough situations and conversations in business. [39:58] Rama and LuAnn discuss why a personal touch matters. LuAnn Nigara and Rama Dandamudi's Ah-Ha Moments “Establish a reputation of being reliable and being consistent and being predictable. Not only will vendors want to come and work with you, but eventually clients will bring more work to you.” -Rama   “You've taken basically, the qualities of your typical mom-and-pop shop of why that business is important in a community. And you've taken those exact same principles and put it on the global scale that your business lives on.” -LuAnn More About Rama Dandamudi I am a Chicago-based entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience creating and managing businesses within the residential design industry. Currently, I am the president and founder of 210 Design House, a lifestyle showroom offering a curated collection of internationally acclaimed, high-end interiors products (including Snaidero, MisuraEmme, Plain & Fancy, Glas Italia, Arflex, Wall&decó, and Milldue noorth and Vitage).  For more than 25 years, my team and I have brought functional luxury and unique design to life in both single-family and multi-unit residential projects across Chicago and the country. In addition, I have spent the past two decades developing partnerships with international luxury brands and bringing them to the U.S. market, while remaining active with charitable organizations focused on child welfare and education. Prior to entering the design world, I was a board certified surgeon at Cook County Hospital for nearly 20 years. Connect with Rama Dandamudi Website Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way  #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the value of relationships in business—but what about the HOW? How are people going about building solid business relationships that make a difference?

My guest today, Rama Dandamudi, is someone who believes in relationships. Rama is here today to talk about predictability—specifically why predictability matters more than pricing. But as you’ll hear in this conversation, the way you create predictability is by focusing on relationships.

Pick It Apart [5:39] Rama and LuAnn talk about the importance of execution. [10:56] Rama shares why being predictable matters. [17:06] Rama discusses how relationship-building ensures successful projects. [27:24] Rama and LuAnn talk about how to handle tough situations and conversations in business. [39:58] Rama and LuAnn discuss why a personal touch matters. LuAnn Nigara and Rama Dandamudi's Ah-Ha Moments

“Establish a reputation of being reliable and being consistent and being predictable. Not only will vendors want to come and work with you, but eventually clients will bring more work to you.” -Rama

 

“You've taken basically, the qualities of your typical mom-and-pop shop of why that business is important in a community. And you've taken those exact same principles and put it on the global scale that your business lives on.” -LuAnn

More About Rama Dandamudi

I am a Chicago-based entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience creating and managing businesses within the residential design industry. Currently, I am the president and founder of 210 Design House, a lifestyle showroom offering a curated collection of internationally acclaimed, high-end interiors products (including Snaidero, MisuraEmme, Plain & Fancy, Glas Italia, Arflex, Wall&decó, and Milldue noorth and Vitage). 

For more than 25 years, my team and I have brought functional luxury and unique design to life in both single-family and multi-unit residential projects across Chicago and the country. In addition, I have spent the past two decades developing partnerships with international luxury brands and bringing them to the U.S. market, while remaining active with charitable organizations focused on child welfare and education. Prior to entering the design world, I was a board certified surgeon at Cook County Hospital for nearly 20 years.

Connect with Rama Dandamudi

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way 

#753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business 

]]> 3571 no 901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/901-power-talk-friday-anna-nelson-the-power-of-being-a-strengths-based-entrepreneur Today With Anna Nelson: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I welcome my friend Anna Nelson. I met Anna in September 2022 at the HPS. Out of the 60 or so people that were there, Anna was the first person I immediately connected with. In the episode you will hear her say that this is her strength, connecting with people on a deeper level, and I can personally vouch for that.  Anna is here to talk about how she helps entrepreneurs find and use their own strengths to get focused and aligned in their businesses. Pick It Apart [8:10] Anna explains the importance of appreciating the value of your ideas in relation to benefitting your business.  [12:15] How your client can have an impact on utilizing and recognizing your strengths. [13:50] Anna shares for people not ready to invest, how they can recognize their strengths on their own. [22:20] Anna shares an example of when it clicks for a client recognizing their strength and utilizing that to better their business.   [29:20] Anna can also benefit experienced designers and window treatment professionals who have been in the business for years. LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson's Ah-Ha Moments “As a designer you can design a room, but how you approach designing that room will be different than someone else through your strength. It comes down to understanding what sets you apart in your industry.” - Anna Nelson “If you don’t appreciate the value of your ideas and why they set you apart from someone else then you don’t know how to use them in a way that can benefit your business.” - Anna Nelson More About Anna Nelson Anna Nelson, MBA, ACC is a coach and speaker on a mission to help 10,000 entrepreneurs get focused and aligned in their businesses. She spent 18 years working in the corporate worlds of the financial, retail and marketing industries before embarking on her own entrepreneurial dream of helping people reach their goals by first understanding their strengths. She’s coached hundreds of individuals from solopreneurs starting their businesses to 7-figure entrepreneurs with a team helping them get crystal clear on what each individual brings to their business and their clients. She loves nothing more than talking with a stranger and getting them excited to pursue the unknown and make their dreams a reality. Connect with Anna Nelson Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: # 174- Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours # 811- Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Fri, 04 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur full 901 LuAnn Nigara Today With Anna Nelson: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I welcome my friend Anna Nelson. I met Anna in September 2022 at the HPS. Out of the 60 or so people that were there, Anna was the first person I immediately connected with. In the episode you... Today With Anna Nelson: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I welcome my friend Anna Nelson. I met Anna in September 2022 at the HPS. Out of the 60 or so people that were there, Anna was the first person I immediately connected with. In the episode you will hear her say that this is her strength, connecting with people on a deeper level, and I can personally vouch for that.  Anna is here to talk about how she helps entrepreneurs find and use their own strengths to get focused and aligned in their businesses. Pick It Apart [8:10] Anna explains the importance of appreciating the value of your ideas in relation to benefitting your business.  [12:15] How your client can have an impact on utilizing and recognizing your strengths. [13:50] Anna shares for people not ready to invest, how they can recognize their strengths on their own. [22:20] Anna shares an example of when it clicks for a client recognizing their strength and utilizing that to better their business.   [29:20] Anna can also benefit experienced designers and window treatment professionals who have been in the business for years. LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson's Ah-Ha Moments “As a designer you can design a room, but how you approach designing that room will be different than someone else through your strength. It comes down to understanding what sets you apart in your industry.” - Anna Nelson “If you don’t appreciate the value of your ideas and why they set you apart from someone else then you don’t know how to use them in a way that can benefit your business.” - Anna Nelson More About Anna Nelson Anna Nelson, MBA, ACC is a coach and speaker on a mission to help 10,000 entrepreneurs get focused and aligned in their businesses. She spent 18 years working in the corporate worlds of the financial, retail and marketing industries before embarking on her own entrepreneurial dream of helping people reach their goals by first understanding their strengths. She’s coached hundreds of individuals from solopreneurs starting their businesses to 7-figure entrepreneurs with a team helping them get crystal clear on what each individual brings to their business and their clients. She loves nothing more than talking with a stranger and getting them excited to pursue the unknown and make their dreams a reality. Connect with Anna Nelson Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: # 174- Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours # 811- Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate Today on A Well-Designed Business, I welcome my friend Anna Nelson. I met Anna in September 2022 at the HPS. Out of the 60 or so people that were there, Anna was the first person I immediately connected with. In the episode you will hear her say that this is her strength, connecting with people on a deeper level, and I can personally vouch for that. 

Anna is here to talk about how she helps entrepreneurs find and use their own strengths to get focused and aligned in their businesses.

Pick It Apart

[8:10] Anna explains the importance of appreciating the value of your ideas in relation to benefitting your business. 

[12:15] How your client can have an impact on utilizing and recognizing your strengths.

[13:50] Anna shares for people not ready to invest, how they can recognize their strengths on their own.

[22:20] Anna shares an example of when it clicks for a client recognizing their strength and utilizing that to better their business.  

[29:20] Anna can also benefit experienced designers and window treatment professionals who have been in the business for years.

LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson's Ah-Ha Moments

“As a designer you can design a room, but how you approach designing that room will be different than someone else through your strength. It comes down to understanding what sets you apart in your industry.” - Anna Nelson

“If you don’t appreciate the value of your ideas and why they set you apart from someone else then you don’t know how to use them in a way that can benefit your business.” - Anna Nelson

More About Anna Nelson

Anna Nelson, MBA, ACC is a coach and speaker on a mission to help 10,000 entrepreneurs get focused and aligned in their businesses. She spent 18 years working in the corporate worlds of the financial, retail and marketing industries before embarking on her own entrepreneurial dream of helping people reach their goals by first understanding their strengths.

She’s coached hundreds of individuals from solopreneurs starting their businesses to 7-figure entrepreneurs with a team helping them get crystal clear on what each individual brings to their business and their clients. She loves nothing more than talking with a stranger and getting them excited to pursue the unknown and make their dreams a reality.

Connect with Anna Nelson

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

# 174- Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

# 811- Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

]]> 3442 no 900: Sara Hamza: Building a Design Business Aligned with My Fred Berns "Only" http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/900-sara-hamza-building-a-design-business-aligned-with-my-fred-berns-only Today With Sara Hamza: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Hamza, a Danish-Egyptian designer and the founder of Nina June, a custom furniture and styling brand. Based in Cairo, Egypt, Sara operates her business from a place of compassion, genuinely seeking to know and understand her clients so she can serve them better.  Sara is sharing how being diagnosed with RA as a teenager impacted her life and career, how she currently defines success, and what listening to the podcast for the past few years has taught her. Pick It Apart [6:33] Sara talks about how she operates her design business in Egypt and how the podcast has helped answer many questions she has along the way. [12:17] LuAnn and Sara discuss why connecting to your clients with compassion is important, and how Sara’s medical history has informed this lesson in her business. [19:34] Sara explains how being diagnosed with RA forced her to make difficult choices, prioritize her activities, and delegate from a young age, which all serve her in her business now.  [24:49] Sara tells LuAnn that she learned to define her own success by listening to the podcast. [32:31] Sara describes her furniture lines and what she offers at Nina June. [36:22] LuAnn and Sara discuss how her Danish and Egyptian roots contribute to her character and influence her designs. [49:36] LuAnn and Sara talk about the importance of wellness, in life and in order to sustain a successful business. LuAnn Nigara and Sara Hamza's Ah-Ha Moments “Compassion means that you're actually willing to do something about it, versus empathy—where you just feel with a person.” – Sara Hamza “People really pick up when someone is genuine, and when someone is reliable and trustworthy. And when your client sits in front of you and feels that—you're booked on the spot.” – Sara Hamza “We're not looking for something so far away—we're looking for something that's truly part of us…What is my real “why” here?” – LuAnn Nigara “I think much of the maturity that I've obtained the last three years is because I had to look inward.” – Sara Hamza “If we want to change ten things, we have to start with actually changing one thing.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Sara Hamza Sara Hamza landed her first job, painting seashells for a gift shop, when she was just 12 years old—it was the spark that kindled her desire for a creative career. At the time, she had no idea which area her artistic flair would lead her but throughout her rigid education, she craved an outlet that would release her imagination. Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1985 to an Egyptian father and Danish mother, she lived a family-oriented daily life that would seem unsophisticated compared to life in other capital cities. After completing German school, she studied architecture at the Fine Arts University in Cairo while applying for a Design and Innovation course in Denmark.  Perhaps she is an overachiever, because not only did Sara complete her design course, but also began her first design-related job whilst studying.  Coordinating between a Danish designer and an Egyptian manufacturer, she got her first opportunity to visit a tradeshow in Stockholm, an experience that filled her with awe and strengthened her ambition even further. Following her graduation, Sara returned to Cairo where she was fortunate enough to get a job with award-winning designer Karim Mekhtigian at Alchemy. She worked there for three years, garnering experience, and pursuing other design enterprises, such as the design and manufacture of her well-known flip-flop brand Shibshibi.  Sara decided it was time to stand alone so she left Alchemy spending some time designing her own home and taking on projects for acquaintances and a growing number of clients. Increasingly, she took the time to sit with clients and understand their backgrounds, struggles and dreams before designing for them. It became a truly satisfying part of her work and she found that knowledge of a client’s story gave her an instinct for what they would find both comfortable and comforting in her designs. Alongside the projects for her new clients, she took on designing a furniture collection for a well-known brand, C-Reality. At Egypt’s largest trade show, her collection was received well by the crowd and fellow designers—an immense thrill for Sara. Since then, Sara has taken part in several design workshops, including the D+I workshop, which was one of the first design workshops in Egypt, where she exhibited her ‘drop table-lamp’ at one of Egypt’s most historic neighborhoods, Moez street. In 2013, she started her second brand, House of Vintage. It evolved from an idea inspired by her love of mid-century Scandinavian furniture which she enjoyed rooting out at markets in Denmark, Sweden and Germany. She began to ship her finds to Egypt, refurbishing and selling them. This business kept her busy while her next idea for what she really wished to do germinated and she got the courage to begin her own brand of furniture design and home styling. Nina June’s first collection was well-received when it launched in November 2019. It combined a perfect blend: Scandinavian look and feel, vintage touches, and the warmth of Egypt. The Nina June style was a celebration of simplicity and cosiness, with just a breath of luxury that pampered its clients, so when Coronavirus hit Egypt straight after the launch in January 2020 it seemed that everyone would be home forever. However, contrary to all expectations, Sara was able to take part in a pro bono program, where designers performed free online home makeovers for people who would not normally think, or indeed be able to afford, to have their homes redesigned. It was this step which promoted her home-styling career. The Nina June brand is all about collaboration and since February 2020, when Sara launched her wood workshop and office with her new partner, the brand has collaborated with wallpaper designers, metal sculptors, pattern artists and mosaic artists, to name but a few. She can offer furniture production services to designers, directly to customers, or a full home-package consultation. The individual creative vision of so many artists and their ability to discuss and benefit from each other’s knowledge and ideas stimulates the brand keeping it fresh and inspired. Today the workshop houses eight carpenters with a team of six in the office and it is still growing. Connect with Sara Hamza Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level #720: FlashBack Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life #896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris #897: Power Talk Friday: Adrien Cotton: Design Your Midlife Wellness for Confidence Tue, 01 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Sara Hamza: Building a Design Business Aligned with My Fred Berns "Only" full 900 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sara Hamza: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Hamza, a Danish-Egyptian designer and the founder of Nina June, a custom furniture and styling brand. Based in Cairo, Egypt, Sara operates her business from a place of... Today With Sara Hamza: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Hamza, a Danish-Egyptian designer and the founder of Nina June, a custom furniture and styling brand. Based in Cairo, Egypt, Sara operates her business from a place of compassion, genuinely seeking to know and understand her clients so she can serve them better.  Sara is sharing how being diagnosed with RA as a teenager impacted her life and career, how she currently defines success, and what listening to the podcast for the past few years has taught her. Pick It Apart [6:33] Sara talks about how she operates her design business in Egypt and how the podcast has helped answer many questions she has along the way. [12:17] LuAnn and Sara discuss why connecting to your clients with compassion is important, and how Sara’s medical history has informed this lesson in her business. [19:34] Sara explains how being diagnosed with RA forced her to make difficult choices, prioritize her activities, and delegate from a young age, which all serve her in her business now.  [24:49] Sara tells LuAnn that she learned to define her own success by listening to the podcast. [32:31] Sara describes her furniture lines and what she offers at Nina June. [36:22] LuAnn and Sara discuss how her Danish and Egyptian roots contribute to her character and influence her designs. [49:36] LuAnn and Sara talk about the importance of wellness, in life and in order to sustain a successful business. LuAnn Nigara and Sara Hamza's Ah-Ha Moments “Compassion means that you're actually willing to do something about it, versus empathy—where you just feel with a person.” – Sara Hamza “People really pick up when someone is genuine, and when someone is reliable and trustworthy. And when your client sits in front of you and feels that—you're booked on the spot.” – Sara Hamza “We're not looking for something so far away—we're looking for something that's truly part of us…What is my real “why” here?” – LuAnn Nigara “I think much of the maturity that I've obtained the last three years is because I had to look inward.” – Sara Hamza “If we want to change ten things, we have to start with actually changing one thing.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Sara Hamza Sara Hamza landed her first job, painting seashells for a gift shop, when she was just 12 years old—it was the spark that kindled her desire for a creative career. At the time, she had no idea which area her artistic flair would lead her but throughout her rigid education, she craved an outlet that would release her imagination. Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1985 to an Egyptian father and Danish mother, she lived a family-oriented daily life that would seem unsophisticated compared to life in other capital cities. After completing German school, she studied architecture at the Fine Arts University in Cairo while applying for a Design and Innovation course in Denmark.  Perhaps she is an overachiever, because not only did Sara complete her design course, but also began her first design-related job whilst studying.  Coordinating between a Danish designer and an Egyptian manufacturer, she got her first opportunity to visit a tradeshow in Stockholm, an experience that filled her with awe and strengthened her ambition even further. Following her graduation, Sara returned to Cairo where she was fortunate enough to get a job with award-winning designer Karim Mekhtigian at Alchemy. She worked there for three years, garnering experience, and pursuing other design enterprises, such as the design and manufacture of her well-known flip-flop brand Shibshibi.  Sara decided it was time to stand alone so she left Alchemy spending some time designing her own home and taking on projects for acquaintances and a growing number of clients. Increasingly, she took the time to sit with clients and understand their backgrounds, struggles and dreams before designing for them. It became a truly satisfying part of her work and she found that knowledge of a client’s story gave her an instinct for what they would find both comfortable and comforting in her designs. Alongside the projects for her new clients, she took on designing a furniture collection for a well-known brand, C-Reality. At Egypt’s largest trade show, her collection was received well by the crowd and fellow designers—an immense thrill for Sara. Since then, Sara has taken part in several design workshops, including the D+I workshop, which was one of the first design workshops in Egypt, where she exhibited her ‘drop table-lamp’ at one of Egypt’s most historic neighborhoods, Moez street. In 2013, she started her second brand, House of Vintage. It evolved from an idea inspired by her love of mid-century Scandinavian furniture which she enjoyed rooting out at markets in Denmark, Sweden and Germany. She began to ship her finds to Egypt, refurbishing and selling them. This business kept her busy while her next idea for what she really wished to do germinated and she got the courage to begin her own brand of furniture design and home styling. Nina June’s first collection was well-received when it launched in November 2019. It combined a perfect blend: Scandinavian look and feel, vintage touches, and the warmth of Egypt. The Nina June style was a celebration of simplicity and cosiness, with just a breath of luxury that pampered its clients, so when Coronavirus hit Egypt straight after the launch in January 2020 it seemed that everyone would be home forever. However, contrary to all expectations, Sara was able to take part in a pro bono program, where designers performed free online home makeovers for people who would not normally think, or indeed be able to afford, to have their homes redesigned. It was this step which promoted her home-styling career. The Nina June brand is all about collaboration and since February 2020, when Sara launched her wood workshop and office with her new partner, the brand has collaborated with wallpaper designers, metal sculptors, pattern artists and mosaic artists, to name but a few. She can offer furniture production services to designers, directly to customers, or a full home-package consultation. The individual creative vision of so many artists and their ability to discuss and benefit from each other’s knowledge and ideas stimulates the brand keeping it fresh and inspired. Today the workshop houses eight carpenters with a team of six in the office and it is still growing. Connect with Sara Hamza Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level #720: FlashBack Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life #896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris #897: Power Talk Friday: Adrien Cotton: Design Your Midlife Wellness for Confidence Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Hamza, a Danish-Egyptian designer and the founder of Nina June, a custom furniture and styling brand. Based in Cairo, Egypt, Sara operates her business from a place of compassion, genuinely seeking to know and understand her clients so she can serve them better. 

Sara is sharing how being diagnosed with RA as a teenager impacted her life and career, how she currently defines success, and what listening to the podcast for the past few years has taught her.

Pick It Apart

[6:33] Sara talks about how she operates her design business in Egypt and how the podcast has helped answer many questions she has along the way.

[12:17] LuAnn and Sara discuss why connecting to your clients with compassion is important, and how Sara’s medical history has informed this lesson in her business.

[19:34] Sara explains how being diagnosed with RA forced her to make difficult choices, prioritize her activities, and delegate from a young age, which all serve her in her business now. 

[24:49] Sara tells LuAnn that she learned to define her own success by listening to the podcast.

[32:31] Sara describes her furniture lines and what she offers at Nina June.

[36:22] LuAnn and Sara discuss how her Danish and Egyptian roots contribute to her character and influence her designs.

[49:36] LuAnn and Sara talk about the importance of wellness, in life and in order to sustain a successful business.

LuAnn Nigara and Sara Hamza's Ah-Ha Moments

“Compassion means that you're actually willing to do something about it, versus empathy—where you just feel with a person.” – Sara Hamza

“People really pick up when someone is genuine, and when someone is reliable and trustworthy. And when your client sits in front of you and feels that—you're booked on the spot.” – Sara Hamza

“We're not looking for something so far away—we're looking for something that's truly part of us…What is my real “why” here?” – LuAnn Nigara

“I think much of the maturity that I've obtained the last three years is because I had to look inward.” – Sara Hamza

“If we want to change ten things, we have to start with actually changing one thing.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Sara Hamza

Sara Hamza landed her first job, painting seashells for a gift shop, when she was just 12 years old—it was the spark that kindled her desire for a creative career. At the time, she had no idea which area her artistic flair would lead her but throughout her rigid education, she craved an outlet that would release her imagination.

Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1985 to an Egyptian father and Danish mother, she lived a family-oriented daily life that would seem unsophisticated compared to life in other capital cities. After completing German school, she studied architecture at the Fine Arts University in Cairo while applying for a Design and Innovation course in Denmark. 

Perhaps she is an overachiever, because not only did Sara complete her design course, but also began her first design-related job whilst studying.  Coordinating between a Danish designer and an Egyptian manufacturer, she got her first opportunity to visit a tradeshow in Stockholm, an experience that filled her with awe and strengthened her ambition even further.

Following her graduation, Sara returned to Cairo where she was fortunate enough to get a job with award-winning designer Karim Mekhtigian at Alchemy. She worked there for three years, garnering experience, and pursuing other design enterprises, such as the design and manufacture of her well-known flip-flop brand Shibshibi. 

Sara decided it was time to stand alone so she left Alchemy spending some time designing her own home and taking on projects for acquaintances and a growing number of clients. Increasingly, she took the time to sit with clients and understand their backgrounds, struggles and dreams before designing for them. It became a truly satisfying part of her work and she found that knowledge of a client’s story gave her an instinct for what they would find both comfortable and comforting in her designs. Alongside the projects for her new clients, she took on designing a furniture collection for a well-known brand, C-Reality. At Egypt’s largest trade show, her collection was received well by the crowd and fellow designers—an immense thrill for Sara.

Since then, Sara has taken part in several design workshops, including the D+I workshop, which was one of the first design workshops in Egypt, where she exhibited her ‘drop table-lamp’ at one of Egypt’s most historic neighborhoods, Moez street.

In 2013, she started her second brand, House of Vintage. It evolved from an idea inspired by her love of mid-century Scandinavian furniture which she enjoyed rooting out at markets in Denmark, Sweden and Germany. She began to ship her finds to Egypt, refurbishing and selling them. This business kept her busy while her next idea for what she really wished to do germinated and she got the courage to begin her own brand of furniture design and home styling.

Nina June’s first collection was well-received when it launched in November 2019. It combined a perfect blend: Scandinavian look and feel, vintage touches, and the warmth of Egypt. The Nina June style was a celebration of simplicity and cosiness, with just a breath of luxury that pampered its clients, so when Coronavirus hit Egypt straight after the launch in January 2020 it seemed that everyone would be home forever. However, contrary to all expectations, Sara was able to take part in a pro bono program, where designers performed free online home makeovers for people who would not normally think, or indeed be able to afford, to have their homes redesigned. It was this step which promoted her home-styling career.

The Nina June brand is all about collaboration and since February 2020, when Sara launched her wood workshop and office with her new partner, the brand has collaborated with wallpaper designers, metal sculptors, pattern artists and mosaic artists, to name but a few. She can offer furniture production services to designers, directly to customers, or a full home-package consultation. The individual creative vision of so many artists and their ability to discuss and benefit from each other’s knowledge and ideas stimulates the brand keeping it fresh and inspired. Today the workshop houses eight carpenters with a team of six in the office and it is still growing.

Connect with Sara Hamza

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level

#720: FlashBack Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche

#811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

#840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

#896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris

#897: Power Talk Friday: Adrien Cotton: Design Your Midlife Wellness for Confidence

]]> 4250 no 899: Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/899-power-talk-friday-janine-aurichio-the-inside-job-3-keys-to-calm-clear-and-joyful-creativity Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease.  We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice. Pick It Apart [6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?” [9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves?  [14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything. [20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur. [36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers. LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments “If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio  “The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara “The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara More About Janine Aurichio Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat. Connect with Janine Aurichio Website Blog LinkedIn Instagram Saboteur Assessment Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business. Fri, 28 Jul 2023 15:41:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity full 899 LuAnn Nigara Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design... Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease.  We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice. Pick It Apart [6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?” [9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves?  [14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything. [20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur. [36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers. LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments “If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio  “The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara “The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara More About Janine Aurichio Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat. Connect with Janine Aurichio Website Blog LinkedIn Instagram Saboteur Assessment Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease. 

We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice.

Pick It Apart

[6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?”

[9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves? 

[14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything.

[20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur.

[36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers.

LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio 

“The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara

“The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Janine Aurichio

Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat.

Connect with Janine Aurichio

Website

Blog

LinkedIn

Instagram

Saboteur Assessment

Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

#881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business.

]]> 4257 no 899: Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/899-power-talk-friday-janine-aurichio-the-inside-job-3-keys-to-calm-clear-and-joyful-creativity-0 Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease.  We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice. Pick It Apart [6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?” [9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves?  [14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything. [20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur. [36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers. LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments “If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio  “The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara “The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara More About Janine Aurichio Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat. Connect with Janine Aurichio Website Blog LinkedIn Instagram Saboteur Assessment Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business. Fri, 28 Jul 2023 13:40:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Janine Aurichio: The Inside Job: 3 Keys to Calm, Clear, and Joyful Creativity full 899 LuAnn Nigara Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design... Today With Janine Aurichio: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease.  We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice. Pick It Apart [6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?” [9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves?  [14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything. [20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur. [36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers. LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments “If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio  “The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara “The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara More About Janine Aurichio Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat. Connect with Janine Aurichio Website Blog LinkedIn Instagram Saboteur Assessment Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday, I am joined by Janine Aurichio, Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM which creates the mindset and mental fitness needed to run their business with clarity, purpose, and ease. 

We are discussing something we all have in common, no matter where we come from; inner voices, or what she calls your inner Sage and Saboteur. It’s a battle. And Janine is here to guide us on how to do the inner work to intercept our negative Saboteur voice.

Pick It Apart

[6:40]  Does our environment add to the intensity of our negative thoughts, or Saboteur?”

[9:09] Why do we focus on the negative thoughts and stories we tell ourselves? 

[14:00] How the impact of the inner Saboteur impacts everything.

[20:48] Janine talks about the Positive Intelligence Framework and the exercises we can do to shift out of the negative mindset, or Saboteur.

[36:25] Janine tells us about the free Saboteur assessment she offers.

LuAnn Nigara and Janine Aurichio's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you want to reach your highest levels of performance with lasting peace of mind, you have to deal with the inside stuff.” - Janine Aurichio 

“The stories in our head are made up, so why do we put so much emphasis on it?” - LuAnn Nigara

“The Saboteur is indulging itself in emotion and reacting. The Sage empathizes, thinks, and taps into the positive.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Janine Aurichio

Janine Aurichio, MBA, WPCC, MIM, is a Certified Life Coach, Mental Fitness Coach, Speaker, and Founder of YES2YUM Life Styling. A former designer and recovering perfectionist, Janine coaches design professionals on The Inside JobTM of creating the mindset and mental fitness to run their business with clarity, purpose and ease. Using her signature Life Styling approach, her clients go from stress and overwhelm to calm, clear and creative. Her 35-year journey from type-A executive to type-Me coach informs her work with stressed entrepreneurs, and helps them achieve peak performance with maximum peace-of-mind and heart. With Beauty as her #1 core value, Janine’s purpose is to be part of the healing of the world by supporting the Beauty-makers. She is an avid hiker and scuba diver, and a native New Yorker living in northern California with her rescue dog and cat.

Connect with Janine Aurichio

Website

Blog

LinkedIn

Instagram

Saboteur Assessment

Schedule a free 30-Minute Saboteur Consultation

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

#881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business.

]]> 4257 no 898: Jillian Lare: An Engineer-Turned-Designer’s Take on Tech http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/898-jillian-lare-tech-you-can-use-to-run-your-design-firm Today With Jillian Lare: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined once again by Jillian Lare, a trained engineer, experienced college lecturer, and award-winning interior designer. A few years ago, Jillian partnered with her friend and fellow designer to start Morris Lare Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa, and it has been a growing success. Jillian credits a lot of her success and smooth business operations to the technology she implements. She is sharing what is working well in her business, along with suggestions on where to get started integrating technology into your businesses as well. She’s also got a great prompt if you want ChatGPT to create a great Spotify playlist just for you. Pick It Apart [4:12] Jillian explains how she uses various project management software platforms in her firm. [19:04] Jillian shares how her team does a daily check in each morning on Slack to stay up to date on their priorities without having to meet in person.  [27:20] LuAnn and Jillian discuss tracking time and expenses within the project management systems and by using the app Harvest. [30:07] Jillian talks about how she is using Milanote. [44:03] LuAnn shares her thoughts on naming conventions and how these need to be thought through at the beginning so they are easily searchable. [48:33] Jillian explains why she uses DesignSpec to keep a record of all of their specs in one database. [54:16] LuAnn and Jillian discuss using AI for idea generation, making a great Spotify playlist, and prompting Midjourney. LuAnn Nigara and Jillian Lare's Ah-Ha Moments “I'm about just get something that works. And email is not the answer.” – LuAnn Nigara “f it's not easy to do, it doesn't matter how good it is. It's not going to get done.” – LuAnn Nigara “I just want everything to be accessible wherever I am. The minute it's like not accessible is when I'm kind of like start to lose interest in it, because we're just out and about so much.” – Jillian Lare “Every time you enter the same information in multiple places, that's an opportunity to get it wrong.” – Jillian Lare More About Jillian Lare Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling. Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo. Connect with Jillian Lare Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership #506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership #544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager #870: Jillian Lare: Processes to Know Your Numbers #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Asana InDesign Basecamp Dropbox Slack Voxer Harvest Studio Designer MyDoma Studio Milanote Pinterest Instagram Canva Google Suite Chief Architect Calendly Type Form Design Spec ChatGPT Midjourney Books: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg Atomic Habits by James Clear Tue, 25 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jillian Lare: An Engineer-Turned-Designer’s Take on Tech full 898 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jillian Lare: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined once again by Jillian Lare, a trained engineer, experienced college lecturer, and award-winning interior designer. A few years ago, Jillian partnered with her friend and fellow... Today With Jillian Lare: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined once again by Jillian Lare, a trained engineer, experienced college lecturer, and award-winning interior designer. A few years ago, Jillian partnered with her friend and fellow designer to start Morris Lare Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa, and it has been a growing success. Jillian credits a lot of her success and smooth business operations to the technology she implements. She is sharing what is working well in her business, along with suggestions on where to get started integrating technology into your businesses as well. She’s also got a great prompt if you want ChatGPT to create a great Spotify playlist just for you. Pick It Apart [4:12] Jillian explains how she uses various project management software platforms in her firm. [19:04] Jillian shares how her team does a daily check in each morning on Slack to stay up to date on their priorities without having to meet in person.  [27:20] LuAnn and Jillian discuss tracking time and expenses within the project management systems and by using the app Harvest. [30:07] Jillian talks about how she is using Milanote. [44:03] LuAnn shares her thoughts on naming conventions and how these need to be thought through at the beginning so they are easily searchable. [48:33] Jillian explains why she uses DesignSpec to keep a record of all of their specs in one database. [54:16] LuAnn and Jillian discuss using AI for idea generation, making a great Spotify playlist, and prompting Midjourney. LuAnn Nigara and Jillian Lare's Ah-Ha Moments “I'm about just get something that works. And email is not the answer.” – LuAnn Nigara “f it's not easy to do, it doesn't matter how good it is. It's not going to get done.” – LuAnn Nigara “I just want everything to be accessible wherever I am. The minute it's like not accessible is when I'm kind of like start to lose interest in it, because we're just out and about so much.” – Jillian Lare “Every time you enter the same information in multiple places, that's an opportunity to get it wrong.” – Jillian Lare More About Jillian Lare Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling. Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo. Connect with Jillian Lare Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership #506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership #544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager #870: Jillian Lare: Processes to Know Your Numbers #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers Other Resources Mentioned: Asana InDesign Basecamp Dropbox Slack Voxer Harvest Studio Designer MyDoma Studio Milanote Pinterest Instagram Canva Google Suite Chief Architect Calendly Type Form Design Spec ChatGPT Midjourney Books: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg Atomic Habits by James Clear Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined once again by Jillian Lare, a trained engineer, experienced college lecturer, and award-winning interior designer. A few years ago, Jillian partnered with her friend and fellow designer to start Morris Lare Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa, and it has been a growing success. Jillian credits a lot of her success and smooth business operations to the technology she implements. She is sharing what is working well in her business, along with suggestions on where to get started integrating technology into your businesses as well. She’s also got a great prompt if you want ChatGPT to create a great Spotify playlist just for you.

Pick It Apart

[4:12] Jillian explains how she uses various project management software platforms in her firm.

[19:04] Jillian shares how her team does a daily check in each morning on Slack to stay up to date on their priorities without having to meet in person. 

[27:20] LuAnn and Jillian discuss tracking time and expenses within the project management systems and by using the app Harvest.

[30:07] Jillian talks about how she is using Milanote.

[44:03] LuAnn shares her thoughts on naming conventions and how these need to be thought through at the beginning so they are easily searchable.

[48:33] Jillian explains why she uses DesignSpec to keep a record of all of their specs in one database.

[54:16] LuAnn and Jillian discuss using AI for idea generation, making a great Spotify playlist, and prompting Midjourney.

LuAnn Nigara and Jillian Lare's Ah-Ha Moments

“I'm about just get something that works. And email is not the answer.” – LuAnn Nigara

“f it's not easy to do, it doesn't matter how good it is. It's not going to get done.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I just want everything to be accessible wherever I am. The minute it's like not accessible is when I'm kind of like start to lose interest in it, because we're just out and about so much.” – Jillian Lare

“Every time you enter the same information in multiple places, that's an opportunity to get it wrong.” – Jillian Lare

More About Jillian Lare

Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur.

Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling.

Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo.

Connect with Jillian Lare

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#162: Power Talk Friday – Natalie Norcross – The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership

#506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership

#544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR

#864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager

#870: Jillian Lare: Processes to Know Your Numbers

#879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation

#895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

Other Resources Mentioned:

Asana

InDesign

Basecamp

Dropbox

Slack

Voxer

Harvest

Studio Designer

MyDoma Studio

Milanote

Pinterest

Instagram

Canva

Google Suite

Chief Architect

Calendly

Type Form

Design Spec

ChatGPT

Midjourney

Books:

Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller

Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg

Atomic Habits by James Clear

]]> 4222 no 897: Power Talk Friday: Adrien Cotton: Design Your Midlife Wellness for Confidence http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/897-power-talk-friday-adrien-cotton-design-your-midlife-wellness-for-confidence Today With Adrien Cotton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Adrien Cotton, menopause expert, transformational concierge wellness coach, and founder of Alexandria Wellness. Adrien’s luxury services and holistic approach bring beauty and confidence to her clients. Like many interior designers, Adrien operates a very personal pursuit that can impact every facet of an individual or family’s life and well-being.  Driven by systems, efficiency, and meaningful connections, Adrien is here to share effective business insights that will move the needle in any industry. We talk about qualifying clients, building a solid team, the importance of systems and consistency, and the value of human connection. Pick It Apart [5:45] Adrien explains her intake process and how she has refined it to make sure her clients are committed. [12:03] LuAnn and Adrien discuss the back end of her business and how her team supports all of her business efforts. [17:29] Adrien explains how she pivoted into concierge wellness and established her brand. LuAnn relates that to how many designers come into the industry as a second career. [21:02] Adrien talks about the importance of knowing your numbers in accounting and data, as well as the importance of systems. [26:51] Adrien explains her system for an editorial calendar throughout the year. [30:34] LuAnn tells Adrien how she uses ChatGPT for rough drafts and idea generation, but explains that the human element is still necessary. [39:29] Adrien and LuAnn discuss the value of human connection and how concierge wellness and luxury interior design are both rooted in that connection because you can’t just Google them or use AI for them and get a personalized answer. [45:37] Adrien mentions her master menopause course and walks through how her concierge small groups work. LuAnn Nigara and Adrien Cotton's Ah-Ha Moments “I'm not a trend and I'm not a fad. I'm not a cleanse, I'm not a diet. I'm a lifestyle.” - Adrien Cotton “If any designer thinks [AI] is replacing the interior design industry, then they're not really fully in touch with what their actual intellectual property is.” – LuAnn Nigara “The human brain thrives on connection with another human being. And so a designer or a wellness expert—we're connecting with someone who's going to trust us to make their life a little bit more beautiful.” – Adrien Cotton “I'm serving them in a way that they can't Google. And I will work just as hard as they do.” – Adrien Cotton “You want to get up every day and live in your ‘why’ and do what you do. Because…when you can do that and make money at it, you can do that and support your family or yourself…then that is the day that you're not working.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Adrien Cotton Adrien Cotton believes that the greatest gift you can give to yourself is the gift of wellness. She is an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur, corporate wellness educator, menopause expert and transformational wellness coach with proven success in designing and implementing innovative workforce wellness programs. Her effectiveness as a facilitative leader, motivational speaker, writer and coach is rooted in a strong set of guiding principles for growth and mirrors her own personal wellness journey. Since founding her wellness enterprise, Adrien has leveraged her fitness and wellness background to move women from a place of “giving up” to one of proactive self-care. Her work goes beyond nutrition and exercise and focuses on an individual’s lifestyle and key high-impact areas including stress resilience, sleep, calendar management, mindfulness, and menopause. She excels in shifting mindsets and helping her clients leverage small habits that yield lasting results. Whereas the market is saturated with wellness professionals, Adrien brings a breadth of corporate experience, a proprietary methodology, and a unique client-centric perspective. After serving in high-leverage professional roles, Adrien pivoted her career focus to helping clients capture their strength in all areas of life.  She is also the creator of the MASTER Menopause NOW! Wellness Program. This course is the culmination of 20 years of research and many years of working with perimenopausal and menopausal women. She has discovered what works, with real women, every day. Connect with Adrien Cotton Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #86: Andrea Schumacher – Strategies for Client Management #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! #848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers #854: Lindye Galloway: Connect Your Why to Your Interior Design Business, the Success Will Follow #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers Fri, 21 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Adrien Cotton: Design Your Midlife Wellness for Confidence full 897 LuAnn Nigara Today With Adrien Cotton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Adrien Cotton, menopause expert, transformational concierge wellness coach, and founder of Alexandria Wellness. Adrien’s luxury services and holistic approach bring beauty... Today With Adrien Cotton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Adrien Cotton, menopause expert, transformational concierge wellness coach, and founder of Alexandria Wellness. Adrien’s luxury services and holistic approach bring beauty and confidence to her clients. Like many interior designers, Adrien operates a very personal pursuit that can impact every facet of an individual or family’s life and well-being.  Driven by systems, efficiency, and meaningful connections, Adrien is here to share effective business insights that will move the needle in any industry. We talk about qualifying clients, building a solid team, the importance of systems and consistency, and the value of human connection. Pick It Apart [5:45] Adrien explains her intake process and how she has refined it to make sure her clients are committed. [12:03] LuAnn and Adrien discuss the back end of her business and how her team supports all of her business efforts. [17:29] Adrien explains how she pivoted into concierge wellness and established her brand. LuAnn relates that to how many designers come into the industry as a second career. [21:02] Adrien talks about the importance of knowing your numbers in accounting and data, as well as the importance of systems. [26:51] Adrien explains her system for an editorial calendar throughout the year. [30:34] LuAnn tells Adrien how she uses ChatGPT for rough drafts and idea generation, but explains that the human element is still necessary. [39:29] Adrien and LuAnn discuss the value of human connection and how concierge wellness and luxury interior design are both rooted in that connection because you can’t just Google them or use AI for them and get a personalized answer. [45:37] Adrien mentions her master menopause course and walks through how her concierge small groups work. LuAnn Nigara and Adrien Cotton's Ah-Ha Moments “I'm not a trend and I'm not a fad. I'm not a cleanse, I'm not a diet. I'm a lifestyle.” - Adrien Cotton “If any designer thinks [AI] is replacing the interior design industry, then they're not really fully in touch with what their actual intellectual property is.” – LuAnn Nigara “The human brain thrives on connection with another human being. And so a designer or a wellness expert—we're connecting with someone who's going to trust us to make their life a little bit more beautiful.” – Adrien Cotton “I'm serving them in a way that they can't Google. And I will work just as hard as they do.” – Adrien Cotton “You want to get up every day and live in your ‘why’ and do what you do. Because…when you can do that and make money at it, you can do that and support your family or yourself…then that is the day that you're not working.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Adrien Cotton Adrien Cotton believes that the greatest gift you can give to yourself is the gift of wellness. She is an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur, corporate wellness educator, menopause expert and transformational wellness coach with proven success in designing and implementing innovative workforce wellness programs. Her effectiveness as a facilitative leader, motivational speaker, writer and coach is rooted in a strong set of guiding principles for growth and mirrors her own personal wellness journey. Since founding her wellness enterprise, Adrien has leveraged her fitness and wellness background to move women from a place of “giving up” to one of proactive self-care. Her work goes beyond nutrition and exercise and focuses on an individual’s lifestyle and key high-impact areas including stress resilience, sleep, calendar management, mindfulness, and menopause. She excels in shifting mindsets and helping her clients leverage small habits that yield lasting results. Whereas the market is saturated with wellness professionals, Adrien brings a breadth of corporate experience, a proprietary methodology, and a unique client-centric perspective. After serving in high-leverage professional roles, Adrien pivoted her career focus to helping clients capture their strength in all areas of life.  She is also the creator of the MASTER Menopause NOW! Wellness Program. This course is the culmination of 20 years of research and many years of working with perimenopausal and menopausal women. She has discovered what works, with real women, every day. Connect with Adrien Cotton Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #86: Andrea Schumacher – Strategies for Client Management #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! #848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client #852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers #854: Lindye Galloway: Connect Your Why to Your Interior Design Business, the Success Will Follow #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Adrien Cotton, menopause expert, transformational concierge wellness coach, and founder of Alexandria Wellness. Adrien’s luxury services and holistic approach bring beauty and confidence to her clients. Like many interior designers, Adrien operates a very personal pursuit that can impact every facet of an individual or family’s life and well-being. 

Driven by systems, efficiency, and meaningful connections, Adrien is here to share effective business insights that will move the needle in any industry. We talk about qualifying clients, building a solid team, the importance of systems and consistency, and the value of human connection.

Pick It Apart

[5:45] Adrien explains her intake process and how she has refined it to make sure her clients are committed.

[12:03] LuAnn and Adrien discuss the back end of her business and how her team supports all of her business efforts.

[17:29] Adrien explains how she pivoted into concierge wellness and established her brand. LuAnn relates that to how many designers come into the industry as a second career.

[21:02] Adrien talks about the importance of knowing your numbers in accounting and data, as well as the importance of systems.

[26:51] Adrien explains her system for an editorial calendar throughout the year.

[30:34] LuAnn tells Adrien how she uses ChatGPT for rough drafts and idea generation, but explains that the human element is still necessary.

[39:29] Adrien and LuAnn discuss the value of human connection and how concierge wellness and luxury interior design are both rooted in that connection because you can’t just Google them or use AI for them and get a personalized answer.

[45:37] Adrien mentions her master menopause course and walks through how her concierge small groups work.

LuAnn Nigara and Adrien Cotton's Ah-Ha Moments

“I'm not a trend and I'm not a fad. I'm not a cleanse, I'm not a diet. I'm a lifestyle.” - Adrien Cotton

“If any designer thinks [AI] is replacing the interior design industry, then they're not really fully in touch with what their actual intellectual property is.” – LuAnn Nigara

“The human brain thrives on connection with another human being. And so a designer or a wellness expert—we're connecting with someone who's going to trust us to make their life a little bit more beautiful.” – Adrien Cotton

“I'm serving them in a way that they can't Google. And I will work just as hard as they do.” – Adrien Cotton

“You want to get up every day and live in your ‘why’ and do what you do. Because…when you can do that and make money at it, you can do that and support your family or yourself…then that is the day that you're not working.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Adrien Cotton

Adrien Cotton believes that the greatest gift you can give to yourself is the gift of wellness. She is an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur, corporate wellness educator, menopause expert and transformational wellness coach with proven success in designing and implementing innovative workforce wellness programs. Her effectiveness as a facilitative leader, motivational speaker, writer and coach is rooted in a strong set of guiding principles for growth and mirrors her own personal wellness journey.

Since founding her wellness enterprise, Adrien has leveraged her fitness and wellness background to move women from a place of “giving up” to one of proactive self-care. Her work goes beyond nutrition and exercise and focuses on an individual’s lifestyle and key high-impact areas including stress resilience, sleep, calendar management, mindfulness, and menopause. She excels in shifting mindsets and helping her clients leverage small habits that yield lasting results.

Whereas the market is saturated with wellness professionals, Adrien brings a breadth of corporate experience, a proprietary methodology, and a unique client-centric perspective. After serving in high-leverage professional roles, Adrien pivoted her career focus to helping clients capture their strength in all areas of life. 

She is also the creator of the MASTER Menopause NOW! Wellness Program. This course is the culmination of 20 years of research and many years of working with perimenopausal and menopausal women. She has discovered what works, with real women, every day.

Connect with Adrien Cotton

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#86: Andrea Schumacher – Strategies for Client Management

#803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

#848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client

#852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers

#854: Lindye Galloway: Connect Your Why to Your Interior Design Business, the Success Will Follow

#861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

]]> 3578 no 896: Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/896-clophe-poli-a-unique-interior-design-niche-serving-english-speaking-clients-in-paris Today With Cléophée Poli: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business today. I am very excited to welcome to the show a long-time listener, Cleo Poli.  Cleo is from Paris, but traveled abroad, living several different places around the globe. She worked in interior design in London, but moved back home to Paris when she found out she was expecting a baby. It was there that she discovered her niche—her Fred Berns only—serving English-speaking clients in France.  Today, she’s here to share what she has learned embarking on an interior design career in Paris, establishing and developing her niche, and serving an unfulfilled need for English-speaking clients.  Pick It Apart [4:00] Cleo shares her journey and how she ended up back home in Paris serving English-speaking clients.  [9:04] LuAnn and Cleo discuss how Cleo’s niche took shape and the importance of niching. [14:54] Cleo explains how interior design is fundamentally different in Paris.  [31:16] Cleo shares how and why she uses a pricing structure that’s unusual to the area.  [41:21] Cleo reflects on her insights from the show and building her firm.  LuAnn Nigara and Cléophée Poli's Ah-Ha Moments “It's important to know yourself first, right? Know yourself first, figure out your why and then move. And it doesn't matter if it's the same or different than anybody else's—it just matters that it's true to you, that you know that you're doing what you really want the way you want to do it.” -LuAnn More About Cléophée Poli Cléophée was born and raised in Paris and has spent the best part of the last decade living overseas (Malawi, Australia, England and now Paris again) with her Australian partner. This time abroad heightened her understanding of the need to have a home away from home as well as the chance to discover many different cultures and their affiliated designs. Her father is an antiques and collectables merchant and her mother a multidisciplinary artist. Growing up surrounded by art and vintage decor magazines, Cléo developed an eye for design from a very young age. Since she was a child, she scouted Parisian flea markets, museums and collector shows across Europe and the US. Design became a staple in her everyday life. Her appreciation for good design and the arts has allowed her to tailor a very particular service offering, Kids’ Artwork, for her English-speaking expatriate clientèle based in Paris. Connect with Cléophée Poli Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #174 Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Tue, 18 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Cléophée Poli: A Unique Interior Design Niche Serving English-Speaking Clients in Paris full 896 LuAnn Nigara Today With Cléophée Poli: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business today. I am very excited to welcome to the show a long-time listener, Cleo Poli.  Cleo is from Paris, but traveled abroad, living several different places around the globe. She... Today With Cléophée Poli: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business today. I am very excited to welcome to the show a long-time listener, Cleo Poli.  Cleo is from Paris, but traveled abroad, living several different places around the globe. She worked in interior design in London, but moved back home to Paris when she found out she was expecting a baby. It was there that she discovered her niche—her Fred Berns only—serving English-speaking clients in France.  Today, she’s here to share what she has learned embarking on an interior design career in Paris, establishing and developing her niche, and serving an unfulfilled need for English-speaking clients.  Pick It Apart [4:00] Cleo shares her journey and how she ended up back home in Paris serving English-speaking clients.  [9:04] LuAnn and Cleo discuss how Cleo’s niche took shape and the importance of niching. [14:54] Cleo explains how interior design is fundamentally different in Paris.  [31:16] Cleo shares how and why she uses a pricing structure that’s unusual to the area.  [41:21] Cleo reflects on her insights from the show and building her firm.  LuAnn Nigara and Cléophée Poli's Ah-Ha Moments “It's important to know yourself first, right? Know yourself first, figure out your why and then move. And it doesn't matter if it's the same or different than anybody else's—it just matters that it's true to you, that you know that you're doing what you really want the way you want to do it.” -LuAnn More About Cléophée Poli Cléophée was born and raised in Paris and has spent the best part of the last decade living overseas (Malawi, Australia, England and now Paris again) with her Australian partner. This time abroad heightened her understanding of the need to have a home away from home as well as the chance to discover many different cultures and their affiliated designs. Her father is an antiques and collectables merchant and her mother a multidisciplinary artist. Growing up surrounded by art and vintage decor magazines, Cléo developed an eye for design from a very young age. Since she was a child, she scouted Parisian flea markets, museums and collector shows across Europe and the US. Design became a staple in her everyday life. Her appreciation for good design and the arts has allowed her to tailor a very particular service offering, Kids’ Artwork, for her English-speaking expatriate clientèle based in Paris. Connect with Cléophée Poli Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #174 Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Welcome to a Well-Designed Business today. I am very excited to welcome to the show a long-time listener, Cleo Poli. 

Cleo is from Paris, but traveled abroad, living several different places around the globe. She worked in interior design in London, but moved back home to Paris when she found out she was expecting a baby. It was there that she discovered her niche—her Fred Berns only—serving English-speaking clients in France. 

Today, she’s here to share what she has learned embarking on an interior design career in Paris, establishing and developing her niche, and serving an unfulfilled need for English-speaking clients. 

Pick It Apart

[4:00] Cleo shares her journey and how she ended up back home in Paris serving English-speaking clients. 

[9:04] LuAnn and Cleo discuss how Cleo’s niche took shape and the importance of niching.

[14:54] Cleo explains how interior design is fundamentally different in Paris. 

[31:16] Cleo shares how and why she uses a pricing structure that’s unusual to the area. 

[41:21] Cleo reflects on her insights from the show and building her firm. 

LuAnn Nigara and Cléophée Poli's Ah-Ha Moments

“It's important to know yourself first, right? Know yourself first, figure out your why and then move. And it doesn't matter if it's the same or different than anybody else's—it just matters that it's true to you, that you know that you're doing what you really want the way you want to do it.” -LuAnn

More About Cléophée Poli

Cléophée was born and raised in Paris and has spent the best part of the last decade living overseas (Malawi, Australia, England and now Paris again) with her Australian partner. This time abroad heightened her understanding of the need to have a home away from home as well as the chance to discover many different cultures and their affiliated designs.

Her father is an antiques and collectables merchant and her mother a multidisciplinary artist.

Growing up surrounded by art and vintage decor magazines, Cléo developed an eye for design from a very young age. Since she was a child, she scouted Parisian flea markets, museums and collector shows across Europe and the US. Design became a staple in her everyday life.

Her appreciation for good design and the arts has allowed her to tailor a very particular service offering, Kids’ Artwork, for her English-speaking expatriate clientèle based in Paris.

Connect with Cléophée Poli

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#169 Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference

#174 Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know.

#759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

]]> 3865 no 895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/895-sandra-funk-the-millionaire-mindset-for-interior-designers Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that thriving in business takes a specific mindset. But what is the millionaire mindset, really? How can we break out of fear mode and start doing what it takes today to take our business where we want to be? In today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to chat about the Interior Design Standard and the millionaire mindset for designers.  Pick It Apart [7:54] Sandra and LuAnn discuss why waiting for the “right time” hurts designers.  [21:26] Sandra and LuAnn talk about the importance of investing in your business. [40:07] Sandra and LuAnn share the value of setting expectations with your clients.  [45:44] Sandra shares how important it is to have a process for estimates—and to stick to it.  [49:36] Sandra shares details about the upcoming session of the Interior Design Standard.  LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments “When we're not process driven, and we don't have it documented, then we are making up the conversation.” -LuAnn “There are so many designers who are doing this designer discount and charging 10% or 20%, or even 30% markup. I tracked it people—that is break-even. 35% markup is break-even.” -Sandra More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit.  Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm.  Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Fri, 14 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers full 895 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that thriving in business takes a specific mindset. But what is the millionaire mindset, really? How can we break out of fear mode and start doing what it takes today to take our... Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that thriving in business takes a specific mindset. But what is the millionaire mindset, really? How can we break out of fear mode and start doing what it takes today to take our business where we want to be? In today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to chat about the Interior Design Standard and the millionaire mindset for designers.  Pick It Apart [7:54] Sandra and LuAnn discuss why waiting for the “right time” hurts designers.  [21:26] Sandra and LuAnn talk about the importance of investing in your business. [40:07] Sandra and LuAnn share the value of setting expectations with your clients.  [45:44] Sandra shares how important it is to have a process for estimates—and to stick to it.  [49:36] Sandra shares details about the upcoming session of the Interior Design Standard.  LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments “When we're not process driven, and we don't have it documented, then we are making up the conversation.” -LuAnn “There are so many designers who are doing this designer discount and charging 10% or 20%, or even 30% markup. I tracked it people—that is break-even. 35% markup is break-even.” -Sandra More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit.  Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm.  Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that thriving in business takes a specific mindset. But what is the millionaire mindset, really? How can we break out of fear mode and start doing what it takes today to take our business where we want to be?

In today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to chat about the Interior Design Standard and the millionaire mindset for designers. 

Pick It Apart

[7:54] Sandra and LuAnn discuss why waiting for the “right time” hurts designers. 

[21:26] Sandra and LuAnn talk about the importance of investing in your business.

[40:07] Sandra and LuAnn share the value of setting expectations with your clients. 

[45:44] Sandra shares how important it is to have a process for estimates—and to stick to it. 

[49:36] Sandra shares details about the upcoming session of the Interior Design Standard. 

LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments

“When we're not process driven, and we don't have it documented, then we are making up the conversation.” -LuAnn

“There are so many designers who are doing this designer discount and charging 10% or 20%, or even 30% markup. I tracked it people—that is break-even. 35% markup is break-even.” -Sandra

More About Sandra Funk

Sandra Funk is a trusted advisor and the celebrated design leader who built the boutique firm, House of Funk and her proven process, the Interior Design Standard. Over 30 national press outlets - Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, to name a few - have recognized Sandra for her award-winning designs and innate entrepreneurial spirit. 

Despite her business degree, a background in business process consulting and a design education from Parsons, it took Sandra over a decade - and the help of several experts - to develop and fine-tune her business model for a thriving interior design firm. 

Today, Sandra is deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Other Shows Mentioned:

#845 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

]]> 3723 no 894: Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/894-jessica-duce-the-vacation-rental-design-summit-at-high-point-market Today With Jessica Duce: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Duce, principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers is back on to talk about her Vacation Rental Design Summit she held in spring 2023 at High Point. We talk about the importance of noticing gaps in the industry and how she used them to her, and everyone’s benefit, in more ways than one. We also learn about the membership program she and her partners started, and everything else Jessica has been up to since she was last on! Pick It Apart [1:45] Jessica fills us in on why she was so passionate to create the Vacation rental Design Summit. [5:00] Jessica explains that there are, in fact, differences between vacation rental design and regular design. [13:09] Jessica shares what the new summit consisted of for both new and old vacation rental designers. [24:20] Jessica talks about the membership program her and her partners launched at the summit. [36: Jessica tells us about the evolution of Vacation Rental Designers since she was last on the podcast. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Duce's Ah-Ha Moments “People want to stay somewhere that doesn't look like their home.” - Jessica Duce “Brands want to be apart of a rental, so guests or designers that they bring in can experience these brands there instead of in a showhouse.” - Jessica Duce More About Jessica Duce In business for almost 20 years, interior designer Jessica Duce brings her creativity and expertise to both residential and commercial projects. With Houston as homebase, she works with clients across the country which she says affords a unique perspective on regional design trends and needs. The principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers, she saw the latter as a much-needed niche service bringing value to short-term rental property homeowners who require a unique mix of budget and modern style. Together with business partner and real estate consultant Julia Harmon, they are creating new opportunities for designers and owners in that space. As an accomplished speaker and presenter, Jessica has appeared on numerous panels and podcasts, and she has been featured in community lifestyle publications as well as trade magazines including Business of Home, Furniture Today, Designers Today and KBIS magazine. Most recently, she announced her role as key strategist in the inaugural Vacation Rental Design Summit to be held in conjunction with High Point Market in April 2023. Jessica is the incoming President for IDS Houston as well as National IDS membership. Additionally, Jessica is proud of her ongoing relationship with Modenus and its Design Hounds Influencer program. Connect with Jessica Duce Vacation Rental Designers Website Instagram Vacation Rental Design Summit Instagram Jessica Duce Instagram Facebook Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development #305: Elizabeth Scruggs- The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business® #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   Tue, 11 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market full 894 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Duce: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Duce, principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers is back on to talk about her Vacation Rental Design Summit she held in spring 2023 at High Point. We talk... Today With Jessica Duce: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Duce, principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers is back on to talk about her Vacation Rental Design Summit she held in spring 2023 at High Point. We talk about the importance of noticing gaps in the industry and how she used them to her, and everyone’s benefit, in more ways than one. We also learn about the membership program she and her partners started, and everything else Jessica has been up to since she was last on! Pick It Apart [1:45] Jessica fills us in on why she was so passionate to create the Vacation rental Design Summit. [5:00] Jessica explains that there are, in fact, differences between vacation rental design and regular design. [13:09] Jessica shares what the new summit consisted of for both new and old vacation rental designers. [24:20] Jessica talks about the membership program her and her partners launched at the summit. [36: Jessica tells us about the evolution of Vacation Rental Designers since she was last on the podcast. LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Duce's Ah-Ha Moments “People want to stay somewhere that doesn't look like their home.” - Jessica Duce “Brands want to be apart of a rental, so guests or designers that they bring in can experience these brands there instead of in a showhouse.” - Jessica Duce More About Jessica Duce In business for almost 20 years, interior designer Jessica Duce brings her creativity and expertise to both residential and commercial projects. With Houston as homebase, she works with clients across the country which she says affords a unique perspective on regional design trends and needs. The principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers, she saw the latter as a much-needed niche service bringing value to short-term rental property homeowners who require a unique mix of budget and modern style. Together with business partner and real estate consultant Julia Harmon, they are creating new opportunities for designers and owners in that space. As an accomplished speaker and presenter, Jessica has appeared on numerous panels and podcasts, and she has been featured in community lifestyle publications as well as trade magazines including Business of Home, Furniture Today, Designers Today and KBIS magazine. Most recently, she announced her role as key strategist in the inaugural Vacation Rental Design Summit to be held in conjunction with High Point Market in April 2023. Jessica is the incoming President for IDS Houston as well as National IDS membership. Additionally, Jessica is proud of her ongoing relationship with Modenus and its Design Hounds Influencer program. Connect with Jessica Duce Vacation Rental Designers Website Instagram Vacation Rental Design Summit Instagram Jessica Duce Instagram Facebook Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development #305: Elizabeth Scruggs- The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business® #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Duce, principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers is back on to talk about her Vacation Rental Design Summit she held in spring 2023 at High Point. We talk about the importance of noticing gaps in the industry and how she used them to her, and everyone’s benefit, in more ways than one. We also learn about the membership program she and her partners started, and everything else Jessica has been up to since she was last on!

Pick It Apart

[1:45] Jessica fills us in on why she was so passionate to create the Vacation rental Design Summit.

[5:00] Jessica explains that there are, in fact, differences between vacation rental design and regular design.

[13:09] Jessica shares what the new summit consisted of for both new and old vacation rental designers.

[24:20] Jessica talks about the membership program her and her partners launched at the summit.

[36: Jessica tells us about the evolution of Vacation Rental Designers since she was last on the podcast.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Duce's Ah-Ha Moments

“People want to stay somewhere that doesn't look like their home.” - Jessica Duce

“Brands want to be apart of a rental, so guests or designers that they bring in can experience these brands there instead of in a showhouse.” - Jessica Duce

More About Jessica Duce

In business for almost 20 years, interior designer Jessica Duce brings her creativity and expertise to both residential and commercial projects. With Houston as homebase, she works with clients across the country which she says affords a unique perspective on regional design trends and needs. The principal designer at both JDuce Design and Vacation Rental Designers, she saw the latter as a much-needed niche service bringing value to short-term rental property homeowners who require a unique mix of budget and modern style. Together with business partner and real estate consultant Julia Harmon, they are creating new opportunities for designers and owners in that space.

As an accomplished speaker and presenter, Jessica has appeared on numerous panels and podcasts, and she has been featured in community lifestyle publications as well as trade magazines including Business of Home, Furniture Today, Designers Today and KBIS magazine. Most recently, she announced her role as key strategist in the inaugural Vacation Rental Design Summit to be held in conjunction with High Point Market in April 2023. Jessica is the incoming President for IDS Houston as well as National IDS membership. Additionally, Jessica is proud of her ongoing relationship with Modenus and its Design Hounds Influencer program.

Connect with Jessica Duce

Vacation Rental Designers

Website

Instagram

Vacation Rental Design Summit

Instagram

Jessica Duce

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

#305: Elizabeth Scruggs- The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business®

#368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design

#540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

 

]]> 3729 no 893: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Clayton: Essential Strategies to Uplevel Your Branding http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/893-power-talk-friday-michelle-clayton-essential-strategies-to-uplevel-your-branding Today With Michelle Clayton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday. I am sitting down with Michelle Clayton, the Brand Strategist, and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. Michelle wanted to come on and first of all, give us some great actionable branding tips, but also to debunk the misconception that using Fiverr or Pinterest for your logo is a good idea. Spoiler alert, it’s not. Michelle will explain why and what you should be doing for your brand.  Pick It Apart [3:25] Michelle tells us the first place we should turn to when considering a rebrand. [14:58] Michelle explains the difference between your brand logo made from someone on Fiverr compared to a professionally made logo. [30:45] Michelle and LuAnn discuss brand consistency among all of your platforms. [39:49] Additional actions you should skip when formulating your brand.  [46:20] Michelle explains that re-branding or tweaking your current brand doesn’t mean changing yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Clayton's Ah-Ha Moments “If you present your brand one way on Instagram, and a completely different, or old, way on your website and they just don’t line up, it’s a hard no for me.” - LuAnn Nigara “People need that consistency in their brand across all platforms, whatever that is for your business.” - Michelle Clayton “You need to make it easy for people when they are checking you out, and give them the path of least resistance.” - Michelle Clayton “Everyone has a brand and the beauty is you can love and keep developing the one you have or if it isn’t working for you anymore, you can always change it.” - Michelle Clayton More About Michelle Clayton Michelle Clayton is the Brand Strategist and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. She captures their personality and expertise in a clear, cohesive brand that feels just like them and attracts more ideal clients, so they can confidently go after their next big thing. With a design degree and 30 years in the industry, Michelle’s experience ranges from in-house art departments to non-profits to two of Calgary’s largest advertising agencies. Through, Let Her Fly, she now brings that same level of expertise and eye for detail to entrepreneurs and small businesses. Michelle loves helping women create a brand that looks as professional as they are—one that fits like their favorite t-shirt and attracts more ideal clients. She knows first-hand the insecurity that comes from outgrowing your brand, and the positive impact the right one has on your confidence and your bottom line. Through strategic design, insightful articles, guest interviews, and online and in-person workshops, she breaks down the mystery of great design, the difference it makes, and how everyone can build a brand that feels good and delights their audience. In 1995, Michelle traded Southern sweet tea and lightning bugs for true love in the Great White North. She speaks fluent American and Canadian, accurately using “toboggan” in either context. Home is in Calgary with her husband, two teen daughters, a hairy rescue pup, and a bottomless London Fog. Connect with Michelle Clayton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Podcast Spotify playlist of guest episodes on podcasts What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #125: Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business, Yes Again. Do Not Miss This One! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #609: Lisa Haude: Rebranding to Express Who You Really Are #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability Fri, 07 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Clayton: Essential Strategies to Uplevel Your Branding full 893 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Clayton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday. I am sitting down with Michelle Clayton, the Brand Strategist, and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look... Today With Michelle Clayton: Today on A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday. I am sitting down with Michelle Clayton, the Brand Strategist, and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. Michelle wanted to come on and first of all, give us some great actionable branding tips, but also to debunk the misconception that using Fiverr or Pinterest for your logo is a good idea. Spoiler alert, it’s not. Michelle will explain why and what you should be doing for your brand.  Pick It Apart [3:25] Michelle tells us the first place we should turn to when considering a rebrand. [14:58] Michelle explains the difference between your brand logo made from someone on Fiverr compared to a professionally made logo. [30:45] Michelle and LuAnn discuss brand consistency among all of your platforms. [39:49] Additional actions you should skip when formulating your brand.  [46:20] Michelle explains that re-branding or tweaking your current brand doesn’t mean changing yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Clayton's Ah-Ha Moments “If you present your brand one way on Instagram, and a completely different, or old, way on your website and they just don’t line up, it’s a hard no for me.” - LuAnn Nigara “People need that consistency in their brand across all platforms, whatever that is for your business.” - Michelle Clayton “You need to make it easy for people when they are checking you out, and give them the path of least resistance.” - Michelle Clayton “Everyone has a brand and the beauty is you can love and keep developing the one you have or if it isn’t working for you anymore, you can always change it.” - Michelle Clayton More About Michelle Clayton Michelle Clayton is the Brand Strategist and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. She captures their personality and expertise in a clear, cohesive brand that feels just like them and attracts more ideal clients, so they can confidently go after their next big thing. With a design degree and 30 years in the industry, Michelle’s experience ranges from in-house art departments to non-profits to two of Calgary’s largest advertising agencies. Through, Let Her Fly, she now brings that same level of expertise and eye for detail to entrepreneurs and small businesses. Michelle loves helping women create a brand that looks as professional as they are—one that fits like their favorite t-shirt and attracts more ideal clients. She knows first-hand the insecurity that comes from outgrowing your brand, and the positive impact the right one has on your confidence and your bottom line. Through strategic design, insightful articles, guest interviews, and online and in-person workshops, she breaks down the mystery of great design, the difference it makes, and how everyone can build a brand that feels good and delights their audience. In 1995, Michelle traded Southern sweet tea and lightning bugs for true love in the Great White North. She speaks fluent American and Canadian, accurately using “toboggan” in either context. Home is in Calgary with her husband, two teen daughters, a hairy rescue pup, and a bottomless London Fog. Connect with Michelle Clayton Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Podcast Spotify playlist of guest episodes on podcasts What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #125: Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business, Yes Again. Do Not Miss This One! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #609: Lisa Haude: Rebranding to Express Who You Really Are #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability Today on A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday. I am sitting down with Michelle Clayton, the Brand Strategist, and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. Michelle wanted to come on and first of all, give us some great actionable branding tips, but also to debunk the misconception that using Fiverr or Pinterest for your logo is a good idea. Spoiler alert, it’s not. Michelle will explain why and what you should be doing for your brand. 

Pick It Apart

[3:25] Michelle tells us the first place we should turn to when considering a rebrand.

[14:58] Michelle explains the difference between your brand logo made from someone on Fiverr compared to a professionally made logo.

[30:45] Michelle and LuAnn discuss brand consistency among all of your platforms.

[39:49] Additional actions you should skip when formulating your brand. 

[46:20] Michelle explains that re-branding or tweaking your current brand doesn’t mean changing yourself.

LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Clayton's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you present your brand one way on Instagram, and a completely different, or old, way on your website and they just don’t line up, it’s a hard no for me.” - LuAnn Nigara

“People need that consistency in their brand across all platforms, whatever that is for your business.” - Michelle Clayton

“You need to make it easy for people when they are checking you out, and give them the path of least resistance.” - Michelle Clayton

“Everyone has a brand and the beauty is you can love and keep developing the one you have or if it isn’t working for you anymore, you can always change it.” - Michelle Clayton

More About Michelle Clayton

Michelle Clayton is the Brand Strategist and Designer behind Let Her Fly, a studio for successful women who are ready to level up and look like the pro they are. She captures their personality and expertise in a clear, cohesive brand that feels just like them and attracts more ideal clients, so they can confidently go after their next big thing.

With a design degree and 30 years in the industry, Michelle’s experience ranges from in-house art departments to non-profits to two of Calgary’s largest advertising agencies. Through, Let Her Fly, she now brings that same level of expertise and eye for detail to entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Michelle loves helping women create a brand that looks as professional as they are—one that fits like their favorite t-shirt and attracts more ideal clients. She knows first-hand the insecurity that comes from outgrowing your brand, and the positive impact the right one has on your confidence and your bottom line.

Through strategic design, insightful articles, guest interviews, and online and in-person workshops, she breaks down the mystery of great design, the difference it makes, and how everyone can build a brand that feels good and delights their audience.

In 1995, Michelle traded Southern sweet tea and lightning bugs for true love in the Great White North. She speaks fluent American and Canadian, accurately using “toboggan” in either context. Home is in Calgary with her husband, two teen daughters, a hairy rescue pup, and a bottomless London Fog.

Connect with Michelle Clayton

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

LinkedIn

Podcast

Spotify playlist of guest episodes on podcasts

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

#125: Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business, Yes Again. Do Not Miss This One!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

#466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

#609: Lisa Haude: Rebranding to Express Who You Really Are

#882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability

]]> 3762 no 892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/892-sharon-sherman-decoding-personality-types-for-successful-client-outcomes Today With Sharon L. Sherman: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Sharon L. Sherman, founder of Thyme and Place Design. Sharon has been practicing award-winning kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years, is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers, New Jersey chapter, and was named 2022 Innovator of the Year by Kitchen Bath Design News magazine. She has worked with every personality out there and is here to discuss personality traits.  We delve into the four personality types she categorizes: Fire, Air, Earth, and Water. We talk about their traits, how to recognize them, and how to work with each one best for successful outcomes every time. Pick It Apart [2:09] Sharon explains that everyone has a different idea of what a difficult client is, but by understanding our own personality traits we can better understand and work with all types of clients. [9:30] Sharon introduces the four personality types she has defined: fire, air, earth and water.  [11:28] LuAnn and Sharon discuss the traits of the fire personality and how to handle them. [19:26] Sharon describes the air personality as expressive, friendly, and appreciative, but also need to be appreciated. [25:56] Sharon explains that those with the earth personality are stable and grounded and comfortable like your favorite pair of jeans. [29:56] Sharon and LuAnn talk about the water personality, which tends to be analytical and organized. [38:36] Sharon and LuAnn how to determine personality types and work with each one better. LuAnn Nigara and Sharon L. Sherman's Ah-Ha Moments “There's really no such thing as a difficult client. It just sounds like a match that's not well matched.” – LuAnn Nigara “To resolve a problem—that's when we have to step out and detach and start to observe and see and to, quite frankly, employ those sales skills.” – LuAnn Nigara “Clients make our world go round. Without them, we're no longer in business..” – Sharon L. Sherman “If you understand how to speak to your clients, and how to ask them questions, and listen to what they're saying…you start to see who that person is going to be.” – Sharon L. Sherman “If anybody right now has a recent interaction with any client that went negatively—just now think about the different personalities and try and identify what personality they are. Probably, you handled it from your personality. And if that ends up being true, then that is really a very foundational reason why the problem escalates—because you're handling something from your perspective as opposed to the way they need it handled, not because it was an unsolvable problem.” – LuAnn Nigara “I didn't let fear overcome my love for what I'm doing.” - Sharon L. Sherman More About Sharon L. Sherman Sharon is the founder of Thyme and Place Design, headquartered in Wyckoff, New Jersey. She’s been practicing kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years and is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers – New Jersey chapter.  Her award-winning designs and editorial comments have been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Design Milk, Bergen NJ magazine, Kitchen & Bath Design News, Woman’s Day, Country Decorating, Design NJ, New Jersey Home Magazine, 201 Magazine, The Best of Bergen, as well as several books. Her blog “Tips from the Trade” appears in digital form on DesignNJ.com and KBBonline.com. She has also appeared on HGTV’s My Big Amazing Renovation and episodes of House Smarts with Lou Manfredini.  In 2022, she was a featured *Voices From The Industry* speaker at the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s international convention and is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Kitchen Bath & Business magazine and has received the 2022 Innovator of the Year award from Kitchen Bath Design News magazine.  Connect with Sharon L. Sherman Website Instagram LinkedIn Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #762: Laura Martin Bovard: Do You Run Your Interior Design Business From Ego or Soul? #808: Hailey Kolbe: How to Vet Inquiries, Spot Red Flags, and Attract Your Ideal Client #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity #848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client Other Resources Mentioned: Chairman of the Board Make a Friend 7-step sales process Tue, 04 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes full 892 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sharon L. Sherman: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Sharon L. Sherman, founder of Thyme and Place Design. Sharon has been practicing award-winning kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years, is a Past President of the... Today With Sharon L. Sherman: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Sharon L. Sherman, founder of Thyme and Place Design. Sharon has been practicing award-winning kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years, is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers, New Jersey chapter, and was named 2022 Innovator of the Year by Kitchen Bath Design News magazine. She has worked with every personality out there and is here to discuss personality traits.  We delve into the four personality types she categorizes: Fire, Air, Earth, and Water. We talk about their traits, how to recognize them, and how to work with each one best for successful outcomes every time. Pick It Apart [2:09] Sharon explains that everyone has a different idea of what a difficult client is, but by understanding our own personality traits we can better understand and work with all types of clients. [9:30] Sharon introduces the four personality types she has defined: fire, air, earth and water.  [11:28] LuAnn and Sharon discuss the traits of the fire personality and how to handle them. [19:26] Sharon describes the air personality as expressive, friendly, and appreciative, but also need to be appreciated. [25:56] Sharon explains that those with the earth personality are stable and grounded and comfortable like your favorite pair of jeans. [29:56] Sharon and LuAnn talk about the water personality, which tends to be analytical and organized. [38:36] Sharon and LuAnn how to determine personality types and work with each one better. LuAnn Nigara and Sharon L. Sherman's Ah-Ha Moments “There's really no such thing as a difficult client. It just sounds like a match that's not well matched.” – LuAnn Nigara “To resolve a problem—that's when we have to step out and detach and start to observe and see and to, quite frankly, employ those sales skills.” – LuAnn Nigara “Clients make our world go round. Without them, we're no longer in business..” – Sharon L. Sherman “If you understand how to speak to your clients, and how to ask them questions, and listen to what they're saying…you start to see who that person is going to be.” – Sharon L. Sherman “If anybody right now has a recent interaction with any client that went negatively—just now think about the different personalities and try and identify what personality they are. Probably, you handled it from your personality. And if that ends up being true, then that is really a very foundational reason why the problem escalates—because you're handling something from your perspective as opposed to the way they need it handled, not because it was an unsolvable problem.” – LuAnn Nigara “I didn't let fear overcome my love for what I'm doing.” - Sharon L. Sherman More About Sharon L. Sherman Sharon is the founder of Thyme and Place Design, headquartered in Wyckoff, New Jersey. She’s been practicing kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years and is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers – New Jersey chapter.  Her award-winning designs and editorial comments have been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Design Milk, Bergen NJ magazine, Kitchen & Bath Design News, Woman’s Day, Country Decorating, Design NJ, New Jersey Home Magazine, 201 Magazine, The Best of Bergen, as well as several books. Her blog “Tips from the Trade” appears in digital form on DesignNJ.com and KBBonline.com. She has also appeared on HGTV’s My Big Amazing Renovation and episodes of House Smarts with Lou Manfredini.  In 2022, she was a featured *Voices From The Industry* speaker at the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s international convention and is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Kitchen Bath & Business magazine and has received the 2022 Innovator of the Year award from Kitchen Bath Design News magazine.  Connect with Sharon L. Sherman Website Instagram LinkedIn Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 Watch the Docuseries! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #762: Laura Martin Bovard: Do You Run Your Interior Design Business From Ego or Soul? #808: Hailey Kolbe: How to Vet Inquiries, Spot Red Flags, and Attract Your Ideal Client #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity #848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client Other Resources Mentioned: Chairman of the Board Make a Friend 7-step sales process Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Sharon L. Sherman, founder of Thyme and Place Design. Sharon has been practicing award-winning kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years, is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers, New Jersey chapter, and was named 2022 Innovator of the Year by Kitchen Bath Design News magazine. She has worked with every personality out there and is here to discuss personality traits. 

We delve into the four personality types she categorizes: Fire, Air, Earth, and Water. We talk about their traits, how to recognize them, and how to work with each one best for successful outcomes every time.

Pick It Apart

[2:09] Sharon explains that everyone has a different idea of what a difficult client is, but by understanding our own personality traits we can better understand and work with all types of clients.

[9:30] Sharon introduces the four personality types she has defined: fire, air, earth and water. 

[11:28] LuAnn and Sharon discuss the traits of the fire personality and how to handle them.

[19:26] Sharon describes the air personality as expressive, friendly, and appreciative, but also need to be appreciated.

[25:56] Sharon explains that those with the earth personality are stable and grounded and comfortable like your favorite pair of jeans.

[29:56] Sharon and LuAnn talk about the water personality, which tends to be analytical and organized.

[38:36] Sharon and LuAnn how to determine personality types and work with each one better.

LuAnn Nigara and Sharon L. Sherman's Ah-Ha Moments

“There's really no such thing as a difficult client. It just sounds like a match that's not well matched.” – LuAnn Nigara

“To resolve a problem—that's when we have to step out and detach and start to observe and see and to, quite frankly, employ those sales skills.” – LuAnn Nigara

“Clients make our world go round. Without them, we're no longer in business..” – Sharon L. Sherman

“If you understand how to speak to your clients, and how to ask them questions, and listen to what they're saying…you start to see who that person is going to be.” – Sharon L. Sherman

“If anybody right now has a recent interaction with any client that went negatively—just now think about the different personalities and try and identify what personality they are. Probably, you handled it from your personality. And if that ends up being true, then that is really a very foundational reason why the problem escalates—because you're handling something from your perspective as opposed to the way they need it handled, not because it was an unsolvable problem.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I didn't let fear overcome my love for what I'm doing.” - Sharon L. Sherman

More About Sharon L. Sherman

Sharon is the founder of Thyme and Place Design, headquartered in Wyckoff, New Jersey. She’s been practicing kitchen and bath design for the past 40 years and is a Past President of the American Society of Interior Designers – New Jersey chapter. 

Her award-winning designs and editorial comments have been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Design Milk, Bergen NJ magazine, Kitchen & Bath Design News, Woman’s Day, Country Decorating, Design NJ, New Jersey Home Magazine, 201 Magazine, The Best of Bergen, as well as several books.

Her blog “Tips from the Trade” appears in digital form on DesignNJ.com and KBBonline.com. She has also appeared on HGTV’s My Big Amazing Renovation and episodes of House Smarts with Lou Manfredini.  In 2022, she was a featured *Voices From The Industry* speaker at the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s international convention and is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Kitchen Bath & Business magazine and has received the 2022 Innovator of the Year award from Kitchen Bath Design News magazine. 

Connect with Sharon L. Sherman

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Book

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

Watch the Docuseries!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals

#762: Laura Martin Bovard: Do You Run Your Interior Design Business From Ego or Soul?

#808: Hailey Kolbe: How to Vet Inquiries, Spot Red Flags, and Attract Your Ideal Client

#842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

#848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client

Other Resources Mentioned:

Chairman of the Board

Make a Friend 7-step sales process

]]> 4488 no 891: Power Talk Friday: Judy Brower Fancher: Selecting the Right Art Can Grow Your Client Base, Your Quality Results, and Your Profit http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/891-power-talk-friday-judy-brower-francher-selecting-the-right-art-can-grow-your-client-base-your-quality-results-and-your-profit Today With Judy Brower Fancher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am joined by Judy Brower Fancher, of Brower, Miller & Cole Art Consulting. Judy is certified in interior design, and while she isn’t currently working as one, she knows that most interior designers are not trained, nor confident, in selecting art for their clients. Judy is here to help my audience understand that buying those color Xeroxes is never the answer, and some tangible tips for those unfamiliar with the art world.  Pick It Apart [2:32] Judy explains what she means about the difference between xerox art and real art. [9:17]  Just explains how the budget for art should be separate from the design budget. [20:58] Tangible benefits for an interior designer when they add art into their projects.  [25:46] Judy lets us know where we can go to source art. [42:12] How the relationship works between the designer and an art consultant. LuAnn Nigara and Judy Brower Fancher's Ah-Ha Moments “Art should be emotional. It should feel as passionate as your first kiss.” - Judy Brower “As trusted professionals who are supplying, educating, and sourcing art for our clients, we should have some education on it and know what we are doing.” - LuAnn Nigara “The art really adds to the luxury feel of the project and is part of showing the good taste of the home.” - Just Brower More About Judy Brower Fancher With two decades of experience traveling the globe to understand the art, architecture, fashion and design of various parts of the world, Judy Brower Fancher brings her own love of international cultures, mixed cultures and all things unique and remarkable to her design and storytelling skills. Her company mission is to create the final layer on spaces that make people whole through reflecting both their current lives and their cultural heritage, while assisting clients and the interior design trade to bring fantastic original art into their lives and their interior designs. Judy’s background includes: Purchasing art in galleries in more than 25 countries around the globe 25-plus years working with architects, developers and interior design firms Bachelor of Arts in Communications from UCLA Minor in Art History Graduate of the Interior Design Institute Attending conferences for: Global original art Global luxury interior design custom materials and installation global furniture and accessories Global real estate and architecture trends Judy believes that with a highly personalized final layer, a home or workplace can embrace more than one background and tell a compelling story to those who visit. In addition, incorporating cultural elements adds beauty that never goes out of style. Connect with Judy Brower Fancher Website Instagram LinkedIn Why acquire art through an art consultant What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #755: Power Talk Friday: Liz Beaman Delman: Fine Art is an Asset, Not an Accessory #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #239: Katharine Earnhardt – How to Advise Your Clients on Art #413: Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design Fri, 30 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Judy Brower Fancher: Selecting the Right Art Can Grow Your Client Base, Your Quality Results, and Your Profit full 891 LuAnn Nigara Today With Judy Brower Fancher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am joined by Judy Brower Fancher, of Brower, Miller & Cole Art Consulting. Judy is certified in interior design, and while she isn’t currently... Today With Judy Brower Fancher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am joined by Judy Brower Fancher, of Brower, Miller & Cole Art Consulting. Judy is certified in interior design, and while she isn’t currently working as one, she knows that most interior designers are not trained, nor confident, in selecting art for their clients. Judy is here to help my audience understand that buying those color Xeroxes is never the answer, and some tangible tips for those unfamiliar with the art world.  Pick It Apart [2:32] Judy explains what she means about the difference between xerox art and real art. [9:17]  Just explains how the budget for art should be separate from the design budget. [20:58] Tangible benefits for an interior designer when they add art into their projects.  [25:46] Judy lets us know where we can go to source art. [42:12] How the relationship works between the designer and an art consultant. LuAnn Nigara and Judy Brower Fancher's Ah-Ha Moments “Art should be emotional. It should feel as passionate as your first kiss.” - Judy Brower “As trusted professionals who are supplying, educating, and sourcing art for our clients, we should have some education on it and know what we are doing.” - LuAnn Nigara “The art really adds to the luxury feel of the project and is part of showing the good taste of the home.” - Just Brower More About Judy Brower Fancher With two decades of experience traveling the globe to understand the art, architecture, fashion and design of various parts of the world, Judy Brower Fancher brings her own love of international cultures, mixed cultures and all things unique and remarkable to her design and storytelling skills. Her company mission is to create the final layer on spaces that make people whole through reflecting both their current lives and their cultural heritage, while assisting clients and the interior design trade to bring fantastic original art into their lives and their interior designs. Judy’s background includes: Purchasing art in galleries in more than 25 countries around the globe 25-plus years working with architects, developers and interior design firms Bachelor of Arts in Communications from UCLA Minor in Art History Graduate of the Interior Design Institute Attending conferences for: Global original art Global luxury interior design custom materials and installation global furniture and accessories Global real estate and architecture trends Judy believes that with a highly personalized final layer, a home or workplace can embrace more than one background and tell a compelling story to those who visit. In addition, incorporating cultural elements adds beauty that never goes out of style. Connect with Judy Brower Fancher Website Instagram LinkedIn Why acquire art through an art consultant What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #755: Power Talk Friday: Liz Beaman Delman: Fine Art is an Asset, Not an Accessory #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business #239: Katharine Earnhardt – How to Advise Your Clients on Art #413: Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today I am joined by Judy Brower Fancher, of Brower, Miller & Cole Art Consulting. Judy is certified in interior design, and while she isn’t currently working as one, she knows that most interior designers are not trained, nor confident, in selecting art for their clients. Judy is here to help my audience understand that buying those color Xeroxes is never the answer, and some tangible tips for those unfamiliar with the art world. 

Pick It Apart

[2:32] Judy explains what she means about the difference between xerox art and real art.

[9:17]  Just explains how the budget for art should be separate from the design budget.

[20:58] Tangible benefits for an interior designer when they add art into their projects. 

[25:46] Judy lets us know where we can go to source art.

[42:12] How the relationship works between the designer and an art consultant.

LuAnn Nigara and Judy Brower Fancher's Ah-Ha Moments

“Art should be emotional. It should feel as passionate as your first kiss.” - Judy Brower

“As trusted professionals who are supplying, educating, and sourcing art for our clients, we should have some education on it and know what we are doing.” - LuAnn Nigara

“The art really adds to the luxury feel of the project and is part of showing the good taste of the home.” - Just Brower

More About Judy Brower Fancher

With two decades of experience traveling the globe to understand the art, architecture, fashion and design of various parts of the world, Judy Brower Fancher brings her own love of international cultures, mixed cultures and all things unique and remarkable to her design and storytelling skills.

Her company mission is to create the final layer on spaces that make people whole through reflecting both their current lives and their cultural heritage, while assisting clients and the interior design trade to bring fantastic original art into their lives and their interior designs.

Judy’s background includes: Purchasing art in galleries in more than 25 countries around the globe 25-plus years working with architects, developers and interior design firms Bachelor of Arts in Communications from UCLA Minor in Art History Graduate of the Interior Design Institute

Attending conferences for:

Global original art Global luxury interior design custom materials and installation global furniture and accessories Global real estate and architecture trends

Judy believes that with a highly personalized final layer, a home or workplace can embrace more than one background and tell a compelling story to those who visit. In addition, incorporating cultural elements adds beauty that never goes out of style.

Connect with Judy Brower Fancher

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Why acquire art through an art consultant

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#755: Power Talk Friday: Liz Beaman Delman: Fine Art is an Asset, Not an Accessory

#881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

#239: Katharine Earnhardt – How to Advise Your Clients on Art

#413: Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design

]]> 3459 no 890: Lucy Penfield: How Interior Design is an Anthropological Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/890-lucy-penfield-how-interior-design-is-an-anthropological-process Today With Lucy Penfield: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Long-time listeners of the show will know that I rarely get into the pretty, the actual designs, or even the creative process itself. For the most part, I’m focused on the business—not what happens in the creative mind, but the systems and processes and moving parts on the outside of that.  But every once in a while, I make an exception—and today’s episode is one of those. When you hear my guest, Lucy Penfield, speak, you’ll understand why. She’s going to share her creative insight into the design process—and why she relates it to an anthropological discovery.  Pick It Apart [3:50] Lucy explains why designing is like an anthropological dig.  [13:43] Lucy shares how going back to school helped her redefine her design process [part 2 12:55] Lucy details her six-step process and how creativity plays a role at every level [19:23] LuAnn reflects on the authenticity in Lucy’s process LuAnn Nigara and Lucy Penfield's Ah-Ha Moments “We discover what is at the core, what's at the soul for our clients, and sometimes they have their ideas and their inspiration, but what's deeper than that? So I think so often we look at the top surface, the top layer, maybe the frosting, but what's really underneath it all? And so as an anthropologist, I think we uncover.” -Lucy “I love that you said peeling away the onion, and it's almost like you could look in a room and keep discovering things in that room when you're designing at that more elevated level.” -LuAnn “You can get up in the morning and be ho-hum, or you can show up. I think the fun is we have an opportunity to grow.” -Lucy  More About Lucy Penfield Lucy Penfield is a passionate, blue sky thinker whose approach to interior design is unparalleled. Her enchantment and zeal for design have followed her throughout her career as an interior designer, lifestyle product innovator, and art aficionado. Lucy loves the magic of transforming space and creating joy for her clients. As an award-winning interior designer, Lucy is recognized nationally for her sophisticat- ed design style, passion for color, and client-centric methodologies. Her custom, six-step approach to bespoike interiors is anthropological and digs further to uncover true meaning for her clients. With degrees in art history, interior design, and design thinking, Lucy is a dynamic, progressive thought leader. She encourages her clients and team to push the bounds of their realms. From sketching textile and wallcovering collec- tions to designing custom homes, lakeside cottages, and city condos, Lucy garners inspiration from the diverstiy in her work and conquering new challenges. Lucy has great love for her community and is actively involved with non-profit organiza- tions. Beyond her design ventures, she finds joy in cooking exotic dishes, throwing fabulous dinner parties, traveling with her family and exploring new adventures. Lucy's design style is radiant, art-infused, and dazzling. Connect with Lucy Penfield Website Instagram Houzz Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity Tue, 27 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Lucy Penfield: How Interior Design is an Anthropological Process full 890 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lucy Penfield: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Long-time listeners of the show will know that I rarely get into the pretty, the actual designs, or even the creative process itself. For the most part, I’m focused on the... Today With Lucy Penfield: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Long-time listeners of the show will know that I rarely get into the pretty, the actual designs, or even the creative process itself. For the most part, I’m focused on the business—not what happens in the creative mind, but the systems and processes and moving parts on the outside of that.  But every once in a while, I make an exception—and today’s episode is one of those. When you hear my guest, Lucy Penfield, speak, you’ll understand why. She’s going to share her creative insight into the design process—and why she relates it to an anthropological discovery.  Pick It Apart [3:50] Lucy explains why designing is like an anthropological dig.  [13:43] Lucy shares how going back to school helped her redefine her design process [part 2 12:55] Lucy details her six-step process and how creativity plays a role at every level [19:23] LuAnn reflects on the authenticity in Lucy’s process LuAnn Nigara and Lucy Penfield's Ah-Ha Moments “We discover what is at the core, what's at the soul for our clients, and sometimes they have their ideas and their inspiration, but what's deeper than that? So I think so often we look at the top surface, the top layer, maybe the frosting, but what's really underneath it all? And so as an anthropologist, I think we uncover.” -Lucy “I love that you said peeling away the onion, and it's almost like you could look in a room and keep discovering things in that room when you're designing at that more elevated level.” -LuAnn “You can get up in the morning and be ho-hum, or you can show up. I think the fun is we have an opportunity to grow.” -Lucy  More About Lucy Penfield Lucy Penfield is a passionate, blue sky thinker whose approach to interior design is unparalleled. Her enchantment and zeal for design have followed her throughout her career as an interior designer, lifestyle product innovator, and art aficionado. Lucy loves the magic of transforming space and creating joy for her clients. As an award-winning interior designer, Lucy is recognized nationally for her sophisticat- ed design style, passion for color, and client-centric methodologies. Her custom, six-step approach to bespoike interiors is anthropological and digs further to uncover true meaning for her clients. With degrees in art history, interior design, and design thinking, Lucy is a dynamic, progressive thought leader. She encourages her clients and team to push the bounds of their realms. From sketching textile and wallcovering collec- tions to designing custom homes, lakeside cottages, and city condos, Lucy garners inspiration from the diverstiy in her work and conquering new challenges. Lucy has great love for her community and is actively involved with non-profit organiza- tions. Beyond her design ventures, she finds joy in cooking exotic dishes, throwing fabulous dinner parties, traveling with her family and exploring new adventures. Lucy's design style is radiant, art-infused, and dazzling. Connect with Lucy Penfield Website Instagram Houzz Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Long-time listeners of the show will know that I rarely get into the pretty, the actual designs, or even the creative process itself. For the most part, I’m focused on the business—not what happens in the creative mind, but the systems and processes and moving parts on the outside of that. 

But every once in a while, I make an exception—and today’s episode is one of those. When you hear my guest, Lucy Penfield, speak, you’ll understand why. She’s going to share her creative insight into the design process—and why she relates it to an anthropological discovery. 

Pick It Apart

[3:50] Lucy explains why designing is like an anthropological dig. 

[13:43] Lucy shares how going back to school helped her redefine her design process

[part 2 12:55] Lucy details her six-step process and how creativity plays a role at every level

[19:23] LuAnn reflects on the authenticity in Lucy’s process

LuAnn Nigara and Lucy Penfield's Ah-Ha Moments

“We discover what is at the core, what's at the soul for our clients, and sometimes they have their ideas and their inspiration, but what's deeper than that? So I think so often we look at the top surface, the top layer, maybe the frosting, but what's really underneath it all? And so as an anthropologist, I think we uncover.” -Lucy

“I love that you said peeling away the onion, and it's almost like you could look in a room and keep discovering things in that room when you're designing at that more elevated level.” -LuAnn

“You can get up in the morning and be ho-hum, or you can show up. I think the fun is we have an opportunity to grow.” -Lucy 

More About Lucy Penfield

Lucy Penfield is a passionate, blue sky thinker whose approach to interior design is unparalleled. Her enchantment and zeal for design have followed her throughout her career as an interior designer, lifestyle product innovator, and art aficionado. Lucy loves the magic of transforming space and creating joy for her clients.

As an award-winning interior designer, Lucy is recognized nationally for her sophisticat- ed design style, passion for color, and client-centric methodologies. Her custom, six-step approach to bespoike interiors is anthropological and digs further to uncover true meaning for her clients. With degrees in art history, interior design, and design thinking, Lucy is a dynamic, progressive thought leader. She encourages her clients and team to push the bounds of their realms. From sketching textile and wallcovering collec- tions to designing custom homes, lakeside cottages, and city condos, Lucy garners inspiration from the diverstiy in her work and conquering new challenges.

Lucy has great love for her community and is actively involved with non-profit organiza- tions. Beyond her design ventures, she finds joy in cooking exotic dishes, throwing fabulous dinner parties, traveling with her family and exploring new adventures.

Lucy's design style is radiant, art-infused, and dazzling.

Connect with Lucy Penfield

Website

Instagram

Houzz

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

]]> 3832 no 889: Power Talk Friday: Cathy Heflin: Capitalizing on Pinterest to Generate New Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/889-power-talk-friday-cathy-heflin-capitalizing-on-pinterest-to-generate-new-clients Today With Cathy Heflin: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Pinterest is a valuable tool for designers. But how you use it matters. It’s about so much more than just tossing up pretty pictures like on Instagram—in fact, in many ways, it seems like it’s more of a search engine than another social media platform.  We have so many marketing tools that we can add to our toolbox. Today, my guest, Cathy Heflin, is here to teach more about how Pinterest can help businesses grow, and how to put it to work for your business.  Pick It Apart [2:46] Cathy and LuAnn discuss how Pinterest offers more opportunities for businesses than other social media platforms.  [10:16] Cathy shares how Pinterest helps drive traffic to your website.  [25:50] Cathy describes how to get started with Pinterest. [31:29] Cathy explains why using a scheduler can help you invest less time and still make the most of Pinterest.  [40:09] Cathy shares how to find the best SEO keywords on Pinterest.  LuAnn Nigara and Cathy Heflin's Ah-Ha Moments “We have to view Pinterest as a search engine like Google and YouTube, which automatically puts it into way more valuable real estate for our brains, our energy, our money, and our advertising or marketing dollars.” -LuAnn “Done is better than perfect. Get that content up so that you can start to have something to pin to and have places to send your clients.” -Cathy More About Cathy Heflin Cathy Heflin is a Pinterest Marketing Consultant and Strategist. She launched her Pinterest consulting business after personally experiencing how powerful Pinterest was as a driver of traffic to her own blog and online home decor shop. She offers organic and paid ad Pinterest Marketing strategies to help brands grow brand awareness, increase website traffic, increase sales, and grow their email list subscribers. Connect with Cathy Heflin Website Instagram Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #750 Power Talk Friday: Erin Harding: Paid Pinterest Campaigns for Interior Designers #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #487 Power Talk Friday: Vanessa Shepherd: Pinterest Strategies to Grow Your Interior Design Business #331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #292 Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #223 Allison Fannin – Pinterest Tips for your Interior Design Firm Fri, 23 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Cathy Heflin: Capitalizing on Pinterest to Generate New Clients full 889 LuAnn Nigara Today With Cathy Heflin: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Pinterest is a valuable tool for designers. But how you use it matters. It’s about so much more than just tossing up pretty pictures like on Instagram—in fact, in... Today With Cathy Heflin: Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Pinterest is a valuable tool for designers. But how you use it matters. It’s about so much more than just tossing up pretty pictures like on Instagram—in fact, in many ways, it seems like it’s more of a search engine than another social media platform.  We have so many marketing tools that we can add to our toolbox. Today, my guest, Cathy Heflin, is here to teach more about how Pinterest can help businesses grow, and how to put it to work for your business.  Pick It Apart [2:46] Cathy and LuAnn discuss how Pinterest offers more opportunities for businesses than other social media platforms.  [10:16] Cathy shares how Pinterest helps drive traffic to your website.  [25:50] Cathy describes how to get started with Pinterest. [31:29] Cathy explains why using a scheduler can help you invest less time and still make the most of Pinterest.  [40:09] Cathy shares how to find the best SEO keywords on Pinterest.  LuAnn Nigara and Cathy Heflin's Ah-Ha Moments “We have to view Pinterest as a search engine like Google and YouTube, which automatically puts it into way more valuable real estate for our brains, our energy, our money, and our advertising or marketing dollars.” -LuAnn “Done is better than perfect. Get that content up so that you can start to have something to pin to and have places to send your clients.” -Cathy More About Cathy Heflin Cathy Heflin is a Pinterest Marketing Consultant and Strategist. She launched her Pinterest consulting business after personally experiencing how powerful Pinterest was as a driver of traffic to her own blog and online home decor shop. She offers organic and paid ad Pinterest Marketing strategies to help brands grow brand awareness, increase website traffic, increase sales, and grow their email list subscribers. Connect with Cathy Heflin Website Instagram Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #750 Power Talk Friday: Erin Harding: Paid Pinterest Campaigns for Interior Designers #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #487 Power Talk Friday: Vanessa Shepherd: Pinterest Strategies to Grow Your Interior Design Business #331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #292 Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #223 Allison Fannin – Pinterest Tips for your Interior Design Firm Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that Pinterest is a valuable tool for designers. But how you use it matters. It’s about so much more than just tossing up pretty pictures like on Instagram—in fact, in many ways, it seems like it’s more of a search engine than another social media platform. 

We have so many marketing tools that we can add to our toolbox. Today, my guest, Cathy Heflin, is here to teach more about how Pinterest can help businesses grow, and how to put it to work for your business. 

Pick It Apart

[2:46] Cathy and LuAnn discuss how Pinterest offers more opportunities for businesses than other social media platforms. 

[10:16] Cathy shares how Pinterest helps drive traffic to your website. 

[25:50] Cathy describes how to get started with Pinterest.

[31:29] Cathy explains why using a scheduler can help you invest less time and still make the most of Pinterest. 

[40:09] Cathy shares how to find the best SEO keywords on Pinterest. 

LuAnn Nigara and Cathy Heflin's Ah-Ha Moments

“We have to view Pinterest as a search engine like Google and YouTube, which automatically puts it into way more valuable real estate for our brains, our energy, our money, and our advertising or marketing dollars.” -LuAnn

“Done is better than perfect. Get that content up so that you can start to have something to pin to and have places to send your clients.” -Cathy

More About Cathy Heflin

Cathy Heflin is a Pinterest Marketing Consultant and Strategist. She launched her Pinterest consulting business after personally experiencing how powerful Pinterest was as a driver of traffic to her own blog and online home decor shop. She offers organic and paid ad Pinterest Marketing strategies to help brands grow brand awareness, increase website traffic, increase sales, and grow their email list subscribers.

Connect with Cathy Heflin

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

#750 Power Talk Friday: Erin Harding: Paid Pinterest Campaigns for Interior Designers

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#487 Power Talk Friday: Vanessa Shepherd: Pinterest Strategies to Grow Your Interior Design Business

#331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm

#292 Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm

#223 Allison Fannin – Pinterest Tips for your Interior Design Firm

]]> 3818 no 888: Brittany Steptoe-Wright: How Consciously Curated Interior Design Sustains the Planet and Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/888-brittany-steptoe-wright-how-consciously-curated-interior-design-sustains-the-planet-and-your-business Today With Brittany Steptoe-Wright: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Brittany Steptoe-Wright, owner of BSW Design. BSW Design is a certified Vegan Design Firm. Brittany holds design, animals, and the environment near and dear to her heart, so everything they source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. BSW Design also focuses on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or highly recycled content, Brittany’s aim is to bring ethically sound products into her client’s home. Tune in to learn more about this important and ever-growing topic, so join in and make our world a better place one client at a time. Pick It Apart [1:00] Brittany gets right into what inspired her to take Deborah Resenberg’s course. [8:42] How Brittany believes what you put into your home promotes a certain energy and karma. [19:15] How Brittany navigates when pieces that are cruelty-free aren’t sustainable as well.  [27:00] Lessons that Brittany discusses on her podcast, The CEO Podcast. [32:50] How Brittany’s construction firm and design firm work together.  [43:35] What Brittany does if a client comes to them thinking they don’t need a designer.  LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Steptoe-Wright's Ah-Ha Moments “You don’t have to use animal by-products in your home design. You can eat meat, but it doesn't have to be black and white. You can have a cruelty-free home and not be vegan.” - Brittany Steptoe-Wright “This is the essence of creating the core of a highly successful business because you are living and breathing what you believe.” - LuAnn Nigara “When the luxury consumer pushes the designer or builder back and says that they don’t need a designer in the middle, explain why you think they do need one and then let them make the decision.” - LuAnn Nigara  More About Brittany Steptoe-Wright As a designer, I feel my job is first and foremost to make the home a better place for living. I always start the design process from a place of function and lifestyle before moving into aesthetics. Our motto, Consciously Curated Interiors, encompasses both our attention to the family’s lifestyle, as well as our personal commitment to the environmental impact of everything we do. My love for design, animals, and the environment has fostered a unique sense of purpose in my business. We are a certified Vegan Design firm, meaning that everything we source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. We also put a large focus on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or a high recycled content, we attempt to bring ethically sound products into the home for the families we work with. Knowing that the pieces you surround yourself with have a story that is supportive of humanity, animals, and the environment brings a loving and high vibe energy into the home, which makes it all the more magical to live in. Connect with Brittany Steptoe-Wright Website Carpentry Website Instagram Pinterest Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #82: Deborah Rosenberg: Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg: Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here #137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matter to You   #218: Marketing & Resources for Cruelty Free Design #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget and Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line WTFP: Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: An Easy Tool to Increase Your Productivity Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: You Are the Leader in the Room Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska:Entrepreneurship is Hard: Do this to Make it Easier Tue, 20 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Brittany Steptoe-Wright: How Consciously Curated Interior Design Sustains the Planet and Your Business full 888 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brittany Steptoe-Wright: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Brittany Steptoe-Wright, owner of BSW Design. BSW Design is a certified Vegan Design Firm. Brittany holds design, animals, and the environment near and dear to her... Today With Brittany Steptoe-Wright: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Brittany Steptoe-Wright, owner of BSW Design. BSW Design is a certified Vegan Design Firm. Brittany holds design, animals, and the environment near and dear to her heart, so everything they source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. BSW Design also focuses on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or highly recycled content, Brittany’s aim is to bring ethically sound products into her client’s home. Tune in to learn more about this important and ever-growing topic, so join in and make our world a better place one client at a time. Pick It Apart [1:00] Brittany gets right into what inspired her to take Deborah Resenberg’s course. [8:42] How Brittany believes what you put into your home promotes a certain energy and karma. [19:15] How Brittany navigates when pieces that are cruelty-free aren’t sustainable as well.  [27:00] Lessons that Brittany discusses on her podcast, The CEO Podcast. [32:50] How Brittany’s construction firm and design firm work together.  [43:35] What Brittany does if a client comes to them thinking they don’t need a designer.  LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Steptoe-Wright's Ah-Ha Moments “You don’t have to use animal by-products in your home design. You can eat meat, but it doesn't have to be black and white. You can have a cruelty-free home and not be vegan.” - Brittany Steptoe-Wright “This is the essence of creating the core of a highly successful business because you are living and breathing what you believe.” - LuAnn Nigara “When the luxury consumer pushes the designer or builder back and says that they don’t need a designer in the middle, explain why you think they do need one and then let them make the decision.” - LuAnn Nigara  More About Brittany Steptoe-Wright As a designer, I feel my job is first and foremost to make the home a better place for living. I always start the design process from a place of function and lifestyle before moving into aesthetics. Our motto, Consciously Curated Interiors, encompasses both our attention to the family’s lifestyle, as well as our personal commitment to the environmental impact of everything we do. My love for design, animals, and the environment has fostered a unique sense of purpose in my business. We are a certified Vegan Design firm, meaning that everything we source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. We also put a large focus on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or a high recycled content, we attempt to bring ethically sound products into the home for the families we work with. Knowing that the pieces you surround yourself with have a story that is supportive of humanity, animals, and the environment brings a loving and high vibe energy into the home, which makes it all the more magical to live in. Connect with Brittany Steptoe-Wright Website Carpentry Website Instagram Pinterest Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB: #82: Deborah Rosenberg: Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg: Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here #137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management #180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matter to You   #218: Marketing & Resources for Cruelty Free Design #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget and Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective #809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line WTFP: Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: An Easy Tool to Increase Your Productivity Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: You Are the Leader in the Room Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska:Entrepreneurship is Hard: Do this to Make it Easier Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Brittany Steptoe-Wright, owner of BSW Design. BSW Design is a certified Vegan Design Firm. Brittany holds design, animals, and the environment near and dear to her heart, so everything they source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. BSW Design also focuses on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or highly recycled content, Brittany’s aim is to bring ethically sound products into her client’s home. Tune in to learn more about this important and ever-growing topic, so join in and make our world a better place one client at a time.

Pick It Apart

[1:00] Brittany gets right into what inspired her to take Deborah Resenberg’s course.

[8:42] How Brittany believes what you put into your home promotes a certain energy and karma.

[19:15] How Brittany navigates when pieces that are cruelty-free aren’t sustainable as well. 

[27:00] Lessons that Brittany discusses on her podcast, The CEO Podcast.

[32:50] How Brittany’s construction firm and design firm work together. 

[43:35] What Brittany does if a client comes to them thinking they don’t need a designer. 

LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Steptoe-Wright's Ah-Ha Moments

“You don’t have to use animal by-products in your home design. You can eat meat, but it doesn't have to be black and white. You can have a cruelty-free home and not be vegan.” - Brittany Steptoe-Wright

“This is the essence of creating the core of a highly successful business because you are living and breathing what you believe.” - LuAnn Nigara

“When the luxury consumer pushes the designer or builder back and says that they don’t need a designer in the middle, explain why you think they do need one and then let them make the decision.” - LuAnn Nigara 

More About Brittany Steptoe-Wright

As a designer, I feel my job is first and foremost to make the home a better place for living. I always start the design process from a place of function and lifestyle before moving into aesthetics. Our motto, Consciously Curated Interiors, encompasses both our attention to the family’s lifestyle, as well as our personal commitment to the environmental impact of everything we do. My love for design, animals, and the environment has fostered a unique sense of purpose in my business. We are a certified Vegan Design firm, meaning that everything we source is cruelty-free and animal friendly. We also put a large focus on Sustainable Sourcing, whether it be a renewable product, a sustainable manufacturing process, or a high recycled content, we attempt to bring ethically sound products into the home for the families we work with. Knowing that the pieces you surround yourself with have a story that is supportive of humanity, animals, and the environment brings a loving and high vibe energy into the home, which makes it all the more magical to live in.

Connect with Brittany Steptoe-Wright

Website

Carpentry Website

Instagram

Pinterest

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB:

#82: Deborah Rosenberg: Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs

#117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg: Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here

#137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management

#180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matter to You  

#218: Marketing & Resources for Cruelty Free Design

#395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget and Builders

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

#809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a “Green” Bottom Line

WTFP:

Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: An Easy Tool to Increase Your Productivity

Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska: You Are the Leader in the Room

Vita’s Tip in 10 With Vita Vygovska:Entrepreneurship is Hard: Do this to Make it Easier

]]> 4270 no 887: Power Talk Friday: Renee Bush: Bringing the Spark Back Into Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/887-power-talk-friday-renee-bush-bringing-the-spark-back-into-your-interior-design-business Today With Renee Bush: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s common for business owners to feel burnt out, lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to go next. Today, Renee Bush of Tandem is sharing her insights on how to reignite the spark when you just don’t know how to move forward.  Pick It Apart [14:21] Renee shares why creative businesses are so different from other industries, and why inspiration matters to us.  [26:33] Renee discusses the value of having a “north star” guiding you in your business.  [30:59] Renee breaks down the three pillars of taking control of how your brand is perceived.  [35:40] Renee and LuAnn discuss how to attract clients that align with your values.  LuAnn Nigara and Renee Bush’s Ah-Ha Moments “I started figuring out that we need to solve all of this first and create a North Star that then we can use to make decisions. That really set me on a path of helping designers figure out their North Star. Who am I? What do I want? Why do I do what I do? How do I do it? What's my superpower? Who am I trying to work with? All these key things that then become that Northstar business framework that then we use to make decisions.” -Renee “When we have the right client, who is excited to follow our process because they see our value, that brings profitability. They go through the process the way we ask because they get it.” -Renee More About Renee Bush Tandem designs premium brands and solves strategic business problems for interior designers. Everything they do is centered on a strategy to help differentiate you in the market and to define and serve your ideal client. Their goal is to help you identify and define who you are as a business and to give you all the tools and resources you need to manage your premium brand effectively. Working in the design industry for the last decade, Renee initially ran and managed a multi-disciplinary graphic design studio and helped build it from the ground up. From there she began working at Studio McGee as the Director of Design Operations where she worked to build out and refine all of the design operations and processes. It was there that Renee found her love for the Interior Design industry and her driving purpose of helping creative entrepreneurs succeed using quality branding, strategic thinking, and streamlined processes.  Renee has worked with dozens of interior design entrepreneurs to strategize, problem-solve, and refine their brands and business operations. Some of her clients include Boxwood Avenue, High Street Homes, Light & Dwell Interiors, Susannah Holmberg Interiors, and more. With her experience in the design world and a Master's in Business Administration, Renee excels at getting straight to the heart of any issue and always has a creative solution up her sleeve.  Connect with Renee Bush  Website Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business #720 Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis: Defining and Owning Your Niche  #849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design Fri, 16 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Renee Bush: Bringing the Spark Back Into Your Interior Design Business full 887 LuAnn Nigara Today With Renee Bush: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s common for business owners to feel burnt out, lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to go next. Today, Renee Bush of Tandem is sharing her insights on how to reignite the spark when... Today With Renee Bush: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s common for business owners to feel burnt out, lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to go next. Today, Renee Bush of Tandem is sharing her insights on how to reignite the spark when you just don’t know how to move forward.  Pick It Apart [14:21] Renee shares why creative businesses are so different from other industries, and why inspiration matters to us.  [26:33] Renee discusses the value of having a “north star” guiding you in your business.  [30:59] Renee breaks down the three pillars of taking control of how your brand is perceived.  [35:40] Renee and LuAnn discuss how to attract clients that align with your values.  LuAnn Nigara and Renee Bush’s Ah-Ha Moments “I started figuring out that we need to solve all of this first and create a North Star that then we can use to make decisions. That really set me on a path of helping designers figure out their North Star. Who am I? What do I want? Why do I do what I do? How do I do it? What's my superpower? Who am I trying to work with? All these key things that then become that Northstar business framework that then we use to make decisions.” -Renee “When we have the right client, who is excited to follow our process because they see our value, that brings profitability. They go through the process the way we ask because they get it.” -Renee More About Renee Bush Tandem designs premium brands and solves strategic business problems for interior designers. Everything they do is centered on a strategy to help differentiate you in the market and to define and serve your ideal client. Their goal is to help you identify and define who you are as a business and to give you all the tools and resources you need to manage your premium brand effectively. Working in the design industry for the last decade, Renee initially ran and managed a multi-disciplinary graphic design studio and helped build it from the ground up. From there she began working at Studio McGee as the Director of Design Operations where she worked to build out and refine all of the design operations and processes. It was there that Renee found her love for the Interior Design industry and her driving purpose of helping creative entrepreneurs succeed using quality branding, strategic thinking, and streamlined processes.  Renee has worked with dozens of interior design entrepreneurs to strategize, problem-solve, and refine their brands and business operations. Some of her clients include Boxwood Avenue, High Street Homes, Light & Dwell Interiors, Susannah Holmberg Interiors, and more. With her experience in the design world and a Master's in Business Administration, Renee excels at getting straight to the heart of any issue and always has a creative solution up her sleeve.  Connect with Renee Bush  Website Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business #720 Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis: Defining and Owning Your Niche  #849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s common for business owners to feel burnt out, lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to go next. Today, Renee Bush of Tandem is sharing her insights on how to reignite the spark when you just don’t know how to move forward. 

Pick It Apart

[14:21] Renee shares why creative businesses are so different from other industries, and why inspiration matters to us. 

[26:33] Renee discusses the value of having a “north star” guiding you in your business. 

[30:59] Renee breaks down the three pillars of taking control of how your brand is perceived. 

[35:40] Renee and LuAnn discuss how to attract clients that align with your values. 

LuAnn Nigara and Renee Bush’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I started figuring out that we need to solve all of this first and create a North Star that then we can use to make decisions. That really set me on a path of helping designers figure out their North Star. Who am I? What do I want? Why do I do what I do? How do I do it? What's my superpower? Who am I trying to work with? All these key things that then become that Northstar business framework that then we use to make decisions.” -Renee

“When we have the right client, who is excited to follow our process because they see our value, that brings profitability. They go through the process the way we ask because they get it.” -Renee

More About Renee Bush

Tandem designs premium brands and solves strategic business problems for interior designers. Everything they do is centered on a strategy to help differentiate you in the market and to define and serve your ideal client. Their goal is to help you identify and define who you are as a business and to give you all the tools and resources you need to manage your premium brand effectively.

Working in the design industry for the last decade, Renee initially ran and managed a multi-disciplinary graphic design studio and helped build it from the ground up. From there she began working at Studio McGee as the Director of Design Operations where she worked to build out and refine all of the design operations and processes. It was there that Renee found her love for the Interior Design industry and her driving purpose of helping creative entrepreneurs succeed using quality branding, strategic thinking, and streamlined processes. 

Renee has worked with dozens of interior design entrepreneurs to strategize, problem-solve, and refine their brands and business operations. Some of her clients include Boxwood Avenue, High Street Homes, Light & Dwell Interiors, Susannah Holmberg Interiors, and more. With her experience in the design world and a Master's in Business Administration, Renee excels at getting straight to the heart of any issue and always has a creative solution up her sleeve. 

Connect with Renee Bush 

Website

Instagram 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!

#606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business

#720 Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis: Defining and Owning Your Niche

 #849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

]]> 4201 no 886: Victoria Larson: Sometimes You Have to Shrink Your Business to Grow with Intention http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/886-victoria-larson-sometimes-you-have-to-shrink-your-business-to-grow-with-intention Today With Victoria Larson: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by textile and wallpaper designer Victoria Larson. After creating gorgeous hand-screen-printed textile collections and dreamy wallpaper patterns for more than a decade, Victoria made a plan to leave the textiles behind (but in good hands) and focus solely on the wallpaper, which allowed her to reenergize her brand and grow with intention. Good businesses are grown strategically, and believe it or not, sometimes, we have to shrink in order to grow. In this episode, Victoria shares her story. We talk about finding creative solutions, leaving a legacy, and gaining creativity by crunching numbers, and so much more.  Pick It Apart [0:51] Victoria explains how she scaled back the fabric side of her business in order to focus on her wallpapers [11:43] LuAnn and Victoria discuss the importance of relationships, especially with licensing partners. [19:35] Victoria speaks about how she got into the money mindset and how that has helped her have more time to be creative. [33:49] LuAnn asks Victoria to elaborate on some of the lessons learned through her transition. [37:50] LuAnn and Victoria talk about SOPs and why they should always be changing. [39:26] Victoria and LuAnn discuss how to make a solopreneur business sellable. LuAnn Nigara and Victoria Larson's Ah-Ha Moments “One thing I've learned is you have to, for the most part, take emotion out of running a business, and you have to look at it more like a CEO.” – Victoria Larson “I support the business, but the business has to support me.” – Victoria Larson “If you don't mind the systems and the money, you're going to quickly find you can't afford to do what you love anymore.” – Victoria Larson “There's the payoff every day of the week for paying attention to the system and process, because every day of the week you make more money, you have more joy, you have a better outcome, your client experiences better your product delivery is better. So there's all the payoff all the way along, but then there's also, ‘Hey, I have options at the end of this line.’” – LuAnn Nigara More About Victoria Larson Victoria is a creator and weaver of tales through textile and pattern design. She works through the lens of the beauty and soul of the sea; art for art’s sake; fine materials and craftsmen; and the uplifting effect of design on the human spirit. After choosing to stay home with her twin girls, Victoria fell back in love with painting and block printing and eventually launched her first collection of hand-screen-printed fabrics in 2010.  Later she added wallpaper and printed grasscloth. The collection is a fusion of a life-long love of painting, art, and design. Raised on and around the Chesapeake Bay, it’s no surprise many of Victoria’s designs are inspired by the water light. Later, she accompanied her professional Sailor husband to coastal towns all over the world, her sketchbook in hand. Her designs capture the joy of childhood summer days, the soul of the sea, and the simple beauty of natural patterns. Victoria also licenses designs for fabric company, Stout Textiles, and home brand, Cailini Coastal. In addition, she has licensed white-label designs to tabletop and swimwear companies. As VLT’s CEO, she does more than just make pretty things. With a business degree from U of MD, College Park, and a certificate from The MD Institute College of Art, she’s obsessed with how to marry design and business. Most days you will find her in the coastal town of Annapolis with her husband and rescue doodle. The girls have grown and flown. Connect with Victoria Larson Website Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #173 Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc AWDB #360 David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life Tue, 13 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Victoria Larson: Sometimes You Have to Shrink Your Business to Grow with Intention full 886 LuAnn Nigara Today With Victoria Larson: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by textile and wallpaper designer Victoria Larson. After creating gorgeous hand-screen-printed textile collections and dreamy wallpaper patterns for more than a decade, Victoria... Today With Victoria Larson: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by textile and wallpaper designer Victoria Larson. After creating gorgeous hand-screen-printed textile collections and dreamy wallpaper patterns for more than a decade, Victoria made a plan to leave the textiles behind (but in good hands) and focus solely on the wallpaper, which allowed her to reenergize her brand and grow with intention. Good businesses are grown strategically, and believe it or not, sometimes, we have to shrink in order to grow. In this episode, Victoria shares her story. We talk about finding creative solutions, leaving a legacy, and gaining creativity by crunching numbers, and so much more.  Pick It Apart [0:51] Victoria explains how she scaled back the fabric side of her business in order to focus on her wallpapers [11:43] LuAnn and Victoria discuss the importance of relationships, especially with licensing partners. [19:35] Victoria speaks about how she got into the money mindset and how that has helped her have more time to be creative. [33:49] LuAnn asks Victoria to elaborate on some of the lessons learned through her transition. [37:50] LuAnn and Victoria talk about SOPs and why they should always be changing. [39:26] Victoria and LuAnn discuss how to make a solopreneur business sellable. LuAnn Nigara and Victoria Larson's Ah-Ha Moments “One thing I've learned is you have to, for the most part, take emotion out of running a business, and you have to look at it more like a CEO.” – Victoria Larson “I support the business, but the business has to support me.” – Victoria Larson “If you don't mind the systems and the money, you're going to quickly find you can't afford to do what you love anymore.” – Victoria Larson “There's the payoff every day of the week for paying attention to the system and process, because every day of the week you make more money, you have more joy, you have a better outcome, your client experiences better your product delivery is better. So there's all the payoff all the way along, but then there's also, ‘Hey, I have options at the end of this line.’” – LuAnn Nigara More About Victoria Larson Victoria is a creator and weaver of tales through textile and pattern design. She works through the lens of the beauty and soul of the sea; art for art’s sake; fine materials and craftsmen; and the uplifting effect of design on the human spirit. After choosing to stay home with her twin girls, Victoria fell back in love with painting and block printing and eventually launched her first collection of hand-screen-printed fabrics in 2010.  Later she added wallpaper and printed grasscloth. The collection is a fusion of a life-long love of painting, art, and design. Raised on and around the Chesapeake Bay, it’s no surprise many of Victoria’s designs are inspired by the water light. Later, she accompanied her professional Sailor husband to coastal towns all over the world, her sketchbook in hand. Her designs capture the joy of childhood summer days, the soul of the sea, and the simple beauty of natural patterns. Victoria also licenses designs for fabric company, Stout Textiles, and home brand, Cailini Coastal. In addition, she has licensed white-label designs to tabletop and swimwear companies. As VLT’s CEO, she does more than just make pretty things. With a business degree from U of MD, College Park, and a certificate from The MD Institute College of Art, she’s obsessed with how to marry design and business. Most days you will find her in the coastal town of Annapolis with her husband and rescue doodle. The girls have grown and flown. Connect with Victoria Larson Website Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #173 Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc AWDB #360 David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life Today With Victoria Larson:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by textile and wallpaper designer Victoria Larson. After creating gorgeous hand-screen-printed textile collections and dreamy wallpaper patterns for more than a decade, Victoria made a plan to leave the textiles behind (but in good hands) and focus solely on the wallpaper, which allowed her to reenergize her brand and grow with intention.

Good businesses are grown strategically, and believe it or not, sometimes, we have to shrink in order to grow. In this episode, Victoria shares her story. We talk about finding creative solutions, leaving a legacy, and gaining creativity by crunching numbers, and so much more. 

Pick It Apart

[0:51] Victoria explains how she scaled back the fabric side of her business in order to focus on her wallpapers

[11:43] LuAnn and Victoria discuss the importance of relationships, especially with licensing partners.

[19:35] Victoria speaks about how she got into the money mindset and how that has helped her have more time to be creative.

[33:49] LuAnn asks Victoria to elaborate on some of the lessons learned through her transition.

[37:50] LuAnn and Victoria talk about SOPs and why they should always be changing.

[39:26] Victoria and LuAnn discuss how to make a solopreneur business sellable.

LuAnn Nigara and Victoria Larson's Ah-Ha Moments

“One thing I've learned is you have to, for the most part, take emotion out of running a business, and you have to look at it more like a CEO.” – Victoria Larson

“I support the business, but the business has to support me.” – Victoria Larson

“If you don't mind the systems and the money, you're going to quickly find you can't afford to do what you love anymore.” – Victoria Larson

“There's the payoff every day of the week for paying attention to the system and process, because every day of the week you make more money, you have more joy, you have a better outcome, your client experiences better your product delivery is better. So there's all the payoff all the way along, but then there's also, ‘Hey, I have options at the end of this line.’” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Victoria Larson

Victoria is a creator and weaver of tales through textile and pattern design. She works through the lens of the beauty and soul of the sea; art for art’s sake; fine materials and craftsmen; and the uplifting effect of design on the human spirit.

After choosing to stay home with her twin girls, Victoria fell back in love with painting and block printing and eventually launched her first collection of hand-screen-printed fabrics in 2010.  Later she added wallpaper and printed grasscloth. The collection is a fusion of a life-long love of painting, art, and design.

Raised on and around the Chesapeake Bay, it’s no surprise many of Victoria’s designs are inspired by the water light. Later, she accompanied her professional Sailor husband to coastal towns all over the world, her sketchbook in hand. Her designs capture the joy of childhood summer days, the soul of the sea, and the simple beauty of natural patterns.

Victoria also licenses designs for fabric company, Stout Textiles, and home brand, Cailini Coastal. In addition, she has licensed white-label designs to tabletop and swimwear companies.

As VLT’s CEO, she does more than just make pretty things. With a business degree from U of MD, College Park, and a certificate from The MD Institute College of Art, she’s obsessed with how to marry design and business.

Most days you will find her in the coastal town of Annapolis with her husband and rescue doodle. The girls have grown and flown.

Connect with Victoria Larson

Website

Instagram 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #173 Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc

AWDB #360 David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited

AWDB #388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman AWDB #404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc AWDB #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet AWDB #465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career AWDB #839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years AWDB #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

]]> 3832 no 885: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/885-power-talk-friday-stacey-brown-randall-generate-business-referrals-without-asking Today With Stacey Brown Randall: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Stacey Brown Randall, a business referral whiz who is here to help us understand referral marketing strategies and to share her methods of generating referrals naturally—without manipulating, incentivizing, or even asking.  Stacey is the host of the Roadmap to Referrals Podcast and the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, as well as my co-author in A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1). In this episode we talk about systems and strategies, the client experience, and how to find key referral moments throughout your interactions that will make you the designer your clients refer over-and-over again. Pick It Apart [3:40] Stacey explains her approach to getting fabulous referrals and how it’s different then what most of us were taught. [11:56] Stacey speaks to the referral ecosystem and why having a process and a strategy works. [18:55] Stacey and LuAnn discuss the importance of seeing things from the client’s perspective as they move from new to active to alumni. [28:37] Stacey advises to create an expectation map to guide everyone through the client experience. [35:00] LuAnn talks about the vortex phase of a project that is full of pain points for the client and Stacey’s role in helping to remedy that with her advice.  [43:27] Stacey talks about how following her process led one of her coaching clients to both of their largest referrals to date. LuAnn Nigara and Stacey Brown Randall’s Ah-Ha Moments “I want referrals to, just as much as the next person, but I don't want to feel awkward and uncomfortable, and feel like I'm off brand by trying to generate them.” – Stacey Brown Randall “‘Natural’ doesn’t mean no work.” – LuAnn Nigara “You have to understand what's going through the mind of your client in each of the stages as they move from new to active to alumni.” – Stacey Brown Randall “I believe you deserve referrals. But you aren't owed them.” – Stacey Brown Randall “Just like you can design a room, you can design a business that generates referrals.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Stacey Brown Randall Stacey Brown Randall is the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, host of the Roadmap to Referrals podcast and national speaker. Stacey teaches business owners how to generate referrals naturally… without manipulating, incentivizing or even asking.    She has been featured in national publications like Entrepreneur magazine, Investor Business Daily, Forbes, and more. She is also the co-author of Luann Nigara’s book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1). She received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids. Connect with Stacey Brown Randall  Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Roadmap to Referrals Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management AWDB #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience! AWDB #364: Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #426: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generating Business Referrals…Without Asking AWDB #867: Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator? Fri, 09 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generate Business Referrals Without Asking full 885 LuAnn Nigara Today With Stacey Brown Randall: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Stacey Brown Randall, a business referral whiz who is here to help us understand referral marketing strategies and to share her methods of generating referrals... Today With Stacey Brown Randall: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Stacey Brown Randall, a business referral whiz who is here to help us understand referral marketing strategies and to share her methods of generating referrals naturally—without manipulating, incentivizing, or even asking.  Stacey is the host of the Roadmap to Referrals Podcast and the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, as well as my co-author in A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1). In this episode we talk about systems and strategies, the client experience, and how to find key referral moments throughout your interactions that will make you the designer your clients refer over-and-over again. Pick It Apart [3:40] Stacey explains her approach to getting fabulous referrals and how it’s different then what most of us were taught. [11:56] Stacey speaks to the referral ecosystem and why having a process and a strategy works. [18:55] Stacey and LuAnn discuss the importance of seeing things from the client’s perspective as they move from new to active to alumni. [28:37] Stacey advises to create an expectation map to guide everyone through the client experience. [35:00] LuAnn talks about the vortex phase of a project that is full of pain points for the client and Stacey’s role in helping to remedy that with her advice.  [43:27] Stacey talks about how following her process led one of her coaching clients to both of their largest referrals to date. LuAnn Nigara and Stacey Brown Randall’s Ah-Ha Moments “I want referrals to, just as much as the next person, but I don't want to feel awkward and uncomfortable, and feel like I'm off brand by trying to generate them.” – Stacey Brown Randall “‘Natural’ doesn’t mean no work.” – LuAnn Nigara “You have to understand what's going through the mind of your client in each of the stages as they move from new to active to alumni.” – Stacey Brown Randall “I believe you deserve referrals. But you aren't owed them.” – Stacey Brown Randall “Just like you can design a room, you can design a business that generates referrals.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Stacey Brown Randall Stacey Brown Randall is the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, host of the Roadmap to Referrals podcast and national speaker. Stacey teaches business owners how to generate referrals naturally… without manipulating, incentivizing or even asking.    She has been featured in national publications like Entrepreneur magazine, Investor Business Daily, Forbes, and more. She is also the co-author of Luann Nigara’s book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1). She received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids. Connect with Stacey Brown Randall  Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Roadmap to Referrals Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management AWDB #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience! AWDB #364: Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm AWDB #426: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generating Business Referrals…Without Asking AWDB #867: Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator? Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Stacey Brown Randall, a business referral whiz who is here to help us understand referral marketing strategies and to share her methods of generating referrals naturally—without manipulating, incentivizing, or even asking. 

Stacey is the host of the Roadmap to Referrals Podcast and the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, as well as my co-author in A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1).

In this episode we talk about systems and strategies, the client experience, and how to find key referral moments throughout your interactions that will make you the designer your clients refer over-and-over again.

Pick It Apart

[3:40] Stacey explains her approach to getting fabulous referrals and how it’s different then what most of us were taught.

[11:56] Stacey speaks to the referral ecosystem and why having a process and a strategy works.

[18:55] Stacey and LuAnn discuss the importance of seeing things from the client’s perspective as they move from new to active to alumni.

[28:37] Stacey advises to create an expectation map to guide everyone through the client experience.

[35:00] LuAnn talks about the vortex phase of a project that is full of pain points for the client and Stacey’s role in helping to remedy that with her advice. 

[43:27] Stacey talks about how following her process led one of her coaching clients to both of their largest referrals to date.

LuAnn Nigara and Stacey Brown Randall’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I want referrals to, just as much as the next person, but I don't want to feel awkward and uncomfortable, and feel like I'm off brand by trying to generate them.” – Stacey Brown Randall

“‘Natural’ doesn’t mean no work.” – LuAnn Nigara

“You have to understand what's going through the mind of your client in each of the stages as they move from new to active to alumni.” – Stacey Brown Randall

“I believe you deserve referrals. But you aren't owed them.” – Stacey Brown Randall

“Just like you can design a room, you can design a business that generates referrals.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Stacey Brown Randall

Stacey Brown Randall is the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, host of the Roadmap to Referrals podcast and national speaker.

Stacey teaches business owners how to generate referrals naturally… without manipulating, incentivizing or even asking.   

She has been featured in national publications like Entrepreneur magazine, Investor Business Daily, Forbes, and more. She is also the co-author of Luann Nigara’s book, A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts (volume 1).

She received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids.

Connect with Stacey Brown Randall 

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Facebook

Roadmap to Referrals Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall – Take Control Of Your Business – Employee Management

AWDB #93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience!

AWDB #364: Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm

AWDB #426: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generating Business Referrals…Without Asking

AWDB #867: Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator?

]]> 3740 no 884: Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller: Tactics to Building a Thriving Interior Design Business During any Economic Climate http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/884-virginia-toledo-and-jessica-geller-tactics-to-building-a-thriving-interior-design-business-during-any-economic-climate Today With Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Running a business is hard. Running one through economic downturns and recessions is tougher. My guests today, Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller of Toledo Geller, have been running their firm together for 17 years. They’ve seen ups and downs in the financial climate—and through it all, they’ve pivoted, built up their network, and come out stronger than before. Today, they’re sharing what you can do in your business to come through even the toughest of economic climates. Pick It Apart [3:58] Jessica and Virginia share what they’re most proud of in their business over the years.  [17:03] Jessica and Virginia discuss how they’ve always ensured they had a strong pipeline of clients. [26:40] Jessica, Virginia, and LuAnn talk about the importance of flexibility in business.  [43:28] Jessica and Virginia share their onboarding process for their operations manager.  LuAnn Nigara, Virginia Toledo, and Jessica Geller’s Ah-Ha Moments “If you have a business model that you are looking to scale and you have a staff, you feel responsible to keep employed and fed at the end of the day as well as your own family.” -Virginia  “It's clear in observing you all these years, that there is a bond and there is respect and admiration. You couldn't have survived all these years, you couldn't build a team of eight women behind you without it.” -LuAnn “It shows the importance of flexibility. If we just said that we were one thing, and we followed one path, and that was it, we probably would never have made it this far.” -Jessica More About Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller Toledo Geller is a boutique firm that excels at delivering turn-key, custom residences for singles, couples and families who value exceptional design. Virginia and Jessica’s approach begins with a deep dive into how each client dreams of living. Getting to know their clients intimately, thoroughly understanding their wish lists and worries, allows Toledo Geller to create a unique, luxury living space that truly reflects who they are—and what they love. With their mastery of both the design and construction process, Toledo Geller partners with architects and builders from the blueprint stage to completion, providing project management and development oversight. The team works tirelessly to ensure the integrity of each project from start to finish—intent on not just meeting, but exceeding, clients’ expectations. Toledo Geller was founded over a decade ago and they have been declared House Beautiful’s “Next Wave,” and have been finalists in Innovations in Interior Design, “Ones to Watch” and “Rising Stars” by industry magazines and associations. VIRGINIA TOLEDO: Virginia founded Toledo Geller in 2006 after recognizing a need in the luxury residential market for a firm with specialized knowledge in both the design and construction process. Formally trained in interior design, she also gained invaluable experience working along side her father, a general contractor, on construction sites. A native of Brooklyn, Virginia is a mother who loves historical fiction and entertaining in her 1920’s Craftsman style New Jersey home, which she is constantly updating. JESSICA GELLER: The experience of renovating a children’s hospital playroom sparked Jessica’s decision to switch careers from social work to interior design. Her intuitive design sensibility is both innate and learned from experience in the field, and she gravitates towards the perfectly imperfect—such as introducing a color that seems “off” but magically completes the design. A mother of three, Jessica moved to Essex Fells within a year of renovating her 1850s Hoboken townhouse to embark on transforming a 1920s center hall colonial into the perfect cozy home for spending time with her family. Connect with Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller  Website Instagram YouTube Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA #395 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 06 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller: Tactics to Building a Thriving Interior Design Business During any Economic Climate full 884 LuAnn Nigara Today With Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Running a business is hard. Running one through economic downturns and recessions is tougher. My guests today, Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller of Toledo Geller,... Today With Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Running a business is hard. Running one through economic downturns and recessions is tougher. My guests today, Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller of Toledo Geller, have been running their firm together for 17 years. They’ve seen ups and downs in the financial climate—and through it all, they’ve pivoted, built up their network, and come out stronger than before. Today, they’re sharing what you can do in your business to come through even the toughest of economic climates. Pick It Apart [3:58] Jessica and Virginia share what they’re most proud of in their business over the years.  [17:03] Jessica and Virginia discuss how they’ve always ensured they had a strong pipeline of clients. [26:40] Jessica, Virginia, and LuAnn talk about the importance of flexibility in business.  [43:28] Jessica and Virginia share their onboarding process for their operations manager.  LuAnn Nigara, Virginia Toledo, and Jessica Geller’s Ah-Ha Moments “If you have a business model that you are looking to scale and you have a staff, you feel responsible to keep employed and fed at the end of the day as well as your own family.” -Virginia  “It's clear in observing you all these years, that there is a bond and there is respect and admiration. You couldn't have survived all these years, you couldn't build a team of eight women behind you without it.” -LuAnn “It shows the importance of flexibility. If we just said that we were one thing, and we followed one path, and that was it, we probably would never have made it this far.” -Jessica More About Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller Toledo Geller is a boutique firm that excels at delivering turn-key, custom residences for singles, couples and families who value exceptional design. Virginia and Jessica’s approach begins with a deep dive into how each client dreams of living. Getting to know their clients intimately, thoroughly understanding their wish lists and worries, allows Toledo Geller to create a unique, luxury living space that truly reflects who they are—and what they love. With their mastery of both the design and construction process, Toledo Geller partners with architects and builders from the blueprint stage to completion, providing project management and development oversight. The team works tirelessly to ensure the integrity of each project from start to finish—intent on not just meeting, but exceeding, clients’ expectations. Toledo Geller was founded over a decade ago and they have been declared House Beautiful’s “Next Wave,” and have been finalists in Innovations in Interior Design, “Ones to Watch” and “Rising Stars” by industry magazines and associations. VIRGINIA TOLEDO: Virginia founded Toledo Geller in 2006 after recognizing a need in the luxury residential market for a firm with specialized knowledge in both the design and construction process. Formally trained in interior design, she also gained invaluable experience working along side her father, a general contractor, on construction sites. A native of Brooklyn, Virginia is a mother who loves historical fiction and entertaining in her 1920’s Craftsman style New Jersey home, which she is constantly updating. JESSICA GELLER: The experience of renovating a children’s hospital playroom sparked Jessica’s decision to switch careers from social work to interior design. Her intuitive design sensibility is both innate and learned from experience in the field, and she gravitates towards the perfectly imperfect—such as introducing a color that seems “off” but magically completes the design. A mother of three, Jessica moved to Essex Fells within a year of renovating her 1850s Hoboken townhouse to embark on transforming a 1920s center hall colonial into the perfect cozy home for spending time with her family. Connect with Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller  Website Instagram YouTube Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA #395 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Running a business is hard. Running one through economic downturns and recessions is tougher. My guests today, Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller of Toledo Geller, have been running their firm together for 17 years. They’ve seen ups and downs in the financial climate—and through it all, they’ve pivoted, built up their network, and come out stronger than before. Today, they’re sharing what you can do in your business to come through even the toughest of economic climates.

Pick It Apart

[3:58] Jessica and Virginia share what they’re most proud of in their business over the years. 

[17:03] Jessica and Virginia discuss how they’ve always ensured they had a strong pipeline of clients.

[26:40] Jessica, Virginia, and LuAnn talk about the importance of flexibility in business. 

[43:28] Jessica and Virginia share their onboarding process for their operations manager.

 LuAnn Nigara, Virginia Toledo, and Jessica Geller’s Ah-Ha Moments

“If you have a business model that you are looking to scale and you have a staff, you feel responsible to keep employed and fed at the end of the day as well as your own family.” -Virginia 

“It's clear in observing you all these years, that there is a bond and there is respect and admiration. You couldn't have survived all these years, you couldn't build a team of eight women behind you without it.” -LuAnn

“It shows the importance of flexibility. If we just said that we were one thing, and we followed one path, and that was it, we probably would never have made it this far.” -Jessica

More About Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller

Toledo Geller is a boutique firm that excels at delivering turn-key, custom residences for singles, couples and families who value exceptional design.

Virginia and Jessica’s approach begins with a deep dive into how each client dreams of living. Getting to know their clients intimately, thoroughly understanding their wish lists and worries, allows Toledo Geller to create a unique, luxury living space that truly reflects who they are—and what they love.

With their mastery of both the design and construction process, Toledo Geller partners with architects and builders from the blueprint stage to completion, providing project management and development oversight. The team works tirelessly to ensure the integrity of each project from start to finish—intent on not just meeting, but exceeding, clients’ expectations.

Toledo Geller was founded over a decade ago and they have been declared House Beautiful’s “Next Wave,” and have been finalists in Innovations in Interior Design, “Ones to Watch” and “Rising Stars” by industry magazines and associations.

VIRGINIA TOLEDO:

Virginia founded Toledo Geller in 2006 after recognizing a need in the luxury residential market for a firm with specialized knowledge in both the design and construction process. Formally trained in interior design, she also gained invaluable experience working along side her father, a general contractor, on construction sites.

A native of Brooklyn, Virginia is a mother who loves historical fiction and entertaining in her 1920’s Craftsman style New Jersey home, which she is constantly updating.

JESSICA GELLER:

The experience of renovating a children’s hospital playroom sparked Jessica’s decision to switch careers from social work to interior design. Her intuitive design sensibility is both innate and learned from experience in the field, and she gravitates towards the perfectly imperfect—such as introducing a color that seems “off” but magically completes the design.

A mother of three, Jessica moved to Essex Fells within a year of renovating her 1850s Hoboken townhouse to embark on transforming a 1920s center hall colonial into the perfect cozy home for spending time with her family.

Connect with Virginia Toledo and Jessica Geller 

Website

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

#395 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

#663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 4281 no 883: Power Talk Friday: Aubre Fox: Increase Your Profit and Create Your Own Flooring Collection With Revel Woods http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/883-power-talk-friday-aubre-fox-increase-your-profit-and-create-your-own-flooring-collection-with-revel-woods Today With Aubre Fox: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Aubre Fox we answer everything you’ve ever wondered about working with Revel Woods. As the first point of contact and an interior designer herself, Aubre takes us through all of the steps and benefits to getting your flooring through Revel Woods. She also talks about their new showroom packages, which she is very passionate about.  Pick It Apart [1:24] Aubre starts us off talking a little about herself and how she got into Revel Woods.  [6:10] What is the process when a designer wants to work with Revel Woods? [26:34] How the backend works with how you get your commission. [28:28] Aubre breaks down the types of products Revel Woods offers.  [44:37] Aubre tells us about Revel Woods new showroom package. LuAnn Nigara and Aubre Fox's Ah-Ha Moments “As designers when you are working with any person in their technical realm, you have to understand when you’re having a technical conversation, there is no one helping to decide if this is aesthetically a good idea.” - LuAnn Nigara “I love working with designers because it gives me the opportunity to educate them.” - Aubre Fox “That’s how a well designed business runs, it looks at all the different revenue streams that are available to that particular business that makes sense for that business model.” - LuAnn Nigara  More About Aubre Fox Aubre Fox is an Interior Designer and CEO of A Fox Interiors. Aubre has been committed to creating a space where other women can collaborate, inspire and empower one another. Being in the Design world for over 13 years she has used her creativity and “business building spirit” to inspire and encourage other women to chase their dreams. Connect with Aubre Fox Website Instagram  Facebook  Other Shows Mentioned: #329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program #452: Power Talk Friday: Revel Woods & American OEM: A Hardwood Flooring Company With Heart  #865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working With Contractors On A Remodel Fri, 02 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Aubre Fox: Increase Your Profit and Create Your Own Flooring Collection With Revel Woods full 883 LuAnn Nigara Today With Aubre Fox: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Aubre Fox we answer everything you’ve ever wondered about working with Revel Woods. As the first point of contact and an interior designer herself, Aubre takes us through all of... Today With Aubre Fox: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Aubre Fox we answer everything you’ve ever wondered about working with Revel Woods. As the first point of contact and an interior designer herself, Aubre takes us through all of the steps and benefits to getting your flooring through Revel Woods. She also talks about their new showroom packages, which she is very passionate about.  Pick It Apart [1:24] Aubre starts us off talking a little about herself and how she got into Revel Woods.  [6:10] What is the process when a designer wants to work with Revel Woods? [26:34] How the backend works with how you get your commission. [28:28] Aubre breaks down the types of products Revel Woods offers.  [44:37] Aubre tells us about Revel Woods new showroom package. LuAnn Nigara and Aubre Fox's Ah-Ha Moments “As designers when you are working with any person in their technical realm, you have to understand when you’re having a technical conversation, there is no one helping to decide if this is aesthetically a good idea.” - LuAnn Nigara “I love working with designers because it gives me the opportunity to educate them.” - Aubre Fox “That’s how a well designed business runs, it looks at all the different revenue streams that are available to that particular business that makes sense for that business model.” - LuAnn Nigara  More About Aubre Fox Aubre Fox is an Interior Designer and CEO of A Fox Interiors. Aubre has been committed to creating a space where other women can collaborate, inspire and empower one another. Being in the Design world for over 13 years she has used her creativity and “business building spirit” to inspire and encourage other women to chase their dreams. Connect with Aubre Fox Website Instagram  Facebook  Other Shows Mentioned: #329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program #452: Power Talk Friday: Revel Woods & American OEM: A Hardwood Flooring Company With Heart  #865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working With Contractors On A Remodel Today With Aubre Fox:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Aubre Fox we answer everything you’ve ever wondered about working with Revel Woods. As the first point of contact and an interior designer herself, Aubre takes us through all of the steps and benefits to getting your flooring through Revel Woods. She also talks about their new showroom packages, which she is very passionate about. 

Pick It Apart

[1:24] Aubre starts us off talking a little about herself and how she got into Revel Woods. 

[6:10] What is the process when a designer wants to work with Revel Woods?

[26:34] How the backend works with how you get your commission.

[28:28] Aubre breaks down the types of products Revel Woods offers. 

[44:37] Aubre tells us about Revel Woods new showroom package.

LuAnn Nigara and Aubre Fox's Ah-Ha Moments

“As designers when you are working with any person in their technical realm, you have to understand when you’re having a technical conversation, there is no one helping to decide if this is aesthetically a good idea.” - LuAnn Nigara

“I love working with designers because it gives me the opportunity to educate them.” - Aubre Fox

“That’s how a well designed business runs, it looks at all the different revenue streams that are available to that particular business that makes sense for that business model.” - LuAnn Nigara 

More About Aubre Fox

Aubre Fox is an Interior Designer and CEO of A Fox Interiors. Aubre has been committed to creating a space where other women can collaborate, inspire and empower one another. Being in the Design world for over 13 years she has used her creativity and “business building spirit” to inspire and encourage other women to chase their dreams.

Connect with Aubre Fox

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program

#452: Power Talk Friday: Revel Woods & American OEM: A Hardwood Flooring Company With Heart 

#865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working With Contractors On A Remodel

]]> 4290 no 882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-882 Today With Bria Hammel: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am welcoming back Bria Hammel. Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. Bria was on before giving tips on how to scale your interior design business. And let me say, she is still a #smartlady. Bria has perfected her process for her out of state clients, as well as her team, to make the experience as easy and seamless as possible. Today she is sharing how, and the changes that her businesses have experienced since her last visit. Pick It Apart [1:35] Bria shares what she and her business, Bria Hammell Interiors, have been up to since her last visit. [16:50] Bria talks about how she knew to incorporate prices that match a longer time getting projects finished.  [19:00] How EOS has been a lifesaver for Bria’s business and how they use it.  [23:31] Bria shares how she got her integrator. [31:23] Bria explains how she meets for her out-of state clients, having a husband and being a mom of two. [35:08] Bria shares the pitfalls she does encounter and how she handles them.  [48:03] Bria’s post project feedback process. [51:45] Bria’s specification book for the builders. LuAnn Nigara and Bria Hammel’s Ah-Ha Moments “EOS has been such a lifesaver for me because it forces us to sit down weekly and determine what is and isn’t working, and identify problems and come up with solutions.” - Bria Hammel “EOS is the reason we can handle some of this out of state work. It has made us have the structure that we live and breathe by and our clients can see that. So being able to bring them through such a structured process shows them that it doesn't matter if we're in the same city as them or not. We have all that structure. And that all comes from us.” - Bria Hammel “That's what clients want. They want to know that they’re in good hands. And when they come to you as a designer, and you're in good hands, they will trust you with more.” LuAnn Nigara More About Bria Hammel Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories. Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Forbes, Oprah Daily, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, and as well as many other local magazines. Most recently, Bria was named in Traditional Home's 2022 Rising Stars of Design, a huge honor to her team and firm. Her roster of past accomplishments are nothing short of amazing as well— Brooke & Lou's flagship store in Edina, MN, received House Beautiful's Best Home Stores in America 2022, received 2nd Place in Sub-Zero Wolf's Kitchen Design Contest in the Traditional category in 2019, was a finalist for an International Design Award, was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority, and awarded the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways. Connect with Bria Hammel  Website  Brooke and Lou Instagram Brooke and Lou Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #474- Bria Hammel: Keys To Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #578- Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!   #866- McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World   #867- Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator?   Tue, 30 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability full 882 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bria Hammel: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am welcoming back Bria Hammel. Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. Bria was on before giving tips on how to scale your interior design... Today With Bria Hammel: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am welcoming back Bria Hammel. Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. Bria was on before giving tips on how to scale your interior design business. And let me say, she is still a #smartlady. Bria has perfected her process for her out of state clients, as well as her team, to make the experience as easy and seamless as possible. Today she is sharing how, and the changes that her businesses have experienced since her last visit. Pick It Apart [1:35] Bria shares what she and her business, Bria Hammell Interiors, have been up to since her last visit. [16:50] Bria talks about how she knew to incorporate prices that match a longer time getting projects finished.  [19:00] How EOS has been a lifesaver for Bria’s business and how they use it.  [23:31] Bria shares how she got her integrator. [31:23] Bria explains how she meets for her out-of state clients, having a husband and being a mom of two. [35:08] Bria shares the pitfalls she does encounter and how she handles them.  [48:03] Bria’s post project feedback process. [51:45] Bria’s specification book for the builders. LuAnn Nigara and Bria Hammel’s Ah-Ha Moments “EOS has been such a lifesaver for me because it forces us to sit down weekly and determine what is and isn’t working, and identify problems and come up with solutions.” - Bria Hammel “EOS is the reason we can handle some of this out of state work. It has made us have the structure that we live and breathe by and our clients can see that. So being able to bring them through such a structured process shows them that it doesn't matter if we're in the same city as them or not. We have all that structure. And that all comes from us.” - Bria Hammel “That's what clients want. They want to know that they’re in good hands. And when they come to you as a designer, and you're in good hands, they will trust you with more.” LuAnn Nigara More About Bria Hammel Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories. Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Forbes, Oprah Daily, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, and as well as many other local magazines. Most recently, Bria was named in Traditional Home's 2022 Rising Stars of Design, a huge honor to her team and firm. Her roster of past accomplishments are nothing short of amazing as well— Brooke & Lou's flagship store in Edina, MN, received House Beautiful's Best Home Stores in America 2022, received 2nd Place in Sub-Zero Wolf's Kitchen Design Contest in the Traditional category in 2019, was a finalist for an International Design Award, was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority, and awarded the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways. Connect with Bria Hammel  Website  Brooke and Lou Instagram Brooke and Lou Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #474- Bria Hammel: Keys To Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #578- Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!   #866- McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World   #867- Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator?   Today on A Well-Designed Business I am welcoming back Bria Hammel. Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. Bria was on before giving tips on how to scale your interior design business. And let me say, she is still a #smartlady. Bria has perfected her process for her out of state clients, as well as her team, to make the experience as easy and seamless as possible. Today she is sharing how, and the changes that her businesses have experienced since her last visit.

Pick It Apart

[1:35] Bria shares what she and her business, Bria Hammell Interiors, have been up to since her last visit.

[16:50] Bria talks about how she knew to incorporate prices that match a longer time getting projects finished. 

[19:00] How EOS has been a lifesaver for Bria’s business and how they use it. 

[23:31] Bria shares how she got her integrator.

[31:23] Bria explains how she meets for her out-of state clients, having a husband and being a mom of two.

[35:08] Bria shares the pitfalls she does encounter and how she handles them. 

[48:03] Bria’s post project feedback process.

[51:45] Bria’s specification book for the builders.

LuAnn Nigara and Bria Hammel’s Ah-Ha Moments

“EOS has been such a lifesaver for me because it forces us to sit down weekly and determine what is and isn’t working, and identify problems and come up with solutions.” - Bria Hammel

“EOS is the reason we can handle some of this out of state work. It has made us have the structure that we live and breathe by and our clients can see that. So being able to bring them through such a structured process shows them that it doesn't matter if we're in the same city as them or not. We have all that structure. And that all comes from us.” - Bria Hammel

“That's what clients want. They want to know that they’re in good hands. And when they come to you as a designer, and you're in good hands, they will trust you with more.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Bria Hammel

Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories.

Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Forbes, Oprah Daily, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, and as well as many other local magazines. Most recently, Bria was named in Traditional Home's 2022 Rising Stars of Design, a huge honor to her team and firm. Her roster of past accomplishments are nothing short of amazing as well— Brooke & Lou's flagship store in Edina, MN, received House Beautiful's Best Home Stores in America 2022, received 2nd Place in Sub-Zero Wolf's Kitchen Design Contest in the Traditional category in 2019, was a finalist for an International Design Award, was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority, and awarded the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV.

Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways.

Connect with Bria Hammel 

Website 

Brooke and Lou

Instagram

Brooke and Lou Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#474- Bria Hammel: Keys To Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

#578- Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!

 

#866- McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World

 

#867- Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator?

 

]]> 4575 no 881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/881-power-talk-friday-katie-mcdonald-self-care-is-key-to-a-thriving-well-designed-business Today With Katie McDonald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach, raw food chef and instructor at b.nourished. Katie’s motto is self-care is not fluff and it isn’t selfish. That is exactly what she helps her clients through so they can both take care of their business and take care of themselves. Katie has worked with several interior designers over the years and has discovered that in service to their clients and their craft, they ignore their own wellbeing, dismissing their needs, and even their own spaces. If this sounds like you, then you will enjoy this episode. Pick It Apart [2:00] What started Katie on her belief that self-care is not fluff and not selfish. [6:01] Katie explains what to look for in yourself to determine if you are on the brink of needing self-care. [19:07] The areas she focuses on with her clients because there isn’t one model that works for everyone. [24:30] The art of concept and considerations. [31:31] Katies shares the aha moments she and her clients have while working together.  [37:15] Katie’s relation to interior designers and how your home supports your self-care. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald’s Ah-Ha Moments “I eventually hit the point where I realized that I can’t do this anymore and had to start embracing that if I wanted to get things done, I had to take care of myself.” - Katie McDonald “When we slow our role, we become conscious participants in our life.” - Katie McDonald “The best way to gain a competitive edge is to take care of yourself consistently.” - Katie McDonald More About Katie McDonald Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life. Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition. Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care. Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives. Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy. Connect with Katie McDonald  Website Katie McDonald’s coaching website to schedule your complimentary 30 minute self-care strategy session Katie McDonald’s planners (get 15% off with code LUANN) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #778: Deborah Main: A Journey Through Illness to Interior Design #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate #858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower Sass Says   Fri, 26 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business full 881 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie McDonald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach, raw food chef and instructor at b.nourished. Katie’s motto is self-care is not fluff and it isn’t selfish. That is... Today With Katie McDonald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach, raw food chef and instructor at b.nourished. Katie’s motto is self-care is not fluff and it isn’t selfish. That is exactly what she helps her clients through so they can both take care of their business and take care of themselves. Katie has worked with several interior designers over the years and has discovered that in service to their clients and their craft, they ignore their own wellbeing, dismissing their needs, and even their own spaces. If this sounds like you, then you will enjoy this episode. Pick It Apart [2:00] What started Katie on her belief that self-care is not fluff and not selfish. [6:01] Katie explains what to look for in yourself to determine if you are on the brink of needing self-care. [19:07] The areas she focuses on with her clients because there isn’t one model that works for everyone. [24:30] The art of concept and considerations. [31:31] Katies shares the aha moments she and her clients have while working together.  [37:15] Katie’s relation to interior designers and how your home supports your self-care. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald’s Ah-Ha Moments “I eventually hit the point where I realized that I can’t do this anymore and had to start embracing that if I wanted to get things done, I had to take care of myself.” - Katie McDonald “When we slow our role, we become conscious participants in our life.” - Katie McDonald “The best way to gain a competitive edge is to take care of yourself consistently.” - Katie McDonald More About Katie McDonald Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life. Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition. Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care. Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives. Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy. Connect with Katie McDonald  Website Katie McDonald’s coaching website to schedule your complimentary 30 minute self-care strategy session Katie McDonald’s planners (get 15% off with code LUANN) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #778: Deborah Main: A Journey Through Illness to Interior Design #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate #858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower Sass Says   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach, raw food chef and instructor at b.nourished. Katie’s motto is self-care is not fluff and it isn’t selfish. That is exactly what she helps her clients through so they can both take care of their business and take care of themselves. Katie has worked with several interior designers over the years and has discovered that in service to their clients and their craft, they ignore their own wellbeing, dismissing their needs, and even their own spaces. If this sounds like you, then you will enjoy this episode.

Pick It Apart

[2:00] What started Katie on her belief that self-care is not fluff and not selfish.

[6:01] Katie explains what to look for in yourself to determine if you are on the brink of needing self-care.

[19:07] The areas she focuses on with her clients because there isn’t one model that works for everyone.

[24:30] The art of concept and considerations.

[31:31] Katies shares the aha moments she and her clients have while working together. 

[37:15] Katie’s relation to interior designers and how your home supports your self-care.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I eventually hit the point where I realized that I can’t do this anymore and had to start embracing that if I wanted to get things done, I had to take care of myself.” - Katie McDonald

“When we slow our role, we become conscious participants in our life.” - Katie McDonald

“The best way to gain a competitive edge is to take care of yourself consistently.” - Katie McDonald

More About Katie McDonald

Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life.

Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition.

Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care.

Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives.

Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy.

Connect with Katie McDonald 

Website

Katie McDonald’s coaching website to schedule your complimentary 30 minute self-care strategy session

Katie McDonald’s planners (get 15% off with code LUANN)

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#778: Deborah Main: A Journey Through Illness to Interior Design

#811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

#858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower

Sass Says

 

]]> 4647 no 880: Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum: Adventures in Business with the Brownstone Boys http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/880-barry-bordelon-and-jordan-slocum-adventures-in-business-with-the-brownstone-boys Today With Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, AKA the Brownstone Boys. Barry and Jordan are designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers who followed their passions and serendipitously fell into a flourishing business together. In 2018, Jordan and Barry bought a brownstone in Brooklyn and started The Brownstone Boys blog the day they closed on the house, and that’s just the beginning of their adventure. Today they are renovating their way across Brooklyn and New York City, one brownstone at a time.  In our interview, The Brownstone Boys share how they grew their business organically, how they are implementing systems and processes, and how to balance work and life when you’re in business with your partner. Pick It Apart [2:33] Jordan talks about the significance of his and Barry’s second date—a bike ride through Brooklyn neighborhoods where they realized they shared a love of brownstones. [10:44] Jordan explains how The Brownstone Boys blog began and how that led to their first clients. [20:13] LuAnn makes a point about how fundamental business questions and processes are imperative to successful businesses. [35:43] Barry discusses how the business has grown organically over the last few years, but now they are intentionally restructuring and building in systems and processes to help it run smoother as they grow and pivot to different platforms.  [41:01 LuAnn asks Jordan and Barry to share lessons they have learned through their business and partnership.  [52:09] Jordan shares big news about his and Barry’s future. LuAnn Nigara and The Brownstone Boys’ Ah-Ha Moments “I think a lot of that has to do with listening…And no matter how many systems we implement, I still want that one-on-one authentic relationship with our client.” – Jordan Slocum “We started our business, and it happened very organically…And right now we're at a point in the business that we're going back and really building in some structure that we should have a long time ago.” – Barry Bordelon “We're business partners, but we're also life partners. And I think something that I'm really excited for with the new processes is separating—or trying to separate—work from our home life.” – Jordan Slocum  “There are difficult times. But I think it's just really cool to be building a business with a partner and to be going through this together and to have this thing that's our own.” - Barry Bordelon More About The Brownstone Boys We’re Jordan & Barry, AKA The Brownstone Boys. We’re designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers. We have a passion for old homes and everything that comes along with them: the details, the quirks, the character, and especially the parts that need lots of love. We have a ton of respect for all of those gorgeous original details and love restoring them but we are not afraid to add some modern touches. We bought our 130 year old historic Brooklyn brownstone in 2018 and we’ve been slowly restoring it ever since. We started our blog and Instagram account the day we closed on the house. When we started our journey we found it hard to find the right information, but some of the best real estate, renovation, and design advice that we did find was on other helpful and creative blogs. So we decided to share our experiences as well. We are so fortunate and thankful that other people found it helpful…and maybe a little entertaining! We enjoyed sharing our journey and answering the thousands of questions we received. Eventually, we started helping people more and more with design advice, contractor & architect recommendations, and generally holding the hands of others who were trying to navigate renovating a historic home in New York and even around the world. Some people that reached out really seemed like they needed more help than just a recommendation or suggestion, so we thought long and hard about it and nervously asked someone one day, “Would you like us to help you do it?” And like that, we had our first client. That quickly led to a second, then a third, and now we are full time Brownstone Boys designing and renovating our way across Brooklyn and NYC. We have found our true passion and pinch ourselves everyday that it’s also now our careers. Connect with The Brownstone Boys Website Instagram  Youtube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development AWDB #692: Power Talk Friday: Fiona Mostyn: Leveraging Your Blog to Bolster Your Interior Design Business AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed AWDB #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation   Tue, 23 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum: Adventures in Business with the Brownstone Boys full 880 LuAnn Nigara Today With Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, AKA the Brownstone Boys. Barry and Jordan are designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers who followed their passions and... Today With Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, AKA the Brownstone Boys. Barry and Jordan are designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers who followed their passions and serendipitously fell into a flourishing business together. In 2018, Jordan and Barry bought a brownstone in Brooklyn and started The Brownstone Boys blog the day they closed on the house, and that’s just the beginning of their adventure. Today they are renovating their way across Brooklyn and New York City, one brownstone at a time.  In our interview, The Brownstone Boys share how they grew their business organically, how they are implementing systems and processes, and how to balance work and life when you’re in business with your partner. Pick It Apart [2:33] Jordan talks about the significance of his and Barry’s second date—a bike ride through Brooklyn neighborhoods where they realized they shared a love of brownstones. [10:44] Jordan explains how The Brownstone Boys blog began and how that led to their first clients. [20:13] LuAnn makes a point about how fundamental business questions and processes are imperative to successful businesses. [35:43] Barry discusses how the business has grown organically over the last few years, but now they are intentionally restructuring and building in systems and processes to help it run smoother as they grow and pivot to different platforms.  [41:01 LuAnn asks Jordan and Barry to share lessons they have learned through their business and partnership.  [52:09] Jordan shares big news about his and Barry’s future. LuAnn Nigara and The Brownstone Boys’ Ah-Ha Moments “I think a lot of that has to do with listening…And no matter how many systems we implement, I still want that one-on-one authentic relationship with our client.” – Jordan Slocum “We started our business, and it happened very organically…And right now we're at a point in the business that we're going back and really building in some structure that we should have a long time ago.” – Barry Bordelon “We're business partners, but we're also life partners. And I think something that I'm really excited for with the new processes is separating—or trying to separate—work from our home life.” – Jordan Slocum  “There are difficult times. But I think it's just really cool to be building a business with a partner and to be going through this together and to have this thing that's our own.” - Barry Bordelon More About The Brownstone Boys We’re Jordan & Barry, AKA The Brownstone Boys. We’re designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers. We have a passion for old homes and everything that comes along with them: the details, the quirks, the character, and especially the parts that need lots of love. We have a ton of respect for all of those gorgeous original details and love restoring them but we are not afraid to add some modern touches. We bought our 130 year old historic Brooklyn brownstone in 2018 and we’ve been slowly restoring it ever since. We started our blog and Instagram account the day we closed on the house. When we started our journey we found it hard to find the right information, but some of the best real estate, renovation, and design advice that we did find was on other helpful and creative blogs. So we decided to share our experiences as well. We are so fortunate and thankful that other people found it helpful…and maybe a little entertaining! We enjoyed sharing our journey and answering the thousands of questions we received. Eventually, we started helping people more and more with design advice, contractor & architect recommendations, and generally holding the hands of others who were trying to navigate renovating a historic home in New York and even around the world. Some people that reached out really seemed like they needed more help than just a recommendation or suggestion, so we thought long and hard about it and nervously asked someone one day, “Would you like us to help you do it?” And like that, we had our first client. That quickly led to a second, then a third, and now we are full time Brownstone Boys designing and renovating our way across Brooklyn and NYC. We have found our true passion and pinch ourselves everyday that it’s also now our careers. Connect with The Brownstone Boys Website Instagram  Youtube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development AWDB #692: Power Talk Friday: Fiona Mostyn: Leveraging Your Blog to Bolster Your Interior Design Business AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed AWDB #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation   Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, AKA the Brownstone Boys. Barry and Jordan are designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers who followed their passions and serendipitously fell into a flourishing business together.

In 2018, Jordan and Barry bought a brownstone in Brooklyn and started The Brownstone Boys blog the day they closed on the house, and that’s just the beginning of their adventure. Today they are renovating their way across Brooklyn and New York City, one brownstone at a time. 

In our interview, The Brownstone Boys share how they grew their business organically, how they are implementing systems and processes, and how to balance work and life when you’re in business with your partner.

Pick It Apart

[2:33] Jordan talks about the significance of his and Barry’s second date—a bike ride through Brooklyn neighborhoods where they realized they shared a love of brownstones.

[10:44] Jordan explains how The Brownstone Boys blog began and how that led to their first clients.

[20:13] LuAnn makes a point about how fundamental business questions and processes are imperative to successful businesses.

[35:43] Barry discusses how the business has grown organically over the last few years, but now they are intentionally restructuring and building in systems and processes to help it run smoother as they grow and pivot to different platforms. 

[41:01 LuAnn asks Jordan and Barry to share lessons they have learned through their business and partnership. 

[52:09] Jordan shares big news about his and Barry’s future.

LuAnn Nigara and The Brownstone Boys’ Ah-Ha Moments

“I think a lot of that has to do with listening…And no matter how many systems we implement, I still want that one-on-one authentic relationship with our client.” – Jordan Slocum

“We started our business, and it happened very organically…And right now we're at a point in the business that we're going back and really building in some structure that we should have a long time ago.” – Barry Bordelon

“We're business partners, but we're also life partners. And I think something that I'm really excited for with the new processes is separating—or trying to separate—work from our home life.” – Jordan Slocum 

“There are difficult times. But I think it's just really cool to be building a business with a partner and to be going through this together and to have this thing that's our own.” - Barry Bordelon

More About The Brownstone Boys

We’re Jordan & Barry, AKA The Brownstone Boys.

We’re designers, DIY-ers, renovators, and restorers. We have a passion for old homes and everything that comes along with them: the details, the quirks, the character, and especially the parts that need lots of love. We have a ton of respect for all of those gorgeous original details and love restoring them but we are not afraid to add some modern touches.

We bought our 130 year old historic Brooklyn brownstone in 2018 and we’ve been slowly restoring it ever since. We started our blog and Instagram account the day we closed on the house. When we started our journey we found it hard to find the right information, but some of the best real estate, renovation, and design advice that we did find was on other helpful and creative blogs. So we decided to share our experiences as well. We are so fortunate and thankful that other people found it helpful…and maybe a little entertaining! We enjoyed sharing our journey and answering the thousands of questions we received. Eventually, we started helping people more and more with design advice, contractor & architect recommendations, and generally holding the hands of others who were trying to navigate renovating a historic home in New York and even around the world.

Some people that reached out really seemed like they needed more help than just a recommendation or suggestion, so we thought long and hard about it and nervously asked someone one day, “Would you like us to help you do it?” And like that, we had our first client. That quickly led to a second, then a third, and now we are full time Brownstone Boys designing and renovating our way across Brooklyn and NYC. We have found our true passion and pinch ourselves everyday that it’s also now our careers.

Connect with The Brownstone Boys

Website

Instagram 

Youtube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

AWDB #692: Power Talk Friday: Fiona Mostyn: Leveraging Your Blog to Bolster Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

AWDB #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager

AWDB #879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation

 

]]> 4088 no 879: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/879-power-talk-friday-sarah-daniele-mydoma-studio-and-the-business-of-change-as-the-interior-design-industry-enters-a-digital-transformation Today With Sarah Daniele: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by software designer Sarah Daniele. Sarah is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio, an all-in-one project management solution for interior designers. Sarah is a professionally educated interior designer, and she is passionate about building tools and technology that help other designers grow their businesses.  Through Mydoma, Sarah has a unique, top-level perspective on industry trends, and she is here to help us interpret those insights and share her predictions for what’s to come. We talk about task management software, virtual team members, advances in 3D rendering and virtual staging, and the benefits of adding convenience to clients and projects with technology. Pick It Apart [1:47] Sarah and LuAnn discuss how the design industry is undergoing a digital transformation. [9:17] Sara emphasizes the importance of keeping communication all in one place and how easy that is with the Mydoma app. [20:13] LuAnn asks Sarah to talk about her feelings and thoughts on VA’s and virtual team members in relation to the interior design industry. [27:37] Sarah gets excited as she discusses the trends she is seeing in 3D rendering. [40:32] Sarah and LuAnn discuss virtual staging and its role in the industry. [52:48] Sarah mentions that many designers are adopting online payment strategies and how this is a necessary service for convenience and luxury. LuAnn Nigara and Sarah Daniele's Ah-Ha Moments “When you get a digital transformation, you have to sift through what's right for your business for what you're trying to achieve.” – Sarah Daniele “Communication is at the heart of the interior design business. If you are not on top of your communication with your vendors, then you are not able to keep on top of your communication with your consumers. And if you are not communicating with your consumers, and you're just like every other Tom, Dick and Harry out there, that's not giving good service.” – LuAnn Nigara  “Rendering does that—3D visualization, shows them the future.” – Sarah Daniele “You can't be fearful you got to go in you got to jump in and you got to try. And you know what? Learning something new is hard sometimes.” – Sarah Daniele “The epitome of the cornerstone of customer service to the luxury market is making it convenient for [the client]. Whether it’s an appointment, a payment, a selection—it’s all about them.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Sarah Daniele Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. Connect with Sarah Daniele Website Instagram  Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Other Shows Mentioned: #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’ s new for you at Mydoma Studio! #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager Fri, 19 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Daniele: Mydoma Studio and the Business of Change as the Interior Design Industry Enters a Digital Transformation full 879 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sarah Daniele: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by software designer Sarah Daniele. Sarah is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio, an all-in-one project management solution for interior designers. Sarah is a professionally... Today With Sarah Daniele: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by software designer Sarah Daniele. Sarah is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio, an all-in-one project management solution for interior designers. Sarah is a professionally educated interior designer, and she is passionate about building tools and technology that help other designers grow their businesses.  Through Mydoma, Sarah has a unique, top-level perspective on industry trends, and she is here to help us interpret those insights and share her predictions for what’s to come. We talk about task management software, virtual team members, advances in 3D rendering and virtual staging, and the benefits of adding convenience to clients and projects with technology. Pick It Apart [1:47] Sarah and LuAnn discuss how the design industry is undergoing a digital transformation. [9:17] Sara emphasizes the importance of keeping communication all in one place and how easy that is with the Mydoma app. [20:13] LuAnn asks Sarah to talk about her feelings and thoughts on VA’s and virtual team members in relation to the interior design industry. [27:37] Sarah gets excited as she discusses the trends she is seeing in 3D rendering. [40:32] Sarah and LuAnn discuss virtual staging and its role in the industry. [52:48] Sarah mentions that many designers are adopting online payment strategies and how this is a necessary service for convenience and luxury. LuAnn Nigara and Sarah Daniele's Ah-Ha Moments “When you get a digital transformation, you have to sift through what's right for your business for what you're trying to achieve.” – Sarah Daniele “Communication is at the heart of the interior design business. If you are not on top of your communication with your vendors, then you are not able to keep on top of your communication with your consumers. And if you are not communicating with your consumers, and you're just like every other Tom, Dick and Harry out there, that's not giving good service.” – LuAnn Nigara  “Rendering does that—3D visualization, shows them the future.” – Sarah Daniele “You can't be fearful you got to go in you got to jump in and you got to try. And you know what? Learning something new is hard sometimes.” – Sarah Daniele “The epitome of the cornerstone of customer service to the luxury market is making it convenient for [the client]. Whether it’s an appointment, a payment, a selection—it’s all about them.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Sarah Daniele Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. Connect with Sarah Daniele Website Instagram  Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Other Shows Mentioned: #91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio #177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’ s new for you at Mydoma Studio! #555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business #375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business #618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager Today With Sarah Daniele:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by software designer Sarah Daniele. Sarah is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio, an all-in-one project management solution for interior designers. Sarah is a professionally educated interior designer, and she is passionate about building tools and technology that help other designers grow their businesses. 

Through Mydoma, Sarah has a unique, top-level perspective on industry trends, and she is here to help us interpret those insights and share her predictions for what’s to come. We talk about task management software, virtual team members, advances in 3D rendering and virtual staging, and the benefits of adding convenience to clients and projects with technology.

Pick It Apart

[1:47] Sarah and LuAnn discuss how the design industry is undergoing a digital transformation.

[9:17] Sara emphasizes the importance of keeping communication all in one place and how easy that is with the Mydoma app.

[20:13] LuAnn asks Sarah to talk about her feelings and thoughts on VA’s and virtual team members in relation to the interior design industry.

[27:37] Sarah gets excited as she discusses the trends she is seeing in 3D rendering.

[40:32] Sarah and LuAnn discuss virtual staging and its role in the industry.

[52:48] Sarah mentions that many designers are adopting online payment strategies and how this is a necessary service for convenience and luxury.

LuAnn Nigara and Sarah Daniele's Ah-Ha Moments

“When you get a digital transformation, you have to sift through what's right for your business for what you're trying to achieve.” – Sarah Daniele

“Communication is at the heart of the interior design business. If you are not on top of your communication with your vendors, then you are not able to keep on top of your communication with your consumers. And if you are not communicating with your consumers, and you're just like every other Tom, Dick and Harry out there, that's not giving good service.” – LuAnn Nigara 

“Rendering does that—3D visualization, shows them the future.” – Sarah Daniele

“You can't be fearful you got to go in you got to jump in and you got to try. And you know what? Learning something new is hard sometimes.” – Sarah Daniele

“The epitome of the cornerstone of customer service to the luxury market is making it convenient for [the client]. Whether it’s an appointment, a payment, a selection—it’s all about them.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Sarah Daniele

Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the premier platform for interior designers; a workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast.

Connect with Sarah Daniele

Website

Instagram 

Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

#177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’ s new for you at Mydoma Studio!

#555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business

#375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business

#618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design

#770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design

#864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager

]]> 4613 no 878: Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/878-throwback-tuesday-brad-leavitt-a-builders-perspective-on-the-design-build-process Today With Brad Leavitt: Today we’re doing a Throwback Tuesday with Brad Leavitt! Brad is the President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. He’s also one of the speakers at LuAnn Live 2023, which is why we couldn’t miss the chance to bring one of his shows back. In today’s episode, we’ll learn what is his perspective on working alongside interior designers for his project and how this has made his life easier!  More About Brad Leavitt Brad Leavitt is President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. AFT Construction, as known throughout the industry, is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad was awarded as an “Icon” in the AZ building industry by Sources for Design in October, 2019. He was also recognized as a 2022 Phoenix Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes Phoenix’s Top 100 CEO’s & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that includes demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively, the Phoenix 2022 Titans have a combined total of annual revenue of $32B and employ more than 85,000 individuals.  Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Louisiana Pacific, Rinnai. Pella, Subzero-Wolf, Buildertrend, Cambria, and Elkay. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Connect with Brad Leavitt Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Tue, 16 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process full 878 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brad Leavitt: Today we’re doing a Throwback Tuesday with Brad Leavitt! Brad is the President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. He’s also one of the speakers... Today With Brad Leavitt: Today we’re doing a Throwback Tuesday with Brad Leavitt! Brad is the President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. He’s also one of the speakers at LuAnn Live 2023, which is why we couldn’t miss the chance to bring one of his shows back. In today’s episode, we’ll learn what is his perspective on working alongside interior designers for his project and how this has made his life easier!  More About Brad Leavitt Brad Leavitt is President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. AFT Construction, as known throughout the industry, is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad was awarded as an “Icon” in the AZ building industry by Sources for Design in October, 2019. He was also recognized as a 2022 Phoenix Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes Phoenix’s Top 100 CEO’s & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that includes demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively, the Phoenix 2022 Titans have a combined total of annual revenue of $32B and employ more than 85,000 individuals.  Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Louisiana Pacific, Rinnai. Pella, Subzero-Wolf, Buildertrend, Cambria, and Elkay. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Connect with Brad Leavitt Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Today With Brad Leavitt:

Today we’re doing a Throwback Tuesday with Brad Leavitt! Brad is the President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. He’s also one of the speakers at LuAnn Live 2023, which is why we couldn’t miss the chance to bring one of his shows back.

In today’s episode, we’ll learn what is his perspective on working alongside interior designers for his project and how this has made his life easier! 

More About Brad Leavitt

Brad Leavitt is President and Founder of “A Finer Touch Construction” - a Scottsdale based luxury residential and commercial builder. AFT Construction, as known throughout the industry, is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad was awarded as an “Icon” in the AZ building industry by Sources for Design in October, 2019. He was also recognized as a 2022 Phoenix Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes Phoenix’s Top 100 CEO’s & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that includes demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively, the Phoenix 2022 Titans have a combined total of annual revenue of $32B and employ more than 85,000 individuals. 

Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Louisiana Pacific, Rinnai. Pella, Subzero-Wolf, Buildertrend, Cambria, and Elkay. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley.

His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports

Connect with Brad Leavitt

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

]]> 4042 no 877: Power Talk Friday: Jisun Sunny Fisher: Your Brain is Your Blueprint for Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/877-power-talk-friday-jisun-sunny-fisher-your-brain-is-your-blueprint-for-success Today With Jisun Sunny Fisher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often talk about the power of mindset. Limiting beliefs are tied to almost every issue you can have in your business, and in all of my years of coaching and helping other business owners, I can say that almost every single time, the key came down to mindset. Today, I’m joined by psychologist and happiness coach Jisun Sunny Fisher. She works at the intersection of spirituality and science, helping courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Jisun is sharing with us why the brain is the blueprint for success and what you can do to harness it.  Pick It Apart [3:48] Jisun shares why the brain is the blueprint for success (and why “success” might not mean what you think it does) [10:01] Jisun breaks down the brain science behind limiting beliefs and how your mind works [15:00] LuAnn shares her own insight into the power of visualization [30:50] Jisun reveals 3 questions to ask yourself to begin to unlock your blueprint to success [43:03] Jisun discusses how to take your answers to those questions and start to rewire your brain LuAnn Nigara and Jisun Fisher's Ah-Ha Moments “If we take the time to do the reflection, that we might have defined success by what our mothers, our fathers, our friends, our husbands, our wives, our peers have called it—that seems very logical to me that we could all fall prey to doing that. But what I think I heard you in there is that it sounds like then additionally, our brain at a subconscious level, has two things happening. It has our true desire unconscious there, but also has built on those other people's desires for us.” -LuAnn “Underneath the beta frequency is the alpha frequency. This is when you're relaxed, and you want to read a story you have have a cup of tea in front of you, and you're just in the state of relaxation. That's the Alpha frequency. The frequency underneath that is the theta. And the theta frequency is where all the magic happens.” -Jisun More About Jisun Sunny Fisher Jisun Sunny Fisher, PhD, MA, CHt, CAPP, is a licensed psychologist, published author, and happiness coach who helps courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Through her powerful and unique guidance, clients learn to master their narratives, break old patterns, and turn their weaknesses into superpowers. They learn to embody absolute clarity, unshakeable confidence, and ultimate conviction. Dr. J received her graduate degrees from Columbia University and the University of Connecticut. She is also certified in Positive Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Hypnosis. Dr. J’s thought leadership has been featured in Yahoo!Life, Thrive Global, Bustle, Goalcast, and more. Dr. J loves hiking with her pups, dabbling on the piano, reading tarot for growth and healing, and making annual trips to her beloved land of Hawai’i. If you catch her in the kitchen cooking, run the other way! Her book, The Bodhi Blueprint, Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose, was published in June 2022 and has received five star reviews. Find out more about Dr. J at www.bodhifully.com. Connect with Jisun Fisher Website  Instagram  The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose Free Chapter of The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist   Fri, 12 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jisun Sunny Fisher: Your Brain is Your Blueprint for Success full 877 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jisun Sunny Fisher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often talk about the power of mindset. Limiting beliefs are tied to almost every issue you can have in your business, and in all of my years of coaching and helping other business... Today With Jisun Sunny Fisher: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often talk about the power of mindset. Limiting beliefs are tied to almost every issue you can have in your business, and in all of my years of coaching and helping other business owners, I can say that almost every single time, the key came down to mindset. Today, I’m joined by psychologist and happiness coach Jisun Sunny Fisher. She works at the intersection of spirituality and science, helping courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Jisun is sharing with us why the brain is the blueprint for success and what you can do to harness it.  Pick It Apart [3:48] Jisun shares why the brain is the blueprint for success (and why “success” might not mean what you think it does) [10:01] Jisun breaks down the brain science behind limiting beliefs and how your mind works [15:00] LuAnn shares her own insight into the power of visualization [30:50] Jisun reveals 3 questions to ask yourself to begin to unlock your blueprint to success [43:03] Jisun discusses how to take your answers to those questions and start to rewire your brain LuAnn Nigara and Jisun Fisher's Ah-Ha Moments “If we take the time to do the reflection, that we might have defined success by what our mothers, our fathers, our friends, our husbands, our wives, our peers have called it—that seems very logical to me that we could all fall prey to doing that. But what I think I heard you in there is that it sounds like then additionally, our brain at a subconscious level, has two things happening. It has our true desire unconscious there, but also has built on those other people's desires for us.” -LuAnn “Underneath the beta frequency is the alpha frequency. This is when you're relaxed, and you want to read a story you have have a cup of tea in front of you, and you're just in the state of relaxation. That's the Alpha frequency. The frequency underneath that is the theta. And the theta frequency is where all the magic happens.” -Jisun More About Jisun Sunny Fisher Jisun Sunny Fisher, PhD, MA, CHt, CAPP, is a licensed psychologist, published author, and happiness coach who helps courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Through her powerful and unique guidance, clients learn to master their narratives, break old patterns, and turn their weaknesses into superpowers. They learn to embody absolute clarity, unshakeable confidence, and ultimate conviction. Dr. J received her graduate degrees from Columbia University and the University of Connecticut. She is also certified in Positive Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Hypnosis. Dr. J’s thought leadership has been featured in Yahoo!Life, Thrive Global, Bustle, Goalcast, and more. Dr. J loves hiking with her pups, dabbling on the piano, reading tarot for growth and healing, and making annual trips to her beloved land of Hawai’i. If you catch her in the kitchen cooking, run the other way! Her book, The Bodhi Blueprint, Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose, was published in June 2022 and has received five star reviews. Find out more about Dr. J at www.bodhifully.com. Connect with Jisun Fisher Website  Instagram  The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose Free Chapter of The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often talk about the power of mindset. Limiting beliefs are tied to almost every issue you can have in your business, and in all of my years of coaching and helping other business owners, I can say that almost every single time, the key came down to mindset. Today, I’m joined by psychologist and happiness coach Jisun Sunny Fisher. She works at the intersection of spirituality and science, helping courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Jisun is sharing with us why the brain is the blueprint for success and what you can do to harness it. 

Pick It Apart

[3:48] Jisun shares why the brain is the blueprint for success (and why “success” might not mean what you think it does)

[10:01] Jisun breaks down the brain science behind limiting beliefs and how your mind works

[15:00] LuAnn shares her own insight into the power of visualization

[30:50] Jisun reveals 3 questions to ask yourself to begin to unlock your blueprint to success

[43:03] Jisun discusses how to take your answers to those questions and start to rewire your brain

LuAnn Nigara and Jisun Fisher's Ah-Ha Moments

“If we take the time to do the reflection, that we might have defined success by what our mothers, our fathers, our friends, our husbands, our wives, our peers have called it—that seems very logical to me that we could all fall prey to doing that. But what I think I heard you in there is that it sounds like then additionally, our brain at a subconscious level, has two things happening. It has our true desire unconscious there, but also has built on those other people's desires for us.” -LuAnn

“Underneath the beta frequency is the alpha frequency. This is when you're relaxed, and you want to read a story you have have a cup of tea in front of you, and you're just in the state of relaxation. That's the Alpha frequency. The frequency underneath that is the theta. And the theta frequency is where all the magic happens.” -Jisun

More About Jisun Sunny Fisher

Jisun Sunny Fisher, PhD, MA, CHt, CAPP, is a licensed psychologist, published author, and happiness coach who helps courageous leaders remember their true north and re-discover what makes them fall in love with life again. Through her powerful and unique guidance, clients learn to master their narratives, break old patterns, and turn their weaknesses into superpowers. They learn to embody absolute clarity, unshakeable confidence, and ultimate conviction.

Dr. J received her graduate degrees from Columbia University and the University of Connecticut. She is also certified in Positive Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Hypnosis. Dr. J’s thought leadership has been featured in Yahoo!Life, Thrive Global, Bustle, Goalcast, and more.

Dr. J loves hiking with her pups, dabbling on the piano, reading tarot for growth and healing, and making annual trips to her beloved land of Hawai’i. If you catch her in the kitchen cooking, run the other way!

Her book, The Bodhi Blueprint, Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose, was published in June 2022 and has received five star reviews.

Find out more about Dr. J at www.bodhifully.com.

Connect with Jisun Fisher

Website 

Instagram 

The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose

Free Chapter of The Bodhi Blueprint: Ultimate Freedom! Master Your Fears and Live Life on Purpose

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist

 

]]> 3810 no 876: Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/876-natasa-jones-making-bold-moves-to-achieve-big-results Today With Natasa Jones: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by my good friend, Natasa Jones. She is the CEO and Principal Designer of Natasa Jones Interiors. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. Today she’s back on the show to tell us how she has been scaling her business the last few years. LuAnn Nigara and Natasa Jones' Ah-Ha Moments “I’m never afraid to ask, what’s the worst thing that can happen?” - Natasa Jones “There is no such thing as competition in this industry” - Natasa Jones “If I wanted that luxury client, I wanted to be able to provide them with a luxury experience” - Natasa Jones More About Natasa Jones Natasa Jones, CEO and Principal Designer of NJI was born and raised in Europe. Natasa’s intuitive sense of style started at a young age. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. She studied studio arts in her home country of Montenegro where she learned principles of art and design. Natasa continued her design journey in Chicago, where she obtained a degree in Interior Design.  Home has a special meaning to Natasa. As she moved from Bosnia to Montenegro to the United States, home became more than the place where you live. Natasa believes that home is a space where you feel safe, where all the visual appeal tells a story and where you love to be! Connect with Natasa Jones Website Instagram  Natasa’s video What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #310: Pulp Design Studios® : How To Attract a Licensing Deal  #89: Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm #329: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner  Other Resources Mentioned: Casey Gromer - C Suite Boutique Brodie Kerst Tue, 09 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results full 876 LuAnn Nigara Today With Natasa Jones: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by my good friend, Natasa Jones. She is the CEO and Principal Designer of Natasa Jones Interiors. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. Today... Today With Natasa Jones: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by my good friend, Natasa Jones. She is the CEO and Principal Designer of Natasa Jones Interiors. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. Today she’s back on the show to tell us how she has been scaling her business the last few years. LuAnn Nigara and Natasa Jones' Ah-Ha Moments “I’m never afraid to ask, what’s the worst thing that can happen?” - Natasa Jones “There is no such thing as competition in this industry” - Natasa Jones “If I wanted that luxury client, I wanted to be able to provide them with a luxury experience” - Natasa Jones More About Natasa Jones Natasa Jones, CEO and Principal Designer of NJI was born and raised in Europe. Natasa’s intuitive sense of style started at a young age. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. She studied studio arts in her home country of Montenegro where she learned principles of art and design. Natasa continued her design journey in Chicago, where she obtained a degree in Interior Design.  Home has a special meaning to Natasa. As she moved from Bosnia to Montenegro to the United States, home became more than the place where you live. Natasa believes that home is a space where you feel safe, where all the visual appeal tells a story and where you love to be! Connect with Natasa Jones Website Instagram  Natasa’s video What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors: Nancy Ganzekaufer Traci Connell Duke Renders Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #310: Pulp Design Studios® : How To Attract a Licensing Deal  #89: Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm #329: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner  Other Resources Mentioned: Casey Gromer - C Suite Boutique Brodie Kerst Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by my good friend, Natasa Jones. She is the CEO and Principal Designer of Natasa Jones Interiors. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. Today she’s back on the show to tell us how she has been scaling her business the last few years.

LuAnn Nigara and Natasa Jones' Ah-Ha Moments

“I’m never afraid to ask, what’s the worst thing that can happen?” - Natasa Jones

“There is no such thing as competition in this industry” - Natasa Jones

“If I wanted that luxury client, I wanted to be able to provide them with a luxury experience” - Natasa Jones

More About Natasa Jones

Natasa Jones, CEO and Principal Designer of NJI was born and raised in Europe. Natasa’s intuitive sense of style started at a young age. European architecture and fashion are rooted in her design style. She studied studio arts in her home country of Montenegro where she learned principles of art and design. Natasa continued her design journey in Chicago, where she obtained a degree in Interior Design. 

Home has a special meaning to Natasa. As she moved from Bosnia to Montenegro to the United States, home became more than the place where you live. Natasa believes that home is a space where you feel safe, where all the visual appeal tells a story and where you love to be!

Connect with Natasa Jones

Website

Instagram 

Natasa’s video

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

A Big Thank You to Our Keynote Sponsors:

Nancy Ganzekaufer

Traci Connell

Duke Renders

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

#310: Pulp Design Studios® : How To Attract a Licensing Deal 

#89: Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm

#329: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner 

Other Resources Mentioned:

Casey Gromer - C Suite Boutique

Brodie Kerst

]]> 4206 no 875: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: The Straight Talk About Unstable Fabrics http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/875-window-treatment-friday-vita-vygovska-the-straight-talk-about-unstable-fabrics Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Window Treatment Friday, which means I am joined by Vita Vygovska. Vita is the founder of Vitalia Inc. and a regular here on the podcasts. She is an expert in all things window treatments, and today Vita will share her knowledge of unstable fabrics to help us better understand the qualities of these linens, wools, open weaves, and anything viscose.  Window treatment professionals can’t guarantee the results when working with these fabrics, so neither should you as the designer. But don’t worry, Vita is here to eloquently help us navigate these temperamental textiles and give us the knowledge we need for better success. Pick It Apart [7:22] Vita and LuAnn discuss the battle of getting drapes to skim, or “kiss” the floor. [17:53] Vita offers language to say no, without actually saying “no.” [24:24] LuAnn talks about the importance of listening to the advice of your window treatment professional and passing the information along honestly to your clients.  [28:59] Vita advises interior designers on alternative fabrics to use in place of unstable ones.  [40:10] Vita suggests not only discussing the fabrics, but documenting the conversation and putting a disclaimer on projects with unstable fabrics because you can’t guarantee the outcome. LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska's Ah-Ha Moments “We want to be good partners. We want to be there as your problem solvers, and as someone who brings value. But we also want to tell the truth, and we don't want to set anybody up for failure.” – Vita Vygovska “These unstable fabrics‑being unstable because they're unpredictable‑whereas we don't exactly know as a workroomhow they are going to behave when we fabricate them… And so because these fabrics are so unpredictable, it is really difficult to guarantee any kind of specific result.” – Vita Vygovska “Understand that once your window treatment professional confirms, or just tells you, for the first time that this probably isn't going to perform the way you and your client have the expectation to, then think of it as clear cut as the sofa blocking the walkway.” – LuAnn Nigara “I'm going to tell you the truth over getting an order because I don't want just the order. I want the order and I want the project to be successful.” – LuAnn Nigara “Tough conversations are always better had on the on the forefront‑up front‑before they become tough situations.” – Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter AWDB #448: Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara AWDB #456: Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments AWDB #462: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 AWDB #471: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 AWDB #748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup AWDB #761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly AWDB #775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? AWDB #815: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: Mindset of Pricing Window Treatments Other Resources Mentioned: Vita’s Focus on Fabrics CEU Fri, 05 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: The Straight Talk About Unstable Fabrics full 875 LuAnn Nigara Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Window Treatment Friday, which means I am joined by Vita Vygovska. Vita is the founder of Vitalia Inc. and a regular here on the podcasts. She is an expert in all things window... Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Window Treatment Friday, which means I am joined by Vita Vygovska. Vita is the founder of Vitalia Inc. and a regular here on the podcasts. She is an expert in all things window treatments, and today Vita will share her knowledge of unstable fabrics to help us better understand the qualities of these linens, wools, open weaves, and anything viscose.  Window treatment professionals can’t guarantee the results when working with these fabrics, so neither should you as the designer. But don’t worry, Vita is here to eloquently help us navigate these temperamental textiles and give us the knowledge we need for better success. Pick It Apart [7:22] Vita and LuAnn discuss the battle of getting drapes to skim, or “kiss” the floor. [17:53] Vita offers language to say no, without actually saying “no.” [24:24] LuAnn talks about the importance of listening to the advice of your window treatment professional and passing the information along honestly to your clients.  [28:59] Vita advises interior designers on alternative fabrics to use in place of unstable ones.  [40:10] Vita suggests not only discussing the fabrics, but documenting the conversation and putting a disclaimer on projects with unstable fabrics because you can’t guarantee the outcome. LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska's Ah-Ha Moments “We want to be good partners. We want to be there as your problem solvers, and as someone who brings value. But we also want to tell the truth, and we don't want to set anybody up for failure.” – Vita Vygovska “These unstable fabrics‑being unstable because they're unpredictable‑whereas we don't exactly know as a workroomhow they are going to behave when we fabricate them… And so because these fabrics are so unpredictable, it is really difficult to guarantee any kind of specific result.” – Vita Vygovska “Understand that once your window treatment professional confirms, or just tells you, for the first time that this probably isn't going to perform the way you and your client have the expectation to, then think of it as clear cut as the sofa blocking the walkway.” – LuAnn Nigara “I'm going to tell you the truth over getting an order because I don't want just the order. I want the order and I want the project to be successful.” – LuAnn Nigara “Tough conversations are always better had on the on the forefront‑up front‑before they become tough situations.” – Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter AWDB #448: Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara AWDB #456: Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments AWDB #462: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 AWDB #471: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 AWDB #748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup AWDB #761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly AWDB #775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? AWDB #815: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: Mindset of Pricing Window Treatments Other Resources Mentioned: Vita’s Focus on Fabrics CEU Today With Vita Vygovska:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Window Treatment Friday, which means I am joined by Vita Vygovska. Vita is the founder of Vitalia Inc. and a regular here on the podcasts. She is an expert in all things window treatments, and today Vita will share her knowledge of unstable fabrics to help us better understand the qualities of these linens, wools, open weaves, and anything viscose. 

Window treatment professionals can’t guarantee the results when working with these fabrics, so neither should you as the designer. But don’t worry, Vita is here to eloquently help us navigate these temperamental textiles and give us the knowledge we need for better success.

Pick It Apart

[7:22] Vita and LuAnn discuss the battle of getting drapes to skim, or “kiss” the floor.

[17:53] Vita offers language to say no, without actually saying “no.”

[24:24] LuAnn talks about the importance of listening to the advice of your window treatment professional and passing the information along honestly to your clients. 

[28:59] Vita advises interior designers on alternative fabrics to use in place of unstable ones. 

[40:10] Vita suggests not only discussing the fabrics, but documenting the conversation and putting a disclaimer on projects with unstable fabrics because you can’t guarantee the outcome.

LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska's Ah-Ha Moments

“We want to be good partners. We want to be there as your problem solvers, and as someone who brings value. But we also want to tell the truth, and we don't want to set anybody up for failure.” – Vita Vygovska

“These unstable fabrics‑being unstable because they're unpredictable‑whereas we don't exactly know as a workroomhow they are going to behave when we fabricate them… And so because these fabrics are so unpredictable, it is really difficult to guarantee any kind of specific result.” – Vita Vygovska

“Understand that once your window treatment professional confirms, or just tells you, for the first time that this probably isn't going to perform the way you and your client have the expectation to, then think of it as clear cut as the sofa blocking the walkway.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I'm going to tell you the truth over getting an order because I don't want just the order. I want the order and I want the project to be successful.” – LuAnn Nigara

“Tough conversations are always better had on the on the forefront‑up front‑before they become tough situations.” – Vita Vygovska

More About Vita Vygovska:

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations.

Connect with Vita Vygovska

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

WTFP #134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter

AWDB #448: Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara

AWDB #456: Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments

AWDB #462: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1

AWDB #471: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2

AWDB #748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup

AWDB #761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly

AWDB #775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments?

AWDB #815: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: Mindset of Pricing Window Treatments

Other Resources Mentioned:

Vita’s Focus on Fabrics CEU

]]> 3542 no 874: Zane and Emily Williams: Leading Clients Through the Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/874-zane-and-emily-williams-leading-clients-through-the-design Today With Zane and Emily Williams: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by a power couple, Zane and Emily Williams from Z Properties. They have established a reputation for evocative design and quality construction, materials, and furnishings. Zane and Emily have worked with every type of client and strongly know how to best navigate relationships for creative freedom on their end and a happy customer on the other, and today they share with us how they do it!  LuAnn Nigara and Zane and Emily Williams' Ah-Ha Moments “Never back away from what you love and what you feel good about.” - Emily Williams. “If they’re a good client they are coming to you because they trust you and they want your confidence and input.” - Emily Williams More About Zane and Emily Williams: About Zane Williams - Driven by a belief that the home should be a place that stirs something within you, Zane fuses intuitive project management with a daring design approach, allowing him to conceptualize properties that are executed perfectly and bring a sense of awe to each homeowner and business owner, alike. Zane’s incredibly honest and cutting-edge approach to design-build, paired with his expertise in all aspects of the selection and execution of the perfect property, draws clients from across the Central Florida region.  About Emily Williams - Emily, with a sharp eye for all things luxury design and a captivating presence, combines a confident use of playful palettes and patterns to create unique spaces that beg to be enjoyed. Emily’s ability to carefully curate an interior that’s surprising and inspired has established Z’s interior design offerings as some of the most sought-after in the Sunshine State and beyond.  Emily also extends her passion for living beautifully through her other Winter Parkbased businesses: The Grove (apparel, home goods, and gifts), Be On Park (fine jewelry), and Clementine (wedding registry, tableware and home accessories). Connect with Zane and Emily Williams Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #380: Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini Tue, 02 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000 874: Zane and Emily Williams: Leading Clients Through the Design full 874 LuAnn Nigara Today With Zane and Emily Williams: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by a power couple, Zane and Emily Williams from Z Properties. They have established a reputation for evocative design and quality construction, materials,... Today With Zane and Emily Williams: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by a power couple, Zane and Emily Williams from Z Properties. They have established a reputation for evocative design and quality construction, materials, and furnishings. Zane and Emily have worked with every type of client and strongly know how to best navigate relationships for creative freedom on their end and a happy customer on the other, and today they share with us how they do it!  LuAnn Nigara and Zane and Emily Williams' Ah-Ha Moments “Never back away from what you love and what you feel good about.” - Emily Williams. “If they’re a good client they are coming to you because they trust you and they want your confidence and input.” - Emily Williams More About Zane and Emily Williams: About Zane Williams - Driven by a belief that the home should be a place that stirs something within you, Zane fuses intuitive project management with a daring design approach, allowing him to conceptualize properties that are executed perfectly and bring a sense of awe to each homeowner and business owner, alike. Zane’s incredibly honest and cutting-edge approach to design-build, paired with his expertise in all aspects of the selection and execution of the perfect property, draws clients from across the Central Florida region.  About Emily Williams - Emily, with a sharp eye for all things luxury design and a captivating presence, combines a confident use of playful palettes and patterns to create unique spaces that beg to be enjoyed. Emily’s ability to carefully curate an interior that’s surprising and inspired has established Z’s interior design offerings as some of the most sought-after in the Sunshine State and beyond.  Emily also extends her passion for living beautifully through her other Winter Parkbased businesses: The Grove (apparel, home goods, and gifts), Be On Park (fine jewelry), and Clementine (wedding registry, tableware and home accessories). Connect with Zane and Emily Williams Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #380: Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini Today With Zane and Emily Williams:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by a power couple, Zane and Emily Williams from Z Properties. They have established a reputation for evocative design and quality construction, materials, and furnishings. Zane and Emily have worked with every type of client and strongly know how to best navigate relationships for creative freedom on their end and a happy customer on the other, and today they share with us how they do it! 

LuAnn Nigara and Zane and Emily Williams' Ah-Ha Moments

“Never back away from what you love and what you feel good about.” - Emily Williams.

“If they’re a good client they are coming to you because they trust you and they want your confidence and input.” - Emily Williams

More About Zane and Emily Williams:

About Zane Williams -

Driven by a belief that the home should be a place that stirs something within you, Zane fuses intuitive project management with a daring design approach, allowing him to conceptualize properties that are executed perfectly and bring a sense of awe to each homeowner and business owner, alike. Zane’s incredibly honest and cutting-edge approach to design-build, paired with his expertise in all aspects of the selection and execution of the perfect property, draws clients from across the Central Florida region. 

About Emily Williams -

Emily, with a sharp eye for all things luxury design and a captivating presence, combines a confident use of playful palettes and patterns to create unique spaces that beg to be enjoyed. Emily’s ability to carefully curate an interior that’s surprising and inspired has established Z’s interior design offerings as some of the most sought-after in the Sunshine State and beyond. 

Emily also extends her passion for living beautifully through her other Winter Parkbased businesses: The Grove (apparel, home goods, and gifts), Be On Park (fine jewelry), and Clementine (wedding registry, tableware and home accessories).

Connect with Zane and Emily Williams

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

Watch the Docuseries!

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#380: Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini

]]> 3491 no 873: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/873-power-talk-friday-peter-lang-design-a-better-bottom-line-with-the-designer-cpa Today With Peter Lang: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Peter Lang of The Designer CPA, the only CPA firm in the country specializing in the business of Interior Design. Peter is a repeat guest on the show and the co-author of A Well Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts.  Peter has spent the last several years compiling all of his numbers and all of his knowledge into a beautiful industry-standard report. If you’ve ever wondered what profits look like for an interior design business your size, or how much the average owner pays themselves annually, or what standard monthly overhead costs add up to, then this is for you. This guidebook has every benchmark number along with thorough video explanations to help you make better decisions and have more success in your interior design business. Pick It Apart [5:13] Peter explains the differences when choosing between cash basis and an accrual basis on your tax forms. [13:54] Peter and LuAnn discuss how different software targets different methods and offers different features, mentioning Pete’s online assessment that can help designers decide what project management software might work best in their business. [18:11] Peter helps LuAnn understand what interior designers need to look for in a good bookkeeper. [26:00] Pete and LuAnn dig into Peter’s new online course, an interior design guidebook full of industry standards based on Peter’s accounting data. [31:46] Peter breaks down what is in the payroll section of his new report and how business owners can use this data. [42:49] Peter explains how designers and business owners can use these numbers to their advantage. LuAnn Nigara and Peter Lang's Ah-Ha Moments “When your profitability is monitored, then your own paycheck can go up.” – LuAnn Nigara  “The numbers and the data don't lie.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want you to use this information to make better decisions for your business, so that bottom line number—that profitability number, the amount that you want to pay yourself—it's easier to succeed in those goals that you have.” – Peter Lang More About Peter Lang: Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger-size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers. Connect with Peter Lang Website Instagram Facebook Industry Standard Data 2019 to 2022 Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #522: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show was sponsored by The Designer CPA. Fri, 28 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA full 873 LuAnn Nigara Today With Peter Lang: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Peter Lang of The Designer CPA, the only CPA firm in the country specializing in the business of Interior Design. Peter is a repeat guest on the show and the co-author of A Well... Today With Peter Lang: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Peter Lang of The Designer CPA, the only CPA firm in the country specializing in the business of Interior Design. Peter is a repeat guest on the show and the co-author of A Well Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts.  Peter has spent the last several years compiling all of his numbers and all of his knowledge into a beautiful industry-standard report. If you’ve ever wondered what profits look like for an interior design business your size, or how much the average owner pays themselves annually, or what standard monthly overhead costs add up to, then this is for you. This guidebook has every benchmark number along with thorough video explanations to help you make better decisions and have more success in your interior design business. Pick It Apart [5:13] Peter explains the differences when choosing between cash basis and an accrual basis on your tax forms. [13:54] Peter and LuAnn discuss how different software targets different methods and offers different features, mentioning Pete’s online assessment that can help designers decide what project management software might work best in their business. [18:11] Peter helps LuAnn understand what interior designers need to look for in a good bookkeeper. [26:00] Pete and LuAnn dig into Peter’s new online course, an interior design guidebook full of industry standards based on Peter’s accounting data. [31:46] Peter breaks down what is in the payroll section of his new report and how business owners can use this data. [42:49] Peter explains how designers and business owners can use these numbers to their advantage. LuAnn Nigara and Peter Lang's Ah-Ha Moments “When your profitability is monitored, then your own paycheck can go up.” – LuAnn Nigara  “The numbers and the data don't lie.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want you to use this information to make better decisions for your business, so that bottom line number—that profitability number, the amount that you want to pay yourself—it's easier to succeed in those goals that you have.” – Peter Lang More About Peter Lang: Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger-size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers. Connect with Peter Lang Website Instagram Facebook Industry Standard Data 2019 to 2022 Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? AWDB #522: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show was sponsored by The Designer CPA. Today With Peter Lang:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Peter Lang of The Designer CPA, the only CPA firm in the country specializing in the business of Interior Design. Peter is a repeat guest on the show and the co-author of A Well Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts. 

Peter has spent the last several years compiling all of his numbers and all of his knowledge into a beautiful industry-standard report. If you’ve ever wondered what profits look like for an interior design business your size, or how much the average owner pays themselves annually, or what standard monthly overhead costs add up to, then this is for you. This guidebook has every benchmark number along with thorough video explanations to help you make better decisions and have more success in your interior design business.

Pick It Apart

[5:13] Peter explains the differences when choosing between cash basis and an accrual basis on your tax forms.

[13:54] Peter and LuAnn discuss how different software targets different methods and offers different features, mentioning Pete’s online assessment that can help designers decide what project management software might work best in their business.

[18:11] Peter helps LuAnn understand what interior designers need to look for in a good bookkeeper.

[26:00] Pete and LuAnn dig into Peter’s new online course, an interior design guidebook full of industry standards based on Peter’s accounting data.

[31:46] Peter breaks down what is in the payroll section of his new report and how business owners can use this data.

[42:49] Peter explains how designers and business owners can use these numbers to their advantage.

LuAnn Nigara and Peter Lang's Ah-Ha Moments

“When your profitability is monitored, then your own paycheck can go up.” – LuAnn Nigara 

“The numbers and the data don't lie.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I want you to use this information to make better decisions for your business, so that bottom line number—that profitability number, the amount that you want to pay yourself—it's easier to succeed in those goals that you have.” – Peter Lang

More About Peter Lang:

Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger-size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.

Connect with Peter Lang

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Industry Standard Data 2019 to 2022

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

AWDB #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

AWDB #522: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained

AWDB #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's show was sponsored by The Designer CPA.

]]> 3720 no 872: Throwback Tuesday: Amber Lewis: The Business Side of Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/872-throwback-tuesday-amber-lewis-the-business-side-of-your-interior-design-firm Today With Amber Lewis: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, today we’re doing something a little bit different: Throwback Tuesday. With over 900+ episodes in our back catalog, it’s hard to keep up with all the great designers that have shared their knowledge with all of us, that’s why we’re bringing back Amber Lewis’ 2017 episode. Amber and I talked about what it was that catapulted her to a level above her own in the beginning, the importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm, parenting and running a business and so much more! Let’s dive right into it. More About Amber Lewis: As principal at Amber Interior Design and founder of the blog, All Sorts Of, she has garnered clients and followers from around the world. As pioneer of the white-wall, laid back California aesthetic, Amber’s eclectic design approach and affinity for found objects has made her a household name. Amber imbues a bit of California eclectic in all of her projects, but craves a design challenge and opportunities to show off her ever-evolving style. No matter what the style she is asked to create, each space designed by Amber feels cozy, eclectic, and unique. Today Amber Interior Design, Inc. provides designs for large scale residences. Amber and her team work with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, on her blog and in her retail Shoppe, to life. Light filled rooms, colorful textiles, natural elements, earthy textures, and brushed metals, are the elements that define and can always distinguish an Amber Interiors designed home. Amber currently lives in Calabasas with her husband and business partner Mike, their daughter Gwyneth, and fur babies Penny, Billie, Stella, Milo, and Georgie (all rescue animals). Connect with Amber Lewis Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management Other Resources Mentioned: Studio Webware Tue, 25 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Throwback Tuesday: Amber Lewis: The Business Side of Your Interior Design Firm full 872 LuAnn Nigara Today With Amber Lewis: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, today we’re doing something a little bit different: Throwback Tuesday. With over 900+ episodes in our back catalog, it’s hard to keep up with all the great designers that have shared... Today With Amber Lewis: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, today we’re doing something a little bit different: Throwback Tuesday. With over 900+ episodes in our back catalog, it’s hard to keep up with all the great designers that have shared their knowledge with all of us, that’s why we’re bringing back Amber Lewis’ 2017 episode. Amber and I talked about what it was that catapulted her to a level above her own in the beginning, the importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm, parenting and running a business and so much more! Let’s dive right into it. More About Amber Lewis: As principal at Amber Interior Design and founder of the blog, All Sorts Of, she has garnered clients and followers from around the world. As pioneer of the white-wall, laid back California aesthetic, Amber’s eclectic design approach and affinity for found objects has made her a household name. Amber imbues a bit of California eclectic in all of her projects, but craves a design challenge and opportunities to show off her ever-evolving style. No matter what the style she is asked to create, each space designed by Amber feels cozy, eclectic, and unique. Today Amber Interior Design, Inc. provides designs for large scale residences. Amber and her team work with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, on her blog and in her retail Shoppe, to life. Light filled rooms, colorful textiles, natural elements, earthy textures, and brushed metals, are the elements that define and can always distinguish an Amber Interiors designed home. Amber currently lives in Calabasas with her husband and business partner Mike, their daughter Gwyneth, and fur babies Penny, Billie, Stella, Milo, and Georgie (all rescue animals). Connect with Amber Lewis Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management Other Resources Mentioned: Studio Webware Today With Amber Lewis:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, today we’re doing something a little bit different: Throwback Tuesday. With over 900+ episodes in our back catalog, it’s hard to keep up with all the great designers that have shared their knowledge with all of us, that’s why we’re bringing back Amber Lewis’ 2017 episode. Amber and I talked about what it was that catapulted her to a level above her own in the beginning, the importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm, parenting and running a business and so much more! Let’s dive right into it.

More About Amber Lewis:

As principal at Amber Interior Design and founder of the blog, All Sorts Of, she has garnered clients and followers from around the world. As pioneer of the white-wall, laid back California aesthetic, Amber’s eclectic design approach and affinity for found objects has made her a household name.

Amber imbues a bit of California eclectic in all of her projects, but craves a design challenge and opportunities to show off her ever-evolving style. No matter what the style she is asked to create, each space designed by Amber feels cozy, eclectic, and unique.

Today Amber Interior Design, Inc. provides designs for large scale residences. Amber and her team work with architects and contractors to bring the distinct visions seen in her work, on her blog and in her retail Shoppe, to life. Light filled rooms, colorful textiles, natural elements, earthy textures, and brushed metals, are the elements that define and can always distinguish an Amber Interiors designed home.

Amber currently lives in Calabasas with her husband and business partner Mike, their daughter Gwyneth, and fur babies Penny, Billie, Stella, Milo, and Georgie (all rescue animals).

Connect with Amber Lewis

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design

#36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management

Other Resources Mentioned:

Studio Webware

]]> 5219 no 871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/871-power-talk-friday-desi-creswell-out-of-overwhelm-why-time-management-begins-with-your-mindset Today With Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Desi Creswell, a friend of the show, Power Talk Friday expert, and creator of Out of Overwhelm—a six-month, intimate group experience for interior designers that will take you from overwhelmed & stressed to in control and profitable. What really impresses me about Desi isn’t just her ability to teach people time management skills. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, the skills, tools, techniques, and practices are only half of the puzzle. Desi’s real ability lies in the other half—the mindset hurdles that are blocking us from transforming our relationship with time. Pick It Apart [2:13] Desi shares why time management is much more than the perfect color-coded calendar or time-blocking system.  [7:45] LuAnn and Desi discuss the concept of a relationship with time and how to change it.  [13:30] LuAnn and Desi talk about why the lack of time isn’t the real issue—the problem is often so much deeper.  [30:27] Desi shares her 5-step process for time management.  [56:44] Desi highlights how Out of Overwhelm works to help designers with time management struggles. LuAnn Nigara and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments “We want to take an outward easy step to time management. And it’s a good step—time-blocking is something we want to do in a lot of ways. But it’s just the tip of the iceberg, and if it doesn’t go with all of the other things that you teach and coach on—like the relationship with time—it doesn’t change things.” - LuAnn “I ask people to describe their relationship with time. For a lot of my clients, the relationship is adversarial, it’s forced, disciplined in a nonsupportive way. That used to be my experience before I came across the mindset tools I teach now. When we are in that unhealthy dynamic with time, of course we don’t want to engage with the strategies that are going to support us in effectively managing our time.” - Desi More About Desi Creswell: Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally build profitable, fulfilling businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole.  An award-winning interior designer, Desi worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice. After experiencing burnout from an endless to-do list and the competing interests of work and home, she was disheartened by the feeling that she wasn’t showing up as her best in any area of life. Desi sought to find solutions within the industry for time-management, work-life balance, and creating success that is truly self-defined. In her quest to find a better way, Desi became committed to personal development and growth. This led Desi to blend mindset with strategy to transform her own experience and thus realize that there was a need for this type of support within the design community. Her training as a life coach, paired with her industry-specific expertise, helps her to empower clients to thrive both personally and professionally.  Connect with Desi Creswell Website Instagram Interior Designers Get it Done Daily Planner  Life & Business Vision Journal Podcast: The Interior Design Business CEO Freedom in the Framework Workshop Other Shows Mentioned: #777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self #698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time Fri, 21 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset full 871 LuAnn Nigara Today With Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Desi Creswell, a friend of the show, Power Talk Friday expert, and creator of Out of Overwhelm—a six-month, intimate group experience... Today With Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Desi Creswell, a friend of the show, Power Talk Friday expert, and creator of Out of Overwhelm—a six-month, intimate group experience for interior designers that will take you from overwhelmed & stressed to in control and profitable. What really impresses me about Desi isn’t just her ability to teach people time management skills. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, the skills, tools, techniques, and practices are only half of the puzzle. Desi’s real ability lies in the other half—the mindset hurdles that are blocking us from transforming our relationship with time. Pick It Apart [2:13] Desi shares why time management is much more than the perfect color-coded calendar or time-blocking system.  [7:45] LuAnn and Desi discuss the concept of a relationship with time and how to change it.  [13:30] LuAnn and Desi talk about why the lack of time isn’t the real issue—the problem is often so much deeper.  [30:27] Desi shares her 5-step process for time management.  [56:44] Desi highlights how Out of Overwhelm works to help designers with time management struggles. LuAnn Nigara and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments “We want to take an outward easy step to time management. And it’s a good step—time-blocking is something we want to do in a lot of ways. But it’s just the tip of the iceberg, and if it doesn’t go with all of the other things that you teach and coach on—like the relationship with time—it doesn’t change things.” - LuAnn “I ask people to describe their relationship with time. For a lot of my clients, the relationship is adversarial, it’s forced, disciplined in a nonsupportive way. That used to be my experience before I came across the mindset tools I teach now. When we are in that unhealthy dynamic with time, of course we don’t want to engage with the strategies that are going to support us in effectively managing our time.” - Desi More About Desi Creswell: Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally build profitable, fulfilling businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole.  An award-winning interior designer, Desi worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice. After experiencing burnout from an endless to-do list and the competing interests of work and home, she was disheartened by the feeling that she wasn’t showing up as her best in any area of life. Desi sought to find solutions within the industry for time-management, work-life balance, and creating success that is truly self-defined. In her quest to find a better way, Desi became committed to personal development and growth. This led Desi to blend mindset with strategy to transform her own experience and thus realize that there was a need for this type of support within the design community. Her training as a life coach, paired with her industry-specific expertise, helps her to empower clients to thrive both personally and professionally.  Connect with Desi Creswell Website Instagram Interior Designers Get it Done Daily Planner  Life & Business Vision Journal Podcast: The Interior Design Business CEO Freedom in the Framework Workshop Other Shows Mentioned: #777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self #698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time Today With Desi Creswell:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Desi Creswell, a friend of the show, Power Talk Friday expert, and creator of Out of Overwhelm—a six-month, intimate group experience for interior designers that will take you from overwhelmed & stressed to in control and profitable.

What really impresses me about Desi isn’t just her ability to teach people time management skills. As you’ll hear in today’s episode, the skills, tools, techniques, and practices are only half of the puzzle. Desi’s real ability lies in the other half—the mindset hurdles that are blocking us from transforming our relationship with time.

Pick It Apart

[2:13] Desi shares why time management is much more than the perfect color-coded calendar or time-blocking system. 

[7:45] LuAnn and Desi discuss the concept of a relationship with time and how to change it. 

[13:30] LuAnn and Desi talk about why the lack of time isn’t the real issue—the problem is often so much deeper. 

[30:27] Desi shares her 5-step process for time management. 

[56:44] Desi highlights how Out of Overwhelm works to help designers with time management struggles.

LuAnn Nigara and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments

“We want to take an outward easy step to time management. And it’s a good step—time-blocking is something we want to do in a lot of ways. But it’s just the tip of the iceberg, and if it doesn’t go with all of the other things that you teach and coach on—like the relationship with time—it doesn’t change things.” - LuAnn

“I ask people to describe their relationship with time. For a lot of my clients, the relationship is adversarial, it’s forced, disciplined in a nonsupportive way. That used to be my experience before I came across the mindset tools I teach now. When we are in that unhealthy dynamic with time, of course we don’t want to engage with the strategies that are going to support us in effectively managing our time.” - Desi

More About Desi Creswell:

Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally build profitable, fulfilling businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole. 

An award-winning interior designer, Desi worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice. After experiencing burnout from an endless to-do list and the competing interests of work and home, she was disheartened by the feeling that she wasn’t showing up as her best in any area of life. Desi sought to find solutions within the industry for time-management, work-life balance, and creating success that is truly self-defined.

In her quest to find a better way, Desi became committed to personal development and growth. This led Desi to blend mindset with strategy to transform her own experience and thus realize that there was a need for this type of support within the design community. Her training as a life coach, paired with her industry-specific expertise, helps her to empower clients to thrive both personally and professionally. 

Connect with Desi Creswell

Website

Instagram

Interior Designers Get it Done Daily Planner 

Life & Business Vision Journal

Podcast: The Interior Design Business CEO

Freedom in the Framework Workshop

Other Shows Mentioned:

#777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self

#698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm

#557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

#475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time

]]> 4663 no 870: Jillian Lare: Processes to Know Your Numbers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/870-jillian-lare-processes-to-know-your-numbers Today With Jillian Lare: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Jillian Lare, of Morris Lare. Jillian achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Today, she’ll tell us the different systems she uses to keep track of her numbers. More About Jillian Lare: Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling. Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo. Connect with Jillian Lare Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective 864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager 575: Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! Other Resources Mentioned: The Predictive Index: Talent Optimization Leader InDesign Canva Asana BaseCamp Studio Designer Mydoma Interior Design Standard by Sandra Funk Tobi Fairley Cheryl Clendenon Tue, 18 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jillian Lare: Processes to Know Your Numbers full 870 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jillian Lare: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Jillian Lare, of Morris Lare. Jillian achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with... Today With Jillian Lare: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Jillian Lare, of Morris Lare. Jillian achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Today, she’ll tell us the different systems she uses to keep track of her numbers. More About Jillian Lare: Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling. Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo. Connect with Jillian Lare Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective 864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager 575: Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! Other Resources Mentioned: The Predictive Index: Talent Optimization Leader InDesign Canva Asana BaseCamp Studio Designer Mydoma Interior Design Standard by Sandra Funk Tobi Fairley Cheryl Clendenon Today With Jillian Lare:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Jillian Lare, of Morris Lare. Jillian achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur. Today, she’ll tell us the different systems she uses to keep track of her numbers.

More About Jillian Lare:

Jillian Lare is a native of northeastern Pennsylvania. She achieved a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University and spent her early career with Intel Corporation. During her time as an engineer, she honed the invaluable skills of critical thinking, project management, leadership, and effective communication, which she applies every day as an interior designer and entrepreneur.

Jillian made the switch from engineering to design in 2007 when she apprenticed with a local designer. Upon relocating to Des Moines, she enrolled in the MA of Interior Design program at Iowa State and graduated in 2013. She joined the faculty shortly after and served as an instructor for five years, specializing in residential design and visual and graphic communication. While teaching, she continued to design for clients. After the birth of her son in 2017, she launched Jillian Lare Interior Design, her eponymous firm focused on residential new construction and remodeling.

Jillian enjoys working on a variety of residential projects including new construction, kitchen remodels, decorating, and furnishings throughout the Des Moines area and with clients coast to coast. She resides in West Des Moines with her husband Keegan, a registered landscape architect, their son Ashton, and two dogs Booker and Arlo.

Connect with Jillian Lare

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective 864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager 575: Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year!

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Predictive Index: Talent Optimization Leader

InDesign

Canva

Asana

BaseCamp

Studio Designer

Mydoma

Interior Design Standard by Sandra Funk

Tobi Fairley

Cheryl Clendenon

]]> 4752 no 869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders - How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/869-power-talk-friday Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I’m welcoming my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer back to the show. If you’re a long-time listener, you’ve probably heard of Nancy’s coaching program, Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind. In today’s episode, you’re going to hear why Profit Insiders is not your average coaching program, beginning with a testimonial of how it helped someone quintuple—yes, quintuple their revenue. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “Nothing irritates me more than seeing interior designers work so hard and not make enough money for whatever they want to use it for.” - Nancy “Whatever you want in your business, however, you want your business to look, my only goal is…do it the way you want, I’m going to help you make it profitable.” - Nancy “Not every business coach offers life coaching, but when you have that skill set and you do, it is valuable, because if your life is in disarray it’s hard to get the business locked down. If your life contains limiting beliefs and blocks and mindset blocks, to just think that you're going to stick that brain on a shelf and approach your business open-minded and ready for abundance and creativity is illogical.” - LuAnn More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence.  In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts.  Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York.  Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.    Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program Confident Interior Designer Membership Site The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool Interior Design Contract Templates Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business #60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula #584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Fri, 14 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders - How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right full 869 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I’m welcoming my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer back to the show. If you’re a long-time listener, you’ve probably heard of Nancy’s coaching program,... Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I’m welcoming my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer back to the show. If you’re a long-time listener, you’ve probably heard of Nancy’s coaching program, Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind. In today’s episode, you’re going to hear why Profit Insiders is not your average coaching program, beginning with a testimonial of how it helped someone quintuple—yes, quintuple their revenue. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “Nothing irritates me more than seeing interior designers work so hard and not make enough money for whatever they want to use it for.” - Nancy “Whatever you want in your business, however, you want your business to look, my only goal is…do it the way you want, I’m going to help you make it profitable.” - Nancy “Not every business coach offers life coaching, but when you have that skill set and you do, it is valuable, because if your life is in disarray it’s hard to get the business locked down. If your life contains limiting beliefs and blocks and mindset blocks, to just think that you're going to stick that brain on a shelf and approach your business open-minded and ready for abundance and creativity is illogical.” - LuAnn More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence.  In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts.  Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York.  Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.    Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program Confident Interior Designer Membership Site The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool Interior Design Contract Templates Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business #60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula #584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored episode, I’m welcoming my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer back to the show. If you’re a long-time listener, you’ve probably heard of Nancy’s coaching program, Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind. In today’s episode, you’re going to hear why Profit Insiders is not your average coaching program, beginning with a testimonial of how it helped someone quintuple—yes, quintuple their revenue.

LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments

“Nothing irritates me more than seeing interior designers work so hard and not make enough money for whatever they want to use it for.” - Nancy

“Whatever you want in your business, however, you want your business to look, my only goal is…do it the way you want, I’m going to help you make it profitable.” - Nancy

“Not every business coach offers life coaching, but when you have that skill set and you do, it is valuable, because if your life is in disarray it’s hard to get the business locked down. If your life contains limiting beliefs and blocks and mindset blocks, to just think that you're going to stick that brain on a shelf and approach your business open-minded and ready for abundance and creativity is illogical.” - LuAnn

More About Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. 

In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts. 

Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York. 

Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.   

Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer

Website

Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program

Confident Interior Designer Membership Site

The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool

Interior Design Contract Templates

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

YouTube

Other Shows Mentioned:

#15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich

#37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business

#60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself)

#159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

#389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula

#584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

#766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

#783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers

#841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers.

]]> 3398 no 868: Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/868-jill-cole-sustaining-a-prosperous-hospitality-design-firm-in-an-ever-changing-world Today With Jill Cole: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Jill Cole, an icon of the hospitality interior design industry. At Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates, Jill has made a name for herself, designing fabulous hotel and resort interiors worldwide for over 40 years. She joins us to discuss how she has sustained this impactful and extensive career in an ever-changing world. This is a great conversation with one of the best in the business that touches on a little bit of everything, from finding inspiration to embracing tech and staying true to your core values. Pick It Apart [11:13] Jill talks her first hotel design, the Adolphis Hotel in Dallas, and how that motivated transitioning her firm from office and retail design into hospitality design [18:17] Jill and LuAnn discuss designing high-end senior living, how it mimics luxury resorts and was another opportunity for Jill’s firm to consider when other interior design projects were slowing due to the financial collapse of 2009. [23:58] LuAnn and Jill discuss embracing tech as an interior designer. [30:30] LuAnn asks Jill how she understands design trends to inform and expand aesthetics. [37:20] Jill talks about defining your personal and company values and staying true to them in the industry. [44:16] Jill talks about hospitality interior design appealing to a broad market and the importance of knowing who you are serving as what your competitors are doing. LuAnn Nigara and Jill Cole's Ah-Ha Moments “We spend, realistically, a large percentage of our lives working. I want people to feel good about it. I want you to be enthusiastic. I want you to enjoy your co-workers. I want you to enjoy the experience of dealing with each other, and feel good about what you're doing.” – Jill Cole “You have to absorb all things visual, and filter through that and interpret it in your own way, and spit out the latest trends…If all you're doing for inspiration is looking at pictures of your competitors work, you're not doing your job.” – Jill Cole “When you do work and live in your values, then it builds that trust and reliability factor with the people that are orbiting you.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jill Cole: Jill is Managing Principal and President of Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates. Since the l98l re-opening of the Adolphus Hotel, Jill has devoted herself exclusively to hotel, resort, and recreational design. Her particular focus is on the creation of projects that are responsive to their target markets and respective of their environment and location. For her work, she has received Gold Key, Designers Circle and ARDY awards for the interior design of such projects as the Adolphus, the Wigwam Resort and Country Club, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas, Marriott’s Summit Watch at Park City, the Lodge at Pebble Beach, the Kea Lani and the Lodge at Sea Island. In l992, she was the only designer in the U.S. to receive the honor of professional membership by invitation from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). She was also the l993 recipient of the prestigious Platinum Circle® Award. Jill is a member of the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC).  Jill’s work has appeared in Designers West, Architectural Digest, Hotels, Interior Design, Lodging Hospitality, Restaurant/Hotel Design International, Restaurant Hospitality, Interiors, and Travel & Leisure. Books in which she is featured include, California Design, International Hotel and Resort Design, and International Hotel Redesign. For PBC International, Jill wrote California Interiors, a popular reference on contemporary California design. She has also appeared on “The Designer’s Challenge” for HG-TV and “The World’s Ten Best Hotel Suites” for the Travel Channel.  Her university education is in art history, languages, and design at U.C.L.A., the Academy of Fine Arts, Rome; and Chouinard Institute. She is a California Certified Interior Designer and founding member of the CCIDC. Jill is an active contributor to the field of interior design education and has taught in the Environmental Design Department at UCLA. She was the only interior designer to sit on the board of U.C.L.A.’s prestigious Department of Architecture and Urban Planning. More recently, when she and her family moved to the Napa Valley, she served two terms on the board of the di Rosa Museum. She is frequently asked to speak to various groups and organizations on the value of interior design, its integration with art and architecture, and its affect on marketing.  Some of the notable hotel and resort projects she has completed include the Lodge at Sea Island, named by ZAGAT as the Best Small Hotel in the US and Best Golf Resort in North America by Golf Digest; the Hayman Island Resort in the Great Barrier Reef; the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale; the Hotel ERWIN in Venice, CA; the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa; the Fisher Island Club Spa and Porto Cervo Restaurant in Miami; Halls Chop House in Charleston and Greenville; the Bardessono Resort and Spa in Yountville, CA; the Chateau de la Cree in Santenay, France; Domaine Serene Winery in Dayton, OR and, the Canyon Ranch Retreat in Woodside, CA. Connect with Jill Cole Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #16: Charles Pavarini – Behind the Scenes of The Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 #276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm #502: Lisa Haude: Paradigm Design Group: Success Strategies to Run a Luxury Hospitality Design Firm #587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager Other Resources Mentioned: Book: Paradise Now: The Extraordinary Life of Karl Lagerfeld by William Middleton Tue, 11 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World full 868 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jill Cole: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Jill Cole, an icon of the hospitality interior design industry. At Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates, Jill has made a name for herself, designing fabulous hotel and... Today With Jill Cole: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Jill Cole, an icon of the hospitality interior design industry. At Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates, Jill has made a name for herself, designing fabulous hotel and resort interiors worldwide for over 40 years. She joins us to discuss how she has sustained this impactful and extensive career in an ever-changing world. This is a great conversation with one of the best in the business that touches on a little bit of everything, from finding inspiration to embracing tech and staying true to your core values. Pick It Apart [11:13] Jill talks her first hotel design, the Adolphis Hotel in Dallas, and how that motivated transitioning her firm from office and retail design into hospitality design [18:17] Jill and LuAnn discuss designing high-end senior living, how it mimics luxury resorts and was another opportunity for Jill’s firm to consider when other interior design projects were slowing due to the financial collapse of 2009. [23:58] LuAnn and Jill discuss embracing tech as an interior designer. [30:30] LuAnn asks Jill how she understands design trends to inform and expand aesthetics. [37:20] Jill talks about defining your personal and company values and staying true to them in the industry. [44:16] Jill talks about hospitality interior design appealing to a broad market and the importance of knowing who you are serving as what your competitors are doing. LuAnn Nigara and Jill Cole's Ah-Ha Moments “We spend, realistically, a large percentage of our lives working. I want people to feel good about it. I want you to be enthusiastic. I want you to enjoy your co-workers. I want you to enjoy the experience of dealing with each other, and feel good about what you're doing.” – Jill Cole “You have to absorb all things visual, and filter through that and interpret it in your own way, and spit out the latest trends…If all you're doing for inspiration is looking at pictures of your competitors work, you're not doing your job.” – Jill Cole “When you do work and live in your values, then it builds that trust and reliability factor with the people that are orbiting you.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Jill Cole: Jill is Managing Principal and President of Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates. Since the l98l re-opening of the Adolphus Hotel, Jill has devoted herself exclusively to hotel, resort, and recreational design. Her particular focus is on the creation of projects that are responsive to their target markets and respective of their environment and location. For her work, she has received Gold Key, Designers Circle and ARDY awards for the interior design of such projects as the Adolphus, the Wigwam Resort and Country Club, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas, Marriott’s Summit Watch at Park City, the Lodge at Pebble Beach, the Kea Lani and the Lodge at Sea Island. In l992, she was the only designer in the U.S. to receive the honor of professional membership by invitation from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). She was also the l993 recipient of the prestigious Platinum Circle® Award. Jill is a member of the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC).  Jill’s work has appeared in Designers West, Architectural Digest, Hotels, Interior Design, Lodging Hospitality, Restaurant/Hotel Design International, Restaurant Hospitality, Interiors, and Travel & Leisure. Books in which she is featured include, California Design, International Hotel and Resort Design, and International Hotel Redesign. For PBC International, Jill wrote California Interiors, a popular reference on contemporary California design. She has also appeared on “The Designer’s Challenge” for HG-TV and “The World’s Ten Best Hotel Suites” for the Travel Channel.  Her university education is in art history, languages, and design at U.C.L.A., the Academy of Fine Arts, Rome; and Chouinard Institute. She is a California Certified Interior Designer and founding member of the CCIDC. Jill is an active contributor to the field of interior design education and has taught in the Environmental Design Department at UCLA. She was the only interior designer to sit on the board of U.C.L.A.’s prestigious Department of Architecture and Urban Planning. More recently, when she and her family moved to the Napa Valley, she served two terms on the board of the di Rosa Museum. She is frequently asked to speak to various groups and organizations on the value of interior design, its integration with art and architecture, and its affect on marketing.  Some of the notable hotel and resort projects she has completed include the Lodge at Sea Island, named by ZAGAT as the Best Small Hotel in the US and Best Golf Resort in North America by Golf Digest; the Hayman Island Resort in the Great Barrier Reef; the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale; the Hotel ERWIN in Venice, CA; the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa; the Fisher Island Club Spa and Porto Cervo Restaurant in Miami; Halls Chop House in Charleston and Greenville; the Bardessono Resort and Spa in Yountville, CA; the Chateau de la Cree in Santenay, France; Domaine Serene Winery in Dayton, OR and, the Canyon Ranch Retreat in Woodside, CA. Connect with Jill Cole Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #16: Charles Pavarini – Behind the Scenes of The Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 #276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm #502: Lisa Haude: Paradigm Design Group: Success Strategies to Run a Luxury Hospitality Design Firm #587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life #864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager Other Resources Mentioned: Book: Paradise Now: The Extraordinary Life of Karl Lagerfeld by William Middleton Today With Jill Cole:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I'm joined by Jill Cole, an icon of the hospitality interior design industry. At Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates, Jill has made a name for herself, designing fabulous hotel and resort interiors worldwide for over 40 years. She joins us to discuss how she has sustained this impactful and extensive career in an ever-changing world. This is a great conversation with one of the best in the business that touches on a little bit of everything, from finding inspiration to embracing tech and staying true to your core values.

Pick It Apart

[11:13] Jill talks her first hotel design, the Adolphis Hotel in Dallas, and how that motivated transitioning her firm from office and retail design into hospitality design

[18:17] Jill and LuAnn discuss designing high-end senior living, how it mimics luxury resorts and was another opportunity for Jill’s firm to consider when other interior design projects were slowing due to the financial collapse of 2009.

[23:58] LuAnn and Jill discuss embracing tech as an interior designer.

[30:30] LuAnn asks Jill how she understands design trends to inform and expand aesthetics.

[37:20] Jill talks about defining your personal and company values and staying true to them in the industry.

[44:16] Jill talks about hospitality interior design appealing to a broad market and the importance of knowing who you are serving as what your competitors are doing.

LuAnn Nigara and Jill Cole's Ah-Ha Moments

“We spend, realistically, a large percentage of our lives working. I want people to feel good about it. I want you to be enthusiastic. I want you to enjoy your co-workers. I want you to enjoy the experience of dealing with each other, and feel good about what you're doing.” – Jill Cole

“You have to absorb all things visual, and filter through that and interpret it in your own way, and spit out the latest trends…If all you're doing for inspiration is looking at pictures of your competitors work, you're not doing your job.” – Jill Cole

“When you do work and live in your values, then it builds that trust and reliability factor with the people that are orbiting you.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jill Cole:

Jill is Managing Principal and President of Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates. Since the l98l re-opening of the Adolphus Hotel, Jill has devoted herself exclusively to hotel, resort, and recreational design. Her particular focus is on the creation of projects that are responsive to their target markets and respective of their environment and location. For her work, she has received Gold Key, Designers Circle and ARDY awards for the interior design of such projects as the Adolphus, the Wigwam Resort and Country Club, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas, Marriott’s Summit Watch at Park City, the Lodge at Pebble Beach, the Kea Lani and the Lodge at Sea Island. In l992, she was the only designer in the U.S. to receive the honor of professional membership by invitation from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). She was also the l993 recipient of the prestigious Platinum Circle® Award. Jill is a member of the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC). 

Jill’s work has appeared in Designers West, Architectural Digest, Hotels, Interior Design, Lodging Hospitality, Restaurant/Hotel Design International, Restaurant Hospitality, Interiors, and Travel & Leisure. Books in which she is featured include, California Design, International Hotel and Resort Design, and International Hotel Redesign. For PBC International, Jill wrote California Interiors, a popular reference on contemporary California design. She has also appeared on “The Designer’s Challenge” for HG-TV and “The World’s Ten Best Hotel Suites” for the Travel Channel. 

Her university education is in art history, languages, and design at U.C.L.A., the Academy of Fine Arts, Rome; and Chouinard Institute. She is a California Certified Interior Designer and founding member of the CCIDC. Jill is an active contributor to the field of interior design education and has taught in the Environmental Design Department at UCLA. She was the only interior designer to sit on the board of U.C.L.A.’s prestigious Department of Architecture and Urban Planning. More recently, when she and her family moved to the Napa Valley, she served two terms on the board of the di Rosa Museum. She is frequently asked to speak to various groups and organizations on the value of interior design, its integration with art and architecture, and its affect on marketing. 

Some of the notable hotel and resort projects she has completed include the Lodge at Sea Island, named by ZAGAT as the Best Small Hotel in the US and Best Golf Resort in North America by Golf Digest; the Hayman Island Resort in the Great Barrier Reef; the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale; the Hotel ERWIN in Venice, CA; the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa; the Fisher Island Club Spa and Porto Cervo Restaurant in Miami; Halls Chop House in Charleston and Greenville; the Bardessono Resort and Spa in Yountville, CA; the Chateau de la Cree in Santenay, France; Domaine Serene Winery in Dayton, OR and, the Canyon Ranch Retreat in Woodside, CA.

Connect with Jill Cole

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#16: Charles Pavarini – Behind the Scenes of The Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 #276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm #502: Lisa Haude: Paradigm Design Group: Success Strategies to Run a Luxury Hospitality Design Firm

#587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

#840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

#864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager

Other Resources Mentioned:

Book: Paradise Now: The Extraordinary Life of Karl Lagerfeld by William Middleton

]]> 3599 no 867: Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/867-power-talk-friday-casey-gromer-do-you-need-a-fractional-integrator Today With Casey Gromer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Casey Gromer, of C-Suite Boutique. Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. Casey tells us all about what a Fractional Integrator is, in addition to a COO, DOO, and OBM, and how these roles may benefit your design business. Pick It Apart [2:00] Casey explains when it is time to hire an executive assistant. [10:46] What is a director of operations? [18:38] Casey shares what we should be on the lookout for when incorporating these roles into our business. [31:50] What should we be looking for when hiring an integrator or fractional integrator? [36:52] Strategies to develop accountability within your team. [47:55] Casey tells us what she thinks is important to look for in an ideal candidate while hiring. LuAnn Nigara and Casey Gromer's Ah-Ha Moments “There’s a lot of confusion around who we need in our business at any given time.” - Casey Gromer “Each of us has our skill set and sometimes it’s hard to recognize that someone else’s skillset is completely opposite, but we know that you have to hire people who aren’t duplicates of you.” - LuAnn Nigara  “More important than revenue levels are the number of people you have. So, the more people you have doing things for your business the more value you will get from an integrator.” - Casey Gromer More About Casey Gromer: Casey Gromer is a 20-year business and marketing expert. As an MBA, she is widely regarded as a go-to source for visionary women entrepreneurs who dream of building businesses to run without them.  Casey is host of Female Founders Breaking Boundaries podcast where she encourages women to ditch traditional, male-dominated business advice in favor of more realistic, workable ways of running their business while still achieving success.  As founder of C-Suite Boutique, Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. The industries supported include retail, e-commerce, service businesses, health / wellness, and manufacturing. Connect with Casey Gromer Website Instagram  LinkedIn Facebook  Visionary Exercise A Fresh Wave of Marketing Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live tickets are now on sale! Register for the Prerequisites for Success free Zoom event! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values Sass Says with Christie Rocha Fri, 07 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Casey Gromer: Do You Need a Fractional Integrator? full 867 LuAnn Nigara Today With Casey Gromer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Casey Gromer, of C-Suite Boutique. Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients... Today With Casey Gromer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Casey Gromer, of C-Suite Boutique. Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. Casey tells us all about what a Fractional Integrator is, in addition to a COO, DOO, and OBM, and how these roles may benefit your design business. Pick It Apart [2:00] Casey explains when it is time to hire an executive assistant. [10:46] What is a director of operations? [18:38] Casey shares what we should be on the lookout for when incorporating these roles into our business. [31:50] What should we be looking for when hiring an integrator or fractional integrator? [36:52] Strategies to develop accountability within your team. [47:55] Casey tells us what she thinks is important to look for in an ideal candidate while hiring. LuAnn Nigara and Casey Gromer's Ah-Ha Moments “There’s a lot of confusion around who we need in our business at any given time.” - Casey Gromer “Each of us has our skill set and sometimes it’s hard to recognize that someone else’s skillset is completely opposite, but we know that you have to hire people who aren’t duplicates of you.” - LuAnn Nigara  “More important than revenue levels are the number of people you have. So, the more people you have doing things for your business the more value you will get from an integrator.” - Casey Gromer More About Casey Gromer: Casey Gromer is a 20-year business and marketing expert. As an MBA, she is widely regarded as a go-to source for visionary women entrepreneurs who dream of building businesses to run without them.  Casey is host of Female Founders Breaking Boundaries podcast where she encourages women to ditch traditional, male-dominated business advice in favor of more realistic, workable ways of running their business while still achieving success.  As founder of C-Suite Boutique, Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. The industries supported include retail, e-commerce, service businesses, health / wellness, and manufacturing. Connect with Casey Gromer Website Instagram  LinkedIn Facebook  Visionary Exercise A Fresh Wave of Marketing Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live tickets are now on sale! Register for the Prerequisites for Success free Zoom event! luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values Sass Says with Christie Rocha Today With Casey Gromer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Casey Gromer, of C-Suite Boutique. Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. Casey tells us all about what a Fractional Integrator is, in addition to a COO, DOO, and OBM, and how these roles may benefit your design business.

Pick It Apart

[2:00] Casey explains when it is time to hire an executive assistant.

[10:46] What is a director of operations?

[18:38] Casey shares what we should be on the lookout for when incorporating these roles into our business.

[31:50] What should we be looking for when hiring an integrator or fractional integrator?

[36:52] Strategies to develop accountability within your team.

[47:55] Casey tells us what she thinks is important to look for in an ideal candidate while hiring.

LuAnn Nigara and Casey Gromer's Ah-Ha Moments

“There’s a lot of confusion around who we need in our business at any given time.” - Casey Gromer

“Each of us has our skill set and sometimes it’s hard to recognize that someone else’s skillset is completely opposite, but we know that you have to hire people who aren’t duplicates of you.” - LuAnn Nigara 

“More important than revenue levels are the number of people you have. So, the more people you have doing things for your business the more value you will get from an integrator.” - Casey Gromer

More About Casey Gromer:

Casey Gromer is a 20-year business and marketing expert. As an MBA, she is widely regarded as a go-to source for visionary women entrepreneurs who dream of building businesses to run without them. 

Casey is host of Female Founders Breaking Boundaries podcast where she encourages women to ditch traditional, male-dominated business advice in favor of more realistic, workable ways of running their business while still achieving success. 

As founder of C-Suite Boutique, Casey and her team currently serve women entrepreneurs as Fractional Integrators. Under their leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. The industries supported include retail, e-commerce, service businesses, health / wellness, and manufacturing.

Connect with Casey Gromer

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn

Facebook 

Visionary Exercise

A Fresh Wave of Marketing Book

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live tickets are now on sale!

Register for the Prerequisites for Success free Zoom event!

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

#564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19

#823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

#838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values

Sass Says with Christie Rocha

]]> 3994 no 866: McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/866-mccall-dulkys-building-a-successful-design-business-from-around-the-world Today With McCall Dulkys: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall. McCall successfully grew her design firm in Florida while living thousands of miles away. McCall has quite the story to share and I think it may humble some of you hearing challenges she faced while building her business. McCall has consistently doubled her yearly revenue and she is here to share how. Pick It Apart [6:20] McCall shares how the time she spent in Europe sparked her love of design. [14:08] McCall shares what was happening personally during this experience. [17:10] McCall’s experience with postpartum depression. [20:15] McCall explains how during all of the hurdles she was thrown, how she was building her design business. [35:54] McCall and LuAnn talk about the value from Richelle Plett’s How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test course at LuAnn University. LuAnn Nigara and McCall Dulkys' Ah-Ha Moments “Living in a wide variety of countries, I was able to take a little bit of each with me and it has given me an appreciation of all different styles of design.” - McCall Dulkys  “My clients come to me because of my history, experiences, and story.” - McCall Dulkys “There’s so many different ways to run your business and it’s easy to get caught up in running your business in one way, maybe the same way you see everyone else doing it. It’s so important to is for you to sit down and make a business model that works for you.” - McCall Dulkys More About McCall Dulkys: McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall, is internationally known for her innovative and modern approach to interiors and living spaces. Leading and designing by the mantra “your space is an extension of yourself,” McCall seeks to redefine personal spaces and inspire clients through effortless and distinctive designs that look and feel good. “Home,” however, has always been a relative term for McCall, as she and her family of five lived in various countries across Europe due to her husband’s professional basketball career.  While abroad, after sharing photos on social media of her investment property renovation, McCall began helping family and friends redesign their homes. During her first three years of business, McCall grew her business virtually, helping clients in her hometown of Jupiter, Florida, while living thousands of miles away wherever her husband’s job brought her. As referrals poured in, her business model quickly adapted, and what began as virtual design grew into a full-service, turn-key interior design company. When her husband retired from playing basketball in 2021 and transitioned into coaching, McCall realized her nomadic lifestyle would likely remain intact and that she would need to build a unique business plan to run her design firm in Florida from whatever NBA city her family would call home.    McCall has successfully grown her design firm in Florida and has consistently doubled her yearly revenue through implementing high-level strategies. Her clients include several notable NBA and NFL players, countless busy families, and those wanting livable luxury without fear of taking design risks. Her work has been featured on HGTV, Apartment Therapy, Domino, My Domaine, and more.    When McCall is not designing homes, she works as an underpaid assistant to her three toddlers and enjoys cooking, traveling, and, of course, watching basketball. Connect with McCall Dulkys Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #6: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect With Clients in Interior Design #678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes #800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test  #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values Sass Says with Christie Rocha: The Therapy Sessions We Didn’t Know We Needed Tue, 04 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000 McCall Dulkys: Building a Successful Design Business From Around the World full 866 LuAnn Nigara Today With McCall Dulkys: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall. McCall successfully grew her design firm in Florida while living thousands of... Today With McCall Dulkys: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall. McCall successfully grew her design firm in Florida while living thousands of miles away. McCall has quite the story to share and I think it may humble some of you hearing challenges she faced while building her business. McCall has consistently doubled her yearly revenue and she is here to share how. Pick It Apart [6:20] McCall shares how the time she spent in Europe sparked her love of design. [14:08] McCall shares what was happening personally during this experience. [17:10] McCall’s experience with postpartum depression. [20:15] McCall explains how during all of the hurdles she was thrown, how she was building her design business. [35:54] McCall and LuAnn talk about the value from Richelle Plett’s How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test course at LuAnn University. LuAnn Nigara and McCall Dulkys' Ah-Ha Moments “Living in a wide variety of countries, I was able to take a little bit of each with me and it has given me an appreciation of all different styles of design.” - McCall Dulkys  “My clients come to me because of my history, experiences, and story.” - McCall Dulkys “There’s so many different ways to run your business and it’s easy to get caught up in running your business in one way, maybe the same way you see everyone else doing it. It’s so important to is for you to sit down and make a business model that works for you.” - McCall Dulkys More About McCall Dulkys: McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall, is internationally known for her innovative and modern approach to interiors and living spaces. Leading and designing by the mantra “your space is an extension of yourself,” McCall seeks to redefine personal spaces and inspire clients through effortless and distinctive designs that look and feel good. “Home,” however, has always been a relative term for McCall, as she and her family of five lived in various countries across Europe due to her husband’s professional basketball career.  While abroad, after sharing photos on social media of her investment property renovation, McCall began helping family and friends redesign their homes. During her first three years of business, McCall grew her business virtually, helping clients in her hometown of Jupiter, Florida, while living thousands of miles away wherever her husband’s job brought her. As referrals poured in, her business model quickly adapted, and what began as virtual design grew into a full-service, turn-key interior design company. When her husband retired from playing basketball in 2021 and transitioned into coaching, McCall realized her nomadic lifestyle would likely remain intact and that she would need to build a unique business plan to run her design firm in Florida from whatever NBA city her family would call home.    McCall has successfully grown her design firm in Florida and has consistently doubled her yearly revenue through implementing high-level strategies. Her clients include several notable NBA and NFL players, countless busy families, and those wanting livable luxury without fear of taking design risks. Her work has been featured on HGTV, Apartment Therapy, Domino, My Domaine, and more.    When McCall is not designing homes, she works as an underpaid assistant to her three toddlers and enjoys cooking, traveling, and, of course, watching basketball. Connect with McCall Dulkys Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #6: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward #492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success #564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect With Clients in Interior Design #678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes #800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test  #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values Sass Says with Christie Rocha: The Therapy Sessions We Didn’t Know We Needed Today With McCall Dulkys:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall. McCall successfully grew her design firm in Florida while living thousands of miles away. McCall has quite the story to share and I think it may humble some of you hearing challenges she faced while building her business. McCall has consistently doubled her yearly revenue and she is here to share how.

Pick It Apart

[6:20] McCall shares how the time she spent in Europe sparked her love of design.

[14:08] McCall shares what was happening personally during this experience.

[17:10] McCall’s experience with postpartum depression.

[20:15] McCall explains how during all of the hurdles she was thrown, how she was building her design business.

[35:54] McCall and LuAnn talk about the value from Richelle Plett’s How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test course at LuAnn University.

LuAnn Nigara and McCall Dulkys' Ah-Ha Moments

“Living in a wide variety of countries, I was able to take a little bit of each with me and it has given me an appreciation of all different styles of design.” - McCall Dulkys 

“My clients come to me because of my history, experiences, and story.” - McCall Dulkys

“There’s so many different ways to run your business and it’s easy to get caught up in running your business in one way, maybe the same way you see everyone else doing it. It’s so important to is for you to sit down and make a business model that works for you.” - McCall Dulkys

More About McCall Dulkys:

McCall Dulkys, Founder and Principal Designer of Interiors By McCall, is internationally known for her innovative and modern approach to interiors and living spaces. Leading and designing by the mantra “your space is an extension of yourself,” McCall seeks to redefine personal spaces and inspire clients through effortless and distinctive designs that look and feel good. “Home,” however, has always been a relative term for McCall, as she and her family of five lived in various countries across Europe due to her husband’s professional basketball career. 

While abroad, after sharing photos on social media of her investment property renovation, McCall began helping family and friends redesign their homes. During her first three years of business, McCall grew her business virtually, helping clients in her hometown of Jupiter, Florida, while living thousands of miles away wherever her husband’s job brought her. As referrals poured in, her business model quickly adapted, and what began as virtual design grew into a full-service, turn-key interior design company. When her husband retired from playing basketball in 2021 and transitioned into coaching, McCall realized her nomadic lifestyle would likely remain intact and that she would need to build a unique business plan to run her design firm in Florida from whatever NBA city her family would call home.   

McCall has successfully grown her design firm in Florida and has consistently doubled her yearly revenue through implementing high-level strategies. Her clients include several notable NBA and NFL players, countless busy families, and those wanting livable luxury without fear of taking design risks. Her work has been featured on HGTV, Apartment Therapy, Domino, My Domaine, and more.   

When McCall is not designing homes, she works as an underpaid assistant to her three toddlers and enjoys cooking, traveling, and, of course, watching basketball.

Connect with McCall Dulkys

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#6: Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward

#492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

#564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect With Clients in Interior Design

#678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes

#800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test 

#838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values

Sass Says with Christie Rocha: The Therapy Sessions We Didn’t Know We Needed

]]> 3636 no 865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/865-power-talk-friday-terri-taylor-the-real-deal-when-working-with-contractors-on-a-remodel Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Terri Taylor for the 8th time. This episode is sponsored by her Interior Design Business Academy and specifically The Real Deal which takes place this May 10th, 11th, and 12th 2023.  You know that Terri is an expert at coaching designers on how to be profitable on remodeling jobs. One of the factors of a successful remodel job is how you communicate and interact with your contractor. Today, she is sharing the five mistakes to avoid when working with a contractor.  This information is just a taste of what Terri has in store for her upcoming Real Deal presentation. Her once-a-year three-day event is, in her own words, the recipe for a highly profitable remodeling job. Pick It Apart [23:38] A common occurrence for when a designer gets a lead on a remodel job. [32:04] Terri explains what an exploratory agreement is and why you should have it. [47:57] The last mistake designers make when working with a contractor- initiate the conversation. [1:04:50] Terri talks about The Real Deal, when it is, and all of the value it will provide designers. LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s not to say we don’t need the contractor and his prices, but we don’t need his prices in the first meeting.” - Terri Taylor “If you initiate this conversation about who is going to buy and do what with the contractor, if it’s your job and you’re bringing them in you get to choose.” - Terri Taylor More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth. Terri has more than 30 years of experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth. As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week. In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success. Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business. Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website Podcast Terri's FREE training webinar “Own that Remodeling Job and Get Paid what You are Worth” taking place live on March 31, April 3 and April 5 at 12pm ET Instagram Facebook Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? #829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel full 865 LuAnn Nigara Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Terri Taylor for the 8th time. This episode is sponsored by her Interior Design Business Academy and specifically The Real Deal... Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Terri Taylor for the 8th time. This episode is sponsored by her Interior Design Business Academy and specifically The Real Deal which takes place this May 10th, 11th, and 12th 2023.  You know that Terri is an expert at coaching designers on how to be profitable on remodeling jobs. One of the factors of a successful remodel job is how you communicate and interact with your contractor. Today, she is sharing the five mistakes to avoid when working with a contractor.  This information is just a taste of what Terri has in store for her upcoming Real Deal presentation. Her once-a-year three-day event is, in her own words, the recipe for a highly profitable remodeling job. Pick It Apart [23:38] A common occurrence for when a designer gets a lead on a remodel job. [32:04] Terri explains what an exploratory agreement is and why you should have it. [47:57] The last mistake designers make when working with a contractor- initiate the conversation. [1:04:50] Terri talks about The Real Deal, when it is, and all of the value it will provide designers. LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s not to say we don’t need the contractor and his prices, but we don’t need his prices in the first meeting.” - Terri Taylor “If you initiate this conversation about who is going to buy and do what with the contractor, if it’s your job and you’re bringing them in you get to choose.” - Terri Taylor More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth. Terri has more than 30 years of experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth. As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week. In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success. Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business. Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website Podcast Terri's FREE training webinar “Own that Remodeling Job and Get Paid what You are Worth” taking place live on March 31, April 3 and April 5 at 12pm ET Instagram Facebook Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? #829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Today With Terri Taylor:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Terri Taylor for the 8th time. This episode is sponsored by her Interior Design Business Academy and specifically The Real Deal which takes place this May 10th, 11th, and 12th 2023. 

You know that Terri is an expert at coaching designers on how to be profitable on remodeling jobs. One of the factors of a successful remodel job is how you communicate and interact with your contractor. Today, she is sharing the five mistakes to avoid when working with a contractor. 

This information is just a taste of what Terri has in store for her upcoming Real Deal presentation. Her once-a-year three-day event is, in her own words, the recipe for a highly profitable remodeling job.

Pick It Apart

[23:38] A common occurrence for when a designer gets a lead on a remodel job.

[32:04] Terri explains what an exploratory agreement is and why you should have it.

[47:57] The last mistake designers make when working with a contractor- initiate the conversation.

[1:04:50] Terri talks about The Real Deal, when it is, and all of the value it will provide designers.

LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s not to say we don’t need the contractor and his prices, but we don’t need his prices in the first meeting.” - Terri Taylor

“If you initiate this conversation about who is going to buy and do what with the contractor, if it’s your job and you’re bringing them in you get to choose.” - Terri Taylor

More About Terri Taylor:

Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth.

Terri has more than 30 years of experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth.

As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week.

In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success. Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business.

Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri Taylor

Website

Podcast

Terri's FREE training webinar “Own that Remodeling Job and Get Paid what You are Worth” taking place live on March 31, April 3 and April 5 at 12pm ET

Instagram

Facebook

Other Shows Mentioned:

#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit

#662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy

#710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Get Paid What You Are Worth. Sponsored By Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth

#813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Design Fees VS Hourly Billing- What Are Flat Fees the Way to Go?

#829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It!

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

]]> 5308 no 864: Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/864-hillaire-pickett-martin-lesson-from-an-interior-design-operations-manager Today With Hillaire Pickett Martin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Hilaire Pickett Martin. Hilaire runs the day-to-day operations at Design Lines, an interior design firm started by her mother, Judy Pickett, in 1979. Hilaire is here to share how she finds operational gaps and implements technological frameworks to support the workflow at Design Lines, with helpful tips and applications you can utilize in your own business. Listen in and learn how to streamline your systems, save time, and maybe even take next Tuesday off. Pick It Apart [2:33] Hilaire talks about her background and coming to work for her mother’s design firm. [6:48] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes the operational tasks and organizes processes by mapping them out and understanding the different steps involved to see where any gaps might be. [11:57] LuAnn and Hilaire discuss the pros and cons of implementing new technology, some platforms Hilaire loves, and how the user experience can influence decisions. [33:13] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes business tasks. [43:18] Hilaire and LuAnn discuss designer outreach and Hilaire’s efforts with high school and college interior design programs. LuAnn Nigara and Hillaire Pickett Martin's Ah-Ha Moments “If something isn't working, break it down and figure out…what are the parts about this process that are working? But what are the parts that are not working or are just painful?” – LuAnn Nigara “There’s simplicity in operations.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin “If a new technology is not user intuitive or friendly—it ain't gonna win in my book.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin “No one platform has to work for everything that we do.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Hillaire Pickett Martin: Hilaire Pickett Martin is a graduate of Elon University. Since joining her mother at Design Lines in 2008, she has handled Design Lines’ communications and applies her enthusiasm and passion to promoting the firm. In 2013 Hilaire stepped into additionally overseeing all the accounting and day-to-day operations of Design Lines. Described as hard-working and very organized, Hilaire enjoys the team atmosphere at Design Lines, the pulling together everyone does to make a project a success. She is proud to work alongside and learn from her mother. Connect with Hillaire Pickett Martin Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship AWDB #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems WTFP #21: Vita’s Tip in Ten: How To Protect Yourself By Following Your Systems Other Resources Mentioned: Asana Canva Airtable Milanote DocuSign Monday.com Later Tue, 28 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Hilaire Pickett Martin: Lesson From an Interior Design Operations Manager full 864 LuAnn Nigara Today With Hillaire Pickett Martin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Hilaire Pickett Martin. Hilaire runs the day-to-day operations at Design Lines, an interior design firm started by her mother, Judy Pickett,... Today With Hillaire Pickett Martin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Hilaire Pickett Martin. Hilaire runs the day-to-day operations at Design Lines, an interior design firm started by her mother, Judy Pickett, in 1979. Hilaire is here to share how she finds operational gaps and implements technological frameworks to support the workflow at Design Lines, with helpful tips and applications you can utilize in your own business. Listen in and learn how to streamline your systems, save time, and maybe even take next Tuesday off. Pick It Apart [2:33] Hilaire talks about her background and coming to work for her mother’s design firm. [6:48] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes the operational tasks and organizes processes by mapping them out and understanding the different steps involved to see where any gaps might be. [11:57] LuAnn and Hilaire discuss the pros and cons of implementing new technology, some platforms Hilaire loves, and how the user experience can influence decisions. [33:13] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes business tasks. [43:18] Hilaire and LuAnn discuss designer outreach and Hilaire’s efforts with high school and college interior design programs. LuAnn Nigara and Hillaire Pickett Martin's Ah-Ha Moments “If something isn't working, break it down and figure out…what are the parts about this process that are working? But what are the parts that are not working or are just painful?” – LuAnn Nigara “There’s simplicity in operations.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin “If a new technology is not user intuitive or friendly—it ain't gonna win in my book.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin “No one platform has to work for everything that we do.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Hillaire Pickett Martin: Hilaire Pickett Martin is a graduate of Elon University. Since joining her mother at Design Lines in 2008, she has handled Design Lines’ communications and applies her enthusiasm and passion to promoting the firm. In 2013 Hilaire stepped into additionally overseeing all the accounting and day-to-day operations of Design Lines. Described as hard-working and very organized, Hilaire enjoys the team atmosphere at Design Lines, the pulling together everyone does to make a project a success. She is proud to work alongside and learn from her mother. Connect with Hillaire Pickett Martin Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WTFP #125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship AWDB #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems WTFP #21: Vita’s Tip in Ten: How To Protect Yourself By Following Your Systems Other Resources Mentioned: Asana Canva Airtable Milanote DocuSign Monday.com Later Today With Hillaire Pickett Martin:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. On today’s episode, I am joined by Hilaire Pickett Martin. Hilaire runs the day-to-day operations at Design Lines, an interior design firm started by her mother, Judy Pickett, in 1979. Hilaire is here to share how she finds operational gaps and implements technological frameworks to support the workflow at Design Lines, with helpful tips and applications you can utilize in your own business. Listen in and learn how to streamline your systems, save time, and maybe even take next Tuesday off.

Pick It Apart

[2:33] Hilaire talks about her background and coming to work for her mother’s design firm.

[6:48] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes the operational tasks and organizes processes by mapping them out and understanding the different steps involved to see where any gaps might be.

[11:57] LuAnn and Hilaire discuss the pros and cons of implementing new technology, some platforms Hilaire loves, and how the user experience can influence decisions.

[33:13] Hilaire explains how she compartmentalizes business tasks.

[43:18] Hilaire and LuAnn discuss designer outreach and Hilaire’s efforts with high school and college interior design programs.

LuAnn Nigara and Hillaire Pickett Martin's Ah-Ha Moments

“If something isn't working, break it down and figure out…what are the parts about this process that are working? But what are the parts that are not working or are just painful?” – LuAnn Nigara

“There’s simplicity in operations.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin

“If a new technology is not user intuitive or friendly—it ain't gonna win in my book.” – Hilaire Pickett Martin

“No one platform has to work for everything that we do.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Hillaire Pickett Martin:

Hilaire Pickett Martin is a graduate of Elon University. Since joining her mother at Design Lines in 2008, she has handled Design Lines’ communications and applies her enthusiasm and passion to promoting the firm. In 2013 Hilaire stepped into additionally overseeing all the accounting and day-to-day operations of Design Lines. Described as hard-working and very organized, Hilaire enjoys the team atmosphere at Design Lines, the pulling together everyone does to make a project a success. She is proud to work alongside and learn from her mother.

Connect with Hillaire Pickett Martin

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

WTFP #125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship

AWDB #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

WTFP #21: Vita’s Tip in Ten: How To Protect Yourself By Following Your Systems

Other Resources Mentioned:

Asana

Canva

Airtable

Milanote

DocuSign

Monday.com

Later

]]> 4292 no 863: Power Talk Friday: Howard A. Lim: How to Build a Ten-Figure, World-Class Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/863-power-talk-friday-howard-a-lim-how-to-build-a-ten-figure-world-class-brand Today With Howard A. Lim: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. What does it take to build a ten-figure world-class brand? Today, Howard A. Lim of HOW Creative is here to walk us through all of the steps and inner work needed to build a brand on this level. Even if you aren’t striving to be known around the world, Howard’s DNA of a brand that he teaches us will benefit you and take you where you want to be. Howard says that you must clearly define your Brand Architecture at the outset in order to sustain value, growth, and equity. So there’s some inner work to do first. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [7:11] Howard shares what we should be thinking about if we want to be a big brand name in the industry. [13:55] Howard explains the importance of your vision and how it works.  [17:45] Ideas so we can tap into our philosophy when we don’t have one.  [30:54]  You’ve done all of the inner work and defined your brand, now how do we attract big brands and become known globally? [39:08] If we become lucky enough to achieve multiple collaborations, what do we do to maintain those relationships? [47:39] Quality always pays off. LuAnn Nigara and Howard A. Lim's Ah-Ha Moments “When you look at successful brands like Apple or Tesla the reason they are so powerful is because their brand is by design.” - Howard A. Lim “ A brand is what others are saying, now what you are saying.” - Howard A. Lim “We create the reality that surrounds us, so why not think big?” - Howard A. Lim More About Howard A. Lim: Business and Brand Architect™ Howard A. Lim designs businesses from the inside-out and has been a disruptive innovator since 1987, when he founded his full-service firm, HOW CREATIVE. Mr. Lim partners with business leaders to create influential, world-class businesses and brands using his unique, proprietary hybrid model of business development, branding, and customer engagement to attain exponential profits, growth, value, and new opportunities quickly and effectively. Representing companies of all types and sizes, including Apple, Disney, Paramount, DreamWorks, Xerox, Oracle, Mattel, and AT&T, Mr. Lim collaborates with clients globally to develop and execute leading, world-class businesses and brands while adding billions of dollars to his clients' profits. Connect with Howard A. Lim Website  LinkedIn Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #125: Nicole Heymer- How to Brand Your Business. Yes, Again! Do Not Miss This One!!! #317: Nicole Heymer- 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Makes Things Happen #406: Power Talk Friday- Nicole Heymer- You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #701: Kristen Rivoli- New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers  Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Howard A. Lim: How to Build a Ten-Figure, World-Class Brand full 863 LuAnn Nigara Today With Howard A. Lim: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. What does it take to build a ten-figure world-class brand? Today, Howard A. Lim of HOW Creative is here to walk us through all of the steps and inner work needed to build a brand on this... Today With Howard A. Lim: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. What does it take to build a ten-figure world-class brand? Today, Howard A. Lim of HOW Creative is here to walk us through all of the steps and inner work needed to build a brand on this level. Even if you aren’t striving to be known around the world, Howard’s DNA of a brand that he teaches us will benefit you and take you where you want to be. Howard says that you must clearly define your Brand Architecture at the outset in order to sustain value, growth, and equity. So there’s some inner work to do first. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [7:11] Howard shares what we should be thinking about if we want to be a big brand name in the industry. [13:55] Howard explains the importance of your vision and how it works.  [17:45] Ideas so we can tap into our philosophy when we don’t have one.  [30:54]  You’ve done all of the inner work and defined your brand, now how do we attract big brands and become known globally? [39:08] If we become lucky enough to achieve multiple collaborations, what do we do to maintain those relationships? [47:39] Quality always pays off. LuAnn Nigara and Howard A. Lim's Ah-Ha Moments “When you look at successful brands like Apple or Tesla the reason they are so powerful is because their brand is by design.” - Howard A. Lim “ A brand is what others are saying, now what you are saying.” - Howard A. Lim “We create the reality that surrounds us, so why not think big?” - Howard A. Lim More About Howard A. Lim: Business and Brand Architect™ Howard A. Lim designs businesses from the inside-out and has been a disruptive innovator since 1987, when he founded his full-service firm, HOW CREATIVE. Mr. Lim partners with business leaders to create influential, world-class businesses and brands using his unique, proprietary hybrid model of business development, branding, and customer engagement to attain exponential profits, growth, value, and new opportunities quickly and effectively. Representing companies of all types and sizes, including Apple, Disney, Paramount, DreamWorks, Xerox, Oracle, Mattel, and AT&T, Mr. Lim collaborates with clients globally to develop and execute leading, world-class businesses and brands while adding billions of dollars to his clients' profits. Connect with Howard A. Lim Website  LinkedIn Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Live 2023 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #125: Nicole Heymer- How to Brand Your Business. Yes, Again! Do Not Miss This One!!! #317: Nicole Heymer- 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Makes Things Happen #406: Power Talk Friday- Nicole Heymer- You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #701: Kristen Rivoli- New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers  Today With Howard A. Lim:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business. What does it take to build a ten-figure world-class brand? Today, Howard A. Lim of HOW Creative is here to walk us through all of the steps and inner work needed to build a brand on this level. Even if you aren’t striving to be known around the world, Howard’s DNA of a brand that he teaches us will benefit you and take you where you want to be. Howard says that you must clearly define your Brand Architecture at the outset in order to sustain value, growth, and equity. So there’s some inner work to do first. Enjoy!

Pick It Apart

[7:11] Howard shares what we should be thinking about if we want to be a big brand name in the industry.

[13:55] Howard explains the importance of your vision and how it works. 

[17:45] Ideas so we can tap into our philosophy when we don’t have one. 

[30:54]  You’ve done all of the inner work and defined your brand, now how do we attract big brands and become known globally?

[39:08] If we become lucky enough to achieve multiple collaborations, what do we do to maintain those relationships?

[47:39] Quality always pays off.

LuAnn Nigara and Howard A. Lim's Ah-Ha Moments

“When you look at successful brands like Apple or Tesla the reason they are so powerful is because their brand is by design.” - Howard A. Lim

“ A brand is what others are saying, now what you are saying.” - Howard A. Lim

“We create the reality that surrounds us, so why not think big?” - Howard A. Lim

More About Howard A. Lim:

Business and Brand Architect™ Howard A. Lim designs businesses from the inside-out and has been a disruptive innovator since 1987, when he founded his full-service firm, HOW CREATIVE. Mr. Lim partners with business leaders to create influential, world-class businesses and brands using his unique, proprietary hybrid model of business development, branding, and customer engagement to attain exponential profits, growth, value, and new opportunities quickly and effectively. Representing companies of all types and sizes, including Apple, Disney, Paramount, DreamWorks, Xerox, Oracle, Mattel, and AT&T, Mr. Lim collaborates with clients globally to develop and execute leading, world-class businesses and brands while adding billions of dollars to his clients' profits.

Connect with Howard A. Lim

Website 

LinkedIn

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Live 2023

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#125: Nicole Heymer- How to Brand Your Business. Yes, Again! Do Not Miss This One!!!

#317: Nicole Heymer- 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Makes Things Happen

#406: Power Talk Friday- Nicole Heymer- You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#701: Kristen Rivoli- New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers 

]]> 4164 no 862: AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/862-aphrochic-celebrating-the-legacy-of-the-black-family-home Today With Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason of AphroChic—a media and design brand celebrating African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines. Jeanine and Bryan are helping us relearn history as we dive into their latest book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home. This is essential reading, not only for designers, but for everyone, and the conversation we have around it is an important one so that we can be an active part of the change in this country. Pick It Apart [2:48] Janine talks about how the AphroChic blog was inspired by a gap she saw among home décor blogs at the time that left out people of color. [15:20] Bryan explains that design is diverse by nature, and is a human thing to do so it happens in cultures all over the world, yet here in America, Eurocentric design is the only story that has been told for many years, forgetting the work of the rest of the world. [27:27] LuAnn asks Bryan and Janine for some meaningful ways those in the interior design industry can be a part of positive change. [40:37] LuAnn shares that she was called out as a racist, and shares that she later learned that systemic racism conditions you to not notice. This is the work that white people must do, learn the actual history so you see, you know the real truth.  [44:58] Janine and Bryan discuss how their new book is a history book and sociology book hidden within a design book. LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays' Ah-Ha Moments “Every aspect of what we've done has started with seeing a gap, seeing a space where we haven't seen that representation, or that cultural story represented, and then working to fill it in, in some way.” - Jeanine Hays “Design is diverse by nature because the world is diverse by nature.” - Bryan Mason “Racism is itself a, not a single, monolithic, stagnant thing. It is living. It adapts, it changes from one situation to another.” - Bryan Mason “True change happens when you really do understand the reality of what happened in history.” - LuAnn Nigara “Systemic racism doesn’t just condition the oppressed, it conditions the oppressor.” - Bryan Mason More About Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays: Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason are the authors of REMIX: Decorating with Culture, Objects, and Soul. Their media and design brand AphroChic celebrates African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines available through Perigold and 1st Dibs. The couple resides in upstate New York in their lovingly named “AphroFarmhouse.” A powerful, visually stunning celebration of Black-owned homes, featuring inspiring interiors and family histories of notable Black Americans—including chef Alexander Smalls and actor Danielle Brooks. In their new book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home (Clarkson Potter | November 15th, 2022 | $35.00 | Hardcover), Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason explore the Black family home and its role as a haven, heirloom, and cornerstone of Black culture and life. Sixteen gorgeous house tours invite you into the intimate spaces of actors and musicians, the creative studios of artists and curators, the “boss” offices of entrepreneurs and executives, and homes filled with pieces handed down from generations past. The cultural context found throughout AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home sets it apart from other popular coffee-table design texts. With engaging text and beautiful photographs by the late Patrick Cline, this book amplifies many issues currently faced by African Americans, including gentrification, redlining, and more, highlighting the Black Family Home as a missing piece in the narrative of both interior design and American history. Showcasing the amazing diversity of the Black experience through striking art-and-heirloom-filled interiors; stories of family and community; and histories exploring the obstacles Black homeowners have faced for generations, this groundbreaking book honors the journey, recognizes the struggle, and celebrates the joy.  Connect with Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #14: Malene Barnett: Success Secret – Build Relationships #556: Kae Whitaker: #BLM Grace For Lack Of Understanding, Grace for Anger #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry  #732: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business Other Resources Mentioned: Wayfair Collaboration Book: Reluctant Reformer by Robert Allen A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries. These are the things that you need to learn but always wonder where do I go to learn this.  Classes begin May 1st 2023 and registration will open April 2023.  You can see our current roster for all of our 5 week courses, as well as our brand new 3 hour intensives at luannuniversity.com This reminds me of Jude Charles and how he uses genuine storytelling to connect to his clients. This is a thing. Good humans practice this. Relating to their potential clients and wanting them to understand how their services can help them. Jude has developed a course for LU, Storytelling for Creatives. He can teach you how to turn your stories, your experiences into the insights and ideas that help you connect with your potential clients, in a way that is genuine for you and meaningful for them. The registration for Spring 2023 semester opens this April. Just some food for thought. Go to luannuniversity.com to learn more. Tue, 21 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home full 862 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason of AphroChic—a media and design brand celebrating African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine,... Today With Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason of AphroChic—a media and design brand celebrating African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines. Jeanine and Bryan are helping us relearn history as we dive into their latest book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home. This is essential reading, not only for designers, but for everyone, and the conversation we have around it is an important one so that we can be an active part of the change in this country. Pick It Apart [2:48] Janine talks about how the AphroChic blog was inspired by a gap she saw among home décor blogs at the time that left out people of color. [15:20] Bryan explains that design is diverse by nature, and is a human thing to do so it happens in cultures all over the world, yet here in America, Eurocentric design is the only story that has been told for many years, forgetting the work of the rest of the world. [27:27] LuAnn asks Bryan and Janine for some meaningful ways those in the interior design industry can be a part of positive change. [40:37] LuAnn shares that she was called out as a racist, and shares that she later learned that systemic racism conditions you to not notice. This is the work that white people must do, learn the actual history so you see, you know the real truth.  [44:58] Janine and Bryan discuss how their new book is a history book and sociology book hidden within a design book. LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays' Ah-Ha Moments “Every aspect of what we've done has started with seeing a gap, seeing a space where we haven't seen that representation, or that cultural story represented, and then working to fill it in, in some way.” - Jeanine Hays “Design is diverse by nature because the world is diverse by nature.” - Bryan Mason “Racism is itself a, not a single, monolithic, stagnant thing. It is living. It adapts, it changes from one situation to another.” - Bryan Mason “True change happens when you really do understand the reality of what happened in history.” - LuAnn Nigara “Systemic racism doesn’t just condition the oppressed, it conditions the oppressor.” - Bryan Mason More About Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays: Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason are the authors of REMIX: Decorating with Culture, Objects, and Soul. Their media and design brand AphroChic celebrates African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines available through Perigold and 1st Dibs. The couple resides in upstate New York in their lovingly named “AphroFarmhouse.” A powerful, visually stunning celebration of Black-owned homes, featuring inspiring interiors and family histories of notable Black Americans—including chef Alexander Smalls and actor Danielle Brooks. In their new book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home (Clarkson Potter | November 15th, 2022 | $35.00 | Hardcover), Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason explore the Black family home and its role as a haven, heirloom, and cornerstone of Black culture and life. Sixteen gorgeous house tours invite you into the intimate spaces of actors and musicians, the creative studios of artists and curators, the “boss” offices of entrepreneurs and executives, and homes filled with pieces handed down from generations past. The cultural context found throughout AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home sets it apart from other popular coffee-table design texts. With engaging text and beautiful photographs by the late Patrick Cline, this book amplifies many issues currently faced by African Americans, including gentrification, redlining, and more, highlighting the Black Family Home as a missing piece in the narrative of both interior design and American history. Showcasing the amazing diversity of the Black experience through striking art-and-heirloom-filled interiors; stories of family and community; and histories exploring the obstacles Black homeowners have faced for generations, this groundbreaking book honors the journey, recognizes the struggle, and celebrates the joy.  Connect with Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #14: Malene Barnett: Success Secret – Build Relationships #556: Kae Whitaker: #BLM Grace For Lack Of Understanding, Grace for Anger #596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity #816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry  #732: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business Other Resources Mentioned: Wayfair Collaboration Book: Reluctant Reformer by Robert Allen A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries. These are the things that you need to learn but always wonder where do I go to learn this.  Classes begin May 1st 2023 and registration will open April 2023.  You can see our current roster for all of our 5 week courses, as well as our brand new 3 hour intensives at luannuniversity.com This reminds me of Jude Charles and how he uses genuine storytelling to connect to his clients. This is a thing. Good humans practice this. Relating to their potential clients and wanting them to understand how their services can help them. Jude has developed a course for LU, Storytelling for Creatives. He can teach you how to turn your stories, your experiences into the insights and ideas that help you connect with your potential clients, in a way that is genuine for you and meaningful for them. The registration for Spring 2023 semester opens this April. Just some food for thought. Go to luannuniversity.com to learn more. Today With Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason of AphroChic—a media and design brand celebrating African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines. Jeanine and Bryan are helping us relearn history as we dive into their latest book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home. This is essential reading, not only for designers, but for everyone, and the conversation we have around it is an important one so that we can be an active part of the change in this country.

Pick It Apart

[2:48] Janine talks about how the AphroChic blog was inspired by a gap she saw among home décor blogs at the time that left out people of color.

[15:20] Bryan explains that design is diverse by nature, and is a human thing to do so it happens in cultures all over the world, yet here in America, Eurocentric design is the only story that has been told for many years, forgetting the work of the rest of the world.

[27:27] LuAnn asks Bryan and Janine for some meaningful ways those in the interior design industry can be a part of positive change.

[40:37] LuAnn shares that she was called out as a racist, and shares that she later learned that systemic racism conditions you to not notice. This is the work that white people must do, learn the actual history so you see, you know the real truth. 

[44:58] Janine and Bryan discuss how their new book is a history book and sociology book hidden within a design book.

LuAnn Nigara and Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays' Ah-Ha Moments

“Every aspect of what we've done has started with seeing a gap, seeing a space where we haven't seen that representation, or that cultural story represented, and then working to fill it in, in some way.” - Jeanine Hays

“Design is diverse by nature because the world is diverse by nature.” - Bryan Mason

“Racism is itself a, not a single, monolithic, stagnant thing. It is living. It adapts, it changes from one situation to another.” - Bryan Mason

“True change happens when you really do understand the reality of what happened in history.” - LuAnn Nigara

“Systemic racism doesn’t just condition the oppressed, it conditions the oppressor.” - Bryan Mason

More About Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays:

Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason are the authors of REMIX: Decorating with Culture, Objects, and Soul. Their media and design brand AphroChic celebrates African Diaspora cultures through their lifestyle magazine, podcast, and product lines available through Perigold and 1st Dibs. The couple resides in upstate New York in their lovingly named “AphroFarmhouse.”

A powerful, visually stunning celebration of Black-owned homes, featuring inspiring interiors and family histories of notable Black Americans—including chef Alexander Smalls and actor Danielle Brooks.

In their new book, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home (Clarkson Potter | November 15th, 2022 | $35.00 | Hardcover), Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason explore the Black family home and its role as a haven, heirloom, and cornerstone of Black culture and life. Sixteen gorgeous house tours invite you into the intimate spaces of actors and musicians, the creative studios of artists and curators, the “boss” offices of entrepreneurs and executives, and homes filled with pieces handed down from generations past.

The cultural context found throughout AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home sets it apart from other popular coffee-table design texts. With engaging text and beautiful photographs by the late Patrick Cline, this book amplifies many issues currently faced by African Americans, including gentrification, redlining, and more, highlighting the Black Family Home as a missing piece in the narrative of both interior design and American history. Showcasing the amazing diversity of the Black experience through striking art-and-heirloom-filled interiors; stories of family and community; and histories exploring the obstacles Black homeowners have faced for generations, this groundbreaking book honors the journey, recognizes the struggle, and celebrates the joy. 

Connect with Bryan Mason and Jeanine Hays

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#14: Malene Barnett: Success Secret – Build Relationships

#556: Kae Whitaker: #BLM Grace For Lack Of Understanding, Grace for Anger

#596: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level

#573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

#703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

#816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry 

#732: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business

Other Resources Mentioned:

Wayfair Collaboration

Book: Reluctant Reformer by Robert Allen

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries. These are the things that you need to learn but always wonder where do I go to learn this. 

Classes begin May 1st 2023 and registration will open April 2023. 

You can see our current roster for all of our 5 week courses, as well as our brand new 3 hour intensives at luannuniversity.com

This reminds me of Jude Charles and how he uses genuine storytelling to connect to his clients. This is a thing. Good humans practice this. Relating to their potential clients and wanting them to understand how their services can help them. Jude has developed a course for LU, Storytelling for Creatives. He can teach you how to turn your stories, your experiences into the insights and ideas that help you connect with your potential clients, in a way that is genuine for you and meaningful for them. The registration for Spring 2023 semester opens this April. Just some food for thought.

Go to luannuniversity.com to learn more.

]]> 5191 no 861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/861-power-talk-friday-darla-powell-instagram-for-interior-designers Today With Darla Powell: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Darla Powell of Wingnut Social. If you’re an avid listener of the show, you know how much of a social media guru Darla is. Now, she has come out with a course called Instagram for Interior Designers which consists of everything you would learn about Instagram if you were to personally pick her brain. Pick It Apart [10:13] Darla tells us about her new course Instagram for Interior Designers. [23:20] The importance of knowing yourself and your value proposition before tackling your social media strategy. [31:00] Why you need to have your ducks in a row, for example having your website in order.  [35:20] LuAnn and Darla talk about module two of Instagram for Interior Designers. [53:25] Wingnut’s specific impact on client Anne Gillyard’s business grOH! Playrooms. [59:25] How we can get the Instagram for Interior Designers course. LuAnn Nigara and Darla Powell's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s a no-brainer to me. You can’t not be investing in marketing. It’s a key component to business” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to lock in your value proposition before doing anything, otherwise you’re just throwing stuff at the wall and hoping it sticks.” - Darla Powell  “Regardless of what your marketing budget is, start small.” - Darla Powell More About Darla Powell: Darla Powell is more than just an award-winning interior designer, podcast host, social media speaker, and former police detective. She’s also an adept unraveler of marketing secrets. Her down-to-earth style delivers smart, actionable information that’s relevant to real business owners—because she is one. Topics range from social media mastery (what really engages followers—it’s probably not what you think) to how to build your brand from the ground up (how did she go from retired cop to one of the top five interior designers in Miami in less than sixteen months—secrets will be revealed). Connect with Darla Powell Wingnut Academy: Instagram for Interior Designers Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Other Shows Mentioned: #203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Darla Powell and Wingut Academy. Check out all the details on https://wingnutsocial.com/instagram-for-interior-designers/ Fri, 17 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers full 861 LuAnn Nigara Today With Darla Powell: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Darla Powell of Wingnut Social. If you’re an avid listener of the show, you know how much of a social media guru Darla is. Now, she has come out with a course called Instagram... Today With Darla Powell: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Darla Powell of Wingnut Social. If you’re an avid listener of the show, you know how much of a social media guru Darla is. Now, she has come out with a course called Instagram for Interior Designers which consists of everything you would learn about Instagram if you were to personally pick her brain. Pick It Apart [10:13] Darla tells us about her new course Instagram for Interior Designers. [23:20] The importance of knowing yourself and your value proposition before tackling your social media strategy. [31:00] Why you need to have your ducks in a row, for example having your website in order.  [35:20] LuAnn and Darla talk about module two of Instagram for Interior Designers. [53:25] Wingnut’s specific impact on client Anne Gillyard’s business grOH! Playrooms. [59:25] How we can get the Instagram for Interior Designers course. LuAnn Nigara and Darla Powell's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s a no-brainer to me. You can’t not be investing in marketing. It’s a key component to business” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to lock in your value proposition before doing anything, otherwise you’re just throwing stuff at the wall and hoping it sticks.” - Darla Powell  “Regardless of what your marketing budget is, start small.” - Darla Powell More About Darla Powell: Darla Powell is more than just an award-winning interior designer, podcast host, social media speaker, and former police detective. She’s also an adept unraveler of marketing secrets. Her down-to-earth style delivers smart, actionable information that’s relevant to real business owners—because she is one. Topics range from social media mastery (what really engages followers—it’s probably not what you think) to how to build your brand from the ground up (how did she go from retired cop to one of the top five interior designers in Miami in less than sixteen months—secrets will be revealed). Connect with Darla Powell Wingnut Academy: Instagram for Interior Designers Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Other Shows Mentioned: #203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show is sponsored by Darla Powell and Wingut Academy. Check out all the details on https://wingnutsocial.com/instagram-for-interior-designers/ Today With Darla Powell:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Darla Powell of Wingnut Social. If you’re an avid listener of the show, you know how much of a social media guru Darla is. Now, she has come out with a course called Instagram for Interior Designers which consists of everything you would learn about Instagram if you were to personally pick her brain.

Pick It Apart

[10:13] Darla tells us about her new course Instagram for Interior Designers.

[23:20] The importance of knowing yourself and your value proposition before tackling your social media strategy.

[31:00] Why you need to have your ducks in a row, for example having your website in order. 

[35:20] LuAnn and Darla talk about module two of Instagram for Interior Designers.

[53:25] Wingnut’s specific impact on client Anne Gillyard’s business grOH! Playrooms.

[59:25] How we can get the Instagram for Interior Designers course.

LuAnn Nigara and Darla Powell's Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s a no-brainer to me. You can’t not be investing in marketing. It’s a key component to business” - LuAnn Nigara

“You have to lock in your value proposition before doing anything, otherwise you’re just throwing stuff at the wall and hoping it sticks.” - Darla Powell 

“Regardless of what your marketing budget is, start small.” - Darla Powell

More About Darla Powell:

Darla Powell is more than just an award-winning interior designer, podcast host, social media speaker, and former police detective.

She’s also an adept unraveler of marketing secrets.

Her down-to-earth style delivers smart, actionable information that’s relevant to real business owners—because she is one.

Topics range from social media mastery (what really engages followers—it’s probably not what you think) to how to build your brand from the ground up (how did she go from retired cop to one of the top five interior designers in Miami in less than sixteen months—secrets will be revealed).

Connect with Darla Powell

Wingnut Academy: Instagram for Interior Designers

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Other Shows Mentioned:

#203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

#330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

#601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show is sponsored by Darla Powell and Wingut Academy. Check out all the details on https://wingnutsocial.com/instagram-for-interior-designers/

]]> 3971 no 860: Antonio Deloatch: Believe in Yourself, Believe in Relationships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/860-antonio-deloatch-believe-in-yourself-believe-in-relationships Today With Antonio Deloatch Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What’s the difference between a designer who thrives in business and one who doesn’t? It isn’t talent. It isn’t passion. It isn’t motivation. It’s simply the ability to commit and get things done. My guest today, Antonio Deloatch Jr, is one of those real action-takers—someone who I just have no doubt is going to be big and successful, not just as a designer, but at whatever he puts his mind to. It’s a combination of his outlook, his attitude, and his ability to put one foot in front of the other and make it happen. Today, he’s sharing his story and insights with us. Pick It Apart [3:39] Antonio shares his experience at the Black Interior Designer’s networking event. [7:30] Antonio discusses how grassroots marketing worked for him.  [21:00] LuAnn and Antonio talk about marketing opportunities that can make a difference.  [25:11] Antonio shares his “why” and the pillars of his business. [28:47] LuAnn and Antonio talk about how to make things happen for your business. LuAnn Nigara and Antonio Deloatch's Ah-Ha Moments “All you need is one. One good project could pay for my marketing plan for the year. It’s a low barrier to entry. If that’s $600 on pretty postcards, it’s not that expensive but could have a really big return.” - Antonio Deloatch “There’s always good or bad in the era that you’re doing business. Just get over it, get on with it, and do business in your era.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Antonio Deloatch: I’m a New Yorker with a love for the California sun… Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds.  I get up every single day to change the way people live through art, light and design. For me, taking a non functional space and transforming it into the most popular room in the home, is a dream come true. I have tackled projects ranging from studio apartments in Hong Kong to million dollar estates in the Hamptons to sprawling ranch homes in Ojai CA. Each project is an exploration of you and how you will live in the space.  My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer. Connect with Antonio Deloatch Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 14 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Antonio Deloatch: Believe in Yourself, Believe in Relationships full 860 LuAnn Nigara Today With Antonio Deloatch Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What’s the difference between a designer who thrives in business and one who doesn’t? It isn’t talent. It isn’t passion. It isn’t motivation. It’s simply the ability to... Today With Antonio Deloatch Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What’s the difference between a designer who thrives in business and one who doesn’t? It isn’t talent. It isn’t passion. It isn’t motivation. It’s simply the ability to commit and get things done. My guest today, Antonio Deloatch Jr, is one of those real action-takers—someone who I just have no doubt is going to be big and successful, not just as a designer, but at whatever he puts his mind to. It’s a combination of his outlook, his attitude, and his ability to put one foot in front of the other and make it happen. Today, he’s sharing his story and insights with us. Pick It Apart [3:39] Antonio shares his experience at the Black Interior Designer’s networking event. [7:30] Antonio discusses how grassroots marketing worked for him.  [21:00] LuAnn and Antonio talk about marketing opportunities that can make a difference.  [25:11] Antonio shares his “why” and the pillars of his business. [28:47] LuAnn and Antonio talk about how to make things happen for your business. LuAnn Nigara and Antonio Deloatch's Ah-Ha Moments “All you need is one. One good project could pay for my marketing plan for the year. It’s a low barrier to entry. If that’s $600 on pretty postcards, it’s not that expensive but could have a really big return.” - Antonio Deloatch “There’s always good or bad in the era that you’re doing business. Just get over it, get on with it, and do business in your era.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Antonio Deloatch: I’m a New Yorker with a love for the California sun… Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds.  I get up every single day to change the way people live through art, light and design. For me, taking a non functional space and transforming it into the most popular room in the home, is a dream come true. I have tackled projects ranging from studio apartments in Hong Kong to million dollar estates in the Hamptons to sprawling ranch homes in Ojai CA. Each project is an exploration of you and how you will live in the space.  My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer. Connect with Antonio Deloatch Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today With Antonio Deloatch

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What’s the difference between a designer who thrives in business and one who doesn’t? It isn’t talent. It isn’t passion. It isn’t motivation. It’s simply the ability to commit and get things done. My guest today, Antonio Deloatch Jr, is one of those real action-takers—someone who I just have no doubt is going to be big and successful, not just as a designer, but at whatever he puts his mind to. It’s a combination of his outlook, his attitude, and his ability to put one foot in front of the other and make it happen. Today, he’s sharing his story and insights with us.

Pick It Apart

[3:39] Antonio shares his experience at the Black Interior Designer’s networking event.

[7:30] Antonio discusses how grassroots marketing worked for him. 

[21:00] LuAnn and Antonio talk about marketing opportunities that can make a difference. 

[25:11] Antonio shares his “why” and the pillars of his business.

[28:47] LuAnn and Antonio talk about how to make things happen for your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Antonio Deloatch's Ah-Ha Moments

“All you need is one. One good project could pay for my marketing plan for the year. It’s a low barrier to entry. If that’s $600 on pretty postcards, it’s not that expensive but could have a really big return.” - Antonio Deloatch

“There’s always good or bad in the era that you’re doing business. Just get over it, get on with it, and do business in your era.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Antonio Deloatch:

I’m a New Yorker with a love for the California sun…

Living in New York & Los Angeles with a global state of mind equals the best of both worlds. 

I get up every single day to change the way people live through art, light and design. For me, taking a non functional space and transforming it into the most popular room in the home, is a dream come true. I have tackled projects ranging from studio apartments in Hong Kong to million dollar estates in the Hamptons to sprawling ranch homes in Ojai CA. Each project is an exploration of you and how you will live in the space. 

My love for décor and design started early. I realized that I wanted to use my talents outside of the sales floor or cubicle. I started my design business in 2014 and my main goal still to this day is to bring quality, as well as affordable designs to any consumer.

Connect with Antonio Deloatch

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough

#06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 3850 no 859: Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/859-power-talk-friday-robyn-white-using-your-website-to-market-to-the-luxury-interior-design-client Today With Robyn White: We all know that marketing matters. But so often when I’m talking to newer designers, I realize that marketing is misunderstood—especially when it comes to the luxury client.  My guest today, Robyn White, understands that. Today, she’s here to talk about what marketing really is, how marketing for the luxury client is unique, and how to incorporate your personality and story into your messaging. Pick It Apart [2:26] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on what marketing really means. [6:54] Robyn explains the difference in marketing to a luxury client. [15:54] LuAnn and Robyn discuss how important it is for your website to show what makes you unique.  [27:43] Robyn explains how to convey luxury through your website.  [43:14] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on how important your website is. LuAnn Nigara and Robyn White's Ah-Ha Moments “The more marketing you do, the more you’ll start to realize that people don’t care that much about what you’re trying to sell to them, because it’s not about them. When you turn the tables and make your marketing about how you help them and what problems you solve, they become interested.” - Robyn White “If I can read a page on your website and I can substitute any person’s name for this because there’s nothing so specific that is only you, then you haven’t done your job in explaining who you are or what it’s like to work with you.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Robyn White: Robyn White is the owner and founder of RDW Design Studio, a boutique website design studio located on Cape Cod, MA. Robyn offers a refined website design experience for clients who value quality and want a strategic, sophisticated and simple website designed so they can book more premium clients. Robyn specializes in helping interior designers, architects, stagers and organizers elevate their website so it reflects the high-quality work they provide and so their business has the online home it deserves. Through her impactful and strategic website design, she positions her clients as the premium choice by making the right first impression online. She helps her busy clients go from overwhelmed to overjoyed with their websites by taking care of all the techie stuff without the techie talk. Through her supportive, streamlined and stress-free design process, Robyn designs websites that are not just beautiful, but allow her clients to show up online with confidence and attract their ideal clients. Connect with Robyn White Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Get a Freebie! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #841: Power Talk Friday - Nancy Ganzekaufer - The Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Fri, 10 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client full 859 LuAnn Nigara Today With Robyn White: We all know that marketing matters. But so often when I’m talking to newer designers, I realize that marketing is misunderstood—especially when it comes to the luxury client.  My guest today, Robyn White, understands... Today With Robyn White: We all know that marketing matters. But so often when I’m talking to newer designers, I realize that marketing is misunderstood—especially when it comes to the luxury client.  My guest today, Robyn White, understands that. Today, she’s here to talk about what marketing really is, how marketing for the luxury client is unique, and how to incorporate your personality and story into your messaging. Pick It Apart [2:26] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on what marketing really means. [6:54] Robyn explains the difference in marketing to a luxury client. [15:54] LuAnn and Robyn discuss how important it is for your website to show what makes you unique.  [27:43] Robyn explains how to convey luxury through your website.  [43:14] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on how important your website is. LuAnn Nigara and Robyn White's Ah-Ha Moments “The more marketing you do, the more you’ll start to realize that people don’t care that much about what you’re trying to sell to them, because it’s not about them. When you turn the tables and make your marketing about how you help them and what problems you solve, they become interested.” - Robyn White “If I can read a page on your website and I can substitute any person’s name for this because there’s nothing so specific that is only you, then you haven’t done your job in explaining who you are or what it’s like to work with you.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Robyn White: Robyn White is the owner and founder of RDW Design Studio, a boutique website design studio located on Cape Cod, MA. Robyn offers a refined website design experience for clients who value quality and want a strategic, sophisticated and simple website designed so they can book more premium clients. Robyn specializes in helping interior designers, architects, stagers and organizers elevate their website so it reflects the high-quality work they provide and so their business has the online home it deserves. Through her impactful and strategic website design, she positions her clients as the premium choice by making the right first impression online. She helps her busy clients go from overwhelmed to overjoyed with their websites by taking care of all the techie stuff without the techie talk. Through her supportive, streamlined and stress-free design process, Robyn designs websites that are not just beautiful, but allow her clients to show up online with confidence and attract their ideal clients. Connect with Robyn White Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Get a Freebie! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #841: Power Talk Friday - Nancy Ganzekaufer - The Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Today With Robyn White:

We all know that marketing matters. But so often when I’m talking to newer designers, I realize that marketing is misunderstood—especially when it comes to the luxury client. 

My guest today, Robyn White, understands that. Today, she’s here to talk about what marketing really is, how marketing for the luxury client is unique, and how to incorporate your personality and story into your messaging.

Pick It Apart

[2:26] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on what marketing really means.

[6:54] Robyn explains the difference in marketing to a luxury client.

[15:54] LuAnn and Robyn discuss how important it is for your website to show what makes you unique. 

[27:43] Robyn explains how to convey luxury through your website. 

[43:14] Robyn and LuAnn reflect on how important your website is.

LuAnn Nigara and Robyn White's Ah-Ha Moments

“The more marketing you do, the more you’ll start to realize that people don’t care that much about what you’re trying to sell to them, because it’s not about them. When you turn the tables and make your marketing about how you help them and what problems you solve, they become interested.” - Robyn White

“If I can read a page on your website and I can substitute any person’s name for this because there’s nothing so specific that is only you, then you haven’t done your job in explaining who you are or what it’s like to work with you.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Robyn White:

Robyn White is the owner and founder of RDW Design Studio, a boutique website design studio located on Cape Cod, MA. Robyn offers a refined website design experience for clients who value quality and want a strategic, sophisticated and simple website designed so they can book more premium clients.

Robyn specializes in helping interior designers, architects, stagers and organizers elevate their website so it reflects the high-quality work they provide and so their business has the online home it deserves. Through her impactful and strategic website design, she positions her clients as the premium choice by making the right first impression online.

She helps her busy clients go from overwhelmed to overjoyed with their websites by taking care of all the techie stuff without the techie talk. Through her supportive, streamlined and stress-free design process, Robyn designs websites that are not just beautiful, but allow her clients to show up online with confidence and attract their ideal clients.

Connect with Robyn White

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Get a Freebie!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#159: Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#841: Power Talk Friday - Nancy Ganzekaufer - The Profit Insiders for Interior Designers.

]]> 3532 no 858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/858-veronica-solomon-cultivating-self-awareness-as-a-superpower Today With Veronica Solomon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Veronica Solomon of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is an award-winning designer and business mentor who believes that knowing yourself, understanding your convictions, and trusting your purpose can impact your business for the best. She has turned self-awareness into her superpower, and she is here today to encourage you to do the same so that you can run your business with intention. Pick It Apart [6:14] Veronica shares that competition has never been something she has focused on in her business. [13:01] Veronica talks about how she feels like she was predestined to become an interior designer, and because of that is is called to always show up as her true, authentic self. [15:29] LuAnn and Veronica discuss what it means to develop a signature style.  [23:55] Veronica shares why she will never complain about a client. [38:03] LuAnn and Veronica discuss the importance of having your picture on your website because potential clients want to know who you are. [45:42] Veronica and LuAnn talk about why it’s so important to address the business side of your business—to tighten up the present tktk of your business and also as you look to the future. LuAnn Nigara and Veronica Solomon's Ah-Ha Moments “There's no such thing as competition. You are who you are, and your client wants you, and that designer next to you can have your same process your same contract, and you're just not the same people.” -LuAnn Nigara  “Be who you are, who you are meant to be.” – Veronica Solomon “I will never complain about a client—no matter how bad it gets, no matter what they do—I'm not going to complain about them. Not to anyone or to myself.” – Veronica Solomon More About Veronica Solomon: Veronica brings over 13 years of expertise as leader of the Casa Vilora Interiors team. She has won many prestigious awards and has been featured in numerous publications and considered a design influencer and design business mentor. Her design point of view can be summed up as eclectic, classic, bold, timeless wit a touch of whimsy. The spaces she creates are known for their eclectic vibe and masterful use of color, pattern mix and textures. They are multi-layered and collected, blending classic with modern, old with new, high with low and a bold use of color, pattern, texture in ways that excite. Veronica believes that each space should tell the story of the people who live there and should be their ideal version of luxurious living; whatever luxury means to them. Connect with Veronica Solomon Website Instagram Mentorship What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #50: Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook AWDB #830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB #488: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence WTFP #143: Vita Vygovska: Market to Interior Designers by Building Relationships AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website AWDB #22: Fred Berns: How To Create a Killer Bio AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns — Own Your “Only” Word & Tips To Discover Yours Tue, 07 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower full 858 LuAnn Nigara Today With Veronica Solomon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Veronica Solomon of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is an award-winning designer and business mentor who believes that knowing yourself, understanding your... Today With Veronica Solomon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Veronica Solomon of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is an award-winning designer and business mentor who believes that knowing yourself, understanding your convictions, and trusting your purpose can impact your business for the best. She has turned self-awareness into her superpower, and she is here today to encourage you to do the same so that you can run your business with intention. Pick It Apart [6:14] Veronica shares that competition has never been something she has focused on in her business. [13:01] Veronica talks about how she feels like she was predestined to become an interior designer, and because of that is is called to always show up as her true, authentic self. [15:29] LuAnn and Veronica discuss what it means to develop a signature style.  [23:55] Veronica shares why she will never complain about a client. [38:03] LuAnn and Veronica discuss the importance of having your picture on your website because potential clients want to know who you are. [45:42] Veronica and LuAnn talk about why it’s so important to address the business side of your business—to tighten up the present tktk of your business and also as you look to the future. LuAnn Nigara and Veronica Solomon's Ah-Ha Moments “There's no such thing as competition. You are who you are, and your client wants you, and that designer next to you can have your same process your same contract, and you're just not the same people.” -LuAnn Nigara  “Be who you are, who you are meant to be.” – Veronica Solomon “I will never complain about a client—no matter how bad it gets, no matter what they do—I'm not going to complain about them. Not to anyone or to myself.” – Veronica Solomon More About Veronica Solomon: Veronica brings over 13 years of expertise as leader of the Casa Vilora Interiors team. She has won many prestigious awards and has been featured in numerous publications and considered a design influencer and design business mentor. Her design point of view can be summed up as eclectic, classic, bold, timeless wit a touch of whimsy. The spaces she creates are known for their eclectic vibe and masterful use of color, pattern mix and textures. They are multi-layered and collected, blending classic with modern, old with new, high with low and a bold use of color, pattern, texture in ways that excite. Veronica believes that each space should tell the story of the people who live there and should be their ideal version of luxurious living; whatever luxury means to them. Connect with Veronica Solomon Website Instagram Mentorship What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB #50: Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook AWDB #830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB #488: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence WTFP #143: Vita Vygovska: Market to Interior Designers by Building Relationships AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website AWDB #22: Fred Berns: How To Create a Killer Bio AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns — Own Your “Only” Word & Tips To Discover Yours Today With Veronica Solomon:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Veronica Solomon of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is an award-winning designer and business mentor who believes that knowing yourself, understanding your convictions, and trusting your purpose can impact your business for the best. She has turned self-awareness into her superpower, and she is here today to encourage you to do the same so that you can run your business with intention.

Pick It Apart

[6:14] Veronica shares that competition has never been something she has focused on in her business.

[13:01] Veronica talks about how she feels like she was predestined to become an interior designer, and because of that is is called to always show up as her true, authentic self.

[15:29] LuAnn and Veronica discuss what it means to develop a signature style. 

[23:55] Veronica shares why she will never complain about a client.

[38:03] LuAnn and Veronica discuss the importance of having your picture on your website because potential clients want to know who you are.

[45:42] Veronica and LuAnn talk about why it’s so important to address the business side of your business—to tighten up the present tktk of your business and also as you look to the future.

LuAnn Nigara and Veronica Solomon's Ah-Ha Moments

“There's no such thing as competition. You are who you are, and your client wants you, and that designer next to you can have your same process your same contract, and you're just not the same people.” -LuAnn Nigara

 “Be who you are, who you are meant to be.” – Veronica Solomon

“I will never complain about a client—no matter how bad it gets, no matter what they do—I'm not going to complain about them. Not to anyone or to myself.” – Veronica Solomon

More About Veronica Solomon:

Veronica brings over 13 years of expertise as leader of the Casa Vilora Interiors team. She has won many prestigious awards and has been featured in numerous publications and considered a design influencer and design business mentor. Her design point of view can be summed up as eclectic, classic, bold, timeless wit a touch of whimsy. The spaces she creates are known for their eclectic vibe and masterful use of color, pattern mix and textures. They are multi-layered and collected, blending classic with modern, old with new, high with low and a bold use of color, pattern, texture in ways that excite.

Veronica believes that each space should tell the story of the people who live there and should be their ideal version of luxurious living; whatever luxury means to them.

Connect with Veronica Solomon

Website

Instagram

Mentorship

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #50: Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook AWDB #830 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business AWDB #488: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence WTFP #143: Vita Vygovska: Market to Interior Designers by Building Relationships AWDB #819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website AWDB #22: Fred Berns: How To Create a Killer Bio AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns — Own Your “Only” Word & Tips To Discover Yours]]> 3813 no 857: Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program - Do NOT Skip This Episode! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/857-power-talk-friday-shannon-lopez-the-erc-program-do-not-skip-this-episode Today With Shannon Lopez: You’ve heard of the PPP, but did you know that there’s another government program waiting to give you as much, if not more money back? It’s called the ERC. Today, Shannon Lopez breaks down the program, who it’s for, how you can take advantage of it, and the deadlines you need to know. Pick It Apart [8:55] Shannon breaks down what the ERC is and why it matters. [13:53] LuAnn and Shannon discuss the challenges of running a business at the beginning of the pandemic.  [31:16] Shannon explains who qualifies for the ERC.  [44:00] Shannon walks us through how her company can help.  [53:53] Shannon and LuAnn talk about why this program isn’t more well-known. LuAnn Nigara and Shannon Lopez's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s so incredibly important. We’re really lucky that we have someone like you that really understands it and has spent the last two and a half years pivoting her business in order to become an expert at this.” - LuAnn Nigara “This program is as financially impactful, if not more, than the PPP for most business owners. Whatever amount of money you got from the PPP, there’s a good chance that you will get that much, if not more, for this program.” - Shannon Lopez More About Shannon Lopez: Shannon Lopez is co-founder of ‘Be Better ERC Consulting’ and ‘Be Better Salon Accelerator’, a salon entrepreneur consulting firm. She’s a small business owner and an accomplished CFO with more than 25 years of experience. As a business owner, consultant and educator, Shannon along with her business partner, Naomi Prusinski, are always looking for ways to create better results for their businesses and clients. When they first learned about the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), they conducted extensive research and have now helped hundreds of companies receive tens of millions of dollars in refunds so far! Connect with Shannon Lopez Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 03 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program - Do NOT Skip This Episode! full 857 LuAnn Nigara Today With Shannon Lopez: You’ve heard of the PPP, but did you know that there’s another government program waiting to give you as much, if not more money back? It’s called the ERC. Today, Shannon Lopez breaks down the program, who it’s for,... Today With Shannon Lopez: You’ve heard of the PPP, but did you know that there’s another government program waiting to give you as much, if not more money back? It’s called the ERC. Today, Shannon Lopez breaks down the program, who it’s for, how you can take advantage of it, and the deadlines you need to know. Pick It Apart [8:55] Shannon breaks down what the ERC is and why it matters. [13:53] LuAnn and Shannon discuss the challenges of running a business at the beginning of the pandemic.  [31:16] Shannon explains who qualifies for the ERC.  [44:00] Shannon walks us through how her company can help.  [53:53] Shannon and LuAnn talk about why this program isn’t more well-known. LuAnn Nigara and Shannon Lopez's Ah-Ha Moments “It’s so incredibly important. We’re really lucky that we have someone like you that really understands it and has spent the last two and a half years pivoting her business in order to become an expert at this.” - LuAnn Nigara “This program is as financially impactful, if not more, than the PPP for most business owners. Whatever amount of money you got from the PPP, there’s a good chance that you will get that much, if not more, for this program.” - Shannon Lopez More About Shannon Lopez: Shannon Lopez is co-founder of ‘Be Better ERC Consulting’ and ‘Be Better Salon Accelerator’, a salon entrepreneur consulting firm. She’s a small business owner and an accomplished CFO with more than 25 years of experience. As a business owner, consultant and educator, Shannon along with her business partner, Naomi Prusinski, are always looking for ways to create better results for their businesses and clients. When they first learned about the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), they conducted extensive research and have now helped hundreds of companies receive tens of millions of dollars in refunds so far! Connect with Shannon Lopez Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Shannon Lopez:

You’ve heard of the PPP, but did you know that there’s another government program waiting to give you as much, if not more money back? It’s called the ERC. Today, Shannon Lopez breaks down the program, who it’s for, how you can take advantage of it, and the deadlines you need to know.

Pick It Apart

[8:55] Shannon breaks down what the ERC is and why it matters.

[13:53] LuAnn and Shannon discuss the challenges of running a business at the beginning of the pandemic. 

[31:16] Shannon explains who qualifies for the ERC. 

[44:00] Shannon walks us through how her company can help. 

[53:53] Shannon and LuAnn talk about why this program isn’t more well-known.

LuAnn Nigara and Shannon Lopez's Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s so incredibly important. We’re really lucky that we have someone like you that really understands it and has spent the last two and a half years pivoting her business in order to become an expert at this.” - LuAnn Nigara

“This program is as financially impactful, if not more, than the PPP for most business owners. Whatever amount of money you got from the PPP, there’s a good chance that you will get that much, if not more, for this program.” - Shannon Lopez

More About Shannon Lopez:

Shannon Lopez is co-founder of ‘Be Better ERC Consulting’ and ‘Be Better Salon Accelerator’, a salon entrepreneur consulting firm. She’s a small business owner and an accomplished CFO with more than 25 years of experience.

As a business owner, consultant and educator, Shannon along with her business partner, Naomi Prusinski, are always looking for ways to create better results for their businesses and clients.

When they first learned about the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), they conducted extensive research and have now helped hundreds of companies receive tens of millions of dollars in refunds so far!

Connect with Shannon Lopez

Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4255 no 856: Enrique Crespo: Describing His Type-A Personality Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/856-enrique-crespo-describing-his-type-a-personality-mindset Today With Enrique Crespo: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Enrique Crespo of Crespo Design Group. Enrique is here to share how developing a Type A personality approach can ensure success, especially in an industry as creative as interior design. Type A personalities are organized, ambitious, and like to have an agenda. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be one to become one. Over the years, Enrique has refined this mindset and honed the skills to guide and grow his firm, and he shares those stories with us today. Pick It Apart [1:57] Enrique explains how Type A personality traits can help maintain a well-run business through organization, which allows you to offer a higher level of luxury service. [8:50] LuAnn and Enrique discuss how he invested in his business by hiring someone who specializes in interior design processes, and how he tailored that structure to the specific needs of his firm, along with other ways he invests in his business. [10:30] Enrique talks about how he has hired several senior designers that all have different personality types and he tries to match them with clients and projects accordingly. [19:01] Enrique and LuAnn discuss working with luxury clients and Enrique explains why listening and understanding, yet maintaining authority as the designer is important, and how he learned those lessons the hard way. [28:25] Enrique reveals how he exposes his team to luxury and gives them opportunities to experience luxury so they can better understand the level of service they are expected to maintain. LuAnn Nigara and Enrique Crespo's Ah-Ha Moments “Creativity happens in the gray areas. However, finances happen in black and white. And you need to know how to manage your finances to run a successful business.” - Enrique Crespo “When you're dealing with people's money in their homes, it gets really personal.” - Enrique Crespo “When you swim in that luxury lane, to your point, that's what the client expects. And if you don't deliver, there's another firm that can do it for them.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Enrique Crespo: At a young age, Enrique was inspired by his favorite uncle, Enrique Gutierrez, a prolific architect who was the first to bring Cuban-inspired architecture to Miami. His home was filled with antiques, African artifacts, modern pieces and an incredible collection of contemporary Latin American art. It was a collected home, now a hallmark of Enrique’s personal taste. Originally from South Tampa, Enrique graduated from the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design with an emphasis in art history and architectural history. Studying architectural history deepened Enrique’s knowledge of design and broadened his approach to his craft. Art and architecture through the ages, and its influence on design and space, is ingrained in his work. In 1999, Enrique launched Crespo Design Group in his hometown of Tampa, which soon became the sought-after design firm for discerning clients in Florida’s most desirable neighborhoods. The Group made its mark on everything from high-profile beach properties, to island escapes to mountain retreats. In 2021, he expanded his practice to Los Angeles to better serve his clients on the West Coast. Enrique built his firm to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience for his clients. He is a collaborator who prides himself on listening to clients, understanding their needs, and delivering the lifestyle they have always imagined. Every detail is intentional and chosen to reflect the style, spirit and nature of the client. Whether the goal is eclectic modern estate or sophisticated mountain retreat, Enrique is passionate about exceptional design. An avid equestrian, Enrique can often be found at the barn at the Tampa Yacht Club and Country Club riding horses or at Stovall House when he’s not designing or traveling. Enrique currently sits on the board of the Tampa Museum and is Chair of the Collections Committee; the board of the Henry B. Plant Museum; the Board of Tampa Bay Businesses for Community and the Arts; and is Chair of the Tampa Museum of Art's CITY Fashion Event. Enrique spends his time between Tampa and Los Angeles. He shares his home in Tampa with his husband Russell and their two French Bulldogs, Coco and Josephine. Connect with Enrique Crespo Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm #844: John McClain: Turn Failure Into Success #849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #578: Lori Morris: When Working With the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! #678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes Tue, 28 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Enrique Crespo: Describing His Type-A Personality Mindset full 856 LuAnn Nigara Today With Enrique Crespo: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Enrique Crespo of Crespo Design Group. Enrique is here to share how developing a Type A personality approach can ensure success, especially in an industry as... Today With Enrique Crespo: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Enrique Crespo of Crespo Design Group. Enrique is here to share how developing a Type A personality approach can ensure success, especially in an industry as creative as interior design. Type A personalities are organized, ambitious, and like to have an agenda. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be one to become one. Over the years, Enrique has refined this mindset and honed the skills to guide and grow his firm, and he shares those stories with us today. Pick It Apart [1:57] Enrique explains how Type A personality traits can help maintain a well-run business through organization, which allows you to offer a higher level of luxury service. [8:50] LuAnn and Enrique discuss how he invested in his business by hiring someone who specializes in interior design processes, and how he tailored that structure to the specific needs of his firm, along with other ways he invests in his business. [10:30] Enrique talks about how he has hired several senior designers that all have different personality types and he tries to match them with clients and projects accordingly. [19:01] Enrique and LuAnn discuss working with luxury clients and Enrique explains why listening and understanding, yet maintaining authority as the designer is important, and how he learned those lessons the hard way. [28:25] Enrique reveals how he exposes his team to luxury and gives them opportunities to experience luxury so they can better understand the level of service they are expected to maintain. LuAnn Nigara and Enrique Crespo's Ah-Ha Moments “Creativity happens in the gray areas. However, finances happen in black and white. And you need to know how to manage your finances to run a successful business.” - Enrique Crespo “When you're dealing with people's money in their homes, it gets really personal.” - Enrique Crespo “When you swim in that luxury lane, to your point, that's what the client expects. And if you don't deliver, there's another firm that can do it for them.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Enrique Crespo: At a young age, Enrique was inspired by his favorite uncle, Enrique Gutierrez, a prolific architect who was the first to bring Cuban-inspired architecture to Miami. His home was filled with antiques, African artifacts, modern pieces and an incredible collection of contemporary Latin American art. It was a collected home, now a hallmark of Enrique’s personal taste. Originally from South Tampa, Enrique graduated from the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design with an emphasis in art history and architectural history. Studying architectural history deepened Enrique’s knowledge of design and broadened his approach to his craft. Art and architecture through the ages, and its influence on design and space, is ingrained in his work. In 1999, Enrique launched Crespo Design Group in his hometown of Tampa, which soon became the sought-after design firm for discerning clients in Florida’s most desirable neighborhoods. The Group made its mark on everything from high-profile beach properties, to island escapes to mountain retreats. In 2021, he expanded his practice to Los Angeles to better serve his clients on the West Coast. Enrique built his firm to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience for his clients. He is a collaborator who prides himself on listening to clients, understanding their needs, and delivering the lifestyle they have always imagined. Every detail is intentional and chosen to reflect the style, spirit and nature of the client. Whether the goal is eclectic modern estate or sophisticated mountain retreat, Enrique is passionate about exceptional design. An avid equestrian, Enrique can often be found at the barn at the Tampa Yacht Club and Country Club riding horses or at Stovall House when he’s not designing or traveling. Enrique currently sits on the board of the Tampa Museum and is Chair of the Collections Committee; the board of the Henry B. Plant Museum; the Board of Tampa Bay Businesses for Community and the Arts; and is Chair of the Tampa Museum of Art's CITY Fashion Event. Enrique spends his time between Tampa and Los Angeles. He shares his home in Tampa with his husband Russell and their two French Bulldogs, Coco and Josephine. Connect with Enrique Crespo Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm #844: John McClain: Turn Failure Into Success #849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #578: Lori Morris: When Working With the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! #678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes Today With Enrique Crespo:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Enrique Crespo of Crespo Design Group. Enrique is here to share how developing a Type A personality approach can ensure success, especially in an industry as creative as interior design. Type A personalities are organized, ambitious, and like to have an agenda. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be one to become one. Over the years, Enrique has refined this mindset and honed the skills to guide and grow his firm, and he shares those stories with us today.

Pick It Apart

[1:57] Enrique explains how Type A personality traits can help maintain a well-run business through organization, which allows you to offer a higher level of luxury service.

[8:50] LuAnn and Enrique discuss how he invested in his business by hiring someone who specializes in interior design processes, and how he tailored that structure to the specific needs of his firm, along with other ways he invests in his business.

[10:30] Enrique talks about how he has hired several senior designers that all have different personality types and he tries to match them with clients and projects accordingly.

[19:01] Enrique and LuAnn discuss working with luxury clients and Enrique explains why listening and understanding, yet maintaining authority as the designer is important, and how he learned those lessons the hard way.

[28:25] Enrique reveals how he exposes his team to luxury and gives them opportunities to experience luxury so they can better understand the level of service they are expected to maintain.

LuAnn Nigara and Enrique Crespo's Ah-Ha Moments

“Creativity happens in the gray areas. However, finances happen in black and white. And you need to know how to manage your finances to run a successful business.” - Enrique Crespo

“When you're dealing with people's money in their homes, it gets really personal.” - Enrique Crespo

“When you swim in that luxury lane, to your point, that's what the client expects. And if you don't deliver, there's another firm that can do it for them.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Enrique Crespo:

At a young age, Enrique was inspired by his favorite uncle, Enrique Gutierrez, a prolific architect who was the first to bring Cuban-inspired architecture to Miami. His home was filled with antiques, African artifacts, modern pieces and an incredible collection of contemporary Latin American art. It was a collected home, now a hallmark of Enrique’s personal taste.

Originally from South Tampa, Enrique graduated from the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design with an emphasis in art history and architectural history. Studying architectural history deepened Enrique’s knowledge of design and broadened his approach to his craft. Art and architecture through the ages, and its influence on design and space, is ingrained in his work. In 1999, Enrique launched Crespo Design Group in his hometown of Tampa, which soon became the sought-after design firm for discerning clients in Florida’s most desirable neighborhoods. The Group made its mark on everything from high-profile beach properties, to island escapes to mountain retreats. In 2021, he expanded his practice to Los Angeles to better serve his clients on the West Coast.

Enrique built his firm to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience for his clients. He is a collaborator who prides himself on listening to clients, understanding their needs, and delivering the lifestyle they have always imagined. Every detail is intentional and chosen to reflect the style, spirit and nature of the client. Whether the goal is eclectic modern estate or sophisticated mountain retreat, Enrique is passionate about exceptional design.

An avid equestrian, Enrique can often be found at the barn at the Tampa Yacht Club and Country Club riding horses or at Stovall House when he’s not designing or traveling. Enrique currently sits on the board of the Tampa Museum and is Chair of the Collections Committee; the board of the Henry B. Plant Museum; the Board of Tampa Bay Businesses for Community and the Arts; and is Chair of the Tampa Museum of Art's CITY Fashion Event. Enrique spends his time between Tampa and Los Angeles. He shares his home in Tampa with his husband Russell and their two French Bulldogs, Coco and Josephine.

Connect with Enrique Crespo

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm

#844: John McClain: Turn Failure Into Success

#849 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#578: Lori Morris: When Working With the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!

#678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes

]]> 2699 no 855: Power Talk Friday: Hunter Lowder: Is it Time for a Fractional COO? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/855-power-talk-friday-hunter-lowder-is-it-time-for-a-fractional-coo Today With Hunter Lowder: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard that we should free ourselves up for CEO-level tasks. But knowing we should and actually following through with it are very different things. It can be hard for entrepreneurs who feel like they have to carry everything in their business. Sometimes, the operations get jumbled along the way. My guest today, Hunter Lowder, runs a business that steps in and serves as fractional COO to get designers back on track. She’s sharing how we can let go, how to find the right person for the job, and how the process of bringing someone in actually works. Pick It Apart [1:48] LuAnn and Hunter discuss what bringing in an outside COO looks like and how it can work.  [5:15] Hunter shares why business owners often experience overwhelm.  [10:33] Hunter and LuAnn discuss the importance of mission, vision, and values when bringing someone into the COO role.  [18:23] Hunter shares two tips for people who might need assistance in their operations.  [33:15] Hunter discusses the different ways she supports business owners. LuAnn Nigara and Hunter Lowder's Ah-Ha Moments “I think everybody talks about creativity and visionaries…but then there’s the side like me who are operations and systems. We are kind of like the fun police, telling people, it’s great that you love what you do—here’s how we make it sustainable.” - Hunter Lowder “The original entrepreneur gets it going…but now the business is growing and decisions need to be made on the daily. The whole organization is accustomed to the CEO being the decision-maker. But there’s this level where the CEO is seeing the next level for the business but is stuck in the weeds of the day-to-day decision making.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Hunter Lowder: Hunter Lowder is co-owner of Tortoise & The Bear, a business strategy, operations, and mindset coaching company that supports visionaries in bringing their wild and crazy dreams to life. Coupling her past business experience as CEO of a multi-million dollar company with mindful coaching approaches, Hunter helps service-based business owners create and prioritize a strategic plan to grow their impact and move their business forward in a sustainable way.  After suffering severe burnout as a CEO, Hunter is passionate about building a business in alignment with her values. When she’s not helping clients fine tune their operations, she’s likely dancing and singing karaoke with her husband, feeding her son’s football team, or hanging out at the beach with her fur babies. Connect with Hunter Lowder Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok FREE Customer Journey Audit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines #385: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Fri, 24 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Hunter Lowder: Is it Time for a Fractional COO? full 855 LuAnn Nigara Today With Hunter Lowder: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard that we should free ourselves up for CEO-level tasks. But knowing we should and actually following through with it are very different things. It can be hard for... Today With Hunter Lowder: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard that we should free ourselves up for CEO-level tasks. But knowing we should and actually following through with it are very different things. It can be hard for entrepreneurs who feel like they have to carry everything in their business. Sometimes, the operations get jumbled along the way. My guest today, Hunter Lowder, runs a business that steps in and serves as fractional COO to get designers back on track. She’s sharing how we can let go, how to find the right person for the job, and how the process of bringing someone in actually works. Pick It Apart [1:48] LuAnn and Hunter discuss what bringing in an outside COO looks like and how it can work.  [5:15] Hunter shares why business owners often experience overwhelm.  [10:33] Hunter and LuAnn discuss the importance of mission, vision, and values when bringing someone into the COO role.  [18:23] Hunter shares two tips for people who might need assistance in their operations.  [33:15] Hunter discusses the different ways she supports business owners. LuAnn Nigara and Hunter Lowder's Ah-Ha Moments “I think everybody talks about creativity and visionaries…but then there’s the side like me who are operations and systems. We are kind of like the fun police, telling people, it’s great that you love what you do—here’s how we make it sustainable.” - Hunter Lowder “The original entrepreneur gets it going…but now the business is growing and decisions need to be made on the daily. The whole organization is accustomed to the CEO being the decision-maker. But there’s this level where the CEO is seeing the next level for the business but is stuck in the weeds of the day-to-day decision making.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Hunter Lowder: Hunter Lowder is co-owner of Tortoise & The Bear, a business strategy, operations, and mindset coaching company that supports visionaries in bringing their wild and crazy dreams to life. Coupling her past business experience as CEO of a multi-million dollar company with mindful coaching approaches, Hunter helps service-based business owners create and prioritize a strategic plan to grow their impact and move their business forward in a sustainable way.  After suffering severe burnout as a CEO, Hunter is passionate about building a business in alignment with her values. When she’s not helping clients fine tune their operations, she’s likely dancing and singing karaoke with her husband, feeding her son’s football team, or hanging out at the beach with her fur babies. Connect with Hunter Lowder Website Instagram  Facebook  TikTok FREE Customer Journey Audit What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines #385: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Today With Hunter Lowder:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard that we should free ourselves up for CEO-level tasks. But knowing we should and actually following through with it are very different things. It can be hard for entrepreneurs who feel like they have to carry everything in their business. Sometimes, the operations get jumbled along the way. My guest today, Hunter Lowder, runs a business that steps in and serves as fractional COO to get designers back on track. She’s sharing how we can let go, how to find the right person for the job, and how the process of bringing someone in actually works.

Pick It Apart

[1:48] LuAnn and Hunter discuss what bringing in an outside COO looks like and how it can work. 

[5:15] Hunter shares why business owners often experience overwhelm. 

[10:33] Hunter and LuAnn discuss the importance of mission, vision, and values when bringing someone into the COO role. 

[18:23] Hunter shares two tips for people who might need assistance in their operations. 

[33:15] Hunter discusses the different ways she supports business owners.

LuAnn Nigara and Hunter Lowder's Ah-Ha Moments

“I think everybody talks about creativity and visionaries…but then there’s the side like me who are operations and systems. We are kind of like the fun police, telling people, it’s great that you love what you do—here’s how we make it sustainable.” - Hunter Lowder

“The original entrepreneur gets it going…but now the business is growing and decisions need to be made on the daily. The whole organization is accustomed to the CEO being the decision-maker. But there’s this level where the CEO is seeing the next level for the business but is stuck in the weeds of the day-to-day decision making.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Hunter Lowder:

Hunter Lowder is co-owner of Tortoise & The Bear, a business strategy, operations, and mindset coaching company that supports visionaries in bringing their wild and crazy dreams to life. Coupling her past business experience as CEO of a multi-million dollar company with mindful coaching approaches, Hunter helps service-based business owners create and prioritize a strategic plan to grow their impact and move their business forward in a sustainable way. 

After suffering severe burnout as a CEO, Hunter is passionate about building a business in alignment with her values. When she’s not helping clients fine tune their operations, she’s likely dancing and singing karaoke with her husband, feeding her son’s football team, or hanging out at the beach with her fur babies.

Connect with Hunter Lowder

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

TikTok

FREE Customer Journey Audit

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

#385: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

]]> 3975 no 854: Lindye Galloway: Connect Your Why to Your Interior Design Business, the Success Will Follow http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/854-lindye-galloway-connect-your-why-to-your-interior-design-business-the-success-will-follow Today With Lindye Galloway: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Lindye Galloway, of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. Lindye is here to share the inspiring story of how she followed her heart, creating a business model for her e-commerce shop and Designed by Lindye collection that does good for others by giving a portion of the profits to provide microloans to entrepreneurs in underserved parts of the world. Lindye encourages us to find meaning through our own business ventures by exploring our whys and living our truths. Pick It Apart [1:39] Lindye tells the story of how she and her husband Winn started the e-commerce shop alongside her design studio in 2020 as a way to make a meaningful impact and help others. [17:47] Lindye and LuAnn examine the logistics of running an e-commerce site. [22:08] Lindye talks about the importance of offering unique, custom products in her shop to set it apart from other e-commerce sites.  [28:00] LuAnn explains the importance of having your mission, vision and values established and how that can impact the success of your business. [32:35] LuAnn and Lindye discuss knowing your truth and recognizing that your truth can shift during different seasons of life. [36:21] Lindye reveals why she doesn’t believe the common phrase “if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life.” LuAnn Nigara and Lindye Galloway's Ah-Ha Moments “I wanted to somehow find a way to help people, I want it to be able to create a business that, yes, could serve me and my family and create a lifestyle, but also that could have more meaning.” -Lindye Galloway “[Prepare] yourself to know that there's going to be so many logistics involved and allowing that to be okay on the journey.” – Lindye Galloway “In everything that we do here in our studio, and in our shop that it's a part of our  core values is generosity. And that comes with each other. And that comes also with giving away.” – Lindye Galloway “As you go up the ladder and the people that actually build the business that they want to build, whether it's big or small, it's because they've decided what it is first that is important to them.” – LuAnn Nigara “There will always be days that feel like work. And if you know what your truth is, you're gonna get through those days.” – Lindye Galloway More About Lindye Galloway: Lindye Galloway is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. As an interior design tastemaker, she delivers an effortless take on a California style that perfectly juxtaposes a tailored sophistication in a laid-back setting.  Entrepreneurial in spirit, what started as a solo passion project, has quickly grown into a successful interior design studio and team serving an exclusive list of clientele across the US each year.  Lindye joined forces with her husband, Winn, to launch The Lindye Galloway Shop. This online destination for home furnishing and decor was launched to help design-lovers easily achieve their own take on The Lindye Galloway Studio’s signature California style and sophistication in their own homes. Connect with Lindye Galloway Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #545: Laurel Smith: Permission to Succeed #717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life   Tue, 21 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Lindye Galloway: Connect Your Why to Your Interior Design Business, the Success Will Follow full 854 LuAnn Nigara Today With Lindye Galloway: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Lindye Galloway, of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. Lindye is here to share the inspiring story of how she followed her heart, creating a business model for her... Today With Lindye Galloway: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Lindye Galloway, of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. Lindye is here to share the inspiring story of how she followed her heart, creating a business model for her e-commerce shop and Designed by Lindye collection that does good for others by giving a portion of the profits to provide microloans to entrepreneurs in underserved parts of the world. Lindye encourages us to find meaning through our own business ventures by exploring our whys and living our truths. Pick It Apart [1:39] Lindye tells the story of how she and her husband Winn started the e-commerce shop alongside her design studio in 2020 as a way to make a meaningful impact and help others. [17:47] Lindye and LuAnn examine the logistics of running an e-commerce site. [22:08] Lindye talks about the importance of offering unique, custom products in her shop to set it apart from other e-commerce sites.  [28:00] LuAnn explains the importance of having your mission, vision and values established and how that can impact the success of your business. [32:35] LuAnn and Lindye discuss knowing your truth and recognizing that your truth can shift during different seasons of life. [36:21] Lindye reveals why she doesn’t believe the common phrase “if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life.” LuAnn Nigara and Lindye Galloway's Ah-Ha Moments “I wanted to somehow find a way to help people, I want it to be able to create a business that, yes, could serve me and my family and create a lifestyle, but also that could have more meaning.” -Lindye Galloway “[Prepare] yourself to know that there's going to be so many logistics involved and allowing that to be okay on the journey.” – Lindye Galloway “In everything that we do here in our studio, and in our shop that it's a part of our  core values is generosity. And that comes with each other. And that comes also with giving away.” – Lindye Galloway “As you go up the ladder and the people that actually build the business that they want to build, whether it's big or small, it's because they've decided what it is first that is important to them.” – LuAnn Nigara “There will always be days that feel like work. And if you know what your truth is, you're gonna get through those days.” – Lindye Galloway More About Lindye Galloway: Lindye Galloway is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. As an interior design tastemaker, she delivers an effortless take on a California style that perfectly juxtaposes a tailored sophistication in a laid-back setting.  Entrepreneurial in spirit, what started as a solo passion project, has quickly grown into a successful interior design studio and team serving an exclusive list of clientele across the US each year.  Lindye joined forces with her husband, Winn, to launch The Lindye Galloway Shop. This online destination for home furnishing and decor was launched to help design-lovers easily achieve their own take on The Lindye Galloway Studio’s signature California style and sophistication in their own homes. Connect with Lindye Galloway Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #545: Laurel Smith: Permission to Succeed #717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project #840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life   Today With Lindye Galloway:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode features Lindye Galloway, of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. Lindye is here to share the inspiring story of how she followed her heart, creating a business model for her e-commerce shop and Designed by Lindye collection that does good for others by giving a portion of the profits to provide microloans to entrepreneurs in underserved parts of the world. Lindye encourages us to find meaning through our own business ventures by exploring our whys and living our truths.

Pick It Apart

[1:39] Lindye tells the story of how she and her husband Winn started the e-commerce shop alongside her design studio in 2020 as a way to make a meaningful impact and help others.

[17:47] Lindye and LuAnn examine the logistics of running an e-commerce site.

[22:08] Lindye talks about the importance of offering unique, custom products in her shop to set it apart from other e-commerce sites. 

[28:00] LuAnn explains the importance of having your mission, vision and values established and how that can impact the success of your business.

[32:35] LuAnn and Lindye discuss knowing your truth and recognizing that your truth can shift during different seasons of life.

[36:21] Lindye reveals why she doesn’t believe the common phrase “if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life.”

LuAnn Nigara and Lindye Galloway's Ah-Ha Moments

“I wanted to somehow find a way to help people, I want it to be able to create a business that, yes, could serve me and my family and create a lifestyle, but also that could have more meaning.” -Lindye Galloway

“[Prepare] yourself to know that there's going to be so many logistics involved and allowing that to be okay on the journey.” – Lindye Galloway

“In everything that we do here in our studio, and in our shop that it's a part of our  core values is generosity. And that comes with each other. And that comes also with giving away.” – Lindye Galloway

“As you go up the ladder and the people that actually build the business that they want to build, whether it's big or small, it's because they've decided what it is first that is important to them.” – LuAnn Nigara

“There will always be days that feel like work. And if you know what your truth is, you're gonna get through those days.” – Lindye Galloway

More About Lindye Galloway:

Lindye Galloway is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. As an interior design tastemaker, she delivers an effortless take on a California style that perfectly juxtaposes a tailored sophistication in a laid-back setting. 

Entrepreneurial in spirit, what started as a solo passion project, has quickly grown into a successful interior design studio and team serving an exclusive list of clientele across the US each year. 

Lindye joined forces with her husband, Winn, to launch The Lindye Galloway Shop. This online destination for home furnishing and decor was launched to help design-lovers easily achieve their own take on The Lindye Galloway Studio’s signature California style and sophistication in their own homes.

Connect with Lindye Galloway

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

#545: Laurel Smith: Permission to Succeed

#717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

#840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

 

]]> 3033 no 853: Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/853-power-talk-friday-brittany-murphy-hiring-an-seo-specialist-for-your-interior-design-firm Today With Brittany Murphy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Brittany Murphy of One Thing Marketing joining me. Just when you think you are starting to understand SEO, Google switches up the algorithm.  SEO is a very important element to our businesses. A lot of us wonder; how do we incorporate SEO? Who do we hire that we can trust to help us? These are very important and common questions and Brittany is here to answer them, and then some. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [2:19] Brittany starts us off by explaining SEO and what it means. [8:34] What to look for in finding a reputable SEO company.  [12:16] What should you be seeing from a marketing company to know they are getting you results.  [31:11] Brittany gets into some DIY tips for those who want to try improving SEO themselves. LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Murphy's Ah-Ha Moments “Google has gotten a lot smarter to prioritize resourceful articles from websites they trust. SEO is how you build that trust.” - Brittany Murphy “Whether you’re dealing with an SEO specialist, or a CPA, or a bookkeeper, whoever it is, if you aren’t feeling like they are meeting you where you are and aren’t sincere, listen to your inside voice and move on.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Brittany Murphy: For almost a decade, Brittany has created over 300 digital marketing strategies for clients all across the US. As a partner for online marketing agency, One Thing Marketing, Brittany focuses on helping home service business owners get their phones to ring with new leads.  Since 2018, her team has niched into specializing for trade and home service business which has allowed them to perfect their proven process and strategies for optimizing clients’ websites and Google presence.  Through her strategies, background in blue collar, and experienced team, Brittany has helped local businesses increase their revenue by at least of 30% every year, year over year. Connect with Brittany Murphy Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  YouTube Twitter 9 Marketing Strategies Proven To Increase Leads 30-minute Strategy Session! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #371: Power Talk Friday: Jason Berkowitz: Optimize the SEO of Your Interior Design Website #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design  #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Fri, 17 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Brittany Murphy: Hiring An SEO Specialist For Your Interior Design Firm full 853 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brittany Murphy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Brittany Murphy of One Thing Marketing joining me. Just when you think you are starting to understand SEO, Google switches up the algorithm.  SEO is a very important... Today With Brittany Murphy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Brittany Murphy of One Thing Marketing joining me. Just when you think you are starting to understand SEO, Google switches up the algorithm.  SEO is a very important element to our businesses. A lot of us wonder; how do we incorporate SEO? Who do we hire that we can trust to help us? These are very important and common questions and Brittany is here to answer them, and then some. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [2:19] Brittany starts us off by explaining SEO and what it means. [8:34] What to look for in finding a reputable SEO company.  [12:16] What should you be seeing from a marketing company to know they are getting you results.  [31:11] Brittany gets into some DIY tips for those who want to try improving SEO themselves. LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Murphy's Ah-Ha Moments “Google has gotten a lot smarter to prioritize resourceful articles from websites they trust. SEO is how you build that trust.” - Brittany Murphy “Whether you’re dealing with an SEO specialist, or a CPA, or a bookkeeper, whoever it is, if you aren’t feeling like they are meeting you where you are and aren’t sincere, listen to your inside voice and move on.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Brittany Murphy: For almost a decade, Brittany has created over 300 digital marketing strategies for clients all across the US. As a partner for online marketing agency, One Thing Marketing, Brittany focuses on helping home service business owners get their phones to ring with new leads.  Since 2018, her team has niched into specializing for trade and home service business which has allowed them to perfect their proven process and strategies for optimizing clients’ websites and Google presence.  Through her strategies, background in blue collar, and experienced team, Brittany has helped local businesses increase their revenue by at least of 30% every year, year over year. Connect with Brittany Murphy Website Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  YouTube Twitter 9 Marketing Strategies Proven To Increase Leads 30-minute Strategy Session! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #371: Power Talk Friday: Jason Berkowitz: Optimize the SEO of Your Interior Design Website #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design  #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Today With Brittany Murphy:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Brittany Murphy of One Thing Marketing joining me. Just when you think you are starting to understand SEO, Google switches up the algorithm. 

SEO is a very important element to our businesses. A lot of us wonder; how do we incorporate SEO? Who do we hire that we can trust to help us? These are very important and common questions and Brittany is here to answer them, and then some. Enjoy!

Pick It Apart

[2:19] Brittany starts us off by explaining SEO and what it means.

[8:34] What to look for in finding a reputable SEO company. 

[12:16] What should you be seeing from a marketing company to know they are getting you results. 

[31:11] Brittany gets into some DIY tips for those who want to try improving SEO themselves.

LuAnn Nigara and Brittany Murphy's Ah-Ha Moments

“Google has gotten a lot smarter to prioritize resourceful articles from websites they trust. SEO is how you build that trust.” - Brittany Murphy

“Whether you’re dealing with an SEO specialist, or a CPA, or a bookkeeper, whoever it is, if you aren’t feeling like they are meeting you where you are and aren’t sincere, listen to your inside voice and move on.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Brittany Murphy:

For almost a decade, Brittany has created over 300 digital marketing strategies for clients all across the US. As a partner for online marketing agency, One Thing Marketing, Brittany focuses on helping home service business owners get their phones to ring with new leads. 

Since 2018, her team has niched into specializing for trade and home service business which has allowed them to perfect their proven process and strategies for optimizing clients’ websites and Google presence. 

Through her strategies, background in blue collar, and experienced team, Brittany has helped local businesses increase their revenue by at least of 30% every year, year over year.

Connect with Brittany Murphy

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn 

YouTube

Twitter

9 Marketing Strategies Proven To Increase Leads

30-minute Strategy Session!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#371: Power Talk Friday: Jason Berkowitz: Optimize the SEO of Your Interior Design Website

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design 

#746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio

]]> 4722 no 852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/852-nicole-salceda-you-dont-need-to-have-all-the-superpowers Today With Nicole Salceda: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I’m joined by Nicole Salceda! Her career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She is going to share with us how she built the amazing team that is behind her brand, the “not so pretty” things she had to overcome during the first years in business, and how she manages her Instagram account of over 295,000 followers. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Salceda's Ah-Ha Moments “The error isn’t in investing in your business, the error was in understanding how, where, and when the tracking of it.” - LuAnn Nigara “It was time for me to find the right people, get them in the right seats so I could really scale this business” - Nicole Salceda “Once an entrepreneur fully owns their finances, the whole business changes” - LuAnn Nigara More About Nicole Salceda: Nicole Salceda's career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She left her job as an elementary school teacher to see those spaces come to life firsthand. What started as a handful of clients quickly became a rapidly growing portfolio full of homes in her signature warm minimalist style. Now, having been through a dream home remodel of her own, she has even more perspective when it comes to the client experience.  Nicole and team—each member hand-picked for their talent—work closely to create inspiring spaces. They assemble elements that are old, new, handmade, and thrifted for homes that are understated, but far from boring. Each refined detail is a testament to Nicole's distinct penchant for bringing a room together—to her eye for pretty. Connect with Nicole Salceda Website Eye For Pretty At Home Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet #507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm Tue, 14 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers full 852 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nicole Salceda: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I’m joined by Nicole Salceda! Her career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She is going to share with us how she built... Today With Nicole Salceda: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I’m joined by Nicole Salceda! Her career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She is going to share with us how she built the amazing team that is behind her brand, the “not so pretty” things she had to overcome during the first years in business, and how she manages her Instagram account of over 295,000 followers. LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Salceda's Ah-Ha Moments “The error isn’t in investing in your business, the error was in understanding how, where, and when the tracking of it.” - LuAnn Nigara “It was time for me to find the right people, get them in the right seats so I could really scale this business” - Nicole Salceda “Once an entrepreneur fully owns their finances, the whole business changes” - LuAnn Nigara More About Nicole Salceda: Nicole Salceda's career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She left her job as an elementary school teacher to see those spaces come to life firsthand. What started as a handful of clients quickly became a rapidly growing portfolio full of homes in her signature warm minimalist style. Now, having been through a dream home remodel of her own, she has even more perspective when it comes to the client experience.  Nicole and team—each member hand-picked for their talent—work closely to create inspiring spaces. They assemble elements that are old, new, handmade, and thrifted for homes that are understated, but far from boring. Each refined detail is a testament to Nicole's distinct penchant for bringing a room together—to her eye for pretty. Connect with Nicole Salceda Website Eye For Pretty At Home Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet #507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm Today With Nicole Salceda:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I’m joined by Nicole Salceda! Her career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She is going to share with us how she built the amazing team that is behind her brand, the “not so pretty” things she had to overcome during the first years in business, and how she manages her Instagram account of over 295,000 followers.

LuAnn Nigara and Nicole Salceda's Ah-Ha Moments

“The error isn’t in investing in your business, the error was in understanding how, where, and when the tracking of it.” - LuAnn Nigara

“It was time for me to find the right people, get them in the right seats so I could really scale this business” - Nicole Salceda

“Once an entrepreneur fully owns their finances, the whole business changes” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Nicole Salceda:

Nicole Salceda's career in interiors began as a passion for making the polished, functional design more accessible. She left her job as an elementary school teacher to see those spaces come to life firsthand. What started as a handful of clients quickly became a rapidly growing portfolio full of homes in her signature warm minimalist style. Now, having been through a dream home remodel of her own, she has even more perspective when it comes to the client experience. 

Nicole and team—each member hand-picked for their talent—work closely to create inspiring spaces. They assemble elements that are old, new, handmade, and thrifted for homes that are understated, but far from boring. Each refined detail is a testament to Nicole's distinct penchant for bringing a room together—to her eye for pretty.

Connect with Nicole Salceda

Website

Eye For Pretty At Home

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

#507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design

#203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

]]> 3711 no 851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/851-power-talk-friday-alexis-varbero-making-connections-that-matter Today With Alexis Varbero: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Alexis Varbero, we discuss how she expanded the family-owned business Schwartz Design Showroom. How? Well many ways, but one way that is no stranger of a topic to the show, is by building relationships. Alexis strengthened the relationships her mom started to form with interior designers when she owned the business. A big way she was successfully able to do this was how she built and maintained positive relationships with her manufacturers. Listen in to see how fostering relationships in your business can go full circle. Pick It Apart [2:44] Alexis shares the history of Schwartz Design Showroom starting with her mom and grandfather. [12:11] Alexis explains how she is that support for the design teams she works with.  [15:30] The importance of building a supportive team. [37:50] How a designer from outside of New Jersey can work with Schwartz Design Showroom. LuAnn Nigara and Alexis Varbero's Ah-Ha Moments “I want people to see Schwartz Design Showroom as a place that takes care of all of their needs. We want to leave them the time to focus on their business and clients.” - Alexis Varbero “Our best relationships are the relationships we have with the manufacturer, to the reps. to the client, so we can continuously support the designer.” - Alexis Varbero “We are that part of your team that are thinking about the “what ifs” to give you peace of mind.” - Alexis Varbero More About Alexis Varbero: In 2004, Schwartz Design Showroom CEO Alexis Varbero left her high-profile career with Bobbi Brown to take the helm of her family-run business. Opened by her grandfather, Morris Schwartz in 1947, SDS celebrates its 75th year in business this November 2022. The New Jersey– and Connecticut-based business is known as one of the most comprehensive trade-only interiors showrooms in the Tri-State area. Varbero has increased the company’s footprint by expanding its Stamford showroom for a total of 7,000 square feet and opening a new 12,000 square foot location in NJ, Fulton Street Design Center, which will house Schwartz Design Showroom along with other companies slated to provide additional resources for designers. In addition, Varbero opened a third showroom location in September called The Barn at Schwartz Design Showroom. The Barn is located in Peapack Gladstone, NJ and will serve as a satellite location catering to designers in Somerset, Morris and Hunterdon Counties.  Today, Alexis stays ahead of the curve by being ever-present in the market and attending an array of trade shows and fashion events spanning High Point Market to New York Fashion Week. Above all, transparency is paramount: Every brand carried is linked on the showroom’s website, so that design professionals can feel comfortable with each product and its pricing structure. Alexis is constantly adding to the roster of cutting-edge manufacturers providing interior designers access to the industries finest brands, while simultaneously acting as the designer’s back end office. “First and foremost, we are your partner and your team,” says Varbero. “Customer service is our highest priority.” Connect with Alexis Varbero Website Instagram Example of supporting up and coming manufacturers - Society of Wonderland Textile and Wallcovering Designer Other Shows Mentioned: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #838: Regan Baker: Building a Team That Supports Your Core Values Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter full 851 LuAnn Nigara Today With Alexis Varbero: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Alexis Varbero, we discuss how she expanded the family-owned business Schwartz Design Showroom. How? Well many ways, but one way that is no stranger of a topic to the show, is... Today With Alexis Varbero: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Alexis Varbero, we discuss how she expanded the family-owned business Schwartz Design Showroom. How? Well many ways, but one way that is no stranger of a topic to the show, is by building relationships. Alexis strengthened the relationships her mom started to form with interior designers when she owned the business. A big way she was successfully able to do this was how she built and maintained positive relationships with her manufacturers. Listen in to see how fostering relationships in your business can go full circle. Pick It Apart [2:44] Alexis shares the history of Schwartz Design Showroom starting with her mom and grandfather. [12:11] Alexis explains how she is that support for the design teams she works with.  [15:30] The importance of building a supportive team. [37:50] How a designer from outside of New Jersey can work with Schwartz Design Showroom. LuAnn Nigara and Alexis Varbero's Ah-Ha Moments “I want people to see Schwartz Design Showroom as a place that takes care of all of their needs. We want to leave them the time to focus on their business and clients.” - Alexis Varbero “Our best relationships are the relationships we have with the manufacturer, to the reps. to the client, so we can continuously support the designer.” - Alexis Varbero “We are that part of your team that are thinking about the “what ifs” to give you peace of mind.” - Alexis Varbero More About Alexis Varbero: In 2004, Schwartz Design Showroom CEO Alexis Varbero left her high-profile career with Bobbi Brown to take the helm of her family-run business. Opened by her grandfather, Morris Schwartz in 1947, SDS celebrates its 75th year in business this November 2022. The New Jersey– and Connecticut-based business is known as one of the most comprehensive trade-only interiors showrooms in the Tri-State area. Varbero has increased the company’s footprint by expanding its Stamford showroom for a total of 7,000 square feet and opening a new 12,000 square foot location in NJ, Fulton Street Design Center, which will house Schwartz Design Showroom along with other companies slated to provide additional resources for designers. In addition, Varbero opened a third showroom location in September called The Barn at Schwartz Design Showroom. The Barn is located in Peapack Gladstone, NJ and will serve as a satellite location catering to designers in Somerset, Morris and Hunterdon Counties.  Today, Alexis stays ahead of the curve by being ever-present in the market and attending an array of trade shows and fashion events spanning High Point Market to New York Fashion Week. Above all, transparency is paramount: Every brand carried is linked on the showroom’s website, so that design professionals can feel comfortable with each product and its pricing structure. Alexis is constantly adding to the roster of cutting-edge manufacturers providing interior designers access to the industries finest brands, while simultaneously acting as the designer’s back end office. “First and foremost, we are your partner and your team,” says Varbero. “Customer service is our highest priority.” Connect with Alexis Varbero Website Instagram Example of supporting up and coming manufacturers - Society of Wonderland Textile and Wallcovering Designer Other Shows Mentioned: #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan #838: Regan Baker: Building a Team That Supports Your Core Values Today With Alexis Varbero:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Alexis Varbero, we discuss how she expanded the family-owned business Schwartz Design Showroom. How? Well many ways, but one way that is no stranger of a topic to the show, is by building relationships.

Alexis strengthened the relationships her mom started to form with interior designers when she owned the business. A big way she was successfully able to do this was how she built and maintained positive relationships with her manufacturers. Listen in to see how fostering relationships in your business can go full circle.

Pick It Apart

[2:44] Alexis shares the history of Schwartz Design Showroom starting with her mom and grandfather.

[12:11] Alexis explains how she is that support for the design teams she works with. 

[15:30] The importance of building a supportive team.

[37:50] How a designer from outside of New Jersey can work with Schwartz Design Showroom.

LuAnn Nigara and Alexis Varbero's Ah-Ha Moments

“I want people to see Schwartz Design Showroom as a place that takes care of all of their needs. We want to leave them the time to focus on their business and clients.” - Alexis Varbero

“Our best relationships are the relationships we have with the manufacturer, to the reps. to the client, so we can continuously support the designer.” - Alexis Varbero

“We are that part of your team that are thinking about the “what ifs” to give you peace of mind.” - Alexis Varbero

More About Alexis Varbero:

In 2004, Schwartz Design Showroom CEO Alexis Varbero left her high-profile career with Bobbi Brown to take the helm of her family-run business. Opened by her grandfather, Morris Schwartz in 1947, SDS celebrates its 75th year in business this November 2022. The New Jersey– and Connecticut-based business is known as one of the most comprehensive trade-only interiors showrooms in the Tri-State area. Varbero has increased the company’s footprint by expanding its Stamford showroom for a total of 7,000 square feet and opening a new 12,000 square foot location in NJ, Fulton Street Design Center, which will house Schwartz Design Showroom along with other companies slated to provide additional resources for designers. In addition, Varbero opened a third showroom location in September called The Barn at Schwartz Design Showroom. The Barn is located in Peapack Gladstone, NJ and will serve as a satellite location catering to designers in Somerset, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. 

Today, Alexis stays ahead of the curve by being ever-present in the market and attending an array of trade shows and fashion events spanning High Point Market to New York Fashion Week. Above all, transparency is paramount: Every brand carried is linked on the showroom’s website, so that design professionals can feel comfortable with each product and its pricing structure. Alexis is constantly adding to the roster of cutting-edge manufacturers providing interior designers access to the industries finest brands, while simultaneously acting as the designer’s back end office. “First and foremost, we are your partner and your team,” says Varbero. “Customer service is our highest priority.”

Connect with Alexis Varbero

Website

Instagram

Example of supporting up and coming manufacturers - Society of Wonderland Textile and Wallcovering Designer

Other Shows Mentioned:

#823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

#838: Regan Baker: Building a Team That Supports Your Core Values

]]> 4004 no 850: Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: How To Stay Young and Hot As a Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/850-shaun-crha-rebecca-plumb-how-to-stay-young-and-hot-as-a-designer Today With Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Shaun Crha of Wrensted Interiors and Rebecca Plumb of Studio Plumb on the show. They met on Instagram and are now design besties—together hosting the Hot Young Designers Club podcast, where they explore the emotional, practical, and humorous side of the interior design world. Shaun and Rebecca are here today to inspire community, not competition, between fellow designers, and we’re talking about relationships, boundaries, rates, and red flags. We hope that you join us. Pick It Apart [4:28] Rebecca and Shaun talk about how they met and became friends [11:50] Rebecca explains how the peer-to-peer mentorship between her and Shaun works and why it is helpful to have this relationship [22:32] LuAnn digs into how Shaun and Rebecca run the back end of their businesses [27:29] Rebecca explains how she uses automation to create boundaries with her clients [38:50] Rebecca and Shaun discuss rates and how they have both experiments with hourly rates and flat fees. [51:24] Shaun talks about dispelling the myth that designers can’t create a sustainable living for themselves LuAnn Nigara and Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb's Ah-Ha Moments “We attract the type of clients that are attracted to our personality type and the type of business that we run. I think that's why there's so much room for all of us, because there's so many different kinds of people.” - Rebecca Plumb “I’ve learned a lot about my personality in this business.” - Rebecca Plumb “One of the biggest things that's come from developing relationships with Rebecca and other designers and creatives is this dispelling of the myth that designers can't create sustainable livings for themselves…It is possible to create a decent quality of life for ourselves that still has room to grow.” - Shaun Crha “When you run it like a business you can do your creative all day long.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Rebecca Plumb (Studio Plumb) and Shaun Crha (Wrensted Interiors) came to interior design after other career paths. They met through Instagram while completing the popular One Room Challenge and turned their online banter into a real-life friendship while attending the semi-annual Las Vegas Market. They bring a sense of humor and irreverence to running their design businesses that spills over into the podcast. Their advice always come from a place of helpfulness delivered by your big sister and gay best friend. Connect with Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb Website Instagram  Apple Podcasts What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions #739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #826: Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Finding Success & Switching Careers with Confidence #822: Layton Campbell: The Drama of Interior Design: A Former Broadway Performer Sets the Stage for Building a Design Business #814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? Tue, 07 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: How To Stay Young and Hot As a Designer full 850 LuAnn Nigara Today With Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Shaun Crha of Wrensted Interiors and Rebecca Plumb of Studio Plumb on the show. They met on Instagram and are now design besties—together hosting the Hot... Today With Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Shaun Crha of Wrensted Interiors and Rebecca Plumb of Studio Plumb on the show. They met on Instagram and are now design besties—together hosting the Hot Young Designers Club podcast, where they explore the emotional, practical, and humorous side of the interior design world. Shaun and Rebecca are here today to inspire community, not competition, between fellow designers, and we’re talking about relationships, boundaries, rates, and red flags. We hope that you join us. Pick It Apart [4:28] Rebecca and Shaun talk about how they met and became friends [11:50] Rebecca explains how the peer-to-peer mentorship between her and Shaun works and why it is helpful to have this relationship [22:32] LuAnn digs into how Shaun and Rebecca run the back end of their businesses [27:29] Rebecca explains how she uses automation to create boundaries with her clients [38:50] Rebecca and Shaun discuss rates and how they have both experiments with hourly rates and flat fees. [51:24] Shaun talks about dispelling the myth that designers can’t create a sustainable living for themselves LuAnn Nigara and Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb's Ah-Ha Moments “We attract the type of clients that are attracted to our personality type and the type of business that we run. I think that's why there's so much room for all of us, because there's so many different kinds of people.” - Rebecca Plumb “I’ve learned a lot about my personality in this business.” - Rebecca Plumb “One of the biggest things that's come from developing relationships with Rebecca and other designers and creatives is this dispelling of the myth that designers can't create sustainable livings for themselves…It is possible to create a decent quality of life for ourselves that still has room to grow.” - Shaun Crha “When you run it like a business you can do your creative all day long.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Rebecca Plumb (Studio Plumb) and Shaun Crha (Wrensted Interiors) came to interior design after other career paths. They met through Instagram while completing the popular One Room Challenge and turned their online banter into a real-life friendship while attending the semi-annual Las Vegas Market. They bring a sense of humor and irreverence to running their design businesses that spills over into the podcast. Their advice always come from a place of helpfulness delivered by your big sister and gay best friend. Connect with Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb Website Instagram  Apple Podcasts What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions #739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #826: Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Finding Success & Switching Careers with Confidence #822: Layton Campbell: The Drama of Interior Design: A Former Broadway Performer Sets the Stage for Building a Design Business #814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? Today With Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Shaun Crha of Wrensted Interiors and Rebecca Plumb of Studio Plumb on the show. They met on Instagram and are now design besties—together hosting the Hot Young Designers Club podcast, where they explore the emotional, practical, and humorous side of the interior design world.

Shaun and Rebecca are here today to inspire community, not competition, between fellow designers, and we’re talking about relationships, boundaries, rates, and red flags. We hope that you join us.

Pick It Apart

[4:28] Rebecca and Shaun talk about how they met and became friends

[11:50] Rebecca explains how the peer-to-peer mentorship between her and Shaun works and why it is helpful to have this relationship

[22:32] LuAnn digs into how Shaun and Rebecca run the back end of their businesses

[27:29] Rebecca explains how she uses automation to create boundaries with her clients

[38:50] Rebecca and Shaun discuss rates and how they have both experiments with hourly rates and flat fees.

[51:24] Shaun talks about dispelling the myth that designers can’t create a sustainable living for themselves

LuAnn Nigara and Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb's Ah-Ha Moments

“We attract the type of clients that are attracted to our personality type and the type of business that we run. I think that's why there's so much room for all of us, because there's so many different kinds of people.” - Rebecca Plumb

“I’ve learned a lot about my personality in this business.” - Rebecca Plumb

“One of the biggest things that's come from developing relationships with Rebecca and other designers and creatives is this dispelling of the myth that designers can't create sustainable livings for themselves…It is possible to create a decent quality of life for ourselves that still has room to grow.” - Shaun Crha

“When you run it like a business you can do your creative all day long.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb:

Rebecca Plumb (Studio Plumb) and Shaun Crha (Wrensted Interiors) came to interior design after other career paths. They met through Instagram while completing the popular One Room Challenge and turned their online banter into a real-life friendship while attending the semi-annual Las Vegas Market. They bring a sense of humor and irreverence to running their design businesses that spills over into the podcast. Their advice always come from a place of helpfulness delivered by your big sister and gay best friend.

Connect with Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb

Website

Instagram 

Apple Podcasts

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

#739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life

#826: Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Finding Success & Switching Careers with Confidence

#822: Layton Campbell: The Drama of Interior Design: A Former Broadway Performer Sets the Stage for Building a Design Business

#814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business?

]]> 3915 no 849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/849-power-talk-friday-staci-davidson-why-you-need-someone-to-handle-everything-but-design Today With Staci Davidson: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am joined by Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design, where she does just that. Staci is capable of taking on every aspect of an interior design business, from accounting and bookkeeping to consulting and customer service, freeing up her clients so that they can get back to what they do best: Design. Staci is here to talk about her experience and the value that outsourcing your back-end operations can bring to your business, boosting not only your confidence, but your profits. Pick It Apart [3:39] Staci recounts her experience as an operations manager and bookkeeper for a residential design firm, handling “everything but design” in the business and growing it to a multimillion-dollar firm. [10:47] Staci and LuAnn discuss the services Everything but Design offers beyond just bookkeeping, and Staci explains how outsourcing administrative tasks to someone that understands the design industry allows her clients to focus more on their designs, builds confidence, and ultimately generate more revenue  [22:22] LuAnn and Staci talk about the importance of systems and processes, and how the way a project is managed can be more important than the beauty of the design to clients  [29:20] Staci explains how she uses best practices as a bookkeeper to help business owners analyze their margins, adjust prices, and gain profits [42:01] Staci and LuAnn talk about the importance of systems and standards, especially when communicating with clients by setting expectations beforehand LuAnn Nigara and Staci Davidson's Ah-Ha Moments “You need someone that has your back, and they aren't just pushing data, they're ensuring that it's accurate and advising you on next steps, best practices, ways to save money, or improvements into your process.” - Staci Davidson “When a designer is in their lane, and focusing on the design, all of the other things fall into place.” – LuAnn Nigara “When you have really satisfied clients who feel like they were taken care of, the referrals are going to come in.” – Staci Davidson “Really feeling confident in yourself, your design, and your processes will elevate your business so much.” – Staci Davidson More About Staci Davidson: Staci discovered her love for the business of Interior Design in 2016 when she was hired as the Operations Manager of a residential design firm. She quickly realized so much more went into running a successful design business. Her true passion is freeing up the designer, taking over all aspects of the business and allowing the owners to focus on creating amazing spaces their clients will cherish for years to come.  She has done blog posts for Design Manager and has been asked to speak at High Point on best practices for running a successful business. Offering a wide variety of services, Staci and her team can do Everything but Design! Connect with Staci Davidson Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB Episode 349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB Episode 464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner AWDB Episode 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers AWDB Episode 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating WTFP Episode 125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship Other Resources Mentioned: The Interior Design Standard with Sandra Funk Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design full 849 LuAnn Nigara Today With Staci Davidson: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am joined by Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design, where she does just that. Staci is capable of taking on every aspect of an interior design business, from accounting... Today With Staci Davidson: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am joined by Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design, where she does just that. Staci is capable of taking on every aspect of an interior design business, from accounting and bookkeeping to consulting and customer service, freeing up her clients so that they can get back to what they do best: Design. Staci is here to talk about her experience and the value that outsourcing your back-end operations can bring to your business, boosting not only your confidence, but your profits. Pick It Apart [3:39] Staci recounts her experience as an operations manager and bookkeeper for a residential design firm, handling “everything but design” in the business and growing it to a multimillion-dollar firm. [10:47] Staci and LuAnn discuss the services Everything but Design offers beyond just bookkeeping, and Staci explains how outsourcing administrative tasks to someone that understands the design industry allows her clients to focus more on their designs, builds confidence, and ultimately generate more revenue  [22:22] LuAnn and Staci talk about the importance of systems and processes, and how the way a project is managed can be more important than the beauty of the design to clients  [29:20] Staci explains how she uses best practices as a bookkeeper to help business owners analyze their margins, adjust prices, and gain profits [42:01] Staci and LuAnn talk about the importance of systems and standards, especially when communicating with clients by setting expectations beforehand LuAnn Nigara and Staci Davidson's Ah-Ha Moments “You need someone that has your back, and they aren't just pushing data, they're ensuring that it's accurate and advising you on next steps, best practices, ways to save money, or improvements into your process.” - Staci Davidson “When a designer is in their lane, and focusing on the design, all of the other things fall into place.” – LuAnn Nigara “When you have really satisfied clients who feel like they were taken care of, the referrals are going to come in.” – Staci Davidson “Really feeling confident in yourself, your design, and your processes will elevate your business so much.” – Staci Davidson More About Staci Davidson: Staci discovered her love for the business of Interior Design in 2016 when she was hired as the Operations Manager of a residential design firm. She quickly realized so much more went into running a successful design business. Her true passion is freeing up the designer, taking over all aspects of the business and allowing the owners to focus on creating amazing spaces their clients will cherish for years to come.  She has done blog posts for Design Manager and has been asked to speak at High Point on best practices for running a successful business. Offering a wide variety of services, Staci and her team can do Everything but Design! Connect with Staci Davidson Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: AWDB Episode 349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA AWDB Episode 464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner AWDB Episode 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers AWDB Episode 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating WTFP Episode 125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship Other Resources Mentioned: The Interior Design Standard with Sandra Funk Today With Staci Davidson:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am joined by Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design, where she does just that. Staci is capable of taking on every aspect of an interior design business, from accounting and bookkeeping to consulting and customer service, freeing up her clients so that they can get back to what they do best: Design. Staci is here to talk about her experience and the value that outsourcing your back-end operations can bring to your business, boosting not only your confidence, but your profits.

Pick It Apart

[3:39] Staci recounts her experience as an operations manager and bookkeeper for a residential design firm, handling “everything but design” in the business and growing it to a multimillion-dollar firm.

[10:47] Staci and LuAnn discuss the services Everything but Design offers beyond just bookkeeping, and Staci explains how outsourcing administrative tasks to someone that understands the design industry allows her clients to focus more on their designs, builds confidence, and ultimately generate more revenue 

[22:22] LuAnn and Staci talk about the importance of systems and processes, and how the way a project is managed can be more important than the beauty of the design to clients 

[29:20] Staci explains how she uses best practices as a bookkeeper to help business owners analyze their margins, adjust prices, and gain profits

[42:01] Staci and LuAnn talk about the importance of systems and standards, especially when communicating with clients by setting expectations beforehand

LuAnn Nigara and Staci Davidson's Ah-Ha Moments

“You need someone that has your back, and they aren't just pushing data, they're ensuring that it's accurate and advising you on next steps, best practices, ways to save money, or improvements into your process.” - Staci Davidson

“When a designer is in their lane, and focusing on the design, all of the other things fall into place.” – LuAnn Nigara

“When you have really satisfied clients who feel like they were taken care of, the referrals are going to come in.” – Staci Davidson

“Really feeling confident in yourself, your design, and your processes will elevate your business so much.” – Staci Davidson

More About Staci Davidson:

Staci discovered her love for the business of Interior Design in 2016 when she was hired as the Operations Manager of a residential design firm. She quickly realized so much more went into running a successful design business. Her true passion is freeing up the designer, taking over all aspects of the business and allowing the owners to focus on creating amazing spaces their clients will cherish for years to come. 

She has done blog posts for Design Manager and has been asked to speak at High Point on best practices for running a successful business.

Offering a wide variety of services, Staci and her team can do Everything but Design!

Connect with Staci Davidson

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB Episode 349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

AWDB Episode 464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

AWDB Episode 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers

AWDB Episode 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

WTFP Episode 125: Debra Scarpa: The Power of a Visionary & Integrator Relationship

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Interior Design Standard with Sandra Funk

]]> 3711 no 848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/848-amy-youngblood-why-your-contact-form-is-critical-in-identifying-your-ideal-interior-design-client Today With Amy Youngblood Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s no secret that I love systems and processes. They are the absolute backbone to increasing your profitability. My guest today, Amy Youngblood, principal of Amy Youngblood Interiors, has a very specific process that has helped her not just increase her profitability and bring in more clients, but also to bring in the right clients. She’s taking us through her intake process and discussing why and how it works to ensure that she works with her ideal clients. Pick It Apart [0:57] Amy shares her story of why she realized she needed to make a change in her business.  [7:07] Amy and LuAnn begin a deep-dive into Amy’s contact form. [20:58] Amy highlights why it’s important to ensure that partners in a home are on the same page. [43:58] Amy and LuAnn discuss the value of thinking outside of the box, even when you have systems and processes in place. LuAnn Nigara and Amy Youngblood' Ah-Ha Moments “What you’re saying is the first critical key in finding the happiness and joy in your business if it’s lacking is, are you working with the type of people and the type of projects that you enjoy.” - LuAnn Nigara “What I love about this is that we’re having an inside conversation about our reaction to consumer’s responses. But even if you have ten inquiries a month, if you have two or three every month that are searching for designers but plan to shop on their own, it’s a disconnect of the garden variety consumer disconnecting with design. They think of it as a commodity industry of you just picking things out for them.” - LuAnn Nigara “People want to hear back from you. Even if it’s not a good inquiry, I still respond back and say why, and I say it as respectfully as possible.” - Amy Youngblood More About Amy Youngblood: Amy began her career in interior design over 20 years ago. She has worked for several design firms, both residential and commercial. With a strong background as an accomplished artist, Amy fused her creative abilities along with her business and design experience to launch Amy Youngblood Interiors in 2009. Both Amy’s artwork and design commissions have been featured over the years in the local and national media. Amy’s appreciation of all styles has made her known for her clean-lined, yet comfortable, sophisticated look. Born in Michigan, Amy received her Bachelor of Arts degree at DePauw University with a Major in Communications, and later received a degree in Interior Design at Mount Saint Joseph University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with an emphasis on Art History. Amy has since taught interior design courses at the Mount Saint Joseph University in addition to having served as President of the school’s ASID Chapter. Amy also serves on various charity boards and is a consultant and investor in the local fashion and design industry in Cincinnati. As past President of Cincinnati Business Network, Amy enjoys networking with and mentoring other entrepreneurial business owners. She is also an active member of the OTR Chamber of Commerce, a member of the ArtsWave's Women's Leadership Roundtable, a founding member of the Contemporary Arts Center's prestigious Women's group, and a regular expert guest on local television. In addition, Amy has been named one of "Ohio's Top Interior Designers" by The LuxPad, an international publication specializing in high-end interior design. Her work is also regularly featured on HGTV.com. Amy has also been a featured speaker at NeoCon, an honor of being chosen among hundreds of interior designers.  When Amy is not growing her eponymous firm, she enjoys traveling with her husband Tom and two teenagers as well as exploring the food and culture of Cincinnati. An avid fitness buff, she can be found at her trainer's studio or at a Pilates class. She is also a fashion lover and integrates it into her designs. Check out Amy's fashion, style, and local events blog, Cincinnista. Amy continues to accept prestigious art commissions as her schedule allows. Please view her work at amyyoungbloodsportsart.com. Amy Youngblood Interiors is certified as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation's largest third party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the U.S. Connect with Amy Youngblood Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #372: Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients #820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No Tue, 31 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client full 848 LuAnn Nigara Today With Amy Youngblood Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s no secret that I love systems and processes. They are the absolute backbone to increasing your profitability. My guest today, Amy Youngblood, principal of Amy Youngblood Interiors,... Today With Amy Youngblood Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s no secret that I love systems and processes. They are the absolute backbone to increasing your profitability. My guest today, Amy Youngblood, principal of Amy Youngblood Interiors, has a very specific process that has helped her not just increase her profitability and bring in more clients, but also to bring in the right clients. She’s taking us through her intake process and discussing why and how it works to ensure that she works with her ideal clients. Pick It Apart [0:57] Amy shares her story of why she realized she needed to make a change in her business.  [7:07] Amy and LuAnn begin a deep-dive into Amy’s contact form. [20:58] Amy highlights why it’s important to ensure that partners in a home are on the same page. [43:58] Amy and LuAnn discuss the value of thinking outside of the box, even when you have systems and processes in place. LuAnn Nigara and Amy Youngblood' Ah-Ha Moments “What you’re saying is the first critical key in finding the happiness and joy in your business if it’s lacking is, are you working with the type of people and the type of projects that you enjoy.” - LuAnn Nigara “What I love about this is that we’re having an inside conversation about our reaction to consumer’s responses. But even if you have ten inquiries a month, if you have two or three every month that are searching for designers but plan to shop on their own, it’s a disconnect of the garden variety consumer disconnecting with design. They think of it as a commodity industry of you just picking things out for them.” - LuAnn Nigara “People want to hear back from you. Even if it’s not a good inquiry, I still respond back and say why, and I say it as respectfully as possible.” - Amy Youngblood More About Amy Youngblood: Amy began her career in interior design over 20 years ago. She has worked for several design firms, both residential and commercial. With a strong background as an accomplished artist, Amy fused her creative abilities along with her business and design experience to launch Amy Youngblood Interiors in 2009. Both Amy’s artwork and design commissions have been featured over the years in the local and national media. Amy’s appreciation of all styles has made her known for her clean-lined, yet comfortable, sophisticated look. Born in Michigan, Amy received her Bachelor of Arts degree at DePauw University with a Major in Communications, and later received a degree in Interior Design at Mount Saint Joseph University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with an emphasis on Art History. Amy has since taught interior design courses at the Mount Saint Joseph University in addition to having served as President of the school’s ASID Chapter. Amy also serves on various charity boards and is a consultant and investor in the local fashion and design industry in Cincinnati. As past President of Cincinnati Business Network, Amy enjoys networking with and mentoring other entrepreneurial business owners. She is also an active member of the OTR Chamber of Commerce, a member of the ArtsWave's Women's Leadership Roundtable, a founding member of the Contemporary Arts Center's prestigious Women's group, and a regular expert guest on local television. In addition, Amy has been named one of "Ohio's Top Interior Designers" by The LuxPad, an international publication specializing in high-end interior design. Her work is also regularly featured on HGTV.com. Amy has also been a featured speaker at NeoCon, an honor of being chosen among hundreds of interior designers.  When Amy is not growing her eponymous firm, she enjoys traveling with her husband Tom and two teenagers as well as exploring the food and culture of Cincinnati. An avid fitness buff, she can be found at her trainer's studio or at a Pilates class. She is also a fashion lover and integrates it into her designs. Check out Amy's fashion, style, and local events blog, Cincinnista. Amy continues to accept prestigious art commissions as her schedule allows. Please view her work at amyyoungbloodsportsart.com. Amy Youngblood Interiors is certified as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation's largest third party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the U.S. Connect with Amy Youngblood Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #372: Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients #820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No Today With Amy Youngblood

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s no secret that I love systems and processes. They are the absolute backbone to increasing your profitability. My guest today, Amy Youngblood, principal of Amy Youngblood Interiors, has a very specific process that has helped her not just increase her profitability and bring in more clients, but also to bring in the right clients. She’s taking us through her intake process and discussing why and how it works to ensure that she works with her ideal clients.

Pick It Apart

[0:57] Amy shares her story of why she realized she needed to make a change in her business. 

[7:07] Amy and LuAnn begin a deep-dive into Amy’s contact form.

[20:58] Amy highlights why it’s important to ensure that partners in a home are on the same page.

[43:58] Amy and LuAnn discuss the value of thinking outside of the box, even when you have systems and processes in place.

LuAnn Nigara and Amy Youngblood' Ah-Ha Moments

“What you’re saying is the first critical key in finding the happiness and joy in your business if it’s lacking is, are you working with the type of people and the type of projects that you enjoy.” - LuAnn Nigara

“What I love about this is that we’re having an inside conversation about our reaction to consumer’s responses. But even if you have ten inquiries a month, if you have two or three every month that are searching for designers but plan to shop on their own, it’s a disconnect of the garden variety consumer disconnecting with design. They think of it as a commodity industry of you just picking things out for them.” - LuAnn Nigara

“People want to hear back from you. Even if it’s not a good inquiry, I still respond back and say why, and I say it as respectfully as possible.” - Amy Youngblood

More About Amy Youngblood:

Amy began her career in interior design over 20 years ago. She has worked for several design firms, both residential and commercial. With a strong background as an accomplished artist, Amy fused her creative abilities along with her business and design experience to launch Amy Youngblood Interiors in 2009. Both Amy’s artwork and design commissions have been featured over the years in the local and national media. Amy’s appreciation of all styles has made her known for her clean-lined, yet comfortable, sophisticated look.

Born in Michigan, Amy received her Bachelor of Arts degree at DePauw University with a Major in Communications, and later received a degree in Interior Design at Mount Saint Joseph University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with an emphasis on Art History. Amy has since taught interior design courses at the Mount Saint Joseph University in addition to having served as President of the school’s ASID Chapter. Amy also serves on various charity boards and is a consultant and investor in the local fashion and design industry in Cincinnati. As past President of Cincinnati Business Network, Amy enjoys networking with and mentoring other entrepreneurial business owners. She is also an active member of the OTR Chamber of Commerce, a member of the ArtsWave's Women's Leadership Roundtable, a founding member of the Contemporary Arts Center's prestigious Women's group, and a regular expert guest on local television. In addition, Amy has been named one of "Ohio's Top Interior Designers" by The LuxPad, an international publication specializing in high-end interior design. Her work is also regularly featured on HGTV.com. Amy has also been a featured speaker at NeoCon, an honor of being chosen among hundreds of interior designers. 

When Amy is not growing her eponymous firm, she enjoys traveling with her husband Tom and two teenagers as well as exploring the food and culture of Cincinnati. An avid fitness buff, she can be found at her trainer's studio or at a Pilates class. She is also a fashion lover and integrates it into her designs. Check out Amy's fashion, style, and local events blog, Cincinnista. Amy continues to accept prestigious art commissions as her schedule allows. Please view her work at amyyoungbloodsportsart.com.

Amy Youngblood Interiors is certified as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation's largest third party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the U.S.

Connect with Amy Youngblood

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#372: Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients

#820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No

]]> 4576 no 847: Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/847-flashback-friday-chris-loves-julia-quality-content-creation-is-key-to-their-success Today With Julia Marcum: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s show is a Flashback Friday, an episode from the archives that was so good, and so relevant, we wanted to share it with you again! I hope you enjoy Julia Marcum’s episode that originally aired as episode 480! Julia started blogging more than ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done.  In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. LuAnn Nigara and Julia Marcum's Ah-Ha Moments “There is zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence” - Julia Marcum “Maximize whatever you already have on hand” - Julia Marcum “Consistency is what really drives audiences, they want to know when and what they can expect from you” - Julia Marcum More About Julia Marcum: We’re a couple of progress-embracing home renovators, bloggers, brand ambassadors, and educators. We love: modern cottage design, s’mores around the fire pit, and our three cute kids (but not in that order). We started this blog in 2009, the year after we got married. But it wasn’t always a business! Like most bloggers back then, we were all about showing off our home projects and cute pictures of our kids. Our budget for home improvements was $20/month, and we were DIYing our hearts out (with borrowed tools). In 2015, we took Instagram by the horns and started photographing our home and our projects with a *real* camera. We started talking to our audience every day. We got really consistent with our content, and we took big, go-with-your-gut risks.  A year later, Chris quit his day job, and we were pinching ourselves: We get to work on our house as a *job*. And we get to work right alongside each other.  Looking back, I probably should have known that the girl who would beg the local bakery to let her design their store window (and get paid in cookies) would find a way to make a living out of making spaces beautiful — a truly sweet life. Connect with Julia Marcum Website Instagram  Good Influence Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Jessica Helgerson Instagram Josh Young Instagram Fri, 27 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success full 847 LuAnn Nigara Today With Julia Marcum: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s show is a Flashback Friday, an episode from the archives that was so good, and so relevant, we wanted to share it with you again! I hope you enjoy Julia Marcum’s episode that... Today With Julia Marcum: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s show is a Flashback Friday, an episode from the archives that was so good, and so relevant, we wanted to share it with you again! I hope you enjoy Julia Marcum’s episode that originally aired as episode 480! Julia started blogging more than ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done.  In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. LuAnn Nigara and Julia Marcum's Ah-Ha Moments “There is zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence” - Julia Marcum “Maximize whatever you already have on hand” - Julia Marcum “Consistency is what really drives audiences, they want to know when and what they can expect from you” - Julia Marcum More About Julia Marcum: We’re a couple of progress-embracing home renovators, bloggers, brand ambassadors, and educators. We love: modern cottage design, s’mores around the fire pit, and our three cute kids (but not in that order). We started this blog in 2009, the year after we got married. But it wasn’t always a business! Like most bloggers back then, we were all about showing off our home projects and cute pictures of our kids. Our budget for home improvements was $20/month, and we were DIYing our hearts out (with borrowed tools). In 2015, we took Instagram by the horns and started photographing our home and our projects with a *real* camera. We started talking to our audience every day. We got really consistent with our content, and we took big, go-with-your-gut risks.  A year later, Chris quit his day job, and we were pinching ourselves: We get to work on our house as a *job*. And we get to work right alongside each other.  Looking back, I probably should have known that the girl who would beg the local bakery to let her design their store window (and get paid in cookies) would find a way to make a living out of making spaces beautiful — a truly sweet life. Connect with Julia Marcum Website Instagram  Good Influence Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Jessica Helgerson Instagram Josh Young Instagram Today With Julia Marcum:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s show is a Flashback Friday, an episode from the archives that was so good, and so relevant, we wanted to share it with you again! I hope you enjoy Julia Marcum’s episode that originally aired as episode 480!

Julia started blogging more than ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done. 

In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for.

LuAnn Nigara and Julia Marcum's Ah-Ha Moments

“There is zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence” - Julia Marcum

“Maximize whatever you already have on hand” - Julia Marcum

“Consistency is what really drives audiences, they want to know when and what they can expect from you” - Julia Marcum

More About Julia Marcum:

We’re a couple of progress-embracing home renovators, bloggers, brand ambassadors, and educators. We love: modern cottage design, s’mores around the fire pit, and our three cute kids (but not in that order).

We started this blog in 2009, the year after we got married. But it wasn’t always a business! Like most bloggers back then, we were all about showing off our home projects and cute pictures of our kids. Our budget for home improvements was $20/month, and we were DIYing our hearts out (with borrowed tools).

In 2015, we took Instagram by the horns and started photographing our home and our projects with a *real* camera. We started talking to our audience every day. We got really consistent with our content, and we took big, go-with-your-gut risks. 

A year later, Chris quit his day job, and we were pinching ourselves: We get to work on our house as a *job*. And we get to work right alongside each other. 

Looking back, I probably should have known that the girl who would beg the local bakery to let her design their store window (and get paid in cookies) would find a way to make a living out of making spaces beautiful — a truly sweet life.

Connect with Julia Marcum

Website

Instagram 

Good Influence Courses

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Jessica Helgerson Instagram

Josh Young Instagram

]]> 4939 no 846: Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/846-kellie-burke-if-youre-not-failing-youre-not-risking Today With Kellie Burke: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Join me this week as I sit down with Kellie Burke, owner of Kellie Burke Interiors. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Tune in to hear about her journey, the importance of failure, and the ups and downs of having a business. LuAnn Nigara and Kellie Burke's Ah-Ha Moments “The failure comes the lessons.” - LuAnn Nigara “I think we mistakenly see all the beautiful things and believe that that is the business of it, and it’s not.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kellie Burke: Kellie studied design at Skidmore College in New York and overseas in Florence, Italy. While abroad, she soaked in the design principles associated with many different countries, including Portugal, Russia, Italy, France, Brussels, England, Estonia, and Scandinavia. After working as a studio artist and a faux painter, Kellie established her West Hartford, Connecticut-based interior design firm, Kellie Burke Interiors, in 1995. The firm expanded to include a design studio filled with trendy, high-style home products and accessories. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Instead, she gravitates toward an 'Old World' style with modern, functional accents. Kellie is also very aware of the needs of clients with families and coordinates her efforts to make sure her designs meet all of their practical needs. Kellie was featured in OK Magazine in 2005 for designing Brooke Burke's Mediterranean Mansion. Hartford Magazine has named Kellie Burke' Best Interior Designer' in 2006 - 2015 Readers Poll. Kellie has been featured in Luxe Interiors + Design, Hartford Magazine, New England Home, and was a national finalist in the 2015 Zillow Digs Design Awards. Connect with Kellie Burke Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success Tue, 24 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking full 846 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kellie Burke: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Join me this week as I sit down with Kellie Burke, owner of Kellie Burke Interiors. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home... Today With Kellie Burke: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Join me this week as I sit down with Kellie Burke, owner of Kellie Burke Interiors. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Tune in to hear about her journey, the importance of failure, and the ups and downs of having a business. LuAnn Nigara and Kellie Burke's Ah-Ha Moments “The failure comes the lessons.” - LuAnn Nigara “I think we mistakenly see all the beautiful things and believe that that is the business of it, and it’s not.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kellie Burke: Kellie studied design at Skidmore College in New York and overseas in Florence, Italy. While abroad, she soaked in the design principles associated with many different countries, including Portugal, Russia, Italy, France, Brussels, England, Estonia, and Scandinavia. After working as a studio artist and a faux painter, Kellie established her West Hartford, Connecticut-based interior design firm, Kellie Burke Interiors, in 1995. The firm expanded to include a design studio filled with trendy, high-style home products and accessories. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Instead, she gravitates toward an 'Old World' style with modern, functional accents. Kellie is also very aware of the needs of clients with families and coordinates her efforts to make sure her designs meet all of their practical needs. Kellie was featured in OK Magazine in 2005 for designing Brooke Burke's Mediterranean Mansion. Hartford Magazine has named Kellie Burke' Best Interior Designer' in 2006 - 2015 Readers Poll. Kellie has been featured in Luxe Interiors + Design, Hartford Magazine, New England Home, and was a national finalist in the 2015 Zillow Digs Design Awards. Connect with Kellie Burke Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success Today With Kellie Burke:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Join me this week as I sit down with Kellie Burke, owner of Kellie Burke Interiors. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Tune in to hear about her journey, the importance of failure, and the ups and downs of having a business.

LuAnn Nigara and Kellie Burke's Ah-Ha Moments

“The failure comes the lessons.” - LuAnn Nigara

“I think we mistakenly see all the beautiful things and believe that that is the business of it, and it’s not.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Kellie Burke:

Kellie studied design at Skidmore College in New York and overseas in Florence, Italy. While abroad, she soaked in the design principles associated with many different countries, including Portugal, Russia, Italy, France, Brussels, England, Estonia, and Scandinavia.

After working as a studio artist and a faux painter, Kellie established her West Hartford, Connecticut-based interior design firm, Kellie Burke Interiors, in 1995. The firm expanded to include a design studio filled with trendy, high-style home products and accessories. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Instead, she gravitates toward an 'Old World' style with modern, functional accents. Kellie is also very aware of the needs of clients with families and coordinates her efforts to make sure her designs meet all of their practical needs.

Kellie was featured in OK Magazine in 2005 for designing Brooke Burke's Mediterranean Mansion. Hartford Magazine has named Kellie Burke' Best Interior Designer' in 2006 - 2015 Readers Poll. Kellie has been featured in Luxe Interiors + Design, Hartford Magazine, New England Home, and was a national finalist in the 2015 Zillow Digs Design Awards.

Connect with Kellie Burke

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success

]]> 3436 no 845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/845-power-talk-friday-sandra-funk-stop-apologizing-and-start-communicating Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you ever found yourself apologizing for delays due to elements that are completely out of your control (backorders, supply chain issues, labor shortage, etc.)? My guest today, Sandra Funk, believes it’s time to stop apologizing.  Sandra shares her insights into why designers do this, why they need to stop, and how to take back control of your communication with your clients. Pick It Apart [1:30] Sandra picks apart why designers need to stop apologizing for things that are out of their control. [7:28] LuAnn and Sandra discuss why setting expectations upfront is important. [17:30] Sandra shares why and how she implements a restart fee when projects are delayed past a certain point.  [26:30] Sandra highlights the value of templates in the Interior Design Standard. [35:11] Sandra breaks down the upcoming opportunity to join the Interior Design Standard. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments “You need to communicate the facts, accept our new reality, and get strategic on how you are going to stretch what you thought was going to be a six-month project into a year-long project.” - Sandra Funk “Just because it’s not the client’s fault, doesn’t mean it’s your fault or your responsibility to bear the burden of all the chips that fall because of whatever you’re dealing with.” - LuAnn Nigara “You can’t change labor shortages, you can’t change supply chain issues, but you can change the way you describe it, the way you share the information, and the way you handle it internally, and that so much affects the way your client will handle it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Connect with Sandra Funk Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Fri, 20 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating full 845 LuAnn Nigara Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so... Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you ever found yourself apologizing for delays due to elements that are completely out of your control (backorders, supply chain issues, labor shortage, etc.)? My guest today, Sandra Funk, believes it’s time to stop apologizing.  Sandra shares her insights into why designers do this, why they need to stop, and how to take back control of your communication with your clients. Pick It Apart [1:30] Sandra picks apart why designers need to stop apologizing for things that are out of their control. [7:28] LuAnn and Sandra discuss why setting expectations upfront is important. [17:30] Sandra shares why and how she implements a restart fee when projects are delayed past a certain point.  [26:30] Sandra highlights the value of templates in the Interior Design Standard. [35:11] Sandra breaks down the upcoming opportunity to join the Interior Design Standard. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments “You need to communicate the facts, accept our new reality, and get strategic on how you are going to stretch what you thought was going to be a six-month project into a year-long project.” - Sandra Funk “Just because it’s not the client’s fault, doesn’t mean it’s your fault or your responsibility to bear the burden of all the chips that fall because of whatever you’re dealing with.” - LuAnn Nigara “You can’t change labor shortages, you can’t change supply chain issues, but you can change the way you describe it, the way you share the information, and the way you handle it internally, and that so much affects the way your client will handle it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Connect with Sandra Funk Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”.

I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business.

Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Today With Sandra Funk:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you ever found yourself apologizing for delays due to elements that are completely out of your control (backorders, supply chain issues, labor shortage, etc.)? My guest today, Sandra Funk, believes it’s time to stop apologizing. 

Sandra shares her insights into why designers do this, why they need to stop, and how to take back control of your communication with your clients.

Pick It Apart

[1:30] Sandra picks apart why designers need to stop apologizing for things that are out of their control.

[7:28] LuAnn and Sandra discuss why setting expectations upfront is important.

[17:30] Sandra shares why and how she implements a restart fee when projects are delayed past a certain point. 

[26:30] Sandra highlights the value of templates in the Interior Design Standard.

[35:11] Sandra breaks down the upcoming opportunity to join the Interior Design Standard.

LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk's Ah-Ha Moments

“You need to communicate the facts, accept our new reality, and get strategic on how you are going to stretch what you thought was going to be a six-month project into a year-long project.” - Sandra Funk

“Just because it’s not the client’s fault, doesn’t mean it’s your fault or your responsibility to bear the burden of all the chips that fall because of whatever you’re dealing with.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You can’t change labor shortages, you can’t change supply chain issues, but you can change the way you describe it, the way you share the information, and the way you handle it internally, and that so much affects the way your client will handle it.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Sandra Funk:

Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us.

This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style.

House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition.

Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design.

With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

Other Shows Mentioned:

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

]]> 3264 no 844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/844-john-mcclain-turn-failure-into-success Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest. John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it. Pick It Apart [6:38] John shares his dark night of the soul story involving client credit cards, attorneys, a factory fire, and armed guards. [20:35] John discusses the importance of knowing your company policies and non-negotiables, for example, he does not take credit card payments.  [31:40] John and LuAnn discuss the importance of formal agreements and transparency with clients. [35:41] LuAnn and John pick apart his pricing structure and flat fees, including his creative fee and project fulfillment fees.[57:29] John talks about the online courses for designers he offers, as well as his new book The Designer Within and the online course for homeowners that goes along with it. LuAnn Nigara and John McClain's Ah-Ha Moments “Until you've been through a serious business crisis, it's hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara  “I don't care if you're a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain “A lot of people don't take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain “You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” - John McClain More About John McClain: John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John's design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more. Connect with John McClain Website  Instagram Book and Designer Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity Tue, 17 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 John McClain: Turn Failure into Success full 844 LuAnn Nigara Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about... Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest. John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it. Pick It Apart [6:38] John shares his dark night of the soul story involving client credit cards, attorneys, a factory fire, and armed guards. [20:35] John discusses the importance of knowing your company policies and non-negotiables, for example, he does not take credit card payments.  [31:40] John and LuAnn discuss the importance of formal agreements and transparency with clients. [35:41] LuAnn and John pick apart his pricing structure and flat fees, including his creative fee and project fulfillment fees.[57:29] John talks about the online courses for designers he offers, as well as his new book The Designer Within and the online course for homeowners that goes along with it. LuAnn Nigara and John McClain's Ah-Ha Moments “Until you've been through a serious business crisis, it's hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara  “I don't care if you're a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain “A lot of people don't take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain “You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara “I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” - John McClain More About John McClain: John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John's design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more. Connect with John McClain Website  Instagram Book and Designer Courses What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity Today With John McClain:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest.

John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it.

Pick It Apart

[6:38] John shares his dark night of the soul story involving client credit cards, attorneys, a factory fire, and armed guards.

[20:35] John discusses the importance of knowing your company policies and non-negotiables, for example, he does not take credit card payments. 

[31:40] John and LuAnn discuss the importance of formal agreements and transparency with clients.

[35:41] LuAnn and John pick apart his pricing structure and flat fees, including his creative fee and project fulfillment fees.[57:29] John talks about the online courses for designers he offers, as well as his new book The Designer Within and the online course for homeowners that goes along with it.

LuAnn Nigara and John McClain's Ah-Ha Moments

“Until you've been through a serious business crisis, it's hard to know how it really cuts you in your gut.” – LuAnn Nigara 

“I don't care if you're a solopreneur or if you have 25 people working for you. Your company policy is your company policy. And that is what you have to stand by.” – John McClain

“A lot of people don't take the time to sit down and come up with the rules [of their business]. ” – John McClain

“You do have to take time—really getting clear with who you are, what you do, how you do it, why you do it, and your non-negotiables.” – LuAnn Nigara

“I want to be an advocate for other designers and out in the world, to really stand up for themselves. And to have a company philosophy, have a company vision have a company backbone that they can stand behind.” - John McClain

More About John McClain:

John McClain is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, speaker, on-air contributor, and writer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others through his book, The Designer Within (available now at thedesignerwithin.co). John McClain Design has offices in Central Florida and Los Angeles, CA. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John's design advice can also be seen regularly in print, television appearances, and online in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Us Weekly, and many more.

Connect with John McClain

Website 

Instagram

Book and Designer Courses

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

]]> 4701 no 843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/843-power-talk-friday-carla-titus-think-like-a-ceo-by-outsourcing-your-numbers Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability.  Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more. Pick It Apart [3:08] Carla walks through the roles of bookkeeper, CPA and CFO and the conversations you as a business owner should be having with each. [8:58] Carla and LuAnn discusses the goal of hiring a CFO and improving the financial picture of the company . [15:19] Carla talks about changing your mindset and thinking like the CEO of your business by looking at five key components in a framework she calls 2C3P: Cashflow, Capacity, Planning, Pay Compensation, and Profit. [24:42] LuAnn and Carla discuss the seasonality of business, and the importance of being in tune with this as a business owner. [31:32] Carla lists her non-negotiables she helps business owners set as goals for a successful business: cash in the bank, profitability, and paying yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus' Ah-Ha Moments “The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You're bringing that knowledge, and also that person that's going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus  “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara  “There's times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus “Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what's happening.” – Carla Titus  “If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus More About Carla Titus: Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy. She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results. Connect with Carla Titus Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? Fri, 13 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers full 843 LuAnn Nigara Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business... Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability.  Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more. Pick It Apart [3:08] Carla walks through the roles of bookkeeper, CPA and CFO and the conversations you as a business owner should be having with each. [8:58] Carla and LuAnn discusses the goal of hiring a CFO and improving the financial picture of the company . [15:19] Carla talks about changing your mindset and thinking like the CEO of your business by looking at five key components in a framework she calls 2C3P: Cashflow, Capacity, Planning, Pay Compensation, and Profit. [24:42] LuAnn and Carla discuss the seasonality of business, and the importance of being in tune with this as a business owner. [31:32] Carla lists her non-negotiables she helps business owners set as goals for a successful business: cash in the bank, profitability, and paying yourself. LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus' Ah-Ha Moments “The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You're bringing that knowledge, and also that person that's going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus  “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara  “There's times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus “Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what's happening.” – Carla Titus  “If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus More About Carla Titus: Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy. She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results. Connect with Carla Titus Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s #395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business #464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? Today With Carla Titus:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability. 

Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more.

Pick It Apart

[3:08] Carla walks through the roles of bookkeeper, CPA and CFO and the conversations you as a business owner should be having with each.

[8:58] Carla and LuAnn discusses the goal of hiring a CFO and improving the financial picture of the company .

[15:19] Carla talks about changing your mindset and thinking like the CEO of your business by looking at five key components in a framework she calls 2C3P: Cashflow, Capacity, Planning, Pay Compensation, and Profit.

[24:42] LuAnn and Carla discuss the seasonality of business, and the importance of being in tune with this as a business owner.

[31:32] Carla lists her non-negotiables she helps business owners set as goals for a successful business: cash in the bank, profitability, and paying yourself.

LuAnn Nigara and Carla Titus' Ah-Ha Moments

“The beauty of bringing an expert into your business is that you do not need to know everything. That is the whole point of outsourcing your finances. You're bringing that knowledge, and also that person that's going to guide the process from beginning to end, [to] make you feel empowered and comfortable around your finances and your numbers.” – Carla Titus

 “Don’t overthink what you don’t know.” – LuAnn Nigara 

“There's times where you need to step into that CEO role and work on your business, not in your business.” – Carla Titus

“Managing the influx and outflows of cash really can help a business be more financially stable, but also feel completely in control of what's happening.” – Carla Titus 

“If you want to sell your business one day, if you want to run a successful long term company, there has to be a salary for someone that is in charge.” – Carla Titus

More About Carla Titus:

Finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and established online businesses fractional CFO consulting experience. Our company provides a vast array of on-demand CFO services that leverage our industry expertise. A well-rounded CFO team with Finance, Sales & Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, Online Business, Operations, Execution, Planning, and Tech background.

She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners. Wealth & Worth Within’s mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy.

She is dedicated to imparting financial knowledge in order to properly manage finances and achieve profitable results. She has applied that expertise to businesses, helping them grow by creating simple yet effective systems to improve cash flow management and bottom-line results.

Connect with Carla Titus

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living

#719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s

#395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business

#464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

#361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO?

]]> 3429 no 842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/842-joshua-smith-sell-the-experiences-not-the-commodity Today With Joshua Smith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Joshua Smith, of Joshua Smith Inc. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Join us for a great conversation about the power of meditation, the importance of being connected to your passion, and his amazing working philosophy! LuAnn Nigara and Joshua Smith's Ah-Ha Moments “It's the responsibility of the industry to educate the consumer” - LuAnn Nigara “We’re wanting to do what we can to make sure that we’re leaving the world as best we can for our kids” - Joshua Smith “You know what? I realize now that as an interior designer, you’re responsible for everything but you have control over nothing” - Joshua Smith “It's not just how you want to space to look, it’s how you want your space to feel” - Joshua Smith More About Joshua Smith: Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”.  With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Connect with Joshua Smith Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog The “3 fives” routine What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 10 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity full 842 LuAnn Nigara Today With Joshua Smith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Joshua Smith, of Joshua Smith Inc. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish... Today With Joshua Smith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Joshua Smith, of Joshua Smith Inc. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Join us for a great conversation about the power of meditation, the importance of being connected to your passion, and his amazing working philosophy! LuAnn Nigara and Joshua Smith's Ah-Ha Moments “It's the responsibility of the industry to educate the consumer” - LuAnn Nigara “We’re wanting to do what we can to make sure that we’re leaving the world as best we can for our kids” - Joshua Smith “You know what? I realize now that as an interior designer, you’re responsible for everything but you have control over nothing” - Joshua Smith “It's not just how you want to space to look, it’s how you want your space to feel” - Joshua Smith More About Joshua Smith: Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”.  With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Connect with Joshua Smith Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog The “3 fives” routine What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Joshua Smith:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Joshua Smith, of Joshua Smith Inc. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day.

Join us for a great conversation about the power of meditation, the importance of being connected to your passion, and his amazing working philosophy!

LuAnn Nigara and Joshua Smith's Ah-Ha Moments

“It's the responsibility of the industry to educate the consumer” - LuAnn Nigara

“We’re wanting to do what we can to make sure that we’re leaving the world as best we can for our kids” - Joshua Smith

“You know what? I realize now that as an interior designer, you’re responsible for everything but you have control over nothing” - Joshua Smith

“It's not just how you want to space to look, it’s how you want your space to feel” - Joshua Smith

More About Joshua Smith:

Joshua graduated from the New York School of Interior Design and started his career in 2012. After Joshua graduated, he joined Steven Gambrel, an influential interior design firm that specialized in high-end residential and commercial commissions worldwide. In 2013, Joshua Smith, Inc. was created and earned national recognition as featured in New York Times, Huffington Post, and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”. 

With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day.

Connect with Joshua Smith

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Blog

The “3 fives” routine

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3868 no 841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/841-power-talk-friday-nancy-ganzekaufer-profit-insiders-for-interior-designers-group-coaching-mastermind Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is here to talk about her new program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind which is packed full of value. But also, Nancy is here to share how certain events in her life forced her to slow down and how she shares her lessons with others on the importance of a work-life balance. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “Slow and steady is going to win the race. The small tweaks you make in your business can have huge outcomes.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer  “You don’t want your business to be your entire life, you want your business to support your life” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “Your inner being knows when it’s time to slow down and the universe will comply.” - LuAnn Nigara “We do all put pressure on ourselves and we need to ask the question, “who can help?” - LuAnn Nigara More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence.  In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts.  Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York.  Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.    Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program Confident Interior Designer Membership Site The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool Interior Design Contract Templates Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business #60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula #584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Fri, 06 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind full 841 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is here to talk about her new program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching +... Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is here to talk about her new program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind which is packed full of value. But also, Nancy is here to share how certain events in her life forced her to slow down and how she shares her lessons with others on the importance of a work-life balance. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “Slow and steady is going to win the race. The small tweaks you make in your business can have huge outcomes.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer  “You don’t want your business to be your entire life, you want your business to support your life” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “Your inner being knows when it’s time to slow down and the universe will comply.” - LuAnn Nigara “We do all put pressure on ourselves and we need to ask the question, “who can help?” - LuAnn Nigara More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence.  In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts.  Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York.  Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.    Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program Confident Interior Designer Membership Site The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool Interior Design Contract Templates Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn YouTube Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business #60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula #584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is here to talk about her new program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind which is packed full of value. But also, Nancy is here to share how certain events in her life forced her to slow down and how she shares her lessons with others on the importance of a work-life balance.

LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments

“Slow and steady is going to win the race. The small tweaks you make in your business can have huge outcomes.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer 

“You don’t want your business to be your entire life, you want your business to support your life” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

“Your inner being knows when it’s time to slow down and the universe will comply.” - LuAnn Nigara

“We do all put pressure on ourselves and we need to ask the question, “who can help?” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business Coach, Speaker, Body Language Trainer, and Author, named one of the Top 16 Coaches in New York in 2022! Nancy specializes in coaching interior design professionals in marketing strategies, sales, and systems, teaching them to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. 

In addition to her own book Respond with Confidence: A Business Owner’s Blueprint for Handling Difficult Situations, Nancy is an author in LuAnn Nigara’s book, The Making of A Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action. Nancy has also been a 4-time guest on LuAnn’s podcast, A Well-Designed Business® and one of LuAnn’s past Power Talk Friday experts. 

Nancy is the founding President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) Virtual Chapter, Executive IDS Board Member-at-Large, and was the first recipient of the IDS Outstanding Leadership Award for her 12 years of active participation in national leadership and her local chapter in Long Island, New York. 

Nancy specializes in coaching Interior Design industry professionals how to maximize their profitability while identifying and best serving their ideal clients with confidence. Through her proven techniques, Nancy has empowered thousands to know (and charge!) their worth, succeed in sales without feeling sales-y, and position themselves in their market with authenticity and authority.   

Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer

Website

Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind program

Confident Interior Designer Membership Site

The KEY™: The Designer's Ultimate Pricing Tool

Interior Design Contract Templates

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

YouTube

Other Shows Mentioned:

#15: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich

#37: Lesley Myrick: Strategies I Used to Build My Business

#60: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself)

#159: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: How to Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

#389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Designer Profit Formula

#584: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

#766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

#783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers.

]]> 3323 no 840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/840-jean-stoffer-work-in-harmony-through-every-season-of-life Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer. Pick It Apart [6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace. [10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in. [16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business. [27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business. [48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television. LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer's Ah-Ha Moments “Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” - Jean Stoffer. “I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” - Jean Stoffer. “I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” - LuAnn Nigara. “It's very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” - LuAnn Nigara. More About Jean Stoffer: Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients' lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean's own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work. Connect with Jean Stoffer Website Stoffer Home Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #625: Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography Tue, 03 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000 Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life full 840 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released... Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer. Pick It Apart [6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace. [10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in. [16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business. [27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business. [48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television. LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer's Ah-Ha Moments “Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” - Jean Stoffer. “I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” - Jean Stoffer. “I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” - LuAnn Nigara. “It's very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” - LuAnn Nigara. More About Jean Stoffer: Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients' lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean's own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work. Connect with Jean Stoffer Website Stoffer Home Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #625: Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family #563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography Today With Jean Stoffer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer.

Pick It Apart

[6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace.

[10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in.

[16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business.

[27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance of processes as you grow your business.

[48:00] Jean discusses working with the Magnolia Network and putting her work on television.

LuAnn Nigara and Jean Stoffer's Ah-Ha Moments

“Our value system and reputation are just so bedrock for me and our family.” - Jean Stoffer.

“I really believe there are seasons for things, and it’s great to embrace those and accept them.” - Jean Stoffer.

“I think as a society, we are putting pressure on moms to think that you can have it all. And you actually can, but not all in the same season is my belief.” - LuAnn Nigara.

“It's very important that the quality and all of the things connected with [your brand] remain as close as to your original vision and way of doing it.” - LuAnn Nigara.

More About Jean Stoffer:

Jean Stoffer is an award-winning Grand Rapids-based independent interior designer specializing in kitchen and bath designs. Each of her designs is custom suited for her clients' lives and how they hope to use their home. Jean is also the founder of Stoffer Home, a retail store featuring beautiful and functional items for the home, and Stoffer Home Cabinetry, the source for Jean's own line of quality, British-inspired flush inset cabinets. In December 2021, the Magnolia Network began airing The Established Home, a TV series featuring Jean and her design work.

Connect with Jean Stoffer

Website

Stoffer Home

Instagram 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#625: Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family

#563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

]]> 4228 no 839: Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/839-flashback-friday-candice-olson-how-to-be-an-overnight-success-in-25-years Today With Candice Olson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Candice Olson's episode that originally aired as episode 74! On today’s show, Candice talks about her journey and how she became successful! More About Candice Olson: With over 25 years experience as an Interior Designer, Candice Olson has imparted her distinctively timeless yet on-trend aesthetic on countless residential and commercial projects. With the goal of showcasing the beauty, business and behind-the-scenes world of Interior Design and renovation, Candice launched her first hit TV show – Divine Design – on HGTV. After 8 seasons of number one ratings, Candice followed up with her second show – Candice Tells All – that delved deeper into Candice’s unique design inspiration and process. It also became a number one hit leading the NY Times to herald her as “the one to watch”! With her shows broadcast in over 75 countries around the world, millions have come to know and love Candice’s signature style and trademark sense of humour. She is considered to be a pre-eminent design authority and has authored a series of six best-selling interior design books. As Candice’s popularity grew so did the demand for her signature “Candice Olson Look”. This led to the creation of a broad collection of successful home fashion collections that reflect Candice’s distinctive, design style – an approach that is at once classic yet contemporary, sophisticated while accessible. The products embody Candice’s attitude of everyday elegance and are immensely popular amongst Interior designers and consumers alike. Connect with Candice Olson Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #74: Candice Olson – How To Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Fri, 30 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Candice Olson: How to Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years full 839 LuAnn Nigara Today With Candice Olson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Candice Olson's episode that originally aired as episode 74! On... Today With Candice Olson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Candice Olson's episode that originally aired as episode 74! On today’s show, Candice talks about her journey and how she became successful! More About Candice Olson: With over 25 years experience as an Interior Designer, Candice Olson has imparted her distinctively timeless yet on-trend aesthetic on countless residential and commercial projects. With the goal of showcasing the beauty, business and behind-the-scenes world of Interior Design and renovation, Candice launched her first hit TV show – Divine Design – on HGTV. After 8 seasons of number one ratings, Candice followed up with her second show – Candice Tells All – that delved deeper into Candice’s unique design inspiration and process. It also became a number one hit leading the NY Times to herald her as “the one to watch”! With her shows broadcast in over 75 countries around the world, millions have come to know and love Candice’s signature style and trademark sense of humour. She is considered to be a pre-eminent design authority and has authored a series of six best-selling interior design books. As Candice’s popularity grew so did the demand for her signature “Candice Olson Look”. This led to the creation of a broad collection of successful home fashion collections that reflect Candice’s distinctive, design style – an approach that is at once classic yet contemporary, sophisticated while accessible. The products embody Candice’s attitude of everyday elegance and are immensely popular amongst Interior designers and consumers alike. Connect with Candice Olson Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #74: Candice Olson – How To Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years Today With Candice Olson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Candice Olson's episode that originally aired as episode 74!

On today’s show, Candice talks about her journey and how she became successful!

More About Candice Olson:

With over 25 years experience as an Interior Designer, Candice Olson has imparted her distinctively timeless yet on-trend aesthetic on countless residential and commercial projects.

With the goal of showcasing the beauty, business and behind-the-scenes world of Interior Design and renovation, Candice launched her first hit TV show – Divine Design – on HGTV. After 8 seasons of number one ratings, Candice followed up with her second show – Candice Tells All – that delved deeper into Candice’s unique design inspiration and process. It also became a number one hit leading the NY Times to herald her as “the one to watch”!

With her shows broadcast in over 75 countries around the world, millions have come to know and love Candice’s signature style and trademark sense of humour. She is considered to be a pre-eminent design authority and has authored a series of six best-selling interior design books.

As Candice’s popularity grew so did the demand for her signature “Candice Olson Look”. This led to the creation of a broad collection of successful home fashion collections that reflect Candice’s distinctive, design style – an approach that is at once classic yet contemporary, sophisticated while accessible. The products embody Candice’s attitude of everyday elegance and are immensely popular amongst Interior designers and consumers alike.

Connect with Candice Olson

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#74: Candice Olson – How To Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years

]]> 4201 no 838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/838-regan-baker-building-a-team-that-supports-your-core-values Today With Regan Baker: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Regan Baker, of Regan Baker Design. Have you ever had that client where you thought, “we could be friends!” How about that client where you noticed and were impressed with their work ethic? Why not employ them? That’s what Regan did and with three employees that were once clients of hers, she admits she wouldn’t be where she is today without them.  Join us for a great conversation about strong leadership and building a team from places you don’t usually expect. Pick It Apart [4:39] Regan’s first experience turning a client into an employee.  [15:18] Regan’s experience of when her long term goals have changed as time goes on. [24:34] The milestones were that developed the ROI in Regan’s business. [29:01] How Regan got another client of hers, Lindsay, on board as an employee. [34:19] How Regan realistically pays people like Allie and Lindsay. LuAnn Nigara and Regan Baker's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a firm believe that you risk things for people who you think are going to help transform your business.” - Regan Baker “If you don’t have those people to help guide you, then you can’t focus on the things you want to do.” - Regan Baker “The people you invest in, even if you don’t have a role for them, you know that they can jump in and make it work.” - Regan Baker “An effective director of operations doesn’t have to come from a design background. Business is business.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Regan Baker: Regan Baker leads Regan Baker Design with 20 years of experience in Interior Architecture and Design. She firmly believes that design should be comfortable, modern, and personal, and strives to bring these aspects to every project she works on. After spending the first 7 years of her career at high-end hospitality and commercial firms, she began to understand her unique style and skillset were applicable on a more intimate scale in residential design. As a fashion-forward and design-savvy mom, she knows that personal style and lifestyle function are equally important features in a home, and believes in creating spaces that are an extension of who you are as an individual or family. When not designing, you can find Regan outdoors either running or watching her sporty kids, and hanging with family and friends. After becoming a mother of twins over twelve years ago, her life has taken on a new priority: to inspire her children to do what they love and go after a passion in life. Regan laughs often, becomes friends with all her clients, and has a goal in life to be a nice person. Connect with Regan Baker Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #150: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Design Team #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan Tue, 27 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values full 838 LuAnn Nigara Today With Regan Baker: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Regan Baker, of Regan Baker Design. Have you ever had that client where you thought, “we could be friends!” How about that client where you noticed and were... Today With Regan Baker: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Regan Baker, of Regan Baker Design. Have you ever had that client where you thought, “we could be friends!” How about that client where you noticed and were impressed with their work ethic? Why not employ them? That’s what Regan did and with three employees that were once clients of hers, she admits she wouldn’t be where she is today without them.  Join us for a great conversation about strong leadership and building a team from places you don’t usually expect. Pick It Apart [4:39] Regan’s first experience turning a client into an employee.  [15:18] Regan’s experience of when her long term goals have changed as time goes on. [24:34] The milestones were that developed the ROI in Regan’s business. [29:01] How Regan got another client of hers, Lindsay, on board as an employee. [34:19] How Regan realistically pays people like Allie and Lindsay. LuAnn Nigara and Regan Baker's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a firm believe that you risk things for people who you think are going to help transform your business.” - Regan Baker “If you don’t have those people to help guide you, then you can’t focus on the things you want to do.” - Regan Baker “The people you invest in, even if you don’t have a role for them, you know that they can jump in and make it work.” - Regan Baker “An effective director of operations doesn’t have to come from a design background. Business is business.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Regan Baker: Regan Baker leads Regan Baker Design with 20 years of experience in Interior Architecture and Design. She firmly believes that design should be comfortable, modern, and personal, and strives to bring these aspects to every project she works on. After spending the first 7 years of her career at high-end hospitality and commercial firms, she began to understand her unique style and skillset were applicable on a more intimate scale in residential design. As a fashion-forward and design-savvy mom, she knows that personal style and lifestyle function are equally important features in a home, and believes in creating spaces that are an extension of who you are as an individual or family. When not designing, you can find Regan outdoors either running or watching her sporty kids, and hanging with family and friends. After becoming a mother of twins over twelve years ago, her life has taken on a new priority: to inspire her children to do what they love and go after a passion in life. Regan laughs often, becomes friends with all her clients, and has a goal in life to be a nice person. Connect with Regan Baker Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #150: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Design Team #622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan Today With Regan Baker:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Regan Baker, of Regan Baker Design. Have you ever had that client where you thought, “we could be friends!” How about that client where you noticed and were impressed with their work ethic? Why not employ them? That’s what Regan did and with three employees that were once clients of hers, she admits she wouldn’t be where she is today without them. 

Join us for a great conversation about strong leadership and building a team from places you don’t usually expect.

Pick It Apart

[4:39] Regan’s first experience turning a client into an employee. 

[15:18] Regan’s experience of when her long term goals have changed as time goes on.

[24:34] The milestones were that developed the ROI in Regan’s business.

[29:01] How Regan got another client of hers, Lindsay, on board as an employee.

[34:19] How Regan realistically pays people like Allie and Lindsay.

LuAnn Nigara and Regan Baker's Ah-Ha Moments

“I’m a firm believe that you risk things for people who you think are going to help transform your business.” - Regan Baker

“If you don’t have those people to help guide you, then you can’t focus on the things you want to do.” - Regan Baker

“The people you invest in, even if you don’t have a role for them, you know that they can jump in and make it work.” - Regan Baker

“An effective director of operations doesn’t have to come from a design background. Business is business.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Regan Baker:

Regan Baker leads Regan Baker Design with 20 years of experience in Interior Architecture and Design. She firmly believes that design should be comfortable, modern, and personal, and strives to bring these aspects to every project she works on. After spending the first 7 years of her career at high-end hospitality and commercial firms, she began to understand her unique style and skillset were applicable on a more intimate scale in residential design. As a fashion-forward and design-savvy mom, she knows that personal style and lifestyle function are equally important features in a home, and believes in creating spaces that are an extension of who you are as an individual or family.

When not designing, you can find Regan outdoors either running or watching her sporty kids, and hanging with family and friends. After becoming a mother of twins over twelve years ago, her life has taken on a new priority: to inspire her children to do what they love and go after a passion in life. Regan laughs often, becomes friends with all her clients, and has a goal in life to be a nice person.

Connect with Regan Baker

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#150: Power Talk Friday: Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful!

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Design Team

#622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

#823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan

]]> 3432 no 837: Flashback Friday: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/837-flashback-friday-nicole-gibbons-interior-designer-tv-personality-founder-and-ceo-of-clare Today With Nicole Gibbons: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nicole Gibbons’ episode that originally aired as episode 411! On today’s show, Nicole talks about how she created her career by design, how TV really doesn’t pay as much as you would expect, the way that Nicole helps people with their color choice, and so much more! More About Nicole Gibbons: Nicole Gibbons is an interior designer, tastemaker, blogger and on-air personality best known for her fashion-forward point of view on style for the home. As a highly sought after expert, Nicole has been featured in top media outlets such as HGTV, TLC, The Rachael Ray Show, InStyle, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, Lonny, People Magazine, Domino, Elle Decor and more. She can also be seen helping deserving families re-imagine their living spaces as a designer on the Emmy Award-winning TV show Home Made Simple airing Saturday mornings on OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network. Nicole has also collaborated on special projects with top home and lifestyle brands including American Express, Lowe’s Home Improvement, GODIVA, Target & Pier 1 Imports. Originally from Michigan, Nicole earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and lives in Harlem, a historic neighborhood in upper Manhattan. With a lifelong passion for design coupled with a fun, unpretentious approach to decorating and a strong media presence, this designer-to-watch is quickly earning a reputation as the voice of decorating for a new generation of passionate home enthusiasts. Connect with Nicole Gibbons Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #411: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare #406: Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung #407: Century Furniture with Carrier & Co #408: Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet Other Resources Mentioned: Clare Article.com Fri, 23 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare full 837 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nicole Gibbons: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nicole Gibbons’ episode that originally aired as episode 411! On... Today With Nicole Gibbons: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nicole Gibbons’ episode that originally aired as episode 411! On today’s show, Nicole talks about how she created her career by design, how TV really doesn’t pay as much as you would expect, the way that Nicole helps people with their color choice, and so much more! More About Nicole Gibbons: Nicole Gibbons is an interior designer, tastemaker, blogger and on-air personality best known for her fashion-forward point of view on style for the home. As a highly sought after expert, Nicole has been featured in top media outlets such as HGTV, TLC, The Rachael Ray Show, InStyle, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, Lonny, People Magazine, Domino, Elle Decor and more. She can also be seen helping deserving families re-imagine their living spaces as a designer on the Emmy Award-winning TV show Home Made Simple airing Saturday mornings on OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network. Nicole has also collaborated on special projects with top home and lifestyle brands including American Express, Lowe’s Home Improvement, GODIVA, Target & Pier 1 Imports. Originally from Michigan, Nicole earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and lives in Harlem, a historic neighborhood in upper Manhattan. With a lifelong passion for design coupled with a fun, unpretentious approach to decorating and a strong media presence, this designer-to-watch is quickly earning a reputation as the voice of decorating for a new generation of passionate home enthusiasts. Connect with Nicole Gibbons Website Instagram Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #411: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare #406: Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung #407: Century Furniture with Carrier & Co #408: Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet Other Resources Mentioned: Clare Article.com Today With Nicole Gibbons:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nicole Gibbons’ episode that originally aired as episode 411!

On today’s show, Nicole talks about how she created her career by design, how TV really doesn’t pay as much as you would expect, the way that Nicole helps people with their color choice, and so much more!

More About Nicole Gibbons:

Nicole Gibbons is an interior designer, tastemaker, blogger and on-air personality best known for her fashion-forward point of view on style for the home. As a highly sought after expert, Nicole has been featured in top media outlets such as HGTV, TLC, The Rachael Ray Show, InStyle, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, Lonny, People Magazine, Domino, Elle Decor and more. She can also be seen helping deserving families re-imagine their living spaces as a designer on the Emmy Award-winning TV show Home Made Simple airing Saturday mornings on OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network.

Nicole has also collaborated on special projects with top home and lifestyle brands including American Express, Lowe’s Home Improvement, GODIVA, Target & Pier 1 Imports. Originally from Michigan, Nicole earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and lives in Harlem, a historic neighborhood in upper Manhattan. With a lifelong passion for design coupled with a fun, unpretentious approach to decorating and a strong media presence, this designer-to-watch is quickly earning a reputation as the voice of decorating for a new generation of passionate home enthusiasts.

Connect with Nicole Gibbons

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#411: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare

#406: Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung

#407: Century Furniture with Carrier & Co

#408: Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet

Other Resources Mentioned:

Clare

Article.com

]]> 2435 no 836: Susie Novak: Mastering Your Success With A Mastermind http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/836-susie-novak-mastering-your-success-with-a-mastermind Today With Susie Novak: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am speaking with Susie Novak, owner of Susie Novak Interiors on a variety of topics. One being what it’s like being a part of a mastermind group. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic to be a part of a mastermind. And hey, why not start your own? Susie has a good size design team too, so we also talk team tips, sustainability and networking.  Pick It Apart [1:50] Susie shares with us how she formed her mastermind group. [11:20] How accountability plays a role in her mastermind. [25:10] LuAnn and Susie discuss the importance of having diversity within a group. [35:03] Susie shares tips on how to manage a big team. [39:20] Tips on how to drum up more business.  [46:27] What sustainability means for Susie in her business. LuAnn Nigara and Susie Novak's Ah-Ha Moments “I think you find balance in unique ways.” - Susie Novak “If you can put a room together, but also explain the global perspective of using higher quality pieces that are built to last and can be reupholstered, that's a win win for clients, our Earth and our profitability.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Susie Novak: Susie’s aesthetic is a combination of California Modern with a British flair. Known for her love of clean neutrals, bold pops of color and modern sculptural forms, Susie’s work has been nationally and internationally recognized in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Modern Luxury Silicon Valley, WSJ and more. Skilled at creating beautiful residential designs under a variety of budgets, styles, timeframes, and requirements, Susie guides her clients through every phase of the design process. Originally trained as an artist, Susie transitioned into the Interior Design world in 2016 after receiving her certification from the Interior Design and Architecture program at UC Berkeley. She calls Oakland, California home where she lives in a 1920’s Tudor remodel with her husband and two daughters. California is an abundant source of inspiration for a life in design and Susie is continually pulling ideas from her travels including many in her home state. Connect with Susie Novak Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #296: Ruthie Staalsen: Find Your Mojo & Your Designer Bestie at an Industry Conference #553: What Would Lu Do?: When Clients Don’t Understand the Value Of Full Service Design #722: What Would Lu Do?: Feeling Undervalued and Taken Advantage Of #784: Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path- From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design Sass Says #63 - LuAnn Nigara: Tuning Into Your Inner Goddess Voice to Guide You in Motherhood, Marriage and Ambition Tue, 20 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Susie Novak: Mastering Your Success With A Mastermind full 836 LuAnn Nigara Today With Susie Novak: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am speaking with Susie Novak, owner of Susie Novak Interiors on a variety of topics. One being what it’s like being a part of a mastermind group. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic to... Today With Susie Novak: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am speaking with Susie Novak, owner of Susie Novak Interiors on a variety of topics. One being what it’s like being a part of a mastermind group. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic to be a part of a mastermind. And hey, why not start your own? Susie has a good size design team too, so we also talk team tips, sustainability and networking.  Pick It Apart [1:50] Susie shares with us how she formed her mastermind group. [11:20] How accountability plays a role in her mastermind. [25:10] LuAnn and Susie discuss the importance of having diversity within a group. [35:03] Susie shares tips on how to manage a big team. [39:20] Tips on how to drum up more business.  [46:27] What sustainability means for Susie in her business. LuAnn Nigara and Susie Novak's Ah-Ha Moments “I think you find balance in unique ways.” - Susie Novak “If you can put a room together, but also explain the global perspective of using higher quality pieces that are built to last and can be reupholstered, that's a win win for clients, our Earth and our profitability.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Susie Novak: Susie’s aesthetic is a combination of California Modern with a British flair. Known for her love of clean neutrals, bold pops of color and modern sculptural forms, Susie’s work has been nationally and internationally recognized in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Modern Luxury Silicon Valley, WSJ and more. Skilled at creating beautiful residential designs under a variety of budgets, styles, timeframes, and requirements, Susie guides her clients through every phase of the design process. Originally trained as an artist, Susie transitioned into the Interior Design world in 2016 after receiving her certification from the Interior Design and Architecture program at UC Berkeley. She calls Oakland, California home where she lives in a 1920’s Tudor remodel with her husband and two daughters. California is an abundant source of inspiration for a life in design and Susie is continually pulling ideas from her travels including many in her home state. Connect with Susie Novak Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #296: Ruthie Staalsen: Find Your Mojo & Your Designer Bestie at an Industry Conference #553: What Would Lu Do?: When Clients Don’t Understand the Value Of Full Service Design #722: What Would Lu Do?: Feeling Undervalued and Taken Advantage Of #784: Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path- From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design Sass Says #63 - LuAnn Nigara: Tuning Into Your Inner Goddess Voice to Guide You in Motherhood, Marriage and Ambition Today With Susie Novak:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am speaking with Susie Novak, owner of Susie Novak Interiors on a variety of topics. One being what it’s like being a part of a mastermind group. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic to be a part of a mastermind. And hey, why not start your own? Susie has a good size design team too, so we also talk team tips, sustainability and networking. 

Pick It Apart

[1:50] Susie shares with us how she formed her mastermind group.

[11:20] How accountability plays a role in her mastermind.

[25:10] LuAnn and Susie discuss the importance of having diversity within a group.

[35:03] Susie shares tips on how to manage a big team.

[39:20] Tips on how to drum up more business. 

[46:27] What sustainability means for Susie in her business.

LuAnn Nigara and Susie Novak's Ah-Ha Moments

“I think you find balance in unique ways.” - Susie Novak

“If you can put a room together, but also explain the global perspective of using higher quality pieces that are built to last and can be reupholstered, that's a win win for clients, our Earth and our profitability.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Susie Novak:

Susie’s aesthetic is a combination of California Modern with a British flair. Known for her love of clean neutrals, bold pops of color and modern sculptural forms, Susie’s work has been nationally and internationally recognized in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Modern Luxury Silicon Valley, WSJ and more.

Skilled at creating beautiful residential designs under a variety of budgets, styles, timeframes, and requirements, Susie guides her clients through every phase of the design process. Originally trained as an artist, Susie transitioned into the Interior Design world in 2016 after receiving her certification from the Interior Design and Architecture program at UC Berkeley. She calls Oakland, California home where she lives in a 1920’s Tudor remodel with her husband and two daughters. California is an abundant source of inspiration for a life in design and Susie is continually pulling ideas from her travels including many in her home state.

Connect with Susie Novak

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#296: Ruthie Staalsen: Find Your Mojo & Your Designer Bestie at an Industry Conference

#553: What Would Lu Do?: When Clients Don’t Understand the Value Of Full Service Design

#722: What Would Lu Do?: Feeling Undervalued and Taken Advantage Of

#784: Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path- From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design

Sass Says #63 - LuAnn Nigara: Tuning Into Your Inner Goddess Voice to Guide You in Motherhood, Marriage and Ambition

]]> 3621 no 835: Flashback Friday: Michelle Nussbaumer: Less Is Never More http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/835-flashback-friday-michelle-nussbaumer-less-is-never-more Today With Michelle Nussbaumer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Nussbaumer’s episode that originally aired as episode 124! On today’s show, Michelle talks about her career, her opinions on the business, and her globetrotting lifestyle. Enjoy! More About Michelle Nussbaumer: Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Connect with Michelle Nussbaumer Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #124: Michelle Nussbaumer- Owner & Lead Designer of Ceylon et Cie Fri, 16 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Michelle Nussbaumer: Less Is Never More full 835 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Nussbaumer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Nussbaumer’s episode that originally aired as... Today With Michelle Nussbaumer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Nussbaumer’s episode that originally aired as episode 124! On today’s show, Michelle talks about her career, her opinions on the business, and her globetrotting lifestyle. Enjoy! More About Michelle Nussbaumer: Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Connect with Michelle Nussbaumer Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #124: Michelle Nussbaumer- Owner & Lead Designer of Ceylon et Cie Today With Michelle Nussbaumer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Nussbaumer’s episode that originally aired as episode 124!

On today’s show, Michelle talks about her career, her opinions on the business, and her globetrotting lifestyle. Enjoy!

More About Michelle Nussbaumer:

Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels.

Connect with Michelle Nussbaumer

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#124: Michelle Nussbaumer- Owner & Lead Designer of Ceylon et Cie

]]> 3561 no 834: Paul Mencel: Rockstar Advice, From a Real Life Rockstar On Running a Profitable Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/834-paul-mencel-rockstar-advice-from-a-real-life-rockstar-on-running-a-profitable-business Today With Paul Mencel: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show we have Paul Mencel, a former rock star and the craftsman/entrepreneur behind the gorgeous handmade furnishings at Philadelphia Table Company. What started as a side job between his music tours has grown into a seven-figure business, and Paul is here to tell us how important it is to hire wisely, pay attention to the business end of operations, and price your goods and services appropriately in order to remain profitable. Paul believes in asking for help when you need it, learning from your mistakes, and the power of mindset. He says that everything he knows about business he learned by being a rockstar, so this is a really fun conversation. Pick It Apart [4:28] Paul talks about being a working musician and starting his woodworking business to support himself in between tours and gigs, explaining how the business has grown to a team of six with Paul admitting he is now the least talented member of the team. [9:10] Paul talks about learning and growing the business through trial and error, and how skills he learned during his career as a rock star transferred into his current business [15:00] LuAnn explains about learning from mistakes instead of processing them as failures, prompting Paul to tell the story of his $100K “business school lesson” [19:30] Paul and LuAnn discuss sustainable pricing, being willing to accept “no”, and knowing your value and worth [29:35] Paul explains the abundance theory, relating his mindset shifts around the uniqueness and luxury of his products, his responsibility to his employees, and how these are both important parts of his pricing structure [38:20] LuAnn shares her own perspective on the importance of operating within sustainable profit margins LuAnn Nigara and Paul Mencel's Ah-Ha Moments “We're trying to build something that's bigger than ourselves. And in order to do that, we need to hire people that are bigger than ourselves. So I give my team a ton of credit.” – Paul Mencel “You kind of have to stay humble and admit what you don't know. And really just kind of ask for help when you need it.” – Paul Mencel “That's how I was brought up too. Anytime I like made a mistake, or something, my dad would be like, well, that's a $500 lesson on how to not pop your tire…this is a $5,000 lesson in, you know, not to use this type of wood again.” - Paul Mencel “The through line, the result [of getting more “no’s” than you are used to] is that the yes’s are your ideal client and they have a better appreciation, and they probably are much more enjoyable to work with.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Paul Mencel: Paul is a creator and a doer with a passion for teaching. He hopes to inspire and teach others how they too, are and can, be creators and doers.  Since a young age, he had always worked for myself in some capacity. Driven by the desire to control when and how he makes money, Paul was dedicated to building side hustles while working for various bosses. The first time he realized he could control the way he makes money was at the age of 14 as resident lawn mower in his neighborhood. He began to understand that the more effort and work he put in, the more money he could earn. Managing his own hours and income allowed Paul the time to pursue his passion for music and play in a rock band, “Bel Heir”. While the band’s main focus was original music and touring, it also doubled as a cover band on Friday and Saturday nights. The band is what really got me excited about business creation in the long term. He was excited by the idea of growing a business in the creative industry, by figuring out how to book the next gig, get on that playlist, and tour with bands they had admired from afar. The drive for himself and his bandmates eventually led to a record deal with RCA records and a Publishing deal with Pulse Recordings. Although Paul did not realize it at the time, the rock band he pursued as a creative outlet was actually a thriving business, and their product was music and live performance. While signed to RCA, the excitement of building the band as a business-led Paul to a career in music artist management, and he started one of my current businesses: LookUp Ent. With LookUp Ent. Paul earned several platinum plaques and landed a top10 radio hit, with the song “Roses” by The Chainsmokers (written and performed by his client and sister ROZES.) In between touring and recording with his band he started another small side hustle: custom built furniture. At the time, Paul was building items just for mine and his wife’s apartment, as they could not afford the expensive items they wished to fill their first home. The furniture company, Philadelphia Table Company, grew quickly through word of mouth. Paul started building furniture for his friends, then his friends of friends and eventually to complete strangers. He started in his dad’s garage and within four years the company expanded to a 3,000 square foot warehouse with four full-time employees that they are quickly outgrowing. The company now grosses over a 3/4 of a million dollars a year and has become Paul’s main source of income. Connect with Paul Mencel Website  Instagram  Dream and Build What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #814: Michelle Lynn: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business #672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Designer #337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees #696: Lisa Princic: Uncovering the Value Proposition in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 13 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Paul Mencel: Rockstar Advice, From a Real Life Rockstar On Running a Profitable Business full 834 LuAnn Nigara Today With Paul Mencel: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show we have Paul Mencel, a former rock star and the craftsman/entrepreneur behind the gorgeous handmade furnishings at Philadelphia Table Company. What started as a side job... Today With Paul Mencel: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show we have Paul Mencel, a former rock star and the craftsman/entrepreneur behind the gorgeous handmade furnishings at Philadelphia Table Company. What started as a side job between his music tours has grown into a seven-figure business, and Paul is here to tell us how important it is to hire wisely, pay attention to the business end of operations, and price your goods and services appropriately in order to remain profitable. Paul believes in asking for help when you need it, learning from your mistakes, and the power of mindset. He says that everything he knows about business he learned by being a rockstar, so this is a really fun conversation. Pick It Apart [4:28] Paul talks about being a working musician and starting his woodworking business to support himself in between tours and gigs, explaining how the business has grown to a team of six with Paul admitting he is now the least talented member of the team. [9:10] Paul talks about learning and growing the business through trial and error, and how skills he learned during his career as a rock star transferred into his current business [15:00] LuAnn explains about learning from mistakes instead of processing them as failures, prompting Paul to tell the story of his $100K “business school lesson” [19:30] Paul and LuAnn discuss sustainable pricing, being willing to accept “no”, and knowing your value and worth [29:35] Paul explains the abundance theory, relating his mindset shifts around the uniqueness and luxury of his products, his responsibility to his employees, and how these are both important parts of his pricing structure [38:20] LuAnn shares her own perspective on the importance of operating within sustainable profit margins LuAnn Nigara and Paul Mencel's Ah-Ha Moments “We're trying to build something that's bigger than ourselves. And in order to do that, we need to hire people that are bigger than ourselves. So I give my team a ton of credit.” – Paul Mencel “You kind of have to stay humble and admit what you don't know. And really just kind of ask for help when you need it.” – Paul Mencel “That's how I was brought up too. Anytime I like made a mistake, or something, my dad would be like, well, that's a $500 lesson on how to not pop your tire…this is a $5,000 lesson in, you know, not to use this type of wood again.” - Paul Mencel “The through line, the result [of getting more “no’s” than you are used to] is that the yes’s are your ideal client and they have a better appreciation, and they probably are much more enjoyable to work with.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Paul Mencel: Paul is a creator and a doer with a passion for teaching. He hopes to inspire and teach others how they too, are and can, be creators and doers.  Since a young age, he had always worked for myself in some capacity. Driven by the desire to control when and how he makes money, Paul was dedicated to building side hustles while working for various bosses. The first time he realized he could control the way he makes money was at the age of 14 as resident lawn mower in his neighborhood. He began to understand that the more effort and work he put in, the more money he could earn. Managing his own hours and income allowed Paul the time to pursue his passion for music and play in a rock band, “Bel Heir”. While the band’s main focus was original music and touring, it also doubled as a cover band on Friday and Saturday nights. The band is what really got me excited about business creation in the long term. He was excited by the idea of growing a business in the creative industry, by figuring out how to book the next gig, get on that playlist, and tour with bands they had admired from afar. The drive for himself and his bandmates eventually led to a record deal with RCA records and a Publishing deal with Pulse Recordings. Although Paul did not realize it at the time, the rock band he pursued as a creative outlet was actually a thriving business, and their product was music and live performance. While signed to RCA, the excitement of building the band as a business-led Paul to a career in music artist management, and he started one of my current businesses: LookUp Ent. With LookUp Ent. Paul earned several platinum plaques and landed a top10 radio hit, with the song “Roses” by The Chainsmokers (written and performed by his client and sister ROZES.) In between touring and recording with his band he started another small side hustle: custom built furniture. At the time, Paul was building items just for mine and his wife’s apartment, as they could not afford the expensive items they wished to fill their first home. The furniture company, Philadelphia Table Company, grew quickly through word of mouth. Paul started building furniture for his friends, then his friends of friends and eventually to complete strangers. He started in his dad’s garage and within four years the company expanded to a 3,000 square foot warehouse with four full-time employees that they are quickly outgrowing. The company now grosses over a 3/4 of a million dollars a year and has become Paul’s main source of income. Connect with Paul Mencel Website  Instagram  Dream and Build What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #814: Michelle Lynn: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business #672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Designer #337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees #696: Lisa Princic: Uncovering the Value Proposition in Your Interior Design Business Today With Paul Mencel:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show we have Paul Mencel, a former rock star and the craftsman/entrepreneur behind the gorgeous handmade furnishings at Philadelphia Table Company. What started as a side job between his music tours has grown into a seven-figure business, and Paul is here to tell us how important it is to hire wisely, pay attention to the business end of operations, and price your goods and services appropriately in order to remain profitable.

Paul believes in asking for help when you need it, learning from your mistakes, and the power of mindset. He says that everything he knows about business he learned by being a rockstar, so this is a really fun conversation.

Pick It Apart

[4:28] Paul talks about being a working musician and starting his woodworking business to support himself in between tours and gigs, explaining how the business has grown to a team of six with Paul admitting he is now the least talented member of the team.

[9:10] Paul talks about learning and growing the business through trial and error, and how skills he learned during his career as a rock star transferred into his current business

[15:00] LuAnn explains about learning from mistakes instead of processing them as failures, prompting Paul to tell the story of his $100K “business school lesson”

[19:30] Paul and LuAnn discuss sustainable pricing, being willing to accept “no”, and knowing your value and worth

[29:35] Paul explains the abundance theory, relating his mindset shifts around the uniqueness and luxury of his products, his responsibility to his employees, and how these are both important parts of his pricing structure

[38:20] LuAnn shares her own perspective on the importance of operating within sustainable profit margins

LuAnn Nigara and Paul Mencel's Ah-Ha Moments

“We're trying to build something that's bigger than ourselves. And in order to do that, we need to hire people that are bigger than ourselves. So I give my team a ton of credit.” – Paul Mencel

“You kind of have to stay humble and admit what you don't know. And really just kind of ask for help when you need it.” – Paul Mencel

“That's how I was brought up too. Anytime I like made a mistake, or something, my dad would be like, well, that's a $500 lesson on how to not pop your tire…this is a $5,000 lesson in, you know, not to use this type of wood again.” - Paul Mencel

“The through line, the result [of getting more “no’s” than you are used to] is that the yes’s are your ideal client and they have a better appreciation, and they probably are much more enjoyable to work with.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Paul Mencel:

Paul is a creator and a doer with a passion for teaching. He hopes to inspire and teach others how they too, are and can, be creators and doers.

 Since a young age, he had always worked for myself in some capacity. Driven by the desire to control when and how he makes money, Paul was dedicated to building side hustles while working for various bosses. The first time he realized he could control the way he makes money was at the age of 14 as resident lawn mower in his neighborhood. He began to understand that the more effort and work he put in, the more money he could earn.

Managing his own hours and income allowed Paul the time to pursue his passion for music and play in a rock band, “Bel Heir”. While the band’s main focus was original music and touring, it also doubled as a cover band on Friday and Saturday nights. The band is what really got me excited about business creation in the long term. He was excited by the idea of growing a business in the creative industry, by figuring out how to book the next gig, get on that playlist, and tour with bands they had admired from afar. The drive for himself and his bandmates eventually led to a record deal with RCA records and a Publishing deal with Pulse Recordings. Although Paul did not realize it at the time, the rock band he pursued as a creative outlet was actually a thriving business, and their product was music and live performance.

While signed to RCA, the excitement of building the band as a business-led Paul to a career in music artist management, and he started one of my current businesses: LookUp Ent. With LookUp Ent. Paul earned several platinum plaques and landed a top10 radio hit, with the song “Roses” by The Chainsmokers (written and performed by his client and sister ROZES.)

In between touring and recording with his band he started another small side hustle: custom built furniture. At the time, Paul was building items just for mine and his wife’s apartment, as they could not afford the expensive items they wished to fill their first home. The furniture company, Philadelphia Table Company, grew quickly through word of mouth. Paul started building furniture for his friends, then his friends of friends and eventually to complete strangers. He started in his dad’s garage and within four years the company expanded to a 3,000 square foot warehouse with four full-time employees that they are quickly outgrowing. The company now grosses over a 3/4 of a million dollars a year and has become Paul’s main source of income.

Connect with Paul Mencel

Website 

Instagram 

Dream and Build

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#814: Michelle Lynn: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business

#672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Designer

#337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees

#696: Lisa Princic: Uncovering the Value Proposition in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3362 no 833: Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/833-flashback-friday-mikel-welch-be-determined-and-get-the-job-done Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297! On today's show, Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel. More About Mikel Welch: As a young boy growing up in Southfield, Michigan, Mikel Welch busied himself with the construction of sofas and dining tables using toy Legos for imaginary houses. It was evident to his family that an innate sense of creativity and a passion for design were embedded in Mikel from birth. Today Welch runs a New York based interior design business, Mikel Welch Designs, and works as a host and design expert on Quibi's Murder House Flip. On camera, Mikel shows viewers tips and tricks for renovating homes, designing sophisticated spaces and creating luxury looks at affordable prices. Mikel is a former on-air personality of TLC’s Trading Spaces, and his designs have been featured on HGTV, The Real Housewives Of Atlanta and Good Morning America. In January 2020, House Beautiful named Mikel as one of the 2020 NEXT WAVE designers. His work has also been featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Elle Decor, People, The New York Times and several other shelter magazines. Mikel has also had the honor of designing lavish VIP green rooms for prominent personalities, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, Harry Connick Jr., Joan Rivers and Halle Berry. Connect with Mikel Welch Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man Fri, 09 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Mikel Welch: Be Determined and Get the Job Done full 833 LuAnn Nigara Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297! On... Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297! On today's show, Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel. More About Mikel Welch: As a young boy growing up in Southfield, Michigan, Mikel Welch busied himself with the construction of sofas and dining tables using toy Legos for imaginary houses. It was evident to his family that an innate sense of creativity and a passion for design were embedded in Mikel from birth. Today Welch runs a New York based interior design business, Mikel Welch Designs, and works as a host and design expert on Quibi's Murder House Flip. On camera, Mikel shows viewers tips and tricks for renovating homes, designing sophisticated spaces and creating luxury looks at affordable prices. Mikel is a former on-air personality of TLC’s Trading Spaces, and his designs have been featured on HGTV, The Real Housewives Of Atlanta and Good Morning America. In January 2020, House Beautiful named Mikel as one of the 2020 NEXT WAVE designers. His work has also been featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Elle Decor, People, The New York Times and several other shelter magazines. Mikel has also had the honor of designing lavish VIP green rooms for prominent personalities, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, Harry Connick Jr., Joan Rivers and Halle Berry. Connect with Mikel Welch Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man Today With Mikel Welch:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297!

On today's show, Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel.

More About Mikel Welch:

As a young boy growing up in Southfield, Michigan, Mikel Welch busied himself with the construction of sofas and dining tables using toy Legos for imaginary houses. It was evident to his family that an innate sense of creativity and a passion for design were embedded in Mikel from birth.

Today Welch runs a New York based interior design business, Mikel Welch Designs, and works as a host and design expert on Quibi's Murder House Flip. On camera, Mikel shows viewers tips and tricks for renovating homes, designing sophisticated spaces and creating luxury looks at affordable prices. Mikel is a former on-air personality of TLC’s Trading Spaces, and his designs have been featured on HGTV, The Real Housewives Of Atlanta and Good Morning America.

In January 2020, House Beautiful named Mikel as one of the 2020 NEXT WAVE designers. His work has also been featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Elle Decor, People, The New York Times and several other shelter magazines. Mikel has also had the honor of designing lavish VIP green rooms for prominent personalities, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, Harry Connick Jr., Joan Rivers and Halle Berry.

Connect with Mikel Welch

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man

]]> 4802 no 832: Christie Fleming: From Occupational Therapy to Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/832-christie-fleming-from-occupational-therapy-to-interior-design Today With Christie Fleming: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design.  If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and interior design, I would have thought you were telling a joke. But for Christie, her experience as an OT led to her perfect niche, the one that let her leave her old career and strike out as the go-to designer for Aging in Place design. Pick It Apart [1:56] Christie shares how she went from occupational therapist to interior design.  [6:52] LuAnn and Christie discuss the value in working for another firm at the beginning of your career.  [14:03] Christie talks about how she stumbled onto her goldmine niche. [17:45] Christie discusses Aging in Place Design and what it entails.  [35:58] Christie shares how she markets such a specific niche. LuAnn Nigara and Christie Fleming's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a huge proponent of working for another firm. Some of the most successful designers I have interviewed stayed with other firms for 5 or 6 years. There’s a difference there when you work for another firm, even for just one year. You’re seeing more than you would have on your own.” -LuAnn “I didn’t know how much OT and interior design truly overlap until I really got into the business aspect of it. I just knew that my area was so saturated and I wanted to figure out how to make myself stand out from other designers.” -Christie “I get this question all the time. People will say, ‘I don’t know how to figure otu what my Fred Berns only or my transferable skill or my pot of gold.’ One of the big things is just to get quiet with yourself and to just really keep insisting on going through a mental inventory of all the things that make you you.” -LuAnn More About Christie Fleming: Christie Fleming is the Owner and Principal Designer of Lennon Nora Interior Design based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lennon Nora Interior Design is a full-service residential interior design firm with a focus on primary residences and vacation homes serving Philadelphia, PA, the Jersey Shore and all surrounding areas. Christie is a valued Allied Member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Designer Society of America and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders. She has a unique healthcare background where she practiced as an Occupational Therapist for many years and has now created a successful interior design business where her clinical expertise has created a new avenue for potential design projects. Connect with Christie Fleming Website  Instagram  Facebook  How to get your CAPS designation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 06 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Christie Fleming: From Occupational Therapy to Interior Design full 832 LuAnn Nigara Today With Christie Fleming: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design.  If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and... Today With Christie Fleming: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design.  If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and interior design, I would have thought you were telling a joke. But for Christie, her experience as an OT led to her perfect niche, the one that let her leave her old career and strike out as the go-to designer for Aging in Place design. Pick It Apart [1:56] Christie shares how she went from occupational therapist to interior design.  [6:52] LuAnn and Christie discuss the value in working for another firm at the beginning of your career.  [14:03] Christie talks about how she stumbled onto her goldmine niche. [17:45] Christie discusses Aging in Place Design and what it entails.  [35:58] Christie shares how she markets such a specific niche. LuAnn Nigara and Christie Fleming's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a huge proponent of working for another firm. Some of the most successful designers I have interviewed stayed with other firms for 5 or 6 years. There’s a difference there when you work for another firm, even for just one year. You’re seeing more than you would have on your own.” -LuAnn “I didn’t know how much OT and interior design truly overlap until I really got into the business aspect of it. I just knew that my area was so saturated and I wanted to figure out how to make myself stand out from other designers.” -Christie “I get this question all the time. People will say, ‘I don’t know how to figure otu what my Fred Berns only or my transferable skill or my pot of gold.’ One of the big things is just to get quiet with yourself and to just really keep insisting on going through a mental inventory of all the things that make you you.” -LuAnn More About Christie Fleming: Christie Fleming is the Owner and Principal Designer of Lennon Nora Interior Design based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lennon Nora Interior Design is a full-service residential interior design firm with a focus on primary residences and vacation homes serving Philadelphia, PA, the Jersey Shore and all surrounding areas. Christie is a valued Allied Member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Designer Society of America and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders. She has a unique healthcare background where she practiced as an Occupational Therapist for many years and has now created a successful interior design business where her clinical expertise has created a new avenue for potential design projects. Connect with Christie Fleming Website  Instagram  Facebook  How to get your CAPS designation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today With Christie Fleming:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design. 

If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and interior design, I would have thought you were telling a joke. But for Christie, her experience as an OT led to her perfect niche, the one that let her leave her old career and strike out as the go-to designer for Aging in Place design.

Pick It Apart

[1:56] Christie shares how she went from occupational therapist to interior design. 

[6:52] LuAnn and Christie discuss the value in working for another firm at the beginning of your career. 

[14:03] Christie talks about how she stumbled onto her goldmine niche.

[17:45] Christie discusses Aging in Place Design and what it entails. 

[35:58] Christie shares how she markets such a specific niche.

LuAnn Nigara and Christie Fleming's Ah-Ha Moments

“I’m a huge proponent of working for another firm. Some of the most successful designers I have interviewed stayed with other firms for 5 or 6 years. There’s a difference there when you work for another firm, even for just one year. You’re seeing more than you would have on your own.” -LuAnn

“I didn’t know how much OT and interior design truly overlap until I really got into the business aspect of it. I just knew that my area was so saturated and I wanted to figure out how to make myself stand out from other designers.” -Christie

“I get this question all the time. People will say, ‘I don’t know how to figure otu what my Fred Berns only or my transferable skill or my pot of gold.’ One of the big things is just to get quiet with yourself and to just really keep insisting on going through a mental inventory of all the things that make you you.” -LuAnn

More About Christie Fleming:

Christie Fleming is the Owner and Principal Designer of Lennon Nora Interior Design based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lennon Nora Interior Design is a full-service residential interior design firm with a focus on primary residences and vacation homes serving Philadelphia, PA, the Jersey Shore and all surrounding areas. Christie is a valued Allied Member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Designer Society of America and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders. She has a unique healthcare background where she practiced as an Occupational Therapist for many years and has now created a successful interior design business where her clinical expertise has created a new avenue for potential design projects.

Connect with Christie Fleming

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

How to get your CAPS designation

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 3227 no 831: Flashback Friday: Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/831-flashback-friday-nate-berkus-the-importance-of-creating-an-exceptional-client-experience Today With Nate Berkus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433!  In today’s show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate’s travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate’s approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah. More About Nate Berkus: Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018.  Connect with Nate Berkus Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet Fri, 02 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience full 831 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nate Berkus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433!  In... Today With Nate Berkus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433!  In today’s show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate’s travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate’s approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah. More About Nate Berkus: Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018.  Connect with Nate Berkus Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet Today With Nate Berkus:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433! 

In today’s show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate’s travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate’s approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah.

More About Nate Berkus:

Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018. 

Connect with Nate Berkus

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

]]> 3962 no 830: Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/830-anne-gillyard-capitalizing-on-your-you-to-grow-your-interior-design-business Today With Anne Gillyard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Anne Gillyard, co-owner of grOH! Playrooms, a luxury educational design firm. Anne had humongous growth in her business after doing some self-reflection and making an investment in her business. After listening to A Well Designed Business, she learned about Rachael Bozsik and Darla Powell and decided to work with them. She shares what she has learned and how much her business has grown in just one year of making moves. Pick It Apart [18:04] The time Anne had her business before meeting Rachael.  [28:50] Anne’s journey working with Darla and Wingnut Social.  [40:10] Anne explains her role of reflection and how it plays a role in her success.  [43:55] Anne talks about what factors of an autopsy of a project that she reviews in order to achieve her goals. LuAnn Nigara and Anne Gillyard's Ah-Ha Moments “What Rachael helped me do was identify the messaging that resonates with my clients.” - Anne Gillyard “When I identify the next thing that’s going to help me help my team and my brand grow, I seek an expert.” - Anne Gillyard “Plan where you want to go. In order to know where you want to go, you have to figure out where you have been and what has and has not worked.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Anne Gillyard: Before becoming an innovative playroom designer, Anne earned a master’s degree in early childhood development and curriculum. She spent a decade teaching and training other educational professionals across the country, focusing on STEM learning, problem-based learning, Montessori-style classroom environments, social emotional skills, and 21st century learning. She also developed a national curriculum for play-based learning that continues to be taught in 45 states. During this time, she identified a disconnect between how children play at home and the critical thinking skills needed for success in school and as members of society. She saw the answer was in transforming the home play environment. Fueled by her passion for play and learning, Anne co-founded grOH! Playrooms in 2018. Connect with Anne Gillyard Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #301: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #630: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Tue, 29 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Anne Gillyard: Capitalizing on Your “You” to Grow Your Interior Design Business full 830 LuAnn Nigara Today With Anne Gillyard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Anne Gillyard, co-owner of grOH! Playrooms, a luxury educational design firm. Anne had humongous growth in her business after doing some self-reflection and making an... Today With Anne Gillyard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Anne Gillyard, co-owner of grOH! Playrooms, a luxury educational design firm. Anne had humongous growth in her business after doing some self-reflection and making an investment in her business. After listening to A Well Designed Business, she learned about Rachael Bozsik and Darla Powell and decided to work with them. She shares what she has learned and how much her business has grown in just one year of making moves. Pick It Apart [18:04] The time Anne had her business before meeting Rachael.  [28:50] Anne’s journey working with Darla and Wingnut Social.  [40:10] Anne explains her role of reflection and how it plays a role in her success.  [43:55] Anne talks about what factors of an autopsy of a project that she reviews in order to achieve her goals. LuAnn Nigara and Anne Gillyard's Ah-Ha Moments “What Rachael helped me do was identify the messaging that resonates with my clients.” - Anne Gillyard “When I identify the next thing that’s going to help me help my team and my brand grow, I seek an expert.” - Anne Gillyard “Plan where you want to go. In order to know where you want to go, you have to figure out where you have been and what has and has not worked.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Anne Gillyard: Before becoming an innovative playroom designer, Anne earned a master’s degree in early childhood development and curriculum. She spent a decade teaching and training other educational professionals across the country, focusing on STEM learning, problem-based learning, Montessori-style classroom environments, social emotional skills, and 21st century learning. She also developed a national curriculum for play-based learning that continues to be taught in 45 states. During this time, she identified a disconnect between how children play at home and the critical thinking skills needed for success in school and as members of society. She saw the answer was in transforming the home play environment. Fueled by her passion for play and learning, Anne co-founded grOH! Playrooms in 2018. Connect with Anne Gillyard Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #301: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #630: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing Today With Anne Gillyard:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Anne Gillyard, co-owner of grOH! Playrooms, a luxury educational design firm. Anne had humongous growth in her business after doing some self-reflection and making an investment in her business. After listening to A Well Designed Business, she learned about Rachael Bozsik and Darla Powell and decided to work with them. She shares what she has learned and how much her business has grown in just one year of making moves.

Pick It Apart

[18:04] The time Anne had her business before meeting Rachael. 

[28:50] Anne’s journey working with Darla and Wingnut Social. 

[40:10] Anne explains her role of reflection and how it plays a role in her success. 

[43:55] Anne talks about what factors of an autopsy of a project that she reviews in order to achieve her goals.

LuAnn Nigara and Anne Gillyard's Ah-Ha Moments

“What Rachael helped me do was identify the messaging that resonates with my clients.” - Anne Gillyard

“When I identify the next thing that’s going to help me help my team and my brand grow, I seek an expert.” - Anne Gillyard

“Plan where you want to go. In order to know where you want to go, you have to figure out where you have been and what has and has not worked.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Anne Gillyard:

Before becoming an innovative playroom designer, Anne earned a master’s degree in early childhood development and curriculum. She spent a decade teaching and training other educational professionals across the country, focusing on STEM learning, problem-based learning, Montessori-style classroom environments, social emotional skills, and 21st century learning. She also developed a national curriculum for play-based learning that continues to be taught in 45 states. During this time, she identified a disconnect between how children play at home and the critical thinking skills needed for success in school and as members of society. She saw the answer was in transforming the home play environment. Fueled by her passion for play and learning, Anne co-founded grOH! Playrooms in 2018.

Connect with Anne Gillyard

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

#301: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

#630: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

]]> 3671 no 829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Fly the Plane While You Build It! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/829-power-talk-friday-terri-taylor-fly-the-plane-while-you-build-it Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri Taylor is back to keep inspiring every single one of us! Today we talk about how did the Interior Design Business Academy start, and tells us about the IDBA Coaching & Education programs! More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website  Instagram  Blog Interior Design Business Podcast with Terri Taylor Other Shows Mentioned: #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Design Fees VS Hourly Billing — Why Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Fri, 25 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Fly the Plane While You Build It! full 829 LuAnn Nigara Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri Taylor is back to keep inspiring every single one of us! Today we talk... Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri Taylor is back to keep inspiring every single one of us! Today we talk about how did the Interior Design Business Academy start, and tells us about the IDBA Coaching & Education programs! More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website  Instagram  Blog Interior Design Business Podcast with Terri Taylor Other Shows Mentioned: #813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Design Fees VS Hourly Billing — Why Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Today with Terri Taylor: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy.

Terri Taylor is back to keep inspiring every single one of us! Today we talk about how did the Interior Design Business Academy start, and tells us about the IDBA Coaching & Education programs!

More About Terri Taylor:

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri Taylor

Website 

Instagram 

Blog

Interior Design Business Podcast with Terri Taylor

Other Shows Mentioned:

#813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Design Fees VS Hourly Billing — Why Are Flat Fees the Way to Go?

#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth

#710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

#662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy

#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit

#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

]]> 3415 no 828: Claire Ownby: How to Efficiently Run a Large Luxury Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/828-claire-ownby-how-to-efficiently-run-a-large-luxury-interior-design-firm Today With Claire Ownby: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design, makes running a large, successful firm look easy. But it only appears that way because she has worked so hard to create flawless systems and processes that keep everything running smoothly. She’s sharing how she does it, and how she stays true to herself in her business in the process. Pick It Apart [1:07] Claire shares how she has worked to perfect her systems. [7:05] Claire gives insight into how she manages to produce high-quality work for so many projects within time and budget constraints.  [15:11] Claire and LuAnn discuss having tough conversations with team members.  [25:08] Claire breaks down the success of her firm.  [33:02] Claire discusses what’s next on the horizon. LuAnn Nigara and Claire Ownby's Ah-Ha Moments “Making sure that your team’s culture embodies appreciation of everybody else’s work is important, and that’s not something that just happens. It has to be talked about in every team meeting. It has to be demonstrated, not just by myself, but by my senior team members as well.” -Claire “That’s the thing—when we have hard conversations, regardless of how hard it is, if we’ve done it with respect and care and all the things, even if in the moment there isn’t agreement, when it actually is the right thing to do, eventually there’s acknowledgement that comes back.” -LuAnn More About Claire Ownby: Ownby Design is an industry leading luxury interior design firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our mission is to always deliver a flawless product that is a true reflection of the client’s vision. We strive to transform everyday living spaces into one-of-a-kind indulgences, with a unique fusion of minimalism and lavishness. Our commitment to detail and budget-saving efficiency makes us one of the most sought after firms in the Valley. Our team has been recognized with numerous industry and community awards for residential designs. We continually deliver beautiful and functional spaces that go beyond our client’s needs and expectations. Connect with Claire Ownby Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #658: Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms #580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #615 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Tue, 22 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Claire Ownby: How to Efficiently Run a Large Luxury Interior Design Firm full 828 LuAnn Nigara Today With Claire Ownby: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design, makes running a large, successful firm look easy. But it only appears that way because she has worked so hard to create flawless systems and... Today With Claire Ownby: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design, makes running a large, successful firm look easy. But it only appears that way because she has worked so hard to create flawless systems and processes that keep everything running smoothly. She’s sharing how she does it, and how she stays true to herself in her business in the process. Pick It Apart [1:07] Claire shares how she has worked to perfect her systems. [7:05] Claire gives insight into how she manages to produce high-quality work for so many projects within time and budget constraints.  [15:11] Claire and LuAnn discuss having tough conversations with team members.  [25:08] Claire breaks down the success of her firm.  [33:02] Claire discusses what’s next on the horizon. LuAnn Nigara and Claire Ownby's Ah-Ha Moments “Making sure that your team’s culture embodies appreciation of everybody else’s work is important, and that’s not something that just happens. It has to be talked about in every team meeting. It has to be demonstrated, not just by myself, but by my senior team members as well.” -Claire “That’s the thing—when we have hard conversations, regardless of how hard it is, if we’ve done it with respect and care and all the things, even if in the moment there isn’t agreement, when it actually is the right thing to do, eventually there’s acknowledgement that comes back.” -LuAnn More About Claire Ownby: Ownby Design is an industry leading luxury interior design firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our mission is to always deliver a flawless product that is a true reflection of the client’s vision. We strive to transform everyday living spaces into one-of-a-kind indulgences, with a unique fusion of minimalism and lavishness. Our commitment to detail and budget-saving efficiency makes us one of the most sought after firms in the Valley. Our team has been recognized with numerous industry and community awards for residential designs. We continually deliver beautiful and functional spaces that go beyond our client’s needs and expectations. Connect with Claire Ownby Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement #658: Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms #580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process #615 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process #649 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective Today With Claire Ownby:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design, makes running a large, successful firm look easy. But it only appears that way because she has worked so hard to create flawless systems and processes that keep everything running smoothly. She’s sharing how she does it, and how she stays true to herself in her business in the process.

Pick It Apart

[1:07] Claire shares how she has worked to perfect her systems.

[7:05] Claire gives insight into how she manages to produce high-quality work for so many projects within time and budget constraints. 

[15:11] Claire and LuAnn discuss having tough conversations with team members. 

[25:08] Claire breaks down the success of her firm. 

[33:02] Claire discusses what’s next on the horizon.

LuAnn Nigara and Claire Ownby's Ah-Ha Moments

“Making sure that your team’s culture embodies appreciation of everybody else’s work is important, and that’s not something that just happens. It has to be talked about in every team meeting. It has to be demonstrated, not just by myself, but by my senior team members as well.” -Claire

“That’s the thing—when we have hard conversations, regardless of how hard it is, if we’ve done it with respect and care and all the things, even if in the moment there isn’t agreement, when it actually is the right thing to do, eventually there’s acknowledgement that comes back.” -LuAnn

More About Claire Ownby:

Ownby Design is an industry leading luxury interior design firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Our mission is to always deliver a flawless product that is a true reflection of the client’s vision. We strive to transform everyday living spaces into one-of-a-kind indulgences, with a unique fusion of minimalism and lavishness. Our commitment to detail and budget-saving efficiency makes us one of the most sought after firms in the Valley.

Our team has been recognized with numerous industry and community awards for residential designs. We continually deliver beautiful and functional spaces that go beyond our client’s needs and expectations.

Connect with Claire Ownby

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

#766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

#658: Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms

#580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#615 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#649 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

]]> 3456 no 827: Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/827-power-talk-friday-bart-anestin-a-marketing-framework-for-interior-designers Today With Bart Anestin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Bart Anestin, owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast.  Marketing can be challenging with all of the other “hats” we have to wear as interior designers. Bart is here to help us with stress free strategies for design agencies, big and small, that will allow you to focus on your clients projects and not struggle with balancing working for your business while working ON your business. Pick It Apart [5:01] Bart shares the similarities that different designers/brands share across the board that he helps them with. [14:00] Bart explains how clarity in your goals and vision helps your marketing. [21:40] Bart explains how a digital roadmap can help when we get flustered on what and how many platforms we should be doing. [29:40] How being clear on what you offer leads to confidence.  [39:33] Bart talks about his podcast The More Life. LuAnn Nigara and Bart Anestin's Ah-Ha Moments “Most businesses, big or small, don’t have a solid marketing strategy.” - Bart Anestin “One of the values of our company is that we don’t talk about clients, we talk about people because we are helping someone. If we refer to them just as an “invoice” then it isn’t a genuine interaction. Look at it from how your business can help their business.” - Bart Anestin “When you're confident in your messaging and your process, that's when you can implement a lot of different things because your marketing assets are there supporting everything else.” - Bart Anestin “The branding and marketing world has been democratized because of social media.” - Bart Anestin More About Bart Anestin: Bart Anestin is the owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast. He’s passionate about helping brands tell their story in today’s connected world. Form, function, and awesome clients are the perfect recipe for design, brand alignment, and strategic digital marketing. Bart’s creative approach finds solutions that are mindful, intentional and beautifully crafted. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him at home chasing after his two kids and rewatching episodes of Seinfeld for the umpteenth time. #serenitynow Connect with Bart Anestin Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours. #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Window Treatments for Profit: #87 Joe Gebara: Living Life to its Fullest and Run a Successful Window Treatment Business Fri, 18 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers full 827 LuAnn Nigara Today With Bart Anestin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Bart Anestin, owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast.  Marketing can be challenging with all... Today With Bart Anestin: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Bart Anestin, owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast.  Marketing can be challenging with all of the other “hats” we have to wear as interior designers. Bart is here to help us with stress free strategies for design agencies, big and small, that will allow you to focus on your clients projects and not struggle with balancing working for your business while working ON your business. Pick It Apart [5:01] Bart shares the similarities that different designers/brands share across the board that he helps them with. [14:00] Bart explains how clarity in your goals and vision helps your marketing. [21:40] Bart explains how a digital roadmap can help when we get flustered on what and how many platforms we should be doing. [29:40] How being clear on what you offer leads to confidence.  [39:33] Bart talks about his podcast The More Life. LuAnn Nigara and Bart Anestin's Ah-Ha Moments “Most businesses, big or small, don’t have a solid marketing strategy.” - Bart Anestin “One of the values of our company is that we don’t talk about clients, we talk about people because we are helping someone. If we refer to them just as an “invoice” then it isn’t a genuine interaction. Look at it from how your business can help their business.” - Bart Anestin “When you're confident in your messaging and your process, that's when you can implement a lot of different things because your marketing assets are there supporting everything else.” - Bart Anestin “The branding and marketing world has been democratized because of social media.” - Bart Anestin More About Bart Anestin: Bart Anestin is the owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast. He’s passionate about helping brands tell their story in today’s connected world. Form, function, and awesome clients are the perfect recipe for design, brand alignment, and strategic digital marketing. Bart’s creative approach finds solutions that are mindful, intentional and beautifully crafted. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him at home chasing after his two kids and rewatching episodes of Seinfeld for the umpteenth time. #serenitynow Connect with Bart Anestin Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours. #746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio Window Treatments for Profit: #87 Joe Gebara: Living Life to its Fullest and Run a Successful Window Treatment Business Today With Bart Anestin:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Bart Anestin, owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast. 

Marketing can be challenging with all of the other “hats” we have to wear as interior designers. Bart is here to help us with stress free strategies for design agencies, big and small, that will allow you to focus on your clients projects and not struggle with balancing working for your business while working ON your business.

Pick It Apart

[5:01] Bart shares the similarities that different designers/brands share across the board that he helps them with.

[14:00] Bart explains how clarity in your goals and vision helps your marketing.

[21:40] Bart explains how a digital roadmap can help when we get flustered on what and how many platforms we should be doing.

[29:40] How being clear on what you offer leads to confidence. 

[39:33] Bart talks about his podcast The More Life.

LuAnn Nigara and Bart Anestin's Ah-Ha Moments

“Most businesses, big or small, don’t have a solid marketing strategy.” - Bart Anestin

“One of the values of our company is that we don’t talk about clients, we talk about people because we are helping someone. If we refer to them just as an “invoice” then it isn’t a genuine interaction. Look at it from how your business can help their business.” - Bart Anestin

“When you're confident in your messaging and your process, that's when you can implement a lot of different things because your marketing assets are there supporting everything else.” - Bart Anestin

“The branding and marketing world has been democratized because of social media.” - Bart Anestin

More About Bart Anestin:

Bart Anestin is the owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast. He’s passionate about helping brands tell their story in today’s connected world. Form, function, and awesome clients are the perfect recipe for design, brand alignment, and strategic digital marketing. Bart’s creative approach finds solutions that are mindful, intentional and beautifully crafted. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him at home chasing after his two kids and rewatching episodes of Seinfeld for the umpteenth time. #serenitynow

Connect with Bart Anestin

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours.

#746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio

Window Treatments for Profit: #87 Joe Gebara: Living Life to its Fullest and Run a Successful Window Treatment Business

]]> 3439 no 826: Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Finding Success & Switching Careers with Confidence http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/826-tanya-smith-shiflett-finding-success-switching-careers-with-confidence Today With Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchen & Bath Designs. Tanya has grown her design firm exponentially over five years, expanding to multiple showrooms, engaging in luxury collaborations, and working with high-end designers. Find out how she built her business and what’s next on the horizon for her. Pick It Apart [1:45] Tanya shares the story of how she transitioned from medical sales to kitchen and bath design [7:12] Tanya discusses her expansion and her showrooms [18:10] Tanya breaks down how she forged high-end collaborations with well-known luxury designers [34:00] Tanya and LuAnn discuss Tanya’s collaboration process [39:53] Tanya shares her “best practices” for working with other designers LuAnn Nigara and Tanya Smith-Shiflett's Ah-Ha Moments “The biggest thing about your pace is that you have to do you, just like in everything else. There’s a big movement in self-care, and I’m all for it. But at 60 years old, you’re not going to tell me I don’t know me.” -LuAnn “That’s the thing with people that go for what they want. There’s a whole aspect of having courage and confidence and faith in yourself. But it has to be because you know you can actually deliver.” -LuAnn More About Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Tanya has always believed that the kitchen is, in fact, the heart of the home. She has always been passionate about balancing function and beauty in the rooms we use most. While working full-time in medical sales, she began helping her husband’s building company part-time with kitchen layouts. Her innate ability to create beautiful and functional kitchens promoted her to become a NKBA certified kitchen designer and founder of Unique Kitchens & Baths. Since 2005, Tanya has been in the kitchen design community, expanding her skills and honing her expertise. Today, she works closely with her in-house team of designers at UKB to create timeless spaces. Connect with Tanya Smith-Shiflett Website  Instagram  Classes hosted by Tanya! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #758 Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 826: Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Finding Success & Switching Careers with Confidence full 826 LuAnn Nigara Today With Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchen & Bath Designs. Tanya has grown her design firm exponentially over five years, expanding to multiple showrooms,... Today With Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchen & Bath Designs. Tanya has grown her design firm exponentially over five years, expanding to multiple showrooms, engaging in luxury collaborations, and working with high-end designers. Find out how she built her business and what’s next on the horizon for her. Pick It Apart [1:45] Tanya shares the story of how she transitioned from medical sales to kitchen and bath design [7:12] Tanya discusses her expansion and her showrooms [18:10] Tanya breaks down how she forged high-end collaborations with well-known luxury designers [34:00] Tanya and LuAnn discuss Tanya’s collaboration process [39:53] Tanya shares her “best practices” for working with other designers LuAnn Nigara and Tanya Smith-Shiflett's Ah-Ha Moments “The biggest thing about your pace is that you have to do you, just like in everything else. There’s a big movement in self-care, and I’m all for it. But at 60 years old, you’re not going to tell me I don’t know me.” -LuAnn “That’s the thing with people that go for what they want. There’s a whole aspect of having courage and confidence and faith in yourself. But it has to be because you know you can actually deliver.” -LuAnn More About Tanya Smith-Shiflett: Tanya has always believed that the kitchen is, in fact, the heart of the home. She has always been passionate about balancing function and beauty in the rooms we use most. While working full-time in medical sales, she began helping her husband’s building company part-time with kitchen layouts. Her innate ability to create beautiful and functional kitchens promoted her to become a NKBA certified kitchen designer and founder of Unique Kitchens & Baths. Since 2005, Tanya has been in the kitchen design community, expanding her skills and honing her expertise. Today, she works closely with her in-house team of designers at UKB to create timeless spaces. Connect with Tanya Smith-Shiflett Website  Instagram  Classes hosted by Tanya! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #758 Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community Today With Tanya Smith-Shiflett:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchen & Bath Designs. Tanya has grown her design firm exponentially over five years, expanding to multiple showrooms, engaging in luxury collaborations, and working with high-end designers. Find out how she built her business and what’s next on the horizon for her.

Pick It Apart

[1:45] Tanya shares the story of how she transitioned from medical sales to kitchen and bath design

[7:12] Tanya discusses her expansion and her showrooms

[18:10] Tanya breaks down how she forged high-end collaborations with well-known luxury designers

[34:00] Tanya and LuAnn discuss Tanya’s collaboration process

[39:53] Tanya shares her “best practices” for working with other designers

LuAnn Nigara and Tanya Smith-Shiflett's Ah-Ha Moments

“The biggest thing about your pace is that you have to do you, just like in everything else. There’s a big movement in self-care, and I’m all for it. But at 60 years old, you’re not going to tell me I don’t know me.” -LuAnn

“That’s the thing with people that go for what they want. There’s a whole aspect of having courage and confidence and faith in yourself. But it has to be because you know you can actually deliver.” -LuAnn

More About Tanya Smith-Shiflett:

Tanya has always believed that the kitchen is, in fact, the heart of the home. She has always been passionate about balancing function and beauty in the rooms we use most. While working full-time in medical sales, she began helping her husband’s building company part-time with kitchen layouts. Her innate ability to create beautiful and functional kitchens promoted her to become a NKBA certified kitchen designer and founder of Unique Kitchens & Baths. Since 2005, Tanya has been in the kitchen design community, expanding her skills and honing her expertise. Today, she works closely with her in-house team of designers at UKB to create timeless spaces.

Connect with Tanya Smith-Shiflett

Website 

Instagram 

Classes hosted by Tanya!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

#270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

#236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!

#758 Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community

]]> 3587 no 825: Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm - Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/825-power-talk-friday-cheryl-clendenon-the-design-paradigm-creating-a-strong-framework-for-your-interior-design-business Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “The Design Paradigm”: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Cheryl has been coaching other designers to success since 2017. Now, she’s launching a program called The Design Paradigm to give business owners everywhere a strong, solid framework for a thriving business. Today, she’s sharing how to lay the foundation for your business to grow, succeed, and thrive. Pick It Apart [2:38] Cheryl discusses the places she sees most designers struggling today.  [13:20] Cheryl and LuAnn discuss why having an established process matters so much.  [16:58] Cheryl talks about the importance of weaving marketing into every phase of your business.  [20:22] Cheryl shares how defining your product opens the doors for your business.  [36:22] Cheryl breaks down the details of the Design Paradigm and how it can help your business. LuAnn Nigara and Cheryl Clendenon's Ah-Ha Moments “I think that sometimes in the excitement of these new programs or new approaches, we forget that we need to sell the creative vision and not the independent parts and pieces that make up the creative vision.” -Cheryl “There’s a crisis in confidence in how to charge and how to determine fees—that’s a direct result of not understanding your product and the benefits you bring to the project.” -LuAnn More About Cheryl Clendenon: Cheryl is casual and funny about many things but serious about business and marketing. 22 years of full-time, non-stop running a successful business -with a team for 21 of those 22 years. Prior to that, she was the sales and marketing manager for 2 Gannett-owned radio stations where she learned at the feet of some of the best sales trainers in the country.  She was promoted to be the youngest manager in the company at the time and the youngest to be awarded salesperson of the year.  She will tell you sales, marketing, and running a small business are as much of a passion for her as design.  A well-known writer in the industry for several years and honored to be the 2021 Person of the Year from KBB Magazine. Her firm employs 9 people, has a retail boutique showroom, e-commerce, Candle Studio, and has been coaching since 2017.  Her approach is from a creative stance always- and is unapologetic about often saying what others think.  Her ideas and insights in running a business and then-- promoting it-- work for those who commit to leading, want to put the work in, are not afraid to go against conventions, and are passionate about growth in some way or another.  Liz brings a different dynamic to the party by being the VP of Everything at the firm and an accomplished designer in her own right. She and Cheryl are the yin and yang of the company.  Connect with Cheryl Clendenon The Design Paradigm Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big Fri, 11 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Cheryl Clendenon: The Design Paradigm - Creating a Strong Framework For Your Interior Design Business full 825 LuAnn Nigara Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “The Design Paradigm”: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Cheryl has been coaching other designers to success since 2017.... Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “The Design Paradigm”: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Cheryl has been coaching other designers to success since 2017. Now, she’s launching a program called The Design Paradigm to give business owners everywhere a strong, solid framework for a thriving business. Today, she’s sharing how to lay the foundation for your business to grow, succeed, and thrive. Pick It Apart [2:38] Cheryl discusses the places she sees most designers struggling today.  [13:20] Cheryl and LuAnn discuss why having an established process matters so much.  [16:58] Cheryl talks about the importance of weaving marketing into every phase of your business.  [20:22] Cheryl shares how defining your product opens the doors for your business.  [36:22] Cheryl breaks down the details of the Design Paradigm and how it can help your business. LuAnn Nigara and Cheryl Clendenon's Ah-Ha Moments “I think that sometimes in the excitement of these new programs or new approaches, we forget that we need to sell the creative vision and not the independent parts and pieces that make up the creative vision.” -Cheryl “There’s a crisis in confidence in how to charge and how to determine fees—that’s a direct result of not understanding your product and the benefits you bring to the project.” -LuAnn More About Cheryl Clendenon: Cheryl is casual and funny about many things but serious about business and marketing. 22 years of full-time, non-stop running a successful business -with a team for 21 of those 22 years. Prior to that, she was the sales and marketing manager for 2 Gannett-owned radio stations where she learned at the feet of some of the best sales trainers in the country.  She was promoted to be the youngest manager in the company at the time and the youngest to be awarded salesperson of the year.  She will tell you sales, marketing, and running a small business are as much of a passion for her as design.  A well-known writer in the industry for several years and honored to be the 2021 Person of the Year from KBB Magazine. Her firm employs 9 people, has a retail boutique showroom, e-commerce, Candle Studio, and has been coaching since 2017.  Her approach is from a creative stance always- and is unapologetic about often saying what others think.  Her ideas and insights in running a business and then-- promoting it-- work for those who commit to leading, want to put the work in, are not afraid to go against conventions, and are passionate about growth in some way or another.  Liz brings a different dynamic to the party by being the VP of Everything at the firm and an accomplished designer in her own right. She and Cheryl are the yin and yang of the company.  Connect with Cheryl Clendenon The Design Paradigm Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “The Design Paradigm”:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Cheryl has been coaching other designers to success since 2017. Now, she’s launching a program called The Design Paradigm to give business owners everywhere a strong, solid framework for a thriving business. Today, she’s sharing how to lay the foundation for your business to grow, succeed, and thrive.

Pick It Apart

[2:38] Cheryl discusses the places she sees most designers struggling today. 

[13:20] Cheryl and LuAnn discuss why having an established process matters so much. 

[16:58] Cheryl talks about the importance of weaving marketing into every phase of your business. 

[20:22] Cheryl shares how defining your product opens the doors for your business. 

[36:22] Cheryl breaks down the details of the Design Paradigm and how it can help your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Cheryl Clendenon's Ah-Ha Moments

“I think that sometimes in the excitement of these new programs or new approaches, we forget that we need to sell the creative vision and not the independent parts and pieces that make up the creative vision.” -Cheryl

“There’s a crisis in confidence in how to charge and how to determine fees—that’s a direct result of not understanding your product and the benefits you bring to the project.” -LuAnn

More About Cheryl Clendenon:

Cheryl is casual and funny about many things but serious about business and marketing.

22 years of full-time, non-stop running a successful business -with a team for 21 of those 22 years. Prior to that, she was the sales and marketing manager for 2 Gannett-owned radio stations where she learned at the feet of some of the best sales trainers in the country. 

She was promoted to be the youngest manager in the company at the time and the youngest to be awarded salesperson of the year. 

She will tell you sales, marketing, and running a small business are as much of a passion for her as design. 

A well-known writer in the industry for several years and honored to be the 2021 Person of the Year from KBB Magazine. Her firm employs 9 people, has a retail boutique showroom, e-commerce, Candle Studio, and has been coaching since 2017. 

Her approach is from a creative stance always- and is unapologetic about often saying what others think. 

Her ideas and insights in running a business and then-- promoting it-- work for those who commit to leading, want to put the work in, are not afraid to go against conventions, and are passionate about growth in some way or another. 

Liz brings a different dynamic to the party by being the VP of Everything at the firm and an accomplished designer in her own right. She and Cheryl are the yin and yang of the company. 

Connect with Cheryl Clendenon

The Design Paradigm

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

Other Shows Mentioned:

#482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big

]]> 3585 no 824: Kaitlyn Wolfe: Rapidly Scaling a Successful Design-Build Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/824-kaitlyn-wolfe-rapidly-scaling-a-successful-design-build-business Today With Kaitlyn Wolfe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we have on Kaitlyn Wolfe, founder, general contractor, and principal designer at Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based design-build firm that Kaitlyn has grown from the ground up. Kaitlyn gives us a peek behind the curtain, speaking to what the past few years have been like for her business—one that started as a solo side hustle and has quickly grown to an award-winning firm with more than 15 employees. She shares how she strategized on the fly, but also how she has thoughtfully grown her team with intention and implemented organizational systems along the way. Pick It Apart [4:30] Kaitlyn shares how she fell in love with construction by working with interior designers, architects, and general contractors, all of which gave her well-rounded knowledge of the industry. [12:51] Kaitlyn admits that things could have backfired but remained confident in herself. [25:20] Kaitlyn shares how diversity within the team adds to each project. [31:30] Kaitlyn explains what she has learned from growing her team. [38:05] Kaitlyn discusses what open communication with her team looks like. LuAnn Nigara and Kaitlyn Wolfe's Ah-Ha Moments “…having more of the construction knowledge is super important. I think it helps you collaborate with builders more. I think it just helps you be a better designer.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe “The reason we're changing so fast, or changing things all the time is because we're growing.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe  “I feel like I work for my team…Where can they grow? How can I provide opportunities for them? What are their goals and how can I help them get there within this company?” – Kaitlyn Wolfe More About Kaitlyn Wolfe: From an early age, I knew interior design was something that I absolutely loved and resonated with. In addition, my father was an electrical engineer so I was always helping with any home improvement project I could get my hands on. I was born in a small town outside of Dallas, Texas where I lived until I was 8 years old. My family picked up and moved us to London, England, where I lived until I was 11. Looking back, I think having exposure to European architecture at such a young age and traveling all over Europe, really shaped me. When we left London, we moved to a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I ended up staying in Pennsylvania until I decided to move to Arizona to pursue my Masters in Business Administration. I gained experience working for an interior designer and an architect, as well as a general contractor. I felt that my skills were really well-rounded and it was time to create something of my own. In 2016, I started Iconic Design+Build (although I started as KaityMac Interiors and re-branded in 2018). I worked on my own for the first few years and gained an assistant in 2019. I now have a team of 16 of us and I've really focused on cultivating the best team, the best work culture, and attracting the clients that we really feel aligned with. I pursued interior design and construction because I often noticed there was a lack of communication between the design and the build-on projects I had worked on. Getting my contractor's license allows us to execute the construction for our clients looking for a remodel or TI buildout and it allows us to communicate better with builders and architects that we partner with for custom home designs. We are a full-service luxury interior design firm as well as a general contractor, with projects ranging from residential to commercial. We design everything from residential remodels and new construction custom homes to boutique retail and hospitality spaces. We specialize in mixing styles such as Scandinavian, vintage, brutalist, industrial, minimalist, and mid-century modern spaces, all with an organic desert feeling. I want to inspire others to follow their passion and to design with intention. I pursued interior design when all odds were against me, but I knew that this was my purpose in life. When it comes to intention, I want people to see there was a reason for every single design detail and element we include in a space. We always focused on functionality for our client's, at the same time pushing them out of their comfort zones creatively. In my free time, I absolutely love vintage shopping, traveling, and visiting National Parks! Connect with Kaitlyn Wolfe Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet #663: Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling From 2 Million to 5 Million Other Resources Mentioned: Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman Tue, 08 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Kaitlyn Wolfe: Rapidly Scaling a Successful Design-Build Business full 824 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kaitlyn Wolfe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we have on Kaitlyn Wolfe, founder, general contractor, and principal designer at Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based design-build firm that Kaitlyn has grown from... Today With Kaitlyn Wolfe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we have on Kaitlyn Wolfe, founder, general contractor, and principal designer at Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based design-build firm that Kaitlyn has grown from the ground up. Kaitlyn gives us a peek behind the curtain, speaking to what the past few years have been like for her business—one that started as a solo side hustle and has quickly grown to an award-winning firm with more than 15 employees. She shares how she strategized on the fly, but also how she has thoughtfully grown her team with intention and implemented organizational systems along the way. Pick It Apart [4:30] Kaitlyn shares how she fell in love with construction by working with interior designers, architects, and general contractors, all of which gave her well-rounded knowledge of the industry. [12:51] Kaitlyn admits that things could have backfired but remained confident in herself. [25:20] Kaitlyn shares how diversity within the team adds to each project. [31:30] Kaitlyn explains what she has learned from growing her team. [38:05] Kaitlyn discusses what open communication with her team looks like. LuAnn Nigara and Kaitlyn Wolfe's Ah-Ha Moments “…having more of the construction knowledge is super important. I think it helps you collaborate with builders more. I think it just helps you be a better designer.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe “The reason we're changing so fast, or changing things all the time is because we're growing.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe  “I feel like I work for my team…Where can they grow? How can I provide opportunities for them? What are their goals and how can I help them get there within this company?” – Kaitlyn Wolfe More About Kaitlyn Wolfe: From an early age, I knew interior design was something that I absolutely loved and resonated with. In addition, my father was an electrical engineer so I was always helping with any home improvement project I could get my hands on. I was born in a small town outside of Dallas, Texas where I lived until I was 8 years old. My family picked up and moved us to London, England, where I lived until I was 11. Looking back, I think having exposure to European architecture at such a young age and traveling all over Europe, really shaped me. When we left London, we moved to a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I ended up staying in Pennsylvania until I decided to move to Arizona to pursue my Masters in Business Administration. I gained experience working for an interior designer and an architect, as well as a general contractor. I felt that my skills were really well-rounded and it was time to create something of my own. In 2016, I started Iconic Design+Build (although I started as KaityMac Interiors and re-branded in 2018). I worked on my own for the first few years and gained an assistant in 2019. I now have a team of 16 of us and I've really focused on cultivating the best team, the best work culture, and attracting the clients that we really feel aligned with. I pursued interior design and construction because I often noticed there was a lack of communication between the design and the build-on projects I had worked on. Getting my contractor's license allows us to execute the construction for our clients looking for a remodel or TI buildout and it allows us to communicate better with builders and architects that we partner with for custom home designs. We are a full-service luxury interior design firm as well as a general contractor, with projects ranging from residential to commercial. We design everything from residential remodels and new construction custom homes to boutique retail and hospitality spaces. We specialize in mixing styles such as Scandinavian, vintage, brutalist, industrial, minimalist, and mid-century modern spaces, all with an organic desert feeling. I want to inspire others to follow their passion and to design with intention. I pursued interior design when all odds were against me, but I knew that this was my purpose in life. When it comes to intention, I want people to see there was a reason for every single design detail and element we include in a space. We always focused on functionality for our client's, at the same time pushing them out of their comfort zones creatively. In my free time, I absolutely love vintage shopping, traveling, and visiting National Parks! Connect with Kaitlyn Wolfe Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet #663: Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling From 2 Million to 5 Million Other Resources Mentioned: Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman Today With Kaitlyn Wolfe:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we have on Kaitlyn Wolfe, founder, general contractor, and principal designer at Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based design-build firm that Kaitlyn has grown from the ground up.

Kaitlyn gives us a peek behind the curtain, speaking to what the past few years have been like for her business—one that started as a solo side hustle and has quickly grown to an award-winning firm with more than 15 employees. She shares how she strategized on the fly, but also how she has thoughtfully grown her team with intention and implemented organizational systems along the way.

Pick It Apart

[4:30] Kaitlyn shares how she fell in love with construction by working with interior designers, architects, and general contractors, all of which gave her well-rounded knowledge of the industry.

[12:51] Kaitlyn admits that things could have backfired but remained confident in herself.

[25:20] Kaitlyn shares how diversity within the team adds to each project.

[31:30] Kaitlyn explains what she has learned from growing her team.

[38:05] Kaitlyn discusses what open communication with her team looks like.

LuAnn Nigara and Kaitlyn Wolfe's Ah-Ha Moments

“…having more of the construction knowledge is super important. I think it helps you collaborate with builders more. I think it just helps you be a better designer.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe

“The reason we're changing so fast, or changing things all the time is because we're growing.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe

 “I feel like I work for my team…Where can they grow? How can I provide opportunities for them? What are their goals and how can I help them get there within this company?” – Kaitlyn Wolfe

More About Kaitlyn Wolfe:

From an early age, I knew interior design was something that I absolutely loved and resonated with. In addition, my father was an electrical engineer so I was always helping with any home improvement project I could get my hands on. I was born in a small town outside of Dallas, Texas where I lived until I was 8 years old. My family picked up and moved us to London, England, where I lived until I was 11. Looking back, I think having exposure to European architecture at such a young age and traveling all over Europe, really shaped me. When we left London, we moved to a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I ended up staying in Pennsylvania until I decided to move to Arizona to pursue my Masters in Business Administration. I gained experience working for an interior designer and an architect, as well as a general contractor. I felt that my skills were really well-rounded and it was time to create something of my own. In 2016, I started Iconic Design+Build (although I started as KaityMac Interiors and re-branded in 2018). I worked on my own for the first few years and gained an assistant in 2019. I now have a team of 16 of us and I've really focused on cultivating the best team, the best work culture, and attracting the clients that we really feel aligned with. I pursued interior design and construction because I often noticed there was a lack of communication between the design and the build-on projects I had worked on. Getting my contractor's license allows us to execute the construction for our clients looking for a remodel or TI buildout and it allows us to communicate better with builders and architects that we partner with for custom home designs. We are a full-service luxury interior design firm as well as a general contractor, with projects ranging from residential to commercial. We design everything from residential remodels and new construction custom homes to boutique retail and hospitality spaces. We specialize in mixing styles such as Scandinavian, vintage, brutalist, industrial, minimalist, and mid-century modern spaces, all with an organic desert feeling. I want to inspire others to follow their passion and to design with intention. I pursued interior design when all odds were against me, but I knew that this was my purpose in life. When it comes to intention, I want people to see there was a reason for every single design detail and element we include in a space. We always focused on functionality for our client's, at the same time pushing them out of their comfort zones creatively. In my free time, I absolutely love vintage shopping, traveling, and visiting National Parks!

Connect with Kaitlyn Wolfe

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet

#663: Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling From 2 Million to 5 Million

Other Resources Mentioned:

Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman

]]> 3776 no 823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/823-power-talk-friday-duke-renders-a-case-study-for-a-successful-business-plan Today With Fernando Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. They are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico, and specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.  Fernando Duque is here today to talk about how they have built Duke Renders in 2 years to over 100 employees and more than 500 interior design accounts. Make sure to grab your pen and paper! LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments "We were very clear that we needed to get in place a good management team in order to get where we wanted to go." - Fernando Duque. "I think it was Tony Robbins who said that books are 10 or more years of an author's life compressed for 9.10 bucks." - Fernando Duque. "I've mentioned Tony Robbins before, I'm a big Tony fan, and I love when he says that the secret of living is giving, I really like that phrase." - Fernando Duque. "We are on a mission, we have a very clear mission of making this industry a better industry." - Fernando Duque. More About Fernando Duque: Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I cofounded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.  We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.  We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.  We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.  I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.  Fun Facts:  I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!  Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years  Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business Other Resources Mentioned: Duke Renders A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show! Fri, 04 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan full 823 LuAnn Nigara Today With Fernando Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. They are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico, and specialize in Interior Design and Architectural... Today With Fernando Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. They are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico, and specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.  Fernando Duque is here today to talk about how they have built Duke Renders in 2 years to over 100 employees and more than 500 interior design accounts. Make sure to grab your pen and paper! LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments "We were very clear that we needed to get in place a good management team in order to get where we wanted to go." - Fernando Duque. "I think it was Tony Robbins who said that books are 10 or more years of an author's life compressed for 9.10 bucks." - Fernando Duque. "I've mentioned Tony Robbins before, I'm a big Tony fan, and I love when he says that the secret of living is giving, I really like that phrase." - Fernando Duque. "We are on a mission, we have a very clear mission of making this industry a better industry." - Fernando Duque. More About Fernando Duque: Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies. I cofounded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.  We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.  We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.  We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.  I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.  Fun Facts:  I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!  Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years  Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife Connect with Fernando Duque Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business Other Resources Mentioned: Duke Renders A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show! Today With Fernando Duque:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. They are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico, and specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. 

Fernando Duque is here today to talk about how they have built Duke Renders in 2 years to over 100 employees and more than 500 interior design accounts. Make sure to grab your pen and paper!

LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments

"We were very clear that we needed to get in place a good management team in order to get where we wanted to go." - Fernando Duque.

"I think it was Tony Robbins who said that books are 10 or more years of an author's life compressed for 9.10 bucks." - Fernando Duque.

"I've mentioned Tony Robbins before, I'm a big Tony fan, and I love when he says that the secret of living is giving, I really like that phrase." - Fernando Duque.

"We are on a mission, we have a very clear mission of making this industry a better industry." - Fernando Duque.

More About Fernando Duque:

Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.

I cofounded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment. 

We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging. 

We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs. 

We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process. 

I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu. 

Fun Facts: 

  1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day! 
  2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years 
  3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife

Connect with Fernando Duque

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

Other Resources Mentioned:

Duke Renders

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show!

]]> 3347 no 822: Layton Campbell: The Drama of Interior Design: A Former Broadway Performer Sets the Stage for Building a Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/822-layton-campbell-the-drama-of-interior-design-a-former-broadway-performer-sets-the-stage-for-building-a-design-business Today With Layton Campbell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Layton Campbell of JLayton Interiors on the show. Layton wasn’t always an owner of a successful design firm. He originally started out on Broadway in NYC and performed on cruise ships as a dancer and singer. He always had a passion for stage sets and the interiors of places which grew his desire to do interior design, an interest he already had. Ultimately, he moved back to his native Charlotte, NC and launched his own firm. While scary as it was, there were a lot of lessons Layton learned along the way, and shares with us today. Pick It Apart [7:30] Layton and LuAnn discuss how having prior experience in a career, like working for another design firm, will give you transferable skills. [10:25] Layton goes into best practices of when he worked for another firm.   [22:40] How Layton approached going out onto his own. [27:00] Layton talks about his How to Guide For Starting a Design Business From the Ground Up. [34:07] How Layton approached marketing for his design firm. LuAnn Nigara and Layton Campbell's Ah-Ha Moments “Branching out on my own was terrifying because I was comfortable and you're putting yourself in uncharted territories, but you have to believe in yourself, your background, and the things you have learned and know that they will serve you.” - Layton Campbell “When you think of marketing, think about the layering of it in various forms. That’s where it’s beneficial.” - Layton Campbell More About Layton Campbell: Layton Campbell is a true native Charlottean and proud of it. Many are surprised to learn that he earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and then moved to live in New York City for a little over a decade. While there, he studied his other passion: Interior Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. His design studies beckoned Layton to travel extensively around the world in search of diverse craft and traditions. His professional design aesthetic has been demonstrably shaped by surrounding himself with the rich culture and styles of Russia, Asia, Australia, Europe and The Middle East. After moving back to Charlotte and working as an Associate Designer, Layton launched JLayton Interiors in 2004. During this time, he also acted as lead buyer, designer and store manager for a popular Charlotte-based luxury gift, decor and furnishing retail boutique called Bella Casa from 2005 to 2011. Layton's biggest sense of accomplishment is that he can work within a broad variety of design styles. Thus, his work does not have a routine standard appearance. Each project is an individually inspired expression of originality. His creative philosophy centers on juxtaposing a collection of varying styles for a genuine personalized result for each client. The only thing routine about his approach is that he wants to listen to his client’s needs and desires so that he can match and surpass their expectations. Connect with Layton Campbell Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published With Ren Miller #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry: How to Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm  #134: Paula Grace: How Do I Build Trust With My Clients? #167: Kelsey Grose – Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 #203: ​​Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #291: Cheryl Luckett: From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design  #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet #455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business  #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #796: Allison Handler: From Fashion Designer to Interior Designer: Earning $1 Million Gross in Her First Year Other Resources Mentioned: Steal the Show: A Podcast By Heroic Public Speaking Tue, 01 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Layton Campbell: The Drama of Interior Design: A Former Broadway Performer Sets the Stage for Building a Design Business full 822 LuAnn Nigara Today With Layton Campbell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Layton Campbell of JLayton Interiors on the show. Layton wasn’t always an owner of a successful design firm. He originally started out on Broadway in NYC and performed on... Today With Layton Campbell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Layton Campbell of JLayton Interiors on the show. Layton wasn’t always an owner of a successful design firm. He originally started out on Broadway in NYC and performed on cruise ships as a dancer and singer. He always had a passion for stage sets and the interiors of places which grew his desire to do interior design, an interest he already had. Ultimately, he moved back to his native Charlotte, NC and launched his own firm. While scary as it was, there were a lot of lessons Layton learned along the way, and shares with us today. Pick It Apart [7:30] Layton and LuAnn discuss how having prior experience in a career, like working for another design firm, will give you transferable skills. [10:25] Layton goes into best practices of when he worked for another firm.   [22:40] How Layton approached going out onto his own. [27:00] Layton talks about his How to Guide For Starting a Design Business From the Ground Up. [34:07] How Layton approached marketing for his design firm. LuAnn Nigara and Layton Campbell's Ah-Ha Moments “Branching out on my own was terrifying because I was comfortable and you're putting yourself in uncharted territories, but you have to believe in yourself, your background, and the things you have learned and know that they will serve you.” - Layton Campbell “When you think of marketing, think about the layering of it in various forms. That’s where it’s beneficial.” - Layton Campbell More About Layton Campbell: Layton Campbell is a true native Charlottean and proud of it. Many are surprised to learn that he earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and then moved to live in New York City for a little over a decade. While there, he studied his other passion: Interior Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. His design studies beckoned Layton to travel extensively around the world in search of diverse craft and traditions. His professional design aesthetic has been demonstrably shaped by surrounding himself with the rich culture and styles of Russia, Asia, Australia, Europe and The Middle East. After moving back to Charlotte and working as an Associate Designer, Layton launched JLayton Interiors in 2004. During this time, he also acted as lead buyer, designer and store manager for a popular Charlotte-based luxury gift, decor and furnishing retail boutique called Bella Casa from 2005 to 2011. Layton's biggest sense of accomplishment is that he can work within a broad variety of design styles. Thus, his work does not have a routine standard appearance. Each project is an individually inspired expression of originality. His creative philosophy centers on juxtaposing a collection of varying styles for a genuine personalized result for each client. The only thing routine about his approach is that he wants to listen to his client’s needs and desires so that he can match and surpass their expectations. Connect with Layton Campbell Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published With Ren Miller #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry: How to Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm  #134: Paula Grace: How Do I Build Trust With My Clients? #167: Kelsey Grose – Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 #203: ​​Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #291: Cheryl Luckett: From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design  #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet #455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business  #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #796: Allison Handler: From Fashion Designer to Interior Designer: Earning $1 Million Gross in Her First Year Other Resources Mentioned: Steal the Show: A Podcast By Heroic Public Speaking Today With Layton Campbell:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Layton Campbell of JLayton Interiors on the show. Layton wasn’t always an owner of a successful design firm. He originally started out on Broadway in NYC and performed on cruise ships as a dancer and singer. He always had a passion for stage sets and the interiors of places which grew his desire to do interior design, an interest he already had. Ultimately, he moved back to his native Charlotte, NC and launched his own firm. While scary as it was, there were a lot of lessons Layton learned along the way, and shares with us today.

Pick It Apart

[7:30] Layton and LuAnn discuss how having prior experience in a career, like working for another design firm, will give you transferable skills.

[10:25] Layton goes into best practices of when he worked for another firm.  

[22:40] How Layton approached going out onto his own.

[27:00] Layton talks about his How to Guide For Starting a Design Business From the Ground Up.

[34:07] How Layton approached marketing for his design firm.

LuAnn Nigara and Layton Campbell's Ah-Ha Moments

“Branching out on my own was terrifying because I was comfortable and you're putting yourself in uncharted territories, but you have to believe in yourself, your background, and the things you have learned and know that they will serve you.” - Layton Campbell

“When you think of marketing, think about the layering of it in various forms. That’s where it’s beneficial.” - Layton Campbell

More About Layton Campbell:

Layton Campbell is a true native Charlottean and proud of it. Many are surprised to learn that he earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and then moved to live in New York City for a little over a decade. While there, he studied his other passion: Interior Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design.

His design studies beckoned Layton to travel extensively around the world in search of diverse craft and traditions. His professional design aesthetic has been demonstrably shaped by surrounding himself with the rich culture and styles of Russia, Asia, Australia, Europe and The Middle East.

After moving back to Charlotte and working as an Associate Designer, Layton launched JLayton Interiors in 2004. During this time, he also acted as lead buyer, designer and store manager for a popular Charlotte-based luxury gift, decor and furnishing retail boutique called Bella Casa from 2005 to 2011.

Layton's biggest sense of accomplishment is that he can work within a broad variety of design styles. Thus, his work does not have a routine standard appearance. Each project is an individually inspired expression of originality. His creative philosophy centers on juxtaposing a collection of varying styles for a genuine personalized result for each client. The only thing routine about his approach is that he wants to listen to his client’s needs and desires so that he can match and surpass their expectations.

Connect with Layton Campbell

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published With Ren Miller

#108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry: How to Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm 

#134: Paula Grace: How Do I Build Trust With My Clients?

#167: Kelsey Grose – Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017

#203: ​​Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

#291: Cheryl Luckett: From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design 

#323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

#330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet

#455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business 

#601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

#739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life

#796: Allison Handler: From Fashion Designer to Interior Designer: Earning $1 Million Gross in Her First Year

Other Resources Mentioned:

Steal the Show: A Podcast By Heroic Public Speaking

]]> 3576 no 821: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn's 60th Birthday Celebration: 3 Defining Moments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-821 Today on A-Well Designed Business: Today LuAnn recaps her experience at High Point Market this fall and her top takeaways from the Power Talk Friday Tour 2022. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Mydoma Studio Jaipur Living Fri, 28 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn's 60th Birthday Celebration: 3 Defining Moments full 821 LuAnn Nigara Today on A-Well Designed Business: Today LuAnn recaps her experience at High Point Market this fall and her top takeaways from the Power Talk Friday Tour 2022. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra... Today on A-Well Designed Business: Today LuAnn recaps her experience at High Point Market this fall and her top takeaways from the Power Talk Friday Tour 2022. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Mydoma Studio Jaipur Living Today on A-Well Designed Business:

Today LuAnn recaps her experience at High Point Market this fall and her top takeaways from the Power Talk Friday Tour 2022.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Mydoma Studio

Jaipur Living

]]> 2341 no 820: Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/820-alex-alonso-always-say-yes-to-a-client-except-when-you-should-say-no Today With Alex Alonso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with Alex Alonso of mr. alex TATE Design. Alex was recently on Bravo TV's hit design competition series, "Best Room Wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. What also is impressive is Alex’s knowledge that he is here to share. On multiple occasions he just knocked it out of the park for me in terms of when to turn down a client. Alex shares his ABCD approach that took him and his team months to formulate and now serves them, to be able to have their ideal clients and provide the best client experience. Pick It Apart [14:06] Do all of the ABCD’s of Alex’s ideal client have to check the “yes” box? [26:39] How Alex responds when a client comes back after they were declined.   [29:58] The instances that Alex moves forward with a client if they don’t know or don’t share their budget. LuAnn Nigara and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments “The more honest you can be with yourself about what you can deliver, the better the client experience will be because you’ll have the confidence to speak with the client and say yes, this is or isn’t possible.” - Alex Alonso  “It’s really important as a firm to stand behind your word as a collective team.” - Alex Alonso “There is a justification and rationalization when it comes to budget that a consumer can sink their teeth into.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Alex Alonso: The studio team collective is lead by design principal Alex Alonso. A maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Reflecting a distinct design approach that is all about the mix, the result is a bold sensibility he calls “modern victorian.”  Cuban-born Alex grew up under insanely humid Miami days. After attending Northwestern University and working in advertising in Chicago, Alex moved to Los Angeles where we worked in entertainment for many years. All along he perfected his craft in his true passion, design. His travels have taken him across five continents and function as a constant source of inspiration for his designs.  A voracious collector, Alex is drawn to anything with a story.  Alex was recently on bravo tv's hit design competition series, "best room wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. His room was judged by design maven and host, Genevieve Gorder, elle decor editor-in-chief, Whitney Robinson and design icon, Jonathan Adler. Connect with Alex Alonso Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big #384: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets Tue, 25 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Alex Alonso: Always Say Yes to a Client, Except When You Should Say No full 820 LuAnn Nigara Today With Alex Alonso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with Alex Alonso of mr. alex TATE Design. Alex was recently on Bravo TV's hit design competition series, "Best Room Wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a... Today With Alex Alonso: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with Alex Alonso of mr. alex TATE Design. Alex was recently on Bravo TV's hit design competition series, "Best Room Wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. What also is impressive is Alex’s knowledge that he is here to share. On multiple occasions he just knocked it out of the park for me in terms of when to turn down a client. Alex shares his ABCD approach that took him and his team months to formulate and now serves them, to be able to have their ideal clients and provide the best client experience. Pick It Apart [14:06] Do all of the ABCD’s of Alex’s ideal client have to check the “yes” box? [26:39] How Alex responds when a client comes back after they were declined.   [29:58] The instances that Alex moves forward with a client if they don’t know or don’t share their budget. LuAnn Nigara and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments “The more honest you can be with yourself about what you can deliver, the better the client experience will be because you’ll have the confidence to speak with the client and say yes, this is or isn’t possible.” - Alex Alonso  “It’s really important as a firm to stand behind your word as a collective team.” - Alex Alonso “There is a justification and rationalization when it comes to budget that a consumer can sink their teeth into.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Alex Alonso: The studio team collective is lead by design principal Alex Alonso. A maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Reflecting a distinct design approach that is all about the mix, the result is a bold sensibility he calls “modern victorian.”  Cuban-born Alex grew up under insanely humid Miami days. After attending Northwestern University and working in advertising in Chicago, Alex moved to Los Angeles where we worked in entertainment for many years. All along he perfected his craft in his true passion, design. His travels have taken him across five continents and function as a constant source of inspiration for his designs.  A voracious collector, Alex is drawn to anything with a story.  Alex was recently on bravo tv's hit design competition series, "best room wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. His room was judged by design maven and host, Genevieve Gorder, elle decor editor-in-chief, Whitney Robinson and design icon, Jonathan Adler. Connect with Alex Alonso Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets #482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big #384: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets Today With Alex Alonso:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with Alex Alonso of mr. alex TATE Design. Alex was recently on Bravo TV's hit design competition series, "Best Room Wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. What also is impressive is Alex’s knowledge that he is here to share. On multiple occasions he just knocked it out of the park for me in terms of when to turn down a client. Alex shares his ABCD approach that took him and his team months to formulate and now serves them, to be able to have their ideal clients and provide the best client experience.

Pick It Apart

[14:06] Do all of the ABCD’s of Alex’s ideal client have to check the “yes” box?

[26:39] How Alex responds when a client comes back after they were declined.  

[29:58] The instances that Alex moves forward with a client if they don’t know or don’t share their budget.

LuAnn Nigara and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments

“The more honest you can be with yourself about what you can deliver, the better the client experience will be because you’ll have the confidence to speak with the client and say yes, this is or isn’t possible.” - Alex Alonso 

“It’s really important as a firm to stand behind your word as a collective team.” - Alex Alonso

“There is a justification and rationalization when it comes to budget that a consumer can sink their teeth into.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Alex Alonso:

The studio team collective is lead by design principal Alex Alonso. A maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Reflecting a distinct design approach that is all about the mix, the result is a bold sensibility he calls “modern victorian.” 

Cuban-born Alex grew up under insanely humid Miami days. After attending Northwestern University and working in advertising in Chicago, Alex moved to Los Angeles where we worked in entertainment for many years. All along he perfected his craft in his true passion, design. His travels have taken him across five continents and function as a constant source of inspiration for his designs. 

A voracious collector, Alex is drawn to anything with a story. 

Alex was recently on bravo tv's hit design competition series, "best room wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. His room was judged by design maven and host, Genevieve Gorder, elle decor editor-in-chief, Whitney Robinson and design icon, Jonathan Adler.

Connect with Alex Alonso

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

#482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big

#384: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets

]]> 3647 no 819: Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/819-power-talk-friday-ebony-looney-attract-clients-through-your-interior-design-business-website Today With Ebony Looney: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and today we are having a conversation about your website. Constructing, revamping, or anything you have to do with your business website can be pretty intimidating. Ebony Looney, web designer,  creative director, and owner of Make Me Over Eb is here to tell us how to optimize our website in search, common website mistakes, what to hire out for, what we must include, and more that will give you more confidence and clarity in building your website. Pick It Apart [6:00] Ebony gives advice on how to share your portfolio or show your work on your website. [17:00] Mistakes people tend to make in constructing their website. [20:30] How important is blogging for your business? [34:15] How to attract tradesmen through your website. LuAnn Nigara and Ebony Looney's Ah-Ha Moments “The more I understand about your process before I have conversation with you, the better I can decide and believe if this will work for me.” - LuAnn Nigara “Every business needs to blog.” - Ebony Looney “People are looking you up and want to know if you know what you are doing and what makes you stand out.” - Ebony Looney More About Ebony Looney: Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in. Connect with Ebony Looney Website  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Make Things Happen #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #64: Stephanie Hamilton: Reputation Marketing for Window Treatment Professionals Other Resources Mentioned: LuAnn's Birthday Bash! Fri, 21 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ebony Looney: Attract Clients Through Your Interior Design Business Website full 819 LuAnn Nigara Today With Ebony Looney: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and today we are having a conversation about your website. Constructing, revamping, or anything you have to do with your business website can be pretty... Today With Ebony Looney: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and today we are having a conversation about your website. Constructing, revamping, or anything you have to do with your business website can be pretty intimidating. Ebony Looney, web designer,  creative director, and owner of Make Me Over Eb is here to tell us how to optimize our website in search, common website mistakes, what to hire out for, what we must include, and more that will give you more confidence and clarity in building your website. Pick It Apart [6:00] Ebony gives advice on how to share your portfolio or show your work on your website. [17:00] Mistakes people tend to make in constructing their website. [20:30] How important is blogging for your business? [34:15] How to attract tradesmen through your website. LuAnn Nigara and Ebony Looney's Ah-Ha Moments “The more I understand about your process before I have conversation with you, the better I can decide and believe if this will work for me.” - LuAnn Nigara “Every business needs to blog.” - Ebony Looney “People are looking you up and want to know if you know what you are doing and what makes you stand out.” - Ebony Looney More About Ebony Looney: Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in. Connect with Ebony Looney Website  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Make Things Happen #574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #64: Stephanie Hamilton: Reputation Marketing for Window Treatment Professionals Other Resources Mentioned: LuAnn's Birthday Bash! Today With Ebony Looney:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and today we are having a conversation about your website. Constructing, revamping, or anything you have to do with your business website can be pretty intimidating.

Ebony Looney, web designer,  creative director, and owner of Make Me Over Eb is here to tell us how to optimize our website in search, common website mistakes, what to hire out for, what we must include, and more that will give you more confidence and clarity in building your website.

Pick It Apart

[6:00] Ebony gives advice on how to share your portfolio or show your work on your website.

[17:00] Mistakes people tend to make in constructing their website.

[20:30] How important is blogging for your business?

[34:15] How to attract tradesmen through your website.

LuAnn Nigara and Ebony Looney's Ah-Ha Moments

“The more I understand about your process before I have conversation with you, the better I can decide and believe if this will work for me.” - LuAnn Nigara

“Every business needs to blog.” - Ebony Looney

“People are looking you up and want to know if you know what you are doing and what makes you stand out.” - Ebony Looney

More About Ebony Looney:

Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in.

Connect with Ebony Looney

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Make Things Happen

#574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

#64: Stephanie Hamilton: Reputation Marketing for Window Treatment Professionals

Other Resources Mentioned:

LuAnn's Birthday Bash!

]]> 3525 no 818: Tanna Edler: Seven Strategic Solutions that Saved a Spinning Interior Design Solopreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/818-tanna-edler-seven-strategic-solutions-that-saved-a-spinning-interior-design-solopreneur Today With Tanna Edler: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Tanna Edler, owner of TANNA BY DESIGN we learn the seven strategies she implemented to cut her work time in half, but doubling her income. This wasn’t always the case for Tanna. She worked eight years in business before she came to a realization that things had to change. She was overworking herself and doing the backend duties the “long way.” After attending Mydoma Studio’s 19 Hours, she was inspired to live by her new motto to “live easy.” Pick It Apart [2:17] Tanna shares the catalyst to her come to Jesus moment after 8 years as an interior designer.  [11:35] Tanna talks about the first strategy she used to improve her business.  [13.41] Tanna shares how she personally utilizes Mydoma’s Studio Management Tool. [22:05] Tanna explains Mydoma’s Signature Discovery Call [29:32] The fifth strategy of Marketing Team Outsourcing [40:48] Tanna’s Education strategy and how Lu University was a huge contributor. [47:50] How Tanna’s seven strategies have resulted in more time and more  money. LuAnn Nigara and Tanna Edler's Ah-Ha Moments “Going into this, I thought that the design aspect was going to be the challenge. I thought I was going in with all of the business knowledge, but it was the complete opposite.” - Tanna Edler   “When you’re investing in a website redesign, you do need to know what your message is. What would be the point of the pretty if you're not talking to your ideal client from who you are.” - LuAnn Nigara “You’re the epitome of understanding that no matter how good you are doing something there’s one little aha moment that unlocks a new level of awareness and strategy.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Tanna Edler: Hello, I'm Tanna Edler, founder of TANNA BY DESIGN. I own a Full Service Interior Design firm, based near Yakima, Washington with projects nationwide. Specializing in residential and commercial, new construction and remodeling projects. My philosophy is ‘live easy’. My superpower is creating a space that just feels right, matching the lifestyle goals of my clients. I do this by listening and problem solving. My gift is using the results of this discovery to transform their home or office, enabling my clients to live their best life. Born in Montana, my namesake, and growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have always had an affinity for nature. From a young age I was intrigued by simplicity and natural shapes. You will notice my designs are emphasized by ample windows, an open floor plan and the idea of bringing the outdoors in. After graduating from Washington State University and spending over a decade in corporate human resources as a trainer and coach, working with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon, my creativity pulled me to pursue interior design full time in 2011. I brought along a skill set of client management and procedure solutions which assist me in operating my business and offering a seamless onboarding process for my new clients. Today, I am the only interior designer in Yakima, Washington as well as Washington State to have been awarded IDS Designer of the Year, eight years and the first in the Pacific Northwest to have received the coveted IDS Impact Award for my charitable interior design contributions in my community. Collaborating with the interior design industry elevates my craft and has enabled me to gain vendor relations, allowing for endless interior products at my fingertips. I also care about the future of our industry and have enjoyed serving on the Board as a Director for the Interior Design Society. Recently, I have added Business Coaching to my offerings, mentoring other Interior Designers as they strive for the same success. While my passion is design, I also love to create through writing. For the last ten years I have enjoyed contributing as an interior design writer for NorthSound Life Magazine and their affiliates. White glove service, everything in its place, no worries, no hassle is what I stand for and runs through my virtual design team members and trusted list of architects, contractors, and trades partners I work with. Connect with Tanna Edler Website Blog  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Mydoma Studio   Tue, 18 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Tanna Edler: Seven Strategic Solutions that Saved a Spinning Interior Design Solopreneur full 818 LuAnn Nigara Today With Tanna Edler: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Tanna Edler, owner of TANNA BY DESIGN we learn the seven strategies she implemented to cut her work time in half, but doubling her income. This wasn’t always the case for Tanna.... Today With Tanna Edler: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Tanna Edler, owner of TANNA BY DESIGN we learn the seven strategies she implemented to cut her work time in half, but doubling her income. This wasn’t always the case for Tanna. She worked eight years in business before she came to a realization that things had to change. She was overworking herself and doing the backend duties the “long way.” After attending Mydoma Studio’s 19 Hours, she was inspired to live by her new motto to “live easy.” Pick It Apart [2:17] Tanna shares the catalyst to her come to Jesus moment after 8 years as an interior designer.  [11:35] Tanna talks about the first strategy she used to improve her business.  [13.41] Tanna shares how she personally utilizes Mydoma’s Studio Management Tool. [22:05] Tanna explains Mydoma’s Signature Discovery Call [29:32] The fifth strategy of Marketing Team Outsourcing [40:48] Tanna’s Education strategy and how Lu University was a huge contributor. [47:50] How Tanna’s seven strategies have resulted in more time and more  money. LuAnn Nigara and Tanna Edler's Ah-Ha Moments “Going into this, I thought that the design aspect was going to be the challenge. I thought I was going in with all of the business knowledge, but it was the complete opposite.” - Tanna Edler   “When you’re investing in a website redesign, you do need to know what your message is. What would be the point of the pretty if you're not talking to your ideal client from who you are.” - LuAnn Nigara “You’re the epitome of understanding that no matter how good you are doing something there’s one little aha moment that unlocks a new level of awareness and strategy.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Tanna Edler: Hello, I'm Tanna Edler, founder of TANNA BY DESIGN. I own a Full Service Interior Design firm, based near Yakima, Washington with projects nationwide. Specializing in residential and commercial, new construction and remodeling projects. My philosophy is ‘live easy’. My superpower is creating a space that just feels right, matching the lifestyle goals of my clients. I do this by listening and problem solving. My gift is using the results of this discovery to transform their home or office, enabling my clients to live their best life. Born in Montana, my namesake, and growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have always had an affinity for nature. From a young age I was intrigued by simplicity and natural shapes. You will notice my designs are emphasized by ample windows, an open floor plan and the idea of bringing the outdoors in. After graduating from Washington State University and spending over a decade in corporate human resources as a trainer and coach, working with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon, my creativity pulled me to pursue interior design full time in 2011. I brought along a skill set of client management and procedure solutions which assist me in operating my business and offering a seamless onboarding process for my new clients. Today, I am the only interior designer in Yakima, Washington as well as Washington State to have been awarded IDS Designer of the Year, eight years and the first in the Pacific Northwest to have received the coveted IDS Impact Award for my charitable interior design contributions in my community. Collaborating with the interior design industry elevates my craft and has enabled me to gain vendor relations, allowing for endless interior products at my fingertips. I also care about the future of our industry and have enjoyed serving on the Board as a Director for the Interior Design Society. Recently, I have added Business Coaching to my offerings, mentoring other Interior Designers as they strive for the same success. While my passion is design, I also love to create through writing. For the last ten years I have enjoyed contributing as an interior design writer for NorthSound Life Magazine and their affiliates. White glove service, everything in its place, no worries, no hassle is what I stand for and runs through my virtual design team members and trusted list of architects, contractors, and trades partners I work with. Connect with Tanna Edler Website Blog  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources Mentioned: Mydoma Studio   Today With Tanna Edler:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Tanna Edler, owner of TANNA BY DESIGN we learn the seven strategies she implemented to cut her work time in half, but doubling her income. This wasn’t always the case for Tanna. She worked eight years in business before she came to a realization that things had to change. She was overworking herself and doing the backend duties the “long way.” After attending Mydoma Studio’s 19 Hours, she was inspired to live by her new motto to “live easy.”

Pick It Apart

[2:17] Tanna shares the catalyst to her come to Jesus moment after 8 years as an interior designer. 

[11:35] Tanna talks about the first strategy she used to improve her business. 

[13.41] Tanna shares how she personally utilizes Mydoma’s Studio Management Tool.

[22:05] Tanna explains Mydoma’s Signature Discovery Call

[29:32] The fifth strategy of Marketing Team Outsourcing

[40:48] Tanna’s Education strategy and how Lu University was a huge contributor.

[47:50] How Tanna’s seven strategies have resulted in more time and more  money.

LuAnn Nigara and Tanna Edler's Ah-Ha Moments

“Going into this, I thought that the design aspect was going to be the challenge. I thought I was going in with all of the business knowledge, but it was the complete opposite.” - Tanna Edler  

“When you’re investing in a website redesign, you do need to know what your message is. What would be the point of the pretty if you're not talking to your ideal client from who you are.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You’re the epitome of understanding that no matter how good you are doing something there’s one little aha moment that unlocks a new level of awareness and strategy.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Tanna Edler:

Hello, I'm Tanna Edler, founder of TANNA BY DESIGN. I own a Full Service Interior Design firm, based near Yakima, Washington with projects nationwide. Specializing in residential and commercial, new construction and remodeling projects.

My philosophy is ‘live easy’. My superpower is creating a space that just feels right, matching the lifestyle goals of my clients. I do this by listening and problem solving. My gift is using the results of this discovery to transform their home or office, enabling my clients to live their best life.

Born in Montana, my namesake, and growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have always had an affinity for nature. From a young age I was intrigued by simplicity and natural shapes. You will notice my designs are emphasized by ample windows, an open floor plan and the idea of bringing the outdoors in.

After graduating from Washington State University and spending over a decade in corporate human resources as a trainer and coach, working with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon, my creativity pulled me to pursue interior design full time in 2011. I brought along a skill set of client management and procedure solutions which assist me in operating my business and offering a seamless onboarding process for my new clients.

Today, I am the only interior designer in Yakima, Washington as well as Washington State to have been awarded IDS Designer of the Year, eight years and the first in the Pacific Northwest to have received the coveted IDS Impact Award for my charitable interior design contributions in my community.

Collaborating with the interior design industry elevates my craft and has enabled me to gain vendor relations, allowing for endless interior products at my fingertips. I also care about the future of our industry and have enjoyed serving on the Board as a Director for the Interior Design Society. Recently, I have added Business Coaching to my offerings, mentoring other Interior Designers as they strive for the same success.

While my passion is design, I also love to create through writing. For the last ten years I have enjoyed contributing as an interior design writer for NorthSound Life Magazine and their affiliates.

White glove service, everything in its place, no worries, no hassle is what I stand for and runs through my virtual design team members and trusted list of architects, contractors, and trades partners I work with.

Connect with Tanna Edler

Website

Blog 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Mydoma Studio

 

]]> 4005 no 817: Power Talk Friday: Kate Saunders: Strategies for Organizing Operations in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/817-power-talk-friday-kate-saunders-strategies-for-organizing-operations-in-your-interior-design-business Today With Kate Saunders: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Kate Saunders, is a designer with more than 18 years of experience. Over time, she realized that she has strength, talent, and even passion for the backend of the business. She has taken her experience and her strength to form The Designer’s Collab—a company that handles the backend for design firms of all sizes. Today, she’s sharing what she has learned about efficiency, file management, and streamlining your interior design business. Pick It Apart [1:38] Kate shares the journey that led her to form The Designer’s Collab [8:49] Kate and LuAnn discuss systems that streamline businesses [14:43] LuAnn shares a frustrating roadblock in her business that needs a system improvement [26:49] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of creating a book of standards [35:51] Kate highlights her new brand, The Designer’s Collab LuAnn Nigara and Kate Saunders' Ah-Ha Moments “It’s really important to set up procedures and standards in the beginning. It takes a lot of time, but it’s so important, especially if you’re trying to grow your business. It helps to keep your entire team in line and understanding what your vision is for your business.” -Kate “It’s the difference between knowing in your head what you do and having it on paper or digitally. It enables all the things—it allows you to scale, to train, to go on vacation, but it also helps you in crisis too. We’re not getting out of this world without crisis touching us in some way, shape, or form.” -LuAnn More About Kate Saunders: Kate started in the interior design industry in 2004 and received her BA in Fine Arts from the Design Institute of San Diego. After a few years as a designer, she went on to receive her master’s in architecture degree from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design.  Kate has spent the past 18+ years in every facet of the interior design industry; from Construction Management and Architecture, running her own design firm, helping to lead the interior design program for RH, designing side-by-side with acclaimed San Diego and Orange County interior designers, to managing wholesale Trade Programs across the US and Canada. She’s done it all. Now with her to-the-trade outsourcing service, she has created an opportunity for designers throughout the country to utilize services typically restricted to larger firms.  Whether it be outsourcing your drafting, project management, presentation, and content files, or assisting with installations - The Designer's Collab can assist in any virtual or in-person service capacity giving the sole designer, or design firm a true 3rd party support system to build their business and enhance their client's experience with every tool available. Connect with Kate Saunders Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 14 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kate Saunders: Strategies for Organizing Operations in Your Interior Design Business full 817 LuAnn Nigara Today With Kate Saunders: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Kate Saunders, is a designer with more than 18 years of experience. Over time, she realized that she has strength, talent, and even passion for the backend of the business.... Today With Kate Saunders: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Kate Saunders, is a designer with more than 18 years of experience. Over time, she realized that she has strength, talent, and even passion for the backend of the business. She has taken her experience and her strength to form The Designer’s Collab—a company that handles the backend for design firms of all sizes. Today, she’s sharing what she has learned about efficiency, file management, and streamlining your interior design business. Pick It Apart [1:38] Kate shares the journey that led her to form The Designer’s Collab [8:49] Kate and LuAnn discuss systems that streamline businesses [14:43] LuAnn shares a frustrating roadblock in her business that needs a system improvement [26:49] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of creating a book of standards [35:51] Kate highlights her new brand, The Designer’s Collab LuAnn Nigara and Kate Saunders' Ah-Ha Moments “It’s really important to set up procedures and standards in the beginning. It takes a lot of time, but it’s so important, especially if you’re trying to grow your business. It helps to keep your entire team in line and understanding what your vision is for your business.” -Kate “It’s the difference between knowing in your head what you do and having it on paper or digitally. It enables all the things—it allows you to scale, to train, to go on vacation, but it also helps you in crisis too. We’re not getting out of this world without crisis touching us in some way, shape, or form.” -LuAnn More About Kate Saunders: Kate started in the interior design industry in 2004 and received her BA in Fine Arts from the Design Institute of San Diego. After a few years as a designer, she went on to receive her master’s in architecture degree from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design.  Kate has spent the past 18+ years in every facet of the interior design industry; from Construction Management and Architecture, running her own design firm, helping to lead the interior design program for RH, designing side-by-side with acclaimed San Diego and Orange County interior designers, to managing wholesale Trade Programs across the US and Canada. She’s done it all. Now with her to-the-trade outsourcing service, she has created an opportunity for designers throughout the country to utilize services typically restricted to larger firms.  Whether it be outsourcing your drafting, project management, presentation, and content files, or assisting with installations - The Designer's Collab can assist in any virtual or in-person service capacity giving the sole designer, or design firm a true 3rd party support system to build their business and enhance their client's experience with every tool available. Connect with Kate Saunders Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today With Kate Saunders:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Kate Saunders, is a designer with more than 18 years of experience. Over time, she realized that she has strength, talent, and even passion for the backend of the business. She has taken her experience and her strength to form The Designer’s Collab—a company that handles the backend for design firms of all sizes. Today, she’s sharing what she has learned about efficiency, file management, and streamlining your interior design business.

Pick It Apart

[1:38] Kate shares the journey that led her to form The Designer’s Collab

[8:49] Kate and LuAnn discuss systems that streamline businesses

[14:43] LuAnn shares a frustrating roadblock in her business that needs a system improvement

[26:49] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of creating a book of standards

[35:51] Kate highlights her new brand, The Designer’s Collab

LuAnn Nigara and Kate Saunders' Ah-Ha Moments

“It’s really important to set up procedures and standards in the beginning. It takes a lot of time, but it’s so important, especially if you’re trying to grow your business. It helps to keep your entire team in line and understanding what your vision is for your business.” -Kate

“It’s the difference between knowing in your head what you do and having it on paper or digitally. It enables all the things—it allows you to scale, to train, to go on vacation, but it also helps you in crisis too. We’re not getting out of this world without crisis touching us in some way, shape, or form.” -LuAnn

More About Kate Saunders:

Kate started in the interior design industry in 2004 and received her BA in Fine Arts from the Design Institute of San Diego. After a few years as a designer, she went on to receive her master’s in architecture degree from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design. 

Kate has spent the past 18+ years in every facet of the interior design industry; from Construction Management and Architecture, running her own design firm, helping to lead the interior design program for RH, designing side-by-side with acclaimed San Diego and Orange County interior designers, to managing wholesale Trade Programs across the US and Canada. She’s done it all. Now with her to-the-trade outsourcing service, she has created an opportunity for designers throughout the country to utilize services typically restricted to larger firms. 

Whether it be outsourcing your drafting, project management, presentation, and content files, or assisting with installations - The Designer's Collab can assist in any virtual or in-person service capacity giving the sole designer, or design firm a true 3rd party support system to build their business and enhance their client's experience with every tool available.

Connect with Kate Saunders

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 3369 no 816: Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/816-elsie-st-leger-addressing-racial-inequality-in-the-design-industry Today With Elsie St. Leger: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, I’m joined by Elsie St. Leger, president of IIDA New York, and founding member of the New York chapter’s Equity Council.  The Equity Council was formed to address racial inequality within the design industry and educate those who are interested in doing the work and having the real conversations about equality. Elsie shares what you can do as an individual and business owner to take accountability and make a change. Pick It Apart [19:50] Elsie shares how the Equity Council was formed and what their mission is. [22:40] Elsie and LuAnn discuss the four pillars of the Equity Council. [31:30] Elsie discusses the importance of workshops and education about diversity issues.  [51:38] Elsie and LuAnn talk about why diversity is so important in the design industry specifically. [58:30] Elsie shares what designer can do to promote equity in the industry. LuAnn Nigara and Elsie St. Leger's Ah-Ha Moments “Diversity has become, unfortunately, a sort of broad-stroke term that almost doesn’t mean anything. We wanted to set these pillars—so people could have a foundation from which to start those conversations.” -Elsie “The Equality Council is not about casting judgment. It’s not about pointing fingers. It’s not about revenge or telling you what to do. It’s about assessing where we are, setting the bar, and moving forward.” -Elsie More About Elsie St. Leger: Elsie St. Léger entered the industry while earning her BFA at the New York School of Interior Design, beginning in the residential sector before moving to healthcare. Now an assistant project manager at NYU Langone Health, St. Léger believes in giving back to the industry and began volunteering with IIDA NY. Now, president of IIDA NY, she has played a vital role in the chapter’s push toward accountability and equity as a founding member of the chapter’s Equity Council. As a trusted leader in New York’s interior design industry, St. Léger understands the value of building community during turbulent times. Her motto is momentum and progress, and her role as president has involved building on IIDA NY’s foundation while continuing on a positive trajectory. Despite the inability to conduct in-person programming, working remotely and reprioritizing has allowed St. Léger to foster the sense of remote community within the organization that has become important in the pandemic era. Her previous leadership roles for IIDA NY include that of Residential Forum Co-Chair and Healthcare Forum Co-Chair, and she was part of the leadership of LMNOP (Leadership Mentoring & Networking Opportunities for A&D Professionals), which is now integrated into IIDA NY. Connect with Elsie St. Leger Website  Instagram  Facebook  Equity Council: JEDI Resources What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year—just $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! Visit mydomastudio.com/summer to get started. Tue, 11 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Elsie St. Leger: Addressing Racial Inequality in the Design Industry full 816 LuAnn Nigara Today With Elsie St. Leger: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, I’m joined by Elsie St. Leger, president of IIDA New York, and founding member of the New York chapter’s Equity Council.  The Equity Council was formed to... Today With Elsie St. Leger: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, I’m joined by Elsie St. Leger, president of IIDA New York, and founding member of the New York chapter’s Equity Council.  The Equity Council was formed to address racial inequality within the design industry and educate those who are interested in doing the work and having the real conversations about equality. Elsie shares what you can do as an individual and business owner to take accountability and make a change. Pick It Apart [19:50] Elsie shares how the Equity Council was formed and what their mission is. [22:40] Elsie and LuAnn discuss the four pillars of the Equity Council. [31:30] Elsie discusses the importance of workshops and education about diversity issues.  [51:38] Elsie and LuAnn talk about why diversity is so important in the design industry specifically. [58:30] Elsie shares what designer can do to promote equity in the industry. LuAnn Nigara and Elsie St. Leger's Ah-Ha Moments “Diversity has become, unfortunately, a sort of broad-stroke term that almost doesn’t mean anything. We wanted to set these pillars—so people could have a foundation from which to start those conversations.” -Elsie “The Equality Council is not about casting judgment. It’s not about pointing fingers. It’s not about revenge or telling you what to do. It’s about assessing where we are, setting the bar, and moving forward.” -Elsie More About Elsie St. Leger: Elsie St. Léger entered the industry while earning her BFA at the New York School of Interior Design, beginning in the residential sector before moving to healthcare. Now an assistant project manager at NYU Langone Health, St. Léger believes in giving back to the industry and began volunteering with IIDA NY. Now, president of IIDA NY, she has played a vital role in the chapter’s push toward accountability and equity as a founding member of the chapter’s Equity Council. As a trusted leader in New York’s interior design industry, St. Léger understands the value of building community during turbulent times. Her motto is momentum and progress, and her role as president has involved building on IIDA NY’s foundation while continuing on a positive trajectory. Despite the inability to conduct in-person programming, working remotely and reprioritizing has allowed St. Léger to foster the sense of remote community within the organization that has become important in the pandemic era. Her previous leadership roles for IIDA NY include that of Residential Forum Co-Chair and Healthcare Forum Co-Chair, and she was part of the leadership of LMNOP (Leadership Mentoring & Networking Opportunities for A&D Professionals), which is now integrated into IIDA NY. Connect with Elsie St. Leger Website  Instagram  Facebook  Equity Council: JEDI Resources What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year—just $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! Visit mydomastudio.com/summer to get started. Today With Elsie St. Leger:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, I’m joined by Elsie St. Leger, president of IIDA New York, and founding member of the New York chapter’s Equity Council. 

The Equity Council was formed to address racial inequality within the design industry and educate those who are interested in doing the work and having the real conversations about equality. Elsie shares what you can do as an individual and business owner to take accountability and make a change.

Pick It Apart

[19:50] Elsie shares how the Equity Council was formed and what their mission is.

[22:40] Elsie and LuAnn discuss the four pillars of the Equity Council.

[31:30] Elsie discusses the importance of workshops and education about diversity issues. 

[51:38] Elsie and LuAnn talk about why diversity is so important in the design industry specifically.

[58:30] Elsie shares what designer can do to promote equity in the industry.

LuAnn Nigara and Elsie St. Leger's Ah-Ha Moments

“Diversity has become, unfortunately, a sort of broad-stroke term that almost doesn’t mean anything. We wanted to set these pillars—so people could have a foundation from which to start those conversations.” -Elsie

“The Equality Council is not about casting judgment. It’s not about pointing fingers. It’s not about revenge or telling you what to do. It’s about assessing where we are, setting the bar, and moving forward.” -Elsie

More About Elsie St. Leger:

Elsie St. Léger entered the industry while earning her BFA at the New York School of Interior Design, beginning in the residential sector before moving to healthcare. Now an assistant project manager at NYU Langone Health, St. Léger believes in giving back to the industry and began volunteering with IIDA NY. Now, president of IIDA NY, she has played a vital role in the chapter’s push toward accountability and equity as a founding member of the chapter’s Equity Council.

As a trusted leader in New York’s interior design industry, St. Léger understands the value of building community during turbulent times. Her motto is momentum and progress, and her role as president has involved building on IIDA NY’s foundation while continuing on a positive trajectory. Despite the inability to conduct in-person programming, working remotely and reprioritizing has allowed St. Léger to foster the sense of remote community within the organization that has become important in the pandemic era.

Her previous leadership roles for IIDA NY include that of Residential Forum Co-Chair and Healthcare Forum Co-Chair, and she was part of the leadership of LMNOP (Leadership Mentoring & Networking Opportunities for A&D Professionals), which is now integrated into IIDA NY.

Connect with Elsie St. Leger

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Equity Council: JEDI Resources

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year—just $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! Visit mydomastudio.com/summer to get started.

]]> 4896 no 815: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: Mindset of Pricing Window Treatments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/815-window-treatment-friday-vita-vygovska-mindset-of-pricing-window-treatments Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 5 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. More About Vita Vygovska: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup #761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly #775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? #793: Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers Fri, 07 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: Mindset of Pricing Window Treatments full 815 LuAnn Nigara Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 5 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window... Today With Vita Vygovska: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 5 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. More About Vita Vygovska: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup #761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly #775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? #793: Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers Today With Vita Vygovska:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 5 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.

More About Vita Vygovska:

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations.

Connect with Vita Vygovska

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup

#761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly

#775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments?

#793: Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers

]]> 3512 no 814: Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/814-michelle-lynne-what-constitutes-billable-hours-in-an-interior-design-business Today With Michelle Lynne: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Michelle Lynn, president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and founder of Designed for the Creative Mind where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. I get a lot of requests to talk about what constitutes billable hours. I think you’ll enjoy the answer to all of the tasks you should be charging your clients, but also we shift into the importance of standing by what we charge, knowing we’re worth what we charge, and yet again, educating our clients. Pick It Apart [6:40] The conversation starts about what constitutes billable hours. [20:20] If Michelle HAD to pick three tasks that may not be considered billable. [21:30] The controversial subject of charging less hourly when using your junior designer.  [38:00] LuAnn emphasizes the internal work that needs to be done to be confident in what you charge. [44:00] How having a solid process result in respect from your clients. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Lynne's Ah-Ha Moments “You need to be raising your standards and continue to push until you start hearing some “nos'' because that is when you’ve hit your sweet spot in weeding out the clients who will drag you down.” - Michelle Lynne “Professionals hire professionals.” - Michelle Lynne “We make a home feel like a hug. How do you put a price on that?” - Michelle Lynne “You can listen to hours upon hours of podcasts about knowing your value, but if you don’t do the internal work and come from your CEO role and stand your ground on the service you provide and what it’s worth, you will always struggle with what you are charging.” - LuAnn Nigara “When you start to conduct your business in an organized fashion, your clients become people who appreciate that, don’t question you, and have trust in you.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Lynne: Michelle Lynne is the president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and the founder of Designed for the Creative Mind, where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. A few years into running her interior design firm, Michelle found herself disillusioned from overworking and underbilling. She took control of her firm, putting systems and parameters in place that soon led to a thriving, seven-figure interior design business. Connect with Michelle Lynne Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog  Designed for the Creative Mind What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #429: Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense Other Resources Mentioned: RSVP for LuAnn Nigara's birthday bash at High Point Market! Tue, 04 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Michelle Lynne: What Constitutes Billable Hours in an Interior Design Business? full 814 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Lynne: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Michelle Lynn, president of p, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and founder of Designed for the Creative Mind where she teaches interior designers and... Today With Michelle Lynne: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Michelle Lynn, president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and founder of Designed for the Creative Mind where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. I get a lot of requests to talk about what constitutes billable hours. I think you’ll enjoy the answer to all of the tasks you should be charging your clients, but also we shift into the importance of standing by what we charge, knowing we’re worth what we charge, and yet again, educating our clients. Pick It Apart [6:40] The conversation starts about what constitutes billable hours. [20:20] If Michelle HAD to pick three tasks that may not be considered billable. [21:30] The controversial subject of charging less hourly when using your junior designer.  [38:00] LuAnn emphasizes the internal work that needs to be done to be confident in what you charge. [44:00] How having a solid process result in respect from your clients. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Lynne's Ah-Ha Moments “You need to be raising your standards and continue to push until you start hearing some “nos'' because that is when you’ve hit your sweet spot in weeding out the clients who will drag you down.” - Michelle Lynne “Professionals hire professionals.” - Michelle Lynne “We make a home feel like a hug. How do you put a price on that?” - Michelle Lynne “You can listen to hours upon hours of podcasts about knowing your value, but if you don’t do the internal work and come from your CEO role and stand your ground on the service you provide and what it’s worth, you will always struggle with what you are charging.” - LuAnn Nigara “When you start to conduct your business in an organized fashion, your clients become people who appreciate that, don’t question you, and have trust in you.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Lynne: Michelle Lynne is the president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and the founder of Designed for the Creative Mind, where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. A few years into running her interior design firm, Michelle found herself disillusioned from overworking and underbilling. She took control of her firm, putting systems and parameters in place that soon led to a thriving, seven-figure interior design business. Connect with Michelle Lynne Website  Instagram  Facebook  Blog  Designed for the Creative Mind What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #429: Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense Other Resources Mentioned: RSVP for LuAnn Nigara's birthday bash at High Point Market! Today With Michelle Lynne:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Michelle Lynn, president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and founder of Designed for the Creative Mind where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency.

I get a lot of requests to talk about what constitutes billable hours. I think you’ll enjoy the answer to all of the tasks you should be charging your clients, but also we shift into the importance of standing by what we charge, knowing we’re worth what we charge, and yet again, educating our clients.

Pick It Apart

[6:40] The conversation starts about what constitutes billable hours.

[20:20] If Michelle HAD to pick three tasks that may not be considered billable.

[21:30] The controversial subject of charging less hourly when using your junior designer. 

[38:00] LuAnn emphasizes the internal work that needs to be done to be confident in what you charge.

[44:00] How having a solid process result in respect from your clients.

LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Lynne's Ah-Ha Moments

“You need to be raising your standards and continue to push until you start hearing some “nos'' because that is when you’ve hit your sweet spot in weeding out the clients who will drag you down.” - Michelle Lynne

“Professionals hire professionals.” - Michelle Lynne

“We make a home feel like a hug. How do you put a price on that?” - Michelle Lynne

“You can listen to hours upon hours of podcasts about knowing your value, but if you don’t do the internal work and come from your CEO role and stand your ground on the service you provide and what it’s worth, you will always struggle with what you are charging.” - LuAnn Nigara

“When you start to conduct your business in an organized fashion, your clients become people who appreciate that, don’t question you, and have trust in you.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Michelle Lynne:

Michelle Lynne is the president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and the founder of Designed for the Creative Mind, where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. A few years into running her interior design firm, Michelle found herself disillusioned from overworking and underbilling. She took control of her firm, putting systems and parameters in place that soon led to a thriving, seven-figure interior design business.

Connect with Michelle Lynne

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Blog 

Designed for the Creative Mind

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#429: Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation

#463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity

#797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense

Other Resources Mentioned:

RSVP for LuAnn Nigara's birthday bash at High Point Market!

]]> 4389 no 813: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Design Fees VS Hourly Billing — Why Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/813-power-talk-friday-terri-taylor-flat-fees-vs-hourly-billing-why-are-flat-fees-the-way-to-go Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri knows how to create successful design businesses—and this time she is here to teach us all about design fees VS hourly billing! More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website  Instagram  Blog Other Shows Mentioned: #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Fri, 30 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Design Fees VS Hourly Billing — Why Are Flat Fees the Way to Go? full 813 LuAnn Nigara Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri knows how to create successful design businesses—and this time she is... Today with Terri Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy. Terri knows how to create successful design businesses—and this time she is here to teach us all about design fees VS hourly billing! More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor Website  Instagram  Blog Other Shows Mentioned: #763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth #710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 #662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy #602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit #548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ Today with Terri Taylor: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy.

Terri knows how to create successful design businesses—and this time she is here to teach us all about design fees VS hourly billing!

More About Terri Taylor:

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri Taylor

Website 

Instagram 

Blog

Other Shows Mentioned:

#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth

#710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

#662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy

#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit

#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

]]> 3473 no 812: Susan & Paul Kadilak: How to Grow Your Interior Design Business with Video http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/812-susan-paul-kadilak-how-to-grow-your-interior-design-business-with-video Today With Susan & Paul Kadilak: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard about how valuable video can be for our business. But the idea of starting with video holds a lot of us back. How do we overcome our own insecurities? How do we get started? What do we even put in our videos?  Today, Susan & Paul Kadilak of Kadilak homes help answer that question. They’re taking us through their journey of video for their business and how you can start with video—even if video makes you nervous! Pick It Apart [2:46] Paul and Susan share how they got started with video and how they overcame the discomfort and nerves in the process.  [19:18] Paul and Susan discuss why they chose to bring someone in-house to handle their video needs [22:57] Paul and Susan talk about how to get started with video—without needing to create scripts or ideas.  [28:45] Paul, Susan, and LuAnn discuss how video help build relationships with clients. [36:55] Paul and Susan talk about building video into your contracts. [50:00] Paul and Susan discuss their upcoming TV show and app. LuAnn Nigara and Susan & Paul Kadilak's Ah-Ha Moments “It gets your authenticity out there. When you’re just yourself, there’s people that are going to like you and there are people that are not going to like you and that’s okay. It attracts our ideal avatar in a way, because people come to us that want to work with us.” -Paul “We all know we’re going to get better. If you’re trying to find the courage or motivation, just know that today is the worst you’re ever going to be at it.” -LuAnn “You have to recognize that you care more and you’re paying more attention than anybody else. You’re your own biggest critic.” -Susan More About Susan & Paul Kadilak: @KadilakHomes is a design build firm run by Susan & Paul Kadilak in the Greater Boston area. Together they have made it their mission to help their clients turn an ordinary house into a haven that they love coming home to! The Kadilak’s have grown by connecting directly with their audience through their social media channels and are excited to announce that they just launched a brand-new app, “Renovation Rekindle”, featuring their new show with 10 half hour episodes. In each episode you can follow along with the Kadilak’s and their clients on a complete home renovation journey from beginning to end. Connect with Susan & Paul Kadilak Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Tue, 27 Sep 2022 06:00:24 -0000 Susan & Paul Kadilak: How to Grow Your Interior Design Business with Video full 812 LuAnn Nigara Today With Susan & Paul Kadilak: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard about how valuable video can be for our business. But the idea of starting with video holds a lot of us back. How do we overcome our own insecurities? How do... Today With Susan & Paul Kadilak: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard about how valuable video can be for our business. But the idea of starting with video holds a lot of us back. How do we overcome our own insecurities? How do we get started? What do we even put in our videos?  Today, Susan & Paul Kadilak of Kadilak homes help answer that question. They’re taking us through their journey of video for their business and how you can start with video—even if video makes you nervous! Pick It Apart [2:46] Paul and Susan share how they got started with video and how they overcame the discomfort and nerves in the process.  [19:18] Paul and Susan discuss why they chose to bring someone in-house to handle their video needs [22:57] Paul and Susan talk about how to get started with video—without needing to create scripts or ideas.  [28:45] Paul, Susan, and LuAnn discuss how video help build relationships with clients. [36:55] Paul and Susan talk about building video into your contracts. [50:00] Paul and Susan discuss their upcoming TV show and app. LuAnn Nigara and Susan & Paul Kadilak's Ah-Ha Moments “It gets your authenticity out there. When you’re just yourself, there’s people that are going to like you and there are people that are not going to like you and that’s okay. It attracts our ideal avatar in a way, because people come to us that want to work with us.” -Paul “We all know we’re going to get better. If you’re trying to find the courage or motivation, just know that today is the worst you’re ever going to be at it.” -LuAnn “You have to recognize that you care more and you’re paying more attention than anybody else. You’re your own biggest critic.” -Susan More About Susan & Paul Kadilak: @KadilakHomes is a design build firm run by Susan & Paul Kadilak in the Greater Boston area. Together they have made it their mission to help their clients turn an ordinary house into a haven that they love coming home to! The Kadilak’s have grown by connecting directly with their audience through their social media channels and are excited to announce that they just launched a brand-new app, “Renovation Rekindle”, featuring their new show with 10 half hour episodes. In each episode you can follow along with the Kadilak’s and their clients on a complete home renovation journey from beginning to end. Connect with Susan & Paul Kadilak Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Today With Susan & Paul Kadilak:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard about how valuable video can be for our business. But the idea of starting with video holds a lot of us back. How do we overcome our own insecurities? How do we get started? What do we even put in our videos? 

Today, Susan & Paul Kadilak of Kadilak homes help answer that question. They’re taking us through their journey of video for their business and how you can start with video—even if video makes you nervous!

Pick It Apart

[2:46] Paul and Susan share how they got started with video and how they overcame the discomfort and nerves in the process. 

[19:18] Paul and Susan discuss why they chose to bring someone in-house to handle their video needs

[22:57] Paul and Susan talk about how to get started with video—without needing to create scripts or ideas. 

[28:45] Paul, Susan, and LuAnn discuss how video help build relationships with clients.

[36:55] Paul and Susan talk about building video into your contracts.

[50:00] Paul and Susan discuss their upcoming TV show and app.

LuAnn Nigara and Susan & Paul Kadilak's Ah-Ha Moments

“It gets your authenticity out there. When you’re just yourself, there’s people that are going to like you and there are people that are not going to like you and that’s okay. It attracts our ideal avatar in a way, because people come to us that want to work with us.” -Paul

“We all know we’re going to get better. If you’re trying to find the courage or motivation, just know that today is the worst you’re ever going to be at it.” -LuAnn

“You have to recognize that you care more and you’re paying more attention than anybody else. You’re your own biggest critic.” -Susan

More About Susan & Paul Kadilak:

@KadilakHomes is a design build firm run by Susan & Paul Kadilak in the Greater Boston area. Together they have made it their mission to help their clients turn an ordinary house into a haven that they love coming home to! The Kadilak’s have grown by connecting directly with their audience through their social media channels and are excited to announce that they just launched a brand-new app, “Renovation Rekindle”, featuring their new show with 10 half hour episodes. In each episode you can follow along with the Kadilak’s and their clients on a complete home renovation journey from beginning to end.

Connect with Susan & Paul Kadilak

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.

]]> 4303 no 811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/811-power-talk-friday-heather-hansen-you-are-your-own-advocate Today With Heather Hansen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Heather Hansen, of Heather Hansen Presents we’re talking about how to advocate for yourself in your business. For some, this can be challenging because it begins with believing in yourself. And after 20 years as a trial attorney, Heather has combined her experience, her psychology degree, and her time as a TV anchor to create specific tools to teach anyone to advocate. Pick It Apart [4:13] Heather explains to us how she helps people advocate for themselves, their ideas, and business. [8:00] Heather’s 3 C’s of advocacy. [19:36] What Heather does with her clients to instill better belief in themselves through the evidence journal. [40:00] How compassion plays a role in your advocacy. LuAnn Nigara and Heather Hansen's Ah-Ha Moments “No one can better advocate for yourself than you can because no one has your experience, passion, and talent.” - Heather Hansen “If you’re lacking in belief, then it’s really hard to help other people believe.” - Heather Hansen “See things from your client’s perspective, then use words to resonate with them.” - Heather Hansen More About Heather Hansen: Heather Hansen helps leaders, sales teams and high-powered individuals master persuasion and build credibility with diverse stakeholders. She gives leaders the tools to make the case for their ideas, their products, and their leadership. With these tools, they change others' perspectives and help them to believe.  Heather has worked with companies like Google, LVMH, SavATree, the American Medical Association, and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and has lectured at Harvard Business School, Stanford Law School, Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania. She’s also appeared on The Today Show, CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox Business, and CBS.  Heather is the author of the bestselling book The Elegant Warrior-How to Win Life's Trials Without Losing Yourself, which Publishers Weekly calls "a template to achieving personal and career goals", and the host of The Elegant Warrior podcast, an Apple Top 100 Career podcast. Her most recent book is Advocate To Win-10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It. Connect with Heather Hansen Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Advocate to Win: 10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It The Elegant Warrior What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense. Window Treatments for Profit: #70: Elizabeth Gerdes: Sometimes a Pivot is the Best Thing for Your Window Treatment Business Happiness A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: We only have so many hours in the day. So, how do you maximize your time and invest in your business without maxing out your expenses? Well, our friends at Mydoma have you covered. They’re having the biggest sale of the season, so if you want to spend less time managing and more time designing, plus get access to a powerful rendering tool, mood boards, easy product curation, and more, then I think you know what to do. Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year. That’s only $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! That’s mydomastudio.com/summer. Fri, 23 Sep 2022 06:00:59 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate full 811 LuAnn Nigara Today With Heather Hansen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Heather Hansen, of Heather Hansen Presents we’re talking about how to advocate for yourself in your business. For some, this can be challenging because it begins with... Today With Heather Hansen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Heather Hansen, of Heather Hansen Presents we’re talking about how to advocate for yourself in your business. For some, this can be challenging because it begins with believing in yourself. And after 20 years as a trial attorney, Heather has combined her experience, her psychology degree, and her time as a TV anchor to create specific tools to teach anyone to advocate. Pick It Apart [4:13] Heather explains to us how she helps people advocate for themselves, their ideas, and business. [8:00] Heather’s 3 C’s of advocacy. [19:36] What Heather does with her clients to instill better belief in themselves through the evidence journal. [40:00] How compassion plays a role in your advocacy. LuAnn Nigara and Heather Hansen's Ah-Ha Moments “No one can better advocate for yourself than you can because no one has your experience, passion, and talent.” - Heather Hansen “If you’re lacking in belief, then it’s really hard to help other people believe.” - Heather Hansen “See things from your client’s perspective, then use words to resonate with them.” - Heather Hansen More About Heather Hansen: Heather Hansen helps leaders, sales teams and high-powered individuals master persuasion and build credibility with diverse stakeholders. She gives leaders the tools to make the case for their ideas, their products, and their leadership. With these tools, they change others' perspectives and help them to believe.  Heather has worked with companies like Google, LVMH, SavATree, the American Medical Association, and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and has lectured at Harvard Business School, Stanford Law School, Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania. She’s also appeared on The Today Show, CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox Business, and CBS.  Heather is the author of the bestselling book The Elegant Warrior-How to Win Life's Trials Without Losing Yourself, which Publishers Weekly calls "a template to achieving personal and career goals", and the host of The Elegant Warrior podcast, an Apple Top 100 Career podcast. Her most recent book is Advocate To Win-10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It. Connect with Heather Hansen Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Advocate to Win: 10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It The Elegant Warrior What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense. Window Treatments for Profit: #70: Elizabeth Gerdes: Sometimes a Pivot is the Best Thing for Your Window Treatment Business Happiness A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: We only have so many hours in the day. So, how do you maximize your time and invest in your business without maxing out your expenses? Well, our friends at Mydoma have you covered. They’re having the biggest sale of the season, so if you want to spend less time managing and more time designing, plus get access to a powerful rendering tool, mood boards, easy product curation, and more, then I think you know what to do. Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year. That’s only $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! That’s mydomastudio.com/summer. Today With Heather Hansen:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Heather Hansen, of Heather Hansen Presents we’re talking about how to advocate for yourself in your business. For some, this can be challenging because it begins with believing in yourself. And after 20 years as a trial attorney, Heather has combined her experience, her psychology degree, and her time as a TV anchor to create specific tools to teach anyone to advocate.

Pick It Apart

[4:13] Heather explains to us how she helps people advocate for themselves, their ideas, and business.

[8:00] Heather’s 3 C’s of advocacy.

[19:36] What Heather does with her clients to instill better belief in themselves through the evidence journal.

[40:00] How compassion plays a role in your advocacy.

LuAnn Nigara and Heather Hansen's Ah-Ha Moments

“No one can better advocate for yourself than you can because no one has your experience, passion, and talent.” - Heather Hansen

“If you’re lacking in belief, then it’s really hard to help other people believe.” - Heather Hansen

“See things from your client’s perspective, then use words to resonate with them.” - Heather Hansen

More About Heather Hansen:

Heather Hansen helps leaders, sales teams and high-powered individuals master persuasion and build credibility with diverse stakeholders. She gives leaders the tools to make the case for their ideas, their products, and their leadership. With these tools, they change others' perspectives and help them to believe. 

Heather has worked with companies like Google, LVMH, SavATree, the American Medical Association, and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and has lectured at Harvard Business School, Stanford Law School, Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania. She’s also appeared on The Today Show, CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox Business, and CBS. 

Heather is the author of the bestselling book The Elegant Warrior-How to Win Life's Trials Without Losing Yourself, which Publishers Weekly calls "a template to achieving personal and career goals", and the host of The Elegant Warrior podcast, an Apple Top 100 Career podcast. Her most recent book is Advocate To Win-10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It.

Connect with Heather Hansen

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

Advocate to Win: 10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It

The Elegant Warrior

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense.

Window Treatments for Profit: #70: Elizabeth Gerdes: Sometimes a Pivot is the Best Thing for Your Window Treatment Business Happiness

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

We only have so many hours in the day. So, how do you maximize your time and invest in your business without maxing out your expenses? Well, our friends at Mydoma have you covered. They’re having the biggest sale of the season, so if you want to spend less time managing and more time designing, plus get access to a powerful rendering tool, mood boards, easy product curation, and more, then I think you know what to do.

Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year. That’s only $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! That’s mydomastudio.com/summer.

]]> 4153 no 810: The Complete Ladder of Services from LuAnn Nigara Inc http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-810 Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn lists all the different services and products she offers through the LuAnn Nigara Inc platform for you to enjoy! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 20 Sep 2022 06:00:18 -0000 The Complete Ladder of Services from LuAnn Nigara Inc full 810 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn lists all the different services and products she offers through the LuAnn Nigara Inc platform for you to enjoy! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Get The... Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn lists all the different services and products she offers through the LuAnn Nigara Inc platform for you to enjoy! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn lists all the different services and products she offers through the LuAnn Nigara Inc platform for you to enjoy!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 2344 no 809: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a "Green" Bottom Line http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/809-power-talk-friday-michelle-rohrer-lauer-turning-eco-friendly-design-into-a-green-bottom-line Today With Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you been noticing brands in all industries going more “green?” Are you wondering how you can contribute as a designer?  Today I am chatting with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer a.k.a “The Green Queen”, owner of Michelle Interiors. Michelle will answer all of your questions on how you can learn about sustainability (clue: her 50 Shades of Green events) and how to sprinkle in eco-friendly design to your clients. Make sure to tune in because sustainability is a growing concept and you don’t want to miss out. Pick It Apart [1:45] Michelle explains how sustainability is a growing consumer mandate. [6:27] Michelle gives advice on how to sprinkle in information to clients. [23:20] Michelle talks to us about her 50 Shades of Green approach and events.  [31:51] Michelle explains how a designer can learn more about sustainability. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Rohrer-Lauer's Ah-Ha Moments “You don’t have to be 100% green. You can be 10% green and you’ll still make a difference in your home.” - Michelle Rohrer-Lauer “I already know that you’re going to make the room pretty, but when you’ve added extra value to it and taught me something that’s something I am going to include in my conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Award-winning interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, a.k.a. “The Green Queen,” launched Michelle’s Interiors more than 25 years ago as a part-time, home-based business. Since then, the studio has grown into a bustling, well-respected, firm operating full-time in suburban Chicago. Michelle’s mission has always been to help her clients live the luxurious lifestyle they imagined, in the broadest sense. Yes, that means top-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. But above all, Michelle wants her clients to enjoy the same mindset at home that they experience on vacation: relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated. To that philosophy, Michelle adds a passion for sensible, eco-friendly design choices. She calls her approach “50 Shades of Green” because she believes that her clients don’t have to be 100 percent sustainable at home. They can choose any shade of green that fits their lifestyle, because even small changes can produce healthier indoor living and a healthier planet.  As a certified GREENleader and member of the national Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC),  Michelle wants to help improve indoor air quality, protect natural resources, reduce the world’s carbon footprint and rebel against our throw-away society. She calls it a life insurance policy for the future. To further this goal, Michelle has developed a series of events called “50 Shades of Green,” partnering with local builders, landscapers, architects and specialty trades to educate the public about her approach to eco-friendly design. Among her accolades:  Won “Designer of the Year” award in the 2020 #GetYourGreenOn contest co-sponsored by the Interior Design Society and Sustainable Furnishings Council. Here is her Award-Winning Project   Winner, ASID-IL Design Excellence Awards 2018 to 2021   Member, Sustainable Furnishings Council   Featured in Sheridan Road Magazine, focusing on sustainable design choices for an award-winning home   Featured in Green Building & Design Magazine here: Sustainable Interior Design Tips.  Named as the go-to sustainable designer for Lake Home Lifestyles magazine and blog, including  Living the Green Life Connect with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer Website  Instagram  Facebook  Portfolio Fifty Shades of Green What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design. #670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals  #773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation #800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Fri, 16 Sep 2022 06:00:40 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Turning Eco-Friendly Design into a "Green" Bottom Line full 809 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you been noticing brands in all industries going more “green?” Are you wondering how you can contribute as a designer?  Today I am chatting with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer... Today With Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you been noticing brands in all industries going more “green?” Are you wondering how you can contribute as a designer?  Today I am chatting with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer a.k.a “The Green Queen”, owner of Michelle Interiors. Michelle will answer all of your questions on how you can learn about sustainability (clue: her 50 Shades of Green events) and how to sprinkle in eco-friendly design to your clients. Make sure to tune in because sustainability is a growing concept and you don’t want to miss out. Pick It Apart [1:45] Michelle explains how sustainability is a growing consumer mandate. [6:27] Michelle gives advice on how to sprinkle in information to clients. [23:20] Michelle talks to us about her 50 Shades of Green approach and events.  [31:51] Michelle explains how a designer can learn more about sustainability. LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Rohrer-Lauer's Ah-Ha Moments “You don’t have to be 100% green. You can be 10% green and you’ll still make a difference in your home.” - Michelle Rohrer-Lauer “I already know that you’re going to make the room pretty, but when you’ve added extra value to it and taught me something that’s something I am going to include in my conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Rohrer-Lauer: Award-winning interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, a.k.a. “The Green Queen,” launched Michelle’s Interiors more than 25 years ago as a part-time, home-based business. Since then, the studio has grown into a bustling, well-respected, firm operating full-time in suburban Chicago. Michelle’s mission has always been to help her clients live the luxurious lifestyle they imagined, in the broadest sense. Yes, that means top-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. But above all, Michelle wants her clients to enjoy the same mindset at home that they experience on vacation: relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated. To that philosophy, Michelle adds a passion for sensible, eco-friendly design choices. She calls her approach “50 Shades of Green” because she believes that her clients don’t have to be 100 percent sustainable at home. They can choose any shade of green that fits their lifestyle, because even small changes can produce healthier indoor living and a healthier planet.  As a certified GREENleader and member of the national Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC),  Michelle wants to help improve indoor air quality, protect natural resources, reduce the world’s carbon footprint and rebel against our throw-away society. She calls it a life insurance policy for the future. To further this goal, Michelle has developed a series of events called “50 Shades of Green,” partnering with local builders, landscapers, architects and specialty trades to educate the public about her approach to eco-friendly design. Among her accolades:  Won “Designer of the Year” award in the 2020 #GetYourGreenOn contest co-sponsored by the Interior Design Society and Sustainable Furnishings Council. Here is her Award-Winning Project   Winner, ASID-IL Design Excellence Awards 2018 to 2021   Member, Sustainable Furnishings Council   Featured in Sheridan Road Magazine, focusing on sustainable design choices for an award-winning home   Featured in Green Building & Design Magazine here: Sustainable Interior Design Tips.  Named as the go-to sustainable designer for Lake Home Lifestyles magazine and blog, including  Living the Green Life Connect with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer Website  Instagram  Facebook  Portfolio Fifty Shades of Green What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition #626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design. #670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know #718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals  #773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation #800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Today With Michelle Rohrer-Lauer:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you been noticing brands in all industries going more “green?” Are you wondering how you can contribute as a designer? 

Today I am chatting with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer a.k.a “The Green Queen”, owner of Michelle Interiors. Michelle will answer all of your questions on how you can learn about sustainability (clue: her 50 Shades of Green events) and how to sprinkle in eco-friendly design to your clients. Make sure to tune in because sustainability is a growing concept and you don’t want to miss out.

Pick It Apart

[1:45] Michelle explains how sustainability is a growing consumer mandate.

[6:27] Michelle gives advice on how to sprinkle in information to clients.

[23:20] Michelle talks to us about her 50 Shades of Green approach and events. 

[31:51] Michelle explains how a designer can learn more about sustainability.

LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Rohrer-Lauer's Ah-Ha Moments

“You don’t have to be 100% green. You can be 10% green and you’ll still make a difference in your home.” - Michelle Rohrer-Lauer

“I already know that you’re going to make the room pretty, but when you’ve added extra value to it and taught me something that’s something I am going to include in my conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Michelle Rohrer-Lauer:

Award-winning interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, a.k.a. “The Green Queen,” launched Michelle’s Interiors more than 25 years ago as a part-time, home-based business. Since then, the studio has grown into a bustling, well-respected, firm operating full-time in suburban Chicago.

Michelle’s mission has always been to help her clients live the luxurious lifestyle they imagined, in the broadest sense. Yes, that means top-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. But above all, Michelle wants her clients to enjoy the same mindset at home that they experience on vacation: relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.

To that philosophy, Michelle adds a passion for sensible, eco-friendly design choices. She calls her approach “50 Shades of Green” because she believes that her clients don’t have to be 100 percent sustainable at home. They can choose any shade of green that fits their lifestyle, because even small changes can produce healthier indoor living and a healthier planet. 

As a certified GREENleader and member of the national Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC),  Michelle wants to help improve indoor air quality, protect natural resources, reduce the world’s carbon footprint and rebel against our throw-away society. She calls it a life insurance policy for the future. To further this goal, Michelle has developed a series of events called “50 Shades of Green,” partnering with local builders, landscapers, architects and specialty trades to educate the public about her approach to eco-friendly design.

Among her accolades:

  •  Won “Designer of the Year” award in the 2020 #GetYourGreenOn contest co-sponsored by the Interior Design Society and Sustainable Furnishings Council. Here is her Award-Winning Project
  •   Winner, ASID-IL Design Excellence Awards 2018 to 2021
  •   Member, Sustainable Furnishings Council
  •   Featured in Sheridan Road Magazine, focusing on sustainable design choices for an award-winning home
  •   Featured in Green Building & Design Magazine here: Sustainable Interior Design Tips. 
  • Named as the go-to sustainable designer for Lake Home Lifestyles magazine and blog, including  Living the Green Life

Connect with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Portfolio

Fifty Shades of Green

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition

#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design.

#670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know

#718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos

#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals 

#773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation

#800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.

]]> 3736 no 808: Hailey Kolbe: How to Vet Inquiries, Spot Red Flags, and Attract Your Ideal Client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/808-hailey-kolbe Today With Hailey Kolbe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Hailey Kolbe, the founder and principal designer of her referral-based design firm, Hailey Kolbe Design, which specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. Do you know the value of a thorough client work-up? Today, Hailey and I discuss the importance of a thorough evaluation of your client inquiry forms, how to spot red flags, and set expectations with your clients so you set yourself, and your client, up for success. Tune in today to hear how these critical steps can ultimately help you attract your ideal client and be more profitable. More About Hailey Kolbe: Hailey Kolbe Design is a referral-based design firm ran by founder and lead designer Hailey Kolbe. HK Design specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. At the heart of the business is Hailey’s devotion to serving others and creating a unique design experience tailored to each client project. Through developing long lasting relationships with her clients, Hailey and her team create spaces reflective of each homeowner’s personality and lifestyle.  HK Design cultivates a client experience through a comprehensive materials presentation, the provision of on-site support throughout the construction process and concludes with the furnishing installation. It is Hailey’s priority to curate beautiful, yet functional spaces and a bespoke experience for each of her clients to enjoy while bringing the custom design to fruition.   A native Texan and Texas A&M graduate, Hailey began working as a Registered Nurse before her creative abilities, driven spirit, and deep faith transformed her profession in 2015 into a flourishing interior design career. She spent many years designing homes at a full-service design firm and furniture showroom where she gained experience in design, project management, retail and merchandising. Hailey’s design experience highlights full service residential remodels, new construction, and furnishings. Her work can be seen in Texas living Publications and Luxe Interior Design Magazine. Over the years, Hailey has honed her skills by growing resources and relationships to provide the best products and qualified contractors for each individual project. Hailey also offers mentorship to fellow designers called "Mentorship by Hailey." She has experienced many wonderful mentors throughout her career as a designer and recognizes mentorship is indispensable for the success of Hailey Kolbe Design. She knows firsthand the importance of having one person to trust with the details of your business, to help guide you through decisions and provide encouragement to take the next step in order for your business to grow. This mentorship is designed to support you and your business in a unique way as she is currently in the midst of running her own business, navigating hard decisions, seeking to grow and serve her clients in a way that provides the very best experience. Connect with Hailey Kolbe Website  Instagram Hailey's Project Inquiry Form Hailey's Design Process To apply for Business Mentorship with Hailey Kolbe What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Tue, 13 Sep 2022 06:00:22 -0000 Hailey Kolbe: How to Vet Inquiries, Spot Red Flags, and Attract Your Ideal Client full 808 LuAnn Nigara Today With Hailey Kolbe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Hailey Kolbe, the founder and principal designer of her referral-based design firm, Hailey Kolbe Design, which specializes in full-service design for new builds and... Today With Hailey Kolbe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Hailey Kolbe, the founder and principal designer of her referral-based design firm, Hailey Kolbe Design, which specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. Do you know the value of a thorough client work-up? Today, Hailey and I discuss the importance of a thorough evaluation of your client inquiry forms, how to spot red flags, and set expectations with your clients so you set yourself, and your client, up for success. Tune in today to hear how these critical steps can ultimately help you attract your ideal client and be more profitable. More About Hailey Kolbe: Hailey Kolbe Design is a referral-based design firm ran by founder and lead designer Hailey Kolbe. HK Design specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. At the heart of the business is Hailey’s devotion to serving others and creating a unique design experience tailored to each client project. Through developing long lasting relationships with her clients, Hailey and her team create spaces reflective of each homeowner’s personality and lifestyle.  HK Design cultivates a client experience through a comprehensive materials presentation, the provision of on-site support throughout the construction process and concludes with the furnishing installation. It is Hailey’s priority to curate beautiful, yet functional spaces and a bespoke experience for each of her clients to enjoy while bringing the custom design to fruition.   A native Texan and Texas A&M graduate, Hailey began working as a Registered Nurse before her creative abilities, driven spirit, and deep faith transformed her profession in 2015 into a flourishing interior design career. She spent many years designing homes at a full-service design firm and furniture showroom where she gained experience in design, project management, retail and merchandising. Hailey’s design experience highlights full service residential remodels, new construction, and furnishings. Her work can be seen in Texas living Publications and Luxe Interior Design Magazine. Over the years, Hailey has honed her skills by growing resources and relationships to provide the best products and qualified contractors for each individual project. Hailey also offers mentorship to fellow designers called "Mentorship by Hailey." She has experienced many wonderful mentors throughout her career as a designer and recognizes mentorship is indispensable for the success of Hailey Kolbe Design. She knows firsthand the importance of having one person to trust with the details of your business, to help guide you through decisions and provide encouragement to take the next step in order for your business to grow. This mentorship is designed to support you and your business in a unique way as she is currently in the midst of running her own business, navigating hard decisions, seeking to grow and serve her clients in a way that provides the very best experience. Connect with Hailey Kolbe Website  Instagram Hailey's Project Inquiry Form Hailey's Design Process To apply for Business Mentorship with Hailey Kolbe What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today With Hailey Kolbe:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Hailey Kolbe, the founder and principal designer of her referral-based design firm, Hailey Kolbe Design, which specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. Do you know the value of a thorough client work-up? Today, Hailey and I discuss the importance of a thorough evaluation of your client inquiry forms, how to spot red flags, and set expectations with your clients so you set yourself, and your client, up for success. Tune in today to hear how these critical steps can ultimately help you attract your ideal client and be more profitable.

More About Hailey Kolbe:

Hailey Kolbe Design is a referral-based design firm ran by founder and lead designer Hailey Kolbe. HK Design specializes in full-service design for new builds and remodels. At the heart of the business is Hailey’s devotion to serving others and creating a unique design experience tailored to each client project. Through developing long lasting relationships with her clients, Hailey and her team create spaces reflective of each homeowner’s personality and lifestyle. 

HK Design cultivates a client experience through a comprehensive materials presentation, the provision of on-site support throughout the construction process and concludes with the furnishing installation. It is Hailey’s priority to curate beautiful, yet functional spaces and a bespoke experience for each of her clients to enjoy while bringing the custom design to fruition.  

A native Texan and Texas A&M graduate, Hailey began working as a Registered Nurse before her creative abilities, driven spirit, and deep faith transformed her profession in 2015 into a flourishing interior design career. She spent many years designing homes at a full-service design firm and furniture showroom where she gained experience in design, project management, retail and merchandising. Hailey’s design experience highlights full service residential remodels, new construction, and furnishings. Her work can be seen in Texas living Publications and Luxe Interior Design Magazine. Over the years, Hailey has honed her skills by growing resources and relationships to provide the best products and qualified contractors for each individual project.

Hailey also offers mentorship to fellow designers called "Mentorship by Hailey." She has experienced many wonderful mentors throughout her career as a designer and recognizes mentorship is indispensable for the success of Hailey Kolbe Design. She knows firsthand the importance of having one person to trust with the details of your business, to help guide you through decisions and provide encouragement to take the next step in order for your business to grow. This mentorship is designed to support you and your business in a unique way as she is currently in the midst of running her own business, navigating hard decisions, seeking to grow and serve her clients in a way that provides the very best experience.

Connect with Hailey Kolbe

Website 

Instagram

Hailey's Project Inquiry Form

Hailey's Design Process

To apply for Business Mentorship with Hailey Kolbe

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

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]]> 4716 no 807: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/807-power-talk-friday-claire-jefford-interior-design-boss-academy-why-trust-experience-matter-in-creating-a-profitable-business Today with Claire Jefford:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Claire Jefford—a seasoned designer, a business coach, and one of my trusted Power Talk Friday experts.  Claire knows that the foundation of a successful business is trust and experience—and she’s formed the Interior Design Boss Academy to teach you how to build those two vital pieces for your business. Pick It Apart [13:38] Claire discusses why trust matters so much in business and how to build it from the very first touchpoint with a client.  [23:25] Claire and LuAnn talk about the importance of the client experience. [30:51] Claire breaks down the modules of her course and how they help designers build a strong foundation for their business.  [45:25] Claire shares what you get when you join the Interior Design Boss Academy. LuAnn Nigara and Claire Jefford's Ah-Ha Moments: “The quicker you can build trust, the faster clients will hand over the reins to you and not micromanage. You’ll just see a big shift.” -Claire Jefford “I have coached designers who have said that in their welcome emails they start talking about discounts. Who are you attracting there right now? You are attracting people who are counting their dollars. We don’t hire people in our business because they’re the cheapest. We hire because they’re the best.” -Claire Jefford “This industry is a luxury. We as designers or business owners can’t forget that whether you’re selling somebody something a $250 service or a $50,000 design fee, they’re coming to you for the experience.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Claire Jefford: Claire Jefford began her award-winning Interior Decorating firm in 2011 & quickly grew her business, boasting the highest reviewed design professional in the Toronto area with over 100 reviews. In 2017, Claire started a second business as a Business Coach.  With a background in Human Resources, Claire is passionate about having organized processes, marketing & she also loves creating videos. Audiences love Claire for her authentic personality, her helpful, straight-up advice & cheeky sense of humour.  Voted Top Influencer 3 years running by Modenus, Claire does speaking engagements, panel discussions & live video broadcasts from various events across North America. She also runs a highly active Facebook group, Interior Design Business Strategies, with over 5500 design professionals from around the world. Connect with Claire Jefford Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #237 Claire Jefford: How To Get More Clients With Video Content #325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website #485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult A big thank you to today's sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Claire Jefford and The Interior Design Boss Academy. Check out all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Designer Boss Academy”. Enroll here: https://www.interiordesignbossacademy.com/ Fri, 09 Sep 2022 06:00:33 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Interior Design Boss Academy. Why Trust & Experience Matter in Creating a Profitable Business full 807 LuAnn Nigara Today with Claire Jefford:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Claire Jefford—a seasoned designer, a business coach, and one of my trusted Power Talk Friday experts.  Claire knows... Today with Claire Jefford:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Claire Jefford—a seasoned designer, a business coach, and one of my trusted Power Talk Friday experts.  Claire knows that the foundation of a successful business is trust and experience—and she’s formed the Interior Design Boss Academy to teach you how to build those two vital pieces for your business. Pick It Apart [13:38] Claire discusses why trust matters so much in business and how to build it from the very first touchpoint with a client.  [23:25] Claire and LuAnn talk about the importance of the client experience. [30:51] Claire breaks down the modules of her course and how they help designers build a strong foundation for their business.  [45:25] Claire shares what you get when you join the Interior Design Boss Academy. LuAnn Nigara and Claire Jefford's Ah-Ha Moments: “The quicker you can build trust, the faster clients will hand over the reins to you and not micromanage. You’ll just see a big shift.” -Claire Jefford “I have coached designers who have said that in their welcome emails they start talking about discounts. Who are you attracting there right now? You are attracting people who are counting their dollars. We don’t hire people in our business because they’re the cheapest. We hire because they’re the best.” -Claire Jefford “This industry is a luxury. We as designers or business owners can’t forget that whether you’re selling somebody something a $250 service or a $50,000 design fee, they’re coming to you for the experience.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Claire Jefford: Claire Jefford began her award-winning Interior Decorating firm in 2011 & quickly grew her business, boasting the highest reviewed design professional in the Toronto area with over 100 reviews. In 2017, Claire started a second business as a Business Coach.  With a background in Human Resources, Claire is passionate about having organized processes, marketing & she also loves creating videos. Audiences love Claire for her authentic personality, her helpful, straight-up advice & cheeky sense of humour.  Voted Top Influencer 3 years running by Modenus, Claire does speaking engagements, panel discussions & live video broadcasts from various events across North America. She also runs a highly active Facebook group, Interior Design Business Strategies, with over 5500 design professionals from around the world. Connect with Claire Jefford Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #237 Claire Jefford: How To Get More Clients With Video Content #325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website #485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult A big thank you to today's sponsor: Today's show is sponsored by Claire Jefford and The Interior Design Boss Academy. Check out all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Designer Boss Academy”. Enroll here: https://www.interiordesignbossacademy.com/ Today with Claire Jefford: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. In today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Claire Jefford—a seasoned designer, a business coach, and one of my trusted Power Talk Friday experts. 

Claire knows that the foundation of a successful business is trust and experience—and she’s formed the Interior Design Boss Academy to teach you how to build those two vital pieces for your business.

Pick It Apart

[13:38] Claire discusses why trust matters so much in business and how to build it from the very first touchpoint with a client. 

[23:25] Claire and LuAnn talk about the importance of the client experience.

[30:51] Claire breaks down the modules of her course and how they help designers build a strong foundation for their business. 

[45:25] Claire shares what you get when you join the Interior Design Boss Academy.

LuAnn Nigara and Claire Jefford's Ah-Ha Moments:

“The quicker you can build trust, the faster clients will hand over the reins to you and not micromanage. You’ll just see a big shift.” -Claire Jefford

“I have coached designers who have said that in their welcome emails they start talking about discounts. Who are you attracting there right now? You are attracting people who are counting their dollars. We don’t hire people in our business because they’re the cheapest. We hire because they’re the best.” -Claire Jefford

“This industry is a luxury. We as designers or business owners can’t forget that whether you’re selling somebody something a $250 service or a $50,000 design fee, they’re coming to you for the experience.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Claire Jefford:

Claire Jefford began her award-winning Interior Decorating firm in 2011 & quickly grew her business, boasting the highest reviewed design professional in the Toronto area with over 100 reviews. In 2017, Claire started a second business as a Business Coach. 

With a background in Human Resources, Claire is passionate about having organized processes, marketing & she also loves creating videos. Audiences love Claire for her authentic personality, her helpful, straight-up advice & cheeky sense of humour. 

Voted Top Influencer 3 years running by Modenus, Claire does speaking engagements, panel discussions & live video broadcasts from various events across North America. She also runs a highly active Facebook group, Interior Design Business Strategies, with over 5500 design professionals from around the world.

Connect with Claire Jefford

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

Other Shows Mentioned:

#237 Claire Jefford: How To Get More Clients With Video Content

#325 Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website

#485 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult

A big thank you to today's sponsor:

Today's show is sponsored by Claire Jefford and The Interior Design Boss Academy. Check out all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Designer Boss Academy”.

Enroll here: https://www.interiordesignbossacademy.com/

]]> 3315 no 806: Rebecca Hay: The Power of the Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/806-rebecca-hay-the-power-of-the-process Today With Rebecca Hay: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Rebecca Hay, CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs. Through her podcast Resilient by Design and her course Power of Process, Rebecca is tapping into her experience with running her own business. She is sharing how she has learned to have a clear, organized, and thorough process of services resulting in success in every design project. Of course, it wasn’t always ‘success’ with Rebecca’s business. She had some eye-opening experiences, including what she calls a “lemon job” which, along with A Well-Designed Business and her peers, really opened her eyes to put proper focus on building a process of services.  Listen in as Rebecca and I discuss processes and how through trial and error and the knowledge that process is constantly evolving she has managed to confidently run her business. Pick It Apart [6:30] Rebecca goes into how she learned that processes are important.  [10:03] Rebecca explains how she felt that systems and processes seemed too advanced for her to try at first. [31:47] Rebecca shares how she councils designers through her podcast and through her Power of Process Course how to address processes. [41:00] LuAnn and Rebecca discuss charging for your consultations. LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Hay's Ah-Ha Moments “No matter what the situation is, you have to rewind it back to where you think the mistake took place because that’s where the lesson is.” - LuAnn Nigara “If you never ask your clients those questions, you could go on for years having the same process that hasn't worked the best for your clients.” - LuAnn Nigara  “If the new processes aren’t updated in writing, then when the next project rolls around it's not there to follow. Process is constantly evolving.” - Rebecca Hay More About Rebecca Hay: Rebecca Hay is CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs, podcast host, international speaker, and business coach. She helps driven interior designers who are frustrated, time-strapped and spinning their wheels to eliminate the chaos of running a design business so that they can achieve focus and clarity. She helps them implement systems and strategies to inspire their confidence and streamline their business, taking them from chaos to coordinated. Her methods and experience prove that anyone can uplevel their business without working around the clock & missing out on precious family time.  She’s built her own seven-figure interior design business through trial and error and has eliminated the chaos giving her the freedom now to focus only on the parts that she enjoys most.  Her goal is to disrupt the traditional elitism and secrecy that has been a cornerstone of the Interior Design industry for far too long. Rebecca believes in collaboration over competition and given the right tools & truly authentic marketing, any designer can be successful. Connect with Rebecca Hay Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self #698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy  #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #36: Susan Brunstrum: Practical Advice for Project Management #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Brad Clinard, the Director of Financial Design at High Point Financial Design. Brad and his team are not your average financial planners. Their mission is abundance for everyone, especially their clients and they believe it is their responsibility as Financial Designers to help people improve their lives, make better choices concerning their money, and positively impact their financial wellness. This is their one, extraordinary, and obsessive focus. Tue, 06 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Rebecca Hay: The Power of the Process full 806 LuAnn Nigara Today With Rebecca Hay: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Rebecca Hay, CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs. Through her podcast Resilient by Design and her course Power of Process, Rebecca is tapping into her experience with running her own... Today With Rebecca Hay: Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Rebecca Hay, CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs. Through her podcast Resilient by Design and her course Power of Process, Rebecca is tapping into her experience with running her own business. She is sharing how she has learned to have a clear, organized, and thorough process of services resulting in success in every design project. Of course, it wasn’t always ‘success’ with Rebecca’s business. She had some eye-opening experiences, including what she calls a “lemon job” which, along with A Well-Designed Business and her peers, really opened her eyes to put proper focus on building a process of services.  Listen in as Rebecca and I discuss processes and how through trial and error and the knowledge that process is constantly evolving she has managed to confidently run her business. Pick It Apart [6:30] Rebecca goes into how she learned that processes are important.  [10:03] Rebecca explains how she felt that systems and processes seemed too advanced for her to try at first. [31:47] Rebecca shares how she councils designers through her podcast and through her Power of Process Course how to address processes. [41:00] LuAnn and Rebecca discuss charging for your consultations. LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Hay's Ah-Ha Moments “No matter what the situation is, you have to rewind it back to where you think the mistake took place because that’s where the lesson is.” - LuAnn Nigara “If you never ask your clients those questions, you could go on for years having the same process that hasn't worked the best for your clients.” - LuAnn Nigara  “If the new processes aren’t updated in writing, then when the next project rolls around it's not there to follow. Process is constantly evolving.” - Rebecca Hay More About Rebecca Hay: Rebecca Hay is CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs, podcast host, international speaker, and business coach. She helps driven interior designers who are frustrated, time-strapped and spinning their wheels to eliminate the chaos of running a design business so that they can achieve focus and clarity. She helps them implement systems and strategies to inspire their confidence and streamline their business, taking them from chaos to coordinated. Her methods and experience prove that anyone can uplevel their business without working around the clock & missing out on precious family time.  She’s built her own seven-figure interior design business through trial and error and has eliminated the chaos giving her the freedom now to focus only on the parts that she enjoys most.  Her goal is to disrupt the traditional elitism and secrecy that has been a cornerstone of the Interior Design industry for far too long. Rebecca believes in collaboration over competition and given the right tools & truly authentic marketing, any designer can be successful. Connect with Rebecca Hay Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living #777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self #698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy  #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #36: Susan Brunstrum: Practical Advice for Project Management #607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Brad Clinard, the Director of Financial Design at High Point Financial Design. Brad and his team are not your average financial planners. Their mission is abundance for everyone, especially their clients and they believe it is their responsibility as Financial Designers to help people improve their lives, make better choices concerning their money, and positively impact their financial wellness. This is their one, extraordinary, and obsessive focus. Today With Rebecca Hay:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Rebecca Hay, CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs. Through her podcast Resilient by Design and her course Power of Process, Rebecca is tapping into her experience with running her own business. She is sharing how she has learned to have a clear, organized, and thorough process of services resulting in success in every design project.

Of course, it wasn’t always ‘success’ with Rebecca’s business. She had some eye-opening experiences, including what she calls a “lemon job” which, along with A Well-Designed Business and her peers, really opened her eyes to put proper focus on building a process of services. 

Listen in as Rebecca and I discuss processes and how through trial and error and the knowledge that process is constantly evolving she has managed to confidently run her business.

Pick It Apart

[6:30] Rebecca goes into how she learned that processes are important. 

[10:03] Rebecca explains how she felt that systems and processes seemed too advanced for her to try at first.

[31:47] Rebecca shares how she councils designers through her podcast and through her Power of Process Course how to address processes.

[41:00] LuAnn and Rebecca discuss charging for your consultations.

LuAnn Nigara and Rebecca Hay's Ah-Ha Moments

“No matter what the situation is, you have to rewind it back to where you think the mistake took place because that’s where the lesson is.” - LuAnn Nigara

“If you never ask your clients those questions, you could go on for years having the same process that hasn't worked the best for your clients.” - LuAnn Nigara 

“If the new processes aren’t updated in writing, then when the next project rolls around it's not there to follow. Process is constantly evolving.” - Rebecca Hay

More About Rebecca Hay:

Rebecca Hay is CEO of Rebecca Hay Designs, podcast host, international speaker, and business coach. She helps driven interior designers who are frustrated, time-strapped and spinning their wheels to eliminate the chaos of running a design business so that they can achieve focus and clarity. She helps them implement systems and strategies to inspire their confidence and streamline their business, taking them from chaos to coordinated. Her methods and experience prove that anyone can uplevel their business without working around the clock & missing out on precious family time. 

She’s built her own seven-figure interior design business through trial and error and has eliminated the chaos giving her the freedom now to focus only on the parts that she enjoys most. 

Her goal is to disrupt the traditional elitism and secrecy that has been a cornerstone of the Interior Design industry for far too long. Rebecca believes in collaboration over competition and given the right tools & truly authentic marketing, any designer can be successful.

Connect with Rebecca Hay

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living

#777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self

#698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm

#557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

#475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy 

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#36: Susan Brunstrum: Practical Advice for Project Management

#607: Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Brad Clinard, the Director of Financial Design at High Point Financial Design. Brad and his team are not your average financial planners. Their mission is abundance for everyone, especially their clients and they believe it is their responsibility as Financial Designers to help people improve their lives, make better choices concerning their money, and positively impact their financial wellness. This is their one, extraordinary, and obsessive focus.

]]> 3661 no 805: Power Talk Friday: Jeannie Andresen: Turning Down Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/805-power-talk-friday-jeannie-andresen-turning-down-interior-design-business Today With Jeannie Andresen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often hear from designers who struggle to turn down undesirable businesses. That makes sense—it can be hard to say no to the wrong fit. It takes work on your own mindset to learn how to do that. Today, business coach Jeannie Andresen joins me to guide you through a straightforward process to determine your own worth, charge accordingly, and turn away the business that doesn’t align with it. Pick It Apart [7:52] Jeannie breaks down the art of the 10-minute phone call for crisis communication. [19:47] Jeannie explains why removing emotion makes business decisions easier.  [38:22] LuAnn and Jeannie discuss why undercharging hurts both you and the client.  [45:18] Jeannie shares how to overcome feeling bad about saying no. LuAnn Nigara and Jeannie Andresen's Ah-Ha Moments “If you’re going to convince yourself of a story, why don’t we just try a different story? Let’s say that if you say $6,000 then they thought it was going to be $10,000 and they are thrilled. Because that is just as likely as the story that they were expecting $3,000 and $6,000 is too much. We made them both up.” -LuAnn “You have to remember that in the tough conversations, the other person just wants to hear sometimes that you know a mistake was made. You don’t have to take it as a personal hit.” -LuAnn “The worse feeling is when you give a quote and they say yes to it quickly and you just crumble because you think you should have charged more. How does that allow you to show up moving forward with that client?” -Jeannie More About Jeannie Andresen: Jeannie is a former corporate director turned life and business coach who specializes in helping interior designers become confident in both business and leadership. Jeannie’s background includes a decade of experience in corporate America, running a recruiting business inside a Fortune 100 finance firm. Her role included directly managing a team of six, indirectly managing a team of thirty, and onboarding, training, and coaching sales professionals to develop habits of success to reach their business goals. Jeannie now focuses her business on teaching interior designers the processes of running an organized, successful, and efficient business, so they can finally become confident in their business abilities and make the money they deserve. Connect with Jeannie Andresen Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #710 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Fri, 02 Sep 2022 06:00:46 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jeannie Andresen: Turning Down Interior Design Business full 805 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jeannie Andresen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often hear from designers who struggle to turn down undesirable businesses. That makes sense—it can be hard to say no to the wrong fit. It takes work on your own mindset to learn... Today With Jeannie Andresen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often hear from designers who struggle to turn down undesirable businesses. That makes sense—it can be hard to say no to the wrong fit. It takes work on your own mindset to learn how to do that. Today, business coach Jeannie Andresen joins me to guide you through a straightforward process to determine your own worth, charge accordingly, and turn away the business that doesn’t align with it. Pick It Apart [7:52] Jeannie breaks down the art of the 10-minute phone call for crisis communication. [19:47] Jeannie explains why removing emotion makes business decisions easier.  [38:22] LuAnn and Jeannie discuss why undercharging hurts both you and the client.  [45:18] Jeannie shares how to overcome feeling bad about saying no. LuAnn Nigara and Jeannie Andresen's Ah-Ha Moments “If you’re going to convince yourself of a story, why don’t we just try a different story? Let’s say that if you say $6,000 then they thought it was going to be $10,000 and they are thrilled. Because that is just as likely as the story that they were expecting $3,000 and $6,000 is too much. We made them both up.” -LuAnn “You have to remember that in the tough conversations, the other person just wants to hear sometimes that you know a mistake was made. You don’t have to take it as a personal hit.” -LuAnn “The worse feeling is when you give a quote and they say yes to it quickly and you just crumble because you think you should have charged more. How does that allow you to show up moving forward with that client?” -Jeannie More About Jeannie Andresen: Jeannie is a former corporate director turned life and business coach who specializes in helping interior designers become confident in both business and leadership. Jeannie’s background includes a decade of experience in corporate America, running a recruiting business inside a Fortune 100 finance firm. Her role included directly managing a team of six, indirectly managing a team of thirty, and onboarding, training, and coaching sales professionals to develop habits of success to reach their business goals. Jeannie now focuses her business on teaching interior designers the processes of running an organized, successful, and efficient business, so they can finally become confident in their business abilities and make the money they deserve. Connect with Jeannie Andresen Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #710 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Today With Jeannie Andresen:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I often hear from designers who struggle to turn down undesirable businesses. That makes sense—it can be hard to say no to the wrong fit. It takes work on your own mindset to learn how to do that. Today, business coach Jeannie Andresen joins me to guide you through a straightforward process to determine your own worth, charge accordingly, and turn away the business that doesn’t align with it.

Pick It Apart

[7:52] Jeannie breaks down the art of the 10-minute phone call for crisis communication.

[19:47] Jeannie explains why removing emotion makes business decisions easier. 

[38:22] LuAnn and Jeannie discuss why undercharging hurts both you and the client. 

[45:18] Jeannie shares how to overcome feeling bad about saying no.

LuAnn Nigara and Jeannie Andresen's Ah-Ha Moments

“If you’re going to convince yourself of a story, why don’t we just try a different story? Let’s say that if you say $6,000 then they thought it was going to be $10,000 and they are thrilled. Because that is just as likely as the story that they were expecting $3,000 and $6,000 is too much. We made them both up.” -LuAnn

“You have to remember that in the tough conversations, the other person just wants to hear sometimes that you know a mistake was made. You don’t have to take it as a personal hit.” -LuAnn

“The worse feeling is when you give a quote and they say yes to it quickly and you just crumble because you think you should have charged more. How does that allow you to show up moving forward with that client?” -Jeannie

More About Jeannie Andresen:

Jeannie is a former corporate director turned life and business coach who specializes in helping interior designers become confident in both business and leadership.

Jeannie’s background includes a decade of experience in corporate America, running a recruiting business inside a Fortune 100 finance firm. Her role included directly managing a team of six, indirectly managing a team of thirty, and onboarding, training, and coaching sales professionals to develop habits of success to reach their business goals.

Jeannie now focuses her business on teaching interior designers the processes of running an organized, successful, and efficient business, so they can finally become confident in their business abilities and make the money they deserve.

Connect with Jeannie Andresen

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#710 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.

]]> 4596 no 804: Sherry Schmidt: Closing the Sale in Commercial Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/804-sherry-schmidt-closing-the-sale-in-commercial-interior-design Today With Sherry Schmidt: Today I am joined by Sherry Schmidt, owner of Form and Function. With 20 years of experience in the industry, Sherry offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services.   Today we are covering all things commercial design. Sherry puts all of her sales staff through a step by step training to teach them the art of conversation with clients. Whether you do commercial design, residential design and thinking about adding commercial, residential only, or you just think sales in general are scary, this episode will provide you with a ton of takeaways. You will also learn about Sherry’s course, the Consumer Centered Sales Method for Design Professionals, that will take sales training even farther giving you the confidence to close each and every sale. Pick It Apart [6:15] Sherry breaks down what she will be covering in our conversation about commercial design.  [15:00] Sherry explains what territorial restrictions refer to in commercial design. [17:30] Being prepared with a list of questions about the project scope, budget and quality [29:20] Tips on using what you know about your competition during the initial interview. [49:59] What Sherry suggests designers watch out for in terms of budgeting. LuAnn Nigara and Sherry Schmidt's Ah-Ha Moments “Every situation is different. There are no problems, just solutions.” - Sherry Schmidt “How do I value engineering and still get the look for less?” - Sherry Schmidt “A huge takeaway is do not underestimate the interview, if we can’t wow them during this step then we’re just wasting our time.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sherry Schmidt: Sherry Schmidt’s studies in art and psychology spawned her interest in interior design. With 20 years of experience in the industry, she offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services. Her client-inspired designs incorporate distinctive elements sourced from global artisans and suppliers to create exclusively tailored spaces. Sherry is dedicated to building trusted relationships and to providing superior service to clients throughout the Midwest and beyond. Connect with Sherry Schmidt Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Tue, 30 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Sherry Schmidt: Closing the Sale in Commercial Interior Design full 804 LuAnn Nigara Today With Sherry Schmidt: Today I am joined by Sherry Schmidt, owner of Form and Function. With 20 years of experience in the industry, Sherry offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services.   Today we are... Today With Sherry Schmidt: Today I am joined by Sherry Schmidt, owner of Form and Function. With 20 years of experience in the industry, Sherry offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services.   Today we are covering all things commercial design. Sherry puts all of her sales staff through a step by step training to teach them the art of conversation with clients. Whether you do commercial design, residential design and thinking about adding commercial, residential only, or you just think sales in general are scary, this episode will provide you with a ton of takeaways. You will also learn about Sherry’s course, the Consumer Centered Sales Method for Design Professionals, that will take sales training even farther giving you the confidence to close each and every sale. Pick It Apart [6:15] Sherry breaks down what she will be covering in our conversation about commercial design.  [15:00] Sherry explains what territorial restrictions refer to in commercial design. [17:30] Being prepared with a list of questions about the project scope, budget and quality [29:20] Tips on using what you know about your competition during the initial interview. [49:59] What Sherry suggests designers watch out for in terms of budgeting. LuAnn Nigara and Sherry Schmidt's Ah-Ha Moments “Every situation is different. There are no problems, just solutions.” - Sherry Schmidt “How do I value engineering and still get the look for less?” - Sherry Schmidt “A huge takeaway is do not underestimate the interview, if we can’t wow them during this step then we’re just wasting our time.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sherry Schmidt: Sherry Schmidt’s studies in art and psychology spawned her interest in interior design. With 20 years of experience in the industry, she offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services. Her client-inspired designs incorporate distinctive elements sourced from global artisans and suppliers to create exclusively tailored spaces. Sherry is dedicated to building trusted relationships and to providing superior service to clients throughout the Midwest and beyond. Connect with Sherry Schmidt Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Today With Sherry Schmidt:

Today I am joined by Sherry Schmidt, owner of Form and Function. With 20 years of experience in the industry, Sherry offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services.  

Today we are covering all things commercial design. Sherry puts all of her sales staff through a step by step training to teach them the art of conversation with clients. Whether you do commercial design, residential design and thinking about adding commercial, residential only, or you just think sales in general are scary, this episode will provide you with a ton of takeaways. You will also learn about Sherry’s course, the Consumer Centered Sales Method for Design Professionals, that will take sales training even farther giving you the confidence to close each and every sale.

Pick It Apart

[6:15] Sherry breaks down what she will be covering in our conversation about commercial design. 

[15:00] Sherry explains what territorial restrictions refer to in commercial design.

[17:30] Being prepared with a list of questions about the project scope, budget and quality

[29:20] Tips on using what you know about your competition during the initial interview.

[49:59] What Sherry suggests designers watch out for in terms of budgeting.

LuAnn Nigara and Sherry Schmidt's Ah-Ha Moments

“Every situation is different. There are no problems, just solutions.” - Sherry Schmidt

“How do I value engineering and still get the look for less?” - Sherry Schmidt

“A huge takeaway is do not underestimate the interview, if we can’t wow them during this step then we’re just wasting our time.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Sherry Schmidt:

Sherry Schmidt’s studies in art and psychology spawned her interest in interior design. With 20 years of experience in the industry, she offers individualized one-stop residential and commercial design services. Her client-inspired designs incorporate distinctive elements sourced from global artisans and suppliers to create exclusively tailored spaces. Sherry is dedicated to building trusted relationships and to providing superior service to clients throughout the Midwest and beyond.

Connect with Sherry Schmidt

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 4531 no 803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal - How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/803-power-talk-friday-amber-de-la-garza More About Amber De La Garza: Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of Leverage Lab®. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most! Connect with Amber De La Garza Website  Instagram  Facebook  Listen to Amber’s podcast! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Fri, 26 Aug 2022 06:00:28 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal - How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! full 803 LuAnn Nigara More About Amber De La Garza: Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of Leverage Lab®. She helps business owners improve... More About Amber De La Garza: Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of Leverage Lab®. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most! Connect with Amber De La Garza Website  Instagram  Facebook  Listen to Amber’s podcast! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of Leverage Lab®. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most!

Connect with Amber De La Garza

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Listen to Amber’s podcast!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 3557 no 802: Gillian Segal: How and Where to Build a Professional Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/802-gillian-segal-how-and-where-to-build-a-professional-community Today With Gillian Segal: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am sitting down with Gillian Segal, owner of Gillian Segal Design and HUGE supporter of relationships. But that’s not Gillian’s only passion. Gillian's skill of sourcing has also contributed to her company’s success. Tune in to learn how strong relationships in all aspects of her business and how growing her ‘black book’ of vendors has made Gillian’s firm successful in six years. Pick It Apart [3:00] Gillian starts us right off on what developing community means to her. [7:38] How Gillian develops her supportive and collaborative team. [26:36] Gillian brings the same principles in strengthening relationships with her clients. [33:23] What comes to mind for Gillian in terms of the community with vendors and peers. LuAnn Nigara and Gillian Segal's Ah-Ha Moments “Design is a team sport because it definitely takes a village.” - Gillian Segal  “Some things are out of our control, but what is in our control is how we conduct ourselves with our partners.” - Gillian Segal “The things that got you to your first $500,000 won’t be the things that will get you to your first million to your second million, and so on.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Gillian Segal: Gillian believes that design can have a profoundly positive impact on quality of life and has always had a passion for interior design and its influence on the way we feel day-to-day. At a young age, Gillian watched her parents build their first family home, and from that experience, she always knew that she wanted to change people’s lives through design.  After completing her Bachelor of Arts Degree, Gillian pursued her love for design by attending B.C.I.T’s Interior Design program and graduated magna cum laude. From there, she earned her CID and began working with some of Vancouver’s top design studios, which catapulted the start of her eponymous design firm. Now servicing major cities, including Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York, and beyond, Gillian works with clients around the globe to create highly personalized spaces that speak authentically to their lifestyles.  With an emphasis on playful, modern, and eclectic glamour, Gillian’s work is ever-evolving and frequently inspired by her travels and love for shifting styles throughout the decades. Gillian prioritizes the blending of old and new design aesthetics in order to continuously produce one-of-a-kind timeless spaces for her clients.  Passionate about collaborative initiatives, Gillian continues to expand her endeavors in the product development market. She is the co-founder of Saint Lunette, which focuses on servicing developers, and most recently has curated a product design and wallpaper collection with Drop It Modern.  Gillian has also shared her expertise as an interior design contributor and writer for marthastewart.com and Gray Malin. In between site checks and design appointments, she loves spending time with her family and raising her young children. When she’s not working, Gillian is passionate about giving back and often participates in volunteer work around her community. Gillian is excited to expand her reach and bring her tailored design approach to more of her favorite cities around the world.  Connect with Gillian Segal Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #64- Laura Umansky- Plan Your Career with Intention and Purpose #363- Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn- Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #492- Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Tue, 23 Aug 2022 06:00:58 -0000 Gillian Segal: How and Where to Build a Professional Community full 802 LuAnn Nigara Today With Gillian Segal: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am sitting down with Gillian Segal, owner of Gillian Segal Design and HUGE supporter of relationships. But that’s not Gillian’s only passion. Gillian's skill of sourcing has... Today With Gillian Segal: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am sitting down with Gillian Segal, owner of Gillian Segal Design and HUGE supporter of relationships. But that’s not Gillian’s only passion. Gillian's skill of sourcing has also contributed to her company’s success. Tune in to learn how strong relationships in all aspects of her business and how growing her ‘black book’ of vendors has made Gillian’s firm successful in six years. Pick It Apart [3:00] Gillian starts us right off on what developing community means to her. [7:38] How Gillian develops her supportive and collaborative team. [26:36] Gillian brings the same principles in strengthening relationships with her clients. [33:23] What comes to mind for Gillian in terms of the community with vendors and peers. LuAnn Nigara and Gillian Segal's Ah-Ha Moments “Design is a team sport because it definitely takes a village.” - Gillian Segal  “Some things are out of our control, but what is in our control is how we conduct ourselves with our partners.” - Gillian Segal “The things that got you to your first $500,000 won’t be the things that will get you to your first million to your second million, and so on.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Gillian Segal: Gillian believes that design can have a profoundly positive impact on quality of life and has always had a passion for interior design and its influence on the way we feel day-to-day. At a young age, Gillian watched her parents build their first family home, and from that experience, she always knew that she wanted to change people’s lives through design.  After completing her Bachelor of Arts Degree, Gillian pursued her love for design by attending B.C.I.T’s Interior Design program and graduated magna cum laude. From there, she earned her CID and began working with some of Vancouver’s top design studios, which catapulted the start of her eponymous design firm. Now servicing major cities, including Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York, and beyond, Gillian works with clients around the globe to create highly personalized spaces that speak authentically to their lifestyles.  With an emphasis on playful, modern, and eclectic glamour, Gillian’s work is ever-evolving and frequently inspired by her travels and love for shifting styles throughout the decades. Gillian prioritizes the blending of old and new design aesthetics in order to continuously produce one-of-a-kind timeless spaces for her clients.  Passionate about collaborative initiatives, Gillian continues to expand her endeavors in the product development market. She is the co-founder of Saint Lunette, which focuses on servicing developers, and most recently has curated a product design and wallpaper collection with Drop It Modern.  Gillian has also shared her expertise as an interior design contributor and writer for marthastewart.com and Gray Malin. In between site checks and design appointments, she loves spending time with her family and raising her young children. When she’s not working, Gillian is passionate about giving back and often participates in volunteer work around her community. Gillian is excited to expand her reach and bring her tailored design approach to more of her favorite cities around the world.  Connect with Gillian Segal Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #64- Laura Umansky- Plan Your Career with Intention and Purpose #363- Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn- Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #492- Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Today With Gillian Segal:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am sitting down with Gillian Segal, owner of Gillian Segal Design and HUGE supporter of relationships. But that’s not Gillian’s only passion. Gillian's skill of sourcing has also contributed to her company’s success. Tune in to learn how strong relationships in all aspects of her business and how growing her ‘black book’ of vendors has made Gillian’s firm successful in six years.

Pick It Apart

[3:00] Gillian starts us right off on what developing community means to her.

[7:38] How Gillian develops her supportive and collaborative team.

[26:36] Gillian brings the same principles in strengthening relationships with her clients.

[33:23] What comes to mind for Gillian in terms of the community with vendors and peers.

LuAnn Nigara and Gillian Segal's Ah-Ha Moments

“Design is a team sport because it definitely takes a village.” - Gillian Segal 

“Some things are out of our control, but what is in our control is how we conduct ourselves with our partners.” - Gillian Segal

“The things that got you to your first $500,000 won’t be the things that will get you to your first million to your second million, and so on.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Gillian Segal:

Gillian believes that design can have a profoundly positive impact on quality of life and has always had a passion for interior design and its influence on the way we feel day-to-day. At a young age, Gillian watched her parents build their first family home, and from that experience, she always knew that she wanted to change people’s lives through design. 

After completing her Bachelor of Arts Degree, Gillian pursued her love for design by attending B.C.I.T’s Interior Design program and graduated magna cum laude. From there, she earned her CID and began working with some of Vancouver’s top design studios, which catapulted the start of her eponymous design firm. Now servicing major cities, including Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York, and beyond, Gillian works with clients around the globe to create highly personalized spaces that speak authentically to their lifestyles. 

With an emphasis on playful, modern, and eclectic glamour, Gillian’s work is ever-evolving and frequently inspired by her travels and love for shifting styles throughout the decades. Gillian prioritizes the blending of old and new design aesthetics in order to continuously produce one-of-a-kind timeless spaces for her clients. 

Passionate about collaborative initiatives, Gillian continues to expand her endeavors in the product development market. She is the co-founder of Saint Lunette, which focuses on servicing developers, and most recently has curated a product design and wallpaper collection with Drop It Modern. 

Gillian has also shared her expertise as an interior design contributor and writer for marthastewart.com and Gray Malin.

In between site checks and design appointments, she loves spending time with her family and raising her young children. When she’s not working, Gillian is passionate about giving back and often participates in volunteer work around her community. Gillian is excited to expand her reach and bring her tailored design approach to more of her favorite cities around the world. 

Connect with Gillian Segal

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#64- Laura Umansky- Plan Your Career with Intention and Purpose

#363- Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn- Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#492- Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 4331 no 801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/801-power-talk-friday-sandra-funk Today’s Show Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here:  https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Today with Sandra Funk:  Sandra's back on the show today, and we are talking all about growth and change. Mistakes and obstacles can lead to growth and transformation. Find out why Sandra never asks a client for their budget, and what she does instead. This is one you don't want to miss! This will also be your exclusive invitation to sign up for the Interior Design Standard, so you can achieve the same transformation as Sandra's design firm, without having to make all the mistakes yourself. More About Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Connect with Sandra Funk Website Instagram Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Fri, 19 Aug 2022 06:00:45 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation full 801 LuAnn Nigara Today’s Show Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited... Today’s Show Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here:  https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Today with Sandra Funk:  Sandra's back on the show today, and we are talking all about growth and change. Mistakes and obstacles can lead to growth and transformation. Find out why Sandra never asks a client for their budget, and what she does instead. This is one you don't want to miss! This will also be your exclusive invitation to sign up for the Interior Design Standard, so you can achieve the same transformation as Sandra's design firm, without having to make all the mistakes yourself. More About Sandra Funk: Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Connect with Sandra Funk Website Instagram Facebook  Pinterest Other Shows Mentioned: #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm #02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy Today’s Show Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.”

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”.

I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business.

Enroll here:  https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Today with Sandra Funk: 

Sandra's back on the show today, and we are talking all about growth and change. Mistakes and obstacles can lead to growth and transformation. Find out why Sandra never asks a client for their budget, and what she does instead.

This is one you don't want to miss! This will also be your exclusive invitation to sign up for the Interior Design Standard, so you can achieve the same transformation as Sandra's design firm, without having to make all the mistakes yourself.

More About Sandra Funk:

Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us.

This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style.

House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition.

Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design.

With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Website

Instagram

Facebook 

Pinterest

Other Shows Mentioned:

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm

#02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

]]> 3282 no 800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/800-richelle-plett-how-to-sell-upholstery-without-a-sit-test Today With Richelle Plett: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, with Richelle Plett, seasoned interior designer, and expert in upholstered furniture. We talk about her proprietary course, Upholstery Uncovered, which is accompanied by her, literally beautiful, book by the same name. We also talk about her exciting new 3-hour intensive course available through LuAnn University starting fall 2022, called "Close more upholstered furniture sales: No sit test required!". This episode and her courses are for you if you have ever struggled to sell upholstered pieces to your clients without a “sit test”. When you know the ergonomics of upholstered pieces and the construction of them, you can confidently specify comfortable, beautiful upholstered furniture without the stress and anxiety of “will they like it”? Be the expert and learn how to confidently sell upholstered furniture even when your client cannot try it themselves. Pick It Apart [4:00] LuAnn and Richelle explain the importance of how you can build trust by having the knowledge of what you are selling.  [7:02] As a full service interior designer, Richelle shares how she came to know so much about upholstery. [20:45] Richelle runs through some of the topics covered in her book, Upholstery Uncovered. [31:30] Information on Richelle’s upcoming course for LuAnn University. LuAnn Nigara and Richelle Plett's Ah-Ha Moments “From a sales standpoint, anytime I can understand exactly what I am talking about it’s so much easier to sell.” - LuAnn Nigara  “As a designer, you need to be able to read the frame, look at it and notice that this particular fabric, whether I’m reupholstering it or selecting a custom fabric and recognize how that is going to look.” - Richelle Plett “Once you have a good understanding about what your client’s needs are for the upholstered piece in that space, it basically designs itself.” Richelle Plett More About Richelle Plett: Craving a way to confidently source custom upholstery and meet your client’s needs without resorting to crowdsourcing social media for the answer? Then you should know Richelle Plett. In addition to being a “seasoned” interior designer, Richelle has developed a course called UPHOLSTERY UNCVOVERED that teaches design professionals how to identify and analyze upholstery construction materials and methods so they can make informed decisions on their client’s behalf. Having previously owned an upholstery studio that specialized in the restoration of vintage seating, Richelle has had the unique opportunity to observe how various materials and construction methods wear in real life.  In UPHOLSTERY UNCOVERED, she presents the information in an unbiased manner diving deep into frames, foundations, springs, cushions, fabrics, and custom fabric application, and empowers students to confidently specify custom upholstery WITHOUT clients insisting on sitting on it first!  When not geeking out over the pros and cons of 8-way hand-tied coils springs, Richelle can be found on her own sofa with her dog streaming a documentary and devouring black jellybeans. Connect with Richelle Plett Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Tue, 16 Aug 2022 06:00:57 -0000 Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test full 800 LuAnn Nigara Today With Richelle Plett: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, with Richelle Plett, seasoned interior designer, and expert in upholstered furniture. We talk about her proprietary course, Upholstery Uncovered, which is accompanied by her, literally... Today With Richelle Plett: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, with Richelle Plett, seasoned interior designer, and expert in upholstered furniture. We talk about her proprietary course, Upholstery Uncovered, which is accompanied by her, literally beautiful, book by the same name. We also talk about her exciting new 3-hour intensive course available through LuAnn University starting fall 2022, called "Close more upholstered furniture sales: No sit test required!". This episode and her courses are for you if you have ever struggled to sell upholstered pieces to your clients without a “sit test”. When you know the ergonomics of upholstered pieces and the construction of them, you can confidently specify comfortable, beautiful upholstered furniture without the stress and anxiety of “will they like it”? Be the expert and learn how to confidently sell upholstered furniture even when your client cannot try it themselves. Pick It Apart [4:00] LuAnn and Richelle explain the importance of how you can build trust by having the knowledge of what you are selling.  [7:02] As a full service interior designer, Richelle shares how she came to know so much about upholstery. [20:45] Richelle runs through some of the topics covered in her book, Upholstery Uncovered. [31:30] Information on Richelle’s upcoming course for LuAnn University. LuAnn Nigara and Richelle Plett's Ah-Ha Moments “From a sales standpoint, anytime I can understand exactly what I am talking about it’s so much easier to sell.” - LuAnn Nigara  “As a designer, you need to be able to read the frame, look at it and notice that this particular fabric, whether I’m reupholstering it or selecting a custom fabric and recognize how that is going to look.” - Richelle Plett “Once you have a good understanding about what your client’s needs are for the upholstered piece in that space, it basically designs itself.” Richelle Plett More About Richelle Plett: Craving a way to confidently source custom upholstery and meet your client’s needs without resorting to crowdsourcing social media for the answer? Then you should know Richelle Plett. In addition to being a “seasoned” interior designer, Richelle has developed a course called UPHOLSTERY UNCVOVERED that teaches design professionals how to identify and analyze upholstery construction materials and methods so they can make informed decisions on their client’s behalf. Having previously owned an upholstery studio that specialized in the restoration of vintage seating, Richelle has had the unique opportunity to observe how various materials and construction methods wear in real life.  In UPHOLSTERY UNCOVERED, she presents the information in an unbiased manner diving deep into frames, foundations, springs, cushions, fabrics, and custom fabric application, and empowers students to confidently specify custom upholstery WITHOUT clients insisting on sitting on it first!  When not geeking out over the pros and cons of 8-way hand-tied coils springs, Richelle can be found on her own sofa with her dog streaming a documentary and devouring black jellybeans. Connect with Richelle Plett Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Today With Richelle Plett:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, with Richelle Plett, seasoned interior designer, and expert in upholstered furniture. We talk about her proprietary course, Upholstery Uncovered, which is accompanied by her, literally beautiful, book by the same name. We also talk about her exciting new 3-hour intensive course available through LuAnn University starting fall 2022, called "Close more upholstered furniture sales: No sit test required!". This episode and her courses are for you if you have ever struggled to sell upholstered pieces to your clients without a “sit test”. When you know the ergonomics of upholstered pieces and the construction of them, you can confidently specify comfortable, beautiful upholstered furniture without the stress and anxiety of “will they like it”? Be the expert and learn how to confidently sell upholstered furniture even when your client cannot try it themselves.

Pick It Apart

[4:00] LuAnn and Richelle explain the importance of how you can build trust by having the knowledge of what you are selling. 

[7:02] As a full service interior designer, Richelle shares how she came to know so much about upholstery.

[20:45] Richelle runs through some of the topics covered in her book, Upholstery Uncovered.

[31:30] Information on Richelle’s upcoming course for LuAnn University.

LuAnn Nigara and Richelle Plett's Ah-Ha Moments

“From a sales standpoint, anytime I can understand exactly what I am talking about it’s so much easier to sell.” - LuAnn Nigara 

“As a designer, you need to be able to read the frame, look at it and notice that this particular fabric, whether I’m reupholstering it or selecting a custom fabric and recognize how that is going to look.” - Richelle Plett

“Once you have a good understanding about what your client’s needs are for the upholstered piece in that space, it basically designs itself.” Richelle Plett

More About Richelle Plett:

Craving a way to confidently source custom upholstery and meet your client’s needs without resorting to crowdsourcing social media for the answer? Then you should know Richelle Plett.

In addition to being a “seasoned” interior designer, Richelle has developed a course called UPHOLSTERY UNCVOVERED that teaches design professionals how to identify and analyze upholstery construction materials and methods so they can make informed decisions on their client’s behalf.

Having previously owned an upholstery studio that specialized in the restoration of vintage seating, Richelle has had the unique opportunity to observe how various materials and construction methods wear in real life. 

In UPHOLSTERY UNCOVERED, she presents the information in an unbiased manner diving deep into frames, foundations, springs, cushions, fabrics, and custom fabric application, and empowers students to confidently specify custom upholstery WITHOUT clients insisting on sitting on it first! 

When not geeking out over the pros and cons of 8-way hand-tied coils springs, Richelle can be found on her own sofa with her dog streaming a documentary and devouring black jellybeans.

Connect with Richelle Plett

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 3416 no 799: Power Talk Friday: Jamie Van Cuyk: What You Need to Consider When Making Your Next Hire http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/799-power-talk-friday-jamie-van-cuyk Today With Jamie Van Cuyk: It seems like everywhere I turn, businesses in our industry are hiring. And yet, just as many of them are struggling to find the right way to hire and onboard for long-term success. Today, Jamie Van Cuyk of Growing Your Business joins me to discuss the ins and outs of hiring the best fit employee for your team. Pick It Apart [2:14] Jamie discusses why hiring has changed so drastically in the last year and what it means for businesses looking to hire.  [20:05] Jamie shares her insights on the interview process, beginning with the job description. [34:55] Jamie and LuAnn discuss the importance of the onboarding process. [52:30] Jamie breaks down the importance of flexibility in work schedules for the modern workforce. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Van Cuyk's Ah-Ha Moments “Just like in our design projects, the more clarity we can have upfront and the more we can create that in the job description and the job posting and the interview, the better match we’re going to ultimately end up with.” -LuAnn “The main thing about onboarding is teaching your expectations so you are happy with their performance. If you don’t teach them your expectations, they’re going to make up their own expectations.” -Jamie More About Jamie Van Cuyk: Jamie Van Cuyk, the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team, is an expert in hiring and onboarding teams within small businesses.  Drawing from over 15 years of leadership experience, Jamie teaches her clients how to hire their early team members, including employees and long-term contractors. By learning the dynamics of each company and their specific needs, she helps them and their perfect, long-lasting team members and avoids the hiring and ring cycle.  On a personal side, Jamie lives in St Petersburg, FL, with her husband and two daughters, is a hobby winemaker, loves to travel, and enjoys exercise that takes her feet off the ground, including rock climbing and aerial dance. Connect with Jamie Van Cuyk Website Facebook Instagram Pinterest LinkedIn Listen to Jamie's podcast Free gift for listeners!  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Other Resources Mentioned: Link to Hiring & Team Management Collection on website : https://luannnigara.com/category/hiring-team-management/ A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Before we dive into today’s episode, let’s take a moment to thank our show sponsor, Revelwoods, your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 12 Aug 2022 06:00:28 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Van Cuyk: What You Need to Consider When Making Your Next Hire full 799 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jamie Van Cuyk: It seems like everywhere I turn, businesses in our industry are hiring. And yet, just as many of them are struggling to find the right way to hire and onboard for long-term success. Today, Jamie Van Cuyk of Growing Your... Today With Jamie Van Cuyk: It seems like everywhere I turn, businesses in our industry are hiring. And yet, just as many of them are struggling to find the right way to hire and onboard for long-term success. Today, Jamie Van Cuyk of Growing Your Business joins me to discuss the ins and outs of hiring the best fit employee for your team. Pick It Apart [2:14] Jamie discusses why hiring has changed so drastically in the last year and what it means for businesses looking to hire.  [20:05] Jamie shares her insights on the interview process, beginning with the job description. [34:55] Jamie and LuAnn discuss the importance of the onboarding process. [52:30] Jamie breaks down the importance of flexibility in work schedules for the modern workforce. LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Van Cuyk's Ah-Ha Moments “Just like in our design projects, the more clarity we can have upfront and the more we can create that in the job description and the job posting and the interview, the better match we’re going to ultimately end up with.” -LuAnn “The main thing about onboarding is teaching your expectations so you are happy with their performance. If you don’t teach them your expectations, they’re going to make up their own expectations.” -Jamie More About Jamie Van Cuyk: Jamie Van Cuyk, the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team, is an expert in hiring and onboarding teams within small businesses.  Drawing from over 15 years of leadership experience, Jamie teaches her clients how to hire their early team members, including employees and long-term contractors. By learning the dynamics of each company and their specific needs, she helps them and their perfect, long-lasting team members and avoids the hiring and ring cycle.  On a personal side, Jamie lives in St Petersburg, FL, with her husband and two daughters, is a hobby winemaker, loves to travel, and enjoys exercise that takes her feet off the ground, including rock climbing and aerial dance. Connect with Jamie Van Cuyk Website Facebook Instagram Pinterest LinkedIn Listen to Jamie's podcast Free gift for listeners!  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Other Resources Mentioned: Link to Hiring & Team Management Collection on website : https://luannnigara.com/category/hiring-team-management/ A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Before we dive into today’s episode, let’s take a moment to thank our show sponsor, Revelwoods, your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today With Jamie Van Cuyk:

It seems like everywhere I turn, businesses in our industry are hiring. And yet, just as many of them are struggling to find the right way to hire and onboard for long-term success. Today, Jamie Van Cuyk of Growing Your Business joins me to discuss the ins and outs of hiring the best fit employee for your team.

Pick It Apart

[2:14] Jamie discusses why hiring has changed so drastically in the last year and what it means for businesses looking to hire. 

[20:05] Jamie shares her insights on the interview process, beginning with the job description.

[34:55] Jamie and LuAnn discuss the importance of the onboarding process.

[52:30] Jamie breaks down the importance of flexibility in work schedules for the modern workforce.

LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Van Cuyk's Ah-Ha Moments

“Just like in our design projects, the more clarity we can have upfront and the more we can create that in the job description and the job posting and the interview, the better match we’re going to ultimately end up with.” -LuAnn

“The main thing about onboarding is teaching your expectations so you are happy with their performance. If you don’t teach them your expectations, they’re going to make up their own expectations.” -Jamie

More About Jamie Van Cuyk:

Jamie Van Cuyk, the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team, is an expert in hiring and onboarding teams within small businesses. 

Drawing from over 15 years of leadership experience, Jamie teaches her clients how to hire their early team members, including employees and long-term contractors. By learning the dynamics of each company and their specific needs, she helps them and their perfect, long-lasting team members and avoids the hiring and ring cycle. 

On a personal side, Jamie lives in St Petersburg, FL, with her husband and two daughters, is a hobby winemaker, loves to travel, and enjoys exercise that takes her feet off the ground, including rock climbing and aerial dance.

Connect with Jamie Van Cuyk

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Pinterest

LinkedIn

Listen to Jamie's podcast

Free gift for listeners! 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

Other Resources Mentioned:

Link to Hiring & Team Management Collection on website : https://luannnigara.com/category/hiring-team-management/

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Before we dive into today’s episode, let’s take a moment to thank our show sponsor, Revelwoods, your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 4712 no 798: Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/798-brook-perdigon-turning-a-creative-passion-into-a-thriving-business Today With Brook Perdigon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Brook Perdigon, artist, designer, and owner of  Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT). Brook emailed me describing her transition from creative artist, to creative business owner.  She explains there is an artist identity and a business owner identity. And how do we navigate that? Well Brook and I discuss all of her aha moments along her seven years in a creative business, along with the different approaches she took to those stubborn recurring challenges. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [3:20] Brook starts off with how she learned the hard way the difference between the two business identities; artist and business owner.  [22:53] Brook gives multiple ways you can reach a customer when one way doesn’t work. [40:10] Brook talks about Design Social Popups and how they’ve been beneficial in her business.  LuAnn Nigara and Brook Perdigon's Ah-Ha Moments “The creative mind always finds a way.” - Brook Perdigon “Having a goal with a timeline makes it real.” - LuAnn Nigara “My responsibility is to not only design a product, but also a functioning business that's profitable and can pay my employees.” - Brook Perdigon “As my business grows each year, my challenges evolve.” - Brook Perdigon More About Brook Perdigon: Artist and designer Brook Perdigon founded her company in 2015. Informed by history, culture, creativity and craft, Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT) has quickly grown from a small business to a global brand with showrooms across the United States as well as in the U.K., Canada, and Australia. In addition to textile collections, BPT offers wallpaper, custom fine art, and thoughtful industry collaborations. BPT has been featured in The World of Interiors, LUXE Magazine, House & Garden, C Magazine, Country Living, The New York Times, Modern Luxury and other leading design publications. Collections thread art, history and culture through the lens of modern making. Antique textiles inform Brook’s drawings and sketches, resulting in a process and practice that embraces imperfection and celebrates the human hand. Many fabrics are hand-screened on Belgian linen, and each product embodies an individual, idiosyncratic voice. A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Brook began her career as an independent artist creating custom textile collections for interior designers in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris. She went on to work as a senior designer for Tai Ping Carpets, designing textiles for high-profile clients and prestigious projects worldwide. She founded BPT, in part, to cultivate and support artists, women and fellow small business owners in her community. Many of her fabrics are printed in Los Angeles, and she regularly collaborates with local artists—a partnership with TARP, for example, led to the creation of a painted pool and dance performance inspired by her Ituri design. Brook currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Michael, their children, Mallory and Tanner. Connect with Brook Perdigon Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques For Introverts. A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Join us for the Prerequisites for Success free zoom event on September 15th at 12:30 EDT. Come spend some time with me and some of the most brilliant brains in the design industry, the incredible instructors of LuAnn University! If you know me and have been to any of my events before, you know that this is going to be tons of fun and tons of information that you can take to your business. This event is absolutely free and each instructor is going to share their best advice, the thing you should know in order to be successful in their respective areas of expertise in LU. Go to luannnigara.com/success to register. Tue, 09 Aug 2022 06:00:27 -0000 Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business full 798 LuAnn Nigara Today With Brook Perdigon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Brook Perdigon, artist, designer, and owner of  Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT). Brook emailed me describing her transition from creative artist, to creative... Today With Brook Perdigon: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Brook Perdigon, artist, designer, and owner of  Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT). Brook emailed me describing her transition from creative artist, to creative business owner.  She explains there is an artist identity and a business owner identity. And how do we navigate that? Well Brook and I discuss all of her aha moments along her seven years in a creative business, along with the different approaches she took to those stubborn recurring challenges. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [3:20] Brook starts off with how she learned the hard way the difference between the two business identities; artist and business owner.  [22:53] Brook gives multiple ways you can reach a customer when one way doesn’t work. [40:10] Brook talks about Design Social Popups and how they’ve been beneficial in her business.  LuAnn Nigara and Brook Perdigon's Ah-Ha Moments “The creative mind always finds a way.” - Brook Perdigon “Having a goal with a timeline makes it real.” - LuAnn Nigara “My responsibility is to not only design a product, but also a functioning business that's profitable and can pay my employees.” - Brook Perdigon “As my business grows each year, my challenges evolve.” - Brook Perdigon More About Brook Perdigon: Artist and designer Brook Perdigon founded her company in 2015. Informed by history, culture, creativity and craft, Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT) has quickly grown from a small business to a global brand with showrooms across the United States as well as in the U.K., Canada, and Australia. In addition to textile collections, BPT offers wallpaper, custom fine art, and thoughtful industry collaborations. BPT has been featured in The World of Interiors, LUXE Magazine, House & Garden, C Magazine, Country Living, The New York Times, Modern Luxury and other leading design publications. Collections thread art, history and culture through the lens of modern making. Antique textiles inform Brook’s drawings and sketches, resulting in a process and practice that embraces imperfection and celebrates the human hand. Many fabrics are hand-screened on Belgian linen, and each product embodies an individual, idiosyncratic voice. A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Brook began her career as an independent artist creating custom textile collections for interior designers in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris. She went on to work as a senior designer for Tai Ping Carpets, designing textiles for high-profile clients and prestigious projects worldwide. She founded BPT, in part, to cultivate and support artists, women and fellow small business owners in her community. Many of her fabrics are printed in Los Angeles, and she regularly collaborates with local artists—a partnership with TARP, for example, led to the creation of a painted pool and dance performance inspired by her Ituri design. Brook currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Michael, their children, Mallory and Tanner. Connect with Brook Perdigon Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques For Introverts. A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Join us for the Prerequisites for Success free zoom event on September 15th at 12:30 EDT. Come spend some time with me and some of the most brilliant brains in the design industry, the incredible instructors of LuAnn University! If you know me and have been to any of my events before, you know that this is going to be tons of fun and tons of information that you can take to your business. This event is absolutely free and each instructor is going to share their best advice, the thing you should know in order to be successful in their respective areas of expertise in LU. Go to luannnigara.com/success to register. Today With Brook Perdigon:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Brook Perdigon, artist, designer, and owner of  Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT). Brook emailed me describing her transition from creative artist, to creative business owner.  She explains there is an artist identity and a business owner identity. And how do we navigate that? Well Brook and I discuss all of her aha moments along her seven years in a creative business, along with the different approaches she took to those stubborn recurring challenges. Enjoy!

Pick It Apart

[3:20] Brook starts off with how she learned the hard way the difference between the two business identities; artist and business owner. 

[22:53] Brook gives multiple ways you can reach a customer when one way doesn’t work.

[40:10] Brook talks about Design Social Popups and how they’ve been beneficial in her business. 

LuAnn Nigara and Brook Perdigon's Ah-Ha Moments

“The creative mind always finds a way.” - Brook Perdigon

“Having a goal with a timeline makes it real.” - LuAnn Nigara

“My responsibility is to not only design a product, but also a functioning business that's profitable and can pay my employees.” - Brook Perdigon

“As my business grows each year, my challenges evolve.” - Brook Perdigon

More About Brook Perdigon:

Artist and designer Brook Perdigon founded her company in 2015. Informed by history, culture, creativity and craft, Brook Perdigon Textiles (BPT) has quickly grown from a small business to a global brand with showrooms across the United States as well as in the U.K., Canada, and Australia. In addition to textile collections, BPT offers wallpaper, custom fine art, and thoughtful industry collaborations. BPT has been featured in The World of Interiors, LUXE Magazine, House & Garden, C Magazine, Country Living, The New York Times, Modern Luxury and other leading design publications. Collections thread art, history and culture through the lens of modern making. Antique textiles inform Brook’s drawings and sketches, resulting in a process and practice that embraces imperfection and celebrates the human hand. Many fabrics are hand-screened on Belgian linen, and each product embodies an individual, idiosyncratic voice. A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Brook began her career as an independent artist creating custom textile collections for interior designers in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris. She went on to work as a senior designer for Tai Ping Carpets, designing textiles for high-profile clients and prestigious projects worldwide. She founded BPT, in part, to cultivate and support artists, women and fellow small business owners in her community. Many of her fabrics are printed in Los Angeles, and she regularly collaborates with local artists—a partnership with TARP, for example, led to the creation of a painted pool and dance performance inspired by her Ituri design. Brook currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Michael, their children, Mallory and Tanner.

Connect with Brook Perdigon

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques For Introverts.

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Join us for the Prerequisites for Success free zoom event on September 15th at 12:30 EDT. Come spend some time with me and some of the most brilliant brains in the design industry, the incredible instructors of LuAnn University! If you know me and have been to any of my events before, you know that this is going to be tons of fun and tons of information that you can take to your business. This event is absolutely free and each instructor is going to share their best advice, the thing you should know in order to be successful in their respective areas of expertise in LU.

Go to luannnigara.com/success to register.

]]> 3823 no 797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/797-power-talk-friday-andrea-liebross-what-you-are-worth-in-dollars-and-sense Today With Andrea Liebross: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Andrea Liebross, certified business and life coach, podcaster and owner of Andrea Liebross Coaching, LLC. is here to talk about self worth. She provides some great tips, strategies, and facts that will help us ditch our doubt in our skills and what we charge, and come out with one hundred percent assurance in how we conduct our business. Even I took a page out of Andrea’s book from the great tips she was offering. This is definitely worth the listen if you ever feel stuck or if your business feels stagnant due to not recognizing your own worth.  Pick It Apart [4:30] Andrea shares how she approaches the subject of worthiness with her clients. [15:30] Andrea starts to explain what to do next when you aren’t believing in yourself and your self worth.  [31:49] Andrea shares how to find emotional and financially mature clients. [51:50] Andrea tells us about her podcast Time to Level Up and how you can reach her. LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross' Ah-Ha Moments “The more dissonance you have with your worth, the more drama you have about your worth or pricing.” - Andrea Liebross “You need to think that you are undercharging them and over delivering.” - Andrea Liebross “You have a talent and a gift that we need, but if you don’t create a sustainable business that provides you with the lifestyle you deserve then how can you stay in business so people can enjoy your gifts?” - LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Liebross: After graduating from Dartmouth College and marrying the guy that lived down the hall, Andrea Liebross and her husband packed up the 1980s red Cadillac, left the northeast, and eventually made their way to the midwest city known for the Indianapolis 500. Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems). Connect with Andrea Liebross Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat.  Time to Level Up Episode 30- What Are You Worth? How to Put a Price on it. A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:21:22 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense. full 797 LuAnn Nigara Today With Andrea Liebross: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Andrea Liebross, certified business and life coach, podcaster and owner of Andrea Liebross Coaching, LLC. is here to talk about self worth. She provides some great tips,... Today With Andrea Liebross: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Andrea Liebross, certified business and life coach, podcaster and owner of Andrea Liebross Coaching, LLC. is here to talk about self worth. She provides some great tips, strategies, and facts that will help us ditch our doubt in our skills and what we charge, and come out with one hundred percent assurance in how we conduct our business. Even I took a page out of Andrea’s book from the great tips she was offering. This is definitely worth the listen if you ever feel stuck or if your business feels stagnant due to not recognizing your own worth.  Pick It Apart [4:30] Andrea shares how she approaches the subject of worthiness with her clients. [15:30] Andrea starts to explain what to do next when you aren’t believing in yourself and your self worth.  [31:49] Andrea shares how to find emotional and financially mature clients. [51:50] Andrea tells us about her podcast Time to Level Up and how you can reach her. LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross' Ah-Ha Moments “The more dissonance you have with your worth, the more drama you have about your worth or pricing.” - Andrea Liebross “You need to think that you are undercharging them and over delivering.” - Andrea Liebross “You have a talent and a gift that we need, but if you don’t create a sustainable business that provides you with the lifestyle you deserve then how can you stay in business so people can enjoy your gifts?” - LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Liebross: After graduating from Dartmouth College and marrying the guy that lived down the hall, Andrea Liebross and her husband packed up the 1980s red Cadillac, left the northeast, and eventually made their way to the midwest city known for the Indianapolis 500. Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems). Connect with Andrea Liebross Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat.  Time to Level Up Episode 30- What Are You Worth? How to Put a Price on it. A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Today With Andrea Liebross:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, Andrea Liebross, certified business and life coach, podcaster and owner of Andrea Liebross Coaching, LLC. is here to talk about self worth. She provides some great tips, strategies, and facts that will help us ditch our doubt in our skills and what we charge, and come out with one hundred percent assurance in how we conduct our business. Even I took a page out of Andrea’s book from the great tips she was offering. This is definitely worth the listen if you ever feel stuck or if your business feels stagnant due to not recognizing your own worth. 

Pick It Apart

[4:30] Andrea shares how she approaches the subject of worthiness with her clients.

[15:30] Andrea starts to explain what to do next when you aren’t believing in yourself and your self worth. 

[31:49] Andrea shares how to find emotional and financially mature clients.

[51:50] Andrea tells us about her podcast Time to Level Up and how you can reach her.

LuAnn Nigara and Andrea Liebross' Ah-Ha Moments

“The more dissonance you have with your worth, the more drama you have about your worth or pricing.” - Andrea Liebross

“You need to think that you are undercharging them and over delivering.” - Andrea Liebross

“You have a talent and a gift that we need, but if you don’t create a sustainable business that provides you with the lifestyle you deserve then how can you stay in business so people can enjoy your gifts?” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Andrea Liebross:

After graduating from Dartmouth College and marrying the guy that lived down the hall, Andrea Liebross and her husband packed up the 1980s red Cadillac, left the northeast, and eventually made their way to the midwest city known for the Indianapolis 500. Over the last few decades, Andrea has started 3 successful businesses, all while raising two kids, now ages 20 and 17, and several giant puppies. As a certified business and life coach, Andrea's known for helping high-achieving women make the shift from overwhelm to freedom in both their personal and professional life. Her goal is to guide these bold, ambitious women to create their own custom secret sauce for success by combining just two ingredients - the right mindset and solid systems. Andrea believes every problem is solvable and every dream is possible IF you make it all simple, doable and FUN (even the systems).

Connect with Andrea Liebross

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat. 

Time to Level Up Episode 30- What Are You Worth? How to Put a Price on it.

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5 week courses are up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3 hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 4039 no 796: Allison Handler: From Fashion Designer to Interior Designer: Earning $1 Million Gross in Her First Year http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/796-allison-handler-from-fashion-designer-to-interior-designer-earning-1-million-gross-in-her-first-year Today With Allison Handler: Welcome to A Well-Design Business. Today I am joined by Allison Handler, owner of Allison Handler Design. Through listening to AWDB, taking courses at LuAnn University, facing hard challenges and creating important relationships, Allison earned $1 million in gross sales, in her first year of business. Allison reached out to me and I was impressed with her work ethic and story. She wanted to share with you everything she learned in that first year, including what she learned about systems and processes, forming relationships, and the hard lessons along the way. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [13:18] Allison starts to share her story. [27:19] Allison provides tips on how she navigates the conversation regarding budget. [37:05] Allison shares struggles and aha moments along the way. [39:20] What Allison would suggest for someone who doesn't feel like they have a good trade support team. LuAnn Nigara and Allison Handler's Ah-Ha Moments “I can’t be successful, if I don’t know the budget and it’s not realistic.” - Allison Handler “There’s so much power to the relationships that we build, but the motor to that power is having the courage to put yourself out there.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Allison Handler: It all begins and ends with relationships. Allison Handler Design prides itself on building and maintaining incredible relationships with both clients and vendors, working hard every day to make sure that a client’s wants and needs are satisfied by keeping a close-knit but wide-reaching team of vendor partners on hand to seamlessly execute the vision. As lead designer and visionary, Allison oversees all projects, ensuring the AHD aesthetic is incorporated while keeping the client’s personal preferences foremost. We strongly believe in making the most out of every clients’ budget, and source from the best mid-to-high end suppliers including well-known brands and exclusive smaller artisans, to ensure long lasting and high quality products that will last and feel unique to each space.  On a personal note, Allison was born and raised right here in Bergen County, NJ. After moving to Florida at age 15 with her family, she returned to the northeast after college to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Twenty years later, after getting married and having a family of her own, she knew it was time for a change. Allison Handler Design was born, almost by accident, after several friends and family members asked for help with their own home projects. Building off her fashion roots, Allison discovered she had a major passion and natural talent for interiors and decided to pursue it as a new career path. Allison Handler Design is now a thriving business thanks to the support of current and past clients, and we look forward to continuing to grow and carve out our place in this little corner of the world. Connect with Allison Handler Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #779- Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? #786- Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries. We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5-week courses is up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3-hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Tue, 02 Aug 2022 06:00:09 -0000 Allison Handler: From Fashion Designer to Interior Designer: Earning $1 Million Gross in Her First Year full 796 LuAnn Nigara Today With Allison Handler: Welcome to A Well-Design Business. Today I am joined by Allison Handler, owner of Allison Handler Design. Through listening to AWDB, taking courses at LuAnn University, facing hard challenges and creating important... Today With Allison Handler: Welcome to A Well-Design Business. Today I am joined by Allison Handler, owner of Allison Handler Design. Through listening to AWDB, taking courses at LuAnn University, facing hard challenges and creating important relationships, Allison earned $1 million in gross sales, in her first year of business. Allison reached out to me and I was impressed with her work ethic and story. She wanted to share with you everything she learned in that first year, including what she learned about systems and processes, forming relationships, and the hard lessons along the way. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [13:18] Allison starts to share her story. [27:19] Allison provides tips on how she navigates the conversation regarding budget. [37:05] Allison shares struggles and aha moments along the way. [39:20] What Allison would suggest for someone who doesn't feel like they have a good trade support team. LuAnn Nigara and Allison Handler's Ah-Ha Moments “I can’t be successful, if I don’t know the budget and it’s not realistic.” - Allison Handler “There’s so much power to the relationships that we build, but the motor to that power is having the courage to put yourself out there.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Allison Handler: It all begins and ends with relationships. Allison Handler Design prides itself on building and maintaining incredible relationships with both clients and vendors, working hard every day to make sure that a client’s wants and needs are satisfied by keeping a close-knit but wide-reaching team of vendor partners on hand to seamlessly execute the vision. As lead designer and visionary, Allison oversees all projects, ensuring the AHD aesthetic is incorporated while keeping the client’s personal preferences foremost. We strongly believe in making the most out of every clients’ budget, and source from the best mid-to-high end suppliers including well-known brands and exclusive smaller artisans, to ensure long lasting and high quality products that will last and feel unique to each space.  On a personal note, Allison was born and raised right here in Bergen County, NJ. After moving to Florida at age 15 with her family, she returned to the northeast after college to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Twenty years later, after getting married and having a family of her own, she knew it was time for a change. Allison Handler Design was born, almost by accident, after several friends and family members asked for help with their own home projects. Building off her fashion roots, Allison discovered she had a major passion and natural talent for interiors and decided to pursue it as a new career path. Allison Handler Design is now a thriving business thanks to the support of current and past clients, and we look forward to continuing to grow and carve out our place in this little corner of the world. Connect with Allison Handler Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #779- Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? #786- Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University. This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries. We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5-week courses is up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3-hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too. Today With Allison Handler:

Welcome to A Well-Design Business. Today I am joined by Allison Handler, owner of Allison Handler Design. Through listening to AWDB, taking courses at LuAnn University, facing hard challenges and creating important relationships, Allison earned $1 million in gross sales, in her first year of business.

Allison reached out to me and I was impressed with her work ethic and story. She wanted to share with you everything she learned in that first year, including what she learned about systems and processes, forming relationships, and the hard lessons along the way. Enjoy!

Pick It Apart

[13:18] Allison starts to share her story.

[27:19] Allison provides tips on how she navigates the conversation regarding budget.

[37:05] Allison shares struggles and aha moments along the way.

[39:20] What Allison would suggest for someone who doesn't feel like they have a good trade support team.

LuAnn Nigara and Allison Handler's Ah-Ha Moments

“I can’t be successful, if I don’t know the budget and it’s not realistic.” - Allison Handler

“There’s so much power to the relationships that we build, but the motor to that power is having the courage to put yourself out there.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Allison Handler:

It all begins and ends with relationships. Allison Handler Design prides itself on building and maintaining incredible relationships with both clients and vendors, working hard every day to make sure that a client’s wants and needs are satisfied by keeping a close-knit but wide-reaching team of vendor partners on hand to seamlessly execute the vision. As lead designer and visionary, Allison oversees all projects, ensuring the AHD aesthetic is incorporated while keeping the client’s personal preferences foremost. We strongly believe in making the most out of every clients’ budget, and source from the best mid-to-high end suppliers including well-known brands and exclusive smaller artisans, to ensure long lasting and high quality products that will last and feel unique to each space. 

On a personal note, Allison was born and raised right here in Bergen County, NJ. After moving to Florida at age 15 with her family, she returned to the northeast after college to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Twenty years later, after getting married and having a family of her own, she knew it was time for a change. Allison Handler Design was born, almost by accident, after several friends and family members asked for help with their own home projects. Building off her fashion roots, Allison discovered she had a major passion and natural talent for interiors and decided to pursue it as a new career path. Allison Handler Design is now a thriving business thanks to the support of current and past clients, and we look forward to continuing to grow and carve out our place in this little corner of the world.

Connect with Allison Handler

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#779- Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing?

#786- Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today's episode is sponsored by LuAnn University.

This is not just education. Not just the support of your colleagues. And not just a great experience. Each department and class is crafted to provide targeted, proven instruction in key areas for profit and growth—all specific to the interior design and window treatment industries.

We are opening again this fall 2022 so do yourself a favor and look into this and all others we have coming at luannuniversity.com. The current roster for all of our 5-week courses is up, but please keep checking back because we are launching, brand new 3-hour intensives this semester as well. So check it out but go back in a few weeks to see the updates too.

]]> 3691 no 795: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: Profitable Interior Design Firms Track Their Data http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/795-power-talk-friday-katie-mcfarlan-profitable-interior-design-firms-track-their-data Today With Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What does it take to be successful? We talk about it week in and week out on the show. There are so many details, so many facets to business success. But there are a handful of business practices that every successful designer puts into place—the things that set them apart from those who struggle. Today, Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Co joins me to share the six business practices she believes are key to a well-designed business. Pick It Apart [11:54] Katie breaks down why setting a project minimum is important and the different ways to do it.  [22:57] LuAnn and Katie discuss the value of clear service offerings and processes. [32:57] Katie shares why investing in yourself is vital. [47:42] LuAnn and Katie talk about professional photography and why it matters even if you don’t have projects yet.  [51:28] Katie highlights how setting boundaries helps with business success. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McFarlan's Ah-Ha Moments “The more clarity you can put around things the less opportunity there is for designers to complain about “scope creep.” If you didn’t define what it is that you do, how is the client supposed to know that it’s out of the parameters?” -LuAnn   “When you do the same thing over and over again, it’s good at getting you to be more efficient and working out the kinks. Your clients will enjoy working with you more when they know what to expect.” -Katie More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, Katie enjoys using both her creative and analytical sides to find solutions that work for her clients. With her intimate knowledge of how both industries work, she knows what it takes to get behind-the-scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a sustainable and professional way. Today her business, Dakota Design Company, helps interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. Through consulting and done-for-you implementation, she and her all-female team streamline their clients’ services and pricing, create strategic client experiences, and refine and implement processes their teams and customers will appreciate. Connect with Katie McFarlan Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #678 Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio, your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Fri, 29 Jul 2022 06:00:12 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: Profitable Interior Design Firms Track Their Data full 795 LuAnn Nigara Today With Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What does it take to be successful? We talk about it week in and week out on the show. There are so many details, so many facets to business success. But there are a handful of business... Today With Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What does it take to be successful? We talk about it week in and week out on the show. There are so many details, so many facets to business success. But there are a handful of business practices that every successful designer puts into place—the things that set them apart from those who struggle. Today, Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Co joins me to share the six business practices she believes are key to a well-designed business. Pick It Apart [11:54] Katie breaks down why setting a project minimum is important and the different ways to do it.  [22:57] LuAnn and Katie discuss the value of clear service offerings and processes. [32:57] Katie shares why investing in yourself is vital. [47:42] LuAnn and Katie talk about professional photography and why it matters even if you don’t have projects yet.  [51:28] Katie highlights how setting boundaries helps with business success. LuAnn Nigara and Katie McFarlan's Ah-Ha Moments “The more clarity you can put around things the less opportunity there is for designers to complain about “scope creep.” If you didn’t define what it is that you do, how is the client supposed to know that it’s out of the parameters?” -LuAnn   “When you do the same thing over and over again, it’s good at getting you to be more efficient and working out the kinks. Your clients will enjoy working with you more when they know what to expect.” -Katie More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, Katie enjoys using both her creative and analytical sides to find solutions that work for her clients. With her intimate knowledge of how both industries work, she knows what it takes to get behind-the-scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a sustainable and professional way. Today her business, Dakota Design Company, helps interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. Through consulting and done-for-you implementation, she and her all-female team streamline their clients’ services and pricing, create strategic client experiences, and refine and implement processes their teams and customers will appreciate. Connect with Katie McFarlan Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #678 Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio, your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Today With Katie McFarlan:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What does it take to be successful? We talk about it week in and week out on the show. There are so many details, so many facets to business success. But there are a handful of business practices that every successful designer puts into place—the things that set them apart from those who struggle. Today, Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Co joins me to share the six business practices she believes are key to a well-designed business.

Pick It Apart

  • [11:54] Katie breaks down why setting a project minimum is important and the different ways to do it. 
  • [22:57] LuAnn and Katie discuss the value of clear service offerings and processes.
  • [32:57] Katie shares why investing in yourself is vital.
  • [47:42] LuAnn and Katie talk about professional photography and why it matters even if you don’t have projects yet. 
  • [51:28] Katie highlights how setting boundaries helps with business success.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie McFarlan's Ah-Ha Moments

“The more clarity you can put around things the less opportunity there is for designers to complain about “scope creep.” If you didn’t define what it is that you do, how is the client supposed to know that it’s out of the parameters?” -LuAnn

 

“When you do the same thing over and over again, it’s good at getting you to be more efficient and working out the kinks. Your clients will enjoy working with you more when they know what to expect.” -Katie

More About Katie McFarlan:

As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, Katie enjoys using both her creative and analytical sides to find solutions that work for her clients. With her intimate knowledge of how both industries work, she knows what it takes to get behind-the-scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a sustainable and professional way. Today her business, Dakota Design Company, helps interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. Through consulting and done-for-you implementation, she and her all-female team streamline their clients’ services and pricing, create strategic client experiences, and refine and implement processes their teams and customers will appreciate.

Connect with Katie McFarlan

Website

Instagram  

Blog

Client Experience Download for listeners

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#678 Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio, your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

]]> 5367 no 794: Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/794-renee-biery-do-clients-know-you-can-handle-project-management Today With Renee Biery: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am chatting with Renee Biery, owner of  deVignier Design, Inc. and Only Girl On the Jobsite podcast. Renee works in restoration as well as new construction and she wanted to share with my listeners how renovation management is a stable income for interior designers throughout the year, as procurement and decorating ebbs and flows per job. A lot of takeaways here. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [3:50] Renee describes the scope of renovation management in her business. [14:26] Renee shares how she changed the initial conversations with her clients, so that they would consider her for renovation management as well. [22:53] Renee shares another way we can position ourselves to clients as their one stop shop. [32:40] Renee gives us tips as designers on how we can confidently show up at a typically male dominated job site. LuAnn Nigara and Renee Biery's Ah-Ha Moments “Many designers are doing renovation management, but don’t necessarily lead with it in their marketing.” - Renee Biery   “There’s a lot of different people with different skill sets that are needed to complete the project, but they don’t have overlapping skills. A designer can add to that and elevate any project.” - Renee Biery   “View yourself as an equal on the team. You are not above and you are not below.” - Renee Biery    “In order to be taken seriously, you have to show up seriously.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Renee Biery: Renée deVignier Biery, ASID, is an interior designer based in Wilmington, Delaware. She is a graduate of the New York School of Interior Design, one of the country’s oldest conservatory interior design programs, earning a degree with distinction in 1994 as an Associate in Applied Science in Interior Design. Biery is formally trained in practical interior architecture with advanced technical and rendering proficiency. Her credentials include NCIDQ board licensing as a professional member of the ASID, the design industry’s highest certification.    For Biery, design is a lifelong calling. It is a throughline of home life, from the traditional American houses of the Delaware Valley, to her training and professional experience in the design world of New York, and back again to her roots in Wilmington. Across this map of influences, design has given Renée the way to celebrate a sense of place that is both local and original.    Renée deVignier Biery was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, home to the Winterthur Museum among many important and historic residences and gardens. Good design was always in her surroundings, “a common language of big rambling homes filled with proper antiques,” she explains. She drew her inspiration early from a number of grandly formal old houses belonging to members of her own family in Virginia and especially from her two grandmothers—one, a southern, Virginia lady with an eye for cutting-edge New York and European fashion, and the other, a social worker who had a talent for understanding people deeply. Those qualities combine in Biery’s approach to design. She puts people and their practical needs first. She aims to create work that will be lasting and meaningful. She views tradition with an edge but also with a natural, truly southern civility.   During and following her schooling, Biery worked in the design field in New York. She began in 1993 as an associate in the legendary Lexington Avenue boutique of designer Charlotte Moss. She spent several years as a senior designer in the firm of Barbara Hauben Ross, a well-known New York designer who specializes in refined, luxury Art Deco interiors. During this tenure Biery honed her skill not only in historical and architectural renovation, but also, specifically, in the edited simplicity of early modern color, shape, and structure. The experience has given her a quietly pared-down viewpoint to balance more embellished, traditional environments.   Biery returned permanently to Wilmington in 2000 and established her own firm, deVignier Design, Inc. She works in restoration as well as new construction, and remains committed to the personal attention of a studio practice where she is fully involved from inception to installation with every assignment. “These are people who are sharing their lives with me, who will often spend a number of years with me on a project,” she says. “If I do my job right, the relationship is as lasting as the work, and the resulting house will look like the homeowners, not me.” Connect with Renee Biery Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #16- Charles Pavarini: Behind the Scenes of the Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 #305- Elizabeth Scruggs: The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. #380- Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Tue, 26 Jul 2022 06:00:24 -0000 Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management? full 794 LuAnn Nigara Today With Renee Biery: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am chatting with Renee Biery, owner of  deVignier Design, Inc. and Only Girl On the Jobsite podcast. Renee works in restoration as well as new construction and she wanted to... Today With Renee Biery: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am chatting with Renee Biery, owner of  deVignier Design, Inc. and Only Girl On the Jobsite podcast. Renee works in restoration as well as new construction and she wanted to share with my listeners how renovation management is a stable income for interior designers throughout the year, as procurement and decorating ebbs and flows per job. A lot of takeaways here. Enjoy! Pick It Apart [3:50] Renee describes the scope of renovation management in her business. [14:26] Renee shares how she changed the initial conversations with her clients, so that they would consider her for renovation management as well. [22:53] Renee shares another way we can position ourselves to clients as their one stop shop. [32:40] Renee gives us tips as designers on how we can confidently show up at a typically male dominated job site. LuAnn Nigara and Renee Biery's Ah-Ha Moments “Many designers are doing renovation management, but don’t necessarily lead with it in their marketing.” - Renee Biery   “There’s a lot of different people with different skill sets that are needed to complete the project, but they don’t have overlapping skills. A designer can add to that and elevate any project.” - Renee Biery   “View yourself as an equal on the team. You are not above and you are not below.” - Renee Biery    “In order to be taken seriously, you have to show up seriously.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Renee Biery: Renée deVignier Biery, ASID, is an interior designer based in Wilmington, Delaware. She is a graduate of the New York School of Interior Design, one of the country’s oldest conservatory interior design programs, earning a degree with distinction in 1994 as an Associate in Applied Science in Interior Design. Biery is formally trained in practical interior architecture with advanced technical and rendering proficiency. Her credentials include NCIDQ board licensing as a professional member of the ASID, the design industry’s highest certification.    For Biery, design is a lifelong calling. It is a throughline of home life, from the traditional American houses of the Delaware Valley, to her training and professional experience in the design world of New York, and back again to her roots in Wilmington. Across this map of influences, design has given Renée the way to celebrate a sense of place that is both local and original.    Renée deVignier Biery was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, home to the Winterthur Museum among many important and historic residences and gardens. Good design was always in her surroundings, “a common language of big rambling homes filled with proper antiques,” she explains. She drew her inspiration early from a number of grandly formal old houses belonging to members of her own family in Virginia and especially from her two grandmothers—one, a southern, Virginia lady with an eye for cutting-edge New York and European fashion, and the other, a social worker who had a talent for understanding people deeply. Those qualities combine in Biery’s approach to design. She puts people and their practical needs first. She aims to create work that will be lasting and meaningful. She views tradition with an edge but also with a natural, truly southern civility.   During and following her schooling, Biery worked in the design field in New York. She began in 1993 as an associate in the legendary Lexington Avenue boutique of designer Charlotte Moss. She spent several years as a senior designer in the firm of Barbara Hauben Ross, a well-known New York designer who specializes in refined, luxury Art Deco interiors. During this tenure Biery honed her skill not only in historical and architectural renovation, but also, specifically, in the edited simplicity of early modern color, shape, and structure. The experience has given her a quietly pared-down viewpoint to balance more embellished, traditional environments.   Biery returned permanently to Wilmington in 2000 and established her own firm, deVignier Design, Inc. She works in restoration as well as new construction, and remains committed to the personal attention of a studio practice where she is fully involved from inception to installation with every assignment. “These are people who are sharing their lives with me, who will often spend a number of years with me on a project,” she says. “If I do my job right, the relationship is as lasting as the work, and the resulting house will look like the homeowners, not me.” Connect with Renee Biery Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #16- Charles Pavarini: Behind the Scenes of the Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 #305- Elizabeth Scruggs: The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. #380- Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Today With Renee Biery:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am chatting with Renee Biery, owner of  deVignier Design, Inc. and Only Girl On the Jobsite podcast. Renee works in restoration as well as new construction and she wanted to share with my listeners how renovation management is a stable income for interior designers throughout the year, as procurement and decorating ebbs and flows per job. A lot of takeaways here. Enjoy!

Pick It Apart

[3:50] Renee describes the scope of renovation management in her business.

[14:26] Renee shares how she changed the initial conversations with her clients, so that they would consider her for renovation management as well.

[22:53] Renee shares another way we can position ourselves to clients as their one stop shop.

[32:40] Renee gives us tips as designers on how we can confidently show up at a typically male dominated job site.

LuAnn Nigara and Renee Biery's Ah-Ha Moments

“Many designers are doing renovation management, but don’t necessarily lead with it in their marketing.” - Renee Biery

 

“There’s a lot of different people with different skill sets that are needed to complete the project, but they don’t have overlapping skills. A designer can add to that and elevate any project.” - Renee Biery

 

“View yourself as an equal on the team. You are not above and you are not below.” - Renee Biery 

 

“In order to be taken seriously, you have to show up seriously.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Renee Biery:

Renée deVignier Biery, ASID, is an interior designer based in Wilmington, Delaware. She is a graduate of the New York School of Interior Design, one of the country’s oldest conservatory interior design programs, earning a degree with distinction in 1994 as an Associate in Applied Science in Interior Design. Biery is formally trained in practical interior architecture with advanced technical and rendering proficiency. Her credentials include NCIDQ board licensing as a professional member of the ASID, the design industry’s highest certification. 

 

For Biery, design is a lifelong calling. It is a throughline of home life, from the traditional American houses of the Delaware Valley, to her training and professional experience in the design world of New York, and back again to her roots in Wilmington. Across this map of influences, design has given Renée the way to celebrate a sense of place that is both local and original. 

 

Renée deVignier Biery was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, home to the Winterthur Museum among many important and historic residences and gardens. Good design was always in her surroundings, “a common language of big rambling homes filled with proper antiques,” she explains. She drew her inspiration early from a number of grandly formal old houses belonging to members of her own family in Virginia and especially from her two grandmothers—one, a southern, Virginia lady with an eye for cutting-edge New York and European fashion, and the other, a social worker who had a talent for understanding people deeply. Those qualities combine in Biery’s approach to design. She puts people and their practical needs first. She aims to create work that will be lasting and meaningful. She views tradition with an edge but also with a natural, truly southern civility.

 

During and following her schooling, Biery worked in the design field in New York. She began in 1993 as an associate in the legendary Lexington Avenue boutique of designer Charlotte Moss. She spent several years as a senior designer in the firm of Barbara Hauben Ross, a well-known New York designer who specializes in refined, luxury Art Deco interiors. During this tenure Biery honed her skill not only in historical and architectural renovation, but also, specifically, in the edited simplicity of early modern color, shape, and structure. The experience has given her a quietly pared-down viewpoint to balance more embellished, traditional environments.

 

Biery returned permanently to Wilmington in 2000 and established her own firm, deVignier Design, Inc. She works in restoration as well as new construction, and remains committed to the personal attention of a studio practice where she is fully involved from inception to installation with every assignment. “These are people who are sharing their lives with me, who will often spend a number of years with me on a project,” she says. “If I do my job right, the relationship is as lasting as the work, and the resulting house will look like the homeowners, not me.”

Connect with Renee Biery

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

LinkedIn

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#16- Charles Pavarini: Behind the Scenes of the Architectural Digest Design Show 2016

#305- Elizabeth Scruggs: The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business.

#380- Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness 

]]> 3939 no 793: Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/793-window-treatment-friday-how-to-breakdown-pricing-for-your-customers Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 4 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. Today, we are talking about how to breakdown your pricing for a client. How much detail do you include? How do you explain labor, fabric, hardware, and installation costs? We talk about it all! Tune in to learn how to have this tough conversation like a pro. More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today’s Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Fri, 22 Jul 2022 06:00:12 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers full 793 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 4 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 4 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. Today, we are talking about how to breakdown your pricing for a client. How much detail do you include? How do you explain labor, fabric, hardware, and installation costs? We talk about it all! Tune in to learn how to have this tough conversation like a pro. More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today’s Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com. Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 4 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.

Today, we are talking about how to breakdown your pricing for a client. How much detail do you include? How do you explain labor, fabric, hardware, and installation costs? We talk about it all! Tune in to learn how to have this tough conversation like a pro.

More About Vita Vygovska

Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives.

Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A BIG Thank You to Today’s Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.

]]> 3918 no 792: Jessica Davis: How to Establish Client Accountability http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-792 Today With Jessica Davis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Jessica  Davis of JL Design in Nashville, Tennessee is joining me to share her tried and true strategies to hold clients accountable at the beginning, middle, and end of your project. We’ve all been on a tense phone call with a client about something not going their way. You think about all the ways this could have been avoided. Today Jessica shares her strategies to hold your clients, and yes sometimes even holding yourself accountable. More About Jessica Davis: Jessica Davis founded JL Design in 2005. She is a graduate of Watkins College of Art in Nashville Tennessee, and brings 18 years of Interior Design experience to the JL Design team. “I knew I wanted to be involved in Design at a very young age, when I realized there were always new challenges to overcome. I have always been surrounded by the arts and I have always felt that my inner creativity would ultimately guide me in my career. I wanted to be a part of something that would allow me to work closely with people and enrich their lives through design. For me, Interior Design is defined by functional, unique, creativity tailored to each individual.” With a degree in Interior Design, Jessica began consulting on Design projects in Middle Tennessee, and was soon being commissioned for jobs in New York, New Jersey, and Miami. JL Design’s reputation for innovative Interior Design solutions has made it a leader in its class. “I feel so fortunate to be able to bring my devotion and energy to my clients every day, and forge relationships that I find so crucial when working in someone's home or personal space. There will always be a need for functional, progressive Interior Design, and I am committed to the art form and the evolving industry as it meets the needs of today.” Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family. Connect with Jessica Davis Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Tue, 19 Jul 2022 06:00:47 -0000 Jessica Davis: How to Establish Client Accountability full 792 LuAnn Nigara Today With Jessica Davis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Jessica  Davis of JL Design in Nashville, Tennessee is joining me to share her tried and true strategies to hold clients accountable at the beginning, middle, and end of your... Today With Jessica Davis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Jessica  Davis of JL Design in Nashville, Tennessee is joining me to share her tried and true strategies to hold clients accountable at the beginning, middle, and end of your project. We’ve all been on a tense phone call with a client about something not going their way. You think about all the ways this could have been avoided. Today Jessica shares her strategies to hold your clients, and yes sometimes even holding yourself accountable. More About Jessica Davis: Jessica Davis founded JL Design in 2005. She is a graduate of Watkins College of Art in Nashville Tennessee, and brings 18 years of Interior Design experience to the JL Design team. “I knew I wanted to be involved in Design at a very young age, when I realized there were always new challenges to overcome. I have always been surrounded by the arts and I have always felt that my inner creativity would ultimately guide me in my career. I wanted to be a part of something that would allow me to work closely with people and enrich their lives through design. For me, Interior Design is defined by functional, unique, creativity tailored to each individual.” With a degree in Interior Design, Jessica began consulting on Design projects in Middle Tennessee, and was soon being commissioned for jobs in New York, New Jersey, and Miami. JL Design’s reputation for innovative Interior Design solutions has made it a leader in its class. “I feel so fortunate to be able to bring my devotion and energy to my clients every day, and forge relationships that I find so crucial when working in someone's home or personal space. There will always be a need for functional, progressive Interior Design, and I am committed to the art form and the evolving industry as it meets the needs of today.” Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family. Connect with Jessica Davis Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Today With Jessica Davis:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Jessica  Davis of JL Design in Nashville, Tennessee is joining me to share her tried and true strategies to hold clients accountable at the beginning, middle, and end of your project. We’ve all been on a tense phone call with a client about something not going their way. You think about all the ways this could have been avoided. Today Jessica shares her strategies to hold your clients, and yes sometimes even holding yourself accountable.

More About Jessica Davis:

Jessica Davis founded JL Design in 2005. She is a graduate of Watkins College of Art in Nashville Tennessee, and brings 18 years of Interior Design experience to the JL Design team.

“I knew I wanted to be involved in Design at a very young age, when I realized there were always new challenges to overcome. I have always been surrounded by the arts and I have always felt that my inner creativity would ultimately guide me in my career. I wanted to be a part of something that would allow me to work closely with people and enrich their lives through design. For me, Interior Design is defined by functional, unique, creativity tailored to each individual.”

With a degree in Interior Design, Jessica began consulting on Design projects in Middle Tennessee, and was soon being commissioned for jobs in New York, New Jersey, and Miami. JL Design’s reputation for innovative Interior Design solutions has made it a leader in its class.

“I feel so fortunate to be able to bring my devotion and energy to my clients every day, and forge relationships that I find so crucial when working in someone's home or personal space. There will always be a need for functional, progressive Interior Design, and I am committed to the art form and the evolving industry as it meets the needs of today.”

Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family.

Connect with Jessica Davis

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness 

]]> 4441 no 791: Power Talk Friday: Carrie Flynn: Launching an Online Product or Service With Simplicity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/791-power-talk-friday-carrie-flynn-launching-an-online-product-or-service-with-simplicity Today With Carrie Flynn: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today Carrie Flynn, owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC. is joining us to talk about all things, launching.  Listen, I’ve launched a lot of successful programs; Money, Mindset & Sales, the Power Talk Friday Tour…but I would be lying if I said I did it all by myself and knew exactly what I was doing in terms of the TECH side. Thank God for my team! We, as creatives, have the brains, expertise, and superpower, but launching can be overwhelming.  Carrie is a certified Master Marketer and Launch Manager and is here to prepare us for what to expect (including the roller coaster of emotions), do, and not to do when it comes to launching a new product or service. Enjoy! More About Carrie Flynn: Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family. Pick it apart: [1:50] Carrie explains what it means to be a certified master marketer and certified launch manager.  [10:30] Carrie gives some ideas you can take on your own to vet your launching idea to see if it will even work. [23:55] Carrie gets more in depth on how to prepare for the emotional side of a launch.  [37:40] Do you need to invest in ads and if so, what is a healthy budget? LuAnn and Carrie Flynn's Ah-Ha Moments “The clientele for your one on one business, won’t necessarily be the same clientele for your new launch.” - Carrie Flynn    “You could have come up with an awesome idea that your people don’t need. They want to buy a transformation” - Carrie Flynn   “The vehicle is your choice to decide how you want to put your idea out there.” - Carrie Flynn   “Like I always say, if you are going to do it, do it like a business.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Carrie Flynn Website  Instagram  Facebook   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: EPISODE 32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development EPISODE 540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development EPISODE 474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm EPISODE 731 Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh: How She Went From Blogger to Interior Designer EPISODE 476 Amanda Hamilton: Running a Mid-Size Firm & Creating Additional Revenue Streams EPISODE 687 Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work EPISODE 701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designer The Product Development Podcast Collection Fri, 15 Jul 2022 06:00:39 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Carrie Flynn: Launching an Online Product or Service With Simplicity full 791 LuAnn Nigara Today With Carrie Flynn: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today Carrie Flynn, owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC. is joining us to talk about all things, launching.  Listen, I’ve launched a lot of successful programs; Money, Mindset &... Today With Carrie Flynn: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today Carrie Flynn, owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC. is joining us to talk about all things, launching.  Listen, I’ve launched a lot of successful programs; Money, Mindset & Sales, the Power Talk Friday Tour…but I would be lying if I said I did it all by myself and knew exactly what I was doing in terms of the TECH side. Thank God for my team! We, as creatives, have the brains, expertise, and superpower, but launching can be overwhelming.  Carrie is a certified Master Marketer and Launch Manager and is here to prepare us for what to expect (including the roller coaster of emotions), do, and not to do when it comes to launching a new product or service. Enjoy! More About Carrie Flynn: Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family. Pick it apart: [1:50] Carrie explains what it means to be a certified master marketer and certified launch manager.  [10:30] Carrie gives some ideas you can take on your own to vet your launching idea to see if it will even work. [23:55] Carrie gets more in depth on how to prepare for the emotional side of a launch.  [37:40] Do you need to invest in ads and if so, what is a healthy budget? LuAnn and Carrie Flynn's Ah-Ha Moments “The clientele for your one on one business, won’t necessarily be the same clientele for your new launch.” - Carrie Flynn    “You could have come up with an awesome idea that your people don’t need. They want to buy a transformation” - Carrie Flynn   “The vehicle is your choice to decide how you want to put your idea out there.” - Carrie Flynn   “Like I always say, if you are going to do it, do it like a business.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Carrie Flynn Website  Instagram  Facebook   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: EPISODE 32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development EPISODE 540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development EPISODE 474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm EPISODE 731 Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh: How She Went From Blogger to Interior Designer EPISODE 476 Amanda Hamilton: Running a Mid-Size Firm & Creating Additional Revenue Streams EPISODE 687 Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work EPISODE 701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designer The Product Development Podcast Collection Today With Carrie Flynn:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today Carrie Flynn, owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC. is joining us to talk about all things, launching. 

Listen, I’ve launched a lot of successful programs; Money, Mindset & Sales, the Power Talk Friday Tour…but I would be lying if I said I did it all by myself and knew exactly what I was doing in terms of the TECH side. Thank God for my team! We, as creatives, have the brains, expertise, and superpower, but launching can be overwhelming. 

Carrie is a certified Master Marketer and Launch Manager and is here to prepare us for what to expect (including the roller coaster of emotions), do, and not to do when it comes to launching a new product or service. Enjoy!

More About Carrie Flynn:

Carrie Flynn is the owner of Virtual Simplicity, LLC., which specializes in helping our clients get their online programs created, designed, and ready to launch with simplicity and ease, so they can launch + maximize profits fast. We offer custom funnel design + tech setup in Kajabi, and full launch management strategy/support. Carrie loves yoga, her daily coffee, British TV shows and movies, and college football (Go Gators!). She's been married to her husband for 17 years, and together they have two daughters, ages 13 and 5. Carrie lives in the Mount Dora, FL area with her family.

Pick it apart:

[1:50] Carrie explains what it means to be a certified master marketer and certified launch manager. 

[10:30] Carrie gives some ideas you can take on your own to vet your launching idea to see if it will even work.

[23:55] Carrie gets more in depth on how to prepare for the emotional side of a launch. 

[37:40] Do you need to invest in ads and if so, what is a healthy budget?

LuAnn and Carrie Flynn's Ah-Ha Moments

“The clientele for your one on one business, won’t necessarily be the same clientele for your new launch.” - Carrie Flynn 

 

“You could have come up with an awesome idea that your people don’t need. They want to buy a transformation” - Carrie Flynn

 

“The vehicle is your choice to decide how you want to put your idea out there.” - Carrie Flynn

 

“Like I always say, if you are going to do it, do it like a business.” - LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Carrie Flynn

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

EPISODE 32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

EPISODE 540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

EPISODE 474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

EPISODE 731 Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh: How She Went From Blogger to Interior Designer

EPISODE 476 Amanda Hamilton: Running a Mid-Size Firm & Creating Additional Revenue Streams

EPISODE 687 Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work

EPISODE 701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designer

The Product Development Podcast Collection

]]> 3834 no 790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/790-rick-campos-design-biz-survival-guide-the-answer-to-all-your-business-questions Today With Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Whether we’ve had it for 6 months or 5 years, we still have questions when running our design business. The experience may not be the same, but the questions we ask ourselves are. It’s the circumstances that change.  Today with Rick Campos, who does freelance consulting exclusively for the interior design community, we tackle these questions that linger in our minds and all of the resources that are all around us that can answer them. More About Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry.   In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community.   In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels.   The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community.   “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.”   Pick it apart: [4:00] Rick introduces what we will be talking about today, that a creative business is still a business. [6:57] Rick addresses challenges that may arise from three to ten years down the road of owning your design business. [16:24] Rick tells us the types of questions designers ask each other when they connect. [33:40] Our conversation continues with great questions to ask your colleagues, including their background.  [38:27] Rick gives us details about his 3rd annual Design Biz Retreat.  [42:05] Rick talks about his expertise; selling luxury.   LuAnn and Rick Campos' Ah-Ha Moments “No matter how long we’re in our design business the questions we have are the same, it’s the circumstances that are different.” - Rick Campos   “It’s the conversations with other people in the business that answer your questions, not Google or Youtube.” - Rick Campos   “What I have said one billion times is that people buy people and process, not products.” - LuAnn Nigara   “If anyone is going to help guide you, it’s going to be a fellow designer because they’re already doing it.” - Rick Campos   “Getting together with other people who do what you do is one of the most enjoyable ways to push the envelope on your business.” - LuAnn Nigara   Connect with Rick Campos Website Instagram Facebook Podcast   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #06- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward #50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing for Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook  #180- PowerTalk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You #482- Cheryl Clennendon- Small Business, Think Big #485- Power Talk Friday: Claire Jeffers- Rock the Consult A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Tue, 12 Jul 2022 06:00:55 -0000 Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions full 790 LuAnn Nigara Today With Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Whether we’ve had it for 6 months or 5 years, we still have questions when running our design business. The experience may not be the same, but the questions we ask ourselves are. It’s... Today With Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Whether we’ve had it for 6 months or 5 years, we still have questions when running our design business. The experience may not be the same, but the questions we ask ourselves are. It’s the circumstances that change.  Today with Rick Campos, who does freelance consulting exclusively for the interior design community, we tackle these questions that linger in our minds and all of the resources that are all around us that can answer them. More About Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry.   In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community.   In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels.   The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community.   “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.”   Pick it apart: [4:00] Rick introduces what we will be talking about today, that a creative business is still a business. [6:57] Rick addresses challenges that may arise from three to ten years down the road of owning your design business. [16:24] Rick tells us the types of questions designers ask each other when they connect. [33:40] Our conversation continues with great questions to ask your colleagues, including their background.  [38:27] Rick gives us details about his 3rd annual Design Biz Retreat.  [42:05] Rick talks about his expertise; selling luxury.   LuAnn and Rick Campos' Ah-Ha Moments “No matter how long we’re in our design business the questions we have are the same, it’s the circumstances that are different.” - Rick Campos   “It’s the conversations with other people in the business that answer your questions, not Google or Youtube.” - Rick Campos   “What I have said one billion times is that people buy people and process, not products.” - LuAnn Nigara   “If anyone is going to help guide you, it’s going to be a fellow designer because they’re already doing it.” - Rick Campos   “Getting together with other people who do what you do is one of the most enjoyable ways to push the envelope on your business.” - LuAnn Nigara   Connect with Rick Campos Website Instagram Facebook Podcast   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #06- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward #50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing for Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook  #180- PowerTalk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You #482- Cheryl Clennendon- Small Business, Think Big #485- Power Talk Friday: Claire Jeffers- Rock the Consult A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  Today With Rick Campos:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Whether we’ve had it for 6 months or 5 years, we still have questions when running our design business. The experience may not be the same, but the questions we ask ourselves are. It’s the circumstances that change. 

Today with Rick Campos, who does freelance consulting exclusively for the interior design community, we tackle these questions that linger in our minds and all of the resources that are all around us that can answer them.

More About Rick Campos:

Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry.

 

In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community.

 

In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels.

 

The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community.

 

“My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.”

 

Pick it apart:

[4:00] Rick introduces what we will be talking about today, that a creative business is still a business.

[6:57] Rick addresses challenges that may arise from three to ten years down the road of owning your design business.

[16:24] Rick tells us the types of questions designers ask each other when they connect.

[33:40] Our conversation continues with great questions to ask your colleagues, including their background. 

[38:27] Rick gives us details about his 3rd annual Design Biz Retreat. 

[42:05] Rick talks about his expertise; selling luxury.

 

LuAnn and Rick Campos' Ah-Ha Moments

“No matter how long we’re in our design business the questions we have are the same, it’s the circumstances that are different.” - Rick Campos

 

“It’s the conversations with other people in the business that answer your questions, not Google or Youtube.” - Rick Campos

 

“What I have said one billion times is that people buy people and process, not products.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“If anyone is going to help guide you, it’s going to be a fellow designer because they’re already doing it.” - Rick Campos

 

“Getting together with other people who do what you do is one of the most enjoyable ways to push the envelope on your business.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

Connect with Rick Campos

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Podcast

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#06- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward

#50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing for Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook 

#180- PowerTalk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You

#482- Cheryl Clennendon- Small Business, Think Big

#485- Power Talk Friday: Claire Jeffers- Rock the Consult

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma studio, the project management tool for you to organize your communication with your team, your clients and your trades. Invoices, proposals, presentations, project milestones all in one place. See it for yourself- go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness 

]]> 3970 no 789: Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/789-flashback-friday-michelle-wiebe-breaking-into-new-construction-as-an-interior-designer Today With Michelle Wiebe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Wiebe's episode that originally aired as episode 148! On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today.  Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog. Pick it Apart: How many years has Studio M been in business? How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media? What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction? What is a CEU? How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project? What should the contract consist of? Can you really learn what you need to know from classes? How should make your client feel? Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm? Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm? What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process? What is High Point Market Authority? What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority? How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 08 Jul 2022 06:00:55 -0000 Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer full 789 LuAnn Nigara Today With Michelle Wiebe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Wiebe's episode that originally aired as episode 148! On... Today With Michelle Wiebe: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Wiebe's episode that originally aired as episode 148! On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today.  Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog. Pick it Apart: How many years has Studio M been in business? How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media? What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction? What is a CEU? How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project? What should the contract consist of? Can you really learn what you need to know from classes? How should make your client feel? Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm? Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm? What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process? What is High Point Market Authority? What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority? How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Michelle Wiebe:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Wiebe's episode that originally aired as episode 148!

On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today. 

Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog.

Pick it Apart:

  • How many years has Studio M been in business?
  • How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media?
  • What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction?
  • What is a CEU?
  • How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project?
  • What should the contract consist of?
  • Can you really learn what you need to know from classes?
  • How should make your client feel?
  • Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm?
  • Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm?
  • What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process?
  • What is High Point Market Authority?
  • What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority?
  • How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority?

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4249 no 788: What Would Lu Do?: One Game Changing Piece of Business Advice http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/788-what-would-lu-do-one-game-changing-piece-of-business-advice Today With LuAnn Nigara: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show. I am sharing my thoughts on the biggest piece of business advice I have to offer from my long career as a business owner. There are so many things you need to learn to run a well-designed business. If you’re a longtime listener than you can probably name many of them by now. But today, I am sharing my absolute greatest takeaway that you need to know. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! #467 Taylor Spellman: Hard Truths on Why You Need to Manage the 80% Business #398 Courtney McLeod: Defined Process = Success in Your Interior Design Business #781 Flash Back Friday: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! #683 Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design #412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #718 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #622 Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging Window Treatments for Profit Podcast Episode #25 Rick Baker: Preserving Your Values as You Grow Your Window Treatment Business Other Resources Mentioned: Finances Podcast Episodes Collection Hiring Podcast Episodes Collection Window Treatments for Profit Podcast Exciting Windows! LuAnn and Friends Facebook Group Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Facebook Group Veronica Soloman’s Facebook Group Claire Jefford's Facebook Group Cheryl Clendenon’s Facebook Group The Wingnut Social Media Lab Facbeook Group IDS Conference coming up this August 2022 Design Biz Survival Guide Retreat October 2022 The Power Talk Friday Tour this October at High Point Market Tue, 05 Jul 2022 06:00:17 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: One Game Changing Piece of Business Advice full 788 LuAnn Nigara Today With LuAnn Nigara: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show. I am sharing my thoughts on the biggest piece of business advice I have to offer from my long career as a business owner. There are so many things you need to learn... Today With LuAnn Nigara: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show. I am sharing my thoughts on the biggest piece of business advice I have to offer from my long career as a business owner. There are so many things you need to learn to run a well-designed business. If you’re a longtime listener than you can probably name many of them by now. But today, I am sharing my absolute greatest takeaway that you need to know. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! #467 Taylor Spellman: Hard Truths on Why You Need to Manage the 80% Business #398 Courtney McLeod: Defined Process = Success in Your Interior Design Business #781 Flash Back Friday: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! #683 Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design #412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design #718 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos #724 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #622 Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging Window Treatments for Profit Podcast Episode #25 Rick Baker: Preserving Your Values as You Grow Your Window Treatment Business Other Resources Mentioned: Finances Podcast Episodes Collection Hiring Podcast Episodes Collection Window Treatments for Profit Podcast Exciting Windows! LuAnn and Friends Facebook Group Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Facebook Group Veronica Soloman’s Facebook Group Claire Jefford's Facebook Group Cheryl Clendenon’s Facebook Group The Wingnut Social Media Lab Facbeook Group IDS Conference coming up this August 2022 Design Biz Survival Guide Retreat October 2022 The Power Talk Friday Tour this October at High Point Market Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a solo show. I am sharing my thoughts on the biggest piece of business advice I have to offer from my long career as a business owner.

There are so many things you need to learn to run a well-designed business. If you’re a longtime listener than you can probably name many of them by now. But today, I am sharing my absolute greatest takeaway that you need to know.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#575 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year!

#467 Taylor Spellman: Hard Truths on Why You Need to Manage the 80% Business

#398 Courtney McLeod: Defined Process = Success in Your Interior Design Business

#781 Flash Back Friday: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes!

#683 Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

#412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience

#663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business

#516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

#626 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

#718 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos

#724 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals

#125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

#317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

#622 Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

#669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging

Window Treatments for Profit Podcast Episode #25 Rick Baker: Preserving Your Values as You Grow Your Window Treatment Business

Other Resources Mentioned:

Finances Podcast Episodes Collection

Hiring Podcast Episodes Collection

Window Treatments for Profit Podcast

Exciting Windows!

LuAnn and Friends Facebook Group

Nancy Ganzekaufer’s Facebook Group

Veronica Soloman’s Facebook Group

Claire Jefford's Facebook Group

Cheryl Clendenon’s Facebook Group

The Wingnut Social Media Lab Facbeook Group

IDS Conference coming up this August 2022

Design Biz Survival Guide Retreat October 2022

The Power Talk Friday Tour this October at High Point Market

]]> 1245 no 787: Flashback Friday: Adam Urbanski: Dream Business Design Process – How to identify what you want most to sell to your most ideal client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/787-flashback-friday-adam-urbanski-dream-business-design-process-how-to-identify-what-you-want-most-to-sell-to-your-most-ideal-client Today With Adam Urbanski: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Adam Urbanski's episode that originally aired as episode 280! Today's guest  is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he’s a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn’s Designer friends to get that extra ‘something’ to tweak their businesses, so today, she’s decided to go with Adam’s Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now, is really the ‘go-to guy’ for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam’s clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she’s in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she’s very grateful that he’s on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist! Pick it apart: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you’d need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you’re really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you’d like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies. Connect with Adam Urbanski: Website  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 01 Jul 2022 06:00:50 -0000 Flashback Friday: Adam Urbanski: Dream Business Design Process – How to identify what you want most to sell to your most ideal client full 787 LuAnn Nigara Today With Adam Urbanski: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Adam Urbanski's episode that originally aired as episode 280! ... Today With Adam Urbanski: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Adam Urbanski's episode that originally aired as episode 280! Today's guest  is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he’s a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn’s Designer friends to get that extra ‘something’ to tweak their businesses, so today, she’s decided to go with Adam’s Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now, is really the ‘go-to guy’ for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam’s clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she’s in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she’s very grateful that he’s on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist! Pick it apart: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you’d need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you’re really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you’d like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies. Connect with Adam Urbanski: Website  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today With Adam Urbanski:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday epsiode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Adam Urbanski's episode that originally aired as episode 280!

Today's guest  is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he’s a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn’s Designer friends to get that extra ‘something’ to tweak their businesses, so today, she’s decided to go with Adam’s Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients.

Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now, is really the ‘go-to guy’ for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam’s clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she’s in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she’s very grateful that he’s on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!

Pick it apart:

  • Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach.

  • What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on.

  • How he discovered his ideal clients.

  • That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design!

  • That marketing is really all about listening.

  • Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them.

  • Finding your specific magic, as a Designer.

  • Thinking about your dream income, per client.

  • Identifying your dream project.

  • Identifying the characteristics of your dream client.

  • What you’d need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower)

  • Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project.

  • Expressing what you’re really good at to your client.

  • Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business.

  • Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients.

  • Asking yourself how much money you’d like to make from each project, per year.

  • Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

  • That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies.

Connect with Adam Urbanski:

Website 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4547 no 786: Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/786-meredith-huck-leaving-corporate-how-to-take-your-new-interior-design-career-to-new-heights Today With Meredith Huck: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with fellow Jersey girl Meredith Huck, Founder of House of Huck. Meredith and I were chatting on Instagram, and it ended up with one of those instances in which I saw value in her being a guest on the show.  Meredith has successfully achieved a net amount of six figures within her first ten months of business. She is here to give my audience three helpful tips for those who are twiddling their thumbs about starting their design business. Don’t worry, we get it. But I know that you will find value and information that will give you the confidence you are desiring to go for it! More About Meredith Huck: Founded in 2020, House of Huck creates timeless spaces focusing on functionality and beauty while keeping your lifestyle top of mind. We make the process streamlined and straightforward, taking decision fatigue off your plate and holding your hand every step of the way. Meredith and her husband live in Coastal Connecticut with their two young children. She is also a licensed real estate agent in the state of Connecticut and enjoys supporting her clients to turn average houses into spectacular homes. Pick it apart: [5:18] Meredith elaborates on her first lesson that you don’t need a creative background to succeed in a creative business. [20:17] Meredith starts to explain how you can make more money in your first year than you had in corporate if you are organized and disciplined. [35:17] Meredith shares her lessons of process and systems in her first year. [45:00] Meredith explains how you can be creative in the beginning if you don’t have the money to invest in the business.   LuAnn and Meredith Huck's Ah-Ha Moments: “Whatever you want to be, you don’t necessarily need to have had experience in that trade.” - Meredith Huck   “As a designer, you should be striving for as many trade resources as possible.” - LuAnn Nigara   “The wisdom and experience of your first year in business is like the memory of childbirth pain, it fades over time. It becomes hard to remember how hard the first couple of years can be.- LuAnn Nigara Connect with Meredith Huck: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward. #182- Christie Leu- Christie Leu Interiors: Creating Your Own Mini Designer Summit. #234- Kimberly Kay Interiors- A New Designer & Her 1st Five Months in Business.  #278- Erika Ward- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #297- Mikel Welch- Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man. #455- Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #463- Sara Lynn Brennan- Package Your Design Services For Profit and Clarity. #607- Sara Lynn Brennan- Project Management With Specific Deliverables and Deadlines. #677- Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #678- Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts With Processes. Tue, 28 Jun 2022 06:00:07 -0000 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed full 786 LuAnn Nigara Today With Meredith Huck: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with fellow Jersey girl Meredith Huck, Founder of House of Huck. Meredith and I were chatting on Instagram, and it ended up with one of those instances in which I saw... Today With Meredith Huck: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with fellow Jersey girl Meredith Huck, Founder of House of Huck. Meredith and I were chatting on Instagram, and it ended up with one of those instances in which I saw value in her being a guest on the show.  Meredith has successfully achieved a net amount of six figures within her first ten months of business. She is here to give my audience three helpful tips for those who are twiddling their thumbs about starting their design business. Don’t worry, we get it. But I know that you will find value and information that will give you the confidence you are desiring to go for it! More About Meredith Huck: Founded in 2020, House of Huck creates timeless spaces focusing on functionality and beauty while keeping your lifestyle top of mind. We make the process streamlined and straightforward, taking decision fatigue off your plate and holding your hand every step of the way. Meredith and her husband live in Coastal Connecticut with their two young children. She is also a licensed real estate agent in the state of Connecticut and enjoys supporting her clients to turn average houses into spectacular homes. Pick it apart: [5:18] Meredith elaborates on her first lesson that you don’t need a creative background to succeed in a creative business. [20:17] Meredith starts to explain how you can make more money in your first year than you had in corporate if you are organized and disciplined. [35:17] Meredith shares her lessons of process and systems in her first year. [45:00] Meredith explains how you can be creative in the beginning if you don’t have the money to invest in the business.   LuAnn and Meredith Huck's Ah-Ha Moments: “Whatever you want to be, you don’t necessarily need to have had experience in that trade.” - Meredith Huck   “As a designer, you should be striving for as many trade resources as possible.” - LuAnn Nigara   “The wisdom and experience of your first year in business is like the memory of childbirth pain, it fades over time. It becomes hard to remember how hard the first couple of years can be.- LuAnn Nigara Connect with Meredith Huck: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward. #182- Christie Leu- Christie Leu Interiors: Creating Your Own Mini Designer Summit. #234- Kimberly Kay Interiors- A New Designer & Her 1st Five Months in Business.  #278- Erika Ward- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #297- Mikel Welch- Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man. #455- Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #463- Sara Lynn Brennan- Package Your Design Services For Profit and Clarity. #607- Sara Lynn Brennan- Project Management With Specific Deliverables and Deadlines. #677- Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #678- Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts With Processes. Today With Meredith Huck:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with fellow Jersey girl Meredith Huck, Founder of House of Huck. Meredith and I were chatting on Instagram, and it ended up with one of those instances in which I saw value in her being a guest on the show. 

Meredith has successfully achieved a net amount of six figures within her first ten months of business. She is here to give my audience three helpful tips for those who are twiddling their thumbs about starting their design business. Don’t worry, we get it. But I know that you will find value and information that will give you the confidence you are desiring to go for it!

More About Meredith Huck:

Founded in 2020, House of Huck creates timeless spaces focusing on functionality and beauty while keeping your lifestyle top of mind. We make the process streamlined and straightforward, taking decision fatigue off your plate and holding your hand every step of the way.

Meredith and her husband live in Coastal Connecticut with their two young children. She is also a licensed real estate agent in the state of Connecticut and enjoys supporting her clients to turn average houses into spectacular homes.

Pick it apart:

[5:18] Meredith elaborates on her first lesson that you don’t need a creative background to succeed in a creative business.

[20:17] Meredith starts to explain how you can make more money in your first year than you had in corporate if you are organized and disciplined.

[35:17] Meredith shares her lessons of process and systems in her first year.

[45:00] Meredith explains how you can be creative in the beginning if you don’t have the money to invest in the business.  

LuAnn and Meredith Huck's Ah-Ha Moments:

“Whatever you want to be, you don’t necessarily need to have had experience in that trade.” - Meredith Huck

 

“As a designer, you should be striving for as many trade resources as possible.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“The wisdom and experience of your first year in business is like the memory of childbirth pain, it fades over time. It becomes hard to remember how hard the first couple of years can be.- LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Meredith Huck:

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward.

#182- Christie Leu- Christie Leu Interiors: Creating Your Own Mini Designer Summit.

#234- Kimberly Kay Interiors- A New Designer & Her 1st Five Months in Business. 

#278- Erika Ward- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.

#297- Mikel Welch- Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man.

#455- Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

#463- Sara Lynn Brennan- Package Your Design Services For Profit and Clarity.

#607- Sara Lynn Brennan- Project Management With Specific Deliverables and Deadlines.

#677- Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

#678- Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts With Processes.

]]> 4455 no 785: What Would Lu Do?: How to Uplevel to New Types of Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/785-what-would-lu-do-how-to-uplevel-to-new-types-of-interior-design Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today we are going to talk about unleveling to new, different, bigger, and better projects. These are the projects that you want to do but currently are not doing because you don't have the experience yet. Let's talk about it! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour Fall 2022 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Fri, 24 Jun 2022 06:00:11 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: How to Uplevel to New Types of Interior Design full 785 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today we are going to talk about unleveling to new, different, bigger, and better projects. These are the projects that you want to do but currently are not doing because you... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today we are going to talk about unleveling to new, different, bigger, and better projects. These are the projects that you want to do but currently are not doing because you don't have the experience yet. Let's talk about it! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour Fall 2022 luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today we are going to talk about unleveling to new, different, bigger, and better projects. These are the projects that you want to do but currently are not doing because you don't have the experience yet. Let's talk about it!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour Fall 2022

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 1299 no 784: Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path—From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/784-kelly-fridline-an-alternative-pathfrom-architecture-to-coaching-in-interior-design Today with Kelly Fridline: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For many of you, running a successful and profitable interior design firm is the ultimate goal. But sometimes, the goal might look different. Perhaps you’ve thought about coaching, course creation, or another avenue besides a traditional firm. There are many career paths in the industry, and all of them require adjusting, evaluation, learning, and making mistakes. Today, Kelly Fridline joins me to discuss what it looks like to take a unique career path and what she has learned as she has carved out her businesses. Pick it apart: [2:34] Kelly discusses her background in architecture and the path she took to interior design.  [17:15] Kelly shares why she has chosen to not become licensed as an architect.  [34:08] Kelly highlights why she started Virtual Design Mentor as a networking and growth opportunity for designers.  [47:10] Kelly shares why her business involves other coaches and the strengths everyone brings to the table.  [53:20] Kelly talks about Liase for Interior Design and how designers can use it to find virtual assistance for their businesses. LuAnn and Kelly Fridline’s Ah-Ha moments: “Humility is key, but so is being really proud of what your gifts are.” -Kelly Fridline “No matter how many podcasts you listen to or how great your business coach is, there is still that learning experience where you’re going to make some really stupid decisions, and you’re going to learn from them.” -Kelly Fridline “It’s such a personal thing. I have to believe with the body of experience and education you have, if it really mattered to you, you’d sit and pass the darn test. But it doesn’t. And until it really matters to you, so what?” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kelly Fridline:   Kelly Fridline is an entrepreneur at heart, but a designer through and through. Since establishing Kelly Fridline Design, LLC in 2017, she’s learned the importance of flexibility in not only design, but business planning and goals. In the almost five years she’s been in business her focus has changed from primarily interior design, to Virtual Design Assistance and Renderings, totraining fellow creatives in the art of professionally presenting and documenting their projects, and finally assisting and mentoring fellow virtual assistants in business and attracting clients. With a Master of Architecture from Savannah College of Art and Design and almost a decade of professional design, construction, and virtual collaboration experience, Kelly brings a unique insight to the interior design industry. Using these experiences, this past year Kelly founded The Virtual Design Mentor and Liaise for Interior Design. In addition to her own business, Kelly resides in the Metro-Detroit area with her husband, son, and two dogs. Connect with Kelly Fridline Website  Instagram  Facebook   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #779 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? #440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program #419 Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy A big thank you to today's sponsor Kravet’s commitment to innovation and ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their website makes finding quality home furnishings easy for you. And, the advanced color search allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order. Tue, 21 Jun 2022 06:00:55 -0000 Kelly Fridline: An Alternative Path—From Architecture to Coaching in Interior Design full 784 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kelly Fridline: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For many of you, running a successful and profitable interior design firm is the ultimate goal. But sometimes, the goal might look different. Perhaps you’ve thought about coaching,... Today with Kelly Fridline: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For many of you, running a successful and profitable interior design firm is the ultimate goal. But sometimes, the goal might look different. Perhaps you’ve thought about coaching, course creation, or another avenue besides a traditional firm. There are many career paths in the industry, and all of them require adjusting, evaluation, learning, and making mistakes. Today, Kelly Fridline joins me to discuss what it looks like to take a unique career path and what she has learned as she has carved out her businesses. Pick it apart: [2:34] Kelly discusses her background in architecture and the path she took to interior design.  [17:15] Kelly shares why she has chosen to not become licensed as an architect.  [34:08] Kelly highlights why she started Virtual Design Mentor as a networking and growth opportunity for designers.  [47:10] Kelly shares why her business involves other coaches and the strengths everyone brings to the table.  [53:20] Kelly talks about Liase for Interior Design and how designers can use it to find virtual assistance for their businesses. LuAnn and Kelly Fridline’s Ah-Ha moments: “Humility is key, but so is being really proud of what your gifts are.” -Kelly Fridline “No matter how many podcasts you listen to or how great your business coach is, there is still that learning experience where you’re going to make some really stupid decisions, and you’re going to learn from them.” -Kelly Fridline “It’s such a personal thing. I have to believe with the body of experience and education you have, if it really mattered to you, you’d sit and pass the darn test. But it doesn’t. And until it really matters to you, so what?” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kelly Fridline:   Kelly Fridline is an entrepreneur at heart, but a designer through and through. Since establishing Kelly Fridline Design, LLC in 2017, she’s learned the importance of flexibility in not only design, but business planning and goals. In the almost five years she’s been in business her focus has changed from primarily interior design, to Virtual Design Assistance and Renderings, totraining fellow creatives in the art of professionally presenting and documenting their projects, and finally assisting and mentoring fellow virtual assistants in business and attracting clients. With a Master of Architecture from Savannah College of Art and Design and almost a decade of professional design, construction, and virtual collaboration experience, Kelly brings a unique insight to the interior design industry. Using these experiences, this past year Kelly founded The Virtual Design Mentor and Liaise for Interior Design. In addition to her own business, Kelly resides in the Metro-Detroit area with her husband, son, and two dogs. Connect with Kelly Fridline Website  Instagram  Facebook   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #779 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? #440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program #419 Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy A big thank you to today's sponsor Kravet’s commitment to innovation and ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their website makes finding quality home furnishings easy for you. And, the advanced color search allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order. Today with Kelly Fridline:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For many of you, running a successful and profitable interior design firm is the ultimate goal. But sometimes, the goal might look different. Perhaps you’ve thought about coaching, course creation, or another avenue besides a traditional firm. There are many career paths in the industry, and all of them require adjusting, evaluation, learning, and making mistakes. Today, Kelly Fridline joins me to discuss what it looks like to take a unique career path and what she has learned as she has carved out her businesses.

Pick it apart:

  • [2:34] Kelly discusses her background in architecture and the path she took to interior design. 
  • [17:15] Kelly shares why she has chosen to not become licensed as an architect. 
  • [34:08] Kelly highlights why she started Virtual Design Mentor as a networking and growth opportunity for designers. 
  • [47:10] Kelly shares why her business involves other coaches and the strengths everyone brings to the table. 
  • [53:20] Kelly talks about Liase for Interior Design and how designers can use it to find virtual assistance for their businesses.

LuAnn and Kelly Fridline’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Humility is key, but so is being really proud of what your gifts are.” -Kelly Fridline

“No matter how many podcasts you listen to or how great your business coach is, there is still that learning experience where you’re going to make some really stupid decisions, and you’re going to learn from them.” -Kelly Fridline

“It’s such a personal thing. I have to believe with the body of experience and education you have, if it really mattered to you, you’d sit and pass the darn test. But it doesn’t. And until it really matters to you, so what?” -LuAnn Nigara

More about Kelly Fridline:

 

Kelly Fridline is an entrepreneur at heart, but a designer through and through. Since establishing Kelly Fridline Design, LLC in 2017, she’s learned the importance of flexibility in not only design, but business planning and goals. In the almost five years she’s been in business her focus has changed from primarily interior design, to Virtual Design Assistance and Renderings, totraining fellow creatives in the art of professionally presenting and documenting their projects, and finally assisting and mentoring fellow virtual assistants in business and attracting clients.

With a Master of Architecture from Savannah College of Art and Design and almost a decade of professional design, construction, and virtual collaboration experience, Kelly brings a unique insight to the interior design industry.

Using these experiences, this past year Kelly founded The Virtual Design Mentor and Liaise for Interior Design.

In addition to her own business, Kelly resides in the Metro-Detroit area with her husband, son, and two dogs.

Connect with Kelly Fridline

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

#256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

#159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#779 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing?

#440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program

#419 Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy

A big thank you to today's sponsor

Kravet’s commitment to innovation and ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their website makes finding quality home furnishings easy for you. And, the advanced color search allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order.

]]> 4379 no 783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/783-power-talk-friday-nancy-ganzekaufer-profit-insiders-for-interior-designers Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and this show is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. She is back to talk about the importance of analyzing your profitability. More specifically, Nancy is here to discuss the importance of knowing your numbers for the jobs that are already completed. The whole point of our business right? Tune in to learn if how your pricing your projects is benefitting or hidduring your business, and how Nancy can help. More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a focused, motivated, and dedicated Interior Designer Business Coach. Through her work, Nancy empowers creative entrepreneurs to build the life and business they have always wanted and deserve. As a mom of three young adults and a successful business owner, Nancy understands the unique challenges entrepreneurs face when pursuing their dreams of growing a profitable business. She leads by example through her hard work, encouragement, and most of all, her no-BS leadership style. In addition to Business Coaching, Nancy is a National Board member of the Interior Design Society (IDS) and the Current and Founding President of the IDS Virtual Chapter. Pick it apart: [8:12] Nancy starts to tell us what she teaches the designers that she works with about pricing for profitability. [13:19] Nancy walks us through how she helps an interior designer look at their projects for profitability.  [23:40] Nancy talks more about her Profitability Analyzer. [35:05] Nancy tells us about her Profit Insiders For Interior Designers year-long program. LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaufer Ah-Ha Moments: “Using the Profitability Analyzer will help you see where you may still have a weak spot or service model that you are currently selling over and over again thinking that it’s great, but isn’t actually viable for you to make the money you need to make.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “The only way we actually know that we are consistently pricing for profitability is if we are consistently reviewing the projects.” - LuAnn Nigara “Once you start running your business by numbers, you’re going to run the business like a CEO, not just by emotion.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “As you grow your company you have to consistently keep learning.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer: Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Interior Design Business Forum Facebook Group Business Building Boutique Confident Interior Designer Membership Site  YouTube Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick- Strategies I Used to Build My Business #159: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- How to Get Confident and Clear On What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- The Interior Design Profit Formula #584: Lesley Myrick- Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick- Offering Interior Design Without Procurement A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today;s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Fri, 17 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers full 783 LuAnn Nigara Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and this show is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. She is back to talk about the importance of... Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and this show is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. She is back to talk about the importance of analyzing your profitability. More specifically, Nancy is here to discuss the importance of knowing your numbers for the jobs that are already completed. The whole point of our business right? Tune in to learn if how your pricing your projects is benefitting or hidduring your business, and how Nancy can help. More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a focused, motivated, and dedicated Interior Designer Business Coach. Through her work, Nancy empowers creative entrepreneurs to build the life and business they have always wanted and deserve. As a mom of three young adults and a successful business owner, Nancy understands the unique challenges entrepreneurs face when pursuing their dreams of growing a profitable business. She leads by example through her hard work, encouragement, and most of all, her no-BS leadership style. In addition to Business Coaching, Nancy is a National Board member of the Interior Design Society (IDS) and the Current and Founding President of the IDS Virtual Chapter. Pick it apart: [8:12] Nancy starts to tell us what she teaches the designers that she works with about pricing for profitability. [13:19] Nancy walks us through how she helps an interior designer look at their projects for profitability.  [23:40] Nancy talks more about her Profitability Analyzer. [35:05] Nancy tells us about her Profit Insiders For Interior Designers year-long program. LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaufer Ah-Ha Moments: “Using the Profitability Analyzer will help you see where you may still have a weak spot or service model that you are currently selling over and over again thinking that it’s great, but isn’t actually viable for you to make the money you need to make.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “The only way we actually know that we are consistently pricing for profitability is if we are consistently reviewing the projects.” - LuAnn Nigara “Once you start running your business by numbers, you’re going to run the business like a CEO, not just by emotion.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “As you grow your company you have to consistently keep learning.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer: Website Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Interior Design Business Forum Facebook Group Business Building Boutique Confident Interior Designer Membership Site  YouTube Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Other Shows Mentioned: #15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #37: Lesley Myrick- Strategies I Used to Build My Business #159: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- How to Get Confident and Clear On What You Offer #256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- The Interior Design Profit Formula #584: Lesley Myrick- Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #766: Lesley Myrick- Offering Interior Design Without Procurement A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Today;s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and this show is sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers. She is back to talk about the importance of analyzing your profitability. More specifically, Nancy is here to discuss the importance of knowing your numbers for the jobs that are already completed. The whole point of our business right? Tune in to learn if how your pricing your projects is benefitting or hidduring your business, and how Nancy can help.

More About Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Nancy Ganzekaufer is a focused, motivated, and dedicated Interior Designer Business Coach. Through her work, Nancy empowers creative entrepreneurs to build the life and business they have always wanted and deserve. As a mom of three young adults and a successful business owner, Nancy understands the unique challenges entrepreneurs face when pursuing their dreams of growing a profitable business. She leads by example through her hard work, encouragement, and most of all, her no-BS leadership style. In addition to Business Coaching, Nancy is a National Board member of the Interior Design Society (IDS) and the Current and Founding President of the IDS Virtual Chapter.

Pick it apart:

[8:12] Nancy starts to tell us what she teaches the designers that she works with about pricing for profitability.

[13:19] Nancy walks us through how she helps an interior designer look at their projects for profitability. 

[23:40] Nancy talks more about her Profitability Analyzer.

[35:05] Nancy tells us about her Profit Insiders For Interior Designers year-long program.

LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaufer Ah-Ha Moments:

“Using the Profitability Analyzer will help you see where you may still have a weak spot or service model that you are currently selling over and over again thinking that it’s great, but isn’t actually viable for you to make the money you need to make.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

“The only way we actually know that we are consistently pricing for profitability is if we are consistently reviewing the projects.” - LuAnn Nigara

“Once you start running your business by numbers, you’re going to run the business like a CEO, not just by emotion.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer

“As you grow your company you have to consistently keep learning.” - LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Nancy Ganzekaufer:

Website

Profit Insiders for Interior Designers

Interior Design Business Forum Facebook Group

Business Building Boutique

Confident Interior Designer Membership Site

 YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Other Shows Mentioned:

#15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

#37: Lesley Myrick- Strategies I Used to Build My Business

#159: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- How to Get Confident and Clear On What You Offer

#256: Nancy Ganzekaufer: A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

#389: Power Talk Friday- Nancy Ganzekaufer- The Interior Design Profit Formula

#584: Lesley Myrick- Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

#766: Lesley Myrick- Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Today;s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her newest program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers.

]]> 3993 no 782: Pamela Durkin: Utilize Time Blocking to Increase Productivity in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/782-pamela-durkin-utilize-time-blocking-to-increase-productivity-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Pamela Durkin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today with Pamela Durkin, author of Elevate and owner of Pamela Durkin Designs, we are discussing how to time block our tasks. Pamela is coughing up some great strategies on how we can set specific blocks of time for specific tasks that will help us, get this, “Get more done in one day then you used to get done in an entire week.” Pick it apart: [2:00] Pamela talks to us about time blocking to increase productivity.  [8:30] Pamela takes us to the next level of getting a weeks’ worth of things done in a day.  [11:15] Pamela explains a strategy for completing the potential tasks we get from when we check all of our emails. [26:00] Pamela and LuAnn discuss the importance of communicating to your clients your time expectancy.  LuAnn and Pamela Durkin’s Ah-Ha moments: “We need concentrated time to accomplish anything. We need to be aware of the fact that bouncing around to different tasks can hurt our productivity. ” - Pamela Durkin   “If we can think about where we are spending our time and how that relates to money in our business, then you ask yourself if you should even be doing those things.” - Pamela Durkin   “Time blocking is more than being efficient, it’s understanding that we have finite hours in the day and if we’re not making enough money by putting these blocks of time in, then maybe we are not charging enough.” - Pamela Durkin   “We are imperfectly perfect and always a work in progress. We should always give ourselves a pat on the back for our progress. As long as we are trying and moving forward, it’s all good.” - Pamela Durkin More about Pamela Durkin: Pamela Durkin, ASID, LEED AP ID+C Design is powerful and Pamela wants designers to step into that power. After 30 years in the high-end design business, she is now helping other designers create a business they love through her In Demand Designer Program. She teaches them how to be magnetic and attract the best clients. This method makes owning a design business easier and more fulfilling. Her book, Elevate! can be found on Amazon.  Pamela Durkin has been a professional interior designer for over 30 years. She is a past-president of ASID Florida South Chapter and served on the Board of Architecture and Design in NJ. She lives in Naples, FL and in her spare time, loves spending time on the beach and learning new moves in her home dance studio.  Connect with Pamela Durkin Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat. #607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines. Tue, 14 Jun 2022 06:00:18 -0000 Pamela Durkin: Utilize Time Blocking to Increase Productivity in Your Interior Design Business full 782 LuAnn Nigara Today with Pamela Durkin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today with Pamela Durkin, author of Elevate and owner of Pamela Durkin Designs, we are discussing how to time block our tasks. Pamela is coughing up some great strategies on how we can set... Today with Pamela Durkin: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today with Pamela Durkin, author of Elevate and owner of Pamela Durkin Designs, we are discussing how to time block our tasks. Pamela is coughing up some great strategies on how we can set specific blocks of time for specific tasks that will help us, get this, “Get more done in one day then you used to get done in an entire week.” Pick it apart: [2:00] Pamela talks to us about time blocking to increase productivity.  [8:30] Pamela takes us to the next level of getting a weeks’ worth of things done in a day.  [11:15] Pamela explains a strategy for completing the potential tasks we get from when we check all of our emails. [26:00] Pamela and LuAnn discuss the importance of communicating to your clients your time expectancy.  LuAnn and Pamela Durkin’s Ah-Ha moments: “We need concentrated time to accomplish anything. We need to be aware of the fact that bouncing around to different tasks can hurt our productivity. ” - Pamela Durkin   “If we can think about where we are spending our time and how that relates to money in our business, then you ask yourself if you should even be doing those things.” - Pamela Durkin   “Time blocking is more than being efficient, it’s understanding that we have finite hours in the day and if we’re not making enough money by putting these blocks of time in, then maybe we are not charging enough.” - Pamela Durkin   “We are imperfectly perfect and always a work in progress. We should always give ourselves a pat on the back for our progress. As long as we are trying and moving forward, it’s all good.” - Pamela Durkin More about Pamela Durkin: Pamela Durkin, ASID, LEED AP ID+C Design is powerful and Pamela wants designers to step into that power. After 30 years in the high-end design business, she is now helping other designers create a business they love through her In Demand Designer Program. She teaches them how to be magnetic and attract the best clients. This method makes owning a design business easier and more fulfilling. Her book, Elevate! can be found on Amazon.  Pamela Durkin has been a professional interior designer for over 30 years. She is a past-president of ASID Florida South Chapter and served on the Board of Architecture and Design in NJ. She lives in Naples, FL and in her spare time, loves spending time on the beach and learning new moves in her home dance studio.  Connect with Pamela Durkin Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat. #607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines. Today with Pamela Durkin:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today with Pamela Durkin, author of Elevate and owner of Pamela Durkin Designs, we are discussing how to time block our tasks. Pamela is coughing up some great strategies on how we can set specific blocks of time for specific tasks that will help us, get this, “Get more done in one day then you used to get done in an entire week.”

Pick it apart:

[2:00] Pamela talks to us about time blocking to increase productivity. 

[8:30] Pamela takes us to the next level of getting a weeks’ worth of things done in a day. 

[11:15] Pamela explains a strategy for completing the potential tasks we get from when we check all of our emails.

[26:00] Pamela and LuAnn discuss the importance of communicating to your clients your time expectancy. 

LuAnn and Pamela Durkin’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We need concentrated time to accomplish anything. We need to be aware of the fact that bouncing around to different tasks can hurt our productivity. ” - Pamela Durkin

 

“If we can think about where we are spending our time and how that relates to money in our business, then you ask yourself if you should even be doing those things.” - Pamela Durkin

 

“Time blocking is more than being efficient, it’s understanding that we have finite hours in the day and if we’re not making enough money by putting these blocks of time in, then maybe we are not charging enough.” - Pamela Durkin

 

“We are imperfectly perfect and always a work in progress. We should always give ourselves a pat on the back for our progress. As long as we are trying and moving forward, it’s all good.” - Pamela Durkin

More about Pamela Durkin:

Pamela Durkin, ASID, LEED AP ID+C

Design is powerful and Pamela wants designers to step into that power. After 30 years in the high-end design business, she is now helping other designers create a business they love through her In Demand Designer Program. She teaches them how to be magnetic and attract the best clients. This method makes owning a design business easier and more fulfilling. Her book, Elevate! can be found on Amazon. 

Pamela Durkin has been a professional interior designer for over 30 years. She is a past-president of ASID Florida South Chapter and served on the Board of Architecture and Design in NJ. She lives in Naples, FL and in her spare time, loves spending time on the beach and learning new moves in her home dance studio. 

Connect with Pamela Durkin

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn 

Book

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#577- Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat.

#607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines.

]]> 3460 no 781: Flash Back Friday: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/781-flash-back-friday-lori-morris-when-working-with-the-luxury-client-the-answer-is-yes Today with Lori Morris Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect.  Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals.  Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style. Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs. Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects.  Show Highlights: Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service. Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents. “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves. Every house is treated like an original painting. The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform. Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice. Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights. The importance of a mutually respectful relationship. Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do. It is key to manage your client’s expectations. There’s always a solution to a problem! Connect with Lori! Lori’s Website Lori’s Instagram Lori’s Twitter Lori’s Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 10 Jun 2022 06:00:52 -0000 Flash Back Friday: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! full 781 LuAnn Nigara Today with Lori Morris Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury... Today with Lori Morris Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect.  Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals.  Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style. Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs. Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects.  Show Highlights: Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service. Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents. “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves. Every house is treated like an original painting. The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform. Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice. Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights. The importance of a mutually respectful relationship. Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do. It is key to manage your client’s expectations. There’s always a solution to a problem! Connect with Lori! Lori’s Website Lori’s Instagram Lori’s Twitter Lori’s Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect. 

Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals. 

Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style.

Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs.

Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects. 

Show Highlights:

  • Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service.
  • Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents.
  • “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves.
  • Every house is treated like an original painting.
  • The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform.
  • Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice.
  • Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights.
  • The importance of a mutually respectful relationship.
  • Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do.
  • It is key to manage your client’s expectations.
  • There’s always a solution to a problem!

Connect with Lori!

Lori’s Website

Lori’s Instagram

Lori’s Twitter

Lori’s Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3557 no 780: Rydhima Brar: Bringing Your Roots and Your Story Into Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/780-rydhima-brar-bringing-your-roots-and-your-story-into-interior-design Today with Rydhima Brar: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Rydhima Brar of R/terior Studio shares her story and her journey to design with us. From her childhood in Kuwait, to her corporate career in LA, to launching her own firm at the beginning of the pandemic, to amazing growth and press attention—Rydhima shares how her story, and how storytelling in general, laid the foundation for her design career. Pick it apart: [5:00] Rydhima shares her journey and discusses her connection to construction and design during childhood in Kuwait.  [16:08] Rydhima discusses how a difficult personal experience launched the rebirth of her career and pushed her into her passion—design.  [32:05] Rydhima and LuAnn discuss the Kaleidoscope Project and Rydhima’s experience with it.  [46:26] Rydhima reflects on her path and what she has learned. LuAnn and Rydhima Brar’s Ah-Ha moments: “My world just turned upside down. It was a scary thing—my journey was terrifying. But during that time when I was home, a rebirth happened. I gave birth to my daughter and I gave birth to my business. That’s when I decide to really pursue my passion and remove myself from a place of fear and anxiety and into a sense of calm. Design became a place of refuge for me.” -Rydhima Brar   “That is the key. When you are determined, then you make things happen. It’s not a passive thing—starting a business. It’s not just an idea you put on paper that unfolds in front of you. It’s waking up everyday, recommitting to taking action, to being determined, to being undeterred, to believing in yourself and knowing that you’re worth it, that you’re worth doing this career.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Rydhima Brar: Rydhima Brar grew up in Kuwait, where her childhood was filled with breathtaking design & architecture, helping out with her father’s construction business. In 1990, the effects of the Gulf War drew Rydhima and her family to leave their home in the cover of night for another country. Returning to Kuwait after the war, I experienced the rebuilding of our home, and the rebirth of a nation. As her father then rebuilt his business, she helped him organize his building materials and sample libraries, always complaining but secretly loving every minute of it. As a young adult, she then took to New York City to begin a career in Business and Finance, yet her love for design never left her. After several years, it was a move to L.A. that sparked the next evolution for her career, now shifting toward design, a transition that was gradual yet inevitable. Starting with her own condo, she rediscovered her love for an approachable + functional + luxe aesthetic, using bold color and unique pieces throughout. Friends were impressed with the result and Rydhima then began to help design their spaces. A few projects later, she found herself fully immersed in the world of professional design, where she felt she belonged. She then balanced going back to school while working on projects, and the pages of the new chapter were lled with new experiences and challenges, which eventually led to the most recent chapter, the birth of her own business, R/terior Studio. FUN FACT Rydhima has a blog dedicated to discovering what your favorite cocktail says about your interior design style! Rydhima believes that craft cocktails, much like interiors, need to be carefully crafted with attention to every detail to become a masterpiece—Each ingredient, or design element, has a purpose, and when paired well with other ingredients, the result is sophisticated, balanced, and bold. Check-out the blog HERE. Connect with Rydhima Brar Kaleidoscope Project   Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #771 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street. To Succeed, Identify a Gap in the Marketplace #743 Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something #397 Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years #562 Rasheeda Gray: #BLM 2020 The Year of Vision #23 Rio Hamilton – Media Expert and Author of the Wildly Popular Industry Blog, Mon Oncle #614 Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count #669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging #677 Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm Tue, 07 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Rydhima Brar: Bringing Your Roots and Your Story Into Interior Design full 780 LuAnn Nigara Today with Rydhima Brar: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Rydhima Brar of R/terior Studio shares her story and her journey to design with us. From her childhood in Kuwait, to her corporate career in LA, to launching her own firm at the... Today with Rydhima Brar: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Rydhima Brar of R/terior Studio shares her story and her journey to design with us. From her childhood in Kuwait, to her corporate career in LA, to launching her own firm at the beginning of the pandemic, to amazing growth and press attention—Rydhima shares how her story, and how storytelling in general, laid the foundation for her design career. Pick it apart: [5:00] Rydhima shares her journey and discusses her connection to construction and design during childhood in Kuwait.  [16:08] Rydhima discusses how a difficult personal experience launched the rebirth of her career and pushed her into her passion—design.  [32:05] Rydhima and LuAnn discuss the Kaleidoscope Project and Rydhima’s experience with it.  [46:26] Rydhima reflects on her path and what she has learned. LuAnn and Rydhima Brar’s Ah-Ha moments: “My world just turned upside down. It was a scary thing—my journey was terrifying. But during that time when I was home, a rebirth happened. I gave birth to my daughter and I gave birth to my business. That’s when I decide to really pursue my passion and remove myself from a place of fear and anxiety and into a sense of calm. Design became a place of refuge for me.” -Rydhima Brar   “That is the key. When you are determined, then you make things happen. It’s not a passive thing—starting a business. It’s not just an idea you put on paper that unfolds in front of you. It’s waking up everyday, recommitting to taking action, to being determined, to being undeterred, to believing in yourself and knowing that you’re worth it, that you’re worth doing this career.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Rydhima Brar: Rydhima Brar grew up in Kuwait, where her childhood was filled with breathtaking design & architecture, helping out with her father’s construction business. In 1990, the effects of the Gulf War drew Rydhima and her family to leave their home in the cover of night for another country. Returning to Kuwait after the war, I experienced the rebuilding of our home, and the rebirth of a nation. As her father then rebuilt his business, she helped him organize his building materials and sample libraries, always complaining but secretly loving every minute of it. As a young adult, she then took to New York City to begin a career in Business and Finance, yet her love for design never left her. After several years, it was a move to L.A. that sparked the next evolution for her career, now shifting toward design, a transition that was gradual yet inevitable. Starting with her own condo, she rediscovered her love for an approachable + functional + luxe aesthetic, using bold color and unique pieces throughout. Friends were impressed with the result and Rydhima then began to help design their spaces. A few projects later, she found herself fully immersed in the world of professional design, where she felt she belonged. She then balanced going back to school while working on projects, and the pages of the new chapter were lled with new experiences and challenges, which eventually led to the most recent chapter, the birth of her own business, R/terior Studio. FUN FACT Rydhima has a blog dedicated to discovering what your favorite cocktail says about your interior design style! Rydhima believes that craft cocktails, much like interiors, need to be carefully crafted with attention to every detail to become a masterpiece—Each ingredient, or design element, has a purpose, and when paired well with other ingredients, the result is sophisticated, balanced, and bold. Check-out the blog HERE. Connect with Rydhima Brar Kaleidoscope Project   Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest LinkedIn Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life #771 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street. To Succeed, Identify a Gap in the Marketplace #743 Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something #397 Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years #562 Rasheeda Gray: #BLM 2020 The Year of Vision #23 Rio Hamilton – Media Expert and Author of the Wildly Popular Industry Blog, Mon Oncle #614 Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count #669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging #677 Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why #455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business #601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm Today with Rydhima Brar:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, Rydhima Brar of R/terior Studio shares her story and her journey to design with us. From her childhood in Kuwait, to her corporate career in LA, to launching her own firm at the beginning of the pandemic, to amazing growth and press attention—Rydhima shares how her story, and how storytelling in general, laid the foundation for her design career.

Pick it apart:

  • [5:00] Rydhima shares her journey and discusses her connection to construction and design during childhood in Kuwait. 
  • [16:08] Rydhima discusses how a difficult personal experience launched the rebirth of her career and pushed her into her passion—design. 
  • [32:05] Rydhima and LuAnn discuss the Kaleidoscope Project and Rydhima’s experience with it. 
  • [46:26] Rydhima reflects on her path and what she has learned.

LuAnn and Rydhima Brar’s Ah-Ha moments:

“My world just turned upside down. It was a scary thing—my journey was terrifying. But during that time when I was home, a rebirth happened. I gave birth to my daughter and I gave birth to my business. That’s when I decide to really pursue my passion and remove myself from a place of fear and anxiety and into a sense of calm. Design became a place of refuge for me.” -Rydhima Brar

 

“That is the key. When you are determined, then you make things happen. It’s not a passive thing—starting a business. It’s not just an idea you put on paper that unfolds in front of you. It’s waking up everyday, recommitting to taking action, to being determined, to being undeterred, to believing in yourself and knowing that you’re worth it, that you’re worth doing this career.” -LuAnn Nigara

More about Rydhima Brar:

Rydhima Brar grew up in Kuwait, where her childhood was filled with breathtaking design & architecture, helping out with her father’s construction business. In 1990, the effects of the Gulf War drew Rydhima and her family to leave their home in the cover of night for another country. Returning to Kuwait after the war, I experienced the rebuilding of our home, and the rebirth of a nation. As her father then rebuilt his business, she helped him organize his building materials and sample libraries, always complaining but secretly loving every minute of it.

As a young adult, she then took to New York City to begin a career in Business and Finance, yet her love for design never left her. After several years, it was a move to L.A. that sparked the next evolution for her career, now shifting toward design, a transition that was gradual yet inevitable. Starting with her own condo, she rediscovered her love for an approachable + functional + luxe aesthetic, using bold color and unique pieces throughout. Friends were impressed with the result and Rydhima then began to help design their spaces.

A few projects later, she found herself fully immersed in the world of professional design, where she felt she belonged. She then balanced going back to school while working on projects, and the pages of the new chapter were lled with new experiences and challenges, which eventually led to the most recent chapter, the birth of her own business, R/terior Studio.

FUN FACT

Rydhima has a blog dedicated to discovering what your favorite cocktail says about your interior design style! Rydhima believes that craft cocktails, much like interiors, need to be carefully crafted with attention to every detail to become a masterpiece—Each ingredient, or design element, has a purpose, and when paired well with other ingredients, the result is sophisticated, balanced, and bold. Check-out the blog HERE.

Connect with Rydhima Brar

Kaleidoscope Project  

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

LinkedIn

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#739 Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life

#771 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street. To Succeed, Identify a Gap in the Marketplace

#743 Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business

#573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

#397 Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

#562 Rasheeda Gray: #BLM 2020 The Year of Vision

#23 Rio Hamilton – Media Expert and Author of the Wildly Popular Industry Blog, Mon Oncle

#614 Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business

#47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count

#669 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging

#677 Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

#455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

#601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

#203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

]]> 3635 no 779: Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/779-power-talk-friday-madeleine-macrae-what-should-the-ceo-of-an-interior-design-firm-be-doing TODAY WITH MADELEINE MACRAE: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with long-time friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert Madeleine MacRae.  I often hear from listeners and designers who understand that the old adage, “You have to work on your business, not in your business,” is true if they want to grow and scale. But they don’t always understand what that actually looks like. Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that let you scale at each stage of business. Pick it apart: [3:48] Madeleine breaks down the four stage of business and what each one entails.  [9:58] Madeleine and LuAnn discuss the value in knowing what level of business you desire to end up at.  [17:31] Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that solopreneurs should be doing. [27:35] Madeleine shares what the CEO must do as an owner/operator.  [46:54] Madeleine discusses the high-level activities that business owners should be doing at the owner/manager level. [55:55] Madeleine talks about the ultimate goal for those who want to scale—the true CEO level. LuAnn and Madeleine MacRae's Ah-Ha Moments “It's really important to remember that growth eats capital. So sometimes we get this idea of “I just want to become I want to go to owner operator, and then I want to go to owner manager, then I want to go to CEO” overlooks the fact that you're having to take that profit that your business is generating and reinvest into different things. learning, all of the things that you have to decide if you want to take it on.” -Madeleine MacRae   “If you don't have secured lead flow and you don't know how to turn that faucet on higher, you will never be able to move out of solopreneurship.” -Madeleine MacRae “To look back and think about the growth and the pain and the struggle and the rewards of each of the levels as I've worked my way through the different various stages and still stay in—it's a crazy feeling to be in the various stages at the same time with different companies.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Madeleine MacRae Website  Facebook Twitter Madeleine MacRae's Home Pro Toolbox What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #315 Madeleine MacRae: Invest 5 Days to Improve Your Sales Skills #283 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: Set Clear Goals in 5 Steps #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way #658 Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Books Mentioned: The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.   Fri, 03 Jun 2022 06:00:57 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: What Should the CEO of an Interior Design Firm Be Doing? full 779 LuAnn Nigara TODAY WITH MADELEINE MACRAE: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with long-time friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert Madeleine MacRae.  I often hear from listeners and designers who... TODAY WITH MADELEINE MACRAE: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with long-time friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert Madeleine MacRae.  I often hear from listeners and designers who understand that the old adage, “You have to work on your business, not in your business,” is true if they want to grow and scale. But they don’t always understand what that actually looks like. Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that let you scale at each stage of business. Pick it apart: [3:48] Madeleine breaks down the four stage of business and what each one entails.  [9:58] Madeleine and LuAnn discuss the value in knowing what level of business you desire to end up at.  [17:31] Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that solopreneurs should be doing. [27:35] Madeleine shares what the CEO must do as an owner/operator.  [46:54] Madeleine discusses the high-level activities that business owners should be doing at the owner/manager level. [55:55] Madeleine talks about the ultimate goal for those who want to scale—the true CEO level. LuAnn and Madeleine MacRae's Ah-Ha Moments “It's really important to remember that growth eats capital. So sometimes we get this idea of “I just want to become I want to go to owner operator, and then I want to go to owner manager, then I want to go to CEO” overlooks the fact that you're having to take that profit that your business is generating and reinvest into different things. learning, all of the things that you have to decide if you want to take it on.” -Madeleine MacRae   “If you don't have secured lead flow and you don't know how to turn that faucet on higher, you will never be able to move out of solopreneurship.” -Madeleine MacRae “To look back and think about the growth and the pain and the struggle and the rewards of each of the levels as I've worked my way through the different various stages and still stay in—it's a crazy feeling to be in the various stages at the same time with different companies.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Madeleine MacRae Website  Facebook Twitter Madeleine MacRae's Home Pro Toolbox What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #315 Madeleine MacRae: Invest 5 Days to Improve Your Sales Skills #283 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: Set Clear Goals in 5 Steps #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way #658 Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms #663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business #760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire Books Mentioned: The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with long-time friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert Madeleine MacRae. 

I often hear from listeners and designers who understand that the old adage, “You have to work on your business, not in your business,” is true if they want to grow and scale. But they don’t always understand what that actually looks like. Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that let you scale at each stage of business.

Pick it apart:

  • [3:48] Madeleine breaks down the four stage of business and what each one entails. 
  • [9:58] Madeleine and LuAnn discuss the value in knowing what level of business you desire to end up at. 
  • [17:31] Madeleine breaks down the CEO-level activities that solopreneurs should be doing.
  • [27:35] Madeleine shares what the CEO must do as an owner/operator. 
  • [46:54] Madeleine discusses the high-level activities that business owners should be doing at the owner/manager level.
  • [55:55] Madeleine talks about the ultimate goal for those who want to scale—the true CEO level.

LuAnn and Madeleine MacRae's Ah-Ha Moments

“It's really important to remember that growth eats capital. So sometimes we get this idea of “I just want to become I want to go to owner operator, and then I want to go to owner manager, then I want to go to CEO” overlooks the fact that you're having to take that profit that your business is generating and reinvest into different things. learning, all of the things that you have to decide if you want to take it on.” -Madeleine MacRae

 

“If you don't have secured lead flow and you don't know how to turn that faucet on higher, you will never be able to move out of solopreneurship.” -Madeleine MacRae

“To look back and think about the growth and the pain and the struggle and the rewards of each of the levels as I've worked my way through the different various stages and still stay in—it's a crazy feeling to be in the various stages at the same time with different companies.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Madeleine MacRae

Website 

Facebook

Twitter

Madeleine MacRae's Home Pro Toolbox

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#315 Madeleine MacRae: Invest 5 Days to Improve Your Sales Skills

#283 Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: Set Clear Goals in 5 Steps

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way

#658 Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms

#663 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business

#760 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

Books Mentioned:

The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn

Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.

 

]]> 4470 no 778: Deborah Main: A Journey Through Illness to Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/778-deborah-main-a-journey-through-illness-to-interior-design Today with Deborah Main: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little bit different than the usual business acumen. We’re diving into Deborah Main’s story of how she became The Pillow Goddess. Deborah is the epitome of an inspirational story—of resiliency, of overcoming hardship, and chronic illness, and of art and creativity serving as an outlet in times of suffering.  Deborah’s story serves as motivation, inspiration, and absolute proof that art and design can heal and bring joy in even the toughest of times. Pick it apart: [0:36] Deborah shares her inspirational story of battling chronic illness. [14:24] Deborah discusses how she found pillow design, serving as a creative outlet that helped her focus on something positive.  [24:00] Deborah shares the limitations her illness still has on her life and what it has taught her.  [35:46] Deborah tasks about how she works with interior designers. [43:42] LuAnn and Deborah discuss the new collection with Robin Baron. LuAnn and Deborah Main’s Ah-Ha moments: “You mention it as part of your journey, ‘Oh I answered an open call for designers and made some pillows and applied to Austin Fashion Week’ as if they are things you just do in the course of your day. I’ve got to believe that it took a lot of courage and guts to actually do it.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I was very sick at the time, and my husband thought I was crazy but he supported me. He easily could have said, ‘Oh you’re obviously feeling better—why don’t you just do the dishes and make me some food?’ But he just saw what was happening. He saw me opening up and lighting up and he was so happy to see that that he never questioned me—he just wanted me to keep doing pillows.” -Deborah Main More about Deborah Main: Deborah Main is The Pillow Goddess, a dynamic, innovative design leader who has helped individuals and businesses create beautiful, distinctive high-end spaces for 18 years.   Based in Austin, Texas, Deborah’s experience and deep appreciation for design, textiles, the home furnishings industry, and a wide variety of interiors and home products gives her a fully-rounded understanding of what it takes to provide an exceptional luxurious look and feel to both personal environments and commercial spaces. She provides interior designers with high-quality products for their clients, while also helping retailers and brands differentiate their products/services from their competitors.   Deborah’s private clients are some of the leading high-end specialty boutiques, national e-commerce sites, interior design businesses, and home brands in the United States. She has helped them provide value to their customers and environments – building brand awareness in the process – which has allowed them to position themselves as the exclusive and unsurpassed option for luxury clientele. Connect with Deborah Main Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest The UnZipped Collection What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. #454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer.  #638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken. #640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire. #654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business. #721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask. #723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review. #725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing. #727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More! Thank you to today's sponsor! Mydoma Studio: Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: #540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development #32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development #41 Cheryl Janis #423 Tiffannie White #715 Kathleen Jennison Sassy Says #45 Tiffannie White Sass Says #31 Cheryl Janis Tue, 31 May 2022 06:00:23 -0000 Deborah Main: A Journey Through Illness to Interior Design full 778 LuAnn Nigara Today with Deborah Main: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little bit different than the usual business acumen. We’re diving into Deborah Main’s story of how she became The Pillow Goddess. Deborah is the epitome of an... Today with Deborah Main: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s episode is a little bit different than the usual business acumen. We’re diving into Deborah Main’s story of how she became The Pillow Goddess. Deborah is the epitome of an inspirational story—of resiliency, of overcoming hardship, and chronic illness, and of art and creativity serving as an outlet in times of suffering.  Deborah’s story serves as motivation, inspiration, and absolute proof that art and design can heal and bring joy in even the toughest of times. Pick it apart: [0:36] Deborah shares her inspirational story of battling chronic illness. [14:24] Deborah discusses how she found pillow design, serving as a creative outlet that helped her focus on something positive.  [24:00] Deborah shares the limitations her illness still has on her life and what it has taught her.  [35:46] Deborah tasks about how she works with interior designers. [43:42] LuAnn and Deborah discuss the new collection with Robin Baron. LuAnn and Deborah Main’s Ah-Ha moments: “You mention it as part of your journey, ‘Oh I answered an open call for designers and made some pillows and applied to Austin Fashion Week’ as if they are things you just do in the course of your day. I’ve got to believe that it took a lot of courage and guts to actually do it.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I was very sick at the time, and my husband thought I was crazy but he supported me. He easily could have said, ‘Oh you’re obviously feeling better—why don’t you just do the dishes and make me some food?’ But he just saw what was happening. He saw me opening up and lighting up and he was so happy to see that that he never questioned me—he just wanted me to keep doing pillows.” -Deborah Main More about Deborah Main: Deborah Main is The Pillow Goddess, a dynamic, innovative design leader who has helped individuals and businesses create beautiful, distinctive high-end spaces for 18 years.   Based in Austin, Texas, Deborah’s experience and deep appreciation for design, textiles, the home furnishings industry, and a wide variety of interiors and home products gives her a fully-rounded understanding of what it takes to provide an exceptional luxurious look and feel to both personal environments and commercial spaces. She provides interior designers with high-quality products for their clients, while also helping retailers and brands differentiate their products/services from their competitors.   Deborah’s private clients are some of the leading high-end specialty boutiques, national e-commerce sites, interior design businesses, and home brands in the United States. She has helped them provide value to their customers and environments – building brand awareness in the process – which has allowed them to position themselves as the exclusive and unsurpassed option for luxury clientele. Connect with Deborah Main Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest The UnZipped Collection What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. #454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer.  #638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken. #640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire. #654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business. #721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask. #723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review. #725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing. #727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More! Thank you to today's sponsor! Mydoma Studio: Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: #540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development #32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development #41 Cheryl Janis #423 Tiffannie White #715 Kathleen Jennison Sassy Says #45 Tiffannie White Sass Says #31 Cheryl Janis Today with Deborah Main:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business.

Today’s episode is a little bit different than the usual business acumen. We’re diving into Deborah Main’s story of how she became The Pillow Goddess. Deborah is the epitome of an inspirational story—of resiliency, of overcoming hardship, and chronic illness, and of art and creativity serving as an outlet in times of suffering. 

Deborah’s story serves as motivation, inspiration, and absolute proof that art and design can heal and bring joy in even the toughest of times.

Pick it apart:

  • [0:36] Deborah shares her inspirational story of battling chronic illness.
  • [14:24] Deborah discusses how she found pillow design, serving as a creative outlet that helped her focus on something positive. 
  • [24:00] Deborah shares the limitations her illness still has on her life and what it has taught her. 
  • [35:46] Deborah tasks about how she works with interior designers.
  • [43:42] LuAnn and Deborah discuss the new collection with Robin Baron.

LuAnn and Deborah Main’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You mention it as part of your journey, ‘Oh I answered an open call for designers and made some pillows and applied to Austin Fashion Week’ as if they are things you just do in the course of your day. I’ve got to believe that it took a lot of courage and guts to actually do it.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I was very sick at the time, and my husband thought I was crazy but he supported me. He easily could have said, ‘Oh you’re obviously feeling better—why don’t you just do the dishes and make me some food?’ But he just saw what was happening. He saw me opening up and lighting up and he was so happy to see that that he never questioned me—he just wanted me to keep doing pillows.” -Deborah Main

More about Deborah Main:

Deborah Main is The Pillow Goddess, a dynamic, innovative design leader who has helped individuals and businesses create beautiful, distinctive high-end spaces for 18 years.

 

Based in Austin, Texas, Deborah’s experience and deep appreciation for design, textiles, the home furnishings industry, and a wide variety of interiors and home products gives her a fully-rounded understanding of what it takes to provide an exceptional luxurious look and feel to both personal environments and commercial spaces. She provides interior designers with high-quality products for their clients, while also helping retailers and brands differentiate their products/services from their competitors.

 

Deborah’s private clients are some of the leading high-end specialty boutiques, national e-commerce sites, interior design businesses, and home brands in the United States. She has helped them provide value to their customers and environments – building brand awareness in the process – which has allowed them to position themselves as the exclusive and unsurpassed option for luxury clientele.

Connect with Deborah Main

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

The UnZipped Collection

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation.

#454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer. 

#638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken.

#640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire.

#654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business.

#721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask.

#723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review.

#725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing.

#727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More!

Thank you to today's sponsor!

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

#32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

#41 Cheryl Janis

#423 Tiffannie White

#715 Kathleen Jennison

Sassy Says #45 Tiffannie White

Sass Says #31 Cheryl Janis

]]> 4174 no 777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/777-power-talk-friday-desi-creswell-the-focus-fix Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. If you’re anything like me, you have a neverending to-do list. There’s always something else to get done, another box to check, another urgent task to complete. But when we get bogged down in those tasks, it becomes impossible to work on the business.  So how do we motivate ourselves to take a step back and work on the higher level needs? Interior Design Coach Desi Creswell shares her framework for getting big tasks done, even if it feels like you’ll never be able to. Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022 Pick it apart: [2:52] Desi talks about what a balanced business looks like and how we stop ourselves from building one.  [14:40] Desi sheds light on common mistakes she sees when people try to focus on important tasks.  [29:09] Desi walks through her simple framework for tackling major tasks. [45:08] LuAnn and Desi talk about how to keep yourself committed to tasks even when you don’t want to do them.  [52:05] Desi shares the importance of evaluating yourself with curiosity to see why something isn’t getting done. LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments “Ask yourself ‘Why do I think that my clients are worthy of my time and attention but my business is not?’” -Desi Creswell “There will never be a time where you magically have a week where you don’t receive any emails or phone calls or have any deadlines.” -Desi Creswell “What you want us to recognize is, we don’t just do it on Tuesday because we put it in our calendar to do it. We do it because on Wednesday we will be so glad we took the first steps.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Desi Creswell Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022 Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #698 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 27 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000 777: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Leading from Your Future Self full 777 LuAnn Nigara Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. If you’re anything like me, you have a neverending to-do list. There’s always something else to get done, another box to check, another urgent task to complete. But when we get bogged... Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. If you’re anything like me, you have a neverending to-do list. There’s always something else to get done, another box to check, another urgent task to complete. But when we get bogged down in those tasks, it becomes impossible to work on the business.  So how do we motivate ourselves to take a step back and work on the higher level needs? Interior Design Coach Desi Creswell shares her framework for getting big tasks done, even if it feels like you’ll never be able to. Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022 Pick it apart: [2:52] Desi talks about what a balanced business looks like and how we stop ourselves from building one.  [14:40] Desi sheds light on common mistakes she sees when people try to focus on important tasks.  [29:09] Desi walks through her simple framework for tackling major tasks. [45:08] LuAnn and Desi talk about how to keep yourself committed to tasks even when you don’t want to do them.  [52:05] Desi shares the importance of evaluating yourself with curiosity to see why something isn’t getting done. LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments “Ask yourself ‘Why do I think that my clients are worthy of my time and attention but my business is not?’” -Desi Creswell “There will never be a time where you magically have a week where you don’t receive any emails or phone calls or have any deadlines.” -Desi Creswell “What you want us to recognize is, we don’t just do it on Tuesday because we put it in our calendar to do it. We do it because on Wednesday we will be so glad we took the first steps.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Desi Creswell Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022 Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #698 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. on the business.  So how do we motivate ourselves to take a step back and work on the higher level needs? Interior Design Coach Desi Creswell shares her framework for getting big tasks done, even if it feels like you’ll never be able to.

Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022

Pick it apart:

  • [2:52] Desi talks about what a balanced business looks like and how we stop ourselves from building one. 
  • [14:40] Desi sheds light on common mistakes she sees when people try to focus on important tasks. 
  • [29:09] Desi walks through her simple framework for tackling major tasks.
  • [45:08] LuAnn and Desi talk about how to keep yourself committed to tasks even when you don’t want to do them. 
  • [52:05] Desi shares the importance of evaluating yourself with curiosity to see why something isn’t getting done.

LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha Moments

“Ask yourself ‘Why do I think that my clients are worthy of my time and attention but my business is not?’” -Desi Creswell

“There will never be a time where you magically have a week where you don’t receive any emails or phone calls or have any deadlines.” -Desi Creswell

“What you want us to recognize is, we don’t just do it on Tuesday because we put it in our calendar to do it. We do it because on Wednesday we will be so glad we took the first steps.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Desi Creswell

Learn more about Desi’s masterclass “The Focus Fix” starting June 7th, 2022

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#698 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm

#557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

#475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time

#753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 4811 no 776: Sonal Kotecha: When the Student is Ready, The Teacher Will Appear. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/776-sonal-kotecha-when-the-student-is-ready-the-teacher-will-appear Today with Sonal Kotecha: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we have on Sonal Kotecha, founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm. Sonal and I were going back and forth on Instagram and she was telling me all of the lessons that she had learned from the show. As we were chatting, a light bulb went off and I knew I had to have her on as a guest. I am so appreciative of her sharing her lessons that I know you will benefit from hearing her story. Enjoy! Pick it apart: [6:38] Sonal tells us about the first big lesson she learned from A Well-Designed Business. [17:30] Sonal explains her second lesson from the podcast regarding your talent as a designer is not enough for success.  [27:49] Sonal and LuAnn discuss the third lesson Sonal learned.  [42:25] Sonal elaborates on her fourth lesson. [50:22] Lesson 5- we all need a “Vin” man.  [54:40] Last lesson of work-life balance is key. LuAnn and Sonal Kotecha’s Ah-Ha moments: “The discovery call is a sales presentation and the way we choose to discuss something, like trade discounts, will impact not only that conversation, but all of the following conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We know what we are good at and we lean into that, and we hire people for the areas that we aren’t “good.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We need to strategically prepare for situations when we are not being driven by a state of emergency.” - Sonal Kotecha  More about Sonal Kotecha: Sonal Kotecha is the founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm, dedicated to providing a stellar design service for her clients in the Middle East and beyond.    She calls herself a child of the world – after growing up as a second generation Indian in the United Kingdom, to parents born and raised in Kenya – she moved and set up her own home base in Dubai at the young age of 24, where she continues to live with her husband from yet another corner of the world, South Africa – and she credits this diverse background as being the reason she is able to connect on a deeper level to people & clients from all over the world.    She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture & Design from Nottingham Trent University in 2007. Shortly after graduating, fate led her on a one-way ticket to Dubai, where she built up experience working both as an in-house designer for a private developer, then for a multi-disciplinary interior design studio, before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship and starting Rumah Interiors in 2017.    Sonal likes to keep her ear to the ground when it comes to movements in her local property industry and has witnessed first-hand the astronomical leap in residential projects in Dubai over the last 12 months. Sparked by a post-pandemic heightened appreciation for a well-designed home environment, and several new UAE’s government backed initiatives, such as more accessible residency visa options, an influx of new residents moved into the country that she has proudly called home for the last 12years. As a result, the floodgates to new projects opened up, and she had to quickly adapt from being a one-woman show, to a small team of powerful [female] design professionals, who could take on multiple projects in parallel from concept through to completion.  She realized that some of her old processes & contracts were no longer viable, and then along came A Well Designed Business Podcast – and in the conversations, she found answers to the questions that had been keeping her awake at night… Connect with Sonal Kotecha Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. #454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer.  #638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken. #640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire. #654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business. #721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask. #723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review. #725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing. #727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More! Thank you to today's sponsor! Did you happen to go to the new Kravet Showroom in HP last month? They unveiled the Kravet Home. Kravet has furniture, rugs, lighting accessories and fabric for every room in your house, including your outdoor rooms. The new showroom in the Steel Building is beautifully set up as a home. From the foyer as you enter, all the way through the living room, great room, dining room, bedroom, home office suite and the outdoor patio space. It is a treat to see the fabrics, wallpapers, sofas, desks everything all displayed just as you would specify them in your projects. And the rooms have been designed by some of your favorite designers. Thom Filicia, Carrier & Co and Mabley Handler to name a few. So if you are planning to go to HP in the fall, be sure to put Kravet on your list of must see stops. And in the meantime, go to kravet.com and get your trade acct set up today. No opening minimum orders, no yearly minimums and true trade pricing, so you can make money. Check it out and tell them I sent you. Tue, 24 May 2022 06:00:34 -0000 Sonal Kotecha: When the Student is Ready, The Teacher Will Appear. full 776 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sonal Kotecha: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we have on Sonal Kotecha, founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm. Sonal and I were going back and forth on Instagram and she was telling me all of... Today with Sonal Kotecha: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we have on Sonal Kotecha, founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm. Sonal and I were going back and forth on Instagram and she was telling me all of the lessons that she had learned from the show. As we were chatting, a light bulb went off and I knew I had to have her on as a guest. I am so appreciative of her sharing her lessons that I know you will benefit from hearing her story. Enjoy! Pick it apart: [6:38] Sonal tells us about the first big lesson she learned from A Well-Designed Business. [17:30] Sonal explains her second lesson from the podcast regarding your talent as a designer is not enough for success.  [27:49] Sonal and LuAnn discuss the third lesson Sonal learned.  [42:25] Sonal elaborates on her fourth lesson. [50:22] Lesson 5- we all need a “Vin” man.  [54:40] Last lesson of work-life balance is key. LuAnn and Sonal Kotecha’s Ah-Ha moments: “The discovery call is a sales presentation and the way we choose to discuss something, like trade discounts, will impact not only that conversation, but all of the following conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We know what we are good at and we lean into that, and we hire people for the areas that we aren’t “good.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We need to strategically prepare for situations when we are not being driven by a state of emergency.” - Sonal Kotecha  More about Sonal Kotecha: Sonal Kotecha is the founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm, dedicated to providing a stellar design service for her clients in the Middle East and beyond.    She calls herself a child of the world – after growing up as a second generation Indian in the United Kingdom, to parents born and raised in Kenya – she moved and set up her own home base in Dubai at the young age of 24, where she continues to live with her husband from yet another corner of the world, South Africa – and she credits this diverse background as being the reason she is able to connect on a deeper level to people & clients from all over the world.    She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture & Design from Nottingham Trent University in 2007. Shortly after graduating, fate led her on a one-way ticket to Dubai, where she built up experience working both as an in-house designer for a private developer, then for a multi-disciplinary interior design studio, before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship and starting Rumah Interiors in 2017.    Sonal likes to keep her ear to the ground when it comes to movements in her local property industry and has witnessed first-hand the astronomical leap in residential projects in Dubai over the last 12 months. Sparked by a post-pandemic heightened appreciation for a well-designed home environment, and several new UAE’s government backed initiatives, such as more accessible residency visa options, an influx of new residents moved into the country that she has proudly called home for the last 12years. As a result, the floodgates to new projects opened up, and she had to quickly adapt from being a one-woman show, to a small team of powerful [female] design professionals, who could take on multiple projects in parallel from concept through to completion.  She realized that some of her old processes & contracts were no longer viable, and then along came A Well Designed Business Podcast – and in the conversations, she found answers to the questions that had been keeping her awake at night… Connect with Sonal Kotecha Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. #454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer.  #638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken. #640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire. #654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business. #721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask. #723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review. #725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing. #727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More! Thank you to today's sponsor! Did you happen to go to the new Kravet Showroom in HP last month? They unveiled the Kravet Home. Kravet has furniture, rugs, lighting accessories and fabric for every room in your house, including your outdoor rooms. The new showroom in the Steel Building is beautifully set up as a home. From the foyer as you enter, all the way through the living room, great room, dining room, bedroom, home office suite and the outdoor patio space. It is a treat to see the fabrics, wallpapers, sofas, desks everything all displayed just as you would specify them in your projects. And the rooms have been designed by some of your favorite designers. Thom Filicia, Carrier & Co and Mabley Handler to name a few. So if you are planning to go to HP in the fall, be sure to put Kravet on your list of must see stops. And in the meantime, go to kravet.com and get your trade acct set up today. No opening minimum orders, no yearly minimums and true trade pricing, so you can make money. Check it out and tell them I sent you. Today with Sonal Kotecha:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we have on Sonal Kotecha, founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm.

Sonal and I were going back and forth on Instagram and she was telling me all of the lessons that she had learned from the show. As we were chatting, a light bulb went off and I knew I had to have her on as a guest. I am so appreciative of her sharing her lessons that I know you will benefit from hearing her story. Enjoy!

Pick it apart:

[6:38] Sonal tells us about the first big lesson she learned from A Well-Designed Business.

[17:30] Sonal explains her second lesson from the podcast regarding your talent as a designer is not enough for success. 

[27:49] Sonal and LuAnn discuss the third lesson Sonal learned. 

[42:25] Sonal elaborates on her fourth lesson.

[50:22] Lesson 5- we all need a “Vin” man. 

[54:40] Last lesson of work-life balance is key.

LuAnn and Sonal Kotecha’s Ah-Ha moments:

“The discovery call is a sales presentation and the way we choose to discuss something, like trade discounts, will impact not only that conversation, but all of the following conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“We know what we are good at and we lean into that, and we hire people for the areas that we aren’t “good.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“We need to strategically prepare for situations when we are not being driven by a state of emergency.” - Sonal Kotecha 

More about Sonal Kotecha:

Sonal Kotecha is the founder of Rumah Interiors, a Dubai-based boutique interior design firm, dedicated to providing a stellar design service for her clients in the Middle East and beyond. 

 

She calls herself a child of the world – after growing up as a second generation Indian in the United Kingdom, to parents born and raised in Kenya – she moved and set up her own home base in Dubai at the young age of 24, where she continues to live with her husband from yet another corner of the world, South Africa – and she credits this diverse background as being the reason she is able to connect on a deeper level to people & clients from all over the world. 

 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture & Design from Nottingham Trent University in 2007. Shortly after graduating, fate led her on a one-way ticket to Dubai, where she built up experience working both as an in-house designer for a private developer, then for a multi-disciplinary interior design studio, before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship and starting Rumah Interiors in 2017. 

 

Sonal likes to keep her ear to the ground when it comes to movements in her local property industry and has witnessed first-hand the astronomical leap in residential projects in Dubai over the last 12 months. Sparked by a post-pandemic heightened appreciation for a well-designed home environment, and several new UAE’s government backed initiatives, such as more accessible residency visa options, an influx of new residents moved into the country that she has proudly called home for the last 12years. As a result, the floodgates to new projects opened up, and she had to quickly adapt from being a one-woman show, to a small team of powerful [female] design professionals, who could take on multiple projects in parallel from concept through to completion.  She realized that some of her old processes & contracts were no longer viable, and then along came A Well Designed Business Podcast – and in the conversations, she found answers to the questions that had been keeping her awake at night…

Connect with Sonal Kotecha

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#449- Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation.

#454- Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal: Lawyers That Speak Designer. 

#638- What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken.

#640- Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell: Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire.

#654- Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business.

#721- What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021-Questions to Ask.

#723- What Would Lu Do?: Let’s Do a Revenue Generator Review.

#725- What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing.

#727- What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More!

Thank you to today's sponsor!

Did you happen to go to the new Kravet Showroom in HP last month? They unveiled the Kravet Home. Kravet has furniture, rugs, lighting accessories and fabric for every room in your house, including your outdoor rooms. The new showroom in the Steel Building is beautifully set up as a home. From the foyer as you enter, all the way through the living room, great room, dining room, bedroom, home office suite and the outdoor patio space. It is a treat to see the fabrics, wallpapers, sofas, desks everything all displayed just as you would specify them in your projects. And the rooms have been designed by some of your favorite designers. Thom Filicia, Carrier & Co and Mabley Handler to name a few. So if you are planning to go to HP in the fall, be sure to put Kravet on your list of must see stops. And in the meantime, go to kravet.com and get your trade acct set up today. No opening minimum orders, no yearly minimums and true trade pricing, so you can make money. Check it out and tell them I sent you.

]]> 4671 no 775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/775-window-treatment-friday-vita-vygovska-how-much-profit-can-designers-make-on-window-treatments Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 3 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.  Today, we are covering profit, and what designers can expect when selling window treatments. More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.   Fri, 20 May 2022 06:00:38 -0000 775: Window Treatment Friday: Vita Vygovska: How Much Profit Can Designers Make on Window Treatments? full 775 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 3 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 3 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.  Today, we are covering profit, and what designers can expect when selling window treatments. More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.   Today with Vita Vygovska

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 3 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. 

Today, we are covering profit, and what designers can expect when selling window treatments.

More About Vita Vygovska

Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives.

Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.

 

]]> 2901 no 774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/774-rick-campos-design-biz-survival-guide-celebrates-4-years Today with Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Interior Designer and fellow podcaster Rick Campos of Design Biz Survival Guide. I had the absolute honor of turning the tables on Rick and putting him in the hot seat for his 4 year anniversary episode. I am delighted to share this with you today and thank you again Rick for the tremendous honor of making me apart of this milestone. More about Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry. In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community. In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels. The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community. “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.” Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 17 May 2022 06:00:22 -0000 Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years! full 774 LuAnn Nigara Today with Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Interior Designer and fellow podcaster Rick Campos of Design Biz Survival Guide. I had the absolute honor of turning the tables on Rick and putting him in the hot seat... Today with Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Interior Designer and fellow podcaster Rick Campos of Design Biz Survival Guide. I had the absolute honor of turning the tables on Rick and putting him in the hot seat for his 4 year anniversary episode. I am delighted to share this with you today and thank you again Rick for the tremendous honor of making me apart of this milestone. More about Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry. In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community. In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels. The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community. “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.” Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram  Facebook  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Rick Campos:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Interior Designer and fellow podcaster Rick Campos of Design Biz Survival Guide. I had the absolute honor of turning the tables on Rick and putting him in the hot seat for his 4 year anniversary episode. I am delighted to share this with you today and thank you again Rick for the tremendous honor of making me apart of this milestone.

More about Rick Campos:

Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry. In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community. In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels. The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community. “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.”

Connect with Lesley Myrick

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3405 no 773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/773-power-talk-friday-the-company-store-quality-sustainability-and-innovation Today with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan from The Company Store. We’re talking about the importance of staying on color trends, seasonal rotations of products, how the brand stays dedicated to premium quality, and their commitment to sustainability. Pick it apart: [18:34] Melanie shares her background in design and textiles, including experience in cotton mills that laid the foundation of her expertise.  [23:27] Melanie discusses how her team plays into the success of the brand.  [26:30] Melanie talks about the company’s design process and valuable partnerships.  [31:30] Corinne and Melanie share how seasonal rotation and constant innovation keep the brand’s designs fresh and relevant.  [44:23] Corinne and Melanie talk about how they maintain their commitment to artisanal quality. Ah-Ha Moments: “We have global design partners all over the world. It’s been my experience that partnership is so much a part of the success of the brand. We have great suppliers that understand our mission. We have design people that are so talented and understand the direction and vision of The Company Store. It’s an ongoing process. We think about the lifestyle, we think about the quality it needs to represent. We never shortcut anything in this brand.” -Melanie Kaplan   “We are the color authority. We have never, ever been afraid of color. In fact, we love it, and that’s a distinction of The Company Store.” -Melanie Kaplan   “That is the type of support that an interior designer needs, when you’re going to recommend bedding—people are going to sleep on this. Comfort is key and critical, and it can be judged way more harshly than walking on an area rug, for example. When I think about everything that goes into your products, I know I would not want to learn all of the things, so it’s nice that designers can just go to the website and order swatches.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with The Company Store Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. More about Melanie Kaplan: Following a graduate program in Textile Design and Science at Fashion Institute of Technology, Melanie  Kaplan launched a career in design and development of home furnishings products that spans a range  from decorative fabrics to finished consumer products, from bed ensembles to lifestyle furniture, from  children’s garments to kitchen textiles.  From Design Director for a decorative fabrics company, Melanie transitioned to Vice President of Product Design and Development at a bedding producer, where she first worked directly with major  retailers to develop their programs.  As Senior VP of Design for home furnishings at Dan River, a storied American textile company, Melanie’s  ability to translate art and concept to commercially successful design led Dan River to a spot as an  innovative leading supplier to the retail home furnishings market.   In 2007, Melanie moved to the retail world as the Chief Creative Officer for Hanover Direct Inc., where  she headed all design, product development, sourcing and image development for the company’s key  brands, including The Company Store.   Since The Home Depot’s acquisition of The Company Store in 2017, Melanie continues in a leadership  role. As Product Development Senior Merchant, her energy, expertise and leadership continue to inspire  colleagues on all sides of the global supply chain to the American home furnishings consumer.  A native New Yorker, Melanie commits free time and resources to organizations committed to  improving the lives of individuals, children and families affected by various hardships. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show! Fri, 13 May 2022 06:00:57 -0000 Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation full 773 LuAnn Nigara Today with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan from The Company Store. We’re talking about the importance of staying... Today with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan from The Company Store. We’re talking about the importance of staying on color trends, seasonal rotations of products, how the brand stays dedicated to premium quality, and their commitment to sustainability. Pick it apart: [18:34] Melanie shares her background in design and textiles, including experience in cotton mills that laid the foundation of her expertise.  [23:27] Melanie discusses how her team plays into the success of the brand.  [26:30] Melanie talks about the company’s design process and valuable partnerships.  [31:30] Corinne and Melanie share how seasonal rotation and constant innovation keep the brand’s designs fresh and relevant.  [44:23] Corinne and Melanie talk about how they maintain their commitment to artisanal quality. Ah-Ha Moments: “We have global design partners all over the world. It’s been my experience that partnership is so much a part of the success of the brand. We have great suppliers that understand our mission. We have design people that are so talented and understand the direction and vision of The Company Store. It’s an ongoing process. We think about the lifestyle, we think about the quality it needs to represent. We never shortcut anything in this brand.” -Melanie Kaplan   “We are the color authority. We have never, ever been afraid of color. In fact, we love it, and that’s a distinction of The Company Store.” -Melanie Kaplan   “That is the type of support that an interior designer needs, when you’re going to recommend bedding—people are going to sleep on this. Comfort is key and critical, and it can be judged way more harshly than walking on an area rug, for example. When I think about everything that goes into your products, I know I would not want to learn all of the things, so it’s nice that designers can just go to the website and order swatches.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with The Company Store Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. More about Melanie Kaplan: Following a graduate program in Textile Design and Science at Fashion Institute of Technology, Melanie  Kaplan launched a career in design and development of home furnishings products that spans a range  from decorative fabrics to finished consumer products, from bed ensembles to lifestyle furniture, from  children’s garments to kitchen textiles.  From Design Director for a decorative fabrics company, Melanie transitioned to Vice President of Product Design and Development at a bedding producer, where she first worked directly with major  retailers to develop their programs.  As Senior VP of Design for home furnishings at Dan River, a storied American textile company, Melanie’s  ability to translate art and concept to commercially successful design led Dan River to a spot as an  innovative leading supplier to the retail home furnishings market.   In 2007, Melanie moved to the retail world as the Chief Creative Officer for Hanover Direct Inc., where  she headed all design, product development, sourcing and image development for the company’s key  brands, including The Company Store.   Since The Home Depot’s acquisition of The Company Store in 2017, Melanie continues in a leadership  role. As Product Development Senior Merchant, her energy, expertise and leadership continue to inspire  colleagues on all sides of the global supply chain to the American home furnishings consumer.  A native New Yorker, Melanie commits free time and resources to organizations committed to  improving the lives of individuals, children and families affected by various hardships. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show! Today with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan from The Company Store. We’re talking about the importance of staying on color trends, seasonal rotations of products, how the brand stays dedicated to premium quality, and their commitment to sustainability.

Pick it apart:

[18:34] Melanie shares her background in design and textiles, including experience in cotton mills that laid the foundation of her expertise. 

[23:27] Melanie discusses how her team plays into the success of the brand. 

[26:30] Melanie talks about the company’s design process and valuable partnerships. 

[31:30] Corinne and Melanie share how seasonal rotation and constant innovation keep the brand’s designs fresh and relevant. 

[44:23] Corinne and Melanie talk about how they maintain their commitment to artisanal quality.

Ah-Ha Moments:

“We have global design partners all over the world. It’s been my experience that partnership is so much a part of the success of the brand. We have great suppliers that understand our mission. We have design people that are so talented and understand the direction and vision of The Company Store. It’s an ongoing process. We think about the lifestyle, we think about the quality it needs to represent. We never shortcut anything in this brand.” -Melanie Kaplan

 

“We are the color authority. We have never, ever been afraid of color. In fact, we love it, and that’s a distinction of The Company Store.” -Melanie Kaplan

 

“That is the type of support that an interior designer needs, when you’re going to recommend bedding—people are going to sleep on this. Comfort is key and critical, and it can be judged way more harshly than walking on an area rug, for example. When I think about everything that goes into your products, I know I would not want to learn all of the things, so it’s nice that designers can just go to the website and order swatches.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with The Company Store

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Twitter

More About Corinne Bentzen:

Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie.

More about Melanie Kaplan:

Following a graduate program in Textile Design and Science at Fashion Institute of Technology, Melanie  Kaplan launched a career in design and development of home furnishings products that spans a range  from decorative fabrics to finished consumer products, from bed ensembles to lifestyle furniture, from  children’s garments to kitchen textiles. 

From Design Director for a decorative fabrics company, Melanie transitioned to Vice President of Product Design and Development at a bedding producer, where she first worked directly with major  retailers to develop their programs. 

As Senior VP of Design for home furnishings at Dan River, a storied American textile company, Melanie’s  ability to translate art and concept to commercially successful design led Dan River to a spot as an  innovative leading supplier to the retail home furnishings market.  

In 2007, Melanie moved to the retail world as the Chief Creative Officer for Hanover Direct Inc., where  she headed all design, product development, sourcing and image development for the company’s key  brands, including The Company Store.  

Since The Home Depot’s acquisition of The Company Store in 2017, Melanie continues in a leadership  role. As Product Development Senior Merchant, her energy, expertise and leadership continue to inspire  colleagues on all sides of the global supply chain to the American home furnishings consumer. 

A native New Yorker, Melanie commits free time and resources to organizations committed to  improving the lives of individuals, children and families affected by various hardships.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show!

]]> 3459 no 722: What Would Lu Do?: Feeling Undervalued and Taken Advantage Of http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/722-what-would-lu-do-feeling-undervalued-and-taken-advantage-of Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Have you ever had a project where you felt undervalued and taken advantage of? A situation where someone else was taking credit for your work? What about mixing work and family?  These factors create a spiderweb of entanglements and equal a ticking time bomb of emotions and feelings. Today's episode comes from a listener who, while highly skilled, talented, and experienced, has found herself in a situation where she has mixed family and business in a high dollar project in which she is not getting the compensation or recognition for her contributions. Listen in as I break down the situation, the challenges, and what Lu would do. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Tue, 10 May 2022 06:00:27 -0000 722: What Would Lu Do?: Feeling Undervalued and Taken Advantage Of full 722 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Have you ever had a project where you felt undervalued and taken advantage of? A situation where someone else was taking credit for your work? What about mixing work and... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Have you ever had a project where you felt undervalued and taken advantage of? A situation where someone else was taking credit for your work? What about mixing work and family?  These factors create a spiderweb of entanglements and equal a ticking time bomb of emotions and feelings. Today's episode comes from a listener who, while highly skilled, talented, and experienced, has found herself in a situation where she has mixed family and business in a high dollar project in which she is not getting the compensation or recognition for her contributions. Listen in as I break down the situation, the challenges, and what Lu would do. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Have you ever had a project where you felt undervalued and taken advantage of? A situation where someone else was taking credit for your work? What about mixing work and family? 

These factors create a spiderweb of entanglements and equal a ticking time bomb of emotions and feelings. Today's episode comes from a listener who, while highly skilled, talented, and experienced, has found herself in a situation where she has mixed family and business in a high dollar project in which she is not getting the compensation or recognition for her contributions.

Listen in as I break down the situation, the challenges, and what Lu would do.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 1766 no 771: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street. To Succeed, Identify a Gap in the Marketplace http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/771-power-talk-friday-michelle-feeney-founder-of-floral-street-to-succeed-identify-a-gap-in-the-marketplace Today with Michelle Feeney: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On this Power Talk Friday I am talking to Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Floral Street is a modern British fragrance that is both sustainable and eco-friendly. You’re probably wondering why I had Michelle on. Well despite her not being in interior design ,Michelle has provided me with a couple of aha moments that I want to bring to my listeners. She is an intelligent and accomplished business person and I can’t wait for you to hear about her experience to the top, how her fragrances make her customers feel, and how taking a break to stay at home gave her the information she needed to jump back in!    Pick it apart: [1:00] Michelle and LuAnn talk about the correlation between how a floral scent should make you feel on your body, but also when you walk into a room.  [13:18] Michelle talks about starting Floral Street at 53-years old.  [27:18] Michelle tells us how Floral Street breaks the mold in the sustainability of the fragrances ingredients and packaging.  [32:37] Tiffany talks about how to make your brand a cult brand through partnerships. LuAnn and Michelle Feeney's Ah-Ha Moments “Interior designers focus on how clients want to feel in a space. They should extend that into, not only how the products in the room contribute to the “feel,” but also how the room is scented.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Many people fear how to get investments from the “big boys”with the money, but what they lack are the ideas and passion that you have.” - Michelle Feeney   “It’s important to take yourself out of that everyday and look in, to see how your idea could fit into the modern world.” - Michelle Feeney    “If you are an individual and you are trying to build your brand, who you associate with becomes really important. There’s strength in numbers because they can help you tell your story.” - Michelle Feeney Connect with Floral Street Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #32- Robin Baron- The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks With Us About PR and Brand Development  #540- Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Brand Development Fri, 06 May 2022 06:00:20 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street. To Succeed, Identify a Gap in the Marketplace full 771 LuAnn Nigara Today with Michelle Feeney: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On this Power Talk Friday I am talking to Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Floral Street is a modern British fragrance that is both sustainable and eco-friendly. You’re... Today with Michelle Feeney: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On this Power Talk Friday I am talking to Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Floral Street is a modern British fragrance that is both sustainable and eco-friendly. You’re probably wondering why I had Michelle on. Well despite her not being in interior design ,Michelle has provided me with a couple of aha moments that I want to bring to my listeners. She is an intelligent and accomplished business person and I can’t wait for you to hear about her experience to the top, how her fragrances make her customers feel, and how taking a break to stay at home gave her the information she needed to jump back in!    Pick it apart: [1:00] Michelle and LuAnn talk about the correlation between how a floral scent should make you feel on your body, but also when you walk into a room.  [13:18] Michelle talks about starting Floral Street at 53-years old.  [27:18] Michelle tells us how Floral Street breaks the mold in the sustainability of the fragrances ingredients and packaging.  [32:37] Tiffany talks about how to make your brand a cult brand through partnerships. LuAnn and Michelle Feeney's Ah-Ha Moments “Interior designers focus on how clients want to feel in a space. They should extend that into, not only how the products in the room contribute to the “feel,” but also how the room is scented.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Many people fear how to get investments from the “big boys”with the money, but what they lack are the ideas and passion that you have.” - Michelle Feeney   “It’s important to take yourself out of that everyday and look in, to see how your idea could fit into the modern world.” - Michelle Feeney    “If you are an individual and you are trying to build your brand, who you associate with becomes really important. There’s strength in numbers because they can help you tell your story.” - Michelle Feeney Connect with Floral Street Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #32- Robin Baron- The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks With Us About PR and Brand Development  #540- Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Brand Development Today with Michelle Feeney:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On this Power Talk Friday I am talking to Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Floral Street is a modern British fragrance that is both sustainable and eco-friendly.

You’re probably wondering why I had Michelle on. Well despite her not being in interior design ,Michelle has provided me with a couple of aha moments that I want to bring to my listeners. She is an intelligent and accomplished business person and I can’t wait for you to hear about her experience to the top, how her fragrances make her customers feel, and how taking a break to stay at home gave her the information she needed to jump back in! 

 

Pick it apart:

[1:00] Michelle and LuAnn talk about the correlation between how a floral scent should make you feel on your body, but also when you walk into a room. 

[13:18] Michelle talks about starting Floral Street at 53-years old. 

[27:18] Michelle tells us how Floral Street breaks the mold in the sustainability of the fragrances ingredients and packaging. 

[32:37] Tiffany talks about how to make your brand a cult brand through partnerships.

LuAnn and Michelle Feeney's Ah-Ha Moments

“Interior designers focus on how clients want to feel in a space. They should extend that into, not only how the products in the room contribute to the “feel,” but also how the room is scented.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“Many people fear how to get investments from the “big boys”with the money, but what they lack are the ideas and passion that you have.” - Michelle Feeney

 

“It’s important to take yourself out of that everyday and look in, to see how your idea could fit into the modern world.” - Michelle Feeney 

 

“If you are an individual and you are trying to build your brand, who you associate with becomes really important. There’s strength in numbers because they can help you tell your story.” - Michelle Feeney

Connect with Floral Street

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#32- Robin Baron- The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks With Us About PR and Brand Development 

#540- Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Brand Development

]]> 2992 no 770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/770-tiffany-cassidy-niching-into-vacation-home-design Today with Tiffany Cassidy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Tiffany Cassidy, co-founder and principal designer of Lagnappe Custom Interiors. Tiffany and I discuss the fear some have about niching down your business and how Tiffany powered through her own fear. Every guest that has been on the show that has chosen a niche has said that it was the best decision they made for their business. Tiffany couldn't agree more and she has done such a wonderful job at combining her past experiences with what she’s learned from coach Tobi Fairley to niche into her luxury vacation rental design business. Please join us to learn about Tiffany’s niching journey and the versatile services that Lagnappe Custom Interiors has to offer.    Pick it apart: [6:13] Tiffany starts to tell us about when she decided to niche her design firm down and how she went about it. [16:30] Tiffany explains her initial resistance in niching down.  [20:15] Additional services that Lagnappe Interiors offers, also for those who want to DIY.  [32:45] Tiffany tells us more about her Designer for a Day Program and Master Plan program. LuAnn and Tiffany Cassidy’s Ah-Ha moments: “Part of my resistance to niche down was wanting to keep my options open. It felt scary to  limit, but learned it wasn’t limiting at all because people would come to me for help.” - Tiffany Cassidy   “I encourage other designers to niche down because it frees up your mind in so many ways and helps you grow your business in a specific manner.” - Tiffany Cassidy    As designers when we are doing full service projects working with project managers and contractors, when we make our project book we should ask ourselves what are all of the potential questions they could ask us.” - Tiffany Cassidy  More about Tiffany Cassidy: A native of California with both a degree in chemistry and a highly creative side, Tiffany has been designing beautiful homes and commercial spaces in the U.S. Virgin Islands for her long list of clients since 2002. She marries her artistic and scientific sides together by transforming the intangible into breathtaking, cohesive and highly functional designs delivered in systematic and organized bliss. Tiffany considers it a privilege to be invited into other people’s homes to help them transform their personal spaces and her goal is to not only make your home prettier but in doing so, make your life better. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  ebook on Vacation rental Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #15- Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #174- Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #368- Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design  #440- Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients   #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business Tue, 03 May 2022 06:00:19 -0000 Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design full 770 LuAnn Nigara Today with Tiffany Cassidy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Tiffany Cassidy, co-founder and principal designer of Lagnappe Custom Interiors. Tiffany and I discuss the fear some have about niching down your business and how... Today with Tiffany Cassidy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Tiffany Cassidy, co-founder and principal designer of Lagnappe Custom Interiors. Tiffany and I discuss the fear some have about niching down your business and how Tiffany powered through her own fear. Every guest that has been on the show that has chosen a niche has said that it was the best decision they made for their business. Tiffany couldn't agree more and she has done such a wonderful job at combining her past experiences with what she’s learned from coach Tobi Fairley to niche into her luxury vacation rental design business. Please join us to learn about Tiffany’s niching journey and the versatile services that Lagnappe Custom Interiors has to offer.    Pick it apart: [6:13] Tiffany starts to tell us about when she decided to niche her design firm down and how she went about it. [16:30] Tiffany explains her initial resistance in niching down.  [20:15] Additional services that Lagnappe Interiors offers, also for those who want to DIY.  [32:45] Tiffany tells us more about her Designer for a Day Program and Master Plan program. LuAnn and Tiffany Cassidy’s Ah-Ha moments: “Part of my resistance to niche down was wanting to keep my options open. It felt scary to  limit, but learned it wasn’t limiting at all because people would come to me for help.” - Tiffany Cassidy   “I encourage other designers to niche down because it frees up your mind in so many ways and helps you grow your business in a specific manner.” - Tiffany Cassidy    As designers when we are doing full service projects working with project managers and contractors, when we make our project book we should ask ourselves what are all of the potential questions they could ask us.” - Tiffany Cassidy  More about Tiffany Cassidy: A native of California with both a degree in chemistry and a highly creative side, Tiffany has been designing beautiful homes and commercial spaces in the U.S. Virgin Islands for her long list of clients since 2002. She marries her artistic and scientific sides together by transforming the intangible into breathtaking, cohesive and highly functional designs delivered in systematic and organized bliss. Tiffany considers it a privilege to be invited into other people’s homes to help them transform their personal spaces and her goal is to not only make your home prettier but in doing so, make your life better. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  ebook on Vacation rental Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #15- Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #174- Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #368- Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design  #440- Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients   #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business Today with Tiffany Cassidy:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Tiffany Cassidy, co-founder and principal designer of Lagnappe Custom Interiors. Tiffany and I discuss the fear some have about niching down your business and how Tiffany powered through her own fear. Every guest that has been on the show that has chosen a niche has said that it was the best decision they made for their business. Tiffany couldn't agree more and she has done such a wonderful job at combining her past experiences with what she’s learned from coach Tobi Fairley to niche into her luxury vacation rental design business. Please join us to learn about Tiffany’s niching journey and the versatile services that Lagnappe Custom Interiors has to offer.   

Pick it apart:

  • [6:13] Tiffany starts to tell us about when she decided to niche her design firm down and how she went about it.

    [16:30] Tiffany explains her initial resistance in niching down. 

    [20:15] Additional services that Lagnappe Interiors offers, also for those who want to DIY. 

    [32:45] Tiffany tells us more about her Designer for a Day Program and Master Plan program.

LuAnn and Tiffany Cassidy’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Part of my resistance to niche down was wanting to keep my options open. It felt scary to  limit, but learned it wasn’t limiting at all because people would come to me for help.” - Tiffany Cassidy

 

“I encourage other designers to niche down because it frees up your mind in so many ways and helps you grow your business in a specific manner.” - Tiffany Cassidy 

 

As designers when we are doing full service projects working with project managers and contractors, when we make our project book we should ask ourselves what are all of the potential questions they could ask us.” - Tiffany Cassidy 

More about Tiffany Cassidy:

A native of California with both a degree in chemistry and a highly creative side, Tiffany has been designing beautiful homes and commercial spaces in the U.S. Virgin Islands for her long list of clients since 2002. She marries her artistic and scientific sides together by transforming the intangible into breathtaking, cohesive and highly functional designs delivered in systematic and organized bliss. Tiffany considers it a privilege to be invited into other people’s homes to help them transform their personal spaces and her goal is to not only make your home prettier but in doing so, make your life better.

Connect with Lesley Myrick

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

ebook on Vacation rental

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#15- Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich

#174- Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#368- Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design 

#440- Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program

#753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients

 

#584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

 

#37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

]]> 3407 no 769: Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques for Introverts http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/769-power-talk-friday-leah-neaderthal-sales-techniques-for-introverts Today with Leah Neaderthal: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  As you probably know, I am as extroverted as they come—a trait which I believe plays into my sales success. But extroversion isn’t necessary to be a good salesperson. In fact, my guest today, Leah Neaderthal, would say that introverts possess several qualities that make them natural sales superstars—if they know how to tap into them and use them. She’s sharing how to do just that, teaching introverts how to sell with strength and confidence.   Pick it apart: [2:00] Leah shares why being an introvert is actually a sales superpower.  [5:39] LuAnn and Leah discuss the importance of tapping into what your client is saying, even if they aren’t actually saying it.  [7:39] Leah talks about diving deep into the value you are bringing to your clients.  [18:02] Leah and LuAnn discuss the strength of saying no.  [25:46] Leah points out ways that we unknowingly get clients to say no.  [35:07] Leah shares two mindset shifts for selling to mid-size companies or corporate clients.  LuAnn and Leah Neaderthal's Ah-Ha Moments “To all the introverts out there—I see you, I validate you, I am you. I do want to let you know that the things that make you an introvert and make you the way you are actually are your superpower when it comes to selling.” -Leah Neaderthal   “The most successful salespeople are people who listen, who ask a question, stop talking, and observe. People aren’t always saying expressly in words exactly what they intend to say. By asking questions, listening, and observing, we start to uncover the nuggets that show what the pain point of our client actually is. We have to know these things to come up with the solution for them to make selling to them easy.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Leah Neaderthal Website  LinkedIn Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s website, finding the exact products you need is easier than ever. You can create tailored searches that yield the exact results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today to get started. Fri, 29 Apr 2022 06:00:08 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Leah Neaderthal: Sales Techniques for Introverts full 769 LuAnn Nigara Today with Leah Neaderthal: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  As you probably know, I am as extroverted as they come—a trait which I believe plays into my sales success. But extroversion isn’t necessary to be a good salesperson. In fact,... Today with Leah Neaderthal: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  As you probably know, I am as extroverted as they come—a trait which I believe plays into my sales success. But extroversion isn’t necessary to be a good salesperson. In fact, my guest today, Leah Neaderthal, would say that introverts possess several qualities that make them natural sales superstars—if they know how to tap into them and use them. She’s sharing how to do just that, teaching introverts how to sell with strength and confidence.   Pick it apart: [2:00] Leah shares why being an introvert is actually a sales superpower.  [5:39] LuAnn and Leah discuss the importance of tapping into what your client is saying, even if they aren’t actually saying it.  [7:39] Leah talks about diving deep into the value you are bringing to your clients.  [18:02] Leah and LuAnn discuss the strength of saying no.  [25:46] Leah points out ways that we unknowingly get clients to say no.  [35:07] Leah shares two mindset shifts for selling to mid-size companies or corporate clients.  LuAnn and Leah Neaderthal's Ah-Ha Moments “To all the introverts out there—I see you, I validate you, I am you. I do want to let you know that the things that make you an introvert and make you the way you are actually are your superpower when it comes to selling.” -Leah Neaderthal   “The most successful salespeople are people who listen, who ask a question, stop talking, and observe. People aren’t always saying expressly in words exactly what they intend to say. By asking questions, listening, and observing, we start to uncover the nuggets that show what the pain point of our client actually is. We have to know these things to come up with the solution for them to make selling to them easy.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Leah Neaderthal Website  LinkedIn Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s website, finding the exact products you need is easier than ever. You can create tailored searches that yield the exact results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today to get started. Today with Leah Neaderthal:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  As you probably know, I am as extroverted as they come—a trait which I believe plays into my sales success. But extroversion isn’t necessary to be a good salesperson. In fact, my guest today, Leah Neaderthal, would say that introverts possess several qualities that make them natural sales superstars—if they know how to tap into them and use them. She’s sharing how to do just that, teaching introverts how to sell with strength and confidence.

 

Pick it apart:

[2:00] Leah shares why being an introvert is actually a sales superpower. 

[5:39] LuAnn and Leah discuss the importance of tapping into what your client is saying, even if they aren’t actually saying it. 

[7:39] Leah talks about diving deep into the value you are bringing to your clients. 

[18:02] Leah and LuAnn discuss the strength of saying no. 

[25:46] Leah points out ways that we unknowingly get clients to say no. 

[35:07] Leah shares two mindset shifts for selling to mid-size companies or corporate clients. 

LuAnn and Leah Neaderthal's Ah-Ha Moments

“To all the introverts out there—I see you, I validate you, I am you. I do want to let you know that the things that make you an introvert and make you the way you are actually are your superpower when it comes to selling.” -Leah Neaderthal

 

“The most successful salespeople are people who listen, who ask a question, stop talking, and observe. People aren’t always saying expressly in words exactly what they intend to say. By asking questions, listening, and observing, we start to uncover the nuggets that show what the pain point of our client actually is. We have to know these things to come up with the solution for them to make selling to them easy.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Leah Neaderthal

Website 

LinkedIn

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s website, finding the exact products you need is easier than ever. You can create tailored searches that yield the exact results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today to get started.

]]> 3821 no 768: Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/768-jaipur-living-a-new-collaboration-with-kate-lester Today with Kate Lester: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On today’s sponsored show with Kate Lester Interiors, we’re taking a look at the Harman collection—a line of beautiful vintage reproduction rugs, inspired by Kate’s travels and passions. In collaboration with Jaipur Living, Kate launched the Harman collection to bring the beauty of one-of-a-kind elaborate vintage rugs to modern designs for all levels of clients.   Pick it apart: [1:29] Kate shares the story of how she and Jaipur Living came together to launch the Harman collection. [7:33] Kate gives insight into what reproductive vintage pieces are and why they are desirable.  [13:03] Kate discusses her vision for the collection and how it came to fruition. [18:50] Kate tells LuAnn about the Turkish roots of the collection’s name and its symbolism for the project.  [24:03] Kate discusses the inspiration and design process used for the rugs.  [32:38] Kate shares how her background in marketing helps her stand stronger in her business.   More About Kate Lester: Kate Lester is the creative director and CEO of Kate Lester Interiors & Kate Lester HOME. With a diversely talented design team in her studio, and two retail stores in Southern California, – Kate is thrilled to be spreading her unique design vision with the masses. Her style ethos is all about creating spaces that weave classic lines, vintage finds, modern moments, and an infusion of at least “one weird thing”. Kate attended USC’s prestigious Marshall School of Business, and went on to study Design and Architecture at Otis College in Los Angeles. Her industry experience includes working for some of Hollywood’s most famous designers before launching her own firm in 2010. Thriving at the intersection of livable luxury, humor, and realism- Kate believes that the homes she designs should always be carefully crafted, thoughtfully curated, and a direct reflection of the people who inhabit them. When not designing, Kate can be found in Southern California dragging her family to flea markets, running on the beach, or hesitantly participating in a plethora of extreme sports with her extremely persuasive (and brave) husband and daughter.  Connect with Jaipur Living Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757 Jaipur Living, Nitesh Chaudhary Tue, 26 Apr 2022 06:00:08 -0000 Jaipur Living: A New Collaboration with Kate Lester full 768 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kate Lester: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On today’s sponsored show with Kate Lester Interiors, we’re taking a look at the Harman collection—a line of beautiful vintage reproduction rugs, inspired by Kate’s travels and... Today with Kate Lester: Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On today’s sponsored show with Kate Lester Interiors, we’re taking a look at the Harman collection—a line of beautiful vintage reproduction rugs, inspired by Kate’s travels and passions. In collaboration with Jaipur Living, Kate launched the Harman collection to bring the beauty of one-of-a-kind elaborate vintage rugs to modern designs for all levels of clients.   Pick it apart: [1:29] Kate shares the story of how she and Jaipur Living came together to launch the Harman collection. [7:33] Kate gives insight into what reproductive vintage pieces are and why they are desirable.  [13:03] Kate discusses her vision for the collection and how it came to fruition. [18:50] Kate tells LuAnn about the Turkish roots of the collection’s name and its symbolism for the project.  [24:03] Kate discusses the inspiration and design process used for the rugs.  [32:38] Kate shares how her background in marketing helps her stand stronger in her business.   More About Kate Lester: Kate Lester is the creative director and CEO of Kate Lester Interiors & Kate Lester HOME. With a diversely talented design team in her studio, and two retail stores in Southern California, – Kate is thrilled to be spreading her unique design vision with the masses. Her style ethos is all about creating spaces that weave classic lines, vintage finds, modern moments, and an infusion of at least “one weird thing”. Kate attended USC’s prestigious Marshall School of Business, and went on to study Design and Architecture at Otis College in Los Angeles. Her industry experience includes working for some of Hollywood’s most famous designers before launching her own firm in 2010. Thriving at the intersection of livable luxury, humor, and realism- Kate believes that the homes she designs should always be carefully crafted, thoughtfully curated, and a direct reflection of the people who inhabit them. When not designing, Kate can be found in Southern California dragging her family to flea markets, running on the beach, or hesitantly participating in a plethora of extreme sports with her extremely persuasive (and brave) husband and daughter.  Connect with Jaipur Living Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757 Jaipur Living, Nitesh Chaudhary Welcome to A Well Designed Business.  On today’s sponsored show with Kate Lester Interiors, we’re taking a look at the Harman collection—a line of beautiful vintage reproduction rugs, inspired by Kate’s travels and passions. In collaboration with Jaipur Living, Kate launched the Harman collection to bring the beauty of one-of-a-kind elaborate vintage rugs to modern designs for all levels of clients.

 

Pick it apart:

[1:29] Kate shares the story of how she and Jaipur Living came together to launch the Harman collection.

[7:33] Kate gives insight into what reproductive vintage pieces are and why they are desirable. 

[13:03] Kate discusses her vision for the collection and how it came to fruition.

[18:50] Kate tells LuAnn about the Turkish roots of the collection’s name and its symbolism for the project. 

[24:03] Kate discusses the inspiration and design process used for the rugs. 

[32:38] Kate shares how her background in marketing helps her stand stronger in her business.

 

More About Kate Lester:

Kate Lester is the creative director and CEO of Kate Lester Interiors & Kate Lester HOME. With a diversely talented design team in her studio, and two retail stores in Southern California, – Kate is thrilled to be spreading her unique design vision with the masses. Her style ethos is all about creating spaces that weave classic lines, vintage finds, modern moments, and an infusion of at least “one weird thing”. Kate attended USC’s prestigious Marshall School of Business, and went on to study Design and Architecture at Otis College in Los Angeles. Her industry experience includes working for some of Hollywood’s most famous designers before launching her own firm in 2010. Thriving at the intersection of livable luxury, humor, and realism- Kate believes that the homes she designs should always be carefully crafted, thoughtfully curated, and a direct reflection of the people who inhabit them. When not designing, Kate can be found in Southern California dragging her family to flea markets, running on the beach, or hesitantly participating in a plethora of extreme sports with her extremely persuasive (and brave) husband and daughter. 

Connect with Jaipur Living

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary

#757 Jaipur Living, Nitesh Chaudhary

]]> 3517 no 767: Power Talk Friday: Monica Froese: Weaving Digital Products into Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/767-power-talk-friday-monica-froese-weaving-digital-products-into-your-interior-design-business Today with Monica Froese: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Over the last few years, more and more designers have started finding ways to build passive income streams into their businesses, through e-design options, curated shoppable lists, and more. Today, we’re talking more about this idea—how you can create digital products to help solve problems for your clients, attract new ones, and add an income stream to your business.   Pick it apart: [1:28] Monica shares her journey, from corporate marketer to mom blogger to digital product aficionado.  [19:15] Monica gives insight into how interior designers can use digital products to solve problems for their clients.  [36:31] LuAnn and Monica discuss how to create a pillar of content to help your clients along the buyer journey, without investing all of your time into content creation.  [42:48] LuAnn shares her biggest takeaway from the conversation. LuAnn and Monica Froese's Ah-Ha Moments “I am great at teaching people how to read their numbers to get better conversions. I’ve been told by my students that I make intimidating numbers seem easy. I think it comes from my lack of emotions to numbers—they are just numbers. They tell you a story and you just have to be able to read the story that they tell.” -Monica Froese   “Here comes the courage—to say, ‘this is all great, but I don’t want to do this anymore. It isn’t filling my soul, it isn’t feeding my mission on the planet.’” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Monica Froese Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers   #736 Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 22 Apr 2022 06:00:24 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Monica Froese: Weaving Digital Products into Your Interior Design Business full 767 LuAnn Nigara Today with Monica Froese: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Over the last few years, more and more designers have started finding ways to build passive income streams into their businesses, through e-design options, curated shoppable lists, and... Today with Monica Froese: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Over the last few years, more and more designers have started finding ways to build passive income streams into their businesses, through e-design options, curated shoppable lists, and more. Today, we’re talking more about this idea—how you can create digital products to help solve problems for your clients, attract new ones, and add an income stream to your business.   Pick it apart: [1:28] Monica shares her journey, from corporate marketer to mom blogger to digital product aficionado.  [19:15] Monica gives insight into how interior designers can use digital products to solve problems for their clients.  [36:31] LuAnn and Monica discuss how to create a pillar of content to help your clients along the buyer journey, without investing all of your time into content creation.  [42:48] LuAnn shares her biggest takeaway from the conversation. LuAnn and Monica Froese's Ah-Ha Moments “I am great at teaching people how to read their numbers to get better conversions. I’ve been told by my students that I make intimidating numbers seem easy. I think it comes from my lack of emotions to numbers—they are just numbers. They tell you a story and you just have to be able to read the story that they tell.” -Monica Froese   “Here comes the courage—to say, ‘this is all great, but I don’t want to do this anymore. It isn’t filling my soul, it isn’t feeding my mission on the planet.’” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Monica Froese Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers   #736 Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today with Monica Froese:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Over the last few years, more and more designers have started finding ways to build passive income streams into their businesses, through e-design options, curated shoppable lists, and more. Today, we’re talking more about this idea—how you can create digital products to help solve problems for your clients, attract new ones, and add an income stream to your business.

 

Pick it apart:

[1:28] Monica shares her journey, from corporate marketer to mom blogger to digital product aficionado. 

[19:15] Monica gives insight into how interior designers can use digital products to solve problems for their clients. 

[36:31] LuAnn and Monica discuss how to create a pillar of content to help your clients along the buyer journey, without investing all of your time into content creation. 

[42:48] LuAnn shares her biggest takeaway from the conversation.

LuAnn and Monica Froese's Ah-Ha Moments

“I am great at teaching people how to read their numbers to get better conversions. I’ve been told by my students that I make intimidating numbers seem easy. I think it comes from my lack of emotions to numbers—they are just numbers. They tell you a story and you just have to be able to read the story that they tell.” -Monica Froese

 

“Here comes the courage—to say, ‘this is all great, but I don’t want to do this anymore. It isn’t filling my soul, it isn’t feeding my mission on the planet.’” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Monica Froese

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers

 

#736 Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 3220 no 766: Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/766-lesley-myrick-offering-interior-design-without-procurement Today with Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. E-design has certainly grown in popularity in recent years. My guest today, Lesley Myrick has gone that route as well. But she missed the connection aspect of creating designs specifically for clients. So she forged her own service, the Design Master Plan, that offers a high-level customer experience, with everything but the procurement. Today, Lesley talks about finding the pieces of business she values the most and letting everything else go. Pick it apart: [3:56] Lesley gives an overview of the Design Master Plan and why she chose to create the service.  [14:24] Lesley discusses how a conversation with a coach helped her hone in on what she valued most in her business. [20:26] LuAnn and Lesley talk about how to put an end to scope creep with Lesley’s model.  [26:07] Lesley shares the value of 3D renderings.  [37:18] Lesley reiterates why connection is so important in her business. LuAnn and Lesley Myrick’s Ah-Ha moments: “You are seasoned enough to explain the scope and the deliverables at the beginning with clarity—that’s key. Number 2, you have priced the job profitably so when you want to be generous you can. And number 3, you are delivering a fully executed plan in detail at the beginning.” -LuAnn   “That’s why connection matters so much. I need to be able to have these honest conversations. And they’re not conversations meant to scare people off or freak them out, but we need to have enough of a connection and trust where I can say these things and it’s not met with hesitation or frustration.” -Lesley   “So it’s just eliminating the middle and end phase…but the deliverable and the service and the quality of the first phase is not compromised in any way.” -LuAnn More about Lesley Myrick: Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more! Other Shows Mentioned: #722 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business   #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business   #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients   #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business Tue, 19 Apr 2022 06:00:28 -0000 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement full 766 LuAnn Nigara Today with Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. E-design has certainly grown in popularity in recent years. My guest today, Lesley Myrick has gone that route as well. But she missed the connection aspect of creating designs specifically... Today with Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. E-design has certainly grown in popularity in recent years. My guest today, Lesley Myrick has gone that route as well. But she missed the connection aspect of creating designs specifically for clients. So she forged her own service, the Design Master Plan, that offers a high-level customer experience, with everything but the procurement. Today, Lesley talks about finding the pieces of business she values the most and letting everything else go. Pick it apart: [3:56] Lesley gives an overview of the Design Master Plan and why she chose to create the service.  [14:24] Lesley discusses how a conversation with a coach helped her hone in on what she valued most in her business. [20:26] LuAnn and Lesley talk about how to put an end to scope creep with Lesley’s model.  [26:07] Lesley shares the value of 3D renderings.  [37:18] Lesley reiterates why connection is so important in her business. LuAnn and Lesley Myrick’s Ah-Ha moments: “You are seasoned enough to explain the scope and the deliverables at the beginning with clarity—that’s key. Number 2, you have priced the job profitably so when you want to be generous you can. And number 3, you are delivering a fully executed plan in detail at the beginning.” -LuAnn   “That’s why connection matters so much. I need to be able to have these honest conversations. And they’re not conversations meant to scare people off or freak them out, but we need to have enough of a connection and trust where I can say these things and it’s not met with hesitation or frustration.” -Lesley   “So it’s just eliminating the middle and end phase…but the deliverable and the service and the quality of the first phase is not compromised in any way.” -LuAnn More about Lesley Myrick: Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more! Other Shows Mentioned: #722 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business   #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business   #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients   #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again   #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business Today with Lesley Myrick:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. E-design has certainly grown in popularity in recent years. My guest today, Lesley Myrick has gone that route as well. But she missed the connection aspect of creating designs specifically for clients. So she forged her own service, the Design Master Plan, that offers a high-level customer experience, with everything but the procurement. Today, Lesley talks about finding the pieces of business she values the most and letting everything else go.

Pick it apart:

  • [3:56] Lesley gives an overview of the Design Master Plan and why she chose to create the service. 
  • [14:24] Lesley discusses how a conversation with a coach helped her hone in on what she valued most in her business.
  • [20:26] LuAnn and Lesley talk about how to put an end to scope creep with Lesley’s model. 
  • [26:07] Lesley shares the value of 3D renderings. 
  • [37:18] Lesley reiterates why connection is so important in her business.

LuAnn and Lesley Myrick’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You are seasoned enough to explain the scope and the deliverables at the beginning with clarity—that’s key. Number 2, you have priced the job profitably so when you want to be generous you can. And number 3, you are delivering a fully executed plan in detail at the beginning.” -LuAnn

 

“That’s why connection matters so much. I need to be able to have these honest conversations. And they’re not conversations meant to scare people off or freak them out, but we need to have enough of a connection and trust where I can say these things and it’s not met with hesitation or frustration.” -Lesley

 

“So it’s just eliminating the middle and end phase…but the deliverable and the service and the quality of the first phase is not compromised in any way.” -LuAnn

More about Lesley Myrick:

Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love.

Connect with Lesley Myrick

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

YouTube

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#722 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

 

#753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

 

#372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients

 

#584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

 

#37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

]]> 3786 no 765: Power Talk Friday: Connie Vanderzanden: To Generate Money, Shift the Way You Think About Money http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/765-power-talk-friday-connie-vanderzanden-to-generate-money-shift-the-way-you-think-about-money Today with Connie Vanderzand: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am talking with Connie Vanderzanden, who has developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. This interview is not only with a professional financial coach whose superpower is money, but it’s with someone who has financially hit rock bottom herself in her previous bookkeeping business, only to rise back up and take control of her finances and her money story. Now she’s here to share how she did it and to offer additional tips, support, and hope towards our finances.  If you want to change your emotions about money, feel empowered by it, and take full control of your financial situation in your business, this episode is where it’s at. Enjoy!   Pick it apart: [3:57] Connie tells us about the business she used to be in and what made her open her eyes. [7:40] Connie explains how she got into her financial situation and debt that caused her to change. [13:00] We learn the tangible obstacles that may keep us from being open to a money mindset shift.  [20:40] Connie tells us what steps to take if we are feeling like we want to give up on our business due to debt.  [27:00] Connie gives us an overview of her Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. [40:40] Connie and LuAnn give tips on when you want to hire a team   LuAnn and Connie's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of the times when I am working with people with debt, it’s acknowledging their shame and guilt around it and addressing it and forming a new relationship with it.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “Debt can be used well in a business as long as we’re intentional about how we’re going to use it and how we’re going to pay it back.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “There’s empowerment in a choice once you can see the black and white and see where you are spending it, to make better choices.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “Your safe environment should begin with your financial person.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Connie Vanderzand: Connie Vanderzanden is on a mission to help entrepreneurs live the lifestyles they desire by learning the simple steps, structure, and discipline to create and save money. With 35 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience, a variety of industry knowledge, and her own real-life business growth journey since 2001, Connie developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System, focusing on cash flow planning that creates profitable and sustainable businesses. Connie is a true Oregonian, born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she spends time with her husband of 35 years and their “fur kid”. Connect with Connie Vanderzand Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #464- Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #575- Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year  A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, is an interior designer.  When she was still a practicing designer she wanted a better way to manage her projects. She wanted clear communication with her clients and her trades. She wanted all of her invoices in one place. She wanted time tracking and she wanted to be as efficient and organized as possible— so she created Mydoma Studio. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesigned business to start your trial now. Get your time and your sanity back.   Fri, 15 Apr 2022 06:00:50 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Connie Vanderzanden: To Generate Money, Shift the Way You Think About Money full 765 LuAnn Nigara Today with Connie Vanderzand: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am talking with Connie Vanderzanden, who has developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. This interview is not only with a professional financial coach whose... Today with Connie Vanderzand: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am talking with Connie Vanderzanden, who has developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. This interview is not only with a professional financial coach whose superpower is money, but it’s with someone who has financially hit rock bottom herself in her previous bookkeeping business, only to rise back up and take control of her finances and her money story. Now she’s here to share how she did it and to offer additional tips, support, and hope towards our finances.  If you want to change your emotions about money, feel empowered by it, and take full control of your financial situation in your business, this episode is where it’s at. Enjoy!   Pick it apart: [3:57] Connie tells us about the business she used to be in and what made her open her eyes. [7:40] Connie explains how she got into her financial situation and debt that caused her to change. [13:00] We learn the tangible obstacles that may keep us from being open to a money mindset shift.  [20:40] Connie tells us what steps to take if we are feeling like we want to give up on our business due to debt.  [27:00] Connie gives us an overview of her Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. [40:40] Connie and LuAnn give tips on when you want to hire a team   LuAnn and Connie's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of the times when I am working with people with debt, it’s acknowledging their shame and guilt around it and addressing it and forming a new relationship with it.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “Debt can be used well in a business as long as we’re intentional about how we’re going to use it and how we’re going to pay it back.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “There’s empowerment in a choice once you can see the black and white and see where you are spending it, to make better choices.” - Connie Vanderzanden   “Your safe environment should begin with your financial person.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Connie Vanderzand: Connie Vanderzanden is on a mission to help entrepreneurs live the lifestyles they desire by learning the simple steps, structure, and discipline to create and save money. With 35 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience, a variety of industry knowledge, and her own real-life business growth journey since 2001, Connie developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System, focusing on cash flow planning that creates profitable and sustainable businesses. Connie is a true Oregonian, born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she spends time with her husband of 35 years and their “fur kid”. Connect with Connie Vanderzand Website  Instagram  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #464- Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #575- Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year  A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, is an interior designer.  When she was still a practicing designer she wanted a better way to manage her projects. She wanted clear communication with her clients and her trades. She wanted all of her invoices in one place. She wanted time tracking and she wanted to be as efficient and organized as possible— so she created Mydoma Studio. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesigned business to start your trial now. Get your time and your sanity back.   Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am talking with Connie Vanderzanden, who has developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. This interview is not only with a professional financial coach whose superpower is money, but it’s with someone who has financially hit rock bottom herself in her previous bookkeeping business, only to rise back up and take control of her finances and her money story. Now she’s here to share how she did it and to offer additional tips, support, and hope towards our finances. 

If you want to change your emotions about money, feel empowered by it, and take full control of your financial situation in your business, this episode is where it’s at. Enjoy!

 

Pick it apart:

  • [3:57] Connie tells us about the business she used to be in and what made her open her eyes.

    [7:40] Connie explains how she got into her financial situation and debt that caused her to change.

    [13:00] We learn the tangible obstacles that may keep us from being open to a money mindset shift. 

    [20:40] Connie tells us what steps to take if we are feeling like we want to give up on our business due to debt. 

    [27:00] Connie gives us an overview of her Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System.

    [40:40] Connie and LuAnn give tips on when you want to hire a team

 

LuAnn and Connie's Ah-Ha Moments

“A lot of the times when I am working with people with debt, it’s acknowledging their shame and guilt around it and addressing it and forming a new relationship with it.” - Connie Vanderzanden

 

“Debt can be used well in a business as long as we’re intentional about how we’re going to use it and how we’re going to pay it back.” - Connie Vanderzanden

 

“There’s empowerment in a choice once you can see the black and white and see where you are spending it, to make better choices.” - Connie Vanderzanden

 

“Your safe environment should begin with your financial person.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Connie Vanderzand:

Connie Vanderzanden is on a mission to help entrepreneurs live the lifestyles they desire by learning the simple steps, structure, and discipline to create and save money. With 35 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience, a variety of industry knowledge, and her own real-life business growth journey since 2001, Connie developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System, focusing on cash flow planning that creates profitable and sustainable businesses. Connie is a true Oregonian, born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she spends time with her husband of 35 years and their “fur kid”.

Connect with Connie Vanderzand

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#464- Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances

#575- Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year 

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, is an interior designer.  When she was still a practicing designer she wanted a better way to manage her projects. She wanted clear communication with her clients and her trades. She wanted all of her invoices in one place. She wanted time tracking and she wanted to be as efficient and organized as possible— so she created Mydoma Studio.

Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesigned business to start your trial now. Get your time and your sanity back.

 

]]> 3456 no 764: What Would Lu Do: The Contractor Ghosted Me! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/764-what-would-lu-do-the-contractor-ghosted-me Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today's question comes to us from a designer in a tough situation between a builder and a homeowner. Tune in to hear the designer's story and how I would handle the situation if I was in their shoes.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Tue, 12 Apr 2022 06:00:55 -0000 What Would Lu Do: The Contractor Ghosted Me! full 764 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today's question comes to us from a designer in a tough situation between a builder and a homeowner. Tune in to hear the designer's story and how I would handle the situation if I... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today's question comes to us from a designer in a tough situation between a builder and a homeowner. Tune in to hear the designer's story and how I would handle the situation if I was in their shoes.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today's question comes to us from a designer in a tough situation between a builder and a homeowner. Tune in to hear the designer's story and how I would handle the situation if I was in their shoes. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 1899 no 763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/763-power-talk-friday-terri-taylor-pricing-your-job-to-reflect-your-worth Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically, Terri's The Real Deal workshop.  More about The Real Deal: Get PAID What You Are Worth The industry’s premier event for serious interior designers who want to bring consistent high-profit remodeling jobs into their business Once a year Terri offers this very special training once a year that deep dives into how to run extremely profitable remodeling jobs This 3-day workshop is designed for IDBA clients but Terri is opening a few seats to the design community at large. 3 full days of training this May 4,5 & 6 Go to InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy.com to learn more Connect with Terri: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website   More about Terri Taylor: Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 548 Episode 602 Episode 662 Episode 710 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 06:00:34 -0000 763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth full 763 LuAnn Nigara Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically, Terri's The Real Deal workshop.  More about The Real Deal: Get... Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically, Terri's The Real Deal workshop.  More about The Real Deal: Get PAID What You Are Worth The industry’s premier event for serious interior designers who want to bring consistent high-profit remodeling jobs into their business Once a year Terri offers this very special training once a year that deep dives into how to run extremely profitable remodeling jobs This 3-day workshop is designed for IDBA clients but Terri is opening a few seats to the design community at large. 3 full days of training this May 4,5 & 6 Go to InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy.com to learn more Connect with Terri: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website   More about Terri Taylor: Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 548 Episode 602 Episode 662 Episode 710 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically, Terri's The Real Deal workshop. 

More about The Real Deal:

Get PAID What You Are Worth

The industry’s premier event for serious interior designers who want to bring consistent high-profit remodeling jobs into their business

Once a year Terri offers this very special training once a year that deep dives into how to run extremely profitable remodeling jobs

This 3-day workshop is designed for IDBA clients but Terri is opening a few seats to the design community at large.

3 full days of training this May 4,5 & 6

Go to InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy.com to learn more

Connect with Terri:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Website

 

More about Terri Taylor:

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 548

Episode 602

Episode 662

Episode 710

]]> 4184 no 762: Laura Martin Bovard: Do You Run Your Interior Design Business From Ego or Soul? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/762-laura-martin-bovard-do-you-run-your-interior-design-business-from-ego-or-soul Today with Laura Martin Bovard: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re talking with Laura Martin Bovard, founder of LMD Interiors and Divine Hustler. After realizing how easily triggered she would get from certain employee types or certain things that happen in business, Laura decided to train herself to work from soul, rather than ego, which is commonly how we approach things.  I think that this episode is very relatable and after listening, you will be inspired to learn how to work more from soul too! You will hear how Laura’s life has become more light, her business more successful, and how she was able to surround herself with like-minded, positive people. Laura really is a light herself and listening to her will give you hope for any challenges you may have. Pick it apart: [:55 part 1] Laura picks apart what she means by running your business from your soul, rather than your ego. [12:55 part 1] The turning point for Laura that wasn’t necessarily just one moment.  [4:15 part 2] Laura shares what she did to get into alignment with her soul. [10:13 part 2] Things Laura has done to create a happy environment in her design firm.  [15:35 part 2] Laura tells us about her side hustle, Divine Hustler. LuAnn and Laura Martin Bovard’s Ah-Ha moments: “When we love ourselves deeply, we give great service and great creativity to our clients.” - Laura Martin Bovard   “When you find that project or client that you identify with and that feels good in every way, you start to attract more of that to you.” - LuAnn Nigara    “We find who and what aligns with us and we know that when we feel lighter.” - Laura Martin Bovard More about Laura Martin Bovard: My name is Laura Martin Bovard and I am the principal of LMB Interiors. Through my two-decades strong interior design practice, I’ve been privileged to hold space for my clients at times of transformation. Over the years I’ve witnessed the magic that happens when people realize that having a beautiful home is more than creating something visually pleasing; it’s about building a home for your people: family, friends, community; while also creating a vision for and manifesting a personalized space that nourishes your soul’s growth. I am wild about transformation. I create beauty wherever I go. I cannot not do this. My greatest joy is when I create an environment that is even better than what the client had imagined for themselves. I design in every style: Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, Spanish, Mediterranean, Craftsman, and more. I bring a warm, classic, and timeless approach to the aesthetic style that matches your heart, your community, and your space. I love to be of service, giving to others through my work and via philanthropy. When I am not designing homes and restaurants, I enjoy engaging in energy-rich life experiences, including cooking and entertaining and practicing the art of self-care with focused intention. I started LMB Interiors in 2002 when I was pregnant with my first child. The one-woman firm that began in my dining room has grown to include a team of top interior designers, all of whom are talented, dynamic, soulful, and share my values of authenticity, warmth, and a livable approach to interior design. As a group, we complement one another’s contributions to the whole with a deep appreciation for our individuality while inspiring each other to thrive in a culture of collaboration and graciousness. We conceive beautiful environments where love, family, and community flourish. At LMB Interiors, we prioritize sustainable design. For us, that means working with local artisans and contractors, as well as using eco-friendly, earth-conscious materials and practices. As the company has expanded, so has my office space. Today, we are based in the elegant, urban-chic, and historic White Building in downtown Oakland. Connect with Laura Martin Bovard LMB Interiors Website  LMB Interiors Instagram  LMB Interiors Facebook  LMB Interiors Pinterest  Divine Hustler Website Divine Hustler Instagram Divine Hustler Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Tue, 05 Apr 2022 06:00:09 -0000 Laura Martin Bovard: Do You Run Your Interior Design Business From Ego or Soul? full 762 LuAnn Nigara Today with Laura Martin Bovard: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re talking with Laura Martin Bovard, founder of LMD Interiors and Divine Hustler. After realizing how easily triggered she would get from certain employee types or certain... Today with Laura Martin Bovard: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re talking with Laura Martin Bovard, founder of LMD Interiors and Divine Hustler. After realizing how easily triggered she would get from certain employee types or certain things that happen in business, Laura decided to train herself to work from soul, rather than ego, which is commonly how we approach things.  I think that this episode is very relatable and after listening, you will be inspired to learn how to work more from soul too! You will hear how Laura’s life has become more light, her business more successful, and how she was able to surround herself with like-minded, positive people. Laura really is a light herself and listening to her will give you hope for any challenges you may have. Pick it apart: [:55 part 1] Laura picks apart what she means by running your business from your soul, rather than your ego. [12:55 part 1] The turning point for Laura that wasn’t necessarily just one moment.  [4:15 part 2] Laura shares what she did to get into alignment with her soul. [10:13 part 2] Things Laura has done to create a happy environment in her design firm.  [15:35 part 2] Laura tells us about her side hustle, Divine Hustler. LuAnn and Laura Martin Bovard’s Ah-Ha moments: “When we love ourselves deeply, we give great service and great creativity to our clients.” - Laura Martin Bovard   “When you find that project or client that you identify with and that feels good in every way, you start to attract more of that to you.” - LuAnn Nigara    “We find who and what aligns with us and we know that when we feel lighter.” - Laura Martin Bovard More about Laura Martin Bovard: My name is Laura Martin Bovard and I am the principal of LMB Interiors. Through my two-decades strong interior design practice, I’ve been privileged to hold space for my clients at times of transformation. Over the years I’ve witnessed the magic that happens when people realize that having a beautiful home is more than creating something visually pleasing; it’s about building a home for your people: family, friends, community; while also creating a vision for and manifesting a personalized space that nourishes your soul’s growth. I am wild about transformation. I create beauty wherever I go. I cannot not do this. My greatest joy is when I create an environment that is even better than what the client had imagined for themselves. I design in every style: Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, Spanish, Mediterranean, Craftsman, and more. I bring a warm, classic, and timeless approach to the aesthetic style that matches your heart, your community, and your space. I love to be of service, giving to others through my work and via philanthropy. When I am not designing homes and restaurants, I enjoy engaging in energy-rich life experiences, including cooking and entertaining and practicing the art of self-care with focused intention. I started LMB Interiors in 2002 when I was pregnant with my first child. The one-woman firm that began in my dining room has grown to include a team of top interior designers, all of whom are talented, dynamic, soulful, and share my values of authenticity, warmth, and a livable approach to interior design. As a group, we complement one another’s contributions to the whole with a deep appreciation for our individuality while inspiring each other to thrive in a culture of collaboration and graciousness. We conceive beautiful environments where love, family, and community flourish. At LMB Interiors, we prioritize sustainable design. For us, that means working with local artisans and contractors, as well as using eco-friendly, earth-conscious materials and practices. As the company has expanded, so has my office space. Today, we are based in the elegant, urban-chic, and historic White Building in downtown Oakland. Connect with Laura Martin Bovard LMB Interiors Website  LMB Interiors Instagram  LMB Interiors Facebook  LMB Interiors Pinterest  Divine Hustler Website Divine Hustler Instagram Divine Hustler Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Welcome to a Well-Designed Business.

Today we’re talking with Laura Martin Bovard, founder of LMD Interiors and Divine Hustler. After realizing how easily triggered she would get from certain employee types or certain things that happen in business, Laura decided to train herself to work from soul, rather than ego, which is commonly how we approach things. 

I think that this episode is very relatable and after listening, you will be inspired to learn how to work more from soul too! You will hear how Laura’s life has become more light, her business more successful, and how she was able to surround herself with like-minded, positive people. Laura really is a light herself and listening to her will give you hope for any challenges you may have.

Pick it apart:

  • [:55 part 1] Laura picks apart what she means by running your business from your soul, rather than your ego.

    [12:55 part 1] The turning point for Laura that wasn’t necessarily just one moment. 

    [4:15 part 2] Laura shares what she did to get into alignment with her soul.

    [10:13 part 2] Things Laura has done to create a happy environment in her design firm. 

    [15:35 part 2] Laura tells us about her side hustle, Divine Hustler.

LuAnn and Laura Martin Bovard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“When we love ourselves deeply, we give great service and great creativity to our clients.” - Laura Martin Bovard

 

“When you find that project or client that you identify with and that feels good in every way, you start to attract more of that to you.” - LuAnn Nigara 

 

“We find who and what aligns with us and we know that when we feel lighter.” - Laura Martin Bovard

More about Laura Martin Bovard:

My name is Laura Martin Bovard and I am the principal of LMB Interiors. Through my two-decades strong interior design practice, I’ve been privileged to hold space for my clients at times of transformation. Over the years I’ve witnessed the magic that happens when people realize that having a beautiful home is more than creating something visually pleasing; it’s about building a home for your people: family, friends, community; while also creating a vision for and manifesting a personalized space that nourishes your soul’s growth. I am wild about transformation. I create beauty wherever I go. I cannot not do this. My greatest joy is when I create an environment that is even better than what the client had imagined for themselves. I design in every style: Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, Spanish, Mediterranean, Craftsman, and more. I bring a warm, classic, and timeless approach to the aesthetic style that matches your heart, your community, and your space. I love to be of service, giving to others through my work and via philanthropy. When I am not designing homes and restaurants, I enjoy engaging in energy-rich life experiences, including cooking and entertaining and practicing the art of self-care with focused intention. I started LMB Interiors in 2002 when I was pregnant with my first child. The one-woman firm that began in my dining room has grown to include a team of top interior designers, all of whom are talented, dynamic, soulful, and share my values of authenticity, warmth, and a livable approach to interior design. As a group, we complement one another’s contributions to the whole with a deep appreciation for our individuality while inspiring each other to thrive in a culture of collaboration and graciousness. We conceive beautiful environments where love, family, and community flourish. At LMB Interiors, we prioritize sustainable design. For us, that means working with local artisans and contractors, as well as using eco-friendly, earth-conscious materials and practices. As the company has expanded, so has my office space. Today, we are based in the elegant, urban-chic, and historic White Building in downtown Oakland.

Connect with Laura Martin Bovard

LMB Interiors Website 

LMB Interiors Instagram 

LMB Interiors Facebook 

LMB Interiors Pinterest 

Divine Hustler Website

Divine Hustler Instagram

Divine Hustler Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

]]> 3437 no 761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/761-window-treatment-friday-pricing-window-treatments-how-to-ballpark-the-numbers-on-the-fly Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 2 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.  Vita and I understand the challenges with pricing, that it isn’t cutthroat and that there are so many variables that go into a window treatment. Tune in to learn the general pricing guidelines for a designer, and also how you can uplevel your conversations with your client by knowing how to ballpark the price within minutes of the consultation. Pick It Apart:  [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours.  [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them.  [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.     Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “When someone in your world understands that what you sell a product affects the financial health and viability of your business, that's what creates a sustainable business.” - LuAnn Nigara   “The highest chance of you getting an order is if you can ball park the customer’s investment together on that first visit.” - Vita Vygovska    “You are accustomed as the designer and have the ability to know the numbers for what is “good, better, and best” and accurately come up with investment ranges on the discovery call before running in circles.” -LuAnn Nigara     When you show a pictorial presentation to a client of different budgets, it’s no longer just about the money. It’s about what they like, what the room will look like and how they will feel in that room.” - Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com. Other Shows Mentioned: #548- Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees and Budgets #741- Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup #607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Fri, 01 Apr 2022 06:00:36 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly full 761 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 2 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 2 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.  Vita and I understand the challenges with pricing, that it isn’t cutthroat and that there are so many variables that go into a window treatment. Tune in to learn the general pricing guidelines for a designer, and also how you can uplevel your conversations with your client by knowing how to ballpark the price within minutes of the consultation. Pick It Apart:  [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours.  [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them.  [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.     Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “When someone in your world understands that what you sell a product affects the financial health and viability of your business, that's what creates a sustainable business.” - LuAnn Nigara   “The highest chance of you getting an order is if you can ball park the customer’s investment together on that first visit.” - Vita Vygovska    “You are accustomed as the designer and have the ability to know the numbers for what is “good, better, and best” and accurately come up with investment ranges on the discovery call before running in circles.” -LuAnn Nigara     When you show a pictorial presentation to a client of different budgets, it’s no longer just about the money. It’s about what they like, what the room will look like and how they will feel in that room.” - Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com. Other Shows Mentioned: #548- Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees and Budgets #741- Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup #607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines Today with Vita Vygovska

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 2 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. 

Vita and I understand the challenges with pricing, that it isn’t cutthroat and that there are so many variables that go into a window treatment. Tune in to learn the general pricing guidelines for a designer, and also how you can uplevel your conversations with your client by knowing how to ballpark the price within minutes of the consultation.

Pick It Apart: 

  • [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas.
  • [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours. 
  • [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation.
  • [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them. 
  • [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.
  •  

 

Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska:

“When someone in your world understands that what you sell a product affects the financial health and viability of your business, that's what creates a sustainable business.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“The highest chance of you getting an order is if you can ball park the customer’s investment together on that first visit.” - Vita Vygovska 

 

“You are accustomed as the designer and have the ability to know the numbers for what is “good, better, and best” and accurately come up with investment ranges on the discovery call before running in circles.” -LuAnn Nigara  

 

When you show a pictorial presentation to a client of different budgets, it’s no longer just about the money. It’s about what they like, what the room will look like and how they will feel in that room.” - Vita Vygovska

More About Vita Vygovska

Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives.

Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#548- Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees and Budgets

#741- Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup

#607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

]]> 3422 no 760: Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/760-jessica-harling-the-7-step-sales-process-for-interior-designers-and-window-treatment-professionals Today with Jessica Harling: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about my favorite thing—sales. And I can think of nobody better to help me talk through sales than my colleague, Jessica Harling. She is walking us through the proven 7-Step Sales Process from Exciting Windows—the same process that she covers in her course at LuAnn University. You’re going to get a high-level look at every step along the way, its purpose, and how it folds into a successful sale. Pick it apart: [10:50] LuAnn and Jessica dive into the inquiry call and how it plays into the overall sale.  [19:16] Jessica highlights how the preparation for the appointment lays the foundation for success. [21:01] Jessica and Lu discuss the meet and greet and home tour, and why taking control is crucial. [34:16] Jessica shares the importance of the recap and review to make sure you and the client are on the same page.  [44:59] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the eyeball estimate and how to leverage the trial close to move the sale forward. LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments: “Doing all these seven steps ahead of time, before you start to show samples, get into the design details, or even get into detailed quoting, all of these seven steps upfront are what set up the next section for success.” -Jessica Harling   “That is the Achilles’ heel of an undisciplined salesperson—to get sucked into the rabbit holes and the windy roads of whatever someone wants to talk to instead of leading the conversation.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Jessica Harling: Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level. Connect with Jessica Harling Website  LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Behind the Design Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Tue, 29 Mar 2022 06:00:07 -0000 Jessica Harling: The 7 Step Sales Process for Interior Designers and Window Treatment Professionals full 760 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Harling: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about my favorite thing—sales. And I can think of nobody better to help me talk through sales than my colleague, Jessica Harling. She is walking us through the... Today with Jessica Harling: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about my favorite thing—sales. And I can think of nobody better to help me talk through sales than my colleague, Jessica Harling. She is walking us through the proven 7-Step Sales Process from Exciting Windows—the same process that she covers in her course at LuAnn University. You’re going to get a high-level look at every step along the way, its purpose, and how it folds into a successful sale. Pick it apart: [10:50] LuAnn and Jessica dive into the inquiry call and how it plays into the overall sale.  [19:16] Jessica highlights how the preparation for the appointment lays the foundation for success. [21:01] Jessica and Lu discuss the meet and greet and home tour, and why taking control is crucial. [34:16] Jessica shares the importance of the recap and review to make sure you and the client are on the same page.  [44:59] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the eyeball estimate and how to leverage the trial close to move the sale forward. LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments: “Doing all these seven steps ahead of time, before you start to show samples, get into the design details, or even get into detailed quoting, all of these seven steps upfront are what set up the next section for success.” -Jessica Harling   “That is the Achilles’ heel of an undisciplined salesperson—to get sucked into the rabbit holes and the windy roads of whatever someone wants to talk to instead of leading the conversation.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Jessica Harling: Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level. Connect with Jessica Harling Website  LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Behind the Design Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about my favorite thing—sales. And I can think of nobody better to help me talk through sales than my colleague, Jessica Harling. She is walking us through the proven 7-Step Sales Process from Exciting Windows—the same process that she covers in her course at LuAnn University. You’re going to get a high-level look at every step along the way, its purpose, and how it folds into a successful sale.

Pick it apart:

  • [10:50] LuAnn and Jessica dive into the inquiry call and how it plays into the overall sale. 
  • [19:16] Jessica highlights how the preparation for the appointment lays the foundation for success.
  • [21:01] Jessica and Lu discuss the meet and greet and home tour, and why taking control is crucial.
  • [34:16] Jessica shares the importance of the recap and review to make sure you and the client are on the same page. 
  • [44:59] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the eyeball estimate and how to leverage the trial close to move the sale forward.

LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Doing all these seven steps ahead of time, before you start to show samples, get into the design details, or even get into detailed quoting, all of these seven steps upfront are what set up the next section for success.” -Jessica Harling

 

“That is the Achilles’ heel of an undisciplined salesperson—to get sucked into the rabbit holes and the windy roads of whatever someone wants to talk to instead of leading the conversation.” -LuAnn Nigara

More about Jessica Harling:

Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level.

Connect with Jessica Harling

Website 

LinkedIn

Facebook

Twitter

Behind the Design Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

]]> 4807 no 759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/759-rachael-bozsik-helping-you-gain-less-clients-with-higher-budget-projects Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today we have Rachael Bozsik, International Keynote Speaker and top elite branding coach. This is the second time we have had Rachael on and I cannot wait to share with you what she has been up to since last on the show.  In addition to working with myself, Rachael has worked with many leaders in the industry including Sandra Funk, Michele Williams, and many up-and-comers. I encourage you to listen to find out how you can work with Rachael, and also how she has used her marketing strategy of the 4 P’s (positioning, press, paid speaking, and partnerships) to gain luxury clients and be seen as the “go-to” in your industry.    Pick it apart: [15:45] Rachael shares with us her process when she starts a new Luxe Day client.  [23:47] Rachael explains using partnerships as a “pipeline filler” rather than a public partnership. [32:00] Rachael tells us about the application and process to work with her.  [43:55] Another successful example of a past client, Emily, that listeners can relate to.   [1:04:00]: Information on how to work with Rachael, how she works with her clients, and pricing.  More about Rachael Bozsik Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives. Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy #20- Arianne Bellizaire: Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? #137- Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded Her 10-Year-Old Firm #180- PTF: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You #190- Kathy Kuo: How Kathy Kuo Home, The Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm #395- PTF: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist For Your Interior Design Business #520- PTF: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard Is Here! #568- Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM.” #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #683- Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design #709- Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account. Fri, 25 Mar 2022 06:00:29 -0000 759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing full 759 LuAnn Nigara Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today we have Rachael Bozsik, International Keynote Speaker and top elite branding coach. This is the second time we have had Rachael on and I cannot wait to share with you what she has... Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today we have Rachael Bozsik, International Keynote Speaker and top elite branding coach. This is the second time we have had Rachael on and I cannot wait to share with you what she has been up to since last on the show.  In addition to working with myself, Rachael has worked with many leaders in the industry including Sandra Funk, Michele Williams, and many up-and-comers. I encourage you to listen to find out how you can work with Rachael, and also how she has used her marketing strategy of the 4 P’s (positioning, press, paid speaking, and partnerships) to gain luxury clients and be seen as the “go-to” in your industry.    Pick it apart: [15:45] Rachael shares with us her process when she starts a new Luxe Day client.  [23:47] Rachael explains using partnerships as a “pipeline filler” rather than a public partnership. [32:00] Rachael tells us about the application and process to work with her.  [43:55] Another successful example of a past client, Emily, that listeners can relate to.   [1:04:00]: Information on how to work with Rachael, how she works with her clients, and pricing.  More about Rachael Bozsik Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives. Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy #20- Arianne Bellizaire: Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? #137- Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded Her 10-Year-Old Firm #180- PTF: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You #190- Kathy Kuo: How Kathy Kuo Home, The Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm #395- PTF: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist For Your Interior Design Business #520- PTF: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard Is Here! #568- Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM.” #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #683- Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design #709- Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account. In addition to working with myself, Rachael has worked with many leaders in the industry including Sandra Funk, Michele Williams, and many up-and-comers. I encourage you to listen to find out how you can work with Rachael, and also how she has used her marketing strategy of the 4 P’s (positioning, press, paid speaking, and partnerships) to gain luxury clients and be seen as the “go-to” in your industry. 

 

Pick it apart:

[15:45] Rachael shares with us her process when she starts a new Luxe Day client. 

[23:47] Rachael explains using partnerships as a “pipeline filler” rather than a public partnership.

[32:00] Rachael tells us about the application and process to work with her. 

[43:55] Another successful example of a past client, Emily, that listeners can relate to.  

[1:04:00]: Information on how to work with Rachael, how she works with her clients, and pricing. 

More about Rachael Bozsik

Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field.

It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.

Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc.

Connect with Rachael Bozsik

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

#20- Arianne Bellizaire: Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform?

#137- Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management

#145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded Her 10-Year-Old Firm

#180- PTF: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You

#190- Kathy Kuo: How Kathy Kuo Home, The Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm

#395- PTF: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist For Your Interior Design Business

#520- PTF: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard Is Here!

#568- Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM.”

#651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

#683- Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design

#709- Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

]]> 4064 no 758: Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/758-sallie-lord-collaboration-over-competition-in-the-interior-design-community Today with Sallie Lord: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have said for some time that our business is only as strong as the relationships we build. Our relationships with vendors, partners, clients, and employees all play a hand in our success. But the relationships we have with fellow business owners, fellow designers or fellow window treatment professionals, can be extremely valuable as well. My guest today, Sallie Lord, knows that other professionals don’t have to be your competition. In fact, they can be collaborative partners and help empower your business. Pick it apart: [2:48] Sallie shares the story of how she and a group of local designers created a collaborative pod that helps each other’s businesses grow.  [7:37] LuAnn and Sallie discuss how crucial community relationships can be to your business. [19:36] Sallie and LuAnn talk about how to create collaborative relationships with fellow designers.  [23:47] Sallie shares the way she builds the sense of collaboration within her own firm as well.  [33:58] Sallie discusses the client experience GreyHunt Interiors is committed to providing. LuAnn and Sallie Lord’s Ah-Ha moments: “It is so healthy for us, for our businesses, and for our relationships. I love the opportunity for us to help one another. We all bring something to the table.” -Sallie Lord   “These are your friends that you lean on, but there is also a practical level. When you have a group that you know and trust, you can actually say, “How do you manage an hourly project? How do you incentivize your project manager to work in a timely manner…” You get to ask the important questions, not just have wine and massages. You get to grow your business acumen through these other people.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Is it really successful to climb to the top by yourself? Is that really the way the journey is supposed to go? That’s not the way it’s meant to be. We’re supposed to be in a community.” -Sallie Lord More about Sallie Lord: Sallie Lord is the award-winning designer and founder behind GreyHunt Interiors. A graduate of Marymount University, Sallie has worked in the interiors business for over two decades. She has amassed a loyal following of almost 75K people on her social media channels with a passion for design and an eye for up-and-coming trends.   This native Virginian spends her time between her home in Northern Virginia — where her business is flourishing and her new home in Indianapolis, which she shares with her husband, and two boys.   You can catch Sallie daily on her Instagram page, where she shares her latest designs, interior tips, and everything and anything that inspires her, including uplifting women in business! Connect with Sallie Lord: Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #484 Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. Their website allows you to quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Their advanced color search even lets you create the exact custom color you’re looking for, making it easier than ever to find the results you need. Visit kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order. Tue, 22 Mar 2022 06:00:01 -0000 Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community full 758 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sallie Lord: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have said for some time that our business is only as strong as the relationships we build. Our relationships with vendors, partners, clients, and employees all play a hand in our success.... Today with Sallie Lord: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have said for some time that our business is only as strong as the relationships we build. Our relationships with vendors, partners, clients, and employees all play a hand in our success. But the relationships we have with fellow business owners, fellow designers or fellow window treatment professionals, can be extremely valuable as well. My guest today, Sallie Lord, knows that other professionals don’t have to be your competition. In fact, they can be collaborative partners and help empower your business. Pick it apart: [2:48] Sallie shares the story of how she and a group of local designers created a collaborative pod that helps each other’s businesses grow.  [7:37] LuAnn and Sallie discuss how crucial community relationships can be to your business. [19:36] Sallie and LuAnn talk about how to create collaborative relationships with fellow designers.  [23:47] Sallie shares the way she builds the sense of collaboration within her own firm as well.  [33:58] Sallie discusses the client experience GreyHunt Interiors is committed to providing. LuAnn and Sallie Lord’s Ah-Ha moments: “It is so healthy for us, for our businesses, and for our relationships. I love the opportunity for us to help one another. We all bring something to the table.” -Sallie Lord   “These are your friends that you lean on, but there is also a practical level. When you have a group that you know and trust, you can actually say, “How do you manage an hourly project? How do you incentivize your project manager to work in a timely manner…” You get to ask the important questions, not just have wine and massages. You get to grow your business acumen through these other people.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Is it really successful to climb to the top by yourself? Is that really the way the journey is supposed to go? That’s not the way it’s meant to be. We’re supposed to be in a community.” -Sallie Lord More about Sallie Lord: Sallie Lord is the award-winning designer and founder behind GreyHunt Interiors. A graduate of Marymount University, Sallie has worked in the interiors business for over two decades. She has amassed a loyal following of almost 75K people on her social media channels with a passion for design and an eye for up-and-coming trends.   This native Virginian spends her time between her home in Northern Virginia — where her business is flourishing and her new home in Indianapolis, which she shares with her husband, and two boys.   You can catch Sallie daily on her Instagram page, where she shares her latest designs, interior tips, and everything and anything that inspires her, including uplifting women in business! Connect with Sallie Lord: Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #484 Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. Their website allows you to quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Their advanced color search even lets you create the exact custom color you’re looking for, making it easier than ever to find the results you need. Visit kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have said for some time that our business is only as strong as the relationships we build. Our relationships with vendors, partners, clients, and employees all play a hand in our success. But the relationships we have with fellow business owners, fellow designers or fellow window treatment professionals, can be extremely valuable as well. My guest today, Sallie Lord, knows that other professionals don’t have to be your competition. In fact, they can be collaborative partners and help empower your business.

Pick it apart:

[2:48] Sallie shares the story of how she and a group of local designers created a collaborative pod that helps each other’s businesses grow. 

[7:37] LuAnn and Sallie discuss how crucial community relationships can be to your business.

[19:36] Sallie and LuAnn talk about how to create collaborative relationships with fellow designers. 

[23:47] Sallie shares the way she builds the sense of collaboration within her own firm as well. 

[33:58] Sallie discusses the client experience GreyHunt Interiors is committed to providing.

LuAnn and Sallie Lord’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It is so healthy for us, for our businesses, and for our relationships. I love the opportunity for us to help one another. We all bring something to the table.” -Sallie Lord

 

“These are your friends that you lean on, but there is also a practical level. When you have a group that you know and trust, you can actually say, “How do you manage an hourly project? How do you incentivize your project manager to work in a timely manner…” You get to ask the important questions, not just have wine and massages. You get to grow your business acumen through these other people.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“Is it really successful to climb to the top by yourself? Is that really the way the journey is supposed to go? That’s not the way it’s meant to be. We’re supposed to be in a community.” -Sallie Lord

More about Sallie Lord:

Sallie Lord is the award-winning designer and founder behind GreyHunt Interiors. A graduate of Marymount University, Sallie has worked in the interiors business for over two decades. She has amassed a loyal following of almost 75K people on her social media channels with a passion for design and an eye for up-and-coming trends.

 

This native Virginian spends her time between her home in Northern Virginia — where her business is flourishing and her new home in Indianapolis, which she shares with her husband, and two boys.

 

You can catch Sallie daily on her Instagram page, where she shares her latest designs, interior tips, and everything and anything that inspires her, including uplifting women in business!

Connect with Sallie Lord:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#484 Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. Their website allows you to quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Their advanced color search even lets you create the exact custom color you’re looking for, making it easier than ever to find the results you need. Visit kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order.

]]> 4055 no 757: Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/757-power-talk-friday-nitesh-chaudhary-jaipur-living-the-manchaha-initiative Today with Nitesh Chaudhary: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today, we bring you a sponsored show with Jaipur Living. Jaipur is not your average hand-woven rug company. They have a long-standing commitment to empowering their artisans, ensuring ethical and fair practices, and sustainability. Their latest initiative—the Manchaha was built on a history of those commitments. The story behind these rugs will move you. To learn more, go to Jaipurliving.com/luann   Pick it apart: [2:55] Nitesh shares the origins of the Manchaha collection and the way it has turned weavers into artists.  [10:45] Nitesh explains the power the program has brought into the lives of the artisans.  [22:05] Nitesh dives into how artisans are chosen and the process for making the Manchaha rugs.  [31:40] Nitesh and LuAnn discuss the ripple effect Jaipur is having on the lives of women in India.  [37:14] Nitesh explains why investing in a Manchaha rug is worth it. More About Nitesh Chaudhary: Nitesh Chaudhary is the youngest child of Chaudhary Family of Brands founder N.K. Chaudhary. As director of innovation, supply chain & innovation, Nitesh brings over seven years of cross-functional experience in strategically building start-ups and growing companies to Jaipur Living, where he works alongside sisters Asha (CEO) and Archana (COO). Nitesh has a strong passion for identifying and resolving business challenges using technology and human capital to reach business goals. Connect with Jaipur Living Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary     Fri, 18 Mar 2022 06:00:35 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nitesh Chaudhary: Jaipur Living: The Manchaha Initiative full 757 LuAnn Nigara Today with Nitesh Chaudhary: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today, we bring you a sponsored show with Jaipur Living. Jaipur is not your average hand-woven rug company. They have a long-standing commitment to empowering their artisans,... Today with Nitesh Chaudhary: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today, we bring you a sponsored show with Jaipur Living. Jaipur is not your average hand-woven rug company. They have a long-standing commitment to empowering their artisans, ensuring ethical and fair practices, and sustainability. Their latest initiative—the Manchaha was built on a history of those commitments. The story behind these rugs will move you. To learn more, go to Jaipurliving.com/luann   Pick it apart: [2:55] Nitesh shares the origins of the Manchaha collection and the way it has turned weavers into artists.  [10:45] Nitesh explains the power the program has brought into the lives of the artisans.  [22:05] Nitesh dives into how artisans are chosen and the process for making the Manchaha rugs.  [31:40] Nitesh and LuAnn discuss the ripple effect Jaipur is having on the lives of women in India.  [37:14] Nitesh explains why investing in a Manchaha rug is worth it. More About Nitesh Chaudhary: Nitesh Chaudhary is the youngest child of Chaudhary Family of Brands founder N.K. Chaudhary. As director of innovation, supply chain & innovation, Nitesh brings over seven years of cross-functional experience in strategically building start-ups and growing companies to Jaipur Living, where he works alongside sisters Asha (CEO) and Archana (COO). Nitesh has a strong passion for identifying and resolving business challenges using technology and human capital to reach business goals. Connect with Jaipur Living Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary     Today with Nitesh Chaudhary:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today, we bring you a sponsored show with Jaipur Living. Jaipur is not your average hand-woven rug company. They have a long-standing commitment to empowering their artisans, ensuring ethical and fair practices, and sustainability. Their latest initiative—the Manchaha was built on a history of those commitments. The story behind these rugs will move you. To learn more, go to Jaipurliving.com/luann

 

Pick it apart:

    • [2:55] Nitesh shares the origins of the Manchaha collection and the way it has turned weavers into artists. 
    • [10:45] Nitesh explains the power the program has brought into the lives of the artisans. 
    • [22:05] Nitesh dives into how artisans are chosen and the process for making the Manchaha rugs. 
    • [31:40] Nitesh and LuAnn discuss the ripple effect Jaipur is having on the lives of women in India. 
    • [37:14] Nitesh explains why investing in a Manchaha rug is worth it.

More About Nitesh Chaudhary:

Nitesh Chaudhary is the youngest child of Chaudhary Family of Brands founder N.K. Chaudhary. As director of innovation, supply chain & innovation, Nitesh brings over seven years of cross-functional experience in strategically building start-ups and growing companies to Jaipur Living, where he works alongside sisters Asha (CEO) and Archana (COO). Nitesh has a strong passion for identifying and resolving business challenges using technology and human capital to reach business goals.

Connect with Jaipur Living

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary

 

 

]]> 3208 no 756: Claudia Ricciardone: Her Journey from Hobby to Interior Design Business. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/756-claudia-ricciardone-her-journey-from-hobby-to-interior-design-business Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen.  Pick it apart: [6:10] Claudia begins her discussion about some of the pain points she experienced while starting her interior design business. [16:44] Claudia tells us how she transitioned from hobby to business. [23:40] Claudia needed a team and she tells us who she knew she needed to hire first.  [33:15] Advice on making an investment for your business. [51:00] LuAnn and Claudia discuss having those, sometimes hard, discussions about money with potential clients. LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments: “When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone   “In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” - LuAnn Nigara.    “Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” - Claudia Ricciardone.   “Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” - LuAnn Nigara   “When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” - Claudia Ricciardone More about Claudia Ricciardone: Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine. Connect with Claudia Ricciardone: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #58- Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees #752- PTF- Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success   Tue, 15 Mar 2022 06:00:35 -0000 Claudia Ricciardone: Her Journey from Hobby to Interior Design Business. full 756 LuAnn Nigara Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming... Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen.  Pick it apart: [6:10] Claudia begins her discussion about some of the pain points she experienced while starting her interior design business. [16:44] Claudia tells us how she transitioned from hobby to business. [23:40] Claudia needed a team and she tells us who she knew she needed to hire first.  [33:15] Advice on making an investment for your business. [51:00] LuAnn and Claudia discuss having those, sometimes hard, discussions about money with potential clients. LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments: “When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone   “In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” - LuAnn Nigara.    “Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” - Claudia Ricciardone.   “Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” - LuAnn Nigara   “When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” - Claudia Ricciardone More about Claudia Ricciardone: Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design.  Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine. Connect with Claudia Ricciardone: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #58- Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees #752- PTF- Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success   Today with Claudia Ricciardone:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design. 

Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business.  I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen. 

Pick it apart:

  • [6:10] Claudia begins her discussion about some of the pain points she experienced while starting her interior design business.

    [16:44] Claudia tells us how she transitioned from hobby to business.

    [23:40] Claudia needed a team and she tells us who she knew she needed to hire first. 

    [33:15] Advice on making an investment for your business.

    [51:00] LuAnn and Claudia discuss having those, sometimes hard, discussions about money with potential clients.

LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments:

“When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone

 

“In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” - LuAnn Nigara. 

 

“Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” - Claudia Ricciardone.

 

“Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” - Claudia Ricciardone

More about Claudia Ricciardone:

Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design. 

Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine.

Connect with Claudia Ricciardone:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook

#58- Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees

#752- PTF- Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success

 

]]> 3908 no 755: Power Talk Friday: Liz Beaman Delman: Fine Art is an Asset, Not an Accessory http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/755-power-talk-friday-liz-beaman-delman-fine-art-is-an-asset-not-an-accessory Today with Liz Beaman Delman: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. I love today’s conversation because we are diving a little into the art world. How many of us designers have intimidation or lack of knowledge into having that conversation with our clients to incorporate fine art into their project? I see you in the back with your hand raised. Well we're in luck because today we are chatting with Liz Beaman Delman, founder of Above the Sofa, an art advisory firm. Liz aims to bring confidence to designers to have those “artsy” conversations with their clients and to incorporate fine art into their projects. You know that we love anything that will help a designer be more profitable. Enjoy!    Pick it apart: [1:36] Liz explains her reasoning behind wanting to empower designers to bring more fine art into their projects.  [8:48] Liz tells us the process in which she works with the designer, whether they have some experience working with the art world or have zero experience. [33:05] More business benefits for designers who open their clients’ eyes to fine art.   [37:30] Liz’s experience working with showhouses and that process. More About Liz Beaman Delman: Liz Beaman Delman is a twenty-year veteran of the art world and is a foremost expert in American Art. Liz honed her expertise during two decades as a Specialist at Sotheby’s and Christie’s, where she was a Senior Vice President and ran the American Art department.  Art is in Liz’s DNA. Her paternal grandfather was an abstract artist and the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Her maternal grandparents began collecting then avant-garde Contemporary Art in the 1970s and continued to do so until their passing. Inspired by the creativity of her grandfather’s work and the beautiful way in which her grandparents chose to live with their collection, Liz began to pursue a career in the arts beginning in high school. Twenty-five years later Liz still cites their influence as the guiding principle behind her work.   In addition to founding Above the Sofa, Liz runs an art advisory firm, Beaman Delman Fine Arts, focused on secondary market sales and all aspects of art advisory and collection management. Liz splits her time between New York and Los Angeles and has held volunteer leadership roles in both cities.  She has been on the board of the Archives of American Art, a member of the Director’s Council at the Guggenheim, a member of the Director’s Circle at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, and three affinity groups at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art including the Collector’s Committee.  Liz is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Connect with Liz Beaman Delman Above the Sofa Website  Above the Sofa Instagram  BD Fine Arts Website  BD Fine Arts Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #413- Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.   Fri, 11 Mar 2022 07:00:42 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Liz Beaman Delman: Fine Art is an Asset, Not an Accessory full 755 LuAnn Nigara Today with Liz Beaman Delman: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. I love today’s conversation because we are diving a little into the art world. How many of us designers have intimidation or lack of knowledge into having that conversation with our... Today with Liz Beaman Delman: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. I love today’s conversation because we are diving a little into the art world. How many of us designers have intimidation or lack of knowledge into having that conversation with our clients to incorporate fine art into their project? I see you in the back with your hand raised. Well we're in luck because today we are chatting with Liz Beaman Delman, founder of Above the Sofa, an art advisory firm. Liz aims to bring confidence to designers to have those “artsy” conversations with their clients and to incorporate fine art into their projects. You know that we love anything that will help a designer be more profitable. Enjoy!    Pick it apart: [1:36] Liz explains her reasoning behind wanting to empower designers to bring more fine art into their projects.  [8:48] Liz tells us the process in which she works with the designer, whether they have some experience working with the art world or have zero experience. [33:05] More business benefits for designers who open their clients’ eyes to fine art.   [37:30] Liz’s experience working with showhouses and that process. More About Liz Beaman Delman: Liz Beaman Delman is a twenty-year veteran of the art world and is a foremost expert in American Art. Liz honed her expertise during two decades as a Specialist at Sotheby’s and Christie’s, where she was a Senior Vice President and ran the American Art department.  Art is in Liz’s DNA. Her paternal grandfather was an abstract artist and the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Her maternal grandparents began collecting then avant-garde Contemporary Art in the 1970s and continued to do so until their passing. Inspired by the creativity of her grandfather’s work and the beautiful way in which her grandparents chose to live with their collection, Liz began to pursue a career in the arts beginning in high school. Twenty-five years later Liz still cites their influence as the guiding principle behind her work.   In addition to founding Above the Sofa, Liz runs an art advisory firm, Beaman Delman Fine Arts, focused on secondary market sales and all aspects of art advisory and collection management. Liz splits her time between New York and Los Angeles and has held volunteer leadership roles in both cities.  She has been on the board of the Archives of American Art, a member of the Director’s Council at the Guggenheim, a member of the Director’s Circle at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, and three affinity groups at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art including the Collector’s Committee.  Liz is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Connect with Liz Beaman Delman Above the Sofa Website  Above the Sofa Instagram  BD Fine Arts Website  BD Fine Arts Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #413- Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.   Today with Liz Beaman Delman:

Welcome to A Well Designed Business. I love today’s conversation because we are diving a little into the art world. How many of us designers have intimidation or lack of knowledge into having that conversation with our clients to incorporate fine art into their project? I see you in the back with your hand raised. Well we're in luck because today we are chatting with Liz Beaman Delman, founder of Above the Sofa, an art advisory firm. Liz aims to bring confidence to designers to have those “artsy” conversations with their clients and to incorporate fine art into their projects. You know that we love anything that will help a designer be more profitable. Enjoy! 

 

Pick it apart:

  • [1:36] Liz explains her reasoning behind wanting to empower designers to bring more fine art into their projects. 

    [8:48] Liz tells us the process in which she works with the designer, whether they have some experience working with the art world or have zero experience.

    [33:05] More business benefits for designers who open their clients’ eyes to fine art.  

    [37:30] Liz’s experience working with showhouses and that process.

More About Liz Beaman Delman:

Liz Beaman Delman is a twenty-year veteran of the art world and is a foremost expert in American Art. Liz honed her expertise during two decades as a Specialist at Sotheby’s and Christie’s, where she was a Senior Vice President and ran the American Art department. 

Art is in Liz’s DNA. Her paternal grandfather was an abstract artist and the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Her maternal grandparents began collecting then avant-garde Contemporary Art in the 1970s and continued to do so until their passing. Inspired by the creativity of her grandfather’s work and the beautiful way in which her grandparents chose to live with their collection, Liz began to pursue a career in the arts beginning in high school. Twenty-five years later Liz still cites their influence as the guiding principle behind her work.

 

In addition to founding Above the Sofa, Liz runs an art advisory firm, Beaman Delman Fine Arts, focused on secondary market sales and all aspects of art advisory and collection management. Liz splits her time between New York and Los Angeles and has held volunteer leadership roles in both cities.  She has been on the board of the Archives of American Art, a member of the Director’s Council at the Guggenheim, a member of the Director’s Circle at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, and three affinity groups at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art including the Collector’s Committee.  Liz is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Connect with Liz Beaman Delman

Above the Sofa Website 

Above the Sofa Instagram 

BD Fine Arts Website 

BD Fine Arts Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#413- Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

 

]]> 2620 no 754: Power Talk Friday Tour: Exclusively for firms with 2 Million + Gross Revenue. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/754-power-talk-friday-tour-exclusively-for-firms-with-2-million-gross-revenue Today on A Well-Designed Business: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Managing our businesses over the last 2 years of the pandemic has been hard. It has been especially hard on those of you who own and manage bigger businesses. This revenue growth is absolutely something to be grateful for, but it has also been extremely challenging.  So today I am talking to you about The Power Talk Friday Tour next month at High Point Market. If your business finished last year with gross revenues between 2 million and 5 million or between 5 million and 10 million, this PTF Tour is for you. I know you need to be in a room with other leaders, other CEO’s who are going through what you are going through. Listen to today's show for all the details and I hope to see you there. Save your seat here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Thu, 10 Mar 2022 07:00:14 -0000 Power Talk Friday Tour: Exclusively for firms with 2 Million + Gross Revenue. full 754 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Managing our businesses over the last 2 years of the pandemic has been hard. It has been especially hard on those of you who own and manage bigger businesses. This revenue... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Managing our businesses over the last 2 years of the pandemic has been hard. It has been especially hard on those of you who own and manage bigger businesses. This revenue growth is absolutely something to be grateful for, but it has also been extremely challenging.  So today I am talking to you about The Power Talk Friday Tour next month at High Point Market. If your business finished last year with gross revenues between 2 million and 5 million or between 5 million and 10 million, this PTF Tour is for you. I know you need to be in a room with other leaders, other CEO’s who are going through what you are going through. Listen to today's show for all the details and I hope to see you there. Save your seat here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Managing our businesses over the last 2 years of the pandemic has been hard. It has been especially hard on those of you who own and manage bigger businesses. This revenue growth is absolutely something to be grateful for, but it has also been extremely challenging. 

So today I am talking to you about The Power Talk Friday Tour next month at High Point Market. If your business finished last year with gross revenues between 2 million and 5 million or between 5 million and 10 million, this PTF Tour is for you.

I know you need to be in a room with other leaders, other CEO’s who are going through what you are going through. Listen to today's show for all the details and I hope to see you there.

Save your seat here!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 757 no 753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/753-sandra-funk-how-to-grow-a-thriving-luxury-interior-design-business Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share insight on growing not just a luxury design firm - but a thriving luxury design firm. She'll share everything from the why, to the how, and everything in between. I am thrilled that Sandra will also be sharing the latest news about her business program, the "Interior Design Standard".  I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Registration opens March 23rd! Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses: “A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide!  The Interior Design Standard is incredible.  I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!” - Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors    "The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.”  - Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors  Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together. What We Talked About: Furniture Lighting & Decor Article Other Episodes Mentioned: EPISODE 660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” EPISODE 585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems EPISODE 520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! EPISODE 145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm EPISODE 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy   Tue, 08 Mar 2022 07:00:45 -0000 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business full 753 LuAnn Nigara Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share insight on growing not just a luxury design firm - but a thriving luxury design firm. She'll... Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share insight on growing not just a luxury design firm - but a thriving luxury design firm. She'll share everything from the why, to the how, and everything in between. I am thrilled that Sandra will also be sharing the latest news about her business program, the "Interior Design Standard".  I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Registration opens March 23rd! Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses: “A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide!  The Interior Design Standard is incredible.  I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!” - Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors    "The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.”  - Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors  Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together. What We Talked About: Furniture Lighting & Decor Article Other Episodes Mentioned: EPISODE 660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” EPISODE 585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems EPISODE 520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! EPISODE 145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm EPISODE 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share insight on growing not just a luxury design firm - but a thriving luxury design firm. She'll share everything from the why, to the how, and everything in between.

I am thrilled that Sandra will also be sharing the latest news about her business program, the "Interior Design Standard".  I know it will be the best investment for your business.

Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Registration opens March 23rd!

Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses:

“A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide!  The Interior Design Standard is incredible.  I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!”

- Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors 

 

"The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.” 

- Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors 

Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together.

What We Talked About:

Furniture Lighting & Decor Article

Other Episodes Mentioned:

EPISODE 660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

EPISODE 585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems

EPISODE 520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

EPISODE 145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm

EPISODE 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

 

]]> 2949 no 752: Power Talk Friday: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/752-power-talk-friday-kelsey-kurtis-connection-based-branding-for-success Today with Kelsey Kurtis: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and we’re talking-branding! This is for everyone. Kelsey Kurtis, author of The Connection Method and professional lifestyle branding photographer, shares her principles to create an impactful brand through the power of connection.   Pick it apart: [16:17] Kelsey shares with us the steps from her book that she encourages people to take when defining their brand. [23:00] Kelsey and LuAnn discuss the importance of having three non-negotiables when having those hard discussions. [26:20] Kelsey tells us about everyone’s favorite chapter in The Connection Method.  [39:00] We learn the three steps of Kelsey’s branding and marketing cycle.  [49:27] Kelsey shares the three value elements for a balanced social media and marketing plan. More About Kelsey Kurtis: Kelsey is a branding educator, lifestyle branding photographer, author, energetic speaker, and unapologetic cheerleader for leaders in business. She is the author of The Connection Method® and creator of Connection-Based Branding. Kelsey has over ten years of experience as a professional photographer and working with business owners and leaders. She is passionate about educating and equipping leaders with the tools they need to genuinely connect with both themselves and their audience in order to stand confidently in who they are and what they offer. Connect with Kelsey Kurtis Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  Link to buy The Connection Method (paperback) Link to buy The Connection Method (hardback) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #125- Nicole Heymer: How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   #248- Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet   #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #26 Kae Whitaker Branding Your Business, Finally I Understand It!   Fri, 04 Mar 2022 07:00:55 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success full 752 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kelsey Kurtis: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and we’re talking-branding! This is for everyone. Kelsey Kurtis, author of The Connection Method and professional lifestyle branding photographer, shares her... Today with Kelsey Kurtis: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and we’re talking-branding! This is for everyone. Kelsey Kurtis, author of The Connection Method and professional lifestyle branding photographer, shares her principles to create an impactful brand through the power of connection.   Pick it apart: [16:17] Kelsey shares with us the steps from her book that she encourages people to take when defining their brand. [23:00] Kelsey and LuAnn discuss the importance of having three non-negotiables when having those hard discussions. [26:20] Kelsey tells us about everyone’s favorite chapter in The Connection Method.  [39:00] We learn the three steps of Kelsey’s branding and marketing cycle.  [49:27] Kelsey shares the three value elements for a balanced social media and marketing plan. More About Kelsey Kurtis: Kelsey is a branding educator, lifestyle branding photographer, author, energetic speaker, and unapologetic cheerleader for leaders in business. She is the author of The Connection Method® and creator of Connection-Based Branding. Kelsey has over ten years of experience as a professional photographer and working with business owners and leaders. She is passionate about educating and equipping leaders with the tools they need to genuinely connect with both themselves and their audience in order to stand confidently in who they are and what they offer. Connect with Kelsey Kurtis Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  Link to buy The Connection Method (paperback) Link to buy The Connection Method (hardback) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #125- Nicole Heymer: How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!   #248- Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet   #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #26 Kae Whitaker Branding Your Business, Finally I Understand It!   Welcome to A Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and we’re talking-branding! This is for everyone. Kelsey Kurtis, author of The Connection Method and professional lifestyle branding photographer, shares her principles to create an impactful brand through the power of connection.

 

Pick it apart:

  • [16:17] Kelsey shares with us the steps from her book that she encourages people to take when defining their brand.

    [23:00] Kelsey and LuAnn discuss the importance of having three non-negotiables when having those hard discussions.

    [26:20] Kelsey tells us about everyone’s favorite chapter in The Connection Method. 

    [39:00] We learn the three steps of Kelsey’s branding and marketing cycle. 

    [49:27] Kelsey shares the three value elements for a balanced social media and marketing plan.

More About Kelsey Kurtis:

Kelsey is a branding educator, lifestyle branding photographer, author, energetic speaker, and unapologetic cheerleader for leaders in business. She is the author of The Connection Method® and creator of Connection-Based Branding.

Kelsey has over ten years of experience as a professional photographer and working with business owners and leaders. She is passionate about educating and equipping leaders with the tools they need to genuinely connect with both themselves and their audience in order to stand confidently in who they are and what they offer.

Connect with Kelsey Kurtis

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn 

Link to buy The Connection Method (paperback)

Link to buy The Connection Method (hardback)

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned

#125- Nicole Heymer: How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

 

#248- Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet

 

#651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

#26 Kae Whitaker Branding Your Business, Finally I Understand It!

 

]]> 4131 no 751: Sandra Vlock: Blaze Your Own Trail http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/751-sandra-vlock-blaze-your-own-trail Today with Sandra Vlock Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I have the pleasure of talking with Sandra Vlock, founder of Studio Vlock. Sandra worked as an architect in her own firm for 30 years before shifting into, what she likes to refer to as, functional fine art. If that’s not impressive, wait until you see her illuminating, evocative sculptures. Let this episode serve as an inspiration for you to make that big move to change your life and success, like Sandra did. Pick it apart: [1:30] Sandra begins by explaining her concept of “functional art.” [6:05] Sandra tells us some of the ways that she leveraged being an architect into working as an artist. [12:00] Sandra and LuAnn discuss transferable skills and how important asking questions is.  [25:00] Sandra explains how luxury can be defined as a creative experience and how she executes that.  [45:50] Sandra ends with some great advice that she learned from owning her architecture firm and beginning a new business.   LuAnn and Sandra Vlock’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s not just finding opportunities for more pieces, it’s understanding what your skill set may be that could increase the scope of the work.” - Sandra Vlock   “On our show, we have discussed the standpoint of the Erika Ward transferable skills many times and in many different ways. Your past impacts what you're doing, just how you're expressing how your 30+ year career as an architect is impacting the way you create functional art.” - LuAnn Nigara   “Clients are craving a unique experience that can be shared.” - Sandra Vlock   “I guess people like what I do artistically, but I think it’s because I am willing to be such an avid listener to every detail and it shows up in the work that I produce.” - Sandra Vlock More about Sandra Vlock: As an architect of contemporary architectural design, who is now working as an artist, Sandra Vlock's focus is to engage people in a shared experience; capturing an authentic sense of place, context and narrative. Vlock views the integration of fine art and architectural elements as a natural evolution of that vision; one that enables Vlock to design evocative steel sculptures that inspire memorable experiences and create unique environments for social gathering, quiet reflection, and visual delight. Find out more about her work by visiting STUDIO VLOCK. Connect with Sandra Vlock: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG THANK YOU to today's sponsor:  I want to thank Kravet Inc for sponsoring the podcast. If you have not visited Kravet.com yet to check out their complete line of fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture, lighting and accessories, Please do it today. While you are there, set up your trade account. No minimum purchases, one uyard one sofa one rug. Go to kravet.com today.   Other Shows Mentioned: #6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward. #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy. #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Rebranded her 10 Year Old Firm. #278- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #520- Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660- Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes.   Tue, 01 Mar 2022 07:00:41 -0000 Sandra Vlock: Blaze Your Own Trail full 751 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sandra Vlock Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I have the pleasure of talking with Sandra Vlock, founder of Studio Vlock. Sandra worked as an architect in her own firm for 30 years before shifting into, what she likes to refer to... Today with Sandra Vlock Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I have the pleasure of talking with Sandra Vlock, founder of Studio Vlock. Sandra worked as an architect in her own firm for 30 years before shifting into, what she likes to refer to as, functional fine art. If that’s not impressive, wait until you see her illuminating, evocative sculptures. Let this episode serve as an inspiration for you to make that big move to change your life and success, like Sandra did. Pick it apart: [1:30] Sandra begins by explaining her concept of “functional art.” [6:05] Sandra tells us some of the ways that she leveraged being an architect into working as an artist. [12:00] Sandra and LuAnn discuss transferable skills and how important asking questions is.  [25:00] Sandra explains how luxury can be defined as a creative experience and how she executes that.  [45:50] Sandra ends with some great advice that she learned from owning her architecture firm and beginning a new business.   LuAnn and Sandra Vlock’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s not just finding opportunities for more pieces, it’s understanding what your skill set may be that could increase the scope of the work.” - Sandra Vlock   “On our show, we have discussed the standpoint of the Erika Ward transferable skills many times and in many different ways. Your past impacts what you're doing, just how you're expressing how your 30+ year career as an architect is impacting the way you create functional art.” - LuAnn Nigara   “Clients are craving a unique experience that can be shared.” - Sandra Vlock   “I guess people like what I do artistically, but I think it’s because I am willing to be such an avid listener to every detail and it shows up in the work that I produce.” - Sandra Vlock More about Sandra Vlock: As an architect of contemporary architectural design, who is now working as an artist, Sandra Vlock's focus is to engage people in a shared experience; capturing an authentic sense of place, context and narrative. Vlock views the integration of fine art and architectural elements as a natural evolution of that vision; one that enables Vlock to design evocative steel sculptures that inspire memorable experiences and create unique environments for social gathering, quiet reflection, and visual delight. Find out more about her work by visiting STUDIO VLOCK. Connect with Sandra Vlock: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG THANK YOU to today's sponsor:  I want to thank Kravet Inc for sponsoring the podcast. If you have not visited Kravet.com yet to check out their complete line of fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture, lighting and accessories, Please do it today. While you are there, set up your trade account. No minimum purchases, one uyard one sofa one rug. Go to kravet.com today.   Other Shows Mentioned: #6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward. #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy. #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Rebranded her 10 Year Old Firm. #278- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #520- Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660- Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes.   Today with Sandra Vlock

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I have the pleasure of talking with Sandra Vlock, founder of Studio Vlock. Sandra worked as an architect in her own firm for 30 years before shifting into, what she likes to refer to as, functional fine art. If that’s not impressive, wait until you see her illuminating, evocative sculptures. Let this episode serve as an inspiration for you to make that big move to change your life and success, like Sandra did.

Pick it apart:

  • [1:30] Sandra begins by explaining her concept of “functional art.”

    [6:05] Sandra tells us some of the ways that she leveraged being an architect into working as an artist.

    [12:00] Sandra and LuAnn discuss transferable skills and how important asking questions is. 

    [25:00] Sandra explains how luxury can be defined as a creative experience and how she executes that. 

    [45:50] Sandra ends with some great advice that she learned from owning her architecture firm and beginning a new business.  

LuAnn and Sandra Vlock’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s not just finding opportunities for more pieces, it’s understanding what your skill set may be that could increase the scope of the work.” - Sandra Vlock

 

“On our show, we have discussed the standpoint of the Erika Ward transferable skills many times and in many different ways. Your past impacts what you're doing, just how you're expressing how your 30+ year career as an architect is impacting the way you create functional art.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“Clients are craving a unique experience that can be shared.” - Sandra Vlock

 

“I guess people like what I do artistically, but I think it’s because I am willing to be such an avid listener to every detail and it shows up in the work that I produce.” - Sandra Vlock

More about Sandra Vlock:

As an architect of contemporary architectural design, who is now working as an artist, Sandra Vlock's focus is to engage people in a shared experience; capturing an authentic sense of place, context and narrative. Vlock views the integration of fine art and architectural elements as a natural evolution of that vision; one that enables Vlock to design evocative steel sculptures that inspire memorable experiences and create unique environments for social gathering, quiet reflection, and visual delight. Find out more about her work by visiting STUDIO VLOCK.

Connect with Sandra Vlock:

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A BIG THANK YOU to today's sponsor:

 I want to thank Kravet Inc for sponsoring the podcast. If you have not visited Kravet.com yet to check out their complete line of fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture, lighting and accessories, Please do it today. While you are there, set up your trade account. No minimum purchases, one uyard one sofa one rug. Go to kravet.com today.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward.

#2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy.

#145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Rebranded her 10 Year Old Firm.

#278- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.

#520- Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660- Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes.

 

]]> 3752 no 750: Power Talk Friday: Erin Harding: Paid Pinterest Campaigns for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/750-power-talk-friday-erin-harding-paid-pinterest-campaigns-for-interior-designers Today with Erin Harding: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Social media marketing is a valuable tool for interior designers. Pinterest in particular is an excellent platform to leverage the beautiful visuals of your business in order to grow your audience and expand your reach. We’ve heard about the organic side of Pinterest from Simple Pin Media before. Today, Erin Harding of Simple Pin joins us to dive into the paid advertising side.   Pick it apart: 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them More About Erin Harding: Erin Harding is the Director of Promoted Pins Management at Simple Pin Media. In her five years with Simple Pin, she has worked with a variety of businesses and brands, helping them to grow their business on Pinterest, both organically and paid. Erin believes in the power of Pinterest and hopes that through her teachings, others will as well. Connect with Erin Harding Website Pinterest Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned #331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #618 Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design Fri, 25 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Erin Harding: Paid Pinterest Campaigns for Interior Designers full 750 LuAnn Nigara Today with Erin Harding: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Social media marketing is a valuable tool for interior designers. Pinterest in particular is an excellent platform to leverage the beautiful visuals of your business in order to grow your... Today with Erin Harding: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Social media marketing is a valuable tool for interior designers. Pinterest in particular is an excellent platform to leverage the beautiful visuals of your business in order to grow your audience and expand your reach. We’ve heard about the organic side of Pinterest from Simple Pin Media before. Today, Erin Harding of Simple Pin joins us to dive into the paid advertising side.   Pick it apart: 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them More About Erin Harding: Erin Harding is the Director of Promoted Pins Management at Simple Pin Media. In her five years with Simple Pin, she has worked with a variety of businesses and brands, helping them to grow their business on Pinterest, both organically and paid. Erin believes in the power of Pinterest and hopes that through her teachings, others will as well. Connect with Erin Harding Website Pinterest Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned #331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #618 Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Social media marketing is a valuable tool for interior designers. Pinterest in particular is an excellent platform to leverage the beautiful visuals of your business in order to grow your audience and expand your reach. We’ve heard about the organic side of Pinterest from Simple Pin Media before. Today, Erin Harding of Simple Pin joins us to dive into the paid advertising side.

 

Pick it apart:

  • 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers
  • 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign
  • 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos
  • 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns
  • 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them
  • 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers
  • 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign
  • 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos
  • 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns
  • 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them

More About Erin Harding:

Erin Harding is the Director of Promoted Pins Management at Simple Pin Media. In her five years with Simple Pin, she has worked with a variety of businesses and brands, helping them to grow their business on Pinterest, both organically and paid. Erin believes in the power of Pinterest and hopes that through her teachings, others will as well.

Connect with Erin Harding

Website

Pinterest

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Other Shows Mentioned

#331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm

#618 Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design

]]> 3249 no 749: Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/749-peggy-morgans-how-do-i-get-my-business-ready-to-sell Today with Peggy Morgans Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Window treatment pro, Peggy Morgans shares the experts she hired and the work she did to prepare her business for a sale. Previously doing 90% of the work herself, Peggy set a goal of taking herself out of the business and broke the action items into a checklist of just three simple to-dos to achieve her goal. Pick it apart: [13:07] Peg shares how she felt about the process documentation when work is so custom [22:54] Peggy details how she hired out some of her marketing  [26:31] Peggy and LuAnn talk about lunch and learns [33:33] Peggy and LuAnn discuss the hiring learning curve [44:36] Peggy tells how she upgraded her systems to allow for process improvement [52:32] LuAnn and Peggy talk about the advantages of coaching and Chairman of the Board LuAnn and Peggy Morgans’ Ah-Ha moments: “You have a business, not a you.” - LuAnn Nigara   We want to make this business so that the person who buys it doesn’t have to know anything about window treatments. - LuAnn Nigara   There’s nothing wrong with the personality. But that personality doesn’t align with what you want. - LuAnn Nigara   Part of what my role is is empowering you to listen to your own inner voice. - LuAnn Nigara More about Peggy Morgans: Peggy Morgans is the owner of Parkway Window Works, an award winning custom drapery workroom serving interior designers in the greater Rochester and Upstate New York area. Parkway Window Works started as a home based, solo operation 20 years ago and was built from Peggy’s background as a former chemical engineer and MBA. Streamlined systems and a problem solving approach are the cornerstones of the company. Today, Peggy is leading a team of 8 located in 2700 square feet of commercial space to house our designer consultation space and state of the art workroom. Parkway offers design professionals a one-stop-shop with unparalleled technical expertise and a hassle-free process that takes care of it all from measure to installation and everything in between. Connect with Peggy Morgans: Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 22 Feb 2022 07:00:05 -0000 Peggy Morgans: How Do I Get My Business Ready to Sell? full 749 LuAnn Nigara Today with Peggy Morgans Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Window treatment pro, Peggy Morgans shares the experts she hired and the work she did to prepare her business for a sale. Previously doing 90% of the work herself, Peggy set a goal of... Today with Peggy Morgans Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Window treatment pro, Peggy Morgans shares the experts she hired and the work she did to prepare her business for a sale. Previously doing 90% of the work herself, Peggy set a goal of taking herself out of the business and broke the action items into a checklist of just three simple to-dos to achieve her goal. Pick it apart: [13:07] Peg shares how she felt about the process documentation when work is so custom [22:54] Peggy details how she hired out some of her marketing  [26:31] Peggy and LuAnn talk about lunch and learns [33:33] Peggy and LuAnn discuss the hiring learning curve [44:36] Peggy tells how she upgraded her systems to allow for process improvement [52:32] LuAnn and Peggy talk about the advantages of coaching and Chairman of the Board LuAnn and Peggy Morgans’ Ah-Ha moments: “You have a business, not a you.” - LuAnn Nigara   We want to make this business so that the person who buys it doesn’t have to know anything about window treatments. - LuAnn Nigara   There’s nothing wrong with the personality. But that personality doesn’t align with what you want. - LuAnn Nigara   Part of what my role is is empowering you to listen to your own inner voice. - LuAnn Nigara More about Peggy Morgans: Peggy Morgans is the owner of Parkway Window Works, an award winning custom drapery workroom serving interior designers in the greater Rochester and Upstate New York area. Parkway Window Works started as a home based, solo operation 20 years ago and was built from Peggy’s background as a former chemical engineer and MBA. Streamlined systems and a problem solving approach are the cornerstones of the company. Today, Peggy is leading a team of 8 located in 2700 square feet of commercial space to house our designer consultation space and state of the art workroom. Parkway offers design professionals a one-stop-shop with unparalleled technical expertise and a hassle-free process that takes care of it all from measure to installation and everything in between. Connect with Peggy Morgans: Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Window treatment pro, Peggy Morgans shares the experts she hired and the work she did to prepare her business for a sale. Previously doing 90% of the work herself, Peggy set a goal of taking herself out of the business and broke the action items into a checklist of just three simple to-dos to achieve her goal.

Pick it apart:

  • [13:07] Peg shares how she felt about the process documentation when work is so custom

    [22:54] Peggy details how she hired out some of her marketing 

    [26:31] Peggy and LuAnn talk about lunch and learns

    [33:33] Peggy and LuAnn discuss the hiring learning curve

    [44:36] Peggy tells how she upgraded her systems to allow for process improvement

    [52:32] LuAnn and Peggy talk about the advantages of coaching and Chairman of the Board

LuAnn and Peggy Morgans’ Ah-Ha moments:

“You have a business, not a you.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

We want to make this business so that the person who buys it doesn’t have to know anything about window treatments. - LuAnn Nigara

 

There’s nothing wrong with the personality. But that personality doesn’t align with what you want. - LuAnn Nigara

 

Part of what my role is is empowering you to listen to your own inner voice. - LuAnn Nigara

More about Peggy Morgans:

Peggy Morgans is the owner of Parkway Window Works, an award winning custom drapery workroom serving interior designers in the greater Rochester and Upstate New York area. Parkway Window Works started as a home based, solo operation 20 years ago and was built from Peggy’s background as a former chemical engineer and MBA. Streamlined systems and a problem solving approach are the cornerstones of the company. Today, Peggy is leading a team of 8 located in 2700 square feet of commercial space to house our designer consultation space and state of the art workroom. Parkway offers design professionals a one-stop-shop with unparalleled technical expertise and a hassle-free process that takes care of it all from measure to installation and everything in between.

Connect with Peggy Morgans:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4083 no 748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/748-window-treatment-friday-pricing-window-treatments-understanding-margin-vs-markup Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s WTF—Window Treatment Friday—is part 1 of a new three-part series on pricing window treatments. We’re breaking down margin vs. markup, how to do each, and why you need to know.  You’re going to get the math and the formulas you need, but we’re also diving into what the numbers mean, so you can price window treatments with confidence and knowledge. Pick It Apart:  [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours.  [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them.  [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “The bottom line of this is that we care about these numbers because they are the drivers. They show us how financially free we are, how financially independent we are, how financially sustainable we are in terms of our business. And ultimately, our business then translates to our personal lives. That’s why we should care. It improves the quality of our lives—at least on a financial level.” -Vita Vygovska   “There are people who are math whizzes and numbers geeks who will totally say ‘Oh, now I’m understanding all of the background on this and how to come up with numbers that will earn me a profitable markup so that I can run a profitable business.’ But then there’s a lot of people like me who will say ‘If you tell me the multiplier to run a healthy business is 2.5, that’s what I’m going to go for.’” -LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire   #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara   #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments   #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1   #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2   #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments   #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success   #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware   #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional   #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely   #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream   #586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments   #610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions   #645 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year   #653 Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes Fri, 18 Feb 2022 07:00:39 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup full 748 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s WTF—Window Treatment Friday—is part 1 of a new three-part series on pricing window treatments. We’re breaking down margin vs. markup, how to do each, and why you need... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s WTF—Window Treatment Friday—is part 1 of a new three-part series on pricing window treatments. We’re breaking down margin vs. markup, how to do each, and why you need to know.  You’re going to get the math and the formulas you need, but we’re also diving into what the numbers mean, so you can price window treatments with confidence and knowledge. Pick It Apart:  [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours.  [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them.  [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “The bottom line of this is that we care about these numbers because they are the drivers. They show us how financially free we are, how financially independent we are, how financially sustainable we are in terms of our business. And ultimately, our business then translates to our personal lives. That’s why we should care. It improves the quality of our lives—at least on a financial level.” -Vita Vygovska   “There are people who are math whizzes and numbers geeks who will totally say ‘Oh, now I’m understanding all of the background on this and how to come up with numbers that will earn me a profitable markup so that I can run a profitable business.’ But then there’s a lot of people like me who will say ‘If you tell me the multiplier to run a healthy business is 2.5, that’s what I’m going to go for.’” -LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire   #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara   #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments   #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1   #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2   #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments   #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success   #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware   #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional   #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely   #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream   #586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments   #610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions   #645 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year   #653 Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s WTF—Window Treatment Friday—is part 1 of a new three-part series on pricing window treatments. We’re breaking down margin vs. markup, how to do each, and why you need to know. 

You’re going to get the math and the formulas you need, but we’re also diving into what the numbers mean, so you can price window treatments with confidence and knowledge.

Pick It Apart: 

  • [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas.
  • [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours. 
  • [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation.
  • [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them. 
  • [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit.

 

Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska:

“The bottom line of this is that we care about these numbers because they are the drivers. They show us how financially free we are, how financially independent we are, how financially sustainable we are in terms of our business. And ultimately, our business then translates to our personal lives. That’s why we should care. It improves the quality of our lives—at least on a financial level.” -Vita Vygovska

 

“There are people who are math whizzes and numbers geeks who will totally say ‘Oh, now I’m understanding all of the background on this and how to come up with numbers that will earn me a profitable markup so that I can run a profitable business.’ But then there’s a lot of people like me who will say ‘If you tell me the multiplier to run a healthy business is 2.5, that’s what I’m going to go for.’” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

 

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

 

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

 

#448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara

 

#456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments

 

#462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1

 

#471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2

 

#481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments

 

#493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success

 

#512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware

 

#518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional

 

#539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely

 

#551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream

 

#586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments

 

#610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions

 

#645 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year

 

#653 Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes

]]> 3411 no 747: Celebrating 6 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/747-celebrating-6-years Today on A Well-Designed Business: A Well-Designed Business® is 6 years old today!  Can you believe it? I can't tell you what it means to me to have you on this journey with me. So really, while I am celebrating this milestone for the podcast, I'm also celebrating YOU.  I've been reflecting on all that's happened between February 15th, 2016 and today, and I'm blown away by the education I've received from all the incredible guests and sponsors I have had the privilege to work with throughout the years.  Today I will be sharing some of the big lessons I've learned from my three featured sponsors: @kravetinc , @mydoma , and @windowworks Give the episode a listen, and tell me: What are the biggest #ahamoments you've experienced? Thank you for coming along for the ride and choosing to spend your time with me each week.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 15 Feb 2022 07:00:54 -0000 Celebrating 6 Years full 747 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: A Well-Designed Business® is 6 years old today!  Can you believe it? I can't tell you what it means to me to have you on this journey with me. So really, while I am celebrating this milestone for the podcast,... Today on A Well-Designed Business: A Well-Designed Business® is 6 years old today!  Can you believe it? I can't tell you what it means to me to have you on this journey with me. So really, while I am celebrating this milestone for the podcast, I'm also celebrating YOU.  I've been reflecting on all that's happened between February 15th, 2016 and today, and I'm blown away by the education I've received from all the incredible guests and sponsors I have had the privilege to work with throughout the years.  Today I will be sharing some of the big lessons I've learned from my three featured sponsors: @kravetinc , @mydoma , and @windowworks Give the episode a listen, and tell me: What are the biggest #ahamoments you've experienced? Thank you for coming along for the ride and choosing to spend your time with me each week.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today on A Well-Designed Business:

A Well-Designed Business® is 6 years old today!  Can you believe it? I can't tell you what it means to me to have you on this journey with me. So really, while I am celebrating this milestone for the podcast, I'm also celebrating YOU. 

I've been reflecting on all that's happened between February 15th, 2016 and today, and I'm blown away by the education I've received from all the incredible guests and sponsors I have had the privilege to work with throughout the years. 

Today I will be sharing some of the big lessons I've learned from my three featured sponsors: @kravetinc , @mydoma , and @windowworks

Give the episode a listen, and tell me: What are the biggest #ahamoments you've experienced?

Thank you for coming along for the ride and choosing to spend your time with me each week. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 833 no 746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/746-power-talk-friday-daniela-furtado-how-to-get-seo-traffic-to-your-portfolio Today with Daniela Furtado: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Daniela Furtado, the Toronto-based managing director of Findable Digital Marketing specializes in SEO for the design industry. She covers what to look for when hiring an SEO specialist and how to DIY it without wasting your time. Daniela’s case study recommendation comes with a Goodie Doc checklist found by signing up at https://luannnigara.com/goodies/.   Pick it apart:   [11:26] Daniela shares how to optimize your portfolio [17:31] Daniela explains the structure of her case studies [21:11] Daniela gives an example of a designer she helped with SEO [24:35] LuAnn recaps Sara Barney’s SEO success [27:27] Daniela explains what to look for in a reputable SEO provider  [33:01] Daniela suggests a process to solicit reviews from clients [37:46] Daniela shares how she works with clients [43:02] Daniela explains how Google Ads works [46:29] Daniela explains Google Search Console More About Daniela Furtado: Daniela Furtado is the managing director of Findable Digital Marketing, a boutique SEO agency that specializes in architects and interior designers. She’s based in Toronto, Canada. Connect with Daniela Furtado Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Fri, 11 Feb 2022 12:25:05 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio full 746 LuAnn Nigara Today with Daniela Furtado: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Daniela Furtado, the Toronto-based managing director of Findable Digital Marketing specializes in SEO for the design industry. She covers what to look for when hiring an SEO specialist... Today with Daniela Furtado: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Daniela Furtado, the Toronto-based managing director of Findable Digital Marketing specializes in SEO for the design industry. She covers what to look for when hiring an SEO specialist and how to DIY it without wasting your time. Daniela’s case study recommendation comes with a Goodie Doc checklist found by signing up at https://luannnigara.com/goodies/.   Pick it apart:   [11:26] Daniela shares how to optimize your portfolio [17:31] Daniela explains the structure of her case studies [21:11] Daniela gives an example of a designer she helped with SEO [24:35] LuAnn recaps Sara Barney’s SEO success [27:27] Daniela explains what to look for in a reputable SEO provider  [33:01] Daniela suggests a process to solicit reviews from clients [37:46] Daniela shares how she works with clients [43:02] Daniela explains how Google Ads works [46:29] Daniela explains Google Search Console More About Daniela Furtado: Daniela Furtado is the managing director of Findable Digital Marketing, a boutique SEO agency that specializes in architects and interior designers. She’s based in Toronto, Canada. Connect with Daniela Furtado Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Today with Daniela Furtado:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Daniela Furtado, the Toronto-based managing director of Findable Digital Marketing specializes in SEO for the design industry. She covers what to look for when hiring an SEO specialist and how to DIY it without wasting your time. Daniela’s case study recommendation comes with a Goodie Doc checklist found by signing up at https://luannnigara.com/goodies/.

 

Pick it apart:

    •  

[11:26] Daniela shares how to optimize your portfolio

[17:31] Daniela explains the structure of her case studies

[21:11] Daniela gives an example of a designer she helped with SEO

[24:35] LuAnn recaps Sara Barney’s SEO success

[27:27] Daniela explains what to look for in a reputable SEO provider 

[33:01] Daniela suggests a process to solicit reviews from clients

[37:46] Daniela shares how she works with clients

[43:02] Daniela explains how Google Ads works

[46:29] Daniela explains Google Search Console

More About Daniela Furtado:

Daniela Furtado is the managing director of Findable Digital Marketing, a boutique SEO agency that specializes in architects and interior designers.

She’s based in Toronto, Canada.

Connect with Daniela Furtado

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

]]> 3449 no 745: What Would Lu Do? Let's Meet for Drinks http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/745-what-would-lu-do-lets-meet-for-drinks Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! "Let's meet for drinks", says an innocent email from a potential client. Or is it less than innocent? Today's episode was a great question, a very important question, from an anonymous listener, who found themselves in an uncomfortable situation with a client. How do you respond when a potential client extends an invitation for a meeting outside business hours? Join me for today's What Would Lu Do episode as I pick this situation apart, and we discuss the importance of listening to your intuition. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Tue, 08 Feb 2022 07:00:48 -0000 745: What Would Lu Do? Let's Meet for Drinks full 745 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! "Let's meet for drinks", says an innocent email from a potential client. Or is it less than innocent? Today's episode was a great question, a very important question, from an... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! "Let's meet for drinks", says an innocent email from a potential client. Or is it less than innocent? Today's episode was a great question, a very important question, from an anonymous listener, who found themselves in an uncomfortable situation with a client. How do you respond when a potential client extends an invitation for a meeting outside business hours? Join me for today's What Would Lu Do episode as I pick this situation apart, and we discuss the importance of listening to your intuition. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode!

"Let's meet for drinks", says an innocent email from a potential client. Or is it less than innocent?

Today's episode was a great question, a very important question, from an anonymous listener, who found themselves in an uncomfortable situation with a client.

How do you respond when a potential client extends an invitation for a meeting outside business hours?

Join me for today's What Would Lu Do episode as I pick this situation apart, and we discuss the importance of listening to your intuition.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 1150 no 744: Power Talk Friday: Meredith Kallaher: How to Use Paid Ads to Grow Your Social http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/744-power-talk-friday-meredith-kallaher-how-to-use-paid-ads-to-grow-your-social Today with Meredith Kallaher: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Once a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Meredith Kallaher took her love of numbers and fondness for small businesses and became a certified paid ad specialist. Learn the strategy Meredith uses for her clients to grow their social following and advertise on social despite increasingly restricted targeting options.   Pick it apart: [8:35] Meredith recaps the iOS 14 update of April 2021   [13:25] Meredith explains a sample ad campaign creation   [16:58] Meredith advises how to set up your social profile section   [18:38] Meredith explains how to set up a social ad campaign   [38:57] LuAnn shares a tactic for time blocking   More About Meredith Kallaher: Meredith Kallaher helps entrepreneurs develop and implement marketing strategies that optimize for profit and meet their customers where they are with social media advertising (i.e. Facebook and Instagram ads) and conversion copy writing.   Her 6 years of experience as a CPA with PricewaterhouseCoopers combined with her ownership of The Scout Guide Miami franchise where she developed an extensive advertising and social media marketing expertise has uniquely prepared Meredith to help businesses execute and implement successful social media advertising campaigns. Connect with Meredith Kallaher Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Fri, 04 Feb 2022 07:00:24 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Meredith Kallaher: How to Use Paid Ads to Grow Your Social full 744 LuAnn Nigara Today with Meredith Kallaher: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Once a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Meredith Kallaher took her love of numbers and fondness for small businesses and became a certified paid ad specialist. Learn the strategy... Today with Meredith Kallaher: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Once a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Meredith Kallaher took her love of numbers and fondness for small businesses and became a certified paid ad specialist. Learn the strategy Meredith uses for her clients to grow their social following and advertise on social despite increasingly restricted targeting options.   Pick it apart: [8:35] Meredith recaps the iOS 14 update of April 2021   [13:25] Meredith explains a sample ad campaign creation   [16:58] Meredith advises how to set up your social profile section   [18:38] Meredith explains how to set up a social ad campaign   [38:57] LuAnn shares a tactic for time blocking   More About Meredith Kallaher: Meredith Kallaher helps entrepreneurs develop and implement marketing strategies that optimize for profit and meet their customers where they are with social media advertising (i.e. Facebook and Instagram ads) and conversion copy writing.   Her 6 years of experience as a CPA with PricewaterhouseCoopers combined with her ownership of The Scout Guide Miami franchise where she developed an extensive advertising and social media marketing expertise has uniquely prepared Meredith to help businesses execute and implement successful social media advertising campaigns. Connect with Meredith Kallaher Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Today with Meredith Kallaher:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Once a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Meredith Kallaher took her love of numbers and fondness for small businesses and became a certified paid ad specialist. Learn the strategy Meredith uses for her clients to grow their social following and advertise on social despite increasingly restricted targeting options.

 

Pick it apart:

  • [8:35] Meredith recaps the iOS 14 update of April 2021

     

    [13:25] Meredith explains a sample ad campaign creation

     

    [16:58] Meredith advises how to set up your social profile section

     

    [18:38] Meredith explains how to set up a social ad campaign

     

    [38:57] LuAnn shares a tactic for time blocking

 

More About Meredith Kallaher:

Meredith Kallaher helps entrepreneurs develop and implement marketing strategies that optimize for profit and meet their customers where they are with social media advertising (i.e. Facebook and Instagram ads) and conversion copy writing.

 

Her 6 years of experience as a CPA with PricewaterhouseCoopers combined with her ownership of The Scout Guide Miami franchise where she developed an extensive advertising and social media marketing expertise has uniquely prepared Meredith to help businesses execute and implement successful social media advertising campaigns.

Connect with Meredith Kallaher

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

]]> 3495 no 743: Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/awelldesignedbusiness/WDB_743_Chanae_Richards_Master_1-30-22___.mp3 Today with Chanae Richards  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success. Pick it apart: [22:24] Chanae shares her unconventional story, which started in finance and then included Peer Space rentals before design.  [29:37] Chanae and LuAnn dive into how she secured 500 rental bookings in two years, laying the foundation for her design referral base.  [36:50] Chanae discusses how seeing another successful Black designer fueled her decision to leave her career and start her business. [44:55] Chanae reflects on her decision to shift her business to 100% referral-based.  [1:04:30] Chanae highlights her Entrepreneurial Retail Center—a way that she gives back to the community and helps those who live in public housing start their own entrepreneurial journeys. LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards   “What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara “I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards More about Chane Richards: Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation. Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network. Connect with Chanae Richards: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist Tue, 01 Feb 2022 07:00:14 -0000 Chanae Richards: An Unconventional Path to an Interior Design Business full 743 LuAnn Nigara Today with Chanae Richards  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on... Today with Chanae Richards  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success. Pick it apart: [22:24] Chanae shares her unconventional story, which started in finance and then included Peer Space rentals before design.  [29:37] Chanae and LuAnn dive into how she secured 500 rental bookings in two years, laying the foundation for her design referral base.  [36:50] Chanae discusses how seeing another successful Black designer fueled her decision to leave her career and start her business. [44:55] Chanae reflects on her decision to shift her business to 100% referral-based.  [1:04:30] Chanae highlights her Entrepreneurial Retail Center—a way that she gives back to the community and helps those who live in public housing start their own entrepreneurial journeys. LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards   “What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara “I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards More about Chane Richards: Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation. Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network. Connect with Chanae Richards: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward   #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist Today with Chanae Richards 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success.

Pick it apart:

  • [22:24] Chanae shares her unconventional story, which started in finance and then included Peer Space rentals before design. 
  • [29:37] Chanae and LuAnn dive into how she secured 500 rental bookings in two years, laying the foundation for her design referral base. 
  • [36:50] Chanae discusses how seeing another successful Black designer fueled her decision to leave her career and start her business.
  • [44:55] Chanae reflects on her decision to shift her business to 100% referral-based. 
  • [1:04:30] Chanae highlights her Entrepreneurial Retail Center—a way that she gives back to the community and helps those who live in public housing start their own entrepreneurial journeys.

LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards

 

“What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara

“I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards

More about Chane Richards:

Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation.

Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network.

Connect with Chanae Richards:

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

 

#711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist

]]> 3858 no 742: Power Talk Friday: Renee Gurganus: Why You Should Join the WCAA http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/742-power-talk-friday-renee-gurganus-why-you-should-join-the-wcaa Today with Renee Gurganus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking to Renee Gurganus, Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). I’m so happy to finally have Renee on our show. The WCAA is an association that I have been a board member of for two and a half years and I am so proud of everything they have done for the window coverings industry to provide education, networking opportunities, collaboration and so much more! Please check out this episode to learn the value that the WCAA could bring to your life, even if you aren’t in the window industry.   Pick it apart: [12:00] Renee tells us about WCAA’s WISP program and how it highlights the members and links them to other members. [13:00] Renee talks about partnering with LIG to offer members insurance options.  [22:00] Renee tells us about all of the different chapters WCAA has throughout the U.S. and also virtually.  [32:40] Renee informs us about the Jill Robson Scholarship offered through the WCAA. LuAnn and Renee Gurganus’ Ah-Ha moments: “One of the really important things that our association does is that it really listens to our members. We get requests and survey feedback and we look at it as a team and talk about how we can implement those requests.” - Renee Gurganus   “I want to emphasize that WCAA is an association and has really great benefits, but the greatest benefit is that we care so much about each other. We are a community that really helps each other.” - Renee Gurganus   “There is a different feeling at a WCAA meeting. It feels like you’re coming to be with your friends as opposed to a networking situation.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Renee Gurganus: Seasoned, dedicated, and multifaceted professional with 20 years of leadership experience in nonand for-profit organizations. I am currently the Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). Known for my talent in Strategic Planning and re-branding of nonprofit organizations. Armed with proven record of success in spearheading initiatives to drive resolutions of problems and improve productivity. Equipped with excellent decision-making capabilities, along with keen attention to detail and organizational skills to monitor and document pertinent information to create reports accurately. Recognized for strong verbal and written communication as well as interpersonal abilities in establishing rapport with clients and key stakeholders. Renee lives in Wilmington, NC with her husband Mark and their two German Shepards – Sig & Heidi. She enjoys reading and enjoying time on their boats almost year around. Connect with WCAA: Website  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Fri, 28 Jan 2022 07:00:57 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Renee Gurganus: Why You Should Join the WCAA full 742 LuAnn Nigara Today with Renee Gurganus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking to Renee Gurganus, Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). I’m so happy to finally have Renee on our show. The WCAA is an... Today with Renee Gurganus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking to Renee Gurganus, Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). I’m so happy to finally have Renee on our show. The WCAA is an association that I have been a board member of for two and a half years and I am so proud of everything they have done for the window coverings industry to provide education, networking opportunities, collaboration and so much more! Please check out this episode to learn the value that the WCAA could bring to your life, even if you aren’t in the window industry.   Pick it apart: [12:00] Renee tells us about WCAA’s WISP program and how it highlights the members and links them to other members. [13:00] Renee talks about partnering with LIG to offer members insurance options.  [22:00] Renee tells us about all of the different chapters WCAA has throughout the U.S. and also virtually.  [32:40] Renee informs us about the Jill Robson Scholarship offered through the WCAA. LuAnn and Renee Gurganus’ Ah-Ha moments: “One of the really important things that our association does is that it really listens to our members. We get requests and survey feedback and we look at it as a team and talk about how we can implement those requests.” - Renee Gurganus   “I want to emphasize that WCAA is an association and has really great benefits, but the greatest benefit is that we care so much about each other. We are a community that really helps each other.” - Renee Gurganus   “There is a different feeling at a WCAA meeting. It feels like you’re coming to be with your friends as opposed to a networking situation.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Renee Gurganus: Seasoned, dedicated, and multifaceted professional with 20 years of leadership experience in nonand for-profit organizations. I am currently the Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). Known for my talent in Strategic Planning and re-branding of nonprofit organizations. Armed with proven record of success in spearheading initiatives to drive resolutions of problems and improve productivity. Equipped with excellent decision-making capabilities, along with keen attention to detail and organizational skills to monitor and document pertinent information to create reports accurately. Recognized for strong verbal and written communication as well as interpersonal abilities in establishing rapport with clients and key stakeholders. Renee lives in Wilmington, NC with her husband Mark and their two German Shepards – Sig & Heidi. She enjoys reading and enjoying time on their boats almost year around. Connect with WCAA: Website  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today with Renee Gurganus:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking to Renee Gurganus, Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA).

I’m so happy to finally have Renee on our show. The WCAA is an association that I have been a board member of for two and a half years and I am so proud of everything they have done for the window coverings industry to provide education, networking opportunities, collaboration and so much more! Please check out this episode to learn the value that the WCAA could bring to your life, even if you aren’t in the window industry.

 

Pick it apart:

  • [12:00] Renee tells us about WCAA’s WISP program and how it highlights the members and links them to other members.

    [13:00] Renee talks about partnering with LIG to offer members insurance options. 

    [22:00] Renee tells us about all of the different chapters WCAA has throughout the U.S. and also virtually. 

    [32:40] Renee informs us about the Jill Robson Scholarship offered through the WCAA.

LuAnn and Renee Gurganus’ Ah-Ha moments:

“One of the really important things that our association does is that it really listens to our members. We get requests and survey feedback and we look at it as a team and talk about how we can implement those requests.” - Renee Gurganus

 

“I want to emphasize that WCAA is an association and has really great benefits, but the greatest benefit is that we care so much about each other. We are a community that really helps each other.” - Renee Gurganus

 

“There is a different feeling at a WCAA meeting. It feels like you’re coming to be with your friends as opposed to a networking situation.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Renee Gurganus:

Seasoned, dedicated, and multifaceted professional with 20 years of leadership experience in nonand for-profit organizations. I am currently the Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). Known for my talent in Strategic Planning and re-branding of nonprofit organizations. Armed with proven record of success in spearheading initiatives to drive resolutions of problems and improve productivity. Equipped with excellent decision-making capabilities, along with keen attention to detail and organizational skills to monitor and document pertinent information to create reports accurately. Recognized for strong verbal and written communication as well as interpersonal abilities in establishing rapport with clients and key stakeholders.

Renee lives in Wilmington, NC with her husband Mark and their two German Shepards – Sig & Heidi.

She enjoys reading and enjoying time on their boats almost year around.

Connect with WCAA:

Website 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 2715 no 741: Leia Ward: Getting Started with Luxury Staging http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/741-leia-ward-getting-started-with-luxury-staging Today with Leia Ward Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. New York-based luxury stager, Leia Ward, took her dad’s suggestion to start a staging business and ran with it. She learned the business, wore every hat, and pushed out of her comfort zone to build an amazing business. Learn how she handles her finances, where she got her business knowledge, and what she tells herself every day. Pick it apart: [13:46] Leia tells about her first real staging gig a luxury property [19:16] Leia shares how she got images for her website [23:16] LuAnn recaps Leia’s smart business choices [26:17] Leia tells how she creates a strategic plan  [30:06] Leia tells how she visualizes future memoring [41:00] Leia tells how she learned the money side of the business [49:39] Leia shares about the Profit First method she used LuAnn and Leia Ward’s Ah-Ha moments: There’s value in being strategic. Take time to think “how do I want to be received?” - and then you work backward from there.” - Leia Ward   “The number one thing is, don’t worry about what anyone else is doing.” - Leia Ward   “It’s the true desire connected to the gratitude and the action that makes it happen.” - LuAnn Nigara   “If you’re going to dream, dream big.” - Leia Ward More about Leia Ward: LTW Design is an award-winning staging design firm specializing in exclusive luxury properties. Named one of the ‘Top 10 Luxury Stagers’ in the country, the firm’s expertise is limitless. With an expansive inventory of furniture, accessories and artwork, their strategic interior marketing approach helps to sell homes swiftly and at top market Value. Founder & Principal Leia T. Ward is a one-of-a kind uniquely qualified leader in the real estate staging industry. Professionally trained and using the most innovative marketing techniques, Leia & her team have staged the most exclusive homes in the Northeast ranging from $1M- $20M, including the residence of Bruce Willis + Emma Hemming. Known for her attention to detail and forever inspired by her world travels, Leia has remarkable talent for blending textures, natural light and clean lines in every project. The LTW brand has a signature style of casual sophistication, creating calm and beautifully balanced spaces. Clients today benefit from her exceptional communication, project management and problem solving skills mastered during her 10 years working in the television and magazine industries in New York City. She has developed a unique ability to understand her client’s needs — which has been a key part of LTW Design’s success. Her trademark aesthetic of clean lines, bold neutrals and layered textures has been featured in magazines and websites including House Beautiful, Town & Country, CTC&G, New England Living, PureWow, Serendipity, Access Hollywood and more. Connect with Leia Ward: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio, a software that helps you get paid faster, save time on admin work and manage your projects more efficiently. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more. Other Shows Mentioned: #467 #76 #123 #396 #545 Tue, 25 Jan 2022 07:00:38 -0000 Leia Ward: Getting Started with Luxury Staging full 741 LuAnn Nigara Today with Leia Ward Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. New York-based luxury stager, Leia Ward, took her dad’s suggestion to start a staging business and ran with it. She learned the business, wore every hat, and pushed out of her comfort zone to... Today with Leia Ward Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. New York-based luxury stager, Leia Ward, took her dad’s suggestion to start a staging business and ran with it. She learned the business, wore every hat, and pushed out of her comfort zone to build an amazing business. Learn how she handles her finances, where she got her business knowledge, and what she tells herself every day. Pick it apart: [13:46] Leia tells about her first real staging gig a luxury property [19:16] Leia shares how she got images for her website [23:16] LuAnn recaps Leia’s smart business choices [26:17] Leia tells how she creates a strategic plan  [30:06] Leia tells how she visualizes future memoring [41:00] Leia tells how she learned the money side of the business [49:39] Leia shares about the Profit First method she used LuAnn and Leia Ward’s Ah-Ha moments: There’s value in being strategic. Take time to think “how do I want to be received?” - and then you work backward from there.” - Leia Ward   “The number one thing is, don’t worry about what anyone else is doing.” - Leia Ward   “It’s the true desire connected to the gratitude and the action that makes it happen.” - LuAnn Nigara   “If you’re going to dream, dream big.” - Leia Ward More about Leia Ward: LTW Design is an award-winning staging design firm specializing in exclusive luxury properties. Named one of the ‘Top 10 Luxury Stagers’ in the country, the firm’s expertise is limitless. With an expansive inventory of furniture, accessories and artwork, their strategic interior marketing approach helps to sell homes swiftly and at top market Value. Founder & Principal Leia T. Ward is a one-of-a kind uniquely qualified leader in the real estate staging industry. Professionally trained and using the most innovative marketing techniques, Leia & her team have staged the most exclusive homes in the Northeast ranging from $1M- $20M, including the residence of Bruce Willis + Emma Hemming. Known for her attention to detail and forever inspired by her world travels, Leia has remarkable talent for blending textures, natural light and clean lines in every project. The LTW brand has a signature style of casual sophistication, creating calm and beautifully balanced spaces. Clients today benefit from her exceptional communication, project management and problem solving skills mastered during her 10 years working in the television and magazine industries in New York City. She has developed a unique ability to understand her client’s needs — which has been a key part of LTW Design’s success. Her trademark aesthetic of clean lines, bold neutrals and layered textures has been featured in magazines and websites including House Beautiful, Town & Country, CTC&G, New England Living, PureWow, Serendipity, Access Hollywood and more. Connect with Leia Ward: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio, a software that helps you get paid faster, save time on admin work and manage your projects more efficiently. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more. Other Shows Mentioned: #467 #76 #123 #396 #545 Pick it apart:

[13:46] Leia tells about her first real staging gig a luxury property

[19:16] Leia shares how she got images for her website

[23:16] LuAnn recaps Leia’s smart business choices

[26:17] Leia tells how she creates a strategic plan 

[30:06] Leia tells how she visualizes future memoring

[41:00] Leia tells how she learned the money side of the business

[49:39] Leia shares about the Profit First method she used

LuAnn and Leia Ward’s Ah-Ha moments:

There’s value in being strategic. Take time to think “how do I want to be received?” - and then you work backward from there.” - Leia Ward

 

“The number one thing is, don’t worry about what anyone else is doing.” - Leia Ward

 

“It’s the true desire connected to the gratitude and the action that makes it happen.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“If you’re going to dream, dream big.” - Leia Ward

More about Leia Ward:

LTW Design is an award-winning staging design firm specializing in

exclusive luxury properties. Named one of the ‘Top 10 Luxury Stagers’

in the country, the firm’s expertise is limitless. With an expansive

inventory of furniture, accessories and artwork, their strategic interior

marketing approach helps to sell homes swiftly and at top market

Value. Founder & Principal Leia T. Ward is a one-of-a kind uniquely qualified

leader in the real estate staging industry. Professionally trained and

using the most innovative marketing techniques, Leia & her team have

staged the most exclusive homes in the Northeast ranging from $1M-

$20M, including the residence of Bruce Willis + Emma Hemming.

Known for her attention to detail and forever inspired by her world

travels, Leia has remarkable talent for blending textures, natural light

and clean lines in every project. The LTW brand has a signature style

of casual sophistication, creating calm and beautifully balanced

spaces.

Clients today benefit from her exceptional communication, project

management and problem solving skills mastered during her 10 years

working in the television and magazine industries in New York City.

She has developed a unique ability to understand her client’s needs

— which has been a key part of LTW Design’s success.

Her trademark aesthetic of clean lines, bold neutrals and layered

textures has been featured in magazines and websites including

House Beautiful, Town & Country, CTC&G, New England Living,

PureWow, Serendipity, Access Hollywood and more.

Connect with Leia Ward:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio, a software that helps you get paid faster, save time on admin work and manage your projects more efficiently. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#467

#76

#123

#396

#545

]]> 3426 no 740: Flashback Friday: Laurence Carr: Foundation for Success in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/740-flashback-friday-laurence-carr-foundation-for-success-in-interior-design On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we’re revisiting with Laurence Carr, a Manhattan-based designer who had two careers before settling on design. Learn why she formed an advisory council to coach her new business and why sticking to her core business strategy has led to her rapid success. Pick it apart: [6:52] Laurence speaks about how her advisory board works.   [18:32] Laurence speaks about the sustainability mission for her business   [21:37] Laurence tells about how her eBook magazine supports her email list   [22:57] Laurence explains how her previous job influenced her own business   [29:07] Laurence explains how she works with freelance designers    [35:18] Laurence explains how she hires freelance designers   [42:12] Laurence shares about her online affiliate brand marketing   [55:22] Laurence talks about her quarterly strategy meetings LuAnn and Laurence Carr's Ah-Ha moments: “We talk about designing rooms, environments, space - but we have to know how to design a strategy as well.” - Laurence Carr “Design the career you want to have.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Laurence Carr Website Facebook Instagram Youtube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet has been a pillar vendor since the beginning of Window Works. They are also an original show sponsor. I just want to say thank you to Kravet for believing in this design community and for helping the show become a reality. Explore the entire library of guaranteed in-stock fabrics at kravet.com. And get 10% off using coupon code AWDB10. Fri, 21 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Laurence Carr: Foundation for Success in Interior Design full 740 LuAnn Nigara On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we’re revisiting with Laurence Carr, a Manhattan-based designer who had two careers before settling on design. Learn why she formed an advisory... On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we’re revisiting with Laurence Carr, a Manhattan-based designer who had two careers before settling on design. Learn why she formed an advisory council to coach her new business and why sticking to her core business strategy has led to her rapid success. Pick it apart: [6:52] Laurence speaks about how her advisory board works.   [18:32] Laurence speaks about the sustainability mission for her business   [21:37] Laurence tells about how her eBook magazine supports her email list   [22:57] Laurence explains how her previous job influenced her own business   [29:07] Laurence explains how she works with freelance designers    [35:18] Laurence explains how she hires freelance designers   [42:12] Laurence shares about her online affiliate brand marketing   [55:22] Laurence talks about her quarterly strategy meetings LuAnn and Laurence Carr's Ah-Ha moments: “We talk about designing rooms, environments, space - but we have to know how to design a strategy as well.” - Laurence Carr “Design the career you want to have.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Laurence Carr Website Facebook Instagram Youtube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet has been a pillar vendor since the beginning of Window Works. They are also an original show sponsor. I just want to say thank you to Kravet for believing in this design community and for helping the show become a reality. Explore the entire library of guaranteed in-stock fabrics at kravet.com. And get 10% off using coupon code AWDB10. On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we’re revisiting with Laurence Carr, a Manhattan-based designer who had two careers before settling on design. Learn why she formed an advisory council to coach her new business and why sticking to her core business strategy has led to her rapid success. Pick it apart: [6:52] Laurence speaks about how her advisory board works.

 

[18:32] Laurence speaks about the sustainability mission for her business

 

[21:37] Laurence tells about how her eBook magazine supports her email list

 

[22:57] Laurence explains how her previous job influenced her own business

 

[29:07] Laurence explains how she works with freelance designers 

 

[35:18] Laurence explains how she hires freelance designers

 

[42:12] Laurence shares about her online affiliate brand marketing

 

[55:22] Laurence talks about her quarterly strategy meetings

LuAnn and Laurence Carr's Ah-Ha moments:

“We talk about designing rooms, environments, space - but we have to know how to design a strategy as well.” - Laurence Carr

“Design the career you want to have.” - LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Laurence Carr

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Youtube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet has been a pillar vendor since the beginning of Window Works. They are also an original show sponsor. I just want to say thank you to Kravet for believing in this design community and for helping the show become a reality. Explore the entire library of guaranteed in-stock fabrics at kravet.com. And get 10% off using coupon code AWDB10.

]]> 4212 no 739: Marianna Zimmerman: It's Never Too Late to Design Your Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/739-marianna-zimmermanits-never-too-late-to-design-your-life Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC.  "Your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination." This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need. Pick it apart:   [7:00] After 20-30 years, Marianna tells us how she got into design. [19:15] Marianna tells us about the makeup of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC. [21:25] Marianna explains her fee structure and advice on how to charge clients.   [45:00] Advice on taking the leap to starting your business. LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It's more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” - Marianna Zimmerman    “Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” - Marianna Zimmerman   “You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you're on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Marianna Zimmerman: Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.   She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.   Marianna believes "great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to." She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto "your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination"... The Best is yet to come!   While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that "one unique piece" that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.   She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, "think outside the box" flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client's specific style and needs. Connect with Marianna Zimmerman: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio’s 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you’re dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains – no matter how well you’ve weathered the storm, no doubt you’ve felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ – and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.   Other Shows Mentioned: # 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 # 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm # 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business # 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details # 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why Tue, 18 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Marianna Zimmerman: It's Never Too Late to Design Your Life full 739 LuAnn Nigara Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC.  "Your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination." This quote from... Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC.  "Your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination." This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need. Pick it apart:   [7:00] After 20-30 years, Marianna tells us how she got into design. [19:15] Marianna tells us about the makeup of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC. [21:25] Marianna explains her fee structure and advice on how to charge clients.   [45:00] Advice on taking the leap to starting your business. LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It's more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” - Marianna Zimmerman    “Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” - Marianna Zimmerman   “You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you're on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Marianna Zimmerman: Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.   She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.   Marianna believes "great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to." She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto "your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination"... The Best is yet to come!   While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that "one unique piece" that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.   She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, "think outside the box" flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client's specific style and needs. Connect with Marianna Zimmerman: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio’s 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you’re dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains – no matter how well you’ve weathered the storm, no doubt you’ve felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ – and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.   Other Shows Mentioned: # 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 # 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm # 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business # 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details # 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why Today with Marianna Zimmerman

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC. 

"Your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination." This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need.

Pick it apart:

 

  • [7:00] After 20-30 years, Marianna tells us how she got into design.

    [19:15] Marianna tells us about the makeup of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC.

    [21:25] Marianna explains her fee structure and advice on how to charge clients.  

    [45:00] Advice on taking the leap to starting your business.

LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It's more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” - Marianna Zimmerman 

 

“Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” - Marianna Zimmerman

 

“You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you're on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” - LuAnn Nigara

More about Marianna Zimmerman:

Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business.

 

She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011.

 

Marianna believes "great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to." She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto "your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination"... The Best is yet to come!

 

While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that "one unique piece" that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project.

 

She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, "think outside the box" flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client's specific style and needs.

Connect with Marianna Zimmerman:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma:

Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio’s 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you’re dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains – no matter how well you’ve weathered the storm, no doubt you’ve felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ – and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

# 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017

# 203 Darla Powell- How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

# 455 Megan Molten- Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business

# 631 Ariella Horowitz- Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details

# 677 Megan Molten- To Succeed, Focus on Your Why

]]> 3647 no 738: Power Talk Friday: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-tanya-dalton-impactful-goal-setting Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business. More About Beth Bender: Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency.  Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability.  Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today.  Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success. Connect with Beth Bender: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet Inc. has been here since the very beginning, helping me help you is a pretty incredible thing. If you have not opened your trade account with Krravet, yet, please go to kravet.com. No minimums per order or per year. Go to kravet.com today and use the code awdb10 to get 10% off any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim.    Other Shows Mentioned #575 WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539 Sara Lynn Brennan: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463     Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Beth Bender: Back End Operations for Your Interior Design Firm full 738 LuAnn Nigara Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design... Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business. More About Beth Bender: Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency.  Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability.  Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today.  Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success. Connect with Beth Bender: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet Inc. has been here since the very beginning, helping me help you is a pretty incredible thing. If you have not opened your trade account with Krravet, yet, please go to kravet.com. No minimums per order or per year. Go to kravet.com today and use the code awdb10 to get 10% off any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim.    Other Shows Mentioned #575 WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539 Sara Lynn Brennan: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463     Today with Beth Bender:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions.

With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business.

More About Beth Bender:

Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency.

 Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability.

 Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today.

 Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success.

Connect with Beth Bender:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet Inc. has been here since the very beginning, helping me help you is a pretty incredible thing. If you have not opened your trade account with Krravet, yet, please go to kravet.com. No minimums per order or per year. Go to kravet.com today and use the code awdb10 to get 10% off any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned

#575

WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539

Sara Lynn Brennan: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463

 

 

]]> 4761 no 737: What Would Lu Do?: Honor Your Best Self When Setting Your Goals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/737-what-would-lu-do-honor-your-best-self-when-setting-your-goals Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is a follow-up to last week’s show where I suggested a framework for setting meaningful goals for your business. If you missed it, go ahead and listen to Episode 735 for all the background details of the DTBE goal-setting framework. In today's episode, I am going to share a story and a lesson based on the first step of the DTBE goal-setting framework— The D for Design. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: WWLD #735   What We Talked About: Self-Care with S.A.S.S. 5-Day Challenge! The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn Today's Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio's 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you're dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ - and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.   Tue, 11 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Honor Your Best Self When Setting Your Goals full 737 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is a follow-up to last week’s show where I suggested a framework for setting meaningful goals for your business. If you missed it, go ahead and listen to Episode 735 for... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is a follow-up to last week’s show where I suggested a framework for setting meaningful goals for your business. If you missed it, go ahead and listen to Episode 735 for all the background details of the DTBE goal-setting framework. In today's episode, I am going to share a story and a lesson based on the first step of the DTBE goal-setting framework— The D for Design. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: WWLD #735   What We Talked About: Self-Care with S.A.S.S. 5-Day Challenge! The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn Today's Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio's 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you're dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ - and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.   Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is a follow-up to last week’s show where I suggested a framework for setting meaningful goals for your business. If you missed it, go ahead and listen to Episode 735 for all the background details of the DTBE goal-setting framework. In today's episode, I am going to share a story and a lesson based on the first step of the DTBE goal-setting framework— The D for Design.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

WWLD #735

 

What We Talked About:

Self-Care with S.A.S.S. 5-Day Challenge!

The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn

Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma:

Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio's 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you're dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ - and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.

 

]]> 1488 no 736: Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/736-power-talk-friday-buildlane-innovating-custom-furniture-creation Today with Frank Eybsen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we speak with Frank Eybsen, founder of Buildlane. Buildlane’s mantra is to make custom easy for designers. We all know how daunting the custom process can be. Whether you are near or far, seasoned or new, Buildlane provides an experienced team and talented builders to carry out your specific custom furniture needs. Tune in to learn how to join the Buildlane platform and all of its wonderful benefits. Hint: Your Buildlane experience will leave you with an unexpected custom education.   Pick it apart: easy for interior designers.    [14:45] Frank explains all of the different opportunities to specify custom furniture through Buildlane.    [29:28] Frank tells us the criteria for someone to be a part of Buildlane and also how a designer is given the opportunity to meet and get to know their builder.   [35:45] Frank explains the benefits of their templates program and how to use it.    [43:48] We learn the difference between 8 way hand tied versus springs.   [47:33] LuAnn and Frank discuss how Buildlane has come at the right time, in terms of being eco friendly they can make it happen, especially with the help of Carla Pile.   [54:53] Frank tells us how designers can get signed up for a trade account with Buildlane. LuAnn and Frank Eybsen's Ah-Ha moments: “Working with Buildlane you will have an extension of your own design team that is entirely in charge of managing your production.” - Frank Eybsen   “From designers who are really green to experienced designers from big firms, everybody comes in with some knowledge gaps. The amazing thing that's happened with Buildland is that we’re educating people throughout the process. They learn that the mistakes that could have happened, didn't happen.” - Frank Eybsen   “I love the transparency of being able to see the piece of furniture all through the process.” - LuAnn Nigara   “With the sit test for those who can’t test the quality of the furniture before they order, we like to say to designers to have your client sit in something and tell us what it is that they loved, and we’ll be able to reproduce that. We know what everybody is building with and what materials they are using.” - Frank Eybsen   “Truly I think the biggest thing with pricing has to do with the workforce behind the work. You can tell when you look at the details in the craftsmanship.” - Frank Eybsen Connect with Frank Eybsen Website  Instagram More About Frank Eybsen: Frank Eybsen is an entrepreneur in the home industry from Los Angeles, California. While originally a fixture in the LA Tech Startup, his love for building things and manufacturing led him to the heart of furniture production in California - South Los Angeles. It was here that he received a hands-on education in upholstery and case good construction. This experience led to the founding of Buildlane - a platform where the country’s best craftspeople come together with the country’s most creative designers to create custom furniture. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to Buildlane for sponsoring this show! Fri, 07 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation full 736 LuAnn Nigara Today with Frank Eybsen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we speak with Frank Eybsen, founder of Buildlane. Buildlane’s mantra is to make custom easy for designers. We all know how daunting the custom process can be. Whether you are... Today with Frank Eybsen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we speak with Frank Eybsen, founder of Buildlane. Buildlane’s mantra is to make custom easy for designers. We all know how daunting the custom process can be. Whether you are near or far, seasoned or new, Buildlane provides an experienced team and talented builders to carry out your specific custom furniture needs. Tune in to learn how to join the Buildlane platform and all of its wonderful benefits. Hint: Your Buildlane experience will leave you with an unexpected custom education.   Pick it apart: easy for interior designers.    [14:45] Frank explains all of the different opportunities to specify custom furniture through Buildlane.    [29:28] Frank tells us the criteria for someone to be a part of Buildlane and also how a designer is given the opportunity to meet and get to know their builder.   [35:45] Frank explains the benefits of their templates program and how to use it.    [43:48] We learn the difference between 8 way hand tied versus springs.   [47:33] LuAnn and Frank discuss how Buildlane has come at the right time, in terms of being eco friendly they can make it happen, especially with the help of Carla Pile.   [54:53] Frank tells us how designers can get signed up for a trade account with Buildlane. LuAnn and Frank Eybsen's Ah-Ha moments: “Working with Buildlane you will have an extension of your own design team that is entirely in charge of managing your production.” - Frank Eybsen   “From designers who are really green to experienced designers from big firms, everybody comes in with some knowledge gaps. The amazing thing that's happened with Buildland is that we’re educating people throughout the process. They learn that the mistakes that could have happened, didn't happen.” - Frank Eybsen   “I love the transparency of being able to see the piece of furniture all through the process.” - LuAnn Nigara   “With the sit test for those who can’t test the quality of the furniture before they order, we like to say to designers to have your client sit in something and tell us what it is that they loved, and we’ll be able to reproduce that. We know what everybody is building with and what materials they are using.” - Frank Eybsen   “Truly I think the biggest thing with pricing has to do with the workforce behind the work. You can tell when you look at the details in the craftsmanship.” - Frank Eybsen Connect with Frank Eybsen Website  Instagram More About Frank Eybsen: Frank Eybsen is an entrepreneur in the home industry from Los Angeles, California. While originally a fixture in the LA Tech Startup, his love for building things and manufacturing led him to the heart of furniture production in California - South Los Angeles. It was here that he received a hands-on education in upholstery and case good construction. This experience led to the founding of Buildlane - a platform where the country’s best craftspeople come together with the country’s most creative designers to create custom furniture. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to Buildlane for sponsoring this show! Today with Frank Eybsen: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we speak with Frank Eybsen, founder of Buildlane. Buildlane’s mantra is to make custom easy for designers. We all know how daunting the custom process can be. Whether you are near or far, seasoned or new, Buildlane provides an experienced team and talented builders to carry out your specific custom furniture needs. Tune in to learn how to join the Buildlane platform and all of its wonderful benefits. Hint: Your Buildlane experience will leave you with an unexpected custom education.  

Pick it apart:

  • easy for interior designers. 

     

    [14:45] Frank explains all of the different opportunities to specify custom furniture through Buildlane. 

     

    [29:28] Frank tells us the criteria for someone to be a part of Buildlane and also how a designer is given the opportunity to meet and get to know their builder.

     

    [35:45] Frank explains the benefits of their templates program and how to use it. 

     

    [43:48] We learn the difference between 8 way hand tied versus springs.

     

    [47:33] LuAnn and Frank discuss how Buildlane has come at the right time, in terms of being eco friendly they can make it happen, especially with the help of Carla Pile.

     

    [54:53] Frank tells us how designers can get signed up for a trade account with Buildlane.

LuAnn and Frank Eybsen's Ah-Ha moments:

“Working with Buildlane you will have an extension of your own design team that is entirely in charge of managing your production.” - Frank Eybsen

 

“From designers who are really green to experienced designers from big firms, everybody comes in with some knowledge gaps. The amazing thing that's happened with Buildland is that we’re educating people throughout the process. They learn that the mistakes that could have happened, didn't happen.” - Frank Eybsen

 

“I love the transparency of being able to see the piece of furniture all through the process.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“With the sit test for those who can’t test the quality of the furniture before they order, we like to say to designers to have your client sit in something and tell us what it is that they loved, and we’ll be able to reproduce that. We know what everybody is building with and what materials they are using.” - Frank Eybsen

 

“Truly I think the biggest thing with pricing has to do with the workforce behind the work. You can tell when you look at the details in the craftsmanship.” - Frank Eybsen

Connect with Frank Eybsen

Website 

Instagram

More About Frank Eybsen:

Frank Eybsen is an entrepreneur in the home industry from Los Angeles, California. While originally a fixture in the LA Tech Startup, his love for building things and manufacturing led him to the heart of furniture production in California - South Los Angeles. It was here that he received a hands-on education in upholstery and case good construction. This experience led to the founding of Buildlane - a platform where the country’s best craftspeople come together with the country’s most creative designers to create custom furniture.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Thank you to Buildlane for sponsoring this show!

]]> 3716 no 735: What Would Lu Do?: Goal Setting 2022: Decide To Be Excellent! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/735-what-would-lu-do-goal-setting-2022-decide-to-be-excellent Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is the first show of the new year, so let's work together and make sure 2022 is a productive and profitable year! In this episode, I will be talking about goal setting and strategies that can help us all tackle the year ahead.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: Sara Brennan: #463, #514, #524, #607.  Shea McGee: #236, #270 Amber Lewis: #169, #184 Jacklyn Marie: #515 Demetrious Robinson: #687 Cheryl Luckett: #292, #397, #573 The Vogue Room Foundation and The Vogue Room Interior Foundation started by Ebony Staten of The Vogue Room Inside Voice Outside Voice Tue, 04 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Goal Setting 2022: Decide To Be Excellent! full 735 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is the first show of the new year, so let's work together and make sure 2022 is a productive and profitable year! In this episode, I will be talking about goal setting and... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is the first show of the new year, so let's work together and make sure 2022 is a productive and profitable year! In this episode, I will be talking about goal setting and strategies that can help us all tackle the year ahead.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: Sara Brennan: #463, #514, #524, #607.  Shea McGee: #236, #270 Amber Lewis: #169, #184 Jacklyn Marie: #515 Demetrious Robinson: #687 Cheryl Luckett: #292, #397, #573 The Vogue Room Foundation and The Vogue Room Interior Foundation started by Ebony Staten of The Vogue Room Inside Voice Outside Voice Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is the first show of the new year, so let's work together and make sure 2022 is a productive and profitable year! In this episode, I will be talking about goal setting and strategies that can help us all tackle the year ahead. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Sara Brennan: #463, #514, #524, #607. 

Shea McGee: #236, #270

Amber Lewis: #169, #184

Jacklyn Marie: #515

Demetrious Robinson: #687

Cheryl Luckett: #292, #397, #573

The Vogue Room Foundation and The Vogue Room Interior Foundation started by Ebony Staten of The Vogue Room

Inside Voice Outside Voice

]]> 1443 no 734: Power Talk Friday: Chelsie Butler: Tips from the Executive Editor of Kitchen Bath & Business, the Official Publication of KBIS http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/734-power-talk-friday-chelsie-butler-tips-from-the-executive-editor-of-kitchen-bath-business-the-official-publication-of-kbis Today with Chelsie Butler:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Today I am joined by Chelsie Butler. Chelsie is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. I think we can all agree that to be featured in a magazine would be amazing! Today, Chelsie explains not only the benefits of being published in a trade magazine, but also the best practices on how to approach a trade magazine. I think you’ll be excited to learn all of the opportunities available to designers that Kitchen & Bath Business offers. From the KBB Person of the Year to being a guest on the podcast to being a judge at their awards program, Kitchen & Bath Business is much more accessible than you would think, to market your business.  Pick it apart: [1:55] Chelsie explains to LuAnn the criteria and qualifications of how someone can become KBB’s Person of the Year.   [9:20] This is where Chelsie and LuAnn start to pick apart all of the benefits of being published in a trade magazine.   [18:40] Chelsie explains how the case is not always KBB finding the designer and doing a Q&A, but that a designer can pitch themselves, a topic, AND write the article.   [28:45] Chelsie and LuAnn offer information and reassurance about nominating yourself for an awards program or Person of the Year.   [35:15] Chelsie talks about the editorial advisory board and how you can be involved in that. LuAnn and Chelsie Butler’s Ah-Ha moments: “In terms of being published in a trade magazine, you’re able to elevate yourself among your peers.” - Chelsie Butler   “When you submit yourself for the magazine, it’s not just the end result of being selected, which is exciting, but it’s also the creation of the relationships with the editors, writers, other designers etc. Sometimes the benefit is truly the building of the relationship because you can trace back so many other benefits that result from the relationship.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We want to show the pretty projects and pictures, but we want the audience to come away learning something. The more information we can get from the designers, the more likely we will be able to feature your project.” - Chelsie Butler   “We’re open to the designer actually writing the article and then I will edit it. We’ve worked with designers where there has been a lot of editing, and then after several more articles there is minimal editing. We’ve worked with designers where there is minimal editing right off the bat.” - Chelsie Butler   “As a content creator, you are putting a magazine out, you are putting the podcast out, you are putting the webinar out, you are probably spending 60% of your week looking for people and ideas. So anybody that puts their hand up and expresses interest, that is a win win. It’s an opportunity for the person and less research that you have to do.” - LuAnn Nigara   “When submitting your project, professional photos are what we are looking for if you have that.” - Chelsie Butler Connect with Chelsie Butler Website Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  LinkedIn More About Chelsie Butler: Chelsie Butler is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. She has been an editor for various trade magazines in the Atlanta area since graduating from the University of Florida with a journalism degree in 1993. Titles relevant to her current position have included Atlanta Home Improvement, Commercial Construction, Hospitality Construction and Commercial Kitchens magazines, as well as Design:Retail, a KBB sister publication. She has participated in panels at multiple industry events, including Coverings, KBIS and ICFF, and during her time in her current position, the magazine has won two prestigious Azbee awards and one from Trade Association Business Publications International. Besides her career, another of Chelsie’s passions is volunteering at local animal rescue shelters, which she has been involved with for 10 years. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. But instead of continuing to run up-hill, it's time to pause, and join me, and Mydoma, for 19H: The Re-think on January 19th, 2022. This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will have you rethink your mindset, rethink your business model, and rethink your marketing with a number of presentations that come with fresh, actionable advice, and helpful tools and templates. Just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get your ticket at: http://mydomastudio.com/19hluann Fri, 31 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Chelsie Butler: Tips from the Executive Editor of Kitchen Bath & Business, the Official Publication of KBIS full 734 LuAnn Nigara Today with Chelsie Butler:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Today I am joined by Chelsie Butler. Chelsie is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen and... Today with Chelsie Butler:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Today I am joined by Chelsie Butler. Chelsie is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. I think we can all agree that to be featured in a magazine would be amazing! Today, Chelsie explains not only the benefits of being published in a trade magazine, but also the best practices on how to approach a trade magazine. I think you’ll be excited to learn all of the opportunities available to designers that Kitchen & Bath Business offers. From the KBB Person of the Year to being a guest on the podcast to being a judge at their awards program, Kitchen & Bath Business is much more accessible than you would think, to market your business.  Pick it apart: [1:55] Chelsie explains to LuAnn the criteria and qualifications of how someone can become KBB’s Person of the Year.   [9:20] This is where Chelsie and LuAnn start to pick apart all of the benefits of being published in a trade magazine.   [18:40] Chelsie explains how the case is not always KBB finding the designer and doing a Q&A, but that a designer can pitch themselves, a topic, AND write the article.   [28:45] Chelsie and LuAnn offer information and reassurance about nominating yourself for an awards program or Person of the Year.   [35:15] Chelsie talks about the editorial advisory board and how you can be involved in that. LuAnn and Chelsie Butler’s Ah-Ha moments: “In terms of being published in a trade magazine, you’re able to elevate yourself among your peers.” - Chelsie Butler   “When you submit yourself for the magazine, it’s not just the end result of being selected, which is exciting, but it’s also the creation of the relationships with the editors, writers, other designers etc. Sometimes the benefit is truly the building of the relationship because you can trace back so many other benefits that result from the relationship.” - LuAnn Nigara   “We want to show the pretty projects and pictures, but we want the audience to come away learning something. The more information we can get from the designers, the more likely we will be able to feature your project.” - Chelsie Butler   “We’re open to the designer actually writing the article and then I will edit it. We’ve worked with designers where there has been a lot of editing, and then after several more articles there is minimal editing. We’ve worked with designers where there is minimal editing right off the bat.” - Chelsie Butler   “As a content creator, you are putting a magazine out, you are putting the podcast out, you are putting the webinar out, you are probably spending 60% of your week looking for people and ideas. So anybody that puts their hand up and expresses interest, that is a win win. It’s an opportunity for the person and less research that you have to do.” - LuAnn Nigara   “When submitting your project, professional photos are what we are looking for if you have that.” - Chelsie Butler Connect with Chelsie Butler Website Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  LinkedIn More About Chelsie Butler: Chelsie Butler is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. She has been an editor for various trade magazines in the Atlanta area since graduating from the University of Florida with a journalism degree in 1993. Titles relevant to her current position have included Atlanta Home Improvement, Commercial Construction, Hospitality Construction and Commercial Kitchens magazines, as well as Design:Retail, a KBB sister publication. She has participated in panels at multiple industry events, including Coverings, KBIS and ICFF, and during her time in her current position, the magazine has won two prestigious Azbee awards and one from Trade Association Business Publications International. Besides her career, another of Chelsie’s passions is volunteering at local animal rescue shelters, which she has been involved with for 10 years. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. But instead of continuing to run up-hill, it's time to pause, and join me, and Mydoma, for 19H: The Re-think on January 19th, 2022. This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will have you rethink your mindset, rethink your business model, and rethink your marketing with a number of presentations that come with fresh, actionable advice, and helpful tools and templates. Just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get your ticket at: http://mydomastudio.com/19hluann Today with Chelsie Butler: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Today I am joined by Chelsie Butler. Chelsie is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show.

I think we can all agree that to be featured in a magazine would be amazing! Today, Chelsie explains not only the benefits of being published in a trade magazine, but also the best practices on how to approach a trade magazine. I think you’ll be excited to learn all of the opportunities available to designers that Kitchen & Bath Business offers. From the KBB Person of the Year to being a guest on the podcast to being a judge at their awards program, Kitchen & Bath Business is much more accessible than you would think, to market your business. 

Pick it apart:

[1:55] Chelsie explains to LuAnn the criteria and qualifications of how someone can become KBB’s Person of the Year.

 

[9:20] This is where Chelsie and LuAnn start to pick apart all of the benefits of being published in a trade magazine.

 

[18:40] Chelsie explains how the case is not always KBB finding the designer and doing a Q&A, but that a designer can pitch themselves, a topic, AND write the article.

 

[28:45] Chelsie and LuAnn offer information and reassurance about nominating yourself for an awards program or Person of the Year.

 

[35:15] Chelsie talks about the editorial advisory board and how you can be involved in that.

LuAnn and Chelsie Butler’s Ah-Ha moments:

“In terms of being published in a trade magazine, you’re able to elevate yourself among your peers.” - Chelsie Butler

 

“When you submit yourself for the magazine, it’s not just the end result of being selected, which is exciting, but it’s also the creation of the relationships with the editors, writers, other designers etc. Sometimes the benefit is truly the building of the relationship because you can trace back so many other benefits that result from the relationship.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“We want to show the pretty projects and pictures, but we want the audience to come away learning something. The more information we can get from the designers, the more likely we will be able to feature your project.” - Chelsie Butler

 

“We’re open to the designer actually writing the article and then I will edit it. We’ve worked with designers where there has been a lot of editing, and then after several more articles there is minimal editing. We’ve worked with designers where there is minimal editing right off the bat.” - Chelsie Butler

 

“As a content creator, you are putting a magazine out, you are putting the podcast out, you are putting the webinar out, you are probably spending 60% of your week looking for people and ideas. So anybody that puts their hand up and expresses interest, that is a win win. It’s an opportunity for the person and less research that you have to do.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“When submitting your project, professional photos are what we are looking for if you have that.” - Chelsie Butler

Connect with Chelsie Butler

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Twitter 

LinkedIn

More About Chelsie Butler:

Chelsie Butler is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. She has been an editor for various trade magazines in the Atlanta area since graduating from the University of Florida with a journalism degree in 1993. Titles relevant to her current position have included Atlanta Home Improvement, Commercial Construction, Hospitality Construction and Commercial Kitchens magazines, as well as Design:Retail, a KBB sister publication. She has participated in panels at multiple industry events, including Coverings, KBIS and ICFF, and during her time in her current position, the magazine has won two prestigious Azbee awards and one from Trade Association Business Publications International. Besides her career, another of Chelsie’s passions is volunteering at local animal rescue shelters, which she has been involved with for 10 years.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma:

There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. But instead of continuing to run up-hill, it's time to pause, and join me, and Mydoma, for 19H: The Re-think on January 19th, 2022. This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will have you rethink your mindset, rethink your business model, and rethink your marketing with a number of presentations that come with fresh, actionable advice, and helpful tools and templates. Just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get your ticket at: http://mydomastudio.com/19hluann

]]> 3157 no 733: Ippolita Rostagno: From Vision to Business Enterprise http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/733-ippolita-rostagno-from-vision-to-business-enterprise Today with Ippolita Rostagno Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Ippolita Rostagno, founder of her eponymous 20 year-old jewelry brand, and co-founder of the luxury e-tailer, Artemest.com. While taking a leave of absence from her jewelry company, Ippolita learned to trust her professional intuition through all of her challenges, from people saying “no,” to certain technological challenges.   Ippolita and I discussed the, “Come to Jesus” moments she faced with her jewelry business and while building Artemest.com. We discuss the importance of recognizing “failure,” to fail quickly, and to listen to your intuition. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to temporarily leave IPPOLITA Jewelry. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to buy back her jewelry company, grow it, while also growing Artemest from 60 artisans to 2000. This is a good one, folks! Pick it apart:   [9:15] Ippolita explains how she gained the trust of the artisans in Italy who had resistance to sell online in addition to questioning how the beauty and detail of their craft could be portrayed. [17:50] Ippolita talks about how instinct and knowledge let her know that there are potential customers for these artisans and where there is demand.  [21:57] Surprising lessons that Ippolita has learned along the way.  [31:00] Ippolita and LuAnn discuss how not giving up, reflecting, and being persistent will lead to success, with examples. [42:00] Ippolita explains how Artemest works. LuAnn and Ippolita Rostagno’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you just start to research your industry, you can make choices along the way that really inform your path.” - Ippolita Rostagno   “Execution is everything!” - Ippolita Rostagno   “We say all the time, if you’re not making any mistakes then you’re just playing it too safe and you really aren’t stretching yourself in any way, shape or form. But it’s easy to forget that all of us make mistakes, no matter how amazing, we look at Artemest and think how everything must have been so easy.” - LuAnn Nigara   “Living a life that is full of love and satisfaction is very important and I think it looks different for everyone. You can't be motivated by money, you have to be motivated by your passion. It's all going to take a lot of work. Being an entrepreneur means that you have a certain kind of courage to not align yourself to any one process; that you're willing to find a solution. Put your money where your mouth is, devoting your time, energy, and resources to making your dream come true.” - Ippolita Rostagno   “It’s a good reminder that when we look at two of your businesses, how lucky they are, but there was a lot of intentional strategizing to make them happen. We can take those lessons to our own businesses; interior design firms, architecture firms, photography firms….” - LuAnn Nigara More about Ippolita Rostagno: Born and raised in the hills of Florence, Ippolita has always been inspired by the richness and simplicity of Italian culture. As a young girl, she discovered her love for jewelry in the shops and stalls of Ponte Vecchio. An artist first and a designer second, Ippolita studied sculpture and ceramics for five years at the Istituto D’Arte in Florence. After working in bronze and stone on large-scale works, Ippolita was inspired to apply her aesthetic to the world of adornment when she launched her eponymous jewelry collection in 1999 in New York with Bergdorf Goodman. A reverence for women and the female body has informed her style and her design vocabulary from the start. Her highly personal approach to fine jewelry is expressed in the sculptural nature of the organic shapes of her precious metals. A proprietary blend of 18K Gold and other precious metals creates a distinctive “green” hue, flattering to all skin types while her 925 Silver is a color with a brilliance all its own. The stone cuts Ippolita uses are characterized by their artfully random, larger-than-normal facets that conspire to create plays of light and shadow against the skin. Ippolita’s jewelry is an encounter with beauty. That beauty is an experience shared – between seller and buyer, wearer and creator, lover and loved one, devotee and neophyte. It is generous, participatory, outward-facing, welcoming, and open to all. “Beauty in our everyday lives brings joy to the human experience and fosters a culture of care.”    “Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.”   “I want to sculpt feminine ease using shape and form in organic unity. Celebrating raw materials while also revealing evidence of the maker’s hand. All the while investing in wearable certainty.”   “Wear the mark of the maker. Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.” Connect with Ippolita Rostagno: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: # 40 Meryl Santopietro- How to Re-invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years.    # 540 Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Product Development Tue, 28 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Ippolita Rostagno: From Vision to Business Enterprise full 733 LuAnn Nigara Today with Ippolita Rostagno Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Ippolita Rostagno, founder of her eponymous 20 year-old jewelry brand, and co-founder of the luxury e-tailer, . While taking a leave of absence from her... Today with Ippolita Rostagno Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Ippolita Rostagno, founder of her eponymous 20 year-old jewelry brand, and co-founder of the luxury e-tailer, Artemest.com. While taking a leave of absence from her jewelry company, Ippolita learned to trust her professional intuition through all of her challenges, from people saying “no,” to certain technological challenges.   Ippolita and I discussed the, “Come to Jesus” moments she faced with her jewelry business and while building Artemest.com. We discuss the importance of recognizing “failure,” to fail quickly, and to listen to your intuition. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to temporarily leave IPPOLITA Jewelry. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to buy back her jewelry company, grow it, while also growing Artemest from 60 artisans to 2000. This is a good one, folks! Pick it apart:   [9:15] Ippolita explains how she gained the trust of the artisans in Italy who had resistance to sell online in addition to questioning how the beauty and detail of their craft could be portrayed. [17:50] Ippolita talks about how instinct and knowledge let her know that there are potential customers for these artisans and where there is demand.  [21:57] Surprising lessons that Ippolita has learned along the way.  [31:00] Ippolita and LuAnn discuss how not giving up, reflecting, and being persistent will lead to success, with examples. [42:00] Ippolita explains how Artemest works. LuAnn and Ippolita Rostagno’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you just start to research your industry, you can make choices along the way that really inform your path.” - Ippolita Rostagno   “Execution is everything!” - Ippolita Rostagno   “We say all the time, if you’re not making any mistakes then you’re just playing it too safe and you really aren’t stretching yourself in any way, shape or form. But it’s easy to forget that all of us make mistakes, no matter how amazing, we look at Artemest and think how everything must have been so easy.” - LuAnn Nigara   “Living a life that is full of love and satisfaction is very important and I think it looks different for everyone. You can't be motivated by money, you have to be motivated by your passion. It's all going to take a lot of work. Being an entrepreneur means that you have a certain kind of courage to not align yourself to any one process; that you're willing to find a solution. Put your money where your mouth is, devoting your time, energy, and resources to making your dream come true.” - Ippolita Rostagno   “It’s a good reminder that when we look at two of your businesses, how lucky they are, but there was a lot of intentional strategizing to make them happen. We can take those lessons to our own businesses; interior design firms, architecture firms, photography firms….” - LuAnn Nigara More about Ippolita Rostagno: Born and raised in the hills of Florence, Ippolita has always been inspired by the richness and simplicity of Italian culture. As a young girl, she discovered her love for jewelry in the shops and stalls of Ponte Vecchio. An artist first and a designer second, Ippolita studied sculpture and ceramics for five years at the Istituto D’Arte in Florence. After working in bronze and stone on large-scale works, Ippolita was inspired to apply her aesthetic to the world of adornment when she launched her eponymous jewelry collection in 1999 in New York with Bergdorf Goodman. A reverence for women and the female body has informed her style and her design vocabulary from the start. Her highly personal approach to fine jewelry is expressed in the sculptural nature of the organic shapes of her precious metals. A proprietary blend of 18K Gold and other precious metals creates a distinctive “green” hue, flattering to all skin types while her 925 Silver is a color with a brilliance all its own. The stone cuts Ippolita uses are characterized by their artfully random, larger-than-normal facets that conspire to create plays of light and shadow against the skin. Ippolita’s jewelry is an encounter with beauty. That beauty is an experience shared – between seller and buyer, wearer and creator, lover and loved one, devotee and neophyte. It is generous, participatory, outward-facing, welcoming, and open to all. “Beauty in our everyday lives brings joy to the human experience and fosters a culture of care.”    “Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.”   “I want to sculpt feminine ease using shape and form in organic unity. Celebrating raw materials while also revealing evidence of the maker’s hand. All the while investing in wearable certainty.”   “Wear the mark of the maker. Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.” Connect with Ippolita Rostagno: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: # 40 Meryl Santopietro- How to Re-invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years.    # 540 Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Product Development Today with Ippolita Rostagno

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Ippolita Rostagno, founder of her eponymous 20 year-old jewelry brand, and co-founder of the luxury e-tailer, Artemest.com.

While taking a leave of absence from her jewelry company, Ippolita learned to trust her professional intuition through all of her challenges, from people saying “no,” to certain technological challenges.  

Ippolita and I discussed the, “Come to Jesus” moments she faced with her jewelry business and while building Artemest.com. We discuss the importance of recognizing “failure,” to fail quickly, and to listen to your intuition. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to temporarily leave IPPOLITA Jewelry. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to buy back her jewelry company, grow it, while also growing Artemest from 60 artisans to 2000. This is a good one, folks!

Pick it apart:

 

  • [9:15] Ippolita explains how she gained the trust of the artisans in Italy who had resistance to sell online in addition to questioning how the beauty and detail of their craft could be portrayed.
  • [17:50] Ippolita talks about how instinct and knowledge let her know that there are potential customers for these artisans and where there is demand. 
  • [21:57] Surprising lessons that Ippolita has learned along the way.
  •  [31:00] Ippolita and LuAnn discuss how not giving up, reflecting, and being persistent will lead to success, with examples.
  • [42:00] Ippolita explains how Artemest works.

LuAnn and Ippolita Rostagno’s Ah-Ha moments:

“If you just start to research your industry, you can make choices along the way that really inform your path.” - Ippolita Rostagno

 

“Execution is everything!” - Ippolita Rostagno

 

“We say all the time, if you’re not making any mistakes then you’re just playing it too safe and you really aren’t stretching yourself in any way, shape or form. But it’s easy to forget that all of us make mistakes, no matter how amazing, we look at Artemest and think how everything must have been so easy.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“Living a life that is full of love and satisfaction is very important and I think it looks different for everyone. You can't be motivated by money, you have to be motivated by your passion. It's all going to take a lot of work. Being an entrepreneur means that you have a certain kind of courage to not align yourself to any one process; that you're willing to find a solution. Put your money where your mouth is, devoting your time, energy, and resources to making your dream come true.” - Ippolita Rostagno

 

“It’s a good reminder that when we look at two of your businesses, how lucky they are, but there was a lot of intentional strategizing to make them happen. We can take those lessons to our own businesses; interior design firms, architecture firms, photography firms….” - LuAnn Nigara

More about Ippolita Rostagno:

Born and raised in the hills of Florence, Ippolita has always been inspired by the richness and simplicity of Italian culture. As a young girl, she discovered her love for jewelry in the shops and stalls of Ponte Vecchio. An artist first and a designer second, Ippolita studied sculpture and ceramics for five years at the Istituto D’Arte in Florence. After working in bronze and stone on large-scale works, Ippolita was inspired to apply her aesthetic to the world of adornment when she launched her eponymous jewelry collection in 1999 in New York with Bergdorf Goodman. A reverence for women and the female body has informed her style and her design vocabulary from the start. Her highly personal approach to fine jewelry is expressed in the sculptural nature of the organic shapes of her precious metals. A proprietary blend of 18K Gold and other precious metals creates a distinctive “green” hue, flattering to all skin types while her 925 Silver is a color with a brilliance all its own. The stone cuts Ippolita uses are characterized by their artfully random, larger-than-normal facets that conspire to create plays of light and shadow against the skin. Ippolita’s jewelry is an encounter with beauty. That beauty is an experience shared – between seller and buyer, wearer and creator, lover and loved one, devotee and neophyte. It is generous, participatory, outward-facing, welcoming, and open to all. “Beauty in our everyday lives brings joy to the human experience and fosters a culture of care.” 

 

“Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.”

 

“I want to sculpt feminine ease using shape and form in organic unity. Celebrating raw materials while also revealing evidence of the maker’s hand. All the while investing in wearable certainty.”

 

“Wear the mark of the maker. Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.”

Connect with Ippolita Rostagno:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

# 40 Meryl Santopietro- How to Re-invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years. 

 

# 540 Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Product Development

]]> 3671 no 732: Power Talk Friday: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/732-power-talk-friday-erica-courdae-incorporating-dei-practices-in-your-business Today with Erica Courdae:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Erica Courdae, diversity and inclusion coach, is packed with simple, actionable advice ensuring our conversations and workplaces reflect a sense of kindness and inclusion. She also shares what to do when we get it all wrong as we continue to learn and grow alongside our fellow humans. Pick it apart: [10:10] Erica explains simultaneous realities [13:38] Erica explains what true conversation is [15:31] LuAnn covers a critical sales mistake [24:44] Erica shares how she works with businesses [39:10] Erica advises about how to communicate DEI efforts with a new, diverse hire [44:28] Erica explains what she means by “operating on demographics without psychographics doesn’t work” LuAnn and Erica Courdae’s Ah-Ha moments: “You’re not expected to know it all or have access to everything. You just have to be willing to stay in action.” - Erica Courdae   “We are all processing through our own lens. There has to be a space of understanding.” - Erica Courdae   “It’s not okay to assume that somebody wants to be a part of something that you didn’t give them the opportunity to opt-out of.” - Erica Courdae   “There are learning opportunities in being less than perfect. If you get it all right, you’re not continuing to grow.” - Erica Courdae Connect with Erica Courdae Website Facebook Podcast Instagram Pause on the Play Podcast Community Salon Instagram LinkedIn Salon Website Erica’s FREE Imperfect Ally's Evaluation Checklist More About Erica Courdae: Erica Courdae has dedicated her life to expanding how others interact with the world through powerful conversations. As an entrepreneur and certified coach, her work is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), imperfect allyship, and imposter syndrome. This work has taken her into communities and onto national stages as a speaker and educator at noteworthy industry events like AltSummit, ShePodcasts Live, and Being Boss. Erica is also the owner of an inclusive beauty salon, Silver Immersion, and the host of Pause on the Play, a podcast that features open dialogue on topics like company culture, visibility, and mindset. She lives in Maryland with her two children. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Window Works has been having quality conversations with Kravet since the beginning. Their people know how to listen and how to deliver a premium experience and premium fabrics for both their buyer and for the end customer. For 10% off, go to kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10   Fri, 24 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Erica Courdae: Incorporating DEI Practices in Your Business full 732 LuAnn Nigara Today with Erica Courdae:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Erica Courdae, diversity and inclusion coach, is packed with simple, actionable advice ensuring our conversations and workplaces reflect a sense of kindness... Today with Erica Courdae:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Erica Courdae, diversity and inclusion coach, is packed with simple, actionable advice ensuring our conversations and workplaces reflect a sense of kindness and inclusion. She also shares what to do when we get it all wrong as we continue to learn and grow alongside our fellow humans. Pick it apart: [10:10] Erica explains simultaneous realities [13:38] Erica explains what true conversation is [15:31] LuAnn covers a critical sales mistake [24:44] Erica shares how she works with businesses [39:10] Erica advises about how to communicate DEI efforts with a new, diverse hire [44:28] Erica explains what she means by “operating on demographics without psychographics doesn’t work” LuAnn and Erica Courdae’s Ah-Ha moments: “You’re not expected to know it all or have access to everything. You just have to be willing to stay in action.” - Erica Courdae   “We are all processing through our own lens. There has to be a space of understanding.” - Erica Courdae   “It’s not okay to assume that somebody wants to be a part of something that you didn’t give them the opportunity to opt-out of.” - Erica Courdae   “There are learning opportunities in being less than perfect. If you get it all right, you’re not continuing to grow.” - Erica Courdae Connect with Erica Courdae Website Facebook Podcast Instagram Pause on the Play Podcast Community Salon Instagram LinkedIn Salon Website Erica’s FREE Imperfect Ally's Evaluation Checklist More About Erica Courdae: Erica Courdae has dedicated her life to expanding how others interact with the world through powerful conversations. As an entrepreneur and certified coach, her work is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), imperfect allyship, and imposter syndrome. This work has taken her into communities and onto national stages as a speaker and educator at noteworthy industry events like AltSummit, ShePodcasts Live, and Being Boss. Erica is also the owner of an inclusive beauty salon, Silver Immersion, and the host of Pause on the Play, a podcast that features open dialogue on topics like company culture, visibility, and mindset. She lives in Maryland with her two children. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Window Works has been having quality conversations with Kravet since the beginning. Their people know how to listen and how to deliver a premium experience and premium fabrics for both their buyer and for the end customer. For 10% off, go to kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10   Today with Erica Courdae: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Erica Courdae, diversity and inclusion coach, is packed with simple, actionable advice ensuring our conversations and workplaces reflect a sense of kindness and inclusion. She also shares what to do when we get it all wrong as we continue to learn and grow alongside our fellow humans.

Pick it apart:

[10:10] Erica explains simultaneous realities

[13:38] Erica explains what true conversation is

[15:31] LuAnn covers a critical sales mistake

[24:44] Erica shares how she works with businesses

[39:10] Erica advises about how to communicate DEI efforts with a new, diverse hire

[44:28] Erica explains what she means by “operating on demographics without psychographics doesn’t work”

LuAnn and Erica Courdae’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You’re not expected to know it all or have access to everything. You just have to be willing to stay in action.” - Erica Courdae

 

“We are all processing through our own lens. There has to be a space of understanding.” - Erica Courdae

 

“It’s not okay to assume that somebody wants to be a part of something that you didn’t give them the opportunity to opt-out of.” - Erica Courdae

 

“There are learning opportunities in being less than perfect. If you get it all right, you’re not continuing to grow.” - Erica Courdae

Connect with Erica Courdae

Website

Facebook

Podcast

Instagram

Pause on the Play Podcast Community

Salon Instagram

LinkedIn

Salon Website

Erica’s FREE Imperfect Ally's Evaluation Checklist

More About Erica Courdae:

Erica Courdae has dedicated her life to expanding how others interact with the world through powerful conversations. As an entrepreneur and certified coach, her work is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), imperfect allyship, and imposter syndrome. This work has taken her into communities and onto national stages as a speaker and educator at noteworthy industry events like AltSummit, ShePodcasts Live, and Being Boss.

Erica is also the owner of an inclusive beauty salon, Silver Immersion, and the host of Pause on the Play, a podcast that features open dialogue on topics like company culture, visibility, and mindset. She lives in Maryland with her two children.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet: Window Works has been having quality conversations with Kravet since the beginning. Their people know how to listen and how to deliver a premium experience and premium fabrics for both their buyer and for the end customer. For 10% off, go to kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10

 

]]> 4624 no 731: Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh: How She Went From Blogger to Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/chloe-mackintosh-growing-a-team-for-effective-systems-and-processes-in-your-interior-design-firm Today with Chloe Mackintosh Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m chatting with Chloe Mackintosh, the principal designer and creator of Boxwood Avenue.  Chloe and I discuss her journey from owning an Etsy shop in college, to developing a thriving blog, e-commerce / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. Moving to a town of 99 people, Chloe explains how she built a team of 12 people to help her conduct her business and formulate a proper “system and process.” Pick it apart:   [8:06] Chloe talks about how she shut down The Shop for one year and, while she is very grateful for the business that she received at the time, it’s ok to follow your intuition and put the ball down so you can put things in order and work on your other goals.    [28:07] Chloe discusses the importance of setting clear business and financial goals and how to strategize and budget in order to achieve those goals.  [39:47] Chloe and LuAnn discuss systems and processes and how digital platforms like Asana, along with their team, have been key in organizing their businesses and systems and processes. Examples and Chloe’s daily business routine included.  [48:36] Chloe shares her who, when and what in terms of her content creation process for Boxwood Avenue. [57:30] Chloe admits how assistance with systems and processes has made her more confident in conducting her business and how, “Not passing on discounts” is important as a designer. LuAnn and Chloe Mackintosh’s Ah-Ha moments: “ That’s so sweet that you’ve noticed my belief of: If not you, then who? I would agree with you. It has helped me power through many things over the years as well. If you’re not going to do it, somebody else is? What trait, skill, asset...do they have that you don’t have? Figure it out. You can get what you need to have, to do it.” -LuAnn  Nigara   “ To build a business out at the size that you built it out, it’s again recognizing that different things are not your superpower. Surround yourself with people who understand those things respect you as you respect them back and also share your goals.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Going above and beyond is important because one referral can lead to 5 referrals, that can lead to a really incredible project. Our biggest project came from Facebook, so don’t be afraid to showcase work that you are proud of, but also remember that focusing on the client’s experience and doing the best that you can do will grow your business.” -Chloe Mackintosh   “The confidence that having great systems and processes and Renee’s help with our deliverables allows me to present myself better to clients and vendors. The confidence has been a big turn-around.” -Chloe Mackintosh More about Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh is the founder and creative director of Boxwood Avenue. She is a designer, shop owner, and blogger. She began her journey at 17 years old with an Etsy shop and has since built her business into a thriving blog, e-com / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. With a growing social footprint of over 10 million impressions per month and 250,000 followers across social platforms, Chloe now leads a team of 12, all from a town with a population of 99.  Chloe has been featured by many publications including Domino and Country Living, she is a Better Homes & Gardens Stylemaker and former contributor to Martha Stewart. In addition, she leads retreats for small business owners each in Sonoma, CA at the Boxwood Avenue Creative Business Retreat and is a speaker at The Haven List Workshop for Interior Designers. With clients spanning from coast to coast, she has worked hard to develop a solid foundation of systems and processes. Today she will share how she went from not knowing what a “system or process” was to leaning on them to scale her business. Connect with Chloe Mackintosh: Boxwood Avenue Website Shop Boxwood Avenue Boxwood Avenue Design Instagram Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com. Tue, 21 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh: How She Went From Blogger to Interior Designer full 731 LuAnn Nigara Today with Chloe Mackintosh Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m chatting with Chloe Mackintosh, the principal designer and creator of Boxwood Avenue.  Chloe and I discuss her journey from owning an Etsy shop in college, to... Today with Chloe Mackintosh Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m chatting with Chloe Mackintosh, the principal designer and creator of Boxwood Avenue.  Chloe and I discuss her journey from owning an Etsy shop in college, to developing a thriving blog, e-commerce / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. Moving to a town of 99 people, Chloe explains how she built a team of 12 people to help her conduct her business and formulate a proper “system and process.” Pick it apart:   [8:06] Chloe talks about how she shut down The Shop for one year and, while she is very grateful for the business that she received at the time, it’s ok to follow your intuition and put the ball down so you can put things in order and work on your other goals.    [28:07] Chloe discusses the importance of setting clear business and financial goals and how to strategize and budget in order to achieve those goals.  [39:47] Chloe and LuAnn discuss systems and processes and how digital platforms like Asana, along with their team, have been key in organizing their businesses and systems and processes. Examples and Chloe’s daily business routine included.  [48:36] Chloe shares her who, when and what in terms of her content creation process for Boxwood Avenue. [57:30] Chloe admits how assistance with systems and processes has made her more confident in conducting her business and how, “Not passing on discounts” is important as a designer. LuAnn and Chloe Mackintosh’s Ah-Ha moments: “ That’s so sweet that you’ve noticed my belief of: If not you, then who? I would agree with you. It has helped me power through many things over the years as well. If you’re not going to do it, somebody else is? What trait, skill, asset...do they have that you don’t have? Figure it out. You can get what you need to have, to do it.” -LuAnn  Nigara   “ To build a business out at the size that you built it out, it’s again recognizing that different things are not your superpower. Surround yourself with people who understand those things respect you as you respect them back and also share your goals.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Going above and beyond is important because one referral can lead to 5 referrals, that can lead to a really incredible project. Our biggest project came from Facebook, so don’t be afraid to showcase work that you are proud of, but also remember that focusing on the client’s experience and doing the best that you can do will grow your business.” -Chloe Mackintosh   “The confidence that having great systems and processes and Renee’s help with our deliverables allows me to present myself better to clients and vendors. The confidence has been a big turn-around.” -Chloe Mackintosh More about Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh is the founder and creative director of Boxwood Avenue. She is a designer, shop owner, and blogger. She began her journey at 17 years old with an Etsy shop and has since built her business into a thriving blog, e-com / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. With a growing social footprint of over 10 million impressions per month and 250,000 followers across social platforms, Chloe now leads a team of 12, all from a town with a population of 99.  Chloe has been featured by many publications including Domino and Country Living, she is a Better Homes & Gardens Stylemaker and former contributor to Martha Stewart. In addition, she leads retreats for small business owners each in Sonoma, CA at the Boxwood Avenue Creative Business Retreat and is a speaker at The Haven List Workshop for Interior Designers. With clients spanning from coast to coast, she has worked hard to develop a solid foundation of systems and processes. Today she will share how she went from not knowing what a “system or process” was to leaning on them to scale her business. Connect with Chloe Mackintosh: Boxwood Avenue Website Shop Boxwood Avenue Boxwood Avenue Design Instagram Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com. Today with Chloe Mackintosh

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m chatting with Chloe Mackintosh, the principal designer and creator of Boxwood Avenue. 

Chloe and I discuss her journey from owning an Etsy shop in college, to developing a thriving blog, e-commerce / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. Moving to a town of 99 people, Chloe explains how she built a team of 12 people to help her conduct her business and formulate a proper “system and process.”

Pick it apart:

 

  • [8:06] Chloe talks about how she shut down The Shop for one year and, while she is very grateful for the business that she received at the time, it’s ok to follow your intuition and put the ball down so you can put things in order and work on your other goals. 

 

  • [28:07] Chloe discusses the importance of setting clear business and financial goals and how to strategize and budget in order to achieve those goals. 
  • [39:47] Chloe and LuAnn discuss systems and processes and how digital platforms like Asana, along with their team, have been key in organizing their businesses and systems and processes. Examples and Chloe’s daily business routine included. 
  • [48:36] Chloe shares her who, when and what in terms of her content creation process for Boxwood Avenue.
  • [57:30] Chloe admits how assistance with systems and processes has made her more confident in conducting her business and how, “Not passing on discounts” is important as a designer.

LuAnn and Chloe Mackintosh’s Ah-Ha moments:

“ That’s so sweet that you’ve noticed my belief of: If not you, then who? I would agree with you. It has helped me power through many things over the years as well. If you’re not going to do it, somebody else is? What trait, skill, asset...do they have that you don’t have? Figure it out. You can get what you need to have, to do it.” -LuAnn  Nigara

 

“ To build a business out at the size that you built it out, it’s again recognizing that different things are not your superpower. Surround yourself with people who understand those things respect you as you respect them back and also share your goals.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“Going above and beyond is important because one referral can lead to 5 referrals, that can lead to a really incredible project. Our biggest project came from Facebook, so don’t be afraid to showcase work that you are proud of, but also remember that focusing on the client’s experience and doing the best that you can do will grow your business.” -Chloe Mackintosh

 

“The confidence that having great systems and processes and Renee’s help with our deliverables allows me to present myself better to clients and vendors. The confidence has been a big turn-around.” -Chloe Mackintosh

More about Chloe Mackintosh:

Chloe Mackintosh is the founder and creative director of Boxwood Avenue. She is a designer, shop owner, and blogger. She began her journey at 17 years old with an Etsy shop and has since built her business into a thriving blog, e-com / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. With a growing social footprint of over 10 million impressions per month and 250,000 followers across social platforms, Chloe now leads a team of 12, all from a town with a population of 99. 

Chloe has been featured by many publications including Domino and Country Living, she is a Better Homes & Gardens Stylemaker and former contributor to Martha Stewart. In addition, she leads retreats for small business owners each in Sonoma, CA at the Boxwood Avenue Creative Business Retreat and is a speaker at The Haven List Workshop for Interior Designers. With clients spanning from coast to coast, she has worked hard to develop a solid foundation of systems and processes. Today she will share how she went from not knowing what a “system or process” was to leaning on them to scale her business.

Connect with Chloe Mackintosh:

Boxwood Avenue Website

Shop Boxwood Avenue

Boxwood Avenue Design

Instagram

Facebook 

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.

]]> 4088 no 730: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: A Legacy of Luxury and Comfort http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/730-power-talk-friday-corrine-bentzen-treat-your-clients-to-the-company-store Today with Corinne Bentzen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today is a sponsored show with The Company Store, a premier source of luxury down bedding and home products. Corinne Bentzen, CEO of The Company Store, shares the company history, their commitment to quality, focus on responsible manufacturing, and understanding that the customer comes first. Pick it apart: [9:54] Corinne share the mission of The Company Store [13:22] Corinne tells about her suppliers and responsibly created products [17:48] Corinne tells about how the pandemic has affected the company [22:22] Corinne advises designers on helping clients understand the quality of The Company Store products [25:00] Corinne shares how The Company Store works with the trade [30:43] Corinne speaks about how designers can set up a trade account LuAnn and Corinne Bentzen’s Ah-Ha moments: “We have a responsibility to make great choices for our customers.” - Corinne Bentzen   “Your home has never mattered more than now.” - Corinne Bentzen “There’s no better gift than leaving the client with a great night’s sleep.” - Corinne Bentzen Connect with Corinne Bentzen Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show!   Fri, 17 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: A Legacy of Luxury and Comfort full 730 LuAnn Nigara Today with Corinne Bentzen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today is a sponsored show with The Company Store, a premier source of luxury down bedding and home products. Corinne Bentzen, CEO of The Company Store, shares the company history,... Today with Corinne Bentzen:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today is a sponsored show with The Company Store, a premier source of luxury down bedding and home products. Corinne Bentzen, CEO of The Company Store, shares the company history, their commitment to quality, focus on responsible manufacturing, and understanding that the customer comes first. Pick it apart: [9:54] Corinne share the mission of The Company Store [13:22] Corinne tells about her suppliers and responsibly created products [17:48] Corinne tells about how the pandemic has affected the company [22:22] Corinne advises designers on helping clients understand the quality of The Company Store products [25:00] Corinne shares how The Company Store works with the trade [30:43] Corinne speaks about how designers can set up a trade account LuAnn and Corinne Bentzen’s Ah-Ha moments: “We have a responsibility to make great choices for our customers.” - Corinne Bentzen   “Your home has never mattered more than now.” - Corinne Bentzen “There’s no better gift than leaving the client with a great night’s sleep.” - Corinne Bentzen Connect with Corinne Bentzen Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show!   Today with Corinne Bentzen: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today is a sponsored show with The Company Store, a premier source of luxury down bedding and home products. Corinne Bentzen, CEO of The Company Store, shares the company history, their commitment to quality, focus on responsible manufacturing, and understanding that the customer comes first.

Pick it apart:

  • [9:54] Corinne share the mission of The Company Store

    [13:22] Corinne tells about her suppliers and responsibly created products

    [17:48] Corinne tells about how the pandemic has affected the company

    [22:22] Corinne advises designers on helping clients understand the quality of The Company Store products

    [25:00] Corinne shares how The Company Store works with the trade

    [30:43] Corinne speaks about how designers can set up a trade account

LuAnn and Corinne Bentzen’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We have a responsibility to make great choices for our customers.” - Corinne Bentzen

 

“Your home has never mattered more than now.” - Corinne Bentzen

“There’s no better gift than leaving the client with a great night’s sleep.” - Corinne Bentzen

Connect with Corinne Bentzen

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

Twitter

More About Corinne Bentzen:

Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show!

 

]]> 2398 no 729: Erica Reiner: Make More Green by Going Green http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/erica-reiner-make-more-green-by-going-green Today with Erica Reiner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Erica Reiner of Eco Method Interiors niched down and rebranded after a few years in business. Learn what prompted her big change, what she does when the scarcity mindset strikes, and how her business has changed since she stopped trying to be everything to everyone. Pick it apart: [4:04] Erica shares what prompted her rebrand [10:15] Erica shares her struggle with her scarcity mindset [24:50] Erica advises about sourcing green products [34:28] Erica tells about variable standards for green products [42:50] Erica shares her thoughts about the link between environmental and social justice [49:42] Erica and LuAnn speak about niching and overcoming the scarcity mindset LuAnn and Erica Reiner’s Ah-Ha moments: “Set up expectations early and often.” - Erica Reiner “You have to figure out what is important to you and what is going to motivate you when it gets tricky and tough”. - Erica Reiner “If you do something from your heart and explain your reasons why, no one can compete with that.”  - LuAnn Nigara More about Erica Reiner: Erica Reiner is the owner / principal designer of Eco Method Interiors, where her company helps people transform their space, health, and the planet. As an inspired interior designer specializing in cleaner and greener spaces, Erica truly can’t decide if she likes working best in residential, commercial or short-term rental sectors with all the fun that comes with each. Erica and her team are hired by clients for full service interior design, online E-design, and event styling. Since 2015, Erica has helped clients create more joy, expression, health and wellbeing through transformational design that goes deeper than aesthetics using the “Eco Method” way. Erica loves sharing her knowledge and has been featured in Better homes and Gardens, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's digest and more. Looking forward, Erica is working towards leading the home decor and design industry into a greener, cleaner place. In her spare time, she's hanging with her husband Reed and rescue mutt, Hank. Connect with Erica Reiner: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: I’ve been doing business with Kravet through Window Works for decades so I wanted to share their statement on their furniture sustainability: At Kravet Inc. we are committed to providing quality product with limited environmental impact, pairing beauty and heirloom quality materials with sustainability to support both the planet and our future generations. The Kravet Inc. legacy is impenetrably bound to environmental awareness.    On their website, at kravet.com/furniture-sustainability, they list all their sustainability efforts. Here’s a quick sampling:    Nearly all waste products are sustainably recycled at Kravet Furniture factories. Greater than 80% of the metal upholstery springs in Kravet Furniture come from recycled metal products. The foam padding in Kravet Furniture contains the highest possible content of soy in an effort to reduce petroleum-based substances.    Other Shows Mentioned: Susan Inglis: episode 670 Mike Peterson: episode 569 Deborah Rosenberg, Dimare Design: episodes 82, 117, 212, 218 Lane McNab: episodes 205, 699 Asha Jaipur Living: episode 526 Tue, 14 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Erica Reiner: Make More Green by Going Green full 729 LuAnn Nigara Today with Erica Reiner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Erica Reiner of Eco Method Interiors niched down and rebranded after a few years in business. Learn what prompted her big change, what she does when the scarcity mindset strikes, and how her... Today with Erica Reiner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Erica Reiner of Eco Method Interiors niched down and rebranded after a few years in business. Learn what prompted her big change, what she does when the scarcity mindset strikes, and how her business has changed since she stopped trying to be everything to everyone. Pick it apart: [4:04] Erica shares what prompted her rebrand [10:15] Erica shares her struggle with her scarcity mindset [24:50] Erica advises about sourcing green products [34:28] Erica tells about variable standards for green products [42:50] Erica shares her thoughts about the link between environmental and social justice [49:42] Erica and LuAnn speak about niching and overcoming the scarcity mindset LuAnn and Erica Reiner’s Ah-Ha moments: “Set up expectations early and often.” - Erica Reiner “You have to figure out what is important to you and what is going to motivate you when it gets tricky and tough”. - Erica Reiner “If you do something from your heart and explain your reasons why, no one can compete with that.”  - LuAnn Nigara More about Erica Reiner: Erica Reiner is the owner / principal designer of Eco Method Interiors, where her company helps people transform their space, health, and the planet. As an inspired interior designer specializing in cleaner and greener spaces, Erica truly can’t decide if she likes working best in residential, commercial or short-term rental sectors with all the fun that comes with each. Erica and her team are hired by clients for full service interior design, online E-design, and event styling. Since 2015, Erica has helped clients create more joy, expression, health and wellbeing through transformational design that goes deeper than aesthetics using the “Eco Method” way. Erica loves sharing her knowledge and has been featured in Better homes and Gardens, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's digest and more. Looking forward, Erica is working towards leading the home decor and design industry into a greener, cleaner place. In her spare time, she's hanging with her husband Reed and rescue mutt, Hank. Connect with Erica Reiner: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: I’ve been doing business with Kravet through Window Works for decades so I wanted to share their statement on their furniture sustainability: At Kravet Inc. we are committed to providing quality product with limited environmental impact, pairing beauty and heirloom quality materials with sustainability to support both the planet and our future generations. The Kravet Inc. legacy is impenetrably bound to environmental awareness.    On their website, at kravet.com/furniture-sustainability, they list all their sustainability efforts. Here’s a quick sampling:    Nearly all waste products are sustainably recycled at Kravet Furniture factories. Greater than 80% of the metal upholstery springs in Kravet Furniture come from recycled metal products. The foam padding in Kravet Furniture contains the highest possible content of soy in an effort to reduce petroleum-based substances.    Other Shows Mentioned: Susan Inglis: episode 670 Mike Peterson: episode 569 Deborah Rosenberg, Dimare Design: episodes 82, 117, 212, 218 Lane McNab: episodes 205, 699 Asha Jaipur Living: episode 526 Today with Erica Reiner

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Erica Reiner of Eco Method Interiors niched down and rebranded after a few years in business. Learn what prompted her big change, what she does when the scarcity mindset strikes, and how her business has changed since she stopped trying to be everything to everyone.

Pick it apart:

[4:04] Erica shares what prompted her rebrand

[10:15] Erica shares her struggle with her scarcity mindset

[24:50] Erica advises about sourcing green products

[34:28] Erica tells about variable standards for green products

[42:50] Erica shares her thoughts about the link between environmental and social justice

[49:42] Erica and LuAnn speak about niching and overcoming the scarcity mindset

LuAnn and Erica Reiner’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Set up expectations early and often.” - Erica Reiner

“You have to figure out what is important to you and what is going to motivate you when it gets tricky and tough”. - Erica Reiner

“If you do something from your heart and explain your reasons why, no one can compete with that.”  - LuAnn Nigara

More about Erica Reiner:

Erica Reiner is the owner / principal designer of Eco Method Interiors, where her company helps people transform their space, health, and the planet. As an inspired interior designer specializing in cleaner and greener spaces, Erica truly can’t decide if she likes working best in residential, commercial or short-term rental sectors with all the fun that comes with each. Erica and her team are hired by clients for full service interior design, online E-design, and event styling. Since 2015, Erica has helped clients create more joy, expression, health and wellbeing through transformational design that goes deeper than aesthetics using the “Eco Method” way. Erica loves sharing her knowledge and has been featured in Better homes and Gardens, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's digest and more. Looking forward, Erica is working towards leading the home decor and design industry into a greener, cleaner place. In her spare time, she's hanging with her husband Reed and rescue mutt, Hank.

Connect with Erica Reiner:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

I’ve been doing business with Kravet through Window Works for decades so I wanted to share their statement on their furniture sustainability: At Kravet Inc. we are committed to providing quality product with limited environmental impact, pairing beauty and heirloom quality materials with sustainability to support both the planet and our future generations. The Kravet Inc. legacy is impenetrably bound to environmental awareness. 

 

On their website, at kravet.com/furniture-sustainability, they list all their sustainability efforts. Here’s a quick sampling: 

 

  • Nearly all waste products are sustainably recycled at Kravet Furniture factories.
  • Greater than 80% of the metal upholstery springs in Kravet Furniture come from recycled metal products.
  • The foam padding in Kravet Furniture contains the highest possible content of soy in an effort to reduce petroleum-based substances. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Susan Inglis: episode 670

Mike Peterson: episode 569

Deborah Rosenberg, Dimare Design: episodes 82, 117, 212, 218

Lane McNab: episodes 205, 699

Asha Jaipur Living: episode 526

]]> 3971 no 728: Power Talk Friday: Danielle Hayden: Finances, Fears and Normalizing the Expectations http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/728-power-talk-friday-danielle-hayden-finances-fears-and-normalizing-the-expectations Today with Danielle Hayden:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Danielle Hayden of Kickstart Accounting takes us through what she’s learned from years of helping female entrepreneurs understand their money, heal from damaging money mindsets and make smart business decisions. Learn what financial considerations to pay special attention to at each stage of your growing business. Pick it apart: [9:38] Danielle explains her mission of helping business owners understand their numbers [14:31] Danielle shares what CFO tasks are [18:37] Danielle explains how deeply her team understands her clients [23:44] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 100k in revenue [33:11] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 250k in revenue [35:53] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 500k in revenue [39:11] Danielle talks about options for a managing the business while staying close to design [42:15] Danielle talk about planning at the 2 million gross revenue level [45:11] Danielle shares her monthly give back event where individual staff members bring ideas and causes  [48:41] Danielle shares about her system for unbiased/inclusive hiring [56:45] Danielle talks about her Five Day Bootcamp   LuAnn and Danielle Hayden’s Ah-Ha moments: “You cannot get to a million dollars working in your business five days a week.” - Danielle Hayden More About Danielle Hayden: Danielle Hayden is a reformed corporate CFO (chief financial officer) who is on a mission to help rule-breaking female entrepreneurs understand their numbers so they can gain the confidence needed to create sustainable profits. After spending 10+ years in the boardroom as a corporate finance officer, Danielle is now in her sweet spot as the co-owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. where she helps business owners with bookkeeping, financial analysis, and education and as the author of the Profit Planner book series. When Danielle isn’t crunching numbers on her clients’ behalf or crafting the next iteration of the Profit Planner, you can find her hanging with her two kids as she inspires them to lead their fullest lives or doing any, and almost every fitness-related activity ranging from Spartan races to pilates. Connect with Danielle Hayden Website  Instagram  Facebook What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 622     Fri, 10 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Danielle Hayden: Finances, Fears and Normalizing the Expectations full 728 LuAnn Nigara Today with Danielle Hayden:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Danielle Hayden of Kickstart Accounting takes us through what she’s learned from years of helping female entrepreneurs understand their money, heal from... Today with Danielle Hayden:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Danielle Hayden of Kickstart Accounting takes us through what she’s learned from years of helping female entrepreneurs understand their money, heal from damaging money mindsets and make smart business decisions. Learn what financial considerations to pay special attention to at each stage of your growing business. Pick it apart: [9:38] Danielle explains her mission of helping business owners understand their numbers [14:31] Danielle shares what CFO tasks are [18:37] Danielle explains how deeply her team understands her clients [23:44] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 100k in revenue [33:11] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 250k in revenue [35:53] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 500k in revenue [39:11] Danielle talks about options for a managing the business while staying close to design [42:15] Danielle talk about planning at the 2 million gross revenue level [45:11] Danielle shares her monthly give back event where individual staff members bring ideas and causes  [48:41] Danielle shares about her system for unbiased/inclusive hiring [56:45] Danielle talks about her Five Day Bootcamp   LuAnn and Danielle Hayden’s Ah-Ha moments: “You cannot get to a million dollars working in your business five days a week.” - Danielle Hayden More About Danielle Hayden: Danielle Hayden is a reformed corporate CFO (chief financial officer) who is on a mission to help rule-breaking female entrepreneurs understand their numbers so they can gain the confidence needed to create sustainable profits. After spending 10+ years in the boardroom as a corporate finance officer, Danielle is now in her sweet spot as the co-owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. where she helps business owners with bookkeeping, financial analysis, and education and as the author of the Profit Planner book series. When Danielle isn’t crunching numbers on her clients’ behalf or crafting the next iteration of the Profit Planner, you can find her hanging with her two kids as she inspires them to lead their fullest lives or doing any, and almost every fitness-related activity ranging from Spartan races to pilates. Connect with Danielle Hayden Website  Instagram  Facebook What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 622     Today with Danielle Hayden: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Danielle Hayden of Kickstart Accounting takes us through what she’s learned from years of helping female entrepreneurs understand their money, heal from damaging money mindsets and make smart business decisions. Learn what financial considerations to pay special attention to at each stage of your growing business.

Pick it apart:

[9:38] Danielle explains her mission of helping business owners understand their numbers

[14:31] Danielle shares what CFO tasks are

[18:37] Danielle explains how deeply her team understands her clients

[23:44] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 100k in revenue

[33:11] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 250k in revenue

[35:53] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 500k in revenue

[39:11] Danielle talks about options for a managing the business while staying close to design

[42:15] Danielle talk about planning at the 2 million gross revenue level

[45:11] Danielle shares her monthly give back event where individual staff members bring ideas and causes 

[48:41] Danielle shares about her system for unbiased/inclusive hiring

[56:45] Danielle talks about her Five Day Bootcamp

 

LuAnn and Danielle Hayden’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You cannot get to a million dollars working in your business five days a week.” - Danielle Hayden

More About Danielle Hayden:

Danielle Hayden is a reformed corporate CFO (chief financial officer) who is on a mission to help rule-breaking female entrepreneurs understand their numbers so they can gain the confidence needed to create sustainable profits. After spending 10+ years in the boardroom as a corporate finance officer, Danielle is now in her sweet spot as the co-owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. where she helps business owners with bookkeeping, financial analysis, and education and as the author of the Profit Planner book series. When Danielle isn’t crunching numbers on her clients’ behalf or crafting the next iteration of the Profit Planner, you can find her hanging with her two kids as she inspires them to lead their fullest lives or doing any, and almost every fitness-related activity ranging from Spartan races to pilates.

Connect with Danielle Hayden

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 622

 

 

]]> 4583 no 727: What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/727-what-would-lu-do-year-end-review-apps-tech-memberships-and-more Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! During this series, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today I am going to encourage you to review your technology, subscriptions and memberships, and insurances.  You know what the Vin Man says, sometimes it’s not what you make, it’s what you don’t spend. So, let’s see if we can save you from some unnecessary spending in 2022, shall we? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 719 Episode 721 Episode 723 Episode 725 Tue, 07 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Year End Review: Apps, Tech, Memberships and More full 727 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! During this series, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! During this series, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today I am going to encourage you to review your technology, subscriptions and memberships, and insurances.  You know what the Vin Man says, sometimes it’s not what you make, it’s what you don’t spend. So, let’s see if we can save you from some unnecessary spending in 2022, shall we? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 719 Episode 721 Episode 723 Episode 725 Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! During this series, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end.

To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. 

In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today I am going to encourage you to review your technology, subscriptions and memberships, and insurances. 

You know what the Vin Man says, sometimes it’s not what you make, it’s what you don’t spend. So, let’s see if we can save you from some unnecessary spending in 2022, shall we?

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 719

Episode 721

Episode 723

Episode 725

]]> 1539 no 726: Power Talk Friday: Tanya Dalton: Goal Setting with IMPACT! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/726-power-talk-friday-tanya-dalton-goal-setting-with-impact Today with Tanya Dalton:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Tanya Dalton, best-selling author, speaker, productivity expert, and growth strategist for female leaders is here to share a helpful goal framework that leaves space for life’s ups and downs, celebrates progress, and prevents you from getting discouraged and quitting. Pick it apart: [4:16] Tanya shares the mindfulness exercise she uses during her commute [9:27] Tanya summarizes her new book [11:58] Tanya walks through her IMPACT goal framework [25:05] Tanya shares her email-checking system [31:05] Tanya details her customer service system that includes auto-FAQs and using templated responses/multiple inboxes [38:30] LuAnn explains Sara Brennan’s calendar hack for new client consultations [43:58] Tanya covers quick tips on implementing habit stacking   LuAnn and Tanya Dalton’ Ah-Ha moments: “It’s a choice to have an extraordinary life.” - Tanya Dalton   “The goal isn’t the goal. Goals are the vehicle to get you the life you want.” - Tanya Dalton   More About Tanya Dalton: Tanya Dalton is a best-selling author, speaker, nationally recognized productivity expert, and serves as a growth strategist for female leaders. In addition to her first book, The Joy of Missing Out, being named one of the Top 10 Business Books of the year by Fortune Magazine, Tanya’s podcast, The Intentional Advantage has received millions of downloads from listeners around the world. She is also a featured expert on several networks including NBC and Fox and is a VIP contributor for Entrepreneur.com. Tanya has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications including Forbes, Inc, Fast Company,and Real Simple. She has been awarded the elite Enterprising Women Award and has been named the Female Entrepreneur to Watch for the state of North Carolina. Tanya is also the founder + CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co. a multi-million dollar company providing tools that work as a catalyst in helping women do less while achieving maximum success. Connect with Tanya Dalton Website  Instagram   Facebook  LinkedIn Twitter Buy Tanya’s Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Fri, 03 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Tanya Dalton: Goal Setting with IMPACT! full 726 LuAnn Nigara Today with Tanya Dalton:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Tanya Dalton, best-selling author, speaker, productivity expert, and growth strategist for female leaders is here to share a helpful goal framework that leaves... Today with Tanya Dalton:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Tanya Dalton, best-selling author, speaker, productivity expert, and growth strategist for female leaders is here to share a helpful goal framework that leaves space for life’s ups and downs, celebrates progress, and prevents you from getting discouraged and quitting. Pick it apart: [4:16] Tanya shares the mindfulness exercise she uses during her commute [9:27] Tanya summarizes her new book [11:58] Tanya walks through her IMPACT goal framework [25:05] Tanya shares her email-checking system [31:05] Tanya details her customer service system that includes auto-FAQs and using templated responses/multiple inboxes [38:30] LuAnn explains Sara Brennan’s calendar hack for new client consultations [43:58] Tanya covers quick tips on implementing habit stacking   LuAnn and Tanya Dalton’ Ah-Ha moments: “It’s a choice to have an extraordinary life.” - Tanya Dalton   “The goal isn’t the goal. Goals are the vehicle to get you the life you want.” - Tanya Dalton   More About Tanya Dalton: Tanya Dalton is a best-selling author, speaker, nationally recognized productivity expert, and serves as a growth strategist for female leaders. In addition to her first book, The Joy of Missing Out, being named one of the Top 10 Business Books of the year by Fortune Magazine, Tanya’s podcast, The Intentional Advantage has received millions of downloads from listeners around the world. She is also a featured expert on several networks including NBC and Fox and is a VIP contributor for Entrepreneur.com. Tanya has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications including Forbes, Inc, Fast Company,and Real Simple. She has been awarded the elite Enterprising Women Award and has been named the Female Entrepreneur to Watch for the state of North Carolina. Tanya is also the founder + CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co. a multi-million dollar company providing tools that work as a catalyst in helping women do less while achieving maximum success. Connect with Tanya Dalton Website  Instagram   Facebook  LinkedIn Twitter Buy Tanya’s Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Today with Tanya Dalton: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Tanya Dalton, best-selling author, speaker, productivity expert, and growth strategist for female leaders is here to share a helpful goal framework that leaves space for life’s ups and downs, celebrates progress, and prevents you from getting discouraged and quitting.

Pick it apart:

[4:16] Tanya shares the mindfulness exercise she uses during her commute

[9:27] Tanya summarizes her new book

[11:58] Tanya walks through her IMPACT goal framework

[25:05] Tanya shares her email-checking system

[31:05] Tanya details her customer service system that includes auto-FAQs and using templated responses/multiple inboxes

[38:30] LuAnn explains Sara Brennan’s calendar hack for new client consultations

[43:58] Tanya covers quick tips on implementing habit stacking

 

LuAnn and Tanya Dalton’ Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s a choice to have an extraordinary life.” - Tanya Dalton

 

“The goal isn’t the goal. Goals are the vehicle to get you the life you want.” - Tanya Dalton

 

More About Tanya Dalton:

Tanya Dalton is a best-selling author, speaker, nationally recognized productivity expert, and serves as a growth strategist for female leaders.

In addition to her first book, The Joy of Missing Out, being named one of the Top 10 Business Books of the year by Fortune Magazine, Tanya’s podcast, The Intentional Advantage has received millions of downloads from listeners around the world.

She is also a featured expert on several networks including NBC and Fox and is a VIP contributor for Entrepreneur.com. Tanya has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications including Forbes, Inc, Fast Company,and Real Simple. She has been awarded the elite Enterprising Women Award and has been named the Female Entrepreneur to Watch for the state of North Carolina.

Tanya is also the founder + CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co. a multi-million dollar company providing tools that work as a catalyst in helping women do less while achieving maximum success.

Connect with Tanya Dalton

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Twitter

Buy Tanya’s Book

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

]]> 3776 no 725: What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/725-what-would-lu-do-year-end-how-to-plan-your-marketing Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! Over the next few weeks, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are talking about our marketing plan for 2022. I am going to kick this off with a line from one of my partners at Exciting Windows!, Steve Wishnow. "Always be marketing." No matter what kind of firm you have, no matter how large or how small or how busy or slow you are—always be marketing. Let's get to it! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 30 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Year End: How to Plan Your Marketing full 725 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! Over the next few weeks, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! Over the next few weeks, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are talking about our marketing plan for 2022. I am going to kick this off with a line from one of my partners at Exciting Windows!, Steve Wishnow. "Always be marketing." No matter what kind of firm you have, no matter how large or how small or how busy or slow you are—always be marketing. Let's get to it! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! Over the next few weeks, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end.

To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. 

In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are talking about our marketing plan for 2022. I am going to kick this off with a line from one of my partners at Exciting Windows!, Steve Wishnow. "Always be marketing." No matter what kind of firm you have, no matter how large or how small or how busy or slow you are—always be marketing. Let's get to it!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 1375 no 724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/724-power-talk-friday-jude-charles-using-video-to-close-more-interior-design-deals Today with Jude Charles:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday and Jude Charles is back on the show! Today, Jude shares the final part of his video storytelling framework - Dramatic Leverage. Jude shares some of his 70 ideas for distributing your brand videos so you can help people understand who you are, how you can help them, and why they want to choose you for their next project. Pick it apart: [5:36] Jude shares the story of lipstick brand found Keyshia Ka’oir   [14:15] Jude recaps why story is so important to building your brand   [26:40] Jude share the re-engagement tactic he uses to get more projects   [29:52] Jude relays the story of a business coach he worked with on her testimonials   [33:18] Jude offers his advice for interior designers who want to create videos  LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “What you want more than anything is to resonate with your audience.” - Jude Charles   “We have gold in our hands but we’re searching for silver.” - Jude Charles   “Think bigger and go deeper”. - Jude Charles   “It is not optional to be in business and not tell your story.” - Jude Charles   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn Jude's Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 #626 #718 Fri, 26 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals full 724 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jude Charles:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday and Jude Charles is back on the show! Today, Jude shares the final part of his video storytelling framework - Dramatic Leverage. Jude shares some of his 70... Today with Jude Charles:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday and Jude Charles is back on the show! Today, Jude shares the final part of his video storytelling framework - Dramatic Leverage. Jude shares some of his 70 ideas for distributing your brand videos so you can help people understand who you are, how you can help them, and why they want to choose you for their next project. Pick it apart: [5:36] Jude shares the story of lipstick brand found Keyshia Ka’oir   [14:15] Jude recaps why story is so important to building your brand   [26:40] Jude share the re-engagement tactic he uses to get more projects   [29:52] Jude relays the story of a business coach he worked with on her testimonials   [33:18] Jude offers his advice for interior designers who want to create videos  LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “What you want more than anything is to resonate with your audience.” - Jude Charles   “We have gold in our hands but we’re searching for silver.” - Jude Charles   “Think bigger and go deeper”. - Jude Charles   “It is not optional to be in business and not tell your story.” - Jude Charles   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn Jude's Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 #626 #718 Today with Jude Charles: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday and Jude Charles is back on the show! Today, Jude shares the final part of his video storytelling framework - Dramatic Leverage. Jude shares some of his 70 ideas for distributing your brand videos so you can help people understand who you are, how you can help them, and why they want to choose you for their next project.

Pick it apart:

[5:36] Jude shares the story of lipstick brand found Keyshia Ka’oir

 

[14:15] Jude recaps why story is so important to building your brand

 

[26:40] Jude share the re-engagement tactic he uses to get more projects

 

[29:52] Jude relays the story of a business coach he worked with on her testimonials

 

[33:18] Jude offers his advice for interior designers who want to create videos 

LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments:

“What you want more than anything is to resonate with your audience.” - Jude Charles

 

“We have gold in our hands but we’re searching for silver.” - Jude Charles

 

“Think bigger and go deeper”. - Jude Charles

 

“It is not optional to be in business and not tell your story.” - Jude Charles

 

More About Jude Charles:

Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.

 

Connect with Jude Charles

Website 

LinkedIn

Jude's Book

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#516

#626

#718

]]> 3920 no 723: What Would Lu Do?: Let's Do a Revenue Generator Review http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-723 Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini series! Over the next few weeks I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to do a revenue generator review.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 23 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Let's Do a Revenue Generator Review full 723 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini series! Over the next few weeks I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini series! Over the next few weeks I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to do a revenue generator review.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini series! Over the next few weeks I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end.

To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. 

In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to do a revenue generator review. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 1506 no 722: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/720-power-talk-friday-duke-renders-how-to-incorporate-3d-renderings-into-your-interior-design-business Today with Duke Renders:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today’s sponsored show with Fernando Duque of Duke Renders is valuable on multiple levels.  Not only will you get a unique insight into what the world of high-quality 3D rendering offers you and how Duke Renders can help you take advantage of it, but you’ll also hear from an expert business owner who knows what it takes to grow a business to full fruition within just a year. Pick it apart: [8:12] Fernando shares the story of how helping his wife led to the creation of Duke Renders.  [13:45] LuAnn and Fernando discuss the importance of core values and how sticking to them makes business decisions easier.  [31:39] Fernando highlights the process of designers working with Duke Renders, from start to finish.  [48:27] Fernando points out what makes Duke Renders different and why you should work with them.  [51:48] Fernando shares the company’s referral system and previews the Black Friday offer you need to take advantage of. LuAnn and Fernando Duque’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s all about core values and how to build a company from the very beginning with a nice set of rules that you live by. For us, it’s very simple. Some of our core values are that we are a client-centric company and we have to pay attention to detail because we’re serving such a specific industry. We like to have our fair share of fun too. Being a client-centric company means that we put the client first in everything that we do. I know it sounds like everyone does that focusing on creating the best experience for our clients is what we focus on. That comes with brand loyalty, and that’s why our clients keep coming back.” -Fernando Duque   “I love what you said—if you’re going to do something through the filter of your values, it saves you so much time. That’s something I say over and over and over again. It’s why a designer has to set their mission, their vision, and their core values.” -LuAnn Nigara   “That line, ‘We didn’t know much about rendering but we knew how to build a business’ is the premise of the podcast...It’s like we say all the time—you don’t need to hire someone with a skillset; you need to hire someone with ethics, who shares your core values...You’re going to teach them the rest, but you can’t teach them character. This is the same thing to me with the business. You didn’t need to know about rendering. You needed to know about business.” -LuAnn  Nigara   “The trick to building a healthy company is that the minute you find out there’s someone better than you, hire them and spread the culture of your company. For us, we started hiring better 3D artists from very early on. That’s why we have grown so fast and been able to serve more people.” -Fernando Duque Connect with Duke Renders Website Referral Program Quote Your Project Email: info@dukerenders.com Instagram Facebook More About Duke Renders: Fernando is a serial entrepreneur, born in Venezuela, with a bachelor in Economics and an MBA from Babson College. He has a passion for starting companies and making them grow, Duke Renders being the 5th in his career. He lives in Tulum, Mexico with his beautiful wife Mina (who you can listen to in episode 639) and their new baby Company B Penelope. io Duke Renders is a 3D Rendering Studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. They serve busy interior designers with 100% accurate photo-realistic 3D renderings. Their goal is to make you and your clients feel proud, confident and empowered at every step of the design process. They have clients such as Intercontinental Hotel Group, Kate Rumson, Eneia White, Mikel Welch, Lindsey Brooke and over 300+ more. They created the renderings for the Obsidian Experience by BADG (Black Artist Designers Guild) and their work has been featured in Forbes, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful and now the Luann Nigara's Podcast. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show! Other Shows Mentioned:  #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count #639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot   #297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man   #703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity Fri, 19 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business full 722 LuAnn Nigara Today with Duke Renders:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today’s sponsored show with Fernando Duque of Duke Renders is valuable on multiple levels.  Not only will you get a unique insight into what the world of high-quality 3D... Today with Duke Renders:  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today’s sponsored show with Fernando Duque of Duke Renders is valuable on multiple levels.  Not only will you get a unique insight into what the world of high-quality 3D rendering offers you and how Duke Renders can help you take advantage of it, but you’ll also hear from an expert business owner who knows what it takes to grow a business to full fruition within just a year. Pick it apart: [8:12] Fernando shares the story of how helping his wife led to the creation of Duke Renders.  [13:45] LuAnn and Fernando discuss the importance of core values and how sticking to them makes business decisions easier.  [31:39] Fernando highlights the process of designers working with Duke Renders, from start to finish.  [48:27] Fernando points out what makes Duke Renders different and why you should work with them.  [51:48] Fernando shares the company’s referral system and previews the Black Friday offer you need to take advantage of. LuAnn and Fernando Duque’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s all about core values and how to build a company from the very beginning with a nice set of rules that you live by. For us, it’s very simple. Some of our core values are that we are a client-centric company and we have to pay attention to detail because we’re serving such a specific industry. We like to have our fair share of fun too. Being a client-centric company means that we put the client first in everything that we do. I know it sounds like everyone does that focusing on creating the best experience for our clients is what we focus on. That comes with brand loyalty, and that’s why our clients keep coming back.” -Fernando Duque   “I love what you said—if you’re going to do something through the filter of your values, it saves you so much time. That’s something I say over and over and over again. It’s why a designer has to set their mission, their vision, and their core values.” -LuAnn Nigara   “That line, ‘We didn’t know much about rendering but we knew how to build a business’ is the premise of the podcast...It’s like we say all the time—you don’t need to hire someone with a skillset; you need to hire someone with ethics, who shares your core values...You’re going to teach them the rest, but you can’t teach them character. This is the same thing to me with the business. You didn’t need to know about rendering. You needed to know about business.” -LuAnn  Nigara   “The trick to building a healthy company is that the minute you find out there’s someone better than you, hire them and spread the culture of your company. For us, we started hiring better 3D artists from very early on. That’s why we have grown so fast and been able to serve more people.” -Fernando Duque Connect with Duke Renders Website Referral Program Quote Your Project Email: info@dukerenders.com Instagram Facebook More About Duke Renders: Fernando is a serial entrepreneur, born in Venezuela, with a bachelor in Economics and an MBA from Babson College. He has a passion for starting companies and making them grow, Duke Renders being the 5th in his career. He lives in Tulum, Mexico with his beautiful wife Mina (who you can listen to in episode 639) and their new baby Company B Penelope. io Duke Renders is a 3D Rendering Studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. They serve busy interior designers with 100% accurate photo-realistic 3D renderings. Their goal is to make you and your clients feel proud, confident and empowered at every step of the design process. They have clients such as Intercontinental Hotel Group, Kate Rumson, Eneia White, Mikel Welch, Lindsey Brooke and over 300+ more. They created the renderings for the Obsidian Experience by BADG (Black Artist Designers Guild) and their work has been featured in Forbes, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful and now the Luann Nigara's Podcast. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show! Other Shows Mentioned:  #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count #639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot   #297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man   #703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity Today with Duke Renders: 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today’s sponsored show with Fernando Duque of Duke Renders is valuable on multiple levels.  Not only will you get a unique insight into what the world of high-quality 3D rendering offers you and how Duke Renders can help you take advantage of it, but you’ll also hear from an expert business owner who knows what it takes to grow a business to full fruition within just a year.

Pick it apart:

  • [8:12] Fernando shares the story of how helping his wife led to the creation of Duke Renders. 
  • [13:45] LuAnn and Fernando discuss the importance of core values and how sticking to them makes business decisions easier. 
  • [31:39] Fernando highlights the process of designers working with Duke Renders, from start to finish. 
  • [48:27] Fernando points out what makes Duke Renders different and why you should work with them. 
  • [51:48] Fernando shares the company’s referral system and previews the Black Friday offer you need to take advantage of.

LuAnn and Fernando Duque’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s all about core values and how to build a company from the very beginning with a nice set of rules that you live by. For us, it’s very simple. Some of our core values are that we are a client-centric company and we have to pay attention to detail because we’re serving such a specific industry. We like to have our fair share of fun too. Being a client-centric company means that we put the client first in everything that we do. I know it sounds like everyone does that focusing on creating the best experience for our clients is what we focus on. That comes with brand loyalty, and that’s why our clients keep coming back.” -Fernando Duque

 

“I love what you said—if you’re going to do something through the filter of your values, it saves you so much time. That’s something I say over and over and over again. It’s why a designer has to set their mission, their vision, and their core values.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“That line, ‘We didn’t know much about rendering but we knew how to build a business’ is the premise of the podcast...It’s like we say all the time—you don’t need to hire someone with a skillset; you need to hire someone with ethics, who shares your core values...You’re going to teach them the rest, but you can’t teach them character. This is the same thing to me with the business. You didn’t need to know about rendering. You needed to know about business.” -LuAnn  Nigara

 

“The trick to building a healthy company is that the minute you find out there’s someone better than you, hire them and spread the culture of your company. For us, we started hiring better 3D artists from very early on. That’s why we have grown so fast and been able to serve more people.” -Fernando Duque

Connect with Duke Renders

Website

Referral Program

Quote Your Project

Email: info@dukerenders.com

Instagram

Facebook

More About Duke Renders:

Fernando is a serial entrepreneur, born in Venezuela, with a bachelor in Economics and an MBA from Babson College. He has a passion for starting companies and making them grow, Duke Renders being the 5th in his career. He lives in Tulum, Mexico with his beautiful wife Mina (who you can listen to in episode 639) and their new baby Company B Penelope. io Duke Renders is a 3D Rendering Studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. They serve busy interior designers with 100% accurate photo-realistic 3D renderings. Their goal is to make you and your clients feel proud, confident and empowered at every step of the design process. They have clients such as Intercontinental Hotel Group, Kate Rumson, Eneia White, Mikel Welch, Lindsey Brooke and over 300+ more. They created the renderings for the Obsidian Experience by BADG (Black Artist Designers Guild) and their work has been featured in Forbes, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful and now the Luann Nigara's Podcast.

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show!

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count

#639 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot

 

#297 Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man

 

#703 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

]]> 3865 no 721: What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021- Questions to Ask http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/721-what-would-lu-do Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today starts a series that over the next few weeks will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to start with a session on the questions you need to ask yourself and your team when starting the autopsy process. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 16 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Year End 2021- Questions to Ask full 721 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today starts a series that over the next few weeks will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year end. To run a profitable... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today starts a series that over the next few weeks will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on.  In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to start with a session on the questions you need to ask yourself and your team when starting the autopsy process. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today starts a series that over the next few weeks will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year end.

To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. 

In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are going to start with a session on the questions you need to ask yourself and your team when starting the autopsy process.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 886 no 720: Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/720-flash-back-friday-cheryl-janis-defining-and-owning-your-niche On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we revisit episode 41 with Cheryl Janis. After an accident left her searching for help in the world of natural medicine, Cheryl realized that there was a powerful niche waiting for her—designing for boutique visionaries in the holistic health world. Niching opened up a world of possibility for her, and brought more joy to her business than she had experienced in her 19 years of design.  Pick it apart: [5:45] Cheryl shares her story of how a frightening accident and a difficult recovery led to her niche. [13:08] Cheryl highlights the positives her niche brought to her business.  [20:20] LuAnn and Cheryl pick apart the scary parts of niching and how Cheryl overcame them.  [27:23] Cheryl explains evidence-based design and how it helped her improve as a designer.  [56:08] Cheryl shares how “snail mail” gives her a unique opportunity to connect with clients. LuAnn and Cheryl's Ah-Ha moments: “All this creativity that felt bottled up when I was a generalist suddenly started to explode, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with that.” -Cheryl Janis “When something is gnawing at you, and you’re not happy in what you do, you want to find that thing that does make you happy. Sometimes that’s difficult. Sometimes it takes years to do.” -Cheryl Janis “I think it’s terrific, and it could be executed by anyone to any niche. It could be bathrooms, kitchens, nursery, commercial, lawyers offices. The point is, find the thing that when you’re doing and creating that space, you’re not looking at the clock. It’s what projects you are drawn to.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Cheryl Janis Website Instagram   LinkedIn Pinterest Cheryl's Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revelwoods is a family run business, led by John Dupra. They are a hyper-personalized concierge service providing wood flooring at wholesale prices to you, the interior designer. Go to revelwoods.com to find out how you can add profit to your projects by making the wood floor purchase part of your proposal. Revelwoods wants to help you be the wood flooring expert. Their design trade program is designed to help you succeed, to help you be the best resource for your client as well as helping you navigate this territory with your contractor. They know the business, the typical distribution channel and they know how you can make more money and be the expert in the room. Go to revelwoods.com and see how it works.   Other Shows Mentioned: #41 Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow   #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Sat, 13 Nov 2021 16:20:43 -0000 Flash Back Friday: Cheryl Janis : Defining and Owning Your Niche full 720 LuAnn Nigara On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we revisit episode 41 with Cheryl Janis. After an accident left her searching for help in the world of natural medicine, Cheryl realized that there was... On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we revisit episode 41 with Cheryl Janis. After an accident left her searching for help in the world of natural medicine, Cheryl realized that there was a powerful niche waiting for her—designing for boutique visionaries in the holistic health world. Niching opened up a world of possibility for her, and brought more joy to her business than she had experienced in her 19 years of design.  Pick it apart: [5:45] Cheryl shares her story of how a frightening accident and a difficult recovery led to her niche. [13:08] Cheryl highlights the positives her niche brought to her business.  [20:20] LuAnn and Cheryl pick apart the scary parts of niching and how Cheryl overcame them.  [27:23] Cheryl explains evidence-based design and how it helped her improve as a designer.  [56:08] Cheryl shares how “snail mail” gives her a unique opportunity to connect with clients. LuAnn and Cheryl's Ah-Ha moments: “All this creativity that felt bottled up when I was a generalist suddenly started to explode, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with that.” -Cheryl Janis “When something is gnawing at you, and you’re not happy in what you do, you want to find that thing that does make you happy. Sometimes that’s difficult. Sometimes it takes years to do.” -Cheryl Janis “I think it’s terrific, and it could be executed by anyone to any niche. It could be bathrooms, kitchens, nursery, commercial, lawyers offices. The point is, find the thing that when you’re doing and creating that space, you’re not looking at the clock. It’s what projects you are drawn to.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Cheryl Janis Website Instagram   LinkedIn Pinterest Cheryl's Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revelwoods is a family run business, led by John Dupra. They are a hyper-personalized concierge service providing wood flooring at wholesale prices to you, the interior designer. Go to revelwoods.com to find out how you can add profit to your projects by making the wood floor purchase part of your proposal. Revelwoods wants to help you be the wood flooring expert. Their design trade program is designed to help you succeed, to help you be the best resource for your client as well as helping you navigate this territory with your contractor. They know the business, the typical distribution channel and they know how you can make more money and be the expert in the room. Go to revelwoods.com and see how it works.   Other Shows Mentioned: #41 Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow   #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we revisit episode 41 with Cheryl Janis. After an accident left her searching for help in the world of natural medicine, Cheryl realized that there was a powerful niche waiting for her—designing for boutique visionaries in the holistic health world. Niching opened up a world of possibility for her, and brought more joy to her business than she had experienced in her 19 years of design. 

Pick it apart:
    • [5:45] Cheryl shares her story of how a frightening accident and a difficult recovery led to her niche.
    • [13:08] Cheryl highlights the positives her niche brought to her business. 
    • [20:20] LuAnn and Cheryl pick apart the scary parts of niching and how Cheryl overcame them. 
    • [27:23] Cheryl explains evidence-based design and how it helped her improve as a designer. 
    • [56:08] Cheryl shares how “snail mail” gives her a unique opportunity to connect with clients.
LuAnn and Cheryl's Ah-Ha moments:

“All this creativity that felt bottled up when I was a generalist suddenly started to explode, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with that.” -Cheryl Janis

“When something is gnawing at you, and you’re not happy in what you do, you want to find that thing that does make you happy. Sometimes that’s difficult. Sometimes it takes years to do.” -Cheryl Janis

“I think it’s terrific, and it could be executed by anyone to any niche. It could be bathrooms, kitchens, nursery, commercial, lawyers offices. The point is, find the thing that when you’re doing and creating that space, you’re not looking at the clock. It’s what projects you are drawn to.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Cheryl Janis

Website

Instagram  

LinkedIn

Pinterest

Cheryl's Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revelwoods is a family run business, led by John Dupra. They are a hyper-personalized concierge service providing wood flooring at wholesale prices to you, the interior designer. Go to revelwoods.com to find out how you can add profit to your projects by making the wood floor purchase part of your proposal. Revelwoods wants to help you be the wood flooring expert. Their design trade program is designed to help you succeed, to help you be the best resource for your client as well as helping you navigate this territory with your contractor. They know the business, the typical distribution channel and they know how you can make more money and be the expert in the room. Go to revelwoods.com and see how it works.  

Other Shows Mentioned:

#41 Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow

 

#15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

]]> 3289 no 719: Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/peter-kim-and-michele Today with Peter Lang, Kim Merlitti, and Michele Williams Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Our financial Power Talk Friday experts, Michele Williams, Peter Lang, and Kim Merlitti are talking about year-end cleanup and planning for the new year. They cover what your balance sheet should look like, what tax strategies you can consider, what to look for in a financial professional, and why mindset matters. LuAnn, Peter, Kim, and Michele's Ah-Ha moments: “The balance sheet should be a perfect representation of your financial state at that moment.” - Michele Williams “It’s the day-to-day that moves us forward in any plan - it’s not just the big moment. It’s every single day being committed to the goal.” - Michele Williams “When you put it down on paper, it happens.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Peter, Kim, and Michele: Peter Lang Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Kim Merlitti Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. her clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with a main focus on small interior design, construction and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Michele Williams Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America.  Connect with Peter, Kim, and Michelle: Peter Lang Website Instagram Facebook Kim Merlitti Website Instagram Michele Williams Website  Instagram Facebook Podcastd What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #164 #368 #284 Tue, 09 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Peter Lang, Kimberly Merlitti, and Michele Williams: Financial Prep for Year-End- The Must Do’s full 719 LuAnn Nigara Today with Peter Lang, Kim Merlitti, and Michele Williams Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Our financial Power Talk Friday experts, Michele Williams, Peter Lang, and Kim Merlitti are talking about year-end cleanup and planning for the new year.... Today with Peter Lang, Kim Merlitti, and Michele Williams Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Our financial Power Talk Friday experts, Michele Williams, Peter Lang, and Kim Merlitti are talking about year-end cleanup and planning for the new year. They cover what your balance sheet should look like, what tax strategies you can consider, what to look for in a financial professional, and why mindset matters. LuAnn, Peter, Kim, and Michele's Ah-Ha moments: “The balance sheet should be a perfect representation of your financial state at that moment.” - Michele Williams “It’s the day-to-day that moves us forward in any plan - it’s not just the big moment. It’s every single day being committed to the goal.” - Michele Williams “When you put it down on paper, it happens.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Peter, Kim, and Michele: Peter Lang Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Kim Merlitti Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. her clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with a main focus on small interior design, construction and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Michele Williams Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America.  Connect with Peter, Kim, and Michelle: Peter Lang Website Instagram Facebook Kim Merlitti Website Instagram Michele Williams Website  Instagram Facebook Podcastd What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #164 #368 #284 Today with Peter Lang, Kim Merlitti, and Michele Williams

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Our financial Power Talk Friday experts, Michele Williams, Peter Lang, and Kim Merlitti are talking about year-end cleanup and planning for the new year. They cover what your balance sheet should look like, what tax strategies you can consider, what to look for in a financial professional, and why mindset matters.

LuAnn, Peter, Kim, and Michele's Ah-Ha moments:

“The balance sheet should be a perfect representation of your financial state at that moment.” - Michele Williams

“It’s the day-to-day that moves us forward in any plan - it’s not just the big moment. It’s every single day being committed to the goal.” - Michele Williams

“When you put it down on paper, it happens.” - LuAnn Nigara

More about Peter, Kim, and Michele:

Peter Lang

Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.  

Kim Merlitti

Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. her clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with a main focus on small interior design, construction and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management.

Michele Williams

Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. 

Connect with Peter, Kim, and Michelle:

Peter Lang

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Kim Merlitti

Website

Instagram

Michele Williams

Website 

Instagram

Facebook

Podcastd

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#164

#368

#284

]]> 4811 no 718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/718-power-talk-friday-jude-charles-using-video-to-demonstrate-your-brand Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude Charles, the video brand strategist, is back and this time, he’s walking us through how to take that special, differentiating moment and express it through a three-part documentary-style video series he calls “dramatic demonstration”. Pick it apart: [8:09] Jude recaps the why behind his storytelling framework   [14:20] Jude gives an example of how he did a storytelling video for an interior design client   [18:09] Jude reviews the three-part documentary video series for LuAnn’s podcast   [22:10] Jude shares the five demonstrations necessary for a good video documentary series LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “Hearing something said 1000x is not as powerful as seeing it once.” - Jude Charles   “The whole point is answering the question: why should I do business with you vs. every other option that is available?” - Jude Charles   “You are the sum of everything you’ve done.” - LuAnn Nigara   “It’s not just about creating a cool video. It’s about telling your story and getting people connected to you on a deeper level.” - Jude Charles   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn Jude's Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 #626 Fri, 05 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos full 718 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude Charles, the video brand strategist, is back and this time, he’s walking us through how to take that special, differentiating moment and express it through a... Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude Charles, the video brand strategist, is back and this time, he’s walking us through how to take that special, differentiating moment and express it through a three-part documentary-style video series he calls “dramatic demonstration”. Pick it apart: [8:09] Jude recaps the why behind his storytelling framework   [14:20] Jude gives an example of how he did a storytelling video for an interior design client   [18:09] Jude reviews the three-part documentary video series for LuAnn’s podcast   [22:10] Jude shares the five demonstrations necessary for a good video documentary series LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “Hearing something said 1000x is not as powerful as seeing it once.” - Jude Charles   “The whole point is answering the question: why should I do business with you vs. every other option that is available?” - Jude Charles   “You are the sum of everything you’ve done.” - LuAnn Nigara   “It’s not just about creating a cool video. It’s about telling your story and getting people connected to you on a deeper level.” - Jude Charles   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn Jude's Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 #626 Today with Jude Charles: 

We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude Charles, the video brand strategist, is back and this time, he’s walking us through how to take that special, differentiating moment and express it through a three-part documentary-style video series he calls “dramatic demonstration”.

Pick it apart:

[8:09] Jude recaps the why behind his storytelling framework

 

[14:20] Jude gives an example of how he did a storytelling video for an interior design client

 

[18:09] Jude reviews the three-part documentary video series for LuAnn’s podcast

 

[22:10] Jude shares the five demonstrations necessary for a good video documentary series

LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments:

“Hearing something said 1000x is not as powerful as seeing it once.” - Jude Charles

 

“The whole point is answering the question: why should I do business with you vs. every other option that is available?” - Jude Charles

 

“You are the sum of everything you’ve done.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“It’s not just about creating a cool video. It’s about telling your story and getting people connected to you on a deeper level.” - Jude Charles

 

More About Jude Charles:

Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.

 

Connect with Jude Charles

Website 

LinkedIn

Jude's Book

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#516

#626

]]> 3279 no 717: Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/717-susan-wintersteen-interior-design-firm-standards-in-a-nonprofit-passion-project Today with Susan Wintersteen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Susan Wintersteen, one of my first-year podcast guests, is back on A Well-Designed Business, to share tips on business growth and the importance of a mastermind community to get to the next step. As a business owner rock star, Susan has mastered the art of hiring people who create a positive workplace and support the functions of the business as a whole. Listen in to learn how you can use elements of Susan’s hiring processes to level up your own business - using the predictive index, strong interviews, and detailed skill sets to get good, competent people in the right roles. Susan has applied these same hiring standards to her Savvy Giving by Design nonprofit, which is looking to raise $50,000 this year to support room makeovers for children in medical crises. Pick it apart: [8:46] Susan explains how some employees can divert energy from growing the business, and how important it is to find efficient people who are happy to work in that job.    [13:00] Are you hiring exceptional people, or are you settling?   [18:00] Susan shares her tips on how to take suggestions and make your own decisions for how you are going to grow your business. Gather information, weigh the trustfulness of the source, and DO it!   [19:30] Join a Mastermind or get a coach to get insight from people who are succeeding in their industries at the highest level.   [20:40] Savvy Giving, an all volunteer-based foundation, explained.   [23:47] With the goal of getting into as many rooms as possible, Susan set up a “pop up designer program” to get local interior designers to volunteer and aligned with Make A Wish to maximize the outreach effort.   [27:00] Susan explains - What is Savvy Giving by Design?   [35:55] Savvy Giving by Design brings in the light and the joy to families in crisis.    [39:28] The design and function of the space is essential, and we receive support through our “Fund a Need” page to gather inventory for the room.     [43:34] Beyond the aesthetics - what do the children need to heal?   [46:50] LuAnn’s podcast is about making sure interior designers have the skills, the opportunity, to better themselves, to be a better business, and be profitable.   [47:40] Adding a nonprofit “layer” to your business, and partnering with Make A Wish for the greatest impact.   [52:13] A roadmap for success - How Susan trains volunteer interior designers for Savvy Giving wellness design standards, logistics, and processes.   [57:55] Duplicating Savvy Giving at scale.   [58:48] The same hiring principles used to find the right employees apply to running a nonprofit.    [1:00:18] Designers have so much talent to give and can make an impact on a young person.   [1:02:01] Savvy Giving raises the majority of its funds on Giving Tuesday. Looking to raise $50,000 on November 30th this year. LuAnn and Susan Wintersteen’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t come this far to let it slip through my fingers.” - Susan Wintersteen “I don’t need my team to know all the answers, I just need to know that they know where to look for them.” - Susan Wintersteen “Marketing is not your problem. You need to get your team squared away so you can work in harmony.” - LuAnn Nigara “You don’t always have to know the answer, but you have to be willing to go find the answers. And you have to be willing to search for it and ask for it. You have to use your voice and ask for it.” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to be willing to invest in yourself.” - LuAnn Nigara “A well-designed space can contribute to up to 30% of our healing.” - Susan Wintersteen “Make an impact that will make them happy and healthy.” - LuAnn Nigara “Focus on the basic needs first, then put the pretty in.” Susan Wintersteen “When you grow and scale your business, there are going to be pivots, and it’s important to roll with reality.” - LuAnn “Build something beyond you. Something that will have a life of its own and continue to grow and flourish and have longevity.” - Susan Wintersteen “Go big or go home.” - Susan Wintersteen More about Susan Wintersteen: Susan believes in the transformative power of good design, and also, good chocolate—each day her vice is a good piece of Sees. Appreciating these special moments, whether savoring chocolate or spending time near the water with her husband of 30-plus years, her five daughters and dogs (the dogs are male—had to even the score a bit!), makes Susan a more empathic designer who is in tune with the needs of her clients and community.  In all areas of life, Susan likes to have fun and isn’t afraid to push boundaries, and that translates into her exuberant designs. She has carefully curated a team of designers for their expertise and commitment to creativity. Savvy’s work embodies the laid-back California vibe while incorporating unique, personal touches. Susan prides herself on being a straight shooter with a sharp wit, and she is fluent in the language of sarcasm. Her clients know what to expect, as she engages them closely throughout the entire creative and construction process.  about sAVVY  In 2002 Susan founded Savvy Interiors, a full-service interior design firm in San Diego specializing in luxury full service kitchens and baths, where she serves as Principal and CEO. Savvy is the only design firm in North County San Diego that holds a General Contractors license for remodeling, making the entire process a much easier, more seamless experience for her clients. From the spaces where you hide from your kids (bathroom), binge Netflix (living room), or lose your socks (laundry room), Savvy has solutions that improve the look and function of its clients’ homes.    giving back  Not only is Susan in tune with her clients’ needs, but she also uses her expertise to help her community. In 2014, Susan learned about a local teen who had been diagnosed with cancer. Moved by the story, she volunteered to make over the teen’s room into a unique, comfortable space that promotes healing. The joy this transformation brought to the teen moved Susan to found the nonprofit Savvy Giving by Design, which has expanded to a national network of interior designers helping children and their families through a medical crisis by utilizing the power of design and creating rooms to heal. Connect with Susan Wintersteen: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest In honor of children in medical crisis, and as a way to give thanks for our own health, our families, and our successful businesses, please think about contributing to Savvy Giving by Design this Giving Tuesday. If you are listening in real time, that date is Tuesday Nov 30. If you are listening in the future any day can be “giving Tuesday”. If you are moved by Susan and her work, reach out, donate and possibly consider running a pop-up Savvy Giving room for a deserving child in your community.  To fill out an inquiry form go to SavvyGivingbyDesign.org or message Susan Wintersteen on Instagram. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #164 #368 #284 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project full 717 LuAnn Nigara Today with Susan Wintersteen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Susan Wintersteen, one of my first-year podcast guests, is back on A Well-Designed Business, to share tips on business growth and the importance of a mastermind community to get to the... Today with Susan Wintersteen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Susan Wintersteen, one of my first-year podcast guests, is back on A Well-Designed Business, to share tips on business growth and the importance of a mastermind community to get to the next step. As a business owner rock star, Susan has mastered the art of hiring people who create a positive workplace and support the functions of the business as a whole. Listen in to learn how you can use elements of Susan’s hiring processes to level up your own business - using the predictive index, strong interviews, and detailed skill sets to get good, competent people in the right roles. Susan has applied these same hiring standards to her Savvy Giving by Design nonprofit, which is looking to raise $50,000 this year to support room makeovers for children in medical crises. Pick it apart: [8:46] Susan explains how some employees can divert energy from growing the business, and how important it is to find efficient people who are happy to work in that job.    [13:00] Are you hiring exceptional people, or are you settling?   [18:00] Susan shares her tips on how to take suggestions and make your own decisions for how you are going to grow your business. Gather information, weigh the trustfulness of the source, and DO it!   [19:30] Join a Mastermind or get a coach to get insight from people who are succeeding in their industries at the highest level.   [20:40] Savvy Giving, an all volunteer-based foundation, explained.   [23:47] With the goal of getting into as many rooms as possible, Susan set up a “pop up designer program” to get local interior designers to volunteer and aligned with Make A Wish to maximize the outreach effort.   [27:00] Susan explains - What is Savvy Giving by Design?   [35:55] Savvy Giving by Design brings in the light and the joy to families in crisis.    [39:28] The design and function of the space is essential, and we receive support through our “Fund a Need” page to gather inventory for the room.     [43:34] Beyond the aesthetics - what do the children need to heal?   [46:50] LuAnn’s podcast is about making sure interior designers have the skills, the opportunity, to better themselves, to be a better business, and be profitable.   [47:40] Adding a nonprofit “layer” to your business, and partnering with Make A Wish for the greatest impact.   [52:13] A roadmap for success - How Susan trains volunteer interior designers for Savvy Giving wellness design standards, logistics, and processes.   [57:55] Duplicating Savvy Giving at scale.   [58:48] The same hiring principles used to find the right employees apply to running a nonprofit.    [1:00:18] Designers have so much talent to give and can make an impact on a young person.   [1:02:01] Savvy Giving raises the majority of its funds on Giving Tuesday. Looking to raise $50,000 on November 30th this year. LuAnn and Susan Wintersteen’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t come this far to let it slip through my fingers.” - Susan Wintersteen “I don’t need my team to know all the answers, I just need to know that they know where to look for them.” - Susan Wintersteen “Marketing is not your problem. You need to get your team squared away so you can work in harmony.” - LuAnn Nigara “You don’t always have to know the answer, but you have to be willing to go find the answers. And you have to be willing to search for it and ask for it. You have to use your voice and ask for it.” - LuAnn Nigara “You have to be willing to invest in yourself.” - LuAnn Nigara “A well-designed space can contribute to up to 30% of our healing.” - Susan Wintersteen “Make an impact that will make them happy and healthy.” - LuAnn Nigara “Focus on the basic needs first, then put the pretty in.” Susan Wintersteen “When you grow and scale your business, there are going to be pivots, and it’s important to roll with reality.” - LuAnn “Build something beyond you. Something that will have a life of its own and continue to grow and flourish and have longevity.” - Susan Wintersteen “Go big or go home.” - Susan Wintersteen More about Susan Wintersteen: Susan believes in the transformative power of good design, and also, good chocolate—each day her vice is a good piece of Sees. Appreciating these special moments, whether savoring chocolate or spending time near the water with her husband of 30-plus years, her five daughters and dogs (the dogs are male—had to even the score a bit!), makes Susan a more empathic designer who is in tune with the needs of her clients and community.  In all areas of life, Susan likes to have fun and isn’t afraid to push boundaries, and that translates into her exuberant designs. She has carefully curated a team of designers for their expertise and commitment to creativity. Savvy’s work embodies the laid-back California vibe while incorporating unique, personal touches. Susan prides herself on being a straight shooter with a sharp wit, and she is fluent in the language of sarcasm. Her clients know what to expect, as she engages them closely throughout the entire creative and construction process.  about sAVVY  In 2002 Susan founded Savvy Interiors, a full-service interior design firm in San Diego specializing in luxury full service kitchens and baths, where she serves as Principal and CEO. Savvy is the only design firm in North County San Diego that holds a General Contractors license for remodeling, making the entire process a much easier, more seamless experience for her clients. From the spaces where you hide from your kids (bathroom), binge Netflix (living room), or lose your socks (laundry room), Savvy has solutions that improve the look and function of its clients’ homes.    giving back  Not only is Susan in tune with her clients’ needs, but she also uses her expertise to help her community. In 2014, Susan learned about a local teen who had been diagnosed with cancer. Moved by the story, she volunteered to make over the teen’s room into a unique, comfortable space that promotes healing. The joy this transformation brought to the teen moved Susan to found the nonprofit Savvy Giving by Design, which has expanded to a national network of interior designers helping children and their families through a medical crisis by utilizing the power of design and creating rooms to heal. Connect with Susan Wintersteen: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest In honor of children in medical crisis, and as a way to give thanks for our own health, our families, and our successful businesses, please think about contributing to Savvy Giving by Design this Giving Tuesday. If you are listening in real time, that date is Tuesday Nov 30. If you are listening in the future any day can be “giving Tuesday”. If you are moved by Susan and her work, reach out, donate and possibly consider running a pop-up Savvy Giving room for a deserving child in your community.  To fill out an inquiry form go to SavvyGivingbyDesign.org or message Susan Wintersteen on Instagram. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.   Other Shows Mentioned: #164 #368 #284 Today with Susan Wintersteen

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Susan Wintersteen, one of my first-year podcast guests, is back on A Well-Designed Business, to share tips on business growth and the importance of a mastermind community to get to the next step. As a business owner rock star, Susan has mastered the art of hiring people who create a positive workplace and support the functions of the business as a whole.

Listen in to learn how you can use elements of Susan’s hiring processes to level up your own business - using the predictive index, strong interviews, and detailed skill sets to get good, competent people in the right roles. Susan has applied these same hiring standards to her Savvy Giving by Design nonprofit, which is looking to raise $50,000 this year to support room makeovers for children in medical crises.

Pick it apart:

[8:46] Susan explains how some employees can divert energy from growing the business, and how important it is to find efficient people who are happy to work in that job. 

 

[13:00] Are you hiring exceptional people, or are you settling?

 

[18:00] Susan shares her tips on how to take suggestions and make your own decisions for how you are going to grow your business. Gather information, weigh the trustfulness of the source, and DO it!

 

[19:30] Join a Mastermind or get a coach to get insight from people who are succeeding in their industries at the highest level.

 

[20:40] Savvy Giving, an all volunteer-based foundation, explained.

 

[23:47] With the goal of getting into as many rooms as possible, Susan set up a “pop up designer program” to get local interior designers to volunteer and aligned with Make A Wish to maximize the outreach effort.

 

[27:00] Susan explains - What is Savvy Giving by Design?

 

[35:55] Savvy Giving by Design brings in the light and the joy to families in crisis. 

 

[39:28] The design and function of the space is essential, and we receive support through our “Fund a Need” page to gather inventory for the room.  

 

[43:34] Beyond the aesthetics - what do the children need to heal?

 

[46:50] LuAnn’s podcast is about making sure interior designers have the skills, the opportunity, to better themselves, to be a better business, and be profitable.

 

[47:40] Adding a nonprofit “layer” to your business, and partnering with Make A Wish for the greatest impact.

 

[52:13] A roadmap for success - How Susan trains volunteer interior designers for Savvy Giving wellness design standards, logistics, and processes.

 

[57:55] Duplicating Savvy Giving at scale.

 

[58:48] The same hiring principles used to find the right employees apply to running a nonprofit. 

 

[1:00:18] Designers have so much talent to give and can make an impact on a young person.

 

[1:02:01] Savvy Giving raises the majority of its funds on Giving Tuesday. Looking to raise $50,000 on November 30th this year.

LuAnn and Susan Wintersteen’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I didn’t come this far to let it slip through my fingers.” - Susan Wintersteen

“I don’t need my team to know all the answers, I just need to know that they know where to look for them.” - Susan Wintersteen

“Marketing is not your problem. You need to get your team squared away so you can work in harmony.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You don’t always have to know the answer, but you have to be willing to go find the answers. And you have to be willing to search for it and ask for it. You have to use your voice and ask for it.” - LuAnn Nigara

“You have to be willing to invest in yourself.” - LuAnn Nigara

“A well-designed space can contribute to up to 30% of our healing.” - Susan Wintersteen

“Make an impact that will make them happy and healthy.” - LuAnn Nigara

“Focus on the basic needs first, then put the pretty in.” Susan Wintersteen

“When you grow and scale your business, there are going to be pivots, and it’s important to roll with reality.” - LuAnn

“Build something beyond you. Something that will have a life of its own and continue to grow and flourish and have longevity.” - Susan Wintersteen

“Go big or go home.” - Susan Wintersteen

More about Susan Wintersteen:

Susan believes in the transformative power of good design, and also, good chocolate—each day her vice is a good piece of Sees. Appreciating these special moments, whether savoring chocolate or spending time near the water with her husband of 30-plus years, her five daughters and dogs (the dogs are male—had to even the score a bit!), makes Susan a more empathic designer who is in tune with the needs of her clients and community. 

In all areas of life, Susan likes to have fun and isn’t afraid to push boundaries, and that translates into her exuberant designs. She has carefully curated a team of designers for their expertise and commitment to creativity. Savvy’s work embodies the laid-back California vibe while incorporating unique, personal touches. Susan prides herself on being a straight shooter with a sharp wit, and she is fluent in the language of sarcasm. Her clients know what to expect, as she engages them closely throughout the entire creative and construction process. 

about sAVVY 

In 2002 Susan founded Savvy Interiors, a full-service interior design firm in San Diego specializing in luxury full service kitchens and baths, where she serves as Principal and CEO. Savvy is the only design firm in North County San Diego that holds a General Contractors license for remodeling, making the entire process a much easier, more seamless experience for her clients. From the spaces where you hide from your kids (bathroom), binge Netflix (living room), or lose your socks (laundry room), Savvy has solutions that improve the look and function of its clients’ homes. 

 

giving back 

Not only is Susan in tune with her clients’ needs, but she also uses her expertise to help her community. In 2014, Susan learned about a local teen who had been diagnosed with cancer. Moved by the story, she volunteered to make over the teen’s room into a unique, comfortable space that promotes healing. The joy this transformation brought to the teen moved Susan to found the nonprofit Savvy Giving by Design, which has expanded to a national network of interior designers helping children and their families through a medical crisis by utilizing the power of design and creating rooms to heal.

Connect with Susan Wintersteen:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

In honor of children in medical crisis, and as a way to give thanks for our own health, our families, and our successful businesses, please think about contributing to Savvy Giving by Design this Giving Tuesday. If you are listening in real time, that date is Tuesday Nov 30. If you are listening in the future any day can be “giving Tuesday”. If you are moved by Susan and her work, reach out, donate and possibly consider running a pop-up Savvy Giving room for a deserving child in your community.  To fill out an inquiry form go to SavvyGivingbyDesign.org or message Susan Wintersteen on Instagram.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#164

#368

#284

]]> 4580 no 716: Power Talk Friday: Fay + Belle: A Luxury Rug Line, Born and Battle-Tested by Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/716-power-talk-friday-fay-belle-a-luxury-rug-line-born-and-battle-tested-by-interior-designers Today with Fay + Belle: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s show is sponsored by Fay + Belle, a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada.  The company was founded by sister-in-law duo, Kate O’Hara and Kaley O’Hara. Kate is the principal of Martha O’Hara Interiors, and has appeared on the show before. But when she noticed that acquiring custom rugs was a difficult process, she decided to find a way to streamline it for herself. Today, Kate and Kaley share their story and explain how Fay + Belle can help you. Pick it apart: [4:00] Kate and Kaley share the background on how Fay + Belle came to be.  [11:00] Kate and Kaley discuss what sets Fay + Belle apart and what makes them compelling.  [12:30] LuAnn asks about the pain points designers face when ordering custom or vintage rugs. [27:11] Kaley discusses her sales background and how that plays into the success of the brand.  [31:20] Kate and Kaley share the details on the ordering process and how it is streamlined to help you. LuAnn and Fay + Belle’s Ah-Ha moments: “You hear people say ‘by designers, for designers,’ which I love. But Fay + Belle is by designers and battle-tested by them. It served us for many years before we opened it up to other designers. It wasn’t serving a problem we saw that we thought theoretically might help designers. We built this selfishly for ourselves and then thought, ‘it works, let’s open this up to other designers.’”   “I hate the word trend, but it seems on-trend with sustainability and being ecologically forward. You’re repurposing things and get it back into the marketplace so it’s not sitting in a landfill.” -LuAnn   “You have the advantage of doing so many projects and overseeing a company that puts out so much production in a year. So what you experience in a quarter, a smaller firm might experience in a year. The volume that you do puts you in a place to understand and see what’s happening in the trends and rugs.” -LuAnn More About Fay + Belle: Fay + Belle is a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada. Run by sister-in-law duo Kate + Kaley O’Hara, the company has found success in the industry since its founding in 2016. Kate, Co-Founder + Owner, positioned the rug brand for a luxury market and expanded its products into a successful e-commerce business. Kaley, Head of Sales + Designer Liaison, expanded the company’s interior design influence by growing a successful social media presence and developing meaningful relationships with designers across the US.   Today, Fay + Belle works with some of the most well-known interior designers in the country and has been featured in publications such as Austin Monthly and MidWest Homes. Connect with Fay + Belle: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: If you have found yourself hung up with stock and delivery, having to waste hours searching through various platforms for antique and vintage rugs, or a clunky ordering process that tanks your productivity, then Fay + Belle is your answer.  So go to their website, fayandbellerugs.com, and set up your trade account. And remember, if you use the code welldesigned10, you’ll get an extra 10% off.  Thanks again to Kate and Kaley for sponsoring this episode and sharing their story and insights with us.  Fri, 29 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Fay + Belle: A Luxury Rug Line, Born and Battle-Tested by Interior Designers full 716 LuAnn Nigara Today with Fay + Belle: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s show is sponsored by Fay + Belle, a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and... Today with Fay + Belle: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s show is sponsored by Fay + Belle, a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada.  The company was founded by sister-in-law duo, Kate O’Hara and Kaley O’Hara. Kate is the principal of Martha O’Hara Interiors, and has appeared on the show before. But when she noticed that acquiring custom rugs was a difficult process, she decided to find a way to streamline it for herself. Today, Kate and Kaley share their story and explain how Fay + Belle can help you. Pick it apart: [4:00] Kate and Kaley share the background on how Fay + Belle came to be.  [11:00] Kate and Kaley discuss what sets Fay + Belle apart and what makes them compelling.  [12:30] LuAnn asks about the pain points designers face when ordering custom or vintage rugs. [27:11] Kaley discusses her sales background and how that plays into the success of the brand.  [31:20] Kate and Kaley share the details on the ordering process and how it is streamlined to help you. LuAnn and Fay + Belle’s Ah-Ha moments: “You hear people say ‘by designers, for designers,’ which I love. But Fay + Belle is by designers and battle-tested by them. It served us for many years before we opened it up to other designers. It wasn’t serving a problem we saw that we thought theoretically might help designers. We built this selfishly for ourselves and then thought, ‘it works, let’s open this up to other designers.’”   “I hate the word trend, but it seems on-trend with sustainability and being ecologically forward. You’re repurposing things and get it back into the marketplace so it’s not sitting in a landfill.” -LuAnn   “You have the advantage of doing so many projects and overseeing a company that puts out so much production in a year. So what you experience in a quarter, a smaller firm might experience in a year. The volume that you do puts you in a place to understand and see what’s happening in the trends and rugs.” -LuAnn More About Fay + Belle: Fay + Belle is a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada. Run by sister-in-law duo Kate + Kaley O’Hara, the company has found success in the industry since its founding in 2016. Kate, Co-Founder + Owner, positioned the rug brand for a luxury market and expanded its products into a successful e-commerce business. Kaley, Head of Sales + Designer Liaison, expanded the company’s interior design influence by growing a successful social media presence and developing meaningful relationships with designers across the US.   Today, Fay + Belle works with some of the most well-known interior designers in the country and has been featured in publications such as Austin Monthly and MidWest Homes. Connect with Fay + Belle: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: If you have found yourself hung up with stock and delivery, having to waste hours searching through various platforms for antique and vintage rugs, or a clunky ordering process that tanks your productivity, then Fay + Belle is your answer.  So go to their website, fayandbellerugs.com, and set up your trade account. And remember, if you use the code welldesigned10, you’ll get an extra 10% off.  Thanks again to Kate and Kaley for sponsoring this episode and sharing their story and insights with us.  Today with Fay + Belle:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today’s show is sponsored by Fay + Belle, a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada. 

The company was founded by sister-in-law duo, Kate O’Hara and Kaley O’Hara. Kate is the principal of Martha O’Hara Interiors, and has appeared on the show before. But when she noticed that acquiring custom rugs was a difficult process, she decided to find a way to streamline it for herself. Today, Kate and Kaley share their story and explain how Fay + Belle can help you.

Pick it apart:

    • [4:00] Kate and Kaley share the background on how Fay + Belle came to be. 
    • [11:00] Kate and Kaley discuss what sets Fay + Belle apart and what makes them compelling. 
    • [12:30] LuAnn asks about the pain points designers face when ordering custom or vintage rugs.
    • [27:11] Kaley discusses her sales background and how that plays into the success of the brand. 
    • [31:20] Kate and Kaley share the details on the ordering process and how it is streamlined to help you.

LuAnn and Fay + Belle’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You hear people say ‘by designers, for designers,’ which I love. But Fay + Belle is by designers and battle-tested by them. It served us for many years before we opened it up to other designers. It wasn’t serving a problem we saw that we thought theoretically might help designers. We built this selfishly for ourselves and then thought, ‘it works, let’s open this up to other designers.’”

 

“I hate the word trend, but it seems on-trend with sustainability and being ecologically forward. You’re repurposing things and get it back into the marketplace so it’s not sitting in a landfill.” -LuAnn

 

“You have the advantage of doing so many projects and overseeing a company that puts out so much production in a year. So what you experience in a quarter, a smaller firm might experience in a year. The volume that you do puts you in a place to understand and see what’s happening in the trends and rugs.” -LuAnn

More About Fay + Belle:

Fay + Belle is a full-service luxury rug collection that offers authentic vintage and fully customizable rugs for design firms in the United States and Canada.

Run by sister-in-law duo Kate + Kaley O’Hara, the company has found success in the industry since its founding in 2016. Kate, Co-Founder + Owner, positioned the rug brand for a luxury market and expanded its products into a successful e-commerce business. Kaley, Head of Sales + Designer Liaison, expanded the company’s interior design influence by growing a successful social media presence and developing meaningful relationships with designers across the US.

 

Today, Fay + Belle works with some of the most well-known interior designers in the country and has been featured in publications such as Austin Monthly and MidWest Homes.

Connect with Fay + Belle:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

If you have found yourself hung up with stock and delivery, having to waste hours searching through various platforms for antique and vintage rugs, or a clunky ordering process that tanks your productivity, then Fay + Belle is your answer. 

So go to their website, fayandbellerugs.com, and set up your trade account. And remember, if you use the code welldesigned10, you’ll get an extra 10% off. 

Thanks again to Kate and Kaley for sponsoring this episode and sharing their story and insights with us. 

]]> 2991 no 715: Kathleen Jennison: From Trauma to Triumph in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/715-kathleen-jennison-from-trauma-to-triumph-in-interior-design Today with Kathleen Jennison Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Some of us come into this business because we’re naturally-born creatives that never imagined doing anything else. Others spend time in the corporate world but embrace an inner passion. But my guest today is unique—for Kathleen Jennison, a brain injury changed the way her mind functioned and opened the door for a new path as an interior designer. Today, she’s sharing her journey and the lessons she learned along the way.  Pick it apart: [6:34] Kathleen shares her journey through trauma and how she grew her design talents from it.  [15:32] Kathleen discusses her decision to start her own business and how systems and organization helped her.  [22:39] Kathleen describes the way her business grew and the big decisions and leaps of faith she had to take as it did.  [40:38] LuAnn and Kathleen discuss evaluating projects and profitability.  [52:39] Kathleen discusses how marketing is always important, even when your business is thriving. LuAnn and Kathleen Jennison’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to be willing to take a risk. Some people are risk-averse and some people aren’t. There’s nothing wrong with having a home office and working by yourself, because you can still be successful, but it just depends on what you want to do and how you want to feel.” -Kathleen Jennison   “I look at the profitability on the project before I even present it to my client. I do a spreadsheet and see if there are adjustments I need to make ahead of time. Maybe there’s a coffee table we specified that they can find on the internet for cheaper...so let’s pick a different coffee table that is available to the trade only so we can increase our profit on it before we present it to the client.” -Kathleen Jennison   “I love that you brought out the very real point of always be marketing, but as you are building the business and you’re fine-tuning who your ideal client is, you want to always be evaluating that marketing. So we’re not going to start whatever we’re doing, but as your pipeline gets consistently full we can say, ‘Maybe we have 15 active projects in the pipeline but are they all our ideal clients?’ When you do have those projects in your pipeline you can be a little bit riskier in your marketing and start speaking just to the ideal client.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kathleen Jennison: About KTJ Design Co. Kathleen Jennison | Owner & Lead Designer Hello! I’m Kathleen Jennison, and I offer interior design services for forward-thinking homeowners, regardless of whether they know what their style is. I specialize in helping people just like you create an environment with resources and materials appropriate for their needs and budget. As a full service interior designer, I use the Meticulous Method, providing plans with complete interior design specifications for both new and existing properties. My goal is to thrill and delight each client with every project. In addition to my suite of interior design services, I also own a general contracting company. Because of this, I’m happy to provide general contracting services for your project as needed. I also welcome partnerships with any professional who is serving your project, including architects, other general contractors, and landscape designers. This multifaceted approach helps me provide creative and technical solutions while also enhancing the quality of life for my clients.   Before becoming an interior designer, I enjoyed a long career as a Certified Public Accountant and was an auditor of many large corporations. This highly analytical and technical career coupled with my (second) Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design ensures that I am well-equipped to handle any challenges that might arise during a project. A traumatic brain injury propelled this talented interior designer to unexpected heights. . . .  When you are introduced to a person’s life story, you often can’t help but believe certain things happen by design. In some instances, this can be applied both literally and figuratively. For me, an unexpected and traumatic circumstance gave me one of two options: live my life by design or live it by default. I chose the former and have never looked back. Up until 15 years agoI used to be a hard-charging, successful CPA. However, my career hit a detour when a car accident in which I was involved in 2006 suddenly changed the trajectory of my ambitions. After experiencing a traumatic brain injury as a result of the accident, my analytical mindset pivoted in a new direction. While my analytical processing did not necessarily diminish, it took somewhat of a back seat to this new, creative and innovative mindset that surprised me. However, I have not taken this for granted and, as a result, discovered a new purpose for my life that has opened more doors than I could ever imagine.     Before the accident, I was completely engrained in being an accountant. After the accident, I struggled for a couple of years. I had been on medical leave for about six months and went back to my CPA job too early.   After the car wreck, I was in the hospital for 17 days and subsequently went back and forth for additional surgeries and treatments. In all, I suffered from short-term memory issues, lost the vision in my right eye, and sustained multiple fractures, including my skull, eye orbit, hand, thigh and all of her toes. I found it extremely challenging for a while to cope with my disabilities. I endured extensive rehabilitation and even had to attend driving school to learn how to drive with just one eye, an issue to which she has had to bravely adapt. Before my accident, being in the accounting profession translated to a very competitive and fast-paced environment for me. I traveled the country meeting with CEOs of big companies, specializing in auditing work. It was a high-pressure position but I thrived in it. However, the brain damage I sustained from the accident made it challenging to navigate within my profession as easily as I once did. I did manage to work for a year at my job, and my employer was super great about it.   Recurring headaches and issues with cognitive rehabilitation measures, along loss of vision in my eye, forced meto re-evaluate my professional goals. At the urging of my ophthalmologist, who advised me that putting pen to paper helps retrain the brain and aids in depth perception, I enrolled in an art class. This just so happened to pave the way to an unchartered, yet equally exciting, territory for me.   “I had this desire to draw and paint, which I thought was rather strange for me. As such, I enrolled in the Art Institute of California - Sacramento and took a Basic Drafting and Color Theory Class. This provided the first steppingstone on my new journey. Moving slowly but deliberately, I eventually quit my CPA job and began to acquire enough course credits over a period of a few years to ultimately earn a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, which was a great complement to her previous Bachelor’s degree in Business.   By 2011, I was eager to find a new job, sending out myriad resumes to potential employers. My efforts, though, appeared to be somewhat futile. As a result, I looked within myself to discover my next plan of action.   I realized I knew all about business and figured I could just start my own.   Fortunately, I began a personal project during my rehabilitation that created an initial customer base for me. While I was in school, I started a blog about my injury and subsequent recovery. Several of my former CPA clients and colleagues followed me in that space. When I announced my new business through that platform, many of them hired her to do interior design work.   Initially,I opened a furniture boutique eight years ago called The Shoppe at KTJ Design Co, located in an old candy factory in midtown Stockton in the Fremont Corridor. From there my business began to grow, and today I have found myself in demand and continually inspired to flex my creative muscles.   Through interior design I have happily discovered my analytical abilities transition seamlessly and are highly applicable to the work I now do.   With interior design, we draft plans and rely on geometry and dimensioning, along with laying out and organizing projects. My experience as an accountant plays into that. I can visualize spaces easily. However, I still stumble on my words sometimes.   Along with the assistance and talent of my lead designer, Sandra Van Slack, I continue to expand her portfolio and is affiliated with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). I have also served as past President of the ASID Central California/Nevada chapter, of which she is a current member. She is also a member of the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the National Kitchen and Bath (NKB) Sacramento chapters.   When not tending to my business, I enjoys practicing yoga and experiencing adventures in travel. I also enjoys spending time with my husband, Bob, our two sons and our two granddaughters. A native Californian, Kathleen has moved about the state during her life but has found strong roots in the Central Valley.   In addition to operating her business, which also includes a general contracting company, I delight readers regularly with my “Ask the Expert “column for HERLIFE Magazine. My expertise, insight and creative genius inspire, entertain and educate readers about all things interior design.   I intend to keep on doing what I am doing for as long as I can. I love what I do and believe we have a pretty good system in place. I am happy with where I am today. I have good people around me. I like to think the Universe was correcting itself for me. I probably would’ve burnt out otherwise. I truly believe things happen for a reason. Connect with Kathleen Jennison: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 26 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Kathleen Jennison: From Trauma to Triumph in Interior Design full 715 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kathleen Jennison Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Some of us come into this business because we’re naturally-born creatives that never imagined doing anything else. Others spend time in the corporate world but embrace an inner... Today with Kathleen Jennison Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Some of us come into this business because we’re naturally-born creatives that never imagined doing anything else. Others spend time in the corporate world but embrace an inner passion. But my guest today is unique—for Kathleen Jennison, a brain injury changed the way her mind functioned and opened the door for a new path as an interior designer. Today, she’s sharing her journey and the lessons she learned along the way.  Pick it apart: [6:34] Kathleen shares her journey through trauma and how she grew her design talents from it.  [15:32] Kathleen discusses her decision to start her own business and how systems and organization helped her.  [22:39] Kathleen describes the way her business grew and the big decisions and leaps of faith she had to take as it did.  [40:38] LuAnn and Kathleen discuss evaluating projects and profitability.  [52:39] Kathleen discusses how marketing is always important, even when your business is thriving. LuAnn and Kathleen Jennison’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to be willing to take a risk. Some people are risk-averse and some people aren’t. There’s nothing wrong with having a home office and working by yourself, because you can still be successful, but it just depends on what you want to do and how you want to feel.” -Kathleen Jennison   “I look at the profitability on the project before I even present it to my client. I do a spreadsheet and see if there are adjustments I need to make ahead of time. Maybe there’s a coffee table we specified that they can find on the internet for cheaper...so let’s pick a different coffee table that is available to the trade only so we can increase our profit on it before we present it to the client.” -Kathleen Jennison   “I love that you brought out the very real point of always be marketing, but as you are building the business and you’re fine-tuning who your ideal client is, you want to always be evaluating that marketing. So we’re not going to start whatever we’re doing, but as your pipeline gets consistently full we can say, ‘Maybe we have 15 active projects in the pipeline but are they all our ideal clients?’ When you do have those projects in your pipeline you can be a little bit riskier in your marketing and start speaking just to the ideal client.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kathleen Jennison: About KTJ Design Co. Kathleen Jennison | Owner & Lead Designer Hello! I’m Kathleen Jennison, and I offer interior design services for forward-thinking homeowners, regardless of whether they know what their style is. I specialize in helping people just like you create an environment with resources and materials appropriate for their needs and budget. As a full service interior designer, I use the Meticulous Method, providing plans with complete interior design specifications for both new and existing properties. My goal is to thrill and delight each client with every project. In addition to my suite of interior design services, I also own a general contracting company. Because of this, I’m happy to provide general contracting services for your project as needed. I also welcome partnerships with any professional who is serving your project, including architects, other general contractors, and landscape designers. This multifaceted approach helps me provide creative and technical solutions while also enhancing the quality of life for my clients.   Before becoming an interior designer, I enjoyed a long career as a Certified Public Accountant and was an auditor of many large corporations. This highly analytical and technical career coupled with my (second) Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design ensures that I am well-equipped to handle any challenges that might arise during a project. A traumatic brain injury propelled this talented interior designer to unexpected heights. . . .  When you are introduced to a person’s life story, you often can’t help but believe certain things happen by design. In some instances, this can be applied both literally and figuratively. For me, an unexpected and traumatic circumstance gave me one of two options: live my life by design or live it by default. I chose the former and have never looked back. Up until 15 years agoI used to be a hard-charging, successful CPA. However, my career hit a detour when a car accident in which I was involved in 2006 suddenly changed the trajectory of my ambitions. After experiencing a traumatic brain injury as a result of the accident, my analytical mindset pivoted in a new direction. While my analytical processing did not necessarily diminish, it took somewhat of a back seat to this new, creative and innovative mindset that surprised me. However, I have not taken this for granted and, as a result, discovered a new purpose for my life that has opened more doors than I could ever imagine.     Before the accident, I was completely engrained in being an accountant. After the accident, I struggled for a couple of years. I had been on medical leave for about six months and went back to my CPA job too early.   After the car wreck, I was in the hospital for 17 days and subsequently went back and forth for additional surgeries and treatments. In all, I suffered from short-term memory issues, lost the vision in my right eye, and sustained multiple fractures, including my skull, eye orbit, hand, thigh and all of her toes. I found it extremely challenging for a while to cope with my disabilities. I endured extensive rehabilitation and even had to attend driving school to learn how to drive with just one eye, an issue to which she has had to bravely adapt. Before my accident, being in the accounting profession translated to a very competitive and fast-paced environment for me. I traveled the country meeting with CEOs of big companies, specializing in auditing work. It was a high-pressure position but I thrived in it. However, the brain damage I sustained from the accident made it challenging to navigate within my profession as easily as I once did. I did manage to work for a year at my job, and my employer was super great about it.   Recurring headaches and issues with cognitive rehabilitation measures, along loss of vision in my eye, forced meto re-evaluate my professional goals. At the urging of my ophthalmologist, who advised me that putting pen to paper helps retrain the brain and aids in depth perception, I enrolled in an art class. This just so happened to pave the way to an unchartered, yet equally exciting, territory for me.   “I had this desire to draw and paint, which I thought was rather strange for me. As such, I enrolled in the Art Institute of California - Sacramento and took a Basic Drafting and Color Theory Class. This provided the first steppingstone on my new journey. Moving slowly but deliberately, I eventually quit my CPA job and began to acquire enough course credits over a period of a few years to ultimately earn a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, which was a great complement to her previous Bachelor’s degree in Business.   By 2011, I was eager to find a new job, sending out myriad resumes to potential employers. My efforts, though, appeared to be somewhat futile. As a result, I looked within myself to discover my next plan of action.   I realized I knew all about business and figured I could just start my own.   Fortunately, I began a personal project during my rehabilitation that created an initial customer base for me. While I was in school, I started a blog about my injury and subsequent recovery. Several of my former CPA clients and colleagues followed me in that space. When I announced my new business through that platform, many of them hired her to do interior design work.   Initially,I opened a furniture boutique eight years ago called The Shoppe at KTJ Design Co, located in an old candy factory in midtown Stockton in the Fremont Corridor. From there my business began to grow, and today I have found myself in demand and continually inspired to flex my creative muscles.   Through interior design I have happily discovered my analytical abilities transition seamlessly and are highly applicable to the work I now do.   With interior design, we draft plans and rely on geometry and dimensioning, along with laying out and organizing projects. My experience as an accountant plays into that. I can visualize spaces easily. However, I still stumble on my words sometimes.   Along with the assistance and talent of my lead designer, Sandra Van Slack, I continue to expand her portfolio and is affiliated with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). I have also served as past President of the ASID Central California/Nevada chapter, of which she is a current member. She is also a member of the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the National Kitchen and Bath (NKB) Sacramento chapters.   When not tending to my business, I enjoys practicing yoga and experiencing adventures in travel. I also enjoys spending time with my husband, Bob, our two sons and our two granddaughters. A native Californian, Kathleen has moved about the state during her life but has found strong roots in the Central Valley.   In addition to operating her business, which also includes a general contracting company, I delight readers regularly with my “Ask the Expert “column for HERLIFE Magazine. My expertise, insight and creative genius inspire, entertain and educate readers about all things interior design.   I intend to keep on doing what I am doing for as long as I can. I love what I do and believe we have a pretty good system in place. I am happy with where I am today. I have good people around me. I like to think the Universe was correcting itself for me. I probably would’ve burnt out otherwise. I truly believe things happen for a reason. Connect with Kathleen Jennison: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Today with Kathleen Jennison

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Some of us come into this business because we’re naturally-born creatives that never imagined doing anything else. Others spend time in the corporate world but embrace an inner passion. But my guest today is unique—for Kathleen Jennison, a brain injury changed the way her mind functioned and opened the door for a new path as an interior designer. Today, she’s sharing her journey and the lessons she learned along the way. 

Pick it apart:

[6:34] Kathleen shares her journey through trauma and how she grew her design talents from it. 

[15:32] Kathleen discusses her decision to start her own business and how systems and organization helped her. 

[22:39] Kathleen describes the way her business grew and the big decisions and leaps of faith she had to take as it did. 

[40:38] LuAnn and Kathleen discuss evaluating projects and profitability. 

[52:39] Kathleen discusses how marketing is always important, even when your business is thriving.

LuAnn and Kathleen Jennison’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You have to be willing to take a risk. Some people are risk-averse and some people aren’t. There’s nothing wrong with having a home office and working by yourself, because you can still be successful, but it just depends on what you want to do and how you want to feel.” -Kathleen Jennison

 

“I look at the profitability on the project before I even present it to my client. I do a spreadsheet and see if there are adjustments I need to make ahead of time. Maybe there’s a coffee table we specified that they can find on the internet for cheaper...so let’s pick a different coffee table that is available to the trade only so we can increase our profit on it before we present it to the client.” -Kathleen Jennison

 

“I love that you brought out the very real point of always be marketing, but as you are building the business and you’re fine-tuning who your ideal client is, you want to always be evaluating that marketing. So we’re not going to start whatever we’re doing, but as your pipeline gets consistently full we can say, ‘Maybe we have 15 active projects in the pipeline but are they all our ideal clients?’ When you do have those projects in your pipeline you can be a little bit riskier in your marketing and start speaking just to the ideal client.” -LuAnn Nigara

More about Kathleen Jennison:

About KTJ Design Co. Kathleen Jennison | Owner & Lead Designer

Hello! I’m Kathleen Jennison, and I offer interior design services for forward-thinking homeowners, regardless of whether they know what their style is. I specialize in helping people just like you create an environment with resources and materials appropriate for their needs and budget. As a full service interior designer, I use the Meticulous Method, providing plans with complete interior design specifications for both new and existing properties. My goal is to thrill and delight each client with every project.

In addition to my suite of interior design services, I also own a general contracting company. Because of this, I’m happy to provide general contracting services for your project as needed. I also welcome partnerships with any professional who is serving your project, including architects, other general contractors, and landscape designers. This multifaceted approach helps me provide creative and technical solutions while also enhancing the quality of life for my clients.  

Before becoming an interior designer, I enjoyed a long career as a Certified Public Accountant and was an auditor of many large corporations. This highly analytical and technical career coupled with my (second) Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design ensures that I am well-equipped to handle any challenges that might arise during a project.

A traumatic brain injury propelled this talented interior designer to unexpected heights. . . .

 When you are introduced to a person’s life story, you often can’t help but believe certain things happen by design. In some instances, this can be applied both literally and figuratively. For me, an unexpected and traumatic circumstance gave me one of two options: live my life by design or live it by default. I chose the former and have never looked back.

Up until 15 years agoI used to be a hard-charging, successful CPA. However, my career hit a detour when a car accident in which I was involved in 2006 suddenly changed the trajectory of my ambitions. After experiencing a traumatic brain injury as a result of the accident, my analytical mindset pivoted in a new direction. While my analytical processing did not necessarily diminish, it took somewhat of a back seat to this new, creative and innovative mindset that surprised me. However, I have not taken this for granted and, as a result, discovered a new purpose for my life that has opened more doors than I could ever imagine.

    Before the accident, I was completely engrained in being an accountant. After the accident, I struggled for a couple of years. I had been on medical leave for about six months and went back to my CPA job too early.

  After the car wreck, I was in the hospital for 17 days and subsequently went back and forth for additional surgeries and treatments. In all, I suffered from short-term memory issues, lost the vision in my right eye, and sustained multiple fractures, including my skull, eye orbit, hand, thigh and all of her toes. I found it extremely challenging for a while to cope with my disabilities. I endured extensive rehabilitation and even had to attend driving school to learn how to drive with just one eye, an issue to which she has had to bravely adapt.

Before my accident, being in the accounting profession translated to a very competitive and fast-paced environment for me. I traveled the country meeting with CEOs of big companies, specializing in auditing work. It was a high-pressure position but I thrived in it. However, the brain damage I sustained from the accident made it challenging to navigate within my profession as easily as I once did. I did manage to work for a year at my job, and my employer was super great about it.

  Recurring headaches and issues with cognitive rehabilitation measures, along loss of vision in my eye, forced meto re-evaluate my professional goals. At the urging of my ophthalmologist, who advised me that putting pen to paper helps retrain the brain and aids in depth perception, I enrolled in an art class. This just so happened to pave the way to an unchartered, yet equally exciting, territory for me.

  “I had this desire to draw and paint, which I thought was rather strange for me. As such, I enrolled in the Art Institute of California - Sacramento and took a Basic Drafting and Color Theory Class. This provided the first steppingstone on my new journey. Moving slowly but deliberately, I eventually quit my CPA job and began to acquire enough course credits over a period of a few years to ultimately earn a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, which was a great complement to her previous Bachelor’s degree in Business.

  By 2011, I was eager to find a new job, sending out myriad resumes to potential employers. My efforts, though, appeared to be somewhat futile. As a result, I looked within myself to discover my next plan of action.

  I realized I knew all about business and figured I could just start my own.

  Fortunately, I began a personal project during my rehabilitation that created an initial customer base for me. While I was in school, I started a blog about my injury and subsequent recovery. Several of my former CPA clients and colleagues followed me in that space. When I announced my new business through that platform, many of them hired her to do interior design work.

  Initially,I opened a furniture boutique eight years ago called The Shoppe at KTJ Design Co, located in an old candy factory in midtown Stockton in the Fremont Corridor. From there my business began to grow, and today I have found myself in demand and continually inspired to flex my creative muscles.

  Through interior design I have happily discovered my analytical abilities transition seamlessly and are highly applicable to the work I now do.

  With interior design, we draft plans and rely on geometry and dimensioning, along with laying out and organizing projects. My experience as an accountant plays into that. I can visualize spaces easily. However, I still stumble on my words sometimes.

  Along with the assistance and talent of my lead designer, Sandra Van Slack, I continue to expand her portfolio and is affiliated with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). I have also served as past President of the ASID Central California/Nevada chapter, of which she is a current member. She is also a member of the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the National Kitchen and Bath (NKB) Sacramento chapters.

  When not tending to my business, I enjoys practicing yoga and experiencing adventures in travel. I also enjoys spending time with my husband, Bob, our two sons and our two granddaughters. A native Californian, Kathleen has moved about the state during her life but has found strong roots in the Central Valley.

  In addition to operating her business, which also includes a general contracting company, I delight readers regularly with my “Ask the Expert “column for HERLIFE Magazine. My expertise, insight and creative genius inspire, entertain and educate readers about all things interior design.

  I intend to keep on doing what I am doing for as long as I can. I love what I do and believe we have a pretty good system in place. I am happy with where I am today. I have good people around me. I like to think the Universe was correcting itself for me. I probably would’ve burnt out otherwise. I truly believe things happen for a reason.

Connect with Kathleen Jennison:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 3923 no 714: Power Talk Friday: Braden Drake: Quit Being Afraid of Your Tax Attorney http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/714-power-talk-friday-braden-drake-quit-being-afraid-of-your-tax-attorney Today with Braden Drake: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Braden Drake of Unf*uck Your Biz podcast is a California tax attorney specializing in helping creatives made sense of business finances and tax law. He’s sharing all about business entities, business insurance, and CPA service structures. He’s sharing his lighthearted and easy-to-follow education style that empowers creatives to understanding the foundational principles of money and business tax law. Pick it apart: [12:15] Braden shares the non-negotiable insurance a business should have [18:02] LuAnn asks Braden about how to handle business registration and nexus for businesses that work and do business in multiples states [23:34] Braden breaks down LLCs, Corporations, and S Corps [27:44] Braden reviews a simple math example of when it makes sense to be an S Corp [36:42] Braden explains the different business models of CPAs [42:31] Braden shares about his upcoming educational program LuAnn and Braden Drake’s Ah-Ha moments: “You get what you pay for - are you paying for consulting services?” - Braden Drake More About Braden Drake: Braden is a California licensed attorney and tax professional. His tagline is your gay best friend here to help you get your legal and tax shit legit. Braden works primarily with service based, creative small business owners through his courses where he educates on contracts, business entities, cash flow, systems and taxes. Connect with Braden Drake: Website  Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest Podcast Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.   Fri, 22 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Braden Drake: Quit Being Afraid of Your Tax Attorney full 714 LuAnn Nigara Today with Braden Drake: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Braden Drake of Unf*uck Your Biz podcast is a California tax attorney specializing in helping creatives made sense of business finances and tax law. He’s sharing all about business... Today with Braden Drake: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Braden Drake of Unf*uck Your Biz podcast is a California tax attorney specializing in helping creatives made sense of business finances and tax law. He’s sharing all about business entities, business insurance, and CPA service structures. He’s sharing his lighthearted and easy-to-follow education style that empowers creatives to understanding the foundational principles of money and business tax law. Pick it apart: [12:15] Braden shares the non-negotiable insurance a business should have [18:02] LuAnn asks Braden about how to handle business registration and nexus for businesses that work and do business in multiples states [23:34] Braden breaks down LLCs, Corporations, and S Corps [27:44] Braden reviews a simple math example of when it makes sense to be an S Corp [36:42] Braden explains the different business models of CPAs [42:31] Braden shares about his upcoming educational program LuAnn and Braden Drake’s Ah-Ha moments: “You get what you pay for - are you paying for consulting services?” - Braden Drake More About Braden Drake: Braden is a California licensed attorney and tax professional. His tagline is your gay best friend here to help you get your legal and tax shit legit. Braden works primarily with service based, creative small business owners through his courses where he educates on contracts, business entities, cash flow, systems and taxes. Connect with Braden Drake: Website  Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest Podcast Book What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.   Today with Braden Drake:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Braden Drake of Unf*uck Your Biz podcast is a California tax attorney specializing in helping creatives made sense of business finances and tax law. He’s sharing all about business entities, business insurance, and CPA service structures. He’s sharing his lighthearted and easy-to-follow education style that empowers creatives to understanding the foundational principles of money and business tax law.

Pick it apart:

  • [12:15] Braden shares the non-negotiable insurance a business should have

    [18:02] LuAnn asks Braden about how to handle business registration and nexus for businesses that work and do business in multiples states

    [23:34] Braden breaks down LLCs, Corporations, and S Corps

    [27:44] Braden reviews a simple math example of when it makes sense to be an S Corp

    [36:42] Braden explains the different business models of CPAs

    [42:31] Braden shares about his upcoming educational program

LuAnn and Braden Drake’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You get what you pay for - are you paying for consulting services?” - Braden Drake

More About Braden Drake:

Braden is a California licensed attorney and tax professional. His tagline is your gay best friend here to help you get your legal and tax shit legit. Braden works primarily with service based, creative small business owners through his courses where he educates on contracts, business entities, cash flow, systems and taxes.

Connect with Braden Drake:

Website 

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Podcast

Book

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

 

]]> 3659 no 713: Geoff Siebold: Luxury Carpet Knowledge for the Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/713-geoff-siebold-luxury-carpet-knowledge-for-the-interior-designer Today with Geoff Siebold Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving into the world of luxury carpets. While most of us don’t understand the intricate inner workings of carpets, my guest today, Geoff Siebold of Stanton Carpet, thinks that we should, and I agree with him. In this episode, Geoff explains to me what we need to understand about the practicality of different carpet types so that we can steer our clients in the right direction and offer them more value through our own knowledge and expertise. Pick it apart: [4:15] Geoff discusses how the environment and lifestyle of your clients affect carpet choice, and what “practical luxury” means.  [10:49] Geoff highlights how synthetic carpets have improved over time, offering more choices for your clients.  [22:00] Geoff gives us a deep-dive into the construction of carpets and what it means for your clients.  [33:10] Geoff and LuAnn discuss how different traffic areas impact carpet choices, and talk about a special tool to help your clients.  [44:57] Geoff reminds us of the factors that affect a carpet’s performance. LuAnn and Geoff Siebold's Ah-Ha moments: “It’s important to understand your environment….One of the catchphrases for Stanton is ‘practical luxury.’ It’s having a product that looks fantastic but is suited either with fiber or construction to withstand everyday maintenance. There certainly is a time and a place for the luxury setting, whether it’s a master suite, or you’re an empty nester and there isn’t a lot of traffic or pets. But as a general rule, you want to make sure that if it’s a space with a lot of traffic, it’s a durable construction.” -Geoff Siebold   “What you’re saying is that companies like yours, Stanton, the big products, if your mission is to educate the sales staff and support staff at the designer trade room, then we only have to say to them, ‘I want more information beyond the look the style, the feel, I want to really understand what it is that I should know about carpeting so that I am an informed person when I go to do my projects.’” -LuAnn Nigara   “I think many of the designers that are bold enough, and brave enough, and assertive enough to bring knowledge to the table, those are the ones that add value. It’s not ‘whatever the end-user wants, the end-user gets,’ it’s got to be one of those things where not only do we know what’s best for the interior in terms of color, style, and pattern, but now we need to talk about the actual practical living that you’re going to have to accommodate to get this type of product. That upfront management of expectations is so important.” -Geoff Siebold More about Geoff Siebold: Geoff Siebold has been passionately engaged in the luxury carpet and area rug market for over 22 years. He began his career as a manufacturer's sales agent representing high-end carpet and rug brands throughout the Midwestern United States. He was responsible for cultivating business from designers, architectural firms and wholesale-direct showrooms. Within a year, he was hired by one of the manufacturers to become their Midwest Regional V.P. of sales. He was the youngest manager in the company's history. From there he moved on to be a National Director of Dealer Sales for a prominent luxury area rug manufacturer. In early 2007, Geoff returned to his agency roots and once again represented the best domestic and international manufacturers and distributors in the luxury carpet market.    Then, in 2014, Stanton Carpet hired him to be their National Sales manager for Antrim Carpet and ultimately the National V.P. of premiere brands including Antrim, Rosecore and Crescent Carpets. Geoff has extensive experience helping designers curate products and leverage technologies in order to grow business and add value to their clients. He has also developed specific training programs aimed at helping designers better understand fiber, construction and application of luxury carpets. Connect with Stanton Carpet: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet is committed to helping you serve your clients. Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders, and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!  Other Shows Mentioned: #608 Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience # 705 Jessica Mann-Amato   Tue, 19 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Geoff Siebold: Luxury Carpet Knowledge for the Interior Designer full 713 LuAnn Nigara Today with Geoff Siebold Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving into the world of luxury carpets. While most of us don’t understand the intricate inner workings of carpets, my guest today, Geoff Siebold of Stanton Carpet, thinks... Today with Geoff Siebold Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving into the world of luxury carpets. While most of us don’t understand the intricate inner workings of carpets, my guest today, Geoff Siebold of Stanton Carpet, thinks that we should, and I agree with him. In this episode, Geoff explains to me what we need to understand about the practicality of different carpet types so that we can steer our clients in the right direction and offer them more value through our own knowledge and expertise. Pick it apart: [4:15] Geoff discusses how the environment and lifestyle of your clients affect carpet choice, and what “practical luxury” means.  [10:49] Geoff highlights how synthetic carpets have improved over time, offering more choices for your clients.  [22:00] Geoff gives us a deep-dive into the construction of carpets and what it means for your clients.  [33:10] Geoff and LuAnn discuss how different traffic areas impact carpet choices, and talk about a special tool to help your clients.  [44:57] Geoff reminds us of the factors that affect a carpet’s performance. LuAnn and Geoff Siebold's Ah-Ha moments: “It’s important to understand your environment….One of the catchphrases for Stanton is ‘practical luxury.’ It’s having a product that looks fantastic but is suited either with fiber or construction to withstand everyday maintenance. There certainly is a time and a place for the luxury setting, whether it’s a master suite, or you’re an empty nester and there isn’t a lot of traffic or pets. But as a general rule, you want to make sure that if it’s a space with a lot of traffic, it’s a durable construction.” -Geoff Siebold   “What you’re saying is that companies like yours, Stanton, the big products, if your mission is to educate the sales staff and support staff at the designer trade room, then we only have to say to them, ‘I want more information beyond the look the style, the feel, I want to really understand what it is that I should know about carpeting so that I am an informed person when I go to do my projects.’” -LuAnn Nigara   “I think many of the designers that are bold enough, and brave enough, and assertive enough to bring knowledge to the table, those are the ones that add value. It’s not ‘whatever the end-user wants, the end-user gets,’ it’s got to be one of those things where not only do we know what’s best for the interior in terms of color, style, and pattern, but now we need to talk about the actual practical living that you’re going to have to accommodate to get this type of product. That upfront management of expectations is so important.” -Geoff Siebold More about Geoff Siebold: Geoff Siebold has been passionately engaged in the luxury carpet and area rug market for over 22 years. He began his career as a manufacturer's sales agent representing high-end carpet and rug brands throughout the Midwestern United States. He was responsible for cultivating business from designers, architectural firms and wholesale-direct showrooms. Within a year, he was hired by one of the manufacturers to become their Midwest Regional V.P. of sales. He was the youngest manager in the company's history. From there he moved on to be a National Director of Dealer Sales for a prominent luxury area rug manufacturer. In early 2007, Geoff returned to his agency roots and once again represented the best domestic and international manufacturers and distributors in the luxury carpet market.    Then, in 2014, Stanton Carpet hired him to be their National Sales manager for Antrim Carpet and ultimately the National V.P. of premiere brands including Antrim, Rosecore and Crescent Carpets. Geoff has extensive experience helping designers curate products and leverage technologies in order to grow business and add value to their clients. He has also developed specific training programs aimed at helping designers better understand fiber, construction and application of luxury carpets. Connect with Stanton Carpet: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet is committed to helping you serve your clients. Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders, and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!  Other Shows Mentioned: #608 Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience # 705 Jessica Mann-Amato   Today with Geoff Siebold

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re diving into the world of luxury carpets. While most of us don’t understand the intricate inner workings of carpets, my guest today, Geoff Siebold of Stanton Carpet, thinks that we should, and I agree with him. In this episode, Geoff explains to me what we need to understand about the practicality of different carpet types so that we can steer our clients in the right direction and offer them more value through our own knowledge and expertise.

Pick it apart:

  • [4:15] Geoff discusses how the environment and lifestyle of your clients affect carpet choice, and what “practical luxury” means. 
  • [10:49] Geoff highlights how synthetic carpets have improved over time, offering more choices for your clients. 
  • [22:00] Geoff gives us a deep-dive into the construction of carpets and what it means for your clients. 
  • [33:10] Geoff and LuAnn discuss how different traffic areas impact carpet choices, and talk about a special tool to help your clients. 
  • [44:57] Geoff reminds us of the factors that affect a carpet’s performance.

LuAnn and Geoff Siebold's Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s important to understand your environment….One of the catchphrases for Stanton is ‘practical luxury.’ It’s having a product that looks fantastic but is suited either with fiber or construction to withstand everyday maintenance. There certainly is a time and a place for the luxury setting, whether it’s a master suite, or you’re an empty nester and there isn’t a lot of traffic or pets. But as a general rule, you want to make sure that if it’s a space with a lot of traffic, it’s a durable construction.” -Geoff Siebold

 

“What you’re saying is that companies like yours, Stanton, the big products, if your mission is to educate the sales staff and support staff at the designer trade room, then we only have to say to them, ‘I want more information beyond the look the style, the feel, I want to really understand what it is that I should know about carpeting so that I am an informed person when I go to do my projects.’” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I think many of the designers that are bold enough, and brave enough, and assertive enough to bring knowledge to the table, those are the ones that add value. It’s not ‘whatever the end-user wants, the end-user gets,’ it’s got to be one of those things where not only do we know what’s best for the interior in terms of color, style, and pattern, but now we need to talk about the actual practical living that you’re going to have to accommodate to get this type of product. That upfront management of expectations is so important.” -Geoff Siebold

More about Geoff Siebold:

Geoff Siebold has been passionately engaged in the luxury carpet and area rug market for over 22 years. He began his career as a manufacturer's sales agent representing high-end carpet and rug brands throughout the Midwestern United States. He was responsible for cultivating business from designers, architectural firms and wholesale-direct showrooms. Within a year, he was hired by one of the manufacturers to become their Midwest Regional V.P. of sales. He was the youngest manager in the company's history. From there he moved on to be a National Director of Dealer Sales for a prominent luxury area rug manufacturer. In early 2007, Geoff returned to his agency roots and once again represented the best domestic and international manufacturers and distributors in the luxury carpet market. 

 

Then, in 2014, Stanton Carpet hired him to be their National Sales manager for Antrim Carpet and ultimately the National V.P. of premiere brands including Antrim, Rosecore and Crescent Carpets. Geoff has extensive experience helping designers curate products and leverage technologies in order to grow business and add value to their clients. He has also developed specific training programs aimed at helping designers better understand fiber, construction and application of luxury carpets.

Connect with Stanton Carpet:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet: Kravet is committed to helping you serve your clients. Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders, and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order! 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#608 Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience

# 705 Jessica Mann-Amato

 

]]> 3415 no 712: Power Talk Friday: Molly Schoneveld: Leveling Up Your Interior Design Business to Celebrity Status http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/712-power-talk-friday-molly-schoneveld-leveling-up-your-interior-design-business-to-celebrity-status Today with Molly Schoneveld: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Some of you aspire to be a designer that helps people in your community live better, feel better, and appreciate their spaces more. Others want to design for the high-end client, creating luxury spaces. But others want something a little bit different—to become celebrity designers featured on television and in major publications. Today, publicist Molly Schoneveld is going to share with us how you structure your career to strategically build up your persona and work toward that celebrity status.  Pick it apart: [1:21] Molly shares what your number one job is when you desire to be a celebrity designer.  [15:21] Molly and LuAnn discuss the importance of having a signature style and investing in quality photography for your portfolio. [27:03] Molly explains why niching is even more important if you want to become a celebrity designer.  [30:30] Molly lays out the steps to getting featured in the media as a designer.  [42:54] Molly shares what it takes to reach out for collaborations and cross-promotions to help grow your online presence. LuAnn and Molly Schoneveld’s Ah-Ha moments: “What do you want to be known for? ONe of the commonalities between people who want to be on television and those who just want successful firms is that if you want to be known, you have to hone your own style.” -Molly   “Having a point of view or a signature style...we all know designer colleagues that will design a beautiful Mediterranean home, or a Scandinavian design, or whatever it is, but what you’re saying is that if you’re going to be a celebrity designer, you have to dive into a niche.” -LuAnn   “Certainly you can get publicity without a niche, if your projects are of a certain caliber. Getting your project placed is one thing. Trying to really build your personal brand and your studio brand is something else. So having a point of view is really the thing you need, if you want to take it to the next level.” -Molly More About Molly Schoneveld: Molly Schoneveld founded The Storied Group in 2008 (under the name SW PR SHOP) to offer a unique point of view at the intersection of entertainment, design, and luxury lifestyle. She has over 15 years of experience in PR and marketing, beginning her PR career at PMK/HBH (now Rogers & Cowan PMK), where she worked with A-list talent, as well as on Oscar campaigns for directors, producers and films. In 2007, she left PMK to launch her sister-in-law's maternity line called Schone Maternity.
The line was enormously successful, being touted by O, The Oprah Magazine as "the really good guy of the month" for their dedication to fair labor factories and support of artisans across the globe. It was working with Rebecca that ignited Molly's entrepreneurial spirit, and while she loved the gratification of watching this new line prosper, she missed the diversity of working with more than one client. It wasn't long before she formed a partnership with a former PMK/HBH colleague Jennifer Weaver to begin SW PR Shop. The two grew the business together for nine years until Jennifer moved out of state. Molly took over the company and rebranded under the name The Storied Group. Career highlights Include putting the Interior design firm Hammer and Spear on the map as a design destination In the downtown L.A. Arts District, and helping to transform Golden Door, which had become a tired brand that was once a pioneer In the wellness industry, back Into what Conde Nast Traveler called In 2019, "The Most Iconic Spa." Molly has worked with such design talent as Drew Scott of Lone Fox Home, Kishani Perera, Hammer and Spear, Lisa Gilmore Design, Marie Flanigan Interiors, The Habitat Collective, Tracie Butler, and many others. Her first job was working for producer Brian Grazer at Imagine Entertainment, the year he won the Oscar for A BEAUTIFUL MIND. Molly has built a solid reputation providing great attention and care to every client and has proven success in getting results. She has secured cover and feature stories in domestic and international publications, including Architectural Digest, WSJ, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Veranda, InStyle, House Beautiful, Departures, New York Times, Robb Report, Sunset, as well as numerous television segments with a national audience. Connect with Molly Schoneveld: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s new website, finding the products you need is easier than ever. Designers can now search for more tailored results so you can get the exact search results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today and try the new advanced search options for yourself. Other Shows Mentioned:  #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years   #648 Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design Fri, 15 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Molly Schoneveld: Leveling Up Your Interior Design Business to Celebrity Status full 712 LuAnn Nigara Today with Molly Schoneveld: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Some of you aspire to be a designer that helps people in your community live better, feel better, and appreciate their spaces more. Others want to design for the high-end client,... Today with Molly Schoneveld: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Some of you aspire to be a designer that helps people in your community live better, feel better, and appreciate their spaces more. Others want to design for the high-end client, creating luxury spaces. But others want something a little bit different—to become celebrity designers featured on television and in major publications. Today, publicist Molly Schoneveld is going to share with us how you structure your career to strategically build up your persona and work toward that celebrity status.  Pick it apart: [1:21] Molly shares what your number one job is when you desire to be a celebrity designer.  [15:21] Molly and LuAnn discuss the importance of having a signature style and investing in quality photography for your portfolio. [27:03] Molly explains why niching is even more important if you want to become a celebrity designer.  [30:30] Molly lays out the steps to getting featured in the media as a designer.  [42:54] Molly shares what it takes to reach out for collaborations and cross-promotions to help grow your online presence. LuAnn and Molly Schoneveld’s Ah-Ha moments: “What do you want to be known for? ONe of the commonalities between people who want to be on television and those who just want successful firms is that if you want to be known, you have to hone your own style.” -Molly   “Having a point of view or a signature style...we all know designer colleagues that will design a beautiful Mediterranean home, or a Scandinavian design, or whatever it is, but what you’re saying is that if you’re going to be a celebrity designer, you have to dive into a niche.” -LuAnn   “Certainly you can get publicity without a niche, if your projects are of a certain caliber. Getting your project placed is one thing. Trying to really build your personal brand and your studio brand is something else. So having a point of view is really the thing you need, if you want to take it to the next level.” -Molly More About Molly Schoneveld: Molly Schoneveld founded The Storied Group in 2008 (under the name SW PR SHOP) to offer a unique point of view at the intersection of entertainment, design, and luxury lifestyle. She has over 15 years of experience in PR and marketing, beginning her PR career at PMK/HBH (now Rogers & Cowan PMK), where she worked with A-list talent, as well as on Oscar campaigns for directors, producers and films. In 2007, she left PMK to launch her sister-in-law's maternity line called Schone Maternity.
The line was enormously successful, being touted by O, The Oprah Magazine as "the really good guy of the month" for their dedication to fair labor factories and support of artisans across the globe. It was working with Rebecca that ignited Molly's entrepreneurial spirit, and while she loved the gratification of watching this new line prosper, she missed the diversity of working with more than one client. It wasn't long before she formed a partnership with a former PMK/HBH colleague Jennifer Weaver to begin SW PR Shop. The two grew the business together for nine years until Jennifer moved out of state. Molly took over the company and rebranded under the name The Storied Group. Career highlights Include putting the Interior design firm Hammer and Spear on the map as a design destination In the downtown L.A. Arts District, and helping to transform Golden Door, which had become a tired brand that was once a pioneer In the wellness industry, back Into what Conde Nast Traveler called In 2019, "The Most Iconic Spa." Molly has worked with such design talent as Drew Scott of Lone Fox Home, Kishani Perera, Hammer and Spear, Lisa Gilmore Design, Marie Flanigan Interiors, The Habitat Collective, Tracie Butler, and many others. Her first job was working for producer Brian Grazer at Imagine Entertainment, the year he won the Oscar for A BEAUTIFUL MIND. Molly has built a solid reputation providing great attention and care to every client and has proven success in getting results. She has secured cover and feature stories in domestic and international publications, including Architectural Digest, WSJ, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Veranda, InStyle, House Beautiful, Departures, New York Times, Robb Report, Sunset, as well as numerous television segments with a national audience. Connect with Molly Schoneveld: Website  Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s new website, finding the products you need is easier than ever. Designers can now search for more tailored results so you can get the exact search results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today and try the new advanced search options for yourself. Other Shows Mentioned:  #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years   #648 Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design Today with Molly Schoneveld:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Some of you aspire to be a designer that helps people in your community live better, feel better, and appreciate their spaces more. Others want to design for the high-end client, creating luxury spaces. But others want something a little bit different—to become celebrity designers featured on television and in major publications. Today, publicist Molly Schoneveld is going to share with us how you structure your career to strategically build up your persona and work toward that celebrity status. 

Pick it apart:

  • [1:21] Molly shares what your number one job is when you desire to be a celebrity designer. 
  • [15:21] Molly and LuAnn discuss the importance of having a signature style and investing in quality photography for your portfolio.
  • [27:03] Molly explains why niching is even more important if you want to become a celebrity designer. 
  • [30:30] Molly lays out the steps to getting featured in the media as a designer. 
  • [42:54] Molly shares what it takes to reach out for collaborations and cross-promotions to help grow your online presence.

LuAnn and Molly Schoneveld’s Ah-Ha moments:

“What do you want to be known for? ONe of the commonalities between people who want to be on television and those who just want successful firms is that if you want to be known, you have to hone your own style.” -Molly

 

“Having a point of view or a signature style...we all know designer colleagues that will design a beautiful Mediterranean home, or a Scandinavian design, or whatever it is, but what you’re saying is that if you’re going to be a celebrity designer, you have to dive into a niche.” -LuAnn

 

“Certainly you can get publicity without a niche, if your projects are of a certain caliber. Getting your project placed is one thing. Trying to really build your personal brand and your studio brand is something else. So having a point of view is really the thing you need, if you want to take it to the next level.” -Molly

More About Molly Schoneveld:

Molly Schoneveld founded The Storied Group in 2008 (under the name SW PR SHOP) to offer a unique point of view at the intersection of entertainment, design, and luxury lifestyle. She has over 15 years of experience in PR and marketing, beginning her PR career at PMK/HBH (now Rogers & Cowan PMK), where she worked with A-list talent, as well as on Oscar campaigns for directors, producers and films. In 2007, she left PMK to launch her sister-in-law's maternity line called Schone Maternity.
The line was enormously successful, being touted by O, The Oprah Magazine as "the really good guy of the month" for their dedication to fair labor factories and support of artisans across the globe. It was working with Rebecca that ignited Molly's entrepreneurial spirit, and while she loved the gratification of watching this new line prosper, she missed the diversity of working with more than one client. It wasn't long before she formed a partnership with a former PMK/HBH colleague Jennifer Weaver to begin SW PR Shop. The two grew the business together for nine years until Jennifer moved out of state. Molly took over the company and rebranded under the name The Storied Group. Career highlights Include putting the Interior design firm Hammer and Spear on the map as a design destination In the downtown L.A. Arts District, and helping to transform Golden Door, which had become a tired brand that was once a pioneer In the wellness industry, back Into what Conde Nast Traveler called In 2019, "The Most Iconic Spa." Molly has worked with such design talent as Drew Scott of Lone Fox Home, Kishani Perera, Hammer and Spear, Lisa Gilmore Design, Marie Flanigan Interiors, The Habitat Collective, Tracie Butler, and many others. Her first job was working for producer Brian Grazer at Imagine Entertainment, the year he won the Oscar for A BEAUTIFUL MIND. Molly has built a solid reputation providing great attention and care to every client and has proven success in getting results. She has secured cover and feature stories in domestic and international publications, including Architectural Digest, WSJ, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Veranda, InStyle, House Beautiful, Departures, New York Times, Robb Report, Sunset, as well as numerous television segments with a national audience.

Connect with Molly Schoneveld:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s new website, finding the products you need is easier than ever. Designers can now search for more tailored results so you can get the exact search results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today and try the new advanced search options for yourself.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

 

#648 Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design

]]> 4942 no 711: Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/711-christine-platt-the-afrominimalist Today with Christine Platt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Christine Platt, the author of The Afrominimalists Guide to Living with Less offers a fresh take on minimalism, why it’s not just a one-day throw-out marathon, and what it takes to get to the core of how we got overwhelmed with clutter in the first place. Pick it apart: [7:58] Christine shares where to start your journey of discovery   [14:35] Christine describes her one day, one year challenge   [18:16] Christine shares what minimalism means for her   [23:40] Christine shares about buy-nothing groups as a way to release your items   [45:35] Christine summarizes her theory of minimalism LuAnn and Christine Platt’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, minimalism is really just about being a more mindful, intentional consumer - just having the things you need and love in your life.” - Christine Platt   “It’s good for your own mental health - clutter takes up physical space and mental space.” - Christine Platt   “Our natural way of being is always to just have enough.” - Christine Platt   “We have to learn to be content with enough.” - Christine Platt More about Chrsitine Platt: Christine Platt is a modern-day renaissance woman also known as The Afrominimalist. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies, M.A. in African-American Studies, and J.D. in General Law. An award-winning author of over two dozen literary works, Christine’s most recent book, THE AFROMINIMALIST’S GUIDE TO LIVING WITH LESS is a radical re-envisioning of minimalism that focuses on authenticity over aesthetics. A resource for anyone seeking to discover the truth behind their overconsumption as well as how to let go of what no longer serves them, The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living with Less encourages us to be intentional, mindful consumers so our lives are filled with only those things we need, use, and love. Visit her online at TheAfrominimalist or on Instagram @afrominimalist. Connect with Christine Platt: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months. Tue, 12 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist full 711 LuAnn Nigara Today with Christine Platt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Christine Platt, the author of The Afrominimalists Guide to Living with Less offers a fresh take on minimalism, why it’s not just a one-day throw-out marathon, and what it takes to get... Today with Christine Platt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Christine Platt, the author of The Afrominimalists Guide to Living with Less offers a fresh take on minimalism, why it’s not just a one-day throw-out marathon, and what it takes to get to the core of how we got overwhelmed with clutter in the first place. Pick it apart: [7:58] Christine shares where to start your journey of discovery   [14:35] Christine describes her one day, one year challenge   [18:16] Christine shares what minimalism means for her   [23:40] Christine shares about buy-nothing groups as a way to release your items   [45:35] Christine summarizes her theory of minimalism LuAnn and Christine Platt’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, minimalism is really just about being a more mindful, intentional consumer - just having the things you need and love in your life.” - Christine Platt   “It’s good for your own mental health - clutter takes up physical space and mental space.” - Christine Platt   “Our natural way of being is always to just have enough.” - Christine Platt   “We have to learn to be content with enough.” - Christine Platt More about Chrsitine Platt: Christine Platt is a modern-day renaissance woman also known as The Afrominimalist. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies, M.A. in African-American Studies, and J.D. in General Law. An award-winning author of over two dozen literary works, Christine’s most recent book, THE AFROMINIMALIST’S GUIDE TO LIVING WITH LESS is a radical re-envisioning of minimalism that focuses on authenticity over aesthetics. A resource for anyone seeking to discover the truth behind their overconsumption as well as how to let go of what no longer serves them, The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living with Less encourages us to be intentional, mindful consumers so our lives are filled with only those things we need, use, and love. Visit her online at TheAfrominimalist or on Instagram @afrominimalist. Connect with Christine Platt: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months. Today with Christine Platt

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Christine Platt, the author of The Afrominimalists Guide to Living with Less offers a fresh take on minimalism, why it’s not just a one-day throw-out marathon, and what it takes to get to the core of how we got overwhelmed with clutter in the first place.

Pick it apart:

[7:58] Christine shares where to start your journey of discovery

 

[14:35] Christine describes her one day, one year challenge

 

[18:16] Christine shares what minimalism means for her

 

[23:40] Christine shares about buy-nothing groups as a way to release your items

 

[45:35] Christine summarizes her theory of minimalism

LuAnn and Christine Platt’s Ah-Ha moments:

“For me, minimalism is really just about being a more mindful, intentional consumer - just having the things you need and love in your life.” - Christine Platt

 

“It’s good for your own mental health - clutter takes up physical space and mental space.” - Christine Platt

 

“Our natural way of being is always to just have enough.” - Christine Platt

 

“We have to learn to be content with enough.” - Christine Platt

More about Chrsitine Platt:

Christine Platt is a modern-day renaissance woman also known as The Afrominimalist. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies, M.A. in African-American Studies, and J.D. in General Law. An award-winning author of over two dozen literary works, Christine’s most recent book, THE AFROMINIMALIST’S GUIDE TO LIVING WITH LESS is a radical re-envisioning of minimalism that focuses on authenticity over aesthetics. A resource for anyone seeking to discover the truth behind their overconsumption as well as how to let go of what no longer serves them, The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living with Less encourages us to be intentional, mindful consumers so our lives are filled with only those things we need, use, and love. Visit her online at TheAfrominimalist or on Instagram @afrominimalist.

Connect with Christine Platt:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months.

]]> 4469 no 710: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/terri-taylor-sponsored-show Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2021 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 3rd through to Friday, November 5, 2021. Overhaul Your Interior Design Business in 3 Days to Finally Get Paid What You are Worth Event dates:Nov 3-5 2021 This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual. This is an intimate group to maximize the attention given to each and every attendee. Day 1: Wednesday, November 3rd, 11AM - 7PM ET  Day 2: Thursday, November 4th, 11AM - 7PM ET Day 3: Friday November 5th, 11AM - 7PM ET  In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm. The summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 548 Episode 602 Episode 662   Fri, 08 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Get Paid What You are Worth. Sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 full 710 LuAnn Nigara Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2021 Summit, which is happening... Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2021 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 3rd through to Friday, November 5, 2021. Overhaul Your Interior Design Business in 3 Days to Finally Get Paid What You are Worth Event dates:Nov 3-5 2021 This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual. This is an intimate group to maximize the attention given to each and every attendee. Day 1: Wednesday, November 3rd, 11AM - 7PM ET  Day 2: Thursday, November 4th, 11AM - 7PM ET Day 3: Friday November 5th, 11AM - 7PM ET  In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm. The summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021 Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 548 Episode 602 Episode 662   Today With Terri Taylor:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2021 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 3rd through to Friday, November 5, 2021.

Overhaul Your Interior Design Business in 3 Days to Finally Get Paid What You are Worth

Event dates:Nov 3-5 2021

This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual.

This is an intimate group to maximize the attention given to each and every attendee.

  • Day 1: Wednesday, November 3rd, 11AM - 7PM ET 
  • Day 2: Thursday, November 4th, 11AM - 7PM ET
  • Day 3: Friday November 5th, 11AM - 7PM ET 

In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm.

The summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2021

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Website

Other Shows Mentioned:

Episode 548

Episode 602

Episode 662

 

]]> 3180 no 709: Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors:The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/709-jenny-and-ben-slingerland-of-black-ink-interiorsthe-stages-and-decisions-to-grow-your-design-business Today with Jenny and Ben Slingerland Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors share the growing pains of their luxury design firm, how they run their team, and how they fill the gaps in expertise. Jenny also details what her Design for Build course involves and how it helps her students expand their business and get the respect of builders. Pick it apart: [25:22] Ben explains what their new hire, a client experience coordinator, manages [27:24] Jenny explains how she provides initial design guidance on a project to her design staff and has designers handle client communication [38:49] Jenny shares the coaches she and Ben have hired to enhance and grow their business [44:01] Jenny explains how her class can help designers gain an additional revenue stream and how to talk to clients about the furniture stage [47:41] Jenny explains how her LuAnn University course will help designers [1:07:58] Jenny shares real advice for designers just getting their feet wet LuAnn and Jenny and Ben Slingerland’s Ah-Ha moments: “There is nothing greater to me if my students get one job or a positive response from a builder.” - Jenny Slingerland   “It’s knowing what the builder’s expectation is and delivering it in an organized, buttoned-up manner.” - Jenny Slingerland   “If you can make their life easier, they will hire you again and again.” - Jenny Slingerland More about Jenny and Ben Slingerland: Jenny is the Owner and Principal Designer of Black Ink Interiors, a luxury residential interior design firm based in Arizona. She and her team serve clients throughout the United States and the Bahamas. Jenny is known for her unique sense of style and her ability to visualize the possibilities of any space. She is an award-winning designer who has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Business of Home and Luxe Magazine.  Ben is the Chief Operating Officer of Black Ink Interiors. He left the corporate world in 2018 to join the team and oversee the back end operations, allowing Jenny and the design team to focus on the client-facing activities. Ben has an MBA and over 20 years of business experience across multiple industries and disciplines including land acquisition & development for a national homebuilder and senior procurement and human resources roles at Mars Incorporated. Connect with Black Ink Interiors: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months. Tue, 05 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors:The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business full 709 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jenny and Ben Slingerland Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors share the growing pains of their luxury design firm, how they run their team, and how they fill the gaps in expertise. Jenny... Today with Jenny and Ben Slingerland Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors share the growing pains of their luxury design firm, how they run their team, and how they fill the gaps in expertise. Jenny also details what her Design for Build course involves and how it helps her students expand their business and get the respect of builders. Pick it apart: [25:22] Ben explains what their new hire, a client experience coordinator, manages [27:24] Jenny explains how she provides initial design guidance on a project to her design staff and has designers handle client communication [38:49] Jenny shares the coaches she and Ben have hired to enhance and grow their business [44:01] Jenny explains how her class can help designers gain an additional revenue stream and how to talk to clients about the furniture stage [47:41] Jenny explains how her LuAnn University course will help designers [1:07:58] Jenny shares real advice for designers just getting their feet wet LuAnn and Jenny and Ben Slingerland’s Ah-Ha moments: “There is nothing greater to me if my students get one job or a positive response from a builder.” - Jenny Slingerland   “It’s knowing what the builder’s expectation is and delivering it in an organized, buttoned-up manner.” - Jenny Slingerland   “If you can make their life easier, they will hire you again and again.” - Jenny Slingerland More about Jenny and Ben Slingerland: Jenny is the Owner and Principal Designer of Black Ink Interiors, a luxury residential interior design firm based in Arizona. She and her team serve clients throughout the United States and the Bahamas. Jenny is known for her unique sense of style and her ability to visualize the possibilities of any space. She is an award-winning designer who has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Business of Home and Luxe Magazine.  Ben is the Chief Operating Officer of Black Ink Interiors. He left the corporate world in 2018 to join the team and oversee the back end operations, allowing Jenny and the design team to focus on the client-facing activities. Ben has an MBA and over 20 years of business experience across multiple industries and disciplines including land acquisition & development for a national homebuilder and senior procurement and human resources roles at Mars Incorporated. Connect with Black Ink Interiors: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months. Today with Jenny and Ben Slingerland

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors share the growing pains of their luxury design firm, how they run their team, and how they fill the gaps in expertise. Jenny also details what her Design for Build course involves and how it helps her students expand their business and get the respect of builders.

Pick it apart:

  • [25:22] Ben explains what their new hire, a client experience coordinator, manages

    [27:24] Jenny explains how she provides initial design guidance on a project to her design staff and has designers handle client communication

    [38:49] Jenny shares the coaches she and Ben have hired to enhance and grow their business

    [44:01] Jenny explains how her class can help designers gain an additional revenue stream and how to talk to clients about the furniture stage

    [47:41] Jenny explains how her LuAnn University course will help designers

    [1:07:58] Jenny shares real advice for designers just getting their feet wet

LuAnn and Jenny and Ben Slingerland’s Ah-Ha moments:

“There is nothing greater to me if my students get one job or a positive response from a builder.” - Jenny Slingerland

 

“It’s knowing what the builder’s expectation is and delivering it in an organized, buttoned-up manner.” - Jenny Slingerland

 

“If you can make their life easier, they will hire you again and again.” - Jenny Slingerland

More about Jenny and Ben Slingerland:

Jenny is the Owner and Principal Designer of Black Ink Interiors, a luxury residential interior design firm based in Arizona. She and her team serve clients throughout the United States and the Bahamas. Jenny is known for her unique sense of style and her ability to visualize the possibilities of any space. She is an award-winning designer who has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Business of Home and Luxe Magazine. 

Ben is the Chief Operating Officer of Black Ink Interiors. He left the corporate world in 2018 to join the team and oversee the back end operations, allowing Jenny and the design team to focus on the client-facing activities. Ben has an MBA and over 20 years of business experience across multiple industries and disciplines including land acquisition & development for a national homebuilder and senior procurement and human resources roles at Mars Incorporated.

Connect with Black Ink Interiors:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma: To learn about how it can uplevel your professionalism and organization, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and scroll down to the designer testimonial videos. Also on that site, my listeners can click to receive 20% off Mydoma for 3 months.

]]> 4482 no 708: Window Treatment Friday: Scaling for Growth with a Digital Project Management System http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/708-window-treatment-friday-scaling-for-growth-with-a-digital-project-management-system Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Ever wonder how Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. Window Treatments & Awnings has been able to scale her business and maintain a family life at the same time? Her passion for spreadsheets has helped her design and build a digitized Project Management system that streamlined her business process and serves as her center of truth. Listen now as she outlines the 10 must-have elements that every Project Management System needs. Pick It Apart:  [18:35] Vita explains show a PMS gives you the options and checklists to make sure nothing is forgotten or falls through the cracks.    [36:33] Vita shows how to use the reports from your digital project management system to evaluate your business   [39:11] Vita shares about how she has worked very hard to consistently refine the systems and processes of her business and the benefits that brings to her personal life.   [40:50] Vita shares how she got a business coach.   [43:07] Vita reviews the need for a process of project management to get your order through each project stage    [48:17] Luann talks about key project stages: waiting for approval/deposit and balance due   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “10 points to a great Project Management System, but one of my favorites is that it has to be suggestive and intuitive, a va-va-voom, sexy system!” - Vita Vygovska   “A good Project Management System can provide validation to the feelings of busy because you can see the numbers in front of you, and gives you a whole new level of awareness.” - Vita Vygovska   “Mindset is huge. Other people giving you limitations is horse crap.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 01 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling for Growth with a Digital Project Management System full 708 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Ever wonder how Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. Window Treatments & Awnings has been able to scale her business and maintain a family life at the same time? Her passion for spreadsheets... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Ever wonder how Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. Window Treatments & Awnings has been able to scale her business and maintain a family life at the same time? Her passion for spreadsheets has helped her design and build a digitized Project Management system that streamlined her business process and serves as her center of truth. Listen now as she outlines the 10 must-have elements that every Project Management System needs. Pick It Apart:  [18:35] Vita explains show a PMS gives you the options and checklists to make sure nothing is forgotten or falls through the cracks.    [36:33] Vita shows how to use the reports from your digital project management system to evaluate your business   [39:11] Vita shares about how she has worked very hard to consistently refine the systems and processes of her business and the benefits that brings to her personal life.   [40:50] Vita shares how she got a business coach.   [43:07] Vita reviews the need for a process of project management to get your order through each project stage    [48:17] Luann talks about key project stages: waiting for approval/deposit and balance due   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “10 points to a great Project Management System, but one of my favorites is that it has to be suggestive and intuitive, a va-va-voom, sexy system!” - Vita Vygovska   “A good Project Management System can provide validation to the feelings of busy because you can see the numbers in front of you, and gives you a whole new level of awareness.” - Vita Vygovska   “Mindset is huge. Other people giving you limitations is horse crap.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Vita Vygovska

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Ever wonder how Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. Window Treatments & Awnings has been able to scale her business and maintain a family life at the same time? Her passion for spreadsheets has helped her design and build a digitized Project Management system that streamlined her business process and serves as her center of truth. Listen now as she outlines the 10 must-have elements that every Project Management System needs.

Pick It Apart: 

[18:35] Vita explains show a PMS gives you the options and checklists to make sure nothing is forgotten or falls through the cracks. 

 

[36:33] Vita shows how to use the reports from your digital project management system to evaluate your business

 

[39:11] Vita shares about how she has worked very hard to consistently refine the systems and processes of her business and the benefits that brings to her personal life.

 

[40:50] Vita shares how she got a business coach.

 

[43:07] Vita reviews the need for a process of project management to get your order through each project stage 

 

[48:17] Luann talks about key project stages: waiting for approval/deposit and balance due

 

Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska:

“10 points to a great Project Management System, but one of my favorites is that it has to be suggestive and intuitive, a va-va-voom, sexy system!” - Vita Vygovska

 

“A good Project Management System can provide validation to the feelings of busy because you can see the numbers in front of you, and gives you a whole new level of awareness.” - Vita Vygovska

 

“Mindset is huge. Other people giving you limitations is horse crap.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4031 no 707: Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/707-rachel-moriarty-authenticity-and-visibility-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Rachel Moriarty Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about visibility and authenticity. So many of us are bought into the idea that niching is the right way to go. But when we go to sit down and think about what we do that’s special, we can’t figure it out. For my guest today, Rachel Moriarty, the answer came from tapping into her own existing strengths and experiences. Now, she’s sharing those insights with us! Pick it apart: [8:45] Rachel shares her biggest challenge with visibility and how she managed to overcome it.  [14:40] Rachel and LuAnn discuss how your background and strengths can play into your success as a designer—even if they aren’t related on the surface.  [36:30] Rachel talks about her own challenge with wrestling with herself and how she finally pushed through.  [44:00] LuAnn and Rachel reflect on Rachel’s ability to stand in her own light and bring her authentic self to the table. LuAnn and Rachel Moriarty’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s no competition because everybody knows exactly who they are and stand in that space so strongly.” -Rachel Moriarty   “To me, it’s non-negotiable to have people in my life that know more than I know. It’s as simple as that. Because otherwise, how am I going to know more?” -LuAnn Nigara   “I love these tight relationships that I have with my clients because it allows me to go in deep, which I think is my gift as an introvert.” -Rachel Moriarty More about Rachel Moriarty: Rachel Moriarty is an Award-Winning Designer, #1 Best Selling Author, Style Expert as well as a Color + Pattern-ista! Perhaps most importantly, Rachel is the ultimate colorful character! Those who know her and follow her on social media look forward to seeing her vibrant wardrobe, eclectic jewelry, and her ease with being what she calls ‘extra.’ Rachel’s multi-cultural roots - she is Mexican, Native American and Filipina - are an integral part of her love of diversity in design. Rachel is not afraid of color, texture, and design influences from across the globe. Raised by a Mexican-American feminist mother with a creative side, Rachel’s grandparents hail from Manila, Mexico City, the Arizona border town of Douglas, and California’a agricultural San Joaquin Valley. Rachel embodies and embraces them all as part of what makes her uniquely American and creatively equipped to design any space. Rachel embodies her personal belief that color adds interest and excitement to the world, and, like a chef seasoning a meal, she sprinkles it liberally to add passion and flavor.   Rachel’s iconic designs and unique personal philosophy have been featured in many publications, including Vision Magazine and San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyle, and Rachel has been featured on HGTV and The Design Network. Rachel has partnered with Unique Design Solutions to create her own tile color collection, and maintains an active clientele of both residential and commercial design clients. A former fashion stylist, Rachel’s passion for fabric, texture and color infuses all her creative work. Rachel is a master of weaving color into the spaces she designs to create energy, warmth and authenticity. There is a reason that clients line up to work with Rachel! Her warmth, enthusiasm and confidence manifest a seamless design experience and make the project fun start to finish.      A true design pro with years of experience, Rachel makes it a point to work with trusted tradesmen, quality craftsmen, skilled artisans, reliable installers as well as local artists to take each design project from concept to completion. Connect with Rachel Moriarty: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupra at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise.   Other Shows Mentioned: #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business   #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours Tue, 28 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business full 707 LuAnn Nigara Today with Rachel Moriarty Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about visibility and authenticity. So many of us are bought into the idea that niching is the right way to go. But when we go to sit down and think about what we do... Today with Rachel Moriarty Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about visibility and authenticity. So many of us are bought into the idea that niching is the right way to go. But when we go to sit down and think about what we do that’s special, we can’t figure it out. For my guest today, Rachel Moriarty, the answer came from tapping into her own existing strengths and experiences. Now, she’s sharing those insights with us! Pick it apart: [8:45] Rachel shares her biggest challenge with visibility and how she managed to overcome it.  [14:40] Rachel and LuAnn discuss how your background and strengths can play into your success as a designer—even if they aren’t related on the surface.  [36:30] Rachel talks about her own challenge with wrestling with herself and how she finally pushed through.  [44:00] LuAnn and Rachel reflect on Rachel’s ability to stand in her own light and bring her authentic self to the table. LuAnn and Rachel Moriarty’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s no competition because everybody knows exactly who they are and stand in that space so strongly.” -Rachel Moriarty   “To me, it’s non-negotiable to have people in my life that know more than I know. It’s as simple as that. Because otherwise, how am I going to know more?” -LuAnn Nigara   “I love these tight relationships that I have with my clients because it allows me to go in deep, which I think is my gift as an introvert.” -Rachel Moriarty More about Rachel Moriarty: Rachel Moriarty is an Award-Winning Designer, #1 Best Selling Author, Style Expert as well as a Color + Pattern-ista! Perhaps most importantly, Rachel is the ultimate colorful character! Those who know her and follow her on social media look forward to seeing her vibrant wardrobe, eclectic jewelry, and her ease with being what she calls ‘extra.’ Rachel’s multi-cultural roots - she is Mexican, Native American and Filipina - are an integral part of her love of diversity in design. Rachel is not afraid of color, texture, and design influences from across the globe. Raised by a Mexican-American feminist mother with a creative side, Rachel’s grandparents hail from Manila, Mexico City, the Arizona border town of Douglas, and California’a agricultural San Joaquin Valley. Rachel embodies and embraces them all as part of what makes her uniquely American and creatively equipped to design any space. Rachel embodies her personal belief that color adds interest and excitement to the world, and, like a chef seasoning a meal, she sprinkles it liberally to add passion and flavor.   Rachel’s iconic designs and unique personal philosophy have been featured in many publications, including Vision Magazine and San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyle, and Rachel has been featured on HGTV and The Design Network. Rachel has partnered with Unique Design Solutions to create her own tile color collection, and maintains an active clientele of both residential and commercial design clients. A former fashion stylist, Rachel’s passion for fabric, texture and color infuses all her creative work. Rachel is a master of weaving color into the spaces she designs to create energy, warmth and authenticity. There is a reason that clients line up to work with Rachel! Her warmth, enthusiasm and confidence manifest a seamless design experience and make the project fun start to finish.      A true design pro with years of experience, Rachel makes it a point to work with trusted tradesmen, quality craftsmen, skilled artisans, reliable installers as well as local artists to take each design project from concept to completion. Connect with Rachel Moriarty: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupra at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise.   Other Shows Mentioned: #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business   #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours Today with Rachel Moriarty

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about visibility and authenticity. So many of us are bought into the idea that niching is the right way to go. But when we go to sit down and think about what we do that’s special, we can’t figure it out. For my guest today, Rachel Moriarty, the answer came from tapping into her own existing strengths and experiences. Now, she’s sharing those insights with us!

Pick it apart:

  • [8:45] Rachel shares her biggest challenge with visibility and how she managed to overcome it. 
  • [14:40] Rachel and LuAnn discuss how your background and strengths can play into your success as a designer—even if they aren’t related on the surface. 
  • [36:30] Rachel talks about her own challenge with wrestling with herself and how she finally pushed through. 
  • [44:00] LuAnn and Rachel reflect on Rachel’s ability to stand in her own light and bring her authentic self to the table.

LuAnn and Rachel Moriarty’s Ah-Ha moments:

“There’s no competition because everybody knows exactly who they are and stand in that space so strongly.” -Rachel Moriarty

 

“To me, it’s non-negotiable to have people in my life that know more than I know. It’s as simple as that. Because otherwise, how am I going to know more?” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I love these tight relationships that I have with my clients because it allows me to go in deep, which I think is my gift as an introvert.” -Rachel Moriarty

More about Rachel Moriarty:

Rachel Moriarty is an Award-Winning Designer, #1 Best Selling Author, Style Expert as well as a Color + Pattern-ista!

Perhaps most importantly, Rachel is the ultimate colorful character! Those who know her and follow her on social media look forward to seeing her vibrant wardrobe, eclectic jewelry, and her ease with being what she calls ‘extra.’ Rachel’s multi-cultural roots - she is Mexican, Native American and Filipina - are an integral part of her love of diversity in design. Rachel is not afraid of color, texture, and design influences from across the globe. Raised by a Mexican-American feminist mother with a creative side, Rachel’s grandparents hail from Manila, Mexico City, the Arizona border town of Douglas, and California’a agricultural San Joaquin Valley. Rachel embodies and embraces them all as part of what makes her uniquely American and creatively equipped to design any space. Rachel embodies her personal belief that color adds interest and excitement to the world, and, like a chef seasoning a meal, she sprinkles it liberally to add passion and flavor.

 

Rachel’s iconic designs and unique personal philosophy have been featured in many publications, including Vision Magazine and San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyle, and Rachel has been featured on HGTV and The Design Network. Rachel has partnered with Unique Design Solutions to create her own tile color collection, and maintains an active clientele of both residential and commercial design clients. A former fashion stylist, Rachel’s passion for fabric, texture and color infuses all her creative work. Rachel is a master of weaving color into the spaces she designs to create energy, warmth and authenticity. There is a reason that clients line up to work with Rachel! Her warmth, enthusiasm and confidence manifest a seamless design experience and make the project fun start to finish.  

 

 A true design pro with years of experience, Rachel makes it a point to work with trusted tradesmen, quality craftsmen, skilled artisans, reliable installers as well as local artists to take each design project from concept to completion.

Connect with Rachel Moriarty:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupra at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

 

#214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business

 

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

]]> 4326 no 706: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Wrede Peterson: Unlocking Your Voice as an Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/706-bethany-wrede-peterson-unlocking-your-voice-as-an-interior-designer Today with Bethany Wrede Peterson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Bethany Wrede Peterson, an interior designer, host of Arrived podcast, and business coach who specializes in helping designers find their unique voice.  Bethany and I are talking today about a topic that isn’t new to the podcast—unlocking your unique voice, your niche, the thing that you do that nobody else does that makes you the obvious, only choice. But Bethany manages to frame it in a way that opened my eyes, despite the fact that I have been having these conversations for the last five years.  Pick it apart: [3:55] Bethany shares the common trait she has seen in interior designers that holds them back from niching.  [9:10] Bethany discusses tips for finding your voice even when it’s not easy to filter down and discover it.  [21:43] Bethany talks about how to overcome the mindset blocks surrounding your voice. [42:11] LuAnn and Bethany discuss how to conduct a post-mortem following a project and turn every failure into a success. LuAnn and Bethany Wrede Peterson’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you think about it from the perspective of what’s not worked versus what has worked...where have you felt burnt out in a client project? That’s a huge indicator that that is not the direction that you want to be taking your niche into.” -Bethany Wrede Peterson   “I think why it’s been troublesome for some of our colleagues to identify their only or their passion, is because they do that first level—review their past clients and see which ones they’re happy with. But happy is not as specific as ‘Which ones could you identify with so well that you could anticipate their needs, that you could identify with so well that you instinctively understood what they would like or want or the way you would service them that would be successful?’ The way you described it was so clear to me.” -LuAnn Nigara “It’s not enough to simply say, ‘sustainable design,’ because we know there are a thousand other designers that can work to that. It’s about how we demonstrate that we are the right person for that client, not only for the broader niche, but with actually relating to that person’s whole life and story.” -LuAnn Nigara   “If you second guess yourself, your talents, your divine right to be doing this, then you’re depriving the rest of us of that talent that you’ve got. If you don’t show up and do it, then somebody doesn’t get it. And you have to think about that because there’s somebody out there that needs what only you can offer.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Bethany Wrede Peterson: Bethany Wrede Peterson is an interior designer turned podcast & brand messaging coach. She helps interior designers and creative entrepreneurs find their Voice to become more profitable, achieve greater meaning, and have more FUN in their work.   Bethany started her self-development podcast, ARRIVED., in 2019 initially to help her then-niche – single men – find their voice at home and in their relationships. After the pandemic hit, Bethany started receiving requests from peers to help them launch their pod, and realized that her own story needed to feature in her coaching. She works with clients one-to-one and is also the creator of 'Find Your Voice', an online course to help creatives rediscover their Why, find their Voice, and launch their pod in 8 short weeks.   Bethany has been featured in The Guardian; Wallpaper*; The Course Method; OnlineCourseTalks.com; I AM CEO; Subkit; and Minnesota AM950 radio. Her podcasts, 'ARRIVED.', and 'ARRIVED...Daily.' have been streamed in 25 countries. Connect with Bethany Wrede Peterson: Website Instagram  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.     Other Shows Mentioned:    # 174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program Fri, 24 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Wrede Peterson: Unlocking Your Voice as an Interior Designer full 706 LuAnn Nigara Today with Bethany Wrede Peterson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Bethany Wrede Peterson, an interior designer, host of Arrived podcast, and business coach who specializes in helping designers find their unique... Today with Bethany Wrede Peterson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Bethany Wrede Peterson, an interior designer, host of Arrived podcast, and business coach who specializes in helping designers find their unique voice.  Bethany and I are talking today about a topic that isn’t new to the podcast—unlocking your unique voice, your niche, the thing that you do that nobody else does that makes you the obvious, only choice. But Bethany manages to frame it in a way that opened my eyes, despite the fact that I have been having these conversations for the last five years.  Pick it apart: [3:55] Bethany shares the common trait she has seen in interior designers that holds them back from niching.  [9:10] Bethany discusses tips for finding your voice even when it’s not easy to filter down and discover it.  [21:43] Bethany talks about how to overcome the mindset blocks surrounding your voice. [42:11] LuAnn and Bethany discuss how to conduct a post-mortem following a project and turn every failure into a success. LuAnn and Bethany Wrede Peterson’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you think about it from the perspective of what’s not worked versus what has worked...where have you felt burnt out in a client project? That’s a huge indicator that that is not the direction that you want to be taking your niche into.” -Bethany Wrede Peterson   “I think why it’s been troublesome for some of our colleagues to identify their only or their passion, is because they do that first level—review their past clients and see which ones they’re happy with. But happy is not as specific as ‘Which ones could you identify with so well that you could anticipate their needs, that you could identify with so well that you instinctively understood what they would like or want or the way you would service them that would be successful?’ The way you described it was so clear to me.” -LuAnn Nigara “It’s not enough to simply say, ‘sustainable design,’ because we know there are a thousand other designers that can work to that. It’s about how we demonstrate that we are the right person for that client, not only for the broader niche, but with actually relating to that person’s whole life and story.” -LuAnn Nigara   “If you second guess yourself, your talents, your divine right to be doing this, then you’re depriving the rest of us of that talent that you’ve got. If you don’t show up and do it, then somebody doesn’t get it. And you have to think about that because there’s somebody out there that needs what only you can offer.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Bethany Wrede Peterson: Bethany Wrede Peterson is an interior designer turned podcast & brand messaging coach. She helps interior designers and creative entrepreneurs find their Voice to become more profitable, achieve greater meaning, and have more FUN in their work.   Bethany started her self-development podcast, ARRIVED., in 2019 initially to help her then-niche – single men – find their voice at home and in their relationships. After the pandemic hit, Bethany started receiving requests from peers to help them launch their pod, and realized that her own story needed to feature in her coaching. She works with clients one-to-one and is also the creator of 'Find Your Voice', an online course to help creatives rediscover their Why, find their Voice, and launch their pod in 8 short weeks.   Bethany has been featured in The Guardian; Wallpaper*; The Course Method; OnlineCourseTalks.com; I AM CEO; Subkit; and Minnesota AM950 radio. Her podcasts, 'ARRIVED.', and 'ARRIVED...Daily.' have been streamed in 25 countries. Connect with Bethany Wrede Peterson: Website Instagram  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.     Other Shows Mentioned:    # 174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program Today with Bethany Wrede Peterson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Bethany Wrede Peterson, an interior designer, host of Arrived podcast, and business coach who specializes in helping designers find their unique voice. 

Bethany and I are talking today about a topic that isn’t new to the podcast—unlocking your unique voice, your niche, the thing that you do that nobody else does that makes you the obvious, only choice. But Bethany manages to frame it in a way that opened my eyes, despite the fact that I have been having these conversations for the last five years. 

Pick it apart:

[3:55] Bethany shares the common trait she has seen in interior designers that holds them back from niching. 

[9:10] Bethany discusses tips for finding your voice even when it’s not easy to filter down and discover it. 

[21:43] Bethany talks about how to overcome the mindset blocks surrounding your voice.

[42:11] LuAnn and Bethany discuss how to conduct a post-mortem following a project and turn every failure into a success.

LuAnn and Bethany Wrede Peterson’s Ah-Ha moments:

“If you think about it from the perspective of what’s not worked versus what has worked...where have you felt burnt out in a client project? That’s a huge indicator that that is not the direction that you want to be taking your niche into.” -Bethany Wrede Peterson

 

“I think why it’s been troublesome for some of our colleagues to identify their only or their passion, is because they do that first level—review their past clients and see which ones they’re happy with. But happy is not as specific as ‘Which ones could you identify with so well that you could anticipate their needs, that you could identify with so well that you instinctively understood what they would like or want or the way you would service them that would be successful?’ The way you described it was so clear to me.” -LuAnn Nigara

“It’s not enough to simply say, ‘sustainable design,’ because we know there are a thousand other designers that can work to that. It’s about how we demonstrate that we are the right person for that client, not only for the broader niche, but with actually relating to that person’s whole life and story.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“If you second guess yourself, your talents, your divine right to be doing this, then you’re depriving the rest of us of that talent that you’ve got. If you don’t show up and do it, then somebody doesn’t get it. And you have to think about that because there’s somebody out there that needs what only you can offer.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Bethany Wrede Peterson:

Bethany Wrede Peterson is an interior designer turned podcast & brand messaging coach. She helps interior designers and creative entrepreneurs find their Voice to become more profitable, achieve greater meaning, and have more FUN in their work.

 

Bethany started her self-development podcast, ARRIVED., in 2019 initially to help her then-niche – single men – find their voice at home and in their relationships. After the pandemic hit, Bethany started receiving requests from peers to help them launch their pod, and realized that her own story needed to feature in her coaching. She works with clients one-to-one and is also the creator of 'Find Your Voice', an online course to help creatives rediscover their Why, find their Voice, and launch their pod in 8 short weeks.

 

Bethany has been featured in The Guardian; Wallpaper*; The Course Method; OnlineCourseTalks.com; I AM CEO; Subkit; and Minnesota AM950 radio. Her podcasts, 'ARRIVED.', and 'ARRIVED...Daily.' have been streamed in 25 countries.

Connect with Bethany Wrede Peterson:

Website

Instagram 

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

 

# 174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

 

#256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

 

#440 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program

]]> 3581 no 705: Jessica Mann-Amato: Visualization Technology for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/705-jessica-mann-amato-visualization-technology-for-your-interior-design-business Today with Jessica Mann-Amato Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jessica Mann-Amato of Mancini Duffy, a New York architectural firm specializing in commercial and hospitality projects shares the innovative design software her firm uses to help clients visualize their project, iterate in real-time, and confidently add their stamp of approval. Pick it apart: [6:18] Jessica walks through her paperless process  [18:45] Jessica shares how they introduce 360 process to a legacy client [22:49] Jessica explains how Covid forced them to develop the firm’s 360 system further [24:49] Jessica explains her company’s R&D department [40:18] Jessica talks about the state of her commercial firm in this semi post-pandemic climate and how her clients are adapting their spaces [52:10] LuAnn talks about how designers can help local businesses set up a Zoom room [53:53] Jessica talk about how to purchase the ToolBelt software LuAnn and Jessica Mann-Amato’s Ah-Ha moments: “This environment allows everyone to visualize what we’re describing.” - Jessica Mann-Amato   “It allows us to be more intentional about when we’re utilizing in-person time versus video time.” - Jessica Mann-Amato More about Jessica Mann-Amato: Jessica Mann-Amato, IIDA, is a natural design leader. With over 20 years of client-focused design experience, she oversees workplace strategy, space planning, and interior design for Mancini’s New York office as a principal and shareholder. She works diligently to bring her colleagues and clients together to achieve a shared vision, infused with a creative edge, that meets—and exceeds—expectations.   Jessica utilizes Mancini’s cutting-edge technology to further the design process and bring each client’s vision to life. She uses the company’s state-of-the-art Design Lab to lead clients through proprietary 360 Design Sessions which immerse them in their future spaces and allow for a truly collaborative and interactive design process, which Jessica has always promoted with her clients.   Jessica cut her teeth by devising beautiful and functional interiors for consumer goods companies, digital media movers and shakers, and boutique financial firms. Her career highlights include design projects for a wide array of clients that met unique business goals, integrated new workplace strategies, and delivered design that has had significant impact on clients’ company culture. She has created spaces for clients such as Indeed, Rent the Runway, McGraw-Hill, Rauxa, Pernod Ricard USA, ALM Media, and Citigroup, among many other innovative companies.   Jessica believes that true design inspiration is achieved with real collaboration within her group and with each client. She readily shares what she knows with the designers of Mancini, making mentoring and professional development a key component in her work.   A graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, before joining Mancini Jessica worked with Spector Group, HLW International LLP, NELSON, Furnstahl & Simon Architects, and Conant Architects. She served as the 2009-2010 International Interior Design Association (IIDA) NY Chapter President. Connect with Jessica Mann-Amato: LinkedIn  Mancini Duffy LinkedIn Twitter  Instagram  Mancini Duffy Facebook  Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupre at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise. Tue, 21 Sep 2021 14:10:12 -0000 Jessica Mann-Amato: Visualization Technology for Your Interior Design Business full 705 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Mann-Amato Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jessica Mann-Amato of Mancini Duffy, a New York architectural firm specializing in commercial and hospitality projects shares the innovative design software her firm uses to help... Today with Jessica Mann-Amato Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jessica Mann-Amato of Mancini Duffy, a New York architectural firm specializing in commercial and hospitality projects shares the innovative design software her firm uses to help clients visualize their project, iterate in real-time, and confidently add their stamp of approval. Pick it apart: [6:18] Jessica walks through her paperless process  [18:45] Jessica shares how they introduce 360 process to a legacy client [22:49] Jessica explains how Covid forced them to develop the firm’s 360 system further [24:49] Jessica explains her company’s R&D department [40:18] Jessica talks about the state of her commercial firm in this semi post-pandemic climate and how her clients are adapting their spaces [52:10] LuAnn talks about how designers can help local businesses set up a Zoom room [53:53] Jessica talk about how to purchase the ToolBelt software LuAnn and Jessica Mann-Amato’s Ah-Ha moments: “This environment allows everyone to visualize what we’re describing.” - Jessica Mann-Amato   “It allows us to be more intentional about when we’re utilizing in-person time versus video time.” - Jessica Mann-Amato More about Jessica Mann-Amato: Jessica Mann-Amato, IIDA, is a natural design leader. With over 20 years of client-focused design experience, she oversees workplace strategy, space planning, and interior design for Mancini’s New York office as a principal and shareholder. She works diligently to bring her colleagues and clients together to achieve a shared vision, infused with a creative edge, that meets—and exceeds—expectations.   Jessica utilizes Mancini’s cutting-edge technology to further the design process and bring each client’s vision to life. She uses the company’s state-of-the-art Design Lab to lead clients through proprietary 360 Design Sessions which immerse them in their future spaces and allow for a truly collaborative and interactive design process, which Jessica has always promoted with her clients.   Jessica cut her teeth by devising beautiful and functional interiors for consumer goods companies, digital media movers and shakers, and boutique financial firms. Her career highlights include design projects for a wide array of clients that met unique business goals, integrated new workplace strategies, and delivered design that has had significant impact on clients’ company culture. She has created spaces for clients such as Indeed, Rent the Runway, McGraw-Hill, Rauxa, Pernod Ricard USA, ALM Media, and Citigroup, among many other innovative companies.   Jessica believes that true design inspiration is achieved with real collaboration within her group and with each client. She readily shares what she knows with the designers of Mancini, making mentoring and professional development a key component in her work.   A graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, before joining Mancini Jessica worked with Spector Group, HLW International LLP, NELSON, Furnstahl & Simon Architects, and Conant Architects. She served as the 2009-2010 International Interior Design Association (IIDA) NY Chapter President. Connect with Jessica Mann-Amato: LinkedIn  Mancini Duffy LinkedIn Twitter  Instagram  Mancini Duffy Facebook  Website What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupre at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise. Today with Jessica Mann-Amato

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Jessica Mann-Amato of Mancini Duffy, a New York architectural firm specializing in commercial and hospitality projects shares the innovative design software her firm uses to help clients visualize their project, iterate in real-time, and confidently add their stamp of approval.

Pick it apart:

  • [6:18] Jessica walks through her paperless process 

    [18:45] Jessica shares how they introduce 360 process to a legacy client

    [22:49] Jessica explains how Covid forced them to develop the firm’s 360 system further

    [24:49] Jessica explains her company’s R&D department

    [40:18] Jessica talks about the state of her commercial firm in this semi post-pandemic climate and how her clients are adapting their spaces

    [52:10] LuAnn talks about how designers can help local businesses set up a Zoom room

    [53:53] Jessica talk about how to purchase the ToolBelt software

LuAnn and Jessica Mann-Amato’s Ah-Ha moments:

“This environment allows everyone to visualize what we’re describing.” - Jessica Mann-Amato

 

“It allows us to be more intentional about when we’re utilizing in-person time versus video time.” - Jessica Mann-Amato

More about Jessica Mann-Amato:

Jessica Mann-Amato, IIDA, is a natural design leader. With over 20 years of client-focused design experience, she oversees workplace strategy, space planning, and interior design for Mancini’s New York office as a principal and shareholder. She works diligently to bring her colleagues and clients together to achieve a shared vision, infused with a creative edge, that meets—and exceeds—expectations.

 

Jessica utilizes Mancini’s cutting-edge technology to further the design process and bring each client’s vision to life. She uses the company’s state-of-the-art Design Lab to lead clients through proprietary 360 Design Sessions which immerse them in their future spaces and allow for a truly collaborative and interactive design process, which Jessica has always promoted with her clients.

 

Jessica cut her teeth by devising beautiful and functional interiors for consumer goods companies, digital media movers and shakers, and boutique financial firms. Her career highlights include design projects for a wide array of clients that met unique business goals, integrated new workplace strategies, and delivered design that has had significant impact on clients’ company culture. She has created spaces for clients such as Indeed, Rent the Runway, McGraw-Hill, Rauxa, Pernod Ricard USA, ALM Media, and Citigroup, among many other innovative companies.

 

Jessica believes that true design inspiration is achieved with real collaboration within her group and with each client. She readily shares what she knows with the designers of Mancini, making mentoring and professional development a key component in her work.

 

A graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, before joining Mancini Jessica worked with Spector Group, HLW International LLP, NELSON, Furnstahl & Simon Architects, and Conant Architects. She served as the 2009-2010 International Interior Design Association (IIDA) NY Chapter President.

Connect with Jessica Mann-Amato:

LinkedIn 

Mancini Duffy LinkedIn

Twitter 

Instagram 

Mancini Duffy Facebook 

Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Meet Revel Wood’s John Dupre at High Point at our Meet and Greet on Thursday oct 14, 2021 or at the PTF Tour on Friday Oct 15th 2021 check the show notes for links to both of these and check the show notes for the link to revelwoods.com/pro-account to learn more about how you can educate yourself on flooring, confidently specify the right product for your project, and profit from your expertise.

]]> 3847 no 704: Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/704-power-talk-friday-george-oliphant-george-to-the-rescue Today with George Oliphant: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! George Oliphant from NBC’s George to the Rescue shares how the show (now in the 12th season) came about, how he chooses designers to help him, and why relationships matter. New Jersey designer, Campbell Minister, was chosen as the featured designer (who then chose Window Works to supply the window treatments!). Pick it apart: [14:43] George shares how he got the George to the Rescue opportunity   [38:42] LuAnn asks George how a designer can put themselves up to be a designer on the show   [45:33] LuAnn explains the connection between relationships and opportunities LuAnn and George Oliphant’s Ah-Ha moments: “It all comes down to relationships. Who have you taken the time to know? Who have you taken the time to help along the way?” - LuAnn   “I wanted to be part of the helping.” - George Oliphant   “People really like to help other people - and if they can, they will.” - George Oliphant More About George Oliphant: George Oliphant is the popular Emmy Award-winning host of NBC's George to the Rescue, a weekly national home improvement show. For 12 seasons, George and his team of contractors and interior designers have rescued deserving homeowners and community centers.   George Oliphant started out his career as a touring children's theatre actor. He quickly transitioned to become the host of Nickelodeon's Nick GaS. From then on, he worked as a VJ for various MTV shows. After working as a VJ, he landed jobs for NBC as a host, one of them being, Open House to the Rescue, which then turned to George to the Rescue. The show began in New York and is now a part of all NBC stations across the map. GTTR recently won a second consecutive National Daytime Emmy for “Outstanding Lifestyle Series”. You can stream past episodes at Youtube.com/George2Rescue and on Peacock. Connect with George Oliphant: Website George to the Rescue Instagram George Oliphant Instagram   Facebook  YouTube   Connect with Campbell Minister: Website Pinterest Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 17 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: George Oliphant: George to the Rescue full 704 LuAnn Nigara Today with George Oliphant: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! George Oliphant from NBC’s George to the Rescue shares how the show (now in the 12th season) came about, how he chooses designers to help him, and why... Today with George Oliphant: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! George Oliphant from NBC’s George to the Rescue shares how the show (now in the 12th season) came about, how he chooses designers to help him, and why relationships matter. New Jersey designer, Campbell Minister, was chosen as the featured designer (who then chose Window Works to supply the window treatments!). Pick it apart: [14:43] George shares how he got the George to the Rescue opportunity   [38:42] LuAnn asks George how a designer can put themselves up to be a designer on the show   [45:33] LuAnn explains the connection between relationships and opportunities LuAnn and George Oliphant’s Ah-Ha moments: “It all comes down to relationships. Who have you taken the time to know? Who have you taken the time to help along the way?” - LuAnn   “I wanted to be part of the helping.” - George Oliphant   “People really like to help other people - and if they can, they will.” - George Oliphant More About George Oliphant: George Oliphant is the popular Emmy Award-winning host of NBC's George to the Rescue, a weekly national home improvement show. For 12 seasons, George and his team of contractors and interior designers have rescued deserving homeowners and community centers.   George Oliphant started out his career as a touring children's theatre actor. He quickly transitioned to become the host of Nickelodeon's Nick GaS. From then on, he worked as a VJ for various MTV shows. After working as a VJ, he landed jobs for NBC as a host, one of them being, Open House to the Rescue, which then turned to George to the Rescue. The show began in New York and is now a part of all NBC stations across the map. GTTR recently won a second consecutive National Daytime Emmy for “Outstanding Lifestyle Series”. You can stream past episodes at Youtube.com/George2Rescue and on Peacock. Connect with George Oliphant: Website George to the Rescue Instagram George Oliphant Instagram   Facebook  YouTube   Connect with Campbell Minister: Website Pinterest Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today with George Oliphant:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! George Oliphant from NBC’s George to the Rescue shares how the show (now in the 12th season) came about, how he chooses designers to help him, and why relationships matter. New Jersey designer, Campbell Minister, was chosen as the featured designer (who then chose Window Works to supply the window treatments!).

Pick it apart:

[14:43] George shares how he got the George to the Rescue opportunity

 

[38:42] LuAnn asks George how a designer can put themselves up to be a designer on the show

 

[45:33] LuAnn explains the connection between relationships and opportunities

LuAnn and George Oliphant’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It all comes down to relationships. Who have you taken the time to know? Who have you taken the time to help along the way?” - LuAnn

 

“I wanted to be part of the helping.” - George Oliphant

 

“People really like to help other people - and if they can, they will.” - George Oliphant

More About George Oliphant:

George Oliphant is the popular Emmy Award-winning host of NBC's George to the Rescue, a weekly national home improvement show. For 12 seasons, George and his team of contractors and interior designers have rescued deserving homeowners and community centers.  

George Oliphant started out his career as a touring children's theatre actor. He quickly transitioned to become the host of Nickelodeon's Nick GaS. From then on, he worked as a VJ for various MTV shows. After working as a VJ, he landed jobs for NBC as a host, one of them being, Open House to the Rescue, which then turned to George to the Rescue. The show began in New York and is now a part of all NBC stations across the map. GTTR recently won a second consecutive National Daytime Emmy for “Outstanding Lifestyle Series”. You can stream past episodes at Youtube.com/George2Rescue and on Peacock.

Connect with George Oliphant:

Website

George to the Rescue Instagram

George Oliphant Instagram  

Facebook 

YouTube

 

Connect with Campbell Minister:

Website

Pinterest

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 3405 no 703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/703-leyden-lewis-the-road-to-ad100-and-elle-decor-top-125-requires-innovation-and-authentic-creativity Today with Leyden Lewis Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about the business side of design—from niching to raising your rates to processes and systems. But today, we’re talking about the root of design—creativity. Bringing creativity and innovation to your design not only establishes you as a designer, it also levels up the value you bring to your clients. My guest today, Leyden Lewis, is certainly an innovator and a visionary. He’s sharing his insights into designing from the heart, creating irreplicable work, and drawing inspiration from the world.   Pick it apart: [3:47] LuAnn and Leyden reminisce on their friendship and working relationship.  [18:00] Leyden highlights what he has learned in hindsight from his career.  [34:15] LuAnn and Leyden discuss how creativity and innovation play such a vital role in design.  [42:45] Leyden shares how finding the Black Artists + Designers Guild reignited his career.  [55:08] Leyden gives his input on the shift in opportunities for designers of Color.   LuAnn and Leyden Lewis’s Ah-Ha moments: “Be aware that your own maturation, your own age, your own marketing and financial literacy has to tie in. If anything, I learned everything that I know about my business from a series of amazing exposure and failures. Everyone’s story is the same in that regard. We all make errors or misjudgments.” -Leyden Lewis   “In five and a half years doing this business, almost every successful designer who has been on the show agrees, it almost always comes down to relationships. It’s the relationships you make, it’s the way you care for them. The internet is going to be there, but what I want to say to the younger designers is don’t negate the relationships.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I’m an outlier. I try to push myself. I bring the fierceness and the robustness and the pushing of the design envelope to my own work. Of course, I have done simple designs for clients who do not want to be pushed, but wherever there’s an opportunity, I push the envelope. Because design for me is an absolutely organic concept. I think it should be evolving, I think it should reflect the times that we’re in, the conditions, the people, the cultural shifts. To me, design is not static.” -Leyden Lewis More about Leyden Lewis: Leyden Lewis Design Studio is a Brooklyn-based firm that over the last thirty years has created poetic and culturally sensitive spaces and furniture in the United States and around the world.  Founder and Creative Director Leyden Lewis is a trained architect  with a background which encompasses the culturally rich Caribbean heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, urban sophistication, and classical European Modernism. Leyden Lewis Design Studio has been included in the Elle Decor’s A-List top 125 designers in the world in 2019 and 2020,  as well as features in Architectural Digest by Carly Olson,  New York Magazine - The Cut by Wendy Goodman, a TV feature on Open House TV on NBC, House Beautiful by Hadley Keller.  As a fine artist, his work has been exhibited widely and has received much acclaim, in 2004, Leyden Lewis was invited by the curator Thelma Golden to participate in the Harlemworld: Metropolis and Metaphor show at the Studio Museum in Harlem. Critic Herbert Muschamp referred to Lewis's work as "the poetic heart" of the exhibition. When it is desirable, Leyden Lewis Design Studio assists and consults with building art collections for clients. Connect with Leyden Lewis: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest Tue, 14 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity full 703 LuAnn Nigara Today with Leyden Lewis Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about the business side of design—from niching to raising your rates to processes and systems. But today, we’re talking about the root of design—creativity. Bringing... Today with Leyden Lewis Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about the business side of design—from niching to raising your rates to processes and systems. But today, we’re talking about the root of design—creativity. Bringing creativity and innovation to your design not only establishes you as a designer, it also levels up the value you bring to your clients. My guest today, Leyden Lewis, is certainly an innovator and a visionary. He’s sharing his insights into designing from the heart, creating irreplicable work, and drawing inspiration from the world.   Pick it apart: [3:47] LuAnn and Leyden reminisce on their friendship and working relationship.  [18:00] Leyden highlights what he has learned in hindsight from his career.  [34:15] LuAnn and Leyden discuss how creativity and innovation play such a vital role in design.  [42:45] Leyden shares how finding the Black Artists + Designers Guild reignited his career.  [55:08] Leyden gives his input on the shift in opportunities for designers of Color.   LuAnn and Leyden Lewis’s Ah-Ha moments: “Be aware that your own maturation, your own age, your own marketing and financial literacy has to tie in. If anything, I learned everything that I know about my business from a series of amazing exposure and failures. Everyone’s story is the same in that regard. We all make errors or misjudgments.” -Leyden Lewis   “In five and a half years doing this business, almost every successful designer who has been on the show agrees, it almost always comes down to relationships. It’s the relationships you make, it’s the way you care for them. The internet is going to be there, but what I want to say to the younger designers is don’t negate the relationships.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I’m an outlier. I try to push myself. I bring the fierceness and the robustness and the pushing of the design envelope to my own work. Of course, I have done simple designs for clients who do not want to be pushed, but wherever there’s an opportunity, I push the envelope. Because design for me is an absolutely organic concept. I think it should be evolving, I think it should reflect the times that we’re in, the conditions, the people, the cultural shifts. To me, design is not static.” -Leyden Lewis More about Leyden Lewis: Leyden Lewis Design Studio is a Brooklyn-based firm that over the last thirty years has created poetic and culturally sensitive spaces and furniture in the United States and around the world.  Founder and Creative Director Leyden Lewis is a trained architect  with a background which encompasses the culturally rich Caribbean heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, urban sophistication, and classical European Modernism. Leyden Lewis Design Studio has been included in the Elle Decor’s A-List top 125 designers in the world in 2019 and 2020,  as well as features in Architectural Digest by Carly Olson,  New York Magazine - The Cut by Wendy Goodman, a TV feature on Open House TV on NBC, House Beautiful by Hadley Keller.  As a fine artist, his work has been exhibited widely and has received much acclaim, in 2004, Leyden Lewis was invited by the curator Thelma Golden to participate in the Harlemworld: Metropolis and Metaphor show at the Studio Museum in Harlem. Critic Herbert Muschamp referred to Lewis's work as "the poetic heart" of the exhibition. When it is desirable, Leyden Lewis Design Studio assists and consults with building art collections for clients. Connect with Leyden Lewis: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest Today with Leyden Lewis

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about the business side of design—from niching to raising your rates to processes and systems. But today, we’re talking about the root of design—creativity. Bringing creativity and innovation to your design not only establishes you as a designer, it also levels up the value you bring to your clients. My guest today, Leyden Lewis, is certainly an innovator and a visionary. He’s sharing his insights into designing from the heart, creating irreplicable work, and drawing inspiration from the world.  

Pick it apart:

  • [3:47] LuAnn and Leyden reminisce on their friendship and working relationship. 
  • [18:00] Leyden highlights what he has learned in hindsight from his career. 
  • [34:15] LuAnn and Leyden discuss how creativity and innovation play such a vital role in design. 
  • [42:45] Leyden shares how finding the Black Artists + Designers Guild reignited his career. 
  • [55:08] Leyden gives his input on the shift in opportunities for designers of Color.
  •  

LuAnn and Leyden Lewis’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Be aware that your own maturation, your own age, your own marketing and financial literacy has to tie in. If anything, I learned everything that I know about my business from a series of amazing exposure and failures. Everyone’s story is the same in that regard. We all make errors or misjudgments.” -Leyden Lewis

 

“In five and a half years doing this business, almost every successful designer who has been on the show agrees, it almost always comes down to relationships. It’s the relationships you make, it’s the way you care for them. The internet is going to be there, but what I want to say to the younger designers is don’t negate the relationships.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I’m an outlier. I try to push myself. I bring the fierceness and the robustness and the pushing of the design envelope to my own work. Of course, I have done simple designs for clients who do not want to be pushed, but wherever there’s an opportunity, I push the envelope. Because design for me is an absolutely organic concept. I think it should be evolving, I think it should reflect the times that we’re in, the conditions, the people, the cultural shifts. To me, design is not static.” -Leyden Lewis

More about Leyden Lewis:

Leyden Lewis Design Studio is a Brooklyn-based firm that over the last thirty years has created poetic and culturally sensitive spaces and furniture in the United States and around the world. 

Founder and Creative Director Leyden Lewis is a trained architect  with a background which encompasses the culturally rich Caribbean heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, urban sophistication, and classical European Modernism. Leyden Lewis Design Studio has been included in the Elle Decor’s A-List top 125 designers in the world in 2019 and 2020,  as well as features in Architectural Digest by Carly Olson,  New York Magazine - The Cut by Wendy Goodman, a TV feature on Open House TV on NBC, House Beautiful by Hadley Keller. 

As a fine artist, his work has been exhibited widely and has received much acclaim, in 2004, Leyden Lewis was invited by the curator Thelma Golden to participate in the Harlemworld: Metropolis and Metaphor show at the Studio Museum in Harlem. Critic Herbert Muschamp referred to Lewis's work as "the poetic heart" of the exhibition. When it is desirable, Leyden Lewis Design Studio assists and consults with building art collections for clients.

Connect with Leyden Lewis:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

]]> 4436 no 702: Window Treatment Friday: How to Get & Stay Organized in Your Window Treatment Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/703-window-treatment-friday-how-to-get-stay-organized-in-your-window-treatment-business Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. is back for Window Treatment Friday and this time we’re talking digitizing your systems. Why go digital? Go paperless to take back your time and alleviate that frustrating back and forth with your vendors and installers. Dread the client making a change to the estimate? With Vita’s digital system, you’ll fret no more! Pick It Apart:  [10:37] Vita shares what she’s hearing is the biggest struggle of window treatment pros   [12:25] Vita describes a digital time-saving solution for repetitive processes   [17:26] Vita shares the second step to automating your backend systems   [20:19] Vita shares the third iteration the original estimate receives - becoming a PO for the vendor   [21:20] Vita shares how the original estimate is turned into notes for the installer   [28:29] Vita advises listeners how to think about a big change   [37:09] Vita tells why posting your documents to the cloud will simplify your life   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “If you are using pen and paper and a calculator to figure out the yardage, that has to stop!” - Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 10 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: How to Get & Stay Organized in Your Window Treatment Business full 702 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. is back for Window Treatment Friday and this time we’re talking digitizing your systems. Why go digital? Go paperless to take back your time and alleviate... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. is back for Window Treatment Friday and this time we’re talking digitizing your systems. Why go digital? Go paperless to take back your time and alleviate that frustrating back and forth with your vendors and installers. Dread the client making a change to the estimate? With Vita’s digital system, you’ll fret no more! Pick It Apart:  [10:37] Vita shares what she’s hearing is the biggest struggle of window treatment pros   [12:25] Vita describes a digital time-saving solution for repetitive processes   [17:26] Vita shares the second step to automating your backend systems   [20:19] Vita shares the third iteration the original estimate receives - becoming a PO for the vendor   [21:20] Vita shares how the original estimate is turned into notes for the installer   [28:29] Vita advises listeners how to think about a big change   [37:09] Vita tells why posting your documents to the cloud will simplify your life   Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “If you are using pen and paper and a calculator to figure out the yardage, that has to stop!” - Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Vita Vygovska

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Vita Vygovska of Vitalia Inc. is back for Window Treatment Friday and this time we’re talking digitizing your systems. Why go digital? Go paperless to take back your time and alleviate that frustrating back and forth with your vendors and installers. Dread the client making a change to the estimate? With Vita’s digital system, you’ll fret no more!

Pick It Apart: 

[10:37] Vita shares what she’s hearing is the biggest struggle of window treatment pros

 

[12:25] Vita describes a digital time-saving solution for repetitive processes

 

[17:26] Vita shares the second step to automating your backend systems

 

[20:19] Vita shares the third iteration the original estimate receives - becoming a PO for the vendor

 

[21:20] Vita shares how the original estimate is turned into notes for the installer

 

[28:29] Vita advises listeners how to think about a big change

 

[37:09] Vita tells why posting your documents to the cloud will simplify your life

 

Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska:

“If you are using pen and paper and a calculator to figure out the yardage, that has to stop!” - Vita Vygovska

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

Connect with Vita Vygovska:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3446 no 701: Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/701-kristen-rivoli-new-brand-new-year-how-rebranding-can-work-for-interior-designers Today with Kristen Rivoli Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in expanding their business, whether that involves bringing a product to the market, tapping into a new niche, or building up passive income. My guest today, Kristen Rivoli, brings interesting insight into this idea. She recently rebranded and added a passive income stream to her business, built on selling curated designs to those who love the idea of design but don’t have the budget for it. She’s sharing her insights with us in today’s episode! Pick it apart: [2:14] LuAnn and Kristen discuss the changes to the design world post-pandemic and how the industry has shifted over time.  [14:41] Kristen discusses the importance of data, organization, and processes.  [21:00] Kristen shares her new passive revenue stream and how she started it.  [30:23] Kristen highlights how she branded her passive income stream without taking away from her luxury design brand.  [1:01:07] Kristen emphasizes how she leaned on experts to help her launch the expansion of her business. LuAnn and Kristen Rivoli’s Ah-Ha moments: “The best advice I can give to my clients right now is, we’re going to move forward with the design, but we’re all just going to have to be a little more patient. Things are a little more upside down today. It’s just our reality of today.” -Kristen Rivoli   “Give all sides of the design world a try. Try it on and see if it works.” -Kristen Rivoli   “It is a challenge. Many designers have talked about the challenge of offering a different ladder of services that is different than their bread and butter or passion.” -LuAnn Nigara   “There are lots of potential clients who are not your client today, but they will be in five or eight or ten years. If you can offer a service to them that respects where they are now...that’s what you’re doing. You’re saying I know that you want something beautiful and you want someone to help you but you’re not quite ready for my full service, so let’s deliver something to you, let’s get you in the Kristen family, and in ten years when you’re ready, you’re going to think of me first.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kristen Rivoli: Kristen Rivoli Interior Design, founded in 2009, is built upon my extensive experience designing luxury residential and large-scale commercial projects. With an expertise in new builds and gut renovations, I design premium homes customized to your tastes and needs. My designs have been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, New England Home, Boston Common, Domino, Boston Globe Magazine, and HGTV. A native of western New York and graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I live with my husband, two sons, and dog just outside of Boston. Connect with Kristen Rivoli: Website Rooms by Rivoli Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the best place for you to manage all the details of your design projects. From time tracking to invoicing and receiving payments, even communication between you, your trades and your client. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness to get started today.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #319 Power Talk Friday: Kristan McLaughlin – Your Local Design Center As A Resource for Your Interior Design Projects   #10 Denise McGaha – Deadline Driven Design Tue, 07 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers full 701 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kristen Rivoli Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in expanding their business, whether that involves bringing a product to the market, tapping into a new niche, or building up passive income. My guest today,... Today with Kristen Rivoli Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in expanding their business, whether that involves bringing a product to the market, tapping into a new niche, or building up passive income. My guest today, Kristen Rivoli, brings interesting insight into this idea. She recently rebranded and added a passive income stream to her business, built on selling curated designs to those who love the idea of design but don’t have the budget for it. She’s sharing her insights with us in today’s episode! Pick it apart: [2:14] LuAnn and Kristen discuss the changes to the design world post-pandemic and how the industry has shifted over time.  [14:41] Kristen discusses the importance of data, organization, and processes.  [21:00] Kristen shares her new passive revenue stream and how she started it.  [30:23] Kristen highlights how she branded her passive income stream without taking away from her luxury design brand.  [1:01:07] Kristen emphasizes how she leaned on experts to help her launch the expansion of her business. LuAnn and Kristen Rivoli’s Ah-Ha moments: “The best advice I can give to my clients right now is, we’re going to move forward with the design, but we’re all just going to have to be a little more patient. Things are a little more upside down today. It’s just our reality of today.” -Kristen Rivoli   “Give all sides of the design world a try. Try it on and see if it works.” -Kristen Rivoli   “It is a challenge. Many designers have talked about the challenge of offering a different ladder of services that is different than their bread and butter or passion.” -LuAnn Nigara   “There are lots of potential clients who are not your client today, but they will be in five or eight or ten years. If you can offer a service to them that respects where they are now...that’s what you’re doing. You’re saying I know that you want something beautiful and you want someone to help you but you’re not quite ready for my full service, so let’s deliver something to you, let’s get you in the Kristen family, and in ten years when you’re ready, you’re going to think of me first.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Kristen Rivoli: Kristen Rivoli Interior Design, founded in 2009, is built upon my extensive experience designing luxury residential and large-scale commercial projects. With an expertise in new builds and gut renovations, I design premium homes customized to your tastes and needs. My designs have been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, New England Home, Boston Common, Domino, Boston Globe Magazine, and HGTV. A native of western New York and graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I live with my husband, two sons, and dog just outside of Boston. Connect with Kristen Rivoli: Website Rooms by Rivoli Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the best place for you to manage all the details of your design projects. From time tracking to invoicing and receiving payments, even communication between you, your trades and your client. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness to get started today.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #319 Power Talk Friday: Kristan McLaughlin – Your Local Design Center As A Resource for Your Interior Design Projects   #10 Denise McGaha – Deadline Driven Design Today with Kristen Rivoli

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Many designers are interested in expanding their business, whether that involves bringing a product to the market, tapping into a new niche, or building up passive income. My guest today, Kristen Rivoli, brings interesting insight into this idea. She recently rebranded and added a passive income stream to her business, built on selling curated designs to those who love the idea of design but don’t have the budget for it. She’s sharing her insights with us in today’s episode!

Pick it apart:

  • [2:14] LuAnn and Kristen discuss the changes to the design world post-pandemic and how the industry has shifted over time. 
  • [14:41] Kristen discusses the importance of data, organization, and processes. 
  • [21:00] Kristen shares her new passive revenue stream and how she started it. 
  • [30:23] Kristen highlights how she branded her passive income stream without taking away from her luxury design brand. 
  • [1:01:07] Kristen emphasizes how she leaned on experts to help her launch the expansion of her business.

LuAnn and Kristen Rivoli’s Ah-Ha moments:

“The best advice I can give to my clients right now is, we’re going to move forward with the design, but we’re all just going to have to be a little more patient. Things are a little more upside down today. It’s just our reality of today.” -Kristen Rivoli

 

“Give all sides of the design world a try. Try it on and see if it works.” -Kristen Rivoli

 

“It is a challenge. Many designers have talked about the challenge of offering a different ladder of services that is different than their bread and butter or passion.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“There are lots of potential clients who are not your client today, but they will be in five or eight or ten years. If you can offer a service to them that respects where they are now...that’s what you’re doing. You’re saying I know that you want something beautiful and you want someone to help you but you’re not quite ready for my full service, so let’s deliver something to you, let’s get you in the Kristen family, and in ten years when you’re ready, you’re going to think of me first.” -LuAnn Nigara

More about Kristen Rivoli:

Kristen Rivoli Interior Design, founded in 2009, is built upon my extensive experience designing luxury residential and large-scale commercial projects. With an expertise in new builds and gut renovations, I design premium homes customized to your tastes and needs. My designs have been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, New England Home, Boston Common, Domino, Boston Globe Magazine, and HGTV. A native of western New York and graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I live with my husband, two sons, and dog just outside of Boston.

Connect with Kristen Rivoli:

Website

Rooms by Rivoli

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is the best place for you to manage all the details of your design projects. From time tracking to invoicing and receiving payments, even communication between you, your trades and your client. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness to get started today.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#319 Power Talk Friday: Kristan McLaughlin – Your Local Design Center As A Resource for Your Interior Design Projects

 

#10 Denise McGaha – Deadline Driven Design

]]> 4739 no 700: Power Talk Friday: Mickie Kennedy: Increasing Visibility & Credibility Using Press Releases http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/700-mickie-kennedy-increasing-visibility-credibility-using-press-releases Today with Mickie Kennedy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For Power Talk Friday, small business PR pro Mickie Kennedy joins us to share a unique angle we can use to help get the attention of publications. Learn how to reverse engineer an effective press release that starts with ditching everything we know about design, allows us to gather feedback from consumers, and positions us as a thought leader in the industry. Pick it apart: [2:38] Mickie talks about why focusing on PR strategy matters [8:03] LuAnn summarizes how HARO and proactive PR differs [16:50] LuAnn and Mickie talk about a PR strategy schedule  [22:52] Mickie shares how to do “newsjacking” properly [27:50] Mickie suggests his take on the suggested number of survey respondents [32:08] Mickie offers his opinion about why PR helps your business LuAnn and Mickie Kennedy’s Ah-Ha moments: “Having those “as featured on” sections on your website convey expertise and is an implied endorsement.” - Mickie Kennedy More About Mickie Kennedy: Mickie Kennedy is the Founder and President of eReleases, the small business leader for press release distribution, now celebrating 22 years in business. He is an expert at helping small businesses increase their visibility and credibility and he’s here today to share some valuable insights. Connect with Mickie Kennedy: Website  LinkedIn   Facebook  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 03 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Mickie Kennedy: Increasing Visibility & Credibility Using Press Releases full 700 LuAnn Nigara Today with Mickie Kennedy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For Power Talk Friday, small business PR pro Mickie Kennedy joins us to share a unique angle we can use to help get the attention of publications. Learn how to reverse engineer an... Today with Mickie Kennedy: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For Power Talk Friday, small business PR pro Mickie Kennedy joins us to share a unique angle we can use to help get the attention of publications. Learn how to reverse engineer an effective press release that starts with ditching everything we know about design, allows us to gather feedback from consumers, and positions us as a thought leader in the industry. Pick it apart: [2:38] Mickie talks about why focusing on PR strategy matters [8:03] LuAnn summarizes how HARO and proactive PR differs [16:50] LuAnn and Mickie talk about a PR strategy schedule  [22:52] Mickie shares how to do “newsjacking” properly [27:50] Mickie suggests his take on the suggested number of survey respondents [32:08] Mickie offers his opinion about why PR helps your business LuAnn and Mickie Kennedy’s Ah-Ha moments: “Having those “as featured on” sections on your website convey expertise and is an implied endorsement.” - Mickie Kennedy More About Mickie Kennedy: Mickie Kennedy is the Founder and President of eReleases, the small business leader for press release distribution, now celebrating 22 years in business. He is an expert at helping small businesses increase their visibility and credibility and he’s here today to share some valuable insights. Connect with Mickie Kennedy: Website  LinkedIn   Facebook  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Today with Mickie Kennedy:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For Power Talk Friday, small business PR pro Mickie Kennedy joins us to share a unique angle we can use to help get the attention of publications. Learn how to reverse engineer an effective press release that starts with ditching everything we know about design, allows us to gather feedback from consumers, and positions us as a thought leader in the industry.

Pick it apart:

  • [2:38] Mickie talks about why focusing on PR strategy matters

    [8:03] LuAnn summarizes how HARO and proactive PR differs

    [16:50] LuAnn and Mickie talk about a PR strategy schedule 

    [22:52] Mickie shares how to do “newsjacking” properly

    [27:50] Mickie suggests his take on the suggested number of survey respondents

    [32:08] Mickie offers his opinion about why PR helps your business

LuAnn and Mickie Kennedy’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Having those “as featured on” sections on your website convey expertise and is an implied endorsement.” - Mickie Kennedy

More About Mickie Kennedy:

Mickie Kennedy is the Founder and President of eReleases, the small business leader for press release distribution, now celebrating 22 years in business. He is an expert at helping small businesses increase their visibility and credibility and he’s here today to share some valuable insights.

Connect with Mickie Kennedy:

Website 

LinkedIn  

Facebook 

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 3424 no 699: Lane McNab: Broaden Your Interior Design Business with a Furniture Line http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/699-lane-mcnab-broaden-your-interior-design-business-with-a-furniture-line Today with Lane McNab: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by Lane McNab. Lane runs a successful interior design business, Lane McNab Interiors, but, like so many of you, she found herself wanting to diversify. That desire eventually led to the birth of Guild by LMI, Lane’s furniture line.  Starting a furniture line, or adding any facet of the business, takes a lot of work. Today, Lane is sharing a spotlight on the challenges she faced and how she overcame them along the way. Pick it apart: [1:41] Lane shares what drove her to start her line and how her core values guided her in her endeavor.  [20:08] Lane discusses how she navigated production for her line, and how that has changed as the line has started to thrive.  [27:45] Lane details how to balance a commitment to sustainability and high-quality.  [32:02] Lane shares insights into the process of working in showrooms and the lessons she had to learn as she navigated that world.  [48:27] LuAnn and Lane discuss the nitty-gritty details of what financial impact went into the creation of the line. LuAnn and Lane McNab’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to determine along the way where you’re going to make a compromise, because you can’t make everyone happy all the time. So you have to determine what is the foundation of what you’re trying to do, and then that can inform those decisions as you’re trying to make them. There are hundreds of decisions that go into developing something like a furniture line.” -Lane McNab   “You know what I love about that, is it’s so typical of any entrepreneur’s journey, but of course to a designer’s journey. I can imagine that if you analyzed the projects you’ve done and the way you priced them twelve years ago, you’d probably say the same thing: ‘in the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was going to get another client or if the phone was ever going to ring again, so I was pricing projects at a lower rate. But I eventually understood that my value was worth more.’” -LuAnn Nigara   “Once I know what I’m going to do, and that my risk tolerance is ok with it, I’m just going to do it. I’m not going to hit a wall of ‘oh it’s too hard or too expensive.’ You just get to the next fork in the road and figure out how to make it work.” -Lane McNab More about Lane McNab: A Southern transplant, Lane grew up in Tallahassee, FL and completed undergraduate studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. Soon after she moved to the West Coast where she attended the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Graduating with advanced degrees in vocal performance, she pursued her music career spending several years as a highly-acclaimed operatic soprano in leading roles throughout the Bay Area. After years of extensive travel and studies abroad, Lane left opera singing to manage the demands of a growing family. When she returned to  the working world, she focused on her other artistic passion: designing interiors. Before founding Lane McNab Interiors in 2012, she apprenticed with a local design and construction firm as a designer and project manager which gave her an invaluable hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of the design and construction process.   A continuously curious learner with a passion for beauty, uniqueness, detail, and quality Lane has created a firm with a team of like-minded professionals giving her a devoted clientele and close relationships with vendors and tradespeople throughout the Bay Area. Her designs have been featured in numerous publications and tastemaker sites. When not passionately pursuing design, Lane spends her free time with her three children and husband in their 115 year old house in Berkeley, CA. Connect with Barry Lantz: Website Instagram   Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet’s commitment to innovation and their ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!     Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #205 Lane McNab: How Interior Designers and Contractors Work Together   #540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   #73 Kim Kuhteubl: Understand the Value of Your Creativity and How to Find Your True Tribe   #670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. Tue, 31 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Lane McNab: Broaden Your Interior Design Business with a Furniture Line full 699 LuAnn Nigara Today with Lane McNab: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by Lane McNab. Lane runs a successful interior design business, Lane McNab Interiors, but, like so many of you, she found herself wanting to diversify. That desire... Today with Lane McNab: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by Lane McNab. Lane runs a successful interior design business, Lane McNab Interiors, but, like so many of you, she found herself wanting to diversify. That desire eventually led to the birth of Guild by LMI, Lane’s furniture line.  Starting a furniture line, or adding any facet of the business, takes a lot of work. Today, Lane is sharing a spotlight on the challenges she faced and how she overcame them along the way. Pick it apart: [1:41] Lane shares what drove her to start her line and how her core values guided her in her endeavor.  [20:08] Lane discusses how she navigated production for her line, and how that has changed as the line has started to thrive.  [27:45] Lane details how to balance a commitment to sustainability and high-quality.  [32:02] Lane shares insights into the process of working in showrooms and the lessons she had to learn as she navigated that world.  [48:27] LuAnn and Lane discuss the nitty-gritty details of what financial impact went into the creation of the line. LuAnn and Lane McNab’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to determine along the way where you’re going to make a compromise, because you can’t make everyone happy all the time. So you have to determine what is the foundation of what you’re trying to do, and then that can inform those decisions as you’re trying to make them. There are hundreds of decisions that go into developing something like a furniture line.” -Lane McNab   “You know what I love about that, is it’s so typical of any entrepreneur’s journey, but of course to a designer’s journey. I can imagine that if you analyzed the projects you’ve done and the way you priced them twelve years ago, you’d probably say the same thing: ‘in the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was going to get another client or if the phone was ever going to ring again, so I was pricing projects at a lower rate. But I eventually understood that my value was worth more.’” -LuAnn Nigara   “Once I know what I’m going to do, and that my risk tolerance is ok with it, I’m just going to do it. I’m not going to hit a wall of ‘oh it’s too hard or too expensive.’ You just get to the next fork in the road and figure out how to make it work.” -Lane McNab More about Lane McNab: A Southern transplant, Lane grew up in Tallahassee, FL and completed undergraduate studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. Soon after she moved to the West Coast where she attended the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Graduating with advanced degrees in vocal performance, she pursued her music career spending several years as a highly-acclaimed operatic soprano in leading roles throughout the Bay Area. After years of extensive travel and studies abroad, Lane left opera singing to manage the demands of a growing family. When she returned to  the working world, she focused on her other artistic passion: designing interiors. Before founding Lane McNab Interiors in 2012, she apprenticed with a local design and construction firm as a designer and project manager which gave her an invaluable hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of the design and construction process.   A continuously curious learner with a passion for beauty, uniqueness, detail, and quality Lane has created a firm with a team of like-minded professionals giving her a devoted clientele and close relationships with vendors and tradespeople throughout the Bay Area. Her designs have been featured in numerous publications and tastemaker sites. When not passionately pursuing design, Lane spends her free time with her three children and husband in their 115 year old house in Berkeley, CA. Connect with Barry Lantz: Website Instagram   Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet’s commitment to innovation and their ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!     Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #205 Lane McNab: How Interior Designers and Contractors Work Together   #540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development   #73 Kim Kuhteubl: Understand the Value of Your Creativity and How to Find Your True Tribe   #670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. Today with Lane McNab:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I’m joined by Lane McNab. Lane runs a successful interior design business, Lane McNab Interiors, but, like so many of you, she found herself wanting to diversify. That desire eventually led to the birth of Guild by LMI, Lane’s furniture line. 

Starting a furniture line, or adding any facet of the business, takes a lot of work. Today, Lane is sharing a spotlight on the challenges she faced and how she overcame them along the way.

Pick it apart:

  • [1:41] Lane shares what drove her to start her line and how her core values guided her in her endeavor. 
  • [20:08] Lane discusses how she navigated production for her line, and how that has changed as the line has started to thrive. 
  • [27:45] Lane details how to balance a commitment to sustainability and high-quality. 
  • [32:02] Lane shares insights into the process of working in showrooms and the lessons she had to learn as she navigated that world. 
  • [48:27] LuAnn and Lane discuss the nitty-gritty details of what financial impact went into the creation of the line.

LuAnn and Lane McNab’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You have to determine along the way where you’re going to make a compromise, because you can’t make everyone happy all the time. So you have to determine what is the foundation of what you’re trying to do, and then that can inform those decisions as you’re trying to make them. There are hundreds of decisions that go into developing something like a furniture line.” -Lane McNab

 

“You know what I love about that, is it’s so typical of any entrepreneur’s journey, but of course to a designer’s journey. I can imagine that if you analyzed the projects you’ve done and the way you priced them twelve years ago, you’d probably say the same thing: ‘in the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was going to get another client or if the phone was ever going to ring again, so I was pricing projects at a lower rate. But I eventually understood that my value was worth more.’” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“Once I know what I’m going to do, and that my risk tolerance is ok with it, I’m just going to do it. I’m not going to hit a wall of ‘oh it’s too hard or too expensive.’ You just get to the next fork in the road and figure out how to make it work.” -Lane McNab

More about Lane McNab:

A Southern transplant, Lane grew up in Tallahassee, FL and completed undergraduate studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. Soon after she moved to the West Coast where she attended the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Graduating with advanced degrees in vocal performance, she pursued her music career spending several years as a highly-acclaimed operatic soprano in leading roles throughout the Bay Area.

After years of extensive travel and studies abroad, Lane left opera singing to manage the demands of a growing family. When she returned to  the working world, she focused on her other artistic passion: designing interiors. Before founding Lane McNab Interiors in 2012, she apprenticed with a local design and construction firm as a designer and project manager which gave her an invaluable hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of the design and construction process.  

A continuously curious learner with a passion for beauty, uniqueness, detail, and quality Lane has created a firm with a team of like-minded professionals giving her a devoted clientele and close relationships with vendors and tradespeople throughout the Bay Area. Her designs have been featured in numerous publications and tastemaker sites. When not passionately pursuing design, Lane spends her free time with her three children and husband in their 115 year old house in Berkeley, CA.

Connect with Barry Lantz:

Website

Instagram  

Facebook 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet: Kravet’s commitment to innovation and their ability to bring in new technology works to make life easier for you as a designer.  Their new website redesign makes finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!  

 

Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#205 Lane McNab: How Interior Designers and Contractors Work Together

 

#540 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

 

#73 Kim Kuhteubl: Understand the Value of Your Creativity and How to Find Your True Tribe

 

#670 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know.

]]> 4228 no 698: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/698-power-talk-friday-desi-creswell-tactics-to-beat-burnout-and-overwhelm Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business.  Desi Creswell, interior design coach and mindset guru shares the common signs of overwhelm and what can be done to combat the overwork that quietly sneaks into our lives when we take our eyes off our work/life vision and start telling ourselves all sorts of stories about why we must stack our day so high it starts to spill over. Pick it apart: [9:51] Desi covers the first few signs of overwhelm: buffering, daydreaming about quitting, and not being excited about your wins.   [16:26] Desi walks through the final signs of overwhelm: not feeling creative and not having fun anymore.   [27:05] Desi addresses how we can prevent overwhelm.   [43:01] Desi offers approaches to saying no to a project.   [51:19] Desi shares how working on our mindset allows us to process through negative emotions. LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha moments: “We’re overworking because we’re trying to get somewhere, but that ends up slowing us down - and might result in us quitting the dream instead of getting us there faster.” - Desi Cresswell   “Confidence is being able to have your own back through any emotion and knowing you can handle it.” - Desi Cresswell More About Desi Creswell: Desi is a Certified Life & Business Coach for interior designers who are exhausted from the hamster wheel and want to get out of the hustle. As a former interior designer who found another way, Desi understands how it feels to be trapped in the constant spin of busy work.  Through her intimate group program and private coaching, she coaches designers through mindset tools and practical strategies so that they can make the time to build meaningful progress toward their business and life goals.  Connect with Desi Creswell: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned:  #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time   #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset Fri, 27 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Tactics to Beat Burnout and Overwhelm full 698 LuAnn Nigara Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business.  Desi Creswell, interior design coach and mindset guru shares the common signs of overwhelm and what can be done to combat the overwork that quietly sneaks into our lives when we take... Today with Desi Creswell: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business.  Desi Creswell, interior design coach and mindset guru shares the common signs of overwhelm and what can be done to combat the overwork that quietly sneaks into our lives when we take our eyes off our work/life vision and start telling ourselves all sorts of stories about why we must stack our day so high it starts to spill over. Pick it apart: [9:51] Desi covers the first few signs of overwhelm: buffering, daydreaming about quitting, and not being excited about your wins.   [16:26] Desi walks through the final signs of overwhelm: not feeling creative and not having fun anymore.   [27:05] Desi addresses how we can prevent overwhelm.   [43:01] Desi offers approaches to saying no to a project.   [51:19] Desi shares how working on our mindset allows us to process through negative emotions. LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha moments: “We’re overworking because we’re trying to get somewhere, but that ends up slowing us down - and might result in us quitting the dream instead of getting us there faster.” - Desi Cresswell   “Confidence is being able to have your own back through any emotion and knowing you can handle it.” - Desi Cresswell More About Desi Creswell: Desi is a Certified Life & Business Coach for interior designers who are exhausted from the hamster wheel and want to get out of the hustle. As a former interior designer who found another way, Desi understands how it feels to be trapped in the constant spin of busy work.  Through her intimate group program and private coaching, she coaches designers through mindset tools and practical strategies so that they can make the time to build meaningful progress toward their business and life goals.  Connect with Desi Creswell: Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned:  #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time   #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset Today with Desi Creswell:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business.  Desi Creswell, interior design coach and mindset guru shares the common signs of overwhelm and what can be done to combat the overwork that quietly sneaks into our lives when we take our eyes off our work/life vision and start telling ourselves all sorts of stories about why we must stack our day so high it starts to spill over.

Pick it apart:

[9:51] Desi covers the first few signs of overwhelm: buffering, daydreaming about quitting, and not being excited about your wins.

 

[16:26] Desi walks through the final signs of overwhelm: not feeling creative and not having fun anymore.

 

[27:05] Desi addresses how we can prevent overwhelm.

 

[43:01] Desi offers approaches to saying no to a project.

 

[51:19] Desi shares how working on our mindset allows us to process through negative emotions.

LuAnn and Desi Creswell's Ah-Ha moments:

“We’re overworking because we’re trying to get somewhere, but that ends up slowing us down - and might result in us quitting the dream instead of getting us there faster.” - Desi Cresswell

 

“Confidence is being able to have your own back through any emotion and knowing you can handle it.” - Desi Cresswell

More About Desi Creswell:

Desi is a Certified Life & Business Coach for interior designers who are exhausted from the hamster wheel and want to get out of the hustle. As a former interior designer who found another way, Desi understands how it feels to be trapped in the constant spin of busy work. 

Through her intimate group program and private coaching, she coaches designers through mindset tools and practical strategies so that they can make the time to build meaningful progress toward their business and life goals. 

Connect with Desi Creswell:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time

 

#557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

]]> 4681 no 697: Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/697-barry-lantz-advice-from-a-seasoned-interior-designer Today with Barry Lantz: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his twenties, Barry Lantz worked retail before starting his own full-service interior design business. Then, instead of retiring, he switched gears to begin a successful encore career in art. Learn what advice this seasoned pro has for young designers and the words his mother told him that he’ll never forget. Pick it apart: [7:09] Barry talks about his first job before starting his own business.   [11:15] Barry shares his story about pitching to Kravet.   [17:41] Barry talks about his unique approach to client presentations.   [26:35] Barry shares advice for designers.   [30:36] Barry talks about the need for designers to have confidence. LuAnn and Barry Lantz’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, selling is the rush. I just love to sell!” - Barry Lantz   “Two of the biggest words for success are selling and presentation.” - Barry Lantz “I never think anything. I’ve never said that to a client.” - Barry Lantz More about Barry Lantz: Known nationally for his sense of style and interior design talent, Barry Lantz embarked on a professional artistic career in 2010. After painting several pieces for an event and selling them unexpectedly, he began to paint on canvas as a layer to his design business. His art has become an important component of his successful design profession. Barry of A Lantz Design has designed interior and exterior spaces for more than thirty years. His signature interiors have been published in local and national publications. Barry’s work is admired, respected and enjoyed in over thirteen states in the United States. His style and talent have also been featured on HGTV. Barry continues to provide interior and exterior design services to his clients everywhere.  The long lasting relationship he has with clients is what motivated him to begin his expression on canvas. With the use of color, scale, form and balance the interior spaces he creates become works of art. By applying his forward design approach to canvas, Barry’s art comes alive with movement, mood, color, scale and proportion. Inspiration comes from shapes, light, texture, color and earthly ingredients.  His new found love for painting has become a passion. “Having placed several hundred pieces since 2010 is overwhelming and very flattering,” he shares. Barry paints in his design studio in Carmel, Indiana.  His studio features work in all sizes and colors and you can see a painting in progress.  Commissions are welcome for the most discriminating buyers and collectors. Connect with Barry Lantz: Website Instagram Barry Lantz Interiors Kravet: Barry Lantz Canvas to Cloth What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: To see what’s new at Kravet, go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off. If you are going to High Point this fall, Oct 2021, please be sure to stop into to Kravet. Their showroom is one of the most beautiful ones there. You can see the Canvas to Cloth Collection, meet the Kravet team and let them know how much you appreciate their support in helping me bring this podcast to you.  If you will be in High Point, I hope you are planning to come the LuAnn and Friends Meet and Greet party sponsored by Revel Woods Pandora's Manor. This is a free event but you do need to RSVP. Please go RSVP here! Tue, 24 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Barry Lantz: Advice from a Seasoned Interior Designer full 697 LuAnn Nigara Today with Barry Lantz: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his twenties, Barry Lantz worked retail before starting his own full-service interior design business. Then, instead of retiring, he switched gears to begin a successful encore career in... Today with Barry Lantz: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his twenties, Barry Lantz worked retail before starting his own full-service interior design business. Then, instead of retiring, he switched gears to begin a successful encore career in art. Learn what advice this seasoned pro has for young designers and the words his mother told him that he’ll never forget. Pick it apart: [7:09] Barry talks about his first job before starting his own business.   [11:15] Barry shares his story about pitching to Kravet.   [17:41] Barry talks about his unique approach to client presentations.   [26:35] Barry shares advice for designers.   [30:36] Barry talks about the need for designers to have confidence. LuAnn and Barry Lantz’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, selling is the rush. I just love to sell!” - Barry Lantz   “Two of the biggest words for success are selling and presentation.” - Barry Lantz “I never think anything. I’ve never said that to a client.” - Barry Lantz More about Barry Lantz: Known nationally for his sense of style and interior design talent, Barry Lantz embarked on a professional artistic career in 2010. After painting several pieces for an event and selling them unexpectedly, he began to paint on canvas as a layer to his design business. His art has become an important component of his successful design profession. Barry of A Lantz Design has designed interior and exterior spaces for more than thirty years. His signature interiors have been published in local and national publications. Barry’s work is admired, respected and enjoyed in over thirteen states in the United States. His style and talent have also been featured on HGTV. Barry continues to provide interior and exterior design services to his clients everywhere.  The long lasting relationship he has with clients is what motivated him to begin his expression on canvas. With the use of color, scale, form and balance the interior spaces he creates become works of art. By applying his forward design approach to canvas, Barry’s art comes alive with movement, mood, color, scale and proportion. Inspiration comes from shapes, light, texture, color and earthly ingredients.  His new found love for painting has become a passion. “Having placed several hundred pieces since 2010 is overwhelming and very flattering,” he shares. Barry paints in his design studio in Carmel, Indiana.  His studio features work in all sizes and colors and you can see a painting in progress.  Commissions are welcome for the most discriminating buyers and collectors. Connect with Barry Lantz: Website Instagram Barry Lantz Interiors Kravet: Barry Lantz Canvas to Cloth What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: To see what’s new at Kravet, go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off. If you are going to High Point this fall, Oct 2021, please be sure to stop into to Kravet. Their showroom is one of the most beautiful ones there. You can see the Canvas to Cloth Collection, meet the Kravet team and let them know how much you appreciate their support in helping me bring this podcast to you.  If you will be in High Point, I hope you are planning to come the LuAnn and Friends Meet and Greet party sponsored by Revel Woods Pandora's Manor. This is a free event but you do need to RSVP. Please go RSVP here! Today with Barry Lantz:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his twenties, Barry Lantz worked retail before starting his own full-service interior design business. Then, instead of retiring, he switched gears to begin a successful encore career in art. Learn what advice this seasoned pro has for young designers and the words his mother told him that he’ll never forget.

Pick it apart:

[7:09] Barry talks about his first job before starting his own business.

 

[11:15] Barry shares his story about pitching to Kravet.

 

[17:41] Barry talks about his unique approach to client presentations.

 

[26:35] Barry shares advice for designers.

 

[30:36] Barry talks about the need for designers to have confidence.

LuAnn and Barry Lantz’s Ah-Ha moments:

“For me, selling is the rush. I just love to sell!” - Barry Lantz

 

“Two of the biggest words for success are selling and presentation.” - Barry Lantz

“I never think anything. I’ve never said that to a client.” - Barry Lantz

More about Barry Lantz:

Known nationally for his sense of style and interior design talent, Barry Lantz embarked on a professional artistic career in 2010. After painting several pieces for an event and selling them unexpectedly, he began to paint on canvas as a layer to his design business. His art has become an important component of his successful design profession.

Barry of A Lantz Design has designed interior and exterior spaces for more than thirty years. His signature interiors have been published in local and national publications. Barry’s work is admired, respected and enjoyed in over thirteen states in the United States. His style and talent have also been featured on HGTV. Barry continues to provide interior and exterior design services to his clients everywhere. 

The long lasting relationship he has with clients is what motivated him to begin his expression on canvas. With the use of color, scale, form and balance the interior spaces he creates become works of art.

By applying his forward design approach to canvas, Barry’s art comes alive with movement, mood, color, scale and proportion. Inspiration comes from shapes, light, texture, color and earthly ingredients. 

His new found love for painting has become a passion. “Having placed several hundred pieces since 2010 is overwhelming and very flattering,” he shares. Barry paints in his design studio in Carmel, Indiana.  His studio features work in all sizes and colors and you can see a painting in progress. 

Commissions are welcome for the most discriminating buyers and collectors.

Connect with Barry Lantz:

Website

Instagram

Barry Lantz Interiors

Kravet: Barry Lantz Canvas to Cloth

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet: To see what’s new at Kravet, go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off.

If you are going to High Point this fall, Oct 2021, please be sure to stop into to Kravet. Their showroom is one of the most beautiful ones there. You can see the Canvas to Cloth Collection, meet the Kravet team and let them know how much you appreciate their support in helping me bring this podcast to you. 

If you will be in High Point, I hope you are planning to come the LuAnn and Friends Meet and Greet party sponsored by Revel Woods Pandora's Manor. This is a free event but you do need to RSVP. Please go RSVP here!

]]> 3890 no 696: Power Talk Friday: Lisa Princic: Uncovering the Value Proposition in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/696-power-talk-friday-lisa-princic-uncovering-the-value-proposition-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Lisa Princic: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about niching on the show. But today we’re talking about a different aspect of getting clear on what you do—your value proposition. Don’t let the marketing jargon fool you: your value proposition is something you already have, whether you’ve defined it or not. Today, business strategist Lisa Princic is sharing her insights on what a value proposition is, why it matters, and how to gain clarity around yours.  Pick it apart: [0:53] Lisa highlights what a value proposition is and how it helps you think about your business like a business.  [5:15] Lisa shares her story of entrepreneurship and how she realized that she needed to define her value proposition. [11:12] LuAnn and Lisa discuss the emotional transformation designers offer their clients and how they can distinguish that from others.  [23:48] LuAnn and Lisa talk about why it’s worth taking the time to get clear on your messaging. [31:05] Lisa discusses why targeting your message at the clients most ready to buy makes more sense than trying to attract everyone. LuAnn and Lisa Princic’s Ah-Ha moments: “This is what I find interesting about service-based businesses. We start a little bit casually. We say “I want to do this thing” and we don’t really think about it like a business. But could you imagine a business that is planning to have huge growth or is asking for a lot of venture capitalist funding before they get started—they have to prove themselves before they go to market. They’re figuring out their value proposition before they’re setting up shop. They have to know that it’s getting traction, they have to do their market research, and they have to get clear on why it’s going to be successful. We don’t do that.” -Lisa Princic   “Whether or not you call it out on your website “I am the interior design that does sustainable design” for example, if you have enough blog posts and information out there, the people that are searching that will find you, and if they love your portfolio and all the other things fall into place, then they already know you can do that because of the writing, but whether your website has you niched all the way down is irrelevant at that point.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Trust is created through words more than it is through photos. It’s letting them know what you do. You can be ultra nurturing, you can be leading edge...these are all really subtle things that we can write down...You’re going to better suit different clients based on your personality.” -Lisa Princic More About Lisa Princic: Lisa Princic is a trained business strategist and the host of the Scaling Deep Podcast. Lisa's clients turn to her for help with business growth when they are worn out from chasing the next mass marketing trick, but know they need to go beyond word of mouth. She is a results-oriented, deep thinker who has an innate instinct for “seeing” the value of a business and turning that into a pipeline of ideal clients. A staunch believer in business simplicity and intention, Lisa helps her clients accomplish their goals by focusing on what to do AND what to ignore. Connect with Lisa Princic: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned:  #651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design   #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business Fri, 20 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Lisa Princic: Uncovering the Value Proposition in Your Interior Design Business full 696 LuAnn Nigara Today with Lisa Princic: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about niching on the show. But today we’re talking about a different aspect of getting clear on what you do—your value proposition. Don’t let the marketing jargon fool... Today with Lisa Princic: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about niching on the show. But today we’re talking about a different aspect of getting clear on what you do—your value proposition. Don’t let the marketing jargon fool you: your value proposition is something you already have, whether you’ve defined it or not. Today, business strategist Lisa Princic is sharing her insights on what a value proposition is, why it matters, and how to gain clarity around yours.  Pick it apart: [0:53] Lisa highlights what a value proposition is and how it helps you think about your business like a business.  [5:15] Lisa shares her story of entrepreneurship and how she realized that she needed to define her value proposition. [11:12] LuAnn and Lisa discuss the emotional transformation designers offer their clients and how they can distinguish that from others.  [23:48] LuAnn and Lisa talk about why it’s worth taking the time to get clear on your messaging. [31:05] Lisa discusses why targeting your message at the clients most ready to buy makes more sense than trying to attract everyone. LuAnn and Lisa Princic’s Ah-Ha moments: “This is what I find interesting about service-based businesses. We start a little bit casually. We say “I want to do this thing” and we don’t really think about it like a business. But could you imagine a business that is planning to have huge growth or is asking for a lot of venture capitalist funding before they get started—they have to prove themselves before they go to market. They’re figuring out their value proposition before they’re setting up shop. They have to know that it’s getting traction, they have to do their market research, and they have to get clear on why it’s going to be successful. We don’t do that.” -Lisa Princic   “Whether or not you call it out on your website “I am the interior design that does sustainable design” for example, if you have enough blog posts and information out there, the people that are searching that will find you, and if they love your portfolio and all the other things fall into place, then they already know you can do that because of the writing, but whether your website has you niched all the way down is irrelevant at that point.” -LuAnn Nigara   “Trust is created through words more than it is through photos. It’s letting them know what you do. You can be ultra nurturing, you can be leading edge...these are all really subtle things that we can write down...You’re going to better suit different clients based on your personality.” -Lisa Princic More About Lisa Princic: Lisa Princic is a trained business strategist and the host of the Scaling Deep Podcast. Lisa's clients turn to her for help with business growth when they are worn out from chasing the next mass marketing trick, but know they need to go beyond word of mouth. She is a results-oriented, deep thinker who has an innate instinct for “seeing” the value of a business and turning that into a pipeline of ideal clients. A staunch believer in business simplicity and intention, Lisa helps her clients accomplish their goals by focusing on what to do AND what to ignore. Connect with Lisa Princic: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned:  #651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design   #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business Today with Lisa Princic:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We talk a lot about niching on the show. But today we’re talking about a different aspect of getting clear on what you do—your value proposition. Don’t let the marketing jargon fool you: your value proposition is something you already have, whether you’ve defined it or not. Today, business strategist Lisa Princic is sharing her insights on what a value proposition is, why it matters, and how to gain clarity around yours. 

Pick it apart:

  • [0:53] Lisa highlights what a value proposition is and how it helps you think about your business like a business. 
  • [5:15] Lisa shares her story of entrepreneurship and how she realized that she needed to define her value proposition.
  • [11:12] LuAnn and Lisa discuss the emotional transformation designers offer their clients and how they can distinguish that from others. 
  • [23:48] LuAnn and Lisa talk about why it’s worth taking the time to get clear on your messaging.
  • [31:05] Lisa discusses why targeting your message at the clients most ready to buy makes more sense than trying to attract everyone.

LuAnn and Lisa Princic’s Ah-Ha moments:

“This is what I find interesting about service-based businesses. We start a little bit casually. We say “I want to do this thing” and we don’t really think about it like a business. But could you imagine a business that is planning to have huge growth or is asking for a lot of venture capitalist funding before they get started—they have to prove themselves before they go to market. They’re figuring out their value proposition before they’re setting up shop. They have to know that it’s getting traction, they have to do their market research, and they have to get clear on why it’s going to be successful. We don’t do that.” -Lisa Princic

 

“Whether or not you call it out on your website “I am the interior design that does sustainable design” for example, if you have enough blog posts and information out there, the people that are searching that will find you, and if they love your portfolio and all the other things fall into place, then they already know you can do that because of the writing, but whether your website has you niched all the way down is irrelevant at that point.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“Trust is created through words more than it is through photos. It’s letting them know what you do. You can be ultra nurturing, you can be leading edge...these are all really subtle things that we can write down...You’re going to better suit different clients based on your personality.” -Lisa Princic

More About Lisa Princic:

Lisa Princic is a trained business strategist and the host of the Scaling Deep Podcast. Lisa's clients turn to her for help with business growth when they are worn out from chasing the next mass marketing trick, but know they need to go beyond word of mouth. She is a results-oriented, deep thinker who has an innate instinct for “seeing” the value of a business and turning that into a pipeline of ideal clients. A staunch believer in business simplicity and intention, Lisa helps her clients accomplish their goals by focusing on what to do AND what to ignore.

Connect with Lisa Princic:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#651 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design

 

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

 

#256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

 

#214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3554 no 695: Kate Rasmussen: Breaking into New Interior Design Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/695-kate-rasmussen-breaking-into-new-interior-design-projects Today with Kate Rasmussen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about how to take on new projects—specifically projects that you don’t have experience or expertise in. It can seem almost impossible to break into new avenues in your business. But with the right strategy in place, you can find and land new projects, even without the specific expertise in that area. I’m joined by Kate Rasmussen of Wade Weissmann Architecture, who has quite a bit of experience doing just that! Pick it apart: [1:16] Kate talks about putting together pricing and proposals when jumping into brand new types of projects. [9:50] LuAnn and Kate discuss how to successfully manage new projects without having the systems and processes in place.  [18:07] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of designing with your client’s budget in mind.  [32:25] Kate shares how to find growth opportunities for your firm.  [45:55] Kate gives her insight on how to develop relationships with architects. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “When you’re breaking into a new market, you’re probably not going to hit the same profitability margin, but you also don’t want it to hit the bottom line too hard, especially when it’s a much larger project.” -Kate Rasmussen   “We analyze at the end of a project what went well, what didn’t go well, from design to schedule to communication, and then at the heart of it, profitability.” -Kate Rasmussen   “It does attest to the power of relationships, that it’s not a transaction, it’s a conversation, it’s a friendship, it’s a relationship. You’re not necessarily calling them to ask them to show you or teach you or help you propose this. You’re calling on a colleague that you know has done a project of similar style or scale and you’re picking their brain about that project— what were the pitfalls, the challenges, what did you not know before you started.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Kate Rasmussen: Website  Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more. Tue, 17 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Kate Rasmussen: Breaking into New Interior Design Projects full 695 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kate Rasmussen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about how to take on new projects—specifically projects that you don’t have experience or expertise in. It can seem almost impossible to break into new avenues... Today with Kate Rasmussen: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about how to take on new projects—specifically projects that you don’t have experience or expertise in. It can seem almost impossible to break into new avenues in your business. But with the right strategy in place, you can find and land new projects, even without the specific expertise in that area. I’m joined by Kate Rasmussen of Wade Weissmann Architecture, who has quite a bit of experience doing just that! Pick it apart: [1:16] Kate talks about putting together pricing and proposals when jumping into brand new types of projects. [9:50] LuAnn and Kate discuss how to successfully manage new projects without having the systems and processes in place.  [18:07] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of designing with your client’s budget in mind.  [32:25] Kate shares how to find growth opportunities for your firm.  [45:55] Kate gives her insight on how to develop relationships with architects. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “When you’re breaking into a new market, you’re probably not going to hit the same profitability margin, but you also don’t want it to hit the bottom line too hard, especially when it’s a much larger project.” -Kate Rasmussen   “We analyze at the end of a project what went well, what didn’t go well, from design to schedule to communication, and then at the heart of it, profitability.” -Kate Rasmussen   “It does attest to the power of relationships, that it’s not a transaction, it’s a conversation, it’s a friendship, it’s a relationship. You’re not necessarily calling them to ask them to show you or teach you or help you propose this. You’re calling on a colleague that you know has done a project of similar style or scale and you’re picking their brain about that project— what were the pitfalls, the challenges, what did you not know before you started.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Kate Rasmussen: Website  Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point  luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more. Today with Kate Rasmussen:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about how to take on new projects—specifically projects that you don’t have experience or expertise in. It can seem almost impossible to break into new avenues in your business. But with the right strategy in place, you can find and land new projects, even without the specific expertise in that area. I’m joined by Kate Rasmussen of Wade Weissmann Architecture, who has quite a bit of experience doing just that!

Pick it apart:

    • [1:16] Kate talks about putting together pricing and proposals when jumping into brand new types of projects.
    • [9:50] LuAnn and Kate discuss how to successfully manage new projects without having the systems and processes in place. 
    • [18:07] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of designing with your client’s budget in mind. 
    • [32:25] Kate shares how to find growth opportunities for your firm. 
    • [45:55] Kate gives her insight on how to develop relationships with architects.

LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“When you’re breaking into a new market, you’re probably not going to hit the same profitability margin, but you also don’t want it to hit the bottom line too hard, especially when it’s a much larger project.” -Kate Rasmussen

 

“We analyze at the end of a project what went well, what didn’t go well, from design to schedule to communication, and then at the heart of it, profitability.” -Kate Rasmussen

 

“It does attest to the power of relationships, that it’s not a transaction, it’s a conversation, it’s a friendship, it’s a relationship. You’re not necessarily calling them to ask them to show you or teach you or help you propose this. You’re calling on a colleague that you know has done a project of similar style or scale and you’re picking their brain about that project— what were the pitfalls, the challenges, what did you not know before you started.” -LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Kate Rasmussen:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook  

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point 

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.  

Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.

]]> 4152 no 694: Flashback Friday: Christine Lin: Success Starts with Your Goals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/694-flashback-friday-christine-lin-success-starts-with-your-goals On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Flashback Friday is back and we dug up another favorite from the podcast archives.  Christine Lin of San Francisco’s Form and Field walks through how she went from working for a designer part-time to starting her own thriving business. A podcast listener, Christine implemented much of what she heard, but she also experienced some bumps along the way. Listen in to learn what tripped her up and what she’s doing so it doesn’t happen again. Pick it apart: [6:33] Christine talks about how she got her business systems set up [15:50] Christine tells how she works with friends who are also clients  [23:03] Christine talk about mistakes she made with hiring  [29:20] Christine shares her experience with hiring and managing a bookkeeper [39:41] Christine tells how she got fired from one of her projects [46:34] LuAnn asks Christine what went wrong when charging a flat fee [58:10] Christine shares the mantra that has helped makes her business better LuAnn and Christine's Ah-Ha moments: “I had an employee handbook before I even hired anyone.” -Christine Lin   “I knew I could go farther and faster on my own.” -Christine Lin   “It wasn’t about what’s leftover, that’s what I’m going to pay myself. It was, this is my goal, and I’m going to do whatever it takes to hit it.” -Christine Lin “What can you do differently to produce a better result.” -Christine Lin   Connect with Christine Lin Website  Instagram Pinterest   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods. Please go to revelwoods.com to learn how you can add wood flooring to your product offerings. I know you make money on design fees-- but to generate real revenue you have to be selling product too, and why not wood flooring? Revel Woods has their design trade program so well thought out that it makes it easy for you to get into this, experience or not. Fri, 13 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Christine Lin: Success Starts with Your Goals full 694 LuAnn Nigara On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Flashback Friday is back and we dug up another favorite from the podcast archives.  Christine Lin of San Francisco’s Form and Field walks through how she went from working for a... On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Flashback Friday is back and we dug up another favorite from the podcast archives.  Christine Lin of San Francisco’s Form and Field walks through how she went from working for a designer part-time to starting her own thriving business. A podcast listener, Christine implemented much of what she heard, but she also experienced some bumps along the way. Listen in to learn what tripped her up and what she’s doing so it doesn’t happen again. Pick it apart: [6:33] Christine talks about how she got her business systems set up [15:50] Christine tells how she works with friends who are also clients  [23:03] Christine talk about mistakes she made with hiring  [29:20] Christine shares her experience with hiring and managing a bookkeeper [39:41] Christine tells how she got fired from one of her projects [46:34] LuAnn asks Christine what went wrong when charging a flat fee [58:10] Christine shares the mantra that has helped makes her business better LuAnn and Christine's Ah-Ha moments: “I had an employee handbook before I even hired anyone.” -Christine Lin   “I knew I could go farther and faster on my own.” -Christine Lin   “It wasn’t about what’s leftover, that’s what I’m going to pay myself. It was, this is my goal, and I’m going to do whatever it takes to hit it.” -Christine Lin “What can you do differently to produce a better result.” -Christine Lin   Connect with Christine Lin Website  Instagram Pinterest   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods. Please go to revelwoods.com to learn how you can add wood flooring to your product offerings. I know you make money on design fees-- but to generate real revenue you have to be selling product too, and why not wood flooring? Revel Woods has their design trade program so well thought out that it makes it easy for you to get into this, experience or not. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Flashback Friday is back and we dug up another favorite from the podcast archives. 

Christine Lin of San Francisco’s Form and Field walks through how she went from working for a designer part-time to starting her own thriving business. A podcast listener, Christine implemented much of what she heard, but she also experienced some bumps along the way. Listen in to learn what tripped her up and what she’s doing so it doesn’t happen again.

Pick it apart:

  • [6:33] Christine talks about how she got her business systems set up

    [15:50] Christine tells how she works with friends who are also clients 

    [23:03] Christine talk about mistakes she made with hiring 

    [29:20] Christine shares her experience with hiring and managing a bookkeeper

    [39:41] Christine tells how she got fired from one of her projects

    [46:34] LuAnn asks Christine what went wrong when charging a flat fee

    [58:10] Christine shares the mantra that has helped makes her business better

LuAnn and Christine's Ah-Ha moments:

“I had an employee handbook before I even hired anyone.” -Christine Lin

 

“I knew I could go farther and faster on my own.” -Christine Lin

 

“It wasn’t about what’s leftover, that’s what I’m going to pay myself. It was, this is my goal, and I’m going to do whatever it takes to hit it.” -Christine Lin

“What can you do differently to produce a better result.” -Christine Lin

  Connect with Christine Lin

Website 

Instagram

Pinterest

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods. Please go to revelwoods.com to learn how you can add wood flooring to your product offerings. I know you make money on design fees-- but to generate real revenue you have to be selling product too, and why not wood flooring? Revel Woods has their design trade program so well thought out that it makes it easy for you to get into this, experience or not.

]]> 4148 no 693: Amy Lynn Allard: Tactics for Team and Project Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/693-amy-lynn-allard-excellence-without-overwhelm Today with Amy Lynn Allard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline. Pick it apart: [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations. [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda. [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting. [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work. [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process. [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “Hire and fire off your core values.” - Amy Lynn Allard Connect with Amy Lynn Allard: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.    Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com.   IDS: The Interior Design Society (IDS) is one of the country's largest design organizations dedicated to serving the residential interior design industry. We're a group of like-minded professionals interested in broadening their network, professional development, and continued education. IDS offers its members a place to belong within a supportive and welcoming design community through local chapters nationwide, and our Virtual Chapter! Tue, 10 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Amy Lynn Allard: Tactics for Team and Project Management full 693 LuAnn Nigara Today with Amy Lynn Allard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time... Today with Amy Lynn Allard: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline. Pick it apart: [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations. [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda. [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting. [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work. [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process. [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach. LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments: “Hire and fire off your core values.” - Amy Lynn Allard Connect with Amy Lynn Allard: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.    Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com.   IDS: The Interior Design Society (IDS) is one of the country's largest design organizations dedicated to serving the residential interior design industry. We're a group of like-minded professionals interested in broadening their network, professional development, and continued education. IDS offers its members a place to belong within a supportive and welcoming design community through local chapters nationwide, and our Virtual Chapter! Today with Amy Lynn Allard:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Looking for advice on systems to turbo-charge your business? Amy Lynn Allard of Boston’s Amy Lynn Interiors learned to thrive using well-crafted, meticulous systems. She is big on time blocking, but that’s not all. Amy walks through two of her most powerful systems, the team agenda and an invaluable spreadsheet she uses to create a multiple-project timeline.

Pick it apart:

  • [17:53] Amy explains her approach to adding specs to elevations.

    [25:47] Amy walks through how she creates her agenda.

    [42:14] Amy explains her Monday morning overview meeting.

    [45:22] Amy shares how she creates a schedule for new client work.

    [46:42] LuAnn recaps Amy’s new client schedule creation process.

    [53:52] Amy shares about her business coach.

LuAnn and Amy Lynn Allard’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Hire and fire off your core values.” - Amy Lynn Allard

Connect with Amy Lynn Allard:

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. 

 

Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com.

 

IDS: The Interior Design Society (IDS) is one of the country's largest design organizations dedicated to serving the residential interior design industry. We're a group of like-minded professionals interested in broadening their network, professional development, and continued education. IDS offers its members a place to belong within a supportive and welcoming design community through local chapters nationwide, and our Virtual Chapter!

]]> 4737 no 692: Power Talk Friday: Fiona Mostyn: Leveraging Your Blog to Bolster Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/692-power-talk-friday-fiona-mostyn-leveraging-your-blog-to-bolster-your-interior-design-business Today with Fiona Mostyn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers know that a blog can be a valuable marketing tool. But are you using your blog to its fullest potential? Or are you making the mistake that many designers make of not beginning with your goal in mind?  Today, I’m joined by Fiona Mostyn of My Deco Marketing, a blog service for interior designers. Fiona is sharing her insight into how you can leverage your blog to grow your business and help it thrive. Pick it apart: [2:30] Fiona shares why beginning your blog with your goal in mind is vital to its success. [10:18] LuAnn and Fiona discuss how to prioritize your purpose within your blog posts.  [22:34] Fiona talks about repurposing your blog content to help grow your social media presence.  [28:40] Fiona gives the latest advice on blogging best practices. [38:09] LuAnn and Fiona discuss the importance of SEO and how big of a process it is. LuAnn and Fiona Mostyn’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you want to elevate your business to get the clients that you want, you need to think about who that person is and then start speaking to them in their language, which is what your blog allows you to do. So I really think that niching is the key to a successful business.” -Fiona Mostyn   “Niche down so much that you’re not only the best option for your people, you’re the only option.” -Fiona Mostyn   “I’ve said often on the show, back in the day when we started our company and there was no internet that when you wanted to advertise, you called someone and you paid them and you gave them money and they developed an ad for you and put it in a magazine. And now, we’re expected to be designers and window treatment professionals and podcasters and also marketing people.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Fiona Mostyn: Fiona runs My Deco Marketing, a specialist marketing service that helps interior designers and home decor brands with smarter marketing to become more visible online. Fiona has written hundreds of blogs for designers and home decor brands. Fiona also provides CPD marketing webinars and content for the UK's leading associations for interior designers including The British Institute of Interior Designers, The Home Staging Association UK & Ireland and The Decorcafe Network for Creative Businesses. In January 2021 Fiona published 365+ Blog post ideas for interior designers. Connect with Fiona Mostyn: Instagram Website  Membership Ebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always working to make finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With their latest website redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!     Other Shows Mentioned:      # 364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm   #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business Fri, 06 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Fiona Mostyn: Leveraging Your Blog to Bolster Your Interior Design Business full 692 LuAnn Nigara Today with Fiona Mostyn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers know that a blog can be a valuable marketing tool. But are you using your blog to its fullest potential? Or are you making the mistake that many designers make of not... Today with Fiona Mostyn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers know that a blog can be a valuable marketing tool. But are you using your blog to its fullest potential? Or are you making the mistake that many designers make of not beginning with your goal in mind?  Today, I’m joined by Fiona Mostyn of My Deco Marketing, a blog service for interior designers. Fiona is sharing her insight into how you can leverage your blog to grow your business and help it thrive. Pick it apart: [2:30] Fiona shares why beginning your blog with your goal in mind is vital to its success. [10:18] LuAnn and Fiona discuss how to prioritize your purpose within your blog posts.  [22:34] Fiona talks about repurposing your blog content to help grow your social media presence.  [28:40] Fiona gives the latest advice on blogging best practices. [38:09] LuAnn and Fiona discuss the importance of SEO and how big of a process it is. LuAnn and Fiona Mostyn’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you want to elevate your business to get the clients that you want, you need to think about who that person is and then start speaking to them in their language, which is what your blog allows you to do. So I really think that niching is the key to a successful business.” -Fiona Mostyn   “Niche down so much that you’re not only the best option for your people, you’re the only option.” -Fiona Mostyn   “I’ve said often on the show, back in the day when we started our company and there was no internet that when you wanted to advertise, you called someone and you paid them and you gave them money and they developed an ad for you and put it in a magazine. And now, we’re expected to be designers and window treatment professionals and podcasters and also marketing people.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Fiona Mostyn: Fiona runs My Deco Marketing, a specialist marketing service that helps interior designers and home decor brands with smarter marketing to become more visible online. Fiona has written hundreds of blogs for designers and home decor brands. Fiona also provides CPD marketing webinars and content for the UK's leading associations for interior designers including The British Institute of Interior Designers, The Home Staging Association UK & Ireland and The Decorcafe Network for Creative Businesses. In January 2021 Fiona published 365+ Blog post ideas for interior designers. Connect with Fiona Mostyn: Instagram Website  Membership Ebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always working to make finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With their latest website redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!     Other Shows Mentioned:      # 364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm   #635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business   #214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business Today with Fiona Mostyn:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Many designers know that a blog can be a valuable marketing tool. But are you using your blog to its fullest potential? Or are you making the mistake that many designers make of not beginning with your goal in mind? 

Today, I’m joined by Fiona Mostyn of My Deco Marketing, a blog service for interior designers. Fiona is sharing her insight into how you can leverage your blog to grow your business and help it thrive.

Pick it apart:

  • [2:30] Fiona shares why beginning your blog with your goal in mind is vital to its success.
  • [10:18] LuAnn and Fiona discuss how to prioritize your purpose within your blog posts. 
  • [22:34] Fiona talks about repurposing your blog content to help grow your social media presence. 
  • [28:40] Fiona gives the latest advice on blogging best practices.
  • [38:09] LuAnn and Fiona discuss the importance of SEO and how big of a process it is.

LuAnn and Fiona Mostyn’s Ah-Ha moments:

“If you want to elevate your business to get the clients that you want, you need to think about who that person is and then start speaking to them in their language, which is what your blog allows you to do. So I really think that niching is the key to a successful business.” -Fiona Mostyn

 

“Niche down so much that you’re not only the best option for your people, you’re the only option.” -Fiona Mostyn

 

“I’ve said often on the show, back in the day when we started our company and there was no internet that when you wanted to advertise, you called someone and you paid them and you gave them money and they developed an ad for you and put it in a magazine. And now, we’re expected to be designers and window treatment professionals and podcasters and also marketing people.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Fiona Mostyn:

Fiona runs My Deco Marketing, a specialist marketing service that helps interior designers and home decor brands with smarter marketing to become more visible online.

Fiona has written hundreds of blogs for designers and home decor brands. Fiona also provides CPD marketing webinars and content for the UK's leading associations for interior designers including The British Institute of Interior Designers, The Home Staging Association UK & Ireland and The Decorcafe Network for Creative Businesses.

In January 2021 Fiona published 365+ Blog post ideas for interior designers.

Connect with Fiona Mostyn:

Instagram

Website 

Membership

Ebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is always working to make finding quality home furnishings even easier for you. With their latest website redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Be sure to use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order!

 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

 

 

# 364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm

 

#635 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

 

#214 Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3978 no 691: What Would Lu Do?: My Vendor Left me High and Dry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/691-what-would-lu-do-my-vendor-left-me-high-and-dry Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer whose vendor left them high and dry. Join me today and I break down this listener's dilemma from start to finish.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Tue, 03 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: My Vendor Left me High and Dry full 691 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer whose vendor left them high and dry. Join me today and I break down this listener's dilemma from start to finish. ... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer whose vendor left them high and dry. Join me today and I break down this listener's dilemma from start to finish.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer whose vendor left them high and dry. Join me today and I break down this listener's dilemma from start to finish. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 2693 no 690: Power Talk Friday: Emily King: Rewriting Your Money Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-emily-king-rewriting-your-money-mindset Today with Emily King: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What money story are you’re playing in your head? Does it open you up to opportunities and building a successful business or does it hold you back from making your dreams a reality? Emily King, of The Rich Woman, walks through how to discover our money personality and detox ourselves from negative money talk so we can start living a life of abundance and opportunity. Pick it apart: [16:10] Emily explains what money mindset is.   [25:20] Emily shares how her money mindset was shaped by her childhood.   [34:11] Emily explains the money personality archetypes.   [47:14] Emily shares some things you can do on your own to recognize and overcome your money blocks.   [51:07] LuAnn tells how she prepared her daughters to be able to support themselves no matter what. LuAnn and Emily King’s Ah-Ha moments: “We get to rewrite our money story to a more empowering one.” - Emily King More About Emily King: Emily King is a wealth & abundance coach for entrepreneurial women and the founder of The Rich Woman signature coaching program. Since 2015 she’s worked with 100’s of women to help them create a loving relationship with money so they can massively increase their income and impact. Armed with an MBA and certifications as an NLP practitioner, timeline therapist and pilates instructor (yes--all those things!), Emily brings the perfect mix of manifesting-woo and business chops to the table to help women across the world live their best ‘Rich Woman’ lives - a life of financial freedom, fulfillment and fun.   Connect with Emily King: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com. Fri, 30 Jul 2021 13:38:30 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Emily King: Rewriting Your Money Mindset full 690 LuAnn Nigara Today with Emily King: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What money story are you’re playing in your head? Does it open you up to opportunities and building a successful business or does it hold you back from making your dreams a reality? Emily... Today with Emily King: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What money story are you’re playing in your head? Does it open you up to opportunities and building a successful business or does it hold you back from making your dreams a reality? Emily King, of The Rich Woman, walks through how to discover our money personality and detox ourselves from negative money talk so we can start living a life of abundance and opportunity. Pick it apart: [16:10] Emily explains what money mindset is.   [25:20] Emily shares how her money mindset was shaped by her childhood.   [34:11] Emily explains the money personality archetypes.   [47:14] Emily shares some things you can do on your own to recognize and overcome your money blocks.   [51:07] LuAnn tells how she prepared her daughters to be able to support themselves no matter what. LuAnn and Emily King’s Ah-Ha moments: “We get to rewrite our money story to a more empowering one.” - Emily King More About Emily King: Emily King is a wealth & abundance coach for entrepreneurial women and the founder of The Rich Woman signature coaching program. Since 2015 she’s worked with 100’s of women to help them create a loving relationship with money so they can massively increase their income and impact. Armed with an MBA and certifications as an NLP practitioner, timeline therapist and pilates instructor (yes--all those things!), Emily brings the perfect mix of manifesting-woo and business chops to the table to help women across the world live their best ‘Rich Woman’ lives - a life of financial freedom, fulfillment and fun.   Connect with Emily King: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com. Today with Emily King:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. What money story are you’re playing in your head? Does it open you up to opportunities and building a successful business or does it hold you back from making your dreams a reality? Emily King, of The Rich Woman, walks through how to discover our money personality and detox ourselves from negative money talk so we can start living a life of abundance and opportunity.

Pick it apart:

[16:10] Emily explains what money mindset is.

 

[25:20] Emily shares how her money mindset was shaped by her childhood.

 

[34:11] Emily explains the money personality archetypes.

 

[47:14] Emily shares some things you can do on your own to recognize and overcome your money blocks.

 

[51:07] LuAnn tells how she prepared her daughters to be able to support themselves no matter what.

LuAnn and Emily King’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We get to rewrite our money story to a more empowering one.” - Emily King

More About Emily King:

Emily King is a wealth & abundance coach for entrepreneurial women and the founder of The Rich Woman signature coaching program. Since 2015 she’s worked with 100’s of women to help them create a loving relationship with money so they can massively increase their income and impact. Armed with an MBA and certifications as an NLP practitioner, timeline therapist and pilates instructor (yes--all those things!), Emily brings the perfect mix of manifesting-woo and business chops to the table to help women across the world live their best ‘Rich Woman’ lives - a life of financial freedom, fulfillment and fun.

 

Connect with Emily King:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods is a designer-focused supplier of premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Through their Pro Account Program, designers become flooring experts and are empowered to advise clients on the flooring that works best for their lifestyle. Learn more by going to RevelWoods.com.

]]> 4395 no 689: Melinda Marquardt: The Ideals You Need to Thrive in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/melinda-marquardt-the-ideals-you-need-to-thrive-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Melinda Marquardt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Melinda Marquardt of the Vale London, a line of exquisite textiles and wallpapers for the luxury interiors market. Melinda struck out on her own after years in the corporate world, determined to lean on her creativity and passion to fuel her business. She buckled down, learned the business side, and figured out how to thrive. Today, she’s sharing what she believes entrepreneurs need to remember to succeed! Pick it apart: [2:17] Melinda shares her story and discusses why believing in yourself is a staple in running your own business. [16:28] Melinda talks about the difficulties in learning the business side of things and figuring out how to make a profit from what you love.  [25:09] LuAnn and Melinda discuss the importance of finding your values and sticking to them.  [31:44] LuAnn and Melinda talk about imposter syndrome and risk when starting a business.  [42:46] Melinda shares what it means to never stop being inspired. LuAnn and Melinda Marquardt’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you keep trying new things and keep trying as hard as you can and working as hard as you can, things will come together. That’s how I feel about trying the business side of things and figuring out the art side of things. You just learn a lot, and everything will come together.” -Melinda   “Somebody else might be thinking about designing for it to be marketable, but what you’re saying is when you have the experience of having traveled the world within the business of textiles, you understand inherently that there’s a market somewhere. It might not be the zip code you’re living in, but in order to design true to yourself and to design something that’s truly beautiful, you have to design what you love.” -LuAnn   “I want to stay true and focused to the vision of my company and my artwork.” -Melinda   “The risk isn’t just the money on the line, the risk is that you can show up and do the hard things, and if you don’t have the stomach for that you’re not going to run a successful business.” -LuAnn Connect with Melinda Marquardt: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.    Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #628 Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business   #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count Tue, 27 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Melinda Marquardt: The Ideals You Need to Thrive in Your Interior Design Business full 689 LuAnn Nigara Today with Melinda Marquardt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Melinda Marquardt of the Vale London, a line of exquisite textiles and wallpapers for the luxury interiors market. Melinda struck out on her own after years in... Today with Melinda Marquardt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Melinda Marquardt of the Vale London, a line of exquisite textiles and wallpapers for the luxury interiors market. Melinda struck out on her own after years in the corporate world, determined to lean on her creativity and passion to fuel her business. She buckled down, learned the business side, and figured out how to thrive. Today, she’s sharing what she believes entrepreneurs need to remember to succeed! Pick it apart: [2:17] Melinda shares her story and discusses why believing in yourself is a staple in running your own business. [16:28] Melinda talks about the difficulties in learning the business side of things and figuring out how to make a profit from what you love.  [25:09] LuAnn and Melinda discuss the importance of finding your values and sticking to them.  [31:44] LuAnn and Melinda talk about imposter syndrome and risk when starting a business.  [42:46] Melinda shares what it means to never stop being inspired. LuAnn and Melinda Marquardt’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you keep trying new things and keep trying as hard as you can and working as hard as you can, things will come together. That’s how I feel about trying the business side of things and figuring out the art side of things. You just learn a lot, and everything will come together.” -Melinda   “Somebody else might be thinking about designing for it to be marketable, but what you’re saying is when you have the experience of having traveled the world within the business of textiles, you understand inherently that there’s a market somewhere. It might not be the zip code you’re living in, but in order to design true to yourself and to design something that’s truly beautiful, you have to design what you love.” -LuAnn   “I want to stay true and focused to the vision of my company and my artwork.” -Melinda   “The risk isn’t just the money on the line, the risk is that you can show up and do the hard things, and if you don’t have the stomach for that you’re not going to run a successful business.” -LuAnn Connect with Melinda Marquardt: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.    Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #628 Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business   #47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count Today with Melinda Marquardt:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Melinda Marquardt of the Vale London, a line of exquisite textiles and wallpapers for the luxury interiors market. Melinda struck out on her own after years in the corporate world, determined to lean on her creativity and passion to fuel her business. She buckled down, learned the business side, and figured out how to thrive. Today, she’s sharing what she believes entrepreneurs need to remember to succeed!

Pick it apart:

  • [2:17] Melinda shares her story and discusses why believing in yourself is a staple in running your own business.
  • [16:28] Melinda talks about the difficulties in learning the business side of things and figuring out how to make a profit from what you love. 
  • [25:09] LuAnn and Melinda discuss the importance of finding your values and sticking to them. 
  • [31:44] LuAnn and Melinda talk about imposter syndrome and risk when starting a business. 
  • [42:46] Melinda shares what it means to never stop being inspired.

LuAnn and Melinda Marquardt’s Ah-Ha moments:

“If you keep trying new things and keep trying as hard as you can and working as hard as you can, things will come together. That’s how I feel about trying the business side of things and figuring out the art side of things. You just learn a lot, and everything will come together.” -Melinda

 

“Somebody else might be thinking about designing for it to be marketable, but what you’re saying is when you have the experience of having traveled the world within the business of textiles, you understand inherently that there’s a market somewhere. It might not be the zip code you’re living in, but in order to design true to yourself and to design something that’s truly beautiful, you have to design what you love.” -LuAnn

 

“I want to stay true and focused to the vision of my company and my artwork.” -Melinda

 

“The risk isn’t just the money on the line, the risk is that you can show up and do the hard things, and if you don’t have the stomach for that you’re not going to run a successful business.” -LuAnn

Connect with Melinda Marquardt:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Not only does it offer a workflow software to keep your projects organized from beginning to end, but it also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. 

 

Kirsch: Kirsch is your source for custom drapery hardware and window coverings. With a history of innovation and extensive industry knowledge, Kirsch can set you up with what you need for your next project. Visit kirsch.com to learn more.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#628 Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business

 

#47 Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count

]]> 3728 no 688: Power Talk Friday: Patricia Lohan: Feng Shui’s Power to Propel You Forward http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/688-power-talk-friday-patricia-lohan-feng-shuis-power-to-propel-you-forward Today with Patricia Lohan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Feng Shui expert, Patricia Lohan shares how you can clear your home and office of subconscious obstructions so you can provide space for opportunities and prosperity to flow. Learn how to intentionally filter your environment, analyze your art and position your desk for success. Pick it apart: [28:32] Patricia shares her perception of Feng Shui in comparison to an iceberg    [32:02] Patricia explains the importance of the art you choose for your spaces   [41:12] LuAnn and Patricia talk about what to do with objects in your space that you don’t love   [46:20] Patricia explains how she assesses the energy of a house LuAnn and  Patricia Lohan's Ah-Ha moments: “Feng Shui is acupuncture for your home.” - Patricia Lohan   “I love the idea of making your home become a vision board of where you are going.” - Patricia Lohan More About Patricia Lohan: Patricia Lohan is the creator of Feng Shui Mastery and Author of The Happy Home: A Guide To Creating A Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Life. Patricia Lohan helps women make their home magnetic to money, luck, and blessings. She shows you what they don't teach in school, what lies between the lines, your top secret tool for success. She is a feng shui expert, a healer, and a passionate female entrepreneur who has shaped her dream life living in Bali with her husband. Patricia has a gift at making feng shui simple and easy to understand and implement. She has helped thousands of people across the globe embrace feng shui and create lasting changes in their homes, lives, and businesses. Patricia has seen firsthand the power of the mind, surroundings, and inner healing, clearing and aligning everything so it works holistically.   Connect with Patricia Lohan: Website Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest   Twitter Youtube  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Big thanks to both Revel Woods and Mydoma Studio for sponsoring the show and for sponsoring our upcoming High Point Market activities. Revel Woods will be sponsoring our Thursday night get together on October 14, 2021 in High Point. This will be free and open to all. Just a little bonus fun night, especially if you are coming in on Thursday to be here for Power Talk Friday the next day.  Join me, many of my LuAnn University instructors. and my co-authors from both Power Talk Friday Expert books! RSVP here The Power Talk Friday High Point Tour is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Revel Woods.  Both Sarah Daniele and John Dupra will be with us for the celebration dinner after an intense day working, brainstorming, learning and creating between the workshop sessions, the round table coaching sessions and all the things in between. Please go see how each of these companies can help you be more efficient, more profitable and be a better business owner. mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and revelwoods.com Fri, 23 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Patricia Lohan: Feng Shui’s Power to Propel You Forward full 688 LuAnn Nigara Today with Patricia Lohan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Feng Shui expert, Patricia Lohan shares how you can clear your home and office of subconscious obstructions so you can provide space for opportunities and... Today with Patricia Lohan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Feng Shui expert, Patricia Lohan shares how you can clear your home and office of subconscious obstructions so you can provide space for opportunities and prosperity to flow. Learn how to intentionally filter your environment, analyze your art and position your desk for success. Pick it apart: [28:32] Patricia shares her perception of Feng Shui in comparison to an iceberg    [32:02] Patricia explains the importance of the art you choose for your spaces   [41:12] LuAnn and Patricia talk about what to do with objects in your space that you don’t love   [46:20] Patricia explains how she assesses the energy of a house LuAnn and  Patricia Lohan's Ah-Ha moments: “Feng Shui is acupuncture for your home.” - Patricia Lohan   “I love the idea of making your home become a vision board of where you are going.” - Patricia Lohan More About Patricia Lohan: Patricia Lohan is the creator of Feng Shui Mastery and Author of The Happy Home: A Guide To Creating A Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Life. Patricia Lohan helps women make their home magnetic to money, luck, and blessings. She shows you what they don't teach in school, what lies between the lines, your top secret tool for success. She is a feng shui expert, a healer, and a passionate female entrepreneur who has shaped her dream life living in Bali with her husband. Patricia has a gift at making feng shui simple and easy to understand and implement. She has helped thousands of people across the globe embrace feng shui and create lasting changes in their homes, lives, and businesses. Patricia has seen firsthand the power of the mind, surroundings, and inner healing, clearing and aligning everything so it works holistically.   Connect with Patricia Lohan: Website Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest   Twitter Youtube  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Big thanks to both Revel Woods and Mydoma Studio for sponsoring the show and for sponsoring our upcoming High Point Market activities. Revel Woods will be sponsoring our Thursday night get together on October 14, 2021 in High Point. This will be free and open to all. Just a little bonus fun night, especially if you are coming in on Thursday to be here for Power Talk Friday the next day.  Join me, many of my LuAnn University instructors. and my co-authors from both Power Talk Friday Expert books! RSVP here The Power Talk Friday High Point Tour is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Revel Woods.  Both Sarah Daniele and John Dupra will be with us for the celebration dinner after an intense day working, brainstorming, learning and creating between the workshop sessions, the round table coaching sessions and all the things in between. Please go see how each of these companies can help you be more efficient, more profitable and be a better business owner. mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and revelwoods.com Today with Patricia Lohan:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Feng Shui expert, Patricia Lohan shares how you can clear your home and office of subconscious obstructions so you can provide space for opportunities and prosperity to flow. Learn how to intentionally filter your environment, analyze your art and position your desk for success.

Pick it apart:

[28:32] Patricia shares her perception of Feng Shui in comparison to an iceberg 

 

[32:02] Patricia explains the importance of the art you choose for your spaces

 

[41:12] LuAnn and Patricia talk about what to do with objects in your space that you don’t love

 

[46:20] Patricia explains how she assesses the energy of a house

LuAnn and  Patricia Lohan's Ah-Ha moments:

“Feng Shui is acupuncture for your home.” - Patricia Lohan

 

“I love the idea of making your home become a vision board of where you are going.” - Patricia Lohan

More About Patricia Lohan:

Patricia Lohan is the creator of Feng Shui Mastery and Author of The Happy Home: A Guide To Creating A Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Life. Patricia Lohan helps women make their home magnetic to money, luck, and blessings. She shows you what they don't teach in school, what lies between the lines, your top secret tool for success. She is a feng shui expert, a healer, and a passionate female entrepreneur who has shaped her dream life living in Bali with her husband. Patricia has a gift at making feng shui simple and easy to understand and implement.

She has helped thousands of people across the globe embrace feng shui and create lasting changes in their homes, lives, and businesses. Patricia has seen firsthand the power of the mind, surroundings, and inner healing, clearing and aligning everything so it works holistically.

 

Connect with Patricia Lohan:

Website

Instagram  

Facebook 

Pinterest  

Twitter

Youtube 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Big thanks to both Revel Woods and Mydoma Studio for sponsoring the show and for sponsoring our upcoming High Point Market activities. Revel Woods will be sponsoring our Thursday night get together on October 14, 2021 in High Point. This will be free and open to all. Just a little bonus fun night, especially if you are coming in on Thursday to be here for Power Talk Friday the next day.  Join me, many of my LuAnn University instructors. and my co-authors from both Power Talk Friday Expert books! RSVP here

The Power Talk Friday High Point Tour is sponsored by Mydoma Studio and Revel Woods.  Both Sarah Daniele and John Dupra will be with us for the celebration dinner after an intense day working, brainstorming, learning and creating between the workshop sessions, the round table coaching sessions and all the things in between. Please go see how each of these companies can help you be more efficient, more profitable and be a better business owner. mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and revelwoods.com

]]> 4380 no 687: Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/687-demetrius-robinson-show-up-do-the-work Today with Demetrius Robinson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Demetrius Robinson, full-service luxury interior designer and lifestyle brand pro behind At Home With Savvy, shares his secret sauce for Instagram success. Demetrius chats about why he recently rebranded, how he approaches his online community, and how he hacks the occasional lack of motivation. Pick it apart: [9:58] Demetrius gives an overview of how he selects brands he represents   [22:30] Demetrius explains how he meshes his DIY community and his luxury clients   [30:10] LuAnn and Demetrius discuss the importance of tone and language choice on social and with clients   [36:12] Demetrius talks about why and how he rebranded   [49:17] Demetrius shares his process for creating content   LuAnn and Demetrius Robinson’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s about not just being present, it’s about being sure of what you’re there to do.” - Demetrius Robinson   “Our reputation is all we have.” - Demetrius Robinson   “I lean on discipline rather than motivation.” - Demetrius Robinson More About Demetrius Robinson: Demetrius is an Indianapolis based Interior Designer, Content Creator and founder of At Home With Savvy, a home lifestyle brand that's dedicated to inspiring others to live a more elevated home lifestyle. He founded his interior design business in 2016 and recently began creating design and lifestyle content online at the start of the global pandemic in March of 2020. In just one short year he's grown his Instagram account from 6k-94k followers by implementing a strong and unique social media strategy. With the growth of his online platform, he's had the opportunity to partner with brands such as Spotify, NEST Fragrances, Home Depot to name a few. Connect with Demetrius Robinson: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 20 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work full 687 LuAnn Nigara Today with Demetrius Robinson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Demetrius Robinson, full-service luxury interior designer and lifestyle brand pro behind At Home With Savvy, shares his secret sauce for Instagram success. Demetrius chats about why... Today with Demetrius Robinson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Demetrius Robinson, full-service luxury interior designer and lifestyle brand pro behind At Home With Savvy, shares his secret sauce for Instagram success. Demetrius chats about why he recently rebranded, how he approaches his online community, and how he hacks the occasional lack of motivation. Pick it apart: [9:58] Demetrius gives an overview of how he selects brands he represents   [22:30] Demetrius explains how he meshes his DIY community and his luxury clients   [30:10] LuAnn and Demetrius discuss the importance of tone and language choice on social and with clients   [36:12] Demetrius talks about why and how he rebranded   [49:17] Demetrius shares his process for creating content   LuAnn and Demetrius Robinson’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s about not just being present, it’s about being sure of what you’re there to do.” - Demetrius Robinson   “Our reputation is all we have.” - Demetrius Robinson   “I lean on discipline rather than motivation.” - Demetrius Robinson More About Demetrius Robinson: Demetrius is an Indianapolis based Interior Designer, Content Creator and founder of At Home With Savvy, a home lifestyle brand that's dedicated to inspiring others to live a more elevated home lifestyle. He founded his interior design business in 2016 and recently began creating design and lifestyle content online at the start of the global pandemic in March of 2020. In just one short year he's grown his Instagram account from 6k-94k followers by implementing a strong and unique social media strategy. With the growth of his online platform, he's had the opportunity to partner with brands such as Spotify, NEST Fragrances, Home Depot to name a few. Connect with Demetrius Robinson: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today with Demetrius Robinson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Demetrius Robinson, full-service luxury interior designer and lifestyle brand pro behind At Home With Savvy, shares his secret sauce for Instagram success. Demetrius chats about why he recently rebranded, how he approaches his online community, and how he hacks the occasional lack of motivation.

Pick it apart:

[9:58] Demetrius gives an overview of how he selects brands he represents

 

[22:30] Demetrius explains how he meshes his DIY community and his luxury clients

 

[30:10] LuAnn and Demetrius discuss the importance of tone and language choice on social and with clients

 

[36:12] Demetrius talks about why and how he rebranded

 

[49:17] Demetrius shares his process for creating content

 

LuAnn and Demetrius Robinson’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s about not just being present, it’s about being sure of what you’re there to do.” - Demetrius Robinson

 

“Our reputation is all we have.” - Demetrius Robinson

 

“I lean on discipline rather than motivation.” - Demetrius Robinson

More About Demetrius Robinson:

Demetrius is an Indianapolis based Interior Designer, Content Creator and founder of At Home With Savvy, a home lifestyle brand that's dedicated to inspiring others to live a more elevated home lifestyle. He founded his interior design business in 2016 and recently began creating design and lifestyle content online at the start of the global pandemic in March of 2020. In just one short year he's grown his Instagram account from 6k-94k followers by implementing a strong and unique social media strategy. With the growth of his online platform, he's had the opportunity to partner with brands such as Spotify, NEST Fragrances, Home Depot to name a few.

Connect with Demetrius Robinson:

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4500 no 686: Flashback Friday: Studio Thomas: Finding Clarity on the Brand and Culture of Her Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/686-flashback-friday-studio-thomas-finding-clarity-on-the-brand-and-culture-of-her-interior-design-firm On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this week’s Flashback Friday, we’re taking a look back at episode 314 with Kristen Thomas of Studio Thomas.  Like many designers, Kristen started her business taking on any work that came her way. But four years in, she wanted to gain clarity on the experience she wanted to create, the clients she wanted to work with, and the philosophy she wanted to connect with as she approached projects. She made the decision to niche down and gain clarity. The results spoke for themselves. Pick it apart: [6:16] Kristen shares how she transitioned out of taking every job that came her way by focusing on her work and her reputation.  [16:07] Kristen and LuAnn discuss the importance of creating the right culture through your staff and hiring process. [25:19] Kristen discusses the revamp in her business and the results that it brought. [38:22] Kristen shares her process for rebranding and how it influenced every decision she made in her business. LuAnn and Kristen’s Ah-Ha moments: “It was a pure faith thing. We just said we have to believe in ourselves and work hard. For me, there was no option of failure. It just wasn’t even an option, because for me, I was going to work so hard and treat everybody so good, and get my reputation where I felt like it was strong enough where I could ride forward on that reputation and get better and better jobs.” -Kristen Thomas   “When you look at Studio Thomas, when you look at your Instagram, when you look at your website, and you are a designer that maybe is in business one or two years, or maybe a designer that’s in business seven, eight, or 15 years, and you’re not doing that type of work, it’s very easy to be down on yourself and think ‘Oh my goodness, what am I doing wrong? How do I get there? Why don’t I know how to do that?’ But to hear how hard it was for you—that doesn’t come through on Instagram.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I never planned on being a leader. I never planned on being a boss. Never. I was going to be an interior designer and I thought that’s what I was going to do. And the more people we got on our team, the more I thought, ‘I got to learn to be a leader.’” -Kristen Thomas   “It’s like a tug-of-war. If you have a client who doesn’t think the same kind of things that you’re thinking, you literally feel like you’re going back and forth like a tug-of-war. It’s not flowing well. It’s not fun for them. It’s not fun for you, and you don’t want to do that. You want your highest contribution, and you want to be the very best at what you do.” -Kristen Thomas More About Kristen Thomas Kristen is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas. Her career started in real estate, where the world of home building eventually led her to study interior design. With nearly 20 years in the industry, her education pairs with experience to create a refined expertise in designing and building homes. Since founding her firm in 2013, Kristen has worked on a wide variety of projects, each unique in size, scope, and style. Her aesthetic is clean and modern, focusing on the power of architecture, simplicity, and texture. Her design method is one that elevates your own style, while adding value to your home and depth to its story.  Connect with Kristen Thomas Website  Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch: Kirsch is the leader in drapery hardware. Their Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!    Other Shows Mentioned:  #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design   #606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business   Fri, 16 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Studio Thomas: Finding Clarity on the Brand and Culture of Her Interior Design Firm full 686 LuAnn Nigara On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this week’s Flashback Friday, we’re taking a look back at episode 314 with Kristen Thomas of Studio Thomas.  Like many designers, Kristen started her business taking on any... On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this week’s Flashback Friday, we’re taking a look back at episode 314 with Kristen Thomas of Studio Thomas.  Like many designers, Kristen started her business taking on any work that came her way. But four years in, she wanted to gain clarity on the experience she wanted to create, the clients she wanted to work with, and the philosophy she wanted to connect with as she approached projects. She made the decision to niche down and gain clarity. The results spoke for themselves. Pick it apart: [6:16] Kristen shares how she transitioned out of taking every job that came her way by focusing on her work and her reputation.  [16:07] Kristen and LuAnn discuss the importance of creating the right culture through your staff and hiring process. [25:19] Kristen discusses the revamp in her business and the results that it brought. [38:22] Kristen shares her process for rebranding and how it influenced every decision she made in her business. LuAnn and Kristen’s Ah-Ha moments: “It was a pure faith thing. We just said we have to believe in ourselves and work hard. For me, there was no option of failure. It just wasn’t even an option, because for me, I was going to work so hard and treat everybody so good, and get my reputation where I felt like it was strong enough where I could ride forward on that reputation and get better and better jobs.” -Kristen Thomas   “When you look at Studio Thomas, when you look at your Instagram, when you look at your website, and you are a designer that maybe is in business one or two years, or maybe a designer that’s in business seven, eight, or 15 years, and you’re not doing that type of work, it’s very easy to be down on yourself and think ‘Oh my goodness, what am I doing wrong? How do I get there? Why don’t I know how to do that?’ But to hear how hard it was for you—that doesn’t come through on Instagram.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I never planned on being a leader. I never planned on being a boss. Never. I was going to be an interior designer and I thought that’s what I was going to do. And the more people we got on our team, the more I thought, ‘I got to learn to be a leader.’” -Kristen Thomas   “It’s like a tug-of-war. If you have a client who doesn’t think the same kind of things that you’re thinking, you literally feel like you’re going back and forth like a tug-of-war. It’s not flowing well. It’s not fun for them. It’s not fun for you, and you don’t want to do that. You want your highest contribution, and you want to be the very best at what you do.” -Kristen Thomas More About Kristen Thomas Kristen is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas. Her career started in real estate, where the world of home building eventually led her to study interior design. With nearly 20 years in the industry, her education pairs with experience to create a refined expertise in designing and building homes. Since founding her firm in 2013, Kristen has worked on a wide variety of projects, each unique in size, scope, and style. Her aesthetic is clean and modern, focusing on the power of architecture, simplicity, and texture. Her design method is one that elevates your own style, while adding value to your home and depth to its story.  Connect with Kristen Thomas Website  Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch: Kirsch is the leader in drapery hardware. Their Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!    Other Shows Mentioned:  #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients   #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design   #606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On this week’s Flashback Friday, we’re taking a look back at episode 314 with Kristen Thomas of Studio Thomas. 

Like many designers, Kristen started her business taking on any work that came her way. But four years in, she wanted to gain clarity on the experience she wanted to create, the clients she wanted to work with, and the philosophy she wanted to connect with as she approached projects. She made the decision to niche down and gain clarity. The results spoke for themselves.

Pick it apart:
  • [6:16] Kristen shares how she transitioned out of taking every job that came her way by focusing on her work and her reputation. 
  • [16:07] Kristen and LuAnn discuss the importance of creating the right culture through your staff and hiring process.
  • [25:19] Kristen discusses the revamp in her business and the results that it brought.
  • [38:22] Kristen shares her process for rebranding and how it influenced every decision she made in her business.
LuAnn and Kristen’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It was a pure faith thing. We just said we have to believe in ourselves and work hard. For me, there was no option of failure. It just wasn’t even an option, because for me, I was going to work so hard and treat everybody so good, and get my reputation where I felt like it was strong enough where I could ride forward on that reputation and get better and better jobs.” -Kristen Thomas

 

“When you look at Studio Thomas, when you look at your Instagram, when you look at your website, and you are a designer that maybe is in business one or two years, or maybe a designer that’s in business seven, eight, or 15 years, and you’re not doing that type of work, it’s very easy to be down on yourself and think ‘Oh my goodness, what am I doing wrong? How do I get there? Why don’t I know how to do that?’ But to hear how hard it was for you—that doesn’t come through on Instagram.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I never planned on being a leader. I never planned on being a boss. Never. I was going to be an interior designer and I thought that’s what I was going to do. And the more people we got on our team, the more I thought, ‘I got to learn to be a leader.’” -Kristen Thomas

 

“It’s like a tug-of-war. If you have a client who doesn’t think the same kind of things that you’re thinking, you literally feel like you’re going back and forth like a tug-of-war. It’s not flowing well. It’s not fun for them. It’s not fun for you, and you don’t want to do that. You want your highest contribution, and you want to be the very best at what you do.” -Kristen Thomas

More About Kristen Thomas Kristen is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas. Her career started in real estate, where the world of home building eventually led her to study interior design. With nearly 20 years in the industry, her education pairs with experience to create a refined expertise in designing and building homes. Since founding her firm in 2013, Kristen has worked on a wide variety of projects, each unique in size, scope, and style. Her aesthetic is clean and modern, focusing on the power of architecture, simplicity, and texture. Her design method is one that elevates your own style, while adding value to your home and depth to its story.  Connect with Kristen Thomas

Website 

Instagram 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch: Kirsch is the leader in drapery hardware. Their Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more! 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

 

#256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

 

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

 

#606 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business

 

]]> 3745 no 685: WWLD? Finding the Funds to Invest in my Interior Design Business. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/685-wwld-finding-the-funds-to-invest-in-my-interior-design-business Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with where to find the funds to invest in their business. I say it all the time, we all have our superpowers. Today, I lean into this idea in the sense that running a business takes a village. You are not going to be the best at everything. To run our business, it takes a dream team. Start to assemble yours. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned  #375 Lisa Gilmore #484 Laurence Carr #349, #564 Peter Lang Tue, 13 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 WWLD? Finding the Funds to Invest in my Interior Design Business. full 685 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with where to find the funds to invest in their business. I say it all the time, we all have our... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with where to find the funds to invest in their business. I say it all the time, we all have our superpowers. Today, I lean into this idea in the sense that running a business takes a village. You are not going to be the best at everything. To run our business, it takes a dream team. Start to assemble yours. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned  #375 Lisa Gilmore #484 Laurence Carr #349, #564 Peter Lang Today on A Well-Designed Business:

Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with where to find the funds to invest in their business. I say it all the time, we all have our superpowers. Today, I lean into this idea in the sense that running a business takes a village. You are not going to be the best at everything. To run our business, it takes a dream team. Start to assemble yours.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Windowworksnj.com

Shop38east.com

Comfortex.com

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned 

#375 Lisa Gilmore

#484 Laurence Carr

#349, #564 Peter Lang

]]> 1709 no 684: Power Talk Friday: Ethan Beute of BombBomb: Using Video to Share Your Amazing Self http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/684-power-talk-friday-ethan-beute-of-bombbomb-using-video-to-share-your-amazing-self   Today with Ethan Beute: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Ethan Beute, Chief Evangelist at BombBomb shares how a simple video tool can be used to differentiate yourself and showcase the best sales asset you have - yourself! Learn the framework for creating a video response to web inquiries and walk with Ethan as he shares how you can use video in the place of email and text. Pick it apart: [18:49] Ethan reviews when one would send video vs. email/text.   [26:05] LuAnn summarized where interior designers can use BombBomb in their business   [31:25] Ethan addresses common objections to using video for web-lead follow up   [48:20] LuAnn recaps how BombBomb is different from highly produced marketing videos LuAnn and Ethan Beute’s Ah-Ha moments: “We can build this psychological proximity to people. It’s the same reason that for decades people felt close to the television news anchor.” - Ethan Beute   “People will feel closer to you when you are in front of them.” - Ethan Beute   “All any of us wants is to feel seen, heard, appreciated, and understood.” - Ethan Beute More About Ethan Beute: Chief Evangelist at BombBomb, coauthor of Rehumanize Your Business, and host of The Customer Experience Podcast, Ethan has spent the past decade helping business professionals be more personal and human through simple video messages. He’s sent more than 12,000 videos himself. He also spent a dozen years leading marketing teams inside local television stations in Chicago, Grand Rapids, and Colorado Springs. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan and UCCS in communication, psychology, and marketing. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and son. Connect with Ethan Beute and BombBomb: Website  Instagram Facebook   LinkedIn Book Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.   Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Fri, 09 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ethan Beute of BombBomb: Using Video to Share Your Amazing Self full 684 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Ethan Beute: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Ethan Beute, Chief Evangelist at BombBomb shares how a simple video tool can be used to differentiate yourself and showcase the best sales asset you have - yourself! Learn the...   Today with Ethan Beute: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Ethan Beute, Chief Evangelist at BombBomb shares how a simple video tool can be used to differentiate yourself and showcase the best sales asset you have - yourself! Learn the framework for creating a video response to web inquiries and walk with Ethan as he shares how you can use video in the place of email and text. Pick it apart: [18:49] Ethan reviews when one would send video vs. email/text.   [26:05] LuAnn summarized where interior designers can use BombBomb in their business   [31:25] Ethan addresses common objections to using video for web-lead follow up   [48:20] LuAnn recaps how BombBomb is different from highly produced marketing videos LuAnn and Ethan Beute’s Ah-Ha moments: “We can build this psychological proximity to people. It’s the same reason that for decades people felt close to the television news anchor.” - Ethan Beute   “People will feel closer to you when you are in front of them.” - Ethan Beute   “All any of us wants is to feel seen, heard, appreciated, and understood.” - Ethan Beute More About Ethan Beute: Chief Evangelist at BombBomb, coauthor of Rehumanize Your Business, and host of The Customer Experience Podcast, Ethan has spent the past decade helping business professionals be more personal and human through simple video messages. He’s sent more than 12,000 videos himself. He also spent a dozen years leading marketing teams inside local television stations in Chicago, Grand Rapids, and Colorado Springs. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan and UCCS in communication, psychology, and marketing. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and son. Connect with Ethan Beute and BombBomb: Website  Instagram Facebook   LinkedIn Book Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.   Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Ethan Beute, Chief Evangelist at BombBomb shares how a simple video tool can be used to differentiate yourself and showcase the best sales asset you have - yourself! Learn the framework for creating a video response to web inquiries and walk with Ethan as he shares how you can use video in the place of email and text.

Pick it apart:

[18:49] Ethan reviews when one would send video vs. email/text.

 

[26:05] LuAnn summarized where interior designers can use BombBomb in their business

 

[31:25] Ethan addresses common objections to using video for web-lead follow up

 

[48:20] LuAnn recaps how BombBomb is different from highly produced marketing videos

LuAnn and Ethan Beute’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We can build this psychological proximity to people. It’s the same reason that for decades people felt close to the television news anchor.” - Ethan Beute

 

“People will feel closer to you when you are in front of them.” - Ethan Beute

 

“All any of us wants is to feel seen, heard, appreciated, and understood.” - Ethan Beute

More About Ethan Beute:

Chief Evangelist at BombBomb, coauthor of Rehumanize Your Business, and host of The Customer Experience Podcast, Ethan has spent the past decade helping business professionals be more personal and human through simple video messages. He’s sent more than 12,000 videos himself. He also spent a dozen years leading marketing teams inside local television stations in Chicago, Grand Rapids, and Colorado Springs. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan and UCCS in communication, psychology, and marketing. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and son.

Connect with Ethan Beute and BombBomb:

Website 

Instagram

Facebook  

LinkedIn

Book

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.

 

Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.

 

Other shows mentioned:

#616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients

]]> 4877 no 683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/683-jessica-matteson-the-client-experience-is-1-in-design Today with Jessica Matteson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business. Pick it apart: 14:28 Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail 18:12 Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project 22:78 Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products 26:20 Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method 34:28 Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept 41:20 Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one 52:30 Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” - Jessica Matteson   “Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” - Jessica Matteson   “Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” - Jessica Matteson   “You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement) More About Jessica Matteson: Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients' unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants.   Jessica's work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State. Connect with Jessica Matteson: Website Instagram  LinkedIn  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods first serves designers through product education - so designers can bring the flooring expertise and product directly to the client. Find out more about how you can benefit from including Revel Woods on your next project by going to RevelWoods.com.   Tue, 06 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design full 683 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Matteson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her... Today with Jessica Matteson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business. Pick it apart: 14:28 Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail 18:12 Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project 22:78 Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products 26:20 Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method 34:28 Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept 41:20 Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one 52:30 Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” - Jessica Matteson   “Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” - Jessica Matteson   “Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” - Jessica Matteson   “You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement) More About Jessica Matteson: Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients' unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants.   Jessica's work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State. Connect with Jessica Matteson: Website Instagram  LinkedIn  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods first serves designers through product education - so designers can bring the flooring expertise and product directly to the client. Find out more about how you can benefit from including Revel Woods on your next project by going to RevelWoods.com.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Jessica Matteson started her business with lots of experience but little time and money to invest in getting Jessica Matteson Landscape Architecture off the ground. Jessica shares her journey from starting with just $35 in advertising postcards to running a successful luxury landscape architecture business.

Pick it apart:

14:28 Jessica shares her onboarding process in detail

18:12 Jessica gives a tip on how to handle a client introducing new wants in the middle of a project

22:78 Jessica shares how she broadens the scope of projects to include additional products

26:20 Jessica shares how she used to do her discovery process and the benefits of conducting it with her new method

34:28 Jessica tells the story about how she invented her one-day service concept

41:20 Jessica shares her simple marketing strategy she’s used since day one

52:30 Jessica tells about her early years and the mantra that got her through

LuAnn and Jessica Matteson’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I’ve stopped converting people. I just look for people who are open to the message.” - Jessica Matteson

 

“Just do one thing. Don’t ever let yourself do nothing. Because the difference between something and nothing is everything.” - Jessica Matteson

 

“Just get ready for when the opportunity is fully available.” - Jessica Matteson

 

“You can’t work out hard enough in one day to achieve the body you want.” -LuAnn (paraphrasing Jessica’s statement)

More About Jessica Matteson:

Jessica Matteson is a landscape architect that believes in the great joys of life. She works with residential and select commercial clients to design landscapes and distinctive outdoor experiences. Using her signature discovery process, she identifies the special magic of each property and combines it with each clients' unique identity to create something one-of-a-kind and exceptional. By harnessing the nuances of light, sound, air movement, and perspective, as well as the subconscious psychology of plantings and materials, she tells an original story of a place and its inhabitants.

 

Jessica's work is influenced by travel to more than 20 countries to study all genre of landscapes and wild places. She has a Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of science in horticulture, both from Cornell University. Before opening MLA, she worked for highly respected firms in both the south and northeast as well as an organic design-build company in New York State.

Connect with Jessica Matteson:

Website

Instagram 

LinkedIn 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods first serves designers through product education - so designers can bring the flooring expertise and product directly to the client. Find out more about how you can benefit from including Revel Woods on your next project by going to RevelWoods.com.

 

]]> 4563 no 682: Flashback Friday: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/682-flashback-friday-laura-cliff-muller-four-point-design-build-firm On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re taking you back in time for another Flashback Friday, where we revisit some of our can’t-miss episodes from our archives.  Today’s flashback episode is Episode 441: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm.  Laura and Cliff have extensive experience in the design build industry. They know what it takes to create exquisite design build projects, the intricate details, legalities, and liabilities you have to face when you work in design build, and how best to launch your design build career.  Let’s revisit the episode and find out what it really takes to make it in design build. Pick it apart: [6:50] Laura and Cliff share the personal side of their business and how they celebrate all of their partners at the end of a successful project.  [16:36] Laura and Cliff dive into their four step process and how that leads to strong projects.  [19:19] LuAnn asks Laura and Cliff what advice they would give to new designers interested in the design build world.  [25:19] Cliff and Laura talk about the importance of experience and how to gain it as a newer designer.  [53:30] LuAnn, Laura, and Cliff discuss what to do when you encounter pushback from clients on larger projects. LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments: “It does take a village. I could never stand up and take credit for a project at the end of the line and say, ‘Hey, look at these pretty pictures. I’m the designer,’ because not any aspect of that project was done alone.” -Laura   “The idea is you’re starting a project from concept—the design, the plans, if it’s a renovation, the changes in the roof lines, the changes in how things are going to go together, the plumbing, the electrical—all of these things are important to coming up with the concept...Experience is very valuable and if you decide to do something in the design build setting, I believe you need to have some experience on the construction side to help facilitate your goal.” -Cliff   “The risk is so much higher here. We’re not moving furniture around and picking paint colors. That is scary enough and a risk of its own when you’re brand new. But this is not the same animal whatsoever.” -LuAnn   “The better step 1 gets frontloaded and the more details we have to inform step 2, 3, and 4, the better off we’re going to be, and then we don’t have to be overseeing the project on a day to day.” -Laura More About Laura & Cliff Muller Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Connect with Laura & Cliff Muller Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit www.revelwoods.com to get started. Fri, 02 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Flashback Friday: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm full 682 LuAnn Nigara On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re taking you back in time for another Flashback Friday, where we revisit some of our can’t-miss episodes from our archives.  Today’s flashback episode is Episode... On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re taking you back in time for another Flashback Friday, where we revisit some of our can’t-miss episodes from our archives.  Today’s flashback episode is Episode 441: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm.  Laura and Cliff have extensive experience in the design build industry. They know what it takes to create exquisite design build projects, the intricate details, legalities, and liabilities you have to face when you work in design build, and how best to launch your design build career.  Let’s revisit the episode and find out what it really takes to make it in design build. Pick it apart: [6:50] Laura and Cliff share the personal side of their business and how they celebrate all of their partners at the end of a successful project.  [16:36] Laura and Cliff dive into their four step process and how that leads to strong projects.  [19:19] LuAnn asks Laura and Cliff what advice they would give to new designers interested in the design build world.  [25:19] Cliff and Laura talk about the importance of experience and how to gain it as a newer designer.  [53:30] LuAnn, Laura, and Cliff discuss what to do when you encounter pushback from clients on larger projects. LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments: “It does take a village. I could never stand up and take credit for a project at the end of the line and say, ‘Hey, look at these pretty pictures. I’m the designer,’ because not any aspect of that project was done alone.” -Laura   “The idea is you’re starting a project from concept—the design, the plans, if it’s a renovation, the changes in the roof lines, the changes in how things are going to go together, the plumbing, the electrical—all of these things are important to coming up with the concept...Experience is very valuable and if you decide to do something in the design build setting, I believe you need to have some experience on the construction side to help facilitate your goal.” -Cliff   “The risk is so much higher here. We’re not moving furniture around and picking paint colors. That is scary enough and a risk of its own when you’re brand new. But this is not the same animal whatsoever.” -LuAnn   “The better step 1 gets frontloaded and the more details we have to inform step 2, 3, and 4, the better off we’re going to be, and then we don’t have to be overseeing the project on a day to day.” -Laura More About Laura & Cliff Muller Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Connect with Laura & Cliff Muller Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit www.revelwoods.com to get started. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re taking you back in time for another Flashback Friday, where we revisit some of our can’t-miss episodes from our archives. 

Today’s flashback episode is Episode 441: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm. 

Laura and Cliff have extensive experience in the design build industry. They know what it takes to create exquisite design build projects, the intricate details, legalities, and liabilities you have to face when you work in design build, and how best to launch your design build career. 

Let’s revisit the episode and find out what it really takes to make it in design build.

Pick it apart:

  • [6:50] Laura and Cliff share the personal side of their business and how they celebrate all of their partners at the end of a successful project. 

    [16:36] Laura and Cliff dive into their four step process and how that leads to strong projects. 

    [19:19] LuAnn asks Laura and Cliff what advice they would give to new designers interested in the design build world. 

    [25:19] Cliff and Laura talk about the importance of experience and how to gain it as a newer designer. 

    [53:30] LuAnn, Laura, and Cliff discuss what to do when you encounter pushback from clients on larger projects.

LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It does take a village. I could never stand up and take credit for a project at the end of the line and say, ‘Hey, look at these pretty pictures. I’m the designer,’ because not any aspect of that project was done alone.” -Laura

 

“The idea is you’re starting a project from concept—the design, the plans, if it’s a renovation, the changes in the roof lines, the changes in how things are going to go together, the plumbing, the electrical—all of these things are important to coming up with the concept...Experience is very valuable and if you decide to do something in the design build setting, I believe you need to have some experience on the construction side to help facilitate your goal.” -Cliff

 

“The risk is so much higher here. We’re not moving furniture around and picking paint colors. That is scary enough and a risk of its own when you’re brand new. But this is not the same animal whatsoever.” -LuAnn

 

“The better step 1 gets frontloaded and the more details we have to inform step 2, 3, and 4, the better off we’re going to be, and then we don’t have to be overseeing the project on a day to day.” -Laura

More About Laura & Cliff Muller

Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few.

Connect with Laura & Cliff Muller

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit www.revelwoods.com to get started.

]]> 4480 no 681: Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/681-paul-dashevsky-a-proven-process-for-vetting-contractors Today with Paul Dashevsky: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Joining me today is Paul Dashevsky. Paul along with Jon Grishpul, are the co-founders of GreatBuildz. Between the two, they have decades of experience in the real estate and construction industries. They’ve seen enough renovation nightmares that they decided it was enough, and they knew there had to be a better way. Today, Great Buildz is revolutionizing the industry and making life so much easier for designers, homeowners, and contractors all over Southern California where they are based. Paul is here to give us his best practices that you can use as you vet and interview contractors for your projects.  Get those notebooks out, smart ladies and gents! This is a pen and paper show! More About GreatBuildz: GreatBuildz is a completely free service that simplifies the home renovation and remodeling search by matching and connecting homeowners with reliable, thoroughly screened general contractors throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Founded by a team of real estate and construction professionals with multiple decades of experience, GreatBuildz matches and connects each client with up to three contractors that are individually selected for their specific project within 24 hours and stays by the client’s side from the initial call through the finished remodel. Through its meticulous 10-step vetting process, all GreatBuildz contractors go through an in-person interview, a background check, reference calls, online ratings, an insurance check, and a signed commitment to uphold a 20-point Code of Conduct. Connect with GreatBuildz: Website Instagram  Facebook  GreatBuildz Guide: Tips & Advice for a successful renovation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Big thank you to Mydoma Studio. If you are looking for the one place to manage your projects, your communication with clients and vendors, your invoicing, all the things, Mydoma Studio makes it easy for you all in one place. Go to Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.      Other Shows Mentioned:    Brad Leavitt #649 , #615 , #580 , #560 , #542   Jean Brownhil #422     Tue, 29 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors full 681 LuAnn Nigara Today with Paul Dashevsky: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Joining me today is Paul Dashevsky. Paul along with Jon Grishpul, are the co-founders of GreatBuildz. Between the two, they have decades of experience in the real estate and construction... Today with Paul Dashevsky: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Joining me today is Paul Dashevsky. Paul along with Jon Grishpul, are the co-founders of GreatBuildz. Between the two, they have decades of experience in the real estate and construction industries. They’ve seen enough renovation nightmares that they decided it was enough, and they knew there had to be a better way. Today, Great Buildz is revolutionizing the industry and making life so much easier for designers, homeowners, and contractors all over Southern California where they are based. Paul is here to give us his best practices that you can use as you vet and interview contractors for your projects.  Get those notebooks out, smart ladies and gents! This is a pen and paper show! More About GreatBuildz: GreatBuildz is a completely free service that simplifies the home renovation and remodeling search by matching and connecting homeowners with reliable, thoroughly screened general contractors throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Founded by a team of real estate and construction professionals with multiple decades of experience, GreatBuildz matches and connects each client with up to three contractors that are individually selected for their specific project within 24 hours and stays by the client’s side from the initial call through the finished remodel. Through its meticulous 10-step vetting process, all GreatBuildz contractors go through an in-person interview, a background check, reference calls, online ratings, an insurance check, and a signed commitment to uphold a 20-point Code of Conduct. Connect with GreatBuildz: Website Instagram  Facebook  GreatBuildz Guide: Tips & Advice for a successful renovation What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Big thank you to Mydoma Studio. If you are looking for the one place to manage your projects, your communication with clients and vendors, your invoicing, all the things, Mydoma Studio makes it easy for you all in one place. Go to Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.      Other Shows Mentioned:    Brad Leavitt #649 , #615 , #580 , #560 , #542   Jean Brownhil #422     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Joining me today is Paul Dashevsky. Paul along with Jon Grishpul, are the co-founders of GreatBuildz. Between the two, they have decades of experience in the real estate and construction industries. They’ve seen enough renovation nightmares that they decided it was enough, and they knew there had to be a better way. Today, Great Buildz is revolutionizing the industry and making life so much easier for designers, homeowners, and contractors all over Southern California where they are based. Paul is here to give us his best practices that you can use as you vet and interview contractors for your projects.  Get those notebooks out, smart ladies and gents! This is a pen and paper show!

More About GreatBuildz:

GreatBuildz is a completely free service that simplifies the home renovation and remodeling search by matching and connecting homeowners with reliable, thoroughly screened general contractors throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Founded by a team of real estate and construction professionals with multiple decades of experience, GreatBuildz matches and connects each client with up to three contractors that are individually selected for their specific project within 24 hours and stays by the client’s side from the initial call through the finished remodel. Through its meticulous 10-step vetting process, all GreatBuildz contractors go through an in-person interview, a background check, reference calls, online ratings, an insurance check, and a signed commitment to uphold a 20-point Code of Conduct.

Connect with GreatBuildz:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

GreatBuildz Guide: Tips & Advice for a successful renovation

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Big thank you to Mydoma Studio. If you are looking for the one place to manage your projects, your communication with clients and vendors, your invoicing, all the things, Mydoma Studio makes it easy for you all in one place. Go to Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. 

 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

 

Brad Leavitt #649 , #615 , #580 , #560 , #542

 

Jean Brownhil #422

 

 

]]> 3787 no 680: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn University, Even When You’re Slammed. June 2021 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/680-power-talk-friday-luann-university-even-when-youre-slammed-june-2021 Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Business for 90% of us is absolutely bonkers right now, isn’t it? Why is it when we are busy, we so easily throw aside the time to work on our business? Today, I want to talk about the importance of working on your business always, not just when it’s convenient. On today's show, I am letting the LuAnn University instructors tell you about their amazing courses, and why now, more than ever, it is critical that we focus on our businesses.  LuAnn University Summer 2021: 5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth: Process Leads to Profit Department How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson Profit is in the Numbers Department Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang Window Treatments for Profit The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling Marketing for Profit Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session. Get to Know the Instructors: Rachel Moriarty Sara Lynn Brennan Kimberly Merlitti  Arianne Bellizaire Kathleen Anderson Peter Lang  Jessica Harling What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Charity Events Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other shows mentioned: Rachel Moriarty, Visibility for Creatives: Episodes 55, 214 Sara Brennan, How to Build Systems into Your Services: Episodes 463, 514, 524, 607 Kimberly Merlitti, Project Profitability 101: Episodes 361, 442, 592 Arianne Bellizaire, Video for Creatives: Episodes 20, 568 Kathleen Anderson, Online Bookkeeping 101 &  Design-Build 201: Episode 644 Peter Lang, Online Bookkeeping 201: Episode 349, 464, 522 Jessica Harling, The Proven 7-Step Sales Process: Episode 634 Fri, 25 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn University, Even When You’re Slammed. June 2021 full 680 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Business for 90% of us is absolutely bonkers right now, isn’t it? Why is it when we are busy, we so easily throw aside the time to work on our... Today on A Well-Designed Business Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Business for 90% of us is absolutely bonkers right now, isn’t it? Why is it when we are busy, we so easily throw aside the time to work on our business? Today, I want to talk about the importance of working on your business always, not just when it’s convenient. On today's show, I am letting the LuAnn University instructors tell you about their amazing courses, and why now, more than ever, it is critical that we focus on our businesses.  LuAnn University Summer 2021: 5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth: Process Leads to Profit Department How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson Profit is in the Numbers Department Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang Window Treatments for Profit The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling Marketing for Profit Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session. Get to Know the Instructors: Rachel Moriarty Sara Lynn Brennan Kimberly Merlitti  Arianne Bellizaire Kathleen Anderson Peter Lang  Jessica Harling What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Charity Events Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other shows mentioned: Rachel Moriarty, Visibility for Creatives: Episodes 55, 214 Sara Brennan, How to Build Systems into Your Services: Episodes 463, 514, 524, 607 Kimberly Merlitti, Project Profitability 101: Episodes 361, 442, 592 Arianne Bellizaire, Video for Creatives: Episodes 20, 568 Kathleen Anderson, Online Bookkeeping 101 &  Design-Build 201: Episode 644 Peter Lang, Online Bookkeeping 201: Episode 349, 464, 522 Jessica Harling, The Proven 7-Step Sales Process: Episode 634 Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Business for 90% of us is absolutely bonkers right now, isn’t it? Why is it when we are busy, we so easily throw aside the time to work on our business? Today, I want to talk about the importance of working on your business always, not just when it’s convenient. On today's show, I am letting the LuAnn University instructors tell you about their amazing courses, and why now, more than ever, it is critical that we focus on our businesses. 

LuAnn University Summer 2021:

5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth:

  • Process Leads to Profit Department
    • How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan
    • Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson
  • Profit is in the Numbers Department
    • Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti
    • Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson
    • Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang
  • Window Treatments for Profit
    • The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling
  • Marketing for Profit
    • Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty
    • Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire
  • Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit
    • Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session.
Get to Know the Instructors:

Rachel Moriarty

Sara Lynn Brennan

Kimberly Merlitti 

Arianne Bellizaire

Kathleen Anderson

Peter Lang 

Jessica Harling

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Inside Voice, Outside Voice Charity Events

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other shows mentioned:
  • Rachel Moriarty, Visibility for Creatives: Episodes 55, 214
  • Sara Brennan, How to Build Systems into Your Services: Episodes 463, 514, 524, 607
  • Kimberly Merlitti, Project Profitability 101: Episodes 361, 442, 592
  • Arianne Bellizaire, Video for Creatives: Episodes 20, 568
  • Kathleen Anderson, Online Bookkeeping 101 &  Design-Build 201: Episode 644
  • Peter Lang, Online Bookkeeping 201: Episode 349, 464, 522
  • Jessica Harling, The Proven 7-Step Sales Process: Episode 634
]]> 2872 no 679: John Robert Wiltgen:Hard Conversation, Marketing and Luxury Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/679-john-robert-wiltgenhard-conversation-marketing-and-luxury-clients Today with John Robert Wiltgen:   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is John Wiltgen. John has, for the most part, retired, from his 40+ year career as the principal of John Robert Wiltgen Design Inc., based in the Chicago area. John and I touch on many topics today, (I mean, after such a long and successful career, there s a lot of ground to cover!) We start by talking about how to manage client expectations when you are faced with delays, missed deadlines, disappointed clients, all the way to attracting luxury clients, servicing luxury clients as well as raising your prices when you have returning clients. John had a lot of wisdom to pass on to us and it is no wonder, so tune in for a jam-packed episode!   More About John Robert Wilgen: The integration of art, architecture and design is fundamental at John Robert Wiltgen Design, Inc. This inclusive approach applies to a residence being designed from the ground up, the ingenious restyling and updating of an existing home and the selection and installation of finishes and furnishings. In addition, JRWD creates the construction documents and wields impressive construction management skills, often acting as a general contractor. The result is always a distinct, luxurious residence expressing the owner's personal style. "Everyone says our work is dramatic," reveals John Robert Wiltgen. "No matter the scope of any given project, our ultimate goal is to create something extraordinary that's exclusive to our client." Obsessing over making their client’s worlds beautiful has taken them across North America and halfway around the world – from Chicago’s Gold Coast to Africa’s Ivory Coast. His firm’s name is synonymous with its reputation for excellence and superior quality in design, styling, and craftsmanship. Some of their client’s include talk show host, writer, producer, and actor Steve Harvey, producer, director and actor John Cusack, Chicago Bulls general manager and NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Krause, and former Governor and First Lady of Lagos State (Nigeria) Mr. and Mrs. Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu. Their clients also relied on the JRW team to assist them develop sophisticated art collections. They have placed an artist’s proof of Picasso’s “The Cranach”, a bigger than life size Botero sculpture, a complete suite of Warhol serigraphs, and two Monet paintings in their client’s homes – just to name a few choice pieces. John’s own private collection includes a Henry Moore drawing that, after his purchase, was featured in a 5-museum tour curated by the Henry Moore Foundation (Much Hadham, England). He is also a collector of ancient Egyptian faience, Attica and Roman ceramics. Discerning real estate developers across the country and in Canada often hired John Robert Wiltgen Design to evaluate and revise architectural layouts of new, not yet built, multi-unit housing projects to improve the utilization of interior space. His award-winning sales centers and model homes consistently generated increased revenues and have been featured in local real estate periodicals, as well as national shelter and design magazines, bringing valuable third-party endorsement to his commissions.   The completed projects of JRWD have been featured in over 200 newspaper and magazine articles including Newsweek – an unlikely place to find copy about a residential home designer. His commissions also appear in numerous hardcover books. He has been seen on HGTV’s Homes Across America, I Want That! Baths, I Want That Kitchens, NBC’s Open House, as well as Fox TV and WTTW. A comprehensive library of JRWD press and many of their completed projects, awards, etc. can be viewed at www/jrwdesign.com. Connect with John Robert Wiltgen: Website Instagram  Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: LuAnn University: the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video – Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent! Other shows mentioned: #642 Thom Sweeney #668 Marlo Thomas #74 Candace Olson #34 Mary Fisher #465 Jan Showers #40 Meryl Santopietro $485, #325, #237 Claire Jefford #297 Mikel Welch #549, #388 Corey Damen Jenkins Tue, 22 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 John Robert Wiltgen: Hard Conversation, Marketing and Luxury Clients full 679 LuAnn Nigara Today with John Robert Wiltgen:   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is John Wiltgen. John has, for the most part, retired, from his 40+ year career as the principal of John Robert Wiltgen Design Inc., based in the Chicago... Today with John Robert Wiltgen:   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is John Wiltgen. John has, for the most part, retired, from his 40+ year career as the principal of John Robert Wiltgen Design Inc., based in the Chicago area. John and I touch on many topics today, (I mean, after such a long and successful career, there s a lot of ground to cover!) We start by talking about how to manage client expectations when you are faced with delays, missed deadlines, disappointed clients, all the way to attracting luxury clients, servicing luxury clients as well as raising your prices when you have returning clients. John had a lot of wisdom to pass on to us and it is no wonder, so tune in for a jam-packed episode!   More About John Robert Wilgen: The integration of art, architecture and design is fundamental at John Robert Wiltgen Design, Inc. This inclusive approach applies to a residence being designed from the ground up, the ingenious restyling and updating of an existing home and the selection and installation of finishes and furnishings. In addition, JRWD creates the construction documents and wields impressive construction management skills, often acting as a general contractor. The result is always a distinct, luxurious residence expressing the owner's personal style. "Everyone says our work is dramatic," reveals John Robert Wiltgen. "No matter the scope of any given project, our ultimate goal is to create something extraordinary that's exclusive to our client." Obsessing over making their client’s worlds beautiful has taken them across North America and halfway around the world – from Chicago’s Gold Coast to Africa’s Ivory Coast. His firm’s name is synonymous with its reputation for excellence and superior quality in design, styling, and craftsmanship. Some of their client’s include talk show host, writer, producer, and actor Steve Harvey, producer, director and actor John Cusack, Chicago Bulls general manager and NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Krause, and former Governor and First Lady of Lagos State (Nigeria) Mr. and Mrs. Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu. Their clients also relied on the JRW team to assist them develop sophisticated art collections. They have placed an artist’s proof of Picasso’s “The Cranach”, a bigger than life size Botero sculpture, a complete suite of Warhol serigraphs, and two Monet paintings in their client’s homes – just to name a few choice pieces. John’s own private collection includes a Henry Moore drawing that, after his purchase, was featured in a 5-museum tour curated by the Henry Moore Foundation (Much Hadham, England). He is also a collector of ancient Egyptian faience, Attica and Roman ceramics. Discerning real estate developers across the country and in Canada often hired John Robert Wiltgen Design to evaluate and revise architectural layouts of new, not yet built, multi-unit housing projects to improve the utilization of interior space. His award-winning sales centers and model homes consistently generated increased revenues and have been featured in local real estate periodicals, as well as national shelter and design magazines, bringing valuable third-party endorsement to his commissions.   The completed projects of JRWD have been featured in over 200 newspaper and magazine articles including Newsweek – an unlikely place to find copy about a residential home designer. His commissions also appear in numerous hardcover books. He has been seen on HGTV’s Homes Across America, I Want That! Baths, I Want That Kitchens, NBC’s Open House, as well as Fox TV and WTTW. A comprehensive library of JRWD press and many of their completed projects, awards, etc. can be viewed at www/jrwdesign.com. Connect with John Robert Wiltgen: Website Instagram  Facebook  YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: LuAnn University: the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video – Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent! Other shows mentioned: #642 Thom Sweeney #668 Marlo Thomas #74 Candace Olson #34 Mary Fisher #465 Jan Showers #40 Meryl Santopietro $485, #325, #237 Claire Jefford #297 Mikel Welch #549, #388 Corey Damen Jenkins  

More About John Robert Wilgen:

The integration of art, architecture and design is fundamental at John Robert Wiltgen Design, Inc. This inclusive approach applies to a residence being designed from the ground up, the ingenious restyling and updating of an existing home and the selection and installation of finishes and furnishings. In addition, JRWD creates the construction documents and wields impressive construction management skills, often acting as a general contractor. The result is always a distinct, luxurious residence expressing the owner's personal style.

"Everyone says our work is dramatic," reveals John Robert Wiltgen. "No matter the scope of any given project, our ultimate goal is to create something extraordinary that's exclusive to our client."

Obsessing over making their client’s worlds beautiful has taken them across North America and halfway around the world – from Chicago’s Gold Coast to Africa’s Ivory Coast. His firm’s name is synonymous with its reputation for excellence and superior quality in design, styling, and craftsmanship. Some of their client’s include talk show host, writer, producer, and actor Steve Harvey, producer, director and actor John Cusack, Chicago Bulls general manager and NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Krause, and former Governor and First Lady of Lagos State (Nigeria) Mr. and Mrs. Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu.

Their clients also relied on the JRW team to assist them develop sophisticated art collections. They have placed an artist’s proof of Picasso’s “The Cranach”, a bigger than life size Botero sculpture, a complete suite of Warhol serigraphs, and two Monet paintings in their client’s homes – just to name a few choice pieces. John’s own private collection includes a Henry Moore drawing that, after his purchase, was featured in a 5-museum tour curated by the Henry Moore Foundation (Much Hadham, England). He is also a collector of ancient Egyptian faience, Attica and Roman ceramics.

Discerning real estate developers across the country and in Canada often hired John Robert Wiltgen Design to evaluate and revise architectural layouts of new, not yet built, multi-unit housing projects to improve the utilization of interior space. His award-winning sales centers and model homes consistently generated increased revenues and have been featured in local real estate periodicals, as well as national shelter and design magazines, bringing valuable third-party endorsement to his commissions.

 

The completed projects of JRWD have been featured in over 200 newspaper and magazine articles including Newsweek – an unlikely place to find copy about a residential home designer. His commissions also appear in numerous hardcover books. He has been seen on HGTV’s Homes Across America, I Want That! Baths, I Want That Kitchens, NBC’s Open House, as well as Fox TV and WTTW. A comprehensive library of JRWD press and many of their completed projects, awards, etc. can be viewed at www/jrwdesign.com.

Connect with John Robert Wiltgen:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: LuAnn University:

the summer quarter of LuAnn

University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th.

If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class,

How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th.

If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video –

Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts

July 6th.

And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to

register.

Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get

your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent!

Other shows mentioned:

#642 Thom Sweeney

#668 Marlo Thomas

#74 Candace Olson

#34 Mary Fisher

#465 Jan Showers

#40 Meryl Santopietro

$485, #325, #237 Claire Jefford

#297 Mikel Welch

#549, #388 Corey Damen Jenkins

]]> 5053 no 678: Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/678-power-talk-friday-katie-mcfarlan-the-client-experience-starts-with-processes  Today with Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients. More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way. Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most. Connect with Katie McFarlan: Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.  Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more. Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients Fri, 18 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie McFarlan: The Client Experience Starts with Processes full 678 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care...  Today with Katie McFarlan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients. More About Katie McFarlan: As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way. Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most. Connect with Katie McFarlan: Website Instagram   Blog Client Experience Download for listeners What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.  Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more. Other shows mentioned: #616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients  Today with Katie McFarlan:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The client experience is something we all think about. How do we elevate the experience for our clients so that they feel like we truly care about them without making ourselves crazy by bending over backwards for each client? The answer just might lie in your processes. Today, I’m joined by Katie McFarlan of Dakota Design Company. Katie works with designers to build a strong client experience through streamlined processes, smooth operations, and clear expectations. She’s sharing with us how defined processes lead to a luxury client experience that helps you and your clients.

More About Katie McFarlan:

As a former wedding and event planner with 16 years of experience in operations and project management, I love using both my creative and analytical sides to come up with solutions that work for my clients. With my intimate knowledge of project management and the entrepreneurial mindset, I know what it takes to get behind the scenes operations running smoothly so businesses can grow in a professional way.

Today I help luxury interior designers and wedding planners who are buried in business operations get back to doing the creative work they love. I create and improve their processes and set up systems so they can streamline their workload, move their business forward, and free up their time to focus on the things that matter most.

Connect with Katie McFarlan:

Website

Instagram  

Blog

Client Experience Download for listeners

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: the industry leader in the to-the-trade home furnishings industry. Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.

 Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.

Other shows mentioned:

#616 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients

]]> 4182 no 677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/677-megan-molten-to-succeed-focus-on-your-why Today with Megan Molten: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Megan Molten is back on the show today! Megan is the principal Megan Molten and interior design firm located and Charleston NC. Megan and I discuss how she achieved huge successes so quickly. For outsiders looking into her business, Megan made it look easy! But, in today's episode, we take a peek behind the curtain at the dedication, sacrifice, hard decisions, and sleepless nights that paved the way for her success.  More About Megan Molten: Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world her modern coastal spaces on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full time job in healthcare sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12 year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love. Her passion for light and airy design, go getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following, distinct brand and now online shop for Megan Molten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Megan and her husband Hugh reside in Mount Pleasant in their newly renovated home with their baby girls Marion and Mae. They enjoy the low country lifestyle, all the culture and cuisine Charleston has to offer as well as being on the water as much as they can. Megan feels very fortunate to be able to do what she loves in the city that she loves and serves as her greatest inspiration.  Connect with Megan Molten: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   LuAnn University:  the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video – Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent! Tue, 15 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why full 677 LuAnn Nigara Today with Megan Molten: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Megan Molten is back on the show today! Megan is the principal Megan Molten and interior design firm located and Charleston NC. Megan and I discuss how she achieved huge successes so... Today with Megan Molten: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Megan Molten is back on the show today! Megan is the principal Megan Molten and interior design firm located and Charleston NC. Megan and I discuss how she achieved huge successes so quickly. For outsiders looking into her business, Megan made it look easy! But, in today's episode, we take a peek behind the curtain at the dedication, sacrifice, hard decisions, and sleepless nights that paved the way for her success.  More About Megan Molten: Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world her modern coastal spaces on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full time job in healthcare sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12 year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love. Her passion for light and airy design, go getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following, distinct brand and now online shop for Megan Molten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Megan and her husband Hugh reside in Mount Pleasant in their newly renovated home with their baby girls Marion and Mae. They enjoy the low country lifestyle, all the culture and cuisine Charleston has to offer as well as being on the water as much as they can. Megan feels very fortunate to be able to do what she loves in the city that she loves and serves as her greatest inspiration.  Connect with Megan Molten: Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   LuAnn University:  the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video – Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent! Today with Megan Molten:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Megan Molten is back on the show today! Megan is the principal Megan Molten and interior design firm located and Charleston NC. Megan and I discuss how she achieved huge successes so quickly. For outsiders looking into her business, Megan made it look easy! But, in today's episode, we take a peek behind the curtain at the dedication, sacrifice, hard decisions, and sleepless nights that paved the way for her success. 

More About Megan Molten:

Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world her modern coastal spaces on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full time job in healthcare sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12 year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love. Her passion for light and airy design, go getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following, distinct brand and now online shop for Megan Molten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Megan and her husband Hugh reside in Mount Pleasant in their newly renovated home with their baby girls Marion and Mae. They enjoy the low country lifestyle, all the culture and cuisine Charleston has to offer as well as being on the water as much as they can. Megan feels very fortunate to be able to do what she loves in the city that she loves and serves as her greatest inspiration. 

Connect with Megan Molten:

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma:

Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.

 

LuAnn University:

 the summer quarter of LuAnn

University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th.

If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class,

How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th.

If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video –

Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts

July 6th.

And there’s so much more – go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to

register.

Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get

your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent!

]]> 3863 no 676: Window Treatment Friday: Navigating the craziness of post-covid era in 2021 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/676-window-treatment-friday-navigating-the-craziness-of-post-covid-era-in-2021 Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to Window Treatment Friday!  As business owners, the pandemic was scary, to say the least! Every single day was unpredictable and a new scenario we have never faced before. Now, over a year later, we are starting to see the world open up and see a light at the end of the tunnel. Today, LuAnn and Vita discuss how to navigate the future and the post covid world. More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 11 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Navigating the craziness of post-covid era in 2021 full 676 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to Window Treatment Friday!  As business owners, the pandemic was scary, to say the least! Every single day was unpredictable and a new scenario we have never faced before. Now, over a year later, we are starting... Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to Window Treatment Friday!  As business owners, the pandemic was scary, to say the least! Every single day was unpredictable and a new scenario we have never faced before. Now, over a year later, we are starting to see the world open up and see a light at the end of the tunnel. Today, LuAnn and Vita discuss how to navigate the future and the post covid world. More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Welcome to Window Treatment Friday!  As business owners, the pandemic was scary, to say the least! Every single day was unpredictable and a new scenario we have never faced before. Now, over a year later, we are starting to see the world open up and see a light at the end of the tunnel. Today, LuAnn and Vita discuss how to navigate the future and the post covid world.

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 4035 no 675: Mark Lavender: Standing By Your Interior Design Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/675-mark-lavender-standing-by-your-interior-design-process Today with Mark Lavender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his 25 years working in institutional medical design, Mark Lavender learned a few things about sticking to processes, creating estimates, and getting over the fear of asking for payment. In business for himself for the past six years, Mark is an open book - he shares the details of his markup, when to think twice about signing a client, and how he keeps his clients coming back. Pick it apart: [14:11] Mark shares advice on always utilizing a contract  [19:29] Mark tells about warning signs with clients redlining his contract [20:31] LuAnn offers advice to designers who encounter clients who don’t agree with their contract or value them as professionals  [24:43] Mark shares how he explains his policy of final payment before the product is delivered  [32:00] LuAnn gives advice on pricing yourself properly  [41:00] Mark and LuAnn walk through how Mark operates his pricing structure including his hourly fee LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s all about the contract - everything goes back to the contract.” -Mark Lavender    “You just have to stand your ground. It’s hard as hell the first time you do it!”. -Mark Lavender    I never sell from the standpoint that I have to be like everyone else. Because I’m going to give more. I’m going to be better.” -LuAnn    “Do be afraid to collect the money you’re due.” -Mark Lavender More About Mark Lavender: M. Lavender Interiors is led by Mark Lavender, an architecture graduate of the University of Kentucky - College of Design. Mark worked for several years at two of Chicago’s most prestigious architectural firms – VOA Associates and HOK prior to starting his own design firm. While at these firms, he developed a reputation for managing large teams of professionals and contractors to create great design that realized the client’s vision. Connect with Mark Lavender: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   LuAnn University:  the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video - Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more - go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent!   Tue, 08 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today with Mark Lavender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his 25 years working in institutional medical design, Mark Lavender learned a few things about sticking to processes, creating estimates, and getting over the fear of asking for... Today with Mark Lavender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his 25 years working in institutional medical design, Mark Lavender learned a few things about sticking to processes, creating estimates, and getting over the fear of asking for payment. In business for himself for the past six years, Mark is an open book - he shares the details of his markup, when to think twice about signing a client, and how he keeps his clients coming back. Pick it apart: [14:11] Mark shares advice on always utilizing a contract  [19:29] Mark tells about warning signs with clients redlining his contract [20:31] LuAnn offers advice to designers who encounter clients who don’t agree with their contract or value them as professionals  [24:43] Mark shares how he explains his policy of final payment before the product is delivered  [32:00] LuAnn gives advice on pricing yourself properly  [41:00] Mark and LuAnn walk through how Mark operates his pricing structure including his hourly fee LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s all about the contract - everything goes back to the contract.” -Mark Lavender    “You just have to stand your ground. It’s hard as hell the first time you do it!”. -Mark Lavender    I never sell from the standpoint that I have to be like everyone else. Because I’m going to give more. I’m going to be better.” -LuAnn    “Do be afraid to collect the money you’re due.” -Mark Lavender More About Mark Lavender: M. Lavender Interiors is led by Mark Lavender, an architecture graduate of the University of Kentucky - College of Design. Mark worked for several years at two of Chicago’s most prestigious architectural firms – VOA Associates and HOK prior to starting his own design firm. While at these firms, he developed a reputation for managing large teams of professionals and contractors to create great design that realized the client’s vision. Connect with Mark Lavender: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.   LuAnn University:  the summer quarter of LuAnn University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th. If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class, How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th. If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video - Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts July 6th. And there’s so much more - go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to register. Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent!   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. In his 25 years working in institutional medical design, Mark Lavender learned a few things about sticking to processes, creating estimates, and getting over the fear of asking for payment. In business for himself for the past six years, Mark is an open book - he shares the details of his markup, when to think twice about signing a client, and how he keeps his clients coming back.

Pick it apart:

  • [14:11] Mark shares advice on always utilizing a contract 

    [19:29] Mark tells about warning signs with clients redlining his contract [20:31] LuAnn offers advice to designers who encounter clients who don’t agree with their contract or value them as professionals 

    [24:43] Mark shares how he explains his policy of final payment before the product is delivered 

    [32:00] LuAnn gives advice on pricing yourself properly 

    [41:00] Mark and LuAnn walk through how Mark operates his pricing structure including his hourly fee

LuAnn and Mark Lavender’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s all about the contract - everything goes back to the contract.” -Mark Lavender 

 

“You just have to stand your ground. It’s hard as hell the first time you do it!”. -Mark Lavender 

 

I never sell from the standpoint that I have to be like everyone else. Because I’m going to give more. I’m going to be better.” -LuAnn 

 

“Do be afraid to collect the money you’re due.” -Mark Lavender

More About Mark Lavender:

M. Lavender Interiors is led by Mark Lavender, an architecture graduate of the University of Kentucky - College of Design. Mark worked for several years at two of Chicago’s most prestigious architectural firms – VOA Associates and HOK prior to starting his own design firm. While at these firms, he developed a reputation for managing large teams of professionals and contractors to create great design that realized the client’s vision.

Connect with Mark Lavender:

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma:

Mydoma Studio is the workflow software that organizes your design projects from beginning to end saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. And just for listeners of A Well-Designed Business, you can get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months! Visit mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more.

 

LuAnn University:

 the summer quarter of LuAnn

University classes kicks off in early July. Registration opens on June 11th.

If you need help establishing processes, Sara Brennen is your girl. Her class,

How to Build Systems into Your Services, begins July 7th.

If you’ve got your systems locked down but could use help with video -

Arianne Bellizaire is here to help. Arianne’s class, Video for Creatives, starts

July 6th.

And there’s so much more - go to LuAnnUniversity.com to learn more and to

register.

Take a class, take some time for yourself, do what you need to do to get

your business in shape for Fall. Decide to be excellent!

 

]]> 3855 no 674: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn University: What You Need to Know! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/674-power-talk-friday-luann-university-what-you-need-to-know Today on A Well-Designed Business® Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. Today, I am telling you all about LuAnn University. We are getting ready to launch our Summer Session of courses on July 6th, 2021, and I can't wait for you to learn more about our extraordinary instructors and our growing list of value-packed courses!  LuAnn University Summer 2021: 5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth: Process Leads to Profit Department How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson Profit is in the Numbers Department Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang Window Treatments for Profit The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling Marketing for Profit Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session. Get to Know the Instructors:  Rachel Moriarty Sara Lynn Brennan Kimberly Merlitti  Arianne Bellizaire Kathleen Anderson Peter Lang  Jessica Harling   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Fri, 04 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn University: What You Need to Know! full 674 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business® Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. Today, I am telling you all about LuAnn University. We are getting ready to launch our Summer Session of courses on July 6th, 2021, and I can't wait for you to learn more about... Today on A Well-Designed Business® Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. Today, I am telling you all about LuAnn University. We are getting ready to launch our Summer Session of courses on July 6th, 2021, and I can't wait for you to learn more about our extraordinary instructors and our growing list of value-packed courses!  LuAnn University Summer 2021: 5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth: Process Leads to Profit Department How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson Profit is in the Numbers Department Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang Window Treatments for Profit The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling Marketing for Profit Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session. Get to Know the Instructors:  Rachel Moriarty Sara Lynn Brennan Kimberly Merlitti  Arianne Bellizaire Kathleen Anderson Peter Lang  Jessica Harling   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. Today, I am telling you all about LuAnn University. We are getting ready to launch our Summer Session of courses on July 6th, 2021, and I can't wait for you to learn more about our extraordinary instructors and our growing list of value-packed courses! 

LuAnn University Summer 2021:

5 Departments offering 8 courses for targetted instruction for profit and growth:

  • Process Leads to Profit Department
    • How to Build Systems Into Your Services, taught by Sara Lynn Brennan
    • Design-Build 201, taught by Kathleen Anderson
  • Profit is in the Numbers Department
    • Project Profitability 101, taught by Kimberly Merlitti
    • Online Bookkeeping 101, taught by Kathleen Anderson
    • Online Bookkeeping 201, taught by Peter Lang
  • Window Treatments for Profit
    • The Proven 7-Step Sales Process, taught by Jessica Harling
  • Marketing for Profit
    • Visibility for Creatives, taught by Rachel Moriarty
    • Video for Creatives, taught by Arianne Bellizaire
  • Expand Your Mind, Grow Your Profit
    • Courses coming soon! Check back for the Fall Session.
Get to Know the Instructors: 

Rachel Moriarty

Sara Lynn Brennan

Kimberly Merlitti 

Arianne Bellizaire

Kathleen Anderson

Peter Lang 

Jessica Harling

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 881 no 673: What Would Lu Do? Marketing for Client Acquisition: Where do you start? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/673-what-would-lu-do-marketing-for-client-acquisition-where-do-you-start Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode where I answer listener questions, and….you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with marketing for client acquisition. So where do you start? I will tell you during today's episode! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 01 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? Marketing for Client Acquisition: Where do you start? full 673 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode where I answer listener questions, and….you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with marketing for client... Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode where I answer listener questions, and….you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with marketing for client acquisition. So where do you start? I will tell you during today's episode! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today is a What Would Lu Do episode where I answer listener questions, and….you guessed it, tell you what I would do!

Today’s listener question comes to us from a designer struggling with marketing for client acquisition. So where do you start? I will tell you during today's episode!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 1035 no 672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/672-flash-back-friday-tiffannie-white-the-nappy-bohemian-your-only-and-lessons-from-a-new-interior-design-business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am introducing a new kind of episode to the show! Welcome to Flash Back Friday, where I revisit old episodes of the podcast. After so many successful years of interviews, there was a need, for both new listeners and long-time listeners alike, to revisit the archives. For new listeners, it is an opportunity to be introduced to older shows they missed, and for long-time listeners, it's a chance to refresh the ah-ha moments of the past!    So here we go! Today, we are revisiting "Episode 423: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business". From the archives... On today’s show! We’re talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie’s business, what she’s doing, and the lessons she’s learned from running her business. Tiffannie’s job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today’s episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people’s lives. Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie. About Tiffannie’s personal and unique ‘only’. Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she’s learned. Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business. Being focused and clear in her vision. All about Tiffannie’s e-design packages. Tiffannie’s e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth. Settling on a name. Going with the flow and trusting. Some of the challenges she’s faced. You have to value what you do to have a thriving business. Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business. Work for free only if it’s worth your while. Some tips about blogging. Tiffannie’s business goals for the next year. Connect with Tiffannie: Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian Previous shows mentioned: Albie Buabeng #348 Chaney Widmer #260, #327 Cheryl Janice #41 Sue Firestone #404 Fri, 28 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business full 672 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am introducing a new kind of episode to the show! Welcome to Flash Back Friday, where I revisit old episodes of the podcast. After so many successful years of interviews, there was a need, for both new... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am introducing a new kind of episode to the show! Welcome to Flash Back Friday, where I revisit old episodes of the podcast. After so many successful years of interviews, there was a need, for both new listeners and long-time listeners alike, to revisit the archives. For new listeners, it is an opportunity to be introduced to older shows they missed, and for long-time listeners, it's a chance to refresh the ah-ha moments of the past!    So here we go! Today, we are revisiting "Episode 423: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business". From the archives... On today’s show! We’re talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie’s business, what she’s doing, and the lessons she’s learned from running her business. Tiffannie’s job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today’s episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people’s lives. Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie. About Tiffannie’s personal and unique ‘only’. Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she’s learned. Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business. Being focused and clear in her vision. All about Tiffannie’s e-design packages. Tiffannie’s e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth. Settling on a name. Going with the flow and trusting. Some of the challenges she’s faced. You have to value what you do to have a thriving business. Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business. Work for free only if it’s worth your while. Some tips about blogging. Tiffannie’s business goals for the next year. Connect with Tiffannie: Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian Previous shows mentioned: Albie Buabeng #348 Chaney Widmer #260, #327 Cheryl Janice #41 Sue Firestone #404 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am introducing a new kind of episode to the show! Welcome to Flash Back Friday, where I revisit old episodes of the podcast. After so many successful years of interviews, there was a need, for both new listeners and long-time listeners alike, to revisit the archives.

For new listeners, it is an opportunity to be introduced to older shows they missed, and for long-time listeners, it's a chance to refresh the ah-ha moments of the past!   

So here we go! Today, we are revisiting "Episode 423: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business".

From the archives...

On today’s show! We’re talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie’s business, what she’s doing, and the lessons she’s learned from running her business.

Tiffannie’s job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today’s episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people’s lives.
  • Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie.
  • About Tiffannie’s personal and unique ‘only’.
  • Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she’s learned.
  • Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business.
  • Being focused and clear in her vision.
  • All about Tiffannie’s e-design packages.
  • Tiffannie’s e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth.
  • Settling on a name.
  • Going with the flow and trusting.
  • Some of the challenges she’s faced.
  • You have to value what you do to have a thriving business.
  • Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business.
  • Work for free only if it’s worth your while.
  • Some tips about blogging.
  • Tiffannie’s business goals for the next year.

Connect with Tiffannie:

Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian

The Nappy Bohemian

The Nappy Bohemian

Previous shows mentioned:

Albie Buabeng #348

Chaney Widmer #260, #327

Cheryl Janice #41

Sue Firestone #404

]]> 4011 no 671: Kate Bendewald: High End Commercial Design to Motherhood and Entrepreneurship. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/671-kate-bendewald-high-end-commercial-design-to-motherhood-and-entrepreneurship Today with Kate Bendewald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Sometimes, we start our own business because we always knew that’s what we were meant for. We want to be our own bosses, have flexibility in our work, and take charge of our lives. Other times, we’re pushed into it due to changes in our circumstances. For my guest today, Kate Bendewald, the second category is true. After she had her first daughter, she left a prestigious job in a commercial design firm and struck out on her own. Her design experience didn’t prepare her for the business side of things—that, she had to learn on her own. Today, she’s sharing with us the lessons she learned and how she has stayed the course through it all.  Pick it apart: [7:16] Kate shares her journey from commercial designer to running her own firm.  [18:11] Kate discusses how she navigated the transition into business owner without any knowledge of business fundamentals. [22:00] Kate dives into how she figured things out along the way, including improving at sales and messaging.  [37:19] Kate explains her “FOCUS” strategy for not losing sight of what’s important and maintaining movement toward success.  [45:38] Kate and LuAnn discuss the Designer’s Oasis and how designers can take advantage of its upcoming relaunch. LuAnn and Kate Bendewald’s Ah-Ha moments: “Sometimes we are just counting the hours until we can leave a job—maybe it’s because we are going to make a move in location or a family change like having a baby—and other times it’s that, what you just said, that you enjoyed it and it was kind of a surprise that it wasn’t manageable with a baby.” -LuAnn Nigara   “That conversation was the starting point and after that, it was pen to paper, creating a spreadsheet, talking about the low-end possibility, the high-end possibility, and stretching and saving in other areas in order to make it work for our family.” -Kate Bendewald   “Once I started to realize that my call to action needed to be much simpler, my success rate went from 20% to 90%, so knowing your call to action and how to wrap up that discovery call has been an important part.” -Kate Bendewald   “We tend to get hung up on the term ‘sales.’ But the truth is that if you have any intention to run your business, you have to get good at sales, so you need to embrace it and you need to become comfortable with it.” -Kate Bendewald More About Kate Bendewald: Kate’s work is a celebration of approachable luxury informed by her lifelong love of antiques. Her unfussy livable interiors are classic in nature but remain fresh by the unapologetic mix of contemporary art and furnishings with collected items. The result is effortless mix of color, pattern, materials, styles, and eras. Over the last 10 years, she has built a career in interior design working on projects ranging from luxury residences in the Texas Hill Country, to public spaces for children like the Rose Andom Center and Denver Children’s Museum. She’s had projects from Alaska to South Carolina. Additionally, she has designed for many clients with special physical, mental, and emotional needs. Last year, 100% of her new clients were word-of-mouth referrals and over half of her clients were repeat clients, that not only love how she translates their ideas into reality, but also elevates the process into a true experience. Kate grew up in a creative family and developed her technical skills while earning a degree in Interior Design from Texas State University. Today she’s married and a mother to two young daughters that constantly teach her better ways to live beautifully with children. Connect with Kate Bendewald: Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #656 April Jensen: How to Establish Client Expectations for Successful Projects   #654 Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business Tue, 25 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Kate Bendewald: High End Commercial Design to Motherhood and Entrepreneurship. full 671 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kate Bendewald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Sometimes, we start our own business because we always knew that’s what we were meant for. We want to be our own bosses, have flexibility in our work, and take charge of our lives.... Today with Kate Bendewald: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Sometimes, we start our own business because we always knew that’s what we were meant for. We want to be our own bosses, have flexibility in our work, and take charge of our lives. Other times, we’re pushed into it due to changes in our circumstances. For my guest today, Kate Bendewald, the second category is true. After she had her first daughter, she left a prestigious job in a commercial design firm and struck out on her own. Her design experience didn’t prepare her for the business side of things—that, she had to learn on her own. Today, she’s sharing with us the lessons she learned and how she has stayed the course through it all.  Pick it apart: [7:16] Kate shares her journey from commercial designer to running her own firm.  [18:11] Kate discusses how she navigated the transition into business owner without any knowledge of business fundamentals. [22:00] Kate dives into how she figured things out along the way, including improving at sales and messaging.  [37:19] Kate explains her “FOCUS” strategy for not losing sight of what’s important and maintaining movement toward success.  [45:38] Kate and LuAnn discuss the Designer’s Oasis and how designers can take advantage of its upcoming relaunch. LuAnn and Kate Bendewald’s Ah-Ha moments: “Sometimes we are just counting the hours until we can leave a job—maybe it’s because we are going to make a move in location or a family change like having a baby—and other times it’s that, what you just said, that you enjoyed it and it was kind of a surprise that it wasn’t manageable with a baby.” -LuAnn Nigara   “That conversation was the starting point and after that, it was pen to paper, creating a spreadsheet, talking about the low-end possibility, the high-end possibility, and stretching and saving in other areas in order to make it work for our family.” -Kate Bendewald   “Once I started to realize that my call to action needed to be much simpler, my success rate went from 20% to 90%, so knowing your call to action and how to wrap up that discovery call has been an important part.” -Kate Bendewald   “We tend to get hung up on the term ‘sales.’ But the truth is that if you have any intention to run your business, you have to get good at sales, so you need to embrace it and you need to become comfortable with it.” -Kate Bendewald More About Kate Bendewald: Kate’s work is a celebration of approachable luxury informed by her lifelong love of antiques. Her unfussy livable interiors are classic in nature but remain fresh by the unapologetic mix of contemporary art and furnishings with collected items. The result is effortless mix of color, pattern, materials, styles, and eras. Over the last 10 years, she has built a career in interior design working on projects ranging from luxury residences in the Texas Hill Country, to public spaces for children like the Rose Andom Center and Denver Children’s Museum. She’s had projects from Alaska to South Carolina. Additionally, she has designed for many clients with special physical, mental, and emotional needs. Last year, 100% of her new clients were word-of-mouth referrals and over half of her clients were repeat clients, that not only love how she translates their ideas into reality, but also elevates the process into a true experience. Kate grew up in a creative family and developed her technical skills while earning a degree in Interior Design from Texas State University. Today she’s married and a mother to two young daughters that constantly teach her better ways to live beautifully with children. Connect with Kate Bendewald: Website  Instagram  Facebook  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned: #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #656 April Jensen: How to Establish Client Expectations for Successful Projects   #654 Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Sometimes, we start our own business because we always knew that’s what we were meant for. We want to be our own bosses, have flexibility in our work, and take charge of our lives. Other times, we’re pushed into it due to changes in our circumstances. For my guest today, Kate Bendewald, the second category is true. After she had her first daughter, she left a prestigious job in a commercial design firm and struck out on her own. Her design experience didn’t prepare her for the business side of things—that, she had to learn on her own. Today, she’s sharing with us the lessons she learned and how she has stayed the course through it all. 

Pick it apart:
  • [7:16] Kate shares her journey from commercial designer to running her own firm. 
  • [18:11] Kate discusses how she navigated the transition into business owner without any knowledge of business fundamentals.
  • [22:00] Kate dives into how she figured things out along the way, including improving at sales and messaging. 
  • [37:19] Kate explains her “FOCUS” strategy for not losing sight of what’s important and maintaining movement toward success. 
  • [45:38] Kate and LuAnn discuss the Designer’s Oasis and how designers can take advantage of its upcoming relaunch.
LuAnn and Kate Bendewald’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Sometimes we are just counting the hours until we can leave a job—maybe it’s because we are going to make a move in location or a family change like having a baby—and other times it’s that, what you just said, that you enjoyed it and it was kind of a surprise that it wasn’t manageable with a baby.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“That conversation was the starting point and after that, it was pen to paper, creating a spreadsheet, talking about the low-end possibility, the high-end possibility, and stretching and saving in other areas in order to make it work for our family.” -Kate Bendewald

 

“Once I started to realize that my call to action needed to be much simpler, my success rate went from 20% to 90%, so knowing your call to action and how to wrap up that discovery call has been an important part.” -Kate Bendewald

 

“We tend to get hung up on the term ‘sales.’ But the truth is that if you have any intention to run your business, you have to get good at sales, so you need to embrace it and you need to become comfortable with it.” -Kate Bendewald

More About Kate Bendewald:

Kate’s work is a celebration of approachable luxury informed by her lifelong love of antiques. Her unfussy livable interiors are classic in nature but remain fresh by the unapologetic mix of contemporary art and furnishings with collected items. The result is effortless mix of color, pattern, materials, styles, and eras.

Over the last 10 years, she has built a career in interior design working on projects ranging from luxury residences in the Texas Hill Country, to public spaces for children like the Rose Andom Center and Denver Children’s Museum. She’s had projects from Alaska to South Carolina. Additionally, she has designed for many clients with special physical, mental, and emotional needs.

Last year, 100% of her new clients were word-of-mouth referrals and over half of her clients were repeat clients, that not only love how she translates their ideas into reality, but also elevates the process into a true experience.

Kate grew up in a creative family and developed her technical skills while earning a degree in Interior Design from Texas State University. Today she’s married and a mother to two young daughters that constantly teach her better ways to live beautifully with children.

Connect with Kate Bendewald:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit, the place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals, so that you can free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

#584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

#656 April Jensen: How to Establish Client Expectations for Successful Projects

 

#654 Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business

]]> 3499 no 670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/670-power-talk-friday-susan-inglis-sustainable-furnishings-council-what-you-need-to-know Today with Susan Inglis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you hear the phrase “sustainable furnishings,” what comes to mind? Is it something you already know about, something you are bringing forth to your clients on a regular basis? Is it something you vaguely know about but aren’t sure of all the ins and outs? Or is it something that isn’t quite on your radar yet? No matter which category you fall into, today’s conversation is relevant for you. Susan Inglis, Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, is sharing with us why sustainable furnishings matter, the power that designers hold when it comes to the future, and how you can embrace these ideals in your business. Pick it apart: [8:10] Susan and LuAnn discuss the power that interior designers hold when it comes to sustainability issues.  [11:12] Susan breaks down what the Sustainable Furnishings Council is and what it offers for designers.  [21:39] Susan gives us insight into the research behind sustainable furnishings and consumer interest. [32:59] Susan dives into her inspiring backstory of how she came to be executive director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council.  [48:15] Susan explains how to become a Green Leader or align your firm with the Council. LuAnn and Susan Inglis’ Ah-Ha moments: “Our supply chains are extremely complex, but our relationships are very, very important...so if one link in the chain says ‘I’m making a commitment to lower my carbon dioxide emissions...I’m going to change the lightbulbs in my warehouse…” they have the opportunity to share that news up and down their supply chain, inviting their vendors and everybody else to also take whatever is an easy first step, because all of us can do a little bit of something.” -Susan Inglis   “If each one of us is consciously trying to do what we can, it does have an overall effect on the end product being delivered in a less damaging way to the environment.” -LuAnn Nigara   “The interior designer is in a position of great power in being able to tell clients what the attributes of one piece of furniture over another might be, and this is important because 97% of the consumers we surveyed say they would be very interested in buying environmentally safe home furnishings (if, of course, they liked the style and the cost was within their budget).” -Susan Inglis   “The first step is often the most significant one you take, so I really encourage people to start with whatever is easiest for them, because you’re going to see that it makes a difference, you’re going to get excited, you’re going to be inspired, you’re going to want to make more changes and improvements within your operation, and, especially within the case of designers, you’re going to want to learn more and more because you’re going to see the significance of the information you’re garnering and sharing with your clients.” -Susan Inglis   More About Susan Inglis: Susan Inglis is Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, and resident expert with the organization she helped found in 2006. She has led SFC to work with industry leaders to establish criteria to gauge the sustainability of furniture products and practices; develop programs for educating all sectors of the industry; and attract hundreds of companies to membership. Inglis is also founder and owner of From The Mountain, a company that imports hand spun cashmere yarn from Afghanistan, providing safe income for over 100 women there. Inglis serves on the Board of the American Sustainable Business Council and was awarded a 2017 Visionary Leadership award by the NC Business Council. She lives in North Carolina.   About SFC: MISSION: SUSTAINABILITY.  The Sustainable Furnishings Council is a coalition of manufacturers, retailers and designers dedicated to raising awareness and expanding the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices across the home furnishings industry. Our mission is to help companies reduce their environmental footprints as they grow, and to help consumers find healthy furnishings.  To accomplish these lofty goals, we provide the best education, promotion, and networking opportunities available.  We raise consumer interest in environmentally safe furnishings and promote the development of many more sustainable options. SFC urges the use of Life Cycle Assessment as the best method for analyzing the environmental and health impact of products and a verifiable chain of custody as the only acceptable method for tracking wood flow. SFC members support the triple bottom line of PEOPLE - PLANET - PROFITS and lead the industry in best practices throughout their supply chains. Members are committed to continually work toward a healthy future, inside and out.   OUR GOALS: Raise awareness of sustainability issues. Assist companies in adopting eco-friendly practices. Serve as an information clearinghouse. Provide a symbol of assurance for consumers. Connect with Susan Inglis: Susan’s 2021 consumer report for free for a limited time Website Instagram  Facebook   LinkedIn Twitter YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community. Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 – You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come. Fri, 21 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know. full 670 LuAnn Nigara Today with Susan Inglis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you hear the phrase “sustainable furnishings,” what comes to mind? Is it something you already know about, something you are bringing forth to your clients on a regular basis? Is... Today with Susan Inglis: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you hear the phrase “sustainable furnishings,” what comes to mind? Is it something you already know about, something you are bringing forth to your clients on a regular basis? Is it something you vaguely know about but aren’t sure of all the ins and outs? Or is it something that isn’t quite on your radar yet? No matter which category you fall into, today’s conversation is relevant for you. Susan Inglis, Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, is sharing with us why sustainable furnishings matter, the power that designers hold when it comes to the future, and how you can embrace these ideals in your business. Pick it apart: [8:10] Susan and LuAnn discuss the power that interior designers hold when it comes to sustainability issues.  [11:12] Susan breaks down what the Sustainable Furnishings Council is and what it offers for designers.  [21:39] Susan gives us insight into the research behind sustainable furnishings and consumer interest. [32:59] Susan dives into her inspiring backstory of how she came to be executive director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council.  [48:15] Susan explains how to become a Green Leader or align your firm with the Council. LuAnn and Susan Inglis’ Ah-Ha moments: “Our supply chains are extremely complex, but our relationships are very, very important...so if one link in the chain says ‘I’m making a commitment to lower my carbon dioxide emissions...I’m going to change the lightbulbs in my warehouse…” they have the opportunity to share that news up and down their supply chain, inviting their vendors and everybody else to also take whatever is an easy first step, because all of us can do a little bit of something.” -Susan Inglis   “If each one of us is consciously trying to do what we can, it does have an overall effect on the end product being delivered in a less damaging way to the environment.” -LuAnn Nigara   “The interior designer is in a position of great power in being able to tell clients what the attributes of one piece of furniture over another might be, and this is important because 97% of the consumers we surveyed say they would be very interested in buying environmentally safe home furnishings (if, of course, they liked the style and the cost was within their budget).” -Susan Inglis   “The first step is often the most significant one you take, so I really encourage people to start with whatever is easiest for them, because you’re going to see that it makes a difference, you’re going to get excited, you’re going to be inspired, you’re going to want to make more changes and improvements within your operation, and, especially within the case of designers, you’re going to want to learn more and more because you’re going to see the significance of the information you’re garnering and sharing with your clients.” -Susan Inglis   More About Susan Inglis: Susan Inglis is Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, and resident expert with the organization she helped found in 2006. She has led SFC to work with industry leaders to establish criteria to gauge the sustainability of furniture products and practices; develop programs for educating all sectors of the industry; and attract hundreds of companies to membership. Inglis is also founder and owner of From The Mountain, a company that imports hand spun cashmere yarn from Afghanistan, providing safe income for over 100 women there. Inglis serves on the Board of the American Sustainable Business Council and was awarded a 2017 Visionary Leadership award by the NC Business Council. She lives in North Carolina.   About SFC: MISSION: SUSTAINABILITY.  The Sustainable Furnishings Council is a coalition of manufacturers, retailers and designers dedicated to raising awareness and expanding the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices across the home furnishings industry. Our mission is to help companies reduce their environmental footprints as they grow, and to help consumers find healthy furnishings.  To accomplish these lofty goals, we provide the best education, promotion, and networking opportunities available.  We raise consumer interest in environmentally safe furnishings and promote the development of many more sustainable options. SFC urges the use of Life Cycle Assessment as the best method for analyzing the environmental and health impact of products and a verifiable chain of custody as the only acceptable method for tracking wood flow. SFC members support the triple bottom line of PEOPLE - PLANET - PROFITS and lead the industry in best practices throughout their supply chains. Members are committed to continually work toward a healthy future, inside and out.   OUR GOALS: Raise awareness of sustainability issues. Assist companies in adopting eco-friendly practices. Serve as an information clearinghouse. Provide a symbol of assurance for consumers. Connect with Susan Inglis: Susan’s 2021 consumer report for free for a limited time Website Instagram  Facebook   LinkedIn Twitter YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community. Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 – You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. When you hear the phrase “sustainable furnishings,” what comes to mind? Is it something you already know about, something you are bringing forth to your clients on a regular basis? Is it something you vaguely know about but aren’t sure of all the ins and outs? Or is it something that isn’t quite on your radar yet?

No matter which category you fall into, today’s conversation is relevant for you. Susan Inglis, Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, is sharing with us why sustainable furnishings matter, the power that designers hold when it comes to the future, and how you can embrace these ideals in your business.

Pick it apart:
  • [8:10] Susan and LuAnn discuss the power that interior designers hold when it comes to sustainability issues. 
  • [11:12] Susan breaks down what the Sustainable Furnishings Council is and what it offers for designers. 
  • [21:39] Susan gives us insight into the research behind sustainable furnishings and consumer interest.
  • [32:59] Susan dives into her inspiring backstory of how she came to be executive director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council. 
  • [48:15] Susan explains how to become a Green Leader or align your firm with the Council.
LuAnn and Susan Inglis’ Ah-Ha moments:

“Our supply chains are extremely complex, but our relationships are very, very important...so if one link in the chain says ‘I’m making a commitment to lower my carbon dioxide emissions...I’m going to change the lightbulbs in my warehouse…” they have the opportunity to share that news up and down their supply chain, inviting their vendors and everybody else to also take whatever is an easy first step, because all of us can do a little bit of something.” -Susan Inglis

 

“If each one of us is consciously trying to do what we can, it does have an overall effect on the end product being delivered in a less damaging way to the environment.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“The interior designer is in a position of great power in being able to tell clients what the attributes of one piece of furniture over another might be, and this is important because 97% of the consumers we surveyed say they would be very interested in buying environmentally safe home furnishings (if, of course, they liked the style and the cost was within their budget).” -Susan Inglis

 

“The first step is often the most significant one you take, so I really encourage people to start with whatever is easiest for them, because you’re going to see that it makes a difference, you’re going to get excited, you’re going to be inspired, you’re going to want to make more changes and improvements within your operation, and, especially within the case of designers, you’re going to want to learn more and more because you’re going to see the significance of the information you’re garnering and sharing with your clients.” -Susan Inglis

 

More About Susan Inglis:

Susan Inglis is Executive Director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, and resident expert with the organization she helped found in 2006. She has led SFC to work with industry leaders to establish criteria to gauge the sustainability of furniture products and practices; develop programs for educating all sectors of the industry; and attract hundreds of companies to membership. Inglis is also founder and owner of From The Mountain, a company that imports hand spun cashmere yarn from Afghanistan, providing safe income for over 100 women there. Inglis serves on the Board of the American Sustainable Business Council and was awarded a 2017 Visionary Leadership award by the NC Business Council. She lives in North Carolina.

 

About SFC:

MISSION: SUSTAINABILITY.  The Sustainable Furnishings Council is a coalition of manufacturers, retailers and designers dedicated to raising awareness and expanding the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices across the home furnishings industry. Our mission is to help companies reduce their environmental footprints as they grow, and to help consumers find healthy furnishings.  To accomplish these lofty goals, we provide the best education, promotion, and networking opportunities available.  We raise consumer interest in environmentally safe furnishings and promote the development of many more sustainable options. SFC urges the use of Life Cycle Assessment as the best method for analyzing the environmental and health impact of products and a verifiable chain of custody as the only acceptable method for tracking wood flow. SFC members support the triple bottom line of PEOPLE - PLANET - PROFITS and lead the industry in best practices throughout their supply chains. Members are committed to continually work toward a healthy future, inside and out.

 

OUR GOALS: Raise awareness of sustainability issues. Assist companies in adopting eco-friendly practices. Serve as an information clearinghouse. Provide a symbol of assurance for consumers.

Connect with Susan Inglis:

Susan’s 2021 consumer report for free for a limited time

Website

Instagram 

Facebook  

LinkedIn

Twitter

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet:

Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community.

Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 – You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come.

]]> 4006 no 669: Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/669-kelly-collier-managing-expectations-through-clear-messaging Today with Kelly Collier: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by a guest who knows all about balance in her business—Kelly Collier of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia. Like many designers, Kelly started her business on the side, while working a full-time corporate career. Two years later, her business has grown and thrived to a full-service design business. But she’s also maintaining her full-time job. To top it all off, she is also a realtor and a podcaster.  Balancing it all isn’t easy. It takes deliberation, commitment, planning, and dedication. Today, Kelly’s sharing her tips for balancing it all and building the business, along with maintaining her career responsibilities.  Pick it apart: [6:40] Kelly shares how she manages to identify her multiple facets in her social media presence. [11:40] Kelly dives into time blocking and how she lays out her day so that nothing falls through the cracks. [18:32] LuAnn and Kelly talk about the importance of transparency and setting out expectations with clients. [30:13] Kelly shares some insight into her personal life and how that factors into her responsibilities.  [38:50] Kelly discusses racism in both the corporate world and the design industry and how she has dealt with it. LuAnn and Kelly Collier’s Ah-Ha moments: “I have to keep in mind what a healthy balance is for me...by me leading more with interior design, then I always have more interior design clients than real estate clients.” -Kelly Collier   “The nugget in this is the clarity in your priorities. You’re not just throwing the spaghetti against the wall with Instagram. You’re actually deciding that given the time and the ROI on design, real estate, and corporate, that the mix is that corporate obviously gets done first, then design, then real estate, but there’s a clear understanding of why they’re in that order and therefore, the strategy reflects that.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I hear people say that we all have the same 24 hours in a day, which is very true, but how you use those hours matters, especially when you’re doing a lot of things.” -Kelly Collier More About Kelly Collier: Kelly Collier is the Owner and Principal of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia PA. She is also a licensed Realtor, offering interior design and real estate services under the brokerage of Keller Williams. Plot Twist Design was officially established in February 2019, and Kelly has been a Realtor for 12yrs. She also has a full time corporate career as a Senior Account Manager.    Kelly is also a Blogger, Podcaster (Plot Twist Design Business Podcast) and recently started using her platform as an Influencer collaborating with other businesses. To date, Kelly has been featured in numerous publications by Architectural Digest AD PRO, Business of Home, Curated Quarters Mag, and others. She also served as an Influencer at market sharing trends and finds on the High Point Market Instagram page for fall 2020.    In recent design news, Kelly completed her second One Room Challenge home project; a powder room renovation and a 2nd powder room refresh partially sponsored by The Tile Shop.    Kelly’s brand is being built to offer multiple services. Her platform on social media is used to share her journey in the business and real-life via lifestyle posts, blog shares, and inspirational posts.  Connect with Kelly Collier: Plot Twist Design Instagram Plot Twist Home Instagram  Facebook Website Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim. Tue, 18 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Kelly Collier: Managing Expectations Through Clear Messaging full 669 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kelly Collier: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by a guest who knows all about balance in her business—Kelly Collier of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia. Like many designers, Kelly started her business on the... Today with Kelly Collier: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by a guest who knows all about balance in her business—Kelly Collier of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia. Like many designers, Kelly started her business on the side, while working a full-time corporate career. Two years later, her business has grown and thrived to a full-service design business. But she’s also maintaining her full-time job. To top it all off, she is also a realtor and a podcaster.  Balancing it all isn’t easy. It takes deliberation, commitment, planning, and dedication. Today, Kelly’s sharing her tips for balancing it all and building the business, along with maintaining her career responsibilities.  Pick it apart: [6:40] Kelly shares how she manages to identify her multiple facets in her social media presence. [11:40] Kelly dives into time blocking and how she lays out her day so that nothing falls through the cracks. [18:32] LuAnn and Kelly talk about the importance of transparency and setting out expectations with clients. [30:13] Kelly shares some insight into her personal life and how that factors into her responsibilities.  [38:50] Kelly discusses racism in both the corporate world and the design industry and how she has dealt with it. LuAnn and Kelly Collier’s Ah-Ha moments: “I have to keep in mind what a healthy balance is for me...by me leading more with interior design, then I always have more interior design clients than real estate clients.” -Kelly Collier   “The nugget in this is the clarity in your priorities. You’re not just throwing the spaghetti against the wall with Instagram. You’re actually deciding that given the time and the ROI on design, real estate, and corporate, that the mix is that corporate obviously gets done first, then design, then real estate, but there’s a clear understanding of why they’re in that order and therefore, the strategy reflects that.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I hear people say that we all have the same 24 hours in a day, which is very true, but how you use those hours matters, especially when you’re doing a lot of things.” -Kelly Collier More About Kelly Collier: Kelly Collier is the Owner and Principal of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia PA. She is also a licensed Realtor, offering interior design and real estate services under the brokerage of Keller Williams. Plot Twist Design was officially established in February 2019, and Kelly has been a Realtor for 12yrs. She also has a full time corporate career as a Senior Account Manager.    Kelly is also a Blogger, Podcaster (Plot Twist Design Business Podcast) and recently started using her platform as an Influencer collaborating with other businesses. To date, Kelly has been featured in numerous publications by Architectural Digest AD PRO, Business of Home, Curated Quarters Mag, and others. She also served as an Influencer at market sharing trends and finds on the High Point Market Instagram page for fall 2020.    In recent design news, Kelly completed her second One Room Challenge home project; a powder room renovation and a 2nd powder room refresh partially sponsored by The Tile Shop.    Kelly’s brand is being built to offer multiple services. Her platform on social media is used to share her journey in the business and real-life via lifestyle posts, blog shares, and inspirational posts.  Connect with Kelly Collier: Plot Twist Design Instagram Plot Twist Home Instagram  Facebook Website Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim. Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by a guest who knows all about balance in her business—Kelly Collier of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia. Like many designers, Kelly started her business on the side, while working a full-time corporate career. Two years later, her business has grown and thrived to a full-service design business. But she’s also maintaining her full-time job. To top it all off, she is also a realtor and a podcaster.  Balancing it all isn’t easy. It takes deliberation, commitment, planning, and dedication. Today, Kelly’s sharing her tips for balancing it all and building the business, along with maintaining her career responsibilities. 

Pick it apart:
  • [6:40] Kelly shares how she manages to identify her multiple facets in her social media presence.
  • [11:40] Kelly dives into time blocking and how she lays out her day so that nothing falls through the cracks.
  • [18:32] LuAnn and Kelly talk about the importance of transparency and setting out expectations with clients.
  • [30:13] Kelly shares some insight into her personal life and how that factors into her responsibilities. 
  • [38:50] Kelly discusses racism in both the corporate world and the design industry and how she has dealt with it.
LuAnn and Kelly Collier’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I have to keep in mind what a healthy balance is for me...by me leading more with interior design, then I always have more interior design clients than real estate clients.” -Kelly Collier

 

“The nugget in this is the clarity in your priorities. You’re not just throwing the spaghetti against the wall with Instagram. You’re actually deciding that given the time and the ROI on design, real estate, and corporate, that the mix is that corporate obviously gets done first, then design, then real estate, but there’s a clear understanding of why they’re in that order and therefore, the strategy reflects that.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I hear people say that we all have the same 24 hours in a day, which is very true, but how you use those hours matters, especially when you’re doing a lot of things.” -Kelly Collier

More About Kelly Collier:

Kelly Collier is the Owner and Principal of Plot Twist Design in Philadelphia PA. She is also a licensed Realtor, offering interior design and real estate services under the brokerage of Keller Williams. Plot Twist Design was officially established in February 2019, and Kelly has been a Realtor for 12yrs. She also has a full time corporate career as a Senior Account Manager. 

 

Kelly is also a Blogger, Podcaster (Plot Twist Design Business Podcast) and recently started using her platform as an Influencer collaborating with other businesses. To date, Kelly has been featured in numerous publications by Architectural Digest AD PRO, Business of Home, Curated Quarters Mag, and others. She also served as an Influencer at market sharing trends and finds on the High Point Market Instagram page for fall 2020. 

 

In recent design news, Kelly completed her second One Room Challenge home project; a powder room renovation and a 2nd powder room refresh partially sponsored by The Tile Shop. 

 

Kelly’s brand is being built to offer multiple services. Her platform on social media is used to share her journey in the business and real-life via lifestyle posts, blog shares, and inspirational posts. 

Connect with Kelly Collier:

Plot Twist Design Instagram

Plot Twist Home Instagram 

Facebook

Website

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet: Kravet just recently unveiled their newest collection, Barry Lantz canvas to cloth. Check it out today and use coupon code AWDB10 to save 10% off any one purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper or Trim.

]]> 3780 no 668: Power Talk Friday: Marlo Thomas: Leading with Conviction and Preparing for Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/668-power-talk-friday-marlo-thomas-leading-with-conviction-and-preparing-for-success Today with Marlo Thomas: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Marlo Thomas of the hit show, That Girl, shares the story of how her father’s diligence shaped her path to success and how her mother’s graciousness inspired her own product line with Williams Sonoma. She also shares her moment of self-doubt on her way to wild success in show business and how to lead with conviction so you can make a difference. Pick it apart: [11:15] Marlo shares her advice to young people   [14:50] Marlo talks about how her father was her example of what it took to be successful    [21:00] Marlo shares how she came to call the shots for the storyline of That Girl   [27:00] LuAnn and Marlo chat about getting started with her women’s charity   [32:00] Marlo shares about Free to Be You   [40:03] Marlo tells about when she first met her husband   [44:00] Marlo shares what inspired her William Sonoma collection LuAnn and Marlo Thomas’s Ah-Ha moments: “Everybody gets a first chance but not everybody gets a second chance - so be ready for that first chance.” - Marlo Thomas   “If you believe something really strongly, it’s probably true.” - Marlo Thomas More About Marlo Thomas: Marlo Thomas is an award-winning actress, author and activist whose body of work continues to impact American entertainment and culture. She has been honored with four Emmy Awards, the Peabody, a Golden Globe and a Grammy, and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame. In November 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest honor a civilian can receive—by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony.   Marlo burst onto the scene as television’s That Girl, which broke new ground for independent women everywhere, and which she also conceived and produced. Her pioneering spirit continued with her creation of Free to Be...You and Me, which became a platinum album, best-selling book, Emmy Award-winning television special and a stage show. Proceeds from this project went toward the formation of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which was co-founded.    Marlo has produced eight bestselling books (three of them New York Times #1 bestsellers), including: Free to Be You and Me; Free to Be a Family; The Right Words at the Right Time (Volumes 1 and 2); Thanks and Giving: All Year Long (which became a Grammy-winning CD); her memoir, Growing Up Laughing; It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over; and in 2020, What Makes a Marriage Last, which she co-authored with her husband, talk show pioneer Phil Donahue.   For her activism, Marlo has been honored with the Helen Caldicott Award for Nuclear Disarmament; the ACLU's Thomas Paine Award; the American Women in Radio and Television Satellite Award; the William Kunstler Racial Justice Award; The National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award; and The Jefferson Award for Public Service, which she received along with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.   Marlo is the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded by her father, Danny Thomas, in 1962. After his death, she became the face and voice of St. Jude; and in 2004, she created the hospital’s annual Thanks and Giving campaign, a national holiday fundraising and awareness program that has raised more than one billion dollars to date. In 2014, in recognition of her commitment to the hospital, St. Jude christened its newest building The Marlo Thomas Center for Global Education and Collaboration.  Marlo began 2021 with a bang. In February, she launched her own line of unique tabletop settings in partnership with home furnishings giant Williams Sonoma. Tapping into Marlo’s renown as the consummate hostess, Williams Sonoma invited her to recreate dozens of the unique pieces she has discovered over decades of world travel, from the porcelain markets in Kyoto, Japan, to the iconic Portobello Road in London. And in March, Marlo and Phil will debut their original podcast series about marriage, “Double Date,” featuring intimate conversations with long-married celebrity couples—from Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, to Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, to Elton John and David Furnish. The series is based on the couple’s bestselling book, What Makes a Marriage Last, and is produced by Pushkin Industries. Connect with Marlo Thomas: Williams Sonoma Collection Instagram  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community.  Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 - You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come. Fri, 14 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Marlo Thomas: Leading with Conviction and Preparing for Success full 668 LuAnn Nigara Today with Marlo Thomas: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Marlo Thomas of the hit show, That Girl, shares the story of how her father’s diligence shaped her path to success and how her mother’s graciousness inspired her own product line with... Today with Marlo Thomas: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Marlo Thomas of the hit show, That Girl, shares the story of how her father’s diligence shaped her path to success and how her mother’s graciousness inspired her own product line with Williams Sonoma. She also shares her moment of self-doubt on her way to wild success in show business and how to lead with conviction so you can make a difference. Pick it apart: [11:15] Marlo shares her advice to young people   [14:50] Marlo talks about how her father was her example of what it took to be successful    [21:00] Marlo shares how she came to call the shots for the storyline of That Girl   [27:00] LuAnn and Marlo chat about getting started with her women’s charity   [32:00] Marlo shares about Free to Be You   [40:03] Marlo tells about when she first met her husband   [44:00] Marlo shares what inspired her William Sonoma collection LuAnn and Marlo Thomas’s Ah-Ha moments: “Everybody gets a first chance but not everybody gets a second chance - so be ready for that first chance.” - Marlo Thomas   “If you believe something really strongly, it’s probably true.” - Marlo Thomas More About Marlo Thomas: Marlo Thomas is an award-winning actress, author and activist whose body of work continues to impact American entertainment and culture. She has been honored with four Emmy Awards, the Peabody, a Golden Globe and a Grammy, and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame. In November 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest honor a civilian can receive—by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony.   Marlo burst onto the scene as television’s That Girl, which broke new ground for independent women everywhere, and which she also conceived and produced. Her pioneering spirit continued with her creation of Free to Be...You and Me, which became a platinum album, best-selling book, Emmy Award-winning television special and a stage show. Proceeds from this project went toward the formation of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which was co-founded.    Marlo has produced eight bestselling books (three of them New York Times #1 bestsellers), including: Free to Be You and Me; Free to Be a Family; The Right Words at the Right Time (Volumes 1 and 2); Thanks and Giving: All Year Long (which became a Grammy-winning CD); her memoir, Growing Up Laughing; It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over; and in 2020, What Makes a Marriage Last, which she co-authored with her husband, talk show pioneer Phil Donahue.   For her activism, Marlo has been honored with the Helen Caldicott Award for Nuclear Disarmament; the ACLU's Thomas Paine Award; the American Women in Radio and Television Satellite Award; the William Kunstler Racial Justice Award; The National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award; and The Jefferson Award for Public Service, which she received along with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.   Marlo is the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded by her father, Danny Thomas, in 1962. After his death, she became the face and voice of St. Jude; and in 2004, she created the hospital’s annual Thanks and Giving campaign, a national holiday fundraising and awareness program that has raised more than one billion dollars to date. In 2014, in recognition of her commitment to the hospital, St. Jude christened its newest building The Marlo Thomas Center for Global Education and Collaboration.  Marlo began 2021 with a bang. In February, she launched her own line of unique tabletop settings in partnership with home furnishings giant Williams Sonoma. Tapping into Marlo’s renown as the consummate hostess, Williams Sonoma invited her to recreate dozens of the unique pieces she has discovered over decades of world travel, from the porcelain markets in Kyoto, Japan, to the iconic Portobello Road in London. And in March, Marlo and Phil will debut their original podcast series about marriage, “Double Date,” featuring intimate conversations with long-married celebrity couples—from Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, to Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, to Elton John and David Furnish. The series is based on the couple’s bestselling book, What Makes a Marriage Last, and is produced by Pushkin Industries. Connect with Marlo Thomas: Williams Sonoma Collection Instagram  Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community.  Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 - You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come. Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Marlo Thomas of the hit show, That Girl, shares the story of how her father’s diligence shaped her path to success and how her mother’s graciousness inspired her own product line with Williams Sonoma. She also shares her moment of self-doubt on her way to wild success in show business and how to lead with conviction so you can make a difference.

Pick it apart:

[11:15] Marlo shares her advice to young people

 

[14:50] Marlo talks about how her father was her example of what it took to be successful 

 

[21:00] Marlo shares how she came to call the shots for the storyline of That Girl

 

[27:00] LuAnn and Marlo chat about getting started with her women’s charity

 

[32:00] Marlo shares about Free to Be You

 

[40:03] Marlo tells about when she first met her husband

 

[44:00] Marlo shares what inspired her William Sonoma collection

LuAnn and Marlo Thomas’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Everybody gets a first chance but not everybody gets a second chance - so be ready for that first chance.” - Marlo Thomas

 

“If you believe something really strongly, it’s probably true.” - Marlo Thomas

More About Marlo Thomas:

Marlo Thomas is an award-winning actress, author and activist whose body of work continues to impact American entertainment and culture. She has been honored with four Emmy Awards, the Peabody, a Golden Globe and a Grammy, and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame. In November 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest honor a civilian can receive—by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony.

 

Marlo burst onto the scene as television’s That Girl, which broke new ground for independent women everywhere, and which she also conceived and produced. Her pioneering spirit continued with her creation of Free to Be...You and Me, which became a platinum album, best-selling book, Emmy Award-winning television special and a stage show. Proceeds from this project went toward the formation of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which was co-founded. 

 

Marlo has produced eight bestselling books (three of them New York Times #1 bestsellers), including: Free to Be You and Me; Free to Be a Family; The Right Words at the Right Time (Volumes 1 and 2); Thanks and Giving: All Year Long (which became a Grammy-winning CD); her memoir, Growing Up Laughing; It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over; and in 2020, What Makes a Marriage Last, which she co-authored with her husband, talk show pioneer Phil Donahue.

 

For her activism, Marlo has been honored with the Helen Caldicott Award for Nuclear Disarmament; the ACLU's Thomas Paine Award; the American Women in Radio and Television Satellite Award; the William Kunstler Racial Justice Award; The National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award; and The Jefferson Award for Public Service, which she received along with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

 

Marlo is the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded by her father, Danny Thomas, in 1962. After his death, she became the face and voice of St. Jude; and in 2004, she created the hospital’s annual Thanks and Giving campaign, a national holiday fundraising and awareness program that has raised more than one billion dollars to date. In 2014, in recognition of her commitment to the hospital, St. Jude christened its newest building The Marlo Thomas Center for Global Education and Collaboration. 

Marlo began 2021 with a bang. In February, she launched her own line of unique tabletop settings in partnership with home furnishings giant Williams Sonoma. Tapping into Marlo’s renown as the consummate hostess, Williams Sonoma invited her to recreate dozens of the unique pieces she has discovered over decades of world travel, from the porcelain markets in Kyoto, Japan, to the iconic Portobello Road in London. And in March, Marlo and Phil will debut their original podcast series about marriage, “Double Date,” featuring intimate conversations with long-married celebrity couples—from Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, to Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, to Elton John and David Furnish. The series is based on the couple’s bestselling book, What Makes a Marriage Last, and is produced by Pushkin Industries.

Connect with Marlo Thomas:

Williams Sonoma Collection

Instagram 

Podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet:

Kravet has been with me since the beginning of the show and I love them for it! They helped me to build this amazing community. 

Please check out Kravet if you’re looking for fabrics, wall coverings, trims and even quick ship furnishings. Go to Kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 - You’ll love their excellent service and your clients will appreciate the Kravet quality for years to come.

]]> 4557 no 667: Mark Weaver: Tips for Elevating Your Interior Design Career http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/667-mark-weaver-tips-for-elevating-your-interior-design-career Today with Mark Weaver: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Mark Weaver, an industry veteran launched his full-service LA-based design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates over thirty years ago. He’s a design expert, travel lover, and also a lecturer in the business of design at UCLA. Learn what his design students are so eager to learn and how he’s used travel to elevate his palette and create connections with his clients. Pick it apart: [21:24] Mark shares his advice to young designers entering the job market   [31:30] Mark shares who his own mentors in design, business, and personal life   [35:14] LuAnn and Mark discuss how travel informs design   [42:35] LuAnn and Mark talk about travel experience as a means of making your client comfortable with you   [47:57] Mark explains his philosophy on continual learning    [50:33] Mark shares the importance of gaining experience as a designer LuAnn and Mark Weaver’s Ah-Ha moments: “Ignorance is not an asset, intelligence is.” - Mark Weaver   “Surround yourself with successful, positive people.” - Mark Weaver’s friend and mentor, Donald   “You want to be around people who elevate you.” - Mark Weaver   “Travel is magic and an instrumental part of my career.” - Mark Weaver More About Mark Weaver: Over thirty years ago, Mark Weaver launched his eponymous, full-service design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates, headquartered in Los Angeles.   MWA’s extensive portfolio covers a diverse and distinctive body of work including residential installations, private aircraft, yachts and private island retreats. The firm’s work has spanned projects from Los Angeles to New York, restorations of historic estates in Nantucket and Santa Barbara, a townhouse in London, renovations and interiors for a 16th century palazzo in Piacenza, Italy. In addition, MWA has completed prestigious private corporate installations, including offices, for Fortune 500 companies.   In response to the recent stay at home orders, Mark developed a weekly Instagram live series, Designers at Home. It is a casual and informative discussion between Mark and fellow colleagues in the architecture and design industry. The half hour Instagram Live addresses all things design and architecture related, along with personal anecdotes and inspiration. Recent guests have included set director and three-time Emmy Award nominee, Peter Gurski, one of America’s leading sculptors Sabin Howard, renowned architect and artist Leo Marmol, art advisor extraordinaire Barbara Guggenheim, and Eleanor Schrader, Distinguished Instructor at UCLA Extension’s Architectural and Interior Design Program.   Mark regularly lectures at UCLA’s interior design program discussing topics such as business procedures, conducting oneself as a professional, the responsibilities as a designer, and resourcing materials. He is a founding member of both the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art as well as a member of the Decorative Arts Council for LACMA and a patron of the Los Angeles Opera. Mark has been recognized by a breadth of national and international publications, earning him a loyal following of clients around the world.   Connect with Mark Weaver: Website  Instagram   YouTube  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: You're busy, I get it. But are you the good kind of busy? The kind of busy that has you working on amazing projects with clients who trust you? Or, are you the kind of busy that stresses you out, and has you buried in admin work? It's time to take back your time, and get the platform that will become the core of your thriving design business - it's time to get on Mydoma Studio. And there's never been a better time, because right now they're having their Merry Month of May Sale, where you can get a whole 20% off any new annual plan subscription. So become the good kind of busy with Mydoma, and head on over to mydomastudio.com/merrymay to take advantage of one of their best deals of the year! Tue, 11 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Mark Weaver: Tips for Elevating Your Interior Design Career full 667 LuAnn Nigara Today with Mark Weaver: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Mark Weaver, an industry veteran launched his full-service LA-based design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates over thirty years ago. He’s a design expert, travel lover, and also a lecturer... Today with Mark Weaver: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Mark Weaver, an industry veteran launched his full-service LA-based design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates over thirty years ago. He’s a design expert, travel lover, and also a lecturer in the business of design at UCLA. Learn what his design students are so eager to learn and how he’s used travel to elevate his palette and create connections with his clients. Pick it apart: [21:24] Mark shares his advice to young designers entering the job market   [31:30] Mark shares who his own mentors in design, business, and personal life   [35:14] LuAnn and Mark discuss how travel informs design   [42:35] LuAnn and Mark talk about travel experience as a means of making your client comfortable with you   [47:57] Mark explains his philosophy on continual learning    [50:33] Mark shares the importance of gaining experience as a designer LuAnn and Mark Weaver’s Ah-Ha moments: “Ignorance is not an asset, intelligence is.” - Mark Weaver   “Surround yourself with successful, positive people.” - Mark Weaver’s friend and mentor, Donald   “You want to be around people who elevate you.” - Mark Weaver   “Travel is magic and an instrumental part of my career.” - Mark Weaver More About Mark Weaver: Over thirty years ago, Mark Weaver launched his eponymous, full-service design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates, headquartered in Los Angeles.   MWA’s extensive portfolio covers a diverse and distinctive body of work including residential installations, private aircraft, yachts and private island retreats. The firm’s work has spanned projects from Los Angeles to New York, restorations of historic estates in Nantucket and Santa Barbara, a townhouse in London, renovations and interiors for a 16th century palazzo in Piacenza, Italy. In addition, MWA has completed prestigious private corporate installations, including offices, for Fortune 500 companies.   In response to the recent stay at home orders, Mark developed a weekly Instagram live series, Designers at Home. It is a casual and informative discussion between Mark and fellow colleagues in the architecture and design industry. The half hour Instagram Live addresses all things design and architecture related, along with personal anecdotes and inspiration. Recent guests have included set director and three-time Emmy Award nominee, Peter Gurski, one of America’s leading sculptors Sabin Howard, renowned architect and artist Leo Marmol, art advisor extraordinaire Barbara Guggenheim, and Eleanor Schrader, Distinguished Instructor at UCLA Extension’s Architectural and Interior Design Program.   Mark regularly lectures at UCLA’s interior design program discussing topics such as business procedures, conducting oneself as a professional, the responsibilities as a designer, and resourcing materials. He is a founding member of both the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art as well as a member of the Decorative Arts Council for LACMA and a patron of the Los Angeles Opera. Mark has been recognized by a breadth of national and international publications, earning him a loyal following of clients around the world.   Connect with Mark Weaver: Website  Instagram   YouTube  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: You're busy, I get it. But are you the good kind of busy? The kind of busy that has you working on amazing projects with clients who trust you? Or, are you the kind of busy that stresses you out, and has you buried in admin work? It's time to take back your time, and get the platform that will become the core of your thriving design business - it's time to get on Mydoma Studio. And there's never been a better time, because right now they're having their Merry Month of May Sale, where you can get a whole 20% off any new annual plan subscription. So become the good kind of busy with Mydoma, and head on over to mydomastudio.com/merrymay to take advantage of one of their best deals of the year! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Mark Weaver, an industry veteran launched his full-service LA-based design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates over thirty years ago. He’s a design expert, travel lover, and also a lecturer in the business of design at UCLA. Learn what his design students are so eager to learn and how he’s used travel to elevate his palette and create connections with his clients.

Pick it apart:

[21:24] Mark shares his advice to young designers entering the job market

 

[31:30] Mark shares who his own mentors in design, business, and personal life

 

[35:14] LuAnn and Mark discuss how travel informs design

 

[42:35] LuAnn and Mark talk about travel experience as a means of making your client comfortable with you

 

[47:57] Mark explains his philosophy on continual learning 

 

[50:33] Mark shares the importance of gaining experience as a designer

LuAnn and Mark Weaver’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Ignorance is not an asset, intelligence is.” - Mark Weaver

 

“Surround yourself with successful, positive people.” - Mark Weaver’s friend and mentor, Donald

 

“You want to be around people who elevate you.” - Mark Weaver

 

“Travel is magic and an instrumental part of my career.” - Mark Weaver

More About Mark Weaver:

Over thirty years ago, Mark Weaver launched his eponymous, full-service design firm, Mark Weaver & Associates, headquartered in Los Angeles.

 

MWA’s extensive portfolio covers a diverse and distinctive body of work including residential installations, private aircraft, yachts and private island retreats. The firm’s work has spanned projects from Los Angeles to New York, restorations of historic estates in Nantucket and Santa Barbara, a townhouse in London, renovations and interiors for a 16th century palazzo in Piacenza, Italy. In addition, MWA has completed prestigious private corporate installations, including offices, for Fortune 500 companies.

 

In response to the recent stay at home orders, Mark developed a weekly Instagram live series, Designers at Home. It is a casual and informative discussion between Mark and fellow colleagues in the architecture and design industry. The half hour Instagram Live addresses all things design and architecture related, along with personal anecdotes and inspiration. Recent guests have included set director and three-time Emmy Award nominee, Peter Gurski, one of America’s leading sculptors Sabin Howard, renowned architect and artist Leo Marmol, art advisor extraordinaire Barbara Guggenheim, and Eleanor Schrader, Distinguished Instructor at UCLA Extension’s Architectural and Interior Design Program.

 

Mark regularly lectures at UCLA’s interior design program discussing topics such as business procedures, conducting oneself as a professional, the responsibilities as a designer, and resourcing materials. He is a founding member of both the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art as well as a member of the Decorative Arts Council for LACMA and a patron of the Los Angeles Opera. Mark has been recognized by a breadth of national and international publications, earning him a loyal following of clients around the world.

  Connect with Mark Weaver:

Website 

Instagram  

YouTube 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

You're busy, I get it. But are you the good kind of busy? The kind of busy that has you working on amazing projects with clients who trust you? Or, are you the kind of busy that stresses you out, and has you buried in admin work?

It's time to take back your time, and get the platform that will become the core of your thriving design business - it's time to get on Mydoma Studio.

And there's never been a better time, because right now they're having their Merry Month of May Sale, where you can get a whole 20% off any new annual plan subscription.

So become the good kind of busy with Mydoma, and head on over to mydomastudio.com/merrymay to take advantage of one of their best deals of the year!

]]> 3124 no 666: Power Talk Friday: What Would Lu Do? When Your Client Goes Off the Rails http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/666-power-talk-friday-what-would-lu-do   Today on A Well-Designed Business®: Today is a What Would Lu Do Show where I bring you listener questions, and....you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today's listener question comes to us from a designer who is in a difficult spot with a client. It just goes to show, no matter how long you have been in business, there are always those projects that teach us a thing or two about ourselves, our business, and where we can do better the next time.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 07 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: What Would Lu Do? When Your Client Goes Off the Rails full 666 LuAnn Nigara   Today on A Well-Designed Business®: Today is a What Would Lu Do Show where I bring you listener questions, and....you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today's listener question comes to us from a designer who is in a difficult spot with...   Today on A Well-Designed Business®: Today is a What Would Lu Do Show where I bring you listener questions, and....you guessed it, tell you what I would do! Today's listener question comes to us from a designer who is in a difficult spot with a client. It just goes to show, no matter how long you have been in business, there are always those projects that teach us a thing or two about ourselves, our business, and where we can do better the next time.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today is a What Would Lu Do Show where I bring you listener questions, and....you guessed it, tell you what I would do!

Today's listener question comes to us from a designer who is in a difficult spot with a client. It just goes to show, no matter how long you have been in business, there are always those projects that teach us a thing or two about ourselves, our business, and where we can do better the next time. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 3228 no 665: Cathy Maready: Listen and Observe Your Client to Unlock Your Interior Design Inspiration http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/665-cathy-maready-listen-and-observe-your-client-to-unlock-your-interior-design-inspiration Today with Cathy Maready: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Cathy Maready shares a special piece of relationship-building wisdom she’s gained from running her North Carolina interior design business called Elephant Ears, since 1990. She also has a clever way to take the ick-factor out of your budget conversation with clients. She’s stacked several key skills to produce a successful business and thrilled clients. Pick it apart: [19:22] LuAnn recaps the importance of integrating a client’s passion and story into their design [35:52] Cathy shares how she has the budget conversation with clients [42:07] LuAnn and Cathy review the angle they use when talking about budget [48:03] Cathy share about how she handles potential clients who don’t have sufficient budget LuAnn and Cathy Maready’s Ah-Ha moments: “You got personality, budget and expectations. There has to be a beautiful balance before you’ve got a beautiful project.” - Cathy Maready   “Not all projects are photo worthy.” - Cathy Maready More About Cathy Maready:  Cathy has been practicing interior design since 1990 and is an Allied ASID member. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Chaminade University in Honolulu and graduated magna cum laude. After traveling the globe in her younger days, Cathy began an import business where she designed her own furniture and accessory line. ​ Upon settling back into her home state of North Carolina, she opted for a more personal level of design where she could apply her creations to specific environments. Through Elephant Ears, her successful interior design business, a diverse client base has allowed Cathy to work on multi-level and multi-million dollar commercial and residential projects in both domestic and international arenas. ​Cathy also holds a commercial pilot license and loves animals. So, Pegasus would be her perfect ride. Connect with Cathy Maready: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods can help designers easily add hardwood flooring to their full-service offerings, regardless of your experience in specifying wood flooring.  With their expert knowledge and service, Revel Woods walks you through the entire process and stays with you from the initial sampling through installation.  With true wholesale pricing, you are now competitive with the flooring retailers on the highway.  Learn more today--- go to revelwoods.com and open your pro account.    Tue, 04 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Cathy Maready: Listen and Observe Your Client to Unlock Your Interior Design Inspiration full 665 LuAnn Nigara Today with Cathy Maready: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Cathy Maready shares a special piece of relationship-building wisdom she’s gained from running her North Carolina interior design business called Elephant Ears, since 1990. She also has... Today with Cathy Maready: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Cathy Maready shares a special piece of relationship-building wisdom she’s gained from running her North Carolina interior design business called Elephant Ears, since 1990. She also has a clever way to take the ick-factor out of your budget conversation with clients. She’s stacked several key skills to produce a successful business and thrilled clients. Pick it apart: [19:22] LuAnn recaps the importance of integrating a client’s passion and story into their design [35:52] Cathy shares how she has the budget conversation with clients [42:07] LuAnn and Cathy review the angle they use when talking about budget [48:03] Cathy share about how she handles potential clients who don’t have sufficient budget LuAnn and Cathy Maready’s Ah-Ha moments: “You got personality, budget and expectations. There has to be a beautiful balance before you’ve got a beautiful project.” - Cathy Maready   “Not all projects are photo worthy.” - Cathy Maready More About Cathy Maready:  Cathy has been practicing interior design since 1990 and is an Allied ASID member. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Chaminade University in Honolulu and graduated magna cum laude. After traveling the globe in her younger days, Cathy began an import business where she designed her own furniture and accessory line. ​ Upon settling back into her home state of North Carolina, she opted for a more personal level of design where she could apply her creations to specific environments. Through Elephant Ears, her successful interior design business, a diverse client base has allowed Cathy to work on multi-level and multi-million dollar commercial and residential projects in both domestic and international arenas. ​Cathy also holds a commercial pilot license and loves animals. So, Pegasus would be her perfect ride. Connect with Cathy Maready: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods can help designers easily add hardwood flooring to their full-service offerings, regardless of your experience in specifying wood flooring.  With their expert knowledge and service, Revel Woods walks you through the entire process and stays with you from the initial sampling through installation.  With true wholesale pricing, you are now competitive with the flooring retailers on the highway.  Learn more today--- go to revelwoods.com and open your pro account.    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Cathy Maready shares a special piece of relationship-building wisdom she’s gained from running her North Carolina interior design business called Elephant Ears, since 1990. She also has a clever way to take the ick-factor out of your budget conversation with clients. She’s stacked several key skills to produce a successful business and thrilled clients.

Pick it apart:

  • [19:22] LuAnn recaps the importance of integrating a client’s passion and story into their design

    [35:52] Cathy shares how she has the budget conversation with clients

    [42:07] LuAnn and Cathy review the angle they use when talking about budget

    [48:03] Cathy share about how she handles potential clients who don’t have sufficient budget

LuAnn and Cathy Maready’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You got personality, budget and expectations. There has to be a beautiful balance before you’ve got a beautiful project.” - Cathy Maready

 

“Not all projects are photo worthy.” - Cathy Maready

More About Cathy Maready:  Cathy has been practicing interior design since 1990 and is an Allied ASID member. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Chaminade University in Honolulu and graduated magna cum laude. After traveling the globe in her younger days, Cathy began an import business where she designed her own furniture and accessory line. ​ Upon settling back into her home state of North Carolina, she opted for a more personal level of design where she could apply her creations to specific environments. Through Elephant Ears, her successful interior design business, a diverse client base has allowed Cathy to work on multi-level and multi-million dollar commercial and residential projects in both domestic and international arenas. ​Cathy also holds a commercial pilot license and loves animals. So, Pegasus would be her perfect ride. Connect with Cathy Maready:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest  

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods can help designers easily add hardwood flooring to their full-service offerings, regardless of your experience in specifying wood flooring. 

With their expert knowledge and service, Revel Woods walks you through the entire process and stays with you from the initial sampling through installation. 

With true wholesale pricing, you are now competitive with the flooring retailers on the highway. 

Learn more today--- go to revelwoods.com and open your pro account. 

 

]]> 3604 no 664: Power Talk Friday: Michael Schneider: Virtual Matchmaker for the Interior Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/664-power-talk-friday-michael-schneider-virtual-matchmaker-for-the-interior-design-industry-0 Today with Michael Schneider Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Michael Schneider founded BDNY and now he’s in the business of connecting interior designers and suppliers in a whole new way with Next Virtual Meetings. Using the speed dating concept, Michael offers designers an easy way to source new products and build vendor relationships right from your living room. Pick it apart: [8:03] Michael review what happens at the Next Virtual Meetings 30-minute session   [15:34] Michael shares the process an interior designer uses to sign up for his service   [19:40] LuAnn asks Michael why he pays designers to attend meetings   [24:13] Michael share about his “land cruise” speed dating type event for designers and suppliers   [31:57] Michael reviews how suppliers can participate in his event   [35:00] LuAnn reviews Michael’s opportunities for designers LuAnn and Michael Schneider’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to be nimble. You have to be willing to pivot and figure out where the opportunities are—because they’re there.” - Michael Schneider More About Michael Schneider: Michael Schneider, Founder and CEO of NEXT Events is a hospitality industry connector and business leader. Michael founded the Boutique Design brand in 2005, which now encompasses a magazine, face-to-face events, and the highest regarded hospitality interior design trade show in the world (BDNY). Recently, Boutique Design was acquired for a second time by a publicly-traded company for $45M. As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has spent the last 15 years leveraging relationships and developing innovative ways for his clients to market their business. Now, Michael is looking forward to reinventing and transforming the hospitality interior design industry all over again. Michael enjoys fitness, flying planes, and hanging out in his upstate home with his wife, three sons, and rescue dog. Connect with Michael Schneider: https://nexteventsusa.com/ https://nextvirtualmeetings.com/ https://hospitalitycares.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldschneider5 https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-virtual-meetings?trk=public_profile_topcard_current_company What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for “Design Discussions with Barry Lantz.” on May 4th at [10:00] AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, “Canvas to Cloth.” Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!   Fri, 30 Apr 2021 07:02:07 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michael Schneider: Virtual Matchmaker for the Interior Design Industry full 664 LuAnn Nigara Today with Michael Schneider Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Michael Schneider founded BDNY and now he’s in the business of connecting interior designers and suppliers in a whole new way with Next Virtual Meetings. Using the speed dating... Today with Michael Schneider Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Michael Schneider founded BDNY and now he’s in the business of connecting interior designers and suppliers in a whole new way with Next Virtual Meetings. Using the speed dating concept, Michael offers designers an easy way to source new products and build vendor relationships right from your living room. Pick it apart: [8:03] Michael review what happens at the Next Virtual Meetings 30-minute session   [15:34] Michael shares the process an interior designer uses to sign up for his service   [19:40] LuAnn asks Michael why he pays designers to attend meetings   [24:13] Michael share about his “land cruise” speed dating type event for designers and suppliers   [31:57] Michael reviews how suppliers can participate in his event   [35:00] LuAnn reviews Michael’s opportunities for designers LuAnn and Michael Schneider’s Ah-Ha moments: “You have to be nimble. You have to be willing to pivot and figure out where the opportunities are—because they’re there.” - Michael Schneider More About Michael Schneider: Michael Schneider, Founder and CEO of NEXT Events is a hospitality industry connector and business leader. Michael founded the Boutique Design brand in 2005, which now encompasses a magazine, face-to-face events, and the highest regarded hospitality interior design trade show in the world (BDNY). Recently, Boutique Design was acquired for a second time by a publicly-traded company for $45M. As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has spent the last 15 years leveraging relationships and developing innovative ways for his clients to market their business. Now, Michael is looking forward to reinventing and transforming the hospitality interior design industry all over again. Michael enjoys fitness, flying planes, and hanging out in his upstate home with his wife, three sons, and rescue dog. Connect with Michael Schneider: https://nexteventsusa.com/ https://nextvirtualmeetings.com/ https://hospitalitycares.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldschneider5 https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-virtual-meetings?trk=public_profile_topcard_current_company What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for “Design Discussions with Barry Lantz.” on May 4th at [10:00] AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, “Canvas to Cloth.” Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Michael Schneider founded BDNY and now he’s in the business of connecting interior designers and suppliers in a whole new way with Next Virtual Meetings. Using the speed dating concept, Michael offers designers an easy way to source new products and build vendor relationships right from your living room.

Pick it apart:

[8:03] Michael review what happens at the Next Virtual Meetings 30-minute session

 

[15:34] Michael shares the process an interior designer uses to sign up for his service

 

[19:40] LuAnn asks Michael why he pays designers to attend meetings

 

[24:13] Michael share about his “land cruise” speed dating type event for designers and suppliers

 

[31:57] Michael reviews how suppliers can participate in his event

 

[35:00] LuAnn reviews Michael’s opportunities for designers

LuAnn and Michael Schneider’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You have to be nimble. You have to be willing to pivot and figure out where the opportunities are—because they’re there.” - Michael Schneider

More About Michael Schneider:

Michael Schneider, Founder and CEO of NEXT Events is a hospitality industry connector and business leader. Michael founded the Boutique Design brand in 2005, which now encompasses a magazine, face-to-face events, and the highest regarded hospitality interior design trade show in the world (BDNY). Recently, Boutique Design was acquired for a second time by a publicly-traded company for $45M. As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has spent the last 15 years leveraging relationships and developing innovative ways for his clients to market their business. Now, Michael is looking forward to reinventing and transforming the hospitality interior design industry all over again. Michael enjoys fitness, flying planes, and hanging out in his upstate home with his wife, three sons, and rescue dog.

Connect with Michael Schneider:

https://nexteventsusa.com/

https://nextvirtualmeetings.com/

https://hospitalitycares.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldschneider5

https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-virtual-meetings?trk=public_profile_topcard_current_company

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet:

The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for “Design Discussions with Barry Lantz.” on May 4th at [10:00] AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, “Canvas to Cloth.”

Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!

 

]]> 2577 no 663: Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/663-andrea-hysmith-pivoting-and-flexibility-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Andrea Hysmith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Goal-setting isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we write a list of goals and never take any steps to get there. Other times, we become so obsessed with the goals that we develop tunnel vision and fail to see when we need to adapt. All too often, unexpected situations derail our goals entirely.  My guest today, Andrea Hysmith, has found the balance between flexibility and structure that allows her to pivot when the unexpected happens, maintaining a commitment to strong client experiences and to her business values. Today, she’s sharing her insights on how to do that, no matter what comes your way. Pick it apart: [5:50] Andrea shares her part-organic, part-structured process to goal-setting. [11:10] Andrea breaks down the steps she takes to bring in a steady stream of referrals and network-based clients. [16:12] Andrea discusses her unique process to building relationships with her clients. [36:25] Andrea shares the journey she took to open her brick-and-mortar studio, the first black-owned business in her neighborhood. [45:00] LuAnn and Andrea dive into the experience and challenges of being a Black business owner. LuAnn and Andrea Hysmith’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, at least, when I have this structure in place, even if I have to adjust it, it gives me a guide.” -Andrea Hysmith   “Always tell people what you do and ask for what you want.” -Andrea Hysmith   “It’s walking that line and really figuring out the people whose values align with yours and making sure that they’re a culture fit from one human to another.” -LuAnn Nigara   “We keep the goal, but we throw away some of the things we thought were attached to the goal and open our mind to what other way we can get to the goal.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Hysmith: Andrea Hysmith, CAPS; Associate ASID Andrea Harvey; Founder of ASH Interiors and Design is an Interiors Specialist, Kitchen and Bath Designer, Manufacturer Representative, Speaker and Presenter that has been sharing her knowledge of luxury design and products in the design industry for over twenty years. Her industry experience includes kitchen, bath, and interior design…focusing on residential and light commercial spaces. Her background as a manufacturer’s representative of luxury kitchen and bath products has increased her knowledge of products, skills in training and business development. Her relationships with the A&D Community have made her a well-recognized resource in the Washington Metro Market. Andrea recently opened her design studio and office space in Historic Ellicott City becoming the first woman of color to open a brick-and-mortar design space in this area. In this studio space, she works with design clients as well as B2B partners educating them on the luxury products the firm represents. Andrea is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) & Black Interior Design Network (BID). As well as an advisory board member of the Historic Ellicott City Board. Andrea loves connecting to her clients and peers…she is said to be relatable, knowledgeable, informative, and always fun. She believes that design is truly a lifestyle! Connect with Andrea Hysmith: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for "Design Discussions with Barry Lantz." on May 4th at 10:00 AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, "Canvas to Cloth." Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register! Other Shows Mentioned: #282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry     Tue, 27 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Andrea Hysmith: Structure and Flexibility, Keys to Reaching Goals in Your Interior Design Business full 663 LuAnn Nigara Today with Andrea Hysmith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Goal-setting isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we write a list of goals and never take any steps to get there. Other times, we become so obsessed with the goals that we develop tunnel... Today with Andrea Hysmith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Goal-setting isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we write a list of goals and never take any steps to get there. Other times, we become so obsessed with the goals that we develop tunnel vision and fail to see when we need to adapt. All too often, unexpected situations derail our goals entirely.  My guest today, Andrea Hysmith, has found the balance between flexibility and structure that allows her to pivot when the unexpected happens, maintaining a commitment to strong client experiences and to her business values. Today, she’s sharing her insights on how to do that, no matter what comes your way. Pick it apart: [5:50] Andrea shares her part-organic, part-structured process to goal-setting. [11:10] Andrea breaks down the steps she takes to bring in a steady stream of referrals and network-based clients. [16:12] Andrea discusses her unique process to building relationships with her clients. [36:25] Andrea shares the journey she took to open her brick-and-mortar studio, the first black-owned business in her neighborhood. [45:00] LuAnn and Andrea dive into the experience and challenges of being a Black business owner. LuAnn and Andrea Hysmith’s Ah-Ha moments: “For me, at least, when I have this structure in place, even if I have to adjust it, it gives me a guide.” -Andrea Hysmith   “Always tell people what you do and ask for what you want.” -Andrea Hysmith   “It’s walking that line and really figuring out the people whose values align with yours and making sure that they’re a culture fit from one human to another.” -LuAnn Nigara   “We keep the goal, but we throw away some of the things we thought were attached to the goal and open our mind to what other way we can get to the goal.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Andrea Hysmith: Andrea Hysmith, CAPS; Associate ASID Andrea Harvey; Founder of ASH Interiors and Design is an Interiors Specialist, Kitchen and Bath Designer, Manufacturer Representative, Speaker and Presenter that has been sharing her knowledge of luxury design and products in the design industry for over twenty years. Her industry experience includes kitchen, bath, and interior design…focusing on residential and light commercial spaces. Her background as a manufacturer’s representative of luxury kitchen and bath products has increased her knowledge of products, skills in training and business development. Her relationships with the A&D Community have made her a well-recognized resource in the Washington Metro Market. Andrea recently opened her design studio and office space in Historic Ellicott City becoming the first woman of color to open a brick-and-mortar design space in this area. In this studio space, she works with design clients as well as B2B partners educating them on the luxury products the firm represents. Andrea is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) & Black Interior Design Network (BID). As well as an advisory board member of the Historic Ellicott City Board. Andrea loves connecting to her clients and peers…she is said to be relatable, knowledgeable, informative, and always fun. She believes that design is truly a lifestyle! Connect with Andrea Hysmith: Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for "Design Discussions with Barry Lantz." on May 4th at 10:00 AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, "Canvas to Cloth." Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register! Other Shows Mentioned: #282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Goal-setting isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we write a list of goals and never take any steps to get there. Other times, we become so obsessed with the goals that we develop tunnel vision and fail to see when we need to adapt. All too often, unexpected situations derail our goals entirely.  My guest today, Andrea Hysmith, has found the balance between flexibility and structure that allows her to pivot when the unexpected happens, maintaining a commitment to strong client experiences and to her business values. Today, she’s sharing her insights on how to do that, no matter what comes your way.

Pick it apart:
  • [5:50] Andrea shares her part-organic, part-structured process to goal-setting.
  • [11:10] Andrea breaks down the steps she takes to bring in a steady stream of referrals and network-based clients.
  • [16:12] Andrea discusses her unique process to building relationships with her clients.
  • [36:25] Andrea shares the journey she took to open her brick-and-mortar studio, the first black-owned business in her neighborhood.
  • [45:00] LuAnn and Andrea dive into the experience and challenges of being a Black business owner.
LuAnn and Andrea Hysmith’s Ah-Ha moments:

“For me, at least, when I have this structure in place, even if I have to adjust it, it gives me a guide.” -Andrea Hysmith

 

“Always tell people what you do and ask for what you want.” -Andrea Hysmith

 

“It’s walking that line and really figuring out the people whose values align with yours and making sure that they’re a culture fit from one human to another.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“We keep the goal, but we throw away some of the things we thought were attached to the goal and open our mind to what other way we can get to the goal.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Andrea Hysmith:

Andrea Hysmith, CAPS; Associate ASID Andrea Harvey; Founder of ASH Interiors and Design is an Interiors Specialist, Kitchen and Bath Designer, Manufacturer Representative, Speaker and Presenter that has been sharing her knowledge of luxury design and products in the design industry for over twenty years. Her industry experience includes kitchen, bath, and interior design…focusing on residential and light commercial spaces. Her background as a manufacturer’s representative of luxury kitchen and bath products has increased her knowledge of products, skills in training and business development. Her relationships with the A&D Community have made her a well-recognized resource in the Washington Metro Market. Andrea recently opened her design studio and office space in Historic Ellicott City becoming the first woman of color to open a brick-and-mortar design space in this area. In this studio space, she works with design clients as well as B2B partners educating them on the luxury products the firm represents. Andrea is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) & Black Interior Design Network (BID). As well as an advisory board member of the Historic Ellicott City Board. Andrea loves connecting to her clients and peers…she is said to be relatable, knowledgeable, informative, and always fun. She believes that design is truly a lifestyle!

Connect with Andrea Hysmith:

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet:

The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for "Design Discussions with Barry Lantz." on May 4th at 10:00 AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, "Canvas to Cloth."

Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You

#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry

 

 

]]> 4015 no 662: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/662-terri-taylor-stepping-into-profitable-kitchen-remodels-sponsored-show-interior-design-business-academy Today with Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Terri Taylor of Interior Design Business Academy is back on the show to share her design business expertise and help you step into your space, confidently manage your projects, and pick up all the opportunities for profit. She’s also reviewing her truly golden Letter of Agreement that will change the way you approach your remodeling projects. To learn more about Terri's new class and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ LuAnn and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha moments: “Designers are the heart and soul of the projects.” - Terri Taylor   “You need to think of your fee as insurance to the client that the money is going to be spent is spent well and adds value at the end.” - Terri Taylor   “You don’t have to finish the project to get paid - you have to finish the design to get paid.” - Terri Taylor More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Terri Taylor's upcoming class: The Real Deal - Designer Remodeling Jobs for Profit You’ll be in class for a highly interactive three full days  May 19th, 20th, and 21st, 2021 It will be a mix of all the things:  worksheets  templates scripts  copies of letters of agreement Q&A time community, sharing, mindset work, and breakout groups And some dance! Early bird pricing is $797 until Tuesday, April 27th It goes to $1297 after that To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/   So what do you say? Want to stop giving away your time and learn how to set up a job so you’re paid properly?   Is Q2 the time to allow yourself to step into your space and bloom as a designer?   I think it is. Decide to be excellent. Other Shows Mentioned: episode 548 episode 602 Fri, 23 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: Stepping Into Profitable Kitchen Remodels. Sponsored Show: Interior Design Business Academy full 662 LuAnn Nigara Today with Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Terri Taylor of Interior Design Business Academy is back on the show to share her design business expertise and help you step into your space, confidently manage your projects, and pick... Today with Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Terri Taylor of Interior Design Business Academy is back on the show to share her design business expertise and help you step into your space, confidently manage your projects, and pick up all the opportunities for profit. She’s also reviewing her truly golden Letter of Agreement that will change the way you approach your remodeling projects. To learn more about Terri's new class and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ LuAnn and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha moments: “Designers are the heart and soul of the projects.” - Terri Taylor   “You need to think of your fee as insurance to the client that the money is going to be spent is spent well and adds value at the end.” - Terri Taylor   “You don’t have to finish the project to get paid - you have to finish the design to get paid.” - Terri Taylor More About Terri Taylor: Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Connect with Terri Taylor: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Terri Taylor's upcoming class: The Real Deal - Designer Remodeling Jobs for Profit You’ll be in class for a highly interactive three full days  May 19th, 20th, and 21st, 2021 It will be a mix of all the things:  worksheets  templates scripts  copies of letters of agreement Q&A time community, sharing, mindset work, and breakout groups And some dance! Early bird pricing is $797 until Tuesday, April 27th It goes to $1297 after that To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/   So what do you say? Want to stop giving away your time and learn how to set up a job so you’re paid properly?   Is Q2 the time to allow yourself to step into your space and bloom as a designer?   I think it is. Decide to be excellent. Other Shows Mentioned: episode 548 episode 602 Today with Terri Taylor:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Terri Taylor of Interior Design Business Academy is back on the show to share her design business expertise and help you step into your space, confidently manage your projects, and pick up all the opportunities for profit. She’s also reviewing her truly golden Letter of Agreement that will change the way you approach your remodeling projects.

  • To learn more about Terri's new class and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

LuAnn and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha moments:

“Designers are the heart and soul of the projects.” - Terri Taylor

 

“You need to think of your fee as insurance to the client that the money is going to be spent is spent well and adds value at the end.” - Terri Taylor

 

“You don’t have to finish the project to get paid - you have to finish the design to get paid.” - Terri Taylor

More About Terri Taylor:

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Connect with Terri Taylor:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Website

  • To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Terri Taylor's upcoming class: The Real Deal - Designer Remodeling Jobs for Profit

  • You’ll be in class for a highly interactive three full days 
  • May 19th, 20th, and 21st, 2021
  • It will be a mix of all the things: 
  • worksheets 
  • templates
  • scripts 
  • copies of letters of agreement
  • Q&A time
  • community, sharing, mindset work, and breakout groups
  • And some dance!
  • Early bird pricing is $797 until Tuesday, April 27th
  • It goes to $1297 after that
  • To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

 

So what do you say? Want to stop giving away your time and learn how to set up a job so you’re paid properly?

 

Is Q2 the time to allow yourself to step into your space and bloom as a designer?

 

I think it is. Decide to be excellent.

Other Shows Mentioned:

  • episode 548
  • episode 602
]]> 3515 no 661: Lucy Harris: 5 Steps to Launching Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/661-lucy-harris-5-steps-to-launching-your-interior-design-business   Today with Lucy Harris: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by New York City designer Lucy Harris. Lucy shares her top five “musts” for new interior design firms. This nine-year high-end design firm veteran has learned a thing or two about the non-negotiables when starting out on your own. Learn what Lucy did to get to where she is today! Pick it apart: [13:25] Lucy explains the need for community, the first of five musts when starting an interior design firm [17:57] Lucy shares her take on the importance of photography and photo styling [27:41] Lucy talks about how she approached outsourcing [36:14] Lucy and LuAnn share why creating an online presence is vital [48:35] Lucy shares the three reasons to consider taking a project LuAnn and Lucy Harris’ Ah-Ha moments: "People want to believe that you’re an amazing interior designer. And all it takes is one or two good enough projects to give people that confidence." - Lucy Harris "Starting a business is about making baby steps." - Lucy Harris More About Lucy Harris: Growing up in a modernist house in Concord, Massachusetts, Lucy Harris was surrounded by, and given an appreciation for thoughtful design. From her great-great grandparent’s eclectic art- and antiques-filled Federal townhouse in Beacon Hill (now the Nichols House Museum) to her great-grandparents’ Arts and Crafts summer home in Ipswich, Massachusetts to the Mid-Century house where she currently lives in Westchester’s Usonia, Lucy has always surrounded herself with thoughtful, beautiful, timeless design. Building on that heritage, Lucy continues to be influenced by many different movements in art and design, from the Bauhaus to Minimalism. Eclecticism is at the root of her designs, and her work is reminiscent of the “impossible bouquets” of Dutch Master painters, in which flowers that would not normally grow together exist side-by-side in the name of art. An avid traveler who has lived in Rome and Milan, Lucy visits Europe often for inspiration, and sources furniture, rugs, lighting and materials from all over the world. She also works with skilled craftspeople from Los Angeles to Brooklyn to realize her custom designs. Connect with Lucy Harris: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: I am honored to be on the Window coverings Association of America (WCAA) national board and I cannot tell you enough about my colleagues in this organization. We have chapters all over the US. Both Vita and I are members and I encourage you to do the same. For designers, it’s where you can meet the trusted trades to help you offer the best window treatments to your clients, and for us window treatment pros, it’s where you can stay on top of resources and education to make sure you are delivering your A-game. Go to wcaa.org   The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021, and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference       Other Shows Mentioned: Stephen Karlisch #369 Charlotte Safavi - #623 Mike Van Tassell- #563 Raquel Langworthy- #343 David Livingston- #51 Sarah Winchester - #444 Jessica Delaney- #630     Tue, 20 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Lucy Harris: 5 Steps to Launching Your Interior Design Business full 661 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Lucy Harris: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by New York City designer Lucy Harris. Lucy shares her top five “musts” for new interior design firms. This nine-year high-end design firm veteran has...   Today with Lucy Harris: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by New York City designer Lucy Harris. Lucy shares her top five “musts” for new interior design firms. This nine-year high-end design firm veteran has learned a thing or two about the non-negotiables when starting out on your own. Learn what Lucy did to get to where she is today! Pick it apart: [13:25] Lucy explains the need for community, the first of five musts when starting an interior design firm [17:57] Lucy shares her take on the importance of photography and photo styling [27:41] Lucy talks about how she approached outsourcing [36:14] Lucy and LuAnn share why creating an online presence is vital [48:35] Lucy shares the three reasons to consider taking a project LuAnn and Lucy Harris’ Ah-Ha moments: "People want to believe that you’re an amazing interior designer. And all it takes is one or two good enough projects to give people that confidence." - Lucy Harris "Starting a business is about making baby steps." - Lucy Harris More About Lucy Harris: Growing up in a modernist house in Concord, Massachusetts, Lucy Harris was surrounded by, and given an appreciation for thoughtful design. From her great-great grandparent’s eclectic art- and antiques-filled Federal townhouse in Beacon Hill (now the Nichols House Museum) to her great-grandparents’ Arts and Crafts summer home in Ipswich, Massachusetts to the Mid-Century house where she currently lives in Westchester’s Usonia, Lucy has always surrounded herself with thoughtful, beautiful, timeless design. Building on that heritage, Lucy continues to be influenced by many different movements in art and design, from the Bauhaus to Minimalism. Eclecticism is at the root of her designs, and her work is reminiscent of the “impossible bouquets” of Dutch Master painters, in which flowers that would not normally grow together exist side-by-side in the name of art. An avid traveler who has lived in Rome and Milan, Lucy visits Europe often for inspiration, and sources furniture, rugs, lighting and materials from all over the world. She also works with skilled craftspeople from Los Angeles to Brooklyn to realize her custom designs. Connect with Lucy Harris: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: I am honored to be on the Window coverings Association of America (WCAA) national board and I cannot tell you enough about my colleagues in this organization. We have chapters all over the US. Both Vita and I are members and I encourage you to do the same. For designers, it’s where you can meet the trusted trades to help you offer the best window treatments to your clients, and for us window treatment pros, it’s where you can stay on top of resources and education to make sure you are delivering your A-game. Go to wcaa.org   The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021, and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference       Other Shows Mentioned: Stephen Karlisch #369 Charlotte Safavi - #623 Mike Van Tassell- #563 Raquel Langworthy- #343 David Livingston- #51 Sarah Winchester - #444 Jessica Delaney- #630     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by New York City designer Lucy Harris. Lucy shares her top five “musts” for new interior design firms. This nine-year high-end design firm veteran has learned a thing or two about the non-negotiables when starting out on your own. Learn what Lucy did to get to where she is today!

Pick it apart:

[13:25] Lucy explains the need for community, the first of five musts when starting an interior design firm

[17:57] Lucy shares her take on the importance of photography and photo styling

[27:41] Lucy talks about how she approached outsourcing

[36:14] Lucy and LuAnn share why creating an online presence is vital

[48:35] Lucy shares the three reasons to consider taking a project

LuAnn and Lucy Harris’ Ah-Ha moments:

"People want to believe that you’re an amazing interior designer. And all it takes is one or two good enough projects to give people that confidence." - Lucy Harris

"Starting a business is about making baby steps." - Lucy Harris

More About Lucy Harris:

Growing up in a modernist house in Concord, Massachusetts, Lucy Harris was surrounded by, and given an appreciation for thoughtful design. From her great-great grandparent’s eclectic art- and antiques-filled Federal townhouse in Beacon Hill (now the Nichols House Museum) to her great-grandparents’ Arts and Crafts summer home in Ipswich, Massachusetts to the Mid-Century house where she currently lives in Westchester’s Usonia, Lucy has always surrounded herself with thoughtful, beautiful, timeless design.

Building on that heritage, Lucy continues to be influenced by many different movements in art and design, from the Bauhaus to Minimalism. Eclecticism is at the root of her designs, and her work is reminiscent of the “impossible bouquets” of Dutch Master painters, in which flowers that would not normally grow together exist side-by-side in the name of art. An avid traveler who has lived in Rome and Milan, Lucy visits Europe often for inspiration, and sources furniture, rugs, lighting and materials from all over the world. She also works with skilled craftspeople from Los Angeles to Brooklyn to realize her custom designs.

Connect with Lucy Harris:

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

I am honored to be on the Window coverings Association of America (WCAA) national board and I cannot tell you enough about my colleagues in this organization. We have chapters all over the US. Both Vita and I are members and I encourage you to do the same. For designers, it’s where you can meet the trusted trades to help you offer the best window treatments to your clients, and for us window treatment pros, it’s where you can stay on top of resources and education to make sure you are delivering your A-game. Go to wcaa.org

 

The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021, and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference

 

 

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

  • Stephen Karlisch #369
  • Charlotte Safavi - #623
  • Mike Van Tassell- #563
  • Raquel Langworthy- #343
  • David Livingston- #51
  • Sarah Winchester - #444
  • Jessica Delaney- #630

 

 

]]> 4267 no 660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: "Interior Design Standard" http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/660-sandra-funk-level-up-your-business-through-mentorship-coaching-and-classes-sponsored-show-interior-design-standard  Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the "Interior Design Standard". I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the "Interior Design Standard", with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Here’s what you need to know: The Interior Design Standard is composed of modules that outline Sandra’s entire business. Within each module are resources that you can start using right away. She walks you through how to implement all of these templates via videos along the way. Program highlights include: Design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments Design agreement, that both clients and designers love The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press   Important dates for your calendar: April 21st - Registration opens!  April 28th - Enrollment closes at midnight May 3rd - Program begins   Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses: “A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide! The Interior Design Standard is incredible. I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!” - Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors    "The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.”  - Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors    It’s your turn, enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann   Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together. Mon, 19 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: "Interior Design Standard" full 660 LuAnn Nigara   Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the "Interior Design Standard". I’m so...  Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard."  Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the "Interior Design Standard". I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the "Interior Design Standard", with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Here’s what you need to know: The Interior Design Standard is composed of modules that outline Sandra’s entire business. Within each module are resources that you can start using right away. She walks you through how to implement all of these templates via videos along the way. Program highlights include: Design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments Design agreement, that both clients and designers love The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press   Important dates for your calendar: April 21st - Registration opens!  April 28th - Enrollment closes at midnight May 3rd - Program begins   Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses: “A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide! The Interior Design Standard is incredible. I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!” - Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors    "The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.”  - Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors    It’s your turn, enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann   Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together.  Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard." 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the "Interior Design Standard".

I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the "Interior Design Standard", with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business.

Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Here’s what you need to know:

The Interior Design Standard is composed of modules that outline Sandra’s entire business. Within each module are resources that you can start using right away. She walks you through how to implement all of these templates via videos along the way.

Program highlights include:

Design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments

Design agreement, that both clients and designers love

The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press

 

Important dates for your calendar:

April 21st - Registration opens! 

April 28th - Enrollment closes at midnight

May 3rd - Program begins

 

Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses:

“A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide! The Interior Design Standard is incredible. I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!”

- Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors 

 

"The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.” 

- Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors 

 

It’s your turn, enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

 

Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together.

]]> 2723 no 659: Power Talk Friday: Michelle Butt: A Unique Idea to Improve Your Sales http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/659-power-talk-friday-michelle-butt-a-unique-idea-to-your-improve-your-sales     Today with Michelle Butt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. By now, we all know that sales isn’t about convincing someone to buy what they don’t need or want. You care about your clients and their happiness. You want to make a sale that gives you the profits you want and provides your clients with something that will bring them happiness. Today, I’m talking with Michelle Butt, Master Coach and creator of Facial Intelligence, to talk about how using visual cues and facial features can help you relate to your clients in a stronger way, making the sales process even more of a win/win. Pick it apart: [1:37] Michelle defines what facial intelligence is and why a conscious understanding of faces is helpful for business owners. [13:50] Michelle gives us insight into the 5 Facial Archetypes and how to use them to relate to sales targets. [20:00] LuAnn and Michelle discuss the importance of understanding yourself before you can truly understand others.  [32:09] Michelle provides a key takeaway that can help you start applying Facial Intelligence right away.  [51:37] Michelle shares more ways you can use facial understanding to strengthen relationships with potential clients. LuAnn and Michelle Butt’s Ah-Ha moments: “We all do unconsciously read faces, and most of the time we read faces for expressions because there are universal expressions that we can mirror and match and understand. And we do unconsciously to some degree read features to understand what they mean, but most of us don’t consciously do that.” -Michelle Butt   “We tend to think, ‘Oh well if I like this, then all I have to do is tell people all the reasons why I like it, and then they’ll like it too and they’ll want to buy it,’ but really people want to be treated the way they want to be treated.” -Michelle Butt   “Sales is a win/win. Sales isn’t about convincing you to have something you don’t want or need. Sales is my responsibility to figure out what’s the best and most wonderful thing that will complete whatever it is you’re trying to do. So every tool that we can utilize in order to illuminate what it is that you want, need, and drives you, and will help you become more successful in connecting with that sales target or potential client—I love it.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Butt: Michelle Butt holds an Honours BA in Linguistics from The University of Toronto, is a Master Coach and a Facial Intelligence Expert. After more than 10 years of studying human communication and creating the Facial Intelligence™ body of work, Michelle has come to know a thing or two about how and what drives people to believe in someone else enough to buy from them. She’s built an understanding of how coaches, consultants and mentors need to show up to that crucial sales call in order to get that “yes” and truly begin the process of changing someone else’s life (and their own in the process). By creating and implementing the F.A.S.T Method (Facial Acuity Sales Tactics), she has helped herself and many other coaches and consultants to use the face of others as the blueprint and catalyst for gaining a client and increasing their business’s success and revenue. Michelle has been featured at TedXToronto, Reinvention Radio and OMTimes Magazine. All her research and results have shown that the face is the starting place of any transformational journey and leveraging the information you see in a face is the key to changing the results you are getting in your sales process. Connect with Michelle Butt: Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn   YouTube FAST Guide download link: www.michellebutt.com/fastguide What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch: Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrate with third-party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!    Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit kravet.com today to explore it for yourself.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team Fri, 16 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Michelle Butt: A Unique Idea to Improve Your Sales full 659 LuAnn Nigara     Today with Michelle Butt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. By now, we all know that sales isn’t about convincing someone to buy what they don’t need or want. You care about your clients and their happiness. You want to make a...     Today with Michelle Butt Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. By now, we all know that sales isn’t about convincing someone to buy what they don’t need or want. You care about your clients and their happiness. You want to make a sale that gives you the profits you want and provides your clients with something that will bring them happiness. Today, I’m talking with Michelle Butt, Master Coach and creator of Facial Intelligence, to talk about how using visual cues and facial features can help you relate to your clients in a stronger way, making the sales process even more of a win/win. Pick it apart: [1:37] Michelle defines what facial intelligence is and why a conscious understanding of faces is helpful for business owners. [13:50] Michelle gives us insight into the 5 Facial Archetypes and how to use them to relate to sales targets. [20:00] LuAnn and Michelle discuss the importance of understanding yourself before you can truly understand others.  [32:09] Michelle provides a key takeaway that can help you start applying Facial Intelligence right away.  [51:37] Michelle shares more ways you can use facial understanding to strengthen relationships with potential clients. LuAnn and Michelle Butt’s Ah-Ha moments: “We all do unconsciously read faces, and most of the time we read faces for expressions because there are universal expressions that we can mirror and match and understand. And we do unconsciously to some degree read features to understand what they mean, but most of us don’t consciously do that.” -Michelle Butt   “We tend to think, ‘Oh well if I like this, then all I have to do is tell people all the reasons why I like it, and then they’ll like it too and they’ll want to buy it,’ but really people want to be treated the way they want to be treated.” -Michelle Butt   “Sales is a win/win. Sales isn’t about convincing you to have something you don’t want or need. Sales is my responsibility to figure out what’s the best and most wonderful thing that will complete whatever it is you’re trying to do. So every tool that we can utilize in order to illuminate what it is that you want, need, and drives you, and will help you become more successful in connecting with that sales target or potential client—I love it.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Michelle Butt: Michelle Butt holds an Honours BA in Linguistics from The University of Toronto, is a Master Coach and a Facial Intelligence Expert. After more than 10 years of studying human communication and creating the Facial Intelligence™ body of work, Michelle has come to know a thing or two about how and what drives people to believe in someone else enough to buy from them. She’s built an understanding of how coaches, consultants and mentors need to show up to that crucial sales call in order to get that “yes” and truly begin the process of changing someone else’s life (and their own in the process). By creating and implementing the F.A.S.T Method (Facial Acuity Sales Tactics), she has helped herself and many other coaches and consultants to use the face of others as the blueprint and catalyst for gaining a client and increasing their business’s success and revenue. Michelle has been featured at TedXToronto, Reinvention Radio and OMTimes Magazine. All her research and results have shown that the face is the starting place of any transformational journey and leveraging the information you see in a face is the key to changing the results you are getting in your sales process. Connect with Michelle Butt: Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn   YouTube FAST Guide download link: www.michellebutt.com/fastguide What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch: Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrate with third-party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!    Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit kravet.com today to explore it for yourself.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. By now, we all know that sales isn’t about convincing someone to buy what they don’t need or want. You care about your clients and their happiness. You want to make a sale that gives you the profits you want and provides your clients with something that will bring them happiness. Today, I’m talking with Michelle Butt, Master Coach and creator of Facial Intelligence, to talk about how using visual cues and facial features can help you relate to your clients in a stronger way, making the sales process even more of a win/win.

Pick it apart:
  • [1:37] Michelle defines what facial intelligence is and why a conscious understanding of faces is helpful for business owners.
  • [13:50] Michelle gives us insight into the 5 Facial Archetypes and how to use them to relate to sales targets.
  • [20:00] LuAnn and Michelle discuss the importance of understanding yourself before you can truly understand others. 
  • [32:09] Michelle provides a key takeaway that can help you start applying Facial Intelligence right away. 
  • [51:37] Michelle shares more ways you can use facial understanding to strengthen relationships with potential clients.
LuAnn and Michelle Butt’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We all do unconsciously read faces, and most of the time we read faces for expressions because there are universal expressions that we can mirror and match and understand. And we do unconsciously to some degree read features to understand what they mean, but most of us don’t consciously do that.” -Michelle Butt

 

“We tend to think, ‘Oh well if I like this, then all I have to do is tell people all the reasons why I like it, and then they’ll like it too and they’ll want to buy it,’ but really people want to be treated the way they want to be treated.” -Michelle Butt

 

“Sales is a win/win. Sales isn’t about convincing you to have something you don’t want or need. Sales is my responsibility to figure out what’s the best and most wonderful thing that will complete whatever it is you’re trying to do. So every tool that we can utilize in order to illuminate what it is that you want, need, and drives you, and will help you become more successful in connecting with that sales target or potential client—I love it.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Michelle Butt:

Michelle Butt holds an Honours BA in Linguistics from The University of Toronto, is a Master Coach and a Facial Intelligence Expert.

After more than 10 years of studying human communication and creating the Facial Intelligence™ body of work, Michelle has come to know a thing or two about how and what drives people to believe in someone else enough to buy from them.

She’s built an understanding of how coaches, consultants and mentors need to show up to that crucial sales call in order to get that “yes” and truly begin the process of changing someone else’s life (and their own in the process).

By creating and implementing the F.A.S.T Method (Facial Acuity Sales Tactics), she has helped herself and many other coaches and consultants to use the face of others as the blueprint and catalyst for gaining a client and increasing their business’s success and revenue.

Michelle has been featured at TedXToronto, Reinvention Radio and OMTimes Magazine.

All her research and results have shown that the face is the starting place of any transformational journey and leveraging the information you see in a face is the key to changing the results you are getting in your sales process.

Connect with Michelle Butt:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn  

YouTube

FAST Guide download link: www.michellebutt.com/fastguide

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch: Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrate with third-party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more! 

 

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit kravet.com today to explore it for yourself. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

]]> 4866 no 658: Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/655-power-talk-friday-genevieve-trousdale-genevieve-trousdale-running-your-interior-design-business-on-your-own-terms Today with Genevieve Trousdale: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by Genevieve Trousdale. After coming from working in two large firms, Genevieve launched her own firm. She grew her business to serve luxury clients and tackle high-income projects. But unlike most other designers on her level, Genevieve chooses to keep some things simple, running her business on her own and taking on just a few projects per year. Today, we’re talking about how she manages it, why she chooses it, and the importance of staying true to your values in your business. Pick it apart: [7:18] Genevieve talks about the experience of working under great influences and what she learned along the way. [11:58] Genevieve shares why she chooses not to expand her firm and bring on other designers.  [20:44] Genevieve reveals what she looks for in others when she does need to outsource work. [25:03] LuAnn and Genevieve talk about the expectations in the design world and how to stick true to who you are. [33:51] Genevieve explains how she created a resource for other designers to get questions answered and form a community. LuAnn and Genevieve Trousdale’s Ah-Ha moments:  “This is amazing to me...it’s unusual that you’ve reached that level of design client but you’ve maintained the solo firm and you’re making money.” -LuAnn Nigara   “The pretty part, I can take care of. I like to take care of that. So I’m looking for someone with street smarts.” -Genevieve Trousdale   “There are pressures of ‘Why aren’t you scaling your company and searching for the next best thing.’ I am—but I’m doing it my own way.” -Genevieve Trousdale More About Genevieve Trousdale: Steeped in Southern tradition and influenced by sophisticated French style, Genevieve’s finely-honed design sense was originally fostered by two generations of discerning familial role models with exquisite taste. On assignment designing homes, chalets, and estates throughout Europe, the Middle East, and America, Genevieve developed inspired and inventive ideas for each client’s passions and desire for the very best.   Highly regarded for sophisticated design, meticulous attention to detail, creative sourcing of one-of-a-kind pieces, and the ability to manage thousands of special details at once – Genevieve has earned the respect and admiration of the most thoughtful and discriminating clients, worldwide.   Ms. Trousdale, a Louisiana-born designer, boasts a stunning repertoire of world-class projects from American ski chalets, a Parisian flat to a luxurious Middle Eastern palace. Working alongside top AD 100 industry icons, Genevieve is one of the nation’s most accomplished designers. Connect with Genevieve Trousdale: Circaphiles Website  Website Circaphiles Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch: your leaders in drapery hardware. Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!  Mydoma: The free industry-leading event for designers is back! This April 13th and 14th, get ready for the return of 19 Hours, a virtual design conference by Mydoma and A Well Designed Business. We all know by now that the world has changed, and while 2020 was very much about insulating yourself, and your business from what comes next, this year, it's time to learn the lessons that the industry has learned the hard way this past year, and set yourself up for success. It's time to make 2021 your year, with a number of panels, presentations, and talks from some amazing industry partners and experts. So what are you waiting for? It's a free event, so you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! Register for 19 Hours at mydomastudio.com/19hours. I'll see you there!   Other Shows Mentioned: #433 Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet #91 Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio Tue, 13 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms full 658 LuAnn Nigara Today with Genevieve Trousdale: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by Genevieve Trousdale. After coming from working in two large firms, Genevieve launched her own firm. She grew her business to serve luxury clients and... Today with Genevieve Trousdale: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by Genevieve Trousdale. After coming from working in two large firms, Genevieve launched her own firm. She grew her business to serve luxury clients and tackle high-income projects. But unlike most other designers on her level, Genevieve chooses to keep some things simple, running her business on her own and taking on just a few projects per year. Today, we’re talking about how she manages it, why she chooses it, and the importance of staying true to your values in your business. Pick it apart: [7:18] Genevieve talks about the experience of working under great influences and what she learned along the way. [11:58] Genevieve shares why she chooses not to expand her firm and bring on other designers.  [20:44] Genevieve reveals what she looks for in others when she does need to outsource work. [25:03] LuAnn and Genevieve talk about the expectations in the design world and how to stick true to who you are. [33:51] Genevieve explains how she created a resource for other designers to get questions answered and form a community. LuAnn and Genevieve Trousdale’s Ah-Ha moments:  “This is amazing to me...it’s unusual that you’ve reached that level of design client but you’ve maintained the solo firm and you’re making money.” -LuAnn Nigara   “The pretty part, I can take care of. I like to take care of that. So I’m looking for someone with street smarts.” -Genevieve Trousdale   “There are pressures of ‘Why aren’t you scaling your company and searching for the next best thing.’ I am—but I’m doing it my own way.” -Genevieve Trousdale More About Genevieve Trousdale: Steeped in Southern tradition and influenced by sophisticated French style, Genevieve’s finely-honed design sense was originally fostered by two generations of discerning familial role models with exquisite taste. On assignment designing homes, chalets, and estates throughout Europe, the Middle East, and America, Genevieve developed inspired and inventive ideas for each client’s passions and desire for the very best.   Highly regarded for sophisticated design, meticulous attention to detail, creative sourcing of one-of-a-kind pieces, and the ability to manage thousands of special details at once – Genevieve has earned the respect and admiration of the most thoughtful and discriminating clients, worldwide.   Ms. Trousdale, a Louisiana-born designer, boasts a stunning repertoire of world-class projects from American ski chalets, a Parisian flat to a luxurious Middle Eastern palace. Working alongside top AD 100 industry icons, Genevieve is one of the nation’s most accomplished designers. Connect with Genevieve Trousdale: Circaphiles Website  Website Circaphiles Instagram  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch: your leaders in drapery hardware. Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more!  Mydoma: The free industry-leading event for designers is back! This April 13th and 14th, get ready for the return of 19 Hours, a virtual design conference by Mydoma and A Well Designed Business. We all know by now that the world has changed, and while 2020 was very much about insulating yourself, and your business from what comes next, this year, it's time to learn the lessons that the industry has learned the hard way this past year, and set yourself up for success. It's time to make 2021 your year, with a number of panels, presentations, and talks from some amazing industry partners and experts. So what are you waiting for? It's a free event, so you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! Register for 19 Hours at mydomastudio.com/19hours. I'll see you there!   Other Shows Mentioned: #433 Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet #91 Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by Genevieve Trousdale. After coming from working in two large firms, Genevieve launched her own firm. She grew her business to serve luxury clients and tackle high-income projects. But unlike most other designers on her level, Genevieve chooses to keep some things simple, running her business on her own and taking on just a few projects per year. Today, we’re talking about how she manages it, why she chooses it, and the importance of staying true to your values in your business.

Pick it apart:

[7:18] Genevieve talks about the experience of working under great influences and what she learned along the way.

[11:58] Genevieve shares why she chooses not to expand her firm and bring on other designers. 

[20:44] Genevieve reveals what she looks for in others when she does need to outsource work.

[25:03] LuAnn and Genevieve talk about the expectations in the design world and how to stick true to who you are.

[33:51] Genevieve explains how she created a resource for other designers to get questions answered and form a community.

LuAnn and Genevieve Trousdale’s Ah-Ha moments:

 “This is amazing to me...it’s unusual that you’ve reached that level of design client but you’ve maintained the solo firm and you’re making money.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“The pretty part, I can take care of. I like to take care of that. So I’m looking for someone with street smarts.” -Genevieve Trousdale

 

“There are pressures of ‘Why aren’t you scaling your company and searching for the next best thing.’ I am—but I’m doing it my own way.” -Genevieve Trousdale

More About Genevieve Trousdale:

Steeped in Southern tradition and influenced by sophisticated French style, Genevieve’s finely-honed design sense was originally fostered by two generations of discerning familial role models with exquisite taste. On assignment designing homes, chalets, and estates throughout Europe, the Middle East, and America, Genevieve developed inspired and inventive ideas for each client’s passions and desire for the very best.

 

Highly regarded for sophisticated design, meticulous attention to detail, creative sourcing of one-of-a-kind pieces, and the ability to manage thousands of special details at once – Genevieve has earned the respect and admiration of the most thoughtful and discriminating clients, worldwide.

 

Ms. Trousdale, a Louisiana-born designer, boasts a stunning repertoire of world-class projects from American ski chalets, a Parisian flat to a luxurious Middle Eastern palace. Working alongside top AD 100 industry icons, Genevieve is one of the nation’s most accomplished designers.

Connect with Genevieve Trousdale:

Circaphiles Website 

Website

Circaphiles Instagram 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch: your leaders in drapery hardware. Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more! 

Mydoma:

The free industry-leading event for designers is back! This April 13th and 14th, get ready for the return of 19 Hours, a virtual design conference by Mydoma and A Well Designed Business.

We all know by now that the world has changed, and while 2020 was very much about insulating yourself, and your business from what comes next, this year, it's time to learn the lessons that the industry has learned the hard way this past year, and set yourself up for success. It's time to make 2021 your year, with a number of panels, presentations, and talks from some amazing industry partners and experts.

So what are you waiting for? It's a free event, so you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! Register for 19 Hours at mydomastudio.com/19hours. I'll see you there!

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#433 Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

#91 Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

]]> 3704 no 657: Power Talk Friday: Dolores Hirschmann: Unlock Your Message, Unlock Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/657-power-talk-friday-dolores-hirschmann-unlock-your-message-unlock-your-business Today with Dolores Hirschmann Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. When someone asks you what you do, how clear are you? Are you able to communicate what you do, the value you bring to the table, who you help, and what sets you apart? Or do you struggle to define what message you’re trying to put out with your business? The truth is that so many of us have trouble getting clear on our message, our differentiators, and our business. But until you gain that clarity, you’re going to hit roadblock after roadblock. Today, I chat with Dolores Hirschmann, a strategist and coach who helps her clients get that clarity in their message so they can start impacting the world. Pick it apart: [2:16] Dolores and LuAnn share why it’s so important to get clear about our message and how we communicate it.  [6:08] Dolores unpacks the way our belief systems impact our clarity. [22:28] Dolores breaks down her “9 Layers of Clarity” and how she uses the framework to help her clients. [41:28] LuAnn and Dolores dive into the process of tapping into your unique differentiator.   LuAnn and Dolores Hirschmann's Ah-Ha moments: “If people can’t ‘get’ what we do, if people cannot understand how we’re going to help them, it’s almost impossible for them to hire us.” -Dolores Hirschmann   “It is a rare time when you talk to someone and you say to them, ‘what do you do?’ and you get a straight-line answer. So often we talk in a circle.” -LuAnn Nigara   “What gets in the way of clarity is not more knowledge or sexy words—it’s our emotional state of being and our belief system.” -Dolores Hirschmann   “That’s the purpose of the proprietary system. Each of the designers listening to this podcast is unique in the way they approach the project. Each of them is unique in the way they interact with the client, in the way they go about the whole process. So there’s value in understanding your uniqueness because that’s your secret recipe.” -Dolores Hirschmann More About Dolores Hirschmann: Dolores is an internationally recognized STRATEGIST & COACH and has been a remote employee and virtual business owner for over 20 years. She helps clients clarify their “idea worth sharing”, design their communication strategies, and implement business growth systems. Her clients become speakers and authors and take their message to larger audiences like TEDx and beyond. She works through group coaching, workshops, one-on-one coaching, as well as public speaking. Dolores is a writer, TEDx Organizer, and CTI certified and ICF accredited coach with a business degree from the Universidad de San Andres, Argentina. Originally from Buenos Aires, Dolores speaks fluent Spanish, English, and French and lives in Dartmouth, MA with her husband and four children. Connect with Dolores Hirschmann: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  LinkedIn  Free gift: The TED Way to Raise Visibility & Get More Clients eBook https://www.we.mastersinclarity.com/standout-podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio: Mark your Calendars! You’re invited to the 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference. Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference!  Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Other Shows Mentioned:  #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   Fri, 09 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Dolores Hirschmann: Unlock Your Message, Unlock Your Business full 657 LuAnn Nigara Today with Dolores Hirschmann Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. When someone asks you what you do, how clear are you? Are you able to communicate what you do, the value you bring to the table, who you help, and what sets you apart? Or do you... Today with Dolores Hirschmann Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. When someone asks you what you do, how clear are you? Are you able to communicate what you do, the value you bring to the table, who you help, and what sets you apart? Or do you struggle to define what message you’re trying to put out with your business? The truth is that so many of us have trouble getting clear on our message, our differentiators, and our business. But until you gain that clarity, you’re going to hit roadblock after roadblock. Today, I chat with Dolores Hirschmann, a strategist and coach who helps her clients get that clarity in their message so they can start impacting the world. Pick it apart: [2:16] Dolores and LuAnn share why it’s so important to get clear about our message and how we communicate it.  [6:08] Dolores unpacks the way our belief systems impact our clarity. [22:28] Dolores breaks down her “9 Layers of Clarity” and how she uses the framework to help her clients. [41:28] LuAnn and Dolores dive into the process of tapping into your unique differentiator.   LuAnn and Dolores Hirschmann's Ah-Ha moments: “If people can’t ‘get’ what we do, if people cannot understand how we’re going to help them, it’s almost impossible for them to hire us.” -Dolores Hirschmann   “It is a rare time when you talk to someone and you say to them, ‘what do you do?’ and you get a straight-line answer. So often we talk in a circle.” -LuAnn Nigara   “What gets in the way of clarity is not more knowledge or sexy words—it’s our emotional state of being and our belief system.” -Dolores Hirschmann   “That’s the purpose of the proprietary system. Each of the designers listening to this podcast is unique in the way they approach the project. Each of them is unique in the way they interact with the client, in the way they go about the whole process. So there’s value in understanding your uniqueness because that’s your secret recipe.” -Dolores Hirschmann More About Dolores Hirschmann: Dolores is an internationally recognized STRATEGIST & COACH and has been a remote employee and virtual business owner for over 20 years. She helps clients clarify their “idea worth sharing”, design their communication strategies, and implement business growth systems. Her clients become speakers and authors and take their message to larger audiences like TEDx and beyond. She works through group coaching, workshops, one-on-one coaching, as well as public speaking. Dolores is a writer, TEDx Organizer, and CTI certified and ICF accredited coach with a business degree from the Universidad de San Andres, Argentina. Originally from Buenos Aires, Dolores speaks fluent Spanish, English, and French and lives in Dartmouth, MA with her husband and four children. Connect with Dolores Hirschmann: Website  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  LinkedIn  Free gift: The TED Way to Raise Visibility & Get More Clients eBook https://www.we.mastersinclarity.com/standout-podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio: Mark your Calendars! You’re invited to the 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference. Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference!  Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself! Other Shows Mentioned:  #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. When someone asks you what you do, how clear are you? Are you able to communicate what you do, the value you bring to the table, who you help, and what sets you apart? Or do you struggle to define what message you’re trying to put out with your business? The truth is that so many of us have trouble getting clear on our message, our differentiators, and our business. But until you gain that clarity, you’re going to hit roadblock after roadblock. Today, I chat with Dolores Hirschmann, a strategist and coach who helps her clients get that clarity in their message so they can start impacting the world.

Pick it apart:
  • [2:16] Dolores and LuAnn share why it’s so important to get clear about our message and how we communicate it. 
  • [6:08] Dolores unpacks the way our belief systems impact our clarity.
  • [22:28] Dolores breaks down her “9 Layers of Clarity” and how she uses the framework to help her clients.
  • [41:28] LuAnn and Dolores dive into the process of tapping into your unique differentiator.
  •  
LuAnn and Dolores Hirschmann's Ah-Ha moments:

“If people can’t ‘get’ what we do, if people cannot understand how we’re going to help them, it’s almost impossible for them to hire us.” -Dolores Hirschmann

 

“It is a rare time when you talk to someone and you say to them, ‘what do you do?’ and you get a straight-line answer. So often we talk in a circle.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“What gets in the way of clarity is not more knowledge or sexy words—it’s our emotional state of being and our belief system.” -Dolores Hirschmann

 

“That’s the purpose of the proprietary system. Each of the designers listening to this podcast is unique in the way they approach the project. Each of them is unique in the way they interact with the client, in the way they go about the whole process. So there’s value in understanding your uniqueness because that’s your secret recipe.” -Dolores Hirschmann

More About Dolores Hirschmann:

Dolores is an internationally recognized STRATEGIST & COACH and has been a remote employee and virtual business owner for over 20 years. She helps clients clarify their “idea worth sharing”, design their communication strategies, and implement business growth systems. Her clients become speakers and authors and take their message to larger audiences like TEDx and beyond. She works through group coaching, workshops, one-on-one coaching, as well as public speaking. Dolores is a writer, TEDx Organizer, and CTI certified and ICF accredited coach with a business degree from the Universidad de San Andres, Argentina. Originally from Buenos Aires, Dolores speaks fluent Spanish, English, and French and lives in Dartmouth, MA with her husband and four children.

Connect with Dolores Hirschmann:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Twitter 

LinkedIn 

Free gift: The TED Way to Raise Visibility & Get More Clients eBook https://www.we.mastersinclarity.com/standout-podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma Studio: Mark your Calendars! You’re invited to the 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference. Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference! 

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself!

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

#125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

 

]]> 4013 no 656: April Jensen: How to Establish Client Expectations for Successful Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/656-april-jensen-how-to-establish-client-expectations-for-successful-projects   Today with April Jensen Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. April Jensen of St. Louis-based ADJ Interiors was in business for 25 years before she created an onboarding doc for her high-end interior design business. April and LuAnn walk step-by-step through her onboarding doc as April lets us in on how it has helped her handle client expectations and sticky situations. Pick it apart: [16:13] April shares her response to a client who is unsure of their budget   [22:44] Why mutual respect with clients is necessary for a successful project    [27:40] April advises how to respond to a client who is worried about a single product   [36:33] April and LuAnn share their mutual frustration with clients who text   [42:55] LuAnn and April chat about how to handle clients who don’t pay LuAnn and April Jensen’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m a designer, and it’s okay to be a business person too.” - April Jensen   “You asked for a burger and a coke. If you want fries, it’s more money.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You have to put the whole picture together before you judge.” - April Jensen   More About April Jensen: Prior to founding ADJ Interiors in 1994, April Jensen worked for interior design firms in Chicago and St. Louis. She works equally as hard to create seamless and enjoyable design experiences for her clients as she does to foster a fun, collaborative, and creative work culture. April received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and a certificate of Art History from Michigan State University. She is a Professional Member of ASID and is NCIDQ Certified, having completed specialized courses, necessary experience, and a rigorous examination. Under April’s leadership, ADJ Interiors has been featured in several publications and has received a plethora of design awards. For more, please visit www.adjinteriors.com April Jensen of ADJ Interiors was originally scheduled for an interview on September 15th of last year but had to reschedule to the 24th of February due to Covid. Connect with April Jensen: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference! Tue, 06 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 April Jensen: How to Establish Client Expectations for Successful Projects full 656 LuAnn Nigara   Today with April Jensen Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. April Jensen of St. Louis-based ADJ Interiors was in business for 25 years before she created an onboarding doc for her high-end interior design business. April and LuAnn walk...   Today with April Jensen Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. April Jensen of St. Louis-based ADJ Interiors was in business for 25 years before she created an onboarding doc for her high-end interior design business. April and LuAnn walk step-by-step through her onboarding doc as April lets us in on how it has helped her handle client expectations and sticky situations. Pick it apart: [16:13] April shares her response to a client who is unsure of their budget   [22:44] Why mutual respect with clients is necessary for a successful project    [27:40] April advises how to respond to a client who is worried about a single product   [36:33] April and LuAnn share their mutual frustration with clients who text   [42:55] LuAnn and April chat about how to handle clients who don’t pay LuAnn and April Jensen’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m a designer, and it’s okay to be a business person too.” - April Jensen   “You asked for a burger and a coke. If you want fries, it’s more money.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You have to put the whole picture together before you judge.” - April Jensen   More About April Jensen: Prior to founding ADJ Interiors in 1994, April Jensen worked for interior design firms in Chicago and St. Louis. She works equally as hard to create seamless and enjoyable design experiences for her clients as she does to foster a fun, collaborative, and creative work culture. April received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and a certificate of Art History from Michigan State University. She is a Professional Member of ASID and is NCIDQ Certified, having completed specialized courses, necessary experience, and a rigorous examination. Under April’s leadership, ADJ Interiors has been featured in several publications and has received a plethora of design awards. For more, please visit www.adjinteriors.com April Jensen of ADJ Interiors was originally scheduled for an interview on September 15th of last year but had to reschedule to the 24th of February due to Covid. Connect with April Jensen: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. April Jensen of St. Louis-based ADJ Interiors was in business for 25 years before she created an onboarding doc for her high-end interior design business. April and LuAnn walk step-by-step through her onboarding doc as April lets us in on how it has helped her handle client expectations and sticky situations.

Pick it apart:

[16:13] April shares her response to a client who is unsure of their budget

 

[22:44] Why mutual respect with clients is necessary for a successful project 

 

[27:40] April advises how to respond to a client who is worried about a single product

 

[36:33] April and LuAnn share their mutual frustration with clients who text

 

[42:55] LuAnn and April chat about how to handle clients who don’t pay

LuAnn and April Jensen’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I’m a designer, and it’s okay to be a business person too.” - April Jensen

 

“You asked for a burger and a coke. If you want fries, it’s more money.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“You have to put the whole picture together before you judge.” - April Jensen

 

More About April Jensen:

Prior to founding ADJ Interiors in 1994, April Jensen worked for interior design firms in Chicago and St. Louis. She works equally as hard to create seamless and enjoyable design experiences for her clients as she does to foster a fun, collaborative, and creative work culture. April received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and a certificate of Art History from Michigan State University. She is a Professional Member of ASID and is NCIDQ Certified, having completed specialized courses, necessary experience, and a rigorous examination. Under April’s leadership, ADJ Interiors has been featured in several publications and has received a plethora of design awards. For more, please visit www.adjinteriors.com

April Jensen of ADJ Interiors was originally scheduled for an interview on September 15th of last year but had to reschedule to the 24th of February due to Covid.

Connect with April Jensen:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference!

]]> 3679 no 655: Power Talk Friday: Theresa Gresham: Asking for Help in Parenthood and Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/655-power-talk-friday-theresa-gresham-asking-for-help-in-parenthood-and-your-interior-design-business Today with Theresa Gresham Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Single mom to a toddler and suddenly laid off when Covid started, Theresa Gresham moved into a 200ft studio to save on rent. Theresa shares her journey of building a Virtual Design Assistant business from scratch and learning the importance of self-care and hiring help. Pick it apart: [14:30] Theresa shares her story about starting her business after getting laid off due to Covid. [19:32] Theresa tells LuAnn how a parenting coach helped her flip her mindset about self-care. [23:20] Theresa shares how things changed when she limited her office hours [27:41] Theresa shares about motherhood during Covid and the importance of asking for help [35:43] Theresa tells Luann about how she started her e-design business [41:30] Theresa gives an overview of the services she offers interior designers LuAnn and Theresa Gresham’s Ah-Ha moments:   “Everything wonderful in life is scary at first.” — Theresa Gresham   “You just keep going - and that little face smiling back at you is all the why you need.” — Theresa Gresham More About Theresa Gresham: Meet Theresa Gresham, a toddler mommy, a business owner, a virtual design assistant, and an educator, in that order. A truly well-rounded design professional, Theresa has worn many hats in the interior design industry. Her favorite aspect of the design world, however, is creating stunning presentation content, such as 3D renderings, and teaching her skills to other interior designers. Born and raised in sunny South Florida, her passion for interior design began at a young age when her mother gave her free rein to design her room. She loved using her creativity to up-cycle furniture and paint murals on her walls. Creativity runs deep through Theresa’s soul and she is living the dream by letting her creative juices flow in her career. Prior to opening her own virtual design business in 2020, Theresa attended California State University, Northridge, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design in 2009. She then went on to work for various firms that specialized in everything from luxury yachts and aircraft to high-end homes and restaurants. Theresa’s formal interior design training and varied experience in the field allows her to work seamlessly on a virtual level with interior designers across the country. Theresa’s passion is helping interior designers de-stress and enhance their business with stunning presentation content. She not only creates design visuals, such as CAD drawings, 3D renderings, and concept boards, for her interior design clients across the US, but she also offers 1:1 virtual training to interior designers who want to bring their own presentation skills to the next level. In Addition, Theresa teaches Digital Design to interior design students at Istituto Marangoni in the Miami Design District. When Theresa is not behind the computer immersed in a 3D rendering or in the classroom, you will likely find her dancing in the living room with her beautiful daughter, Leilani, or sipping on an iced latte while soaking up some warm South Florida sun. Connect with Theresa Gresham: Website  Instagram   Facebook  7 Perks of Hiring a VDA with Formal Interior Design Training: https://theresagdesign.com/gift/ Virtual Design Mentor: https://www.virtualdesignmentor.com/online-learning What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: IDS: The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021 and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference! Fri, 02 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Theresa Gresham: Asking for Help in Parenthood and Your Interior Design Business full 655 LuAnn Nigara Today with Theresa Gresham Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Single mom to a toddler and suddenly laid off when Covid started, Theresa Gresham moved into a 200ft studio to save on rent. Theresa shares her journey of building a Virtual Design... Today with Theresa Gresham Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Single mom to a toddler and suddenly laid off when Covid started, Theresa Gresham moved into a 200ft studio to save on rent. Theresa shares her journey of building a Virtual Design Assistant business from scratch and learning the importance of self-care and hiring help. Pick it apart: [14:30] Theresa shares her story about starting her business after getting laid off due to Covid. [19:32] Theresa tells LuAnn how a parenting coach helped her flip her mindset about self-care. [23:20] Theresa shares how things changed when she limited her office hours [27:41] Theresa shares about motherhood during Covid and the importance of asking for help [35:43] Theresa tells Luann about how she started her e-design business [41:30] Theresa gives an overview of the services she offers interior designers LuAnn and Theresa Gresham’s Ah-Ha moments:   “Everything wonderful in life is scary at first.” — Theresa Gresham   “You just keep going - and that little face smiling back at you is all the why you need.” — Theresa Gresham More About Theresa Gresham: Meet Theresa Gresham, a toddler mommy, a business owner, a virtual design assistant, and an educator, in that order. A truly well-rounded design professional, Theresa has worn many hats in the interior design industry. Her favorite aspect of the design world, however, is creating stunning presentation content, such as 3D renderings, and teaching her skills to other interior designers. Born and raised in sunny South Florida, her passion for interior design began at a young age when her mother gave her free rein to design her room. She loved using her creativity to up-cycle furniture and paint murals on her walls. Creativity runs deep through Theresa’s soul and she is living the dream by letting her creative juices flow in her career. Prior to opening her own virtual design business in 2020, Theresa attended California State University, Northridge, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design in 2009. She then went on to work for various firms that specialized in everything from luxury yachts and aircraft to high-end homes and restaurants. Theresa’s formal interior design training and varied experience in the field allows her to work seamlessly on a virtual level with interior designers across the country. Theresa’s passion is helping interior designers de-stress and enhance their business with stunning presentation content. She not only creates design visuals, such as CAD drawings, 3D renderings, and concept boards, for her interior design clients across the US, but she also offers 1:1 virtual training to interior designers who want to bring their own presentation skills to the next level. In Addition, Theresa teaches Digital Design to interior design students at Istituto Marangoni in the Miami Design District. When Theresa is not behind the computer immersed in a 3D rendering or in the classroom, you will likely find her dancing in the living room with her beautiful daughter, Leilani, or sipping on an iced latte while soaking up some warm South Florida sun. Connect with Theresa Gresham: Website  Instagram   Facebook  7 Perks of Hiring a VDA with Formal Interior Design Training: https://theresagdesign.com/gift/ Virtual Design Mentor: https://www.virtualdesignmentor.com/online-learning What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: IDS: The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021 and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Single mom to a toddler and suddenly laid off when Covid started, Theresa Gresham moved into a 200ft studio to save on rent. Theresa shares her journey of building a Virtual Design Assistant business from scratch and learning the importance of self-care and hiring help.

Pick it apart:

  • [14:30] Theresa shares her story about starting her business after getting laid off due to Covid.

  • [19:32] Theresa tells LuAnn how a parenting coach helped her flip her mindset about self-care.

  • [23:20] Theresa shares how things changed when she limited her office hours

  • [27:41] Theresa shares about motherhood during Covid and the importance of asking for help

  • [35:43] Theresa tells Luann about how she started her e-design business

  • [41:30] Theresa gives an overview of the services she offers interior designers

LuAnn and Theresa Gresham’s Ah-Ha moments:

 

“Everything wonderful in life is scary at first.” — Theresa Gresham

 

“You just keep going - and that little face smiling back at you is all the why you need.” — Theresa Gresham

More About Theresa Gresham:

Meet Theresa Gresham, a toddler mommy, a business owner, a virtual design assistant, and an educator, in that order. A truly well-rounded design professional, Theresa has worn many hats in the interior design industry. Her favorite aspect of the design world, however, is creating stunning presentation content, such as 3D renderings, and teaching her skills to other interior designers. Born and raised in sunny South Florida, her passion for interior design began at a young age when her mother gave her free rein to design her room. She loved using her creativity to up-cycle furniture and paint murals on her walls. Creativity runs deep through Theresa’s soul and she is living the dream by letting her creative juices flow in her career. Prior to opening her own virtual design business in 2020, Theresa attended California State University, Northridge, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design in 2009. She then went on to work for various firms that specialized in everything from luxury yachts and aircraft to high-end homes and restaurants. Theresa’s formal interior design training and varied experience in the field allows her to work seamlessly on a virtual level with interior designers across the country. Theresa’s passion is helping interior designers de-stress and enhance their business with stunning presentation content. She not only creates design visuals, such as CAD drawings, 3D renderings, and concept boards, for her interior design clients across the US, but she also offers 1:1 virtual training to interior designers who want to bring their own presentation skills to the next level. In Addition, Theresa teaches Digital Design to interior design students at Istituto Marangoni in the Miami Design District. When Theresa is not behind the computer immersed in a 3D rendering or in the classroom, you will likely find her dancing in the living room with her beautiful daughter, Leilani, or sipping on an iced latte while soaking up some warm South Florida sun.

Connect with Theresa Gresham:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

7 Perks of Hiring a VDA with Formal Interior Design Training: https://theresagdesign.com/gift/

Virtual Design Mentor: https://www.virtualdesignmentor.com/online-learning

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

IDS:

The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021 and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference

Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference!

]]> 3261 no 654: Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/654-jenny-madden-navigating-maternity-leave-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Jenny Madden Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. As business owners, we face many difficult situations, including how to balance personal life with business ownership. Maternity leave is one of those situations that can change the course of your business. But my guest today, Jenny Madden, has navigated the difficult territory of maternity leave five separate times, both in her own leave and in the leaves of her employees. She believes that planning can make the situation more smooth on all sides. Today, we’re discussing the tricky waters of maternity leave, and how you can make decisions now that will impact it in the future. Pick it apart: [1:40] Jenny and LuAnn discuss the emotional aspect of maternity leave from both an individual side and a business owner perspective. [10:26] Jenny shares insights into the financial implications of maternity leave and your responsibilities as a business owner. [22:57] LuAnn and Jenny talk about distributing the workload during maternity leave.  [34:41] Jenny discusses the differences in her two maternity leaves and how her business growth changed them. [42:24] Jenny and LuAnn talk about hiring freelancers during maternity leave. LuAnn and Jenny Madden’s Ah-Ha moments: “I like what you’re saying about thinking now about what you want to do. If you don’t have any employees now, or you don’t have any that are pregnant, think about how you want to handle it.” -LuAnn Nigara “As a business owner, I had no idea that offering an unpaid maternity leave meant I was still paying. I’m still paying a significant chunk of their healthcare and I’m still paying taxes on the checks they’re getting from the state. I’m happy to do it, but I do think it’s helpful to understand what you’re in for.” -Jenny Madden “If you want to try to maintain your same productivity at the firm through their leave, then obviously you have to hire someone.” -Jenny Madden “You have to put one foot in front of the other with the information you have at hand. You cannot predict everything...make a plan for yourself and your business and try not to get too worried about the ‘what-ifs.’” -Jenny Madden More About Jenny Madden: Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design. Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount. At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients. Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home. Connect with Stacy Garcia: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit www.kravet.com today to explore it for yourself.  Mydoma's 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference!   Other Shows Mentioned:  #332 Jenny Madden Design: Husband & Wife Series #346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee Tue, 30 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Jenny Madden: Navigating Maternity Leave in Your Interior Design Business full 654 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jenny Madden Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. As business owners, we face many difficult situations, including how to balance personal life with business ownership. Maternity leave is one of those situations that can change the course... Today with Jenny Madden Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. As business owners, we face many difficult situations, including how to balance personal life with business ownership. Maternity leave is one of those situations that can change the course of your business. But my guest today, Jenny Madden, has navigated the difficult territory of maternity leave five separate times, both in her own leave and in the leaves of her employees. She believes that planning can make the situation more smooth on all sides. Today, we’re discussing the tricky waters of maternity leave, and how you can make decisions now that will impact it in the future. Pick it apart: [1:40] Jenny and LuAnn discuss the emotional aspect of maternity leave from both an individual side and a business owner perspective. [10:26] Jenny shares insights into the financial implications of maternity leave and your responsibilities as a business owner. [22:57] LuAnn and Jenny talk about distributing the workload during maternity leave.  [34:41] Jenny discusses the differences in her two maternity leaves and how her business growth changed them. [42:24] Jenny and LuAnn talk about hiring freelancers during maternity leave. LuAnn and Jenny Madden’s Ah-Ha moments: “I like what you’re saying about thinking now about what you want to do. If you don’t have any employees now, or you don’t have any that are pregnant, think about how you want to handle it.” -LuAnn Nigara “As a business owner, I had no idea that offering an unpaid maternity leave meant I was still paying. I’m still paying a significant chunk of their healthcare and I’m still paying taxes on the checks they’re getting from the state. I’m happy to do it, but I do think it’s helpful to understand what you’re in for.” -Jenny Madden “If you want to try to maintain your same productivity at the firm through their leave, then obviously you have to hire someone.” -Jenny Madden “You have to put one foot in front of the other with the information you have at hand. You cannot predict everything...make a plan for yourself and your business and try not to get too worried about the ‘what-ifs.’” -Jenny Madden More About Jenny Madden: Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design. Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount. At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients. Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home. Connect with Stacy Garcia: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit www.kravet.com today to explore it for yourself.  Mydoma's 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19 Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event! RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference!   Other Shows Mentioned:  #332 Jenny Madden Design: Husband & Wife Series #346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. As business owners, we face many difficult situations, including how to balance personal life with business ownership. Maternity leave is one of those situations that can change the course of your business. But my guest today, Jenny Madden, has navigated the difficult territory of maternity leave five separate times, both in her own leave and in the leaves of her employees. She believes that planning can make the situation more smooth on all sides. Today, we’re discussing the tricky waters of maternity leave, and how you can make decisions now that will impact it in the future.

Pick it apart:
  • [1:40] Jenny and LuAnn discuss the emotional aspect of maternity leave from both an individual side and a business owner perspective.
  • [10:26] Jenny shares insights into the financial implications of maternity leave and your responsibilities as a business owner.
  • [22:57] LuAnn and Jenny talk about distributing the workload during maternity leave. 
  • [34:41] Jenny discusses the differences in her two maternity leaves and how her business growth changed them.
  • [42:24] Jenny and LuAnn talk about hiring freelancers during maternity leave.
LuAnn and Jenny Madden’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I like what you’re saying about thinking now about what you want to do. If you don’t have any employees now, or you don’t have any that are pregnant, think about how you want to handle it.” -LuAnn Nigara

“As a business owner, I had no idea that offering an unpaid maternity leave meant I was still paying. I’m still paying a significant chunk of their healthcare and I’m still paying taxes on the checks they’re getting from the state. I’m happy to do it, but I do think it’s helpful to understand what you’re in for.” -Jenny Madden

“If you want to try to maintain your same productivity at the firm through their leave, then obviously you have to hire someone.” -Jenny Madden

“You have to put one foot in front of the other with the information you have at hand. You cannot predict everything...make a plan for yourself and your business and try not to get too worried about the ‘what-ifs.’” -Jenny Madden

More About Jenny Madden:

Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design.

Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount.

At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients.

Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home.

Connect with Stacy Garcia:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit www.kravet.com today to explore it for yourself. 

Mydoma's 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference!

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#332 Jenny Madden Design: Husband & Wife Series

#346 Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron

#149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee

]]> 4049 no 653: Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/653-window-treatment-friday-rising-from-the-ashes     Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about rising from the ashes of the fire that destroyed her workroom. It's every business owners nightmare. Fortunately for Vita's diligent dedication to the processes and systems within her business, Vita was able to literally rise from the ashes over night, and continue to keep her business running.  More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   Fri, 26 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes full 653 LuAnn Nigara     Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about rising from the ashes of the fire that destroyed her workroom. It's every business owners...     Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about rising from the ashes of the fire that destroyed her workroom. It's every business owners nightmare. Fortunately for Vita's diligent dedication to the processes and systems within her business, Vita was able to literally rise from the ashes over night, and continue to keep her business running.  More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast    

  Today with Vita Vygovska

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about rising from the ashes of the fire that destroyed her workroom. It's every business owners nightmare. Fortunately for Vita's diligent dedication to the processes and systems within her business, Vita was able to literally rise from the ashes over night, and continue to keep her business running. 

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

]]> 5525 no 652: Stacy Garcia: Transitioning Your Interior Design Business When Times Get Tough http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/652-stacy-garcia-transitioning-your-interior-design-business-when-times-get-tough Today with Stacy Garcia Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. We spend a lot of time talking about starting your business, growing your business, and implementing the basics that lead you to success. Today, we’re talking about what happens when that success is threatened. Recessions, disasters, and unforeseeable circumstances can threaten your business. But the way you respond to those situations shows your grit, determination, and ultimately determines your success as a business owner.  That’s what Stacy Garcia is talking to us about today. When the pandemic hit, the hospitality industry was hit hard. But Stacy figured out how to pivot, make changes, and grow a new portion of her business to meet the people’s needs and keep her business strong. Pick it apart: [9:16] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the difference in starting your business and the challenges that come later on. [17:03] Stacy gives her insight into how the hospitality industry was impacted by COVID. [28:03] Stacy shares how she transitioned into the consumer side and grew a massive Facebook presence in just six months. [41:22] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the need for adjusting the way you operate your business during tough times.  [45:15] Stacy dives into the way that going back to the basics of networking and sales saved her business. LuAnn and Stacy Garcia’s Ah-Ha moments: “Being brutally aware of the reality of your situation is goal #1.” -Stacy   “When people are in pain, there’s not a better opportunity to solve people’s problems, and when you solve people’s problems, you bring value to the table, and when you bring value to the table, the money will follow.” -Stacy   “The reason that the first recession we went through at Window Works, back in 91-92, was so difficult was because we did not face it soon enough.” -LuAnn   “When you’re the owner, you have to take a long-term investor’s approach, and so there may be years where the business just doesn’t produce for you personally. But the goal becomes keep it alive, because that’s how you can grow it back when the economy turns around.” -Stacy More About Stacy Garcia: An established leader in the world of design, Stacy Garcia is a successful creative entrepreneur and founder of multiple business enterprises: LebaTex, Inc., a distinctive textile supplier and Stacy Garcia, Inc., a licensing firm and design house. With brands like Stacy Garcia Commercial, Stacy Garcia | New York, Stacy Garcia Home, and Stay by Stacy Garcia, this internationally renowned designer and forecasting expert has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts and homes all over the world. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, New York Spaces, LUXE, Rue Daily and Architectural Digest. Stacy has an established reputation as a preeminent forecaster of color and design trends, and is a Chairholder of Color Marketing Group, the premiere international color forecasting association. Stacy is also a dynamic public speaker with experience hosting panels, workshops and keynotes. Connect with Stacy Garcia: https://shopstacygarcia.com/ https://stacygarciainc.com/ https://shopstacygarcia.com/blogs/blog https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciainc/ https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciatrade/ https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciainc https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciatrade https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacygarcia/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/stacy-garcia-inc https://twitter.com/StacyGarciaInc https://www.pinterest.com/stacygarciainc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch: Kirsch is the solution for all your custom drapery hardware and window covering needs. Kirsch just unveiled their new Briza Motorization that allows your clients to control their drapery from anywhere. It’s easy to install, easy to integrate to existing smart home systems, and available on their most popular tracks. Visit www.kirsch.com today to learn more.    Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Their seamless workflow software organizes your design project from beginning to end, saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. You can get 20% off your first three months today by signing up at www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary Tue, 23 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Stacy Garcia: Transitioning Your Interior Design Business When Times Get Tough full 652 LuAnn Nigara Today with Stacy Garcia Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. We spend a lot of time talking about starting your business, growing your business, and implementing the basics that lead you to success. Today, we’re talking about what happens when... Today with Stacy Garcia Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. We spend a lot of time talking about starting your business, growing your business, and implementing the basics that lead you to success. Today, we’re talking about what happens when that success is threatened. Recessions, disasters, and unforeseeable circumstances can threaten your business. But the way you respond to those situations shows your grit, determination, and ultimately determines your success as a business owner.  That’s what Stacy Garcia is talking to us about today. When the pandemic hit, the hospitality industry was hit hard. But Stacy figured out how to pivot, make changes, and grow a new portion of her business to meet the people’s needs and keep her business strong. Pick it apart: [9:16] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the difference in starting your business and the challenges that come later on. [17:03] Stacy gives her insight into how the hospitality industry was impacted by COVID. [28:03] Stacy shares how she transitioned into the consumer side and grew a massive Facebook presence in just six months. [41:22] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the need for adjusting the way you operate your business during tough times.  [45:15] Stacy dives into the way that going back to the basics of networking and sales saved her business. LuAnn and Stacy Garcia’s Ah-Ha moments: “Being brutally aware of the reality of your situation is goal #1.” -Stacy   “When people are in pain, there’s not a better opportunity to solve people’s problems, and when you solve people’s problems, you bring value to the table, and when you bring value to the table, the money will follow.” -Stacy   “The reason that the first recession we went through at Window Works, back in 91-92, was so difficult was because we did not face it soon enough.” -LuAnn   “When you’re the owner, you have to take a long-term investor’s approach, and so there may be years where the business just doesn’t produce for you personally. But the goal becomes keep it alive, because that’s how you can grow it back when the economy turns around.” -Stacy More About Stacy Garcia: An established leader in the world of design, Stacy Garcia is a successful creative entrepreneur and founder of multiple business enterprises: LebaTex, Inc., a distinctive textile supplier and Stacy Garcia, Inc., a licensing firm and design house. With brands like Stacy Garcia Commercial, Stacy Garcia | New York, Stacy Garcia Home, and Stay by Stacy Garcia, this internationally renowned designer and forecasting expert has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts and homes all over the world. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, New York Spaces, LUXE, Rue Daily and Architectural Digest. Stacy has an established reputation as a preeminent forecaster of color and design trends, and is a Chairholder of Color Marketing Group, the premiere international color forecasting association. Stacy is also a dynamic public speaker with experience hosting panels, workshops and keynotes. Connect with Stacy Garcia: https://shopstacygarcia.com/ https://stacygarciainc.com/ https://shopstacygarcia.com/blogs/blog https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciainc/ https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciatrade/ https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciainc https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciatrade https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacygarcia/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/stacy-garcia-inc https://twitter.com/StacyGarciaInc https://www.pinterest.com/stacygarciainc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch: Kirsch is the solution for all your custom drapery hardware and window covering needs. Kirsch just unveiled their new Briza Motorization that allows your clients to control their drapery from anywhere. It’s easy to install, easy to integrate to existing smart home systems, and available on their most popular tracks. Visit www.kirsch.com today to learn more.    Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Their seamless workflow software organizes your design project from beginning to end, saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. You can get 20% off your first three months today by signing up at www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. We spend a lot of time talking about starting your business, growing your business, and implementing the basics that lead you to success. Today, we’re talking about what happens when that success is threatened. Recessions, disasters, and unforeseeable circumstances can threaten your business. But the way you respond to those situations shows your grit, determination, and ultimately determines your success as a business owner. 

That’s what Stacy Garcia is talking to us about today. When the pandemic hit, the hospitality industry was hit hard. But Stacy figured out how to pivot, make changes, and grow a new portion of her business to meet the people’s needs and keep her business strong.

Pick it apart:
  • [9:16] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the difference in starting your business and the challenges that come later on.
  • [17:03] Stacy gives her insight into how the hospitality industry was impacted by COVID.
  • [28:03] Stacy shares how she transitioned into the consumer side and grew a massive Facebook presence in just six months.
  • [41:22] Stacy and LuAnn discuss the need for adjusting the way you operate your business during tough times. 
  • [45:15] Stacy dives into the way that going back to the basics of networking and sales saved her business.

LuAnn and Stacy Garcia’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Being brutally aware of the reality of your situation is goal #1.” -Stacy

 

“When people are in pain, there’s not a better opportunity to solve people’s problems, and when you solve people’s problems, you bring value to the table, and when you bring value to the table, the money will follow.” -Stacy

 

“The reason that the first recession we went through at Window Works, back in 91-92, was so difficult was because we did not face it soon enough.” -LuAnn

 

“When you’re the owner, you have to take a long-term investor’s approach, and so there may be years where the business just doesn’t produce for you personally. But the goal becomes keep it alive, because that’s how you can grow it back when the economy turns around.” -Stacy

More About Stacy Garcia:

An established leader in the world of design, Stacy Garcia is a successful creative entrepreneur and founder of multiple business enterprises: LebaTex, Inc., a distinctive textile supplier and Stacy Garcia, Inc., a licensing firm and design house. With brands like Stacy Garcia Commercial, Stacy Garcia | New York, Stacy Garcia Home, and Stay by Stacy Garcia, this internationally renowned designer and forecasting expert has partnered with some of the world’s leading manufacturers to create products that span from floor to ceiling for resorts and homes all over the world. She was voted one of the 10 leading voices in the hospitality industry and honored by ASID for Design Excellence. Her work has been featured in Interior Design, Boutique Design, New York Spaces, LUXE, Rue Daily and Architectural Digest.

Stacy has an established reputation as a preeminent forecaster of color and design trends, and is a Chairholder of Color Marketing Group, the premiere international color forecasting association. Stacy is also a dynamic public speaker with experience hosting panels, workshops and keynotes.

Connect with Stacy Garcia:

https://shopstacygarcia.com/

https://stacygarciainc.com/

https://shopstacygarcia.com/blogs/blog

https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciainc/

https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciatrade/

https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciainc

https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciatrade

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacygarcia/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stacy-garcia-inc

https://twitter.com/StacyGarciaInc

https://www.pinterest.com/stacygarciainc

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch: Kirsch is the solution for all your custom drapery hardware and window covering needs. Kirsch just unveiled their new Briza Motorization that allows your clients to control their drapery from anywhere. It’s easy to install, easy to integrate to existing smart home systems, and available on their most popular tracks. Visit www.kirsch.com today to learn more. 

 

Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is the designer toolkit. Their seamless workflow software organizes your design project from beginning to end, saving you time, money, and keeping everything in one place. You can get 20% off your first three months today by signing up at www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#21 Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary

]]> 4226 no 651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/651-power-talk-friday-rachael-bozsik-gaining-credibility-in-interior-design Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Rachael is an international keynote speaker and thought leadership coach helping female entrepreneurs in the lifestyle space build personal brands. She joins LuAnn to share a practical plan for positioning your brand, honing your activities, and attracting your ideal client. Pick it apart: [17:05] Rachael tell about how she started her first business from her dorm room   [26:55] Rachael shares exactly how her client process works   [28:26] Rachael explains why press is so important to building trust   [37:42] LuAnn and Rachael chat about the strategy Rachael would use for a sample client   [50:48] Rachael shares about how she typically works with seasoned designers   [52:14] Rachael talks about what it takes for a client to execute her strategy   [55:47] Rachael shares how she stays connected and pitches herself LuAnn and Rachael Bozsik’s Ah-Ha moments: “To be paid for your work, you need to have the credibility.” - Rachael Bozsik   “If we can surround you with stamps of approval, it becomes easier for your ideal client to say yes.” - Rachael Bozsik   “If you want your ideal opportunities, you have to pitch yourself for them.” - Rachael Bozsik More About Rachael Bozsik: Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael's mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think - a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael's clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.   Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda's SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah's Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is one of those companies you just know you can trust. They built their business around making you look good to your client. From client and vendor communications to mood board and package creation to getting your invoices paid, Mydoma studio is the best place for you to easily manage your projects efficiently and professionally. Go to Mydoma studio.com/awelldesignedbusiness today. Sat, 20 Mar 2021 15:51:26 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design full 651 LuAnn Nigara Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Rachael is an international keynote speaker and thought leadership coach helping female entrepreneurs in the lifestyle space build personal brands. She joins LuAnn to share a practical... Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Rachael is an international keynote speaker and thought leadership coach helping female entrepreneurs in the lifestyle space build personal brands. She joins LuAnn to share a practical plan for positioning your brand, honing your activities, and attracting your ideal client. Pick it apart: [17:05] Rachael tell about how she started her first business from her dorm room   [26:55] Rachael shares exactly how her client process works   [28:26] Rachael explains why press is so important to building trust   [37:42] LuAnn and Rachael chat about the strategy Rachael would use for a sample client   [50:48] Rachael shares about how she typically works with seasoned designers   [52:14] Rachael talks about what it takes for a client to execute her strategy   [55:47] Rachael shares how she stays connected and pitches herself LuAnn and Rachael Bozsik’s Ah-Ha moments: “To be paid for your work, you need to have the credibility.” - Rachael Bozsik   “If we can surround you with stamps of approval, it becomes easier for your ideal client to say yes.” - Rachael Bozsik   “If you want your ideal opportunities, you have to pitch yourself for them.” - Rachael Bozsik More About Rachael Bozsik: Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael's mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think - a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael's clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.   Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda's SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah's Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik: Website  Instagram  LinkedIn   What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is one of those companies you just know you can trust. They built their business around making you look good to your client. From client and vendor communications to mood board and package creation to getting your invoices paid, Mydoma studio is the best place for you to easily manage your projects efficiently and professionally. Go to Mydoma studio.com/awelldesignedbusiness today. Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Rachael is an international keynote speaker and thought leadership coach helping female entrepreneurs in the lifestyle space build personal brands. She joins LuAnn to share a practical plan for positioning your brand, honing your activities, and attracting your ideal client.

Pick it apart:

[17:05] Rachael tell about how she started her first business from her dorm room

 

[26:55] Rachael shares exactly how her client process works

 

[28:26] Rachael explains why press is so important to building trust

 

[37:42] LuAnn and Rachael chat about the strategy Rachael would use for a sample client

 

[50:48] Rachael shares about how she typically works with seasoned designers

 

[52:14] Rachael talks about what it takes for a client to execute her strategy

 

[55:47] Rachael shares how she stays connected and pitches herself

LuAnn and Rachael Bozsik’s Ah-Ha moments:

“To be paid for your work, you need to have the credibility.” - Rachael Bozsik

 

“If we can surround you with stamps of approval, it becomes easier for your ideal client to say yes.” - Rachael Bozsik

 

“If you want your ideal opportunities, you have to pitch yourself for them.” - Rachael Bozsik

More About Rachael Bozsik:

Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field.

It is Rachael's mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think - a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael's clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.

 

Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda's SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah's Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc.

Connect with Rachael Bozsik:

Website 

Instagram 

LinkedIn

  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is one of those companies you just know you can trust. They built their business around making you look good to your client. From client and vendor communications to mood board and package creation to getting your invoices paid, Mydoma studio is the best place for you to easily manage your projects efficiently and professionally. Go to Mydoma studio.com/awelldesignedbusiness today.

]]> 3386 no 650: Sara Barney: The Power of SEO and Business Acumen in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/650-sara-barney-the-power-of-seo-and-business-acumen-in-interior-design Today with Sara Barney Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Design is a second career for Sara Malek Barney. Sara was an executive in the entertainment and sports industries before she became the Founder and Principal Designer of Bandd Interiors in Austin, Texas. With plenty of business savvy under her belt, when she launched her design firm, Sara knew to concentrate on two tactics to create and grow her digital footprint. She’s also sharing her advice on how to expand your own business knowledge and deal with those unhappy clients. Pick it apart: [12:05] Sara details how she got started with her SEO vendor [24:47] Sara provides commentary on what’s lacking in the coursework for interior design degree programs [31:33] Sara describes the scope of her design projects  [37:11] LuAnn and Sara discuss the nuance of saying yes to smaller projects [49:17] Sara explains why she isn’t big on detailed renderings [53:40] Sara reviews the makeup of her team [1:06:24] Sara give advice on reacting to unhappy clients LuAnn and Sara Barney’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m very big on hiring out. I’m not an expert in everything.” - Sara Malek Barney “We don’t just quit our job and hope it works. We have a plan.” - LuAnn Nigara “It’s never just black and white. There’s always a decision process through it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sara Barney: Sara is the mastermind behind the design. Prior to launching BANDD DESIGN, she spent the first phase of her professional career working in the fast-paced entertainment and sports industries, as an executive at companies such as SXSW, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her past experience helps her deliver timeless, unique designs for her clients. She believes the design process should be highly collaborative and feel authentic to each individual. An Austin-native (a rare breed!), Sara spent nearly a decade in sunny Los Angeles, California, where she met her writer husband, Dana, while they were both chasing the Hollywood dream. Now back on home turf, Sara and Dana enjoy endless amounts of breakfast tacos and college football (hook ’em!) with their two daughters. Sara, a University of Texas alum, has degrees in Corporate Communication and Interior Design. She was named one of Fortune Magazine‘s Most Powerful Women {Next Gen}, one of Austin Monthly‘s Women to Watch, and is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the Female Founder Collective. When not designing, you can find Sara wearing sequins, learning a hip hop dance routine, watching Seinfeld (yes, still), trying to be a cool mom, or daydreaming about Napa. Connect with Sara Barney: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That’s why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet’s new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today! Tue, 16 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000 Sara Barney: The Power of SEO and Business Acumen in Interior Design full 650 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sara Barney Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Design is a second career for Sara Malek Barney. Sara was an executive in the entertainment and sports industries before she became the Founder and Principal Designer of Bandd Interiors in... Today with Sara Barney Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Design is a second career for Sara Malek Barney. Sara was an executive in the entertainment and sports industries before she became the Founder and Principal Designer of Bandd Interiors in Austin, Texas. With plenty of business savvy under her belt, when she launched her design firm, Sara knew to concentrate on two tactics to create and grow her digital footprint. She’s also sharing her advice on how to expand your own business knowledge and deal with those unhappy clients. Pick it apart: [12:05] Sara details how she got started with her SEO vendor [24:47] Sara provides commentary on what’s lacking in the coursework for interior design degree programs [31:33] Sara describes the scope of her design projects  [37:11] LuAnn and Sara discuss the nuance of saying yes to smaller projects [49:17] Sara explains why she isn’t big on detailed renderings [53:40] Sara reviews the makeup of her team [1:06:24] Sara give advice on reacting to unhappy clients LuAnn and Sara Barney’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m very big on hiring out. I’m not an expert in everything.” - Sara Malek Barney “We don’t just quit our job and hope it works. We have a plan.” - LuAnn Nigara “It’s never just black and white. There’s always a decision process through it.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Sara Barney: Sara is the mastermind behind the design. Prior to launching BANDD DESIGN, she spent the first phase of her professional career working in the fast-paced entertainment and sports industries, as an executive at companies such as SXSW, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her past experience helps her deliver timeless, unique designs for her clients. She believes the design process should be highly collaborative and feel authentic to each individual. An Austin-native (a rare breed!), Sara spent nearly a decade in sunny Los Angeles, California, where she met her writer husband, Dana, while they were both chasing the Hollywood dream. Now back on home turf, Sara and Dana enjoy endless amounts of breakfast tacos and college football (hook ’em!) with their two daughters. Sara, a University of Texas alum, has degrees in Corporate Communication and Interior Design. She was named one of Fortune Magazine‘s Most Powerful Women {Next Gen}, one of Austin Monthly‘s Women to Watch, and is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the Female Founder Collective. When not designing, you can find Sara wearing sequins, learning a hip hop dance routine, watching Seinfeld (yes, still), trying to be a cool mom, or daydreaming about Napa. Connect with Sara Barney: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That’s why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet’s new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today! Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Design is a second career for Sara Malek Barney. Sara was an executive in the entertainment and sports industries before she became the Founder and Principal Designer of Bandd Interiors in Austin, Texas. With plenty of business savvy under her belt, when she launched her design firm, Sara knew to concentrate on two tactics to create and grow her digital footprint. She’s also sharing her advice on how to expand your own business knowledge and deal with those unhappy clients.

Pick it apart:

[12:05] Sara details how she got started with her SEO vendor

[24:47] Sara provides commentary on what’s lacking in the coursework for interior design degree programs

[31:33] Sara describes the scope of her design projects 

[37:11] LuAnn and Sara discuss the nuance of saying yes to smaller projects

[49:17] Sara explains why she isn’t big on detailed renderings

[53:40] Sara reviews the makeup of her team

[1:06:24] Sara give advice on reacting to unhappy clients

LuAnn and Sara Barney’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I’m very big on hiring out. I’m not an expert in everything.” - Sara Malek Barney

“We don’t just quit our job and hope it works. We have a plan.” - LuAnn Nigara

“It’s never just black and white. There’s always a decision process through it.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Sara Barney:

Sara is the mastermind behind the design. Prior to launching BANDD DESIGN, she spent the first phase of her professional career working in the fast-paced entertainment and sports industries, as an executive at companies such as SXSW, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her past experience helps her deliver timeless, unique designs for her clients. She believes the design process should be highly collaborative and feel authentic to each individual.

An Austin-native (a rare breed!), Sara spent nearly a decade in sunny Los Angeles, California, where she met her writer husband, Dana, while they were both chasing the Hollywood dream. Now back on home turf, Sara and Dana enjoy endless amounts of breakfast tacos and college football (hook ’em!) with their two daughters.

Sara, a University of Texas alum, has degrees in Corporate Communication and Interior Design. She was named one of Fortune Magazine‘s Most Powerful Women {Next Gen}, one of Austin Monthly‘s Women to Watch, and is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the Female Founder Collective.

When not designing, you can find Sara wearing sequins, learning a hip hop dance routine, watching Seinfeld (yes, still), trying to be a cool mom, or daydreaming about Napa.

Connect with Sara Barney:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook  

Pinterest 

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That’s why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet’s new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today!

]]> 4751 no 649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder's Perspective http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/649-power-talk-friday-brad-leavitt-understanding-design-build-from-the-builders-perspective Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome Brad Leavitt back for his fifth time on the show! Brad is here once again to share share his expert insight to help you better understand and navigate the design-build process. In today’s show Brad tells us what the process is like through the eyes of the builder. When you understand the builder's perspective, you will see how important it is for you as the designer to bring you’re A Game. So, let’s see what this looks like from the builder side, shall we? More About Brad Leavitt: Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Connect with Brad Leavitt: Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast"  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #615 #580 #560 #542 Fri, 12 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder's Perspective full 649 LuAnn Nigara Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome Brad Leavitt back for his fifth time on the show! Brad is here once again to share share his expert insight to help you better understand and navigate the design-build... Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome Brad Leavitt back for his fifth time on the show! Brad is here once again to share share his expert insight to help you better understand and navigate the design-build process. In today’s show Brad tells us what the process is like through the eyes of the builder. When you understand the builder's perspective, you will see how important it is for you as the designer to bring you’re A Game. So, let’s see what this looks like from the builder side, shall we? More About Brad Leavitt: Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Connect with Brad Leavitt: Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast"  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #615 #580 #560 #542 Today with Brad Leavitt:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome Brad Leavitt back for his fifth time on the show! Brad is here once again to share share his expert insight to help you better understand and navigate the design-build process. In today’s show Brad tells us what the process is like through the eyes of the builder. When you understand the builder's perspective, you will see how important it is for you as the designer to bring you’re A Game. So, let’s see what this looks like from the builder side, shall we?

More About Brad Leavitt:

Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker.

Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.  

Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area.

In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality.

Connect with Brad Leavitt:

Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast" 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#615

#580

#560

#542

]]> 3629 no 648: Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/648-marie-flanigan-leveraging-relationships-and-making-decisions-in-interior-design Today with Marie Flanigan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more! Pick it apart: [2:25] Marie talks about how to leverage relationships and grow to the point of attracting the clients you really want. [11:10] Marie shares the data you need to be collecting that will help you fill your roster with dream clients. [19:07] LuAnn and Marie discuss the importance of making decisions based on your mission and vision for the business. [31:53] Marie dives into the touchpoints she uses to ensure an excellent client experience.  [45:45] Marie and LuAnn talk about making decisions with clients’ money and how communication is key. [1:10:30] Marie shares her thoughts on diversity in the industry. LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments:  “I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan “You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan “Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan “It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Marie Flanigan: Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service. Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother. In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase. Connect with Marie Flanigan: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today!  Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more! Other Shows Mentioned: #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm   #50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook   #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Tue, 09 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Marie Flanigan: Leveraging Relationships and Making Decisions in Interior Design full 648 LuAnn Nigara Today with Marie Flanigan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In... Today with Marie Flanigan: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more! Pick it apart: [2:25] Marie talks about how to leverage relationships and grow to the point of attracting the clients you really want. [11:10] Marie shares the data you need to be collecting that will help you fill your roster with dream clients. [19:07] LuAnn and Marie discuss the importance of making decisions based on your mission and vision for the business. [31:53] Marie dives into the touchpoints she uses to ensure an excellent client experience.  [45:45] Marie and LuAnn talk about making decisions with clients’ money and how communication is key. [1:10:30] Marie shares her thoughts on diversity in the industry. LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments:  “I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan “You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan “Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan “It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Marie Flanigan: Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service. Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother. In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase. Connect with Marie Flanigan: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter What’s new with LuAnn Nigara: luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today!  Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more! Other Shows Mentioned: #89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm   #50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook   #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more!

Pick it apart:
  • [2:25] Marie talks about how to leverage relationships and grow to the point of attracting the clients you really want.
  • [11:10] Marie shares the data you need to be collecting that will help you fill your roster with dream clients.
  • [19:07] LuAnn and Marie discuss the importance of making decisions based on your mission and vision for the business.
  • [31:53] Marie dives into the touchpoints she uses to ensure an excellent client experience. 
  • [45:45] Marie and LuAnn talk about making decisions with clients’ money and how communication is key.
  • [1:10:30] Marie shares her thoughts on diversity in the industry.
LuAnn and Marie Flanigan’s Ah-Ha moments:

 “I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan

“You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.” -Marie Flanigan

“Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.” -Marie Flanigan

“It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Marie Flanigan:

Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service.

Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother.

In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase.

Connect with Marie Flanigan:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook  

Pinterest 

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today! 

Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm

 

#50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook

 

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

]]> 4905 no 647: Power Talk Friday: Giving Yourself Grace in Life and Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/647-power-talk-friday-giving-yourself-grace-in-life-and-business   Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today's show is a different kind of episode. This week, I had several meaningful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, that made me take a few steps back, put the regularly scheduled programming on hold, and have a good old fashion sit down.    In life, and business, it is important to utilize our strengths and identify our weaknesses. Everyone has their unique superpower. It is what makes us the powerhouses that we are in our particular area of expertise. But we cannot be experts in everything. We cannot be all things to all people. Today, I am here to remind you how you can take those feelings of overwhelm, and turn them into an action plan. Give yourself some grace on this journey. One step at a time, one goal at a time, keep showing up for yourself. That is how we decide to be excellent! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Fri, 05 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Giving Yourself Grace in Life and Business full 647 LuAnn Nigara   Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today's show is a different kind of episode. This week, I had several meaningful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, that made me take a few steps back, put the regularly scheduled programming...   Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today's show is a different kind of episode. This week, I had several meaningful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, that made me take a few steps back, put the regularly scheduled programming on hold, and have a good old fashion sit down.    In life, and business, it is important to utilize our strengths and identify our weaknesses. Everyone has their unique superpower. It is what makes us the powerhouses that we are in our particular area of expertise. But we cannot be experts in everything. We cannot be all things to all people. Today, I am here to remind you how you can take those feelings of overwhelm, and turn them into an action plan. Give yourself some grace on this journey. One step at a time, one goal at a time, keep showing up for yourself. That is how we decide to be excellent! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today's show is a different kind of episode. This week, I had several meaningful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, that made me take a few steps back, put the regularly scheduled programming on hold, and have a good old fashion sit down.   

In life, and business, it is important to utilize our strengths and identify our weaknesses. Everyone has their unique superpower. It is what makes us the powerhouses that we are in our particular area of expertise. But we cannot be experts in everything. We cannot be all things to all people.

Today, I am here to remind you how you can take those feelings of overwhelm, and turn them into an action plan. Give yourself some grace on this journey. One step at a time, one goal at a time, keep showing up for yourself. That is how we decide to be excellent!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 2053 no 646: Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/646-aymee-kuhlman-and-molly-kidd-building-a-friendship-and-an-interior-design-partnership   Today with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Aymee and Molly of Light and Dwell, an Oregon based full service and virtual design firm were friends before they were business partners. They’re sharing what they’ve learned about themselves, about each other, and about how to mesh opposites together to grow a business from nothing to something amazing in just five short years. Pick it apart: [24:55] LuAnn recaps the tactics Aymee and Molly used to get their first clients [30:09] Aymee and Molly share how they figured out how to work together when each have very different personalities [37:17] LuAnn recaps business partnership tips and explains how the Window Works partnership works [41:55] Aymee describes how they worked through her maternity leave [49:19] LuAnn goes deep into how partnerships can work when there’s a disagreement LuAnn, Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd's Ah-Ha moments: “She’s good at anything you can see.” - Aymee about Molly   “Whoever’s area of strength it is has the final say.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You both bring to the table what the other person needs.” LuAnn Nigara More About Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Molly is married to Brad, and together they are raising three children [Karis, Krew + Karoline]. She enjoys being outdoors, drinking coffee, gluten-free cooking, and all sorts of design. She loves being creative and always has her hands in someone's flower arrangements, home decor or closet. Molly started Light and Dwell with Aymee 5 years ago, and now leads all the creative content and design for the business.   Molly Kidd  • molly@lightanddwell.com   Aymee and her husband Jim have three young adult children. She has a passion for hospitality and creating a welcoming space for others. She enjoys a good cup of black coffee, baking, and traveling with her family.  She runs the behind the scenes operations of Light and Dwell and loves anything under the subject area of systems and people!   Aymee Kuhlman  •  aymee.lightanddwell@gmail.com    Connect with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd Website  Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Are you having trouble with keeping track of your orders, your project management, your books, your proposals - all those backend things we love to hate? I want you to do some research and see if Mydoma would help you. It’s workflow software that manages your projects from beginning to end. As a listener, you can try it for 20% off for three months. To see if Mydoma is right for you, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Tue, 02 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership full 646 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Aymee and Molly of Light and Dwell, an Oregon based full service and virtual design firm were friends before they were business partners. They’re sharing what...   Today with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Aymee and Molly of Light and Dwell, an Oregon based full service and virtual design firm were friends before they were business partners. They’re sharing what they’ve learned about themselves, about each other, and about how to mesh opposites together to grow a business from nothing to something amazing in just five short years. Pick it apart: [24:55] LuAnn recaps the tactics Aymee and Molly used to get their first clients [30:09] Aymee and Molly share how they figured out how to work together when each have very different personalities [37:17] LuAnn recaps business partnership tips and explains how the Window Works partnership works [41:55] Aymee describes how they worked through her maternity leave [49:19] LuAnn goes deep into how partnerships can work when there’s a disagreement LuAnn, Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd's Ah-Ha moments: “She’s good at anything you can see.” - Aymee about Molly   “Whoever’s area of strength it is has the final say.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You both bring to the table what the other person needs.” LuAnn Nigara More About Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Molly is married to Brad, and together they are raising three children [Karis, Krew + Karoline]. She enjoys being outdoors, drinking coffee, gluten-free cooking, and all sorts of design. She loves being creative and always has her hands in someone's flower arrangements, home decor or closet. Molly started Light and Dwell with Aymee 5 years ago, and now leads all the creative content and design for the business.   Molly Kidd  • molly@lightanddwell.com   Aymee and her husband Jim have three young adult children. She has a passion for hospitality and creating a welcoming space for others. She enjoys a good cup of black coffee, baking, and traveling with her family.  She runs the behind the scenes operations of Light and Dwell and loves anything under the subject area of systems and people!   Aymee Kuhlman  •  aymee.lightanddwell@gmail.com    Connect with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd Website  Instagram  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Are you having trouble with keeping track of your orders, your project management, your books, your proposals - all those backend things we love to hate? I want you to do some research and see if Mydoma would help you. It’s workflow software that manages your projects from beginning to end. As a listener, you can try it for 20% off for three months. To see if Mydoma is right for you, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Aymee and Molly of Light and Dwell, an Oregon based full service and virtual design firm were friends before they were business partners. They’re sharing what they’ve learned about themselves, about each other, and about how to mesh opposites together to grow a business from nothing to something amazing in just five short years.

Pick it apart:

[24:55] LuAnn recaps the tactics Aymee and Molly used to get their first clients

[30:09] Aymee and Molly share how they figured out how to work together when each have very different personalities

[37:17] LuAnn recaps business partnership tips and explains how the Window Works partnership works

[41:55] Aymee describes how they worked through her maternity leave

[49:19] LuAnn goes deep into how partnerships can work when there’s a disagreement

LuAnn, Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd's Ah-Ha moments:

“She’s good at anything you can see.” - Aymee about Molly

 

“Whoever’s area of strength it is has the final say.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“You both bring to the table what the other person needs.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd:

Molly is married to Brad, and together they are raising three children [Karis, Krew + Karoline]. She enjoys being outdoors, drinking coffee, gluten-free cooking, and all sorts of design. She loves being creative and always has her hands in someone's flower arrangements, home decor or closet. Molly started Light and Dwell with Aymee 5 years ago, and now leads all the creative content and design for the business.

 

Molly Kidd  • molly@lightanddwell.com

 

Aymee and her husband Jim have three young adult children. She has a passion for hospitality and creating a welcoming space for others. She enjoys a good cup of black coffee, baking, and traveling with her family.  She runs the behind the scenes operations of Light and Dwell and loves anything under the subject area of systems and people!

 

Aymee Kuhlman  •  aymee.lightanddwell@gmail.com 

  Connect with Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd

Website 

Instagram 

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio:

Are you having trouble with keeping track of your orders, your project management, your books, your proposals - all those backend things we love to hate? I want you to do some research and see if Mydoma would help you. It’s workflow software that manages your projects from beginning to end. As a listener, you can try it for 20% off for three months. To see if Mydoma is right for you, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

]]> 3953 no 645: Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/645-window-treatment-friday-scaling-to-your-first-million-dollar-year   Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about scaling to your first million-dollar year. As most of you probably know, scaling is not an easy task. It takes hard work and lots of blood, sweat, and tears. But when you can learn from someone who has already done it, it cuts the time and effort down and makes scaling attainable far before you thought it was possible. Today, Vita shares with us her five core pillars for scaling your business and how her course in LuAnn University, Scale Your Window Treatment Business to Your 1st Million Dollar Year, can help you get there faster. Pick It Apart [14:25] Vita gives us a rundown on the 4 levels of businesses, and who her course is right for. [27:20] LuAnn and Vita discuss the importance of streamlined systems and processes. [38:05] Vita shares technology’s role in scaling your business. [42:37] LuAnn and Vita talk about why hiring the right people is crucial to scale. [48:10] Vita discusses how finances and mindset can either hold you back or let you soar. LuAnn and Vita’s Aha-Moments  “Hiring people carries with it so much responsibility and that responsibility carries with it a great deal of fear.” -Vita Vygovska   “There is no better foundation for anything in your business than an actual written out system and process.” -Vita Vygovska   “That’s what I know to be true of you—not only do you have the experience, but I know that you documented it. That’s what enables the teaching to be significant and of value.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Kravet: Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com   Other Shows Mentioned: #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire   #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara   #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments   #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1   #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2   #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments   #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success   #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware   #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional   #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely   #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream   #586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments   #610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions Fri, 26 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year full 645 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about scaling to your first million-dollar year. As most of you probably know, scaling is not an easy task. It...   Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about scaling to your first million-dollar year. As most of you probably know, scaling is not an easy task. It takes hard work and lots of blood, sweat, and tears. But when you can learn from someone who has already done it, it cuts the time and effort down and makes scaling attainable far before you thought it was possible. Today, Vita shares with us her five core pillars for scaling your business and how her course in LuAnn University, Scale Your Window Treatment Business to Your 1st Million Dollar Year, can help you get there faster. Pick It Apart [14:25] Vita gives us a rundown on the 4 levels of businesses, and who her course is right for. [27:20] LuAnn and Vita discuss the importance of streamlined systems and processes. [38:05] Vita shares technology’s role in scaling your business. [42:37] LuAnn and Vita talk about why hiring the right people is crucial to scale. [48:10] Vita discusses how finances and mindset can either hold you back or let you soar. LuAnn and Vita’s Aha-Moments  “Hiring people carries with it so much responsibility and that responsibility carries with it a great deal of fear.” -Vita Vygovska   “There is no better foundation for anything in your business than an actual written out system and process.” -Vita Vygovska   “That’s what I know to be true of you—not only do you have the experience, but I know that you documented it. That’s what enables the teaching to be significant and of value.” -LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Kravet: Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com   Other Shows Mentioned: #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire   #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara   #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments   #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1   #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2   #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments   #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success   #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware   #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional   #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely   #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream   #586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments   #610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about scaling to your first million-dollar year. As most of you probably know, scaling is not an easy task. It takes hard work and lots of blood, sweat, and tears. But when you can learn from someone who has already done it, it cuts the time and effort down and makes scaling attainable far before you thought it was possible. Today, Vita shares with us her five core pillars for scaling your business and how her course in LuAnn University, Scale Your Window Treatment Business to Your 1st Million Dollar Year, can help you get there faster.

Pick It Apart
  • [14:25] Vita gives us a rundown on the 4 levels of businesses, and who her course is right for.
  • [27:20] LuAnn and Vita discuss the importance of streamlined systems and processes.
  • [38:05] Vita shares technology’s role in scaling your business.
  • [42:37] LuAnn and Vita talk about why hiring the right people is crucial to scale.
  • [48:10] Vita discusses how finances and mindset can either hold you back or let you soar.
LuAnn and Vita’s Aha-Moments

 “Hiring people carries with it so much responsibility and that responsibility carries with it a great deal of fear.” -Vita Vygovska

 

“There is no better foundation for anything in your business than an actual written out system and process.” -Vita Vygovska

 

“That’s what I know to be true of you—not only do you have the experience, but I know that you documented it. That’s what enables the teaching to be significant and of value.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor

Kravet: Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

 

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

 

#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire

 

#448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara

 

#456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments

 

#462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1

 

#471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2

 

#481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments

 

#493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success

 

#512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware

 

#518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional

 

#539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely

 

#551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream

 

#586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments

 

#610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions

]]> 4541 no 644: Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/644-kat-anderson-design-build-and-bookkeeping-classes-for-interior-designers Today with Kathleen Anderson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Kat Anderson of Material Design, an interior design business specializing in design-build projects, shares her experience as a recently-graduated interior design student struggling to find her way in the design world. You’ll hear Kat tell how she succeeded by growing her skillset in more than just design. Kat also walks through the classes she teaches at LuAnn University. Pick it apart: [12:45] Kat shares why having a good understanding of your bookkeeping also helps with job costing [17:40] Kat explains why her class benefits both beginner and mature business owners [31:43] LuAnn explains the difference between the LuAnn University class Design Build 101 and 201 [35:08] Kat shares how she developed the curriculum for Design Build 201 [45:30] Kat shares about how awful her two years in business were [50:05] LuAnn shares about how she coached Sara Lynn Brennan to develop processes [53:26] Kat speaks to the designer who wants to establish a process, but has a variety of different projects LuAnn and Kathleen Anderson’s Ah-Ha moments: “Your finances are the heartbeat of your business.” - Kathleen Anderson “It’s the difference between having a life that you love and feeling like when is Starbucks hiring.” - Kathleen Anderson “An expert in their field is the one who’s made all the mistakes.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kathleen Anderson Kathleen Anderson is a designer and entrepreneur delivering full-service interiors, design-build projects, window treatments, and more. With a BA in Interior Design and a Masters Degree in Architecture, she knows first-hand that business knowledge is what completes the trifecta needed to build and run a successful design firm. Connect with Kathleen Anderson Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: This is one of those vendors you’ll be so happy you took the time to set up an account with. They understand interior designers which makes it so refreshing to work with them to spec amazing wood flooring for your projects. They have a huge selection and are dedicated to helping you become an expert on wood floors. Go to revelwoods.com to learn more about how you can partner with Revel Woods to give your clients beautiful flooring and add profit to your projects.   Tue, 23 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Kat Anderson: Design Build and Bookkeeping Classes for Interior Designers full 644 LuAnn Nigara Today with Kathleen Anderson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Kat Anderson of Material Design, an interior design business specializing in design-build projects, shares her experience as a recently-graduated interior design student struggling... Today with Kathleen Anderson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Kat Anderson of Material Design, an interior design business specializing in design-build projects, shares her experience as a recently-graduated interior design student struggling to find her way in the design world. You’ll hear Kat tell how she succeeded by growing her skillset in more than just design. Kat also walks through the classes she teaches at LuAnn University. Pick it apart: [12:45] Kat shares why having a good understanding of your bookkeeping also helps with job costing [17:40] Kat explains why her class benefits both beginner and mature business owners [31:43] LuAnn explains the difference between the LuAnn University class Design Build 101 and 201 [35:08] Kat shares how she developed the curriculum for Design Build 201 [45:30] Kat shares about how awful her two years in business were [50:05] LuAnn shares about how she coached Sara Lynn Brennan to develop processes [53:26] Kat speaks to the designer who wants to establish a process, but has a variety of different projects LuAnn and Kathleen Anderson’s Ah-Ha moments: “Your finances are the heartbeat of your business.” - Kathleen Anderson “It’s the difference between having a life that you love and feeling like when is Starbucks hiring.” - Kathleen Anderson “An expert in their field is the one who’s made all the mistakes.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kathleen Anderson Kathleen Anderson is a designer and entrepreneur delivering full-service interiors, design-build projects, window treatments, and more. With a BA in Interior Design and a Masters Degree in Architecture, she knows first-hand that business knowledge is what completes the trifecta needed to build and run a successful design firm. Connect with Kathleen Anderson Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: This is one of those vendors you’ll be so happy you took the time to set up an account with. They understand interior designers which makes it so refreshing to work with them to spec amazing wood flooring for your projects. They have a huge selection and are dedicated to helping you become an expert on wood floors. Go to revelwoods.com to learn more about how you can partner with Revel Woods to give your clients beautiful flooring and add profit to your projects.   Today with Kathleen Anderson:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Kat Anderson of Material Design, an interior design business specializing in design-build projects, shares her experience as a recently-graduated interior design student struggling to find her way in the design world. You’ll hear Kat tell how she succeeded by growing her skillset in more than just design. Kat also walks through the classes she teaches at LuAnn University.

Pick it apart:

[12:45] Kat shares why having a good understanding of your bookkeeping also helps with job costing

[17:40] Kat explains why her class benefits both beginner and mature business owners

[31:43] LuAnn explains the difference between the LuAnn University class Design Build 101 and 201

[35:08] Kat shares how she developed the curriculum for Design Build 201

[45:30] Kat shares about how awful her two years in business were

[50:05] LuAnn shares about how she coached Sara Lynn Brennan to develop processes

[53:26] Kat speaks to the designer who wants to establish a process, but has a variety of different projects

LuAnn and Kathleen Anderson’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Your finances are the heartbeat of your business.” - Kathleen Anderson

“It’s the difference between having a life that you love and feeling like when is Starbucks hiring.” - Kathleen Anderson

“An expert in their field is the one who’s made all the mistakes.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Kathleen Anderson

Kathleen Anderson is a designer and entrepreneur delivering full-service interiors, design-build projects, window treatments, and more. With a BA in Interior Design and a Masters Degree in Architecture, she knows first-hand that business knowledge is what completes the trifecta needed to build and run a successful design firm.

Connect with Kathleen Anderson

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: This is one of those vendors you’ll be so happy you took the time to set up an account with. They understand interior designers which makes it so refreshing to work with them to spec amazing wood flooring for your projects. They have a huge selection and are dedicated to helping you become an expert on wood floors. Go to revelwoods.com to learn more about how you can partner with Revel Woods to give your clients beautiful flooring and add profit to your projects.

 

]]> 4300 no 643: Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge: Design More, Manage Less: Agency Representation for Your Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/643-nathan-brookshire-and-paul-davidge-design-more-manage-less-agency-representation-for-your-design-firm   Today with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge of Design: Agency & Management share how they help creatives develop a financially sound path to achieve their goals and run their business in such a way that they have the freedom to focus on their zone of genius. Pick it apart: [12:51] LuAnn and guests discuss the criteria to work with Design: Agency and Management [32:45] Nathan reveals the challenge all his design clients share [37:27] Nathan shares how he helped a designer negotiate their fee with her client [39:51] LuAnn recaps DAM’s monthly management/representation service  [44:15] Nathan shares how a designer would introduce DAM and explain their role to their client LuAnn, Nathan and Paul's Ah-Ha moments: “The design industry has not been as successful as some other industries in articulating their value to their client.” - Paul Davidge   “You really need to hone your negotiation skills.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You’ve got to be able to stand up and play the chess game with them.” - LuAnn Nigara   More About Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge Nathan Brookshire began his career in the finance industry, working as a financier to the Arts & Entertainment industries in Los Angeles upon graduation from Stanford University. As a banker, Nathan structured financing solutions for complex transactions, including fine art acquisitions, TV and film production, and real estate development projects. His banking experience led Nathan’s introduction to the art and design community in Los Angeles, and gave him a strong foundation in understanding the unique business, operating, and financial capital needs of creative companies. Nathan continued to sharpen his business acumen at such blue chip companies as Barclays Capital, Warner Bros., and Netflix, working in mergers and acquisitions and leading corporate strategic decisions. Having forged deep connections within the art and design space, Nathan left the corporate world to bring institutional-grade financial and strategic advisory services to smaller, creative companies in need of analytical rigor and general business management. In 2018 Nathan co-founded D:AM to formally represent and manage design talent. Nathan holds a BA from Stanford University and a MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Paul Davidge is the co-founder of D:AM as well as the owner of Not So General, a gallery for contemporary design in Los Angeles. Paul has an extensive business and operational background, first having worked as a finance attorney for Sidley Austin law firm working on $1bn+ transactions and then as a business development and strategy executive in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Whilst in entertainment, Paul helped Relativity Media grow in size from less than 15 employees to over 300 in under 5 years. He also worked as Chief Operating Officer for Exclusive Media responsible for the international division of the company. Paul has also advised other production companies as well as high net worth individuals on business development, strategy and growth. In an environment when creatives are taking responsibility for the own destinies, Paul co-founded D:AM in order to apply his experience to help them manage and grow their own companies and enable them to focus on doing what they love most - creating. Connect with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Have you signed up for your trade account with Kravet yet? No minimums on anything. One sofa, one rug, 1 yard of fabric, whatever you need, when you need it. Go to kravet.com and get started. Don't forget to use your one time code at checkout for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. AWDB10 at checkout  Fri, 19 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge: Design More, Manage Less: Agency Representation for Your Design Firm full 643 LuAnn Nigara   Today with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge of Design: Agency & Management share how they help creatives develop a financially sound path to achieve their goals...   Today with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge of Design: Agency & Management share how they help creatives develop a financially sound path to achieve their goals and run their business in such a way that they have the freedom to focus on their zone of genius. Pick it apart: [12:51] LuAnn and guests discuss the criteria to work with Design: Agency and Management [32:45] Nathan reveals the challenge all his design clients share [37:27] Nathan shares how he helped a designer negotiate their fee with her client [39:51] LuAnn recaps DAM’s monthly management/representation service  [44:15] Nathan shares how a designer would introduce DAM and explain their role to their client LuAnn, Nathan and Paul's Ah-Ha moments: “The design industry has not been as successful as some other industries in articulating their value to their client.” - Paul Davidge   “You really need to hone your negotiation skills.” - LuAnn Nigara   “You’ve got to be able to stand up and play the chess game with them.” - LuAnn Nigara   More About Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge Nathan Brookshire began his career in the finance industry, working as a financier to the Arts & Entertainment industries in Los Angeles upon graduation from Stanford University. As a banker, Nathan structured financing solutions for complex transactions, including fine art acquisitions, TV and film production, and real estate development projects. His banking experience led Nathan’s introduction to the art and design community in Los Angeles, and gave him a strong foundation in understanding the unique business, operating, and financial capital needs of creative companies. Nathan continued to sharpen his business acumen at such blue chip companies as Barclays Capital, Warner Bros., and Netflix, working in mergers and acquisitions and leading corporate strategic decisions. Having forged deep connections within the art and design space, Nathan left the corporate world to bring institutional-grade financial and strategic advisory services to smaller, creative companies in need of analytical rigor and general business management. In 2018 Nathan co-founded D:AM to formally represent and manage design talent. Nathan holds a BA from Stanford University and a MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Paul Davidge is the co-founder of D:AM as well as the owner of Not So General, a gallery for contemporary design in Los Angeles. Paul has an extensive business and operational background, first having worked as a finance attorney for Sidley Austin law firm working on $1bn+ transactions and then as a business development and strategy executive in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Whilst in entertainment, Paul helped Relativity Media grow in size from less than 15 employees to over 300 in under 5 years. He also worked as Chief Operating Officer for Exclusive Media responsible for the international division of the company. Paul has also advised other production companies as well as high net worth individuals on business development, strategy and growth. In an environment when creatives are taking responsibility for the own destinies, Paul co-founded D:AM in order to apply his experience to help them manage and grow their own companies and enable them to focus on doing what they love most - creating. Connect with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Have you signed up for your trade account with Kravet yet? No minimums on anything. One sofa, one rug, 1 yard of fabric, whatever you need, when you need it. Go to kravet.com and get started. Don't forget to use your one time code at checkout for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. AWDB10 at checkout  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge of Design: Agency & Management share how they help creatives develop a financially sound path to achieve their goals and run their business in such a way that they have the freedom to focus on their zone of genius.

Pick it apart:

[12:51] LuAnn and guests discuss the criteria to work with Design: Agency and Management

[32:45] Nathan reveals the challenge all his design clients share

[37:27] Nathan shares how he helped a designer negotiate their fee with her client

[39:51] LuAnn recaps DAM’s monthly management/representation service 

[44:15] Nathan shares how a designer would introduce DAM and explain their role to their client

LuAnn, Nathan and Paul's Ah-Ha moments:

“The design industry has not been as successful as some other industries in articulating their value to their client.” - Paul Davidge

 

“You really need to hone your negotiation skills.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“You’ve got to be able to stand up and play the chess game with them.” - LuAnn Nigara

  More About Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge

Nathan Brookshire began his career in the finance industry, working as a financier to the Arts & Entertainment industries in Los Angeles upon graduation from Stanford University. As a banker, Nathan structured financing solutions for complex transactions, including fine art acquisitions, TV and film production, and real estate development projects. His banking experience led Nathan’s introduction to the art and design community in Los Angeles, and gave him a strong foundation in understanding the unique business, operating, and financial capital needs of creative companies.

Nathan continued to sharpen his business acumen at such blue chip companies as Barclays Capital, Warner Bros., and Netflix, working in mergers and acquisitions and leading corporate strategic decisions. Having forged deep connections within the art and design space, Nathan left the corporate world to bring institutional-grade financial and strategic advisory services to smaller, creative companies in need of analytical rigor and general business management.

In 2018 Nathan co-founded D:AM to formally represent and manage design talent. Nathan holds a BA from Stanford University and a MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.

Paul Davidge is the co-founder of D:AM as well as the owner of Not So General, a gallery for contemporary design in Los Angeles. Paul has an extensive business and operational background, first having worked as a finance attorney for Sidley Austin law firm working on $1bn+ transactions and then as a business development and strategy executive in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles.

Whilst in entertainment, Paul helped Relativity Media grow in size from less than 15 employees to over 300 in under 5 years. He also worked as Chief Operating Officer for Exclusive Media responsible for the international division of the company. Paul has also advised other production companies as well as high net worth individuals on business development, strategy and growth.

In an environment when creatives are taking responsibility for the own destinies, Paul co-founded D:AM in order to apply his experience to help them manage and grow their own companies and enable them to focus on doing what they love most - creating.

Connect with Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Have you signed up for your trade account with Kravet yet? No minimums on anything. One sofa, one rug, 1 yard of fabric, whatever you need, when you need it. Go to kravet.com and get started. Don't forget to use your one time code at checkout for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. AWDB10 at checkout 

]]> 4031 no 642: Thom Sweeney: Sage Advice About Salesmanship And The Upside of Failure in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/642-thom-sweeney-sage-advice-about-salesmanship-and-the-upside-of-failure-in-interior-design Today with Thom Sweeney: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Thom Sweeney’s unconventional path to interior design started after a 30-year career in advertising. Thom shares what brought him to design and how he lost his design business before rising again to build something even greater. He also has great advice on salesmanship and how to build meaningful relationships with clients. Pick it apart: [22:45] Thom and LuAnn discuss the importance of design that matches the client’s expectations [34:18] Thom and LuAnn both shares their respective experiences navigating a failing business [43:20] LuAnn suggest how to debrief after a failure [46:49] Thom shares how critical sales skills are to a design business [51:34] LuAnn shares her advice on sales   LuAnn and Thom Sweeney’s Ah-Ha moments: “Nothing comes out of the huge failure if we don’t stand up again.” - LuAnn Nigara “Are there any real, true failures?” - LuAnn Nigara “Sales is creating a win-win.” - LuAnn NIgara “Diversity in your client list is critical.” - Thom Sweeney “You can never take that day you closed your doors and say, ‘I’m done’.” Thom Sweeney Connect with Thom Sweeney: Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the place to manage, run and grow your interior design business.  Features include  - Project Management, a Branded Portal, so when your clients log in, it looks and feels like they are logging into your business, invoicing, Purchase Orders, and Credit Card Payments, Product Management and QB integration and so much more. Start your trial today and see for yourself how much easier it could be to run your design firm. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   Tue, 16 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Thom Sweeney: Sage Advice About Salesmanship And The Upside of Failure in Interior Design full 642 LuAnn Nigara Today with Thom Sweeney: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Thom Sweeney’s unconventional path to interior design started after a 30-year career in advertising. Thom shares what brought him to design and how he lost his design business before... Today with Thom Sweeney: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Thom Sweeney’s unconventional path to interior design started after a 30-year career in advertising. Thom shares what brought him to design and how he lost his design business before rising again to build something even greater. He also has great advice on salesmanship and how to build meaningful relationships with clients. Pick it apart: [22:45] Thom and LuAnn discuss the importance of design that matches the client’s expectations [34:18] Thom and LuAnn both shares their respective experiences navigating a failing business [43:20] LuAnn suggest how to debrief after a failure [46:49] Thom shares how critical sales skills are to a design business [51:34] LuAnn shares her advice on sales   LuAnn and Thom Sweeney’s Ah-Ha moments: “Nothing comes out of the huge failure if we don’t stand up again.” - LuAnn Nigara “Are there any real, true failures?” - LuAnn Nigara “Sales is creating a win-win.” - LuAnn NIgara “Diversity in your client list is critical.” - Thom Sweeney “You can never take that day you closed your doors and say, ‘I’m done’.” Thom Sweeney Connect with Thom Sweeney: Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the place to manage, run and grow your interior design business.  Features include  - Project Management, a Branded Portal, so when your clients log in, it looks and feels like they are logging into your business, invoicing, Purchase Orders, and Credit Card Payments, Product Management and QB integration and so much more. Start your trial today and see for yourself how much easier it could be to run your design firm. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Thom Sweeney’s unconventional path to interior design started after a 30-year career in advertising. Thom shares what brought him to design and how he lost his design business before rising again to build something even greater. He also has great advice on salesmanship and how to build meaningful relationships with clients.

Pick it apart:

[22:45] Thom and LuAnn discuss the importance of design that matches the client’s expectations

[34:18] Thom and LuAnn both shares their respective experiences navigating a failing business

[43:20] LuAnn suggest how to debrief after a failure

[46:49] Thom shares how critical sales skills are to a design business

[51:34] LuAnn shares her advice on sales

 

LuAnn and Thom Sweeney’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Nothing comes out of the huge failure if we don’t stand up again.” - LuAnn Nigara

“Are there any real, true failures?” - LuAnn Nigara

“Sales is creating a win-win.” - LuAnn NIgara

“Diversity in your client list is critical.” - Thom Sweeney

“You can never take that day you closed your doors and say, ‘I’m done’.” Thom Sweeney

Connect with Thom Sweeney:

Instagram 

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is the place to manage, run and grow your interior design business.  Features include  - Project Management, a Branded Portal, so when your clients log in, it looks and feels like they are logging into your business, invoicing, Purchase Orders, and Credit Card Payments, Product Management and QB integration and so much more. Start your trial today and see for yourself how much easier it could be to run your design firm. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

 

]]> 3225 no 641: Celebrating 5 Years: Reflecting on the Bigger Picture http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/641-celebrating-5-years-reflecting-on-the-bigger-picture Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, we are celebrating the show's 5th Birthday! It is hard to believe that there have been five years of outstanding guests, infinite ah-ha moments, and countless businesses changed. Thank you for coming along for the ride. As a way to show my gratitude, this episode is all about reflecting on the bigger picture, and ways we can give back, center ourselves, and enrich our minds. Thank you all for choosing to spend your time with me every week.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Resources and Links: Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club—it’s not just a showhouse.   The Black Artists and Designer’s Guild       His House for Her    Housing Works   Savvy Giving by Design   The Trevor Project    NAMI- NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL HEALTH   5 Books to consider: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Profit First by Mike Michalowicz What I know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey As Man Thinketh by James Allen The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon             Mon, 15 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Celebrating 5 Years: Reflecting on the Bigger Picture full 641 LuAnn Nigara Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, we are celebrating the show's 5th Birthday! It is hard to believe that there have been five years of outstanding guests, infinite ah-ha moments, and countless businesses changed. Thank... Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, we are celebrating the show's 5th Birthday! It is hard to believe that there have been five years of outstanding guests, infinite ah-ha moments, and countless businesses changed. Thank you for coming along for the ride. As a way to show my gratitude, this episode is all about reflecting on the bigger picture, and ways we can give back, center ourselves, and enrich our minds. Thank you all for choosing to spend your time with me every week.  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Resources and Links: Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club—it’s not just a showhouse.   The Black Artists and Designer’s Guild       His House for Her    Housing Works   Savvy Giving by Design   The Trevor Project    NAMI- NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL HEALTH   5 Books to consider: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Profit First by Mike Michalowicz What I know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey As Man Thinketh by James Allen The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon             Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, we are celebrating the show's 5th Birthday! It is hard to believe that there have been five years of outstanding guests, infinite ah-ha moments, and countless businesses changed. Thank you for coming along for the ride.

As a way to show my gratitude, this episode is all about reflecting on the bigger picture, and ways we can give back, center ourselves, and enrich our minds. Thank you all for choosing to spend your time with me every week. 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Resources and Links: Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club—it’s not just a showhouse.

 

The Black Artists and Designer’s Guild

 

 

 

His House for Her 

 

Housing Works

 

Savvy Giving by Design

 

The Trevor Project 

 

NAMI- NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL HEALTH

 

5 Books to consider:

The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino

The E-Myth by Michael Gerber

Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

What I know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey

As Man Thinketh by James Allen

The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> 2408 no 640: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell, Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/640-power-talk-friday-ashley-connell-founder-of-prowess-helping-you-find-your-next-hire Today with Ashley Connell:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today we’re going to talk about one of those key things you have to do in your business if you want to grow—outsourcing. We all know we need to do it, but finding the right fit is a major challenge. Ashley Connell of Prowess runs a business that matches you with your perfect fit business manager or employee. She’s sharing with us how she makes those perfect fits and the impact it can have on your business.  Pick it apart: [3:40] Ashley gives an overview of what Prowess is and how it connects business owners with employees [9:15] Ashley and LuAnn talk about the importance of finding someone that fits your personality type, work method, and communication style [17:27] Ashley breaks down her process and how her algorithm produces results that fit your business [25:54] LuAnn and Ashley discuss how scaling your business leads to different needs and how Prowess accounts for that [34:42] Ashley shares her mission of advocating for women and how that plays into her business model   LuAnn and Ashley Connell’s Ah-Ha moments: “When a designer wants to stay in his/her land of creativity, there’s a need for that other person that’s paying attention to everything that happens under the operations umbrella as opposed to being the executor of the operations umbrella.” -LuAnn Nigara “We’re not just matching based on the skills you need, but also your behavior styles, your communication style, and your personality.” -Ashley Connell “I believe that it is very hard to effectively manage a 2-3 million dollar firm without a strong business manager.” -LuAnn Nigara “By staying in your lane you’re more efficient. It has been proven that if you outsource, you increase your productivity by between 10-100 percent.” -Ashley Connell More About Ashley Connell: Ashley Connell, CEO and Founder of Prowess, is one part fearless entrepreneur, one part fearless women’s advocate. For the first 15 years of her career, she was an award-winning tech marketer in both Austin and London.  Ashley’s unstoppable drive to have both a career and time for family motivated her to start Prowess.  Her commitment to changing the lives of overloaded employers, women seeking rewarding work, and those affected by the gender pay gap, has landed her thought leadership pieces in Forbes, Built in Austin and at SXSW. In her pretty much non-existent spare time she enjoys yoga, walks with her bulldog, cheering on her beloved Longhorns, and spaghetti and meatballs. Connect with Ashley Connell: Website  Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch has just unveiled their new Briza Motorization feature to give your clients control of their draperies from anywhere. They’re easy to install and compatible with third-party home systems, and they are available on all of Kirsch’s most popular drapery tracks. Visit Kirsch.com today to learn more. Other Shows Mentioned:  #525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success   #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit   #450 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Fri, 12 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Connell, Founder of Prowess: Helping You Find Your Next Hire full 640 LuAnn Nigara Today with Ashley Connell:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today we’re going to talk about one of those key things you have to do in your business if you want to grow—outsourcing. We all know we need to do it, but finding the right... Today with Ashley Connell:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today we’re going to talk about one of those key things you have to do in your business if you want to grow—outsourcing. We all know we need to do it, but finding the right fit is a major challenge. Ashley Connell of Prowess runs a business that matches you with your perfect fit business manager or employee. She’s sharing with us how she makes those perfect fits and the impact it can have on your business.  Pick it apart: [3:40] Ashley gives an overview of what Prowess is and how it connects business owners with employees [9:15] Ashley and LuAnn talk about the importance of finding someone that fits your personality type, work method, and communication style [17:27] Ashley breaks down her process and how her algorithm produces results that fit your business [25:54] LuAnn and Ashley discuss how scaling your business leads to different needs and how Prowess accounts for that [34:42] Ashley shares her mission of advocating for women and how that plays into her business model   LuAnn and Ashley Connell’s Ah-Ha moments: “When a designer wants to stay in his/her land of creativity, there’s a need for that other person that’s paying attention to everything that happens under the operations umbrella as opposed to being the executor of the operations umbrella.” -LuAnn Nigara “We’re not just matching based on the skills you need, but also your behavior styles, your communication style, and your personality.” -Ashley Connell “I believe that it is very hard to effectively manage a 2-3 million dollar firm without a strong business manager.” -LuAnn Nigara “By staying in your lane you’re more efficient. It has been proven that if you outsource, you increase your productivity by between 10-100 percent.” -Ashley Connell More About Ashley Connell: Ashley Connell, CEO and Founder of Prowess, is one part fearless entrepreneur, one part fearless women’s advocate. For the first 15 years of her career, she was an award-winning tech marketer in both Austin and London.  Ashley’s unstoppable drive to have both a career and time for family motivated her to start Prowess.  Her commitment to changing the lives of overloaded employers, women seeking rewarding work, and those affected by the gender pay gap, has landed her thought leadership pieces in Forbes, Built in Austin and at SXSW. In her pretty much non-existent spare time she enjoys yoga, walks with her bulldog, cheering on her beloved Longhorns, and spaghetti and meatballs. Connect with Ashley Connell: Website  Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch has just unveiled their new Briza Motorization feature to give your clients control of their draperies from anywhere. They’re easy to install and compatible with third-party home systems, and they are available on all of Kirsch’s most popular drapery tracks. Visit Kirsch.com today to learn more. Other Shows Mentioned:  #525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success   #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit   #450 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design   #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team   #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million Today with Ashley Connell: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today we’re going to talk about one of those key things you have to do in your business if you want to grow—outsourcing. We all know we need to do it, but finding the right fit is a major challenge. Ashley Connell of Prowess runs a business that matches you with your perfect fit business manager or employee. She’s sharing with us how she makes those perfect fits and the impact it can have on your business. 

Pick it apart:

  • [3:40] Ashley gives an overview of what Prowess is and how it connects business owners with employees
  • [9:15] Ashley and LuAnn talk about the importance of finding someone that fits your personality type, work method, and communication style
  • [17:27] Ashley breaks down her process and how her algorithm produces results that fit your business
  • [25:54] LuAnn and Ashley discuss how scaling your business leads to different needs and how Prowess accounts for that
  • [34:42] Ashley shares her mission of advocating for women and how that plays into her business model

 

LuAnn and Ashley Connell’s Ah-Ha moments:

“When a designer wants to stay in his/her land of creativity, there’s a need for that other person that’s paying attention to everything that happens under the operations umbrella as opposed to being the executor of the operations umbrella.” -LuAnn Nigara

“We’re not just matching based on the skills you need, but also your behavior styles, your communication style, and your personality.” -Ashley Connell

“I believe that it is very hard to effectively manage a 2-3 million dollar firm without a strong business manager.” -LuAnn Nigara

“By staying in your lane you’re more efficient. It has been proven that if you outsource, you increase your productivity by between 10-100 percent.” -Ashley Connell

More About Ashley Connell:

Ashley Connell, CEO and Founder of Prowess, is one part fearless entrepreneur, one part fearless women’s advocate. For the first 15 years of her career, she was an award-winning tech marketer in both Austin and London.  Ashley’s unstoppable drive to have both a career and time for family motivated her to start Prowess.  Her commitment to changing the lives of overloaded employers, women seeking rewarding work, and those affected by the gender pay gap, has landed her thought leadership pieces in Forbes, Built in Austin and at SXSW. In her pretty much non-existent spare time she enjoys yoga, walks with her bulldog, cheering on her beloved Longhorns, and spaghetti and meatballs.

Connect with Ashley Connell:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook  

LinkedIn

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch has just unveiled their new Briza Motorization feature to give your clients control of their draperies from anywhere. They’re easy to install and compatible with third-party home systems, and they are available on all of Kirsch’s most popular drapery tracks. Visit Kirsch.com today to learn more.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success

 

#554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

 

#450 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design

 

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

 

#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

]]> 3344 no 639: Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/639-mina-duque-starting-an-interior-design-firm-in-a-foreign-melting-pot Today with Mina Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Can you imagine starting your firm in a foreign city—one where you have no connections, no network, and where you haven’t even visited? That’s exactly what Mina Duque ended up doing. Today, she’s sharing her story of how she started her business in Tulum, the unique challenges presented by working in a major melting pot, and how she grew her business even without a community and network.    Pick it apart: [18:00] Mina shares the challenges and triumphs of working with different cultures and communication styles. [36:24] LuAnn and Mina discuss the value of mentorship and how to set parameters within the relationship. [44:38] Mina discusses how 3D renderings not only changed the landscape of her business but gave way to her husband starting his own rendering design company.  [52:54] LuAnn and Mina talk about the book Rocket Fuel and the importance of intentionally scoping out business goals.  LuAnn and Mina Duque’s Ah-Ha moments: “We do that all the time in business...we say to our vendors, ‘Just give it to me straight, I need to know.’ But you’re saying as a culture, that’s not likely to happen. It’s so deeply engrained...and to them, there’s a level of respect in not saying a boldfaced no.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I always tell my vendors, I so prefer that if you think that something is going to take two weeks, tell me it’s going to take four weeks, because if you deliver sooner, I’m happy, but if you deliver later, I’m not happy.” -Mina Duque   “We get really good at visualizing, but that’s not everyone’s forte. So something that sounds really good or looks good on paper, when you see it in real life, you’re like, ‘I’m not really crazy about that.’” -Mina Duque   “It builds so much more trust and confidence in my client when I can show them everything in advance before they start spending money.” -Mina Duque   More About Mina Duque: Mina, the principal designer at Interiors Tulum, founded the firm in early 2019. Her style is influenced by her unique background growing up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Mina grew up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Her degree from USC, along with her world travels and experience as a property manager for Airbnb’s, influence her design and decision-making process every step of the way. Her Moroccan background adds a unique accent to her designs blended with the relaxed, Caribbean bohemian vibe that she works with so often. She is an ambitious, driven woman, enjoys research, suffers little risk adversity, and celebrates exploring new cultures and ideas. Now with her business expanding she has a few employees and is striving to create a company culture that reflects her values of honesty, reliability, authenticity, and passion. Working with people from different backgrounds and celebrating their cultures energizes Mina as she loves to learn about their history and discover ways that she can help them enhance their lifestyle by designing relaxing and luxurious living spaces. Currently based in Tulum, Mexico, Mina lives with her husband, Fernando, and their high-energy rescue pup, Lulu. Connect with Mina Duque: Website  Instagram   Facebook    What's new with LuAnn Nigara www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: Revel Woods is dedicated to providing premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and needs. They offer a wide range of perks for perks we offer interior designers, contractors, & industry professionals. Visit revelwoods.com today to get started.   Kravet: Kravet is the industry leader in to the trade home furnishings. You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcoverings.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years Tue, 09 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Mina Duque: Starting an Interior Design Firm in a Foreign Melting Pot full 639 LuAnn Nigara Today with Mina Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Can you imagine starting your firm in a foreign city—one where you have no connections, no network, and where you haven’t even visited? That’s exactly what Mina Duque ended up doing.... Today with Mina Duque: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Can you imagine starting your firm in a foreign city—one where you have no connections, no network, and where you haven’t even visited? That’s exactly what Mina Duque ended up doing. Today, she’s sharing her story of how she started her business in Tulum, the unique challenges presented by working in a major melting pot, and how she grew her business even without a community and network.    Pick it apart: [18:00] Mina shares the challenges and triumphs of working with different cultures and communication styles. [36:24] LuAnn and Mina discuss the value of mentorship and how to set parameters within the relationship. [44:38] Mina discusses how 3D renderings not only changed the landscape of her business but gave way to her husband starting his own rendering design company.  [52:54] LuAnn and Mina talk about the book Rocket Fuel and the importance of intentionally scoping out business goals.  LuAnn and Mina Duque’s Ah-Ha moments: “We do that all the time in business...we say to our vendors, ‘Just give it to me straight, I need to know.’ But you’re saying as a culture, that’s not likely to happen. It’s so deeply engrained...and to them, there’s a level of respect in not saying a boldfaced no.” -LuAnn Nigara   “I always tell my vendors, I so prefer that if you think that something is going to take two weeks, tell me it’s going to take four weeks, because if you deliver sooner, I’m happy, but if you deliver later, I’m not happy.” -Mina Duque   “We get really good at visualizing, but that’s not everyone’s forte. So something that sounds really good or looks good on paper, when you see it in real life, you’re like, ‘I’m not really crazy about that.’” -Mina Duque   “It builds so much more trust and confidence in my client when I can show them everything in advance before they start spending money.” -Mina Duque   More About Mina Duque: Mina, the principal designer at Interiors Tulum, founded the firm in early 2019. Her style is influenced by her unique background growing up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Mina grew up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Her degree from USC, along with her world travels and experience as a property manager for Airbnb’s, influence her design and decision-making process every step of the way. Her Moroccan background adds a unique accent to her designs blended with the relaxed, Caribbean bohemian vibe that she works with so often. She is an ambitious, driven woman, enjoys research, suffers little risk adversity, and celebrates exploring new cultures and ideas. Now with her business expanding she has a few employees and is striving to create a company culture that reflects her values of honesty, reliability, authenticity, and passion. Working with people from different backgrounds and celebrating their cultures energizes Mina as she loves to learn about their history and discover ways that she can help them enhance their lifestyle by designing relaxing and luxurious living spaces. Currently based in Tulum, Mexico, Mina lives with her husband, Fernando, and their high-energy rescue pup, Lulu. Connect with Mina Duque: Website  Instagram   Facebook    What's new with LuAnn Nigara www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: Revel Woods is dedicated to providing premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and needs. They offer a wide range of perks for perks we offer interior designers, contractors, & industry professionals. Visit revelwoods.com today to get started.   Kravet: Kravet is the industry leader in to the trade home furnishings. You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcoverings.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years Today with Mina Duque:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Can you imagine starting your firm in a foreign city—one where you have no connections, no network, and where you haven’t even visited? That’s exactly what Mina Duque ended up doing. Today, she’s sharing her story of how she started her business in Tulum, the unique challenges presented by working in a major melting pot, and how she grew her business even without a community and network. 

 

Pick it apart:

  • [18:00] Mina shares the challenges and triumphs of working with different cultures and communication styles.
  • [36:24] LuAnn and Mina discuss the value of mentorship and how to set parameters within the relationship.
  • [44:38] Mina discusses how 3D renderings not only changed the landscape of her business but gave way to her husband starting his own rendering design company. 
  • [52:54] LuAnn and Mina talk about the book Rocket Fuel and the importance of intentionally scoping out business goals. 

LuAnn and Mina Duque’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We do that all the time in business...we say to our vendors, ‘Just give it to me straight, I need to know.’ But you’re saying as a culture, that’s not likely to happen. It’s so deeply engrained...and to them, there’s a level of respect in not saying a boldfaced no.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“I always tell my vendors, I so prefer that if you think that something is going to take two weeks, tell me it’s going to take four weeks, because if you deliver sooner, I’m happy, but if you deliver later, I’m not happy.” -Mina Duque

 

“We get really good at visualizing, but that’s not everyone’s forte. So something that sounds really good or looks good on paper, when you see it in real life, you’re like, ‘I’m not really crazy about that.’” -Mina Duque

 

“It builds so much more trust and confidence in my client when I can show them everything in advance before they start spending money.” -Mina Duque

 

More About Mina Duque:

Mina, the principal designer at Interiors Tulum, founded the firm in early 2019. Her style is influenced by her unique background growing up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Mina grew up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Her degree from USC, along with her world travels and experience as a property manager for Airbnb’s, influence her design and decision-making process every step of the way. Her Moroccan background adds a unique accent to her designs blended with the relaxed, Caribbean bohemian vibe that she works with so often. She is an ambitious, driven woman, enjoys research, suffers little risk adversity, and celebrates exploring new cultures and ideas. Now with her business expanding she has a few employees and is striving to create a company culture that reflects her values of honesty, reliability, authenticity, and passion. Working with people from different backgrounds and celebrating their cultures energizes Mina as she loves to learn about their history and discover ways that she can help them enhance their lifestyle by designing relaxing and luxurious living spaces. Currently based in Tulum, Mexico, Mina lives with her husband, Fernando, and their high-energy rescue pup, Lulu.

Connect with Mina Duque:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods: Revel Woods is dedicated to providing premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and needs. They offer a wide range of perks for perks we offer interior designers, contractors, & industry professionals. Visit revelwoods.com today to get started.

 

Kravet: Kravet is the industry leader in to the trade home furnishings. You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcoverings. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

]]> 3593 no 638: What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren't Made to Be Broken http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/638-what-would-lu-do-processes-and-contracts-they-arent-made-to-be-broken Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today, LuAnn gives her expert advise on what to do when a client won't pay. Is there something more you can do to protect yourself?  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is reliable, dependable and innovative so think of them when you need to specify drapery hardware. From the motorized Briza collection, to the recently updated Buckingham collection to the tried and true architectural collections, go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.  Other Shows Mentioned: Jamie Lieberman: #547 and #454 Fri, 05 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren't Made to Be Broken full 638 LuAnn Nigara Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today, LuAnn gives her expert... Today with LuAnn: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today, LuAnn gives her expert advise on what to do when a client won't pay. Is there something more you can do to protect yourself?  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is reliable, dependable and innovative so think of them when you need to specify drapery hardware. From the motorized Briza collection, to the recently updated Buckingham collection to the tried and true architectural collections, go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.  Other Shows Mentioned: Jamie Lieberman: #547 and #454 Today with LuAnn:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting.

Today, LuAnn gives her expert advise on what to do when a client won't pay. Is there something more you can do to protect yourself? 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch is reliable, dependable and innovative so think of them when you need to specify drapery hardware. From the motorized Briza collection, to the recently updated Buckingham collection to the tried and true architectural collections, go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you. 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Jamie Lieberman: #547 and #454

]]> 2359 no 637: Carley Page Summers: Lift Others As You Climb to Success. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/637-carley-page-summers-lift-others-as-you-climb-to-success Today with Carley Page Summers:  Carley Page Summers shares her journey to interior design that began only after she first built a robust photography business catering to the design trade. 184k Instagram followers strong, Carley chronicles how just nine years ago, she pulled herself out of a dark place, found hope, and is now on a mission to inspire hope in others. Pick it apart: [2:49] Carley shares her journey from photographer to designer [7:34] Carley shares her philosophy about the attraction to natural settings [11:50] Carley shares how she started her virtual design business [18:53] Carley shares her Instagram strategy  [42:56] Charley shares her mission statement LuAnn and Carley Page Summers' Ah-Ha moments: “Lift as you climb.” - Carley Page Summers “The world would say I’m a failure...but it goes to show that you can set your mind to something and hope and grow.” - Carley Page Summers “It is useless to look back on your path and feel shame. Instead, see the accomplishment and joy you have created.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Carley Page Summers: Photography has been a passion of mine since a young age and is not just my career path but is also part of my soul. During an especially difficult time in my life, while living & volunteering in Haiti, I was inspired by the culture and all the people around me and was able to use photography as a way to help narrate their stories. After returning home, I studied art and graduated with a fine arts degree with a focus in photography and painting. Interiors and design became an interest turned passion and naturally there was a union of the two things that inspired me, photography and interiors. With interior photography, I am able to help clients and brands narrate their stories. Clients have the benefit of being able to choose full-service options with my packages because they include creative, styling and photography all in one. Additionally with interiors, I love helping create a truly sacred space for clients and their loved ones to enjoy. I love a mixture of curated textiles, clean whites, and of course plants to make a space feel peaceful yet full of life. With my interior styling services, I hope to not only style a space but also to document it for others to see so they can also be inspired.   Connect with Carley Page Summers Website  Instagram   What's new with LuAnn Nigara www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: At Mydoma Studio they are always iterating to continually serve you better, and more intuitively. Mydoma Studio is the best place to manage your interior design projects easily and efficiently. Everything from mood board creation, invoicing, QuickBooks integration, and vendor and client communication within the specific project the communication. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness for the special offers they have for you as a listener of this podcast.     Tue, 02 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Carley Page Summers: Lift Others As You Climb to Success. full 637 LuAnn Nigara Today with Carley Page Summers:  Carley Page Summers shares her journey to interior design that began only after she first built a robust photography business catering to the design trade. 184k Instagram followers strong, Carley chronicles how... Today with Carley Page Summers:  Carley Page Summers shares her journey to interior design that began only after she first built a robust photography business catering to the design trade. 184k Instagram followers strong, Carley chronicles how just nine years ago, she pulled herself out of a dark place, found hope, and is now on a mission to inspire hope in others. Pick it apart: [2:49] Carley shares her journey from photographer to designer [7:34] Carley shares her philosophy about the attraction to natural settings [11:50] Carley shares how she started her virtual design business [18:53] Carley shares her Instagram strategy  [42:56] Charley shares her mission statement LuAnn and Carley Page Summers' Ah-Ha moments: “Lift as you climb.” - Carley Page Summers “The world would say I’m a failure...but it goes to show that you can set your mind to something and hope and grow.” - Carley Page Summers “It is useless to look back on your path and feel shame. Instead, see the accomplishment and joy you have created.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Carley Page Summers: Photography has been a passion of mine since a young age and is not just my career path but is also part of my soul. During an especially difficult time in my life, while living & volunteering in Haiti, I was inspired by the culture and all the people around me and was able to use photography as a way to help narrate their stories. After returning home, I studied art and graduated with a fine arts degree with a focus in photography and painting. Interiors and design became an interest turned passion and naturally there was a union of the two things that inspired me, photography and interiors. With interior photography, I am able to help clients and brands narrate their stories. Clients have the benefit of being able to choose full-service options with my packages because they include creative, styling and photography all in one. Additionally with interiors, I love helping create a truly sacred space for clients and their loved ones to enjoy. I love a mixture of curated textiles, clean whites, and of course plants to make a space feel peaceful yet full of life. With my interior styling services, I hope to not only style a space but also to document it for others to see so they can also be inspired.   Connect with Carley Page Summers Website  Instagram   What's new with LuAnn Nigara www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: At Mydoma Studio they are always iterating to continually serve you better, and more intuitively. Mydoma Studio is the best place to manage your interior design projects easily and efficiently. Everything from mood board creation, invoicing, QuickBooks integration, and vendor and client communication within the specific project the communication. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness for the special offers they have for you as a listener of this podcast.     Today with Carley Page Summers: 

Carley Page Summers shares her journey to interior design that began only after she first built a robust photography business catering to the design trade. 184k Instagram followers strong, Carley chronicles how just nine years ago, she pulled herself out of a dark place, found hope, and is now on a mission to inspire hope in others.

Pick it apart:

[2:49] Carley shares her journey from photographer to designer

[7:34] Carley shares her philosophy about the attraction to natural settings

[11:50] Carley shares how she started her virtual design business

[18:53] Carley shares her Instagram strategy 

[42:56] Charley shares her mission statement

LuAnn and Carley Page Summers' Ah-Ha moments:

“Lift as you climb.” - Carley Page Summers

“The world would say I’m a failure...but it goes to show that you can set your mind to something and hope and grow.” - Carley Page Summers

“It is useless to look back on your path and feel shame. Instead, see the accomplishment and joy you have created.” - LuAnn Nigara

More About Carley Page Summers:

Photography has been a passion of mine since a young age and is not just my career path but is also part of my soul. During an especially difficult time in my life, while living & volunteering in Haiti, I was inspired by the culture and all the people around me and was able to use photography as a way to help narrate their stories. After returning home, I studied art and graduated with a fine arts degree with a focus in photography and painting. Interiors and design became an interest turned passion and naturally there was a union of the two things that inspired me, photography and interiors.

With interior photography, I am able to help clients and brands narrate their stories. Clients have the benefit of being able to choose full-service options with my packages because they include creative, styling and photography all in one.

Additionally with interiors, I love helping create a truly sacred space for clients and their loved ones to enjoy. I love a mixture of curated textiles, clean whites, and of course plants to make a space feel peaceful yet full of life. With my interior styling services, I hope to not only style a space but also to document it for others to see so they can also be inspired.

 

Connect with Carley Page Summers

Website 

Instagram

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

At Mydoma Studio they are always iterating to continually serve you better, and more intuitively. Mydoma Studio is the best place to manage your interior design projects easily and efficiently. Everything from mood board creation, invoicing, QuickBooks integration, and vendor and client communication within the specific project the communication. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness for the special offers they have for you as a listener of this podcast.

 

 

]]> 3308 no 636: Window Treatment Friday Ep. 13: On-Air Coaching with Vita http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/636-window-treatment-friday-ep-13-on-air-coaching-with-vita Today with Vita Vygovska For Window Treatment Friday, LuAnn and Vita conduct a live coaching session around a big issue that so many businesses encounter when they scale—clients wanting you on their project, not your staff. Listen to see how LuAnn advises Vita and prepares her to eliminate her problem with confidence and some carefully chosen words.  LuAnn and Vita's Aha-Moments “Having the combination of a virtual hug and a little bit of a whip is very unique.” - Vita Vygovska “If you only get comfort, then you don’t learn how to avoid that the next time.” - LuAnn Nigara “If I don’t press you and urge you to find the place where only you could have changed the outcome, you’re destined to repeat it.” - LuAnn Nigara “We can go back and own the moment.” - LuAnn Nigara   Picking It Apart [11:34] LuAnn shares why we could all benefit from coaching [16:13] Vita shares the struggle she is having in her business [19:17] LuAnn gives an example of how she solves the same problem at Window Works [26:02] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a nuance of her original struggle [30:08] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a second nuance of her original struggle [38:37] LuAnn shares a funny story about what happened when she didn’t take her own advice More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Kirsch is a reliable go to resource for all of your drapery hardware needs. Have you heard about all of the features Kirsch has built into their motorized Briza rod? Let me tell you a few: Motor mounts to the back of the track which allows a seamless look if you have motorized and cord or baton traverse rods in the same room. The Drapery fabrication specs do not need to change between cord or baton controlled draperies and motorized draperies-- this is nice- cuts down on errors--- ask me how I know--lol No additional returns or any special instructions-- also very nice feature Limits are set automatically after installationRemote control is radio frequency and easily pairs with the motorTug feature; when drapery is pulled the motor will traverse the draperyNew Neo Smart Controller allows for easy integration with third party home systems. So go to Kirsch.com today, find the dealer in your area and learn how Kirsch can help you on your next window treatment project.     Fri, 29 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday Ep. 13: On-Air Coaching with Vita full 636 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska For Window Treatment Friday, LuAnn and Vita conduct a live coaching session around a big issue that so many businesses encounter when they scale—clients wanting you on their project, not your staff. Listen to see how LuAnn... Today with Vita Vygovska For Window Treatment Friday, LuAnn and Vita conduct a live coaching session around a big issue that so many businesses encounter when they scale—clients wanting you on their project, not your staff. Listen to see how LuAnn advises Vita and prepares her to eliminate her problem with confidence and some carefully chosen words.  LuAnn and Vita's Aha-Moments “Having the combination of a virtual hug and a little bit of a whip is very unique.” - Vita Vygovska “If you only get comfort, then you don’t learn how to avoid that the next time.” - LuAnn Nigara “If I don’t press you and urge you to find the place where only you could have changed the outcome, you’re destined to repeat it.” - LuAnn Nigara “We can go back and own the moment.” - LuAnn Nigara   Picking It Apart [11:34] LuAnn shares why we could all benefit from coaching [16:13] Vita shares the struggle she is having in her business [19:17] LuAnn gives an example of how she solves the same problem at Window Works [26:02] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a nuance of her original struggle [30:08] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a second nuance of her original struggle [38:37] LuAnn shares a funny story about what happened when she didn’t take her own advice More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Kirsch is a reliable go to resource for all of your drapery hardware needs. Have you heard about all of the features Kirsch has built into their motorized Briza rod? Let me tell you a few: Motor mounts to the back of the track which allows a seamless look if you have motorized and cord or baton traverse rods in the same room. The Drapery fabrication specs do not need to change between cord or baton controlled draperies and motorized draperies-- this is nice- cuts down on errors--- ask me how I know--lol No additional returns or any special instructions-- also very nice feature Limits are set automatically after installationRemote control is radio frequency and easily pairs with the motorTug feature; when drapery is pulled the motor will traverse the draperyNew Neo Smart Controller allows for easy integration with third party home systems. So go to Kirsch.com today, find the dealer in your area and learn how Kirsch can help you on your next window treatment project.     Today with Vita Vygovska

For Window Treatment Friday, LuAnn and Vita conduct a live coaching session around a big issue that so many businesses encounter when they scale—clients wanting you on their project, not your staff. Listen to see how LuAnn advises Vita and prepares her to eliminate her problem with confidence and some carefully chosen words. 

LuAnn and Vita's Aha-Moments

“Having the combination of a virtual hug and a little bit of a whip is very unique.” - Vita Vygovska

“If you only get comfort, then you don’t learn how to avoid that the next time.” - LuAnn Nigara

“If I don’t press you and urge you to find the place where only you could have changed the outcome, you’re destined to repeat it.” - LuAnn Nigara

“We can go back and own the moment.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

Picking It Apart

[11:34] LuAnn shares why we could all benefit from coaching

[16:13] Vita shares the struggle she is having in her business

[19:17] LuAnn gives an example of how she solves the same problem at Window Works

[26:02] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a nuance of her original struggle

[30:08] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a second nuance of her original struggle

[38:37] LuAnn shares a funny story about what happened when she didn’t take her own advice

More About Vita Vygovska

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor

Kirsch is a reliable go to resource for all of your drapery hardware needs. Have you heard about all of the features Kirsch has built into their motorized Briza rod? Let me tell you a few: Motor mounts to the back of the track which allows a seamless look if you have motorized and cord or baton traverse rods in the same room.

The Drapery fabrication specs do not need to change between cord or baton controlled draperies and motorized draperies-- this is nice- cuts down on errors--- ask me how I know--lol No additional returns or any special instructions-- also very nice feature Limits are set automatically after installationRemote control is radio frequency and easily pairs with the motorTug feature; when drapery is pulled the motor will traverse the draperyNew Neo Smart Controller allows for easy integration with third party home systems.

So go to Kirsch.com today, find the dealer in your area and learn how Kirsch can help you on your next window treatment project.  

 

]]> 3263 no 635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/635-beth-diana-smith-refining-process-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Beth Diana Smith Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we welcome Beth Diana Smith back to the show! Beth was last on the show over a year ago, and since then she’s made some major changes to her processes and her business. She’s going to take us through those changes, the way she revamped her processes, and what she’s looking to do in the future. We’re also diving into diversity and inclusivity in the industry, and what all of us can do to contribute and be better allies. Pick it apart [5:12] Beth walks us through the actual steps she took to improve the processes in her business.  [12:10] Beth shares the way she checks in weekly to review her client work and projects to find areas of improvement.  [14:11] Beth discusses two big projects she has completed since her last appearance and what they’ve meant for her business.  [24:11] Beth and LuAnn discuss inclusivity and diversity in the industry and the importance of not staying silent.  [37:57] LuAnn and Beth talk about the need to highlight Black artists and be intentional about diversity. LuAnn and Beth Diana Smith's “Ah-Ha” Moments “I’m always saying to all the designers I work with and coach, and my own team, ‘Ok, so this stinks, this went wrong, but where can you personally wind this back where you could have changed the outcome.’ And there’s always a place, even if 15 other people along the way also made a mistake or dropped the ball.” -LuAnn Nigara “I always want to make sure that my client feels excited because that’s how I want them to feel throughout the process.” -Beth Diana Smith “That moment where I was able to transform something so drastically and people were able to see it throughout the entire house—it was great content.” -Beth Diana Smith “I want people to realize that your silence is just as bad as the person that is the racist, because you are enabling their behavior.” -Beth Diana Smith More About Beth Diana Smith After more than a decade in accounting and finance at companies like Viacom and Johnson & Johnson, Beth Diana Smith left the corporate world to launch her own interior design firm. Her eye for aesthetics paired with her project management experience culminates in a truly unique approach to design. Her signature style is modern and eclectic with luxurious finishes and custom furnishings. Each vignette is a functioning art installation in its own right. Above all, her work is client-centric as she helps each homeowner hone in on their own style and create a space that inspires them and enhances their lifestyle. Beth’s goal for each project is to elevate the lives of her clients by first elevating their daily environment.  Beth holds a MBA and a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. She is a member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, the House Beautiful Advisory Council, and the New York School of Interior Design Task Force on Diversity. And Beth’s work has been on NBC and HGTV, and featured in various outlets including House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Lonny Magazine, and the Business of Home. Connect with Beth Diana Smith Website Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest Twitter YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals. Mydoma can help you free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #439 Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations #184 Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something     Tue, 26 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business full 635 LuAnn Nigara Today with Beth Diana Smith Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we welcome Beth Diana Smith back to the show! Beth was last on the show over a year ago, and since then she’s made some major changes to her processes and her business. She’s... Today with Beth Diana Smith Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we welcome Beth Diana Smith back to the show! Beth was last on the show over a year ago, and since then she’s made some major changes to her processes and her business. She’s going to take us through those changes, the way she revamped her processes, and what she’s looking to do in the future. We’re also diving into diversity and inclusivity in the industry, and what all of us can do to contribute and be better allies. Pick it apart [5:12] Beth walks us through the actual steps she took to improve the processes in her business.  [12:10] Beth shares the way she checks in weekly to review her client work and projects to find areas of improvement.  [14:11] Beth discusses two big projects she has completed since her last appearance and what they’ve meant for her business.  [24:11] Beth and LuAnn discuss inclusivity and diversity in the industry and the importance of not staying silent.  [37:57] LuAnn and Beth talk about the need to highlight Black artists and be intentional about diversity. LuAnn and Beth Diana Smith's “Ah-Ha” Moments “I’m always saying to all the designers I work with and coach, and my own team, ‘Ok, so this stinks, this went wrong, but where can you personally wind this back where you could have changed the outcome.’ And there’s always a place, even if 15 other people along the way also made a mistake or dropped the ball.” -LuAnn Nigara “I always want to make sure that my client feels excited because that’s how I want them to feel throughout the process.” -Beth Diana Smith “That moment where I was able to transform something so drastically and people were able to see it throughout the entire house—it was great content.” -Beth Diana Smith “I want people to realize that your silence is just as bad as the person that is the racist, because you are enabling their behavior.” -Beth Diana Smith More About Beth Diana Smith After more than a decade in accounting and finance at companies like Viacom and Johnson & Johnson, Beth Diana Smith left the corporate world to launch her own interior design firm. Her eye for aesthetics paired with her project management experience culminates in a truly unique approach to design. Her signature style is modern and eclectic with luxurious finishes and custom furnishings. Each vignette is a functioning art installation in its own right. Above all, her work is client-centric as she helps each homeowner hone in on their own style and create a space that inspires them and enhances their lifestyle. Beth’s goal for each project is to elevate the lives of her clients by first elevating their daily environment.  Beth holds a MBA and a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. She is a member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, the House Beautiful Advisory Council, and the New York School of Interior Design Task Force on Diversity. And Beth’s work has been on NBC and HGTV, and featured in various outlets including House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Lonny Magazine, and the Business of Home. Connect with Beth Diana Smith Website Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest Twitter YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals. Mydoma can help you free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Other Shows Mentioned:  #439 Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations #184 Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something     Today with Beth Diana Smith

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we welcome Beth Diana Smith back to the show! Beth was last on the show over a year ago, and since then she’s made some major changes to her processes and her business. She’s going to take us through those changes, the way she revamped her processes, and what she’s looking to do in the future. We’re also diving into diversity and inclusivity in the industry, and what all of us can do to contribute and be better allies.

Pick it apart

  • [5:12] Beth walks us through the actual steps she took to improve the processes in her business. 
  • [12:10] Beth shares the way she checks in weekly to review her client work and projects to find areas of improvement. 
  • [14:11] Beth discusses two big projects she has completed since her last appearance and what they’ve meant for her business. 
  • [24:11] Beth and LuAnn discuss inclusivity and diversity in the industry and the importance of not staying silent. 
  • [37:57] LuAnn and Beth talk about the need to highlight Black artists and be intentional about diversity.

LuAnn and Beth Diana Smith's “Ah-Ha” Moments

“I’m always saying to all the designers I work with and coach, and my own team, ‘Ok, so this stinks, this went wrong, but where can you personally wind this back where you could have changed the outcome.’ And there’s always a place, even if 15 other people along the way also made a mistake or dropped the ball.” -LuAnn Nigara

“I always want to make sure that my client feels excited because that’s how I want them to feel throughout the process.” -Beth Diana Smith

“That moment where I was able to transform something so drastically and people were able to see it throughout the entire house—it was great content.” -Beth Diana Smith

“I want people to realize that your silence is just as bad as the person that is the racist, because you are enabling their behavior.” -Beth Diana Smith

More About Beth Diana Smith

After more than a decade in accounting and finance at companies like Viacom and Johnson & Johnson, Beth Diana Smith left the corporate world to launch her own interior design firm. Her eye for aesthetics paired with her project management experience culminates in a truly unique approach to design. Her signature style is modern and eclectic with luxurious finishes and custom furnishings. Each vignette is a functioning art installation in its own right. Above all, her work is client-centric as she helps each homeowner hone in on their own style and create a space that inspires them and enhances their lifestyle. Beth’s goal for each project is to elevate the lives of her clients by first elevating their daily environment. 

Beth holds a MBA and a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. She is a member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, the House Beautiful Advisory Council, and the New York School of Interior Design Task Force on Diversity. And Beth’s work has been on NBC and HGTV, and featured in various outlets including House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Lonny Magazine, and the Business of Home.

Connect with Beth Diana Smith

Website

Instagram  

Facebook  

Pinterest

Twitter

YouTube

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor

Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals. Mydoma can help you free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#439 Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations

#184 Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

#573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

 

 

]]> 4310 no 634: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/634-power-talk-friday-jessica-harling-a-specific-process-for-onboarding-a-new-hire Today with Jessica Harling: Stop the turnover in your business! Listen in as Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, and a leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations guides us through a simple (not easy) and actionable process of hiring, training, and retaining top staff. Pick it apart: [16:52] Jessica reviews week 1: Process [25:31] LuAnn reviews how she would use Shadowing at Window Works [29:35] Jessics reviews week 2: Product/Services [33:05] Jessica reviews week 3: Paperwork and Pricing  [37:58] Jessica reviews week 4: People [47:35] LuAnn and Jessica review how to set goals for non-sales role such as Office Administrator LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments: “It would be easier to train somebody in the papertrail process if they actually had been physically through the full process.” - LuAnn More About Jessica Harling: Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level. Connect with Jessica Harling: Website  LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Behind the Design Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is a valuable partner to you, the interior designer, as well as to us, window treatment professionals. More than 100 years of innovation in design and technology, creating beautiful as well as functional drapery hardware for any window application you can imagine. Curved rods, ripplefold rods, decorative rods, had draw rods, cord draw rods, motorized rods...when I say everything you need, I do mean everything. Go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.    Other Shows Mentioned: Janelle Photopoulos on episode 364 Joni Vanderslice on episode 101     Fri, 22 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire full 634 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Harling: Stop the turnover in your business! Listen in as Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, and a leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations guides us through a simple (not easy) and... Today with Jessica Harling: Stop the turnover in your business! Listen in as Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, and a leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations guides us through a simple (not easy) and actionable process of hiring, training, and retaining top staff. Pick it apart: [16:52] Jessica reviews week 1: Process [25:31] LuAnn reviews how she would use Shadowing at Window Works [29:35] Jessics reviews week 2: Product/Services [33:05] Jessica reviews week 3: Paperwork and Pricing  [37:58] Jessica reviews week 4: People [47:35] LuAnn and Jessica review how to set goals for non-sales role such as Office Administrator LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments: “It would be easier to train somebody in the papertrail process if they actually had been physically through the full process.” - LuAnn More About Jessica Harling: Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level. Connect with Jessica Harling: Website  LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Behind the Design Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is a valuable partner to you, the interior designer, as well as to us, window treatment professionals. More than 100 years of innovation in design and technology, creating beautiful as well as functional drapery hardware for any window application you can imagine. Curved rods, ripplefold rods, decorative rods, had draw rods, cord draw rods, motorized rods...when I say everything you need, I do mean everything. Go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.    Other Shows Mentioned: Janelle Photopoulos on episode 364 Joni Vanderslice on episode 101     Stop the turnover in your business! Listen in as Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, and a leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations guides us through a simple (not easy) and actionable process of hiring, training, and retaining top staff.

Pick it apart:

[16:52] Jessica reviews week 1: Process

[25:31] LuAnn reviews how she would use Shadowing at Window Works

[29:35] Jessics reviews week 2: Product/Services

[33:05] Jessica reviews week 3: Paperwork and Pricing 

[37:58] Jessica reviews week 4: People

[47:35] LuAnn and Jessica review how to set goals for non-sales role such as Office Administrator

LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It would be easier to train somebody in the papertrail process if they actually had been physically through the full process.” - LuAnn

More About Jessica Harling:

Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level.

Connect with Jessica Harling:

Website 

LinkedIn

Facebook

Twitter

Behind the Design Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch is a valuable partner to you, the interior designer, as well as to us, window treatment professionals. More than 100 years of innovation in design and technology, creating beautiful as well as functional drapery hardware for any window application you can imagine. Curved rods, ripplefold rods, decorative rods, had draw rods, cord draw rods, motorized rods...when I say everything you need, I do mean everything. Go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

Janelle Photopoulos on episode 364

Joni Vanderslice on episode 101

 

 

]]> 4394 no 633: Joyce Downing Pickens: Building an Interior Design Business with Hard Work, Press & Pricing without Fear http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/633-joyce-downing-pickens-building-an-interior-design-business-with-hard-work-press-pricing-without-fear Today with Joyce Downing Pickens:  LA interior designer, Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors used to intern for Nathan Turner and now she’s running her own design business. Joyce shares how she got amazing press as a #babydesigner, what helped her not fear an empty pipeline, and what she’s rethinking as she graduates to her sixth year in business.   Pick it apart: [21:31] Joyce shares about the press needing content [22:03] Joyce shares advice from Nathan Turner about submitting projects to press [36:50] Joyce shares about how her rates have changed since she started her business [45:57] Joyce shares about her mindset surrounding her pipeline and plans for a shift in the next year [49:20] Joyce shares her ideas about the scalability of interior design and her interest in product design   LuAnn and Joyce Downing Pickens’s Ah-Ha moments: “The best learning experience is working for yourself. You have to juggle so many hats and you learn quicker than learning underneath someone.” - Joyce Downing Pickens     More About Joyce Downing Pickens: Joyce is a Los Angeles based interior designer and owner of JDP Interiors. After traveling throughout her childhood, Joyce's love of design was born. She strives to create beautiful, comfortable and textural spaces, while providing her clients with superior customer service and project management. She continually collects and curates to achieve the perfect blend between vintage and modern and consistently enjoys watching her visions come to life - there's nothing better than a good "before and after"!   Connect with Joyce Downing Pickens: Website Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet has sponsored our show from the very beginning and is a designer's go-to source for excellent fabrics, trims, and accessories. Get 10% off at Kravet.com when you use coupon code AWDB10. And our friends at Kravet Inc. are committed to ensuring a safe, sanitary, and secure experience for you, in all their showrooms and locations. Kravet promises to serve you from a distance by adhering to CDC guidelines and by taking extra precautions. Their warehouses are open and operational, so that means Kravet is ready to ship your orders quickly and efficiently! Visit www.kravet.com for more information and to book an in-person or virtual appointment with your sales rep. Tue, 19 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Joyce Downing Pickens: Building an Interior Design Business with Hard Work, Press & Pricing without Fear full 633 LuAnn Nigara Today with Joyce Downing Pickens:  LA interior designer, Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors used to intern for Nathan Turner and now she’s running her own design business. Joyce shares how she got amazing press as a #babydesigner, what... Today with Joyce Downing Pickens:  LA interior designer, Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors used to intern for Nathan Turner and now she’s running her own design business. Joyce shares how she got amazing press as a #babydesigner, what helped her not fear an empty pipeline, and what she’s rethinking as she graduates to her sixth year in business.   Pick it apart: [21:31] Joyce shares about the press needing content [22:03] Joyce shares advice from Nathan Turner about submitting projects to press [36:50] Joyce shares about how her rates have changed since she started her business [45:57] Joyce shares about her mindset surrounding her pipeline and plans for a shift in the next year [49:20] Joyce shares her ideas about the scalability of interior design and her interest in product design   LuAnn and Joyce Downing Pickens’s Ah-Ha moments: “The best learning experience is working for yourself. You have to juggle so many hats and you learn quicker than learning underneath someone.” - Joyce Downing Pickens     More About Joyce Downing Pickens: Joyce is a Los Angeles based interior designer and owner of JDP Interiors. After traveling throughout her childhood, Joyce's love of design was born. She strives to create beautiful, comfortable and textural spaces, while providing her clients with superior customer service and project management. She continually collects and curates to achieve the perfect blend between vintage and modern and consistently enjoys watching her visions come to life - there's nothing better than a good "before and after"!   Connect with Joyce Downing Pickens: Website Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet has sponsored our show from the very beginning and is a designer's go-to source for excellent fabrics, trims, and accessories. Get 10% off at Kravet.com when you use coupon code AWDB10. And our friends at Kravet Inc. are committed to ensuring a safe, sanitary, and secure experience for you, in all their showrooms and locations. Kravet promises to serve you from a distance by adhering to CDC guidelines and by taking extra precautions. Their warehouses are open and operational, so that means Kravet is ready to ship your orders quickly and efficiently! Visit www.kravet.com for more information and to book an in-person or virtual appointment with your sales rep. Today with Joyce Downing Pickens: 

LA interior designer, Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors used to intern for Nathan Turner and now she’s running her own design business. Joyce shares how she got amazing press as a #babydesigner, what helped her not fear an empty pipeline, and what she’s rethinking as she graduates to her sixth year in business.

 

Pick it apart:

[21:31] Joyce shares about the press needing content

[22:03] Joyce shares advice from Nathan Turner about submitting projects to press

[36:50] Joyce shares about how her rates have changed since she started her business

[45:57] Joyce shares about her mindset surrounding her pipeline and plans for a shift in the next year

[49:20] Joyce shares her ideas about the scalability of interior design and her interest in product design

 

LuAnn and Joyce Downing Pickens’s Ah-Ha moments:

“The best learning experience is working for yourself. You have to juggle so many hats and you learn quicker than learning underneath someone.” - Joyce Downing Pickens

 

 

More About Joyce Downing Pickens:

Joyce is a Los Angeles based interior designer and owner of JDP Interiors. After traveling throughout her childhood, Joyce's love of design was born. She strives to create beautiful, comfortable and textural spaces, while providing her clients with superior customer service and project management. She continually collects and curates to achieve the perfect blend between vintage and modern and consistently enjoys watching her visions come to life - there's nothing better than a good "before and after"!

 

Connect with Joyce Downing Pickens:

Website

Instagram  

Facebook  

Pinterest

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet has sponsored our show from the very beginning and is a designer's go-to source for excellent fabrics, trims, and accessories. Get 10% off at Kravet.com when you use coupon code AWDB10. And our friends at Kravet Inc. are committed to ensuring a safe, sanitary, and secure experience for you, in all their showrooms and locations. Kravet promises to serve you from a distance by adhering to CDC guidelines and by taking extra precautions. Their warehouses are open and operational, so that means Kravet is ready to ship your orders quickly and efficiently! Visit www.kravet.com for more information and to book an in-person or virtual appointment with your sales rep.

]]> 4159 no 632: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Taking The Fear Out of Flooring for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/632-power-talk-friday-john-dupra-taking-the-fear-out-of-flooring-for-interior-designers Today with John Dupra:  John Dupra, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Revel Woods returns to the show to walk us through how designers can offer a valuable service to their clients and increase their project profit by becoming a flooring expert. Revel Woods is known for catering to the design trade by offering substantial training, concierge level service and customizable flooring options that allow interior designers to confidently include flooring in their new-build and renovation projects.    Pick it apart: [41:26] John and LuAnn discuss how to work around the builder so you can spec the flooring [55:28] John reviews how the flooring selector on his website works [1:06:07] John explains how Revel Woods has disrupted the flooring industry’s retail model [1:08:13] LuAnn recaps the value Revel Woods bring to the designer [1:13:09] John explains the initial education and guidance needed to specify flooring [1:21:34] LuAnn recaps the main benefits Revel Woods offers to designers   LuAnn and John Dupra’s Ah-Ha moments: “Revel Woods is a hyper-personalized concierge service.” - John Dupra “For projects that designers have flooring in, the designer should be the conduit for that industry.” - John Dupra “This is an area where there’s money left on the table.” - John Dupra   More About John Dupra: John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY.  John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution. It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before. John has been featured in a number of publications, and has been a guest on a wide range of podcasts including being recognized in Hardwood Floors Magazine’s first ever 40 under 40: https://hardwoodfloorsmag.com/2017/10/02/hardwood-floors-magazine-introduces-first-ever-40-40/ His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it.   Connect with John Dupra: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest     Other Shows Mentioned:  Corey Damen Jenkins #549 #388 #127  Deborah DiMare #117 #82 Kristen Scott Thomas #314 Ashleigh Esprit #136 Fri, 15 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: John Dupra: Taking The Fear Out of Flooring for Interior Designers full 632 LuAnn Nigara Today with John Dupra:  John Dupra, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Revel Woods returns to the show to walk us through how designers can offer a valuable service to their clients and increase their project profit by becoming a flooring... Today with John Dupra:  John Dupra, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Revel Woods returns to the show to walk us through how designers can offer a valuable service to their clients and increase their project profit by becoming a flooring expert. Revel Woods is known for catering to the design trade by offering substantial training, concierge level service and customizable flooring options that allow interior designers to confidently include flooring in their new-build and renovation projects.    Pick it apart: [41:26] John and LuAnn discuss how to work around the builder so you can spec the flooring [55:28] John reviews how the flooring selector on his website works [1:06:07] John explains how Revel Woods has disrupted the flooring industry’s retail model [1:08:13] LuAnn recaps the value Revel Woods bring to the designer [1:13:09] John explains the initial education and guidance needed to specify flooring [1:21:34] LuAnn recaps the main benefits Revel Woods offers to designers   LuAnn and John Dupra’s Ah-Ha moments: “Revel Woods is a hyper-personalized concierge service.” - John Dupra “For projects that designers have flooring in, the designer should be the conduit for that industry.” - John Dupra “This is an area where there’s money left on the table.” - John Dupra   More About John Dupra: John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY.  John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution. It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before. John has been featured in a number of publications, and has been a guest on a wide range of podcasts including being recognized in Hardwood Floors Magazine’s first ever 40 under 40: https://hardwoodfloorsmag.com/2017/10/02/hardwood-floors-magazine-introduces-first-ever-40-40/ His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it.   Connect with John Dupra: Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest     Other Shows Mentioned:  Corey Damen Jenkins #549 #388 #127  Deborah DiMare #117 #82 Kristen Scott Thomas #314 Ashleigh Esprit #136 Today with John Dupra: 

John Dupra, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Revel Woods returns to the show to walk us through how designers can offer a valuable service to their clients and increase their project profit by becoming a flooring expert. Revel Woods is known for catering to the design trade by offering substantial training, concierge level service and customizable flooring options that allow interior designers to confidently include flooring in their new-build and renovation projects. 

 

Pick it apart:

[41:26] John and LuAnn discuss how to work around the builder so you can spec the flooring

[55:28] John reviews how the flooring selector on his website works

[1:06:07] John explains how Revel Woods has disrupted the flooring industry’s retail model

[1:08:13] LuAnn recaps the value Revel Woods bring to the designer

[1:13:09] John explains the initial education and guidance needed to specify flooring

[1:21:34] LuAnn recaps the main benefits Revel Woods offers to designers

 

LuAnn and John Dupra’s Ah-Ha moments:

“Revel Woods is a hyper-personalized concierge service.” - John Dupra

“For projects that designers have flooring in, the designer should be the conduit for that industry.” - John Dupra

“This is an area where there’s money left on the table.” - John Dupra

 

More About John Dupra:

John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY. 

John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution.

It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before.

John has been featured in a number of publications, and has been a guest on a wide range of podcasts including being recognized in Hardwood Floors Magazine’s first ever 40 under 40: https://hardwoodfloorsmag.com/2017/10/02/hardwood-floors-magazine-introduces-first-ever-40-40/

His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it.

 

Connect with John Dupra:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook  

Pinterest  

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

Corey Damen Jenkins #549 #388 #127 

Deborah DiMare #117 #82

Kristen Scott Thomas #314

Ashleigh Esprit #136

]]> 4099 no 631: Ariella Horowitz: Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/631-ariella-horowitz-success-for-design-build-firms-is-in-the-details Today with Ariella Horowitz Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for opportunities, and smart enough to iterate when something isn’t working. Ariella shares about how she got her start and what she did to differentiate herself and build success in the design/build world. Pick It Apart [13:44] Ariella shares about how builders tried to keep her from working with other builders [16:08] Ariella shares about her confidence and learning curve working with builders early in her career [23:30] Ariella shares how she built her team and created spec books [26:04] Ariella shares how and why she charges clients hourly [40:14] Ariella shares advice for designers interested in working with builders  [43:49] LuAnn has an “aha” moment about how Ariella’s personality and work ethic attracts clients with similar personalities LuAnn and Ariella Horowitz's “Ah-Ha” Moments “It’s not easy. To get here, you have to put in the hard work.” - Ariella Horowitz “You have to be willing to put in the time and work really hard.” - Ariella Horowitz More about Ariella Horowitz As founder and principal designer of AH Design Group, Ariella Horowitz oversees all the design that makes its way into our clients' beautiful homes. Over the years, Ariella has designed countless chic, sophisticated and innovative interiors and exteriors. Her meticulous and thoughtful approach ensures that she makes a statement in every space. Her eye for detail and dedication to perfection is evident in each room she touches, leaving her mark wherever she goes. Ariella takes her motto, "Design with Distinction" into play when designing each and every space.  Every home Ariella designs is unique and custom to itself. ​AH Design Group, located in Northern NJ, is a full-service interior and exterior design firm specializing in new constructions, full renovations and custom homes. Unlike many other design firms, we take a hands-on approach and check-in at our projects on a regular basis to ensure everything is being done correctly and to perfection. Because we don't subscribe to one specific design aesthetic, we are able to envision and conceptualize projects ranging across the full spectrum from modern to transitional to traditional. With extensive knowledge of the construction process, we get involved in the very early stages from the architectural planning to the framing process. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, developers, and industry professionals to deliver a vision that is on time and within budget, while simultaneously meeting our clients' lifestyle needs and design aesthetic. Connect with Ariella Horowitz Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is here to help if you want to learn the process for designing kitchens. Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar, on January 20th, 2020 will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021.  Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Other Shows Mentioned Christina Bruce #486 Natasa Jones #570 Judith Neary and Corey Classen #449 Brad Leavitt #542, #560, #580, and #615 Tue, 12 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Ariella Horowitz: Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details. full 631 LuAnn Nigara Today with Ariella Horowitz Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for... Today with Ariella Horowitz Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for opportunities, and smart enough to iterate when something isn’t working. Ariella shares about how she got her start and what she did to differentiate herself and build success in the design/build world. Pick It Apart [13:44] Ariella shares about how builders tried to keep her from working with other builders [16:08] Ariella shares about her confidence and learning curve working with builders early in her career [23:30] Ariella shares how she built her team and created spec books [26:04] Ariella shares how and why she charges clients hourly [40:14] Ariella shares advice for designers interested in working with builders  [43:49] LuAnn has an “aha” moment about how Ariella’s personality and work ethic attracts clients with similar personalities LuAnn and Ariella Horowitz's “Ah-Ha” Moments “It’s not easy. To get here, you have to put in the hard work.” - Ariella Horowitz “You have to be willing to put in the time and work really hard.” - Ariella Horowitz More about Ariella Horowitz As founder and principal designer of AH Design Group, Ariella Horowitz oversees all the design that makes its way into our clients' beautiful homes. Over the years, Ariella has designed countless chic, sophisticated and innovative interiors and exteriors. Her meticulous and thoughtful approach ensures that she makes a statement in every space. Her eye for detail and dedication to perfection is evident in each room she touches, leaving her mark wherever she goes. Ariella takes her motto, "Design with Distinction" into play when designing each and every space.  Every home Ariella designs is unique and custom to itself. ​AH Design Group, located in Northern NJ, is a full-service interior and exterior design firm specializing in new constructions, full renovations and custom homes. Unlike many other design firms, we take a hands-on approach and check-in at our projects on a regular basis to ensure everything is being done correctly and to perfection. Because we don't subscribe to one specific design aesthetic, we are able to envision and conceptualize projects ranging across the full spectrum from modern to transitional to traditional. With extensive knowledge of the construction process, we get involved in the very early stages from the architectural planning to the framing process. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, developers, and industry professionals to deliver a vision that is on time and within budget, while simultaneously meeting our clients' lifestyle needs and design aesthetic. Connect with Ariella Horowitz Website  Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is here to help if you want to learn the process for designing kitchens. Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar, on January 20th, 2020 will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021.  Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Other Shows Mentioned Christina Bruce #486 Natasa Jones #570 Judith Neary and Corey Classen #449 Brad Leavitt #542, #560, #580, and #615 Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for opportunities, and smart enough to iterate when something isn’t working. Ariella shares about how she got her start and what she did to differentiate herself and build success in the design/build world.

Pick It Apart

[13:44] Ariella shares about how builders tried to keep her from working with other builders

[16:08] Ariella shares about her confidence and learning curve working with builders early in her career

[23:30] Ariella shares how she built her team and created spec books

[26:04] Ariella shares how and why she charges clients hourly

[40:14] Ariella shares advice for designers interested in working with builders 

[43:49] LuAnn has an “aha” moment about how Ariella’s personality and work ethic attracts clients with similar personalities

LuAnn and Ariella Horowitz's “Ah-Ha” Moments

“It’s not easy. To get here, you have to put in the hard work.” - Ariella Horowitz

“You have to be willing to put in the time and work really hard.” - Ariella Horowitz

More about Ariella Horowitz

As founder and principal designer of AH Design Group, Ariella Horowitz oversees all the design that makes its way into our clients' beautiful homes. Over the years, Ariella has designed countless chic, sophisticated and innovative interiors and exteriors. Her meticulous and thoughtful approach ensures that she makes a statement in every space. Her eye for detail and dedication to perfection is evident in each room she touches, leaving her mark wherever she goes. Ariella takes her motto, "Design with Distinction" into play when designing each and every space.  Every home Ariella designs is unique and custom to itself.

​AH Design Group, located in Northern NJ, is a full-service interior and exterior design firm specializing in new constructions, full renovations and custom homes. Unlike many other design firms, we take a hands-on approach and check-in at our projects on a regular basis to ensure everything is being done correctly and to perfection. Because we don't subscribe to one specific design aesthetic, we are able to envision and conceptualize projects ranging across the full spectrum from modern to transitional to traditional. With extensive knowledge of the construction process, we get involved in the very early stages from the architectural planning to the framing process. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, developers, and industry professionals to deliver a vision that is on time and within budget, while simultaneously meeting our clients' lifestyle needs and design aesthetic.

Connect with Ariella Horowitz

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is here to help if you want to learn the process for designing kitchens. Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar, on January 20th, 2020 will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021.  Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.

Other Shows Mentioned

Christina Bruce #486

Natasa Jones #570

Judith Neary and Corey Classen #449

Brad Leavitt #542, #560, #580, and #615

]]> 3731 no 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/630-power-talk-friday-jessica-delaney-networking-and-press-for-photographers-and-interior-designers Today with Jessica Delaney Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and story and an opportunity to see and be seen. Jessica shares how she got started in her business by reaching out to bloggers, designers, and press professionals she met during networking events and everywhere else possible. Pick It Apart [19:06] Jessica talks about networking as a photographer [25:36] Jessica remind us of the value of local press [32:45] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the purpose of Jessica’s digital platform [43:44] Jessica reminds us about photography usage rights and compensation LuAnn and Jessica Delaney's "Ah-Ha" Moments “Never be embarrassed of where you have to start - just start somewhere.” - Jessica Delaney “You never know where your next business partner will come from.” - Jessica Delaney “Things snowball - you never really know where it’s going to lead.” - Jessica Delaney More about Jessica Delaney I’m an interiors and architectural photographer, and one-third of BijOU Magazine.  I’m the lady behind the lens most days since I don’t love having my own photo was taken (ironic, I know!). Lover of music (give me Mumford, JayZ, show tunes, Elvis, and all in between), cooking, podcasts + yoga.   I’ve specialized in interiors + design photography since my first paying client booked me Jan 20, 2013, and has been a dear friend and loyal client since. I’ve photographed the spaces of award-winning designers and believe each space has a personality and story to tell of a life well-lived.  My work has been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, New England Home, Domino, Cottages and Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Design New England, Decor Maine, South Shore Home, Life + Style, The Boston Globe,  and Canada’s The Globe and Mail. In September of 2018, we launched BijOU Magazine, and since then have been delivering “Small Stories of Big Design”.  We strive to be the digital publication for inspired interiors and lifestyle stories, delivered with wit, substance + style. When not behind the camera, in front of the computer (or stove) I can be found galavanting in Milton, MA with my three daughters, one husband, and one new pandemic puppy. Connect with Jessica Delaney Website  Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods is a great company and a great source for hardwood and resilient flooring. And they also simplify the selection process with their online tool that is basically your digital advisor in flooring selection. Take a listen to episodes 329 and 452 to see why I’m so excited about his company. Set up your trade account by going to revelwoods.com/pro-account. Other Shows Mentioned Charlotte Safavi episode 138 Sarah Winchester episode 444 David Livingston episode 51 Stephen Karlisch episode 369 Racquel Langworthy episode 343 Mike Van Tassel episode 563   Fri, 08 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers full 630 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jessica Delaney Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and... Today with Jessica Delaney Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and story and an opportunity to see and be seen. Jessica shares how she got started in her business by reaching out to bloggers, designers, and press professionals she met during networking events and everywhere else possible. Pick It Apart [19:06] Jessica talks about networking as a photographer [25:36] Jessica remind us of the value of local press [32:45] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the purpose of Jessica’s digital platform [43:44] Jessica reminds us about photography usage rights and compensation LuAnn and Jessica Delaney's "Ah-Ha" Moments “Never be embarrassed of where you have to start - just start somewhere.” - Jessica Delaney “You never know where your next business partner will come from.” - Jessica Delaney “Things snowball - you never really know where it’s going to lead.” - Jessica Delaney More about Jessica Delaney I’m an interiors and architectural photographer, and one-third of BijOU Magazine.  I’m the lady behind the lens most days since I don’t love having my own photo was taken (ironic, I know!). Lover of music (give me Mumford, JayZ, show tunes, Elvis, and all in between), cooking, podcasts + yoga.   I’ve specialized in interiors + design photography since my first paying client booked me Jan 20, 2013, and has been a dear friend and loyal client since. I’ve photographed the spaces of award-winning designers and believe each space has a personality and story to tell of a life well-lived.  My work has been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, New England Home, Domino, Cottages and Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Design New England, Decor Maine, South Shore Home, Life + Style, The Boston Globe,  and Canada’s The Globe and Mail. In September of 2018, we launched BijOU Magazine, and since then have been delivering “Small Stories of Big Design”.  We strive to be the digital publication for inspired interiors and lifestyle stories, delivered with wit, substance + style. When not behind the camera, in front of the computer (or stove) I can be found galavanting in Milton, MA with my three daughters, one husband, and one new pandemic puppy. Connect with Jessica Delaney Website  Instagram  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods is a great company and a great source for hardwood and resilient flooring. And they also simplify the selection process with their online tool that is basically your digital advisor in flooring selection. Take a listen to episodes 329 and 452 to see why I’m so excited about his company. Set up your trade account by going to revelwoods.com/pro-account. Other Shows Mentioned Charlotte Safavi episode 138 Sarah Winchester episode 444 David Livingston episode 51 Stephen Karlisch episode 369 Racquel Langworthy episode 343 Mike Van Tassel episode 563   Today with Jessica Delaney

Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and story and an opportunity to see and be seen. Jessica shares how she got started in her business by reaching out to bloggers, designers, and press professionals she met during networking events and everywhere else possible.

Pick It Apart

[19:06] Jessica talks about networking as a photographer

[25:36] Jessica remind us of the value of local press

[32:45] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the purpose of Jessica’s digital platform

[43:44] Jessica reminds us about photography usage rights and compensation

LuAnn and Jessica Delaney's "Ah-Ha" Moments

“Never be embarrassed of where you have to start - just start somewhere.” - Jessica Delaney

“You never know where your next business partner will come from.” - Jessica Delaney

“Things snowball - you never really know where it’s going to lead.” - Jessica Delaney

More about Jessica Delaney

I’m an interiors and architectural photographer, and one-third of BijOU Magazine.  I’m the lady behind the lens most days since I don’t love having my own photo was taken (ironic, I know!). Lover of music (give me Mumford, JayZ, show tunes, Elvis, and all in between), cooking, podcasts + yoga.  

I’ve specialized in interiors + design photography since my first paying client booked me Jan 20, 2013, and has been a dear friend and loyal client since. I’ve photographed the spaces of award-winning designers and believe each space has a personality and story to tell of a life well-lived.  My work has been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, New England Home, Domino, Cottages and Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Design New England, Decor Maine, South Shore Home, Life + Style, The Boston Globe,  and Canada’s The Globe and Mail.

In September of 2018, we launched BijOU Magazine, and since then have been delivering “Small Stories of Big Design”.  We strive to be the digital publication for inspired interiors and lifestyle stories, delivered with wit, substance + style.

When not behind the camera, in front of the computer (or stove) I can be found galavanting in Milton, MA with my three daughters, one husband, and one new pandemic puppy.

Connect with Jessica Delaney

Website 

Instagram 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods is a great company and a great source for hardwood and resilient flooring. And they also simplify the selection process with their online tool that is basically your digital advisor in flooring selection. Take a listen to episodes 329 and 452 to see why I’m so excited about his company. Set up your trade account by going to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

Other Shows Mentioned
  • Charlotte Safavi episode 138
  • Sarah Winchester episode 444
  • David Livingston episode 51
  • Stephen Karlisch episode 369
  • Racquel Langworthy episode 343
  • Mike Van Tassel episode 563

 

]]> 3949 no 629: Sarah Von Dreele: When you turn a creative outlet into a career. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/629-sarah-von-dreele-response-and-relationships-in-an-interior-design-business Today with Sarah Von Dreele Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing wallcoverings, fabrics, and textiles. She relied on her branding background, her relationships, and her own talents as she launched her line. She’s sharing the lessons she learned along the way and how her business is shifting for the future.  Pick it apart [16:05] Sarah shares how staying “in the moment” opened the door for her to build toward something big. [19:09] LuAnn and Sarah discuss the importance of outsourcing and how difficult it can be to make the decision to let go. [20:11] Sarah explains how her background in corporate and consumer branding gave her a valuable skillset in her business. [23:00] LuAnn and Sarah dive into the importance of building relationships, both in your personal and professional life. [35:38] Sarah shares some insights on how she manages to maintain her creativity even while she operates in business mode.  LuAnn and Sarah’s “Ah-Ha” Moments “When your life blows up, everything is out of control, and you actually have to live with that and adjust to that. That life experience, in addition, to the professional experiences I had really helped me navigate starting a new business in a completely different way.” -Sarah “That is one of the toughest decisions we face as business owners—that hurdle of when to hire. We all know intellectually that when you hire your business will grow and the revenue will grow, because you’ve taken yourself away from activities that are not your highest money-generating activities. But internally, you go ‘That’s a lot of dollar bills though!’” -LuAnn “When you package it and you talk about your brand story, and you figure out where your niche is, and your marketplace is—that’s how you breakthrough in the sea of all the other wallpaper companies. And for you to have had that skillset yourself, I’m sure was a nice leg up.” -LuAnn “When I am painting, the work is so iterative, and one leads to the next, but then it starts to shift. When I can recognize that it shifts in a negative way and things start to look muddy and with no direction, it’s over. You got the best of it.” -Sarah   More About Sarah Von Dreele Sarah Von Dreele has spent much of her professional life as a branding consultant, employing her strong visual communication methods to facilitate large and small-scale branding campaigns for over the last twenty years. What began as a simple creative exercise at the end of the day quickly evolved into a collection of surface designs, painted exclusively in gouache. Her latest works explore repetition of abstracted floral and geometric forms, which are ethereal and calm,  and lend themselves to a variety of applications for the curated home. Sarah Von Dreele's line of bespoke wallcoverings and textiles are available to the trade through Hewn Showroom in San Francisco, Lepere in New York City, and Twill and Texture in Miami. Sarah received a BFA in Graphic Design from Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Between developing new products, painting what she sees, and keeping up with her fourth-grader, she patiently pursues her interest in learning the French language. Connect with Sarah Von Dreele Website  Instagram   LinkedIn Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is always at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They have been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. Kirsch is dedicated to providing great resources to educate the design community about their product. Go to kirsch.com to find out more. Mydoma Studio: Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021. Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get kitchen project confidence at 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready! Other Shows Mentioned:  #77 Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #39 Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm Tue, 05 Jan 2021 08:16:42 -0000 Sarah Von Dreele: When you turn a creative outlet into a career. full 629 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sarah Von Dreele Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing... Today with Sarah Von Dreele Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing wallcoverings, fabrics, and textiles. She relied on her branding background, her relationships, and her own talents as she launched her line. She’s sharing the lessons she learned along the way and how her business is shifting for the future.  Pick it apart [16:05] Sarah shares how staying “in the moment” opened the door for her to build toward something big. [19:09] LuAnn and Sarah discuss the importance of outsourcing and how difficult it can be to make the decision to let go. [20:11] Sarah explains how her background in corporate and consumer branding gave her a valuable skillset in her business. [23:00] LuAnn and Sarah dive into the importance of building relationships, both in your personal and professional life. [35:38] Sarah shares some insights on how she manages to maintain her creativity even while she operates in business mode.  LuAnn and Sarah’s “Ah-Ha” Moments “When your life blows up, everything is out of control, and you actually have to live with that and adjust to that. That life experience, in addition, to the professional experiences I had really helped me navigate starting a new business in a completely different way.” -Sarah “That is one of the toughest decisions we face as business owners—that hurdle of when to hire. We all know intellectually that when you hire your business will grow and the revenue will grow, because you’ve taken yourself away from activities that are not your highest money-generating activities. But internally, you go ‘That’s a lot of dollar bills though!’” -LuAnn “When you package it and you talk about your brand story, and you figure out where your niche is, and your marketplace is—that’s how you breakthrough in the sea of all the other wallpaper companies. And for you to have had that skillset yourself, I’m sure was a nice leg up.” -LuAnn “When I am painting, the work is so iterative, and one leads to the next, but then it starts to shift. When I can recognize that it shifts in a negative way and things start to look muddy and with no direction, it’s over. You got the best of it.” -Sarah   More About Sarah Von Dreele Sarah Von Dreele has spent much of her professional life as a branding consultant, employing her strong visual communication methods to facilitate large and small-scale branding campaigns for over the last twenty years. What began as a simple creative exercise at the end of the day quickly evolved into a collection of surface designs, painted exclusively in gouache. Her latest works explore repetition of abstracted floral and geometric forms, which are ethereal and calm,  and lend themselves to a variety of applications for the curated home. Sarah Von Dreele's line of bespoke wallcoverings and textiles are available to the trade through Hewn Showroom in San Francisco, Lepere in New York City, and Twill and Texture in Miami. Sarah received a BFA in Graphic Design from Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Between developing new products, painting what she sees, and keeping up with her fourth-grader, she patiently pursues her interest in learning the French language. Connect with Sarah Von Dreele Website  Instagram   LinkedIn Pinterest  What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch is always at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They have been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. Kirsch is dedicated to providing great resources to educate the design community about their product. Go to kirsch.com to find out more. Mydoma Studio: Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021. Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get kitchen project confidence at 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready! Other Shows Mentioned:  #77 Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business #125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #39 Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm Today with Sarah Von Dreele

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing wallcoverings, fabrics, and textiles. She relied on her branding background, her relationships, and her own talents as she launched her line. She’s sharing the lessons she learned along the way and how her business is shifting for the future. 

Pick it apart

  • [16:05] Sarah shares how staying “in the moment” opened the door for her to build toward something big.
  • [19:09] LuAnn and Sarah discuss the importance of outsourcing and how difficult it can be to make the decision to let go.
  • [20:11] Sarah explains how her background in corporate and consumer branding gave her a valuable skillset in her business.
  • [23:00] LuAnn and Sarah dive into the importance of building relationships, both in your personal and professional life.
  • [35:38] Sarah shares some insights on how she manages to maintain her creativity even while she operates in business mode. 

LuAnn and Sarah’s “Ah-Ha” Moments

“When your life blows up, everything is out of control, and you actually have to live with that and adjust to that. That life experience, in addition, to the professional experiences I had really helped me navigate starting a new business in a completely different way.” -Sarah

“That is one of the toughest decisions we face as business owners—that hurdle of when to hire. We all know intellectually that when you hire your business will grow and the revenue will grow, because you’ve taken yourself away from activities that are not your highest money-generating activities. But internally, you go ‘That’s a lot of dollar bills though!’” -LuAnn

“When you package it and you talk about your brand story, and you figure out where your niche is, and your marketplace is—that’s how you breakthrough in the sea of all the other wallpaper companies. And for you to have had that skillset yourself, I’m sure was a nice leg up.” -LuAnn

“When I am painting, the work is so iterative, and one leads to the next, but then it starts to shift. When I can recognize that it shifts in a negative way and things start to look muddy and with no direction, it’s over. You got the best of it.” -Sarah

 

More About Sarah Von Dreele

Sarah Von Dreele has spent much of her professional life as a branding consultant, employing her strong visual communication methods to facilitate large and small-scale branding campaigns for over the last twenty years. What began as a simple creative exercise at the end of the day quickly evolved into a collection of surface designs, painted exclusively in gouache. Her latest works explore repetition of abstracted floral and geometric forms, which are ethereal and calm,  and lend themselves to a variety of applications for the curated home. Sarah Von Dreele's line of bespoke wallcoverings and textiles are available to the trade through Hewn Showroom in San Francisco, Lepere in New York City, and Twill and Texture in Miami. Sarah received a BFA in Graphic Design from Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Between developing new products, painting what she sees, and keeping up with her fourth-grader, she patiently pursues her interest in learning the French language.

Connect with Sarah Von Dreele

Website 

Instagram  

LinkedIn

Pinterest 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch is always at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They have been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. Kirsch is dedicated to providing great resources to educate the design community about their product. Go to kirsch.com to find out more.

Mydoma Studio: Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021. Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get kitchen project confidence at 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready!

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#77 Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business

#125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#39 Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm

]]> 3438 no 628: Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/628-power-talk-friday-ginna-christensen-the-importance-of-values-in-your-interior-design-business Today with Ginna Christensen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But that work starts with discovering their values. Today, Ginna shares with me why discovering and staying true to your values is integral to your business, and what you can do to identify those values and incorporate them into what you do.    Pick it apart [16:00] Ginna shares the process she uses to help clients uncover their values [21:39] Ginna discusses why holding onto values that aren’t our own holds us back, and why “should” is a word to avoid [31:58] LuAnn and Ginna discuss how identifying your values becomes your roadmap for what you want to experience in your business [40:09] Ginna and LuAnn talk about why turning people off of your business isn’t always a bad thing [42:58] Ginna shares how your values help your business stand out (even if you hate the idea of self-promotion) [47:58] Ginna discusses how fears hold us back from making decisions [56:48] LuAnn shares a personal story highlighting the importance of opening up and sharing our struggles   LuAnn and Ginna Christensen's “Ah-Ha” Moments “You don’t have to be like someone else in order to be successful. You can be who you are. And not only can you be who you are, but it’s vital to your success.” -Ginna   “The reason we go into what their values are is because your values help you make the right decisions.” -Ginna   “When it’s a hard decision in your business, it’s ‘Well, does this align with what I said my mission and my values were?’ And if it doesn’t, then no matter how shiny, how pretty, how attractive, how lucrative it might be, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just a no.” -LuAnn   “The best salesperson in the world is uncovering the win for the other person. That’s the sale. It’s figuring out what the other person really needs and wants and providing it for them.” -LuAnn   “When our values are being honored, things are going well for us. When things are not going well, that’s an indicator that our values are not being honored.” -Ginna More About Ginna Christensen Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ginna Christensen, the daughter of two entrepreneurs, grew up knowing that innovation and the arts would play a central role in her professional and personal life.  Ginna started her career in the fashion industry, working in merchandising and marketing for Giorgio Armani, Ellen Tracy, and Emanuel Ungaro. Her attention moved to art and interiors in early 2000 when she joined the team at T.I. Industries, a company that manufactured wood moulding for the picture frame and furniture industries. Starting as the company's North East Regional Business Development Manager, Ginna quickly grew into a more creative role designing product, as well as the company’s trade show displays.  Ginna’s career shifted once again when she moved to Los Angeles in 2004 and got her start in the rug business with Aga John. As the VP of Sales and Product Development, she helped reinvigorate the high-end rug company, forging deals with companies like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home.  In September of 2013, Christensen joined the Los Angeles-based team at Woven as Creative Director. In her three-plus years with the company, she implemented programming, produced events, and created business development strategies which resulted in increased sales revenues, regional and national press coverage, and the launch of Woven at Design Within Reach.  Recognized for her cool and creative solutions to the challenges that modern businesses face, as well as for her willingness to give back to the design community, Christensen was asked to join the West Hollywood Design District Board in 2016 and was quickly appointed chair. In her  two plus years as chairwoman, she helped rebuild the board, lead the board through a complete rebrand, and restructured programming to insure that all members benefitted.  As a result of her work with the Design District and the experience she gained in working with a variety of brands and businesses, Christensen launched her own business in 2017. GC Collaborative launched as a boutique consulting firm and has transitioned into business coaching specializing in helping creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace, build a foundation for their brand, and create a roadmap to transform them into STANDOUTS in their field.  While Ginna now calls NYC home, the creative works with clients all over the country. Connect with Ginna Christensen Website  Instagram   LinkedIn   Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is here for you during these challenging times. They’ve been around for 102 years and want you to know you can trust them to securely process your orders and keep your deposits safe. Take advantage of Kravet Inc’s extensive digital tools and set up a virtual appointment with your local sales representative by logging in to kravet.com.   Article is the best way to buy beautiful modern furniture, and their trade program offers discounts and specialized support. Their team of industry professionals is dedicated to helping you get your projects done, from sourcing and design to invoicing and delivery. Go to article.com to get started today.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #552 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I’m Good, Right? #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry #594 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles #516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #613 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions Fri, 01 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business full 628 LuAnn Nigara Today with Ginna Christensen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But... Today with Ginna Christensen Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But that work starts with discovering their values. Today, Ginna shares with me why discovering and staying true to your values is integral to your business, and what you can do to identify those values and incorporate them into what you do.    Pick it apart [16:00] Ginna shares the process she uses to help clients uncover their values [21:39] Ginna discusses why holding onto values that aren’t our own holds us back, and why “should” is a word to avoid [31:58] LuAnn and Ginna discuss how identifying your values becomes your roadmap for what you want to experience in your business [40:09] Ginna and LuAnn talk about why turning people off of your business isn’t always a bad thing [42:58] Ginna shares how your values help your business stand out (even if you hate the idea of self-promotion) [47:58] Ginna discusses how fears hold us back from making decisions [56:48] LuAnn shares a personal story highlighting the importance of opening up and sharing our struggles   LuAnn and Ginna Christensen's “Ah-Ha” Moments “You don’t have to be like someone else in order to be successful. You can be who you are. And not only can you be who you are, but it’s vital to your success.” -Ginna   “The reason we go into what their values are is because your values help you make the right decisions.” -Ginna   “When it’s a hard decision in your business, it’s ‘Well, does this align with what I said my mission and my values were?’ And if it doesn’t, then no matter how shiny, how pretty, how attractive, how lucrative it might be, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just a no.” -LuAnn   “The best salesperson in the world is uncovering the win for the other person. That’s the sale. It’s figuring out what the other person really needs and wants and providing it for them.” -LuAnn   “When our values are being honored, things are going well for us. When things are not going well, that’s an indicator that our values are not being honored.” -Ginna More About Ginna Christensen Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ginna Christensen, the daughter of two entrepreneurs, grew up knowing that innovation and the arts would play a central role in her professional and personal life.  Ginna started her career in the fashion industry, working in merchandising and marketing for Giorgio Armani, Ellen Tracy, and Emanuel Ungaro. Her attention moved to art and interiors in early 2000 when she joined the team at T.I. Industries, a company that manufactured wood moulding for the picture frame and furniture industries. Starting as the company's North East Regional Business Development Manager, Ginna quickly grew into a more creative role designing product, as well as the company’s trade show displays.  Ginna’s career shifted once again when she moved to Los Angeles in 2004 and got her start in the rug business with Aga John. As the VP of Sales and Product Development, she helped reinvigorate the high-end rug company, forging deals with companies like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home.  In September of 2013, Christensen joined the Los Angeles-based team at Woven as Creative Director. In her three-plus years with the company, she implemented programming, produced events, and created business development strategies which resulted in increased sales revenues, regional and national press coverage, and the launch of Woven at Design Within Reach.  Recognized for her cool and creative solutions to the challenges that modern businesses face, as well as for her willingness to give back to the design community, Christensen was asked to join the West Hollywood Design District Board in 2016 and was quickly appointed chair. In her  two plus years as chairwoman, she helped rebuild the board, lead the board through a complete rebrand, and restructured programming to insure that all members benefitted.  As a result of her work with the Design District and the experience she gained in working with a variety of brands and businesses, Christensen launched her own business in 2017. GC Collaborative launched as a boutique consulting firm and has transitioned into business coaching specializing in helping creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace, build a foundation for their brand, and create a roadmap to transform them into STANDOUTS in their field.  While Ginna now calls NYC home, the creative works with clients all over the country. Connect with Ginna Christensen Website  Instagram   LinkedIn   Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is here for you during these challenging times. They’ve been around for 102 years and want you to know you can trust them to securely process your orders and keep your deposits safe. Take advantage of Kravet Inc’s extensive digital tools and set up a virtual appointment with your local sales representative by logging in to kravet.com.   Article is the best way to buy beautiful modern furniture, and their trade program offers discounts and specialized support. Their team of industry professionals is dedicated to helping you get your projects done, from sourcing and design to invoicing and delivery. Go to article.com to get started today.    Other Shows Mentioned:  #552 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I’m Good, Right? #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry #594 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles #516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand #613 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions Today with Ginna Christensen

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But that work starts with discovering their values. Today, Ginna shares with me why discovering and staying true to your values is integral to your business, and what you can do to identify those values and incorporate them into what you do. 

 

Pick it apart

  • [16:00] Ginna shares the process she uses to help clients uncover their values
  • [21:39] Ginna discusses why holding onto values that aren’t our own holds us back, and why “should” is a word to avoid
  • [31:58] LuAnn and Ginna discuss how identifying your values becomes your roadmap for what you want to experience in your business
  • [40:09] Ginna and LuAnn talk about why turning people off of your business isn’t always a bad thing
  • [42:58] Ginna shares how your values help your business stand out (even if you hate the idea of self-promotion)
  • [47:58] Ginna discusses how fears hold us back from making decisions
  • [56:48] LuAnn shares a personal story highlighting the importance of opening up and sharing our struggles

 

LuAnn and Ginna Christensen's “Ah-Ha” Moments

“You don’t have to be like someone else in order to be successful. You can be who you are. And not only can you be who you are, but it’s vital to your success.” -Ginna

 

“The reason we go into what their values are is because your values help you make the right decisions.” -Ginna

 

“When it’s a hard decision in your business, it’s ‘Well, does this align with what I said my mission and my values were?’ And if it doesn’t, then no matter how shiny, how pretty, how attractive, how lucrative it might be, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just a no.” -LuAnn

 

“The best salesperson in the world is uncovering the win for the other person. That’s the sale. It’s figuring out what the other person really needs and wants and providing it for them.” -LuAnn

 

“When our values are being honored, things are going well for us. When things are not going well, that’s an indicator that our values are not being honored.” -Ginna

More About Ginna Christensen

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ginna Christensen, the daughter of two entrepreneurs, grew up knowing that innovation and the arts would play a central role in her professional and personal life. 

Ginna started her career in the fashion industry, working in merchandising and marketing for Giorgio Armani, Ellen Tracy, and Emanuel Ungaro. Her attention moved to art and interiors in early 2000 when she joined the team at T.I. Industries, a company that manufactured wood moulding for the picture frame and furniture industries. Starting as the company's North East Regional Business Development Manager, Ginna quickly grew into a more creative role designing product, as well as the company’s trade show displays. 

Ginna’s career shifted once again when she moved to Los Angeles in 2004 and got her start in the rug business with Aga John. As the VP of Sales and Product Development, she helped reinvigorate the high-end rug company, forging deals with companies like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home. 

In September of 2013, Christensen joined the Los Angeles-based team at Woven as Creative Director. In her three-plus years with the company, she implemented programming, produced events, and created business development strategies which resulted in increased sales revenues, regional and national press coverage, and the launch of Woven at Design Within Reach. 

Recognized for her cool and creative solutions to the challenges that modern businesses face, as well as for her willingness to give back to the design community, Christensen was asked to join the West Hollywood Design District Board in 2016 and was quickly appointed chair. In her 

two plus years as chairwoman, she helped rebuild the board, lead the board through a complete rebrand, and restructured programming to insure that all members benefitted. 

As a result of her work with the Design District and the experience she gained in working with a variety of brands and businesses, Christensen launched her own business in 2017. GC Collaborative launched as a boutique consulting firm and has transitioned into business coaching specializing in helping creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace, build a foundation for their brand, and create a roadmap to transform them into STANDOUTS in their field. 

While Ginna now calls NYC home, the creative works with clients all over the country.

Connect with Ginna Christensen

Website 

Instagram  

LinkedIn  

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is here for you during these challenging times. They’ve been around for 102 years and want you to know you can trust them to securely process your orders and keep your deposits safe. Take advantage of Kravet Inc’s extensive digital tools and set up a virtual appointment with your local sales representative by logging in to kravet.com.

 

Article is the best way to buy beautiful modern furniture, and their trade program offers discounts and specialized support. Their team of industry professionals is dedicated to helping you get your projects done, from sourcing and design to invoicing and delivery. Go to article.com to get started today. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#552 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I’m Good, Right?

#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry

#594 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles

#516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

#613 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions

]]> 4306 no 627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/627-julia-miller-the-evolution-of-an-interior-design-business Today with Julia Miller:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more questions. On today’s episode, I chat with Julia Miller of j. millers interiors, as she shares how she tackled those questions and made the decisions that let her business evolve and thrive. Pick it apart: [12:30] Julia discusses her exit plan that laid the groundwork for her to leave her previous career and launch her design firm. [20:44] LuAnn and Julia discuss the tricky question of determining your rates when you don’t have any experience. [27:08] Julia shares insights onto how she manages to stay booked out almost six months in advance and communicate that timeframe to her clients.  [43:51] Julia dives into how she uses Pinterest boards to keep her clients busy while they wait for their projects to start. [50:39] LuAnn and Julia dig into Julia’s method for using finances to determine her project workload.  LuAnn and Julia Miller’s Ah-Ha moments: “I never let myself believe that I could ever make a career change until I had the personal experience and the validation from people that I didn’t know on Instagram.” -Julia “So often, any business that we do, or any career, whether it’s interior design or whatever it is, we can fall into the trap of not placing enough value on what we’re going to charge because we’re new at it.” -LuAnn “It was definitely a process of trying to figure out how many projects I needed at what rate and how many hours to make my ends meet financially. Part of that is knowing your worth and being able to charge for that, but also knowing how many hours it realistically takes you to do a project.” -Julia “I think there’s a lot of scarcity mindset in this business, and I think for people who don’t have a business mindset, there’s a lot of fear.” -Julia “When you say to me ‘I’ve never had somebody say I won’t pay you ahead of time,’ the only reason is because they haven’t been left with any questions. There’s absolutely no uncertainty in their minds what happens if they give you this money now. You’ve answered all the questions, and that comes from having that enunciated process, and having the confidence to express that process.” -LuAnn More About Julia Miller: j. miller interiors is a Minneapolis based residential interior design studio committed to creating carefully curated spaces with the highest level of craftsmanship. j. miller interiors focuses on developing homes that are reflections of the clients who live in them through expertly selected fixtures, finishes and furnishings. Through our collaborative, transparent process, we work with clients to create a home they love. j miller interiors serves clients locally in the Twin Cities and across the country through our signature distance design service.  Connect with Julia Miller: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit. Their workflow software keeps your design projects organized from beginning to end. They also offer a thriving design community so you’re never on your own. You can get started with Mydoma at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. At Monogram, it’s all about the details that come together to create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed for you. Their trade professionals program helps educate you on the details and nuances that you need to understand so you can bring the best to your clients and share those details effectively. Become a trade partner today at monogram.com/luann.  Other Shows Mentioned:  #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching #601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #522 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained #464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA #547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills #454 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal – Lawyers That Speak Designer #149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee #566 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss #412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience   Tue, 29 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business full 627 LuAnn Nigara Today with Julia Miller:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more... Today with Julia Miller:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more questions. On today’s episode, I chat with Julia Miller of j. millers interiors, as she shares how she tackled those questions and made the decisions that let her business evolve and thrive. Pick it apart: [12:30] Julia discusses her exit plan that laid the groundwork for her to leave her previous career and launch her design firm. [20:44] LuAnn and Julia discuss the tricky question of determining your rates when you don’t have any experience. [27:08] Julia shares insights onto how she manages to stay booked out almost six months in advance and communicate that timeframe to her clients.  [43:51] Julia dives into how she uses Pinterest boards to keep her clients busy while they wait for their projects to start. [50:39] LuAnn and Julia dig into Julia’s method for using finances to determine her project workload.  LuAnn and Julia Miller’s Ah-Ha moments: “I never let myself believe that I could ever make a career change until I had the personal experience and the validation from people that I didn’t know on Instagram.” -Julia “So often, any business that we do, or any career, whether it’s interior design or whatever it is, we can fall into the trap of not placing enough value on what we’re going to charge because we’re new at it.” -LuAnn “It was definitely a process of trying to figure out how many projects I needed at what rate and how many hours to make my ends meet financially. Part of that is knowing your worth and being able to charge for that, but also knowing how many hours it realistically takes you to do a project.” -Julia “I think there’s a lot of scarcity mindset in this business, and I think for people who don’t have a business mindset, there’s a lot of fear.” -Julia “When you say to me ‘I’ve never had somebody say I won’t pay you ahead of time,’ the only reason is because they haven’t been left with any questions. There’s absolutely no uncertainty in their minds what happens if they give you this money now. You’ve answered all the questions, and that comes from having that enunciated process, and having the confidence to express that process.” -LuAnn More About Julia Miller: j. miller interiors is a Minneapolis based residential interior design studio committed to creating carefully curated spaces with the highest level of craftsmanship. j. miller interiors focuses on developing homes that are reflections of the clients who live in them through expertly selected fixtures, finishes and furnishings. Through our collaborative, transparent process, we work with clients to create a home they love. j miller interiors serves clients locally in the Twin Cities and across the country through our signature distance design service.  Connect with Julia Miller: Website Instagram  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit. Their workflow software keeps your design projects organized from beginning to end. They also offer a thriving design community so you’re never on your own. You can get started with Mydoma at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. At Monogram, it’s all about the details that come together to create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed for you. Their trade professionals program helps educate you on the details and nuances that you need to understand so you can bring the best to your clients and share those details effectively. Become a trade partner today at monogram.com/luann.  Other Shows Mentioned:  #55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching #601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #522 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained #464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA #547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills #454 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal – Lawyers That Speak Designer #149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee #566 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss #412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience   Today with Julia Miller: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more questions. On today’s episode, I chat with Julia Miller of j. millers interiors, as she shares how she tackled those questions and made the decisions that let her business evolve and thrive.

Pick it apart:

  • [12:30] Julia discusses her exit plan that laid the groundwork for her to leave her previous career and launch her design firm.
  • [20:44] LuAnn and Julia discuss the tricky question of determining your rates when you don’t have any experience.
  • [27:08] Julia shares insights onto how she manages to stay booked out almost six months in advance and communicate that timeframe to her clients. 
  • [43:51] Julia dives into how she uses Pinterest boards to keep her clients busy while they wait for their projects to start.
  • [50:39] LuAnn and Julia dig into Julia’s method for using finances to determine her project workload. 

LuAnn and Julia Miller’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I never let myself believe that I could ever make a career change until I had the personal experience and the validation from people that I didn’t know on Instagram.” -Julia

“So often, any business that we do, or any career, whether it’s interior design or whatever it is, we can fall into the trap of not placing enough value on what we’re going to charge because we’re new at it.” -LuAnn

“It was definitely a process of trying to figure out how many projects I needed at what rate and how many hours to make my ends meet financially. Part of that is knowing your worth and being able to charge for that, but also knowing how many hours it realistically takes you to do a project.” -Julia

“I think there’s a lot of scarcity mindset in this business, and I think for people who don’t have a business mindset, there’s a lot of fear.” -Julia

“When you say to me ‘I’ve never had somebody say I won’t pay you ahead of time,’ the only reason is because they haven’t been left with any questions. There’s absolutely no uncertainty in their minds what happens if they give you this money now. You’ve answered all the questions, and that comes from having that enunciated process, and having the confidence to express that process.” -LuAnn

More About Julia Miller:

j. miller interiors is a Minneapolis based residential interior design studio committed to creating carefully curated spaces with the highest level of craftsmanship. j. miller interiors focuses on developing homes that are reflections of the clients who live in them through expertly selected fixtures, finishes and furnishings. Through our collaborative, transparent process, we work with clients to create a home they love. j miller interiors serves clients locally in the Twin Cities and across the country through our signature distance design service. 

Connect with Julia Miller:

Website

Instagram 

Pinterest 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit. Their workflow software keeps your design projects organized from beginning to end. They also offer a thriving design community so you’re never on your own. You can get started with Mydoma at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

At Monogram, it’s all about the details that come together to create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed for you. Their trade professionals program helps educate you on the details and nuances that you need to understand so you can bring the best to your clients and share those details effectively. Become a trade partner today at monogram.com/luann. 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

#601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

#522 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained

#464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

#349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

#547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills

#454 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal – Lawyers That Speak Designer

#149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee

#566 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss

#412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience

 

]]> 4095 no 626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/626-power-talk-friday-jude-charles-how-to-tell-your-story-to-connect-with-clients-in-interior-design Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude is a video storyteller and he’s showing us how he works his magic for brands by using LuAnn as his guinea pig! Don’t miss this journey through LuAnn’s heart and mind as we discover what makes LuAnn LuAnn and how the simple moments of her life inform her why. Pick it apart: [14:31] LuAnn gives advice on being patient and working hard while you’re finding your way   [29:21] LuAnn talks about when she realized her first career was more than selling blinds   [32:43] Jude and LuAnn talk about clients wanting to know who you really are    [43:14] LuAnn tells the story about when she exhibited integrity in her Window Works business   [51:55] Jude sums up the value of storytelling   [55:23] Jude talks about what makes someone want to do business with a particular designer LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “Sometimes, you’re creating the life experiences so you’re ready to do and be the thing...just give it a minute.” —LuAnn   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 Fri, 25 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design full 626 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude is a video storyteller and he’s showing us how he works his magic for brands by using LuAnn as his guinea pig! Don’t miss this journey through LuAnn’s heart and... Today with Jude Charles:  We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude is a video storyteller and he’s showing us how he works his magic for brands by using LuAnn as his guinea pig! Don’t miss this journey through LuAnn’s heart and mind as we discover what makes LuAnn LuAnn and how the simple moments of her life inform her why. Pick it apart: [14:31] LuAnn gives advice on being patient and working hard while you’re finding your way   [29:21] LuAnn talks about when she realized her first career was more than selling blinds   [32:43] Jude and LuAnn talk about clients wanting to know who you really are    [43:14] LuAnn tells the story about when she exhibited integrity in her Window Works business   [51:55] Jude sums up the value of storytelling   [55:23] Jude talks about what makes someone want to do business with a particular designer LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments: “Sometimes, you’re creating the life experiences so you’re ready to do and be the thing...just give it a minute.” —LuAnn   More About Jude Charles: Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.   Connect with Jude Charles Website  LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10. Other Shows Mentioned:  #516 Today with Jude Charles: 

We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude is a video storyteller and he’s showing us how he works his magic for brands by using LuAnn as his guinea pig! Don’t miss this journey through LuAnn’s heart and mind as we discover what makes LuAnn LuAnn and how the simple moments of her life inform her why.

Pick it apart:

[14:31] LuAnn gives advice on being patient and working hard while you’re finding your way

 

[29:21] LuAnn talks about when she realized her first career was more than selling blinds

 

[32:43] Jude and LuAnn talk about clients wanting to know who you really are 

 

[43:14] LuAnn tells the story about when she exhibited integrity in her Window Works business

 

[51:55] Jude sums up the value of storytelling

 

[55:23] Jude talks about what makes someone want to do business with a particular designer

LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments:

“Sometimes, you’re creating the life experiences so you’re ready to do and be the thing...just give it a minute.” —LuAnn

 

More About Jude Charles:

Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.

 

Connect with Jude Charles

Website 

LinkedIn

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#516

]]> 4735 no 625: Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/625-coco-jack-flexibility-and-balance-between-interior-design-and-family Today with Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, Luann is joined by Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack. Steve and Alyssa run their firm together without any other employees, with Steve running the business and sales side, and Alyssa creating the designs. They also have a large family with four young children. Today, they’re sharing their strategies for running a growing business together while staying flexible and balanced with their family.    Pick it apart: [14:48] Steve dives into Coco & Jack’s pricing process [19:08] LuAnn and Steve dissect how to determine the budget, even if the client is unsure or less-than-forthcoming [28:07] Luann and Alyssa discuss how referring out projects is sometimes vital for growing to the next stage of business [29:23] Alyssa shares how the flow of the workweek and balancing parenthood looks for them [38:36] Luann and Alyssa discuss the double-edged sword of Pinterest-based design and how to maintain creativity when design examples are just a few clicks away LuAnn, Steve and Alyssa’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s not just having a person who’s capable and qualified to come in and do the project management, but the trust and confidence that it’s your husband, that he’s as invested and has your back and the best interest of the company, you, and the clients in mind.” -LuAnn   “That process of trying to figure out where our budget numbers are going to be, comes from talking with the potential client about their lifestyle, the way they’re living now, what area they’re living in...it chances on every project we quote.” -Steve   “It’s a tough time. I talk to designers about making that transition from all of the projects, when we’re in that phase of ‘We have to take all the business we can because we have to get this company up and rolling,’ and then making that transition to weeding those out.” -LuAnn   “It’s interesting because we’re together all the time, but we still don’t know where we are until we get to that Monday morning meeting. Then we’re back on track again.” -Steve   “When I think back to when I first started my business, Pinterest was a lot smaller. Instagram was a lot smaller. There wasn’t as much out there. You were forced to look in more creative ways for inspiration. Now, it’s just so easy to find all these beautiful ideas, with endless amounts of it. It enables copying a lot more than going you and being authentic with design.” -Alyssa   More About Coco & Jack: Coco & Jack is a full-service interior design studio run by husband and wife team Steve and Alyssa Terpstra. After years of talking about working together, they were finally able to take the leap and make the dream a possibility. Steve has a passion for business and manages everything behind the scenes, while Alyssa is all about the design, and can’t get enough of space planning and fabric samples. Whether you are building your dream home, or just need help decorating a room, we love making houses feel more like home!   Connect with Coco & Jack: Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest YouTube     What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Monogram: At Monogram, no detail gets overlooked. In fact, it’s the details that create luxury appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed perfectly for your client. That’s why Monogram works to make sure that you have the right, detailed information to share with your clients. They even offer easy-to-use 3D design tools to make your job easier. Get started with their trade program at www.monogram.com/luann.   Kravet: You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Want more of the story behind the collection? Explore the new editorial blog, Inspired, for a behind the scenes look at everything Kravet has to offer. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering.  Other Shows Mentioned:  #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm   Wed, 23 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family full 625 LuAnn Nigara Today with Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, Luann is joined by Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack. Steve and Alyssa run their firm together without any other... Today with Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, Luann is joined by Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack. Steve and Alyssa run their firm together without any other employees, with Steve running the business and sales side, and Alyssa creating the designs. They also have a large family with four young children. Today, they’re sharing their strategies for running a growing business together while staying flexible and balanced with their family.    Pick it apart: [14:48] Steve dives into Coco & Jack’s pricing process [19:08] LuAnn and Steve dissect how to determine the budget, even if the client is unsure or less-than-forthcoming [28:07] Luann and Alyssa discuss how referring out projects is sometimes vital for growing to the next stage of business [29:23] Alyssa shares how the flow of the workweek and balancing parenthood looks for them [38:36] Luann and Alyssa discuss the double-edged sword of Pinterest-based design and how to maintain creativity when design examples are just a few clicks away LuAnn, Steve and Alyssa’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s not just having a person who’s capable and qualified to come in and do the project management, but the trust and confidence that it’s your husband, that he’s as invested and has your back and the best interest of the company, you, and the clients in mind.” -LuAnn   “That process of trying to figure out where our budget numbers are going to be, comes from talking with the potential client about their lifestyle, the way they’re living now, what area they’re living in...it chances on every project we quote.” -Steve   “It’s a tough time. I talk to designers about making that transition from all of the projects, when we’re in that phase of ‘We have to take all the business we can because we have to get this company up and rolling,’ and then making that transition to weeding those out.” -LuAnn   “It’s interesting because we’re together all the time, but we still don’t know where we are until we get to that Monday morning meeting. Then we’re back on track again.” -Steve   “When I think back to when I first started my business, Pinterest was a lot smaller. Instagram was a lot smaller. There wasn’t as much out there. You were forced to look in more creative ways for inspiration. Now, it’s just so easy to find all these beautiful ideas, with endless amounts of it. It enables copying a lot more than going you and being authentic with design.” -Alyssa   More About Coco & Jack: Coco & Jack is a full-service interior design studio run by husband and wife team Steve and Alyssa Terpstra. After years of talking about working together, they were finally able to take the leap and make the dream a possibility. Steve has a passion for business and manages everything behind the scenes, while Alyssa is all about the design, and can’t get enough of space planning and fabric samples. Whether you are building your dream home, or just need help decorating a room, we love making houses feel more like home!   Connect with Coco & Jack: Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest YouTube     What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Monogram: At Monogram, no detail gets overlooked. In fact, it’s the details that create luxury appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed perfectly for your client. That’s why Monogram works to make sure that you have the right, detailed information to share with your clients. They even offer easy-to-use 3D design tools to make your job easier. Get started with their trade program at www.monogram.com/luann.   Kravet: You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Want more of the story behind the collection? Explore the new editorial blog, Inspired, for a behind the scenes look at everything Kravet has to offer. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering.  Other Shows Mentioned:  #587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest #270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm   Today with Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, Luann is joined by Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack. Steve and Alyssa run their firm together without any other employees, with Steve running the business and sales side, and Alyssa creating the designs. They also have a large family with four young children. Today, they’re sharing their strategies for running a growing business together while staying flexible and balanced with their family. 

 

Pick it apart:

  • [14:48] Steve dives into Coco & Jack’s pricing process
  • [19:08] LuAnn and Steve dissect how to determine the budget, even if the client is unsure or less-than-forthcoming
  • [28:07] Luann and Alyssa discuss how referring out projects is sometimes vital for growing to the next stage of business
  • [29:23] Alyssa shares how the flow of the workweek and balancing parenthood looks for them
  • [38:36] Luann and Alyssa discuss the double-edged sword of Pinterest-based design and how to maintain creativity when design examples are just a few clicks away

LuAnn, Steve and Alyssa’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s not just having a person who’s capable and qualified to come in and do the project management, but the trust and confidence that it’s your husband, that he’s as invested and has your back and the best interest of the company, you, and the clients in mind.” -LuAnn

 

“That process of trying to figure out where our budget numbers are going to be, comes from talking with the potential client about their lifestyle, the way they’re living now, what area they’re living in...it chances on every project we quote.” -Steve

 

“It’s a tough time. I talk to designers about making that transition from all of the projects, when we’re in that phase of ‘We have to take all the business we can because we have to get this company up and rolling,’ and then making that transition to weeding those out.” -LuAnn

 

“It’s interesting because we’re together all the time, but we still don’t know where we are until we get to that Monday morning meeting. Then we’re back on track again.” -Steve

 

“When I think back to when I first started my business, Pinterest was a lot smaller. Instagram was a lot smaller. There wasn’t as much out there. You were forced to look in more creative ways for inspiration. Now, it’s just so easy to find all these beautiful ideas, with endless amounts of it. It enables copying a lot more than going you and being authentic with design.” -Alyssa

 

More About Coco & Jack:

Coco & Jack is a full-service interior design studio run by husband and wife team Steve and Alyssa Terpstra. After years of talking about working together, they were finally able to take the leap and make the dream a possibility. Steve has a passion for business and manages everything behind the scenes, while Alyssa is all about the design, and can’t get enough of space planning and fabric samples.

Whether you are building your dream home, or just need help decorating a room, we love making houses feel more like home!

 

Connect with Coco & Jack:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube  

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Monogram: At Monogram, no detail gets overlooked. In fact, it’s the details that create luxury appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed perfectly for your client. That’s why Monogram works to make sure that you have the right, detailed information to share with your clients. They even offer easy-to-use 3D design tools to make your job easier. Get started with their trade program at www.monogram.com/luann.

 

Kravet: You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Want more of the story behind the collection? Explore the new editorial blog, Inspired, for a behind the scenes look at everything Kravet has to offer. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering. 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

#480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success

#474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

 

]]> 3639 no 624: Is LuAnn Live Worth It? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/624-is-luann-live-worth-it Today on A Well-Designed Business®:  Have you been wondering if LuAnn Live 2021 is worth it? Well, on today’s episode I am going to address your concerns and tell you exactly why it’s worth it!   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Tue, 22 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Is LuAnn Live Worth It? full 624 LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well-Designed Business®:  Have you been wondering if LuAnn Live 2021 is worth it? Well, on today’s episode I am going to address your concerns and tell you exactly why it’s worth it!   What's new with LuAnn Nigara  ... Today on A Well-Designed Business®:  Have you been wondering if LuAnn Live 2021 is worth it? Well, on today’s episode I am going to address your concerns and tell you exactly why it’s worth it!   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Today on A Well-Designed Business®: 

Have you been wondering if LuAnn Live 2021 is worth it? Well, on today’s episode I am going to address your concerns and tell you exactly why it’s worth it!

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

]]> 1324 no 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/623-power-talk-friday-charlotte-safavi-robert-radifera-the-art-of-making-not-taking-a-photo Today with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:  Photography experts Charlotte Safavi and Robert Radifera join us to talk about how they create publication-ready photography that tells the story of your space. Listen in as the dynamic duo guide us through the process of preparing the space and doing whatever has to be done to get the perfect shot. More About Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: Stylish Productions (photo-stylist Charlotte Safavi and photographer Robert Radifera) is a holistic, boutique business dedicated to creating editorial-quality interior and architectural photography. We also offer design clients related services, such as logo, website, branding, social media, and marketing support. Between us (me and Robert), our work has been published in many magazines, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Home, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Cottages & Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and more. Connect with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: Website  Instagram  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Fri, 18 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo full 623 LuAnn Nigara Today with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:  Photography experts Charlotte Safavi and Robert Radifera join us to talk about how they create publication-ready photography that tells the story of your space. Listen in as the dynamic duo... Today with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:  Photography experts Charlotte Safavi and Robert Radifera join us to talk about how they create publication-ready photography that tells the story of your space. Listen in as the dynamic duo guide us through the process of preparing the space and doing whatever has to be done to get the perfect shot. More About Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: Stylish Productions (photo-stylist Charlotte Safavi and photographer Robert Radifera) is a holistic, boutique business dedicated to creating editorial-quality interior and architectural photography. We also offer design clients related services, such as logo, website, branding, social media, and marketing support. Between us (me and Robert), our work has been published in many magazines, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Home, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Cottages & Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and more. Connect with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: Website  Instagram  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Today with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: 

Photography experts Charlotte Safavi and Robert Radifera join us to talk about how they create publication-ready photography that tells the story of your space. Listen in as the dynamic duo guide us through the process of preparing the space and doing whatever has to be done to get the perfect shot.

More About Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:

Stylish Productions (photo-stylist Charlotte Safavi and photographer Robert Radifera) is a holistic, boutique business dedicated to creating editorial-quality interior and architectural photography. We also offer design clients related services, such as logo, website, branding, social media, and marketing support. Between us (me and Robert), our work has been published in many magazines, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Home, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Cottages & Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and more.

Connect with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:

Website 

Instagram 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

]]> 3661 no 622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/622-dwayne-bergmann-empower-your-team-to-own-the-project-management-while-maintaining-design-vision-as-the-creative-director Today with Dwayne Bergmann:  Dwayne Bergmann switched from a corporate career to launch a design firm because he loves to design. With a growing team and 40 active projects, how does he ensure he’s still doing the design work he loves? Dwayne guides us through the detailed structure, activities and deliverables he uses to allow him to manage a 13-person team while still staying close to the creative. Pick it apart: [21:57] Dwayne compares developing and executing business processes to the process of creating and editing a design project [33:01] Dwayne explains how he directs his designers and oversees the design process [49:07] Dwayne talks about how he controls the firm’s priorities [1:02:30] Dwayne walks through the activities and deliverables of his structured design project management system LuAnn and Dwayne Bergmann’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m managing reports, not transactions.” - Dwayne Bergman “Having a detailed organizational process is what allows us to be creative.” - Dwayne Bergman “The structure allows the creativing to flow uninterrupted.” - Dwayne Bergman “Don’t spoon feed your team. They have to be capable of making decisions and becoming effective leaders.” - Dwayne Bergman More About Dwayne Bergmann: Dwayne Bergmann Interiors is a renowned design firm driven by an inherent mission to create ideal backdrops for the lives his clients want to live. Founder and principal Dwayne Bergmann and his team value discovery, creativity and human interaction, and use these three as the jumping-off point for their evolved and highly tailored designs. They connect. They listen. They then use this information to design with abandon, taking risks and tearing down the walls of what’s possible to create spaces that are as authentic and dynamic as the individuals for whom they are designing.   Founded in 2013 and based in South Florida, with offices in Fort Myers and Naples, Dwayne Bergmann Interiors specializes in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects, from architecture and interiors to full-service design-build, throughout the United States, Canada, South America and the Bahamas. His projects have enlivened the pages of countless publications, including Luxe Interiors + Design, East Coast Home + Design, Gulfshore Life, and Naples Illustrated, among others. Inspired by art, nature and the visual curiosities of both the everyday and the extraordinary, Bergmann is known for his inventive kitchen and bath concepts, as well as his custom furniture designs. His ultimate goals is to have his clients walk into their Dwayne Bergmann Interiors—designed home and feel as if they can’t believe they get to live there. Connect with Dwayne Bergmann Website  Instagram   Facebook  LinkedIn     What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:  Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Tue, 15 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director full 622 LuAnn Nigara Today with Dwayne Bergmann:  Dwayne Bergmann switched from a corporate career to launch a design firm because he loves to design. With a growing team and 40 active projects, how does he ensure he’s still doing the design work he loves? Dwayne... Today with Dwayne Bergmann:  Dwayne Bergmann switched from a corporate career to launch a design firm because he loves to design. With a growing team and 40 active projects, how does he ensure he’s still doing the design work he loves? Dwayne guides us through the detailed structure, activities and deliverables he uses to allow him to manage a 13-person team while still staying close to the creative. Pick it apart: [21:57] Dwayne compares developing and executing business processes to the process of creating and editing a design project [33:01] Dwayne explains how he directs his designers and oversees the design process [49:07] Dwayne talks about how he controls the firm’s priorities [1:02:30] Dwayne walks through the activities and deliverables of his structured design project management system LuAnn and Dwayne Bergmann’s Ah-Ha moments: “I’m managing reports, not transactions.” - Dwayne Bergman “Having a detailed organizational process is what allows us to be creative.” - Dwayne Bergman “The structure allows the creativing to flow uninterrupted.” - Dwayne Bergman “Don’t spoon feed your team. They have to be capable of making decisions and becoming effective leaders.” - Dwayne Bergman More About Dwayne Bergmann: Dwayne Bergmann Interiors is a renowned design firm driven by an inherent mission to create ideal backdrops for the lives his clients want to live. Founder and principal Dwayne Bergmann and his team value discovery, creativity and human interaction, and use these three as the jumping-off point for their evolved and highly tailored designs. They connect. They listen. They then use this information to design with abandon, taking risks and tearing down the walls of what’s possible to create spaces that are as authentic and dynamic as the individuals for whom they are designing.   Founded in 2013 and based in South Florida, with offices in Fort Myers and Naples, Dwayne Bergmann Interiors specializes in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects, from architecture and interiors to full-service design-build, throughout the United States, Canada, South America and the Bahamas. His projects have enlivened the pages of countless publications, including Luxe Interiors + Design, East Coast Home + Design, Gulfshore Life, and Naples Illustrated, among others. Inspired by art, nature and the visual curiosities of both the everyday and the extraordinary, Bergmann is known for his inventive kitchen and bath concepts, as well as his custom furniture designs. His ultimate goals is to have his clients walk into their Dwayne Bergmann Interiors—designed home and feel as if they can’t believe they get to live there. Connect with Dwayne Bergmann Website  Instagram   Facebook  LinkedIn     What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:  Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.   Today with Dwayne Bergmann: 

Dwayne Bergmann switched from a corporate career to launch a design firm because he loves to design. With a growing team and 40 active projects, how does he ensure he’s still doing the design work he loves? Dwayne guides us through the detailed structure, activities and deliverables he uses to allow him to manage a 13-person team while still staying close to the creative.

Pick it apart:

[21:57] Dwayne compares developing and executing business processes to the process of creating and editing a design project

[33:01] Dwayne explains how he directs his designers and oversees the design process

[49:07] Dwayne talks about how he controls the firm’s priorities

[1:02:30] Dwayne walks through the activities and deliverables of his structured design project management system

LuAnn and Dwayne Bergmann’s Ah-Ha moments:

  • “I’m managing reports, not transactions.” - Dwayne Bergman
  • “Having a detailed organizational process is what allows us to be creative.” - Dwayne Bergman
  • “The structure allows the creativing to flow uninterrupted.” - Dwayne Bergman
  • “Don’t spoon feed your team. They have to be capable of making decisions and becoming effective leaders.” - Dwayne Bergman

More About Dwayne Bergmann:

Dwayne Bergmann Interiors is a renowned design firm driven by an inherent mission to create ideal backdrops for the lives his clients want to live. Founder and principal Dwayne Bergmann and his team value discovery, creativity and human interaction, and use these three as the jumping-off point for their evolved and highly tailored designs. They connect. They listen. They then use this information to design with abandon, taking risks and tearing down the walls of what’s possible to create spaces that are as authentic and dynamic as the individuals for whom they are designing.

 

Founded in 2013 and based in South Florida, with offices in Fort Myers and Naples, Dwayne Bergmann Interiors specializes in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects, from architecture and interiors to full-service design-build, throughout the United States, Canada, South America and the Bahamas. His projects have enlivened the pages of countless publications, including Luxe Interiors + Design, East Coast Home + Design, Gulfshore Life, and Naples Illustrated, among others. Inspired by art, nature and the visual curiosities of both the everyday and the extraordinary, Bergmann is known for his inventive kitchen and bath concepts, as well as his custom furniture designs. His ultimate goals is to have his clients walk into their Dwayne Bergmann Interiors—designed home and feel as if they can’t believe they get to live there.

Connect with Dwayne Bergmann

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

LinkedIn  

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

 Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

 

]]> 4394 no 621: East End Interiors: An Inside Look At The Design Trade Furniture Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/621-east-end-interiors-an-inside-look-at-the-design-trade-furniture-industry Today with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors :  Today on the show I sit down with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors, a trade furniture showroom for designers. With 30 years in business, everyone at East End is dedicated not only to providing quality furnishings that designers can offer their clients, but an immersive partnership full of education, assistance, trust, and value. Tune in to hear an insider look at the design trade furniture industry and how you can get more out of it.  More About Sal Campitello: For over a decade, Salvatore Campitiello of East End Interiors has been a local industry leader in the interior design field.  After serving as President of the Long Island Chapter of the Interior Design Society, Sal realized the importance of investing his time in talking about effective business strategies with both existing and future interior designers.  Sal’s excellent reputation as an entrepreneur, problem solver, and business advisor has led the talented East End Interiors team to create an incomparable Designer Showroom experience, exclusively to the trade.   Family is what makes East End Interiors special.  Founded by Rosalba Campitiello over 30 years ago, she was later joined by her husband Nick and two of their children, Enza and Sal.  Together, with a dedicated staff, designers have the support of an experienced team behind them.  This unique model is centered on the success of the interior designer. Visit eastendinteriors.com to learn more Connect with East End Interiors Website Instagram  Facebook  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2    Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:   Other Shows Mentioned:  #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit #504 Eric Ross: Operating His Design Firm Like a Retail Store #482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big Fri, 11 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 East End Interiors: An Inside Look At The Design Trade Furniture Industry full 621 LuAnn Nigara Today with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors :  Today on the show I sit down with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors, a trade furniture showroom for designers. With 30 years in business, everyone at East End is dedicated not only to... Today with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors :  Today on the show I sit down with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors, a trade furniture showroom for designers. With 30 years in business, everyone at East End is dedicated not only to providing quality furnishings that designers can offer their clients, but an immersive partnership full of education, assistance, trust, and value. Tune in to hear an insider look at the design trade furniture industry and how you can get more out of it.  More About Sal Campitello: For over a decade, Salvatore Campitiello of East End Interiors has been a local industry leader in the interior design field.  After serving as President of the Long Island Chapter of the Interior Design Society, Sal realized the importance of investing his time in talking about effective business strategies with both existing and future interior designers.  Sal’s excellent reputation as an entrepreneur, problem solver, and business advisor has led the talented East End Interiors team to create an incomparable Designer Showroom experience, exclusively to the trade.   Family is what makes East End Interiors special.  Founded by Rosalba Campitiello over 30 years ago, she was later joined by her husband Nick and two of their children, Enza and Sal.  Together, with a dedicated staff, designers have the support of an experienced team behind them.  This unique model is centered on the success of the interior designer. Visit eastendinteriors.com to learn more Connect with East End Interiors Website Instagram  Facebook  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2    Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:   Other Shows Mentioned:  #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit #504 Eric Ross: Operating His Design Firm Like a Retail Store #482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big Today with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors : 

Today on the show I sit down with Sal Campitello of East End Interiors, a trade furniture showroom for designers. With 30 years in business, everyone at East End is dedicated not only to providing quality furnishings that designers can offer their clients, but an immersive partnership full of education, assistance, trust, and value. Tune in to hear an insider look at the design trade furniture industry and how you can get more out of it. 

More About Sal Campitello:

For over a decade, Salvatore Campitiello of East End Interiors has been a local industry leader in the interior design field.  After serving as President of the Long Island Chapter of the Interior Design Society, Sal realized the importance of investing his time in talking about effective business strategies with both existing and future interior designers.  Sal’s excellent reputation as an entrepreneur, problem solver, and business advisor has led the talented East End Interiors team to create an incomparable Designer Showroom experience, exclusively to the trade.  

Family is what makes East End Interiors special.  Founded by Rosalba Campitiello over 30 years ago, she was later joined by her husband Nick and two of their children, Enza and Sal.  Together, with a dedicated staff, designers have the support of an experienced team behind them.  This unique model is centered on the success of the interior designer. Visit eastendinteriors.com to learn more

Connect with East End Interiors

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

#554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

#504 Eric Ross: Operating His Design Firm Like a Retail Store

#482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big

]]> 4569 no 620: Melissa Leclair: Figuring It Out As You Grow Your Modern Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/620-melissa-leclair-figuring-it-out-as-you-grow-your-modern-interior-design-business Today with Melissa Leclair:  In five years, self-taught interior designer Melissa Leclair and husband Sacha have created Leclair Decor, an Ottawa-based full-service design firm with a 10,000sf showroom and an expansive e-commerce store. Melissa shares how they built their business and their team of 45 in a heavily digital environment and how important going with your gut and having a commitment to communication and constant improvement really is in the design industry. Pick it apart: [11:40] Melissa reviews her design team makeup [19:27] Melissa shares how her business started as a side hustle [32:09] Melissa and LuAnn review the business roles of Melissa and husband, Sacha [38:00] Melissa reveals her design project onboarding process [49:49] Melissa talks about how her team does virtual presentations LuAnn and  Melissa Leclair’s Ah-Ha moments: "Every time you think you have lots of space, it quickly gets eaten up—always plan for more." - Melissa Leclair "You can never be too heavy on communication." - Melissa Leclair  "If you want to have market share, you’ve got to get out there and get it." - Melissa Leclair    “The Pretty” More About Melissa Leclair: Leclair Decor is an Ottawa-based full service residential design firm founded and co-owned by husband and wife team Sacha and Melissa Leclair. The business (just a side hustle at first) began in 2011, after we bought and revamped our first home and started receiving inquiries from friends and family about decorating services for their spaces.  Since then, the company has evolved into a full-fledged residential design firm, with a principal focus on high end remodels and new builds. Though we are based in Ottawa, Canada our talented design team now serves clients across North America, using industry-leading software and embracing all modern means of digital communication to work seamlessly with homeowners throughout Canada and the US.  LD Shoppe is the retail store of Leclair Decor, a husband and wife owned residential design firm based out of Ottawa, Canada. Our decorating & design business has been rapidly growing over the past few years and to better serve our clients we decided to open a store to showcase our favourite products from our favourite manufacturers. In September 2017 we opened our first brick and mortar showroom to compliment our online offerings. In December 2018 we opened a new 4200 sq ft location at the Ottawa Trainyards. 2019 saw us expand our showroom to just under 10000 sq ft.  Why shop with us? Think of us as your local mom and pop shop, of the internet. We're a small family owned business and we strive to provide personalized customer service. We're passionate about well designed, stylish and practical long lasting furniture, rugs, art, lighting, and decor. We use the products we showcase on this site ourselves and recommend them to clients. We're confident you'll love them too!  Connect with Melissa LeClair Website  Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest  YouTube    What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods runs their wood flooring business with a commitment to continual improvement and problem solving. They’ve created a system that serves to provide designers with a 24/7 digital flooring expert. If you need advice on what woods are right for your client’s climate, lifestyle, and budget, just go do revelwoods.com/revel-wood-selector, enter your specs and they’ll provide you with filtered options that will work perfectly for your project. You’ll also want to set up your design account at revelwoods.com/pro-account to receive benefits reserved for the trade. Tue, 08 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Melissa Leclair: Figuring It Out As You Grow Your Modern Interior Design Business full 620 LuAnn Nigara Today with Melissa Leclair:  In five years, self-taught interior designer Melissa Leclair and husband Sacha have created Leclair Decor, an Ottawa-based full-service design firm with a 10,000sf showroom and an expansive e-commerce store. Melissa... Today with Melissa Leclair:  In five years, self-taught interior designer Melissa Leclair and husband Sacha have created Leclair Decor, an Ottawa-based full-service design firm with a 10,000sf showroom and an expansive e-commerce store. Melissa shares how they built their business and their team of 45 in a heavily digital environment and how important going with your gut and having a commitment to communication and constant improvement really is in the design industry. Pick it apart: [11:40] Melissa reviews her design team makeup [19:27] Melissa shares how her business started as a side hustle [32:09] Melissa and LuAnn review the business roles of Melissa and husband, Sacha [38:00] Melissa reveals her design project onboarding process [49:49] Melissa talks about how her team does virtual presentations LuAnn and  Melissa Leclair’s Ah-Ha moments: "Every time you think you have lots of space, it quickly gets eaten up—always plan for more." - Melissa Leclair "You can never be too heavy on communication." - Melissa Leclair  "If you want to have market share, you’ve got to get out there and get it." - Melissa Leclair    “The Pretty” More About Melissa Leclair: Leclair Decor is an Ottawa-based full service residential design firm founded and co-owned by husband and wife team Sacha and Melissa Leclair. The business (just a side hustle at first) began in 2011, after we bought and revamped our first home and started receiving inquiries from friends and family about decorating services for their spaces.  Since then, the company has evolved into a full-fledged residential design firm, with a principal focus on high end remodels and new builds. Though we are based in Ottawa, Canada our talented design team now serves clients across North America, using industry-leading software and embracing all modern means of digital communication to work seamlessly with homeowners throughout Canada and the US.  LD Shoppe is the retail store of Leclair Decor, a husband and wife owned residential design firm based out of Ottawa, Canada. Our decorating & design business has been rapidly growing over the past few years and to better serve our clients we decided to open a store to showcase our favourite products from our favourite manufacturers. In September 2017 we opened our first brick and mortar showroom to compliment our online offerings. In December 2018 we opened a new 4200 sq ft location at the Ottawa Trainyards. 2019 saw us expand our showroom to just under 10000 sq ft.  Why shop with us? Think of us as your local mom and pop shop, of the internet. We're a small family owned business and we strive to provide personalized customer service. We're passionate about well designed, stylish and practical long lasting furniture, rugs, art, lighting, and decor. We use the products we showcase on this site ourselves and recommend them to clients. We're confident you'll love them too!  Connect with Melissa LeClair Website  Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest  YouTube    What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods runs their wood flooring business with a commitment to continual improvement and problem solving. They’ve created a system that serves to provide designers with a 24/7 digital flooring expert. If you need advice on what woods are right for your client’s climate, lifestyle, and budget, just go do revelwoods.com/revel-wood-selector, enter your specs and they’ll provide you with filtered options that will work perfectly for your project. You’ll also want to set up your design account at revelwoods.com/pro-account to receive benefits reserved for the trade. Today with Melissa Leclair: 

In five years, self-taught interior designer Melissa Leclair and husband Sacha have created Leclair Decor, an Ottawa-based full-service design firm with a 10,000sf showroom and an expansive e-commerce store. Melissa shares how they built their business and their team of 45 in a heavily digital environment and how important going with your gut and having a commitment to communication and constant improvement really is in the design industry.

Pick it apart:

[11:40] Melissa reviews her design team makeup

[19:27] Melissa shares how her business started as a side hustle

[32:09] Melissa and LuAnn review the business roles of Melissa and husband, Sacha

[38:00] Melissa reveals her design project onboarding process

[49:49] Melissa talks about how her team does virtual presentations

LuAnn and  Melissa Leclair’s Ah-Ha moments:

"Every time you think you have lots of space, it quickly gets eaten up—always plan for more." - Melissa Leclair

"You can never be too heavy on communication." - Melissa Leclair 

"If you want to have market share, you’ve got to get out there and get it." - Melissa Leclair 

 

“The Pretty”




More About Melissa Leclair:

Leclair Decor is an Ottawa-based full service residential design firm founded and co-owned by husband and wife team Sacha and Melissa Leclair. The business (just a side hustle at first) began in 2011, after we bought and revamped our first home and started receiving inquiries from friends and family about decorating services for their spaces. 

Since then, the company has evolved into a full-fledged residential design firm, with a principal focus on high end remodels and new builds. Though we are based in Ottawa, Canada our talented design team now serves clients across North America, using industry-leading software and embracing all modern means of digital communication to work seamlessly with homeowners throughout Canada and the US. 

LD Shoppe is the retail store of Leclair Decor, a husband and wife owned residential design firm based out of Ottawa, Canada. Our decorating & design business has been rapidly growing over the past few years and to better serve our clients we decided to open a store to showcase our favourite products from our favourite manufacturers. In September 2017 we opened our first brick and mortar showroom to compliment our online offerings. In December 2018 we opened a new 4200 sq ft location at the Ottawa Trainyards. 2019 saw us expand our showroom to just under 10000 sq ft. 

Why shop with us? Think of us as your local mom and pop shop, of the internet. We're a small family owned business and we strive to provide personalized customer service. We're passionate about well designed, stylish and practical long lasting furniture, rugs, art, lighting, and decor. We use the products we showcase on this site ourselves and recommend them to clients. We're confident you'll love them too! 

Connect with Melissa LeClair

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook  

Pinterest 

YouTube 

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods runs their wood flooring business with a commitment to continual improvement and problem solving. They’ve created a system that serves to provide designers with a 24/7 digital flooring expert. If you need advice on what woods are right for your client’s climate, lifestyle, and budget, just go do revelwoods.com/revel-wood-selector, enter your specs and they’ll provide you with filtered options that will work perfectly for your project. You’ll also want to set up your design account at revelwoods.com/pro-account to receive benefits reserved for the trade.

]]> 4541 no 619: Power Talk Friday: Dr. Colleen Mullen: Leadership in Times of Chaos http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/619-power-talk-friday-dr-colleen-mullen-leadership-in-times-of-chaos Today with Dr. Colleen Mullen:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, Dr. Colleen Mullen is here to discuss ways to relate to our employees in times of chaos. Dr. Colleen is a therapist, podcaster, author, and media, guest expert. She is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast and the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader.” She’s known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change. Tune in to hear what she has to say about inspiring and leading when your employees might be struggling.  More About Dr. Colleen Mullen: Dr. Colleen Mullen, Psy.D, LMFT is a therapist, podcaster, author, media guest expert, as well as a popular guest blogger.   She is known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change.   Dr. Colleen is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast in San Diego.   She’s the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader”.   She has been quoted or interviewed for over 200 articles or stories for magazines, podcast, radio and print outlets including Fortune, PsychCentral, Martha Stewart Weddings, NBC, Glamour, The New York Post, The Washington Post and many more.    Connect with Dr. Colleen Mullen Website  Instagram  Facebook   Twitter  LinkedIn Podcast Patreon  Book Listeners can download my book: The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner leader for free at  https://1drv.ms/b/s!AuqjTBFPkHqMhZgbQgztXrKwExEE3A What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma is your designer toolkit that keeps you organized, even through the chaos. Their workflow software helps you organize design projects from beginning to end. And with a thriving design community, you’ll never feel like you’re facing business organization on your own. You can start your free trial today to see the difference for yourself. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned:  #588 What Would Lu Do: Leading your Business Through an Unprecedented Growth Spurt Fri, 04 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Dr. Colleen Mullen: Leadership in Times of Chaos full 619 LuAnn Nigara Today with Dr. Colleen Mullen:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, Dr. Colleen Mullen is here to discuss ways to relate to our employees in times of chaos. Dr. Colleen is a therapist, podcaster, author, and media, guest... Today with Dr. Colleen Mullen:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, Dr. Colleen Mullen is here to discuss ways to relate to our employees in times of chaos. Dr. Colleen is a therapist, podcaster, author, and media, guest expert. She is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast and the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader.” She’s known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change. Tune in to hear what she has to say about inspiring and leading when your employees might be struggling.  More About Dr. Colleen Mullen: Dr. Colleen Mullen, Psy.D, LMFT is a therapist, podcaster, author, media guest expert, as well as a popular guest blogger.   She is known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change.   Dr. Colleen is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast in San Diego.   She’s the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader”.   She has been quoted or interviewed for over 200 articles or stories for magazines, podcast, radio and print outlets including Fortune, PsychCentral, Martha Stewart Weddings, NBC, Glamour, The New York Post, The Washington Post and many more.    Connect with Dr. Colleen Mullen Website  Instagram  Facebook   Twitter  LinkedIn Podcast Patreon  Book Listeners can download my book: The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner leader for free at  https://1drv.ms/b/s!AuqjTBFPkHqMhZgbQgztXrKwExEE3A What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma is your designer toolkit that keeps you organized, even through the chaos. Their workflow software helps you organize design projects from beginning to end. And with a thriving design community, you’ll never feel like you’re facing business organization on your own. You can start your free trial today to see the difference for yourself. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned:  #588 What Would Lu Do: Leading your Business Through an Unprecedented Growth Spurt Today with Dr. Colleen Mullen: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, Dr. Colleen Mullen is here to discuss ways to relate to our employees in times of chaos. Dr. Colleen is a therapist, podcaster, author, and media, guest expert. She is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast and the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader.” She’s known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change. Tune in to hear what she has to say about inspiring and leading when your employees might be struggling. 

More About Dr. Colleen Mullen:

Dr. Colleen Mullen, Psy.D, LMFT is a therapist, podcaster, author, media guest expert, as well as a popular guest blogger.   She is known for her unique application of chaos theory to understanding the process of change.  

Dr. Colleen is the founder of the Coaching Through Chaos private practice and podcast in San Diego.  

She’s the author of the empowering book for women, “The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner Leader”.  

She has been quoted or interviewed for over 200 articles or stories for magazines, podcast, radio and print outlets including Fortune, PsychCentral, Martha Stewart Weddings, NBC, Glamour, The New York Post, The Washington Post and many more.   

Connect with Dr. Colleen Mullen

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook  

Twitter 

LinkedIn

Podcast

Patreon 

Book

Listeners can download my book: The 60-Day Plan for Embracing Your Inner leader for free at 

https://1drv.ms/b/s!AuqjTBFPkHqMhZgbQgztXrKwExEE3A

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma is your designer toolkit that keeps you organized, even through the chaos. Their workflow software helps you organize design projects from beginning to end. And with a thriving design community, you’ll never feel like you’re facing business organization on your own. You can start your free trial today to see the difference for yourself. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#588 What Would Lu Do: Leading your Business Through an Unprecedented Growth Spurt

]]> 4428 no 618: Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/618-jenna-gaidusek-how-to-build-an-online-business-in-interior-design Today with Jenna Gaidusek:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m diving into the world of e-design with Jenna Gaidusek. She built her online firm to generate passive income and take control of her time back. But as we all know, passive income takes planning and work. Jenna’s giving us an inside look at her system and tips for how all designers can make it work for them! Pick it apart: [7:13] Jenna talks about the approach it takes to attract clients online [12:52] Jenna shares a detailed breakdown of the process she recommends for designers that want to create online income [15:20] LuAnn and Jenna talk about writer’s block and a simple hack to help overcome it when writing your blog posts [23:38] Jenna discusses how to get traction to your blog using online style quizzes [33:17] Jenna dives into the benefits of “The E-Design Tribe,” her online community for those interested in the e-design world LuAnn and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha moments: “You wanted to manage and control the time you spend, so you actively worked to put processes and systems in place to execute online design.” -LuAnn “What we do needs to be conveyed visually for people who might not have the vision like we do in our head to be able to actually see it.” -Jenna “I know this is a lot of work, but it’s work that gets done to a certain extent once, then re-tweaked and revised.” -LuAnn More About Jenna Gaidusek: Jenna Gaidusek eDesign Tribe Inc founder, eDesign U, Jenna Gaidusek Designs Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook group in July 2018 with the goal to provide her unique virtual design experience and skills to a community of like-minded industry professionals. Her goal was to create an encouraging space for virtual design to thrive and prosper. Though she has a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design, she believes eDesign isn’t limited to those with a list of credentials after your name but instead, how different industry members adapt their unique business to the online world. Now with 5+ years of eDesign exclusive offerings ranging from 1:1 clients to online courses and passive income, Jenna thinks outside the box for the industry’s future and shares ALL her knowledge with the eDesign Tribe community and her students through eDesign U. She is striving to change the stigma of remote design to show designers that eDesign (AKA electronic Design) can mean a variety of things and can be adapted to any interior design industry business model as a way to streamline processes, make extra income or produce exceptional visual presentations for clients near and far. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek  Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara We are having a party! Join us for the live launch of our newest book on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST!! Did I mention It’s a FREE event? RSVP here!  Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: coming soon! Join us for a free book launch party on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST! RSVP here!    Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is your complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. No matter where your client or team is located, work remotely or in-person seamlessly! You can get started at signup.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned:  #209 Savour Partnership - Why You Need to Build an Email List #458 Power Talk Friday – Savour Partnership: Designing Wealth Into Your Business #611 Seasonal Living: An Interior Design Virtual Showhouse Like No Other #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #418 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Durnez- Hiring an Interior Design VA Professional Tue, 01 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design full 618 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jenna Gaidusek:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m diving into the world of e-design with Jenna Gaidusek. She built her online firm to generate passive income and take control of her time back. But as we all know,... Today with Jenna Gaidusek:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m diving into the world of e-design with Jenna Gaidusek. She built her online firm to generate passive income and take control of her time back. But as we all know, passive income takes planning and work. Jenna’s giving us an inside look at her system and tips for how all designers can make it work for them! Pick it apart: [7:13] Jenna talks about the approach it takes to attract clients online [12:52] Jenna shares a detailed breakdown of the process she recommends for designers that want to create online income [15:20] LuAnn and Jenna talk about writer’s block and a simple hack to help overcome it when writing your blog posts [23:38] Jenna discusses how to get traction to your blog using online style quizzes [33:17] Jenna dives into the benefits of “The E-Design Tribe,” her online community for those interested in the e-design world LuAnn and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha moments: “You wanted to manage and control the time you spend, so you actively worked to put processes and systems in place to execute online design.” -LuAnn “What we do needs to be conveyed visually for people who might not have the vision like we do in our head to be able to actually see it.” -Jenna “I know this is a lot of work, but it’s work that gets done to a certain extent once, then re-tweaked and revised.” -LuAnn More About Jenna Gaidusek: Jenna Gaidusek eDesign Tribe Inc founder, eDesign U, Jenna Gaidusek Designs Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook group in July 2018 with the goal to provide her unique virtual design experience and skills to a community of like-minded industry professionals. Her goal was to create an encouraging space for virtual design to thrive and prosper. Though she has a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design, she believes eDesign isn’t limited to those with a list of credentials after your name but instead, how different industry members adapt their unique business to the online world. Now with 5+ years of eDesign exclusive offerings ranging from 1:1 clients to online courses and passive income, Jenna thinks outside the box for the industry’s future and shares ALL her knowledge with the eDesign Tribe community and her students through eDesign U. She is striving to change the stigma of remote design to show designers that eDesign (AKA electronic Design) can mean a variety of things and can be adapted to any interior design industry business model as a way to streamline processes, make extra income or produce exceptional visual presentations for clients near and far. Connect with Jenna Gaidusek  Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn   What's new with LuAnn Nigara We are having a party! Join us for the live launch of our newest book on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST!! Did I mention It’s a FREE event? RSVP here!  Luannlive.com www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: coming soon! Join us for a free book launch party on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST! RSVP here!    Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio is your complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. No matter where your client or team is located, work remotely or in-person seamlessly! You can get started at signup.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned:  #209 Savour Partnership - Why You Need to Build an Email List #458 Power Talk Friday – Savour Partnership: Designing Wealth Into Your Business #611 Seasonal Living: An Interior Design Virtual Showhouse Like No Other #466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What? #418 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Durnez- Hiring an Interior Design VA Professional Today with Jenna Gaidusek: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m diving into the world of e-design with Jenna Gaidusek. She built her online firm to generate passive income and take control of her time back. But as we all know, passive income takes planning and work. Jenna’s giving us an inside look at her system and tips for how all designers can make it work for them!

Pick it apart:

  • [7:13] Jenna talks about the approach it takes to attract clients online
  • [12:52] Jenna shares a detailed breakdown of the process she recommends for designers that want to create online income
  • [15:20] LuAnn and Jenna talk about writer’s block and a simple hack to help overcome it when writing your blog posts
  • [23:38] Jenna discusses how to get traction to your blog using online style quizzes
  • [33:17] Jenna dives into the benefits of “The E-Design Tribe,” her online community for those interested in the e-design world

LuAnn and Jenna Gaidusek’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You wanted to manage and control the time you spend, so you actively worked to put processes and systems in place to execute online design.” -LuAnn

“What we do needs to be conveyed visually for people who might not have the vision like we do in our head to be able to actually see it.” -Jenna

“I know this is a lot of work, but it’s work that gets done to a certain extent once, then re-tweaked and revised.” -LuAnn

More About Jenna Gaidusek:

Jenna Gaidusek eDesign Tribe Inc founder, eDesign U, Jenna Gaidusek Designs

Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook group in July 2018 with the goal to provide her unique virtual design experience and skills to a community of like-minded industry professionals.

Her goal was to create an encouraging space for virtual design to thrive and prosper. Though she has a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design, she believes eDesign isn’t limited to those with a list of credentials after your name but instead, how different industry members adapt their unique business to the online world.

Now with 5+ years of eDesign exclusive offerings ranging from 1:1 clients to online courses and passive income, Jenna thinks outside the box for the industry’s future and shares ALL her knowledge with the eDesign Tribe community and her students through eDesign U.

She is striving to change the stigma of remote design to show designers that eDesign (AKA electronic Design) can mean a variety of things and can be adapted to any interior design industry business model as a way to streamline processes, make extra income or produce exceptional visual presentations for clients near and far.

Connect with Jenna Gaidusek 

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

LinkedIn

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

We are having a party! Join us for the live launch of our newest book on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST!! Did I mention It’s a FREE event? RSVP here! 

Luannlive.com

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: coming soon! Join us for a free book launch party on December 10th, at 6:30PM EST! RSVP here! 

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is your complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. No matter where your client or team is located, work remotely or in-person seamlessly! You can get started at signup.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#209 Savour Partnership - Why You Need to Build an Email List

#458 Power Talk Friday – Savour Partnership: Designing Wealth Into Your Business

#611 Seasonal Living: An Interior Design Virtual Showhouse Like No Other

#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

#418 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Durnez- Hiring an Interior Design VA Professional

]]> 3425 no 617: Alex and Michelle Gage: Automating Your Big Picture Financial Reporting http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/617-alex-and-michelle-gage-automating-your-big-picture-financial-reporting Today with Alex and Michelle Gage: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I’m joined by Alex and Michelle Gage of Michelle Gage Interiors. When Alex saw Michelle struggling to get a clear picture of her financials, this engineer built a nice piece of software for her! Today, you’ll find out what this talented and numbers-driven interior designer was missing from her extensive Excel sheets and how it came in handy when Covid hit. More About Alex and Michelle Gage: Business Measurements grew alongside Michelle Gage Interiors as I watched Michelle evolve in the business to more complicated and detailed finances.  I saw her spend hours in Excel keeping tabs on the figures and knew there was a better way.  Computers are smarter than this.  I paid attention to her common inefficiencies and built Excel and internet tools to automatically do the work for her.  No more exporting data from your customer tracking software (Ivy/MyDoma) or Quickbooks.  Once we had this baseline built there were SO many new insightful data views we had access to - projections, trends, open PO $, spend per vendor etc.  This was a little slice of big business intelligence catered to the growing interior designer. Now Business Measurements is a subscription service with expert account setup that automatically gives the designer a day to day financial dashboard to fill the gaps between Ivy/MyDoma reporting and Quickbooks. Connect with Alex and Michelle Gage: Business Measurements for Designers  Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma helps you get paid, generate design packages, create proposals, and both purchase and workroom orders. That’s not all, it also helps with product sourcing, time tracking, and even has a client portal. Find out more about Sara and Tom’s amazingly helpful software by visiting https://www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Fri, 27 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Alex and Michelle Gage: Automating Your Big Picture Financial Reporting full 617 LuAnn Nigara Today with Alex and Michelle Gage: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I’m joined by Alex and Michelle Gage of Michelle Gage Interiors. When Alex saw Michelle struggling to get a clear picture of her financials, this engineer built a nice... Today with Alex and Michelle Gage: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I’m joined by Alex and Michelle Gage of Michelle Gage Interiors. When Alex saw Michelle struggling to get a clear picture of her financials, this engineer built a nice piece of software for her! Today, you’ll find out what this talented and numbers-driven interior designer was missing from her extensive Excel sheets and how it came in handy when Covid hit. More About Alex and Michelle Gage: Business Measurements grew alongside Michelle Gage Interiors as I watched Michelle evolve in the business to more complicated and detailed finances.  I saw her spend hours in Excel keeping tabs on the figures and knew there was a better way.  Computers are smarter than this.  I paid attention to her common inefficiencies and built Excel and internet tools to automatically do the work for her.  No more exporting data from your customer tracking software (Ivy/MyDoma) or Quickbooks.  Once we had this baseline built there were SO many new insightful data views we had access to - projections, trends, open PO $, spend per vendor etc.  This was a little slice of big business intelligence catered to the growing interior designer. Now Business Measurements is a subscription service with expert account setup that automatically gives the designer a day to day financial dashboard to fill the gaps between Ivy/MyDoma reporting and Quickbooks. Connect with Alex and Michelle Gage: Business Measurements for Designers  Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma helps you get paid, generate design packages, create proposals, and both purchase and workroom orders. That’s not all, it also helps with product sourcing, time tracking, and even has a client portal. Find out more about Sara and Tom’s amazingly helpful software by visiting https://www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness Today with Alex and Michelle Gage:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I’m joined by Alex and Michelle Gage of Michelle Gage Interiors. When Alex saw Michelle struggling to get a clear picture of her financials, this engineer built a nice piece of software for her! Today, you’ll find out what this talented and numbers-driven interior designer was missing from her extensive Excel sheets and how it came in handy when Covid hit.

More About Alex and Michelle Gage:

Business Measurements grew alongside Michelle Gage Interiors as I watched Michelle evolve in the business to more complicated and detailed finances.  I saw her spend hours in Excel keeping tabs on the figures and knew there was a better way.  Computers are smarter than this.  I paid attention to her common inefficiencies and built Excel and internet tools to automatically do the work for her.  No more exporting data from your customer tracking software (Ivy/MyDoma) or Quickbooks.

 Once we had this baseline built there were SO many new insightful data views we had access to - projections, trends, open PO $, spend per vendor etc.  This was a little slice of big business intelligence catered to the growing interior designer.

Now Business Measurements is a subscription service with expert account setup that automatically gives the designer a day to day financial dashboard to fill the gaps between Ivy/MyDoma reporting and Quickbooks.

Connect with Alex and Michelle Gage:

Business Measurements for Designers 

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma helps you get paid, generate design packages, create proposals, and both purchase and workroom orders. That’s not all, it also helps with product sourcing, time tracking, and even has a client portal. Find out more about Sara and Tom’s amazingly helpful software by visiting https://www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

]]> 4771 no 616: Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/616-joann-kandrac-and-kelly-kole-onboarding-new-interior-design-clients Today with Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I’m joined by two amazing ladies, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole. When I hear Joann and Kelly talk, and I listen to the way they describe their business, the phrase “a well-oiled machine” comes to mind. But it hardly seems big enough to describe how fine-tuned every step of their process is. Today, they’re sharing some of the secrets behind their success, focusing on the onboarding process and how they carry new clients from initial interest to writing that check!  Pick it apart: [10:20] Joann and Kelly reveal their “secret weapon” for intake conversations, and share why having trusted staff members makes all the difference [19:05] Kelly explains how their qualifying process allows them to approach their consultation with confidence [23:40] Joann and Kelly share why their system for measuring at the consultation [35:48] Joann, Kelly, and LuAnn discuss the “Client Binder” and how it allows for a smooth transition into the next steps of the process [43:48] LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly discuss why it’s important to get the proposal done within three days Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly: “We’ve done enough qualifying on the front end that we do not walk in treating [the consultation] as a meet and greet. We walk in with the approach that we are now working together. You are going to hire us to move forward.” -Kelly “The proposal is a lot about repeating everything the client said back to them.” -Kelly “Anytime I see a designer lamenting that a client has pushed them back on their value, I just say, “You didn’t express it.” Because what you do is so difficult and so highly-detailed that if you can make it clear to a consumer what that is, how could they debate the value of it?” -LuAnn “This is the theme that keeps emerging. You’re listening to your clients and making sure they are understood by you, and then you’re consistently creating conversations, opportunities, and presentations all through your process that keeps reinforcing, “This is what we heard you say.” -LuAnn More About Kandrac and Kole: Voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs. As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala. Connect with Kandrac and Kole Website  Podcast Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter LinkedIn Youtube  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal!   Other Shows Mentioned:  #482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big#492 Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success Tue, 24 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: Onboarding New Interior Design Clients full 616 LuAnn Nigara Today with Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I’m joined by two amazing ladies, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole. When I hear Joann and Kelly talk, and I listen to the way they describe their business, the... Today with Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I’m joined by two amazing ladies, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole. When I hear Joann and Kelly talk, and I listen to the way they describe their business, the phrase “a well-oiled machine” comes to mind. But it hardly seems big enough to describe how fine-tuned every step of their process is. Today, they’re sharing some of the secrets behind their success, focusing on the onboarding process and how they carry new clients from initial interest to writing that check!  Pick it apart: [10:20] Joann and Kelly reveal their “secret weapon” for intake conversations, and share why having trusted staff members makes all the difference [19:05] Kelly explains how their qualifying process allows them to approach their consultation with confidence [23:40] Joann and Kelly share why their system for measuring at the consultation [35:48] Joann, Kelly, and LuAnn discuss the “Client Binder” and how it allows for a smooth transition into the next steps of the process [43:48] LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly discuss why it’s important to get the proposal done within three days Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly: “We’ve done enough qualifying on the front end that we do not walk in treating [the consultation] as a meet and greet. We walk in with the approach that we are now working together. You are going to hire us to move forward.” -Kelly “The proposal is a lot about repeating everything the client said back to them.” -Kelly “Anytime I see a designer lamenting that a client has pushed them back on their value, I just say, “You didn’t express it.” Because what you do is so difficult and so highly-detailed that if you can make it clear to a consumer what that is, how could they debate the value of it?” -LuAnn “This is the theme that keeps emerging. You’re listening to your clients and making sure they are understood by you, and then you’re consistently creating conversations, opportunities, and presentations all through your process that keeps reinforcing, “This is what we heard you say.” -LuAnn More About Kandrac and Kole: Voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs. As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala. Connect with Kandrac and Kole Website  Podcast Instagram   Facebook   Pinterest  Twitter LinkedIn Youtube  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsor: Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal!   Other Shows Mentioned:  #482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big#492 Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success Today with Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I’m joined by two amazing ladies, Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole. When I hear Joann and Kelly talk, and I listen to the way they describe their business, the phrase “a well-oiled machine” comes to mind. But it hardly seems big enough to describe how fine-tuned every step of their process is. Today, they’re sharing some of the secrets behind their success, focusing on the onboarding process and how they carry new clients from initial interest to writing that check! 

Pick it apart:

  • [10:20] Joann and Kelly reveal their “secret weapon” for intake conversations, and share why having trusted staff members makes all the difference
  • [19:05] Kelly explains how their qualifying process allows them to approach their consultation with confidence
  • [23:40] Joann and Kelly share why their system for measuring at the consultation
  • [35:48] Joann, Kelly, and LuAnn discuss the “Client Binder” and how it allows for a smooth transition into the next steps of the process
  • [43:48] LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly discuss why it’s important to get the proposal done within three days

Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn, Joann, and Kelly:

“We’ve done enough qualifying on the front end that we do not walk in treating [the consultation] as a meet and greet. We walk in with the approach that we are now working together. You are going to hire us to move forward.” -Kelly

“The proposal is a lot about repeating everything the client said back to them.” -Kelly

“Anytime I see a designer lamenting that a client has pushed them back on their value, I just say, “You didn’t express it.” Because what you do is so difficult and so highly-detailed that if you can make it clear to a consumer what that is, how could they debate the value of it?” -LuAnn

“This is the theme that keeps emerging. You’re listening to your clients and making sure they are understood by you, and then you’re consistently creating conversations, opportunities, and presentations all through your process that keeps reinforcing, “This is what we heard you say.” -LuAnn

More About Kandrac and Kole:

Voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs. As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala.

Connect with Kandrac and Kole

Website 

Podcast

Instagram  

Facebook  

Pinterest 

Twitter

LinkedIn

Youtube 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal!

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#482 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big#492 Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success

]]> 4360 no 615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/615-power-talk-friday-brad-leavitt-overcoming-resistance-in-the-design-build-process Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Luann welcomes Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction back on the show today. This time, Brad is here to talk about the resistance designers might face from clients and builders in the design-build process. He’s going to teach you how to convey the value you bring to the table to overcome those objections, as well as how to price a build project.    Pick it apart: 23:35 Brad talks about the importance of showing the ROI to clients in hiring a designer 29:57 Luann and Brad discuss why designers need to be able to “ball park” the cost of a building project from the beginning 37:19 Brad gives tips on how to use social media to network and educate yourself about current market values in the build process 48:20 Brad dives into how to persuade reluctant builders that you can bring market value to the table as a designer   More About Brad Leavitt: Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Connect with Brad Leavitt  Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast"  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors: Kravet is a reliable trade partner whether you are sourcing fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture and of course, with Curated Kravet.com you also have lighting and accessories. If you haven't opened your trade account yet, go to Kravet.com It’s so easy to get started, go to kravet.com   Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal! Other Shows Mentioned:  #580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process # 483 Power Talk Friday: Wendy Cohen: PowerHouse Advisors and The PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference Fri, 20 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process full 615 LuAnn Nigara Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Luann welcomes Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction back on the show today. This time, Brad is here to talk about the resistance designers might face from clients and builders in the design-build... Today with Brad Leavitt: Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Luann welcomes Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction back on the show today. This time, Brad is here to talk about the resistance designers might face from clients and builders in the design-build process. He’s going to teach you how to convey the value you bring to the table to overcome those objections, as well as how to price a build project.    Pick it apart: 23:35 Brad talks about the importance of showing the ROI to clients in hiring a designer 29:57 Luann and Brad discuss why designers need to be able to “ball park” the cost of a building project from the beginning 37:19 Brad gives tips on how to use social media to network and educate yourself about current market values in the build process 48:20 Brad dives into how to persuade reluctant builders that you can bring market value to the table as a designer   More About Brad Leavitt: Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Connect with Brad Leavitt  Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast"  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  LinkedIn  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors: Kravet is a reliable trade partner whether you are sourcing fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture and of course, with Curated Kravet.com you also have lighting and accessories. If you haven't opened your trade account yet, go to Kravet.com It’s so easy to get started, go to kravet.com   Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal! Other Shows Mentioned:  #580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders #560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book #542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process # 483 Power Talk Friday: Wendy Cohen: PowerHouse Advisors and The PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference Today with Brad Leavitt:

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Luann welcomes Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction back on the show today. This time, Brad is here to talk about the resistance designers might face from clients and builders in the design-build process. He’s going to teach you how to convey the value you bring to the table to overcome those objections, as well as how to price a build project. 

 

Pick it apart:

  • 23:35 Brad talks about the importance of showing the ROI to clients in hiring a designer
  • 29:57 Luann and Brad discuss why designers need to be able to “ball park” the cost of a building project from the beginning
  • 37:19 Brad gives tips on how to use social media to network and educate yourself about current market values in the build process
  • 48:20 Brad dives into how to persuade reluctant builders that you can bring market value to the table as a designer

 

More About Brad Leavitt:

Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker.

Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.  

Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area.

In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality.

Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports

Connect with Brad Leavitt 

Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast" 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

LinkedIn 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors:

Kravet is a reliable trade partner whether you are sourcing fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture and of course, with Curated Kravet.com you also have lighting and accessories. If you haven't opened your trade account yet, go to Kravet.com It’s so easy to get started, go to kravet.com

 

Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal!

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

# 483 Power Talk Friday: Wendy Cohen: PowerHouse Advisors and The PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference

]]> 3527 no 614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/614-dennese-guadeloupe-rojas-creating-another-revenue-stream-for-your-interior-design-business Today with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I sat down with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas. Dennese has worked in both the residential and commercial sides of the industry, but has recently drawn a line in the sand—she’s only working with general contractors who value and respect her as a designer. But how do you get to that point? How do you build those relationships with general contractors? How do you bring your expertise to the table? How do you prove your value? That’s what we’re talking about today!  Pick it apart: [7:24] Dennese shares her story of transitioning her business during a recession, determined not to close her doors [22:10] LuAnn and Dennese break down the unique challenges of the window treatment business and why you need great partners as a designer [30:30] Dennese explains how she positions herself as a unique expert when dealing with general contractors [40:40] Dennese highlights some of the moving parts in the commercial world that designers might not know about [48:50] LuAnn and Dennese discuss the difficulties and challenges Black designers face Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn and Dennese: “I want to deal with general contractors who understand what I bring to the table as a designer.” -Dennese “The other people are just trying to deliver you a product. I’m trying to use my artistic eye to make sense of what’s trying to be translated into that window.” -Dennese “We sell people, not product. We don’t reduce ourselves to a commodity. We sell our value and what we personally bring to the table.” -LuAnn “[When working with contractors,] most of the time, you have to be willing to carry the bank on the job...if you don’t have the operating capital to be able to tide over a $50,000 project and carry it over 60-90 days, it could bankrupt your business.” -LuAnn “The Pretty” More About Dennese: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas began her career in the design field in 1991 and holds an A.A. in Interior Design from Bauder College in Miami, Florida. Although Dennese resides in the Washington Metropolitan area, her projects have taken her from coast to coast to include the Caribbean. Her motto is consistent and simple: “Maintain authenticity in style and texture, atmosphere is everything...” She brings over twenty years of experience and versatility that comes from dealing with a diversity of projects in both commercial and residential settings. Dennese brings her sense of elegance and impeccable eye for detail to each project. She possesses both the technical and interpersonal skills needed to manage and oversee the entire scope of the design/construction process. These crucial skills make Dennese a true asset to both project and client. Due to her hands-on approach, she is always refining each design until all the details are met with the proper balance in the creative aspect of each project. She describes her relationships with each client as paramount, and her goal is to assist in creating a home that fits the client’s persona, lifestyle and values. The philosophy behind Interiors by Design is the creation of a woman- and black-owned design company that blends the individual's needs and desires with experience and talent to create a stunning home environment. Dennese offers a robust reference list with an impressive portfolio of homes in the Metropolitan area throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Dennese strongly feels that two crucial factors in the client-designer relationship are mutual respect and trust. The client needs to trust the designer, which makes him/her open to professional suggestions. In turn, the designer needs to show the respect due to a client by listening and giving full credence to their desire and goals, both of which are primary. The trust factor is always key. Her clients trust that they will be guided in the right direction, one that adheres to sound design principles while adding that touch of magic. Connect with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors: Kirsch is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They’ve been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. They also provide great resources to educate the design community to help educate you about their product so that you can properly educate your clients and position yourself as the knowledgeable designer you are. Go to kirsch.com to find out more.  Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal! Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business full 614 LuAnn Nigara Today with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I sat down with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas. Dennese has worked in both the residential and commercial sides of the industry, but has recently drawn a line in the... Today with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I sat down with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas. Dennese has worked in both the residential and commercial sides of the industry, but has recently drawn a line in the sand—she’s only working with general contractors who value and respect her as a designer. But how do you get to that point? How do you build those relationships with general contractors? How do you bring your expertise to the table? How do you prove your value? That’s what we’re talking about today!  Pick it apart: [7:24] Dennese shares her story of transitioning her business during a recession, determined not to close her doors [22:10] LuAnn and Dennese break down the unique challenges of the window treatment business and why you need great partners as a designer [30:30] Dennese explains how she positions herself as a unique expert when dealing with general contractors [40:40] Dennese highlights some of the moving parts in the commercial world that designers might not know about [48:50] LuAnn and Dennese discuss the difficulties and challenges Black designers face Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn and Dennese: “I want to deal with general contractors who understand what I bring to the table as a designer.” -Dennese “The other people are just trying to deliver you a product. I’m trying to use my artistic eye to make sense of what’s trying to be translated into that window.” -Dennese “We sell people, not product. We don’t reduce ourselves to a commodity. We sell our value and what we personally bring to the table.” -LuAnn “[When working with contractors,] most of the time, you have to be willing to carry the bank on the job...if you don’t have the operating capital to be able to tide over a $50,000 project and carry it over 60-90 days, it could bankrupt your business.” -LuAnn “The Pretty” More About Dennese: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas began her career in the design field in 1991 and holds an A.A. in Interior Design from Bauder College in Miami, Florida. Although Dennese resides in the Washington Metropolitan area, her projects have taken her from coast to coast to include the Caribbean. Her motto is consistent and simple: “Maintain authenticity in style and texture, atmosphere is everything...” She brings over twenty years of experience and versatility that comes from dealing with a diversity of projects in both commercial and residential settings. Dennese brings her sense of elegance and impeccable eye for detail to each project. She possesses both the technical and interpersonal skills needed to manage and oversee the entire scope of the design/construction process. These crucial skills make Dennese a true asset to both project and client. Due to her hands-on approach, she is always refining each design until all the details are met with the proper balance in the creative aspect of each project. She describes her relationships with each client as paramount, and her goal is to assist in creating a home that fits the client’s persona, lifestyle and values. The philosophy behind Interiors by Design is the creation of a woman- and black-owned design company that blends the individual's needs and desires with experience and talent to create a stunning home environment. Dennese offers a robust reference list with an impressive portfolio of homes in the Metropolitan area throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Dennese strongly feels that two crucial factors in the client-designer relationship are mutual respect and trust. The client needs to trust the designer, which makes him/her open to professional suggestions. In turn, the designer needs to show the respect due to a client by listening and giving full credence to their desire and goals, both of which are primary. The trust factor is always key. Her clients trust that they will be guided in the right direction, one that adheres to sound design principles while adding that touch of magic. Connect with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas Website  Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob   Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!   Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast   A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors: Kirsch is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They’ve been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. They also provide great resources to educate the design community to help educate you about their product so that you can properly educate your clients and position yourself as the knowledgeable designer you are. Go to kirsch.com to find out more.  Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal! Today with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business!® Today, I sat down with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas. Dennese has worked in both the residential and commercial sides of the industry, but has recently drawn a line in the sand—she’s only working with general contractors who value and respect her as a designer. But how do you get to that point? How do you build those relationships with general contractors? How do you bring your expertise to the table? How do you prove your value? That’s what we’re talking about today! 

Pick it apart:

  • [7:24] Dennese shares her story of transitioning her business during a recession, determined not to close her doors
  • [22:10] LuAnn and Dennese break down the unique challenges of the window treatment business and why you need great partners as a designer
  • [30:30] Dennese explains how she positions herself as a unique expert when dealing with general contractors
  • [40:40] Dennese highlights some of the moving parts in the commercial world that designers might not know about
  • [48:50] LuAnn and Dennese discuss the difficulties and challenges Black designers face

Ah-Ha moments from LuAnn and Dennese:

“I want to deal with general contractors who understand what I bring to the table as a designer.” -Dennese

“The other people are just trying to deliver you a product. I’m trying to use my artistic eye to make sense of what’s trying to be translated into that window.” -Dennese

“We sell people, not product. We don’t reduce ourselves to a commodity. We sell our value and what we personally bring to the table.” -LuAnn

“[When working with contractors,] most of the time, you have to be willing to carry the bank on the job...if you don’t have the operating capital to be able to tide over a $50,000 project and carry it over 60-90 days, it could bankrupt your business.” -LuAnn

“The Pretty”



More About Dennese:

Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas began her career in the design field in 1991 and holds an A.A. in Interior Design from Bauder College in Miami, Florida. Although Dennese resides in the Washington Metropolitan area, her projects have taken her from coast to coast to include the Caribbean. Her motto is consistent and simple: “Maintain authenticity in style and texture, atmosphere is everything...” She brings over twenty years of experience and versatility that comes from dealing with a diversity of projects in both commercial and residential settings. Dennese brings her sense of elegance and impeccable eye for detail to each project. She possesses both the technical and interpersonal skills needed to manage and oversee the entire scope of the design/construction process. These crucial skills make Dennese a true asset to both project and client. Due to her hands-on approach, she is always refining each design until all the details are met with the proper balance in the creative aspect of each project. She describes her relationships with each client as paramount, and her goal is to assist in creating a home that fits the client’s persona, lifestyle and values. The philosophy behind Interiors by Design is the creation of a woman- and black-owned design company that blends the individual's needs and desires with experience and talent to create a stunning home environment. Dennese offers a robust reference list with an impressive portfolio of homes in the Metropolitan area throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Dennese strongly feels that two crucial factors in the client-designer relationship are mutual respect and trust. The client needs to trust the designer, which makes him/her open to professional suggestions. In turn, the designer needs to show the respect due to a client by listening and giving full credence to their desire and goals, both of which are primary. The trust factor is always key. Her clients trust that they will be guided in the right direction, one that adheres to sound design principles while adding that touch of magic.

Connect with Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

 

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

 

A Big THANK YOU to today’s podcast sponsors:

Kirsch is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They’ve been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. They also provide great resources to educate the design community to help educate you about their product so that you can properly educate your clients and position yourself as the knowledgeable designer you are. Go to kirsch.com to find out more. 

Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects. Mydoma Studio is bringing in a Black Friday deal that you cannot miss out on! From November 26th, all the way up to the 30th, you can get 25% off your annual subscription of Mydoma Studio - which works out to a whole 4 months free! There’s no sale bigger than this, so head on over to mydomastudio.com/blackfriday to get this steal of a deal!

]]> 4377 no 613: PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/613-ptf-angela-kristen-taylor-the-productivity-in-your-business-starts-with-your-emotions Today with Angela Kristen Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk to productivity expert Angela Kristen Taylor. Angela is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s also the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators, to work together, learn together, and grow together. Tune in to hear what Angela has to say about unlocking productivity by starting with your emotions and experiences.    More About Angela Kristen Taylor: Angela Kristen Taylor is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s a licensed realtor, certified spiritual healer, integrative nutrition health coach, mom to five kids (and two giant dogs), Disney cartoon & super-hero aficionado, and the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators to work together, learn together, and grow together.    Connect with Angela Kristen Taylor The Limitless Collaborative Website Productive Souls Website Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn YouTube What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Have you checked out their innovative program, Kravet ICreate? It makes it easier than ever to customize your furniture. You can design chests, tables, ottomans, benches, beds, and upholstery in just a few clicks on Kravet.com. is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!   Monogram is committed to redefining the world of luxury appliances, which they believe comes down to every little detail. Monogram isn’t just focused on providing the best luxury appliances. They are also determined to provide the best resources to support their trade partners, with a national support team dedicated to offering assistance to designers. Learn more at monogram.com/luann    Other Shows Mentioned:  #577 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat #385 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist     Fri, 13 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions full 613 LuAnn Nigara Today with Angela Kristen Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk to productivity expert Angela Kristen Taylor. Angela is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales... Today with Angela Kristen Taylor:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk to productivity expert Angela Kristen Taylor. Angela is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s also the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators, to work together, learn together, and grow together. Tune in to hear what Angela has to say about unlocking productivity by starting with your emotions and experiences.    More About Angela Kristen Taylor: Angela Kristen Taylor is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s a licensed realtor, certified spiritual healer, integrative nutrition health coach, mom to five kids (and two giant dogs), Disney cartoon & super-hero aficionado, and the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators to work together, learn together, and grow together.    Connect with Angela Kristen Taylor The Limitless Collaborative Website Productive Souls Website Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn YouTube What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet: Have you checked out their innovative program, Kravet ICreate? It makes it easier than ever to customize your furniture. You can design chests, tables, ottomans, benches, beds, and upholstery in just a few clicks on Kravet.com. is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!   Monogram is committed to redefining the world of luxury appliances, which they believe comes down to every little detail. Monogram isn’t just focused on providing the best luxury appliances. They are also determined to provide the best resources to support their trade partners, with a national support team dedicated to offering assistance to designers. Learn more at monogram.com/luann    Other Shows Mentioned:  #577 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat #385 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist     Today with Angela Kristen Taylor: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk to productivity expert Angela Kristen Taylor. Angela is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s also the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators, to work together, learn together, and grow together. Tune in to hear what Angela has to say about unlocking productivity by starting with your emotions and experiences. 

 

More About Angela Kristen Taylor:

Angela Kristen Taylor is an integrative productivity expert who helps ambitious entrepreneurs and sales professionals overcome their own internal chaos so they can create the life and business they want. She’s a licensed realtor, certified spiritual healer, integrative nutrition health coach, mom to five kids (and two giant dogs), Disney cartoon & super-hero aficionado, and the creator of The Limitless Collaborative, a one-of-a-kind virtual reality community for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators to work together, learn together, and grow together. 

 

Connect with Angela Kristen Taylor

The Limitless Collaborative Website

Productive Souls Website

Instagram  

Facebook  

LinkedIn

YouTube

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet: Have you checked out their innovative program, Kravet ICreate? It makes it easier than ever to customize your furniture. You can design chests, tables, ottomans, benches, beds, and upholstery in just a few clicks on Kravet.com. is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!  

Monogram is committed to redefining the world of luxury appliances, which they believe comes down to every little detail. Monogram isn’t just focused on providing the best luxury appliances. They are also determined to provide the best resources to support their trade partners, with a national support team dedicated to offering assistance to designers. Learn more at monogram.com/luann 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#577 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat

#385 Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist

 

 

]]> 3517 no 612: Jennifer Stoner: The Power of the Logic-Based Conversation in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/612-jennifer-stoner-the-power-of-the-logic-based-conversation-in-interior-design-0 Today with Jennifer Stoner:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I sat down with interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Litigator turned interior designer? How’s that for a career change? Jennifer shows us how she uses skills she honed as a lawyer to guide her clients through their design project. She uses simple if/then logic as a powerful tool to get her clients to see how all the components of the project fit into the big picture! More About Jennifer Stoner: Jennifer Stoner is an award-winning interior designer specializing in creating beautiful "Conception to Completion" design projects for discerning clients.   Based in Richmond, Virginia, Jennifer’s services have now expanded to projects across the country. Whether in the process of building a new home, tackling a renovation or transforming your interiors, Jennifer and her team provide high-level services to both manage project details and effectively execute a plan of action.  Jennifer's talents have also been proven in the commercial realm, creating sophisticated and welcoming public spaces.  Jennifer’s passion is evident in the new construction or renovation process.  She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product. Jennifer has also established a reputation for showmanship by adding jewelry in the way of sophisticated furnishings, beautiful window treatments, luxurious rugs and all of the details that elevate a home’s presence. Jennifer’s clients have included a vast array of entrepreneurs, physicians, attorneys, developers, celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs. Her work has been featured on HGTV and TLC, as well as been published in several shelter magazines such as Traditional Home Magazine, Home & Design Magazine, Richmond Magazine and R-Home Magazine, among others. She has been named as one of America's Top 100 Influencers in the Design Industry. Connect with Jennifer Stoner Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!   Monogram now has virtual training on their products - these are one hour product demonstrations so you can get a feel for the product, become the expert on it, and determine if it’s a good fit for your projects. Learn more by going to Monogram.com/luann. Other Shows Mentioned:  #594 Reena Philpot #454, #547 Jamie Lieberman #6 Erika Ward #203, 330, 601 Darla Powell #8 Barbara Ostrom Tue, 10 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Jennifer Stoner: The Power of the Logic-Based Conversation in Interior Design full 612 LuAnn Nigara Today with Jennifer Stoner:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I sat down with interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Litigator turned interior designer? How’s that for a career change? Jennifer shows us how she uses skills she honed as... Today with Jennifer Stoner:  Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I sat down with interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Litigator turned interior designer? How’s that for a career change? Jennifer shows us how she uses skills she honed as a lawyer to guide her clients through their design project. She uses simple if/then logic as a powerful tool to get her clients to see how all the components of the project fit into the big picture! More About Jennifer Stoner: Jennifer Stoner is an award-winning interior designer specializing in creating beautiful "Conception to Completion" design projects for discerning clients.   Based in Richmond, Virginia, Jennifer’s services have now expanded to projects across the country. Whether in the process of building a new home, tackling a renovation or transforming your interiors, Jennifer and her team provide high-level services to both manage project details and effectively execute a plan of action.  Jennifer's talents have also been proven in the commercial realm, creating sophisticated and welcoming public spaces.  Jennifer’s passion is evident in the new construction or renovation process.  She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product. Jennifer has also established a reputation for showmanship by adding jewelry in the way of sophisticated furnishings, beautiful window treatments, luxurious rugs and all of the details that elevate a home’s presence. Jennifer’s clients have included a vast array of entrepreneurs, physicians, attorneys, developers, celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs. Her work has been featured on HGTV and TLC, as well as been published in several shelter magazines such as Traditional Home Magazine, Home & Design Magazine, Richmond Magazine and R-Home Magazine, among others. She has been named as one of America's Top 100 Influencers in the Design Industry. Connect with Jennifer Stoner Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest  What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!   Monogram now has virtual training on their products - these are one hour product demonstrations so you can get a feel for the product, become the expert on it, and determine if it’s a good fit for your projects. Learn more by going to Monogram.com/luann. Other Shows Mentioned:  #594 Reena Philpot #454, #547 Jamie Lieberman #6 Erika Ward #203, 330, 601 Darla Powell #8 Barbara Ostrom Today with Jennifer Stoner: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Today, I sat down with interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Litigator turned interior designer? How’s that for a career change? Jennifer shows us how she uses skills she honed as a lawyer to guide her clients through their design project. She uses simple if/then logic as a powerful tool to get her clients to see how all the components of the project fit into the big picture!

More About Jennifer Stoner:

Jennifer Stoner is an award-winning interior designer specializing in creating beautiful "Conception to Completion" design projects for discerning clients.   Based in Richmond, Virginia, Jennifer’s services have now expanded to projects across the country. Whether in the process of building a new home, tackling a renovation or transforming your interiors, Jennifer and her team provide high-level services to both manage project details and effectively execute a plan of action.  Jennifer's talents have also been proven in the commercial realm, creating sophisticated and welcoming public spaces. 

Jennifer’s passion is evident in the new construction or renovation process.  She enjoys being an integral member of the client’s design-build team from the very beginning, believing that the collaborative efforts of the architect, builder and interior designer will ultimately lead to the smoothest process for her clients and the best possible finished product. Jennifer has also established a reputation for showmanship by adding jewelry in the way of sophisticated furnishings, beautiful window treatments, luxurious rugs and all of the details that elevate a home’s presence.

Jennifer’s clients have included a vast array of entrepreneurs, physicians, attorneys, developers, celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs. Her work has been featured on HGTV and TLC, as well as been published in several shelter magazines such as Traditional Home Magazine, Home & Design Magazine, Richmond Magazine and R-Home Magazine, among others. She has been named as one of America's Top 100 Influencers in the Design Industry.

Connect with Jennifer Stoner

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma is the best software platform out there for organizing your design business. Time tracking, quick books integration, client and vendor communications. Create efficiencies and take back your time. Designed by an interior designer for interior designers. Get 20% off your 1st 3 months when you go to mydomastdudio.com/awelldesigendbusiness. 20% off your 1st 3 months!  

Monogram now has virtual training on their products - these are one hour product demonstrations so you can get a feel for the product, become the expert on it, and determine if it’s a good fit for your projects. Learn more by going to Monogram.com/luann.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#594 Reena Philpot

#454, #547 Jamie Lieberman

#6 Erika Ward

#203, 330, 601 Darla Powell

#8 Barbara Ostrom

]]> 4429 no 611: Seasonal Living: An Interior Design Virtual Showhouse Like No Other http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/610-seasonal-living-an-interior-design-virtual-showhouse-like-no-other Today with Seasonal Living:  Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, I meet with two design industry powerhouses, Gary Pettitt of Seasonal Living and Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership.  Seasonal Living is an award-winning Texas-based manufacturer of modern indoor/outdoor furniture, lighting, planters, and decorative accessories. Gary is also the publisher of Seasonal Living, a consumer-facing digital lifestyle magazine.  Gary recently teamed up with Leslie, a marketing professional, to help him create the world’s first luxury virtual showhouse featuring both augmented reality and virtual reality capabilities. You may know Leslie! She has been on the show twice before, and when she told me about this virtual showhouse, I was hooked. Listen to today’s episode to hear Gary and Leslie explain what this showhouse experience is all about and how we can get in on the fun launch party that’s coming up very soon! More about Seasonal Living Virtual Showhouse  Here’s the information you to join in the fun: Register for FREE to attend the virtual showhouse by visiting Bit.ly/DesignerShowhouse or SeasonalLiving.com/designer-showhouse-registration. To put an ad in the showhouse edition of Seasonal Living digital magazine, email editor@seasonaliving.com. And you’ll want to get your free subscription to Seasonal Living magazine at SeasonalLiving.com/BonusMag. I will be hosting this amazing event, and I’d love to see you there too! We start at 6 pm Eastern on December 3rd, 2020. It will only be about 30-45 minutes and after this launch party, we’ll have the opportunity to tour the full virtual showhouse and see what our talented friends have been up to. See you there! Connect with Seasonal Living Register for Designer Virtual Showhouse Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest YouTube Other Shows Mentioned:  #32 #540 #242 #20 #568 #406 #55 #214 #441 #50 #6 #278 #148 #526 #329 #452   Sat, 07 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Seasonal Living: An Interior Design Virtual Showhouse Like No Other full 611 LuAnn Nigara Today with Seasonal Living:  Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, I meet with two design industry powerhouses, Gary Pettitt of Seasonal Living and Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership.  Seasonal Living is an award-winning... Today with Seasonal Living:  Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, I meet with two design industry powerhouses, Gary Pettitt of Seasonal Living and Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership.  Seasonal Living is an award-winning Texas-based manufacturer of modern indoor/outdoor furniture, lighting, planters, and decorative accessories. Gary is also the publisher of Seasonal Living, a consumer-facing digital lifestyle magazine.  Gary recently teamed up with Leslie, a marketing professional, to help him create the world’s first luxury virtual showhouse featuring both augmented reality and virtual reality capabilities. You may know Leslie! She has been on the show twice before, and when she told me about this virtual showhouse, I was hooked. Listen to today’s episode to hear Gary and Leslie explain what this showhouse experience is all about and how we can get in on the fun launch party that’s coming up very soon! More about Seasonal Living Virtual Showhouse  Here’s the information you to join in the fun: Register for FREE to attend the virtual showhouse by visiting Bit.ly/DesignerShowhouse or SeasonalLiving.com/designer-showhouse-registration. To put an ad in the showhouse edition of Seasonal Living digital magazine, email editor@seasonaliving.com. And you’ll want to get your free subscription to Seasonal Living magazine at SeasonalLiving.com/BonusMag. I will be hosting this amazing event, and I’d love to see you there too! We start at 6 pm Eastern on December 3rd, 2020. It will only be about 30-45 minutes and after this launch party, we’ll have the opportunity to tour the full virtual showhouse and see what our talented friends have been up to. See you there! Connect with Seasonal Living Register for Designer Virtual Showhouse Website  Instagram  Facebook   Pinterest YouTube Other Shows Mentioned:  #32 #540 #242 #20 #568 #406 #55 #214 #441 #50 #6 #278 #148 #526 #329 #452   Today with Seasonal Living: 

Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today, I meet with two design industry powerhouses, Gary Pettitt of Seasonal Living and Leslie Carothers of Savour Partnership. 

Seasonal Living is an award-winning Texas-based manufacturer of modern indoor/outdoor furniture, lighting, planters, and decorative accessories. Gary is also the publisher of Seasonal Living, a consumer-facing digital lifestyle magazine. 

Gary recently teamed up with Leslie, a marketing professional, to help him create the world’s first luxury virtual showhouse featuring both augmented reality and virtual reality capabilities.

You may know Leslie! She has been on the show twice before, and when she told me about this virtual showhouse, I was hooked. Listen to today’s episode to hear Gary and Leslie explain what this showhouse experience is all about and how we can get in on the fun launch party that’s coming up very soon!

More about Seasonal Living Virtual Showhouse 

Here’s the information you to join in the fun:

I will be hosting this amazing event, and I’d love to see you there too! We start at 6 pm Eastern on December 3rd, 2020. It will only be about 30-45 minutes and after this launch party, we’ll have the opportunity to tour the full virtual showhouse and see what our talented friends have been up to. See you there!

Connect with Seasonal Living

Register for Designer Virtual Showhouse

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook  

Pinterest

YouTube

Other Shows Mentioned: 

  • #32
  • #540
  • #242
  • #20
  • #568
  • #406
  • #55
  • #214
  • #441
  • #50
  • #6
  • #278
  • #148
  • #526
  • #329
  • #452

 

]]> 4826 no 610: Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/611-window-treatment-friday-listener-questions Today with Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, are doing something a little different. Today, LuAnn and Vita are answering listener questions. That's right, they are teaming up to bring you DOUBLE the expertise and answer window treatment questions they have been receiving from listeners! More about Vita Vygovska Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website  Instagram  Facebook   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch has been in business for more than 100 years! There are so many tried and true products of theirs that I still trust and choose over and over again after all these years. Go to Kirsch.com, find your local distributor, and get your catalogs and samples so you can specify Kirsch for your next project. Article makes it easy for you to help your clients get their office, bedroom, dining room, or outdoor space looking beautiful. Sign up for your trade acct today at welldesigned.article.com       Fri, 06 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions full 610 LuAnn Nigara Today with Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, are doing something a little different. Today, LuAnn... Today with Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, are doing something a little different. Today, LuAnn and Vita are answering listener questions. That's right, they are teaming up to bring you DOUBLE the expertise and answer window treatment questions they have been receiving from listeners! More about Vita Vygovska Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska Website  Instagram  Facebook   What's new with LuAnn Nigara Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch has been in business for more than 100 years! There are so many tried and true products of theirs that I still trust and choose over and over again after all these years. Go to Kirsch.com, find your local distributor, and get your catalogs and samples so you can specify Kirsch for your next project. Article makes it easy for you to help your clients get their office, bedroom, dining room, or outdoor space looking beautiful. Sign up for your trade acct today at welldesigned.article.com       Today with Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, are doing something a little different. Today, LuAnn and Vita are answering listener questions. That's right, they are teaming up to bring you DOUBLE the expertise and answer window treatment questions they have been receiving from listeners!

More about Vita Vygovska

Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

Connect with Vita Vygovska

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook

 

What's new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch has been in business for more than 100 years! There are so many tried and true products of theirs that I still trust and choose over and over again after all these years. Go to Kirsch.com, find your local distributor, and get your catalogs and samples so you can specify Kirsch for your next project.

Article makes it easy for you to help your clients get their office, bedroom, dining room, or outdoor space looking beautiful. Sign up for your trade acct today at welldesigned.article.com  

 

 

]]> 2691 no 609: Lisa Haude: Rebranding to Express Who You Really Are http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/609-lisa-haude-rebranding-to-express-who-you-really-are Today with Lisa Haude: Lisa Haude founded Paradigm Design Group in 2001. In 2020, Lisa rebranded her Houston six-person hospitality design firm to become PDG Studios and created a new luxury residential design division named Bella’s Studio. Put yourself in Lisa’s shoes. You are revving up for a big rebrand, and then the unthinkable happens. You find yourself in the midst of a global pandemic! Lisa’s story is like so many designers and business owners in the year 2020. It is a story of the dedication and resilience of a business owner in the face of unexpected, and unprecedented events. You’ll want to hear what prompted her rebrand, what she did about launching her new divisions once the pandemic hit, and what guided her through it all. More About Lisa Haude: Lisa A. Haude founded PDG Studios (formerly Paradigm Design Group) in 2001 and continues to prove that she is one of the top industry leaders in her field. A storyteller in her own right, Lisa creates truly one-of-a-kind spaces that speak authentically to the lifestyles and cultures of the clients PDG Studios designs for, celebrating unique histories all around the US. Known for her creative and unique approach to design, as well as her admirable ability to lead her team with grace, she and her team create memorable spaces that evoke beauty, luxury and comfort, and a sense of familiarity, seamlessly bridging the gap between hospitality and home life. Connect with Lisa Haude: Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest What's New with LuAnn Nigara: Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch eileenbhahn.com/designers www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio brings you orders, invoices and online payments, design packages, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to start your free trial. Jaipur Living offers the finest handmade rugs in a variety of price points. Jaipur Living is committed to the craftsmanship and artfulness of handmade rugs, and to keeping the age-old art alive. Register here to become a design partner.   Tue, 03 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Lisa Haude: Rebranding to Express Who You Really Are full 609 LuAnn Nigara Today with Lisa Haude: Lisa Haude founded Paradigm Design Group in 2001. In 2020, Lisa rebranded her Houston six-person hospitality design firm to become PDG Studios and created a new luxury residential design division named Bella’s Studio. Put... Today with Lisa Haude: Lisa Haude founded Paradigm Design Group in 2001. In 2020, Lisa rebranded her Houston six-person hospitality design firm to become PDG Studios and created a new luxury residential design division named Bella’s Studio. Put yourself in Lisa’s shoes. You are revving up for a big rebrand, and then the unthinkable happens. You find yourself in the midst of a global pandemic! Lisa’s story is like so many designers and business owners in the year 2020. It is a story of the dedication and resilience of a business owner in the face of unexpected, and unprecedented events. You’ll want to hear what prompted her rebrand, what she did about launching her new divisions once the pandemic hit, and what guided her through it all. More About Lisa Haude: Lisa A. Haude founded PDG Studios (formerly Paradigm Design Group) in 2001 and continues to prove that she is one of the top industry leaders in her field. A storyteller in her own right, Lisa creates truly one-of-a-kind spaces that speak authentically to the lifestyles and cultures of the clients PDG Studios designs for, celebrating unique histories all around the US. Known for her creative and unique approach to design, as well as her admirable ability to lead her team with grace, she and her team create memorable spaces that evoke beauty, luxury and comfort, and a sense of familiarity, seamlessly bridging the gap between hospitality and home life. Connect with Lisa Haude: Website  Instagram   Facebook  Pinterest What's New with LuAnn Nigara: Luannlive.com luannnigara.com/launch eileenbhahn.com/designers www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.  To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Mydoma Studio brings you orders, invoices and online payments, design packages, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to start your free trial. Jaipur Living offers the finest handmade rugs in a variety of price points. Jaipur Living is committed to the craftsmanship and artfulness of handmade rugs, and to keeping the age-old art alive. Register here to become a design partner.   Today with Lisa Haude:

Lisa Haude founded Paradigm Design Group in 2001. In 2020, Lisa rebranded her Houston six-person hospitality design firm to become PDG Studios and created a new luxury residential design division named Bella’s Studio.

Put yourself in Lisa’s shoes. You are revving up for a big rebrand, and then the unthinkable happens. You find yourself in the midst of a global pandemic! Lisa’s story is like so many designers and business owners in the year 2020. It is a story of the dedication and resilience of a business owner in the face of unexpected, and unprecedented events. You’ll want to hear what prompted her rebrand, what she did about launching her new divisions once the pandemic hit, and what guided her through it all.

More About Lisa Haude:

Lisa A. Haude founded PDG Studios (formerly Paradigm Design Group) in 2001 and continues to prove that she is one of the top industry leaders in her field. A storyteller in her own right, Lisa creates truly one-of-a-kind spaces that speak authentically to the lifestyles and cultures of the clients PDG Studios designs for, celebrating unique histories all around the US. Known for her creative and unique approach to design, as well as her admirable ability to lead her team with grace, she and her team create memorable spaces that evoke beauty, luxury and comfort, and a sense of familiarity, seamlessly bridging the gap between hospitality and home life.

Connect with Lisa Haude:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

Pinterest

What's New with LuAnn Nigara:

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

eileenbhahn.com/designers

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. 

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma Studio brings you orders, invoices and online payments, design packages, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to start your free trial.

Jaipur Living offers the finest handmade rugs in a variety of price points. Jaipur Living is committed to the craftsmanship and artfulness of handmade rugs, and to keeping the age-old art alive. Register here to become a design partner.

 

]]> 3889 no 608: Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/608-power-talk-friday-christopher-mitchell-leverage-industry-partners-to-improve-your-client-experience Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Chris Wallace, co-founder, and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams. Chris truly believes in providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better, and getting all of your industry partners on board with that idea, or finding partners that already are. Listen in to hear what Chris has to say about leveraging those industry partnerships to do that, so that the customer experience is a focus at every single level. Chris is the Co-Founder and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams. At InnerView, Chris draws from his nearly 20 years of sales, marketing, and corporate leadership to help companies engage their frontline teams in new ways, producing improved customer experiences and better financial results. Beyond his work with clients, Chris is able to apply his passions as a teacher and thought leader. He has taught as an adjunct MBA professor at Temple’s Fox School of Business and has been published in outlets such as Harvard Business Review and Ad Age. He was also recently named to the Forbes Agency Council. Chris received a B.A. in Public Relations from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School and an MBA from Temple University. He lives outside Philadelphia with his family. Show Highlights: Chris’s passion is to get the entire value-chain, or industry, focused on the end user, which is the customer. Chris illustrates his perspective with a story around his brother and sister-in-law. There are two approaches to sales and marketing: the “old” product-focused way, and the  “21st Century Sales and Marketing” way, which goes beyond the product you offer and focuses on providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better. Chris addresses how designers benefit from asking for this better way of marketing from their brands. Chris shares his philosophy on belief, confidence, and pride. “21st Century Sales and Marketing” is about making your client’s life be easier, it’s about helping them be more successful, and it’s about understanding their needs. Designers should communicate what their needs are by documenting what they’re wanting to deliver to the customer, and helping to educate their industry partners on how they can help with this process. Ask for the things that are going to help make you successful! Chris’s strategies on assessing the industry partners you’re doing business with. Chris shares his thoughts and tips on virtual consultations, how augmented reality can be leveraged to drive better design, and other fascinating tools of the trade. Old-school isn’t cutting it anymore because you can’t meet the modern customer’s needs. Exciting Windows is one of LuAnn’s forward-thinking vendors. Connect with Chris! Website Instagram LinkedIn Links / Resources: Hey, window treatment friends! Learn more about Exciting Windows and tell the Steves that LuAnn sent you! Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Investment: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet’s popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Get started on building your custom pieces at kravet Leejofa. Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Episodes mentioned: John Dupra #329   Fri, 30 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Christopher Wallace: Leverage Industry Partners to Improve Your Client Experience full 608 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Chris Wallace, co-founder, and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Chris Wallace, co-founder, and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams. Chris truly believes in providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better, and getting all of your industry partners on board with that idea, or finding partners that already are. Listen in to hear what Chris has to say about leveraging those industry partnerships to do that, so that the customer experience is a focus at every single level. Chris is the Co-Founder and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams. At InnerView, Chris draws from his nearly 20 years of sales, marketing, and corporate leadership to help companies engage their frontline teams in new ways, producing improved customer experiences and better financial results. Beyond his work with clients, Chris is able to apply his passions as a teacher and thought leader. He has taught as an adjunct MBA professor at Temple’s Fox School of Business and has been published in outlets such as Harvard Business Review and Ad Age. He was also recently named to the Forbes Agency Council. Chris received a B.A. in Public Relations from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School and an MBA from Temple University. He lives outside Philadelphia with his family. Show Highlights: Chris’s passion is to get the entire value-chain, or industry, focused on the end user, which is the customer. Chris illustrates his perspective with a story around his brother and sister-in-law. There are two approaches to sales and marketing: the “old” product-focused way, and the  “21st Century Sales and Marketing” way, which goes beyond the product you offer and focuses on providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better. Chris addresses how designers benefit from asking for this better way of marketing from their brands. Chris shares his philosophy on belief, confidence, and pride. “21st Century Sales and Marketing” is about making your client’s life be easier, it’s about helping them be more successful, and it’s about understanding their needs. Designers should communicate what their needs are by documenting what they’re wanting to deliver to the customer, and helping to educate their industry partners on how they can help with this process. Ask for the things that are going to help make you successful! Chris’s strategies on assessing the industry partners you’re doing business with. Chris shares his thoughts and tips on virtual consultations, how augmented reality can be leveraged to drive better design, and other fascinating tools of the trade. Old-school isn’t cutting it anymore because you can’t meet the modern customer’s needs. Exciting Windows is one of LuAnn’s forward-thinking vendors. Connect with Chris! Website Instagram LinkedIn Links / Resources: Hey, window treatment friends! Learn more about Exciting Windows and tell the Steves that LuAnn sent you! Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Investment: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet’s popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Get started on building your custom pieces at kravet Leejofa. Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Episodes mentioned: John Dupra #329   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Chris Wallace, co-founder, and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams.

Chris truly believes in providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better, and getting all of your industry partners on board with that idea, or finding partners that already are.

Listen in to hear what Chris has to say about leveraging those industry partnerships to do that, so that the customer experience is a focus at every single level.

Chris is the Co-Founder and President of InnerView, a marketing consulting firm that helps companies align their brand and product stories with their customer-facing teams. At InnerView, Chris draws from his nearly 20 years of sales, marketing, and corporate leadership to help companies engage their frontline teams in new ways, producing improved customer experiences and better financial results. Beyond his work with clients, Chris is able to apply his passions as a teacher and thought leader. He has taught as an adjunct MBA professor at Temple’s Fox School of Business and has been published in outlets such as Harvard Business Review and Ad Age. He was also recently named to the Forbes Agency Council. Chris received a B.A. in Public Relations from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School and an MBA from Temple University. He lives outside Philadelphia with his family.

Show Highlights:

  • Chris’s passion is to get the entire value-chain, or industry, focused on the end user, which is the customer.
  • Chris illustrates his perspective with a story around his brother and sister-in-law.
  • There are two approaches to sales and marketing: the “old” product-focused way, and the  “21st Century Sales and Marketing” way, which goes beyond the product you offer and focuses on providing value to your clients by meeting their needs and making their lives better.
  • Chris addresses how designers benefit from asking for this better way of marketing from their brands.
  • Chris shares his philosophy on belief, confidence, and pride.
  • “21st Century Sales and Marketing” is about making your client’s life be easier, it’s about helping them be more successful, and it’s about understanding their needs.
  • Designers should communicate what their needs are by documenting what they’re wanting to deliver to the customer, and helping to educate their industry partners on how they can help with this process.
  • Ask for the things that are going to help make you successful!
  • Chris’s strategies on assessing the industry partners you’re doing business with.
  • Chris shares his thoughts and tips on virtual consultations, how augmented reality can be leveraged to drive better design, and other fascinating tools of the trade.
  • Old-school isn’t cutting it anymore because you can’t meet the modern customer’s needs.
  • Exciting Windows is one of LuAnn’s forward-thinking vendors.

Connect with Chris!

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Links / Resources:

Hey, window treatment friends! Learn more about Exciting Windows and tell the Steves that LuAnn sent you!

Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year!

Investment: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet’s popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Get started on building your custom pieces at kravet Leejofa.

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch

Episodes mentioned:

John Dupra #329

 

]]> 4271 no 607: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/607-project-management-with-specific-deliverables-and-deadlines Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Sara Brennan rejoins the show today and she’s going to be sharing how she is managing the recent influx of new clients as she scales her business, how very critical organization is to the process, and a breakdown of the services she offers. We’ll also be touching on her upcoming Process Leads to Profit course, so please join us for some great takeaway ideas to streamline your own business and to learn more about how you can really drill down into what Sara calls “the Four P’s of design: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits”, to take YOUR profits to the next level. Sara is a co-author in the upcoming second volume of A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts. She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: Sara has developed a mapped-out process that not only gets compliments from her clients, but she’s even had clients asking her to consult with THEIR clients! Sara details how her clients are set up with the different levels of design services she offers, as not everyone wants or can afford full-service design. A storyboard with different designs and a discussion with what the client hates or loves about them is one unique system that Sara uses. Having the numbers conversation upfront is super important. Sara addresses how to respond to client trust issues. How to stop clients from ‘shopping’ you. Sara’s business model has two sources of revenue: the design fee and the furnishings as a retailer. Sara’s tips when speaking to vendors. Reverse-engineering to make sure that you can be profitable with your model will instill confidence in how you speak to people and what you’re able to offer them. Connect with Sara! Website Instagram Facebook Links : Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Investment: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other shows mentioned: #524 #514 #463   Thu, 29 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines full 607 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Sara Brennan rejoins the show today and she’s going to be sharing how she is managing the recent influx of new clients as she scales her business, how very critical organization is to the process, and a breakdown... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Sara Brennan rejoins the show today and she’s going to be sharing how she is managing the recent influx of new clients as she scales her business, how very critical organization is to the process, and a breakdown of the services she offers. We’ll also be touching on her upcoming Process Leads to Profit course, so please join us for some great takeaway ideas to streamline your own business and to learn more about how you can really drill down into what Sara calls “the Four P’s of design: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits”, to take YOUR profits to the next level. Sara is a co-author in the upcoming second volume of A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts. She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: Sara has developed a mapped-out process that not only gets compliments from her clients, but she’s even had clients asking her to consult with THEIR clients! Sara details how her clients are set up with the different levels of design services she offers, as not everyone wants or can afford full-service design. A storyboard with different designs and a discussion with what the client hates or loves about them is one unique system that Sara uses. Having the numbers conversation upfront is super important. Sara addresses how to respond to client trust issues. How to stop clients from ‘shopping’ you. Sara’s business model has two sources of revenue: the design fee and the furnishings as a retailer. Sara’s tips when speaking to vendors. Reverse-engineering to make sure that you can be profitable with your model will instill confidence in how you speak to people and what you’re able to offer them. Connect with Sara! Website Instagram Facebook Links : Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Investment: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other shows mentioned: #524 #514 #463   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Sara Brennan rejoins the show today and she’s going to be sharing how she is managing the recent influx of new clients as she scales her business, how very critical organization is to the process, and a breakdown of the services she offers. We’ll also be touching on her upcoming Process Leads to Profit course, so please join us for some great takeaway ideas to streamline your own business and to learn more about how you can really drill down into what Sara calls “the Four P’s of design: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits”, to take YOUR profits to the next level.

Sara is a co-author in the upcoming second volume of A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts.

She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.

Show Highlights:

  • Sara has developed a mapped-out process that not only gets compliments from her clients, but she’s even had clients asking her to consult with THEIR clients!
  • Sara details how her clients are set up with the different levels of design services she offers, as not everyone wants or can afford full-service design.
  • A storyboard with different designs and a discussion with what the client hates or loves about them is one unique system that Sara uses.
  • Having the numbers conversation upfront is super important.
  • Sara addresses how to respond to client trust issues.
  • How to stop clients from ‘shopping’ you.
  • Sara’s business model has two sources of revenue: the design fee and the furnishings as a retailer.
  • Sara’s tips when speaking to vendors.
  • Reverse-engineering to make sure that you can be profitable with your model will instill confidence in how you speak to people and what you’re able to offer them.

Connect with Sara!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Links :

Process Leads to Profits - Kicking Off November 4, 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year!

Investment: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other shows mentioned:

#524

#514

#463

 

]]> 4923 no 606: Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/606-phoebe-oldrey-how-a-niche-can-give-new-life-to-your-business-0 Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is Phoebe Oldrey. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors based in the UK. Oftentimes, designers feel like they can’t niche down, thinking that will close the door on all the other possibilities out there. When Phoebe reached the point in her career where she felt the desperate drive to do something different with design, she came to realize that design wasn’t just about aesthetics or creating beautiful spaces, but that it opens opportunities to create holistic, life-altering spaces for clients. So, Phoebe did the next practical thing: she niched down, rebranded, and started focusing on the projects that truly made her happy. Let’s hear what Phoebe has to say about holistic design, niching, and following your passion in your business. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors, an innovative interior design studio which takes a holistic approach. In 2017, after 15 years in the industry and tired of being asked what the next tread was, Phoebe decided to take an approach to her designs that not only balances how a space works and what it looks like, but also asks “How does it make us feel”. Believing that only when we get the balance right between Function, Aesthetics and Emotions will we create amazing places people are happy in. This led to her TEDx talk “Interior design is about more than wallpaper and bean bags” and numerous speaking opportunities where she shares her passion for putting people at the front of design. Show Highlights: Talent is a gift, but it is not something that automatically opens doors for you. Phoebe discusses the skills that are needed to be successful in the industry. Phoebe shares the circumstances surrounding her desire to do more profound work. Biophilic design is a study of human beings’ relationship to nature. Niching can be very scary, but since Phoebe wasn’t doing work that she was in love with, she decided to go in a different direction. More people than ever have been interested in holistic design for their work and living spaces for the health benefits since the coronavirus event lockdowns. Holistic interior design focuses on more than just the aesthetics. It also: compliments a client’s lifestyle habits is designed to support the circadian rhythm makes the client FEEL GOOD to be in this space Designers should stop being scared of what’s unique, because what’s unique is amazing! Your niche should be made up of your own authentic passion and drive. Everything is connected: we shape our houses, and our houses shape us. Connect with Phoebe! Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Phoebe's TEDx Talk Online Course – “Finding your Confidence with Colour”   Book Referenced by Phoebe: Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant  by W. Kim Chan and Renée Mauborgne   Links / Resources: Designer Discussion: LuAnn Nigara Hosts a Conversation with Kravet Furniture Oct 29, 2020 12:00 PM EST (United States & Canada) Register Here Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other episodes mentioned: Cheryl Janis #41 Mike Peterson #569     Tue, 27 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business full 606 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is Phoebe Oldrey. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors based in the UK. Oftentimes, designers feel like they can’t niche down, thinking that will close the door on all the other... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is Phoebe Oldrey. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors based in the UK. Oftentimes, designers feel like they can’t niche down, thinking that will close the door on all the other possibilities out there. When Phoebe reached the point in her career where she felt the desperate drive to do something different with design, she came to realize that design wasn’t just about aesthetics or creating beautiful spaces, but that it opens opportunities to create holistic, life-altering spaces for clients. So, Phoebe did the next practical thing: she niched down, rebranded, and started focusing on the projects that truly made her happy. Let’s hear what Phoebe has to say about holistic design, niching, and following your passion in your business. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors, an innovative interior design studio which takes a holistic approach. In 2017, after 15 years in the industry and tired of being asked what the next tread was, Phoebe decided to take an approach to her designs that not only balances how a space works and what it looks like, but also asks “How does it make us feel”. Believing that only when we get the balance right between Function, Aesthetics and Emotions will we create amazing places people are happy in. This led to her TEDx talk “Interior design is about more than wallpaper and bean bags” and numerous speaking opportunities where she shares her passion for putting people at the front of design. Show Highlights: Talent is a gift, but it is not something that automatically opens doors for you. Phoebe discusses the skills that are needed to be successful in the industry. Phoebe shares the circumstances surrounding her desire to do more profound work. Biophilic design is a study of human beings’ relationship to nature. Niching can be very scary, but since Phoebe wasn’t doing work that she was in love with, she decided to go in a different direction. More people than ever have been interested in holistic design for their work and living spaces for the health benefits since the coronavirus event lockdowns. Holistic interior design focuses on more than just the aesthetics. It also: compliments a client’s lifestyle habits is designed to support the circadian rhythm makes the client FEEL GOOD to be in this space Designers should stop being scared of what’s unique, because what’s unique is amazing! Your niche should be made up of your own authentic passion and drive. Everything is connected: we shape our houses, and our houses shape us. Connect with Phoebe! Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest Phoebe's TEDx Talk Online Course – “Finding your Confidence with Colour”   Book Referenced by Phoebe: Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant  by W. Kim Chan and Renée Mauborgne   Links / Resources: Designer Discussion: LuAnn Nigara Hosts a Conversation with Kravet Furniture Oct 29, 2020 12:00 PM EST (United States & Canada) Register Here Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other episodes mentioned: Cheryl Janis #41 Mike Peterson #569     Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is Phoebe Oldrey. Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors based in the UK. Oftentimes, designers feel like they can’t niche down, thinking that will close the door on all the other possibilities out there.

When Phoebe reached the point in her career where she felt the desperate drive to do something different with design, she came to realize that design wasn’t just about aesthetics or creating beautiful spaces, but that it opens opportunities to create holistic, life-altering spaces for clients. So, Phoebe did the next practical thing: she niched down, rebranded, and started focusing on the projects that truly made her happy.

Let’s hear what Phoebe has to say about holistic design, niching, and following your passion in your business.

Phoebe is the founder of Smartstyle Interiors, an innovative interior design studio which takes a holistic approach. In 2017, after 15 years in the industry and tired of being asked what the next tread was, Phoebe decided to take an approach to her designs that not only balances how a space works and what it looks like, but also asks “How does it make us feel”. Believing that only when we get the balance right between Function, Aesthetics and Emotions will we create amazing places people are happy in. This led to her TEDx talk “Interior design is about more than wallpaper and bean bags” and numerous speaking opportunities where she shares her passion for putting people at the front of design.

Show Highlights:

  • Talent is a gift, but it is not something that automatically opens doors for you.
  • Phoebe discusses the skills that are needed to be successful in the industry.
  • Phoebe shares the circumstances surrounding her desire to do more profound work.
  • Biophilic design is a study of human beings’ relationship to nature.
  • Niching can be very scary, but since Phoebe wasn’t doing work that she was in love with, she decided to go in a different direction.
  • More people than ever have been interested in holistic design for their work and living spaces for the health benefits since the coronavirus event lockdowns.
  • Holistic interior design focuses on more than just the aesthetics. It also:
    • compliments a client’s lifestyle habits
    • is designed to support the circadian rhythm
    • makes the client FEEL GOOD to be in this space
  • Designers should stop being scared of what’s unique, because what’s unique is amazing!
  • Your niche should be made up of your own authentic passion and drive.
  • Everything is connected: we shape our houses, and our houses shape us.

Connect with Phoebe!

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest

Phoebe's TEDx Talk

Online Course – “Finding your Confidence with Colour”  

Book Referenced by Phoebe:

Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant  by W. Kim Chan and Renée Mauborgne  

Links / Resources:

Designer Discussion: LuAnn Nigara Hosts a Conversation with Kravet Furniture

Oct 29, 2020 12:00 PM EST (United States & Canada)

Register Here

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other episodes mentioned:

Cheryl Janis #41

Mike Peterson #569

 

 

]]> 3966 no 605: Power Talk Friday: Betty Marton: The Story Behind The Story: Writing For Your Business And Your Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/605-power-talk-friday-betty-marton-the-story-behind-the-story-writing-for-your-business-and-your-life Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! There are so many of us who struggle with communicating who we are and what we do, especially on our websites. Betty Marton, founder of In Your Own Words, is back with us on the show to discuss how important it is in sharing your story to show your humanity, your journey, and your vulnerability. Betty is a lover of stories, conversation, and talking to people and hearing about their lives. She has her own separate business as a writer, copywriter, and storyteller whose passion is helping people understand their stories and bring them to life. Think about the way that you are portraying your business with your words, and be sure to listen in as Betty imparts her expertise about storytelling and the impact it can have, both on your business and your personal life. Writer and editor Betty Marton works with individuals, as well as large and small businesses, foundations, and nonprofit organizations to capture and share the stories they need to tell. She has reported on and written about a wide range of business practices and social change programs. In her work with individuals who want to tell their life stories, her innate curiosity and empathy often helps lead them to gain new insights and reimagine self-limiting beliefs. Betty is, as well, the liaison between her artist husband, Jerry Teters, and interior design clients for whom he creates commissioned paintings. Best known as an abstract artist, Jerry also creates intimate portraits of home, scene from his clients’ lives at home or on vacation. Show Highlights: As Betty explains, your profession doesn’t matter. Whatever your passion is, she can write about that. Betty loves figuring out the layers beyond the who, what, when, why, and where: the story behind the story. Everybody has a story that matters. Knowing someone’s vulnerabilities helps you connect. Meaningful articles are valuable marketing tools. Word-shaping written copy is one of Betty’s gifts. Betty gives an overview of the different ways she works with clients. In the telling of your story, Betty likes to explore the different angles that helps you see something you didn’t see before. A photo story is something that anybody can do. Betty offers 16 Questions you can ask yourself to help you dig deeper into your photograph. This enables you to learn more about yourself and the person in the picture than you would have known before. There’s also a link to discover your coronavirus photo story on Betty’s website! Check out Jerry's art! It is a valuable resource for designers. Connect with Betty! Betty’s Website      Betty’s Instagram Betty’s Facebook Betty's FREE 16 Questions Guide for Telling Your Own Photo Stories Jerry’s Website Jerry’s Instagram Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link #600 Celebrating the 600th Episode, LuAnn is Interviewed! #574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #33 Arlene Angard – Mix 1 Part Passion + 1 Part Strategy = Success! #80 Asler Valero- Be Intentional- Design Your Business and Your Life #32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development   Fri, 23 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Betty Marton: The Story Behind The Story: Writing For Your Business And Your Life full 605 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! There are so many of us who struggle with communicating who we are and what we do, especially on our websites. Betty Marton, founder of In Your Own Words, is back with us on the show to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! There are so many of us who struggle with communicating who we are and what we do, especially on our websites. Betty Marton, founder of In Your Own Words, is back with us on the show to discuss how important it is in sharing your story to show your humanity, your journey, and your vulnerability. Betty is a lover of stories, conversation, and talking to people and hearing about their lives. She has her own separate business as a writer, copywriter, and storyteller whose passion is helping people understand their stories and bring them to life. Think about the way that you are portraying your business with your words, and be sure to listen in as Betty imparts her expertise about storytelling and the impact it can have, both on your business and your personal life. Writer and editor Betty Marton works with individuals, as well as large and small businesses, foundations, and nonprofit organizations to capture and share the stories they need to tell. She has reported on and written about a wide range of business practices and social change programs. In her work with individuals who want to tell their life stories, her innate curiosity and empathy often helps lead them to gain new insights and reimagine self-limiting beliefs. Betty is, as well, the liaison between her artist husband, Jerry Teters, and interior design clients for whom he creates commissioned paintings. Best known as an abstract artist, Jerry also creates intimate portraits of home, scene from his clients’ lives at home or on vacation. Show Highlights: As Betty explains, your profession doesn’t matter. Whatever your passion is, she can write about that. Betty loves figuring out the layers beyond the who, what, when, why, and where: the story behind the story. Everybody has a story that matters. Knowing someone’s vulnerabilities helps you connect. Meaningful articles are valuable marketing tools. Word-shaping written copy is one of Betty’s gifts. Betty gives an overview of the different ways she works with clients. In the telling of your story, Betty likes to explore the different angles that helps you see something you didn’t see before. A photo story is something that anybody can do. Betty offers 16 Questions you can ask yourself to help you dig deeper into your photograph. This enables you to learn more about yourself and the person in the picture than you would have known before. There’s also a link to discover your coronavirus photo story on Betty’s website! Check out Jerry's art! It is a valuable resource for designers. Connect with Betty! Betty’s Website      Betty’s Instagram Betty’s Facebook Betty's FREE 16 Questions Guide for Telling Your Own Photo Stories Jerry’s Website Jerry’s Instagram Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link #600 Celebrating the 600th Episode, LuAnn is Interviewed! #574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy #33 Arlene Angard – Mix 1 Part Passion + 1 Part Strategy = Success! #80 Asler Valero- Be Intentional- Design Your Business and Your Life #32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! There are so many of us who struggle with communicating who we are and what we do, especially on our websites. Betty Marton, founder of In Your Own Words, is back with us on the show to discuss how important it is in sharing your story to show your humanity, your journey, and your vulnerability.

Betty is a lover of stories, conversation, and talking to people and hearing about their lives. She has her own separate business as a writer, copywriter, and storyteller whose passion is helping people understand their stories and bring them to life.

Think about the way that you are portraying your business with your words, and be sure to listen in as Betty imparts her expertise about storytelling and the impact it can have, both on your business and your personal life.

Writer and editor Betty Marton works with individuals, as well as large and small businesses, foundations, and nonprofit organizations to capture and share the stories they need to tell. She has reported on and written about a wide range of business practices and social change programs. In her work with individuals who want to tell their life stories, her innate curiosity and empathy often helps lead them to gain new insights and reimagine self-limiting beliefs. Betty is, as well, the liaison between her artist husband, Jerry Teters, and interior design clients for whom he creates commissioned paintings. Best known as an abstract artist, Jerry also creates intimate portraits of home, scene from his clients’ lives at home or on vacation.

Show Highlights:

  • As Betty explains, your profession doesn’t matter. Whatever your passion is, she can write about that.
  • Betty loves figuring out the layers beyond the who, what, when, why, and where: the story behind the story.
  • Everybody has a story that matters. Knowing someone’s vulnerabilities helps you connect.
  • Meaningful articles are valuable marketing tools.
  • Word-shaping written copy is one of Betty’s gifts.
  • Betty gives an overview of the different ways she works with clients.
  • In the telling of your story, Betty likes to explore the different angles that helps you see something you didn’t see before.
  • A photo story is something that anybody can do. Betty offers 16 Questions you can ask yourself to help you dig deeper into your photograph. This enables you to learn more about yourself and the person in the picture than you would have known before.
  • There’s also a link to discover your coronavirus photo story on Betty’s website!
  • Check out Jerry's art! It is a valuable resource for designers.

Connect with Betty!

Betty’s Website     

Betty’s Instagram

Betty’s Facebook

Betty's FREE 16 Questions Guide for Telling Your Own Photo Stories

Jerry’s Website

Jerry’s Instagram

Links :

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link

#600 Celebrating the 600th Episode, LuAnn is Interviewed!

#574 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

#33 Arlene Angard – Mix 1 Part Passion + 1 Part Strategy = Success!

#80 Asler Valero- Be Intentional- Design Your Business and Your Life

#32 Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

 

]]> 3629 no 604: What Would Lu Do: The All Important, Project Autopsy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/604-what-would-lu-do-the-all-important-project-autopsy Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”! LuAnn received a request from a window treatment professional to review the “autopsy” process that LuAnn’s team does at Window Works, so this episode is dedicated to covering the review of a project once it’s completed. Whether you are a photographer, web developer, architect, or blogger, it is essential for each and every business owner to review their projects for profitability, deficiencies, processes, and client satisfaction. LuAnn discusses this process mostly from the perspective of a window treatment specialist, so if you are a designer, you have more work to do! But no worries, she’s got you designers covered on that, too! Get comfy, you’ll want to take notes! Show Highlights: There are 3 main objectives of a post-project “autopsy”. To learn: what it is we do well what it is we need to improve on and what kinds of projects we make money on LuAnn details the items that need to be reviewed: gross dollar amount of the project marketing source net cost of goods on the project review the completed project with installers, sales reps, and the office admin team tag the client in our CRM as ‘market to’, ‘don’t market to’ and ‘request a review’ review what you learned Steps you can add to this process as a design firm include: set up debriefs with your key trades especially at the completion of larger size projects ask your client how you did, in a personal, meaningful way By not examining everything, you sometimes don’t learn everything. You only learn what gets caught, not what could have been avoided. Growth and learning and excellence comes from reviewing what you do, how you do it, and who you do it for. Links : WCAA's 3x3 Virtual Learning Event FREE Virtual Learning Event! October 28-30, 2020 9am, 12pm, and 3pm Daily! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Shows to include in show notes: #36 Susan Brunstrum   Thu, 22 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: The All Important, Project Autopsy full 604 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”! LuAnn received a request from a window treatment professional to review the “autopsy” process that LuAnn’s team does at Window Works, so... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”! LuAnn received a request from a window treatment professional to review the “autopsy” process that LuAnn’s team does at Window Works, so this episode is dedicated to covering the review of a project once it’s completed. Whether you are a photographer, web developer, architect, or blogger, it is essential for each and every business owner to review their projects for profitability, deficiencies, processes, and client satisfaction. LuAnn discusses this process mostly from the perspective of a window treatment specialist, so if you are a designer, you have more work to do! But no worries, she’s got you designers covered on that, too! Get comfy, you’ll want to take notes! Show Highlights: There are 3 main objectives of a post-project “autopsy”. To learn: what it is we do well what it is we need to improve on and what kinds of projects we make money on LuAnn details the items that need to be reviewed: gross dollar amount of the project marketing source net cost of goods on the project review the completed project with installers, sales reps, and the office admin team tag the client in our CRM as ‘market to’, ‘don’t market to’ and ‘request a review’ review what you learned Steps you can add to this process as a design firm include: set up debriefs with your key trades especially at the completion of larger size projects ask your client how you did, in a personal, meaningful way By not examining everything, you sometimes don’t learn everything. You only learn what gets caught, not what could have been avoided. Growth and learning and excellence comes from reviewing what you do, how you do it, and who you do it for. Links : WCAA's 3x3 Virtual Learning Event FREE Virtual Learning Event! October 28-30, 2020 9am, 12pm, and 3pm Daily! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Shows to include in show notes: #36 Susan Brunstrum   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”! LuAnn received a request from a window treatment professional to review the “autopsy” process that LuAnn’s team does at Window Works, so this episode is dedicated to covering the review of a project once it’s completed.

Whether you are a photographer, web developer, architect, or blogger, it is essential for each and every business owner to review their projects for profitability, deficiencies, processes, and client satisfaction.

LuAnn discusses this process mostly from the perspective of a window treatment specialist, so if you are a designer, you have more work to do! But no worries, she’s got you designers covered on that, too! Get comfy, you’ll want to take notes!

Show Highlights:

  • There are 3 main objectives of a post-project “autopsy”. To learn:
    • what it is we do well
    • what it is we need to improve on and
    • what kinds of projects we make money on
  • LuAnn details the items that need to be reviewed:
    • gross dollar amount of the project
    • marketing source
    • net cost of goods on the project
    • review the completed project with installers, sales reps, and the office admin team
    • tag the client in our CRM as ‘market to’, ‘don’t market to’ and ‘request a review’
    • review what you learned
  • Steps you can add to this process as a design firm include:
    • set up debriefs with your key trades especially at the completion of larger size projects
    • ask your client how you did, in a personal, meaningful way
  • By not examining everything, you sometimes don’t learn everything. You only learn what gets caught, not what could have been avoided.
  • Growth and learning and excellence comes from reviewing what you do, how you do it, and who you do it for.

Links :

WCAA's 3x3 Virtual Learning Event

FREE Virtual Learning Event!

October 28-30, 2020

9am, 12pm, and 3pm Daily!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Shows to include in show notes: #36 Susan Brunstrum

 

]]> 2427 no 603: Carissa Miller: The Real-Life Work Behind an Instagram Sensation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/603-carissa-miller-the-real-life-work-behind-an-instagram-sensation Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest, Carissa Miller of CC and Mike, shares how a “completely unexpected opportunity” turned into a leap of faith for her and her husband, Mike. Carissa’s journey is so much more than that happy accident, though, as you’re going to hear. Listen in to this inspiring conversation around how an Instagram post that went viral launched her into a rapidly growing business that she never saw coming, as well as how she and her husband navigated the unique challenges that come with running a business with your spouse. CC and Mike are a husband and wife team who make dream homes happen nation-wide, offering full-service design, build, and remodel services to their clients. Launched in May 2016, their social media and blog following have grown rapidly to include followers from all over the world who look to CC and Mike for design and building inspiration for their own homes. CC and Mike’s audience loves following their adventures as they design, flip, and renovate homes! Show Highlights: Carissa’s background and professional experience in photography led to a desire to “re-brand” her career. Carissa shares how she has always designed and her husband, Mike, has always built their own homes, and a photo of her bedroom posted to her new Instagram account became an instant hit, with One Kings Lane and Pottery Barn asking for interviews and design advice. From there, she started getting requests from people to design for them. Contracts, policies, and procedures have been the biggest change in their lives since designing for a client, versus designing and flipping houses for themselves. Mistakes and lessons are part of the learning curve, but everybody has to start somewhere! Carissa describes how scary it was to take a leap of faith. Investing the time and money in a business coach or consultant brings another’s perspective and helps you to grow your business the right way. Carissa addresses how she and Mike stayed in agreement during the early days. “Stay in your lane” and work inside your strengths. Hiring the right employees that complement your business is critical. The transition from being business partners during the day and husband and wife after hours takes some conscious effort! Connect with Carissa! Website Instagram Facebook Blog  Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success     Tue, 20 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Carissa Miller: The Real-Life Work Behind an Instagram Sensation full 603 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest, Carissa Miller of CC and Mike, shares how a “completely unexpected opportunity” turned into a leap of faith for her and her husband, Mike. Carissa’s journey is so much more than that happy... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest, Carissa Miller of CC and Mike, shares how a “completely unexpected opportunity” turned into a leap of faith for her and her husband, Mike. Carissa’s journey is so much more than that happy accident, though, as you’re going to hear. Listen in to this inspiring conversation around how an Instagram post that went viral launched her into a rapidly growing business that she never saw coming, as well as how she and her husband navigated the unique challenges that come with running a business with your spouse. CC and Mike are a husband and wife team who make dream homes happen nation-wide, offering full-service design, build, and remodel services to their clients. Launched in May 2016, their social media and blog following have grown rapidly to include followers from all over the world who look to CC and Mike for design and building inspiration for their own homes. CC and Mike’s audience loves following their adventures as they design, flip, and renovate homes! Show Highlights: Carissa’s background and professional experience in photography led to a desire to “re-brand” her career. Carissa shares how she has always designed and her husband, Mike, has always built their own homes, and a photo of her bedroom posted to her new Instagram account became an instant hit, with One Kings Lane and Pottery Barn asking for interviews and design advice. From there, she started getting requests from people to design for them. Contracts, policies, and procedures have been the biggest change in their lives since designing for a client, versus designing and flipping houses for themselves. Mistakes and lessons are part of the learning curve, but everybody has to start somewhere! Carissa describes how scary it was to take a leap of faith. Investing the time and money in a business coach or consultant brings another’s perspective and helps you to grow your business the right way. Carissa addresses how she and Mike stayed in agreement during the early days. “Stay in your lane” and work inside your strengths. Hiring the right employees that complement your business is critical. The transition from being business partners during the day and husband and wife after hours takes some conscious effort! Connect with Carissa! Website Instagram Facebook Blog  Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm #480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest, Carissa Miller of CC and Mike, shares how a “completely unexpected opportunity” turned into a leap of faith for her and her husband, Mike. Carissa’s journey is so much more than that happy accident, though, as you’re going to hear. Listen in to this inspiring conversation around how an Instagram post that went viral launched her into a rapidly growing business that she never saw coming, as well as how she and her husband navigated the unique challenges that come with running a business with your spouse.

CC and Mike are a husband and wife team who make dream homes happen nation-wide, offering full-service design, build, and remodel services to their clients. Launched in May 2016, their social media and blog following have grown rapidly to include followers from all over the world who look to CC and Mike for design and building inspiration for their own homes. CC and Mike’s audience loves following their adventures as they design, flip, and renovate homes!


Show Highlights:

  • Carissa’s background and professional experience in photography led to a desire to “re-brand” her career.
  • Carissa shares how she has always designed and her husband, Mike, has always built their own homes, and a photo of her bedroom posted to her new Instagram account became an instant hit, with One Kings Lane and Pottery Barn asking for interviews and design advice. From there, she started getting requests from people to design for them.
  • Contracts, policies, and procedures have been the biggest change in their lives since designing for a client, versus designing and flipping houses for themselves.
  • Mistakes and lessons are part of the learning curve, but everybody has to start somewhere!
  • Carissa describes how scary it was to take a leap of faith.
  • Investing the time and money in a business coach or consultant brings another’s perspective and helps you to grow your business the right way.
  • Carissa addresses how she and Mike stayed in agreement during the early days. “Stay in your lane” and work inside your strengths.
  • Hiring the right employees that complement your business is critical.
  • The transition from being business partners during the day and husband and wife after hours takes some conscious effort!

Connect with Carissa!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Blog 

Links :

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward

#474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

#480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success

 

 

]]> 5036 no 602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/602-terri-taylor-interior-design-business-academy-2020-summit Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 4 thru Friday, November 6, 2020. This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual. In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm. After 30 years in the industry, Terri has tons of experience in running her own firm and teaching you how to do it through her Interior Design Business Academy. And to be clear, the summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020 Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Show Highlights: The “nuts and bolts” side of how interior designers can get paid what they are worth is a part of the system that Terri teaches at Interior Design Business Academy: Advantages of fees vs. hourly, and design fees in relation to project budgets Pricing product/furniture properly so you don’t get push back and clients are happy How to have profitable remodeling jobs How to present and price a big design fee on a huge new build What your profit margin on a design job  should be Your mindset around wealth consciousness is actually the secret to getting paid what you are worth. Terri provides reasons why and examples of how designers are often in their own way. Once you identify and release those beliefs, rules, and practices that are keeping you “in your own way”, the “how-tos” easily fall into place. Interior Design Business Academy is a blend of educational programs and coaching: It’s lots of step-by-step, how-to-do-it recipes backed up by coaching, which creates predictably successful results. Terri explains the Growth, Structure, and Masters programs that she offers at Interior Design Business Academy. “Fly the plane while you build it.” Terri Taylor is the founder and host of the upcoming Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit - “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing”. Although it’s required by her Growth, Structure, and Masters students, this retreat is also open to the public! The 2020 Summit is a very interactive, 3-day virtual retreat, with lots of connection and sharing with designers across the country, breakout groups, all worksheets/handouts, coaching, Q and A time with Terri, and dancing… yes, it’s true, believe it or not! The 2020 Summit – “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing” is where: your passion for design combines with the ability to earn what you’re worth to become a reality. you will gain the confidence to make the shift and get the “recipe” for making consistently profitable fee-based offers for design services. you will learn to embrace your beautiful design gifts and attract high-paying clients to become a confident, well-paid designer. you do the “inside” work that allows you to shift into the abundant, confident, well-paid designer you are destined to be. you will uncover the freedom and fulfillment you’ve always wanted. This Summit is for pros, third acts, stars, leaders, game-changers, beginners, creatives, and IDBA members! There’s a Special Bonus “Wealth Consciousness Intensive Live” with Terri for Early Bird ticket holders only! Don’t miss the virtual mix and mingle event before the Summit! Remember: the only way you breakthrough is to COMMIT to doing whatever it takes to achieve the life, clients, and jobs you want.   Connect with Terri! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit “Mastering Design Fees & Pricing” Wednesday, November 4th thru Friday, November 6th, 2020 10:00 AM EST – 6:00 PM EST Virtual experience Admission: $347 or 2 payments of $207 *Early Bird pricing only valid until midnight, October 20th *Early Bird BONUS -  A pre-event Wealth Consciousness Workshop with Terri so that you can get a head start into shifting your mindset and getting paid what you are really worth! Register for 2020 Summit Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020 Other shows mentioned: #548 Terri Taylor Fri, 16 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit full 602 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 4... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 4 thru Friday, November 6, 2020. This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual. In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm. After 30 years in the industry, Terri has tons of experience in running her own firm and teaching you how to do it through her Interior Design Business Academy. And to be clear, the summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020 Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Show Highlights: The “nuts and bolts” side of how interior designers can get paid what they are worth is a part of the system that Terri teaches at Interior Design Business Academy: Advantages of fees vs. hourly, and design fees in relation to project budgets Pricing product/furniture properly so you don’t get push back and clients are happy How to have profitable remodeling jobs How to present and price a big design fee on a huge new build What your profit margin on a design job  should be Your mindset around wealth consciousness is actually the secret to getting paid what you are worth. Terri provides reasons why and examples of how designers are often in their own way. Once you identify and release those beliefs, rules, and practices that are keeping you “in your own way”, the “how-tos” easily fall into place. Interior Design Business Academy is a blend of educational programs and coaching: It’s lots of step-by-step, how-to-do-it recipes backed up by coaching, which creates predictably successful results. Terri explains the Growth, Structure, and Masters programs that she offers at Interior Design Business Academy. “Fly the plane while you build it.” Terri Taylor is the founder and host of the upcoming Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit - “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing”. Although it’s required by her Growth, Structure, and Masters students, this retreat is also open to the public! The 2020 Summit is a very interactive, 3-day virtual retreat, with lots of connection and sharing with designers across the country, breakout groups, all worksheets/handouts, coaching, Q and A time with Terri, and dancing… yes, it’s true, believe it or not! The 2020 Summit – “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing” is where: your passion for design combines with the ability to earn what you’re worth to become a reality. you will gain the confidence to make the shift and get the “recipe” for making consistently profitable fee-based offers for design services. you will learn to embrace your beautiful design gifts and attract high-paying clients to become a confident, well-paid designer. you do the “inside” work that allows you to shift into the abundant, confident, well-paid designer you are destined to be. you will uncover the freedom and fulfillment you’ve always wanted. This Summit is for pros, third acts, stars, leaders, game-changers, beginners, creatives, and IDBA members! There’s a Special Bonus “Wealth Consciousness Intensive Live” with Terri for Early Bird ticket holders only! Don’t miss the virtual mix and mingle event before the Summit! Remember: the only way you breakthrough is to COMMIT to doing whatever it takes to achieve the life, clients, and jobs you want.   Connect with Terri! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit “Mastering Design Fees & Pricing” Wednesday, November 4th thru Friday, November 6th, 2020 10:00 AM EST – 6:00 PM EST Virtual experience Admission: $347 or 2 payments of $207 *Early Bird pricing only valid until midnight, October 20th *Early Bird BONUS -  A pre-event Wealth Consciousness Workshop with Terri so that you can get a head start into shifting your mindset and getting paid what you are really worth! Register for 2020 Summit Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020 Other shows mentioned: #548 Terri Taylor Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically the Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit, which is happening Wednesday, November 4 thru Friday, November 6, 2020.

This event will run from 10:00 am EST to 6:00 pm and it is entirely virtual.

In today’s conversation, Terri Taylor not only shares all the details of the outstanding Summit she has planned for you, but she shares valuable tips for running your firm. After 30 years in the industry, Terri has tons of experience in running her own firm and teaching you how to do it through her Interior Design Business Academy.

And to be clear, the summit is open to all interior design business owners, not just IDBA coaching members, so be sure to check it out at Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.


Show Highlights:

  • The “nuts and bolts” side of how interior designers can get paid what they are worth is a part of the system that Terri teaches at Interior Design Business Academy:
    • Advantages of fees vs. hourly, and design fees in relation to project budgets
    • Pricing product/furniture properly so you don’t get push back and clients are happy
    • How to have profitable remodeling jobs
    • How to present and price a big design fee on a huge new build
    • What your profit margin on a design job  should be
  • Your mindset around wealth consciousness is actually the secret to getting paid what you are worth.
  • Terri provides reasons why and examples of how designers are often in their own way.
  • Once you identify and release those beliefs, rules, and practices that are keeping you “in your own way”, the “how-tos” easily fall into place.
  • Interior Design Business Academy is a blend of educational programs and coaching: It’s lots of step-by-step, how-to-do-it recipes backed up by coaching, which creates predictably successful results.
  • Terri explains the Growth, Structure, and Masters programs that she offers at Interior Design Business Academy.
  • “Fly the plane while you build it.”
  • Terri Taylor is the founder and host of the upcoming Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit - “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing”. Although it’s required by her Growth, Structure, and Masters students, this retreat is also open to the public!
  • The 2020 Summit is a very interactive, 3-day virtual retreat, with lots of connection and sharing with designers across the country, breakout groups, all worksheets/handouts, coaching, Q and A time with Terri, and dancing… yes, it’s true, believe it or not!
  • The 2020 Summit – “Mastering Design Fees and Pricing” is where:
    • your passion for design combines with the ability to earn what you’re worth to become a reality.
    • you will gain the confidence to make the shift and get the “recipe” for making consistently profitable fee-based offers for design services.
    • you will learn to embrace your beautiful design gifts and attract high-paying clients to become a confident, well-paid designer.
    • you do the “inside” work that allows you to shift into the abundant, confident, well-paid designer you are destined to be.
    • you will uncover the freedom and fulfillment you’ve always wanted.
  • This Summit is for pros, third acts, stars, leaders, game-changers, beginners, creatives, and IDBA members!
  • There’s a Special Bonus “Wealth Consciousness Intensive Live” with Terri for Early Bird ticket holders only!
  • Don’t miss the virtual mix and mingle event before the Summit!
  • Remember: the only way you breakthrough is to COMMIT to doing whatever it takes to achieve the life, clients, and jobs you want.

 

Connect with Terri!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Website

Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit

“Mastering Design Fees & Pricing”

Wednesday, November 4th thru Friday, November 6th, 2020

10:00 AM EST – 6:00 PM EST

Virtual experience

Admission: $347 or 2 payments of $207

*Early Bird pricing only valid until midnight, October 20th

*Early Bird BONUS -  A pre-event Wealth Consciousness Workshop with Terri so that you can get a head start into shifting your mindset and getting paid what you are really worth!

Register for 2020 Summit

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Interior Design Business Academy Summit 2020

Other shows mentioned:

#548 Terri Taylor

]]> 4371 no 601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/601-darla-powell-real-tips-to-up-your-social-media-game Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Social media guru, Darla Powell from Darla Powell Interiors, joins us in this conversation today on how to get more juice from your social media efforts. We change, our business changes, and sometimes, we need to refresh our minds about what we’re really doing and who we’re doing it for. The goal here today is to talk about honing the message you’re sending out to the world, and if you already did this five years ago, well maybe it’s time to do it again! Darla is a co-author of the 2nd volume of A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts that is coming out in November 2020. Darla really is the social media guru. She blew up social from the get-go and she hasn’t stopped since. Thankfully she is just fine with sharing her tools and ideas with us, so we can try to duplicate her success. Please welcome her back to the show! Darla has a fun, genuine, and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work! In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability, and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects. Darla’s career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother’s antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles, and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla’s refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing. Show Highlights: This podcast helped educate Darla and gave her the courage to take a leap into a totally different career path. Darla explains how she came to create Wingnut Social. When clients are looking up your design firm online, they are also scoping out your PR sources and checking out your social media to see how you engage with others. Social media is a multi-billion dollar business and is not a trend. It’s here to stay! It’s difficult for a business to survive the long run without having a well-rounded social media presence. Darla offers her social media strategies! Marketing budgets can be 5-20% of your overall annual gross, depending on a few factors. When you’re a newer designer, that percentage should be higher because you’re building brand awareness and a following. Who are you? LuAnn shares what she looks for on designer’s websites. You have to always be able to adapt, especially in marketing. Connect with Darla! Darla’s Website Darla’s Instagram Darla’s Facebook Darla’s Twitter Wingnut Social The Wingnut Social Podcast Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?LuAnn Nigara COB  Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Previous Episodes Mentioned: Darla was on episodes #203 and #330   Tue, 13 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game full 601 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Social media guru, Darla Powell from Darla Powell Interiors, joins us in this conversation today on how to get more juice from your social media efforts. We change, our business changes, and sometimes, we need to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Social media guru, Darla Powell from Darla Powell Interiors, joins us in this conversation today on how to get more juice from your social media efforts. We change, our business changes, and sometimes, we need to refresh our minds about what we’re really doing and who we’re doing it for. The goal here today is to talk about honing the message you’re sending out to the world, and if you already did this five years ago, well maybe it’s time to do it again! Darla is a co-author of the 2nd volume of A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts that is coming out in November 2020. Darla really is the social media guru. She blew up social from the get-go and she hasn’t stopped since. Thankfully she is just fine with sharing her tools and ideas with us, so we can try to duplicate her success. Please welcome her back to the show! Darla has a fun, genuine, and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work! In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability, and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects. Darla’s career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother’s antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles, and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla’s refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing. Show Highlights: This podcast helped educate Darla and gave her the courage to take a leap into a totally different career path. Darla explains how she came to create Wingnut Social. When clients are looking up your design firm online, they are also scoping out your PR sources and checking out your social media to see how you engage with others. Social media is a multi-billion dollar business and is not a trend. It’s here to stay! It’s difficult for a business to survive the long run without having a well-rounded social media presence. Darla offers her social media strategies! Marketing budgets can be 5-20% of your overall annual gross, depending on a few factors. When you’re a newer designer, that percentage should be higher because you’re building brand awareness and a following. Who are you? LuAnn shares what she looks for on designer’s websites. You have to always be able to adapt, especially in marketing. Connect with Darla! Darla’s Website Darla’s Instagram Darla’s Facebook Darla’s Twitter Wingnut Social The Wingnut Social Podcast Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?LuAnn Nigara COB  Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Previous Episodes Mentioned: Darla was on episodes #203 and #330   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Social media guru, Darla Powell from Darla Powell Interiors, joins us in this conversation today on how to get more juice from your social media efforts. We change, our business changes, and sometimes, we need to refresh our minds about what we’re really doing and who we’re doing it for. The goal here today is to talk about honing the message you’re sending out to the world, and if you already did this five years ago, well maybe it’s time to do it again!

Darla is a co-author of the 2nd volume of A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts that is coming out in November 2020. Darla really is the social media guru. She blew up social from the get-go and she hasn’t stopped since. Thankfully she is just fine with sharing her tools and ideas with us, so we can try to duplicate her success. Please welcome her back to the show!

Darla has a fun, genuine, and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work!

In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability, and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects.

Darla’s career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother’s antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles, and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla’s refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing.

Show Highlights:

  • This podcast helped educate Darla and gave her the courage to take a leap into a totally different career path.
  • Darla explains how she came to create Wingnut Social.
  • When clients are looking up your design firm online, they are also scoping out your PR sources and checking out your social media to see how you engage with others.
  • Social media is a multi-billion dollar business and is not a trend. It’s here to stay!
  • It’s difficult for a business to survive the long run without having a well-rounded social media presence.
  • Darla offers her social media strategies!
  • Marketing budgets can be 5-20% of your overall annual gross, depending on a few factors. When you’re a newer designer, that percentage should be higher because you’re building brand awareness and a following.
  • Who are you? LuAnn shares what she looks for on designer’s websites.
  • You have to always be able to adapt, especially in marketing.

Connect with Darla!

Darla’s Website

Darla’s Instagram

Darla’s Facebook

Darla’s Twitter

Wingnut Social

The Wingnut Social Podcast

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?LuAnn Nigara COB 

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch

Previous Episodes Mentioned:

Darla was on episodes #203 and #330

 

]]> 4535 no 600: Celebrating the 600th Episode, LuAnn is Interviewed! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/600-celebrating-the-600th-episode-luann-is-interviewed Welcome to the 600th episode of A Well-Designed Business! In this milestone conversation, LuAnn is the guest today! Deb Mitchell and Betty Marton are two writers and #smartladies who are talking to LuAnn today about the 599 episodes she has under her belt. LuAnn shares how much her life has changed since she aired her first episode back in February of 2016, how appreciative she is for her guests and listeners who have played such a big part in making this podcast a success, and how grateful she is that you invite her into your lives and your businesses each week. Don’t miss this fascinating glimpse into the heart of the host of A Well-Designed Business! Deb, or DesignWriterDeb as she’s referred to on Instagram, specializes in copywriting for interior designers and creatives. Betty, of In Your Own Words, helps individuals and businesses tell their stories through narrative. Show Highlights: LuAnn shares memories from her childhood and how she first learned a good work ethic that carried her into marriage and entrepreneurship with Vin. Focus energy on learning the lessons when you’ve experienced failure. Without failures, there can be no success. If you decide to do something, you can do it. If you don’t do it, you’re the only person standing in your way! LuAnn describes how her podcast came into being and the creative ways she sourced her guests. LuAnn shares her best ‘a-ha’ moments and how every single person on their entrepreneurial journey has something to teach us. Managing a full calendar takes a lot of work, a few shortcuts, and constant conversations with her executive assistant, Lisa! Build a team you trust and have your processes down. Here’s what’s next for LuAnn! Deb, Betty, and LuAnn discuss LuAnn’s BLM special series. “Decide to be excellent!” High Point Market is the Oscars of the design industry, and this year, for a lot of us, that red carpet feels a long way away. But don’t feel like you have to miss out, because Mydoma Studio is here to bring Market to you, wherever you might be. More than just a virtual High Point, Mydoma’s Backstage at High Point Market will bring you showroom tours, private conversations with industry insiders, and insight you just can’t find anywhere else. Head over to Mydoma Studio HPMKT now to get your own backstage pass! Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon!  Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM: Carol Cox #140 Deb Mitchell #574   Fri, 09 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Celebrating the 600th Episode, LuAnn is Interviewed! full 600 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the 600th episode of A Well-Designed Business! In this milestone conversation, LuAnn is the guest today! Deb Mitchell and Betty Marton are two writers and #smartladies who are talking to LuAnn today about the 599 episodes she has under her... Welcome to the 600th episode of A Well-Designed Business! In this milestone conversation, LuAnn is the guest today! Deb Mitchell and Betty Marton are two writers and #smartladies who are talking to LuAnn today about the 599 episodes she has under her belt. LuAnn shares how much her life has changed since she aired her first episode back in February of 2016, how appreciative she is for her guests and listeners who have played such a big part in making this podcast a success, and how grateful she is that you invite her into your lives and your businesses each week. Don’t miss this fascinating glimpse into the heart of the host of A Well-Designed Business! Deb, or DesignWriterDeb as she’s referred to on Instagram, specializes in copywriting for interior designers and creatives. Betty, of In Your Own Words, helps individuals and businesses tell their stories through narrative. Show Highlights: LuAnn shares memories from her childhood and how she first learned a good work ethic that carried her into marriage and entrepreneurship with Vin. Focus energy on learning the lessons when you’ve experienced failure. Without failures, there can be no success. If you decide to do something, you can do it. If you don’t do it, you’re the only person standing in your way! LuAnn describes how her podcast came into being and the creative ways she sourced her guests. LuAnn shares her best ‘a-ha’ moments and how every single person on their entrepreneurial journey has something to teach us. Managing a full calendar takes a lot of work, a few shortcuts, and constant conversations with her executive assistant, Lisa! Build a team you trust and have your processes down. Here’s what’s next for LuAnn! Deb, Betty, and LuAnn discuss LuAnn’s BLM special series. “Decide to be excellent!” High Point Market is the Oscars of the design industry, and this year, for a lot of us, that red carpet feels a long way away. But don’t feel like you have to miss out, because Mydoma Studio is here to bring Market to you, wherever you might be. More than just a virtual High Point, Mydoma’s Backstage at High Point Market will bring you showroom tours, private conversations with industry insiders, and insight you just can’t find anywhere else. Head over to Mydoma Studio HPMKT now to get your own backstage pass! Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon!  Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM: Carol Cox #140 Deb Mitchell #574   Welcome to the 600th episode of A Well-Designed Business! In this milestone conversation, LuAnn is the guest today! Deb Mitchell and Betty Marton are two writers and #smartladies who are talking to LuAnn today about the 599 episodes she has under her belt.

LuAnn shares how much her life has changed since she aired her first episode back in February of 2016, how appreciative she is for her guests and listeners who have played such a big part in making this podcast a success, and how grateful she is that you invite her into your lives and your businesses each week. Don’t miss this fascinating glimpse into the heart of the host of A Well-Designed Business!

Deb, or DesignWriterDeb as she’s referred to on Instagram, specializes in copywriting for interior designers and creatives. Betty, of In Your Own Words, helps individuals and businesses tell their stories through narrative.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares memories from her childhood and how she first learned a good work ethic that carried her into marriage and entrepreneurship with Vin.
  • Focus energy on learning the lessons when you’ve experienced failure. Without failures, there can be no success.
  • If you decide to do something, you can do it. If you don’t do it, you’re the only person standing in your way!
  • LuAnn describes how her podcast came into being and the creative ways she sourced her guests.
  • LuAnn shares her best ‘a-ha’ moments and how every single person on their entrepreneurial journey has something to teach us.
  • Managing a full calendar takes a lot of work, a few shortcuts, and constant conversations with her executive assistant, Lisa!
  • Build a team you trust and have your processes down.
  • Here’s what’s next for LuAnn!
  • Deb, Betty, and LuAnn discuss LuAnn’s BLM special series.
  • “Decide to be excellent!”

High Point Market is the Oscars of the design industry, and this year, for a lot of us, that red carpet feels a long way away. But don’t feel like you have to miss out, because Mydoma Studio is here to bring Market to you, wherever you might be. More than just a virtual High Point, Mydoma’s Backstage at High Point Market will bring you showroom tours, private conversations with industry insiders, and insight you just can’t find anywhere else. Head over to Mydoma Studio HPMKT now to get your own backstage pass!

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

 Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020!

Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM:

Carol Cox #140

Deb Mitchell #574

 

]]> 5071 no 599: What Would Lu Do: Should I Spend My Inheritance? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/599-what-would-lu-do-should-i-spend-my-inheritance Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s dilemma comes from an anonymous listener who has been a faithful listener of the podcast since she started her business in 2014. At that time, she took the least expensive options in setting up her business and hasn’t invested since. She received an inheritance right before COVID hit, so this designer is looking for words of wisdom on whether it’s better to hold on to the money for a household expenses safety net since her husband has been furloughed and is not likely to return to work soon, or if it’s better to invest it back into her business, along with a revised business plan. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the listener’s email to provide the full context of the issue. If the listener’s husband has not yet been returned to work or gained other employment, then the mortgage, food on the table, gas, and electricity all come first. If the household situation is not so dire, remember that there are many steps you can take to set your business up for success that are an investment of your time and not your money. Review, revise, and reflect on the business plan that she set up in 2014. LuAnn details the steps needed for the listener to get very clear on her mission and how to define her core values. Knowing your numbers are critical! Investing in your business must be done with a plan, so LuAnn walks the listener through some financial considerations. Here are the bottom-line investments that the listener must make: Work with a lawyer to register your business. Open a business bank acct. Hire a p/t bookkeeper or commit to knowledgeably doing it yourself religiously, no messing around. Find and hire a CPA, even if it not the kind like Peter Lang who works with you each month and it is just one who will see to it the quarterly and yearly taxes are filed and paid. LuAnn breaks down exactly how she would spend the $9,000. Final thoughts: Invest in your business but also invest time in planning how you will make money. Be steadfast in doing it! Check out SCORE, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small business owners get off the ground, set and achieve their goals through free educational resources, and offers free mentoring from retired business people. Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM: Laurel Smith’s episode #545 Nate Berkus’s episode, #433 Jamie Lieberman’s episode #’s 454 and #547. Kim Worswick’s episode #234   Thu, 08 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: Should I Spend My Inheritance? full 599 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s dilemma comes from an anonymous... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s dilemma comes from an anonymous listener who has been a faithful listener of the podcast since she started her business in 2014. At that time, she took the least expensive options in setting up her business and hasn’t invested since. She received an inheritance right before COVID hit, so this designer is looking for words of wisdom on whether it’s better to hold on to the money for a household expenses safety net since her husband has been furloughed and is not likely to return to work soon, or if it’s better to invest it back into her business, along with a revised business plan. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the listener’s email to provide the full context of the issue. If the listener’s husband has not yet been returned to work or gained other employment, then the mortgage, food on the table, gas, and electricity all come first. If the household situation is not so dire, remember that there are many steps you can take to set your business up for success that are an investment of your time and not your money. Review, revise, and reflect on the business plan that she set up in 2014. LuAnn details the steps needed for the listener to get very clear on her mission and how to define her core values. Knowing your numbers are critical! Investing in your business must be done with a plan, so LuAnn walks the listener through some financial considerations. Here are the bottom-line investments that the listener must make: Work with a lawyer to register your business. Open a business bank acct. Hire a p/t bookkeeper or commit to knowledgeably doing it yourself religiously, no messing around. Find and hire a CPA, even if it not the kind like Peter Lang who works with you each month and it is just one who will see to it the quarterly and yearly taxes are filed and paid. LuAnn breaks down exactly how she would spend the $9,000. Final thoughts: Invest in your business but also invest time in planning how you will make money. Be steadfast in doing it! Check out SCORE, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small business owners get off the ground, set and achieve their goals through free educational resources, and offers free mentoring from retired business people. Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM: Laurel Smith’s episode #545 Nate Berkus’s episode, #433 Jamie Lieberman’s episode #’s 454 and #547. Kim Worswick’s episode #234   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting.

Today’s dilemma comes from an anonymous listener who has been a faithful listener of the podcast since she started her business in 2014. At that time, she took the least expensive options in setting up her business and hasn’t invested since. She received an inheritance right before COVID hit, so this designer is looking for words of wisdom on whether it’s better to hold on to the money for a household expenses safety net since her husband has been furloughed and is not likely to return to work soon, or if it’s better to invest it back into her business, along with a revised business plan.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the listener’s email to provide the full context of the issue.
  • If the listener’s husband has not yet been returned to work or gained other employment, then the mortgage, food on the table, gas, and electricity all come first.
  • If the household situation is not so dire, remember that there are many steps you can take to set your business up for success that are an investment of your time and not your money.
  • Review, revise, and reflect on the business plan that she set up in 2014.
  • LuAnn details the steps needed for the listener to get very clear on her mission and how to define her core values.
  • Knowing your numbers are critical! Investing in your business must be done with a plan, so LuAnn walks the listener through some financial considerations.
  • Here are the bottom-line investments that the listener must make:
  • Work with a lawyer to register your business.
  • Open a business bank acct.
  • Hire a p/t bookkeeper or commit to knowledgeably doing it yourself religiously, no messing around.
  • Find and hire a CPA, even if it not the kind like Peter Lang who works with you each month and it is just one who will see to it the quarterly and yearly taxes are filed and paid.
  • LuAnn breaks down exactly how she would spend the $9,000.
  • Final thoughts: Invest in your business but also invest time in planning how you will make money. Be steadfast in doing it!
  • Check out SCORE, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small business owners get off the ground, set and achieve their goals through free educational resources, and offers free mentoring from retired business people.

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED AND TAG IN SM:

Laurel Smith’s episode #545

Nate Berkus’s episode, #433

Jamie Lieberman’s episode #’s 454 and #547.

Kim Worswick’s episode #234

 

]]> 2322 no 598: Judith Taylor: How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/598judith-taylor-how-an-introvert-networks-in-an-extroverted-industry Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Judith Taylor of Judith Taylor Designs returns as a guest today to share her ideas on networking for introverts. As Judith says, it can be a struggle to be an introvert in an extrovert’s industry! She has many things to say that can help not just introverts, but anybody looking to strengthen their networking skills. Listen in to this fascinating conversation about how you can set yourself up for success, even if you’re an introvert, and how to overcome the challenges when it comes to networking. Judith is an international award-winning designer with a flair for making personal, meaningful spaces. She is the granddaughter of a once-prominent furniture manufacturer, and as such, is passionate about style and the tradition of quality fine furniture making. Liveably luxury is achieved through her timeless aesthetic. Classic details, and refined clean lines anchor a love of the mix of contemporary traditional, and global influences. Mixing patterns, unexpected combinations, dressmaker’s details, and often vibrant colours distinguish her style.  A few things you may not know about her: She started her career in Information Technology as a mainframe programmer/analyst but after 20 years as an IT consultant, her love of colour and pattern got the better of her. While working in IT, she also completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and later studied fine art at Toronto School of Art, and then most recently she studied Interior Design at the International Academy of Design and Technology where she received High Honours for her work. She is the first (and so far only) Canadian to have won a “Designer of the Year” award from the Interior Design Society out of High Point North Carolina, and was also the first to win Crate and Barrel’s “designer challenge” and you can see the “Judith chair” on the “about” page on her website, or sit on the winning entry in her living room (by invitation only)! She enjoys travel and always looks forward to spending more time at their summer place at Cape Cod. Follow along with her blog to read posts about her travels, her design insight, and lifestyle thoughts that cross her mind. She hopes you enjoy the read.  Show Highlights: Judith shares her personal experience with introversion. There’s a difference between being shy and being an introvert. Judith reveals the ingenious way she prepares herself for a group event. Avoid delivering phony-sounding elevator pitches. Tips and tactics for networking at group events. How Judith handles consultations. Since introverts tend to look inward and be self-critical, Judith had to learn to turn her vision towards her client and assess them. Marketing and writing is a place for introverts and shy people to shine. Building connections is what Judith attributes to getting her jobs. If you care, and you want to help people, potential cients are going to see that. Judith imparts her final thoughts and suggestions on getting new clients. Connect with Judith! Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Blog Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #340 Judith Taylor: Strategies for Working with Family and Friends #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time   Tue, 06 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Judith Taylor: How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry full 598 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Judith Taylor of Judith Taylor Designs returns as a guest today to share her ideas on networking for introverts. As Judith says, it can be a struggle to be an introvert in an extrovert’s industry! She has many... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Judith Taylor of Judith Taylor Designs returns as a guest today to share her ideas on networking for introverts. As Judith says, it can be a struggle to be an introvert in an extrovert’s industry! She has many things to say that can help not just introverts, but anybody looking to strengthen their networking skills. Listen in to this fascinating conversation about how you can set yourself up for success, even if you’re an introvert, and how to overcome the challenges when it comes to networking. Judith is an international award-winning designer with a flair for making personal, meaningful spaces. She is the granddaughter of a once-prominent furniture manufacturer, and as such, is passionate about style and the tradition of quality fine furniture making. Liveably luxury is achieved through her timeless aesthetic. Classic details, and refined clean lines anchor a love of the mix of contemporary traditional, and global influences. Mixing patterns, unexpected combinations, dressmaker’s details, and often vibrant colours distinguish her style.  A few things you may not know about her: She started her career in Information Technology as a mainframe programmer/analyst but after 20 years as an IT consultant, her love of colour and pattern got the better of her. While working in IT, she also completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and later studied fine art at Toronto School of Art, and then most recently she studied Interior Design at the International Academy of Design and Technology where she received High Honours for her work. She is the first (and so far only) Canadian to have won a “Designer of the Year” award from the Interior Design Society out of High Point North Carolina, and was also the first to win Crate and Barrel’s “designer challenge” and you can see the “Judith chair” on the “about” page on her website, or sit on the winning entry in her living room (by invitation only)! She enjoys travel and always looks forward to spending more time at their summer place at Cape Cod. Follow along with her blog to read posts about her travels, her design insight, and lifestyle thoughts that cross her mind. She hopes you enjoy the read.  Show Highlights: Judith shares her personal experience with introversion. There’s a difference between being shy and being an introvert. Judith reveals the ingenious way she prepares herself for a group event. Avoid delivering phony-sounding elevator pitches. Tips and tactics for networking at group events. How Judith handles consultations. Since introverts tend to look inward and be self-critical, Judith had to learn to turn her vision towards her client and assess them. Marketing and writing is a place for introverts and shy people to shine. Building connections is what Judith attributes to getting her jobs. If you care, and you want to help people, potential cients are going to see that. Judith imparts her final thoughts and suggestions on getting new clients. Connect with Judith! Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Blog Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #340 Judith Taylor: Strategies for Working with Family and Friends #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset #475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Judith Taylor of Judith Taylor Designs returns as a guest today to share her ideas on networking for introverts. As Judith says, it can be a struggle to be an introvert in an extrovert’s industry! She has many things to say that can help not just introverts, but anybody looking to strengthen their networking skills. Listen in to this fascinating conversation about how you can set yourself up for success, even if you’re an introvert, and how to overcome the challenges when it comes to networking.

Judith is an international award-winning designer with a flair for making personal, meaningful spaces. She is the granddaughter of a once-prominent furniture manufacturer, and as such, is passionate about style and the tradition of quality fine furniture making.

Liveably luxury is achieved through her timeless aesthetic. Classic details, and refined clean lines anchor a love of the mix of contemporary traditional, and global influences. Mixing patterns, unexpected combinations, dressmaker’s details, and often vibrant colours distinguish her style. 

A few things you may not know about her:

She started her career in Information Technology as a mainframe programmer/analyst but after 20 years as an IT consultant, her love of colour and pattern got the better of her. While working in IT, she also completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and later studied fine art at Toronto School of Art, and then most recently she studied Interior Design at the International Academy of Design and Technology where she received High Honours for her work.

She is the first (and so far only) Canadian to have won a “Designer of the Year” award from the Interior Design Society out of High Point North Carolina, and was also the first to win Crate and Barrel’s “designer challenge” and you can see the “Judith chair” on the “about” page on her website, or sit on the winning entry in her living room (by invitation only)!

She enjoys travel and always looks forward to spending more time at their summer place at Cape Cod.

Follow along with her blog to read posts about her travels, her design insight, and lifestyle thoughts that cross her mind. She hopes you enjoy the read. 



Show Highlights:

  • Judith shares her personal experience with introversion.
  • There’s a difference between being shy and being an introvert.
  • Judith reveals the ingenious way she prepares herself for a group event.
  • Avoid delivering phony-sounding elevator pitches.
  • Tips and tactics for networking at group events.
  • How Judith handles consultations.
  • Since introverts tend to look inward and be self-critical, Judith had to learn to turn her vision towards her client and assess them.
  • Marketing and writing is a place for introverts and shy people to shine.
  • Building connections is what Judith attributes to getting her jobs.
  • If you care, and you want to help people, potential cients are going to see that.
  • Judith imparts her final thoughts and suggestions on getting new clients.

Connect with Judith!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Blog

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

#340 Judith Taylor: Strategies for Working with Family and Friends

#584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

#557 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset

#475 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time

 

]]> 3807 no 597: Power Talk Friday: Mary Pat Wallace:Designers, The Time Is Now to Grow Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/597-power-talk-friday-mary-pat-wallacedesigners-the-time-is-now-to-grow-your-business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Mary Pat Wallace, the founder of Chicago Luxury Beds, and today’s focus is the luxury client! Mary Pat shares important perspectives about the surprising  opportunities you have today in the midst of the pandemic, and not just how we can deal with it and accommodate it, but how we can truly serve our clients in a bigger and better way. She also shares her insights on how she’s managed to maintain an excellent client experience and continue to be a strong leader for her team, even in a retail setting, throughout the challenges of Covid-19. Listen in for an inspiring conversation! Mary is a 30-year veteran of the design industry. Committed to sourcing the highest-quality, bespoke mattresses and sleep products from across the globe, Mary Pat and her team of experts have spent the last 15 years helping clients transform their lives through sleep. Once she spent her first night in a Hästens bed, Mary Pat knew that mattresses should be viewed as a necessity in one’s life. Extensive experience in the design industry allowed Mary Pat to develop a perspective on value per use — we sleep a third of our lives, the mattress is the most important piece of furniture in the home. Restorative sleep is the foundation for optimum health. Having witnessed firsthand that the right mattress is critical to a deeply restful night of sleep she brought that experience and her unique expertise to the luxury market in Chicago, opening the first Hästens retail store in North America in 2005. Mary Pat eventually rebranded the business to Chicago Luxury Beds in order to expand her curated offerings. With the success and longevity of Chicago Luxury Beds, she opened a showroom in Dallas (Dallas Luxury Beds) furthering her team’s reach in helping clients get their best night of sleep. It is Mary Pat’s life passion to help clients create environments that are deeply restful and support transformational sleep. Show Highlights: As Mary Pat declares, “The time is NOW.” Due to the coronavirus, people are spending more time at home, and that is not likely to change. The luxury clients are working more from home, and they’re all considering how they can reconfigure their spaces to work more productively. Money from luxury clients is being reallocated and being refocused back at home. Mary Pat’s tips on how to revive your client list, even if it’s 15-20 years old. Mary Pat offers strategies for conducting your business virtually, while maintaining or increasing productivity. Being successful with the luxury client involves real expertise. Mary Pat expounds on this philosophy and what the luxury client wants from us. Listening to and understanding your client’s priorities within a budget is critical. Once a client and designer understand each other, the relationship is priceless. The collaborative buddy-system builds confidence with the client and reduces anxiety. Mary Pat explains how to do business with Chicago Luxury Beds. Connect with Mary Pat! Website Instagram Facebook Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.   Fri, 02 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Mary Pat Wallace:Designers, The Time Is Now to Grow Your Business full 597 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Mary Pat Wallace, the founder of Chicago Luxury Beds, and today’s focus is the luxury client! Mary Pat shares important perspectives about the surprising ... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Mary Pat Wallace, the founder of Chicago Luxury Beds, and today’s focus is the luxury client! Mary Pat shares important perspectives about the surprising  opportunities you have today in the midst of the pandemic, and not just how we can deal with it and accommodate it, but how we can truly serve our clients in a bigger and better way. She also shares her insights on how she’s managed to maintain an excellent client experience and continue to be a strong leader for her team, even in a retail setting, throughout the challenges of Covid-19. Listen in for an inspiring conversation! Mary is a 30-year veteran of the design industry. Committed to sourcing the highest-quality, bespoke mattresses and sleep products from across the globe, Mary Pat and her team of experts have spent the last 15 years helping clients transform their lives through sleep. Once she spent her first night in a Hästens bed, Mary Pat knew that mattresses should be viewed as a necessity in one’s life. Extensive experience in the design industry allowed Mary Pat to develop a perspective on value per use — we sleep a third of our lives, the mattress is the most important piece of furniture in the home. Restorative sleep is the foundation for optimum health. Having witnessed firsthand that the right mattress is critical to a deeply restful night of sleep she brought that experience and her unique expertise to the luxury market in Chicago, opening the first Hästens retail store in North America in 2005. Mary Pat eventually rebranded the business to Chicago Luxury Beds in order to expand her curated offerings. With the success and longevity of Chicago Luxury Beds, she opened a showroom in Dallas (Dallas Luxury Beds) furthering her team’s reach in helping clients get their best night of sleep. It is Mary Pat’s life passion to help clients create environments that are deeply restful and support transformational sleep. Show Highlights: As Mary Pat declares, “The time is NOW.” Due to the coronavirus, people are spending more time at home, and that is not likely to change. The luxury clients are working more from home, and they’re all considering how they can reconfigure their spaces to work more productively. Money from luxury clients is being reallocated and being refocused back at home. Mary Pat’s tips on how to revive your client list, even if it’s 15-20 years old. Mary Pat offers strategies for conducting your business virtually, while maintaining or increasing productivity. Being successful with the luxury client involves real expertise. Mary Pat expounds on this philosophy and what the luxury client wants from us. Listening to and understanding your client’s priorities within a budget is critical. Once a client and designer understand each other, the relationship is priceless. The collaborative buddy-system builds confidence with the client and reduces anxiety. Mary Pat explains how to do business with Chicago Luxury Beds. Connect with Mary Pat! Website Instagram Facebook Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s guest is Mary Pat Wallace, the founder of Chicago Luxury Beds, and today’s focus is the luxury client! Mary Pat shares important perspectives about the surprising  opportunities you have today in the midst of the pandemic, and not just how we can deal with it and accommodate it, but how we can truly serve our clients in a bigger and better way.

She also shares her insights on how she’s managed to maintain an excellent client experience and continue to be a strong leader for her team, even in a retail setting, throughout the challenges of Covid-19. Listen in for an inspiring conversation!

Mary is a 30-year veteran of the design industry. Committed to sourcing the highest-quality, bespoke mattresses and sleep products from across the globe, Mary Pat and her team of experts have spent the last 15 years helping clients transform their lives through sleep. Once she spent her first night in a Hästens bed, Mary Pat knew that mattresses should be viewed as a necessity in one’s life. Extensive experience in the design industry allowed Mary Pat to develop a perspective on value per use — we sleep a third of our lives, the mattress is the most important piece of furniture in the home. Restorative sleep is the foundation for optimum health. Having witnessed firsthand that the right mattress is critical to a deeply restful night of sleep she brought that experience and her unique expertise to the luxury market in Chicago, opening the first Hästens retail store in North America in 2005. Mary Pat eventually rebranded the business to Chicago Luxury Beds in order to expand her curated offerings. With the success and longevity of Chicago Luxury Beds, she opened a showroom in Dallas (Dallas Luxury Beds) furthering her team’s reach in helping clients get their best night of sleep. It is Mary Pat’s life passion to help clients create environments that are deeply restful and support transformational sleep.


Show Highlights:

  • As Mary Pat declares, “The time is NOW.”
  • Due to the coronavirus, people are spending more time at home, and that is not likely to change.
  • The luxury clients are working more from home, and they’re all considering how they can reconfigure their spaces to work more productively.
  • Money from luxury clients is being reallocated and being refocused back at home.
  • Mary Pat’s tips on how to revive your client list, even if it’s 15-20 years old.
  • Mary Pat offers strategies for conducting your business virtually, while maintaining or increasing productivity.
  • Being successful with the luxury client involves real expertise. Mary Pat expounds on this philosophy and what the luxury client wants from us.
  • Listening to and understanding your client’s priorities within a budget is critical.
  • Once a client and designer understand each other, the relationship is priceless.
  • The collaborative buddy-system builds confidence with the client and reduces anxiety.
  • Mary Pat explains how to do business with Chicago Luxury Beds.

Connect with Mary Pat!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

 

]]> 3941 no 596 #BLM: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/596blm-jamel-williams-a-call-to-create-opportunityandchange-at-the-university-level Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by Jamel Williams for another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series. As a young black designer and teacher, Jamel has a unique perspective on what can be done at the university-level to empower students of color. Please join us in this discussion on how mentorship in the university years could be a game-changer for all of our young designers, and especially our black designers, and Jamel’s suggestions on how schools can be that agent of change. Jamel Williams is a young and passionate Interior Designer, Educator, and Entrepreneur who specializes in Residential Interior Design in all of New York and surrounding areas. Shortly after graduating from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, Class of 2017 with a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Jamel founded To Be Designed, a full-service Interior Design Studio. Already having an undergraduate degree in Anthropology, his interests in people, cultures, and ways of life fuel his passion to approach design with a multidisciplinary perspective. His delicate persona, fortified drive, and a keen eye for detail provide the perfect foundation for every project he takes on, creating beautiful, and functional spaces in collaboration with his clients. Also passionate about design education, Jamel took on his first two higher education teaching positions during the Spring 2020 semester at both Pratt Institute and Parsons Open Campus at the New School. He has had the pleasure of teaching both technical and theoretical courses; namely, AutoCAD 1, Professional Practice for Interior Designers, Interior Design Portfolio, Residential Interior Design, and Now Construction and Assemblies. Jamel's active Interior Design practice and educational experience allow him to provide his students with the information needed in order to understand the principles of design so they too can create aesthetically beautiful, functional, and responsive spaces for their future clients. At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and racial injustice spread across America, there has been an increased need for awareness, representation, and social change. Jamel has begun to think about ways he can use his platform to evoke change within the industry he serves. Being in direct contact with aspiring Interior Design Students and being a Black Designer in the Industry, Jamel thinks that one actionable solution may be to create relationships between students of color and designers of color, through mentorship, to create a sense of community and support for the young designers who may feel underrepresented once they cross over into the world of Interior Design. Show Highlights: Jamel addresses the disparities he observed during design school. As Jamel points out, spaces are designed socially and politically to not reflect racism on the surface. It’s the systemic aspect of racism that prevents schools from addressing the issues. Systemic racism is strongly psychological and ingrained. We are all in a system of racism that none of us built but we are left to deal with the pyschological aspects of it. As a teacher at the prestigious Pratt Institute, Jamel’s philosophy is that all students should have a voice and that education should be conversational and collaborative. Ideally, Jamel would one day like to teach a course with a culture-centered curriculum. There seems to be a general disconnect in design education, beyond culture and race, because students do not have the opportunity to choose the track that is most meaninguful to them once they graduate. Offering more classes of diverse subject matters and giving the students opportunities to choose more of the classes they take is one solution to enabling design graduates a more personalized, meaningful career track. Jamel shares his thoughts on black culture in America. Jamel sees a wide-open opportunity for schools to promote community and empower young black designers by facilitating mentorship. True mentorship is a two-way street: The mentor also gains perspective, fresh ideas, and the joy that comes with paying it forward. Connect with Jamel! Website Instagram Facebook Great Resources From Jamel to Check Out! Architectural Digest: 25 Black Interior Designers Speak Frankly About Their Careers, Successes, and Challenges Interior Design: 7 African American Designers on How They're Pushing The Design Industry Forward The Designer's Workshop BAIDA Black Artists + Designers Guild Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Kravet Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering! When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Thu, 01 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000 #BLM: Jamel Williams: A Call to Create Opportunity and Change at the University Level full 596 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by Jamel Williams for another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series. As a young black designer and teacher, Jamel has a unique perspective on what can be done at the university-level to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by Jamel Williams for another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series. As a young black designer and teacher, Jamel has a unique perspective on what can be done at the university-level to empower students of color. Please join us in this discussion on how mentorship in the university years could be a game-changer for all of our young designers, and especially our black designers, and Jamel’s suggestions on how schools can be that agent of change. Jamel Williams is a young and passionate Interior Designer, Educator, and Entrepreneur who specializes in Residential Interior Design in all of New York and surrounding areas. Shortly after graduating from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, Class of 2017 with a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Jamel founded To Be Designed, a full-service Interior Design Studio. Already having an undergraduate degree in Anthropology, his interests in people, cultures, and ways of life fuel his passion to approach design with a multidisciplinary perspective. His delicate persona, fortified drive, and a keen eye for detail provide the perfect foundation for every project he takes on, creating beautiful, and functional spaces in collaboration with his clients. Also passionate about design education, Jamel took on his first two higher education teaching positions during the Spring 2020 semester at both Pratt Institute and Parsons Open Campus at the New School. He has had the pleasure of teaching both technical and theoretical courses; namely, AutoCAD 1, Professional Practice for Interior Designers, Interior Design Portfolio, Residential Interior Design, and Now Construction and Assemblies. Jamel's active Interior Design practice and educational experience allow him to provide his students with the information needed in order to understand the principles of design so they too can create aesthetically beautiful, functional, and responsive spaces for their future clients. At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and racial injustice spread across America, there has been an increased need for awareness, representation, and social change. Jamel has begun to think about ways he can use his platform to evoke change within the industry he serves. Being in direct contact with aspiring Interior Design Students and being a Black Designer in the Industry, Jamel thinks that one actionable solution may be to create relationships between students of color and designers of color, through mentorship, to create a sense of community and support for the young designers who may feel underrepresented once they cross over into the world of Interior Design. Show Highlights: Jamel addresses the disparities he observed during design school. As Jamel points out, spaces are designed socially and politically to not reflect racism on the surface. It’s the systemic aspect of racism that prevents schools from addressing the issues. Systemic racism is strongly psychological and ingrained. We are all in a system of racism that none of us built but we are left to deal with the pyschological aspects of it. As a teacher at the prestigious Pratt Institute, Jamel’s philosophy is that all students should have a voice and that education should be conversational and collaborative. Ideally, Jamel would one day like to teach a course with a culture-centered curriculum. There seems to be a general disconnect in design education, beyond culture and race, because students do not have the opportunity to choose the track that is most meaninguful to them once they graduate. Offering more classes of diverse subject matters and giving the students opportunities to choose more of the classes they take is one solution to enabling design graduates a more personalized, meaningful career track. Jamel shares his thoughts on black culture in America. Jamel sees a wide-open opportunity for schools to promote community and empower young black designers by facilitating mentorship. True mentorship is a two-way street: The mentor also gains perspective, fresh ideas, and the joy that comes with paying it forward. Connect with Jamel! Website Instagram Facebook Great Resources From Jamel to Check Out! Architectural Digest: 25 Black Interior Designers Speak Frankly About Their Careers, Successes, and Challenges Interior Design: 7 African American Designers on How They're Pushing The Design Industry Forward The Designer's Workshop BAIDA Black Artists + Designers Guild Links : Design-Build For Profit Coming Back Soon! Increase Confidence, Increase Profits Coming Back in February 2021! The Profit Is In the Numbers Coming Back Soon! Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Kravet Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering! When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by Jamel Williams for another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series. As a young black designer and teacher, Jamel has a unique perspective on what can be done at the university-level to empower students of color. Please join us in this discussion on how mentorship in the university years could be a game-changer for all of our young designers, and especially our black designers, and Jamel’s suggestions on how schools can be that agent of change.

Jamel Williams is a young and passionate Interior Designer, Educator, and Entrepreneur who specializes in Residential Interior Design in all of New York and surrounding areas. Shortly after graduating from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, Class of 2017 with a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Jamel founded To Be Designed, a full-service Interior Design Studio. Already having an undergraduate degree in Anthropology, his interests in people, cultures, and ways of life fuel his passion to approach design with a multidisciplinary perspective. His delicate persona, fortified drive, and a keen eye for detail provide the perfect foundation for every project he takes on, creating beautiful, and functional spaces in collaboration with his clients.

Also passionate about design education, Jamel took on his first two higher education teaching positions during the Spring 2020 semester at both Pratt Institute and Parsons Open Campus at the New School. He has had the pleasure of teaching both technical and theoretical courses; namely, AutoCAD 1, Professional Practice for Interior Designers, Interior Design Portfolio, Residential Interior Design, and Now Construction and Assemblies. Jamel's active Interior Design practice and educational experience allow him to provide his students with the information needed in order to understand the principles of design so they too can create aesthetically beautiful, functional, and responsive spaces for their future clients.

At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and racial injustice spread across America, there has been an increased need for awareness, representation, and social change. Jamel has begun to think about ways he can use his platform to evoke change within the industry he serves. Being in direct contact with aspiring Interior Design Students and being a Black Designer in the Industry, Jamel thinks that one actionable solution may be to create relationships between students of color and designers of color, through mentorship, to create a sense of community and support for the young designers who may feel underrepresented once they cross over into the world of Interior Design.




Show Highlights:

  • Jamel addresses the disparities he observed during design school.
  • As Jamel points out, spaces are designed socially and politically to not reflect racism on the surface. It’s the systemic aspect of racism that prevents schools from addressing the issues.
  • Systemic racism is strongly psychological and ingrained. We are all in a system of racism that none of us built but we are left to deal with the pyschological aspects of it.
  • As a teacher at the prestigious Pratt Institute, Jamel’s philosophy is that all students should have a voice and that education should be conversational and collaborative.
  • Ideally, Jamel would one day like to teach a course with a culture-centered curriculum.
  • There seems to be a general disconnect in design education, beyond culture and race, because students do not have the opportunity to choose the track that is most meaninguful to them once they graduate.
  • Offering more classes of diverse subject matters and giving the students opportunities to choose more of the classes they take is one solution to enabling design graduates a more personalized, meaningful career track.
  • Jamel shares his thoughts on black culture in America.
  • Jamel sees a wide-open opportunity for schools to promote community and empower young black designers by facilitating mentorship.
  • True mentorship is a two-way street: The mentor also gains perspective, fresh ideas, and the joy that comes with paying it forward.

Connect with Jamel!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Great Resources From Jamel to Check Out!

Architectural Digest: 25 Black Interior Designers Speak Frankly About Their Careers, Successes, and Challenges

Interior Design: 7 African American Designers on How They're Pushing The Design Industry Forward

The Designer's Workshop

BAIDA

Black Artists + Designers Guild

Links :

Design-Build For Profit

Coming Back Soon!

Increase Confidence, Increase Profits

Coming Back in February 2021!

The Profit Is In the Numbers

Coming Back Soon!

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Kravet

Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering!

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

 

]]> 4083 no 595: Karin Bohn: Mastery of the 80% Business Provides Freedom For The 20% Creative http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/595-karin-bohn-mastery-of-the-80-business-provides-freedom-for-the-20-creative Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We’re super excited to have Karin Bohn join us on the show today. Karin Bohn is the founder and creative director of the award-winning House of Bohn design studio. She established the interior design firm in 2009 and has made her mark in many industries including luxury residential, multi-family, restaurants, and retail. Karin stars on Netflix’s Restaurants on the Edge in which she travels with a team of experts to provide design, marketing, and culinary consultation to establishments in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. With her continuously growing YouTube channel, Karin offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of her creative process, collaborative partnerships, and life as an entrepreneur. Listen in to hear how in 11 years, Karin went from struggling to start a design business all the way to having a Netflix show and managing a luxury interior design firm with a team of 10! Show Highlights: The first few years of Karin’s YouTube videos showcased her challenging entrepreneurial journey. As Karin explains, her Netflix series did not come about because of her YouTube channel. You don’t have to be perfect to start something new, just start! Learn as you go. Karin shares her pivotal moment regarding her realization that she needed to develop her business skills before she could take advantage of her creative side. Karin discusses the current structure of her design, operations, and content teams. Why ‘alignment’ is Karin’s favorite word right now. Building a brand must include consistency. People need to be able to recognize a brand’s repeated aesthetic cues. Karin divulges her client budgeting tactics. LuAnn and Karin discuss the frustration of hiring new employees. The struggle over writing job descriptions and adding new team members can be solved by using Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit. Remember your vision! You do have a vision, right? Connect with Karin! Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM #237,#325, #485 Claire Jefford #363, #589 Eileen Hahn   Tue, 29 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Karin Bohn: Mastery of the 80% Business Provides Freedom For The 20% Creative full 595 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We’re super excited to have Karin Bohn join us on the show today. Karin Bohn is the founder and creative director of the award-winning House of Bohn design studio. She established the interior design firm in 2009... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We’re super excited to have Karin Bohn join us on the show today. Karin Bohn is the founder and creative director of the award-winning House of Bohn design studio. She established the interior design firm in 2009 and has made her mark in many industries including luxury residential, multi-family, restaurants, and retail. Karin stars on Netflix’s Restaurants on the Edge in which she travels with a team of experts to provide design, marketing, and culinary consultation to establishments in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. With her continuously growing YouTube channel, Karin offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of her creative process, collaborative partnerships, and life as an entrepreneur. Listen in to hear how in 11 years, Karin went from struggling to start a design business all the way to having a Netflix show and managing a luxury interior design firm with a team of 10! Show Highlights: The first few years of Karin’s YouTube videos showcased her challenging entrepreneurial journey. As Karin explains, her Netflix series did not come about because of her YouTube channel. You don’t have to be perfect to start something new, just start! Learn as you go. Karin shares her pivotal moment regarding her realization that she needed to develop her business skills before she could take advantage of her creative side. Karin discusses the current structure of her design, operations, and content teams. Why ‘alignment’ is Karin’s favorite word right now. Building a brand must include consistency. People need to be able to recognize a brand’s repeated aesthetic cues. Karin divulges her client budgeting tactics. LuAnn and Karin discuss the frustration of hiring new employees. The struggle over writing job descriptions and adding new team members can be solved by using Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit. Remember your vision! You do have a vision, right? Connect with Karin! Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Links : Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM #237,#325, #485 Claire Jefford #363, #589 Eileen Hahn   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We’re super excited to have Karin Bohn join us on the show today.

Karin Bohn is the founder and creative director of the award-winning House of Bohn design studio. She established the interior design firm in 2009 and has made her mark in many industries including luxury residential, multi-family, restaurants, and retail.

Karin stars on Netflix’s Restaurants on the Edge in which she travels with a team of experts to provide design, marketing, and culinary consultation to establishments in some of the most beautiful locations in the world.

With her continuously growing YouTube channel, Karin offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of her creative process, collaborative partnerships, and life as an entrepreneur.

Listen in to hear how in 11 years, Karin went from struggling to start a design business all the way to having a Netflix show and managing a luxury interior design firm with a team of 10!

Show Highlights:

  • The first few years of Karin’s YouTube videos showcased her challenging entrepreneurial journey.
  • As Karin explains, her Netflix series did not come about because of her YouTube channel.
  • You don’t have to be perfect to start something new, just start! Learn as you go.
  • Karin shares her pivotal moment regarding her realization that she needed to develop her business skills before she could take advantage of her creative side.
  • Karin discusses the current structure of her design, operations, and content teams.
  • Why ‘alignment’ is Karin’s favorite word right now.
  • Building a brand must include consistency. People need to be able to recognize a brand’s repeated aesthetic cues.
  • Karin divulges her client budgeting tactics.
  • LuAnn and Karin discuss the frustration of hiring new employees. The struggle over writing job descriptions and adding new team members can be solved by using Eileen B. Hahn's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkit.
  • Remember your vision! You do have a vision, right?

Connect with Karin!

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Links :

Process Leads to Profits - Returning November 2020! Learn the Four P’s of design from Sara Lynn Brennan: Processes, Partnerships, Packages, and Profits…as well as the “secret sauce” that has doubled her business in the last year! Sign Up For Updates HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch

Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM

#237,#325, #485 Claire Jefford

#363, #589 Eileen Hahn

 

]]> 5011 no 594:  Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/594-reena-philpot-ideas-for-flexing-your-sales-muscles Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today, Reena Philpot joins us to share her love of sales - and you’ll never guess what she’s selling! Reena (pronounced “Re-Nay”) and her husband own Precision Duplicating Solutions, and for 18 years, Reena’s helped build a successful business selling...copiers. That’s right folks - she sells pricey copy machines - and she loves it! It doesn’t matter what you’re selling, because sales is sales, and Reena’s techniques can absolutely be applied to the design business. Listen in to learn what sales tactics Reena has used to build her business, and how you can apply them to your own business to bring in those dollar bills! Daily Reena manages the sales side of the business and part of the admin duties. She started her career as a telemarketer/appointment setter 26 years ago. She quickly transitioned to outside sales and vowed it was so awesome she would learn how to become successful. When her boys had grown into young men and needed her less, Reena started joining some masterminds and groups of ladies with amazing businesses.  Through that process, she learned she had something to offer them to help them grow their businesses.  While Reena has had the advantages of learning sales and a process and then starting a business, not everyone has had the same opportunity. Reena began using her background in high-ticket competitive sales and experience as a business owner to help other entrepreneurs and teams increase their customer base and sales revenue.  Reena Philpot Sales Coaching began last year, and now she offers strategy sessions, workshops, and VIP days to those who want results. Show Highlights: You must first know your value, then you must be able to convey that value to your client. Reena discusses her techniques on proposals and contracts. When assessing their needs, t’s important to repeat back to the client what you are hearing them say. Repeating their words back to them both clears up any misunderstanding and makes the client feel heard. Ask the client if your assessment is corrent. When they say yes, then you can give them a simple solution to their problem. Save the little details for the contract. By this time, you have already worked out the details. You will bring the details as backup just in case your client is interested in that leveal of knowledge. Using these tactics, it’s simply a conversation between two people about a problem they have and the solution you can give them. There is nothing needy or manipulative about it. While the client is absorbing the proposal, give them a moment then ask, “What do you think? Is that what you were thinking? If the client doesn’t seem happy with the proposal, ask, “How do you feel about that?” then stay silent and wait for them to speak. Find out what’s important to your client. If you give them the opportunity, they’ll tell you exactly how to sell to them. Reena shares how she has hand-picked 90% of her customers. Reena describes her brilliantly unique sales pipeline. Connect with Reena! Reena’s Website FREE! How to Develop Questions to Improve Closing Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Facebook Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Instagram Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - LinkedIn Links : Carol’s Virtual Summit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet   Fri, 25 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles full 594 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today, Reena Philpot joins us to share her love of sales - and you’ll never guess what she’s selling! Reena (pronounced “Re-Nay”) and her husband own Precision Duplicating... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today, Reena Philpot joins us to share her love of sales - and you’ll never guess what she’s selling! Reena (pronounced “Re-Nay”) and her husband own Precision Duplicating Solutions, and for 18 years, Reena’s helped build a successful business selling...copiers. That’s right folks - she sells pricey copy machines - and she loves it! It doesn’t matter what you’re selling, because sales is sales, and Reena’s techniques can absolutely be applied to the design business. Listen in to learn what sales tactics Reena has used to build her business, and how you can apply them to your own business to bring in those dollar bills! Daily Reena manages the sales side of the business and part of the admin duties. She started her career as a telemarketer/appointment setter 26 years ago. She quickly transitioned to outside sales and vowed it was so awesome she would learn how to become successful. When her boys had grown into young men and needed her less, Reena started joining some masterminds and groups of ladies with amazing businesses.  Through that process, she learned she had something to offer them to help them grow their businesses.  While Reena has had the advantages of learning sales and a process and then starting a business, not everyone has had the same opportunity. Reena began using her background in high-ticket competitive sales and experience as a business owner to help other entrepreneurs and teams increase their customer base and sales revenue.  Reena Philpot Sales Coaching began last year, and now she offers strategy sessions, workshops, and VIP days to those who want results. Show Highlights: You must first know your value, then you must be able to convey that value to your client. Reena discusses her techniques on proposals and contracts. When assessing their needs, t’s important to repeat back to the client what you are hearing them say. Repeating their words back to them both clears up any misunderstanding and makes the client feel heard. Ask the client if your assessment is corrent. When they say yes, then you can give them a simple solution to their problem. Save the little details for the contract. By this time, you have already worked out the details. You will bring the details as backup just in case your client is interested in that leveal of knowledge. Using these tactics, it’s simply a conversation between two people about a problem they have and the solution you can give them. There is nothing needy or manipulative about it. While the client is absorbing the proposal, give them a moment then ask, “What do you think? Is that what you were thinking? If the client doesn’t seem happy with the proposal, ask, “How do you feel about that?” then stay silent and wait for them to speak. Find out what’s important to your client. If you give them the opportunity, they’ll tell you exactly how to sell to them. Reena shares how she has hand-picked 90% of her customers. Reena describes her brilliantly unique sales pipeline. Connect with Reena! Reena’s Website FREE! How to Develop Questions to Improve Closing Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Facebook Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Instagram Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - LinkedIn Links : Carol’s Virtual Summit LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today, Reena Philpot joins us to share her love of sales - and you’ll never guess what she’s selling!

Reena (pronounced “Re-Nay”) and her husband own Precision Duplicating Solutions, and for 18 years, Reena’s helped build a successful business selling...copiers. That’s right folks - she sells pricey copy machines - and she loves it! It doesn’t matter what you’re selling, because sales is sales, and Reena’s techniques can absolutely be applied to the design business.

Listen in to learn what sales tactics Reena has used to build her business, and how you can apply them to your own business to bring in those dollar bills!

Daily Reena manages the sales side of the business and part of the admin duties. She started her career as a telemarketer/appointment setter 26 years ago. She quickly transitioned to outside sales and vowed it was so awesome she would learn how to become successful.

When her boys had grown into young men and needed her less, Reena started joining some masterminds and groups of ladies with amazing businesses.  Through that process, she learned she had something to offer them to help them grow their businesses.  While Reena has had the advantages of learning sales and a process and then starting a business, not everyone has had the same opportunity.

Reena began using her background in high-ticket competitive sales and experience as a business owner to help other entrepreneurs and teams increase their customer base and sales revenue.  Reena Philpot Sales Coaching began last year, and now she offers strategy sessions, workshops, and VIP days to those who want results.

Show Highlights:

  • You must first know your value, then you must be able to convey that value to your client.
  • Reena discusses her techniques on proposals and contracts.
  • When assessing their needs, t’s important to repeat back to the client what you are hearing them say. Repeating their words back to them both clears up any misunderstanding and makes the client feel heard.
  • Ask the client if your assessment is corrent. When they say yes, then you can give them a simple solution to their problem.
  • Save the little details for the contract. By this time, you have already worked out the details. You will bring the details as backup just in case your client is interested in that leveal of knowledge.
  • Using these tactics, it’s simply a conversation between two people about a problem they have and the solution you can give them. There is nothing needy or manipulative about it.
  • While the client is absorbing the proposal, give them a moment then ask, “What do you think? Is that what you were thinking?
  • If the client doesn’t seem happy with the proposal, ask, “How do you feel about that?” then stay silent and wait for them to speak.
  • Find out what’s important to your client. If you give them the opportunity, they’ll tell you exactly how to sell to them.
  • Reena shares how she has hand-picked 90% of her customers.
  • Reena describes her brilliantly unique sales pipeline.

Connect with Reena!

Reena’s Website

FREE! How to Develop Questions to Improve Closing

Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Facebook

Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - Instagram

Reena Philpot Sales Coaching - LinkedIn

Links :

Carol’s Virtual Summit

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet

 

]]> 3640 no 593: Debbie Mathews: Systems for Stress-Free Growth http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/593-debbie-mathews-systems-for-stress-free-growth Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Debbie Mathews of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC, and Debbie will be walking us through easily implementable, effective systems to take care of all those tiny details so that we have the time to focus on the big things in our business. Debbie revamped her growing business to ensure she and her team are less stressed while consistently providing their clients with an A+ experience. Be sure to listen and see if some of her ideas will help you be more productive and less stressed, too! Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC is a full-service interior design firm that specializes in high-end residential projects. From new construction to simple refreshes, their goal is to realize each room’s greatest potential. With a keen focus to detail, their team works collaboratively with clients to navigate through the many decisions involved with high-quality, custom design work. Clients repeatedly tell them that their diverse experience, infectious energy, and unparalleled service make the process efficient and enjoyable. Debbie’s passion for beautiful things, paired with her love of antiques and timeless architecture, gives each of their interiors a sense of history and purpose. She is uniquely recognized for her hallmark design aesthetic of anchoring a room with timeless antiques and layering in more contemporary furniture and accessories. Her 30+ years of experience buying and selling fine antiques has proven to be a design distinction often unmatched. Because of this dedication to timeless and classic elements of design, her projects always reflect charm, warmth, and curated beauty. Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC welcomes the opportunity to showcase their mantra to you: Timeless. Collected. Beautiful. Show Highlights: “As my business grows, it does not mean that my plate gets larger.” Growing pains forced Debbie to take a look at what was on her plate, and what could be delegated. The biggest gift Debbie ever gave herself was when she outsourced her bookkeeping and accounting services. Debbie discusses the project management software that she has implemented to streamline her work. After 30 years of being in business, Debbie starts tracking her metrics. Being proactive rather than reactive has been Debbie’s focus over the last year. Debbie learned from reading LuAnn’s books, The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action and A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, plus the classic The E-Myth. “The Daily Checklist” is something Debbie and her team members use each day and it gives them all confidence that the office administration can get done if Debbie needs to be away from work. What is covered in their weekly and monthly meetings. Debbie is a new member of EO - The Entrepreneur Organization, and she shares how impactful it has been for her. How to set a really good rhythm to the week, set expectations with the team, and let everyone consistently plan by time-blocking. Client meetings involve a designer that takes minutes for a comprehensive summary of the entire visit, which are later turned over to the client for confirmation that everyone is on the same page. You only have one chance to make a good first impression on a client, and these steps that Debbie has implemented has given her confidence that she will. Connect with Debbie! Debbie’s Website Debbie’s Instagram Debbie’s Facebook Debbie’s Pinterest Debbie’s Email Links : LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business   Tue, 22 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Debbie Mathews: Systems for Stress-Free Growth full 593 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Debbie Mathews of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC, and Debbie will be walking us through easily implementable, effective systems to take care of all those tiny details so that we... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Debbie Mathews of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC, and Debbie will be walking us through easily implementable, effective systems to take care of all those tiny details so that we have the time to focus on the big things in our business. Debbie revamped her growing business to ensure she and her team are less stressed while consistently providing their clients with an A+ experience. Be sure to listen and see if some of her ideas will help you be more productive and less stressed, too! Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC is a full-service interior design firm that specializes in high-end residential projects. From new construction to simple refreshes, their goal is to realize each room’s greatest potential. With a keen focus to detail, their team works collaboratively with clients to navigate through the many decisions involved with high-quality, custom design work. Clients repeatedly tell them that their diverse experience, infectious energy, and unparalleled service make the process efficient and enjoyable. Debbie’s passion for beautiful things, paired with her love of antiques and timeless architecture, gives each of their interiors a sense of history and purpose. She is uniquely recognized for her hallmark design aesthetic of anchoring a room with timeless antiques and layering in more contemporary furniture and accessories. Her 30+ years of experience buying and selling fine antiques has proven to be a design distinction often unmatched. Because of this dedication to timeless and classic elements of design, her projects always reflect charm, warmth, and curated beauty. Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC welcomes the opportunity to showcase their mantra to you: Timeless. Collected. Beautiful. Show Highlights: “As my business grows, it does not mean that my plate gets larger.” Growing pains forced Debbie to take a look at what was on her plate, and what could be delegated. The biggest gift Debbie ever gave herself was when she outsourced her bookkeeping and accounting services. Debbie discusses the project management software that she has implemented to streamline her work. After 30 years of being in business, Debbie starts tracking her metrics. Being proactive rather than reactive has been Debbie’s focus over the last year. Debbie learned from reading LuAnn’s books, The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action and A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, plus the classic The E-Myth. “The Daily Checklist” is something Debbie and her team members use each day and it gives them all confidence that the office administration can get done if Debbie needs to be away from work. What is covered in their weekly and monthly meetings. Debbie is a new member of EO - The Entrepreneur Organization, and she shares how impactful it has been for her. How to set a really good rhythm to the week, set expectations with the team, and let everyone consistently plan by time-blocking. Client meetings involve a designer that takes minutes for a comprehensive summary of the entire visit, which are later turned over to the client for confirmation that everyone is on the same page. You only have one chance to make a good first impression on a client, and these steps that Debbie has implemented has given her confidence that she will. Connect with Debbie! Debbie’s Website Debbie’s Instagram Debbie’s Facebook Debbie’s Pinterest Debbie’s Email Links : LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Debbie Mathews of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC, and Debbie will be walking us through easily implementable, effective systems to take care of all those tiny details so that we have the time to focus on the big things in our business. Debbie revamped her growing business to ensure she and her team are less stressed while consistently providing their clients with an A+ experience. Be sure to listen and see if some of her ideas will help you be more productive and less stressed, too!

Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC is a full-service interior design firm that specializes in high-end residential projects. From new construction to simple refreshes, their goal is to realize each room’s greatest potential. With a keen focus to detail, their team works collaboratively with clients to navigate through the many decisions involved with high-quality, custom design work. Clients repeatedly tell them that their diverse experience, infectious energy, and unparalleled service make the process efficient and enjoyable. Debbie’s passion for beautiful things, paired with her love of antiques and timeless architecture, gives each of their interiors a sense of history and purpose. She is uniquely recognized for her hallmark design aesthetic of anchoring a room with timeless antiques and layering in more contemporary furniture and accessories. Her 30+ years of experience buying and selling fine antiques has proven to be a design distinction often unmatched. Because of this dedication to timeless and classic elements of design, her projects always reflect charm, warmth, and curated beauty. Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs, LLC welcomes the opportunity to showcase their mantra to you: Timeless. Collected. Beautiful.



Show Highlights:

  • “As my business grows, it does not mean that my plate gets larger.”
  • Growing pains forced Debbie to take a look at what was on her plate, and what could be delegated.
  • The biggest gift Debbie ever gave herself was when she outsourced her bookkeeping and accounting services.
  • Debbie discusses the project management software that she has implemented to streamline her work.
  • After 30 years of being in business, Debbie starts tracking her metrics.
  • Being proactive rather than reactive has been Debbie’s focus over the last year.
  • Debbie learned from reading LuAnn’s books, The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action and A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, plus the classic The E-Myth.
  • “The Daily Checklist” is something Debbie and her team members use each day and it gives them all confidence that the office administration can get done if Debbie needs to be away from work.
  • What is covered in their weekly and monthly meetings.
  • Debbie is a new member of EO - The Entrepreneur Organization, and she shares how impactful it has been for her.
  • How to set a really good rhythm to the week, set expectations with the team, and let everyone consistently plan by time-blocking.
  • Client meetings involve a designer that takes minutes for a comprehensive summary of the entire visit, which are later turned over to the client for confirmation that everyone is on the same page.
  • You only have one chance to make a good first impression on a client, and these steps that Debbie has implemented has given her confidence that she will.

Connect with Debbie!

Debbie’s Website

Debbie’s Instagram

Debbie’s Facebook

Debbie’s Pinterest

Debbie’s Email

Links :

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

 

]]> 3884 no 592: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/592-power-talk-friday-kimberly-merlitti-profitable-firms-build-estimates-before-they-sign-the-contract Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Kimberly Merlitti, the Virtual CFO, back to the show. Kimberly also happens to be one of the co-authors for our third book, A Well-Designed Business, Power Talk Experts Volume 2, which is coming out in November. On today’s show, Kimberly is sharing with us the importance of preparing an estimate for your job before you sign a contract. If there’s one thing Kimberly knows, it’s numbers! And she is going to walk you through not only WHY preparing an estimate at the very beginning is important, but also how to do this the right way, how to stay on track, and how to rely on data, so that you’re not playing a guessing game and risking losing money in your business. Because at the end of the day, you are not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur, right? Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly’s clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Show Highlights: Kimberly sums up WHY you need to learn how to estimate. Kimberly has a streamlined process when it comes to teaching others how to estimate. Tracking your time and taking really good notes is imperative, not only for interior designers but for architects and contractors, as well. What to do if the job is outside of the original scope. Respect a client’s time and money, and they will be thankful for it. Although Kimberly can be hired to teach how to estimate, she explains the way that you can also teach yourself using these four categories: Design fee Purchasing fee Installation fee Indoor & Outdoor furniture fee Tracking your time is one of the biggest factors in your profitability. Have cross-checks in place. Confidence is in the knowledge and execution of the process and makes fielding clients’ questions more systematic. If you’re new in the business, here’s Kimberly’s advice! The data drives your whole company. You’re not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur. FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract (Without Just Guessing!) - get yours HERE! Connect with Kimberly! Kimberly’s Website Kimberly’s Facebook Kimberly’s LinkedIn Kimberly’s Email Links : FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract (Without Just Guessing!) Available in Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link: #361 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? #442 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Do You Know Your Cash on Hand Number? #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets   Fri, 18 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract full 592 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Kimberly Merlitti, the Virtual CFO, back to the show. Kimberly also happens to be one of the co-authors for our third book, A Well-Designed Business, Power Talk Experts... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Kimberly Merlitti, the Virtual CFO, back to the show. Kimberly also happens to be one of the co-authors for our third book, A Well-Designed Business, Power Talk Experts Volume 2, which is coming out in November. On today’s show, Kimberly is sharing with us the importance of preparing an estimate for your job before you sign a contract. If there’s one thing Kimberly knows, it’s numbers! And she is going to walk you through not only WHY preparing an estimate at the very beginning is important, but also how to do this the right way, how to stay on track, and how to rely on data, so that you’re not playing a guessing game and risking losing money in your business. Because at the end of the day, you are not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur, right? Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly’s clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Show Highlights: Kimberly sums up WHY you need to learn how to estimate. Kimberly has a streamlined process when it comes to teaching others how to estimate. Tracking your time and taking really good notes is imperative, not only for interior designers but for architects and contractors, as well. What to do if the job is outside of the original scope. Respect a client’s time and money, and they will be thankful for it. Although Kimberly can be hired to teach how to estimate, she explains the way that you can also teach yourself using these four categories: Design fee Purchasing fee Installation fee Indoor & Outdoor furniture fee Tracking your time is one of the biggest factors in your profitability. Have cross-checks in place. Confidence is in the knowledge and execution of the process and makes fielding clients’ questions more systematic. If you’re new in the business, here’s Kimberly’s advice! The data drives your whole company. You’re not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur. FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract (Without Just Guessing!) - get yours HERE! Connect with Kimberly! Kimberly’s Website Kimberly’s Facebook Kimberly’s LinkedIn Kimberly’s Email Links : FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract (Without Just Guessing!) Available in Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link: #361 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? #442 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Do You Know Your Cash on Hand Number? #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Kimberly Merlitti, the Virtual CFO, back to the show. Kimberly also happens to be one of the co-authors for our third book, A Well-Designed Business, Power Talk Experts Volume 2, which is coming out in November.

On today’s show, Kimberly is sharing with us the importance of preparing an estimate for your job before you sign a contract. If there’s one thing Kimberly knows, it’s numbers! And she is going to walk you through not only WHY preparing an estimate at the very beginning is important, but also how to do this the right way, how to stay on track, and how to rely on data, so that you’re not playing a guessing game and risking losing money in your business. Because at the end of the day, you are not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur, right?

Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly’s clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management.

Show Highlights:

  • Kimberly sums up WHY you need to learn how to estimate.
  • Kimberly has a streamlined process when it comes to teaching others how to estimate.
  • Tracking your time and taking really good notes is imperative, not only for interior designers but for architects and contractors, as well.
  • What to do if the job is outside of the original scope.
  • Respect a client’s time and money, and they will be thankful for it.
  • Although Kimberly can be hired to teach how to estimate, she explains the way that you can also teach yourself using these four categories:
    • Design fee
    • Purchasing fee
    • Installation fee
    • Indoor & Outdoor furniture fee
  • Tracking your time is one of the biggest factors in your profitability.
  • Have cross-checks in place.
  • Confidence is in the knowledge and execution of the process and makes fielding clients’ questions more systematic.
  • If you’re new in the business, here’s Kimberly’s advice!
  • The data drives your whole company. You’re not just a designer, you’re an entrepreneur.
  • FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract

(Without Just Guessing!) - get yours HERE!

Connect with Kimberly!

Kimberly’s Website

Kimberly’s Facebook

Kimberly’s LinkedIn

Kimberly’s Email

Links :

FREE From Kimberly: 7 Tips for Estimating BEFORE the Contract

(Without Just Guessing!)

Available in Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to link:

#361 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO?

#442 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Do You Know Your Cash on Hand Number?

#384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets

 

]]> 3766 no 591: #BLM Nicole White: Life Long Allyship http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/591-blm-nicole-white-life-long-allyship Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Nicole White, CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, back to the show. When they last visited, Nicole shared details about her client questionnaire, how she gets press, and the confidence she now has as a designer. On today’s Black Lives Matter episode, you’ll hear about Nicole’s business and personal life, viewed specifically through the filter of being black. As a trained journalist and Jamaican immigrant, Nicole has a unique perspective on what we can do to effect lasting change. We hope you join us! Nicole White is the CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, a full-service boutique interior design firm, based in Sunrise, Florida. Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has been featured in various local, national, and international publications including - HGTV, House Beautiful, Better Homes, and Gardens magazines; Ocean Drive, Huffington Post, and Domino online magazines and The Miami Herald and Jamaica Observer. Voted among the top 25 Interior Design Firms by the South Florida Luxury Guide, Nicole has also twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and was a recipient of the Z-Gallerie Design Award Fall/Winter 2013. Nicole is also a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Zephyr, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture. Before launching her successful design firm, Nicole was an award-winning journalist whose stories appeared in The Miami Herald, Village Voice, and Vibe magazine. Her combined love of design and writing spawned the creation of her blog,  Live Laugh Decorate, where she showcases the behind the scenes details of design projects, shares tips on affordable design ideas, and dishes about design trends. Her blog was nominated for Best Renovation Blog by Domino Magazine in 2018. A Jamaican native, Nicole is deeply inspired by the colors and textures of the Caribbean and constantly fuses those elements in her designs. Nicole prides herself on designing a home guided by her client’s passions, be it contemporary, traditional, vintage or modern. Nicole is an avid foodie and wine lover who is always busy plotting a travel escape. Her greatest design however is her 8-year-old son, Xavier – artist and dinosaur aficionado.   Show Highlights: Nicole is thankful that black interior designers are getting more attention since the BLM movement has gained momentum. Not because they’re black, but because they are talented. Addressing the topic of police officers (and how to behave around them) with your children is an added layer of life for black moms. Educating others about BLM should not be a burden to people of color. Be proactive in researching and reading about their issues so that you can have a more appropriate dialogue. Be a lifelong ally and speak up when you see injustice. Nicole shares intimate thoughts about the concerns that black interior designers face. How Nicole and her son, Xavier, builds relationships with community police officers. Nicole relates an upsetting experience at a high-end business event. Nicole offers encouragement and advice on what we can all do to make a difference. Connect with Nicole! Nicole’s Instagram Nicole’sFacebook Nicole’sTwitter Nicole’sPinterest Nicole’sWebsite Nicole’s Email Nicole’s Recommended Resources: Black Artists + Designers Guild Black Interior Designers Network  NAACP  Resources: Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned: Nicole's 1st appearance on the show: #366 #BLM Shows: #579 Albie Buabeng #573 Cheryl Luckett #568 Arianne Bellizaire #562 Rasheeda Gray #556 Kae Whitaker #549 Corey Damen Jenkins     Thu, 17 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 #BLM Nicole White: Life Long Allyship full 591 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Nicole White, CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, back to the show. When they last visited, Nicole shared details about her client questionnaire, how she gets press, and the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Nicole White, CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, back to the show. When they last visited, Nicole shared details about her client questionnaire, how she gets press, and the confidence she now has as a designer. On today’s Black Lives Matter episode, you’ll hear about Nicole’s business and personal life, viewed specifically through the filter of being black. As a trained journalist and Jamaican immigrant, Nicole has a unique perspective on what we can do to effect lasting change. We hope you join us! Nicole White is the CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, a full-service boutique interior design firm, based in Sunrise, Florida. Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has been featured in various local, national, and international publications including - HGTV, House Beautiful, Better Homes, and Gardens magazines; Ocean Drive, Huffington Post, and Domino online magazines and The Miami Herald and Jamaica Observer. Voted among the top 25 Interior Design Firms by the South Florida Luxury Guide, Nicole has also twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and was a recipient of the Z-Gallerie Design Award Fall/Winter 2013. Nicole is also a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Zephyr, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture. Before launching her successful design firm, Nicole was an award-winning journalist whose stories appeared in The Miami Herald, Village Voice, and Vibe magazine. Her combined love of design and writing spawned the creation of her blog,  Live Laugh Decorate, where she showcases the behind the scenes details of design projects, shares tips on affordable design ideas, and dishes about design trends. Her blog was nominated for Best Renovation Blog by Domino Magazine in 2018. A Jamaican native, Nicole is deeply inspired by the colors and textures of the Caribbean and constantly fuses those elements in her designs. Nicole prides herself on designing a home guided by her client’s passions, be it contemporary, traditional, vintage or modern. Nicole is an avid foodie and wine lover who is always busy plotting a travel escape. Her greatest design however is her 8-year-old son, Xavier – artist and dinosaur aficionado.   Show Highlights: Nicole is thankful that black interior designers are getting more attention since the BLM movement has gained momentum. Not because they’re black, but because they are talented. Addressing the topic of police officers (and how to behave around them) with your children is an added layer of life for black moms. Educating others about BLM should not be a burden to people of color. Be proactive in researching and reading about their issues so that you can have a more appropriate dialogue. Be a lifelong ally and speak up when you see injustice. Nicole shares intimate thoughts about the concerns that black interior designers face. How Nicole and her son, Xavier, builds relationships with community police officers. Nicole relates an upsetting experience at a high-end business event. Nicole offers encouragement and advice on what we can all do to make a difference. Connect with Nicole! Nicole’s Instagram Nicole’sFacebook Nicole’sTwitter Nicole’sPinterest Nicole’sWebsite Nicole’s Email Nicole’s Recommended Resources: Black Artists + Designers Guild Black Interior Designers Network  NAACP  Resources: Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned: Nicole's 1st appearance on the show: #366 #BLM Shows: #579 Albie Buabeng #573 Cheryl Luckett #568 Arianne Bellizaire #562 Rasheeda Gray #556 Kae Whitaker #549 Corey Damen Jenkins     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Nicole White, CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, back to the show. When they last visited, Nicole shared details about her client questionnaire, how she gets press, and the confidence she now has as a designer.

On today’s Black Lives Matter episode, you’ll hear about Nicole’s business and personal life, viewed specifically through the filter of being black.

As a trained journalist and Jamaican immigrant, Nicole has a unique perspective on what we can do to effect lasting change. We hope you join us!

Nicole White is the CEO and Principal Designer of Nicole White Designs Interiors, a full-service boutique interior design firm, based in Sunrise, Florida.

Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has been featured in various local, national, and international publications including - HGTV, House Beautiful, Better Homes, and Gardens magazines; Ocean Drive, Huffington Post, and Domino online magazines and The Miami Herald and Jamaica Observer. Voted among the top 25 Interior Design Firms by the South Florida Luxury Guide, Nicole has also twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and was a recipient of the Z-Gallerie Design Award Fall/Winter 2013. Nicole is also a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Zephyr, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture.

Before launching her successful design firm, Nicole was an award-winning journalist whose stories appeared in The Miami Herald, Village Voice, and Vibe magazine. Her combined love of design and writing spawned the creation of her blog,  Live Laugh Decorate, where she showcases the behind the scenes details of design projects, shares tips on affordable design ideas, and dishes about design trends.

Her blog was nominated for Best Renovation Blog by Domino Magazine in 2018.

A Jamaican native, Nicole is deeply inspired by the colors and textures of the Caribbean and constantly fuses those elements in her designs. Nicole prides herself on designing a home guided by her client’s passions, be it contemporary, traditional, vintage or modern. Nicole is an avid foodie and wine lover who is always busy plotting a travel escape. Her greatest design however is her 8-year-old son, Xavier – artist and dinosaur aficionado.  

Show Highlights:

  • Nicole is thankful that black interior designers are getting more attention since the BLM movement has gained momentum. Not because they’re black, but because they are talented.
  • Addressing the topic of police officers (and how to behave around them) with your children is an added layer of life for black moms.
  • Educating others about BLM should not be a burden to people of color. Be proactive in researching and reading about their issues so that you can have a more appropriate dialogue.
  • Be a lifelong ally and speak up when you see injustice.
  • Nicole shares intimate thoughts about the concerns that black interior designers face.
  • How Nicole and her son, Xavier, builds relationships with community police officers.
  • Nicole relates an upsetting experience at a high-end business event.
  • Nicole offers encouragement and advice on what we can all do to make a difference.

Connect with Nicole!

Nicole’s Instagram

Nicole’sFacebook

Nicole’sTwitter

Nicole’sPinterest

Nicole’sWebsite

Nicole’s Email

Nicole’s Recommended Resources:

Black Artists + Designers Guild

Black Interior Designers Network 

NAACP 

Resources:

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned:

Nicole's 1st appearance on the show: #366

#BLM Shows:

#579 Albie Buabeng

#573 Cheryl Luckett

#568 Arianne Bellizaire

#562 Rasheeda Gray

#556 Kae Whitaker

#549 Corey Damen Jenkins

 

 

]]> 3924 no 590: Tawna Allred: At 10 Years in Business, Hard Choices Brought the Best Results http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/590-tawna-allred-at-10-years-in-business-hard-choices-brought-the-best-results Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! What do you do when you realize that the business you have nurtured over the years is no longer bringing you joy? Tawna Allred joins LuAnn in this conversation that is not so much about how Tawna built her design business, but how, after 10 years in business, she took a pause, looked inside, and shifted gears to bring back the spark and create the life that she really wanted. Listen in to this inspiring conversation for lessons on learning to trust your gut instinct and following through with simple changes. Tawna Allred opened her interior design business (a single person LLC) in 2009, and she is still a one-woman business today. Tawna labels herself as a multi-passionate creative. Her interior design focus is design-build (new construction and remodeling), and she offers full-service design from plan conceptualization to installing furniture and styling. Tawna's husband is a contractor and although they have separate businesses, he's a huge mentor and supporter of her work. She started her business right after finishing school because there weren't any designers in her town and she had three young children. Tawna has been learning in the school of hard knocks ever since! Show Highlights: Tawna relates the overwhelming feelings she experienced before making a decision to go in a different direction. Tawna was burned out on the “people part” of the business but discovered that she had great interest in design challenges. “What do I want to do now?” Art was pivotal in reigniting Tawna's spark and her next move. LuAnn addresses our inner voice and why it's so important to pay attention to it. How Tawna reverse-engineered a second business by streamlining the processes that worked and getting rid of things that didn't. Learning to say 'no' to potential clients was not an easy task. Tawna's lightbulb moment: What if she took design-build jobs if the client also hired her contractor husband? Zeroing in on eliminating the parts of her design business that she did not absolutely love allowed Tawna to create a whole new life for herself that she loves. “Chase the meaning, not the money”: The lesson Tawna learned from Chase Jarvis's book, Creative Calling. Links: Tawna's Websites: -Tawna Allred & Tawna Allred Art Tawna's Instagram Tawna's Pinterest Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #348 Albie Buabeng #160 Kelli Ellis #344 Lori Paranjape #440 Tobi Fairley #413 Leslie Carothers #315, #283 Madeleine MacRae   Tue, 15 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Tawna Allred: At 10 Years in Business, Hard Choices Brought the Best Results full 590 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! What do you do when you realize that the business you have nurtured over the years is no longer bringing you joy? Tawna Allred joins LuAnn in this conversation that is not so much about how Tawna built her design... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! What do you do when you realize that the business you have nurtured over the years is no longer bringing you joy? Tawna Allred joins LuAnn in this conversation that is not so much about how Tawna built her design business, but how, after 10 years in business, she took a pause, looked inside, and shifted gears to bring back the spark and create the life that she really wanted. Listen in to this inspiring conversation for lessons on learning to trust your gut instinct and following through with simple changes. Tawna Allred opened her interior design business (a single person LLC) in 2009, and she is still a one-woman business today. Tawna labels herself as a multi-passionate creative. Her interior design focus is design-build (new construction and remodeling), and she offers full-service design from plan conceptualization to installing furniture and styling. Tawna's husband is a contractor and although they have separate businesses, he's a huge mentor and supporter of her work. She started her business right after finishing school because there weren't any designers in her town and she had three young children. Tawna has been learning in the school of hard knocks ever since! Show Highlights: Tawna relates the overwhelming feelings she experienced before making a decision to go in a different direction. Tawna was burned out on the “people part” of the business but discovered that she had great interest in design challenges. “What do I want to do now?” Art was pivotal in reigniting Tawna's spark and her next move. LuAnn addresses our inner voice and why it's so important to pay attention to it. How Tawna reverse-engineered a second business by streamlining the processes that worked and getting rid of things that didn't. Learning to say 'no' to potential clients was not an easy task. Tawna's lightbulb moment: What if she took design-build jobs if the client also hired her contractor husband? Zeroing in on eliminating the parts of her design business that she did not absolutely love allowed Tawna to create a whole new life for herself that she loves. “Chase the meaning, not the money”: The lesson Tawna learned from Chase Jarvis's book, Creative Calling. Links: Tawna's Websites: -Tawna Allred & Tawna Allred Art Tawna's Instagram Tawna's Pinterest Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #348 Albie Buabeng #160 Kelli Ellis #344 Lori Paranjape #440 Tobi Fairley #413 Leslie Carothers #315, #283 Madeleine MacRae   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! What do you do when you realize that the business you have nurtured over the years is no longer bringing you joy? Tawna Allred joins LuAnn in this conversation that is not so much about how Tawna built her design business, but how, after 10 years in business, she took a pause, looked inside, and shifted gears to bring back the spark and create the life that she really wanted. Listen in to this inspiring conversation for lessons on learning to trust your gut instinct and following through with simple changes.

Tawna Allred opened her interior design business (a single person LLC) in 2009, and she is still a one-woman business today. Tawna labels herself as a multi-passionate creative. Her interior design focus is design-build (new construction and remodeling), and she offers full-service design from plan conceptualization to installing furniture and styling. Tawna's husband is a contractor and although they have separate businesses, he's a huge mentor and supporter of her work. She started her business right after finishing school because there weren't any designers in her town and she had three young children. Tawna has been learning in the school of hard knocks ever since!

Show Highlights:

  • Tawna relates the overwhelming feelings she experienced before making a decision to go in a different direction.
  • Tawna was burned out on the “people part” of the business but discovered that she had great interest in design challenges.
  • “What do I want to do now?”
  • Art was pivotal in reigniting Tawna's spark and her next move.
  • LuAnn addresses our inner voice and why it's so important to pay attention to it.
  • How Tawna reverse-engineered a second business by streamlining the processes that worked and getting rid of things that didn't.
  • Learning to say 'no' to potential clients was not an easy task.
  • Tawna's lightbulb moment: What if she took design-build jobs if the client also hired her contractor husband?
  • Zeroing in on eliminating the parts of her design business that she did not absolutely love allowed Tawna to create a whole new life for herself that she loves.
  • “Chase the meaning, not the money”: The lesson Tawna learned from Chase Jarvis's book, Creative Calling.

Links:

Tawna's Websites: -Tawna Allred & Tawna Allred Art

Tawna's Instagram

Tawna's Pinterest

Links :

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Investment: $3,989

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

#348 Albie Buabeng

#160 Kelli Ellis

#344 Lori Paranjape

#440 Tobi Fairley

#413 Leslie Carothers

#315, #283 Madeleine MacRae

 

]]> 4453 no 589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/589-power-talk-friday-eileen-hahn-scaling-from-2-million-to-5-million Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it's Power Talk Friday! Today, Luann and her guest, Eileen Hahn, dig into how to scale your design business from 2 million to 5 million. Going from 2 to 5 million is not easy, and it does not happen by accident. Intentional is the name of the game when scaling at this level. Who better to take us through that than Eileen? She’s the HR whisperer from LuAnn's first Power Talk Friday Experts book. Eileen was with us all at LuAnn Live and she also has a chapter in LuAnn's upcoming second Power Talk Friday Experts book, as well. Oh, and did you know that LuAnn and Eileen are COUSINS? Tune in to their conversation for expert advice on hiring, retaining, and scaling, and be amazed as Eileen takes this overwhelming task of scaling and breaks it down into a simple (not easy, simple) to-do list! Eileen Hahn is a leadership consultant who works with firms like Anheuser-Busch, Ericson Worldwide, General Motors, Legoland, San Diego Padres, and interior design firms, as well as smaller entrepreneurial firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity. Connect with Eileen! Eileen'sWebsite Eileen's Instagram Eileen's LinkedIn Eileen's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkits Eileen's Email Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio - All your clients, numbers, and info in one place! Stay organized, source products, and get paid. View a demo of the interior design software today! Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #363 Eileen Hahn #364 Janelle Photopoulos #127, #388, #549 Corey Damen Jenkins #130, #215 Kate O’Hara #64, #492 Laura Umansky Fri, 11 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million full 589 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it's Power Talk Friday! Today, Luann and her guest, Eileen Hahn, dig into how to scale your design business from 2 million to 5 million. Going from 2 to 5 million is not easy, and it does not happen by accident.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it's Power Talk Friday! Today, Luann and her guest, Eileen Hahn, dig into how to scale your design business from 2 million to 5 million. Going from 2 to 5 million is not easy, and it does not happen by accident. Intentional is the name of the game when scaling at this level. Who better to take us through that than Eileen? She’s the HR whisperer from LuAnn's first Power Talk Friday Experts book. Eileen was with us all at LuAnn Live and she also has a chapter in LuAnn's upcoming second Power Talk Friday Experts book, as well. Oh, and did you know that LuAnn and Eileen are COUSINS? Tune in to their conversation for expert advice on hiring, retaining, and scaling, and be amazed as Eileen takes this overwhelming task of scaling and breaks it down into a simple (not easy, simple) to-do list! Eileen Hahn is a leadership consultant who works with firms like Anheuser-Busch, Ericson Worldwide, General Motors, Legoland, San Diego Padres, and interior design firms, as well as smaller entrepreneurial firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity. Connect with Eileen! Eileen'sWebsite Eileen's Instagram Eileen's LinkedIn Eileen's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkits Eileen's Email Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio - All your clients, numbers, and info in one place! Stay organized, source products, and get paid. View a demo of the interior design software today! Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #363 Eileen Hahn #364 Janelle Photopoulos #127, #388, #549 Corey Damen Jenkins #130, #215 Kate O’Hara #64, #492 Laura Umansky Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it's Power Talk Friday! Today, Luann and her guest, Eileen Hahn, dig into how to scale your design business from 2 million to 5 million. Going from 2 to 5 million is not easy, and it does not happen by accident. Intentional is the name of the game when scaling at this level. Who better to take us through that than Eileen? She’s the HR whisperer from LuAnn's first Power Talk Friday Experts book. Eileen was with us all at LuAnn Live and she also has a chapter in LuAnn's upcoming second Power Talk Friday Experts book, as well. Oh, and did you know that LuAnn and Eileen are COUSINS? Tune in to their conversation for expert advice on hiring, retaining, and scaling, and be amazed as Eileen takes

this overwhelming task of scaling and breaks it down into a simple (not easy, simple) to-do list!

Eileen Hahn is a leadership consultant who works with firms like Anheuser-Busch, Ericson Worldwide, General Motors, Legoland, San Diego Padres, and interior design firms, as well as smaller entrepreneurial firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity.

Connect with Eileen!

Eileen'sWebsite

Eileen's Instagram

Eileen's LinkedIn

Eileen's Interior Design Firm Hiring Toolkits

Eileen's Email

Links :

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Investment: $3,989

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio - All your clients, numbers, and info in one place! Stay organized, source products, and get paid. View a demo of the interior design software today!

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

#363 Eileen Hahn

#364 Janelle Photopoulos

#127, #388, #549 Corey Damen Jenkins

#130, #215 Kate O’Hara

#64, #492 Laura Umansky

]]> 4507 no 588: What Would Lu Do: Leading your Business Through an Unprecedented Growth Spurt http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/588-what-would-lu-do-leading-your-business-through-an-unprecedented-growth-spurt Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio. Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation. Today’s episode will capture your attention because Lu explains how having too much business isn’t always good. Really? Tune in to hear LuAnn explain. Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details regarding a scary scenario Window Works faced during the World Pandemic Lu shares the “miracle” that happened when business turned around in May Marketing the business was where LuAnn’s team doubled down its focused energy Successful marketing efforts paid off for the month of June! Business was booming and the factories couldn’t meet demand. The Window Works team was stressed and stretched to the max often pulling double duty Deadlines were stretched and it was an emotional roller coaster! But, oh, the lessons Lu sees in hindsight: * The marketing blitz worked! * Hiring a replacement admin was the right decision for the business * Team communication was imperative * Employees had to be flexible with job roles and pitch in where/when needed Lu says not to be afraid to raise your prices during this environment Turn down jobs if they don’t seem like a good fit for you Be honest at all times within the business and to clients, vendors, etc. Document everything said and follow-through to meet client expectations Be willing to walk away and return money if necessary Be assured that the situation will eventually turn around! If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to MyDoma Studio for sponsoring this episode!   Thu, 10 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: Leading your Business Through an Unprecedented Growth Spurt full 588 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio. Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation. Today’s episode will capture your attention because Lu explains how having too much business isn’t always good. Really? Tune in to hear LuAnn explain. Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details regarding a scary scenario Window Works faced during the World Pandemic Lu shares the “miracle” that happened when business turned around in May Marketing the business was where LuAnn’s team doubled down its focused energy Successful marketing efforts paid off for the month of June! Business was booming and the factories couldn’t meet demand. The Window Works team was stressed and stretched to the max often pulling double duty Deadlines were stretched and it was an emotional roller coaster! But, oh, the lessons Lu sees in hindsight: * The marketing blitz worked! * Hiring a replacement admin was the right decision for the business * Team communication was imperative * Employees had to be flexible with job roles and pitch in where/when needed Lu says not to be afraid to raise your prices during this environment Turn down jobs if they don’t seem like a good fit for you Be honest at all times within the business and to clients, vendors, etc. Document everything said and follow-through to meet client expectations Be willing to walk away and return money if necessary Be assured that the situation will eventually turn around! If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to MyDoma Studio for sponsoring this episode!   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting. Today’s episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio.

Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation.

Today’s episode will capture your attention because Lu explains how having too much business isn’t always good. Really? Tune in to hear LuAnn explain.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn provides the details regarding a scary scenario Window Works faced during the World Pandemic
  • Lu shares the “miracle” that happened when business turned around in May
  • Marketing the business was where LuAnn’s team doubled down its focused energy
  • Successful marketing efforts paid off for the month of June!
  • Business was booming and the factories couldn’t meet demand.
  • The Window Works team was stressed and stretched to the max often pulling double duty
  • Deadlines were stretched and it was an emotional roller coaster!
  • But, oh, the lessons Lu sees in hindsight:
  • * The marketing blitz worked!
  • * Hiring a replacement admin was the right decision for the business
  • * Team communication was imperative
  • * Employees had to be flexible with job roles and pitch in where/when needed
  • Lu says not to be afraid to raise your prices during this environment
  • Turn down jobs if they don’t seem like a good fit for you
  • Be honest at all times within the business and to clients, vendors, etc.
  • Document everything said and follow-through to meet client expectations
  • Be willing to walk away and return money if necessary
  • Be assured that the situation will eventually turn around!

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to MyDoma Studio for sponsoring this episode!

 

]]> 2694 no 587: Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/587-darrell-long-the-best-design-comes-from-within-not-pinterest Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you really, truly, creating your own designs and ideas? Today’s guest wants you to learn to start with the story you want to tell and to express that in your design. LuAnn gets the pleasure of talking with so many great designers on the show, but she rarely gets the opportunity to chat with a commercial designer. That dynamic flips once again today, because she is joined by Darrell Long of Wilson Associates. Darrell believes it is important to develop your critical thinking in order to be an exceptional designer. He is here to share with us that the magic of creativity is in the story and it is the art behind the design. This is something that he is very passionate about and he considers it his mission to share with other designers, especially younger ones. Please join us in this very special episode! Darrell Long possesses more than 25 years of brand-strengthening design experience that evokes a distinct sense of location, while engaging the world's most discriminating travelers. As Regional Managing Director Long oversees the design direction of the Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Dallas studios. Throughout his professional career, Darrell has set new standards for luxury, comfort, and innovation in hospitality interior design across the world. He has been recognized throughout the hospitality design industry for his emphasis on modernist principles rooted in contemporary and technological design practices. Of the contemporary, Darrell is a fan of Gehry and Piano. Darrell’s ultimate source of inspiration has always been music. In his early years, Darrell embarked on a career path to become a musician, which further ignited his love for the fine arts, particularly museum exhibition design, ultimately leading him to discover an innate passion for architecture and interior design. When Darrell isn’t leading his team designing world-class projects, he can be found enjoying music, playing the guitar and piano, indulging in great food, wine, film, and spending time at home. Show Highlights: You’re either a follower or a leader, so pick one side! The problem with spending all day “following” people on social media. Critical thinking should be the linchpin of what we do as creative people. Young designers tend to not look beyond what is immediately in their face. Coming up with something purely honest is how your own story comes about. There is a roadmap on connecting a conceptual idea to the final idea of a design. Darrell touches on the distinction between a story and a concept. Stretch your noggin and get the most you can out of an idea. Great art is always about a story. Darrell’s goal is to help the younger designers find their voice. When you’re looking at other peoples’ work and using their ideas to make them your own, that is just collecting someone else’s thoughts, and not creating your own. Darrell provides a powerful Hemingway analogy as a perfect example of thinking critically. Darrell shares some strategies and tips on how to be a better critical thinker and how to develop your designer conceptual edge. Connect with Darrell! Darrell’s Info: Wilson Associates Darrell’s Email Wilson Associates LinkedIn Wilson Associates Instagram Wilson Associates Facebook Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned: #435 Global Hospitality Interior Design, Juan Carlos Rodriguez Artigas of Wilson Associates   Tue, 08 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest full 587 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you really, truly, creating your own designs and ideas? Today’s guest wants you to learn to start with the story you want to tell and to express that in your design. LuAnn gets the pleasure of talking with so... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you really, truly, creating your own designs and ideas? Today’s guest wants you to learn to start with the story you want to tell and to express that in your design. LuAnn gets the pleasure of talking with so many great designers on the show, but she rarely gets the opportunity to chat with a commercial designer. That dynamic flips once again today, because she is joined by Darrell Long of Wilson Associates. Darrell believes it is important to develop your critical thinking in order to be an exceptional designer. He is here to share with us that the magic of creativity is in the story and it is the art behind the design. This is something that he is very passionate about and he considers it his mission to share with other designers, especially younger ones. Please join us in this very special episode! Darrell Long possesses more than 25 years of brand-strengthening design experience that evokes a distinct sense of location, while engaging the world's most discriminating travelers. As Regional Managing Director Long oversees the design direction of the Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Dallas studios. Throughout his professional career, Darrell has set new standards for luxury, comfort, and innovation in hospitality interior design across the world. He has been recognized throughout the hospitality design industry for his emphasis on modernist principles rooted in contemporary and technological design practices. Of the contemporary, Darrell is a fan of Gehry and Piano. Darrell’s ultimate source of inspiration has always been music. In his early years, Darrell embarked on a career path to become a musician, which further ignited his love for the fine arts, particularly museum exhibition design, ultimately leading him to discover an innate passion for architecture and interior design. When Darrell isn’t leading his team designing world-class projects, he can be found enjoying music, playing the guitar and piano, indulging in great food, wine, film, and spending time at home. Show Highlights: You’re either a follower or a leader, so pick one side! The problem with spending all day “following” people on social media. Critical thinking should be the linchpin of what we do as creative people. Young designers tend to not look beyond what is immediately in their face. Coming up with something purely honest is how your own story comes about. There is a roadmap on connecting a conceptual idea to the final idea of a design. Darrell touches on the distinction between a story and a concept. Stretch your noggin and get the most you can out of an idea. Great art is always about a story. Darrell’s goal is to help the younger designers find their voice. When you’re looking at other peoples’ work and using their ideas to make them your own, that is just collecting someone else’s thoughts, and not creating your own. Darrell provides a powerful Hemingway analogy as a perfect example of thinking critically. Darrell shares some strategies and tips on how to be a better critical thinker and how to develop your designer conceptual edge. Connect with Darrell! Darrell’s Info: Wilson Associates Darrell’s Email Wilson Associates LinkedIn Wilson Associates Instagram Wilson Associates Facebook Links : Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Investment: $2195 Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Investment: $2195 Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned: #435 Global Hospitality Interior Design, Juan Carlos Rodriguez Artigas of Wilson Associates   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you really, truly, creating your own designs and ideas? Today’s guest wants you to learn to start with the story you want to tell and to express that in your design. LuAnn gets the pleasure of talking with so many great designers on the show, but she rarely gets the opportunity to chat with a commercial designer. That dynamic flips once again today, because she is joined by Darrell Long of Wilson Associates. Darrell believes it is important to develop your critical thinking in order to be an exceptional designer. He is here to share with us that the magic of creativity is in the story and it is the art behind the design. This is something that he is very passionate about and he considers it his mission to share with other designers, especially younger ones. Please join us in this very special episode!

Darrell Long possesses more than 25 years of brand-strengthening design experience that evokes a distinct sense of location, while engaging the world's most discriminating travelers. As Regional Managing Director Long oversees the design direction of the Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Dallas studios.

Throughout his professional career, Darrell has set new standards for luxury, comfort, and innovation in hospitality interior design across the world. He has been recognized throughout the hospitality design industry for his emphasis on modernist principles rooted in contemporary and technological design practices. Of the contemporary, Darrell is a fan of Gehry and Piano.

Darrell’s ultimate source of inspiration has always been music. In his early years, Darrell embarked on a career path to become a musician, which further ignited his love for the fine arts, particularly museum exhibition design, ultimately leading him to discover an innate passion for architecture and interior design. When Darrell isn’t leading his team designing world-class projects, he can be found enjoying music, playing the guitar and piano, indulging in great food, wine, film, and spending time at home.

Show Highlights:

  • You’re either a follower or a leader, so pick one side!
  • The problem with spending all day “following” people on social media.
  • Critical thinking should be the linchpin of what we do as creative people.
  • Young designers tend to not look beyond what is immediately in their face.
  • Coming up with something purely honest is how your own story comes about.
  • There is a roadmap on connecting a conceptual idea to the final idea of a design.
  • Darrell touches on the distinction between a story and a concept.
  • Stretch your noggin and get the most you can out of an idea.
  • Great art is always about a story.
  • Darrell’s goal is to help the younger designers find their voice.
  • When you’re looking at other peoples’ work and using their ideas to make them your own, that is just collecting someone else’s thoughts, and not creating your own.
  • Darrell provides a powerful Hemingway analogy as a perfect example of thinking critically.
  • Darrell shares some strategies and tips on how to be a better critical thinker and how to develop your designer conceptual edge.

Connect with Darrell!

Darrell’s Info: Wilson Associates

Darrell’s Email

Wilson Associates LinkedIn

Wilson Associates Instagram

Wilson Associates Facebook

Links :

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Investment: $3,989

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Investment: $2195

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned:

#435 Global Hospitality Interior Design, Juan Carlos Rodriguez Artigas of Wilson Associates

 

]]> 3314 no 586: Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/586-window-treatment-friday-tips-for-selling-window-treatments Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, discuss how to get yourself in the right mindset for selling window treatments. Window treatments add some dollar bills to that bottom line of a project and are a nice money profit center for an interior designer. Listen in today to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you. Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.   Show Highlights: Vita shares her thoughts on selling window treatments. Confidence, product knowledge, standing in your space, and understanding that you’re providing value at your price will increase your sales. The value mindset is a three-pronged approach: value of the product and its benefits for the consumer value that you provide as an individual value that the consumer ultimately sees Vita discusses differential advantage. Create a list of all the special things about yourself. This is your “only” and what ultimately drives your value. Attach an illustrative story for each of your “onlys” that becomes your go-to story for a particular point. The idea of the word, “expensive”: it’s all relative! Make window treatments a line item in the scope of the project you’re working on. Vita has an intake form specific to new window treatment clients, and you can get the intake form and other free goodies right HERE!  Vita shares her selling strategies and tips. Do’s or don’t’s: pricing phone calls and consultation fees. If you’re selling every single job, you’re giving yourself away. Check out WTF Live with Vita and Kimberly! Vita and Kimberly go live on Facebook and Instagram every Friday at 12:00 pm eastern to give you even more insight into window treatments, including pictures of projects and different ideas so you aren’t just hearing about it, but you’re seeing it, too. You can join them on the Window Works New Jersey Facebook page or Instagram at Vitalia Inc.    Connect with Vita! Vita’s Website Vita’s Instagram Vita’s Facebook Vita’s Email   Links / Resources: Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game-changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! interiordesignstandard.com/luann Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895  Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895  Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!  www.Kirsch.com Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Other shows mentioned: #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #6 Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward # 83 Lauren Clement of Lauren Nicole Designs – An Interior Design Firm Built on Family and Teamwork # 180 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream Fri, 04 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, discuss how to get yourself in the right mindset for selling window treatments. Window... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, discuss how to get yourself in the right mindset for selling window treatments. Window treatments add some dollar bills to that bottom line of a project and are a nice money profit center for an interior designer. Listen in today to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you. Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.   Show Highlights: Vita shares her thoughts on selling window treatments. Confidence, product knowledge, standing in your space, and understanding that you’re providing value at your price will increase your sales. The value mindset is a three-pronged approach: value of the product and its benefits for the consumer value that you provide as an individual value that the consumer ultimately sees Vita discusses differential advantage. Create a list of all the special things about yourself. This is your “only” and what ultimately drives your value. Attach an illustrative story for each of your “onlys” that becomes your go-to story for a particular point. The idea of the word, “expensive”: it’s all relative! Make window treatments a line item in the scope of the project you’re working on. Vita has an intake form specific to new window treatment clients, and you can get the intake form and other free goodies right HERE!  Vita shares her selling strategies and tips. Do’s or don’t’s: pricing phone calls and consultation fees. If you’re selling every single job, you’re giving yourself away. Check out WTF Live with Vita and Kimberly! Vita and Kimberly go live on Facebook and Instagram every Friday at 12:00 pm eastern to give you even more insight into window treatments, including pictures of projects and different ideas so you aren’t just hearing about it, but you’re seeing it, too. You can join them on the Window Works New Jersey Facebook page or Instagram at Vitalia Inc.    Connect with Vita! Vita’s Website Vita’s Instagram Vita’s Facebook Vita’s Email   Links / Resources: Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game-changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! interiordesignstandard.com/luann Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895  Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895  Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!  www.Kirsch.com Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Other shows mentioned: #174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #6 Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward # 83 Lauren Clement of Lauren Nicole Designs – An Interior Design Firm Built on Family and Teamwork # 180 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, discuss how to get yourself in the right mindset for selling window treatments. Window treatments add some dollar bills to that bottom line of a project and are a nice money profit center for an interior designer. Listen in today to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you.

Vita is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

 

Show Highlights:

  • Vita shares her thoughts on selling window treatments.
  • Confidence, product knowledge, standing in your space, and understanding that you’re providing value at your price will increase your sales.
  • The value mindset is a three-pronged approach:
    1. value of the product and its benefits for the consumer
    2. value that you provide as an individual
    3. value that the consumer ultimately sees
  • Vita discusses differential advantage.
  • Create a list of all the special things about yourself. This is your “only” and what ultimately drives your value.
  • Attach an illustrative story for each of your “onlys” that becomes your go-to story for a particular point.
  • The idea of the word, “expensive”: it’s all relative!
  • Make window treatments a line item in the scope of the project you’re working on.
  • Vita has an intake form specific to new window treatment clients, and you can get the intake form and other free goodies right HERE! 
  • Vita shares her selling strategies and tips.
  • Do’s or don’t’s: pricing phone calls and consultation fees.
  • If you’re selling every single job, you’re giving yourself away.
  • Check out WTF Live with Vita and Kimberly! Vita and Kimberly go live on Facebook and Instagram every Friday at 12:00 pm eastern to give you even more insight into window treatments, including pictures of projects and different ideas so you aren’t just hearing about it, but you’re seeing it, too. You can join them on the Window Works New Jersey Facebook page or Instagram at Vitalia Inc. 

 

Connect with Vita!

Vita’s Website

Vita’s Instagram

Vita’s Facebook

Vita’s Email

 

Links / Resources:

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game-changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Investment: $3,989

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! 

www.Kirsch.com

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

 

Other shows mentioned:

#174 Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity

#6 Identifying Your Transferable Skills with Erika Ward

# 83 Lauren Clement of Lauren Nicole Designs – An Interior Design Firm Built on Family and Teamwork

# 180 Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You

#448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara

#456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments

#462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1

#471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2

#481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments

#493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success

#512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware

#518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional

#539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely

#551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream

]]> 4079 no 585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/585-sandra-funk-helping-designers-improve-their-business-systems Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today takes efficiency to a whole new level, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s upcoming book A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts, coming out in November 2020. Please welcome Sandra Funk back to the show. After 20 years in the business, Sandra has gained a ton of information, a ton of expertise, and a ton of knowledge, and now, she is offering that expertise, that well-oiled machine to designers everywhere. The Interior Design Standard is a program that Sandra has put together, actual templates for designers to utilize her systems and processes. LuAnn is thrilled to announce that today’s show is sponsored by Interior Design Standard. You’re going to love what you hear! Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business.  Show Highlights: Sandra provides an overview of the success of the first Interior Design Standard program that launched this past spring. The most important feature of the Standard is the insanely accurate flat-fee calculator. The contract supports it and the processes take you through each step. The email templates in the program have been picked at, refined, and perfected by clients over the last 15 years. The Standard’s platform is built on the free version of Asana so that it removes a barrier to entry. Sandra discusses her House of Funk norm and what the request-for-quote templates contain. There is joy in efficiency: You get to sleep through the night because you’re not going to forget any of the important details because it’s all in the Standard. LuAnn takes a look back on the very first time she met Sandra. The Standard program took eighteen months to build prior to launch. Zoom calls as a community and Q&A are a regular thing. The calls are social, collaborative, and encouraging. The program processes get refined so users will get those updates. You have to do the work to reap the benefits of the Standard. The holy grail, according to those who have gone through the Standard, is signing your next client. Start with the potential client module, work them all the way through that, sign them, and then work them all the way through the full service process module from start to finish. Once you’ve gone through both the potential client and the full service process with one fresh new client, everything has been customized to you! Connect with Sandra! Sandra’s Website Sandra’s Instagram Sandra’s Facebook Sandra’s Pinterest Sandra’s Email Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Other shows mentioned to link: #520, 145, 02 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here     Thu, 03 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems full 585 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today takes efficiency to a whole new level, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s upcoming book A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts, coming out in November 2020.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today takes efficiency to a whole new level, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s upcoming book A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts, coming out in November 2020. Please welcome Sandra Funk back to the show. After 20 years in the business, Sandra has gained a ton of information, a ton of expertise, and a ton of knowledge, and now, she is offering that expertise, that well-oiled machine to designers everywhere. The Interior Design Standard is a program that Sandra has put together, actual templates for designers to utilize her systems and processes. LuAnn is thrilled to announce that today’s show is sponsored by Interior Design Standard. You’re going to love what you hear! Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business.  Show Highlights: Sandra provides an overview of the success of the first Interior Design Standard program that launched this past spring. The most important feature of the Standard is the insanely accurate flat-fee calculator. The contract supports it and the processes take you through each step. The email templates in the program have been picked at, refined, and perfected by clients over the last 15 years. The Standard’s platform is built on the free version of Asana so that it removes a barrier to entry. Sandra discusses her House of Funk norm and what the request-for-quote templates contain. There is joy in efficiency: You get to sleep through the night because you’re not going to forget any of the important details because it’s all in the Standard. LuAnn takes a look back on the very first time she met Sandra. The Standard program took eighteen months to build prior to launch. Zoom calls as a community and Q&A are a regular thing. The calls are social, collaborative, and encouraging. The program processes get refined so users will get those updates. You have to do the work to reap the benefits of the Standard. The holy grail, according to those who have gone through the Standard, is signing your next client. Start with the potential client module, work them all the way through that, sign them, and then work them all the way through the full service process module from start to finish. Once you’ve gone through both the potential client and the full service process with one fresh new client, everything has been customized to you! Connect with Sandra! Sandra’s Website Sandra’s Instagram Sandra’s Facebook Sandra’s Pinterest Sandra’s Email Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Investment: $3,989 Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Other shows mentioned to link: #520, 145, 02 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today takes efficiency to a whole new level, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s upcoming book A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts, coming out in November 2020. Please welcome Sandra Funk back to the show.

After 20 years in the business, Sandra has gained a ton of information, a ton of expertise, and a ton of knowledge, and now, she is offering that expertise, that well-oiled machine to designers everywhere. The Interior Design Standard is a program that Sandra has put together, actual templates for designers to utilize her systems and processes. LuAnn is thrilled to announce that today’s show is sponsored by Interior Design Standard. You’re going to love what you hear!

Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. 

Show Highlights:

  • Sandra provides an overview of the success of the first Interior Design Standard program that launched this past spring.
  • The most important feature of the Standard is the insanely accurate flat-fee calculator. The contract supports it and the processes take you through each step.
  • The email templates in the program have been picked at, refined, and perfected by clients over the last 15 years.
  • The Standard’s platform is built on the free version of Asana so that it removes a barrier to entry.
  • Sandra discusses her House of Funk norm and what the request-for-quote templates contain.
  • There is joy in efficiency: You get to sleep through the night because you’re not going to forget any of the important details because it’s all in the Standard.
  • LuAnn takes a look back on the very first time she met Sandra.
  • The Standard program took eighteen months to build prior to launch.
  • Zoom calls as a community and Q&A are a regular thing. The calls are social, collaborative, and encouraging.
  • The program processes get refined so users will get those updates.
  • You have to do the work to reap the benefits of the Standard.
  • The holy grail, according to those who have gone through the Standard, is signing your next client. Start with the potential client module, work them all the way through that, sign them, and then work them all the way through the full service process module from start to finish. Once you’ve gone through both the potential client and the full service process with one fresh new client, everything has been customized to you!

Connect with Sandra!

Sandra’s Website

Sandra’s Instagram

Sandra’s Facebook

Sandra’s Pinterest

Sandra’s Email

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Investment: $3,989

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

Other shows mentioned to link:

#520, 145, 02

Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here

 

 

]]> 4023 no 584: Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/584-lesley-myrick-building-a-business-from-the-ground-up-again Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! No matter where your business is, it’s going to take trial and error, iterating, learning, changing, and growing to take it to the next level. And if anybody knows how to build a business from the ground up in new locations multiple times, relying on solid networking and content marketing strategies to help her forge new connections and succeed in new places, it’s today’s guest. LuAnn welcomes Lesley Myrick back to the show. Listen in to learn what Lesley has to say about building a successful business, even when you’re starting in a brand new place.  Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Show Highlights: Lesley describes the moment she knew she needed to step out on her own. Intuition plays a part in making good decisions about your business. Niching down is how to find the best clients. Lesley also coaches designers that are coming into the design field as a second career. Appearing as a guest speaker has turned out to be a better networking ROI for Lesley. Lesley shares many ways to build your business. Elevate your design to differentiate yourself from other designers. Lesley blocks time for blogging, marketing, and other tasks. LuAnn and Lesley discuss the ins and outs of HARO (Help a Reporter Out). Lesley dishes on her Bust Out of Boring How the coronavirus event actually helped to streamline some of Lesley’s decisions. A “Freebies” webpage is value-added! Lesley shares some tips to maximize its impact. Reading The Introvert's Edge: How the Quiet and Shy Can Outsell Anyone by Matthew Pollard with Derek Lewis was a game-changer for Lesley in understanding how to turn potential clients into actual clients. How your stories can help close a sale. Connect with Lesley! Lesley’s Website Lesley’s Freebies Lesley’s Instagram  Lesley’s Podcast Bust Out of Boring Lesley’s Email #BizTipMonday emails + Resources for Interior Designers Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Check Out Their ICreate Program to Easily Design Your Own Furniture in Just a Few Simple Steps! Kravet Other shows mentioned to link: #37 Lesley Myrick - Strategies I Used to Build My Business #203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula #82 Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117 Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #73 Kim Kuhteubl   Tue, 01 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again full 584 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! No matter where your business is, it’s going to take trial and error, iterating, learning, changing, and growing to take it to the next level. And if anybody knows how to build a business from the ground up in... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! No matter where your business is, it’s going to take trial and error, iterating, learning, changing, and growing to take it to the next level. And if anybody knows how to build a business from the ground up in new locations multiple times, relying on solid networking and content marketing strategies to help her forge new connections and succeed in new places, it’s today’s guest. LuAnn welcomes Lesley Myrick back to the show. Listen in to learn what Lesley has to say about building a successful business, even when you’re starting in a brand new place.  Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Show Highlights: Lesley describes the moment she knew she needed to step out on her own. Intuition plays a part in making good decisions about your business. Niching down is how to find the best clients. Lesley also coaches designers that are coming into the design field as a second career. Appearing as a guest speaker has turned out to be a better networking ROI for Lesley. Lesley shares many ways to build your business. Elevate your design to differentiate yourself from other designers. Lesley blocks time for blogging, marketing, and other tasks. LuAnn and Lesley discuss the ins and outs of HARO (Help a Reporter Out). Lesley dishes on her Bust Out of Boring How the coronavirus event actually helped to streamline some of Lesley’s decisions. A “Freebies” webpage is value-added! Lesley shares some tips to maximize its impact. Reading The Introvert's Edge: How the Quiet and Shy Can Outsell Anyone by Matthew Pollard with Derek Lewis was a game-changer for Lesley in understanding how to turn potential clients into actual clients. How your stories can help close a sale. Connect with Lesley! Lesley’s Website Lesley’s Freebies Lesley’s Instagram  Lesley’s Podcast Bust Out of Boring Lesley’s Email #BizTipMonday emails + Resources for Interior Designers Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Check Out Their ICreate Program to Easily Design Your Own Furniture in Just a Few Simple Steps! Kravet Other shows mentioned to link: #37 Lesley Myrick - Strategies I Used to Build My Business #203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm #330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients #389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula #82 Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs #117 Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! #73 Kim Kuhteubl   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! No matter where your business is, it’s going to take trial and error, iterating, learning, changing, and growing to take it to the next level. And if anybody knows how to build a business from the ground up in new locations multiple times, relying on solid networking and content marketing strategies to help her forge new connections and succeed in new places, it’s today’s guest. LuAnn welcomes Lesley Myrick back to the show. Listen in to learn what Lesley has to say about building a successful business, even when you’re starting in a brand new place. 

Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love.

Show Highlights:

  • Lesley describes the moment she knew she needed to step out on her own.
  • Intuition plays a part in making good decisions about your business.
  • Niching down is how to find the best clients.
  • Lesley also coaches designers that are coming into the design field as a second career.
  • Appearing as a guest speaker has turned out to be a better networking ROI for Lesley.
  • Lesley shares many ways to build your business.
  • Elevate your design to differentiate yourself from other designers.
  • Lesley blocks time for blogging, marketing, and other tasks.
  • LuAnn and Lesley discuss the ins and outs of HARO (Help a Reporter Out).
  • Lesley dishes on her Bust Out of Boring
  • How the coronavirus event actually helped to streamline some of Lesley’s decisions.
  • A “Freebies” webpage is value-added! Lesley shares some tips to maximize its impact.
  • Reading The Introvert's Edge: How the Quiet and Shy Can Outsell Anyone by Matthew Pollard with Derek Lewis was a game-changer for Lesley in understanding how to turn potential clients into actual clients.
  • How your stories can help close a sale.

Connect with Lesley!

Lesley’s Website

Lesley’s Freebies

Lesley’s Instagram 

Lesley’s Podcast Bust Out of Boring

Lesley’s Email

#BizTipMonday emails + Resources for Interior Designers



Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Check Out Their ICreate Program to Easily Design Your Own Furniture in Just a Few Simple Steps! Kravet

Other shows mentioned to link:

#37 Lesley Myrick - Strategies I Used to Build My Business

#203 Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm

#330 Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening

#15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

#159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

#256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

#389 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

#82 Deborah Rosenberg – Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs

#117 Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here!

#73 Kim Kuhteubl

 

]]> 4715 no 583: Mitch Hahn: Accounting for Creatives: It’s About the Partnership http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/583-mitch-hahn-accounting-for-creatives-its-about-the-partnership Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Mitch Hahn, the CEO of Nordens, a large, established accounting firm in Central London. Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. Simply put, Mitch doesn’t just look at home design from an accountant’s perspective; he sees accounting from a home designer’s perspective, too, so he truly speaks creatives’ language. Listen in for what Mitch has to say about what to look for in an accountant and how accountants can better serve designer clients.  The CEO of an established accounting firm - like, over-3000-clients-established - at only 31, Mitch Hahn is versed in starting a company from scratch at a young age. And he’s not too bad at helping a variety of other businesses do the same, either.  Plus, with a variety of home design businesses included within that scope, Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. It’s that “struggle” bit that he knows all too well!  Show Highlights: Mitch’s firm, Nordens, differentiates itself from other accounting firms by focusing on relationships. Most creatives tend to not want to work with numbers. Designers should have a good working knowledge of their finances. Knowledge is power, and knowledge enables you to make better decisions. Mitch’s tips on how to find the right accountant. Benefits of working with an accountant on a close basis. Consistency and accountability are key to avoiding mistakes once you have your system down. Mitch is a “closer” and he makes things happen. Nordens is based in the UK but has many business consulting clients in the US. Mitch details his “Interactive Acceleration Program” that can help you achieve your goals. Location does not matter! Email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk for more information. Connect with Mitch! Nordens Website [The firm Mitch is CEO of] @MitchelHahn [personal twitter handle] @NordensAccounts [Accounting firm handle] Mitch’s LinkedIn Nordens YouTube To sign up for the Interactive Acceleration Program, just email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA   Fri, 28 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Mitch Hahn: Accounting for Creatives: It’s About the Partnership full 583 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Mitch Hahn, the CEO of Nordens, a large, established accounting firm in Central London. Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Mitch Hahn, the CEO of Nordens, a large, established accounting firm in Central London. Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. Simply put, Mitch doesn’t just look at home design from an accountant’s perspective; he sees accounting from a home designer’s perspective, too, so he truly speaks creatives’ language. Listen in for what Mitch has to say about what to look for in an accountant and how accountants can better serve designer clients.  The CEO of an established accounting firm - like, over-3000-clients-established - at only 31, Mitch Hahn is versed in starting a company from scratch at a young age. And he’s not too bad at helping a variety of other businesses do the same, either.  Plus, with a variety of home design businesses included within that scope, Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. It’s that “struggle” bit that he knows all too well!  Show Highlights: Mitch’s firm, Nordens, differentiates itself from other accounting firms by focusing on relationships. Most creatives tend to not want to work with numbers. Designers should have a good working knowledge of their finances. Knowledge is power, and knowledge enables you to make better decisions. Mitch’s tips on how to find the right accountant. Benefits of working with an accountant on a close basis. Consistency and accountability are key to avoiding mistakes once you have your system down. Mitch is a “closer” and he makes things happen. Nordens is based in the UK but has many business consulting clients in the US. Mitch details his “Interactive Acceleration Program” that can help you achieve your goals. Location does not matter! Email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk for more information. Connect with Mitch! Nordens Website [The firm Mitch is CEO of] @MitchelHahn [personal twitter handle] @NordensAccounts [Accounting firm handle] Mitch’s LinkedIn Nordens YouTube To sign up for the Interactive Acceleration Program, just email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM #464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner #349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Mitch Hahn, the CEO of Nordens, a large, established accounting firm in Central London. Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. Simply put, Mitch doesn’t just look at home design from an accountant’s perspective; he sees accounting from a home designer’s perspective, too, so he truly speaks creatives’ language. Listen in for what Mitch has to say about what to look for in an accountant and how accountants can better serve designer clients. 

The CEO of an established accounting firm - like, over-3000-clients-established - at only 31, Mitch Hahn is versed in starting a company from scratch at a young age. And he’s not too bad at helping a variety of other businesses do the same, either. 

Plus, with a variety of home design businesses included within that scope, Mitch is not new to the struggles and successes that accompany accounting for home designers. It’s that “struggle” bit that he knows all too well! 

Show Highlights:

  • Mitch’s firm, Nordens, differentiates itself from other accounting firms by focusing on relationships.
  • Most creatives tend to not want to work with numbers.
  • Designers should have a good working knowledge of their finances.
  • Knowledge is power, and knowledge enables you to make better decisions.
  • Mitch’s tips on how to find the right accountant.
  • Benefits of working with an accountant on a close basis.
  • Consistency and accountability are key to avoiding mistakes once you have your system down.
  • Mitch is a “closer” and he makes things happen.
  • Nordens is based in the UK but has many business consulting clients in the US.
  • Mitch details his “Interactive Acceleration Program” that can help you achieve your goals. Location does not matter! Email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk for more information.

Connect with Mitch!

Nordens Website [The firm Mitch is CEO of]

@MitchelHahn [personal twitter handle]

@NordensAccounts [Accounting firm handle]

Mitch’s LinkedIn

Nordens YouTube

To sign up for the Interactive Acceleration Program, just email Mitch directly at mitch@nordens.co.uk

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

#464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

#349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

 

]]> 3229 no 582: What Would Lu Do: My Contractor Went Behind My Back! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/582-what-would-lu-do-my-contractor-went-behind-my-back Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Virginia’s situation. Kudos to Virginia for: not throwing the contractor under the bus with the client. recognizing that she is the one that hired him for the project. taking a hard look at where she might have gone wrong. Why and how we should pay attention to our intuition. Part of the process for Virginia’s anger is to get it out and let it go. The contractor probably has no idea how “in the wrong” he is. Virginia should wait to speak with the contractor until the words she says are reflected in her tone of voice. Consider: In the interim between writing LuAnn the note and the airing of this show, does it still feel necessary to talk to the contractor about this? Does it feel like it will be productive to have this conversation with him now? If things feel fine now, let it go for the duration of the project. If things don’t feel fine, LuAnn has some thoughts on that direction, too! Suggestions for proposing and leading a constructive, post-project “autopsy” meeting with the contractor. Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Thu, 27 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: My Contractor Went Behind My Back! full 582 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Virginia’s situation. Kudos to Virginia for: not throwing the contractor under the bus with the client. recognizing that she is the one that hired him for the project. taking a hard look at where she might have gone wrong. Why and how we should pay attention to our intuition. Part of the process for Virginia’s anger is to get it out and let it go. The contractor probably has no idea how “in the wrong” he is. Virginia should wait to speak with the contractor until the words she says are reflected in her tone of voice. Consider: In the interim between writing LuAnn the note and the airing of this show, does it still feel necessary to talk to the contractor about this? Does it feel like it will be productive to have this conversation with him now? If things feel fine now, let it go for the duration of the project. If things don’t feel fine, LuAnn has some thoughts on that direction, too! Suggestions for proposing and leading a constructive, post-project “autopsy” meeting with the contractor. Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020! With Desi Creswell Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895 Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th Register Now! LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s dilemma comes from Virginia, a self-described #babydesigner. Virginia had a good working relationship with a contractor on commercial projects, and he brought her into one of his residential deals. Everything went great. She returned the favor by inviting him into one of her residential projects. The contractor ended up sending the client a proposal behind Virginia’s back, before she even had the design work presentation ready. This confused the client and made her look bad. Virginia is looking for the best way to handle this situation.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn provides the details around Virginia’s situation.
  • Kudos to Virginia for:
  • not throwing the contractor under the bus with the client.
  • recognizing that she is the one that hired him for the project.
  • taking a hard look at where she might have gone wrong.
  • Why and how we should pay attention to our intuition.
  • Part of the process for Virginia’s anger is to get it out and let it go.
  • The contractor probably has no idea how “in the wrong” he is.
  • Virginia should wait to speak with the contractor until the words she says are reflected in her tone of voice.
  • Consider: In the interim between writing LuAnn the note and the airing of this show, does it still feel necessary to talk to the contractor about this? Does it feel like it will be productive to have this conversation with him now?
  • If things feel fine now, let it go for the duration of the project.
  • If things don’t feel fine, LuAnn has some thoughts on that direction, too!
  • Suggestions for proposing and leading a constructive, post-project “autopsy” meeting with the contractor.

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits - Kicking Off September 23, 2020!

With Desi Creswell

Register NOW & Get Early Bird Pricing $1895

Regular Price: $2195 after September 4th

Register Now!

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

 

]]> 2096 no 581: Paloma Contreras: High School Teacher to Elle Decor’s A-Lister http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/581-paloma-contreras-high-school-teacher-to-elle-decors-a-lister Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is the Paloma Contreras - the Elle A-list, Forbes recognized, shop-owning, fabulously talented design influencer. You know, the Paloma Contreras that has163,000 Instagram followers? This lady is one amazing powerhouse! Keep listening, though, because it wasn’t always that way. She is a lady who cried on Sundays because she dreaded her work week so much, then went on to find her niche, love her job, and become that Elle Decor A-Lister. Don’t miss LuAnn’s and Paloma’s inspiring conversation about trusting your gut, taking action even when you’re afraid or unsure, and going for the big dream in your head and making it reality. Based in Houston, Texas, Paloma has honed her eye for style over more than a decade in the design industry. She has developed a reputation for designing beautiful interiors in a broad range of styles which are executed in a manner that is polished, refined, and effortless.  Paloma has repeatedly been named on the prestigious ELLE Decor “A-List” of the top interior designers in the world. She’s been recognized as a “Next Wave” interior designer by House Beautiful and has been named to LUXE Magazine’s “Gold List”.  Paloma was named #4 on the Forbes list of the Top Social Media Influencers in the Home category and according to ELLE Decor, is one of the Top 10 interior design Instagram accounts to follow. She recently debuted a licensed collection with Williams Sonoma Home and has done special projects with many major brands including One Kings Lane, Bravo Television, American Express, KitchenAid, Kohler, Auberge du Soleil, and Peninsula Hotels.  Paloma has a book named Dream Design Live and a curated retail shop, Paloma & Co. And last but not least - she’s a lady after my own heart - she just launched The Style Files Podcast. When she gets a free second, Paloma enjoys traveling with her husband, Fabian, and spending time with their sweet dog, Tate. Show Highlights: Paloma credits her success to her passion, tenacity, and the ability to recognize opportunities. Consistency is necessary when you’re trying to build an audience, a brand, or a name for yourself. How Paloma went from being a bored high school Spanish teacher to starting a design blog as a creative writing outlet. Paloma shares the opportunities that enabled her to hone a different set of skills and her new design career that followed. Just because you’re seeing “xyz” in your social media feed because everyone is doing “xyz” doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you. Things that you need to have in place before hiring a publicist. What it takes to be recognized by the press. Success can take years of hard work, sacrifice, and even some failures. "Make it a pleasure to work with you!” - Paloma Contreras Paloma addresses being an Elle Decor A-Lister. Connect with Paloma! Paloma’s Website Paloma’s Instagram Paloma’s Blog Paloma’s Podcast:The Style Files Podcast Paloma’s Email  Order Your Copy of Paloma’s Book, Dream Design Live! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Visual Comfort #408 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Robin Baron #32 #540  Shea McGee #236 #270   Tue, 25 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Paloma Contreras: High School Teacher to Elle Decor’s A-Lister full 581 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is the Paloma Contreras - the Elle A-list, Forbes recognized, shop-owning, fabulously talented design influencer. You know, the Paloma Contreras that has163,000 Instagram followers? This... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is the Paloma Contreras - the Elle A-list, Forbes recognized, shop-owning, fabulously talented design influencer. You know, the Paloma Contreras that has163,000 Instagram followers? This lady is one amazing powerhouse! Keep listening, though, because it wasn’t always that way. She is a lady who cried on Sundays because she dreaded her work week so much, then went on to find her niche, love her job, and become that Elle Decor A-Lister. Don’t miss LuAnn’s and Paloma’s inspiring conversation about trusting your gut, taking action even when you’re afraid or unsure, and going for the big dream in your head and making it reality. Based in Houston, Texas, Paloma has honed her eye for style over more than a decade in the design industry. She has developed a reputation for designing beautiful interiors in a broad range of styles which are executed in a manner that is polished, refined, and effortless.  Paloma has repeatedly been named on the prestigious ELLE Decor “A-List” of the top interior designers in the world. She’s been recognized as a “Next Wave” interior designer by House Beautiful and has been named to LUXE Magazine’s “Gold List”.  Paloma was named #4 on the Forbes list of the Top Social Media Influencers in the Home category and according to ELLE Decor, is one of the Top 10 interior design Instagram accounts to follow. She recently debuted a licensed collection with Williams Sonoma Home and has done special projects with many major brands including One Kings Lane, Bravo Television, American Express, KitchenAid, Kohler, Auberge du Soleil, and Peninsula Hotels.  Paloma has a book named Dream Design Live and a curated retail shop, Paloma & Co. And last but not least - she’s a lady after my own heart - she just launched The Style Files Podcast. When she gets a free second, Paloma enjoys traveling with her husband, Fabian, and spending time with their sweet dog, Tate. Show Highlights: Paloma credits her success to her passion, tenacity, and the ability to recognize opportunities. Consistency is necessary when you’re trying to build an audience, a brand, or a name for yourself. How Paloma went from being a bored high school Spanish teacher to starting a design blog as a creative writing outlet. Paloma shares the opportunities that enabled her to hone a different set of skills and her new design career that followed. Just because you’re seeing “xyz” in your social media feed because everyone is doing “xyz” doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you. Things that you need to have in place before hiring a publicist. What it takes to be recognized by the press. Success can take years of hard work, sacrifice, and even some failures. "Make it a pleasure to work with you!” - Paloma Contreras Paloma addresses being an Elle Decor A-Lister. Connect with Paloma! Paloma’s Website Paloma’s Instagram Paloma’s Blog Paloma’s Podcast:The Style Files Podcast Paloma’s Email  Order Your Copy of Paloma’s Book, Dream Design Live! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Visual Comfort #408 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Robin Baron #32 #540  Shea McGee #236 #270   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is the Paloma Contreras - the Elle A-list, Forbes recognized, shop-owning, fabulously talented design influencer. You know, the Paloma Contreras that has163,000 Instagram followers? This lady is one amazing powerhouse! Keep listening, though, because it wasn’t always that way. She is a lady who cried on Sundays because she dreaded her work week so much, then went on to find her niche, love her job, and become that Elle Decor A-Lister.

Don’t miss LuAnn’s and Paloma’s inspiring conversation about trusting your gut, taking action even when you’re afraid or unsure, and going for the big dream in your head and making it reality.

Based in Houston, Texas, Paloma has honed her eye for style over more than a decade in the design industry. She has developed a reputation for designing beautiful interiors in a broad range of styles which are executed in a manner that is polished, refined, and effortless. 

Paloma has repeatedly been named on the prestigious ELLE Decor “A-List” of the top interior designers in the world. She’s been recognized as a “Next Wave” interior designer by House Beautiful and has been named to LUXE Magazine’s “Gold List”. 

Paloma was named #4 on the Forbes list of the Top Social Media Influencers in the Home category and according to ELLE Decor, is one of the Top 10 interior design Instagram accounts to follow.

She recently debuted a licensed collection with Williams Sonoma Home and has done special projects with many major brands including One Kings Lane, Bravo Television, American Express, KitchenAid, Kohler, Auberge du Soleil, and Peninsula Hotels. 

Paloma has a book named Dream Design Live and a curated retail shop, Paloma & Co. And last but not least - she’s a lady after my own heart - she just launched The Style Files Podcast.

When she gets a free second, Paloma enjoys traveling with her husband, Fabian, and spending time with their sweet dog, Tate.

Show Highlights:

  • Paloma credits her success to her passion, tenacity, and the ability to recognize opportunities.
  • Consistency is necessary when you’re trying to build an audience, a brand, or a name for yourself.
  • How Paloma went from being a bored high school Spanish teacher to starting a design blog as a creative writing outlet.
  • Paloma shares the opportunities that enabled her to hone a different set of skills and her new design career that followed.
  • Just because you’re seeing “xyz” in your social media feed because everyone is doing “xyz” doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you.
  • Things that you need to have in place before hiring a publicist.
  • What it takes to be recognized by the press.
  • Success can take years of hard work, sacrifice, and even some failures.
  • "Make it a pleasure to work with you!” - Paloma Contreras
  • Paloma addresses being an Elle Decor A-Lister.

Connect with Paloma!

Paloma’s Website

Paloma’s Instagram

Paloma’s Blog

Paloma’s Podcast:The Style Files Podcast

Paloma’s Email 

Order Your Copy of Paloma’s Book, Dream Design Live!

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM

Visual Comfort #408

Amber Lewis #169, #184

Robin Baron #32 #540 

Shea McGee #236 #270



 

]]> 3391 no 580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/579-brad-leavitt-aft-construction-the-two-b-words-budget-builders Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt of A.F.T. Construction back on the show today. Brad is here to talk with us about the “B” word - budgets! And the other “B” word - builders! Taking charge of the money for our projects is vital. In fact, it’s absolutely necessary if you want to build amazing client relationships and get the respect you deserve from your builders - and really anyone you interact with in your business. Brad is going to get into that with us today. Plus, LuAnn has been saving a question from one of her designers for him, so listen in to hear that question and see how Brad responds. Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge, and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Show Highlights: What designers can do to make sure their design matches the client’s budget. How conversations between the designer and builder should go. Builders should set designers up for success by letting the designer know the budget early on. Brad answers a question that LuAnn shares from her friend, Jillian, concerning Jillian asking a builder to give the client a quote based on the deliverables that the client wanted. This request caused a major problem between the builder and the designer. One of the common mistakes we make is jumping to conclusions about what we think our clients want to hear. Network with builders in your area and network with designers outside your area to find out how they’re working with budgets. The most successful designers have a good idea of pricing, even outside their scope of design. Do your resourcing homework on your own time. Invest a certain amount of time each week or each month where you’re on your own clock. Many builders today are open to a working relationship with designers and architects. Connect with Brad! Brad’s Website  Brad’s Instagram Brad’s Facebook Brad’s Pinterest Brad’sLinkedIn All of Brad’s social media handles are “AFT_Construction”. Brad’s podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast”. Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brad’s other show: #542 & #560     Fri, 21 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders full 580 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt of A.F.T. Construction back on the show today. Brad is here to talk with us about the “B” word - budgets! And the other “B” word - builders! Taking charge of the money for our... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt of A.F.T. Construction back on the show today. Brad is here to talk with us about the “B” word - budgets! And the other “B” word - builders! Taking charge of the money for our projects is vital. In fact, it’s absolutely necessary if you want to build amazing client relationships and get the respect you deserve from your builders - and really anyone you interact with in your business. Brad is going to get into that with us today. Plus, LuAnn has been saving a question from one of her designers for him, so listen in to hear that question and see how Brad responds. Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker. Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.   Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge, and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area. In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports Show Highlights: What designers can do to make sure their design matches the client’s budget. How conversations between the designer and builder should go. Builders should set designers up for success by letting the designer know the budget early on. Brad answers a question that LuAnn shares from her friend, Jillian, concerning Jillian asking a builder to give the client a quote based on the deliverables that the client wanted. This request caused a major problem between the builder and the designer. One of the common mistakes we make is jumping to conclusions about what we think our clients want to hear. Network with builders in your area and network with designers outside your area to find out how they’re working with budgets. The most successful designers have a good idea of pricing, even outside their scope of design. Do your resourcing homework on your own time. Invest a certain amount of time each week or each month where you’re on your own clock. Many builders today are open to a working relationship with designers and architects. Connect with Brad! Brad’s Website  Brad’s Instagram Brad’s Facebook Brad’s Pinterest Brad’sLinkedIn All of Brad’s social media handles are “AFT_Construction”. Brad’s podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast”. Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brad’s other show: #542 & #560     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt of A.F.T. Construction back on the show today. Brad is here to talk with us about the “B” word - budgets! And the other “B” word - builders! Taking charge of the money for our projects is vital. In fact, it’s absolutely necessary if you want to build amazing client relationships and get the respect you deserve from your builders - and really anyone you interact with in your business. Brad is going to get into that with us today. Plus, LuAnn has been saving a question from one of her designers for him, so listen in to hear that question and see how Brad responds.

Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker.

Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children.  He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe.  Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.  

Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each.  After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge, and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area.

In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality.

Brad is married to Ashley Leavitt. Together, they have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy.  Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports

Show Highlights:

  • What designers can do to make sure their design matches the client’s budget.
  • How conversations between the designer and builder should go.
  • Builders should set designers up for success by letting the designer know the budget early on.
  • Brad answers a question that LuAnn shares from her friend, Jillian, concerning Jillian asking a builder to give the client a quote based on the deliverables that the client wanted. This request caused a major problem between the builder and the designer.
  • One of the common mistakes we make is jumping to conclusions about what we think our clients want to hear.
  • Network with builders in your area and network with designers outside your area to find out how they’re working with budgets.
  • The most successful designers have a good idea of pricing, even outside their scope of design.
  • Do your resourcing homework on your own time. Invest a certain amount of time each week or each month where you’re on your own clock.
  • Many builders today are open to a working relationship with designers and architects.

Connect with Brad!

Brad’s Website 

Brad’s Instagram

Brad’s Facebook

Brad’s Pinterest

Brad’sLinkedIn

All of Brad’s social media handles are “AFT_Construction”.

Brad’s podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast”.

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to include in show notes:

Brad’s other show: #542 & #560

 

 

]]> 3553 no 579: #BLM Albie Buabeng: The Seed of Accessibility http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/579-blm-albie-buabeng-the-seed-of-accessibility Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, and welcome to another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series! Albie Buabeng, a specialist in e-design, joins LuAnn to share the internal struggle she had when she first began her design firm, and her desire to be part of the change in our world so that her daughter’s generation reaps the benefits. This is one #smartlady who walks the talk. Albie also shares some valuable resources, so don’t miss this! As both interior designer and content creator, Albie's passion for decoding spaces is the culmination of nearly a decade of retail visual merchandising and freelance marketing, sprinkled with a lifetime of experiences. Using her background of space design and storytelling, Albie took her real-life lessons and launched an online interior design service. Her love of design has since evolved into a destination for inspiration centered around her blog, video content, social media, podcast, and self-published book, in addition to her current role as the marketing coordinator for a Seattle-based interior design firm. Show Highlights: The impact of Albie’s initiative with #sharethemicnowhomeedition Albie’s deeper exploration into the accessibility of beautifully designed homes How our reactions are being internalized by our audiences that are watching us Albie relates her experience with her first black client “Brown girls aren’t ballerinas” - Albie shares a conversation with her daughter A gut-punch moment: Going into a profession that is so personal only to find out that the black community felt completely disconnected and neglected from it The importance of normalizing these hard conversations No matter how small your part may seem, it still matters. Connect with Albie! Albie’s Instagram Albie’s YouTube Albie’s Website Albie’s Email  Albie’s Book, which just celebrated its first anniversary! The Design Influence podcast resumes this fall! #sharethemicnowhomeedition A Special Note from Albie: First and foremost, I urge everyone to look up their local (city) NAACP chapter, BLM, and bond fund. National contributions are amazing, but there's so much we can do within our own zip codes, especially to help people already doing the work.  Secondly, as creatives, find your local creative institutions to support and/or work with. We do not always know how to step into the arena of activism because we believe it has to be some grand gesture like a large donation and/or protesting, but that just isn't the case. For example, here in Washington, we have the Northwest African American Museum. In southern New Jersey, there's the African American Heritage Museum.  Keeping the culture and history alive for current and upcoming generations is as important as dismantling broken systems.  Lastly, on my blog I compiled two separate lists of books on diversity & racism -- one for adults and one for kids.  Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Albie’s original appearance # 348 Cheryl Luckett #291, #397, 573 Beth Diana Smith #439  Veronica Solomon #50    Thu, 20 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 #BLM Albie Buabeng: The Seed of Accessibility full 579 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, and welcome to another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series! Albie Buabeng, a specialist in e-design, joins LuAnn to share the internal struggle she had when she first began her design firm, and her desire... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, and welcome to another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series! Albie Buabeng, a specialist in e-design, joins LuAnn to share the internal struggle she had when she first began her design firm, and her desire to be part of the change in our world so that her daughter’s generation reaps the benefits. This is one #smartlady who walks the talk. Albie also shares some valuable resources, so don’t miss this! As both interior designer and content creator, Albie's passion for decoding spaces is the culmination of nearly a decade of retail visual merchandising and freelance marketing, sprinkled with a lifetime of experiences. Using her background of space design and storytelling, Albie took her real-life lessons and launched an online interior design service. Her love of design has since evolved into a destination for inspiration centered around her blog, video content, social media, podcast, and self-published book, in addition to her current role as the marketing coordinator for a Seattle-based interior design firm. Show Highlights: The impact of Albie’s initiative with #sharethemicnowhomeedition Albie’s deeper exploration into the accessibility of beautifully designed homes How our reactions are being internalized by our audiences that are watching us Albie relates her experience with her first black client “Brown girls aren’t ballerinas” - Albie shares a conversation with her daughter A gut-punch moment: Going into a profession that is so personal only to find out that the black community felt completely disconnected and neglected from it The importance of normalizing these hard conversations No matter how small your part may seem, it still matters. Connect with Albie! Albie’s Instagram Albie’s YouTube Albie’s Website Albie’s Email  Albie’s Book, which just celebrated its first anniversary! The Design Influence podcast resumes this fall! #sharethemicnowhomeedition A Special Note from Albie: First and foremost, I urge everyone to look up their local (city) NAACP chapter, BLM, and bond fund. National contributions are amazing, but there's so much we can do within our own zip codes, especially to help people already doing the work.  Secondly, as creatives, find your local creative institutions to support and/or work with. We do not always know how to step into the arena of activism because we believe it has to be some grand gesture like a large donation and/or protesting, but that just isn't the case. For example, here in Washington, we have the Northwest African American Museum. In southern New Jersey, there's the African American Heritage Museum.  Keeping the culture and history alive for current and upcoming generations is as important as dismantling broken systems.  Lastly, on my blog I compiled two separate lists of books on diversity & racism -- one for adults and one for kids.  Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Albie’s original appearance # 348 Cheryl Luckett #291, #397, 573 Beth Diana Smith #439  Veronica Solomon #50    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, and welcome to another conversation in our Black Lives Matter series! Albie Buabeng, a specialist in e-design, joins LuAnn to share the internal struggle she had when she first began her design firm, and her desire to be part of the change in our world so that her daughter’s generation reaps the benefits. This is one #smartlady who walks the talk. Albie also shares some valuable resources, so don’t miss this!

As both interior designer and content creator, Albie's passion for decoding spaces is the culmination of nearly a decade of retail visual merchandising and freelance marketing, sprinkled with a lifetime of experiences. Using her background of space design and storytelling, Albie took her real-life lessons and launched an online interior design service. Her love of design has since evolved into a destination for inspiration centered around her blog, video content, social media, podcast, and self-published book, in addition to her current role as the marketing coordinator for a Seattle-based interior design firm.

Show Highlights:

  • The impact of Albie’s initiative with #sharethemicnowhomeedition
  • Albie’s deeper exploration into the accessibility of beautifully designed homes
  • How our reactions are being internalized by our audiences that are watching us
  • Albie relates her experience with her first black client
  • “Brown girls aren’t ballerinas” - Albie shares a conversation with her daughter
  • A gut-punch moment: Going into a profession that is so personal only to find out that the black community felt completely disconnected and neglected from it
  • The importance of normalizing these hard conversations
  • No matter how small your part may seem, it still matters.

Connect with Albie!

Albie’s Instagram

Albie’s YouTube

Albie’s Website

Albie’s Email 

Albie’s Book, which just celebrated its first anniversary!

The Design Influence podcast resumes this fall!

#sharethemicnowhomeedition

A Special Note from Albie:

  • First and foremost, I urge everyone to look up their local (city) NAACP chapter, BLM, and bond fund. National contributions are amazing, but there's so much we can do within our own zip codes, especially to help people already doing the work. 
  • Secondly, as creatives, find your local creative institutions to support and/or work with. We do not always know how to step into the arena of activism because we believe it has to be some grand gesture like a large donation and/or protesting, but that just isn't the case. For example, here in Washington, we have the Northwest African American Museum. In southern New Jersey, there's the African American Heritage Museum.  Keeping the culture and history alive for current and upcoming generations is as important as dismantling broken systems. 
  • Lastly, on my blog I compiled two separate lists of books on diversity & racism -- one for adults and one for kids. 

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Albie’s original appearance # 348

Cheryl Luckett #291, #397, 573

Beth Diana Smith #439 

Veronica Solomon #50 

 

]]> 3843 no 578: Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/578-lori-morris-when-working-with-the-luxury-client-the-answer-is-yes Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect.  Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals.  Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style. Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs. Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects.  Show Highlights: Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service. Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents. “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves. Every house is treated like an original painting. The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform. Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice. Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights. The importance of a mutually respectful relationship. Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do. It is key to manage your client’s expectations. There’s always a solution to a problem! Connect with Lori! Lori’s Website Lori’s Instagram Lori’s Twitter Lori’s Facebook Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business   Tue, 18 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Lori Morris: When Working with the Luxury Client, the Answer is Yes! full 578 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect.  Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals.  Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style. Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs. Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects.  Show Highlights: Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service. Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents. “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves. Every house is treated like an original painting. The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform. Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice. Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights. The importance of a mutually respectful relationship. Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do. It is key to manage your client’s expectations. There’s always a solution to a problem! Connect with Lori! Lori’s Website Lori’s Instagram Lori’s Twitter Lori’s Facebook Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen. Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Lori Morris, one of the most passionate and driven people LuAnn has ever come across, joins the show today to share what it takes to grow your business to the level of attracting luxury clients and delivering the level of service and design that they expect. 

Even as Lori’s business has grown so large, she maintains creative control and has a hand in every project they tackle. If you want to attract those luxury clients, if you want to work on these magnificent homes, if you want to offer that truly above and beyond level of service, then stay tuned to LuAnn and Lori’s conversation for takeaways that you can apply to your business to help reach your goals. 

Not one to merely dip her toe in the water, Lori Morris is an ‘all or nothing’ designer whose artistry is rooted in tradition, unconventional ideas and fearless execution of perfection. Reinventing the standard of design since 1987, her work can be found in some of the most high-end properties across Canada and North America, including Miami, Dallas, St. Louis and San Francisco, with each project delivering a unique, timeless look with an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort and style.

Leading an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad, Lori Morris is a full-service firm offering a complete design and build turnkey solution for any project. Lori’s ‘no rules’ design philosophy has evolved into her own signature LMD style, which she coins “Sexy French.” In every space, you’ll find a seamless melding of sensory, form and function, with materials sourced from artisans across the world that provide intricate molding, artful flooring, and walls that use some of the most exotic and rare marbles. Leading by way of example for strength and confidence, Lori continues to be revered as one of the most coveted designers in the interior design world, empowering others by embracing her role as a role model for all women entrepreneurs.

Lori is an “all or nothing” designer who works on high-end properties across Canada and North America. She delivers an unprecedented level of luxury, comfort, and style with every project. Lori is a true artist who prides herself on creating a unique feeling for every one of her clients. Tune in to learn about her ‘no rules’ design philosophy, which has evolved into her own signature style, and her advice on attracting luxury clients and scaling your business toward high-end projects. 

Show Highlights:

  • Lori explains the unique purpose of her “LMC” (Lori Morris Concierge) service.
  • Lori details why the Design Build Books that she delivers to architects can be 1,000 page documents.
  • “Sexy French” is a collaboration and a marriage between the modern design that Lori loves and the French design that she loves.
  • Every house is treated like an original painting.
  • The moment that Lori decided to get the kind of clients to perform the kind of magic that she wanted to perform.
  • Learn from your mistakes: It’s not a mistake if you have the experience once. It’s only a mistake if you do the same thing twice.
  • Lessons working with the luxury client: Lori shares her insights.
  • The importance of a mutually respectful relationship.
  • Don’t confuse “red flags” with something that you just don’t want to do.
  • It is key to manage your client’s expectations.
  • There’s always a solution to a problem!

Connect with Lori!

Lori’s Website

Lori’s Instagram

Lori’s Twitter

Lori’s Facebook

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen.

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

 

]]> 3549 no 577: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/577-power-talk-friday-amber-de-la-garza-luann-is-in-the-productivity-hot-seat Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a very special episode for you today. Amber De La Garza is back with her on the show. Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist. She is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s third book coming out this fall, which is A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2.  This episode is a little bit different than most, because today LuAnn and Amber are going to be talking about the work that they have accomplished, the internal stories and beliefs that Amber has helped LuAnn overcome, and the ways that they adapted strategies and worked through obstacles together, allowing LuAnn to reclaim some of her own time. They’re going to pull back the curtain on their process and the lessons that were learned along the way.  Amber is a coach, trainer, speaker, and writer, and she hosts her own podcast, Productivity Straight Talk. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity, which in turn lets them maximize profits, reduce stress, and free up time for what matters most.  Show Highlights: Amber has been helping LuAnn reclaim balance in both her personal and work life. Amber guided LuAnn through the strategies that weren’t working for her. Working one on one enables you to revise and tweak a strategy until it works for you. LuAnn describes her startling realization that she had normalized a seven-day work week. The stories that we tell ourselves: How we can take back some of that time and create a new and sustainable LuAnn shares how she almost stopped doing her intro’s and outro’s for the show but received plenty of confirmation to continue. This show is her baby and LuAnn is emotionally invested in it. Amber explains the concept and importance of “highest value activities”. As your business grows, you have to outsource and delegate. And you have to be ok with accepting help! Amber challenged LuAnn in ways that made LuAnn question beliefs that she was so convinced were unchangeable.  When you re-evaluate doing things that are just normalized, then you will be able to look at everything in your business with a fresh perspective. Connect with Amber! Amber’s Website Amber’s Podcast Amber’s Facebook Amber’s Instagram Time Management Made Simple - Amber’s 4 module program that will teach you her proven, step-by-step time management system for small business owners, to move you from stressed out and overwhelmed to fully in control and fulfilled! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Link Previous Shows: Amber De La Garza #385  Madeleine MacRae #283, #315  Design Writer Deb #573    Fri, 14 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amber de la Garza, LuAnn is in the “Productivity” Hot Seat full 577 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a very special episode for you today. Amber De La Garza is back with her on the show. Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist. She is also one of the co-authors of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a very special episode for you today. Amber De La Garza is back with her on the show. Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist. She is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s third book coming out this fall, which is A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2.  This episode is a little bit different than most, because today LuAnn and Amber are going to be talking about the work that they have accomplished, the internal stories and beliefs that Amber has helped LuAnn overcome, and the ways that they adapted strategies and worked through obstacles together, allowing LuAnn to reclaim some of her own time. They’re going to pull back the curtain on their process and the lessons that were learned along the way.  Amber is a coach, trainer, speaker, and writer, and she hosts her own podcast, Productivity Straight Talk. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity, which in turn lets them maximize profits, reduce stress, and free up time for what matters most.  Show Highlights: Amber has been helping LuAnn reclaim balance in both her personal and work life. Amber guided LuAnn through the strategies that weren’t working for her. Working one on one enables you to revise and tweak a strategy until it works for you. LuAnn describes her startling realization that she had normalized a seven-day work week. The stories that we tell ourselves: How we can take back some of that time and create a new and sustainable LuAnn shares how she almost stopped doing her intro’s and outro’s for the show but received plenty of confirmation to continue. This show is her baby and LuAnn is emotionally invested in it. Amber explains the concept and importance of “highest value activities”. As your business grows, you have to outsource and delegate. And you have to be ok with accepting help! Amber challenged LuAnn in ways that made LuAnn question beliefs that she was so convinced were unchangeable.  When you re-evaluate doing things that are just normalized, then you will be able to look at everything in your business with a fresh perspective. Connect with Amber! Amber’s Website Amber’s Podcast Amber’s Facebook Amber’s Instagram Time Management Made Simple - Amber’s 4 module program that will teach you her proven, step-by-step time management system for small business owners, to move you from stressed out and overwhelmed to fully in control and fulfilled! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Link Previous Shows: Amber De La Garza #385  Madeleine MacRae #283, #315  Design Writer Deb #573    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a very special episode for you today. Amber De La Garza is back with her on the show.

Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist. She is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s third book coming out this fall, which is A Well Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2. 

This episode is a little bit different than most, because today LuAnn and Amber are going to be talking about the work that they have accomplished, the internal stories and beliefs that Amber has helped LuAnn overcome, and the ways that they adapted strategies and worked through obstacles together, allowing LuAnn to reclaim some of her own time. They’re going to pull back the curtain on their process and the lessons that were learned along the way. 

Amber is a coach, trainer, speaker, and writer, and she hosts her own podcast, Productivity Straight Talk. She helps business owners improve their time management and elevate their productivity, which in turn lets them maximize profits, reduce stress, and free up time for what matters most. 

Show Highlights:

  • Amber has been helping LuAnn reclaim balance in both her personal and work life.
  • Amber guided LuAnn through the strategies that weren’t working for her.
  • Working one on one enables you to revise and tweak a strategy until it works for you.
  • LuAnn describes her startling realization that she had normalized a seven-day work week.
  • The stories that we tell ourselves: How we can take back some of that time and create a new and sustainable
  • LuAnn shares how she almost stopped doing her intro’s and outro’s for the show but received plenty of confirmation to continue.
  • This show is her baby and LuAnn is emotionally invested in it.
  • Amber explains the concept and importance of “highest value activities”.
  • As your business grows, you have to outsource and delegate. And you have to be ok with accepting help!
  • Amber challenged LuAnn in ways that made LuAnn question beliefs that she was so convinced were unchangeable. 
  • When you re-evaluate doing things that are just normalized, then you will be able to look at everything in your business with a fresh perspective.

Connect with Amber!

Amber’s Website

Amber’s Podcast

Amber’s Facebook

Amber’s Instagram

Time Management Made Simple - Amber’s 4 module program that will teach you her proven, step-by-step time management system for small business owners, to move you from stressed out and overwhelmed to fully in control and fulfilled!

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Link Previous Shows:

Amber De La Garza #385  Madeleine MacRae #283, #315  Design Writer Deb #573 

 

]]> 4421 no 576: What Would Lu Do: My Client Ghosted Me, Again! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/576-what-would-lu-do-my-client-ghosted-me-again Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Carol Ann Hirvat. Carol worked with a client a few years ago on a $45,000 job that ultimately never went anywhere. Then out of the blue, the client reaches out with an apology and requested for a second chance. Guess what happens after Carol invests another 15 hours into the deal? Yep! So Carol would like to know her next best steps. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Carol’s situation. Giving the benefit of the doubt to the client, consider that there might be other possible reasons for the client’s action other than an ulterior motive. Just because Carol gives the client the benefit of the doubt does not mean that the client is off the hook. The client owes an explanation, so LuAnn advises Carol to unapologetically check in with the client on a weekly, bi weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis until she gets some answers.  Carol can still be super kind and respectful while pursuing her answer. LuAnn offers some thoughtful strategies regarding reaching out and following up. Carol should keep in mind that she can’t force a communication. Focus on the positive things about the client and the relationship. Remember: Gentle persistence! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: awdb10 Kravet Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now. For quality furniture that can be delivered, fast, easy, and direct to your client: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!   Thu, 13 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: My Client Ghosted Me, Again! full 576 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Carol Ann Hirvat. Carol worked with a client a few years... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Carol Ann Hirvat. Carol worked with a client a few years ago on a $45,000 job that ultimately never went anywhere. Then out of the blue, the client reaches out with an apology and requested for a second chance. Guess what happens after Carol invests another 15 hours into the deal? Yep! So Carol would like to know her next best steps. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Carol’s situation. Giving the benefit of the doubt to the client, consider that there might be other possible reasons for the client’s action other than an ulterior motive. Just because Carol gives the client the benefit of the doubt does not mean that the client is off the hook. The client owes an explanation, so LuAnn advises Carol to unapologetically check in with the client on a weekly, bi weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis until she gets some answers.  Carol can still be super kind and respectful while pursuing her answer. LuAnn offers some thoughtful strategies regarding reaching out and following up. Carol should keep in mind that she can’t force a communication. Focus on the positive things about the client and the relationship. Remember: Gentle persistence! Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: awdb10 Kravet Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now. For quality furniture that can be delivered, fast, easy, and direct to your client: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Carol Ann Hirvat. Carol worked with a client a few years ago on a $45,000 job that ultimately never went anywhere. Then out of the blue, the client reaches out with an apology and requested for a second chance. Guess what happens after Carol invests another 15 hours into the deal? Yep! So Carol would like to know her next best steps.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn provides the details around Carol’s situation.
  • Giving the benefit of the doubt to the client, consider that there might be other possible reasons for the client’s action other than an ulterior motive.
  • Just because Carol gives the client the benefit of the doubt does not mean that the client is off the hook.
  • The client owes an explanation, so LuAnn advises Carol to unapologetically check in with the client on a weekly, bi weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis until she gets some answers. 
  • Carol can still be super kind and respectful while pursuing her answer.
  • LuAnn offers some thoughtful strategies regarding reaching out and following up.
  • Carol should keep in mind that she can’t force a communication.
  • Focus on the positive things about the client and the relationship.
  • Remember: Gentle persistence!

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim!

Use Code at Checkout: awdb10

Kravet

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now.

For quality furniture that can be delivered, fast, easy, and direct to your client:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

 

]]> 1112 no 575: Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/575-lisa-gilmore-finance-fridays-from-850k-to-225-million-in-one-year Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is someone who made quite an impression on the audience during a LuAnn Live event by sharing her “eat, pray, love” story. Lisa Gilmore told the audience how she was in such a hard space, mismanaging money, and doing all the things incredibly wrong. Who didn’t feel a connection with this lady for her honesty and bravery? Listen in to find out how Lisa turned her business (and life!) around by owning her errors and being consistent, and just see if there’s not something in here that you can use for your own. Lisa Gilmore, one of the Southeast’s leading luxury residential designers, is known for the customized one-of-a-kind interiors she creates for large scale homes and condos in Tampa Bay and throughout North America. She has over a decade of experience providing luxury environments for CEO’s, attorneys, business owners, entrepreneurs, tech company executives, and other prominent clients. Her work and her unique “liveable glamour” style have been featured in online and print publications worldwide. Lisa’s full range of design services includes everything from project management and consulting on architectural and floor plans, to specifying finishes and creating detailed hand renderings of her work. Lisa establishes close personal relationships with her clients. Those clients use phrases like “remarkably talented”, “fantastic to work with”, and “organized, good natured and easy to communicate with” to characterize Lisa and her team, and “functional and beautiful” and “out of the box thinking” to describe her work. She is often praised for pulling people out of their comfort zone with interior design and giving her clients what they never knew could exist. Lisa Gilmore Design is backed by a team of some of the region’s leading contractors, craftsmen, and artisans as well as an international network of vendors and suppliers.  Her clients benefit from the luxury design expertise, problem solving insights, product knowledge, and other skills she gained during her highly successful earlier career working for leading interior design firms in central Florida and Chicago. Her design work is influenced by her travels throughout North America, Europe, and Africa. Lisa holds a degree in interior design and is a member of the International Interior Design Association. She keeps current on design trends by attending conferences, trade shows, and other industry events.  Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the email that she received from Lisa. Lisa relates something that LuAnn mentioned previously that gave her an epiphany as to the root of her problem. Fear held Lisa back, but she found processes and systems that turned things around. This helped her gain confidence! “Finance Friday” How LuAnn’s book helped Lisa get her business back on track. Lisa shares how being turned in to the state by another designer turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Lisa explains the business decisions and billing changes that she put into place. You have to be more versatile to survive through the hard times. How getting your finances figured out can actually bring joy! Here’s what Lisa is looking forward to. Connect with Lisa! Lisa’s Email Lisa’s Website Lisa’s Instagram Lisa’s Facebook Lisa’s Pinterest Lisa’s Twitter  Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Peter Lang #349, 464 Michele Williams #115, #390   Tue, 11 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year! full 575 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is someone who made quite an impression on the audience during a LuAnn Live event by sharing her “eat, pray, love” story. Lisa Gilmore told the audience how she was in such a hard space,... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is someone who made quite an impression on the audience during a LuAnn Live event by sharing her “eat, pray, love” story. Lisa Gilmore told the audience how she was in such a hard space, mismanaging money, and doing all the things incredibly wrong. Who didn’t feel a connection with this lady for her honesty and bravery? Listen in to find out how Lisa turned her business (and life!) around by owning her errors and being consistent, and just see if there’s not something in here that you can use for your own. Lisa Gilmore, one of the Southeast’s leading luxury residential designers, is known for the customized one-of-a-kind interiors she creates for large scale homes and condos in Tampa Bay and throughout North America. She has over a decade of experience providing luxury environments for CEO’s, attorneys, business owners, entrepreneurs, tech company executives, and other prominent clients. Her work and her unique “liveable glamour” style have been featured in online and print publications worldwide. Lisa’s full range of design services includes everything from project management and consulting on architectural and floor plans, to specifying finishes and creating detailed hand renderings of her work. Lisa establishes close personal relationships with her clients. Those clients use phrases like “remarkably talented”, “fantastic to work with”, and “organized, good natured and easy to communicate with” to characterize Lisa and her team, and “functional and beautiful” and “out of the box thinking” to describe her work. She is often praised for pulling people out of their comfort zone with interior design and giving her clients what they never knew could exist. Lisa Gilmore Design is backed by a team of some of the region’s leading contractors, craftsmen, and artisans as well as an international network of vendors and suppliers.  Her clients benefit from the luxury design expertise, problem solving insights, product knowledge, and other skills she gained during her highly successful earlier career working for leading interior design firms in central Florida and Chicago. Her design work is influenced by her travels throughout North America, Europe, and Africa. Lisa holds a degree in interior design and is a member of the International Interior Design Association. She keeps current on design trends by attending conferences, trade shows, and other industry events.  Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the email that she received from Lisa. Lisa relates something that LuAnn mentioned previously that gave her an epiphany as to the root of her problem. Fear held Lisa back, but she found processes and systems that turned things around. This helped her gain confidence! “Finance Friday” How LuAnn’s book helped Lisa get her business back on track. Lisa shares how being turned in to the state by another designer turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Lisa explains the business decisions and billing changes that she put into place. You have to be more versatile to survive through the hard times. How getting your finances figured out can actually bring joy! Here’s what Lisa is looking forward to. Connect with Lisa! Lisa’s Email Lisa’s Website Lisa’s Instagram Lisa’s Facebook Lisa’s Pinterest Lisa’s Twitter  Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September LuAnn University The Profit Is In The Numbers The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang Coming September 2020! Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20 Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24 Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Peter Lang #349, 464 Michele Williams #115, #390   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is someone who made quite an impression on the audience during a LuAnn Live event by sharing her “eat, pray, love” story. Lisa Gilmore told the audience how she was in such a hard space, mismanaging money, and doing all the things incredibly wrong. Who didn’t feel a connection with this lady for her honesty and bravery? Listen in to find out how Lisa turned her business (and life!) around by owning her errors and being consistent, and just see if there’s not something in here that you can use for your own.

Lisa Gilmore, one of the Southeast’s leading luxury residential designers, is known for the customized one-of-a-kind interiors she creates for large scale homes and condos in Tampa Bay and throughout North America.

She has over a decade of experience providing luxury environments for CEO’s, attorneys, business owners, entrepreneurs, tech company executives, and other prominent clients. Her work and her unique “liveable glamour” style have been featured in online and print publications worldwide.

Lisa’s full range of design services includes everything from project management and consulting on architectural and floor plans, to specifying finishes and creating detailed hand renderings of her work.

Lisa establishes close personal relationships with her clients. Those clients use phrases like “remarkably talented”, “fantastic to work with”, and “organized, good natured and easy to communicate with” to characterize Lisa and her team, and “functional and beautiful” and “out of the box thinking” to describe her work. She is often praised for pulling people out of their comfort zone with interior design and giving her clients what they never knew could exist.

Lisa Gilmore Design is backed by a team of some of the region’s leading contractors, craftsmen, and artisans as well as an international network of vendors and suppliers. 

Her clients benefit from the luxury design expertise, problem solving insights, product knowledge, and other skills she gained during her highly successful earlier career working for leading interior design firms in central Florida and Chicago. Her design work is influenced by her travels throughout North America, Europe, and Africa.

Lisa holds a degree in interior design and is a member of the International Interior Design Association. She keeps current on design trends by attending conferences, trade shows, and other industry events. 


Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the email that she received from Lisa.
  • Lisa relates something that LuAnn mentioned previously that gave her an epiphany as to the root of her problem.
  • Fear held Lisa back, but she found processes and systems that turned things around. This helped her gain confidence!
  • “Finance Friday”
  • How LuAnn’s book helped Lisa get her business back on track.
  • Lisa shares how being turned in to the state by another designer turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
  • Lisa explains the business decisions and billing changes that she put into place.
  • You have to be more versatile to survive through the hard times.
  • How getting your finances figured out can actually bring joy!
  • Here’s what Lisa is looking forward to.

Connect with Lisa!

Lisa’s Email

Lisa’s Website

Lisa’s Instagram

Lisa’s Facebook

Lisa’s Pinterest

Lisa’s Twitter 

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

LuAnn University

The Profit Is In The Numbers

The Profit Is In The Numbers 101 with Kathleen Anderson

The Profit Is In The Numbers 102 with Peter Lang

Coming September 2020!

Early Bird Registration Sept 4 - Sept 20

Classes: Sept 22 - Sept 24

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM

Peter Lang #349, 464

Michele Williams #115, #390

 

]]> 4351 no 574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/574-power-talk-friday-deb-mitchell-attract-the-right-clients-with-stand-out-copy Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn shares a conversation with Deb Mitchell on today’s show. You may know Deb on Instagram as DesignWriterDeb. She’s a writer specializing in serving interior designers. Did you know that your own writing style can differentiate yourself from other designers in the way it reflects your personality and your style? And that the most impactful way of writing speaks to the client? Listen in for tips on how you can make this happen, or how you can work with Deb if you’re needing a little extra help in communicating effectively with your ideal client. Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services. Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites. Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs. Show Highlights: Start the writing process with getting to know your clients. What do they care about? When writing, differentiate yourself by considering how you are different from your colleague in aesthetic, processes, delivery of services, and personality. Make your writing reflective of you. Don’t write a bio that’s so vanilla we can substitute another designer’s name for yours. Don’t be intimidated about writing. Get your ideas out of your head and get someone to take a look at your copy and help with editing. Create a “messaging” folder - it’s a living document used to hold your core words, thoughts, and phrases. Add to it as you come up with copy that helps define you and will resonate with your clients. Start by finishing these statements: I believe my clients deserve… I believe my clients should experience… When speaking about me, someone said... To create consistent messaging, refer to this file when writing your social media, creating a new web page, or preparing to speak on a panel. Read your reviews to get ideas and reflect the language your clients use. LuAnn and Deb cover the services that Deb offers. Connect with Deb! Deb’s Email Deb’s Website - Schedule a Free Consultation Today! Deb’s Instagram Deb’s Facebook Deb’s Pinterest Websites Mentioned: Blakely Interiordesign Victoria At Home Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link to #174 Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #125 Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business #544 Natalie Norcross: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR #364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm   Fri, 07 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy full 574 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn shares a conversation with Deb Mitchell on today’s show. You may know Deb on Instagram as DesignWriterDeb. She’s a writer specializing in serving interior designers. Did you know... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn shares a conversation with Deb Mitchell on today’s show. You may know Deb on Instagram as DesignWriterDeb. She’s a writer specializing in serving interior designers. Did you know that your own writing style can differentiate yourself from other designers in the way it reflects your personality and your style? And that the most impactful way of writing speaks to the client? Listen in for tips on how you can make this happen, or how you can work with Deb if you’re needing a little extra help in communicating effectively with your ideal client. Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services. Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites. Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs. Show Highlights: Start the writing process with getting to know your clients. What do they care about? When writing, differentiate yourself by considering how you are different from your colleague in aesthetic, processes, delivery of services, and personality. Make your writing reflective of you. Don’t write a bio that’s so vanilla we can substitute another designer’s name for yours. Don’t be intimidated about writing. Get your ideas out of your head and get someone to take a look at your copy and help with editing. Create a “messaging” folder - it’s a living document used to hold your core words, thoughts, and phrases. Add to it as you come up with copy that helps define you and will resonate with your clients. Start by finishing these statements: I believe my clients deserve… I believe my clients should experience… When speaking about me, someone said... To create consistent messaging, refer to this file when writing your social media, creating a new web page, or preparing to speak on a panel. Read your reviews to get ideas and reflect the language your clients use. LuAnn and Deb cover the services that Deb offers. Connect with Deb! Deb’s Email Deb’s Website - Schedule a Free Consultation Today! Deb’s Instagram Deb’s Facebook Deb’s Pinterest Websites Mentioned: Blakely Interiordesign Victoria At Home Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link to #174 Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #125 Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business #544 Natalie Norcross: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR #364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn shares a conversation with Deb Mitchell on today’s show. You may know Deb on Instagram as DesignWriterDeb. She’s a writer specializing in serving interior designers. Did you know that your own writing style can differentiate yourself from other designers in the way it reflects your personality and your style? And that the most impactful way of writing speaks to the client? Listen in for tips on how you can make this happen, or how you can work with Deb if you’re needing a little extra help in communicating effectively with your ideal client.

Deb Mitchell’s career as a professional writer began when she responded to an ad in a local Charlotte, NC magazine seeking volunteers for a readers’ panel. On a tour of the magazine’s offices with the other selected panelists, the idea for an article came to her and when she mentioned it to the editors, they hired her on the spot as a writer. Nearly ten years and hundreds of articles later, Deb decided to blend her design feature writing experience with her pre-writing career experience in high-end retail sales to help interior designers move their businesses forward with strategic copywriting and content marketing services.

Today, Deb’s client list is ever growing with designers at nearly every stage of business. Most recently, she’s joined forces with two experts, a branding designer and a website developer, to offer designers an all-in-one option for fully custom designed and copywritten WordPress websites.

Deb has by-lined articles in publications such as Casual Living, Design Texas, Lake Norman Magazine, and Today’s Charlotte Woman, and on The Renegade Writer blog. Her ghostwriting has appeared in dozens of top shelter publications and design blogs.

Show Highlights:

  • Start the writing process with getting to know your clients. What do

they care about?

  • When writing, differentiate yourself by considering how you are

different from your colleague in aesthetic, processes, delivery of

services, and personality.

  • Make your writing reflective of you. Don’t write a bio that’s so vanilla

we can substitute another designer’s name for yours.

  • Don’t be intimidated about writing. Get your ideas out of your head

and get someone to take a look at your copy and help with editing.

  • Create a “messaging” folder - it’s a living document used to hold your

core words, thoughts, and phrases. Add to it as you come up with copy that helps

define you and will resonate with your clients. Start by finishing these

statements:

  • I believe my clients deserve…
  • I believe my clients should experience…
  • When speaking about me, someone said...
  • To create consistent messaging, refer to this file when writing your

social media, creating a new web page, or preparing to speak on a

panel.

  • Read your reviews to get ideas and reflect the language your clients

use.

  • LuAnn and Deb cover the services that Deb offers.

Connect with Deb!

Deb’s Email

Deb’s Website - Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

Deb’s Instagram

Deb’s Facebook

Deb’s Pinterest

Websites Mentioned:

Blakely Interiordesign

Victoria At Home

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned to link to

#174 Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours

#125 Nicole Heymer: How to Brand Your Business

#544 Natalie Norcross: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR

#364 Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm

 

]]> 4215 no 573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/573-cheryl-luckett-blm-see-something-say-something Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s friend and previous guest, Cheryl Luckett, joins the show today for the next episode in the Black Lives Matter Series. Cheryl shares her experience in growing up in the deep south, her recollection of her first experience with racism, and the thoughts that went through her mind in that horrifying moment. You’ll also hear her explain how lack of inclusion and lack of resources in our own industry are racism hurdles. LuAnn and Cheryl cover many ways that you can do your part in creating inclusion and progress in our industry. Every action by each one of us matters! With a 15-year career in Corporate America as a Registered Dietitian and Human Resources professional, Cheryl launched Dwell by Cheryl Interiors in 2012 seeking a creative outlet and an opportunity to explore her passion for design. The venture began with her blog chronicling her own home improvement projects and quickly morphed into a “side-hustle” decorating homes. After five years and a carefully executed strategic plan designed to help make the transition easier, she made the decision to leave corporate life behind. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cheryl, and her team provide clients with a professional and seamless design experience creating homes that are classic, colorful, cultured, and cozy that allow their clients to live their fullest lives.  In 2018, she launched her first licensed collection of upholstered furniture with NC-based Sylvester Alexander called Belle by Cheryl Luckett. Her work has been published both locally and nationally appearing in Traditional Home, Country Living, and Southern Home.   Show Highlights: Conversations regarding racism not only need to happen, they need to be sustained. Cheryl shares her first recollection of racism. Cheryl defines the concept of “shifting”. A career move away from corporate and human resources led to an epiphany regarding inclusion and diversity years later. The racism hurdles in the design industry as seen through Cheryl’s eyes. Diversity training should be a part of your business strategy. Visibility should not be mistaken for change. Cheryl and LuAnn offer suggestions for making change, starting with: Speak up! LuAnn addresses “white privilege”. Racism is a deep, collective wound. Connect with Cheryl! (@dwellbycheryl on all platforms!) Cheryl’s Email Cheryl’s Facebook Cheryl’s Instagram Cheryl’s Twitter Cheryl’s Pinterest See Cheryl’s “Belle by Cheryl Luckett” Collection at: Sylvester Alexander Read about Mitchell Parson, the owner of Sylvester Alexander: Sylvester Alexander Cheryl Recommends: Black Interior Designers Network Black Lives Matter Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) So you want to talk about race White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism Shifting: The Double Lives of Black Women in America 13th (Netflix) Links : Article: Dear White People, Here Are 10 Actions You Can Take to Promote Racial Justice in the Workplace Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? Luann Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned:  #291, #397 Cheryl’s previous shows #562 Rasheeda Gray Kae Whitaker: #556  Corey Damen Jenkins #388   Thu, 06 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something full 573 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s friend and previous guest, Cheryl Luckett, joins the show today for the next episode in the Black Lives Matter Series. Cheryl shares her experience in growing up in the deep south, her recollection of her... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s friend and previous guest, Cheryl Luckett, joins the show today for the next episode in the Black Lives Matter Series. Cheryl shares her experience in growing up in the deep south, her recollection of her first experience with racism, and the thoughts that went through her mind in that horrifying moment. You’ll also hear her explain how lack of inclusion and lack of resources in our own industry are racism hurdles. LuAnn and Cheryl cover many ways that you can do your part in creating inclusion and progress in our industry. Every action by each one of us matters! With a 15-year career in Corporate America as a Registered Dietitian and Human Resources professional, Cheryl launched Dwell by Cheryl Interiors in 2012 seeking a creative outlet and an opportunity to explore her passion for design. The venture began with her blog chronicling her own home improvement projects and quickly morphed into a “side-hustle” decorating homes. After five years and a carefully executed strategic plan designed to help make the transition easier, she made the decision to leave corporate life behind. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cheryl, and her team provide clients with a professional and seamless design experience creating homes that are classic, colorful, cultured, and cozy that allow their clients to live their fullest lives.  In 2018, she launched her first licensed collection of upholstered furniture with NC-based Sylvester Alexander called Belle by Cheryl Luckett. Her work has been published both locally and nationally appearing in Traditional Home, Country Living, and Southern Home.   Show Highlights: Conversations regarding racism not only need to happen, they need to be sustained. Cheryl shares her first recollection of racism. Cheryl defines the concept of “shifting”. A career move away from corporate and human resources led to an epiphany regarding inclusion and diversity years later. The racism hurdles in the design industry as seen through Cheryl’s eyes. Diversity training should be a part of your business strategy. Visibility should not be mistaken for change. Cheryl and LuAnn offer suggestions for making change, starting with: Speak up! LuAnn addresses “white privilege”. Racism is a deep, collective wound. Connect with Cheryl! (@dwellbycheryl on all platforms!) Cheryl’s Email Cheryl’s Facebook Cheryl’s Instagram Cheryl’s Twitter Cheryl’s Pinterest See Cheryl’s “Belle by Cheryl Luckett” Collection at: Sylvester Alexander Read about Mitchell Parson, the owner of Sylvester Alexander: Sylvester Alexander Cheryl Recommends: Black Interior Designers Network Black Lives Matter Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) So you want to talk about race White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism Shifting: The Double Lives of Black Women in America 13th (Netflix) Links : Article: Dear White People, Here Are 10 Actions You Can Take to Promote Racial Justice in the Workplace Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? Luann Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned:  #291, #397 Cheryl’s previous shows #562 Rasheeda Gray Kae Whitaker: #556  Corey Damen Jenkins #388   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s friend and previous guest, Cheryl Luckett, joins the show today for the next episode in the Black Lives Matter Series. Cheryl shares her experience in growing up in the deep south, her recollection of her first experience with racism, and the thoughts that went through her mind in that horrifying moment. You’ll also hear her explain how lack of inclusion and lack of resources in our own industry are racism hurdles. LuAnn and Cheryl cover many ways that you can do your part in creating inclusion and progress in our industry. Every action by each one of us matters!

With a 15-year career in Corporate America as a Registered Dietitian and Human Resources professional, Cheryl launched Dwell by Cheryl Interiors in 2012 seeking a creative outlet and an opportunity to explore her passion for design. The venture began with her blog chronicling her own home improvement projects and quickly morphed into a “side-hustle” decorating homes. After five years and a carefully executed strategic plan designed to help make the transition easier, she made the decision to leave corporate life behind. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cheryl, and her team provide clients with a professional and seamless design experience creating homes that are classic, colorful, cultured, and cozy that allow their clients to live their fullest lives. 

In 2018, she launched her first licensed collection of upholstered furniture with NC-based Sylvester Alexander called Belle by Cheryl Luckett. Her work has been published both locally and nationally appearing in Traditional Home, Country Living, and Southern Home.  

Show Highlights:

  • Conversations regarding racism not only need to happen, they need to be sustained.
  • Cheryl shares her first recollection of racism.
  • Cheryl defines the concept of “shifting”.
  • A career move away from corporate and human resources led to an epiphany regarding inclusion and diversity years later.
  • The racism hurdles in the design industry as seen through Cheryl’s eyes.
  • Diversity training should be a part of your business strategy.
  • Visibility should not be mistaken for change.
  • Cheryl and LuAnn offer suggestions for making change, starting with: Speak up!
  • LuAnn addresses “white privilege”.
  • Racism is a deep, collective wound.

Connect with Cheryl!

(@dwellbycheryl on all platforms!)

Cheryl’s Email

Cheryl’s Facebook

Cheryl’s Instagram

Cheryl’s Twitter

Cheryl’s Pinterest

See Cheryl’s “Belle by Cheryl Luckett” Collection at: Sylvester Alexander

Read about Mitchell Parson, the owner of Sylvester Alexander:

Sylvester Alexander

Cheryl Recommends:

Links :

Article: Dear White People, Here Are 10 Actions You Can Take to Promote Racial Justice in the Workplace

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

Luann Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned: 

#291, #397 Cheryl’s previous shows

#562 Rasheeda Gray

Kae Whitaker: #556 

Corey Damen Jenkins #388

 

]]> 4074 no 572: Cynthia Collins: From Interns to Employees: How Mentorship Adds Value to Your Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/572-cynthia-collins-from-interns-to-employees-how-mentorship-adds-value-to-your-firm Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Cynthia Collins joins LuAnn in today’s episode for a discussion on mentorship. Cynthia is going to walk us through how she finds the best young talent available and how she helps them grow and learn, often producing long-lasting employees that fit in at her firm for many years to come. Cynthia is a true servant at heart, with a mission to help and guide others whenever and wherever possible, leaving a positive impact on the world. Listen in for ideas to make your company culture rewarding and uplifting, and how you can recruit young people that will grow with you into the future! In 1992, Cynthia Collins began Collins Interiors, a Dallas-based firm specializing in full-scale residential interior design. Throughout the years, Cynthia has been privileged to work with some of the most talented architects in the field and has been a part of projects across the United States, including Texas, North Carolina, Utah, Colorado, Florida, Georgia & California. Each detail is meticulously planned with the client in mind and chosen for its functionality, meaning, and beauty.   She lives in Dallas with her husband, Bruce Collins, and has three grown boys. She is a believer. Her neighbors are her family. She is a teacher and a mentor, an avid reader, a fantastic fisher woman, a brilliant story teller, a music enthusiast (in a BIG way!), a movie fanatic, a speedy biker, a creative chef and generous beyond measure. She has a true servant's heart in EVERYTHING she does and wants the very best experience for her team, clients, family, and friends. Show Highlights: Cynthia explains the structure of her firm and the various positions therein. The newer employees are taught by the senior designers how to budget, how to problem-solve, and all of the other intricacies of being a lead designer. Cynthia discusses what she looks for in interns and employees. Culture is key: People should be able to enjoy walking into the office everyday without worrying about the drama prevalent in many of today’s places of work. Interior Designers are visual people, and first impressions and ongoing image are an important part of a designer’s reputation. Interns and job seekers should “do their homework” on a company before applying for a position. Cynthia relates some lessons that she learned from another interior design firm before she went into business for herself. LuAnn and Cynthia discuss how Cynthia runs her projects’ systems and processes. Diversification and planning for the future are critical in every business. Connect with Cynthia! Collins Interiors @collins__interiors (two underscores) Blue Print Store @blue_print_store Links : Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?  Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Chad James #68  Eileen Hahn #363    Tue, 04 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Cynthia Collins: From Interns to Employees: How Mentorship Adds Value to Your Firm full 572 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Cynthia Collins joins LuAnn in today’s episode for a discussion on mentorship. Cynthia is going to walk us through how she finds the best young talent available and how she helps them grow and learn, often... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Cynthia Collins joins LuAnn in today’s episode for a discussion on mentorship. Cynthia is going to walk us through how she finds the best young talent available and how she helps them grow and learn, often producing long-lasting employees that fit in at her firm for many years to come. Cynthia is a true servant at heart, with a mission to help and guide others whenever and wherever possible, leaving a positive impact on the world. Listen in for ideas to make your company culture rewarding and uplifting, and how you can recruit young people that will grow with you into the future! In 1992, Cynthia Collins began Collins Interiors, a Dallas-based firm specializing in full-scale residential interior design. Throughout the years, Cynthia has been privileged to work with some of the most talented architects in the field and has been a part of projects across the United States, including Texas, North Carolina, Utah, Colorado, Florida, Georgia & California. Each detail is meticulously planned with the client in mind and chosen for its functionality, meaning, and beauty.   She lives in Dallas with her husband, Bruce Collins, and has three grown boys. She is a believer. Her neighbors are her family. She is a teacher and a mentor, an avid reader, a fantastic fisher woman, a brilliant story teller, a music enthusiast (in a BIG way!), a movie fanatic, a speedy biker, a creative chef and generous beyond measure. She has a true servant's heart in EVERYTHING she does and wants the very best experience for her team, clients, family, and friends. Show Highlights: Cynthia explains the structure of her firm and the various positions therein. The newer employees are taught by the senior designers how to budget, how to problem-solve, and all of the other intricacies of being a lead designer. Cynthia discusses what she looks for in interns and employees. Culture is key: People should be able to enjoy walking into the office everyday without worrying about the drama prevalent in many of today’s places of work. Interior Designers are visual people, and first impressions and ongoing image are an important part of a designer’s reputation. Interns and job seekers should “do their homework” on a company before applying for a position. Cynthia relates some lessons that she learned from another interior design firm before she went into business for herself. LuAnn and Cynthia discuss how Cynthia runs her projects’ systems and processes. Diversification and planning for the future are critical in every business. Connect with Cynthia! Collins Interiors @collins__interiors (two underscores) Blue Print Store @blue_print_store Links : Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business LuAnn’s Favorite Resources Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?  Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Chad James #68  Eileen Hahn #363    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Cynthia Collins joins LuAnn in today’s episode for a discussion on mentorship. Cynthia is going to walk us through how she finds the best young talent available and how she helps them grow and learn, often producing long-lasting employees that fit in at her firm for many years to come. Cynthia is a true servant at heart, with a mission to help and guide others whenever and wherever possible, leaving a positive impact on the world. Listen in for ideas to make your company culture rewarding and uplifting, and how you can recruit young people that will grow with you into the future!

In 1992, Cynthia Collins began Collins Interiors, a Dallas-based firm specializing in full-scale residential interior design. Throughout the years, Cynthia has been privileged to work with some of the most talented architects in the field and has been a part of projects across the United States, including Texas, North Carolina, Utah, Colorado, Florida, Georgia & California. Each detail is meticulously planned with the client in mind and chosen for its functionality, meaning, and beauty.  

She lives in Dallas with her husband, Bruce Collins, and has three grown boys. She is a believer. Her neighbors are her family. She is a teacher and a mentor, an avid reader, a fantastic fisher woman, a brilliant story teller, a music enthusiast (in a BIG way!), a movie fanatic, a speedy biker, a creative chef and generous beyond measure. She has a true servant's heart in EVERYTHING she does and wants the very best experience for her team, clients, family, and friends.

Show Highlights:

  • Cynthia explains the structure of her firm and the various positions therein.
  • The newer employees are taught by the senior designers how to budget, how to problem-solve, and all of the other intricacies of being a lead designer.
  • Cynthia discusses what she looks for in interns and employees.
  • Culture is key: People should be able to enjoy walking into the office everyday without worrying about the drama prevalent in many of today’s places of work.
  • Interior Designers are visual people, and first impressions and ongoing image are an important part of a designer’s reputation.
  • Interns and job seekers should “do their homework” on a company before applying for a position.
  • Cynthia relates some lessons that she learned from another interior design firm before she went into business for herself.
  • LuAnn and Cynthia discuss how Cynthia runs her projects’ systems and processes.
  • Diversification and planning for the future are critical in every business.

Connect with Cynthia!

Collins Interiors

@collins__interiors (two underscores)

Blue Print Store

@blue_print_store

Links :

Courses and Products to Dive Deep into Specific Elements of Your Business

LuAnn’s Favorite Resources

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? 

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Chad James #68 

Eileen Hahn #363 

 

]]> 3944 no 571: Power Talk Friday: Amanda Berlin: 3 Pillars of Visibility http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/571-power-talk-friday-amanda-berlin-3-pillars-of-visibility Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Amanda Berlin joins LuAnn on today’s episode to chat about a holistic visibility strategy. If you’ve been considering defining or refining your vision and fresh ways to reach your goals, you’ll want to listen in for Amanda’s tips! Amanda is one of the co-authors in the next volume of The Power Talk Friday Experts. Amanda Berlin is a Communications Consultant for Entrepreneurs. After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media. Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings and works one on one with clients to guide them to strategic story-telling and media relations based on her 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world. Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skill-set they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert. Amanda has spoken on the topics of visibility, publicity, and entrepreneurship at BizChix Live, Style Collective Raleigh and New York City, Body Local, Hoboken Entrepreneur Group, and more. Show Highlights: Amanda details her philosophy on the 3 Pillars of Visibility: Collaborations and alliances Speaking and events Media Differing amounts of each one of these tactics are necessary to achieve different goals. It’s important to remember that the relationships that you build through collaborations are going to serve the business over time. Who is teaching the thing that you wished people knew before they got to you? Zoom is a great way to make a presentation that may feel less risky than an in-person event right now. Having your projects featured in major publications is great for exposure, validation, and street cred when someone visits your website, but your clients are going to hear about you through someone else the majority of the time. PR is not science; it’s mostly art! Use your expert knowledge when talking across different social media platforms, tailoring the events so that they are relevant to each audience.  Re-use them as needed. These pillars of visibility are things that you have to focus on in your business. You have to constantly be widening your sphere, widening the network that you’re associated with, introducing yourself to new audiences, and being a person of service in providing something of value. Connect with Amanda! Amanda’s Email  Listen and Subscribe to the Empowered Publicity Podcast Join Amanda for On-Air Coaching. Click here to apply. Amanda Berlin Find Amanda on Facebook Follow Amanda on Twitter Amanda is launching PITCH School, the course: Learn how to be seen, heard, fully expressed, recognized, appreciated, and contracted (i.e. PAID!!) for your unique genius.  PITCH School will teach you how to secure coverage for yourself and your business and convert those listeners and readers into fans, followers, and clients.   PLUS: Right now, buy the course, fill out her assessment and get a personalized video from Amanda on your EXACT ENTRY POINT for this work so you use the course in a way that WILL WORK for your business.  You have been working hard to grow your voice and work in the world, now let Amanda help you explode into your industry and become the sought-after expert you know you can be. More Info: PITCH School Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466 Darla Powell 203, 330 Carolyn Flannery 453 Amanda Berlin 420   Fri, 31 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amanda Berlin: 3 Pillars of Visibility full 571 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Amanda Berlin joins LuAnn on today’s episode to chat about a holistic visibility strategy. If you’ve been considering defining or refining your vision and fresh ways to reach your... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Amanda Berlin joins LuAnn on today’s episode to chat about a holistic visibility strategy. If you’ve been considering defining or refining your vision and fresh ways to reach your goals, you’ll want to listen in for Amanda’s tips! Amanda is one of the co-authors in the next volume of The Power Talk Friday Experts. Amanda Berlin is a Communications Consultant for Entrepreneurs. After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media. Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings and works one on one with clients to guide them to strategic story-telling and media relations based on her 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world. Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skill-set they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert. Amanda has spoken on the topics of visibility, publicity, and entrepreneurship at BizChix Live, Style Collective Raleigh and New York City, Body Local, Hoboken Entrepreneur Group, and more. Show Highlights: Amanda details her philosophy on the 3 Pillars of Visibility: Collaborations and alliances Speaking and events Media Differing amounts of each one of these tactics are necessary to achieve different goals. It’s important to remember that the relationships that you build through collaborations are going to serve the business over time. Who is teaching the thing that you wished people knew before they got to you? Zoom is a great way to make a presentation that may feel less risky than an in-person event right now. Having your projects featured in major publications is great for exposure, validation, and street cred when someone visits your website, but your clients are going to hear about you through someone else the majority of the time. PR is not science; it’s mostly art! Use your expert knowledge when talking across different social media platforms, tailoring the events so that they are relevant to each audience.  Re-use them as needed. These pillars of visibility are things that you have to focus on in your business. You have to constantly be widening your sphere, widening the network that you’re associated with, introducing yourself to new audiences, and being a person of service in providing something of value. Connect with Amanda! Amanda’s Email  Listen and Subscribe to the Empowered Publicity Podcast Join Amanda for On-Air Coaching. Click here to apply. Amanda Berlin Find Amanda on Facebook Follow Amanda on Twitter Amanda is launching PITCH School, the course: Learn how to be seen, heard, fully expressed, recognized, appreciated, and contracted (i.e. PAID!!) for your unique genius.  PITCH School will teach you how to secure coverage for yourself and your business and convert those listeners and readers into fans, followers, and clients.   PLUS: Right now, buy the course, fill out her assessment and get a personalized video from Amanda on your EXACT ENTRY POINT for this work so you use the course in a way that WILL WORK for your business.  You have been working hard to grow your voice and work in the world, now let Amanda help you explode into your industry and become the sought-after expert you know you can be. More Info: PITCH School Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466 Darla Powell 203, 330 Carolyn Flannery 453 Amanda Berlin 420   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Amanda Berlin joins LuAnn on today’s episode to chat about a holistic visibility strategy. If you’ve been considering defining or refining your vision and fresh ways to reach your goals, you’ll want to listen in for Amanda’s tips! Amanda is one of the co-authors in the next volume of The Power Talk Friday Experts.

Amanda Berlin is a Communications Consultant for Entrepreneurs. After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media. Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings and works one on one with clients to guide them to strategic story-telling and media relations based on her 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world. Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skill-set they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert. Amanda has spoken on the topics of visibility, publicity, and entrepreneurship at BizChix Live, Style Collective Raleigh and New York City, Body Local, Hoboken Entrepreneur Group, and more.

Show Highlights:

  • Amanda details her philosophy on the 3 Pillars of Visibility:
  1. Collaborations and alliances
  2. Speaking and events
  3. Media
  • Differing amounts of each one of these tactics are necessary to achieve different goals.
  • It’s important to remember that the relationships that you build through collaborations are going to serve the business over time.
  • Who is teaching the thing that you wished people knew before they got to you?
  • Zoom is a great way to make a presentation that may feel less risky than an in-person event right now.
  • Having your projects featured in major publications is great for exposure, validation, and street cred when someone visits your website, but your clients are going to hear about you through someone else the majority of the time.
  • PR is not science; it’s mostly art!
  • Use your expert knowledge when talking across different social media platforms, tailoring the events so that they are relevant to each audience.  Re-use them as needed.
  • These pillars of visibility are things that you have to focus on in your business.
  • You have to constantly be widening your sphere, widening the network that you’re associated with, introducing yourself to new audiences, and being a person of service in providing something of value.

Connect with Amanda!

Amanda’s Email 

Listen and Subscribe to the Empowered Publicity Podcast

Join Amanda for On-Air Coaching. Click here to apply.

Amanda Berlin

Find Amanda on Facebook

Follow Amanda on Twitter

Amanda is launching PITCH School, the course: Learn how to be seen, heard, fully expressed, recognized, appreciated, and contracted (i.e. PAID!!) for your unique genius. 

PITCH School will teach you how to secure coverage for yourself and your business and convert those listeners and readers into fans, followers, and clients.  

PLUS: Right now, buy the course, fill out her assessment and get a personalized video from Amanda on your EXACT ENTRY POINT for this work so you use the course in a way that WILL WORK for your business. 

You have been working hard to grow your voice and work in the world, now let Amanda help you explode into your industry and become the sought-after expert you know you can be.

More Info: PITCH School

Links :

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466

Darla Powell 203, 330

Carolyn Flannery 453

Amanda Berlin 420

 

]]> 3813 no 570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/570-natasa-jones-how-to-maximize-the-roi-on-any-webinar-course-or-conference Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes her friend, Natasa Jones to the show to share her super-smart, super-efficient strategy for note taking. Natasa’s method will work whether you are attending a webinar, a panel discussion, a course, or a conference. If you need to brush up on your note-taking skills, you don’t want to miss out on this valuable information! You’ll also hear about some of the epiphanies that Natasa experienced at LuAnn Live last year, and there are some that are sure to be meaningful to you, as well. Natasa Jones is the owner and principal interior designer of Natasa Jones Interiors, located in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Natasa studied interior design in Chicago and her goal was always to run her own firm. Being born and raised in Montenegro, Natasa loves incorporating European contemporary elements into her interior design projects to create her signature livable modern look. Show Highlights: LuAnn shares Natasa’s take-away moments from LuAnn Live last year. When you’re at any type of learning event, ensure that you take notes in such a way that following through with any action is easy. Natasa details the 5 tabs you need for efficient note-taking: To do now To do later To buy or download Mindset Follow up Natasa relates her idea for a gift that realtors can give to their high-end clients: a free design consultation with Natasa. There are some benefits to charging a flat-fee rate per room. Natasa sings the praises of Mydoma Studio and discusses how it has helped her to streamline her processes. How to present your true self to your client. Own what you are capable of delivering. Connect with Natasa! Natasa’s Email Natasa’s Website Instagram Instagram Natasa’s Facebook Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned for shownotes. Sara Brennan 463, 514, 524 Kelsey Grose 167 Taylor Spellman 106, 467 Candy Scott 409, 279 Rachel Cannon 306, 409 Melissa Lindsey 517 Sandra Funk 02, 145, 520 Stacy Tuschl 87 Corey Damen Jenkins 127, 388, 549 Peter Lang 349, 464 Wendy Wolshchuk 316, 527 Kae Whitaker 26, 66, 114, 259, 274, 556 Claire Jefford 237, 325, 485 Sarah Daniele 91, 177, 555 Kesha Franklin 370   Tue, 28 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference full 570 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes her friend, Natasa Jones to the show to share her super-smart, super-efficient strategy for note taking. Natasa’s method will work whether you are attending a webinar, a panel discussion, a course,... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes her friend, Natasa Jones to the show to share her super-smart, super-efficient strategy for note taking. Natasa’s method will work whether you are attending a webinar, a panel discussion, a course, or a conference. If you need to brush up on your note-taking skills, you don’t want to miss out on this valuable information! You’ll also hear about some of the epiphanies that Natasa experienced at LuAnn Live last year, and there are some that are sure to be meaningful to you, as well. Natasa Jones is the owner and principal interior designer of Natasa Jones Interiors, located in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Natasa studied interior design in Chicago and her goal was always to run her own firm. Being born and raised in Montenegro, Natasa loves incorporating European contemporary elements into her interior design projects to create her signature livable modern look. Show Highlights: LuAnn shares Natasa’s take-away moments from LuAnn Live last year. When you’re at any type of learning event, ensure that you take notes in such a way that following through with any action is easy. Natasa details the 5 tabs you need for efficient note-taking: To do now To do later To buy or download Mindset Follow up Natasa relates her idea for a gift that realtors can give to their high-end clients: a free design consultation with Natasa. There are some benefits to charging a flat-fee rate per room. Natasa sings the praises of Mydoma Studio and discusses how it has helped her to streamline her processes. How to present your true self to your client. Own what you are capable of delivering. Connect with Natasa! Natasa’s Email Natasa’s Website Instagram Instagram Natasa’s Facebook Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Interior Design Standard is Back! Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry! Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned for shownotes. Sara Brennan 463, 514, 524 Kelsey Grose 167 Taylor Spellman 106, 467 Candy Scott 409, 279 Rachel Cannon 306, 409 Melissa Lindsey 517 Sandra Funk 02, 145, 520 Stacy Tuschl 87 Corey Damen Jenkins 127, 388, 549 Peter Lang 349, 464 Wendy Wolshchuk 316, 527 Kae Whitaker 26, 66, 114, 259, 274, 556 Claire Jefford 237, 325, 485 Sarah Daniele 91, 177, 555 Kesha Franklin 370   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes her friend, Natasa Jones to the show to share her super-smart, super-efficient strategy for note taking. Natasa’s method will work whether you are attending a webinar, a panel discussion, a course, or a conference. If you need to brush up on your note-taking skills, you don’t want to miss out on this valuable information! You’ll also hear about some of the epiphanies that Natasa experienced at LuAnn Live last year, and there are some that are sure to be meaningful to you, as well.

Natasa Jones is the owner and principal interior designer of Natasa Jones Interiors, located in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Natasa studied interior design in Chicago and her goal was always to run her own firm. Being born and raised in Montenegro, Natasa loves incorporating European contemporary elements into her interior design projects to create her signature livable modern look.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares Natasa’s take-away moments from LuAnn Live last year.
  • When you’re at any type of learning event, ensure that you take notes in such a way that following through with any action is easy.
  • Natasa details the 5 tabs you need for efficient note-taking:
  1. To do now
  2. To do later
  3. To buy or download
  4. Mindset
  5. Follow up
  • Natasa relates her idea for a gift that realtors can give to their high-end clients: a free design consultation with Natasa.
  • There are some benefits to charging a flat-fee rate per room.
  • Natasa sings the praises of Mydoma Studio and discusses how it has helped her to streamline her processes.
  • How to present your true self to your client.
  • Own what you are capable of delivering.

Connect with Natasa!

Natasa’s Email

Natasa’s Website

Instagram Instagram

Natasa’s Facebook

Links :

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned for shownotes.

Sara Brennan 463, 514, 524

Kelsey Grose 167

Taylor Spellman 106, 467

Candy Scott 409, 279

Rachel Cannon 306, 409

Melissa Lindsey 517

Sandra Funk 02, 145, 520

Stacy Tuschl 87

Corey Damen Jenkins 127, 388, 549

Peter Lang 349, 464

Wendy Wolshchuk 316, 527

Kae Whitaker 26, 66, 114, 259, 274, 556

Claire Jefford 237, 325, 485

Sarah Daniele 91, 177, 555

Kesha Franklin 370

 

]]> 3627 no 569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/569-ptf-mike-peterson-leveraging-designs-influence-on-health-wellness-to-increase-your-value-proposition Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is joined today by Mike Peterson, an experienced marketing and brand consultant who wants to emphasize an opportunity that our community of interior designers seems to be completely missing out on, and that’s the power they hold to improve the health of their clients through health and wellness design. Yes, you heard that right! Mike is here to explain why this is no longer anecdotal. Mike Peterson is founder of the innovative marketing and brand firm, Visionary Design Marketing.  Visionary Design Marketing's goal is to help companies create tailored, strategic, and effective communications that are founded in a clear understanding of their brand. Brand development is rooted in a customers understanding of a designer's brand and includes new website, social media communications tools, and the new targeted digital tools such as geofencing, microproximity targeting, and display contextual search. Visionary Design Marketing is currently leading a developing education in our industry... that interior designers provide much more than aesthetics..they improve the health of their clients! Mike Peterson’s experience is rooted in years as a leading advertising executive and Publisher at Hearst Magazines, including House Beautiful and Country Living, working with leading national advertisers. Mike’s experience in the home furnishings industry includes President/CEO of LaBarge Furnishings and as Vice President of Corporate Marketing for such companies as Henredon, Lexington, Drexel Heritage, and more. Prior to Visionary Design Marketing, Mike  spent 8 years as Publisher of Luxe Magazine. In this role, Mike guided LUXE Magazine into a market leader and served the design industry by helping interior designers, design centers, and luxury design firms better grow marketing strategies for their businesses. Show Highlights: Designers do not get credit for improving both the physical and mental health of their clients. Mike wants to teach designers how to take credit for this “Design Harmony” that is not just a concept, but is now proven by studies the world over. Designers should start including the health benefits of design into their marketing. This will also allow them to increase their hourly rate and overall revenue. Mike explains the physiological changes that take place when we’re pleased with our surroundings. Mike provides designers with the information they need to build a better business using brand differentiation. Terminology that you need to know: environmental psychology, sensory design, chromotherapy, neuroaesthetics, shinrun-yoku, and biophilic design. Mike offers a CEU class on Design Harmony. There is also a section on how to begin marketing yourself as a health and wellness-based design firm. Once designers have a conviction of their real value proposition, they can then start marketing themselves with confidence using all of the correct terminology. Connect with Mike! Mike’s Email  Mike’s Website Mike’s Instagram Free PDF: Finding Your Brand Personality Design Harmony – A Look at Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness Interior Designers Embracing Wellness – Focused Design Opportunties Sign up for CEU Class via Zoom August 13, 2020, only $40.00 per person! Design Harmony: Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness Book Mentioned: Beauty, Neuroscience, and Architecture: Timeless Patterns and Their Impact on Our Well-Being by Donald H. Ruggles Nature by Design: The Practice of Biophilic Design by Stephen Kellert Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Other shows mentioned for shownotes: Cheryl Janis #41 #82,  #212, #218, #224 Laurance Carr #484    Fri, 24 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition full 569 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is joined today by Mike Peterson, an experienced marketing and brand consultant who wants to emphasize an opportunity that our community of interior designers seems to be completely... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is joined today by Mike Peterson, an experienced marketing and brand consultant who wants to emphasize an opportunity that our community of interior designers seems to be completely missing out on, and that’s the power they hold to improve the health of their clients through health and wellness design. Yes, you heard that right! Mike is here to explain why this is no longer anecdotal. Mike Peterson is founder of the innovative marketing and brand firm, Visionary Design Marketing.  Visionary Design Marketing's goal is to help companies create tailored, strategic, and effective communications that are founded in a clear understanding of their brand. Brand development is rooted in a customers understanding of a designer's brand and includes new website, social media communications tools, and the new targeted digital tools such as geofencing, microproximity targeting, and display contextual search. Visionary Design Marketing is currently leading a developing education in our industry... that interior designers provide much more than aesthetics..they improve the health of their clients! Mike Peterson’s experience is rooted in years as a leading advertising executive and Publisher at Hearst Magazines, including House Beautiful and Country Living, working with leading national advertisers. Mike’s experience in the home furnishings industry includes President/CEO of LaBarge Furnishings and as Vice President of Corporate Marketing for such companies as Henredon, Lexington, Drexel Heritage, and more. Prior to Visionary Design Marketing, Mike  spent 8 years as Publisher of Luxe Magazine. In this role, Mike guided LUXE Magazine into a market leader and served the design industry by helping interior designers, design centers, and luxury design firms better grow marketing strategies for their businesses. Show Highlights: Designers do not get credit for improving both the physical and mental health of their clients. Mike wants to teach designers how to take credit for this “Design Harmony” that is not just a concept, but is now proven by studies the world over. Designers should start including the health benefits of design into their marketing. This will also allow them to increase their hourly rate and overall revenue. Mike explains the physiological changes that take place when we’re pleased with our surroundings. Mike provides designers with the information they need to build a better business using brand differentiation. Terminology that you need to know: environmental psychology, sensory design, chromotherapy, neuroaesthetics, shinrun-yoku, and biophilic design. Mike offers a CEU class on Design Harmony. There is also a section on how to begin marketing yourself as a health and wellness-based design firm. Once designers have a conviction of their real value proposition, they can then start marketing themselves with confidence using all of the correct terminology. Connect with Mike! Mike’s Email  Mike’s Website Mike’s Instagram Free PDF: Finding Your Brand Personality Design Harmony – A Look at Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness Interior Designers Embracing Wellness – Focused Design Opportunties Sign up for CEU Class via Zoom August 13, 2020, only $40.00 per person! Design Harmony: Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness Book Mentioned: Beauty, Neuroscience, and Architecture: Timeless Patterns and Their Impact on Our Well-Being by Donald H. Ruggles Nature by Design: The Practice of Biophilic Design by Stephen Kellert Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Other shows mentioned for shownotes: Cheryl Janis #41 #82,  #212, #218, #224 Laurance Carr #484    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is joined today by Mike Peterson, an experienced marketing and brand consultant who wants to emphasize an opportunity that our community of interior designers seems to be completely missing out on, and that’s the power they hold to improve the health of their clients through health and wellness design. Yes, you heard that right! Mike is here to explain why this is no longer anecdotal.

Mike Peterson is founder of the innovative marketing and brand firm, Visionary Design Marketing.  Visionary Design Marketing's goal is to help companies create tailored, strategic, and effective communications that are founded in a clear understanding of their brand. Brand development is rooted in a customers understanding of a designer's brand and includes new website, social media communications tools, and the new targeted digital tools such as geofencing, microproximity targeting, and display contextual search.

Visionary Design Marketing is currently leading a developing education in our industry... that interior designers provide much more than aesthetics..they improve the health of their clients!

Mike Peterson’s experience is rooted in years as a leading advertising executive and Publisher at Hearst Magazines, including House Beautiful and Country Living, working with leading national advertisers. Mike’s experience in the home furnishings industry includes President/CEO of LaBarge Furnishings and as Vice President of Corporate Marketing for such companies as Henredon, Lexington, Drexel Heritage, and more. Prior to Visionary Design Marketing, Mike  spent 8 years as Publisher of Luxe Magazine. In this role, Mike guided LUXE Magazine into a market leader and served the design industry by helping interior designers, design centers, and luxury design firms better grow marketing strategies for their businesses.

Show Highlights:

  • Designers do not get credit for improving both the physical and mental health of their clients.
  • Mike wants to teach designers how to take credit for this “Design Harmony” that is not just a concept, but is now proven by studies the world over.
  • Designers should start including the health benefits of design into their marketing. This will also allow them to increase their hourly rate and overall revenue.
  • Mike explains the physiological changes that take place when we’re pleased with our surroundings.
  • Mike provides designers with the information they need to build a better business using brand differentiation.
  • Terminology that you need to know: environmental psychology, sensory design, chromotherapy, neuroaesthetics, shinrun-yoku, and biophilic design.
  • Mike offers a CEU class on Design Harmony. There is also a section on how to begin marketing yourself as a health and wellness-based design firm.
  • Once designers have a conviction of their real value proposition, they can then start marketing themselves with confidence using all of the correct terminology.

Connect with Mike!

Mike’s Email 

Mike’s Website

Mike’s Instagram

Free PDF: Finding Your Brand Personality

Design Harmony – A Look at Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness

Interior Designers Embracing Wellness – Focused Design Opportunties

Sign up for CEU Class via Zoom August 13, 2020, only $40.00 per person!

Design Harmony: Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness

Book Mentioned:

Beauty, Neuroscience, and Architecture: Timeless Patterns and Their Impact on Our Well-Being by Donald H. Ruggles

Nature by Design: The Practice of Biophilic Design by Stephen Kellert

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Other shows mentioned for shownotes:

Cheryl Janis #41

#82,  #212, #218, #224

Laurance Carr #484 

 

]]> 2869 no 568: Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM” http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/568-arianne-bellizaire-a-reluctant-and-accidental-leader-in-blm Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is LuAnn’s friend, Arianne Bellizaire. In this #blacklivesmatter episode, Arianne shares her experiences with us as a black woman and designer. Don’t be surprised when you have some self-discovery moments as Arianne takes LuAnn on a dive into the policies and systems that have been built in this country that allow us to see things differently. In addition, Arianne catches us up on what she’s been working on since she was last a guest on the show, and you don’t want to miss the details of her new video course! Please join this conversation, for you are sure to learn something new.   Award-winning, Baton Rouge-based interior designer and content creator Arianne Bellizaire is a certified True Colour Expert who inspires her design clients and readers with her warmth, positivity, and creative problem-solving talents. Among Arianne's many awards and achievements in her design career, she has been named a High Point Market Authority Style Spotter (2015), Perlick Ambassador of Cool (2017), Villeroy & Boch Color Challenge Winner (2017), Modenus Blog Tour invitee (2016 & 2019), and Modenus DesignHound (Spain and London 2016, Surfaces 2018). Her blog Inspired To Style is a two-time nominee for the Amara Interior Blog Awards (2016, 2017) and is currently listed as one of the Modenus Top 100 Influential Blogs. Her work and expertise have been featured in Rue Daily, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Business of Home, and USA Today. Show Highlights: Arianne shares how she decided to have more conversations about race with her white friends through reading How To Be An Antiracist and talking about it in the Facebook group that she created for it, Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism. This Facebook group grew rapidly and within two weeks of its inception, a curriculum and format was created. “Part of the challenge is everybody’s perspective causes them to see the world differently.” - Arianne The book allows the group to see history and policies as they are layered over race. Do you remember the debate about the dress that people were adamant was either black and blue or white and gold? Does Arianne have an analogy for you! Arianne provides examples of how we all subliminally have a hierarchy in our minds regarding race, and what is “good” versus what is “bad”. We must look at every policy and ask ourselves if that policy is “anti-racist”. “Anti-racist” is anything that provides equity for all races. It does not make one race superior to another. When you hear someone point out inequities or discrepancies, please do not feel offended. Rather, listen to the fact that that person loves this country enough to try to make it better. Arianne discusses her video course, Video Like A Pro. It’s about how to do video: how to make video a story, how to write a script, how to plan for your shoots, what equipment you need, and much more! Connect with Arianne! Arianne’s Email  Arianne’s Instagram Arianne’s Facebook Arianne’s Pinterest Arianne’s Twitter Arianne’s video course: Video Like A Pro Facebook Group: Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism The 1619 Project Podcast Books Mentioned: How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X Kendi Stamped by Ibram X Kendi Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision.com to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned  #20 Arianne’s original appearance Other #BLM Shows: #549 Corey Damen Jenkins #556 Kae Whitaker  #562 Rasheeda Gray   Thu, 23 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM” full 568 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is LuAnn’s friend, Arianne Bellizaire. In this #blacklivesmatter episode, Arianne shares her experiences with us as a black woman and designer. Don’t be surprised when you have some... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is LuAnn’s friend, Arianne Bellizaire. In this #blacklivesmatter episode, Arianne shares her experiences with us as a black woman and designer. Don’t be surprised when you have some self-discovery moments as Arianne takes LuAnn on a dive into the policies and systems that have been built in this country that allow us to see things differently. In addition, Arianne catches us up on what she’s been working on since she was last a guest on the show, and you don’t want to miss the details of her new video course! Please join this conversation, for you are sure to learn something new.   Award-winning, Baton Rouge-based interior designer and content creator Arianne Bellizaire is a certified True Colour Expert who inspires her design clients and readers with her warmth, positivity, and creative problem-solving talents. Among Arianne's many awards and achievements in her design career, she has been named a High Point Market Authority Style Spotter (2015), Perlick Ambassador of Cool (2017), Villeroy & Boch Color Challenge Winner (2017), Modenus Blog Tour invitee (2016 & 2019), and Modenus DesignHound (Spain and London 2016, Surfaces 2018). Her blog Inspired To Style is a two-time nominee for the Amara Interior Blog Awards (2016, 2017) and is currently listed as one of the Modenus Top 100 Influential Blogs. Her work and expertise have been featured in Rue Daily, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Business of Home, and USA Today. Show Highlights: Arianne shares how she decided to have more conversations about race with her white friends through reading How To Be An Antiracist and talking about it in the Facebook group that she created for it, Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism. This Facebook group grew rapidly and within two weeks of its inception, a curriculum and format was created. “Part of the challenge is everybody’s perspective causes them to see the world differently.” - Arianne The book allows the group to see history and policies as they are layered over race. Do you remember the debate about the dress that people were adamant was either black and blue or white and gold? Does Arianne have an analogy for you! Arianne provides examples of how we all subliminally have a hierarchy in our minds regarding race, and what is “good” versus what is “bad”. We must look at every policy and ask ourselves if that policy is “anti-racist”. “Anti-racist” is anything that provides equity for all races. It does not make one race superior to another. When you hear someone point out inequities or discrepancies, please do not feel offended. Rather, listen to the fact that that person loves this country enough to try to make it better. Arianne discusses her video course, Video Like A Pro. It’s about how to do video: how to make video a story, how to write a script, how to plan for your shoots, what equipment you need, and much more! Connect with Arianne! Arianne’s Email  Arianne’s Instagram Arianne’s Facebook Arianne’s Pinterest Arianne’s Twitter Arianne’s video course: Video Like A Pro Facebook Group: Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism The 1619 Project Podcast Books Mentioned: How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X Kendi Stamped by Ibram X Kendi Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision.com to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned  #20 Arianne’s original appearance Other #BLM Shows: #549 Corey Damen Jenkins #556 Kae Whitaker  #562 Rasheeda Gray   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is LuAnn’s friend, Arianne Bellizaire. In this #blacklivesmatter episode, Arianne shares her experiences with us as a black woman and designer. Don’t be surprised when you have some self-discovery moments as Arianne takes LuAnn on a dive into the policies and systems that have been built in this country that allow us to see things differently. In addition, Arianne catches us up on what she’s been working on since she was last a guest on the show, and you don’t want to miss the details of her new video course! Please join this conversation, for you are sure to learn something new.

 

Award-winning, Baton Rouge-based interior designer and content creator Arianne Bellizaire is a certified True Colour Expert who inspires her design clients and readers with her warmth, positivity, and creative problem-solving talents. Among Arianne's many awards and achievements in her design career, she has been named a High Point Market Authority Style Spotter (2015), Perlick Ambassador of Cool (2017), Villeroy & Boch Color Challenge Winner (2017), Modenus Blog Tour invitee (2016 & 2019), and Modenus DesignHound (Spain and London 2016, Surfaces 2018). Her blog Inspired To Style is a two-time nominee for the Amara Interior Blog Awards (2016, 2017) and is currently listed as one of the Modenus Top 100 Influential Blogs. Her work and expertise have been featured in Rue Daily, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Business of Home, and USA Today.

Show Highlights:

  • Arianne shares how she decided to have more conversations about race with her white friends through reading How To Be An Antiracist and talking about it in the Facebook group that she created for it, Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism.
  • This Facebook group grew rapidly and within two weeks of its inception, a curriculum and format was created.
  • “Part of the challenge is everybody’s perspective causes them to see the world differently.” - Arianne
  • The book allows the group to see history and policies as they are layered over race.
  • Do you remember the debate about the dress that people were adamant was either black and blue or white and gold? Does Arianne have an analogy for you!
  • Arianne provides examples of how we all subliminally have a hierarchy in our minds regarding race, and what is “good” versus what is “bad”.
  • We must look at every policy and ask ourselves if that policy is “anti-racist”.
  • “Anti-racist” is anything that provides equity for all races. It does not make one race superior to another.
  • When you hear someone point out inequities or discrepancies, please do not feel offended. Rather, listen to the fact that that person loves this country enough to try to make it better.
  • Arianne discusses her video course, Video Like A Pro. It’s about how to do video: how to make video a story, how to write a script, how to plan for your shoots, what equipment you need, and much more!

Connect with Arianne!

Arianne’s Email 

Arianne’s Instagram

Arianne’s Facebook

Arianne’s Pinterest

Arianne’s Twitter

Arianne’s video course:

Video Like A Pro

Facebook Group: Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism

The 1619 Project Podcast

Books Mentioned:

How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X Kendi

Stamped by Ibram X Kendi

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision.com to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned 

#20 Arianne’s original appearance

Other #BLM Shows:

#549 Corey Damen Jenkins

#556 Kae Whitaker 

#562 Rasheeda Gray

 

]]> 4401 no 567: Karen B. Wolf: Marketing During a Pandemic, Double Down or Drown http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/567-karen-b-wolf-marketing-during-a-pandemic-double-down-or-drown Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is her friend, Karen Wolf, and they’re going to be covering how Karen jumped into immediate action at the outset of the Covid-19 crisis. Karen’s background in marketing taught her to “double down or drown”, and she wasn’t about to drown. Listen in to hear how Karen’s decisive leadership combined with a willingness to think outside the box put her in the category of an exceptional business owner. See if you don’t have some great “A’ha” moments during this conversation! Karen is the Principal and Owner of nationally-recognized Karen B. Wolf Interiors. She is known for her signature style—"modern elegance,” which speaks to livable luxury, balanced color usage, clean lines, and layered spaces. Prioritizing her clients’ input and preferred aesthetics, Karen leads her team of talented women to create upscale residential spaces that speak authentically to her clients’ one-of-a-kind lifestyles and interests. Karen’s enthusiasm and passion for all facets of interior design have been a driving factor in her firm’s 10+ years of success and ability to work transparently, collaboratively, and effectively with her community of loyal clients. A triple-threat, Karen’s education in Fine Arts, Marketing and Trends Analysis offered her the knowledge and vision to build a successful design business from the ground up. With experience in product development, Karen always has her eye on what’s new and next, organically incorporating the newest and upcoming trends in ways that are warm and timeless. Karen’s work has been featured in a number of notable regional and national publications, both print and digital, as well as on national television on NBC’s George to the Rescue. A reliable source in the design industry, Karen has participated on business and design-focused podcasts and has an engaged, consistent presence at industry trade shows and conferences around the country. Karen believes that every project deserves a little sparkle, a little color, something natural, and lots of love. Show Highlights: Karen explains her “double-down or drown” philosophy. Designers should be marketing themselves 25% of the time, especially during a recession or pandemic. Learn to identify and overcome the roadblocks and perception issues that get in the way of marketing. Karen describes how she decided on content creation and marketing outreach for lead generation. The biggest move Karen made was creating Design Pop Live, an IG series on Design Trends. The content generated by these talks can be broken up into mini content for Pinterest, Facebook and blog. The content can also inspire additional topics for conversations. “You have to step past the fear, and step out. It works! After I did it once, it was just like riding a bike, all over again.” - Karen Consider hiring a marketing coordinator. Karen details her key strategies. Work it! Sometime you just have to hustle to succeed, especially right now. Connect with Karen! Karen’s Instagram  Karen’s Facebook  Karen’s Pinterest   Karen’s Website Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Elissa Grayer #451     Tue, 21 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Karen B. Wolf: Marketing During a Pandemic, Double Down or Drown full 567 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is her friend, Karen Wolf, and they’re going to be covering how Karen jumped into immediate action at the outset of the Covid-19 crisis. Karen’s background in marketing taught her to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is her friend, Karen Wolf, and they’re going to be covering how Karen jumped into immediate action at the outset of the Covid-19 crisis. Karen’s background in marketing taught her to “double down or drown”, and she wasn’t about to drown. Listen in to hear how Karen’s decisive leadership combined with a willingness to think outside the box put her in the category of an exceptional business owner. See if you don’t have some great “A’ha” moments during this conversation! Karen is the Principal and Owner of nationally-recognized Karen B. Wolf Interiors. She is known for her signature style—"modern elegance,” which speaks to livable luxury, balanced color usage, clean lines, and layered spaces. Prioritizing her clients’ input and preferred aesthetics, Karen leads her team of talented women to create upscale residential spaces that speak authentically to her clients’ one-of-a-kind lifestyles and interests. Karen’s enthusiasm and passion for all facets of interior design have been a driving factor in her firm’s 10+ years of success and ability to work transparently, collaboratively, and effectively with her community of loyal clients. A triple-threat, Karen’s education in Fine Arts, Marketing and Trends Analysis offered her the knowledge and vision to build a successful design business from the ground up. With experience in product development, Karen always has her eye on what’s new and next, organically incorporating the newest and upcoming trends in ways that are warm and timeless. Karen’s work has been featured in a number of notable regional and national publications, both print and digital, as well as on national television on NBC’s George to the Rescue. A reliable source in the design industry, Karen has participated on business and design-focused podcasts and has an engaged, consistent presence at industry trade shows and conferences around the country. Karen believes that every project deserves a little sparkle, a little color, something natural, and lots of love. Show Highlights: Karen explains her “double-down or drown” philosophy. Designers should be marketing themselves 25% of the time, especially during a recession or pandemic. Learn to identify and overcome the roadblocks and perception issues that get in the way of marketing. Karen describes how she decided on content creation and marketing outreach for lead generation. The biggest move Karen made was creating Design Pop Live, an IG series on Design Trends. The content generated by these talks can be broken up into mini content for Pinterest, Facebook and blog. The content can also inspire additional topics for conversations. “You have to step past the fear, and step out. It works! After I did it once, it was just like riding a bike, all over again.” - Karen Consider hiring a marketing coordinator. Karen details her key strategies. Work it! Sometime you just have to hustle to succeed, especially right now. Connect with Karen! Karen’s Instagram  Karen’s Facebook  Karen’s Pinterest   Karen’s Website Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM Elissa Grayer #451     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is her friend, Karen Wolf, and they’re going to be covering how Karen jumped into immediate action at the outset of the Covid-19 crisis. Karen’s background in marketing taught her to “double down or drown”, and she wasn’t about to drown. Listen in to hear how Karen’s decisive leadership combined with a willingness to think outside the box put her in the category of an exceptional business owner. See if you don’t have some great “A’ha” moments during this conversation!

Karen is the Principal and Owner of nationally-recognized Karen B. Wolf Interiors. She is known for her signature style—"modern elegance,” which speaks to livable luxury, balanced color usage, clean lines, and layered spaces. Prioritizing her clients’ input and preferred aesthetics, Karen leads her team of talented women to create upscale residential spaces that speak authentically to her clients’ one-of-a-kind lifestyles and interests. Karen’s enthusiasm and passion for all facets of interior design have been a driving factor in her firm’s 10+ years of success and ability to work transparently, collaboratively, and effectively with her community of loyal clients.

A triple-threat, Karen’s education in Fine Arts, Marketing and Trends Analysis offered her the knowledge and vision to build a successful design business from the ground up. With experience in product development, Karen always has her eye on what’s new and next, organically incorporating the newest and upcoming trends in ways that are warm and timeless.

Karen’s work has been featured in a number of notable regional and national publications, both print and digital, as well as on national television on NBC’s George to the Rescue. A reliable source in the design industry, Karen has participated on business and design-focused podcasts and has an engaged, consistent presence at industry trade shows and conferences around the country.

Karen believes that every project deserves a little sparkle, a little color, something natural, and lots of love.

Show Highlights:

  • Karen explains her “double-down or drown” philosophy.
  • Designers should be marketing themselves 25% of the time, especially during a recession or pandemic.
  • Learn to identify and overcome the roadblocks and perception issues that get in the way of marketing.
  • Karen describes how she decided on content creation and marketing outreach for lead generation.
  • The biggest move Karen made was creating Design Pop Live, an IG series on Design Trends.
  • The content generated by these talks can be broken up into mini content for Pinterest, Facebook and blog. The content can also inspire additional topics for conversations.
  • “You have to step past the fear, and step out. It works! After I did it once, it was just like riding a bike, all over again.” - Karen
  • Consider hiring a marketing coordinator.
  • Karen details her key strategies.
  • Work it! Sometime you just have to hustle to succeed, especially right now.

Connect with Karen!

Karen’s Instagram 

Karen’s Facebook 

Karen’s Pinterest  

Karen’s Website

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM

Elissa Grayer #451



 

 

]]> 3604 no 566: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/566-power-talk-friday-ashley-uhl-talk-to-clients-like-a-leader-not-a-boss Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Ashley Uhl joins LuAnn on today’s show to talk about how to talk to your clients like a leader, not like a boss. Ashley Uhl is the only client experience consultant exclusively focused on working with interior designers and decorators.   Ashley’s knowledge and expertise in client experience comes from her degree in Psychology, years of working with high net worth individuals at wealth management firm Morgan Stanley, formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations at top professional development company, Dale Carnegie, and from years of gleaning knowledge from five star establishments she visited during her international travel. Her knowledge of interior design, and the processes around it, came from her short stint as a designer, which then became a pivot to teaching designers about the client experience.  Ashley now shows designers how to confidently lead clients through the design process by teaching them a repeatable, systematic approach to delivering an exceptional client experience.  One that results in higher fees, increased efficiency, and clients absolutely adoring you.  Ashley’s blog on the exceptional client experience is read by design professionals all over the world and has been a featured guest on podcasts such as Wingnut Social, Kimberly Seldon’s Business of Design, Kate the Socialite’s The Kate Show, and Michelle Williams’ Profit is a Choice. You can learn more about Ashley and how she works with designers at Ashley Uhl Consulting. Show Highlights: You don’t want your clients to run over you, so you want to communicate with them in a very specific, client-friendly way. Especially in initial conversations with people, keep the focus on what you’re willing to do, not on what you’re NOT willing to do. Talk in the positive. Ashley shares how to redirect clients in constructive ways. There’s a gentle way to flip deadlines around holidays and parties. “You aren’t a butler; you choose to be a servant-leader. You’re setting the tone every step of the way. You’re a leader who’s actively thinking through problems that your client is going to come up against. “ - Ashley It’s Ok to tell your client you need some time to think on a request, but let them know when you will get back with them. Take this time to experience your fear, then come up with a solution to take to your client. This puts you back in the leadership position. Explaining situations with respect to your clients is the doctor’s equivalent of having a great “bedside manner”. Ashley has pre-recorded video courses that can be taken at any time that teaches you how you can consistently provide an exceptional client experience from beginning to end. She also provides ideas on client pampering! Connect with Ashley! Ashley’s Facebook Ashley’s Instagram Ashley’s Pinterest  Ashley’s Email Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Attend the Virtual IWCE - July 29-30, 2020 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Instagram Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527  Claire Jefford #237, #325, #486  Sandra Funk #2, 145, 520    Fri, 17 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss full 566 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Ashley Uhl joins LuAnn on today’s show to talk about how to talk to your clients like a leader, not like a boss. Ashley Uhl is the only client experience consultant exclusively focused... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Ashley Uhl joins LuAnn on today’s show to talk about how to talk to your clients like a leader, not like a boss. Ashley Uhl is the only client experience consultant exclusively focused on working with interior designers and decorators.   Ashley’s knowledge and expertise in client experience comes from her degree in Psychology, years of working with high net worth individuals at wealth management firm Morgan Stanley, formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations at top professional development company, Dale Carnegie, and from years of gleaning knowledge from five star establishments she visited during her international travel. Her knowledge of interior design, and the processes around it, came from her short stint as a designer, which then became a pivot to teaching designers about the client experience.  Ashley now shows designers how to confidently lead clients through the design process by teaching them a repeatable, systematic approach to delivering an exceptional client experience.  One that results in higher fees, increased efficiency, and clients absolutely adoring you.  Ashley’s blog on the exceptional client experience is read by design professionals all over the world and has been a featured guest on podcasts such as Wingnut Social, Kimberly Seldon’s Business of Design, Kate the Socialite’s The Kate Show, and Michelle Williams’ Profit is a Choice. You can learn more about Ashley and how she works with designers at Ashley Uhl Consulting. Show Highlights: You don’t want your clients to run over you, so you want to communicate with them in a very specific, client-friendly way. Especially in initial conversations with people, keep the focus on what you’re willing to do, not on what you’re NOT willing to do. Talk in the positive. Ashley shares how to redirect clients in constructive ways. There’s a gentle way to flip deadlines around holidays and parties. “You aren’t a butler; you choose to be a servant-leader. You’re setting the tone every step of the way. You’re a leader who’s actively thinking through problems that your client is going to come up against. “ - Ashley It’s Ok to tell your client you need some time to think on a request, but let them know when you will get back with them. Take this time to experience your fear, then come up with a solution to take to your client. This puts you back in the leadership position. Explaining situations with respect to your clients is the doctor’s equivalent of having a great “bedside manner”. Ashley has pre-recorded video courses that can be taken at any time that teaches you how you can consistently provide an exceptional client experience from beginning to end. She also provides ideas on client pampering! Connect with Ashley! Ashley’s Facebook Ashley’s Instagram Ashley’s Pinterest  Ashley’s Email Links : Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Attend the Virtual IWCE - July 29-30, 2020 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Instagram Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527  Claire Jefford #237, #325, #486  Sandra Funk #2, 145, 520    Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Ashley Uhl joins LuAnn on today’s show to talk about how to talk to your clients like a leader, not like a boss.

Ashley Uhl is the only client experience consultant exclusively focused on working with interior designers and decorators.  

Ashley’s knowledge and expertise in client experience comes from her degree in Psychology, years of working with high net worth individuals at wealth management firm Morgan Stanley, formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations at top professional development company, Dale Carnegie, and from years of gleaning knowledge from five star establishments she visited during her international travel. Her knowledge of interior design, and the processes around it, came from her short stint as a designer, which then became a pivot to teaching designers about the client experience. 

Ashley now shows designers how to confidently lead clients through the design process by teaching them a repeatable, systematic approach to delivering an exceptional client experience.  One that results in higher fees, increased efficiency, and clients absolutely adoring you. 

Ashley’s blog on the exceptional client experience is read by design professionals all over the world and has been a featured guest on podcasts such as Wingnut Social, Kimberly Seldon’s Business of Design, Kate the Socialite’s The Kate Show, and Michelle Williams’ Profit is a Choice. You can learn more about Ashley and how she works with designers at Ashley Uhl Consulting.

Show Highlights:

  • You don’t want your clients to run over you, so you want to communicate with them in a very specific, client-friendly way.
  • Especially in initial conversations with people, keep the focus on what you’re willing to do, not on what you’re NOT willing to do. Talk in the positive.
  • Ashley shares how to redirect clients in constructive ways.
  • There’s a gentle way to flip deadlines around holidays and parties.
  • “You aren’t a butler; you choose to be a servant-leader. You’re setting the tone every step of the way. You’re a leader who’s actively thinking through problems that your client is going to come up against. “ - Ashley
  • It’s Ok to tell your client you need some time to think on a request, but let them know when you will get back with them. Take this time to experience your fear, then come up with a solution to take to your client. This puts you back in the leadership position.
  • Explaining situations with respect to your clients is the doctor’s equivalent of having a great “bedside manner”.
  • Ashley has pre-recorded video courses that can be taken at any time that teaches you how you can consistently provide an exceptional client experience from beginning to end. She also provides ideas on client pampering!

Connect with Ashley!

Ashley’s Facebook

Ashley’s Instagram

Ashley’s Pinterest 

Ashley’s Email

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Attend the Virtual IWCE - July 29-30, 2020

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Instagram

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527 

Claire Jefford #237, #325, #486 

Sandra Funk #2, 145, 520 

 

]]> 3342 no 565: What Would Lu Do: How Do I Prepare My Solo Interior Design Business for Maternity Leave? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/565-what-would-lu-do-how-do-i-prepare-my-solo-interior-design-business-for-maternity-leave Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Griffin Dorner, who is pregnant and due in October. Furthermore, she is the only one in her business so she’s looking for tips on how to prepare for maternity leave. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Griffin’s situation. LuAnn speaks from her heart regarding making our babies our first priority. Griffin should consider what she will and will not do during maternity leave. Based on that conversation with herself and a trusted family member, friend, or peer, here are what Griffin’s next steps should be: Review her projects and tie out as many as she can right now to completion. Review and lock down her finances, including invoices and operating expenses. Consider what happens with deficiency phone calls. Consider what happens with new work inquiries. Consider what to do about email and phone and who will be checking it. If you have a social media presence, think about hiring it out! If you have a newsletter, maybe take the time to write your blog posts now. LuAnn details how Griffin may be able to put her work hat on once a week while a loved one cares for her baby as she monitors work situations. Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision.com to register. LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Starts July 22nd! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Thu, 16 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: How Do I Prepare My Solo Interior Design Business for Maternity Leave? full 565 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Griffin Dorner, who is pregnant and due in October.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Griffin Dorner, who is pregnant and due in October. Furthermore, she is the only one in her business so she’s looking for tips on how to prepare for maternity leave. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn provides the details around Griffin’s situation. LuAnn speaks from her heart regarding making our babies our first priority. Griffin should consider what she will and will not do during maternity leave. Based on that conversation with herself and a trusted family member, friend, or peer, here are what Griffin’s next steps should be: Review her projects and tie out as many as she can right now to completion. Review and lock down her finances, including invoices and operating expenses. Consider what happens with deficiency phone calls. Consider what happens with new work inquiries. Consider what to do about email and phone and who will be checking it. If you have a social media presence, think about hiring it out! If you have a newsletter, maybe take the time to write your blog posts now. LuAnn details how Griffin may be able to put her work hat on once a week while a loved one cares for her baby as she monitors work situations. Links : Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision.com to register. LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Starts July 22nd! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Griffin Dorner, who is pregnant and due in October. Furthermore, she is the only one in her business so she’s looking for tips on how to prepare for maternity leave.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn provides the details around Griffin’s situation.
  • LuAnn speaks from her heart regarding making our babies our first priority.
  • Griffin should consider what she will and will not do during maternity leave.
  • Based on that conversation with herself and a trusted family member, friend, or peer, here are what Griffin’s next steps should be:
  • Review her projects and tie out as many as she can right now to completion.
  • Review and lock down her finances, including invoices and operating expenses.
  • Consider what happens with deficiency phone calls.
  • Consider what happens with new work inquiries.
  • Consider what to do about email and phone and who will be checking it.
  • If you have a social media presence, think about hiring it out!
  • If you have a newsletter, maybe take the time to write your blog posts now.
  • LuAnn details how Griffin may be able to put her work hat on once a week while a loved one cares for her baby as she monitors work situations.

Links :

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision.com to register.

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Starts July 22nd!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB 

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

 

]]> 1495 no 564: Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/564-vicky-serany-southern-studio-thriving-despite-covid-19 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Vicky Serany from Southern Studio, and you’re going to hear how Vicky’s mission, vision, and goals for her company changed over the years. Sometimes you just have to make your business fit the life you have. You’ll be inspired to learn that you can revise, recalibrate, and reinvent your business at any time ever, over your entire life - and you’re going to receive lots of insights on leadership, too, so listen in! Vicky Serany uses fresh combinations of texture, pattern, and color to create luxury interiors that meet the needs of each client. By paying attention to every detail of a project, she is able to meticulously transform the design vision into reality. Her inspiration comes from the beauty in everyday life and travel to fascinating places. Vicky’s extensive work in residential design and new home construction has earned her awards both locally and nationally. Vicky is an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and lives in Cary with her husband, Dan. This empty nest mom jumps at the opportunity to spend time with her two grown children. When she’s not creating inspired interiors, Vicky enjoys spending time at the beach, sharing a bottle of wine with close friends, and exploring new adventures on her bucket list! Southern Studio Interior Design was founded in 2001 and has earned a reputation as an award-winning interior design firm specializing in luxury interior spaces with casual sophistication. We believe that a well-designed home is timeless and reflects the unique personalities of its owners. The mission of Southern Studio is to provide a high level of creativity, integrity, and personalized attention to every project. Show Highlights: Vicky shares the dilemma she faced during the 2008 recession and the solution she found that actually went against everybody’s advice. Vicky and her team took advantage during coronavirus to work on “Covid-19” projects from home, learning new skills. “The one thing I’ve learned is that if we really focus on best business practices, we can survive and we plan for the down times.” Vicky LuAnn addresses the need to have a support group within the industry - mentors, business coaches, and experts in the area. Vicky provides an overview of the tools, processes, and systems that help her and her team to manage projects. Every team member is empowered to use their “Make It Right” policy. Learn from mistakes. Think about where you want to be and where you want to go so that you’re better equipped to lead your teams into the future. No matter where you are as a designer, you get there with a plan, taking action, and your support group. When things are tough, it doesn’t always mean that something is wrong. Don’t be paralyzed by fear! Connect with Vicky! Vicky’s Email Vicky’s Website Vicky’s Instagram Vicky’s Blog Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 EARLY BIRD PRICING OF $99 THROUGH JULY 14TH!! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned Eileen Hahn #363 LuAnn Solo show: Let's Be Profitable #491 Laura Umansky #492   Tue, 14 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Vicky Serany, Southern Studio: Thriving Despite Covid 19 full 564 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Vicky Serany from Southern Studio, and you’re going to hear how Vicky’s mission, vision, and goals for her company changed over the years. Sometimes you just have to make your business... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Vicky Serany from Southern Studio, and you’re going to hear how Vicky’s mission, vision, and goals for her company changed over the years. Sometimes you just have to make your business fit the life you have. You’ll be inspired to learn that you can revise, recalibrate, and reinvent your business at any time ever, over your entire life - and you’re going to receive lots of insights on leadership, too, so listen in! Vicky Serany uses fresh combinations of texture, pattern, and color to create luxury interiors that meet the needs of each client. By paying attention to every detail of a project, she is able to meticulously transform the design vision into reality. Her inspiration comes from the beauty in everyday life and travel to fascinating places. Vicky’s extensive work in residential design and new home construction has earned her awards both locally and nationally. Vicky is an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and lives in Cary with her husband, Dan. This empty nest mom jumps at the opportunity to spend time with her two grown children. When she’s not creating inspired interiors, Vicky enjoys spending time at the beach, sharing a bottle of wine with close friends, and exploring new adventures on her bucket list! Southern Studio Interior Design was founded in 2001 and has earned a reputation as an award-winning interior design firm specializing in luxury interior spaces with casual sophistication. We believe that a well-designed home is timeless and reflects the unique personalities of its owners. The mission of Southern Studio is to provide a high level of creativity, integrity, and personalized attention to every project. Show Highlights: Vicky shares the dilemma she faced during the 2008 recession and the solution she found that actually went against everybody’s advice. Vicky and her team took advantage during coronavirus to work on “Covid-19” projects from home, learning new skills. “The one thing I’ve learned is that if we really focus on best business practices, we can survive and we plan for the down times.” Vicky LuAnn addresses the need to have a support group within the industry - mentors, business coaches, and experts in the area. Vicky provides an overview of the tools, processes, and systems that help her and her team to manage projects. Every team member is empowered to use their “Make It Right” policy. Learn from mistakes. Think about where you want to be and where you want to go so that you’re better equipped to lead your teams into the future. No matter where you are as a designer, you get there with a plan, taking action, and your support group. When things are tough, it doesn’t always mean that something is wrong. Don’t be paralyzed by fear! Connect with Vicky! Vicky’s Email Vicky’s Website Vicky’s Instagram Vicky’s Blog Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 EARLY BIRD PRICING OF $99 THROUGH JULY 14TH!! Closing the Sale Begins at Hello July 29 & 30, 2020 Go to IWCE Vision to register. Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned Eileen Hahn #363 LuAnn Solo show: Let's Be Profitable #491 Laura Umansky #492   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Vicky Serany from Southern Studio, and you’re going to hear how Vicky’s mission, vision, and goals for her company changed over the years. Sometimes you just have to make your business fit the life you have. You’ll be inspired to learn that you can revise, recalibrate, and reinvent your business at any time ever, over your entire life - and you’re going to receive lots of insights on leadership, too, so listen in!

Vicky Serany uses fresh combinations of texture, pattern, and color to create luxury interiors that meet the needs of each client. By paying attention to every detail of a project, she is able to meticulously transform the design vision into reality. Her inspiration comes from the beauty in everyday life and travel to fascinating places. Vicky’s extensive work in residential design and new home construction has earned her awards both locally and nationally. Vicky is an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and lives in Cary with her husband, Dan. This empty nest mom jumps at the opportunity to spend time with her two grown children. When she’s not creating inspired interiors, Vicky enjoys spending time at the beach, sharing a bottle of wine with close friends, and exploring new adventures on her bucket list!

Southern Studio Interior Design was founded in 2001 and has earned a reputation as an award-winning interior design firm specializing in luxury interior spaces with casual sophistication. We believe that a well-designed home is timeless and reflects the unique personalities of its owners. The mission of Southern Studio is to provide a high level of creativity, integrity, and personalized attention to every project.




Show Highlights:

  • Vicky shares the dilemma she faced during the 2008 recession and the solution she found that actually went against everybody’s advice.
  • Vicky and her team took advantage during coronavirus to work on “Covid-19” projects from home, learning new skills.
  • “The one thing I’ve learned is that if we really focus on best business practices, we can survive and we plan for the down times.” Vicky
  • LuAnn addresses the need to have a support group within the industry - mentors, business coaches, and experts in the area.
  • Vicky provides an overview of the tools, processes, and systems that help her and her team to manage projects.
  • Every team member is empowered to use their “Make It Right” policy.
  • Learn from mistakes.
  • Think about where you want to be and where you want to go so that you’re better equipped to lead your teams into the future.
  • No matter where you are as a designer, you get there with a plan, taking action, and your support group.
  • When things are tough, it doesn’t always mean that something is wrong.
  • Don’t be paralyzed by fear!

Connect with Vicky!

Vicky’s Email

Vicky’s Website

Vicky’s Instagram

Vicky’s Blog

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

EARLY BIRD PRICING OF $99 THROUGH JULY 14TH!!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned

Eileen Hahn #363

LuAnn Solo show: Let's Be Profitable #491

Laura Umansky #492

 

]]> 3182 no 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/563-power-talk-friday-mike-van-tassell-expressing-your-brand-through-photography Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Photographer Mike Van Tassell joins LuAnn in conversation today, and if you know anything about last year’s LuAnn Live, then you already know Mike. If you don’t, you will by the end of this show! As you listen, there will be no mistaking Mike’s commitment and passion to his profession and how he works with designers and architects. You’re in for a treat! Born and raised in New York City, Mike always found himself surrounded by cutting edge art and stunning architecture. His passion for art was one that developed early in life and always stuck with him. While studying Graphic Arts & Architecture at the City University of New York, he discovered photography through his coursework and began diving into the medium as a hobby. That hobby soon flourished into a professional career as he discovered a way to combine his excitement for photography and architecture. Mike spent the first 15 years of his professional career as a Photographer, Art Director and Creative Director for marketing organizations across New Jersey and New York City. Today, as an independent photographer, he is able to combine 15 years of client-facing services, along with his vision as an artist to bring a best in class customer experience to his clients. Mike is equally devoted to delivering high-end photography, as well as an unmatched customer experience to each of his clients. Specializing in partnerships with architects, interior designers, and what sets him apart is his ability to truly partner and collaborate with his clients as fellow artists with a vision for their work. Mike takes time in his process to hear each of their unique needs and apply a trained eye to his photography, ultimately delivering stand-out images that capture his client’s artistic vision and help their business to thrive. His partnerships span across multiple verticals including residential, commercial, academic, civic & cultural, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. His photography is used across advertising and marketing campaigns, professional portfolios, and design competitions globally.  Show Highlights: In LuAnn’s observation and experience, there is a vast difference between average photography and excellent photography. Mike’s goal is to help designers take their photos to the next level, as well as elevate their online presence. Mike shares how interior designers can successfully work in partnership with photographers. Avoid trend photography, and photograph your spaces the way you want them to appear in your portfolio. Once you’ve established your style and your brand, photography can complement that by getting your photos where they need to be. Mike explains how a good photographer will be able to adapt to a designer’s style by using supplemental lighting, natural sunlight, subtracting light, or by replicating sunlight with strobe lights, for example. Capture photos that take prospective clients back into that space that you designed. Quality photographs of your design work is a key component in marketing your business and cultivating new clients. Here’s what Mike wished designers knew that could make their projects better! LuAnn and Mike reminisce over his photography session at last year’s LuAnn Live. “Photographers are like pizza. Everyone thinks they have the best pizza until they have the best pizza.” - Mike If you’re looking at your photography and you’re not getting a visceral reaction, then it might be time to consider a different photographer. Photography should be factored in when rebranding your website, as the photographs will be the first thing that a prospective client will notice. Remember: Photography is a partnership, a collaboration between creatives. Connect with Mike! Mike’s Email Mike’s Website Mike’s Instagram Mike’s LinkedIn  Mike’s Blog Post: How to Bring Your Interior Design Style to Life Through Photography Links : LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Sarah Winchester #444 Laurel Smith #545 Nicole Heymer #466 Nancy Ganzekaufer #256 Kae Whitaker #26 Raquel Langworthy #343 Stephen Karlisch #369 David Livingston #51 Sara Brennan #524, #514, #463   Fri, 10 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography full 563 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Photographer Mike Van Tassell joins LuAnn in conversation today, and if you know anything about last year’s LuAnn Live, then you already know Mike. If you don’t, you will by the end of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Photographer Mike Van Tassell joins LuAnn in conversation today, and if you know anything about last year’s LuAnn Live, then you already know Mike. If you don’t, you will by the end of this show! As you listen, there will be no mistaking Mike’s commitment and passion to his profession and how he works with designers and architects. You’re in for a treat! Born and raised in New York City, Mike always found himself surrounded by cutting edge art and stunning architecture. His passion for art was one that developed early in life and always stuck with him. While studying Graphic Arts & Architecture at the City University of New York, he discovered photography through his coursework and began diving into the medium as a hobby. That hobby soon flourished into a professional career as he discovered a way to combine his excitement for photography and architecture. Mike spent the first 15 years of his professional career as a Photographer, Art Director and Creative Director for marketing organizations across New Jersey and New York City. Today, as an independent photographer, he is able to combine 15 years of client-facing services, along with his vision as an artist to bring a best in class customer experience to his clients. Mike is equally devoted to delivering high-end photography, as well as an unmatched customer experience to each of his clients. Specializing in partnerships with architects, interior designers, and what sets him apart is his ability to truly partner and collaborate with his clients as fellow artists with a vision for their work. Mike takes time in his process to hear each of their unique needs and apply a trained eye to his photography, ultimately delivering stand-out images that capture his client’s artistic vision and help their business to thrive. His partnerships span across multiple verticals including residential, commercial, academic, civic & cultural, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. His photography is used across advertising and marketing campaigns, professional portfolios, and design competitions globally.  Show Highlights: In LuAnn’s observation and experience, there is a vast difference between average photography and excellent photography. Mike’s goal is to help designers take their photos to the next level, as well as elevate their online presence. Mike shares how interior designers can successfully work in partnership with photographers. Avoid trend photography, and photograph your spaces the way you want them to appear in your portfolio. Once you’ve established your style and your brand, photography can complement that by getting your photos where they need to be. Mike explains how a good photographer will be able to adapt to a designer’s style by using supplemental lighting, natural sunlight, subtracting light, or by replicating sunlight with strobe lights, for example. Capture photos that take prospective clients back into that space that you designed. Quality photographs of your design work is a key component in marketing your business and cultivating new clients. Here’s what Mike wished designers knew that could make their projects better! LuAnn and Mike reminisce over his photography session at last year’s LuAnn Live. “Photographers are like pizza. Everyone thinks they have the best pizza until they have the best pizza.” - Mike If you’re looking at your photography and you’re not getting a visceral reaction, then it might be time to consider a different photographer. Photography should be factored in when rebranding your website, as the photographs will be the first thing that a prospective client will notice. Remember: Photography is a partnership, a collaboration between creatives. Connect with Mike! Mike’s Email Mike’s Website Mike’s Instagram Mike’s LinkedIn  Mike’s Blog Post: How to Bring Your Interior Design Style to Life Through Photography Links : LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021 Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates! Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Sarah Winchester #444 Laurel Smith #545 Nicole Heymer #466 Nancy Ganzekaufer #256 Kae Whitaker #26 Raquel Langworthy #343 Stephen Karlisch #369 David Livingston #51 Sara Brennan #524, #514, #463   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Photographer Mike Van Tassell joins LuAnn in conversation today, and if you know anything about last year’s LuAnn Live, then you already know Mike. If you don’t, you will by the end of this show! As you listen, there will be no mistaking Mike’s commitment and passion to his profession and how he works with designers and architects. You’re in for a treat!

Born and raised in New York City, Mike always found himself surrounded by cutting edge art and stunning architecture. His passion for art was one that developed early in life and always stuck with him. While studying Graphic Arts & Architecture at the City University of New York, he discovered photography through his coursework and began diving into the medium as a hobby. That hobby soon flourished into a professional career as he discovered a way to combine his excitement for photography and architecture.

Mike spent the first 15 years of his professional career as a Photographer, Art Director and Creative Director for marketing organizations across New Jersey and New York City. Today, as an independent photographer, he is able to combine 15 years of client-facing services, along with his vision as an artist to bring a best in class customer experience to his clients.

Mike is equally devoted to delivering high-end photography, as well as an unmatched customer experience to each of his clients. Specializing in partnerships with architects, interior designers, and what sets him apart is his ability to truly partner and collaborate with his clients as fellow artists with a vision for their work. Mike takes time in his process to hear each of their unique needs and apply a trained eye to his photography, ultimately delivering stand-out images that capture his client’s artistic vision and help their business to thrive.

His partnerships span across multiple verticals including residential, commercial, academic, civic & cultural, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. His photography is used across advertising and marketing campaigns, professional portfolios, and design competitions globally. 

Show Highlights:

  • In LuAnn’s observation and experience, there is a vast difference between average photography and excellent photography.
  • Mike’s goal is to help designers take their photos to the next level, as well as elevate their online presence.
  • Mike shares how interior designers can successfully work in partnership with photographers.
  • Avoid trend photography, and photograph your spaces the way you want them to appear in your portfolio.
  • Once you’ve established your style and your brand, photography can complement that by getting your photos where they need to be.
  • Mike explains how a good photographer will be able to adapt to a designer’s style by using supplemental lighting, natural sunlight, subtracting light, or by replicating sunlight with strobe lights, for example.
  • Capture photos that take prospective clients back into that space that you designed.
  • Quality photographs of your design work is a key component in marketing your business and cultivating new clients.
  • Here’s what Mike wished designers knew that could make their projects better!
  • LuAnn and Mike reminisce over his photography session at last year’s LuAnn Live.
  • “Photographers are like pizza. Everyone thinks they have the best pizza until they have the best pizza.” - Mike
  • If you’re looking at your photography and you’re not getting a visceral reaction, then it might be time to consider a different photographer.
  • Photography should be factored in when rebranding your website, as the photographs will be the first thing that a prospective client will notice.
  • Remember: Photography is a partnership, a collaboration between creatives.

Connect with Mike!

Mike’s Email

Mike’s Website

Mike’s Instagram

Mike’s LinkedIn 

Mike’s Blog Post: How to Bring Your Interior Design Style to Life Through Photography

Links :

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Sarah Winchester #444

Laurel Smith #545

Nicole Heymer #466

Nancy Ganzekaufer #256

Kae Whitaker #26

Raquel Langworthy #343

Stephen Karlisch #369

David Livingston #51

Sara Brennan #524, #514, #463

 

]]> 3286 no 562: Rasheeda Gray: #BLM 2020 The Year of Vision http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/562-rasheeda-gray-blm-2020-the-year-of-vision Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Rasheeda Gray joins LuAnn in today’s #blacklivesmatter episode. Rasheeda shares her personal experiences in that we all may learn, benefit, and grow.  Rasheeda Gray is the owner and principal designer of Gray Space Interiors, a full-service design firm in the Philadelphia area. Launched in 2016, Gray Space is devoted to curating a client-focused, transformative, and seamless design experience.  With over 75 residential and commercial projects completed, the Gray Space approach to design can be found at the intersection of creativity, functionality, and process.  Rasheeda's path into design begins at the tail end of a fifteen year career in Marketing and Communications with the nation's top insurance companies. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and International Business as well as a Masters of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in Marketing.  Additionally, she holds a professional certificate in Interior Design from Temple University. Features include HGTV, Good Day Philadelphia, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest Pro, Designers Today, and more. Rasheeda is also the co-founder of Gray Real Estate Group, a real estate development company, along-side her husband, Jake and together they have two children, Jacob Jr., and Kennedy. Show Highlights: Rasheeda shares from the heart - her experiences as a black woman, mom, wife, corporate leader, and designer. Here are Rasheeda’s ideas for action: Follow, support, and share the #sharethemic initiative, both the original movement founded by Bozoma St John and her colleagues and ingeniously brought to our industry by Albie Buabeng. Albie is on Instagram at Albie Knows so follow her for information and updates. To learn more about Albie, please go back to episode #348 when she was on this podcast. Vote, show up, make sure the people in government enact laws that result in real changes. Representation within our industry. Shelter magazines, live events, show houses, product licensing, product development, everything. Look around and speak up to the ones in charge when you do not see our black colleagues at the table. Donate to organizations who make it possible to make change. In the industry, Rasheeda mentioned Black Artists Design Guild and The Black Interior Design organization. Outside the industry consider the NAACP. And finally, do not let this be only a moment, a hashtag. Keep talking, keep learning, stay accountable, teach your friends and children so real change becomes a reality. Please consider where and how you will show up to support her and all of our black colleagues and friends. Connect with Rasheeda! Rasheeda’s Email  Rasheeda’s Website Rasheeda’s Instagram Rasheeda’s Facebook  Rasheeda’s Pinterest Links : Share the Mic Now albieknows Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet Other shows mentioned for shownotes, to link to and to tag in SM Rasheeda Gray #267 Kim Kuhteubl #73 Albie Buabeng #348 Cat French #376 Britany Simon #490 Kae Whitaker #26, #114, #259, #274, #556 Amy Flurry #323, #108 Nicole McGuire #537 Fred Berns #174   Thu, 09 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Rasheeda Gray: #BLM 2020 The Year of Vision full 562 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Rasheeda Gray joins LuAnn in today’s #blacklivesmatter episode. Rasheeda shares her personal experiences in that we all may learn, benefit, and grow.  Rasheeda Gray is the owner and principal designer of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Rasheeda Gray joins LuAnn in today’s #blacklivesmatter episode. Rasheeda shares her personal experiences in that we all may learn, benefit, and grow.  Rasheeda Gray is the owner and principal designer of Gray Space Interiors, a full-service design firm in the Philadelphia area. Launched in 2016, Gray Space is devoted to curating a client-focused, transformative, and seamless design experience.  With over 75 residential and commercial projects completed, the Gray Space approach to design can be found at the intersection of creativity, functionality, and process.  Rasheeda's path into design begins at the tail end of a fifteen year career in Marketing and Communications with the nation's top insurance companies. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and International Business as well as a Masters of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in Marketing.  Additionally, she holds a professional certificate in Interior Design from Temple University. Features include HGTV, Good Day Philadelphia, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest Pro, Designers Today, and more. Rasheeda is also the co-founder of Gray Real Estate Group, a real estate development company, along-side her husband, Jake and together they have two children, Jacob Jr., and Kennedy. Show Highlights: Rasheeda shares from the heart - her experiences as a black woman, mom, wife, corporate leader, and designer. Here are Rasheeda’s ideas for action: Follow, support, and share the #sharethemic initiative, both the original movement founded by Bozoma St John and her colleagues and ingeniously brought to our industry by Albie Buabeng. Albie is on Instagram at Albie Knows so follow her for information and updates. To learn more about Albie, please go back to episode #348 when she was on this podcast. Vote, show up, make sure the people in government enact laws that result in real changes. Representation within our industry. Shelter magazines, live events, show houses, product licensing, product development, everything. Look around and speak up to the ones in charge when you do not see our black colleagues at the table. Donate to organizations who make it possible to make change. In the industry, Rasheeda mentioned Black Artists Design Guild and The Black Interior Design organization. Outside the industry consider the NAACP. And finally, do not let this be only a moment, a hashtag. Keep talking, keep learning, stay accountable, teach your friends and children so real change becomes a reality. Please consider where and how you will show up to support her and all of our black colleagues and friends. Connect with Rasheeda! Rasheeda’s Email  Rasheeda’s Website Rasheeda’s Instagram Rasheeda’s Facebook  Rasheeda’s Pinterest Links : Share the Mic Now albieknows Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service. Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture! Kravet Other shows mentioned for shownotes, to link to and to tag in SM Rasheeda Gray #267 Kim Kuhteubl #73 Albie Buabeng #348 Cat French #376 Britany Simon #490 Kae Whitaker #26, #114, #259, #274, #556 Amy Flurry #323, #108 Nicole McGuire #537 Fred Berns #174   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Rasheeda Gray joins LuAnn in today’s #blacklivesmatter episode. Rasheeda shares her personal experiences in that we all may learn, benefit, and grow. 

Rasheeda Gray is the owner and principal designer of Gray Space Interiors, a full-service design firm in the Philadelphia area. Launched in 2016, Gray Space is devoted to curating a client-focused, transformative, and seamless design experience.  With over 75 residential and commercial projects completed, the Gray Space approach to design can be found at the intersection of creativity, functionality, and process. 

Rasheeda's path into design begins at the tail end of a fifteen year career in Marketing and Communications with the nation's top insurance companies. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and International Business as well as a Masters of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in Marketing.  Additionally, she holds a professional certificate in Interior Design from Temple University. Features include HGTV, Good Day Philadelphia, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest Pro, Designers Today, and more. Rasheeda is also the co-founder of Gray Real Estate Group, a real estate development company, along-side her husband, Jake and together they have two children, Jacob Jr., and Kennedy.

Show Highlights:

  • Rasheeda shares from the heart - her experiences as a black woman, mom, wife, corporate leader, and designer.
  • Here are Rasheeda’s ideas for action:
  • Follow, support, and share the #sharethemic initiative, both the original movement founded by Bozoma St John and her colleagues and ingeniously brought to our industry by Albie Buabeng. Albie is on Instagram at Albie Knows so follow her for information and updates. To learn more about Albie, please go back to episode #348 when she was on this podcast.
  • Vote, show up, make sure the people in government enact laws that result in real changes.
  • Representation within our industry. Shelter magazines, live events, show houses, product licensing, product development, everything. Look around and speak up to the ones in charge when you do not see our black colleagues at the table.
  • Donate to organizations who make it possible to make change. In the industry, Rasheeda mentioned Black Artists Design Guild and The Black Interior Design organization. Outside the industry consider the NAACP.
  • And finally, do not let this be only a moment, a hashtag. Keep talking, keep learning, stay accountable, teach your friends and children so real change becomes a reality.
  • Please consider where and how you will show up to support her and all of our black colleagues and friends.

Connect with Rasheeda!

Rasheeda’s Email 

Rasheeda’s Website

Rasheeda’s Instagram

Rasheeda’s Facebook 

Rasheeda’s Pinterest

Links :

Share the Mic Now

albieknows

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

Other shows mentioned for shownotes, to link to and to tag in SM

Rasheeda Gray #267

Kim Kuhteubl #73

Albie Buabeng #348

Cat French #376

Britany Simon #490

Kae Whitaker #26, #114, #259, #274, #556

Amy Flurry #323, #108

Nicole McGuire #537

Fred Berns #174

 

]]> 4341 no 561: Sara Hillery: Client Retention Strategies http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/561-sara-hillery-client-retention-strategies Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, LuAnn’s guest, Sara Hillery, shares her top tips for client retention and sound advice that you’ll be able to apply to your own business. Take notes or listen to it a second time, too, because you’re sure to hear some tidbits you missed the first time! Sara’s approach involves incorporating the fine and rare with the utilitarian and available, creating beautiful and functional spaces. With a focus on honoring each client’s personal history, the firm excels at updating and transforming client’s interior spaces both architecturally and decoratively making previously acquired and antique pieces more relevant and practical. While Sara draws inspiration from her travels to Europe, India, and Japan, her style invariably reflects her Southern heritage and familial roots in Virginia, Texas, and New Orleans. Upon graduating from the University of Virginia in 2004, Sara turned her focus to architecture and interiors and received her MFA in Interior Environments and ASID certification at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2007. After beginning her career in interior design working for a design group in Richmond, Virginia, Sara relocated to Houston where she became a Project Designer at Lucas Eilers Design Associates. While at Lucas Eilers, Sara’s projects received numerous local awards and accolades including Best in Show, Best Vacation Home, and Best Residential Green Design, and were featured in numerous publications. In 2011 Sara opened Sara Hillery Interior Design. As a proud working mother of 3, Sara excels at making design family friendly while still remaining creative, elegant, and timeless.  RHome, New Orleans Home and Lifestyles, and Boomer Magazine have featured her work. Sara Hillery Interior Design has completed projects in Louisiana, New York, Texas, and Virginia. Show Highlights: “Clients aren’t just clients, they’re a part of my life.” - Sara Sara has genuine interest in each client. The more she knows and understands about them, the better she can serve them. Sara’s detailed client questionnaire serves as a reference throughout the relationship and is updated as she gets to know the client. Setting up the client’s expectations at the very beginning of a project is very important, and Sara offers her strategies. LuAnn shares how we sometimes function out of fear, but we can learn how to operate from a place of faith that doesn’t rock us when we encounter a surprise. More tips from Sara regarding client retention throughout the project. Remember that there is a big emotional tie between the client and the work you are doing for their home. Don’t forget a unique, personal gift to present to your client when the project ends. Sara has a fantastic idea for you to consider! Bottom line in client retention: Pay attention to people, learn the things about them that matter, and act on ways you can show that you appreciate them. Connect with Sara! Sara’s Houzz  Sara’s Website Sara’s Instagram  Sara’s Facebook  Sara’s Email Links : LuAnn’s Blogpost on Faith or Fear Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link. Candy Scott #279 Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527 Ellie Mroz #374   Tue, 07 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Sara Hillery: Client Retention Strategies full 561 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, LuAnn’s guest, Sara Hillery, shares her top tips for client retention and sound advice that you’ll be able to apply to your own business. Take notes or listen to it a second time, too, because you’re... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, LuAnn’s guest, Sara Hillery, shares her top tips for client retention and sound advice that you’ll be able to apply to your own business. Take notes or listen to it a second time, too, because you’re sure to hear some tidbits you missed the first time! Sara’s approach involves incorporating the fine and rare with the utilitarian and available, creating beautiful and functional spaces. With a focus on honoring each client’s personal history, the firm excels at updating and transforming client’s interior spaces both architecturally and decoratively making previously acquired and antique pieces more relevant and practical. While Sara draws inspiration from her travels to Europe, India, and Japan, her style invariably reflects her Southern heritage and familial roots in Virginia, Texas, and New Orleans. Upon graduating from the University of Virginia in 2004, Sara turned her focus to architecture and interiors and received her MFA in Interior Environments and ASID certification at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2007. After beginning her career in interior design working for a design group in Richmond, Virginia, Sara relocated to Houston where she became a Project Designer at Lucas Eilers Design Associates. While at Lucas Eilers, Sara’s projects received numerous local awards and accolades including Best in Show, Best Vacation Home, and Best Residential Green Design, and were featured in numerous publications. In 2011 Sara opened Sara Hillery Interior Design. As a proud working mother of 3, Sara excels at making design family friendly while still remaining creative, elegant, and timeless.  RHome, New Orleans Home and Lifestyles, and Boomer Magazine have featured her work. Sara Hillery Interior Design has completed projects in Louisiana, New York, Texas, and Virginia. Show Highlights: “Clients aren’t just clients, they’re a part of my life.” - Sara Sara has genuine interest in each client. The more she knows and understands about them, the better she can serve them. Sara’s detailed client questionnaire serves as a reference throughout the relationship and is updated as she gets to know the client. Setting up the client’s expectations at the very beginning of a project is very important, and Sara offers her strategies. LuAnn shares how we sometimes function out of fear, but we can learn how to operate from a place of faith that doesn’t rock us when we encounter a surprise. More tips from Sara regarding client retention throughout the project. Remember that there is a big emotional tie between the client and the work you are doing for their home. Don’t forget a unique, personal gift to present to your client when the project ends. Sara has a fantastic idea for you to consider! Bottom line in client retention: Pay attention to people, learn the things about them that matter, and act on ways you can show that you appreciate them. Connect with Sara! Sara’s Houzz  Sara’s Website Sara’s Instagram  Sara’s Facebook  Sara’s Email Links : LuAnn’s Blogpost on Faith or Fear Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Price: $2195 Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned to link. Candy Scott #279 Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527 Ellie Mroz #374   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, LuAnn’s guest, Sara Hillery, shares her top tips for client retention and sound advice that you’ll be able to apply to your own business. Take notes or listen to it a second time, too, because you’re sure to hear some tidbits you missed the first time!

Sara’s approach involves incorporating the fine and rare with the utilitarian and available, creating beautiful and functional spaces. With a focus on honoring each client’s personal history, the firm excels at updating and transforming client’s interior spaces both architecturally and decoratively making previously acquired and antique pieces more relevant and practical. While Sara draws inspiration from her travels to Europe, India, and Japan, her style invariably reflects her Southern heritage and familial roots in Virginia, Texas, and New Orleans.

Upon graduating from the University of Virginia in 2004, Sara turned her focus to architecture and interiors and received her MFA in Interior Environments and ASID certification at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2007.

After beginning her career in interior design working for a design group in Richmond, Virginia, Sara relocated to Houston where she became a Project Designer at Lucas Eilers Design Associates. While at Lucas Eilers, Sara’s projects received numerous local awards and accolades including Best in Show, Best Vacation Home, and Best Residential Green Design, and were featured in numerous publications.

In 2011 Sara opened Sara Hillery Interior Design. As a proud working mother of 3, Sara excels at making design family friendly while still remaining creative, elegant, and timeless.  RHome, New Orleans Home and Lifestyles, and Boomer Magazine have featured her work. Sara Hillery Interior Design has completed projects in Louisiana, New York, Texas, and Virginia.



Show Highlights:

  • “Clients aren’t just clients, they’re a part of my life.” - Sara
  • Sara has genuine interest in each client. The more she knows and understands about them, the better she can serve them.
  • Sara’s detailed client questionnaire serves as a reference throughout the relationship and is updated as she gets to know the client.
  • Setting up the client’s expectations at the very beginning of a project is very important, and Sara offers her strategies.
  • LuAnn shares how we sometimes function out of fear, but we can learn how to operate from a place of faith that doesn’t rock us when we encounter a surprise.
  • More tips from Sara regarding client retention throughout the project.
  • Remember that there is a big emotional tie between the client and the work you are doing for their home.
  • Don’t forget a unique, personal gift to present to your client when the project ends. Sara has a fantastic idea for you to consider!
  • Bottom line in client retention: Pay attention to people, learn the things about them that matter, and act on ways you can show that you appreciate them.

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Houzz 

Sara’s Website

Sara’s Instagram 

Sara’s Facebook 

Sara’s Email

Links :

LuAnn’s Blogpost on Faith or Fear

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned to link.

Candy Scott #279

Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527

Ellie Mroz #374

 

]]> 3663 no 560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/560-brad-leavitt-aft-construction-the-design-book Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt back to the show, and they are going to be discussing what your builder wants you to know. Don’t miss this motivating conversation, it will be like being a fly on the wall to an exclusive builder’s club! AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay, and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports. Show Highlights: Brad and LuAnn discuss the importance of a design book. The more a designer puts on paper, the more accountable the builder will be. As your expertise grows, so will the level of detail you deliver in your design book. When you provide a builder with an example of your design book, that enables him to sell your value to the client. Brad shares how CAD brings extra value to the design book. It’s important to reach out to non-competing designers through social media and other networking opportunities to find out how they’re doing things. Brad encourages designers to chase the next-level project. You perfect your process and refine it after each job by doing a project autopsy. LuAnn covers the benefits to attracting builders who want to work with you. Brad divulges the tips to attract the right builders to work with you. The bottom line is this is a relationship-driven industry! Connect with Brad! Brad’s Email Brad’s Website  The AFT Construction Podcast Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Pinterest (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Facebook Brad’s LinkedIn Links : Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends TODAY, July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brad’s other show: #542   Fri, 03 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book full 560 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt back to the show, and they are going to be discussing what your builder wants you to know. Don’t miss this motivating conversation, it will be like being a... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt back to the show, and they are going to be discussing what your builder wants you to know. Don’t miss this motivating conversation, it will be like being a fly on the wall to an exclusive builder’s club! AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay, and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports. Show Highlights: Brad and LuAnn discuss the importance of a design book. The more a designer puts on paper, the more accountable the builder will be. As your expertise grows, so will the level of detail you deliver in your design book. When you provide a builder with an example of your design book, that enables him to sell your value to the client. Brad shares how CAD brings extra value to the design book. It’s important to reach out to non-competing designers through social media and other networking opportunities to find out how they’re doing things. Brad encourages designers to chase the next-level project. You perfect your process and refine it after each job by doing a project autopsy. LuAnn covers the benefits to attracting builders who want to work with you. Brad divulges the tips to attract the right builders to work with you. The bottom line is this is a relationship-driven industry! Connect with Brad! Brad’s Email Brad’s Website  The AFT Construction Podcast Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Pinterest (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Facebook Brad’s LinkedIn Links : Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall! With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors Get on the Email List HERE! 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends TODAY, July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brad’s other show: #542   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt back to the show, and they are going to be discussing what your builder wants you to know. Don’t miss this motivating conversation, it will be like being a fly on the wall to an exclusive builder’s club!

AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay, and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley.

His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science, and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports.

Show Highlights:

  • Brad and LuAnn discuss the importance of a design book.
  • The more a designer puts on paper, the more accountable the builder will be.
  • As your expertise grows, so will the level of detail you deliver in your design book.
  • When you provide a builder with an example of your design book, that enables him to sell your value to the client.
  • Brad shares how CAD brings extra value to the design book.
  • It’s important to reach out to non-competing designers through social media and other networking opportunities to find out how they’re doing things.
  • Brad encourages designers to chase the next-level project. You perfect your process and refine it after each job by doing a project autopsy.
  • LuAnn covers the benefits to attracting builders who want to work with you.
  • Brad divulges the tips to attract the right builders to work with you.
  • The bottom line is this is a relationship-driven industry!

Connect with Brad!

Brad’s Email

Brad’s Website 

The AFT Construction Podcast

Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Pinterest (AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Facebook

Brad’s LinkedIn

Links :

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends TODAY, July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to include in show notes:

Brad’s other show: #542

 

]]> 3165 no 559: What Would Lu Do? Adjusting to Changes & Lost Business Due to Covid-19 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/559-what-would-lu-do-adjusting-to-changes-lost-business-due-to-covid-19 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Angela in Pennsylvania. Angela has 20 years of experience in design but considers herself somewhat of a baby designer since she only opened her own business two years ago. The Covid-19 event has had a huge impact on her virtual close rate, and she’s needing some guidance. Listen in to hear more about the dilemma that Angela faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details of Angela’s dilemma: Angela has resisted switching her business model and has picked up a few clients virtually, for which she receives a small deposit. She presents them with a slide presentation with fabrics delivered via mail, and the clients love what they see. When the client sees the invoice, however, they offer various excuses to back out. Angela’s close rate prior to Covid-19 was about 90%; now it’s around 10%. Here are some of LuAnn’s suggestions for Angela: Think outside the box! It’s very helpful to have an automatic salary withdrawal for yourself every week, even if it’s small. When you know you have to make money, somehow you do it. Since Angela is having a hard time closing full-service projects, perhaps she should consider adjusting her business model, after all. Angela could lean into a temporary consultancy model, as there have been other designers who have had great success with this. Don’t mail out the presentation unless the fee is paid up front. A 90% close rate means prices are too low. Get real and examine the entire process from beginning to end with the client to discover the reason why they are backing out of their deals. What signs were missed or ignored along the way? In wrapping up, LuAnn encourages Angela to go back and think about her “why”. If Angela truly loves being self-employed, she should stay the course and keep perfecting her process, because this will increase her confidence which will, in turn, increase her profits. Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned: Duncan Blair #301 WWLD #541   Thu, 02 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? Adjusting to Changes & Lost Business Due to Covid-19 full 559 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Angela in Pennsylvania. Angela has 20 years of experience... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Angela in Pennsylvania. Angela has 20 years of experience in design but considers herself somewhat of a baby designer since she only opened her own business two years ago. The Covid-19 event has had a huge impact on her virtual close rate, and she’s needing some guidance. Listen in to hear more about the dilemma that Angela faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details of Angela’s dilemma: Angela has resisted switching her business model and has picked up a few clients virtually, for which she receives a small deposit. She presents them with a slide presentation with fabrics delivered via mail, and the clients love what they see. When the client sees the invoice, however, they offer various excuses to back out. Angela’s close rate prior to Covid-19 was about 90%; now it’s around 10%. Here are some of LuAnn’s suggestions for Angela: Think outside the box! It’s very helpful to have an automatic salary withdrawal for yourself every week, even if it’s small. When you know you have to make money, somehow you do it. Since Angela is having a hard time closing full-service projects, perhaps she should consider adjusting her business model, after all. Angela could lean into a temporary consultancy model, as there have been other designers who have had great success with this. Don’t mail out the presentation unless the fee is paid up front. A 90% close rate means prices are too low. Get real and examine the entire process from beginning to end with the client to discover the reason why they are backing out of their deals. What signs were missed or ignored along the way? In wrapping up, LuAnn encourages Angela to go back and think about her “why”. If Angela truly loves being self-employed, she should stay the course and keep perfecting her process, because this will increase her confidence which will, in turn, increase her profits. Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Price: $129 Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned: Duncan Blair #301 WWLD #541   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Angela in Pennsylvania. Angela has 20 years of experience in design but considers herself somewhat of a baby designer since she only opened her own business two years ago. The Covid-19 event has had a huge impact on her virtual close rate, and she’s needing some guidance.

Listen in to hear more about the dilemma that Angela faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details of Angela’s dilemma:
  • Angela has resisted switching her business model and has picked up a few clients virtually, for which she receives a small deposit.
  • She presents them with a slide presentation with fabrics delivered via mail, and the clients love what they see.
  • When the client sees the invoice, however, they offer various excuses to back out.
  • Angela’s close rate prior to Covid-19 was about 90%; now it’s around 10%.
  • Here are some of LuAnn’s suggestions for Angela:
  • Think outside the box!
  • It’s very helpful to have an automatic salary withdrawal for yourself every week, even if it’s small. When you know you have to make money, somehow you do it.
  • Since Angela is having a hard time closing full-service projects, perhaps she should consider adjusting her business model, after all. Angela could lean into a temporary consultancy model, as there have been other designers who have had great success with this.
  • Don’t mail out the presentation unless the fee is paid up front.
  • A 90% close rate means prices are too low.
  • Get real and examine the entire process from beginning to end with the client to discover the reason why they are backing out of their deals. What signs were missed or ignored along the way?
  • In wrapping up, LuAnn encourages Angela to go back and think about her “why”. If Angela truly loves being self-employed, she should stay the course and keep perfecting her process, because this will increase her confidence which will, in turn, increase her profits.

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned:

Duncan Blair #301

WWLD #541

 

]]> 1704 no 558: Rebecca Robinson: Provide Value & Create Relationships with Contractors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/558-rebecca-robinson-provide-value-create-relationships-with-contractors Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn chats with Rebecca Robinson from Monarch Lane Interiors. Rebecca is one of the leading home renovation experts in Tennessee, and she’ll be sharing how she explains her value to contractors and builders and how this results in a full pipeline for her and her firm. You’ll also hear how Mydoma Studio makes this process even easier for her to pitch to contractors and easier for her to effectively manage the projects once she lands them. Don’t miss this conversation! Monarch Lane Interiors is a Full Service Interior Design firm by Rebecca Robinson. With 20 years of experience remodeling the homes, offices, and commercial Studios of successful professionals around Nashville and surrounding counties. Rebecca is involved in every aspect of remodeling from drawing floor plans to color and selections to managing contractors and overseeing the design and construction details. A customer relationship specialist, Rebecca has formed lasting friendships with her clients, helping some with multiple homes and projects. Her clients describe her as passionate, positive, and a problem solver. Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Design, Rebecca holds the certification of Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer-AKBD. She knows the industry guidelines and codes to keep your home’s best interests in mind. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association -NKBA, the longest and largest established design organization. Also an Allied Member of ASID- American Society of Interior Designers. Rebecca graduated from O’More College of Design with a Bachelor’s in Interior Design.  Rebecca launched her design firm in 2006 after working several years managing a team of designers at a local furniture retailer. It is there that she gained the knowledge of flooring, furniture construction, and textiles, as well as managing store operations, client budgets, and organizing the delivery and warehouse team. Her experience designing Model homes also gave her the eye for staging and furniture and accessories. A long-term resident of Nashville, Rebecca knows the area, along with real estate and design trends to enhance the home’s value. Show Highlights: Rebecca shares how she saw the need to work on the contractor / designer relationship. Here are some reasons why contractors don’t like to work with designers. Rebecca details a private package she ended up creating that contractors can buy as a gift to their clients. Mydoma Studio allows clients and contractors to log in to a project that you’re working on, and Rebecca sits down and shows them how to use the website. The client has the option to purchase additional design work when their initial gifted time has been used. LuAnn and Rebecca covers some of the ways that Mydoma Studio makes communicating and managing a project so much easier. How Rebecca reaches out to contractors that she does not personally know. “When I present to a contractor, I don’t just tell them all these things. I actually bring my laptop and show them Mydoma. Every single time.” Rebecca Rebecca addresses the rebranding of her business in 2019 and all the changes that accompanied it. Sometimes you just have to jump into your fear and go for it! LuAnn imparts some wise words about making mistakes. Business retreats are powerful and can bring great results! Do you want harmony in your business? Check out Rebecca’s Designer Notes Retreat. Connect with Rebecca! Rebecca’s Website FREE Download! The Interior Designer's Guide to Working with Contractors Designer Notes Retreat Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th Full Price: $129 effective July 1st Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Other shows mentioned to link: Brad Leavitt #542 John Dupra Revel Woods #329 Allie Finkel #452 Sarah Daniele #91, #177, #555 Fred Berns #337, #393, #460 Dixie Willard #272 Christie Leu #182 Darci Hether #220 Lisa Escobar #258 Krystle Pickens #543   Tue, 30 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Rebecca Robinson: Provide Value & Create Relationships with Contractors full 558 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn chats with Rebecca Robinson from Monarch Lane Interiors. Rebecca is one of the leading home renovation experts in Tennessee, and she’ll be sharing how she explains her value to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn chats with Rebecca Robinson from Monarch Lane Interiors. Rebecca is one of the leading home renovation experts in Tennessee, and she’ll be sharing how she explains her value to contractors and builders and how this results in a full pipeline for her and her firm. You’ll also hear how Mydoma Studio makes this process even easier for her to pitch to contractors and easier for her to effectively manage the projects once she lands them. Don’t miss this conversation! Monarch Lane Interiors is a Full Service Interior Design firm by Rebecca Robinson. With 20 years of experience remodeling the homes, offices, and commercial Studios of successful professionals around Nashville and surrounding counties. Rebecca is involved in every aspect of remodeling from drawing floor plans to color and selections to managing contractors and overseeing the design and construction details. A customer relationship specialist, Rebecca has formed lasting friendships with her clients, helping some with multiple homes and projects. Her clients describe her as passionate, positive, and a problem solver. Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Design, Rebecca holds the certification of Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer-AKBD. She knows the industry guidelines and codes to keep your home’s best interests in mind. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association -NKBA, the longest and largest established design organization. Also an Allied Member of ASID- American Society of Interior Designers. Rebecca graduated from O’More College of Design with a Bachelor’s in Interior Design.  Rebecca launched her design firm in 2006 after working several years managing a team of designers at a local furniture retailer. It is there that she gained the knowledge of flooring, furniture construction, and textiles, as well as managing store operations, client budgets, and organizing the delivery and warehouse team. Her experience designing Model homes also gave her the eye for staging and furniture and accessories. A long-term resident of Nashville, Rebecca knows the area, along with real estate and design trends to enhance the home’s value. Show Highlights: Rebecca shares how she saw the need to work on the contractor / designer relationship. Here are some reasons why contractors don’t like to work with designers. Rebecca details a private package she ended up creating that contractors can buy as a gift to their clients. Mydoma Studio allows clients and contractors to log in to a project that you’re working on, and Rebecca sits down and shows them how to use the website. The client has the option to purchase additional design work when their initial gifted time has been used. LuAnn and Rebecca covers some of the ways that Mydoma Studio makes communicating and managing a project so much easier. How Rebecca reaches out to contractors that she does not personally know. “When I present to a contractor, I don’t just tell them all these things. I actually bring my laptop and show them Mydoma. Every single time.” Rebecca Rebecca addresses the rebranding of her business in 2019 and all the changes that accompanied it. Sometimes you just have to jump into your fear and go for it! LuAnn imparts some wise words about making mistakes. Business retreats are powerful and can bring great results! Do you want harmony in your business? Check out Rebecca’s Designer Notes Retreat. Connect with Rebecca! Rebecca’s Website FREE Download! The Interior Designer's Guide to Working with Contractors Designer Notes Retreat Links : 19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio July 15th, 2020 Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th Full Price: $129 effective July 1st Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! Mydoma Studio A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Other shows mentioned to link: Brad Leavitt #542 John Dupra Revel Woods #329 Allie Finkel #452 Sarah Daniele #91, #177, #555 Fred Berns #337, #393, #460 Dixie Willard #272 Christie Leu #182 Darci Hether #220 Lisa Escobar #258 Krystle Pickens #543   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn chats with Rebecca Robinson from Monarch Lane Interiors. Rebecca is one of the leading home renovation experts in Tennessee, and she’ll be sharing how she explains her value to contractors and builders and how this results in a full pipeline for her and her firm. You’ll also hear how Mydoma Studio makes this process even easier for her to pitch to contractors and easier for her to effectively manage the projects once she lands them. Don’t miss this conversation!

Monarch Lane Interiors is a Full Service Interior Design firm by Rebecca Robinson. With 20 years of experience remodeling the homes, offices, and commercial Studios of successful professionals around Nashville and surrounding counties. Rebecca is involved in every aspect of remodeling from drawing floor plans to color and selections to managing contractors and overseeing the design and construction details.

A customer relationship specialist, Rebecca has formed lasting friendships with her clients, helping some with multiple homes and projects. Her clients describe her as passionate, positive, and a problem solver.

Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Design, Rebecca holds the certification of Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer-AKBD. She knows the industry guidelines and codes to keep your home’s best interests in mind. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association -NKBA, the longest and largest established design organization. Also an Allied Member of ASID- American Society of Interior Designers. Rebecca graduated from O’More College of Design with a Bachelor’s in Interior Design. 

Rebecca launched her design firm in 2006 after working several years managing a team of designers at a local furniture retailer. It is there that she gained the knowledge of flooring, furniture construction, and textiles, as well as managing store operations, client budgets, and organizing the delivery and warehouse team. Her experience designing Model homes also gave her the eye for staging and furniture and accessories. A long-term resident of Nashville, Rebecca knows the area, along with real estate and design trends to enhance the home’s value.



Show Highlights:

  • Rebecca shares how she saw the need to work on the contractor / designer relationship.
  • Here are some reasons why contractors don’t like to work with designers.
  • Rebecca details a private package she ended up creating that contractors can buy as a gift to their clients.
  • Mydoma Studio allows clients and contractors to log in to a project that you’re working on, and Rebecca sits down and shows them how to use the website.
  • The client has the option to purchase additional design work when their initial gifted time has been used.
  • LuAnn and Rebecca covers some of the ways that Mydoma Studio makes communicating and managing a project so much easier.
  • How Rebecca reaches out to contractors that she does not personally know.
  • “When I present to a contractor, I don’t just tell them all these things. I actually bring my laptop and show them Mydoma. Every single time.” Rebecca
  • Rebecca addresses the rebranding of her business in 2019 and all the changes that accompanied it.
  • Sometimes you just have to jump into your fear and go for it!
  • LuAnn imparts some wise words about making mistakes.
  • Business retreats are powerful and can bring great results! Do you want harmony in your business? Check out Rebecca’s Designer Notes Retreat.

Connect with Rebecca!

Rebecca’s Website

FREE Download! The Interior Designer's Guide to Working with Contractors

Designer Notes Retreat

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th

Full Price: $129 effective July 1st

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

Mydoma Studio A Well Designed Business

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Other shows mentioned to link:

Brad Leavitt #542

John Dupra Revel Woods #329

Allie Finkel #452

Sarah Daniele #91, #177, #555

Fred Berns #337, #393, #460

Dixie Willard #272

Christie Leu #182

Darci Hether #220

Lisa Escobar #258

Krystle Pickens #543

 

]]> 3955 no 557: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/557-power-talk-friday-desi-creswell-develop-your-ceo-mindset Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Desi Creswell joins LuAnn in a conversation today about breaking old habits and how to think about the same things in new ways. You’ll hear about how important it is to get real about your life by setting goals and expectations that serve you in totality so that you can run both your life and your business in sustainable ways. Get ready for some fantastic a-ha moments! Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally achieve next-level success with more freedom and fulfillment. An awarding-winning interior designer who has worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice, Desi is uniquely equipped to empower her clients with an essential blend of industry specific expertise and mindset coaching. Her passion is to help designers build thriving businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole. Desi will be one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s next book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume II. Show Highlights: Desi explains that many designers are solopreneurs and wear both the CEO and the technician hats. The CEO is responsible for the vision of the business. Many designers spend too much time as technicians and not enough time developing their capacity to run the business as CEO. If this happens, a designer basically becomes a glorified assistant for their own business. You can’t afford to NOT take the time to get intentional about where you’re headed. How is your business serving your life? Desi covers CEO tasks and questions for consideration. Develop a strategy and be intentional about the way you’re spending your time. Think about what is possible, and make sure your life goals and business goals support each other. “The intention of growing your business and setting big goals for yourself is not just about the results, it is about the person you get to become once that goal is realized.” - Desi Be aware of places you might stumble! Desi and LuAnn share a plethora of tips, tricks, and strategies to get you on your way to honoring commitments to yourself as you grow your life and your business by developing your CEO mindset. Connect with Desi! Desi’s Website Desi’s Instagram Desi’s Email Schedule Mini Session HERE The Interior Designer’s Get It Done Daily Planner - FREE Download HERE Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned Desi Creswell #475 Madeleine MacRae #315, 283 Amber Dawn #478 Krystle Pickens #543 Nicole Cole #509 Amber De La Garza #385 Sara Lynn Brennan #463, 514, 524 Duncan Blair #301   Fri, 26 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Develop Your CEO Mindset full 557 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Desi Creswell joins LuAnn in a conversation today about breaking old habits and how to think about the same things in new ways. You’ll hear about how important it is to get real about... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Desi Creswell joins LuAnn in a conversation today about breaking old habits and how to think about the same things in new ways. You’ll hear about how important it is to get real about your life by setting goals and expectations that serve you in totality so that you can run both your life and your business in sustainable ways. Get ready for some fantastic a-ha moments! Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally achieve next-level success with more freedom and fulfillment. An awarding-winning interior designer who has worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice, Desi is uniquely equipped to empower her clients with an essential blend of industry specific expertise and mindset coaching. Her passion is to help designers build thriving businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole. Desi will be one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s next book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume II. Show Highlights: Desi explains that many designers are solopreneurs and wear both the CEO and the technician hats. The CEO is responsible for the vision of the business. Many designers spend too much time as technicians and not enough time developing their capacity to run the business as CEO. If this happens, a designer basically becomes a glorified assistant for their own business. You can’t afford to NOT take the time to get intentional about where you’re headed. How is your business serving your life? Desi covers CEO tasks and questions for consideration. Develop a strategy and be intentional about the way you’re spending your time. Think about what is possible, and make sure your life goals and business goals support each other. “The intention of growing your business and setting big goals for yourself is not just about the results, it is about the person you get to become once that goal is realized.” - Desi Be aware of places you might stumble! Desi and LuAnn share a plethora of tips, tricks, and strategies to get you on your way to honoring commitments to yourself as you grow your life and your business by developing your CEO mindset. Connect with Desi! Desi’s Website Desi’s Instagram Desi’s Email Schedule Mini Session HERE The Interior Designer’s Get It Done Daily Planner - FREE Download HERE Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program? Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other shows mentioned Desi Creswell #475 Madeleine MacRae #315, 283 Amber Dawn #478 Krystle Pickens #543 Nicole Cole #509 Amber De La Garza #385 Sara Lynn Brennan #463, 514, 524 Duncan Blair #301   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Desi Creswell joins LuAnn in a conversation today about breaking old habits and how to think about the same things in new ways. You’ll hear about how important it is to get real about your life by setting goals and expectations that serve you in totality so that you can run both your life and your business in sustainable ways. Get ready for some fantastic a-ha moments!

Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally achieve next-level success with more freedom and fulfillment. An awarding-winning interior designer who has worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice, Desi is uniquely equipped to empower her clients with an essential blend of industry specific expertise and mindset coaching. Her passion is to help designers build thriving businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole.

Desi will be one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s next book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume II.

Show Highlights:

  • Desi explains that many designers are solopreneurs and wear both the CEO and the technician hats.
  • The CEO is responsible for the vision of the business.
  • Many designers spend too much time as technicians and not enough time developing their capacity to run the business as CEO.
  • If this happens, a designer basically becomes a glorified assistant for their own business.
  • You can’t afford to NOT take the time to get intentional about where you’re headed.
  • How is your business serving your life?
  • Desi covers CEO tasks and questions for consideration.
  • Develop a strategy and be intentional about the way you’re spending your time.
  • Think about what is possible, and make sure your life goals and business goals support each other.
  • “The intention of growing your business and setting big goals for yourself is not just about the results, it is about the person you get to become once that goal is realized.” - Desi
  • Be aware of places you might stumble!
  • Desi and LuAnn share a plethora of tips, tricks, and strategies to get you on your way to honoring commitments to yourself as you grow your life and your business by developing your CEO mindset.

Connect with Desi!

Desi’s Website

Desi’s Instagram

Desi’s Email

Schedule Mini Session HERE

The Interior Designer’s Get It Done Daily Planner - FREE Download HERE

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned

Desi Creswell #475

Madeleine MacRae #315, 283

Amber Dawn #478

Krystle Pickens #543

Nicole Cole #509

Amber De La Garza #385

Sara Lynn Brennan #463, 514, 524

Duncan Blair #301

 

]]> 4462 no 556: Kae Whitaker: #BLM Grace For Lack Of Understanding, Grace for Anger http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/556-kae-whitaker-blm-grace-for-lack-of-understanding-grace-for-anger Kae is a Digital Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping service providers create automated marketing systems that close the gap in leads lost, enhance their sales processes, and keep customers returning bringing their friends. Kae’s philosophy is it takes the right strategy coupled with the proper tools to execute a well thought out plan.  She takes a tailored approach to helping her clients satisfy their online revenue goals, by paying attention to the unique needs, audience and capacity of each business, and creating strategies that are beneficial for not only the customers but the companies as well. She would love the opportunity to speak with you about your digital marketing goals and how she can help.  Kae offers complimentary calls to talk through your needs and see how she can best help you meet your goals. Connect with Kae! Kae’s Website Kae’s Instagram Kae’s Facebook Kae’s Twitter Kae’s Pinterest Kae’s Email Oprah Show on YouTube: Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 1) Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 2) Book: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends Other shows mentioned Corey Damen Jenkins #549 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274   Thu, 25 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Kae Whitaker: #BLM Grace For Lack Of Understanding, Grace for Anger full 556 LuAnn Nigara Kae is a Digital Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping service providers create automated marketing systems that close the gap in leads lost, enhance their sales processes, and keep customers returning bringing their friends. Kae’s... Kae is a Digital Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping service providers create automated marketing systems that close the gap in leads lost, enhance their sales processes, and keep customers returning bringing their friends. Kae’s philosophy is it takes the right strategy coupled with the proper tools to execute a well thought out plan.  She takes a tailored approach to helping her clients satisfy their online revenue goals, by paying attention to the unique needs, audience and capacity of each business, and creating strategies that are beneficial for not only the customers but the companies as well. She would love the opportunity to speak with you about your digital marketing goals and how she can help.  Kae offers complimentary calls to talk through your needs and see how she can best help you meet your goals. Connect with Kae! Kae’s Website Kae’s Instagram Kae’s Facebook Kae’s Twitter Kae’s Pinterest Kae’s Email Oprah Show on YouTube: Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 1) Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 2) Book: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends Other shows mentioned Corey Damen Jenkins #549 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274   Kae is a Digital Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping service providers create automated marketing systems that close the gap in leads lost, enhance their sales processes, and keep customers returning bringing their friends.

Kae’s philosophy is it takes the right strategy coupled with the proper tools to execute a well thought out plan.  She takes a tailored approach to helping her clients satisfy their online revenue goals, by paying attention to the unique needs, audience and capacity of each business, and creating strategies that are beneficial for not only the customers but the companies as well.

She would love the opportunity to speak with you about your digital marketing goals and how she can help.  Kae offers complimentary calls to talk through your needs and see how she can best help you meet your goals.

Connect with Kae!

Kae’s Website

Kae’s Instagram

Kae’s Facebook

Kae’s Twitter

Kae’s Pinterest

Kae’s Email

Oprah Show on YouTube:

Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 1)

Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 2)

Book:

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends

Other shows mentioned

Corey Damen Jenkins #549

Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274

 

]]> 4210 no 555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/555-sarah-daniele-19h-the-blueprint-create-resiliency-in-your-business Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest on today’s show is her good friend, Sara Daniele, the founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio also happens to be the second-longest standing sponsor of this podcast! Don’t miss their conversation because you’ll want to hear all of the exciting details about Mydoma Studio’s 19H The Blueprint workshop that is coming up in July. This course will help design professionals, like you, build resilience into your business, no matter what crisis comes your way. Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, and Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast.  Show Highlights: The 19Hours digital conference replaced High Point in April. The upcoming 19H The Blueprint will take place July 15th, 2020! You didn’t have to attend April’s conference to get benefits from the new workshop. Sarah shares how this newest course has come about. Sarah is an interior designer who happens to also run and operate a software company. LuAnn kicks off the workshop at 10:30am EST! A comprehensive recording will be sent to all attendees within 24 hours after the event. Sarah gives an overview of what to expect with each presentation of this 5-step methodology: Step 1: Learn how to target your ideal customers Step 2: Set your project up for success Step 3: Organization & Presentation Step 4: Checks & Balances Step 5: Presenting the project closeout There will be time dedicated after each session for Q&A. “This is the how. This is getting stuff done!” - Sarah This methodology teaches you how to build an adaptable process. For more information, visit 19hours The Blueprint. Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website: Mydoma Studio For more Information: 19hours The Blueprint July 15th, 2020 Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th Full Price: $129 effective July 1st Join our designer community on Facebook! Mydoma Studio Designers Email: sarah@mydomastudio.com  Links : Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Sarah Daniele #91, #177 Janelle Photopoulos #364 Wendy Woloshchuk #527  Stacey Brown Randall #93  Ashley Uhl #412 Susan Brunstrum #36   Tue, 23 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business full 555 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest on today’s show is her good friend, Sara Daniele, the founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio also happens to be the second-longest standing sponsor of this podcast! Don’t miss their... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest on today’s show is her good friend, Sara Daniele, the founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio also happens to be the second-longest standing sponsor of this podcast! Don’t miss their conversation because you’ll want to hear all of the exciting details about Mydoma Studio’s 19H The Blueprint workshop that is coming up in July. This course will help design professionals, like you, build resilience into your business, no matter what crisis comes your way. Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, and Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast.  Show Highlights: The 19Hours digital conference replaced High Point in April. The upcoming 19H The Blueprint will take place July 15th, 2020! You didn’t have to attend April’s conference to get benefits from the new workshop. Sarah shares how this newest course has come about. Sarah is an interior designer who happens to also run and operate a software company. LuAnn kicks off the workshop at 10:30am EST! A comprehensive recording will be sent to all attendees within 24 hours after the event. Sarah gives an overview of what to expect with each presentation of this 5-step methodology: Step 1: Learn how to target your ideal customers Step 2: Set your project up for success Step 3: Organization & Presentation Step 4: Checks & Balances Step 5: Presenting the project closeout There will be time dedicated after each session for Q&A. “This is the how. This is getting stuff done!” - Sarah This methodology teaches you how to build an adaptable process. For more information, visit 19hours The Blueprint. Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website: Mydoma Studio For more Information: 19hours The Blueprint July 15th, 2020 Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th Full Price: $129 effective July 1st Join our designer community on Facebook! Mydoma Studio Designers Email: sarah@mydomastudio.com  Links : Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM Sarah Daniele #91, #177 Janelle Photopoulos #364 Wendy Woloshchuk #527  Stacey Brown Randall #93  Ashley Uhl #412 Susan Brunstrum #36   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest on today’s show is her good friend, Sara Daniele, the founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio also happens to be the second-longest standing sponsor of this podcast!

Don’t miss their conversation because you’ll want to hear all of the exciting details about Mydoma Studio’s 19H The Blueprint workshop that is coming up in July. This course will help design professionals, like you, build resilience into your business, no matter what crisis comes your way.

Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, and Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. 

Show Highlights:

  • The 19Hours digital conference replaced High Point in April.
  • The upcoming 19H The Blueprint will take place July 15th, 2020!
  • You didn’t have to attend April’s conference to get benefits from the new workshop.
  • Sarah shares how this newest course has come about.
  • Sarah is an interior designer who happens to also run and operate a software company.
  • LuAnn kicks off the workshop at 10:30am EST!
  • A comprehensive recording will be sent to all attendees within 24 hours after the event.
  • Sarah gives an overview of what to expect with each presentation of this 5-step methodology:
  • Step 1: Learn how to target your ideal customers
  • Step 2: Set your project up for success
  • Step 3: Organization & Presentation
  • Step 4: Checks & Balances
  • Step 5: Presenting the project closeout
  • There will be time dedicated after each session for Q&A.
  • “This is the how. This is getting stuff done!” - Sarah
  • This methodology teaches you how to build an adaptable process.
  • For more information, visit 19hours The Blueprint.

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Website: Mydoma Studio

For more Information: 19hours The Blueprint

July 15th, 2020

Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th

Full Price: $129 effective July 1st

Join our designer community on Facebook! Mydoma Studio Designers

Email: sarah@mydomastudio.com 

Links :

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Sarah Daniele #91, #177

Janelle Photopoulos #364

Wendy Woloshchuk #527 

Stacey Brown Randall #93 

Ashley Uhl #412

Susan Brunstrum #36

 

]]> 3425 no 554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/554-power-talk-friday-traci-connell-buy-wholesale-for-profit Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday and LuAnn is pleased to have her good friend, Traci Connell, joining her to talk about their newest venture, the Buy Wholesale for Profit program. Listen in as they give you a sneak-peek of The 6 Steps to Making Maximum Profit through Buying Wholesale! Traci Connell is an inviting, engaging, and approachable mentor who has overcome personal setbacks to build the business of her dreams - a multi-million dollar interior design business that she grew and scaled while navigating single-motherhood in the wake of immense tragedy. Traci is an expert in delivering unique design with ease of mind. She says: “What good is a luxurious home if you can’t actually live in it?” That philosophy drives her to provide high-end interior design that really lasts for every one of her clients. From initial to final details, each project is outlined through a state-of-the-art project management system, streamlining the process and enhancing the client experience. Over the years, Traci has been recognized with numerous local and national awards and publications in the interior design industry as well as many accolades within the business community. She recently launched her coaching and consulting business to teach other designers and female entrepreneurs how to get unstuck and scale their businesses just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others. Show Highlights: Traci shares the story of how she decided to grow and scale, and how she developed this information into a proven program. Traci relates the benefits to designers who follow her course. The Buy Wholesale for Profit modules that Traci details are: Pivoting Your Business Mindset - The differences between consultancy and furnishings business models, the procurement timeline, and the advantages of wholesale margins vs. retail. Plus: Traci’s Furniture Revenue Forecasting Tool to project past a NET income of $100k. Developing a Buying Co-op - The characteristics of successful partners, the desired strengths, and red flags. Plus: Traci’s Business Formation Checklist and template to develop and organizational chart for partnership success. Outreach to Vendors/Manufacturers - How to develop a list of target vendors, and how to communicate your value to vendors. Plus: Traci’s cheat sheet of preferred manufacturers and tip sheet for communicating with vendors. Pricing Your Furnishings and Design Fees - Your pricing sweet spot, how to convince clients to buy, and how to develop a budget. Plus: Traci’s preferred method for developing a design fee and furnishings budget. Processes and Systems for Expansion - The tools of a successful reseller, which project management software should you use, and the timeline from presentation to installation. Plus: Traci’s Top Tip Sheet for considering a receiving warehouse and a no-fail project timeline template. Wrap-Up - During this module, Traci answers lingering questions, helps you put all of this information together, and helps you decide on a clear path forward. You still have to look at the local artisans and support the showrooms in your area! Please visit the website for more details and information about the deliverables built into this course, which include a private FB specifically for the attendees of the course. You can ask Traci questions between sessions and connect with each other for support and help! All of the sessions are recorded and you will have lifetime access to them to watch, in case you miss a session or if you want to re-visit them at any point in the future. “When we don’t have the confidence, it’s because we don’t have the tools behind us to lean on.” Traci Connell Connect with Traci! Traci’s Email  Traci’s Coaching Website Traci’s Interiors Website Traci’s Instagram Traci’s Facebook Traci’s Pinterest Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10 Kravet Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Traci's original appearance on the show #525 Other shows mentioned:  Terri Taylor #548 Dina Holland #354   Fri, 19 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit full 554 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday and LuAnn is pleased to have her good friend, Traci Connell, joining her to talk about their newest venture, the Buy Wholesale for Profit program. Listen in as they give you a sneak-peek of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday and LuAnn is pleased to have her good friend, Traci Connell, joining her to talk about their newest venture, the Buy Wholesale for Profit program. Listen in as they give you a sneak-peek of The 6 Steps to Making Maximum Profit through Buying Wholesale! Traci Connell is an inviting, engaging, and approachable mentor who has overcome personal setbacks to build the business of her dreams - a multi-million dollar interior design business that she grew and scaled while navigating single-motherhood in the wake of immense tragedy. Traci is an expert in delivering unique design with ease of mind. She says: “What good is a luxurious home if you can’t actually live in it?” That philosophy drives her to provide high-end interior design that really lasts for every one of her clients. From initial to final details, each project is outlined through a state-of-the-art project management system, streamlining the process and enhancing the client experience. Over the years, Traci has been recognized with numerous local and national awards and publications in the interior design industry as well as many accolades within the business community. She recently launched her coaching and consulting business to teach other designers and female entrepreneurs how to get unstuck and scale their businesses just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others. Show Highlights: Traci shares the story of how she decided to grow and scale, and how she developed this information into a proven program. Traci relates the benefits to designers who follow her course. The Buy Wholesale for Profit modules that Traci details are: Pivoting Your Business Mindset - The differences between consultancy and furnishings business models, the procurement timeline, and the advantages of wholesale margins vs. retail. Plus: Traci’s Furniture Revenue Forecasting Tool to project past a NET income of $100k. Developing a Buying Co-op - The characteristics of successful partners, the desired strengths, and red flags. Plus: Traci’s Business Formation Checklist and template to develop and organizational chart for partnership success. Outreach to Vendors/Manufacturers - How to develop a list of target vendors, and how to communicate your value to vendors. Plus: Traci’s cheat sheet of preferred manufacturers and tip sheet for communicating with vendors. Pricing Your Furnishings and Design Fees - Your pricing sweet spot, how to convince clients to buy, and how to develop a budget. Plus: Traci’s preferred method for developing a design fee and furnishings budget. Processes and Systems for Expansion - The tools of a successful reseller, which project management software should you use, and the timeline from presentation to installation. Plus: Traci’s Top Tip Sheet for considering a receiving warehouse and a no-fail project timeline template. Wrap-Up - During this module, Traci answers lingering questions, helps you put all of this information together, and helps you decide on a clear path forward. You still have to look at the local artisans and support the showrooms in your area! Please visit the website for more details and information about the deliverables built into this course, which include a private FB specifically for the attendees of the course. You can ask Traci questions between sessions and connect with each other for support and help! All of the sessions are recorded and you will have lifetime access to them to watch, in case you miss a session or if you want to re-visit them at any point in the future. “When we don’t have the confidence, it’s because we don’t have the tools behind us to lean on.” Traci Connell Connect with Traci! Traci’s Email  Traci’s Coaching Website Traci’s Interiors Website Traci’s Instagram Traci’s Facebook Traci’s Pinterest Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10 Kravet Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Traci's original appearance on the show #525 Other shows mentioned:  Terri Taylor #548 Dina Holland #354   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday and LuAnn is pleased to have her good friend, Traci Connell, joining her to talk about their newest venture, the Buy Wholesale for Profit program.

Listen in as they give you a sneak-peek of The 6 Steps to Making Maximum Profit through Buying Wholesale!

Traci Connell is an inviting, engaging, and approachable mentor who has overcome personal setbacks to build the business of her dreams - a multi-million dollar interior design business that she grew and scaled while navigating single-motherhood in the wake of immense tragedy. Traci is an expert in delivering unique design with ease of mind. She says: “What good is a luxurious home if you can’t actually live in it?” That philosophy drives her to provide high-end interior design that really lasts for every one of her clients. From initial to final details, each project is outlined through a state-of-the-art project management system, streamlining the process and enhancing the client experience. Over the years, Traci has been recognized with numerous local and national awards and publications in the interior design industry as well as many accolades within the business community. She recently launched her coaching and consulting business to teach other designers and female entrepreneurs how to get unstuck and scale their businesses just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others.

Show Highlights:

  • Traci shares the story of how she decided to grow and scale, and how she developed this information into a proven program.
  • Traci relates the benefits to designers who follow her course.
  • The Buy Wholesale for Profit modules that Traci details are:
  • Pivoting Your Business Mindset - The differences between consultancy and furnishings business models, the procurement timeline, and the advantages of wholesale margins vs. retail. Plus: Traci’s Furniture Revenue Forecasting Tool to project past a NET income of $100k.
  • Developing a Buying Co-op - The characteristics of successful partners, the desired strengths, and red flags. Plus: Traci’s Business Formation Checklist and template to develop and organizational chart for partnership success.
  • Outreach to Vendors/Manufacturers - How to develop a list of target vendors, and how to communicate your value to vendors. Plus: Traci’s cheat sheet of preferred manufacturers and tip sheet for communicating with vendors.
  • Pricing Your Furnishings and Design Fees - Your pricing sweet spot, how to convince clients to buy, and how to develop a budget. Plus: Traci’s preferred method for developing a design fee and furnishings budget.
  • Processes and Systems for Expansion - The tools of a successful reseller, which project management software should you use, and the timeline from presentation to installation. Plus: Traci’s Top Tip Sheet for considering a receiving warehouse and a no-fail project timeline template.
  • Wrap-Up - During this module, Traci answers lingering questions, helps you put all of this information together, and helps you decide on a clear path forward.
  • You still have to look at the local artisans and support the showrooms in your area!
  • Please visit the website for more details and information about the deliverables built into this course, which include a private FB specifically for the attendees of the course. You can ask Traci questions between sessions and connect with each other for support and help!
  • All of the sessions are recorded and you will have lifetime access to them to watch, in case you miss a session or if you want to re-visit them at any point in the future.
  • “When we don’t have the confidence, it’s because we don’t have the tools behind us to lean on.” Traci Connell

Connect with Traci!

Traci’s Email 

Traci’s Coaching Website

Traci’s Interiors Website

Traci’s Instagram

Traci’s Facebook

Traci’s Pinterest

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim!

Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10

Kravet

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Traci's original appearance on the show #525

Other shows mentioned: 

Terri Taylor #548

Dina Holland #354

 

]]> 3688 no 553: What Would Lu Do? When Clients Don't Understand the Value of Full Service Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/553-what-would-lu-do-when-clients-dont-understand-the-value-of-full-service-design Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Leslie, a designer that LuAnn happened to meet last winter in Chicago at the Power House Luxury Conference. Leslie is struggling to educate customers who walk into her hybrid full-service design firm / large retail showroom and expect free design services. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details surrounding Leslie’s dilemma and identifies with the consumer education stru It is likely that your messaging is not clear if you are constantly explaining yourself, your business, and your process to people. Once you are clear, the struggle will be over. LuAnn suggests that Leslie carefully analyze all of her revenue streams, using this enlightening and motivating exercise: What was your gross revenue last year? Identify all sources of revenue: design fees, product sales from the showroom, markup on outside contracted goods and services…what others do you have if any? What is the breakdown in gross revenue by category? What is the net profit margin of each category? What one or two revenue streams do you like doing the most? Are either of your favorite ways to make money also one of your top producing streams? If the answer is no, is there a way to increase their gross revenue capacity or their gross profit margins? The 2 big things to consider from this exercise: Step 1: Get clear on where you earn the most and then move in that direction. Step 2: If the competition is zigging, you need to zag. Have a beautiful hand-out made for the furniture salespeople, designers, and customer service reps to refer to and to give out to all potential customers that come in the store. LuAnn details all the information that the hand-out might hold, such as furniture services on one side of the hand-out and full service design on the other side. Educating the team members on the two different services is very important, so that they can present the hand-out to customers and answer questions with confidence. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Starts July 22nd! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Thu, 18 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? When Clients Don't Understand the Value of Full Service Design full 553 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Leslie, a designer that LuAnn happened to meet last winter... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from Leslie, a designer that LuAnn happened to meet last winter in Chicago at the Power House Luxury Conference. Leslie is struggling to educate customers who walk into her hybrid full-service design firm / large retail showroom and expect free design services. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details surrounding Leslie’s dilemma and identifies with the consumer education stru It is likely that your messaging is not clear if you are constantly explaining yourself, your business, and your process to people. Once you are clear, the struggle will be over. LuAnn suggests that Leslie carefully analyze all of her revenue streams, using this enlightening and motivating exercise: What was your gross revenue last year? Identify all sources of revenue: design fees, product sales from the showroom, markup on outside contracted goods and services…what others do you have if any? What is the breakdown in gross revenue by category? What is the net profit margin of each category? What one or two revenue streams do you like doing the most? Are either of your favorite ways to make money also one of your top producing streams? If the answer is no, is there a way to increase their gross revenue capacity or their gross profit margins? The 2 big things to consider from this exercise: Step 1: Get clear on where you earn the most and then move in that direction. Step 2: If the competition is zigging, you need to zag. Have a beautiful hand-out made for the furniture salespeople, designers, and customer service reps to refer to and to give out to all potential customers that come in the store. LuAnn details all the information that the hand-out might hold, such as furniture services on one side of the hand-out and full service design on the other side. Educating the team members on the two different services is very important, so that they can present the hand-out to customers and answer questions with confidence. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Starts July 22nd! Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn? Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line. She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Leslie, a designer that LuAnn happened to meet last winter in Chicago at the Power House Luxury Conference. Leslie is struggling to educate customers who walk into her hybrid full-service design firm / large retail showroom and expect free design services.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details surrounding Leslie’s dilemma and identifies with the consumer education stru
  • It is likely that your messaging is not clear if you are constantly explaining yourself, your business, and your process to people. Once you are clear, the struggle will be over.
  • LuAnn suggests that Leslie carefully analyze all of her revenue streams, using this enlightening and motivating exercise:
  • What was your gross revenue last year?
  • Identify all sources of revenue: design fees, product sales from the showroom, markup on outside contracted goods and services…what others do you have if any?
  • What is the breakdown in gross revenue by category?
  • What is the net profit margin of each category?
  • What one or two revenue streams do you like doing the most?
  • Are either of your favorite ways to make money also one of your top producing streams?
  • If the answer is no, is there a way to increase their gross revenue capacity or their gross profit margins?
  • The 2 big things to consider from this exercise:
  • Step 1: Get clear on where you earn the most and then move in that direction.
  • Step 2: If the competition is zigging, you need to zag.
  • Have a beautiful hand-out made for the furniture salespeople, designers, and customer service reps to refer to and to give out to all potential customers that come in the store.
  • LuAnn details all the information that the hand-out might hold, such as furniture services on one side of the hand-out and full service design on the other side.
  • Educating the team members on the two different services is very important, so that they can present the hand-out to customers and answer questions with confidence.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Starts July 22nd!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

 

]]> 1433 no 552: Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I'm Good, Right? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/552-shirry-dolgin-i-have-a-cpa-so-im-good-right Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Shirry Dolgin. Hold on to your seat as Shirry humorously recounts her long-ago experience with a sales tax audit that was the furthest thing from funny at the time. You just might identify with the gamut of emotions that she experienced during this period and hopefully learn from her ordeal! Shirry Dolgin is a rising star in the southern California interior design community. Having established her firm, ASD Interiors INC. in 2004, Shirry has an impressive portfolio of projects, and has been featured in a variety of media outlets including multiple TV appearances. Specializing in large scale residential and commercial projects and an industry expert in construction, she has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable renovations interior designers in the industry. A native of Los Angeles and the daughter of the owner of a construction company, Shirry was exposed to the world of design at an early age. She went on to study performing arts in Boston as a dancer, then attended the prestigious Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising in L.A., first in the visual communication department, then transferring to interior design.   Shirry’s on-screen career began in 2006, when she was asked to participate in a renovation project for television. Given her background in performing arts, she was a natural. Her TV credits include a design and remodel segment on the KTLA morning show, an appearance on HGTV’s Selling L.A. and a feature of her live/work office on You Live in What? for HGTV. She has participated in several episodes of House Hunters Renovation and was a two-time winner on HGTV’s design competition show, Design Wars. ASD Interiors projects have been featured in Traditional Home and Apartment Therapy, and published in the Kitchen Bible. ASD has received the “Best of HOUZZ” in service and design for the past nine years. Show Highlights: Shirry shares the backstory that led up to the letter from the State Board of Equalization requesting a sales tax audit. Shirry was working with a CPA that didn’t reconcile her account on a monthly basis. The audit covers a 3-year period. The CPA requested that Shirry gather all of her documents, which was bewildering to an unprepared Shirry. The CPA submitted all of the information that they were able to gather. The State Board of Equalization determined that Shirry was not properly collecting sales tax and demanded a very large sum of money, which Shirry did not have. Shirry requested an appointment with the State Board of Equalization’s superior manager in order to understand how they arrived at their figures. The State Board of Equalization’s response to Shirry stunned her! You don’t know what you don’t know. Shirry shares what she learned from this meeting. “I learned more going through that audit than I did in three years of college to get a design degree.” - Shirry How do you pay back $43,000 that you do not have? LuAnn explains the “Red Pen System” that she uses at Window Works. Find out if the CPA found redemption in Shirry’s eyes post-audit! Learn to speak up when something doesn’t seem right. Your action item: Download the handbook of equalization for your particular state (.gov address). Shirry: Collects 35% across the board for Residential work. Has this “procurement fee” conversation with her clients. Shirry and LuAnn offer additional tips on collecting sales tax. Links : Shirry’s Email  Shirry’s Website Shirry’s Instagram Shirry’s Facebook Shirry’s Pinterest Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Other shows mentioned:  Cheryl Clendenon #482 Eric Ross #504, #505 Sally Williams #496 Laura Michaels #372 Dina Holland #354 Sandra Funk #520     Tue, 16 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I'm Good, Right? full 552 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Shirry Dolgin. Hold on to your seat as Shirry humorously recounts her long-ago experience with a sales tax audit that was the furthest thing from funny at the time. You just might identify... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Shirry Dolgin. Hold on to your seat as Shirry humorously recounts her long-ago experience with a sales tax audit that was the furthest thing from funny at the time. You just might identify with the gamut of emotions that she experienced during this period and hopefully learn from her ordeal! Shirry Dolgin is a rising star in the southern California interior design community. Having established her firm, ASD Interiors INC. in 2004, Shirry has an impressive portfolio of projects, and has been featured in a variety of media outlets including multiple TV appearances. Specializing in large scale residential and commercial projects and an industry expert in construction, she has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable renovations interior designers in the industry. A native of Los Angeles and the daughter of the owner of a construction company, Shirry was exposed to the world of design at an early age. She went on to study performing arts in Boston as a dancer, then attended the prestigious Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising in L.A., first in the visual communication department, then transferring to interior design.   Shirry’s on-screen career began in 2006, when she was asked to participate in a renovation project for television. Given her background in performing arts, she was a natural. Her TV credits include a design and remodel segment on the KTLA morning show, an appearance on HGTV’s Selling L.A. and a feature of her live/work office on You Live in What? for HGTV. She has participated in several episodes of House Hunters Renovation and was a two-time winner on HGTV’s design competition show, Design Wars. ASD Interiors projects have been featured in Traditional Home and Apartment Therapy, and published in the Kitchen Bible. ASD has received the “Best of HOUZZ” in service and design for the past nine years. Show Highlights: Shirry shares the backstory that led up to the letter from the State Board of Equalization requesting a sales tax audit. Shirry was working with a CPA that didn’t reconcile her account on a monthly basis. The audit covers a 3-year period. The CPA requested that Shirry gather all of her documents, which was bewildering to an unprepared Shirry. The CPA submitted all of the information that they were able to gather. The State Board of Equalization determined that Shirry was not properly collecting sales tax and demanded a very large sum of money, which Shirry did not have. Shirry requested an appointment with the State Board of Equalization’s superior manager in order to understand how they arrived at their figures. The State Board of Equalization’s response to Shirry stunned her! You don’t know what you don’t know. Shirry shares what she learned from this meeting. “I learned more going through that audit than I did in three years of college to get a design degree.” - Shirry How do you pay back $43,000 that you do not have? LuAnn explains the “Red Pen System” that she uses at Window Works. Find out if the CPA found redemption in Shirry’s eyes post-audit! Learn to speak up when something doesn’t seem right. Your action item: Download the handbook of equalization for your particular state (.gov address). Shirry: Collects 35% across the board for Residential work. Has this “procurement fee” conversation with her clients. Shirry and LuAnn offer additional tips on collecting sales tax. Links : Shirry’s Email  Shirry’s Website Shirry’s Instagram Shirry’s Facebook Shirry’s Pinterest Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Other shows mentioned:  Cheryl Clendenon #482 Eric Ross #504, #505 Sally Williams #496 Laura Michaels #372 Dina Holland #354 Sandra Funk #520     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Shirry Dolgin. Hold on to your seat as Shirry humorously recounts her long-ago experience with a sales tax audit that was the furthest thing from funny at the time. You just might identify with the gamut of emotions that she experienced during this period and hopefully learn from her ordeal!

Shirry Dolgin is a rising star in the southern California interior design community. Having established her firm, ASD Interiors INC. in 2004, Shirry has an impressive portfolio of projects, and has been featured in a variety of media outlets including multiple TV appearances. Specializing in large scale residential and commercial projects and an industry expert in construction, she has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable renovations interior designers in the industry.

A native of Los Angeles and the daughter of the owner of a construction company, Shirry was exposed to the world of design at an early age. She went on to study performing arts in Boston as a dancer, then attended the prestigious Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising in L.A., first in the visual communication department, then transferring to interior design.  

Shirry’s on-screen career began in 2006, when she was asked to participate in a renovation project for television. Given her background in performing arts, she was a natural. Her TV credits include a design and remodel segment on the KTLA morning show, an appearance on HGTV’s Selling L.A. and a feature of her live/work office on You Live in What? for HGTV. She has participated in several episodes of House Hunters Renovation and was a two-time winner on HGTV’s design competition show, Design Wars. ASD Interiors projects have been featured in Traditional Home and Apartment Therapy, and published in the Kitchen Bible. ASD has received the “Best of HOUZZ” in service and design for the past nine years.



Show Highlights:

  • Shirry shares the backstory that led up to the letter from the State Board of Equalization requesting a sales tax audit.
  • Shirry was working with a CPA that didn’t reconcile her account on a monthly basis.
  • The audit covers a 3-year period.
  • The CPA requested that Shirry gather all of her documents, which was bewildering to an unprepared Shirry.
  • The CPA submitted all of the information that they were able to gather.
  • The State Board of Equalization determined that Shirry was not properly collecting sales tax and demanded a very large sum of money, which Shirry did not have.
  • Shirry requested an appointment with the State Board of Equalization’s superior manager in order to understand how they arrived at their figures.
  • The State Board of Equalization’s response to Shirry stunned her!
  • You don’t know what you don’t know.
  • Shirry shares what she learned from this meeting.
  • “I learned more going through that audit than I did in three years of college to get a design degree.” - Shirry
  • How do you pay back $43,000 that you do not have?
  • LuAnn explains the “Red Pen System” that she uses at Window Works.
  • Find out if the CPA found redemption in Shirry’s eyes post-audit!
  • Learn to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.
  • Your action item:
  • Download the handbook of equalization for your particular state (.gov address).
  • Shirry:
  • Collects 35% across the board for Residential work.
  • Has this “procurement fee” conversation with her clients.
  • Shirry and LuAnn offer additional tips on collecting sales tax.

Links :

Shirry’s Email 

Shirry’s Website

Shirry’s Instagram

Shirry’s Facebook

Shirry’s Pinterest

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Other shows mentioned: 

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Eric Ross #504, #505

Sally Williams #496

Laura Michaels #372

Dina Holland #354

Sandra Funk #520

 

 

]]> 4627 no 551: Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/551-window-treatment-friday-exploring-awnings-as-an-additional-revenue-stream Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, explore how custom awnings can be the answer that your clients are looking for and the solution you need for your business and its profitability Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. Show Highlights: Vita discusses how she arrived at her revelation that awnings could add revenue to her bottom line. Awnings are a creative up-sell that also serves a need for your client. Awnings are particularly desirable to high value design projects right now due to COVID-19 concerns because: more families are taking “staycations” this summer. being outside is a safe way to socialize. this can be a place to “work from home”. children can sit and do their homework, read a book, or enjoy the air being safely protected from UV rays. there is a reduction in energy costs by 25%. LuAnn covers entry-level price points. Interior designers should be interested in selling awnings if they’re decorating outside spaces, anyway. Reasons why awnings are superior to pergolas. Be aware that your window treatment specialists can help you with this. What you can do now: Start speaking with your current clients about awnings and let them know that you are a resource for this. Research which window treatment and awning specialists are in your area and set up appointments. Download the Window Works guide to Awnings by going to windowworksnj.com (if you like it, let Leslie Carothers at Savour Partnership know, she would surely appreciate it!). The number one way to increase your revenue is to sell more things to your current clients. Remember that for both the short-term and long-term it is important to always create diverse revenue streams that align with your design firm. Links : Watch WTF Live Shows on FB Learn More About Working with Window Works Learn About Working with Vita Learn About Exciting Windows Learn More About Leslie Carothers & Creating a Lead Magnet for Your Business Receive a Free Subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine Attend the Virtual IWCE Learn About the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business If you loved this show, listen to these for information referenced by previous guests: Leslie Carothers / Savour Partnership: #458 Leslie Price: #413 Nancy Ganzekaufer: #256, #389 Nicole Heymer: #125, #317, #466   Fri, 12 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream full 551 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, explore how custom awnings can be the answer that your clients are looking for and the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, explore how custom awnings can be the answer that your clients are looking for and the solution you need for your business and its profitability Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. Show Highlights: Vita discusses how she arrived at her revelation that awnings could add revenue to her bottom line. Awnings are a creative up-sell that also serves a need for your client. Awnings are particularly desirable to high value design projects right now due to COVID-19 concerns because: more families are taking “staycations” this summer. being outside is a safe way to socialize. this can be a place to “work from home”. children can sit and do their homework, read a book, or enjoy the air being safely protected from UV rays. there is a reduction in energy costs by 25%. LuAnn covers entry-level price points. Interior designers should be interested in selling awnings if they’re decorating outside spaces, anyway. Reasons why awnings are superior to pergolas. Be aware that your window treatment specialists can help you with this. What you can do now: Start speaking with your current clients about awnings and let them know that you are a resource for this. Research which window treatment and awning specialists are in your area and set up appointments. Download the Window Works guide to Awnings by going to windowworksnj.com (if you like it, let Leslie Carothers at Savour Partnership know, she would surely appreciate it!). The number one way to increase your revenue is to sell more things to your current clients. Remember that for both the short-term and long-term it is important to always create diverse revenue streams that align with your design firm. Links : Watch WTF Live Shows on FB Learn More About Working with Window Works Learn About Working with Vita Learn About Exciting Windows Learn More About Leslie Carothers & Creating a Lead Magnet for Your Business Receive a Free Subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine Attend the Virtual IWCE Learn About the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) Buy Wholesale For Profit Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit KICKING OFF July 22, 2020 Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895 Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195. Register HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business If you loved this show, listen to these for information referenced by previous guests: Leslie Carothers / Savour Partnership: #458 Leslie Price: #413 Nancy Ganzekaufer: #256, #389 Nicole Heymer: #125, #317, #466   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, explore how custom awnings can be the answer that your clients are looking for and the solution you need for your business and its profitability

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. 

Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.

Show Highlights:

  • Vita discusses how she arrived at her revelation that awnings could add revenue to her bottom line.
  • Awnings are a creative up-sell that also serves a need for your client.
  • Awnings are particularly desirable to high value design projects right now due to COVID-19 concerns because:
  • more families are taking “staycations” this summer.
  • being outside is a safe way to socialize.
  • this can be a place to “work from home”.
  • children can sit and do their homework, read a book, or enjoy the air being safely protected from UV rays.
  • there is a reduction in energy costs by 25%.
  • LuAnn covers entry-level price points.
  • Interior designers should be interested in selling awnings if they’re decorating outside spaces, anyway.
  • Reasons why awnings are superior to pergolas.
  • Be aware that your window treatment specialists can help you with this.
  • What you can do now:
  • Start speaking with your current clients about awnings and let them know that you are a resource for this.
  • Research which window treatment and awning specialists are in your area and set up appointments.
  • Download the Window Works guide to Awnings by going to windowworksnj.com (if you like it, let Leslie Carothers at Savour Partnership know, she would surely appreciate it!).
  • The number one way to increase your revenue is to sell more things to your current clients.
  • Remember that for both the short-term and long-term it is important to always create diverse revenue streams that align with your design firm.

Links :

Watch WTF Live Shows on FB

Learn More About Working with Window Works

Learn About Working with Vita

Learn About Exciting Windows

Learn More About Leslie Carothers & Creating a Lead Magnet for Your Business

Receive a Free Subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

Attend the Virtual IWCE

Learn About the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

If you loved this show, listen to these for information referenced by previous guests:

Leslie Carothers / Savour Partnership: #458

Leslie Price: #413

Nancy Ganzekaufer: #256, #389

Nicole Heymer: #125, #317, #466

 

]]> 4133 no 550: What Would Lu Do? Tough Emails with Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/551-what-would-lu-do-tough-emails-with-clients Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from another one of LuAnn’s coaching clients, who was experiencing a late invoicing issue due to some extremely hectic circumstances in her life. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!   Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details surrounding her coaching client’s dilemma. The client was hesitant to send out invoicing at such a late date and LuAnn prepared her to by saying that some clients would fight her, some would pay her and some would ignore her.  The client did send out the invoicing, knowing that she did the work and earned the money, but was ready to eat some crow if she couldn’t collect payment. Apologizing appropriately and owning her mistake netted her payment from most of her clients, but there was one in particular that was adversarial. After a few not so fun email exchanges the client ultimately sends this email: “You will receive payment for the invoices in the same timeframe you billed me." LuAnn shares the cordial response that the client wanted to send, but LuAnn had a more appropriate response in mind, since this was clearly a compassionless, bad-mannered client. The key here is to focus on the agreement to pay, which the client had agreed to do. Leave the emotion out of the equation. You don’t want to introduce any other elements that can take the conversation away from the primary goal, which is collecting the money.  LuAnn shares her thoughts on the various responses that the client might have sent, and suggests that the client allow herself grace when she makes mistakes. The hope and goal is to learn from the mistake so that it is avoided in the future. Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buywholesaleforprofit.com Starts July 22nd! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Thu, 11 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from another one of LuAnn’s coaching clients, who was... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from another one of LuAnn’s coaching clients, who was experiencing a late invoicing issue due to some extremely hectic circumstances in her life. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!   Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details surrounding her coaching client’s dilemma. The client was hesitant to send out invoicing at such a late date and LuAnn prepared her to by saying that some clients would fight her, some would pay her and some would ignore her.  The client did send out the invoicing, knowing that she did the work and earned the money, but was ready to eat some crow if she couldn’t collect payment. Apologizing appropriately and owning her mistake netted her payment from most of her clients, but there was one in particular that was adversarial. After a few not so fun email exchanges the client ultimately sends this email: “You will receive payment for the invoices in the same timeframe you billed me." LuAnn shares the cordial response that the client wanted to send, but LuAnn had a more appropriate response in mind, since this was clearly a compassionless, bad-mannered client. The key here is to focus on the agreement to pay, which the client had agreed to do. Leave the emotion out of the equation. You don’t want to introduce any other elements that can take the conversation away from the primary goal, which is collecting the money.  LuAnn shares her thoughts on the various responses that the client might have sent, and suggests that the client allow herself grace when she makes mistakes. The hope and goal is to learn from the mistake so that it is avoided in the future. Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buywholesaleforprofit.com Starts July 22nd! A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from another one of LuAnn’s coaching clients, who was experiencing a late invoicing issue due to some extremely hectic circumstances in her life.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!

 

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details surrounding her coaching client’s dilemma.
  • The client was hesitant to send out invoicing at such a late date and LuAnn prepared her to by saying that some clients would fight her, some would pay her and some would ignore her. 
  • The client did send out the invoicing, knowing that she did the work and earned the money, but was ready to eat some crow if she couldn’t collect payment.
  • Apologizing appropriately and owning her mistake netted her payment from most of her clients, but there was one in particular that was adversarial.
  • After a few not so fun email exchanges the client ultimately sends this email: “You will receive payment for the invoices in the same timeframe you billed me."
  • LuAnn shares the cordial response that the client wanted to send, but LuAnn had a more appropriate response in mind, since this was clearly a compassionless, bad-mannered client.
  • The key here is to focus on the agreement to pay, which the client had agreed to do. Leave the emotion out of the equation. You don’t want to introduce any other elements that can take the conversation away from the primary goal, which is collecting the money. 
  • LuAnn shares her thoughts on the various responses that the client might have sent, and suggests that the client allow herself grace when she makes mistakes. The hope and goal is to learn from the mistake so that it is avoided in the future.

Links / Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buywholesaleforprofit.com

Starts July 22nd!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

 

]]> 1222 no 549: Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/549-corey-damen-jenkins-blm-time-to-take-the-baton Nationally acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins mixes vibrant colors with layered patterns to create architecturally inspired spaces that are, at once, elegant, inventive and timeless. Taking cues from runway fashion, his residences feature luxurious and refined materials including intricate wallcoverings, sculptural lighting and stately furnishings. Jenkins’ goal “is to ensure that my clients’ homes are always classic, chic and without an expiration date,” states the designer. Most recently Jenkins was honored with Traditional Home’s “New Trad” Rising Star of Design Award, as well as an extensive cover feature highlighting a recent commission. His work has also garnered attention from numerous publications including Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Veranda, Domino, and HGTV. Connect with Corey! Corey’s Website Corey’s Instagram Corey’s Original Appearance on the show: #127   Mon, 08 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Corey Damen Jenkins #BLM: Time to Take the Baton full 549 LuAnn Nigara Nationally acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins mixes vibrant colors with layered patterns to create architecturally inspired spaces that are, at once, elegant, inventive and timeless. Taking cues from runway fashion, his residences feature... Nationally acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins mixes vibrant colors with layered patterns to create architecturally inspired spaces that are, at once, elegant, inventive and timeless. Taking cues from runway fashion, his residences feature luxurious and refined materials including intricate wallcoverings, sculptural lighting and stately furnishings. Jenkins’ goal “is to ensure that my clients’ homes are always classic, chic and without an expiration date,” states the designer. Most recently Jenkins was honored with Traditional Home’s “New Trad” Rising Star of Design Award, as well as an extensive cover feature highlighting a recent commission. His work has also garnered attention from numerous publications including Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Veranda, Domino, and HGTV. Connect with Corey! Corey’s Website Corey’s Instagram Corey’s Original Appearance on the show: #127   Nationally acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins mixes vibrant colors with layered patterns to create architecturally inspired spaces that are, at once, elegant, inventive and timeless. Taking cues from runway fashion, his residences feature luxurious and refined materials including intricate wallcoverings, sculptural lighting and stately furnishings. Jenkins’ goal “is to ensure that my clients’ homes are always classic, chic and without an expiration date,” states the designer. Most recently Jenkins was honored with Traditional Home’s “New Trad” Rising Star of Design Award, as well as an extensive cover feature highlighting a recent commission. His work has also garnered attention from numerous publications including Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Veranda, Domino, and HGTV.

Connect with Corey!

Corey’s Website

Corey’s Instagram

Corey’s Original Appearance on the show: #127

 

]]> 4612 no 548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/548-terri-taylor-calculating-flat-fees-budgets Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Terri Taylor joins LuAnn on today’s show and she’s going to be walking you through how she calculates budgets on the fly. You’re going to learn what a powerful tool it can be for your design business! One of Terri’s passions is helping interior designers get their firms organized and profitable. Make sure you take notes because Terri’s going to detail how she does this in an understandable, doable way! Hopefully, it will inspire you and give you the courage and language to have that tricky conversation about budget with your next client. Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Show Highlights: Using an Excel spreadsheet with the items found in a room and broken out by a room during a consult is simple and efficient. If you can get a client to agree with you on the price of furniture pieces three or four times, the client is going to say yes to you when you ask to be hired. You have to do your homework and know how to figure these prices out beforehand. When you get all the prices on your yellow pad, add it up using easy, rounded-up numbers, and write the total. Hand this to your client, and don’t say anything. They might say they didn’t know it was going to be that much, and Okay. Then you’ve just sold the whole job. If they counter with a lower price, agree with them, then ask them which parts they would like to take out? This is not the time to educate your client on quality and value, you’re just determining their thoughts on prices. Once you agree on the total of the furniture, you can pull out a design fee based on 15% - 20% of the furniture budget. This is a small number and easy to sell, but keep your percentage private. Terri offers more details on how to do this. There is a way to create revenue of millions of dollars a year, but it’s about team and organization. When you actually design the room, you don’t pay attention to the individual pieces but are just keeping the overall budget in mind. You have gotten the agreement based on concept and budget. What you can learn by floating good, better, and best prices for individual pieces. Your answers have to make sense and you need to speak with confidence. Tips on collecting your design fee. Although you charge a flat fee, you still have to plan your hours and know how much time each part of the project you have to complete its so that the flat fee you charged is profitable. ·         As you gain experience (meaning as you have perfected your back end, your process, your efficiencies as well as your budget and sales presentation), in order to make more money you should be striving to earn more money on the furniture items (instead of raising your design fees above 20-25%). ·         Terri shares information on her various online courses and the services she offers at Interior Design Business Academy. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Connect with Terri! Terri’s Website: Go to Interior Design Business Academy and sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to get FREE business tips and strategies and invitations to my monthly FREE Design Business CEUs. Terri’s Email: Terri@InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet For More Shows About Fees & Budgets: Sandra Funk #520, #145, #02 Sarah Magness #384 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Laura Michaels #372 Sally Williams #496 Other shows mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer:#389, #256, #159, #15 Brad Leavitt #542 Traci Connell #525     Tue, 02 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets full 548 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Terri Taylor joins LuAnn on today’s show and she’s going to be walking you through how she calculates budgets on the fly. You’re going to learn what a powerful tool it can be for your design business! One of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Terri Taylor joins LuAnn on today’s show and she’s going to be walking you through how she calculates budgets on the fly. You’re going to learn what a powerful tool it can be for your design business! One of Terri’s passions is helping interior designers get their firms organized and profitable. Make sure you take notes because Terri’s going to detail how she does this in an understandable, doable way! Hopefully, it will inspire you and give you the courage and language to have that tricky conversation about budget with your next client. Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth. Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses. Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. Show Highlights: Using an Excel spreadsheet with the items found in a room and broken out by a room during a consult is simple and efficient. If you can get a client to agree with you on the price of furniture pieces three or four times, the client is going to say yes to you when you ask to be hired. You have to do your homework and know how to figure these prices out beforehand. When you get all the prices on your yellow pad, add it up using easy, rounded-up numbers, and write the total. Hand this to your client, and don’t say anything. They might say they didn’t know it was going to be that much, and Okay. Then you’ve just sold the whole job. If they counter with a lower price, agree with them, then ask them which parts they would like to take out? This is not the time to educate your client on quality and value, you’re just determining their thoughts on prices. Once you agree on the total of the furniture, you can pull out a design fee based on 15% - 20% of the furniture budget. This is a small number and easy to sell, but keep your percentage private. Terri offers more details on how to do this. There is a way to create revenue of millions of dollars a year, but it’s about team and organization. When you actually design the room, you don’t pay attention to the individual pieces but are just keeping the overall budget in mind. You have gotten the agreement based on concept and budget. What you can learn by floating good, better, and best prices for individual pieces. Your answers have to make sense and you need to speak with confidence. Tips on collecting your design fee. Although you charge a flat fee, you still have to plan your hours and know how much time each part of the project you have to complete its so that the flat fee you charged is profitable. ·         As you gain experience (meaning as you have perfected your back end, your process, your efficiencies as well as your budget and sales presentation), in order to make more money you should be striving to earn more money on the furniture items (instead of raising your design fees above 20-25%). ·         Terri shares information on her various online courses and the services she offers at Interior Design Business Academy. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell:  Buy Wholesale For Profit Connect with Terri! Terri’s Website: Go to Interior Design Business Academy and sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to get FREE business tips and strategies and invitations to my monthly FREE Design Business CEUs. Terri’s Email: Terri@InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet For More Shows About Fees & Budgets: Sandra Funk #520, #145, #02 Sarah Magness #384 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Laura Michaels #372 Sally Williams #496 Other shows mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer:#389, #256, #159, #15 Brad Leavitt #542 Traci Connell #525     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Terri Taylor joins LuAnn on today’s show and she’s going to be walking you through how she calculates budgets on the fly. You’re going to learn what a powerful tool it can be for your design business!

One of Terri’s passions is helping interior designers get their firms organized and profitable. Make sure you take notes because Terri’s going to detail how she does this in an understandable, doable way! Hopefully, it will inspire you and give you the courage and language to have that tricky conversation about budget with your next client.

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.




Show Highlights:

  • Using an Excel spreadsheet with the items found in a room and broken out by a room during a consult is simple and efficient.
  • If you can get a client to agree with you on the price of furniture pieces three or four times, the client is going to say yes to you when you ask to be hired.
  • You have to do your homework and know how to figure these prices out beforehand.
  • When you get all the prices on your yellow pad, add it up using easy, rounded-up numbers, and write the total. Hand this to your client, and don’t say anything.
  • They might say they didn’t know it was going to be that much, and Okay. Then you’ve just sold the whole job.
  • If they counter with a lower price, agree with them, then ask them which parts they would like to take out?
  • This is not the time to educate your client on quality and value, you’re just determining their thoughts on prices.
  • Once you agree on the total of the furniture, you can pull out a design fee based on 15% - 20% of the furniture budget. This is a small number and easy to sell, but keep your percentage private. Terri offers more details on how to do this.
  • There is a way to create revenue of millions of dollars a year, but it’s about team and organization.
  • When you actually design the room, you don’t pay attention to the individual pieces but are just keeping the overall budget in mind.
  • You have gotten the agreement based on concept and budget.
  • What you can learn by floating good, better, and best prices for individual pieces.
  • Your answers have to make sense and you need to speak with confidence.
  • Tips on collecting your design fee.
  • Although you charge a flat fee, you still have to plan your hours and know how much time each part of the project you have to complete its so that the flat fee you charged is profitable.
·         As you gain experience (meaning as you have perfected your back end, your process, your efficiencies as well as your budget and sales presentation), in order to make more money you should be striving to earn more money on the furniture items (instead of raising your design fees above 20-25%). ·         Terri shares information on her various online courses and the services she offers at Interior Design Business Academy.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara: COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Connect with Terri!

Terri’s Website:

Go to Interior Design Business Academy and sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to get FREE business tips and strategies and invitations to my monthly FREE Design Business CEUs.

Terri’s Email: Terri@InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

For More Shows About Fees & Budgets:

Sandra Funk #520, #145, #02

Sarah Magness #384

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Laura Michaels #372

Sally Williams #496

Other shows mentioned:

Nancy Ganzekaufer:#389, #256, #159, #15

Brad Leavitt #542

Traci Connell #525

 

 

]]> 4943 no 547: Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/547-power-talk-friday-jamie-lieberman-of-hashtag-legal-5-steps-to-sharpen-your-negotiation-skills Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday, and LuAnn’s friend, Jamie Lieberman, joins the show today. Jamie also happens to be her lawyer and co-author of their upcoming book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Vol 2, coming Fall 2020. Jamie will be covering five steps to engaging effectively in any negotiation. This is a great topic because you can dramatically improve your profitability when you sharpen these skills. Negotiating is a learned skill, just like learning how to do floor plans, and just like learning to do floor plans, negotiating is a critical skill to ensure your success, so listen in and take some notes! Jamie Lieberman is an attorney, podcaster and entrepreneur dedicated to making legal accessible and to sharing the message that legal does not have to be scary. As the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives and business owners to help her clients grow and protect their businesses. She leads an all female, virtual team focused on providing clients with advice on a wide range of subjects such as intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC and general business law as well negotiation strategies. Jamie is a highly experienced speaker and is the co-host for the FearLess Business Podcast. Show Highlights: If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re a sales person. Determine your tolerance for risk. Negotiation is about collaboration, and needs a holistic approach. Bargaining is what most people think negotiation is. There is so much strategy and research that goes into a true negotiation that by the time you get to bargaining, it’s an afterthought. Jamie details the five steps to effectively engage in negotiation, which are: Strategy Setting the Climate Getting Information Clarifying Positions & Interests Bargaining After those five steps, that’s when you can memorialize your agreement in a contract. Don’t be surprised if you have multiple waves of negotiation before you actually sign a contract. Know your boundaries and know when and if it’s appropriate to walk away. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Jamie! Jamie’sWebsite Jamie’s Facebook Jamie’s Instagram Jamie’s LinkedIn Jamie’s FearLess Podcast Jamie’s YouTube Channel A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Shows Mentioned: Kwame Christian: #129 Jamie Lieberman #454 Article.com Jillian Cross #367   Fri, 29 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills full 547 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday, and LuAnn’s friend, Jamie Lieberman, joins the show today. Jamie also happens to be her lawyer and co-author of their upcoming book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday, and LuAnn’s friend, Jamie Lieberman, joins the show today. Jamie also happens to be her lawyer and co-author of their upcoming book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Vol 2, coming Fall 2020. Jamie will be covering five steps to engaging effectively in any negotiation. This is a great topic because you can dramatically improve your profitability when you sharpen these skills. Negotiating is a learned skill, just like learning how to do floor plans, and just like learning to do floor plans, negotiating is a critical skill to ensure your success, so listen in and take some notes! Jamie Lieberman is an attorney, podcaster and entrepreneur dedicated to making legal accessible and to sharing the message that legal does not have to be scary. As the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives and business owners to help her clients grow and protect their businesses. She leads an all female, virtual team focused on providing clients with advice on a wide range of subjects such as intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC and general business law as well negotiation strategies. Jamie is a highly experienced speaker and is the co-host for the FearLess Business Podcast. Show Highlights: If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re a sales person. Determine your tolerance for risk. Negotiation is about collaboration, and needs a holistic approach. Bargaining is what most people think negotiation is. There is so much strategy and research that goes into a true negotiation that by the time you get to bargaining, it’s an afterthought. Jamie details the five steps to effectively engage in negotiation, which are: Strategy Setting the Climate Getting Information Clarifying Positions & Interests Bargaining After those five steps, that’s when you can memorialize your agreement in a contract. Don’t be surprised if you have multiple waves of negotiation before you actually sign a contract. Know your boundaries and know when and if it’s appropriate to walk away. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Jamie! Jamie’sWebsite Jamie’s Facebook Jamie’s Instagram Jamie’s LinkedIn Jamie’s FearLess Podcast Jamie’s YouTube Channel A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Shows Mentioned: Kwame Christian: #129 Jamie Lieberman #454 Article.com Jillian Cross #367   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday, and LuAnn’s friend, Jamie Lieberman, joins the show today. Jamie also happens to be her lawyer and co-author of their upcoming book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Vol 2, coming Fall 2020.

Jamie will be covering five steps to engaging effectively in any negotiation. This is a great topic because you can dramatically improve your profitability when you sharpen these skills. Negotiating is a learned skill, just like learning how to do floor plans, and just like learning to do floor plans, negotiating is a critical skill to ensure your success, so listen in and take some notes!

Jamie Lieberman is an attorney, podcaster and entrepreneur dedicated to making legal accessible and to sharing the message that legal does not have to be scary. As the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives and business owners to help her clients grow and protect their businesses.

She leads an all female, virtual team focused on providing clients with advice on a wide range of subjects such as intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC and general business law as well negotiation strategies. Jamie is a highly experienced speaker and is the co-host for the FearLess Business Podcast.

Show Highlights:

  • If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re a sales person.
  • Determine your tolerance for risk.
  • Negotiation is about collaboration, and needs a holistic approach.
  • Bargaining is what most people think negotiation is.
  • There is so much strategy and research that goes into a true negotiation that by the time you get to bargaining, it’s an afterthought.
  • Jamie details the five steps to effectively engage in negotiation, which are:
  1. Strategy
  2. Setting the Climate
  3. Getting Information
  4. Clarifying Positions & Interests
  5. Bargaining
  • After those five steps, that’s when you can memorialize your agreement in a contract.
  • Don’t be surprised if you have multiple waves of negotiation before you actually sign a contract.
  • Know your boundaries and know when and if it’s appropriate to walk away.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Jamie!

Jamie’sWebsite

Jamie’s Facebook

Jamie’s Instagram

Jamie’s LinkedIn

Jamie’s FearLess Podcast

Jamie’s YouTube Channel

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Previous Shows Mentioned:

Kwame Christian: #129 Jamie Lieberman #454 Article.com Jillian Cross #367

 

]]> 3659 no 546: What Would Lu Do? How to Handle a Trade That Hijacks Your Project http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/547-what-would-lu-do-how-to-handle-a-trade-that-hijacks-your-project Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from LuAnn’s coaching client, Jill, who gave LuAnn her blessing to share this sticky situation on the podcast. Jill has a new client who is the daughter of a very good client (and friend) of hers. The new client had a general contractor present at an in-home consultation for window treatments and the GC was very opinionated, contradicting Jill's advice at every turn. To make matters worse, the new client gave deference to every word he said.  Listen in to hear multiple dilemmas that Jill faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details of her coaching client, Jill’s, dilemma. LuAnn posed this question for Jill to consider: Do you actually disagree with the GC’s suggestions and comments, or are you just annoyed that his say-so is being included in the discussion? The bottom line is to get clear on what your actual reaction is and separate the emotion from it. As it turns out, Jill thought that the GC was leading her client into mistakes, some much worse than others. Additionally, Jill would be the one responsible at the end of the day. When Jill presented her reasoning, her reasoning was poo-poo’d and the client sided with the GC. The next question that LuAnn asked Jill: Does the client’s mother know the GC and does she have an opinion of him, and is this something that she needs to know about? Jill confirmed that the mother does know the GC and does not care for him.  Here’s the third question that LuAnn asked Jill: Yes or no, honestly: with everything set up as it is now with the same dynamics in place, do you see this project as being successful if you take the job? Jill did NOT see this project going well. LuAnn’s final question for Jill: Pretend everything is exactly the same and the project is $2,600 instead of $26,000: would you give a second thought to just walking away? Jill’s response was no, with the exception of the relationship with the client’s mother. The most important thing to consider, given all the details, is the relationship with the original client.  The second most important thing is Jill will only proceed with the job if this particular GC is not involved. Know what you will do, and what you will not do. What would Lu do, based on this information? Listen in to find out the surprising outcome! Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob   Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes: #222  #526 Thu, 28 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from LuAnn’s coaching client, Jill, who gave LuAnn her... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from LuAnn’s coaching client, Jill, who gave LuAnn her blessing to share this sticky situation on the podcast. Jill has a new client who is the daughter of a very good client (and friend) of hers. The new client had a general contractor present at an in-home consultation for window treatments and the GC was very opinionated, contradicting Jill's advice at every turn. To make matters worse, the new client gave deference to every word he said.  Listen in to hear multiple dilemmas that Jill faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares the details of her coaching client, Jill’s, dilemma. LuAnn posed this question for Jill to consider: Do you actually disagree with the GC’s suggestions and comments, or are you just annoyed that his say-so is being included in the discussion? The bottom line is to get clear on what your actual reaction is and separate the emotion from it. As it turns out, Jill thought that the GC was leading her client into mistakes, some much worse than others. Additionally, Jill would be the one responsible at the end of the day. When Jill presented her reasoning, her reasoning was poo-poo’d and the client sided with the GC. The next question that LuAnn asked Jill: Does the client’s mother know the GC and does she have an opinion of him, and is this something that she needs to know about? Jill confirmed that the mother does know the GC and does not care for him.  Here’s the third question that LuAnn asked Jill: Yes or no, honestly: with everything set up as it is now with the same dynamics in place, do you see this project as being successful if you take the job? Jill did NOT see this project going well. LuAnn’s final question for Jill: Pretend everything is exactly the same and the project is $2,600 instead of $26,000: would you give a second thought to just walking away? Jill’s response was no, with the exception of the relationship with the client’s mother. The most important thing to consider, given all the details, is the relationship with the original client.  The second most important thing is Jill will only proceed with the job if this particular GC is not involved. Know what you will do, and what you will not do. What would Lu do, based on this information? Listen in to find out the surprising outcome! Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob   Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes: #222  #526 Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from LuAnn’s coaching client, Jill, who gave LuAnn her blessing to share this sticky situation on the podcast. Jill has a new client who is the daughter of a very good client (and friend) of hers. The new client had a general contractor present at an in-home consultation for window treatments and the GC was very opinionated, contradicting Jill's advice at every turn. To make matters worse, the new client gave deference to every word he said. 

Listen in to hear multiple dilemmas that Jill faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details of her coaching client, Jill’s, dilemma.
  • LuAnn posed this question for Jill to consider:
  • Do you actually disagree with the GC’s suggestions and comments, or are you just annoyed that his say-so is being included in the discussion?
  • The bottom line is to get clear on what your actual reaction is and separate the emotion from it.
  • As it turns out, Jill thought that the GC was leading her client into mistakes, some much worse than others. Additionally, Jill would be the one responsible at the end of the day.
  • When Jill presented her reasoning, her reasoning was poo-poo’d and the client sided with the GC.
  • The next question that LuAnn asked Jill:
  • Does the client’s mother know the GC and does she have an opinion of him, and is this something that she needs to know about?
  • Jill confirmed that the mother does know the GC and does not care for him. 
  • Here’s the third question that LuAnn asked Jill:
  • Yes or no, honestly: with everything set up as it is now with the same dynamics in place, do you see this project as being successful if you take the job?
  • Jill did NOT see this project going well.
  • LuAnn’s final question for Jill:
  • Pretend everything is exactly the same and the project is $2,600 instead of $26,000: would you give a second thought to just walking away?
  • Jill’s response was no, with the exception of the relationship with the client’s mother.
  • The most important thing to consider, given all the details, is the relationship with the original client. 
  • The second most important thing is Jill will only proceed with the job if this particular GC is not involved.
  • Know what you will do, and what you will not do.
  • What would Lu do, based on this information?
  • Listen in to find out the surprising outcome!

Links / Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Previous Episodes:

#222 

#526

]]> 1270 no 545: Laurel Smith: Permission to Succeed http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/545-permission-to-succeed Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Last year at LuAnn Live, LuAnn gifted each of the VIP Attendees with the headset which she requires when you do an interview with her, then challenged her attendees to take action in their business and come onto the show and share about it. Today’s guest is Laurel Smith, the principal of Farrington Avenue and she is doing just that! Laurel will be sharing the ups and downs and the stops and starts of her entrepreneurial journey that will seem so familiar to many of us. She discusses some of the assumptions she made about owning a business, some of the mistakes she made in starting up, and how she finally came to exactly what she knows she was meant to do with her professional life. Listen in as Laurel describes the key to how her growth really began, the things that catapulted once she got real, and see if some of her story sparks something that just might be inside of you, too! Show Highlights: Laurel shares her work and educational background and how listening to the podcast helped in to her decision to go in another direction to pursue her dream. Laurel has built her brand around everything she learned in occupational therapy and about how humans interact with their environment. When you can’t perform tasks, that impacts your sense of self, quality of life, and well-being. Her mission and vision for her company is built around the idea of creating wellness through design and making the home a happy and healthy place. LuAnn shares her “business mid-life crisis”, how she worked through it, and the wisdom that came out of it. Don’t map out your story of success using someone else’s narrative. Laurel details all of the work that she has been doing to transform her business. There’s power in the words we speak! LuAnn addresses confidence and how it comes out of understanding and growth. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Laurel! Laurel’s Instagram A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Other shows mentioned: Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84,102, 499 Taylor Spellman 106, 390 Amber Lewis 169, 184 Sara Lynn Brennan 463, 524, 514 Michele Williams 137, 180, 395, 424 Wendy Woloshchuk 316, 527   Tue, 26 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Laurel Smith: Permission to Succeed full 545 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Last year at LuAnn Live, LuAnn gifted each of the VIP Attendees with the headset which she requires when you do an interview with her, then challenged her attendees to take action in their business and come onto... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Last year at LuAnn Live, LuAnn gifted each of the VIP Attendees with the headset which she requires when you do an interview with her, then challenged her attendees to take action in their business and come onto the show and share about it. Today’s guest is Laurel Smith, the principal of Farrington Avenue and she is doing just that! Laurel will be sharing the ups and downs and the stops and starts of her entrepreneurial journey that will seem so familiar to many of us. She discusses some of the assumptions she made about owning a business, some of the mistakes she made in starting up, and how she finally came to exactly what she knows she was meant to do with her professional life. Listen in as Laurel describes the key to how her growth really began, the things that catapulted once she got real, and see if some of her story sparks something that just might be inside of you, too! Show Highlights: Laurel shares her work and educational background and how listening to the podcast helped in to her decision to go in another direction to pursue her dream. Laurel has built her brand around everything she learned in occupational therapy and about how humans interact with their environment. When you can’t perform tasks, that impacts your sense of self, quality of life, and well-being. Her mission and vision for her company is built around the idea of creating wellness through design and making the home a happy and healthy place. LuAnn shares her “business mid-life crisis”, how she worked through it, and the wisdom that came out of it. Don’t map out your story of success using someone else’s narrative. Laurel details all of the work that she has been doing to transform her business. There’s power in the words we speak! LuAnn addresses confidence and how it comes out of understanding and growth. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Laurel! Laurel’s Instagram A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Other shows mentioned: Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84,102, 499 Taylor Spellman 106, 390 Amber Lewis 169, 184 Sara Lynn Brennan 463, 524, 514 Michele Williams 137, 180, 395, 424 Wendy Woloshchuk 316, 527   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Last year at LuAnn Live, LuAnn gifted each of the VIP Attendees with the headset which she requires when you do an interview with her, then challenged her attendees to take action in their business and come onto the show and share about it. Today’s guest is Laurel Smith, the principal of Farrington Avenue and she is doing just that!

Laurel will be sharing the ups and downs and the stops and starts of her entrepreneurial journey that will seem so familiar to many of us. She discusses some of the assumptions she made about owning a business, some of the mistakes she made in starting up, and how she finally came to exactly what she knows she was meant to do with her professional life.

Listen in as Laurel describes the key to how her growth really began, the things that catapulted once she got real, and see if some of her story sparks something that just might be inside of you, too!




Show Highlights:

  • Laurel shares her work and educational background and how listening to the podcast helped in to her decision to go in another direction to pursue her dream.
  • Laurel has built her brand around everything she learned in occupational therapy and about how humans interact with their environment. When you can’t perform tasks, that impacts your sense of self, quality of life, and well-being.
  • Her mission and vision for her company is built around the idea of creating wellness through design and making the home a happy and healthy place.
  • LuAnn shares her “business mid-life crisis”, how she worked through it, and the wisdom that came out of it.
  • Don’t map out your story of success using someone else’s narrative.
  • Laurel details all of the work that she has been doing to transform her business.
  • There’s power in the words we speak!
  • LuAnn addresses confidence and how it comes out of understanding and growth.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara: COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Laurel!

Laurel’s Instagram

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

Other shows mentioned:

Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84,102, 499

Taylor Spellman 106, 390

Amber Lewis 169, 184

Sara Lynn Brennan 463, 524, 514

Michele Williams 137, 180, 395, 424

Wendy Woloshchuk 316, 527

 

]]> 3854 no 544: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/544-power-talk-friday-natalie-norcross-5-things-to-do-to-get-pr Welcome to, A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Natalie Norcross, who has a specific road map for how she teaches you how to do your own PR. Public relations is so valuable, and more now than ever, due to the current coronavirus event. If you’re looking to not only survive but thrive during this economic crisis, you’ll want to keep marketing your firm and learn how to do your own PR.  Natalie offers so many good tips, you’re not going to want to miss this! Natalie is the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership. Natalie Norcross has over 19 years experience working for Interior Designers, Architects, Builders, Developers, Hotel, and Home Brands and her firm has a demonstrated track record of driving exposure and placements through the PR they produce. Natalie has appeared on the show in episodes #162 and #506. In episode #506, LuAnn and Natalie talked about the four areas to pay attention to when you are going after press for your design firm. Please go back and listen to both episodes where you will not only pick up some outstanding business advice, but you will also learn a bit more about Natalie and her career. Show Highlights: Natalie details each of the five things you need to do to get published: Be specific! Know your niche. Be the face of your brand and be the expert. Partner with big names. Build a good relationship with the journalists. Timing is everything. Natalie explains her personality questionnaire that helps you to determine your niche. You don’t need an expensive publicist to get published, you just need the tools, the know-how, and who to contact. Natalie recommends to her PR members blocking out on their calendars 2-3 hours twice a month on Fridays. This is all the time they will need to spend putting together their pitches, sending them off to editors, and following up. LuAnn cautions knowing who you’re pitching to and making sure that your pitch matches their themes. Media NEEDS your content. Natalie shares some of the tools that members of her DIY PR Membership Program receive to assist them in getting more exposure. Tips and strategies on project organization, partnering, building relationships, and more! Media NEEDS your content. Natalie is a great resource of information and offers both DIY and a full-service PR firm. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Natalie! Promo Code for Interior Design PR: Luann DIY PR Membership Program For 20% off your 1st month of membership use Promo Code: luann For Your Personality Questionnaire That Natalie Mentioned, Please Email: Hello@interiordesignpr.com Natalie’s Full-Service PR Company: A Design Partnership Download Your FREE e-Books HERE Blog Post: 5 Things You Can Do To Get Yourself Published Today A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Fri, 22 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: 5 Things To Do To Get PR full 544 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to, A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Natalie Norcross, who has a specific road map for how she teaches you how to do your own PR. Public relations is so valuable, and more now than ever, due to the... Welcome to, A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Natalie Norcross, who has a specific road map for how she teaches you how to do your own PR. Public relations is so valuable, and more now than ever, due to the current coronavirus event. If you’re looking to not only survive but thrive during this economic crisis, you’ll want to keep marketing your firm and learn how to do your own PR.  Natalie offers so many good tips, you’re not going to want to miss this! Natalie is the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership. Natalie Norcross has over 19 years experience working for Interior Designers, Architects, Builders, Developers, Hotel, and Home Brands and her firm has a demonstrated track record of driving exposure and placements through the PR they produce. Natalie has appeared on the show in episodes #162 and #506. In episode #506, LuAnn and Natalie talked about the four areas to pay attention to when you are going after press for your design firm. Please go back and listen to both episodes where you will not only pick up some outstanding business advice, but you will also learn a bit more about Natalie and her career. Show Highlights: Natalie details each of the five things you need to do to get published: Be specific! Know your niche. Be the face of your brand and be the expert. Partner with big names. Build a good relationship with the journalists. Timing is everything. Natalie explains her personality questionnaire that helps you to determine your niche. You don’t need an expensive publicist to get published, you just need the tools, the know-how, and who to contact. Natalie recommends to her PR members blocking out on their calendars 2-3 hours twice a month on Fridays. This is all the time they will need to spend putting together their pitches, sending them off to editors, and following up. LuAnn cautions knowing who you’re pitching to and making sure that your pitch matches their themes. Media NEEDS your content. Natalie shares some of the tools that members of her DIY PR Membership Program receive to assist them in getting more exposure. Tips and strategies on project organization, partnering, building relationships, and more! Media NEEDS your content. Natalie is a great resource of information and offers both DIY and a full-service PR firm. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Natalie! Promo Code for Interior Design PR: Luann DIY PR Membership Program For 20% off your 1st month of membership use Promo Code: luann For Your Personality Questionnaire That Natalie Mentioned, Please Email: Hello@interiordesignpr.com Natalie’s Full-Service PR Company: A Design Partnership Download Your FREE e-Books HERE Blog Post: 5 Things You Can Do To Get Yourself Published Today A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen: Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?   Welcome to, A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Natalie Norcross, who has a specific road map for how she teaches you how to do your own PR. Public relations is so valuable, and more now than ever, due to the current coronavirus event.

If you’re looking to not only survive but thrive during this economic crisis, you’ll want to keep marketing your firm and learn how to do your own PR.  Natalie offers so many good tips, you’re not going to want to miss this!

Natalie is the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership. Natalie Norcross has over 19 years experience working for Interior Designers, Architects, Builders, Developers, Hotel, and Home Brands and her firm has a demonstrated track record of driving exposure and placements through the PR they produce.

Natalie has appeared on the show in episodes #162 and #506. In episode #506, LuAnn and Natalie talked about the four areas to pay attention to when you are going after press for your design firm. Please go back and listen to both episodes where you will not only pick up some outstanding business advice, but you will also learn a bit more about Natalie and her career.



Show Highlights:

  • Natalie details each of the five things you need to do to get published:
  1. Be specific! Know your niche.
  2. Be the face of your brand and be the expert.
  3. Partner with big names.
  4. Build a good relationship with the journalists.
  5. Timing is everything.
  • Natalie explains her personality questionnaire that helps you to determine your niche.
  • You don’t need an expensive publicist to get published, you just need the tools, the know-how, and who to contact.
  • Natalie recommends to her PR members blocking out on their calendars 2-3 hours twice a month on Fridays. This is all the time they will need to spend putting together their pitches, sending them off to editors, and following up.
  • LuAnn cautions knowing who you’re pitching to and making sure that your pitch matches their themes. Media NEEDS your content.
  • Natalie shares some of the tools that members of her DIY PR Membership Program receive to assist them in getting more exposure.
  • Tips and strategies on project organization, partnering, building relationships, and more!
  • Media NEEDS your content.
  • Natalie is a great resource of information and offers both DIY and a full-service PR firm.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Natalie!

Promo Code for Interior Design PR: Luann

DIY PR Membership Program

For 20% off your 1st month of membership use Promo Code: luann

For Your Personality Questionnaire That Natalie Mentioned, Please Email:

Hello@interiordesignpr.com

Natalie’s Full-Service PR Company: A Design Partnership

Download Your FREE e-Books HERE

Blog Post: 5 Things You Can Do To Get Yourself Published Today

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram! Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

 

]]> 3520 no 543: Krystle Pickens: Steps to Get from $13k a Year, to $13k a Month! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/543-krystle-pickens-steps-to-get-from-13k-a-year-to-13k-a-month Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Krystle Pickens joins LuAnn in today’s conversation about not just growing a business, but growing a business fast, smart, and intentionally.  Listen in for real strategies that can help you set up your own business for success and profit!  Krystle Pickens is passionate about working with clients to create spaces that are beautiful and evoke that special feeling of home, while also meeting the individual client’s needs. We apply our four core values: Sustainability, Feeling, Functionality, and Community to every project, big or small. Krystle has a degree in Interior Design and has worked in the design industry since 2012, getting her start in Kitchen and Bath Design.  She is based in Jersey City and really feels rooted there, however being raised in Seattle, Krystle feels a responsibility and bond to the environment and incorporates sustainability in all of her projects-she even studied Environmental Science briefly. Show Highlights: Krystle describes how she is in her fourth year of business, and has come a long way since her first year, when she pulled in $13,001.  She set a goal for her second year of $26,002, and ended the year with $27,100. It was at this time that Krystle started listening to “A Well-Designed Business” podcasts. She realized that she was serious about what she loved to do and decided to think of it as a business instead of a hobby. For her third year, which was 2019, Krystle set 19 goals and wrote them down. About halfway through her third year, Krystle decided to hire a business coach who pushed her to shoot for more than her $81,300 goal. She ended up exceeding her goal. Krystle learned at LuAnn Live how important it was to run a business autopsy. This is critical, because you must know where you are before you can plan where you are going. For 2020, Krystle assigned a specific goal to each month and is finding this very powerful. One of her goals this year is to get each and every policy and procedure locked down in a handbook before she takes maternity leave. The Process Leads to Profits class is packed with every tool, idea, and process you could imagine, specifically so that you have a road map to get your back-end organized. There will probably be another class late summer or fall, so if you want help with this, get on the email list to be notified. It’s worth every dime! Being coached on the concept of scaling and the concept of hiring were two of Krystle’s biggest lessons. Hiring a business coach is essential for accountability, advice, and helping you to see the bigger picture. Krystle shares some strategies on how she continues to grow her business and some client communication tips. Links: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action  A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Krystle! Krystle’s Website    Krystle’s Instagram Krystle’s Facebook Krystle’s Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Shows Mentioned: Alinda Morris #429 Do Not Let Us Design For You #346 Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389 Amber De La Garza #385 Sandra Funk #02, #145, #520 Madeleine MacRae #283, #315 Amanda Berlin #420 Jenny Madden #332 Jamie Lieberman #454 Dane Austin #457     Tue, 19 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Krystle Pickens: Steps to Get from $13k a Year, to $13k a Month! full 543 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Krystle Pickens joins LuAnn in today’s conversation about not just growing a business, but growing a business fast, smart, and intentionally.  Listen in for real strategies that can help you set up your own... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Krystle Pickens joins LuAnn in today’s conversation about not just growing a business, but growing a business fast, smart, and intentionally.  Listen in for real strategies that can help you set up your own business for success and profit!  Krystle Pickens is passionate about working with clients to create spaces that are beautiful and evoke that special feeling of home, while also meeting the individual client’s needs. We apply our four core values: Sustainability, Feeling, Functionality, and Community to every project, big or small. Krystle has a degree in Interior Design and has worked in the design industry since 2012, getting her start in Kitchen and Bath Design.  She is based in Jersey City and really feels rooted there, however being raised in Seattle, Krystle feels a responsibility and bond to the environment and incorporates sustainability in all of her projects-she even studied Environmental Science briefly. Show Highlights: Krystle describes how she is in her fourth year of business, and has come a long way since her first year, when she pulled in $13,001.  She set a goal for her second year of $26,002, and ended the year with $27,100. It was at this time that Krystle started listening to “A Well-Designed Business” podcasts. She realized that she was serious about what she loved to do and decided to think of it as a business instead of a hobby. For her third year, which was 2019, Krystle set 19 goals and wrote them down. About halfway through her third year, Krystle decided to hire a business coach who pushed her to shoot for more than her $81,300 goal. She ended up exceeding her goal. Krystle learned at LuAnn Live how important it was to run a business autopsy. This is critical, because you must know where you are before you can plan where you are going. For 2020, Krystle assigned a specific goal to each month and is finding this very powerful. One of her goals this year is to get each and every policy and procedure locked down in a handbook before she takes maternity leave. The Process Leads to Profits class is packed with every tool, idea, and process you could imagine, specifically so that you have a road map to get your back-end organized. There will probably be another class late summer or fall, so if you want help with this, get on the email list to be notified. It’s worth every dime! Being coached on the concept of scaling and the concept of hiring were two of Krystle’s biggest lessons. Hiring a business coach is essential for accountability, advice, and helping you to see the bigger picture. Krystle shares some strategies on how she continues to grow her business and some client communication tips. Links: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action  A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Krystle! Krystle’s Website    Krystle’s Instagram Krystle’s Facebook Krystle’s Pinterest A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Shows Mentioned: Alinda Morris #429 Do Not Let Us Design For You #346 Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389 Amber De La Garza #385 Sandra Funk #02, #145, #520 Madeleine MacRae #283, #315 Amanda Berlin #420 Jenny Madden #332 Jamie Lieberman #454 Dane Austin #457     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Krystle Pickens joins LuAnn in today’s conversation about not just growing a business, but growing a business fast, smart, and intentionally. 

Listen in for real strategies that can help you set up your own business for success and profit! 

Krystle Pickens is passionate about working with clients to create spaces that are beautiful and evoke that special feeling of home, while also meeting the individual client’s needs. We apply our four core values: Sustainability, Feeling, Functionality, and Community to every project, big or small.

Krystle has a degree in Interior Design and has worked in the design industry since 2012, getting her start in Kitchen and Bath Design. 

She is based in Jersey City and really feels rooted there, however being raised in Seattle, Krystle feels a responsibility and bond to the environment and incorporates sustainability in all of her projects-she even studied Environmental Science briefly.

Show Highlights:

  • Krystle describes how she is in her fourth year of business, and has come a long way since her first year, when she pulled in $13,001. 
  • She set a goal for her second year of $26,002, and ended the year with $27,100.
  • It was at this time that Krystle started listening to “A Well-Designed Business” podcasts. She realized that she was serious about what she loved to do and decided to think of it as a business instead of a hobby.
  • For her third year, which was 2019, Krystle set 19 goals and wrote them down.
  • About halfway through her third year, Krystle decided to hire a business coach who pushed her to shoot for more than her $81,300 goal. She ended up exceeding her goal.
  • Krystle learned at LuAnn Live how important it was to run a business autopsy. This is critical, because you must know where you are before you can plan where you are going.
  • For 2020, Krystle assigned a specific goal to each month and is finding this very powerful.
  • One of her goals this year is to get each and every policy and procedure locked down in a handbook before she takes maternity leave.
  • The Process Leads to Profits class is packed with every tool, idea, and process you could imagine, specifically so that you have a road map to get your back-end organized. There will probably be another class late summer or fall, so if you want help with this, get on the email list to be notified. It’s worth every dime!
  • Being coached on the concept of scaling and the concept of hiring were two of Krystle’s biggest lessons.
  • Hiring a business coach is essential for accountability, advice, and helping you to see the bigger picture.
  • Krystle shares some strategies on how she continues to grow her business and some client communication tips.

Links:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action 

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Krystle!

Krystle’s Website   

Krystle’s Instagram

Krystle’s Facebook

Krystle’s Pinterest

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Previous Shows Mentioned:

Alinda Morris #429

Do Not Let Us Design For You #346

Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389

Amber De La Garza #385

Sandra Funk #02, #145, #520

Madeleine MacRae #283, #315

Amanda Berlin #420

Jenny Madden #332

Jamie Lieberman #454

Dane Austin #457

 

 

]]> 4978 no 542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder's Perspective on the Design Build Process http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/542-brad-leavitt-aft-construction-a-builders-perspective-on-the-design-build-process Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors contacted LuAnn to let her know about her experiences working with Brad Leavitt, President and Founder of AFT Construction in Arizona. Brad has the AFT Construction Podcast, and he and LuAnn have been guests on each other’s podcasts before, so it’s easy to see why Jenny gives him such high praise for being a great builder to work with. You’re sure to be impressed by Brad’s message and outlook on business, as well his obvious love and respect for interior designers. Listen in as he explains from the builder perspective all the reasons he knows that you make his projects more beautiful, more efficient, and more profitable. AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports. Show Highlights: Brad’s company will not build a home for a client that does not have an interior designer on the project. Many companies have disregard for architects and interior designers, but the architects and designers actually bring expertise and a lot of benefits to the table. Brad shares the reasons why he does not have any in-house architects or designers. It’s important to get the client onboard with understanding the importance and value of a designer. Selling points to take note of when pitching to a potential builder: Having a designer involved helps a builder be more efficient, often saving as much as 2-3 months on a project. This can represent thousands of dollars in the builder’s pocket. Having a designer involved improves a builder’s relationship with his clients. A builder can get information from the designer without having to interrupt the client’s day and this avoids the frustration of arranging meetings while a job is stopped. A huge benefit for the builder is getting published. Having a room or outdoor area styled makes a huge difference! The referral relationship is a valuable component. Businesses are built on reciprocity. Brad offers some great suggestions on how to meet builders: builder organizations, supply showrooms, networking events, and on social media. Building relationships and trust are necessary before beginning to work together. Brad has already been invited back for additional guest appearances on A Well-Designed Business! Future episodes will include a list of the Things Your Builder Wants You to Know and a list of his pet peeves. You don’t want to miss these! Stay tuned for something else you don’t want to miss: more information will be forthcoming in the next couple of months regarding a new course being taught by Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors called “Design Build for Profit”. To be notified of open registration, put your name on the list at Design Build For Profit. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Brad! Brad’s Email Brad’s Website  The AFT Construction Podcast Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Pinterest(AFT_Construction) Brad’s Facebook Brad’s LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When Your Client Wants the Finest in Luxury Appliances for Their Kitchen: Choose Monogram! Set Up Your Design Trade Account Today! FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brittany Simon #490 Circle Design Studio #380 Denise Wenacur #513     Fri, 15 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder's Perspective on the Design Build Process full 542 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors contacted LuAnn to let her know about her experiences working with Brad Leavitt, President and Founder of AFT Construction in Arizona. Brad has... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors contacted LuAnn to let her know about her experiences working with Brad Leavitt, President and Founder of AFT Construction in Arizona. Brad has the AFT Construction Podcast, and he and LuAnn have been guests on each other’s podcasts before, so it’s easy to see why Jenny gives him such high praise for being a great builder to work with. You’re sure to be impressed by Brad’s message and outlook on business, as well his obvious love and respect for interior designers. Listen in as he explains from the builder perspective all the reasons he knows that you make his projects more beautiful, more efficient, and more profitable. AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports. Show Highlights: Brad’s company will not build a home for a client that does not have an interior designer on the project. Many companies have disregard for architects and interior designers, but the architects and designers actually bring expertise and a lot of benefits to the table. Brad shares the reasons why he does not have any in-house architects or designers. It’s important to get the client onboard with understanding the importance and value of a designer. Selling points to take note of when pitching to a potential builder: Having a designer involved helps a builder be more efficient, often saving as much as 2-3 months on a project. This can represent thousands of dollars in the builder’s pocket. Having a designer involved improves a builder’s relationship with his clients. A builder can get information from the designer without having to interrupt the client’s day and this avoids the frustration of arranging meetings while a job is stopped. A huge benefit for the builder is getting published. Having a room or outdoor area styled makes a huge difference! The referral relationship is a valuable component. Businesses are built on reciprocity. Brad offers some great suggestions on how to meet builders: builder organizations, supply showrooms, networking events, and on social media. Building relationships and trust are necessary before beginning to work together. Brad has already been invited back for additional guest appearances on A Well-Designed Business! Future episodes will include a list of the Things Your Builder Wants You to Know and a list of his pet peeves. You don’t want to miss these! Stay tuned for something else you don’t want to miss: more information will be forthcoming in the next couple of months regarding a new course being taught by Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors called “Design Build for Profit”. To be notified of open registration, put your name on the list at Design Build For Profit. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara: COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Brad! Brad’s Email Brad’s Website  The AFT Construction Podcast Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction) Brad’s Pinterest(AFT_Construction) Brad’s Facebook Brad’s LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: When Your Client Wants the Finest in Luxury Appliances for Their Kitchen: Choose Monogram! Set Up Your Design Trade Account Today! FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Other shows mentioned to include in show notes: Brittany Simon #490 Circle Design Studio #380 Denise Wenacur #513     Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors contacted LuAnn to let her know about her experiences working with Brad Leavitt, President and Founder of AFT Construction in Arizona. Brad has the AFT Construction Podcast, and he and LuAnn have been guests on each other’s podcasts before, so it’s easy to see why Jenny gives him such high praise for being a great builder to work with.

You’re sure to be impressed by Brad’s message and outlook on business, as well his obvious love and respect for interior designers. Listen in as he explains from the builder perspective all the reasons he knows that you make his projects more beautiful, more efficient, and more profitable.

AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley.

His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports.




Show Highlights:

  • Brad’s company will not build a home for a client that does not have an interior designer on the project.
  • Many companies have disregard for architects and interior designers, but the architects and designers actually bring expertise and a lot of benefits to the table.
  • Brad shares the reasons why he does not have any in-house architects or designers.
  • It’s important to get the client onboard with understanding the importance and value of a designer.
  • Selling points to take note of when pitching to a potential builder:
  • Having a designer involved helps a builder be more efficient, often saving as much as 2-3 months on a project. This can represent thousands of dollars in the builder’s pocket.
  • Having a designer involved improves a builder’s relationship with his clients. A builder can get information from the designer without having to interrupt the client’s day and this avoids the frustration of arranging meetings while a job is stopped.
  • A huge benefit for the builder is getting published. Having a room or outdoor area styled makes a huge difference!
  • The referral relationship is a valuable component.
  • Businesses are built on reciprocity.
  • Brad offers some great suggestions on how to meet builders: builder organizations, supply showrooms, networking events, and on social media.
  • Building relationships and trust are necessary before beginning to work together.
  • Brad has already been invited back for additional guest appearances on A Well-Designed Business! Future episodes will include a list of the Things Your Builder Wants You to Know and a list of his pet peeves. You don’t want to miss these!
  • Stay tuned for something else you don’t want to miss: more information will be forthcoming in the next couple of months regarding a new course being taught by Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors called “Design Build for Profit”. To be notified of open registration, put your name on the list at Design Build For Profit.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara: COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Brad!

Brad’s Email

Brad’s Website 

The AFT Construction Podcast

Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Pinterest(AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Facebook

Brad’s LinkedIn

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

When Your Client Wants the Finest in Luxury Appliances for Their Kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Set Up Your Design Trade Account Today!

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to include in show notes:

Brittany Simon #490

Circle Design Studio #380

Denise Wenacur #513

 

 

]]> 3947 no 541: What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/541-what-would-lu-do-luann-answers-listener-questions Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Amanda, who has lost a couple of jobs due to the costs of freight and taxes outside of a client’s budget. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Amanda’s detailed email. Nearly the exact same thing happened to Sara Brennan last year. You must remember that you are the professional in the room. Ask clarifying questions and provide your client with the information on how your business is run so that they can make a truly informed decision. LuAnn provides an example of how to manage future budget discussions. It’s all about the clarity and agreements upfront, when no emotion is attached. LuAnn goes into more details about Sara Brennan’s similar experience. This doesn’t have to be hard, and it doesn’t have to be adversarial, but it does have to be discussed and agreed upon before you get to invoicing. Remember, no surprises and you’ll be fine!       Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday   Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!   A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:   Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Thu, 14 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions full 541 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Amanda, who has lost a couple of jobs due to the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Amanda, who has lost a couple of jobs due to the costs of freight and taxes outside of a client’s budget. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Amanda’s detailed email. Nearly the exact same thing happened to Sara Brennan last year. You must remember that you are the professional in the room. Ask clarifying questions and provide your client with the information on how your business is run so that they can make a truly informed decision. LuAnn provides an example of how to manage future budget discussions. It’s all about the clarity and agreements upfront, when no emotion is attached. LuAnn goes into more details about Sara Brennan’s similar experience. This doesn’t have to be hard, and it doesn’t have to be adversarial, but it does have to be discussed and agreed upon before you get to invoicing. Remember, no surprises and you’ll be fine!       Links / Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action    A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts   LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday   Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?  www.luannnigara.com/cob Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!   A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:   Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from listener Amanda, who has lost a couple of jobs due to the costs of freight and taxes outside of a client’s budget.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares listener Amanda’s detailed email.
  • Nearly the exact same thing happened to Sara Brennan last year.
  • You must remember that you are the professional in the room.
  • Ask clarifying questions and provide your client with the information on how your business is run so that they can make a truly informed decision.
  • LuAnn provides an example of how to manage future budget discussions.
  • It’s all about the clarity and agreements upfront, when no emotion is attached.
  • LuAnn goes into more details about Sara Brennan’s similar experience.
  • This doesn’t have to be hard, and it doesn’t have to be adversarial, but it does have to be discussed and agreed upon before you get to invoicing. Remember, no surprises and you’ll be fine!

 

 

 

Links / Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action   

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

 

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

 

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

 

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

 

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

]]> 837 no 540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/540-robin-baron-strategic-thinking-on-product-development Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest is Robin Baron, who first joined LuAnn in episode #32. Robin is a #smartlady with an incredible body of work which includes being a celebrity interior designer, lifestyle expert, and a luxury home-furnishings designer. Based in NYC, Robin always brings a striking sense of fashion and style to everything she does as a successful interior designer. Robin knows that flexibility is important, so customization is available in almost every piece in her collections. Celebrating 30 years in business Robin could have spoken on several topics but chose her strategy for designing and bringing a product to market. If you have ever dreamt about designing your own product, please, get a pen and paper for this show. Robin truly shares every aspect that you must consider before you set out on this path. Her advice is well earned and it is easy to hear the depth and breadth of her experience as a thoughtful business woman! Robin thrives on creating homes that are unique and fabulous while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere. Reflecting her motto that “Confidence Begins at Home™”, she prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities and bring positivity into their homes. Robin has significant experience on TV, video, and radio including appearing on HGTV, Bravo, and NBC and has been featured in many print and online publications. Robin is the Brand Ambassador for the NY NOW show, and also tours the country as a spokesperson, speaking to audiences at events both within the industry as well as to the public. She enjoys providing lifestyle and design tips through her award-winning blog “Simplifying Fabulous!™” and her multi-platform social media presence. Show Highlights: There are five categories of products that Robin has brought to market: Hardware Case Goods Upholstery Rugs Lighting You have to set your macro goal, and then from there, set your micro goals, which are the goals that will get you to the bigger goal. Robin addresses licensing and how it needs to be a part of your overall marketing plan because it doesn’t really make you money, initially. Robin shares some tangible advice regarding bringing a product to a market: First, analyze the need in the market for your product idea. Have you looked around to see if anyone else is providing it? Next, are you the one to fill this need? Do you have the solution? Do you have the pockets deep enough to fund your idea and take it across the finish line? Does it fit into your overall goals for yourself and your business? A ‘Robin-ism’: If you don’t take a chance, you don’t get one! You don’t have to be an extrovert to be successful, you just have to know who you are. You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with. You have to have support. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow! LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Robin! Robin’s Website Robin’s Instagram Robin’s Facebook Robin’s Twitter A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes: Robin Baron #32   Tue, 12 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development full 540 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest is Robin Baron, who first joined LuAnn in episode #32. Robin is a #smartlady with an incredible body of work which includes being a celebrity interior designer, lifestyle expert, and a luxury... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest is Robin Baron, who first joined LuAnn in episode #32. Robin is a #smartlady with an incredible body of work which includes being a celebrity interior designer, lifestyle expert, and a luxury home-furnishings designer. Based in NYC, Robin always brings a striking sense of fashion and style to everything she does as a successful interior designer. Robin knows that flexibility is important, so customization is available in almost every piece in her collections. Celebrating 30 years in business Robin could have spoken on several topics but chose her strategy for designing and bringing a product to market. If you have ever dreamt about designing your own product, please, get a pen and paper for this show. Robin truly shares every aspect that you must consider before you set out on this path. Her advice is well earned and it is easy to hear the depth and breadth of her experience as a thoughtful business woman! Robin thrives on creating homes that are unique and fabulous while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere. Reflecting her motto that “Confidence Begins at Home™”, she prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities and bring positivity into their homes. Robin has significant experience on TV, video, and radio including appearing on HGTV, Bravo, and NBC and has been featured in many print and online publications. Robin is the Brand Ambassador for the NY NOW show, and also tours the country as a spokesperson, speaking to audiences at events both within the industry as well as to the public. She enjoys providing lifestyle and design tips through her award-winning blog “Simplifying Fabulous!™” and her multi-platform social media presence. Show Highlights: There are five categories of products that Robin has brought to market: Hardware Case Goods Upholstery Rugs Lighting You have to set your macro goal, and then from there, set your micro goals, which are the goals that will get you to the bigger goal. Robin addresses licensing and how it needs to be a part of your overall marketing plan because it doesn’t really make you money, initially. Robin shares some tangible advice regarding bringing a product to a market: First, analyze the need in the market for your product idea. Have you looked around to see if anyone else is providing it? Next, are you the one to fill this need? Do you have the solution? Do you have the pockets deep enough to fund your idea and take it across the finish line? Does it fit into your overall goals for yourself and your business? A ‘Robin-ism’: If you don’t take a chance, you don’t get one! You don’t have to be an extrovert to be successful, you just have to know who you are. You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with. You have to have support. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow! LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Robin! Robin’s Website Robin’s Instagram Robin’s Facebook Robin’s Twitter A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes: Robin Baron #32   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest is Robin Baron, who first joined LuAnn in episode #32. Robin is a #smartlady with an incredible body of work which includes being a celebrity interior designer, lifestyle expert, and a luxury home-furnishings designer. Based in NYC, Robin always brings a striking sense of fashion and style to everything she does as a successful interior designer. Robin knows that flexibility is important, so customization is available in almost every piece in her collections.

Celebrating 30 years in business Robin could have spoken on several topics but chose her strategy for designing and bringing a product to market. If you have ever dreamt about designing your own product, please, get a pen and paper for this show. Robin truly shares every aspect that you must consider before you set out on this path. Her advice is well earned and it is easy to hear the depth and breadth of her experience as a thoughtful business woman!

Robin thrives on creating homes that are unique and fabulous while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere. Reflecting her motto that “Confidence Begins at Home™”, she prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities and bring positivity into their homes.

Robin has significant experience on TV, video, and radio including appearing on HGTV, Bravo, and NBC and has been featured in many print and online publications. Robin is the Brand Ambassador for the NY NOW show, and also tours the country as a spokesperson, speaking to audiences at events both within the industry as well as to the public. She enjoys providing lifestyle and design tips through her award-winning blog “Simplifying Fabulous!™” and her multi-platform social media presence.




Show Highlights:

  • There are five categories of products that Robin has brought to market:
  1. Hardware
  2. Case Goods
  3. Upholstery
  4. Rugs
  5. Lighting
  • You have to set your macro goal, and then from there, set your micro goals, which are the goals that will get you to the bigger goal.
  • Robin addresses licensing and how it needs to be a part of your overall marketing plan because it doesn’t really make you money, initially.
  • Robin shares some tangible advice regarding bringing a product to a market:
  1. First, analyze the need in the market for your product idea. Have you looked around to see if anyone else is providing it?
  2. Next, are you the one to fill this need? Do you have the solution?
  3. Do you have the pockets deep enough to fund your idea and take it across the finish line?
  4. Does it fit into your overall goals for yourself and your business?
  • A ‘Robin-ism’: If you don’t take a chance, you don’t get one!
  • You don’t have to be an extrovert to be successful, you just have to know who you are.
  • You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with. You have to have support.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow!

LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Robin!

Robin’s Website

Robin’s Instagram

Robin’s Facebook

Robin’s Twitter

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Previous Episodes:

Robin Baron #32

 

]]> 3723 no 539: Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/539-window-treatment-friday-look-to-your-window-treatment-partner-to-sell-remotely Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, joins her today to chat about some of the things that interior designers can be thinking about in relation to window treatments during this time of quarantine. Whether you’re settling nicely into virtual consultations or you can’t wait for the brick-and-mortars to open back up, you’ll want to listen in to this conversation to learn how important window treatments are to your business! Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  Show Highlights: Vita gives shout-outs to the #maskAmerica initiative and to local designer, Michele Plachter, who gave a wonderful gift to her industry partners. Remember that your window treatment specialist is your partner in this. LuAnn covers the different reasons why window treatments are important ANY time. Window treatments are: money-makers! an essential part of an interior design project! beautiful! Vita suggests that it’s time to lean into your workrooms and window treatment specialists and she shares the ways that a specialist can support an interior designer: They can provide product knowledge. They can do renderings on your pictures. They can give you a ballpark budget. Window treatment specialists: Consider offering up your services and asking your designers how you can be of value to them. Here are some great ways thats you can still incorporate window treatments into your 2020 projects: virtual consultations when presenting mood boards, remember the windows clients can take their own rough measurements #WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook. If you are not happy with your resources, now is the time to expand your reach and look for additional or alternative resources, in window treatments, or otherwise. This podcast and past episodes are excellent sources of information and resources. Vita has some encouraging words from the heart regarding our low points. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow! LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! #WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on Window Works - Facebook. To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the virtual IWCE where LuAnn To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)  To learn about Exciting Windows To learn about working with Vita: Vitalia Inc A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes Mentioned: #448   Fri, 08 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely full 539 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, joins her today to chat about some of the things that interior designers can be thinking about in relation to window treatments during this time of quarantine.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, joins her today to chat about some of the things that interior designers can be thinking about in relation to window treatments during this time of quarantine. Whether you’re settling nicely into virtual consultations or you can’t wait for the brick-and-mortars to open back up, you’ll want to listen in to this conversation to learn how important window treatments are to your business! Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  Show Highlights: Vita gives shout-outs to the #maskAmerica initiative and to local designer, Michele Plachter, who gave a wonderful gift to her industry partners. Remember that your window treatment specialist is your partner in this. LuAnn covers the different reasons why window treatments are important ANY time. Window treatments are: money-makers! an essential part of an interior design project! beautiful! Vita suggests that it’s time to lean into your workrooms and window treatment specialists and she shares the ways that a specialist can support an interior designer: They can provide product knowledge. They can do renderings on your pictures. They can give you a ballpark budget. Window treatment specialists: Consider offering up your services and asking your designers how you can be of value to them. Here are some great ways thats you can still incorporate window treatments into your 2020 projects: virtual consultations when presenting mood boards, remember the windows clients can take their own rough measurements #WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook. If you are not happy with your resources, now is the time to expand your reach and look for additional or alternative resources, in window treatments, or otherwise. This podcast and past episodes are excellent sources of information and resources. Vita has some encouraging words from the heart regarding our low points. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow! LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! #WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on Window Works - Facebook. To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the virtual IWCE where LuAnn To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)  To learn about Exciting Windows To learn about working with Vita: Vitalia Inc A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Previous Episodes Mentioned: #448   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, joins her today to chat about some of the things that interior designers can be thinking about in relation to window treatments during this time of quarantine.

Whether you’re settling nicely into virtual consultations or you can’t wait for the brick-and-mortars to open back up, you’ll want to listen in to this conversation to learn how important window treatments are to your business!

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. 

Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. 

Show Highlights:

  • Vita gives shout-outs to the #maskAmerica initiative and to local designer, Michele Plachter, who gave a wonderful gift to her industry partners.
  • Remember that your window treatment specialist is your partner in this. LuAnn covers the different reasons why window treatments are important ANY time.
  • Window treatments are:
  • money-makers!
  • an essential part of an interior design project!
  • beautiful!
  • Vita suggests that it’s time to lean into your workrooms and window treatment specialists and she shares the ways that a specialist can support an interior designer:
  • They can provide product knowledge.
  • They can do renderings on your pictures.
  • They can give you a ballpark budget.
  • Window treatment specialists: Consider offering up your services and asking your designers how you can be of value to them.
  • Here are some great ways thats you can still incorporate window treatments into your 2020 projects:
  • virtual consultations
  • when presenting mood boards, remember the windows
  • clients can take their own rough measurements
  • #WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook.
  • If you are not happy with your resources, now is the time to expand your reach and look for additional or alternative resources, in window treatments, or otherwise.
  • This podcast and past episodes are excellent sources of information and resources.
  • Vita has some encouraging words from the heart regarding our low points.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

LuAnn’s Window Works - Facebook - Please Follow!

LuAnn’s Window Works - Instagram - Please Follow!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

#WTF Live!! Vita and Kim will be discussing drapery pleats!! Friday, May 8th at 12 PM, EST on Window Works - Facebook.

To learn more about working with Window Works

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the virtual IWCE where LuAnn

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) 

To learn about Exciting Windows

To learn about working with Vita: Vitalia Inc

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Previous Episodes Mentioned:

#448

 

]]> 2929 no 538: What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/538-what-would-lu-do-luann-answers-listener-questions Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Christina, who struggles with expanding her prospects beyond client referrals. Christina is asking for tips on finding a space where she won’t be competing with architecture firms with in-house designers, and would like LuAnn’s opinion on the best social media platform. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Christina’s detailed email. Lean into the referral business because these are the best clients you can have. Look for ways to keep you referral clients engaged with you. Even when you do a fantastic job it may not be enough to make them remember you. Proudly build your referral pipeline! For more tips on how to build referrals, check out Episodes #93 and #426 with Stacey Brown Randall. Stacey is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s second book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacy’s chapter is about leveraging those A-list clients and maximizing the great work you have already delivered to them, so check it out! You may need to work smarter to grow a design firm in a rural location. Unfortunately, many architecture firms, builders, and kitchen showrooms may be laying off their in-staff designers during this economic downturn due to the coronavirus event. However, this may open the door for some freelance work and give you the chance to make an impression. Look for the local people there that can refer you to boutique commercial work. Check into organizations that have architects, property developers, builders, and commercial realtors, call each one and introduce yourself. You may need to join an organization in a larger nearby city. LuAnn suggests some additional episodes that will help Christina learn how to work with architects and builders and how to build a hospitality commercial firm. These shows are linked below. LuAnn provides a detailed overview of a potential social media strategy. For additional tips and social media strategies involving LinkedIn, please see the episodes referenced below. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Monogram - Work with Us! Monogram Other Shows Mentioned: Stacey Brown Randall #426 & #93 Susan Yeley #208 Anita Dawson #281   Judi Kieffer #276  Angela Harris #245 AJ Wilcox #219 Sara #438 Welcome, Monogram #536   Thu, 07 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions full 538 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Christina, who struggles with expanding her... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Christina, who struggles with expanding her prospects beyond client referrals. Christina is asking for tips on finding a space where she won’t be competing with architecture firms with in-house designers, and would like LuAnn’s opinion on the best social media platform. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Christina’s detailed email. Lean into the referral business because these are the best clients you can have. Look for ways to keep you referral clients engaged with you. Even when you do a fantastic job it may not be enough to make them remember you. Proudly build your referral pipeline! For more tips on how to build referrals, check out Episodes #93 and #426 with Stacey Brown Randall. Stacey is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s second book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacy’s chapter is about leveraging those A-list clients and maximizing the great work you have already delivered to them, so check it out! You may need to work smarter to grow a design firm in a rural location. Unfortunately, many architecture firms, builders, and kitchen showrooms may be laying off their in-staff designers during this economic downturn due to the coronavirus event. However, this may open the door for some freelance work and give you the chance to make an impression. Look for the local people there that can refer you to boutique commercial work. Check into organizations that have architects, property developers, builders, and commercial realtors, call each one and introduce yourself. You may need to join an organization in a larger nearby city. LuAnn suggests some additional episodes that will help Christina learn how to work with architects and builders and how to build a hospitality commercial firm. These shows are linked below. LuAnn provides a detailed overview of a potential social media strategy. For additional tips and social media strategies involving LinkedIn, please see the episodes referenced below. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Monogram - Work with Us! Monogram Other Shows Mentioned: Stacey Brown Randall #426 & #93 Susan Yeley #208 Anita Dawson #281   Judi Kieffer #276  Angela Harris #245 AJ Wilcox #219 Sara #438 Welcome, Monogram #536   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s questions come from listener Christina, who struggles with expanding her prospects beyond client referrals. Christina is asking for tips on finding a space where she won’t be competing with architecture firms with in-house designers, and would like LuAnn’s opinion on the best social media platform.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares listener Christina’s detailed email.
  • Lean into the referral business because these are the best clients you can have.
  • Look for ways to keep you referral clients engaged with you.
  • Even when you do a fantastic job it may not be enough to make them remember you.
  • Proudly build your referral pipeline!
  • For more tips on how to build referrals, check out Episodes #93 and #426 with Stacey Brown Randall. Stacey is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn’s second book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacy’s chapter is about leveraging those A-list clients and maximizing the great work you have already delivered to them, so check it out!
  • You may need to work smarter to grow a design firm in a rural location.
  • Unfortunately, many architecture firms, builders, and kitchen showrooms may be laying off their in-staff designers during this economic downturn due to the coronavirus event. However, this may open the door for some freelance work and give you the chance to make an impression.
  • Look for the local people there that can refer you to boutique commercial work. Check into organizations that have architects, property developers, builders, and commercial realtors, call each one and introduce yourself.
  • You may need to join an organization in a larger nearby city.
  • LuAnn suggests some additional episodes that will help Christina learn how to work with architects and builders and how to build a hospitality commercial firm. These shows are linked below.
  • LuAnn provides a detailed overview of a potential social media strategy. For additional tips and social media strategies involving LinkedIn, please see the episodes referenced below.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Monogram - Work with Us!

Monogram

Other Shows Mentioned:

Stacey Brown Randall #426 & #93

Susan Yeley #208

Anita Dawson #281  

Judi Kieffer #276 

Angela Harris #245

AJ Wilcox #219

Sara #438

Welcome, Monogram #536

 

]]> 989 no 537: Nicole McGuire: Design + Build + Property Development http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/537-nicole-mcguire-design-build-property-development Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Just wait until you meet today’s guest, Nicole McGuire. Every word of her bio is expressed in every word of her conversation, and in LuAnn’s eyes, that makes Nicole one #smartlady. If you don’t epitomize your written bio, this conversation will make you rethink yours! Listen in, as Nicole has some great tips and lessons for us all. You’ll notice right away that she is clearly a business woman running a design firm. Passion and drive define Nicole.  These traits have been foundational to her success in the highly intense and competitive building market.  She is a visionary leader and disrupter of the status quo. Nicole is a gifted conceptual thinker with strengths in strategic planning, team leadership, mentoring, and community outreach.  She has actively worked to create space for women to be empowered and given leadership opportunities within the design and construction industry. Nicole was raised in a home building family, but she has never been one to rest on legacy.  After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Nicole partnered with her father, the late Jeff McGuire, to begin a new venture, building spec homes, and eventually creating unmatched custom homes and personally curated design pieces, all available within the McGuire Homes Collection.  Nicole has continued to dive deeper into best practices for the industry, even studying Sustainable Business Strategy at Harvard University- expanding her business through social and environmental sustainability standards. Show Highlights: A custom home-building company, McGuire Homes, is the foundation of all of their businesses. Nicole’s passions are in design and bringing women into construction leadership roles. She started Nicole McGuire Design Studio as another revenue stream, giving her the opportunity to sell all of the products, the finished materials, that go into a new construction home or a remodel, back to themselves. This includes cabinetry, flooring, lighting, and furniture. McGuire Development Group is a company that holds homes that are hire-in leases to professionals. The homes come furnished, unfurnished, or a full executive rental, as well. Nicole shares a mistake they made in 2019 and how they have been correcting it. Stay focused on your core business, she suggests. Nicole details her marketing philosophy. All about Around the House with Nicole McGuire. Nicole provides advice about how to get your own show! Communication between her clients, her design team, her build team and herself is extremely important, and Nicole does it all within project management software. Nicole describes the three different mood boards that clients get, and why. Getting clients on board with “important” vs. “urgent”. One of the biggest challenges is managing client expectations. If you have a question that you’d like LuAnn to answer- go to wwld and she’ll answer yours on air in the coming weeks. There’s a new episode of WTF this week with Vita! Also on Friday at 12:00 noon, EST Vita and Kim will be going live on LuAnn’s Window Works FB, talking tips, and design for custom window treatments. Please follow Window Works too, both on FB and IG, and be sure to join WTF Live every Friday on FB. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Luann Live LuAnn Nigara WWLD Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Nicole! Nicole’s Website   Nicole’s Instagram  #mymcguire Nicole’s Facebook Nicole’s Pinterest See Nicole’s tips here! Around the House with Nicole McGuire Nicole has also given talks at University of Illinois and women’s groups on the subjects of construction, design, and business. A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: awdb10 Kravet   Tue, 05 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Nicole McGuire: Design + Build + Property Development full 537 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Just wait until you meet today’s guest, Nicole McGuire. Every word of her bio is expressed in every word of her conversation, and in LuAnn’s eyes, that makes Nicole one #smartlady. If you don’t epitomize your... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Just wait until you meet today’s guest, Nicole McGuire. Every word of her bio is expressed in every word of her conversation, and in LuAnn’s eyes, that makes Nicole one #smartlady. If you don’t epitomize your written bio, this conversation will make you rethink yours! Listen in, as Nicole has some great tips and lessons for us all. You’ll notice right away that she is clearly a business woman running a design firm. Passion and drive define Nicole.  These traits have been foundational to her success in the highly intense and competitive building market.  She is a visionary leader and disrupter of the status quo. Nicole is a gifted conceptual thinker with strengths in strategic planning, team leadership, mentoring, and community outreach.  She has actively worked to create space for women to be empowered and given leadership opportunities within the design and construction industry. Nicole was raised in a home building family, but she has never been one to rest on legacy.  After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Nicole partnered with her father, the late Jeff McGuire, to begin a new venture, building spec homes, and eventually creating unmatched custom homes and personally curated design pieces, all available within the McGuire Homes Collection.  Nicole has continued to dive deeper into best practices for the industry, even studying Sustainable Business Strategy at Harvard University- expanding her business through social and environmental sustainability standards. Show Highlights: A custom home-building company, McGuire Homes, is the foundation of all of their businesses. Nicole’s passions are in design and bringing women into construction leadership roles. She started Nicole McGuire Design Studio as another revenue stream, giving her the opportunity to sell all of the products, the finished materials, that go into a new construction home or a remodel, back to themselves. This includes cabinetry, flooring, lighting, and furniture. McGuire Development Group is a company that holds homes that are hire-in leases to professionals. The homes come furnished, unfurnished, or a full executive rental, as well. Nicole shares a mistake they made in 2019 and how they have been correcting it. Stay focused on your core business, she suggests. Nicole details her marketing philosophy. All about Around the House with Nicole McGuire. Nicole provides advice about how to get your own show! Communication between her clients, her design team, her build team and herself is extremely important, and Nicole does it all within project management software. Nicole describes the three different mood boards that clients get, and why. Getting clients on board with “important” vs. “urgent”. One of the biggest challenges is managing client expectations. If you have a question that you’d like LuAnn to answer- go to wwld and she’ll answer yours on air in the coming weeks. There’s a new episode of WTF this week with Vita! Also on Friday at 12:00 noon, EST Vita and Kim will be going live on LuAnn’s Window Works FB, talking tips, and design for custom window treatments. Please follow Window Works too, both on FB and IG, and be sure to join WTF Live every Friday on FB. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Luann Live LuAnn Nigara WWLD Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Nicole! Nicole’s Website   Nicole’s Instagram  #mymcguire Nicole’s Facebook Nicole’s Pinterest See Nicole’s tips here! Around the House with Nicole McGuire Nicole has also given talks at University of Illinois and women’s groups on the subjects of construction, design, and business. A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: awdb10 Kravet   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Just wait until you meet today’s guest, Nicole McGuire. Every word of her bio is expressed in every word of her conversation, and in LuAnn’s eyes, that makes Nicole one #smartlady. If you don’t epitomize your written bio, this conversation will make you rethink yours!

Listen in, as Nicole has some great tips and lessons for us all. You’ll notice right away that she is clearly a business woman running a design firm.

Passion and drive define Nicole.  These traits have been foundational to her success in the highly intense and competitive building market.  She is a visionary leader and disrupter of the status quo. Nicole is a gifted conceptual thinker with strengths in strategic planning, team leadership, mentoring, and community outreach.  She has actively worked to create space for women to be empowered and given leadership opportunities within the design and construction industry.

Nicole was raised in a home building family, but she has never been one to rest on legacy.  After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Nicole partnered with her father, the late Jeff McGuire, to begin a new venture, building spec homes, and eventually creating unmatched custom homes and personally curated design pieces, all available within the McGuire Homes Collection.  Nicole has continued to dive deeper into best practices for the industry, even studying Sustainable Business Strategy at Harvard University- expanding her business through social and environmental sustainability standards.


Show Highlights:

  • A custom home-building company, McGuire Homes, is the foundation of all of their businesses.
  • Nicole’s passions are in design and bringing women into construction leadership roles.
  • She started Nicole McGuire Design Studio as another revenue stream, giving her the opportunity to sell all of the products, the finished materials, that go into a new construction home or a remodel, back to themselves. This includes cabinetry, flooring, lighting, and furniture.
  • McGuire Development Group is a company that holds homes that are hire-in leases to professionals. The homes come furnished, unfurnished, or a full executive rental, as well.
  • Nicole shares a mistake they made in 2019 and how they have been correcting it. Stay focused on your core business, she suggests.
  • Nicole details her marketing philosophy.
  • All about Around the House with Nicole McGuire. Nicole provides advice about how to get your own show!
  • Communication between her clients, her design team, her build team and herself is extremely important, and Nicole does it all within project management software.
  • Nicole describes the three different mood boards that clients get, and why.
  • Getting clients on board with “important” vs. “urgent”.
  • One of the biggest challenges is managing client expectations.
  • If you have a question that you’d like LuAnn to answer- go to wwld and she’ll answer yours on air in the coming weeks.
  • There’s a new episode of WTF this week with Vita! Also on Friday at 12:00 noon, EST Vita and Kim will be going live on LuAnn’s Window Works FB, talking tips, and design for custom window treatments. Please follow Window Works too, both on FB and IG, and be sure to join WTF Live every Friday on FB.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Luann Live

LuAnn Nigara WWLD

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Nicole!

Nicole’s Website  

Nicole’s Instagram  #mymcguire

Nicole’s Facebook

Nicole’s Pinterest

See Nicole’s tips here! Around the House with Nicole McGuire

Nicole has also given talks at University of Illinois and women’s groups on the subjects of construction, design, and business.

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim!

Use Code at Checkout: awdb10

Kravet

 

]]> 4752 no 536: Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/536-monogram-appliances-robert-koller-and-alexandra-skobel Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guests today are Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel with Monogram, a new sponsor of the podcast. Monogram was also a valued sponsor of the recent 19hours virtual event sponsored by Mydoma Studio. You’re going to love the energy that comes out of Monogram and its team members, so listen in meet Rob and Alex and learn more about what Monogram has to offer you! Rob is the Senior Brand Manager for Monogram and Alex is the Senior Manager of the Monogram Design Center. Show Highlights: Alex shares the company mission. Monogram is the luxury line of appliances for GE and has been in the business for more than 33 years. Monogram launched two new collections earlier this year: Their Minimalist collection and their Statement The appliances offered include built-ins, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, wall ovens, and 48-inch ranges. A “built-in” means that an appliance is built into the cabinetry around it. A built-in often has custom exterior panels, which gives an integrated, seamless look to your kitchen. In 1987, Monogram was the first luxury brand to create a full built-in package for their clients. Rob shares his background in Food and Beverage, and what excites him about the time he’s spent at Monogram. Monogram performed extensive research before putting pen to paper on their latest designs. After careful consideration, they developed three main pillars to support their new look and feel: Materials, Performance, and Ownership. Each of these upholds their commitment to high quality, innovation, and their ongoing relationships with designers and consumers. Through these pillars and their new collections, they've created a luxury brand experience that you can see and feel for yourself.   “Social Currency” - Something to talk about with your friends! Monogram has a couple of programs specifically set up for the designer community to educate them on the Monogram products. Resellers (and there are over 1,100!) have updated displays and presentations. You can see, touch, and feel! The flagship showroom in Chicago is open to the public Monday through Saturday. The showroom does not sell the products, but directs the inquiries to the local Monogram sales manager if it’s outside of Chicago. If a designer is registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, they get to extend preferred-builder pricing to the client, which is a great discount. If a designer is NOT registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, then the client would be using the rebate. There are 3 tiers where the clients qualify for free items with certain purchases. Engineering details make all the difference in the design and ease-of-use of the appliances for the consumer. “Monogram Talks” - a webinar series that will be launching the first week of May! Different technologies are incorporated into the Monogram appliances. Designers, when you introduce luxury items into your projects it benefits your profitability! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Monogram! Monogram’s Website    Monogram’s Instagram  Monogram’s YouTube A Big THANK YOU to The Podcast Sponsor: Monogram - Work with Us!     Fri, 01 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel full 536 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guests today are Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel with Monogram, a new sponsor of the podcast. Monogram was also a valued sponsor of the recent 19hours virtual event sponsored by Mydoma Studio. You’re... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guests today are Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel with Monogram, a new sponsor of the podcast. Monogram was also a valued sponsor of the recent 19hours virtual event sponsored by Mydoma Studio. You’re going to love the energy that comes out of Monogram and its team members, so listen in meet Rob and Alex and learn more about what Monogram has to offer you! Rob is the Senior Brand Manager for Monogram and Alex is the Senior Manager of the Monogram Design Center. Show Highlights: Alex shares the company mission. Monogram is the luxury line of appliances for GE and has been in the business for more than 33 years. Monogram launched two new collections earlier this year: Their Minimalist collection and their Statement The appliances offered include built-ins, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, wall ovens, and 48-inch ranges. A “built-in” means that an appliance is built into the cabinetry around it. A built-in often has custom exterior panels, which gives an integrated, seamless look to your kitchen. In 1987, Monogram was the first luxury brand to create a full built-in package for their clients. Rob shares his background in Food and Beverage, and what excites him about the time he’s spent at Monogram. Monogram performed extensive research before putting pen to paper on their latest designs. After careful consideration, they developed three main pillars to support their new look and feel: Materials, Performance, and Ownership. Each of these upholds their commitment to high quality, innovation, and their ongoing relationships with designers and consumers. Through these pillars and their new collections, they've created a luxury brand experience that you can see and feel for yourself.   “Social Currency” - Something to talk about with your friends! Monogram has a couple of programs specifically set up for the designer community to educate them on the Monogram products. Resellers (and there are over 1,100!) have updated displays and presentations. You can see, touch, and feel! The flagship showroom in Chicago is open to the public Monday through Saturday. The showroom does not sell the products, but directs the inquiries to the local Monogram sales manager if it’s outside of Chicago. If a designer is registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, they get to extend preferred-builder pricing to the client, which is a great discount. If a designer is NOT registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, then the client would be using the rebate. There are 3 tiers where the clients qualify for free items with certain purchases. Engineering details make all the difference in the design and ease-of-use of the appliances for the consumer. “Monogram Talks” - a webinar series that will be launching the first week of May! Different technologies are incorporated into the Monogram appliances. Designers, when you introduce luxury items into your projects it benefits your profitability! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB LuAnn Live Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Connect with Monogram! Monogram’s Website    Monogram’s Instagram  Monogram’s YouTube A Big THANK YOU to The Podcast Sponsor: Monogram - Work with Us!     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guests today are Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel with Monogram, a new sponsor of the podcast. Monogram was also a valued sponsor of the recent 19hours virtual event sponsored by Mydoma Studio.

You’re going to love the energy that comes out of Monogram and its team members, so listen in meet Rob and Alex and learn more about what Monogram has to offer you!

Rob is the Senior Brand Manager for Monogram and Alex is the Senior Manager of the Monogram Design Center.



Show Highlights:

  • Alex shares the company mission.
  • Monogram is the luxury line of appliances for GE and has been in the business for more than 33 years.
  • Monogram launched two new collections earlier this year: Their Minimalist collection and their Statement
  • The appliances offered include built-ins, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, wall ovens, and 48-inch ranges.
  • A “built-in” means that an appliance is built into the cabinetry around it. A built-in often has custom exterior panels, which gives an integrated, seamless look to your kitchen.
  • In 1987, Monogram was the first luxury brand to create a full built-in package for their clients.
  • Rob shares his background in Food and Beverage, and what excites him about the time he’s spent at Monogram.
  • Monogram performed extensive research before putting pen to paper on their latest designs. After careful consideration, they developed three main pillars to support their new look and feel: Materials, Performance, and Ownership. Each of these upholds their commitment to high quality, innovation, and their ongoing relationships with designers and consumers. Through these pillars and their new collections, they've created a luxury brand experience that you can see and feel for yourself.  
  • “Social Currency” - Something to talk about with your friends!
  • Monogram has a couple of programs specifically set up for the designer community to educate them on the Monogram products.
  • Resellers (and there are over 1,100!) have updated displays and presentations. You can see, touch, and feel!
  • The flagship showroom in Chicago is open to the public Monday through Saturday.
  • The showroom does not sell the products, but directs the inquiries to the local Monogram sales manager if it’s outside of Chicago.
  • If a designer is registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, they get to extend preferred-builder pricing to the client, which is a great discount.
  • If a designer is NOT registered for Monogram’s Rewards Program, then the client would be using the rebate. There are 3 tiers where the clients qualify for free items with certain purchases.
  • Engineering details make all the difference in the design and ease-of-use of the appliances for the consumer.
  • “Monogram Talks” - a webinar series that will be launching the first week of May!
  • Different technologies are incorporated into the Monogram appliances.
  • Designers, when you introduce luxury items into your projects it benefits your profitability!

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Monogram!

Monogram’s Website   

Monogram’s Instagram 

Monogram’s YouTube

A Big THANK YOU to The Podcast Sponsor:

Monogram - Work with Us!

 

 

]]> 3217 no 535: What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/535-what-would-lu-do-luann-answers-listener-questions Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Samantha, who would like some suggestions on how to find income when your projects have been put on hold during this COVID-19 event, the top ten recommended processes and systems to be putting in place, and the best practices for social media presence when you have no active projects. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Sam’s detailed email. Sam’s professional focus is mostly on hospitality design (9) but also residential (1). All ten projects are on hold, and she’s looking for suggestions on how to pull in income. LuAnn’s advice is to weather the storm for the time being and offers lots of great ideas that Sam can work on right now to successfully position herself for when things open up. Sam would like to know the top ten processes and systems that she needs to put in place. LuAnn offers 3 prerequisites and promises the other 7 when the first 3 are firmly in place. The first 3 are: bookkeeping, reviewing or creating a solid contract, and designing a thorough work flow. What level of social media presence is appropriate during Sam’s work lull? Recycle old pics with a new spin or a new caption, but avoid stating that it’s from an old project or that you’re not currently working on a project. Definitely post on SM to drum up business while not busy. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Suggested Podcast: Darla Powell’s podcast, Wingnut Social A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other Shows Mentioned: #292 Summer Tannhauser #331 Kate Ahl #487 Vanessa Shepherd #20 Arianne Bellizaire #201 Dorien Morin van Dam, #237 Claire Jefford #516 Jude Charles #514 Sara Brennan #470 Christine Lin   Thu, 30 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Answers Listener Questions full 535 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Samantha, who would like some suggestions on how... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s questions come from listener Samantha, who would like some suggestions on how to find income when your projects have been put on hold during this COVID-19 event, the top ten recommended processes and systems to be putting in place, and the best practices for social media presence when you have no active projects. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions. If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares listener Sam’s detailed email. Sam’s professional focus is mostly on hospitality design (9) but also residential (1). All ten projects are on hold, and she’s looking for suggestions on how to pull in income. LuAnn’s advice is to weather the storm for the time being and offers lots of great ideas that Sam can work on right now to successfully position herself for when things open up. Sam would like to know the top ten processes and systems that she needs to put in place. LuAnn offers 3 prerequisites and promises the other 7 when the first 3 are firmly in place. The first 3 are: bookkeeping, reviewing or creating a solid contract, and designing a thorough work flow. What level of social media presence is appropriate during Sam’s work lull? Recycle old pics with a new spin or a new caption, but avoid stating that it’s from an old project or that you’re not currently working on a project. Definitely post on SM to drum up business while not busy. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner? Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out! Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey! Suggested Podcast: Darla Powell’s podcast, Wingnut Social A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Other Shows Mentioned: #292 Summer Tannhauser #331 Kate Ahl #487 Vanessa Shepherd #20 Arianne Bellizaire #201 Dorien Morin van Dam, #237 Claire Jefford #516 Jude Charles #514 Sara Brennan #470 Christine Lin   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s questions come from listener Samantha, who would like some suggestions on how to find income when your projects have been put on hold during this COVID-19 event, the top ten recommended processes and systems to be putting in place, and the best practices for social media presence when you have no active projects.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara: WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares listener Sam’s detailed email.
  • Sam’s professional focus is mostly on hospitality design (9) but also residential (1). All ten projects are on hold, and she’s looking for suggestions on how to pull in income.
  • LuAnn’s advice is to weather the storm for the time being and offers lots of great ideas that Sam can work on right now to successfully position herself for when things open up.
  • Sam would like to know the top ten processes and systems that she needs to put in place.
  • LuAnn offers 3 prerequisites and promises the other 7 when the first 3 are firmly in place.
  • The first 3 are: bookkeeping, reviewing or creating a solid contract, and designing a thorough work flow.
  • What level of social media presence is appropriate during Sam’s work lull?
  • Recycle old pics with a new spin or a new caption, but avoid stating that it’s from an old project or that you’re not currently working on a project.
  • Definitely post on SM to drum up business while not busy.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Suggested Podcast:

Darla Powell’s podcast, Wingnut Social

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch’s motorized Briza collection is the perfect answer to high-end drapery treatments. Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#292 Summer Tannhauser

#331 Kate Ahl

#487 Vanessa Shepherd

#20 Arianne Bellizaire

#201 Dorien Morin van Dam,

#237 Claire Jefford

#516 Jude Charles

#514 Sara Brennan

#470 Christine Lin

 

]]> 1410 no 534: Collective Interiors: An Innovative Collaboration Breaks New Ground http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/534-collective-interiors-an-innovative-collaboration-breaks-new-ground Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! LuAnn welcomes Stephanie Castillo, the principal of Rumble Interiors, back to the show. Stephanie was a guest on Episode #391, as well, and is joined by Renee Fyall of D. Marie Interiors and Sam Mikel of Nest Design Studio. These ladies are all interior designers, doing business in the city of Ellensburg, Washington. Ellensburg is a rather small city of just 20,000 people and sort of between Portland and Seattle. Wait until you learn what these 3 #smartladies have created! Listen in to hear how these three interior designers chose to be open-minded, innovative entrepreneurs rather than wary competitors. Together, they form what’s known as Collective Interiors. You’re going to find their story fascinating! Stephanie Castillo: Rumble Interiors Communicator, observer, entrepreneur and creative...... Stephanie has been in a creative field her whole working career. Stephanie started Rumble Interiors as an extension of her success as a hair designer. Design, balance and harmony are built into everything Rumble Interiors embodies. Stephanie's ability to design a space comes naturally and her passion lives in her strength to envision a space for the people who live in it. Rumble Interiors specializes in taking your home or room from uninspired to a unique, inviting warm space that speaks to the people who live in it. Whether it's a Re-Style which is taking what you already have and Re-thinking, Re-imagining and Re-vamping your space; or a complete home decoration with results that reflect your world refined. Stephanie's special talent comes in the form of helping people define their design style, the consultation technique is one of her favorite parts of the process. Renee Fyall: D. Marie Interiors When it comes to Interior Design Renee joins function with aesthetics seamlessly on projects both big and small. With over 10 years’ experience, much of her career has been focused on project management. With an eye for quality, superior sense of style, Renee assures the space functionality is forefront, including the project running smoothly and on budget while still creating a beautiful and inviting space. Kitchen design and kitchen remodeling have become a large part of Renee’s focus and priority throughout her time as a Designer. She possesses an innate desire to create and design Interiors that exceed clients’ expectations. As many of us spend a large amount of our time in the kitchen, it’s important to Renee? that she delivers? a return on the investment as the kitchen is the best place in the house to add value, both in design and function. Sam Mikel: Nest Design Studio Design is a bastion of individuality and creativity.  However, as with other creative endeavors, the gap between one’s inner vision and its ultimate expression can be vast.  The function of the professional designer is to help you bridge that chasm.  By asking questions and listening attentively, a good designer can help you explore your needs and wishes and define and create the possibilities in your heart and mind.  As a wise man once noted, “limitations live only in our minds.  But if we use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless."  Sam’s goal as a designer is simply to help you make the best use of your imagination. Open communication throughout the design process helps develop trust and a comfortable, working relationship.  Building on your input, Sam’s job is to guide your consideration of such elements as your home’s existing features, the sources of light, and the function required of each space to best define and create your individual style.  Working collaboratively with her clients, she strives to create warm and inspired rooms—unique spaces that tell your own personal story in a timeless way.  Managing every detail from conception to completion, Sam’s aim is always to create an ambiance that reflects your taste and unique lifestyle. In every project she undertakes, she strives to be budget-conscious.  Also, whenever possible, she tries to incorporate eco-friendly green products and materials. Show Highlights: Stephanie shares how she met Renee and Sam, how the three of them worked over the idea of sharing a collective space, and their result. “Glorified space sharing” is their business model: Collective Interiors is a building, and inside of this are their three businesses. Stephanie and Renee share an office, and Sam has her own office. Sam is also the main leaseholder and she has retail space there. Collective Interiors is a interior design / decor / full-scale store. Renee relates the reaction she had to Stephanie’s request for coffee and mentorship, and how she appreciates directness. Sam describes her passion for her retail store and her love for people. Ways they make their collaboration successful. Mutual trust helps to make this business model work. Re-evaluation, as they grow and learn, is necessary. How their lives have been enriched since the inception of Collective Interiors. Guidance for others that might be interested in the same kind of business model. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Connect with Stephanie Castillo! Rumble Interiors Website Connect with Renee Fyall! Marie Interiors Website Connect with Sam! Nest Design Studio Website A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Jaipur Living - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other Shows Mentioned: Stephanie Castillo / Rumble Interiors #391 Lori Paranjape # 344   Tue, 28 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Collective Interiors: An Innovative Collaboration Breaks New Ground full 534 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! LuAnn welcomes Stephanie Castillo, the principal of Rumble Interiors, back to the show. Stephanie was a guest on Episode #391, as well, and is joined by Renee Fyall of D. Marie... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! LuAnn welcomes Stephanie Castillo, the principal of Rumble Interiors, back to the show. Stephanie was a guest on Episode #391, as well, and is joined by Renee Fyall of D. Marie Interiors and Sam Mikel of Nest Design Studio. These ladies are all interior designers, doing business in the city of Ellensburg, Washington. Ellensburg is a rather small city of just 20,000 people and sort of between Portland and Seattle. Wait until you learn what these 3 #smartladies have created! Listen in to hear how these three interior designers chose to be open-minded, innovative entrepreneurs rather than wary competitors. Together, they form what’s known as Collective Interiors. You’re going to find their story fascinating! Stephanie Castillo: Rumble Interiors Communicator, observer, entrepreneur and creative...... Stephanie has been in a creative field her whole working career. Stephanie started Rumble Interiors as an extension of her success as a hair designer. Design, balance and harmony are built into everything Rumble Interiors embodies. Stephanie's ability to design a space comes naturally and her passion lives in her strength to envision a space for the people who live in it. Rumble Interiors specializes in taking your home or room from uninspired to a unique, inviting warm space that speaks to the people who live in it. Whether it's a Re-Style which is taking what you already have and Re-thinking, Re-imagining and Re-vamping your space; or a complete home decoration with results that reflect your world refined. Stephanie's special talent comes in the form of helping people define their design style, the consultation technique is one of her favorite parts of the process. Renee Fyall: D. Marie Interiors When it comes to Interior Design Renee joins function with aesthetics seamlessly on projects both big and small. With over 10 years’ experience, much of her career has been focused on project management. With an eye for quality, superior sense of style, Renee assures the space functionality is forefront, including the project running smoothly and on budget while still creating a beautiful and inviting space. Kitchen design and kitchen remodeling have become a large part of Renee’s focus and priority throughout her time as a Designer. She possesses an innate desire to create and design Interiors that exceed clients’ expectations. As many of us spend a large amount of our time in the kitchen, it’s important to Renee? that she delivers? a return on the investment as the kitchen is the best place in the house to add value, both in design and function. Sam Mikel: Nest Design Studio Design is a bastion of individuality and creativity.  However, as with other creative endeavors, the gap between one’s inner vision and its ultimate expression can be vast.  The function of the professional designer is to help you bridge that chasm.  By asking questions and listening attentively, a good designer can help you explore your needs and wishes and define and create the possibilities in your heart and mind.  As a wise man once noted, “limitations live only in our minds.  But if we use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless."  Sam’s goal as a designer is simply to help you make the best use of your imagination. Open communication throughout the design process helps develop trust and a comfortable, working relationship.  Building on your input, Sam’s job is to guide your consideration of such elements as your home’s existing features, the sources of light, and the function required of each space to best define and create your individual style.  Working collaboratively with her clients, she strives to create warm and inspired rooms—unique spaces that tell your own personal story in a timeless way.  Managing every detail from conception to completion, Sam’s aim is always to create an ambiance that reflects your taste and unique lifestyle. In every project she undertakes, she strives to be budget-conscious.  Also, whenever possible, she tries to incorporate eco-friendly green products and materials. Show Highlights: Stephanie shares how she met Renee and Sam, how the three of them worked over the idea of sharing a collective space, and their result. “Glorified space sharing” is their business model: Collective Interiors is a building, and inside of this are their three businesses. Stephanie and Renee share an office, and Sam has her own office. Sam is also the main leaseholder and she has retail space there. Collective Interiors is a interior design / decor / full-scale store. Renee relates the reaction she had to Stephanie’s request for coffee and mentorship, and how she appreciates directness. Sam describes her passion for her retail store and her love for people. Ways they make their collaboration successful. Mutual trust helps to make this business model work. Re-evaluation, as they grow and learn, is necessary. How their lives have been enriched since the inception of Collective Interiors. Guidance for others that might be interested in the same kind of business model. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Connect with Stephanie Castillo! Rumble Interiors Website Connect with Renee Fyall! Marie Interiors Website Connect with Sam! Nest Design Studio Website A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service! Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative: Kravet Jaipur Living - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Other Shows Mentioned: Stephanie Castillo / Rumble Interiors #391 Lori Paranjape # 344   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Are you in for a treat today! LuAnn welcomes

Stephanie Castillo, the principal of Rumble Interiors, back to the show. Stephanie was a guest on Episode #391, as well, and is joined by Renee Fyall of D. Marie Interiors and Sam Mikel of Nest Design Studio. These ladies are all interior designers, doing business in the city of Ellensburg, Washington. Ellensburg is a rather small city of just 20,000 people and sort of between Portland and Seattle. Wait until you learn what these 3 #smartladies have created!

Listen in to hear how these three interior designers chose to be open-minded, innovative entrepreneurs rather than wary competitors. Together, they form what’s known as Collective Interiors. You’re going to find their story fascinating!

Stephanie Castillo: Rumble Interiors

Communicator, observer, entrepreneur and creative...... Stephanie has been in a creative field her whole working career. Stephanie started Rumble Interiors as an extension of her success as a hair designer.

Design, balance and harmony are built into everything Rumble Interiors embodies. Stephanie's ability to design a space comes naturally and her passion lives in her strength to envision a space for the people who live in it.

Rumble Interiors specializes in taking your home or room from uninspired to a unique, inviting warm space that speaks to the people who live in it. Whether it's a Re-Style which is taking what you already have and Re-thinking, Re-imagining and Re-vamping your space; or a complete home decoration with results that reflect your world refined. Stephanie's special talent comes in the form of helping people define their design style, the consultation technique is one of her favorite parts of the process.

Renee Fyall: D. Marie Interiors

When it comes to Interior Design Renee joins function with aesthetics seamlessly on projects both big and small. With over 10 years’ experience, much of her career has been focused on project management. With an eye for quality, superior sense of style, Renee assures the space functionality is forefront, including the project running smoothly and on budget while still creating a beautiful and inviting space.

Kitchen design and kitchen remodeling have become a large part of Renee’s focus and priority throughout her time as a Designer. She possesses an innate desire to create and design Interiors that exceed clients’ expectations. As many of us spend a large amount of our time in the kitchen, it’s important to Renee? that she delivers? a return on the investment as the kitchen is the best place in the house to add value, both in design and function.

Sam Mikel: Nest Design Studio

Design is a bastion of individuality and creativity.  However, as with other creative endeavors, the gap between one’s inner vision and its ultimate expression can be vast.  The function of the professional designer is to help you bridge that chasm.  By asking questions and listening attentively, a good designer can help you explore your needs and wishes and define and create the possibilities in your heart and mind.  As a wise man once noted, “limitations live only in our minds.  But if we use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless."  Sam’s goal as a designer is simply to help you make the best use of your imagination. Open communication throughout the design process helps develop trust and a comfortable, working relationship.  Building on your input, Sam’s job is to guide your consideration of such elements as your home’s existing features, the sources of light, and the function required of each space to best define and create your individual style. 

Working collaboratively with her clients, she strives to create warm and inspired rooms—unique spaces that tell your own personal story in a timeless way.  Managing every detail from conception to completion, Sam’s aim is always to create an ambiance that reflects your taste and unique lifestyle.

In every project she undertakes, she strives to be budget-conscious.  Also, whenever possible, she tries to incorporate eco-friendly green products and materials.

Show Highlights:

  • Stephanie shares how she met Renee and Sam, how the three of them worked over the idea of sharing a collective space, and their result.
  • “Glorified space sharing” is their business model: Collective Interiors is a building, and inside of this are their three businesses.
  • Stephanie and Renee share an office, and Sam has her own office. Sam is also the main leaseholder and she has retail space there. Collective Interiors is a interior design / decor / full-scale store.
  • Renee relates the reaction she had to Stephanie’s request for coffee and mentorship, and how she appreciates directness.
  • Sam describes her passion for her retail store and her love for people.
  • Ways they make their collaboration successful.
  • Mutual trust helps to make this business model work.
  • Re-evaluation, as they grow and learn, is necessary.
  • How their lives have been enriched since the inception of Collective Interiors.
  • Guidance for others that might be interested in the same kind of business model.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Connect with Stephanie Castillo!

Rumble Interiors Website

Connect with Renee Fyall!

  1. Marie Interiors Website

Connect with Sam!

Nest Design Studio Website

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

Jaipur Living - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other Shows Mentioned:

Stephanie Castillo / Rumble Interiors #391

Lori Paranjape # 344

 

]]> 3284 no 533: Power Talk Friday: Katie Krimitsos: Listening to Ourselves http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/533-power-talk-friday-katie-krimitsos-listening-to-ourselves Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Katie Krimitsos, Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. The last time that Katie was featured on A Well-Designed Business on episode 253, she was the fearless leader of the Biz Women Rock community. Listen in to catch up with all that’s been going on with Katie since her newest endeavor. She truly has a passion to help you become your best you, and if this current Corona Virus event has left you a bit more fearful than usual, you’ll want to hear about guided meditations that can help you feel more centered in this anxiety-ridden environment. Katie Krimitsos is Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. She is also a mom, wife, adventurer, podcaster, seeker, and change maker.  She's committed to brightening the light of women around the world through the Women’s Meditation Network, which provides guided meditations and related resources specifically created with the special journey of women in mind. She’s passionate about giving women the tools, strategies, and inspiration to live lives they truly love. She loves the water, the sound of her two girls laughing with each other, and is constantly evolving to make her life and the lives of others as magical as possible.  Show Highlights: Katie shares her compelling story of how the Women’s Meditation Network came about. Women naturally have a beautiful light but they are often dimmed by self-doubt or comparison. Katie is not a meditation teacher, but she does give women the TOOL of meditation to help them learn more about themselves and learn how to deal with life’s troubling moments. Meditation doesn’t mean having a blank mind. It’s about managing your thoughts, which is crucial to master in both your personal and business lives. Meditation helps you to distinguish between, “What’s the noise?” versus “What’s the voice?”. Stop and set aside the fear of what is and what could be. Then reflect on what you can do or how you can help. How are you uniquely qualified to help your clients right now? What you choose to do and how you choose to show up right now might not pay “right now”, but if you lead with love and do the right thing, it will pay a thousand-fold in the future. Katie describes the ease of using her 5-20 minute, guided meditations and she also has a sleep bundle. LuAnn points out that research backs up the physiological benefits of meditation. It’s so important to tap in and understand what’s really best for us at this moment and how we can best serve others. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Connect with Katie! Katie’s Website Subscribe HERE to get FREE weekly meditations! Start the 7 Day Meditation ChallengeHERE! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Mentioned Episodes: Katie's other appearance on the show #253   Fri, 24 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Katie Krimitsos: Listening to Ourselves full 533 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Katie Krimitsos, Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. The last time that Katie was featured on A Well-Designed Business on episode 253, she was the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Katie Krimitsos, Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. The last time that Katie was featured on A Well-Designed Business on episode 253, she was the fearless leader of the Biz Women Rock community. Listen in to catch up with all that’s been going on with Katie since her newest endeavor. She truly has a passion to help you become your best you, and if this current Corona Virus event has left you a bit more fearful than usual, you’ll want to hear about guided meditations that can help you feel more centered in this anxiety-ridden environment. Katie Krimitsos is Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. She is also a mom, wife, adventurer, podcaster, seeker, and change maker.  She's committed to brightening the light of women around the world through the Women’s Meditation Network, which provides guided meditations and related resources specifically created with the special journey of women in mind. She’s passionate about giving women the tools, strategies, and inspiration to live lives they truly love. She loves the water, the sound of her two girls laughing with each other, and is constantly evolving to make her life and the lives of others as magical as possible.  Show Highlights: Katie shares her compelling story of how the Women’s Meditation Network came about. Women naturally have a beautiful light but they are often dimmed by self-doubt or comparison. Katie is not a meditation teacher, but she does give women the TOOL of meditation to help them learn more about themselves and learn how to deal with life’s troubling moments. Meditation doesn’t mean having a blank mind. It’s about managing your thoughts, which is crucial to master in both your personal and business lives. Meditation helps you to distinguish between, “What’s the noise?” versus “What’s the voice?”. Stop and set aside the fear of what is and what could be. Then reflect on what you can do or how you can help. How are you uniquely qualified to help your clients right now? What you choose to do and how you choose to show up right now might not pay “right now”, but if you lead with love and do the right thing, it will pay a thousand-fold in the future. Katie describes the ease of using her 5-20 minute, guided meditations and she also has a sleep bundle. LuAnn points out that research backs up the physiological benefits of meditation. It’s so important to tap in and understand what’s really best for us at this moment and how we can best serve others. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? LuAnn Nigara COB Connect with Katie! Katie’s Website Subscribe HERE to get FREE weekly meditations! Start the 7 Day Meditation ChallengeHERE! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account: Kravet FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Mentioned Episodes: Katie's other appearance on the show #253   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn’s guest today is Katie Krimitsos, Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. The last time that Katie was featured on A Well-Designed Business on episode 253, she was the fearless leader of the Biz Women Rock community.

Listen in to catch up with all that’s been going on with Katie since her newest endeavor. She truly has a passion to help you become your best you, and if this current Corona Virus event has left you a bit more fearful than usual, you’ll want to hear about guided meditations that can help you feel more centered in this anxiety-ridden environment.

Katie Krimitsos is Creator of the Women’s Meditation Network. She is also a mom, wife, adventurer, podcaster, seeker, and change maker.  She's committed to brightening the light of women around the world through the Women’s Meditation Network, which provides guided meditations and related resources specifically created with the special journey of women in mind. She’s passionate about giving women the tools, strategies, and inspiration to live lives they truly love. She loves the water, the sound of her two girls laughing with each other, and is constantly evolving to make her life and the lives of others as magical as possible. 

Show Highlights:

  • Katie shares her compelling story of how the Women’s Meditation Network came about.
  • Women naturally have a beautiful light but they are often dimmed by self-doubt or comparison.
  • Katie is not a meditation teacher, but she does give women the TOOL of meditation to help them learn more about themselves and learn how to deal with life’s troubling moments.
  • Meditation doesn’t mean having a blank mind. It’s about managing your thoughts, which is crucial to master in both your personal and business lives.
  • Meditation helps you to distinguish between, “What’s the noise?” versus “What’s the voice?”.
  • Stop and set aside the fear of what is and what could be. Then reflect on what you can do or how you can help. How are you uniquely qualified to help your clients right now?
  • What you choose to do and how you choose to show up right now might not pay “right now”, but if you lead with love and do the right thing, it will pay a thousand-fold in the future.
  • Katie describes the ease of using her 5-20 minute, guided meditations and she also has a sleep bundle.
  • LuAnn points out that research backs up the physiological benefits of meditation.
  • It’s so important to tap in and understand what’s really best for us at this moment and how we can best serve others.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Connect with Katie!

Katie’s Website

Subscribe HERE to get FREE weekly meditations!

Start the 7 Day Meditation ChallengeHERE!

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account:

Kravet

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Mentioned Episodes:

Katie's other appearance on the show #253

 

]]> 3486 no 532: LuAnn Nigara: Thoughts on Leading Your Business Through the Covid-19 Crisis http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/532-luann-nigara-thoughts-on-leading-your-business-through-the-covid-19-crisis Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Did you miss the amazing “19 Hours” free virtual business summit that ran the week of April 6th through April 9th, 2020? If so, LuAnn will be filling you in on the industry’s answer to the COVID-19 crisis that contains all of the incredible presentations and panel discussions that was originally planned for High Point Market Spring 2020. Today’s show is a replay of the solo presentation that LuAnn did on Thursday, April 9th, on “How to Lead Your Business Through the COVID-19 Crisis”. She has some perspective here that is sure to interest you, whether you run a virtual team or a brick-and-mortar one because LuAnn has weathered several significant economic downturns during her career and came out stronger on the other side of it. 19 Hours was hosted by Mydoma Studio and sponsored by Kravet, Article, Jaipur Living, Monogram, Summer Classics,Gabby Home, Interior Design Society, and Revel Woods. There were an average of 800 designers and business owners watching each and every live session! If you missed it, you can still get the video recordings. For the next couple of weeks, Mydoma Studio will graciously email you the entire video conference if you contact them here: My Doma Studio: 19Hours. Just wait until you hear the presentations by some of the industry’s top business leaders. There were 14 presentations and each one was stellar! Show Highlights: In LuAnn’s first book, The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action, she emphasizes the importance of knowing your mission and your core values, and it’s never been more important than now so you can be laser-focused in crisis. LuAnn details the three areas that you should focus on: Mitigate the losses. Focus on sales and marketing. Gratitude There’s wisdom in the saying, “The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.” Don’t overreact but don’t not act. LuAnn describes the #1 mistake she made in the early ‘90s. Think very carefully about the problems you are experiencing with the way you are living through the COVID-19 crisis, and how might you solve this for people in your circle who are experiencing the same things? Be creative, be empathetic. This is a good time to look inward. It is also a good opportunity to make sure you have your systems locked down. If you could wave a magic wand, what would your business look like? Look inward and be listening for what your lesson is in this. It could be personal or business, big or small. Everyday there is something to be grateful for. Share and show grace with each other. If you need to unplug, then unplug and own that. It will take some ingenuity and intention to get through this, but you can do if! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday To Receive the Entire 19Hours Video Conference, Please Visit: My Doma Studio: 19Hours Book Mentioned: The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action by LuAnn Nigara Mentioned Episodes: LuAnn’s Solo #519 Kim Merlitti #442   Thu, 23 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 LuAnn Nigara: Thoughts on Leading Your Business Through the Covid-19 Crisis full 532 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Did you miss the amazing “19 Hours” free virtual business summit that ran the week of April 6th through April 9th, 2020? If so, LuAnn will be filling you in on the industry’s answer to the COVID-19 crisis... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Did you miss the amazing “19 Hours” free virtual business summit that ran the week of April 6th through April 9th, 2020? If so, LuAnn will be filling you in on the industry’s answer to the COVID-19 crisis that contains all of the incredible presentations and panel discussions that was originally planned for High Point Market Spring 2020. Today’s show is a replay of the solo presentation that LuAnn did on Thursday, April 9th, on “How to Lead Your Business Through the COVID-19 Crisis”. She has some perspective here that is sure to interest you, whether you run a virtual team or a brick-and-mortar one because LuAnn has weathered several significant economic downturns during her career and came out stronger on the other side of it. 19 Hours was hosted by Mydoma Studio and sponsored by Kravet, Article, Jaipur Living, Monogram, Summer Classics,Gabby Home, Interior Design Society, and Revel Woods. There were an average of 800 designers and business owners watching each and every live session! If you missed it, you can still get the video recordings. For the next couple of weeks, Mydoma Studio will graciously email you the entire video conference if you contact them here: My Doma Studio: 19Hours. Just wait until you hear the presentations by some of the industry’s top business leaders. There were 14 presentations and each one was stellar! Show Highlights: In LuAnn’s first book, The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action, she emphasizes the importance of knowing your mission and your core values, and it’s never been more important than now so you can be laser-focused in crisis. LuAnn details the three areas that you should focus on: Mitigate the losses. Focus on sales and marketing. Gratitude There’s wisdom in the saying, “The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.” Don’t overreact but don’t not act. LuAnn describes the #1 mistake she made in the early ‘90s. Think very carefully about the problems you are experiencing with the way you are living through the COVID-19 crisis, and how might you solve this for people in your circle who are experiencing the same things? Be creative, be empathetic. This is a good time to look inward. It is also a good opportunity to make sure you have your systems locked down. If you could wave a magic wand, what would your business look like? Look inward and be listening for what your lesson is in this. It could be personal or business, big or small. Everyday there is something to be grateful for. Share and show grace with each other. If you need to unplug, then unplug and own that. It will take some ingenuity and intention to get through this, but you can do if! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday To Receive the Entire 19Hours Video Conference, Please Visit: My Doma Studio: 19Hours Book Mentioned: The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action by LuAnn Nigara Mentioned Episodes: LuAnn’s Solo #519 Kim Merlitti #442   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Did you miss the amazing “19 Hours” free virtual business summit that ran the week of April 6th through April 9th, 2020? If so, LuAnn will be filling you in on the industry’s answer to the COVID-19 crisis that contains all of the incredible presentations and panel discussions that was originally planned for High Point Market Spring 2020.

Today’s show is a replay of the solo presentation that LuAnn did on Thursday, April 9th, on “How to Lead Your Business Through the COVID-19 Crisis”. She has some perspective here that is sure to interest you, whether you run a virtual team or a brick-and-mortar one because LuAnn has weathered several significant economic downturns during her career and came out stronger on the other side of it.

19 Hours was hosted by Mydoma Studio and sponsored by Kravet, Article, Jaipur Living, Monogram, Summer Classics,Gabby Home, Interior Design Society, and Revel Woods.

There were an average of 800 designers and business owners watching each and every live session! If you missed it, you can still get the video recordings. For the next couple of weeks, Mydoma Studio will graciously email you the entire video conference if you contact them here: My Doma Studio: 19Hours.

Just wait until you hear the presentations by some of the industry’s top business leaders. There were 14 presentations and each one was stellar!

Show Highlights:

  • In LuAnn’s first book, The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action, she emphasizes the importance of knowing your mission and your core values, and it’s never been more important than now so you can be laser-focused in crisis.
    • LuAnn details the three areas that you should focus on:
    1. Mitigate the losses.
    2. Focus on sales and marketing.
    3. Gratitude
  • There’s wisdom in the saying, “The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.”
  • Don’t overreact but don’t not act.
  • LuAnn describes the #1 mistake she made in the early ‘90s.
  • Think very carefully about the problems you are experiencing with the way you are living through the COVID-19 crisis, and how might you solve this for people in your circle who are experiencing the same things?
  • Be creative, be empathetic.
  • This is a good time to look inward. It is also a good opportunity to make sure you have your systems locked down.
  • If you could wave a magic wand, what would your business look like?
  • Look inward and be listening for what your lesson is in this. It could be personal or business, big or small.
  • Everyday there is something to be grateful for.
  • Share and show grace with each other.
  • If you need to unplug, then unplug and own that.
  • It will take some ingenuity and intention to get through this, but you can do if!

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

To Receive the Entire 19Hours Video Conference, Please Visit:

My Doma Studio: 19Hours

Book Mentioned:

The Making of a Well-Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action by LuAnn Nigara

Mentioned Episodes:

LuAnn’s Solo #519

Kim Merlitti #442

 

]]> 3062 no 531: Kendall Wilkinson: #Seasoned Designer Sharing Experience and Wisdom http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/531-kendall-wilkinson-seasoned-designer-sharing-experience-and-wisdom Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn is joined by industry-icon, Kendall Wilkinson. They’ll be chatting about Kendall’s perspective on her experience in growing an esteemed and successful firm. They discuss budgets to clients to discovery-call practices to Kendall’s experience in the 2008 recession where she had to use guerilla-style marketing strategies to build a pipeline. Whether you are already a Kendall Wilkinson fan or this is the first time learning about her, you are going to love this conversation. Kendall is a #smartlady who runs a major enterprise which includes her famous San Francisco design firm, her textile collections for Fabricut, as well as being a sought-after speaker for industry events all over the nation. Kendall’s work has been on the pages of Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and Wall Street Journal, to name a few. Along with participating in numerous showcases over the years including the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, Elle Decor Showhouse, and LUXE Magazine’s Maison de Luxe Showhouse, Kendall has also she served on the prestigious Board of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. Show Highlights: Kendall has been in business for 27 years and employs a staff of 30. Kendall believes that a combination of creative excellence and business acumen are responsible for her success. It’s important to mentor once you have the experience in. Kendall explains her business structure: She has four teams of principals who have their own firms. Within each team is a senior designer, a design associate, a design assistant, and a project manager. They each run 3-5 projects. Kendall also has a back office, which includes the expediters, controllers, accountants, and administrators. This structure has allowed her to be more creative because of the confidence she in her principals and their abilities. LuAnn and Kendall discuss clients, budgets, variables, and the non-negotiables. Kendall shares how she came through the 2008 recession without having to lay off any employees. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting Wednesday, April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Kendall! Kendall’s Website Kendall’s LinkedIn Kendall’s Twitter  - @KWilkinsonSF Kendall Wilkinson Design’sInstagram - @KendallWilkinsonDesign Kendall Wilkinson Design’sFacebook Kendall Wilkinson Design’s LinkedIn Kendall Wilkinson Design’sPinterest DesignClass: Interior Design With Kendall Wilkinson Be sure to check out Kendall’s textile line atFabricut! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.   Tue, 21 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Kendall Wilkinson: #Seasoned Designer Sharing Experience and Wisdom full 531 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn is joined by industry-icon, Kendall Wilkinson. They’ll be chatting about Kendall’s perspective on her experience in growing an esteemed and successful firm. They discuss budgets to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn is joined by industry-icon, Kendall Wilkinson. They’ll be chatting about Kendall’s perspective on her experience in growing an esteemed and successful firm. They discuss budgets to clients to discovery-call practices to Kendall’s experience in the 2008 recession where she had to use guerilla-style marketing strategies to build a pipeline. Whether you are already a Kendall Wilkinson fan or this is the first time learning about her, you are going to love this conversation. Kendall is a #smartlady who runs a major enterprise which includes her famous San Francisco design firm, her textile collections for Fabricut, as well as being a sought-after speaker for industry events all over the nation. Kendall’s work has been on the pages of Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and Wall Street Journal, to name a few. Along with participating in numerous showcases over the years including the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, Elle Decor Showhouse, and LUXE Magazine’s Maison de Luxe Showhouse, Kendall has also she served on the prestigious Board of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. Show Highlights: Kendall has been in business for 27 years and employs a staff of 30. Kendall believes that a combination of creative excellence and business acumen are responsible for her success. It’s important to mentor once you have the experience in. Kendall explains her business structure: She has four teams of principals who have their own firms. Within each team is a senior designer, a design associate, a design assistant, and a project manager. They each run 3-5 projects. Kendall also has a back office, which includes the expediters, controllers, accountants, and administrators. This structure has allowed her to be more creative because of the confidence she in her principals and their abilities. LuAnn and Kendall discuss clients, budgets, variables, and the non-negotiables. Kendall shares how she came through the 2008 recession without having to lay off any employees. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting Wednesday, April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Kendall! Kendall’s Website Kendall’s LinkedIn Kendall’s Twitter  - @KWilkinsonSF Kendall Wilkinson Design’sInstagram - @KendallWilkinsonDesign Kendall Wilkinson Design’sFacebook Kendall Wilkinson Design’s LinkedIn Kendall Wilkinson Design’sPinterest DesignClass: Interior Design With Kendall Wilkinson Be sure to check out Kendall’s textile line atFabricut! A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn is joined by industry-icon, Kendall Wilkinson. They’ll be chatting about Kendall’s perspective on her experience in growing an esteemed and successful firm. They discuss budgets to clients to discovery-call practices to Kendall’s experience in the 2008 recession where she had to use guerilla-style marketing strategies to build a pipeline.

Whether you are already a Kendall Wilkinson fan or this is the first time learning about her, you are going to love this conversation. Kendall is a #smartlady who runs a major enterprise which includes her famous San Francisco design firm, her textile collections for Fabricut, as well as being a sought-after speaker for industry events all over the nation.

Kendall’s work has been on the pages of Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and Wall Street Journal, to name a few. Along with participating in numerous showcases over the years including the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, Elle Decor Showhouse, and LUXE Magazine’s Maison de Luxe Showhouse, Kendall has also she served on the prestigious Board of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.

Show Highlights:

  • Kendall has been in business for 27 years and employs a staff of 30.
  • Kendall believes that a combination of creative excellence and business acumen are responsible for her success.
  • It’s important to mentor once you have the experience in.
  • Kendall explains her business structure: She has four teams of principals who have their own firms. Within each team is a senior designer, a design associate, a design assistant, and a project manager. They each run 3-5 projects. Kendall also has a back office, which includes the expediters, controllers, accountants, and administrators.
  • This structure has allowed her to be more creative because of the confidence she in her principals and their abilities.
  • LuAnn and Kendall discuss clients, budgets, variables, and the non-negotiables.
  • Kendall shares how she came through the 2008 recession without having to lay off any employees.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting Wednesday, April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

Connect with Kendall!

Kendall’s Website

Kendall’s LinkedIn

Kendall’s Twitter  - @KWilkinsonSF

Kendall Wilkinson Design’sInstagram - @KendallWilkinsonDesign

Kendall Wilkinson Design’sFacebook

Kendall Wilkinson Design’s LinkedIn

Kendall Wilkinson Design’sPinterest

DesignClass: Interior Design With Kendall Wilkinson

Be sure to check out Kendall’s textile line atFabricut!

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

 

]]> 4000 no 530: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Lane: What I Learned from Process Leads to Profits Course http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/530-power-talk-friday-nancy-lane-what-i-learned-from-process-leads-to-profits-course Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Nancy Lane, CEO of Nancy Lane Interiors in Houston, Texas, joins LuAnn today and you’ll be learning all about the Process Leads to Profits course that Nancy took last winter and the tangible benefits she has received from it. You’ll also hear how Nancy utilized Mydoma Studio to define her services for her prospective clients and how she now invoices and receives payments for her services through Mydoma Studio. Join LuAnn and Nancy in this engaging and informational conversation, and to learn more about signing up for the next Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan’s LIVE course, which starts NEXT WEEK! Nancy Lane’s idea of home has been informed by all the places she's lived, and perhaps most of all by the one she lost. As a child, her home burned to the ground, displacing her family in the process. Nancy and her family found themselves building their new home together and establishing the true meaning of that word at the same time.  Her love for interior design grew through the years, both through her own personal projects and as she shared her passion by helping friends and neighbors with their design projects for more than a decade. In 2016, she opened her residential interior design consulting business, Nancy Lane Interiors and turned that passion into a livelihood. Nancy helps clients solve their design dilemmas and turn houses into homes in and around Houston, Texas, where she resides with her husband and three sons.   Show Highlights: Nancy’s first career was as a chemist! She is a perpetual learner and was already running a successful business when she signed up for classes because she loves to learn new and better processes. Clearly defined processes are everything. You can define your process to make it concrete and repeatable BUT just know it's still really fluid. It will always be a work in process. Nancy details the steps she’s implemented since completing the Process Leads to Profits course. Automate, automate, automate! Automation is important in delivering consistent service. Mindset is key. Most of the issues we have all start right between our ears! In light of COVID-19, Nancy discusses the ways that she’s been taking advantage of being at home. Is the Process Leads to Profits class right for you? If 6 weeks from now you would like to know you are well on your way and well-armed with the information and strategies to once and for all organize your “you” into a repeatable, duplicatable process (AKA, a “business”!), then YES! Sign up HERE! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Nancy! Nancy’s Websites: Nancy Lane Interiors &The Decor Detective Nancy’sInstagram Nancy’sFacebook A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Previous shows mentioned: Nicole Cole #509 Sara Lynn Brennan:#463, #514, #524   Fri, 17 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Lane: What I Learned from Process Leads to Profits Course full 530 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Nancy Lane, CEO of Nancy Lane Interiors in Houston, Texas, joins LuAnn today and you’ll be learning all about the Process Leads to Profits course that Nancy took last winter and the... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Nancy Lane, CEO of Nancy Lane Interiors in Houston, Texas, joins LuAnn today and you’ll be learning all about the Process Leads to Profits course that Nancy took last winter and the tangible benefits she has received from it. You’ll also hear how Nancy utilized Mydoma Studio to define her services for her prospective clients and how she now invoices and receives payments for her services through Mydoma Studio. Join LuAnn and Nancy in this engaging and informational conversation, and to learn more about signing up for the next Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan’s LIVE course, which starts NEXT WEEK! Nancy Lane’s idea of home has been informed by all the places she's lived, and perhaps most of all by the one she lost. As a child, her home burned to the ground, displacing her family in the process. Nancy and her family found themselves building their new home together and establishing the true meaning of that word at the same time.  Her love for interior design grew through the years, both through her own personal projects and as she shared her passion by helping friends and neighbors with their design projects for more than a decade. In 2016, she opened her residential interior design consulting business, Nancy Lane Interiors and turned that passion into a livelihood. Nancy helps clients solve their design dilemmas and turn houses into homes in and around Houston, Texas, where she resides with her husband and three sons.   Show Highlights: Nancy’s first career was as a chemist! She is a perpetual learner and was already running a successful business when she signed up for classes because she loves to learn new and better processes. Clearly defined processes are everything. You can define your process to make it concrete and repeatable BUT just know it's still really fluid. It will always be a work in process. Nancy details the steps she’s implemented since completing the Process Leads to Profits course. Automate, automate, automate! Automation is important in delivering consistent service. Mindset is key. Most of the issues we have all start right between our ears! In light of COVID-19, Nancy discusses the ways that she’s been taking advantage of being at home. Is the Process Leads to Profits class right for you? If 6 weeks from now you would like to know you are well on your way and well-armed with the information and strategies to once and for all organize your “you” into a repeatable, duplicatable process (AKA, a “business”!), then YES! Sign up HERE! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! LuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Nancy! Nancy’s Websites: Nancy Lane Interiors &The Decor Detective Nancy’sInstagram Nancy’sFacebook A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Previous shows mentioned: Nicole Cole #509 Sara Lynn Brennan:#463, #514, #524   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Nancy Lane, CEO of Nancy Lane Interiors in Houston, Texas, joins LuAnn today and you’ll be learning all about the Process Leads to Profits course that Nancy took last winter and the tangible benefits she has received from it.

You’ll also hear how Nancy utilized Mydoma Studio to define her services for her prospective clients and how she now invoices and receives payments for her services through Mydoma Studio.

Join LuAnn and Nancy in this engaging and informational conversation, and to learn more about signing up for the next Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan’s LIVE course, which starts NEXT WEEK!

Nancy Lane’s idea of home has been informed by all the places she's lived, and perhaps most of all by the one she lost. As a child, her home burned to the ground, displacing her family in the process. Nancy and her family found themselves building their new home together and establishing the true meaning of that word at the same time. 

Her love for interior design grew through the years, both through her own personal projects and as she shared her passion by helping friends and neighbors with their design projects for more than a decade. In 2016, she opened her residential interior design consulting business, Nancy Lane Interiors and turned that passion into a livelihood. Nancy helps clients solve their design dilemmas and turn houses into homes in and around Houston, Texas, where she resides with her husband and three sons.

 


Show Highlights:

  • Nancy’s first career was as a chemist! She is a perpetual learner and was already running a successful business when she signed up for classes because she loves to learn new and better processes.
  • Clearly defined processes are everything. You can define your process to make it concrete and repeatable BUT just know it's still really fluid. It will always be a work in process.
  • Nancy details the steps she’s implemented since completing the Process Leads to Profits course.
  • Automate, automate, automate! Automation is important in delivering consistent service.
  • Mindset is key. Most of the issues we have all start right between our ears!
  • In light of COVID-19, Nancy discusses the ways that she’s been taking advantage of being at home.
  • Is the Process Leads to Profits class right for you? If 6 weeks from now you would like to know you are well on your way and well-armed with the information and strategies to once and for all organize your “you” into a repeatable, duplicatable process (AKA, a “business”!), then YES! Sign up HERE!

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

Connect with Nancy!

Nancy’s Websites: Nancy Lane Interiors &The Decor Detective

Nancy’sInstagram

Nancy’sFacebook

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Previous shows mentioned:

Nicole Cole #509

Sara Lynn Brennan:#463, #514, #524

 

]]> 4202 no 529: What Would Lu Do: Listener Questions http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/529-what-would-lu-do-listener-questions Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for an episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Jane, who would like to know how to handle a client who is refusing to pay a bill. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolution. If you have a burning issue that you need some insight on, please send your question to LuAnn Nigara! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares Jane’s detailed email. The red-flag phrase in the listener’s email that got LuAnn’s attention: “Even when I could see the project going south.” Why LuAnn thinks that the client somehow feels wronged. LuAnn’s take-action steps: The listener should think back to when she first felt things going south. She needs to identify the event and ask herself these questions: What one thing could you have done at the time to have avoided the project going south? Can you fix the problem even though it is late? Even if it costs you money, you have to fix it. Get ready for the hard conversation. Call her, acknowledge the problem, give a genuine apology for the past offense and offer the solution you are going to take. Once you’ve agreed on a solution, THEN you can ask for the payment, but there’s a particular way you need to frame the request! The client needs that moment of contrition and the solution to get past the problem. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live LuAnn Nigara- Email LuAnn Your Questions! LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10 Kravet Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch   Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do: Listener Questions full 529 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for an episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Jane, who would like to know how to handle a client who... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for an episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers. Today’s question comes from listener Jane, who would like to know how to handle a client who is refusing to pay a bill. Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolution. If you have a burning issue that you need some insight on, please send your question to LuAnn Nigara! Show Highlights: LuAnn shares Jane’s detailed email. The red-flag phrase in the listener’s email that got LuAnn’s attention: “Even when I could see the project going south.” Why LuAnn thinks that the client somehow feels wronged. LuAnn’s take-action steps: The listener should think back to when she first felt things going south. She needs to identify the event and ask herself these questions: What one thing could you have done at the time to have avoided the project going south? Can you fix the problem even though it is late? Even if it costs you money, you have to fix it. Get ready for the hard conversation. Call her, acknowledge the problem, give a genuine apology for the past offense and offer the solution you are going to take. Once you’ve agreed on a solution, THEN you can ask for the payment, but there’s a particular way you need to frame the request! The client needs that moment of contrition and the solution to get past the problem. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live LuAnn Nigara- Email LuAnn Your Questions! LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim! Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10 Kravet Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for an episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from listener Jane, who would like to know how to handle a client who is refusing to pay a bill.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolution.

If you have a burning issue that you need some insight on, please send your question to LuAnn Nigara!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares Jane’s detailed email.
  • The red-flag phrase in the listener’s email that got LuAnn’s attention: “Even when I could see the project going south.”
  • Why LuAnn thinks that the client somehow feels wronged.
  • LuAnn’s take-action steps:
  • The listener should think back to when she first felt things going south.
  • She needs to identify the event and ask herself these questions:
  1. What one thing could you have done at the time to have avoided the project going south?
  2. Can you fix the problem even though it is late?
  • Even if it costs you money, you have to fix it.
  • Get ready for the hard conversation. Call her, acknowledge the problem, give a genuine apology for the past offense and offer the solution you are going to take.
  • Once you’ve agreed on a solution, THEN you can ask for the payment, but there’s a particular way you need to frame the request!
  • The client needs that moment of contrition and the solution to get past the problem.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

LuAnn Live

LuAnn Nigara- Email LuAnn Your Questions!

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim!

Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10

Kravet

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

 

]]> 837 no 528: Krista Watterworth Alterman: Leaders Lead and Leaders Succeed http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/528-krista-watterworth-alterman-leaders-lead-and-leaders-succeed Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn gets to chat with Krista Watterworth Alterman, CEO of Krista Home in Palm Beach, Florida, about company mission and vision, how important it is to lift others up, and very timely advice on how to face fear. Krista leads her company with purpose and clarity. She is the kind of CEO that has taken the time to figure these things out for herself and as you listen, you will hear how it guides every decision she makes, from client interaction to creating, training and leading her team. You don’t want to miss this engaging conversation! Krista is the CEO of Krista Home located in Palm Beach Florida. Originally from Connecticut and trained in NY at Parsons School of Interior Design with a masters of Fine Arts from the New School, NYC, Krista is known for her highly acclaimed HGTV shows Save My Bath and Splurge & Save. She's also been featured on The Food Network’s Restaurant Impossible and DIY's The Vanilla Ice Project for seven seasons. Selected as one of the designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019 Krista has also won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards. Krista was one of the selected designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019. She won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards. Her work is regularly featured in many publications including Architectural Digest, Decor, Luxe Interiors & Design, Florida Design, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, Southern Style At Home and Cottages & Bungalows. Show Highlights: When an employee hasn’t risen to exceptional status, it can sometimes be because we haven’t empowered them to properly do their job when they don’t have a clear understanding of their job description. Streamlining her business helped Krista and her team figure out who was responsible for providing different services, and how they could do it in a way that was fun and empowering for everybody so they loved coming to work. In doing this, she wanted to discover people’s natural talents and expertise. Krista wants her company to be able to function without her presence. Employees need clarity on their roles but they also need clarity on your company’s mission and vision. Service is Krista’s mission and she shares the relevance of saying, “Yes, And”. LuAnn emphasizes the importance of words. “A Design Lab” rather than a “Design Presentation”: Krista describes her plan to make everything fun for her clients when they come in to finalize the work product. When you feel fearful or anxious about something, it’s time for action. You need to do something to propel yourself forward. What you’re naturally good at is what you grow your passion around. Krista describes her employees’ job descriptions and how each of their strengths complement their positions. Having a philosophy in life that brings you great happiness and carrying that over to your work life is a win/win situation. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Krista! Krista’s Website Krista’s Facebook Krista’s Instagram Books Mentioned: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends 3 Words for Getting Unstuck: Live Yes, And!by Travis L. Thomas A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: *Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. *Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Show Mentioned: #526 featuring Asha Chaudhary   Tue, 14 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Krista Watterworth Alterman: Leaders Lead and Leaders Succeed full 528 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn gets to chat with Krista Watterworth Alterman, CEO of Krista Home in Palm Beach, Florida, about company mission and vision, how important it is to lift others up, and very timely advice on how to face fear.... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn gets to chat with Krista Watterworth Alterman, CEO of Krista Home in Palm Beach, Florida, about company mission and vision, how important it is to lift others up, and very timely advice on how to face fear. Krista leads her company with purpose and clarity. She is the kind of CEO that has taken the time to figure these things out for herself and as you listen, you will hear how it guides every decision she makes, from client interaction to creating, training and leading her team. You don’t want to miss this engaging conversation! Krista is the CEO of Krista Home located in Palm Beach Florida. Originally from Connecticut and trained in NY at Parsons School of Interior Design with a masters of Fine Arts from the New School, NYC, Krista is known for her highly acclaimed HGTV shows Save My Bath and Splurge & Save. She's also been featured on The Food Network’s Restaurant Impossible and DIY's The Vanilla Ice Project for seven seasons. Selected as one of the designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019 Krista has also won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards. Krista was one of the selected designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019. She won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards. Her work is regularly featured in many publications including Architectural Digest, Decor, Luxe Interiors & Design, Florida Design, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, Southern Style At Home and Cottages & Bungalows. Show Highlights: When an employee hasn’t risen to exceptional status, it can sometimes be because we haven’t empowered them to properly do their job when they don’t have a clear understanding of their job description. Streamlining her business helped Krista and her team figure out who was responsible for providing different services, and how they could do it in a way that was fun and empowering for everybody so they loved coming to work. In doing this, she wanted to discover people’s natural talents and expertise. Krista wants her company to be able to function without her presence. Employees need clarity on their roles but they also need clarity on your company’s mission and vision. Service is Krista’s mission and she shares the relevance of saying, “Yes, And”. LuAnn emphasizes the importance of words. “A Design Lab” rather than a “Design Presentation”: Krista describes her plan to make everything fun for her clients when they come in to finalize the work product. When you feel fearful or anxious about something, it’s time for action. You need to do something to propel yourself forward. What you’re naturally good at is what you grow your passion around. Krista describes her employees’ job descriptions and how each of their strengths complement their positions. Having a philosophy in life that brings you great happiness and carrying that over to your work life is a win/win situation. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Connect with Krista! Krista’s Website Krista’s Facebook Krista’s Instagram Books Mentioned: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends 3 Words for Getting Unstuck: Live Yes, And!by Travis L. Thomas A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors: *Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company. *Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article. Previous Show Mentioned: #526 featuring Asha Chaudhary   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn gets to chat with Krista Watterworth Alterman, CEO of Krista Home in Palm Beach, Florida, about company mission and vision, how important it is to lift others up, and very timely advice on how to face fear.

Krista leads her company with purpose and clarity. She is the kind of CEO that has taken the time to figure these things out for herself and as you listen, you will hear how it guides every decision she makes, from client interaction to creating, training and leading her team. You don’t want to miss this engaging conversation!

Krista is the CEO of Krista Home located in Palm Beach Florida. Originally from Connecticut and trained in NY at Parsons School of Interior Design with a masters of Fine Arts from the New School, NYC, Krista is known for her highly acclaimed HGTV shows Save My Bath and Splurge & Save. She's also been featured on The Food Network’s Restaurant Impossible and DIY's The Vanilla Ice Project for seven seasons.

Selected as one of the designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019 Krista has also won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards.

Krista was one of the selected designers for the prestigious Kips Bay Show House in 2019. She won two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards, a 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award and three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards.

Her work is regularly featured in many publications including Architectural Digest, Decor, Luxe Interiors & Design, Florida Design, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, Southern Style At Home and Cottages & Bungalows.

Show Highlights:

  • When an employee hasn’t risen to exceptional status, it can sometimes be because we haven’t empowered them to properly do their job when they don’t have a clear understanding of their job description.
  • Streamlining her business helped Krista and her team figure out who was responsible for providing different services, and how they could do it in a way that was fun and empowering for everybody so they loved coming to work.
  • In doing this, she wanted to discover people’s natural talents and expertise.
  • Krista wants her company to be able to function without her presence.
  • Employees need clarity on their roles but they also need clarity on your company’s mission and vision.
  • Service is Krista’s mission and she shares the relevance of saying, “Yes, And”.
  • LuAnn emphasizes the importance of words.
  • “A Design Lab” rather than a “Design Presentation”: Krista describes her plan to make everything fun for her clients when they come in to finalize the work product.
  • When you feel fearful or anxious about something, it’s time for action. You need to do something to propel yourself forward.
  • What you’re naturally good at is what you grow your passion around. Krista describes her employees’ job descriptions and how each of their strengths complement their positions.
  • Having a philosophy in life that brings you great happiness and carrying that over to your work life is a win/win situation.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

LuAnn Live

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

Connect with Krista!

Krista’s Website

Krista’s Facebook

Krista’s Instagram

Books Mentioned:

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends

3 Words for Getting Unstuck: Live Yes, And!by Travis L. Thomas

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

*Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

*Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Previous Show Mentioned:

#526 featuring Asha Chaudhary

 

]]> 3584 no 527: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/527-power-talk-friday-where-are-they-now-wendy-woloshchuk-grow-your-business-through-action Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! And today LuAnn will be doing a ‘Where Are They Now’ episode with Wendy Woloshchuk, who last made her appearance on A Well-Designed Business about two years ago.    What a difference those two years have made! Wendy is here to share the invaluable information she has learned from LuAnn Live and The Power Talk Friday Tour, the implementations to her business that resulted from that, and the profound impact it has had on her life.   You don’t want to miss this conversation! Get ready for some takeaways from this!   Wendy Woloshchuk believes that great interior design can change your everyday life. It’s about more than just beauty and function. It’s about creating a home that feels like a warm hug when you walk in after a long day. The details of your home create that feeling of comfort. She believes that interior design should be approachable, not intimidating! Her goal is not to make your house a showpiece, but to create a beautiful, comforting space and to see you enjoying it with friends and family. Wendy has been an interior designer and decorating enthusiast for as long as she can remember, and has been getting paid to do it since 2007, when she received her Interior Design Certification from Bay Path University. She is a frequent speaker and panelist at design events. She’s spoken for Facebook, been on multiple panels at High Point Market, was an invited guest at The Designer Experience, and was on the designhounds Influencer tour of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS).   Wendy is a Houzz influencer, has won multiple Houzz Service Awards, and is a Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She was also a Las Vegas Market Red Carpet Tour attendee. She has done multiple projects with the Make a Wish Foundation, and she’s a certified member of The Interior Design Society (IDS).   Wendy loves sharing interior design advice and ideas. She coaches interior designers from around the world and teaches both local and online workshops to interior designers, decorators and home stagers on the business of interior design, and offer free tips on design on her Facebook live show, The Daily Details! She’s been quoted and/or seen in: Designers Today Magazine The Sunday Republican The Palmer Journal Mydoma.com Window Fashion Vision magazine …and heard on: A Well-Designed Business podcast with LuAnn Nigara Home Stagers and Designers on Fire podcast with Marianne Cherico     When she’s not working on other people’s houses – or on the beach in Aruba – she’s in her own home in the woods, listening to podcasts or country music; cheering for the New England Patriots; or spending time with her husband, Mike (Wally), and their schnug, Ozzy.   Show Highlights:   As Wendy explains, she had a process, but it was inconsistent. Once she hired an assistant, she knew she had to have a better process in place. Wendy took the time to document her processes in a “Standards of Excellence Manual”, an idea she got from Ashley Uhl.  Wendy asked her assistant to write down her own documented processes as she experienced them after a month of being hired, then they compared notes. This allowed them to fine-tune the manual. Another idea she got from Ashley Uhl was sending a simple hand-written thank you note after a consult.  LuAnn loved the idea Wendy shared of sending “Happy Birthday to Your Room” cards to her clients after their first anniversary of doing business together. After year 5 and year 10, Wendy sends a card offering to refresh their room design. Wendy hired Nancy Ganzekaufer as a coach and worked with her for most of last year. One of the big areas in which Nancy helped was with Wendy’s numbers, so she increased both her hourly rates and her consults rates, and started charging her clients retail for product, which substantially increased her profits. All clients get a weekly update email very Friday updating them on their project and exactly what was accomplished over the past week. Nicole Heymer’s branding course helped Wendy to websites, social media. what she wanted from her website, so last year, Wendy worked with a copywriter to redesign her website, making it more relaxed and fun. Based on conversations over lunch with Debbe Daley and Marianne Cherico last year, Wendy, Debbe, and Marianne started the Design for Today Collaborative. They do in-person workshops at the Boston Design Center and other venues around New England. It’s a way to keep designers up to date on technology, websites, and social media but has grown to include staging coaching. LuAnn points out that Wendy’s success story is a great example of never being afraid of seeking help and knowledge from others, and taking that information you learn and putting it into practice.     Links / Resources:   LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post on LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday  Luannlive.com   LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to www.processleadstoprofits.com.   Connect with Wendy! Wendy’s YouTube Wendy’s Pinterest Wendy’s Facebook Wendy’s Instagram Wendy’s LinkedIn Wendy’s Website Design For Today Collaborative Facebook Page   Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:   FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! https://www.article.com   Previous Show Mentioned: Ashley Uhl #412 Nancy Ganzekaufer: #15, #159, #256, #389 Eileen Hahn #363 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274 Sarah Daniele #91, #177 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, #466 Debbe Daley #431 Marianne Cherico #123 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442 Sally Williams #496 Claire Jefford #237, #325, #485 Sara Brennan #463, #524 Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Fri, 10 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action full 527 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! And today LuAnn will be doing a ‘Where Are They Now’ episode with Wendy Woloshchuk, who last made her appearance on A Well-Designed Business about two years ago.    What a... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! And today LuAnn will be doing a ‘Where Are They Now’ episode with Wendy Woloshchuk, who last made her appearance on A Well-Designed Business about two years ago.    What a difference those two years have made! Wendy is here to share the invaluable information she has learned from LuAnn Live and The Power Talk Friday Tour, the implementations to her business that resulted from that, and the profound impact it has had on her life.   You don’t want to miss this conversation! Get ready for some takeaways from this!   Wendy Woloshchuk believes that great interior design can change your everyday life. It’s about more than just beauty and function. It’s about creating a home that feels like a warm hug when you walk in after a long day. The details of your home create that feeling of comfort. She believes that interior design should be approachable, not intimidating! Her goal is not to make your house a showpiece, but to create a beautiful, comforting space and to see you enjoying it with friends and family. Wendy has been an interior designer and decorating enthusiast for as long as she can remember, and has been getting paid to do it since 2007, when she received her Interior Design Certification from Bay Path University. She is a frequent speaker and panelist at design events. She’s spoken for Facebook, been on multiple panels at High Point Market, was an invited guest at The Designer Experience, and was on the designhounds Influencer tour of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS).   Wendy is a Houzz influencer, has won multiple Houzz Service Awards, and is a Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She was also a Las Vegas Market Red Carpet Tour attendee. She has done multiple projects with the Make a Wish Foundation, and she’s a certified member of The Interior Design Society (IDS).   Wendy loves sharing interior design advice and ideas. She coaches interior designers from around the world and teaches both local and online workshops to interior designers, decorators and home stagers on the business of interior design, and offer free tips on design on her Facebook live show, The Daily Details! She’s been quoted and/or seen in: Designers Today Magazine The Sunday Republican The Palmer Journal Mydoma.com Window Fashion Vision magazine …and heard on: A Well-Designed Business podcast with LuAnn Nigara Home Stagers and Designers on Fire podcast with Marianne Cherico     When she’s not working on other people’s houses – or on the beach in Aruba – she’s in her own home in the woods, listening to podcasts or country music; cheering for the New England Patriots; or spending time with her husband, Mike (Wally), and their schnug, Ozzy.   Show Highlights:   As Wendy explains, she had a process, but it was inconsistent. Once she hired an assistant, she knew she had to have a better process in place. Wendy took the time to document her processes in a “Standards of Excellence Manual”, an idea she got from Ashley Uhl.  Wendy asked her assistant to write down her own documented processes as she experienced them after a month of being hired, then they compared notes. This allowed them to fine-tune the manual. Another idea she got from Ashley Uhl was sending a simple hand-written thank you note after a consult.  LuAnn loved the idea Wendy shared of sending “Happy Birthday to Your Room” cards to her clients after their first anniversary of doing business together. After year 5 and year 10, Wendy sends a card offering to refresh their room design. Wendy hired Nancy Ganzekaufer as a coach and worked with her for most of last year. One of the big areas in which Nancy helped was with Wendy’s numbers, so she increased both her hourly rates and her consults rates, and started charging her clients retail for product, which substantially increased her profits. All clients get a weekly update email very Friday updating them on their project and exactly what was accomplished over the past week. Nicole Heymer’s branding course helped Wendy to websites, social media. what she wanted from her website, so last year, Wendy worked with a copywriter to redesign her website, making it more relaxed and fun. Based on conversations over lunch with Debbe Daley and Marianne Cherico last year, Wendy, Debbe, and Marianne started the Design for Today Collaborative. They do in-person workshops at the Boston Design Center and other venues around New England. It’s a way to keep designers up to date on technology, websites, and social media but has grown to include staging coaching. LuAnn points out that Wendy’s success story is a great example of never being afraid of seeking help and knowledge from others, and taking that information you learn and putting it into practice.     Links / Resources:   LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post on LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday  Luannlive.com   LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to www.processleadstoprofits.com.   Connect with Wendy! Wendy’s YouTube Wendy’s Pinterest Wendy’s Facebook Wendy’s Instagram Wendy’s LinkedIn Wendy’s Website Design For Today Collaborative Facebook Page   Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:   FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! https://www.article.com   Previous Show Mentioned: Ashley Uhl #412 Nancy Ganzekaufer: #15, #159, #256, #389 Eileen Hahn #363 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274 Sarah Daniele #91, #177 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, #466 Debbe Daley #431 Marianne Cherico #123 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442 Sally Williams #496 Claire Jefford #237, #325, #485 Sara Brennan #463, #524 Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Welcome to a Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! And today LuAnn will be doing a ‘Where Are They Now’ episode with Wendy Woloshchuk, who last made her appearance on A Well-Designed Business about two years ago. 

 

What a difference those two years have made! Wendy is here to share the invaluable information she has learned from LuAnn Live and The Power Talk Friday Tour, the implementations to her business that resulted from that, and the profound impact it has had on her life.

 

You don’t want to miss this conversation! Get ready for some takeaways from this!

 

Wendy Woloshchuk believes that great interior design can change your everyday life. It’s about more than just beauty and function. It’s about creating a home that feels like a warm hug when you walk in after a long day. The details of your home create that feeling of comfort. She believes that interior design should be approachable, not intimidating! Her goal is not to make your house a showpiece, but to create a beautiful, comforting space and to see you enjoying it with friends and family. Wendy has been an interior designer and decorating enthusiast for as long as she can remember, and has been getting paid to do it since 2007, when she received her Interior Design Certification from Bay Path University. She is a frequent speaker and panelist at design events. She’s spoken for Facebook, been on multiple panels at High Point Market, was an invited guest at The Designer Experience, and was on the designhounds Influencer tour of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS).

 

Wendy is a Houzz influencer, has won multiple Houzz Service Awards, and is a Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She was also a Las Vegas Market Red Carpet Tour attendee. She has done multiple projects with the Make a Wish Foundation, and she’s a certified member of The Interior Design Society (IDS).

 

Wendy loves sharing interior design advice and ideas. She coaches interior designers from around the world and teaches both local and online workshops to interior designers, decorators and home stagers on the business of interior design, and offer free tips on design on her Facebook live show, The Daily Details!

She’s been quoted and/or seen in:

  • Designers Today Magazine
  • The Sunday Republican
  • The Palmer Journal
  • Mydoma.com
  • Window Fashion Vision magazine

…and heard on:

  • A Well-Designed Business podcast with LuAnn Nigara
  • Home Stagers and Designers on Fire podcast with Marianne Cherico

 

 

When she’s not working on other people’s houses – or on the beach in Aruba – she’s in her own home in the woods, listening to podcasts or country music; cheering for the New England Patriots; or spending time with her husband, Mike (Wally), and their schnug, Ozzy.

 

Show Highlights:

 

  • As Wendy explains, she had a process, but it was inconsistent. Once she hired an assistant, she knew she had to have a better process in place.
  • Wendy took the time to document her processes in a “Standards of Excellence Manual”, an idea she got from Ashley Uhl. 
  • Wendy asked her assistant to write down her own documented processes as she experienced them after a month of being hired, then they compared notes. This allowed them to fine-tune the manual.
  • Another idea she got from Ashley Uhl was sending a simple hand-written thank you note after a consult. 
  • LuAnn loved the idea Wendy shared of sending “Happy Birthday to Your Room” cards to her clients after their first anniversary of doing business together. After year 5 and year 10, Wendy sends a card offering to refresh their room design.
  • Wendy hired Nancy Ganzekaufer as a coach and worked with her for most of last year. One of the big areas in which Nancy helped was with Wendy’s numbers, so she increased both her hourly rates and her consults rates, and started charging her clients retail for product, which substantially increased her profits.
  • All clients get a weekly update email very Friday updating them on their project and exactly what was accomplished over the past week.
  • Nicole Heymer’s branding course helped Wendy to websites, social media. what she wanted from her website, so last year, Wendy worked with a copywriter to redesign her website, making it more relaxed and fun.
  • Based on conversations over lunch with Debbe Daley and Marianne Cherico last year, Wendy, Debbe, and Marianne started the Design for Today Collaborative. They do in-person workshops at the Boston Design Center and other venues around New England. It’s a way to keep designers up to date on technology, websites, and social media but has grown to include staging coaching.
  • LuAnn points out that Wendy’s success story is a great example of never being afraid of seeking help and knowledge from others, and taking that information you learn and putting it into practice.

 

 

Links / Resources:

 

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post on LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday 

Luannlive.com

 

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to www.processleadstoprofits.com.

 

Connect with Wendy!

Wendy’s YouTube

Wendy’s Pinterest

Wendy’s Facebook

Wendy’s Instagram

Wendy’s LinkedIn

Wendy’s Website

Design For Today Collaborative Facebook Page

 

Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:

 

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

 

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

https://www.article.com

 

Previous Show Mentioned:

Ashley Uhl #412

Nancy Ganzekaufer: #15, #159, #256, #389

Eileen Hahn #363

Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274

Sarah Daniele #91, #177

Nicole Heymer #125, #317, #466

Debbe Daley #431

Marianne Cherico #123

Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442

Sally Williams #496

Claire Jefford #237, #325, #485

Sara Brennan #463, #524

Wendy Woloshchuk #316

]]> 4162 no 526: Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/526-jaipur-living-ceo-asha-chaudhary Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! LuAnn is so excited to finally be able to introduce this new sponsor to the show by chatting with none other than the CEO of Jaipur Living, Asha Chaudhary! In this episode, you’ll be learning about Jaipur’s beauty, value, and social responsibility, as well as their customer-centric trade partner program and their easier-than-ever to browse website with stunning images. Listen in to the conversation and please welcome Jaipur Living to the family! As president and CEO of Jaipur Living, Inc., Asha Chaudhary brings a personal perspective to the rug industry: “I grew up around rugs all my life; it’s a part of me.” From a childhood spent observing weavers and designers, Chaudhary has grown into a powerful design force within the industry. As the rare female CEO, Chaudhary has built a thriving business across rug constructions and textile accessories. Chaudhary’s father NK founded Jaipur Rugs, India’s largest manufacturer of hand-knotted rugs. She watched as he took the company from nine weavers in the family home to a global presence that employs more than 40,000 artisans.  Chaudhary came to the U.S. in 1997 to attend Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, graduating in 2001 as a Dean’s List scholar with a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a concentration in Finance. Chaudhary just graduated with a certificate from the Owner/ President Management program at Harvard Business School. She is also an active member of the Entrepreneurs Organization, Young Presidents Organization, Nest and ASID.  After taking over leadership of the company’s U.S. operations in 2005, Chaudhary set out to expand on her father’s original vision to create beautiful lives through great design and respect for artisans. Today, she has broadened the company’s range of products and its customer base.  Chaudhary has overseen new product launches of pillows, poufs, and throws, and a major restructuring and re-branding of the company to Jaipur Living, Inc. Jaipur Living’s customer base has expanded to include a broad mix of retailers, e-commerce dealers, and a sizable, loyal interior design following.  Looking towards the future, Chaudhary wants to help bridge the world of handmade artistry with the end consumer. “I’d like them to understand and appreciate the harmony of the design process and their part in it - with the first spark of an idea, through the hands of an artisan, and ultimately into their home. And always with the intent to create beautiful lives.”. Show Highlights: Asha shares the compelling story of her childhood and her incredibly visionary parents. Jaipur Living is a family enterprise and Asha’s Father is known as “the Ghandi of the rug business”. Jaipur Living has a handmade, custom line of rugs and has award-winning designs and team: they were the winner of the last 2 Dallas ARTS Awards and 3 design awards in 2020 at Domotex in Germany. 95% of interior designers rate Jaipur Living as better than other rug companies when it comes to products and customer service. Asha praises the 40,000 artisans in more than 600 villages in India for the beautiful work that they do. These artisans earn a sustainable wage that far surpasses the industry average, and also receive access to healthcare, education, and social development opportunities, in partnership with the Jaipur Rugs Foundation. Asha’s personal favorite features on their newly-designed WEBSITE includes real-time inventory, Pantone color matching, instant quotes, and the ability to customize the size and shape of more than 600 rugs. Jaipur Living has a comprehensive swatch program: free swatches are available on every single product that they offer. Touch and feel, and share with your customers! They have THOUSANDS of products in stock and ready to ship, and orders ship within 4-6 hours of receipt of order. Jaipur Living works hard to design beautiful things across all price points, and they are proud of their dedicated customer service! Creating beautiful lives is the mission of Jaipur Living, and they strive to keep the art of weaving alive. The art of weaving is passed down from generation to generation. Asha shares how each and every rug has a story behind it. LuAnn addresses the designers listening to the show regarding the value and practical reasons that it makes sense to work with Jaipur Living. In future episodes, LuAnn will be sharing more about the value, features, and benefits of working with Jaipur Living, so stay tuned! Thank you, Asha and Jaipur Living, for sponsoring this podcast! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Luann Live LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Please Extend A Warm Welcome to Our New Sponsor By Visiting Their Links! Jaipur’s Purpose Is To Create Beautiful Lives! Get Started Creating Yours, Now! Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Jaipur Living’s Instagram: #jaipurliving Jaipur Living’s Facebook Jaipur Living’s Pinterest Book Mentioned: The Healing Organization: Awakening the Conscience of Business to Help Save the World  by Raj Sisodia and Michael J. Gelb   Thu, 09 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary full 526 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! LuAnn is so excited to finally be able to introduce this new sponsor to the show by chatting with none other than the CEO of Jaipur Living, Asha Chaudhary! In this episode, you’ll be learning about Jaipur’s... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! LuAnn is so excited to finally be able to introduce this new sponsor to the show by chatting with none other than the CEO of Jaipur Living, Asha Chaudhary! In this episode, you’ll be learning about Jaipur’s beauty, value, and social responsibility, as well as their customer-centric trade partner program and their easier-than-ever to browse website with stunning images. Listen in to the conversation and please welcome Jaipur Living to the family! As president and CEO of Jaipur Living, Inc., Asha Chaudhary brings a personal perspective to the rug industry: “I grew up around rugs all my life; it’s a part of me.” From a childhood spent observing weavers and designers, Chaudhary has grown into a powerful design force within the industry. As the rare female CEO, Chaudhary has built a thriving business across rug constructions and textile accessories. Chaudhary’s father NK founded Jaipur Rugs, India’s largest manufacturer of hand-knotted rugs. She watched as he took the company from nine weavers in the family home to a global presence that employs more than 40,000 artisans.  Chaudhary came to the U.S. in 1997 to attend Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, graduating in 2001 as a Dean’s List scholar with a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a concentration in Finance. Chaudhary just graduated with a certificate from the Owner/ President Management program at Harvard Business School. She is also an active member of the Entrepreneurs Organization, Young Presidents Organization, Nest and ASID.  After taking over leadership of the company’s U.S. operations in 2005, Chaudhary set out to expand on her father’s original vision to create beautiful lives through great design and respect for artisans. Today, she has broadened the company’s range of products and its customer base.  Chaudhary has overseen new product launches of pillows, poufs, and throws, and a major restructuring and re-branding of the company to Jaipur Living, Inc. Jaipur Living’s customer base has expanded to include a broad mix of retailers, e-commerce dealers, and a sizable, loyal interior design following.  Looking towards the future, Chaudhary wants to help bridge the world of handmade artistry with the end consumer. “I’d like them to understand and appreciate the harmony of the design process and their part in it - with the first spark of an idea, through the hands of an artisan, and ultimately into their home. And always with the intent to create beautiful lives.”. Show Highlights: Asha shares the compelling story of her childhood and her incredibly visionary parents. Jaipur Living is a family enterprise and Asha’s Father is known as “the Ghandi of the rug business”. Jaipur Living has a handmade, custom line of rugs and has award-winning designs and team: they were the winner of the last 2 Dallas ARTS Awards and 3 design awards in 2020 at Domotex in Germany. 95% of interior designers rate Jaipur Living as better than other rug companies when it comes to products and customer service. Asha praises the 40,000 artisans in more than 600 villages in India for the beautiful work that they do. These artisans earn a sustainable wage that far surpasses the industry average, and also receive access to healthcare, education, and social development opportunities, in partnership with the Jaipur Rugs Foundation. Asha’s personal favorite features on their newly-designed WEBSITE includes real-time inventory, Pantone color matching, instant quotes, and the ability to customize the size and shape of more than 600 rugs. Jaipur Living has a comprehensive swatch program: free swatches are available on every single product that they offer. Touch and feel, and share with your customers! They have THOUSANDS of products in stock and ready to ship, and orders ship within 4-6 hours of receipt of order. Jaipur Living works hard to design beautiful things across all price points, and they are proud of their dedicated customer service! Creating beautiful lives is the mission of Jaipur Living, and they strive to keep the art of weaving alive. The art of weaving is passed down from generation to generation. Asha shares how each and every rug has a story behind it. LuAnn addresses the designers listening to the show regarding the value and practical reasons that it makes sense to work with Jaipur Living. In future episodes, LuAnn will be sharing more about the value, features, and benefits of working with Jaipur Living, so stay tuned! Thank you, Asha and Jaipur Living, for sponsoring this podcast! Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday Luann Live LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Please Extend A Warm Welcome to Our New Sponsor By Visiting Their Links! Jaipur’s Purpose Is To Create Beautiful Lives! Get Started Creating Yours, Now! Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Jaipur Living’s Instagram: #jaipurliving Jaipur Living’s Facebook Jaipur Living’s Pinterest Book Mentioned: The Healing Organization: Awakening the Conscience of Business to Help Save the World  by Raj Sisodia and Michael J. Gelb   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! LuAnn is so excited to finally be able to introduce this new sponsor to the show by chatting with none other than the CEO of Jaipur Living, Asha Chaudhary!

In this episode, you’ll be learning about Jaipur’s beauty, value, and social responsibility, as well as their customer-centric trade partner program and their easier-than-ever to browse website with stunning images.

Listen in to the conversation and please welcome Jaipur Living to the family!

As president and CEO of Jaipur Living, Inc., Asha Chaudhary brings a personal perspective to the rug industry: “I grew up around rugs all my life; it’s a part of me.”

From a childhood spent observing weavers and designers, Chaudhary has grown into a powerful design force within the industry. As the rare female CEO, Chaudhary has built a thriving business across rug constructions and textile accessories. Chaudhary’s father NK founded Jaipur Rugs, India’s largest manufacturer of hand-knotted rugs. She watched as he took the company from nine weavers in the family home to a global presence that employs more than 40,000 artisans. 

Chaudhary came to the U.S. in 1997 to attend Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, graduating in 2001 as a Dean’s List scholar with a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a concentration in Finance. Chaudhary just graduated with a certificate from the Owner/ President Management program at Harvard Business School. She is also an active member of the Entrepreneurs Organization, Young Presidents Organization, Nest and ASID. 

After taking over leadership of the company’s U.S. operations in 2005, Chaudhary set out to expand on her father’s original vision to create beautiful lives through great design and respect for artisans. Today, she has broadened the company’s range of products and its customer base. 

Chaudhary has overseen new product launches of pillows, poufs, and throws, and a major restructuring and re-branding of the company to Jaipur Living, Inc. Jaipur Living’s customer base has expanded to include a broad mix of retailers, e-commerce dealers, and a sizable, loyal interior design following. 

Looking towards the future, Chaudhary wants to help bridge the world of handmade artistry with the end consumer. “I’d like them to understand and appreciate the harmony of the design process and their part in it - with the first spark of an idea, through the hands of an artisan, and ultimately into their home. And always with the intent to create beautiful lives.”.

Show Highlights:

  • Asha shares the compelling story of her childhood and her incredibly visionary parents.
  • Jaipur Living is a family enterprise and Asha’s Father is known as “the Ghandi of the rug business”.
  • Jaipur Living has a handmade, custom line of rugs and has award-winning designs and team: they were the winner of the last 2 Dallas ARTS Awards and 3 design awards in 2020 at Domotex in Germany.
  • 95% of interior designers rate Jaipur Living as better than other rug companies when it comes to products and customer service.
  • Asha praises the 40,000 artisans in more than 600 villages in India for the beautiful work that they do. These artisans earn a sustainable wage that far surpasses the industry average, and also receive access to healthcare, education, and social development opportunities, in partnership with the Jaipur Rugs Foundation.
  • Asha’s personal favorite features on their newly-designed WEBSITE includes real-time inventory, Pantone color matching, instant quotes, and the ability to customize the size and shape of more than 600 rugs.
  • Jaipur Living has a comprehensive swatch program: free swatches are available on every single product that they offer. Touch and feel, and share with your customers!
  • They have THOUSANDS of products in stock and ready to ship, and orders ship within 4-6 hours of receipt of order.
  • Jaipur Living works hard to design beautiful things across all price points, and they are proud of their dedicated customer service!
  • Creating beautiful lives is the mission of Jaipur Living, and they strive to keep the art of weaving alive. The art of weaving is passed down from generation to generation.
  • Asha shares how each and every rug has a story behind it.
  • LuAnn addresses the designers listening to the show regarding the value and practical reasons that it makes sense to work with Jaipur Living.
  • In future episodes, LuAnn will be sharing more about the value, features, and benefits of working with Jaipur Living, so stay tuned!
  • Thank you, Asha and Jaipur Living, for sponsoring this podcast!

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Luann Live

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

Please Extend A Warm Welcome to Our New Sponsor By Visiting Their Links!

Jaipur’s Purpose Is To Create Beautiful Lives! Get Started Creating Yours, Now!

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship!

Jaipur Living’s Instagram: #jaipurliving

Jaipur Living’s Facebook

Jaipur Living’s Pinterest

Book Mentioned:

The Healing Organization: Awakening the Conscience of Business to Help Save the World  by Raj Sisodia and Michael J. Gelb

 

]]> 2993 no 525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/525-traci-connell-take-your-business-from-setback-to-success Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today is a special episode because it features a #smartlady that LuAnn has come to know over the last several months and has been impressed by how thoughtfully and purposefully she runs her interior design firm. Traci Connell joins LuAnn and weaves in info not only about how she designs, but how she delivers the design process to her clients. You’re going to learn how Traci reflected, analyzed, and documented what she did, how she did it, and what worked and what didn’t, all in the face of tremendous anguish and hardship. Traci is the combination of a sweet, southern lady with the grit and fortitude it takes to not only survive but to thrive and to provide for herself, her family and her staff. Traci Connell is an award-winning creative entrepreneur whose business sense and design skills are combined with a passion for delivering interiors that are at the heart of livable style. Her well-edited spaces feature functionality for a distinctive aesthetic she calls Ease of Glamour. She gives you luxury you can live in along with an innovative customer service experience that saves you time and money. High-end design, business savvy and a simplicity-driven approach — that’s what makes Traci one of leading interior designers in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Traci’s projects have been featured on the cover of Luxe Interiors and Design as well as projects showcased in Traditional Home, among numerous other publications. She has been named D Home Best Designer of 2018, 2019, and 2020 and was included in the 2018 Gold List by Luxe Interiors and Design. Her latest endeavor is her consulting business to teach other designers how to get unstuck and scale their business just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others. Check out her website Traci Connell for more details. Show Highlights: Traci shares her story and describes how she was trying to up-level her business during a trying time but couldn’t get any straight answers to the questions she had. This experience gave her the desire to help other designers who are experiencing setbacks to get unstuck. Remember that you have a choice! Get vulnerable and accept help from coaches, mentors, or whoever it takes. There’s no reason to go it alone. Put your business under a magnifying glass and take a hard look at your finances, margins, and revenue streams. Evaluate your pipeline and run your projections for the year. Create processes and systems for your business. As Traci explains, this is KEY in being able to confidently deliver an excellent client experience, to be able to scale, and to be able to take time off from your business when you need it to take care of yourself, especially if you may be in crisis like she was as she built her business. It is critical to build the right team. You must surround yourself with a team that can execute and help grow and run your firm profitably. Traci shares her concept of “Ease of Glamour”, which is livable luxury, and tips on how she streamlined her own personal life. The confidence behind finding your niche is super-important. Always deliver more than what is expected. This communicates value to the client. Traci is coaching and teaching other designers like you to go from setbacks to success using her proven system that she has tested and developed over the past 8 years. For more info go to Traci Connell. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Is Chairman of the Board Right for Your Business? LuAnn Nigara Connect with Traci! Traci’sEmail  Traci’s Coaching Website Traci’s Interiors Website Traci’s Instagram Traci’s Facebook Traci’s Pinterest SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: If you are listening in real-time, we are on the 2nd day of our epic online summit hosted by Mydoma Studio. It is called 19Hours. A huge thanks to Mydoma Studio as well as our other sponsors: Kravet, Article, Kirsch, Jaipur Living, Monogram, IDS, Revelwoods, Summer Classics, and Gaby Home. Traci will be on LuAnn’s panel Thursday, April 9th, along with Sandra Funk, Monica Wilcox, and Tobi Fairley. Don’t miss it!! Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Other Shows Mentioned: LuAnn #491 Chairman of the Board Opportunity Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389 Nicole Cole #509 Kim Merlitti #361, #442 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, #424 Denise Wenacur #513 For conversation about the importance of reciprocal mentoring and paid coaching, go to Rasheeda Gray #267, Christina Bruce #486, Laurence Carr #484 and Laura Umansky #492 For a good conversation about taking a hard look at your finances, go back and re-listen to Cheryl Clendenon’s show #482 as well as Kimberly Merlitti #442. Conversations about creating processes and systems for your business include: Sara Brennan #463, Darci Hether #220 and Christine Lin #470. For shows about building the right teams, go to Eileen Hahn #363, Janelle Photopoulus #364, Rebecca Richardson #303, and Chad James #68.   Tue, 07 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success full 525 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today is a special episode because it features a #smartlady that LuAnn has come to know over the last several months and has been impressed by how thoughtfully and purposefully she runs her interior design firm.... Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today is a special episode because it features a #smartlady that LuAnn has come to know over the last several months and has been impressed by how thoughtfully and purposefully she runs her interior design firm. Traci Connell joins LuAnn and weaves in info not only about how she designs, but how she delivers the design process to her clients. You’re going to learn how Traci reflected, analyzed, and documented what she did, how she did it, and what worked and what didn’t, all in the face of tremendous anguish and hardship. Traci is the combination of a sweet, southern lady with the grit and fortitude it takes to not only survive but to thrive and to provide for herself, her family and her staff. Traci Connell is an award-winning creative entrepreneur whose business sense and design skills are combined with a passion for delivering interiors that are at the heart of livable style. Her well-edited spaces feature functionality for a distinctive aesthetic she calls Ease of Glamour. She gives you luxury you can live in along with an innovative customer service experience that saves you time and money. High-end design, business savvy and a simplicity-driven approach — that’s what makes Traci one of leading interior designers in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Traci’s projects have been featured on the cover of Luxe Interiors and Design as well as projects showcased in Traditional Home, among numerous other publications. She has been named D Home Best Designer of 2018, 2019, and 2020 and was included in the 2018 Gold List by Luxe Interiors and Design. Her latest endeavor is her consulting business to teach other designers how to get unstuck and scale their business just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others. Check out her website Traci Connell for more details. Show Highlights: Traci shares her story and describes how she was trying to up-level her business during a trying time but couldn’t get any straight answers to the questions she had. This experience gave her the desire to help other designers who are experiencing setbacks to get unstuck. Remember that you have a choice! Get vulnerable and accept help from coaches, mentors, or whoever it takes. There’s no reason to go it alone. Put your business under a magnifying glass and take a hard look at your finances, margins, and revenue streams. Evaluate your pipeline and run your projections for the year. Create processes and systems for your business. As Traci explains, this is KEY in being able to confidently deliver an excellent client experience, to be able to scale, and to be able to take time off from your business when you need it to take care of yourself, especially if you may be in crisis like she was as she built her business. It is critical to build the right team. You must surround yourself with a team that can execute and help grow and run your firm profitably. Traci shares her concept of “Ease of Glamour”, which is livable luxury, and tips on how she streamlined her own personal life. The confidence behind finding your niche is super-important. Always deliver more than what is expected. This communicates value to the client. Traci is coaching and teaching other designers like you to go from setbacks to success using her proven system that she has tested and developed over the past 8 years. For more info go to Traci Connell. Links : LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22! If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits. Is Chairman of the Board Right for Your Business? LuAnn Nigara Connect with Traci! Traci’sEmail  Traci’s Coaching Website Traci’s Interiors Website Traci’s Instagram Traci’s Facebook Traci’s Pinterest SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: If you are listening in real-time, we are on the 2nd day of our epic online summit hosted by Mydoma Studio. It is called 19Hours. A huge thanks to Mydoma Studio as well as our other sponsors: Kravet, Article, Kirsch, Jaipur Living, Monogram, IDS, Revelwoods, Summer Classics, and Gaby Home. Traci will be on LuAnn’s panel Thursday, April 9th, along with Sandra Funk, Monica Wilcox, and Tobi Fairley. Don’t miss it!! Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Other Shows Mentioned: LuAnn #491 Chairman of the Board Opportunity Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389 Nicole Cole #509 Kim Merlitti #361, #442 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, #424 Denise Wenacur #513 For conversation about the importance of reciprocal mentoring and paid coaching, go to Rasheeda Gray #267, Christina Bruce #486, Laurence Carr #484 and Laura Umansky #492 For a good conversation about taking a hard look at your finances, go back and re-listen to Cheryl Clendenon’s show #482 as well as Kimberly Merlitti #442. Conversations about creating processes and systems for your business include: Sara Brennan #463, Darci Hether #220 and Christine Lin #470. For shows about building the right teams, go to Eileen Hahn #363, Janelle Photopoulus #364, Rebecca Richardson #303, and Chad James #68.   Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! Today is a special episode because it features a #smartlady that LuAnn has come to know over the last several months and has been impressed by how thoughtfully and purposefully she runs her interior design firm. Traci Connell joins LuAnn and weaves in info not only about how she designs, but how she delivers the design process to her clients.

You’re going to learn how Traci reflected, analyzed, and documented what she did, how she did it, and what worked and what didn’t, all in the face of tremendous anguish and hardship.

Traci is the combination of a sweet, southern lady with the grit and fortitude it takes to not only survive but to thrive and to provide for herself, her family and her staff.

Traci Connell is an award-winning creative entrepreneur whose business sense and design skills are combined with a passion for delivering interiors that are at the heart of livable style. Her well-edited spaces feature functionality for a distinctive aesthetic she calls Ease of Glamour. She gives you luxury you can live in along with an innovative customer service experience that saves you time and money. High-end design, business savvy and a simplicity-driven approach — that’s what makes Traci one of leading interior designers in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Traci’s projects have been featured on the cover of Luxe Interiors and Design as well as projects showcased in Traditional Home, among numerous other publications. She has been named D Home Best Designer of 2018, 2019, and 2020 and was included in the 2018 Gold List by Luxe Interiors and Design.

Her latest endeavor is her consulting business to teach other designers how to get unstuck and scale their business just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others. Check out her website Traci Connell for more details.


Show Highlights:

  • Traci shares her story and describes how she was trying to up-level her business during a trying time but couldn’t get any straight answers to the questions she had.
  • This experience gave her the desire to help other designers who are experiencing setbacks to get unstuck.
  • Remember that you have a choice!
  • Get vulnerable and accept help from coaches, mentors, or whoever it takes. There’s no reason to go it alone.
  • Put your business under a magnifying glass and take a hard look at your finances, margins, and revenue streams. Evaluate your pipeline and run your projections for the year.
  • Create processes and systems for your business. As Traci explains, this is KEY in being able to confidently deliver an excellent client experience, to be able to scale, and to be able to take time off from your business when you need it to take care of yourself, especially if you may be in crisis like she was as she built her business.
  • It is critical to build the right team. You must surround yourself with a team that can execute and help grow and run your firm profitably.
  • Traci shares her concept of “Ease of Glamour”, which is livable luxury, and tips on how she streamlined her own personal life.
  • The confidence behind finding your niche is super-important.
  • Always deliver more than what is expected. This communicates value to the client.
  • Traci is coaching and teaching other designers like you to go from setbacks to success using her proven system that she has tested and developed over the past 8 years. For more info go to Traci Connell.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

LIVE CLASS with Sara Lynn Brennan, Starting April 22!

If you need help with your processes, in getting your business systemized so you can scale, you can hire, you can finally be confident in your projects, Process Leads to Profits is back! To find out all about this live class, taught over 6 consecutive weeks starting April 22, go to Process Leads To Profits.

Is Chairman of the Board Right for Your Business?

LuAnn Nigara

Connect with Traci!

Traci’sEmail 

Traci’s Coaching Website

Traci’s Interiors Website

Traci’s Instagram

Traci’s Facebook

Traci’s Pinterest

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:

If you are listening in real-time, we are on the 2nd day of our epic online summit hosted by Mydoma Studio. It is called 19Hours.

A huge thanks to Mydoma Studio as well as our other sponsors: Kravet, Article, Kirsch, Jaipur Living, Monogram, IDS, Revelwoods, Summer Classics, and Gaby Home.

Traci will be on LuAnn’s panel Thursday, April 9th, along with Sandra Funk, Monica Wilcox, and Tobi Fairley. Don’t miss it!!

  • Event: 19hours
  • Hosted by: Mydoma Studio
  • Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th
  • This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT!
  • Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST.
  • It will be recorded for later viewing.
  • This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market.
  • DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers!
  • To Sign Up, Go to 19hours

Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor:

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

Other Shows Mentioned:

LuAnn #491 Chairman of the Board Opportunity

Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159, #256, #389

Nicole Cole #509

Kim Merlitti #361, #442

Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, #424

Denise Wenacur #513

For conversation about the importance of reciprocal mentoring and paid coaching, go to Rasheeda Gray #267, Christina Bruce #486, Laurence Carr #484 and Laura Umansky #492

For a good conversation about taking a hard look at your finances, go back and re-listen to Cheryl Clendenon’s show #482 as well as Kimberly Merlitti #442.

Conversations about creating processes and systems for your business include: Sara Brennan #463, Darci Hether #220 and Christine Lin #470.

For shows about building the right teams, go to Eileen Hahn #363, Janelle Photopoulus #364, Rebecca Richardson #303, and Chad James #68.

 

]]> 3604 no 524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/524-power-talk-friday-sara-lynn-brennan-showing-up-is-not-enough Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Sara Lynn Brennan joins  LuAnn to chat about faith or fear. Earlier this year, Sara wrote a blogpost titled, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?” and in the midst of the current pandemic, it seems like a great time to re-visit her reflections. Although her original intent had nothing to do with the Corona Virus, there are lessons in the article that are certainly timely and applicable to our current situation. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: LuAnn’s interview with Candy Scott in Episode 279 was the inspiration behind Sara’s blogpost, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?”. A lot of drama stems from fear, and this was Sara’s epiphany that even the design experts have the same doubts as everybody. Be prepared for problems, but having the right processes in place will give you confidence that you’ve covered all of your bases. Problems that might occur will not be because you weren’t following through. Drama in projects can stem from lack of communication, expectations, mistakes, personalities, etc. How you handle it is what makes all of the difference. Look for common ground where your clients feel heard and happy. If you’re working from home during this outbreak, explain upfront to your client that your kids are home and there may be some interruptions during a phone call. Conversely, if you’re talking with a client and their kids are home and interrupting, don’t roll your eyes or express frustration. Let them know it’s ok because you’re both in the situation together. Offer to reschedule if that is better for them. This quarantine is slowing us all down and giving us common ground, and opening up opportunities to have hard conversations. LuAnn addresses fear and the ways it can impact our business relationships. Sara offers ideas to make things happen during this downtime. Know your worth! Doing your best isn’t just what you showed up that day, doing. Doing your best is being prepared to do your best and doing extra. Gather your best resources, and spend your time sourcing so that you have the opportunity to provide your finest services. Showing up with a plan, some knowledge, and a background will separate you from the others who are just showing up. This is what Sara means when she says, “Showing up is not enough.” Are you going to be the person who deflects and doesn’t want to look bad? Or are you going to be the person that owns it because you can see where it went wrong and you’re going to make it better? Take this time to re-organize and streamline your business. The more informed the client is, the further along you can get with them, faster. Clarity is key and comes from preparation. Links:  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Interior Design Standard IWCE 2020 Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website Sara’sInstagram Process Leads to Profits- Starts April 22nd! Get Your Early Bird Pricing Now! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Monogram - Work with Us Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere! Article Previous Shows Mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389 Nicole Heymer: 125, 317, 466 Candy Scott: 227 Sandra Funk: 02, 145 Sara Lynn Brennan: 463, 514   Fri, 03 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough full 524 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Sara Lynn Brennan joins  LuAnn to chat about faith or fear. Earlier this year, Sara wrote a blogpost titled, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?” and in... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Sara Lynn Brennan joins  LuAnn to chat about faith or fear. Earlier this year, Sara wrote a blogpost titled, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?” and in the midst of the current pandemic, it seems like a great time to re-visit her reflections. Although her original intent had nothing to do with the Corona Virus, there are lessons in the article that are certainly timely and applicable to our current situation. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: LuAnn’s interview with Candy Scott in Episode 279 was the inspiration behind Sara’s blogpost, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?”. A lot of drama stems from fear, and this was Sara’s epiphany that even the design experts have the same doubts as everybody. Be prepared for problems, but having the right processes in place will give you confidence that you’ve covered all of your bases. Problems that might occur will not be because you weren’t following through. Drama in projects can stem from lack of communication, expectations, mistakes, personalities, etc. How you handle it is what makes all of the difference. Look for common ground where your clients feel heard and happy. If you’re working from home during this outbreak, explain upfront to your client that your kids are home and there may be some interruptions during a phone call. Conversely, if you’re talking with a client and their kids are home and interrupting, don’t roll your eyes or express frustration. Let them know it’s ok because you’re both in the situation together. Offer to reschedule if that is better for them. This quarantine is slowing us all down and giving us common ground, and opening up opportunities to have hard conversations. LuAnn addresses fear and the ways it can impact our business relationships. Sara offers ideas to make things happen during this downtime. Know your worth! Doing your best isn’t just what you showed up that day, doing. Doing your best is being prepared to do your best and doing extra. Gather your best resources, and spend your time sourcing so that you have the opportunity to provide your finest services. Showing up with a plan, some knowledge, and a background will separate you from the others who are just showing up. This is what Sara means when she says, “Showing up is not enough.” Are you going to be the person who deflects and doesn’t want to look bad? Or are you going to be the person that owns it because you can see where it went wrong and you’re going to make it better? Take this time to re-organize and streamline your business. The more informed the client is, the further along you can get with them, faster. Clarity is key and comes from preparation. Links:  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Power Talk Friday SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Interior Design Standard IWCE 2020 Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website Sara’sInstagram Process Leads to Profits- Starts April 22nd! Get Your Early Bird Pricing Now! Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Monogram - Work with Us Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere! Article Previous Shows Mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389 Nicole Heymer: 125, 317, 466 Candy Scott: 227 Sandra Funk: 02, 145 Sara Lynn Brennan: 463, 514   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Sara Lynn Brennan joins  LuAnn to chat about faith or fear. Earlier this year, Sara wrote a blogpost titled, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?” and in the midst of the current pandemic, it seems like a great time to re-visit her reflections. Although her original intent had nothing to do with the Corona Virus, there are lessons in the article that are certainly timely and applicable to our current situation.

Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn’s interview with Candy Scott in Episode 279 was the inspiration behind Sara’s blogpost, “Are You Operating Your Design Business Out of Faith or Fear?”.
  • A lot of drama stems from fear, and this was Sara’s epiphany that even the design experts have the same doubts as everybody.
  • Be prepared for problems, but having the right processes in place will give you confidence that you’ve covered all of your bases. Problems that might occur will not be because you weren’t following through.
  • Drama in projects can stem from lack of communication, expectations, mistakes, personalities, etc. How you handle it is what makes all of the difference. Look for common ground where your clients feel heard and happy.
  • If you’re working from home during this outbreak, explain upfront to your client that your kids are home and there may be some interruptions during a phone call.
  • Conversely, if you’re talking with a client and their kids are home and interrupting, don’t roll your eyes or express frustration. Let them know it’s ok because you’re both in the situation together. Offer to reschedule if that is better for them.
  • This quarantine is slowing us all down and giving us common ground, and opening up opportunities to have hard conversations.
  • LuAnn addresses fear and the ways it can impact our business relationships.
  • Sara offers ideas to make things happen during this downtime. Know your worth!
  • Doing your best isn’t just what you showed up that day, doing. Doing your best is being prepared to do your best and doing extra.
  • Gather your best resources, and spend your time sourcing so that you have the opportunity to provide your finest services.
  • Showing up with a plan, some knowledge, and a background will separate you from the others who are just showing up. This is what Sara means when she says, “Showing up is not enough.”
  • Are you going to be the person who deflects and doesn’t want to look bad? Or are you going to be the person that owns it because you can see where it went wrong and you’re going to make it better?
  • Take this time to re-organize and streamline your business.
  • The more informed the client is, the further along you can get with them, faster.
  • Clarity is key and comes from preparation.

Links: 

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:

  • Event: 19hours
  • Hosted by: Mydoma Studio
  • Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th
  • This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT!
  • Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST.
  • It will be recorded for later viewing.
  • This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market.
  • DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers!
  • To Sign Up, Go to 19hours

Interior Design Standard

IWCE 2020

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Website

Sara’sInstagram

Process Leads to Profits- Starts April 22nd! Get Your Early Bird Pricing Now!

Sara’s Blog post onLuAnn’sBlog

Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Monogram - Work with Us

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere!

Article

Previous Shows Mentioned:

Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389

Nicole Heymer: 125, 317, 466

Candy Scott: 227

Sandra Funk: 02, 145

Sara Lynn Brennan: 463, 514

 

]]> 3740 no 523: Leah Meyer Perez: Overcoming Fears and Insecurities http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/523-leah-mayey-perez-overcoming-fears-and-insecuritie Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn brings you a very special conversation today, one that may hit very close to home for many of us; mental illness. Bearing that in mind, I must also say that this show was recorded months ago before the word COVID 19 was even legitimately on our radar. Even though the topic of mental illness can be sensitive, it’s important to talk about it.  Whether mental illness affects us personally or affects one of our loved ones, you’re not going to want to miss this intimate talk. LuAnn’s guest is Leah M. Meyer Perez, and Leah will be sharing how she overcame her own internal struggles while trying to run a business. She wants to share her story and bring it out in the open so that we as a community don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking for help. She encourages an environment of support and care for each other. Leah M. Meyer Perez is the CEO/Principal Designer of Leah May Interior Design. Like so many of you, from an early age Leah was creative and had a natural talent for interiors. From her artistic flair in art class to tinkering in the garage with her Father, Leah’s path was destined for design. Leah has earned an extensive knowledge of fabrics and furniture by working for several boutique interior firms including a custom furniture workshop and drapery workroom. In 2014, taking a leap of faith, Leah opened her residential interior design firm and as you will learn today, Leah has had to overcome more than simply understanding marketing, bookkeeping, and pipeline building in order to be successful. If you are listening and you are struggling with serious thoughts of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, or isolation, there is no podcast for that. Please reach out, and have a friend help you find qualified help. You deserve to be happy and fulfilled and like Leah, with true professional therapy, it IS possible. Show Highlights: First: It’s Ok to have fears and insecurities. You just have to find the courage to talk to somebody about them and work through them. Leah shares how her symptoms of mental illness manifested in her personal and business lives. Understand self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviors by learning to be self-aware. Therapy can help you discover the heart of the issues. Learning that she was a negative person and realizing that she had to start being grateful was a turning point in Leah’s life. Appreciate all of the things you’re good at doing. Leah strives to push past the fear of talking about mental illness. What other people think of you does NOT define you. You must be open to help. You cannot change another person, but you can learn to change how you respond to a person. You never know what another person is going through. Share a high-five with someone who you think could use it, and if you’re inclined, tell someone you talk with today something nice so that they have a positive thought in their head when you part. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE-Vision My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Connect with Leah! Leah’s Website Leah’s Facebook Leah’s Instagram Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Other shows mentioned to link to and tag in Social Media Alex Gourlay # 447 Wendy Glaister # 386 Desi Creswell # 475     Tue, 31 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Leah Meyer Perez: Overcoming Fears and Insecurities full 523 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn brings you a very special conversation today, one that may hit very close to home for many of us; mental illness. Bearing that in mind, I must also say that this show was recorded months ago before the word... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn brings you a very special conversation today, one that may hit very close to home for many of us; mental illness. Bearing that in mind, I must also say that this show was recorded months ago before the word COVID 19 was even legitimately on our radar. Even though the topic of mental illness can be sensitive, it’s important to talk about it.  Whether mental illness affects us personally or affects one of our loved ones, you’re not going to want to miss this intimate talk. LuAnn’s guest is Leah M. Meyer Perez, and Leah will be sharing how she overcame her own internal struggles while trying to run a business. She wants to share her story and bring it out in the open so that we as a community don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking for help. She encourages an environment of support and care for each other. Leah M. Meyer Perez is the CEO/Principal Designer of Leah May Interior Design. Like so many of you, from an early age Leah was creative and had a natural talent for interiors. From her artistic flair in art class to tinkering in the garage with her Father, Leah’s path was destined for design. Leah has earned an extensive knowledge of fabrics and furniture by working for several boutique interior firms including a custom furniture workshop and drapery workroom. In 2014, taking a leap of faith, Leah opened her residential interior design firm and as you will learn today, Leah has had to overcome more than simply understanding marketing, bookkeeping, and pipeline building in order to be successful. If you are listening and you are struggling with serious thoughts of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, or isolation, there is no podcast for that. Please reach out, and have a friend help you find qualified help. You deserve to be happy and fulfilled and like Leah, with true professional therapy, it IS possible. Show Highlights: First: It’s Ok to have fears and insecurities. You just have to find the courage to talk to somebody about them and work through them. Leah shares how her symptoms of mental illness manifested in her personal and business lives. Understand self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviors by learning to be self-aware. Therapy can help you discover the heart of the issues. Learning that she was a negative person and realizing that she had to start being grateful was a turning point in Leah’s life. Appreciate all of the things you’re good at doing. Leah strives to push past the fear of talking about mental illness. What other people think of you does NOT define you. You must be open to help. You cannot change another person, but you can learn to change how you respond to a person. You never know what another person is going through. Share a high-five with someone who you think could use it, and if you’re inclined, tell someone you talk with today something nice so that they have a positive thought in their head when you part. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE-Vision My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Connect with Leah! Leah’s Website Leah’s Facebook Leah’s Instagram Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Other shows mentioned to link to and tag in Social Media Alex Gourlay # 447 Wendy Glaister # 386 Desi Creswell # 475     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn brings you a very special conversation today, one that may hit very close to home for many of us; mental illness. Bearing that in mind, I must also say that this show was recorded months ago before the word COVID 19 was even legitimately on our radar. Even though the topic of mental illness can be sensitive, it’s important to talk about it.  Whether mental illness affects us personally or affects one of our loved ones, you’re not going to want to miss this intimate talk.

LuAnn’s guest is Leah M. Meyer Perez, and Leah will be sharing how she overcame her own internal struggles while trying to run a business. She wants to share her story and bring it out in the open so that we as a community don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking for help. She encourages an environment of support and care for each other.

Leah M. Meyer Perez is the CEO/Principal Designer of Leah May Interior Design. Like so many of you, from an early age Leah was creative and had a natural talent for interiors. From her artistic flair in art class to tinkering in the garage with her Father, Leah’s path was destined for design.

Leah has earned an extensive knowledge of fabrics and furniture by working for several boutique interior firms including a custom furniture workshop and drapery workroom.

In 2014, taking a leap of faith, Leah opened her residential interior design firm and as you will learn today, Leah has had to overcome more than simply understanding marketing, bookkeeping, and pipeline building in order to be successful.

If you are listening and you are struggling with serious thoughts of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, or isolation, there is no podcast for that. Please reach out, and have a friend help you find qualified help. You deserve to be happy and fulfilled and like Leah, with true professional therapy, it IS possible.

Show Highlights:

  • First: It’s Ok to have fears and insecurities. You just have to find the courage to talk to somebody about them and work through them.
  • Leah shares how her symptoms of mental illness manifested in her personal and business lives.
  • Understand self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviors by learning to be self-aware.
  • Therapy can help you discover the heart of the issues.
  • Learning that she was a negative person and realizing that she had to start being grateful was a turning point in Leah’s life.
  • Appreciate all of the things you’re good at doing.
  • Leah strives to push past the fear of talking about mental illness.
  • What other people think of you does NOT define you.
  • You must be open to help.
  • You cannot change another person, but you can learn to change how you respond to a person.
  • You never know what another person is going through.
  • Share a high-five with someone who you think could use it, and if you’re inclined, tell someone you talk with today something nice so that they have a positive thought in their head when you part.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

WCAA

Exciting Windows

IWCE-Vision

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Connect with Leah!

Leah’s Website

Leah’s Facebook

Leah’s Instagram

Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Other shows mentioned to link to and tag in Social Media

Alex Gourlay # 447

Wendy Glaister # 386

Desi Creswell # 475

 

 

]]> 4542 no 522: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/522-power-talk-friday-peter-lang-cpa-taxes-and-the-coronavirus-relief-package-explained Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Peter Lang joins LuAnn on today’s show to discuss accounting that is specific to design firms. Peter is a CPA that works exclusively with interior designers, and he will be covering the nuances of the industry. He is also a co-author of LuAnn’s latest book, A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts. If you’re a business owner and concerned about how this current COVID-19 pandemic will impact your taxes, you will not want to miss this episode! Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew. He enjoys running and golfing outside of work. Show Highlights: The IRS expects you to file your 2019 income tax return by April 15th, or apply for an extension. If you have a Federal or state tax payment that is due, they expect that by the April 15th deadline. Technically you are responsible for Q1 2020 estimated payments by April 15th, as well. HOWEVER, due to the pandemic, the IRS has reset all of the April 15th deadlines to July 15th for the 2019 filing year. This gives everyone an additional 90 days to get all of your information to them. The IRS has NOT changed the Q2 2020 estimated payments deadline of June 15th, so this WILL still be due. Peter addresses which deadline might be better to consider, and why; HSA’s, and sales tax. Peter and LuAnn discuss the stimulus package, how much we might expect to receive, and when it will be sent. What you need to know if you’re receiving unemployment compensation and receive a stimulus payment. Your business may be eligible for relief in the form of a relaxed-rules small business loan. Listen for details! Payroll tax credits, deferments, and managing your cash flow. Things you can do now to be ready in the event another disaster strikes: Get your books in order. Make sure you understand your numbers. Set aside cash for quarterly tax payments. Don’t mingle sales tax collected from customers with your operating cash. Build a reserve of three months fixed operating expenses in a savings account. LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Connect with Peter! Peter’s Website Book Mentioned: A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere! Article FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma studio: A Well Designed Business Kravet Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Sponsors You’ll Be Learning More About in the Future: Jaipur Monogram Shows Mentioned: Michele Williams - Certified Profit First Coach #180 Peter Lang previous episodes: #349, #464 #519 finances at Window Works   Fri, 27 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained full 522 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Peter Lang joins LuAnn on today’s show to discuss accounting that is specific to design firms. Peter is a CPA that works exclusively with interior designers, and he will be covering the... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Peter Lang joins LuAnn on today’s show to discuss accounting that is specific to design firms. Peter is a CPA that works exclusively with interior designers, and he will be covering the nuances of the industry. He is also a co-author of LuAnn’s latest book, A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts. If you’re a business owner and concerned about how this current COVID-19 pandemic will impact your taxes, you will not want to miss this episode! Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew. He enjoys running and golfing outside of work. Show Highlights: The IRS expects you to file your 2019 income tax return by April 15th, or apply for an extension. If you have a Federal or state tax payment that is due, they expect that by the April 15th deadline. Technically you are responsible for Q1 2020 estimated payments by April 15th, as well. HOWEVER, due to the pandemic, the IRS has reset all of the April 15th deadlines to July 15th for the 2019 filing year. This gives everyone an additional 90 days to get all of your information to them. The IRS has NOT changed the Q2 2020 estimated payments deadline of June 15th, so this WILL still be due. Peter addresses which deadline might be better to consider, and why; HSA’s, and sales tax. Peter and LuAnn discuss the stimulus package, how much we might expect to receive, and when it will be sent. What you need to know if you’re receiving unemployment compensation and receive a stimulus payment. Your business may be eligible for relief in the form of a relaxed-rules small business loan. Listen for details! Payroll tax credits, deferments, and managing your cash flow. Things you can do now to be ready in the event another disaster strikes: Get your books in order. Make sure you understand your numbers. Set aside cash for quarterly tax payments. Don’t mingle sales tax collected from customers with your operating cash. Build a reserve of three months fixed operating expenses in a savings account. LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19hours Connect with Peter! Peter’s Website Book Mentioned: A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere! Article FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma studio: A Well Designed Business Kravet Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Sponsors You’ll Be Learning More About in the Future: Jaipur Monogram Shows Mentioned: Michele Williams - Certified Profit First Coach #180 Peter Lang previous episodes: #349, #464 #519 finances at Window Works   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Peter Lang joins LuAnn on today’s show to discuss accounting that is specific to design firms. Peter is a CPA that works exclusively with interior designers, and he will be covering the nuances of the industry. He is also a co-author of LuAnn’s latest book, A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts.

If you’re a business owner and concerned about how this current COVID-19 pandemic will impact your taxes, you will not want to miss this episode!

Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.  

Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew. He enjoys running and golfing outside of work.

Show Highlights:

  • The IRS expects you to file your 2019 income tax return by April 15th, or apply for an extension.
  • If you have a Federal or state tax payment that is due, they expect that by the April 15th deadline.
  • Technically you are responsible for Q1 2020 estimated payments by April 15th, as well.
  • HOWEVER, due to the pandemic, the IRS has reset all of the April 15th deadlines to July 15th for the 2019 filing year.
  • This gives everyone an additional 90 days to get all of your information to them.
  • The IRS has NOT changed the Q2 2020 estimated payments deadline of June 15th, so this WILL still be due.
  • Peter addresses which deadline might be better to consider, and why; HSA’s, and sales tax.
  • Peter and LuAnn discuss the stimulus package, how much we might expect to receive, and when it will be sent.
  • What you need to know if you’re receiving unemployment compensation and receive a stimulus payment.
  • Your business may be eligible for relief in the form of a relaxed-rules small business loan. Listen for details!
  • Payroll tax credits, deferments, and managing your cash flow.
  • Things you can do now to be ready in the event another disaster strikes:
  • Get your books in order.
  • Make sure you understand your numbers.
  • Set aside cash for quarterly tax payments.
  • Don’t mingle sales tax collected from customers with your operating cash.
  • Build a reserve of three months fixed operating expenses in a savings account.

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:

  • Event: 19hours
  • Hosted by: Mydoma Studio
  • Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th
  • This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT!
  • Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST.
  • It will be recorded for later viewing.
  • This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market.
  • DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers!
  • To Sign Up, Go to 19hours

Connect with Peter!

Peter’s Website

Book Mentioned:

A Well-Designed Business: The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends

Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.comHere!

Article

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma studio: A Well Designed Business

Kravet

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

Sponsors You’ll Be Learning More About in the Future:

Jaipur

Monogram

Shows Mentioned:

Michele Williams - Certified Profit First Coach #180

Peter Lang previous episodes: #349, #464

#519 finances at Window Works

 

]]> 4180 no 521: Gabriela Gargano: Thinking Like an Entrepreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/521-gabriela-gargano-thinking-like-an-entrepreneur Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business! Gabriela Gargano joins LuAnn in this episode to caution us as entrepreneurs about being careful not to apply reasons and rationale to decisions that we are facing because we are reluctant to take the risk. Gaby also shares some very specific strategies that she is employing as the CEO of her design firm in light of the Corona Virus, which you will likely find very smart and useful! You are going to love these ideas! After graduating from college with degrees in Art History, Hispanic Studies, and Business Economics, Gaby spent more than a decade at Goldman Sachs, as a sales trader and relationship manager. She simultaneously grew her passion for interior design through real estate investing, renovation, and staging of her properties in Manhattan. In 2016, she decided to leave finance and establish Grisoro Designs, a full-service interior design firm located in New York City. Gaby’s style blends clean lines with rich textures and eclectic pieces, referencing art, and vintage design. The team's process is anchored in a deep understanding of each client's design goals, functional needs, and lifestyle. By implementing a transparent process, clear communication, and active project and budget management, they can provide a seamless experience, resulting in a beautiful and functional space that truly feels like home.  Grisoro Designs has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, and several other publications. Services offered include interior design, full-scale renovations, project management, budget management, art curation, and real estate advisory.  SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19 Hours Show Highlights: Gaby was at Goldman Sachs during the 2008 recession. Decide what you want your business to look like. The indicators that Gaby used to evaluate when it was time to grow: Assessing her past, current, and projected pipeline. She made sure that she was attracting the type of clients that will take her into the future. She recognized that she was so fatigued that she was jeopardizing her ability to deliver her creative best to her clients. She realized that she and the employees she had on board were consistently being pushed to their limits, and this was leaving a lot of room for errors. Working from home is fine, but getting space brings an elevated sense in having your own studio. You’re able to have your full-time employees there, bring on an intern, and have your vendors and clients meet you there. Remember that this Covid-19 crisis isn’t forever. Take this time to learn to work better remotely. Find more ways to be collaborative and keep the lines of communication open. As entrepreneurs, we have to figure out a way to work through this. Focus on business planning in greater detail, such as business expenses, hurdles, goals, targets, etc. Most importantly, do not delay in responding and looking at what changes you need to make in order to protect your cash flow. Make rational, unemotional decisions when you are calm. Make decisions based on thoughtful evaluation with your CFO or whoever helps you with your finances in your business. Commit to taking the actions that you make a decision on. This planning and effort will help to provide you with a peace of mind, which is very important subconsciously for your team. When you’re calm and positive, your team will feel that. Don’t overreact. But don’t NOT act! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Gaby! Design Firm: Grisoro Designs Principal: Gabriela Gargano Gaby’s Instagram Gaby’s Website Do YOU Need Help with Your Past, Current, or Projected Pipeline? Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting Kim Merlitti:  KMM Consulting Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet For 10% off any Kravet Wallpaper, Fabric, or Trim Enter at Checkout This Promo Code: awdb10 Kirsch Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Mentioned Episodes #519   Tue, 24 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Gabriela Gargano: Thinking Like an Entrepreneur full 521 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business! Gabriela Gargano joins LuAnn in this episode to caution us as entrepreneurs about being careful not to apply reasons and rationale to decisions that we are facing because we are reluctant to take... Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business! Gabriela Gargano joins LuAnn in this episode to caution us as entrepreneurs about being careful not to apply reasons and rationale to decisions that we are facing because we are reluctant to take the risk. Gaby also shares some very specific strategies that she is employing as the CEO of her design firm in light of the Corona Virus, which you will likely find very smart and useful! You are going to love these ideas! After graduating from college with degrees in Art History, Hispanic Studies, and Business Economics, Gaby spent more than a decade at Goldman Sachs, as a sales trader and relationship manager. She simultaneously grew her passion for interior design through real estate investing, renovation, and staging of her properties in Manhattan. In 2016, she decided to leave finance and establish Grisoro Designs, a full-service interior design firm located in New York City. Gaby’s style blends clean lines with rich textures and eclectic pieces, referencing art, and vintage design. The team's process is anchored in a deep understanding of each client's design goals, functional needs, and lifestyle. By implementing a transparent process, clear communication, and active project and budget management, they can provide a seamless experience, resulting in a beautiful and functional space that truly feels like home.  Grisoro Designs has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, and several other publications. Services offered include interior design, full-scale renovations, project management, budget management, art curation, and real estate advisory.  SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Event: 19hours Hosted by: Mydoma Studio Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT! Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST. It will be recorded for later viewing. This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market. DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers! To Sign Up, Go to 19 Hours Show Highlights: Gaby was at Goldman Sachs during the 2008 recession. Decide what you want your business to look like. The indicators that Gaby used to evaluate when it was time to grow: Assessing her past, current, and projected pipeline. She made sure that she was attracting the type of clients that will take her into the future. She recognized that she was so fatigued that she was jeopardizing her ability to deliver her creative best to her clients. She realized that she and the employees she had on board were consistently being pushed to their limits, and this was leaving a lot of room for errors. Working from home is fine, but getting space brings an elevated sense in having your own studio. You’re able to have your full-time employees there, bring on an intern, and have your vendors and clients meet you there. Remember that this Covid-19 crisis isn’t forever. Take this time to learn to work better remotely. Find more ways to be collaborative and keep the lines of communication open. As entrepreneurs, we have to figure out a way to work through this. Focus on business planning in greater detail, such as business expenses, hurdles, goals, targets, etc. Most importantly, do not delay in responding and looking at what changes you need to make in order to protect your cash flow. Make rational, unemotional decisions when you are calm. Make decisions based on thoughtful evaluation with your CFO or whoever helps you with your finances in your business. Commit to taking the actions that you make a decision on. This planning and effort will help to provide you with a peace of mind, which is very important subconsciously for your team. When you’re calm and positive, your team will feel that. Don’t overreact. But don’t NOT act! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Gaby! Design Firm: Grisoro Designs Principal: Gabriela Gargano Gaby’s Instagram Gaby’s Website Do YOU Need Help with Your Past, Current, or Projected Pipeline? Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting Kim Merlitti:  KMM Consulting Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Kravet For 10% off any Kravet Wallpaper, Fabric, or Trim Enter at Checkout This Promo Code: awdb10 Kirsch Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Mentioned Episodes #519   Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business! Gabriela Gargano joins LuAnn in this episode to caution us as entrepreneurs about being careful not to apply reasons and rationale to decisions that we are facing because we are reluctant to take the risk.

Gaby also shares some very specific strategies that she is employing as the CEO of her design firm in light of the Corona Virus, which you will likely find very smart and useful! You are going to love these ideas!

After graduating from college with degrees in Art History, Hispanic Studies, and Business Economics, Gaby spent more than a decade at Goldman Sachs, as a sales trader and relationship manager. She simultaneously grew her passion for interior design through real estate investing, renovation, and staging of her properties in Manhattan.

In 2016, she decided to leave finance and establish Grisoro Designs, a full-service interior design firm located in New York City. Gaby’s style blends clean lines with rich textures and eclectic pieces, referencing art, and vintage design. The team's process is anchored in a deep understanding of each client's design goals, functional needs, and lifestyle.

By implementing a transparent process, clear communication, and active project and budget management, they can provide a seamless experience, resulting in a beautiful and functional space that truly feels like home. 

Grisoro Designs has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, and several other publications. Services offered include interior design, full-scale renovations, project management, budget management, art curation, and real estate advisory. 

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:

  • Event: 19hours
  • Hosted by: Mydoma Studio
  • Monday, April 6th - Thursday, April 9th
  • This is a FREE VIRTUAL EVENT!
  • Presentations Each Day at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm EST.
  • It will be recorded for later viewing.
  • This Is The Industry’s Answer to Covid-19 and Contains Much of the Content That Was Planned for HP Market.
  • DON’T MISS the Solo Presentations by Some of the Industry’s Top Business Leaders and Panel Discussions with Some of the Industry’s Top Designers!
  • To Sign Up, Go to 19 Hours

Show Highlights:

  • Gaby was at Goldman Sachs during the 2008 recession.
  • Decide what you want your business to look like.
  • The indicators that Gaby used to evaluate when it was time to grow:
  • Assessing her past, current, and projected pipeline. She made sure that she was attracting the type of clients that will take her into the future.
  • She recognized that she was so fatigued that she was jeopardizing her ability to deliver her creative best to her clients.
  • She realized that she and the employees she had on board were consistently being pushed to their limits, and this was leaving a lot of room for errors.
  • Working from home is fine, but getting space brings an elevated sense in having your own studio. You’re able to have your full-time employees there, bring on an intern, and have your vendors and clients meet you there.
  • Remember that this Covid-19 crisis isn’t forever.
  • Take this time to learn to work better remotely.
  • Find more ways to be collaborative and keep the lines of communication open.
  • As entrepreneurs, we have to figure out a way to work through this.
  • Focus on business planning in greater detail, such as business expenses, hurdles, goals, targets, etc.
  • Most importantly, do not delay in responding and looking at what changes you need to make in order to protect your cash flow.
  • Make rational, unemotional decisions when you are calm. Make decisions based on thoughtful evaluation with your CFO or whoever helps you with your finances in your business.
  • Commit to taking the actions that you make a decision on.
  • This planning and effort will help to provide you with a peace of mind, which is very important subconsciously for your team. When you’re calm and positive, your team will feel that.
  • Don’t overreact. But don’t NOT act!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Connect with Gaby!

Design Firm: Grisoro Designs

Principal: Gabriela Gargano

Gaby’s Instagram

Gaby’s Website

Do YOU Need Help with Your Past, Current, or Projected Pipeline?

Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Kim Merlitti:  KMM Consulting

Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet

For 10% off any Kravet Wallpaper, Fabric, or Trim Enter at Checkout This Promo Code: awdb10

Kirsch

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Mentioned Episodes

#519

 

]]> 4376 no 520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/520-power-talk-friday-sandra-funk-the-interior-design-standard-is-here Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn chats with Sandra Funk about Sandra’s amazing new program for the interior design community. Her program is called “The Interior Design Standard”. Just wait until you hear about it, you’re going to LOVE this! Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Show Highlights: Sandra’s program is targeted towards interior designers to guide them on the path of business success. The Interior Design Standard is a program comprised of Sandra’s templates, systems, and processes, delivered in a digital format to help designers run a more efficient, joy-filled, and profitable business. The program includes: Sandra’s design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments. House of Funk’s design agreement, that both clients and designers love. The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press. Four designers beta-tested the program for three months and gave the program rave reviews. LuAnn and Sandra discuss the lessons learned from beta-testing. There’s a lack of standards in the industry. Depending on your situation, the time of implementation will vary but is expected to take approximately 3 months. Sandra asks: Do you want to spend another year wondering if you should edit your terms, update your fees, pass along your trade discount or make a profit on furnishings, or manage client expectations better? The Interior Design Standard purchase is a lifetime membership and 100% guaranteed, but you have to fully implement from start to finish. Sandra’s program costs $3,989, plus any applicable tax. This program streamlines your methods of business management and execution! Sandra wants to see the industry become more professional and profitable. The more profitable the designer the better work you can all do as an industry, and the better high-quality customer service you can offer to your clients. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Sandra! House Of Funk Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry. In April, she’s launching the Interior Design Standard - a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business. Click here to take her FREE Demo Module to get a taste of what’s to come: Interior Design Standard April 8th: Registration opens Note: If designers register before April 22nd, they receive VIP access which grants them 3 group Zoom calls with Sandra. April 22nd: VIP Access closes and general enrollment begins May 5th: Enrollment closes at 11:59 PM May 6th: Module 1 is released and the program begins FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!   Fri, 20 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! full 520 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn chats with Sandra Funk about Sandra’s amazing new program for the interior design community. Her program is called “The Interior Design Standard”. Just wait... Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn chats with Sandra Funk about Sandra’s amazing new program for the interior design community. Her program is called “The Interior Design Standard”. Just wait until you hear about it, you’re going to LOVE this! Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us. This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style. House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition. Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business. Show Highlights: Sandra’s program is targeted towards interior designers to guide them on the path of business success. The Interior Design Standard is a program comprised of Sandra’s templates, systems, and processes, delivered in a digital format to help designers run a more efficient, joy-filled, and profitable business. The program includes: Sandra’s design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments. House of Funk’s design agreement, that both clients and designers love. The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press. Four designers beta-tested the program for three months and gave the program rave reviews. LuAnn and Sandra discuss the lessons learned from beta-testing. There’s a lack of standards in the industry. Depending on your situation, the time of implementation will vary but is expected to take approximately 3 months. Sandra asks: Do you want to spend another year wondering if you should edit your terms, update your fees, pass along your trade discount or make a profit on furnishings, or manage client expectations better? The Interior Design Standard purchase is a lifetime membership and 100% guaranteed, but you have to fully implement from start to finish. Sandra’s program costs $3,989, plus any applicable tax. This program streamlines your methods of business management and execution! Sandra wants to see the industry become more professional and profitable. The more profitable the designer the better work you can all do as an industry, and the better high-quality customer service you can offer to your clients. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Sandra! House Of Funk Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry. In April, she’s launching the Interior Design Standard - a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business. Click here to take her FREE Demo Module to get a taste of what’s to come: Interior Design Standard April 8th: Registration opens Note: If designers register before April 22nd, they receive VIP access which grants them 3 group Zoom calls with Sandra. April 22nd: VIP Access closes and general enrollment begins May 5th: Enrollment closes at 11:59 PM May 6th: Module 1 is released and the program begins FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized! My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!   Welcome to this episode of A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn chats with Sandra Funk about Sandra’s amazing new program for the interior design community.

Her program is called “The Interior Design Standard”. Just wait until you hear about it, you’re going to LOVE this!

Sandra Funk is the CEO and Principal Designer of House of Funk, a greater New York area design firm working wherever great clients need us.

This is interior design with a soul and a sense of place; reflecting your desires, personality, and style.

House of Funk creates thoughtful homes with an emphasis on clean lines and soulful touches, all rooted in tradition.

Sandra is an Accredited Professional for the Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Sandra’s award-winning design work has been featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Aspire Design & Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design.

With almost two decades in the interior design industry, Sandra is launching the Interior Design Standard in the spring of 2020 – a template for designers to utilize her streamlined processes and business structure to bring joy and profit to their own design business.

Show Highlights:

  • Sandra’s program is targeted towards interior designers to guide them on the path of business success.
  • The Interior Design Standard is a program comprised of Sandra’s templates, systems, and processes, delivered in a digital format to help designers run a more efficient, joy-filled, and profitable business.
  • The program includes:
  • Sandra’s design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments.
  • House of Funk’s design agreement, that both clients and designers love.
  • The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press.
  • Four designers beta-tested the program for three months and gave the program rave reviews.
  • LuAnn and Sandra discuss the lessons learned from beta-testing.
  • There’s a lack of standards in the industry.
  • Depending on your situation, the time of implementation will vary but is expected to take approximately 3 months.
  • Sandra asks: Do you want to spend another year wondering if you should edit your terms, update your fees, pass along your trade discount or make a profit on furnishings, or manage client expectations better?
  • The Interior Design Standard purchase is a lifetime membership and 100% guaranteed, but you have to fully implement from start to finish.
  • Sandra’s program costs $3,989, plus any applicable tax.
  • This program streamlines your methods of business management and execution!
  • Sandra wants to see the industry become more professional and profitable. The more profitable the designer the better work you can all do as an industry, and the better high-quality customer service you can offer to your clients.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Connect with Sandra!

House Of Funk

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry. In April, she’s launching the Interior Design Standard - a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business. Click here to take her FREE Demo Module to get a taste of what’s to come: Interior Design Standard

April 8th: Registration opens

Note: If designers register before April 22nd, they receive VIP access which grants them 3 group Zoom calls with Sandra.

April 22nd: VIP Access closes and general enrollment begins

May 5th: Enrollment closes at 11:59 PM

May 6th: Module 1 is released and the program begins

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Podcast Sponsor:

Article

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

 

]]> 4813 no 519: What Would Lu Do? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/519-what-would-lu-do Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn has been considering adding a Wednesday show answering straight-up questions that you ask her via email and SM, and with everything happening in the world right now, she thought this was the perfect time to debut “What Would Lu Do?” On today’s episode, she will be discussing doing business through a crisis. In the 40 years, she’s been in business, she has had to weather all kinds of crises, such as recessions, acts of terrorism, and viral pandemic scares. Listen in to learn how you can be smart, strategic, and patient to help you get your business to the other side of this! Be sure to join her next Wednesday as she shares some additional tips to help you through this difficult time. Show Highlights: This is critical: 1) Don’t overreact. 2) Don’t NOT act. Cash flow is KING. Everything in your business will depend on your cash flow. The first-level action plan: Focus on sales. Monitor cash flow and keep your vendors paid. Review all money owed to you and collect any outstanding balances. Go through your expenses with a fine-toothed comb. Owner’s pay cuts as loans to the company. Other ideas for consideration: Consider working remotely. Work on projects that you have been ignoring, especially if they generate revenue. Keep a routine. Find your mentors, your peers, set up phone calls, zoom meetings, brainstorm ideas on how to stay productive, how to maintain your clients and how to build your pipeline for when this is a bad nightmare for all of us down the road. LuAnn’s favorite tip from an emergency virtual meeting with her colleagues at Exciting Windows is from Steve Wishnow, who said, “Get Smart - Get Market Share.” He urged the allocation of money to marketing during this time and to not make the mistake of curbing this expense. Don’t go into debt, do everything with common sense. But now is the time to let people know you are here, you will be here and you can be depended on. Find a way to stay positive through this! Links: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE Vision Carla Aston Tips for Building Future Success When Your Interior Design Business is Slow Episode Mentioned: episode #242 Carla Aston   Tue, 17 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 What Would Lu Do? full 519 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn has been considering adding a Wednesday show answering straight-up questions that you ask her via email and SM, and with everything happening in the world right now, she thought this was the perfect time to... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn has been considering adding a Wednesday show answering straight-up questions that you ask her via email and SM, and with everything happening in the world right now, she thought this was the perfect time to debut “What Would Lu Do?” On today’s episode, she will be discussing doing business through a crisis. In the 40 years, she’s been in business, she has had to weather all kinds of crises, such as recessions, acts of terrorism, and viral pandemic scares. Listen in to learn how you can be smart, strategic, and patient to help you get your business to the other side of this! Be sure to join her next Wednesday as she shares some additional tips to help you through this difficult time. Show Highlights: This is critical: 1) Don’t overreact. 2) Don’t NOT act. Cash flow is KING. Everything in your business will depend on your cash flow. The first-level action plan: Focus on sales. Monitor cash flow and keep your vendors paid. Review all money owed to you and collect any outstanding balances. Go through your expenses with a fine-toothed comb. Owner’s pay cuts as loans to the company. Other ideas for consideration: Consider working remotely. Work on projects that you have been ignoring, especially if they generate revenue. Keep a routine. Find your mentors, your peers, set up phone calls, zoom meetings, brainstorm ideas on how to stay productive, how to maintain your clients and how to build your pipeline for when this is a bad nightmare for all of us down the road. LuAnn’s favorite tip from an emergency virtual meeting with her colleagues at Exciting Windows is from Steve Wishnow, who said, “Get Smart - Get Market Share.” He urged the allocation of money to marketing during this time and to not make the mistake of curbing this expense. Don’t go into debt, do everything with common sense. But now is the time to let people know you are here, you will be here and you can be depended on. Find a way to stay positive through this! Links: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE Vision Carla Aston Tips for Building Future Success When Your Interior Design Business is Slow Episode Mentioned: episode #242 Carla Aston   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn has been considering adding a Wednesday show answering straight-up questions that you ask her via email and SM, and with everything happening in the world right now, she thought this was the perfect time to debut “What Would Lu Do?”

On today’s episode, she will be discussing doing business through a crisis. In the 40 years, she’s been in business, she has had to weather all kinds of crises, such as recessions, acts of terrorism, and viral pandemic scares.

Listen in to learn how you can be smart, strategic, and patient to help you get your business to the other side of this!

Be sure to join her next Wednesday as she shares some additional tips to help you through this difficult time.

Show Highlights:

  • This is critical: 1) Don’t overreact. 2) Don’t NOT act.
  • Cash flow is KING. Everything in your business will depend on your cash flow.
  • The first-level action plan:
  • Focus on sales.
  • Monitor cash flow and keep your vendors paid.
  • Review all money owed to you and collect any outstanding balances.
  • Go through your expenses with a fine-toothed comb.
  • Owner’s pay cuts as loans to the company.
  • Other ideas for consideration:
  • Consider working remotely.
  • Work on projects that you have been ignoring, especially if they generate revenue.
  • Keep a routine.
  • Find your mentors, your peers, set up phone calls, zoom meetings, brainstorm ideas on how to stay productive, how to maintain your clients and how to build your pipeline for when this is a bad nightmare for all of us down the road.
  • LuAnn’s favorite tip from an emergency virtual meeting with her colleagues at Exciting Windows is from Steve Wishnow, who said, “Get Smart - Get Market Share.” He urged the allocation of money to marketing during this time and to not make the mistake of curbing this expense. Don’t go into debt, do everything with common sense. But now is the time to let people know you are here, you will be here and you can be depended on.
  • Find a way to stay positive through this!

Links:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

WCAA

Exciting Windows

IWCE Vision

Carla Aston

Tips for Building Future Success When Your Interior Design Business is Slow

Episode Mentioned:

episode #242 Carla Aston

 

]]> 2729 no 518: Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/518-communication-between-the-designer-and-the-window-treatment-professional Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, cover effective communication between the interior designer and the workroom to ensure a successful project. One of the private Facebook groups that Vita belongs to is the “Soft Furnishings & Upholstery” group. Prior to this show, she posted a query asking for their stories on the topic of communication, both good and bad, that members’ workrooms have had with their designers. She received some really good feedback on what worked and what didn’t work, and she and LuAnn will be sharing their collective wisdom with you today. Listen in to take advantage of what others have learned from their experiences, and remember the most important thing of all: communication is key with everything! Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. Show Highlights: Vita explains the difference between the detailed estimate and the top-line budget estimate and discusses the proper information that is required from the designer. The right questions contribute to a successful site visit to take measurements and discuss project specifics. It is important for the designer to be present at this visit. If you’re a designer or a workroom new to window treatments, make sure meetings happen when all of the important parties are there. Considerations when choosing types of fabric. You must take ownership and read the detailed estimate, question it, and correct if needed. Some workrooms require the designer to sign it. Vita shares her recommendations for managing outstanding issues on the detailed proposal. LuAnn offers further suggestions on ironing out all the details. Additional communication tips: Be clear on who is responsible for what. Be clear on terms. Use only one way of communicating, preferably email. Be sure to follow up a verbal conversation with a summary email. Thank your workroom! And keep them in the loop. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE Vision My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Vitalia Inc. Grand Opening! All are invited to join us for Vita's grand opening! June 16th, 4-7pm LuAnn is excited to be there and all are invited to join! RSVP at Vitalia Inc Events To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Mentioned Shows: Links to previous WTF episodes #462, #471 Sandra Funk #02, 145   Fri, 13 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional full 518 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, cover effective communication between the interior designer and the workroom to ensure a... Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, cover effective communication between the interior designer and the workroom to ensure a successful project. One of the private Facebook groups that Vita belongs to is the “Soft Furnishings & Upholstery” group. Prior to this show, she posted a query asking for their stories on the topic of communication, both good and bad, that members’ workrooms have had with their designers. She received some really good feedback on what worked and what didn’t work, and she and LuAnn will be sharing their collective wisdom with you today. Listen in to take advantage of what others have learned from their experiences, and remember the most important thing of all: communication is key with everything! Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. Show Highlights: Vita explains the difference between the detailed estimate and the top-line budget estimate and discusses the proper information that is required from the designer. The right questions contribute to a successful site visit to take measurements and discuss project specifics. It is important for the designer to be present at this visit. If you’re a designer or a workroom new to window treatments, make sure meetings happen when all of the important parties are there. Considerations when choosing types of fabric. You must take ownership and read the detailed estimate, question it, and correct if needed. Some workrooms require the designer to sign it. Vita shares her recommendations for managing outstanding issues on the detailed proposal. LuAnn offers further suggestions on ironing out all the details. Additional communication tips: Be clear on who is responsible for what. Be clear on terms. Use only one way of communicating, preferably email. Be sure to follow up a verbal conversation with a summary email. Thank your workroom! And keep them in the loop. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live WCAA Exciting Windows IWCE Vision My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Vitalia Inc. Grand Opening! All are invited to join us for Vita's grand opening! June 16th, 4-7pm LuAnn is excited to be there and all are invited to join! RSVP at Vitalia Inc Events To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Mentioned Shows: Links to previous WTF episodes #462, #471 Sandra Funk #02, 145   Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, cover effective communication between the interior designer and the workroom to ensure a successful project.

One of the private Facebook groups that Vita belongs to is the “Soft Furnishings & Upholstery” group. Prior to this show, she posted a query asking for their stories on the topic of communication, both good and bad, that members’ workrooms have had with their designers.

She received some really good feedback on what worked and what didn’t work, and she and LuAnn will be sharing their collective wisdom with you today.

Listen in to take advantage of what others have learned from their experiences, and remember the most important thing of all: communication is key with everything!

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. 

Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.

Show Highlights:

  • Vita explains the difference between the detailed estimate and the top-line budget estimate and discusses the proper information that is required from the designer.
  • The right questions contribute to a successful site visit to take measurements and discuss project specifics. It is important for the designer to be present at this visit.
  • If you’re a designer or a workroom new to window treatments, make sure meetings happen when all of the important parties are there.
  • Considerations when choosing types of fabric.
  • You must take ownership and read the detailed estimate, question it, and correct if needed. Some workrooms require the designer to sign it.
  • Vita shares her recommendations for managing outstanding issues on the detailed proposal.
  • LuAnn offers further suggestions on ironing out all the details.
  • Additional communication tips:
  1. Be clear on who is responsible for what.
  2. Be clear on terms.
  3. Use only one way of communicating, preferably email. Be sure to follow up a verbal conversation with a summary email.
  4. Thank your workroom! And keep them in the loop.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

WCAA

Exciting Windows

IWCE Vision

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Vitalia Inc. Grand Opening!

All are invited to join us for Vita's grand opening!

June 16th, 4-7pm

LuAnn is excited to be there and all are invited to join!

RSVP at Vitalia Inc Events

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc

To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments

Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Mentioned Shows:

Links to previous WTF episodes #462, #471

Sandra Funk #02, 145

 

]]> 3979 no 517: Pimlico Interiors: Navigating the Hard Conversations http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/517-pimlico-interiors-navigating-the-hard-conversations Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Melissa Lindsay, Co-Owner of Pimlico Interiors, located in Westport, CT. She will be sharing some of the methods and tactics that she and her partner, Jill Kakaletris, use when dealing with difficult conversations and difficult clients. As #seasoned designers, Melissa and Jill have had their share of difficult conversations with clients and together they have developed a personal philosophy for handling these as well as some actual tips to help you navigate them, too. Whether you are crafting an email or having a hard person-to-person discussion, there are some strategies here that you can most certainly find useful! Melissa brings 20 years of luxury residential design experience and award-winning interiors to the firm. Named at home Magazine’s A-list award winner multiple years over, she has been lauded by industry professionals from Celerie Kemble to Bunny Williams. Show Highlights: Be truthful with kindness and grace! Listen more than talk. This is the only way to truly know what the obstacle is for the client. And if you are reading an email from a client--- read it closely and consider only what it says; don’t make up stuff in your head. Keep to your talking points and be clear and focused. Keep the conversation respectful and unemotional. Know your value and be confident in it. Have a value statement prepared that you are ready to say when you are in a situation that is getting tricky. Keep re-stating your points, rephrasing if necessary, and don’t get dragged into details that are irrelevant. This distracts from the solution. Keep a cache of pre-written emails that you can go to in the tough moments. You can tweak as needed for the present client. This helps in both diffusing your emotion of the current situation as well as saving not having to start from scratch over and over. Stop talking once you have made your points. By continuing to talk it opens the conversation to points that are not core to the current conflict. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Connect with Melissa! Pimlico Interiors Interior Design Standard East End Interiors Trade Mydoma Studio: Well Designed Business Kirsch Stamford Waterside Design District March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the Events Tab. March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE  / March 25th to the 27th Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision. April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020. High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday, April 25th, she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design-Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects. On Sunday, April 26th, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team atKravet Inc. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us. I THINK THIS IS THE PART IN QUESTION Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details.   Tue, 10 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000 Pimlico Interiors: Navigating the Hard Conversations full 517 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Melissa Lindsay, Co-Owner of Pimlico Interiors, located in Westport, CT. She will be sharing some of the methods and tactics that she and her partner, Jill Kakaletris, use when dealing with... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Melissa Lindsay, Co-Owner of Pimlico Interiors, located in Westport, CT. She will be sharing some of the methods and tactics that she and her partner, Jill Kakaletris, use when dealing with difficult conversations and difficult clients. As #seasoned designers, Melissa and Jill have had their share of difficult conversations with clients and together they have developed a personal philosophy for handling these as well as some actual tips to help you navigate them, too. Whether you are crafting an email or having a hard person-to-person discussion, there are some strategies here that you can most certainly find useful! Melissa brings 20 years of luxury residential design experience and award-winning interiors to the firm. Named at home Magazine’s A-list award winner multiple years over, she has been lauded by industry professionals from Celerie Kemble to Bunny Williams. Show Highlights: Be truthful with kindness and grace! Listen more than talk. This is the only way to truly know what the obstacle is for the client. And if you are reading an email from a client--- read it closely and consider only what it says; don’t make up stuff in your head. Keep to your talking points and be clear and focused. Keep the conversation respectful and unemotional. Know your value and be confident in it. Have a value statement prepared that you are ready to say when you are in a situation that is getting tricky. Keep re-stating your points, rephrasing if necessary, and don’t get dragged into details that are irrelevant. This distracts from the solution. Keep a cache of pre-written emails that you can go to in the tough moments. You can tweak as needed for the present client. This helps in both diffusing your emotion of the current situation as well as saving not having to start from scratch over and over. Stop talking once you have made your points. By continuing to talk it opens the conversation to points that are not core to the current conflict. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Connect with Melissa! Pimlico Interiors Interior Design Standard East End Interiors Trade Mydoma Studio: Well Designed Business Kirsch Stamford Waterside Design District March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the Events Tab. March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE  / March 25th to the 27th Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision. April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020. High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday, April 25th, she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design-Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects. On Sunday, April 26th, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team atKravet Inc. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us. I THINK THIS IS THE PART IN QUESTION Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details.   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Melissa Lindsay, Co-Owner of Pimlico Interiors, located in Westport, CT. She will be sharing some of the methods and tactics that she and her partner, Jill Kakaletris, use when dealing with difficult conversations and difficult clients.

As #seasoned designers, Melissa and Jill have had their share of difficult conversations with clients and together they have developed a personal philosophy for handling these as well as some actual tips to help you navigate them, too.

Whether you are crafting an email or having a hard person-to-person discussion, there are some strategies here that you can most certainly find useful!

Melissa brings 20 years of luxury residential design experience and award-winning interiors to the firm. Named at home Magazine’s A-list award winner multiple years over, she has been lauded by industry professionals from Celerie Kemble to Bunny Williams.

Show Highlights:

  • Be truthful with kindness and grace!
  • Listen more than talk. This is the only way to truly know what the obstacle is for the client. And if you are reading an email from a client--- read it closely and consider only what it says; don’t make up stuff in your head.
  • Keep to your talking points and be clear and focused.
  • Keep the conversation respectful and unemotional.
  • Know your value and be confident in it.
  • Have a value statement prepared that you are ready to say when you are in a situation that is getting tricky.
  • Keep re-stating your points, rephrasing if necessary, and don’t get dragged into details that are irrelevant. This distracts from the solution.
  • Keep a cache of pre-written emails that you can go to in the tough moments. You can tweak as needed for the present client. This helps in both diffusing your emotion of the current situation as well as saving not having to start from scratch over and over.
  • Stop talking once you have made your points. By continuing to talk it opens the conversation to points that are not core to the current conflict.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

Connect with Melissa!

Pimlico Interiors

Interior Design Standard

East End Interiors Trade

Mydoma Studio: Well Designed Business

Kirsch

Stamford Waterside Design District

March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the Events Tab.

March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE  / March 25th to the 27th

Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision.

April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020.

High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday, April 25th, she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design-Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects.

On Sunday, April 26th, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team atKravet Inc. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us.

I THINK THIS IS THE PART IN QUESTION

Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details.

 

]]> 4540 no 516: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/516-power-talk-friday-jude-charles-video-storytelling-for-your-brand Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday! On today’s show, Jude Charles joins LuAnn for a chat about videos, and how important they are to our websites. He is here to explain that compelling video is achieved through storytelling, and how we can’t have video just for video’s sake. It must be compelling and it must do the heavy lifting of attracting our ideal client to us. Jude is talented and clearly passionate about helping business owners tap into their unique value by creating the videos that help your clients feel like they already know you.Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring episode!  Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business. Show Highlights: Jude shares how storytelling is pivotal to captivating video. The “why” creates the thread for your story. It’s essential to “cut out the fat” of a 3-minute video to focus on the one core story. A great storyteller is also a great editor. LuAnn draws an interesting parallel between filmmaking and design. The Road Mapping Session: Jude explains his strategy when working with a client. Hearing something said a thousand times is not as convincing as seeing it once for yourself. Clients are searching for silver but are sitting with gold. The gold is the content that they’ve already created, but haven’t yet figured out a way to re-purpose. Jude relates some success stories for a closer look at the process and the results. You are invited to check out some of the work Jude has done on his Website. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Check Out LuAnn’s Second Book! A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Window Coveringsu Connect with Jude! Jude’s Website Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Kravet Other guests mentioned for Shownotes and to tag in SM: Marie Flanigan #89 Pulp Design Studios #176 Arianne Bellezaire # 30 Fred Berns #174 Claire Jefford #237 Nicole Heymer #125     Fri, 06 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand full 516 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday! On today’s show, Jude Charles joins LuAnn for a chat about videos, and how important they are to our websites. He is here to explain that compelling video is achieved through... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday! On today’s show, Jude Charles joins LuAnn for a chat about videos, and how important they are to our websites. He is here to explain that compelling video is achieved through storytelling, and how we can’t have video just for video’s sake. It must be compelling and it must do the heavy lifting of attracting our ideal client to us. Jude is talented and clearly passionate about helping business owners tap into their unique value by creating the videos that help your clients feel like they already know you.Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring episode!  Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business. Show Highlights: Jude shares how storytelling is pivotal to captivating video. The “why” creates the thread for your story. It’s essential to “cut out the fat” of a 3-minute video to focus on the one core story. A great storyteller is also a great editor. LuAnn draws an interesting parallel between filmmaking and design. The Road Mapping Session: Jude explains his strategy when working with a client. Hearing something said a thousand times is not as convincing as seeing it once for yourself. Clients are searching for silver but are sitting with gold. The gold is the content that they’ve already created, but haven’t yet figured out a way to re-purpose. Jude relates some success stories for a closer look at the process and the results. You are invited to check out some of the work Jude has done on his Website. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Check Out LuAnn’s Second Book! A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Window Coveringsu Connect with Jude! Jude’s Website Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor: Kravet Other guests mentioned for Shownotes and to tag in SM: Marie Flanigan #89 Pulp Design Studios #176 Arianne Bellezaire # 30 Fred Berns #174 Claire Jefford #237 Nicole Heymer #125     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday! On today’s show, Jude Charles joins LuAnn for a chat about videos, and how important they are to our websites.

He is here to explain that compelling video is achieved through storytelling, and how we can’t have video just for video’s sake. It must be compelling and it must do the heavy lifting of attracting our ideal client to us.

Jude is talented and clearly passionate about helping business owners tap into their unique value by creating the videos that help your clients feel like they already know you.Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring episode! 

Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.

Show Highlights:

  • Jude shares how storytelling is pivotal to captivating video.
  • The “why” creates the thread for your story.
  • It’s essential to “cut out the fat” of a 3-minute video to focus on the one core story.
  • A great storyteller is also a great editor.
  • LuAnn draws an interesting parallel between filmmaking and design.
  • The Road Mapping Session: Jude explains his strategy when working with a client.
  • Hearing something said a thousand times is not as convincing as seeing it once for yourself.
  • Clients are searching for silver but are sitting with gold. The gold is the content that they’ve already created, but haven’t yet figured out a way to re-purpose.
  • Jude relates some success stories for a closer look at the process and the results.
  • You are invited to check out some of the work Jude has done on his Website.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

Check Out LuAnn’s Second Book!

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Window Coveringsu

Connect with Jude!

Jude’s Website

Thank You to This Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet

Other guests mentioned for Shownotes and to tag in SM:

Marie Flanigan #89

Pulp Design Studios #176

Arianne Bellezaire # 30

Fred Berns #174

Claire Jefford #237

Nicole Heymer #125

 

 

]]> 3630 no 515: Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/515-jaclyn-marie-build-an-authentic-instagram-following Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn chats with Jaclyn Lankiewicz, the woman behind the Instagram handle, Jaclynmari_. She is the principle of Jaclyn Marie Interiors based in Long Island, NY. Her journey into interior design, like many, has not been a direct line. Basically, Jaclyn created an Instagram page that was getting so much attention that it prompted person after person to ask her if she would design their space. As you will hear today, her response was, “I finally said to myself, ok, let me do this”. Jaclyn created an Instagram that has created a design business, and since you already have a design business and want to create more clients through Instagram, perhaps you’ll find her tips to be very helpful. Listen in to see what we can learn about how to attract clients through Instagram! Show Highlights: Keep your feed neutral, bright, and uncluttered. Edit your pictures properly, paying close attention to wood tones. Be strategic about what and where you’re posting. Keep an eye on your nine squares. A picture of herself, a zoomed-in picture of styling, and a larger picture, such as a whole living room or whole kitchen is another tactic that Jaclyn likes to use. Sharing a little of her personal life through Instagram helps people feel connected to her. Another tip that Jaclyn offers is tagging retail vendors because they re-post a lot. Jaclyn likes to share designers on her story (but not on her feed), and details the reasoning behind this. Answering every message and comment from followers is a great way of engaging with them and inspiring trust. How to identify someone whose work you’d like to share, and how to reach out. Understanding your “why” and saying no to those you don’t wish to collaborate with. Posting new content every day shows your followers that you’re reliable. Jaclyn mentions apps that she finds helpful: Videoshop, Unfold, rewardStyle, VSCO, Snapseed, Retouch, and Planoly. Resources:  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Connect with Jaclyn! Jaclyn’s Website Jaclyn’shouzz Jaclyn’s Instagram Wingnut Social East End Interiors Trade Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Article Other guests mentioned from previous episodes: Sara Lynn Brennan #’s: 463, 514 Darla Powell #’s: 203, 330 Kim Merlitti #’s: 361, 442 Sandra Funk #’s: 2, 145   Tue, 03 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following full 515 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn chats with Jaclyn Lankiewicz, the woman behind the Instagram handle, Jaclynmari_. She is the principle of Jaclyn Marie Interiors based in Long Island, NY. Her journey into interior design,... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn chats with Jaclyn Lankiewicz, the woman behind the Instagram handle, Jaclynmari_. She is the principle of Jaclyn Marie Interiors based in Long Island, NY. Her journey into interior design, like many, has not been a direct line. Basically, Jaclyn created an Instagram page that was getting so much attention that it prompted person after person to ask her if she would design their space. As you will hear today, her response was, “I finally said to myself, ok, let me do this”. Jaclyn created an Instagram that has created a design business, and since you already have a design business and want to create more clients through Instagram, perhaps you’ll find her tips to be very helpful. Listen in to see what we can learn about how to attract clients through Instagram! Show Highlights: Keep your feed neutral, bright, and uncluttered. Edit your pictures properly, paying close attention to wood tones. Be strategic about what and where you’re posting. Keep an eye on your nine squares. A picture of herself, a zoomed-in picture of styling, and a larger picture, such as a whole living room or whole kitchen is another tactic that Jaclyn likes to use. Sharing a little of her personal life through Instagram helps people feel connected to her. Another tip that Jaclyn offers is tagging retail vendors because they re-post a lot. Jaclyn likes to share designers on her story (but not on her feed), and details the reasoning behind this. Answering every message and comment from followers is a great way of engaging with them and inspiring trust. How to identify someone whose work you’d like to share, and how to reach out. Understanding your “why” and saying no to those you don’t wish to collaborate with. Posting new content every day shows your followers that you’re reliable. Jaclyn mentions apps that she finds helpful: Videoshop, Unfold, rewardStyle, VSCO, Snapseed, Retouch, and Planoly. Resources:  LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! The Power Talk Friday Tour LuAnn Live Connect with Jaclyn! Jaclyn’s Website Jaclyn’shouzz Jaclyn’s Instagram Wingnut Social East End Interiors Trade Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors: Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now! Kirsch Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Article Other guests mentioned from previous episodes: Sara Lynn Brennan #’s: 463, 514 Darla Powell #’s: 203, 330 Kim Merlitti #’s: 361, 442 Sandra Funk #’s: 2, 145   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn chats with Jaclyn Lankiewicz, the woman behind the Instagram handle, Jaclynmari_.

She is the principle of Jaclyn Marie Interiors based in Long Island, NY.

Her journey into interior design, like many, has not been a direct line. Basically, Jaclyn created an Instagram page that was getting so much attention that it prompted person after person to ask her if she would design their space. As you will hear today, her response was, “I finally said to myself, ok, let me do this”.

Jaclyn created an Instagram that has created a design business, and since you already have a design business and want to create more clients through Instagram, perhaps you’ll find her tips to be very helpful.

Listen in to see what we can learn about how to attract clients through Instagram!

Show Highlights:

  • Keep your feed neutral, bright, and uncluttered.
  • Edit your pictures properly, paying close attention to wood tones.
  • Be strategic about what and where you’re posting.
  • Keep an eye on your nine squares.
  • A picture of herself, a zoomed-in picture of styling, and a larger picture, such as a whole living room or whole kitchen is another tactic that Jaclyn likes to use.
  • Sharing a little of her personal life through Instagram helps people feel connected to her.
  • Another tip that Jaclyn offers is tagging retail vendors because they re-post a lot.
  • Jaclyn likes to share designers on her story (but not on her feed), and details the reasoning behind this.
  • Answering every message and comment from followers is a great way of engaging with them and inspiring trust.
  • How to identify someone whose work you’d like to share, and how to reach out.
  • Understanding your “why” and saying no to those you don’t wish to collaborate with.
  • Posting new content every day shows your followers that you’re reliable.
  • Jaclyn mentions apps that she finds helpful: Videoshop, Unfold, rewardStyle, VSCO, Snapseed, Retouch, and Planoly.

Resources: 

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

The Power Talk Friday Tour

LuAnn Live

Connect with Jaclyn!

Jaclyn’s Website

Jaclyn’shouzz

Jaclyn’s Instagram

Wingnut Social

East End Interiors Trade

Thank You to These Podcast Sponsors:

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

Kirsch

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Article

Other guests mentioned from previous episodes:

Sara Lynn Brennan #’s: 463, 514

Darla Powell #’s: 203, 330

Kim Merlitti #’s: 361, 442

Sandra Funk #’s: 2, 145

 

]]> 3636 no 514: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/514-power-talk-friday-sara-lynn-brennan-investing-in-your-success Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn recounts the way that Sara Lynn Brennan, from Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, went from being a stranger to her, to someone she treasures as a friend, all in less than two years. As an entrepreneur, Sara stands out as one of the most unusual LuAnn has met during her entire business career and her podcast journey. You may have noticed lots of collaboration with Sara over the last few months, and wondered why. There’s a lesson to be learned here, and LuAnn is eager to share it with you! It has to do with investing in your success. One of the ways that LuAnn noticed Sara investing in her success was that she steps outside the box by working on things that may have been intimidating or scary. Another way is that Sara has put in the blood, sweat, and tears. A third way that Sara has brought her business to a place of success so quickly is that she invested her dollar bills. When she made money, she evaluated it, and invested money back into her business. Listen in today to find out what Sara has to share concerning success! Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: Sara shares how listening to LuAnn’s podcast helped her learn to run her business. Aligning yourself with the people you love and respect and want to be like is pivotal in becoming successful, because you are like the five people you spend the most time with. Understanding the value that you bring to the table inspires confidence. It all comes down to what you planned and what you didn’t plan for, and the expectations that you set. You can look back to see where things went wrong. Sara relates her favorite saying and what it means: “The package is the promise of the process.” Sara takes her own discovery calls because she wants to be the first person a client talks to about her process. Whoever is in this with you - a business partner, a coach - can’t stroke your ego; they have to give you the insights and pushback you need. Hard times in life can teach us the greatest lessons. Understanding yourself as a person will help you to find your passion. This sometimes takes therapy or soul-searching. Learn to “edit” your space and business to create a balance that is sustainable. FYI, LuAnn and Sara will be in Charlotte at the IWCE in March! LuAnn details all the other shows that she and Sara will be showing up at in the coming months. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live The Power Talk Friday Tour Interior Design Standard IWCE Vision Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website Sara’s Instagram Process Leads to Profit! Big Thanks to ThisPodcast Sponsor: My Doma Studio Book Mentioned: Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman Other shows mentioned: Michele Williams: 137, 180, 395, 424 Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389 Nicole Heymer: 466, 317, 125  Wendy Woloshchuk: 316 Sandra Funk: 02, 145 Sara Lynn Brennan: 463     Fri, 28 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success full 514 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn recounts the way that Sara Lynn Brennan, from Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, went from being a stranger to her, to someone she treasures as a friend, all in less than two years. As an... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn recounts the way that Sara Lynn Brennan, from Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, went from being a stranger to her, to someone she treasures as a friend, all in less than two years. As an entrepreneur, Sara stands out as one of the most unusual LuAnn has met during her entire business career and her podcast journey. You may have noticed lots of collaboration with Sara over the last few months, and wondered why. There’s a lesson to be learned here, and LuAnn is eager to share it with you! It has to do with investing in your success. One of the ways that LuAnn noticed Sara investing in her success was that she steps outside the box by working on things that may have been intimidating or scary. Another way is that Sara has put in the blood, sweat, and tears. A third way that Sara has brought her business to a place of success so quickly is that she invested her dollar bills. When she made money, she evaluated it, and invested money back into her business. Listen in today to find out what Sara has to share concerning success! Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Show Highlights: Sara shares how listening to LuAnn’s podcast helped her learn to run her business. Aligning yourself with the people you love and respect and want to be like is pivotal in becoming successful, because you are like the five people you spend the most time with. Understanding the value that you bring to the table inspires confidence. It all comes down to what you planned and what you didn’t plan for, and the expectations that you set. You can look back to see where things went wrong. Sara relates her favorite saying and what it means: “The package is the promise of the process.” Sara takes her own discovery calls because she wants to be the first person a client talks to about her process. Whoever is in this with you - a business partner, a coach - can’t stroke your ego; they have to give you the insights and pushback you need. Hard times in life can teach us the greatest lessons. Understanding yourself as a person will help you to find your passion. This sometimes takes therapy or soul-searching. Learn to “edit” your space and business to create a balance that is sustainable. FYI, LuAnn and Sara will be in Charlotte at the IWCE in March! LuAnn details all the other shows that she and Sara will be showing up at in the coming months. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live The Power Talk Friday Tour Interior Design Standard IWCE Vision Connect with Sara! Sara’s Website Sara’s Instagram Process Leads to Profit! Big Thanks to ThisPodcast Sponsor: My Doma Studio Book Mentioned: Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman Other shows mentioned: Michele Williams: 137, 180, 395, 424 Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389 Nicole Heymer: 466, 317, 125  Wendy Woloshchuk: 316 Sandra Funk: 02, 145 Sara Lynn Brennan: 463     Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, LuAnn recounts the way that Sara Lynn Brennan, from Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, went from being a stranger to her, to someone she treasures as a friend, all in less than two years.

As an entrepreneur, Sara stands out as one of the most unusual LuAnn has met during her entire business career and her podcast journey.

You may have noticed lots of collaboration with Sara over the last few months, and wondered why.

There’s a lesson to be learned here, and LuAnn is eager to share it with you! It has to do with investing in your success.

One of the ways that LuAnn noticed Sara investing in her success was that she steps outside the box by working on things that may have been intimidating or scary. Another way is that Sara has put in the blood, sweat, and tears. A third way that Sara has brought her business to a place of success so quickly is that she invested her dollar bills. When she made money, she evaluated it, and invested money back into her business.

Listen in today to find out what Sara has to share concerning success!

Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.

Show Highlights:

  • Sara shares how listening to LuAnn’s podcast helped her learn to run her business.
  • Aligning yourself with the people you love and respect and want to be like is pivotal in becoming successful, because you are like the five people you spend the most time with.
  • Understanding the value that you bring to the table inspires confidence.
  • It all comes down to what you planned and what you didn’t plan for, and the expectations that you set. You can look back to see where things went wrong.
  • Sara relates her favorite saying and what it means: “The package is the promise of the process.”
  • Sara takes her own discovery calls because she wants to be the first person a client talks to about her process.
  • Whoever is in this with you - a business partner, a coach - can’t stroke your ego; they have to give you the insights and pushback you need.
  • Hard times in life can teach us the greatest lessons.
  • Understanding yourself as a person will help you to find your passion. This sometimes takes therapy or soul-searching.
  • Learn to “edit” your space and business to create a balance that is sustainable.
  • FYI, LuAnn and Sara will be in Charlotte at the IWCE in March! LuAnn details all the other shows that she and Sara will be showing up at in the coming months.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Power Talk Friday

LuAnn Live

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Interior Design Standard

IWCE Vision

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Website

Sara’s Instagram

Process Leads to Profit!

Big Thanks to ThisPodcast Sponsor:

My Doma Studio

Book Mentioned:

Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman

Other shows mentioned:

Michele Williams: 137, 180, 395, 424

Nancy Ganzekaufer: 15, 159, 256, 389

Nicole Heymer: 466, 317, 125 

Wendy Woloshchuk: 316

Sandra Funk: 02, 145

Sara Lynn Brennan: 463

 

 

]]> 3510 no 513: Denise Wenacur: The Design Build Business Model http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/513-denise-wenacur-the-design-build-business-model Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC. Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project. If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for. Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation! Show Highlights: Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part. She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well. Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome. Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways. Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction. One big successful project will generate referrals. Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed. Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team. Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client. Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners. Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area. It’s important to create the relationship first. A CFO surprise! When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients. Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live Connect with Denise! Denise’s Website Denise’s Facebook Denise’s Instagram Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5's YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Other episodes mentioned: #380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini #361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti #441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller #181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen #202 Enoch Sears #292 Jana Phipps   Tue, 25 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Denise Wenacur: The Design Build Business Model full 513 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC. Design-build is the hot topic of... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC. Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project. If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for. Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation! Show Highlights: Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part. She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well. Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome. Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways. Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction. One big successful project will generate referrals. Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed. Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team. Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client. Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners. Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area. It’s important to create the relationship first. A CFO surprise! When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients. Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Power Talk Friday LuAnn Live Connect with Denise! Denise’s Website Denise’s Facebook Denise’s Instagram Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5's YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Other episodes mentioned: #380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini #361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti #441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller #181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen #202 Enoch Sears #292 Jana Phipps   Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On this episode, LuAnn sits down for a chat with Denise Wenacur, the principle of DW Design & Décor in Croton on the Hudson, which is a beautiful community just outside of NYC.

Design-build is the hot topic of the day, and you’ll learn the importance of having an interior designer as the point person for the client between the architect, the builder and themselves. She discusses the ways having an interior designer on their team from the outset truly benefits the process and the result of the project.

If that wasn’t enough, Denise will share tips for connecting with people who can introduce you to the type of projects you are looking for.

Tune in to this engaging and informative conversation!

Show Highlights:

  • Denise recounts why and how she changed her business model to include the construction part.
  • She is always the first point of contact as the interior designer. She rounds out each team with an architect, contractor, and whichever trades need to be added, as well.
  • Each team member has their unique perspective and experience that they bring to the job, all working together for the good of the client and a perfect outcome.
  • Making a 3D version of the architect’s plans can assist in both the design and the build in amazing ways.
  • Denise has a video on her website explaining the pros and cons and importance of having a designer involved at the beginning of construction.
  • One big successful project will generate referrals.
  • Sharing on social media tips and ways that your services have made a positive impact will further help you to get noticed.
  • Denise also holds a Construction Manager certificate from Pace University. This helps build confidence when she’s working with the rest of the team.
  • Communication is everything, and it’s all about the client.
  • Denise feels like she’s doing a good job when she gets new clients from her referral partners.
  • Denise shares some ideas on how to meet architects and builders in the area.
  • It’s important to create the relationship first.
  • A CFO surprise!
  • When you know your numbers, it instills confidence and that comes across to your clients.
  • Potential clients will know if you know what you’re doing.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Power Talk Friday

LuAnn Live

Connect with Denise!

Denise’s Website

Denise’s Facebook

Denise’s Instagram

Denise SINGS!The 1-4-5's YouTube Channel

Podcast Sponsor:

Article

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Other episodes mentioned:

#380 Circle Design, John and Theresa Dorlini

#361, #442, Kimberly Merlitti

#441 4Pt Design Build, Laura and Cliff Muller

#181 H2 Design Build, Angela Rasmussen

#202 Enoch Sears

#292 Jana Phipps

 

]]> 4315 no 512: Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/512-window-treatment-friday-drapery-hardware Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! It’s been a while since LuAnn has had a window treatment episode, so she’s super-excited to have her co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska back on the show. Hardware is the subject of today’s show, and if talking about ripple folds, pinch pleats, stationary rods, rod pockets, and rods with c-rings make your heart beat a little faster, then you’ve found your people! Drapery rods can be a super-complicated thing, but LuAnn and Vita have a way of making this a fun conversation. Join them in this educational and insightful journey into the world of window treatment hardware. Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  Show Highlights: The more knowledge you have on hardware enables you to sell more window treatments. There are four main components to drapery hardware: the rod, the finials, the brackets, and the rings. The types of rod (or pole) is a basic traverse rod, a decorative traverse rod, and a pole that doesn’t move. Vita explains more about each rod and how it functions with drapery. LuAnn and Vita sing the praises of Kirsch and its Architrac Ripplefold track. Motorized draperies? Yes, it’s a thing! Provide your client with ALL of the options, and let them decide what they want. LuAnn and Vita address drapery issues that designers run into. How to counter a client who asks for a lower price. Drapery hardware can add a lot of profit to a job, but it is its own beast in the world of window treatment professionals. Distributors are there to help you. Familiarize yourself with Kirsch’s website and other drapery hardware websites. Window treatments are a great way to make your company more profitable. Check out LuAnn’s Live Events! She would love to meet you!  Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Kravet To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!     Fri, 21 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware full 512 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! It’s been a while since LuAnn has had a window treatment episode, so she’s super-excited to have her co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska back on the show. Hardware is... Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! It’s been a while since LuAnn has had a window treatment episode, so she’s super-excited to have her co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska back on the show. Hardware is the subject of today’s show, and if talking about ripple folds, pinch pleats, stationary rods, rod pockets, and rods with c-rings make your heart beat a little faster, then you’ve found your people! Drapery rods can be a super-complicated thing, but LuAnn and Vita have a way of making this a fun conversation. Join them in this educational and insightful journey into the world of window treatment hardware. Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  Show Highlights: The more knowledge you have on hardware enables you to sell more window treatments. There are four main components to drapery hardware: the rod, the finials, the brackets, and the rings. The types of rod (or pole) is a basic traverse rod, a decorative traverse rod, and a pole that doesn’t move. Vita explains more about each rod and how it functions with drapery. LuAnn and Vita sing the praises of Kirsch and its Architrac Ripplefold track. Motorized draperies? Yes, it’s a thing! Provide your client with ALL of the options, and let them decide what they want. LuAnn and Vita address drapery issues that designers run into. How to counter a client who asks for a lower price. Drapery hardware can add a lot of profit to a job, but it is its own beast in the world of window treatment professionals. Distributors are there to help you. Familiarize yourself with Kirsch’s website and other drapery hardware websites. Window treatments are a great way to make your company more profitable. Check out LuAnn’s Live Events! She would love to meet you!  Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Kravet To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!     Welcome to A Well Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! It’s been a while since LuAnn has had a window treatment episode, so she’s super-excited to have her co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska back on the show.

Hardware is the subject of today’s show, and if talking about ripple folds, pinch pleats, stationary rods, rod pockets, and rods with c-rings make your heart beat a little faster, then you’ve found your people!

Drapery rods can be a super-complicated thing, but LuAnn and Vita have a way of making this a fun conversation. Join them in this educational and insightful journey into the world of window treatment hardware.

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. 

Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. 

Show Highlights:

  • The more knowledge you have on hardware enables you to sell more window treatments.
  • There are four main components to drapery hardware: the rod, the finials, the brackets, and the rings.
  • The types of rod (or pole) is a basic traverse rod, a decorative traverse rod, and a pole that doesn’t move.
  • Vita explains more about each rod and how it functions with drapery.
  • LuAnn and Vita sing the praises of Kirsch and its Architrac Ripplefold track.
  • Motorized draperies? Yes, it’s a thing!
  • Provide your client with ALL of the options, and let them decide what they want.
  • LuAnn and Vita address drapery issues that designers run into.
  • How to counter a client who asks for a lower price.
  • Drapery hardware can add a lot of profit to a job, but it is its own beast in the world of window treatment professionals.
  • Distributors are there to help you.
  • Familiarize yourself with Kirsch’s website and other drapery hardware websites.
  • Window treatments are a great way to make your company more profitable.
  • Check out LuAnn’s Live Events! She would love to meet you! 

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Kravet

To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc

To learn more about working with Window Works

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

To learn about Exciting Windows

Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch

Connect with Your Local Kirsch Distributor Now!

 

 

]]> 3568 no 511: Victoria Sanchez: New Ideas on How We Educate Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/511-victoria-sanchez-new-ideas-on-how-we-educate-interior-designers Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Join LuAnn and her guest, Victoria Sanchez, in this thought-provoking conversation about changing things up in the way we educate interior designers. Her concern is if we don’t start to make changes in the design curriculum, then we, as an industry, are at risk. At one time, Victoria served as in interior design professor at Marymount University and this is where the conversation begins today. As LuAnn will tell you, this is a totally new idea to her and many of us, and sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know! Just wait until you hear what Victoria proposes! Victoria Sanchez, one of America’s premier design professionals, has been creating one-of-a-kind interiors for hundreds of prominent clients over the past three decades. Dubbed a home décor “style maker” by Luxe magazine, Victoria is an award-winning designer who offers services ranging from project management and space planning to kitchen and bath design and furniture selection. She and her team are backed by the region’s leading contractors, painters, architects, kitchen and bath pros, flooring specialists, audio-visual experts, and other professionals. Victoria, whose work has appeared in publications nationwide, is known for her extraordinary customer service, fee integrity and ability to help clients get the highest return on their design investment. She has designed multiple homes for the same clients and has worked with companies to design the interiors of apartment buildings, boutique hotels, and law offices. Victoria spent the majority of her career in Alexandria, Virginia, providing design services to Fortune 500 executives, lobbyists, military generals, doctors, lawyers, investment specialists and other professionals throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and along the east coast. While there, she also ran her ‘Victoria at Home’ shop, the area’s leading source of elegant home furnishings and accessories. Her collection of the finest upholstery, furniture, art, lighting, and pillows was carefully and proudly curated from an international network of vendors and suppliers. Now based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Victoria is keeping busy in ways she had never imagined. From charitable design work to the restoration of heritage buildings, the depth and breadth of her work have expanded while her style becomes more and more influenced by the new colors and nature that surround her. She continues to travel back to the East Coast on a regular basis, taking on projects across the country. Victoria also speaks at design industry events across the United States. She is currently active in the American Society of Interior Designers and holds Bachelor of Arts and Masters degrees in Interior Design from Marymount University. She also previously served as an interior design professor and was a board member of the Washington, D.C. chapter of the International Furnishings and Design Association. Show Highlights: The internet and all the design centers being opened to retail now both present concern to interior designers, because consumers now have the same access as designers. A bigger cause for concern is that we are not producing business-minded interior designers when they graduate from their programs. The top ten schools in the country have the same curriculum due to certification requirements. Victoria explains that colleges are trying to pack far too much information into a 4-year program. Students must learn residential design, commercial design, sustainability, and technical presentation skills, in addition to the general education classes. The solution offered by Victoria is to take the programs, pull them apart, and offer three separate interior design programs: residential, commercial, and technical presentation. This would allow schools to offer more courses, such as business law, accounting, marketing, and professional practices. We are moving forward in our profession when we can offer a student the opportunity to be a designer with a business brain. Interior design is very tactile; therefore, a designer misses the basics when rushing through courses and doing work digitally. It’s not that industry leaders are apathetic to change, but they are tasked with the traditional models of teaching the student all of the aspects of interior design. Changing the curriculum to product business-minded interior designers represents a challenge to CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation). LuAnn and Victoria discuss ideas for implementation. LuAnn points out that those running the most successful interior design firms come with experience or training in running a business. It’s a business first, and a design firm second. The younger generation of designers understand that they need business skills, and are currently turning to podcasts to learn what schools aren’t teaching them. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Victoria! Victoria’s Website Victoria’s Pinterest Victoria’s Facebook Victoria’s Instagram Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Mentioned Episodes: Dr. Ellen Fisher Ep #71 Ashlina Kaposta Ep #109   Tue, 18 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Victoria Sanchez: New Ideas on How We Educate Interior Designers full 511 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Join LuAnn and her guest, Victoria Sanchez, in this thought-provoking conversation about changing things up in the way we educate interior designers. Her concern is if we don’t start to make changes in... Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Join LuAnn and her guest, Victoria Sanchez, in this thought-provoking conversation about changing things up in the way we educate interior designers. Her concern is if we don’t start to make changes in the design curriculum, then we, as an industry, are at risk. At one time, Victoria served as in interior design professor at Marymount University and this is where the conversation begins today. As LuAnn will tell you, this is a totally new idea to her and many of us, and sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know! Just wait until you hear what Victoria proposes! Victoria Sanchez, one of America’s premier design professionals, has been creating one-of-a-kind interiors for hundreds of prominent clients over the past three decades. Dubbed a home décor “style maker” by Luxe magazine, Victoria is an award-winning designer who offers services ranging from project management and space planning to kitchen and bath design and furniture selection. She and her team are backed by the region’s leading contractors, painters, architects, kitchen and bath pros, flooring specialists, audio-visual experts, and other professionals. Victoria, whose work has appeared in publications nationwide, is known for her extraordinary customer service, fee integrity and ability to help clients get the highest return on their design investment. She has designed multiple homes for the same clients and has worked with companies to design the interiors of apartment buildings, boutique hotels, and law offices. Victoria spent the majority of her career in Alexandria, Virginia, providing design services to Fortune 500 executives, lobbyists, military generals, doctors, lawyers, investment specialists and other professionals throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and along the east coast. While there, she also ran her ‘Victoria at Home’ shop, the area’s leading source of elegant home furnishings and accessories. Her collection of the finest upholstery, furniture, art, lighting, and pillows was carefully and proudly curated from an international network of vendors and suppliers. Now based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Victoria is keeping busy in ways she had never imagined. From charitable design work to the restoration of heritage buildings, the depth and breadth of her work have expanded while her style becomes more and more influenced by the new colors and nature that surround her. She continues to travel back to the East Coast on a regular basis, taking on projects across the country. Victoria also speaks at design industry events across the United States. She is currently active in the American Society of Interior Designers and holds Bachelor of Arts and Masters degrees in Interior Design from Marymount University. She also previously served as an interior design professor and was a board member of the Washington, D.C. chapter of the International Furnishings and Design Association. Show Highlights: The internet and all the design centers being opened to retail now both present concern to interior designers, because consumers now have the same access as designers. A bigger cause for concern is that we are not producing business-minded interior designers when they graduate from their programs. The top ten schools in the country have the same curriculum due to certification requirements. Victoria explains that colleges are trying to pack far too much information into a 4-year program. Students must learn residential design, commercial design, sustainability, and technical presentation skills, in addition to the general education classes. The solution offered by Victoria is to take the programs, pull them apart, and offer three separate interior design programs: residential, commercial, and technical presentation. This would allow schools to offer more courses, such as business law, accounting, marketing, and professional practices. We are moving forward in our profession when we can offer a student the opportunity to be a designer with a business brain. Interior design is very tactile; therefore, a designer misses the basics when rushing through courses and doing work digitally. It’s not that industry leaders are apathetic to change, but they are tasked with the traditional models of teaching the student all of the aspects of interior design. Changing the curriculum to product business-minded interior designers represents a challenge to CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation). LuAnn and Victoria discuss ideas for implementation. LuAnn points out that those running the most successful interior design firms come with experience or training in running a business. It’s a business first, and a design firm second. The younger generation of designers understand that they need business skills, and are currently turning to podcasts to learn what schools aren’t teaching them. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Victoria! Victoria’s Website Victoria’s Pinterest Victoria’s Facebook Victoria’s Instagram Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Mentioned Episodes: Dr. Ellen Fisher Ep #71 Ashlina Kaposta Ep #109   Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Join LuAnn and her guest, Victoria Sanchez, in this thought-provoking conversation about changing things up in the way we educate interior designers. Her concern is if we don’t start to make changes in the design curriculum, then we, as an industry, are at risk.

At one time, Victoria served as in interior design professor at Marymount University and this is where the conversation begins today. As LuAnn will tell you, this is a totally new idea to her and many of us, and sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know! Just wait until you hear what Victoria proposes!

Victoria Sanchez, one of America’s premier design professionals, has been creating one-of-a-kind interiors for hundreds of prominent clients over the past three decades.

Dubbed a home décor “style maker” by Luxe magazine, Victoria is an award-winning designer who offers services ranging from project management and space planning to kitchen and bath design and furniture selection. She and her team are backed by the region’s leading contractors, painters, architects, kitchen and bath pros, flooring specialists, audio-visual experts, and other professionals.

Victoria, whose work has appeared in publications nationwide, is known for her extraordinary customer service, fee integrity and ability to help clients get the highest return on their design investment. She has designed multiple homes for the same clients and has worked with companies to design the interiors of apartment buildings, boutique hotels, and law offices.

Victoria spent the majority of her career in Alexandria, Virginia, providing design services to Fortune 500 executives, lobbyists, military generals, doctors, lawyers, investment specialists and other professionals throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and along the east coast. While there, she also ran her ‘Victoria at Home’ shop, the area’s leading source of elegant home furnishings and accessories. Her collection of the finest upholstery, furniture, art, lighting, and pillows was carefully and proudly curated from an international network of vendors and suppliers.

Now based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Victoria is keeping busy in ways she had never imagined. From charitable design work to the restoration of heritage buildings, the depth and breadth of her work have expanded while her style becomes more and more influenced by the new colors and nature that surround her. She continues to travel back to the East Coast on a regular basis, taking on projects across the country.

Victoria also speaks at design industry events across the United States. She is currently active in the American Society of Interior Designers and holds Bachelor of Arts and Masters degrees in Interior Design from Marymount University. She also previously served as an interior design professor and was a board member of the Washington, D.C. chapter of the International Furnishings and Design Association.

Show Highlights:

  • The internet and all the design centers being opened to retail now both present concern to interior designers, because consumers now have the same access as designers.
  • A bigger cause for concern is that we are not producing business-minded interior designers when they graduate from their programs.
  • The top ten schools in the country have the same curriculum due to certification requirements.
  • Victoria explains that colleges are trying to pack far too much information into a 4-year program.
  • Students must learn residential design, commercial design, sustainability, and technical presentation skills, in addition to the general education classes.
  • The solution offered by Victoria is to take the programs, pull them apart, and offer three separate interior design programs: residential, commercial, and technical presentation.
  • This would allow schools to offer more courses, such as business law, accounting, marketing, and professional practices.
  • We are moving forward in our profession when we can offer a student the opportunity to be a designer with a business brain.
  • Interior design is very tactile; therefore, a designer misses the basics when rushing through courses and doing work digitally.
  • It’s not that industry leaders are apathetic to change, but they are tasked with the traditional models of teaching the student all of the aspects of interior design.
  • Changing the curriculum to product business-minded interior designers represents a challenge to CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation).
  • LuAnn and Victoria discuss ideas for implementation.
  • LuAnn points out that those running the most successful interior design firms come with experience or training in running a business. It’s a business first, and a design firm second.
  • The younger generation of designers understand that they need business skills, and are currently turning to podcasts to learn what schools aren’t teaching them.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Connect with Victoria!

Victoria’s Website

Victoria’s Pinterest

Victoria’s Facebook

Victoria’s Instagram

Podcast Sponsor:

Article

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Mentioned Episodes:

Dr. Ellen Fisher Ep #71

Ashlina Kaposta Ep #109

 

]]> 3918 no 510: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Notices 3 Traits of Smart Business Owners http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/510-power-talk-friday-luann-notices-3-traits-of-smart-business-owners Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn shares her findings on coaching a diverse group of entrepreneurs. As it turns out, they have several tangible things in common that she was so impressed by that she decided to dedicate a podcast to complimenting these special people and laying out for you what she has discovered in their time together. As she relates, this has been an ‘A-ha!’ moment for her, and she hopes it will be for her listeners, as well. If you don’t already see yourself in these descriptions, perhaps it’s time that you do something to work toward them. Additionally, LuAnn brings you exciting news of her upcoming LIVE events that she will be attending spring and summer, and invites you to join her because she LOVES meeting you in person! Show Highlights: The 3 Traits of Smart Business Owners: They come to every session with a truly open mind. They listen, ask great questions, and take action on ideas that are new to them and that sometimes even make them a bit nervous. They understand the importance of having a coach because it is an investment in their business. A coach can help you grow beyond what you imagine for yourself and shorten the learning curves. They have hope. Hope for themselves, hope for their business, and hope for the industry. They seek out new ideas and new ways to make a profit, to succeed and service a client where the client needs it the most. Companion questions to ask yourself: Are you open to taking advice? Even advice that you think might not work for you? If you are the sum of the 5 people you spend the most time what, how does that make you look? What does your crew look like? Do you create opportunities through mentoring, coaching, and eduction that increase your value and your business acumen? Do you believe in yourself? Do you know your value and how you enrich other peoples’ lives? Do you take your talent and your abilities serious enough to invest in them? March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc. and 200 Lex for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the events tab. March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE / March 25th to the 27th Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision. April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020. High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8 am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday April 25th,she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects. On Sunday, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team at Kravet. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us. Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details. Wednesday April 29th LuAnn will be back in NYC and NYSID has invited her to do a solo presentation and book signing. This is open to the public and is an evening event. On May 20th, the Philadelphia Chapter of IFDA has asked LuAnn to speak and her friends at the Kravet showroom are hosting. Please join us. June 4,5,6, ASID California is having their annual conference in Santa Barbara this year and they have invited LuAnn to do a solo presentation and moderate a panel. Currently, they are finalizing the designer speakers and panelists and so far, it’s looking like A-List all the way! A minute later on Jun 9th LuAnn may be confirming an event with the NKBA NJ Chapter, so stay tuned on that. June 16th, LuAnn’s friend, Vita, her co-host from their WTF episodes is having a grand opening party at her brand-new work room and she will be there for this celebration. Hope you will come too! We will get as many of these as we can on my website but if one in particular is right for you and it is not on my site, reach out to the hosting event for the details. LuAnn’s website is LuAnn Nigara. And of course, in the fall there will be LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation again, here in NJ. Please be on the email list for when she announces ticket sales are open—go to LuAnn Live. For now, keep early November open and plan your budget for tickets, flights, and hotels. The announcement will be later this month for sure! Want to make LuAnn’s day? She really does love to take her friendships from virtual to real, so please plan to attend at least one of these events. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Special Thanks to Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch   Fri, 14 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Notices 3 Traits of Smart Business Owners full 510 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn shares her findings on coaching a diverse group of entrepreneurs. As it turns out, they have several tangible things in common that she was so impressed by that she decided to dedicate a... Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn shares her findings on coaching a diverse group of entrepreneurs. As it turns out, they have several tangible things in common that she was so impressed by that she decided to dedicate a podcast to complimenting these special people and laying out for you what she has discovered in their time together. As she relates, this has been an ‘A-ha!’ moment for her, and she hopes it will be for her listeners, as well. If you don’t already see yourself in these descriptions, perhaps it’s time that you do something to work toward them. Additionally, LuAnn brings you exciting news of her upcoming LIVE events that she will be attending spring and summer, and invites you to join her because she LOVES meeting you in person! Show Highlights: The 3 Traits of Smart Business Owners: They come to every session with a truly open mind. They listen, ask great questions, and take action on ideas that are new to them and that sometimes even make them a bit nervous. They understand the importance of having a coach because it is an investment in their business. A coach can help you grow beyond what you imagine for yourself and shorten the learning curves. They have hope. Hope for themselves, hope for their business, and hope for the industry. They seek out new ideas and new ways to make a profit, to succeed and service a client where the client needs it the most. Companion questions to ask yourself: Are you open to taking advice? Even advice that you think might not work for you? If you are the sum of the 5 people you spend the most time what, how does that make you look? What does your crew look like? Do you create opportunities through mentoring, coaching, and eduction that increase your value and your business acumen? Do you believe in yourself? Do you know your value and how you enrich other peoples’ lives? Do you take your talent and your abilities serious enough to invest in them? March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc. and 200 Lex for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the events tab. March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE / March 25th to the 27th Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision. April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020. High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8 am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday April 25th,she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects. On Sunday, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team at Kravet. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us. Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details. Wednesday April 29th LuAnn will be back in NYC and NYSID has invited her to do a solo presentation and book signing. This is open to the public and is an evening event. On May 20th, the Philadelphia Chapter of IFDA has asked LuAnn to speak and her friends at the Kravet showroom are hosting. Please join us. June 4,5,6, ASID California is having their annual conference in Santa Barbara this year and they have invited LuAnn to do a solo presentation and moderate a panel. Currently, they are finalizing the designer speakers and panelists and so far, it’s looking like A-List all the way! A minute later on Jun 9th LuAnn may be confirming an event with the NKBA NJ Chapter, so stay tuned on that. June 16th, LuAnn’s friend, Vita, her co-host from their WTF episodes is having a grand opening party at her brand-new work room and she will be there for this celebration. Hope you will come too! We will get as many of these as we can on my website but if one in particular is right for you and it is not on my site, reach out to the hosting event for the details. LuAnn’s website is LuAnn Nigara. And of course, in the fall there will be LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation again, here in NJ. Please be on the email list for when she announces ticket sales are open—go to LuAnn Live. For now, keep early November open and plan your budget for tickets, flights, and hotels. The announcement will be later this month for sure! Want to make LuAnn’s day? She really does love to take her friendships from virtual to real, so please plan to attend at least one of these events. Resources: LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Special Thanks to Podcast Sponsor: Kirsch   Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn shares her findings on coaching a diverse group of entrepreneurs. As it turns out, they have several tangible things in common that she was so impressed by that she decided to dedicate a podcast to complimenting these special people and laying out for you what she has discovered in their time together.

As she relates, this has been an ‘A-ha!’ moment for her, and she hopes it will be for her listeners, as well. If you don’t already see yourself in these descriptions, perhaps it’s time that you do something to work toward them.

Additionally, LuAnn brings you exciting news of her upcoming LIVE events that she will be attending spring and summer, and invites you to join her because she LOVES meeting you in person!

Show Highlights:

  • The 3 Traits of Smart Business Owners:
  1. They come to every session with a truly open mind. They listen, ask great questions, and take action on ideas that are new to them and that sometimes even make them a bit nervous.
  2. They understand the importance of having a coach because it is an investment in their business. A coach can help you grow beyond what you imagine for yourself and shorten the learning curves.
  3. They have hope. Hope for themselves, hope for their business, and hope for the industry. They seek out new ideas and new ways to make a profit, to succeed and service a client where the client needs it the most.
  • Companion questions to ask yourself:
  1. Are you open to taking advice? Even advice that you think might not work for you?
  2. If you are the sum of the 5 people you spend the most time what, how does that make you look? What does your crew look like? Do you create opportunities through mentoring, coaching, and eduction that increase your value and your business acumen?
  3. Do you believe in yourself? Do you know your value and how you enrich other peoples’ lives? Do you take your talent and your abilities serious enough to invest in them?
  • March 19this the 4th birthday party for this podcast! Thanks to Kravet Inc. and 200 Lex for hosting this. Please join us 5:30- 7:30 pm at the Kravet Work Space Showroom at 200 Lexington Ave NYC. You can find the RSVP on EventBrite as well as on the website under the events tab.
  • March 21stto 24th Exciting Windows and IWCE / March 25th to the 27th
  • Teaching the Professional Window Coverings 7 Step Process, which is open to the public. Go to Exciting Windows. At the IWCE, Luann will be doing Closing the Sale Begins with Hello, as well as moderating some panels on Profitability with the Vin Man and Michele Williams. Next, LuAnn has a panel with Sara Brennan on Packaging your Process and Working with Window Treatment Professionals with Sara Brennan and Vita. Please visit IWCE-Vision.
  • April 2nd, Thursday, East End Interiors is celebrating 30 years in business this year and they have invited LuAnn to speak at their showroom in Long Island NY. If you were at LuAnn Live last year, then you know Sal and Enza and you already know what a fantastic family business they run. If you are in the NY Metro area, especially LI, you must make the time to join us so you can see everything they have to help you complete all of your design projects. They are a strictly to the trade showroom featuring furniture, lighting, accessory and more. LuAnn is also delighted to share that they are the Exclusive VIP Experience Sponsor for LuAnn Nigara Live 2020.
  • High Point Market in April. It all starts with LuAnn’s PTF Tour on Friday, April 24th, 8 am to 11:00 pm. Yup, all day, this event is jam-packed, loaded-to-the-gills, with eye-opening A-ha’s and advice specific to your business. LuAnn brings you 3 of her PTF Experts and one of them is Sandra Funk, the CEO of HOF. Sandra will be on an upcoming PTF where you will learn how she truly runs the back end of her business. And then, get to spend the whole day picking her brain? Uhmmm, the price of admission is worth it right there, no question. During the next few days at HP, LuAnn will have several presentations and panels. Saturday April 25th,she’ll moderate a panel at the showroom of the newest sponsor to join the show, Jaipur, which will be co-hosted by Revelwoods and the Interior Design Society. They will be talking about the Design Build Process and how to navigate the big-ticket projects.
  • On Sunday, LuAnn will be in the HP Theater at 12:00 noon for a very special one-on-one conversation with a very special friend, designer, and all around outstanding human being…not sure if ASID wants the proverbial beans spilled yet…so just put LuAnn on your dance card! Here’s a hint: If you were at LuAnn Live, you could probably make a good guess as to his name… Sunday at 4:00 pm you can always find LuAnn at the Kravet showroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and meet the incredible leadership team at Kravet. Later at 6:00 pm Sunday, there will be a special VIP party with Mydoma Studio. YOU are the special VIP :) This is a kickoff event to celebrate this new collaboration, so please join us.
  • Monday morning, LuAnn will moderate a panel all about Process Leads to Profits. LuAnn’s friend and Process Leads to Profits course teacher, Sara Lynn Brennan will be there along with a few others yet to be announced. This is also hosted by Mydoma Studio. Check LuAnn’s Website later this month for all of the locations and details.
  • Wednesday April 29th LuAnn will be back in NYC and NYSID has invited her to do a solo presentation and book signing. This is open to the public and is an evening event.
  • On May 20th, the Philadelphia Chapter of IFDA has asked LuAnn to speak and her friends at the Kravet showroom are hosting. Please join us.
  • June 4,5,6, ASID California is having their annual conference in Santa Barbara this year and they have invited LuAnn to do a solo presentation and moderate a panel. Currently, they are finalizing the designer speakers and panelists and so far, it’s looking like A-List all the way!
  • A minute later on Jun 9th LuAnn may be confirming an event with the NKBA NJ Chapter, so stay tuned on that.
  • June 16th, LuAnn’s friend, Vita, her co-host from their WTF episodes is having a grand opening party at her brand-new work room and she will be there for this celebration. Hope you will come too!
  • We will get as many of these as we can on my website but if one in particular is right for you and it is not on my site, reach out to the hosting event for the details. LuAnn’s website is LuAnn Nigara.
  • And of course, in the fall there will be LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation again, here in NJ. Please be on the email list for when she announces ticket sales are open—go to LuAnn Live.
  • For now, keep early November open and plan your budget for tickets, flights, and hotels. The announcement will be later this month for sure!
  • Want to make LuAnn’s day? She really does love to take her friendships from virtual to real, so please plan to attend at least one of these events.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Special Thanks to Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch

 

]]> 1438 no 509: Nicole Cole: The Mindset Shift to CEO http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/508-nicole-cole-the-mindset-shift-to-ceo Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Nicole Cole joins LuAnn today for a chat about a-ha moments and the ensuing mindset shifts. Nicole will be sharing five takeaways she’s learned from both Power Talk Friday and her time with business coach, Nancy Ganzekaufer. You’ll want to listen in to hear her tips on how she accomplished her mindset shift to being a CEO so that you can implement these ideas for your business, too! Nicole Cole is the CEO and Principal Designer at vestige HOME, a Philadelphia based residential interior designer firm focused on creating spaces that are interesting, engaging, and that encourage people to live well. As a young adult, Nicole served in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer before leaving to pursue work in the corporate world. With her new-found freedom outside the military, she realized that she missed the curiosity and creativity she enjoyed as a child, and decided it was time to build a creative business. Thus, vestige HOME was born! Nicole and her team provide turnkey design services, which include trade resource coordination, sourcing expertise, creation of detailed plans, and open communication with her clients. With her many years of project management experience, she consistently delivers her projects in the most streamlined fashion with clear goals and expectations and a plan that provides the least amount of disruption possible to her client’s lives.   Nicole studied interior design at Monterey Peninsula College and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Information Systems from the University of Kansas. She believes in creating beauty and exercising a little creativity wherever possible, whether designing a room in a client’s house, picking the perfect pairing of plants for the garden, or just setting the table for breakfast on a Wednesday morning.  Nicole’s greatest joy is helping clients to create homes that reflect their lives and personalities while honoring the buildings that contain them. Show Highlights: Systems and processes are fundamental to the way you run a business. Confidence is the reward when systems and processes are used consistently. This confidence spills over to the client and they become confident in you. When you know what you will and will not do, and the why, you will be more selective about who you work with. When you refer a job because you know someone else can do it better than you can, it makes saying ‘no’ so much easier. Nicole’s Five Takeaways: She realized she was no longer “just” a designer, but the CEO. As CEO, she had responsibilities to herself, her team, and her clients. It’s important to build a team. Create the systems and processes, and teach them to your staff. Focus on the details of the client experience. Focus on profit, and don’t feel guilty! Lu Ann covers some additional obstacles that she has observed in speaking with designers. How there’s power in using the phrase, “In my experience”. LuAnn provides a designer perspective on how much work gets packed into each billing hour. When you truly explain what details go into what you do, that’s when the client can buy in to your charges. When you understand your own value for the work you do, you can then feel confident in either what you charge or raising what you charge. Resources: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market Friday, April 24th, 2020 from 8am - 11am! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Sponsors: Start Your Trial Now! Mydoma Studio- Your On-Stop Client & Project Management Tool! Jaipur A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party New York City, New York Thursday, March 19th 5:30 – 7:30pm  Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210 RSVP HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Nicole! Nicole’sWebsite  Nicole’s Instagram Nicole’s Facebook Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Links to other shows mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer #389 Michele Williams #180 Ashley Uhl #412 Bethany Mabee #450 Sarah Durnez #418 Brittanie Elms #149 Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #346 Kimberly Merlitti #442 Sara Lynn Brennan #463 Wendy Wolshchuk #316 Mikel Welch #297     Tue, 11 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Nicole Cole: The Mindset Shift to CEO full 509 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Nicole Cole joins LuAnn today for a chat about a-ha moments and the ensuing mindset shifts. Nicole will be sharing five takeaways she’s learned from both Power Talk Friday and her time with business... Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Nicole Cole joins LuAnn today for a chat about a-ha moments and the ensuing mindset shifts. Nicole will be sharing five takeaways she’s learned from both Power Talk Friday and her time with business coach, Nancy Ganzekaufer. You’ll want to listen in to hear her tips on how she accomplished her mindset shift to being a CEO so that you can implement these ideas for your business, too! Nicole Cole is the CEO and Principal Designer at vestige HOME, a Philadelphia based residential interior designer firm focused on creating spaces that are interesting, engaging, and that encourage people to live well. As a young adult, Nicole served in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer before leaving to pursue work in the corporate world. With her new-found freedom outside the military, she realized that she missed the curiosity and creativity she enjoyed as a child, and decided it was time to build a creative business. Thus, vestige HOME was born! Nicole and her team provide turnkey design services, which include trade resource coordination, sourcing expertise, creation of detailed plans, and open communication with her clients. With her many years of project management experience, she consistently delivers her projects in the most streamlined fashion with clear goals and expectations and a plan that provides the least amount of disruption possible to her client’s lives.   Nicole studied interior design at Monterey Peninsula College and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Information Systems from the University of Kansas. She believes in creating beauty and exercising a little creativity wherever possible, whether designing a room in a client’s house, picking the perfect pairing of plants for the garden, or just setting the table for breakfast on a Wednesday morning.  Nicole’s greatest joy is helping clients to create homes that reflect their lives and personalities while honoring the buildings that contain them. Show Highlights: Systems and processes are fundamental to the way you run a business. Confidence is the reward when systems and processes are used consistently. This confidence spills over to the client and they become confident in you. When you know what you will and will not do, and the why, you will be more selective about who you work with. When you refer a job because you know someone else can do it better than you can, it makes saying ‘no’ so much easier. Nicole’s Five Takeaways: She realized she was no longer “just” a designer, but the CEO. As CEO, she had responsibilities to herself, her team, and her clients. It’s important to build a team. Create the systems and processes, and teach them to your staff. Focus on the details of the client experience. Focus on profit, and don’t feel guilty! Lu Ann covers some additional obstacles that she has observed in speaking with designers. How there’s power in using the phrase, “In my experience”. LuAnn provides a designer perspective on how much work gets packed into each billing hour. When you truly explain what details go into what you do, that’s when the client can buy in to your charges. When you understand your own value for the work you do, you can then feel confident in either what you charge or raising what you charge. Resources: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market Friday, April 24th, 2020 from 8am - 11am! Sign Up For Updates HERE! Sponsors: Start Your Trial Now! Mydoma Studio- Your On-Stop Client & Project Management Tool! Jaipur A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party New York City, New York Thursday, March 19th 5:30 – 7:30pm  Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210 RSVP HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Nicole! Nicole’sWebsite  Nicole’s Instagram Nicole’s Facebook Podcast Sponsor: Article Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here! Links to other shows mentioned: Nancy Ganzekaufer #389 Michele Williams #180 Ashley Uhl #412 Bethany Mabee #450 Sarah Durnez #418 Brittanie Elms #149 Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #346 Kimberly Merlitti #442 Sara Lynn Brennan #463 Wendy Wolshchuk #316 Mikel Welch #297     Welcome to this episode of Power Talk Friday! Nicole Cole joins LuAnn today for a chat about a-ha moments and the ensuing mindset shifts.

Nicole will be sharing five takeaways she’s learned from both Power Talk Friday and her time with business coach, Nancy Ganzekaufer.

You’ll want to listen in to hear her tips on how she accomplished her mindset shift to being a CEO so that you can implement these ideas for your business, too!

Nicole Cole is the CEO and Principal Designer at vestige HOME, a Philadelphia based residential interior designer firm focused on creating spaces that are interesting, engaging, and that encourage people to live well. As a young adult, Nicole served in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer before leaving to pursue work in the corporate world. With her new-found freedom outside the military, she realized that she missed the curiosity and creativity she enjoyed as a child, and decided it was time to build a creative business. Thus, vestige HOME was born!

Nicole and her team provide turnkey design services, which include trade resource coordination, sourcing expertise, creation of detailed plans, and open communication with her clients. With her many years of project management experience, she consistently delivers her projects in the most streamlined fashion with clear goals and expectations and a plan that provides the least amount of disruption possible to her client’s lives.  

Nicole studied interior design at Monterey Peninsula College and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Information Systems from the University of Kansas. She believes in creating beauty and exercising a little creativity wherever possible, whether designing a room in a client’s house, picking the perfect pairing of plants for the garden, or just setting the table for breakfast on a Wednesday morning.  Nicole’s greatest joy is helping clients to create homes that reflect their lives and personalities while honoring the buildings that contain them.

Show Highlights:

  • Systems and processes are fundamental to the way you run a business.
  • Confidence is the reward when systems and processes are used consistently.
  • This confidence spills over to the client and they become confident in you.
  • When you know what you will and will not do, and the why, you will be more selective about who you work with.
  • When you refer a job because you know someone else can do it better than you can, it makes saying ‘no’ so much easier.
  • Nicole’s Five Takeaways:
  1. She realized she was no longer “just” a designer, but the CEO. As CEO, she had responsibilities to herself, her team, and her clients.
  2. It’s important to build a team.
  3. Create the systems and processes, and teach them to your staff.
  4. Focus on the details of the client experience.
  5. Focus on profit, and don’t feel guilty!
  • Lu Ann covers some additional obstacles that she has observed in speaking with designers.
  • How there’s power in using the phrase, “In my experience”.
  • LuAnn provides a designer perspective on how much work gets packed into each billing hour.
  • When you truly explain what details go into what you do, that’s when the client can buy in to your charges.
  • When you understand your own value for the work you do, you can then feel confident in either what you charge or raising what you charge.

Resources:

Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market

Friday, April 24th, 2020 from 8am - 11am!

Sign Up For Updates HERE!

Sponsors:

Start Your Trial Now!

Mydoma Studio- Your On-Stop Client & Project Management Tool!

Jaipur

A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party

New York City, New York

Thursday, March 19th

5:30 – 7:30pm 

Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210

RSVP HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Connect with Nicole!

Nicole’sWebsite 

Nicole’s Instagram

Nicole’s Facebook

Podcast Sponsor:

Article

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Links to other shows mentioned:

Nancy Ganzekaufer #389

Michele Williams #180

Ashley Uhl #412

Bethany Mabee #450

Sarah Durnez #418

Brittanie Elms #149

Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron #346

Kimberly Merlitti #442

Sara Lynn Brennan #463

Wendy Wolshchuk #316

Mikel Welch #297

 

 

]]> 4771 no 508: Power Talk Friday: Nikki Rausch: The Sales Maven http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/508-power-talk-friday-nikki-rausch-the-sales-maven Welcome to today’s episode of Power Talk Friday, where LuAnn chats with Nikki Rausch, a fellow seasoned sales guru with a passion for the art of selling. Nikki has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of selling into techniques, tools, and tips that can successfully be incorporated into a duplicatable process. Nikki Rausch is the Founder and CEO of Sales Maven, where she leverages her 25 years of sales experience to help entrepreneurs learn to sell in an authentic way. As a sales coach, trainer, author, and speaker, Nikki teaches her clients how to authentically move people through the selling process in a way that builds relationships, creates true connection, and results in more closed deals and long-term clients. Her latest book, Selling Staircase, is sure to leave you feeling confidently equipped to develop a genuine sales process that gets those deals closed. Listen in to this jam-packed conversation to find out more about how showing up from a place of credibility and being more strategic will help you to reach your sales goals. Show Highlights: Sales is really about creating strong relationships with people. LuAnn likens closing a sale with being on a first date. Interior Designers often classify themselves as an introvert and therefore don’t develop sales skills. Using your own personality is the best way to grow your business. Nikki helps clients learn how to use language to attract ideal clients. It’s important to be the expert and provide recommendations. You need to be able to explain the “why” so that communication is clear. You can talk people out of buying from you if you don’t recognize a buying signal. LuAnn and Nikki share personal pet-peeves they have when they’re on the receiving end of a sales pitch. Nikki’s 5 Steps of the Selling Staircase: Introduction: Establish yourself as a credible source and make a powerful first impression. Creating Curiosity: Is this a potential client or colleague? Tip: Are you answering questions in a way that spurs people to want to know more about you? Nikki explains the difference between using a ‘cat-calling’ and ‘dog-calling’ technique to create curiosity. The Discovery Phase: Find out what their want/need/problem is, and ask questions that lead to people hiring you. The Proposal: As the expert, recommend the services that you think your client needs, and not what you think they can afford. The Close: Use closing language and then zip it! Let your prospect respond first. If they raise an objection, be ready to uncover and overcome the “real” objection. You, as the salesperson, are not allowed to skip any of these steps. Your client, however, can! Resources: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market Coming Spring 2020! Sign Up For Updates HERE! A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party New York City, New York Thursday, March 19th 5:30 – 7:30pm  Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210 RSVP HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Nikki! Nikki’s Website - Free E-Book ‘Closing the Sale’! Learn why you might be fumbling sales calls and what to do instead, how you can establish yourself as the expert and language to use when asking for the sale. Nikki’s Sales Maven SocietyFor 10% Off Membership, Use COUPON CODE: luann Nikki’s Selling Strength Assessment Nikki’s Facebook Nikki’s Instagram Nikki’s Linkedin Nikki’s YouTube Nikki’s Books Fri, 07 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nikki Rausch: The Sales Maven full 508 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today’s episode of Power Talk Friday, where LuAnn chats with Nikki Rausch, a fellow seasoned sales guru with a passion for the art of selling. Nikki has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of selling into techniques,... Welcome to today’s episode of Power Talk Friday, where LuAnn chats with Nikki Rausch, a fellow seasoned sales guru with a passion for the art of selling. Nikki has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of selling into techniques, tools, and tips that can successfully be incorporated into a duplicatable process. Nikki Rausch is the Founder and CEO of Sales Maven, where she leverages her 25 years of sales experience to help entrepreneurs learn to sell in an authentic way. As a sales coach, trainer, author, and speaker, Nikki teaches her clients how to authentically move people through the selling process in a way that builds relationships, creates true connection, and results in more closed deals and long-term clients. Her latest book, Selling Staircase, is sure to leave you feeling confidently equipped to develop a genuine sales process that gets those deals closed. Listen in to this jam-packed conversation to find out more about how showing up from a place of credibility and being more strategic will help you to reach your sales goals. Show Highlights: Sales is really about creating strong relationships with people. LuAnn likens closing a sale with being on a first date. Interior Designers often classify themselves as an introvert and therefore don’t develop sales skills. Using your own personality is the best way to grow your business. Nikki helps clients learn how to use language to attract ideal clients. It’s important to be the expert and provide recommendations. You need to be able to explain the “why” so that communication is clear. You can talk people out of buying from you if you don’t recognize a buying signal. LuAnn and Nikki share personal pet-peeves they have when they’re on the receiving end of a sales pitch. Nikki’s 5 Steps of the Selling Staircase: Introduction: Establish yourself as a credible source and make a powerful first impression. Creating Curiosity: Is this a potential client or colleague? Tip: Are you answering questions in a way that spurs people to want to know more about you? Nikki explains the difference between using a ‘cat-calling’ and ‘dog-calling’ technique to create curiosity. The Discovery Phase: Find out what their want/need/problem is, and ask questions that lead to people hiring you. The Proposal: As the expert, recommend the services that you think your client needs, and not what you think they can afford. The Close: Use closing language and then zip it! Let your prospect respond first. If they raise an objection, be ready to uncover and overcome the “real” objection. You, as the salesperson, are not allowed to skip any of these steps. Your client, however, can! Resources: Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market Coming Spring 2020! Sign Up For Updates HERE! A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party New York City, New York Thursday, March 19th 5:30 – 7:30pm  Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210 RSVP HERE! LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review! Purchase LuAnn’s Book! Connect with Nikki! Nikki’s Website - Free E-Book ‘Closing the Sale’! Learn why you might be fumbling sales calls and what to do instead, how you can establish yourself as the expert and language to use when asking for the sale. Nikki’s Sales Maven SocietyFor 10% Off Membership, Use COUPON CODE: luann Nikki’s Selling Strength Assessment Nikki’s Facebook Nikki’s Instagram Nikki’s Linkedin Nikki’s YouTube Nikki’s Books Welcome to today’s episode of Power Talk Friday, where LuAnn chats with Nikki Rausch, a fellow seasoned sales guru with a passion for the art of selling.

Nikki has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of selling into techniques, tools, and tips that can successfully be incorporated into a duplicatable process.

Nikki Rausch is the Founder and CEO of Sales Maven, where she leverages her 25 years of sales experience to help entrepreneurs learn to sell in an authentic way. As a sales coach, trainer, author, and speaker, Nikki teaches her clients how to authentically move people through the selling process in a way that builds relationships, creates true connection, and results in more closed deals and long-term clients.

Her latest book, Selling Staircase, is sure to leave you feeling confidently equipped to develop a genuine sales process that gets those deals closed.

Listen in to this jam-packed conversation to find out more about how showing up from a place of credibility and being more strategic will help you to reach your sales goals.

Show Highlights:

  • Sales is really about creating strong relationships with people.
  • LuAnn likens closing a sale with being on a first date.
  • Interior Designers often classify themselves as an introvert and therefore don’t develop sales skills.
  • Using your own personality is the best way to grow your business.
  • Nikki helps clients learn how to use language to attract ideal clients.
  • It’s important to be the expert and provide recommendations. You need to be able to explain the “why” so that communication is clear.
  • You can talk people out of buying from you if you don’t recognize a buying signal.
  • LuAnn and Nikki share personal pet-peeves they have when they’re on the receiving end of a sales pitch.
  • Nikki’s 5 Steps of the Selling Staircase:
  1. Introduction: Establish yourself as a credible source and make a powerful first impression.
  2. Creating Curiosity: Is this a potential client or colleague? Tip: Are you answering questions in a way that spurs people to want to know more about you? Nikki explains the difference between using a ‘cat-calling’ and ‘dog-calling’ technique to create curiosity.
  3. The Discovery Phase: Find out what their want/need/problem is, and ask questions that lead to people hiring you.
  4. The Proposal: As the expert, recommend the services that you think your client needs, and not what you think they can afford.
  5. The Close: Use closing language and then zip it! Let your prospect respond first. If they raise an objection, be ready to uncover and overcome the “real” objection.
  • You, as the salesperson, are not allowed to skip any of these steps. Your client, however, can!

Resources:

Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Market

Coming Spring 2020!

Sign Up For Updates HERE!

A Well Designed Business Podcast® 4th Birthday Party

New York City, New York

Thursday, March 19th

5:30 – 7:30pm 

Kravet Workspace, 200 Lexington Avenue, Suite 210

RSVP HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Podcast - Please SUBSCRIBE, Rate & Review!

Purchase LuAnn’s Book!

Connect with Nikki!

Nikki’s Website - Free E-Book ‘Closing the Sale’! Learn why you might be fumbling sales calls and what to do instead, how you can establish yourself as the expert and language to use when asking for the sale.

Nikki’s Sales Maven SocietyFor 10% Off Membership, Use COUPON CODE: luann

Nikki’s Selling Strength Assessment

Nikki’s Facebook

Nikki’s Instagram

Nikki’s Linkedin

Nikki’s YouTube

Nikki’s Books

]]> 4470 no 507: Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/507-barclay-butera-25-years-of-beautiful-design Welcome! On today’s show, the creative force behind the Barclay Butera Design Firm, joins us on the show for the second time on the podcast. We pick up with Barclay today, where we left off with him in our previous conversation in episode # 122. He talks to us about his corporation, how it has changed, how he vets potential licensing partners, and what his responsibilities are, in terms of his relationships with his licensing partners. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what Barclay has to share. Barclay has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm since 1994, and he is well-known for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal-chic interiors. He has showrooms in New Port Beach, California, Corona Del Mar, California, and Park City, Utah. Apart from his thriving interior design business, Barclay is also a stand-out leader in our industry for developing and earning licensing agreements. His licensing partners include Kravet, Jaipur, Bradburn Home Lighting, Castell Outdoor Furniture, Eastern Accents, Leftbank Art, Lexington Home Brands, Mirror Image, Napa Home and Garden, and many others. Barclay also has a long list of esteemed press and media publication credentials. Tune in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: Barclay talks about his new, sophisticated fabric collection at Kravet. Every license relationship wants Barclay to push to the next level. Barclay discusses what he has coming in 2020with Jaipur. Barclay has recently celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of his business. His next book could be out within the next year. Barclay discusses the real estate revenue stream that he has recently added to his corporation. How his whole licensing empire has grown organically to where it is today. Some tips for capitalizing on licensing opportunities. A lot of hard work goes into Barclay's licensing partnerships. Barclay discusses the kinds of people he has to sell to. Barclay informs everything he does with the very same thought processes he uses to manage his very large design firm. Barclay's company has been built on good personal relationships and he promotes from within. Learning to run a business well. Barclay was raised in a sales environment. His parents were both salespeople. Managing with kindness, not fear. Some things to consider when thinking of growing your business. Barclay shares his thoughts about sharing, caring, and supporting charities, and his mechanisms for doing it. Barclay explains why e-commerce is the most difficult revenue stream. Previous Episode Mentioned: Nate Berkus #433 Links: Barclay Butera info@luannnigara.com My Doma Studio: A Well designed Business   Tue, 04 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Barclay Butera: 25 Years of Beautiful Design full 507 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! On today’s show, the creative force behind the Barclay Butera Design Firm, joins us on the show for the second time on the podcast. We pick up with Barclay today, where we left off with him in our previous conversation in episode # 122. He... Welcome! On today’s show, the creative force behind the Barclay Butera Design Firm, joins us on the show for the second time on the podcast. We pick up with Barclay today, where we left off with him in our previous conversation in episode # 122. He talks to us about his corporation, how it has changed, how he vets potential licensing partners, and what his responsibilities are, in terms of his relationships with his licensing partners. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what Barclay has to share. Barclay has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm since 1994, and he is well-known for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal-chic interiors. He has showrooms in New Port Beach, California, Corona Del Mar, California, and Park City, Utah. Apart from his thriving interior design business, Barclay is also a stand-out leader in our industry for developing and earning licensing agreements. His licensing partners include Kravet, Jaipur, Bradburn Home Lighting, Castell Outdoor Furniture, Eastern Accents, Leftbank Art, Lexington Home Brands, Mirror Image, Napa Home and Garden, and many others. Barclay also has a long list of esteemed press and media publication credentials. Tune in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: Barclay talks about his new, sophisticated fabric collection at Kravet. Every license relationship wants Barclay to push to the next level. Barclay discusses what he has coming in 2020with Jaipur. Barclay has recently celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of his business. His next book could be out within the next year. Barclay discusses the real estate revenue stream that he has recently added to his corporation. How his whole licensing empire has grown organically to where it is today. Some tips for capitalizing on licensing opportunities. A lot of hard work goes into Barclay's licensing partnerships. Barclay discusses the kinds of people he has to sell to. Barclay informs everything he does with the very same thought processes he uses to manage his very large design firm. Barclay's company has been built on good personal relationships and he promotes from within. Learning to run a business well. Barclay was raised in a sales environment. His parents were both salespeople. Managing with kindness, not fear. Some things to consider when thinking of growing your business. Barclay shares his thoughts about sharing, caring, and supporting charities, and his mechanisms for doing it. Barclay explains why e-commerce is the most difficult revenue stream. Previous Episode Mentioned: Nate Berkus #433 Links: Barclay Butera info@luannnigara.com My Doma Studio: A Well designed Business   Welcome! On today’s show, the creative force behind the Barclay Butera Design Firm, joins us on the show for the second time on the podcast. We pick up with Barclay today, where we left off with him in our previous conversation in episode # 122. He talks to us about his corporation, how it has changed, how he vets potential licensing partners, and what his responsibilities are, in terms of his relationships with his licensing partners. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what Barclay has to share.

Barclay has been the creative force behind his prestigious design firm since 1994, and he is well-known for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal-chic interiors. He has showrooms in New Port Beach, California, Corona Del Mar, California, and Park City, Utah.

Apart from his thriving interior design business, Barclay is also a stand-out leader in our industry for developing and earning licensing agreements. His licensing partners include Kravet, Jaipur, Bradburn Home Lighting, Castell Outdoor Furniture, Eastern Accents, Leftbank Art, Lexington Home Brands, Mirror Image, Napa Home and Garden, and many others. Barclay also has a long list of esteemed press and media publication credentials. Tune in today, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Barclay talks about his new, sophisticated fabric collection at Kravet.
  • Every license relationship wants Barclay to push to the next level.
  • Barclay discusses what he has coming in 2020with Jaipur.
  • Barclay has recently celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of his business.
  • His next book could be out within the next year.
  • Barclay discusses the real estate revenue stream that he has recently added to his corporation.
  • How his whole licensing empire has grown organically to where it is today.
  • Some tips for capitalizing on licensing opportunities.
  • A lot of hard work goes into Barclay's licensing partnerships.
  • Barclay discusses the kinds of people he has to sell to.
  • Barclay informs everything he does with the very same thought processes he uses to manage his very large design firm.
  • Barclay's company has been built on good personal relationships and he promotes from within.
  • Learning to run a business well.
  • Barclay was raised in a sales environment. His parents were both salespeople.
  • Managing with kindness, not fear.
  • Some things to consider when thinking of growing your business.
  • Barclay shares his thoughts about sharing, caring, and supporting charities, and his mechanisms for doing it.
  • Barclay explains why e-commerce is the most difficult revenue stream.

Previous Episode Mentioned:

Nate Berkus #433

Links:

Barclay Butera

info@luannnigara.com

My Doma Studio: A Well designed Business

 

]]> 4695 no 506: Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/506-power-talk-friday-natalie-norcross-a-design-partnership Welcome! We have Natalie Norcross, the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership, back on the show today. (She was previously in episode #162.) Natalie started her career as an interior designer. She then built a highly successful residential and hospitality design firm, and after she sold it in 2008, she was repeatedly approached by interior design and architectural firms to assist them with their marketing and business development. And this was how A Design Partnership was born. In today's episode, Natalie talks about the four areas you need to focus on when going after press for your design firm. She also discusses how to make PR more accessible to designers, and she shares her strategies for goal setting, running her firm, and achieving success. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what this #smartlady has to share! A Design Partnership has grown to become a dynamic group of experts who are passionate about helping clients transform their brands and evolve their businesses. From content curators to data-obsessed experts, Natalie leads a dynamic team of design-savvy people who know the industry, love their craft, and are fanatical about helping brands grow. Natalie has more than nineteen years of experience, working for interior designers, architects, builders, developers, and hotel and home brands. Her firm has a proven track record of driving exposure and placements through their PR. Natalie is an Official Member of Forbes Agency Council as well as a regular speaker and panelist in both the communications and design industries. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Having systems in place will allow you to sell your business. How Natalie's agency was born. Systems lead to success. Locking things down and getting things organized in your business. Focus on your goals to achieve your dreams. Ninety days of intention. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Success is all about service. Natalie talks about her superpower. Natalie describes her wonderful team. Working with success metric for each client. Accountability is a great mirror. Developing a growth mindset and surrounding yourself with positive people. Everything in your life is figure-outable. Some advice about PR. Great tips for getting press! Getting published with Interior Design PR in 2020. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Natalie Norcross 1st show #162 Ren Miller #12 Ashley Hotham Cox #321 Amy Flurry #108, #323 Alex Gourlay # 447 Links: Website: A Design Partnership Instagram: A Design Partnership Pinterest: A Design Partnership Facebook: A Design Partnership New Launch: Interior Design PR   Fri, 31 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Natalie Norcross: A Design Partnership full 506 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We have Natalie Norcross, the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership, back on the show today. (She was previously in episode #162.) Natalie started her career as an interior designer. She then built a highly successful residential and... Welcome! We have Natalie Norcross, the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership, back on the show today. (She was previously in episode #162.) Natalie started her career as an interior designer. She then built a highly successful residential and hospitality design firm, and after she sold it in 2008, she was repeatedly approached by interior design and architectural firms to assist them with their marketing and business development. And this was how A Design Partnership was born. In today's episode, Natalie talks about the four areas you need to focus on when going after press for your design firm. She also discusses how to make PR more accessible to designers, and she shares her strategies for goal setting, running her firm, and achieving success. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what this #smartlady has to share! A Design Partnership has grown to become a dynamic group of experts who are passionate about helping clients transform their brands and evolve their businesses. From content curators to data-obsessed experts, Natalie leads a dynamic team of design-savvy people who know the industry, love their craft, and are fanatical about helping brands grow. Natalie has more than nineteen years of experience, working for interior designers, architects, builders, developers, and hotel and home brands. Her firm has a proven track record of driving exposure and placements through their PR. Natalie is an Official Member of Forbes Agency Council as well as a regular speaker and panelist in both the communications and design industries. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Having systems in place will allow you to sell your business. How Natalie's agency was born. Systems lead to success. Locking things down and getting things organized in your business. Focus on your goals to achieve your dreams. Ninety days of intention. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Success is all about service. Natalie talks about her superpower. Natalie describes her wonderful team. Working with success metric for each client. Accountability is a great mirror. Developing a growth mindset and surrounding yourself with positive people. Everything in your life is figure-outable. Some advice about PR. Great tips for getting press! Getting published with Interior Design PR in 2020. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Natalie Norcross 1st show #162 Ren Miller #12 Ashley Hotham Cox #321 Amy Flurry #108, #323 Alex Gourlay # 447 Links: Website: A Design Partnership Instagram: A Design Partnership Pinterest: A Design Partnership Facebook: A Design Partnership New Launch: Interior Design PR   Welcome! We have Natalie Norcross, the CEO and Founder of A Design Partnership, back on the show today. (She was previously in episode #162.) Natalie started her career as an interior designer. She then built a highly successful residential and hospitality design firm, and after she sold it in 2008, she was repeatedly approached by interior design and architectural firms to assist them with their marketing and business development. And this was how A Design Partnership was born. In today's episode, Natalie talks about the four areas you need to focus on when going after press for your design firm. She also discusses how to make PR more accessible to designers, and she shares her strategies for goal setting, running her firm, and achieving success. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what this #smartlady has to share!

A Design Partnership has grown to become a dynamic group of experts who are passionate about helping clients transform their brands and evolve their businesses. From content curators to data-obsessed experts, Natalie leads a dynamic team of design-savvy people who know the industry, love their craft, and are fanatical about helping brands grow.

Natalie has more than nineteen years of experience, working for interior designers, architects, builders, developers, and hotel and home brands. Her firm has a proven track record of driving exposure and placements through their PR. Natalie is an Official Member of Forbes Agency Council as well as a regular speaker and panelist in both the communications and design industries. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Having systems in place will allow you to sell your business.
  • How Natalie's agency was born.
  • Systems lead to success.
  • Locking things down and getting things organized in your business.
  • Focus on your goals to achieve your dreams.
  • Ninety days of intention.
  • Focus on becoming the best version of yourself.
  • Success is all about service.
  • Natalie talks about her superpower.
  • Natalie describes her wonderful team.
  • Working with success metric for each client.
  • Accountability is a great mirror.
  • Developing a growth mindset and surrounding yourself with positive people.
  • Everything in your life is figure-outable.
  • Some advice about PR.
  • Great tips for getting press!
  • Getting published with Interior Design PR in 2020.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Natalie Norcross 1st show #162

Ren Miller #12

Ashley Hotham Cox #321

Amy Flurry #108, #323

Alex Gourlay # 447

Links:

Website: A Design Partnership

Instagram: A Design Partnership

Pinterest: A Design Partnership

Facebook: A Design Partnership

New Launch: Interior Design PR

 

]]> 4543 no 505: Eric Ross: His Process for Selling Accessories and the Reveal Install http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/505-eric-ross-his-process-for-selling-accessories-and-the-reveal-install Welcome to our special bonus show! Today, as promised, we will be sharing our conversation with Eric Ross about his business philosophy, his process for selling accessories, and the way he manages his reveal install day. Eric's process is unique and very unusual. Be sure to listen in, to hear what he has to share. Eric has been a professional decorator for more than twenty years. Although his preferred design style is traditional, he listens to his clients, to help them discover what they love, and what they respond to because he believes that everyone's home should represent who they are on their best day. Tune in today, to get some great advice from Eric! Show Highlights: Eric doesn't deliver a project piecemeal. He only reveals it when it's ready. Eric takes risks when making purchases for his clients but they seldom ask to return items. It is important to look at what you're trying to achieve, and the value you're bringing to people, and stick to that. Know that your job is to make things beautiful and if something gets returned you have still done your job. Eric loves to wow people at the install. People who appreciate Eric's value and want a beautiful home will be willing to pay the price he's asking. It's Eric's job to design a room to completion. It's the client's job to decide on the budget. The designer needs to learn what makes the client tick. Links: Website: Eric Ross Interiors Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party     Wed, 29 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Eric Ross: His Process for Selling Accessories and the Reveal Install full 505 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to our special bonus show! Today, as promised, we will be sharing our conversation with Eric Ross about his business philosophy, his process for selling accessories, and the way he manages his reveal install day. Eric's process is unique and... Welcome to our special bonus show! Today, as promised, we will be sharing our conversation with Eric Ross about his business philosophy, his process for selling accessories, and the way he manages his reveal install day. Eric's process is unique and very unusual. Be sure to listen in, to hear what he has to share. Eric has been a professional decorator for more than twenty years. Although his preferred design style is traditional, he listens to his clients, to help them discover what they love, and what they respond to because he believes that everyone's home should represent who they are on their best day. Tune in today, to get some great advice from Eric! Show Highlights: Eric doesn't deliver a project piecemeal. He only reveals it when it's ready. Eric takes risks when making purchases for his clients but they seldom ask to return items. It is important to look at what you're trying to achieve, and the value you're bringing to people, and stick to that. Know that your job is to make things beautiful and if something gets returned you have still done your job. Eric loves to wow people at the install. People who appreciate Eric's value and want a beautiful home will be willing to pay the price he's asking. It's Eric's job to design a room to completion. It's the client's job to decide on the budget. The designer needs to learn what makes the client tick. Links: Website: Eric Ross Interiors Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party     Welcome to our special bonus show! Today, as promised, we will be sharing our conversation with Eric Ross about his business philosophy, his process for selling accessories, and the way he manages his reveal install day. Eric's process is unique and very unusual. Be sure to listen in, to hear what he has to share.

Eric has been a professional decorator for more than twenty years. Although his preferred design style is traditional, he listens to his clients, to help them discover what they love, and what they respond to because he believes that everyone's home should represent who they are on their best day. Tune in today, to get some great advice from Eric!

Show Highlights:

  • Eric doesn't deliver a project piecemeal. He only reveals it when it's ready.
  • Eric takes risks when making purchases for his clients but they seldom ask to return items.
  • It is important to look at what you're trying to achieve, and the value you're bringing to people, and stick to that.
  • Know that your job is to make things beautiful and if something gets returned you have still done your job.
  • Eric loves to wow people at the install.
  • People who appreciate Eric's value and want a beautiful home will be willing to pay the price he's asking.
  • It's Eric's job to design a room to completion. It's the client's job to decide on the budget.
  • The designer needs to learn what makes the client tick.

Links:

Website: Eric Ross Interiors

Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors

Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors

Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party

 

 

]]> 1049 no 504: Eric Ross: Operating His Design Firm Like a Retail Store http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/-504-eric-ross-operating-his-design-firm-like-a-retail-store Welcome! Today, Eric Ross joins us on the show. Eric is a charming southern gentleman and a well-experienced design professional. He is also a seasoned businessman who has figured out how to run his firm in a unique way that really works for him. In today's episode, he describes how he runs his private interior design studio like a retail store. He explains that he no longer feels the need to change, apologize or adjust the way he works to conform to a client’s expectations. Eric knows himself well, he understands his passions, and he is very clear about what he will and will not do. Be sure to listen in today, to find about his very interesting business model. Eric is from Nashville. He has been in love with the traditional living design style since he was a child. He has more than twenty years of design experience and his work has been published in Traditional Home, Southern Style, Southern Lady, The Cottage Journal, as well as in many other publications. Eric's passion is to fan the flame of traditional decorating with a deeply Southern esthetic. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Eric explains what he means when he says that he is running his design firm like a store without a storefront. What the decorating track of Eric's business is all about. Eric's margins are hefty, just like those in a storefront, and all of his design services are included in that pricing. The way that Eric educates his clients about his philosophy and the way he works. Talking about transparency. People will happily pay Eric for his product rather than his time. Trust is a key issue. Eric's business model allows him to have total control over the whole process. Eric's advice is to start small with clients. It makes your business more manageable. The biggest motivator for Eric is seeing the result of what he has created. Eric's qualifying process for his new clients. Eric explains why he does not do discounts. The opportunities you're losing by being overworked. Eric's goal is to monetize his passion. Our industry is too high-touch to make it high volume. It's okay to mark up because of the value you add to the project. You don't have to explain your "no". Eric has a new book out, called Enduring Southern Homes. Links: Website: Eric Ross Interiors Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party     Tue, 28 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Eric Ross: Operating His Design Firm Like a Retail Store full 504 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Eric Ross joins us on the show. Eric is a charming southern gentleman and a well-experienced design professional. He is also a seasoned businessman who has figured out how to run his firm in a unique way that really works for him. In... Welcome! Today, Eric Ross joins us on the show. Eric is a charming southern gentleman and a well-experienced design professional. He is also a seasoned businessman who has figured out how to run his firm in a unique way that really works for him. In today's episode, he describes how he runs his private interior design studio like a retail store. He explains that he no longer feels the need to change, apologize or adjust the way he works to conform to a client’s expectations. Eric knows himself well, he understands his passions, and he is very clear about what he will and will not do. Be sure to listen in today, to find about his very interesting business model. Eric is from Nashville. He has been in love with the traditional living design style since he was a child. He has more than twenty years of design experience and his work has been published in Traditional Home, Southern Style, Southern Lady, The Cottage Journal, as well as in many other publications. Eric's passion is to fan the flame of traditional decorating with a deeply Southern esthetic. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Eric explains what he means when he says that he is running his design firm like a store without a storefront. What the decorating track of Eric's business is all about. Eric's margins are hefty, just like those in a storefront, and all of his design services are included in that pricing. The way that Eric educates his clients about his philosophy and the way he works. Talking about transparency. People will happily pay Eric for his product rather than his time. Trust is a key issue. Eric's business model allows him to have total control over the whole process. Eric's advice is to start small with clients. It makes your business more manageable. The biggest motivator for Eric is seeing the result of what he has created. Eric's qualifying process for his new clients. Eric explains why he does not do discounts. The opportunities you're losing by being overworked. Eric's goal is to monetize his passion. Our industry is too high-touch to make it high volume. It's okay to mark up because of the value you add to the project. You don't have to explain your "no". Eric has a new book out, called Enduring Southern Homes. Links: Website: Eric Ross Interiors Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party     Welcome! Today, Eric Ross joins us on the show. Eric is a charming southern gentleman and a well-experienced design professional. He is also a seasoned businessman who has figured out how to run his firm in a unique way that really works for him. In today's episode, he describes how he runs his private interior design studio like a retail store. He explains that he no longer feels the need to change, apologize or adjust the way he works to conform to a client’s expectations. Eric knows himself well, he understands his passions, and he is very clear about what he will and will not do. Be sure to listen in today, to find about his very interesting business model.

Eric is from Nashville. He has been in love with the traditional living design style since he was a child. He has more than twenty years of design experience and his work has been published in Traditional Home, Southern Style, Southern Lady, The Cottage Journal, as well as in many other publications. Eric's passion is to fan the flame of traditional decorating with a deeply Southern esthetic. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Eric explains what he means when he says that he is running his design firm like a store without a storefront.
  • What the decorating track of Eric's business is all about.
  • Eric's margins are hefty, just like those in a storefront, and all of his design services are included in that pricing.
  • The way that Eric educates his clients about his philosophy and the way he works.
  • Talking about transparency.
  • People will happily pay Eric for his product rather than his time.
  • Trust is a key issue.
  • Eric's business model allows him to have total control over the whole process.
  • Eric's advice is to start small with clients. It makes your business more manageable.
  • The biggest motivator for Eric is seeing the result of what he has created.
  • Eric's qualifying process for his new clients.
  • Eric explains why he does not do discounts.
  • The opportunities you're losing by being overworked.
  • Eric's goal is to monetize his passion.
  • Our industry is too high-touch to make it high volume.
  • It's okay to mark up because of the value you add to the project.
  • You don't have to explain your "no".
  • Eric has a new book out, called Enduring Southern Homes.

Links:

Website: Eric Ross Interiors

Facebook: Eric Ross Interiors

Instagram: Eric Ross Interiors

Pinterest: Eric Ross Interiors

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

A Well-Designed Business® 4th Birthday Party

 

 

]]> 3908 no 503: Power Talk Friday: Traci Reuter: Divine Social; The Power of Paid Ads on Social Media http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/503-power-talk-friday-traci-reuter-divine-social-the-power-of-paid-ads-on-social-media Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Traci Reuter, the founder, and CEO of Divine Social joins us today. Traci loves to uplift and inspire business owners, entrepreneurs, or anyone with an amazing idea! She has a knack for uncovering just the right strategy for everyone and then helping them map things out to make the execution simple and easy. In today's episode, Traci shares tons of ideas, strategies, and tips for paid marketing on social media. Be sure to listen in to find out more about the paid advertising aspect of Instagram and Facebook.  Traci has twenty-five years of experience in sales and marketing. She is passionate about supporting businesses and growing their brands through real and meaningful social media advertising. She has a special gift for mapping out the perfect strategy to get a brand in front of the right people at the right time. Traci truly knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. She also co-hosts the Social Media Happy Hour podcast with Dawn Marks. Tune in today, to learn what she has to share. Show Highlights: The power of paid advertising on social media. Traci explains how she started with her business. Traci gives her team incredible training. Sometimes, it takes just a tiny thing to make all the difference in your profitability. Begin with the end in mind. The customer journey. Never spend money on ads. Rather invest in your business. Consideration is not the same as pre-purchase. Why Traci is against boosting Facebook posts. It takes time to build up enough trust to invest in advertising. Thinking about what to put your ads, to get your prospects to want to know more. Branding is about telling your story so that business comes out of it. Creating engagement with your prospects. Building audiences of people who have watched your Facebook video. Traci shares the EDIE formula for creating a great video. All your ads must be congruent with your end-goal. Video out-performs everything else on social media. What to do if you only have the budget to run one thing. The Three Pillars to Successful Social Ads. Should you focus on Facebook or Instagram? Bio: Traci Reuter is the founder/CEO of Divine Social. She’s passionate about supporting businesses in growing their brands through authentic, meaningful social advertising. Traci has an uncanny gift for looking at any business’s mission, vision, and message, and mapping out the right strategy to get their brand in front of the right people at the right time. With 25 years of experience in sales and marketing, Traci knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. Combined with her tactical knowledge of social advertising, Traci can write the recipe for any brand’s success, and she would love to share some of her greatest secrets behind mapping out your own powerful social advertising strategy. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Links: Website: Divine Social Instagram: Traci Reuter Facebook: Traci Reuter Social Youtube: Traci Reuter Please take advantage of Traci’s gifts: For the 15-minute audit, if you are spending more than $3000 a month on social media marketing, email Traci at info@divinesocial.com. For Traci's free mini-course, 3 Pillars To Successful Social Ads, go to A Well Designed Business Big announcement - The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet’s new workspace center at 200 Lexington NY NY on March 19, 2020, at 5:30 pm Book mentioned: Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey   Fri, 24 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Traci Reuter: Divine Social; The Power of Paid Ads on Social Media full 503 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Traci Reuter, the founder, and CEO of Divine Social joins us today. Traci loves to uplift and inspire business owners, entrepreneurs, or anyone with an amazing idea! She has a knack for uncovering just the right strategy... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Traci Reuter, the founder, and CEO of Divine Social joins us today. Traci loves to uplift and inspire business owners, entrepreneurs, or anyone with an amazing idea! She has a knack for uncovering just the right strategy for everyone and then helping them map things out to make the execution simple and easy. In today's episode, Traci shares tons of ideas, strategies, and tips for paid marketing on social media. Be sure to listen in to find out more about the paid advertising aspect of Instagram and Facebook.  Traci has twenty-five years of experience in sales and marketing. She is passionate about supporting businesses and growing their brands through real and meaningful social media advertising. She has a special gift for mapping out the perfect strategy to get a brand in front of the right people at the right time. Traci truly knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. She also co-hosts the Social Media Happy Hour podcast with Dawn Marks. Tune in today, to learn what she has to share. Show Highlights: The power of paid advertising on social media. Traci explains how she started with her business. Traci gives her team incredible training. Sometimes, it takes just a tiny thing to make all the difference in your profitability. Begin with the end in mind. The customer journey. Never spend money on ads. Rather invest in your business. Consideration is not the same as pre-purchase. Why Traci is against boosting Facebook posts. It takes time to build up enough trust to invest in advertising. Thinking about what to put your ads, to get your prospects to want to know more. Branding is about telling your story so that business comes out of it. Creating engagement with your prospects. Building audiences of people who have watched your Facebook video. Traci shares the EDIE formula for creating a great video. All your ads must be congruent with your end-goal. Video out-performs everything else on social media. What to do if you only have the budget to run one thing. The Three Pillars to Successful Social Ads. Should you focus on Facebook or Instagram? Bio: Traci Reuter is the founder/CEO of Divine Social. She’s passionate about supporting businesses in growing their brands through authentic, meaningful social advertising. Traci has an uncanny gift for looking at any business’s mission, vision, and message, and mapping out the right strategy to get their brand in front of the right people at the right time. With 25 years of experience in sales and marketing, Traci knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. Combined with her tactical knowledge of social advertising, Traci can write the recipe for any brand’s success, and she would love to share some of her greatest secrets behind mapping out your own powerful social advertising strategy. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Links: Website: Divine Social Instagram: Traci Reuter Facebook: Traci Reuter Social Youtube: Traci Reuter Please take advantage of Traci’s gifts: For the 15-minute audit, if you are spending more than $3000 a month on social media marketing, email Traci at info@divinesocial.com. For Traci's free mini-course, 3 Pillars To Successful Social Ads, go to A Well Designed Business Big announcement - The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet’s new workspace center at 200 Lexington NY NY on March 19, 2020, at 5:30 pm Book mentioned: Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Traci Reuter, the founder, and CEO of Divine Social joins us today. Traci loves to uplift and inspire business owners, entrepreneurs, or anyone with an amazing idea! She has a knack for uncovering just the right strategy for everyone and then helping them map things out to make the execution simple and easy. In today's episode, Traci shares tons of ideas, strategies, and tips for paid marketing on social media. Be sure to listen in to find out more about the paid advertising aspect of Instagram and Facebook. 

Traci has twenty-five years of experience in sales and marketing. She is passionate about supporting businesses and growing their brands through real and meaningful social media advertising. She has a special gift for mapping out the perfect strategy to get a brand in front of the right people at the right time. Traci truly knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. She also co-hosts the Social Media Happy Hour podcast with Dawn Marks. Tune in today, to learn what she has to share.

Show Highlights:

  • The power of paid advertising on social media.
  • Traci explains how she started with her business.
  • Traci gives her team incredible training.
  • Sometimes, it takes just a tiny thing to make all the difference in your profitability.
  • Begin with the end in mind.
  • The customer journey.
  • Never spend money on ads. Rather invest in your business.
  • Consideration is not the same as pre-purchase.
  • Why Traci is against boosting Facebook posts.
  • It takes time to build up enough trust to invest in advertising.
  • Thinking about what to put your ads, to get your prospects to want to know more.
  • Branding is about telling your story so that business comes out of it.
  • Creating engagement with your prospects.
  • Building audiences of people who have watched your Facebook video.
  • Traci shares the EDIE formula for creating a great video.
  • All your ads must be congruent with your end-goal.
  • Video out-performs everything else on social media.
  • What to do if you only have the budget to run one thing.
  • The Three Pillars to Successful Social Ads.
  • Should you focus on Facebook or Instagram?

Bio:

Traci Reuter is the founder/CEO of Divine Social. She’s passionate about supporting businesses in growing their brands through authentic, meaningful social advertising. Traci has an uncanny gift for looking at any business’s mission, vision, and message, and mapping out the right strategy to get their brand in front of the right people at the right time. With 25 years of experience in sales and marketing, Traci knows her stuff when it comes to high-level marketing strategy. Combined with her tactical knowledge of social advertising, Traci can write the recipe for any brand’s success, and she would love to share some of her greatest secrets behind mapping out your own powerful social advertising strategy.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466

Links:

Website: Divine Social

Instagram: Traci Reuter

Facebook: Traci Reuter Social

Youtube: Traci Reuter

Please take advantage of Traci’s gifts:

For the 15-minute audit, if you are spending more than $3000 a month on social media marketing, email Traci at info@divinesocial.com.

For Traci's free mini-course, 3 Pillars To Successful Social Ads, go to A Well Designed Business

Big announcement - The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet’s new workspace center at 200 Lexington NY NY on March 19, 2020, at 5:30 pm

Book mentioned:

Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey

 

]]> 4335 no 502: Lisa Haude: Paradigm Design Group: Success Strategies to Run a Luxury Hospitality Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/502-lisa-haude-paradigm-design-group-success-strategies-to-run-a-luxury-hospitality-design Welcome! Today, we have Lisa Haude, of Paradigm Design Group, joining us! Lisa built her firm from ground zero to a firm with gross revenues exceeding fifty-million dollars. And she showed her relentless commitment by doing that the old-fashioned way, by calling on her contacts week after week. In today's episode, Lisa talks to us about how she runs her business, and she explains how all her success can be attributed to her commitment to delivering an exceptional project, regardless of the situation. Tune in today, to find out how planning to exceed your clients' expectations in every aspect of a project will always bring about a successful result.   As the lead designer and founder of Paradigm Design Group for the last fifteen years, Lisa Haude is an expert in livable luxury. She has built Paradigm Design Group into a hospitality design powerhouse. With projects ranging from The Roosevelt Waldorf Astoria in New Orleans to the award-winning Portland Marriott Downtown, to boutique hotels and numerous Hilton hotels across the United States, Lisa prides herself on her design versatility. Be sure to listen in today, to find out more about Lisa, and her work ethic, and her successful design firm. Show Highlights: Lisa spent time working at high-end hospitality firms, for architectural design firms, and in the hotel and hospitality industry, on the inside, on their design teams, before opening her firm. She talks to us about how this great learning experience informs the way she runs her firm. Lisa gives us some insight into the way her firm looks. Taking care of the details and all the moving pieces on multiple-million dollar projects. The way that Lisa's whole team collaborates to bring about an awesome project. Dealing with the documentation. Talking about accountability. The whole team is detail-oriented. Open discussions are vital for growing and improving. Taking responsibility, as a leader, for whatever happens with a project. Sometimes it's hard to find your humor when you're in the trenches. Some advice for landing and keep long-term hospitality accounts. Owning up if you mess up is very important. People like to do business with people who have similar ideals and values. Lisa has an amazing village of co-workers. How Lisa created her opportunities and made things happen when she started her firm. Lisa offers some awesome advice. Thinking outside the box to make things happen. The background and skills that Lisa looks for when hiring a junior designer. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Meryl Santopietro #40 Mikel Welch #297 Corey Damen Jenkins #127 Claire Jefford #237 Vanessa DeLeon #18 Links: Website: Paradigm Design Facebook: Paradigm Design Group Instagram: Paradigm Design Group The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet's new workshop center at 200 Lexington New York on March 19, 2020, at 5.30 pm. Use this link to RSVP -  Event Brite   Tue, 21 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Lisa Haude: Paradigm Design Group: Success Strategies to Run a Luxury Hospitality Design full 502 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we have Lisa Haude, of Paradigm Design Group, joining us! Lisa built her firm from ground zero to a firm with gross revenues exceeding fifty-million dollars. And she showed her relentless commitment by doing that the old-fashioned way,... Welcome! Today, we have Lisa Haude, of Paradigm Design Group, joining us! Lisa built her firm from ground zero to a firm with gross revenues exceeding fifty-million dollars. And she showed her relentless commitment by doing that the old-fashioned way, by calling on her contacts week after week. In today's episode, Lisa talks to us about how she runs her business, and she explains how all her success can be attributed to her commitment to delivering an exceptional project, regardless of the situation. Tune in today, to find out how planning to exceed your clients' expectations in every aspect of a project will always bring about a successful result.   As the lead designer and founder of Paradigm Design Group for the last fifteen years, Lisa Haude is an expert in livable luxury. She has built Paradigm Design Group into a hospitality design powerhouse. With projects ranging from The Roosevelt Waldorf Astoria in New Orleans to the award-winning Portland Marriott Downtown, to boutique hotels and numerous Hilton hotels across the United States, Lisa prides herself on her design versatility. Be sure to listen in today, to find out more about Lisa, and her work ethic, and her successful design firm. Show Highlights: Lisa spent time working at high-end hospitality firms, for architectural design firms, and in the hotel and hospitality industry, on the inside, on their design teams, before opening her firm. She talks to us about how this great learning experience informs the way she runs her firm. Lisa gives us some insight into the way her firm looks. Taking care of the details and all the moving pieces on multiple-million dollar projects. The way that Lisa's whole team collaborates to bring about an awesome project. Dealing with the documentation. Talking about accountability. The whole team is detail-oriented. Open discussions are vital for growing and improving. Taking responsibility, as a leader, for whatever happens with a project. Sometimes it's hard to find your humor when you're in the trenches. Some advice for landing and keep long-term hospitality accounts. Owning up if you mess up is very important. People like to do business with people who have similar ideals and values. Lisa has an amazing village of co-workers. How Lisa created her opportunities and made things happen when she started her firm. Lisa offers some awesome advice. Thinking outside the box to make things happen. The background and skills that Lisa looks for when hiring a junior designer. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Meryl Santopietro #40 Mikel Welch #297 Corey Damen Jenkins #127 Claire Jefford #237 Vanessa DeLeon #18 Links: Website: Paradigm Design Facebook: Paradigm Design Group Instagram: Paradigm Design Group The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet's new workshop center at 200 Lexington New York on March 19, 2020, at 5.30 pm. Use this link to RSVP -  Event Brite   Welcome! Today, we have Lisa Haude, of Paradigm Design Group, joining us! Lisa built her firm from ground zero to a firm with gross revenues exceeding fifty-million dollars. And she showed her relentless commitment by doing that the old-fashioned way, by calling on her contacts week after week. In today's episode, Lisa talks to us about how she runs her business, and she explains how all her success can be attributed to her commitment to delivering an exceptional project, regardless of the situation. Tune in today, to find out how planning to exceed your clients' expectations in every aspect of a project will always bring about a successful result.  

As the lead designer and founder of Paradigm Design Group for the last fifteen years, Lisa Haude is an expert in livable luxury. She has built Paradigm Design Group into a hospitality design powerhouse. With projects ranging from The Roosevelt Waldorf Astoria in New Orleans to the award-winning Portland Marriott Downtown, to boutique hotels and numerous Hilton hotels across the United States, Lisa prides herself on her design versatility. Be sure to listen in today, to find out more about Lisa, and her work ethic, and her successful design firm.

Show Highlights:

  • Lisa spent time working at high-end hospitality firms, for architectural design firms, and in the hotel and hospitality industry, on the inside, on their design teams, before opening her firm. She talks to us about how this great learning experience informs the way she runs her firm.
  • Lisa gives us some insight into the way her firm looks.
  • Taking care of the details and all the moving pieces on multiple-million dollar projects.
  • The way that Lisa's whole team collaborates to bring about an awesome project.
  • Dealing with the documentation.
  • Talking about accountability.
  • The whole team is detail-oriented.
  • Open discussions are vital for growing and improving.
  • Taking responsibility, as a leader, for whatever happens with a project.
  • Sometimes it's hard to find your humor when you're in the trenches.
  • Some advice for landing and keep long-term hospitality accounts.
  • Owning up if you mess up is very important.
  • People like to do business with people who have similar ideals and values.
  • Lisa has an amazing village of co-workers.
  • How Lisa created her opportunities and made things happen when she started her firm.
  • Lisa offers some awesome advice.
  • Thinking outside the box to make things happen.
  • The background and skills that Lisa looks for when hiring a junior designer.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Meryl Santopietro #40

Mikel Welch #297

Corey Damen Jenkins #127

Claire Jefford #237

Vanessa DeLeon #18

Links:

Website: Paradigm Design

Facebook: Paradigm Design Group

Instagram: Paradigm Design Group

The 4th Birthday Party for the podcast will be at Kravet's new workshop center at 200 Lexington New York on March 19, 2020, at 5.30 pm. Use this link to RSVP -  Event Brite

 

]]> 3788 no 501: Power Talk Friday: Profit Planning and Tax Planning Tips for 6 and 7 Figure Firms http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/501-power-talk-friday-profit-planning-and-tax-planning-tips-for-6-and-7-figure-firms Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have one of our early guests back on the show. Diane Gardener, known as The Tax Coach (Episode #54) is back with us to talk about the specific niche of seven-figure interior design firms. Although LuAnn has done a lot of shows about getting a design business off the ground, she realized that she's done way fewer shows about what to do when you are in the seven-figure bracket. And there are very specific challenges that come with this area. When moving into the seven-figure bracket, business owners frequently experience higher expenses, cash flow problems, and higher taxes. So be sure to listen in today even if you're still a #babydesigner because LuAnn fully intends for you to become a seven-figure interior designer someday. Diane Gardner is a Certified Tax Coach, a Quilly award recipient, and a best-selling author whose expert planning approach has saved her clients over three-million dollars in taxes. Her expertise lies in the area of tax planning. And her goal is to make sure that successful entrepreneurs across the United States are paying the least amount of income tax that they can legally pay. She aims to save taxes, one business at a time, through the use of pro-active tax planning. Diane has been featured on popular podcasts such as CEO Warrior, For the Love of Money, Listen Money Matters, Investing in The U.S, Cashflow Ninja, SharkPrenuer, Wealth Formula and Profit Boss. Tune in today, to learn about what you need in your seven-figure business to mitigate risk, increase your profits, and legally decrease your taxes. Show Highlights: Diane is a certified Profit First coach. Planning ahead to pay less tax when moving into the seven-figure tax bracket. Increased income often means increased expenses. Becoming an active partner with your CPA or Business Coach. The tax planning strategies that seven-figure businesses need to implement to keep more money A great way to incentivize your people and lessen your tax load. It takes a different set of skills to run a bigger business. How to increase your cash flow to leverage growth from multi-six-figures to seven-figures. Diane explains how a tax coach can be your ultimate advocate and partner in growth. Doing an entity analysis for your business. An amazing strategy for saving money by investing in your own insurance company. Other guests mentioned in this show: Michele Williams #180, #395  Peter Lang # 349, #464  Diane Gardner was on the show before in episode #54 Links: Diane's website: Tax Coach 4 You Diane's offer: Planning guide for the new tax law vs old tax law. Diane’s Facebook handles:       @taxcoach4you @AdeptBusinessServices         Fri, 17 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Profit Planning and Tax Planning Tips for 6 and 7 Figure Firms full 501 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have one of our early guests back on the show. Diane Gardener, known as The Tax Coach (Episode #54) is back with us to talk about the specific niche of seven-figure interior design firms. Although LuAnn has done... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have one of our early guests back on the show. Diane Gardener, known as The Tax Coach (Episode #54) is back with us to talk about the specific niche of seven-figure interior design firms. Although LuAnn has done a lot of shows about getting a design business off the ground, she realized that she's done way fewer shows about what to do when you are in the seven-figure bracket. And there are very specific challenges that come with this area. When moving into the seven-figure bracket, business owners frequently experience higher expenses, cash flow problems, and higher taxes. So be sure to listen in today even if you're still a #babydesigner because LuAnn fully intends for you to become a seven-figure interior designer someday. Diane Gardner is a Certified Tax Coach, a Quilly award recipient, and a best-selling author whose expert planning approach has saved her clients over three-million dollars in taxes. Her expertise lies in the area of tax planning. And her goal is to make sure that successful entrepreneurs across the United States are paying the least amount of income tax that they can legally pay. She aims to save taxes, one business at a time, through the use of pro-active tax planning. Diane has been featured on popular podcasts such as CEO Warrior, For the Love of Money, Listen Money Matters, Investing in The U.S, Cashflow Ninja, SharkPrenuer, Wealth Formula and Profit Boss. Tune in today, to learn about what you need in your seven-figure business to mitigate risk, increase your profits, and legally decrease your taxes. Show Highlights: Diane is a certified Profit First coach. Planning ahead to pay less tax when moving into the seven-figure tax bracket. Increased income often means increased expenses. Becoming an active partner with your CPA or Business Coach. The tax planning strategies that seven-figure businesses need to implement to keep more money A great way to incentivize your people and lessen your tax load. It takes a different set of skills to run a bigger business. How to increase your cash flow to leverage growth from multi-six-figures to seven-figures. Diane explains how a tax coach can be your ultimate advocate and partner in growth. Doing an entity analysis for your business. An amazing strategy for saving money by investing in your own insurance company. Other guests mentioned in this show: Michele Williams #180, #395  Peter Lang # 349, #464  Diane Gardner was on the show before in episode #54 Links: Diane's website: Tax Coach 4 You Diane's offer: Planning guide for the new tax law vs old tax law. Diane’s Facebook handles:       @taxcoach4you @AdeptBusinessServices         Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have one of our early guests back on the show. Diane Gardener, known as The Tax Coach (Episode #54) is back with us to talk about the specific niche of seven-figure interior design firms. Although LuAnn has done a lot of shows about getting a design business off the ground, she realized that she's done way fewer shows about what to do when you are in the seven-figure bracket. And there are very specific challenges that come with this area. When moving into the seven-figure bracket, business owners frequently experience higher expenses, cash flow problems, and higher taxes. So be sure to listen in today even if you're still a #babydesigner because LuAnn fully intends for you to become a seven-figure interior designer someday.

Diane Gardner is a Certified Tax Coach, a Quilly award recipient, and a best-selling author whose expert planning approach has saved her clients over three-million dollars in taxes. Her expertise lies in the area of tax planning. And her goal is to make sure that successful entrepreneurs across the United States are paying the least amount of income tax that they can legally pay. She aims to save taxes, one business at a time, through the use of pro-active tax planning. Diane has been featured on popular podcasts such as CEO Warrior, For the Love of Money, Listen Money Matters, Investing in The U.S, Cashflow Ninja, SharkPrenuer, Wealth Formula and Profit Boss. Tune in today, to learn about what you need in your seven-figure business to mitigate risk, increase your profits, and legally decrease your taxes.

Show Highlights:

  • Diane is a certified Profit First coach.
  • Planning ahead to pay less tax when moving into the seven-figure tax bracket.
  • Increased income often means increased expenses.
  • Becoming an active partner with your CPA or Business Coach.
  • The tax planning strategies that seven-figure businesses need to implement to keep more money
  • A great way to incentivize your people and lessen your tax load.
  • It takes a different set of skills to run a bigger business.
  • How to increase your cash flow to leverage growth from multi-six-figures to seven-figures.
  • Diane explains how a tax coach can be your ultimate advocate and partner in growth.
  • Doing an entity analysis for your business.
  • An amazing strategy for saving money by investing in your own insurance company.

Other guests mentioned in this show:

Michele Williams #180, #395 

Peter Lang # 349, #464 

Diane Gardner was on the show before in episode #54

Links:

Diane's website: Tax Coach 4 You

Diane's offer: Planning guide for the new tax law vs old tax law.

Diane’s Facebook handles:       @taxcoach4you @AdeptBusinessServices  

 

 

 

]]> 3648 no 500: Episodes of A Well-Designed Business® - LuAnn's Aha Moments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/500-episodes-of-a-well-designed-business-luanns-aha-moments Welcome to the epic 500th episode of A Well-Designed Business! So far, it's been a wild ride, and we've fully enjoyed every minute of it! Even LuAnn, the consummate positive thinker, ever-optimistic dreamer, and earnest believer in the truth, could not foresee all the joy she has experienced, and the delightful connections she has made, because of this podcast! Join us today, for this truly memorable episode! Recently, LuAnn has been spending time reflecting on all the pleasure that this podcast has brought her. She's been thinking about all the people she's met, the invaluable relationships she's formed, the opportunities she's been given, and the ones she has helped to create through this podcast. She has also taken the time to break down the various business strategies she's used in running this platform. In today's episode, she shares the five things that she learned behind the scenes, from doing this show. Be sure to tune in today, to hear about the 5 Keys that LuAnn believes were essential for her to have in place, to allow for her calling to happen. Show Highlights: LuAnn talks about the 5 essential keys to success. Talking about passion. How LuAnn realized that she needed to do a podcast. Looking for something to light her up, back in 2013. Lessons learned from golf lessons, surfing lessons, and 46-mile bike rides. Never looking back, only ahead for what was to come. LuAnn shares her true passion. Even the hard days have been an absolute joy for LuAnn. Creating a business plan with cold, hard facts. Making clear decisions, based on facts and up-front agreements. Clarity creates calm and purpose because when you have a plan, you are more likely to get to where you want to be. Having an unrelenting, single-minded, and focused commitment to getting things done. Every business is always a work in progress. What you need, to be successful. Commitment is showing up on schedule, being prepared to do what you said you would do, and doing the work. What it takes, to run a village. LuAnn has been blessed by the most amazing village of the brands who believe in this show. It has been through the village of guests, sponsors, co-authors, and listeners that LuAnn has grown, and learned so much, in the last four years. Some valuable lessons were learned from doing LuAnn Live. Paying other people to deal with the details and fill in the gaps. Having the support of our amazingly gifted podcast village. The sad loss of a dear friend, Liza Jones. Treasuring the support of all her co-authors. Make someone's day, and decide to be excellent! Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424 Sarah Daniele #91, #119, and #177 Jenny and Greg Madden #332 Corey Damon Jenkins #388 Eileen Hahn #363 Wendy Glaister #386 Links: LuAnn Nigara My Doma Studio Kravet Article Kirsch Revel Woods   Tue, 14 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Episodes of A Well-Designed Business® - LuAnn's Aha Moments full 500 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the epic 500th episode of A Well-Designed Business! So far, it's been a wild ride, and we've fully enjoyed every minute of it! Even LuAnn, the consummate positive thinker, ever-optimistic dreamer, and earnest believer in the truth, could... Welcome to the epic 500th episode of A Well-Designed Business! So far, it's been a wild ride, and we've fully enjoyed every minute of it! Even LuAnn, the consummate positive thinker, ever-optimistic dreamer, and earnest believer in the truth, could not foresee all the joy she has experienced, and the delightful connections she has made, because of this podcast! Join us today, for this truly memorable episode! Recently, LuAnn has been spending time reflecting on all the pleasure that this podcast has brought her. She's been thinking about all the people she's met, the invaluable relationships she's formed, the opportunities she's been given, and the ones she has helped to create through this podcast. She has also taken the time to break down the various business strategies she's used in running this platform. In today's episode, she shares the five things that she learned behind the scenes, from doing this show. Be sure to tune in today, to hear about the 5 Keys that LuAnn believes were essential for her to have in place, to allow for her calling to happen. Show Highlights: LuAnn talks about the 5 essential keys to success. Talking about passion. How LuAnn realized that she needed to do a podcast. Looking for something to light her up, back in 2013. Lessons learned from golf lessons, surfing lessons, and 46-mile bike rides. Never looking back, only ahead for what was to come. LuAnn shares her true passion. Even the hard days have been an absolute joy for LuAnn. Creating a business plan with cold, hard facts. Making clear decisions, based on facts and up-front agreements. Clarity creates calm and purpose because when you have a plan, you are more likely to get to where you want to be. Having an unrelenting, single-minded, and focused commitment to getting things done. Every business is always a work in progress. What you need, to be successful. Commitment is showing up on schedule, being prepared to do what you said you would do, and doing the work. What it takes, to run a village. LuAnn has been blessed by the most amazing village of the brands who believe in this show. It has been through the village of guests, sponsors, co-authors, and listeners that LuAnn has grown, and learned so much, in the last four years. Some valuable lessons were learned from doing LuAnn Live. Paying other people to deal with the details and fill in the gaps. Having the support of our amazingly gifted podcast village. The sad loss of a dear friend, Liza Jones. Treasuring the support of all her co-authors. Make someone's day, and decide to be excellent! Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424 Sarah Daniele #91, #119, and #177 Jenny and Greg Madden #332 Corey Damon Jenkins #388 Eileen Hahn #363 Wendy Glaister #386 Links: LuAnn Nigara My Doma Studio Kravet Article Kirsch Revel Woods   Welcome to the epic 500th episode of A Well-Designed Business! So far, it's been a wild ride, and we've fully enjoyed every minute of it! Even LuAnn, the consummate positive thinker, ever-optimistic dreamer, and earnest believer in the truth, could not foresee all the joy she has experienced, and the delightful connections she has made, because of this podcast! Join us today, for this truly memorable episode!

Recently, LuAnn has been spending time reflecting on all the pleasure that this podcast has brought her. She's been thinking about all the people she's met, the invaluable relationships she's formed, the opportunities she's been given, and the ones she has helped to create through this podcast. She has also taken the time to break down the various business strategies she's used in running this platform. In today's episode, she shares the five things that she learned behind the scenes, from doing this show. Be sure to tune in today, to hear about the 5 Keys that LuAnn believes were essential for her to have in place, to allow for her calling to happen.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn talks about the 5 essential keys to success.
  • Talking about passion.
  • How LuAnn realized that she needed to do a podcast.
  • Looking for something to light her up, back in 2013.
  • Lessons learned from golf lessons, surfing lessons, and 46-mile bike rides.
  • Never looking back, only ahead for what was to come.
  • LuAnn shares her true passion.
  • Even the hard days have been an absolute joy for LuAnn.
  • Creating a business plan with cold, hard facts.
  • Making clear decisions, based on facts and up-front agreements.
  • Clarity creates calm and purpose because when you have a plan, you are more likely to get to where you want to be.
  • Having an unrelenting, single-minded, and focused commitment to getting things done.
  • Every business is always a work in progress.
  • What you need, to be successful.
  • Commitment is showing up on schedule, being prepared to do what you said you would do, and doing the work.
  • What it takes, to run a village.
  • LuAnn has been blessed by the most amazing village of the brands who believe in this show.
  • It has been through the village of guests, sponsors, co-authors, and listeners that LuAnn has grown, and learned so much, in the last four years.
  • Some valuable lessons were learned from doing LuAnn Live.
  • Paying other people to deal with the details and fill in the gaps.
  • Having the support of our amazingly gifted podcast village.
  • The sad loss of a dear friend, Liza Jones.
  • Treasuring the support of all her co-authors.
  • Make someone's day, and decide to be excellent!

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466

Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467

Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424

Sarah Daniele #91, #119, and #177

Jenny and Greg Madden #332

Corey Damon Jenkins #388

Eileen Hahn #363

Wendy Glaister #386

Links:

LuAnn Nigara

My Doma Studio

Kravet

Article

Kirsch

Revel Woods

 

]]> 3736 no 499: Power Talk Friday: Shauna Lynn Simon: Passion, Purpose, and Pink Hair - The Secret to My Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/499-power-talk-friday-shauna-lynn-simon-passion-purpose-and-pink-hair-the-secret-to-my-success Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us today. She is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, and she's also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. Shauna Lynn is seriously committed to helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve success in their businesses. In today's episode, she explains how to become unforgettable to your clients. She shares several ways to make yourself memorable so that you're always the first person that your clients think of when they need an interior design or a window treatment service. Be sure to listen in, to find out what this exceptional businesswoman has to share with you today. You're really going to love her! Shauna Lynn Simon is dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships between like-minded professionals. She partners with CEOs, executives, and solo-preneurs to grow their brands. Shauna Lynn has built a thriving home staging and design business. She has designed a comprehensive and systematic program for teaching the technical and the business side of the home staging world. She also offers core and continuing education for home staging professionals through Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Making yourself stand out uniquely. It's all about understanding who you are and owning it. Shauna Lynn's company has been branded with the color pink. You need to know who you are and what you represent. People often forget the names of people they have worked with before. You need to find something to make yourself memorable. Owning every part of your image. You have to be one in a million. Figuring out what makes you the best. What fires up your passion? Finding your purpose by looking at what makes you happy. Positioning yourself well in the marketplace. Give people a reason to remember you. Figure out your "thing" is and steer yourself in that direction. Everything you do should reflect your business in some way. Creating an effective About You page. Bio: Shauna Lynn Simon is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, committed to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve success in their business. After building a thriving home staging and design business, she founded Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, a comprehensive and systematic program providing core and continuing education training for home staging professionals. Analyst turned home stager, Shauna Lynn combines creativity with logic and problem solving to achieve incredible results. Dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships, Shauna Lynn partners with CEOs, executives and solo-preneurs in the creative field to grow their personal and professional brands, providing real-world insights and actionable tips for conquering their business dreams. Links: Website: Beyond The Stage Homes Facebook: Beyond The Stage Homes YouTube Channel Pinterest: BTSHomes Exciting Windows IWCE PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference - phs20.com Goodies Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shauna Lynn Simon # 76, #84, and #102 Moniomi Design #193 Dane Austin #457 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466     Fri, 10 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Shauna Lynn Simon: Passion, Purpose, and Pink Hair - The Secret to My Success full 499 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us today. She is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, and she's also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us today. She is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, and she's also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. Shauna Lynn is seriously committed to helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve success in their businesses. In today's episode, she explains how to become unforgettable to your clients. She shares several ways to make yourself memorable so that you're always the first person that your clients think of when they need an interior design or a window treatment service. Be sure to listen in, to find out what this exceptional businesswoman has to share with you today. You're really going to love her! Shauna Lynn Simon is dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships between like-minded professionals. She partners with CEOs, executives, and solo-preneurs to grow their brands. Shauna Lynn has built a thriving home staging and design business. She has designed a comprehensive and systematic program for teaching the technical and the business side of the home staging world. She also offers core and continuing education for home staging professionals through Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Making yourself stand out uniquely. It's all about understanding who you are and owning it. Shauna Lynn's company has been branded with the color pink. You need to know who you are and what you represent. People often forget the names of people they have worked with before. You need to find something to make yourself memorable. Owning every part of your image. You have to be one in a million. Figuring out what makes you the best. What fires up your passion? Finding your purpose by looking at what makes you happy. Positioning yourself well in the marketplace. Give people a reason to remember you. Figure out your "thing" is and steer yourself in that direction. Everything you do should reflect your business in some way. Creating an effective About You page. Bio: Shauna Lynn Simon is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, committed to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve success in their business. After building a thriving home staging and design business, she founded Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, a comprehensive and systematic program providing core and continuing education training for home staging professionals. Analyst turned home stager, Shauna Lynn combines creativity with logic and problem solving to achieve incredible results. Dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships, Shauna Lynn partners with CEOs, executives and solo-preneurs in the creative field to grow their personal and professional brands, providing real-world insights and actionable tips for conquering their business dreams. Links: Website: Beyond The Stage Homes Facebook: Beyond The Stage Homes YouTube Channel Pinterest: BTSHomes Exciting Windows IWCE PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference - phs20.com Goodies Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shauna Lynn Simon # 76, #84, and #102 Moniomi Design #193 Dane Austin #457 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466     Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us today. She is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, and she's also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. Shauna Lynn is seriously committed to helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve success in their businesses. In today's episode, she explains how to become unforgettable to your clients. She shares several ways to make yourself memorable so that you're always the first person that your clients think of when they need an interior design or a window treatment service. Be sure to listen in, to find out what this exceptional businesswoman has to share with you today. You're really going to love her!

Shauna Lynn Simon is dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships between like-minded professionals. She partners with CEOs, executives, and solo-preneurs to grow their brands. Shauna Lynn has built a thriving home staging and design business. She has designed a comprehensive and systematic program for teaching the technical and the business side of the home staging world. She also offers core and continuing education for home staging professionals through Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Making yourself stand out uniquely.
  • It's all about understanding who you are and owning it.
  • Shauna Lynn's company has been branded with the color pink.
  • You need to know who you are and what you represent.
  • People often forget the names of people they have worked with before.
  • You need to find something to make yourself memorable.
  • Owning every part of your image.
  • You have to be one in a million.
  • Figuring out what makes you the best.
  • What fires up your passion?
  • Finding your purpose by looking at what makes you happy.
  • Positioning yourself well in the marketplace.
  • Give people a reason to remember you.
  • Figure out your "thing" is and steer yourself in that direction.
  • Everything you do should reflect your business in some way.
  • Creating an effective About You page.

Bio:

Shauna Lynn Simon is an award-winning home staging industry expert and business strategist, committed to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve success in their business. After building a thriving home staging and design business, she founded Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, a comprehensive and systematic program providing core and continuing education training for home staging professionals.

Analyst turned home stager, Shauna Lynn combines creativity with logic and problem solving to achieve incredible results. Dedicated to creating educational content that builds successful relationships, Shauna Lynn partners with CEOs, executives and solo-preneurs in the creative field to grow their personal and professional brands, providing real-world insights and actionable tips for conquering their business dreams.

Links:

Website: Beyond The Stage Homes

Facebook: Beyond The Stage Homes

YouTube Channel

Pinterest: BTSHomes

Exciting Windows

IWCE

PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference - phs20.com

Goodies

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Shauna Lynn Simon # 76, #84, and #102

Moniomi Design #193

Dane Austin #457

Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466

 

 

]]> 4480 no 498: Claire Staszak: Creating Quality Content for Social Media http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/498-claire-staszak-creating-quality-content-for-social-media Welcome! Today, we have Claire Staszak back on the show with us. Claire, who was previously in episode #166, is the principal of the Chicago-based firm, Centered by Design. Claire is a kind and genuine lady, and LuAnn has always had a very soft spot for her. In today's episode, she explains how to create excellent, top-quality content for social media. She and LuAnn also talk about how they met at the Design Influencer's Conference in 2017, and they discuss how Claire's blog, Centered by Design, was honored with an award for Best Design Writing. Be sure to listen in, to hear what Claire has to share about creating quality content for social media. Centered By Design, is known for its holistic design process, which combines Claire's passion for wellness with her well-trained eye for interiors. Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College.   She is also a certified yoga instructor with more than 500 hours of training. Claire's work has been featured by The Chicago Tribune, Modern Luxury, HGTV, Domino, Architectural Digest online and more. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Claire will be speaking at The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference that LuAnn will be headlining, in February, in Chicago. Why The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference is unique and well worth attending. Claire talks about winning the Best Design Writing Award at the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017. The Design Influencer's Conference was a turning point for Claire. It boosted her and gave her a lot of confidence. Claire has a degree in journalism so writing comes very naturally to her. Helping as many people as possible, as effectively as possible. Claire came to the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017, asking whether or not she should continue writing her blog. Claire shares her biggest takeaway from her experience of winning the Best Design Writing Award. Claire has created a workbook, called Authentically You, for interior designers and creatives looking to create content for their websites and social media. Claire has a social media following of 18 000 people, and she gets more than a million views a month on Pinterest. She shares some tips and strategies. Creating opportunities for brand ambassadorship. Claire's best apps for pre-planning and creating content. Growing your #following on Instagram. You attract the right kind of clients when you're authentic on social media. Claire has an awesome giveaway for you today! Links: Claire's online shop pages: Centered By Design Centered By Design Claire's Instagram and Pinterest: Instagram: Claire Staszak Pinterest: Claire Staszak Claire's blog Claire's giveaway - Social Media Prompts for Seasonal & Evergreen Content Goodies Process Leads To Profits Profit With Window Treatments What Would Lu Do LuAnn and Claire will be speaking at the Power House Smart Luxury Conference this February 5, 2020 For tickets Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Claire’s 1st episode #166 Kelsey Grose- The Farmer’s Daughter #167 - Winner of Best New Design Blog 2017 by Design Influencers Conference Shea McGee - episode #’s: 236, 270 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference Amber Lewis – episode #’s: 168, 184 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference Wendy Cohen: #483 - Organizer of the 2020 Power House Smart Luxury Conference       Tue, 07 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Claire Staszak: Creating Quality Content for Social Media full 498 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we have Claire Staszak back on the show with us. Claire, who was previously in episode #166, is the principal of the Chicago-based firm, Centered by Design. Claire is a kind and genuine lady, and LuAnn has always had a very soft spot... Welcome! Today, we have Claire Staszak back on the show with us. Claire, who was previously in episode #166, is the principal of the Chicago-based firm, Centered by Design. Claire is a kind and genuine lady, and LuAnn has always had a very soft spot for her. In today's episode, she explains how to create excellent, top-quality content for social media. She and LuAnn also talk about how they met at the Design Influencer's Conference in 2017, and they discuss how Claire's blog, Centered by Design, was honored with an award for Best Design Writing. Be sure to listen in, to hear what Claire has to share about creating quality content for social media. Centered By Design, is known for its holistic design process, which combines Claire's passion for wellness with her well-trained eye for interiors. Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College.   She is also a certified yoga instructor with more than 500 hours of training. Claire's work has been featured by The Chicago Tribune, Modern Luxury, HGTV, Domino, Architectural Digest online and more. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Claire will be speaking at The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference that LuAnn will be headlining, in February, in Chicago. Why The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference is unique and well worth attending. Claire talks about winning the Best Design Writing Award at the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017. The Design Influencer's Conference was a turning point for Claire. It boosted her and gave her a lot of confidence. Claire has a degree in journalism so writing comes very naturally to her. Helping as many people as possible, as effectively as possible. Claire came to the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017, asking whether or not she should continue writing her blog. Claire shares her biggest takeaway from her experience of winning the Best Design Writing Award. Claire has created a workbook, called Authentically You, for interior designers and creatives looking to create content for their websites and social media. Claire has a social media following of 18 000 people, and she gets more than a million views a month on Pinterest. She shares some tips and strategies. Creating opportunities for brand ambassadorship. Claire's best apps for pre-planning and creating content. Growing your #following on Instagram. You attract the right kind of clients when you're authentic on social media. Claire has an awesome giveaway for you today! Links: Claire's online shop pages: Centered By Design Centered By Design Claire's Instagram and Pinterest: Instagram: Claire Staszak Pinterest: Claire Staszak Claire's blog Claire's giveaway - Social Media Prompts for Seasonal & Evergreen Content Goodies Process Leads To Profits Profit With Window Treatments What Would Lu Do LuAnn and Claire will be speaking at the Power House Smart Luxury Conference this February 5, 2020 For tickets Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Claire’s 1st episode #166 Kelsey Grose- The Farmer’s Daughter #167 - Winner of Best New Design Blog 2017 by Design Influencers Conference Shea McGee - episode #’s: 236, 270 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference Amber Lewis – episode #’s: 168, 184 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference Wendy Cohen: #483 - Organizer of the 2020 Power House Smart Luxury Conference       Welcome! Today, we have Claire Staszak back on the show with us. Claire, who was previously in episode #166, is the principal of the Chicago-based firm, Centered by Design. Claire is a kind and genuine lady, and LuAnn has always had a very soft spot for her. In today's episode, she explains how to create excellent, top-quality content for social media. She and LuAnn also talk about how they met at the Design Influencer's Conference in 2017, and they discuss how Claire's blog, Centered by Design, was honored with an award for Best Design Writing. Be sure to listen in, to hear what Claire has to share about creating quality content for social media.

Centered By Design, is known for its holistic design process, which combines Claire's passion for wellness with her well-trained eye for interiors.

Claire studied interior design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bath Design from Harper College.  

She is also a certified yoga instructor with more than 500 hours of training.

Claire's work has been featured by The Chicago Tribune, Modern Luxury, HGTV, Domino, Architectural Digest online and more. Tune in now, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Claire will be speaking at The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference that LuAnn will be headlining, in February, in Chicago.
  • Why The Powerhouse Smart Luxury Conference is unique and well worth attending.
  • Claire talks about winning the Best Design Writing Award at the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017.
  • The Design Influencer's Conference was a turning point for Claire. It boosted her and gave her a lot of confidence.
  • Claire has a degree in journalism so writing comes very naturally to her.
  • Helping as many people as possible, as effectively as possible.
  • Claire came to the Design Influencer's Conference, in 2017, asking whether or not she should continue writing her blog.
  • Claire shares her biggest takeaway from her experience of winning the Best Design Writing Award.
  • Claire has created a workbook, called Authentically You, for interior designers and creatives looking to create content for their websites and social media.
  • Claire has a social media following of 18 000 people, and she gets more than a million views a month on Pinterest. She shares some tips and strategies.
  • Creating opportunities for brand ambassadorship.
  • Claire's best apps for pre-planning and creating content.
  • Growing your #following on Instagram.
  • You attract the right kind of clients when you're authentic on social media.
  • Claire has an awesome giveaway for you today!

Links:

Claire's online shop pages:

Centered By Design

Centered By Design

Claire's Instagram and Pinterest:

Instagram: Claire Staszak

Pinterest: Claire Staszak

Claire's blog

Claire's giveaway - Social Media Prompts for Seasonal & Evergreen Content Goodies

Process Leads To Profits

Profit With Window Treatments

What Would Lu Do

LuAnn and Claire will be speaking at the Power House Smart Luxury Conference this February 5, 2020

For tickets

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Claire’s 1st episode #166

Kelsey Grose- The Farmer’s Daughter #167 - Winner of Best New Design Blog 2017 by Design Influencers Conference

Shea McGee - episode #’s: 236, 270 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference

Amber Lewis – episode #’s: 168, 184 - Keynote Speaker 2017 at Design Influencers Conference

Wendy Cohen: #483 - Organizer of the 2020 Power House Smart Luxury Conference

 

 

 

]]> 4217 no 497: Power Talk Friday: Kim Dawson: Are You Charging Enough? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/497-power-talk-friday-kim-dawson-are-you-charging-enough Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have a business strategist, Kim Dawson, joining us. Kim enjoys working with business owners, helping them earn more and grow their businesses into successful enterprises. Her superpower is helping the owners of service-based businesses work out their ideal pricing formula. In other words, she guides them through a process of figuring out how much they should be charging, either per hour or for an entire project, to be profitable. Kim's advice is to always start with the numbers so that you can plan and strategize to accomplish your goals, rather than wishing for them to happen. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share. Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim's experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses. Tune in now, to find out how to set and track your yearly financial goals, and make more profit from your business. Show Highlights: Kim works with many different industries. Running a business is not for everybody. Owning a business does not mean that you know how to run one. Making a plan to earn your money. Getting your priorities in order. Looking at your numbers. Kim shares a formula for working out how much money you need to bring in each year. You need to know your market. Evaluating the whole situation before deciding to take something on helps you stay on target. Kim advises charging a flat fee, rather than an hourly fee. Working out your hourly rate. Finding the right market for the rate you're charging. Using a strategic plan to get where you want to go. Tracking your time makes your billing easier. Kim used to have The Sassy Strategist Podcast. The shows to go with this show: Krista Coupar #60 Kim Merlitti #361 and #442 Alinda Morris #429 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Michele Williams #395 Kae Whitaker #114 Links: Kim Dawson LuAnn Nigara Profit With Window Treatments Kirsch My Doma Studio Kravet Well Designed Article IWCE Vision     Fri, 03 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kim Dawson: Are You Charging Enough? full 497 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have a business strategist, Kim Dawson, joining us. Kim enjoys working with business owners, helping them earn more and grow their businesses into successful enterprises. Her superpower is helping the owners of... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have a business strategist, Kim Dawson, joining us. Kim enjoys working with business owners, helping them earn more and grow their businesses into successful enterprises. Her superpower is helping the owners of service-based businesses work out their ideal pricing formula. In other words, she guides them through a process of figuring out how much they should be charging, either per hour or for an entire project, to be profitable. Kim's advice is to always start with the numbers so that you can plan and strategize to accomplish your goals, rather than wishing for them to happen. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share. Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim's experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses. Tune in now, to find out how to set and track your yearly financial goals, and make more profit from your business. Show Highlights: Kim works with many different industries. Running a business is not for everybody. Owning a business does not mean that you know how to run one. Making a plan to earn your money. Getting your priorities in order. Looking at your numbers. Kim shares a formula for working out how much money you need to bring in each year. You need to know your market. Evaluating the whole situation before deciding to take something on helps you stay on target. Kim advises charging a flat fee, rather than an hourly fee. Working out your hourly rate. Finding the right market for the rate you're charging. Using a strategic plan to get where you want to go. Tracking your time makes your billing easier. Kim used to have The Sassy Strategist Podcast. The shows to go with this show: Krista Coupar #60 Kim Merlitti #361 and #442 Alinda Morris #429 Cheryl Clendenon #482 Michele Williams #395 Kae Whitaker #114 Links: Kim Dawson LuAnn Nigara Profit With Window Treatments Kirsch My Doma Studio Kravet Well Designed Article IWCE Vision     Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have a business strategist, Kim Dawson, joining us. Kim enjoys working with business owners, helping them earn more and grow their businesses into successful enterprises. Her superpower is helping the owners of service-based businesses work out their ideal pricing formula. In other words, she guides them through a process of figuring out how much they should be charging, either per hour or for an entire project, to be profitable. Kim's advice is to always start with the numbers so that you can plan and strategize to accomplish your goals, rather than wishing for them to happen. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share.

Kim is a lifelong entrepreneur. She has started many businesses of her own, including a local health and fitness studio, and she has also co-founded a software setup. Kim's experience lies both in locally-focused, service-oriented businesses, and in online product-based businesses. Tune in now, to find out how to set and track your yearly financial goals, and make more profit from your business.

Show Highlights:

  • Kim works with many different industries.
  • Running a business is not for everybody.
  • Owning a business does not mean that you know how to run one.
  • Making a plan to earn your money.
  • Getting your priorities in order.
  • Looking at your numbers.
  • Kim shares a formula for working out how much money you need to bring in each year.
  • You need to know your market.
  • Evaluating the whole situation before deciding to take something on helps you stay on target.
  • Kim advises charging a flat fee, rather than an hourly fee.
  • Working out your hourly rate.
  • Finding the right market for the rate you're charging.
  • Using a strategic plan to get where you want to go.
  • Tracking your time makes your billing easier.
  • Kim used to have The Sassy Strategist Podcast.

The shows to go with this show:

Krista Coupar #60

Kim Merlitti #361 and #442

Alinda Morris #429

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Michele Williams #395

Kae Whitaker #114

Links:

Kim Dawson

LuAnn Nigara

Profit With Window Treatments

Kirsch

My Doma Studio

Kravet

Well Designed Article

IWCE Vision

 

 

]]> 4227 no 496: Sally Williams: In 1 Year She Grew 40% to Reach Nearly $1 Million in Gross Revenue http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/496-sally-williams-in-1-year-she-grew-40-to-reach-nearly-1-million-in-gross-revenue Welcome to the last podcast for 2019! Today, we have Sally Williams, the owner of Colorful Concepts Interior Design, based in Raleigh, New York, with us on the show. Sally knows who she is, what she is capable of doing, and what sets her apart from other designers. And this comes across very distinctly in her carefully thought-out and exceptionally well-written bio. Listen in today, to hear what Sally has to share about the way she markets and grows her design firm. Sally is very clear about what she will do and what she won't do in her business. And she knows precisely what to say when she has to have difficult conversations with her clients. This is Sally's secret sauce because certain conversations can be very hard to have if you're not prepared. In today's show, Sally explains how she's equipped herself for having these hard conversations with clients, and she talks to us about two changes that she made in her firm, which have resulted in a 40% increase in her gross sales in just one year. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more! We wish you the happiest and most successful of years in 2020! Show Highlights: Sally explains how she achieved a 40% growth in her business this year, by making two changes. Changing to charging an hourly rate, rather than a flat fee. Sally explains how she estimates the cost of a design project. Sally's mechanism for billing her clients for additional work. Sally explains how she and her team track their hours. Sally walks us through her strategy wall for new projects. Setting things up for a new project. Sally explains how she persuades new clients to hang in there, and bear with her until she's ready to start with their project. How Sally and her team coped with a 40% growth this year. Creating touchpoints for keeping the communication with the client open throughout a project. The wrapping-up process. Susan Brunstrum (#36) has developed a great process for wrapping up a design project. Charging the same mark-up percentage on products across the board. Sally explains how she builds her pipeline and markets her business. Bio: Sally Williams, the Owner and Principal Designer of Colorful Concepts Interior Design has a design aesthetic that is timeless and free of stylistic premises working in contemporary and traditional spaces alike. Sally is a CQRID-certified Interior Designer who has also earned an Accounting degree from the College of William and Mary.  She worked in Corporate Accounting Management prior to following her life-long passion for Fine Art and Craft by opening a Gallery in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina.  During her seven years of Gallery ownership, Sally’s eyes were opened to the world of Interior Design.  With the encouragement of Gallery clients, friends, and family, she pursued vigorous self-study of the field. In 2002, Sally closed the Gallery and Colorful Concepts was born.  The gallery and artists Sally worked with continue to inspire her design approach today.  She begins her designs with the color palette, which sets the tone for the entire project.  Sally transforms a space artistically, providing balanced composition and soulful color schemes set in crisp optimistic environments.  She has a strong philosophy that environments impact peoples’ daily lives, and she works with the client to deeply understand what they want and need in their space. ​As the daughter of a United States Foreign Service Officer, Sally spent much of her childhood overseas.  A multi-cultural heritage of French-Canadian on her Father’s side, and Peruvian on her Mother’s, has also inspired Sally’s creativity, which is delivered beyond her client’s expectations. Sally is a Past President of the Triangle Chapter of the Interior Design Society; a member of numerous Professional Associations including the Home Builders Association and the Remodeler’s Council; and is a volunteer with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Carolina Designer Craftsmen Guild.  Sally has lived in Raleigh for thirty years, where she and her husband, Richard, raised their two daughters - Angela and Nancy.   Colorful Concepts Interior Design is a full-service Interior Design studio providing professional services in residential renovation design, space planning, new home materials selections, custom window treatments, and furnishings, fine art and craft consulting, and more.  At Colorful Concepts Interior Design, long-term client relationships are valued, and we look forward to working with you on future projects as well. We are fortunate to serve clients in a way that truly enhances their lives. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Cheryl Clendenon # 482 Susan Brunstrum # 36 Nicole Heymer # 125, #317, and #466 Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460 Links: Colorful Concepts Interior Design Instagram Facebook Dering Hall Luann Nigara Well Designed Article My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business     Tue, 31 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Sally Williams: In 1 Year She Grew 40% to Reach Nearly $1 Million in Gross Revenue full 496 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the last podcast for 2019! Today, we have Sally Williams, the owner of Colorful Concepts Interior Design, based in Raleigh, New York, with us on the show. Sally knows who she is, what she is capable of doing, and what sets her apart from... Welcome to the last podcast for 2019! Today, we have Sally Williams, the owner of Colorful Concepts Interior Design, based in Raleigh, New York, with us on the show. Sally knows who she is, what she is capable of doing, and what sets her apart from other designers. And this comes across very distinctly in her carefully thought-out and exceptionally well-written bio. Listen in today, to hear what Sally has to share about the way she markets and grows her design firm. Sally is very clear about what she will do and what she won't do in her business. And she knows precisely what to say when she has to have difficult conversations with her clients. This is Sally's secret sauce because certain conversations can be very hard to have if you're not prepared. In today's show, Sally explains how she's equipped herself for having these hard conversations with clients, and she talks to us about two changes that she made in her firm, which have resulted in a 40% increase in her gross sales in just one year. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more! We wish you the happiest and most successful of years in 2020! Show Highlights: Sally explains how she achieved a 40% growth in her business this year, by making two changes. Changing to charging an hourly rate, rather than a flat fee. Sally explains how she estimates the cost of a design project. Sally's mechanism for billing her clients for additional work. Sally explains how she and her team track their hours. Sally walks us through her strategy wall for new projects. Setting things up for a new project. Sally explains how she persuades new clients to hang in there, and bear with her until she's ready to start with their project. How Sally and her team coped with a 40% growth this year. Creating touchpoints for keeping the communication with the client open throughout a project. The wrapping-up process. Susan Brunstrum (#36) has developed a great process for wrapping up a design project. Charging the same mark-up percentage on products across the board. Sally explains how she builds her pipeline and markets her business. Bio: Sally Williams, the Owner and Principal Designer of Colorful Concepts Interior Design has a design aesthetic that is timeless and free of stylistic premises working in contemporary and traditional spaces alike. Sally is a CQRID-certified Interior Designer who has also earned an Accounting degree from the College of William and Mary.  She worked in Corporate Accounting Management prior to following her life-long passion for Fine Art and Craft by opening a Gallery in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina.  During her seven years of Gallery ownership, Sally’s eyes were opened to the world of Interior Design.  With the encouragement of Gallery clients, friends, and family, she pursued vigorous self-study of the field. In 2002, Sally closed the Gallery and Colorful Concepts was born.  The gallery and artists Sally worked with continue to inspire her design approach today.  She begins her designs with the color palette, which sets the tone for the entire project.  Sally transforms a space artistically, providing balanced composition and soulful color schemes set in crisp optimistic environments.  She has a strong philosophy that environments impact peoples’ daily lives, and she works with the client to deeply understand what they want and need in their space. ​As the daughter of a United States Foreign Service Officer, Sally spent much of her childhood overseas.  A multi-cultural heritage of French-Canadian on her Father’s side, and Peruvian on her Mother’s, has also inspired Sally’s creativity, which is delivered beyond her client’s expectations. Sally is a Past President of the Triangle Chapter of the Interior Design Society; a member of numerous Professional Associations including the Home Builders Association and the Remodeler’s Council; and is a volunteer with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Carolina Designer Craftsmen Guild.  Sally has lived in Raleigh for thirty years, where she and her husband, Richard, raised their two daughters - Angela and Nancy.   Colorful Concepts Interior Design is a full-service Interior Design studio providing professional services in residential renovation design, space planning, new home materials selections, custom window treatments, and furnishings, fine art and craft consulting, and more.  At Colorful Concepts Interior Design, long-term client relationships are valued, and we look forward to working with you on future projects as well. We are fortunate to serve clients in a way that truly enhances their lives. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Cheryl Clendenon # 482 Susan Brunstrum # 36 Nicole Heymer # 125, #317, and #466 Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460 Links: Colorful Concepts Interior Design Instagram Facebook Dering Hall Luann Nigara Well Designed Article My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business     Welcome to the last podcast for 2019! Today, we have Sally Williams, the owner of Colorful Concepts Interior Design, based in Raleigh, New York, with us on the show. Sally knows who she is, what she is capable of doing, and what sets her apart from other designers. And this comes across very distinctly in her carefully thought-out and exceptionally well-written bio. Listen in today, to hear what Sally has to share about the way she markets and grows her design firm.

Sally is very clear about what she will do and what she won't do in her business. And she knows precisely what to say when she has to have difficult conversations with her clients. This is Sally's secret sauce because certain conversations can be very hard to have if you're not prepared. In today's show, Sally explains how she's equipped herself for having these hard conversations with clients, and she talks to us about two changes that she made in her firm, which have resulted in a 40% increase in her gross sales in just one year. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more!

We wish you the happiest and most successful of years in 2020!

Show Highlights:

  • Sally explains how she achieved a 40% growth in her business this year, by making two changes.
  • Changing to charging an hourly rate, rather than a flat fee.
  • Sally explains how she estimates the cost of a design project.
  • Sally's mechanism for billing her clients for additional work.
  • Sally explains how she and her team track their hours.
  • Sally walks us through her strategy wall for new projects.
  • Setting things up for a new project.
  • Sally explains how she persuades new clients to hang in there, and bear with her until she's ready to start with their project.
  • How Sally and her team coped with a 40% growth this year.
  • Creating touchpoints for keeping the communication with the client open throughout a project.
  • The wrapping-up process.
  • Susan Brunstrum (#36) has developed a great process for wrapping up a design project.
  • Charging the same mark-up percentage on products across the board.
  • Sally explains how she builds her pipeline and markets her business.

Bio:

Sally Williams, the Owner and Principal Designer of Colorful Concepts Interior Design has a design aesthetic that is timeless and free of stylistic premises working in contemporary and traditional spaces alike.

Sally is a CQRID-certified Interior Designer who has also earned an Accounting degree from the College of William and Mary.  She worked in Corporate Accounting Management prior to following her life-long passion for Fine Art and Craft by opening a Gallery in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina.  During her seven years of Gallery ownership, Sally’s eyes were opened to the world of Interior Design.  With the encouragement of Gallery clients, friends, and family, she pursued vigorous self-study of the field. In 2002, Sally closed the Gallery and Colorful Concepts was born. 

The gallery and artists Sally worked with continue to inspire her design approach today.  She begins her designs with the color palette, which sets the tone for the entire project.  Sally transforms a space artistically, providing balanced composition and soulful color schemes set in crisp optimistic environments.  She has a strong philosophy that environments impact peoples’ daily lives, and she works with the client to deeply understand what they want and need in their space.

​As the daughter of a United States Foreign Service Officer, Sally spent much of her childhood overseas.  A multi-cultural heritage of French-Canadian on her Father’s side, and Peruvian on her Mother’s, has also inspired Sally’s creativity, which is delivered beyond her client’s expectations.

Sally is a Past President of the Triangle Chapter of the Interior Design Society; a member of numerous Professional Associations including the Home Builders Association and the Remodeler’s Council; and is a volunteer with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Carolina Designer Craftsmen Guild.  Sally has lived in Raleigh for thirty years, where she and her husband, Richard, raised their two daughters - Angela and Nancy.  

Colorful Concepts Interior Design is a full-service Interior Design studio providing professional services in residential renovation design, space planning, new home materials selections, custom window treatments, and furnishings, fine art and craft consulting, and more.  At Colorful Concepts Interior Design, long-term client relationships are valued, and we look forward to working with you on future projects as well. We are fortunate to serve clients in a way that truly enhances their lives.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Cheryl Clendenon # 482

Susan Brunstrum # 36

Nicole Heymer # 125, #317, and #466

Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460

Links:

Colorful Concepts Interior Design

Instagram

Facebook

Dering Hall

Luann Nigara

Well Designed Article

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

 

 

]]> 4840 no 495: Power Talk Friday: Gerri Detweiler: Do You Know What You Need to Know About Business Credit? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/495-power-talk-friday-gerri-detweiler-do-you-know-what-you-need-to-know-about-business-credit Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today, we're very excited to be talking money with our guest, Gerri Detweiler! Gerri understands just how to talk to creatives like us about money in a way that we truly get it. As designers, we need to understand that working intentionally with our business finances will ultimately allow us to bring our design talent to the world. However, many creatives struggle to understand the nuances of money and finance, so, in today's episode, Gerri talks to us about business finance and she explains how to get access to a line of credit. Be sure to listen in, to get a clear understanding of credit and financing for your business. Gerri has been guiding individuals through the confusing world of credit for more than twenty years. Her articles have been widely syndicated, and she is either the author or co-author of five books, including her most recent, Finance Your Own Business: Get on the Financing Fast Track. Gerri is also the Education Director for Nav, which matches small business owners to their best financing options and gives them free access to their personal and business credit scores. Tune in today, to find out more! Show Highlights: Gerri admits that she's not a numbers person. She does what she does because she loves helping people. Gerri hates seeing people making bad choices. Why you need to have a good financial buffer available for your business. Setting your business up smartly, for success. Protecting your personal finances from your business's ups and downs. There are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about which cards to use in your business. Some clever strategies for saving on bank charges. Avoiding fraud with credit cards. Using business credit to benefit your cash-flow. Establishing a line of credit. There are many different loans available for small businesses via the SBA. Checking on business credit. Why you need to keep your personal credit scores separate from business credit scores. Business credit- use it or you'll lose it. How Nav helps business owners. You can set up your business credit for free with Nav. Links: Nav: The coupon code for opening a premium Nav account is PODCAST. Nav Blog Find out which small business credit cards don't report to your personal credit: Nav Small business credit cards that DO help you build business credit Get Nav's free Build Business Credit Checklist at Nav Podcast Facebook: Nav Twitter: NavSMB Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Peter Lang #349 and #464 Kimberley Merlitti #361 and #442 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424 Taylor Spellman #467 Ashley Micchice #468   Fri, 27 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Gerri Detweiler: Do You Know What You Need to Know About Business Credit? full 495 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today, we're very excited to be talking money with our guest, Gerri Detweiler! Gerri understands just how to talk to creatives like us about money in a way that we truly get it. As designers, we need to understand... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today, we're very excited to be talking money with our guest, Gerri Detweiler! Gerri understands just how to talk to creatives like us about money in a way that we truly get it. As designers, we need to understand that working intentionally with our business finances will ultimately allow us to bring our design talent to the world. However, many creatives struggle to understand the nuances of money and finance, so, in today's episode, Gerri talks to us about business finance and she explains how to get access to a line of credit. Be sure to listen in, to get a clear understanding of credit and financing for your business. Gerri has been guiding individuals through the confusing world of credit for more than twenty years. Her articles have been widely syndicated, and she is either the author or co-author of five books, including her most recent, Finance Your Own Business: Get on the Financing Fast Track. Gerri is also the Education Director for Nav, which matches small business owners to their best financing options and gives them free access to their personal and business credit scores. Tune in today, to find out more! Show Highlights: Gerri admits that she's not a numbers person. She does what she does because she loves helping people. Gerri hates seeing people making bad choices. Why you need to have a good financial buffer available for your business. Setting your business up smartly, for success. Protecting your personal finances from your business's ups and downs. There are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about which cards to use in your business. Some clever strategies for saving on bank charges. Avoiding fraud with credit cards. Using business credit to benefit your cash-flow. Establishing a line of credit. There are many different loans available for small businesses via the SBA. Checking on business credit. Why you need to keep your personal credit scores separate from business credit scores. Business credit- use it or you'll lose it. How Nav helps business owners. You can set up your business credit for free with Nav. Links: Nav: The coupon code for opening a premium Nav account is PODCAST. Nav Blog Find out which small business credit cards don't report to your personal credit: Nav Small business credit cards that DO help you build business credit Get Nav's free Build Business Credit Checklist at Nav Podcast Facebook: Nav Twitter: NavSMB Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Peter Lang #349 and #464 Kimberley Merlitti #361 and #442 Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424 Taylor Spellman #467 Ashley Micchice #468   Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today, we're very excited to be talking money with our guest, Gerri Detweiler! Gerri understands just how to talk to creatives like us about money in a way that we truly get it.

As designers, we need to understand that working intentionally with our business finances will ultimately allow us to bring our design talent to the world. However, many creatives struggle to understand the nuances of money and finance, so, in today's episode, Gerri talks to us about business finance and she explains how to get access to a line of credit. Be sure to listen in, to get a clear understanding of credit and financing for your business.

Gerri has been guiding individuals through the confusing world of credit for more than twenty years. Her articles have been widely syndicated, and she is either the author or co-author of five books, including her most recent, Finance Your Own Business: Get on the Financing Fast Track. Gerri is also the Education Director for Nav, which matches small business owners to their best financing options and gives them free access to their personal and business credit scores. Tune in today, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Gerri admits that she's not a numbers person. She does what she does because she loves helping people.
  • Gerri hates seeing people making bad choices.
  • Why you need to have a good financial buffer available for your business.
  • Setting your business up smartly, for success.
  • Protecting your personal finances from your business's ups and downs.
  • There are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about which cards to use in your business.
  • Some clever strategies for saving on bank charges.
  • Avoiding fraud with credit cards.
  • Using business credit to benefit your cash-flow.
  • Establishing a line of credit.
  • There are many different loans available for small businesses via the SBA.
  • Checking on business credit.
  • Why you need to keep your personal credit scores separate from business credit scores.
  • Business credit- use it or you'll lose it.
  • How Nav helps business owners.
  • You can set up your business credit for free with Nav.

Links:

Nav: The coupon code for opening a premium Nav account is PODCAST.

Nav Blog

Find out which small business credit cards don't report to your personal credit: Nav

Small business credit cards that DO help you build business credit

Get Nav's free Build Business Credit Checklist at Nav Podcast

Facebook: Nav

Twitter: NavSMB

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Peter Lang #349 and #464

Kimberley Merlitti #361 and #442

Michele Williams #137, #180, #395, and #424

Taylor Spellman #467

Ashley Micchice #468

 

]]> 4435 no 494: Mimi Goldsmith: Take Action and Create Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/494-mimi-goldsmith-take-action-and-create-success Welcome! We have Mimi Goldsmith, a loyal podcast listener, and the principal owner of her referral-based business, Style by Mimi G, with us on the show today. Mimi's bio is a perfect example of the lessons that Fred Berns, and Nicole Heymer, of Curio Electro, have been teaching us. Although Mimi has only been in business for a few short years, she has created a bio that draws the reader's attention to the uniqueness of her work. In today's episode, she talks to us about her business, how she started it, and all the shows that influenced her and helped her get her business off the ground. Be sure to listen in today, to hear what Mimi has to share about her journey! Mimi Goldsmith, an interior decorator, and stylist is the principal owner of Style by Mimi G, which she opened in 2016. Mimi provides full-service interior decorating, e-design service, interior consultations, space planning, paint color consulting and home styling packages. She specializes in creating one-of-a-kind residential and commercial interiors for her local full-service clients. She also specializes in creating tranquil therapy offices for therapists across the world through her online services. Tune in now, to find out how Mimi got her business up and running! Show Highlights: Mimi describes her spontaneous decision to start her interior design business. The kind of research Mimi did when she started her business. Mimi didn't know how much to charge when she started. The magic of attending a LuAnn Live event. Mimi explains how she found this podcast. The groups that can be found via the podcast. How Mimi has been growing her business. Where Mimi found the necessary information to grow her business. Some lessons that Mimi learned from getting her clients' feedback. To work after business hours, or not? Mimi takes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons off. Some very valuable lessons that Mimi has learned. Making use of My Doma's services. It's a great idea to create various design packages. Learning about vendor relationships. Buying from local vendors and learning from their expertise. It's essential to run your business with integrity. When you charge more, you can deliver more, and you create loyalty. Links: Mimi Goldsmith's website: Style by Mimi G Instagram: Style by Mimi G Facebook: Style by Mimi G What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Live Get the Goodies LuAnn Nigara and Friends Facebook Group Claire’s Facebook group: Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica’s Facebook group: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School Darla’s Facebook group: The Wingnut Social Media Lab Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460 Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125, #317, and #466 Summer Tannhauser #292 Stefan Spencer   Sandra Funk  # 02 and #145 Groups to be found in the podcast: Claire Jefford (# 237, #325, #485) - Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica Solomon (#50) - What They Don't Teach You In Design School Darla Powel (#203, #330)l - Wingnut Social Leslie Carothers (#458) - The Design Wealth Group Cheryl Clendenon (#482) - Small Business, Think Big Email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com if you think she could be your partner in making 2020 your amazing year!     Tue, 24 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Mimi Goldsmith: Take Action and Create Success full 494 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We have Mimi Goldsmith, a loyal podcast listener, and the principal owner of her referral-based business, Style by Mimi G, with us on the show today. Mimi's bio is a perfect example of the lessons that Fred Berns, and Nicole Heymer, of Curio... Welcome! We have Mimi Goldsmith, a loyal podcast listener, and the principal owner of her referral-based business, Style by Mimi G, with us on the show today. Mimi's bio is a perfect example of the lessons that Fred Berns, and Nicole Heymer, of Curio Electro, have been teaching us. Although Mimi has only been in business for a few short years, she has created a bio that draws the reader's attention to the uniqueness of her work. In today's episode, she talks to us about her business, how she started it, and all the shows that influenced her and helped her get her business off the ground. Be sure to listen in today, to hear what Mimi has to share about her journey! Mimi Goldsmith, an interior decorator, and stylist is the principal owner of Style by Mimi G, which she opened in 2016. Mimi provides full-service interior decorating, e-design service, interior consultations, space planning, paint color consulting and home styling packages. She specializes in creating one-of-a-kind residential and commercial interiors for her local full-service clients. She also specializes in creating tranquil therapy offices for therapists across the world through her online services. Tune in now, to find out how Mimi got her business up and running! Show Highlights: Mimi describes her spontaneous decision to start her interior design business. The kind of research Mimi did when she started her business. Mimi didn't know how much to charge when she started. The magic of attending a LuAnn Live event. Mimi explains how she found this podcast. The groups that can be found via the podcast. How Mimi has been growing her business. Where Mimi found the necessary information to grow her business. Some lessons that Mimi learned from getting her clients' feedback. To work after business hours, or not? Mimi takes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons off. Some very valuable lessons that Mimi has learned. Making use of My Doma's services. It's a great idea to create various design packages. Learning about vendor relationships. Buying from local vendors and learning from their expertise. It's essential to run your business with integrity. When you charge more, you can deliver more, and you create loyalty. Links: Mimi Goldsmith's website: Style by Mimi G Instagram: Style by Mimi G Facebook: Style by Mimi G What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Live Get the Goodies LuAnn Nigara and Friends Facebook Group Claire’s Facebook group: Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica’s Facebook group: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School Darla’s Facebook group: The Wingnut Social Media Lab Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460 Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125, #317, and #466 Summer Tannhauser #292 Stefan Spencer   Sandra Funk  # 02 and #145 Groups to be found in the podcast: Claire Jefford (# 237, #325, #485) - Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica Solomon (#50) - What They Don't Teach You In Design School Darla Powel (#203, #330)l - Wingnut Social Leslie Carothers (#458) - The Design Wealth Group Cheryl Clendenon (#482) - Small Business, Think Big Email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com if you think she could be your partner in making 2020 your amazing year!     Welcome! We have Mimi Goldsmith, a loyal podcast listener, and the principal owner of her referral-based business, Style by Mimi G, with us on the show today. Mimi's bio is a perfect example of the lessons that Fred Berns, and Nicole Heymer, of Curio Electro, have been teaching us. Although Mimi has only been in business for a few short years, she has created a bio that draws the reader's attention to the uniqueness of her work. In today's episode, she talks to us about her business, how she started it, and all the shows that influenced her and helped her get her business off the ground. Be sure to listen in today, to hear what Mimi has to share about her journey!

Mimi Goldsmith, an interior decorator, and stylist is the principal owner of Style by Mimi G, which she opened in 2016. Mimi provides full-service interior decorating, e-design service, interior consultations, space planning, paint color consulting and home styling packages. She specializes in creating one-of-a-kind residential and commercial interiors for her local full-service clients. She also specializes in creating tranquil therapy offices for therapists across the world through her online services. Tune in now, to find out how Mimi got her business up and running!

Show Highlights:

  • Mimi describes her spontaneous decision to start her interior design business.
  • The kind of research Mimi did when she started her business.
  • Mimi didn't know how much to charge when she started.
  • The magic of attending a LuAnn Live event.
  • Mimi explains how she found this podcast.
  • The groups that can be found via the podcast.
  • How Mimi has been growing her business.
  • Where Mimi found the necessary information to grow her business.
  • Some lessons that Mimi learned from getting her clients' feedback.
  • To work after business hours, or not?
  • Mimi takes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons off.
  • Some very valuable lessons that Mimi has learned.
  • Making use of My Doma's services.
  • It's a great idea to create various design packages.
  • Learning about vendor relationships.
  • Buying from local vendors and learning from their expertise.
  • It's essential to run your business with integrity.
  • When you charge more, you can deliver more, and you create loyalty.

Links:

Mimi Goldsmith's website: Style by Mimi G

Instagram: Style by Mimi G

Facebook: Style by Mimi G

What Would Lu Do?

LuAnn Live

Get the Goodies

LuAnn Nigara and Friends Facebook Group

Claire’s Facebook group: Interior Design Business Strategies

Veronica’s Facebook group: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School

Darla’s Facebook group: The Wingnut Social Media Lab

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460

Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125, #317, and #466

Summer Tannhauser #292

Stefan Spencer  

Sandra Funk  # 02 and #145

Groups to be found in the podcast:

Claire Jefford (# 237, #325, #485) - Interior Design Business Strategies

Veronica Solomon (#50) - What They Don't Teach You In Design School

Darla Powel (#203, #330)l - Wingnut Social

Leslie Carothers (#458) - The Design Wealth Group

Cheryl Clendenon (#482) - Small Business, Think Big

Email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com if you think she could be your partner in making 2020 your amazing year!

 

 

]]> 4874 no 493: Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/493-window-treatment-friday-vitalia-vygovska-a-mindset-for-success Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska joining us on the show. As most of you know, Vita is LuAnn's Window Treatment Friday co-host. Ever since they launched the series last summer, they have been getting awesome feedback from designers and the window treatment community. Vita is an award-winning window treatment specialist with an impressive career path. In today's episode, you will learn all about her life, her career, her business, and her superpowers, so be sure to listen in, to get to know Vita a little better! Vita has an MBA. She is a CWFP (Certified Window Treatment Professional), an award-winning window treatment specialist, and an author. Her company, Vitalia Inc. Her company, Vitalia, Inc., provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services, exclusively for interior designers. Tune in today to find out more! Show Highlights: Vita talks about what her career path looked like before she started doing window treatments. How Vita came to open Vitalia Inc. Vita has a flair for finance. The corporate world can be brutal. Vita truly appreciates the skills she developed and the lessons she learned in the corporate world. Why Vita decided to leave her corporate career. Productivity is very important for Vita. The kind of confidence that corporate gave Vita. Learning the skill and finesse to stand her ground in the face of bullies. Looking back to learn from your past mistakes. Vita is like an extension of the team of the designers she works with. Entering the window treatment world with her eyes wide open. It took Vita two years to decide to leave the corporate world. Being very clear about your mission and vision. It's not necessary to go it alone because there's so much help and support available out there. What you will learn in Vita's eight-week Profit With Window Treatments Remember- your success starts with a decision. Bio: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. A big thank you to Kirsch for sponsoring Window Treatment Fridays! Links: To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To learn about Mydoma Studio   Fri, 20 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success full 493 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska joining us on the show. As most of you know, Vita is LuAnn's Window Treatment Friday co-host. Ever since they launched the series last summer, they have been getting awesome feedback... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska joining us on the show. As most of you know, Vita is LuAnn's Window Treatment Friday co-host. Ever since they launched the series last summer, they have been getting awesome feedback from designers and the window treatment community. Vita is an award-winning window treatment specialist with an impressive career path. In today's episode, you will learn all about her life, her career, her business, and her superpowers, so be sure to listen in, to get to know Vita a little better! Vita has an MBA. She is a CWFP (Certified Window Treatment Professional), an award-winning window treatment specialist, and an author. Her company, Vitalia Inc. Her company, Vitalia, Inc., provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services, exclusively for interior designers. Tune in today to find out more! Show Highlights: Vita talks about what her career path looked like before she started doing window treatments. How Vita came to open Vitalia Inc. Vita has a flair for finance. The corporate world can be brutal. Vita truly appreciates the skills she developed and the lessons she learned in the corporate world. Why Vita decided to leave her corporate career. Productivity is very important for Vita. The kind of confidence that corporate gave Vita. Learning the skill and finesse to stand her ground in the face of bullies. Looking back to learn from your past mistakes. Vita is like an extension of the team of the designers she works with. Entering the window treatment world with her eyes wide open. It took Vita two years to decide to leave the corporate world. Being very clear about your mission and vision. It's not necessary to go it alone because there's so much help and support available out there. What you will learn in Vita's eight-week Profit With Window Treatments Remember- your success starts with a decision. Bio: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. A big thank you to Kirsch for sponsoring Window Treatment Fridays! Links: To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To learn about Mydoma Studio   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska joining us on the show. As most of you know, Vita is LuAnn's Window Treatment Friday co-host. Ever since they launched the series last summer, they have been getting awesome feedback from designers and the window treatment community. Vita is an award-winning window treatment specialist with an impressive career path. In today's episode, you will learn all about her life, her career, her business, and her superpowers, so be sure to listen in, to get to know Vita a little better!

Vita has an MBA. She is a CWFP (Certified Window Treatment Professional), an award-winning window treatment specialist, and an author. Her company, Vitalia Inc. Her company, Vitalia, Inc., provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services, exclusively for interior designers. Tune in today to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Vita talks about what her career path looked like before she started doing window treatments.
  • How Vita came to open Vitalia Inc.
  • Vita has a flair for finance.
  • The corporate world can be brutal.
  • Vita truly appreciates the skills she developed and the lessons she learned in the corporate world.
  • Why Vita decided to leave her corporate career.
  • Productivity is very important for Vita.
  • The kind of confidence that corporate gave Vita.
  • Learning the skill and finesse to stand her ground in the face of bullies.
  • Looking back to learn from your past mistakes.
  • Vita is like an extension of the team of the designers she works with.
  • Entering the window treatment world with her eyes wide open.
  • It took Vita two years to decide to leave the corporate world.
  • Being very clear about your mission and vision.
  • It's not necessary to go it alone because there's so much help and support available out there.
  • What you will learn in Vita's eight-week Profit With Window Treatments
  • Remember- your success starts with a decision.

Bio:

Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.

A big thank you to Kirsch for sponsoring Window Treatment Fridays!

Links:

To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc

To learn more about working with Window Works

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

To learn about Exciting Windows

To learn about Mydoma Studio

 

]]> 3800 no 492: Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/492-laura-umansky-leadership-is-the-secret-sauce-of-success Welcome! Today, Laura Umansky, the principal of Laura U, (episode # 64) joins us once again on the show. Laura very clear about her vision for her firm and she is currently guiding her company to work towards growing from a five-million-dollar firm to a ten-million-dollar firm. In today's episode, Laura explains that, for her, this kind of growth requires a team of outside expert consultants, including an outside CFO, an EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) consultant, and her business advisor, in addition to her internal team. Laura is a true #smartlady, so be sure to listen in today, to hear this outstanding conversation. Laura is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, which is based in Houston, Texas. Her work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, which include Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Laura is also in Carl Dellator's brand new book, On Style: Inspiration and Advice from the New Generation of Interior Design, which was released in the fall of 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laura is ultra-focused and she is a major planner. Nothing happens by accident so you have to be prepared to be lucky. Laura talks about the intentional way that she and her plan for her business to be run. Work begets work. You need to put yourself out there, plan, and get involved with your community, for things to come back to you. Laura is ready to take her firm to the next level. She explains what this means for her. Structuring a business to scale it. Laura describes the kinds of decisions she has to make in her firm. For her first seven years in business, Laura worked without the assistance of any advisors. Laura started working with a business coach four or five years ago. Working with a virtual CFO. Laura has chosen to run her business on the EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) system. The EOS system can even be used for a family! Always doing what's best for the business is vital. How Laura manages to be both the visionary and the integrator for her firm. Laura talks about the processes that are involved in growing her firm from a five-million-dollar company to a ten-million-dollar company. Being a life-long-learners with a growth mindset is important for scaling a business. Laura talks about Carl Dellator's book, On Style, which has just come out. Bio: Laura Umansky is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, a firm based in Houston, TX. Design has always been a part of her life. From a young age, Laura was deeply influenced by her environment, constantly finding ways to arrange her possessions with meaning and purpose. Seeing her father build her childhood home in Seguin, TX was the starting point of her career. “To see that he could do that, create our home with his own two hands…that lit something inside of me,” says Laura, who went on to study art at the University of Texas and subsequently obtain her Masters in Architecture from the University of Houston. In 2006, she founded Laura U Interior Design, bringing her unique vision for Classically Current interiors to life. “Interior design, the way we practice it, is a true luxury,” Laura says. “Every part is crafted by human hands. We take great care to find out what matters to our clients most, and then to articulate that through great design.” Every interior is an authentic reflection of our clients’ passions and values so that just like Laura, they are never without something they enjoy. Laura’s work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, including Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Laura Umansky #64 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #432 LuAnn PTF #491 Books mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Links: Website: Laura U Interior Design Instagram: Laura U Interior Design Pinterest: Laura U Interior Design Facebook: Laura U Interior Design Article Trade Program Mydoma Studio Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan Profit with Window Treatments with Vita Vygovska What Would Lu Do Design Build for Profit with Jenny Slingerland   Tue, 17 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Laura Umansky: Leadership is the Secret Sauce of Success full 492 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Laura Umansky, the principal of Laura U, (episode # 64) joins us once again on the show. Laura very clear about her vision for her firm and she is currently guiding her company to work towards growing from a five-million-dollar firm to... Welcome! Today, Laura Umansky, the principal of Laura U, (episode # 64) joins us once again on the show. Laura very clear about her vision for her firm and she is currently guiding her company to work towards growing from a five-million-dollar firm to a ten-million-dollar firm. In today's episode, Laura explains that, for her, this kind of growth requires a team of outside expert consultants, including an outside CFO, an EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) consultant, and her business advisor, in addition to her internal team. Laura is a true #smartlady, so be sure to listen in today, to hear this outstanding conversation. Laura is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, which is based in Houston, Texas. Her work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, which include Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Laura is also in Carl Dellator's brand new book, On Style: Inspiration and Advice from the New Generation of Interior Design, which was released in the fall of 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laura is ultra-focused and she is a major planner. Nothing happens by accident so you have to be prepared to be lucky. Laura talks about the intentional way that she and her plan for her business to be run. Work begets work. You need to put yourself out there, plan, and get involved with your community, for things to come back to you. Laura is ready to take her firm to the next level. She explains what this means for her. Structuring a business to scale it. Laura describes the kinds of decisions she has to make in her firm. For her first seven years in business, Laura worked without the assistance of any advisors. Laura started working with a business coach four or five years ago. Working with a virtual CFO. Laura has chosen to run her business on the EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) system. The EOS system can even be used for a family! Always doing what's best for the business is vital. How Laura manages to be both the visionary and the integrator for her firm. Laura talks about the processes that are involved in growing her firm from a five-million-dollar company to a ten-million-dollar company. Being a life-long-learners with a growth mindset is important for scaling a business. Laura talks about Carl Dellator's book, On Style, which has just come out. Bio: Laura Umansky is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, a firm based in Houston, TX. Design has always been a part of her life. From a young age, Laura was deeply influenced by her environment, constantly finding ways to arrange her possessions with meaning and purpose. Seeing her father build her childhood home in Seguin, TX was the starting point of her career. “To see that he could do that, create our home with his own two hands…that lit something inside of me,” says Laura, who went on to study art at the University of Texas and subsequently obtain her Masters in Architecture from the University of Houston. In 2006, she founded Laura U Interior Design, bringing her unique vision for Classically Current interiors to life. “Interior design, the way we practice it, is a true luxury,” Laura says. “Every part is crafted by human hands. We take great care to find out what matters to our clients most, and then to articulate that through great design.” Every interior is an authentic reflection of our clients’ passions and values so that just like Laura, they are never without something they enjoy. Laura’s work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, including Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Laura Umansky #64 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #432 LuAnn PTF #491 Books mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Links: Website: Laura U Interior Design Instagram: Laura U Interior Design Pinterest: Laura U Interior Design Facebook: Laura U Interior Design Article Trade Program Mydoma Studio Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan Profit with Window Treatments with Vita Vygovska What Would Lu Do Design Build for Profit with Jenny Slingerland   Welcome! Today, Laura Umansky, the principal of Laura U, (episode # 64) joins us once again on the show. Laura very clear about her vision for her firm and she is currently guiding her company to work towards growing from a five-million-dollar firm to a ten-million-dollar firm. In today's episode, Laura explains that, for her, this kind of growth requires a team of outside expert consultants, including an outside CFO, an EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) consultant, and her business advisor, in addition to her internal team. Laura is a true #smartlady, so be sure to listen in today, to hear this outstanding conversation.

Laura is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, which is based in Houston, Texas. Her work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, which include Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Laura is also in Carl Dellator's brand new book, On Style: Inspiration and Advice from the New Generation of Interior Design,

which was released in the fall of 2019. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Laura is ultra-focused and she is a major planner.
  • Nothing happens by accident so you have to be prepared to be lucky.
  • Laura talks about the intentional way that she and her plan for her business to be run.
  • Work begets work.
  • You need to put yourself out there, plan, and get involved with your community, for things to come back to you.
  • Laura is ready to take her firm to the next level. She explains what this means for her.
  • Structuring a business to scale it.
  • Laura describes the kinds of decisions she has to make in her firm.
  • For her first seven years in business, Laura worked without the assistance of any advisors.
  • Laura started working with a business coach four or five years ago.
  • Working with a virtual CFO.
  • Laura has chosen to run her business on the EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) system.
  • The EOS system can even be used for a family!
  • Always doing what's best for the business is vital.
  • How Laura manages to be both the visionary and the integrator for her firm.
  • Laura talks about the processes that are involved in growing her firm from a five-million-dollar company to a ten-million-dollar company.
  • Being a life-long-learners with a growth mindset is important for scaling a business.
  • Laura talks about Carl Dellator's book, On Style, which has just come out.

Bio:

Laura Umansky is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, a firm based in Houston, TX. Design has always been a part of her life. From a young age, Laura was deeply influenced by her environment, constantly finding ways to arrange her possessions with meaning and purpose. Seeing her father build her childhood home in Seguin, TX was the starting point of her career. “To see that he could do that, create our home with his own two hands…that lit something inside of me,” says Laura, who went on to study art at the University of Texas and subsequently obtain her Masters in Architecture from the University of Houston.

In 2006, she founded Laura U Interior Design, bringing her unique vision for Classically Current interiors to life. “Interior design, the way we practice it, is a true luxury,” Laura says. “Every part is crafted by human hands. We take great care to find out what matters to our clients most, and then to articulate that through great design.” Every interior is an authentic reflection of our clients’ passions and values so that just like Laura, they are never without something they enjoy.

Laura’s work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, including Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Laura Umansky #64

Kimberly Merlitti #361, #432

LuAnn PTF #491

Books mentioned:

Traction by Gino Wickman

Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters

Links:

Website: Laura U Interior Design

Instagram: Laura U Interior Design

Pinterest: Laura U Interior Design

Facebook: Laura U Interior Design

Article Trade Program

Mydoma Studio

Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan

Profit with Window Treatments with Vita Vygovska

What Would Lu Do

Design Build for Profit with Jenny Slingerland

 

]]> 3350 no 491: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Let's Be Profitable in 2020 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/491-power-talk-friday-lets-be-profitable-in-2020 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn will be talking to us about the kinds of problems and obstacles that stand in the way of designers with the running of their design firms. Although everyone is unique, there are still certain themes that play out, and problems that we all tend to share, as entrepreneurs. Listen in today, to learn what you can do to overcome the challenges that we, as designers, all face in our businesses. LuAnn has put a lot of thought into the best way to address these things in a precise way that would benefit each of you the most, as individuals. This has not been an easy task because designers are such a diverse group, with varying levels of experience. In today's episode, LuAnn will teach you how to grow your client base, increase your net profits, improve your business acumen and sharpen your sales skills. She will also talk about goal setting and great ways to expand your network. Be sure to tune in today, to find out how to grow your business in 2020. Show Highlights: You can turn your business around by listening to the podcast. It's your number one free resource! Systemizing every aspect of your business. About Sara Brennan's eight-week course, Process Leads to Profits. How to talk confidently with your clients about window treatments, with Vita's eight-week course. You need to know what you don't know. LuAnn's superpower is sales, which is all about listening. Creating client loyalty and lasting relationships. If you'd like to get inside of LuAnn's brain, whatwouldludo.com will be meeting once a month, live, via Zoom. Go to whatwouldludo.com to sign up. Jenny Slingerland's DesignBuildForProfit course will be starting in February 2020. A great opportunity for #seasoneddesigners. LuAnn Live is coming in November of 2020. Are you going to settle for normal in 2020 or will you strive to be exceptional? Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Darci Hether #220 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Kelsey Gross #167 Kimberley Kay #234 Christine Lin #470 Sara Brennan #463 Links: LuAnn Nigara Process Leads to Profits Profit With Window Treatments Design-Build For Profit Whatwouldludo LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Nigara   Fri, 13 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Let’s be Profitable in 2020! full 491 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn will be talking to us about the kinds of problems and obstacles that stand in the way of designers with the running of their design firms. Although everyone is unique, there are still certain themes that play... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn will be talking to us about the kinds of problems and obstacles that stand in the way of designers with the running of their design firms. Although everyone is unique, there are still certain themes that play out, and problems that we all tend to share, as entrepreneurs. Listen in today, to learn what you can do to overcome the challenges that we, as designers, all face in our businesses. LuAnn has put a lot of thought into the best way to address these things in a precise way that would benefit each of you the most, as individuals. This has not been an easy task because designers are such a diverse group, with varying levels of experience. In today's episode, LuAnn will teach you how to grow your client base, increase your net profits, improve your business acumen and sharpen your sales skills. She will also talk about goal setting and great ways to expand your network. Be sure to tune in today, to find out how to grow your business in 2020. Show Highlights: You can turn your business around by listening to the podcast. It's your number one free resource! Systemizing every aspect of your business. About Sara Brennan's eight-week course, Process Leads to Profits. How to talk confidently with your clients about window treatments, with Vita's eight-week course. You need to know what you don't know. LuAnn's superpower is sales, which is all about listening. Creating client loyalty and lasting relationships. If you'd like to get inside of LuAnn's brain, whatwouldludo.com will be meeting once a month, live, via Zoom. Go to whatwouldludo.com to sign up. Jenny Slingerland's DesignBuildForProfit course will be starting in February 2020. A great opportunity for #seasoneddesigners. LuAnn Live is coming in November of 2020. Are you going to settle for normal in 2020 or will you strive to be exceptional? Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Darci Hether #220 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Kelsey Gross #167 Kimberley Kay #234 Christine Lin #470 Sara Brennan #463 Links: LuAnn Nigara Process Leads to Profits Profit With Window Treatments Design-Build For Profit Whatwouldludo LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Nigara   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn will be talking to us about the kinds of problems and obstacles that stand in the way of designers with the running of their design firms. Although everyone is unique, there are still certain themes that play out, and problems that we all tend to share, as entrepreneurs. Listen in today, to learn what you can do to overcome the challenges that we, as designers, all face in our businesses.

LuAnn has put a lot of thought into the best way to address these things in a precise way that would benefit each of you the most, as individuals. This has not been an easy task because designers are such a diverse group, with varying levels of experience. In today's episode, LuAnn will teach you how to grow your client base, increase your net profits, improve your business acumen and sharpen your sales skills. She will also talk about goal setting and great ways to expand your network. Be sure to tune in today, to find out how to grow your business in 2020.

Show Highlights:

  • You can turn your business around by listening to the podcast. It's your number one free resource!
  • Systemizing every aspect of your business.
  • About Sara Brennan's eight-week course, Process Leads to Profits.
  • How to talk confidently with your clients about window treatments, with Vita's eight-week course.
  • You need to know what you don't know.
  • LuAnn's superpower is sales, which is all about listening.
  • Creating client loyalty and lasting relationships.
  • If you'd like to get inside of LuAnn's brain, whatwouldludo.com will be meeting once a month, live, via Zoom. Go to whatwouldludo.com to sign up.
  • Jenny Slingerland's DesignBuildForProfit course will be starting in February 2020.
  • A great opportunity for #seasoneddesigners.
  • LuAnn Live is coming in November of 2020.
  • Are you going to settle for normal in 2020 or will you strive to be exceptional?

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Darci Hether #220

Darla Powell #203 and #330

Kelsey Gross #167

Kimberley Kay #234

Christine Lin #470

Sara Brennan #463

Links:

LuAnn Nigara

Process Leads to Profits

Profit With Window Treatments

Design-Build For Profit

Whatwouldludo

LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn Nigara

 

]]> 2171 no 490: Britany Simon: Lessons Learned from Doing Interior Design TV Shows http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/490-britany-simon-lessons-learned-from-doing-interior-design-tv-shows Welcome to the show! Today, Britany Simons joins us. Britany founded her full-service design firm, Britany Simon Design House, in 2010. Her work caught the attention of national media and this helped to launch Britany into the world of television and media. In today's episode, she talks to us about her experience of being in the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star. She shares the lessons she's learned from doing the show, and how she applies them today, to her design firm. Be sure to listen in today, to hear about Britany's extensive experience of doing television shows. For the last fifteen years, Britany's design career has covered everything from large-scale commercial renovations to budget-friendly builds, including entire home makeovers. With a degree in Business and Interior Design, Britany's professional career started with working for some of the top design firms in Arizona, where she specialized in kitchen and bath design, as well as the whole construction process, from conception to completion. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital, and print media outlets, Britany has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTC.com, a designer on Travel Channel's hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We're Moving In, on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Britany enjoys supporting and having the support of other designers. Britany discusses how she stumbled into doing TV design shows. Being on TV isn't as glamorous as it looks. Why you don't make good money on TV unless you get into the fifth season of a show. Some of the lessons Britany learned from being on a TV show. TV challenges are very stressful and you have to be self-sufficient and savvy with your resources because you're left to your own devices. You have to be highly organized to pull off a TV challenge. It's a very testing experience. It's very rewarding to complete a TV challenge. Being on TV is not what you would imagine because it's more exciting for the producers if the designer breaks down and falls apart. What Britany learned about herself, as a designer, from being on TV. Being on TV taught Britany to be more efficient and trust her gut. Learning to understand the process of how things are made, and what's involved with the different aspects of a renovation process. Britany gained a lot of confidence from being on TV. Being on TV certainly opened doors for Britany. You need to know what you want from being on TV before you start because it's a huge time commitment. You need to be mindful of where you're putting your energy. Television has been the marketing that Britany has used in her business. Bio: To Britany Simon, the foundation of good design is about the experience that it gives you. She believes in spaces that blend fashion with function and luxury with livability.  With a focus on creating a space that is a reflection of who you are, and an emphasis on how it makes you feel.  Her artistic nature, a penchant for the details, and eye for the unexpected have helped her create incredibly distinguished living spaces and striking commercial projects for her clients. Over the last fifteen years, Britany’s experience has spanned across a vast array of projects – from large-scale commercial renovations to whole home makeovers to budget-friendly builds. Although she has had a lifelong love affair with interior design and architecture, Britany received formal training through her bachelor’s degree in Business & Interior Design. She began her professional career working for some of the top design firms in Arizona where she worked on new residential homes, specializing in both kitchen and bath design, from conception to completion throughout the entire construction process. In 2010, she founded Britany Simon Design House – a full-service design firm. The signature style and unmatched execution of BSDH have garnered a notable client roster with projects all over the country. Additionally, her work has caught the attention of national media and helped launch Britany’s foray into the television and media world. Upon being selected on the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star, Britany discovered a new passion for television and video production. Her natural talent for design and on-camera presence earned her the accolade of “Fan Favorite” from her season. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital and print media outlets, she has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTV.com, a designer on Travel Channel’s hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We’re Moving In on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins airing May 2019. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: #420 Amanda Berlin #478 Amber Roy #297 Mikel Welch #338 Orlando Soria #127 Corey Damen Jenkins #255 Anne Rue #220 Darci Hether #258 Lisa Escobar #182 Christie Leu #296 Ruthie Staalsen #291, #397 Cheryl Luckett #267 Rasheeda Gray #486 Christina Bruce #376 Cat French #463 Sara Brennan Links: Website: Britany Simon Pinterest: Britany Simon Instagram: BRITANY SIMON Facebook: Britany Simon Design   Tue, 10 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Britany Simon: Lessons Learned from Doing Interior Design TV Shows full 490 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today, Britany Simons joins us. Britany founded her full-service design firm, Britany Simon Design House, in 2010. Her work caught the attention of national media and this helped to launch Britany into the world of television and... Welcome to the show! Today, Britany Simons joins us. Britany founded her full-service design firm, Britany Simon Design House, in 2010. Her work caught the attention of national media and this helped to launch Britany into the world of television and media. In today's episode, she talks to us about her experience of being in the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star. She shares the lessons she's learned from doing the show, and how she applies them today, to her design firm. Be sure to listen in today, to hear about Britany's extensive experience of doing television shows. For the last fifteen years, Britany's design career has covered everything from large-scale commercial renovations to budget-friendly builds, including entire home makeovers. With a degree in Business and Interior Design, Britany's professional career started with working for some of the top design firms in Arizona, where she specialized in kitchen and bath design, as well as the whole construction process, from conception to completion. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital, and print media outlets, Britany has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTC.com, a designer on Travel Channel's hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We're Moving In, on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Britany enjoys supporting and having the support of other designers. Britany discusses how she stumbled into doing TV design shows. Being on TV isn't as glamorous as it looks. Why you don't make good money on TV unless you get into the fifth season of a show. Some of the lessons Britany learned from being on a TV show. TV challenges are very stressful and you have to be self-sufficient and savvy with your resources because you're left to your own devices. You have to be highly organized to pull off a TV challenge. It's a very testing experience. It's very rewarding to complete a TV challenge. Being on TV is not what you would imagine because it's more exciting for the producers if the designer breaks down and falls apart. What Britany learned about herself, as a designer, from being on TV. Being on TV taught Britany to be more efficient and trust her gut. Learning to understand the process of how things are made, and what's involved with the different aspects of a renovation process. Britany gained a lot of confidence from being on TV. Being on TV certainly opened doors for Britany. You need to know what you want from being on TV before you start because it's a huge time commitment. You need to be mindful of where you're putting your energy. Television has been the marketing that Britany has used in her business. Bio: To Britany Simon, the foundation of good design is about the experience that it gives you. She believes in spaces that blend fashion with function and luxury with livability.  With a focus on creating a space that is a reflection of who you are, and an emphasis on how it makes you feel.  Her artistic nature, a penchant for the details, and eye for the unexpected have helped her create incredibly distinguished living spaces and striking commercial projects for her clients. Over the last fifteen years, Britany’s experience has spanned across a vast array of projects – from large-scale commercial renovations to whole home makeovers to budget-friendly builds. Although she has had a lifelong love affair with interior design and architecture, Britany received formal training through her bachelor’s degree in Business & Interior Design. She began her professional career working for some of the top design firms in Arizona where she worked on new residential homes, specializing in both kitchen and bath design, from conception to completion throughout the entire construction process. In 2010, she founded Britany Simon Design House – a full-service design firm. The signature style and unmatched execution of BSDH have garnered a notable client roster with projects all over the country. Additionally, her work has caught the attention of national media and helped launch Britany’s foray into the television and media world. Upon being selected on the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star, Britany discovered a new passion for television and video production. Her natural talent for design and on-camera presence earned her the accolade of “Fan Favorite” from her season. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital and print media outlets, she has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTV.com, a designer on Travel Channel’s hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We’re Moving In on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins airing May 2019. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: #420 Amanda Berlin #478 Amber Roy #297 Mikel Welch #338 Orlando Soria #127 Corey Damen Jenkins #255 Anne Rue #220 Darci Hether #258 Lisa Escobar #182 Christie Leu #296 Ruthie Staalsen #291, #397 Cheryl Luckett #267 Rasheeda Gray #486 Christina Bruce #376 Cat French #463 Sara Brennan Links: Website: Britany Simon Pinterest: Britany Simon Instagram: BRITANY SIMON Facebook: Britany Simon Design   Welcome to the show! Today, Britany Simons joins us. Britany founded her full-service design firm, Britany Simon Design House, in 2010. Her work caught the attention of national media and this helped to launch Britany into the world of television and media. In today's episode, she talks to us about her experience of being in the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star. She shares the lessons she's learned from doing the show, and how she applies them today, to her design firm. Be sure to listen in today, to hear about Britany's extensive experience of doing television shows.

For the last fifteen years, Britany's design career has covered everything from large-scale commercial renovations to budget-friendly builds, including entire home makeovers. With a degree in Business and Interior Design, Britany's professional career started with working for some of the top design firms in Arizona, where she specialized in kitchen and bath design, as well as the whole construction process, from conception to completion.

In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital, and print media outlets, Britany has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTC.com, a designer on Travel Channel's hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We're Moving In, on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins. Tune in now, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Britany enjoys supporting and having the support of other designers.
  • Britany discusses how she stumbled into doing TV design shows.
  • Being on TV isn't as glamorous as it looks.
  • Why you don't make good money on TV unless you get into the fifth season of a show.
  • Some of the lessons Britany learned from being on a TV show.
  • TV challenges are very stressful and you have to be self-sufficient and savvy with your resources because you're left to your own devices.
  • You have to be highly organized to pull off a TV challenge. It's a very testing experience.
  • It's very rewarding to complete a TV challenge.
  • Being on TV is not what you would imagine because it's more exciting for the producers if the designer breaks down and falls apart.
  • What Britany learned about herself, as a designer, from being on TV.
  • Being on TV taught Britany to be more efficient and trust her gut.
  • Learning to understand the process of how things are made, and what's involved with the different aspects of a renovation process.
  • Britany gained a lot of confidence from being on TV.
  • Being on TV certainly opened doors for Britany.
  • You need to know what you want from being on TV before you start because it's a huge time commitment.
  • You need to be mindful of where you're putting your energy.
  • Television has been the marketing that Britany has used in her business.

Bio:

To Britany Simon, the foundation of good design is about the experience that it gives you. She believes in spaces that blend fashion with function and luxury with livability.  With a focus on creating a space that is a reflection of who you are, and an emphasis on how it makes you feel.  Her artistic nature, a penchant for the details, and eye for the unexpected have helped her create incredibly distinguished living spaces and striking commercial projects for her clients.

Over the last fifteen years, Britany’s experience has spanned across a vast array of projects – from large-scale commercial renovations to whole home makeovers to budget-friendly builds. Although she has had a lifelong love affair with interior design and architecture, Britany received formal training through her bachelor’s degree in Business & Interior Design. She began her professional career working for some of the top design firms in Arizona where she worked on new residential homes, specializing in both kitchen and bath design, from conception to completion throughout the entire construction process.

In 2010, she founded Britany Simon Design House – a full-service design firm. The signature style and unmatched execution of BSDH have garnered a notable client roster with projects all over the country. Additionally, her work has caught the attention of national media and helped launch Britany’s foray into the television and media world.

Upon being selected on the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star, Britany discovered a new passion for television and video production. Her natural talent for design and on-camera presence earned her the accolade of “Fan Favorite” from her season. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital and print media outlets, she has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTV.com, a designer on Travel Channel’s hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We’re Moving In on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins airing May 2019.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

#420 Amanda Berlin

#478 Amber Roy

#297 Mikel Welch

#338 Orlando Soria

#127 Corey Damen Jenkins

#255 Anne Rue

#220 Darci Hether

#258 Lisa Escobar

#182 Christie Leu

#296 Ruthie Staalsen

#291, #397 Cheryl Luckett

#267 Rasheeda Gray

#486 Christina Bruce

#376 Cat French

#463 Sara Brennan

Links:

Website: Britany Simon

Pinterest: Britany Simon

Instagram: BRITANY SIMON

Facebook: Britany Simon Design

 

]]> 3903 no 489: Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/489-power-talk-friday-brad-clinard-intentional-planning-for-abundant-living Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Brad Clinard, a certified financial planner from High Point, NC, joins us on the show today. Brad, like Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, (episodes #349 and #464) specializes in working with interior designers. He has a very real desire to help the people in our industry, and his approach to finances is different from any other financial planner. He knows that every designer needs to plan for life’s financial challenges, and for their retirement, so he helps them maximize their earnings over their lifetime. He refers to this as intentional planning for abundant living. Be sure to listen in today to find out what Brad does to help designers plan for a life and future that they deserve to have.  Brad graduated from UNC Charlotte, Magna Cum Laude, majoring in Economics with a concentration in Psychology. He was the senior team captain of the tennis team and worked closely with the NCAA advocating for student-athletes. Brad has earned the designation CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Brad is married to Hope, a pastry chef. They attend Wesley Memorial Church in High Point, and they have a passion for missions and service, most recently supporting Youth with a Mission, Casey Cares Foundation and the Old North State Boy Scouts Board. In his “spare” time, Brad enjoys reading, movies, travel, time outdoors and eating great food. His adventures have included hiking the northern half of the Appalachian Trail and the Laugavegur in Iceland. Tune in now, for more. Show Highlights: Brad helps designers with their personal financial planning. We need to learn to understand how to use our money to empower us to live an abundant life. Brad’s parents were in the traditional wealth management industry and they focused on investing. Brad’s experience of growing up in High Point. Brad explains what financial design is all about. Starting with people’s values, rather than with their financial goals. The Designer’s Dozen are twelve challenges that designers face when working with traditional financial planners. Goals are future-focused and temporary, and values are present-focused and permanent. Understanding your values is the first point in getting to know yourself. Brad spends a lot of his time trying to understand how our psychology affects us. From a professional perspective, there are four types of money scripts that everybody falls into- money avoidance, money worship, money status or money vigilance. It can be very challenging for creative-minded designers to find professionals to give them advice and guidance. There are generally four different communication styles. Bridging the gap between the different styles of communication. Why Brad decided to focus on interior designers. How to know when you need the services of a financial planner. Brad gives you the Ten Keys to Financial Foundation. The plans that Brad will create for you. Follow your bliss and plan for an abundant life. A formula for having a less stressful experience of life. Brad has a three-stage process to help clients going through transitions in their lives. Other shows related to finances to go with this show: Peter Lang #349, #464  Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442  Ashley Micciche #468  Diane Gardner #54  Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Michele Williams # 137, #180, #395, and # 424 Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467 Links: Website:  High Point Financial Design  Quiz to learn your money script: High Point Financial Design   Fri, 06 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Brad Clinard: Intentional Planning for Abundant Living full 489 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Brad Clinard, a certified financial planner from High Point, NC, joins us on the show today. Brad, like Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, (episodes #349 and #464) specializes in working with interior designers. He has a very... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Brad Clinard, a certified financial planner from High Point, NC, joins us on the show today. Brad, like Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, (episodes #349 and #464) specializes in working with interior designers. He has a very real desire to help the people in our industry, and his approach to finances is different from any other financial planner. He knows that every designer needs to plan for life’s financial challenges, and for their retirement, so he helps them maximize their earnings over their lifetime. He refers to this as intentional planning for abundant living. Be sure to listen in today to find out what Brad does to help designers plan for a life and future that they deserve to have.  Brad graduated from UNC Charlotte, Magna Cum Laude, majoring in Economics with a concentration in Psychology. He was the senior team captain of the tennis team and worked closely with the NCAA advocating for student-athletes. Brad has earned the designation CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Brad is married to Hope, a pastry chef. They attend Wesley Memorial Church in High Point, and they have a passion for missions and service, most recently supporting Youth with a Mission, Casey Cares Foundation and the Old North State Boy Scouts Board. In his “spare” time, Brad enjoys reading, movies, travel, time outdoors and eating great food. His adventures have included hiking the northern half of the Appalachian Trail and the Laugavegur in Iceland. Tune in now, for more. Show Highlights: Brad helps designers with their personal financial planning. We need to learn to understand how to use our money to empower us to live an abundant life. Brad’s parents were in the traditional wealth management industry and they focused on investing. Brad’s experience of growing up in High Point. Brad explains what financial design is all about. Starting with people’s values, rather than with their financial goals. The Designer’s Dozen are twelve challenges that designers face when working with traditional financial planners. Goals are future-focused and temporary, and values are present-focused and permanent. Understanding your values is the first point in getting to know yourself. Brad spends a lot of his time trying to understand how our psychology affects us. From a professional perspective, there are four types of money scripts that everybody falls into- money avoidance, money worship, money status or money vigilance. It can be very challenging for creative-minded designers to find professionals to give them advice and guidance. There are generally four different communication styles. Bridging the gap between the different styles of communication. Why Brad decided to focus on interior designers. How to know when you need the services of a financial planner. Brad gives you the Ten Keys to Financial Foundation. The plans that Brad will create for you. Follow your bliss and plan for an abundant life. A formula for having a less stressful experience of life. Brad has a three-stage process to help clients going through transitions in their lives. Other shows related to finances to go with this show: Peter Lang #349, #464  Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442  Ashley Micciche #468  Diane Gardner #54  Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Michele Williams # 137, #180, #395, and # 424 Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467 Links: Website:  High Point Financial Design  Quiz to learn your money script: High Point Financial Design   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Brad Clinard, a certified financial planner from High Point, NC, joins us on the show today. Brad, like Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, (episodes #349 and #464) specializes in working with interior designers. He has a very real desire to help the people in our industry, and his approach to finances is different from any other financial planner. He knows that every designer needs to plan for life’s financial challenges, and for their retirement, so he helps them maximize their earnings over their lifetime. He refers to this as intentional planning for abundant living. Be sure to listen in today to find out what Brad does to help designers plan for a life and future that they deserve to have. 

Brad graduated from UNC Charlotte, Magna Cum Laude, majoring in Economics with a concentration in Psychology. He was the senior team captain of the tennis team and worked closely with the NCAA advocating for student-athletes. Brad has earned the designation CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

Brad is married to Hope, a pastry chef. They attend Wesley Memorial Church in High Point, and they have a passion for missions and service, most recently supporting Youth with a Mission, Casey Cares Foundation and the Old North State Boy Scouts Board. In his “spare” time, Brad enjoys reading, movies, travel, time outdoors and eating great food. His adventures have included hiking the northern half of the Appalachian Trail and the Laugavegur in Iceland. Tune in now, for more.

Show Highlights:

  • Brad helps designers with their personal financial planning.
  • We need to learn to understand how to use our money to empower us to live an abundant life.
  • Brad’s parents were in the traditional wealth management industry and they focused on investing.
  • Brad’s experience of growing up in High Point.
  • Brad explains what financial design is all about.
  • Starting with people’s values, rather than with their financial goals.
  • The Designer’s Dozen are twelve challenges that designers face when working with traditional financial planners.
  • Goals are future-focused and temporary, and values are present-focused and permanent.
  • Understanding your values is the first point in getting to know yourself.
  • Brad spends a lot of his time trying to understand how our psychology affects us.
  • From a professional perspective, there are four types of money scripts that everybody falls into- money avoidance, money worship, money status or money vigilance.
  • It can be very challenging for creative-minded designers to find professionals to give them advice and guidance.
  • There are generally four different communication styles.
  • Bridging the gap between the different styles of communication.
  • Why Brad decided to focus on interior designers.
  • How to know when you need the services of a financial planner.
  • Brad gives you the Ten Keys to Financial Foundation.
  • The plans that Brad will create for you.
  • Follow your bliss and plan for an abundant life.
  • A formula for having a less stressful experience of life.
  • Brad has a three-stage process to help clients going through transitions in their lives.

Other shows related to finances to go with this show:

Peter Lang #349, #464 

Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442 

Ashley Micciche #468 

Diane Gardner #54 

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Michele Williams # 137, #180, #395, and # 424

Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467

Links:

Website:  High Point Financial Design 

Quiz to learn your money script: High Point Financial Design

 

]]> 4352 no 488: Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/488-monica-wilcox-systems-create-strength-confidence Welcome! We have Monica Wilcox, the principal of M Wilcox Design, joining us today. Monica is a #seasoneddesigner. She's dynamic, entertaining, and she's on the show to share some of her killer inspiration. She talks to us about coming to grips with her "business midlife crisis", her decision to be on TV, diversifying revenue streams, and setting the rules for yourself first, and then for your clients, to ensure your success as an interior design business owner. Monica is often called on for her advice. She is full of energy and her approach to business and life is truly authentic. You're really going to love her, so be sure to listen in, to hear what she has to share! M Wilcox Design is an award-winning design firm with an emphasis on collaboration. Monica's impeccable eye for design and her in-depth knowledge about project management really sets her apart from other design companies. She has very well-established systems, from the initial design phase all the way through to the final install, and every project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Tune in today, to find out more about Monica and the efficient way that she runs her design firm. Show Highlights: Monica did not start out in business with a foundation for success. She had to teach herself the business side of her business. Some of the core things that designers should be paying attention to when they start a business. Monica started out with a career in the military. There, she learned about determination and discipline. Monica is a believer in staying in her own lane and always hiring people who are good at what they do, to help her get to the top of her game. It's important to hire the top people. Monica explains what she looks for when hiring people. What caused Monica's business mid-life crisis, ten years ago. Finding a new sense of purpose. Transformation is powerful. Figuring out a deeper meaning to what you do. Monica shares her strategies for diversifying revenue streams. Getting on TV happened very easily for Monica. Preparation plus opportunity leads to success. Running with a structured system. There's so much to be learned from events and other designers. Monica explains her fee structure. All about Monica's Design Mecca classes and education. Bio: Interior Designer Monica Wilcox is an expert in delivering unique designs with functionality in mind. Her award-winning design firm creates gorgeous interiors that also offer livable-style with a California twist. With an emphasis on Collaboration, Monica is able to realize the vision of her clients and bring them to life. She has the unique ability to connect with her clients and radiates a tremendous passion for what she does which is contagious to everyone around her. Her impeccable eye for design combined with her in-depth knowledge of project management sets her apart from other interior designers. From initial designs to the final install, each project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Monica is frequently called upon for advice for everything from interior design to business growth to lifestyle tips. She enjoys the art of living fully and completely and is happy to share that with others. With boundless energy, an honest and direct approach, and an infectious spirit, it’s possible that this creative visionary may someday be in every household in America. Monica Wilcox is the founder of Design Mecca, an online learning center that teaches interior designers how to start a successful business. Along with her colleague Nikki Chu, Monica teaches at the accredited online university which features a course broken up into 36 videos and 12 modules that students can work through at their own pace. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Tobi Fairley #419, #440 Nancy Ganzekaufer #389  Ann Rue #255  Sara Brennan #463  Janelle Photopoulos #363  Stacey Brown Randall #93   Links: Website: M Wilcox Design Design Mecca Nikki Chut LuAnn Live Sara Lynn Brennan Course LuAnn's Favorite Resources   Tue, 03 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Monica Wilcox: Systems Create Strength & Confidence full 488 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We have Monica Wilcox, the principal of M Wilcox Design, joining us today. Monica is a #seasoneddesigner. She's dynamic, entertaining, and she's on the show to share some of her killer inspiration. She talks to us about coming to grips with... Welcome! We have Monica Wilcox, the principal of M Wilcox Design, joining us today. Monica is a #seasoneddesigner. She's dynamic, entertaining, and she's on the show to share some of her killer inspiration. She talks to us about coming to grips with her "business midlife crisis", her decision to be on TV, diversifying revenue streams, and setting the rules for yourself first, and then for your clients, to ensure your success as an interior design business owner. Monica is often called on for her advice. She is full of energy and her approach to business and life is truly authentic. You're really going to love her, so be sure to listen in, to hear what she has to share! M Wilcox Design is an award-winning design firm with an emphasis on collaboration. Monica's impeccable eye for design and her in-depth knowledge about project management really sets her apart from other design companies. She has very well-established systems, from the initial design phase all the way through to the final install, and every project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Tune in today, to find out more about Monica and the efficient way that she runs her design firm. Show Highlights: Monica did not start out in business with a foundation for success. She had to teach herself the business side of her business. Some of the core things that designers should be paying attention to when they start a business. Monica started out with a career in the military. There, she learned about determination and discipline. Monica is a believer in staying in her own lane and always hiring people who are good at what they do, to help her get to the top of her game. It's important to hire the top people. Monica explains what she looks for when hiring people. What caused Monica's business mid-life crisis, ten years ago. Finding a new sense of purpose. Transformation is powerful. Figuring out a deeper meaning to what you do. Monica shares her strategies for diversifying revenue streams. Getting on TV happened very easily for Monica. Preparation plus opportunity leads to success. Running with a structured system. There's so much to be learned from events and other designers. Monica explains her fee structure. All about Monica's Design Mecca classes and education. Bio: Interior Designer Monica Wilcox is an expert in delivering unique designs with functionality in mind. Her award-winning design firm creates gorgeous interiors that also offer livable-style with a California twist. With an emphasis on Collaboration, Monica is able to realize the vision of her clients and bring them to life. She has the unique ability to connect with her clients and radiates a tremendous passion for what she does which is contagious to everyone around her. Her impeccable eye for design combined with her in-depth knowledge of project management sets her apart from other interior designers. From initial designs to the final install, each project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Monica is frequently called upon for advice for everything from interior design to business growth to lifestyle tips. She enjoys the art of living fully and completely and is happy to share that with others. With boundless energy, an honest and direct approach, and an infectious spirit, it’s possible that this creative visionary may someday be in every household in America. Monica Wilcox is the founder of Design Mecca, an online learning center that teaches interior designers how to start a successful business. Along with her colleague Nikki Chu, Monica teaches at the accredited online university which features a course broken up into 36 videos and 12 modules that students can work through at their own pace. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Tobi Fairley #419, #440 Nancy Ganzekaufer #389  Ann Rue #255  Sara Brennan #463  Janelle Photopoulos #363  Stacey Brown Randall #93   Links: Website: M Wilcox Design Design Mecca Nikki Chut LuAnn Live Sara Lynn Brennan Course LuAnn's Favorite Resources   Welcome! We have Monica Wilcox, the principal of M Wilcox Design, joining us today. Monica is a #seasoneddesigner. She's dynamic, entertaining, and she's on the show to share some of her killer inspiration. She talks to us about coming to grips with her "business midlife crisis", her decision to be on TV, diversifying revenue streams, and setting the rules for yourself first, and then for your clients, to ensure your success as an interior design business owner. Monica is often called on for her advice. She is full of energy and her approach to business and life is truly authentic. You're really going to love her, so be sure to listen in, to hear what she has to share!

M Wilcox Design is an award-winning design firm with an emphasis on collaboration. Monica's impeccable eye for design and her in-depth knowledge about project management really sets her apart from other design companies. She has very well-established systems, from the initial design phase all the way through to the final install, and every project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Tune in today, to find out more about Monica and the efficient way that she runs her design firm.

Show Highlights:

  • Monica did not start out in business with a foundation for success. She had to teach herself the business side of her business.
  • Some of the core things that designers should be paying attention to when they start a business.
  • Monica started out with a career in the military. There, she learned about determination and discipline.
  • Monica is a believer in staying in her own lane and always hiring people who are good at what they do, to help her get to the top of her game.
  • It's important to hire the top people.
  • Monica explains what she looks for when hiring people.
  • What caused Monica's business mid-life crisis, ten years ago.
  • Finding a new sense of purpose.
  • Transformation is powerful.
  • Figuring out a deeper meaning to what you do.
  • Monica shares her strategies for diversifying revenue streams.
  • Getting on TV happened very easily for Monica.
  • Preparation plus opportunity leads to success.
  • Running with a structured system.
  • There's so much to be learned from events and other designers.
  • Monica explains her fee structure.
  • All about Monica's Design Mecca classes and education.

Bio:

Interior Designer Monica Wilcox is an expert in delivering unique designs with functionality in mind. Her award-winning design firm creates gorgeous interiors that also offer livable-style with a California twist.

With an emphasis on Collaboration, Monica is able to realize the vision of her clients and bring them to life. She has the unique ability to connect with her clients and radiates a tremendous passion for what she does which is contagious to everyone around her.

Her impeccable eye for design combined with her in-depth knowledge of project management sets her apart from other interior designers. From initial designs to the final install, each project is executed with precision and exceptional quality.

Monica is frequently called upon for advice for everything from interior design to business growth to lifestyle tips. She enjoys the art of living fully and completely and is happy to share that with others. With boundless energy, an honest and direct approach, and an infectious spirit, it’s possible that this creative visionary may someday be in every household in America.

Monica Wilcox is the founder of Design Mecca, an online learning center that teaches interior designers how to start a successful business. Along with her colleague Nikki Chu, Monica teaches at the accredited online university which features a course broken up into 36 videos and 12 modules that students can work through at their own pace.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Tobi Fairley #419, #440

Nancy Ganzekaufer #389 

Ann Rue #255 

Sara Brennan #463 

Janelle Photopoulos #363 

Stacey Brown Randall #93  

Links:

Website: M Wilcox Design

Design Mecca

Nikki Chut

LuAnn Live

Sara Lynn Brennan Course

LuAnn's Favorite Resources

 

]]> 4528 no 487: Power Talk Friday: Vanessa Shepherd: Pinterest Strategies to Grow Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/487-power-talk-friday-vanessa-shepherd-pinterest-strategies-to-grow-your-interior-design-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Vanessa Shepherd, the owner of She's Got Vision, on the show with us today. Vanessa is all about efficiency. She has won awards, she has been recognized in her community and she knows just how busy most creative business owners are. In today's episode, she talks to us about how hard it is for creative entrepreneurs to find the time to get everything done in their businesses, especially if they have a family to manage as well. She shares strategies for growing your design business through Pinterest and some really helpful tips for managing your time so that you can live a little too. She also explains what you need to do to really stand out from the crowd, so be sure to tune in, to find out more. Vanessa graduated from NAIT with honors for her degree in Business Administration. She is a content marketing professional and she helps business owners to be seen, increase the traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships. Her specialty is social media marketing, and she loves to use Pinterest as a platform for visibility. Listen in today, to benefit from Vanessa's wisdom and experience. Show Highlights: Vanessa loves to be as efficient as possible. There's a big update coming for Pinterest. Vanessa explains what a pin title is, on Pinterest. Pinterest wants to make titles more purposeful. Later is a great scheduling tool. Pinterest is an important search engine. Some strategies for using Pinterest to drive potential clients to your website. Allowing someone else to help you have the time to do what you do best. Video is big everywhere on social media right now. Pinterest can be used as a good cross-promotion tactic. Some tips to capture people's attention in the first three to fifteen seconds of a video. Good quality photos are a must on social media. The process of pinning. Find content that can educate, inspire, or entertain your audience. Showcasing your work in multiple ways to drive more traffic to your website. Being consistent with your pins is very important. Vanessa has a Pinterest audit that you can download for free on her website. Go to She's Got Vision How Vanessa helps people improve their strategies for social media. Bio: Vanessa Shepherd is a content marketing professional at She's Got Vision, helping business owners to get visible, drive traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships with their audiences. Vanessa specializes in social media marketing, and her favorite platform for visibility is Pinterest! She graduated with honors from NAIT with a degree in Business Administration and from the University of Alberta with a master's in Communications and Technology. When she's not creating strategies, running ads or pinning her heart out, you can find Vanessa traveling and gardening with her husband and their two Airedale Terriers. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza #385 Summer Tannhauser #292 Allison Fannin #223 Kate Ahl # 331 Links: Website: primary: She's Got Vision Blog  course microsite: learn.shesgotvision.com  Blog: She's Got Vision Blog LuAnn Live Article: welldesigned.article.com Kirsch: kirsch.com Instagram: She's Got Vision Facebook: She's Got Vision Pinterest: She's Got Vision Free Pinterest audit checklist: She's Got Vision   Fri, 29 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Vanessa Shepherd: Pinterest Strategies to Grow Your Interior Design Business full 487 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Vanessa Shepherd, the owner of She's Got Vision, on the show with us today. Vanessa is all about efficiency. She has won awards, she has been recognized in her community and she knows just how busy most creative... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Vanessa Shepherd, the owner of She's Got Vision, on the show with us today. Vanessa is all about efficiency. She has won awards, she has been recognized in her community and she knows just how busy most creative business owners are. In today's episode, she talks to us about how hard it is for creative entrepreneurs to find the time to get everything done in their businesses, especially if they have a family to manage as well. She shares strategies for growing your design business through Pinterest and some really helpful tips for managing your time so that you can live a little too. She also explains what you need to do to really stand out from the crowd, so be sure to tune in, to find out more. Vanessa graduated from NAIT with honors for her degree in Business Administration. She is a content marketing professional and she helps business owners to be seen, increase the traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships. Her specialty is social media marketing, and she loves to use Pinterest as a platform for visibility. Listen in today, to benefit from Vanessa's wisdom and experience. Show Highlights: Vanessa loves to be as efficient as possible. There's a big update coming for Pinterest. Vanessa explains what a pin title is, on Pinterest. Pinterest wants to make titles more purposeful. Later is a great scheduling tool. Pinterest is an important search engine. Some strategies for using Pinterest to drive potential clients to your website. Allowing someone else to help you have the time to do what you do best. Video is big everywhere on social media right now. Pinterest can be used as a good cross-promotion tactic. Some tips to capture people's attention in the first three to fifteen seconds of a video. Good quality photos are a must on social media. The process of pinning. Find content that can educate, inspire, or entertain your audience. Showcasing your work in multiple ways to drive more traffic to your website. Being consistent with your pins is very important. Vanessa has a Pinterest audit that you can download for free on her website. Go to She's Got Vision How Vanessa helps people improve their strategies for social media. Bio: Vanessa Shepherd is a content marketing professional at She's Got Vision, helping business owners to get visible, drive traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships with their audiences. Vanessa specializes in social media marketing, and her favorite platform for visibility is Pinterest! She graduated with honors from NAIT with a degree in Business Administration and from the University of Alberta with a master's in Communications and Technology. When she's not creating strategies, running ads or pinning her heart out, you can find Vanessa traveling and gardening with her husband and their two Airedale Terriers. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza #385 Summer Tannhauser #292 Allison Fannin #223 Kate Ahl # 331 Links: Website: primary: She's Got Vision Blog  course microsite: learn.shesgotvision.com  Blog: She's Got Vision Blog LuAnn Live Article: welldesigned.article.com Kirsch: kirsch.com Instagram: She's Got Vision Facebook: She's Got Vision Pinterest: She's Got Vision Free Pinterest audit checklist: She's Got Vision   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Vanessa Shepherd, the owner of She's Got Vision, on the show with us today. Vanessa is all about efficiency. She has won awards, she has been recognized in her community and she knows just how busy most creative business owners are. In today's episode, she talks to us about how hard it is for creative entrepreneurs to find the time to get everything done in their businesses, especially if they have a family to manage as well. She shares strategies for growing your design business through Pinterest and some really helpful tips for managing your time so that you can live a little too. She also explains what you need to do to really stand out from the crowd, so be sure to tune in, to find out more.

Vanessa graduated from NAIT with honors for her degree in Business Administration. She is a content marketing professional and she helps business owners to be seen, increase the traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships. Her specialty is social media marketing, and she loves to use Pinterest as a platform for visibility. Listen in today, to benefit from Vanessa's wisdom and experience.

Show Highlights:

  • Vanessa loves to be as efficient as possible.
  • There's a big update coming for Pinterest.
  • Vanessa explains what a pin title is, on Pinterest.
  • Pinterest wants to make titles more purposeful.
  • Later is a great scheduling tool.
  • Pinterest is an important search engine.
  • Some strategies for using Pinterest to drive potential clients to your website.
  • Allowing someone else to help you have the time to do what you do best.
  • Video is big everywhere on social media right now.
  • Pinterest can be used as a good cross-promotion tactic.
  • Some tips to capture people's attention in the first three to fifteen seconds of a video.
  • Good quality photos are a must on social media.
  • The process of pinning.
  • Find content that can educate, inspire, or entertain your audience.
  • Showcasing your work in multiple ways to drive more traffic to your website.
  • Being consistent with your pins is very important.
  • Vanessa has a Pinterest audit that you can download for free on her website. Go to She's Got Vision
  • How Vanessa helps people improve their strategies for social media.

Bio:

Vanessa Shepherd is a content marketing professional at She's Got Vision, helping business owners to get visible, drive traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships with their audiences. Vanessa specializes in social media marketing, and her favorite platform for visibility is Pinterest! She graduated with honors from NAIT with a degree in Business Administration and from the University of Alberta with a master's in Communications and Technology. When she's not creating strategies, running ads or pinning her heart out, you can find Vanessa traveling and gardening with her husband and their two Airedale Terriers.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Amber De La Garza #385

Summer Tannhauser #292

Allison Fannin #223

Kate Ahl # 331

Links:

Website: primary: She's Got Vision Blog 

course microsite: learn.shesgotvision.com 

Blog: She's Got Vision Blog

LuAnn Live

Article: welldesigned.article.com

Kirsch: kirsch.com

Instagram: She's Got Vision

Facebook: She's Got Vision

Pinterest: She's Got Vision

Free Pinterest audit checklist: She's Got Vision

 

]]> 4342 no 486: Christina Bruce: The Courage to Take Action Changed her Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/486-christina-bruce-the-courage-to-take-action-changed-her-interior-design-business Welcome! Today, we have Christina Bruce, the principal of Christina Bruce Interiors in Vero Beach, Florida, with us on the show. Christina was one of the VIP attendees at the LuAnn Live, It's About the Conversation event, earlier this year. LuAnn asked each VIP to let her know, in the months following the event, what they have done and achieved based on what they learned, and the people they met there. So, Christina messaged LuAnn recently, with a long list of the positive things she identified in herself and her business, from the event. In today's episode, she shares the serious questions she had been asking herself about her business, before attending LuAnn Live. She then goes on to describe the things she put into action and the remarkable 180 degrees turn around that she created in her business, as a result of attending the event. Listen in, to hear about the incredible way that Christine transformed her business. Christina started her company in Savannah, in 2009. She then completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Christina received an award for excellence for the work she did on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce during this time, and she was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The love of her hometown, Vero Beach, drew her back there in 2012. Christina has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach, and by helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas, New York, and internationally. Tune in today, to learn about the lessons that Christina has learned and the actions she's taken to transform her business. Show highlights: Christina explains why she decided to go to the LuAnn Live event. Attending LuAnn live pulled Christina out of the negative head-space that she had been in before attending the event. LuAnn Live was like a designer's support group for Christine. Christina talks about the significant conversation she had with Taylor Spellman. Learning to look at her motivation, rather than her goals. Parenting always takes priority. Cat and Christine keep on learning together. Some of the actions that Christine has taken. Christine's experience is in high-end residential design. Becoming successful within the demographics of where you live. What Christine learned from Dala al Fuwaires. There will always be times when the things we do don't work. You have to risk failure to succeed. There are some things you should never fake. Christina describes the Christina Bruce Collection, for David Francis Furniture. Talking about partnerships. Podcast green is a wonderful color! Bio: Christina Bruce graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The Interior Design program at SCAD has been consistently ranked as the number one program in the nation. It is here that Christina not only formed a strong foundation of design principles, but also a true passion for interior design.  She formed her own company in Savannah in 2009 and completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. During this time, she received an award for excellence for her work on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. She was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC’s Extreme Make-Over: Home Edition where she helped complete the design of the dining room and master bedroom of the home being featured. Savannah’s charm enriched her experience, but the love of her hometown of Vero Beach drew her family home in 2012. In her time in Vero Beach, she has worked with some of the finest architects and builders which has helped to shape her corporate philosophy and relationship with clients. She has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by not only working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach but also helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas and New York, as well as internationally. She looks forward to many years of successful relationships and projects with the clients and communities with which she is fortunate to work. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Vanessa DeLeon # 18 Dala al Fuwaires # 392 Taylor Spellman #467, 106 Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84, 102 Cat French #376 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #15 Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466 Kae Whitaker #114, 259, 274 Michele Williams #180, 395    Carolyn Flannery #453 Links: LuAnn Live LuAnn Nigara Book Power Talk Friday Link to IG post announcing color collection PodGreen named for me David Francis Furniture Clem Schaub Architect Vero Beach Florida Christina Bruce Interiors     Tue, 26 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Christina Bruce: The Courage to Take Action Changed her Interior Design Business full 486 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we have Christina Bruce, the principal of Christina Bruce Interiors in Vero Beach, Florida, with us on the show. Christina was one of the VIP attendees at the LuAnn Live, It's About the Conversation event, earlier this year. LuAnn... Welcome! Today, we have Christina Bruce, the principal of Christina Bruce Interiors in Vero Beach, Florida, with us on the show. Christina was one of the VIP attendees at the LuAnn Live, It's About the Conversation event, earlier this year. LuAnn asked each VIP to let her know, in the months following the event, what they have done and achieved based on what they learned, and the people they met there. So, Christina messaged LuAnn recently, with a long list of the positive things she identified in herself and her business, from the event. In today's episode, she shares the serious questions she had been asking herself about her business, before attending LuAnn Live. She then goes on to describe the things she put into action and the remarkable 180 degrees turn around that she created in her business, as a result of attending the event. Listen in, to hear about the incredible way that Christine transformed her business. Christina started her company in Savannah, in 2009. She then completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Christina received an award for excellence for the work she did on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce during this time, and she was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The love of her hometown, Vero Beach, drew her back there in 2012. Christina has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach, and by helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas, New York, and internationally. Tune in today, to learn about the lessons that Christina has learned and the actions she's taken to transform her business. Show highlights: Christina explains why she decided to go to the LuAnn Live event. Attending LuAnn live pulled Christina out of the negative head-space that she had been in before attending the event. LuAnn Live was like a designer's support group for Christine. Christina talks about the significant conversation she had with Taylor Spellman. Learning to look at her motivation, rather than her goals. Parenting always takes priority. Cat and Christine keep on learning together. Some of the actions that Christine has taken. Christine's experience is in high-end residential design. Becoming successful within the demographics of where you live. What Christine learned from Dala al Fuwaires. There will always be times when the things we do don't work. You have to risk failure to succeed. There are some things you should never fake. Christina describes the Christina Bruce Collection, for David Francis Furniture. Talking about partnerships. Podcast green is a wonderful color! Bio: Christina Bruce graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The Interior Design program at SCAD has been consistently ranked as the number one program in the nation. It is here that Christina not only formed a strong foundation of design principles, but also a true passion for interior design.  She formed her own company in Savannah in 2009 and completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. During this time, she received an award for excellence for her work on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. She was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC’s Extreme Make-Over: Home Edition where she helped complete the design of the dining room and master bedroom of the home being featured. Savannah’s charm enriched her experience, but the love of her hometown of Vero Beach drew her family home in 2012. In her time in Vero Beach, she has worked with some of the finest architects and builders which has helped to shape her corporate philosophy and relationship with clients. She has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by not only working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach but also helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas and New York, as well as internationally. She looks forward to many years of successful relationships and projects with the clients and communities with which she is fortunate to work. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Vanessa DeLeon # 18 Dala al Fuwaires # 392 Taylor Spellman #467, 106 Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84, 102 Cat French #376 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #15 Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466 Kae Whitaker #114, 259, 274 Michele Williams #180, 395    Carolyn Flannery #453 Links: LuAnn Live LuAnn Nigara Book Power Talk Friday Link to IG post announcing color collection PodGreen named for me David Francis Furniture Clem Schaub Architect Vero Beach Florida Christina Bruce Interiors     Welcome! Today, we have Christina Bruce, the principal of Christina Bruce Interiors in Vero Beach, Florida, with us on the show. Christina was one of the VIP attendees at the LuAnn Live, It's About the Conversation event, earlier this year. LuAnn asked each VIP to let her know, in the months following the event, what they have done and achieved based on what they learned, and the people they met there. So, Christina messaged LuAnn recently, with a long list of the positive things she identified in herself and her business, from the event. In today's episode, she shares the serious questions she had been asking herself about her business, before attending LuAnn Live. She then goes on to describe the things she put into action and the remarkable 180 degrees turn around that she created in her business, as a result of attending the event. Listen in, to hear about the incredible way that Christine transformed her business.

Christina started her company in Savannah, in 2009. She then completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Christina received an award for excellence for the work she did on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce during this time, and she was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

The love of her hometown, Vero Beach, drew her back there in 2012. Christina has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach, and by helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas, New York, and internationally. Tune in today, to learn about the lessons that Christina has learned and the actions she's taken to transform her business.

Show highlights:

  • Christina explains why she decided to go to the LuAnn Live event.
  • Attending LuAnn live pulled Christina out of the negative head-space that she had been in before attending the event.
  • LuAnn Live was like a designer's support group for Christine.
  • Christina talks about the significant conversation she had with Taylor Spellman.
  • Learning to look at her motivation, rather than her goals.
  • Parenting always takes priority.
  • Cat and Christine keep on learning together.
  • Some of the actions that Christine has taken.
  • Christine's experience is in high-end residential design.
  • Becoming successful within the demographics of where you live.
  • What Christine learned from Dala al Fuwaires.
  • There will always be times when the things we do don't work.
  • You have to risk failure to succeed.
  • There are some things you should never fake.
  • Christina describes the Christina Bruce Collection, for David Francis Furniture.
  • Talking about partnerships.
  • Podcast green is a wonderful color!

Bio:

Christina Bruce graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The Interior Design program at SCAD has been consistently ranked as the number one program in the nation. It is here that Christina not only formed a strong foundation of design principles, but also a true passion for interior design.  She formed her own company in Savannah in 2009 and completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. During this time, she received an award for excellence for her work on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. She was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC’s Extreme Make-Over: Home Edition where she helped complete the design of the dining room and master bedroom of the home being featured. Savannah’s charm enriched her experience, but the love of her hometown of Vero Beach drew her family home in 2012.

In her time in Vero Beach, she has worked with some of the finest architects and builders which has helped to shape her corporate philosophy and relationship with clients. She has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by not only working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach but also helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas and New York, as well as internationally. She looks forward to many years of successful relationships and projects with the clients and communities with which she is fortunate to work.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Vanessa DeLeon # 18

Dala al Fuwaires # 392

Taylor Spellman #467, 106

Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84, 102

Cat French #376

Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #15

Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466

Kae Whitaker #114, 259, 274

Michele Williams #180, 395   

Carolyn Flannery #453

Links:

LuAnn Live

LuAnn Nigara Book

Power Talk Friday

Link to IG post announcing color collection PodGreen named for me

David Francis Furniture

Clem Schaub Architect Vero Beach Florida

Christina Bruce Interiors

 

 

]]> 3941 no 485: Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/485-power-talk-friday-claire-jefford-rock-the-consult-0 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Claire Jefford joins us on the show once again today! Claire is an interior decorator, business coach, leader of the designer Facebook group Interior Design Business Strategies, a vlogger, and author of a chapter called Managing Client Expectations in LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power talk Friday Experts, Volume 1. In today's episode, Claire takes us through her initial process. She shares her wealth of information about the best practices for handling all aspects of consultations with clients. Listen in today to learn how to set the tone for success right from the outset. Claire started her award-winning decorating firm in 2011, and in 2017, she started a second business as a business coach. She is passionate about having organized processes, marketing, and creating videos. She was voted #3 Top Influencer in 2018, and she runs an active Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, with more than 3000 design professionals from around the world. Tune in now for more! Show highlights: Being upfront about the way that you work. Managing your clients' expectations, educating your clients, and communicating effectively. Claire talks about her templated email system. Setting the tone right from the start. Claire always asks for payment upfront for consultations. Keeping clear logs of everything. 3-D design is the way to go! Claire talks about what she brings with her to consultations. Helping people as much as possible in two hours. Clients like structure. You have to let your clients know what you do. Little things can go a long way. Confidence is key! Claire has some fabulous packages available. Claire explains what WidWil is all about. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Maria Killam #58 Fred Berns #174 John and Theresa Dorlini (Circle Design Studio) #380 Claire was previously in episodes #237 and #325 Links: Website - https://clairejefford.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairejefforddesigns/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessstrategies/ Blog post Claire mentioned in the show: https://clairejefford.com/3d-renderings-for-interior-designers/ The Initial Phone Call: 5 Must-Ask Questions - https://clairejefford.com/initial-phone-call/ Kirsch: kirsch.com Article: welldesigned.article.com LuAnn Live: luannlive.com LuAnn's Favorite Resources: luannnigara.com/resources Fri, 22 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Claire Jefford: Rock the Consult full 485 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Claire Jefford joins us on the show once again today! Claire is an interior decorator, business coach, leader of the designer Facebook group Interior Design Business Strategies, a vlogger, and author of a chapter called... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Claire Jefford joins us on the show once again today! Claire is an interior decorator, business coach, leader of the designer Facebook group Interior Design Business Strategies, a vlogger, and author of a chapter called Managing Client Expectations in LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power talk Friday Experts, Volume 1. In today's episode, Claire takes us through her initial process. She shares her wealth of information about the best practices for handling all aspects of consultations with clients. Listen in today to learn how to set the tone for success right from the outset. Claire started her award-winning decorating firm in 2011, and in 2017, she started a second business as a business coach. She is passionate about having organized processes, marketing, and creating videos. She was voted #3 Top Influencer in 2018, and she runs an active Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, with more than 3000 design professionals from around the world. Tune in now for more! Show highlights: Being upfront about the way that you work. Managing your clients' expectations, educating your clients, and communicating effectively. Claire talks about her templated email system. Setting the tone right from the start. Claire always asks for payment upfront for consultations. Keeping clear logs of everything. 3-D design is the way to go! Claire talks about what she brings with her to consultations. Helping people as much as possible in two hours. Clients like structure. You have to let your clients know what you do. Little things can go a long way. Confidence is key! Claire has some fabulous packages available. Claire explains what WidWil is all about. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Maria Killam #58 Fred Berns #174 John and Theresa Dorlini (Circle Design Studio) #380 Claire was previously in episodes #237 and #325 Links: Website - https://clairejefford.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairejefforddesigns/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessstrategies/ Blog post Claire mentioned in the show: https://clairejefford.com/3d-renderings-for-interior-designers/ The Initial Phone Call: 5 Must-Ask Questions - https://clairejefford.com/initial-phone-call/ Kirsch: kirsch.com Article: welldesigned.article.com LuAnn Live: luannlive.com LuAnn's Favorite Resources: luannnigara.com/resources Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Claire Jefford joins us on the show once again today! Claire is an interior decorator, business coach, leader of the designer Facebook group Interior Design Business Strategies, a vlogger, and author of a chapter called Managing Client Expectations in LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power talk Friday Experts, Volume 1. In today's episode, Claire takes us through her initial process. She shares her wealth of information about the best practices for handling all aspects of consultations with clients. Listen in today to learn how to set the tone for success right from the outset.

Claire started her award-winning decorating firm in 2011, and in 2017, she started a second business as a business coach. She is passionate about having organized processes, marketing, and creating videos. She was voted #3 Top Influencer in 2018, and she runs an active Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, with more than 3000 design professionals from around the world. Tune in now for more!

Show highlights:

  • Being upfront about the way that you work.
  • Managing your clients' expectations, educating your clients, and communicating effectively.
  • Claire talks about her templated email system.
  • Setting the tone right from the start.
  • Claire always asks for payment upfront for consultations.
  • Keeping clear logs of everything.
  • 3-D design is the way to go!
  • Claire talks about what she brings with her to consultations.
  • Helping people as much as possible in two hours.
  • Clients like structure.
  • You have to let your clients know what you do.
  • Little things can go a long way.
  • Confidence is key!
  • Claire has some fabulous packages available.
  • Claire explains what WidWil is all about.

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Maria Killam #58

Fred Berns #174

John and Theresa Dorlini (Circle Design Studio) #380

Claire was previously in episodes #237 and #325

Links:

Website - https://clairejefford.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairejefforddesigns/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessstrategies/

Blog post Claire mentioned in the show: https://clairejefford.com/3d-renderings-for-interior-designers/

The Initial Phone Call: 5 Must-Ask Questions - https://clairejefford.com/initial-phone-call/

Kirsch: kirsch.com

Article: welldesigned.article.com

LuAnn Live: luannlive.com

LuAnn's Favorite Resources: luannnigara.com/resources

]]> 5106 no 484: Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/484-laurence-carr-design-your-business-plan Welcome! Today, we have Laurence Carr, the CEO of Laurence Carr Design, with us on the show. Although Laurence opened her design firm just a short eighteen months ago, she is already running it with the clarity of a seasoned CEO. She has a very well-structured business plan and her goals are right in front of her. In today's episode, she explains how she managed to get her business up and running so quickly and she also shares with us her well-thought-out business plan. Laurence is truly an impressive businesswoman so be sure to listen in today, to learn about the clear and intentional way she runs her business. Laurence is helping to shape our cultural dialogue through her work, her speaking engagements, and her blog, "Beyond Aesthetics". Her focus is on combining sustainability with quality, and she is a GREEN Leaders Accredited Professional, and a Member of the Sustainable Furnishing Council. She is is a leading voice in the field of Holistic Interior Design and she's been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Business of Home, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Sotheby’s Home, House Tipster and Style Matters. Laurence won the BUILD awards from Homes and Gardens UK in 2019, and she was nominated for the ASID National Awards 2019 for “Design for Humanity”. In March of this year, she was invited to be one of the 30 speakers of the Circular City Week in New York. And this summer, Laurence Carr Design successfully unveiled "The Restorative Room", in Southampton New York, for the Hampton Designers Showhouse 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laurence talks about the advisory board that she recruited to help with business strategy. It helps to get advice from people outside of your industry. Everything that Laurence does is done with clear intention. Laurence wanted to build a business with multiple revenue streams. Thinking about the impact of stress on people's lives. Considering not only how things look, but also how they feel, when making choices. Working with Leslie and Sam, of Savour Partnership. About the immense value that Laurence found in creating her e-boutique. How Laurence grew her email list. Working with freelance designers. Laurence talks about her interview process. The systems and processes she uses in making selections for her e-boutique. Earning money on the side, from affiliate marketing. It all comes down to the systems you use. It's very important to keep your goals in front of you. Bio: Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer,  stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design. Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents. Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125 Andrew Joseph #39 Dennis Scully #459 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Links: Website: Laurence Carr Facebook: Laurence Carr Design Instagram: Laurence Carr Design YouTube: Laurence Carr   Tue, 19 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan full 484 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we have Laurence Carr, the CEO of Laurence Carr Design, with us on the show. Although Laurence opened her design firm just a short eighteen months ago, she is already running it with the clarity of a seasoned CEO. She has a very... Welcome! Today, we have Laurence Carr, the CEO of Laurence Carr Design, with us on the show. Although Laurence opened her design firm just a short eighteen months ago, she is already running it with the clarity of a seasoned CEO. She has a very well-structured business plan and her goals are right in front of her. In today's episode, she explains how she managed to get her business up and running so quickly and she also shares with us her well-thought-out business plan. Laurence is truly an impressive businesswoman so be sure to listen in today, to learn about the clear and intentional way she runs her business. Laurence is helping to shape our cultural dialogue through her work, her speaking engagements, and her blog, "Beyond Aesthetics". Her focus is on combining sustainability with quality, and she is a GREEN Leaders Accredited Professional, and a Member of the Sustainable Furnishing Council. She is is a leading voice in the field of Holistic Interior Design and she's been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Business of Home, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Sotheby’s Home, House Tipster and Style Matters. Laurence won the BUILD awards from Homes and Gardens UK in 2019, and she was nominated for the ASID National Awards 2019 for “Design for Humanity”. In March of this year, she was invited to be one of the 30 speakers of the Circular City Week in New York. And this summer, Laurence Carr Design successfully unveiled "The Restorative Room", in Southampton New York, for the Hampton Designers Showhouse 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laurence talks about the advisory board that she recruited to help with business strategy. It helps to get advice from people outside of your industry. Everything that Laurence does is done with clear intention. Laurence wanted to build a business with multiple revenue streams. Thinking about the impact of stress on people's lives. Considering not only how things look, but also how they feel, when making choices. Working with Leslie and Sam, of Savour Partnership. About the immense value that Laurence found in creating her e-boutique. How Laurence grew her email list. Working with freelance designers. Laurence talks about her interview process. The systems and processes she uses in making selections for her e-boutique. Earning money on the side, from affiliate marketing. It all comes down to the systems you use. It's very important to keep your goals in front of you. Bio: Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer,  stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design. Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents. Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125 Andrew Joseph #39 Dennis Scully #459 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Links: Website: Laurence Carr Facebook: Laurence Carr Design Instagram: Laurence Carr Design YouTube: Laurence Carr   Welcome! Today, we have Laurence Carr, the CEO of Laurence Carr Design, with us on the show. Although Laurence opened her design firm just a short eighteen months ago, she is already running it with the clarity of a seasoned CEO. She has a very well-structured business plan and her goals are right in front of her. In today's episode, she explains how she managed to get her business up and running so quickly and she also shares with us her well-thought-out business plan. Laurence is truly an impressive businesswoman so be sure to listen in today, to learn about the clear and intentional way she runs her business.

Laurence is helping to shape our cultural dialogue through her work, her speaking engagements, and her blog, "Beyond Aesthetics". Her focus is on combining sustainability with quality, and she is a GREEN Leaders Accredited Professional, and a Member of the Sustainable Furnishing Council. She is is a leading voice in the field of Holistic Interior Design and she's been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Business of Home, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Sotheby’s Home, House Tipster and Style Matters. Laurence won the BUILD awards from Homes and Gardens UK in 2019, and she was nominated for the ASID National Awards 2019 for “Design for Humanity”. In March of this year, she was invited to be one of the 30 speakers of the Circular City Week in New York. And this summer, Laurence Carr Design successfully unveiled "The Restorative Room", in Southampton New York, for the Hampton Designers Showhouse 2019. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Laurence talks about the advisory board that she recruited to help with business strategy.
  • It helps to get advice from people outside of your industry.
  • Everything that Laurence does is done with clear intention.
  • Laurence wanted to build a business with multiple revenue streams.
  • Thinking about the impact of stress on people's lives.
  • Considering not only how things look, but also how they feel, when making choices.
  • Working with Leslie and Sam, of Savour Partnership.
  • About the immense value that Laurence found in creating her e-boutique.
  • How Laurence grew her email list.
  • Working with freelance designers.
  • Laurence talks about her interview process.
  • The systems and processes she uses in making selections for her e-boutique.
  • Earning money on the side, from affiliate marketing.
  • It all comes down to the systems you use.
  • It's very important to keep your goals in front of you.

Bio:

Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer,  stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design.

Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents.

Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125

Andrew Joseph #39

Dennis Scully #459

Savour Partnership #209 and #458

Links:

Website: Laurence Carr

Facebook: Laurence Carr Design

Instagram: Laurence Carr Design

YouTube: Laurence Carr

 

]]> 4229 no 483: Power Talk Friday: Wendy Cohen: PowerHouse Advisors and The PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/483-power-talk-friday-wendy-cohen-powerhouse-advisors-and-the-powerhouse-smart-luxury-conference Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Wendy Cohen today. Wendy is the founder and CEO of a suite of Powerhouse Companies comprising of PowerHouse Advisors, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART, a luxury industry education and networking leadership community, and PowerHouse Recruiting, which is a division of the consultancy, PowerHouse Advisors. This expert group of companies is committed to serving the best people in the luxury industry by teaching and speaking to them about luxury, and educating them about new luxury technologies. Wendy herself is a powerhouse lady, and in today's episode, she talks to us about building a company culture, creating a complete customer experience, and what it takes to get ahead in business. She also discusses the Luxury Home Conference that is coming up in Chicago, in February, where she has invited LuAnn to be the keynote speaker. Listen in today, to find out what this dynamic and special lady has to share! The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006. It is recognized most for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the fields of design, build, and development, across the US and in Canada. PowerHouse SMART was also formed in 2006. It was intended to power-up the very best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building, to lead to business collaborations, new business development, referrals, knowledge sharing, and cutting-edge education. Then, in 2015, PowerHouse Recruiting was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors, to continue with the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance that was established under the consultancy umbrella. Tune in today, to learn what it takes to win in the arena of luxury design, build. Show Highlights: Wendy started her career as a realtor. Wendy was part of a four-person team in a building company that grew the company from having ten employees to eventually having 120 people working there. Creating a culture in her company. Great success for builders doesn't come overnight but it is possible. Growing the design, build concept. Teaching her sales team about the complete experience was the thing differentiated from any other builder that a consumer might be going to, in 1989. You don't brand yourself. Your audience brands you. Treating sub-contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers with respect, as if they are part of your company. In 1995-1996, Professional Builder Magazine named Wendy's company one of the best eight companies to work for in the nation. Being selected by Custom Builder Magazine as Custom Builder of the Year. The satisfying way that Wendy's vision for the company became contagious. Consulting with other companies to teach and advise them about systems, processes, and how to replicate Wendy's success. For ten or eleven years, Wendy's main focus was on business development. Consulting about recruiting, and helping everybody grow, is where Wendy finds herself today. Wendy views the placements that she makes within other companies as a reflection of her reputation. Wendy talks about PowerHouse Smart. This is how she gives back to her community. Wendy is all about sharing and giving. Every month, PowerHouse Smarts had one big event, called the Builder Architect Hard-Hat Tour. PowerHouse Smart is always looking to grow like-minded individuals. This is why they host a Luxury Conference every year. The next PowerHouse Smart Luxury Home Conference is being held on February 5th, 2020, in Chicago. LuAnn has been invited to be the keynote speaker. Wendy explains what will be happening at the upcoming Luxury Home conference. Bio: Wendy Cohen CEO PowerHouse Companies PowerHouse Advisors, LLC PowerHouse SMART® PowerHouse Recruiting, LLC Wendy Cohen is the CEO and Founder of the PowerHouse Group of Companies comprised of PowerHouse Advisors™, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART®, a luxury industry education & networking leadership community and PowerHouse Recruiting, a division of the consultancy PowerHouse Advisors™ LLC. The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006 where it is most notably recognized for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the design, build and development arena across the nation and in Canada. PowerHouse Advisors’ profound impact is working with owners and senior managers in refining business development efforts, implementing process improvement platforms, developing operating systems and procedures, properly managing and executing manpower and creating strategic growth plans. PowerHouse SMART® also formed in 2006 was intended to power-up the best of the best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building leading to business collaborations, new business development, referrals (give and get), knowledge sharing and cutting-edge education. From the onset, the goal was to bring all the talents needed to create an ultimate luxury project and educate on the value of collaboration at the highest level. Today PowerHouse SMART® supports leaders in the industry in growing their businesses with over 30 events a year, an Annual Luxury Conference and a robust online connection website. While PHS operates in the United States Midwest Market, there has been discussion for future plans for expansion via franchise opportunities tying other local luxury market chapters to the headquarters in Chicago. PowerHouse Recruiting™ was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors in 2015, to continue the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance established under the consultancy umbrella. PHR as a dedicated division can help more employers and career-minded candidates find the perfect fit for continued success and growth. PowerHouse Recruiting is unique in that recruiting services are performed as if the employer owner was personally conducting the screening and recruitment process. PowerHouse Recruiting has proven results in supporting trusted colleagues in the luxury design, build, develop and real estate industry in hiring top talent from CFO to Design Assistant. Wendy Cohen has over 30 years of luxury industry experience and is often referred to as the ultimate power connector, with an exceptional network among top-tier professionals. PHR connects the right people (top talent candidates) to the right career opportunities (employer client’s job openings). PHR believes there is such a thing as a perfect fit. The PowerHouse Group of Companies is dedicated to being experts in the luxury industry by teaching luxury, speaking about luxury, educating on new luxury technologies, building new relationships every day, and proudly serving the best people in the industry. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Claire Staszak #166 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Links: Conference Registration: Power House Smart Instagram: Power House Smart Facebook: Power House Smart LinkedIn: Power House Smart PowerHouse Smart   Fri, 15 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Wendy Cohen: PowerHouse Advisors and The PowerHouse Smart Luxury Conference full 483 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Wendy Cohen today. Wendy is the founder and CEO of a suite of Powerhouse Companies comprising of PowerHouse Advisors, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART, a luxury industry education... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Wendy Cohen today. Wendy is the founder and CEO of a suite of Powerhouse Companies comprising of PowerHouse Advisors, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART, a luxury industry education and networking leadership community, and PowerHouse Recruiting, which is a division of the consultancy, PowerHouse Advisors. This expert group of companies is committed to serving the best people in the luxury industry by teaching and speaking to them about luxury, and educating them about new luxury technologies. Wendy herself is a powerhouse lady, and in today's episode, she talks to us about building a company culture, creating a complete customer experience, and what it takes to get ahead in business. She also discusses the Luxury Home Conference that is coming up in Chicago, in February, where she has invited LuAnn to be the keynote speaker. Listen in today, to find out what this dynamic and special lady has to share! The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006. It is recognized most for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the fields of design, build, and development, across the US and in Canada. PowerHouse SMART was also formed in 2006. It was intended to power-up the very best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building, to lead to business collaborations, new business development, referrals, knowledge sharing, and cutting-edge education. Then, in 2015, PowerHouse Recruiting was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors, to continue with the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance that was established under the consultancy umbrella. Tune in today, to learn what it takes to win in the arena of luxury design, build. Show Highlights: Wendy started her career as a realtor. Wendy was part of a four-person team in a building company that grew the company from having ten employees to eventually having 120 people working there. Creating a culture in her company. Great success for builders doesn't come overnight but it is possible. Growing the design, build concept. Teaching her sales team about the complete experience was the thing differentiated from any other builder that a consumer might be going to, in 1989. You don't brand yourself. Your audience brands you. Treating sub-contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers with respect, as if they are part of your company. In 1995-1996, Professional Builder Magazine named Wendy's company one of the best eight companies to work for in the nation. Being selected by Custom Builder Magazine as Custom Builder of the Year. The satisfying way that Wendy's vision for the company became contagious. Consulting with other companies to teach and advise them about systems, processes, and how to replicate Wendy's success. For ten or eleven years, Wendy's main focus was on business development. Consulting about recruiting, and helping everybody grow, is where Wendy finds herself today. Wendy views the placements that she makes within other companies as a reflection of her reputation. Wendy talks about PowerHouse Smart. This is how she gives back to her community. Wendy is all about sharing and giving. Every month, PowerHouse Smarts had one big event, called the Builder Architect Hard-Hat Tour. PowerHouse Smart is always looking to grow like-minded individuals. This is why they host a Luxury Conference every year. The next PowerHouse Smart Luxury Home Conference is being held on February 5th, 2020, in Chicago. LuAnn has been invited to be the keynote speaker. Wendy explains what will be happening at the upcoming Luxury Home conference. Bio: Wendy Cohen CEO PowerHouse Companies PowerHouse Advisors, LLC PowerHouse SMART® PowerHouse Recruiting, LLC Wendy Cohen is the CEO and Founder of the PowerHouse Group of Companies comprised of PowerHouse Advisors™, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART®, a luxury industry education & networking leadership community and PowerHouse Recruiting, a division of the consultancy PowerHouse Advisors™ LLC. The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006 where it is most notably recognized for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the design, build and development arena across the nation and in Canada. PowerHouse Advisors’ profound impact is working with owners and senior managers in refining business development efforts, implementing process improvement platforms, developing operating systems and procedures, properly managing and executing manpower and creating strategic growth plans. PowerHouse SMART® also formed in 2006 was intended to power-up the best of the best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building leading to business collaborations, new business development, referrals (give and get), knowledge sharing and cutting-edge education. From the onset, the goal was to bring all the talents needed to create an ultimate luxury project and educate on the value of collaboration at the highest level. Today PowerHouse SMART® supports leaders in the industry in growing their businesses with over 30 events a year, an Annual Luxury Conference and a robust online connection website. While PHS operates in the United States Midwest Market, there has been discussion for future plans for expansion via franchise opportunities tying other local luxury market chapters to the headquarters in Chicago. PowerHouse Recruiting™ was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors in 2015, to continue the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance established under the consultancy umbrella. PHR as a dedicated division can help more employers and career-minded candidates find the perfect fit for continued success and growth. PowerHouse Recruiting is unique in that recruiting services are performed as if the employer owner was personally conducting the screening and recruitment process. PowerHouse Recruiting has proven results in supporting trusted colleagues in the luxury design, build, develop and real estate industry in hiring top talent from CFO to Design Assistant. Wendy Cohen has over 30 years of luxury industry experience and is often referred to as the ultimate power connector, with an exceptional network among top-tier professionals. PHR connects the right people (top talent candidates) to the right career opportunities (employer client’s job openings). PHR believes there is such a thing as a perfect fit. The PowerHouse Group of Companies is dedicated to being experts in the luxury industry by teaching luxury, speaking about luxury, educating on new luxury technologies, building new relationships every day, and proudly serving the best people in the industry. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Claire Staszak #166 Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466 Links: Conference Registration: Power House Smart Instagram: Power House Smart Facebook: Power House Smart LinkedIn: Power House Smart PowerHouse Smart   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Wendy Cohen today. Wendy is the founder and CEO of a suite of Powerhouse Companies comprising of PowerHouse Advisors, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART, a luxury industry education and networking leadership community, and PowerHouse Recruiting, which is a division of the consultancy, PowerHouse Advisors. This expert group of companies is committed to serving the best people in the luxury industry by teaching and speaking to them about luxury, and educating them about new luxury technologies. Wendy herself is a powerhouse lady, and in today's episode, she talks to us about building a company culture, creating a complete customer experience, and what it takes to get ahead in business. She also discusses the Luxury Home Conference that is coming up in Chicago, in February, where she has invited LuAnn to be the keynote speaker. Listen in today, to find out what this dynamic and special lady has to share!

The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006. It is recognized most for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the fields of design, build, and development, across the US and in Canada. PowerHouse SMART was also formed in 2006. It was intended to power-up the very best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building, to lead to business collaborations, new business development, referrals, knowledge sharing, and cutting-edge education. Then, in 2015, PowerHouse Recruiting was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors, to continue with the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance that was established under the consultancy umbrella. Tune in today, to learn what it takes to win in the arena of luxury design, build.

Show Highlights:

  • Wendy started her career as a realtor.
  • Wendy was part of a four-person team in a building company that grew the company from having ten employees to eventually having 120 people working there.
  • Creating a culture in her company.
  • Great success for builders doesn't come overnight but it is possible.
  • Growing the design, build concept.
  • Teaching her sales team about the complete experience was the thing differentiated from any other builder that a consumer might be going to, in 1989.
  • You don't brand yourself. Your audience brands you.
  • Treating sub-contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers with respect, as if they are part of your company.
  • In 1995-1996, Professional Builder Magazine named Wendy's company one of the best eight companies to work for in the nation.
  • Being selected by Custom Builder Magazine as Custom Builder of the Year.
  • The satisfying way that Wendy's vision for the company became contagious.
  • Consulting with other companies to teach and advise them about systems, processes, and how to replicate Wendy's success.
  • For ten or eleven years, Wendy's main focus was on business development.
  • Consulting about recruiting, and helping everybody grow, is where Wendy finds herself today.
  • Wendy views the placements that she makes within other companies as a reflection of her reputation.
  • Wendy talks about PowerHouse Smart. This is how she gives back to her community.
  • Wendy is all about sharing and giving.
  • Every month, PowerHouse Smarts had one big event, called the Builder Architect Hard-Hat Tour.
  • PowerHouse Smart is always looking to grow like-minded individuals. This is why they host a Luxury Conference every year.
  • The next PowerHouse Smart Luxury Home Conference is being held on February 5th, 2020, in Chicago. LuAnn has been invited to be the keynote speaker.
  • Wendy explains what will be happening at the upcoming Luxury Home conference.

Bio:

Wendy Cohen CEO

PowerHouse Companies

PowerHouse Advisors, LLC

PowerHouse SMART®

PowerHouse Recruiting, LLC

Wendy Cohen is the CEO and Founder of the PowerHouse Group of Companies comprised of PowerHouse Advisors™, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART®, a luxury industry education & networking leadership community and PowerHouse Recruiting, a division of the consultancy PowerHouse Advisors™ LLC.

The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006 where it is most notably recognized for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the design, build and development arena across the nation and in Canada. PowerHouse Advisors’ profound impact is working with owners and senior managers in refining business development efforts, implementing process improvement platforms, developing operating systems and procedures, properly managing and executing manpower and creating strategic growth plans.

PowerHouse SMART® also formed in 2006 was intended to power-up the best of the best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building leading to business collaborations, new business development, referrals (give and get), knowledge sharing and cutting-edge education. From the onset, the goal was to bring all the talents needed to create an ultimate luxury project and educate on the value of collaboration at the highest level. Today PowerHouse SMART® supports leaders in the industry in growing their businesses with over 30 events a year, an Annual Luxury Conference and a robust online connection website. While PHS operates in the United States Midwest Market, there has been discussion for future plans for expansion via franchise opportunities tying other local luxury market chapters to the headquarters in Chicago.

PowerHouse Recruiting™ was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors in 2015, to continue the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance established under the consultancy umbrella. PHR as a dedicated division can help more employers and career-minded candidates find the perfect fit for continued success and growth.

PowerHouse Recruiting is unique in that recruiting services are performed as if the employer owner was personally conducting the screening and recruitment process. PowerHouse Recruiting has proven results in supporting trusted colleagues in the luxury design, build, develop and real estate industry in hiring top talent from CFO to Design Assistant. Wendy Cohen has over 30 years of luxury industry experience and is often referred to as the ultimate power connector, with an exceptional network among top-tier professionals. PHR connects the right people (top talent candidates) to the right career opportunities (employer client’s job openings). PHR believes there is such a thing as a perfect fit.

The PowerHouse Group of Companies is dedicated to being experts in the luxury industry by teaching luxury, speaking about luxury, educating on new luxury technologies, building new relationships every day, and proudly serving the best people in the industry.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Claire Staszak #166

Nicole Heymer #125, #317, and #466

Links:

Conference Registration: Power House Smart

Instagram: Power House Smart

Facebook: Power House Smart

LinkedIn: Power House Smart

PowerHouse Smart

 

]]> 4178 no 482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/482-cheryl-clendenon-small-business-think-big Welcome! Today we have Cheryl Clendenon, the CEO of the Florida-based design firm, In Detail Interiors, with us on the show. Cheryl is one of our industry’s boldest, smartest, and funniest ladies, and she’s always willing to generously share her business expertise and advice with those who would like to learn from her. In today’s episode, she offers some very valuable advice about crafting conversations and steering them to where you want them to go. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share.   Cheryl is a master of sales. She's a truly outstanding professional who has been in business for more than 19 years. She operates a full-service design firm, a retail location, and a business Facebook group and she understands she has to make her money intentionally, rather than with luck or by accident. Tune in today, to get some priceless tips from Cheryl. Show Highlights: The copy on Cheryl’s website is awesome! You need to know your audience. Carefully considering what your website says about you. Learning to guide your clients down your path. There are many people are too timid to reveal their personalities on their website. This is very limiting. Cheryl has an incredible Facebook group, called Small Business Think Big. How to best position your design firm. It all starts with the way you present yourself on your website. Learning to not be afraid to talk about money. Projecting your income. People tend to be a little resistant to the idea of minimum expenditure at first. The nuances of how to get what you want. Sales is a win-win game. Positioning yourself in the very best way possible. Giving added value is a formula for success. Cheryl explains what her training focuses on. Cheryl looks at how much money she’s going to make on every job she does. For Cheryl, the words have to be right. Cheryl helps you think big about your small business. Cheryl’s fees are based on a combination of design fees + a contracted minimum expenditure on products Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Chris Ramey #345 Links: LuAnn Nigara Resources Vita’s course link: Profit With Window Treatments Sara’s course link: Process Leads to Profits My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Well Designed Article In Detail Interiors Cheryl’s FB Group: Small Business Think Big Cheryl's Instagram: In Detail Interiors Cheryl's Pinterest: In Detail Interiors LuAnn’s FB Group Tue, 12 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big full 482 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Cheryl Clendenon, the CEO of the Florida-based design firm, In Detail Interiors, with us on the show. Cheryl is one of our industry’s boldest, smartest, and funniest ladies, and she’s always willing to generously share her... Welcome! Today we have Cheryl Clendenon, the CEO of the Florida-based design firm, In Detail Interiors, with us on the show. Cheryl is one of our industry’s boldest, smartest, and funniest ladies, and she’s always willing to generously share her business expertise and advice with those who would like to learn from her. In today’s episode, she offers some very valuable advice about crafting conversations and steering them to where you want them to go. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share.   Cheryl is a master of sales. She's a truly outstanding professional who has been in business for more than 19 years. She operates a full-service design firm, a retail location, and a business Facebook group and she understands she has to make her money intentionally, rather than with luck or by accident. Tune in today, to get some priceless tips from Cheryl. Show Highlights: The copy on Cheryl’s website is awesome! You need to know your audience. Carefully considering what your website says about you. Learning to guide your clients down your path. There are many people are too timid to reveal their personalities on their website. This is very limiting. Cheryl has an incredible Facebook group, called Small Business Think Big. How to best position your design firm. It all starts with the way you present yourself on your website. Learning to not be afraid to talk about money. Projecting your income. People tend to be a little resistant to the idea of minimum expenditure at first. The nuances of how to get what you want. Sales is a win-win game. Positioning yourself in the very best way possible. Giving added value is a formula for success. Cheryl explains what her training focuses on. Cheryl looks at how much money she’s going to make on every job she does. For Cheryl, the words have to be right. Cheryl helps you think big about your small business. Cheryl’s fees are based on a combination of design fees + a contracted minimum expenditure on products Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Chris Ramey #345 Links: LuAnn Nigara Resources Vita’s course link: Profit With Window Treatments Sara’s course link: Process Leads to Profits My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Well Designed Article In Detail Interiors Cheryl’s FB Group: Small Business Think Big Cheryl's Instagram: In Detail Interiors Cheryl's Pinterest: In Detail Interiors LuAnn’s FB Group Welcome! Today we have Cheryl Clendenon, the CEO of the Florida-based design firm, In Detail Interiors, with us on the show. Cheryl is one of our industry’s boldest, smartest, and funniest ladies, and she’s always willing to generously share her business expertise and advice with those who would like to learn from her. In today’s episode, she offers some very valuable advice about crafting conversations and steering them to where you want them to go. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share.  

Cheryl is a master of sales. She's a truly outstanding professional who has been in business for more than 19 years. She operates a full-service design firm, a retail location, and a business Facebook group and she understands she has to make her money intentionally, rather than with luck or by accident. Tune in today, to get some priceless tips from Cheryl.

Show Highlights:

  • The copy on Cheryl’s website is awesome!
  • You need to know your audience.
  • Carefully considering what your website says about you.
  • Learning to guide your clients down your path.
  • There are many people are too timid to reveal their personalities on their website. This is very limiting.
  • Cheryl has an incredible Facebook group, called Small Business Think Big.
  • How to best position your design firm.
  • It all starts with the way you present yourself on your website.
  • Learning to not be afraid to talk about money.
  • Projecting your income.
  • People tend to be a little resistant to the idea of minimum expenditure at first.
  • The nuances of how to get what you want.
  • Sales is a win-win game.
  • Positioning yourself in the very best way possible.
  • Giving added value is a formula for success.
  • Cheryl explains what her training focuses on.
  • Cheryl looks at how much money she’s going to make on every job she does.
  • For Cheryl, the words have to be right.
  • Cheryl helps you think big about your small business.
  • Cheryl’s fees are based on a combination of design fees + a contracted minimum expenditure on products

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Chris Ramey #345

Links: LuAnn Nigara Resources

Vita’s course link: Profit With Window Treatments

Sara’s course link: Process Leads to Profits

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Well Designed Article

In Detail Interiors

Cheryl’s FB Group: Small Business Think Big

Cheryl's Instagram: In Detail Interiors

Cheryl's Pinterest: In Detail Interiors

LuAnn’s FB Group

]]> 4839 no 481: Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/481-window-treatment-friday-overview-of-hard-and-soft-window-treatments Welcome to Window Treatment Friday! Today’s show is brought to you by Kirsch.com, our newest sponsor. Last week, we learned from Matt Johnson, the National Sales Manager, and  Sarah Frost, the Brand Manager, for Kirsch Drapery Hardware, how the Kirsch team is on a mission to breathe new life into their company, which is more than a hundred years old. And today, we have some big news! If you would like to learn more about window treatments so that you can incorporate them into your business as an added revenue stream, Vita and LuAnn have the answer for you! Vita will be teaching an eight-week course, called Window Treatments and Profits for Designers, starting in January. Listen in, to find out more. Vita and LuAnn know just how profitable window treatments are. They want to share their knowledge and experience with you so that you can also develop the skills and confidence you need to make a profit from window treatments. The Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course will meet via Zoom so this means that you can be anywhere in the world to do it. You either can join Vita live, in real-time, or you can watch the replay at your convenience, and still get all the magic. The course will be run in conjunction with a private Facebook group, for support and extra time to answer questions. We will be opening the course in the next week or two, so go to Luann Nigara Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments, and leave us your email address so that you can be first in line when the registration opens. In today’s episode, we will be talking about the different types and categories of window treatments. There’s a myriad of different custom window treatments available out there, so Vita’s way of simplifying things is to break everything down into two main categories- hard and soft window treatments. Vita and LuAnn will then give us an overview of the different types of window treatments in each category, listing and explaining the various types of treatments and the pros and cons of each one. Be sure to tune in today, to hear what they have to share.      Show Highlights: Vita gives her personal take on hard window treatments overall, as a category. Generally, hard treatments consist of blinds, shades, and shutters. The main purpose of hard treatments is functionality, which is usually light control, privacy, or glare control. Vita explains what soft treatments are. Although soft treatments are generally there to add to the aesthetic value of a room, they can still be functional. The pros and cons of blinds. The rebirth of roller shades. Comfortex will supply cellular shades in any color. Talking about shutters. Woven wood shades are very popular with designers. The different types of soft treatments in the category. LuAnn explains what she likes about drapery panels. Roman shades are very versatile. Some useful resources for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Kirsch #479 Links: LuAnn Nigara Vitalia Inc Kirsch Kravet Inc My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Exciting Windows WCAA Window Fashion IWCE Vision Window Works To sign up for the Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course, go to Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments For a free PDF download of this episode, go to LuAnn Nigara. Fri, 08 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments full 481 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Window Treatment Friday! Today’s show is brought to you by Kirsch.com, our newest sponsor. Last week, we learned from Matt Johnson, the National Sales Manager, and  Sarah Frost, the Brand Manager, for Kirsch Drapery Hardware, how the... Welcome to Window Treatment Friday! Today’s show is brought to you by Kirsch.com, our newest sponsor. Last week, we learned from Matt Johnson, the National Sales Manager, and  Sarah Frost, the Brand Manager, for Kirsch Drapery Hardware, how the Kirsch team is on a mission to breathe new life into their company, which is more than a hundred years old. And today, we have some big news! If you would like to learn more about window treatments so that you can incorporate them into your business as an added revenue stream, Vita and LuAnn have the answer for you! Vita will be teaching an eight-week course, called Window Treatments and Profits for Designers, starting in January. Listen in, to find out more. Vita and LuAnn know just how profitable window treatments are. They want to share their knowledge and experience with you so that you can also develop the skills and confidence you need to make a profit from window treatments. The Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course will meet via Zoom so this means that you can be anywhere in the world to do it. You either can join Vita live, in real-time, or you can watch the replay at your convenience, and still get all the magic. The course will be run in conjunction with a private Facebook group, for support and extra time to answer questions. We will be opening the course in the next week or two, so go to Luann Nigara Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments, and leave us your email address so that you can be first in line when the registration opens. In today’s episode, we will be talking about the different types and categories of window treatments. There’s a myriad of different custom window treatments available out there, so Vita’s way of simplifying things is to break everything down into two main categories- hard and soft window treatments. Vita and LuAnn will then give us an overview of the different types of window treatments in each category, listing and explaining the various types of treatments and the pros and cons of each one. Be sure to tune in today, to hear what they have to share.      Show Highlights: Vita gives her personal take on hard window treatments overall, as a category. Generally, hard treatments consist of blinds, shades, and shutters. The main purpose of hard treatments is functionality, which is usually light control, privacy, or glare control. Vita explains what soft treatments are. Although soft treatments are generally there to add to the aesthetic value of a room, they can still be functional. The pros and cons of blinds. The rebirth of roller shades. Comfortex will supply cellular shades in any color. Talking about shutters. Woven wood shades are very popular with designers. The different types of soft treatments in the category. LuAnn explains what she likes about drapery panels. Roman shades are very versatile. Some useful resources for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Kirsch #479 Links: LuAnn Nigara Vitalia Inc Kirsch Kravet Inc My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Exciting Windows WCAA Window Fashion IWCE Vision Window Works To sign up for the Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course, go to Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments For a free PDF download of this episode, go to LuAnn Nigara. Welcome to Window Treatment Friday! Today’s show is brought to you by Kirsch.com, our newest sponsor. Last week, we learned from Matt Johnson, the National Sales Manager, and  Sarah Frost, the Brand Manager, for Kirsch Drapery Hardware, how the Kirsch team is on a mission to breathe new life into their company, which is more than a hundred years old. And today, we have some big news! If you would like to learn more about window treatments so that you can incorporate them into your business as an added revenue stream, Vita and LuAnn have the answer for you! Vita will be teaching an eight-week course, called Window Treatments and Profits for Designers, starting in January. Listen in, to find out more.

Vita and LuAnn know just how profitable window treatments are. They want to share their knowledge and experience with you so that you can also develop the skills and confidence you need to make a profit from window treatments. The Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course will meet via Zoom so this means that you can be anywhere in the world to do it. You either can join Vita live, in real-time, or you can watch the replay at your convenience, and still get all the magic. The course will be run in conjunction with a private Facebook group, for support and extra time to answer questions. We will be opening the course in the next week or two, so go to Luann Nigara Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments, and leave us your email address so that you can be first in line when the registration opens.

In today’s episode, we will be talking about the different types and categories of window treatments. There’s a myriad of different custom window treatments available out there, so Vita’s way of simplifying things is to break everything down into two main categories- hard and soft window treatments. Vita and LuAnn will then give us an overview of the different types of window treatments in each category, listing and explaining the various types of treatments and the pros and cons of each one. Be sure to tune in today, to hear what they have to share.     

Show Highlights:

  • Vita gives her personal take on hard window treatments overall, as a category.
  • Generally, hard treatments consist of blinds, shades, and shutters.
  • The main purpose of hard treatments is functionality, which is usually light control, privacy, or glare control.
  • Vita explains what soft treatments are.
  • Although soft treatments are generally there to add to the aesthetic value of a room, they can still be functional.
  • The pros and cons of blinds.
  • The rebirth of roller shades.
  • Comfortex will supply cellular shades in any color.
  • Talking about shutters.
  • Woven wood shades are very popular with designers.
  • The different types of soft treatments in the category.
  • LuAnn explains what she likes about drapery panels.
  • Roman shades are very versatile.
  • Some useful resources for you.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Kirsch #479

Links:

LuAnn Nigara

Vitalia Inc

Kirsch

Kravet Inc

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Exciting Windows

WCAA

Window Fashion

IWCE Vision

Window Works

To sign up for the Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course, go to Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments

For a free PDF download of this episode, go to LuAnn Nigara.

]]> 4115 no 480: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/480-chris-loves-julia-quality-content-creation-is-key-to-their-success Welcome! Today, Julia Marcum, half of the dynamic duo of Chris Loves Julia, joins us on the show. Julia started blogging more ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done. In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. This particular component is vital to your success as a business owner, so be sure to listen in today, to hear what Julia has to share. Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more. Show Highlights: Julia explains how she and Chris came to realize that they should combine their talents and work on the blog together, on a full-time basis. Creating the right kind of content to post on Instagram. Knowing what you want to be known for. What you’ll find on their blog, and what you’ll find in their Instagram stories. There are zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence. Creating consistent, quality content based around your niche. Consistency and quality content is key to getting lots of Instagram followers. Julia doesn’t have a photography background and yet she took all her own photos until three months ago. Figuring out photography. Educating your photographer about what you want. Being intentional about the look that you’re creating in your photos. Julia explains why people are following her. The difference between just posting a picture, and creating content. Choosing where to best utilize your energy. The best way to connect with your Instagram Stories audience. Julia talks about the two courses she teaches, Working With Brands and Growing Your Influence. Links: Website: Chris Loves Julia Instagram: Chris Loves Julia Propertee: Chris Loves Julia Facebook: Chris Loves Julia Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia Youtube: Chris Loves Julia Good Influencer Good Influencer on Instagram Link Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174 People who inspire Julia: Jessica Helgerson Interior Design Instagram: Josh young Design House Don’t forget when you place your next order on any Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim, to use the code AWDB10 at checkout, to get 10% off any one purchase.  Go to Kravet to place your order. Tue, 05 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success full 480 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Julia Marcum, half of the dynamic duo of Chris Loves Julia, joins us on the show. Julia started blogging more ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a... Welcome! Today, Julia Marcum, half of the dynamic duo of Chris Loves Julia, joins us on the show. Julia started blogging more ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done. In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. This particular component is vital to your success as a business owner, so be sure to listen in today, to hear what Julia has to share. Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more. Show Highlights: Julia explains how she and Chris came to realize that they should combine their talents and work on the blog together, on a full-time basis. Creating the right kind of content to post on Instagram. Knowing what you want to be known for. What you’ll find on their blog, and what you’ll find in their Instagram stories. There are zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence. Creating consistent, quality content based around your niche. Consistency and quality content is key to getting lots of Instagram followers. Julia doesn’t have a photography background and yet she took all her own photos until three months ago. Figuring out photography. Educating your photographer about what you want. Being intentional about the look that you’re creating in your photos. Julia explains why people are following her. The difference between just posting a picture, and creating content. Choosing where to best utilize your energy. The best way to connect with your Instagram Stories audience. Julia talks about the two courses she teaches, Working With Brands and Growing Your Influence. Links: Website: Chris Loves Julia Instagram: Chris Loves Julia Propertee: Chris Loves Julia Facebook: Chris Loves Julia Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia Youtube: Chris Loves Julia Good Influencer Good Influencer on Instagram Link Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174 People who inspire Julia: Jessica Helgerson Interior Design Instagram: Josh young Design House Don’t forget when you place your next order on any Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim, to use the code AWDB10 at checkout, to get 10% off any one purchase.  Go to Kravet to place your order. Welcome! Today, Julia Marcum, half of the dynamic duo of Chris Loves Julia, joins us on the show. Julia started blogging more ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done. In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. This particular component is vital to your success as a business owner, so be sure to listen in today, to hear what Julia has to share.

Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more.

Show Highlights:

  • Julia explains how she and Chris came to realize that they should combine their talents and work on the blog together, on a full-time basis.
  • Creating the right kind of content to post on Instagram.
  • Knowing what you want to be known for.
  • What you’ll find on their blog, and what you’ll find in their Instagram stories.
  • There are zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence.
  • Creating consistent, quality content based around your niche.
  • Consistency and quality content is key to getting lots of Instagram followers.
  • Julia doesn’t have a photography background and yet she took all her own photos until three months ago.
  • Figuring out photography.
  • Educating your photographer about what you want.
  • Being intentional about the look that you’re creating in your photos.
  • Julia explains why people are following her.
  • The difference between just posting a picture, and creating content.
  • Choosing where to best utilize your energy.
  • The best way to connect with your Instagram Stories audience.
  • Julia talks about the two courses she teaches, Working With Brands and Growing Your Influence.

Links:

Website: Chris Loves Julia

Instagram: Chris Loves Julia

Propertee: Chris Loves Julia

Facebook: Chris Loves Julia

Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia

Youtube: Chris Loves Julia

Good Influencer

Good Influencer on Instagram

Link Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174

People who inspire Julia:

Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

Instagram: Josh young Design House

Don’t forget when you place your next order on any Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim, to use the code AWDB10 at checkout, to get 10% off any one purchase.  Go to Kravet to place your order.

]]> 4839 no 479: Power Talk Friday: Kirsch: Breathing New Life into a 112 Year Old Company http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/479-power-talk-friday-kirsch-breathing-new-life-into-a-112-year-old-company Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday! Today, we're introducing you to Kirsch, our newest sponsor for A Well-Designed Business. Kirsch has been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. For today's episode, we have Matt Johnson and Sarah Frost with us to talk to us about the latest innovations that Kirsch is bringing to the design and window treatment community, so tune in, to find out more! Kirsch was started in 1907 when Charles Kirsch invented the first curtain rod and telescoping rod. His goal was to connect with people around his fantastic products. Soon after inventing his innovative curtain rods, Charles published his first style book,  to guide purchasers of drapery hanging specialties.  The first Kirsch patented lace curtain rod was created in 1923, and then Charles designed the deluxe cut-to-measure drapery, which was one of the most important developments in drapery hardware history. For the next fifty years, the Kirsch brand continued to incorporate many more innovative advancements that would change our industry forever. Matt Johnson is the National Sales Manager of Kirsch Drapery Hardware. He leads a team of experienced sales professionals representing over 100 years of the Kirsch brand. Over his 22 years in the window coverings industry, Matt has sales experience in multiple channels of business including National Retailers, Independent Retailers, Builders, Contract and Commercial Accounts and Distributors.  His rich background and understanding of the window coverings industry have allowed him to apply his passion for working with business owners and designers to develop sales and marketing strategies to improve sales and service. Sarah Frost is the Brand Manager for Kirsch Drapery Hardware. She oversees a talented team that creates conceptual designs and implementation of the marketing initiatives for the drapery hardware launches and projects. Sarah has experience in hard window coverings as well as drapery hardware from her previous positions as a product manager and in sales. Listen in today to find out what Matt and Sarah have to share about our newest sponsor, the Kirsch brand. Show Highlights: Matt gives us a synopsis of Kirsch, and it's long and rich history in the window coverings industry Sarah has lots of fresh, new ideas for the Kirsch brand. Breathing new life into the brand through engaging with the trade. There are currently so many new and improved drapery hardware options available. Kirsch provides great resources to educate the design community about their complicated product. Sarah discusses how she and her team are revising and revamping the way their products are produced and presented. It all starts with the numbers. Keeping abreast of the latest trends. Creating a digital price list has made all the difference. The new styles and colors that Kirsch is coming out with are very different from what people are used to seeing in their Buckingham collection. The texture of natural wood products is really beautiful. The craftsmanship of their new finishes is really impressive. Matt explains the features of their new and improved motorized drapery tracks. Sarah discusses all the aspects of the business that have been redone. Their brochures have been redone for the designer to the client. What the resource library is all about. You will be able to see Kirsch's new products at the IWCE Expo in Charlotte in March 2020. Links: Website: Kirsch Instagram: Kirsch Twitter: Kirsch Facebook: Kirsch Fri, 01 Nov 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kirsch: Breathing New Life into a 112 Year Old Company full 479 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday! Today, we're introducing you to Kirsch, our newest sponsor for A Well-Designed Business. Kirsch has been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have... Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday! Today, we're introducing you to Kirsch, our newest sponsor for A Well-Designed Business. Kirsch has been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. For today's episode, we have Matt Johnson and Sarah Frost with us to talk to us about the latest innovations that Kirsch is bringing to the design and window treatment community, so tune in, to find out more! Kirsch was started in 1907 when Charles Kirsch invented the first curtain rod and telescoping rod. His goal was to connect with people around his fantastic products. Soon after inventing his innovative curtain rods, Charles published his first style book,  to guide purchasers of drapery hanging specialties.  The first Kirsch patented lace curtain rod was created in 1923, and then Charles designed the deluxe cut-to-measure drapery, which was one of the most important developments in drapery hardware history. For the next fifty years, the Kirsch brand continued to incorporate many more innovative advancements that would change our industry forever. Matt Johnson is the National Sales Manager of Kirsch Drapery Hardware. He leads a team of experienced sales professionals representing over 100 years of the Kirsch brand. Over his 22 years in the window coverings industry, Matt has sales experience in multiple channels of business including National Retailers, Independent Retailers, Builders, Contract and Commercial Accounts and Distributors.  His rich background and understanding of the window coverings industry have allowed him to apply his passion for working with business owners and designers to develop sales and marketing strategies to improve sales and service. Sarah Frost is the Brand Manager for Kirsch Drapery Hardware. She oversees a talented team that creates conceptual designs and implementation of the marketing initiatives for the drapery hardware launches and projects. Sarah has experience in hard window coverings as well as drapery hardware from her previous positions as a product manager and in sales. Listen in today to find out what Matt and Sarah have to share about our newest sponsor, the Kirsch brand. Show Highlights: Matt gives us a synopsis of Kirsch, and it's long and rich history in the window coverings industry Sarah has lots of fresh, new ideas for the Kirsch brand. Breathing new life into the brand through engaging with the trade. There are currently so many new and improved drapery hardware options available. Kirsch provides great resources to educate the design community about their complicated product. Sarah discusses how she and her team are revising and revamping the way their products are produced and presented. It all starts with the numbers. Keeping abreast of the latest trends. Creating a digital price list has made all the difference. The new styles and colors that Kirsch is coming out with are very different from what people are used to seeing in their Buckingham collection. The texture of natural wood products is really beautiful. The craftsmanship of their new finishes is really impressive. Matt explains the features of their new and improved motorized drapery tracks. Sarah discusses all the aspects of the business that have been redone. Their brochures have been redone for the designer to the client. What the resource library is all about. You will be able to see Kirsch's new products at the IWCE Expo in Charlotte in March 2020. Links: Website: Kirsch Instagram: Kirsch Twitter: Kirsch Facebook: Kirsch Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday! Today, we're introducing you to Kirsch, our newest sponsor for A Well-Designed Business. Kirsch has been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. For today's episode, we have Matt Johnson and Sarah Frost with us to talk to us about the latest innovations that Kirsch is bringing to the design and window treatment community, so tune in, to find out more!

Kirsch was started in 1907 when Charles Kirsch invented the first curtain rod and telescoping rod. His goal was to connect with people around his fantastic products. Soon after inventing his innovative curtain rods, Charles published his first style book,  to guide purchasers of drapery hanging specialties.  The first Kirsch patented lace curtain rod was created in 1923, and then Charles designed the deluxe cut-to-measure drapery, which was one of the most important developments in drapery hardware history. For the next fifty years, the Kirsch brand continued to incorporate many more innovative advancements that would change our industry forever.

Matt Johnson is the National Sales Manager of Kirsch Drapery Hardware. He leads a team of experienced sales professionals representing over 100 years of the Kirsch brand. Over his 22 years in the window coverings industry, Matt has sales experience in multiple channels of business including National Retailers, Independent Retailers, Builders, Contract and Commercial Accounts and Distributors.  His rich background and understanding of the window coverings industry have allowed him to apply his passion for working with business owners and designers to develop sales and marketing strategies to improve sales and service.

Sarah Frost is the Brand Manager for Kirsch Drapery Hardware. She oversees a talented team that creates conceptual designs and implementation of the marketing initiatives for the drapery hardware launches and projects. Sarah has experience in hard window coverings as well as drapery hardware from her previous positions as a product manager and in sales. Listen in today to find out what Matt and Sarah have to share about our newest sponsor, the Kirsch brand.

Show Highlights:

  • Matt gives us a synopsis of Kirsch, and it's long and rich history in the window coverings industry
  • Sarah has lots of fresh, new ideas for the Kirsch brand.
  • Breathing new life into the brand through engaging with the trade.
  • There are currently so many new and improved drapery hardware options available.
  • Kirsch provides great resources to educate the design community about their complicated product.
  • Sarah discusses how she and her team are revising and revamping the way their products are produced and presented.
  • It all starts with the numbers.
  • Keeping abreast of the latest trends.
  • Creating a digital price list has made all the difference.
  • The new styles and colors that Kirsch is coming out with are very different from what people are used to seeing in their Buckingham collection.
  • The texture of natural wood products is really beautiful.
  • The craftsmanship of their new finishes is really impressive.
  • Matt explains the features of their new and improved motorized drapery tracks.
  • Sarah discusses all the aspects of the business that have been redone.
  • Their brochures have been redone for the designer to the client.
  • What the resource library is all about.
  • You will be able to see Kirsch's new products at the IWCE Expo in Charlotte in March 2020.

Links:

Website: Kirsch

Instagram: Kirsch

Twitter: Kirsch

Facebook: Kirsch

]]> 3745 no 478: Amber Dawn Roy: The Courage to Launch Boldly http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/478-amber-dawn-roy-the-courage-to-launch-boldly Welcome to the show! Today, Amber Roy, the principal of the recently launched design firm, Amber Dawn Interiors joins us. Amber's approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, and between trends and timelessness. Her goal is to get to know her clients and understand what makes their hearts sing so that she can turn their homes into a reflection of who they truly are. In today's episode, Amber shares an 'aha' moment she experienced while listening to LuAnn being interviewed on Amber de la Garza's podcast, The Productivity Specialist. She talks to us about her first design project and the ingenious way she launched herself as an interior designer at the end of it. She also shares the intentional things she did just before, and in the weeks immediately after opening her business, to make herself known to potential clients, build relationships both within and outside of the design industry, and get her new business off the ground. Listen in today, to find out about Amber and how she got her successful new business up and running. Amber, who is also a realtor, has been passionate about interior design since she was a very young girl. As she grew, her interest in interior design also continued to grow and she eventually realized that she needed to put her passion to work. And so Amber Dawn Interiors was born. Amber has always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture. She feels that bringing in old pieces gives a place soul, and that warmth and balance are created by mixing old with new, so she loves to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. It is very important to Amber to create carefully and thoughtfully curated spaces, and she will go the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give her clients the unique look that they really want. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amber explains what it was that moved her to email LuAnn. Amber talks about her first project, to showcase her abilities as a designer. Reaching out to potential collaborators, including Ethan Allen and Coastal Furniture. Staging an open house in collaboration with a realtor. The great benefits of collaboration. Realtor's are good to partner with because they are an influential group of people. Networking is Amber's current strategy for building relationships. What it takes to create a successful relationship-building event. Discovering her mission and values. An awesome opportunity that has come Amber's way. You need to put yourself out there to become known. Bio: My passion for interior design began when I was a very young girl. I remember drawing floorplans for my "dream house" on the lined pages of my spiral-bound notebook. I remember staring out the window of the school bus, scoping out the houses that were down and out, imagining how beautiful they'd be if I could just fix them up. My interest grew as I did, and through the years I began to realize that I needed to put my passion to work. So, it is with immense pleasure and gratitude that I present Amber Dawn Interiors. My approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, between trends and timelessness. It is so important to me to create a space that is carefully and thoughtfully curated- going the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give you the look you want, but that won't be the same as your neighbor. My goal is to really get to know my clients: their lifestyle, their likes, and dislikes, the way they use their space, the things that make them happy, what makes their souls sing! I want your home to be a reflection of you. I want you to turn every corner and see something that makes you smile. I love to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. Having always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture, I feel that bringing in old pieces gives a space soul, and mixing old with new creates balance and warmth. When I'm not designing spaces, you will find me with my two boys, Turner and Pierson, their Dad, my husband Tim, and my other family and friends. I may be singing some karaoke. I may be gardening. I may be traveling. I may be enjoying the sunshine or a glass of wine. Probably both. I may very well be admiring an old truck or a historic building. If you see me, say hello :) Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amber De La Garza #385 and #436 Stephen Karlisch #369 Dala Al-Fuwaires #392 Nancy Ganzekaupher #15, #159, #256, #377, and #389 Carolyn Flannery #453 Jana Platina Phipps (The Trim Queen) #293 Darla Powell (Wingnut Social Media) #203  Rebecca Richardson #330 Links: Website: Amber Dawn Interior Instagram: @amber.dawn.interiors Facebook: Amber Dawn Interiors Tue, 29 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Amber Dawn Roy: The Courage to Launch Boldly full 478 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today, Amber Roy, the principal of the recently launched design firm, Amber Dawn Interiors joins us. Amber's approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, and between trends and timelessness. Her goal is to get to... Welcome to the show! Today, Amber Roy, the principal of the recently launched design firm, Amber Dawn Interiors joins us. Amber's approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, and between trends and timelessness. Her goal is to get to know her clients and understand what makes their hearts sing so that she can turn their homes into a reflection of who they truly are. In today's episode, Amber shares an 'aha' moment she experienced while listening to LuAnn being interviewed on Amber de la Garza's podcast, The Productivity Specialist. She talks to us about her first design project and the ingenious way she launched herself as an interior designer at the end of it. She also shares the intentional things she did just before, and in the weeks immediately after opening her business, to make herself known to potential clients, build relationships both within and outside of the design industry, and get her new business off the ground. Listen in today, to find out about Amber and how she got her successful new business up and running. Amber, who is also a realtor, has been passionate about interior design since she was a very young girl. As she grew, her interest in interior design also continued to grow and she eventually realized that she needed to put her passion to work. And so Amber Dawn Interiors was born. Amber has always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture. She feels that bringing in old pieces gives a place soul, and that warmth and balance are created by mixing old with new, so she loves to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. It is very important to Amber to create carefully and thoughtfully curated spaces, and she will go the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give her clients the unique look that they really want. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amber explains what it was that moved her to email LuAnn. Amber talks about her first project, to showcase her abilities as a designer. Reaching out to potential collaborators, including Ethan Allen and Coastal Furniture. Staging an open house in collaboration with a realtor. The great benefits of collaboration. Realtor's are good to partner with because they are an influential group of people. Networking is Amber's current strategy for building relationships. What it takes to create a successful relationship-building event. Discovering her mission and values. An awesome opportunity that has come Amber's way. You need to put yourself out there to become known. Bio: My passion for interior design began when I was a very young girl. I remember drawing floorplans for my "dream house" on the lined pages of my spiral-bound notebook. I remember staring out the window of the school bus, scoping out the houses that were down and out, imagining how beautiful they'd be if I could just fix them up. My interest grew as I did, and through the years I began to realize that I needed to put my passion to work. So, it is with immense pleasure and gratitude that I present Amber Dawn Interiors. My approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, between trends and timelessness. It is so important to me to create a space that is carefully and thoughtfully curated- going the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give you the look you want, but that won't be the same as your neighbor. My goal is to really get to know my clients: their lifestyle, their likes, and dislikes, the way they use their space, the things that make them happy, what makes their souls sing! I want your home to be a reflection of you. I want you to turn every corner and see something that makes you smile. I love to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. Having always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture, I feel that bringing in old pieces gives a space soul, and mixing old with new creates balance and warmth. When I'm not designing spaces, you will find me with my two boys, Turner and Pierson, their Dad, my husband Tim, and my other family and friends. I may be singing some karaoke. I may be gardening. I may be traveling. I may be enjoying the sunshine or a glass of wine. Probably both. I may very well be admiring an old truck or a historic building. If you see me, say hello :) Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amber De La Garza #385 and #436 Stephen Karlisch #369 Dala Al-Fuwaires #392 Nancy Ganzekaupher #15, #159, #256, #377, and #389 Carolyn Flannery #453 Jana Platina Phipps (The Trim Queen) #293 Darla Powell (Wingnut Social Media) #203  Rebecca Richardson #330 Links: Website: Amber Dawn Interior Instagram: @amber.dawn.interiors Facebook: Amber Dawn Interiors Welcome to the show! Today, Amber Roy, the principal of the recently launched design firm, Amber Dawn Interiors joins us. Amber's approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, and between trends and timelessness. Her goal is to get to know her clients and understand what makes their hearts sing so that she can turn their homes into a reflection of who they truly are. In today's episode, Amber shares an 'aha' moment she experienced while listening to LuAnn being interviewed on Amber de la Garza's podcast, The Productivity Specialist. She talks to us about her first design project and the ingenious way she launched herself as an interior designer at the end of it. She also shares the intentional things she did just before, and in the weeks immediately after opening her business, to make herself known to potential clients, build relationships both within and outside of the design industry, and get her new business off the ground. Listen in today, to find out about Amber and how she got her successful new business up and running.

Amber, who is also a realtor, has been passionate about interior design since she was a very young girl. As she grew, her interest in interior design also continued to grow and she eventually realized that she needed to put her passion to work. And so Amber Dawn Interiors was born. Amber has always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture. She feels that bringing in old pieces gives a place soul, and that warmth and balance are created by mixing old with new, so she loves to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. It is very important to Amber to create carefully and thoughtfully curated spaces, and she will go the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give her clients the unique look that they really want. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Amber explains what it was that moved her to email LuAnn.
  • Amber talks about her first project, to showcase her abilities as a designer.
  • Reaching out to potential collaborators, including Ethan Allen and Coastal Furniture.
  • Staging an open house in collaboration with a realtor.
  • The great benefits of collaboration.
  • Realtor's are good to partner with because they are an influential group of people.
  • Networking is Amber's current strategy for building relationships.
  • What it takes to create a successful relationship-building event.
  • Discovering her mission and values.
  • An awesome opportunity that has come Amber's way.
  • You need to put yourself out there to become known.

Bio:

My passion for interior design began when I was a very young girl. I remember drawing floorplans for my "dream house" on the lined pages of my spiral-bound notebook. I remember staring out the window of the school bus, scoping out the houses that were down and out, imagining how beautiful they'd be if I could just fix them up. My interest grew as I did, and through the years I began to realize that I needed to put my passion to work. So, it is with immense pleasure and gratitude that I present Amber Dawn Interiors.

My approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, between trends and timelessness. It is so important to me to create a space that is carefully and thoughtfully curated- going the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give you the look you want, but that won't be the same as your neighbor.

My goal is to really get to know my clients: their lifestyle, their likes, and dislikes, the way they use their space, the things that make them happy, what makes their souls sing! I want your home to be a reflection of you. I want you to turn every corner and see something that makes you smile.

I love to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. Having always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture, I feel that bringing in old pieces gives a space soul, and mixing old with new creates balance and warmth.

When I'm not designing spaces, you will find me with my two boys, Turner and Pierson, their Dad, my husband Tim, and my other family and friends. I may be singing some karaoke. I may be gardening. I may be traveling. I may be enjoying the sunshine or a glass of wine. Probably both. I may very well be admiring an old truck or a historic building. If you see me, say hello :)

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Amber De La Garza #385 and #436

Stephen Karlisch #369

Dala Al-Fuwaires #392

Nancy Ganzekaupher #15, #159, #256, #377, and #389

Carolyn Flannery #453

Jana Platina Phipps (The Trim Queen) #293

Darla Powell (Wingnut Social Media) #203 

Rebecca Richardson #330

Links:

Website: Amber Dawn Interior

Instagram: @amber.dawn.interiors

Facebook: Amber Dawn Interiors

]]> 3384 no 477: Power Talk Friday: Laurel Palmer: Comfortex Leader, Bringing Her Passion to Her Work http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/477-power-talk-friday-laurel-palmer-comfortex-leader-bringing-her-passion-to-her-work Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Laurel Palmer with us today. Laurel is the New England Sales Territory Manager for Comfortex, one of the premier sponsors for the LuAnn Live event last March. Laurel is a pro when it comes to the art of selling. She has many years of experience, having worked for furniture manufacturers, commercial office furniture dealerships, building materials suppliers, and ultimately, a window treatment company, where she first sold window treatments to retail consumers before landing on the wholesale side of the trade. Laurel grew up in Northern California and now resides happily in the Greater Boston area. She is committed to helping her window treatment dealers make more money, so tune in today, to hear what she has to say. Comfortex was founded in 1986 and soon became known as a provider of innovative cellular shades. The company grew, and their product offering expanded to include roller shades, sheer shades, wood, and faux wood blinds, as well as cellular shades in every shape and configuration. Then, in 2000, Comfortex was acquired by Hunter Douglas. Comfortex is known for constantly innovating and improving. An example of their innovation is Color Lux, which marries an unlimited color choice with green production processes and game-changing materials. Comfortex blinds and shades have won more than 100 Window Covering Manufacturing Association awards and they are distributed currently in more than 50 countries. Most of their products are manufactured in upstate New York. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: Laurel talks about the incredible amount of color choices that are available with Comfortex's Color Lux. How Color Lux came about. You can now get solar screens in any of Color Lux's 800 colors! As a designer, using Color Lux will give you the freedom to confidently offer your clients the exact color of their choice or to match any color that they already have. Beautiful relationships are formed between interior designers and many of the window treatment dealers that Laurel works with. The benefits of working with a window treatment pro. Window treatments are a viable way for designers to add a terrific layer of profitability to their revenue stream. The importance of creating partnerships. Laurel has a unique approach to being a representative of Comfortex. Laurel shares her sales philosophy and her sales process. If you ask the right questions and listen carefully people will tell you exactly what they need. People don't always buy what you think they're going to buy, so you owe it to your customers to show them all of the available options. LuAnn shares some pointers from the seven-step sales-course that she teaches. Confidence is a key component to your success. Why it's important to sell value, not price. LuAnn explains what makes a good salesperson. An expert is someone who has made every mistake in their field. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: WTF episode numbers #462 and #471 Links: Comfortex Window Fashions IWCE Vision To get in touch with Comfortex, send an email to customercare@comfortex.com and put LuAnn Nigara in the subject line. Link to RSVP for November 5th at Exclusive Flooring Concepts  Or Luann Nigara: Live Event Fri, 25 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Laurel Palmer: Comfortex Leader, Bringing Her Passion to Her Work full 477 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Laurel Palmer with us today. Laurel is the New England Sales Territory Manager for Comfortex, one of the premier sponsors for the LuAnn Live event last March. Laurel is a pro when it comes to the art of selling.... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Laurel Palmer with us today. Laurel is the New England Sales Territory Manager for Comfortex, one of the premier sponsors for the LuAnn Live event last March. Laurel is a pro when it comes to the art of selling. She has many years of experience, having worked for furniture manufacturers, commercial office furniture dealerships, building materials suppliers, and ultimately, a window treatment company, where she first sold window treatments to retail consumers before landing on the wholesale side of the trade. Laurel grew up in Northern California and now resides happily in the Greater Boston area. She is committed to helping her window treatment dealers make more money, so tune in today, to hear what she has to say. Comfortex was founded in 1986 and soon became known as a provider of innovative cellular shades. The company grew, and their product offering expanded to include roller shades, sheer shades, wood, and faux wood blinds, as well as cellular shades in every shape and configuration. Then, in 2000, Comfortex was acquired by Hunter Douglas. Comfortex is known for constantly innovating and improving. An example of their innovation is Color Lux, which marries an unlimited color choice with green production processes and game-changing materials. Comfortex blinds and shades have won more than 100 Window Covering Manufacturing Association awards and they are distributed currently in more than 50 countries. Most of their products are manufactured in upstate New York. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: Laurel talks about the incredible amount of color choices that are available with Comfortex's Color Lux. How Color Lux came about. You can now get solar screens in any of Color Lux's 800 colors! As a designer, using Color Lux will give you the freedom to confidently offer your clients the exact color of their choice or to match any color that they already have. Beautiful relationships are formed between interior designers and many of the window treatment dealers that Laurel works with. The benefits of working with a window treatment pro. Window treatments are a viable way for designers to add a terrific layer of profitability to their revenue stream. The importance of creating partnerships. Laurel has a unique approach to being a representative of Comfortex. Laurel shares her sales philosophy and her sales process. If you ask the right questions and listen carefully people will tell you exactly what they need. People don't always buy what you think they're going to buy, so you owe it to your customers to show them all of the available options. LuAnn shares some pointers from the seven-step sales-course that she teaches. Confidence is a key component to your success. Why it's important to sell value, not price. LuAnn explains what makes a good salesperson. An expert is someone who has made every mistake in their field. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: WTF episode numbers #462 and #471 Links: Comfortex Window Fashions IWCE Vision To get in touch with Comfortex, send an email to customercare@comfortex.com and put LuAnn Nigara in the subject line. Link to RSVP for November 5th at Exclusive Flooring Concepts  Or Luann Nigara: Live Event Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Laurel Palmer with us today. Laurel is the New England Sales Territory Manager for Comfortex, one of the premier sponsors for the LuAnn Live event last March. Laurel is a pro when it comes to the art of selling. She has many years of experience, having worked for furniture manufacturers, commercial office furniture dealerships, building materials suppliers, and ultimately, a window treatment company, where she first sold window treatments to retail consumers before landing on the wholesale side of the trade. Laurel grew up in Northern California and now resides happily in the Greater Boston area. She is committed to helping her window treatment dealers make more money, so tune in today, to hear what she has to say.

Comfortex was founded in 1986 and soon became known as a provider of innovative cellular shades. The company grew, and their product offering expanded to include roller shades, sheer shades, wood, and faux wood blinds, as well as cellular shades in every shape and configuration. Then, in 2000, Comfortex was acquired by Hunter Douglas.

Comfortex is known for constantly innovating and improving. An example of their innovation is Color Lux, which marries an unlimited color choice with green production processes and game-changing materials. Comfortex blinds and shades have won more than 100 Window Covering Manufacturing Association awards and they are distributed currently in more than 50 countries. Most of their products are manufactured in upstate New York. Listen in today, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Laurel talks about the incredible amount of color choices that are available with Comfortex's Color Lux.
  • How Color Lux came about.
  • You can now get solar screens in any of Color Lux's 800 colors!
  • As a designer, using Color Lux will give you the freedom to confidently offer your clients the exact color of their choice or to match any color that they already have.
  • Beautiful relationships are formed between interior designers and many of the window treatment dealers that Laurel works with.
  • The benefits of working with a window treatment pro.
  • Window treatments are a viable way for designers to add a terrific layer of profitability to their revenue stream.
  • The importance of creating partnerships.
  • Laurel has a unique approach to being a representative of Comfortex.
  • Laurel shares her sales philosophy and her sales process.
  • If you ask the right questions and listen carefully people will tell you exactly what they need.
  • People don't always buy what you think they're going to buy, so you owe it to your customers to show them all of the available options.
  • LuAnn shares some pointers from the seven-step sales-course that she teaches.
  • Confidence is a key component to your success.
  • Why it's important to sell value, not price.
  • LuAnn explains what makes a good salesperson.
  • An expert is someone who has made every mistake in their field.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

WTF episode numbers #462 and #471

Links:

Comfortex Window Fashions

IWCE Vision

To get in touch with Comfortex, send an email to customercare@comfortex.com and put LuAnn Nigara in the subject line.

Link to RSVP for November 5th at Exclusive Flooring Concepts 

Or

Luann Nigara: Live Event

]]> 3457 no 476: Amanda Hamilton: Running a Mid-Size Firm & Creating Additional Revenue Streams http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/476-amanda-hamilton-running-a-mid-size-firm-creating-additional-revenue-streams Welcome to the show! Today, we're featuring #risingdesigner Amanda Hamilton. Amanda's bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after designers in Western Canada. She is driven, focused, and has truly achieved a lot during her fifteen years of experience in the design industry. LuAnn is certain that the secret sauce to Amanda's success is that she is a first businesswoman and then an interior designer. In today's episode, Amanda talks to us about what goes into running a medium-sized business and creating extra revenue streams. Be sure to listen in to find out what she has to share. Amanda has her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Interior Design from Mount Royal University, she's earned her status as a Licensed Interior Designer through the National Council for Design Qualifications, and she is a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Amanda is dedicated to the career development of young women, so she mentors through the Harry G. Schaefer Mentorship Program. She has also mentored for the Women in Leadership and the National Council of Interior Design Education, and she is the current chair for the World of Choices committee for Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta, which focuses on career mentoring for young women. Amanda was the recipient of the 2012 Mount Royal University Horizon Award, which recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni early in their careers. In 2016, Amanda launched a Travel Scholarship through her alma mater to promote design exploration. She was named as one of the 20 Most Compelling Calgarians by the Calgary Herald for 2018, n 2017, she was awarded the Top 40 under 40 by the Calgary Edition of Avenue Magazine and she received the Silver Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of Canada. And to top it all, her design studio was awarded Best in Calgary in the Interior Design category and received the Ones to Watch award by Western Living Magazine. Tune in, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amanda talks to us about the time when she decided to build her firm up and take on employees. Amanda started her business in the middle of the recession. She has doubled her numbers since that year. Some of the lessons Amanda has learned about hiring. Developing awareness around the energetic effect you're having on others. Stress doesn't go away. You learn to deal with it. The challenge of creating an ideal team. Finding the right person for the right position. What Palette Archives is all about. The logistics behind Palette Archives. The goal of Palette Archives is to be like Amazon Prime. Tapping into a growing market. Pricing Palette Archives to make it accessible to even more people. Amanda explains how much went into the development of Palette Archives. Links: Amanda’s website Instagram Facebook Twitter Email Palette Archives Article Trade Program Tue, 22 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Amanda Hamilton: Running a Mid-Size Firm & Creating Additional Revenue Streams full 476 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today, we're featuring #risingdesigner Amanda Hamilton. Amanda's bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after designers in Western Canada. She is driven, focused, and has truly... Welcome to the show! Today, we're featuring #risingdesigner Amanda Hamilton. Amanda's bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after designers in Western Canada. She is driven, focused, and has truly achieved a lot during her fifteen years of experience in the design industry. LuAnn is certain that the secret sauce to Amanda's success is that she is a first businesswoman and then an interior designer. In today's episode, Amanda talks to us about what goes into running a medium-sized business and creating extra revenue streams. Be sure to listen in to find out what she has to share. Amanda has her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Interior Design from Mount Royal University, she's earned her status as a Licensed Interior Designer through the National Council for Design Qualifications, and she is a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Amanda is dedicated to the career development of young women, so she mentors through the Harry G. Schaefer Mentorship Program. She has also mentored for the Women in Leadership and the National Council of Interior Design Education, and she is the current chair for the World of Choices committee for Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta, which focuses on career mentoring for young women. Amanda was the recipient of the 2012 Mount Royal University Horizon Award, which recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni early in their careers. In 2016, Amanda launched a Travel Scholarship through her alma mater to promote design exploration. She was named as one of the 20 Most Compelling Calgarians by the Calgary Herald for 2018, n 2017, she was awarded the Top 40 under 40 by the Calgary Edition of Avenue Magazine and she received the Silver Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of Canada. And to top it all, her design studio was awarded Best in Calgary in the Interior Design category and received the Ones to Watch award by Western Living Magazine. Tune in, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amanda talks to us about the time when she decided to build her firm up and take on employees. Amanda started her business in the middle of the recession. She has doubled her numbers since that year. Some of the lessons Amanda has learned about hiring. Developing awareness around the energetic effect you're having on others. Stress doesn't go away. You learn to deal with it. The challenge of creating an ideal team. Finding the right person for the right position. What Palette Archives is all about. The logistics behind Palette Archives. The goal of Palette Archives is to be like Amazon Prime. Tapping into a growing market. Pricing Palette Archives to make it accessible to even more people. Amanda explains how much went into the development of Palette Archives. Links: Amanda’s website Instagram Facebook Twitter Email Palette Archives Article Trade Program Welcome to the show! Today, we're featuring #risingdesigner Amanda Hamilton. Amanda's bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after designers in Western Canada. She is driven, focused, and has truly achieved a lot during her fifteen years of experience in the design industry. LuAnn is certain that the secret sauce to Amanda's success is that she is a first businesswoman and then an interior designer. In today's episode, Amanda talks to us about what goes into running a medium-sized business and creating extra revenue streams. Be sure to listen in to find out what she has to share.

Amanda has her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Interior Design from Mount Royal University, she's earned her status as a Licensed Interior Designer through the National Council for Design Qualifications, and she is a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Amanda is dedicated to the career development of young women, so she mentors through the Harry G. Schaefer Mentorship Program. She has also mentored for the Women in Leadership and the National Council of Interior Design Education, and she is the current chair for the World of Choices committee for Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta, which focuses on career mentoring for young women. Amanda was the recipient of the 2012 Mount Royal University Horizon Award, which recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni early in their careers. In 2016, Amanda launched a Travel Scholarship through her alma mater to promote design exploration. She was named as one of the 20 Most Compelling Calgarians by the Calgary Herald for 2018, n 2017, she was awarded the Top 40 under 40 by the Calgary Edition of Avenue Magazine and she received the Silver Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of Canada. And to top it all, her design studio was awarded Best in Calgary in the Interior Design category and received the Ones to Watch award by Western Living Magazine. Tune in, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Amanda talks to us about the time when she decided to build her firm up and take on employees.
  • Amanda started her business in the middle of the recession. She has doubled her numbers since that year.
  • Some of the lessons Amanda has learned about hiring.
  • Developing awareness around the energetic effect you're having on others.
  • Stress doesn't go away. You learn to deal with it.
  • The challenge of creating an ideal team.
  • Finding the right person for the right position.
  • What Palette Archives is all about.
  • The logistics behind Palette Archives.
  • The goal of Palette Archives is to be like Amazon Prime.
  • Tapping into a growing market.
  • Pricing Palette Archives to make it accessible to even more people.
  • Amanda explains how much went into the development of Palette Archives.

Links:

Amanda’s website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

Email

Palette Archives

Article Trade Program

]]> 4437 no 475: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/475-power-talk-friday-desi-creswell-how-to-create-more-time Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Desi Creswell today. Desi and LuAnn speak a lot of the same language! They both know that it takes more than just talent for you to be in a position to share your gift with the world because, as a designer, you need your business to be profitable. This could mean having to improve your systems, processes, or even your education to inspire you and enhance your natural aptitude. Also, the way we think often prevents us from sharing our superpowers because of our mindset problems and limiting beliefs get in the way. So we are very happy to be talking to Desi today because she is skilled and able to deal with many of these issues with the coaching she does. In today's episode, she talks about how to create more time in your day by learning to identify the emotions you are trying to avoid. She explains how to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed, clarifies how to take action, and she discusses emotions and how they hold us back. Desi also shares a fantastic exercise to help you create more time. Be sure to tune in to learn how to use this valuable tool. Desi is a certified life and business coach who specializes in interior designers. She teaches her clients to become more profitable, productive, and confident while reducing the stress and overwhelming feelings that often comes with running your own business. Before turning thirty, Desi has already built two successful companies. She offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise and effective mindset teachings. Desi is also an award-winning interior designer and her work has been featured both in print and online publications. She has been a guest presenter and panelist at events such as Midwest Home Design Week. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: You can start creating more time by using a coaching tool called 'The Model' to become aware of your thinking and your feelings. Desi explains why it is important to understand what neutral facts are. Indulgent emotions; although they can sometimes feel justified or even productive, tend to keep people stuck because they don't produce any results. You can create efficiency by simply changing the way you think. Setting a schedule that creates results and saves time. Desi describes how to create thoughts and feelings that will serve you. How a coach can help you to create new thoughts and beliefs. Desi discusses the way she works with her clients. Buffering is one of the ways that we tend to waste a lot of time. Desi explains what it is, how we use it to distract ourselves, and how we can overcome the urge to use it. Creating intentional models that serve you. Take a moment to think about the emotions that you usually try to avoid during the day. Learning to move out of the emotion and to see and accept the neutral facts. Desi shares an exercise to help you to marry your mindset with a strategy. (Start, Stop, Keep.) Start, stop, keep will give you some perspective for looking at what you want to start doing, in terms of planning for future projects. Desi has a free guide on her website that will be helpful for you to take this work a little further and implement it in your life. You can schedule a free mini-session with Desi. Go to her website to take advantage of this offer. Links: Instagram: Desi Creswell Website: Desi Creswell Link to download the free guide:  Time And Profit Previous show mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza: #385 -Buffering: The activities you do when avoid doing what you know you should be doing. (hand up) I learned that my constant checking of emails is my buffering technique. Fri, 18 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: How to Create More Time full 475 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Desi Creswell today. Desi and LuAnn speak a lot of the same language! They both know that it takes more than just talent for you to be in a position to share your gift with the world... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Desi Creswell today. Desi and LuAnn speak a lot of the same language! They both know that it takes more than just talent for you to be in a position to share your gift with the world because, as a designer, you need your business to be profitable. This could mean having to improve your systems, processes, or even your education to inspire you and enhance your natural aptitude. Also, the way we think often prevents us from sharing our superpowers because of our mindset problems and limiting beliefs get in the way. So we are very happy to be talking to Desi today because she is skilled and able to deal with many of these issues with the coaching she does. In today's episode, she talks about how to create more time in your day by learning to identify the emotions you are trying to avoid. She explains how to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed, clarifies how to take action, and she discusses emotions and how they hold us back. Desi also shares a fantastic exercise to help you create more time. Be sure to tune in to learn how to use this valuable tool. Desi is a certified life and business coach who specializes in interior designers. She teaches her clients to become more profitable, productive, and confident while reducing the stress and overwhelming feelings that often comes with running your own business. Before turning thirty, Desi has already built two successful companies. She offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise and effective mindset teachings. Desi is also an award-winning interior designer and her work has been featured both in print and online publications. She has been a guest presenter and panelist at events such as Midwest Home Design Week. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: You can start creating more time by using a coaching tool called 'The Model' to become aware of your thinking and your feelings. Desi explains why it is important to understand what neutral facts are. Indulgent emotions; although they can sometimes feel justified or even productive, tend to keep people stuck because they don't produce any results. You can create efficiency by simply changing the way you think. Setting a schedule that creates results and saves time. Desi describes how to create thoughts and feelings that will serve you. How a coach can help you to create new thoughts and beliefs. Desi discusses the way she works with her clients. Buffering is one of the ways that we tend to waste a lot of time. Desi explains what it is, how we use it to distract ourselves, and how we can overcome the urge to use it. Creating intentional models that serve you. Take a moment to think about the emotions that you usually try to avoid during the day. Learning to move out of the emotion and to see and accept the neutral facts. Desi shares an exercise to help you to marry your mindset with a strategy. (Start, Stop, Keep.) Start, stop, keep will give you some perspective for looking at what you want to start doing, in terms of planning for future projects. Desi has a free guide on her website that will be helpful for you to take this work a little further and implement it in your life. You can schedule a free mini-session with Desi. Go to her website to take advantage of this offer. Links: Instagram: Desi Creswell Website: Desi Creswell Link to download the free guide:  Time And Profit Previous show mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza: #385 -Buffering: The activities you do when avoid doing what you know you should be doing. (hand up) I learned that my constant checking of emails is my buffering technique. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Desi Creswell today. Desi and LuAnn speak a lot of the same language! They both know that it takes more than just talent for you to be in a position to share your gift with the world because, as a designer, you need your business to be profitable. This could mean having to improve your systems, processes, or even your education to inspire you and enhance your natural aptitude. Also, the way we think often prevents us from sharing our superpowers because of our mindset problems and limiting beliefs get in the way. So we are very happy to be talking to Desi today because she is skilled and able to deal with many of these issues with the coaching she does. In today's episode, she talks about how to create more time in your day by learning to identify the emotions you are trying to avoid. She explains how to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed, clarifies how to take action, and she discusses emotions and how they hold us back. Desi also shares a fantastic exercise to help you create more time. Be sure to tune in to learn how to use this valuable tool.

Desi is a certified life and business coach who specializes in interior designers. She teaches her clients to become more profitable, productive, and confident while reducing the stress and overwhelming feelings that often comes with running your own business. Before turning thirty, Desi has already built two successful companies. She offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise and effective mindset teachings. Desi is also an award-winning interior designer and her work has been featured both in print and online publications. She has been a guest presenter and panelist at events such as Midwest Home Design Week. Listen in today, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • You can start creating more time by using a coaching tool called 'The Model' to become aware of your thinking and your feelings.
  • Desi explains why it is important to understand what neutral facts are.
  • Indulgent emotions; although they can sometimes feel justified or even productive, tend to keep people stuck because they don't produce any results.
  • You can create efficiency by simply changing the way you think.
  • Setting a schedule that creates results and saves time.
  • Desi describes how to create thoughts and feelings that will serve you.
  • How a coach can help you to create new thoughts and beliefs.
  • Desi discusses the way she works with her clients.
  • Buffering is one of the ways that we tend to waste a lot of time. Desi explains what it is, how we use it to distract ourselves, and how we can overcome the urge to use it.
  • Creating intentional models that serve you.
  • Take a moment to think about the emotions that you usually try to avoid during the day.
  • Learning to move out of the emotion and to see and accept the neutral facts.
  • Desi shares an exercise to help you to marry your mindset with a strategy. (Start, Stop, Keep.)
  • Start, stop, keep will give you some perspective for looking at what you want to start doing, in terms of planning for future projects.
  • Desi has a free guide on her website that will be helpful for you to take this work a little further and implement it in your life.
  • You can schedule a free mini-session with Desi. Go to her website to take advantage of this offer.

Links:

Instagram: Desi Creswell

Website: Desi Creswell

Link to download the free guide:  Time And Profit

Previous show mentioned in this episode:

Amber De La Garza: #385

-Buffering:

The activities you do when avoid doing what you know you should be doing. (hand up) I learned that my constant checking of emails is my buffering technique.

]]> 4022 no 474: Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/474-bria-hammel-keys-to-scaling-your-interior-design-firm Welcome! Today we have Bria Hammel, the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou, and the Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co., with us on the show. Bria leads a team of sixteen highly-skilled women who run thirty to forty significant projects each year. The company has two design teams working on the details and execution of all their projects. In today's episode, Bria explains the particulars of the way she runs her firm, she talks to us about how she learned to operate a well-managed company, and she shares the keys to scaling your interior design firm. Listen in, to find out more about Bria and the way she runs her highly-organized and very successful business. Bria's work has been featured in national publications like Traditional Home, Magnolia Journal, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, My Domain, Style Me Pretty, and also in many other local shelter regional magazines. She was awarded the 'Fresh Faces of Design' award from HGTV in 2015 and 2018, and she's been nominated for an international design award. Bria was also selected as a 2018 Style Spotter by High Point Market Authority. Tune in now, find out what to do to make your design firm a whole lot better. Show Highlights: Bria has almost 100 000 followers on Instagram. Bria talks about the specific roles played within her team of sixteen talented women. Pricing things accurately is very important for interior designers. It's very important to keep your clients regularly updated about their projects. Bria explains why she loves listening to podcasts. Businesses go stale when they stop growing because they think they know how to do everything perfectly. You can gain a lot from working for somebody else before starting your own design firm. Bria cut her teeth at Ethan Allen and she even became their Design Manager because they believed in her. Bria explains the phases of her design process. How Bria's teams are run. The way that Bria's trust in her team engenders her clients' trust in her firm. Bria talks about the Friday reports that she gets from her team each week. Asana helps Bria and her team to coordinate their projects and Slack helps them to communicate in a very organized way. Organization is key to scaling your business. Bria has added a retail component to her business with Brooke & Lou and their exclusively designed, Life Friendly products. Bria explains what the EOS system is about and how it works. Bio: Bria Hammel PRINCIPAL DESIGNER & CEO Bria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou and Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories. Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Lonny Magazine, Style Me Pretty, as well as many other local shelter magazines. She received the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV, has been nominated for an International Design Award and was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority. Bria was intrigued by design at a young age and grew up visiting wallpaper stores and furniture showrooms, as her mother was an “in-the-closet” designer. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236, #270 Tools that Bria's team uses: Asana Slack Links: Bria Hammel Interiors Facebook: Bria Hammel Interiors Instagram: Bria Hammel Interiors If you are interested in using Bria's Life Friendly products, be sure to set up your trade account today. Go to Brooke And Lou Link for LuAnn's book LuAnn Nigara Books recommended for learning about the EOS System: Traction by Gino Wickman Get A Grip by Mike Paton and Gino Wickman Tue, 15 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm full 474 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Bria Hammel, the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou, and the Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co., with us on the show. Bria leads a team of sixteen highly-skilled women who run... Welcome! Today we have Bria Hammel, the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou, and the Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co., with us on the show. Bria leads a team of sixteen highly-skilled women who run thirty to forty significant projects each year. The company has two design teams working on the details and execution of all their projects. In today's episode, Bria explains the particulars of the way she runs her firm, she talks to us about how she learned to operate a well-managed company, and she shares the keys to scaling your interior design firm. Listen in, to find out more about Bria and the way she runs her highly-organized and very successful business. Bria's work has been featured in national publications like Traditional Home, Magnolia Journal, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, My Domain, Style Me Pretty, and also in many other local shelter regional magazines. She was awarded the 'Fresh Faces of Design' award from HGTV in 2015 and 2018, and she's been nominated for an international design award. Bria was also selected as a 2018 Style Spotter by High Point Market Authority. Tune in now, find out what to do to make your design firm a whole lot better. Show Highlights: Bria has almost 100 000 followers on Instagram. Bria talks about the specific roles played within her team of sixteen talented women. Pricing things accurately is very important for interior designers. It's very important to keep your clients regularly updated about their projects. Bria explains why she loves listening to podcasts. Businesses go stale when they stop growing because they think they know how to do everything perfectly. You can gain a lot from working for somebody else before starting your own design firm. Bria cut her teeth at Ethan Allen and she even became their Design Manager because they believed in her. Bria explains the phases of her design process. How Bria's teams are run. The way that Bria's trust in her team engenders her clients' trust in her firm. Bria talks about the Friday reports that she gets from her team each week. Asana helps Bria and her team to coordinate their projects and Slack helps them to communicate in a very organized way. Organization is key to scaling your business. Bria has added a retail component to her business with Brooke & Lou and their exclusively designed, Life Friendly products. Bria explains what the EOS system is about and how it works. Bio: Bria Hammel PRINCIPAL DESIGNER & CEO Bria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou and Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories. Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Lonny Magazine, Style Me Pretty, as well as many other local shelter magazines. She received the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV, has been nominated for an International Design Award and was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority. Bria was intrigued by design at a young age and grew up visiting wallpaper stores and furniture showrooms, as her mother was an “in-the-closet” designer. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236, #270 Tools that Bria's team uses: Asana Slack Links: Bria Hammel Interiors Facebook: Bria Hammel Interiors Instagram: Bria Hammel Interiors If you are interested in using Bria's Life Friendly products, be sure to set up your trade account today. Go to Brooke And Lou Link for LuAnn's book LuAnn Nigara Books recommended for learning about the EOS System: Traction by Gino Wickman Get A Grip by Mike Paton and Gino Wickman Welcome! Today we have Bria Hammel, the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou, and the Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co., with us on the show. Bria leads a team of sixteen highly-skilled women who run thirty to forty significant projects each year. The company has two design teams working on the details and execution of all their projects. In today's episode, Bria explains the particulars of the way she runs her firm, she talks to us about how she learned to operate a well-managed company, and she shares the keys to scaling your interior design firm. Listen in, to find out more about Bria and the way she runs her highly-organized and very successful business.

Bria's work has been featured in national publications like Traditional Home, Magnolia Journal, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, My Domain, Style Me Pretty, and also in many other local shelter regional magazines. She was awarded the 'Fresh Faces of Design' award from HGTV in 2015 and 2018, and she's been nominated for an international design award. Bria was also selected as a 2018 Style Spotter by High Point Market Authority. Tune in now, find out what to do to make your design firm a whole lot better.

Show Highlights:

  • Bria has almost 100 000 followers on Instagram.
  • Bria talks about the specific roles played within her team of sixteen talented women.
  • Pricing things accurately is very important for interior designers.
  • It's very important to keep your clients regularly updated about their projects.
  • Bria explains why she loves listening to podcasts.
  • Businesses go stale when they stop growing because they think they know how to do everything perfectly.
  • You can gain a lot from working for somebody else before starting your own design firm. Bria cut her teeth at Ethan Allen and she even became their Design Manager because they believed in her.
  • Bria explains the phases of her design process.
  • How Bria's teams are run.
  • The way that Bria's trust in her team engenders her clients' trust in her firm.
  • Bria talks about the Friday reports that she gets from her team each week.
  • Asana helps Bria and her team to coordinate their projects and Slack helps them to communicate in a very organized way.
  • Organization is key to scaling your business.
  • Bria has added a retail component to her business with Brooke & Lou and their exclusively designed, Life Friendly products.
  • Bria explains what the EOS system is about and how it works.

Bio:

Bria Hammel

PRINCIPAL DESIGNER & CEO

Bria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou and Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories.

Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Lonny Magazine, Style Me Pretty, as well as many other local shelter magazines. She received the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV, has been nominated for an International Design Award and was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority.

Bria was intrigued by design at a young age and grew up visiting wallpaper stores and furniture showrooms, as her mother was an “in-the-closet” designer. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Shea McGee #236, #270

Tools that Bria's team uses:

Asana

Slack

Links:

Bria Hammel Interiors

Facebook: Bria Hammel Interiors

Instagram: Bria Hammel Interiors

If you are interested in using Bria's Life Friendly products, be sure to set up your trade account today. Go to Brooke And Lou

Link for LuAnn's book LuAnn Nigara

Books recommended for learning about the EOS System:

Traction by Gino Wickman

Get A Grip by Mike Paton and Gino Wickman

]]> 5235 no 473: Power Talk Friday: The FabricShield, Scott & Rene Schleicher http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/473-power-talk-friday-the-fabricshield-scott-rene-schleicher Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by The FabricShield, a company that cleans, protects, and performs emergency spot-cleaning for the times when accidents happen. The FabricShield is owned and operated by Rene and Scott Schleicher. Rene and Scott are passionate about their business and they know how much money your clients are spending on investing in furniture, carpets, area rugs, window treatments, and wall coverings. They truly understand the advantage you have, as a designer, when you're able to offer your clients a service to help them protect their investment for many years to come. Listen in today, to find out what Rene and Scott have to share about their unique product and the way that it adds value to any design business. Rene and Scott are a remarkably well-matched couple, both in life and in business. Rene has a background in retail furniture sales and Scott's background is in growing national business networks. This places them in a unique position to excel at both sides of their business. Their first-hand understanding of the value and pride that designers place in their clients and their homes, coupled with the astute way they run their business, makes everything happen very smoothly. This means that you can rely on them completely, and refer or hire them without any reservation. Tune in today to learn all about The FabricShield and what it does for fabrics. Show Highlights: The FabricShield makes regular fabrics perform like performance fabrics. Dealing with accidents and offering protection for any soft surface. About their complimentary spot cleaning service. You can first test a sample of your fabric, just to put your mind at ease. The water test will immediately show how well this product performs. This product never changes the feel of a fabric. The FabricShield is completely non-toxic and it dries extremely quickly, leaving no smell at all. Applying the product is a straightforward process and the technicians are very conscientious about cleaning up before they leave. Anything natural almost always comes out. Protecting your fabrics for your peace of mind. They schedule their day to leave themselves windows of opportunity to react to your stains. How interior designers can work with The FabricShield. The way that designers are rewarded for their referrals. Talking about pricing. They provide complimentary spot cleaning for 18 months. The business is now a franchise. Scott explains what makes their franchise unique. The quality of the product is the key to their business. Why Rene and Scott are uniquely positioned to lead their company. Starting a start-up business within a Fortune 500 company. About The FabricShield: The FabricShield is an in-home application to be applied to upholstery, area rugs, carpets, to any other soft surface you'd like to protect. It dries within an hour and there is no aerosol mist or haze. The FabricShield won't alter the texture or the look, feel, or color of the furnishings and its protection will keep your furnishings looking like new for longer. The FabricShield company provides complimentary spot cleaning care for 18 months once a client's furnishings have been protected with The FabricShield. Bios: Scott Schleicher Co-Founder Scott Schleicher is a co-owner of The FabricShield. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD with a B.S. degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, he served for 5 years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. He has spent the majority of his professional career in the industrial gas industry working for Air Products, Inc. in Allentown, PA. While at Air Products, he had the opportunity to start-up their MicroBulk business serving as the National Business Manager. The MicroBulk business served over 30 locations in the United States and grew rapidly under Scott’s leadership with revenues of $200K in Year 1 and growing to revenues of over $20MM in Year 10 when Scott departed the company.   He then joined Airgas, Inc. and served as the President of Airgas National Carbonation (ANC). Under Scott’s leadership, ANC grew from $48MM in revenue and a 17% profit margin to $75MM in revenue and a 24% profit margin in 3 years. Scott departed Airgas in 2018 to join Rene Schleicher in establishing FabricSeal, LLC. the predecessor to The FabricShield. Rene Schleicher Co-Founder Rene Schleicher is a co-owner of FabricSeal, LLC. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, MD with a B.A. degree in Government and Politics. She received her Paralegal degree from the University of San Diego, CA. Rene has been an entrepreneur since graduating from college and has spent the last 20 years serving the legal and design trade industries. Rene has worked as a paralegal in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Rene formed her first start-up company as an interior decorator while living in Allentown PA. Her business grew and she eventually opened a boutique furniture store serving the design trade called Haven Home Furnishings, LLC. Haven Home Furnishings was eventually sold and continues to flourish in the Lehigh Valley under a new name, Beautiful Home by Quentin Eshleman. In 2012, Rene joined an upholstery protection company as a sales professional. She departed in 2017 to begin developing the business model for FabricSeal, LLC the predecessor to The FabricShield with her husband and now business partner Scott Schleicher. Links: Website: The Fabric Shield Facebook: The Fabric Shield Twitter: The Fabric Shield Instagram: The Fabric Shield Fri, 11 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: The FabricShield, Scott & Rene Schleicher full 473 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by The FabricShield, a company that cleans, protects, and performs emergency spot-cleaning for the times when accidents happen. The FabricShield is owned and operated by Rene and Scott... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by The FabricShield, a company that cleans, protects, and performs emergency spot-cleaning for the times when accidents happen. The FabricShield is owned and operated by Rene and Scott Schleicher. Rene and Scott are passionate about their business and they know how much money your clients are spending on investing in furniture, carpets, area rugs, window treatments, and wall coverings. They truly understand the advantage you have, as a designer, when you're able to offer your clients a service to help them protect their investment for many years to come. Listen in today, to find out what Rene and Scott have to share about their unique product and the way that it adds value to any design business. Rene and Scott are a remarkably well-matched couple, both in life and in business. Rene has a background in retail furniture sales and Scott's background is in growing national business networks. This places them in a unique position to excel at both sides of their business. Their first-hand understanding of the value and pride that designers place in their clients and their homes, coupled with the astute way they run their business, makes everything happen very smoothly. This means that you can rely on them completely, and refer or hire them without any reservation. Tune in today to learn all about The FabricShield and what it does for fabrics. Show Highlights: The FabricShield makes regular fabrics perform like performance fabrics. Dealing with accidents and offering protection for any soft surface. About their complimentary spot cleaning service. You can first test a sample of your fabric, just to put your mind at ease. The water test will immediately show how well this product performs. This product never changes the feel of a fabric. The FabricShield is completely non-toxic and it dries extremely quickly, leaving no smell at all. Applying the product is a straightforward process and the technicians are very conscientious about cleaning up before they leave. Anything natural almost always comes out. Protecting your fabrics for your peace of mind. They schedule their day to leave themselves windows of opportunity to react to your stains. How interior designers can work with The FabricShield. The way that designers are rewarded for their referrals. Talking about pricing. They provide complimentary spot cleaning for 18 months. The business is now a franchise. Scott explains what makes their franchise unique. The quality of the product is the key to their business. Why Rene and Scott are uniquely positioned to lead their company. Starting a start-up business within a Fortune 500 company. About The FabricShield: The FabricShield is an in-home application to be applied to upholstery, area rugs, carpets, to any other soft surface you'd like to protect. It dries within an hour and there is no aerosol mist or haze. The FabricShield won't alter the texture or the look, feel, or color of the furnishings and its protection will keep your furnishings looking like new for longer. The FabricShield company provides complimentary spot cleaning care for 18 months once a client's furnishings have been protected with The FabricShield. Bios: Scott Schleicher Co-Founder Scott Schleicher is a co-owner of The FabricShield. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD with a B.S. degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, he served for 5 years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. He has spent the majority of his professional career in the industrial gas industry working for Air Products, Inc. in Allentown, PA. While at Air Products, he had the opportunity to start-up their MicroBulk business serving as the National Business Manager. The MicroBulk business served over 30 locations in the United States and grew rapidly under Scott’s leadership with revenues of $200K in Year 1 and growing to revenues of over $20MM in Year 10 when Scott departed the company.   He then joined Airgas, Inc. and served as the President of Airgas National Carbonation (ANC). Under Scott’s leadership, ANC grew from $48MM in revenue and a 17% profit margin to $75MM in revenue and a 24% profit margin in 3 years. Scott departed Airgas in 2018 to join Rene Schleicher in establishing FabricSeal, LLC. the predecessor to The FabricShield. Rene Schleicher Co-Founder Rene Schleicher is a co-owner of FabricSeal, LLC. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, MD with a B.A. degree in Government and Politics. She received her Paralegal degree from the University of San Diego, CA. Rene has been an entrepreneur since graduating from college and has spent the last 20 years serving the legal and design trade industries. Rene has worked as a paralegal in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Rene formed her first start-up company as an interior decorator while living in Allentown PA. Her business grew and she eventually opened a boutique furniture store serving the design trade called Haven Home Furnishings, LLC. Haven Home Furnishings was eventually sold and continues to flourish in the Lehigh Valley under a new name, Beautiful Home by Quentin Eshleman. In 2012, Rene joined an upholstery protection company as a sales professional. She departed in 2017 to begin developing the business model for FabricSeal, LLC the predecessor to The FabricShield with her husband and now business partner Scott Schleicher. Links: Website: The Fabric Shield Facebook: The Fabric Shield Twitter: The Fabric Shield Instagram: The Fabric Shield Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by The FabricShield, a company that cleans, protects, and performs emergency spot-cleaning for the times when accidents happen. The FabricShield is owned and operated by Rene and Scott Schleicher. Rene and Scott are passionate about their business and they know how much money your clients are spending on investing in furniture, carpets, area rugs, window treatments, and wall coverings. They truly understand the advantage you have, as a designer, when you're able to offer your clients a service to help them protect their investment for many years to come. Listen in today, to find out what Rene and Scott have to share about their unique product and the way that it adds value to any design business.

Rene and Scott are a remarkably well-matched couple, both in life and in business. Rene has a background in retail furniture sales and Scott's background is in growing national business networks. This places them in a unique position to excel at both sides of their business. Their first-hand understanding of the value and pride that designers place in their clients and their homes, coupled with the astute way they run their business, makes everything happen very smoothly. This means that you can rely on them completely, and refer or hire them without any reservation. Tune in today to learn all about The FabricShield and what it does for fabrics.

Show Highlights:

  • The FabricShield makes regular fabrics perform like performance fabrics.
  • Dealing with accidents and offering protection for any soft surface.
  • About their complimentary spot cleaning service.
  • You can first test a sample of your fabric, just to put your mind at ease.
  • The water test will immediately show how well this product performs.
  • This product never changes the feel of a fabric.
  • The FabricShield is completely non-toxic and it dries extremely quickly, leaving no smell at all.
  • Applying the product is a straightforward process and the technicians are very conscientious about cleaning up before they leave.
  • Anything natural almost always comes out.
  • Protecting your fabrics for your peace of mind.
  • They schedule their day to leave themselves windows of opportunity to react to your stains.
  • How interior designers can work with The FabricShield.
  • The way that designers are rewarded for their referrals.
  • Talking about pricing.
  • They provide complimentary spot cleaning for 18 months.
  • The business is now a franchise. Scott explains what makes their franchise unique.
  • The quality of the product is the key to their business.
  • Why Rene and Scott are uniquely positioned to lead their company.
  • Starting a start-up business within a Fortune 500 company.

About The FabricShield:

The FabricShield is an in-home application to be applied to upholstery, area rugs, carpets, to any other soft surface you'd like to protect. It dries within an hour and there is no aerosol mist or haze. The FabricShield won't alter the texture or the look, feel, or color of the furnishings and its protection will keep your furnishings looking like new for longer.

The FabricShield company provides complimentary spot cleaning care for 18 months once a client's furnishings have been protected with The FabricShield.

Bios:

Scott Schleicher

Co-Founder

Scott Schleicher is a co-owner of The FabricShield. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD with a B.S. degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, he served for 5 years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. He has spent the majority of his professional career in the industrial gas industry working for Air Products, Inc. in Allentown, PA. While at Air Products, he had the opportunity to start-up their MicroBulk business serving as the National Business Manager. The MicroBulk business served over 30 locations in the United States and grew rapidly under Scott’s leadership with revenues of $200K in Year 1 and growing to revenues of over $20MM in Year 10 when Scott departed the company.   He then joined Airgas, Inc. and served as the President of Airgas National Carbonation (ANC). Under Scott’s leadership, ANC grew from $48MM in revenue and a 17% profit margin to $75MM in revenue and a 24% profit margin in 3 years. Scott departed Airgas in 2018 to join Rene Schleicher in establishing FabricSeal, LLC. the predecessor to The FabricShield.

Rene Schleicher

Co-Founder

Rene Schleicher is a co-owner of FabricSeal, LLC. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, MD with a B.A. degree in Government and Politics. She received her Paralegal degree from the University of San Diego, CA. Rene has been an entrepreneur since graduating from college and has spent the last 20 years serving the legal and design trade industries. Rene has worked as a paralegal in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Rene formed her first start-up company as an interior decorator while living in Allentown PA. Her business grew and she eventually opened a boutique furniture store serving the design trade called Haven Home Furnishings, LLC. Haven Home Furnishings was eventually sold and continues to flourish in the Lehigh Valley under a new name, Beautiful Home by Quentin Eshleman. In 2012, Rene joined an upholstery protection company as a sales professional. She departed in 2017 to begin developing the business model for FabricSeal, LLC the predecessor to The FabricShield with her husband and now business partner Scott Schleicher.

Links:

Website: The Fabric Shield

Facebook: The Fabric Shield

Twitter: The Fabric Shield

Instagram: The Fabric Shield

]]> 3499 no 472: John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/472-john-mcclain-running-his-firm-from-two-coasts-makes-systems-and-tools-critical Welcome to the show! We have John McClain joining us today. John is the owner and Principal Designer for John McClain Design, and he is also an ASID Associate. For John, a successful design project involves combining the client’s needs and wishes with his own natural instinct. John McClean Design has offices in Florida and Los Angeles, and in today's episode, John talks to us about his superpower, which is organizing the systems and tools that he and his team utilize to manage their projects from two locations in two different time zones. Tune in now, to learn how to set your firm up with a strong foundation. John McClain is an accomplished interior designer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others. Shortly after launching his career, John appeared on HGTV, which allowed his personality and design perspective to become visible to a larger audience. He then joined a prestigious interior design firm/furniture design company in Los Angeles, CA, which eventually led to him starting his own home furnishings company, John McClain Home. John McClain Design is a well-crafted blend of John's past design experience, education, and innovative-forward thinking. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John now also shares his passion for interior design through speaking engagements, television appearances, articles, and events. Listen in today, to find out what he has to share. Show Highlights: John has a degree in business management. He has always been an entrepreneur with a keen interest in learning systems and ways to make businesses run more efficiently. Systems are always evolving and changing, so you have to keep learning and growing. John talks about the structure of his business and the roles that his employees play. Synergy is really important to John, so he is always aware of what's going on with all of his firm's projects. John explains how he works and how he organizes his projects within his company. Transparency is very important, for both employees and clients. John has started using MyDoma Studio to coordinate his projects and it's made things so much easier! John explains what he likes about MyDoma Studio. Some of the tools that John and his team use to communicate and to coordinate their projects. The way that John manages his business finances. Learning the ins and outs of QuickBooks. Keeping a keen eye on your finances is key to running a successful business. John explains how he keeps his finger on the pulse of his business. Using a questionnaire to get information about potential new clients. John talks about his involvement in the consultation process. Coping with a three-hour time difference. Knowing when you have to step in as the leader. Keeping his team inclusive. Links: John McClain Home John McClain Design Instagram: @johnmcclainhome Facebook: John McClain Home Go to A Well Designed Business to sign up for your trial with MyDoma Studio. On November 1st, 2019, LuAnn will be speaking at the Portland Interior Design Society Chapter's event, the Elevate Conference. Then, the following week, on November 9th, 2019, she will be speaking at the thirtieth-anniversary celebration of the NKBA Portland Chapter. Both the IDS of Portland, Oregon, and the NKBA of Portland, Maine, are inviting you, the design professional, to join us! You don't have to be a member of IDS or NKBA to attend. Go to LuAnn's website, Luann Nigara, and click on the 'Attend A Live Event' tab to find the RSVP and registration info for these events. (And for any other event that LuAnn will be attending over the next few months.) Tue, 08 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 John McClain: Running His Firm from Two Coasts Makes Systems and Tools Critical full 472 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have John McClain joining us today. John is the owner and Principal Designer for John McClain Design, and he is also an ASID Associate. For John, a successful design project involves combining the client’s needs and wishes... Welcome to the show! We have John McClain joining us today. John is the owner and Principal Designer for John McClain Design, and he is also an ASID Associate. For John, a successful design project involves combining the client’s needs and wishes with his own natural instinct. John McClean Design has offices in Florida and Los Angeles, and in today's episode, John talks to us about his superpower, which is organizing the systems and tools that he and his team utilize to manage their projects from two locations in two different time zones. Tune in now, to learn how to set your firm up with a strong foundation. John McClain is an accomplished interior designer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others. Shortly after launching his career, John appeared on HGTV, which allowed his personality and design perspective to become visible to a larger audience. He then joined a prestigious interior design firm/furniture design company in Los Angeles, CA, which eventually led to him starting his own home furnishings company, John McClain Home. John McClain Design is a well-crafted blend of John's past design experience, education, and innovative-forward thinking. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John now also shares his passion for interior design through speaking engagements, television appearances, articles, and events. Listen in today, to find out what he has to share. Show Highlights: John has a degree in business management. He has always been an entrepreneur with a keen interest in learning systems and ways to make businesses run more efficiently. Systems are always evolving and changing, so you have to keep learning and growing. John talks about the structure of his business and the roles that his employees play. Synergy is really important to John, so he is always aware of what's going on with all of his firm's projects. John explains how he works and how he organizes his projects within his company. Transparency is very important, for both employees and clients. John has started using MyDoma Studio to coordinate his projects and it's made things so much easier! John explains what he likes about MyDoma Studio. Some of the tools that John and his team use to communicate and to coordinate their projects. The way that John manages his business finances. Learning the ins and outs of QuickBooks. Keeping a keen eye on your finances is key to running a successful business. John explains how he keeps his finger on the pulse of his business. Using a questionnaire to get information about potential new clients. John talks about his involvement in the consultation process. Coping with a three-hour time difference. Knowing when you have to step in as the leader. Keeping his team inclusive. Links: John McClain Home John McClain Design Instagram: @johnmcclainhome Facebook: John McClain Home Go to A Well Designed Business to sign up for your trial with MyDoma Studio. On November 1st, 2019, LuAnn will be speaking at the Portland Interior Design Society Chapter's event, the Elevate Conference. Then, the following week, on November 9th, 2019, she will be speaking at the thirtieth-anniversary celebration of the NKBA Portland Chapter. Both the IDS of Portland, Oregon, and the NKBA of Portland, Maine, are inviting you, the design professional, to join us! You don't have to be a member of IDS or NKBA to attend. Go to LuAnn's website, Luann Nigara, and click on the 'Attend A Live Event' tab to find the RSVP and registration info for these events. (And for any other event that LuAnn will be attending over the next few months.) Welcome to the show! We have John McClain joining us today. John is the owner and Principal Designer for John McClain Design, and he is also an ASID Associate. For John, a successful design project involves combining the client’s needs and wishes with his own natural instinct. John McClean Design has offices in Florida and Los Angeles, and in today's episode, John talks to us about his superpower, which is organizing the systems and tools that he and his team utilize to manage their projects from two locations in two different time zones. Tune in now, to learn how to set your firm up with a strong foundation.

John McClain is an accomplished interior designer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others. Shortly after launching his career, John appeared on HGTV, which allowed his personality and design perspective to become visible to a larger audience. He then joined a prestigious interior design firm/furniture design company in Los Angeles, CA, which eventually led to him starting his own home furnishings company, John McClain Home.

John McClain Design is a well-crafted blend of John's past design experience, education, and innovative-forward thinking. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John now also shares his passion for interior design through speaking engagements, television appearances, articles, and events. Listen in today, to find out what he has to share.

Show Highlights:

  • John has a degree in business management. He has always been an entrepreneur with a keen interest in learning systems and ways to make businesses run more efficiently.
  • Systems are always evolving and changing, so you have to keep learning and growing.
  • John talks about the structure of his business and the roles that his employees play.
  • Synergy is really important to John, so he is always aware of what's going on with all of his firm's projects.
  • John explains how he works and how he organizes his projects within his company.
  • Transparency is very important, for both employees and clients.
  • John has started using MyDoma Studio to coordinate his projects and it's made things so much easier!
  • John explains what he likes about MyDoma Studio.
  • Some of the tools that John and his team use to communicate and to coordinate their projects.
  • The way that John manages his business finances.
  • Learning the ins and outs of QuickBooks.
  • Keeping a keen eye on your finances is key to running a successful business.
  • John explains how he keeps his finger on the pulse of his business.
  • Using a questionnaire to get information about potential new clients.
  • John talks about his involvement in the consultation process.
  • Coping with a three-hour time difference.
  • Knowing when you have to step in as the leader.
  • Keeping his team inclusive.

Links:

John McClain Home

John McClain Design

Instagram: @johnmcclainhome

Facebook: John McClain Home

Go to A Well Designed Business to sign up for your trial with MyDoma Studio.

On November 1st, 2019, LuAnn will be speaking at the Portland Interior Design Society Chapter's event, the Elevate Conference. Then, the following week, on November 9th, 2019, she will be speaking at the thirtieth-anniversary celebration of the NKBA Portland Chapter. Both the IDS of Portland, Oregon, and the NKBA of Portland, Maine, are inviting you, the design professional, to join us! You don't have to be a member of IDS or NKBA to attend. Go to LuAnn's website, Luann Nigara, and click on the 'Attend A Live Event' tab to find the RSVP and registration info for these events. (And for any other event that LuAnn will be attending over the next few months.)

]]> 3259 no 471: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/471-window-treatment-friday-window-treatment-business-models-part-2 Welcome to another episode of our Window Treatment Friday series with LuAnn and Vita. In this series, we're talking about window treatment services and we're sharing some viable business models with you. We explain how you can incorporate a window treatment business into your interior design business and we help you find the business model that's the best fit for you. Today, we're continuing our conversation from the last episode in this series (# 462) where we outlined the framework for the 'Do It Yourself' model. In today's episode, we will be covering the 'Done For You' model, where the interior designer partners with a window treatment specialist. In this model, the interior designer is the primary creator of the vision and the plan, and takes care of the more fun aspects of the service, while all the 'behind the scenes' aspects are taken care of by the window treatment specialist.  Listen in, to find out more. Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita and LuAnn have been getting some outstanding feedback about this series, so tune in today, to learn from them how to make window treatments a profitable center of revenue for your interior design firm. Show Highlights: Vita gives a recap of what she and LuAnn covered in the previous episode of this series, #462. With the 'Done For You' model, the window treatment expert expects you to call them in right at the beginning of a new project. Devising the strategy for window treatments is the first step. The designer remains the leader and the window treatment expert helps the designer understand how to find the best solutions. The importance of honing your communication skills. The way that the window treatment experts can help you, the designer. Coming up with the design is usually the most fun step for designers. An expert is someone who has made every possible mistake in their field. The role of the designer and the role of the window treatment expert. Window treatment experts use systems to keep the designers in the loop. Dealing with delays. Creating efficiency with systems. Vitalia Inc. uses Air Table, a very robust web-based project-management system that outlines every step of the project. What it means to take responsibility. The value you get from partnering with a window treatment expert. This model is a win-win for the designer and the client. Vita shares the questions that you need to ask, to find the best window treatment model that's the best fit. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Peter Lang #349 and #464 Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To get the PDF with the Goodies from today's episode: Luann Nigara If you join LuAnn's mailing list, you can access any information that we have uploaded relating to all the previous episodes of the podcast via this link. Fri, 04 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 full 471 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of our Window Treatment Friday series with LuAnn and Vita. In this series, we're talking about window treatment services and we're sharing some viable business models with you. We explain how you can incorporate a window... Welcome to another episode of our Window Treatment Friday series with LuAnn and Vita. In this series, we're talking about window treatment services and we're sharing some viable business models with you. We explain how you can incorporate a window treatment business into your interior design business and we help you find the business model that's the best fit for you. Today, we're continuing our conversation from the last episode in this series (# 462) where we outlined the framework for the 'Do It Yourself' model. In today's episode, we will be covering the 'Done For You' model, where the interior designer partners with a window treatment specialist. In this model, the interior designer is the primary creator of the vision and the plan, and takes care of the more fun aspects of the service, while all the 'behind the scenes' aspects are taken care of by the window treatment specialist.  Listen in, to find out more. Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita and LuAnn have been getting some outstanding feedback about this series, so tune in today, to learn from them how to make window treatments a profitable center of revenue for your interior design firm. Show Highlights: Vita gives a recap of what she and LuAnn covered in the previous episode of this series, #462. With the 'Done For You' model, the window treatment expert expects you to call them in right at the beginning of a new project. Devising the strategy for window treatments is the first step. The designer remains the leader and the window treatment expert helps the designer understand how to find the best solutions. The importance of honing your communication skills. The way that the window treatment experts can help you, the designer. Coming up with the design is usually the most fun step for designers. An expert is someone who has made every possible mistake in their field. The role of the designer and the role of the window treatment expert. Window treatment experts use systems to keep the designers in the loop. Dealing with delays. Creating efficiency with systems. Vitalia Inc. uses Air Table, a very robust web-based project-management system that outlines every step of the project. What it means to take responsibility. The value you get from partnering with a window treatment expert. This model is a win-win for the designer and the client. Vita shares the questions that you need to ask, to find the best window treatment model that's the best fit. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Peter Lang #349 and #464 Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To get the PDF with the Goodies from today's episode: Luann Nigara If you join LuAnn's mailing list, you can access any information that we have uploaded relating to all the previous episodes of the podcast via this link. Welcome to another episode of our Window Treatment Friday series with LuAnn and Vita. In this series, we're talking about window treatment services and we're sharing some viable business models with you. We explain how you can incorporate a window treatment business into your interior design business and we help you find the business model that's the best fit for you. Today, we're continuing our conversation from the last episode in this series (# 462) where we outlined the framework for the 'Do It Yourself' model. In today's episode, we will be covering the 'Done For You' model, where the interior designer partners with a window treatment specialist. In this model, the interior designer is the primary creator of the vision and the plan, and takes care of the more fun aspects of the service, while all the 'behind the scenes' aspects are taken care of by the window treatment specialist.  Listen in, to find out more.

Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives.

Vita and LuAnn have been getting some outstanding feedback about this series, so tune in today, to learn from them how to make window treatments a profitable center of revenue for your interior design firm.

Show Highlights:

  • Vita gives a recap of what she and LuAnn covered in the previous episode of this series, #462.
  • With the 'Done For You' model, the window treatment expert expects you to call them in right at the beginning of a new project.
  • Devising the strategy for window treatments is the first step.
  • The designer remains the leader and the window treatment expert helps the designer understand how to find the best solutions.
  • The importance of honing your communication skills.
  • The way that the window treatment experts can help you, the designer.
  • Coming up with the design is usually the most fun step for designers.
  • An expert is someone who has made every possible mistake in their field.
  • The role of the designer and the role of the window treatment expert.
  • Window treatment experts use systems to keep the designers in the loop.
  • Dealing with delays.
  • Creating efficiency with systems.
  • Vitalia Inc. uses Air Table, a very robust web-based project-management system that outlines every step of the project.
  • What it means to take responsibility.
  • The value you get from partnering with a window treatment expert.
  • This model is a win-win for the designer and the client.
  • Vita shares the questions that you need to ask, to find the best window treatment model that's the best fit.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Peter Lang #349 and #464

Links:

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc

Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at vita@vitaliainc.com

To learn more about working with Window Works

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

To learn about Exciting Windows

To get the PDF with the Goodies from today's episode: Luann Nigara If you join LuAnn's mailing list, you can access any information that we have uploaded relating to all the previous episodes of the podcast via this link.

]]> 3242 no 470: Christine Lin: Success Starts With Your Goals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/470-christine-lin-success-starts-with-your-goals Welcome! Today, Christine Lin, the founder of San Francisco-based Form + Field, joins us on the show. Christine sent LuAnn an email a while back, explaining how well her brand new interior design firm is doing due to all the strategies and tactics she's learned from listening to the podcast. Christine really has a lot going on for herself. She's a multi-disciplinary creative with degrees in architecture, engineering, and business, from MIT and UC Berkeley. After spending a successful decade in the tech industry, she has now returned to her true passion of interior design. Christine's rigorous training in corporate and startup environments gave her expert communication, management, and execution skills. She brings these skills, together with her well-honed eye for seeking out new art, design, and architecture, to her firm and all her design projects. Listen in today, to find out what Christine has learned, and how she successfully applies these lessons to her business. Form + Field creates original interiors that honor the identity, history, and surroundings of their clients. With an emphasis on art, architecture, and eclectic modernism, they cultivate every project as a partnership. Form + Field has been widely recognized by publications such as Domino, Rue, California Homes, and Hospitality Design. Tune in now, to hear Christine's story. Show Highlights: Christine shares her takeaways from her experience of working part-time for another designer, and from listening to the podcast. Running your business as if it's already a big business. Christine didn't want to be putting out fires in her business. The salary that Christine paid herself last year. When she first started out, Christine paid herself a salary of $5000 per month. Establishing your company's revenue goals. Doing whatever it takes to reach your goal. Some of the key things that Christine did to get clients, when she started out on her own in business. Setting professional boundaries and treating friends as formal clients. A contract protects both the designer and the client. Boundaries create freedom. Christine shares some of the growing pains from her first year in business. Systemizing your hiring process will save you money in the long run. Cleaning up your accounting system is very important for your business. A hard lesson that Christine learned. Talking about estimates and fees. Learning to keep every aspect of your business within your control. Links: Website: Form And Field Instagram: Form And Field Pinterest: Form And Field Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Judith Taylor #340 Eileen Hahn #363 At 10 am on October 10th, 2019, LuAnn will be at the Stanford Waterside Design District, in Connecticut for her free, full-day event. This event is co-sponsored by the Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. Please join us there! You can find the RSVP on the EVENTS page of LuAnn's website. LuAnn Nigara Tue, 01 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Christine Lin: Success Starts With Your Goals full 470 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Christine Lin, the founder of San Francisco-based Form + Field, joins us on the show. Christine sent LuAnn an email a while back, explaining how well her brand new interior design firm is doing due to all the strategies and tactics... Welcome! Today, Christine Lin, the founder of San Francisco-based Form + Field, joins us on the show. Christine sent LuAnn an email a while back, explaining how well her brand new interior design firm is doing due to all the strategies and tactics she's learned from listening to the podcast. Christine really has a lot going on for herself. She's a multi-disciplinary creative with degrees in architecture, engineering, and business, from MIT and UC Berkeley. After spending a successful decade in the tech industry, she has now returned to her true passion of interior design. Christine's rigorous training in corporate and startup environments gave her expert communication, management, and execution skills. She brings these skills, together with her well-honed eye for seeking out new art, design, and architecture, to her firm and all her design projects. Listen in today, to find out what Christine has learned, and how she successfully applies these lessons to her business. Form + Field creates original interiors that honor the identity, history, and surroundings of their clients. With an emphasis on art, architecture, and eclectic modernism, they cultivate every project as a partnership. Form + Field has been widely recognized by publications such as Domino, Rue, California Homes, and Hospitality Design. Tune in now, to hear Christine's story. Show Highlights: Christine shares her takeaways from her experience of working part-time for another designer, and from listening to the podcast. Running your business as if it's already a big business. Christine didn't want to be putting out fires in her business. The salary that Christine paid herself last year. When she first started out, Christine paid herself a salary of $5000 per month. Establishing your company's revenue goals. Doing whatever it takes to reach your goal. Some of the key things that Christine did to get clients, when she started out on her own in business. Setting professional boundaries and treating friends as formal clients. A contract protects both the designer and the client. Boundaries create freedom. Christine shares some of the growing pains from her first year in business. Systemizing your hiring process will save you money in the long run. Cleaning up your accounting system is very important for your business. A hard lesson that Christine learned. Talking about estimates and fees. Learning to keep every aspect of your business within your control. Links: Website: Form And Field Instagram: Form And Field Pinterest: Form And Field Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Judith Taylor #340 Eileen Hahn #363 At 10 am on October 10th, 2019, LuAnn will be at the Stanford Waterside Design District, in Connecticut for her free, full-day event. This event is co-sponsored by the Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. Please join us there! You can find the RSVP on the EVENTS page of LuAnn's website. LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Christine Lin, the founder of San Francisco-based Form + Field, joins us on the show. Christine sent LuAnn an email a while back, explaining how well her brand new interior design firm is doing due to all the strategies and tactics she's learned from listening to the podcast. Christine really has a lot going on for herself. She's a multi-disciplinary creative with degrees in architecture, engineering, and business, from MIT and UC Berkeley. After spending a successful decade in the tech industry, she has now returned to her true passion of interior design. Christine's rigorous training in corporate and startup environments gave her expert communication, management, and execution skills. She brings these skills, together with her well-honed eye for seeking out new art, design, and architecture, to her firm and all her design projects. Listen in today, to find out what Christine has learned, and how she successfully applies these lessons to her business.

Form + Field creates original interiors that honor the identity, history, and surroundings of their clients. With an emphasis on art, architecture, and eclectic modernism, they cultivate every project as a partnership. Form + Field has been widely recognized by publications such as Domino, Rue, California Homes, and Hospitality Design. Tune in now, to hear Christine's story.

Show Highlights:

  • Christine shares her takeaways from her experience of working part-time for another designer, and from listening to the podcast.
  • Running your business as if it's already a big business.
  • Christine didn't want to be putting out fires in her business.
  • The salary that Christine paid herself last year.
  • When she first started out, Christine paid herself a salary of $5000 per month.
  • Establishing your company's revenue goals.
  • Doing whatever it takes to reach your goal.
  • Some of the key things that Christine did to get clients, when she started out on her own in business.
  • Setting professional boundaries and treating friends as formal clients.
  • A contract protects both the designer and the client.
  • Boundaries create freedom.
  • Christine shares some of the growing pains from her first year in business.
  • Systemizing your hiring process will save you money in the long run.
  • Cleaning up your accounting system is very important for your business.
  • A hard lesson that Christine learned.
  • Talking about estimates and fees.
  • Learning to keep every aspect of your business within your control.

Links:

Website: Form And Field

Instagram: Form And Field

Pinterest: Form And Field

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Judith Taylor #340

Eileen Hahn #363

At 10 am on October 10th, 2019, LuAnn will be at the Stanford Waterside Design District, in Connecticut for her free, full-day event. This event is co-sponsored by the Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. Please join us there! You can find the RSVP on the EVENTS page of LuAnn's website. LuAnn Nigara

]]> 4088 no 469: What is the Power Talk Friday Tour? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/469-what-is-the-power-talk-friday-tour Welcome! We're bringing you this extra little episode of A Well-Designed Business today because, over the past months, many of you have told LuAnn that you don't know what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. And a number of you have expressed just how much you need it, after finding out what it's all about. In light of this, LuAnn decided to take some time to explain exactly what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. Tune in now, to find out! Over the nearly forty years that LuAnn has been in business, she's learned a lot about creating a successful business from the deeper conversations she's had with other business owners. Almost every other owner of a thriving business that she's spoken to has had some or other sort of business coaching throughout their career. This is why LuAnn believes in business coaches and business coaching. And why she believes in business mentors and mentees, and business besties. In today's episode, she defines each of these roles, and she explains how all of this ties into the Power Talk Friday Tour. Listen in today, to find out what the Power Talk Friday Tour is, and how it happened. Show highlights: How the Power Talk Friday Tour happened. One-on-one business coaching is at the top of the food chain but not everyone can afford it. Sometimes you need someone to help you implement the new things you've learned about. Perhaps you just need someone to talk to about a new idea you've had for your business.  LuAnn has selected the coaches that she respects and admires for the Tours, and she rotates them for each Tour. Why the PTF Tour is enough of an investment to make you think. Most of the experts typically charge between $400 and $700 per hour for one-on-one coaching. The conversations will be geared to hit the points that are relevant to everyone in the room. There will be small, round-table discussions with the experts after lunch. If the group is really small, you might even get a one-on-one. This event is small for a very good reason. Every single tour is different. The day always ends with a celebration dinner!   Links: To find the information about the next tour that's coming up, go to www.powertalkfriday.com. If you'd like to find out if the Power Talk Friday Tour is right for you at this time, email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put Power Talk Friday Tour in the subject line, leave your phone number, and LuAnn will call you within 24 hours.  Thank you to MyDoma Studio and Revel Woods for committing to sponsor every Power Talk Friday Tour! Sat, 28 Sep 2019 11:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We're bringing you this extra little episode of A Well-Designed Business today because, over the past months, many of you have told LuAnn that you don't know what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. And a number of you have expressed just how much... Welcome! We're bringing you this extra little episode of A Well-Designed Business today because, over the past months, many of you have told LuAnn that you don't know what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. And a number of you have expressed just how much you need it, after finding out what it's all about. In light of this, LuAnn decided to take some time to explain exactly what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. Tune in now, to find out! Over the nearly forty years that LuAnn has been in business, she's learned a lot about creating a successful business from the deeper conversations she's had with other business owners. Almost every other owner of a thriving business that she's spoken to has had some or other sort of business coaching throughout their career. This is why LuAnn believes in business coaches and business coaching. And why she believes in business mentors and mentees, and business besties. In today's episode, she defines each of these roles, and she explains how all of this ties into the Power Talk Friday Tour. Listen in today, to find out what the Power Talk Friday Tour is, and how it happened. Show highlights: How the Power Talk Friday Tour happened. One-on-one business coaching is at the top of the food chain but not everyone can afford it. Sometimes you need someone to help you implement the new things you've learned about. Perhaps you just need someone to talk to about a new idea you've had for your business.  LuAnn has selected the coaches that she respects and admires for the Tours, and she rotates them for each Tour. Why the PTF Tour is enough of an investment to make you think. Most of the experts typically charge between $400 and $700 per hour for one-on-one coaching. The conversations will be geared to hit the points that are relevant to everyone in the room. There will be small, round-table discussions with the experts after lunch. If the group is really small, you might even get a one-on-one. This event is small for a very good reason. Every single tour is different. The day always ends with a celebration dinner!   Links: To find the information about the next tour that's coming up, go to www.powertalkfriday.com. If you'd like to find out if the Power Talk Friday Tour is right for you at this time, email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put Power Talk Friday Tour in the subject line, leave your phone number, and LuAnn will call you within 24 hours.  Thank you to MyDoma Studio and Revel Woods for committing to sponsor every Power Talk Friday Tour! Welcome! We're bringing you this extra little episode of A Well-Designed Business today because, over the past months, many of you have told LuAnn that you don't know what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. And a number of you have expressed just how much you need it, after finding out what it's all about. In light of this, LuAnn decided to take some time to explain exactly what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. Tune in now, to find out!

Over the nearly forty years that LuAnn has been in business, she's learned a lot about creating a successful business from the deeper conversations she's had with other business owners. Almost every other owner of a thriving business that she's spoken to has had some or other sort of business coaching throughout their career. This is why LuAnn believes in business coaches and business coaching. And why she believes in business mentors and mentees, and business besties. In today's episode, she defines each of these roles, and she explains how all of this ties into the Power Talk Friday Tour. Listen in today, to find out what the Power Talk Friday Tour is, and how it happened.

Show highlights:

  • How the Power Talk Friday Tour happened.
  • One-on-one business coaching is at the top of the food chain but not everyone can afford it.
  • Sometimes you need someone to help you implement the new things you've learned about.
  • Perhaps you just need someone to talk to about a new idea you've had for your business. 
  • LuAnn has selected the coaches that she respects and admires for the Tours, and she rotates them for each Tour.
  • Why the PTF Tour is enough of an investment to make you think.
  • Most of the experts typically charge between $400 and $700 per hour for one-on-one coaching.
  • The conversations will be geared to hit the points that are relevant to everyone in the room.
  • There will be small, round-table discussions with the experts after lunch. If the group is really small, you might even get a one-on-one.
  • This event is small for a very good reason.
  • Every single tour is different.
  • The day always ends with a celebration dinner!

 

Links:

To find the information about the next tour that's coming up, go to www.powertalkfriday.com.

If you'd like to find out if the Power Talk Friday Tour is right for you at this time, email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put Power Talk Friday Tour in the subject line, leave your phone number, and LuAnn will call you within 24 hours. 

Thank you to MyDoma Studio and Revel Woods for committing to sponsor every Power Talk Friday Tour!

]]> 1012 no 468: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Micciche: Why Every Business Needs a Succession Plan http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/469-power-talk-friday-ashley-micciche-why-every-business-needs-a-succession-plan Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors, on the show with us today, and we're talking exit strategies. This is a very important topic because you will need an exit strategy when you get to the point in your business career where you begin thinking about whether your business is viable to sell, why you should sell it, how to sell it, and what it's worth. Everything you do in your business is about building it and setting yourself up for success. So, even if you've only been in business for a short while, you have no intention of selling in the foreseeable future, and you feel that your retirement is still a long way away, you will still benefit from this podcast. Listen in to find out more. Ashley started her career as a financial advisor in 2007, after graduating, magna cum laude, with a bachelor of science degree in business finance, from Portland State University. True North Retirement Advisors is an independent financial advisory firm,  located just outside of Portland Oregon, that manages two-hundred-and-thirty-million dollars in client assets. In today's episode, Ashley explains to us how she specializes in designing, building, and implementing business exit plans to help business owners secure their final and most important business decision- their exit strategy. Ashley's mission is to transition 300 small business owners successfully into retirement in ten years, so tune in today, to find out what she has to share about planning smartly for your future. Show Highlights: Most businesses revolve around their owners, and that impacts negatively on the value of the business. Creating a thriving, systemized, well-oiled machine. Thinking about how your business could go on after you, or be sold when you are ready. Preparing for your exit as if you are going to do it. Where to start with thinking about exiting. What drives the value of your business? Ashley dispells a myth about valuing a business. Some things you should be aware of that decrease the value of a business. Ashley has a valuation tool and checklist on her website that you can use to value your business in just a few minutes. Some things to safeguard against. Getting unstuck and exiting your business with three universal steps. It's very important to get an expert to guide you through the process of selling or buying a business. Go to Value My Business to value your business.                               Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Meadowbank Team: #302 Do Not Let Us Design For You: #346 Eileen Hahn: #363 Links: True North RA Well Designed Article Free Checklist & Unlimited Access To Our Business Valuation Tool Alex: One Minute Retirement Tip: Subscribe on iTunes Blog: True North Retirement Advisors Website: rue North Retirement Advisors Facebook: rue North Retirement Advisors LinkedIn: Ashley Micciche LuAnn will be at the IDS Elevate Conference in Portland Oregon on Friday 1st November. RSVP link: ID Sport Land Fri, 27 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Micciche: Why Every Business Needs a Succession Plan full 469 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors, on the show with us today, and we're talking exit strategies. This is a very important topic because you will need an exit strategy when you get to the... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors, on the show with us today, and we're talking exit strategies. This is a very important topic because you will need an exit strategy when you get to the point in your business career where you begin thinking about whether your business is viable to sell, why you should sell it, how to sell it, and what it's worth. Everything you do in your business is about building it and setting yourself up for success. So, even if you've only been in business for a short while, you have no intention of selling in the foreseeable future, and you feel that your retirement is still a long way away, you will still benefit from this podcast. Listen in to find out more. Ashley started her career as a financial advisor in 2007, after graduating, magna cum laude, with a bachelor of science degree in business finance, from Portland State University. True North Retirement Advisors is an independent financial advisory firm,  located just outside of Portland Oregon, that manages two-hundred-and-thirty-million dollars in client assets. In today's episode, Ashley explains to us how she specializes in designing, building, and implementing business exit plans to help business owners secure their final and most important business decision- their exit strategy. Ashley's mission is to transition 300 small business owners successfully into retirement in ten years, so tune in today, to find out what she has to share about planning smartly for your future. Show Highlights: Most businesses revolve around their owners, and that impacts negatively on the value of the business. Creating a thriving, systemized, well-oiled machine. Thinking about how your business could go on after you, or be sold when you are ready. Preparing for your exit as if you are going to do it. Where to start with thinking about exiting. What drives the value of your business? Ashley dispells a myth about valuing a business. Some things you should be aware of that decrease the value of a business. Ashley has a valuation tool and checklist on her website that you can use to value your business in just a few minutes. Some things to safeguard against. Getting unstuck and exiting your business with three universal steps. It's very important to get an expert to guide you through the process of selling or buying a business. Go to Value My Business to value your business.                               Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Meadowbank Team: #302 Do Not Let Us Design For You: #346 Eileen Hahn: #363 Links: True North RA Well Designed Article Free Checklist & Unlimited Access To Our Business Valuation Tool Alex: One Minute Retirement Tip: Subscribe on iTunes Blog: True North Retirement Advisors Website: rue North Retirement Advisors Facebook: rue North Retirement Advisors LinkedIn: Ashley Micciche LuAnn will be at the IDS Elevate Conference in Portland Oregon on Friday 1st November. RSVP link: ID Sport Land Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors, on the show with us today, and we're talking exit strategies. This is a very important topic because you will need an exit strategy when you get to the point in your business career where you begin thinking about whether your business is viable to sell, why you should sell it, how to sell it, and what it's worth. Everything you do in your business is about building it and setting yourself up for success. So, even if you've only been in business for a short while, you have no intention of selling in the foreseeable future, and you feel that your retirement is still a long way away, you will still benefit from this podcast. Listen in to find out more.

Ashley started her career as a financial advisor in 2007, after graduating, magna cum laude, with a bachelor of science degree in business finance, from Portland State University. True North Retirement Advisors is an independent financial advisory firm,  located just outside of Portland Oregon, that manages two-hundred-and-thirty-million dollars in client assets. In today's episode, Ashley explains to us how she specializes in designing, building, and implementing business exit plans to help business owners secure their final and most important business decision- their exit strategy. Ashley's mission is to transition 300 small business owners successfully into retirement in ten years, so tune in today, to find out what she has to share about planning smartly for your future.

Show Highlights:

  • Most businesses revolve around their owners, and that impacts negatively on the value of the business.
  • Creating a thriving, systemized, well-oiled machine.
  • Thinking about how your business could go on after you, or be sold when you are ready.
  • Preparing for your exit as if you are going to do it.
  • Where to start with thinking about exiting.
  • What drives the value of your business?
  • Ashley dispells a myth about valuing a business.
  • Some things you should be aware of that decrease the value of a business.
  • Ashley has a valuation tool and checklist on her website that you can use to value your business in just a few minutes.
  • Some things to safeguard against.
  • Getting unstuck and exiting your business with three universal steps.
  • It's very important to get an expert to guide you through the process of selling or buying a business.
  • Go to Value My Business to value your business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Meadowbank Team: #302

Do Not Let Us Design For You: #346

Eileen Hahn: #363

Links:

True North RA

Well Designed Article

Free Checklist & Unlimited Access To Our Business Valuation Tool

Alex: One Minute Retirement Tip: Subscribe on iTunes

Blog: True North Retirement Advisors

Website: rue North Retirement Advisors

Facebook: rue North Retirement Advisors

LinkedIn: Ashley Micciche

LuAnn will be at the IDS Elevate Conference in Portland Oregon on Friday 1st November. RSVP link: ID Sport Land

]]> 3515 no 467: Taylor Spellman: Hard Truths on Why You Need to Manage the 80% Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/467-taylor-spellman-hard-truths-on-why-you-need-to-manage-the-80-business Welcome to the show! We have another one of those rare shows today, where our guest bravely pulls back the curtain and talks to us openly about what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and to go through very tough times where everything is on the line. Taylor Spellman, the CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, previously appeared on the podcast in episode #106. She's back with us today to talk about an eye-opening lesson she recently learned about running a business. Taylor wanted to share this lesson with you so that you might not have to make the same mistake in your business. Tune in now, to learn something very important from Taylor. Taylor is a #smart lady, and she's really funny too! Her firm specializes in a concierge level of project management. At any one time in her business, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction, as well as all the press and the Bravo TV shows that she has. Tune in today, to hear about the grave challenge that she recently faced and overcame. Show Highlights: Taylor explains what happened when LuAnn called to ask her to do LuAnn Live. Taylor talks about the things that caused the very difficult time that her business went through. Why you have to be very clear about what you want to do with your money. The importance of being prepared. Learning to trust the right people. Why you need to have a finger on all your accounting systems. There's a fine line between negligence and malicious intent, but the results are often the same. How Taylor's ability to value the privilege of having a home has shaped her work. Taylor learned the value of money the hard way. Taylor tells a cautionary tale about the hazards of hiring friends. Learning to run her business from her brain, rather than her heart. Getting rid of all her staff and hiring new people. The importance of tracking and checking everything in your business. Protecting your business, and your staff, with accountability. Keeping up with your goals as they unfold. Realizing who you are and moving forward. Bio: As CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, Taylor’s client-centric focus is bold and eclectic, showcasing the personality of the inhabitants of the spaces she creates. At any given moment, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction. The firm specializes in a concierge level of project management with TSNY’s team of designers, contractors, and architects directing each phase of production from conception to completion at the top commercial, residential and new development properties throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Taylor has been featured in The Real Deal, Architectural Digest, The New York Times, E! News, Elle Décor and People Magazine in addition to hosting her own design show on BRAVO. You can meet Taylor, in person, at High Point, with LuAnn, Sandra Funk, and Lori Paranjape, on Sunday, October 20th, 2019, at Suria, at 2 pm. This panel, titled Confidence Sells, is co-sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Suria. Links: Website: Taylor Spellman Facebook: Taylor Spellman Instagram: Taylor Spellman Would you like to meet Luann in Connecticut on the 10th of October, 2019? This outstanding full-day event is co-sponsored by The Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. The first 100 RSVPs that also show up will receive a free copy of LuAnn's second book. To RSVP, go to Luann Nigara, and look for the event in the Events and Coaching tab. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Elissa Grayer #451 Wendy Glaister #386 Tue, 24 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Taylor Spellman: Hard Truths on Why You Need to Manage the 80% Business full 467 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have another one of those rare shows today, where our guest bravely pulls back the curtain and talks to us openly about what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and to go through very tough times where everything is on the line.... Welcome to the show! We have another one of those rare shows today, where our guest bravely pulls back the curtain and talks to us openly about what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and to go through very tough times where everything is on the line. Taylor Spellman, the CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, previously appeared on the podcast in episode #106. She's back with us today to talk about an eye-opening lesson she recently learned about running a business. Taylor wanted to share this lesson with you so that you might not have to make the same mistake in your business. Tune in now, to learn something very important from Taylor. Taylor is a #smart lady, and she's really funny too! Her firm specializes in a concierge level of project management. At any one time in her business, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction, as well as all the press and the Bravo TV shows that she has. Tune in today, to hear about the grave challenge that she recently faced and overcame. Show Highlights: Taylor explains what happened when LuAnn called to ask her to do LuAnn Live. Taylor talks about the things that caused the very difficult time that her business went through. Why you have to be very clear about what you want to do with your money. The importance of being prepared. Learning to trust the right people. Why you need to have a finger on all your accounting systems. There's a fine line between negligence and malicious intent, but the results are often the same. How Taylor's ability to value the privilege of having a home has shaped her work. Taylor learned the value of money the hard way. Taylor tells a cautionary tale about the hazards of hiring friends. Learning to run her business from her brain, rather than her heart. Getting rid of all her staff and hiring new people. The importance of tracking and checking everything in your business. Protecting your business, and your staff, with accountability. Keeping up with your goals as they unfold. Realizing who you are and moving forward. Bio: As CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, Taylor’s client-centric focus is bold and eclectic, showcasing the personality of the inhabitants of the spaces she creates. At any given moment, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction. The firm specializes in a concierge level of project management with TSNY’s team of designers, contractors, and architects directing each phase of production from conception to completion at the top commercial, residential and new development properties throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Taylor has been featured in The Real Deal, Architectural Digest, The New York Times, E! News, Elle Décor and People Magazine in addition to hosting her own design show on BRAVO. You can meet Taylor, in person, at High Point, with LuAnn, Sandra Funk, and Lori Paranjape, on Sunday, October 20th, 2019, at Suria, at 2 pm. This panel, titled Confidence Sells, is co-sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Suria. Links: Website: Taylor Spellman Facebook: Taylor Spellman Instagram: Taylor Spellman Would you like to meet Luann in Connecticut on the 10th of October, 2019? This outstanding full-day event is co-sponsored by The Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. The first 100 RSVPs that also show up will receive a free copy of LuAnn's second book. To RSVP, go to Luann Nigara, and look for the event in the Events and Coaching tab. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Elissa Grayer #451 Wendy Glaister #386 Welcome to the show! We have another one of those rare shows today, where our guest bravely pulls back the curtain and talks to us openly about what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and to go through very tough times where everything is on the line. Taylor Spellman, the CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, previously appeared on the podcast in episode #106. She's back with us today to talk about an eye-opening lesson she recently learned about running a business. Taylor wanted to share this lesson with you so that you might not have to make the same mistake in your business. Tune in now, to learn something very important from Taylor.

Taylor is a #smart lady, and she's really funny too! Her firm specializes in a concierge level of project management. At any one time in her business, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction, as well as all the press and the Bravo TV shows that she has. Tune in today, to hear about the grave challenge that she recently faced and overcame.

Show Highlights:

  • Taylor explains what happened when LuAnn called to ask her to do LuAnn Live.
  • Taylor talks about the things that caused the very difficult time that her business went through.
  • Why you have to be very clear about what you want to do with your money.
  • The importance of being prepared.
  • Learning to trust the right people.
  • Why you need to have a finger on all your accounting systems.
  • There's a fine line between negligence and malicious intent, but the results are often the same.
  • How Taylor's ability to value the privilege of having a home has shaped her work.
  • Taylor learned the value of money the hard way.
  • Taylor tells a cautionary tale about the hazards of hiring friends.
  • Learning to run her business from her brain, rather than her heart.
  • Getting rid of all her staff and hiring new people.
  • The importance of tracking and checking everything in your business.
  • Protecting your business, and your staff, with accountability.
  • Keeping up with your goals as they unfold.
  • Realizing who you are and moving forward.

Bio:

As CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, Taylor’s client-centric focus is bold and eclectic, showcasing the personality of the inhabitants of the spaces she creates. At any given moment, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction. The firm specializes in a concierge level of project management with TSNY’s team of designers, contractors, and architects directing each phase of production from conception to completion at the top commercial, residential and new development properties throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Taylor has been featured in The Real Deal, Architectural Digest, The New York Times, E! News, Elle Décor and People Magazine in addition to hosting her own design show on BRAVO.

You can meet Taylor, in person, at High Point, with LuAnn, Sandra Funk, and Lori Paranjape, on Sunday, October 20th, 2019, at Suria, at 2 pm. This panel, titled Confidence Sells, is co-sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Suria.

Links:

Website: Taylor Spellman

Facebook: Taylor Spellman

Instagram: Taylor Spellman

Would you like to meet Luann in Connecticut on the 10th of October, 2019? This outstanding full-day event is co-sponsored by The Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home.

The first 100 RSVPs that also show up will receive a free copy of LuAnn's second book. To RSVP, go to Luann Nigara, and look for the event in the Events and Coaching tab.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Elissa Grayer #451

Wendy Glaister #386

]]> 4040 no 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You've Defined Your Brand...Now What? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/466-power-talk-friday-nicole-heymer-youve-defined-your-brandnow-what Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nicole Heymer, the owner and founder of Curio Electro, back with us today. Nicole is our website designer and developer, she's our branding guru, and she's also a co-author and the book-cover designer for LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume One. Nicole's chapter in the book is about the questions you need to be asking yourself and your clients, to discover, establish, and make very clear what your brand is. In today's episode, she will be taking the concept of defining your brand a step further by explaining how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business and giving you an exercise to help you to get this done. Tune in now, to find out what Nicole has to teach you about visual branding, brand voice, and messaging. Curio Electro was founded in 2011. It is the go-to for businesses seeking smart and practical digital branding that gets results. They are experts in curating your brand voice and finding the aspects of your business that will draw in new clients by creating compelling websites and thinking through what happens after everything goes live. The collaboration with Nicole and her team is outstanding, so even after the website has been built, she and her team continue to provide marketing materials and social media graphics. We truly respect Nicole for her expertise and her business acumen. Listen in today, to learn how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business. Show Highlights: What you need to know about what shapes people's beliefs about your brand. Knowing what it takes to make people believe something about a brand. Creating moments for people, and telling stories. The little things that are very important to deliver to your clients. Using every aspect of your business to tell people exactly what they can expect from you. Your message has to align with what you're doing. People subconsciously judge you on your visual branding. Demonstrating to the consumer how you stand out from the rest. How you make more money when you have your brand clearly defined. Nicole shares some ways to tell your brand story, to make it real for people. Some ways to delight and surprise people with the technology you use in your business. Talk about your charitable contributions. They say a lot about your brand. Video is a really powerful way to tell your story. How to organize and prioritize your systems and your marketing. The different courses that Nicole offers to assist designers. Bio: Nicole Heymer is the founder of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency specializing in intuitive branding, compelling design, and actionable plans. Since 2011, Curio Electro has worked within a multitude of industries and with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local craft breweries. Nicole's clear, practical take on creating a memorable brand has been featured in print, on podcasts, and as the framework for branding workshops. She is an active ASID Industry Partner and has served as the Editor of NJ ASID's Blueprint Magazine. Links: Website: Curio Electro Instagram: Curio Electro LinkedIn: Nicole Heymer Facebook: Curio Electro Nicole's Course for Interior Designers: Branding Discovery Get the Goodies from Today's Episode For Claire Jefford's courses Nicole will be at the Power Talk Friday Tour High Point Nicole's Previous Episodes: #125 & #317 Previous Episodes Mentioned in the Show: Pulp Design Studio #176 Savour Partnership  #209 and #458 Claire Jefford #237 and #325 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274 Fri, 20 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You've Defined Your Brand...Now What? full 466 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nicole Heymer, the owner and founder of Curio Electro, back with us today. Nicole is our website designer and developer, she's our branding guru, and she's also a co-author and the book-cover designer for LuAnn's... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nicole Heymer, the owner and founder of Curio Electro, back with us today. Nicole is our website designer and developer, she's our branding guru, and she's also a co-author and the book-cover designer for LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume One. Nicole's chapter in the book is about the questions you need to be asking yourself and your clients, to discover, establish, and make very clear what your brand is. In today's episode, she will be taking the concept of defining your brand a step further by explaining how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business and giving you an exercise to help you to get this done. Tune in now, to find out what Nicole has to teach you about visual branding, brand voice, and messaging. Curio Electro was founded in 2011. It is the go-to for businesses seeking smart and practical digital branding that gets results. They are experts in curating your brand voice and finding the aspects of your business that will draw in new clients by creating compelling websites and thinking through what happens after everything goes live. The collaboration with Nicole and her team is outstanding, so even after the website has been built, she and her team continue to provide marketing materials and social media graphics. We truly respect Nicole for her expertise and her business acumen. Listen in today, to learn how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business. Show Highlights: What you need to know about what shapes people's beliefs about your brand. Knowing what it takes to make people believe something about a brand. Creating moments for people, and telling stories. The little things that are very important to deliver to your clients. Using every aspect of your business to tell people exactly what they can expect from you. Your message has to align with what you're doing. People subconsciously judge you on your visual branding. Demonstrating to the consumer how you stand out from the rest. How you make more money when you have your brand clearly defined. Nicole shares some ways to tell your brand story, to make it real for people. Some ways to delight and surprise people with the technology you use in your business. Talk about your charitable contributions. They say a lot about your brand. Video is a really powerful way to tell your story. How to organize and prioritize your systems and your marketing. The different courses that Nicole offers to assist designers. Bio: Nicole Heymer is the founder of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency specializing in intuitive branding, compelling design, and actionable plans. Since 2011, Curio Electro has worked within a multitude of industries and with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local craft breweries. Nicole's clear, practical take on creating a memorable brand has been featured in print, on podcasts, and as the framework for branding workshops. She is an active ASID Industry Partner and has served as the Editor of NJ ASID's Blueprint Magazine. Links: Website: Curio Electro Instagram: Curio Electro LinkedIn: Nicole Heymer Facebook: Curio Electro Nicole's Course for Interior Designers: Branding Discovery Get the Goodies from Today's Episode For Claire Jefford's courses Nicole will be at the Power Talk Friday Tour High Point Nicole's Previous Episodes: #125 & #317 Previous Episodes Mentioned in the Show: Pulp Design Studio #176 Savour Partnership  #209 and #458 Claire Jefford #237 and #325 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nicole Heymer, the owner and founder of Curio Electro, back with us today. Nicole is our website designer and developer, she's our branding guru, and she's also a co-author and the book-cover designer for LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume One. Nicole's chapter in the book is about the questions you need to be asking yourself and your clients, to discover, establish, and make very clear what your brand is. In today's episode, she will be taking the concept of defining your brand a step further by explaining how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business and giving you an exercise to help you to get this done. Tune in now, to find out what Nicole has to teach you about visual branding, brand voice, and messaging.

Curio Electro was founded in 2011. It is the go-to for businesses seeking smart and practical digital branding that gets results. They are experts in curating your brand voice and finding the aspects of your business that will draw in new clients by creating compelling websites and thinking through what happens after everything goes live. The collaboration with Nicole and her team is outstanding, so even after the website has been built, she and her team continue to provide marketing materials and social media graphics. We truly respect Nicole for her expertise and her business acumen. Listen in today, to learn how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business.

Show Highlights:

  • What you need to know about what shapes people's beliefs about your brand.
  • Knowing what it takes to make people believe something about a brand.
  • Creating moments for people, and telling stories.
  • The little things that are very important to deliver to your clients.
  • Using every aspect of your business to tell people exactly what they can expect from you.
  • Your message has to align with what you're doing.
  • People subconsciously judge you on your visual branding.
  • Demonstrating to the consumer how you stand out from the rest.
  • How you make more money when you have your brand clearly defined.
  • Nicole shares some ways to tell your brand story, to make it real for people.
  • Some ways to delight and surprise people with the technology you use in your business.
  • Talk about your charitable contributions. They say a lot about your brand.
  • Video is a really powerful way to tell your story.
  • How to organize and prioritize your systems and your marketing.
  • The different courses that Nicole offers to assist designers.

Bio:

Nicole Heymer is the founder of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency specializing in intuitive branding, compelling design, and actionable plans. Since 2011, Curio Electro has worked within a multitude of industries and with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local craft breweries. Nicole's clear, practical take on creating a memorable brand has been featured in print, on podcasts, and as the framework for branding workshops. She is an active ASID Industry Partner and has served as the Editor of NJ ASID's Blueprint Magazine.

Links:

Website: Curio Electro

Instagram: Curio Electro

LinkedIn: Nicole Heymer

Facebook: Curio Electro

Nicole's Course for Interior Designers: Branding Discovery

Get the Goodies from Today's Episode

For Claire Jefford's courses

Nicole will be at the Power Talk Friday Tour High Point

Nicole's Previous Episodes: #125 & #317

Previous Episodes Mentioned in the Show:

Pulp Design Studio #176

Savour Partnership  #209 and #458

Claire Jefford #237 and #325

Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274

]]> 4009 no 465: Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/465-jan-showers-a-glamorous-career Welcome to today's show, sponsored by Kravet Inc. We have the privilege today of having the Dallas-based interior designer, Jan Showers, join us on the show. As a successful entrepreneur, Jan understands the value of collaboration, which is a very important element of her business. In today's episode, she discusses her multi-faceted career, and she talks to us about the full lifestyle collection that she's created for Kravet, what it includes, and how her collaboration with Kravet came to be. Tune in now, to find out more! Jan's career spans three decades, and during this time, she has received many of the highest honors awarded to design professionals. Her magazine credits include Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Veranda, House Beautiful, InStyle, Traditional Home, British Home and Garden, Harper’s Bazaar, and Luxe. For the last five years, Architectural Digest has added Jan Showers and Associates to the AD100, their preeminent directory to the world of design. Jan has also written two books, Glamorous Rooms and the follow-up to that, called Glamorous Retreats. She's currently working on her third book, which is due to be released in the fall of 2020. Jan is truly one amazing lady! Listen in today, to hear about her insights and her reflections on her career. Show Highlights: Working hard, getting published, and having great photographs are all key to being noticed for the Architectural Digest's AD100. Where the inspiration for her book came from. The most challenging part of her business. Twenty years ago, Jan couldn't find what she wanted in the trade showrooms so she began creating a collection of her own, the Jan Showers Collection. Being prepared to get lucky! To do what Jan has done, you'd need to have strong systems in place, and an amazing team behind you. Jan talks about her collaboration with Kravet. Jan's impressive portfolio supplied most of the photographs for her book. Jan's third book, Glamorous Living, is coming out in September of next year. How Jan's mother influenced her life and career. High-level clients expect and deserve perfection. Jan discusses her history with Kravet. It's a good idea to start out working for someone else or to have a mentor. Jan shares her key to success. Bio: Jan Showers is a Dallas based interior designer and has been designing for clients for over 25 years. Her magazine credits alone place her in the highest echelon of designers. Aside from Jan’s interior design business, her career spans three different businesses. Jan has a to-the-trade custom furniture line, Jan Showers Collection, which is sold in eight showrooms across the U.S. Showers also has an antique showroom in the Dallas Design District, where she sells vintage items, as well as her new collection, 1308 Collection. Showers’ partnerships include a full lifestyle collection with Kravet Couture, a furniture collection with Kravet Furniture, which debuted at High Point 2019, a hand-knotted rug series for Moattar, Inc., a lighting series with L.A. based designer Joe Cariati and a cowhide rug collection for Kyle Bunting. Jan has written two books: Glamorous Rooms and her follow-up, Glamorous Retreats, both published by Abrams. She is working on writing a third book with Abrams to be released in fall 2020. Links: Website: Jan Showers Jan Showers & Kravet Inc Instagram: Jan Showers Facebook: Jan Showers Associates Twitter: Jan Showers Glamorous Rooms Glamorous Retreats Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Joe Cariati #197 Nate Berkus #433 Candice Olson #74 LuAnn and Jan will be at the Kravet showroom in the Boston Design Center on Wednesday, Oct 2nd, 2019. Please join them there! Tue, 17 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Jan Showers: A Glamorous Career full 465 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show, sponsored by Kravet Inc. We have the privilege today of having the Dallas-based interior designer, Jan Showers, join us on the show. As a successful entrepreneur, Jan understands the value of collaboration, which is a very... Welcome to today's show, sponsored by Kravet Inc. We have the privilege today of having the Dallas-based interior designer, Jan Showers, join us on the show. As a successful entrepreneur, Jan understands the value of collaboration, which is a very important element of her business. In today's episode, she discusses her multi-faceted career, and she talks to us about the full lifestyle collection that she's created for Kravet, what it includes, and how her collaboration with Kravet came to be. Tune in now, to find out more! Jan's career spans three decades, and during this time, she has received many of the highest honors awarded to design professionals. Her magazine credits include Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Veranda, House Beautiful, InStyle, Traditional Home, British Home and Garden, Harper’s Bazaar, and Luxe. For the last five years, Architectural Digest has added Jan Showers and Associates to the AD100, their preeminent directory to the world of design. Jan has also written two books, Glamorous Rooms and the follow-up to that, called Glamorous Retreats. She's currently working on her third book, which is due to be released in the fall of 2020. Jan is truly one amazing lady! Listen in today, to hear about her insights and her reflections on her career. Show Highlights: Working hard, getting published, and having great photographs are all key to being noticed for the Architectural Digest's AD100. Where the inspiration for her book came from. The most challenging part of her business. Twenty years ago, Jan couldn't find what she wanted in the trade showrooms so she began creating a collection of her own, the Jan Showers Collection. Being prepared to get lucky! To do what Jan has done, you'd need to have strong systems in place, and an amazing team behind you. Jan talks about her collaboration with Kravet. Jan's impressive portfolio supplied most of the photographs for her book. Jan's third book, Glamorous Living, is coming out in September of next year. How Jan's mother influenced her life and career. High-level clients expect and deserve perfection. Jan discusses her history with Kravet. It's a good idea to start out working for someone else or to have a mentor. Jan shares her key to success. Bio: Jan Showers is a Dallas based interior designer and has been designing for clients for over 25 years. Her magazine credits alone place her in the highest echelon of designers. Aside from Jan’s interior design business, her career spans three different businesses. Jan has a to-the-trade custom furniture line, Jan Showers Collection, which is sold in eight showrooms across the U.S. Showers also has an antique showroom in the Dallas Design District, where she sells vintage items, as well as her new collection, 1308 Collection. Showers’ partnerships include a full lifestyle collection with Kravet Couture, a furniture collection with Kravet Furniture, which debuted at High Point 2019, a hand-knotted rug series for Moattar, Inc., a lighting series with L.A. based designer Joe Cariati and a cowhide rug collection for Kyle Bunting. Jan has written two books: Glamorous Rooms and her follow-up, Glamorous Retreats, both published by Abrams. She is working on writing a third book with Abrams to be released in fall 2020. Links: Website: Jan Showers Jan Showers & Kravet Inc Instagram: Jan Showers Facebook: Jan Showers Associates Twitter: Jan Showers Glamorous Rooms Glamorous Retreats Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Joe Cariati #197 Nate Berkus #433 Candice Olson #74 LuAnn and Jan will be at the Kravet showroom in the Boston Design Center on Wednesday, Oct 2nd, 2019. Please join them there! Welcome to today's show, sponsored by Kravet Inc. We have the privilege today of having the Dallas-based interior designer, Jan Showers, join us on the show. As a successful entrepreneur, Jan understands the value of collaboration, which is a very important element of her business. In today's episode, she discusses her multi-faceted career, and she talks to us about the full lifestyle collection that she's created for Kravet, what it includes, and how her collaboration with Kravet came to be. Tune in now, to find out more!

Jan's career spans three decades, and during this time, she has received many of the highest honors awarded to design professionals. Her magazine credits include Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Veranda, House Beautiful, InStyle, Traditional Home, British Home and Garden, Harper’s Bazaar, and Luxe. For the last five years, Architectural Digest has added Jan Showers and Associates to the AD100, their preeminent directory to the world of design. Jan has also written two books, Glamorous Rooms and the follow-up to that, called Glamorous Retreats. She's currently working on her third book, which is due to be released in the fall of 2020. Jan is truly one amazing lady! Listen in today, to hear about her insights and her reflections on her career.

Show Highlights:

  • Working hard, getting published, and having great photographs are all key to being noticed for the Architectural Digest's AD100.
  • Where the inspiration for her book came from.
  • The most challenging part of her business.
  • Twenty years ago, Jan couldn't find what she wanted in the trade showrooms so she began creating a collection of her own, the Jan Showers Collection.
  • Being prepared to get lucky!
  • To do what Jan has done, you'd need to have strong systems in place, and an amazing team behind you.
  • Jan talks about her collaboration with Kravet.
  • Jan's impressive portfolio supplied most of the photographs for her book.
  • Jan's third book, Glamorous Living, is coming out in September of next year.
  • How Jan's mother influenced her life and career.
  • High-level clients expect and deserve perfection.
  • Jan discusses her history with Kravet.
  • It's a good idea to start out working for someone else or to have a mentor.
  • Jan shares her key to success.

Bio:

Jan Showers is a Dallas based interior designer and has been designing for clients for over 25 years. Her magazine credits alone place her in the highest echelon of designers. Aside from Jan’s interior design business, her career spans three different businesses. Jan has a to-the-trade custom furniture line, Jan Showers Collection, which is sold in eight showrooms across the U.S. Showers also has an antique showroom in the Dallas Design District, where she sells vintage items, as well as her new collection, 1308 Collection.

Showers’ partnerships include a full lifestyle collection with Kravet Couture, a furniture collection with Kravet Furniture, which debuted at High Point 2019, a hand-knotted rug series for Moattar, Inc., a lighting series with L.A. based designer Joe Cariati and a cowhide rug collection for Kyle Bunting.

Jan has written two books: Glamorous Rooms and her follow-up, Glamorous Retreats, both published by Abrams. She is working on writing a third book with Abrams to be released in fall 2020.

Links:

Website: Jan Showers

Jan Showers & Kravet Inc

Instagram: Jan Showers

Facebook: Jan Showers Associates

Twitter: Jan Showers


Glamorous Rooms

Glamorous Retreats

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Joe Cariati #197

Nate Berkus #433

Candice Olson #74

LuAnn and Jan will be at the Kravet showroom in the Boston Design Center on Wednesday, Oct 2nd, 2019. Please join them there!

]]> 4443 no 464: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/464-power-talk-friday-peter-lang-understanding-your-finances-freethedesigner Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, on the show with us today. Peter is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. He wrote chapter two of the book, called 'Find The Best Accountant For Your Firm' because, as a creative, it can be really hard to lock down the financial side of your business. Today, Peter, who previously appeared in episode #349 of the podcast, talks to us about how he teaches designers to understand everything they really need to know about their finances. Listen in, to find out more. Peter is The Designer CPA and he genuinely loves working exclusively with design professionals just like you. He has a really strong desire to help creatives, and his goal is to help you to become a confident partner with him around the financial side of your business. Peter is based in Rhode Island but he works remotely with designers all over the USA. Tune in now, to find out what he has to share.  Show Highlights: Peter and LuAnn are going to be doing Power Talk Friday together, at High Point, in October of this year. What Peter learned from the LuAnn Live event, last March. Having a great team does not mean that you should stop paying attention to your business. How Peter started teaching people about the right way to be looking at their finances. Why Peter won't work with certain people. Peter chooses to work with people who care. Peter talks about the different classes he teaches. The design industry is not straightforward when it comes down to finances. Peter understands this and he teaches you how to run your books accordingly. You want everyone on your team to be on the same page. Peter explains what his second course is all about, and how it was created specifically for the design industry. How these courses will prevent you from becoming marginalized by your CPA. Peter teaches you what you need to know about taxes. About the next course that Peter will be doing. About LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tours. Bio: Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew.  He enjoys running and golfing outside of work. Links: Website: The Designer CPA Power Talk Friday Tour Peter's Courses: Classes For Designers A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business Instagram: The Designer CPA Facebook: The Designer CPA Twitter: The Designer CPA Previous Shows Mentioned: Peter Lang #349 Fri, 13 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner full 464 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, on the show with us today. Peter is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. He wrote chapter two of the book,... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, on the show with us today. Peter is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. He wrote chapter two of the book, called 'Find The Best Accountant For Your Firm' because, as a creative, it can be really hard to lock down the financial side of your business. Today, Peter, who previously appeared in episode #349 of the podcast, talks to us about how he teaches designers to understand everything they really need to know about their finances. Listen in, to find out more. Peter is The Designer CPA and he genuinely loves working exclusively with design professionals just like you. He has a really strong desire to help creatives, and his goal is to help you to become a confident partner with him around the financial side of your business. Peter is based in Rhode Island but he works remotely with designers all over the USA. Tune in now, to find out what he has to share.  Show Highlights: Peter and LuAnn are going to be doing Power Talk Friday together, at High Point, in October of this year. What Peter learned from the LuAnn Live event, last March. Having a great team does not mean that you should stop paying attention to your business. How Peter started teaching people about the right way to be looking at their finances. Why Peter won't work with certain people. Peter chooses to work with people who care. Peter talks about the different classes he teaches. The design industry is not straightforward when it comes down to finances. Peter understands this and he teaches you how to run your books accordingly. You want everyone on your team to be on the same page. Peter explains what his second course is all about, and how it was created specifically for the design industry. How these courses will prevent you from becoming marginalized by your CPA. Peter teaches you what you need to know about taxes. About the next course that Peter will be doing. About LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tours. Bio: Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.   Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew.  He enjoys running and golfing outside of work. Links: Website: The Designer CPA Power Talk Friday Tour Peter's Courses: Classes For Designers A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business Instagram: The Designer CPA Facebook: The Designer CPA Twitter: The Designer CPA Previous Shows Mentioned: Peter Lang #349 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, on the show with us today. Peter is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. He wrote chapter two of the book, called 'Find The Best Accountant For Your Firm' because, as a creative, it can be really hard to lock down the financial side of your business. Today, Peter, who previously appeared in episode #349 of the podcast, talks to us about how he teaches designers to understand everything they really need to know about their finances. Listen in, to find out more.

Peter is The Designer CPA and he genuinely loves working exclusively with design professionals just like you. He has a really strong desire to help creatives, and his goal is to help you to become a confident partner with him around the financial side of your business. Peter is based in Rhode Island but he works remotely with designers all over the USA. Tune in now, to find out what he has to share. 

Show Highlights:

  • Peter and LuAnn are going to be doing Power Talk Friday together, at High Point, in October of this year.
  • What Peter learned from the LuAnn Live event, last March.
  • Having a great team does not mean that you should stop paying attention to your business.
  • How Peter started teaching people about the right way to be looking at their finances.
  • Why Peter won't work with certain people.
  • Peter chooses to work with people who care.
  • Peter talks about the different classes he teaches.
  • The design industry is not straightforward when it comes down to finances. Peter understands this and he teaches you how to run your books accordingly.
  • You want everyone on your team to be on the same page.
  • Peter explains what his second course is all about, and how it was created specifically for the design industry.
  • How these courses will prevent you from becoming marginalized by your CPA.
  • Peter teaches you what you need to know about taxes.
  • About the next course that Peter will be doing.
  • About LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tours.

Bio:

Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers.  

Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew.  He enjoys running and golfing outside of work.

Links:

Website: The Designer CPA

Power Talk Friday Tour

Peter's Courses: Classes For Designers

A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts

Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Instagram: The Designer CPA

Facebook: The Designer CPA

Twitter: The Designer CPA

Previous Shows Mentioned:

Peter Lang #349

]]> 3686 no 463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/463-sara-lynn-brennan-package-your-design-services-for-profit-and-clarity Welcome! Today, Sara Lynn Brennan joins us on the show. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Eighteen months ago, Sara contacted LuAnn, telling her that she wanted to go to High Point Market, but she wasn't sure what to do or where to go. So LuAnn arranged to meet her there, and Sara spent two days with LuAnn and Sara Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, going from event to event, hanging out, talking, and allowing Sara to get to know some significant and influential people in the design industry. Since then, Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Listen in today, to find out what Sara has to share. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.  In today's episode, Sara talks to us about the extra layer that she's added to her design business, and she explains how she's put the lessons that she's learned from the guests on the podcast into action. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: How MyDoma Studio inspired Sara to create packages. Sara shares a mind-blowing story about selling packages. Why you really need to go and look at Sara's website. Sara describes her really smooth process. Getting clear about the steps that are involved in any process. Coming up with a flat-rate fee. The great reward of instant gratification. Sara describes her consultation process. The way that Sara personalizes her packages. The discovery call is a very important part of the process. Creating an approachable package to reach more people. Coming up with a detailed DIY package. A package called 'DIY with an option to buy'. Sara talks about how she presents her e-design package. Creating these packages been a labor of love for Sara. Bio: Sara Lynn Brennan is an award-winning Entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina who specializes in Transitional Design. She and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Sara’s confident, unique and fearless approach to business and design make her an inspiration to those who work with and around her. Sara is known for her recognizable “Romantic Transitional” design aesthetic, but her award-winning design team is not just about creating pretty spaces. It is Sara’s mission to educate and expose clients to the beauty and functionality of transitional design. She and her team pride themselves on creating practical, beautiful, and timeless homes that families can really LIVE in for years to come. Links: Website: Sara Lynn Brennan Design Packages and Free E-Book: Sara Brennan Blog Post: Luann Nigara Baby Designer IG: @saralynnbrennan FB: Sara Brennan Soft Design Lab HPMKT Experience Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Mr. Inkredible #417 Kimberly Kay #234 Kelsey Grose #167 Megan Molten #455 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Deb Barrett #53 Tobi Fairley (1st one) Lori Paranjape #34 Tori Alexander #445 Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity full 463 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Sara Lynn Brennan joins us on the show. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Eighteen months ago, Sara contacted LuAnn, telling her that she wanted to go to High Point Market,... Welcome! Today, Sara Lynn Brennan joins us on the show. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Eighteen months ago, Sara contacted LuAnn, telling her that she wanted to go to High Point Market, but she wasn't sure what to do or where to go. So LuAnn arranged to meet her there, and Sara spent two days with LuAnn and Sara Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, going from event to event, hanging out, talking, and allowing Sara to get to know some significant and influential people in the design industry. Since then, Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Listen in today, to find out what Sara has to share. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.  In today's episode, Sara talks to us about the extra layer that she's added to her design business, and she explains how she's put the lessons that she's learned from the guests on the podcast into action. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: How MyDoma Studio inspired Sara to create packages. Sara shares a mind-blowing story about selling packages. Why you really need to go and look at Sara's website. Sara describes her really smooth process. Getting clear about the steps that are involved in any process. Coming up with a flat-rate fee. The great reward of instant gratification. Sara describes her consultation process. The way that Sara personalizes her packages. The discovery call is a very important part of the process. Creating an approachable package to reach more people. Coming up with a detailed DIY package. A package called 'DIY with an option to buy'. Sara talks about how she presents her e-design package. Creating these packages been a labor of love for Sara. Bio: Sara Lynn Brennan is an award-winning Entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina who specializes in Transitional Design. She and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Sara’s confident, unique and fearless approach to business and design make her an inspiration to those who work with and around her. Sara is known for her recognizable “Romantic Transitional” design aesthetic, but her award-winning design team is not just about creating pretty spaces. It is Sara’s mission to educate and expose clients to the beauty and functionality of transitional design. She and her team pride themselves on creating practical, beautiful, and timeless homes that families can really LIVE in for years to come. Links: Website: Sara Lynn Brennan Design Packages and Free E-Book: Sara Brennan Blog Post: Luann Nigara Baby Designer IG: @saralynnbrennan FB: Sara Brennan Soft Design Lab HPMKT Experience Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Mr. Inkredible #417 Kimberly Kay #234 Kelsey Grose #167 Megan Molten #455 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Deb Barrett #53 Tobi Fairley (1st one) Lori Paranjape #34 Tori Alexander #445 Welcome! Today, Sara Lynn Brennan joins us on the show. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Eighteen months ago, Sara contacted LuAnn, telling her that she wanted to go to High Point Market, but she wasn't sure what to do or where to go. So LuAnn arranged to meet her there, and Sara spent two days with LuAnn and Sara Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, going from event to event, hanging out, talking, and allowing Sara to get to know some significant and influential people in the design industry. Since then, Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Listen in today, to find out what Sara has to share.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.  In today's episode, Sara talks to us about the extra layer that she's added to her design business, and she explains how she's put the lessons that she's learned from the guests on the podcast into action. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • How MyDoma Studio inspired Sara to create packages.
  • Sara shares a mind-blowing story about selling packages.
  • Why you really need to go and look at Sara's website.
  • Sara describes her really smooth process.
  • Getting clear about the steps that are involved in any process.
  • Coming up with a flat-rate fee.
  • The great reward of instant gratification.
  • Sara describes her consultation process.
  • The way that Sara personalizes her packages.
  • The discovery call is a very important part of the process.
  • Creating an approachable package to reach more people.
  • Coming up with a detailed DIY package.
  • A package called 'DIY with an option to buy'.
  • Sara talks about how she presents her e-design package.
  • Creating these packages been a labor of love for Sara.

Bio:

Sara Lynn Brennan is an award-winning Entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina who specializes in Transitional Design. She and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.

Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Sara’s confident, unique and fearless approach to business and design make her an inspiration to those who work with and around her.

Sara is known for her recognizable “Romantic Transitional” design aesthetic, but her award-winning design team is not just about creating pretty spaces. It is Sara’s mission to educate and expose clients to the beauty and functionality of transitional design. She and her team pride themselves on creating practical, beautiful, and timeless homes that families can really LIVE in for years to come.

Links:

Website: Sara Lynn Brennan

Design Packages and Free E-Book: Sara Brennan

Blog Post: Luann Nigara Baby Designer

IG: @saralynnbrennan

FB: Sara Brennan

Soft Design Lab HPMKT Experience

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Wendy Woloshchuk #316

Mr. Inkredible #417

Kimberly Kay #234

Kelsey Grose #167

Megan Molten #455

Darla Powell #203 and #330

Deb Barrett #53

Tobi Fairley (1st one)

Lori Paranjape #34

Tori Alexander #445

]]> 4270 no 462: Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/462-window-treatment-friday-window-treatment-business-models-part-1 Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday, with LuAnn and her friend and co-host, Vita. Since starting the WTF series, they have been getting lots of emails from designers, asking questions related to their businesses. Finding the best business model for window treatment services was at the top of the list, so in today's episode, we will be outlining the framework for the 'Do It Yourself Model'. In this model, the designer takes all the risk and the responsibility- but gets all the money. In the following episodes, we will share different business models, so that you can choose the one that's the best fit for you. Today's show is an important one, so tune in now, to find out more! Vita is a class-act lady! She's the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., which is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments in the Philadelphia Metro area. Vita has been taking the lead in responding to all the emails and having the conversations with you, the listeners, about the things that really matter the most to you. After getting all your feedback to the first two episodes in this series, it made a lot of sense to address some of the more pressing topics that are on your minds. Listen in today, to find out what Vita and LuAnn have to say about finding the best business model for your window treatment services. Show Highlights: On September 23rd, the Lunch and Learn events will be kicking off once again for the season. LuAnn explains what the exciting first event, called Showroom Showdown, will be all about. Helping you to find the best business model to pursue. What the 'Do It Yourself' Model' looks like, and how it works. You will need to learn how to measure. LuAnn suggests finding information from the WCAA about certification courses in window treatments. Coming up with what the window treatment is, and learning to fill out the work and the production orders, with all the specifics. As a designer, you need to have a vision and an understanding of the practical, functional needs. Your lingo has to be very specific when communicating with the workroom. You will have to keep track of the work in progress, and you will have to follow it up. Different workrooms have different cultures. Selecting the appropriate fabrics for the treatment you've selected. Developing good relationships with the workroom. Next week we will be discussing the business model where you work with a window treatment specialist, or a project management company. Announcements: On September 23rd, the Window Works showroom, in Livingstone, New Jersey is re-igniting and kicking off the Lunch and Learn events for the season. The first Lunch and Learn event for the season is called Showroom Showdown. Reminder: LuAnn and Vita will be presenting Demystifying Window Treatments For Interior Designers, at The Design Trade Resources Showroom, in Devon, Pennsylvania, on September 24th at 12 pm. This event is free and it is sponsored by Stout Fabrics. RSVP at events@designtraderesources.com. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc  To learn more about working with Window Works: windowworks-nj.com  To RSVP for the Window Works Showroom Showdown To learn more about WTF on A Well-Designed Business®️: Luann Nigara To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to events@designertraderesources.com To learn more about the Interior Design Society To learn more about Stout: Stout.com Fri, 06 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 full 462 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday, with LuAnn and her friend and co-host, Vita. Since starting the WTF series, they have been getting lots of emails from designers, asking questions related to their businesses. Finding the best... Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday, with LuAnn and her friend and co-host, Vita. Since starting the WTF series, they have been getting lots of emails from designers, asking questions related to their businesses. Finding the best business model for window treatment services was at the top of the list, so in today's episode, we will be outlining the framework for the 'Do It Yourself Model'. In this model, the designer takes all the risk and the responsibility- but gets all the money. In the following episodes, we will share different business models, so that you can choose the one that's the best fit for you. Today's show is an important one, so tune in now, to find out more! Vita is a class-act lady! She's the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., which is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments in the Philadelphia Metro area. Vita has been taking the lead in responding to all the emails and having the conversations with you, the listeners, about the things that really matter the most to you. After getting all your feedback to the first two episodes in this series, it made a lot of sense to address some of the more pressing topics that are on your minds. Listen in today, to find out what Vita and LuAnn have to say about finding the best business model for your window treatment services. Show Highlights: On September 23rd, the Lunch and Learn events will be kicking off once again for the season. LuAnn explains what the exciting first event, called Showroom Showdown, will be all about. Helping you to find the best business model to pursue. What the 'Do It Yourself' Model' looks like, and how it works. You will need to learn how to measure. LuAnn suggests finding information from the WCAA about certification courses in window treatments. Coming up with what the window treatment is, and learning to fill out the work and the production orders, with all the specifics. As a designer, you need to have a vision and an understanding of the practical, functional needs. Your lingo has to be very specific when communicating with the workroom. You will have to keep track of the work in progress, and you will have to follow it up. Different workrooms have different cultures. Selecting the appropriate fabrics for the treatment you've selected. Developing good relationships with the workroom. Next week we will be discussing the business model where you work with a window treatment specialist, or a project management company. Announcements: On September 23rd, the Window Works showroom, in Livingstone, New Jersey is re-igniting and kicking off the Lunch and Learn events for the season. The first Lunch and Learn event for the season is called Showroom Showdown. Reminder: LuAnn and Vita will be presenting Demystifying Window Treatments For Interior Designers, at The Design Trade Resources Showroom, in Devon, Pennsylvania, on September 24th at 12 pm. This event is free and it is sponsored by Stout Fabrics. RSVP at events@designtraderesources.com. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc  To learn more about working with Window Works: windowworks-nj.com  To RSVP for the Window Works Showroom Showdown To learn more about WTF on A Well-Designed Business®️: Luann Nigara To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to events@designertraderesources.com To learn more about the Interior Design Society To learn more about Stout: Stout.com Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday, with LuAnn and her friend and co-host, Vita. Since starting the WTF series, they have been getting lots of emails from designers, asking questions related to their businesses. Finding the best business model for window treatment services was at the top of the list, so in today's episode, we will be outlining the framework for the 'Do It Yourself Model'. In this model, the designer takes all the risk and the responsibility- but gets all the money. In the following episodes, we will share different business models, so that you can choose the one that's the best fit for you. Today's show is an important one, so tune in now, to find out more!

Vita is a class-act lady! She's the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., which is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments in the Philadelphia Metro area. Vita has been taking the lead in responding to all the emails and having the conversations with you, the listeners, about the things that really matter the most to you. After getting all your feedback to the first two episodes in this series, it made a lot of sense to address some of the more pressing topics that are on your minds. Listen in today, to find out what Vita and LuAnn have to say about finding the best business model for your window treatment services.

Show Highlights:

  • On September 23rd, the Lunch and Learn events will be kicking off once again for the season. LuAnn explains what the exciting first event, called Showroom Showdown, will be all about.
  • Helping you to find the best business model to pursue.
  • What the 'Do It Yourself' Model' looks like, and how it works.
  • You will need to learn how to measure. LuAnn suggests finding information from the WCAA about certification courses in window treatments.
  • Coming up with what the window treatment is, and learning to fill out the work and the production orders, with all the specifics.
  • As a designer, you need to have a vision and an understanding of the practical, functional needs.
  • Your lingo has to be very specific when communicating with the workroom.
  • You will have to keep track of the work in progress, and you will have to follow it up.
  • Different workrooms have different cultures.
  • Selecting the appropriate fabrics for the treatment you've selected.
  • Developing good relationships with the workroom.
  • Next week we will be discussing the business model where you work with a window treatment specialist, or a project management company.

Announcements:

On September 23rd, the Window Works showroom, in Livingstone, New Jersey is re-igniting and kicking off the Lunch and Learn events for the season. The first Lunch and Learn event for the season is called Showroom Showdown.

Reminder:

LuAnn and Vita will be presenting Demystifying Window Treatments For Interior Designers, at The Design Trade Resources Showroom, in Devon, Pennsylvania, on September 24th at 12 pm. This event is free and it is sponsored by Stout Fabrics. RSVP at events@designtraderesources.com.

Links:

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc 

To learn more about working with Window Works: windowworks-nj.com 

To RSVP for the Window Works Showroom Showdown

To learn more about WTF on A Well-Designed Business®️: Luann Nigara

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

To learn about Exciting Windows

To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to events@designertraderesources.com

To learn more about the Interior Design Society

To learn more about Stout: Stout.com

]]> 4144 no 461: Design Biz Live: 5 Fatal Errors in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/461-design-biz-live-5-fatal-errors-in-your-interior-design-business Welcome to another episode of our Design Biz Live series with Corey Klassen and Judith Neary! Today, Corey and Judith will be discussing five fatal errors that people tend to make in their businesses. Judith and Corey run their own design firms and they have both had years of experience in the design industry, so they know what it takes to create a successful business, and they understand what you need to do to avoid the pitfalls. Listen in today, to get their expert advice. Corey is the owner of Corey Klassen Interior design, based in Vancouver. He provides professional interior design services for residential and commercial interior design projects while specializing in high-end kitchen and bath projects. Judith owns Roadside Attraction Design Studio, based in Vashon Island, Washington. She provides professional design services for kitchens, baths, and other fun living spaces. Tune in now, to find out how to avoid making these five fatal errors in your interior design business. Show Highlights: Judith talks about making the first fatal error- basing business models on demographics. Your profit margin comes from how you do your business. It's all about product, people, and place. The peril of making a value call, or a judgment about someone, without first engaging with them. Lead from selling in alignment with your business goals. Being clear with your clients about what you will do and what you will not do. Finding the right clients based on a psychographic rather than on a demographic. Sometimes it's okay to do things for the greater good even though you're not being paid for it. Being clear in your communication will be your biggest asset. The difference between a customer and a client. It's not about what you like. It's about what your client likes. A true design professional will recommend rather than offer their advice or opinion. You need to know your capacity and your capability. Internalizing your external values with a code of ethics for yourself, for your contractors, and your clients. Links: Goodies Link: Luann Nigara Corey's Website: Corey Klassen Judith's Website: Road Side Attraction Studio Tue, 03 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Design Biz Live: 5 Fatal Errors in Your Interior Design Business full 461 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of our Design Biz Live series with Corey Klassen and Judith Neary! Today, Corey and Judith will be discussing five fatal errors that people tend to make in their businesses. Judith and Corey run their own design firms and... Welcome to another episode of our Design Biz Live series with Corey Klassen and Judith Neary! Today, Corey and Judith will be discussing five fatal errors that people tend to make in their businesses. Judith and Corey run their own design firms and they have both had years of experience in the design industry, so they know what it takes to create a successful business, and they understand what you need to do to avoid the pitfalls. Listen in today, to get their expert advice. Corey is the owner of Corey Klassen Interior design, based in Vancouver. He provides professional interior design services for residential and commercial interior design projects while specializing in high-end kitchen and bath projects. Judith owns Roadside Attraction Design Studio, based in Vashon Island, Washington. She provides professional design services for kitchens, baths, and other fun living spaces. Tune in now, to find out how to avoid making these five fatal errors in your interior design business. Show Highlights: Judith talks about making the first fatal error- basing business models on demographics. Your profit margin comes from how you do your business. It's all about product, people, and place. The peril of making a value call, or a judgment about someone, without first engaging with them. Lead from selling in alignment with your business goals. Being clear with your clients about what you will do and what you will not do. Finding the right clients based on a psychographic rather than on a demographic. Sometimes it's okay to do things for the greater good even though you're not being paid for it. Being clear in your communication will be your biggest asset. The difference between a customer and a client. It's not about what you like. It's about what your client likes. A true design professional will recommend rather than offer their advice or opinion. You need to know your capacity and your capability. Internalizing your external values with a code of ethics for yourself, for your contractors, and your clients. Links: Goodies Link: Luann Nigara Corey's Website: Corey Klassen Judith's Website: Road Side Attraction Studio Welcome to another episode of our Design Biz Live series with Corey Klassen and Judith Neary! Today, Corey and Judith will be discussing five fatal errors that people tend to make in their businesses. Judith and Corey run their own design firms and they have both had years of experience in the design industry, so they know what it takes to create a successful business, and they understand what you need to do to avoid the pitfalls. Listen in today, to get their expert advice.

Corey is the owner of Corey Klassen Interior design, based in Vancouver. He provides professional interior design services for residential and commercial interior design projects while specializing in high-end kitchen and bath projects. Judith owns Roadside Attraction Design Studio, based in Vashon Island, Washington. She provides professional design services for kitchens, baths, and other fun living spaces. Tune in now, to find out how to avoid making these five fatal errors in your interior design business.

Show Highlights:

  • Judith talks about making the first fatal error- basing business models on demographics.
  • Your profit margin comes from how you do your business.
  • It's all about product, people, and place.
  • The peril of making a value call, or a judgment about someone, without first engaging with them.
  • Lead from selling in alignment with your business goals.
  • Being clear with your clients about what you will do and what you will not do.
  • Finding the right clients based on a psychographic rather than on a demographic.
  • Sometimes it's okay to do things for the greater good even though you're not being paid for it.
  • Being clear in your communication will be your biggest asset.
  • The difference between a customer and a client.
  • It's not about what you like. It's about what your client likes.
  • A true design professional will recommend rather than offer their advice or opinion.
  • You need to know your capacity and your capability.
  • Internalizing your external values with a code of ethics for yourself, for your contractors, and your clients.

Links:

Goodies Link: Luann Nigara

Corey's Website: Corey Klassen

Judith's Website: Road Side Attraction Studio

]]> 3595 no 460: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: How to Strengthen and Re-Kindle Client Relationships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/460-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-how-to-strengthen-and-re-kindle-client-relationships Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Fred Berns is back on the show with us, and if you're a regular listener, you will know that he's one of our most repeated guests. Fred is a really powerful copywriter and he is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's most recent book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. The topic for today's episode is Get Ready To Go Steady, so today, Fred will be explaining how to turn single sales into long-term sales. He really has a passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table, so listen in, to find out what he has to share! Fred Berns is a coach and a copywriter, and he brings more than twenty-five years of experience to the table, helping designers from Dallas to Dubai create their online profiles, their websites, and social media copy for their blogs, their marketing forms, and whatever else they may require. Fred offers a wide selection of coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio-Briefing, and his Website Onceover. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Fred talks about his passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table. It costs five times more to attract a new customer than it does to retain an existing one. It's your fault if your client does not know all that you can do. It's so much nicer to work with people you've worked with before. Learning to develop partnerships with your clients. Fred shares a great marketing strategy. Expanding your marketing network. Sending out a "Guess what" email to your clients. Planting the seeds of long-term relationships with your clients. Dealing with conflict in the best possible way. It's not about the quantity of your client relationships. It's about the quality of your relationships. Fred's Bio: Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA. Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million-dollar marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus. Links: Fred's Website: Interior Design Business If you'd like help with your personal promotion profile, go to Bio Briefing A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Sales for Creatives Article Trade Program: Well Designed Article Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Fred's Previous Episodes on A Well-Designed Business ®: #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393 Lee Cockerell #222   Fri, 30 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: How to Strengthen and Re-Kindle Client Relationships full 460 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Fred Berns is back on the show with us, and if you're a regular listener, you will know that he's one of our most repeated guests. Fred is a really powerful copywriter and he is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's most... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Fred Berns is back on the show with us, and if you're a regular listener, you will know that he's one of our most repeated guests. Fred is a really powerful copywriter and he is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's most recent book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. The topic for today's episode is Get Ready To Go Steady, so today, Fred will be explaining how to turn single sales into long-term sales. He really has a passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table, so listen in, to find out what he has to share! Fred Berns is a coach and a copywriter, and he brings more than twenty-five years of experience to the table, helping designers from Dallas to Dubai create their online profiles, their websites, and social media copy for their blogs, their marketing forms, and whatever else they may require. Fred offers a wide selection of coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio-Briefing, and his Website Onceover. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Fred talks about his passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table. It costs five times more to attract a new customer than it does to retain an existing one. It's your fault if your client does not know all that you can do. It's so much nicer to work with people you've worked with before. Learning to develop partnerships with your clients. Fred shares a great marketing strategy. Expanding your marketing network. Sending out a "Guess what" email to your clients. Planting the seeds of long-term relationships with your clients. Dealing with conflict in the best possible way. It's not about the quantity of your client relationships. It's about the quality of your relationships. Fred's Bio: Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA. Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million-dollar marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus. Links: Fred's Website: Interior Design Business If you'd like help with your personal promotion profile, go to Bio Briefing A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Sales for Creatives Article Trade Program: Well Designed Article Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Fred's Previous Episodes on A Well-Designed Business ®: #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393 Lee Cockerell #222   Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Fred Berns is back on the show with us, and if you're a regular listener, you will know that he's one of our most repeated guests. Fred is a really powerful copywriter and he is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's most recent book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. The topic for today's episode is Get Ready To Go Steady, so today, Fred will be explaining how to turn single sales into long-term sales. He really has a passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table, so listen in, to find out what he has to share!

Fred Berns is a coach and a copywriter, and he brings more than twenty-five years of experience to the table, helping designers from Dallas to Dubai create their online profiles, their websites, and social media copy for their blogs, their marketing forms, and whatever else they may require. Fred offers a wide selection of coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio-Briefing, and his Website Onceover. Tune in now, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Fred talks about his passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table.
  • It costs five times more to attract a new customer than it does to retain an existing one.
  • It's your fault if your client does not know all that you can do.
  • It's so much nicer to work with people you've worked with before.
  • Learning to develop partnerships with your clients.
  • Fred shares a great marketing strategy.
  • Expanding your marketing network.
  • Sending out a "Guess what" email to your clients.
  • Planting the seeds of long-term relationships with your clients.
  • Dealing with conflict in the best possible way.
  • It's not about the quantity of your client relationships. It's about the quality of your relationships.

Fred's Bio:

Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide.

Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover.

As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals.

Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively.

He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA.

Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts.

His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million-dollar marketing on a shoestring budget.

Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus.

Links:

Fred's Website: Interior Design Business

If you'd like help with your personal promotion profile, go to Bio Briefing

A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts

Sales for Creatives

Article Trade Program: Well Designed Article

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Fred's Previous Episodes on A Well-Designed Business ®:

#22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393

Lee Cockerell #222

 

]]> 2956 no 459: Dennis Scully: Business of Home Podcast Host http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/459-dennis-scully-business-of-home-podcast-host Welcome! Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Dennis Scully, the host of the Business of Home Podcast where each week, he interviews interior design industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, to explore the changes and the challenges faced by the design community. In today's episode, Dennis and LuAnn talk tech. They discuss the way that technology is changing how business is done, and the adaptions that we have to consider making in our businesses. We all need to grow, innovate, and figure out new ways to make money and be profitable, so listen in today, to find out what Dennis has to share about the shifts that are happening within our industry. The Business of Home Podcast is a production of Business of Home which, for the past ten years, has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals, including residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. With a career in marketing, advertising, and business development in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Dennis has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. Tune in now, to find out how to lean into the changes that are coming. Show Highlights: Technology is changing everything! The design industry is adjusting to what today's customer is looking for. Dennis shares one of his core beliefs. People are more excited about design right now than ever before. You need to think about what you're bringing to your clients that they cannot get online. Designers today have to work even harder at educating their would-be clients about their talents and value. The undeniable issue around technology is the impact that it's going to have on all our lives and all of our businesses. So we need to figure out how we are going to deal with it. The incredible new workspace that Kravet has created to support the way that designers are now doing their business. Learning to run with the way that technology is going. It's worth experimenting with new and improved ways of doing things. It's challenging today to know where and how to put your message forward. Material Bank is a great example of a company that has taken the initiative to change with the times. Designers have not yet made the complete shift into the world of e-commerce. Designers need to understand that although there are pros and cons to technology, it is here, and it's going to keep coming our way with more innovations, at an ever-increasing pace. You, as a designer, need to know who you are, and you need to be confident with your skills and keep on honing them. Learning to lean into the changes that are coming. Things are shifting so quickly that if you don't keep up with the change you will end up going backward. Bio: Dennis Scully is the host of the weekly BOH podcast, where he explores the changes and challenges facing the interior design community through interviews with industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. He is also the vice president of sales and marketing at luxury textiles company Castel. With a marketing, advertising, and business development career in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Scully has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. After wrapping up his tenure as the President of the luxury custom upholstery company Avery Boardman, Dennis returned to Business of Home, where he had previously served as the V.P. of Business Development.  This time it was to launch a new column for the site, Market Report, based on Scully’s financial insights, as well as a business-focused podcast, Business of Home. Dennis began his career in the homeworld running a small retail advertising agency that created branding and marketing campaigns for many of New York’s great furniture retailers of the day.  As the grandson of the founders of Scully & Scully on Park Avenue, New York retail was a world he knew well. He later joined the luxury kitchen and bath company Waterworks, ultimately serving as the New York Director of Sales and Marketing.  From there he landed a job at Condé Nast, joining the launch team of Domino Magazine as its Home Furnishing Director. Dennis worked with the luxury textile brand Twill as Sales and Marketing Director, and he later worked with the Chicago-based interior designer who founded Twill, Suzanne Lovell. He joined Castel in May of 2018 to help them launch their first-ever flagship showroom in New York City’s famed D&D Building. Business of Home: For 10 years, Business of Home has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals—residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. BOH has built a loyal national and international subscriber base of more than 100,000 professionals, for whom it is the go-to source for top-notch industry reporting, trade show guides, job openings, event listings, expert sourcing, educational seminars. Our tagline “Home is Everywhere” emphasizes that home, the fastest-growing category in the economy, encompasses all of the spaces—private and public—that surround us.-- Links: Event: Future Of Home Website: Business Of Home Instagram: @dennisscully Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Jesse Lazarus #446 Jean Brownhill # 422 Anna Brockway #79, #186 Nicole Gibbons # 411 Tue, 27 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Dennis Scully: Business of Home Podcast Host full 459 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Dennis Scully, the host of the Business of Home Podcast where each week, he interviews interior design industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, to explore the changes and the... Welcome! Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Dennis Scully, the host of the Business of Home Podcast where each week, he interviews interior design industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, to explore the changes and the challenges faced by the design community. In today's episode, Dennis and LuAnn talk tech. They discuss the way that technology is changing how business is done, and the adaptions that we have to consider making in our businesses. We all need to grow, innovate, and figure out new ways to make money and be profitable, so listen in today, to find out what Dennis has to share about the shifts that are happening within our industry. The Business of Home Podcast is a production of Business of Home which, for the past ten years, has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals, including residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. With a career in marketing, advertising, and business development in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Dennis has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. Tune in now, to find out how to lean into the changes that are coming. Show Highlights: Technology is changing everything! The design industry is adjusting to what today's customer is looking for. Dennis shares one of his core beliefs. People are more excited about design right now than ever before. You need to think about what you're bringing to your clients that they cannot get online. Designers today have to work even harder at educating their would-be clients about their talents and value. The undeniable issue around technology is the impact that it's going to have on all our lives and all of our businesses. So we need to figure out how we are going to deal with it. The incredible new workspace that Kravet has created to support the way that designers are now doing their business. Learning to run with the way that technology is going. It's worth experimenting with new and improved ways of doing things. It's challenging today to know where and how to put your message forward. Material Bank is a great example of a company that has taken the initiative to change with the times. Designers have not yet made the complete shift into the world of e-commerce. Designers need to understand that although there are pros and cons to technology, it is here, and it's going to keep coming our way with more innovations, at an ever-increasing pace. You, as a designer, need to know who you are, and you need to be confident with your skills and keep on honing them. Learning to lean into the changes that are coming. Things are shifting so quickly that if you don't keep up with the change you will end up going backward. Bio: Dennis Scully is the host of the weekly BOH podcast, where he explores the changes and challenges facing the interior design community through interviews with industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. He is also the vice president of sales and marketing at luxury textiles company Castel. With a marketing, advertising, and business development career in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Scully has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. After wrapping up his tenure as the President of the luxury custom upholstery company Avery Boardman, Dennis returned to Business of Home, where he had previously served as the V.P. of Business Development.  This time it was to launch a new column for the site, Market Report, based on Scully’s financial insights, as well as a business-focused podcast, Business of Home. Dennis began his career in the homeworld running a small retail advertising agency that created branding and marketing campaigns for many of New York’s great furniture retailers of the day.  As the grandson of the founders of Scully & Scully on Park Avenue, New York retail was a world he knew well. He later joined the luxury kitchen and bath company Waterworks, ultimately serving as the New York Director of Sales and Marketing.  From there he landed a job at Condé Nast, joining the launch team of Domino Magazine as its Home Furnishing Director. Dennis worked with the luxury textile brand Twill as Sales and Marketing Director, and he later worked with the Chicago-based interior designer who founded Twill, Suzanne Lovell. He joined Castel in May of 2018 to help them launch their first-ever flagship showroom in New York City’s famed D&D Building. Business of Home: For 10 years, Business of Home has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals—residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. BOH has built a loyal national and international subscriber base of more than 100,000 professionals, for whom it is the go-to source for top-notch industry reporting, trade show guides, job openings, event listings, expert sourcing, educational seminars. Our tagline “Home is Everywhere” emphasizes that home, the fastest-growing category in the economy, encompasses all of the spaces—private and public—that surround us.-- Links: Event: Future Of Home Website: Business Of Home Instagram: @dennisscully Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Jesse Lazarus #446 Jean Brownhill # 422 Anna Brockway #79, #186 Nicole Gibbons # 411 Welcome! Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Dennis Scully, the host of the Business of Home Podcast where each week, he interviews interior design industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, to explore the changes and the challenges faced by the design community. In today's episode, Dennis and LuAnn talk tech. They discuss the way that technology is changing how business is done, and the adaptions that we have to consider making in our businesses. We all need to grow, innovate, and figure out new ways to make money and be profitable, so listen in today, to find out what Dennis has to share about the shifts that are happening within our industry.

The Business of Home Podcast is a production of Business of Home which, for the past ten years, has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals, including residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. With a career in marketing, advertising, and business development in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Dennis has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. Tune in now, to find out how to lean into the changes that are coming.

Show Highlights:

  • Technology is changing everything!
  • The design industry is adjusting to what today's customer is looking for.
  • Dennis shares one of his core beliefs.
  • People are more excited about design right now than ever before.
  • You need to think about what you're bringing to your clients that they cannot get online.
  • Designers today have to work even harder at educating their would-be clients about their talents and value.
  • The undeniable issue around technology is the impact that it's going to have on all our lives and all of our businesses. So we need to figure out how we are going to deal with it.
  • The incredible new workspace that Kravet has created to support the way that designers are now doing their business.
  • Learning to run with the way that technology is going.
  • It's worth experimenting with new and improved ways of doing things.
  • It's challenging today to know where and how to put your message forward.
  • Material Bank is a great example of a company that has taken the initiative to change with the times.
  • Designers have not yet made the complete shift into the world of e-commerce.
  • Designers need to understand that although there are pros and cons to technology, it is here, and it's going to keep coming our way with more innovations, at an ever-increasing pace.
  • You, as a designer, need to know who you are, and you need to be confident with your skills and keep on honing them.
  • Learning to lean into the changes that are coming.
  • Things are shifting so quickly that if you don't keep up with the change you will end up going backward.

Bio:

Dennis Scully is the host of the weekly BOH podcast, where he explores the changes and challenges facing the interior design community through interviews with industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. He is also the vice president of sales and marketing at luxury textiles company Castel.

With a marketing, advertising, and business development career in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Scully has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands.

After wrapping up his tenure as the President of the luxury custom upholstery company Avery Boardman, Dennis returned to Business of Home, where he had previously served as the V.P. of Business Development.  This time it was to launch a new column for the site, Market Report, based on Scully’s financial insights, as well as a business-focused podcast, Business of Home.

Dennis began his career in the homeworld running a small retail advertising agency that created branding and marketing campaigns for many of New York’s great furniture retailers of the day.  As the grandson of the founders of Scully & Scully on Park Avenue, New York retail was a world he knew well.

He later joined the luxury kitchen and bath company Waterworks, ultimately serving as the New York Director of Sales and Marketing.  From there he landed a job at Condé Nast, joining the launch team of Domino Magazine as its Home Furnishing Director.

Dennis worked with the luxury textile brand Twill as Sales and Marketing Director, and he later worked with the Chicago-based interior designer who founded Twill, Suzanne Lovell.

He joined Castel in May of 2018 to help them launch their first-ever flagship showroom in New York City’s famed D&D Building.

Business of Home:

For 10 years, Business of Home has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals—residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs.

BOH has built a loyal national and international subscriber base of more than 100,000 professionals, for whom it is the go-to source for top-notch industry reporting, trade show guides, job openings, event listings, expert sourcing, educational seminars.

Our tagline “Home is Everywhere” emphasizes that home, the fastest-growing category in the economy, encompasses all of the spaces—private and public—that surround us.--

Links:

Event: Future Of Home

Website: Business Of Home

Instagram: @dennisscully

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Jesse Lazarus #446

Jean Brownhill # 422

Anna Brockway #79, #186

Nicole Gibbons # 411

]]> 4044 no 458: Power Talk Friday - Savour Partnership: Designing Wealth Into Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/458-savour-partnership-designing-wealth-into-your-business Welcome to today's episode! We have a very special show for you, sponsored by Savour Partnership, which is owned by principals Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson. Leslie and Sam both appeared previously in episode #209 when they first launched their company and they spoke to us about the importance of email marketing. Today, Leslie joins us. She is a visionary who has had a significant impact on our industry and she really knows how to help designers pivot and then come out of the change far stronger than ever before. Currently, Leslie and Sam have a new mission- to create awareness around the changes that are happening within the design industry and to help designers thrive in this new environment. Whether you are an interior designer, a retailer, or a brand, Leslie and Sam have the answers to successfully navigating the changes that are coming. Tune in today, to find out what Leslie has to share. Leslie's strengths are in strategic planning, online copyrighting, social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising.  Sam's strengths lie in graphic design, video production, and e-commerce photography. Listen in today, to find out about this dynamic partnership, which is fully committed to helping you understand that you need to build and design wealth right into your interior design business. Show Highlights: Taking e-commerce matters into your own hands by designing wealth into your website. There are ways to continue making money selling products one-on-one to clients. Leslie invites you to join her Design Wealth Facebook group. Design Wealth Leslie explains how to design wealth into your website. Leslie talks about how you can thrive with the changes. Building your business from the foundation. Why you need to have digital products available on your website. Creating your own online magazine is a great way to make money. Leslie talks about her business partner, Sam, who is a master graphic designer. The products that Leslie and Sam provide for their clients. To see the fabulous mini-magazine that Leslie and Sam created for Window Works, go to Window Works. Leslie explains how her Email Opt-in Mini Magazine will help you make money. Making a little extra with affiliate marketing. About Leslie's special offer for her very comprehensive online course called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income. Info on Savour: Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, Savour Partnership's principals, came together to form their business collaboration based on their complementary strengths: Sam's in graphic design, video production and e-commerce photography and Leslie's in strategic planning, online copywriting, and social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising. They are convinced that beautiful design in online visual communications is a key competitive advantage and helps businesses build a valuable business asset with long term financial value. Savour Partnership produces magazine quality, custom-designed, downloadable e-publications, each of which can include ( but doesn't have to include) affiliate marketing links to help businesses generate revenue 24/7. Our publications help our clients: 1. Elevate the visual experience of their brand, online, to help them gain a competitive advantage. 2. Build their email lists. 3. Build a sellable business asset. As income is generated 24/7  via our beautifully presented affiliate product links, a recurring revenue stream is created. As this revenue stream increases over time, it leads to a financially valuable, sellable business asset.  Our service packages include options for: Affiliate marketing set up and training. Uniquely branded 3-5 page magazines, (scroll to Package 2 and click to see our brochure) to use as free email opt-ins to help build your company's email list. Completely custom branded downloadable catalogs, e-books, online magazines, look books, portfolios, of any size. These can include video, custom animations, etc. ( see an example of a custom magazine Sam designed,  here. )  Custom e-newsletters.  Custom media kits. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Megan Molten #455 Brea Hammil Carla Aston #242 Leslie Price #413 Links: Website: Savour Partnership Instagram: Savour Partnership Facebook: Savour Partnership Groups: Design Wealth Price Style and Design Leslie's email - leslie@savourpartnership.com Leslie's very comprehensive online course, called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income, is available to you for only $297 if you go to Design Wealth and use the code LUANN. (The normal price is $497) Fri, 23 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday - Savour Partnership: Designing Wealth Into Your Business full 458 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have a very special show for you, sponsored by Savour Partnership, which is owned by principals Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson. Leslie and Sam both appeared previously in episode #209 when they first launched their... Welcome to today's episode! We have a very special show for you, sponsored by Savour Partnership, which is owned by principals Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson. Leslie and Sam both appeared previously in episode #209 when they first launched their company and they spoke to us about the importance of email marketing. Today, Leslie joins us. She is a visionary who has had a significant impact on our industry and she really knows how to help designers pivot and then come out of the change far stronger than ever before. Currently, Leslie and Sam have a new mission- to create awareness around the changes that are happening within the design industry and to help designers thrive in this new environment. Whether you are an interior designer, a retailer, or a brand, Leslie and Sam have the answers to successfully navigating the changes that are coming. Tune in today, to find out what Leslie has to share. Leslie's strengths are in strategic planning, online copyrighting, social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising.  Sam's strengths lie in graphic design, video production, and e-commerce photography. Listen in today, to find out about this dynamic partnership, which is fully committed to helping you understand that you need to build and design wealth right into your interior design business. Show Highlights: Taking e-commerce matters into your own hands by designing wealth into your website. There are ways to continue making money selling products one-on-one to clients. Leslie invites you to join her Design Wealth Facebook group. Design Wealth Leslie explains how to design wealth into your website. Leslie talks about how you can thrive with the changes. Building your business from the foundation. Why you need to have digital products available on your website. Creating your own online magazine is a great way to make money. Leslie talks about her business partner, Sam, who is a master graphic designer. The products that Leslie and Sam provide for their clients. To see the fabulous mini-magazine that Leslie and Sam created for Window Works, go to Window Works. Leslie explains how her Email Opt-in Mini Magazine will help you make money. Making a little extra with affiliate marketing. About Leslie's special offer for her very comprehensive online course called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income. Info on Savour: Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, Savour Partnership's principals, came together to form their business collaboration based on their complementary strengths: Sam's in graphic design, video production and e-commerce photography and Leslie's in strategic planning, online copywriting, and social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising. They are convinced that beautiful design in online visual communications is a key competitive advantage and helps businesses build a valuable business asset with long term financial value. Savour Partnership produces magazine quality, custom-designed, downloadable e-publications, each of which can include ( but doesn't have to include) affiliate marketing links to help businesses generate revenue 24/7. Our publications help our clients: 1. Elevate the visual experience of their brand, online, to help them gain a competitive advantage. 2. Build their email lists. 3. Build a sellable business asset. As income is generated 24/7  via our beautifully presented affiliate product links, a recurring revenue stream is created. As this revenue stream increases over time, it leads to a financially valuable, sellable business asset.  Our service packages include options for: Affiliate marketing set up and training. Uniquely branded 3-5 page magazines, (scroll to Package 2 and click to see our brochure) to use as free email opt-ins to help build your company's email list. Completely custom branded downloadable catalogs, e-books, online magazines, look books, portfolios, of any size. These can include video, custom animations, etc. ( see an example of a custom magazine Sam designed,  here. )  Custom e-newsletters.  Custom media kits. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Megan Molten #455 Brea Hammil Carla Aston #242 Leslie Price #413 Links: Website: Savour Partnership Instagram: Savour Partnership Facebook: Savour Partnership Groups: Design Wealth Price Style and Design Leslie's email - leslie@savourpartnership.com Leslie's very comprehensive online course, called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income, is available to you for only $297 if you go to Design Wealth and use the code LUANN. (The normal price is $497) Welcome to today's episode! We have a very special show for you, sponsored by Savour Partnership, which is owned by principals Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson. Leslie and Sam both appeared previously in episode #209 when they first launched their company and they spoke to us about the importance of email marketing. Today, Leslie joins us. She is a visionary who has had a significant impact on our industry and she really knows how to help designers pivot and then come out of the change far stronger than ever before. Currently, Leslie and Sam have a new mission- to create awareness around the changes that are happening within the design industry and to help designers thrive in this new environment. Whether you are an interior designer, a retailer, or a brand, Leslie and Sam have the answers to successfully navigating the changes that are coming. Tune in today, to find out what Leslie has to share.

Leslie's strengths are in strategic planning, online copyrighting, social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising.  Sam's strengths lie in graphic design, video production, and e-commerce photography. Listen in today, to find out about this dynamic partnership, which is fully committed to helping you understand that you need to build and design wealth right into your interior design business.

Show Highlights:

  • Taking e-commerce matters into your own hands by designing wealth into your website.
  • There are ways to continue making money selling products one-on-one to clients.
  • Leslie invites you to join her Design Wealth Facebook group. Design Wealth
  • Leslie explains how to design wealth into your website.
  • Leslie talks about how you can thrive with the changes.
  • Building your business from the foundation.
  • Why you need to have digital products available on your website.
  • Creating your own online magazine is a great way to make money.
  • Leslie talks about her business partner, Sam, who is a master graphic designer.
  • The products that Leslie and Sam provide for their clients.
  • To see the fabulous mini-magazine that Leslie and Sam created for Window Works, go to Window Works.
  • Leslie explains how her Email Opt-in Mini Magazine will help you make money.
  • Making a little extra with affiliate marketing.
  • About Leslie's special offer for her very comprehensive online course called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income.

Info on Savour:

Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, Savour Partnership's principals, came together to form their business collaboration based on their complementary strengths: Sam's in graphic design, video production and e-commerce photography and Leslie's in strategic planning, online copywriting, and social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising.

They are convinced that beautiful design in online visual communications is a key competitive advantage and helps businesses build a valuable business asset with long term financial value.

Savour Partnership produces magazine quality, custom-designed, downloadable e-publications, each of which can include ( but doesn't have to include) affiliate marketing links to help businesses generate revenue 24/7.

Our publications help our clients: 1. Elevate the visual experience of their brand, online, to help them gain a competitive advantage. 2. Build their email lists. 3. Build a sellable business asset. As income is generated 24/7  via our beautifully presented affiliate product links, a recurring revenue stream is created. As this revenue stream increases over time, it leads to a financially valuable, sellable business asset. 

Our service packages include options for:

Affiliate marketing set up and training.

Uniquely branded 3-5 page magazines, (scroll to Package 2 and click to see our brochure) to use as free email opt-ins to help build your company's email list.

Completely custom branded downloadable catalogs, e-books, online magazines, look books, portfolios, of any size. These can include video, custom animations, etc. ( see an example of a custom magazine Sam designed,  here. )

 Custom e-newsletters.

 Custom media kits.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Megan Molten #455

Brea Hammil

Carla Aston #242

Leslie Price #413

Links:

Website: Savour Partnership

Instagram: Savour Partnership

Facebook: Savour Partnership

Groups: Design Wealth

Price Style and Design

Leslie's email - leslie@savourpartnership.com

Leslie's very comprehensive online course, called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income, is available to you for only $297 if you go to Design Wealth and use the code LUANN. (The normal price is $497)

]]> 4468 no 457: Dane Austin: Confidence & Clarity Come From Experience http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/457-dane-austin-confidence-clarity-come-from-experience Welcome! Today, Dane Austin, of Dane Austin Design, joins us on the show. Dane founded his award-winning, full-service interior design firm, which specializes in luxury residential interiors throughout New England and North America, in 2009. Dane has a signature design process, which he calls the Dane Austin Design. He created this highly-organized process because he truly understands the value in building profit centers around creating packages. This customer-driven plan delivers custom solutions for full-service, turnkey projects and Dane uses the packages feature from Mydoma Studio to explain, quantify, and smoothly sell his services to his clients. Listen in, to hear what Dane has to share on the show today. Dane is the artist, interior design his medium, and the client his muse. Today, we have a conversation with him about finding yourself, both as an individual and as a business person. He talks to us about how he found his Fred Berns 'only', about the significance of the ladybugs on his website, and about finding your voice within your career journey. Dane is a delightful, warm, and generous person, so tune in today, and enjoy this opportunity to get to know him! Show Highlights: It takes time to figure out who you really are. It's important to dress the part. Your attitude is the most crucial thing. A lot goes into making your way to the top in the design industry. The human connection matters the most in the end. Helping each other be better and grow. Dane discusses his approach to his work. Bold and daring use of color really works for Dane. Identifying a thread through all his projects. Marketing yourself in a way that will attract the people you'd really like to be working with. Investing in really good images is very important. Finding the right element to create the wow factor. Delivering beyond the level of the client's imagination. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer - Curio Electro #125 and #317 Nate Berkus - #433  Links: Dane Austin Design Email: Dane Austin Design Facebook: Dane Austin Design Instagram: A Colorfull Life Twitter: Dane Austin Design Ask me anything” coaching Strategy Session Tue, 20 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Dane Austin: Confidence & Clarity Come From Experience full 457 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Dane Austin, of Dane Austin Design, joins us on the show. Dane founded his award-winning, full-service interior design firm, which specializes in luxury residential interiors throughout New England and North America, in 2009. Dane has... Welcome! Today, Dane Austin, of Dane Austin Design, joins us on the show. Dane founded his award-winning, full-service interior design firm, which specializes in luxury residential interiors throughout New England and North America, in 2009. Dane has a signature design process, which he calls the Dane Austin Design. He created this highly-organized process because he truly understands the value in building profit centers around creating packages. This customer-driven plan delivers custom solutions for full-service, turnkey projects and Dane uses the packages feature from Mydoma Studio to explain, quantify, and smoothly sell his services to his clients. Listen in, to hear what Dane has to share on the show today. Dane is the artist, interior design his medium, and the client his muse. Today, we have a conversation with him about finding yourself, both as an individual and as a business person. He talks to us about how he found his Fred Berns 'only', about the significance of the ladybugs on his website, and about finding your voice within your career journey. Dane is a delightful, warm, and generous person, so tune in today, and enjoy this opportunity to get to know him! Show Highlights: It takes time to figure out who you really are. It's important to dress the part. Your attitude is the most crucial thing. A lot goes into making your way to the top in the design industry. The human connection matters the most in the end. Helping each other be better and grow. Dane discusses his approach to his work. Bold and daring use of color really works for Dane. Identifying a thread through all his projects. Marketing yourself in a way that will attract the people you'd really like to be working with. Investing in really good images is very important. Finding the right element to create the wow factor. Delivering beyond the level of the client's imagination. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer - Curio Electro #125 and #317 Nate Berkus - #433  Links: Dane Austin Design Email: Dane Austin Design Facebook: Dane Austin Design Instagram: A Colorfull Life Twitter: Dane Austin Design Ask me anything” coaching Strategy Session Welcome! Today, Dane Austin, of Dane Austin Design, joins us on the show. Dane founded his award-winning, full-service interior design firm, which specializes in luxury residential interiors throughout New England and North America, in 2009.

Dane has a signature design process, which he calls the Dane Austin Design. He created this highly-organized process because he truly understands the value in building profit centers around creating packages. This customer-driven plan delivers custom solutions for full-service, turnkey projects and Dane uses the packages feature from Mydoma Studio to explain, quantify, and smoothly sell his services to his clients. Listen in, to hear what Dane has to share on the show today.

Dane is the artist, interior design his medium, and the client his muse. Today, we have a conversation with him about finding yourself, both as an individual and as a business person. He talks to us about how he found his Fred Berns 'only', about the significance of the ladybugs on his website, and about finding your voice within your career journey. Dane is a delightful, warm, and generous person, so tune in today, and enjoy this opportunity to get to know him!

Show Highlights:

  • It takes time to figure out who you really are.
  • It's important to dress the part.
  • Your attitude is the most crucial thing.
  • A lot goes into making your way to the top in the design industry.
  • The human connection matters the most in the end.
  • Helping each other be better and grow.
  • Dane discusses his approach to his work.
  • Bold and daring use of color really works for Dane.
  • Identifying a thread through all his projects.
  • Marketing yourself in a way that will attract the people you'd really like to be working with.
  • Investing in really good images is very important.
  • Finding the right element to create the wow factor.
  • Delivering beyond the level of the client's imagination.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Nicole Heymer - Curio Electro #125 and #317

Nate Berkus - #433 

Links:

Dane Austin Design

Email: Dane Austin Design

Facebook: Dane Austin Design

Instagram: A Colorfull Life

Twitter: Dane Austin Design

Ask me anything” coaching Strategy Session

]]> 4308 no 456: Window Treatment Friday: Custom Made vs Ready Made Window Treatments http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/456-window-treatment-friday-custom-made-vs-ready-made-window-treatments Welcome to the second episode of Window Treatment Friday! Starting this new series has rekindled a lot of excitement for LuAnn around window treatments! And she and Vita are both very excited to share with you that on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, they will be presenting a Continuing Education Unit, sponsored by Stout, on demystifying window treatments for interior designers. In today's episode, this dynamic duo will be discussing the pros and cons of using custom, versus ready-made window treatments. This show will set the scene for all the following episodes of WTF, so tune in now, to find out more! Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you. Show Highlights: Vita explains the main differences are between custom and ready-made window treatments. Custom is not necessarily the only way to go because different situations call for different things. When you would use ready-made, rather than custom window treatments. The way that Vita supports the designers she works with. When you would need to use custom window treatments. When the budget allows for it, custom will always be the better choice. Leading the conversation with your client to where you want it to go. Why most interior designers would prefer to do only custom window treatments. Some important things designers need to be aware of when they're faced with a situation where they have to use ready-made window treatments. Ready-made drapes often take a lot of work to make them look like the picture on the package. Some ways to improve ready-made drapery. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc   To learn more about working with Window Works: Window Works   To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) WCAA To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to: events@designertraderesources.com Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia_inc LuAnn's website: Luann Nigara LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com The information about the upcoming CEU on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, will be on Luann's website, under 'Events and Coaching'. Fri, 16 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: Custom Made vs Ready Made Window Treatments full 456 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the second episode of Window Treatment Friday! Starting this new series has rekindled a lot of excitement for LuAnn around window treatments! And she and Vita are both very excited to share with you that on the 24th of September, at the... Welcome to the second episode of Window Treatment Friday! Starting this new series has rekindled a lot of excitement for LuAnn around window treatments! And she and Vita are both very excited to share with you that on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, they will be presenting a Continuing Education Unit, sponsored by Stout, on demystifying window treatments for interior designers. In today's episode, this dynamic duo will be discussing the pros and cons of using custom, versus ready-made window treatments. This show will set the scene for all the following episodes of WTF, so tune in now, to find out more! Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you. Show Highlights: Vita explains the main differences are between custom and ready-made window treatments. Custom is not necessarily the only way to go because different situations call for different things. When you would use ready-made, rather than custom window treatments. The way that Vita supports the designers she works with. When you would need to use custom window treatments. When the budget allows for it, custom will always be the better choice. Leading the conversation with your client to where you want it to go. Why most interior designers would prefer to do only custom window treatments. Some important things designers need to be aware of when they're faced with a situation where they have to use ready-made window treatments. Ready-made drapes often take a lot of work to make them look like the picture on the package. Some ways to improve ready-made drapery. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc   To learn more about working with Window Works: Window Works   To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) WCAA To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to: events@designertraderesources.com Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia_inc LuAnn's website: Luann Nigara LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com The information about the upcoming CEU on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, will be on Luann's website, under 'Events and Coaching'. Welcome to the second episode of Window Treatment Friday! Starting this new series has rekindled a lot of excitement for LuAnn around window treatments! And she and Vita are both very excited to share with you that on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, they will be presenting a Continuing Education Unit, sponsored by Stout, on demystifying window treatments for interior designers. In today's episode, this dynamic duo will be discussing the pros and cons of using custom, versus ready-made window treatments. This show will set the scene for all the following episodes of WTF, so tune in now, to find out more!

Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you.

Show Highlights:

  • Vita explains the main differences are between custom and ready-made window treatments.
  • Custom is not necessarily the only way to go because different situations call for different things.
  • When you would use ready-made, rather than custom window treatments.
  • The way that Vita supports the designers she works with.
  • When you would need to use custom window treatments.
  • When the budget allows for it, custom will always be the better choice.
  • Leading the conversation with your client to where you want it to go.
  • Why most interior designers would prefer to do only custom window treatments.
  • Some important things designers need to be aware of when they're faced with a situation where they have to use ready-made window treatments.
  • Ready-made drapes often take a lot of work to make them look like the picture on the package.
  • Some ways to improve ready-made drapery.

Links:

To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc  

To learn more about working with Window Works: Window Works  

To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine

To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE

To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) WCAA

To learn about Exciting Windows

To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to: events@designertraderesources.com

Facebook: Vitalia Inc

Instagram: Vitalia_inc

LuAnn's website: Luann Nigara

LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com

The information about the upcoming CEU on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, will be on Luann's website, under 'Events and Coaching'.

]]> 2317 no 455: Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/455-megan-molten-another-side-hustle-success-story Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it's changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan's story. Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today's episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she's applied them. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job. It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan. One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer. Starting afresh, both professionally and personally. Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot. Do what you do best, and outsource the rest. Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made. E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work. Using the services of a purchasing agent. Having conversations and making connections. The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes. Bio: Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Links: Megan's email: megan@meganmolten.com Website: Megan Molten Shop: Megan Molten Shop Instagram: Megan Molten Facebook: Megan Molten Pinterest: Megan Molten Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236 Cheryl Luckett - Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397 Tue, 13 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Megan Molten: Another Side Hustle Success Story full 455 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it's changed... Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it's changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan's story. Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today's episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she's applied them. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job. It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan. One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer. Starting afresh, both professionally and personally. Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot. Do what you do best, and outsource the rest. Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made. E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work. Using the services of a purchasing agent. Having conversations and making connections. The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes. Bio: Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Links: Megan's email: megan@meganmolten.com Website: Megan Molten Shop: Megan Molten Shop Instagram: Megan Molten Facebook: Megan Molten Pinterest: Megan Molten Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236 Cheryl Luckett - Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397 Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it's changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan's story.

Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today's episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she's applied them. Tune in now, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job.
  • It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan.
  • One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer.
  • Starting afresh, both professionally and personally.
  • Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot.
  • Do what you do best, and outsource the rest.
  • Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made.
  • E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work.
  • Using the services of a purchasing agent.
  • Having conversations and making connections.
  • The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes.

Bio:

Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love.  Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow!

Links:

Megan's email: megan@meganmolten.com

Website: Megan Molten

Shop: Megan Molten Shop

Instagram: Megan Molten

Facebook: Megan Molten

Pinterest: Megan Molten

Houzz:  Designs By Megan Molten

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Shea McGee #236

Cheryl Luckett - Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397

]]> 5147 no 454: Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal - Lawyers That Speak Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/454-power-talk-friday-jamie-lieberman-hashtag-legal-lawyers-that-speak-designer Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Jamie Lieberman is with us today. Jamie is an attorney, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. She is also the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, and she's dedicated to making the legal field accessible to creative professionals just like you. Jamie is down-to-earth, easy to get along with, and she is passionate about sharing the message that legal doesn't have to be scary. Listen in today, to find out how and why she does this. Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives, business owners, and interior designers, to help and protect them as they grow their businesses. She leads an all-female virtual team with a focus on providing clients with advice on all kinds of subjects, like intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC, and general business law, as well as negotiation strategies. Jamie is the co-host of the Fear Less Business Podcast and she's an outstanding speaker with tons of energy! There are so many insights to be gained from today's conversation. Tune in now, to find out how to gracefully dismantle a business partnership, keep your eyes wide open, and make sure that your contracts and agreements are all clear. Show Highlights: Daniele Liss (#171) used to be Jamie's partner in Hashtag Legal. Jamie really gets the intricacies of running a creative business. Jamie makes it very easy for people to access her talents. Managing the challenging nuances of running an interior design business. Everything changes when money comes into play. Negotiating towards a common goal, which is building a successful business. Partnership agreements can be changed. Covering vendor liability could put designers at risk. A contract is actually a gift, it's not a bad thing. It's perfectly acceptable to negotiate a contract before signing it. You have to learn from the things that come up. It's all about clear communication. Jamie is learning from her clients all the time. She likes it when her clients challenge her. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Daniele Liss #171 Amanda Berlin #420 Jenny Maddon #332 Peter Lang- The Designer CPA #349 Tori Alexander #445 Links: Jamie's website: Hashtag Legal Jamie's email: jamie@hashtag-legal.com Jamie on Instagram: Hashtag-legal Jamie on Facebook Jamie on Linked-In Fri, 09 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal - Lawyers That Speak Designer full 454 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Jamie Lieberman is with us today. Jamie is an attorney, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. She is also the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, and she's dedicated to making the legal field accessible to creative... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Jamie Lieberman is with us today. Jamie is an attorney, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. She is also the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, and she's dedicated to making the legal field accessible to creative professionals just like you. Jamie is down-to-earth, easy to get along with, and she is passionate about sharing the message that legal doesn't have to be scary. Listen in today, to find out how and why she does this. Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives, business owners, and interior designers, to help and protect them as they grow their businesses. She leads an all-female virtual team with a focus on providing clients with advice on all kinds of subjects, like intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC, and general business law, as well as negotiation strategies. Jamie is the co-host of the Fear Less Business Podcast and she's an outstanding speaker with tons of energy! There are so many insights to be gained from today's conversation. Tune in now, to find out how to gracefully dismantle a business partnership, keep your eyes wide open, and make sure that your contracts and agreements are all clear. Show Highlights: Daniele Liss (#171) used to be Jamie's partner in Hashtag Legal. Jamie really gets the intricacies of running a creative business. Jamie makes it very easy for people to access her talents. Managing the challenging nuances of running an interior design business. Everything changes when money comes into play. Negotiating towards a common goal, which is building a successful business. Partnership agreements can be changed. Covering vendor liability could put designers at risk. A contract is actually a gift, it's not a bad thing. It's perfectly acceptable to negotiate a contract before signing it. You have to learn from the things that come up. It's all about clear communication. Jamie is learning from her clients all the time. She likes it when her clients challenge her. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Daniele Liss #171 Amanda Berlin #420 Jenny Maddon #332 Peter Lang- The Designer CPA #349 Tori Alexander #445 Links: Jamie's website: Hashtag Legal Jamie's email: jamie@hashtag-legal.com Jamie on Instagram: Hashtag-legal Jamie on Facebook Jamie on Linked-In Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Jamie Lieberman is with us today. Jamie is an attorney, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. She is also the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, and she's dedicated to making the legal field accessible to creative professionals just like you. Jamie is down-to-earth, easy to get along with, and she is passionate about sharing the message that legal doesn't have to be scary. Listen in today, to find out how and why she does this.

Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives, business owners, and interior designers, to help and protect them as they grow their businesses. She leads an all-female virtual team with a focus on providing clients with advice on all kinds of subjects, like intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC, and general business law, as well as negotiation strategies. Jamie is the co-host of the Fear Less Business Podcast and she's an outstanding speaker with tons of energy! There are so many insights to be gained from today's conversation. Tune in now, to find out how to gracefully dismantle a business partnership, keep your eyes wide open, and make sure that your contracts and agreements are all clear.

Show Highlights:

  • Daniele Liss (#171) used to be Jamie's partner in Hashtag Legal.
  • Jamie really gets the intricacies of running a creative business.
  • Jamie makes it very easy for people to access her talents.
  • Managing the challenging nuances of running an interior design business.
  • Everything changes when money comes into play.
  • Negotiating towards a common goal, which is building a successful business.
  • Partnership agreements can be changed.
  • Covering vendor liability could put designers at risk.
  • A contract is actually a gift, it's not a bad thing.
  • It's perfectly acceptable to negotiate a contract before signing it.
  • You have to learn from the things that come up.
  • It's all about clear communication.
  • Jamie is learning from her clients all the time. She likes it when her clients challenge her.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Daniele Liss #171

Amanda Berlin #420

Jenny Maddon #332

Peter Lang- The Designer CPA #349

Tori Alexander #445

Links:

Jamie's website: Hashtag Legal

Jamie's email: jamie@hashtag-legal.com

Jamie on Instagram: Hashtag-legal

Jamie on Facebook

Jamie on Linked-In

]]> 3491 no 453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/453-carolyn-flannery-impact-your-pipeline-with-this-one-strategy Welcome to the show! Today, Carolyn Flannery, the principal of Carolyn Rebuffel Designs joins us on the show. Apart from designing interiors, Carolyn also heads up Workroom C, a textile company which offers pillows, drapery, bespoke soft goods, and fabric by the yard. Carolyn built her design business in a rather unusual way and she has a really organized approach to running it. In today's episode, she shares with us how she intentionally focuses on families with children, who understand the value of having family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings which are also beautiful. Listen in today, to hear about Carolyn, her business, and how she markets specifically to her ideal clients, using one strategy that has been keeping her pipeline full for more than 10 years. With over a decade of hospitality experience under her belt, Principal Designer Carolyn Rebuffel Flannery brings a thoughtful approach to each project she completes. At her namesake design firm, established in 2006, Carolyn believes that your home should be a retreat that provides you with a sense of ease and calm. After building a career as an antique store owner, buyer, and merchandiser, Carolyn transitioned to interior design, crafting practical yet beautiful interiors that reflect her clients' unique lifestyles. As a mother of four, Carolyn understands the value of creating family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings. Her work highlights unconventional lighting, savvy design solutions, and a healthy mix of high and low pieces. In addition to designing artful interiors, Carolyn helms WorkRoom C, a textile company that offers fabric by the yard, pillows, drapery, and bespoke soft goods. She holds a BA in Art History from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a MPS in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Tune in now to find out more. Show Highlights: How Carolyn started with her unusual business strategy. Carolyn explains her free, and her paid consultation processes. Carolyn has grown her business so that she's in a position to direct it in any way that she chooses. It's not always the swankiest private schools that make the best clients for Carolyn. Some clients tend to experience some fear when using the services of an interior designer for the first time. Being really clear when explaining your processes and pricing to new clients. Staying on track with the amount of time that's been allocated for a consultation. You don't have to have children to be able to tap into the schools' PTA donation market. It may take some time to tap into Carolyn's kind of market. Carolyn talks about how she started with the fabrics that she's designing. The complicated reality of providing exactly what clients want. What Carolyn learned from Amy Flurry about PR. You have to have an intention behind everything that you do in your business. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph # 39  Krista Coupar #24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Links: Carolyn Rebuffel Designs: Workroom C WorkRoom C Tue, 06 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy full 453 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today, Carolyn Flannery, the principal of Carolyn Rebuffel Designs joins us on the show. Apart from designing interiors, Carolyn also heads up , a textile company which offers pillows, drapery, bespoke soft goods, and fabric by... Welcome to the show! Today, Carolyn Flannery, the principal of Carolyn Rebuffel Designs joins us on the show. Apart from designing interiors, Carolyn also heads up Workroom C, a textile company which offers pillows, drapery, bespoke soft goods, and fabric by the yard. Carolyn built her design business in a rather unusual way and she has a really organized approach to running it. In today's episode, she shares with us how she intentionally focuses on families with children, who understand the value of having family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings which are also beautiful. Listen in today, to hear about Carolyn, her business, and how she markets specifically to her ideal clients, using one strategy that has been keeping her pipeline full for more than 10 years. With over a decade of hospitality experience under her belt, Principal Designer Carolyn Rebuffel Flannery brings a thoughtful approach to each project she completes. At her namesake design firm, established in 2006, Carolyn believes that your home should be a retreat that provides you with a sense of ease and calm. After building a career as an antique store owner, buyer, and merchandiser, Carolyn transitioned to interior design, crafting practical yet beautiful interiors that reflect her clients' unique lifestyles. As a mother of four, Carolyn understands the value of creating family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings. Her work highlights unconventional lighting, savvy design solutions, and a healthy mix of high and low pieces. In addition to designing artful interiors, Carolyn helms WorkRoom C, a textile company that offers fabric by the yard, pillows, drapery, and bespoke soft goods. She holds a BA in Art History from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a MPS in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Tune in now to find out more. Show Highlights: How Carolyn started with her unusual business strategy. Carolyn explains her free, and her paid consultation processes. Carolyn has grown her business so that she's in a position to direct it in any way that she chooses. It's not always the swankiest private schools that make the best clients for Carolyn. Some clients tend to experience some fear when using the services of an interior designer for the first time. Being really clear when explaining your processes and pricing to new clients. Staying on track with the amount of time that's been allocated for a consultation. You don't have to have children to be able to tap into the schools' PTA donation market. It may take some time to tap into Carolyn's kind of market. Carolyn talks about how she started with the fabrics that she's designing. The complicated reality of providing exactly what clients want. What Carolyn learned from Amy Flurry about PR. You have to have an intention behind everything that you do in your business. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph # 39  Krista Coupar #24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Links: Carolyn Rebuffel Designs: Workroom C WorkRoom C Welcome to the show! Today, Carolyn Flannery, the principal of Carolyn Rebuffel Designs joins us on the show. Apart from designing interiors, Carolyn also heads up Workroom C, a textile company which offers pillows, drapery, bespoke soft goods, and fabric by the yard. Carolyn built her design business in a rather unusual way and she has a really organized approach to running it. In today's episode, she shares with us how she intentionally focuses on families with children, who understand the value of having family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings which are also beautiful. Listen in today, to hear about Carolyn, her business, and how she markets specifically to her ideal clients, using one strategy that has been keeping her pipeline full for more than 10 years.

With over a decade of hospitality experience under her belt, Principal Designer Carolyn Rebuffel Flannery brings a thoughtful approach to each project she completes. At her namesake design firm, established in 2006, Carolyn believes that your home should be a retreat that provides you with a sense of ease and calm. After building a career as an antique store owner, buyer, and merchandiser, Carolyn transitioned to interior design, crafting practical yet beautiful interiors that reflect her clients' unique lifestyles.

As a mother of four, Carolyn understands the value of creating family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings. Her work highlights unconventional lighting, savvy design solutions, and a healthy mix of high and low pieces. In addition to designing artful interiors, Carolyn helms WorkRoom C, a textile company that offers fabric by the yard, pillows, drapery, and bespoke soft goods. She holds a BA in Art History from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a MPS in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Tune in now to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • How Carolyn started with her unusual business strategy.
  • Carolyn explains her free, and her paid consultation processes.
  • Carolyn has grown her business so that she's in a position to direct it in any way that she chooses.
  • It's not always the swankiest private schools that make the best clients for Carolyn.
  • Some clients tend to experience some fear when using the services of an interior designer for the first time.
  • Being really clear when explaining your processes and pricing to new clients.
  • Staying on track with the amount of time that's been allocated for a consultation.
  • You don't have to have children to be able to tap into the schools' PTA donation market.
  • It may take some time to tap into Carolyn's kind of market.
  • Carolyn talks about how she started with the fabrics that she's designing.
  • The complicated reality of providing exactly what clients want.
  • What Carolyn learned from Amy Flurry about PR.
  • You have to have an intention behind everything that you do in your business.

Other episodes mentioned in this show:

Amy Flurry #108 and #323

Andrew Joseph # 39

 Krista Coupar #24 #45 #60 #81 #150

Links:

Carolyn Rebuffel Designs: Workroom C

WorkRoom C

]]> 4388 no 452: Power Talk Friday: Revel Woods & American OEM: A Hardwood Flooring Company with Heart http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/452-power-talk-friday-revel-woods-american-oem-a-hardwood-flooring-company-with-heart Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is a special episode, sponsored by American OEM,  one of our nation's leading hardwood flooring manufacturers. We're really fortunate to have Allie Finkell, the executive vice president of American OEM, with us on the show. This past spring, Allie and American OEM asked Revel Woods to invite several designers for a tour of their factory in Nashville. LuAnn and Vin were lucky enough to be included. This remarkable Tennessee-based factory is called the Prison Industry Enterprise because it operates within a penitentiary. In today's episode, Allie talks about their unique prison-based business model, she gives us a breakdown of the difference between hardwood floors made in the US and those made in China, and she discusses the relationship that American OEM has with Revel Woods, and why and how that had brought Allie and LuAnn together. Listen in today, to find out what Allie has to share about this unusual enterprise. Allie is known as royalty in the wood flooring industry because she is the great-granddaughter of L. W. Anderson, who was the founder of Anderson Hardwood Floors, and she has spent her life immersed in the hardwood flooring industry. Following early career sales and marketing experience in New York City, Allie eventually joined the family business, taking on a sales position covering the Northeastern US. During that time, Anderson was acquired by Shaw Industries, and Allie helped lead the introduction of hardwood, laminate, ceramic and vinyl into Shaw’s commercial product offering. In 2013, Allie took on the role of Director of Marketing for Mohawk Industries, building another commercial hard surface program from the ground up. Allie followed her family roots back to hardwood in 2014 when she joined American OEM as executive vice president, helping grow the Anderson-Finkell legacy of beautiful, enduring American-made flooring for the next generation. A graduate of Furman University, Allie holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Allie talks about the remarkable prison industry enterprise. How hardwood floors are made within a prison environment. The benefits of this unique business model to all concerned. How the landscape of the hardwood flooring industry has changed over the last ten to fifteen years. The way that the Chinese have begun to erode the hardwood flooring industry. The difference between the quality of the Chinese and the American product. Allie discusses the quality of the product that her company produces. The difference between hardwood and LVT flooring. Some things that designers could ask builders about hardwood flooring. Character does not have to mean rustic. Designers can purchase American OEM flooring via Revel Woods. Allie explains what makes Revel Woods so special. Hearth Wood is Allie's family flagship brand. It's her family's way to leverage their history and continue their legacy in the industry. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: John Dupra of Revel Woods #329 Links: Revel Woods American OEM Hearth Wood Floors Instagram - Revel Woods Fri, 02 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Revel Woods & American OEM: A Hardwood Flooring Company with Heart full 452 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is a special episode, sponsored by American OEM,  one of our nation's leading hardwood flooring manufacturers. We're really fortunate to have Allie Finkell, the executive vice president of American OEM,... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is a special episode, sponsored by American OEM,  one of our nation's leading hardwood flooring manufacturers. We're really fortunate to have Allie Finkell, the executive vice president of American OEM, with us on the show. This past spring, Allie and American OEM asked Revel Woods to invite several designers for a tour of their factory in Nashville. LuAnn and Vin were lucky enough to be included. This remarkable Tennessee-based factory is called the Prison Industry Enterprise because it operates within a penitentiary. In today's episode, Allie talks about their unique prison-based business model, she gives us a breakdown of the difference between hardwood floors made in the US and those made in China, and she discusses the relationship that American OEM has with Revel Woods, and why and how that had brought Allie and LuAnn together. Listen in today, to find out what Allie has to share about this unusual enterprise. Allie is known as royalty in the wood flooring industry because she is the great-granddaughter of L. W. Anderson, who was the founder of Anderson Hardwood Floors, and she has spent her life immersed in the hardwood flooring industry. Following early career sales and marketing experience in New York City, Allie eventually joined the family business, taking on a sales position covering the Northeastern US. During that time, Anderson was acquired by Shaw Industries, and Allie helped lead the introduction of hardwood, laminate, ceramic and vinyl into Shaw’s commercial product offering. In 2013, Allie took on the role of Director of Marketing for Mohawk Industries, building another commercial hard surface program from the ground up. Allie followed her family roots back to hardwood in 2014 when she joined American OEM as executive vice president, helping grow the Anderson-Finkell legacy of beautiful, enduring American-made flooring for the next generation. A graduate of Furman University, Allie holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Allie talks about the remarkable prison industry enterprise. How hardwood floors are made within a prison environment. The benefits of this unique business model to all concerned. How the landscape of the hardwood flooring industry has changed over the last ten to fifteen years. The way that the Chinese have begun to erode the hardwood flooring industry. The difference between the quality of the Chinese and the American product. Allie discusses the quality of the product that her company produces. The difference between hardwood and LVT flooring. Some things that designers could ask builders about hardwood flooring. Character does not have to mean rustic. Designers can purchase American OEM flooring via Revel Woods. Allie explains what makes Revel Woods so special. Hearth Wood is Allie's family flagship brand. It's her family's way to leverage their history and continue their legacy in the industry. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: John Dupra of Revel Woods #329 Links: Revel Woods American OEM Hearth Wood Floors Instagram - Revel Woods Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is a special episode, sponsored by American OEM,  one of our nation's leading hardwood flooring manufacturers.

We're really fortunate to have Allie Finkell, the executive vice president of American OEM, with us on the show. This past spring, Allie and American OEM asked Revel Woods to invite several designers for a tour of their factory in Nashville. LuAnn and Vin were lucky enough to be included. This remarkable Tennessee-based factory is called the Prison Industry Enterprise because it operates within a penitentiary. In today's episode, Allie talks about their unique prison-based business model, she gives us a breakdown of the difference between hardwood floors made in the US and those made in China, and she discusses the relationship that American OEM has with Revel Woods, and why and how that had brought Allie and LuAnn together. Listen in today, to find out what Allie has to share about this unusual enterprise.

Allie is known as royalty in the wood flooring industry because she is the great-granddaughter of L. W. Anderson, who was the founder of Anderson Hardwood Floors, and she has spent her life immersed in the hardwood flooring industry. Following early career sales and marketing experience in New York City, Allie eventually joined the family business, taking on a sales position covering the Northeastern US. During that time, Anderson was acquired by Shaw Industries, and Allie helped lead the introduction of hardwood, laminate, ceramic and vinyl into Shaw’s commercial product offering. In 2013, Allie took on the role of Director of Marketing for Mohawk Industries, building another commercial hard surface program from the ground up.

Allie followed her family roots back to hardwood in 2014 when she joined American OEM as executive vice president, helping grow the Anderson-Finkell legacy of beautiful, enduring American-made flooring for the next generation.

A graduate of Furman University, Allie holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Allie talks about the remarkable prison industry enterprise.
  • How hardwood floors are made within a prison environment.
  • The benefits of this unique business model to all concerned.
  • How the landscape of the hardwood flooring industry has changed over the last ten to fifteen years.
  • The way that the Chinese have begun to erode the hardwood flooring industry.
  • The difference between the quality of the Chinese and the American product.
  • Allie discusses the quality of the product that her company produces.
  • The difference between hardwood and LVT flooring.
  • Some things that designers could ask builders about hardwood flooring.
  • Character does not have to mean rustic.
  • Designers can purchase American OEM flooring via Revel Woods.
  • Allie explains what makes Revel Woods so special.
  • Hearth Wood is Allie's family flagship brand. It's her family's way to leverage their history and continue their legacy in the industry.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

John Dupra of Revel Woods #329

Links:

Revel Woods

American OEM

Hearth Wood Floors

Instagram - Revel Woods

]]> 3966 no 451: Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/451-elissa-grayer-starting-from-the-ground-up-after-19-years Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, we have Elissa Grayer joining us on the show. Elissa is here today, just like so many of our guests over the years, to share her lessons in business. Today's show is a little different, however. Because, often, our colleagues have shared with us the lessons they've learned in hindsight or the past difficulties that they experienced in their careers, that they weren't sure they would ever manage to overcome. Yet today, Elissa, who is going through an unusual season in her business, bravely shares something with us that she is knee-deep in, right now. In today's episode, she talks to LuAnn about what she's been going through over the last six months, some of the lessons she's learned, and the action steps she is taking to remedy the situation. Listen in, to hear her story. After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education, Elissa also studied at both the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Elissa's business has changed significantly because, since January, her turnover has taken a drastic downturn. Elissa describes what she's been going through over the last six months. Elissa recommends outsourcing your business management to Studio Webware. The value of working with an excellent business coach and having the support of like-minded business owners. It's really important to keep checking your numbers consistently. And to act timeously, if necessary. It's all about setting goals and being accountable. Elissa has never worked for anyone else, so she hasn't had the opportunity to learn business fundamentals from a seasoned business owner. Today, you have to actively market your business. The great incentive gifts that Elissa has been giving to realtors. Waiting for the right time to approach realtors to introduce your services to them. Building the skill of rainmaking. Elissa has been building time-blocking into her schedule. If you ever have downtime in your business, you can make good use of it to get started with some new processes. Learning to trust and use your intuition. Looking for the lessons in the hard times. Bio: After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education she has also studied at the prestigious New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. She strives to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect each client’s personality in an elegant and comfortable way; Classic luxury design for modern living. Elissa subscribes to the belief that creating a home should be a partnership between the designer and homeowner. Educating her clients and exposing them to the exclusive access that only an expert can bring, Elissa Grayer Interior Design creates smart solutions that fit within the homeowners’ budget and lifestyle. Links: Website: Elissa Grayer Design Instagram: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Facebook: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Pinterest: Elissa Grayer Exciting Windows Tue, 30 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Elissa Grayer: Starting From the Ground Up, After 19 Years full 451 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, we have Elissa Grayer joining us on the show. Elissa is here today, just like so many of our guests over the years, to share her lessons in business. Today's show is a little different, however. Because,... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, we have Elissa Grayer joining us on the show. Elissa is here today, just like so many of our guests over the years, to share her lessons in business. Today's show is a little different, however. Because, often, our colleagues have shared with us the lessons they've learned in hindsight or the past difficulties that they experienced in their careers, that they weren't sure they would ever manage to overcome. Yet today, Elissa, who is going through an unusual season in her business, bravely shares something with us that she is knee-deep in, right now. In today's episode, she talks to LuAnn about what she's been going through over the last six months, some of the lessons she's learned, and the action steps she is taking to remedy the situation. Listen in, to hear her story. After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education, Elissa also studied at both the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Elissa's business has changed significantly because, since January, her turnover has taken a drastic downturn. Elissa describes what she's been going through over the last six months. Elissa recommends outsourcing your business management to Studio Webware. The value of working with an excellent business coach and having the support of like-minded business owners. It's really important to keep checking your numbers consistently. And to act timeously, if necessary. It's all about setting goals and being accountable. Elissa has never worked for anyone else, so she hasn't had the opportunity to learn business fundamentals from a seasoned business owner. Today, you have to actively market your business. The great incentive gifts that Elissa has been giving to realtors. Waiting for the right time to approach realtors to introduce your services to them. Building the skill of rainmaking. Elissa has been building time-blocking into her schedule. If you ever have downtime in your business, you can make good use of it to get started with some new processes. Learning to trust and use your intuition. Looking for the lessons in the hard times. Bio: After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education she has also studied at the prestigious New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. She strives to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect each client’s personality in an elegant and comfortable way; Classic luxury design for modern living. Elissa subscribes to the belief that creating a home should be a partnership between the designer and homeowner. Educating her clients and exposing them to the exclusive access that only an expert can bring, Elissa Grayer Interior Design creates smart solutions that fit within the homeowners’ budget and lifestyle. Links: Website: Elissa Grayer Design Instagram: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Facebook: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Pinterest: Elissa Grayer Exciting Windows Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, we have Elissa Grayer joining us on the show. Elissa is here today, just like so many of our guests over the years, to share her lessons in business. Today's show is a little different, however. Because, often, our colleagues have shared with us the lessons they've learned in hindsight or the past difficulties that they experienced in their careers, that they weren't sure they would ever manage to overcome. Yet today, Elissa, who is going through an unusual season in her business, bravely shares something with us that she is knee-deep in, right now. In today's episode, she talks to LuAnn about what she's been going through over the last six months, some of the lessons she's learned, and the action steps she is taking to remedy the situation. Listen in, to hear her story.

After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education, Elissa also studied at both the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design.

Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. Tune in now, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Elissa's business has changed significantly because, since January, her turnover has taken a drastic downturn.
  • Elissa describes what she's been going through over the last six months.
  • Elissa recommends outsourcing your business management to Studio Webware.
  • The value of working with an excellent business coach and having the support of like-minded business owners.
  • It's really important to keep checking your numbers consistently. And to act timeously, if necessary.
  • It's all about setting goals and being accountable.
  • Elissa has never worked for anyone else, so she hasn't had the opportunity to learn business fundamentals from a seasoned business owner.
  • Today, you have to actively market your business.
  • The great incentive gifts that Elissa has been giving to realtors.
  • Waiting for the right time to approach realtors to introduce your services to them.
  • Building the skill of rainmaking.
  • Elissa has been building time-blocking into her schedule.
  • If you ever have downtime in your business, you can make good use of it to get started with some new processes.
  • Learning to trust and use your intuition.
  • Looking for the lessons in the hard times.

Bio:

After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education she has also studied at the prestigious New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design.

Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. She strives to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect each client’s personality in an elegant and comfortable way; Classic luxury design for modern living.

Elissa subscribes to the belief that creating a home should be a partnership between the designer and homeowner. Educating her clients and exposing them to the exclusive access that only an expert can bring, Elissa Grayer Interior Design creates smart solutions that fit within the homeowners’ budget and lifestyle.

Links:

Website: Elissa Grayer Design

Instagram: Elissa Grayer Interior Design

Facebook: Elissa Grayer Interior Design

Pinterest: Elissa Grayer

Exciting Windows

]]> 4609 no 450: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/450-power-talk-friday-bethany-mabee-outsource-the-80-business-and-do-the-20-interior-design Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Have you ever wished that you could outsource your procurement process to a proven professional? If so, you will gain a lot from today's show because we have Bethany Mabee with us, and Bethany is your lady if you ever want to outsource the procurement process of any interior design project! She makes it possible for you to work with her whether you're a small interior design firm looking for some help with the procurement process of a one-off project, or you're a larger firm with several projects going on at the same time, consistently. In today's episode, Bethany explains the way that she assists designers, and she discusses the kind of accountability that she has built into her process. Listen in today, to find out how Bethany could mean real magic for you and your design business. Before opening her firm, Interior Procurement Group, Bethany worked behind the scenes in the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years. Her career began in 2001, at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through to production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. Since opening her Procurement Group, Bethany has worked with dozens of designers, on a project-by-project basis, acting as an agent on their behalf. Her goal is to eliminate all non-design-related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are free to focus on the other areas of the project that demand their attention. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Bethany loves swimming in details and finding organization in chaos. Bethany works with different size firms and projects. Bethany works with designers only during the procurement phase of their projects. It's great for designers not to have to train someone up in the area of procurement. The vast range of procurement services that Bethany supplies. The kind of admin that Bethany covers. Why Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, specializes in the design industry. About Kimberly Merlitty's specialty. Bethany discusses the monthly check-in that she does with designers. Bethany supports interior designers at an expert level. Sending regular status reports to her clients. Confidentiality is really important to Bethany. Bethany's files are available to the designers at all times. Keeping the designers up to date with the status of their purchases. Working on the finer details. Bethany offers her support, on-site, on installation day. Bethany really respects designers. She sees them, she hears them, and she understands their value. Bio: Bethany has been working behind-the-scenes within the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years.   In 2001, her career began at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. In 2009 after having her first child, Bethany wanted a chance to continue doing the work she loves, while also being more available to her son.   Noticing that many designers in the industry were juggling the purchasing process on their own and that most dreaded this time-consuming, archaic process.   Bethany decided to branch out on her own as a consultant and provide residential furniture procurement solutions to design clients.  Bethany has been able to work with a variety of clients across the country, from small boutique firms to independent designers.  Bethany works with designers on a project-by-project basis and acts as an agent on their behalf.   Her goal is to eliminate all non-design related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are freed up to focus on other areas of the project that demand their attention. Bethany remotely manages all aspects of the procurement process including purchasing, billing, and warehousing.   Once a designer’s specifications are finalized, Bethany takes over by generating client proposals, processing purchase orders, and communicating custom specifications and sample approvals to manufacturers/vendors as needed.  Throughout the purchasing process, Bethany tracks all costs and markups for designer profitability and maintains communication and records with the designer’s accountant.  Bethany also manages the installation process for her clients by facilitating vendor correspondence throughout production, communicating material timeframes to workrooms, maintaining project production status sheets, submitting regular updates to the design team, coordinating local and long-distance shipments with carriers, recording warehouse receiving reports, tracking freight and warehousing costs, coordinating damage claims, repairs and replacements, coordinating building installation arrangements and insurance requirements, attending and supervising project installations and handling any post-installation follow up and coordination. Bethany has a unique understanding of the creative process.   Her office doubles as an art studio for her other work as an abstract artist.  As a painter, she understands that projects are the designers’ own works of art and that they deserve to be handled with the utmost attention to detail.    For years, Bethany would not even share with her procurement clients that she was also a painter.  She worried that it would discredit her abilities to manage the logistical tasks of their projects.  Over the years, Bethany has learned that these two roles ebb and flow together perfectly and some procurement clients have even become painting commission clients. She is grateful to interior designers for allowing her to fulfill her own calling to express both her logistical and creative sides. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Peter Lang, The Designer CPA #349 Kimberly Merlitti # 361 and #442 Links: LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com Interior PG Bethany Mabee Art For your MyDoma Studios trial, go to A Well Designed Business LuAnn is running her Power Talk Friday One-Day Coaching Event on July 27th, 2019 in Las Vegas. If you'd like to get in, email LuAnn. LuAnn will be at the Las Vegas Market on Monday, at 3 pm, at Uttermost. Nancy Ganzekaufer will be in the seminar space at 11 am, with IDS, doing a presentation about body language. The event is sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Interior Design Society (IDS). Fri, 26 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design full 450 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Have you ever wished that you could outsource your procurement process to a proven professional? If so, you will gain a lot from today's show because we have Bethany Mabee with us, and Bethany is your lady if you ever... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Have you ever wished that you could outsource your procurement process to a proven professional? If so, you will gain a lot from today's show because we have Bethany Mabee with us, and Bethany is your lady if you ever want to outsource the procurement process of any interior design project! She makes it possible for you to work with her whether you're a small interior design firm looking for some help with the procurement process of a one-off project, or you're a larger firm with several projects going on at the same time, consistently. In today's episode, Bethany explains the way that she assists designers, and she discusses the kind of accountability that she has built into her process. Listen in today, to find out how Bethany could mean real magic for you and your design business. Before opening her firm, Interior Procurement Group, Bethany worked behind the scenes in the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years. Her career began in 2001, at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through to production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. Since opening her Procurement Group, Bethany has worked with dozens of designers, on a project-by-project basis, acting as an agent on their behalf. Her goal is to eliminate all non-design-related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are free to focus on the other areas of the project that demand their attention. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Bethany loves swimming in details and finding organization in chaos. Bethany works with different size firms and projects. Bethany works with designers only during the procurement phase of their projects. It's great for designers not to have to train someone up in the area of procurement. The vast range of procurement services that Bethany supplies. The kind of admin that Bethany covers. Why Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, specializes in the design industry. About Kimberly Merlitty's specialty. Bethany discusses the monthly check-in that she does with designers. Bethany supports interior designers at an expert level. Sending regular status reports to her clients. Confidentiality is really important to Bethany. Bethany's files are available to the designers at all times. Keeping the designers up to date with the status of their purchases. Working on the finer details. Bethany offers her support, on-site, on installation day. Bethany really respects designers. She sees them, she hears them, and she understands their value. Bio: Bethany has been working behind-the-scenes within the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years.   In 2001, her career began at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. In 2009 after having her first child, Bethany wanted a chance to continue doing the work she loves, while also being more available to her son.   Noticing that many designers in the industry were juggling the purchasing process on their own and that most dreaded this time-consuming, archaic process.   Bethany decided to branch out on her own as a consultant and provide residential furniture procurement solutions to design clients.  Bethany has been able to work with a variety of clients across the country, from small boutique firms to independent designers.  Bethany works with designers on a project-by-project basis and acts as an agent on their behalf.   Her goal is to eliminate all non-design related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are freed up to focus on other areas of the project that demand their attention. Bethany remotely manages all aspects of the procurement process including purchasing, billing, and warehousing.   Once a designer’s specifications are finalized, Bethany takes over by generating client proposals, processing purchase orders, and communicating custom specifications and sample approvals to manufacturers/vendors as needed.  Throughout the purchasing process, Bethany tracks all costs and markups for designer profitability and maintains communication and records with the designer’s accountant.  Bethany also manages the installation process for her clients by facilitating vendor correspondence throughout production, communicating material timeframes to workrooms, maintaining project production status sheets, submitting regular updates to the design team, coordinating local and long-distance shipments with carriers, recording warehouse receiving reports, tracking freight and warehousing costs, coordinating damage claims, repairs and replacements, coordinating building installation arrangements and insurance requirements, attending and supervising project installations and handling any post-installation follow up and coordination. Bethany has a unique understanding of the creative process.   Her office doubles as an art studio for her other work as an abstract artist.  As a painter, she understands that projects are the designers’ own works of art and that they deserve to be handled with the utmost attention to detail.    For years, Bethany would not even share with her procurement clients that she was also a painter.  She worried that it would discredit her abilities to manage the logistical tasks of their projects.  Over the years, Bethany has learned that these two roles ebb and flow together perfectly and some procurement clients have even become painting commission clients. She is grateful to interior designers for allowing her to fulfill her own calling to express both her logistical and creative sides. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Peter Lang, The Designer CPA #349 Kimberly Merlitti # 361 and #442 Links: LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com Interior PG Bethany Mabee Art For your MyDoma Studios trial, go to A Well Designed Business LuAnn is running her Power Talk Friday One-Day Coaching Event on July 27th, 2019 in Las Vegas. If you'd like to get in, email LuAnn. LuAnn will be at the Las Vegas Market on Monday, at 3 pm, at Uttermost. Nancy Ganzekaufer will be in the seminar space at 11 am, with IDS, doing a presentation about body language. The event is sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Interior Design Society (IDS). Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Have you ever wished that you could outsource your procurement process to a proven professional? If so, you will gain a lot from today's show because we have Bethany Mabee with us, and Bethany is your lady if you ever want to outsource the procurement process of any interior design project! She makes it possible for you to work with her whether you're a small interior design firm looking for some help with the procurement process of a one-off project, or you're a larger firm with several projects going on at the same time, consistently. In today's episode, Bethany explains the way that she assists designers, and she discusses the kind of accountability that she has built into her process. Listen in today, to find out how Bethany could mean real magic for you and your design business.

Before opening her firm, Interior Procurement Group, Bethany worked behind the scenes in the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years. Her career began in 2001, at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through to production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. Since opening her Procurement Group, Bethany has worked with dozens of designers, on a project-by-project basis, acting as an agent on their behalf. Her goal is to eliminate all non-design-related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are free to focus on the other areas of the project that demand their attention. Tune in now, to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Bethany loves swimming in details and finding organization in chaos.
  • Bethany works with different size firms and projects.
  • Bethany works with designers only during the procurement phase of their projects.
  • It's great for designers not to have to train someone up in the area of procurement.
  • The vast range of procurement services that Bethany supplies.
  • The kind of admin that Bethany covers.
  • Why Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, specializes in the design industry.
  • About Kimberly Merlitty's specialty.
  • Bethany discusses the monthly check-in that she does with designers.
  • Bethany supports interior designers at an expert level.
  • Sending regular status reports to her clients.
  • Confidentiality is really important to Bethany.
  • Bethany's files are available to the designers at all times.
  • Keeping the designers up to date with the status of their purchases.
  • Working on the finer details.
  • Bethany offers her support, on-site, on installation day.
  • Bethany really respects designers. She sees them, she hears them, and she understands their value.

Bio:

Bethany has been working behind-the-scenes within the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years.   In 2001, her career began at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009.

In 2009 after having her first child, Bethany wanted a chance to continue doing the work she loves, while also being more available to her son.   Noticing that many designers in the industry were juggling the purchasing process on their own and that most dreaded this time-consuming, archaic process.   Bethany decided to branch out on her own as a consultant and provide residential furniture procurement solutions to design clients.  Bethany has been able to work with a variety of clients across the country, from small boutique firms to independent designers.  Bethany works with designers on a project-by-project basis and acts as an agent on their behalf.   Her goal is to eliminate all non-design related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are freed up to focus on other areas of the project that demand their attention.

Bethany remotely manages all aspects of the procurement process including purchasing, billing, and warehousing.   Once a designer’s specifications are finalized, Bethany takes over by generating client proposals, processing purchase orders, and communicating custom specifications and sample approvals to manufacturers/vendors as needed.  Throughout the purchasing process, Bethany tracks all costs and markups for designer profitability and maintains communication and records with the designer’s accountant.  Bethany also manages the installation process for her clients by facilitating vendor correspondence throughout production, communicating material timeframes to workrooms, maintaining project production status sheets, submitting regular updates to the design team, coordinating local and long-distance shipments with carriers, recording warehouse receiving reports, tracking freight and warehousing costs, coordinating damage claims, repairs and replacements, coordinating building installation arrangements and insurance requirements, attending and supervising project installations and handling any post-installation follow up and coordination.

Bethany has a unique understanding of the creative process.   Her office doubles as an art studio for her other work as an abstract artist.  As a painter, she understands that projects are the designers’ own works of art and that they deserve to be handled with the utmost attention to detail.    For years, Bethany would not even share with her procurement clients that she was also a painter.  She worried that it would discredit her abilities to manage the logistical tasks of their projects.  Over the years, Bethany has learned that these two roles ebb and flow together perfectly and some procurement clients have even become painting commission clients. She is grateful to interior designers for allowing her to fulfill her own calling to express both her logistical and creative sides.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Peter Lang, The Designer CPA #349

Kimberly Merlitti # 361 and #442

Links:

LuAnn's email: info@luannnigara.com

Interior PG

Bethany Mabee Art

For your MyDoma Studios trial, go to A Well Designed Business

LuAnn is running her Power Talk Friday One-Day Coaching Event on July 27th, 2019 in Las Vegas. If you'd like to get in, email LuAnn.

LuAnn will be at the Las Vegas Market on Monday, at 3 pm, at Uttermost.

Nancy Ganzekaufer will be in the seminar space at 11 am, with IDS, doing a presentation about body language.

The event is sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Interior Design Society (IDS).

]]> 4494 no 449: Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/449-design-biz-live-what-we-learned-at-luann-nigara-live-its-about-the-conversation Welcome another episode of Power Talk Friday and Design Biz Live, with Judith Neary and Corey Klassen. It's been several months since the last episode of the Design Biz Live series and today's show is really going to be fun, especially if you were one of the 200 people attending LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, last March, where Corey and Judith were both guest designer panelists. Tune in to today's episode of Design Biz Live, to find out why everyone really needs a Vin man! Judith and Corey are usually the ones to come up with the topics for the Design Biz Live episodes, and their topics are mostly about the things they're facing in their businesses or the things that their colleagues are struggling with, in theirs. For today's episode, however, they have decided to talk about the things that they learned from LuAnn Live. Corey and Judith both have tons of experience in the design industry, so listen in today, to hear what they learned. Show Highlights: Corey really enjoyed connecting with other like-minded individuals and sharing stories and experiences with them. Judith, as a tenured professional in the industry, really loved the amount of information that was available at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. Everyone needs a Vin man! Corey talks about a moment of clarity that he experienced. LuAnn explains where the magic happens. Judith lists five of her take-aways. Corey uses spreadsheets to track everything, so he really loved Michele William's Profit First method. What Judith loved so much about Fred Berns. Your existing client base is the fastest, shortest way to putting money in your pocket. The incredible value of referrals. The power of adversity. Judith gives a shout-out to MyDoma Studios. The benefits of using MyDoma Studio's packages. Corey explains what horizontal revenue is. LuAnn shares what she learned at LuAnn Nigara Live. LuAnn Live 2 will be coming out in 2020. To get onto the email list, so that you can know what's happening and when text the word 'designbiz' to 444999. Tue, 23 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Design Biz Live: What We Learned at LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation full 449 LuAnn Nigara Welcome another episode of Power Talk Friday and Design Biz Live, with Judith Neary and Corey Klassen. It's been several months since the last episode of the Design Biz Live series and today's show is really going to be fun, especially if you were one... Welcome another episode of Power Talk Friday and Design Biz Live, with Judith Neary and Corey Klassen. It's been several months since the last episode of the Design Biz Live series and today's show is really going to be fun, especially if you were one of the 200 people attending LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, last March, where Corey and Judith were both guest designer panelists. Tune in to today's episode of Design Biz Live, to find out why everyone really needs a Vin man! Judith and Corey are usually the ones to come up with the topics for the Design Biz Live episodes, and their topics are mostly about the things they're facing in their businesses or the things that their colleagues are struggling with, in theirs. For today's episode, however, they have decided to talk about the things that they learned from LuAnn Live. Corey and Judith both have tons of experience in the design industry, so listen in today, to hear what they learned. Show Highlights: Corey really enjoyed connecting with other like-minded individuals and sharing stories and experiences with them. Judith, as a tenured professional in the industry, really loved the amount of information that was available at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. Everyone needs a Vin man! Corey talks about a moment of clarity that he experienced. LuAnn explains where the magic happens. Judith lists five of her take-aways. Corey uses spreadsheets to track everything, so he really loved Michele William's Profit First method. What Judith loved so much about Fred Berns. Your existing client base is the fastest, shortest way to putting money in your pocket. The incredible value of referrals. The power of adversity. Judith gives a shout-out to MyDoma Studios. The benefits of using MyDoma Studio's packages. Corey explains what horizontal revenue is. LuAnn shares what she learned at LuAnn Nigara Live. LuAnn Live 2 will be coming out in 2020. To get onto the email list, so that you can know what's happening and when text the word 'designbiz' to 444999. Welcome another episode of Power Talk Friday and Design Biz Live, with Judith Neary and Corey Klassen. It's been several months since the last episode of the Design Biz Live series and today's show is really going to be fun, especially if you were one of the 200 people attending LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, last March, where Corey and Judith were both guest designer panelists. Tune in to today's episode of Design Biz Live, to find out why everyone really needs a Vin man!

Judith and Corey are usually the ones to come up with the topics for the Design Biz Live episodes, and their topics are mostly about the things they're facing in their businesses or the things that their colleagues are struggling with, in theirs. For today's episode, however, they have decided to talk about the things that they learned from LuAnn Live. Corey and Judith both have tons of experience in the design industry, so listen in today, to hear what they learned.

Show Highlights:

  • Corey really enjoyed connecting with other like-minded individuals and sharing stories and experiences with them.
  • Judith, as a tenured professional in the industry, really loved the amount of information that was available at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation.
  • Everyone needs a Vin man!
  • Corey talks about a moment of clarity that he experienced.
  • LuAnn explains where the magic happens.
  • Judith lists five of her take-aways.
  • Corey uses spreadsheets to track everything, so he really loved Michele William's Profit First method.
  • What Judith loved so much about Fred Berns.
  • Your existing client base is the fastest, shortest way to putting money in your pocket.
  • The incredible value of referrals.
  • The power of adversity.
  • Judith gives a shout-out to MyDoma Studios.
  • The benefits of using MyDoma Studio's packages.
  • Corey explains what horizontal revenue is.
  • LuAnn shares what she learned at LuAnn Nigara Live.

LuAnn Live 2 will be coming out in 2020.

To get onto the email list, so that you can know what's happening and when text the word 'designbiz' to 444999.

]]> 3897 no 448: Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/448-window-treatment-friday-a-new-series-featuring-vita-vygovska-and-luann-nigara Welcome to the first episode of Window Treatment Friday! For some time now, designers have been reaching out to LuAnn and asking her to share some of her window treatment expertise, because the window treatment business is a pretty complicated area of business for many designers. So about once a month, LuAnn and Vita Vygovska will be producing an episode of Window Treatment Friday, where they will explain how designers can increase their bottom line by incorporating custom window treatments into their projects. In each episode, they will break down and unravel the intricacies of an aspect of the window treatment business, as it relates to interior designers. They will be giving you content-driven education which is unbiased, truthful, and open, to educate baby designers and inspire the more seasoned and experienced designers to have more confidence, talk to their clients with more authority, and, ultimately, make more profit. Tune in now, to find out more. Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share about the value of incorporating custom window treatments into your design projects. Show Highlights: There are some valuable resources out there for window treatments. There's the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), Exciting Windows, ASID, the IWCE Expo, and Window Fashion Vision Magazine. The goal of Window Treatment Friday is to provide designers with just enough of the right kind of information to help them feel more confident in the world of window treatments. LuAnn explains which designers this show is talking to. Window treatments make up a large portion of interior design projects. Mistakes are part of learning, but they are costly when it comes to window treatments. LuAnn and Vita are here to share their lessons learned, and the mistakes they have made. There are pros and cons to adding window treatments to your ladder of services, as an interior designer. Window treatments make a huge difference to any interior design project. They are like jewelry for the room. There's profit to be made from including window treatments in a design project. Your number one way to make a profit is to sell more things to the same people. Some of the more nuanced points about the value of offering your clients window treatments. In the episodes coming up, LuAnn and Vita will be talking about everything, from custom versus ready-made, to specifying the differences between ready-made rods and custom-made rods, and why and when it matters. Please share with us any questions that you may have about window treatments or the challenges that you face with window treatments, in the comments on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Vita has already come up with 25 different window treatment topics to cover in this show. Links: Vita’s Website: Vitalia Inc Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia Inc Exciting Windows WCAA ASID IWCE The Window Fashion Vision Magazine Mentioned in the show: Sew Much More Podcast Fri, 19 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara full 448 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the first episode of Window Treatment Friday! For some time now, designers have been reaching out to LuAnn and asking her to share some of her window treatment expertise, because the window treatment business is a pretty complicated area of... Welcome to the first episode of Window Treatment Friday! For some time now, designers have been reaching out to LuAnn and asking her to share some of her window treatment expertise, because the window treatment business is a pretty complicated area of business for many designers. So about once a month, LuAnn and Vita Vygovska will be producing an episode of Window Treatment Friday, where they will explain how designers can increase their bottom line by incorporating custom window treatments into their projects. In each episode, they will break down and unravel the intricacies of an aspect of the window treatment business, as it relates to interior designers. They will be giving you content-driven education which is unbiased, truthful, and open, to educate baby designers and inspire the more seasoned and experienced designers to have more confidence, talk to their clients with more authority, and, ultimately, make more profit. Tune in now, to find out more. Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share about the value of incorporating custom window treatments into your design projects. Show Highlights: There are some valuable resources out there for window treatments. There's the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), Exciting Windows, ASID, the IWCE Expo, and Window Fashion Vision Magazine. The goal of Window Treatment Friday is to provide designers with just enough of the right kind of information to help them feel more confident in the world of window treatments. LuAnn explains which designers this show is talking to. Window treatments make up a large portion of interior design projects. Mistakes are part of learning, but they are costly when it comes to window treatments. LuAnn and Vita are here to share their lessons learned, and the mistakes they have made. There are pros and cons to adding window treatments to your ladder of services, as an interior designer. Window treatments make a huge difference to any interior design project. They are like jewelry for the room. There's profit to be made from including window treatments in a design project. Your number one way to make a profit is to sell more things to the same people. Some of the more nuanced points about the value of offering your clients window treatments. In the episodes coming up, LuAnn and Vita will be talking about everything, from custom versus ready-made, to specifying the differences between ready-made rods and custom-made rods, and why and when it matters. Please share with us any questions that you may have about window treatments or the challenges that you face with window treatments, in the comments on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Vita has already come up with 25 different window treatment topics to cover in this show. Links: Vita’s Website: Vitalia Inc Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia Inc Exciting Windows WCAA ASID IWCE The Window Fashion Vision Magazine Mentioned in the show: Sew Much More Podcast Welcome to the first episode of Window Treatment Friday! For some time now, designers have been reaching out to LuAnn and asking her to share some of her window treatment expertise, because the window treatment business is a pretty complicated area of business for many designers. So about once a month, LuAnn and Vita Vygovska will be producing an episode of Window Treatment Friday, where they will explain how designers can increase their bottom line by incorporating custom window treatments into their projects. In each episode, they will break down and unravel the intricacies of an aspect of the window treatment business, as it relates to interior designers. They will be giving you content-driven education which is unbiased, truthful, and open, to educate baby designers and inspire the more seasoned and experienced designers to have more confidence, talk to their clients with more authority, and, ultimately, make more profit. Tune in now, to find out more.

Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist.  Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers.  In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication.  Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share about the value of incorporating custom window treatments into your design projects.

Show Highlights:

  • There are some valuable resources out there for window treatments. There's the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), Exciting Windows, ASID, the IWCE Expo, and Window Fashion Vision Magazine.
  • The goal of Window Treatment Friday is to provide designers with just enough of the right kind of information to help them feel more confident in the world of window treatments.
  • LuAnn explains which designers this show is talking to.
  • Window treatments make up a large portion of interior design projects.
  • Mistakes are part of learning, but they are costly when it comes to window treatments.
  • LuAnn and Vita are here to share their lessons learned, and the mistakes they have made.
  • There are pros and cons to adding window treatments to your ladder of services, as an interior designer.
  • Window treatments make a huge difference to any interior design project. They are like jewelry for the room.
  • There's profit to be made from including window treatments in a design project.
  • Your number one way to make a profit is to sell more things to the same people.
  • Some of the more nuanced points about the value of offering your clients window treatments.
  • In the episodes coming up, LuAnn and Vita will be talking about everything, from custom versus ready-made, to specifying the differences between ready-made rods and custom-made rods, and why and when it matters.
  • Please share with us any questions that you may have about window treatments or the challenges that you face with window treatments, in the comments on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
  • Vita has already come up with 25 different window treatment topics to cover in this show.

Links:

Vita’s Website: Vitalia Inc

Facebook: Vitalia Inc

Instagram: Vitalia Inc

Exciting Windows

WCAA

ASID

IWCE

The Window Fashion Vision Magazine

Mentioned in the show:

Sew Much More Podcast

]]> 2106 no 447: Alex Gourlay: You Can Overcome Your Limiting Mindset and Belief System http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/447-alex-gourlay-you-can-overcome-your-limiting-mindset-and-belief-system Welcome! Today, Alex Gourlay joins us on the show. Eighteen months ago, Alex took LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaupher's Money Mindset and Sales Course. Then recently, she contacted LuAnn to say that she wanted to share what she's learned since taking the course, and the things she's done since then to build her business, with all of you, her designer colleagues out there. For Alex, this has all been around mindset and about breaking through some of the patterns that she noticed in herself. Listen in today, to hear what Alex has to share. Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Alex always knew that she had potential, but she also knew that there was something holding her back. Alex explains what she discovered about mindset issues and her business. Some examples of the mindset issues that Alex has managed to overcome. Two sentences that are really powerful informing how you think. Being confident without acting like a jerk. Growth mindset and fixed mindset. The fear of failure often prevents people from attempting something new. The key that has unlocked so many things for Alex. It feels uncomfortable to look in the mirror, go deep, and get to the next level. It helps to have a really supportive partner in life. The people that you surround yourself with will inevitably influence you. And some of them will try to hold you back because they're scared. The positive impact that Alex's new awareness has had on her business. You have to know what you want in order to create it. Once you know what you want, your brain looks for ways to make it happen. So many people really underestimate the power of their thoughts. Getting comfortable with your own beliefs. It's actually easier than you think to get published in magazines, as long as you do it the right way. It's all about standing in your space, staying in your lane, and being who you are. Giving yourself permission to be your best self. Bio: Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Alex’s design ethos focuses on the character of the houses and clients she works with, with an emphasis on simplicity and laid-back sophistication. She specializes in creating beautiful homes by the harbor or ocean, that her clients can love for many years. Alex’s previous experience in events and client services in global advertising firms has shaped how design projects are run at Vellum, and she is passionate about delivering a highly-organized and smooth experience for her clients. She loves to ‘surprise and delight’ her clients to keep things interesting too! A key value of Alex’s business is creating incredible relationships with clients, her suppliers, and trades, and she has garnered a reputation for being a force to be reckoned with. Alex works with people who are down-to-earth, high-net-worth Sydney-siders who have a desire to create a long-term home or holiday home. Vellum Interiors has been published in Australia House & Garden, InsideOut, Home Beautiful, and has been featured online in The Local Project, Homes to Love and Interiors Addict. Mentioned on the show: Steve Berson: The leader of Exciting Windows Book: Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Ren Miller (Design New Jersey) #12 Ashley Hotham-Cox #321 Shea McGee #236 and #270 Amber Lewis #169 and #184 Power Talk Friday Tue, 16 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Alex Gourlay: You Can Overcome Your Limiting Mindset and Belief System full 447 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Alex Gourlay joins us on the show. Eighteen months ago, Alex took LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaupher's Money Mindset and Sales Course. Then recently, she contacted LuAnn to say that she wanted to share what she's learned since taking the... Welcome! Today, Alex Gourlay joins us on the show. Eighteen months ago, Alex took LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaupher's Money Mindset and Sales Course. Then recently, she contacted LuAnn to say that she wanted to share what she's learned since taking the course, and the things she's done since then to build her business, with all of you, her designer colleagues out there. For Alex, this has all been around mindset and about breaking through some of the patterns that she noticed in herself. Listen in today, to hear what Alex has to share. Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Alex always knew that she had potential, but she also knew that there was something holding her back. Alex explains what she discovered about mindset issues and her business. Some examples of the mindset issues that Alex has managed to overcome. Two sentences that are really powerful informing how you think. Being confident without acting like a jerk. Growth mindset and fixed mindset. The fear of failure often prevents people from attempting something new. The key that has unlocked so many things for Alex. It feels uncomfortable to look in the mirror, go deep, and get to the next level. It helps to have a really supportive partner in life. The people that you surround yourself with will inevitably influence you. And some of them will try to hold you back because they're scared. The positive impact that Alex's new awareness has had on her business. You have to know what you want in order to create it. Once you know what you want, your brain looks for ways to make it happen. So many people really underestimate the power of their thoughts. Getting comfortable with your own beliefs. It's actually easier than you think to get published in magazines, as long as you do it the right way. It's all about standing in your space, staying in your lane, and being who you are. Giving yourself permission to be your best self. Bio: Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Alex’s design ethos focuses on the character of the houses and clients she works with, with an emphasis on simplicity and laid-back sophistication. She specializes in creating beautiful homes by the harbor or ocean, that her clients can love for many years. Alex’s previous experience in events and client services in global advertising firms has shaped how design projects are run at Vellum, and she is passionate about delivering a highly-organized and smooth experience for her clients. She loves to ‘surprise and delight’ her clients to keep things interesting too! A key value of Alex’s business is creating incredible relationships with clients, her suppliers, and trades, and she has garnered a reputation for being a force to be reckoned with. Alex works with people who are down-to-earth, high-net-worth Sydney-siders who have a desire to create a long-term home or holiday home. Vellum Interiors has been published in Australia House & Garden, InsideOut, Home Beautiful, and has been featured online in The Local Project, Homes to Love and Interiors Addict. Mentioned on the show: Steve Berson: The leader of Exciting Windows Book: Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Ren Miller (Design New Jersey) #12 Ashley Hotham-Cox #321 Shea McGee #236 and #270 Amber Lewis #169 and #184 Power Talk Friday Welcome! Today, Alex Gourlay joins us on the show. Eighteen months ago, Alex took LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaupher's Money Mindset and Sales Course. Then recently, she contacted LuAnn to say that she wanted to share what she's learned since taking the course, and the things she's done since then to build her business, with all of you, her designer colleagues out there. For Alex, this has all been around mindset and about breaking through some of the patterns that she noticed in herself. Listen in today, to hear what Alex has to share.

Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Alex always knew that she had potential, but she also knew that there was something holding her back.
  • Alex explains what she discovered about mindset issues and her business.
  • Some examples of the mindset issues that Alex has managed to overcome.
  • Two sentences that are really powerful informing how you think.
  • Being confident without acting like a jerk.
  • Growth mindset and fixed mindset.
  • The fear of failure often prevents people from attempting something new.
  • The key that has unlocked so many things for Alex.
  • It feels uncomfortable to look in the mirror, go deep, and get to the next level.
  • It helps to have a really supportive partner in life.
  • The people that you surround yourself with will inevitably influence you. And some of them will try to hold you back because they're scared.
  • The positive impact that Alex's new awareness has had on her business.
  • You have to know what you want in order to create it.
  • Once you know what you want, your brain looks for ways to make it happen.
  • So many people really underestimate the power of their thoughts.
  • Getting comfortable with your own beliefs.
  • It's actually easier than you think to get published in magazines, as long as you do it the right way.
  • It's all about standing in your space, staying in your lane, and being who you are.
  • Giving yourself permission to be your best self.

Bio:

Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more!

Alex’s design ethos focuses on the character of the houses and clients she works with, with an emphasis on simplicity and laid-back sophistication. She specializes in creating beautiful homes by the harbor or ocean, that her clients can love for many years. Alex’s previous experience in events and client services in global advertising firms has shaped how design projects are run at Vellum, and she is passionate about delivering a highly-organized and smooth experience for her clients. She loves to ‘surprise and delight’ her clients to keep things interesting too! A key value of Alex’s business is creating incredible relationships with clients, her suppliers, and trades, and she has garnered a reputation for being a force to be reckoned with.

Alex works with people who are down-to-earth, high-net-worth Sydney-siders who have a desire to create a long-term home or holiday home.

Vellum Interiors has been published in Australia House & Garden, InsideOut, Home Beautiful, and has been featured online in The Local Project, Homes to Love and Interiors Addict.

Mentioned on the show:

Steve Berson: The leader of Exciting Windows

Book: Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Amy Flurry #108 and #323

Ren Miller (Design New Jersey) #12

Ashley Hotham-Cox #321

Shea McGee #236 and #270

Amber Lewis #169 and #184

Power Talk Friday

]]> 4219 no 446: Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/446-power-talk-friday-jesse-lazarus-technology-innovations-in-the-design-industry Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Jesse Lazarus, the Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc. joins us on the show. Jesse is a deep thinker, with a BA in philosophy, and in his role, at Kravet he plays an integral part in the discussion around the technology and innovations that the company chooses to partner with and embrace. Jesse spearheads Kravet's strategic plans and he implements their new digital initiatives, which include e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and groundbreaking virtual design tools. Listen in today, to find out what Jesse has to share about the ongoing evolution of Kravet. Kravet is a smart company and they are guided by their mission to support you, the interior designer, in your efforts to run a really profitable business. Kravet has been a show sponsor since the beginning and, in today's episode, Jesse talks to LuAnn about how this happened. He discusses the way that technology has advanced during his time working in the interior design industry, and how the industry is changing, as a result. He also talks to us about Kravet's new showroom which opening up at the New York Design Center, the way that Kravet is evolving,  and where they are heading, in terms of innovation and technology. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: How LuAnn's collaboration with Kravet began. For Jesse, Kravet is a really great and innovative place to work. The criteria that Jesse uses to decide whether or not to partner with tech companies. One of Kravet's core mission values is to always be in support of interior designers. Although many of the new tech companies are not yet geared for the interior design industry, designers are now involved in helping those companies evolve to meet the needs of the industry. Kravet has been partnering with MyDoma Studio since the spring of 2019. Jesse discusses the reason for this partnership. Jesse discusses his perception of the two flavors of the marketplace. Being transparent and as accessible as possible is another one of Kravet's core mission values. There's so much research and product discovery happening online, currently. This has started feeding through into the design industry. The way that Jesse sees the evolution of interior design showrooms, going forward. The way that Jesse has built the digital experience into the concept for Kravet's new pilot showroom, as a subtle, supportive tool for designers. Kravet's pilot showroom is meant to be a relaxed workspace for collaboration, where designers can feel comfortable enough to come in and use their sample library as if it was their own. Kravet's pilot showroom is a way to honor their relationships with interior designers. Some new technological innovations that are destined to become a part of the design industry. Recently, designers have been collaborating to form buying groups. Jesse sees this as a natural evolutionary step. The evolution of technology has made it possible for designers to now work in any way that fits their individual business. Bio: Jesse Lazarus is Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc., a high-end home furnishings supplier to the interior design trade. In this role, Jesse plays an integral part in spearheading strategic plans and implementing new digital initiatives, including e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and innovative virtual design tools. He received his BA in Philosophy from the State University of Stony Brook and resides in West Sayville, NY with his wife and two daughters. Links: Website: Kravet Instagram: Kravet Facebook: Kravet Pinterest: Kravet Twitter: Kravet Mydoma Code for 10% of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim: AWDB10 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jesse Lazarus: Technology & Innovations in the Design Industry full 446 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Jesse Lazarus, the Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc. joins us on the show. Jesse is a deep thinker, with a BA in philosophy, and in his role, at Kravet he plays an integral part in the discussion... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Jesse Lazarus, the Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc. joins us on the show. Jesse is a deep thinker, with a BA in philosophy, and in his role, at Kravet he plays an integral part in the discussion around the technology and innovations that the company chooses to partner with and embrace. Jesse spearheads Kravet's strategic plans and he implements their new digital initiatives, which include e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and groundbreaking virtual design tools. Listen in today, to find out what Jesse has to share about the ongoing evolution of Kravet. Kravet is a smart company and they are guided by their mission to support you, the interior designer, in your efforts to run a really profitable business. Kravet has been a show sponsor since the beginning and, in today's episode, Jesse talks to LuAnn about how this happened. He discusses the way that technology has advanced during his time working in the interior design industry, and how the industry is changing, as a result. He also talks to us about Kravet's new showroom which opening up at the New York Design Center, the way that Kravet is evolving,  and where they are heading, in terms of innovation and technology. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: How LuAnn's collaboration with Kravet began. For Jesse, Kravet is a really great and innovative place to work. The criteria that Jesse uses to decide whether or not to partner with tech companies. One of Kravet's core mission values is to always be in support of interior designers. Although many of the new tech companies are not yet geared for the interior design industry, designers are now involved in helping those companies evolve to meet the needs of the industry. Kravet has been partnering with MyDoma Studio since the spring of 2019. Jesse discusses the reason for this partnership. Jesse discusses his perception of the two flavors of the marketplace. Being transparent and as accessible as possible is another one of Kravet's core mission values. There's so much research and product discovery happening online, currently. This has started feeding through into the design industry. The way that Jesse sees the evolution of interior design showrooms, going forward. The way that Jesse has built the digital experience into the concept for Kravet's new pilot showroom, as a subtle, supportive tool for designers. Kravet's pilot showroom is meant to be a relaxed workspace for collaboration, where designers can feel comfortable enough to come in and use their sample library as if it was their own. Kravet's pilot showroom is a way to honor their relationships with interior designers. Some new technological innovations that are destined to become a part of the design industry. Recently, designers have been collaborating to form buying groups. Jesse sees this as a natural evolutionary step. The evolution of technology has made it possible for designers to now work in any way that fits their individual business. Bio: Jesse Lazarus is Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc., a high-end home furnishings supplier to the interior design trade. In this role, Jesse plays an integral part in spearheading strategic plans and implementing new digital initiatives, including e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and innovative virtual design tools. He received his BA in Philosophy from the State University of Stony Brook and resides in West Sayville, NY with his wife and two daughters. Links: Website: Kravet Instagram: Kravet Facebook: Kravet Pinterest: Kravet Twitter: Kravet Mydoma Code for 10% of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim: AWDB10 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Jesse Lazarus, the Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc. joins us on the show. Jesse is a deep thinker, with a BA in philosophy, and in his role, at Kravet he plays an integral part in the discussion around the technology and innovations that the company chooses to partner with and embrace. Jesse spearheads Kravet's strategic plans and he implements their new digital initiatives, which include e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and groundbreaking virtual design tools. Listen in today, to find out what Jesse has to share about the ongoing evolution of Kravet.

Kravet is a smart company and they are guided by their mission to support you, the interior designer, in your efforts to run a really profitable business. Kravet has been a show sponsor since the beginning and, in today's episode, Jesse talks to LuAnn about how this happened. He discusses the way that technology has advanced during his time working in the interior design industry, and how the industry is changing, as a result. He also talks to us about Kravet's new showroom which opening up at the New York Design Center, the way that Kravet is evolving,  and where they are heading, in terms of innovation and technology. Tune in now for more!

Show Highlights:

  • How LuAnn's collaboration with Kravet began.
  • For Jesse, Kravet is a really great and innovative place to work.
  • The criteria that Jesse uses to decide whether or not to partner with tech companies.
  • One of Kravet's core mission values is to always be in support of interior designers.
  • Although many of the new tech companies are not yet geared for the interior design industry, designers are now involved in helping those companies evolve to meet the needs of the industry.
  • Kravet has been partnering with MyDoma Studio since the spring of 2019. Jesse discusses the reason for this partnership.
  • Jesse discusses his perception of the two flavors of the marketplace.
  • Being transparent and as accessible as possible is another one of Kravet's core mission values.
  • There's so much research and product discovery happening online, currently. This has started feeding through into the design industry.
  • The way that Jesse sees the evolution of interior design showrooms, going forward.
  • The way that Jesse has built the digital experience into the concept for Kravet's new pilot showroom, as a subtle, supportive tool for designers.
  • Kravet's pilot showroom is meant to be a relaxed workspace for collaboration, where designers can feel comfortable enough to come in and use their sample library as if it was their own.
  • Kravet's pilot showroom is a way to honor their relationships with interior designers.
  • Some new technological innovations that are destined to become a part of the design industry.
  • Recently, designers have been collaborating to form buying groups. Jesse sees this as a natural evolutionary step.
  • The evolution of technology has made it possible for designers to now work in any way that fits their individual business.

Bio:

Jesse Lazarus is Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc., a high-end home furnishings supplier to the interior design trade. In this role, Jesse plays an integral part in spearheading strategic plans and implementing new digital initiatives, including e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and innovative virtual design tools. He received his BA in Philosophy from the State University of Stony Brook and resides in West Sayville, NY with his wife and two daughters.

Links:

Website: Kravet

Instagram: Kravet

Facebook: Kravet

Pinterest: Kravet

Twitter: Kravet

Mydoma

Code for 10% of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim: AWDB10

]]> 4605 no 445: Tori Alexander: Her Production List Increases Efficiency and Profits http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/445-tori-alexander-her-production-list-increases-efficiency-and-profits Welcome to the show! We have Tori Alexander with us today. Tori is a Nashville native and she's a Harpeth Hall alumna with a B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia. After graduating, Tori set herself apart as a designer with her uniquely broad understanding of architecture, while honing her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville. In 2012, Tori launched her own company, Alexander Interiors, in Sacramento California, when her husband's career took their family there. Then they returned to Nashville in 2016 and Tori started her business all over again. In today's episode, she talks to us about the systems she uses to keep her projects extremely well organized. And she mentions how moving and starting over twice, and experiencing a different culture and aesthetic, really broadened her design skills and helped her become a better businesswoman. Listen in today, to find out more! Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Tori explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Tori’s credentials are truly impressive. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. Tune in today, to hear what Tori has to share about how to run a design-build project. Show Highlights: Tori explains where to start with a design-build project. Implementing the production list was a turning point in Tori's business. It has led to more opportunities, such as management and construction management of larger projects. Running a business in California was a constant uphill battle for Tori and this really helped her to develop an edge. Tori talks about the production list and what it entails. The management tool that has really improved the profitability of Tori's business. Tori has four categories of projects: Renovation, full design, e-design, and consulting. Projects have to make sense for Tori, first financially and then creatively. If they don't fit any of these categories, she turns them down. Tori explains the kind of project that is not a good fit for her. The way that Tori packages her consultation times. Laying the seeds in the right places. A production list documents every single task that needs to be done, no matter how large or small. How trackable goals tie into the production list. Implementing separate cross-checks for completion and accuracy. Coming up with systems to prevent unforeseen installation problems from arising. Tori shares some of the checklists that she uses. Using checklists helps to bring calmness to a potentially chaotic industry. Rewarding the team at the end of a project for a job well done.   Tori Alexander- Bio Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Alexander explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Alexander’s credentials are impressive. The Nashville native and Harpeth Hall alumna earned her B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from The University of Georgia’s esteemed program in 2008. Upon graduating, she continued to hone her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville, setting herself apart as a designer with a uniquely extensive understanding of architecture. In 2012, her husband’s career took Alexander to Sacramento, Ca., where she launched her own design company, Alexander Interiors. “I think being in a new and unfamiliar city encouraged me to finally take the leap and begin working for myself,” Alexander shares. Since the launch, clients have eagerly sought out Alexander’s impeccable expertise for their own homes. Describing her style as fresh and classic all at once, Alexander creates timeless interiors with layers of color, texture, and pattern. “I love a good pattern,” Alexander says. “That’s what I feel truly sets me apart — my ability to pair pattern on pattern within the same space.” In 2016, Alexander brought her thriving business back home to Nashville – a trending city with an ever-growing design scene. But with years of experience in California and clients across the country, Alexander offers a unique perspective for clients. “I’ve been able to draw inspiration from the quirks and trends in various regions and cities,” Alexander explains. Or sometimes, the inspiration is close to home – like an antique bracelet from her grandmother serving as the muse for a hand-painted ceiling in a charming nursery. Alexander’s creativity and heart help give clients unforgettable, one-of-a-kind spaces they can live in. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. To learn more, visit Alexander Interiors.  Links: Alexander Interiors Instagram: Alexander Interiors Nashville Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat. if you are not sure if it’s right or you—email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put powertalkfriday LV in the subject line, and give LuAnn your phone number. She will call you and together you'll see if this one-day event will benefit you and your business.  This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Tue, 09 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Tori Alexander: Her Production List Increases Efficiency and Profits full 445 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have Tori Alexander with us today. Tori is a Nashville native and she's a Harpeth Hall alumna with a B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia. After graduating, Tori set herself apart as a designer with... Welcome to the show! We have Tori Alexander with us today. Tori is a Nashville native and she's a Harpeth Hall alumna with a B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia. After graduating, Tori set herself apart as a designer with her uniquely broad understanding of architecture, while honing her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville. In 2012, Tori launched her own company, Alexander Interiors, in Sacramento California, when her husband's career took their family there. Then they returned to Nashville in 2016 and Tori started her business all over again. In today's episode, she talks to us about the systems she uses to keep her projects extremely well organized. And she mentions how moving and starting over twice, and experiencing a different culture and aesthetic, really broadened her design skills and helped her become a better businesswoman. Listen in today, to find out more! Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Tori explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Tori’s credentials are truly impressive. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. Tune in today, to hear what Tori has to share about how to run a design-build project. Show Highlights: Tori explains where to start with a design-build project. Implementing the production list was a turning point in Tori's business. It has led to more opportunities, such as management and construction management of larger projects. Running a business in California was a constant uphill battle for Tori and this really helped her to develop an edge. Tori talks about the production list and what it entails. The management tool that has really improved the profitability of Tori's business. Tori has four categories of projects: Renovation, full design, e-design, and consulting. Projects have to make sense for Tori, first financially and then creatively. If they don't fit any of these categories, she turns them down. Tori explains the kind of project that is not a good fit for her. The way that Tori packages her consultation times. Laying the seeds in the right places. A production list documents every single task that needs to be done, no matter how large or small. How trackable goals tie into the production list. Implementing separate cross-checks for completion and accuracy. Coming up with systems to prevent unforeseen installation problems from arising. Tori shares some of the checklists that she uses. Using checklists helps to bring calmness to a potentially chaotic industry. Rewarding the team at the end of a project for a job well done.   Tori Alexander- Bio Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Alexander explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Alexander’s credentials are impressive. The Nashville native and Harpeth Hall alumna earned her B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from The University of Georgia’s esteemed program in 2008. Upon graduating, she continued to hone her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville, setting herself apart as a designer with a uniquely extensive understanding of architecture. In 2012, her husband’s career took Alexander to Sacramento, Ca., where she launched her own design company, Alexander Interiors. “I think being in a new and unfamiliar city encouraged me to finally take the leap and begin working for myself,” Alexander shares. Since the launch, clients have eagerly sought out Alexander’s impeccable expertise for their own homes. Describing her style as fresh and classic all at once, Alexander creates timeless interiors with layers of color, texture, and pattern. “I love a good pattern,” Alexander says. “That’s what I feel truly sets me apart — my ability to pair pattern on pattern within the same space.” In 2016, Alexander brought her thriving business back home to Nashville – a trending city with an ever-growing design scene. But with years of experience in California and clients across the country, Alexander offers a unique perspective for clients. “I’ve been able to draw inspiration from the quirks and trends in various regions and cities,” Alexander explains. Or sometimes, the inspiration is close to home – like an antique bracelet from her grandmother serving as the muse for a hand-painted ceiling in a charming nursery. Alexander’s creativity and heart help give clients unforgettable, one-of-a-kind spaces they can live in. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. To learn more, visit Alexander Interiors.  Links: Alexander Interiors Instagram: Alexander Interiors Nashville Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat. if you are not sure if it’s right or you—email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put powertalkfriday LV in the subject line, and give LuAnn your phone number. She will call you and together you'll see if this one-day event will benefit you and your business.  This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Welcome to the show! We have Tori Alexander with us today. Tori is a Nashville native and she's a Harpeth Hall alumna with a B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia. After graduating, Tori set herself apart as a designer with her uniquely broad understanding of architecture, while honing her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville.

In 2012, Tori launched her own company, Alexander Interiors, in Sacramento California, when her husband's career took their family there. Then they returned to Nashville in 2016 and Tori started her business all over again. In today's episode, she talks to us about the systems she uses to keep her projects extremely well organized. And she mentions how moving and starting over twice, and experiencing a different culture and aesthetic, really broadened her design skills and helped her become a better businesswoman. Listen in today, to find out more!

Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Tori explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Tori’s credentials are truly impressive. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. Tune in today, to hear what Tori has to share about how to run a design-build project.

Show Highlights:

  • Tori explains where to start with a design-build project.
  • Implementing the production list was a turning point in Tori's business. It has led to more opportunities, such as management and construction management of larger projects.
  • Running a business in California was a constant uphill battle for Tori and this really helped her to develop an edge.
  • Tori talks about the production list and what it entails.
  • The management tool that has really improved the profitability of Tori's business.
  • Tori has four categories of projects: Renovation, full design, e-design, and consulting.
  • Projects have to make sense for Tori, first financially and then creatively. If they don't fit any of these categories, she turns them down.
  • Tori explains the kind of project that is not a good fit for her.
  • The way that Tori packages her consultation times.
  • Laying the seeds in the right places.
  • A production list documents every single task that needs to be done, no matter how large or small.
  • How trackable goals tie into the production list.
  • Implementing separate cross-checks for completion and accuracy.
  • Coming up with systems to prevent unforeseen installation problems from arising.
  • Tori shares some of the checklists that she uses. Using checklists helps to bring calmness to a potentially chaotic industry.
  • Rewarding the team at the end of a project for a job well done.

 

Tori Alexander- Bio

Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Alexander explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Alexander’s credentials are impressive. The Nashville native and Harpeth Hall alumna earned her B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from The University of Georgia’s esteemed program in 2008. Upon graduating, she continued to hone her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville, setting herself apart as a designer with a uniquely extensive understanding of architecture. In 2012, her husband’s career took Alexander to Sacramento, Ca., where she launched her own design company, Alexander Interiors. “I think being in a new and unfamiliar city encouraged me to finally take the leap and begin working for myself,” Alexander shares. Since the launch, clients have eagerly sought out Alexander’s impeccable expertise for their own homes. Describing her style as fresh and classic all at once, Alexander creates timeless interiors with layers of color, texture, and pattern. “I love a good pattern,” Alexander says. “That’s what I feel truly sets me apart — my ability to pair pattern on pattern within the same space.” In 2016, Alexander brought her thriving business back home to Nashville – a trending city with an ever-growing design scene. But with years of experience in California and clients across the country, Alexander offers a unique perspective for clients. “I’ve been able to draw inspiration from the quirks and trends in various regions and cities,” Alexander explains. Or sometimes, the inspiration is close to home – like an antique bracelet from her grandmother serving as the muse for a hand-painted ceiling in a charming nursery. Alexander’s creativity and heart help give clients unforgettable, one-of-a-kind spaces they can live in. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. To learn more, visit Alexander Interiors. 

Links:

Alexander Interiors

Instagram: Alexander Interiors Nashville

Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat.

if you are not sure if it’s right or you—email LuAnn at info@luannnigara.com, put powertalkfriday LV in the subject line, and give LuAnn your phone number. She will call you and together you'll see if this one-day event will benefit you and your business. 

This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio.

To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999.

]]> 5006 no 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/444-power-talk-friday-sarah-winchester-talking-about-copyright-and-usage-with-an-interiors-photographer Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Sarah Winchester with us today! Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Social media has really raised the bar for photographers over the last few years, and as a result, the world of interiors photography has been getting a lot of recognition. So investing in an excellent professional photographer has become a valuable way for new interior designers to become known. In today's episode, Sarah talks to us about styling, copyright, what it takes to be a great interiors photographer, and she also explains what you, as an interior designer, need to look for when hiring a photographer. Listen in today, to get Sarah's practical tips and advice for showing yourself in the way that you want to be seen. Raised in Atlanta, GA Sarah brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Sarah believes that you have to have a script, or a shot list to know where you're going, where to start and to keep things organized. Amazing photographs are essential for interior designers. Social media has raised the bar for photographers. Finding the right photographer. Photographic shoots are creative and fun, and also exhausting! What to look out for when choosing a photographer who will be the right fit. Getting as much out of a photo shoot as you possibly can. Copyright versus usage right... it can all be very confusing. Paying for usage rights for the images you've shared. Having the conversation about who owns the rights to the images on social media. There's safety in integrity so it's important to be clear right from the beginning. Partnering with local brands in order to style a project. Developing relationships with local businesses and highlighting their products in your photo shoots. Using images to sell a feeling. Bio: Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography.  Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world. Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work. Links: Website: Sarah Winchester Studios Instagram: Sarah_W_Studios Austin Mill PR Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Stephen Karlisch # 369 David Livingstone # 51 Raquel Langworthy # 343 Sarah Winchester Studios - Pitch for LuAnne Nigara Podcast About Sarah Winchester Sarah is a Boston based photographer who shoots all over the country, specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work. After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world. Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. She also creates a series of fine art photography stemming from a passion for art and travel; creating beautiful images to live with and love. Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work. OVERVIEW: PHOTOGRAPHERS - How to choose one? What sets me apart? In an increasingly growing field, how should a designer choose? In turn, how can a photographer set him or herself apart? (I know lots of interiors photographers who listen to the podcast) SOCIAL MEDIA - Still photography, moving images, videos Social Media v. Website/Portfolio Instagram shooting tips. IPhone v. Professional Engagement, Stories, connecting with followers. CONTENT - Still photography, moving images, videos Should you be doing “more?” What does that “more” look like? Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where traditional print media can’t go COPYRIGHT - Who “owns” the images Copy Right v. Usage Rights 2 - 3 party usage - reduced rate “Other Parties” wishing to use the photos. Publications, vendors, etc. STYLING - The discussion continued… Such an important aspect of interiors photography. Could parent more discussion. Photographer as stylist…is this the new norm? Perhaps, but only if it fits the project and photographer. Partnering with a local business. Helps the shoot, the homeowner often buys the pieces and helps the designer finish out the project. I often buy or borrow, books, accessories, home goods, etc. for a shoot and let the homeowner buy the products from a shoot…unless they are from my personal collection. - The homeowner gets free shopping and styling ART + ART SOURCING Not all spaces and projects have amazing art budgets, but art is a crucial part of a finished project and creating beautiful, finished photographs. Relationship with art consultants. Finding new a artist who will lend work. A personal passion: I love finding new artists and helping them. GETTING PUBLISHED Writers - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people) Develop a relationship with writers. They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects. Local/Regional press and print is still amazing. Online features - .com arm of publications, blogs. Great in that things can go viral. Also, the reason why it is important to credit everyone when you post things. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 IN DEPTH BREAK DOWN Photographers - How to choose one? - I come from a fine art/art history background that is where I start, but I also have some commercial experience so that always creeps in, but first and foremost I LOVE creating a great editorial type shot. One that will draw the viewer into the space. I love the challenge of creating beautiful images but also the effectiveness of conveying the “information” the designer needs/wants to parlay. - Photographers - Just like designers, there is the right fit for you. What is their photographic style, their personality, do they assist in styling, and do they fit your budget and meet or talk to them in person. Crowded field of photographers - photography is becoming more and more accessible which makes the field larger. I say great. A rising tide lifts all boats. - Look closely at the photographer's portfolio. The feel, the lighting, the angles. How do you want your work to look? Just like when people choose a designer that best suits their needs and style. - Photo shoots are long hard days…sometimes overnight trips. You better like who you are working with and shouldn’t it be fun? They should be creatively fulfilling days that give you the final images that perfectly show your work and you. - Trust the photographer but also speak up. If the leather straps on a chair really speak to your work and your design choices, make sure the photographer gets those leather straps! Or tile or built-in design. - This is the time to get the project the way you want it because when you walk out the door and close it behind you that is it. What do you have left of the SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 project? A photo shoot is a chance to get the project the way you want it and preserve it for your portfolio. SOCIAL MEDIA - Consulting - Social Media v. Website/Portfolio - How to use Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. Which platform is the best for you? To expand upon what David Livingston talked about in Episode 51 when talking bout Houzz. Where should designers be? - How to use it for your brand/company - for most in our business Instagram is THE tool to use. I have a little PDF I like to share with my clients as an “added value.” - Instagram shooting tips. I like giving my clients a little cheat sheet on how to use their iPhone and Instagram to their best of their ability. The iPhone is a very powerful camera. It kills me when people don’t use it to the best of their ability. I also love consulting new designers in this. They may only have the budget to hire me for that one great room they “designed to completion” so I love teaching photography 101 so they can use their iPhone to create content and images for social media. For website and portfolio purported I still advice to use a true professional. - Instagram Engagement Community Building, give credit. Reply to comments, DM’s, etc Pose questions. Ask for advice. - Posts v. Stories - Authenticity - “Behind the curtain”. About you as a creative/business owner. Photos of travels Videos - real life, behind the scenes. Show your personality SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 - Give Credit - It takes a lot of people to make a beautiful space and then the image that represents that space. It makes you look better to give credit where credit is due and helps with engagement. The more the merrier! Designer, architect, Builder, Stylist, Photographer. Try to credit all the people involved. It only makes you look better and it spreads the love/influence. GIFFS and VIDEOS - Giffs and video type images. I have been having fun creating gifts and stop motion images. Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where traditional print media can’t go If your photographer focuses on only still, the iPhone can so much. Time-lapse, stop motion, videos, etc. COPYRIGHT - Who “owns” the images. Such a huge topic these days with photo sharing and the monetizing of Instagram, shopping, etc. It seems to be a touchy subject but an important one. - What is the difference between usage rights and copyrights? It is my job a the photographer to educate the designer on the differences. I don’t expect the designer to know this. - When I was on salary for a large corporation they “owned” all the images I took. Some of my photographs were used in national ad campaigned printed in the likes of Sports Illustrated and This Old House, but I did not receive and usage payment form my company. That was our agreement. Totally fine as I was a salaried employee and that was a part of my job description. - Now running my own studio I “own” all my images. I maintain the copyright. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 The question may be raised from a designer ”but that is my work, my project.” Absolutely. I have been hired for my talents, my brain juice, on how to create a photograph to best showcase that work. That creation…that photograph is my work, therefore the creator maintains the copyright. - Usage Rights - When I shoot for a designer they have unlimited “usage rights” to the images. My wording goes: Unlimited digital and print usage is granted to the client. Any editorial rights (digital and print) rights should be settled between Sarah Winchester Studios LLC and the publisher. Images and their rights usage are not transferable. Rights usage by other parties may be obtained for a fee per image. Sarah Winchester Studios LLC is the sole copyright owner (only usage rights is being granted) All photography to be credited: Sarah M. Winchester - “Other parties” includes, builders, architects, lighting companies, wallpaper, furniture company, etc who see the images and then wants to use it for an ad campaign or marketing tool they need to contact me for a usage fee. Basically, if they are going to use my image to sell their product. They are usually more than happy to and understand this industry standard. Plus it is far more economical than producing their own photo shoots. I had a wonderful recent experience where a project for my beloved client Cecilia Walker was featured on domino.com (a connection through written Jaci Conry). Cecilia had used a lot of Hudson Valley lighting fixtures. They then bought some usage rights from me and ended up using the images in their national advertising campaign all over their website and in print publications like House Beautiful. Conversely, I had a company see a project in a publication, asked to buy some usage but the designer had such a terrible time dealing with them she asked that I not. I of course obliged. My relationship with the designer is worth much more than the money I would have gotten from this other party. I always ask…and get the permission of the homeowner. So many moving parts involved, but I find being open and transparent is the best way and I pride myself in being clear and honest. - 2 - 3 Companies Usage SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 Often times the designer, builder and architect all want photos of a project. For this, I offer a slightly reduced “combined rate” for the shoot. So the overall cost of the shoot might be more because there are more people “using” the images, but when split 3 ways is less expensive for each party than if they each hired me separately. - If copyrights are wanting to be purchased it usually is a much higher cost because I am basically giving away all my rights to that image I created. That case usually only comes up when a photographer is hired by Architectural Digest or some major print publication but even then that is not always the case. I heard Photographer Lynsey Adario who shoots for the NY Times, National Geographic, etc. speak and she said she shoots as a freelancer for that reason. So she owns the copyrights to her photographs. STYLING - Styling Assistance - I have rolled it into my services because I love it and I am good at it. This was covered greatly in the Raquel Langworthy podcast and I thought she did an amazing job conveying the differences between stying assistance and hiring a professional stylist. It's a new way people are looking at their photographers. Majority of my clients do not have the budget to hire amazing stylists like Stacy Kunstel or Charlotte Safavi. That is usually a publication level shoot. - I have relationships with various studios and shops and after scouting with gather information on colors, flowers, accessories, books needed. I borrow a ton of stuff on my own. Inevitably the homeowner buys half the stuff we bring. Win-win for all. - If the homeowner isn’t on set (which is usually the case and the preferred option) we send photos and pricing while on a shoot for approval. - A great way for the designer to finish out the project. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 - I know what it “photogenic” I know what has been shot to death. (Ahem…Tom Ford book)I also like that “control” over the shoot. It makes us all look better. - STORY: I recently shot a gorgeous old brownstone in historic Beacon Hill, the designer hired me to style and shoot the project. I hired my own styling assistant. We spent an entire day styling and then we shot for two days. I helped source art ART - Art sourcing - Art is SUPER important. This is also a personal passion of mine with my Art History major, I love finding new artist, I have a few art consultants I work with who lend me work. One of whom I am giving a Design Week talk with about Art + Design. To Stephen Karlisch point we can hold art up. No need to bang holes in that Phillip Jeffery wallpaper. And sometimes the homeowner ends up buying a piece. Win-win! GETTING PUBLISHED - Writers!!! - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people), I have loved developing relationship with writers. They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects. - Local/Regional press and print is still amazing - We all want national press of course but regional print has amazon coverage - New England Home, Newspaper magazine, Modern Luxury, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 WWW.SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer full 444 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Sarah Winchester with us today! Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Social media has really raised the bar for photographers over the last few years, and as a... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Sarah Winchester with us today! Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Social media has really raised the bar for photographers over the last few years, and as a result, the world of interiors photography has been getting a lot of recognition. So investing in an excellent professional photographer has become a valuable way for new interior designers to become known. In today's episode, Sarah talks to us about styling, copyright, what it takes to be a great interiors photographer, and she also explains what you, as an interior designer, need to look for when hiring a photographer. Listen in today, to get Sarah's practical tips and advice for showing yourself in the way that you want to be seen. Raised in Atlanta, GA Sarah brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Sarah believes that you have to have a script, or a shot list to know where you're going, where to start and to keep things organized. Amazing photographs are essential for interior designers. Social media has raised the bar for photographers. Finding the right photographer. Photographic shoots are creative and fun, and also exhausting! What to look out for when choosing a photographer who will be the right fit. Getting as much out of a photo shoot as you possibly can. Copyright versus usage right... it can all be very confusing. Paying for usage rights for the images you've shared. Having the conversation about who owns the rights to the images on social media. There's safety in integrity so it's important to be clear right from the beginning. Partnering with local brands in order to style a project. Developing relationships with local businesses and highlighting their products in your photo shoots. Using images to sell a feeling. Bio: Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography.  Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world. Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work. Links: Website: Sarah Winchester Studios Instagram: Sarah_W_Studios Austin Mill PR Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Stephen Karlisch # 369 David Livingstone # 51 Raquel Langworthy # 343 Sarah Winchester Studios - Pitch for LuAnne Nigara Podcast About Sarah Winchester Sarah is a Boston based photographer who shoots all over the country, specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work. After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world. Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. She also creates a series of fine art photography stemming from a passion for art and travel; creating beautiful images to live with and love. Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work. OVERVIEW: PHOTOGRAPHERS - How to choose one? What sets me apart? In an increasingly growing field, how should a designer choose? In turn, how can a photographer set him or herself apart? (I know lots of interiors photographers who listen to the podcast) SOCIAL MEDIA - Still photography, moving images, videos Social Media v. Website/Portfolio Instagram shooting tips. IPhone v. Professional Engagement, Stories, connecting with followers. CONTENT - Still photography, moving images, videos Should you be doing “more?” What does that “more” look like? Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where traditional print media can’t go COPYRIGHT - Who “owns” the images Copy Right v. Usage Rights 2 - 3 party usage - reduced rate “Other Parties” wishing to use the photos. Publications, vendors, etc. STYLING - The discussion continued… Such an important aspect of interiors photography. Could parent more discussion. Photographer as stylist…is this the new norm? Perhaps, but only if it fits the project and photographer. Partnering with a local business. Helps the shoot, the homeowner often buys the pieces and helps the designer finish out the project. I often buy or borrow, books, accessories, home goods, etc. for a shoot and let the homeowner buy the products from a shoot…unless they are from my personal collection. - The homeowner gets free shopping and styling ART + ART SOURCING Not all spaces and projects have amazing art budgets, but art is a crucial part of a finished project and creating beautiful, finished photographs. Relationship with art consultants. Finding new a artist who will lend work. A personal passion: I love finding new artists and helping them. GETTING PUBLISHED Writers - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people) Develop a relationship with writers. They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects. Local/Regional press and print is still amazing. Online features - .com arm of publications, blogs. Great in that things can go viral. Also, the reason why it is important to credit everyone when you post things. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 IN DEPTH BREAK DOWN Photographers - How to choose one? - I come from a fine art/art history background that is where I start, but I also have some commercial experience so that always creeps in, but first and foremost I LOVE creating a great editorial type shot. One that will draw the viewer into the space. I love the challenge of creating beautiful images but also the effectiveness of conveying the “information” the designer needs/wants to parlay. - Photographers - Just like designers, there is the right fit for you. What is their photographic style, their personality, do they assist in styling, and do they fit your budget and meet or talk to them in person. Crowded field of photographers - photography is becoming more and more accessible which makes the field larger. I say great. A rising tide lifts all boats. - Look closely at the photographer's portfolio. The feel, the lighting, the angles. How do you want your work to look? Just like when people choose a designer that best suits their needs and style. - Photo shoots are long hard days…sometimes overnight trips. You better like who you are working with and shouldn’t it be fun? They should be creatively fulfilling days that give you the final images that perfectly show your work and you. - Trust the photographer but also speak up. If the leather straps on a chair really speak to your work and your design choices, make sure the photographer gets those leather straps! Or tile or built-in design. - This is the time to get the project the way you want it because when you walk out the door and close it behind you that is it. What do you have left of the SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 project? A photo shoot is a chance to get the project the way you want it and preserve it for your portfolio. SOCIAL MEDIA - Consulting - Social Media v. Website/Portfolio - How to use Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. Which platform is the best for you? To expand upon what David Livingston talked about in Episode 51 when talking bout Houzz. Where should designers be? - How to use it for your brand/company - for most in our business Instagram is THE tool to use. I have a little PDF I like to share with my clients as an “added value.” - Instagram shooting tips. I like giving my clients a little cheat sheet on how to use their iPhone and Instagram to their best of their ability. The iPhone is a very powerful camera. It kills me when people don’t use it to the best of their ability. I also love consulting new designers in this. They may only have the budget to hire me for that one great room they “designed to completion” so I love teaching photography 101 so they can use their iPhone to create content and images for social media. For website and portfolio purported I still advice to use a true professional. - Instagram Engagement Community Building, give credit. Reply to comments, DM’s, etc Pose questions. Ask for advice. - Posts v. Stories - Authenticity - “Behind the curtain”. About you as a creative/business owner. Photos of travels Videos - real life, behind the scenes. Show your personality SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 - Give Credit - It takes a lot of people to make a beautiful space and then the image that represents that space. It makes you look better to give credit where credit is due and helps with engagement. The more the merrier! Designer, architect, Builder, Stylist, Photographer. Try to credit all the people involved. It only makes you look better and it spreads the love/influence. GIFFS and VIDEOS - Giffs and video type images. I have been having fun creating gifts and stop motion images. Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where traditional print media can’t go If your photographer focuses on only still, the iPhone can so much. Time-lapse, stop motion, videos, etc. COPYRIGHT - Who “owns” the images. Such a huge topic these days with photo sharing and the monetizing of Instagram, shopping, etc. It seems to be a touchy subject but an important one. - What is the difference between usage rights and copyrights? It is my job a the photographer to educate the designer on the differences. I don’t expect the designer to know this. - When I was on salary for a large corporation they “owned” all the images I took. Some of my photographs were used in national ad campaigned printed in the likes of Sports Illustrated and This Old House, but I did not receive and usage payment form my company. That was our agreement. Totally fine as I was a salaried employee and that was a part of my job description. - Now running my own studio I “own” all my images. I maintain the copyright. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 The question may be raised from a designer ”but that is my work, my project.” Absolutely. I have been hired for my talents, my brain juice, on how to create a photograph to best showcase that work. That creation…that photograph is my work, therefore the creator maintains the copyright. - Usage Rights - When I shoot for a designer they have unlimited “usage rights” to the images. My wording goes: Unlimited digital and print usage is granted to the client. Any editorial rights (digital and print) rights should be settled between Sarah Winchester Studios LLC and the publisher. Images and their rights usage are not transferable. Rights usage by other parties may be obtained for a fee per image. Sarah Winchester Studios LLC is the sole copyright owner (only usage rights is being granted) All photography to be credited: Sarah M. Winchester - “Other parties” includes, builders, architects, lighting companies, wallpaper, furniture company, etc who see the images and then wants to use it for an ad campaign or marketing tool they need to contact me for a usage fee. Basically, if they are going to use my image to sell their product. They are usually more than happy to and understand this industry standard. Plus it is far more economical than producing their own photo shoots. I had a wonderful recent experience where a project for my beloved client Cecilia Walker was featured on domino.com (a connection through written Jaci Conry). Cecilia had used a lot of Hudson Valley lighting fixtures. They then bought some usage rights from me and ended up using the images in their national advertising campaign all over their website and in print publications like House Beautiful. Conversely, I had a company see a project in a publication, asked to buy some usage but the designer had such a terrible time dealing with them she asked that I not. I of course obliged. My relationship with the designer is worth much more than the money I would have gotten from this other party. I always ask…and get the permission of the homeowner. So many moving parts involved, but I find being open and transparent is the best way and I pride myself in being clear and honest. - 2 - 3 Companies Usage SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 Often times the designer, builder and architect all want photos of a project. For this, I offer a slightly reduced “combined rate” for the shoot. So the overall cost of the shoot might be more because there are more people “using” the images, but when split 3 ways is less expensive for each party than if they each hired me separately. - If copyrights are wanting to be purchased it usually is a much higher cost because I am basically giving away all my rights to that image I created. That case usually only comes up when a photographer is hired by Architectural Digest or some major print publication but even then that is not always the case. I heard Photographer Lynsey Adario who shoots for the NY Times, National Geographic, etc. speak and she said she shoots as a freelancer for that reason. So she owns the copyrights to her photographs. STYLING - Styling Assistance - I have rolled it into my services because I love it and I am good at it. This was covered greatly in the Raquel Langworthy podcast and I thought she did an amazing job conveying the differences between stying assistance and hiring a professional stylist. It's a new way people are looking at their photographers. Majority of my clients do not have the budget to hire amazing stylists like Stacy Kunstel or Charlotte Safavi. That is usually a publication level shoot. - I have relationships with various studios and shops and after scouting with gather information on colors, flowers, accessories, books needed. I borrow a ton of stuff on my own. Inevitably the homeowner buys half the stuff we bring. Win-win for all. - If the homeowner isn’t on set (which is usually the case and the preferred option) we send photos and pricing while on a shoot for approval. - A great way for the designer to finish out the project. SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 - I know what it “photogenic” I know what has been shot to death. (Ahem…Tom Ford book)I also like that “control” over the shoot. It makes us all look better. - STORY: I recently shot a gorgeous old brownstone in historic Beacon Hill, the designer hired me to style and shoot the project. I hired my own styling assistant. We spent an entire day styling and then we shot for two days. I helped source art ART - Art sourcing - Art is SUPER important. This is also a personal passion of mine with my Art History major, I love finding new artist, I have a few art consultants I work with who lend me work. One of whom I am giving a Design Week talk with about Art + Design. To Stephen Karlisch point we can hold art up. No need to bang holes in that Phillip Jeffery wallpaper. And sometimes the homeowner ends up buying a piece. Win-win! GETTING PUBLISHED - Writers!!! - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people), I have loved developing relationship with writers. They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects. - Local/Regional press and print is still amazing - We all want national press of course but regional print has amazon coverage - New England Home, Newspaper magazine, Modern Luxury, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 WWW.SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Sarah Winchester with us today! Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Social media has really raised the bar for photographers over the last few years, and as a result, the world of interiors photography has been getting a lot of recognition. So investing in an excellent professional photographer has become a valuable way for new interior designers to become known. In today's episode, Sarah talks to us about styling, copyright, what it takes to be a great interiors photographer, and she also explains what you, as an interior designer, need to look for when hiring a photographer. Listen in today, to get Sarah's practical tips and advice for showing yourself in the way that you want to be seen.

Raised in Atlanta, GA Sarah brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy. Tune in now for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Sarah believes that you have to have a script, or a shot list to know where you're going, where to start and to keep things organized.
  • Amazing photographs are essential for interior designers.
  • Social media has raised the bar for photographers.
  • Finding the right photographer.
  • Photographic shoots are creative and fun, and also exhausting!
  • What to look out for when choosing a photographer who will be the right fit.
  • Getting as much out of a photo shoot as you possibly can.
  • Copyright versus usage right... it can all be very confusing.
  • Paying for usage rights for the images you've shared.
  • Having the conversation about who owns the rights to the images on social media.
  • There's safety in integrity so it's important to be clear right from the beginning.
  • Partnering with local brands in order to style a project.
  • Developing relationships with local businesses and highlighting their products in your photo shoots.
  • Using images to sell a feeling.

Bio:

Sarah is a Boston based photographer specializing in interiors and fine art photography.  Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work.  After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world. Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work.

Links:

Website: Sarah Winchester Studios

Instagram: Sarah_W_Studios

Austin Mill PR

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Stephen Karlisch # 369

David Livingstone # 51

Raquel Langworthy # 343

Sarah Winchester Studios - Pitch for LuAnne Nigara Podcast

About Sarah Winchester

Sarah is a Boston based photographer who shoots all over the country, specializing in interiors and fine art photography. Raised in Atlanta, GA she brings her southern sensibility and style to her work. After years in the corporate world as a creative director, brand manager, and in-house photographer, Sarah opened her own studio in 2009. Sarah’s strengths lie in blending the needs of the client with her own unique and artistic approach, to create beautiful and effective images. Sarah graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History and received her Masters in Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She was also able to spend time studying art in Florence, Italy–one of her favorite cities in the world.

Sarah has worked with clients, which span the creative and professional world, from magazines and fashion houses to advertising campaigns and construction companies. She also creates a series of fine art photography stemming from a passion for art and travel; creating beautiful images to live with and love.

Sarah feels photography is about creating, not just capturing and brings that emotion to her work.

OVERVIEW:

  1. PHOTOGRAPHERS - How to choose one? What sets me apart?
  2. In an increasingly growing field, how should a designer choose?
  3. In turn, how can a photographer set him or herself apart? (I know lots of interiors

photographers who listen to the podcast)

  1. SOCIAL MEDIA - Still photography, moving images, videos
  2. Social Media v. Website/Portfolio
  3. Instagram shooting tips. IPhone v. Professional
  4. Engagement, Stories, connecting with followers.
  5. CONTENT - Still photography, moving images, videos
  6. Should you be doing “more?” What does that “more” look like?
  7. Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where

traditional print media can’t go

  1. COPYRIGHT - Who “owns” the images
  2. Copy Right v. Usage Rights
  3. 2 - 3 party usage - reduced rate
  4. “Other Parties” wishing to use the photos. Publications, vendors, etc.
  5. STYLING - The discussion continued…
  6. Such an important aspect of interiors photography. Could parent more discussion.
  7. Photographer as stylist…is this the new norm? Perhaps, but only if it fits the project and photographer.
  8. Partnering with a local business. Helps the shoot, the homeowner often buys the pieces and helps the designer finish out the project.
  9. I often buy or borrow, books, accessories, home goods, etc. for a shoot and let the homeowner buy the products from a shoot…unless they are from my personal collection. - The homeowner gets free shopping and styling
  10. ART + ART SOURCING
  11. Not all spaces and projects have amazing art budgets, but art is a crucial part of a finished project and creating beautiful, finished photographs.
  12. Relationship with art consultants. Finding new a artist who will lend work.
  13. A personal passion: I love finding new artists and helping them.
  14. GETTING PUBLISHED
  15. Writers - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people) Develop a relationship with writers.
  16. They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects.
  17. Local/Regional press and print is still amazing.
  18. Online features - .com arm of publications, blogs. Great in that things can go viral. Also, the reason why it is important to credit everyone when you post things.

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

IN DEPTH BREAK DOWN

  1. Photographers

- How to choose one?

- I come from a fine art/art history background that is where I start, but I also have some commercial experience so that always creeps in, but first and foremost I LOVE creating a great editorial type shot. One that will draw the viewer into the space. I love the challenge of creating beautiful images but also the effectiveness of conveying the “information” the designer needs/wants to parlay.

- Photographers - Just like designers, there is the right fit for you.

  • What is their photographic style, their personality, do they assist in styling, and do they fit your budget and meet or talk to them in person.
  • Crowded field of photographers - photography is becoming more and more accessible which makes the field larger. I say great. A rising tide lifts all boats.

- Look closely at the photographer's portfolio. The feel, the lighting, the angles.

  • How do you want your work to look? Just like when people choose a designer that best suits their needs and style.

- Photo shoots are long hard days…sometimes overnight trips. You better like who you are working with and shouldn’t it be fun?

  • They should be creatively fulfilling days that give you the final images that perfectly show your work and you.

- Trust the photographer but also speak up.

  • If the leather straps on a chair really speak to your work and your design choices, make sure the photographer gets those leather straps! Or tile or built-in design.

- This is the time to get the project the way you want it because when you walk out the door and close it behind you that is it. What do you have left of the

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

project? A photo shoot is a chance to get the project the way you want it and preserve it for your portfolio.

  1. SOCIAL MEDIA

- Consulting - Social Media v. Website/Portfolio

- How to use Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. Which platform is the best for you?

  • To expand upon what David Livingston talked about in Episode 51 when

talking bout Houzz. Where should designers be?

- How to use it for your brand/company - for most in our business Instagram is THE tool to use. I have a little PDF I like to share with my clients as an “added value.”

- Instagram shooting tips. I like giving my clients a little cheat sheet on how to use their iPhone and Instagram to their best of their ability. The iPhone is a very powerful camera. It kills me when people don’t use it to the best of their ability.

  • I also love consulting new designers in this. They may only have the budget to hire me for that one great room they “designed to completion” so I love teaching photography 101 so they can use their iPhone to create content and images for social media.
  • For website and portfolio purported I still advice to use a true professional.

- Instagram Engagement

  • Community Building, give credit.
  • Reply to comments, DM’s, etc
  • Pose questions. Ask for advice.

- Posts v. Stories

- Authenticity - “Behind the curtain”. About you as a creative/business owner.

  • Photos of travels
  • Videos - real life, behind the scenes.
  • Show your personality

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

- Give Credit - It takes a lot of people to make a beautiful space and then the image that represents that space. It makes you look better to give credit where credit is due and helps with engagement. The more the merrier!

  • Designer, architect, Builder, Stylist, Photographer. Try to credit all the people involved. It only makes you look better and it spreads the love/influence.
  1. GIFFS and VIDEOS

- Giffs and video type images.

  • I have been having fun creating gifts and stop motion images.
  • Online and social media are perfect for playing with this. Places where

traditional print media can’t go

  • If your photographer focuses on only still, the iPhone can so much.
  • Time-lapse, stop motion, videos, etc.
  1. COPYRIGHT

- Who “owns” the images. Such a huge topic these days with photo sharing and the monetizing of Instagram, shopping, etc. It seems to be a touchy subject but an important one.

- What is the difference between usage rights and copyrights?

  • It is my job a the photographer to educate the designer on the differences. I don’t expect the designer to know this.

- When I was on salary for a large corporation they “owned” all the images I took. Some of my photographs were used in national ad campaigned printed in the likes of Sports Illustrated and This Old House, but I did not receive and usage payment form my company. That was our agreement. Totally fine as I was a salaried employee and that was a part of my job description.

- Now running my own studio I “own” all my images. I maintain the copyright.

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

  • The question may be raised from a designer ”but that is my work, my project.”

Absolutely. I have been hired for my talents, my brain juice, on how to create a photograph to best showcase that work. That creation…that photograph is my work, therefore the creator maintains the copyright.

- Usage Rights - When I shoot for a designer they have unlimited “usage rights” to the images. My wording goes:

  • Unlimited digital and print usage is granted to the client. Any editorial rights (digital and print) rights should be settled between Sarah Winchester Studios LLC and the publisher. Images and their rights usage are not transferable. Rights usage by other parties may be obtained for a fee per image. Sarah Winchester Studios LLC is the sole copyright owner (only usage rights is being granted) All photography to be credited: Sarah M. Winchester

- “Other parties” includes, builders, architects, lighting companies, wallpaper, furniture company, etc who see the images and then wants to use it for an ad campaign or marketing tool they need to contact me for a usage fee.

  • Basically, if they are going to use my image to sell their product. They are usually more than happy to and understand this industry standard. Plus it is far more economical than producing their own photo shoots.
  • I had a wonderful recent experience where a project for my beloved client Cecilia Walker was featured on domino.com (a connection through written Jaci Conry). Cecilia had used a lot of Hudson Valley lighting fixtures. They then bought some usage rights from me and ended up using the images in their national advertising campaign all over their website and in print publications like House Beautiful.
  • Conversely, I had a company see a project in a publication, asked to buy some usage but the designer had such a terrible time dealing with them she asked that I not. I of course obliged. My relationship with the designer is worth much more than the money I would have gotten from this other party. I always ask…and get the permission of the homeowner.
  • So many moving parts involved, but I find being open and transparent is the best way and I pride myself in being clear and honest.

- 2 - 3 Companies Usage

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

  • Often times the designer, builder and architect all want photos of a project.

For this, I offer a slightly reduced “combined rate” for the shoot.

  • So the overall cost of the shoot might be more because there are more people “using” the images, but when split 3 ways is less expensive for each party than if they each hired me separately.

- If copyrights are wanting to be purchased it usually is a much higher cost because I am basically giving away all my rights to that image I created. That case usually only comes up when a photographer is hired by Architectural Digest or some major print publication but even then that is not always the case.

  • I heard Photographer Lynsey Adario who shoots for the NY Times, National Geographic, etc. speak and she said she shoots as a freelancer for that reason. So she owns the copyrights to her photographs.
  1. STYLING

- Styling Assistance - I have rolled it into my services because I love it and I am good at it.

  • This was covered greatly in the Raquel Langworthy podcast and I thought she did an amazing job conveying the differences between stying assistance and hiring a professional stylist. It's a new way people are looking at their photographers.
  • Majority of my clients do not have the budget to hire amazing stylists like Stacy Kunstel or Charlotte Safavi. That is usually a publication level shoot.

- I have relationships with various studios and shops and after scouting with gather information on colors, flowers, accessories, books needed. I borrow a ton of stuff on my own. Inevitably the homeowner buys half the stuff we bring.

Win-win for all.

- If the homeowner isn’t on set (which is usually the case and the preferred option) we send photos and pricing while on a shoot for approval.

- A great way for the designer to finish out the project.

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

- I know what it “photogenic” I know what has been shot to death. (Ahem…Tom Ford book)I also like that “control” over the shoot. It makes us all look better.

- STORY: I recently shot a gorgeous old brownstone in historic Beacon Hill, the designer hired me to style and shoot the project. I hired my own styling assistant. We spent an entire day styling and then we shot for two days. I helped source art

  1. ART

- Art sourcing - Art is SUPER important.

  • This is also a personal passion of mine with my Art History major, I love finding new artist, I have a few art consultants I work with who lend me work. One of whom I am giving a Design Week talk with about Art + Design.
  • To Stephen Karlisch point we can hold art up. No need to bang holes in that Phillip Jeffery wallpaper. And sometimes the homeowner ends up buying a piece. Win-win!
  1. GETTING PUBLISHED

- Writers!!! - In addition to getting to know editors (which can be very challenging because they are such busy people), I have loved developing relationship with writers.

  • They get paid by the story to so we all want to find amazing projects.

- Local/Regional press and print is still amazing

- We all want national press of course but regional print has amazon coverage

- New England Home, Newspaper magazine, Modern Luxury, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle

SARAH WINCHESTER STUDIOS. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

WWW.SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM. | SARAH@SARAHWINCHESTERSTUDIOS.COM | 404.542.2833

]]> 5464 no 443: Jared Hughes: Build Relationships, Build Your Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/jared-hughes-build-relationships-build-your-design-firm Welcome to the show! Today, we have the charming Jared Hughes, an interior designer from Atlanta, joining us. Jared's Instagram and his website are well worth paying attention to because they are unusual, warm, and beautiful, and the authentic way that he has remained true to himself and his own, personal style really shines through both. In today's episode, Jared talks to us about his solid interior design business and he explains how he has built a reputation and gained recognition as a talented designer within the interior design industry, even though his firm is still under three years old. Tune in now, to find out more! Jared opened his firm after ten years of experience working for others in residential design and event and floral design. The experience that he gained from doing this has allowed him to hit the ground running and as a result, he's been producing projects that are timeless, classic, and with an unexpected twist. Listen in to find out what Jared has to share today. You're really going to enjoy this episode! Show Highlights: Jared talks about his confidence in presenting his work in his own, unique way in his Instagram and on his website. There are some key elements that are evident in all of Jared's designs. Jared explains why hints of his personal life appear regularly in his Instagram feed. Jared's biggest client is from Switzerland. What people are looking for in Atlanta, in terms of interior design. Jared talks about his incredible number of accomplishments over the last two years. Networking has really been key to Jared's success. As a new designer, it's really important to present yourself in a humble and respectful manner when getting to know more experienced designers. Jared advises you, as baby designers, to take the advice of more seasoned designers and let them help you. We never stop learning, so Jared likes to test out processes that have worked for other people. Jared is extroverted and better around other people, however, he has no problem with being alone. Jared gives some unique and useful advice to help introverted designers with networking. Jared explains where he gained the grounding for his specific design aesthetic. Bio: Jared Hughes is a globally inspired Atlanta designer with deep roots in the South. His penchant for antiques and architecture are at the heart of his work, and his fascination with fabrics is the starting point for nearly all of his design projects. He gleans inspiration from his obsession with color to rethink the past and create livable,  layered spaces. With 10 years of experience in residential, event and floral design, Hughes’ breadth of experience allows him to produce projects that feel timeless and classic with an unexpected twist. Links and Resources: Website: Jared Hughes Design Instagram: Jared Hughes Design Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat. This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Tue, 02 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Jared Hughes: Build Relationships, Build Your Design Firm full 443 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today, we have the charming Jared Hughes, an interior designer from Atlanta, joining us. Jared's Instagram and his website are well worth paying attention to because they are unusual, warm, and beautiful, and the authentic way... Welcome to the show! Today, we have the charming Jared Hughes, an interior designer from Atlanta, joining us. Jared's Instagram and his website are well worth paying attention to because they are unusual, warm, and beautiful, and the authentic way that he has remained true to himself and his own, personal style really shines through both. In today's episode, Jared talks to us about his solid interior design business and he explains how he has built a reputation and gained recognition as a talented designer within the interior design industry, even though his firm is still under three years old. Tune in now, to find out more! Jared opened his firm after ten years of experience working for others in residential design and event and floral design. The experience that he gained from doing this has allowed him to hit the ground running and as a result, he's been producing projects that are timeless, classic, and with an unexpected twist. Listen in to find out what Jared has to share today. You're really going to enjoy this episode! Show Highlights: Jared talks about his confidence in presenting his work in his own, unique way in his Instagram and on his website. There are some key elements that are evident in all of Jared's designs. Jared explains why hints of his personal life appear regularly in his Instagram feed. Jared's biggest client is from Switzerland. What people are looking for in Atlanta, in terms of interior design. Jared talks about his incredible number of accomplishments over the last two years. Networking has really been key to Jared's success. As a new designer, it's really important to present yourself in a humble and respectful manner when getting to know more experienced designers. Jared advises you, as baby designers, to take the advice of more seasoned designers and let them help you. We never stop learning, so Jared likes to test out processes that have worked for other people. Jared is extroverted and better around other people, however, he has no problem with being alone. Jared gives some unique and useful advice to help introverted designers with networking. Jared explains where he gained the grounding for his specific design aesthetic. Bio: Jared Hughes is a globally inspired Atlanta designer with deep roots in the South. His penchant for antiques and architecture are at the heart of his work, and his fascination with fabrics is the starting point for nearly all of his design projects. He gleans inspiration from his obsession with color to rethink the past and create livable,  layered spaces. With 10 years of experience in residential, event and floral design, Hughes’ breadth of experience allows him to produce projects that feel timeless and classic with an unexpected twist. Links and Resources: Website: Jared Hughes Design Instagram: Jared Hughes Design Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat. This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Welcome to the show! Today, we have the charming Jared Hughes, an interior designer from Atlanta, joining us. Jared's Instagram and his website are well worth paying attention to because they are unusual, warm, and beautiful, and the authentic way that he has remained true to himself and his own, personal style really shines through both. In today's episode, Jared talks to us about his solid interior design business and he explains how he has built a reputation and gained recognition as a talented designer within the interior design industry, even though his firm is still under three years old. Tune in now, to find out more!

Jared opened his firm after ten years of experience working for others in residential design and event and floral design. The experience that he gained from doing this has allowed him to hit the ground running and as a result, he's been producing projects that are timeless, classic, and with an unexpected twist. Listen in to find out what Jared has to share today. You're really going to enjoy this episode!

Show Highlights:

  • Jared talks about his confidence in presenting his work in his own, unique way in his Instagram and on his website.
  • There are some key elements that are evident in all of Jared's designs.
  • Jared explains why hints of his personal life appear regularly in his Instagram feed.
  • Jared's biggest client is from Switzerland.
  • What people are looking for in Atlanta, in terms of interior design.
  • Jared talks about his incredible number of accomplishments over the last two years.
  • Networking has really been key to Jared's success.
  • As a new designer, it's really important to present yourself in a humble and respectful manner when getting to know more experienced designers.
  • Jared advises you, as baby designers, to take the advice of more seasoned designers and let them help you.
  • We never stop learning, so Jared likes to test out processes that have worked for other people.
  • Jared is extroverted and better around other people, however, he has no problem with being alone.
  • Jared gives some unique and useful advice to help introverted designers with networking.
  • Jared explains where he gained the grounding for his specific design aesthetic.

Bio:

Jared Hughes is a globally inspired Atlanta designer with deep roots in the South. His penchant for antiques and architecture are at the heart of his work, and his fascination with fabrics is the starting point for nearly all of his design projects. He gleans inspiration from his obsession with color to rethink the past and create livable,  layered spaces. With 10 years of experience in residential, event and floral design, Hughes’ breadth of experience allows him to produce projects that feel timeless and classic with an unexpected twist.

Links and Resources:

Website: Jared Hughes Design

Instagram: Jared Hughes Design

Will you be joining LuAnn in Las Vegas for her one-day Power Talk Friday Tour? LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. Go to Power Talk Friday to reserve your seat.

This event is sponsored by Revel Woods and MyDoma Studio.

To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999.

]]> 3698 no 442: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Do You Know Your Cash on Hand Number? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/442-power-talk-friday-kimberly-merlitti-do-you-know-your-cash-on-hand-number Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Kimberly Merlitti, one of our favorite Power Talk Experts, back on the show today. Many people are really in the dark about how much money is actually going in and out of their businesses. Kimberly, who first appeared in episode #361, loves teaching people to understand accounting in a way that makes them an active partner in their finances. Talking in really simple language, she helps people figure out the really important financial side of their businesses. In today's episode, you will learn about the billable hours, rates between the principal designer and junior designers, how to know your cash on hand, how to know your 'cost to be open' number, how to budget to hire a junior designer, and how to prepare for a recession. Listen in, to find out how to get to know your numbers. Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly's clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Kimberly shares a really simple calculation for you to get to know how much of the money in your business account is actually yours. Using the best software to calculate your vendor liability. Keeping an eye on your cash flow. How to know your cash on hand. It only takes five minutes a month to know your cash on hand. Budgeting to hire a junior designer. Working out your time-billing rates and budgets. Being upfront and straightforward with your clients. Telling your clients what to expect with every stage of the design process. Things to consider when working out your 'cost to be open' number. How to prepare for a recession. Building cash reserves for difficult times. Other episodes mentioned in today's show: Alinda Morris: #429 Michele Williams #180 and #395 Peter Lang #349 Links: A Well Designed Business Kimberly's website: KMM Consulting Kimberly's email: kimberly@kmmsf.com Need to schedule time with KMM? KMM Consulting Fri, 28 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Do You Know Your Cash on Hand Number? full 442 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Kimberly Merlitti, one of our favorite Power Talk Experts, back on the show today. Many people are really in the dark about how much money is actually going in and out of their businesses.... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Kimberly Merlitti, one of our favorite Power Talk Experts, back on the show today. Many people are really in the dark about how much money is actually going in and out of their businesses. Kimberly, who first appeared in episode #361, loves teaching people to understand accounting in a way that makes them an active partner in their finances. Talking in really simple language, she helps people figure out the really important financial side of their businesses. In today's episode, you will learn about the billable hours, rates between the principal designer and junior designers, how to know your cash on hand, how to know your 'cost to be open' number, how to budget to hire a junior designer, and how to prepare for a recession. Listen in, to find out how to get to know your numbers. Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly's clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Kimberly shares a really simple calculation for you to get to know how much of the money in your business account is actually yours. Using the best software to calculate your vendor liability. Keeping an eye on your cash flow. How to know your cash on hand. It only takes five minutes a month to know your cash on hand. Budgeting to hire a junior designer. Working out your time-billing rates and budgets. Being upfront and straightforward with your clients. Telling your clients what to expect with every stage of the design process. Things to consider when working out your 'cost to be open' number. How to prepare for a recession. Building cash reserves for difficult times. Other episodes mentioned in today's show: Alinda Morris: #429 Michele Williams #180 and #395 Peter Lang #349 Links: A Well Designed Business Kimberly's website: KMM Consulting Kimberly's email: kimberly@kmmsf.com Need to schedule time with KMM? KMM Consulting Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Kimberly Merlitti, one of our favorite Power Talk Experts, back on the show today. Many people are really in the dark about how much money is actually going in and out of their businesses. Kimberly, who first appeared in episode #361, loves teaching people to understand accounting in a way that makes them an active partner in their finances. Talking in really simple language, she helps people figure out the really important financial side of their businesses. In today's episode, you will learn about the billable hours, rates between the principal designer and junior designers, how to know your cash on hand, how to know your 'cost to be open' number, how to budget to hire a junior designer, and how to prepare for a recession. Listen in, to find out how to get to know your numbers.

Kimberly Merlitti owns KMM Consulting based out of Washington, D.C. She has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio, and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University. Located in Washington D.C. Kimberly's clientele includes a diverse group of service-based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Tune in now, for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Kimberly shares a really simple calculation for you to get to know how much of the money in your business account is actually yours.
  • Using the best software to calculate your vendor liability.
  • Keeping an eye on your cash flow.
  • How to know your cash on hand.
  • It only takes five minutes a month to know your cash on hand.
  • Budgeting to hire a junior designer.
  • Working out your time-billing rates and budgets.
  • Being upfront and straightforward with your clients.
  • Telling your clients what to expect with every stage of the design process.
  • Things to consider when working out your 'cost to be open' number.
  • How to prepare for a recession.
  • Building cash reserves for difficult times.

Other episodes mentioned in today's show:

Alinda Morris: #429

Michele Williams #180 and #395

Peter Lang #349

Links:

A Well Designed Business

Kimberly's website: KMM Consulting

Kimberly's email: kimberly@kmmsf.com

Need to schedule time with KMM? KMM Consulting

]]> 3724 no 441: Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/441-laura-cliff-muller-four-point-design-build-firm Welcome to today's show! We're excited to be interviewing Laura and Cliff Muller today. Laura and Cliff are the husband and wife team behind Four Point Design Build, an award-winning full-service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm, based in Los Angeles. The landscape of interior design is changing, so design-build has become an incredible opportunity for interior designers to have control over their projects and to enjoy the fruits of a multi-dimensional process. In today's episode, Cliff and Laura share some of their winning design-build processes, and Laura gives some great advice about mentorship and collaborating with build professionals. Tune in now, to find out more. Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Listen in today, to find out about what it takes to run a successful design-build business. Show Highlights: There's a fine line between professionalism and personal expression in the world of business today. Why Laura and Cliff make such an excellent husband and wife team. Celebrating all the different people involved in a project at the end. How they developed the name of their business. Cliff and Laura's four-step business-process. Understanding what goes into a design-build project. The best way for a new designer to start out in the design-build world. Laura suggests that new designers find a design-build mentor to oversee their first small design-build project. The best way for a young designer to approach someone they would like to become their mentor. Laura explains how to make the right kind of connections. What has to happen at the beginning of a successful design-build project. The investigation and analysis that is necessary before the start of a design-build project. Knowing your self-worth and value, and the essence of the truth of your business is really empowering. Some websites that provide good information for designers and consumers to understand what to expect from a design-build project. Laura discusses the really well-received presentation that they did at the Las Vegas market, around the changing landscape of interior design. Short Company Bio: FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC LAURA MULLER – CEO, OWNER + PRINCIPAL CLIFF MULLER – SENIOR CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANT June 20, 2019 For Immediate Release FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC is an award-winning full service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm based in Los Angeles, serving clients nationwide. Owned and led by Interior Designer and General Contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. From high-rise and mixed-use design-build to executive offices and luxury custom homes, Cliff and Laura guide and oversee every detail and project process with systems and teams in place that allow their Clients to relax and enjoy the blessings of designing and building a custom luxury #CleanFreshModernTM space. [137] Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Laura is the former President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID/2016) and has the distinct honor of being selected to the prestigious 2018 DXV Design Panel and the elite 2019 Designer Council for Monogram Appliances. Cliff has collaborated on award-winning and highly celebrated projects with such renown architects as Patrick Tighe and Morphosis. [90] Link to HIGH RES IMAGES: A WELL DESIGNED BUSINESS_PODCAST ASSETS SERVICES INCLUDE > Full Service Interior Design > Architecture and Detailing > Custom Furniture Design and Fabrication > Construction Documents and Permit Acquisition > Full Service Project and Construction Management and Administration PROJECT TYPES > Residential > Commercial > Tenant Improvement > Retail > Restaurant > Multi-Family and Mixed Use TO LEARN MORE about us, our team, and our work, visit Four Point Design Build and SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter #The4ptReport for tips and trends, means and methods, things we love, inspiration, resources and tools, and more. FOLLOW US @4ptDesignBuild on Instagram Facebook Pinterest and Twitter. C O N T A C T U S Project Inquiries - Info@4ptdb.com Media and Speaking Inquiries - Andrew@andrewjosephpr S T U D I O 22048 Sherman Way, Suite 205 Canoga Park, CA 91303 | T 818.914.8826 LIC. B #982460   Links: Website: 4 Point Design Build Inc Instagram: 4 Point Design Build Inc Twitter: 4 Point Design Build Inc Facebook: 4 Point Design Build Inc Pinterest: 4 Point Design Build Inc The Design-Build Institute of America: DBIA LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Tue, 25 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Laura & Cliff Muller: Four Point Design Build Firm full 441 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We're excited to be interviewing Laura and Cliff Muller today. Laura and Cliff are the husband and wife team behind Four Point Design Build, an award-winning full-service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial... Welcome to today's show! We're excited to be interviewing Laura and Cliff Muller today. Laura and Cliff are the husband and wife team behind Four Point Design Build, an award-winning full-service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm, based in Los Angeles. The landscape of interior design is changing, so design-build has become an incredible opportunity for interior designers to have control over their projects and to enjoy the fruits of a multi-dimensional process. In today's episode, Cliff and Laura share some of their winning design-build processes, and Laura gives some great advice about mentorship and collaborating with build professionals. Tune in now, to find out more. Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Listen in today, to find out about what it takes to run a successful design-build business. Show Highlights: There's a fine line between professionalism and personal expression in the world of business today. Why Laura and Cliff make such an excellent husband and wife team. Celebrating all the different people involved in a project at the end. How they developed the name of their business. Cliff and Laura's four-step business-process. Understanding what goes into a design-build project. The best way for a new designer to start out in the design-build world. Laura suggests that new designers find a design-build mentor to oversee their first small design-build project. The best way for a young designer to approach someone they would like to become their mentor. Laura explains how to make the right kind of connections. What has to happen at the beginning of a successful design-build project. The investigation and analysis that is necessary before the start of a design-build project. Knowing your self-worth and value, and the essence of the truth of your business is really empowering. Some websites that provide good information for designers and consumers to understand what to expect from a design-build project. Laura discusses the really well-received presentation that they did at the Las Vegas market, around the changing landscape of interior design. Short Company Bio: FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC LAURA MULLER – CEO, OWNER + PRINCIPAL CLIFF MULLER – SENIOR CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANT June 20, 2019 For Immediate Release FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC is an award-winning full service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm based in Los Angeles, serving clients nationwide. Owned and led by Interior Designer and General Contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. From high-rise and mixed-use design-build to executive offices and luxury custom homes, Cliff and Laura guide and oversee every detail and project process with systems and teams in place that allow their Clients to relax and enjoy the blessings of designing and building a custom luxury #CleanFreshModernTM space. [137] Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Laura is the former President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID/2016) and has the distinct honor of being selected to the prestigious 2018 DXV Design Panel and the elite 2019 Designer Council for Monogram Appliances. Cliff has collaborated on award-winning and highly celebrated projects with such renown architects as Patrick Tighe and Morphosis. [90] Link to HIGH RES IMAGES: A WELL DESIGNED BUSINESS_PODCAST ASSETS SERVICES INCLUDE > Full Service Interior Design > Architecture and Detailing > Custom Furniture Design and Fabrication > Construction Documents and Permit Acquisition > Full Service Project and Construction Management and Administration PROJECT TYPES > Residential > Commercial > Tenant Improvement > Retail > Restaurant > Multi-Family and Mixed Use TO LEARN MORE about us, our team, and our work, visit Four Point Design Build and SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter #The4ptReport for tips and trends, means and methods, things we love, inspiration, resources and tools, and more. FOLLOW US @4ptDesignBuild on Instagram Facebook Pinterest and Twitter. C O N T A C T U S Project Inquiries - Info@4ptdb.com Media and Speaking Inquiries - Andrew@andrewjosephpr S T U D I O 22048 Sherman Way, Suite 205 Canoga Park, CA 91303 | T 818.914.8826 LIC. B #982460   Links: Website: 4 Point Design Build Inc Instagram: 4 Point Design Build Inc Twitter: 4 Point Design Build Inc Facebook: 4 Point Design Build Inc Pinterest: 4 Point Design Build Inc The Design-Build Institute of America: DBIA LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Welcome to today's show! We're excited to be interviewing Laura and Cliff Muller today. Laura and Cliff are the husband and wife team behind Four Point Design Build, an award-winning full-service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm, based in Los Angeles. The landscape of interior design is changing, so design-build has become an incredible opportunity for interior designers to have control over their projects and to enjoy the fruits of a multi-dimensional process. In today's episode, Cliff and Laura share some of their winning design-build processes, and Laura gives some great advice about mentorship and collaborating with build professionals. Tune in now, to find out more.

Four Point Design Build is owned and led by interior designer and general contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey, specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Listen in today, to find out about what it takes to run a successful design-build business.

Show Highlights:

  • There's a fine line between professionalism and personal expression in the world of business today.
  • Why Laura and Cliff make such an excellent husband and wife team.
  • Celebrating all the different people involved in a project at the end.
  • How they developed the name of their business.
  • Cliff and Laura's four-step business-process.
  • Understanding what goes into a design-build project.
  • The best way for a new designer to start out in the design-build world.
  • Laura suggests that new designers find a design-build mentor to oversee their first small design-build project.
  • The best way for a young designer to approach someone they would like to become their mentor.
  • Laura explains how to make the right kind of connections.
  • What has to happen at the beginning of a successful design-build project.
  • The investigation and analysis that is necessary before the start of a design-build project.
  • Knowing your self-worth and value, and the essence of the truth of your business is really empowering.
  • Some websites that provide good information for designers and consumers to understand what to expect from a design-build project.
  • Laura discusses the really well-received presentation that they did at the Las Vegas market, around the changing landscape of interior design.

Short Company Bio:

FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC

LAURA MULLER – CEO, OWNER + PRINCIPAL

CLIFF MULLER – SENIOR CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANT

June 20, 2019

For Immediate Release

FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC is an award-winning full service multi-disciplinary residential and commercial high-level interior and architectural design, project management, and construction firm based in Los Angeles, serving clients nationwide. Owned and led by Interior Designer and General Contractor, Laura and Cliff Muller, and with over sixty years of combined experience, FOUR POINT’s boutique hands-on style of design and project management from concept to turnkey specializes in highly customized client-centered projects with an experienced and immaculate focus on whole home remodels, kitchens, baths, and office spaces. From high-rise and mixed-use design-build to executive offices and luxury custom homes, Cliff and Laura guide and oversee every detail and project process with systems and teams in place that allow their Clients to relax and enjoy the blessings of designing and building a custom luxury #CleanFreshModernTM space. [137]

Cliff and Laura’s work has been seen Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Metropolis, Hospitality Design, and CA Home & Design to name a few. Laura is the former President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID/2016) and has the distinct honor of being selected to the prestigious 2018 DXV Design Panel and the elite 2019 Designer Council for Monogram Appliances. Cliff has collaborated on award-winning and highly celebrated projects with such renown architects as Patrick Tighe and Morphosis. [90]

Link to HIGH RES IMAGES: A WELL DESIGNED BUSINESS_PODCAST ASSETS

SERVICES INCLUDE

> Full Service Interior Design

> Architecture and Detailing

> Custom Furniture Design and Fabrication

> Construction Documents and Permit Acquisition

> Full Service Project and Construction Management and Administration

PROJECT TYPES

> Residential

> Commercial

> Tenant Improvement

> Retail

> Restaurant

> Multi-Family and Mixed Use

TO LEARN MORE about us, our team, and our work, visit Four Point Design Build and SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter #The4ptReport

for tips and trends, means and methods, things we love, inspiration, resources and tools, and more. FOLLOW US @4ptDesignBuild on

Instagram Facebook Pinterest and Twitter.

C O N T A C T U S

Project Inquiries - Info@4ptdb.com

Media and Speaking Inquiries - Andrew@andrewjosephpr

S T U D I O

22048 Sherman Way, Suite 205 Canoga Park, CA 91303 | T 818.914.8826

LIC. B #982460

 

Links:

Website: 4 Point Design Build Inc

Instagram: 4 Point Design Build Inc

Twitter: 4 Point Design Build Inc

Facebook: 4 Point Design Build Inc

Pinterest: 4 Point Design Build Inc

The Design-Build Institute of America: DBIA

LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually.

To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999.

]]> 4332 no 440: Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/440-power-talk-friday-tobi-fairley-her-design-you-coaching-program Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by our guest, Tobi Fairley, who previously appeared in episode #419. Tobi has been one of our industry leaders for many years, mentoring interior designers and helping them become better business persons. She is an accomplished luxury interior designer with her business based in Arkansas. She's a fabric designer, a business coach, a life coach, and she has her own podcast called Design You. Tobi has also created a unique and really effective coaching course called Tobi Fairley's DesignYou Coaching Program and in today's episode, she explains how her coaching program differs from all the rest. Tobi loves nothing more than helping people really thrive and love their business so listen in today, to learn from Tobi how to cast a wider net and start making money while you sleep. Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. She is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Tobi explains what's different about her coaching. Getting out of your own head and out of your own way. Unlocking your old mindsets. Why the course is a yearly program. Tobi explains what the coaching course covers. Finances can be scary for creatives. The kind of real-time support that you will get from Tobi. The benefits of abundant thinking. The three different courses that Tobi will be re-doing, live, that are also included in her yearly course. Tobi is very straightforward with her coaching clients. Tobi explains why it's in her best interest to pour all her support into you. Why you need to be doing business differently now to how you did it in the past. Digital marketing for interior designers. Understanding the value ladder in a digital marketing system. Opening your mind to working differently. Creating a system from your design process. Becoming niche-specific. Meeting your clients right where they are. How coaching, content, and community can help you reach your goals. Bio: Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.” Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives. Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them. Tobi was at the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs. Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business, and home. For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Tobi's first appearance on the show was in episode #419 Links and resources: Tobi's details: Tobi Fairley, ASID 17200 Chenal Parkway Suite 300 #330 Little Rock, AR 72223 tobifairley.com info@tobifairley.com 501-868-9882 Tobi's website: Tobi Fairley Tobi's podcast, Design You Mighty Networks   Tobi’s Freebie for LuAnn’s Audience: The Digital Marketing Primer e-Course--this 12-part email course teaches you the basics of what a digital marketing strategy is and why you MUST have one in your business.  Get it at Digital Primer Tobi Fairley’s DesignYou Coaching Program: DesignYou is a monthly coaching program for Interior Designers and Creative Entrepreneurs that costs $279 per month or $2799 per year. Features: 2 live monthly coaching calls with Tobi (2 hours each) Tobi’s Book Club bi-monthly book selections and group calls for discussion Access to Tobi’s 3 signature courses included in your membership. These courses (listed below) have transformed thousands of creatives and the way they run their businesses. Designer MBA Course Digital Marketing For Creatives Course Financials for Creatives Course (Tobi is teaching this live July 16-17) You also get a very active peer community in DesignYou built on the Mighty Networks platform. Thanks to the features of Mighty Networks, DesignYou is organized by topics and is easily searchable. There are groups on specific topics in DesignYou including: Interior Design Group Tobi’s Book Club 3 Accountability Groups for the Digital Marketing for Creatives Course depending on your level of implementation. Digital Marketing Assets Group where you can post your digital marketing deliverables for review by Tobi and Team Tobi. If you buy at the Insiders Level of DesignYou (pay for a full year when joining), you also get: A live call with one of Tobi’s top team members or experts with a Q and A--these are on topics like marketing, podcasting, writing email campaigns, creating a course or program, website design and more. A monthly flash mastermind where you and your peers do a live collaborative mastermind session on a specific topic lead by Team Tobi. A behind the scenes look at what Tobi is working on in her business and what programs courses she is currently creating. Benefits: In DesignYou we teach Designers and Creatives how to: Transform your mindset to bring about real change in your business and personal life and understand what’s holding you back/keeping you stuck so you can find a solution. Transform your business model to be profitable, scalable and future ready. Implement consulting-only offerings like Strategy Sessions into your service offerings to start making more money for your time and intellectual property TODAY! Transform your schedule from flying by the seat of your pants to organized structure. This means finally accomplishing goals but on the timeline you create. End the feast or famine nature of business by teaching members how to create a digital marketing strategy. Have more health, wealth, and joy while running your creative business. Identify burnout and all of the action steps to overcome it or prevent it. Build systems and processes to get your business running smoothly and consistently with less stress - and then we dive into how to automate these systems to create more time in your day.   Target your Ideal Client and Niche so that you are working with the group of people that light you up every day and who are most willing to pay you your worth. We also teach you how to develop a following or tribe of these like-minded clients. Learn to delegate and run a team of in-person, contract, and virtual employees so that you spend 80% of your time in your Zone of Genius. Fri, 21 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program full 440 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by our guest, Tobi Fairley, who previously appeared in . Tobi has been one of our industry leaders for many years, mentoring interior designers and helping them become better business persons.... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by our guest, Tobi Fairley, who previously appeared in episode #419. Tobi has been one of our industry leaders for many years, mentoring interior designers and helping them become better business persons. She is an accomplished luxury interior designer with her business based in Arkansas. She's a fabric designer, a business coach, a life coach, and she has her own podcast called Design You. Tobi has also created a unique and really effective coaching course called Tobi Fairley's DesignYou Coaching Program and in today's episode, she explains how her coaching program differs from all the rest. Tobi loves nothing more than helping people really thrive and love their business so listen in today, to learn from Tobi how to cast a wider net and start making money while you sleep. Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. She is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Tobi explains what's different about her coaching. Getting out of your own head and out of your own way. Unlocking your old mindsets. Why the course is a yearly program. Tobi explains what the coaching course covers. Finances can be scary for creatives. The kind of real-time support that you will get from Tobi. The benefits of abundant thinking. The three different courses that Tobi will be re-doing, live, that are also included in her yearly course. Tobi is very straightforward with her coaching clients. Tobi explains why it's in her best interest to pour all her support into you. Why you need to be doing business differently now to how you did it in the past. Digital marketing for interior designers. Understanding the value ladder in a digital marketing system. Opening your mind to working differently. Creating a system from your design process. Becoming niche-specific. Meeting your clients right where they are. How coaching, content, and community can help you reach your goals. Bio: Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.” Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives. Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them. Tobi was at the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs. Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business, and home. For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Tobi's first appearance on the show was in episode #419 Links and resources: Tobi's details: Tobi Fairley, ASID 17200 Chenal Parkway Suite 300 #330 Little Rock, AR 72223 tobifairley.com info@tobifairley.com 501-868-9882 Tobi's website: Tobi Fairley Tobi's podcast, Design You Mighty Networks   Tobi’s Freebie for LuAnn’s Audience: The Digital Marketing Primer e-Course--this 12-part email course teaches you the basics of what a digital marketing strategy is and why you MUST have one in your business.  Get it at Digital Primer Tobi Fairley’s DesignYou Coaching Program: DesignYou is a monthly coaching program for Interior Designers and Creative Entrepreneurs that costs $279 per month or $2799 per year. Features: 2 live monthly coaching calls with Tobi (2 hours each) Tobi’s Book Club bi-monthly book selections and group calls for discussion Access to Tobi’s 3 signature courses included in your membership. These courses (listed below) have transformed thousands of creatives and the way they run their businesses. Designer MBA Course Digital Marketing For Creatives Course Financials for Creatives Course (Tobi is teaching this live July 16-17) You also get a very active peer community in DesignYou built on the Mighty Networks platform. Thanks to the features of Mighty Networks, DesignYou is organized by topics and is easily searchable. There are groups on specific topics in DesignYou including: Interior Design Group Tobi’s Book Club 3 Accountability Groups for the Digital Marketing for Creatives Course depending on your level of implementation. Digital Marketing Assets Group where you can post your digital marketing deliverables for review by Tobi and Team Tobi. If you buy at the Insiders Level of DesignYou (pay for a full year when joining), you also get: A live call with one of Tobi’s top team members or experts with a Q and A--these are on topics like marketing, podcasting, writing email campaigns, creating a course or program, website design and more. A monthly flash mastermind where you and your peers do a live collaborative mastermind session on a specific topic lead by Team Tobi. A behind the scenes look at what Tobi is working on in her business and what programs courses she is currently creating. Benefits: In DesignYou we teach Designers and Creatives how to: Transform your mindset to bring about real change in your business and personal life and understand what’s holding you back/keeping you stuck so you can find a solution. Transform your business model to be profitable, scalable and future ready. Implement consulting-only offerings like Strategy Sessions into your service offerings to start making more money for your time and intellectual property TODAY! Transform your schedule from flying by the seat of your pants to organized structure. This means finally accomplishing goals but on the timeline you create. End the feast or famine nature of business by teaching members how to create a digital marketing strategy. Have more health, wealth, and joy while running your creative business. Identify burnout and all of the action steps to overcome it or prevent it. Build systems and processes to get your business running smoothly and consistently with less stress - and then we dive into how to automate these systems to create more time in your day.   Target your Ideal Client and Niche so that you are working with the group of people that light you up every day and who are most willing to pay you your worth. We also teach you how to develop a following or tribe of these like-minded clients. Learn to delegate and run a team of in-person, contract, and virtual employees so that you spend 80% of your time in your Zone of Genius. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by our guest, Tobi Fairley, who previously appeared in episode #419. Tobi has been one of our industry leaders for many years, mentoring interior designers and helping them become better business persons. She is an accomplished luxury interior designer with her business based in Arkansas. She's a fabric designer, a business coach, a life coach, and she has her own podcast called Design You. Tobi has also created a unique and really effective coaching course called Tobi Fairley's DesignYou Coaching Program and in today's episode, she explains how her coaching program differs from all the rest. Tobi loves nothing more than helping people really thrive and love their business so listen in today, to learn from Tobi how to cast a wider net and start making money while you sleep.

Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. She is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives. Tune in now, to find out more!

Show Highlights:

  • Tobi explains what's different about her coaching.
  • Getting out of your own head and out of your own way.
  • Unlocking your old mindsets.
  • Why the course is a yearly program.
  • Tobi explains what the coaching course covers.
  • Finances can be scary for creatives.
  • The kind of real-time support that you will get from Tobi.
  • The benefits of abundant thinking.
  • The three different courses that Tobi will be re-doing, live, that are also included in her yearly course.
  • Tobi is very straightforward with her coaching clients.
  • Tobi explains why it's in her best interest to pour all her support into you.
  • Why you need to be doing business differently now to how you did it in the past.
  • Digital marketing for interior designers.
  • Understanding the value ladder in a digital marketing system.
  • Opening your mind to working differently.
  • Creating a system from your design process.
  • Becoming niche-specific.
  • Meeting your clients right where they are.
  • How coaching, content, and community can help you reach your goals.

Bio:

Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.”

Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives.

Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal.

Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them.

Tobi was at the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs.

Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business, and home.

For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018.

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Tobi's first appearance on the show was in episode #419

Links and resources:

Tobi's details:

Tobi Fairley, ASID

17200 Chenal Parkway Suite 300 #330

Little Rock, AR 72223

tobifairley.com

info@tobifairley.com

501-868-9882

Tobi's website: Tobi Fairley

Tobi's podcast, Design You

Mighty Networks

 

Tobi’s Freebie for LuAnn’s Audience:

The Digital Marketing Primer e-Course--this 12-part email course teaches you the basics of what a digital marketing strategy is and why you MUST have one in your business.  Get it at Digital Primer

Tobi Fairley’s DesignYou Coaching Program:

DesignYou is a monthly coaching program for Interior Designers and Creative Entrepreneurs that costs $279 per month or $2799 per year.

Features:

  • 2 live monthly coaching calls with Tobi (2 hours each)
  • Tobi’s Book Club bi-monthly book selections and group calls for discussion
  • Access to Tobi’s 3 signature courses included in your membership. These courses (listed below) have transformed thousands of creatives and the way they run their businesses.
  • Designer MBA Course
  • Digital Marketing For Creatives Course
  • Financials for Creatives Course (Tobi is teaching this live July 16-17)
  • You also get a very active peer community in DesignYou built on the Mighty Networks platform. Thanks to the features of Mighty Networks, DesignYou is organized by topics and is easily searchable.
  • There are groups on specific topics in DesignYou including:
  • Interior Design Group
  • Tobi’s Book Club
  • 3 Accountability Groups for the Digital Marketing for Creatives Course depending on your level of implementation.
  • Digital Marketing Assets Group where you can post your digital marketing deliverables for review by Tobi and Team Tobi.

If you buy at the Insiders Level of DesignYou (pay for a full year when joining), you also get:

  • A live call with one of Tobi’s top team members or experts with a Q and A--these are on topics like marketing, podcasting, writing email campaigns, creating a course or program, website design and more.
  • A monthly flash mastermind where you and your peers do a live collaborative mastermind session on a specific topic lead by Team Tobi.
  • A behind the scenes look at what Tobi is working on in her business and what programs courses she is currently creating.

Benefits:

In DesignYou we teach Designers and Creatives how to:

  • Transform your mindset to bring about real change in your business and personal life and understand what’s holding you back/keeping you stuck so you can find a solution.
  • Transform your business model to be profitable, scalable and future ready.
  • Implement consulting-only offerings like Strategy Sessions into your service offerings to start making more money for your time and intellectual property TODAY!
  • Transform your schedule from flying by the seat of your pants to organized structure. This means finally accomplishing goals but on the timeline you create.
  • End the feast or famine nature of business by teaching members how to create a digital marketing strategy.
  • Have more health, wealth, and joy while running your creative business.
  • Identify burnout and all of the action steps to overcome it or prevent it.
  • Build systems and processes to get your business running smoothly and consistently with less stress - and then we dive into how to automate these systems to create more time in your day.  
  • Target your Ideal Client and Niche so that you are working with the group of people that light you up every day and who are most willing to pay you your worth. We also teach you how to develop a following or tribe of these like-minded clients.
  • Learn to delegate and run a team of in-person, contract, and virtual employees so that you spend 80% of your time in your Zone of Genius.
]]> 4662 no 439: Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/439-beth-diana-smith-client-expectations-contracts-and-hard-conversations Welcome! Today, Beth Smith, the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, based in New Jersey, joins me on the show. For Beth, the interior design came years after pursuing her degrees in business and accounting to fulfill her love of processes and business strategy. In today's episode, Beth talks to us about budgets, managing situations, and expectations, and also about sexual harassment and she explains to us why she now has a clause in her contract to cover it. They also discuss the power and benefits, to both your business and your self-development, of attending industry events. Tune in now, for more! After completing her M.B.A., Beth spent more than ten years in corporate finance, with companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom, honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, and budgeting, and sharpening her attention to detail. Beth's work and her design advice have been featured on television and also in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and the New York Times. Listen in today, to hear Beth's story. Show Highlights: Leaning into your skills and expressing them to your potential clients. The skills that Beth moved over from her corporate life to her design business. Working strategically around budget issues with clients. Keeping the client's expectations realistic. What 'don't save your client's money' really means. Dealing with clients who have unreasonably low budgets. Listening to your gut and having your client trust that you know what is best for them. Coping with situations where a client does not go along with your advice. Beth takes her contracts very seriously. After signing, she sends the client a letter highlighting the important points. What Beth outlines in her welcome letter. Being responsive while still sticking to business hours. Beth explains why she does not feel the need to present her contract to her clients in person. How Beth protects herself and the team she works with. Dealing with sexual harassment. Beth talks about the great press that she has had in her design career. Beth shares some suggestions for running a design firm in a way to prepare yourself to get lucky and be noticed by Open House NYC. Most of Beth's press has come from relationships and networking. Networking from a place of giving. About Kavet's past Blogfests and how they have really helped Beth to grow her business. Bio: Beth Diana Smith is the Owner and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, a New Jersey-based interior design company. Beth, her work, and her design advice have been featured on television and in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue.com, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and The New York Times. But know that interior design came years after pursuing degrees in business and accounting to satiate her love of processes and business strategy. After completing her M.B.A., she spent more than a decade in corporate finance in companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, budgeting, and keen attention to detail.  Links and resources: Beth's Website: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Instagram: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Facebook: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Pinterest: Beth Diana Smith Beth's LinkedIn: Beth Diana Smith Luann Nigara Luann Nigara Book2 Well Designed Article Window Fashion Vision Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Nate Berkus #433 Erika Ward #6 and #278 LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Tue, 18 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations full 439 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, Beth Smith, the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, based in New Jersey, joins me on the show. For Beth, the interior design came years after pursuing her degrees in business and accounting to fulfill her... Welcome! Today, Beth Smith, the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, based in New Jersey, joins me on the show. For Beth, the interior design came years after pursuing her degrees in business and accounting to fulfill her love of processes and business strategy. In today's episode, Beth talks to us about budgets, managing situations, and expectations, and also about sexual harassment and she explains to us why she now has a clause in her contract to cover it. They also discuss the power and benefits, to both your business and your self-development, of attending industry events. Tune in now, for more! After completing her M.B.A., Beth spent more than ten years in corporate finance, with companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom, honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, and budgeting, and sharpening her attention to detail. Beth's work and her design advice have been featured on television and also in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and the New York Times. Listen in today, to hear Beth's story. Show Highlights: Leaning into your skills and expressing them to your potential clients. The skills that Beth moved over from her corporate life to her design business. Working strategically around budget issues with clients. Keeping the client's expectations realistic. What 'don't save your client's money' really means. Dealing with clients who have unreasonably low budgets. Listening to your gut and having your client trust that you know what is best for them. Coping with situations where a client does not go along with your advice. Beth takes her contracts very seriously. After signing, she sends the client a letter highlighting the important points. What Beth outlines in her welcome letter. Being responsive while still sticking to business hours. Beth explains why she does not feel the need to present her contract to her clients in person. How Beth protects herself and the team she works with. Dealing with sexual harassment. Beth talks about the great press that she has had in her design career. Beth shares some suggestions for running a design firm in a way to prepare yourself to get lucky and be noticed by Open House NYC. Most of Beth's press has come from relationships and networking. Networking from a place of giving. About Kavet's past Blogfests and how they have really helped Beth to grow her business. Bio: Beth Diana Smith is the Owner and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, a New Jersey-based interior design company. Beth, her work, and her design advice have been featured on television and in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue.com, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and The New York Times. But know that interior design came years after pursuing degrees in business and accounting to satiate her love of processes and business strategy. After completing her M.B.A., she spent more than a decade in corporate finance in companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, budgeting, and keen attention to detail.  Links and resources: Beth's Website: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Instagram: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Facebook: Beth Diana Smith Beth's Pinterest: Beth Diana Smith Beth's LinkedIn: Beth Diana Smith Luann Nigara Luann Nigara Book2 Well Designed Article Window Fashion Vision Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Nate Berkus #433 Erika Ward #6 and #278 LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually. To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999. Welcome! Today, Beth Smith, the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, based in New Jersey, joins me on the show. For Beth, the interior design came years after pursuing her degrees in business and accounting to fulfill her love of processes and business strategy. In today's episode, Beth talks to us about budgets, managing situations, and expectations, and also about sexual harassment and she explains to us why she now has a clause in her contract to cover it. They also discuss the power and benefits, to both your business and your self-development, of attending industry events. Tune in now, for more!

After completing her M.B.A., Beth spent more than ten years in corporate finance, with companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom, honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, and budgeting, and sharpening her attention to detail. Beth's work and her design advice have been featured on television and also in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and the New York Times. Listen in today, to hear Beth's story.

Show Highlights:

  • Leaning into your skills and expressing them to your potential clients.
  • The skills that Beth moved over from her corporate life to her design business.
  • Working strategically around budget issues with clients.
  • Keeping the client's expectations realistic.
  • What 'don't save your client's money' really means.
  • Dealing with clients who have unreasonably low budgets.
  • Listening to your gut and having your client trust that you know what is best for them.
  • Coping with situations where a client does not go along with your advice.
  • Beth takes her contracts very seriously. After signing, she sends the client a letter highlighting the important points.
  • What Beth outlines in her welcome letter.
  • Being responsive while still sticking to business hours.
  • Beth explains why she does not feel the need to present her contract to her clients in person.
  • How Beth protects herself and the team she works with.
  • Dealing with sexual harassment.
  • Beth talks about the great press that she has had in her design career.
  • Beth shares some suggestions for running a design firm in a way to prepare yourself to get lucky and be noticed by Open House NYC.
  • Most of Beth's press has come from relationships and networking.
  • Networking from a place of giving.
  • About Kavet's past Blogfests and how they have really helped Beth to grow her business.

Bio: Beth Diana Smith is the Owner and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, a New Jersey-based interior design company. Beth, her work, and her design advice have been featured on television and in various print and online publications including NBC, HGTV, Vogue.com, EBONY, Design*Sponge, and The New York Times. But know that interior design came years after pursuing degrees in business and accounting to satiate her love of processes and business strategy. After completing her M.B.A., she spent more than a decade in corporate finance in companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Viacom honing her skills in understanding clients, analytics, budgeting, and keen attention to detail. 

Links and resources:

Beth's Website: Beth Diana Smith

Beth's Instagram: Beth Diana Smith

Beth's Facebook: Beth Diana Smith

Beth's Pinterest: Beth Diana Smith

Beth's LinkedIn: Beth Diana Smith

Luann Nigara

Luann Nigara Book2

Well Designed Article

Window Fashion Vision

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Nate Berkus #433

Erika Ward #6 and #278

LuAnn is repeating her Power Talk Friday Tour this year in Las Vegas. It is a one-day coaching event and it will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and it will run from 8.00am to 11.00pm. It will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, discussions with LuAnn's PTF experts, and four hours of round table discussions, in groups of three or less, with each expert individually.

To get onto LuAnn's email list to get the info, text the word DESIGNBIZ to the number 444999.

]]> 4802 no 438: Power Talk Friday: LinkedIn for Interior Designers- Sarah Santacroce http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/438-power-talk-friday-linkedin-for-interior-designers-sarah-santacroce Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Sarah Santacroce, an internationally recognized LinkedIn Specialist & Online Presence Mentor, joins us on the show. Sarah helps convert your presence online into paying customers, and she is also the creative brain behind the LinkedIn Challenge, an event that has already helped more than 1900 people to improve their knowledge about using LinkedIn for business. Tune in now, to find out more. Sarah, who lives in Switzerland, is known for her simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency mixed with a dose of Californian 'yes we can' attitude. She uses her ability to focus to help you to come up with a strategy to achieve your goals. And with her experience, her skill, her empathy, and her passion, she encourages you and helps you grow your business. She has assisted hundreds of clients from all over the world by generating leads for them via LinkedIn and social serving strategies. In today's episode, Sarah will open your eyes to the untapped potential of Linkedin. Listen in, to learn from Sarah how to breathe life into your LinkedIn profile. Show highlights: Why LinkedIn is actually a great platform for introverts. How LinkedIn has changed since the millennials started showing up and changing things about two years ago. Sarah suggests some strategies for successfully using LinkedIn as a platform. How a great LinkedIn profile can really benefit introverts. Where the power of LinkedIn really lies. On LinkedIn, everything is organized by job titles so you need to figure out who you're going to be working with. Adding more experiences to your LinkedIn profile. Creating a special landing page and linking it to your LinkedIn profile. The biggest mistake Sarah's seen people make. Sarah explains where to start. Your past experience counts for a lot. Building relationships and networking effectively through social serving. LinkedIn is about creating a human connection. Posting visual content to demonstrate that you're an expert in your field. LinkedIn's mission is to be the number one platform for professional content. The amount of time it takes to create a meaningful presence on LinkedIn. Sarah talks about her podcast, Introvert Biz Growth Podcast. Extract from Sarah's website: My clients like to work with me because I’m structured, focused, result oriented, ‘the real thing’.  I’m known for my simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency, mixed with a good dose of Californian ‘yes we can’ attitude! (we lived in California from 2006 - 2010) And she goes on to say: There are a few things I’m good at: My ability to focus on the essentials & come up with the strategy for you to achieve your goals My experience(based on many failures) of getting clients online & what it takes to grow your business My skill to quickly put myself into your client’s shoes & create an offer that he/she can’t resist My empathy, passion& encouragement to use your uniqueness to grow your business Oh, and I'm an Introvert. Links and resources: Sarah's website: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's podcast Sarah's LinkedIn: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's facebook: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's lead magnet: Sarah's Templates LuAnn's Webinar: Join me on Tuesday, June 25th at 1:00 pm est for an exclusive Mydoma Studio webinar on Sales Strategies for Interior Designers! The roles will be reversed and I will be in the hot seat talking about the strategies I have learned. Come prepared with your questions!  You can ask me questions about your business, about tricky conversations with clients, about how to sell more to the same people, about anything you want really. You know me, I just love hanging out with you! Webinar: My Doma Studio Fri, 14 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LinkedIn for Interior Designers- Sarah Santacroce full 438 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Sarah Santacroce, an internationally recognized LinkedIn Specialist & Online Presence Mentor, joins us on the show. Sarah helps convert your presence online into paying customers, and she is also the creative... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Sarah Santacroce, an internationally recognized LinkedIn Specialist & Online Presence Mentor, joins us on the show. Sarah helps convert your presence online into paying customers, and she is also the creative brain behind the LinkedIn Challenge, an event that has already helped more than 1900 people to improve their knowledge about using LinkedIn for business. Tune in now, to find out more. Sarah, who lives in Switzerland, is known for her simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency mixed with a dose of Californian 'yes we can' attitude. She uses her ability to focus to help you to come up with a strategy to achieve your goals. And with her experience, her skill, her empathy, and her passion, she encourages you and helps you grow your business. She has assisted hundreds of clients from all over the world by generating leads for them via LinkedIn and social serving strategies. In today's episode, Sarah will open your eyes to the untapped potential of Linkedin. Listen in, to learn from Sarah how to breathe life into your LinkedIn profile. Show highlights: Why LinkedIn is actually a great platform for introverts. How LinkedIn has changed since the millennials started showing up and changing things about two years ago. Sarah suggests some strategies for successfully using LinkedIn as a platform. How a great LinkedIn profile can really benefit introverts. Where the power of LinkedIn really lies. On LinkedIn, everything is organized by job titles so you need to figure out who you're going to be working with. Adding more experiences to your LinkedIn profile. Creating a special landing page and linking it to your LinkedIn profile. The biggest mistake Sarah's seen people make. Sarah explains where to start. Your past experience counts for a lot. Building relationships and networking effectively through social serving. LinkedIn is about creating a human connection. Posting visual content to demonstrate that you're an expert in your field. LinkedIn's mission is to be the number one platform for professional content. The amount of time it takes to create a meaningful presence on LinkedIn. Sarah talks about her podcast, Introvert Biz Growth Podcast. Extract from Sarah's website: My clients like to work with me because I’m structured, focused, result oriented, ‘the real thing’.  I’m known for my simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency, mixed with a good dose of Californian ‘yes we can’ attitude! (we lived in California from 2006 - 2010) And she goes on to say: There are a few things I’m good at: My ability to focus on the essentials & come up with the strategy for you to achieve your goals My experience(based on many failures) of getting clients online & what it takes to grow your business My skill to quickly put myself into your client’s shoes & create an offer that he/she can’t resist My empathy, passion& encouragement to use your uniqueness to grow your business Oh, and I'm an Introvert. Links and resources: Sarah's website: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's podcast Sarah's LinkedIn: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's facebook: Sarah Santacroce Sarah's lead magnet: Sarah's Templates LuAnn's Webinar: Join me on Tuesday, June 25th at 1:00 pm est for an exclusive Mydoma Studio webinar on Sales Strategies for Interior Designers! The roles will be reversed and I will be in the hot seat talking about the strategies I have learned. Come prepared with your questions!  You can ask me questions about your business, about tricky conversations with clients, about how to sell more to the same people, about anything you want really. You know me, I just love hanging out with you! Webinar: My Doma Studio Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Sarah Santacroce, an internationally recognized LinkedIn Specialist & Online Presence Mentor, joins us on the show. Sarah helps convert your presence online into paying customers, and she is also the creative brain behind the LinkedIn Challenge, an event that has already helped more than 1900 people to improve their knowledge about using LinkedIn for business. Tune in now, to find out more.

Sarah, who lives in Switzerland, is known for her simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency mixed with a dose of Californian 'yes we can' attitude. She uses her ability to focus to help you to come up with a strategy to achieve your goals. And with her experience, her skill, her empathy, and her passion, she encourages you and helps you grow your business. She has assisted hundreds of clients from all over the world by generating leads for them via LinkedIn and social serving strategies. In today's episode, Sarah will open your eyes to the untapped potential of Linkedin. Listen in, to learn from Sarah how to breathe life into your LinkedIn profile.

Show highlights:

  • Why LinkedIn is actually a great platform for introverts.
  • How LinkedIn has changed since the millennials started showing up and changing things about two years ago.
  • Sarah suggests some strategies for successfully using LinkedIn as a platform.
  • How a great LinkedIn profile can really benefit introverts.
  • Where the power of LinkedIn really lies.
  • On LinkedIn, everything is organized by job titles so you need to figure out who you're going to be working with.
  • Adding more experiences to your LinkedIn profile.
  • Creating a special landing page and linking it to your LinkedIn profile.
  • The biggest mistake Sarah's seen people make.
  • Sarah explains where to start.
  • Your past experience counts for a lot.
  • Building relationships and networking effectively through social serving.
  • LinkedIn is about creating a human connection.
  • Posting visual content to demonstrate that you're an expert in your field.
  • LinkedIn's mission is to be the number one platform for professional content.
  • The amount of time it takes to create a meaningful presence on LinkedIn.
  • Sarah talks about her podcast, Introvert Biz Growth Podcast.

Extract from Sarah's website:

My clients like to work with me because I’m structured, focused, result oriented, ‘the real thing’.  I’m known for my simple, no-nonsense Swiss efficiency, mixed with a good dose of Californian ‘yes we can’ attitude! (we lived in California from 2006 - 2010)

And she goes on to say:

There are a few things I’m good at:

  • My ability to focus on the essentials & come up with the strategy for you to achieve your goals
  • My experience(based on many failures) of getting clients online & what it takes to grow your business
  • My skill to quickly put myself into your client’s shoes & create an offer that he/she can’t resist
  • My empathy, passion& encouragement to use your uniqueness to grow your business

Oh, and I'm an Introvert.

Links and resources:

Sarah's website: Sarah Santacroce

Sarah's podcast

Sarah's LinkedIn: Sarah Santacroce

Sarah's facebook: Sarah Santacroce

Sarah's lead magnet: Sarah's Templates

LuAnn's Webinar:

Join me on Tuesday, June 25th at 1:00 pm est for an exclusive Mydoma Studio webinar on Sales Strategies for Interior Designers!

The roles will be reversed and I will be in the hot seat talking about the strategies I have learned.

Come prepared with your questions!  You can ask me questions about your business, about tricky conversations with clients, about how to sell more to the same people, about anything you want really.

You know me, I just love hanging out with you!

Webinar: My Doma Studio

]]> 4356 no 437: High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/437-high-point-market-plan-a-successful-trip Welcome to today's episode! It's time to start thinking about the High Point Market again. If you're wondering why you need to be thinking about it now, you may be surprised to find out that the hotels are already filling up. Also, now is the right time to start mapping out your trip and go to the website at High Point Market to see who the brands are, make your appointments, and get onto the email list so you can be notified of the new product launches, the panels, and the keynote series in the theater, because you really won't want to miss a thing! Listen in today, to find out more. On the show today, we have Ashley Grigg, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority, Lisa Mende, the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jeanne Chung, a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. These three ladies will explain why you need to attend the High Point Market and they will give some great tips for making the most of the experience. They will also discuss the logistics of going to High Point, explain how to make your trip really productive, and share some really useful information about the various tours that are available. You really have to know what to do before you get to High Point, so tune in now, to get all the details. Show Highlights: Why it's really important for interior designers to invest the time and money in going to High Point Market. How half the business is conducted after the market is over. The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people. The way that High Point has really impacted on Jeanne's business. Making great connections at High Point Market. How High Point Market stands out from all the rest. Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners. Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms. Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market. Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point. High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet! Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind. Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point. There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market. Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market. Bios: Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashley has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South’s Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog “The Design Connector” where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers. Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter. About the High Point Market: In October and April each year, the High Point Market attracts more than 75 000 retailers, interior designers, and service providers from more than 100 countries. There are nearly 2000 exhibitor showrooms across 180 buildings, covering twelve million square feet of space. High Point Market was founded in 1909, in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It is the world's longest running home furnishings event and it is the driving force in the home furnishings industry. It is unrivaled in both its size and scope. High Point Market features more Made in the USA furnishings than any other trade show, as well as a wide variety of imported goods, spanning every style, category, and price point. Links and resources:  High Point Market Digital Press Kit Website: High Point Market Ashley's email: ashley@highpointmarket.org To download the app CamCard: CamCard Registration opens mid-July, 2019 for the fall market Fall Market: October 19th-23rd, 2019 When you do go to High Point, please be sure to stop by Kravet’s showroom, located at Market Square, #217 on the 2nd floor. This show was previously aired as #406. Tue, 11 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip full 437 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! It's time to start thinking about the High Point Market again. If you're wondering why you need to be thinking about it now, you may be surprised to find out that the hotels are already filling up. Also, now is the right... Welcome to today's episode! It's time to start thinking about the High Point Market again. If you're wondering why you need to be thinking about it now, you may be surprised to find out that the hotels are already filling up. Also, now is the right time to start mapping out your trip and go to the website at High Point Market to see who the brands are, make your appointments, and get onto the email list so you can be notified of the new product launches, the panels, and the keynote series in the theater, because you really won't want to miss a thing! Listen in today, to find out more. On the show today, we have Ashley Grigg, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority, Lisa Mende, the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jeanne Chung, a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. These three ladies will explain why you need to attend the High Point Market and they will give some great tips for making the most of the experience. They will also discuss the logistics of going to High Point, explain how to make your trip really productive, and share some really useful information about the various tours that are available. You really have to know what to do before you get to High Point, so tune in now, to get all the details. Show Highlights: Why it's really important for interior designers to invest the time and money in going to High Point Market. How half the business is conducted after the market is over. The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people. The way that High Point has really impacted on Jeanne's business. Making great connections at High Point Market. How High Point Market stands out from all the rest. Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners. Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms. Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market. Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point. High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet! Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind. Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point. There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market. Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market. Bios: Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashley has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South’s Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog “The Design Connector” where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers. Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter. About the High Point Market: In October and April each year, the High Point Market attracts more than 75 000 retailers, interior designers, and service providers from more than 100 countries. There are nearly 2000 exhibitor showrooms across 180 buildings, covering twelve million square feet of space. High Point Market was founded in 1909, in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It is the world's longest running home furnishings event and it is the driving force in the home furnishings industry. It is unrivaled in both its size and scope. High Point Market features more Made in the USA furnishings than any other trade show, as well as a wide variety of imported goods, spanning every style, category, and price point. Links and resources:  High Point Market Digital Press Kit Website: High Point Market Ashley's email: ashley@highpointmarket.org To download the app CamCard: CamCard Registration opens mid-July, 2019 for the fall market Fall Market: October 19th-23rd, 2019 When you do go to High Point, please be sure to stop by Kravet’s showroom, located at Market Square, #217 on the 2nd floor. This show was previously aired as #406. Welcome to today's episode! It's time to start thinking about the High Point Market again. If you're wondering why you need to be thinking about it now, you may be surprised to find out that the hotels are already filling up. Also, now is the right time to start mapping out your trip and go to the website at High Point Market to see who the brands are, make your appointments, and get onto the email list so you can be notified of the new product launches, the panels, and the keynote series in the theater, because you really won't want to miss a thing! Listen in today, to find out more.

On the show today, we have Ashley Grigg, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority, Lisa Mende, the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jeanne Chung, a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. These three ladies will explain why you need to attend the High Point Market and they will give some great tips for making the most of the experience. They will also discuss the logistics of going to High Point, explain how to make your trip really productive, and share some really useful information about the various tours that are available. You really have to know what to do before you get to High Point, so tune in now, to get all the details.

Show Highlights:

  • Why it's really important for interior designers to invest the time and money in going to High Point Market.
  • How half the business is conducted after the market is over.
  • The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people.
  • The way that High Point has really impacted on Jeanne's business.
  • Making great connections at High Point Market.
  • How High Point Market stands out from all the rest.
  • Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners.
  • Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms.
  • Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market.
  • Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point.
  • High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet!
  • Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind.
  • Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market
  • Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point.
  • There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market.
  • Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market.

Bios:

Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashley has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management

Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South’s Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog “The Design Connector” where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers.

Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter.

About the High Point Market:

In October and April each year, the High Point Market attracts more than 75 000 retailers, interior designers, and service providers from more than 100 countries. There are nearly 2000 exhibitor showrooms across 180 buildings, covering twelve million square feet of space.

High Point Market was founded in 1909, in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It is the world's longest running home furnishings event and it is the driving force in the home furnishings industry. It is unrivaled in both its size and scope.

High Point Market features more Made in the USA furnishings than any other trade show, as well as a wide variety of imported goods, spanning every style, category, and price point.

Links and resources: 

High Point Market Digital Press Kit

Website: High Point Market

Ashley's email: ashley@highpointmarket.org

To download the app CamCard: CamCard

Registration opens mid-July, 2019 for the fall market

Fall Market: October 19th-23rd, 2019

When you do go to High Point, please be sure to stop by Kravet’s showroom, located at Market Square, #217 on the 2nd floor.

This show was previously aired as #406.

]]> 4763 no 436: Power Talk Friday: Systems: A Love Hate Relationship http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/436-power-talk-friday-systems-a-love-hate-relationship Welcome to today's show! We're turning things around a bit and sharing a replay of LuAnn being interviewed by Amber De La Garza, aka the Productivity Specialist, a while back, when LuAnn was a guest on Amber's show, Productivity Straight Talk. Listen in today, to hear their conversation. In today's episode, LuAnn talks to Amber about the way that she's blended structure, systems, and processes into her business, Window Works, to help it grow to become a two-million dollar company. She talks about her success and her challenges, she shares ways to create structure in your business, and she also gives some questions to ask yourself before making any big decisions. Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to say about her business which has been thriving in the interior design space since 1982. Show highlights: LuAnn describes what her business and her support structure look like. Luann discusses the roles that she, her husband, and their partner each play in their business, and the synergistic way they work together. How the Window Works team came together. LuAnn describes her life before structure. How structure equals freedom and success. How LuAnn woke up to the value of structure. Why you must embrace systems in order to scale. LuAnn and Amber discuss the perils of disorganization. How organization ties into productivity. How time-blocking has really worked for LuAnn. The administrative system that has had the biggest impact on LuAnn's business. Links: A Well-Designed Business Podcast Window Works Original Episode Amber’s Website: Amber Delagarza Amber's Facebook Amber's Instagram Email: Amber@TheProductivitySpecialist.com Book mentioned: The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Fri, 07 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Systems: A Love Hate Relationship full 436 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We're turning things around a bit and sharing a replay of LuAnn being interviewed by Amber De La Garza, aka the Productivity Specialist, a while back, when LuAnn was a guest on Amber's show, Productivity Straight Talk. Listen... Welcome to today's show! We're turning things around a bit and sharing a replay of LuAnn being interviewed by Amber De La Garza, aka the Productivity Specialist, a while back, when LuAnn was a guest on Amber's show, Productivity Straight Talk. Listen in today, to hear their conversation. In today's episode, LuAnn talks to Amber about the way that she's blended structure, systems, and processes into her business, Window Works, to help it grow to become a two-million dollar company. She talks about her success and her challenges, she shares ways to create structure in your business, and she also gives some questions to ask yourself before making any big decisions. Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to say about her business which has been thriving in the interior design space since 1982. Show highlights: LuAnn describes what her business and her support structure look like. Luann discusses the roles that she, her husband, and their partner each play in their business, and the synergistic way they work together. How the Window Works team came together. LuAnn describes her life before structure. How structure equals freedom and success. How LuAnn woke up to the value of structure. Why you must embrace systems in order to scale. LuAnn and Amber discuss the perils of disorganization. How organization ties into productivity. How time-blocking has really worked for LuAnn. The administrative system that has had the biggest impact on LuAnn's business. Links: A Well-Designed Business Podcast Window Works Original Episode Amber’s Website: Amber Delagarza Amber's Facebook Amber's Instagram Email: Amber@TheProductivitySpecialist.com Book mentioned: The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Welcome to today's show! We're turning things around a bit and sharing a replay of LuAnn being interviewed by Amber De La Garza, aka the Productivity Specialist, a while back, when LuAnn was a guest on Amber's show, Productivity Straight Talk. Listen in today, to hear their conversation.

In today's episode, LuAnn talks to Amber about the way that she's blended structure, systems, and processes into her business, Window Works, to help it grow to become a two-million dollar company. She talks about her success and her challenges, she shares ways to create structure in your business, and she also gives some questions to ask yourself before making any big decisions.

Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to say about her business which has been thriving in the interior design space since 1982.

Show highlights:

  • LuAnn describes what her business and her support structure look like.
  • Luann discusses the roles that she, her husband, and their partner each
  • play in their business, and the synergistic way they work together.
  • How the Window Works team came together.
  • LuAnn describes her life before structure.
  • How structure equals freedom and success.
  • How LuAnn woke up to the value of structure.
  • Why you must embrace systems in order to scale.
  • LuAnn and Amber discuss the perils of disorganization.
  • How organization ties into productivity.
  • How time-blocking has really worked for LuAnn.
  • The administrative system that has had the biggest impact on LuAnn's business.

Links:

A Well-Designed Business Podcast Window Works Original Episode Amber’s Website: Amber Delagarza Amber's Facebook Amber's Instagram Email: Amber@TheProductivitySpecialist.com Book mentioned: The E-Myth by Michael Gerber

]]> 3032 no 435: Global Hospitality Interior Design, Juan Carlos Rodriquez Artigas of Wilson Associates http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/435-global-hospitality-interior-design-juan-carlos-rodriquez-artigas-of-wilson-associates Welcome! Today, we have Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Artigas on the show with us. Juan Carlos is an accomplished architect and interior designer with extensive experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial, and residential design. He is currently the design director of the London Studio of the global interior architecture firm, Wilson Associates. Juan Carlos's position is multi-faceted, and in today's episode, he discusses his role and responsibilities, as the firm's design director, where he oversees the day-to-day operations and projects of the London studio. In addition to creating beautiful projects, he has been in charge of the hiring and building of a cohesive and talented team, which he has then had to lead and guide. Also, a large part of his job involves finding, meeting, and creating opportunities for new business for the firm, and he explains that this all starts with relationships and with connecting to people. Tune in now to find out more.  Wilson Associates is a collection of 10 design firms around the world whose work encompasses interior architectural design, architecture, art consultancy, concept development, branding, and food and beverage design. Their portfolio includes some of the most prestigious hospitality projects in the world. Listen in today, to hear what Juan Carlos has to share. Show Highlights: Juan Carlos shares some of his experiences from the past year while building the London studio. The pros and cons of first working for a small firm, and then jumping to a big firm. Juan Carlos shares what he was looking for when hiring his team members. Starting out with a small team and growing organically. When building his team, he was looking for flexibility and team players. That's his secret to creating a small, winning team. Running a small office has involved wearing a number of different hats. Juan describes the difference between his last position and his current one, with Wilson Associates. Creating a strong foundation with the team he built. The kind of skill set that Juan Carlos required his team members to have. Why Juan Carlos prefers working in hospitality, rather than in residential. Having to take into account what the operations team is telling you when designing for hospitality. Juan Carlos describes his superpower and the superpower of Wilson Associates. The way that all the offices of Wilson Associates collaborate and support each other. Even though Wilson Associates is a global team, each studio has its own identity. How Juan Carlos, personally, cultivates a pipeline of hospitality projects. The event that Juan Carlos would recommend for everyone to go to. The biggest challenge that Juan Carlos has faced, that has also been a great lesson for him. Some advice for keeping a pressured team happy and moving. Bio: Role & Responsibility: Juan is an architect and interior designer with an extensive and holistic international experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial and residential design. Combining strengths in architecture and interior design, Juan worked eight years as an independent designer and creative consultant on different high end commercial and residential projects in Spain and abroad. He was Designer Director at Rockwell Group Europe, managing a variety of projects in Asia and the Middle East for some of the most prestigious hospitality brands. He currently leads the recently open Wilson associates London office. In charge of this edition sleep & eat theater. Juan Carlos says: “People ignore design that ignores people” Education: College Degree in Architecture at Universidad Anahuac Mexico City, Mexico Interior design degree/ Instituto Europeo di Design Madrid, Spain Master degree in project management & design Universidad San Pablo Ceu Madrid, Spain Links and resources: Wilson Associates website:  Wilson Associates’ Designer Questionnaire Basics Title: Design Director London Office Languages spoken: English / Spanish and a bit of Italian Education: College Degree in Architecture/ Universidad Anahuac Mexico City Professional accreditations and/or memberships:- Interior design degree/ Istituto Europeo di Design Madrid, Spain –Master degree in project management & design Universidad San Pablo Ceu Madrid, Spain. Tenure at Wilson: March 2018 Quote you live by or your design mantra: “People ignore design that ignores people” Beyond the Basics: What attracted you to Wilson Associates? What do you enjoy most about working here? I’ve always loved a challenge; opening an office for such as important and reputable firm like Wilson Associates in a city like London has been one of the most exciting and rewarding challenges in my career to date. When did you know you wanted to be a designer? I don’t think we ever really know what we want to be, but we do begin doing things we love, and by finding our passion you realize it is something you want to do and be forever. Where do you find your design inspiration? Everything is inspiring if you look and pay attention. Do you have any advice for young designers? Is there any piece of advice you were given early in your career that sticks with you? Don’t be afraid to fail; defend your ideas, but never fall in love with them and always listen to different points-of-views. What are some of your career accomplishments? What projects are you most proud of? Some of my career accomplishments within design come from participating in projects like the recently opened W Suzhou and Hotel Ingles in Madrid, which opened Spring 2018. I have a special affection for high-end residential design, especially a recent penthouse project in Madrid before I entered the hospitality field. What is the most rewarding part of the job? The most challenging? Any project that ends with a shake of hands and smile from a client is an accomplishment. In hospitality, I find the most challenging part of the job is not only working as a designer but as a mediator between a hotel operator and ownership when they have very opposite visions for a project. It is our job to find that common ground and present an end result that pleases all parties. What are your hobbies outside of your work? Any guilty pleasures? I think the best thing you can spend your money on is travel; experiences stay with you forever. I like yoga, meditation and to hit the gym as much as I can. My guilty pleasures include tacos with tons of salsa verde. You can also put poison into strawberries with chocolate and I would never notice! What is your favorite restaurant, hotel and overall destination to visit? My favorite restaurant is a classic Spanish restaurant in Madrid called El Paraguas. From a designer perspective, The Jane in Antwerp, Belgium is always worth visiting and I most recently visited a small boutique hotel in Paris called Maison Breguet that was just lovely.  My favorite hotel and destination are a hidden place off the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico called Zipolite, but please don’t spread the word! Mallorca in Spain is also always a good idea. Which designers and/or artists inspire you? Luis Barragan, Piet Boon, Carlo Scarpa, Lázaro Rosa Violán If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be? Definitely an interior designer. Topics or aspects of design you’re comfortable discussing with the media or on a panel? F&B, Changing trends in the hospitality area, hotel room experiences. What are some panels, events/conferences, colleges/professional groups and events, blogs/media you would like to participate in? Anything related to interior and hospitality design. List three lessons, systems or business techniques you learned at previous positions in and out of the industry. You need to get the right players on your team. Great ideas come from various minds, so it’s important to recruit the best team members and invest in the growth and empowerment of your team. Don’t fall in love with your ideas and always be ready to alter them, especially in hospitality design where revenue plays an important role. Remain optimistic while maintaining realistic expectations as to what you are capable of delivering by a specific deadline with the resources you have. Sometimes it’s better to have quality results than quantity. Finally, I would also make sure that what you are able to deliver what is written in the contract. Name 2-3 challenges in running a design firm? One of the main challenges of running a design firm today with all the constant stream of communication and information from the media is creating a space that not only makes a difference but offers some sort of engagement for the user in order to create brand loyalty. How do we as designers create an emotional link between the user and the space? We have to think about what would draw them in and how do we design an area that will become a part of their lives and experiences. There’s a lot of competition out there and you need to question if what are you offering is unique. Design? Customer service? Or both? The second biggest challenge one might encounter when running a design firm is ensuring your team is happy and engaged with what they do. You want to pull out their very best work without forgetting the human component; there is nothing worse than a burned-out team and it will ultimately affect deadlines and the bottom line. Build an individual identity for your brand. There is always a lot of competition within the field but creating a brand and positive reputation will go a long way. Do you have a superpower…what makes your firm different? With 10 global offices in various parts of the world, our designers speak over 30 languages and offer backgrounds and cultures that complement one another. We live and think outside the box, enabling us to design for every kind of client and market. Although each office has its own identity to some degree, we all live under the Wilson Associates umbrella and work as a team.  Do you have a client onboarding process? Having been in the business for nearly 50 years, we have a legacy for upholding the highest standard in client customer service. We analyze their needs and offer a wide range of services that make for a tailor-made and unique experience. As we’ve grown, we’ve continued to evolve and reinvent ourselves within the hospitality and F&B industries, while still maintaining that same level of top-notch service. List the steps critical for successfully running a client project. Connect with the client from the very beginning by listening to their needs, making them feel comfortable and heard, and building trust. Be honest and upfront about budget Set realistic timelines and don’t overpromise if you know you can’t deliver Have you ever received a piece of advice regarding running a business that was truly valuable? The best contribution you can make to your client is to be as authentic as possible. Stay grounded and true to who you are. Also remain open to new ideas and sources, gathering as much data collection as possible, not just digital sources like Pinterest. I find looking outside interior design exhibitions and at the real world is the most inspiring. Inspiration does not necessarily come from beauty. Tue, 04 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Global Hospitality Interior Design, Juan Carlos Rodriquez Artigas of Wilson Associates full 435 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we have Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Artigas on the show with us. Juan Carlos is an accomplished architect and interior designer with extensive experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial, and residential design. He is... Welcome! Today, we have Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Artigas on the show with us. Juan Carlos is an accomplished architect and interior designer with extensive experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial, and residential design. He is currently the design director of the London Studio of the global interior architecture firm, Wilson Associates. Juan Carlos's position is multi-faceted, and in today's episode, he discusses his role and responsibilities, as the firm's design director, where he oversees the day-to-day operations and projects of the London studio. In addition to creating beautiful projects, he has been in charge of the hiring and building of a cohesive and talented team, which he has then had to lead and guide. Also, a large part of his job involves finding, meeting, and creating opportunities for new business for the firm, and he explains that this all starts with relationships and with connecting to people. Tune in now to find out more.  Wilson Associates is a collection of 10 design firms around the world whose work encompasses interior architectural design, architecture, art consultancy, concept development, branding, and food and beverage design. Their portfolio includes some of the most prestigious hospitality projects in the world. Listen in today, to hear what Juan Carlos has to share. Show Highlights: Juan Carlos shares some of his experiences from the past year while building the London studio. The pros and cons of first working for a small firm, and then jumping to a big firm. Juan Carlos shares what he was looking for when hiring his team members. Starting out with a small team and growing organically. When building his team, he was looking for flexibility and team players. That's his secret to creating a small, winning team. Running a small office has involved wearing a number of different hats. Juan describes the difference between his last position and his current one, with Wilson Associates. Creating a strong foundation with the team he built. The kind of skill set that Juan Carlos required his team members to have. Why Juan Carlos prefers working in hospitality, rather than in residential. Having to take into account what the operations team is telling you when designing for hospitality. Juan Carlos describes his superpower and the superpower of Wilson Associates. The way that all the offices of Wilson Associates collaborate and support each other. Even though Wilson Associates is a global team, each studio has its own identity. How Juan Carlos, personally, cultivates a pipeline of hospitality projects. The event that Juan Carlos would recommend for everyone to go to. The biggest challenge that Juan Carlos has faced, that has also been a great lesson for him. Some advice for keeping a pressured team happy and moving. Bio: Role & Responsibility: Juan is an architect and interior designer with an extensive and holistic international experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial and residential design. Combining strengths in architecture and interior design, Juan worked eight years as an independent designer and creative consultant on different high end commercial and residential projects in Spain and abroad. He was Designer Director at Rockwell Group Europe, managing a variety of projects in Asia and the Middle East for some of the most prestigious hospitality brands. He currently leads the recently open Wilson associates London office. In charge of this edition sleep & eat theater. Juan Carlos says: “People ignore design that ignores people” Education: College Degree in Architecture at Universidad Anahuac Mexico City, Mexico Interior design degree/ Instituto Europeo di Design Madrid, Spain Master degree in project management & design Universidad San Pablo Ceu Madrid, Spain Links and resources: Wilson Associates website:  Wilson Associates’ Designer Questionnaire Basics Title: Design Director London Office Languages spoken: English / Spanish and a bit of Italian Education: College Degree in Architecture/ Universidad Anahuac Mexico City Professional accreditations and/or memberships:- Interior design degree/ Istituto Europeo di Design Madrid, Spain –Master degree in project management & design Universidad San Pablo Ceu Madrid, Spain. Tenure at Wilson: March 2018 Quote you live by or your design mantra: “People ignore design that ignores people” Beyond the Basics: What attracted you to Wilson Associates? What do you enjoy most about working here? I’ve always loved a challenge; opening an office for such as important and reputable firm like Wilson Associates in a city like London has been one of the most exciting and rewarding challenges in my career to date. When did you know you wanted to be a designer? I don’t think we ever really know what we want to be, but we do begin doing things we love, and by finding our passion you realize it is something you want to do and be forever. Where do you find your design inspiration? Everything is inspiring if you look and pay attention. Do you have any advice for young designers? Is there any piece of advice you were given early in your career that sticks with you? Don’t be afraid to fail; defend your ideas, but never fall in love with them and always listen to different points-of-views. What are some of your career accomplishments? What projects are you most proud of? Some of my career accomplishments within design come from participating in projects like the recently opened W Suzhou and Hotel Ingles in Madrid, which opened Spring 2018. I have a special affection for high-end residential design, especially a recent penthouse project in Madrid before I entered the hospitality field. What is the most rewarding part of the job? The most challenging? Any project that ends with a shake of hands and smile from a client is an accomplishment. In hospitality, I find the most challenging part of the job is not only working as a designer but as a mediator between a hotel operator and ownership when they have very opposite visions for a project. It is our job to find that common ground and present an end result that pleases all parties. What are your hobbies outside of your work? Any guilty pleasures? I think the best thing you can spend your money on is travel; experiences stay with you forever. I like yoga, meditation and to hit the gym as much as I can. My guilty pleasures include tacos with tons of salsa verde. You can also put poison into strawberries with chocolate and I would never notice! What is your favorite restaurant, hotel and overall destination to visit? My favorite restaurant is a classic Spanish restaurant in Madrid called El Paraguas. From a designer perspective, The Jane in Antwerp, Belgium is always worth visiting and I most recently visited a small boutique hotel in Paris called Maison Breguet that was just lovely.  My favorite hotel and destination are a hidden place off the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico called Zipolite, but please don’t spread the word! Mallorca in Spain is also always a good idea. Which designers and/or artists inspire you? Luis Barragan, Piet Boon, Carlo Scarpa, Lázaro Rosa Violán If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be? Definitely an interior designer. Topics or aspects of design you’re comfortable discussing with the media or on a panel? F&B, Changing trends in the hospitality area, hotel room experiences. What are some panels, events/conferences, colleges/professional groups and events, blogs/media you would like to participate in? Anything related to interior and hospitality design. List three lessons, systems or business techniques you learned at previous positions in and out of the industry. You need to get the right players on your team. Great ideas come from various minds, so it’s important to recruit the best team members and invest in the growth and empowerment of your team. Don’t fall in love with your ideas and always be ready to alter them, especially in hospitality design where revenue plays an important role. Remain optimistic while maintaining realistic expectations as to what you are capable of delivering by a specific deadline with the resources you have. Sometimes it’s better to have quality results than quantity. Finally, I would also make sure that what you are able to deliver what is written in the contract. Name 2-3 challenges in running a design firm? One of the main challenges of running a design firm today with all the constant stream of communication and information from the media is creating a space that not only makes a difference but offers some sort of engagement for the user in order to create brand loyalty. How do we as designers create an emotional link between the user and the space? We have to think about what would draw them in and how do we design an area that will become a part of their lives and experiences. There’s a lot of competition out there and you need to question if what are you offering is unique. Design? Customer service? Or both? The second biggest challenge one might encounter when running a design firm is ensuring your team is happy and engaged with what they do. You want to pull out their very best work without forgetting the human component; there is nothing worse than a burned-out team and it will ultimately affect deadlines and the bottom line. Build an individual identity for your brand. There is always a lot of competition within the field but creating a brand and positive reputation will go a long way. Do you have a superpower…what makes your firm different? With 10 global offices in various parts of the world, our designers speak over 30 languages and offer backgrounds and cultures that complement one another. We live and think outside the box, enabling us to design for every kind of client and market. Although each office has its own identity to some degree, we all live under the Wilson Associates umbrella and work as a team.  Do you have a client onboarding process? Having been in the business for nearly 50 years, we have a legacy for upholding the highest standard in client customer service. We analyze their needs and offer a wide range of services that make for a tailor-made and unique experience. As we’ve grown, we’ve continued to evolve and reinvent ourselves within the hospitality and F&B industries, while still maintaining that same level of top-notch service. List the steps critical for successfully running a client project. Connect with the client from the very beginning by listening to their needs, making them feel comfortable and heard, and building trust. Be honest and upfront about budget Set realistic timelines and don’t overpromise if you know you can’t deliver Have you ever received a piece of advice regarding running a business that was truly valuable? The best contribution you can make to your client is to be as authentic as possible. Stay grounded and true to who you are. Also remain open to new ideas and sources, gathering as much data collection as possible, not just digital sources like Pinterest. I find looking outside interior design exhibitions and at the real world is the most inspiring. Inspiration does not necessarily come from beauty. Welcome! Today, we have Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Artigas on the show with us. Juan Carlos is an accomplished architect and interior designer with extensive experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant, commercial, and residential design. He is currently the design director of the London Studio of the global interior architecture firm, Wilson Associates. Juan Carlos's position is multi-faceted, and in today's episode, he discusses his role and responsibilities, as the firm's design director, where he oversees the day-to-day operations and projects of the London studio. In addition to creating beautiful projects, he has been in charge of the hiring and building of a cohesive and talented team, which he has then had to lead and guide. Also, a large part of his job involves finding, meeting, and creating opportunities for new business for the firm, and he explains that this all starts with relationships and with connecting to people. Tune in now to find out more. 

Wilson Associates is a collection of 10 design firms around the world whose work encompasses interior architectural design, architecture, art consultancy, concept development, branding, and food and beverage design. Their portfolio includes some of the most prestigious hospitality projects in the world. Listen in today, to hear what Juan Carlos has to share.

Show Highlights:

  • Juan Carlos shares some of his experiences from the past year while building the London studio.
  • The pros and cons of first working for a small firm, and then jumping to a big firm.
  • Juan Carlos shares what he was looking for when hiring his team members.
  • Starting out with a small team and growing organically.
  • When building his team, he was looking for flexibility and team players. That's his secret to creating a small, winning team.
  • Running a small office has involved wearing a number of different hats.
  • Juan describes the difference between his last position and his current one, with Wilson Associates.
  • Creating a strong foundation with the team he built.
  • The kind of skill set that Juan Carlos required his team members to have.
  • Why Juan Carlos prefers working in hospitality, rather than in residential.
  • Having to take into account what the operations team is telling you when designing for hospitality.
  • Juan Carlos describes his superpower and the superpower of Wilson Associates.
  • The way that all the offices of Wilson Associates collaborate and support each other.
  • Even though Wilson Associates is a global team, each studio has its own identity.
  • How Juan Carlos, personally, cultivates a pipeline of hospitality projects.
  • The event that Juan Carlos would recommend for everyone to go to.
  • The biggest challenge that Juan Carlos has faced, that has also been a great lesson for him.
  • Some advice for keeping a pressured team happy and moving.

Bio:

Role & Responsibility:

Juan is an architect and interior designer with an extensive and

holistic international experience in high-end hospitality, restaurant,

commercial and residential design.

Combining strengths in architecture and interior design, Juan worked

eight years as an independent designer and creative consultant on

different high end commercial and residential projects in Spain and

abroad.

He was Designer Director at Rockwell Group Europe, managing a

variety of projects in Asia and the Middle East for some of the most

prestigious hospitality brands.

He currently leads the recently open Wilson associates London office.

In charge of this edition sleep & eat theater.

Juan Carlos says:

“People ignore design that

ignores people”

Education:

College Degree in

Architecture at Universidad

Anahuac Mexico City, Mexico

Interior design degree/

Instituto Europeo di Design

Madrid, Spain

Master degree in project

management & design

Universidad San Pablo Ceu

Madrid, Spain

Links and resources:

Wilson Associates website:  Wilson Associates’

Designer Questionnaire

Basics

  • Title: Design Director London Office
  • Languages spoken: English / Spanish and a bit of Italian
  • Education: College Degree in Architecture/ Universidad Anahuac Mexico City
  • Professional accreditations and/or memberships:- Interior design degree/ Istituto Europeo di Design Madrid, Spain –Master degree in project management & design Universidad San Pablo Ceu Madrid, Spain.
  • Tenure at Wilson: March 2018
  • Quote you live by or your design mantra: “People ignore design that ignores people”

Beyond the Basics:

  • What attracted you to Wilson Associates? What do you enjoy most about working here?

I’ve always loved a challenge; opening an office for such as important and reputable firm like Wilson Associates in a city like London has been one of the most exciting and rewarding challenges in my career to date.

  • When did you know you wanted to be a designer?

I don’t think we ever really know what we want to be, but we do begin doing things we love, and by finding our passion you realize it is something you want to do and be forever.

  • Where do you find your design inspiration? Everything is inspiring if you look and pay attention.
  • Do you have any advice for young designers? Is there any piece of advice you were given early in your career that sticks with you?

Don’t be afraid to fail; defend your ideas, but never fall in love with them and always listen to different points-of-views.

  • What are some of your career accomplishments? What projects are you most proud of?

Some of my career accomplishments within design come from participating in projects like the recently opened W Suzhou and Hotel Ingles in Madrid, which opened Spring 2018. I have a special affection for high-end residential design, especially a recent penthouse project in Madrid before I entered the hospitality field.

  • What is the most rewarding part of the job? The most challenging?

Any project that ends with a shake of hands and smile from a client is an accomplishment. In hospitality, I find the most challenging part of the job is not only working as a designer but as a mediator between a hotel operator and ownership when they have very opposite visions for a project. It is our job to find that common ground and present an end result that pleases all parties.

  • What are your hobbies outside of your work? Any guilty pleasures?

I think the best thing you can spend your money on is travel; experiences stay with you forever. I like yoga, meditation and to hit the gym as much as I can. My guilty pleasures include tacos with tons of salsa verde. You can also put poison into strawberries with chocolate and I would never notice!

  • What is your favorite restaurant, hotel and overall destination to visit?

My favorite restaurant is a classic Spanish restaurant in Madrid called El Paraguas.

From a designer perspective, The Jane in Antwerp, Belgium is always worth visiting and I most recently visited a small boutique hotel in Paris called Maison Breguet that was just lovely.  My favorite hotel and destination are a hidden place off the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico called Zipolite, but please don’t spread the word! Mallorca in Spain is also always a good idea.

  • Which designers and/or artists inspire you?

Luis Barragan, Piet Boon, Carlo Scarpa, Lázaro Rosa Violán

  • If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be?

Definitely an interior designer.

  • Topics or aspects of design you’re comfortable discussing with the media or on a panel?

F&B, Changing trends in the hospitality area, hotel room experiences.

  • What are some panels, events/conferences, colleges/professional groups and events, blogs/media you would like to participate in? Anything related to interior and hospitality design.

List three lessons, systems or business techniques you learned at previous positions in and out of the industry.

  • You need to get the right players on your team. Great ideas come from various minds, so it’s important to recruit the best team members and invest in the growth and empowerment of your team.
  • Don’t fall in love with your ideas and always be ready to alter them, especially in hospitality design where revenue plays an important role.
  • Remain optimistic while maintaining realistic expectations as to what you are capable of delivering by a specific deadline with the resources you have. Sometimes it’s better to have quality results than quantity. Finally, I would also make sure that what you are able to deliver what is written in the contract.

Name 2-3 challenges in running a design firm?

  • One of the main challenges of running a design firm today with all the constant stream of communication and information from the media is creating a space that not only makes a difference but offers some sort of engagement for the user in order to create brand loyalty. How do we as designers create an emotional link between the user and the space? We have to think about what would draw them in and how do we design an area that will become a part of their lives and experiences. There’s a lot of competition out there and you need to question if what are you offering is unique. Design? Customer service? Or both?
  • The second biggest challenge one might encounter when running a design firm is ensuring your team is happy and engaged with what they do. You want to pull out their very best work without forgetting the human component; there is nothing worse than a burned-out team and it will ultimately affect deadlines and the bottom line.
  • Build an individual identity for your brand. There is always a lot of competition within the field but creating a brand and positive reputation will go a long way.

Do you have a superpower…what makes your firm different?

With 10 global offices in various parts of the world, our designers speak over 30 languages and offer backgrounds and cultures that complement one another. We live and think outside the box, enabling us to design for every kind of client and market. Although each office has its own identity to some degree, we all live under the Wilson Associates umbrella and work as a team. 

Do you have a client onboarding process?

Having been in the business for nearly 50 years, we have a legacy for upholding the highest standard in client customer service. We analyze their needs and offer a wide range of services that make for a tailor-made and unique experience. As we’ve grown, we’ve continued to evolve and reinvent ourselves within the hospitality and F&B industries, while still maintaining that same level of top-notch service.

List the steps critical for successfully running a client project.

  • Connect with the client from the very beginning by listening to their needs, making them feel comfortable and heard, and building trust.
  • Be honest and upfront about budget
  • Set realistic timelines and don’t overpromise if you know you can’t deliver

Have you ever received a piece of advice regarding running a business that was truly valuable?

The best contribution you can make to your client is to be as authentic as possible. Stay grounded and true to who you are. Also remain open to new ideas and sources, gathering as much data collection as possible, not just digital sources like Pinterest. I find looking outside interior design exhibitions and at the real world is the most inspiring. Inspiration does not necessarily come from beauty.

]]> 3598 no 434: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Should I Be Worried? The 26 Episodes You Should Not Miss http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/434-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-should-i-be-worried-the-26-episodes-you-should-not-miss Welcome to another solo Power Talk Friday! We hope you're ready for a really out-of-the-box episode today! This morning, as on most weekday mornings, LuAnn was reading the Dear Abby column. She's often thought about it and wondered why she reads it because it's such a crazy, mindless column. People write in with very real and heartbreaking problems and yet they are willing to wait for months to get an answer. That really boggles LuAnn's mind! So, this morning, she was talking out loud and ranting about it, in the very same way she did at the LuAnn Nigara Live event last month when she got really upset about designers not charging their worth. Then she had an idea! Tune in now, to find out what she came up with. Sometimes, in our businesses, when we know that things aren't quite right, we pretend that it's just not that big of a deal. So we avoid having the hard conversation or doing the hard thing. Today, LuAnn has come up with some of the top things she has found that we, as business owners, tend to convince ourselves are okay when they really are not. She has listed all the shows that go with these difficulties, so listen in today, to find out which action to take to correct each these problems. Show Highlights: LuAnn reads this morning's Dear Abby column. People tend to forget that they have a choice. LuAnn has no idea what it costs to run her business and she has no idea of the minimum billable hours that she must log each week. Should she be worried? Listen to Alinda Morris’ episode #429. Month after month I let my bookkeeper do everything, with no accountability, with no oversight on my part. Should I be worried? Listen to Andrea Schumacher’s lesson in episode #86. I don’t know how to talk to my CPA. Should I be worried? Listen to Peter Lang in episode #349. I really want to be an interior designer but I can’t get out of my day job. Should I be worried? If you want a plan to get out and do what you’re meant to do, listen to Cheryl Luckett of Dwell by Cheryl in episodes #291 and #397. I’m not really making any money in my design firm, but it’s only been a few years in business. Should I be worried? Listen to Kimberley Kay in episode #234, Cat French in episode #376, and Alyce Lopez, in episode #382. I don’t know anything about home staging but I’m a designer so should I be worried? Listen to Shauna Lynn Simon in episode # 84. Also, Taylor will be back at the end of the summer. They don't talk much about home staging but if you missed her first show, listen to episode #106. Everybody says I should be doing video for my business but I hate it. Should I be worried? Listen to Arianne Bellizaire, in episode #20, talk about how she uses video in her firm and then listen to Claire Jefford teach you how to do it in episode #237. I don’t know my gross sales for 2018? I don’t know how to figure it out. Should I be worried? Listen to the shows with Michele Williams #180 #395. And her own podcast: Profit is a Choice. I run a business but I don’t take a salary, should I be worried? Listen to Kimberley Merlitti’s episode on what you really are earning with your hourly fee, in episode #361. I don’t have an email list. Should I be worried? Listen to Kae Whitakers show, episodes #’s 259 and #274. I know in my gut I need to re-brand and I want to but I’m afraid? Should I be worried? Listen to Kristen Thomas, episode #314 and Sandra Funk #145. I have a big dream for my business but I’m not sure it’ll work, so I do nothing. Should I be worried? Listen to Lori Weitzner’s episode #308 and Caitlyn Waite’s episode #284. I have an employee that I know is not a good fit but I’m afraid to have the hard conversation? Should I be worried? Listen to episode #101 with Joni Vanderslice, episode #364 with Janelle Photopoulos, and Eileen Hahn, episode #363. I’m a horrible salesperson. Should I be worried? Listen to Madeleine MacRae #315 and last Friday solo’s show #432 Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Alinda Morris #429 Andrea Schumacher #86 Peter Lang #349 Cheryl Luckett of Dwell by Cheryl # 291 and #397 Kimberley Kay #234 Cat French #376 Alyce Lopez #382 Shauna Lynn Simon #84 Taylor #106 Arianne Bellizaire #20 Claire Jefford #237 Michele Williams # 180 and # 395. Her Podcast, Profit is a Choice Listen Notes: Profit Is A Choice Michele Williams Kimberley Merlitti #361 Kae Whitaker #259 and 274 Kristen Thomas #314 Sandra Funk #145 Lori Weitzner #308 Caitlyn Waite #284 Joni Vanderslice #101 Janelle Photopoulos #364 Eileen Hahn #363 Madeleine MacRae #315 Last Friday's Solo Show #432 Links: LuAnn's sales course: Sales For Creatives   LuAnn's new book: LuAnn Nigara: Book2  Fri, 31 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Should I Be Worried? The 26 Episodes You Should Not Miss full 434 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another solo Power Talk Friday! We hope you're ready for a really out-of-the-box episode today! This morning, as on most weekday mornings, LuAnn was reading the Dear Abby column. She's often thought about it and wondered why she reads it... Welcome to another solo Power Talk Friday! We hope you're ready for a really out-of-the-box episode today! This morning, as on most weekday mornings, LuAnn was reading the Dear Abby column. She's often thought about it and wondered why she reads it because it's such a crazy, mindless column. People write in with very real and heartbreaking problems and yet they are willing to wait for months to get an answer. That really boggles LuAnn's mind! So, this morning, she was talking out loud and ranting about it, in the very same way she did at the LuAnn Nigara Live event last month when she got really upset about designers not charging their worth. Then she had an idea! Tune in now, to find out what she came up with. Sometimes, in our businesses, when we know that things aren't quite right, we pretend that it's just not that big of a deal. So we avoid having the hard conversation or doing the hard thing. Today, LuAnn has come up with some of the top things she has found that we, as business owners, tend to convince ourselves are okay when they really are not. She has listed all the shows that go with these difficulties, so listen in today, to find out which action to take to correct each these problems. Show Highlights: LuAnn reads this morning's Dear Abby column. People tend to forget that they have a choice. LuAnn has no idea what it costs to run her business and she has no idea of the minimum billable hours that she must log each week. Should she be worried? Listen to Alinda Morris’ episode #429. Month after month I let my bookkeeper do everything, with no accountability, with no oversight on my part. Should I be worried? Listen to Andrea Schumacher’s lesson in episode #86. I don’t know how to talk to my CPA. Should I be worried? Listen to Peter Lang in episode #349. I really want to be an interior designer but I can’t get out of my day job. Should I be worried? If you want a plan to get out and do what you’re meant to do, listen to Cheryl Luckett of Dwell by Cheryl in episodes #291 and #397. I’m not really making any money in my design firm, but it’s only been a few years in business. Should I be worried? Listen to Kimberley Kay in episode #234, Cat French in episode #376, and Alyce Lopez, in episode #382. I don’t know anything about home staging but I’m a designer so should I be worried? Listen to Shauna Lynn Simon in episode # 84. Also, Taylor will be back at the end of the summer. They don't talk much about home staging but if you missed her first show, listen to episode #106. Everybody says I should be doing video for my business but I hate it. Should I be worried? Listen to Arianne Bellizaire, in episode #20, talk about how she uses video in her firm and then listen to Claire Jefford teach you how to do it in episode #237. I don’t know my gross sales for 2018? I don’t know how to figure it out. Should I be worried? Listen to the shows with Michele Williams #180 #395. And her own podcast: Profit is a Choice. I run a business but I don’t take a salary, should I be worried? Listen to Kimberley Merlitti’s episode on what you really are earning with your hourly fee, in episode #361. I don’t have an email list. Should I be worried? Listen to Kae Whitakers show, episodes #’s 259 and #274. I know in my gut I need to re-brand and I want to but I’m afraid? Should I be worried? Listen to Kristen Thomas, episode #314 and Sandra Funk #145. I have a big dream for my business but I’m not sure it’ll work, so I do nothing. Should I be worried? Listen to Lori Weitzner’s episode #308 and Caitlyn Waite’s episode #284. I have an employee that I know is not a good fit but I’m afraid to have the hard conversation? Should I be worried? Listen to episode #101 with Joni Vanderslice, episode #364 with Janelle Photopoulos, and Eileen Hahn, episode #363. I’m a horrible salesperson. Should I be worried? Listen to Madeleine MacRae #315 and last Friday solo’s show #432 Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Alinda Morris #429 Andrea Schumacher #86 Peter Lang #349 Cheryl Luckett of Dwell by Cheryl # 291 and #397 Kimberley Kay #234 Cat French #376 Alyce Lopez #382 Shauna Lynn Simon #84 Taylor #106 Arianne Bellizaire #20 Claire Jefford #237 Michele Williams # 180 and # 395. Her Podcast, Profit is a Choice Listen Notes: Profit Is A Choice Michele Williams Kimberley Merlitti #361 Kae Whitaker #259 and 274 Kristen Thomas #314 Sandra Funk #145 Lori Weitzner #308 Caitlyn Waite #284 Joni Vanderslice #101 Janelle Photopoulos #364 Eileen Hahn #363 Madeleine MacRae #315 Last Friday's Solo Show #432 Links: LuAnn's sales course: Sales For Creatives   LuAnn's new book: LuAnn Nigara: Book2  Welcome to another solo Power Talk Friday! We hope you're ready for a really out-of-the-box episode today! This morning, as on most weekday mornings, LuAnn was reading the Dear Abby column. She's often thought about it and wondered why she reads it because it's such a crazy, mindless column. People write in with very real and heartbreaking problems and yet they are willing to wait for months to get an answer. That really boggles LuAnn's mind! So, this morning, she was talking out loud and ranting about it, in the very same way she did at the LuAnn Nigara Live event last month when she got really upset about designers not charging their worth. Then she had an idea! Tune in now, to find out what she came up with.

Sometimes, in our businesses, when we know that things aren't quite right, we pretend that it's just not that big of a deal. So we avoid having the hard conversation or doing the hard thing. Today, LuAnn has come up with some of the top things she has found that we, as business owners, tend to convince ourselves are okay when they really are not. She has listed all the shows that go with these difficulties, so listen in today, to find out which action to take to correct each these problems.

Show Highlights:

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Alinda Morris #429

Andrea Schumacher #86

Peter Lang #349

Cheryl Luckett of Dwell by Cheryl # 291 and #397

Kimberley Kay #234

Cat French #376

Alyce Lopez #382

Shauna Lynn Simon #84

Taylor #106

Arianne Bellizaire #20

Claire Jefford #237

Michele Williams # 180 and # 395. Her Podcast, Profit is a Choice Listen Notes: Profit Is A Choice Michele Williams

Kimberley Merlitti #361

Kae Whitaker #259 and 274

Kristen Thomas #314

Sandra Funk #145

Lori Weitzner #308

Caitlyn Waite #284

Joni Vanderslice #101

Janelle Photopoulos #364

Eileen Hahn #363

Madeleine MacRae #315

Last Friday's Solo Show #432

Links:

LuAnn's sales course: Sales For Creatives  

LuAnn's new book: LuAnn Nigara: Book2 

]]> 2860 no 433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/433-nate-berkus-introducing-his-collection-with-kravet Welcome to a very special episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today Nate Berkus joins us on the show! We really have lots to talk to him about, and at the top of the list is his first collection with Kravet Inc. This collection, called Well-Traveled, launching in June 2019 is a luxurious mix of chenille’s, statement cotton and linen prints as well as intricate embroideries, and velvet. In today's show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate's travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate's approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah. Show Highlights: Nate talks about his new venture, in collaboration with Kravet Inc, which launches in June 2019. Nate has really enjoyed working with the passionate, creative team at Kravet Inc! LuAnn is looking forward to featuring some of Nate's collection in her newly-renovated showroom at Window Works. Nate explains what inspired him to start his own interior design firm at the age of twenty-four. Nate talks about what he set out to do when he first started out on his own. The impact that social media has had on the interior design industry. Running his business like a Fortune 500 company with systems, procedures and cross checks. Nate explains why creating an exceptional client experience has always been as important to him as the creativity their team produces. Why you can't separate who you are professionally from who you are personally. The importance of being honest and transparent- and owning your mistakes. Always remember that you can't change your reputation. It follows you wherever you go. Nate talks about his creative director, Lauren Buxbaum Gordon, the team she leads, the way that they support one another and their process for managing interior design projects. Nate explains why he decided not to close his design firm in 2006. The magical way that Nate got to meet and work with Oprah. Even when faced with a one of a kind opportunity, Nate made decisions based on sound business principles, exemplifying true professional leadership as an interior design firm owner. The moment when Oprah told America to remember Nate's name. Nate personal work ethic is to work as hard or harder than anyone he collaborates with. He feels it shows respect and creates an environment for more collaboration. His dear friend, former Co-President of Oprah Winfrey Network and President of Harp Productions, Sheri Salata, married Nick and Jeremiah Brent. Nancy Hala, Sheri’s business partner, and co-host on their podcast, Sheri and Nancy, is a previous guest on A Well-Designed Business, episode #377 Sheri Salata, Nancy Hala, Nate and Jeremiah partner in a media company called Story. Nate discusses how he and Jeremiah work together on interior design projects and how important it is when you are in business with your spouse to respect each other's opinions. Nate gives his best advice for growing a profitable design firm. Bio: Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018.  Links: Website: Nate Berkus Instagram: Nate Berkus Facebook: Nate Berkus Pinterest: Nate Berkus Nate And Jeremiah By Design is on TLC on Saturday nights. Nate’s fabric collection with Kravet Inc. is called Well-Traveled. In spring 2019 Nate and Jeremiah launched a new line of furniture, with over 300 pieces, for Living Spaces, a retailer on the west coast of the US. Recommended book: The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker Tue, 28 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet full 433 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a very special episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today Nate Berkus joins us on the show! We really have lots to talk to him about, and at the top of the list is his first collection with Kravet Inc. This collection, called Well-Traveled,... Welcome to a very special episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today Nate Berkus joins us on the show! We really have lots to talk to him about, and at the top of the list is his first collection with Kravet Inc. This collection, called Well-Traveled, launching in June 2019 is a luxurious mix of chenille’s, statement cotton and linen prints as well as intricate embroideries, and velvet. In today's show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate's travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate's approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah. Show Highlights: Nate talks about his new venture, in collaboration with Kravet Inc, which launches in June 2019. Nate has really enjoyed working with the passionate, creative team at Kravet Inc! LuAnn is looking forward to featuring some of Nate's collection in her newly-renovated showroom at Window Works. Nate explains what inspired him to start his own interior design firm at the age of twenty-four. Nate talks about what he set out to do when he first started out on his own. The impact that social media has had on the interior design industry. Running his business like a Fortune 500 company with systems, procedures and cross checks. Nate explains why creating an exceptional client experience has always been as important to him as the creativity their team produces. Why you can't separate who you are professionally from who you are personally. The importance of being honest and transparent- and owning your mistakes. Always remember that you can't change your reputation. It follows you wherever you go. Nate talks about his creative director, Lauren Buxbaum Gordon, the team she leads, the way that they support one another and their process for managing interior design projects. Nate explains why he decided not to close his design firm in 2006. The magical way that Nate got to meet and work with Oprah. Even when faced with a one of a kind opportunity, Nate made decisions based on sound business principles, exemplifying true professional leadership as an interior design firm owner. The moment when Oprah told America to remember Nate's name. Nate personal work ethic is to work as hard or harder than anyone he collaborates with. He feels it shows respect and creates an environment for more collaboration. His dear friend, former Co-President of Oprah Winfrey Network and President of Harp Productions, Sheri Salata, married Nick and Jeremiah Brent. Nancy Hala, Sheri’s business partner, and co-host on their podcast, Sheri and Nancy, is a previous guest on A Well-Designed Business, episode #377 Sheri Salata, Nancy Hala, Nate and Jeremiah partner in a media company called Story. Nate discusses how he and Jeremiah work together on interior design projects and how important it is when you are in business with your spouse to respect each other's opinions. Nate gives his best advice for growing a profitable design firm. Bio: Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018.  Links: Website: Nate Berkus Instagram: Nate Berkus Facebook: Nate Berkus Pinterest: Nate Berkus Nate And Jeremiah By Design is on TLC on Saturday nights. Nate’s fabric collection with Kravet Inc. is called Well-Traveled. In spring 2019 Nate and Jeremiah launched a new line of furniture, with over 300 pieces, for Living Spaces, a retailer on the west coast of the US. Recommended book: The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker Welcome to a very special episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today Nate Berkus joins us on the show! We really have lots to talk to him about, and at the top of the list is his first collection with Kravet Inc. This collection, called Well-Traveled, launching in June 2019 is a luxurious mix of chenille’s, statement cotton and linen prints as well as intricate embroideries, and velvet. In today's show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate's travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate's approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah.

Show Highlights:

  • Nate talks about his new venture, in collaboration with Kravet Inc, which launches in June 2019.
  • Nate has really enjoyed working with the passionate, creative team at Kravet Inc!
  • LuAnn is looking forward to featuring some of Nate's collection in her newly-renovated showroom at Window Works.
  • Nate explains what inspired him to start his own interior design firm at the age of twenty-four.
  • Nate talks about what he set out to do when he first started out on his own.
  • The impact that social media has had on the interior design industry.
  • Running his business like a Fortune 500 company with systems, procedures and cross checks.
  • Nate explains why creating an exceptional client experience has always been as important to him as the creativity their team produces.
  • Why you can't separate who you are professionally from who you are personally.
  • The importance of being honest and transparent- and owning your mistakes.
  • Always remember that you can't change your reputation. It follows you wherever you go.
  • Nate talks about his creative director, Lauren Buxbaum Gordon, the team she leads, the way that they support one another and their process for managing interior design projects. Nate explains why he decided not to close his design firm in 2006.
  • The magical way that Nate got to meet and work with Oprah.
  • Even when faced with a one of a kind opportunity, Nate made decisions based on sound business principles, exemplifying true professional leadership as an interior design firm owner.
  • The moment when Oprah told America to remember Nate's name.
  • Nate personal work ethic is to work as hard or harder than anyone he collaborates with. He feels it shows respect and creates an environment for more collaboration.
  • His dear friend, former Co-President of Oprah Winfrey Network and President of Harp Productions, Sheri Salata, married Nick and Jeremiah Brent.
  • Nancy Hala, Sheri’s business partner, and co-host on their podcast, Sheri and Nancy, is a previous guest on A Well-Designed Business, episode #377
  • Sheri Salata, Nancy Hala, Nate and Jeremiah partner in a media company called Story.
  • Nate discusses how he and Jeremiah work together on interior design projects and how important it is when you are in business with your spouse to respect each other's opinions.
  • Nate gives his best advice for growing a profitable design firm.

Bio:

Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018. 

Links:

Website: Nate Berkus

Instagram: Nate Berkus

Facebook: Nate Berkus

Pinterest: Nate Berkus

Nate And Jeremiah By Design is on TLC on Saturday nights.

Nate’s fabric collection with Kravet Inc. is called Well-Traveled.

In spring 2019 Nate and Jeremiah launched a new line of furniture, with over 300 pieces, for Living Spaces, a retailer on the west coast of the US.

Recommended book:

The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker

]]> 4177 no 432: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Your Client Is Wrong, Now What? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/432-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-your-client-is-wrong-now-what Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about what to do when you know the client is wrong. For the health and success of your business, it's really critical that you know how to handle conflicts successfully. In episode #430, we talked about what to do when you are wrong. In today's episode, you will learn what to do when you do everything right but the client doesn't like it. Listen in, to get LuAnn's expert advice. Do you want to be right or do you want to get what you want? Over the years, this little phrase has really helped LuAnn navigate conflicts with clients, vendors, employees, and even with the people closest to her. And Window Works is also very clear about their core values and their commitment to 110% customer service. The team doesn't always know how each of them will handle a given situation, but they all know that they will do whatever it takes to make the client happy. Tune in now, to find out what to do when the client just isn't happy with what you've done. Show highlights: LuAnn gives an example of something that happened at Window Works this past winter. In a conflict situation with a client, be calm, non-confrontational, and let them know that you will do whatever it takes to make them happy. It's important to know what you're striving for and what your goals are. LuAnn explains why she, as the owner of the company, decided not to make the first phone call in the situation that happened with Window Works. There are subtle nuances to successfully handling difficult situations. Why Luann called the client only on the second day. LuAnn explains how she read the situation. It's very important to remain real, and not play any games. It's another thing if the client decides not to play by the rules. Setting up reminders and putting all the previous agreements in front of the client in a conversational way. Sometimes, it's best to honestly agree with the client. LuAnn shares the solution she proposed to the client. Carefully placing the message of excellent customer service in between the lines. Applying pressure in a very nice and subtle way. LuAnn explains her clear reason for creating an opportunity for a phone call the next day. Why it was so important for LuAnn to have the first order paid for right away. Selling is about listening, being on your feet, and being willing to get to the bottom of whatever is upsetting the client. Using your rationale to get the client to buy into the solution that you want to happen. Why you need to be very clear about how the payments for each section of the project must happen after agreeing to a solution. Remember that you are the leader of the transaction, so be the leader! The ultimate goal is not to win. It is to leave the client 100% satisfied. You need to know what the net cost of the project is. Paying close attention to what your client is saying is really very important. Links: To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, Sales For Creatives, head over to Sales For Creatives To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999. Fri, 24 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Your Client Is Wrong, Now What? full 432 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about what to do when you know the client is wrong. For the health and success of your business, it's really critical that you know how to handle conflicts successfully. In episode #430, we talked... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about what to do when you know the client is wrong. For the health and success of your business, it's really critical that you know how to handle conflicts successfully. In episode #430, we talked about what to do when you are wrong. In today's episode, you will learn what to do when you do everything right but the client doesn't like it. Listen in, to get LuAnn's expert advice. Do you want to be right or do you want to get what you want? Over the years, this little phrase has really helped LuAnn navigate conflicts with clients, vendors, employees, and even with the people closest to her. And Window Works is also very clear about their core values and their commitment to 110% customer service. The team doesn't always know how each of them will handle a given situation, but they all know that they will do whatever it takes to make the client happy. Tune in now, to find out what to do when the client just isn't happy with what you've done. Show highlights: LuAnn gives an example of something that happened at Window Works this past winter. In a conflict situation with a client, be calm, non-confrontational, and let them know that you will do whatever it takes to make them happy. It's important to know what you're striving for and what your goals are. LuAnn explains why she, as the owner of the company, decided not to make the first phone call in the situation that happened with Window Works. There are subtle nuances to successfully handling difficult situations. Why Luann called the client only on the second day. LuAnn explains how she read the situation. It's very important to remain real, and not play any games. It's another thing if the client decides not to play by the rules. Setting up reminders and putting all the previous agreements in front of the client in a conversational way. Sometimes, it's best to honestly agree with the client. LuAnn shares the solution she proposed to the client. Carefully placing the message of excellent customer service in between the lines. Applying pressure in a very nice and subtle way. LuAnn explains her clear reason for creating an opportunity for a phone call the next day. Why it was so important for LuAnn to have the first order paid for right away. Selling is about listening, being on your feet, and being willing to get to the bottom of whatever is upsetting the client. Using your rationale to get the client to buy into the solution that you want to happen. Why you need to be very clear about how the payments for each section of the project must happen after agreeing to a solution. Remember that you are the leader of the transaction, so be the leader! The ultimate goal is not to win. It is to leave the client 100% satisfied. You need to know what the net cost of the project is. Paying close attention to what your client is saying is really very important. Links: To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, Sales For Creatives, head over to Sales For Creatives To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about what to do when you know the client is wrong. For the health and success of your business, it's really critical that you know how to handle conflicts successfully. In episode #430, we talked about what to do when you are wrong. In today's episode, you will learn what to do when you do everything right but the client doesn't like it. Listen in, to get LuAnn's expert advice.

Do you want to be right or do you want to get what you want? Over the years, this little phrase has really helped LuAnn navigate conflicts with clients, vendors, employees, and even with the people closest to her. And Window Works is also very clear about their core values and their commitment to 110% customer service. The team doesn't always know how each of them will handle a given situation, but they all know that they will do whatever it takes to make the client happy. Tune in now, to find out what to do when the client just isn't happy with what you've done.

Show highlights:

  • LuAnn gives an example of something that happened at Window Works this past winter.
  • In a conflict situation with a client, be calm, non-confrontational, and let them know that you will do whatever it takes to make them happy.
  • It's important to know what you're striving for and what your goals are.
  • LuAnn explains why she, as the owner of the company, decided not to make the first phone call in the situation that happened with Window Works.
  • There are subtle nuances to successfully handling difficult situations.
  • Why Luann called the client only on the second day.
  • LuAnn explains how she read the situation.
  • It's very important to remain real, and not play any games.
  • It's another thing if the client decides not to play by the rules.
  • Setting up reminders and putting all the previous agreements in front of the client in a conversational way.
  • Sometimes, it's best to honestly agree with the client.
  • LuAnn shares the solution she proposed to the client.
  • Carefully placing the message of excellent customer service in between the lines.
  • Applying pressure in a very nice and subtle way.
  • LuAnn explains her clear reason for creating an opportunity for a phone call the next day.
  • Why it was so important for LuAnn to have the first order paid for right away.
  • Selling is about listening, being on your feet, and being willing to get to the bottom of whatever is upsetting the client.
  • Using your rationale to get the client to buy into the solution that you want to happen.
  • Why you need to be very clear about how the payments for each section of the project must happen after agreeing to a solution.
  • Remember that you are the leader of the transaction, so be the leader!
  • The ultimate goal is not to win. It is to leave the client 100% satisfied.
  • You need to know what the net cost of the project is.
  • Paying close attention to what your client is saying is really very important.

Links:

To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, Sales For Creatives, head over to

Sales For Creatives

To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999.

]]> 2479 no 431: Debbe Daley: Sharing Experience Learned From 30+ Years in the Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/431-debbe-daley-sharing-experience-learned-from-30-years-in-the-interior-design-business Welcome to today's show! We have Debbe Daley, an interior designer in the New England area, on the show with us. Debbe is also an installed designer in the Boston Design Center’s Designer On Call program, now called Design Services program. In today's episode, Debbe talks to us about the way she handles her initial consult, about the items that she puts in a folder for her clients, and how she provides suggestions for her clients. She also talks about the book she is writing, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, which is due to be launched in the fall of 2019 and she discusses the two-day seminar that she will be running in Portsmouth, in June, for interior designers. Listen in, to find out what Debbe has to share on the show today. After obtaining a business degree, Debbe took a slight detour and taught herself how to sew custom window treatments. She also spent some time doing hands-on work in the paint, wallpaper, and furniture industry. In doing this, she gained valuable knowledge and she also expanded her industry network of friends and colleagues. Now, some thirty years later, Debbe is well-respected in the industry and she is often invited to speak at industry conferences. She also writes a weekly lifestyle column for the Lowell Sun, where she covers topics about design, travel, DIY, and cooking, for the Merrimack Valley audience. Tune in now for more. Show Highlights: The five-day course in decoration and interior design that Debbe teaches to the non-design professional who is hoping to become a design professional. Debbe gives an overview of the two-day course she teaches, called Design For Today, that is geared towards professionals in the design industry. The next course will be in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on June the 27th and 28th. Debbe's two-day workshop was developed at the request of some of Debbe's seasoned colleagues from the Association of Design Education. Debbe's clients are looking for software platforms that they can use to enhance their businesses, to make their lives a bit easier. Debbe uses Design Files, a platform that is designed to do e-design. The thing that really got Debbe going in the right direction and gave her the motivation for the book she's writing. Why sharing her knowledge is so important to Debbe right now. Some of the lessons that Debbe learned from Fred Berns. Debbe's take on whether or not to put your packages on your website. How Debbe handles her initial client consultation. The mechanism that Debbe uses to stay on time. What the folder that Debbe gives her clients initially contains. Why Debbe always has her clients sign a photo release form. Debbe talks about her initial consultation rate and her hourly rate. About Debbe's Pick Your Brain segment. How Fred Berns helped Debbe to increase her rates. Debbe has set things up so that there's a package for everyone. Attracting the client that is right for you. The importance of putting yourself out there, introducing yourself to your local reps, and setting up your vendor accounts. Debbe talks about her new book, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, and she explains who it is geared towards. It takes a lot of hard work to be an interior designer. As a new designer, any kind of store experience is valuable. People notice it if you're driven and you really know what you're doing, as a designer. Bio: Debbe Daley, an award-winning interior designer with more than 30 years’ experience, is known for the extraordinary service she provides prominent homeowners in New England and around the country. She supplies a complete range of design services for new and existing homes nationwide, but she focuses on working with clients in the Boston Back Bay, the North Shore of Massachusetts, Cape Cod, coastal Maine, and the New Hampshire seacoast as well as the Merrimack Valley. In addition, she is a gifted professional speaker who delivers programs to both interior design and general audiences nationwide. She presents keynotes, seminars, and workshops on topics ranging from design business success practices to the Power of Positive Energy. Debbe is the winner of numerous Houzz customer service awards and gets 80% of her business from referrals. She designs multiple homes for the same clients and works with different generations of the same family. Clients use words like “fantastic,” fabulous,” “exceptional,” “impeccable,” “outstanding,” and “a pleasure to work with” to describe her. Debbe has designed new homes and remodeled existing residences for more than 700 clients, including Fortune 500 executives, CEOs, high tech leaders, medical specialists, business owners, and other successful professionals. Her commercial design projects include funeral homes and professional offices. Debbe Daley Designs is based in an elegant design studio in the historic Abraham Shaw House in Portsmouth, NH. The firm is backed by a team of some of the region’s premier contractors, carpenters, painters, flooring specialists, cabinet experts, electricians, and other professionals, as well as a nationwide network of vendors and suppliers. Debbe, who earned interior design degrees at three leading institutions, shares her extensive design expertise in her weekly lifestyle column in the Lowell Sun, the Huffington Post and her own blog. She keeps current on the design industry through her involvement with the American Society of Interior Designers and the International Furnishings and Design Assn. and the National Speakers Association. Her clients today benefit from the customer service, problem-solving and administrative skills, and the product knowledge she gained during her highly successful earlier career working in the industry through retail establishments, an interior design firm and four leading New England companies. Debbe has an office in the Boston Design Center, where she is involved in the Design Services, Designer on Call program as well as the new office location in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, serving regions of the Merrimack Valley, Boston, and the Portsmouth seacoast. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Fred Berns: #289, #226, #174, #96, #48, #22 Darla Powell #330, #203 Wendy Glaister #386 Kristan McLaughlin #319 Barbara Sallick owner of Waterworks #131 Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Links and resources: Debbe Daley Designs LLC 379 State Street - #1 Portsmouth NH 03801 Daley Designs Instagram: Debbe Daley Facebook: Debbe Daley Designs Tue, 21 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Debbe Daley: Sharing Experience Learned From 30+ Years in the Interior Design Business full 431 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Debbe Daley, an interior designer in the New England area, on the show with us. Debbe is also an installed designer in the Boston Design Center’s Designer On Call program, now called Design Services program. In... Welcome to today's show! We have Debbe Daley, an interior designer in the New England area, on the show with us. Debbe is also an installed designer in the Boston Design Center’s Designer On Call program, now called Design Services program. In today's episode, Debbe talks to us about the way she handles her initial consult, about the items that she puts in a folder for her clients, and how she provides suggestions for her clients. She also talks about the book she is writing, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, which is due to be launched in the fall of 2019 and she discusses the two-day seminar that she will be running in Portsmouth, in June, for interior designers. Listen in, to find out what Debbe has to share on the show today. After obtaining a business degree, Debbe took a slight detour and taught herself how to sew custom window treatments. She also spent some time doing hands-on work in the paint, wallpaper, and furniture industry. In doing this, she gained valuable knowledge and she also expanded her industry network of friends and colleagues. Now, some thirty years later, Debbe is well-respected in the industry and she is often invited to speak at industry conferences. She also writes a weekly lifestyle column for the Lowell Sun, where she covers topics about design, travel, DIY, and cooking, for the Merrimack Valley audience. Tune in now for more. Show Highlights: The five-day course in decoration and interior design that Debbe teaches to the non-design professional who is hoping to become a design professional. Debbe gives an overview of the two-day course she teaches, called Design For Today, that is geared towards professionals in the design industry. The next course will be in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on June the 27th and 28th. Debbe's two-day workshop was developed at the request of some of Debbe's seasoned colleagues from the Association of Design Education. Debbe's clients are looking for software platforms that they can use to enhance their businesses, to make their lives a bit easier. Debbe uses Design Files, a platform that is designed to do e-design. The thing that really got Debbe going in the right direction and gave her the motivation for the book she's writing. Why sharing her knowledge is so important to Debbe right now. Some of the lessons that Debbe learned from Fred Berns. Debbe's take on whether or not to put your packages on your website. How Debbe handles her initial client consultation. The mechanism that Debbe uses to stay on time. What the folder that Debbe gives her clients initially contains. Why Debbe always has her clients sign a photo release form. Debbe talks about her initial consultation rate and her hourly rate. About Debbe's Pick Your Brain segment. How Fred Berns helped Debbe to increase her rates. Debbe has set things up so that there's a package for everyone. Attracting the client that is right for you. The importance of putting yourself out there, introducing yourself to your local reps, and setting up your vendor accounts. Debbe talks about her new book, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, and she explains who it is geared towards. It takes a lot of hard work to be an interior designer. As a new designer, any kind of store experience is valuable. People notice it if you're driven and you really know what you're doing, as a designer. Bio: Debbe Daley, an award-winning interior designer with more than 30 years’ experience, is known for the extraordinary service she provides prominent homeowners in New England and around the country. She supplies a complete range of design services for new and existing homes nationwide, but she focuses on working with clients in the Boston Back Bay, the North Shore of Massachusetts, Cape Cod, coastal Maine, and the New Hampshire seacoast as well as the Merrimack Valley. In addition, she is a gifted professional speaker who delivers programs to both interior design and general audiences nationwide. She presents keynotes, seminars, and workshops on topics ranging from design business success practices to the Power of Positive Energy. Debbe is the winner of numerous Houzz customer service awards and gets 80% of her business from referrals. She designs multiple homes for the same clients and works with different generations of the same family. Clients use words like “fantastic,” fabulous,” “exceptional,” “impeccable,” “outstanding,” and “a pleasure to work with” to describe her. Debbe has designed new homes and remodeled existing residences for more than 700 clients, including Fortune 500 executives, CEOs, high tech leaders, medical specialists, business owners, and other successful professionals. Her commercial design projects include funeral homes and professional offices. Debbe Daley Designs is based in an elegant design studio in the historic Abraham Shaw House in Portsmouth, NH. The firm is backed by a team of some of the region’s premier contractors, carpenters, painters, flooring specialists, cabinet experts, electricians, and other professionals, as well as a nationwide network of vendors and suppliers. Debbe, who earned interior design degrees at three leading institutions, shares her extensive design expertise in her weekly lifestyle column in the Lowell Sun, the Huffington Post and her own blog. She keeps current on the design industry through her involvement with the American Society of Interior Designers and the International Furnishings and Design Assn. and the National Speakers Association. Her clients today benefit from the customer service, problem-solving and administrative skills, and the product knowledge she gained during her highly successful earlier career working in the industry through retail establishments, an interior design firm and four leading New England companies. Debbe has an office in the Boston Design Center, where she is involved in the Design Services, Designer on Call program as well as the new office location in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, serving regions of the Merrimack Valley, Boston, and the Portsmouth seacoast. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Fred Berns: #289, #226, #174, #96, #48, #22 Darla Powell #330, #203 Wendy Glaister #386 Kristan McLaughlin #319 Barbara Sallick owner of Waterworks #131 Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Links and resources: Debbe Daley Designs LLC 379 State Street - #1 Portsmouth NH 03801 Daley Designs Instagram: Debbe Daley Facebook: Debbe Daley Designs Welcome to today's show! We have Debbe Daley, an interior designer in the New England area, on the show with us. Debbe is also an installed designer in the Boston Design Center’s Designer On Call program, now called Design Services program. In today's episode, Debbe talks to us about the way she handles her initial consult, about the items that she puts in a folder for her clients, and how she provides suggestions for her clients. She also talks about the book she is writing, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, which is due to be launched in the fall of 2019 and she discusses the two-day seminar that she will be running in Portsmouth, in June, for interior designers. Listen in, to find out what Debbe has to share on the show today.

After obtaining a business degree, Debbe took a slight detour and taught herself how to sew custom window treatments. She also spent some time doing hands-on work in the paint, wallpaper, and furniture industry. In doing this, she gained valuable knowledge and she also expanded her industry network of friends and colleagues. Now, some thirty years later, Debbe is well-respected in the industry and she is often invited to speak at industry conferences. She also writes a weekly lifestyle column for the Lowell Sun, where she covers topics about design, travel, DIY, and cooking, for the Merrimack Valley audience. Tune in now for more.

Show Highlights:

  • The five-day course in decoration and interior design that Debbe teaches to the non-design professional who is hoping to become a design professional.
  • Debbe gives an overview of the two-day course she teaches, called Design For Today, that is geared towards professionals in the design industry. The next course will be in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on June the 27th and 28th.
  • Debbe's two-day workshop was developed at the request of some of Debbe's seasoned colleagues from the Association of Design Education.
  • Debbe's clients are looking for software platforms that they can use to enhance their businesses, to make their lives a bit easier.
  • Debbe uses Design Files, a platform that is designed to do e-design.
  • The thing that really got Debbe going in the right direction and gave her the motivation for the book she's writing.
  • Why sharing her knowledge is so important to Debbe right now.
  • Some of the lessons that Debbe learned from Fred Berns.
  • Debbe's take on whether or not to put your packages on your website.
  • How Debbe handles her initial client consultation.
  • The mechanism that Debbe uses to stay on time.
  • What the folder that Debbe gives her clients initially contains.
  • Why Debbe always has her clients sign a photo release form.
  • Debbe talks about her initial consultation rate and her hourly rate.
  • About Debbe's Pick Your Brain segment.
  • How Fred Berns helped Debbe to increase her rates.
  • Debbe has set things up so that there's a package for everyone.
  • Attracting the client that is right for you.
  • The importance of putting yourself out there, introducing yourself to your local reps, and setting up your vendor accounts.
  • Debbe talks about her new book, Monetizing Your Passion- Turning Your Hobby into A Business, and she explains who it is geared towards.
  • It takes a lot of hard work to be an interior designer.
  • As a new designer, any kind of store experience is valuable.
  • People notice it if you're driven and you really know what you're doing, as a designer.

Bio:

Debbe Daley, an award-winning interior designer with more than 30 years’ experience, is known for the extraordinary service she provides prominent homeowners in New England and around the country.

She supplies a complete range of design services for new and existing homes nationwide, but she focuses on working with clients in the Boston Back Bay, the North Shore of Massachusetts, Cape Cod, coastal Maine, and the New Hampshire seacoast as well as the Merrimack Valley. In addition, she is a gifted professional speaker who delivers programs to both interior design and general audiences nationwide. She presents keynotes, seminars, and workshops on topics ranging from design business success practices to the Power of Positive Energy.

Debbe is the winner of numerous Houzz customer service awards and gets 80% of her business from referrals. She designs multiple homes for the same clients and works with different generations of the same family. Clients use words like “fantastic,” fabulous,” “exceptional,” “impeccable,” “outstanding,” and “a pleasure to work with” to describe her. Debbe has designed new homes and remodeled existing residences for more than 700 clients, including Fortune 500 executives, CEOs, high tech leaders, medical specialists, business owners, and other successful professionals. Her commercial design projects include funeral homes and professional offices.

Debbe Daley Designs is based in an elegant design studio in the historic Abraham Shaw House in Portsmouth, NH. The firm is backed by a team of some of the region’s premier contractors, carpenters, painters, flooring specialists, cabinet experts, electricians, and other professionals, as well as a nationwide network of vendors and suppliers.

Debbe, who earned interior design degrees at three leading institutions, shares her extensive design expertise in her weekly lifestyle column in the Lowell Sun, the Huffington Post and her own blog. She keeps current on the design industry through her involvement with the American Society of Interior Designers and the International Furnishings and Design Assn. and the National Speakers Association. Her clients today benefit from the customer service, problem-solving and administrative skills, and the product knowledge she gained during her highly successful earlier career working in the industry through retail establishments, an interior design firm and four leading New England companies.

Debbe has an office in the Boston Design Center, where she is involved in the Design Services, Designer on Call program as well as the new office location in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, serving regions of the Merrimack Valley, Boston, and the Portsmouth seacoast.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Fred Berns: #289, #226, #174, #96, #48, #22

Darla Powell #330, #203

Wendy Glaister #386

Kristan McLaughlin #319

Barbara Sallick owner of Waterworks #131

Wendy Woloshchuk #316

Links and resources:

Debbe Daley Designs LLC

379 State Street - #1

Portsmouth NH 03801

Daley Designs

Instagram: Debbe Daley

Facebook: Debbe Daley Designs

]]> 4687 no 430: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: You Made A Mistake. Now What? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/430-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-you-made-a-mistake-now-what Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about when things go wrong and how to fix them. If you'd like your business to be really successful, with loyal, long-term clients who keep coming back year after year, you have to differentiate yourself from the rest. There are two kinds of situations where you can make this happen if you're willing to conduct yourself in the way that LuAnn advises and if you're willing to spend the time perfecting the necessary skills to do so. Listen in today, to learn what LuAnn has to teach you about what to do when you've made a mistake. Sometimes, your client isn't happy with an outcome. You see their point and you agree, however, you can also see that the solution is going to be expensive for you, either in terms of time or money. So you might feel that you can't afford to fix it. The truth is, however, that you cannot afford not to fix it. Because good news travels fast and bad news travels even faster- and further. Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to share about what to do when something goes wrong.  Show Highlights: LuAnn describes a typical scenario of something going wrong. Often, we worry that if we tell a client that we've made a mistake we will be at a disadvantage with them because it could cost us money or our expertise could be questioned. Why you're not fooling anybody by pretending. When you price your projects properly you will have the money to clean things up if you need to. If it really is your mistake, just say so. It's important to acknowledge what your client is feeling. Mistakes are going to happen. So at the start of a project, explain to your client how you take care of mistakes. The first thing is to acknowledge your mistake, and the second thing is to own it. Then you tell your client what the solution is. When it's okay, and when it's not, to charge your client for the mistake. Listen to your inner voice. Listen carefully and be real with your client. Don't ignore a problem. Don't be afraid to ask your client what will make them happy. You will know when your client isn't happy, so ask them about it. It will be okay. Next week, we will talk about what to do when there's a problem, but there isn't really a problem. But you still have a problem because you have to fix it. LuAnn talks about the group sales coaching course that she has decided to run. LuAnn gives some details about the group sales coaching course and she talks about the topics that she will be covering. Links: To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, head over to Sales for Creatives - (If the link is not working Friday when this airs, it will be working by Tuesday, 5/21.) To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999. Fri, 17 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: You Made A Mistake. Now What? full 430 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about when things go wrong and how to fix them. If you'd like your business to be really successful, with loyal, long-term clients who keep coming back year after year, you have to differentiate... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about when things go wrong and how to fix them. If you'd like your business to be really successful, with loyal, long-term clients who keep coming back year after year, you have to differentiate yourself from the rest. There are two kinds of situations where you can make this happen if you're willing to conduct yourself in the way that LuAnn advises and if you're willing to spend the time perfecting the necessary skills to do so. Listen in today, to learn what LuAnn has to teach you about what to do when you've made a mistake. Sometimes, your client isn't happy with an outcome. You see their point and you agree, however, you can also see that the solution is going to be expensive for you, either in terms of time or money. So you might feel that you can't afford to fix it. The truth is, however, that you cannot afford not to fix it. Because good news travels fast and bad news travels even faster- and further. Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to share about what to do when something goes wrong.  Show Highlights: LuAnn describes a typical scenario of something going wrong. Often, we worry that if we tell a client that we've made a mistake we will be at a disadvantage with them because it could cost us money or our expertise could be questioned. Why you're not fooling anybody by pretending. When you price your projects properly you will have the money to clean things up if you need to. If it really is your mistake, just say so. It's important to acknowledge what your client is feeling. Mistakes are going to happen. So at the start of a project, explain to your client how you take care of mistakes. The first thing is to acknowledge your mistake, and the second thing is to own it. Then you tell your client what the solution is. When it's okay, and when it's not, to charge your client for the mistake. Listen to your inner voice. Listen carefully and be real with your client. Don't ignore a problem. Don't be afraid to ask your client what will make them happy. You will know when your client isn't happy, so ask them about it. It will be okay. Next week, we will talk about what to do when there's a problem, but there isn't really a problem. But you still have a problem because you have to fix it. LuAnn talks about the group sales coaching course that she has decided to run. LuAnn gives some details about the group sales coaching course and she talks about the topics that she will be covering. Links: To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, head over to Sales for Creatives - (If the link is not working Friday when this airs, it will be working by Tuesday, 5/21.) To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we're talking about when things go wrong and how to fix them. If you'd like your business to be really successful, with loyal, long-term clients who keep coming back year after year, you have to differentiate yourself from the rest. There are two kinds of situations where you can make this happen if you're willing to conduct yourself in the way that LuAnn advises and if you're willing to spend the time perfecting the necessary skills to do so. Listen in today, to learn what LuAnn has to teach you about what to do when you've made a mistake.

Sometimes, your client isn't happy with an outcome. You see their point and you agree, however, you can also see that the solution is going to be expensive for you, either in terms of time or money. So you might feel that you can't afford to fix it. The truth is, however, that you cannot afford not to fix it. Because good news travels fast and bad news travels even faster- and further. Tune in now to find out what LuAnn has to share about what to do when something goes wrong.

 Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn describes a typical scenario of something going wrong.
  • Often, we worry that if we tell a client that we've made a mistake we will be at a disadvantage with them because it could cost us money or our expertise could be questioned.
  • Why you're not fooling anybody by pretending.
  • When you price your projects properly you will have the money to clean things up if you need to.
  • If it really is your mistake, just say so. It's important to acknowledge what your client is feeling.
  • Mistakes are going to happen. So at the start of a project, explain to your client how you take care of mistakes.
  • The first thing is to acknowledge your mistake, and the second thing is to own it. Then you tell your client what the solution is.
  • When it's okay, and when it's not, to charge your client for the mistake.
  • Listen to your inner voice.
  • Listen carefully and be real with your client.
  • Don't ignore a problem.
  • Don't be afraid to ask your client what will make them happy.
  • You will know when your client isn't happy, so ask them about it. It will be okay.
  • Next week, we will talk about what to do when there's a problem, but there isn't really a problem. But you still have a problem because you have to fix it.
  • LuAnn talks about the group sales coaching course that she has decided to run.
  • LuAnn gives some details about the group sales coaching course and she talks about the topics that she will be covering.

Links:

To find out about LuAnn's group sales coaching course, head over to

Sales for Creatives - (If the link is not working Friday when this airs, it will be working by Tuesday, 5/21.)

To get onto LuAnn's email list, text the word designbiz to 444999.

]]> 1768 no 429: Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/429-alinda-morris-a-successful-design-business-depends-on-a-firm-foundation Welcome! Today we have Alinda Morris, of Alinda Morris Interior Design, located in Gig Harbor, Washington, with us. Although her firm is small, with Alinda and just one other employee, she's running it like a bigger firm. She has her systems down, she has her practices binder, and she's tracking her hours. In today's episode, Alinda explains how she has become very clear and focused, in the last couple of years. This has really made a big difference for her in terms of peace of mind, profitability, project management, and the experience her clients have when working with her firm. Listen in today, to find out what Alinda has to share about the way that she's set herself up for success with builders and other trades, and how she ensures the success of anyone that works for her. Alinda Morris is a nationally published, award-winning interior design professional, habitual remodeler, adventurous creative, specializing in full service, luxury residential interior design. These include custom furnishings, unique kitchens & artfully designed bathrooms, attention to details, and clean, updated spaces are her specialties. She is committed to her clients having a wonderful experience. She is widely admired for her ability to create, invent, explore, and innovate. In addition to Alinda's impressive versatility, ranging from minimalist restraint to traditional chic, client’s find Alinda's passion for design infectious so that collaborating with her is a thrilling process as she works her creative magic in both visual appeal and functionality. Tune in now, for more. Show highlights: Alinda has her systems down pat, and her portfolio is really amazing! Some of the habits that Alinda has instituted in her firm. The challenges that Alinda faces. Great communication has always been very important for Alinda. The trail and error process that Alinda went through, for a few years, to find the best systems for her business. How Alinda helps her clients get a grasp on their design budget. Starting the design process with Alinda, through her questionnaire. Alinda's firm is very client-based. The way that Alinda communicates with the builders she works with. Alinda talks about her detailed special best practices binder, for her interns, with examples of how she likes things to be done. Choosing the right font for your brand. About the check-lists Alinda uses. The things she brings in for photo shoots. Alinda shares her thoughts on the way she tracks her billable hours. Alinda knows exactly how many hours she needs to bill in order to cover her costs each month. Alinda describes her magnificent small boutique studio on the waterfront at Gig Harbour, Washington. Reinvesting profits back into her business. How Alinda creates the very best experiences for her employees. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Charlotte Safavi #138 Raquel Langworthy #343 Stephen Karlisch #369 Links: Alinda Morris Interior Design   Houzz Instagram Facebook Tue, 14 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation full 429 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Alinda Morris, of Alinda Morris Interior Design, located in Gig Harbor, Washington, with us. Although her firm is small, with Alinda and just one other employee, she's running it like a bigger firm. She has her systems down, she... Welcome! Today we have Alinda Morris, of Alinda Morris Interior Design, located in Gig Harbor, Washington, with us. Although her firm is small, with Alinda and just one other employee, she's running it like a bigger firm. She has her systems down, she has her practices binder, and she's tracking her hours. In today's episode, Alinda explains how she has become very clear and focused, in the last couple of years. This has really made a big difference for her in terms of peace of mind, profitability, project management, and the experience her clients have when working with her firm. Listen in today, to find out what Alinda has to share about the way that she's set herself up for success with builders and other trades, and how she ensures the success of anyone that works for her. Alinda Morris is a nationally published, award-winning interior design professional, habitual remodeler, adventurous creative, specializing in full service, luxury residential interior design. These include custom furnishings, unique kitchens & artfully designed bathrooms, attention to details, and clean, updated spaces are her specialties. She is committed to her clients having a wonderful experience. She is widely admired for her ability to create, invent, explore, and innovate. In addition to Alinda's impressive versatility, ranging from minimalist restraint to traditional chic, client’s find Alinda's passion for design infectious so that collaborating with her is a thrilling process as she works her creative magic in both visual appeal and functionality. Tune in now, for more. Show highlights: Alinda has her systems down pat, and her portfolio is really amazing! Some of the habits that Alinda has instituted in her firm. The challenges that Alinda faces. Great communication has always been very important for Alinda. The trail and error process that Alinda went through, for a few years, to find the best systems for her business. How Alinda helps her clients get a grasp on their design budget. Starting the design process with Alinda, through her questionnaire. Alinda's firm is very client-based. The way that Alinda communicates with the builders she works with. Alinda talks about her detailed special best practices binder, for her interns, with examples of how she likes things to be done. Choosing the right font for your brand. About the check-lists Alinda uses. The things she brings in for photo shoots. Alinda shares her thoughts on the way she tracks her billable hours. Alinda knows exactly how many hours she needs to bill in order to cover her costs each month. Alinda describes her magnificent small boutique studio on the waterfront at Gig Harbour, Washington. Reinvesting profits back into her business. How Alinda creates the very best experiences for her employees. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Charlotte Safavi #138 Raquel Langworthy #343 Stephen Karlisch #369 Links: Alinda Morris Interior Design   Houzz Instagram Facebook Welcome! Today we have Alinda Morris, of Alinda Morris Interior Design, located in Gig Harbor, Washington, with us. Although her firm is small, with Alinda and just one other employee, she's running it like a bigger firm. She has her systems down, she has her practices binder, and she's tracking her hours. In today's episode, Alinda explains how she has become very clear and focused, in the last couple of years. This has really made a big difference for her in terms of peace of mind, profitability, project management, and the experience her clients have when working with her firm. Listen in today, to find out what Alinda has to share about the way that she's set herself up for success with builders and other trades, and how she ensures the success of anyone that works for her.

Alinda Morris is a nationally published, award-winning interior design professional, habitual remodeler, adventurous creative, specializing in full service, luxury residential interior design. These include custom furnishings, unique kitchens & artfully designed bathrooms, attention to details, and clean, updated spaces are her specialties.

She is committed to her clients having a wonderful experience. She is widely admired for her ability to create, invent, explore, and innovate.

In addition to Alinda's impressive versatility, ranging from minimalist restraint to traditional chic, client’s find Alinda's passion for design infectious so that collaborating with her is a thrilling process as she works her creative magic in both visual appeal and functionality. Tune in now, for more.

Show highlights:

  • Alinda has her systems down pat, and her portfolio is really amazing!
  • Some of the habits that Alinda has instituted in her firm.
  • The challenges that Alinda faces.
  • Great communication has always been very important for Alinda.
  • The trail and error process that Alinda went through, for a few years, to find the best systems for her business.
  • How Alinda helps her clients get a grasp on their design budget.
  • Starting the design process with Alinda, through her questionnaire.
  • Alinda's firm is very client-based.
  • The way that Alinda communicates with the builders she works with.
  • Alinda talks about her detailed special best practices binder, for her interns, with examples of how she likes things to be done.
  • Choosing the right font for your brand.
  • About the check-lists Alinda uses.
  • The things she brings in for photo shoots.
  • Alinda shares her thoughts on the way she tracks her billable hours.
  • Alinda knows exactly how many hours she needs to bill in order to cover her costs each month.
  • Alinda describes her magnificent small boutique studio on the waterfront at Gig Harbour, Washington.
  • Reinvesting profits back into her business.
  • How Alinda creates the very best experiences for her employees.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Charlotte Safavi #138

Raquel Langworthy #343

Stephen Karlisch #369

Links:

Alinda Morris Interior Design

 

Houzz

Instagram

Facebook

]]> 4252 no 428: Power Talk Friday: Pep Talk from LuAnn: Turn Inspiration into Action http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/428-power-talk-friday-pep-talk-from-luann-turn-inspiration-into-action Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday.  Today, we're having a solo show because LuAnn has some things to share about her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, which was held in New Jersey a month ago. She would also like to talk about some of the things you can do to take action in your business, in order to do better and become more profitable. Luann's event was a really special experience and an outstanding success! Almost 200 designers, speakers, panelists, sponsors, as well as LuAnn's team, attended the event and for two-and-a-half days, the room was filled with an electric atmosphere and they all really rocked it! Listen in today, to find out more. LuAnn had a vision for the event, and she really knew what she had to do. And she did it! The conversations after the panel discussions were so interactive that it felt as if there were only twenty people in the room, even though there were almost 200 people there! It was really intense in the very best way possible so we're working on doing it again, probably in eight months to a year's time. In the meantime, there's a lot of stuff coming up, like the smaller one-day events and the Power Talk Friday tours. Tune in now, to find out how to turn your inspiration into action. Show highlights: LuAnn thanks everyone and gives a quick recap of her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. You can go to the blog post on LuAnn's website LuAnn Nigara to see the pictures and get an overview of everything that happened at the event. LuAnn talks about her new book, A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts. It can really help you to up your game in business. LuAnn shares some of the keys to upping your business game. Watch your mindset, and be careful not to be closed to new ideas for success. Look at the stories you tell yourself about money. Examine your own mindset about numbers. Michele Williams, in LuAnn's new book, says not to play the song in your head: I’m creative so I’m not good at numbers. Examine your mindset about your fees and don't pretend your rates are about the area you live in. Your rates are related only to your confidence as a designer and business person. What it means to not save your client's money. It is your job to make your clients aware of the best solution for their challenge or problem. They don’t have to do as you suggest but, as the expert, you must make them aware of it. Not saving your client's money also means that when they can’t afford something, they don’t get it. You don’t lower the price to meet their budget. Customer service is critical in creating a successful business. Satisfied clients return. Dissatisfied don’t always tell you, they just don’t return. Own your mistakes. Clients know when you are lying and lying is worse than making a mistake. Take action! With so much information from the live event and the podcast, overwhelm becomes a real possibility, so you have to break things down and work on your business, to get better and to become more profitable. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Fred Berns #289 Vincere #356 Chris Ramey #345 Sandra Espinet #287 Links and resources: Kravet is having a sale at their outlet. And on any regular Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order get 10% off with the code AWDB10 at checkout. Mydoma Studio for project management, time tracking, invoices, communication and saving time: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts Fri, 10 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Pep Talk from LuAnn: Turn Inspiration into Action full 428 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday.  Today, we're having a solo show because LuAnn has some things to share about her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, which was held in New Jersey a month ago. She would also like to talk about some of the... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday.  Today, we're having a solo show because LuAnn has some things to share about her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, which was held in New Jersey a month ago. She would also like to talk about some of the things you can do to take action in your business, in order to do better and become more profitable. Luann's event was a really special experience and an outstanding success! Almost 200 designers, speakers, panelists, sponsors, as well as LuAnn's team, attended the event and for two-and-a-half days, the room was filled with an electric atmosphere and they all really rocked it! Listen in today, to find out more. LuAnn had a vision for the event, and she really knew what she had to do. And she did it! The conversations after the panel discussions were so interactive that it felt as if there were only twenty people in the room, even though there were almost 200 people there! It was really intense in the very best way possible so we're working on doing it again, probably in eight months to a year's time. In the meantime, there's a lot of stuff coming up, like the smaller one-day events and the Power Talk Friday tours. Tune in now, to find out how to turn your inspiration into action. Show highlights: LuAnn thanks everyone and gives a quick recap of her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. You can go to the blog post on LuAnn's website LuAnn Nigara to see the pictures and get an overview of everything that happened at the event. LuAnn talks about her new book, A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts. It can really help you to up your game in business. LuAnn shares some of the keys to upping your business game. Watch your mindset, and be careful not to be closed to new ideas for success. Look at the stories you tell yourself about money. Examine your own mindset about numbers. Michele Williams, in LuAnn's new book, says not to play the song in your head: I’m creative so I’m not good at numbers. Examine your mindset about your fees and don't pretend your rates are about the area you live in. Your rates are related only to your confidence as a designer and business person. What it means to not save your client's money. It is your job to make your clients aware of the best solution for their challenge or problem. They don’t have to do as you suggest but, as the expert, you must make them aware of it. Not saving your client's money also means that when they can’t afford something, they don’t get it. You don’t lower the price to meet their budget. Customer service is critical in creating a successful business. Satisfied clients return. Dissatisfied don’t always tell you, they just don’t return. Own your mistakes. Clients know when you are lying and lying is worse than making a mistake. Take action! With so much information from the live event and the podcast, overwhelm becomes a real possibility, so you have to break things down and work on your business, to get better and to become more profitable. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Fred Berns #289 Vincere #356 Chris Ramey #345 Sandra Espinet #287 Links and resources: Kravet is having a sale at their outlet. And on any regular Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order get 10% off with the code AWDB10 at checkout. Mydoma Studio for project management, time tracking, invoices, communication and saving time: A Well Designed Business A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday.  Today, we're having a solo show because LuAnn has some things to share about her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, which was held in New Jersey a month ago. She would also like to talk about some of the things you can do to take action in your business, in order to do better and become more profitable. Luann's event was a really special experience and an outstanding success! Almost 200 designers, speakers, panelists, sponsors, as well as LuAnn's team, attended the event and for two-and-a-half days, the room was filled with an electric atmosphere and they all really rocked it! Listen in today, to find out more.

LuAnn had a vision for the event, and she really knew what she had to do. And she did it! The conversations after the panel discussions were so interactive that it felt as if there were only twenty people in the room, even though there were almost 200 people there! It was really intense in the very best way possible so we're working on doing it again, probably in eight months to a year's time. In the meantime, there's a lot of stuff coming up, like the smaller one-day events and the Power Talk Friday tours. Tune in now, to find out how to turn your inspiration into action.

Show highlights:

  • LuAnn thanks everyone and gives a quick recap of her event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation.
  • You can go to the blog post on LuAnn's website LuAnn Nigara to see the pictures and get an overview of everything that happened at the event.
  • LuAnn talks about her new book, A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts. It can really help you to up your game in business.
  • LuAnn shares some of the keys to upping your business game.
  • Watch your mindset, and be careful not to be closed to new ideas for success.
  • Look at the stories you tell yourself about money.
  • Examine your own mindset about numbers. Michele Williams, in LuAnn's new book, says not to play the song in your head: I’m creative so I’m not good at numbers.
  • Examine your mindset about your fees and don't pretend your rates are about the area you live in. Your rates are related only to your confidence as a designer and business person.
  • What it means to not save your client's money.
  • It is your job to make your clients aware of the best solution for their challenge or problem. They don’t have to do as you suggest but, as the expert, you must make them aware of it.
  • Not saving your client's money also means that when they can’t afford something, they don’t get it. You don’t lower the price to meet their budget.
  • Customer service is critical in creating a successful business.
  • Satisfied clients return. Dissatisfied don’t always tell you, they just don’t return.
  • Own your mistakes. Clients know when you are lying and lying is worse than making a mistake.
  • Take action!
  • With so much information from the live event and the podcast, overwhelm becomes a real possibility, so you have to break things down and work on your business, to get better and to become more profitable.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Fred Berns #289

Vincere #356

Chris Ramey #345

Sandra Espinet #287

Links and resources:

Kravet is having a sale at their outlet. And on any regular Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order get 10% off with the code AWDB10 at checkout.

Mydoma Studio for project management, time tracking, invoices, communication and saving time: A Well Designed Business

A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts

]]> 2362 no 427: Park & Oak Interior Design: From the Park Bench to Luxury Design Firm in 3 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/425-park-oak-interior-design-from-the-park-bench-to-luxury-design-firm-in-3-years Welcome to the show! We have Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto, the founders of Park and Oak Interior Design Studio, located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, with us today. These ladies work on new construction, renovation, and furnishing projects across the US, and you may even know them from their Instagram, with 130 000 followers. The way that they handle themselves and speak about their firm really conveys the confidence that they have in what they're doing. And the success they've had in their first three years in business is not at all typical. In today's episode, Renee and Christina pull back the curtain and boldly share with us their experiences and the lessons they have learned over the last three years. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share. Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto founded the Park & Oak interior design studio in 2015. They are known for creating homes that are visually stunning, yet functional and comfortable. Their work, rooted in the art of timeless style, is driven by the belief that design can be used to create feelings of comfort and happiness. It combines the best of their individual aesthetics for a unique look. Christina and Renee have a creative energy that is engaging to work with. Using beautiful and unexpected sources of inspiration, they work collaboratively with clients to create spaces that thoughtfully honor the spirit and traditions of their owner. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Renee and Christina talk about what each of them brought to the table when they started out, and about what attracted them to each other, as business partners. Some of the one-year and five-year goals that they established when first starting out. Renee and Christina's approach to the individual roles that they have in the business. Renee describes the really special way that she and Christina work together. From a park bench to a studio. The first person that they hired was a bookkeeper. What kept them powering through in the beginning, when they were sacrificing a lot and there were many challenges to face. Struggling with balancing family life and business. It took some time to bring their really awesome team together. In year two, they experienced a turning point in the business. They use a finite system to prevent problems and execute their projects efficiently. Learning from their mistakes and gaining the courage to stand up for themselves. Creating the right systems, in order to protect themselves. There's really a lot going on behind the scenes too. How they find the time to keep their systems in order and their projects running smoothly. Renee is behind their really impressive Instagram following. Links: Park And Oak Facebook: Park And Oak Design Twitter: Park And Oak Instagram: Park And Oak Design Pinterest: Park And Oak Tue, 07 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Park & Oak Interior Design: From the Park Bench to Luxury Design Firm in 3 Years full 427 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto, the founders of Park and Oak Interior Design Studio, located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, with us today. These ladies work on new construction, renovation, and furnishing projects across... Welcome to the show! We have Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto, the founders of Park and Oak Interior Design Studio, located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, with us today. These ladies work on new construction, renovation, and furnishing projects across the US, and you may even know them from their Instagram, with 130 000 followers. The way that they handle themselves and speak about their firm really conveys the confidence that they have in what they're doing. And the success they've had in their first three years in business is not at all typical. In today's episode, Renee and Christina pull back the curtain and boldly share with us their experiences and the lessons they have learned over the last three years. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share. Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto founded the Park & Oak interior design studio in 2015. They are known for creating homes that are visually stunning, yet functional and comfortable. Their work, rooted in the art of timeless style, is driven by the belief that design can be used to create feelings of comfort and happiness. It combines the best of their individual aesthetics for a unique look. Christina and Renee have a creative energy that is engaging to work with. Using beautiful and unexpected sources of inspiration, they work collaboratively with clients to create spaces that thoughtfully honor the spirit and traditions of their owner. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Renee and Christina talk about what each of them brought to the table when they started out, and about what attracted them to each other, as business partners. Some of the one-year and five-year goals that they established when first starting out. Renee and Christina's approach to the individual roles that they have in the business. Renee describes the really special way that she and Christina work together. From a park bench to a studio. The first person that they hired was a bookkeeper. What kept them powering through in the beginning, when they were sacrificing a lot and there were many challenges to face. Struggling with balancing family life and business. It took some time to bring their really awesome team together. In year two, they experienced a turning point in the business. They use a finite system to prevent problems and execute their projects efficiently. Learning from their mistakes and gaining the courage to stand up for themselves. Creating the right systems, in order to protect themselves. There's really a lot going on behind the scenes too. How they find the time to keep their systems in order and their projects running smoothly. Renee is behind their really impressive Instagram following. Links: Park And Oak Facebook: Park And Oak Design Twitter: Park And Oak Instagram: Park And Oak Design Pinterest: Park And Oak Welcome to the show! We have Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto, the founders of Park and Oak Interior Design Studio, located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, with us today. These ladies work on new construction, renovation, and furnishing projects across the US, and you may even know them from their Instagram, with 130 000 followers. The way that they handle themselves and speak about their firm really conveys the confidence that they have in what they're doing. And the success they've had in their first three years in business is not at all typical. In today's episode, Renee and Christina pull back the curtain and boldly share with us their experiences and the lessons they have learned over the last three years. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share.

Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto founded the Park & Oak interior design studio in 2015. They are known for creating homes that are visually stunning, yet functional and comfortable. Their work, rooted in the art of timeless style, is driven by the belief that design can be used to create feelings of comfort and happiness. It combines the best of their individual aesthetics for a unique look. Christina and Renee have a creative energy that is engaging to work with. Using beautiful and unexpected sources of inspiration, they work collaboratively with clients to create spaces that thoughtfully honor the spirit and traditions of their owner. Tune in now for more!

Show Highlights:

  • Renee and Christina talk about what each of them brought to the table when they started out, and about what attracted them to each other, as business partners.
  • Some of the one-year and five-year goals that they established when first starting out.
  • Renee and Christina's approach to the individual roles that they have in the business.
  • Renee describes the really special way that she and Christina work together.
  • From a park bench to a studio.
  • The first person that they hired was a bookkeeper.
  • What kept them powering through in the beginning, when they were sacrificing a lot and there were many challenges to face.
  • Struggling with balancing family life and business.
  • It took some time to bring their really awesome team together.
  • In year two, they experienced a turning point in the business.
  • They use a finite system to prevent problems and execute their projects efficiently.
  • Learning from their mistakes and gaining the courage to stand up for themselves.
  • Creating the right systems, in order to protect themselves.
  • There's really a lot going on behind the scenes too.
  • How they find the time to keep their systems in order and their projects running smoothly.
  • Renee is behind their really impressive Instagram following.

Links:

Park And Oak

Facebook: Park And Oak Design

Twitter: Park And Oak

Instagram: Park And Oak Design

Pinterest: Park And Oak

]]> 4344 no 426: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generating Business Referrals...Without Asking http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/426-power-talk-friday-stacey-brown-randall-generating-business-referralswithout-asking Welcome! Stacey Brown Randall joins us on the show today. Stacey, a three-times repeat guest on the podcast, is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, the Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacey really has a lot to share, to teach, and to give that is of genuine value, and she does some wonderful work with entrepreneurs. In her first and second episodes, she talked to us about Employee Management (#69), and the Client Experience (#93). In today's episode, she will explain How To Get Referrals Without Asking. Tune in now, to find out more. Stacey, who has a Master’s in Organizational Communication, provides a roadmap for small business owners and solopreneurs to generate referrals without asking through her Growth By Referrals program. She is the author of the book, Generating Business Referral- Without Asking, and she also hosts her own podcast, Roadmap to Grow your Business. Stacey lives in Charlotte NC with her husband and three kids. Listen in today, to find out what Stacey has to share about building relationships and planting the seeds of referral. Show highlights: Janelle Photopoulos changed certain things in her business, to up the client experience, based on her working with Stacey. Stacey talks about her work with Janelle. Stacey explains how she got to understand interior designers so well. Why Stacey hated asking for referrals. Stacey is debunking the advice that we've all been given, that we have to ask everyone for referrals at the end of a project. Asking for referrals generally makes people feel really uncomfortable. Changing the way we think about referrals. Looking for ways to fill a funnel after failing in her business. Stacey started unpacking the psychology and the human dynamic behind why referrals happen. Referrals actually happen because they are triggered. Why manufactured triggers are not successful. Making yourself look like a hero by offering a solution to a problem is the best way to get referrals. Stacey shares the trigger for making a referral happen. How to trigger always being top of mind in a referral source. What constitutes a great referral. Taking great care of the relationships with your referral sub-set. Identifying your referral sources. These are gold! How baby designers can start building relationships with referral sources. Using the right language. Taking care of your referral sources year after year. It all comes down to authentic relationships. Stacey's bio: Stacey Brown Randall is a member of the business failure club, a contrarian on how to generate referrals and a supporter of the entrepreneurial dream. Through her programs, she provides a roadmap to take control of your business. Stacey’s quest to crack the code on how to generate referrals without asking began after her first business failed. When she started her second business – a business and productivity coaching practice – she knew keeping her pipeline full of new clients would be one of the biggest differentiators from her business failure. She honed-in on referrals as the main source of prospects for her second business but wasn’t satisfied with the conventional advice which is to receive referrals you must ask. Stacey has taught her “no asking” referral generation strategy to hundreds of companies including Bank of America, Carroll Financial, International Minute Press, Dogtopia, O’Connor Insurance Associates, ACC Associates (Mortgage Advisor), Slater Interiors, Real Living Real Estate, Milazzo Webb Law Firm, Wells Fargo Advisors, Success Institute, HM Properties, Ameriprise, Farris Cooke CPA, Keller Williams, LearningRX and more small businesses and solopreneurs. She is a three-time entrepreneur, author of Generating Business Referrals...Without Asking, and host of the Roadmap to Grow your Business podcast. Stacey received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids, a 10-year- old son, 8-year-old daughter and she and her husband are raising their 11-year-old nephew.   Links: Stacey Brown Randall Facebook LinkedIn Youtube Twitter Instagram Previous episodes Stacey has been on: #69 Employee Management #93 The Client Experience Other episode mentioned in today's show: Janelle Photopoulos, Blakely Interior Design #364 Stacey is a co-author in LuAnn's new book: LuAnn Nigara Fri, 03 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall: Generating Business Referrals...Without Asking full 426 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Stacey Brown Randall joins us on the show today. Stacey, a three-times repeat guest on the podcast, is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, the Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacey really has a lot to share, to... Welcome! Stacey Brown Randall joins us on the show today. Stacey, a three-times repeat guest on the podcast, is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, the Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacey really has a lot to share, to teach, and to give that is of genuine value, and she does some wonderful work with entrepreneurs. In her first and second episodes, she talked to us about Employee Management (#69), and the Client Experience (#93). In today's episode, she will explain How To Get Referrals Without Asking. Tune in now, to find out more. Stacey, who has a Master’s in Organizational Communication, provides a roadmap for small business owners and solopreneurs to generate referrals without asking through her Growth By Referrals program. She is the author of the book, Generating Business Referral- Without Asking, and she also hosts her own podcast, Roadmap to Grow your Business. Stacey lives in Charlotte NC with her husband and three kids. Listen in today, to find out what Stacey has to share about building relationships and planting the seeds of referral. Show highlights: Janelle Photopoulos changed certain things in her business, to up the client experience, based on her working with Stacey. Stacey talks about her work with Janelle. Stacey explains how she got to understand interior designers so well. Why Stacey hated asking for referrals. Stacey is debunking the advice that we've all been given, that we have to ask everyone for referrals at the end of a project. Asking for referrals generally makes people feel really uncomfortable. Changing the way we think about referrals. Looking for ways to fill a funnel after failing in her business. Stacey started unpacking the psychology and the human dynamic behind why referrals happen. Referrals actually happen because they are triggered. Why manufactured triggers are not successful. Making yourself look like a hero by offering a solution to a problem is the best way to get referrals. Stacey shares the trigger for making a referral happen. How to trigger always being top of mind in a referral source. What constitutes a great referral. Taking great care of the relationships with your referral sub-set. Identifying your referral sources. These are gold! How baby designers can start building relationships with referral sources. Using the right language. Taking care of your referral sources year after year. It all comes down to authentic relationships. Stacey's bio: Stacey Brown Randall is a member of the business failure club, a contrarian on how to generate referrals and a supporter of the entrepreneurial dream. Through her programs, she provides a roadmap to take control of your business. Stacey’s quest to crack the code on how to generate referrals without asking began after her first business failed. When she started her second business – a business and productivity coaching practice – she knew keeping her pipeline full of new clients would be one of the biggest differentiators from her business failure. She honed-in on referrals as the main source of prospects for her second business but wasn’t satisfied with the conventional advice which is to receive referrals you must ask. Stacey has taught her “no asking” referral generation strategy to hundreds of companies including Bank of America, Carroll Financial, International Minute Press, Dogtopia, O’Connor Insurance Associates, ACC Associates (Mortgage Advisor), Slater Interiors, Real Living Real Estate, Milazzo Webb Law Firm, Wells Fargo Advisors, Success Institute, HM Properties, Ameriprise, Farris Cooke CPA, Keller Williams, LearningRX and more small businesses and solopreneurs. She is a three-time entrepreneur, author of Generating Business Referrals...Without Asking, and host of the Roadmap to Grow your Business podcast. Stacey received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids, a 10-year- old son, 8-year-old daughter and she and her husband are raising their 11-year-old nephew.   Links: Stacey Brown Randall Facebook LinkedIn Youtube Twitter Instagram Previous episodes Stacey has been on: #69 Employee Management #93 The Client Experience Other episode mentioned in today's show: Janelle Photopoulos, Blakely Interior Design #364 Stacey is a co-author in LuAnn's new book: LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Stacey Brown Randall joins us on the show today. Stacey, a three-times repeat guest on the podcast, is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, the Power Talk Friday Experts. Stacey really has a lot to share, to teach, and to give that is of genuine value, and she does some wonderful work with entrepreneurs. In her first and second episodes, she talked to us about Employee Management (#69), and the Client Experience (#93). In today's episode, she will explain How To Get Referrals Without Asking. Tune in now, to find out more.

Stacey, who has a Master’s in Organizational Communication, provides a roadmap for small business owners and solopreneurs to generate referrals without asking through her Growth By Referrals program. She is the author of the book, Generating Business Referral- Without Asking, and she also hosts her own podcast, Roadmap to Grow your Business. Stacey lives in Charlotte NC with her husband and three kids. Listen in today, to find out what Stacey has to share about building relationships and planting the seeds of referral.

Show highlights:

  • Janelle Photopoulos changed certain things in her business, to up the client experience, based on her working with Stacey.
  • Stacey talks about her work with Janelle.
  • Stacey explains how she got to understand interior designers so well.
  • Why Stacey hated asking for referrals.
  • Stacey is debunking the advice that we've all been given, that we have to ask everyone for referrals at the end of a project.
  • Asking for referrals generally makes people feel really uncomfortable.
  • Changing the way we think about referrals.
  • Looking for ways to fill a funnel after failing in her business.
  • Stacey started unpacking the psychology and the human dynamic behind why referrals happen.
  • Referrals actually happen because they are triggered.
  • Why manufactured triggers are not successful.
  • Making yourself look like a hero by offering a solution to a problem is the best way to get referrals.
  • Stacey shares the trigger for making a referral happen.
  • How to trigger always being top of mind in a referral source.
  • What constitutes a great referral.
  • Taking great care of the relationships with your referral sub-set.
  • Identifying your referral sources. These are gold!
  • How baby designers can start building relationships with referral sources.
  • Using the right language.
  • Taking care of your referral sources year after year.
  • It all comes down to authentic relationships.

Stacey's bio:

Stacey Brown Randall is a member of the business failure club, a contrarian on how to generate referrals and a supporter of the entrepreneurial dream. Through her programs, she provides a roadmap to take control of your business.

Stacey’s quest to crack the code on how to generate referrals without asking began after her first business failed. When she started her second business – a business and productivity coaching practice – she knew keeping her pipeline full of new clients would be one of the biggest differentiators from her business failure. She honed-in on referrals as the main source of prospects for her second business but wasn’t satisfied with the conventional advice which is to receive referrals you must ask.

Stacey has taught her “no asking” referral generation strategy to hundreds of companies including Bank of America, Carroll Financial, International Minute Press, Dogtopia, O’Connor Insurance Associates, ACC Associates (Mortgage Advisor), Slater Interiors, Real Living Real Estate, Milazzo Webb Law Firm, Wells Fargo Advisors, Success Institute, HM Properties, Ameriprise, Farris Cooke CPA, Keller Williams, LearningRX and more small businesses and solopreneurs.

She is a three-time entrepreneur, author of Generating Business Referrals...Without Asking, and host of the Roadmap to Grow your Business podcast.

Stacey received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids, a 10-year- old son, 8-year-old daughter and she and her husband are raising their 11-year-old nephew. 

 Links:

Stacey Brown Randall

Facebook

LinkedIn

Youtube

Twitter

Instagram

Previous episodes Stacey has been on:

#69 Employee Management

#93 The Client Experience

Other episode mentioned in today's show:

Janelle Photopoulos, Blakely Interior Design #364

Stacey is a co-author in LuAnn's new book:

LuAnn Nigara

]]> 3252 no 425: Misty Maxey: Niching, Coaching and Pushing Through Fear http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/425-misty-maxey-niching-coaching-and-pushing-through-fear Welcome to today's episode! We have Misty Maxey, the Bachelor Pad Designer, on the show with us today. Misty has decided to fully niche her business into designing strictly for bachelors. After spending some time doing hobby designing, she finally made the decision to get serious and look for the help she needed to learn the difference between a hobby and a business. On the show today, she explains how she knew that she had to reach out to coaches and other accomplished designers, in order to be successful. Misty really understands that by pushing through fear and doing things that scare you, you level up and make things happen. She really has her eyes wide open, and her website, (Misty Maxey) with its clear and authentic copy, describes very distinctly what she does, how she does it, and who she does it for. Listen in today, to hear what Misty has to share about the really intentional way she set up her business. Misty Maxey has always loved interior design. With two artistic parents, her creative path was written in the stars. Always seeking to grow in her knowledge and understanding of the interior design field, she regularly sought out the experience from successful designers. With knowledge and life experiences forming her understanding of the importance of interior design, she opened her business with the goal of inspiring bachelors to live their best life ever by co-creating their home that reflects who they are and to become. As a survivor of domestic violence, Misty regularly gives back by providing complimentary design services to survivors and their families. This restores dignity and gives back to her community. Tune in now, for more! Show highlights: Misty's website is really clear and specific about what she does. Tapping into the metrosexual market in Portland. Misty explains why she likes to work with bachelors. The underlying message in Misty's approach to interior design. Guys like to have their outdoor hobbies reflected in their home. Misty honors the way the guys she designs for like to live. Letting her clients know in a really fun way that they will be making an investment. How Misty learned that guys are comfortable talking about money and business. Transparency and communication are the two main things for Misty. What transparency means for Misty. Where Misty sources her products. The retail markup that Misty adds to her products. Misty explains where her money is coming from. The different packages that Misty offers. Misty's way of dealing with damaged deliveries. Misty hired the services of a market research company in Portland. Misty talks about the business coaches she has worked with. The book, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield, really helped Misty push past her fear. Links: Website: Misty Maxey Instagram: Misty Maxey Designs Pinterest: Misty Maxey Twitter: Misty Maxey Books mentioned: Do the Work: Overcome Resistance and Get Out of Your Own Way by Steven Pressfield The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield Tue, 30 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Misty Maxey: Niching, Coaching and Pushing Through Fear full 425 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have Misty Maxey, the Bachelor Pad Designer, on the show with us today. Misty has decided to fully niche her business into designing strictly for bachelors. After spending some time doing hobby designing, she finally... Welcome to today's episode! We have Misty Maxey, the Bachelor Pad Designer, on the show with us today. Misty has decided to fully niche her business into designing strictly for bachelors. After spending some time doing hobby designing, she finally made the decision to get serious and look for the help she needed to learn the difference between a hobby and a business. On the show today, she explains how she knew that she had to reach out to coaches and other accomplished designers, in order to be successful. Misty really understands that by pushing through fear and doing things that scare you, you level up and make things happen. She really has her eyes wide open, and her website, (Misty Maxey) with its clear and authentic copy, describes very distinctly what she does, how she does it, and who she does it for. Listen in today, to hear what Misty has to share about the really intentional way she set up her business. Misty Maxey has always loved interior design. With two artistic parents, her creative path was written in the stars. Always seeking to grow in her knowledge and understanding of the interior design field, she regularly sought out the experience from successful designers. With knowledge and life experiences forming her understanding of the importance of interior design, she opened her business with the goal of inspiring bachelors to live their best life ever by co-creating their home that reflects who they are and to become. As a survivor of domestic violence, Misty regularly gives back by providing complimentary design services to survivors and their families. This restores dignity and gives back to her community. Tune in now, for more! Show highlights: Misty's website is really clear and specific about what she does. Tapping into the metrosexual market in Portland. Misty explains why she likes to work with bachelors. The underlying message in Misty's approach to interior design. Guys like to have their outdoor hobbies reflected in their home. Misty honors the way the guys she designs for like to live. Letting her clients know in a really fun way that they will be making an investment. How Misty learned that guys are comfortable talking about money and business. Transparency and communication are the two main things for Misty. What transparency means for Misty. Where Misty sources her products. The retail markup that Misty adds to her products. Misty explains where her money is coming from. The different packages that Misty offers. Misty's way of dealing with damaged deliveries. Misty hired the services of a market research company in Portland. Misty talks about the business coaches she has worked with. The book, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield, really helped Misty push past her fear. Links: Website: Misty Maxey Instagram: Misty Maxey Designs Pinterest: Misty Maxey Twitter: Misty Maxey Books mentioned: Do the Work: Overcome Resistance and Get Out of Your Own Way by Steven Pressfield The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield Welcome to today's episode! We have Misty Maxey, the Bachelor Pad Designer, on the show with us today. Misty has decided to fully niche her business into designing strictly for bachelors. After spending some time doing hobby designing, she finally made the decision to get serious and look for the help she needed to learn the difference between a hobby and a business. On the show today, she explains how she knew that she had to reach out to coaches and other accomplished designers, in order to be successful. Misty really understands that by pushing through fear and doing things that scare you, you level up and make things happen. She really has her eyes wide open, and her website, (Misty Maxey) with its clear and authentic copy, describes very distinctly what she does, how she does it, and who she does it for. Listen in today, to hear what Misty has to share about the really intentional way she set up her business.

Misty Maxey has always loved interior design. With two artistic parents, her creative path was written in the stars. Always seeking to grow in her knowledge and understanding of the interior design field, she regularly sought out the experience from successful designers.

With knowledge and life experiences forming her understanding of the importance of interior design, she opened her business with the goal of inspiring bachelors to live their best life ever by co-creating their home that reflects who they are and to become.

As a survivor of domestic violence, Misty regularly gives back by providing complimentary design services to survivors and their families. This restores dignity and gives back to her community. Tune in now, for more!

Show highlights:

  • Misty's website is really clear and specific about what she does.
  • Tapping into the metrosexual market in Portland.
  • Misty explains why she likes to work with bachelors.
  • The underlying message in Misty's approach to interior design.
  • Guys like to have their outdoor hobbies reflected in their home.
  • Misty honors the way the guys she designs for like to live.
  • Letting her clients know in a really fun way that they will be making an investment.
  • How Misty learned that guys are comfortable talking about money and business.
  • Transparency and communication are the two main things for Misty.
  • What transparency means for Misty.
  • Where Misty sources her products.
  • The retail markup that Misty adds to her products.
  • Misty explains where her money is coming from.
  • The different packages that Misty offers.
  • Misty's way of dealing with damaged deliveries.
  • Misty hired the services of a market research company in Portland.
  • Misty talks about the business coaches she has worked with.
  • The book, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield, really helped Misty push past her fear.

Links:

Website: Misty Maxey

Instagram: Misty Maxey Designs

Pinterest: Misty Maxey

Twitter: Misty Maxey

Books mentioned:

Do the Work: Overcome Resistance and Get Out of Your Own Way by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield

]]> 3826 no 424: Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/424-power-talk-friday-re-visiting-michele-williams-tips-for-time-management Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity. Show Notes: What is her background in the financial software industry? When did she decide to start her window treatment business? Did she start with a business plan? How did she start to make her business bigger? What is the Design Collective in Atlanta? What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful? How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business? What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte? Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things? Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity? Is it better to be proactive or reactive? How should you plan your calendar? Resources: Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: Scarlet Thread LinkedIn: Michele Williams Twitter: Michele Williams  Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting Previous shows mentioned: #104 Kate the Socialite #94 Debi Pinelli (A& J Interiors) #69, #93 Stacey Brown Randall #128 Grace McNamara #125, #317 Nicole Heymer #141 Jim Riviello Links: WCAA IWCE Vision Window Fashion Vision Luann Nigara Book 2 Fri, 26 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Re-Visiting Michele Williams’ Tips for Time Management full 424 LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background... Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity. Show Notes: What is her background in the financial software industry? When did she decide to start her window treatment business? Did she start with a business plan? How did she start to make her business bigger? What is the Design Collective in Atlanta? What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful? How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business? What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte? Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things? Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity? Is it better to be proactive or reactive? How should you plan your calendar? Resources: Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: Scarlet Thread LinkedIn: Michele Williams Twitter: Michele Williams  Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting Previous shows mentioned: #104 Kate the Socialite #94 Debi Pinelli (A& J Interiors) #69, #93 Stacey Brown Randall #128 Grace McNamara #125, #317 Nicole Heymer #141 Jim Riviello Links: WCAA IWCE Vision Window Fashion Vision Luann Nigara Book 2 Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity.

Show Notes:

  • What is her background in the financial software industry?
  • When did she decide to start her window treatment business?
  • Did she start with a business plan?
  • How did she start to make her business bigger?
  • What is the Design Collective in Atlanta?
  • What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful?
  • How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business?
  • What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte?
  • Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things?
  • Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity?
  • Is it better to be proactive or reactive?
  • How should you plan your calendar?

Resources:

Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Instagram: Scarlet Thread

LinkedIn: Michele Williams

Twitter: Michele Williams 

Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Previous shows mentioned: #104 Kate the Socialite #94 Debi Pinelli (A& J Interiors) #69, #93 Stacey Brown Randall #128 Grace McNamara #125, #317 Nicole Heymer #141 Jim Riviello

Links:

WCAA

IWCE Vision

Window Fashion Vision

Luann Nigara Book 2

]]> 4073 no 423: Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only" and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/423-tiffanie-white-the-nappy-bohemian-your-only-and-lessons-from-a-new-interior-design-business Welcome to today's show! We're talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie's business, what she's doing, and the lessons she's learned from running her business. Tiffannie's job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today's episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people's lives. Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie. About Tiffannie's personal and unique 'only'. Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she's learned. Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business. Being focused and clear in her vision. All about Tiffannie's e-design packages. Tiffannie's e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth. Settling on a name. Going with the flow and trusting. Some of the challenges she's faced. You have to value what you do to have a thriving business. Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business. Work for free only if it's worth your while. Some tips about blogging. Tiffannie's business goals for the next year. Links: Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian   Previous shows mentioned: Albie Buabeng #348 Chaney Widmer #260, #327 Cheryl Janice #41 Sue Firestone #404 Tue, 23 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Tiffannie White, ​The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only" and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business full 423 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We're talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design... Welcome to today's show! We're talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie's business, what she's doing, and the lessons she's learned from running her business. Tiffannie's job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today's episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people's lives. Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie. About Tiffannie's personal and unique 'only'. Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she's learned. Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business. Being focused and clear in her vision. All about Tiffannie's e-design packages. Tiffannie's e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth. Settling on a name. Going with the flow and trusting. Some of the challenges she's faced. You have to value what you do to have a thriving business. Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business. Work for free only if it's worth your while. Some tips about blogging. Tiffannie's business goals for the next year. Links: Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian The Nappy Bohemian   Previous shows mentioned: Albie Buabeng #348 Chaney Widmer #260, #327 Cheryl Janice #41 Sue Firestone #404 Welcome to today's show! We're talking to Tiffannie White today, the creator of The Nappy Bohemian, located in Oakland, California. Tiffannie is a blogger, an interior stylist, and an e-designer and she also has a full-time position as a design consultant at  Fireclay Tile. After spending many years as a career sales professional, The Nappy Bohemian was born in 2017 because Tiffannie wanted to merge her architecture education, her love for tile and ceramics, and her desire to showcase the real black experience in the world of interior design. Tune in today, to hear about Tiffannie's business, what she's doing, and the lessons she's learned from running her business.

Tiffannie's job with Fireclay Tile has allowed her an inside look on the world of artisan makers, and it has also connected her with terrific designers in her East Coast territory. In today's episode, she describes how much she loves her job, she talks openly about the lessons and challenges she experienced in her first year in business, and she shares her goals for the year to come. Listen in now, to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Tiffannie talks about her traumatic experience of taking her daughter to the hospital and how her daughter really loved the decor there. This showed Tiffannie just how important interior design really is in people's lives.
  • Creating a holistic space is really important for Tiffannie.
  • About Tiffannie's personal and unique 'only'.
  • Tiffannie is proud of the lessons she's learned.
  • Tiffannie talks about her first eighteen months in business.
  • Being focused and clear in her vision.
  • All about Tiffannie's e-design packages.
  • Tiffannie's e-design is driven mainly through her Instagram and word-of-mouth.
  • Settling on a name.
  • Going with the flow and trusting.
  • Some of the challenges she's faced.
  • You have to value what you do to have a thriving business.
  • Being careful not to compromise in too many areas when starting out in a business.
  • Work for free only if it's worth your while.
  • Some tips about blogging.
  • Tiffannie's business goals for the next year.

Links:

Instagram: The Nappy Bohemian

The Nappy Bohemian

The Nappy Bohemian

 

Previous shows mentioned:

Albie Buabeng #348

Chaney Widmer #260, #327

Cheryl Janice #41

Sue Firestone #404

]]> 3745 no 422: Power Talk Friday: Jean Brownhill, Founder of Sweeten: Connecting Interior Designers and General Contractors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/422-power-talk-friday-jean-brownhill-founder-of-sweeten-connecting-interior-designers-and-general-contractors Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really thrilled to have Jean Brownhill, founder, and CEO of Sweeten, on the show with us today. Jean, who has almost 500 000 followers on Instagram, is onto something that you, as designers, really need to know about. She has a designer trade VIP program where she connects interior designers with the really well-screened, well-vetted general contractors that her company has worked with over the years. Right now, Sweeten has thousands of these contractors on their books. This means that whatever kind of project an interior designer brings to them, they can match it. Listen in today, to find out all about Jean's really awesome designer trade VIP program and how it can really benefit you, as a designer. After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process. So Sweeten was launched in 2011. The concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Tune in to find out what Jean has to share about the really unique platform that she's created. Show highlights: Jean explains how Sweeten assists interior designers. Finding the right general contractor to suit the design project. Jean talks about where she started with Sweeten. Jean wanted to figure out how to get high-quality construction and design resources to regular people. How Designers get matched a contractor through Jean's website. What's included in the service that Jean offers. Sweeten has a vetted group of contractors that have all committed to working transparently. The kind of data that they re able to collect as a result of staying with all their projects to completion. They do an original content piece on their blog every single day. Sweeten can hold their contractors accountable based on the fact that their communications, signed contracts, and estimates are all on the Sweeten platform. Sweeten is always working on ways to get everybody on the path to completion. How the contractor's ratings on the Sweeten platform affect the number of projects Sweeten will send their way. The way that the contractors are incentivized to stay with Sweeten and deliver great service. Treading lightly in the process of learning what works best for everybody. Jean shares her contractor vetting process. Jean gives some tips for interior designers to work successfully with contractors. Sweeten charges interior designers no fee at all. Jean offers an awesome incentive of $500 for a referral. Bio: Jean Brownhill, Founder, and CEO of Sweeten After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean Brownhill spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process. Sweeten (as in “home, sweet home”) launched in 2011; the concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Today, Sweeten has more than $1B of construction projects in the pipeline. The service has been called a “Renovation Game-Changer,” with Jean hailed as “The Contractor Whisperer” by New York Magazine as well as one of Inc. Magazine’s “Most Innovative Women Founders in America.”  Sweeten brings trust, technology, and transparency to the $340B+ residential renovation industry, allowing consumers to renovate fearlessly. The company expanded to commercial projects—restaurants, retail, offices, etc.—in 2017. Just as Sweeten sets new standards for contractors, Jean is taking on traditional barriers for diversity and women in tech. She's a female founder disrupting a male-dominated industry. She’s co-founder of the African American Student Union (AASU) at Harvard's Graduate School of Design, an organization supporting African Americans in architecture, real estate, and urban planning. She’s a member of the 2018 Class of Henry Crown Fellows at the Aspen Institute. And she’s one of few black female entrepreneurs to raise $1M+ in venture capital, as featured in Vanity Fair. For more info, please contact Randi MacColl at randi@sweeten.com or 212-671-1713. Links: Sweeten Blog Sweeten Design Trade VIP Program: Sweeten Architects Designers Instagram: @sweeten_home Facebook: @theSweeten Pinterest: Sweeten Twitter: @sweeten home Fri, 19 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jean Brownhill, Founder of Sweeten: Connecting Interior Designers and General Contractors full 422 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really thrilled to have Jean Brownhill, founder, and CEO of Sweeten, on the show with us today. Jean, who has almost 500 000 followers on Instagram, is onto something that you, as designers, really need to know... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really thrilled to have Jean Brownhill, founder, and CEO of Sweeten, on the show with us today. Jean, who has almost 500 000 followers on Instagram, is onto something that you, as designers, really need to know about. She has a designer trade VIP program where she connects interior designers with the really well-screened, well-vetted general contractors that her company has worked with over the years. Right now, Sweeten has thousands of these contractors on their books. This means that whatever kind of project an interior designer brings to them, they can match it. Listen in today, to find out all about Jean's really awesome designer trade VIP program and how it can really benefit you, as a designer. After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process. So Sweeten was launched in 2011. The concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Tune in to find out what Jean has to share about the really unique platform that she's created. Show highlights: Jean explains how Sweeten assists interior designers. Finding the right general contractor to suit the design project. Jean talks about where she started with Sweeten. Jean wanted to figure out how to get high-quality construction and design resources to regular people. How Designers get matched a contractor through Jean's website. What's included in the service that Jean offers. Sweeten has a vetted group of contractors that have all committed to working transparently. The kind of data that they re able to collect as a result of staying with all their projects to completion. They do an original content piece on their blog every single day. Sweeten can hold their contractors accountable based on the fact that their communications, signed contracts, and estimates are all on the Sweeten platform. Sweeten is always working on ways to get everybody on the path to completion. How the contractor's ratings on the Sweeten platform affect the number of projects Sweeten will send their way. The way that the contractors are incentivized to stay with Sweeten and deliver great service. Treading lightly in the process of learning what works best for everybody. Jean shares her contractor vetting process. Jean gives some tips for interior designers to work successfully with contractors. Sweeten charges interior designers no fee at all. Jean offers an awesome incentive of $500 for a referral. Bio: Jean Brownhill, Founder, and CEO of Sweeten After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean Brownhill spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process. Sweeten (as in “home, sweet home”) launched in 2011; the concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Today, Sweeten has more than $1B of construction projects in the pipeline. The service has been called a “Renovation Game-Changer,” with Jean hailed as “The Contractor Whisperer” by New York Magazine as well as one of Inc. Magazine’s “Most Innovative Women Founders in America.”  Sweeten brings trust, technology, and transparency to the $340B+ residential renovation industry, allowing consumers to renovate fearlessly. The company expanded to commercial projects—restaurants, retail, offices, etc.—in 2017. Just as Sweeten sets new standards for contractors, Jean is taking on traditional barriers for diversity and women in tech. She's a female founder disrupting a male-dominated industry. She’s co-founder of the African American Student Union (AASU) at Harvard's Graduate School of Design, an organization supporting African Americans in architecture, real estate, and urban planning. She’s a member of the 2018 Class of Henry Crown Fellows at the Aspen Institute. And she’s one of few black female entrepreneurs to raise $1M+ in venture capital, as featured in Vanity Fair. For more info, please contact Randi MacColl at randi@sweeten.com or 212-671-1713. Links: Sweeten Blog Sweeten Design Trade VIP Program: Sweeten Architects Designers Instagram: @sweeten_home Facebook: @theSweeten Pinterest: Sweeten Twitter: @sweeten home Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really thrilled to have Jean Brownhill, founder, and CEO of Sweeten, on the show with us today. Jean, who has almost 500 000 followers on Instagram, is onto something that you, as designers, really need to know about. She has a designer trade VIP program where she connects interior designers with the really well-screened, well-vetted general contractors that her company has worked with over the years. Right now, Sweeten has thousands of these contractors on their books. This means that whatever kind of project an interior designer brings to them, they can match it. Listen in today, to find out all about Jean's really awesome designer trade VIP program and how it can really benefit you, as a designer.

After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process. So Sweeten was launched in 2011. The concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Tune in to find out what Jean has to share about the really unique platform that she's created.

Show highlights:

  • Jean explains how Sweeten assists interior designers.
  • Finding the right general contractor to suit the design project.
  • Jean talks about where she started with Sweeten.
  • Jean wanted to figure out how to get high-quality construction and design resources to regular people.
  • How Designers get matched a contractor through Jean's website.
  • What's included in the service that Jean offers.
  • Sweeten has a vetted group of contractors that have all committed to working transparently.
  • The kind of data that they re able to collect as a result of staying with all their projects to completion.
  • They do an original content piece on their blog every single day.
  • Sweeten can hold their contractors accountable based on the fact that their communications, signed contracts, and estimates are all on the Sweeten platform.
  • Sweeten is always working on ways to get everybody on the path to completion.
  • How the contractor's ratings on the Sweeten platform affect the number of projects Sweeten will send their way.
  • The way that the contractors are incentivized to stay with Sweeten and deliver great service.
  • Treading lightly in the process of learning what works best for everybody.
  • Jean shares her contractor vetting process.
  • Jean gives some tips for interior designers to work successfully with contractors.
  • Sweeten charges interior designers no fee at all.
  • Jean offers an awesome incentive of $500 for a referral.

Bio:

Jean Brownhill, Founder, and CEO of Sweeten

After earning an Architecture degree at The Cooper Union, Jean Brownhill spent a decade in design and construction, including in Global Architecture at Coach, where she won the Chairman’s Award for designing web platforms to streamline retail construction worldwide. After a challenging renovation of her own home, she saw the need for a free service to match people to vetted general contractors, providing support throughout the process.

Sweeten (as in “home, sweet home”) launched in 2011; the concept earned Jean a prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design.

Today, Sweeten has more than $1B of construction projects in the pipeline. The service has been called a “Renovation Game-Changer,” with Jean hailed as “The Contractor Whisperer” by New York Magazine as well as one of Inc. Magazine’s “Most Innovative Women Founders in America.”  Sweeten brings trust, technology, and transparency to the $340B+ residential renovation industry, allowing consumers to renovate fearlessly. The company expanded to commercial projects—restaurants, retail, offices, etc.—in 2017.

Just as Sweeten sets new standards for contractors, Jean is taking on traditional barriers for diversity and women in tech. She's a female founder disrupting a male-dominated industry. She’s co-founder of the African American Student Union (AASU) at Harvard's Graduate School of Design, an organization supporting African Americans in architecture, real estate, and urban planning. She’s a member of the 2018 Class of Henry Crown Fellows at the Aspen Institute. And she’s one of few black female entrepreneurs to raise $1M+ in venture capital, as featured in Vanity Fair.

For more info, please contact Randi MacColl at randi@sweeten.com or 212-671-1713.

Links:

Sweeten

Blog Sweeten

Design Trade VIP Program: Sweeten Architects Designers

Instagram: @sweeten_home

Facebook: @theSweeten

Pinterest: Sweeten

Twitter: @sweeten home

]]> 4345 no 421: Veranda Estate Homes: Design + Build One Stop Shop http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/421-veranda-estate-homes-design-build-one-stop-shop Welcome! Today we have Melissa Hryszko, the award-winning design brain behind Veranda Estate Homes Inc., join us on the show. For the past eighteen years, Melissa and her husband, Rob, have owned and operated one of Calgary's most successful and versatile luxury home building companies. Today, Melissa shares some of her best tips for growing her firm's Instagram following to an incredible 80 000 followers, and she also explains that she and Rob are crystal clear about who they will work with, and about the kinds of projects that they will do and will not do. Listen in today, to find out what it takes to consistently build between seven and ten custom homes per year, from the ground up. Melissa's formal education is in graphic design and advertising and yet it's really clear that she belongs in the world of interior design. She brings a meticulous level of detail to each and every project that Veranda is involved in, and she does all her designs by hand. Melissa also tackles each project on an individual basis to ensure that each one is unique and representing the Veranda brand. Tune in today to find out more. Show highlights: Melissa talks about Veranda's unique business model. Melissa is involved with every single home. How Veranda has the edge. Learning from past mistakes. Working with the best architect. Veranda only works from word-of-mouth advertising. Talking budget with clients. Working out ball-park prices. How Melissa's firm works with the different trades on each project. What it takes for a project to get off the ground. They have only five people on their team! About the weekly site meetings that happen every Tuesday morning. They use a program called Buildertrend to coordinate projects. Melissa shares some good practices for growing your Instagram following. Melissa spends more than two hours per day on Instagram. Instagram is about building relationships. Melissa tells us all about her podcast, Modern Design Minds. Links and resources: Melissa's Podcast: Modern Design Minds with her co-host Amy Kearns (from the Boston area). Amy Lynn Interiors Veranda Estate Homes Instagram: Veranda Interior Facebook: Veranda Estate Homes Modern Design Minds on Instagram: modern design minds Buildertrend: Builder Trend Modern Craftsman Podcast amylynn_interiors Visual Comfort Currey & Co Wingnut Social Podcast Modern Design Minds Podcast Previous guests mentioned in this episode: Circle Design #380 Judith Neary - Design Biz Live #170, #264, #326, #399, #410 Shea McGee #236, #270 Additional episodes about building your IG: Amber Lewis #184 Shea McGee #236, 270 Mr. Inkredible# 417 Mark McDonough #110 Darla Powell #203 and #330 More episodes about doing full design and build: Circle Design Studio with husband and wife team John and Theresa Dorlini #380 Angela Rasmussen of H2H Design+Build #181 Tue, 16 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Veranda Estate Homes: Design + Build One Stop Shop full 421 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Melissa Hryszko, the award-winning design brain behind Veranda Estate Homes Inc., join us on the show. For the past eighteen years, Melissa and her husband, Rob, have owned and operated one of Calgary's most successful and... Welcome! Today we have Melissa Hryszko, the award-winning design brain behind Veranda Estate Homes Inc., join us on the show. For the past eighteen years, Melissa and her husband, Rob, have owned and operated one of Calgary's most successful and versatile luxury home building companies. Today, Melissa shares some of her best tips for growing her firm's Instagram following to an incredible 80 000 followers, and she also explains that she and Rob are crystal clear about who they will work with, and about the kinds of projects that they will do and will not do. Listen in today, to find out what it takes to consistently build between seven and ten custom homes per year, from the ground up. Melissa's formal education is in graphic design and advertising and yet it's really clear that she belongs in the world of interior design. She brings a meticulous level of detail to each and every project that Veranda is involved in, and she does all her designs by hand. Melissa also tackles each project on an individual basis to ensure that each one is unique and representing the Veranda brand. Tune in today to find out more. Show highlights: Melissa talks about Veranda's unique business model. Melissa is involved with every single home. How Veranda has the edge. Learning from past mistakes. Working with the best architect. Veranda only works from word-of-mouth advertising. Talking budget with clients. Working out ball-park prices. How Melissa's firm works with the different trades on each project. What it takes for a project to get off the ground. They have only five people on their team! About the weekly site meetings that happen every Tuesday morning. They use a program called Buildertrend to coordinate projects. Melissa shares some good practices for growing your Instagram following. Melissa spends more than two hours per day on Instagram. Instagram is about building relationships. Melissa tells us all about her podcast, Modern Design Minds. Links and resources: Melissa's Podcast: Modern Design Minds with her co-host Amy Kearns (from the Boston area). Amy Lynn Interiors Veranda Estate Homes Instagram: Veranda Interior Facebook: Veranda Estate Homes Modern Design Minds on Instagram: modern design minds Buildertrend: Builder Trend Modern Craftsman Podcast amylynn_interiors Visual Comfort Currey & Co Wingnut Social Podcast Modern Design Minds Podcast Previous guests mentioned in this episode: Circle Design #380 Judith Neary - Design Biz Live #170, #264, #326, #399, #410 Shea McGee #236, #270 Additional episodes about building your IG: Amber Lewis #184 Shea McGee #236, 270 Mr. Inkredible# 417 Mark McDonough #110 Darla Powell #203 and #330 More episodes about doing full design and build: Circle Design Studio with husband and wife team John and Theresa Dorlini #380 Angela Rasmussen of H2H Design+Build #181 Welcome! Today we have Melissa Hryszko, the award-winning design brain behind Veranda Estate Homes Inc., join us on the show. For the past eighteen years, Melissa and her husband, Rob, have owned and operated one of Calgary's most successful and versatile luxury home building companies. Today, Melissa shares some of her best tips for growing her firm's Instagram following to an incredible 80 000 followers, and she also explains that she and Rob are crystal clear about who they will work with, and about the kinds of projects that they will do and will not do. Listen in today, to find out what it takes to consistently build between seven and ten custom homes per year, from the ground up.

Melissa's formal education is in graphic design and advertising and yet it's really clear that she belongs in the world of interior design. She brings a meticulous level of detail to each and every project that Veranda is involved in, and she does all her designs by hand. Melissa also tackles each project on an individual basis to ensure that each one is unique and representing the Veranda brand. Tune in today to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Melissa talks about Veranda's unique business model.
  • Melissa is involved with every single home.
  • How Veranda has the edge.
  • Learning from past mistakes.
  • Working with the best architect.
  • Veranda only works from word-of-mouth advertising.
  • Talking budget with clients.
  • Working out ball-park prices.
  • How Melissa's firm works with the different trades on each project.
  • What it takes for a project to get off the ground.
  • They have only five people on their team!
  • About the weekly site meetings that happen every Tuesday morning.
  • They use a program called Buildertrend to coordinate projects.
  • Melissa shares some good practices for growing your Instagram following.
  • Melissa spends more than two hours per day on Instagram.
  • Instagram is about building relationships.
  • Melissa tells us all about her podcast, Modern Design Minds.

Links and resources:

Melissa's Podcast: Modern Design Minds with her co-host Amy Kearns (from the Boston area).

Amy Lynn Interiors

Veranda Estate Homes

Instagram: Veranda Interior

Facebook: Veranda Estate Homes

Modern Design Minds on Instagram: modern design minds

Buildertrend: Builder Trend

Modern Craftsman Podcast

amylynn_interiors

Visual Comfort

Currey & Co

Wingnut Social Podcast

Modern Design Minds Podcast

Previous guests mentioned in this episode:

Circle Design #380

Judith Neary - Design Biz Live #170, #264, #326, #399, #410

Shea McGee #236, #270

Additional episodes about building your IG:

Amber Lewis #184

Shea McGee #236, 270

Mr. Inkredible# 417

Mark McDonough #110

Darla Powell #203 and #330

More episodes about doing full design and build:

Circle Design Studio with husband and wife team John and Theresa Dorlini #380

Angela Rasmussen of H2H Design+Build #181

]]> 4303 no 420: Power Talk Friday: Amanda Berlin- Visibility Strategies for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/420-power-talk-friday-amanda-berlin-visibility-strategies-for-your-interior-design-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted to introduce you to Amanda Berlin today. Amanda is a communications consultant specifically for entrepreneurs. She teaches visibility strategy, to help people to be seen and appreciated for their uniqueness. She tells us that what she does daily, in her PR niche, is much the same as every one of us, as entrepreneurs, has to do when marketing our businesses. It's about creating a story around a business or a product that really connects it with an audience. On the show today, she and LuAnn talk about the kinds of pitches that designers need to write, the types of media that are the right fit for designers, and how to create relationships with writers and reporters to get yourself and your projects featured more easily and more often. Tune in today, to find out how to be seen and appreciated! Amanda studied journalism at George Washington University. She interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and spent a decade writing media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. The pitches Amanda wrote resulted in appearances on almost every level of local television outlet in the country and on every national cable and network morning show at one time or another. Amanda has been featured on Carol Cox's Speaking Your Brand and she also has a podcast, The Empowered Publicity Podcast. Listen in today, to hear what Amanda has to share! Show highlights: Amanda has a really awesome 'about me' page. Starting with goals. Thinking about goals when considering media and visibility. Amanda explains what a PR opportunity looks like. Working out what's most important. Unearthing the evergreen and newsworthy opportunities. The two kinds of pitches that every designer needs to write. Why you need to be really specific about what you have to teach. Different pitches for different kinds of media. Looking at mainstream consumer media. Twitter is an excellent source of information about the media. The Profile Pitch. To get you deeper in with your niche audience. Telling your own story. Why you need to be willing to own your story. Going back to who you were before you became who you are. Pitching for podcasts. Making it as easy as possible for media to say 'yes'. The services that Amanda offers. Go to her website Amanda Berlin Bio: I’m a New Yorker by way of New Jersey with stints in Washington, DC and Madrid, Spain. I’m told my Jersey often shows through, whatever that means. I’m a mama of an only. I’m obsessed with my family as well as finding the exact right word to complete my thought in every conversation (it can get annoying). And peanut butter. I’m also obsessed with peanut butter. I was born to make sure we are all heard and seen and appreciated for our unique genius. I about died when I got a poem published in my high school literary magazine. I studied journalism at The George Washington University, interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and then came back to New York City. For a decade, I wrote media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. Clients would come to me with a spokesperson and some message points and I’d package it up and create a story that would get pitched to news outlets across the country. The pitches I wrote resulted in appearances on nearly every local television outlet in the country and every national cable and network morning show at one time or another. My day-to-day in this niche of PR is exactly what every last entrepreneur is tasked with doing when marketing their business. Take a spokesperson (themselves) and a message (their business or product) and create a story that connects with an audience. Amanda Berlin was referred to LuAnn by Amber De La Garza #385. Shows that correlate with this one: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Ren Millar #12 Ashley Hotham-Cox #321 Jane Dagney #351 Andrew Joseph #39 Jenny Madden #332 Links: Amanda's website: Amanda Berlin Amanda's podcast: Amanda Berlin Find Amanda on Facebook: Amanda Berlin Coaching Follow Amanda on Twitter: Amanda Berlin Valerie Fund Designer Showhouse April 23- May 19, 2019 Previous guests participating in the showhouse: Gail Davis Tina Ramchandani Blanche Garcia Marina Umali WindowWorks is supporting several designers in the Valerie Fund Showhouse by providing window treatments for their rooms. Kips Bay Showhouse May 2- May 30, 2019 Previous guest participating in Kips Bay: Corey Damen Jenkins Links to LuAnn's books: Book 1: Luann Nigara Book 2: Luann Nigara Fri, 12 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Amanda Berlin- Visibility Strategies for Your Interior Design Business full 420 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted to introduce you to Amanda Berlin today. Amanda is a communications consultant specifically for entrepreneurs. She teaches visibility strategy, to help people to be seen and appreciated for their... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted to introduce you to Amanda Berlin today. Amanda is a communications consultant specifically for entrepreneurs. She teaches visibility strategy, to help people to be seen and appreciated for their uniqueness. She tells us that what she does daily, in her PR niche, is much the same as every one of us, as entrepreneurs, has to do when marketing our businesses. It's about creating a story around a business or a product that really connects it with an audience. On the show today, she and LuAnn talk about the kinds of pitches that designers need to write, the types of media that are the right fit for designers, and how to create relationships with writers and reporters to get yourself and your projects featured more easily and more often. Tune in today, to find out how to be seen and appreciated! Amanda studied journalism at George Washington University. She interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and spent a decade writing media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. The pitches Amanda wrote resulted in appearances on almost every level of local television outlet in the country and on every national cable and network morning show at one time or another. Amanda has been featured on Carol Cox's Speaking Your Brand and she also has a podcast, The Empowered Publicity Podcast. Listen in today, to hear what Amanda has to share! Show highlights: Amanda has a really awesome 'about me' page. Starting with goals. Thinking about goals when considering media and visibility. Amanda explains what a PR opportunity looks like. Working out what's most important. Unearthing the evergreen and newsworthy opportunities. The two kinds of pitches that every designer needs to write. Why you need to be really specific about what you have to teach. Different pitches for different kinds of media. Looking at mainstream consumer media. Twitter is an excellent source of information about the media. The Profile Pitch. To get you deeper in with your niche audience. Telling your own story. Why you need to be willing to own your story. Going back to who you were before you became who you are. Pitching for podcasts. Making it as easy as possible for media to say 'yes'. The services that Amanda offers. Go to her website Amanda Berlin Bio: I’m a New Yorker by way of New Jersey with stints in Washington, DC and Madrid, Spain. I’m told my Jersey often shows through, whatever that means. I’m a mama of an only. I’m obsessed with my family as well as finding the exact right word to complete my thought in every conversation (it can get annoying). And peanut butter. I’m also obsessed with peanut butter. I was born to make sure we are all heard and seen and appreciated for our unique genius. I about died when I got a poem published in my high school literary magazine. I studied journalism at The George Washington University, interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and then came back to New York City. For a decade, I wrote media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. Clients would come to me with a spokesperson and some message points and I’d package it up and create a story that would get pitched to news outlets across the country. The pitches I wrote resulted in appearances on nearly every local television outlet in the country and every national cable and network morning show at one time or another. My day-to-day in this niche of PR is exactly what every last entrepreneur is tasked with doing when marketing their business. Take a spokesperson (themselves) and a message (their business or product) and create a story that connects with an audience. Amanda Berlin was referred to LuAnn by Amber De La Garza #385. Shows that correlate with this one: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Ren Millar #12 Ashley Hotham-Cox #321 Jane Dagney #351 Andrew Joseph #39 Jenny Madden #332 Links: Amanda's website: Amanda Berlin Amanda's podcast: Amanda Berlin Find Amanda on Facebook: Amanda Berlin Coaching Follow Amanda on Twitter: Amanda Berlin Valerie Fund Designer Showhouse April 23- May 19, 2019 Previous guests participating in the showhouse: Gail Davis Tina Ramchandani Blanche Garcia Marina Umali WindowWorks is supporting several designers in the Valerie Fund Showhouse by providing window treatments for their rooms. Kips Bay Showhouse May 2- May 30, 2019 Previous guest participating in Kips Bay: Corey Damen Jenkins Links to LuAnn's books: Book 1: Luann Nigara Book 2: Luann Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted to introduce you to Amanda Berlin today. Amanda is a communications consultant specifically for entrepreneurs. She teaches visibility strategy, to help people to be seen and appreciated for their uniqueness. She tells us that what she does daily, in her PR niche, is much the same as every one of us, as entrepreneurs, has to do when marketing our businesses. It's about creating a story around a business or a product that really connects it with an audience. On the show today, she and LuAnn talk about the kinds of pitches that designers need to write, the types of media that are the right fit for designers, and how to create relationships with writers and reporters to get yourself and your projects featured more easily and more often. Tune in today, to find out how to be seen and appreciated!

Amanda studied journalism at George Washington University. She interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and spent a decade writing media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. The pitches Amanda wrote resulted in appearances on almost every level of local television outlet in the country and on every national cable and network morning show at one time or another. Amanda has been featured on Carol Cox's Speaking Your Brand and she also has a podcast, The Empowered Publicity Podcast. Listen in today, to hear what Amanda has to share!

Show highlights:

  • Amanda has a really awesome 'about me' page.
  • Starting with goals.
  • Thinking about goals when considering media and visibility.
  • Amanda explains what a PR opportunity looks like.
  • Working out what's most important.
  • Unearthing the evergreen and newsworthy opportunities.
  • The two kinds of pitches that every designer needs to write.
  • Why you need to be really specific about what you have to teach.
  • Different pitches for different kinds of media.
  • Looking at mainstream consumer media.
  • Twitter is an excellent source of information about the media.
  • The Profile Pitch. To get you deeper in with your niche audience.
  • Telling your own story.
  • Why you need to be willing to own your story.
  • Going back to who you were before you became who you are.
  • Pitching for podcasts.
  • Making it as easy as possible for media to say 'yes'.
  • The services that Amanda offers. Go to her website Amanda Berlin

Bio:

I’m a New Yorker by way of New Jersey with stints in Washington, DC and Madrid, Spain.

I’m told my Jersey often shows through, whatever that means. I’m a mama of an only. I’m obsessed with my family as well as finding the exact right word to complete my thought in every conversation (it can get annoying). And peanut butter. I’m also obsessed with peanut butter.

I was born to make sure we are all heard and seen and appreciated for our unique genius.

I about died when I got a poem published in my high school literary magazine.

I studied journalism at The George Washington University, interned at CNN, wrote for a local paper, and then came back to New York City.

For a decade, I wrote media pitches for companies like Disney, Dove, Brawny, Baskin Robbins, Colgate, and Campbell’s. Clients would come to me with a spokesperson and some message points and I’d package it up and create a story that would get pitched to news outlets across the country. The pitches I wrote resulted in appearances on nearly every local television outlet in the country and every national cable and network morning show at one time or another.

My day-to-day in this niche of PR is exactly what every last entrepreneur is tasked with doing when marketing their business. Take a spokesperson (themselves) and a message (their business or product) and create a story that connects with an audience.

Amanda Berlin was referred to LuAnn by Amber De La Garza #385.

Shows that correlate with this one:

Amy Flurry #108 and #323

Ren Millar #12

Ashley Hotham-Cox #321

Jane Dagney #351

Andrew Joseph #39

Jenny Madden #332

Links:

Amanda's website: Amanda Berlin

Amanda's podcast: Amanda Berlin

Find Amanda on Facebook: Amanda Berlin Coaching

Follow Amanda on Twitter: Amanda Berlin

Valerie Fund Designer Showhouse April 23- May 19, 2019

Previous guests participating in the showhouse:

Gail Davis

Tina Ramchandani

Blanche Garcia

Marina Umali

WindowWorks is supporting several designers in the Valerie Fund Showhouse by providing window treatments for their rooms.

Kips Bay Showhouse May 2- May 30, 2019

Previous guest participating in Kips Bay:

Corey Damen Jenkins

Links to LuAnn's books:

Book 1: Luann Nigara

Book 2: Luann Nigara

]]> 4359 no 419: Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/419-tobi-fairley-say-no-to-busy-and-yes-to-health-wealth-and-joy Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have the one and only Tobi Fairley join us today! Tobi is a progressive-thinking entrepreneur, known for her interior design and she is focused on helping her clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives through her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm. Tobi has a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO's, and creatives. She also has a podcast, called The Design You Podcast, which was launched in April 2018. (LuAnn was her guest on episode #37). Today, Tobi talks to LuAnn about tuning in to what you really like to do and how you really want your business to be, making more money, and getting to grips with digital services in the ever-changing online world. Tune in for more! Tobi has been a trusted coach for interior designers and creatives, through her live events, business courses, and online programs for over ten years. More than ten years ago, when Tobi launched her blog, she was at the forefront of the design blog movement. Her blog is currently read in more than 125 countries across the globe. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Her award-winning interior design, product design, and ideas have been featured on television and in worldwide publications including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. Listen in today, to find out from Tobi how to create a business that is right for you. Show highlights: Tobi really enjoys learning about personal development and self-help and melding that with interior design. The blessing of growing up with unconditional support. The kind of support that Tobi really loves giving to others. Tobi discusses her philosophy on the use of digital tools for interior designers. Why digital doesn't have to be associated with poor quality. Tobi's take on creating revenue streams. There are so many ways for designers to make really good money and still give value to the consumer. Thinking creatively to create different models to suit different customers. The beauty of creating a design business that is accessible online. Why it gets easier to make money in other ways. Creating different models to solve different problems for clients. A practical strategy for design professionals looking to tap different markets. How designers are creating their own competition. Tobi's suggestion for maximizing your profits with what you already have. Knowing what you can and cannot do successfully on the phone. Using the right language to assist clients with digital products and services. The industry is changing, so you need to figure out how to change and grow with it. You get to decide the services that your business provides. Tuning in to what you like doing, and how you really want your business to be. The importance of being profitable. Thinking outside the box. Bio: Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.” Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO’s and creatives. Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them. Tobi was on the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs. Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business and home. For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018. Links: LuAnn's Book: A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts Kay Whitaker is a Co-Author in the book and her episodes on digital marketing are: #259, #274 Previous shows mentioned: Rachel Cannon #306 and #409 Tobi's website and social media: Tobi Fairley Facebook: Tobi Fairley Interior Design Instagram: Tobi Fairley/ Twitter: Tobi Fairley Youtube Pinterest Tue, 09 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Tobi Fairley- Say No to Busy and Yes to Health, Wealth and Joy full 419 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have the one and only Tobi Fairley join us today! Tobi is a progressive-thinking entrepreneur, known for her interior design and she is focused on helping her clients design their homes, their... Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have the one and only Tobi Fairley join us today! Tobi is a progressive-thinking entrepreneur, known for her interior design and she is focused on helping her clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives through her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm. Tobi has a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO's, and creatives. She also has a podcast, called The Design You Podcast, which was launched in April 2018. (LuAnn was her guest on episode #37). Today, Tobi talks to LuAnn about tuning in to what you really like to do and how you really want your business to be, making more money, and getting to grips with digital services in the ever-changing online world. Tune in for more! Tobi has been a trusted coach for interior designers and creatives, through her live events, business courses, and online programs for over ten years. More than ten years ago, when Tobi launched her blog, she was at the forefront of the design blog movement. Her blog is currently read in more than 125 countries across the globe. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Her award-winning interior design, product design, and ideas have been featured on television and in worldwide publications including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. Listen in today, to find out from Tobi how to create a business that is right for you. Show highlights: Tobi really enjoys learning about personal development and self-help and melding that with interior design. The blessing of growing up with unconditional support. The kind of support that Tobi really loves giving to others. Tobi discusses her philosophy on the use of digital tools for interior designers. Why digital doesn't have to be associated with poor quality. Tobi's take on creating revenue streams. There are so many ways for designers to make really good money and still give value to the consumer. Thinking creatively to create different models to suit different customers. The beauty of creating a design business that is accessible online. Why it gets easier to make money in other ways. Creating different models to solve different problems for clients. A practical strategy for design professionals looking to tap different markets. How designers are creating their own competition. Tobi's suggestion for maximizing your profits with what you already have. Knowing what you can and cannot do successfully on the phone. Using the right language to assist clients with digital products and services. The industry is changing, so you need to figure out how to change and grow with it. You get to decide the services that your business provides. Tuning in to what you like doing, and how you really want your business to be. The importance of being profitable. Thinking outside the box. Bio: Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.” Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO’s and creatives. Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them. Tobi was on the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs. Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business and home. For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018. Links: LuAnn's Book: A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts Kay Whitaker is a Co-Author in the book and her episodes on digital marketing are: #259, #274 Previous shows mentioned: Rachel Cannon #306 and #409 Tobi's website and social media: Tobi Fairley Facebook: Tobi Fairley Interior Design Instagram: Tobi Fairley/ Twitter: Tobi Fairley Youtube Pinterest Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have the one and only Tobi Fairley join us today! Tobi is a progressive-thinking entrepreneur, known for her interior design and she is focused on helping her clients design their homes, their businesses, and their lives through her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm. Tobi has a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO's, and creatives. She also has a podcast, called The Design You Podcast, which was launched in April 2018. (LuAnn was her guest on episode #37). Today, Tobi talks to LuAnn about tuning in to what you really like to do and how you really want your business to be, making more money, and getting to grips with digital services in the ever-changing online world. Tune in for more!

Tobi has been a trusted coach for interior designers and creatives, through her live events, business courses, and online programs for over ten years. More than ten years ago, when Tobi launched her blog, she was at the forefront of the design blog movement. Her blog is currently read in more than 125 countries across the globe. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal. Her award-winning interior design, product design, and ideas have been featured on television and in worldwide publications including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. Listen in today, to find out from Tobi how to create a business that is right for you.

Show highlights:

  • Tobi really enjoys learning about personal development and self-help and melding that with interior design.
  • The blessing of growing up with unconditional support.
  • The kind of support that Tobi really loves giving to others.
  • Tobi discusses her philosophy on the use of digital tools for interior designers.
  • Why digital doesn't have to be associated with poor quality.
  • Tobi's take on creating revenue streams.
  • There are so many ways for designers to make really good money and still give value to the consumer.
  • Thinking creatively to create different models to suit different customers.
  • The beauty of creating a design business that is accessible online.
  • Why it gets easier to make money in other ways.
  • Creating different models to solve different problems for clients.
  • A practical strategy for design professionals looking to tap different markets.
  • How designers are creating their own competition.
  • Tobi's suggestion for maximizing your profits with what you already have.
  • Knowing what you can and cannot do successfully on the phone.
  • Using the right language to assist clients with digital products and services.
  • The industry is changing, so you need to figure out how to change and grow with it.
  • You get to decide the services that your business provides.
  • Tuning in to what you like doing, and how you really want your business to be.
  • The importance of being profitable.
  • Thinking outside the box.

Bio:

Traditional Home predicts “Tobi will be like Cher or Oprah, one of those women for whom one name says it all.”

Tobi Fairley is known for her bold use of color in interior design, but she’s also one of the nation’s most progressive-thinking entrepreneurs. Tobi is passionate about her full-service interior design company and her consulting firm which are focused on helping clients design their homes, their businesses and their lives, with a special interest in promoting wellness and balance for entrepreneurs, CEO’s and creatives.

Tobi established her firm more than 19 years ago and her projects have spanned the nation and beyond. Her award-winning interior design, product design and ideas have been featured on television and in publications worldwide including House Beautiful, Veranda, Traditional Home, Huffington Post, HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, Coastal Living, Southern Cottages, Creative Live, the Chicago Tribune, and MSNBC. In 2017, Tobi was a columnist for Traditional Home magazine with a feature in each issue chronicling her own home renovation and reveal.

Tobi’s design goal is to create interiors that will assist her clients in reaching their big, personal, and entrepreneurial dreams, while supporting their health and wellness. She designs functional homes and beautiful environments that will foster personal growth, balance, and connection for all who use them.

Tobi was on the forefront of the design blog movement when she launched her blog over 10 years ago, and it’s currently read in more than 125 countries worldwide. She has been a trusted coach for over 10 years for interior designers and creatives through her live events, design and business courses, and online programs.

Among Tobi’s latest ventures is Design You, a monthly coaching program, where interior designers and creatives can get all of Tobi’s best course content, along with live coaching from Tobi in the areas of business, health and wellness, and mindset for a monthly or yearly subscription. In April 2018 Tobi launched her new podcast, The Design You Podcast, where she helps Interior Designers and Creatives say no to busy and say yes to more health, wealth and joy. In her podcast episodes, Tobi shares best business practices, her personal journey as a working mom and her beliefs about personal development for creating your best life, business and home.

For the last 3 years, Tobi has had great success in product design with her licensed collections from Soicher Marin (art), Duralee (fabrics), CR Laine (upholstered furniture), Woodbridge Furniture (case goods and outdoor furniture), New River Artisans (rugs), and recently signed a license with C2 Paint which will debut late 2018.

Links:

LuAnn's Book:

A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts

Kay Whitaker is a Co-Author in the book and her episodes on digital marketing are: #259, #274

Previous shows mentioned:

Rachel Cannon #306 and #409

Tobi's website and social media:

Tobi Fairley

Facebook: Tobi Fairley Interior Design

Instagram: Tobi Fairley/

Twitter: Tobi Fairley

Youtube

Pinterest

]]> 4806 no 418: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Durnez- Hiring an Interior Design VA Professional http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/418-power-talk-friday-sarah-durnez-hiring-an-interior-design-va-professional Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is about working with a professional Virtual Assistant, who works specifically in the field of interior design. Sarah Durnez is the founder of Loft Design in Walla Walla Washington, and she joins us today. For Sarah, it really doesn't matter where she is, or where you are for that matter because she works remotely to help designers, like you, with their design businesses. She's worked with designers all over the US and she's only ever met one of them once, in the flesh. Sarah's specialty is providing designers with drawings and renderings. Most of her clients have been with her since she started her business, which really says a lot about Sarah and her work, right? Listen in today, to find out more about Sarah and the high-quality Virtual Design Assistant services that she gives her clients. Sarah graduated from MIU with a BFA in Interior Design. At school, she gravitated to honing her rendering skills and creating the best presentations. Competing to showcase design boards during Miami's Art Basil each year, really drove home the importance that the way that a project is presented is just as important as the design of the project. Sarah has been working remotely with designers for over six years, providing them with detailed construction documents, renderings, and presentation materials to sell their designs. With Sarah handling the technical side of a project, her designers have more time to focus on other aspects of design, grow their business, and be out of the office to spend more time with their families. Tune in for more! Show highlights: We all strive to be organized in the way we run our business. Sarah started out by just winging it. Sarah explains how she keeps her clients on their toes with their projects. The kind of service and support that Sarah provides for her clients. The quality of Sarah's SketchUp renderings is really remarkable. Sarah discusses the information she requires from designers in order to provide them with high-quality renderings. The kind of responsibility that Sarah takes on. Why some people call Sarah 'The killer of dreams'. How designers really benefit from Sarah's expertise. Sarah will always provide a solution for every issue that she points out. The way that small design firms really benefit from hiring Sarah. Listen to your tradespeople. They really know what they are talking about. Use your own talents for what you're really good at and hiring out for the rest. The excitement that comes with the renderings. When and why designers lean towards watercolor drawings. Taking the time to work through the specific process of your trade. About Sarah's training for designers on SketchUp and Podium. The design industry is a very personal one and hiring a Virtual Assistant is really like having someone on your side. Links: Press Kit Password: tacos Loft Design Website: Loft Design Instagram: SarahatLoftDesign Facebook: SarahatLoftDesign Pinterest: SarahatLoftDesign Mydoma Studio Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Darla Powell #330 Elizabeth Scruggs #305 Revelwoods #329 Mydoma Studio #91 and #171 Madeleine MacRae #283 and #315 Episodes that go with this one: On VA’s #375 Bonnie Fahy #149 My Design Assistant #346 Do Not Let Us Design For You Fri, 05 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Sarah Durnez- Hiring an Interior Design VA Professional full 418 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is about working with a professional Virtual Assistant, who works specifically in the field of interior design. Sarah Durnez is the founder of Loft Design in Walla Walla Washington, and she joins us today.... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is about working with a professional Virtual Assistant, who works specifically in the field of interior design. Sarah Durnez is the founder of Loft Design in Walla Walla Washington, and she joins us today. For Sarah, it really doesn't matter where she is, or where you are for that matter because she works remotely to help designers, like you, with their design businesses. She's worked with designers all over the US and she's only ever met one of them once, in the flesh. Sarah's specialty is providing designers with drawings and renderings. Most of her clients have been with her since she started her business, which really says a lot about Sarah and her work, right? Listen in today, to find out more about Sarah and the high-quality Virtual Design Assistant services that she gives her clients. Sarah graduated from MIU with a BFA in Interior Design. At school, she gravitated to honing her rendering skills and creating the best presentations. Competing to showcase design boards during Miami's Art Basil each year, really drove home the importance that the way that a project is presented is just as important as the design of the project. Sarah has been working remotely with designers for over six years, providing them with detailed construction documents, renderings, and presentation materials to sell their designs. With Sarah handling the technical side of a project, her designers have more time to focus on other aspects of design, grow their business, and be out of the office to spend more time with their families. Tune in for more! Show highlights: We all strive to be organized in the way we run our business. Sarah started out by just winging it. Sarah explains how she keeps her clients on their toes with their projects. The kind of service and support that Sarah provides for her clients. The quality of Sarah's SketchUp renderings is really remarkable. Sarah discusses the information she requires from designers in order to provide them with high-quality renderings. The kind of responsibility that Sarah takes on. Why some people call Sarah 'The killer of dreams'. How designers really benefit from Sarah's expertise. Sarah will always provide a solution for every issue that she points out. The way that small design firms really benefit from hiring Sarah. Listen to your tradespeople. They really know what they are talking about. Use your own talents for what you're really good at and hiring out for the rest. The excitement that comes with the renderings. When and why designers lean towards watercolor drawings. Taking the time to work through the specific process of your trade. About Sarah's training for designers on SketchUp and Podium. The design industry is a very personal one and hiring a Virtual Assistant is really like having someone on your side. Links: Press Kit Password: tacos Loft Design Website: Loft Design Instagram: SarahatLoftDesign Facebook: SarahatLoftDesign Pinterest: SarahatLoftDesign Mydoma Studio Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Darla Powell #330 Elizabeth Scruggs #305 Revelwoods #329 Mydoma Studio #91 and #171 Madeleine MacRae #283 and #315 Episodes that go with this one: On VA’s #375 Bonnie Fahy #149 My Design Assistant #346 Do Not Let Us Design For You Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is about working with a professional Virtual Assistant, who works specifically in the field of interior design. Sarah Durnez is the founder of Loft Design in Walla Walla Washington, and she joins us today. For Sarah, it really doesn't matter where she is, or where you are for that matter because she works remotely to help designers, like you, with their design businesses. She's worked with designers all over the US and she's only ever met one of them once, in the flesh. Sarah's specialty is providing designers with drawings and renderings. Most of her clients have been with her since she started her business, which really says a lot about Sarah and her work, right? Listen in today, to find out more about Sarah and the high-quality Virtual Design Assistant services that she gives her clients.

Sarah graduated from MIU with a BFA in Interior Design. At school, she gravitated to honing her rendering skills and creating the best presentations. Competing to showcase design boards during Miami's Art Basil each year, really drove home the importance that the way that a project is presented is just as important as the design of the project. Sarah has been working remotely with designers for over six years, providing them with detailed construction documents, renderings, and presentation materials to sell their designs. With Sarah handling the technical side of a project, her designers have more time to focus on other aspects of design, grow their business, and be out of the office to spend more time with their families. Tune in for more!

Show highlights:

  • We all strive to be organized in the way we run our business.
  • Sarah started out by just winging it.
  • Sarah explains how she keeps her clients on their toes with their projects.
  • The kind of service and support that Sarah provides for her clients.
  • The quality of Sarah's SketchUp renderings is really remarkable.
  • Sarah discusses the information she requires from designers in order to provide them with high-quality renderings.
  • The kind of responsibility that Sarah takes on.
  • Why some people call Sarah 'The killer of dreams'.
  • How designers really benefit from Sarah's expertise.
  • Sarah will always provide a solution for every issue that she points out.
  • The way that small design firms really benefit from hiring Sarah.
  • Listen to your tradespeople. They really know what they are talking about.
  • Use your own talents for what you're really good at and hiring out for the rest.
  • The excitement that comes with the renderings.
  • When and why designers lean towards watercolor drawings.
  • Taking the time to work through the specific process of your trade.
  • About Sarah's training for designers on SketchUp and Podium.
  • The design industry is a very personal one and hiring a Virtual Assistant is really like having someone on your side.

Links:

Press Kit

Password: tacos

Loft Design

Website: Loft Design

Instagram: SarahatLoftDesign

Facebook: SarahatLoftDesign

Pinterest: SarahatLoftDesign

Mydoma Studio

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Darla Powell #330

Elizabeth Scruggs #305

Revelwoods #329

Mydoma Studio #91 and #171

Madeleine MacRae #283 and #315

Episodes that go with this one:

On VA’s

#375 Bonnie Fahy

#149 My Design Assistant

#346 Do Not Let Us Design For You

]]> 3918 no 417: Design Inkredible, Don Ricardo Massenburg, Social Media and Mentoring http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/417-design-inkredible-don-ricardo-massenberg-social-media-and-mentoring Welcome! Today we have Mr. Inkredible on the show with us. Don Ricardo Massenburg, Jr, known for his use of bright and bold patterns and colors in home decor, is the principal of Design Inkredible in Durham, North Carolina. Don believes that interior design should be and could be attainable by everyone, even though it's considered a luxury service. In today's episode, he talks to us about his design business and about his work in early childhood education. He also explains how he runs his design firm in conjunction with his full-time position in the education field. Listen in to find out more. For a long time, it has been Don's dream to do something that he loves so much that it doesn't feel like he's working. Interior design has been his answer to this. Don's firm has grown so fast and has become so successful that it's hard to believe that technically, it's his side-hustle. He really understands what it takes to maintain a successful interior design business, and he's always adding to his education in interior design. Tune in to find out about Don and how his love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative really fuels his passion for interior design. Show highlights: How Don started his design firm while doing his career in education. How he runs his design business around his full-time job. Don is so passionate about interior design that it doesn't feel like work. How he uses social media to get clients. Posting on social media at peak times for maximum engagement. Don's strategies for attracting followers on social media. Joining Instagram pods, or groups are still effective as a strategy for marketing a business. Don's use of bold and bright colors and patterns. The importance of engaging, on social media. A lot of Don's current clientele comes from luxury new construction. Don's focus is on textiles. Maintaining a following on social media really takes a lot of work. The importance of your first six photos on Instagram. The value of hiring a really good photographer. Converting Instagram admirers into clients. Weeding out the tire-kickers. How to obtain the help of a mentor. How MyDoma Studio has really changed Don's life. Don used to create his own custom designs. Don's Bio: Recognized for his use of bright, bold patterns and colors in home décor, Don Ricardo Massenburg Jr. seeks to show that although interior design is considered a luxury service, it can be attainable to everyone. His love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative fuels his passion for interior design.  It has been a lasting dream of Ricardo’s to do something that he loves and enjoys so much that it doesn’t feel like he’s working, and Ricardo believes that he has experienced that dream with interior design. Ricardo received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from North Carolina Central University and started his first interior design venture while he served as a teacher. Some of his earliest and favorite projects were children’s spaces where he enjoyed pulling bright, vibrant colors together, along with fun patterns. Ricardo continues to work in the field of education by day and acknowledges the value of the transferable skills gained through his experiences. The growth of DESiGN iNKREDiBLE LLC has been so exciting and through his, work Ricardo has developed other gifts and talents such as sewing, upholstery, and creating abstract art. Ricardo recognizes that although style and a good design eye are important, it takes much more to maintain a successful interior design business and he is currently continuing education in interior design. For more episodes on how to grow your Instagram following: #184 Amber Lewis #110 Mark McDonough #203 and #330 Darla Powell / Wingnut Social For more episodes on mentorship: #267 Rasheeda Gray #291 Cheryl Luckett #296 Ruthie Staalsen #272 Laura Thurman #91 and #177 Sarah Daniele- Mydoma Studio Links: Design Inkredible Instagram: Design Inkredible Facebook: Design Inkredible Join LuAnn at High Point Market Facebook Groups: Mark McDonough: Interior Design Marketing Darla Powell: The Wingnut Social Media Lab LuAnn: LuAnn Nigara and Friends Tue, 02 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Design Inkredible, Don Ricardo Massenburg, Social Media and Mentoring full 417 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Mr. Inkredible on the show with us. Don Ricardo Massenburg, Jr, known for his use of bright and bold patterns and colors in home decor, is the principal of Design Inkredible in Durham, North Carolina. Don believes that interior... Welcome! Today we have Mr. Inkredible on the show with us. Don Ricardo Massenburg, Jr, known for his use of bright and bold patterns and colors in home decor, is the principal of Design Inkredible in Durham, North Carolina. Don believes that interior design should be and could be attainable by everyone, even though it's considered a luxury service. In today's episode, he talks to us about his design business and about his work in early childhood education. He also explains how he runs his design firm in conjunction with his full-time position in the education field. Listen in to find out more. For a long time, it has been Don's dream to do something that he loves so much that it doesn't feel like he's working. Interior design has been his answer to this. Don's firm has grown so fast and has become so successful that it's hard to believe that technically, it's his side-hustle. He really understands what it takes to maintain a successful interior design business, and he's always adding to his education in interior design. Tune in to find out about Don and how his love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative really fuels his passion for interior design. Show highlights: How Don started his design firm while doing his career in education. How he runs his design business around his full-time job. Don is so passionate about interior design that it doesn't feel like work. How he uses social media to get clients. Posting on social media at peak times for maximum engagement. Don's strategies for attracting followers on social media. Joining Instagram pods, or groups are still effective as a strategy for marketing a business. Don's use of bold and bright colors and patterns. The importance of engaging, on social media. A lot of Don's current clientele comes from luxury new construction. Don's focus is on textiles. Maintaining a following on social media really takes a lot of work. The importance of your first six photos on Instagram. The value of hiring a really good photographer. Converting Instagram admirers into clients. Weeding out the tire-kickers. How to obtain the help of a mentor. How MyDoma Studio has really changed Don's life. Don used to create his own custom designs. Don's Bio: Recognized for his use of bright, bold patterns and colors in home décor, Don Ricardo Massenburg Jr. seeks to show that although interior design is considered a luxury service, it can be attainable to everyone. His love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative fuels his passion for interior design.  It has been a lasting dream of Ricardo’s to do something that he loves and enjoys so much that it doesn’t feel like he’s working, and Ricardo believes that he has experienced that dream with interior design. Ricardo received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from North Carolina Central University and started his first interior design venture while he served as a teacher. Some of his earliest and favorite projects were children’s spaces where he enjoyed pulling bright, vibrant colors together, along with fun patterns. Ricardo continues to work in the field of education by day and acknowledges the value of the transferable skills gained through his experiences. The growth of DESiGN iNKREDiBLE LLC has been so exciting and through his, work Ricardo has developed other gifts and talents such as sewing, upholstery, and creating abstract art. Ricardo recognizes that although style and a good design eye are important, it takes much more to maintain a successful interior design business and he is currently continuing education in interior design. For more episodes on how to grow your Instagram following: #184 Amber Lewis #110 Mark McDonough #203 and #330 Darla Powell / Wingnut Social For more episodes on mentorship: #267 Rasheeda Gray #291 Cheryl Luckett #296 Ruthie Staalsen #272 Laura Thurman #91 and #177 Sarah Daniele- Mydoma Studio Links: Design Inkredible Instagram: Design Inkredible Facebook: Design Inkredible Join LuAnn at High Point Market Facebook Groups: Mark McDonough: Interior Design Marketing Darla Powell: The Wingnut Social Media Lab LuAnn: LuAnn Nigara and Friends Welcome! Today we have Mr. Inkredible on the show with us. Don Ricardo Massenburg, Jr, known for his use of bright and bold patterns and colors in home decor, is the principal of Design Inkredible in Durham, North Carolina. Don believes that interior design should be and could be attainable by everyone, even though it's considered a luxury service. In today's episode, he talks to us about his design business and about his work in early childhood education. He also explains how he runs his design firm in conjunction with his full-time position in the education field. Listen in to find out more.

For a long time, it has been Don's dream to do something that he loves so much that it doesn't feel like he's working. Interior design has been his answer to this. Don's firm has grown so fast and has become so successful that it's hard to believe that technically, it's his side-hustle. He really understands what it takes to maintain a successful interior design business, and he's always adding to his education in interior design. Tune in to find out about Don and how his love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative really fuels his passion for interior design.

Show highlights:

  • How Don started his design firm while doing his career in education.
  • How he runs his design business around his full-time job.
  • Don is so passionate about interior design that it doesn't feel like work.
  • How he uses social media to get clients.
  • Posting on social media at peak times for maximum engagement.
  • Don's strategies for attracting followers on social media.
  • Joining Instagram pods, or groups are still effective as a strategy for marketing a business.
  • Don's use of bold and bright colors and patterns.
  • The importance of engaging, on social media.
  • A lot of Don's current clientele comes from luxury new construction.
  • Don's focus is on textiles.
  • Maintaining a following on social media really takes a lot of work.
  • The importance of your first six photos on Instagram.
  • The value of hiring a really good photographer.
  • Converting Instagram admirers into clients.
  • Weeding out the tire-kickers.
  • How to obtain the help of a mentor.
  • How MyDoma Studio has really changed Don's life.
  • Don used to create his own custom designs.

Don's Bio:

Recognized for his use of bright, bold patterns and colors in home décor, Don Ricardo Massenburg Jr. seeks to show that although interior design is considered a luxury service, it can be attainable to everyone. His love for art, music, furniture, and anything bold and creative fuels his passion for interior design.  It has been a lasting dream of Ricardo’s to do something that he loves and enjoys so much that it doesn’t feel like he’s working, and Ricardo believes that he has experienced that dream with interior design.

Ricardo received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from North Carolina Central University and started his first interior design venture while he served as a teacher. Some of his earliest and favorite projects were children’s spaces where he enjoyed pulling bright, vibrant colors together, along with fun patterns. Ricardo continues to work in the field of education by day and acknowledges the value of the transferable skills gained through his experiences.

The growth of DESiGN iNKREDiBLE LLC has been so exciting and through his, work Ricardo has developed other gifts and talents such as sewing, upholstery, and creating abstract art. Ricardo recognizes that although style and a good design eye are important, it takes much more to maintain a successful interior design business and he is currently continuing education in interior design.

For more episodes on how to grow your Instagram following:

#184 Amber Lewis

#110 Mark McDonough

#203 and #330 Darla Powell / Wingnut Social

For more episodes on mentorship:

#267 Rasheeda Gray

#291 Cheryl Luckett

#296 Ruthie Staalsen

#272 Laura Thurman

#91 and #177 Sarah Daniele- Mydoma Studio

Links:

Design Inkredible

Instagram: Design Inkredible

Facebook: Design Inkredible

Join LuAnn at High Point Market

Facebook Groups:

Mark McDonough:

Interior Design Marketing

Darla Powell:

The Wingnut Social Media Lab

LuAnn:

LuAnn Nigara and Friends

]]> 3781 no 416: PowerTalk Friday: Susana Yee: How to Leverage Influencer Marketing http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/416-powertalk-friday-susana-yee-how-to-leverage-influencer-marketing Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is a conversation with the founder of Digital Everything, Susana Yee. Susana is a marketing expert in social media and influencer marketing who has cultivated major engagement for companies through her innovative work, such as her Guess “color me inspired” campaign. Within her company, Susana helps individuals with their own social media campaigns, twitter and facebook ad management, influencer marketing, rebranding, content creation, retargeting campaigns, and so much more. Digital Media is a company that helps others build and market their own personal brands in order to reach out and work with top-notch influencers, or become an influencer themselves. This episode includes techniques and strategies that will help you create and promote yourself on any social media platform. Tune into today's episode of A Well-Designed Business to learn more about Digital Everything and how its program can help you build your social media empire. Show Highlights: Reaching out and working with influencers Making sure your brand is cohesive and looks promotable Tagging and promoting other brands that are relevant to you Strategies to grow your business through social media How affiliate and brand deals work Being selective about what you advertise Redirecting people to other platforms to avoid exposing secrets Building an email list Being easily contactable and accessible Posting consistently and strategically Putting a value on your services Using people’s needs to your benefit Paying people fairly for their expertise Playing the role of the brand and the influencer A roadmap for how to target and work with influencers Creating campaigns that include and reach a big audience Apps that easily regulate marketing Establishing your personal niche Properly labeling and hashtagging posts About Digital Everything: Digital Everything is a Los Angeles based digital marketing firm that works with brands directly and teaches them how to build and make the most out of relationships with influencers. Founded over 20 years ago Services include: social media campaign management, influencer marketing, twitter and facebook ads management, social media strategy, content creation, retargeting campaigns Links: Sign Up for Susana's Course:  The Influencer Marketing Roadmap  Web and social: Digital Everything Facebook: Digital Everything Twitter: Shopping And Info Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee of Studio McGee #236  Shea and Syd McGee #270 Natalie Hurst # 172 Fri, 29 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 PowerTalk Friday: Susana Yee: How to Leverage Influencer Marketing full 416 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is a conversation with the founder of Digital Everything, Susana Yee. Susana is a marketing expert in social media and influencer marketing who has cultivated major engagement for... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is a conversation with the founder of Digital Everything, Susana Yee. Susana is a marketing expert in social media and influencer marketing who has cultivated major engagement for companies through her innovative work, such as her Guess “color me inspired” campaign. Within her company, Susana helps individuals with their own social media campaigns, twitter and facebook ad management, influencer marketing, rebranding, content creation, retargeting campaigns, and so much more. Digital Media is a company that helps others build and market their own personal brands in order to reach out and work with top-notch influencers, or become an influencer themselves. This episode includes techniques and strategies that will help you create and promote yourself on any social media platform. Tune into today's episode of A Well-Designed Business to learn more about Digital Everything and how its program can help you build your social media empire. Show Highlights: Reaching out and working with influencers Making sure your brand is cohesive and looks promotable Tagging and promoting other brands that are relevant to you Strategies to grow your business through social media How affiliate and brand deals work Being selective about what you advertise Redirecting people to other platforms to avoid exposing secrets Building an email list Being easily contactable and accessible Posting consistently and strategically Putting a value on your services Using people’s needs to your benefit Paying people fairly for their expertise Playing the role of the brand and the influencer A roadmap for how to target and work with influencers Creating campaigns that include and reach a big audience Apps that easily regulate marketing Establishing your personal niche Properly labeling and hashtagging posts About Digital Everything: Digital Everything is a Los Angeles based digital marketing firm that works with brands directly and teaches them how to build and make the most out of relationships with influencers. Founded over 20 years ago Services include: social media campaign management, influencer marketing, twitter and facebook ads management, social media strategy, content creation, retargeting campaigns Links: Sign Up for Susana's Course:  The Influencer Marketing Roadmap  Web and social: Digital Everything Facebook: Digital Everything Twitter: Shopping And Info Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee of Studio McGee #236  Shea and Syd McGee #270 Natalie Hurst # 172 Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is a conversation with the founder of Digital Everything, Susana Yee. Susana is a marketing expert in social media and influencer marketing who has cultivated major engagement for companies through her innovative work, such as her Guess “color me inspired” campaign. Within her company, Susana helps individuals with their own social media campaigns, twitter and facebook ad management, influencer marketing, rebranding, content creation, retargeting campaigns, and so much more.

Digital Media is a company that helps others build and market their own personal brands in order to reach out and work with top-notch influencers, or become an influencer themselves. This episode includes techniques and strategies that will help you create and promote yourself on any social media platform. Tune into today's episode of A Well-Designed Business to learn more about Digital Everything and how its program can help you build your social media empire.

Show Highlights:

  • Reaching out and working with influencers
  • Making sure your brand is cohesive and looks promotable
  • Tagging and promoting other brands that are relevant to you
  • Strategies to grow your business through social media
  • How affiliate and brand deals work
  • Being selective about what you advertise
  • Redirecting people to other platforms to avoid exposing secrets
  • Building an email list
  • Being easily contactable and accessible
  • Posting consistently and strategically
  • Putting a value on your services
  • Using people’s needs to your benefit
  • Paying people fairly for their expertise
  • Playing the role of the brand and the influencer
  • A roadmap for how to target and work with influencers
  • Creating campaigns that include and reach a big audience
  • Apps that easily regulate marketing
  • Establishing your personal niche
  • Properly labeling and hashtagging posts

About Digital Everything:

Digital Everything is a Los Angeles based digital marketing firm that works with brands directly and teaches them how to build and make the most out of relationships with influencers.

  • Founded over 20 years ago
  • Services include: social media campaign management, influencer marketing, twitter and facebook ads management, social media strategy, content creation, retargeting campaigns

Links:

Sign Up for Susana's Course:  The Influencer Marketing Roadmap 

Web and social:

Digital Everything

Facebook: Digital Everything

Twitter: Shopping And Info

Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee of Studio McGee #236  Shea and Syd McGee #270 Natalie Hurst # 172]]> 2871 no 415: Tina Ramchandani: Creating Success in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/415-tina-ramchandani-creating-success-in-interior-design Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We have Tina Ramchandani, a really smart lady and the founder of Tina Ramchandani Creatives, with us on the show today. Tina is another interior designer who started her career by training at a well-established and well-run New York design firm and we know that it really makes a difference when young designers cut their teeth this way. Tina started her own design business in 2014 and in four short years, she has managed to establish herself as an interior designer on the rise. She was recently named one of House Beautiful Magazine's 2018 Next Way Designers and she has been featured in Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottage and Gardens, and more. Listen in today, to find out about Tina and her really successful design firm. In today's episode, Tina talks to us about her experience of working for the top-tier New York firm, Vicente Wolf and Associates, prior to opening her own design business. She discusses some of the practices that she has instituted in her firm, like her strategy for establishing monthly tasks in her business, to ensure that she's paying attention to the experience she's giving her clients. Today, Tina and LuAnn also talk about their involvement in the upcoming Designer Showhouse, Grace's House, by the Valerie Fund. LuAnn is on the committee, and Tina is one of the designers. Many of the designers selected to participate in bringing this really special home back to its former glory have been featured on this show, so we're giving all of them a special shout-out today, in appreciation for all that they are doing for our children! Tune in now to find out more! Show highlights: Window Works will be working with Tina and the other designers, doing window treatments and pillows for the Valerie Fund showhouse, Grace's House. Tina talks about her amazing experience and the confidence she gained from working for Vincente Wolf for five years. What Tina learned from working for Vincente Wolf, that she's brought to the way she runs her own firm, Tina Ramchandani Creative. The way that Vincente Wolf managed to inspire Tina's confidence. The natural way that Tina empowers her junior designer, Kay, in the same way, that she was inspired by Vincente. Learning to trust the people you have hired. How Tina knew that it was the right time for her to leave her mentor, Vincente. How interior design principals gain from giving their all to their junior designers. The systems that Tina initially took away from Vincente's firm. The way that Tina tweaked and changed some of Vincente's business systems, to work with the way she works. Tina and Kay sit down at the beginning of each year and assess the things that are not working and the things that need to change in the business. Tina discusses the goals that she and Kay set for each month. Tina and Kay meet each week to discuss what needs to be done in the business. Having outside help has really assisted Tina in running her own business. Tina has built in specific times of the month to address her business operations. The pressure that comes with being driven in business. Tina talks about the awesome Valerie Fund. All about the showhouse, Grace's House which is going to open on April 25th, 2019. There are many special events which will be happening at the opening of Grace's House. Tina talks about the colorful room that she is is designing in Grace's house. Benjamin Moore has kindly sponsored all the paint for Grace's House. Getting things to run smoothly when the pressure is on. Tina discusses the event that she is going to be doing with a women's group on the 15th of May, to raise money for the Valerie Fund. LuAnn is having a book signing for her new book, on the 30th of April, at 6 pm, at Grace's House. Tina's bio: Tina Ramchandani Creative (TRC) is a full-service design firm that creates modern, sophisticated and relaxed interiors. TRC's turn-key service makes it easy for clients to move into a completed home with minimal stress. Tina Ramchandani incorporates her vast experience and global perspective into her signature style that delivers a warm layered aesthetic, enhancing your lifestyle and inviting you to truly “live” in your bespoken space. Tina places a strong emphasis on artwork, couture pieces, and custom elements, within the client's budget. While creating a unique, livable environment for clients, Tina incorporates local artists and artisans to bring spaces to life, and showcase clients' personalities in their homes. TRC has developed a complete and individual onboarding process, which allows Tina to get to know clients and their needs in depth. Clients will share their inspirations with Tina, while also sharing details of how they live in their space, what they are looking to improve or change, as well as what they are interested in aesthetically. Tina and her team then create two complete design presentations for clients. First, the team offers a preliminary meeting, with floor plans and layouts, furniture styles, lighting pieces, fabrics, colors, and art inspirations. After honing in on the direction, TRC develops a comprehensive presentation for clients, soup to nuts. Tina and the team present every item in the space, from furniture to lighting and floor covering to window treatments. This allows clients to see the design vision in its entirety. Once approved TRC takes care of everything, so clients can sit back, relax, and watch their space come together. Tina Ramchandani developed her design expertise with several top tier, high-end residential and commercial interior design firms in Manhattan, including Frank & Marcotullio Design Associates and Vicente Wolf Associates, which led to the formation of Tina Ramchandani Creative in 2014. Ms. Ramchandani is deeply appreciative of good design and passionate about the impact social awareness can have on one’s life. Tina’s work has been nationally recognized by publications including Elle Décor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottages & Gardens, Lonny, Gotham, Cover, she was most recently named a “2018 Next Wave” designer by House Beautiful. She is also the founder of Life in Sketch, an internationally recognized interior design blog where she shares what inspires her in the world of design at large, from her daily experiences in New York to her extensive travels abroad. Press Release for Grace's House, presented by the Valerie Fund: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Valerie Fund The Valerie Fund presents Grace’s House, A Designer Showhouse Restoration of historic Plainfield mansion will benefit children in our area battling cancer and blood disorders Maplewood, N.J. January 14, 2019 – In May of 2018, nine-year-old Grace received a devastating diagnosis: she had a Germ Cell Brain Tumor. Grace’s treatment brought her to The Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Newark Beth Israel and after rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, she is recovering well. Her grateful family sought ways to give back to the organization that was taking such good care of their daughter and granddaughter. Last June, they spearheaded an extraordinary fundraising effort during The Valerie Fund’s annual 5K Run and Walk in Verona Park, Verona, NJ raising close to $32,000. Grace’s grandfather, Dan Reichard, a builder and principle of ER Development was interested in collaborating further with The Valerie Fund. He and his partners Thomas and George Allen purchased a 7,000+ square foot Colonial Revival in Plainfield, NJ restoring original elements and preparing it for featured designers to showcase their visions. Christened Grace’s House, the mansion is located in the historic Hillside Avenue district and will eventually be for sale, but in Spring 2019, the public will have the opportunity to tour approximately 20 of the house’s rooms, nooks, stairways and landings, and other spaces across three floors. Interior Design businesses selected to participate in bringing this very special home back to its former glory include: AK Design Studios, Monsey, NY ANEW Kitchen and Bath Design, Plainfield, NJ B-garcia designs, Montclair, NJ Butter and Velvet Home Designs, Denville, NJ California Closets, Fairfield, NJ CD Interiors, Manalapan Township, NJ The French Martini, Westfield, NJ Gail Davis Designs, South Orange, NJ Global Home Interior Design, Princeton, NJ Images in Design, Cranford, NJ JAB Design Group, Penn Valley, PA JMW Interiors, Millburn, NJ Liepold Design Group, Millburn, NJ Marina V. Design Studio, Ridgewood, NJ Mendham Interiors, Mendham, NJ Mimi & Hill, Westfield, NJ Samuel Robert Signature Spaces, Millburn, NJ Swati Goorha Designs, New Providence, NJ Tina Ramchandani Creative, New York “Building a Brighter Future for The Valerie Fund Kids.” Proceeds from public and private tours of the showhouse as well as ad journal sales and sponsorships will benefit The Valerie Fund’s Green Light Initiative, a $5,000,000 Capital Campaign. This initiative is the most ambitious chapter in The Valerie Fund’s history to date, poised to extend “next generation care” to thousands of children fighting life-threatening diseases. The Valerie Fund is proud to recognize Design NJ as a media sponsor, Holby Valve, Coughlin Duffy LLP, Stephen and Tina Squeri as sponsors and Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings as a sponsor and a designer resource. Generous in-kind sponsors already committed to the project include Benjamin Moore, Dente Trading Classic & Luxury Stone, Swarovski and Window Works. At The Valerie Fund each year, Grace and 6,000 other precious children benefit immeasurably by receiving their medical treatment close to home in a child-centered environment. Individualized support from an entire psychosocial team – Integrative and Palliative Care Specialists, Psychologists, Social workers, Child Life specialists, and Educational liaisons -- makes sure their quality of life is the best it can possibly be without regard to insurance reimbursements. And Grace’s favorite – Camp Happy Times, is a free one-week overnight summer camp for children with cancer. To see the amazing house transformation, Grace’s House will be open to the public every Thursday through Sunday beginning Thursday, April 25th through Sunday, May 19th. Tickets for the house tours are $30 on The Valerie Fund website The Valerie Fund and $35 at the door. About The Valerie Fund: After their nine-year-old daughter Valerie succumbed to cancer, founders Sue and Ed Goldstein were determined that no family should have to travel great distances to receive superior medical care. Along with a group of close friends, they began fundraising efforts from their living room---tireless work that would lead to the 1977 opening of New Jersey’s first pediatric oncology facility at Summit Overlook’s Hospital. More than 40 years later, The Valerie Fund’s mission remains that of supporting comprehensive health care for children battling cancer and blood disorders. Seven Valerie Fund Children’s Centers are located in the metropolitan New York and Philadelphia areas. For more information, please contact Bunny Flanders, Director of Marketing and Communications at bflanders@thevaleriefund.org Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Century Furniture and Carrier and Co. Launch at High Point Market #407 Links: Tickets for the Valerie Fund showhouse: The Valerie Fund Specials Show House The Valerie fund showhouse: The Valerie Fund The Valerie Fund Tina’s event at the showhouse as discussed in the show: Eventbrite Lady Drinks Cocktails And Private Tour with Interior Designer Tina Ramchandani In Support of Graces Tickets Tina's website and social media links: Tina Ramchandani Instagram: Tina Ramchandani Pinterest: Tina Ramchandani Creative Linkedin: Tina Ramchandani Tue, 26 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Tina Ramchandani: Creating Success in Interior Design full 415 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We have Tina Ramchandani, a really smart lady and the founder of Tina Ramchandani Creatives, with us on the show today. Tina is another interior designer who started her career by training at a well-established and... Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We have Tina Ramchandani, a really smart lady and the founder of Tina Ramchandani Creatives, with us on the show today. Tina is another interior designer who started her career by training at a well-established and well-run New York design firm and we know that it really makes a difference when young designers cut their teeth this way. Tina started her own design business in 2014 and in four short years, she has managed to establish herself as an interior designer on the rise. She was recently named one of House Beautiful Magazine's 2018 Next Way Designers and she has been featured in Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottage and Gardens, and more. Listen in today, to find out about Tina and her really successful design firm. In today's episode, Tina talks to us about her experience of working for the top-tier New York firm, Vicente Wolf and Associates, prior to opening her own design business. She discusses some of the practices that she has instituted in her firm, like her strategy for establishing monthly tasks in her business, to ensure that she's paying attention to the experience she's giving her clients. Today, Tina and LuAnn also talk about their involvement in the upcoming Designer Showhouse, Grace's House, by the Valerie Fund. LuAnn is on the committee, and Tina is one of the designers. Many of the designers selected to participate in bringing this really special home back to its former glory have been featured on this show, so we're giving all of them a special shout-out today, in appreciation for all that they are doing for our children! Tune in now to find out more! Show highlights: Window Works will be working with Tina and the other designers, doing window treatments and pillows for the Valerie Fund showhouse, Grace's House. Tina talks about her amazing experience and the confidence she gained from working for Vincente Wolf for five years. What Tina learned from working for Vincente Wolf, that she's brought to the way she runs her own firm, Tina Ramchandani Creative. The way that Vincente Wolf managed to inspire Tina's confidence. The natural way that Tina empowers her junior designer, Kay, in the same way, that she was inspired by Vincente. Learning to trust the people you have hired. How Tina knew that it was the right time for her to leave her mentor, Vincente. How interior design principals gain from giving their all to their junior designers. The systems that Tina initially took away from Vincente's firm. The way that Tina tweaked and changed some of Vincente's business systems, to work with the way she works. Tina and Kay sit down at the beginning of each year and assess the things that are not working and the things that need to change in the business. Tina discusses the goals that she and Kay set for each month. Tina and Kay meet each week to discuss what needs to be done in the business. Having outside help has really assisted Tina in running her own business. Tina has built in specific times of the month to address her business operations. The pressure that comes with being driven in business. Tina talks about the awesome Valerie Fund. All about the showhouse, Grace's House which is going to open on April 25th, 2019. There are many special events which will be happening at the opening of Grace's House. Tina talks about the colorful room that she is is designing in Grace's house. Benjamin Moore has kindly sponsored all the paint for Grace's House. Getting things to run smoothly when the pressure is on. Tina discusses the event that she is going to be doing with a women's group on the 15th of May, to raise money for the Valerie Fund. LuAnn is having a book signing for her new book, on the 30th of April, at 6 pm, at Grace's House. Tina's bio: Tina Ramchandani Creative (TRC) is a full-service design firm that creates modern, sophisticated and relaxed interiors. TRC's turn-key service makes it easy for clients to move into a completed home with minimal stress. Tina Ramchandani incorporates her vast experience and global perspective into her signature style that delivers a warm layered aesthetic, enhancing your lifestyle and inviting you to truly “live” in your bespoken space. Tina places a strong emphasis on artwork, couture pieces, and custom elements, within the client's budget. While creating a unique, livable environment for clients, Tina incorporates local artists and artisans to bring spaces to life, and showcase clients' personalities in their homes. TRC has developed a complete and individual onboarding process, which allows Tina to get to know clients and their needs in depth. Clients will share their inspirations with Tina, while also sharing details of how they live in their space, what they are looking to improve or change, as well as what they are interested in aesthetically. Tina and her team then create two complete design presentations for clients. First, the team offers a preliminary meeting, with floor plans and layouts, furniture styles, lighting pieces, fabrics, colors, and art inspirations. After honing in on the direction, TRC develops a comprehensive presentation for clients, soup to nuts. Tina and the team present every item in the space, from furniture to lighting and floor covering to window treatments. This allows clients to see the design vision in its entirety. Once approved TRC takes care of everything, so clients can sit back, relax, and watch their space come together. Tina Ramchandani developed her design expertise with several top tier, high-end residential and commercial interior design firms in Manhattan, including Frank & Marcotullio Design Associates and Vicente Wolf Associates, which led to the formation of Tina Ramchandani Creative in 2014. Ms. Ramchandani is deeply appreciative of good design and passionate about the impact social awareness can have on one’s life. Tina’s work has been nationally recognized by publications including Elle Décor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottages & Gardens, Lonny, Gotham, Cover, she was most recently named a “2018 Next Wave” designer by House Beautiful. She is also the founder of Life in Sketch, an internationally recognized interior design blog where she shares what inspires her in the world of design at large, from her daily experiences in New York to her extensive travels abroad. Press Release for Grace's House, presented by the Valerie Fund: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Valerie Fund The Valerie Fund presents Grace’s House, A Designer Showhouse Restoration of historic Plainfield mansion will benefit children in our area battling cancer and blood disorders Maplewood, N.J. January 14, 2019 – In May of 2018, nine-year-old Grace received a devastating diagnosis: she had a Germ Cell Brain Tumor. Grace’s treatment brought her to The Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Newark Beth Israel and after rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, she is recovering well. Her grateful family sought ways to give back to the organization that was taking such good care of their daughter and granddaughter. Last June, they spearheaded an extraordinary fundraising effort during The Valerie Fund’s annual 5K Run and Walk in Verona Park, Verona, NJ raising close to $32,000. Grace’s grandfather, Dan Reichard, a builder and principle of ER Development was interested in collaborating further with The Valerie Fund. He and his partners Thomas and George Allen purchased a 7,000+ square foot Colonial Revival in Plainfield, NJ restoring original elements and preparing it for featured designers to showcase their visions. Christened Grace’s House, the mansion is located in the historic Hillside Avenue district and will eventually be for sale, but in Spring 2019, the public will have the opportunity to tour approximately 20 of the house’s rooms, nooks, stairways and landings, and other spaces across three floors. Interior Design businesses selected to participate in bringing this very special home back to its former glory include: AK Design Studios, Monsey, NY ANEW Kitchen and Bath Design, Plainfield, NJ B-garcia designs, Montclair, NJ Butter and Velvet Home Designs, Denville, NJ California Closets, Fairfield, NJ CD Interiors, Manalapan Township, NJ The French Martini, Westfield, NJ Gail Davis Designs, South Orange, NJ Global Home Interior Design, Princeton, NJ Images in Design, Cranford, NJ JAB Design Group, Penn Valley, PA JMW Interiors, Millburn, NJ Liepold Design Group, Millburn, NJ Marina V. Design Studio, Ridgewood, NJ Mendham Interiors, Mendham, NJ Mimi & Hill, Westfield, NJ Samuel Robert Signature Spaces, Millburn, NJ Swati Goorha Designs, New Providence, NJ Tina Ramchandani Creative, New York “Building a Brighter Future for The Valerie Fund Kids.” Proceeds from public and private tours of the showhouse as well as ad journal sales and sponsorships will benefit The Valerie Fund’s Green Light Initiative, a $5,000,000 Capital Campaign. This initiative is the most ambitious chapter in The Valerie Fund’s history to date, poised to extend “next generation care” to thousands of children fighting life-threatening diseases. The Valerie Fund is proud to recognize Design NJ as a media sponsor, Holby Valve, Coughlin Duffy LLP, Stephen and Tina Squeri as sponsors and Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings as a sponsor and a designer resource. Generous in-kind sponsors already committed to the project include Benjamin Moore, Dente Trading Classic & Luxury Stone, Swarovski and Window Works. At The Valerie Fund each year, Grace and 6,000 other precious children benefit immeasurably by receiving their medical treatment close to home in a child-centered environment. Individualized support from an entire psychosocial team – Integrative and Palliative Care Specialists, Psychologists, Social workers, Child Life specialists, and Educational liaisons -- makes sure their quality of life is the best it can possibly be without regard to insurance reimbursements. And Grace’s favorite – Camp Happy Times, is a free one-week overnight summer camp for children with cancer. To see the amazing house transformation, Grace’s House will be open to the public every Thursday through Sunday beginning Thursday, April 25th through Sunday, May 19th. Tickets for the house tours are $30 on The Valerie Fund website The Valerie Fund and $35 at the door. About The Valerie Fund: After their nine-year-old daughter Valerie succumbed to cancer, founders Sue and Ed Goldstein were determined that no family should have to travel great distances to receive superior medical care. Along with a group of close friends, they began fundraising efforts from their living room---tireless work that would lead to the 1977 opening of New Jersey’s first pediatric oncology facility at Summit Overlook’s Hospital. More than 40 years later, The Valerie Fund’s mission remains that of supporting comprehensive health care for children battling cancer and blood disorders. Seven Valerie Fund Children’s Centers are located in the metropolitan New York and Philadelphia areas. For more information, please contact Bunny Flanders, Director of Marketing and Communications at bflanders@thevaleriefund.org Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Century Furniture and Carrier and Co. Launch at High Point Market #407 Links: Tickets for the Valerie Fund showhouse: The Valerie Fund Specials Show House The Valerie fund showhouse: The Valerie Fund The Valerie Fund Tina’s event at the showhouse as discussed in the show: Eventbrite Lady Drinks Cocktails And Private Tour with Interior Designer Tina Ramchandani In Support of Graces Tickets Tina's website and social media links: Tina Ramchandani Instagram: Tina Ramchandani Pinterest: Tina Ramchandani Creative Linkedin: Tina Ramchandani Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! We have Tina Ramchandani, a really smart lady and the founder of Tina Ramchandani Creatives, with us on the show today. Tina is another interior designer who started her career by training at a well-established and well-run New York design firm and we know that it really makes a difference when young designers cut their teeth this way. Tina started her own design business in 2014 and in four short years, she has managed to establish herself as an interior designer on the rise. She was recently named one of House Beautiful Magazine's 2018 Next Way Designers and she has been featured in Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottage and Gardens, and more. Listen in today, to find out about Tina and her really successful design firm.

In today's episode, Tina talks to us about her experience of working for the top-tier New York firm, Vicente Wolf and Associates, prior to opening her own design business. She discusses some of the practices that she has instituted in her firm, like her strategy for establishing monthly tasks in her business, to ensure that she's paying attention to the experience she's giving her clients. Today, Tina and LuAnn also talk about their involvement in the upcoming Designer Showhouse, Grace's House, by the Valerie Fund. LuAnn is on the committee, and Tina is one of the designers. Many of the designers selected to participate in bringing this really special home back to its former glory have been featured on this show, so we're giving all of them a special shout-out today, in appreciation for all that they are doing for our children! Tune in now to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • Window Works will be working with Tina and the other designers, doing window treatments and pillows for the Valerie Fund showhouse, Grace's House.
  • Tina talks about her amazing experience and the confidence she gained from working for Vincente Wolf for five years.
  • What Tina learned from working for Vincente Wolf, that she's brought to the way she runs her own firm, Tina Ramchandani Creative.
  • The way that Vincente Wolf managed to inspire Tina's confidence.
  • The natural way that Tina empowers her junior designer, Kay, in the same way, that she was inspired by Vincente.
  • Learning to trust the people you have hired.
  • How Tina knew that it was the right time for her to leave her mentor, Vincente.
  • How interior design principals gain from giving their all to their junior designers.
  • The systems that Tina initially took away from Vincente's firm.
  • The way that Tina tweaked and changed some of Vincente's business systems, to work with the way she works.
  • Tina and Kay sit down at the beginning of each year and assess the things that are not working and the things that need to change in the business.
  • Tina discusses the goals that she and Kay set for each month.
  • Tina and Kay meet each week to discuss what needs to be done in the business.
  • Having outside help has really assisted Tina in running her own business.
  • Tina has built in specific times of the month to address her business operations.
  • The pressure that comes with being driven in business.
  • Tina talks about the awesome Valerie Fund.
  • All about the showhouse, Grace's House which is going to open on April 25th, 2019.
  • There are many special events which will be happening at the opening of Grace's House.
  • Tina talks about the colorful room that she is is designing in Grace's house.
  • Benjamin Moore has kindly sponsored all the paint for Grace's House.
  • Getting things to run smoothly when the pressure is on.
  • Tina discusses the event that she is going to be doing with a women's group on the 15th of May, to raise money for the Valerie Fund.
  • LuAnn is having a book signing for her new book, on the 30th of April, at 6 pm, at Grace's House.

Tina's bio:

Tina Ramchandani Creative (TRC) is a full-service design firm that creates modern, sophisticated and relaxed interiors. TRC's turn-key service makes it easy for clients to move into a completed home with minimal stress. Tina Ramchandani incorporates her vast experience and global perspective into her signature style that delivers a warm layered aesthetic, enhancing your lifestyle and inviting you to truly “live” in your bespoken space. Tina places a strong emphasis on artwork, couture pieces, and custom elements, within the client's budget. While creating a unique, livable environment for clients, Tina incorporates local artists and artisans to bring spaces to life, and showcase clients' personalities in their homes.

TRC has developed a complete and individual onboarding process, which allows Tina to get to know clients and their needs in depth. Clients will share their inspirations with Tina, while also sharing details of how they live in their space, what they are looking to improve or change, as well as what they are interested in aesthetically. Tina and her team then create two complete design presentations for clients. First, the team offers a preliminary meeting, with floor plans and layouts, furniture styles, lighting pieces, fabrics, colors, and art inspirations. After honing in on the direction, TRC develops a comprehensive presentation for clients, soup to nuts. Tina and the team present every item in the space, from furniture to lighting and floor covering to window treatments. This allows clients to see the design vision in its entirety. Once approved TRC takes care of everything, so clients can sit back, relax, and watch their space come together.

Tina Ramchandani developed her design expertise with several top tier, high-end residential and commercial interior design firms in Manhattan, including Frank & Marcotullio Design Associates and Vicente Wolf Associates, which led to the formation of Tina Ramchandani Creative in 2014. Ms. Ramchandani is deeply appreciative of good design and passionate about the impact social awareness can have on one’s life. Tina’s work has been nationally recognized by publications including Elle Décor, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Cottages & Gardens, Lonny, Gotham, Cover, she was most recently named a “2018 Next Wave” designer by House Beautiful.

She is also the founder of Life in Sketch, an internationally recognized interior design blog where she shares what inspires her in the world of design at large, from her daily experiences in New York to her extensive travels abroad.

Press Release for Grace's House, presented by the Valerie Fund:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Valerie Fund

The Valerie Fund presents Grace’s House, A Designer Showhouse Restoration of historic Plainfield mansion will benefit children in our area battling cancer and blood disorders

Maplewood, N.J. January 14, 2019 – In May of 2018, nine-year-old Grace received a devastating diagnosis: she had a Germ Cell Brain Tumor. Grace’s treatment brought her to The Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Newark Beth Israel and after rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, she is recovering well. Her grateful family sought ways to give back to the organization that was taking such good care of their daughter and granddaughter. Last June, they spearheaded an extraordinary fundraising effort during The Valerie Fund’s annual 5K Run and Walk in Verona Park, Verona, NJ raising close to $32,000. Grace’s grandfather, Dan Reichard, a builder and principle of ER Development was interested in collaborating further with The Valerie Fund. He and his partners Thomas and George Allen purchased a 7,000+ square foot Colonial Revival in Plainfield, NJ restoring original elements and preparing it for featured designers to showcase their visions.

Christened Grace’s House, the mansion is located in the historic Hillside Avenue district and will eventually be for sale, but in Spring 2019, the public will have the opportunity to tour approximately 20 of the house’s rooms, nooks, stairways and landings, and other spaces across three floors.

Interior Design businesses selected to participate in bringing this very special home back to its former glory include:

AK Design Studios, Monsey, NY

ANEW Kitchen and Bath Design, Plainfield, NJ

B-garcia designs, Montclair, NJ

Butter and Velvet Home Designs, Denville, NJ

California Closets, Fairfield, NJ

CD Interiors, Manalapan Township, NJ

The French Martini, Westfield, NJ

Gail Davis Designs, South Orange, NJ

Global Home Interior Design, Princeton, NJ

Images in Design, Cranford, NJ

JAB Design Group, Penn Valley, PA

JMW Interiors, Millburn, NJ

Liepold Design Group, Millburn, NJ

Marina V. Design Studio, Ridgewood, NJ

Mendham Interiors, Mendham, NJ

Mimi & Hill, Westfield, NJ

Samuel Robert Signature Spaces, Millburn, NJ

Swati Goorha Designs, New Providence, NJ

Tina Ramchandani Creative, New York

“Building a Brighter Future for The Valerie Fund Kids.” Proceeds from public and private tours of the showhouse as well as ad journal sales and sponsorships will benefit The Valerie Fund’s Green Light Initiative, a $5,000,000 Capital Campaign. This initiative is the most ambitious chapter in The Valerie Fund’s history to date, poised to extend “next generation care” to thousands of children fighting life-threatening diseases. The Valerie Fund is proud to recognize Design NJ as a media sponsor, Holby Valve, Coughlin Duffy LLP, Stephen and Tina Squeri as sponsors and Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings as a sponsor and a designer resource. Generous in-kind sponsors already committed to the project include Benjamin Moore, Dente Trading Classic & Luxury Stone, Swarovski and Window Works.

At The Valerie Fund each year, Grace and 6,000 other precious children benefit immeasurably by receiving their medical treatment close to home in a child-centered environment. Individualized support from an entire psychosocial team – Integrative and Palliative Care Specialists, Psychologists, Social workers, Child Life specialists, and Educational liaisons -- makes sure their quality of life is the best it can possibly be without regard to insurance reimbursements. And Grace’s favorite – Camp Happy Times, is a free one-week overnight summer camp for children with cancer.

To see the amazing house transformation, Grace’s House will be open to the public every Thursday through Sunday beginning Thursday, April 25th through Sunday, May 19th. Tickets for the house tours are $30 on The Valerie Fund website The Valerie Fund and $35 at the door.

About The Valerie Fund: After their nine-year-old daughter Valerie succumbed to cancer, founders Sue and Ed Goldstein were determined that no family should have to travel great distances to receive superior medical care. Along with a group of close friends, they began fundraising efforts from their living room---tireless work that would lead to the 1977 opening of New Jersey’s first pediatric oncology facility at Summit Overlook’s Hospital. More than 40 years later, The Valerie Fund’s mission remains that of supporting comprehensive health care for children battling cancer and blood disorders. Seven Valerie Fund Children’s Centers are located in the metropolitan New York and Philadelphia areas.

For more information, please contact Bunny Flanders, Director of Marketing and Communications at bflanders@thevaleriefund.org

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Century Furniture and Carrier and Co. Launch at High Point Market #407

Links:

Tickets for the Valerie Fund showhouse: The Valerie Fund Specials Show House

The Valerie fund showhouse:

The Valerie Fund

The Valerie Fund

Tina’s event at the showhouse as discussed in the show:

Eventbrite Lady Drinks Cocktails And Private Tour with Interior Designer Tina Ramchandani In Support of Graces Tickets

Tina's website and social media links:

Tina Ramchandani

Instagram: Tina Ramchandani

Pinterest: Tina Ramchandani Creative

Linkedin: Tina Ramchandani

]]> 3393 no 414: Bellacor: Trade Resource for Lighting, Home Decor, & Furniture http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/414-bellacor-trade-resource-for-lighting-home-decor-furniture Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by  Bellacor, and we have Sara Saferstein, the director of the Bellacor Pro Division, with us on the show. Bellacor is an online company, established in 2000. They have all the top brands in lighting, decor, and furniture, and they have commercial products as well as residential. In today's episode, Sara will be talking to us about the Bellacor Pro Division, which is their resource for you, as an interior design professional. Listen in today, to find out how Bellacor Pro can make your life easier and your next project a little less of a project. The Bellacor Pro Division is there to help you with your projects, whether you're working on single, one-client projects or on the commercial side, with multi-unit projects. Bellacor Pro has a team specifically dedicated to helping you with your orders and there are also ALA certified personal account managers, available to help you with all your questions around specifying and sourcing their products. Bellacor Pro has a special trade-pricing program with free shipping, and right now they are welcoming new interior design accounts, and other trade professional accounts to join them. Tune in today, to get all the details about the awesome Bellacor Pro Program. Show highlights: Sara talks about the Bellacor dedicated trade team, specifically for interior designers. The kind of partnerships that Bellacor builds with the interior design and the builder communities. It really helps to not have to worry about all the little details of a project. Sara talks about her experience in the industry. The wide range of lighting and furniture items and products that Bellacor has for interior designers. Sara explains the advantages of using Bellacor Pro as your resource for lighting and furniture products. You will get Bellacor's trade pricing with any of their manufacturers. Why you really need to be part of Bellacor's trade program. About Bellacor's free shipping, and their flexible 30-day return policy. Bellacor is willing to think outside the box in order to help make your purchase successful. The advantages of having a dedicated team on tap to help you. The way that Bellacor Pro helps designers, day-to-day, with their projects. Bellacor Pro offers interior designers continuing education. There is a lot of complexity and detail involved in lighting. Bellacor Pro really adds value for designers. Bellacor Pro brings you the look you want at the price point you can afford. Get the best product at the best price from Bellacor Pro. Experience the Bellacor Pro Advantage of a high value, high touch relationship with their community. About Bellacor Pro: Unique clients require unique solutions. As designers, you need to delight your clients, deliver on time and on budget and we understand that. We are Bellacor Pro — A trade-program designed to meet the unique requests of interior designers, architects, builders, and other trade professionals. We deliver exceptional product selection and service including: Guaranteed low pricing every day: Get our best trade pricing Brands you love: Select from more than 500 designer- and builder-preferred brands in lighting, furniture, and home décor. Dedicated account team: Your dedicated account team of industry veterans and ALA-certified professionals will help you find the perfect products for every project in your portfolio. Free shipping: Everyday free shipping, with no minimums for trade professionals. Sara Saferstein, the Director of Bellacor Professional, has more than 20 years of industry experience working with manufacturers, designers, and retailers in lighting and home décor. Her team will make your next project a little less of a project while making your life as a designer easier. Links: BellacorPro: Bellacor LinkedIn: Bellacor Instagram: Bellacor Lighting Facebook: Bellacor Lighting Twitter: Bellacor Pinterest: Bellacor Telephone the Bellacor Accounts Management Team: 1877 688 7039 Fri, 22 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Bellacor: Trade Resource for Lighting, Home Decor, & Furniture full 414 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by  Bellacor, and we have Sara Saferstein, the director of the Bellacor Pro Division, with us on the show. Bellacor is an online company, established in 2000. They have all the top brands in... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by  Bellacor, and we have Sara Saferstein, the director of the Bellacor Pro Division, with us on the show. Bellacor is an online company, established in 2000. They have all the top brands in lighting, decor, and furniture, and they have commercial products as well as residential. In today's episode, Sara will be talking to us about the Bellacor Pro Division, which is their resource for you, as an interior design professional. Listen in today, to find out how Bellacor Pro can make your life easier and your next project a little less of a project. The Bellacor Pro Division is there to help you with your projects, whether you're working on single, one-client projects or on the commercial side, with multi-unit projects. Bellacor Pro has a team specifically dedicated to helping you with your orders and there are also ALA certified personal account managers, available to help you with all your questions around specifying and sourcing their products. Bellacor Pro has a special trade-pricing program with free shipping, and right now they are welcoming new interior design accounts, and other trade professional accounts to join them. Tune in today, to get all the details about the awesome Bellacor Pro Program. Show highlights: Sara talks about the Bellacor dedicated trade team, specifically for interior designers. The kind of partnerships that Bellacor builds with the interior design and the builder communities. It really helps to not have to worry about all the little details of a project. Sara talks about her experience in the industry. The wide range of lighting and furniture items and products that Bellacor has for interior designers. Sara explains the advantages of using Bellacor Pro as your resource for lighting and furniture products. You will get Bellacor's trade pricing with any of their manufacturers. Why you really need to be part of Bellacor's trade program. About Bellacor's free shipping, and their flexible 30-day return policy. Bellacor is willing to think outside the box in order to help make your purchase successful. The advantages of having a dedicated team on tap to help you. The way that Bellacor Pro helps designers, day-to-day, with their projects. Bellacor Pro offers interior designers continuing education. There is a lot of complexity and detail involved in lighting. Bellacor Pro really adds value for designers. Bellacor Pro brings you the look you want at the price point you can afford. Get the best product at the best price from Bellacor Pro. Experience the Bellacor Pro Advantage of a high value, high touch relationship with their community. About Bellacor Pro: Unique clients require unique solutions. As designers, you need to delight your clients, deliver on time and on budget and we understand that. We are Bellacor Pro — A trade-program designed to meet the unique requests of interior designers, architects, builders, and other trade professionals. We deliver exceptional product selection and service including: Guaranteed low pricing every day: Get our best trade pricing Brands you love: Select from more than 500 designer- and builder-preferred brands in lighting, furniture, and home décor. Dedicated account team: Your dedicated account team of industry veterans and ALA-certified professionals will help you find the perfect products for every project in your portfolio. Free shipping: Everyday free shipping, with no minimums for trade professionals. Sara Saferstein, the Director of Bellacor Professional, has more than 20 years of industry experience working with manufacturers, designers, and retailers in lighting and home décor. Her team will make your next project a little less of a project while making your life as a designer easier. Links: BellacorPro: Bellacor LinkedIn: Bellacor Instagram: Bellacor Lighting Facebook: Bellacor Lighting Twitter: Bellacor Pinterest: Bellacor Telephone the Bellacor Accounts Management Team: 1877 688 7039 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is sponsored by  Bellacor, and we have Sara Saferstein, the director of the Bellacor Pro Division, with us on the show. Bellacor is an online company, established in 2000. They have all the top brands in lighting, decor, and furniture, and they have commercial products as well as residential. In today's episode, Sara will be talking to us about the Bellacor Pro Division, which is their resource for you, as an interior design professional. Listen in today, to find out how Bellacor Pro can make your life easier and your next project a little less of a project.

The Bellacor Pro Division is there to help you with your projects, whether you're working on single, one-client projects or on the commercial side, with multi-unit projects. Bellacor Pro has a team specifically dedicated to helping you with your orders and there are also ALA certified personal account managers, available to help you with all your questions around specifying and sourcing their products. Bellacor Pro has a special trade-pricing program with free shipping, and right now they are welcoming new interior design accounts, and other trade professional accounts to join them. Tune in today, to get all the details about the awesome Bellacor Pro Program.

Show highlights:

  • Sara talks about the Bellacor dedicated trade team, specifically for interior designers.
  • The kind of partnerships that Bellacor builds with the interior design and the builder communities.
  • It really helps to not have to worry about all the little details of a project.
  • Sara talks about her experience in the industry.
  • The wide range of lighting and furniture items and products that Bellacor has for interior designers.
  • Sara explains the advantages of using Bellacor Pro as your resource for lighting and furniture products.
  • You will get Bellacor's trade pricing with any of their manufacturers.
  • Why you really need to be part of Bellacor's trade program.
  • About Bellacor's free shipping, and their flexible 30-day return policy.
  • Bellacor is willing to think outside the box in order to help make your purchase successful.
  • The advantages of having a dedicated team on tap to help you.
  • The way that Bellacor Pro helps designers, day-to-day, with their projects.
  • Bellacor Pro offers interior designers continuing education.
  • There is a lot of complexity and detail involved in lighting.
  • Bellacor Pro really adds value for designers.
  • Bellacor Pro brings you the look you want at the price point you can afford.
  • Get the best product at the best price from Bellacor Pro.
  • Experience the Bellacor Pro Advantage of a high value, high touch relationship with their community.

About Bellacor Pro:

Unique clients require unique solutions.

As designers, you need to delight your clients, deliver on time and on budget and we understand that. We are Bellacor Pro — A trade-program designed to meet the unique requests of interior designers, architects, builders, and other trade professionals. We deliver exceptional product selection and service including:

  • Guaranteed low pricing every day: Get our best trade pricing
  • Brands you love: Select from more than 500 designer- and builder-preferred brands in lighting, furniture, and home décor.
  • Dedicated account team: Your dedicated account team of industry veterans and

ALA-certified professionals will help you find the perfect products for every

project in your portfolio.

  • Free shipping: Everyday free shipping, with no minimums for trade professionals.

Sara Saferstein, the Director of Bellacor Professional, has more than 20 years of industry experience working with manufacturers, designers, and retailers in lighting and home décor. Her team will make your next project a little less of a project while making your life as a designer easier.

Links:

BellacorPro: Bellacor

LinkedIn: Bellacor

Instagram: Bellacor Lighting

Facebook: Bellacor Lighting

Twitter: Bellacor

Pinterest: Bellacor

Telephone the Bellacor Accounts Management Team: 1877 688 7039

]]> 2885 no 413: Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/413-leslie-price-evolution-of-a-career-in-interior-design Welcome! Today we have Leslie Price, the principal of Price Style and Design, with us on the show. Leslie's superpower is sourcing and selling art for her projects and in today's episode, she explains why this is so important and personal to her. We also have a really nice conversation with her about her career and the turns it has taken, starting out in the home staging industry and then pivoting into strictly interior design. Leslie also talks to us about her studio and the wonderful setup she has in collaboration with her upholsterer, and about the pros and cons of charging for an initial consultation. Listen in now to find out more. Price Style and Design is a San Francisco Bay Area-based design and style firm, specializing in creating colorful, comfortable, and welcoming interiors. Award-winning designer and owner, Leslie Price, has a passion for creating light-filled, open, and uncluttered spaces influenced by an appreciation for the fresh colors of nature- an instintive artistic awareness which she developed growing up in Honolulu, Hawaii. Leslie's impeccable attention to every detail will help you create comfortable and beautiful spaces that speak to your heart. Working from the belief that you must love where you live, Leslie and her team focus on designing spaces that inspire joy and happiness. With expertise from a thirty-year visual merchandising and design career, Leslie is uniquely positioned to help you understand and refine your own style, so you can enjoy the 'art of living' in your home. Tune in to find out what Leslie has to share. Show highlights: Leslie talks about the mid-life epiphany she had about her business. Leslie goes with the flow because she knows it will all work out in the end. How Leslie's interior design career began with home-staging. Her transition from home-staging to interior design. Why Leslie moved from home-staging to interior design. Some of the realtors that Leslie used to work for, doing home-staging, still send her client referrals. Leslie talks about her retail space, it's a purpose, and what it means to her business. The win-win situation Leslie has with the people she splits the rental for her retail space with. Why Leslie doesn't charge for her initial consultation. The struggle that Leslie's having with not charging for her initial consultation. Leslie believes that art is a legacy that talks about your soul. Leslie talks about her passion for helping clients to source their works of art. Art is an asset that continues to gain value. How Leslie helps her clients to make the most of their art. The way that Leslie sources works of art for her clients. How Leslie charges her clients for finding their art. Leslie bridges that gap between artists and buyers who may be intimidated to speak to the artists. Leslie talks about her mother's art and her art collection. Links: New podcast by Marianne Cherico launched Jan 25, 2019: Home Stagers and Designers on Fire  Leslie's website: Price Style And Design Leslie's Instagram: @pricestyleanddesign  Facebook:  Price Style And Design Pinterest:  Price Styling Previous episodes, with more info on home staging: Shauna Lynn Simon #76 Yohan May Interiors #396 Marianne Cherico #123 Taylor Spellman #106 Previous episodes, for more info on selecting, selling and framing art: Katharine Earnhardt #239 Paul Thomas & Daniel Beauchemin #291 Previous episodes, for more info on creating a lead magnet: Savour Partnership #209 Tue, 19 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design full 413 LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Leslie Price, the principal of Price Style and Design, with us on the show. Leslie's superpower is sourcing and selling art for her projects and in today's episode, she explains why this is so important and personal to her. We... Welcome! Today we have Leslie Price, the principal of Price Style and Design, with us on the show. Leslie's superpower is sourcing and selling art for her projects and in today's episode, she explains why this is so important and personal to her. We also have a really nice conversation with her about her career and the turns it has taken, starting out in the home staging industry and then pivoting into strictly interior design. Leslie also talks to us about her studio and the wonderful setup she has in collaboration with her upholsterer, and about the pros and cons of charging for an initial consultation. Listen in now to find out more. Price Style and Design is a San Francisco Bay Area-based design and style firm, specializing in creating colorful, comfortable, and welcoming interiors. Award-winning designer and owner, Leslie Price, has a passion for creating light-filled, open, and uncluttered spaces influenced by an appreciation for the fresh colors of nature- an instintive artistic awareness which she developed growing up in Honolulu, Hawaii. Leslie's impeccable attention to every detail will help you create comfortable and beautiful spaces that speak to your heart. Working from the belief that you must love where you live, Leslie and her team focus on designing spaces that inspire joy and happiness. With expertise from a thirty-year visual merchandising and design career, Leslie is uniquely positioned to help you understand and refine your own style, so you can enjoy the 'art of living' in your home. Tune in to find out what Leslie has to share. Show highlights: Leslie talks about the mid-life epiphany she had about her business. Leslie goes with the flow because she knows it will all work out in the end. How Leslie's interior design career began with home-staging. Her transition from home-staging to interior design. Why Leslie moved from home-staging to interior design. Some of the realtors that Leslie used to work for, doing home-staging, still send her client referrals. Leslie talks about her retail space, it's a purpose, and what it means to her business. The win-win situation Leslie has with the people she splits the rental for her retail space with. Why Leslie doesn't charge for her initial consultation. The struggle that Leslie's having with not charging for her initial consultation. Leslie believes that art is a legacy that talks about your soul. Leslie talks about her passion for helping clients to source their works of art. Art is an asset that continues to gain value. How Leslie helps her clients to make the most of their art. The way that Leslie sources works of art for her clients. How Leslie charges her clients for finding their art. Leslie bridges that gap between artists and buyers who may be intimidated to speak to the artists. Leslie talks about her mother's art and her art collection. Links: New podcast by Marianne Cherico launched Jan 25, 2019: Home Stagers and Designers on Fire  Leslie's website: Price Style And Design Leslie's Instagram: @pricestyleanddesign  Facebook:  Price Style And Design Pinterest:  Price Styling Previous episodes, with more info on home staging: Shauna Lynn Simon #76 Yohan May Interiors #396 Marianne Cherico #123 Taylor Spellman #106 Previous episodes, for more info on selecting, selling and framing art: Katharine Earnhardt #239 Paul Thomas & Daniel Beauchemin #291 Previous episodes, for more info on creating a lead magnet: Savour Partnership #209 Welcome! Today we have Leslie Price, the principal of Price Style and Design, with us on the show. Leslie's superpower is sourcing and selling art for her projects and in today's episode, she explains why this is so important and personal to her. We also have a really nice conversation with her about her career and the turns it has taken, starting out in the home staging industry and then pivoting into strictly interior design. Leslie also talks to us about her studio and the wonderful setup she has in collaboration with her upholsterer, and about the pros and cons of charging for an initial consultation. Listen in now to find out more.

Price Style and Design is a San Francisco Bay Area-based design and style firm, specializing in creating colorful, comfortable, and welcoming interiors. Award-winning designer and owner, Leslie Price, has a passion for creating light-filled, open, and uncluttered spaces influenced by an appreciation for the fresh colors of nature- an instintive artistic awareness which she developed growing up in Honolulu, Hawaii. Leslie's impeccable attention to every detail will help you create comfortable and beautiful spaces that speak to your heart.

Working from the belief that you must love where you live, Leslie and her team focus on designing spaces that inspire joy and happiness. With expertise from a thirty-year visual merchandising and design career, Leslie is uniquely positioned to help you understand and refine your own style, so you can enjoy the 'art of living' in your home. Tune in to find out what Leslie has to share.

Show highlights:

  • Leslie talks about the mid-life epiphany she had about her business.
  • Leslie goes with the flow because she knows it will all work out in the end.
  • How Leslie's interior design career began with home-staging.
  • Her transition from home-staging to interior design.
  • Why Leslie moved from home-staging to interior design.
  • Some of the realtors that Leslie used to work for, doing home-staging, still send her client referrals.
  • Leslie talks about her retail space, it's a purpose, and what it means to her business.
  • The win-win situation Leslie has with the people she splits the rental for her retail space with.
  • Why Leslie doesn't charge for her initial consultation.
  • The struggle that Leslie's having with not charging for her initial consultation.
  • Leslie believes that art is a legacy that talks about your soul.
  • Leslie talks about her passion for helping clients to source their works of art.
  • Art is an asset that continues to gain value.
  • How Leslie helps her clients to make the most of their art.
  • The way that Leslie sources works of art for her clients.
  • How Leslie charges her clients for finding their art.
  • Leslie bridges that gap between artists and buyers who may be intimidated to speak to the artists.
  • Leslie talks about her mother's art and her art collection.

Links:

New podcast by Marianne Cherico launched Jan 25, 2019:

Home Stagers and Designers on Fire 

Leslie's website: Price Style And Design

Leslie's Instagram: @pricestyleanddesign 

Facebook:  Price Style And Design

Pinterest:  Price Styling

Previous episodes, with more info on home staging:

Shauna Lynn Simon #76

Yohan May Interiors #396

Marianne Cherico #123

Taylor Spellman #106

Previous episodes, for more info on selecting, selling and framing art:

Katharine Earnhardt #239

Paul Thomas & Daniel Beauchemin #291

Previous episodes, for more info on creating a lead magnet:

Savour Partnership #209

]]> 3779 no 412: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/412-power-talk-friday-ashley-uhl-how-to-deliver-a-high-end-client-experience Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have a really terrific guest, Ashley Uhl, the founder and principal of Ashley Uhl Consulting, with us on the show today. Ashley consults and teaches interior designers, just like you, how to deliver a high-end service experience. If done correctly, this will lead to more efficiency in your business, greater profit, and most importantly, client loyalty. Ashley is one smart lady and she knows the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business.  In today's episode, she explains how to keep things simple in your business to uplevel it and create the kind of experience that makes clients come back. Tune in now! You're going to love it! Ashley has a background in client relations, sales, and communications at the top leadership development company, Dale Carnegie. She's also had a number years of working with, and getting to understand the expectations of high net worth clients at the wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley. In addition, Ashley also pursued her certificate in interior design. Listen in today, to find out from Ashley how to improve the process and client experience of your business and to attract luxury, high-end clients. Show highlights: Ashley shares the three E's of high-end service experience. It's the small things that count. Showing your clients that you're ready to take their project on. Ashley has created a pyramid to explain the levels of need of the client experience. Dealing with grey areas with clients. Making it easy for your clients to understand, and be part of your design process. Manage the clients' expectations. They want you to lead them and they feel safer when they see that you are in control. Make it easy for the client to hire you. Creating loyalty that will last a lifetime. The way you handle your mistakes will have an impact on your success. A handwritten thank you note really makes a great impression. The benefits of developing a great relationship with a restaurant. A million tiny things can add up to a really incredible experience. Giving high-end clients unique and awesome experiences. How designers can work with Ashley and Ashley Uhl Consulting. Ashley teaches systems and processes, with a touch of luxury. Bio: Ashley Uhl, owner, and founder of Ashley Uhl Consulting know the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business. That’s why her mission is to help designers learn how to deliver the type of high-end service experience that allows them to increase their profits, efficiency, and client loyalty. Ashley’s been cultivating a love for service her entire lifetime. Traveling extensively throughout the world early on in life, she developed incredible respect, understanding, and interest in the five-star service and hospitality she encountered. She furthered her interest in service with formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations for top professional development company, Dale Carnegie. This allowed her to expand her abilities to both create memorable experiences for customers, and prevent conflicts and frustrations from happening between a business and their clients. While later serving high net worth clients at wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley, and simultaneously decorating her first home, Ashley found her other passion, interior design. But after working on projects with family and friends, she realized that design itself wasn’t her calling. So with a nudge from her husband, she decided to combine her love for both service and design. Thus, allowing her to become the first and only service consultant exclusively focused on interior designers. Links and Resources: Ashley's website: Ashley Uhl Consulting You can sign up here for a free download of Ashley's The Essentials of a High End Designer Experience. And Ashley is offering you, the listener, 20% off of any of her services. Please use the code WELLDESIGNED. Ashley's blog: Ashley Uhl Consulting Ashley on Instagram: Ashley Uhl Consulting Ashley on Facebook: Ashley Uhl Consulting LuAnn on Instagram: Luann Nigara   Ashley Uhl’s company, Ashley Uhl Consulting is one of the sponsors of LuAnn Nigara Live. To register, go to https://luannnigara.com/luann-live/ Fri, 15 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience full 412 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have a really terrific guest, Ashley Uhl, the founder and principal of Ashley Uhl Consulting, with us on the show today. Ashley consults and teaches interior designers, just like you, how to deliver a high-end service... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have a really terrific guest, Ashley Uhl, the founder and principal of Ashley Uhl Consulting, with us on the show today. Ashley consults and teaches interior designers, just like you, how to deliver a high-end service experience. If done correctly, this will lead to more efficiency in your business, greater profit, and most importantly, client loyalty. Ashley is one smart lady and she knows the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business.  In today's episode, she explains how to keep things simple in your business to uplevel it and create the kind of experience that makes clients come back. Tune in now! You're going to love it! Ashley has a background in client relations, sales, and communications at the top leadership development company, Dale Carnegie. She's also had a number years of working with, and getting to understand the expectations of high net worth clients at the wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley. In addition, Ashley also pursued her certificate in interior design. Listen in today, to find out from Ashley how to improve the process and client experience of your business and to attract luxury, high-end clients. Show highlights: Ashley shares the three E's of high-end service experience. It's the small things that count. Showing your clients that you're ready to take their project on. Ashley has created a pyramid to explain the levels of need of the client experience. Dealing with grey areas with clients. Making it easy for your clients to understand, and be part of your design process. Manage the clients' expectations. They want you to lead them and they feel safer when they see that you are in control. Make it easy for the client to hire you. Creating loyalty that will last a lifetime. The way you handle your mistakes will have an impact on your success. A handwritten thank you note really makes a great impression. The benefits of developing a great relationship with a restaurant. A million tiny things can add up to a really incredible experience. Giving high-end clients unique and awesome experiences. How designers can work with Ashley and Ashley Uhl Consulting. Ashley teaches systems and processes, with a touch of luxury. Bio: Ashley Uhl, owner, and founder of Ashley Uhl Consulting know the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business. That’s why her mission is to help designers learn how to deliver the type of high-end service experience that allows them to increase their profits, efficiency, and client loyalty. Ashley’s been cultivating a love for service her entire lifetime. Traveling extensively throughout the world early on in life, she developed incredible respect, understanding, and interest in the five-star service and hospitality she encountered. She furthered her interest in service with formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations for top professional development company, Dale Carnegie. This allowed her to expand her abilities to both create memorable experiences for customers, and prevent conflicts and frustrations from happening between a business and their clients. While later serving high net worth clients at wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley, and simultaneously decorating her first home, Ashley found her other passion, interior design. But after working on projects with family and friends, she realized that design itself wasn’t her calling. So with a nudge from her husband, she decided to combine her love for both service and design. Thus, allowing her to become the first and only service consultant exclusively focused on interior designers. Links and Resources: Ashley's website: Ashley Uhl Consulting You can sign up here for a free download of Ashley's The Essentials of a High End Designer Experience. And Ashley is offering you, the listener, 20% off of any of her services. Please use the code WELLDESIGNED. Ashley's blog: Ashley Uhl Consulting Ashley on Instagram: Ashley Uhl Consulting Ashley on Facebook: Ashley Uhl Consulting LuAnn on Instagram: Luann Nigara   Ashley Uhl’s company, Ashley Uhl Consulting is one of the sponsors of LuAnn Nigara Live. To register, go to https://luannnigara.com/luann-live/ Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have a really terrific guest, Ashley Uhl, the founder and principal of Ashley Uhl Consulting, with us on the show today. Ashley consults and teaches interior designers, just like you, how to deliver a high-end service experience. If done correctly, this will lead to more efficiency in your business, greater profit, and most importantly, client loyalty. Ashley is one smart lady and she knows the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business.  In today's episode, she explains how to keep things simple in your business to uplevel it and create the kind of experience that makes clients come back. Tune in now! You're going to love it!

Ashley has a background in client relations, sales, and communications at the top leadership development company, Dale Carnegie. She's also had a number years of working with, and getting to understand the expectations of high net worth clients at the wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley. In addition, Ashley also pursued her certificate in interior design. Listen in today, to find out from Ashley how to improve the process and client experience of your business and to attract luxury, high-end clients.

Show highlights:

  • Ashley shares the three E's of high-end service experience.
  • It's the small things that count.
  • Showing your clients that you're ready to take their project on.
  • Ashley has created a pyramid to explain the levels of need of the client experience.
  • Dealing with grey areas with clients.
  • Making it easy for your clients to understand, and be part of your design process.
  • Manage the clients' expectations. They want you to lead them and they feel safer when they see that you are in control.
  • Make it easy for the client to hire you.
  • Creating loyalty that will last a lifetime.
  • The way you handle your mistakes will have an impact on your success.
  • A handwritten thank you note really makes a great impression.
  • The benefits of developing a great relationship with a restaurant.
  • A million tiny things can add up to a really incredible experience.
  • Giving high-end clients unique and awesome experiences.
  • How designers can work with Ashley and Ashley Uhl Consulting.
  • Ashley teaches systems and processes, with a touch of luxury.

Bio: Ashley Uhl, owner, and founder of Ashley Uhl Consulting know the incredible impact that delivering a spectacular experience can have on a business. That’s why her mission is to help designers learn how to deliver the type of high-end service experience that allows them to increase their profits, efficiency, and client loyalty.

Ashley’s been cultivating a love for service her entire lifetime. Traveling extensively throughout the world early on in life, she developed incredible respect, understanding, and interest in the five-star service and hospitality she encountered.

She furthered her interest in service with formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations for top professional development company, Dale Carnegie. This allowed her to expand her abilities to both create memorable experiences for customers, and prevent conflicts and frustrations from happening between a business and their clients.

While later serving high net worth clients at wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley, and simultaneously decorating her first home, Ashley found her other passion, interior design. But after working on projects with family and friends, she realized that design itself wasn’t her calling. So with a nudge from her husband, she decided to combine her love for both service and design. Thus, allowing her to become the first and only service consultant exclusively focused on interior designers.

Links and Resources:

Ashley's website: Ashley Uhl Consulting You can sign up here for a free download of Ashley's The Essentials of a High End Designer Experience. And Ashley is offering you, the listener, 20% off of any of her services. Please use the code WELLDESIGNED.

Ashley's blog: Ashley Uhl Consulting

Ashley on Instagram: Ashley Uhl Consulting

Ashley on Facebook: Ashley Uhl Consulting

LuAnn on Instagram: Luann Nigara

 

Ashley Uhl’s company, Ashley Uhl Consulting is one of the sponsors of LuAnn Nigara Live. To register, go to https://luannnigara.com/luann-live/

]]> 4077 no 411: Nicole Gibbons: Interior Designer, TV Personality, Founder and CEO of Clare http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/411-nicole-gibbons-interior-designer-tv-personality-founder-and-ceo-of-clare Welcome to today's episode! We have Nicole Gibbons on the show with us today and she's an entrepreneur, interior designer, blogger, and on-air personality. Nicole spent more than a decade in the fashion industry, serving as the Global Director of PR and Events at a major woman's retailer, prior to starting her work in the interior design industry. She has appeared on the Emmy Award-winning Home Made Simple, as well as on the Oprah Winfrey Network, for three seasons as a designer helping deserving families to re-imagine their living spaces. Listen in today, to find out more about Nicole. Almost every interior design client that Nicole worked with complained to her about the overwhelming process of selecting and buying paint and also about the lack of transparency with the paint ingredients. So now Nicole has turned her attention to the paint industry, as the founder and CEO of an innovative new resource in paint called Clare. Clare takes the pain out of paint shopping because all the paint is Premium Zero VOC and Greenguard Gold Certified. Clare is also the first ever direct-to-consumer paint brand and Nicole has a to the trade program available, just for you! On the show today, she talks to us about her journey and she shares her observations about her diverse career and explains how Clare is reinventing the way that people shop for paint. Tune in for more! Show highlights: Nicole talks about her how she created her career by design. Transferring your skills from one career to the next. Nicole would love to be the next Martha Stewart. How Nicole's career has evolved. Strategically creating a parallel path is not an easy thing to do. Some tips for establishing yourself in the design industry as a recognized expert. What it takes for an opportunity to get on TV. TV really doesn't pay as much as you would expect. How to be comfortable in front of the camera. About Nicole's exciting new endeavor that came to fruition in 2018. Nicole really wanted to disrupt an industry and do something that could help people solve a problem. Nicole's 'aha' moment. How Nicole has done to simplify the color palette. The way that Nicole helps people with their color choice. Nicole's product descriptions really help you to understand what the color will feel like. About the features of Clare's seamless to the trade program. Nicole wants people to feel as safe as possible when using her paint products. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: High Point Market Spring 2019: Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung #406 Century Furniture with Carrier & Co #407 Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet #408 Links: Nicole's website: Clare Article If you are going to HP Spring 2019, please join LuAnn on Saturday, April 6th at 12 noon at the HPMKT Theater. She will be giving a keynote presentation followed by a book signing of her new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. This book is actually launching the week before at LuAnn's big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. To learn more, go to Luann Nigara and click on live events. Tue, 12 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have Nicole Gibbons on the show with us today and she's an entrepreneur, interior designer, blogger, and on-air personality. Nicole spent more than a decade in the fashion industry, serving as the Global Director of PR... Welcome to today's episode! We have Nicole Gibbons on the show with us today and she's an entrepreneur, interior designer, blogger, and on-air personality. Nicole spent more than a decade in the fashion industry, serving as the Global Director of PR and Events at a major woman's retailer, prior to starting her work in the interior design industry. She has appeared on the Emmy Award-winning Home Made Simple, as well as on the Oprah Winfrey Network, for three seasons as a designer helping deserving families to re-imagine their living spaces. Listen in today, to find out more about Nicole. Almost every interior design client that Nicole worked with complained to her about the overwhelming process of selecting and buying paint and also about the lack of transparency with the paint ingredients. So now Nicole has turned her attention to the paint industry, as the founder and CEO of an innovative new resource in paint called Clare. Clare takes the pain out of paint shopping because all the paint is Premium Zero VOC and Greenguard Gold Certified. Clare is also the first ever direct-to-consumer paint brand and Nicole has a to the trade program available, just for you! On the show today, she talks to us about her journey and she shares her observations about her diverse career and explains how Clare is reinventing the way that people shop for paint. Tune in for more! Show highlights: Nicole talks about her how she created her career by design. Transferring your skills from one career to the next. Nicole would love to be the next Martha Stewart. How Nicole's career has evolved. Strategically creating a parallel path is not an easy thing to do. Some tips for establishing yourself in the design industry as a recognized expert. What it takes for an opportunity to get on TV. TV really doesn't pay as much as you would expect. How to be comfortable in front of the camera. About Nicole's exciting new endeavor that came to fruition in 2018. Nicole really wanted to disrupt an industry and do something that could help people solve a problem. Nicole's 'aha' moment. How Nicole has done to simplify the color palette. The way that Nicole helps people with their color choice. Nicole's product descriptions really help you to understand what the color will feel like. About the features of Clare's seamless to the trade program. Nicole wants people to feel as safe as possible when using her paint products. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: High Point Market Spring 2019: Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung #406 Century Furniture with Carrier & Co #407 Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet #408 Links: Nicole's website: Clare Article If you are going to HP Spring 2019, please join LuAnn on Saturday, April 6th at 12 noon at the HPMKT Theater. She will be giving a keynote presentation followed by a book signing of her new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. This book is actually launching the week before at LuAnn's big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. To learn more, go to Luann Nigara and click on live events. Welcome to today's episode! We have Nicole Gibbons on the show with us today and she's an entrepreneur, interior designer, blogger, and on-air personality. Nicole spent more than a decade in the fashion industry, serving as the Global Director of PR and Events at a major woman's retailer, prior to starting her work in the interior design industry. She has appeared on the Emmy Award-winning Home Made Simple, as well as on the Oprah Winfrey Network, for three seasons as a designer helping deserving families to re-imagine their living spaces. Listen in today, to find out more about Nicole.

Almost every interior design client that Nicole worked with complained to her about the overwhelming process of selecting and buying paint and also about the lack of transparency with the paint ingredients. So now Nicole has turned her attention to the paint industry, as the founder and CEO of an innovative new resource in paint called Clare. Clare takes the pain out of paint shopping because all the paint is Premium Zero VOC and Greenguard Gold Certified. Clare is also the first ever direct-to-consumer paint brand and Nicole has a to the trade program available, just for you! On the show today, she talks to us about her journey and she shares her observations about her diverse career and explains how Clare is reinventing the way that people shop for paint. Tune in for more!

Show highlights:

  • Nicole talks about her how she created her career by design.
  • Transferring your skills from one career to the next.
  • Nicole would love to be the next Martha Stewart.
  • How Nicole's career has evolved.
  • Strategically creating a parallel path is not an easy thing to do.
  • Some tips for establishing yourself in the design industry as a recognized expert.
  • What it takes for an opportunity to get on TV.
  • TV really doesn't pay as much as you would expect.
  • How to be comfortable in front of the camera.
  • About Nicole's exciting new endeavor that came to fruition in 2018.
  • Nicole really wanted to disrupt an industry and do something that could help people solve a problem.
  • Nicole's 'aha' moment.
  • How Nicole has done to simplify the color palette.
  • The way that Nicole helps people with their color choice.
  • Nicole's product descriptions really help you to understand what the color will feel like.
  • About the features of Clare's seamless to the trade program.
  • Nicole wants people to feel as safe as possible when using her paint products.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

High Point Market Spring 2019:

Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende and Jeanne Chung #406

Century Furniture with Carrier & Co #407

Visual Comfort with Lauren Rottet #408

Links:

Nicole's website: Clare

Article

If you are going to HP Spring 2019, please join LuAnn on Saturday, April 6th at 12 noon at the HPMKT Theater. She will be giving a keynote presentation followed by a book signing of her new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. This book is actually launching the week before at LuAnn's big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It’s About the Conversation. To learn more, go to Luann Nigara and click on live events.

]]> 2734 no 410: Design Biz Live: Business Can Be Thunderstorms and Chickens; Hard Truths, Hard Lessons Part 2 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/410-design-biz-live-business-can-be-thunderstorms-and-chickens-hard-truths-hard-lessons-part-2-0 Welcome to another episode of Design Biz Live! Corey Klassen and Judith Neary join us once again on the show today. During the summer of 2018, Corey and Judith both experienced shifts in their businesses which really tested them as business owners, entrepreneurs, and as interior designers. In the previous episode of Design Biz Live, we spoke about what Judith went through last summer and today, we're going to be talking about Corey's experience. Listen in to find out more! Things seemed to be going really well business-wise for Corey at the beginning of 2018. Then he experienced an unexpected shift in his business and he hit the ditch. Corey understands, however, that although change can be daunting, we still need to take responsibility for keeping a positive attitude. He knows that there are some really big problems out there in the world and it's important to recognize that our own problems are usually quite small in comparison. Tune in today to find out how Corey managed to take control, shift his mindset, lean into the change, and become the project manager of his life. Show highlights: Corey had a team of three, then, almost overnight, he was left with just himself. Corey views the shift in his business as an unexpected gift. The way that Corey adjusted his business to his best advantage. What Corey discovered about himself. Corey moved his home and his office in just two months. The major life-events that Corey experienced recently. The importance of staying on an even keel. Getting clear about his goals. Corey realized that he had to become the project manager of his life. You've got to dig in and own your stuff. Having the confidence to shift gears in his business. Making choices based on the quality of life that you want for yourself. It's hard to be a leader when you hit the ditch. The clarity that Corey gained from his difficult experience. You don't need a crisis to have a revelation about yourself. Finding the next level. Mistakes are your education. And owning your mistakes is vital. Listen to your inner voice. Links: Corey Klassen Interior Design Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio Previous episode of Design Biz Live Luann Nigara Fri, 08 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Design Biz Live! Corey Klassen and Judith Neary join us once again on the show today. During the summer of 2018, Corey and Judith both experienced shifts in their businesses which really tested them as business owners,... Welcome to another episode of Design Biz Live! Corey Klassen and Judith Neary join us once again on the show today. During the summer of 2018, Corey and Judith both experienced shifts in their businesses which really tested them as business owners, entrepreneurs, and as interior designers. In the previous episode of Design Biz Live, we spoke about what Judith went through last summer and today, we're going to be talking about Corey's experience. Listen in to find out more! Things seemed to be going really well business-wise for Corey at the beginning of 2018. Then he experienced an unexpected shift in his business and he hit the ditch. Corey understands, however, that although change can be daunting, we still need to take responsibility for keeping a positive attitude. He knows that there are some really big problems out there in the world and it's important to recognize that our own problems are usually quite small in comparison. Tune in today to find out how Corey managed to take control, shift his mindset, lean into the change, and become the project manager of his life. Show highlights: Corey had a team of three, then, almost overnight, he was left with just himself. Corey views the shift in his business as an unexpected gift. The way that Corey adjusted his business to his best advantage. What Corey discovered about himself. Corey moved his home and his office in just two months. The major life-events that Corey experienced recently. The importance of staying on an even keel. Getting clear about his goals. Corey realized that he had to become the project manager of his life. You've got to dig in and own your stuff. Having the confidence to shift gears in his business. Making choices based on the quality of life that you want for yourself. It's hard to be a leader when you hit the ditch. The clarity that Corey gained from his difficult experience. You don't need a crisis to have a revelation about yourself. Finding the next level. Mistakes are your education. And owning your mistakes is vital. Listen to your inner voice. Links: Corey Klassen Interior Design Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio Previous episode of Design Biz Live Luann Nigara Welcome to another episode of Design Biz Live! Corey Klassen and Judith Neary join us once again on the show today. During the summer of 2018, Corey and Judith both experienced shifts in their businesses which really tested them as business owners, entrepreneurs, and as interior designers. In the previous episode of Design Biz Live, we spoke about what Judith went through last summer and today, we're going to be talking about Corey's experience. Listen in to find out more!

Things seemed to be going really well business-wise for Corey at the beginning of 2018. Then he experienced an unexpected shift in his business and he hit the ditch. Corey understands, however, that although change can be daunting, we still need to take responsibility for keeping a positive attitude. He knows that there are some really big problems out there in the world and it's important to recognize that our own problems are usually quite small in comparison. Tune in today to find out how Corey managed to take control, shift his mindset, lean into the change, and become the project manager of his life.

Show highlights:

  • Corey had a team of three, then, almost overnight, he was left with just himself.
  • Corey views the shift in his business as an unexpected gift.
  • The way that Corey adjusted his business to his best advantage.
  • What Corey discovered about himself.
  • Corey moved his home and his office in just two months.
  • The major life-events that Corey experienced recently.
  • The importance of staying on an even keel.
  • Getting clear about his goals.
  • Corey realized that he had to become the project manager of his life.
  • You've got to dig in and own your stuff.
  • Having the confidence to shift gears in his business.
  • Making choices based on the quality of life that you want for yourself.
  • It's hard to be a leader when you hit the ditch.
  • The clarity that Corey gained from his difficult experience.
  • You don't need a crisis to have a revelation about yourself.
  • Finding the next level.
  • Mistakes are your education. And owning your mistakes is vital.
  • Listen to your inner voice.

Links:

Corey Klassen Interior Design

Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio

Previous episode of Design Biz Live Luann Nigara

]]> 4035 no 409: Candy Scott & Rachel Cannon: Interior Design is a Service Business Not a Commodity Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/408-candy-scott-rachel-cannon-interior-design-is-a-service-business-not-a-commodity-business Welcome to today's show! We are really happy today to have Candy Scott and Rachel Cannon join us on the show! In today's episode, these two smart ladies will be talking to LuAnn about the changing landscape in the business side of interior design. Candy and Rachel are both highly organized, with finite systems in place for running their businesses and they truly understand that you really need to know and sell your own value, as a designer, rather than the value of the products that you specify. Listen in, to find out what they have to share with you on the show today. Candy is the principal of Mood Design and Build, which is located in Chicago. She has won multiple awards during her seventeen-year career in designer and she's worked with large developers and corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominium lobbies, club rooms, and model showrooms. Rachel is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has clients from Palm Springs to Palm Beach, with over fifteen years of experience in residential and commercial interior design. She opened her own firm, Rachel Cannon Interiors nine years ago and her work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV, My Domain.Com, and Southern Home. Tune in now! Both Rachel and Candy are going to be at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. Show highlights: Business disruptions are not a new thing. The future of the interior designer with the disruptive emergence of products being available online to the consumer. Being a designer is not just about selling merchandise- it's so much more about the relationship. As designers, you need to be the innovators! Why you have to start charging for your services. If you make your money on a flat fee, you don't have to focus on selling furniture. Creating tracking documents for orders. Surviving the changes in the industry. The layer of service that Candy has added to her business, to really set it apart. The value of having the designer run the project. Rachel's ideas for designers to make money, going into the future. The middle end of the market is going to go away. Rachel's approach to design consult packages. The importance of branding. As an entrepreneur, you just have to be open to change. Some things to consider when creating your brand. Rachel Cannon is an interior designer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with clients ranging the nation from Palm Springs to Palm Beach. She has over 15 years of experience in residential and commercial interior design, nine of which are at her namesake interior design firm, Rachel Cannon Limited. Armed with a degree in interior design and a background in art history, Rachel joins together classic principles with a decidedly contemporary tone. She provides her clients with sophisticated interiors that exude an effortless combination of subtle color, rich architectural detail, and a beguiling mix of livable, tailored and luxe details. With a clientele of professionals and families with demanding schedules, Rachel is most praised for her ability to simplify the interior design process while paying meticulous attention to planning and detail. The finished product: a livable yet polished space the entire family can enjoy. Rachel's work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV.com, MyDomain.com and Southern Home. Her captivating wit and knowledge of art, design, and architecture have made her a favorite on television, radio, and podcasts. While always on the go, the Rachel Cannon Limited team is headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In 2014, Candy Scott founded MOOD Design and Build where she continues to work with residential clients, business owners, and development partners on their homes, offices, and commercial interiors. As a designer, Candy is most inspired and intrigued by the transformation process. Both for the people who inhabit the spaces and the physical spaces themselves. She believes bringing consciousness to our spaces greatly impacts the way we think, feel, and behave. Candy graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC with a Bachelor's of Science in Interior Design. Through the years, she has won multiple awards and has worked with large developers and corporate clients outfitting the high rise condominium lobbies, clubrooms, and model showrooms. She has worked with small to medium-sized businesses as well, transforming their lobbies and offices to places employees love to work. Previous shows mentioned on this episode: Candy #227 Rachel #306 Wendy Woluschuk #316 Links: Rachel Cannon - Rachel Cannon Limited Instagram: RCL Interiors Facebook: RCL Interiors Candy Scott Mood Design Build Instagram: Mood Design Build Facebook: Candy Scott LuAnn Nigara Live- It's About The Conversation - At the event, on the 30th and 31st March, in New Jersey, Candy will be paired with Fred Berns and they will be talking about How to Find Clients and Build Your Pipeline. Rachel will be paired with Sarah Daniele and they will be talking about Why Your Business Grows When you Establish Your Systems. Go to Luann Live to sign up for the event. To join LuAnn's facebook group, LuAnn Nigara & Friends  Go to Luann Nigara Book2 to see the cover of LuAnn's new book. Book mentioned in the show: Start With Why- How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Portfolio.     Tue, 05 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are really happy today to have Candy Scott and Rachel Cannon join us on the show! In today's episode, these two smart ladies will be talking to LuAnn about the changing landscape in the business side of interior design.... Welcome to today's show! We are really happy today to have Candy Scott and Rachel Cannon join us on the show! In today's episode, these two smart ladies will be talking to LuAnn about the changing landscape in the business side of interior design. Candy and Rachel are both highly organized, with finite systems in place for running their businesses and they truly understand that you really need to know and sell your own value, as a designer, rather than the value of the products that you specify. Listen in, to find out what they have to share with you on the show today. Candy is the principal of Mood Design and Build, which is located in Chicago. She has won multiple awards during her seventeen-year career in designer and she's worked with large developers and corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominium lobbies, club rooms, and model showrooms. Rachel is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has clients from Palm Springs to Palm Beach, with over fifteen years of experience in residential and commercial interior design. She opened her own firm, Rachel Cannon Interiors nine years ago and her work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV, My Domain.Com, and Southern Home. Tune in now! Both Rachel and Candy are going to be at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. Show highlights: Business disruptions are not a new thing. The future of the interior designer with the disruptive emergence of products being available online to the consumer. Being a designer is not just about selling merchandise- it's so much more about the relationship. As designers, you need to be the innovators! Why you have to start charging for your services. If you make your money on a flat fee, you don't have to focus on selling furniture. Creating tracking documents for orders. Surviving the changes in the industry. The layer of service that Candy has added to her business, to really set it apart. The value of having the designer run the project. Rachel's ideas for designers to make money, going into the future. The middle end of the market is going to go away. Rachel's approach to design consult packages. The importance of branding. As an entrepreneur, you just have to be open to change. Some things to consider when creating your brand. Rachel Cannon is an interior designer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with clients ranging the nation from Palm Springs to Palm Beach. She has over 15 years of experience in residential and commercial interior design, nine of which are at her namesake interior design firm, Rachel Cannon Limited. Armed with a degree in interior design and a background in art history, Rachel joins together classic principles with a decidedly contemporary tone. She provides her clients with sophisticated interiors that exude an effortless combination of subtle color, rich architectural detail, and a beguiling mix of livable, tailored and luxe details. With a clientele of professionals and families with demanding schedules, Rachel is most praised for her ability to simplify the interior design process while paying meticulous attention to planning and detail. The finished product: a livable yet polished space the entire family can enjoy. Rachel's work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV.com, MyDomain.com and Southern Home. Her captivating wit and knowledge of art, design, and architecture have made her a favorite on television, radio, and podcasts. While always on the go, the Rachel Cannon Limited team is headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In 2014, Candy Scott founded MOOD Design and Build where she continues to work with residential clients, business owners, and development partners on their homes, offices, and commercial interiors. As a designer, Candy is most inspired and intrigued by the transformation process. Both for the people who inhabit the spaces and the physical spaces themselves. She believes bringing consciousness to our spaces greatly impacts the way we think, feel, and behave. Candy graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC with a Bachelor's of Science in Interior Design. Through the years, she has won multiple awards and has worked with large developers and corporate clients outfitting the high rise condominium lobbies, clubrooms, and model showrooms. She has worked with small to medium-sized businesses as well, transforming their lobbies and offices to places employees love to work. Previous shows mentioned on this episode: Candy #227 Rachel #306 Wendy Woluschuk #316 Links: Rachel Cannon - Rachel Cannon Limited Instagram: RCL Interiors Facebook: RCL Interiors Candy Scott Mood Design Build Instagram: Mood Design Build Facebook: Candy Scott LuAnn Nigara Live- It's About The Conversation - At the event, on the 30th and 31st March, in New Jersey, Candy will be paired with Fred Berns and they will be talking about How to Find Clients and Build Your Pipeline. Rachel will be paired with Sarah Daniele and they will be talking about Why Your Business Grows When you Establish Your Systems. Go to Luann Live to sign up for the event. To join LuAnn's facebook group, LuAnn Nigara & Friends  Go to Luann Nigara Book2 to see the cover of LuAnn's new book. Book mentioned in the show: Start With Why- How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Portfolio.     Welcome to today's show! We are really happy today to have Candy Scott and Rachel Cannon join us on the show! In today's episode, these two smart ladies will be talking to LuAnn about the changing landscape in the business side of interior design. Candy and Rachel are both highly organized, with finite systems in place for running their businesses and they truly understand that you really need to know and sell your own value, as a designer, rather than the value of the products that you specify. Listen in, to find out what they have to share with you on the show today.

Candy is the principal of Mood Design and Build, which is located in Chicago. She has won multiple awards during her seventeen-year career in designer and she's worked with large developers and corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominium lobbies, club rooms, and model showrooms.

Rachel is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has clients from Palm Springs to Palm Beach, with over fifteen years of experience in residential and commercial interior design. She opened her own firm, Rachel Cannon Interiors nine years ago and her work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV, My Domain.Com, and Southern Home. Tune in now!

Both Rachel and Candy are going to be at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation.

Show highlights:

  • Business disruptions are not a new thing.
  • The future of the interior designer with the disruptive emergence of products being available online to the consumer.
  • Being a designer is not just about selling merchandise- it's so much more about the relationship.
  • As designers, you need to be the innovators!
  • Why you have to start charging for your services.
  • If you make your money on a flat fee, you don't have to focus on selling furniture.
  • Creating tracking documents for orders.
  • Surviving the changes in the industry.
  • The layer of service that Candy has added to her business, to really set it apart.
  • The value of having the designer run the project.
  • Rachel's ideas for designers to make money, going into the future.
  • The middle end of the market is going to go away.
  • Rachel's approach to design consult packages.
  • The importance of branding.
  • As an entrepreneur, you just have to be open to change.
  • Some things to consider when creating your brand.

Rachel Cannon is an interior designer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with clients ranging the nation from Palm Springs to Palm Beach. She has over 15 years of experience in residential and commercial interior design, nine of which are at her namesake interior design firm, Rachel Cannon Limited. Armed with a degree in interior design and a background in art history, Rachel joins together classic principles with a decidedly contemporary tone. She provides her clients with sophisticated interiors that exude an effortless combination of subtle color, rich architectural detail, and a beguiling mix of livable, tailored and luxe details. With a clientele of professionals and families with demanding schedules, Rachel is most praised for her ability to simplify the interior design process while paying meticulous attention to planning and detail. The finished product: a livable yet polished space the entire family can enjoy. Rachel's work has been featured in Traditional Home, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV.com, MyDomain.com and Southern Home. Her captivating wit and knowledge of art, design, and architecture have made her a favorite on television, radio, and podcasts. While always on the go, the Rachel Cannon Limited team is headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

In 2014, Candy Scott founded MOOD Design and Build where she continues to work with residential clients, business owners, and development partners on their homes, offices, and commercial interiors. As a designer, Candy is most inspired and intrigued by the transformation process. Both for the people who inhabit the spaces and the physical spaces themselves. She believes bringing consciousness to our spaces greatly impacts the way we think, feel, and behave.

Candy graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC with a Bachelor's of Science in Interior Design. Through the years, she has won multiple awards and has worked with large developers and corporate clients outfitting the high rise condominium lobbies, clubrooms, and model showrooms. She has worked with small to medium-sized businesses as well, transforming their lobbies and offices to places employees love to work.

Previous shows mentioned on this episode:

Candy #227

Rachel #306

Wendy Woluschuk #316

Links:

Rachel Cannon -

Rachel Cannon Limited

Instagram: RCL Interiors

Facebook: RCL Interiors

Candy Scott

Mood Design Build

Instagram: Mood Design Build

Facebook: Candy Scott

LuAnn Nigara Live- It's About The Conversation - At the event, on the 30th and 31st March, in New Jersey, Candy will be paired with Fred Berns and they will be talking about How to Find Clients and Build Your Pipeline. Rachel will be paired with Sarah Daniele and they will be talking about Why Your Business Grows When you Establish Your Systems. Go to Luann Live to sign up for the event.

To join LuAnn's facebook group, LuAnn Nigara & Friends 

Go to Luann Nigara Book2 to see the cover of LuAnn's new book.

Book mentioned in the show: Start With Why- How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Portfolio.  

 

]]> 3146 no 408: Power Talk Friday: Visual Comfort & Rottet Studio Launch New Line at High Point Market 2019 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/407-power-talk-friday-visual-comfort-rottet-studio-launch-new-line-at-high-point-market-2019 Welcome to our third sponsored show for High Point Market April 2019, brought to you by Visual Comfort and Co., and featuring the new product launch designed by today's guest, Lauren Rottet. Lauren is one of the most-celebrated interior architects in the world today, with an extraordinary record of awards, publications, lectures, juries, and honors. We are really delighted to have this dynamic, innovative entrepreneur on the show with us! In today's episode, she will be talking about her career, her lessons learned, and about her latest endeavor, the stunning lighting line she has designed for Visual Comfort and Co. Tune in now! Visual Comfort and Company is located in Houston Texas, and they have been the premier source for signature designer lighting since 1997. For more than 30 years, Visual Comfort and Company has collaborated with some of the most influential and iconic designers in the industry to produce lighting using natural materials of exceptional quality and distinctive hand-applied living finishes. Visual Comfort is proud to offer the industry’s widest range of incomparable lighting choices of extraordinary quality at a remarkable value. Previous collections have been designed by design greats including Alexa Hampton, Thomas O’Brien, Kelly Wearstler, and John Roselli among others. Lauren is the only woman in history to be elevated to Fellow status by both the American Institute of Architects and International Interior Design Association. She also holds the coveted titles of Interior Design Hall of Fame and Interiors (now Contract) Designer of the Year and she is a Lifetime Appointee to the U.S. General Services Administration’s National Register of Peer Professionals for Design Excellence. In 2006, she was inducted as an Inaugural Member of the Women in Design Hall of Fame. In 2012, she was named Boutique Design Designer of the Year. In 2014, Lauren was inducted into Hospitality Design magazine’s legendary Platinum Circle, the magazine’s highest honor for design professionals. Her furniture and product designs have earned her four gold medals for Best of NeoCon as well as a Chicago Athenaeum Award. Listen in to hear what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Lauren talks about her firm, how they started out, and how they got to where they are now. Hotels specifically budget for regular renovations. The way that Lauren practices diversification in her business. Designing for ocean and river cruisers. The way that Lauren's team was educated about designing for ships and cruise liners. Everyone in Lauren's office works on all the different kinds of projects. It takes a lot of homework to make a project successful. Creating the brochure for Viking. Breaking into a new market with hospitality. Lauren talks about her new venture with Visual Comfort. Lauren has always been fascinated by glass. She has been designing product for about thirty years. So much has opened up recently with new technology in lighting. Visual Comfort doesn't skimp on quality! How Lauren's relationship with Visual Comfort came about. The creation of a light, from design to manufacture. Lauren tells us where and when we're going to get to see her at High Point Market. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Sue Firestone #404 Links: Website: Rottet Studio Twitter: Rottet Studio Instagram: Rottet Studio Visual Comfort: Visual Comfort Fri, 01 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to our third sponsored show for High Point Market April 2019, brought to you by Visual Comfort and Co., and featuring the new product launch designed by today's guest, Lauren Rottet. Lauren is one of the most-celebrated interior architects in... Welcome to our third sponsored show for High Point Market April 2019, brought to you by Visual Comfort and Co., and featuring the new product launch designed by today's guest, Lauren Rottet. Lauren is one of the most-celebrated interior architects in the world today, with an extraordinary record of awards, publications, lectures, juries, and honors. We are really delighted to have this dynamic, innovative entrepreneur on the show with us! In today's episode, she will be talking about her career, her lessons learned, and about her latest endeavor, the stunning lighting line she has designed for Visual Comfort and Co. Tune in now! Visual Comfort and Company is located in Houston Texas, and they have been the premier source for signature designer lighting since 1997. For more than 30 years, Visual Comfort and Company has collaborated with some of the most influential and iconic designers in the industry to produce lighting using natural materials of exceptional quality and distinctive hand-applied living finishes. Visual Comfort is proud to offer the industry’s widest range of incomparable lighting choices of extraordinary quality at a remarkable value. Previous collections have been designed by design greats including Alexa Hampton, Thomas O’Brien, Kelly Wearstler, and John Roselli among others. Lauren is the only woman in history to be elevated to Fellow status by both the American Institute of Architects and International Interior Design Association. She also holds the coveted titles of Interior Design Hall of Fame and Interiors (now Contract) Designer of the Year and she is a Lifetime Appointee to the U.S. General Services Administration’s National Register of Peer Professionals for Design Excellence. In 2006, she was inducted as an Inaugural Member of the Women in Design Hall of Fame. In 2012, she was named Boutique Design Designer of the Year. In 2014, Lauren was inducted into Hospitality Design magazine’s legendary Platinum Circle, the magazine’s highest honor for design professionals. Her furniture and product designs have earned her four gold medals for Best of NeoCon as well as a Chicago Athenaeum Award. Listen in to hear what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Lauren talks about her firm, how they started out, and how they got to where they are now. Hotels specifically budget for regular renovations. The way that Lauren practices diversification in her business. Designing for ocean and river cruisers. The way that Lauren's team was educated about designing for ships and cruise liners. Everyone in Lauren's office works on all the different kinds of projects. It takes a lot of homework to make a project successful. Creating the brochure for Viking. Breaking into a new market with hospitality. Lauren talks about her new venture with Visual Comfort. Lauren has always been fascinated by glass. She has been designing product for about thirty years. So much has opened up recently with new technology in lighting. Visual Comfort doesn't skimp on quality! How Lauren's relationship with Visual Comfort came about. The creation of a light, from design to manufacture. Lauren tells us where and when we're going to get to see her at High Point Market. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Sue Firestone #404 Links: Website: Rottet Studio Twitter: Rottet Studio Instagram: Rottet Studio Visual Comfort: Visual Comfort Welcome to our third sponsored show for High Point Market April 2019, brought to you by Visual Comfort and Co., and featuring the new product launch designed by today's guest, Lauren Rottet. Lauren is one of the most-celebrated interior architects in the world today, with an extraordinary record of awards, publications, lectures, juries, and honors. We are really delighted to have this dynamic, innovative entrepreneur on the show with us! In today's episode, she will be talking about her career, her lessons learned, and about her latest endeavor, the stunning lighting line she has designed for Visual Comfort and Co. Tune in now!

Visual Comfort and Company is located in Houston Texas, and they have been the premier source for signature designer lighting since 1997. For more than 30 years, Visual Comfort and Company has collaborated with some of the most influential and iconic designers in the industry to produce lighting using natural materials of exceptional quality and distinctive hand-applied living finishes. Visual Comfort is proud to offer the industry’s widest range of incomparable lighting choices of extraordinary quality at a remarkable value. Previous collections have been designed by design greats including Alexa Hampton, Thomas O’Brien, Kelly Wearstler, and John Roselli among others.

Lauren is the only woman in history to be elevated to Fellow status by both the American Institute of Architects and International Interior Design Association. She also holds the coveted titles of Interior Design Hall of Fame and Interiors (now Contract) Designer of the Year and she is a Lifetime Appointee to the U.S. General Services Administration’s National Register of Peer Professionals for Design Excellence. In 2006, she was inducted as an Inaugural Member of the Women in Design Hall of Fame. In 2012, she was named Boutique Design Designer of the Year. In 2014, Lauren was inducted into Hospitality Design magazine’s legendary Platinum Circle, the magazine’s highest honor for design professionals. Her furniture and product designs have earned her four gold medals for Best of NeoCon as well as a Chicago Athenaeum Award. Listen in to hear what she has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Lauren talks about her firm, how they started out, and how they got to where they are now.
  • Hotels specifically budget for regular renovations.
  • The way that Lauren practices diversification in her business.
  • Designing for ocean and river cruisers.
  • The way that Lauren's team was educated about designing for ships and cruise liners.
  • Everyone in Lauren's office works on all the different kinds of projects.
  • It takes a lot of homework to make a project successful.
  • Creating the brochure for Viking.
  • Breaking into a new market with hospitality.
  • Lauren talks about her new venture with Visual Comfort.
  • Lauren has always been fascinated by glass.
  • She has been designing product for about thirty years.
  • So much has opened up recently with new technology in lighting.
  • Visual Comfort doesn't skimp on quality!
  • How Lauren's relationship with Visual Comfort came about.
  • The creation of a light, from design to manufacture.
  • Lauren tells us where and when we're going to get to see her at High Point Market.

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

Sue Firestone #404

Links:

Website: Rottet Studio

Twitter: Rottet Studio

Instagram: Rottet Studio

Visual Comfort: Visual Comfort

]]> 2896 no 407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/century-furniture-and-carrier-company-launch-new-line-at-high-point-market-april-2019 This show is sponsored by my friends at Century Furniture and features the design team from Carrier and Company Interiors located here in NYC.  Century Furniture is one of the world's largest privately-owned manufacturers of high-end residential furniture. Founded in Hickory, North Carolina in 1947 by Harley F. Shuford, Sr., Century is now in the third generation of family ownership and operation and remains committed to their founder’s ideal, to create furniture of such impeccable quality that it brings joy not only to the people who own it, but also to the craftspeople who build it.  Show Highlights: Craftsmanship is their expertise They have furniture for all rooms The company is located in Hickory, NC Century has state-of-the-art woodworking facilities They met at FIT 10 years ago They've been inside the homes of society's most elite Their best-selling book, Carrier and Company: Positively Chic Interiors The inspirations for their designs Their thoughts on success in this industry   Links: Website - www.carrierandcompany.com  Book - https://amzn.to/2IBQBOO Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carrierandco/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carrierandco Century Furniture - https://www.centuryfurniture.com/century-furniture-designers.aspx?d=carrier   Thu, 28 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full 407 LuAnn Nigara This show is sponsored by my friends at Century Furniture and features the design team from Carrier and Company Interiors located here in NYC.  Century Furniture is one of the world's largest privately-owned manufacturers of high-end residential... This show is sponsored by my friends at Century Furniture and features the design team from Carrier and Company Interiors located here in NYC.  Century Furniture is one of the world's largest privately-owned manufacturers of high-end residential furniture. Founded in Hickory, North Carolina in 1947 by Harley F. Shuford, Sr., Century is now in the third generation of family ownership and operation and remains committed to their founder’s ideal, to create furniture of such impeccable quality that it brings joy not only to the people who own it, but also to the craftspeople who build it.  Show Highlights: Craftsmanship is their expertise They have furniture for all rooms The company is located in Hickory, NC Century has state-of-the-art woodworking facilities They met at FIT 10 years ago They've been inside the homes of society's most elite Their best-selling book, Carrier and Company: Positively Chic Interiors The inspirations for their designs Their thoughts on success in this industry   Links: Website - www.carrierandcompany.com  Book - https://amzn.to/2IBQBOO Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carrierandco/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carrierandco Century Furniture - https://www.centuryfurniture.com/century-furniture-designers.aspx?d=carrier   This show is sponsored by my friends at Century Furniture and features the design team from Carrier and Company Interiors located here in NYC. 

Century Furniture is one of the world's largest privately-owned manufacturers of high-end residential furniture. Founded in Hickory, North Carolina in 1947 by Harley F. Shuford, Sr., Century is now in the third generation of family ownership and operation and remains committed to their founder’s ideal, to create furniture of such impeccable quality that it brings joy not only to the people who own it, but also to the craftspeople who build it. 

Show Highlights:

  • Craftsmanship is their expertise
  • They have furniture for all rooms
  • The company is located in Hickory, NC
  • Century has state-of-the-art woodworking facilities
  • They met at FIT 10 years ago
  • They've been inside the homes of society's most elite
  • Their best-selling book, Carrier and Company: Positively Chic Interiors
  • The inspirations for their designs
  • Their thoughts on success in this industry

 

Links: Website - www.carrierandcompany.com  Book - https://amzn.to/2IBQBOO Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carrierandco/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carrierandco Century Furniture - https://www.centuryfurniture.com/century-furniture-designers.aspx?d=carrier

 

]]> 3286 no 406: An Insider's View Into High Point Market with Lisa Mende, Jeanne Chung, and Ashley Grigg http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/406-an-insiders-view-into-high-point-market-with-lisa-mende-jeanne-chung-and-ashley-grigg Welcome to this week's special sponsored series! Today we're featuring High Point Market, Spring 2019. LuAnn often gets emails from designers asking about High Point- whether or not it's a good idea to go, and what to do when you get there if you've never been before. Her answer is always 'go, but not without a plan'. Going to High Point without first establishing an objective for going there can really be a waste of your time and money. On the show today we have Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende, and Jeanne Chung and they will be talking about the logistics of going to High Point. They will also be giving us some really useful information about the various tours available and they will also explain how to become a prestigious High Point Style Spotter. Tune in today, to get the best tips for making your trip to High Point really productive. In today's episode, you will hear High Point Market referred to as Disneyland for Designers. It really is an awesome experience! The market is comprised of 11,500,000 square feet of building after building of gorgeous furniture, rugs, art, lighting, accessories, with the added opportunity for you to meet many of the owners and execs of the brands you work with. Top it all off with a chance to meet some colleagues you may have only known before through Facebook or Instagram and you will have truly energizing experience that will really benefit your business! Listen in to find out more! Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashly has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South's Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog "The Design Connector" where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers. Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter. Show highlights: Why interior designers should really invest the time and money in going to High Point Market. High Point is a really energizing experience! Half the business is conducted after the market is over! The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people. The way that High Point has impacted on Jeanne's business. What it took for Jeanne to become an official Style Spotter for High Point Market. Keeping abreast with current trends at High Point. It's really worthwhile making your application to become a Style Spotter. The criteria for becoming a Style Spotter. How being a Style Spotter really helped Lisa make connections with brands and PR people. It really takes a lot of work to be a High Point Style Spotter. How High Point Market stands out from all the rest. Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners. Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms. The larger showrooms require you to make an appointment. Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market. Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point. High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet! Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind. Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point. The Style Spotters are expanding beyond the Twitter chat. They will be dropping content on all the social media channels throughout an entire week, called Inspiration Week. (You can go back and check all the content on their Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.) Starting March 4th, everybody will be encouraged to look at the new product pics portion of the High Point website, to see all the exhibitors' new products that are coming to market. There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market. All the great discussions that will be happening at the Spring Market. Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market. Links: High Point Market High Point Market Facebook: HPMKT Twitter: HP Market News Instagram: High Point Market Email: info@highpointmarket.org Phone:  336 869 1000 To download the app CamCard: CamCard Use the hashtags #HPMKT and #HPMKTInspired, when you put out on your social media channels what you're excited to see at Spring Market. Tue, 26 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this week's special sponsored series! Today we're featuring High Point Market, Spring 2019. LuAnn often gets emails from designers asking about High Point- whether or not it's a good idea to go, and what to do when you get there if you've... Welcome to this week's special sponsored series! Today we're featuring High Point Market, Spring 2019. LuAnn often gets emails from designers asking about High Point- whether or not it's a good idea to go, and what to do when you get there if you've never been before. Her answer is always 'go, but not without a plan'. Going to High Point without first establishing an objective for going there can really be a waste of your time and money. On the show today we have Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende, and Jeanne Chung and they will be talking about the logistics of going to High Point. They will also be giving us some really useful information about the various tours available and they will also explain how to become a prestigious High Point Style Spotter. Tune in today, to get the best tips for making your trip to High Point really productive. In today's episode, you will hear High Point Market referred to as Disneyland for Designers. It really is an awesome experience! The market is comprised of 11,500,000 square feet of building after building of gorgeous furniture, rugs, art, lighting, accessories, with the added opportunity for you to meet many of the owners and execs of the brands you work with. Top it all off with a chance to meet some colleagues you may have only known before through Facebook or Instagram and you will have truly energizing experience that will really benefit your business! Listen in to find out more! Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashly has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South's Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog "The Design Connector" where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers. Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter. Show highlights: Why interior designers should really invest the time and money in going to High Point Market. High Point is a really energizing experience! Half the business is conducted after the market is over! The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people. The way that High Point has impacted on Jeanne's business. What it took for Jeanne to become an official Style Spotter for High Point Market. Keeping abreast with current trends at High Point. It's really worthwhile making your application to become a Style Spotter. The criteria for becoming a Style Spotter. How being a Style Spotter really helped Lisa make connections with brands and PR people. It really takes a lot of work to be a High Point Style Spotter. How High Point Market stands out from all the rest. Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners. Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms. The larger showrooms require you to make an appointment. Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market. Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point. High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet! Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind. Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point. The Style Spotters are expanding beyond the Twitter chat. They will be dropping content on all the social media channels throughout an entire week, called Inspiration Week. (You can go back and check all the content on their Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.) Starting March 4th, everybody will be encouraged to look at the new product pics portion of the High Point website, to see all the exhibitors' new products that are coming to market. There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market. All the great discussions that will be happening at the Spring Market. Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market. Links: High Point Market High Point Market Facebook: HPMKT Twitter: HP Market News Instagram: High Point Market Email: info@highpointmarket.org Phone:  336 869 1000 To download the app CamCard: CamCard Use the hashtags #HPMKT and #HPMKTInspired, when you put out on your social media channels what you're excited to see at Spring Market. Welcome to this week's special sponsored series! Today we're featuring High Point Market, Spring 2019. LuAnn often gets emails from designers asking about High Point- whether or not it's a good idea to go, and what to do when you get there if you've never been before. Her answer is always 'go, but not without a plan'. Going to High Point without first establishing an objective for going there can really be a waste of your time and money. On the show today we have Ashley Grigg, Lisa Mende, and Jeanne Chung and they will be talking about the logistics of going to High Point. They will also be giving us some really useful information about the various tours available and they will also explain how to become a prestigious High Point Style Spotter. Tune in today, to get the best tips for making your trip to High Point really productive.

In today's episode, you will hear High Point Market referred to as Disneyland for Designers. It really is an awesome experience! The market is comprised of 11,500,000 square feet of building after building of gorgeous furniture, rugs, art, lighting, accessories, with the added opportunity for you to meet many of the owners and execs of the brands you work with. Top it all off with a chance to meet some colleagues you may have only known before through Facebook or Instagram and you will have truly energizing experience that will really benefit your business! Listen in to find out more!

Ashley Grigg is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the High Point Market Authority. High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world and Ashley manages many of their projects, including media relations, educational programming, social media, and digital promotions. Ashly has over 13 years of experience in marketing and event management

Lisa Mende is the founder and principal of Lisa Mende Design based in Charlotte, NC which opened in 1998. She has built a reputation as one of the South's Leading Luxury Designers and her work has been featured in many well-known national shelter and lifestyle magazines. As a designer and tastemaker, Lisa works with Brands and has served as a #Authlux Design Guild Member for House of Rohl for 2018, The Thermador Design Council and the Design Council for DSV Luxury in 2016. Lisa is an Allied Member of ASID and NKBA. She also pens the popular blog "The Design Connector" where she is currently kicking off a new series which will chronicle the renovation of her own home sharing all her favorite kitchen and bath products and as well as the renovation process with her readers.

Jeanne Chung is a luxury interior designer and retailer based in Southern California. In addition to heading up her own interior design firm, Jeanne owns a retail and to the trade showroom in Pasadena, CA which has become a favorite go-to destination for both designers and design enthusiasts who seek a unique and artfully edited selection of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.  Through her design blog Cozy Stylish Chic, Jeanne has become recognized as an influencer in the industry and frequently collaborates with brands and manufacturers. She is a regular speaker on trade show designer panels and has served as a High Point Market Style Spotter. Jeanne participated in the Pasadena Showcase House of Design in 2017 and in 2018, served on the Board of the ASID Pasadena Chapter.

Show highlights:

  • Why interior designers should really invest the time and money in going to High Point Market.
  • High Point is a really energizing experience!
  • Half the business is conducted after the market is over!
  • The brand cocktail parties are awesome opportunities to meet and connect with important people.
  • The way that High Point has impacted on Jeanne's business.
  • What it took for Jeanne to become an official Style Spotter for High Point Market.
  • Keeping abreast with current trends at High Point.
  • It's really worthwhile making your application to become a Style Spotter.
  • The criteria for becoming a Style Spotter.
  • How being a Style Spotter really helped Lisa make connections with brands and PR people.
  • It really takes a lot of work to be a High Point Style Spotter.
  • How High Point Market stands out from all the rest.
  • Having the opportunity to talk to the showroom owners.
  • Ways for new designers to establish themselves with the various showrooms. The larger showrooms require you to make an appointment.
  • Some things to think about when pre-planning your trip to High Point Market.
  • Why it's a good idea to do a tour for your first trip to High Point.
  • High Point Market covers 11 500 000 square feet!
  • Jeanne talks about her Insider's Tour, which is geared towards designers seeking to offer customization and one-of-a-kind.
  • Ashley talks about all the other tours that are also available for buyers at High Point. The relevant information about all the tours is available on the High Point Market authority website. High Point Market
  • Some tips for making sure that you are able to connect with the right people at High Point.
  • The Style Spotters are expanding beyond the Twitter chat. They will be dropping content on all the social media channels throughout an entire week, called Inspiration Week. (You can go back and check all the content on their Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.)
  • Starting March 4th, everybody will be encouraged to look at the new product pics portion of the High Point website, to see all the exhibitors' new products that are coming to market.
  • There is an incredible Market Advisor Team available for you to call to answer any questions you may have prior to arriving at HP. They will also be available during the market.
  • All the great discussions that will be happening at the Spring Market.
  • Lisa's great tips and suggestions for getting ready for market.

Links:

High Point Market

High Point Market

Facebook: HPMKT

Twitter: HP Market News

Instagram: High Point Market

Email: info@highpointmarket.org

Phone:  336 869 1000

To download the app CamCard: CamCard

Use the hashtags #HPMKT and #HPMKTInspired, when you put out on your social media channels what you're excited to see at Spring Market.

]]> 4871 no 405: Power Talk Friday: The Who’s Who of LuAnn Nigara Live http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/405-power-talk-friday-the-whos-who-of-luann-nigara-live Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today we're going tease you by sharing all the details that are coming together for LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation. In today's episode, you will hear about LuAnn's co-authors, the awesome emcees for the event, the incredible line-up of sponsors of the show, and also the designer panelists who will be there with us for the entire weekend, for you to meet, talk to and connect with. Tune in now for all the details! LuAnn will be leading the rock star team of experts in twelve live discussions, just the way she does right here, on the podcast. And they will be together with everyone for meals, for breaks and for fun, with music, laughter, and working harder than you ever thought was possible in two days. More than 120 designers have registered for the event so far, and we really hope that you will decide to be excellent, and choose to join us there too! Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: All LuAnn's co-authors have already finalized their travel arrangements for the event! LuAnn runs through all the amazing people that are coming to spend two-and-a-half days at the event in New Jersey. Fred Burns is the single most repeated guest on A Well-Designed Business. Nancy Ganzekaufer is the lady who brought us Your Business in Words. Nicole Heymer is the voice of figuring out your brand. Michele Williams is the finance lady who teaches us how to stand up and take charge of our money. Sarah Daniele knows all about systems and organization for a well-run interior design firm. She created MyDoma Studio. Stacey Brown Randall is all about building, filling, and maximizing your pipeline through intention and purpose. Eileen Hahn knows how to create a really exceptional team. Kae Whitaker has her thumb on the heartbeat of digital marketing. Shauna Lynn Simon, home staging business coach, tells us that home staging is designing for selling, not designing for living. Mark McDonough is the Instagram guru and he is always dying to tell you about his latest discoveries. Peter Lang is the Designer CPA and he will help you to keep more of the money you work so hard to make. Claire Jefford is an interior designer, vlogging queen extraordinaire and a master at setting up your consult, your client agreements so that you are purposefully managing both your projects and your client’s expectations. The emcees for the event are Darla Powell, the principle of Darla Powell Interiors, and Natalie Graff. They host the Wingnut Social podcast together and they also own and operate Wingnut Social. The sponsor lineup includes Kravet, MyDoma Studio, Schwartz Designs Showroom, Merrill Landis, DesignerInc, Ashley Uhl Consulting, The WCAA, East End Interiors, Exciting Windows and Comfortex. The designer panelists who will be there for you to meet and talk with are Sandra Funk- House of Funk, NJ NY, Corey Damen Jenkins, Taylor Spellman, Paula Grace, Rachel Cannon, Candy Scott, Dala Al Fuwaires, Courtney McLeod, Keisha Franklin, and also Corey Klassen and Judith Neary of the Design Biz Live series. LuAnn will be leading the team in 12 live discussions, just like here, on the podcast. LuAnn really hopes that you will be there to join her and all the other outstanding people at the event! Links: To register for the event go to Luann Nigara Live Until March 4th you can still grab yourself 10% off any furniture order from Kravet and Lee Jofa. Use the code W710 at checkout. Fri, 22 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today we're going tease you by sharing all the details that are coming together for LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation. In today's episode, you will hear about LuAnn's co-authors, the... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today we're going tease you by sharing all the details that are coming together for LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation. In today's episode, you will hear about LuAnn's co-authors, the awesome emcees for the event, the incredible line-up of sponsors of the show, and also the designer panelists who will be there with us for the entire weekend, for you to meet, talk to and connect with. Tune in now for all the details! LuAnn will be leading the rock star team of experts in twelve live discussions, just the way she does right here, on the podcast. And they will be together with everyone for meals, for breaks and for fun, with music, laughter, and working harder than you ever thought was possible in two days. More than 120 designers have registered for the event so far, and we really hope that you will decide to be excellent, and choose to join us there too! Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: All LuAnn's co-authors have already finalized their travel arrangements for the event! LuAnn runs through all the amazing people that are coming to spend two-and-a-half days at the event in New Jersey. Fred Burns is the single most repeated guest on A Well-Designed Business. Nancy Ganzekaufer is the lady who brought us Your Business in Words. Nicole Heymer is the voice of figuring out your brand. Michele Williams is the finance lady who teaches us how to stand up and take charge of our money. Sarah Daniele knows all about systems and organization for a well-run interior design firm. She created MyDoma Studio. Stacey Brown Randall is all about building, filling, and maximizing your pipeline through intention and purpose. Eileen Hahn knows how to create a really exceptional team. Kae Whitaker has her thumb on the heartbeat of digital marketing. Shauna Lynn Simon, home staging business coach, tells us that home staging is designing for selling, not designing for living. Mark McDonough is the Instagram guru and he is always dying to tell you about his latest discoveries. Peter Lang is the Designer CPA and he will help you to keep more of the money you work so hard to make. Claire Jefford is an interior designer, vlogging queen extraordinaire and a master at setting up your consult, your client agreements so that you are purposefully managing both your projects and your client’s expectations. The emcees for the event are Darla Powell, the principle of Darla Powell Interiors, and Natalie Graff. They host the Wingnut Social podcast together and they also own and operate Wingnut Social. The sponsor lineup includes Kravet, MyDoma Studio, Schwartz Designs Showroom, Merrill Landis, DesignerInc, Ashley Uhl Consulting, The WCAA, East End Interiors, Exciting Windows and Comfortex. The designer panelists who will be there for you to meet and talk with are Sandra Funk- House of Funk, NJ NY, Corey Damen Jenkins, Taylor Spellman, Paula Grace, Rachel Cannon, Candy Scott, Dala Al Fuwaires, Courtney McLeod, Keisha Franklin, and also Corey Klassen and Judith Neary of the Design Biz Live series. LuAnn will be leading the team in 12 live discussions, just like here, on the podcast. LuAnn really hopes that you will be there to join her and all the other outstanding people at the event! Links: To register for the event go to Luann Nigara Live Until March 4th you can still grab yourself 10% off any furniture order from Kravet and Lee Jofa. Use the code W710 at checkout. Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Today we're going tease you by sharing all the details that are coming together for LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation. In today's episode, you will hear about LuAnn's co-authors, the awesome emcees for the event, the incredible line-up of sponsors of the show, and also the designer panelists who will be there with us for the entire weekend, for you to meet, talk to and connect with. Tune in now for all the details!

LuAnn will be leading the rock star team of experts in twelve live discussions, just the way she does right here, on the podcast. And they will be together with everyone for meals, for breaks and for fun, with music, laughter, and working harder than you ever thought was possible in two days. More than 120 designers have registered for the event so far, and we really hope that you will decide to be excellent, and choose to join us there too! Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • All LuAnn's co-authors have already finalized their travel arrangements for the event!
  • LuAnn runs through all the amazing people that are coming to spend two-and-a-half days at the event in New Jersey.
  • Fred Burns is the single most repeated guest on A Well-Designed Business.
  • Nancy Ganzekaufer is the lady who brought us Your Business in Words.
  • Nicole Heymer is the voice of figuring out your brand.
  • Michele Williams is the finance lady who teaches us how to stand up and take charge of our money.
  • Sarah Daniele knows all about systems and organization for a well-run interior design firm. She created MyDoma Studio.
  • Stacey Brown Randall is all about building, filling, and maximizing your pipeline through intention and purpose.
  • Eileen Hahn knows how to create a really exceptional team.
  • Kae Whitaker has her thumb on the heartbeat of digital marketing.
  • Shauna Lynn Simon, home staging business coach, tells us that home staging is designing for selling, not designing for living.
  • Mark McDonough is the Instagram guru and he is always dying to tell you about his latest discoveries.
  • Peter Lang is the Designer CPA and he will help you to keep more of the money you work so hard to make.
  • Claire Jefford is an interior designer, vlogging queen extraordinaire and a master at setting up your consult, your client agreements so that you are purposefully managing both your projects and your client’s expectations.
  • The emcees for the event are Darla Powell, the principle of Darla Powell Interiors, and Natalie Graff. They host the Wingnut Social podcast together and they also own and operate Wingnut Social.
  • The sponsor lineup includes Kravet, MyDoma Studio, Schwartz Designs Showroom, Merrill Landis, DesignerInc, Ashley Uhl Consulting, The WCAA, East End Interiors, Exciting Windows and Comfortex.
  • The designer panelists who will be there for you to meet and talk with are Sandra Funk- House of Funk, NJ NY, Corey Damen Jenkins, Taylor Spellman, Paula Grace, Rachel Cannon, Candy Scott, Dala Al Fuwaires, Courtney McLeod, Keisha Franklin, and also Corey Klassen and Judith Neary of the Design Biz Live series.
  • LuAnn will be leading the team in 12 live discussions, just like here, on the podcast.
  • LuAnn really hopes that you will be there to join her and all the other outstanding people at the event!

Links:

To register for the event go to Luann Nigara Live

Until March 4th you can still grab yourself 10% off any furniture order from Kravet and Lee Jofa. Use the code W710 at checkout.

]]> 1325 no 404: Sue Firestone: The Malibu Collection with Kravet Inc http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/404-sue-firestone-the-malibu-collection-with-kravet-inc Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are really excited to have Sue Firestone join us on the show today. Sue has a body of work that is truly impressive and the really happy news for all of us is that she has just launched her brand new fabric line for Kravet. One of the things that really stood out for LuAnn in Sue's bio is that she rose from her position as a designer for the firm Design 1, to become president of the very same firm in a relatively short period of time. There's a lot of really useful information in the way that she achieved that, that can help us, as business owners. Listen in now to find out about Sue and the organic way that she rose to success in the design industry. Sue Firestone has spent more than 35 years cultivating her personal passion for design. With a client list that features the world’s premier five and six-star hotels as well as an A-list residential clientele, Sue has become a tastemaker for those seeking the ultimate luxury lifestyle. In 1996, after nearly two decades leading Design 1, Sue turned her focus toward creating a boutique design firm, large enough to execute projects of a grand scale, yet personal enough to provide devoted and intimate attention to each client. The result was SFA Design. Today, Sue is also a designer for Kravet and A.Rudin, creating 70’s-inspired, bohemian fabrics and natural furniture that embody true Californian style. Sue is the recipient of more than two dozen awards, including the prestigious Platinum Circle Award as well as a position on Robb’s Report’s “Top 40 Best Designers in the World.” Tune in to now find out more.  Show highlights: How Sue inadvertently started out in the design industry. Sue talks about the things that she consciously did, as a hard-working designer, to become noticed in the industry. Because of the way that Sue was encouraged when she first started out in the design industry, she's always looking out for new talent to nurture in her company. Finding and honoring the proper place for each designer to really realize their full potential in a firm. Being attuned, listening, and reflecting has always been in Sue's blood. The importance of really listening carefully. Sue explains how visuals are a big part of her listening process and really helpful with getting to know her clients. Sue talks about her firm, Smith, Firestone and Associates Design, which started out in 1996. How Sue first started out with SFA Design. Sue's secret sauce for breaking into the luxury, high-end, exclusive residential market. About Sue's really effective organic method of marketing. Sue talks about The Malibu Collection, her recently launched new fabric line for Kravet, and how it came to be. Sue talks about her joyful experience of working with the Kravet team. Why you should always go beyond what is expected of you.  Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Joni Vanderslice #101 Eileen Hahn #363 Janelle Photopolous #364 Mabley Handler #173 Links: Sue's websites: Sue Firestone &  SFA Design Sue Firestone SF Cal Collection SFA Design Luann Nigara Live Kravet Tue, 19 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are really excited to have Sue Firestone join us on the show today. Sue has a body of work that is truly impressive and the really happy news for all of us is that she has just launched her... Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are really excited to have Sue Firestone join us on the show today. Sue has a body of work that is truly impressive and the really happy news for all of us is that she has just launched her brand new fabric line for Kravet. One of the things that really stood out for LuAnn in Sue's bio is that she rose from her position as a designer for the firm Design 1, to become president of the very same firm in a relatively short period of time. There's a lot of really useful information in the way that she achieved that, that can help us, as business owners. Listen in now to find out about Sue and the organic way that she rose to success in the design industry. Sue Firestone has spent more than 35 years cultivating her personal passion for design. With a client list that features the world’s premier five and six-star hotels as well as an A-list residential clientele, Sue has become a tastemaker for those seeking the ultimate luxury lifestyle. In 1996, after nearly two decades leading Design 1, Sue turned her focus toward creating a boutique design firm, large enough to execute projects of a grand scale, yet personal enough to provide devoted and intimate attention to each client. The result was SFA Design. Today, Sue is also a designer for Kravet and A.Rudin, creating 70’s-inspired, bohemian fabrics and natural furniture that embody true Californian style. Sue is the recipient of more than two dozen awards, including the prestigious Platinum Circle Award as well as a position on Robb’s Report’s “Top 40 Best Designers in the World.” Tune in to now find out more.  Show highlights: How Sue inadvertently started out in the design industry. Sue talks about the things that she consciously did, as a hard-working designer, to become noticed in the industry. Because of the way that Sue was encouraged when she first started out in the design industry, she's always looking out for new talent to nurture in her company. Finding and honoring the proper place for each designer to really realize their full potential in a firm. Being attuned, listening, and reflecting has always been in Sue's blood. The importance of really listening carefully. Sue explains how visuals are a big part of her listening process and really helpful with getting to know her clients. Sue talks about her firm, Smith, Firestone and Associates Design, which started out in 1996. How Sue first started out with SFA Design. Sue's secret sauce for breaking into the luxury, high-end, exclusive residential market. About Sue's really effective organic method of marketing. Sue talks about The Malibu Collection, her recently launched new fabric line for Kravet, and how it came to be. Sue talks about her joyful experience of working with the Kravet team. Why you should always go beyond what is expected of you.  Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Joni Vanderslice #101 Eileen Hahn #363 Janelle Photopolous #364 Mabley Handler #173 Links: Sue's websites: Sue Firestone &  SFA Design Sue Firestone SF Cal Collection SFA Design Luann Nigara Live Kravet Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are really excited to have Sue Firestone join us on the show today. Sue has a body of work that is truly impressive and the really happy news for all of us is that she has just launched her brand new fabric line for Kravet. One of the things that really stood out for LuAnn in Sue's bio is that she rose from her position as a designer for the firm Design 1, to become president of the very same firm in a relatively short period of time. There's a lot of really useful information in the way that she achieved that, that can help us, as business owners. Listen in now to find out about Sue and the organic way that she rose to success in the design industry.

Sue Firestone has spent more than 35 years cultivating her personal passion for design. With a client list that features the world’s premier five and six-star hotels as well as an A-list residential clientele, Sue has become a tastemaker for those seeking the ultimate luxury lifestyle.

In 1996, after nearly two decades leading Design 1, Sue turned her focus toward creating a boutique design firm, large enough to execute projects of a grand scale, yet personal enough to provide devoted and intimate attention to each client. The result was SFA Design. Today, Sue is also a designer for Kravet and A.Rudin, creating 70’s-inspired, bohemian fabrics and natural furniture that embody true Californian style.

Sue is the recipient of more than two dozen awards, including the prestigious Platinum Circle Award as well as a position on Robb’s Report’s “Top 40 Best Designers in the World.” Tune in to now find out more. 

Show highlights:

  • How Sue inadvertently started out in the design industry.
  • Sue talks about the things that she consciously did, as a hard-working designer, to become noticed in the industry.
  • Because of the way that Sue was encouraged when she first started out in the design industry, she's always looking out for new talent to nurture in her company.
  • Finding and honoring the proper place for each designer to really realize their full potential in a firm.
  • Being attuned, listening, and reflecting has always been in Sue's blood.
  • The importance of really listening carefully.
  • Sue explains how visuals are a big part of her listening process and really helpful with getting to know her clients.
  • Sue talks about her firm, Smith, Firestone and Associates Design, which started out in 1996.
  • How Sue first started out with SFA Design.
  • Sue's secret sauce for breaking into the luxury, high-end, exclusive residential market.
  • About Sue's really effective organic method of marketing.
  • Sue talks about The Malibu Collection, her recently launched new fabric line for Kravet, and how it came to be.
  • Sue talks about her joyful experience of working with the Kravet team.
  • Why you should always go beyond what is expected of you. 

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Joni Vanderslice #101

Eileen Hahn #363

Janelle Photopolous #364

Mabley Handler #173

Links:

Sue's websites: Sue Firestone &  SFA Design

Sue Firestone

SF Cal Collection

SFA Design

Luann Nigara Live

Kravet

]]> 3673 no 403: Power Talk Friday: Nathan Davis: Morgan Tap & Basin Founder http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/403-power-talk-friday-nathan-davis-morgan-tap-basin-founder Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by Morgan Tap and Basin and we have the founder, Nathan Davis, with us on the show. Morgan Tap and Basin is a family owned company who really understand the challenges that trades-people face when running a business. They are fully committed to offering quality, timely, and honest service to support you and your business. Listen in today as Nathan talks to LuAnn about the launch of Morgan Tap and Basin's new product, and their dedication, in both the quality of their product and the way that they are going for a strictly to the trade model. You're really going to enjoy this conversation! Morgan Tap and Basin offers unique sinks and faucets that you won't find anywhere else. Nathan, who is really passionate about what he is doing, comes from a background in stainless steel sheet metal fabrication and investment casting for the institutional plumbing industry. He saw an opportunity to make use of this knowledge and to bring a higher level of product quality and functionality to the residential market, by combining the best manufacturing processes and available materials with original designs. So, Morgan Tap and Basin was founded in 2017, with the goal of designing and crafting the most beautiful, functional, and durable residential sinks and faucets in the world. They strive- not to be the biggest manufacturer, nor offer the broadest selection, but to ensure that every product that they create is the very best of its kind. Nathan is the man to make this happen, so listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Nathan discusses the new products that he is bringing to be launched this month at KBIS trade show, in Las Vegas. What their new workstation sink comprises of. Nathan explains why he is so passionate about what he does. Nathan talks about growing up, studying law, and getting involved in their family's stainless steel business. Their company's goal is for everything that they produce to be the very best of its kind available. Nathan explains what goes into making the very best products. Design always comes first, then functionality, and finally durability. They use a very high grade, and a thicker than usual gauge of stainless steel to create sinks that really last long- even outdoors, or at the coast. The redesign of their website is to make sure that it's better tailored towards functionality for trade customers, who are all trade customers. Nathan walks us through their to the trade sales process. Their products can all be seen on their website and a sample of the finish of their products can be seen first-hand, prior to purchasing them. All their sinks have free shipping and also free return shipping, if necessary. Nathan talks about the hand-wrapped foam insulating material which is unique to their sinks. All their designs are original and they're all created in-house. They create products that could really help designers solve certain problems for their clients. Pictures really help to visually drive home the difference between quality products and inferior ones. Why it actually matters whereabout in the sink the drain is placed. For all the designers who are going to be at KBIS in Las Vegas, Nathan explains how to find where the Morgan Tap and Basin booth will be located. (It's booth # SL4725 in the South Hall, in the outer row, near to the KBIS Next Stage.) Nathan is always happy to get feedback on products and ideas and if you need something custom made, he will work that out with you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Revel woods #329 Announcements: Morgan Tap and Basin's product is launching at KBIS booth # SL4725 in the South Hall from the 19th to the 22nd of February. It's near to the KBIS Next Stage. LuAnn's panel discussion at KBIS is on Thursday, the 21st of February, at 9.30am. KBISNeXT Stage Speaker Landing Page-LuAnn Nigara Fri, 15 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by Morgan Tap and Basin and we have the founder, Nathan Davis, with us on the show. Morgan Tap and Basin is a family owned company who really understand the challenges that trades-people face... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by Morgan Tap and Basin and we have the founder, Nathan Davis, with us on the show. Morgan Tap and Basin is a family owned company who really understand the challenges that trades-people face when running a business. They are fully committed to offering quality, timely, and honest service to support you and your business. Listen in today as Nathan talks to LuAnn about the launch of Morgan Tap and Basin's new product, and their dedication, in both the quality of their product and the way that they are going for a strictly to the trade model. You're really going to enjoy this conversation! Morgan Tap and Basin offers unique sinks and faucets that you won't find anywhere else. Nathan, who is really passionate about what he is doing, comes from a background in stainless steel sheet metal fabrication and investment casting for the institutional plumbing industry. He saw an opportunity to make use of this knowledge and to bring a higher level of product quality and functionality to the residential market, by combining the best manufacturing processes and available materials with original designs. So, Morgan Tap and Basin was founded in 2017, with the goal of designing and crafting the most beautiful, functional, and durable residential sinks and faucets in the world. They strive- not to be the biggest manufacturer, nor offer the broadest selection, but to ensure that every product that they create is the very best of its kind. Nathan is the man to make this happen, so listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Nathan discusses the new products that he is bringing to be launched this month at KBIS trade show, in Las Vegas. What their new workstation sink comprises of. Nathan explains why he is so passionate about what he does. Nathan talks about growing up, studying law, and getting involved in their family's stainless steel business. Their company's goal is for everything that they produce to be the very best of its kind available. Nathan explains what goes into making the very best products. Design always comes first, then functionality, and finally durability. They use a very high grade, and a thicker than usual gauge of stainless steel to create sinks that really last long- even outdoors, or at the coast. The redesign of their website is to make sure that it's better tailored towards functionality for trade customers, who are all trade customers. Nathan walks us through their to the trade sales process. Their products can all be seen on their website and a sample of the finish of their products can be seen first-hand, prior to purchasing them. All their sinks have free shipping and also free return shipping, if necessary. Nathan talks about the hand-wrapped foam insulating material which is unique to their sinks. All their designs are original and they're all created in-house. They create products that could really help designers solve certain problems for their clients. Pictures really help to visually drive home the difference between quality products and inferior ones. Why it actually matters whereabout in the sink the drain is placed. For all the designers who are going to be at KBIS in Las Vegas, Nathan explains how to find where the Morgan Tap and Basin booth will be located. (It's booth # SL4725 in the South Hall, in the outer row, near to the KBIS Next Stage.) Nathan is always happy to get feedback on products and ideas and if you need something custom made, he will work that out with you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Revel woods #329 Announcements: Morgan Tap and Basin's product is launching at KBIS booth # SL4725 in the South Hall from the 19th to the 22nd of February. It's near to the KBIS Next Stage. LuAnn's panel discussion at KBIS is on Thursday, the 21st of February, at 9.30am. KBISNeXT Stage Speaker Landing Page-LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by Morgan Tap and Basin and we have the founder, Nathan Davis, with us on the show. Morgan Tap and Basin is a family owned company who really understand the challenges that trades-people face when running a business. They are fully committed to offering quality, timely, and honest service to support you and your business. Listen in today as Nathan talks to LuAnn about the launch of Morgan Tap and Basin's new product, and their dedication, in both the quality of their product and the way that they are going for a strictly to the trade model. You're really going to enjoy this conversation!

Morgan Tap and Basin offers unique sinks and faucets that you won't find anywhere else. Nathan, who is really passionate about what he is doing, comes from a background in stainless steel sheet metal fabrication and investment casting for the institutional plumbing industry. He saw an opportunity to make use of this knowledge and to bring a higher level of product quality and functionality to the residential market, by combining the best manufacturing processes and available materials with original designs. So, Morgan Tap and Basin was founded in 2017, with the goal of designing and crafting the most beautiful, functional, and durable residential sinks and faucets in the world. They strive- not to be the biggest manufacturer, nor offer the broadest selection, but to ensure that every product that they create is the very best of its kind. Nathan is the man to make this happen, so listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Nathan discusses the new products that he is bringing to be launched this month at KBIS trade show, in Las Vegas.
  • What their new workstation sink comprises of.
  • Nathan explains why he is so passionate about what he does.
  • Nathan talks about growing up, studying law, and getting involved in their family's stainless steel business.
  • Their company's goal is for everything that they produce to be the very best of its kind available.
  • Nathan explains what goes into making the very best products. Design always comes first, then functionality, and finally durability.
  • They use a very high grade, and a thicker than usual gauge of stainless steel to create sinks that really last long- even outdoors, or at the coast.
  • The redesign of their website is to make sure that it's better tailored towards functionality for trade customers, who are all trade customers.
  • Nathan walks us through their to the trade sales process.
  • Their products can all be seen on their website and a sample of the finish of their products can be seen first-hand, prior to purchasing them.
  • All their sinks have free shipping and also free return shipping, if necessary.
  • Nathan talks about the hand-wrapped foam insulating material which is unique to their sinks.
  • All their designs are original and they're all created in-house.
  • They create products that could really help designers solve certain problems for their clients.
  • Pictures really help to visually drive home the difference between quality products and inferior ones.
  • Why it actually matters whereabout in the sink the drain is placed.
  • For all the designers who are going to be at KBIS in Las Vegas, Nathan explains how to find where the Morgan Tap and Basin booth will be located. (It's booth # SL4725 in the South Hall, in the outer row, near to the KBIS Next Stage.)
  • Nathan is always happy to get feedback on products and ideas and if you need something custom made, he will work that out with you.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Revel woods #329

Announcements:

Morgan Tap and Basin's product is launching at KBIS booth # SL4725 in the South Hall from the 19th to the 22nd of February. It's near to the KBIS Next Stage.

LuAnn's panel discussion at KBIS is on Thursday, the 21st of February, at 9.30am.

KBISNeXT Stage Speaker Landing Page-LuAnn Nigara

]]> 3414 no 402: Christopher Grubb: Business Insights from an Experienced Principal Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/402-christopher-grubb-business-insights-from-an-experienced-principal-interior-designer Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Christopher Grubb, the president of the Beverley Hills-based Arch-Interiors Design Group Inc., as our guest for today. Christopher has been called a style maker and expert design influencer by clients, editors, manufacturers, and producers alike and, for his entire career, he has been a sought-after speaker on what makes design compelling. He has also been a contributing writer to many media outlets as well as a guest judge for multiple design competitions. One of the things he will be talking to us about on the show today is how he began creating affordable, luxury products for the consumer market with the launch of the C.G. Collection in 2010. Although his business is more than twenty-years-old, and his projects are large and detailed, Christopher still maintains a steady eye and a firm hand on the way that his business is run. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today.  The Arch-Interiors design group is recognized internationally for its interior and exterior high-end residential, commercial, medical, health and beauty, retail design projects. The firm has been featured in books, hundreds of magazines and newspapers, and Christopher has shared his design skills on multiple radio and television shows – including recurring appearances on LXTV/NBC and Martha Stewart Living Radio. In 2015 Christopher launched a new studio, Autograph by Christopher Grubb. This line is comprised of unique, beautifully constructed products with rich features and alluring details for the most discriminating consumer clientele. The Arch-Interiors design group has received dozens of awards and is honored to be named the best interior design firm in California by Build Magazine, in addition to being featured in an entire issue of World Architecture Magazine in Hong Kong with over 70 pages, exclusively covering the works of Arch-Interiors. Christopher has also been named one of the 50 Innovators in Kitchen and Bath Design in 2017. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working with high-end commercial projects, compared with working with residential projects. Christopher does resommercial- a blend of commercial and residential design. You really need education about business before going out on your own. And you need to know what makes you stand out from the rest. What makes Christopher's firm really stand out. Flat fee, or an hourly fee? Some of the things Christopher is comfortable with not billing for. Christopher is really onto all the aspects of his business. No matter how big, or how small your business, you cannot offload your responsibility around the financials. The incredibly high level of service that Christopher's firm is offering his clients. Christopher talks about his product development and his two different entities, the luxury Autograph by Christopher Grubb, and the affordable luxury C.G.Collection. Bathrooms can be some of the most detailed rooms to do. Know your specialty and target that for success. Some of the nuances of bringing a product to market. Why you need to look at your payables and receivables at least once every month. Christopher uses Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management software, as it prints out your profit and loss, your time billing reports and your accounts receivable. About Christopher's designs and creations. What Christopher looks at for inspiration. Christopher has devoted a whole chapter in his book to the development of a luxury product line. Christopher's design firm is known for quality, a high level of hands-on, and for attention to detail. Why, as a designer, you really need to like the product that you produce. Fighting for your vision is really important for product designers. Owning your mistakes will earn you the respect of your clients. Why you never really have competition. Links and Resources: Christopher's website: Arch-Interiors Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management Software: Studio Designer To find out more about LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation or to sign up for the event, go to Luann Live. The sponsors who have made this event possible include: Kravet Inc, Mydoma Studio, Wingnut Social, Schwartz Design Showroom, DesignerInc, Pollack-Weitzner, Merrill Landis Drapery Workroom, the WCAA, East End Interiors in Long Island, and Exciting Windows. LuAnn will be at KBIS on the 20th and 21st of February. For all the info on where else she'll be, go to her website Luann Nigara, and be sure to also follow her on Instagram at LuAnnNigara. Tue, 12 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Christopher Grubb, the president of the Beverley Hills-based Arch-Interiors Design Group Inc., as our guest for today. Christopher has been called a style maker and expert design... Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Christopher Grubb, the president of the Beverley Hills-based Arch-Interiors Design Group Inc., as our guest for today. Christopher has been called a style maker and expert design influencer by clients, editors, manufacturers, and producers alike and, for his entire career, he has been a sought-after speaker on what makes design compelling. He has also been a contributing writer to many media outlets as well as a guest judge for multiple design competitions. One of the things he will be talking to us about on the show today is how he began creating affordable, luxury products for the consumer market with the launch of the C.G. Collection in 2010. Although his business is more than twenty-years-old, and his projects are large and detailed, Christopher still maintains a steady eye and a firm hand on the way that his business is run. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today.  The Arch-Interiors design group is recognized internationally for its interior and exterior high-end residential, commercial, medical, health and beauty, retail design projects. The firm has been featured in books, hundreds of magazines and newspapers, and Christopher has shared his design skills on multiple radio and television shows – including recurring appearances on LXTV/NBC and Martha Stewart Living Radio. In 2015 Christopher launched a new studio, Autograph by Christopher Grubb. This line is comprised of unique, beautifully constructed products with rich features and alluring details for the most discriminating consumer clientele. The Arch-Interiors design group has received dozens of awards and is honored to be named the best interior design firm in California by Build Magazine, in addition to being featured in an entire issue of World Architecture Magazine in Hong Kong with over 70 pages, exclusively covering the works of Arch-Interiors. Christopher has also been named one of the 50 Innovators in Kitchen and Bath Design in 2017. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working with high-end commercial projects, compared with working with residential projects. Christopher does resommercial- a blend of commercial and residential design. You really need education about business before going out on your own. And you need to know what makes you stand out from the rest. What makes Christopher's firm really stand out. Flat fee, or an hourly fee? Some of the things Christopher is comfortable with not billing for. Christopher is really onto all the aspects of his business. No matter how big, or how small your business, you cannot offload your responsibility around the financials. The incredibly high level of service that Christopher's firm is offering his clients. Christopher talks about his product development and his two different entities, the luxury Autograph by Christopher Grubb, and the affordable luxury C.G.Collection. Bathrooms can be some of the most detailed rooms to do. Know your specialty and target that for success. Some of the nuances of bringing a product to market. Why you need to look at your payables and receivables at least once every month. Christopher uses Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management software, as it prints out your profit and loss, your time billing reports and your accounts receivable. About Christopher's designs and creations. What Christopher looks at for inspiration. Christopher has devoted a whole chapter in his book to the development of a luxury product line. Christopher's design firm is known for quality, a high level of hands-on, and for attention to detail. Why, as a designer, you really need to like the product that you produce. Fighting for your vision is really important for product designers. Owning your mistakes will earn you the respect of your clients. Why you never really have competition. Links and Resources: Christopher's website: Arch-Interiors Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management Software: Studio Designer To find out more about LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation or to sign up for the event, go to Luann Live. The sponsors who have made this event possible include: Kravet Inc, Mydoma Studio, Wingnut Social, Schwartz Design Showroom, DesignerInc, Pollack-Weitzner, Merrill Landis Drapery Workroom, the WCAA, East End Interiors in Long Island, and Exciting Windows. LuAnn will be at KBIS on the 20th and 21st of February. For all the info on where else she'll be, go to her website Luann Nigara, and be sure to also follow her on Instagram at LuAnnNigara. Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Christopher Grubb, the president of the Beverley Hills-based Arch-Interiors Design Group Inc., as our guest for today. Christopher has been called a style maker and expert design influencer by clients, editors, manufacturers, and producers alike and, for his entire career, he has been a sought-after speaker on what makes design compelling. He has also been a contributing writer to many media outlets as well as a guest judge for multiple design competitions. One of the things he will be talking to us about on the show today is how he began creating affordable, luxury products for the consumer market with the launch of the C.G. Collection in 2010. Although his business is more than twenty-years-old, and his projects are large and detailed, Christopher still maintains a steady eye and a firm hand on the way that his business is run. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today. 

The Arch-Interiors design group is recognized internationally for its interior and exterior high-end residential, commercial, medical, health and beauty, retail design projects. The firm has been featured in books, hundreds of magazines and newspapers, and Christopher has shared his design skills on multiple radio and television shows – including recurring appearances on LXTV/NBC and Martha Stewart Living Radio.

In 2015 Christopher launched a new studio, Autograph by Christopher Grubb. This line is comprised of unique, beautifully constructed products with rich features and alluring details for the most discriminating consumer clientele.

The Arch-Interiors design group has received dozens of awards and is honored to be named the best interior design firm in California by Build Magazine, in addition to being featured in an entire issue of World Architecture Magazine in Hong Kong with over 70 pages, exclusively covering the works of Arch-Interiors. Christopher has also been named one of the 50 Innovators in Kitchen and Bath Design in 2017. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Working with high-end commercial projects, compared with working with residential projects.
  • Christopher does resommercial- a blend of commercial and residential design.
  • You really need education about business before going out on your own. And you need to know what makes you stand out from the rest.
  • What makes Christopher's firm really stand out.
  • Flat fee, or an hourly fee?
  • Some of the things Christopher is comfortable with not billing for.
  • Christopher is really onto all the aspects of his business.
  • No matter how big, or how small your business, you cannot offload your responsibility around the financials.
  • The incredibly high level of service that Christopher's firm is offering his clients.
  • Christopher talks about his product development and his two different entities, the luxury Autograph by Christopher Grubb, and the affordable luxury C.G.Collection.
  • Bathrooms can be some of the most detailed rooms to do.
  • Know your specialty and target that for success.
  • Some of the nuances of bringing a product to market.
  • Why you need to look at your payables and receivables at least once every month.
  • Christopher uses Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management software, as it prints out your profit and loss, your time billing reports and your accounts receivable.
  • About Christopher's designs and creations.
  • What Christopher looks at for inspiration.
  • Christopher has devoted a whole chapter in his book to the development of a luxury product line.
  • Christopher's design firm is known for quality, a high level of hands-on, and for attention to detail.
  • Why, as a designer, you really need to like the product that you produce.
  • Fighting for your vision is really important for product designers.
  • Owning your mistakes will earn you the respect of your clients.
  • Why you never really have competition.

Links and Resources:

Christopher's website: Arch-Interiors

Studio Designer Accounting and Project Management Software: Studio Designer

To find out more about LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About the Conversation or to sign up for the event, go to Luann Live.

The sponsors who have made this event possible include: Kravet Inc, Mydoma Studio, Wingnut Social, Schwartz Design Showroom, DesignerInc, Pollack-Weitzner, Merrill Landis Drapery Workroom, the WCAA, East End Interiors in Long Island, and Exciting Windows.

LuAnn will be at KBIS on the 20th and 21st of February. For all the info on where else she'll be, go to her website Luann Nigara, and be sure to also follow her on Instagram at LuAnnNigara.

]]> 4584 no 401: Power Talk Friday: Jennifer Burnham: Space to be Creative, De-Clutter and Organize Your Space http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/401-power-talk-friday-jennifer-burnham-space-to-be-creative-de-clutter-and-organize-your-space Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Keeping things organized is often the Achilles heel of creatives, so today we are very happy to have Jennifer Burnham, an organization coach, join us on the show. Jen helps people by providing the space for them to be creative, de-clutter and get organized. She believes that organizing is about more than color-coordinated baskets and pretty labels. It's really about productivity, so she helps her clients to dive in and discover the specific experience they're looking for in the way that they want their home, office, and in their life to be organized. Listen in today to find out how you can increase productivity in your business by having an organized space. Jennifer has appeared on Charlotte today, spoken at IKEA, at community organizations, at high-end real estate events, and she's also run home estate sales. On the show today she talks about how important it is to have your workspace organized, and she explains how to go about getting that done. Listen in and find out how an organization translates into productivity, which then translates into more business. Show highlights: Jennifer's awesome relationship with Cheryl Luckett, of Dwell by Cheryl. The challenges of organizing a design studio. The first step is always de-cluttering. Organizing in the right way. Looking at the emotional reasons for de-cluttering. First, put things in a space in the middle of the room, then sort them into broad categories. (Eg. pens, paper clips, notepads, product samples) Evaluate what you need and what you can get rid of. After you have de-cluttered you organize what you have decided to keep, putting everything in its place. The kinds of push-backs that Jen has encountered. Organizing takes time, and it's never really done, so you want to get it finished as soon as possible. The way that organizing changes your energy and the energy of the space. Things to watch out for that can bring the de-cluttering process to a halt. Donating unused items to charity can make the decision to throw things away a bit easier. If necessary, get new containers, storage items, or cabinets. Keep it this way by picking up each week as you go and not letting things get out of control. Jennifer explains the basis of her philosophy of organizing. The connection between organization and productivity. The way that Jen thinks in terms of shapes. If your business is feeling stagnant it's a good time to start organizing things. Owning less is better than organizing more. Do you respect your space? Tips for working with your client's clutter. Closing the loop when you're de-cluttering is important, so you need a system. Keeping the balance and staying organized. Looking at the things that threaten an organized space. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Cheryl Luckett: #291 and #397 Kim Kuhteubl #73 Links and resources: To see Cheryl Luckett's line of furniture: Sylvester Alexander Jennifer's website Jennifer is offering 20% off her services for all A Well Designed Business listeners Our friends at Kravet Inc. are having a big furniture sale. Starting January 14th, get 10% off Kravet Furniture, Lee Jofa Furniture and Holland MacRae furniture. Start shopping now- the deal runs until March 4th! Go to Kravet and make sure to use the code W7 at checkout to redeem the offer! Fri, 08 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Keeping things organized is often the Achilles heel of creatives, so today we are very happy to have Jennifer Burnham, an organization coach, join us on the show. Jen helps people by providing the space for them to be... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Keeping things organized is often the Achilles heel of creatives, so today we are very happy to have Jennifer Burnham, an organization coach, join us on the show. Jen helps people by providing the space for them to be creative, de-clutter and get organized. She believes that organizing is about more than color-coordinated baskets and pretty labels. It's really about productivity, so she helps her clients to dive in and discover the specific experience they're looking for in the way that they want their home, office, and in their life to be organized. Listen in today to find out how you can increase productivity in your business by having an organized space. Jennifer has appeared on Charlotte today, spoken at IKEA, at community organizations, at high-end real estate events, and she's also run home estate sales. On the show today she talks about how important it is to have your workspace organized, and she explains how to go about getting that done. Listen in and find out how an organization translates into productivity, which then translates into more business. Show highlights: Jennifer's awesome relationship with Cheryl Luckett, of Dwell by Cheryl. The challenges of organizing a design studio. The first step is always de-cluttering. Organizing in the right way. Looking at the emotional reasons for de-cluttering. First, put things in a space in the middle of the room, then sort them into broad categories. (Eg. pens, paper clips, notepads, product samples) Evaluate what you need and what you can get rid of. After you have de-cluttered you organize what you have decided to keep, putting everything in its place. The kinds of push-backs that Jen has encountered. Organizing takes time, and it's never really done, so you want to get it finished as soon as possible. The way that organizing changes your energy and the energy of the space. Things to watch out for that can bring the de-cluttering process to a halt. Donating unused items to charity can make the decision to throw things away a bit easier. If necessary, get new containers, storage items, or cabinets. Keep it this way by picking up each week as you go and not letting things get out of control. Jennifer explains the basis of her philosophy of organizing. The connection between organization and productivity. The way that Jen thinks in terms of shapes. If your business is feeling stagnant it's a good time to start organizing things. Owning less is better than organizing more. Do you respect your space? Tips for working with your client's clutter. Closing the loop when you're de-cluttering is important, so you need a system. Keeping the balance and staying organized. Looking at the things that threaten an organized space. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Cheryl Luckett: #291 and #397 Kim Kuhteubl #73 Links and resources: To see Cheryl Luckett's line of furniture: Sylvester Alexander Jennifer's website Jennifer is offering 20% off her services for all A Well Designed Business listeners Our friends at Kravet Inc. are having a big furniture sale. Starting January 14th, get 10% off Kravet Furniture, Lee Jofa Furniture and Holland MacRae furniture. Start shopping now- the deal runs until March 4th! Go to Kravet and make sure to use the code W7 at checkout to redeem the offer! Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Keeping things organized is often the Achilles heel of creatives, so today we are very happy to have Jennifer Burnham, an organization coach, join us on the show. Jen helps people by providing the space for them to be creative, de-clutter and get organized. She believes that organizing is about more than color-coordinated baskets and pretty labels. It's really about productivity, so she helps her clients to dive in and discover the specific experience they're looking for in the way that they want their home, office, and in their life to be organized. Listen in today to find out how you can increase productivity in your business by having an organized space.

Jennifer has appeared on Charlotte today, spoken at IKEA, at community organizations, at high-end real estate events, and she's also run home estate sales. On the show today she talks about how important it is to have your workspace organized, and she explains how to go about getting that done. Listen in and find out how an organization translates into productivity, which then translates into more business.

Show highlights:

  • Jennifer's awesome relationship with Cheryl Luckett, of Dwell by Cheryl.
  • The challenges of organizing a design studio.
  • The first step is always de-cluttering.
  • Organizing in the right way.
  • Looking at the emotional reasons for de-cluttering.
  • First, put things in a space in the middle of the room, then sort them into broad categories. (Eg. pens, paper clips, notepads, product samples)
  • Evaluate what you need and what you can get rid of.
  • After you have de-cluttered you organize what you have decided to keep, putting everything in its place.
  • The kinds of push-backs that Jen has encountered.
  • Organizing takes time, and it's never really done, so you want to get it finished as soon as possible.
  • The way that organizing changes your energy and the energy of the space.
  • Things to watch out for that can bring the de-cluttering process to a halt.
  • Donating unused items to charity can make the decision to throw things away a bit easier.
  • If necessary, get new containers, storage items, or cabinets.
  • Keep it this way by picking up each week as you go and not letting things get out of control.
  • Jennifer explains the basis of her philosophy of organizing.
  • The connection between organization and productivity.
  • The way that Jen thinks in terms of shapes.
  • If your business is feeling stagnant it's a good time to start organizing things.
  • Owning less is better than organizing more.
  • Do you respect your space?
  • Tips for working with your client's clutter.
  • Closing the loop when you're de-cluttering is important, so you need a system.
  • Keeping the balance and staying organized.
  • Looking at the things that threaten an organized space.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Cheryl Luckett: #291 and #397

Kim Kuhteubl #73

Links and resources:

To see Cheryl Luckett's line of furniture: Sylvester Alexander

Jennifer's website

Jennifer is offering 20% off her services for all A Well Designed Business listeners

Our friends at Kravet Inc. are having a big furniture sale. Starting January 14th, get 10% off Kravet Furniture, Lee Jofa Furniture and Holland MacRae furniture. Start shopping now- the deal runs until March 4th! Go to Kravet and make sure to use the code W7 at checkout to redeem the offer!

]]> 3311 no 400: Celebrating 3 Years & 400 Episodes!: LuAnn Nigara http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/400-celebrating-3-years-400-episodes-luann-nigara Big Day, Big Show, lots of news!! 400 hundred shows! I’d like to say I never believed this day would come but the truth is I did believe it. And more than that, I planned for it, I set goals around it, I tracked the milestones and the steps needed to reach it. Am I bragging? No, no, I am not. I am hoping to teach and inspire you by example. Just like you, I love what I do and as much as I love it and could do it for free for the fun and pleasure of connecting with you, meeting you in real life I understand all too well in order to be able to do those things I must intentionally run this podcast as the business it is. And you must do the same. In order to be able to create the fabulous, functional and unique spaces for your clients, you must run your firm profitably so you can continue to do it. What are some of the major lessons we have learned, together? What are some of the things we have learned from A Well-Designed Business Podcast? Welcome to our 400th episode! Today really is a big day for the show and we have lots of news! LuAnn loves what she does with this podcast so much that she could do it for free, yet she truly understands that, in order to be able to keep it going, she needs to run it intentionally, as the business that it is. Today she really hopes to inspire you, the listener, to do the same with your design business. Listen in to find out what you need to do, and the steps you need to take, in order to continue creating the fabulous, fun, and unique spaces that you do for your clients. Although LuAnn set a very intentional plan in action to make this day happen, it still feels almost unbelievable to her! On the show today, she will be discussing some of the major lessons that we've all learned together, from A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Listen in to find out more.  Link to LuAnn’s New Book: Luann Nigara Book 2   Tue, 05 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Big Day, Big Show, lots of news!! 400 hundred shows! I’d like to say I never believed this day would come but the truth is I did believe it. And more than that, I planned for it, I set goals around it, I tracked the milestones and the steps needed... Big Day, Big Show, lots of news!! 400 hundred shows! I’d like to say I never believed this day would come but the truth is I did believe it. And more than that, I planned for it, I set goals around it, I tracked the milestones and the steps needed to reach it. Am I bragging? No, no, I am not. I am hoping to teach and inspire you by example. Just like you, I love what I do and as much as I love it and could do it for free for the fun and pleasure of connecting with you, meeting you in real life I understand all too well in order to be able to do those things I must intentionally run this podcast as the business it is. And you must do the same. In order to be able to create the fabulous, functional and unique spaces for your clients, you must run your firm profitably so you can continue to do it. What are some of the major lessons we have learned, together? What are some of the things we have learned from A Well-Designed Business Podcast? Welcome to our 400th episode! Today really is a big day for the show and we have lots of news! LuAnn loves what she does with this podcast so much that she could do it for free, yet she truly understands that, in order to be able to keep it going, she needs to run it intentionally, as the business that it is. Today she really hopes to inspire you, the listener, to do the same with your design business. Listen in to find out what you need to do, and the steps you need to take, in order to continue creating the fabulous, fun, and unique spaces that you do for your clients. Although LuAnn set a very intentional plan in action to make this day happen, it still feels almost unbelievable to her! On the show today, she will be discussing some of the major lessons that we've all learned together, from A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Listen in to find out more.  Link to LuAnn’s New Book: Luann Nigara Book 2   Big Day, Big Show, lots of news!!

400 hundred shows! I’d like to say I never believed this day would come but the truth is I did believe it. And more than that, I planned for it, I set goals around it, I tracked the milestones and the steps needed to reach it. Am I bragging? No, no, I am not. I am hoping to teach and inspire you by example.

Just like you, I love what I do and as much as I love it and could do it for free for the fun and pleasure of connecting with you, meeting you in real life I understand all too well in order to be able to do those things I must intentionally run this podcast as the business it is.

And you must do the same. In order to be able to create the fabulous, functional and unique spaces for your clients, you must run your firm profitably so you can continue to do it.

What are some of the major lessons we have learned, together?

What are some of the things we have learned from A Well-Designed Business Podcast?

Welcome to our 400th episode! Today really is a big day for the show and we have lots of news! LuAnn loves what she does with this podcast so much that she could do it for free, yet she truly understands that, in order to be able to keep it going, she needs to run it intentionally, as the business that it is. Today she really hopes to inspire you, the listener, to do the same with your design business. Listen in to find out what you need to do, and the steps you need to take, in order to continue creating the fabulous, fun, and unique spaces that you do for your clients.

Although LuAnn set a very intentional plan in action to make this day happen, it still feels almost unbelievable to her! On the show today, she will be discussing some of the major lessons that we've all learned together, from A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Listen in to find out more. 

Link to LuAnn’s New Book:

Luann Nigara Book 2

 

]]> 2920 no 399: Design Biz Live: Business Can Be Thunderstorms and Chickens; Hard Truths, Hard Lessons http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/399-design-biz-live-business-can-be-thunderstorms-and-chickens-hard-truths-hard-lessons Welcome to another Design Biz Live! We have the gang all together again to have a very candid conversation regarding a difficulty to which most of us can relate...how to handle a difficult client. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen join LuAnn once again and today, Judith shares a personal experience she had with a very difficult client last summer that rocked her confidence, made her life very horrible and the project was very challenging to get through. It shares the message that being self-employed is very hard and it takes a tremendous amount of grit and fortitude to power through the rough times. It is a significant message because Judith is a seasoned entrepreneur, showing how it can hit any of us at any time. You’re definitely going to want to catch this episode, so be sure to tune in. Show highlights: Designers are real people, too, and experience a myriad of emotions. Judith shares about a couple of episodes she experienced last summer that rocked her from her zone of genius. Judith shares that a difficult client crushed her confidence and made her question her own abilities and value. The client was satisfied with work being done one day, and unsatisfied the next, which was very challenging for Judith, the contractor, and other workers. Judith shares that the client’s demeanor drastically improved once the spouse came home. Corey shares that he and other people he knows have had similar experiences, and tried to understand why those types of behaviors were happening in order to avoid misunderstandings. LuAnn expresses that because a client had personal difficulties, doesn’t mean we should feel that we aren’t confident and capable, but should self-question in order to have better conversations with the client in the future. LuAnn says that even when we have difficult clients, we still need to remain professional and meet their needs in the best way possible. Judith says she is still affected by what happened last summer and felt like she was in a hostage situation. LuAnn and Judith discuss the importance of diffusing difficult situations in professional ways. Corey jumps in and says that sometimes a text or e-mail tone may differ from the in-person tone. Judith says through the experience, she knows she has to filter what is going on rather than absorbing it herself. LuAnn says it’s important to manage difficult situations so that we don’t become non-productive. Judith says that as a creative, you may perceive and sense the world differently and that when she has a client, it becomes a personal relationship. When Judith’s inner dialogue told her the client had personal issues and that she was not responsible for the negative behavior, it was still hard not to absorb the negativity. LuAnn says that each person has something within that makes them react in a particular way. LuAnn also points out that a designer’s relationship with a client may last weeks, months, or longer, which can be taxing when dealing with a client exhibiting erratic behavior. Regardless of the difficulties Judith experienced with her client, she had a positive result at the end of the job, and hopes her client is enjoying the home. Judith moves on and shares about another difficult client situation and how she had to fire a client. Judith terminated the relationship with her client because it was just not working for her. Judith shares how she terminated the relationship and about the follow-up phone call that confirmed she had made the right decision. Judith shares that the client crossed the line with her, and she respected herself enough to let him go. Judith shares how the two difficult clients made her bucket very full and she didn’t pay enough attention to it before it overflowed. LuAnn says before we reach the level of wanting to terminate a client, maybe we should remember that it is a business transaction, rather than a personal relationship. Also, LuAnn applauds the way Judith used two methods so it would leave no doubt about the situation. LuAnn also says Judith did a great thing by invoking some “wait time” before responding to the client’s request for a phone call. LuAnn suggests that we each need to figure out ways to keep our buckets from becoming too full. ie. a walk/run, dinner/conversation with family or friends, reading, etc. Corey says he has switched from having business hours to appointment hours so that he takes appointments when he can be productive and be his best. Judith suggests that designers may want to contribute time to a non-profit so that they can contribute to causes outside themselves. LuAnn says to watch for signals from clients which may indicate difficult behavior. Know you can’t change the person, but you can change how you react/respond to them. Have mechanisms in place to deal with this type of client because you will encounter them. Links: Corey Klassen Interior Design Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara. Fri, 01 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Design Biz Live! We have the gang all together again to have a very candid conversation regarding a difficulty to which most of us can relate...how to handle a difficult client. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen join LuAnn once again... Welcome to another Design Biz Live! We have the gang all together again to have a very candid conversation regarding a difficulty to which most of us can relate...how to handle a difficult client. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen join LuAnn once again and today, Judith shares a personal experience she had with a very difficult client last summer that rocked her confidence, made her life very horrible and the project was very challenging to get through. It shares the message that being self-employed is very hard and it takes a tremendous amount of grit and fortitude to power through the rough times. It is a significant message because Judith is a seasoned entrepreneur, showing how it can hit any of us at any time. You’re definitely going to want to catch this episode, so be sure to tune in. Show highlights: Designers are real people, too, and experience a myriad of emotions. Judith shares about a couple of episodes she experienced last summer that rocked her from her zone of genius. Judith shares that a difficult client crushed her confidence and made her question her own abilities and value. The client was satisfied with work being done one day, and unsatisfied the next, which was very challenging for Judith, the contractor, and other workers. Judith shares that the client’s demeanor drastically improved once the spouse came home. Corey shares that he and other people he knows have had similar experiences, and tried to understand why those types of behaviors were happening in order to avoid misunderstandings. LuAnn expresses that because a client had personal difficulties, doesn’t mean we should feel that we aren’t confident and capable, but should self-question in order to have better conversations with the client in the future. LuAnn says that even when we have difficult clients, we still need to remain professional and meet their needs in the best way possible. Judith says she is still affected by what happened last summer and felt like she was in a hostage situation. LuAnn and Judith discuss the importance of diffusing difficult situations in professional ways. Corey jumps in and says that sometimes a text or e-mail tone may differ from the in-person tone. Judith says through the experience, she knows she has to filter what is going on rather than absorbing it herself. LuAnn says it’s important to manage difficult situations so that we don’t become non-productive. Judith says that as a creative, you may perceive and sense the world differently and that when she has a client, it becomes a personal relationship. When Judith’s inner dialogue told her the client had personal issues and that she was not responsible for the negative behavior, it was still hard not to absorb the negativity. LuAnn says that each person has something within that makes them react in a particular way. LuAnn also points out that a designer’s relationship with a client may last weeks, months, or longer, which can be taxing when dealing with a client exhibiting erratic behavior. Regardless of the difficulties Judith experienced with her client, she had a positive result at the end of the job, and hopes her client is enjoying the home. Judith moves on and shares about another difficult client situation and how she had to fire a client. Judith terminated the relationship with her client because it was just not working for her. Judith shares how she terminated the relationship and about the follow-up phone call that confirmed she had made the right decision. Judith shares that the client crossed the line with her, and she respected herself enough to let him go. Judith shares how the two difficult clients made her bucket very full and she didn’t pay enough attention to it before it overflowed. LuAnn says before we reach the level of wanting to terminate a client, maybe we should remember that it is a business transaction, rather than a personal relationship. Also, LuAnn applauds the way Judith used two methods so it would leave no doubt about the situation. LuAnn also says Judith did a great thing by invoking some “wait time” before responding to the client’s request for a phone call. LuAnn suggests that we each need to figure out ways to keep our buckets from becoming too full. ie. a walk/run, dinner/conversation with family or friends, reading, etc. Corey says he has switched from having business hours to appointment hours so that he takes appointments when he can be productive and be his best. Judith suggests that designers may want to contribute time to a non-profit so that they can contribute to causes outside themselves. LuAnn says to watch for signals from clients which may indicate difficult behavior. Know you can’t change the person, but you can change how you react/respond to them. Have mechanisms in place to deal with this type of client because you will encounter them. Links: Corey Klassen Interior Design Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara. Welcome to another Design Biz Live! We have the gang all together again to have a very candid conversation regarding a difficulty to which most of us can relate...how to handle a difficult client. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen join LuAnn once again and today, Judith shares a personal experience she had with a very difficult client last summer that rocked her confidence, made her life very horrible and the project was very challenging to get through. It shares the message that being self-employed is very hard and it takes a tremendous amount of grit and fortitude to power through the rough times. It is a significant message because Judith is a seasoned entrepreneur, showing how it can hit any of us at any time. You’re definitely going to want to catch this episode, so be sure to tune in.

Show highlights:

  • Designers are real people, too, and experience a myriad of emotions.
  • Judith shares about a couple of episodes she experienced last summer that rocked her from her zone of genius.
  • Judith shares that a difficult client crushed her confidence and made her question her own abilities and value.
  • The client was satisfied with work being done one day, and unsatisfied the next, which was very challenging for Judith, the contractor, and other workers.
  • Judith shares that the client’s demeanor drastically improved once the spouse came home.
  • Corey shares that he and other people he knows have had similar experiences, and tried to understand why those types of behaviors were happening in order to avoid misunderstandings.
  • LuAnn expresses that because a client had personal difficulties, doesn’t mean we should feel that we aren’t confident and capable, but should self-question in order to have better conversations with the client in the future.
  • LuAnn says that even when we have difficult clients, we still need to remain professional and meet their needs in the best way possible.
  • Judith says she is still affected by what happened last summer and felt like she was in a hostage situation.
  • LuAnn and Judith discuss the importance of diffusing difficult situations in professional ways.
  • Corey jumps in and says that sometimes a text or e-mail tone may differ from the in-person tone.
  • Judith says through the experience, she knows she has to filter what is going on rather than absorbing it herself.
  • LuAnn says it’s important to manage difficult situations so that we don’t become non-productive.
  • Judith says that as a creative, you may perceive and sense the world differently and that when she has a client, it becomes a personal relationship.
  • When Judith’s inner dialogue told her the client had personal issues and that she was not responsible for the negative behavior, it was still hard not to absorb the negativity.
  • LuAnn says that each person has something within that makes them react in a particular way.
  • LuAnn also points out that a designer’s relationship with a client may last weeks, months, or longer, which can be taxing when dealing with a client exhibiting erratic behavior.
  • Regardless of the difficulties Judith experienced with her client, she had a positive result at the end of the job, and hopes her client is enjoying the home.
  • Judith moves on and shares about another difficult client situation and how she had to fire a client.
  • Judith terminated the relationship with her client because it was just not working for her.
  • Judith shares how she terminated the relationship and about the follow-up phone call that confirmed she had made the right decision.
  • Judith shares that the client crossed the line with her, and she respected herself enough to let him go.
  • Judith shares how the two difficult clients made her bucket very full and she didn’t pay enough attention to it before it overflowed.
  • LuAnn says before we reach the level of wanting to terminate a client, maybe we should remember that it is a business transaction, rather than a personal relationship.
  • Also, LuAnn applauds the way Judith used two methods so it would leave no doubt about the situation.
  • LuAnn also says Judith did a great thing by invoking some “wait time” before responding to the client’s request for a phone call.
  • LuAnn suggests that we each need to figure out ways to keep our buckets from becoming too full. ie. a walk/run, dinner/conversation with family or friends, reading, etc.
  • Corey says he has switched from having business hours to appointment hours so that he takes appointments when he can be productive and be his best.
  • Judith suggests that designers may want to contribute time to a non-profit so that they can contribute to causes outside themselves.
  • LuAnn says to watch for signals from clients which may indicate difficult behavior. Know you can’t change the person, but you can change how you react/respond to them. Have mechanisms in place to deal with this type of client because you will encounter them.

Links:

Corey Klassen Interior Design

Judith Neary - Roadside Attraction Studio

LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara.

]]> 5069 no 398: Courtney McLeod: Defined Process = Success in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/398-courtney-mcleod-defined-process-success-in-your-interior-design-business Welcome to today's episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Courtney McLeod, the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design in New York City, with us on the show today. Courtney has come to interior design as a second career. So even though she has always been passionate about the decorative arts, she first obtained a business degree from the Warden School at the University of Pennsylvania, and then pursued a successful, fifteen-year career in the financial services industry, where she rose to the role of a leading portfolio manager in real estate private equity before exercising her true passion for designing beautiful interiors. Listen in today to find out how Courtney used both the skills she gained through her experience, and her transferable skills, enhanced with her design-related studies at Parsons Pratt and the New York School of Interior Design, to confidently embark on a new career course. An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others - joy. Her designs express both her client's unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: It takes time to figure out your specific process. Your confidence you will gain from having your system in place is really a huge benefit. The development of Courtney's process was not a straight line from A to B- it took trial and error to figure out what really worked. Working out what worked for her rather than for the client was like a magic moment for Courtney. Courtney shares a really important and effective way to gain the trust of your client. A softer touch works for Courtney, yet she also has to be firm. Courtney also developed a lot of confidence from embracing her style clearly and entirely. Happy, joyful color is really Courtney's thing. Having confidence in her process allowed Courtney to develop more creative confidence. The six steps of Courtney's process. Courtney explains her phase one, and how to implement it. About Courtney's 'Rules Of The Road' document. What's to be found in Courtney's welcome packet. The way that having a retainer protects Courtney. The way Courtney sets up her spreadsheet. It takes a lot of practice to get things right. The clear way that Courtney prices her projects. How to keep your clients informed and empowered. What the closure meeting means to Courtney. The goal of the closure meeting is to get a referral. Previous episodes mentioned in this episode: Erica Ward #6 Monique Holmes #365 Rachel Cannon #306 Nicole Heymer #317 Curio Electro #125 Links: Website: Right Meets Left Interior Design Instagram: Right Meets Left Interior Design Twitter: Right Meets Left LinkedIn: Right Meets Left Interior Design Facebook: Right Meets Left Interior Design LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara. Tue, 29 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Courtney McLeod, the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design in New York City, with us on the show today. Courtney has come to interior design as a second career. So even though she... Welcome to today's episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Courtney McLeod, the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design in New York City, with us on the show today. Courtney has come to interior design as a second career. So even though she has always been passionate about the decorative arts, she first obtained a business degree from the Warden School at the University of Pennsylvania, and then pursued a successful, fifteen-year career in the financial services industry, where she rose to the role of a leading portfolio manager in real estate private equity before exercising her true passion for designing beautiful interiors. Listen in today to find out how Courtney used both the skills she gained through her experience, and her transferable skills, enhanced with her design-related studies at Parsons Pratt and the New York School of Interior Design, to confidently embark on a new career course. An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others - joy. Her designs express both her client's unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: It takes time to figure out your specific process. Your confidence you will gain from having your system in place is really a huge benefit. The development of Courtney's process was not a straight line from A to B- it took trial and error to figure out what really worked. Working out what worked for her rather than for the client was like a magic moment for Courtney. Courtney shares a really important and effective way to gain the trust of your client. A softer touch works for Courtney, yet she also has to be firm. Courtney also developed a lot of confidence from embracing her style clearly and entirely. Happy, joyful color is really Courtney's thing. Having confidence in her process allowed Courtney to develop more creative confidence. The six steps of Courtney's process. Courtney explains her phase one, and how to implement it. About Courtney's 'Rules Of The Road' document. What's to be found in Courtney's welcome packet. The way that having a retainer protects Courtney. The way Courtney sets up her spreadsheet. It takes a lot of practice to get things right. The clear way that Courtney prices her projects. How to keep your clients informed and empowered. What the closure meeting means to Courtney. The goal of the closure meeting is to get a referral. Previous episodes mentioned in this episode: Erica Ward #6 Monique Holmes #365 Rachel Cannon #306 Nicole Heymer #317 Curio Electro #125 Links: Website: Right Meets Left Interior Design Instagram: Right Meets Left Interior Design Twitter: Right Meets Left LinkedIn: Right Meets Left Interior Design Facebook: Right Meets Left Interior Design LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara. Welcome to today's episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Courtney McLeod, the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design in New York City, with us on the show today. Courtney has come to interior design as a second career. So even though she has always been passionate about the decorative arts, she first obtained a business degree from the Warden School at the University of Pennsylvania, and then pursued a successful, fifteen-year career in the financial services industry, where she rose to the role of a leading portfolio manager in real estate private equity before exercising her true passion for designing beautiful interiors. Listen in today to find out how Courtney used both the skills she gained through her experience, and her transferable skills, enhanced with her design-related studies at Parsons Pratt and the New York School of Interior Design, to confidently embark on a new career course.

An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others - joy. Her designs express both her client's unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.  Born and raised in New Orleans, Courtney brings a sophisticated view to her rooms, informed by her Creole background and extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. She resides in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, a wonderful source of inspiration. She has lived in New York City for two decades but remains a Southerner at heart. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • It takes time to figure out your specific process.
  • Your confidence you will gain from having your system in place is really a huge benefit.
  • The development of Courtney's process was not a straight line from A to B- it took trial and error to figure out what really worked.
  • Working out what worked for her rather than for the client was like a magic moment for Courtney.
  • Courtney shares a really important and effective way to gain the trust of your client.
  • A softer touch works for Courtney, yet she also has to be firm.
  • Courtney also developed a lot of confidence from embracing her style clearly and entirely.
  • Happy, joyful color is really Courtney's thing.
  • Having confidence in her process allowed Courtney to develop more creative confidence.
  • The six steps of Courtney's process.
  • Courtney explains her phase one, and how to implement it.
  • About Courtney's 'Rules Of The Road' document.
  • What's to be found in Courtney's welcome packet.
  • The way that having a retainer protects Courtney.
  • The way Courtney sets up her spreadsheet.
  • It takes a lot of practice to get things right.
  • The clear way that Courtney prices her projects.
  • How to keep your clients informed and empowered.
  • What the closure meeting means to Courtney.
  • The goal of the closure meeting is to get a referral.

Previous episodes mentioned in this episode:

Erica Ward #6

Monique Holmes #365

Rachel Cannon #306

Nicole Heymer #317

Curio Electro #125

Links:

Website: Right Meets Left Interior Design

Instagram: Right Meets Left Interior Design

Twitter: Right Meets Left

LinkedIn: Right Meets Left Interior Design

Facebook: Right Meets Left Interior Design

LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the Event-Brite link at Luann Nigara.

]]> 5354 no 397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/397-power-talk-friday-where-are-they-now-cheryl-luckett-dwell-by-cheryl Todays’ guest is Cheryl Luckett, who is not only a tenacious and creative entrepreneur but has used her talents to build a flourishing business. Within the past two years, Cheryl has fully committed to growing her design business by using her creativity to incorporate unique designs into her projects. Her work has been published in Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, and her work has been featured on many other platforms. Not only is Cheryl making headway in her business but she’s using her platform to build relationships. Cheryl is all about establishing connections and giving back. In this episode, Cheryl talks about how to network, how to build beneficial relationships and the importance of self-promotion. If you want to learn how you can pursue your own dream and build an authentic business, join us in this episode of A Well-Designed Business, with your host, LuAnn Nigara. Show Highlights: What Cheryl has learned about the process of introducing new pieces. The new product line that is being launched on Cheryl’s website. Creating unique pieces and collaborating with local artists for the high-point market. How Cheryl fell into her current project and first show-house. Why you should keep going back and not always take no as a final answer. Being consistent with your business through your personality and professionalism. Cheryl shares how she uses her social media to uphold her brand. Cheryl talks about why she hired a coach and getting her license. How Cheryl built mutually beneficial relationships and set boundaries. Analyzing strengths and utilizing them to benefit your business. How Cheryl used her love for design and culture to tell a story. Weaving in friends’ goals and creativity into your work. The mechanics behind Cheryl’s design process. Identifying people who are going to be ambassadors for your business. Cheryl talks about how you build a business on self-promotion. Collaborating with smaller businesses in order to reach a bigger audience. Setting expectations upfront for projects as opposed to rushing for time deadlines. Being honest about your abilities with potential clients. How Cheryl prepares for upcoming showrooms. Previous Guests Mentioned: Denise McGaha #10 Kim Hoegger #336 Madcap Cottage #228 Ruthie Staalsen #296 Rasheeda Gray #267 Revolution Fabrics Sylvester Alexander Links: Website: Dwell By Cheryl Furniture: Dwell By Cheryl  Blog: Dwell By Cheryl Blog Instagram: Dwell By Cheryl  Facebook: Dwell By Cheryl  Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl  Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl  LinkedIn: Cheryl Luckett Fri, 25 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Todays’ guest is Cheryl Luckett, who is not only a tenacious and creative entrepreneur but has used her talents to build a flourishing business. Within the past two years, Cheryl has fully committed to growing her design business by using her... Todays’ guest is Cheryl Luckett, who is not only a tenacious and creative entrepreneur but has used her talents to build a flourishing business. Within the past two years, Cheryl has fully committed to growing her design business by using her creativity to incorporate unique designs into her projects. Her work has been published in Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, and her work has been featured on many other platforms. Not only is Cheryl making headway in her business but she’s using her platform to build relationships. Cheryl is all about establishing connections and giving back. In this episode, Cheryl talks about how to network, how to build beneficial relationships and the importance of self-promotion. If you want to learn how you can pursue your own dream and build an authentic business, join us in this episode of A Well-Designed Business, with your host, LuAnn Nigara. Show Highlights: What Cheryl has learned about the process of introducing new pieces. The new product line that is being launched on Cheryl’s website. Creating unique pieces and collaborating with local artists for the high-point market. How Cheryl fell into her current project and first show-house. Why you should keep going back and not always take no as a final answer. Being consistent with your business through your personality and professionalism. Cheryl shares how she uses her social media to uphold her brand. Cheryl talks about why she hired a coach and getting her license. How Cheryl built mutually beneficial relationships and set boundaries. Analyzing strengths and utilizing them to benefit your business. How Cheryl used her love for design and culture to tell a story. Weaving in friends’ goals and creativity into your work. The mechanics behind Cheryl’s design process. Identifying people who are going to be ambassadors for your business. Cheryl talks about how you build a business on self-promotion. Collaborating with smaller businesses in order to reach a bigger audience. Setting expectations upfront for projects as opposed to rushing for time deadlines. Being honest about your abilities with potential clients. How Cheryl prepares for upcoming showrooms. Previous Guests Mentioned: Denise McGaha #10 Kim Hoegger #336 Madcap Cottage #228 Ruthie Staalsen #296 Rasheeda Gray #267 Revolution Fabrics Sylvester Alexander Links: Website: Dwell By Cheryl Furniture: Dwell By Cheryl  Blog: Dwell By Cheryl Blog Instagram: Dwell By Cheryl  Facebook: Dwell By Cheryl  Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl  Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl  LinkedIn: Cheryl Luckett Todays’ guest is Cheryl Luckett, who is not only a tenacious and creative entrepreneur but has used her talents to build a flourishing business. Within the past two years, Cheryl has fully committed to growing her design business by using her creativity to incorporate unique designs into her projects. Her work has been published in Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, and her work has been featured on many other platforms. Not only is Cheryl making headway in her business but she’s using her platform to build relationships.

Cheryl is all about establishing connections and giving back. In this episode, Cheryl talks about how to network, how to build beneficial relationships and the importance of self-promotion. If you want to learn how you can pursue your own dream and build an authentic business, join us in this episode of A Well-Designed Business, with your host, LuAnn Nigara.

Show Highlights:

  • What Cheryl has learned about the process of introducing new pieces.
  • The new product line that is being launched on Cheryl’s website.
  • Creating unique pieces and collaborating with local artists for the high-point market.
  • How Cheryl fell into her current project and first show-house.
  • Why you should keep going back and not always take no as a final answer.
  • Being consistent with your business through your personality and professionalism.
  • Cheryl shares how she uses her social media to uphold her brand.
  • Cheryl talks about why she hired a coach and getting her license.
  • How Cheryl built mutually beneficial relationships and set boundaries.
  • Analyzing strengths and utilizing them to benefit your business.
  • How Cheryl used her love for design and culture to tell a story.
  • Weaving in friends’ goals and creativity into your work.
  • The mechanics behind Cheryl’s design process.
  • Identifying people who are going to be ambassadors for your business.
  • Cheryl talks about how you build a business on self-promotion.
  • Collaborating with smaller businesses in order to reach a bigger audience.
  • Setting expectations upfront for projects as opposed to rushing for time deadlines.
  • Being honest about your abilities with potential clients.
  • How Cheryl prepares for upcoming showrooms.

Previous Guests Mentioned:

Denise McGaha #10

Kim Hoegger #336

Madcap Cottage #228

Ruthie Staalsen #296

Rasheeda Gray #267

Revolution Fabrics Sylvester Alexander

Links:

Website: Dwell By Cheryl

Furniture: Dwell By Cheryl 

Blog: Dwell By Cheryl Blog

Instagram: Dwell By Cheryl 

Facebook: Dwell By Cheryl 

Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl 

Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl 

LinkedIn: Cheryl Luckett

]]> 4342 no 396: Yohan May Interiors: Home Staging for the Luxury Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/396-yohan-may-interiors-home-staging-for-the-luxury-market Welcome! Today we have Amber Friederichs and Michele Atijas from the UK, a really dynamic duo and the principals of Yohan May Interiors, with us on the show. They specialize in very high-end, high-quality home staging, so Yohan May Interiors attracts clientele and projects at the very highest level of luxury real estate in London. The two primary goals with every project in this really high-pressure market are to sell the home fast and to obtain the highest possible price. On the show today, Michele and Amber discuss their turnaround times, how they cannot concern themselves with their clients' taste and design style, and also, how they position the home for sale. Listen in today to find out more about Michele and Amber's business model, and to discover their keys to be really successful with what they do. Founded in 2015, Yohan May Interiors emerged from the collaboration of two friends, Michele Atijas and Amber Friederichs. The company started out of necessity when Amber was unable to find a home staging agency that offered the personalization and curation she was looking for.  The pair decided to work on the project on their own and spoke with a number of developers and estate agents. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. They decided to call the company Yohan May after Amber's late father, Johann, and Michele's late mother, Maj, whom they credit with their passion for interiors. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Michele and Amber discuss the systems they use for their incredibly quick turnaround time. About their free site visits and what they entail. Their projects usually involve staging the entire house and they often deal with foreign investors. They always try to provide a flexible service. How they managed to attract so many high-end clients so early on in their business. The importance of networking to attract the ideal client. They talk about what went into their decision to invest in inventory. Providing a look that really embodies your brand. They have developed a relationship with several art agencies over the years. Dealing with the tricky business of insurance for the artworks in the house. The condition of all the items that they bring into a house is as new because nobody ever lives in their show-homes. At this point in their business, they don't stage homes that people are living in already. The number of projects they are able to deal with in one month. The cost of an average project that they do, and the kind of net profit margin that they work towards. They have included cancellation charges in their contract. Some of the differences between interior design and home staging. Home staging is a really new thing in the UK. Home staging has more to do with real estate than with interior design. About their go-to team for doing renovations. This particular line of work is all about relationships. How they manage their time, to fit it all in. A small business is all about prioritizing and delegating. Some of the suppliers that they work with, in the UK. The work is very hands-on and either Michele or Amber will always be present on site. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Polly Williams #88 Jo Buckerfield #320 Rachel Laxer #42 Fred Berns #289 Links: Website: Yohan May IG: @yohanmayinteriors Pinterest: Yohan May Interiors For your 10% off your next purchase at Kravet, use the code W7 at the checkout. Go to Kravet. Tue, 22 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Amber Friederichs and Michele Atijas from the UK, a really dynamic duo and the principals of Yohan May Interiors, with us on the show. They specialize in very high-end, high-quality home staging, so Yohan May Interiors attracts... Welcome! Today we have Amber Friederichs and Michele Atijas from the UK, a really dynamic duo and the principals of Yohan May Interiors, with us on the show. They specialize in very high-end, high-quality home staging, so Yohan May Interiors attracts clientele and projects at the very highest level of luxury real estate in London. The two primary goals with every project in this really high-pressure market are to sell the home fast and to obtain the highest possible price. On the show today, Michele and Amber discuss their turnaround times, how they cannot concern themselves with their clients' taste and design style, and also, how they position the home for sale. Listen in today to find out more about Michele and Amber's business model, and to discover their keys to be really successful with what they do. Founded in 2015, Yohan May Interiors emerged from the collaboration of two friends, Michele Atijas and Amber Friederichs. The company started out of necessity when Amber was unable to find a home staging agency that offered the personalization and curation she was looking for.  The pair decided to work on the project on their own and spoke with a number of developers and estate agents. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. They decided to call the company Yohan May after Amber's late father, Johann, and Michele's late mother, Maj, whom they credit with their passion for interiors. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Michele and Amber discuss the systems they use for their incredibly quick turnaround time. About their free site visits and what they entail. Their projects usually involve staging the entire house and they often deal with foreign investors. They always try to provide a flexible service. How they managed to attract so many high-end clients so early on in their business. The importance of networking to attract the ideal client. They talk about what went into their decision to invest in inventory. Providing a look that really embodies your brand. They have developed a relationship with several art agencies over the years. Dealing with the tricky business of insurance for the artworks in the house. The condition of all the items that they bring into a house is as new because nobody ever lives in their show-homes. At this point in their business, they don't stage homes that people are living in already. The number of projects they are able to deal with in one month. The cost of an average project that they do, and the kind of net profit margin that they work towards. They have included cancellation charges in their contract. Some of the differences between interior design and home staging. Home staging is a really new thing in the UK. Home staging has more to do with real estate than with interior design. About their go-to team for doing renovations. This particular line of work is all about relationships. How they manage their time, to fit it all in. A small business is all about prioritizing and delegating. Some of the suppliers that they work with, in the UK. The work is very hands-on and either Michele or Amber will always be present on site. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Polly Williams #88 Jo Buckerfield #320 Rachel Laxer #42 Fred Berns #289 Links: Website: Yohan May IG: @yohanmayinteriors Pinterest: Yohan May Interiors For your 10% off your next purchase at Kravet, use the code W7 at the checkout. Go to Kravet. Welcome! Today we have Amber Friederichs and Michele Atijas from the UK, a really dynamic duo and the principals of Yohan May Interiors, with us on the show. They specialize in very high-end, high-quality home staging, so Yohan May Interiors attracts clientele and projects at the very highest level of luxury real estate in London. The two primary goals with every project in this really high-pressure market are to sell the home fast and to obtain the highest possible price. On the show today, Michele and Amber discuss their turnaround times, how they cannot concern themselves with their clients' taste and design style, and also, how they position the home for sale. Listen in today to find out more about Michele and Amber's business model, and to discover their keys to be really successful with what they do.

Founded in 2015, Yohan May Interiors emerged from the collaboration of two friends, Michele Atijas and Amber Friederichs.

The company started out of necessity when Amber was unable to find a home staging agency that offered the personalization and curation she was looking for.  The pair decided to work on the project on their own and spoke with a number of developers and estate agents. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

They decided to call the company Yohan May after Amber's late father, Johann, and Michele's late mother, Maj, whom they credit with their passion for interiors. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Michele and Amber discuss the systems they use for their incredibly quick turnaround time.
  • About their free site visits and what they entail.
  • Their projects usually involve staging the entire house and they often deal with foreign investors.
  • They always try to provide a flexible service.
  • How they managed to attract so many high-end clients so early on in their business.
  • The importance of networking to attract the ideal client.
  • They talk about what went into their decision to invest in inventory.
  • Providing a look that really embodies your brand.
  • They have developed a relationship with several art agencies over the years.
  • Dealing with the tricky business of insurance for the artworks in the house.
  • The condition of all the items that they bring into a house is as new because nobody ever lives in their show-homes.
  • At this point in their business, they don't stage homes that people are living in already.
  • The number of projects they are able to deal with in one month.
  • The cost of an average project that they do, and the kind of net profit margin that they work towards.
  • They have included cancellation charges in their contract.
  • Some of the differences between interior design and home staging.
  • Home staging is a really new thing in the UK.
  • Home staging has more to do with real estate than with interior design.
  • About their go-to team for doing renovations.
  • This particular line of work is all about relationships.
  • How they manage their time, to fit it all in.
  • A small business is all about prioritizing and delegating.
  • Some of the suppliers that they work with, in the UK.
  • The work is very hands-on and either Michele or Amber will always be present on site.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Polly Williams #88

Jo Buckerfield #320

Rachel Laxer #42

Fred Berns #289

Links:

Website: Yohan May

IG: @yohanmayinteriors

Pinterest: Yohan May Interiors

For your 10% off your next purchase at Kravet, use the code W7 at the checkout. Go to Kravet.

]]> 5016 no 395: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/395-power-talk-friday-michele-williams-financial-health-checklist-for-your-interior-design-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really excited to have Michele Williams back on the show for the third time today! (She previously appeared in episodes #137 and #180.) Michele is the owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting, she's a certified Profit First Coach, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Michele was one of the guest-speakers at LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tour in High Point last October. During her presentation Michele had everyone do a very eye-opening exercise, designed to help business owners dial in on what's really important with their finances so that their business can become more successful and profitable. We have decided to share this exercise with you on the show today. It's a really good thinking point and you're going to have to answer some questions. If you don't score too well with your answers, it is an indicator that you may need some help, so listen in carefully to find out how to increase the profitability and success of your business. Having worked in the interior design industry for more than 18 years, Michele is fiercely committed to helping each business owner attain and maintain profitability. She empowers her creative clients by not only building confidence to charge what they are worth but by sharing education and systems for money management and financial awareness. With a degree from the University of South Carolina in management information systems and ten years of product development on financial software at Dun & Bradstreet Software, Michele has the ability to mix the logical and creative aspects of a business with ease. She is a Profit First certified coach and hosts the popular podcast, Profit Is A Choice. Michele is a sought after speaker and coach known for her straight forward but grace-filled approach delivered with a healthy dose of love. Listen in today to find out what to do if you really need to change the trajectory of your business. Show highlights: Don't let this exercise scare you, because if you're capable of working as an interior designer, you will be capable of getting to grips with your finances. There are certain numbers and indicators in your business that will paint a very clear picture of where you are at. You can download this Financial Health Check-Up exercise, at no cost, from Michele's website at Scarlet Thread Consulting. It's really important to have only business transactions running through your business accounts. Know your total sales. Have you created a clear sales goal for the year? For the month? For the day? Why Michele is such a great fan of QuickBooks accounting system. Michele has a course called Understanding Your Financials. It's a tool to help you to understand where to place your focus. Where you can start- right now! Become the boss of your money. What is your gross profit margin? And how does it fit towards your goal? Michele gives the ideal gross profit goal. Are financial reports maintained and analyzed regularly? The goal in all of this is to allow you to make decisions and to find errors early. Defining where the money is coming in at the highest rate and allowing your company to be in alignment with that. We have defined our top two profit centers and have all company goals aligned to maintain them. Who are my top two clients and income? Spending your resources in a way that brings you top dollar. We have set aside funds for owner's pay. How does this fit in with your net profit goals? Why Michele writes herself a salary cheque every single month. We're aware of payroll expenses and have a plan to always have funds available. Just in case something unforeseen happens. We know our average monthly expenses and we watch them closely. Remember that cash doesn't flow in and out at the same rate every month, so you need to be saving every month and managing your expenses well. We have a bank and credit card reconciliation process that is followed monthly. Don't rely entirely on your bookkeeper. Look at every transaction, in and out of the bank and the credit card. We have a process for determining the need for non-budgeted purposes in our company. Setting company values, a structure, and a determination to reduce impulse buys. We have a yearly budget that we track back to regularly. We have an ideal client description and a betting process that we use before we agree to work with anyone. Working with the wrong client will cost you money (or a bit of who you are) every single time. We have implemented and used a cash management system. Making choices that put you in control of the money you spend. (A cash management system is something like a Profit First system and not like QuickBooks- that's a financial management system.) We regularly considered the tax implications of our company financials. Knowing what your taxes are based upon. Peter Lang is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book. He is a CPA who works ONLY with interior designers. His goal is for you, as an interior designer, to really understand your finances. We have ongoing conversations with our accountant, our bookkeeper, and our financial coach. Ask for what you need and speak up if there's something you don't understand. We have confidence in the achievability of our financial goals. If your confidence is low, ask yourself why. Look for the areas that you still need to work on in your business. We are careful not to co-mingle funds in any way. (Between personal and business.) This will help you get a clearer picture of your financials. What will be happening at LuAnn's event LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation. Links: Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: Scarlet Thread LinkedIn: Michele Williams Twitter: Chelebelle Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting To get Kravet's generous one-time offer of  10% off your first order of any wallpaper or trim, go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at the checkout. LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the event-brite link at Luann Nigara. To find out more about LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation, go to LuAnn Live Fri, 18 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really excited to have Michele Williams back on the show for the third time today! (She previously appeared in and .) Michele is the owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting, she's a certified Profit First Coach, and... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really excited to have Michele Williams back on the show for the third time today! (She previously appeared in episodes #137 and #180.) Michele is the owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting, she's a certified Profit First Coach, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Michele was one of the guest-speakers at LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tour in High Point last October. During her presentation Michele had everyone do a very eye-opening exercise, designed to help business owners dial in on what's really important with their finances so that their business can become more successful and profitable. We have decided to share this exercise with you on the show today. It's a really good thinking point and you're going to have to answer some questions. If you don't score too well with your answers, it is an indicator that you may need some help, so listen in carefully to find out how to increase the profitability and success of your business. Having worked in the interior design industry for more than 18 years, Michele is fiercely committed to helping each business owner attain and maintain profitability. She empowers her creative clients by not only building confidence to charge what they are worth but by sharing education and systems for money management and financial awareness. With a degree from the University of South Carolina in management information systems and ten years of product development on financial software at Dun & Bradstreet Software, Michele has the ability to mix the logical and creative aspects of a business with ease. She is a Profit First certified coach and hosts the popular podcast, Profit Is A Choice. Michele is a sought after speaker and coach known for her straight forward but grace-filled approach delivered with a healthy dose of love. Listen in today to find out what to do if you really need to change the trajectory of your business. Show highlights: Don't let this exercise scare you, because if you're capable of working as an interior designer, you will be capable of getting to grips with your finances. There are certain numbers and indicators in your business that will paint a very clear picture of where you are at. You can download this Financial Health Check-Up exercise, at no cost, from Michele's website at Scarlet Thread Consulting. It's really important to have only business transactions running through your business accounts. Know your total sales. Have you created a clear sales goal for the year? For the month? For the day? Why Michele is such a great fan of QuickBooks accounting system. Michele has a course called Understanding Your Financials. It's a tool to help you to understand where to place your focus. Where you can start- right now! Become the boss of your money. What is your gross profit margin? And how does it fit towards your goal? Michele gives the ideal gross profit goal. Are financial reports maintained and analyzed regularly? The goal in all of this is to allow you to make decisions and to find errors early. Defining where the money is coming in at the highest rate and allowing your company to be in alignment with that. We have defined our top two profit centers and have all company goals aligned to maintain them. Who are my top two clients and income? Spending your resources in a way that brings you top dollar. We have set aside funds for owner's pay. How does this fit in with your net profit goals? Why Michele writes herself a salary cheque every single month. We're aware of payroll expenses and have a plan to always have funds available. Just in case something unforeseen happens. We know our average monthly expenses and we watch them closely. Remember that cash doesn't flow in and out at the same rate every month, so you need to be saving every month and managing your expenses well. We have a bank and credit card reconciliation process that is followed monthly. Don't rely entirely on your bookkeeper. Look at every transaction, in and out of the bank and the credit card. We have a process for determining the need for non-budgeted purposes in our company. Setting company values, a structure, and a determination to reduce impulse buys. We have a yearly budget that we track back to regularly. We have an ideal client description and a betting process that we use before we agree to work with anyone. Working with the wrong client will cost you money (or a bit of who you are) every single time. We have implemented and used a cash management system. Making choices that put you in control of the money you spend. (A cash management system is something like a Profit First system and not like QuickBooks- that's a financial management system.) We regularly considered the tax implications of our company financials. Knowing what your taxes are based upon. Peter Lang is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book. He is a CPA who works ONLY with interior designers. His goal is for you, as an interior designer, to really understand your finances. We have ongoing conversations with our accountant, our bookkeeper, and our financial coach. Ask for what you need and speak up if there's something you don't understand. We have confidence in the achievability of our financial goals. If your confidence is low, ask yourself why. Look for the areas that you still need to work on in your business. We are careful not to co-mingle funds in any way. (Between personal and business.) This will help you get a clearer picture of your financials. What will be happening at LuAnn's event LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation. Links: Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: Scarlet Thread LinkedIn: Michele Williams Twitter: Chelebelle Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting To get Kravet's generous one-time offer of  10% off your first order of any wallpaper or trim, go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at the checkout. LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the event-brite link at Luann Nigara. To find out more about LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation, go to LuAnn Live Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really excited to have Michele Williams back on the show for the third time today! (She previously appeared in episodes #137 and #180.) Michele is the owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting, she's a certified Profit First Coach, and she is also one of the co-authors in LuAnn's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business.

Michele was one of the guest-speakers at LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tour in High Point last October. During her presentation Michele had everyone do a very eye-opening exercise, designed to help business owners dial in on what's really important with their finances so that their business can become more successful and profitable. We have decided to share this exercise with you on the show today. It's a really good thinking point and you're going to have to answer some questions. If you don't score too well with your answers, it is an indicator that you may need some help, so listen in carefully to find out how to increase the profitability and success of your business.

Having worked in the interior design industry for more than 18 years, Michele is fiercely committed to helping each business owner attain and maintain profitability. She empowers her creative clients by not only building confidence to charge what they are worth but by sharing education and systems for money management and financial awareness. With a degree from the University of South Carolina in management information systems and ten years of product development on financial software at Dun & Bradstreet Software, Michele has the ability to mix the logical and creative aspects of a business with ease. She is a Profit First certified coach and hosts the popular podcast, Profit Is A Choice. Michele is a sought after speaker and coach known for her straight forward but grace-filled approach delivered with a healthy dose of love. Listen in today to find out what to do if you really need to change the trajectory of your business.

Show highlights:

  • Don't let this exercise scare you, because if you're capable of working as an interior designer, you will be capable of getting to grips with your finances.
  • There are certain numbers and indicators in your business that will paint a very clear picture of where you are at.
  • You can download this Financial Health Check-Up exercise, at no cost, from Michele's website at Scarlet Thread Consulting.
  • It's really important to have only business transactions running through your business accounts.
  • Know your total sales.
  • Have you created a clear sales goal for the year? For the month? For the day?
  • Why Michele is such a great fan of QuickBooks accounting system.
  • Michele has a course called Understanding Your Financials. It's a tool to help you to understand where to place your focus.
  • Where you can start- right now!
  • Become the boss of your money. What is your gross profit margin? And how does it fit towards your goal?
  • Michele gives the ideal gross profit goal.
  • Are financial reports maintained and analyzed regularly?
  • The goal in all of this is to allow you to make decisions and to find errors early.
  • Defining where the money is coming in at the highest rate and allowing your company to be in alignment with that. We have defined our top two profit centers and have all company goals aligned to maintain them.
  • Who are my top two clients and income? Spending your resources in a way that brings you top dollar.
  • We have set aside funds for owner's pay. How does this fit in with your net profit goals?
  • Why Michele writes herself a salary cheque every single month.
  • We're aware of payroll expenses and have a plan to always have funds available. Just in case something unforeseen happens.
  • We know our average monthly expenses and we watch them closely. Remember that cash doesn't flow in and out at the same rate every month, so you need to be saving every month and managing your expenses well.
  • We have a bank and credit card reconciliation process that is followed monthly. Don't rely entirely on your bookkeeper. Look at every transaction, in and out of the bank and the credit card.
  • We have a process for determining the need for non-budgeted purposes in our company. Setting company values, a structure, and a determination to reduce impulse buys.
  • We have a yearly budget that we track back to regularly.
  • We have an ideal client description and a betting process that we use before we agree to work with anyone. Working with the wrong client will cost you money (or a bit of who you are) every single time.
  • We have implemented and used a cash management system. Making choices that put you in control of the money you spend. (A cash management system is something like a Profit First system and not like QuickBooks- that's a financial management system.)
  • We regularly considered the tax implications of our company financials. Knowing what your taxes are based upon.
  • Peter Lang is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book. He is a CPA who works ONLY with interior designers. His goal is for you, as an interior designer, to really understand your finances.
  • We have ongoing conversations with our accountant, our bookkeeper, and our financial coach. Ask for what you need and speak up if there's something you don't understand.
  • We have confidence in the achievability of our financial goals. If your confidence is low, ask yourself why. Look for the areas that you still need to work on in your business.
  • We are careful not to co-mingle funds in any way. (Between personal and business.) This will help you get a clearer picture of your financials.
  • What will be happening at LuAnn's event LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation.

Links:

Website: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Instagram: Scarlet Thread

LinkedIn: Michele Williams

Twitter: Chelebelle

Financial Health Checklist PDF: Scarlet Thread Consulting

To get Kravet's generous one-time offer of  10% off your first order of any wallpaper or trim, go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at the checkout.

LuAnn's 3rd birthday party for the podcast is coming up and Kravet is hosting the party! It will be on February the 5th at the Kravet Showroom at the D&D Building in New York City. Please RSVP through the event-brite link at Luann Nigara.

To find out more about LuAnn Live- It's About The Conversation, go to LuAnn Live

]]> 5235 no 394: Carole Marcotte: Interior Designer, Retailer, Marketer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/394-carole-marcotte-interior-designer-retailer-marketer Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We're really happy to have Carole Marcotte, from Form and Function, in Raleigh NC, join us on the show today. Carole followed a number of different paths while raising her three children, prior to officially starting her design business a little more than ten years ago in 2008. In 2013 she had the genius idea to expand her business to include a storefront with classic and funky vintage pieces alongside new Made-In-America and up-cycled gift selections. On today's show, Carole talks to us about her niche, and she also explains how she was honored as one of Midtown Magazine's "Thirty People You Need To Know" for the fantastic work she's done in her community. Listen in today to find out about Carole and how she guides people, and gives them a fresh, modern spin, with things they already have. Carole was raised in Canada and her career began in marketing and special events for a private women’s club in Toronto. After that, she worked at a radio station and she then moved to North Carolina in 1987. An old house renovation fueled her interest in architecture and design and she “unofficially” began to help friends and family with design work for many years, while also operating a catering and special events business and acting on local stages for more than twenty years. She also sat on many non-profit boards, most notably conceiving of and planning Raleigh’s largest public art project (The Raleigh Red Wolf Ramble) while Co-Chair of the City of Raleigh Arts Commission. Listen in to find out more. Show Highlights: Carole talks about her niche, what it means to her, and how she arrived at the clarity of it. The way that Carole's firm leads with her really meaningful process. Finding and reusing items from all over the house is part of Carole's process. Adding the final layer and stylizing the house to completion, and then taking photographs, is important to Carole. The kind of look that Carole uses in her design really varies a lot. Carole guides people and gives them a fresh, modern spin on what they already have. Carole always honors people's 'non-negotiable' items, and figures out a way to place them, no matter how absurd they are. Reusing items is more sustainable for the planet. Carol talks about her retail store. The store is about sixty percent vintage and forty percent new products- and it has a really funky vibe! The store is a great marketing tool for Carole's design services. Talking about different kinds of design business models. Shifting her business slowly towards a more sustainable model. Carole talks to us about The Design District, in Raleigh, that she pro-actively put together. Carole has really brought people together with her Design District map. Links: Website: Form And Functionraleigh Facebook: Form And Functionraleigh Instagram: Form And Functionraleigh Pinterest: F And Fraleigh  The website for the Design District map:  Design District Raleigh Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Kate Ahl #331 Fred Berns #174 Laurel Bern #342 Nancy Ganzekaufer #15 Claire Jefford #237 Nicole Heymer #125 and #317 Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310 LuAnn’s Upcoming Events: Philly Jan 30 Lucas Alexander showroom February 8th CEU Summit 2019 run by ASID NY Metro Feb 12 in the Boston Design Center at Waterworks And of course, the birthday party at Kravet. Tue, 15 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We're really happy to have Carole Marcotte, from Form and Function, in Raleigh NC, join us on the show today. Carole followed a number of different paths while raising her three children, prior... Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We're really happy to have Carole Marcotte, from Form and Function, in Raleigh NC, join us on the show today. Carole followed a number of different paths while raising her three children, prior to officially starting her design business a little more than ten years ago in 2008. In 2013 she had the genius idea to expand her business to include a storefront with classic and funky vintage pieces alongside new Made-In-America and up-cycled gift selections. On today's show, Carole talks to us about her niche, and she also explains how she was honored as one of Midtown Magazine's "Thirty People You Need To Know" for the fantastic work she's done in her community. Listen in today to find out about Carole and how she guides people, and gives them a fresh, modern spin, with things they already have. Carole was raised in Canada and her career began in marketing and special events for a private women’s club in Toronto. After that, she worked at a radio station and she then moved to North Carolina in 1987. An old house renovation fueled her interest in architecture and design and she “unofficially” began to help friends and family with design work for many years, while also operating a catering and special events business and acting on local stages for more than twenty years. She also sat on many non-profit boards, most notably conceiving of and planning Raleigh’s largest public art project (The Raleigh Red Wolf Ramble) while Co-Chair of the City of Raleigh Arts Commission. Listen in to find out more. Show Highlights: Carole talks about her niche, what it means to her, and how she arrived at the clarity of it. The way that Carole's firm leads with her really meaningful process. Finding and reusing items from all over the house is part of Carole's process. Adding the final layer and stylizing the house to completion, and then taking photographs, is important to Carole. The kind of look that Carole uses in her design really varies a lot. Carole guides people and gives them a fresh, modern spin on what they already have. Carole always honors people's 'non-negotiable' items, and figures out a way to place them, no matter how absurd they are. Reusing items is more sustainable for the planet. Carol talks about her retail store. The store is about sixty percent vintage and forty percent new products- and it has a really funky vibe! The store is a great marketing tool for Carole's design services. Talking about different kinds of design business models. Shifting her business slowly towards a more sustainable model. Carole talks to us about The Design District, in Raleigh, that she pro-actively put together. Carole has really brought people together with her Design District map. Links: Website: Form And Functionraleigh Facebook: Form And Functionraleigh Instagram: Form And Functionraleigh Pinterest: F And Fraleigh  The website for the Design District map:  Design District Raleigh Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Kate Ahl #331 Fred Berns #174 Laurel Bern #342 Nancy Ganzekaufer #15 Claire Jefford #237 Nicole Heymer #125 and #317 Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310 LuAnn’s Upcoming Events: Philly Jan 30 Lucas Alexander showroom February 8th CEU Summit 2019 run by ASID NY Metro Feb 12 in the Boston Design Center at Waterworks And of course, the birthday party at Kravet. Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We're really happy to have Carole Marcotte, from Form and Function, in Raleigh NC, join us on the show today. Carole followed a number of different paths while raising her three children, prior to officially starting her design business a little more than ten years ago in 2008.

In 2013 she had the genius idea to expand her business to include a storefront with classic and funky vintage pieces alongside new Made-In-America and up-cycled gift selections. On today's show, Carole talks to us about her niche, and she also explains how she was honored as one of Midtown Magazine's "Thirty People You Need To Know" for the fantastic work she's done in her community. Listen in today to find out about Carole and how she guides people, and gives them a fresh, modern spin, with things they already have.

Carole was raised in Canada and her career began in marketing and special events for a private women’s club in Toronto. After that, she worked at a radio station and she then moved to North Carolina in 1987. An old house renovation fueled her interest in architecture and design and she “unofficially” began to help friends and family with design work for many years, while also operating a catering and special events business and acting on local stages for more than twenty years. She also sat on many non-profit boards, most notably conceiving of and planning Raleigh’s largest public art project (The Raleigh Red Wolf Ramble) while Co-Chair of the City of Raleigh Arts Commission. Listen in to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Carole talks about her niche, what it means to her, and how she arrived at the clarity of it.
  • The way that Carole's firm leads with her really meaningful process.
  • Finding and reusing items from all over the house is part of Carole's process.
  • Adding the final layer and stylizing the house to completion, and then taking photographs, is important to Carole.
  • The kind of look that Carole uses in her design really varies a lot.
  • Carole guides people and gives them a fresh, modern spin on what they already have.
  • Carole always honors people's 'non-negotiable' items, and figures out a way to place them, no matter how absurd they are.
  • Reusing items is more sustainable for the planet.
  • Carol talks about her retail store.
  • The store is about sixty percent vintage and forty percent new products- and it has a really funky vibe!
  • The store is a great marketing tool for Carole's design services.
  • Talking about different kinds of design business models.
  • Shifting her business slowly towards a more sustainable model.
  • Carole talks to us about The Design District, in Raleigh, that she pro-actively put together.
  • Carole has really brought people together with her Design District map.

Links:

Website: Form And Functionraleigh

Facebook: Form And Functionraleigh

Instagram: Form And Functionraleigh

Pinterest: F And Fraleigh 

The website for the Design District map:  Design District Raleigh

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Kate Ahl #331

Fred Berns #174

Laurel Bern #342

Nancy Ganzekaufer #15

Claire Jefford #237

Nicole Heymer #125 and #317

Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310

LuAnn’s Upcoming Events:

Philly Jan 30 Lucas Alexander showroom

February 8th CEU Summit 2019 run by ASID NY Metro

Feb 12 in the Boston Design Center at Waterworks

And of course, the birthday party at Kravet.

]]> 4506 no 393: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 12 Ways Interior Designers Sabotage Their Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/393-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-12-ways-interior-designers-sabotage-their-business Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are really happy to have the inimitable Fred Berns back on the show with us once again! Fred has been our guest on the podcast more often than anyone else in all of the almost three years that the show has been on the air! He has previously appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337 and he is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is always so intentional and actionable. Observation is one of Fred's superpowers and he always adds an extra layer by noticing the things that are done well and could be done even better, in any business process. Fred has discovered that success leaves clues, but mistakes multiply, so today he will be talking to us about The Dirty Dozen, the twelve most common things that interior designers tend to do to sabotage their own success, that they really need to avoid. Listen in today and learn about the habits that cause harm to professionals. Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA. Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million dollars marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus. Show highlights: We're so busy looking for success steps, strategies, and shortcuts that we tend to overlook the fact that there are obstacles, roadblocks, and silly mistakes that derail too many design professionals too often. Be careful of following the followers and not the leaders in the design industry. Remember that you make a great you, but a lousy somebody else! Fishing for marlins, not minnows. Too many designers sell themselves short by thinking too small, too often, and they're aiming too low. They under-value and under-promote themselves, and they charge too little for their services. You're an expert, so know your value. Many designers fall into the trap of giving away their time and Fred believes that really diminishes your value, as a design professional. The most financially successful designer's charge for all of their time, all of the time. You cannot be taken advantage of if you don't allow it, so manage your relationships and take charge of them. Majoring in minors. Stop wasting your time and becoming distracted. What you will gain from including Fred's Daily Dozen Activity and his Five O'clock Focus in your daily routine. Plan your next day ahead with Fred's MVP List (Most Valuable and Productive use of your time activities). You need to be cross-selling, up-selling and doing add-on selling all the time by educating your clients about all you can do. Your work does not sell itself- it's way too competitive out there. Thinking your work sells itself is old-school thinking. It's the kind of thinking that could kill your career. Bogus Bios and Wimpy Websites- Bios that block you rather than boost you and disqualify you from the kinds of clients and projects you want and deserve. And websites that don't promote all that you do and how well you do it. (Check out Website Onceover) Your bio really has got to rock because it's your most vital, versatile, and viable marketing tool. (See Bio Briefing) Don't go it alone. Do what you do best and delegate the rest. Viewing price objections as obstacles. Learn to use price objections as opportunities. Fred's Fabulous Fallback for price objections. Don't futz with your fees. Hold firm on your fees or you won't come across as professional. Charging too little is another thing that will sabotage your success. You need to be in control your business rather than the business controlling you. Fred is coming to New Jersey for the LuAnn Nigara Live-It's About the Conversation event. He is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, which will be launched on March 30th at this event! Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Episode #391- Live On Air Coaching Call- Rumble Interiors Links and contacts: Things I learned from Fred Bern: The Dirty Dozen For coaching on how to avoid or overcome these "Success Saboteurs:"  Coach Call For coaching on how to upgrade your website content: Website Onceover For coaching on crafting your Killer Bio: Bio Briefing Fred’s email: fred@fredberns.com Fred’s phone number: (303) 589-3013 About our birthday party: Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us! Go to Luann Nigara and click on Live Event. Fri, 11 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are really happy to have the inimitable Fred Berns back on the show with us once again! Fred has been our guest on the podcast more often than anyone else in all of the almost three years that the show... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are really happy to have the inimitable Fred Berns back on the show with us once again! Fred has been our guest on the podcast more often than anyone else in all of the almost three years that the show has been on the air! He has previously appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337 and he is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is always so intentional and actionable. Observation is one of Fred's superpowers and he always adds an extra layer by noticing the things that are done well and could be done even better, in any business process. Fred has discovered that success leaves clues, but mistakes multiply, so today he will be talking to us about The Dirty Dozen, the twelve most common things that interior designers tend to do to sabotage their own success, that they really need to avoid. Listen in today and learn about the habits that cause harm to professionals. Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA. Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million dollars marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus. Show highlights: We're so busy looking for success steps, strategies, and shortcuts that we tend to overlook the fact that there are obstacles, roadblocks, and silly mistakes that derail too many design professionals too often. Be careful of following the followers and not the leaders in the design industry. Remember that you make a great you, but a lousy somebody else! Fishing for marlins, not minnows. Too many designers sell themselves short by thinking too small, too often, and they're aiming too low. They under-value and under-promote themselves, and they charge too little for their services. You're an expert, so know your value. Many designers fall into the trap of giving away their time and Fred believes that really diminishes your value, as a design professional. The most financially successful designer's charge for all of their time, all of the time. You cannot be taken advantage of if you don't allow it, so manage your relationships and take charge of them. Majoring in minors. Stop wasting your time and becoming distracted. What you will gain from including Fred's Daily Dozen Activity and his Five O'clock Focus in your daily routine. Plan your next day ahead with Fred's MVP List (Most Valuable and Productive use of your time activities). You need to be cross-selling, up-selling and doing add-on selling all the time by educating your clients about all you can do. Your work does not sell itself- it's way too competitive out there. Thinking your work sells itself is old-school thinking. It's the kind of thinking that could kill your career. Bogus Bios and Wimpy Websites- Bios that block you rather than boost you and disqualify you from the kinds of clients and projects you want and deserve. And websites that don't promote all that you do and how well you do it. (Check out Website Onceover) Your bio really has got to rock because it's your most vital, versatile, and viable marketing tool. (See Bio Briefing) Don't go it alone. Do what you do best and delegate the rest. Viewing price objections as obstacles. Learn to use price objections as opportunities. Fred's Fabulous Fallback for price objections. Don't futz with your fees. Hold firm on your fees or you won't come across as professional. Charging too little is another thing that will sabotage your success. You need to be in control your business rather than the business controlling you. Fred is coming to New Jersey for the LuAnn Nigara Live-It's About the Conversation event. He is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, which will be launched on March 30th at this event! Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Episode #391- Live On Air Coaching Call- Rumble Interiors Links and contacts: Things I learned from Fred Bern: The Dirty Dozen For coaching on how to avoid or overcome these "Success Saboteurs:"  Coach Call For coaching on how to upgrade your website content: Website Onceover For coaching on crafting your Killer Bio: Bio Briefing Fred’s email: fred@fredberns.com Fred’s phone number: (303) 589-3013 About our birthday party: Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us! Go to Luann Nigara and click on Live Event. Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are really happy to have the inimitable Fred Berns back on the show with us once again! Fred has been our guest on the podcast more often than anyone else in all of the almost three years that the show has been on the air! He has previously appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337 and he is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is always so intentional and actionable. Observation is one of Fred's superpowers and he always adds an extra layer by noticing the things that are done well and could be done even better, in any business process. Fred has discovered that success leaves clues, but mistakes multiply, so today he will be talking to us about The Dirty Dozen, the twelve most common things that interior designers tend to do to sabotage their own success, that they really need to avoid. Listen in today and learn about the habits that cause harm to professionals.

Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA.

Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media.  He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million dollars marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus.

Show highlights:

We're so busy looking for success steps, strategies, and shortcuts that we tend to overlook the fact that there are obstacles, roadblocks, and silly mistakes that derail too many design professionals too often.

Be careful of following the followers and not the leaders in the design industry. Remember that you make a great you, but a lousy somebody else!

Fishing for marlins, not minnows. Too many designers sell themselves short by thinking too small, too often, and they're aiming too low. They under-value and under-promote themselves, and they charge too little for their services.

You're an expert, so know your value. Many designers fall into the trap of giving away their time and Fred believes that really diminishes your value, as a design professional. The most financially successful designer's charge for all of their time, all of the time.

You cannot be taken advantage of if you don't allow it, so manage your relationships and take charge of them.

Majoring in minors. Stop wasting your time and becoming distracted.

What you will gain from including Fred's Daily Dozen Activity and his Five O'clock Focus in your daily routine.

Plan your next day ahead with Fred's MVP List (Most Valuable and Productive use of your time activities).

You need to be cross-selling, up-selling and doing add-on selling all the time by educating your clients about all you can do.

Your work does not sell itself- it's way too competitive out there. Thinking your work sells itself is old-school thinking. It's the kind of thinking that could kill your career.

Bogus Bios and Wimpy Websites- Bios that block you rather than boost you and disqualify you from the kinds of clients and projects you want and deserve. And websites that don't promote all that you do and how well you do it. (Check out Website Onceover)

Your bio really has got to rock because it's your most vital, versatile, and viable marketing tool. (See Bio Briefing)

Don't go it alone. Do what you do best and delegate the rest.

Viewing price objections as obstacles. Learn to use price objections as opportunities.

Fred's Fabulous Fallback for price objections.

Don't futz with your fees. Hold firm on your fees or you won't come across as professional.

Charging too little is another thing that will sabotage your success.

You need to be in control your business rather than the business controlling you.

Fred is coming to New Jersey for the LuAnn Nigara Live-It's About the Conversation event. He is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, which will be launched on March 30th at this event!

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Episode #391- Live On Air Coaching Call- Rumble Interiors

Links and contacts:

Things I learned from Fred Bern: The Dirty Dozen

For coaching on how to avoid or overcome these "Success Saboteurs:"  Coach Call

For coaching on how to upgrade your website content: Website Onceover

For coaching on crafting your Killer Bio: Bio Briefing

Fred’s email: fred@fredberns.com

Fred’s phone number: (303) 589-3013

About our birthday party:

Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us! Go to Luann Nigara and click on Live Event.

]]> 3796 no 392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/392-dala-al-fuwaires-commercial-designer-focused-business-owner Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! Dala Al Fuwaires, the Principal of FJI Design in Scottsdale, Arizona, will be joining us on the show today. Dala is a dreamer, designer, and doer, and she has begun to niche and focus her firm, FJI Design, in the food and beverage industry. Dala runs her business with very clear strategies for building her client base, for managing and motivating her employees, and also for making a name for herself and for her firm in her community. Listen in today to find out what she has to say about getting yourself into the driver's seat, in order to create a really successful business. Dala Al-Fuwaires, Principal of FJI, a hospitality design firm with a sweet spot for food and beverage interiors, is a dreamer, designer, and doer. With over a decade of experience in the interior design field, Dala has worked on hospitality, retail, and residential design projects ranging in size from boutique to national rollouts. Dala graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Arizona State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Purdue University. Outside of design, Dala can be found exploring the world, hosting dinner parties for friends and family, remodeling her home, and photographing all of the above. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: About sixty percent of Dala's business is food and beverage related and Dala really wants each of her projects to be it's own thing, in terms of style. The importance of having good design and lighting in restaurants. Dala really creates an experience for restauranteurs, and she even has a specific playlist of music that she plays when doing a presentation, to set the right tone. The intentional plan that Dala had in place for making money, when she first opened her business. Dala spent eight hours per day, for a whole week, reaching out to the people that she already knew. Dala talks about the High Stakes Mastermind Group she joined in her first year in business. Why Dala offered her services, pro bono, to one new (or growing), local food and beverage business per year. Dala gives the details of the Design It Forward competition she's been running for two years. How Dala informed her community about the pro bono design services she was offering. The applications for Dala's competition open in June of each year. How the book Profit First, by Mike Mikalowitz, really helped Dala to strategize effectively, and to keep her business expenses low, in her first year in business. Setting herself up on Payroll, so that Dala is actually an employee of her business, in order to maximize her profit. The importance of having enough money put away to keep your business running for at least three months, in case of an emergency. Dala's really awesome way of motivating her team to reach their quarterly goals. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Candy Scott #279 Claire Jefford #237 Michele Williams #180 Chris Kofitsas #152 Links: Website: FJI Design Instagram: FJI Design Facebook: FJI Design Pinterest: FJI Design LinkedIn: FJI Design About our birthday party: Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us! Tue, 08 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! Dala Al Fuwaires, the Principal of FJI Design in Scottsdale, Arizona, will be joining us on the show today. Dala is a dreamer, designer, and doer, and she has begun to niche and focus her firm,... Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! Dala Al Fuwaires, the Principal of FJI Design in Scottsdale, Arizona, will be joining us on the show today. Dala is a dreamer, designer, and doer, and she has begun to niche and focus her firm, FJI Design, in the food and beverage industry. Dala runs her business with very clear strategies for building her client base, for managing and motivating her employees, and also for making a name for herself and for her firm in her community. Listen in today to find out what she has to say about getting yourself into the driver's seat, in order to create a really successful business. Dala Al-Fuwaires, Principal of FJI, a hospitality design firm with a sweet spot for food and beverage interiors, is a dreamer, designer, and doer. With over a decade of experience in the interior design field, Dala has worked on hospitality, retail, and residential design projects ranging in size from boutique to national rollouts. Dala graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Arizona State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Purdue University. Outside of design, Dala can be found exploring the world, hosting dinner parties for friends and family, remodeling her home, and photographing all of the above. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: About sixty percent of Dala's business is food and beverage related and Dala really wants each of her projects to be it's own thing, in terms of style. The importance of having good design and lighting in restaurants. Dala really creates an experience for restauranteurs, and she even has a specific playlist of music that she plays when doing a presentation, to set the right tone. The intentional plan that Dala had in place for making money, when she first opened her business. Dala spent eight hours per day, for a whole week, reaching out to the people that she already knew. Dala talks about the High Stakes Mastermind Group she joined in her first year in business. Why Dala offered her services, pro bono, to one new (or growing), local food and beverage business per year. Dala gives the details of the Design It Forward competition she's been running for two years. How Dala informed her community about the pro bono design services she was offering. The applications for Dala's competition open in June of each year. How the book Profit First, by Mike Mikalowitz, really helped Dala to strategize effectively, and to keep her business expenses low, in her first year in business. Setting herself up on Payroll, so that Dala is actually an employee of her business, in order to maximize her profit. The importance of having enough money put away to keep your business running for at least three months, in case of an emergency. Dala's really awesome way of motivating her team to reach their quarterly goals. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Candy Scott #279 Claire Jefford #237 Michele Williams #180 Chris Kofitsas #152 Links: Website: FJI Design Instagram: FJI Design Facebook: FJI Design Pinterest: FJI Design LinkedIn: FJI Design About our birthday party: Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us! Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! Dala Al Fuwaires, the Principal of FJI Design in Scottsdale, Arizona, will be joining us on the show today. Dala is a dreamer, designer, and doer, and she has begun to niche and focus her firm, FJI Design, in the food and beverage industry. Dala runs her business with very clear strategies for building her client base, for managing and motivating her employees, and also for making a name for herself and for her firm in her community. Listen in today to find out what she has to say about getting yourself into the driver's seat, in order to create a really successful business.

Dala Al-Fuwaires, Principal of FJI, a hospitality design firm with a sweet spot for food and beverage interiors, is a dreamer, designer, and doer. With over a decade of experience in the interior design field, Dala has worked on hospitality, retail, and residential design projects ranging in size from boutique to national rollouts. Dala graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Arizona State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Purdue University. Outside of design, Dala can be found exploring the world, hosting dinner parties for friends and family, remodeling her home, and photographing all of the above. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • About sixty percent of Dala's business is food and beverage related and Dala really wants each of her projects to be it's own thing, in terms of style.
  • The importance of having good design and lighting in restaurants.
  • Dala really creates an experience for restauranteurs, and she even has a specific playlist of music that she plays when doing a presentation, to set the right tone.
  • The intentional plan that Dala had in place for making money, when she first opened her business.
  • Dala spent eight hours per day, for a whole week, reaching out to the people that she already knew.
  • Dala talks about the High Stakes Mastermind Group she joined in her first year in business.
  • Why Dala offered her services, pro bono, to one new (or growing), local food and beverage business per year.
  • Dala gives the details of the Design It Forward competition she's been running for two years.
  • How Dala informed her community about the pro bono design services she was offering.
  • The applications for Dala's competition open in June of each year.
  • How the book Profit First, by Mike Mikalowitz, really helped Dala to strategize effectively, and to keep her business expenses low, in her first year in business.
  • Setting herself up on Payroll, so that Dala is actually an employee of her business, in order to maximize her profit.
  • The importance of having enough money put away to keep your business running for at least three months, in case of an emergency.
  • Dala's really awesome way of motivating her team to reach their quarterly goals.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Candy Scott #279

Claire Jefford #237

Michele Williams #180

Chris Kofitsas #152

Links:

Website: FJI Design

Instagram: FJI Design

Facebook: FJI Design

Pinterest: FJI Design

LinkedIn: FJI Design

About our birthday party:

Sponsor, Kravet Inc, is hosting the 3rd birthday party for the podcast! So, if you are coming into New York for NY Now in the 1st week of February, or you want to come just for the party, please join us on Feb 5th at the Kravet showroom, in New York,  from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Go to Luann Nigara and look for the event rsvp—the party is free and the more the merrier so please plan to join us!

]]> 3840 no 391: Power Talk Friday: Live On Air Coaching Call: Rumble Interiors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/391-power-talk-friday-live-on-air-coaching-call-rumble-interiors  Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have the first of our brand new on-air coaching shows and Stephanie Castillo, of Rumble Interiors in Washington State, will be joining us. Stephanie is a new designer and although she is still finishing her degree, she does have business experience. On the show today Stephanie will be asking LuAnn some really interesting questions about how to set up vendor accounts and setting up accounts with the trades. They talk about whether or not Stephanie should niche her firm, and if she needs a receivership for the products she sells to clients. They also have a discussion about a collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers. Listen in to LuAnn's excellent coaching session with Stephanie on the show today. Stephanie has been a hairstylist for 27 years and she's worn many hats in that industry, Stylist, Educator, Manager, and Recruiter. She has two kids in grade school and she volunteers as the Board President for the Ellensburg Downtown Association in Washington state. As her body was beginning to get tired from her work, Stephanie began thinking about what else she could do. As interior design has always been a love of hers, she enrolled at the New York School of Art and Design and started taking classes online. Now that she's close to finishing up with her studies, Stephanie has gone ahead with the process of starting her own business, Rumble Interiors. She has done some practice work of what has become re-styles which involves taking someone's house and using what they already have and reworking it. And this really brings her so much joy!  To set herself up for success, she has been reaching out to mentors, like LuAnn, because she is ready to learn about all the details of running an interior design business. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Stephanie has her license and she has her social media sites set up, but she does not yet have her website set up. Stephanie has a blog that you can find via Instagram. The collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers. Stephanie is into re-styles and would like to get into feng shui. The design styles of Stephanie and her partners are very different. Things to bear in mind when leasing a design space in partnership with someone else. Finding the best vendors and tradespeople. How to establish great relationships with sales reps. The need for having a receivership for your shipped goods. Finding a good and reputable receivership. Running your business like a big-girl one, even if you're still a baby designer. Do you really need licenses and accreditations? How to work out how much to charge when you're starting out as a designer. Is having a niche the best way to go? Deciding whether to go to design school or not. Why you really need to have a website for your business. Creating content for your website. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer, Ep 125 - Curio Electric, Ep 387 Links: Facebook: Rumble Interiors Instagram: Rumble Interiors, mangossalon, @Stephanieatmangossalon on Instagram Fri, 04 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara  Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have the first of our brand new on-air coaching shows and Stephanie Castillo, of Rumble Interiors in Washington State, will be joining us. Stephanie is a new designer and although she is still finishing her...  Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have the first of our brand new on-air coaching shows and Stephanie Castillo, of Rumble Interiors in Washington State, will be joining us. Stephanie is a new designer and although she is still finishing her degree, she does have business experience. On the show today Stephanie will be asking LuAnn some really interesting questions about how to set up vendor accounts and setting up accounts with the trades. They talk about whether or not Stephanie should niche her firm, and if she needs a receivership for the products she sells to clients. They also have a discussion about a collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers. Listen in to LuAnn's excellent coaching session with Stephanie on the show today. Stephanie has been a hairstylist for 27 years and she's worn many hats in that industry, Stylist, Educator, Manager, and Recruiter. She has two kids in grade school and she volunteers as the Board President for the Ellensburg Downtown Association in Washington state. As her body was beginning to get tired from her work, Stephanie began thinking about what else she could do. As interior design has always been a love of hers, she enrolled at the New York School of Art and Design and started taking classes online. Now that she's close to finishing up with her studies, Stephanie has gone ahead with the process of starting her own business, Rumble Interiors. She has done some practice work of what has become re-styles which involves taking someone's house and using what they already have and reworking it. And this really brings her so much joy!  To set herself up for success, she has been reaching out to mentors, like LuAnn, because she is ready to learn about all the details of running an interior design business. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Stephanie has her license and she has her social media sites set up, but she does not yet have her website set up. Stephanie has a blog that you can find via Instagram. The collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers. Stephanie is into re-styles and would like to get into feng shui. The design styles of Stephanie and her partners are very different. Things to bear in mind when leasing a design space in partnership with someone else. Finding the best vendors and tradespeople. How to establish great relationships with sales reps. The need for having a receivership for your shipped goods. Finding a good and reputable receivership. Running your business like a big-girl one, even if you're still a baby designer. Do you really need licenses and accreditations? How to work out how much to charge when you're starting out as a designer. Is having a niche the best way to go? Deciding whether to go to design school or not. Why you really need to have a website for your business. Creating content for your website. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer, Ep 125 - Curio Electric, Ep 387 Links: Facebook: Rumble Interiors Instagram: Rumble Interiors, mangossalon, @Stephanieatmangossalon on Instagram  Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have the first of our brand new on-air coaching shows and Stephanie Castillo, of Rumble Interiors in Washington State, will be joining us. Stephanie is a new designer and although she is still finishing her degree, she does have business experience. On the show today Stephanie will be asking LuAnn some really interesting questions about how to set up vendor accounts and setting up accounts with the trades. They talk about whether or not Stephanie should niche her firm, and if she needs a receivership for the products she sells to clients. They also have a discussion about a collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers. Listen in to LuAnn's excellent coaching session with Stephanie on the show today.

Stephanie has been a hairstylist for 27 years and she's worn many hats in that industry, Stylist, Educator, Manager, and Recruiter. She has two kids in grade school and she volunteers as the Board President for the Ellensburg Downtown Association in Washington state.

As her body was beginning to get tired from her work, Stephanie began thinking about what else she could do. As interior design has always been a love of hers, she enrolled at the New York School of Art and Design and started taking classes online.

Now that she's close to finishing up with her studies, Stephanie has gone ahead with the process of starting her own business, Rumble Interiors. She has done some practice work of what has become re-styles which involves taking someone's house and using what they already have and reworking it. And this really brings her so much joy!  To set herself up for success, she has been reaching out to mentors, like LuAnn, because she is ready to learn about all the details of running an interior design business. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

Stephanie has her license and she has her social media sites set up, but she does not yet have her website set up.

Stephanie has a blog that you can find via Instagram.

The collaboration that Stephanie is developing with two other interior designers.

Stephanie is into re-styles and would like to get into feng shui.

The design styles of Stephanie and her partners are very different.

Things to bear in mind when leasing a design space in partnership with someone else.

Finding the best vendors and tradespeople.

How to establish great relationships with sales reps.

The need for having a receivership for your shipped goods.

Finding a good and reputable receivership.

Running your business like a big-girl one, even if you're still a baby designer.

Do you really need licenses and accreditations?

How to work out how much to charge when you're starting out as a designer.

Is having a niche the best way to go?

Deciding whether to go to design school or not.

Why you really need to have a website for your business.

Creating content for your website.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Nicole Heymer, Ep 125 - Curio Electric, Ep 387

Links:

Facebook: Rumble Interiors

Instagram: Rumble Interiors, mangossalon, @Stephanieatmangossalon on Instagram

]]> 4608 no 390: Taylor Spellman: Re-play Episode & Designer Panelist at LuAnn Nigara Live 3/2019! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/390-taylor-spellman-re-play-episode-designer-panelist-at-luann-nigara-live-32019 I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York-based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has a million dollar clientele in New York City. Show Notes: Did Taylor go to school for interior design? What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field? What do Taylor’s clients have in common? How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche? How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea? What did Taylor go to school for? What were Taylor’s intentions for her career? What is Taylor’s competitive edge? Nothing just happens! How did she discover staging as another niche? How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships? Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer? What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”? What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about? Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes? How does she execute her design on the show? Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set? Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Tue, 01 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York-based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether... I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York-based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has a million dollar clientele in New York City. Show Notes: Did Taylor go to school for interior design? What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field? What do Taylor’s clients have in common? How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche? How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea? What did Taylor go to school for? What were Taylor’s intentions for her career? What is Taylor’s competitive edge? Nothing just happens! How did she discover staging as another niche? How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships? Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer? What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”? What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about? Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes? How does she execute her design on the show? Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set? Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York-based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has a million dollar clientele in New York City.

Show Notes:

  • Did Taylor go to school for interior design?
  • What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field?
  • What do Taylor’s clients have in common?
  • How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche?
  • How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea?
  • What did Taylor go to school for?
  • What were Taylor’s intentions for her career?
  • What is Taylor’s competitive edge?
  • Nothing just happens!
  • How did she discover staging as another niche?
  • How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships?
  • Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer?
  • What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”?
  • What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about?
  • Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes?
  • How does she execute her design on the show?
  • Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set?
  • Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 4102 no 389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/389-power-talk-friday-nancy-ganzekaufer Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer, one of the co-authors of Luann's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, with us today. Nancy is a really smart lady and she has appeared on the podcast number of times before to share her spot-on, expert advice. (#377, #256, #159, and #15) Today, Nancy is going to be talking to us about her new product, The Interior Design Profit Formula, an online course that she has really poured her heart and soul into creating. This is really the most affordable way to add a huge amount of value to your interior design business, so listen in to find out more! Nancy Ganzekaufer partners with creative entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, get more sales, get over their fears and go for what they want in work and in life. Through a series of coaching calls, emails, and exercises, she helps entrepreneurs reframe their doubts and indecisions, work through challenges with more confidence, and ultimately to grow their sales. Listen in today, to find out about the incredible kind of impact that Nancy's new course, The Interior Design Profit Formula, could have on your business. Show highlights: There are many different things that an interior designer needs to manage and it's one of the most difficult service industries that Nancy's coached. Running an interior design business takes balance and really knowing what to do. Nancy explains her motivation for putting this course together. You will need to have stickability, and the right kind of personality to go the distance with Nancy's course. Nancy explains what you will find in her course. Describing your business in words is the beginning of your branding process. The way that Nancy presents her information, and the examples that she gives, will really open up your mind and give you clarity. The benefits of having lifetime-access to Nancy's course. Nancy talks about growing your business. The importance of getting creative. Designers often come to Nancy for her help when they're feeling overwhelmed. Nancy gives the simplest tip that really makes the biggest difference! Becoming the leader in your relationship, and in charge of the process with your clients right from the outset. Being alert to the subtle messages that a potential client is giving out during the consultation. Ways to introduce your services in order to protect yourself. Nancy explains the benefits of her Ladder of Services model. Make sure that the people that you hire are dedicated to the growth of your company. The goal of Nancy's course is to make everyone feel confident in extending their reach, gaining more clients, and doubling or tripling their income. Nancy talks about the guest coaches in her course. Nancy's course costs $997 at this point in time and she is offering a free, one-on-one, half an hour coaching consultation to everyone who purchases her course, through this link Luann Nigara, from now until 30th June 2019. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Eileen Hahn # 363 Resources: To get Nancy's Interior Design Profit Formula, go to Luann Nigara Links: Nancy's website: Nancy Ganzekaufer You can also reach Nancy through her forum, or through her Facebook group, The Interior Design Business Forum at Interior Design Business Forum Fri, 28 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer, one of the co-authors of Luann's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, with us today. Nancy is a really smart lady and she has appeared on the podcast... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer, one of the co-authors of Luann's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, with us today. Nancy is a really smart lady and she has appeared on the podcast number of times before to share her spot-on, expert advice. (#377, #256, #159, and #15) Today, Nancy is going to be talking to us about her new product, The Interior Design Profit Formula, an online course that she has really poured her heart and soul into creating. This is really the most affordable way to add a huge amount of value to your interior design business, so listen in to find out more! Nancy Ganzekaufer partners with creative entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, get more sales, get over their fears and go for what they want in work and in life. Through a series of coaching calls, emails, and exercises, she helps entrepreneurs reframe their doubts and indecisions, work through challenges with more confidence, and ultimately to grow their sales. Listen in today, to find out about the incredible kind of impact that Nancy's new course, The Interior Design Profit Formula, could have on your business. Show highlights: There are many different things that an interior designer needs to manage and it's one of the most difficult service industries that Nancy's coached. Running an interior design business takes balance and really knowing what to do. Nancy explains her motivation for putting this course together. You will need to have stickability, and the right kind of personality to go the distance with Nancy's course. Nancy explains what you will find in her course. Describing your business in words is the beginning of your branding process. The way that Nancy presents her information, and the examples that she gives, will really open up your mind and give you clarity. The benefits of having lifetime-access to Nancy's course. Nancy talks about growing your business. The importance of getting creative. Designers often come to Nancy for her help when they're feeling overwhelmed. Nancy gives the simplest tip that really makes the biggest difference! Becoming the leader in your relationship, and in charge of the process with your clients right from the outset. Being alert to the subtle messages that a potential client is giving out during the consultation. Ways to introduce your services in order to protect yourself. Nancy explains the benefits of her Ladder of Services model. Make sure that the people that you hire are dedicated to the growth of your company. The goal of Nancy's course is to make everyone feel confident in extending their reach, gaining more clients, and doubling or tripling their income. Nancy talks about the guest coaches in her course. Nancy's course costs $997 at this point in time and she is offering a free, one-on-one, half an hour coaching consultation to everyone who purchases her course, through this link Luann Nigara, from now until 30th June 2019. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Eileen Hahn # 363 Resources: To get Nancy's Interior Design Profit Formula, go to Luann Nigara Links: Nancy's website: Nancy Ganzekaufer You can also reach Nancy through her forum, or through her Facebook group, The Interior Design Business Forum at Interior Design Business Forum Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer, one of the co-authors of Luann's soon-to-be-launched new book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, with us today. Nancy is a really smart lady and she has appeared on the podcast number of times before to share her spot-on, expert advice. (#377, #256, #159, and #15) Today, Nancy is going to be talking to us about her new product, The Interior Design Profit Formula, an online course that she has really poured her heart and soul into creating. This is really the most affordable way to add a huge amount of value to your interior design business, so listen in to find out more!

Nancy Ganzekaufer partners with creative entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, get more sales, get over their fears and go for what they want in work and in life. Through a series of coaching calls, emails, and exercises, she helps entrepreneurs reframe their doubts and indecisions, work through challenges with more confidence, and ultimately to grow their sales. Listen in today, to find out about the incredible kind of impact that Nancy's new course, The Interior Design Profit Formula, could have on your business.

Show highlights:

  • There are many different things that an interior designer needs to manage and it's one of the most difficult service industries that Nancy's coached.
  • Running an interior design business takes balance and really knowing what to do.
  • Nancy explains her motivation for putting this course together.
  • You will need to have stickability, and the right kind of personality to go the distance with Nancy's course.
  • Nancy explains what you will find in her course.
  • Describing your business in words is the beginning of your branding process.
  • The way that Nancy presents her information, and the examples that she gives, will really open up your mind and give you clarity.
  • The benefits of having lifetime-access to Nancy's course.
  • Nancy talks about growing your business.
  • The importance of getting creative.
  • Designers often come to Nancy for her help when they're feeling overwhelmed.
  • Nancy gives the simplest tip that really makes the biggest difference!
  • Becoming the leader in your relationship, and in charge of the process with your clients right from the outset.
  • Being alert to the subtle messages that a potential client is giving out during the consultation.
  • Ways to introduce your services in order to protect yourself.
  • Nancy explains the benefits of her Ladder of Services model.
  • Make sure that the people that you hire are dedicated to the growth of your company.
  • The goal of Nancy's course is to make everyone feel confident in extending their reach, gaining more clients, and doubling or tripling their income.
  • Nancy talks about the guest coaches in her course.
  • Nancy's course costs $997 at this point in time and she is offering a free, one-on-one, half an hour coaching consultation to everyone who purchases her course, through this link Luann Nigara, from now until 30th June 2019.

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Eileen Hahn # 363

Resources:

To get Nancy's Interior Design Profit Formula, go to Luann Nigara

Links:

Nancy's website: Nancy Ganzekaufer

You can also reach Nancy through her forum, or through her Facebook group, The Interior Design Business Forum at Interior Design Business Forum

]]> 3849 no 388: Corey Damen Jenkins: Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/388-corey-damen-jenkins-interior-designer-furniture-designer-gentleman I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan. In 2011 the television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 arts award for the best product design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities. Show Notes: What was the process like to get Corey to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown? What were the reasons that Corey was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown? How has Corey learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things? How does he get the most out of his projects? Does he use PR firms? When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized? How did Corey decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft? What is Leathercraft? How did Corey decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection? Who did Corey name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after? How does he come up with his designs for his furniture? Resources: Leather Craft Furniture Corey Damen Jenkins Tue, 25 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone... I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan. In 2011 the television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 arts award for the best product design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities. Show Notes: What was the process like to get Corey to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown? What were the reasons that Corey was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown? How has Corey learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things? How does he get the most out of his projects? Does he use PR firms? When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized? How did Corey decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft? What is Leathercraft? How did Corey decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection? Who did Corey name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after? How does he come up with his designs for his furniture? Resources: Leather Craft Furniture Corey Damen Jenkins I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan. In 2011 the television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 arts award for the best product design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities.

Show Notes:

  • What was the process like to get Corey to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown?
  • What were the reasons that Corey was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown?
  • How has Corey learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things?
  • How does he get the most out of his projects?
  • Does he use PR firms?
  • When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized?
  • How did Corey decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft?
  • What is Leathercraft?
  • How did Corey decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection?
  • Who did Corey name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after?
  • How does he come up with his designs for his furniture?

Resources:

Leather Craft Furniture

Corey Damen Jenkins

]]> 4011 no 387: The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/387-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a special announcement to make on the show today. As most of you know, her second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, is coming out soon. It was initially going to be released in February next year, but this has changed. On the show today LuAnn explains why the plans have changed and she talks about the big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, that has been planned instead, for the launch of the book on the 30th of March. She also explains what the book will be like, and the kind of information you can expect to find in it. Listen in to find out all about the really remarkable event that LuAnn has planned. LuAnn invited twelve of the Power Talk Friday experts to collaborate with her in creating a go-to book to run your interior design business. She invited each of them to write a chapter for the book about their specific zone of genius. The book is full of really useful information for interior designers about attracting luxury clientele, creating a design process, charging what you're worth, building an exceptional team, defining your brand, and much, much more. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The kind of information that you will find in the book. At the beginning and end of every chapter, LuAnn will do an intro and outro, just like she does on the show. The twelve experts, that LuAnn invited to write a chapter each, for the book. Our birthday party will be happening at the Kravet showroom, at the D and D Building in New York City, on the 5th of February 2019. About the Power Talk Friday Tour. Doing a thorough analysis of every project, after completion. LuAnn talks about the planned launch for her book in March. Thinking about ways to make the Power Talk Friday Tours a really amazing experience. On March 30th, 31st, and April 1st, 2019, at the Hilton in Short Hills, New Jersey, LuAnn will be gathering all twelve of her co-authors to do live discussions. In addition to the twelve experts, LuAnn has also invited twelve savvy interior design principals that have appeared on the podcast. The insane, intense, invigorating, and absolutely amazing book launch event that has been planned. The ticket price, and what the VIP experience is all about. Why the third day will be limited to only 50 or 75 designers. LuAnn is bringing the exact podcast format to her live event. Some of the incredible designers that have already committed to being at the event. You can get onto LuAnn's email list by texting 444999 and putting design biz into the field. You can get early bird tickets for the event for only $395 from today until January 8th. After that, the price will go up to $595. (The VIP ticket is $200 extra.) If you sign up between December 21st and January 8th, your name will go into a draw to win a one-on-one coaching session with LuAnn, her husband, Vince, or one of the co-authors of the book. About the VIP experience. (Go back and listen to episode #14 with Malene B) Why LuAnn invites the sponsors to be part of the VIP experience. The twelve experts who each wrote a chapter for the book: Fred Berns, Sarah Danielle, Nancy Ganzekaufer, Eileen Hahn, Nicole Heymer, Claire Jefford, Peter Lang, Marc McDonough, Stacy Brown Randall, Shawna Lynne Simon, Kaye Whittaker, and Michelle Williams Some of the sponsors that are supporting the event are: Designer Inc. Kravet MyDoma Studio Wingnut Social Schwartz Design Showroom Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Malene B #14 Links: Luann's website, to sign up for the event: Luann Live Fri, 21 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a special announcement to make on the show today. As most of you know, her second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, is coming out soon. It was initially going to be released in February... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a special announcement to make on the show today. As most of you know, her second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, is coming out soon. It was initially going to be released in February next year, but this has changed. On the show today LuAnn explains why the plans have changed and she talks about the big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, that has been planned instead, for the launch of the book on the 30th of March. She also explains what the book will be like, and the kind of information you can expect to find in it. Listen in to find out all about the really remarkable event that LuAnn has planned. LuAnn invited twelve of the Power Talk Friday experts to collaborate with her in creating a go-to book to run your interior design business. She invited each of them to write a chapter for the book about their specific zone of genius. The book is full of really useful information for interior designers about attracting luxury clientele, creating a design process, charging what you're worth, building an exceptional team, defining your brand, and much, much more. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The kind of information that you will find in the book. At the beginning and end of every chapter, LuAnn will do an intro and outro, just like she does on the show. The twelve experts, that LuAnn invited to write a chapter each, for the book. Our birthday party will be happening at the Kravet showroom, at the D and D Building in New York City, on the 5th of February 2019. About the Power Talk Friday Tour. Doing a thorough analysis of every project, after completion. LuAnn talks about the planned launch for her book in March. Thinking about ways to make the Power Talk Friday Tours a really amazing experience. On March 30th, 31st, and April 1st, 2019, at the Hilton in Short Hills, New Jersey, LuAnn will be gathering all twelve of her co-authors to do live discussions. In addition to the twelve experts, LuAnn has also invited twelve savvy interior design principals that have appeared on the podcast. The insane, intense, invigorating, and absolutely amazing book launch event that has been planned. The ticket price, and what the VIP experience is all about. Why the third day will be limited to only 50 or 75 designers. LuAnn is bringing the exact podcast format to her live event. Some of the incredible designers that have already committed to being at the event. You can get onto LuAnn's email list by texting 444999 and putting design biz into the field. You can get early bird tickets for the event for only $395 from today until January 8th. After that, the price will go up to $595. (The VIP ticket is $200 extra.) If you sign up between December 21st and January 8th, your name will go into a draw to win a one-on-one coaching session with LuAnn, her husband, Vince, or one of the co-authors of the book. About the VIP experience. (Go back and listen to episode #14 with Malene B) Why LuAnn invites the sponsors to be part of the VIP experience. The twelve experts who each wrote a chapter for the book: Fred Berns, Sarah Danielle, Nancy Ganzekaufer, Eileen Hahn, Nicole Heymer, Claire Jefford, Peter Lang, Marc McDonough, Stacy Brown Randall, Shawna Lynne Simon, Kaye Whittaker, and Michelle Williams Some of the sponsors that are supporting the event are: Designer Inc. Kravet MyDoma Studio Wingnut Social Schwartz Design Showroom Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Malene B #14 Links: Luann's website, to sign up for the event: Luann Live Welcome to Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a special announcement to make on the show today. As most of you know, her second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, is coming out soon. It was initially going to be released in February next year, but this has changed. On the show today LuAnn explains why the plans have changed and she talks about the big event, LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, that has been planned instead, for the launch of the book on the 30th of March. She also explains what the book will be like, and the kind of information you can expect to find in it. Listen in to find out all about the really remarkable event that LuAnn has planned.

LuAnn invited twelve of the Power Talk Friday experts to collaborate with her in creating a go-to book to run your interior design business. She invited each of them to write a chapter for the book about their specific zone of genius. The book is full of really useful information for interior designers about attracting luxury clientele, creating a design process, charging what you're worth, building an exceptional team, defining your brand, and much, much more. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • The kind of information that you will find in the book.
  • At the beginning and end of every chapter, LuAnn will do an intro and outro, just like she does on the show.
  • The twelve experts, that LuAnn invited to write a chapter each, for the book.
  • Our birthday party will be happening at the Kravet showroom, at the D and D Building in New York City, on the 5th of February 2019.
  • About the Power Talk Friday Tour.
  • Doing a thorough analysis of every project, after completion.
  • LuAnn talks about the planned launch for her book in March.
  • Thinking about ways to make the Power Talk Friday Tours a really amazing experience.
  • On March 30th, 31st, and April 1st, 2019, at the Hilton in Short Hills, New Jersey, LuAnn will be gathering all twelve of her co-authors to do live discussions.
  • In addition to the twelve experts, LuAnn has also invited twelve savvy interior design principals that have appeared on the podcast.
  • The insane, intense, invigorating, and absolutely amazing book launch event that has been planned.
  • The ticket price, and what the VIP experience is all about.
  • Why the third day will be limited to only 50 or 75 designers.
  • LuAnn is bringing the exact podcast format to her live event.
  • Some of the incredible designers that have already committed to being at the event.
  • You can get onto LuAnn's email list by texting 444999 and putting design biz into the field.
  • You can get early bird tickets for the event for only $395 from today until January 8th. After that, the price will go up to $595. (The VIP ticket is $200 extra.) If you sign up between December 21st and January 8th, your name will go into a draw to win a one-on-one coaching session with LuAnn, her husband, Vince, or one of the co-authors of the book.
  • About the VIP experience. (Go back and listen to episode #14 with Malene B)
  • Why LuAnn invites the sponsors to be part of the VIP experience.

The twelve experts who each wrote a chapter for the book:

Fred Berns, Sarah Danielle, Nancy Ganzekaufer, Eileen Hahn, Nicole Heymer, Claire Jefford, Peter Lang, Marc McDonough, Stacy Brown Randall, Shawna Lynne Simon, Kaye Whittaker, and Michelle Williams

Some of the sponsors that are supporting the event are:

Designer Inc.

Kravet

MyDoma Studio

Wingnut Social

Schwartz Design Showroom

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Malene B #14

Links:

Luann's website, to sign up for the event: Luann Live

]]> 2094 no 386: Wendy Glaister: Not All Challenges Are Design Related http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/386-wendy-glaister-not-all-challenges-are-design-related Welcome! We are really happy to have Wendy Glaister, of Wendy Glaister Interiors, here with us today! Wendy is a really sweet, kind, and cheerful lady with a million-dollar smile, and it's very clear that being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community are a big feature of Wendy's design firm. On the show today we have a really wonderful and very inspiring conversation with Wendy where she shares some things that may surprise you and will certainly make you appreciate her. You're in for a very different episode today! Listen in now to find out more! Wendy Glaister Interiors is located in Modesto, California. And Wendy is an interior designer who has mastered the art of listening. She listens to her clients, to understand the things that will make their homes feel uniquely special, she listens to architects, to help make their vision come to fruition, and she listens to contractors, collaborating with their craftspeople and artisans to bring out the very best in every member of the team. Wendy is a delightful speaker, whether to an audience of design students or a seasoned group of interior design professionals. She is engaging, using self-deprecating humor to immediately disarm and warm her audience. She is currently serving as president of the Central Californian Nevada chapter of the ASID. Listen in to find out what Wendy has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Growing up, Wendy always really wanted to be a member of the ASID- and now she's the ASID president! Being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community is a big feature of Wendy's design firm. Wendy talks about the three organizations that she patronizes and some of the things she does for them. What the Genesis 50/20 Foundation is all about. Wendy shares, for the very first time, about a profound challenge that she had to deal with in her life. Talking about difficult things really can really help people to get their power back. What it took for Wendy to realize that she wasn't 'the problem'. Wendy talks about her compulsion to do well and to help people. Why Wendy doesn't think it's fair to quit. Wendy's business has grown a hundred percent, year over year, for three years! Ensuring that her son has a good life has been a huge motivator for Wendy. The help that she got from her gutsy pastor. How Wendy developed so much compassion for other people. From living in 'survival mode' to learning to trust again. That positive change she's experienced in her business since talking on a partner. Wendy does boxing to release her pent-up tension. God has always shown up for Wendy and that has allowed her to remain optimistic. It's really okay to be kind and helpful. How Wendy has managed to grow her business by a hundred percent a year, for three years in a row. Some business lessons that Wendy has learned along the way. It takes a lot of work to remain brave, take full responsibility, and be accountable for your business. Links: Website: Wendy Glaister Interiors Facebook: Wendy Glaister Interiors Instagram: Wendy Design Pinterest: WKG Design Twitter: WKG Designer To support Wendy in her mission to provide mothers who are victims of domestic violence with the funds to obtain the therapy necessary to heal, you can do it through The Haven Women's Center, Crickets Hope and Arts Therapy Program for children, and the Genesis 50/20 Foundation, which raises and distributes funds for trauma therapy. You can reach these organizations through Wendy's website Wendy Glaister Interiors. Tue, 18 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We are really happy to have Wendy Glaister, of Wendy Glaister Interiors, here with us today! Wendy is a really sweet, kind, and cheerful lady with a million-dollar smile, and it's very clear that being involved with philanthropic... Welcome! We are really happy to have Wendy Glaister, of Wendy Glaister Interiors, here with us today! Wendy is a really sweet, kind, and cheerful lady with a million-dollar smile, and it's very clear that being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community are a big feature of Wendy's design firm. On the show today we have a really wonderful and very inspiring conversation with Wendy where she shares some things that may surprise you and will certainly make you appreciate her. You're in for a very different episode today! Listen in now to find out more! Wendy Glaister Interiors is located in Modesto, California. And Wendy is an interior designer who has mastered the art of listening. She listens to her clients, to understand the things that will make their homes feel uniquely special, she listens to architects, to help make their vision come to fruition, and she listens to contractors, collaborating with their craftspeople and artisans to bring out the very best in every member of the team. Wendy is a delightful speaker, whether to an audience of design students or a seasoned group of interior design professionals. She is engaging, using self-deprecating humor to immediately disarm and warm her audience. She is currently serving as president of the Central Californian Nevada chapter of the ASID. Listen in to find out what Wendy has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Growing up, Wendy always really wanted to be a member of the ASID- and now she's the ASID president! Being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community is a big feature of Wendy's design firm. Wendy talks about the three organizations that she patronizes and some of the things she does for them. What the Genesis 50/20 Foundation is all about. Wendy shares, for the very first time, about a profound challenge that she had to deal with in her life. Talking about difficult things really can really help people to get their power back. What it took for Wendy to realize that she wasn't 'the problem'. Wendy talks about her compulsion to do well and to help people. Why Wendy doesn't think it's fair to quit. Wendy's business has grown a hundred percent, year over year, for three years! Ensuring that her son has a good life has been a huge motivator for Wendy. The help that she got from her gutsy pastor. How Wendy developed so much compassion for other people. From living in 'survival mode' to learning to trust again. That positive change she's experienced in her business since talking on a partner. Wendy does boxing to release her pent-up tension. God has always shown up for Wendy and that has allowed her to remain optimistic. It's really okay to be kind and helpful. How Wendy has managed to grow her business by a hundred percent a year, for three years in a row. Some business lessons that Wendy has learned along the way. It takes a lot of work to remain brave, take full responsibility, and be accountable for your business. Links: Website: Wendy Glaister Interiors Facebook: Wendy Glaister Interiors Instagram: Wendy Design Pinterest: WKG Design Twitter: WKG Designer To support Wendy in her mission to provide mothers who are victims of domestic violence with the funds to obtain the therapy necessary to heal, you can do it through The Haven Women's Center, Crickets Hope and Arts Therapy Program for children, and the Genesis 50/20 Foundation, which raises and distributes funds for trauma therapy. You can reach these organizations through Wendy's website Wendy Glaister Interiors. Welcome! We are really happy to have Wendy Glaister, of Wendy Glaister Interiors, here with us today! Wendy is a really sweet, kind, and cheerful lady with a million-dollar smile, and it's very clear that being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community are a big feature of Wendy's design firm. On the show today we have a really wonderful and very inspiring conversation with Wendy where she shares some things that may surprise you and will certainly make you appreciate her. You're in for a very different episode today! Listen in now to find out more!

Wendy Glaister Interiors is located in Modesto, California. And Wendy is an interior designer who has mastered the art of listening. She listens to her clients, to understand the things that will make their homes feel uniquely special, she listens to architects, to help make their vision come to fruition, and she listens to contractors, collaborating with their craftspeople and artisans to bring out the very best in every member of the team. Wendy is a delightful speaker, whether to an audience of design students or a seasoned group of interior design professionals. She is engaging, using self-deprecating humor to immediately disarm and warm her audience. She is currently serving as president of the Central Californian Nevada chapter of the ASID. Listen in to find out what Wendy has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Growing up, Wendy always really wanted to be a member of the ASID- and now she's the ASID president!
  • Being involved with philanthropic organizations, and giving back to her community is a big feature of Wendy's design firm.
  • Wendy talks about the three organizations that she patronizes and some of the things she does for them.
  • What the Genesis 50/20 Foundation is all about.
  • Wendy shares, for the very first time, about a profound challenge that she had to deal with in her life.
  • Talking about difficult things really can really help people to get their power back.
  • What it took for Wendy to realize that she wasn't 'the problem'.
  • Wendy talks about her compulsion to do well and to help people.
  • Why Wendy doesn't think it's fair to quit.
  • Wendy's business has grown a hundred percent, year over year, for three years!
  • Ensuring that her son has a good life has been a huge motivator for Wendy.
  • The help that she got from her gutsy pastor.
  • How Wendy developed so much compassion for other people.
  • From living in 'survival mode' to learning to trust again.
  • That positive change she's experienced in her business since talking on a partner.
  • Wendy does boxing to release her pent-up tension.
  • God has always shown up for Wendy and that has allowed her to remain optimistic.
  • It's really okay to be kind and helpful.
  • How Wendy has managed to grow her business by a hundred percent a year, for three years in a row.
  • Some business lessons that Wendy has learned along the way.
  • It takes a lot of work to remain brave, take full responsibility, and be accountable for your business.

Links:

Website: Wendy Glaister Interiors

Facebook: Wendy Glaister Interiors

Instagram: Wendy Design

Pinterest: WKG Design

Twitter: WKG Designer

To support Wendy in her mission to provide mothers who are victims of domestic violence with the funds to obtain the therapy necessary to heal, you can do it through The Haven Women's Center, Crickets Hope and Arts Therapy Program for children, and the Genesis 50/20 Foundation, which raises and distributes funds for trauma therapy. You can reach these organizations through Wendy's website Wendy Glaister Interiors.

]]> 4164 no 385: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: The Productivity Specialist http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/385-power-talk-friday-amber-de-la-garza-the-productivity-specialist Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We're really excited to have Amber De La Garza, The Productivity Specialist, here with us today! We all know that things, like being productive and efficient, getting our systems in order, and managing our time, are crucial to running a successful business. Although these things may seem simple, they are often a lot more difficult than they need to be. Amber's goal is to simplify everything and make it easier for entrepreneurs. One of the things that she loves to teach people about is time-blocking. If you have tried it before, and it didn't seem to work for you, you will really gain a lot from today's show. Because Amber's goal for today is to get you to to the place where you love time-blocking and you see that it's the best thing that has ever happened to your business. Listen in to find out more! Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of S.T.O.P.! The Entrepreneur’s Success Solution. She helps driven entrepreneurs execute actionable solutions to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most! Listen in to find out what Amber has to share with you on the show today! Show highlights: Amber is going to teach you how to love time-blocking! There are two different types of time-blocking- task-based and project-based. Amber gives her definition of what time-blocking is: It's investing your best time into your best activities. Getting really clear about the few activities that will have the biggest impact on you achieving your goals, if done consistently. Once you've created a schedule you will need to keep showing up consistently for the things that have to be done. Busting the myth that some people are designed to be more structure than others. Using your goals as a motivating factor to learn new skills. Some excellent tips for effective time-blocking. Amber shares her seven-step process of creating your ideal block schedule. Creating boundaries for your ideal schedule. Creating purposeful routines to set yourself up for success. It's often the smaller things that will get you to where you want to go. Finding what really works for you helps when creating routines that are sustainable. We all have different priorities for our daily schedules. The benefits of having weekly power lunches. Another way to do time-blocking. Reclaiming money by creating high-value activity blocks. You don't have to be available all the time! There's never enough time to do everything, so your job is to create the time and carve it down on your schedule for the things that matter most. Amber talks about the free template download that she has for you, to help you create your ideal schedule. Go to The Productivity Specialist to download it now! Other episodes mentioned on the show: Monique Holmes #365 Links: Website: The Productivity Specialist Podcast: Productivity Straight Talk Facebook Page: The Productivity Specialist Facebook Group: Productivity Straight Talk Instagram: Amber De La Garza For your free template download: The Productivity Specialist Fri, 14 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We're really excited to have Amber De La Garza, The Productivity Specialist, here with us today! We all know that things, like being productive and efficient, getting our systems in order, and managing... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We're really excited to have Amber De La Garza, The Productivity Specialist, here with us today! We all know that things, like being productive and efficient, getting our systems in order, and managing our time, are crucial to running a successful business. Although these things may seem simple, they are often a lot more difficult than they need to be. Amber's goal is to simplify everything and make it easier for entrepreneurs. One of the things that she loves to teach people about is time-blocking. If you have tried it before, and it didn't seem to work for you, you will really gain a lot from today's show. Because Amber's goal for today is to get you to to the place where you love time-blocking and you see that it's the best thing that has ever happened to your business. Listen in to find out more! Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of S.T.O.P.! The Entrepreneur’s Success Solution. She helps driven entrepreneurs execute actionable solutions to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most! Listen in to find out what Amber has to share with you on the show today! Show highlights: Amber is going to teach you how to love time-blocking! There are two different types of time-blocking- task-based and project-based. Amber gives her definition of what time-blocking is: It's investing your best time into your best activities. Getting really clear about the few activities that will have the biggest impact on you achieving your goals, if done consistently. Once you've created a schedule you will need to keep showing up consistently for the things that have to be done. Busting the myth that some people are designed to be more structure than others. Using your goals as a motivating factor to learn new skills. Some excellent tips for effective time-blocking. Amber shares her seven-step process of creating your ideal block schedule. Creating boundaries for your ideal schedule. Creating purposeful routines to set yourself up for success. It's often the smaller things that will get you to where you want to go. Finding what really works for you helps when creating routines that are sustainable. We all have different priorities for our daily schedules. The benefits of having weekly power lunches. Another way to do time-blocking. Reclaiming money by creating high-value activity blocks. You don't have to be available all the time! There's never enough time to do everything, so your job is to create the time and carve it down on your schedule for the things that matter most. Amber talks about the free template download that she has for you, to help you create your ideal schedule. Go to The Productivity Specialist to download it now! Other episodes mentioned on the show: Monique Holmes #365 Links: Website: The Productivity Specialist Podcast: Productivity Straight Talk Facebook Page: The Productivity Specialist Facebook Group: Productivity Straight Talk Instagram: Amber De La Garza For your free template download: The Productivity Specialist Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We're really excited to have Amber De La Garza, The Productivity Specialist, here with us today! We all know that things, like being productive and efficient, getting our systems in order, and managing our time, are crucial to running a successful business. Although these things may seem simple, they are often a lot more difficult than they need to be. Amber's goal is to simplify everything and make it easier for entrepreneurs. One of the things that she loves to teach people about is time-blocking. If you have tried it before, and it didn't seem to work for you, you will really gain a lot from today's show. Because Amber's goal for today is to get you to to the place where you love time-blocking and you see that it's the best thing that has ever happened to your business. Listen in to find out more!

Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast, and creator of S.T.O.P.! The Entrepreneur’s Success Solution. She helps driven entrepreneurs execute actionable solutions to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most! Listen in to find out what Amber has to share with you on the show today!

Show highlights:

  • Amber is going to teach you how to love time-blocking!
  • There are two different types of time-blocking- task-based and project-based.
  • Amber gives her definition of what time-blocking is: It's investing your best time into your best activities.
  • Getting really clear about the few activities that will have the biggest impact on you achieving your goals, if done consistently.
  • Once you've created a schedule you will need to keep showing up consistently for the things that have to be done.
  • Busting the myth that some people are designed to be more structure than others.
  • Using your goals as a motivating factor to learn new skills.
  • Some excellent tips for effective time-blocking.
  • Amber shares her seven-step process of creating your ideal block schedule.
  • Creating boundaries for your ideal schedule.
  • Creating purposeful routines to set yourself up for success.
  • It's often the smaller things that will get you to where you want to go.
  • Finding what really works for you helps when creating routines that are sustainable.
  • We all have different priorities for our daily schedules.
  • The benefits of having weekly power lunches.
  • Another way to do time-blocking.
  • Reclaiming money by creating high-value activity blocks.
  • You don't have to be available all the time!
  • There's never enough time to do everything, so your job is to create the time and carve it down on your schedule for the things that matter most.
  • Amber talks about the free template download that she has for you, to help you create your ideal schedule. Go to The Productivity Specialist to download it now!

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Monique Holmes #365

Links:

Website: The Productivity Specialist

Podcast: Productivity Straight Talk

Facebook Page: The Productivity Specialist

Facebook Group: Productivity Straight Talk

Instagram: Amber De La Garza

For your free template download: The Productivity Specialist

]]> 4666 no 384: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/384-sarah-magness-practical-strategies-for-talking-budgets Welcome to today's episode! We're really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a 'baby designer' and launched right into the luxury market. Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the "New Heights" program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah's very straightforward and clear advice. Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island. Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful "Next Wave" designer and she's also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business. The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience. The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do. Sarah's recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school. New York has a really supportive and talented design community. Budget is always an issue with clients. How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients. How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot. The importance of having really clear communication with your clients. It is often the clients' choices that cause a project to go over budget. Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it. How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items. When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client. The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects. Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she's involved with. Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The Town Home, about a seven-story 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71 Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter. Tue, 11 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We're really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a 'baby designer' and launched right into the luxury market. Today she talks to us about the real-life experience... Welcome to today's episode! We're really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a 'baby designer' and launched right into the luxury market. Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the "New Heights" program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah's very straightforward and clear advice. Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island. Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful "Next Wave" designer and she's also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business. The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience. The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do. Sarah's recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school. New York has a really supportive and talented design community. Budget is always an issue with clients. How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients. How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot. The importance of having really clear communication with your clients. It is often the clients' choices that cause a project to go over budget. Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it. How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items. When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client. The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects. Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she's involved with. Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The Town Home, about a seven-story 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71 Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter. Welcome to today's episode! We're really glad to have Sarah Magness, of Magness Design, with us today. Eight years ago, Sarah hatched as a 'baby designer' and launched right into the luxury market.

Today she talks to us about the real-life experience she gained during this time, before opening her own firm. She also talks about the "New Heights" program at Marymount that she came to spearhead through her involvement with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. And today we also have an excellent conversation with Sarah about the best way to talk budget with clients. This is often a really tricky area of business, so listen in to get Sarah's very straightforward and clear advice.

Magness Design began in 2010 with a focus on residential design. It is located in New York City and its current focus is on the preservation of historic properties, by saving them and making them livable. Their major projects are in New York City, the Hudson Valley area, and on Long Island.

Sarah received her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin and her graduate degree in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. She is a House Beautiful "Next Wave" designer and she's also been featured in Architectural Digest for a very large townhouse project that she saved and renovated. Listen in to find out more.

  • Show highlights: Working for three or four different design firms is a great way to learn the business aspect of running your own design business.
  • The different people that Sarah first worked for, to gain real-life experience.
  • The type of apprenticeship that architecture undergraduates are required to do.
  • Sarah's recommendations for getting to work for the best firms, after graduating from school.
  • New York has a really supportive and talented design community.
  • Budget is always an issue with clients.
  • How Sarah approaches budget conversations with her clients.
  • How to estimate a budget for your client on the spot.
  • The importance of having really clear communication with your clients.
  • It is often the clients' choices that cause a project to go over budget.
  • Giving the client an itemized list with the cost of each item on it.
  • How to talk to your client about going over the budget for certain items.
  • When and how to discuss fees with a high-end client.
  • The language to use in order to get the best response from clients when dealing with multi-faceted projects.
  • Sarah discusses the passion-projects that she's involved with.
  • Sarah has created a twelve-minute documentary called The
  • Town Home, about a seven-story
  • 1911 New York townhouse renovation project that she did.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Andrew Suvalsky #28 Christie Leu # 182 Dr. Ellen Fisher #71

Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter

Reference: Click the ICAA organization link find your local chapter.

]]> 3977 no 383: Power Talk Friday: Jeff Tippett: The Power of Persuasion in Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/383-power-talk-friday-jeff-tippett-the-power-of-persuasion-in-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted have Jeff Tippett, aka Mr. Persuasion, with us today. Jeff is a subject matter expert in persuasive communications. And on the show today he will explain some of the principals that lie right at the heart of persuasion. This is really an important and valuable skill to learn for any business. And there's so much you can accomplish after acquiring this skillset! So grab the opportunity now, and listen in to hear Jeff's message. Jeff helps people increase their effectiveness, gives them powerful tools for attaining goals and dreams, and helps them positively impact their organization—all as they learn techniques for communicating persuasively with others. When results mattered most, renowned brands like Airbnb, The National Restaurant Association, The League of Women Voters, The League of Conservation have trusted Jeff to develop and implement communications plans to persuade elected officials, the media, and the general public. And as an expert on persuasive communications, Jeff continues to deliver results for influential clients. Other industry experts have validated Jeff’s work through numerous awards including the prestigious The American Advertising Awards. Jeff has impacted thousands of lives through over 500 presentations including keynotes and seminars. Others feature Jeff’s expertise in persuasive communications through articles, podcasts, and blogs. Jeff’s highly anticipated second book, Unleashing Your Superpower: Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need is scheduled for completion in January 2019. Listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Jeff shares the story of how he adopted his baby daughter in Haiti. The really valuable lesson Jeff learned from his experience in Haiti. Changing your mindset from one of manipulation to one of persuasion. The two words that indicate that you've successfully persuaded somebody. Showing someone a new vision of how things could be. Getting what you want by helping others to get what they want. Three ways to get to know what someone really wants. Some tools to use when making a real connection with a potential client, and getting them to like you. People will remember how you made them feel, so make them feel heard and understood, and valuable. Placing yourself firmly in the shoes of a potential client. Putting a lot of thought into what you say and the language you use. Jeff shares 3 strategies to create better online influence. Helping people to trust you. Figuring out your only-ness, to really stand out and set yourself apart. Staying consistent with who you are and what you do. Three tips to help you to position your message so that people will say "yes". Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159 and #256 Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337 Sponsored episodes by Article.Com #301 and #367 Links: Website: Jeff Tippett Twitter: Jeff Tippett Facebook: Jeff Tippett Speaker LinkedIn: Jeff Tippett YouTube: Jeff In Cary Book: Pixels Are the New Ink: 3 Steps to Digital Domination In Your Industry To look into Article.com: Well Designed Article Text the word PERSUADE to 66866, to be informed when Jeff's new book, Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need, becomes available. You will also get a free chapter of the book right away. Fri, 07 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted have Jeff Tippett, aka Mr. Persuasion, with us today. Jeff is a subject matter expert in persuasive communications. And on the show today he will explain some of the principals that lie right at... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted have Jeff Tippett, aka Mr. Persuasion, with us today. Jeff is a subject matter expert in persuasive communications. And on the show today he will explain some of the principals that lie right at the heart of persuasion. This is really an important and valuable skill to learn for any business. And there's so much you can accomplish after acquiring this skillset! So grab the opportunity now, and listen in to hear Jeff's message. Jeff helps people increase their effectiveness, gives them powerful tools for attaining goals and dreams, and helps them positively impact their organization—all as they learn techniques for communicating persuasively with others. When results mattered most, renowned brands like Airbnb, The National Restaurant Association, The League of Women Voters, The League of Conservation have trusted Jeff to develop and implement communications plans to persuade elected officials, the media, and the general public. And as an expert on persuasive communications, Jeff continues to deliver results for influential clients. Other industry experts have validated Jeff’s work through numerous awards including the prestigious The American Advertising Awards. Jeff has impacted thousands of lives through over 500 presentations including keynotes and seminars. Others feature Jeff’s expertise in persuasive communications through articles, podcasts, and blogs. Jeff’s highly anticipated second book, Unleashing Your Superpower: Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need is scheduled for completion in January 2019. Listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Jeff shares the story of how he adopted his baby daughter in Haiti. The really valuable lesson Jeff learned from his experience in Haiti. Changing your mindset from one of manipulation to one of persuasion. The two words that indicate that you've successfully persuaded somebody. Showing someone a new vision of how things could be. Getting what you want by helping others to get what they want. Three ways to get to know what someone really wants. Some tools to use when making a real connection with a potential client, and getting them to like you. People will remember how you made them feel, so make them feel heard and understood, and valuable. Placing yourself firmly in the shoes of a potential client. Putting a lot of thought into what you say and the language you use. Jeff shares 3 strategies to create better online influence. Helping people to trust you. Figuring out your only-ness, to really stand out and set yourself apart. Staying consistent with who you are and what you do. Three tips to help you to position your message so that people will say "yes". Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159 and #256 Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337 Sponsored episodes by Article.Com #301 and #367 Links: Website: Jeff Tippett Twitter: Jeff Tippett Facebook: Jeff Tippett Speaker LinkedIn: Jeff Tippett YouTube: Jeff In Cary Book: Pixels Are the New Ink: 3 Steps to Digital Domination In Your Industry To look into Article.com: Well Designed Article Text the word PERSUADE to 66866, to be informed when Jeff's new book, Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need, becomes available. You will also get a free chapter of the book right away. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really delighted have Jeff Tippett, aka Mr. Persuasion, with us today. Jeff is a subject matter expert in persuasive communications. And on the show today he will explain some of the principals that lie right at the heart of persuasion. This is really an important and valuable skill to learn for any business. And there's so much you can accomplish after acquiring this skillset! So grab the opportunity now, and listen in to hear Jeff's message.

Jeff helps people increase their effectiveness, gives them powerful tools for attaining goals and dreams, and helps them positively impact their organization—all as they learn techniques for communicating persuasively with others.

When results mattered most, renowned brands like Airbnb, The National Restaurant Association, The League of Women Voters, The League of Conservation have trusted Jeff to develop and implement communications plans to persuade elected officials, the media, and the general public. And as an expert on persuasive communications, Jeff continues to deliver results for influential clients.

Other industry experts have validated Jeff’s work through numerous awards including the prestigious The American Advertising Awards.

Jeff has impacted thousands of lives through over 500 presentations including keynotes and seminars. Others feature Jeff’s expertise in persuasive communications through articles, podcasts, and blogs.

Jeff’s highly anticipated second book, Unleashing Your Superpower: Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need is scheduled for completion in January 2019. Listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Jeff shares the story of how he adopted his baby daughter in Haiti.
  • The really valuable lesson Jeff learned from his experience in Haiti.
  • Changing your mindset from one of manipulation to one of persuasion.
  • The two words that indicate that you've successfully persuaded somebody.
  • Showing someone a new vision of how things could be.
  • Getting what you want by helping others to get what they want.
  • Three ways to get to know what someone really wants.
  • Some tools to use when making a real connection with a potential client, and getting them to like you.
  • People will remember how you made them feel, so make them feel heard and understood, and valuable.
  • Placing yourself firmly in the shoes of a potential client.
  • Putting a lot of thought into what you say and the language you use.
  • Jeff shares 3 strategies to create better online influence.
  • Helping people to trust you.
  • Figuring out your only-ness, to really stand out and set yourself apart.
  • Staying consistent with who you are and what you do.
  • Three tips to help you to position your message so that people will say "yes".

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Nancy Ganzekaufer #15, #159 and #256

Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, and #337

Sponsored episodes by Article.Com #301 and #367

Links:

Website: Jeff Tippett

Twitter: Jeff Tippett

Facebook: Jeff Tippett Speaker

LinkedIn: Jeff Tippett

YouTube: Jeff In Cary

Book: Pixels Are the New Ink: 3 Steps to Digital Domination In Your Industry

To look into Article.com: Well Designed Article

Text the word PERSUADE to 66866, to be informed when Jeff's new book, Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need, becomes available. You will also get a free chapter of the book right away.

]]> 2935 no 382: Alyce Lopez: Intention + Focus = A Successful Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/382-alyce-lopez-intention-focus-a-successful-interior-design-business Welcome to the show! Today we have Alyce Lopez with us. She is one of LuAnn's real-life friends, and also the principal of The True House in Tula Vista, California. Although Alyce is still a 'baby designer', she's a really smart lady! She knows that being an interior designer is her business and not a hobby. She is also very clear on what she does and how she does it. On the show today Alyce talks to us about the way she runs her business and how she's built it up to profiting six-figures in under three years. There is so much you can learn from Alyce on today's show! Listen in to find out more! Alyce Lopez owns and operates The True House, a full-service interior design firm that specializes in residential design for busy, young families. She began her career in interior design after purchasing a fixer-upper with her husband. The two navigated through renovations on a 1950's rambler maximizing their creativity and pocket change. The True House came about organically after documenting their home renovations on social media. Alyce grew up in southern California in Aliso Viejo, CA.  Growing up near some of the most beautiful beaches, she was always inspired by natural textures and elements. Alyce graduated with a degree in education.  In 2006, she married her husband who teaches kindergarten locally in Chula Vista.  Today, Alyce is mother to two young children (ages 5 & 7) and her pug, Mochi. TTH focuses on bringing a transitional aesthetic to the common builder grade home in south San Diego.  Alyce prides herself in making each home more functional and livable for young families while respecting her clients' budgets.  She believes your home should be a reflection of your personal style and provide customized features that make life more enjoyable.  The True House recognizes that your home is your largest financial investment and it should be treated with the proper care and attention.     The True House is the top reviewed interior designer in south San Diego. Alyce has been featured as a style spotter for industry shows and is a brand ambassador for Revolution Performance fabrics. You can find her work published by SD Voyager and Furniture Today. Listen in to find out what Alyce has to share about her interior design business. Show highlights: Some of the things Alyce has established as important parameters in her business. Establishing a really good relationship with a limited number of selected vendors. Tula Vista has organically become Alyce's niche area. Alyce's family-based approach to running her business. The importance of having a good work/life balance. Some tips for having a debt-free life and business. The type of design that Alyce focuses on and the services she provides. The benefits of offering clients blocks of time. The kind of value that Alyce provides for her clients. Alyce uses Acuity Scheduling to keep things organized. Where Alyce sources her furniture and accessories. Providing limited options when too many options could be confusing. How Alyce shares her trade-show experiences with her clients. The step-by-step process that Alyce uses with her clients. The way that Alyce structures her charges. The importance of planning ahead for your business. Resources: Books by Dave Ramsey Links: Website: The True House Facebook: The True House Instagram: @thetruehouse Tue, 04 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today we have Alyce Lopez with us. She is one of LuAnn's real-life friends, and also the principal of The True House in Tula Vista, California. Although Alyce is still a 'baby designer', she's a really smart lady! She knows that... Welcome to the show! Today we have Alyce Lopez with us. She is one of LuAnn's real-life friends, and also the principal of The True House in Tula Vista, California. Although Alyce is still a 'baby designer', she's a really smart lady! She knows that being an interior designer is her business and not a hobby. She is also very clear on what she does and how she does it. On the show today Alyce talks to us about the way she runs her business and how she's built it up to profiting six-figures in under three years. There is so much you can learn from Alyce on today's show! Listen in to find out more! Alyce Lopez owns and operates The True House, a full-service interior design firm that specializes in residential design for busy, young families. She began her career in interior design after purchasing a fixer-upper with her husband. The two navigated through renovations on a 1950's rambler maximizing their creativity and pocket change. The True House came about organically after documenting their home renovations on social media. Alyce grew up in southern California in Aliso Viejo, CA.  Growing up near some of the most beautiful beaches, she was always inspired by natural textures and elements. Alyce graduated with a degree in education.  In 2006, she married her husband who teaches kindergarten locally in Chula Vista.  Today, Alyce is mother to two young children (ages 5 & 7) and her pug, Mochi. TTH focuses on bringing a transitional aesthetic to the common builder grade home in south San Diego.  Alyce prides herself in making each home more functional and livable for young families while respecting her clients' budgets.  She believes your home should be a reflection of your personal style and provide customized features that make life more enjoyable.  The True House recognizes that your home is your largest financial investment and it should be treated with the proper care and attention.     The True House is the top reviewed interior designer in south San Diego. Alyce has been featured as a style spotter for industry shows and is a brand ambassador for Revolution Performance fabrics. You can find her work published by SD Voyager and Furniture Today. Listen in to find out what Alyce has to share about her interior design business. Show highlights: Some of the things Alyce has established as important parameters in her business. Establishing a really good relationship with a limited number of selected vendors. Tula Vista has organically become Alyce's niche area. Alyce's family-based approach to running her business. The importance of having a good work/life balance. Some tips for having a debt-free life and business. The type of design that Alyce focuses on and the services she provides. The benefits of offering clients blocks of time. The kind of value that Alyce provides for her clients. Alyce uses Acuity Scheduling to keep things organized. Where Alyce sources her furniture and accessories. Providing limited options when too many options could be confusing. How Alyce shares her trade-show experiences with her clients. The step-by-step process that Alyce uses with her clients. The way that Alyce structures her charges. The importance of planning ahead for your business. Resources: Books by Dave Ramsey Links: Website: The True House Facebook: The True House Instagram: @thetruehouse Welcome to the show! Today we have Alyce Lopez with us. She is one of LuAnn's real-life friends, and also the principal of The True House in Tula Vista, California. Although Alyce is still a 'baby designer', she's a really smart lady! She knows that being an interior designer is her business and not a hobby. She is also very clear on what she does and how she does it. On the show today Alyce talks to us about the way she runs her business and how she's built it up to profiting six-figures in under three years. There is so much you can learn from Alyce on today's show! Listen in to find out more!

Alyce Lopez owns and operates The True House, a full-service interior design firm that specializes in residential design for busy, young families. She began her career in interior design after purchasing a fixer-upper with her husband. The two navigated through renovations on a 1950's rambler maximizing their creativity and pocket change. The True House came about organically after documenting their home renovations on social media.

Alyce grew up in southern California in Aliso Viejo, CA.  Growing up near some of the most beautiful beaches, she was always inspired by natural textures and elements. Alyce graduated with a degree in education.  In 2006, she married her husband who teaches kindergarten locally in Chula Vista.  Today, Alyce is mother to two young children (ages 5 & 7) and her pug, Mochi.

TTH focuses on bringing a transitional aesthetic to the common builder grade home in south San Diego.  Alyce prides herself in making each home more functional and livable for young families while respecting her clients' budgets.  She believes your home should be a reflection of your personal style and provide customized features that make life more enjoyable.  The True House recognizes that your home is your largest financial investment and it should be treated with the proper care and attention.    

The True House is the top reviewed interior designer in south San Diego. Alyce has been featured as a style spotter for industry shows and is a brand ambassador for Revolution Performance fabrics. You can find her work published by SD Voyager and Furniture Today. Listen in to find out what Alyce has to share about her interior design business.

Show highlights:

  • Some of the things Alyce has established as important parameters in her business.
  • Establishing a really good relationship with a limited number of selected vendors.
  • Tula Vista has organically become Alyce's niche area.
  • Alyce's family-based approach to running her business.
  • The importance of having a good work/life balance.
  • Some tips for having a debt-free life and business.
  • The type of design that Alyce focuses on and the services she provides.
  • The benefits of offering clients blocks of time.
  • The kind of value that Alyce provides for her clients.
  • Alyce uses Acuity Scheduling to keep things organized.
  • Where Alyce sources her furniture and accessories.
  • Providing limited options when too many options could be confusing.
  • How Alyce shares her trade-show experiences with her clients.
  • The step-by-step process that Alyce uses with her clients.
  • The way that Alyce structures her charges.
  • The importance of planning ahead for your business.

Resources:

Books by Dave Ramsey

Links:

Website: The True House

Facebook: The True House

Instagram: @thetruehouse

]]> 3313 no 381: Power Talk Friday: Julie Broad: Write a Book to Market Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/381-power-talk-friday-julie-broad-write-a-book-to-market-your-interior-design-business Welcome to Power Talk Friday! As most of you know, on Fridays LuAnn talks to people, from any industry, who can share something with us that will enhance, grow, or make our business or personal lives make sense. Today we are very happy to have Julie Broad, an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best-Selling Author, join us on the show. Julie has a background in real estate and in branding. Having generated over six figures in revenue from her book sales alone, she now teaches authors how to build their brand and boost their business through her new company, Book Launchers.Com. Listen in today to find out how Julie could help you make a bigger impact with your interior design business by writing, publishing, and selling a top-quality book. Julie was born in Canada. She grew up in rural Alberta in a house attached to a 20 room Motel. Collecting the pop cans and beer bottles from the motel rooms, she used the money to invest in gold stocks which she used to pay for her first year of undergraduate education. When it was time to do her MBA, she used her savings to buy investment properties instead of fund her education. Student loans paid for school, and then the seven properties she owned by the end of her MBA paid off her student loans. Julie continued to apply the entrepreneurial lessons she learned from her parents (not her MBA, because that degree was pointless) as she grew her real estate portfolio, launched a real estate training and education company, and began to write books. She became an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best Selling Author, an International Book Award Winner, and recipient of the Beverly Hills Book Award for Best Sales book. Listen in to find out how Julie helps people achieve their goals. Show highlights: The benefits of self-publishing. Producing a book to give clients will really benefit small business owners or designers. Producing a book really demonstrates that you're an expert in your field and it can earn you tons of media as well! How much content has to be in your book for Amazon to sell it and provide you with printed copies of it. You can increase the content of your book by spacing it out and filling it in with pictures. How getting some assistance with structure, from someone like Julie, can really help to bring out of you what you already know. Friends and family probably won't tell you if your ideas really suck. The ways that Julie helps people position their book to appeal to their ideal reader. Putting your own flair into ordinary things. Some things to help you get to the heart of your brand. Some mistakes people make in communication that deludes their message. A tip about body language to help you become more confident. With self-publishing, it's 100% your book. Links: Website: Book Launchers YouTube: Julie Broad Facebook: Book Launchers Instagram: @juliebroad @booklaunchers Twitter: Book Launchers Fri, 30 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! As most of you know, on Fridays LuAnn talks to people, from any industry, who can share something with us that will enhance, grow, or make our business or personal lives make sense. Today we are very happy to have Julie... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! As most of you know, on Fridays LuAnn talks to people, from any industry, who can share something with us that will enhance, grow, or make our business or personal lives make sense. Today we are very happy to have Julie Broad, an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best-Selling Author, join us on the show. Julie has a background in real estate and in branding. Having generated over six figures in revenue from her book sales alone, she now teaches authors how to build their brand and boost their business through her new company, Book Launchers.Com. Listen in today to find out how Julie could help you make a bigger impact with your interior design business by writing, publishing, and selling a top-quality book. Julie was born in Canada. She grew up in rural Alberta in a house attached to a 20 room Motel. Collecting the pop cans and beer bottles from the motel rooms, she used the money to invest in gold stocks which she used to pay for her first year of undergraduate education. When it was time to do her MBA, she used her savings to buy investment properties instead of fund her education. Student loans paid for school, and then the seven properties she owned by the end of her MBA paid off her student loans. Julie continued to apply the entrepreneurial lessons she learned from her parents (not her MBA, because that degree was pointless) as she grew her real estate portfolio, launched a real estate training and education company, and began to write books. She became an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best Selling Author, an International Book Award Winner, and recipient of the Beverly Hills Book Award for Best Sales book. Listen in to find out how Julie helps people achieve their goals. Show highlights: The benefits of self-publishing. Producing a book to give clients will really benefit small business owners or designers. Producing a book really demonstrates that you're an expert in your field and it can earn you tons of media as well! How much content has to be in your book for Amazon to sell it and provide you with printed copies of it. You can increase the content of your book by spacing it out and filling it in with pictures. How getting some assistance with structure, from someone like Julie, can really help to bring out of you what you already know. Friends and family probably won't tell you if your ideas really suck. The ways that Julie helps people position their book to appeal to their ideal reader. Putting your own flair into ordinary things. Some things to help you get to the heart of your brand. Some mistakes people make in communication that deludes their message. A tip about body language to help you become more confident. With self-publishing, it's 100% your book. Links: Website: Book Launchers YouTube: Julie Broad Facebook: Book Launchers Instagram: @juliebroad @booklaunchers Twitter: Book Launchers Welcome to Power Talk Friday! As most of you know, on Fridays LuAnn talks to people, from any industry, who can share something with us that will enhance, grow, or make our business or personal lives make sense. Today we are very happy to have Julie Broad, an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best-Selling Author, join us on the show. Julie has a background in real estate and in branding. Having generated over six figures in revenue from her book sales alone, she now teaches authors how to build their brand and boost their business through her new company, Book Launchers.Com. Listen in today to find out how Julie could help you make a bigger impact with your interior design business by writing, publishing, and selling a top-quality book.

Julie was born in Canada. She grew up in rural Alberta in a house attached to a 20 room Motel. Collecting the pop cans and beer bottles from the motel rooms, she used the money to invest in gold stocks which she used to pay for her first year of undergraduate education. When it was time to do her MBA, she used her savings to buy investment properties instead of fund her education. Student loans paid for school, and then the seven properties she owned by the end of her MBA paid off her student loans. Julie continued to apply the entrepreneurial lessons she learned from her parents (not her MBA, because that degree was pointless) as she grew her real estate portfolio, launched a real estate training and education company, and began to write books. She became an Amazon Overall Number 1 Best Selling Author, an International Book Award Winner, and recipient of the Beverly Hills Book Award for Best Sales book. Listen in to find out how Julie helps people achieve their goals.

Show highlights:

  • The benefits of self-publishing.
  • Producing a book to give clients will really benefit small business owners or designers.
  • Producing a book really demonstrates that you're an expert in your field and it can earn you tons of media as well!
  • How much content has to be in your book for Amazon to sell it and provide you with printed copies of it.
  • You can increase the content of your book by spacing it out and filling it in with pictures.
  • How getting some assistance with structure, from someone like Julie, can really help to bring out of you what you already know.
  • Friends and family probably won't tell you if your ideas really suck.
  • The ways that Julie helps people position their book to appeal to their ideal reader.
  • Putting your own flair into ordinary things.
  • Some things to help you get to the heart of your brand.
  • Some mistakes people make in communication that deludes their message.
  • A tip about body language to help you become more confident.
  • With self-publishing, it's 100% your book.

Links:

Website: Book Launchers

YouTube: Julie Broad

Facebook: Book Launchers

Instagram: @juliebroad @booklaunchers

Twitter: Book Launchers

]]> 3226 no 380: Circle Design Studio: Architect & Interior Design Firm: John & Theresa Dorlini http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/380-circle-design-studio-architect-interior-design-firm-john-theresa-dorlini Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have John and Theresa Dorlini, the dynamic duo behind Circle Design Studio, with us today. The idea of CIRCLE was born in 2001 when, on their first official date at a sushi restaurant in downtown Tempe, John and Theresa made a pinky promise to build a design empire. On the show today we have a really great conversation with them about how they built their business and the way that they run it. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share with you. Circle Design Studio is located in Roanoke VA. Since its inception in 2005,  John and Theresa have expanded the CIRCLE family to encompass full-service design, including architecture and general contracting. John is the principal architect and he holds professional licenses as a Certified Interior Designer, Class A Contractor, and Architect in the states of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Those qualifications, combined with his background in design and construction administration for large-scale public projects, ensure a thorough drawing set that leads to accurate bidding and execution. Theresa is the principal interior designer and creative director. Her strength is seeing the “big picture”.  She has 20 years of interior design experience practicing in Arizona, Florida, and Virginia, and she works closely with all their clients, both residential and commercial, to develop a cohesive design concept that reflects their personal style or branding. Theresa is passionate about design education and she's taught at James Madison University, and also at her alma mater, Arizona State University. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Their way of explaining to a client why they would do well to make use of a designer, as well as a builder and an architect. Why they invest so much in their 3D visualizations. The programs that they prefer to use for their 3D visualizations, and why. How 3D modeling can help prevent disconnect with the various players working on projects. How it really helps to have an architect on board with their projects. The benefits of having a large body of work to show their clients. Words are just words, so images really help! They are busy creating a coffee table book. What they do to make projects easier to understand for their clients. Following the steps of a tried-and-true-process. Explaining to their clients, when discussing fees, that they're paying for John and Theresa's expertise. Everything about design comes really easily to Theresa. Designing seems really easy for some people, so it's easy for them to underestimate what actually goes into it. A book that John recommends is The Business of Design by Keith Granet. All about the vision statement they are busy creating. Being at the glorious point of being able to recognize the really valuable clients and let the others go. Realizing that it's all about serving the client. You have to be really good at what you do to work with the luxury market. Learning to be honest enough to just say 'no'. Putting things in writing can save your butt! Setting boundaries with clients. Creating a dual-purpose welcome-packet for clients. Ways to protect yourself from customers who tend to take advantage. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Darla Powell #330 Jason Byrne #311 Charles Pavarini #113 Resources: Book mentioned: The Business of Design by Keith Granet Links: Website: Circle Design Studio Facebook: Circle Design Studio Pinterest: Circle Design Studio Instagram: Circle Design Studio Blog: Curata Home Tue, 27 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have John and Theresa Dorlini, the dynamic duo behind Circle Design Studio, with us today. The idea of CIRCLE was born in 2001 when, on their first official date at a sushi restaurant in downtown Tempe,... Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have John and Theresa Dorlini, the dynamic duo behind Circle Design Studio, with us today. The idea of CIRCLE was born in 2001 when, on their first official date at a sushi restaurant in downtown Tempe, John and Theresa made a pinky promise to build a design empire. On the show today we have a really great conversation with them about how they built their business and the way that they run it. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share with you. Circle Design Studio is located in Roanoke VA. Since its inception in 2005,  John and Theresa have expanded the CIRCLE family to encompass full-service design, including architecture and general contracting. John is the principal architect and he holds professional licenses as a Certified Interior Designer, Class A Contractor, and Architect in the states of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Those qualifications, combined with his background in design and construction administration for large-scale public projects, ensure a thorough drawing set that leads to accurate bidding and execution. Theresa is the principal interior designer and creative director. Her strength is seeing the “big picture”.  She has 20 years of interior design experience practicing in Arizona, Florida, and Virginia, and she works closely with all their clients, both residential and commercial, to develop a cohesive design concept that reflects their personal style or branding. Theresa is passionate about design education and she's taught at James Madison University, and also at her alma mater, Arizona State University. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Their way of explaining to a client why they would do well to make use of a designer, as well as a builder and an architect. Why they invest so much in their 3D visualizations. The programs that they prefer to use for their 3D visualizations, and why. How 3D modeling can help prevent disconnect with the various players working on projects. How it really helps to have an architect on board with their projects. The benefits of having a large body of work to show their clients. Words are just words, so images really help! They are busy creating a coffee table book. What they do to make projects easier to understand for their clients. Following the steps of a tried-and-true-process. Explaining to their clients, when discussing fees, that they're paying for John and Theresa's expertise. Everything about design comes really easily to Theresa. Designing seems really easy for some people, so it's easy for them to underestimate what actually goes into it. A book that John recommends is The Business of Design by Keith Granet. All about the vision statement they are busy creating. Being at the glorious point of being able to recognize the really valuable clients and let the others go. Realizing that it's all about serving the client. You have to be really good at what you do to work with the luxury market. Learning to be honest enough to just say 'no'. Putting things in writing can save your butt! Setting boundaries with clients. Creating a dual-purpose welcome-packet for clients. Ways to protect yourself from customers who tend to take advantage. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Darla Powell #330 Jason Byrne #311 Charles Pavarini #113 Resources: Book mentioned: The Business of Design by Keith Granet Links: Website: Circle Design Studio Facebook: Circle Design Studio Pinterest: Circle Design Studio Instagram: Circle Design Studio Blog: Curata Home Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have John and Theresa Dorlini, the dynamic duo behind Circle Design Studio, with us today. The idea of CIRCLE was born in 2001 when, on their first official date at a sushi restaurant in downtown Tempe, John and Theresa made a pinky promise to build a design empire. On the show today we have a really great conversation with them about how they built their business and the way that they run it. Listen in today, to find out what they have to share with you.

Circle Design Studio is located in Roanoke VA. Since its inception in 2005,  John and Theresa have expanded the CIRCLE family to encompass full-service design, including architecture and general contracting.

John is the principal architect and he holds professional licenses as a Certified Interior Designer, Class A Contractor, and Architect in the states of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Those qualifications, combined with his background in design and construction administration for large-scale public projects, ensure a thorough drawing set that leads to accurate bidding and execution.

Theresa is the principal interior designer and creative director. Her strength is seeing the “big picture”.  She has 20 years of interior design experience practicing in Arizona, Florida, and Virginia, and she works closely with all their clients, both residential and commercial, to develop a cohesive design concept that reflects their personal style or branding. Theresa is passionate about design education and she's taught at James Madison University, and also at her alma mater, Arizona State University. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Their way of explaining to a client why they would do well to make use of a designer, as well as a builder and an architect.
  • Why they invest so much in their 3D visualizations.
  • The programs that they prefer to use for their 3D visualizations, and why.
  • How 3D modeling can help prevent disconnect with the various players working on projects.
  • How it really helps to have an architect on board with their projects.
  • The benefits of having a large body of work to show their clients.
  • Words are just words, so images really help!
  • They are busy creating a coffee table book.
  • What they do to make projects easier to understand for their clients.
  • Following the steps of a tried-and-true-process.
  • Explaining to their clients, when discussing fees, that they're paying for John and Theresa's expertise.
  • Everything about design comes really easily to Theresa.
  • Designing seems really easy for some people, so it's easy for them to underestimate what actually goes into it.
  • A book that John recommends is The Business of Design by Keith Granet.
  • All about the vision statement they are busy creating.
  • Being at the glorious point of being able to recognize the really valuable clients and let the others go.
  • Realizing that it's all about serving the client.
  • You have to be really good at what you do to work with the luxury market.
  • Learning to be honest enough to just say 'no'.
  • Putting things in writing can save your butt!
  • Setting boundaries with clients.
  • Creating a dual-purpose welcome-packet for clients.
  • Ways to protect yourself from customers who tend to take advantage.

Previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Darla Powell #330

Jason Byrne #311

Charles Pavarini #113

Resources:

Book mentioned: The Business of Design by Keith Granet

Links:

Website: Circle Design Studio

Facebook: Circle Design Studio

Pinterest: Circle Design Studio

Instagram: Circle Design Studio

Blog: Curata Home

]]> 4925 no 379: Power Talk Friday: The Ladies of Badassery on Creating an Engaged Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/379-power-talk-friday-the-ladies-of-badassery-on-creating-an-engaged-community Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Samantha Parker and Kathy Rasmussen, the partners in the Badassery Community, with us on the show today. Samantha and Kathy are the co-founders of Badassery Magazine, the co-hosts of the Badassery Podcast, and they also have a book out, called Badassery Styled Community. These ladies are very real. They are trailblazers and they are on a mission. Together, they are creating an ultra-engaged community of women entrepreneurs who are fully committed to living bold and passion-filled lives. On the show today they share some great guiding principals on being authentic and doing things your way. Listen in to find out about the very significant work that these two dynamic ladies are doing. Badassery Magazine is a resource for female business owners to navigate and embody the Badassery Lifestyle. The magazine features articles written by their community of contributors on topics including Entrepreneurship, Branding, Marketing, Mindset, Self Care, Health & Beauty, Home, Family, Travel, Food & Drink Recipes, Entertainment, Music, and lots more. Samantha is ridiculously passionate about living a life of true Badassery. She believes that we all rise together and she puts community over competition. She has been featured on NowThis, The Daily Vee, Bold TV, and numerous interviews and podcasts. Kathy is an idea cultivating machine and can strategically birth your idea to life. When she’s not busy connecting other entrepreneurs with fabulous experiences, you can find her being featured on NowThis, Bold TV, numerous interviews and podcasts. Kathy is passionate about owning who you are and stepping into the spotlight. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The backstory of how the Badass Community was started. How Samantha and Kathy first met. Kathy explains what she does, as an implementation strategist. Knowing your where your passion lies and what fulfills you. About the brand pillars of the Badass Community. Some pillars that would benefit designers. Embracing who you are and letting your authentic personality shine through. Thinking about what you want to be known for. Creating consistency throughout all your messaging. Determining what your brand pillars should be. The process of welcoming people to a community. Growing your design business through a Facebook community. Cultivating conversations within a Facebook community. Giving value and sharing your expertise within a Facebook community will get people to hire you. Getting loyalty from the personality brand you're creating. Things that are necessary, but not obvious about the backend of running a community. Some of the things they do that really make the members feel special and want to stay in the community. To restrict your community or not? Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Nancy Holla #377 Colleen Prim #359 Nicole Heymer #125 and #137 Claire Jefford #237 and 325 Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214 Dixie Willard #273 Links: Website: Badassery Magazine Facebook: Badassery Magazine Instagram: Badassery Magazine Badassery Mag: Badassery Magazine Badassery Podcast: Badassery Podcast Fri, 23 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Samantha Parker and Kathy Rasmussen, the partners in the Badassery Community, with us on the show today. Samantha and Kathy are the co-founders of Badassery Magazine, the co-hosts of the Badassery Podcast, and... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Samantha Parker and Kathy Rasmussen, the partners in the Badassery Community, with us on the show today. Samantha and Kathy are the co-founders of Badassery Magazine, the co-hosts of the Badassery Podcast, and they also have a book out, called Badassery Styled Community. These ladies are very real. They are trailblazers and they are on a mission. Together, they are creating an ultra-engaged community of women entrepreneurs who are fully committed to living bold and passion-filled lives. On the show today they share some great guiding principals on being authentic and doing things your way. Listen in to find out about the very significant work that these two dynamic ladies are doing. Badassery Magazine is a resource for female business owners to navigate and embody the Badassery Lifestyle. The magazine features articles written by their community of contributors on topics including Entrepreneurship, Branding, Marketing, Mindset, Self Care, Health & Beauty, Home, Family, Travel, Food & Drink Recipes, Entertainment, Music, and lots more. Samantha is ridiculously passionate about living a life of true Badassery. She believes that we all rise together and she puts community over competition. She has been featured on NowThis, The Daily Vee, Bold TV, and numerous interviews and podcasts. Kathy is an idea cultivating machine and can strategically birth your idea to life. When she’s not busy connecting other entrepreneurs with fabulous experiences, you can find her being featured on NowThis, Bold TV, numerous interviews and podcasts. Kathy is passionate about owning who you are and stepping into the spotlight. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The backstory of how the Badass Community was started. How Samantha and Kathy first met. Kathy explains what she does, as an implementation strategist. Knowing your where your passion lies and what fulfills you. About the brand pillars of the Badass Community. Some pillars that would benefit designers. Embracing who you are and letting your authentic personality shine through. Thinking about what you want to be known for. Creating consistency throughout all your messaging. Determining what your brand pillars should be. The process of welcoming people to a community. Growing your design business through a Facebook community. Cultivating conversations within a Facebook community. Giving value and sharing your expertise within a Facebook community will get people to hire you. Getting loyalty from the personality brand you're creating. Things that are necessary, but not obvious about the backend of running a community. Some of the things they do that really make the members feel special and want to stay in the community. To restrict your community or not? Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Nancy Holla #377 Colleen Prim #359 Nicole Heymer #125 and #137 Claire Jefford #237 and 325 Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214 Dixie Willard #273 Links: Website: Badassery Magazine Facebook: Badassery Magazine Instagram: Badassery Magazine Badassery Mag: Badassery Magazine Badassery Podcast: Badassery Podcast Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Samantha Parker and Kathy Rasmussen, the partners in the Badassery Community, with us on the show today. Samantha and Kathy are the co-founders of Badassery Magazine, the co-hosts of the Badassery Podcast, and they also have a book out, called Badassery Styled Community. These ladies are very real. They are trailblazers and they are on a mission. Together, they are creating an ultra-engaged community of women entrepreneurs who are fully committed to living bold and passion-filled lives. On the show today they share some great guiding principals on being authentic and doing things your way. Listen in to find out about the very significant work that these two dynamic ladies are doing.

Badassery Magazine is a resource for female business owners to navigate and embody the Badassery Lifestyle. The magazine features articles written by their community of contributors on topics including Entrepreneurship, Branding, Marketing, Mindset, Self Care, Health & Beauty, Home, Family, Travel, Food & Drink Recipes, Entertainment, Music, and lots more.

Samantha is ridiculously passionate about living a life of true Badassery. She believes that we all rise together and she puts community over competition. She has been featured on NowThis, The Daily Vee, Bold TV, and numerous interviews and podcasts.

Kathy is an idea cultivating machine and can strategically birth your idea to life. When she’s not busy connecting other entrepreneurs with fabulous experiences, you can find her being featured on NowThis, Bold TV, numerous interviews and podcasts. Kathy is passionate about owning who you are and stepping into the spotlight. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • The backstory of how the Badass Community was started.
  • How Samantha and Kathy first met.
  • Kathy explains what she does, as an implementation strategist.
  • Knowing your where your passion lies and what fulfills you.
  • About the brand pillars of the Badass Community.
  • Some pillars that would benefit designers.
  • Embracing who you are and letting your authentic personality shine through.
  • Thinking about what you want to be known for.
  • Creating consistency throughout all your messaging.
  • Determining what your brand pillars should be.
  • The process of welcoming people to a community.
  • Growing your design business through a Facebook community.
  • Cultivating conversations within a Facebook community.
  • Giving value and sharing your expertise within a Facebook community will get people to hire you.
  • Getting loyalty from the personality brand you're creating.
  • Things that are necessary, but not obvious about the backend of running a community.
  • Some of the things they do that really make the members feel special and want to stay in the community.
  • To restrict your community or not?

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

Nancy Holla #377

Colleen Prim #359

Nicole Heymer #125 and #137

Claire Jefford #237 and 325

Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214

Dixie Willard #273

Links:

Website: Badassery Magazine

Facebook: Badassery Magazine

Instagram: Badassery Magazine

Badassery Mag: Badassery Magazine

Badassery Podcast: Badassery Podcast

]]> 4290 no 378: Charles, 9th Earl Spencer: Unveils Royal Furniture Line for Theodore Alexander http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/378-charles-9th-earl-spencer-unveils-royal-furniture-line-for-theodore-alexander Welcome to the show! You're really in for a royal treat today! We're very excited to share LuAnn's interview with Charles, the 9th Earl Spencer, as he unveils the Royal Funiture line for Theodore Alexander. LuAnn did this interview live, in person, at the Theodore Alexander Showroom in High Point, North Carolina. Lord Spencer is the younger brother of Diana, Princess of Wales. He is also a British nobleman, peer, author, journalist, and broadcaster. The Althorp Living History furniture collection was designed in partnership with Theodore Alexander. And it encompasses replications of furniture found in the 500-year-old Althorp Estate where Lord Spencer and Diana grew up. Listen in today to find out what Lord Spencer has to share about the Althorp Living History furniture collection. For five centuries, Althorp - a sprawling English estate in bucolic Northamptonshire - has served as the primary residence of the Spencers, one of the most distinguished, aristocratic families in England with ties to Winston Spencer Churchill and the ancestors of George Washington. It was this combination of rich legacy and the home’s warm, beautiful interiors that drew fine furniture maker Theodore Alexander to Althorp. The resulting collection of furniture and upholstery pieces in Althorp Living History draws inspiration from treasures gathered during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries by Althorp’s famous inhabitants. Theodore Alexander is renowned for unmatched craftsmanship, exquisite finishes, and extraordinary design. Covering a diversity of periods and styles, their collections encompass thousands of unique lighting, home accents, case goods, and upholstered furnishings. Theodore Alexander and its licensed collections (Althorp Living History, Keno Bros. for Theodore Alexander, Jamie Drake for Theodore Alexander, Michael Berman for Theodore Alexander, and Steve Leung for Theodore Alexander) are available throughout the world at fine furniture galleries and design centers. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: The “Spencer heritage” — 500 years of history in the Althorp Estate and how that history is captured in the furniture. The wonderful responsibility of being heir to the Althorp Estate. Retaining Althorp as a place of entertainment. For Lord Spencer, history is about people- not about dusty, dry facts. How the relationship between Lord Spencer and Theodore Alexander began. Lord Spencer enjoys the passion that Theodore Alexander has for the heritage of the furniture collection. Lord Spencer is able to provide the backstory of every single piece of furniture in the Althorp Living History line. How Theodore Alexander has helped to preserve the Althorp history and heritage through the furniture line. Lord Spencer talks about his favorite pieces in the collection. What buyers can expect when purchasing an Althorp/Theodore Alexander piece. Owning a cherished piece of history with the opportunity to create your own heritage with pieces with a rich history. What designers should know about the value of the Althorp Living History furniture collection, and also of Theodore Alexander, as a company, when considering introducing the furniture line into their projects. Links: Theodore Alexander's website:  Theodore Alexander. Furniture Collection: Email: c@clairemontcommunications.com / msmiley@theodorealexander.com / ostrowski.anna97@gmail.com The video of this interview is available on LuAnn's Youtube channel: Youtube Tue, 20 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! You're really in for a royal treat today! We're very excited to share LuAnn's interview with Charles, the 9th Earl Spencer, as he unveils the Royal Funiture line for Theodore Alexander. LuAnn did this interview live, in person, at... Welcome to the show! You're really in for a royal treat today! We're very excited to share LuAnn's interview with Charles, the 9th Earl Spencer, as he unveils the Royal Funiture line for Theodore Alexander. LuAnn did this interview live, in person, at the Theodore Alexander Showroom in High Point, North Carolina. Lord Spencer is the younger brother of Diana, Princess of Wales. He is also a British nobleman, peer, author, journalist, and broadcaster. The Althorp Living History furniture collection was designed in partnership with Theodore Alexander. And it encompasses replications of furniture found in the 500-year-old Althorp Estate where Lord Spencer and Diana grew up. Listen in today to find out what Lord Spencer has to share about the Althorp Living History furniture collection. For five centuries, Althorp - a sprawling English estate in bucolic Northamptonshire - has served as the primary residence of the Spencers, one of the most distinguished, aristocratic families in England with ties to Winston Spencer Churchill and the ancestors of George Washington. It was this combination of rich legacy and the home’s warm, beautiful interiors that drew fine furniture maker Theodore Alexander to Althorp. The resulting collection of furniture and upholstery pieces in Althorp Living History draws inspiration from treasures gathered during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries by Althorp’s famous inhabitants. Theodore Alexander is renowned for unmatched craftsmanship, exquisite finishes, and extraordinary design. Covering a diversity of periods and styles, their collections encompass thousands of unique lighting, home accents, case goods, and upholstered furnishings. Theodore Alexander and its licensed collections (Althorp Living History, Keno Bros. for Theodore Alexander, Jamie Drake for Theodore Alexander, Michael Berman for Theodore Alexander, and Steve Leung for Theodore Alexander) are available throughout the world at fine furniture galleries and design centers. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: The “Spencer heritage” — 500 years of history in the Althorp Estate and how that history is captured in the furniture. The wonderful responsibility of being heir to the Althorp Estate. Retaining Althorp as a place of entertainment. For Lord Spencer, history is about people- not about dusty, dry facts. How the relationship between Lord Spencer and Theodore Alexander began. Lord Spencer enjoys the passion that Theodore Alexander has for the heritage of the furniture collection. Lord Spencer is able to provide the backstory of every single piece of furniture in the Althorp Living History line. How Theodore Alexander has helped to preserve the Althorp history and heritage through the furniture line. Lord Spencer talks about his favorite pieces in the collection. What buyers can expect when purchasing an Althorp/Theodore Alexander piece. Owning a cherished piece of history with the opportunity to create your own heritage with pieces with a rich history. What designers should know about the value of the Althorp Living History furniture collection, and also of Theodore Alexander, as a company, when considering introducing the furniture line into their projects. Links: Theodore Alexander's website:  Theodore Alexander. Furniture Collection: Email: c@clairemontcommunications.com / msmiley@theodorealexander.com / ostrowski.anna97@gmail.com The video of this interview is available on LuAnn's Youtube channel: Youtube Welcome to the show! You're really in for a royal treat today! We're very excited to share LuAnn's interview with Charles, the 9th Earl Spencer, as he unveils the Royal Funiture line for Theodore Alexander. LuAnn did this interview live, in person, at the Theodore Alexander Showroom in High Point, North Carolina. Lord Spencer is the younger brother of Diana, Princess of Wales. He is also a British nobleman, peer, author, journalist, and broadcaster. The Althorp Living History furniture collection was designed in partnership with Theodore Alexander. And it encompasses replications of furniture found in the 500-year-old Althorp Estate where Lord Spencer and Diana grew up. Listen in today to find out what Lord Spencer has to share about the Althorp Living History furniture collection.

For five centuries, Althorp - a sprawling English estate in bucolic Northamptonshire - has served as the primary residence of the Spencers, one of the most distinguished, aristocratic families in England with ties to Winston Spencer Churchill and the ancestors of George Washington.

It was this combination of rich legacy and the home’s warm, beautiful interiors that drew fine furniture maker Theodore Alexander to Althorp. The resulting collection of furniture and upholstery pieces in Althorp Living History draws inspiration from treasures gathered during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries by Althorp’s famous inhabitants.

Theodore Alexander is renowned for unmatched craftsmanship, exquisite finishes, and extraordinary design. Covering a diversity of periods and styles, their collections encompass thousands of unique lighting, home accents, case goods, and upholstered furnishings. Theodore Alexander and its licensed collections (Althorp Living History, Keno Bros. for Theodore Alexander, Jamie Drake for Theodore Alexander, Michael Berman for Theodore Alexander, and Steve Leung for Theodore Alexander) are available throughout the world at fine furniture galleries and design centers. Listen in today to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • The “Spencer heritage” — 500 years of history in the Althorp Estate and how that history is captured in the furniture.
  • The wonderful responsibility of being heir to the Althorp Estate.
  • Retaining Althorp as a place of entertainment.
  • For Lord Spencer, history is about people- not about dusty, dry facts.
  • How the relationship between Lord Spencer and Theodore Alexander began.
  • Lord Spencer enjoys the passion that Theodore Alexander has for the heritage of the furniture collection.
  • Lord Spencer is able to provide the backstory of every single piece of furniture in the Althorp Living History line.
  • How Theodore Alexander has helped to preserve the Althorp history and heritage through the furniture line.
  • Lord Spencer talks about his favorite pieces in the collection.
  • What buyers can expect when purchasing an Althorp/Theodore Alexander piece.
  • Owning a cherished piece of history with the opportunity to create your own heritage with pieces with a rich history.
  • What designers should know about the value of the Althorp Living History furniture collection, and also of Theodore Alexander, as a company, when considering introducing the furniture line into their projects.

Links:

Theodore Alexander's website:  Theodore Alexander.

Furniture Collection:

Email: c@clairemontcommunications.com / msmiley@theodorealexander.com / ostrowski.anna97@gmail.com

The video of this interview is available on LuAnn's Youtube channel: Youtube

]]> 1004 no 377: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Hala: Branding Expert & Co-Host with Sheri Salata of This Is Fifty http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/377-power-talk-friday-nancy-hala-branding-expert-co-host-with-sheri-salata-of-this-is-fifty Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Nancy Hala today. Nancy is a branding expert and she's also co-host of the podcast This Is Fifty With Sheri and Nancy. LuAnn truly loves and enjoys what Nancy and her co-host Sheri Salata are doing! Nancy and Sheri joined forces when they were both in their mid-fifties, to launch their company, start their podcast, and begin living The Pillar Life. They decided at the time that it's never too late to make the rest of their dreams come true. And both still had a ton of dreams left that they really wanted to come true! On the show today, apart from picking Nancy's expert brain, as a brand strategist, we will be talking to her about The Pillar Life, and leaning into starting a new life with career changes. Because sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and trust that the universe will support you. So listen in today to find out what Nancy has to share with you. Nancy is a chief visionary of The Pillar Life. And This Is Fifty with Sheri + Nancy is a popular podcast about redefining and rebranding the middle of life. Sheri Salata and Nancy are lifelong soul-sister friends. And on their podcast they’re having conversations with experts, teachers and uplifters about fueling their imaginations and igniting the eight most important pillars of their lives: Health + Wellness, Spirituality + Happiness, Romance + Sex, Friends + Family, Creativity + Innovation, Adventure + Discovery, Sanctuary + Beauty, and Money + Abundance. Nancy is also the innovator behind BrandStory, a trademark combination of brand strategy, storytelling and audience building, helping organizations articulate who they are, what they stand for, and where their brand’s spirit meets its mission. Nancy extends her business brand practice into personal brand development, working with individuals and groups in bespoke workshops designed to help participants understand and express their own personal brands. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: Nancy shares her (and Sheri's) core beliefs. Nancy believes that taking the risk and trusting in the support of the universe will open doors for you. Learning to dream without limitations. Most people really love their brand, or their organzation, as an extension of themselves. Their first mantra, when Sheri and Nancy started their company, was 'dream big'. Shedding old beliefs about safety and security creates fun and excitement! Starting your own company or creating your own brand is one of the most creative things you can do as a business owner. Having a business is all about connecting with people- so you have to speak to them in a way that they can hear and understand you. The stories we tell ourselves make our dreams come true. Creating a really great narrative for your brand. Nancy's four v's: vision, values, virtues and voice. A vision is the foundational component of a brand story. Your virtues set you apart from your competitors or your peers. Your voice is the energy behind your brand. You need to be interested in something in order to be successful at it. Getting to the core of what really sets you apart from the rest. Getting into the virtue of what you do with authenticity and fearlessness. The Pillar Life consists of eight areas of life (or pillars) that we need to focus on, expand our energy over, and elevate our experience around. Nancy discusses her and Sheri's reckoning moment. Content has to have a framework. And The Pillar Life has become the framework for Nancy and Sheri's narrative. Finding your own, unique point of view on each pillar. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Amber Lewis #169 and #184 Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125 and #317 Links: The Pillar Life  10 Easy Steps to Launch The Pillar Life Fri, 16 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Nancy Hala today. Nancy is a branding expert and she's also co-host of the podcast This Is Fifty With Sheri and Nancy. LuAnn truly loves and enjoys what Nancy and her co-host Sheri Salata... Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Nancy Hala today. Nancy is a branding expert and she's also co-host of the podcast This Is Fifty With Sheri and Nancy. LuAnn truly loves and enjoys what Nancy and her co-host Sheri Salata are doing! Nancy and Sheri joined forces when they were both in their mid-fifties, to launch their company, start their podcast, and begin living The Pillar Life. They decided at the time that it's never too late to make the rest of their dreams come true. And both still had a ton of dreams left that they really wanted to come true! On the show today, apart from picking Nancy's expert brain, as a brand strategist, we will be talking to her about The Pillar Life, and leaning into starting a new life with career changes. Because sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and trust that the universe will support you. So listen in today to find out what Nancy has to share with you. Nancy is a chief visionary of The Pillar Life. And This Is Fifty with Sheri + Nancy is a popular podcast about redefining and rebranding the middle of life. Sheri Salata and Nancy are lifelong soul-sister friends. And on their podcast they’re having conversations with experts, teachers and uplifters about fueling their imaginations and igniting the eight most important pillars of their lives: Health + Wellness, Spirituality + Happiness, Romance + Sex, Friends + Family, Creativity + Innovation, Adventure + Discovery, Sanctuary + Beauty, and Money + Abundance. Nancy is also the innovator behind BrandStory, a trademark combination of brand strategy, storytelling and audience building, helping organizations articulate who they are, what they stand for, and where their brand’s spirit meets its mission. Nancy extends her business brand practice into personal brand development, working with individuals and groups in bespoke workshops designed to help participants understand and express their own personal brands. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: Nancy shares her (and Sheri's) core beliefs. Nancy believes that taking the risk and trusting in the support of the universe will open doors for you. Learning to dream without limitations. Most people really love their brand, or their organzation, as an extension of themselves. Their first mantra, when Sheri and Nancy started their company, was 'dream big'. Shedding old beliefs about safety and security creates fun and excitement! Starting your own company or creating your own brand is one of the most creative things you can do as a business owner. Having a business is all about connecting with people- so you have to speak to them in a way that they can hear and understand you. The stories we tell ourselves make our dreams come true. Creating a really great narrative for your brand. Nancy's four v's: vision, values, virtues and voice. A vision is the foundational component of a brand story. Your virtues set you apart from your competitors or your peers. Your voice is the energy behind your brand. You need to be interested in something in order to be successful at it. Getting to the core of what really sets you apart from the rest. Getting into the virtue of what you do with authenticity and fearlessness. The Pillar Life consists of eight areas of life (or pillars) that we need to focus on, expand our energy over, and elevate our experience around. Nancy discusses her and Sheri's reckoning moment. Content has to have a framework. And The Pillar Life has become the framework for Nancy and Sheri's narrative. Finding your own, unique point of view on each pillar. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Amber Lewis #169 and #184 Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125 and #317 Links: The Pillar Life  10 Easy Steps to Launch The Pillar Life Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Nancy Hala today. Nancy is a branding expert and she's also co-host of the podcast This Is Fifty With Sheri and Nancy. LuAnn truly loves and enjoys what Nancy and her co-host Sheri Salata are doing! Nancy and Sheri joined forces when they were both in their mid-fifties, to launch their company, start their podcast, and begin living The Pillar Life. They decided at the time that it's never too late to make the rest of their dreams come true. And both still had a ton of dreams left that they really wanted to come true! On the show today, apart from picking Nancy's expert brain, as a brand strategist, we will be talking to her about The Pillar Life, and leaning into starting a new life with career changes. Because sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and trust that the universe will support you. So listen in today to find out what Nancy has to share with you.

Nancy is a chief visionary of The Pillar Life. And This Is Fifty with Sheri + Nancy is a popular podcast about redefining and rebranding the middle of life. Sheri Salata and Nancy are lifelong soul-sister friends. And on their podcast they’re having conversations with experts, teachers and uplifters about fueling their imaginations and igniting the eight most important pillars of their lives: Health + Wellness, Spirituality + Happiness, Romance + Sex, Friends + Family, Creativity + Innovation, Adventure + Discovery, Sanctuary + Beauty, and Money + Abundance.

Nancy is also the innovator behind BrandStory, a trademark combination of brand strategy, storytelling and audience building, helping organizations articulate who they are, what they stand for, and where their brand’s spirit meets its mission. Nancy extends her business brand practice into personal brand development, working with individuals and groups in bespoke workshops designed to help participants understand and express their own personal brands. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • Nancy shares her (and Sheri's) core beliefs.
  • Nancy believes that taking the risk and trusting in the support of the universe will open doors for you.
  • Learning to dream without limitations.
  • Most people really love their brand, or their organzation, as an extension of themselves.
  • Their first mantra, when Sheri and Nancy started their company, was 'dream big'.
  • Shedding old beliefs about safety and security creates fun and excitement!
  • Starting your own company or creating your own brand is one of the most creative things you can do as a business owner.
  • Having a business is all about connecting with people- so you have to speak to them in a way that they can hear and understand you.
  • The stories we tell ourselves make our dreams come true.
  • Creating a really great narrative for your brand.
  • Nancy's four v's: vision, values, virtues and voice.
  • A vision is the foundational component of a brand story.
  • Your virtues set you apart from your competitors or your peers.
  • Your voice is the energy behind your brand.
  • You need to be interested in something in order to be successful at it.
  • Getting to the core of what really sets you apart from the rest.
  • Getting into the virtue of what you do with authenticity and fearlessness.
  • The Pillar Life consists of eight areas of life (or pillars) that we need to focus on, expand our energy over, and elevate our experience around.
  • Nancy discusses her and Sheri's reckoning moment.
  • Content has to have a framework. And The Pillar Life has become the framework for Nancy and Sheri's narrative.
  • Finding your own, unique point of view on each pillar.

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

Amber Lewis #169 and #184

Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125 and #317

Links:

The Pillar Life 

10 Easy Steps to Launch The Pillar Life

]]> 3857 no 376: Cat French: The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business®, #babydesigner Killing It! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/376-cat-french-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business-babydesigner-killing-it Welcome to today's show! We have Catherine French, the founder of Catherine French Design, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with us today. Cat has been listening to this podcast since it first started, about two-and-a-half years ago. This was around the same time that she started her design business. Recently, Cat sent LuAnn a really nice email, telling her about the things she had learned from A Well-Designed Business. In the letter, she listed the things that she has really taken seriously from the podcast and implemented in her business. And right from the start, she has really been tremendously successful! Cat's firm is currently approaching half-a-million dollars in gross revenue per year- in under two-and-a-half years! So listen in today, as Cat talks to LuAnn about her business, and gives some context to the way that it all began for her. Cat loves color, pattern, texture, form, and has a passion for working with people. She focuses on color and balance to make rooms more warm, inviting and habitable. Her design is a unique blend of psychology, culture, color, and function with an emphasis on the principals of design and art taken from her formal Arts education and training.  Embracing full collaboration in creating a harmonious space, she spends time in the spaces with her clients developing their vision and then guiding them through the full process of a turn-key installation. After obtaining her Bachelors in Psychology from Wake Forest University, Cat later went on to pursue her Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. While teaching the Environmental Design Studio at UNCG, she presented her work at several State and National conventions as an expert on Interior Design and Historic Preservation. Now Cat leads a passionate and enthusiastic team of design professionals that guide inspirations into reality at Catherine French Design. Listen in to find out what Cat has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Cat talks about the beginning of her business, two-and-a-half years ago, and everything that happened at the time. Enlisting the help of a stylist for the first time. Taking advice from this podcast turned out to be one of the best things she ever did. Cat enlisted some help from a neighbor, Jamie, and he's still with her business now, almost two years later. Now, Cat's team is really diverse and wonderful! How Cat came up with how much to charge her first clients. Cat explains why she mostly still charges an hourly rate. All about how Cat managed to have the hard conversation with one of her very first clients and hire someone to get the project finished on time. Cat had to make time to be with her family, or her business would have been pointless for her, so her whole firm does not work in the evenings or over weekends. Cat's way of dealing with unforeseen problems. Hiring the right person at the right time. What happened when Cat realized that she couldn't make payroll one month. How Cat learned that you have to always have to show up and put your team first. How Cat first started marketing her firm with blog posts to get SEO exposure. Showing her team that she wasn't giving up! Dealing with accounting problems in her business. Working out how much needs to be brought into the business, in order to keep things running smoothly. Talking to Caroline Hipple, co-author of Pathway To Profit. Making everyone in the team feel important. Maintaining boundaries and being brave enough to only work with clients that are the right fit. Untangling from projects that aren't the right fit. The importance of maintaining an attitude of professionalism and respect. LuAnn's second book, co-authored by Michele Willaims of The Scarlet Thread, will be launched at the next birthday celebration in February, next year. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Dina Holland #354 Michele Williams #137 and #180 Resources: Book: A Pathway to Profit by Caroline Hipple, Anita Pugh, Chris Matthies, and Dixon Bartlett Links: Website - Catherine French Design Instagram - Catherine French Design Pinterest - Cat French Design Facebook - Catherine French Design Tue, 13 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Catherine French, the founder of Catherine French Design, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with us today. Cat has been listening to this podcast since it first started, about two-and-a-half years ago. This was... Welcome to today's show! We have Catherine French, the founder of Catherine French Design, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with us today. Cat has been listening to this podcast since it first started, about two-and-a-half years ago. This was around the same time that she started her design business. Recently, Cat sent LuAnn a really nice email, telling her about the things she had learned from A Well-Designed Business. In the letter, she listed the things that she has really taken seriously from the podcast and implemented in her business. And right from the start, she has really been tremendously successful! Cat's firm is currently approaching half-a-million dollars in gross revenue per year- in under two-and-a-half years! So listen in today, as Cat talks to LuAnn about her business, and gives some context to the way that it all began for her. Cat loves color, pattern, texture, form, and has a passion for working with people. She focuses on color and balance to make rooms more warm, inviting and habitable. Her design is a unique blend of psychology, culture, color, and function with an emphasis on the principals of design and art taken from her formal Arts education and training.  Embracing full collaboration in creating a harmonious space, she spends time in the spaces with her clients developing their vision and then guiding them through the full process of a turn-key installation. After obtaining her Bachelors in Psychology from Wake Forest University, Cat later went on to pursue her Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. While teaching the Environmental Design Studio at UNCG, she presented her work at several State and National conventions as an expert on Interior Design and Historic Preservation. Now Cat leads a passionate and enthusiastic team of design professionals that guide inspirations into reality at Catherine French Design. Listen in to find out what Cat has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Cat talks about the beginning of her business, two-and-a-half years ago, and everything that happened at the time. Enlisting the help of a stylist for the first time. Taking advice from this podcast turned out to be one of the best things she ever did. Cat enlisted some help from a neighbor, Jamie, and he's still with her business now, almost two years later. Now, Cat's team is really diverse and wonderful! How Cat came up with how much to charge her first clients. Cat explains why she mostly still charges an hourly rate. All about how Cat managed to have the hard conversation with one of her very first clients and hire someone to get the project finished on time. Cat had to make time to be with her family, or her business would have been pointless for her, so her whole firm does not work in the evenings or over weekends. Cat's way of dealing with unforeseen problems. Hiring the right person at the right time. What happened when Cat realized that she couldn't make payroll one month. How Cat learned that you have to always have to show up and put your team first. How Cat first started marketing her firm with blog posts to get SEO exposure. Showing her team that she wasn't giving up! Dealing with accounting problems in her business. Working out how much needs to be brought into the business, in order to keep things running smoothly. Talking to Caroline Hipple, co-author of Pathway To Profit. Making everyone in the team feel important. Maintaining boundaries and being brave enough to only work with clients that are the right fit. Untangling from projects that aren't the right fit. The importance of maintaining an attitude of professionalism and respect. LuAnn's second book, co-authored by Michele Willaims of The Scarlet Thread, will be launched at the next birthday celebration in February, next year. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Dina Holland #354 Michele Williams #137 and #180 Resources: Book: A Pathway to Profit by Caroline Hipple, Anita Pugh, Chris Matthies, and Dixon Bartlett Links: Website - Catherine French Design Instagram - Catherine French Design Pinterest - Cat French Design Facebook - Catherine French Design Welcome to today's show! We have Catherine French, the founder of Catherine French Design, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with us today. Cat has been listening to this podcast since it first started, about two-and-a-half years ago. This was around the same time that she started her design business. Recently, Cat sent LuAnn a really nice email, telling her about the things she had learned from A Well-Designed Business. In the letter, she listed the things that she has really taken seriously from the podcast and implemented in her business. And right from the start, she has really been tremendously successful! Cat's firm is currently approaching half-a-million dollars in gross revenue per year- in under two-and-a-half years! So listen in today, as Cat talks to LuAnn about her business, and gives some context to the way that it all began for her.

Cat loves color, pattern, texture, form, and has a passion for working with people. She focuses on color and balance to make rooms more warm, inviting and habitable. Her design is a unique blend of psychology, culture, color, and function with an emphasis on the principals of design and art taken from her formal Arts education and training.  Embracing full collaboration in creating a harmonious space, she spends time in the spaces with her clients developing their vision and then guiding them through the full process of a turn-key installation.

After obtaining her Bachelors in Psychology from Wake Forest University, Cat later went on to pursue her Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. While teaching the Environmental Design Studio at UNCG, she presented her work at several State and National conventions as an expert on Interior Design and Historic Preservation. Now Cat leads a passionate and enthusiastic team of design professionals that guide inspirations into reality at Catherine French Design. Listen in to find out what Cat has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Cat talks about the beginning of her business, two-and-a-half years ago, and everything that happened at the time.
  • Enlisting the help of a stylist for the first time.
  • Taking advice from this podcast turned out to be one of the best things she ever did.
  • Cat enlisted some help from a neighbor, Jamie, and he's still with her business now, almost two years later.
  • Now, Cat's team is really diverse and wonderful!
  • How Cat came up with how much to charge her first clients.
  • Cat explains why she mostly still charges an hourly rate.
  • All about how Cat managed to have the hard conversation with one of her very first clients and hire someone to get the project finished on time.
  • Cat had to make time to be with her family, or her business would have been pointless for her, so her whole firm does not work in the evenings or over weekends.
  • Cat's way of dealing with unforeseen problems.
  • Hiring the right person at the right time.
  • What happened when Cat realized that she couldn't make payroll one month.
  • How Cat learned that you have to always have to show up and put your team first.
  • How Cat first started marketing her firm with blog posts to get SEO exposure.
  • Showing her team that she wasn't giving up!
  • Dealing with accounting problems in her business.
  • Working out how much needs to be brought into the business, in order to keep things running smoothly.
  • Talking to Caroline Hipple, co-author of Pathway To Profit.
  • Making everyone in the team feel important.
  • Maintaining boundaries and being brave enough to only work with clients that are the right fit.
  • Untangling from projects that aren't the right fit.
  • The importance of maintaining an attitude of professionalism and respect.
  • LuAnn's second book, co-authored by Michele Willaims of The Scarlet Thread, will be launched at the next birthday celebration in February, next year.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Dina Holland #354

Michele Williams #137 and #180

Resources:

Book: A Pathway to Profit by Caroline Hipple, Anita Pugh, Chris Matthies, and Dixon Bartlett

Links:

Website - Catherine French Design

Instagram - Catherine French Design

Pinterest - Cat French Design

Facebook - Catherine French Design

]]> 4477 no 375: Power Talk Friday: Bonnie Fahy: How to Hire a Virtual Assistant for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/375-power-talk-friday-bonnie-fahy-how-to-hire-a-virtual-assistant-for-your-interior-design-business Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! We have Bonnie Fahy with us on the show. Bonnie is the creator of Source It!, which Forbes once called "the world’s premier education in online hiring and outsourcing for entrepreneurs". Although outsourcing is the obvious thing for a number of businesses to do, LuAnn wasn't a hundred percent sure that it would be transferable to the design industry. After having a conversation with Bonnie, however, she decided that it was viable for us. Because there are so many things that go into running a business and you really don't have to do it all yourself. So you could consider employing a virtual assistant. And Bonnie specializes in helping people understand the best process for hiring VAs. Listen in today to find out what Bonnie has to share with you. From her humble beginnings as a balloon artist, Bonnie Fahy has grown to become the ultimate hiring guru, helping hundreds of overwhelmed business owners balance their dreams with a work lifestyle that suits them best. She stumbled on outsourcing early in her internet marketing career and she was amazed to see her profits quadruple in only three short months! This really inspired her, so she began consulting with, and helping other entrepreneurs to grow their businesses to six and seven figures using the same strategies and methods. Bonnie has helped a roster of prominent entrepreneurs take back their time by leveraging high-quality virtual assistants, web developers and graphic designers for a fraction of the cost. Her business insights are based on the foundations of personal development and human psychology, and the shortcuts she teaches her mentees have helped them spectacularly transformed their lives. Listen in to hear about Bonnie's powerful strategies. Show highlights: Why Bonnie thinks that a VA is such a viable resource for a small business owner. You can hire a much higher level person from the Philippines at a fraction of the cost. Hiring the right person for the task. Taking responsibility for clear communication. Systematizing things is vital. Your VA can actually help you to create and document systems. Where hybrid sourcing comes into the picture. People are often unsure about which tasks to delegate. Bonnie has loads of free content on her website. The kind of tasks an online assistant could do for you, as an interior designer. Mastering the art of communication through conflict. Tools for protecting passwords while allowing someone else to use them. Freeing yourself up to do the things you do best. The kind of person to look for as a VA. Where to go, find the best VA. Writing a really compelling job ad. Testing for agreeableness. Finding the perfect person for the perfect price. Doing 'get to know you' calls. Resources for finding online assistance outside the US. Remember that it's always about the process. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Madeleine MacRae # 315 Resources for finding online assistance in the US: Craig's List Indeed.com Facebook Recommended resources for finding online assistance outside the US: International Facebook groups for VAs. OnlineJobs.ph VirtualStaff.ph Links: Bonnie Fahy Bonnie Fahy Get Source It Bonnie's Free Training For the automated webinar go to The Live More Formula Fri, 09 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! We have Bonnie Fahy with us on the show. Bonnie is the creator of Source It!, which Forbes once called "the world’s premier education in online hiring and outsourcing for entrepreneurs". Although outsourcing is... Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! We have Bonnie Fahy with us on the show. Bonnie is the creator of Source It!, which Forbes once called "the world’s premier education in online hiring and outsourcing for entrepreneurs". Although outsourcing is the obvious thing for a number of businesses to do, LuAnn wasn't a hundred percent sure that it would be transferable to the design industry. After having a conversation with Bonnie, however, she decided that it was viable for us. Because there are so many things that go into running a business and you really don't have to do it all yourself. So you could consider employing a virtual assistant. And Bonnie specializes in helping people understand the best process for hiring VAs. Listen in today to find out what Bonnie has to share with you. From her humble beginnings as a balloon artist, Bonnie Fahy has grown to become the ultimate hiring guru, helping hundreds of overwhelmed business owners balance their dreams with a work lifestyle that suits them best. She stumbled on outsourcing early in her internet marketing career and she was amazed to see her profits quadruple in only three short months! This really inspired her, so she began consulting with, and helping other entrepreneurs to grow their businesses to six and seven figures using the same strategies and methods. Bonnie has helped a roster of prominent entrepreneurs take back their time by leveraging high-quality virtual assistants, web developers and graphic designers for a fraction of the cost. Her business insights are based on the foundations of personal development and human psychology, and the shortcuts she teaches her mentees have helped them spectacularly transformed their lives. Listen in to hear about Bonnie's powerful strategies. Show highlights: Why Bonnie thinks that a VA is such a viable resource for a small business owner. You can hire a much higher level person from the Philippines at a fraction of the cost. Hiring the right person for the task. Taking responsibility for clear communication. Systematizing things is vital. Your VA can actually help you to create and document systems. Where hybrid sourcing comes into the picture. People are often unsure about which tasks to delegate. Bonnie has loads of free content on her website. The kind of tasks an online assistant could do for you, as an interior designer. Mastering the art of communication through conflict. Tools for protecting passwords while allowing someone else to use them. Freeing yourself up to do the things you do best. The kind of person to look for as a VA. Where to go, find the best VA. Writing a really compelling job ad. Testing for agreeableness. Finding the perfect person for the perfect price. Doing 'get to know you' calls. Resources for finding online assistance outside the US. Remember that it's always about the process. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Madeleine MacRae # 315 Resources for finding online assistance in the US: Craig's List Indeed.com Facebook Recommended resources for finding online assistance outside the US: International Facebook groups for VAs. OnlineJobs.ph VirtualStaff.ph Links: Bonnie Fahy Bonnie Fahy Get Source It Bonnie's Free Training For the automated webinar go to The Live More Formula Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! We have Bonnie Fahy with us on the show. Bonnie is the creator of Source It!, which Forbes once called "the world’s premier education in online hiring and outsourcing for entrepreneurs". Although outsourcing is the obvious thing for a number of businesses to do, LuAnn wasn't a hundred percent sure that it would be transferable to the design industry. After having a conversation with Bonnie, however, she decided that it was viable for us. Because there are so many things that go into running a business and you really don't have to do it all yourself. So you could consider employing a virtual assistant. And Bonnie specializes in helping people understand the best process for hiring VAs. Listen in today to find out what Bonnie has to share with you.

From her humble beginnings as a balloon artist, Bonnie Fahy has grown to become the ultimate hiring guru, helping hundreds of overwhelmed business owners balance their dreams with a work lifestyle that suits them best. She stumbled on outsourcing early in her internet marketing career and she was amazed to see her profits quadruple in only three short months! This really inspired her, so she began consulting with, and helping other entrepreneurs to grow their businesses to six and seven figures using the same strategies and methods. Bonnie has helped a roster of prominent entrepreneurs take back their time by leveraging high-quality virtual assistants, web developers and graphic designers for a fraction of the cost. Her business insights are based on the foundations of personal development and human psychology, and the shortcuts she teaches her mentees have helped them spectacularly transformed their lives. Listen in to hear about Bonnie's powerful strategies.

Show highlights:

  • Why Bonnie thinks that a VA is such a viable resource for a small business owner.
  • You can hire a much higher level person from the Philippines at a fraction of the cost.
  • Hiring the right person for the task.
  • Taking responsibility for clear communication.
  • Systematizing things is vital.
  • Your VA can actually help you to create and document systems.
  • Where hybrid sourcing comes into the picture.
  • People are often unsure about which tasks to delegate.
  • Bonnie has loads of free content on her website.
  • The kind of tasks an online assistant could do for you, as an interior designer.
  • Mastering the art of communication through conflict.
  • Tools for protecting passwords while allowing someone else to use them.
  • Freeing yourself up to do the things you do best.
  • The kind of person to look for as a VA.
  • Where to go, find the best VA.
  • Writing a really compelling job ad.
  • Testing for agreeableness.
  • Finding the perfect person for the perfect price.
  • Doing 'get to know you' calls.
  • Resources for finding online assistance outside the US.
  • Remember that it's always about the process.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Madeleine MacRae # 315

Resources for finding online assistance in the US:

Craig's List

Indeed.com

Facebook

Recommended resources for finding online assistance outside the US:

International Facebook groups for VAs.

OnlineJobs.ph

VirtualStaff.ph

Links:

Bonnie Fahy

Bonnie Fahy

Get Source It

Bonnie's Free Training

For the automated webinar go to The Live More Formula

]]> 3565 no 374: Ellie Mroz: The Reveal Install & Working with Trades http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/374-ellie-mroz-the-reveal-install-working-with-trades Welcome! Today you're in for a treat! We have Ellie Mroz joining us, and she's a really talented designer and also an astute businesswoman. We're very fortunate here at Window Works to be doing the window treatments for all Ellie's projects. Today, Ellie discusses her niche with us. And get this- her niche isn't a particular style of design or even an ideal client. It's it's the town where she and her husband grew up, fell in love, and started their family! On the show today we also take a look at the hard conversations that you will need to have with vendors and clients when unforeseen things happen. Listen in to find out more. Ellie’s passion for interiors began in the world of fashion. After she graduated from Cornell University, she enjoyed several years of internships in ready-to-wear and jewelry design, merchandising, and public relations. Finally, her love of beautiful things brought her into interior design. This transition was natural for Ellie because her husband’s residential home remodeling business, Michael Robert Construction, started growing. And his clients started asking Ellie for her help in choosing all the finishes. From there, the husband and wife design/build team grew and a boutique interior design firm was born. Since 2015, Ellie has been asked to appear in several episodes of George Oliphant's show, George to the Rescue NBC, as the on-air talent who helps families in need create beautiful spaces. And these beautiful spaces really improve the quality of the lives of these families, as well as the quality of their homes. Listen in to hear what Ellie has to share with you today! Show highlights: Ellie talks about her involvement with George To The Rescue. Why it's really worth investing in a receiving warehouse where they hold all your goods until you're ready for the majority install. Designers really need to be there when the delivery for an installation happens. Setting expectations with a new client right in the beginning. Ellie and her husband, Mike, have two separate companies and they don't always work together. Ellie talks about her really unique niche. Ellie prefers to take on few jobs and really make them profitable. Ellie has recently added a new service called Design Therapy. Ellie tailor's her style to each client. Some really great advice that Ellie received from a photographer. The joy of owning your niche fully. How to deal with it when things go wrong working on a project with contractors, subcontractors, and vendors. Some tools and tactics for avoiding dramas. Why you should never ditch old emails. The value of spending real time on site with your contractors. Developing the skill set to have the hard conversation with clients. What's coming up for Ellie in the future. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Raquel Langworthy #343 Links: Website - Ellie Mroz Design Instagram - Ellie Mroz Design Pinterest - Ellie Mroz Design The custom home-building project that Ellie is documenting on Instagram: #Shadowlawndrive Michael, Ellie's husband's website: Michael Robert Construction Tue, 06 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today you're in for a treat! We have Ellie Mroz joining us, and she's a really talented designer and also an astute businesswoman. We're very fortunate here at Window Works to be doing the window treatments for all Ellie's projects. Today,... Welcome! Today you're in for a treat! We have Ellie Mroz joining us, and she's a really talented designer and also an astute businesswoman. We're very fortunate here at Window Works to be doing the window treatments for all Ellie's projects. Today, Ellie discusses her niche with us. And get this- her niche isn't a particular style of design or even an ideal client. It's it's the town where she and her husband grew up, fell in love, and started their family! On the show today we also take a look at the hard conversations that you will need to have with vendors and clients when unforeseen things happen. Listen in to find out more. Ellie’s passion for interiors began in the world of fashion. After she graduated from Cornell University, she enjoyed several years of internships in ready-to-wear and jewelry design, merchandising, and public relations. Finally, her love of beautiful things brought her into interior design. This transition was natural for Ellie because her husband’s residential home remodeling business, Michael Robert Construction, started growing. And his clients started asking Ellie for her help in choosing all the finishes. From there, the husband and wife design/build team grew and a boutique interior design firm was born. Since 2015, Ellie has been asked to appear in several episodes of George Oliphant's show, George to the Rescue NBC, as the on-air talent who helps families in need create beautiful spaces. And these beautiful spaces really improve the quality of the lives of these families, as well as the quality of their homes. Listen in to hear what Ellie has to share with you today! Show highlights: Ellie talks about her involvement with George To The Rescue. Why it's really worth investing in a receiving warehouse where they hold all your goods until you're ready for the majority install. Designers really need to be there when the delivery for an installation happens. Setting expectations with a new client right in the beginning. Ellie and her husband, Mike, have two separate companies and they don't always work together. Ellie talks about her really unique niche. Ellie prefers to take on few jobs and really make them profitable. Ellie has recently added a new service called Design Therapy. Ellie tailor's her style to each client. Some really great advice that Ellie received from a photographer. The joy of owning your niche fully. How to deal with it when things go wrong working on a project with contractors, subcontractors, and vendors. Some tools and tactics for avoiding dramas. Why you should never ditch old emails. The value of spending real time on site with your contractors. Developing the skill set to have the hard conversation with clients. What's coming up for Ellie in the future. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Raquel Langworthy #343 Links: Website - Ellie Mroz Design Instagram - Ellie Mroz Design Pinterest - Ellie Mroz Design The custom home-building project that Ellie is documenting on Instagram: #Shadowlawndrive Michael, Ellie's husband's website: Michael Robert Construction Welcome! Today you're in for a treat! We have Ellie Mroz joining us, and she's a really talented designer and also an astute businesswoman. We're very fortunate here at Window Works to be doing the window treatments for all Ellie's projects. Today, Ellie discusses her niche with us. And get this- her niche isn't a particular style of design or even an ideal client. It's it's the town where she and her husband grew up, fell in love, and started their family! On the show today we also take a look at the hard conversations that you will need to have with vendors and clients when unforeseen things happen. Listen in to find out more.

Ellie’s passion for interiors began in the world of fashion. After she graduated from Cornell University, she enjoyed several years of internships in ready-to-wear and jewelry design, merchandising, and public relations. Finally, her love of beautiful things brought her into interior design. This transition was natural for Ellie because her husband’s residential home remodeling business, Michael Robert Construction, started growing. And his clients started asking Ellie for her help in choosing all the finishes. From there, the husband and wife design/build team grew and a boutique interior design firm was born.

Since 2015, Ellie has been asked to appear in several episodes of George Oliphant's show, George to the Rescue NBC, as the on-air talent who helps families in need create beautiful spaces. And these beautiful spaces really improve the quality of the lives of these families, as well as the quality of their homes. Listen in to hear what Ellie has to share with you today!

Show highlights:

  • Ellie talks about her involvement with George To The Rescue.
  • Why it's really worth investing in a receiving warehouse where they hold all your goods until you're ready for the majority install.
  • Designers really need to be there when the delivery for an installation happens.
  • Setting expectations with a new client right in the beginning.
  • Ellie and her husband, Mike, have two separate companies and they don't always work together.
  • Ellie talks about her really unique niche.
  • Ellie prefers to take on few jobs and really make them profitable.
  • Ellie has recently added a new service called Design Therapy.
  • Ellie tailor's her style to each client.
  • Some really great advice that Ellie received from a photographer.
  • The joy of owning your niche fully.
  • How to deal with it when things go wrong working on a project with contractors, subcontractors, and vendors.
  • Some tools and tactics for avoiding dramas.
  • Why you should never ditch old emails.
  • The value of spending real time on site with your contractors.
  • Developing the skill set to have the hard conversation with clients.
  • What's coming up for Ellie in the future.

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Raquel Langworthy #343

Links:

Website - Ellie Mroz Design

Instagram - Ellie Mroz Design

Pinterest - Ellie Mroz Design

The custom home-building project that Ellie is documenting on Instagram: #Shadowlawndrive

Michael, Ellie's husband's website: Michael Robert Construction

]]> 4227 no 373: Power Talk Friday: Inspired Leadership at Pollack Creates Exceptional Company Culture http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/373-power-talk-friday-inspired-leadership-at-pollack-creates-exceptional-company-culture Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to two very interesting women today. We have Susan Whalen, the president of Pollack, and Rachel Doriss, Pollack's design director, with us on the show. These women have both been in the design industry for decades and on the show today they talk to us about the types of opportunities that are available in the industry, other than doing interior design. They also talk about the leadership at Pollack and their company culture of encouraging creativity, loyalty, and longevity in their entire team. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create and lead a really exceptional business. Susan earned a BA from The University of Arizona in 1996. She was appointed as president of Pollack/Weitzner in 2017 due to her forward-thinking vision. She began her career at Polack in 1999 as studio manager, working alongside the founding creative director, Mark Pollack. There she learned every aspect of design and product development for contract and residential textiles. In 2004 she shifted to the business side to work under Rick Sullivan, the founding president. Then, in 2006, she was appointed as vice president and chief operating officer. In the position of COO, Susan took the led role in Pollack's merger with Weitzner in 2011. She is currently spearheading the implementation of a new operating system and the development of improved digital platforms to support the future growth and adaptability of Pollack/Weitzner. Susan now resides in Brooklyn, NY. In her free time, she enjoys traveling internationally and renovating her weekend home in rural Pennsylvania. Rachel has textile design in her DNA. She studied printmaking and painting and even taught batik workshops when she first entered college. But it was in the Textile Design department at the Rhode Island School of Design that she realized, for the first time, the practical application of her beloved woven and printed textile techniques. She graduated with a BFA from RISD in 1999 and designed printed silk scarves at Echo before joining the Pollack Studio in 2000. In 2007, Rachel was appointed Vice President, Associate Design Director. She took the helm as Pollack’s Design Director in 2012, overseeing the Studio and guiding the creative vision for each textile collection. In the Studio, she and her team always begin a pattern by first creating artwork by hand. Rachel’s designs for Pollack have been featured in national magazines, including Architectural Digest, Interior Design and Elle Décor, and she has been profiled on such sites as Apartment Therapy and House and Home TV. Two of her creations, “Mod” and “Curlycue,” are in the permanent collection of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum. Join us today and get the inspiration do things in your firm to make it the kind of place people really want to be engaged with! Show highlights: Other kinds of career opportunities within the design industry. What really goes into textile manufacture. What it takes to become a textile designer. You get involved in the textile industry for the love of what you do, not for the money! The partnership between Pollack and Lori Weitzner. How having a collaboration, or a licensed collection works. Working with Gary Graham, a New York-based fashion designer. The need for inspiration when creating a collection. A quick run through the development of a fabric. The whole chain of love and pain that goes into the design and development of a beautiful fabric. About the really terrific "Pollack culture". Some great tips for cultivating a really successful team. Inspiring employees towards longevity with longer vacations. Really creative "First Fridays" at Pollack. An "Ugly Sweater" contest at the office! Supporting employees through difficult times. Pollack has their product in showrooms in most of the major territories. Pollack has worldwide distribution- in Asia, the UK, and France. Links: Website: Pollack Associates Instagram: @pollacktextiles Facebook:  Pollack Textiles Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Lori Weitzner #308 Eileen Hahn # 363 Janelle Photopoulos # 364 Candace Olsen #74 Amber Lewis #184 Shea McGee #236 and 270 with Syd Corey Damen Jenkins #127 Fri, 02 Nov 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to two very interesting women today. We have Susan Whalen, the president of Pollack, and Rachel Doriss, Pollack's design director, with us on the show. These women have both been in the... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to two very interesting women today. We have Susan Whalen, the president of Pollack, and Rachel Doriss, Pollack's design director, with us on the show. These women have both been in the design industry for decades and on the show today they talk to us about the types of opportunities that are available in the industry, other than doing interior design. They also talk about the leadership at Pollack and their company culture of encouraging creativity, loyalty, and longevity in their entire team. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create and lead a really exceptional business. Susan earned a BA from The University of Arizona in 1996. She was appointed as president of Pollack/Weitzner in 2017 due to her forward-thinking vision. She began her career at Polack in 1999 as studio manager, working alongside the founding creative director, Mark Pollack. There she learned every aspect of design and product development for contract and residential textiles. In 2004 she shifted to the business side to work under Rick Sullivan, the founding president. Then, in 2006, she was appointed as vice president and chief operating officer. In the position of COO, Susan took the led role in Pollack's merger with Weitzner in 2011. She is currently spearheading the implementation of a new operating system and the development of improved digital platforms to support the future growth and adaptability of Pollack/Weitzner. Susan now resides in Brooklyn, NY. In her free time, she enjoys traveling internationally and renovating her weekend home in rural Pennsylvania. Rachel has textile design in her DNA. She studied printmaking and painting and even taught batik workshops when she first entered college. But it was in the Textile Design department at the Rhode Island School of Design that she realized, for the first time, the practical application of her beloved woven and printed textile techniques. She graduated with a BFA from RISD in 1999 and designed printed silk scarves at Echo before joining the Pollack Studio in 2000. In 2007, Rachel was appointed Vice President, Associate Design Director. She took the helm as Pollack’s Design Director in 2012, overseeing the Studio and guiding the creative vision for each textile collection. In the Studio, she and her team always begin a pattern by first creating artwork by hand. Rachel’s designs for Pollack have been featured in national magazines, including Architectural Digest, Interior Design and Elle Décor, and she has been profiled on such sites as Apartment Therapy and House and Home TV. Two of her creations, “Mod” and “Curlycue,” are in the permanent collection of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum. Join us today and get the inspiration do things in your firm to make it the kind of place people really want to be engaged with! Show highlights: Other kinds of career opportunities within the design industry. What really goes into textile manufacture. What it takes to become a textile designer. You get involved in the textile industry for the love of what you do, not for the money! The partnership between Pollack and Lori Weitzner. How having a collaboration, or a licensed collection works. Working with Gary Graham, a New York-based fashion designer. The need for inspiration when creating a collection. A quick run through the development of a fabric. The whole chain of love and pain that goes into the design and development of a beautiful fabric. About the really terrific "Pollack culture". Some great tips for cultivating a really successful team. Inspiring employees towards longevity with longer vacations. Really creative "First Fridays" at Pollack. An "Ugly Sweater" contest at the office! Supporting employees through difficult times. Pollack has their product in showrooms in most of the major territories. Pollack has worldwide distribution- in Asia, the UK, and France. Links: Website: Pollack Associates Instagram: @pollacktextiles Facebook:  Pollack Textiles Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Lori Weitzner #308 Eileen Hahn # 363 Janelle Photopoulos # 364 Candace Olsen #74 Amber Lewis #184 Shea McGee #236 and 270 with Syd Corey Damen Jenkins #127 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to two very interesting women today. We have Susan Whalen, the president of Pollack, and Rachel Doriss, Pollack's design director, with us on the show. These women have both been in the design industry for decades and on the show today they talk to us about the types of opportunities that are available in the industry, other than doing interior design. They also talk about the leadership at Pollack and their company culture of encouraging creativity, loyalty, and longevity in their entire team. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create and lead a really exceptional business.

Susan earned a BA from The University of Arizona in 1996. She was appointed as president of Pollack/Weitzner in 2017 due to her forward-thinking vision. She began her career at Polack in 1999 as studio manager, working alongside the founding creative director, Mark Pollack. There she learned every aspect of design and product development for contract and residential textiles. In 2004 she shifted to the business side to work under Rick Sullivan, the founding president. Then, in 2006, she was appointed as vice president and chief operating officer. In the position of COO, Susan took the led role in Pollack's merger with Weitzner in 2011. She is currently spearheading the implementation of a new operating system and the development of improved digital platforms to support the future growth and adaptability of Pollack/Weitzner. Susan now resides in Brooklyn, NY. In her free time, she enjoys traveling internationally and renovating her weekend home in rural Pennsylvania.

Rachel has textile design in her DNA. She studied printmaking and painting and even taught batik workshops when she first entered college. But it was in the Textile Design department at the Rhode Island School of Design that she realized, for the first time, the practical application of her beloved woven and printed textile techniques. She graduated with a BFA from RISD in 1999 and designed printed silk scarves at Echo before joining the Pollack Studio in 2000. In 2007, Rachel was appointed Vice President, Associate Design Director. She took the helm as Pollack’s Design Director in 2012, overseeing the Studio and guiding the creative vision for each textile collection. In the Studio, she and her team always begin a pattern by first creating artwork by hand. Rachel’s designs for Pollack have been featured in national magazines, including Architectural Digest, Interior Design and Elle Décor, and she has been profiled on such sites as Apartment Therapy and House and Home TV. Two of her creations, “Mod” and “Curlycue,” are in the permanent collection of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum. Join us today and get the inspiration do things in your firm to make it the kind of place people really want to be engaged with!

Show highlights:

  • Other kinds of career opportunities within the design industry.
  • What really goes into textile manufacture.
  • What it takes to become a textile designer.
  • You get involved in the textile industry for the love of what you do, not for the money!
  • The partnership between Pollack and Lori Weitzner.
  • How having a collaboration, or a licensed collection works.
  • Working with Gary Graham, a New York-based fashion designer.
  • The need for inspiration when creating a collection.
  • A quick run through the development of a fabric.
  • The whole chain of love and pain that goes into the design and development of a beautiful fabric.
  • About the really terrific "Pollack culture".
  • Some great tips for cultivating a really successful team.
  • Inspiring employees towards longevity with longer vacations.
  • Really creative "First Fridays" at Pollack.
  • An "Ugly Sweater" contest at the office!
  • Supporting employees through difficult times.
  • Pollack has their product in showrooms in most of the major territories.
  • Pollack has worldwide distribution- in Asia, the UK, and France.

Links:

Website: Pollack Associates

Instagram: @pollacktextiles

Facebook:  Pollack Textiles

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Lori Weitzner #308

Eileen Hahn # 363

Janelle Photopoulos # 364

Candace Olsen #74

Amber Lewis #184

Shea McGee #236 and 270 with Syd

Corey Damen Jenkins #127

]]> 3797 no 372: Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/372-laura-michaels-how-to-talk-budget-with-your-interior-design-clients Welcome to today's episode! We know that you're really going to love it! We have Laura Michaels with us today and she is an experienced and insightful designer who knows how to tell it like it is. On the show, we have a very straightforward conversation with her about talking budget with clients. Laura is very confident in her process and in the service she offers, and she really knows how to hold her ground in these conversations. Listen in today, become inspired, and learn from Laura's expertise, and her really confident way of dealing with clients. Laura Michaels Design is a full-service design firm specializing in residential and commercial interiors out of Greenwich CT. Having started her career as a fashion designer, Laura Michaels is no stranger to developing complete collections filled with layers of textures, patterns, and colors. Laura thrives on the challenge of finding the perfect combination of textiles and other materials, then integrating them in unique and unexpected ways. Laura spends much of her time sourcing fabric, carpet, lighting and more...from all over the world and prides herself on her thorough knowledge of the market. Laura is also proud of her ability to source the "right" item at the ''right'' price. If cost, size or availability become an issue, her design skills allow her to create the perfect piece in one of her many custom factories.  Her extensive knowledge of the market makes the design process quick and easy, but never routine. Her artistic vision transforms the space into warm and inviting interiors and it is Laura’s goal to provide a warm, inviting environment that is enjoyed by her homeowners and will last the test of time. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Developing the skill set to really understand your ideal client. Some red flags to look out for with a client. The kind of client that Laura works with. Looking at a potential client's expectations before their budget. There are millions of different supplier websites for all budgets. Laura's way of dealing with clients who are not clear about their budget. Managing your client's expectations. Laura loves the challenge of fulfilling a client's expectations on a limited budget. Things that people don't understand about hiring an interior designer. Hiring a designer can really be price effective. Establishing the ground rules around the budget upfront. Laura's way of obtaining art for her clients. Having the budget conversation with clients. Referrals are really important. You need to be confident and know your value to avoid being taken advantage of. Links: Website: Laura Michaels Design Instagram: The Laura Michaels Design Pinterest: Pinterest e-mail: Laura@Lauramichaelsdesign.com Find Luann on Instagram Tue, 30 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We know that you're really going to love it! We have Laura Michaels with us today and she is an experienced and insightful designer who knows how to tell it like it is. On the show, we have a very straightforward... Welcome to today's episode! We know that you're really going to love it! We have Laura Michaels with us today and she is an experienced and insightful designer who knows how to tell it like it is. On the show, we have a very straightforward conversation with her about talking budget with clients. Laura is very confident in her process and in the service she offers, and she really knows how to hold her ground in these conversations. Listen in today, become inspired, and learn from Laura's expertise, and her really confident way of dealing with clients. Laura Michaels Design is a full-service design firm specializing in residential and commercial interiors out of Greenwich CT. Having started her career as a fashion designer, Laura Michaels is no stranger to developing complete collections filled with layers of textures, patterns, and colors. Laura thrives on the challenge of finding the perfect combination of textiles and other materials, then integrating them in unique and unexpected ways. Laura spends much of her time sourcing fabric, carpet, lighting and more...from all over the world and prides herself on her thorough knowledge of the market. Laura is also proud of her ability to source the "right" item at the ''right'' price. If cost, size or availability become an issue, her design skills allow her to create the perfect piece in one of her many custom factories.  Her extensive knowledge of the market makes the design process quick and easy, but never routine. Her artistic vision transforms the space into warm and inviting interiors and it is Laura’s goal to provide a warm, inviting environment that is enjoyed by her homeowners and will last the test of time. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Developing the skill set to really understand your ideal client. Some red flags to look out for with a client. The kind of client that Laura works with. Looking at a potential client's expectations before their budget. There are millions of different supplier websites for all budgets. Laura's way of dealing with clients who are not clear about their budget. Managing your client's expectations. Laura loves the challenge of fulfilling a client's expectations on a limited budget. Things that people don't understand about hiring an interior designer. Hiring a designer can really be price effective. Establishing the ground rules around the budget upfront. Laura's way of obtaining art for her clients. Having the budget conversation with clients. Referrals are really important. You need to be confident and know your value to avoid being taken advantage of. Links: Website: Laura Michaels Design Instagram: The Laura Michaels Design Pinterest: Pinterest e-mail: Laura@Lauramichaelsdesign.com Find Luann on Instagram Welcome to today's episode! We know that you're really going to love it! We have Laura Michaels with us today and she is an experienced and insightful designer who knows how to tell it like it is. On the show, we have a very straightforward conversation with her about talking budget with clients. Laura is very confident in her process and in the service she offers, and she really knows how to hold her ground in these conversations. Listen in today, become inspired, and learn from Laura's expertise, and her really confident way of dealing with clients.

Laura Michaels Design is a full-service design firm specializing in residential and commercial interiors out of Greenwich CT. Having started her career as a fashion designer, Laura Michaels is no stranger to developing complete collections filled with layers of textures, patterns, and colors. Laura thrives on the challenge of finding the perfect combination of textiles and other materials, then integrating them in unique and unexpected ways. Laura spends much of her time sourcing fabric, carpet, lighting and more...from all over the world and prides herself on her thorough knowledge of the market. Laura is also proud of her ability to source the "right" item at the ''right'' price. If cost, size or availability become an issue, her design skills allow her to create the perfect piece in one of her many custom factories.  Her extensive knowledge of the market makes the design process quick and easy, but never routine. Her artistic vision transforms the space into warm and inviting interiors and it is Laura’s goal to provide a warm, inviting environment that is enjoyed by her homeowners and will last the test of time. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Developing the skill set to really understand your ideal client.
  • Some red flags to look out for with a client.
  • The kind of client that Laura works with.
  • Looking at a potential client's expectations before their budget.
  • There are millions of different supplier websites for all budgets.
  • Laura's way of dealing with clients who are not clear about their budget.
  • Managing your client's expectations.
  • Laura loves the challenge of fulfilling a client's expectations on a limited budget.
  • Things that people don't understand about hiring an interior designer.
  • Hiring a designer can really be price effective.
  • Establishing the ground rules around the budget upfront.
  • Laura's way of obtaining art for her clients.
  • Having the budget conversation with clients.
  • Referrals are really important.
  • You need to be confident and know your value to avoid being taken advantage of.

Links:

Website: Laura Michaels Design

Instagram: The Laura Michaels Design

Pinterest: Pinterest

e-mail: Laura@Lauramichaelsdesign.com

Find Luann on Instagram

]]> 3250 no 371: Power Talk Friday: Jason Berkowitz: Optimize the SEO of Your Interior Design Business Website http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/371-power-talk-friday-jason-berkowitz-optimize-the-seo-of-your-interior-design-business-website Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Everything is happening online these days, so we are really very happy to introduce you to Jason Berkowitz, of Break The Web Inc., a company that specializes in digital marketing and PR for businesses. Jason's business is an inbound marketing agency and their goal is to generate traffic which could ultimately turn into leads, sales, and customers. On the show today, Jason talks about the services that his company provides, that may be of interest to interior designers. He also explains what you, as interior designers, need to have in place, in order to come to the table. Listen in to hear what Jason has to say about digital marketing and public relations. Jason started out as a business owner at the age of nineteen. He quickly came to recognize the importance of marketing and brand security. And he also realized that he had to take matters into his own hands because the available information was all so contradictory. Jason's digital journey started in 2010 and his mission that year was to learn the ins-and-outs of digital marketing and more specifically, of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Through extensive networking, he had the opportunity to surround himself with some of the greatest and brightest minds in the industry. So he began utilizing and designing frameworks that led to a successful search-engine presence, spending hours analyzing algorithms and reading patent documents in an attempt to understand metrics for online visibility. Jason launched his first SEO agency out of New York City in mid-2010. They launched SEO campaigns for more than 300 businesses, secured over 50 000 Page 1 rankings and worked with some of the largest brands in the world. Then, in 2016, they launched their parent company, Break The Web, Inc., with a focus on Digital Marketing services and business acquisitions. Since then, they have acquired 2 successful digital marketing agencies out of San Diego, California, and New York City. Listen in to find out more. Show Highlights: Jason explains what his company does. The value in targeting your local area for marketing your business. Where and how digital marketing and PR is taking place. Jason's approach to digital marketing. Paid advertising campaigns can be a little budget heavy. Spending money on a digital marketing campaign pays off. Teaching in-house teams to make the whole marketing process seamless. How Jason structures his pricing. A typical management fee that Jason charges for an ads campaign. The SEO myths that Jason thinks really ought to be busted. Using click-bait with the best intent. Working with SEO really effectively. Creating search tags for Youtube videos. Google algorithms have become very smart- they can understand what's semantically relevant and what's not. Keeping things natural within an SEO campaign. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Andrew Joseph #39 Links: Websites - Break The Web  SEO Services New York  Jason Berkowitz LinkedIn: Jason Berkowitz SEO Facebook: Jason Berkowitz NYC  Twitter: J Berkowitz SEO YouTube: Jason Berkowitz SEO Fri, 26 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Everything is happening online these days, so we are really very happy to introduce you to Jason Berkowitz, of Break The Web Inc., a company that specializes in digital marketing and PR for businesses. Jason's... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Everything is happening online these days, so we are really very happy to introduce you to Jason Berkowitz, of Break The Web Inc., a company that specializes in digital marketing and PR for businesses. Jason's business is an inbound marketing agency and their goal is to generate traffic which could ultimately turn into leads, sales, and customers. On the show today, Jason talks about the services that his company provides, that may be of interest to interior designers. He also explains what you, as interior designers, need to have in place, in order to come to the table. Listen in to hear what Jason has to say about digital marketing and public relations. Jason started out as a business owner at the age of nineteen. He quickly came to recognize the importance of marketing and brand security. And he also realized that he had to take matters into his own hands because the available information was all so contradictory. Jason's digital journey started in 2010 and his mission that year was to learn the ins-and-outs of digital marketing and more specifically, of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Through extensive networking, he had the opportunity to surround himself with some of the greatest and brightest minds in the industry. So he began utilizing and designing frameworks that led to a successful search-engine presence, spending hours analyzing algorithms and reading patent documents in an attempt to understand metrics for online visibility. Jason launched his first SEO agency out of New York City in mid-2010. They launched SEO campaigns for more than 300 businesses, secured over 50 000 Page 1 rankings and worked with some of the largest brands in the world. Then, in 2016, they launched their parent company, Break The Web, Inc., with a focus on Digital Marketing services and business acquisitions. Since then, they have acquired 2 successful digital marketing agencies out of San Diego, California, and New York City. Listen in to find out more. Show Highlights: Jason explains what his company does. The value in targeting your local area for marketing your business. Where and how digital marketing and PR is taking place. Jason's approach to digital marketing. Paid advertising campaigns can be a little budget heavy. Spending money on a digital marketing campaign pays off. Teaching in-house teams to make the whole marketing process seamless. How Jason structures his pricing. A typical management fee that Jason charges for an ads campaign. The SEO myths that Jason thinks really ought to be busted. Using click-bait with the best intent. Working with SEO really effectively. Creating search tags for Youtube videos. Google algorithms have become very smart- they can understand what's semantically relevant and what's not. Keeping things natural within an SEO campaign. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Andrew Joseph #39 Links: Websites - Break The Web  SEO Services New York  Jason Berkowitz LinkedIn: Jason Berkowitz SEO Facebook: Jason Berkowitz NYC  Twitter: J Berkowitz SEO YouTube: Jason Berkowitz SEO Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Everything is happening online these days, so we are really very happy to introduce you to Jason Berkowitz, of Break The Web Inc., a company that specializes in digital marketing and PR for businesses. Jason's business is an inbound marketing agency and their goal is to generate traffic which could ultimately turn into leads, sales, and customers. On the show today, Jason talks about the services that his company provides, that may be of interest to interior designers. He also explains what you, as interior designers, need to have in place, in order to come to the table. Listen in to hear what Jason has to say about digital marketing and public relations.

Jason started out as a business owner at the age of nineteen. He quickly came to recognize the importance of marketing and brand security. And he also realized that he had to take matters into his own hands because the available information was all so contradictory.

Jason's digital journey started in 2010 and his mission that year was to learn the ins-and-outs of digital marketing and more specifically, of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Through extensive networking, he had the opportunity to surround himself with some of the greatest and brightest minds in the industry. So he began utilizing and designing frameworks that led to a successful search-engine presence, spending hours analyzing algorithms and reading patent documents in an attempt to understand metrics for online visibility.

Jason launched his first SEO agency out of New York City in mid-2010. They launched SEO campaigns for more than 300 businesses, secured over 50 000 Page 1 rankings and worked with some of the largest brands in the world. Then, in 2016, they launched their parent company, Break The Web, Inc., with a focus on Digital Marketing services and business acquisitions. Since then, they have acquired 2 successful digital marketing agencies out of San Diego, California, and New York City. Listen in to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • Jason explains what his company does.
  • The value in targeting your local area for marketing your business.
  • Where and how digital marketing and PR is taking place.
  • Jason's approach to digital marketing.
  • Paid advertising campaigns can be a little budget heavy.
  • Spending money on a digital marketing campaign pays off.
  • Teaching in-house teams to make the whole marketing process seamless.
  • How Jason structures his pricing.
  • A typical management fee that Jason charges for an ads campaign.
  • The SEO myths that Jason thinks really ought to be busted.
  • Using click-bait with the best intent.
  • Working with SEO really effectively.
  • Creating search tags for Youtube videos.
  • Google algorithms have become very smart- they can understand what's semantically relevant and what's not.
  • Keeping things natural within an SEO campaign.

Previous episodes mentioned in this show:

Andrew Joseph #39

Links:

Websites -

Break The Web 

SEO Services New York 

Jason Berkowitz

LinkedIn: Jason Berkowitz SEO

Facebook: Jason Berkowitz NYC 

Twitter: J Berkowitz SEO

YouTube: Jason Berkowitz SEO

]]> 2891 no 370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/370-kesha-franklin-a-different-path-to-a-career-in-interior-design Welcome! Today's show was recorded live from the High Point Market on Friday, October 12th, 2018, as part of the Designer Viewpoint Series. We are very happy to introduce you to Kesha Franklin today, the principal of Halden Interiors, based in Greenbrook, New Jersey. Kesha has a background in the fashion world. And as a designer, she started out on a path that initially appeared to be destined for failure, which really rocked her world, but then things took an interesting turn for her. Listen in today as Kesha candidly shares her story, offers valuable insights, discusses the growth of her firm and explains her really intentional way of framing her conversations with potential clients. Kesha's intuitive sense of style, creativity, and harmony goes back to her formative years, where luxurious interiors and fine men's wear captivated her creativity, through her father's vast collection of Architectural Digest and the renowned GQ Magazine. Kesha continued expressing the artist within her through various creative means, but only after an encounter with a New York City architect, who recognized her eye for interior design and complimented her on it, did she take the leap and start The Beautiful Experience, a boutique design firm specializing in residential and special events design and planning, in 2006. Kesha spent years immersed in the exclusive world of couture fashion as a backstage production manager and wardrobe stylist for the iconic Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Surrounded by the work of well-known designers such as Vera Wang, Jason Wu, Michael Kors, Donna Karen, and Lanvin…Kesha sharpened her attention to detail, distinct eye for exquisite styling and sensibility to craftsmanship. The spaces Kesha reinvents today are impeccable. However, her striking aesthetic as an interior designer is not only shaped by her ability to curate color palettes, balanced textures, and distinct furnishings but is also influenced by her ability to understand and connect with people. Every single design project begins with a heart-to-heart. Listen in today to hear what Kesha has to share about how she supplies her clients with a full experience, from the ground up, that goes way beyond just beautiful things. Show highlights: Kesha shares the great story of how she started out with design in 2003. She began with very small projects. Moving from doing jobs for free to starting a business and attracting clients from the luxury market. Kesha learned a lot- the hard way. She had to learn to understand her true worth. Reading books really helped Kesha to understand the processes and the business side of the world of interior design. When things started to pick up in 2011, Kesha realized she really needed to figure out what her niche was. Kesha's process of rebranding to become Holden Interiors took three years. In 2013 Kesha was really fortunate to be a part of the Goldman Sachs 10 000 Small Businesses Program. And that really set her rebranding in motion! It really is okay to charge a higher price that truly reflects the level of service that you're giving. Not all consumers really understand interior design. Kesha gets excited about the kind of job that makes her nervous. Kesha explains the rates she charges her clients. Some things that need to be highlighted in the service agreement with a client. Kesha's approach to clients about her contract. Kesha explains her weekly project update. Teaching her clients to trust the process. Be careful of becoming a 'client pleaser'. Time management is still a challenge. Presentation is everything, so it's very important to invest in really good, high-quality pictures. Kesha's work will continue to change as time goes on. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Adam Urbanski #192 and #280 Links: Kesha's website: Halden Interiors Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today's show was recorded live from the High Point Market on Friday, October 12th, 2018, as part of the Designer Viewpoint Series. We are very happy to introduce you to Kesha Franklin today, the principal of Halden Interiors, based in... Welcome! Today's show was recorded live from the High Point Market on Friday, October 12th, 2018, as part of the Designer Viewpoint Series. We are very happy to introduce you to Kesha Franklin today, the principal of Halden Interiors, based in Greenbrook, New Jersey. Kesha has a background in the fashion world. And as a designer, she started out on a path that initially appeared to be destined for failure, which really rocked her world, but then things took an interesting turn for her. Listen in today as Kesha candidly shares her story, offers valuable insights, discusses the growth of her firm and explains her really intentional way of framing her conversations with potential clients. Kesha's intuitive sense of style, creativity, and harmony goes back to her formative years, where luxurious interiors and fine men's wear captivated her creativity, through her father's vast collection of Architectural Digest and the renowned GQ Magazine. Kesha continued expressing the artist within her through various creative means, but only after an encounter with a New York City architect, who recognized her eye for interior design and complimented her on it, did she take the leap and start The Beautiful Experience, a boutique design firm specializing in residential and special events design and planning, in 2006. Kesha spent years immersed in the exclusive world of couture fashion as a backstage production manager and wardrobe stylist for the iconic Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Surrounded by the work of well-known designers such as Vera Wang, Jason Wu, Michael Kors, Donna Karen, and Lanvin…Kesha sharpened her attention to detail, distinct eye for exquisite styling and sensibility to craftsmanship. The spaces Kesha reinvents today are impeccable. However, her striking aesthetic as an interior designer is not only shaped by her ability to curate color palettes, balanced textures, and distinct furnishings but is also influenced by her ability to understand and connect with people. Every single design project begins with a heart-to-heart. Listen in today to hear what Kesha has to share about how she supplies her clients with a full experience, from the ground up, that goes way beyond just beautiful things. Show highlights: Kesha shares the great story of how she started out with design in 2003. She began with very small projects. Moving from doing jobs for free to starting a business and attracting clients from the luxury market. Kesha learned a lot- the hard way. She had to learn to understand her true worth. Reading books really helped Kesha to understand the processes and the business side of the world of interior design. When things started to pick up in 2011, Kesha realized she really needed to figure out what her niche was. Kesha's process of rebranding to become Holden Interiors took three years. In 2013 Kesha was really fortunate to be a part of the Goldman Sachs 10 000 Small Businesses Program. And that really set her rebranding in motion! It really is okay to charge a higher price that truly reflects the level of service that you're giving. Not all consumers really understand interior design. Kesha gets excited about the kind of job that makes her nervous. Kesha explains the rates she charges her clients. Some things that need to be highlighted in the service agreement with a client. Kesha's approach to clients about her contract. Kesha explains her weekly project update. Teaching her clients to trust the process. Be careful of becoming a 'client pleaser'. Time management is still a challenge. Presentation is everything, so it's very important to invest in really good, high-quality pictures. Kesha's work will continue to change as time goes on. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Adam Urbanski #192 and #280 Links: Kesha's website: Halden Interiors Welcome! Today's show was recorded live from the High Point Market on Friday, October 12th, 2018, as part of the Designer Viewpoint Series. We are very happy to introduce you to Kesha Franklin today, the principal of Halden Interiors, based in Greenbrook, New Jersey. Kesha has a background in the fashion world. And as a designer, she started out on a path that initially appeared to be destined for failure, which really rocked her world, but then things took an interesting turn for her. Listen in today as Kesha candidly shares her story, offers valuable insights, discusses the growth of her firm and explains her really intentional way of framing her conversations with potential clients.

Kesha's intuitive sense of style, creativity, and harmony goes back to her formative years, where luxurious interiors and fine men's wear captivated her creativity, through her father's vast collection of Architectural Digest and the renowned GQ Magazine. Kesha continued expressing the artist within her through various creative means, but only after an encounter with a New York City architect, who recognized her eye for interior design and complimented her on it, did she take the leap and start The Beautiful Experience, a boutique design firm specializing in residential and special events design and planning, in 2006.

Kesha spent years immersed in the exclusive world of couture fashion as a backstage production manager and wardrobe stylist for the iconic Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Surrounded by the work of well-known designers such as Vera Wang, Jason Wu, Michael Kors, Donna Karen, and Lanvin…Kesha sharpened her attention to detail, distinct eye for exquisite styling and sensibility to craftsmanship.

The spaces Kesha reinvents today are impeccable. However, her striking aesthetic as an interior designer is not only shaped by her ability to curate color palettes, balanced textures, and distinct furnishings but is also influenced by her ability to understand and connect with people. Every single design project begins with a heart-to-heart. Listen in today to hear what Kesha has to share about how she supplies her clients with a full experience, from the ground up, that goes way beyond just beautiful things.

Show highlights:

  • Kesha shares the great story of how she started out with design in 2003.
  • She began with very small projects.
  • Moving from doing jobs for free to starting a business and attracting clients from the luxury market.
  • Kesha learned a lot- the hard way.
  • She had to learn to understand her true worth.
  • Reading books really helped Kesha to understand the processes and the business side of the world of interior design.
  • When things started to pick up in 2011, Kesha realized she really needed to figure out what her niche was.
  • Kesha's process of rebranding to become Holden Interiors took three years.
  • In 2013 Kesha was really fortunate to be a part of the Goldman Sachs 10 000 Small Businesses Program. And that really set her rebranding in motion!
  • It really is okay to charge a higher price that truly reflects the level of service that you're giving.
  • Not all consumers really understand interior design.
  • Kesha gets excited about the kind of job that makes her nervous.
  • Kesha explains the rates she charges her clients.
  • Some things that need to be highlighted in the service agreement with a client.
  • Kesha's approach to clients about her contract.
  • Kesha explains her weekly project update.
  • Teaching her clients to trust the process.
  • Be careful of becoming a 'client pleaser'.
  • Time management is still a challenge.
  • Presentation is everything, so it's very important to invest in really good, high-quality pictures.
  • Kesha's work will continue to change as time goes on.

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Adam Urbanski #192 and #280

Links:

Kesha's website: Halden Interiors

]]> 4053 no 369: Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/369-power-talk-friday-stephen-karlisch-professional-tips-for-getting-more-out-of-your-interior-design-photoshoots Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we are really very happy to introduce you to photographer Stephen Karlish, from Dallas, Texas. Stephen began his career pre-internet, so he has seen the rise of social media and online sharing either make or break the careers of numerous designers. He has learned that the key to any creative environment is collaboration. We live in an image-based society today and designers really need to create a strong online presence. So they need to collaborate with experienced photographers to get the kind images that will be sure to drive traffic their way. Listen in today to find out what Stephen has to say about how a great photographer can really help you, as a designer, to build your brand identity and your online presence. Stephen started out in the world of photography assisting commercial photographers in the late 90's. In the early 2000's he started photographing interiors for both local and national publications like Southern Accents, Veranda, Elle Decor, and AD, mainly focusing on documenting local Texas designers' work for their portfolios and ads. Based on his experience, Stephen really wants to help designers to take the photography aspect of their projects seriously. Listen in today to get some really helpful advice and tips from Stephen. Show highlights: The really awesome business partnership that Stephen has with his wife. Pulp Design Studios really inspires Stephen! It really takes a lot of practice to get your personality to really come through on a video. What it takes to create a really great a photo shoot on location. Working seamlessly as a team for incredible outcomes. Really great shots can be used for years. As a young designer, it's really worth investing in your brand imagery right now. Doing it right! Some tips for getting the best shots on a regular budget. Working with stylists and floral designers. The importance of doing pre-shoot scout shots. The benefits of working with a stylist for your photos. How to find the right stylist to work with. Designing projects to completion. Creating portfolio shots on a studio wall. Some tricks that a photographer can do to create incredible shots. The best business advice that Stephen has ever been given. Links: Stephen's Website - Stephen Karlisch Studio Website: Karlisch Studio Instagram: @stephen_karlisch_photo Facebook: Karlisch Studio Twitter: Stephen Karlisch Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310 Charlotte Safavi #138 Fri, 19 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we are really very happy to introduce you to photographer Stephen Karlish, from Dallas, Texas. Stephen began his career pre-internet, so he has seen the rise of social media and online sharing either make or break... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we are really very happy to introduce you to photographer Stephen Karlish, from Dallas, Texas. Stephen began his career pre-internet, so he has seen the rise of social media and online sharing either make or break the careers of numerous designers. He has learned that the key to any creative environment is collaboration. We live in an image-based society today and designers really need to create a strong online presence. So they need to collaborate with experienced photographers to get the kind images that will be sure to drive traffic their way. Listen in today to find out what Stephen has to say about how a great photographer can really help you, as a designer, to build your brand identity and your online presence. Stephen started out in the world of photography assisting commercial photographers in the late 90's. In the early 2000's he started photographing interiors for both local and national publications like Southern Accents, Veranda, Elle Decor, and AD, mainly focusing on documenting local Texas designers' work for their portfolios and ads. Based on his experience, Stephen really wants to help designers to take the photography aspect of their projects seriously. Listen in today to get some really helpful advice and tips from Stephen. Show highlights: The really awesome business partnership that Stephen has with his wife. Pulp Design Studios really inspires Stephen! It really takes a lot of practice to get your personality to really come through on a video. What it takes to create a really great a photo shoot on location. Working seamlessly as a team for incredible outcomes. Really great shots can be used for years. As a young designer, it's really worth investing in your brand imagery right now. Doing it right! Some tips for getting the best shots on a regular budget. Working with stylists and floral designers. The importance of doing pre-shoot scout shots. The benefits of working with a stylist for your photos. How to find the right stylist to work with. Designing projects to completion. Creating portfolio shots on a studio wall. Some tricks that a photographer can do to create incredible shots. The best business advice that Stephen has ever been given. Links: Stephen's Website - Stephen Karlisch Studio Website: Karlisch Studio Instagram: @stephen_karlisch_photo Facebook: Karlisch Studio Twitter: Stephen Karlisch Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310 Charlotte Safavi #138 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we are really very happy to introduce you to photographer Stephen Karlish, from Dallas, Texas. Stephen began his career pre-internet, so he has seen the rise of social media and online sharing either make or break the careers of numerous designers. He has learned that the key to any creative environment is collaboration. We live in an image-based society today and designers really need to create a strong online presence. So they need to collaborate with experienced photographers to get the kind images that will be sure to drive traffic their way. Listen in today to find out what Stephen has to say about how a great photographer can really help you, as a designer, to build your brand identity and your online presence.

Stephen started out in the world of photography assisting commercial photographers in the late 90's. In the early 2000's he started photographing interiors for both local and national publications like Southern Accents, Veranda, Elle Decor, and AD, mainly focusing on documenting local Texas designers' work for their portfolios and ads. Based on his experience, Stephen really wants to help designers to take the photography aspect of their projects seriously. Listen in today to get some really helpful advice and tips from Stephen.

Show highlights:

  • The really awesome business partnership that Stephen has with his wife.
  • Pulp Design Studios really inspires Stephen!
  • It really takes a lot of practice to get your personality to really come through on a video.
  • What it takes to create a really great a photo shoot on location.
  • Working seamlessly as a team for incredible outcomes.
  • Really great shots can be used for years.
  • As a young designer, it's really worth investing in your brand imagery right now.
  • Doing it right!
  • Some tips for getting the best shots on a regular budget.
  • Working with stylists and floral designers.
  • The importance of doing pre-shoot scout shots.
  • The benefits of working with a stylist for your photos.
  • How to find the right stylist to work with.
  • Designing projects to completion.
  • Creating portfolio shots on a studio wall.
  • Some tricks that a photographer can do to create incredible shots.
  • The best business advice that Stephen has ever been given.

Links:

Stephen's Website - Stephen Karlisch

Studio Website: Karlisch Studio

Instagram: @stephen_karlisch_photo

Facebook: Karlisch Studio

Twitter: Stephen Karlisch

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Pulp Design Studios #176 and #310

Charlotte Safavi #138

]]> 3468 no 368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/368-jessica-duce-vrbo-interior-design Welcome to the show! Today we are excited to introduce you to Jessica Duce, the principal of J Duce Design in Colorado. With a lot of hard work, and a little good luck, Jessica discovered her ideal client and so today she specializes in VRBO and Air BnB Design. On the show today, Jessica tells the story of how she saw an opportunity to follow a completely new path in her business and jumped right in. Listen in today to learn about the joys and the challenges of designing for VRBO properties. J Duce Design has won multiple best of Houzz awards and has been featured in Parker Lifestyle Magazine, Highlands Ranch Lifestyle Magazine, and Omaha Family Magazine.  Jessica was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her work for Habitat for Humanity. In 2018, J Duce Design is launching the Denver chapter of Savvy Giving by Design launched by Susan Wintersteen of Savvy Design. The goal of the non-profit chapter is to help families in crisis improve their current living environment for health and wellbeing at no charge to them. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The story of what has happened to Jessica's company in the last three years. How Jessica launched into the world of designing for VRBO properties. The scheduling challenges that come with VRBO designing. Jessica's awesome team. The one home that Jessica worked on has led to her working on five other homes in the last three years. Jessica discusses her connection in property management. Times are changing with vacation homes and Air BnB. Being creative when spending money to create the 'wow' factor. Jessica's goals when meeting with the housekeeping staff. Dealing with the 'flips'. Some important things that Jessica has learned about designing for VRBO homes. Some things that need to be considered when designing for the VRBO market. The story of the really successful Captain Arnold's house. Designing to appeal to the holiday market. Experimenting with the best ways to invest money in VRBO properties. Creating a photo spot in every house. Learning lots of new ideas from the BDNY. The biggest lesson that Jessica has learned in the last three years. Links: JDuce Design Instagram: JDuce Design Facebook: JDuce Design Tue, 16 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today we are excited to introduce you to Jessica Duce, the principal of J Duce Design in Colorado. With a lot of hard work, and a little good luck, Jessica discovered her ideal client and so today she specializes in VRBO and Air... Welcome to the show! Today we are excited to introduce you to Jessica Duce, the principal of J Duce Design in Colorado. With a lot of hard work, and a little good luck, Jessica discovered her ideal client and so today she specializes in VRBO and Air BnB Design. On the show today, Jessica tells the story of how she saw an opportunity to follow a completely new path in her business and jumped right in. Listen in today to learn about the joys and the challenges of designing for VRBO properties. J Duce Design has won multiple best of Houzz awards and has been featured in Parker Lifestyle Magazine, Highlands Ranch Lifestyle Magazine, and Omaha Family Magazine.  Jessica was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her work for Habitat for Humanity. In 2018, J Duce Design is launching the Denver chapter of Savvy Giving by Design launched by Susan Wintersteen of Savvy Design. The goal of the non-profit chapter is to help families in crisis improve their current living environment for health and wellbeing at no charge to them. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The story of what has happened to Jessica's company in the last three years. How Jessica launched into the world of designing for VRBO properties. The scheduling challenges that come with VRBO designing. Jessica's awesome team. The one home that Jessica worked on has led to her working on five other homes in the last three years. Jessica discusses her connection in property management. Times are changing with vacation homes and Air BnB. Being creative when spending money to create the 'wow' factor. Jessica's goals when meeting with the housekeeping staff. Dealing with the 'flips'. Some important things that Jessica has learned about designing for VRBO homes. Some things that need to be considered when designing for the VRBO market. The story of the really successful Captain Arnold's house. Designing to appeal to the holiday market. Experimenting with the best ways to invest money in VRBO properties. Creating a photo spot in every house. Learning lots of new ideas from the BDNY. The biggest lesson that Jessica has learned in the last three years. Links: JDuce Design Instagram: JDuce Design Facebook: JDuce Design Welcome to the show! Today we are excited to introduce you to Jessica Duce, the principal of J Duce Design in Colorado. With a lot of hard work, and a little good luck, Jessica discovered her ideal client and so today she specializes in VRBO and Air BnB Design. On the show today, Jessica tells the story of how she saw an opportunity to follow a completely new path in her business and jumped right in. Listen in today to learn about the joys and the challenges of designing for VRBO properties.

J Duce Design has won multiple best of Houzz awards and has been featured in Parker Lifestyle Magazine, Highlands Ranch Lifestyle Magazine, and Omaha Family Magazine.  Jessica was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her work for Habitat for Humanity. In 2018, J Duce Design is launching the Denver chapter of Savvy Giving by Design launched by Susan Wintersteen of Savvy Design. The goal of the non-profit chapter is to help families in crisis improve their current living environment for health and wellbeing at no charge to them. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • The story of what has happened to Jessica's company in the last three years.
  • How Jessica launched into the world of designing for VRBO properties.
  • The scheduling challenges that come with VRBO designing.
  • Jessica's awesome team.
  • The one home that Jessica worked on has led to her working on five other homes in the last three years.
  • Jessica discusses her connection in property management.
  • Times are changing with vacation homes and Air BnB.
  • Being creative when spending money to create the 'wow' factor.
  • Jessica's goals when meeting with the housekeeping staff.
  • Dealing with the 'flips'.
  • Some important things that Jessica has learned about designing for VRBO homes.
  • Some things that need to be considered when designing for the VRBO market.
  • The story of the really successful Captain Arnold's house.
  • Designing to appeal to the holiday market.
  • Experimenting with the best ways to invest money in VRBO properties.
  • Creating a photo spot in every house.
  • Learning lots of new ideas from the BDNY.
  • The biggest lesson that Jessica has learned in the last three years.

Links:

JDuce Design

Instagram: JDuce Design

Facebook: JDuce Design

]]> 4066 no 367: Power Talk Friday: Article.com : A Resource For Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/367-power-talk-friday-articlecom-a-resource-for-your-interior-design-business Welcome! It's Power Talk Friday and we have a special show today, sponsored by Article.com! We are very happy to have Jillian Cross,  their trade program manager, joining us on the show. The passionate team at Article.com has a very strong understanding of the world of interior design and their trade program is run entirely by committed people from the design industry. Today Jill explains what it is about Article.com that really makes interior designers want to work with them. Listen in to find out more. Jillian has had an amazing ride in the industry! She was born and raised in a construction and development family, so it's in her blood. She has a degree in project management as well as a background in interior design. Jill has been with Article for about one-and-a-half-years and she came to them with nine years of industry experience behind her. Prior to joining Article, she worked at several different firms in the industry, and also with some big-box retailers- helping them to build out their trade and their pro programs. She spent a number of years doing millwork design and also working in her family's business, where she got to experience residential and multi-unit design. Listen in to find out what Jillian has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: The people on the team at Article have a strong understanding of the world of interior design. The importance of really understanding who you're talking to. Article really understands the pain points of interior designers. The team at Article takes a strong stand when something goes wrong and they get onto resolving it as quickly and effectively as possible. The benefits of having a small team. Following up with genuine care and concern. Relationship building. Striving to create a personal service for online trade partners. The positives and negatives to working in the online space. The discount structure at Article.com. The great value that Article.com is offering their customers. com is very competitive in its market. Understanding transparency. Article will send you swatches of fabric and samples with no shipping costs. Jill walks you through Article's fantastic return/exchange policy. Article will deliver anywhere in America. Links: Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Trade Article: Article Linkedin Article Houzz: Article Modern Instagram: Article Facebook: Article Fri, 12 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! It's Power Talk Friday and we have a special show today, sponsored by Article.com! We are very happy to have Jillian Cross,  their trade program manager, joining us on the show. The passionate team at Article.com has a very strong... Welcome! It's Power Talk Friday and we have a special show today, sponsored by Article.com! We are very happy to have Jillian Cross,  their trade program manager, joining us on the show. The passionate team at Article.com has a very strong understanding of the world of interior design and their trade program is run entirely by committed people from the design industry. Today Jill explains what it is about Article.com that really makes interior designers want to work with them. Listen in to find out more. Jillian has had an amazing ride in the industry! She was born and raised in a construction and development family, so it's in her blood. She has a degree in project management as well as a background in interior design. Jill has been with Article for about one-and-a-half-years and she came to them with nine years of industry experience behind her. Prior to joining Article, she worked at several different firms in the industry, and also with some big-box retailers- helping them to build out their trade and their pro programs. She spent a number of years doing millwork design and also working in her family's business, where she got to experience residential and multi-unit design. Listen in to find out what Jillian has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: The people on the team at Article have a strong understanding of the world of interior design. The importance of really understanding who you're talking to. Article really understands the pain points of interior designers. The team at Article takes a strong stand when something goes wrong and they get onto resolving it as quickly and effectively as possible. The benefits of having a small team. Following up with genuine care and concern. Relationship building. Striving to create a personal service for online trade partners. The positives and negatives to working in the online space. The discount structure at Article.com. The great value that Article.com is offering their customers. com is very competitive in its market. Understanding transparency. Article will send you swatches of fabric and samples with no shipping costs. Jill walks you through Article's fantastic return/exchange policy. Article will deliver anywhere in America. Links: Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Trade Article: Article Linkedin Article Houzz: Article Modern Instagram: Article Facebook: Article Welcome! It's Power Talk Friday and we have a special show today, sponsored by Article.com! We are very happy to have Jillian Cross,  their trade program manager, joining us on the show. The passionate team at Article.com has a very strong understanding of the world of interior design and their trade program is run entirely by committed people from the design industry. Today Jill explains what it is about Article.com that really makes interior designers want to work with them. Listen in to find out more.

Jillian has had an amazing ride in the industry! She was born and raised in a construction and development family, so it's in her blood. She has a degree in project management as well as a background in interior design. Jill has been with Article for about one-and-a-half-years and she came to them with nine years of industry experience behind her. Prior to joining Article, she worked at several different firms in the industry, and also with some big-box retailers- helping them to build out their trade and their pro programs. She spent a number of years doing millwork design and also working in her family's business, where she got to experience residential and multi-unit design. Listen in to find out what Jillian has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • The people on the team at Article have a strong understanding of the world of interior design.
  • The importance of really understanding who you're talking to.
  • Article really understands the pain points of interior designers.
  • The team at Article takes a strong stand when something goes wrong and they get onto resolving it as quickly and effectively as possible.
  • The benefits of having a small team.
  • Following up with genuine care and concern.
  • Relationship building.
  • Striving to create a personal service for online trade partners.
  • The positives and negatives to working in the online space.
  • The discount structure at Article.com.
  • The great value that Article.com is offering their customers.
  • com is very competitive in its market.
  • Understanding transparency.
  • Article will send you swatches of fabric and samples with no shipping costs.
  • Jill walks you through Article's fantastic return/exchange policy.
  • Article will deliver anywhere in America.

Links:

Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Trade

Article: Article

Linkedin Article

Houzz: Article Modern

Instagram: Article

Facebook: Article

]]> 2924 no 366: Nicole White: Interior Designer Leveraging Her Contracting Skills http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/366-nicole-white-interior-designer-leveraging-her-contracting-skills Welcome to today's episode! We have a really smart lady joining us on the show today! She is Nicole White, the president, and principal designer at the award-winning design firm, Nichole White Designs Interiors, based in Sunrise, Florida. On the show today we talk to Nicole about how she came to learn her particular skill set in the renovation process, and what her intentions are with that going forward. We talk to her about her experience as a journalist, in her previous career, and how she leverages that to earn press for her projects. And we also discuss confidence, how it develops mostly through the mistakes we make over time in our businesses, and how very important that is, when being an entrepreneur. Listen in to find out more. Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has had her design work featured in various magazines including, Better Homes and Gardens, Ocean Drive, Modern Luxury Interiors; Huffington Post, HGTV and Domino online magazines. She’s twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and is a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture. An award-winning writer, Nicole writes about the behind the scenes process of her projects on her popular blog LiveLaughDecorate. Nicole, lover of red wine and travel, is also mom to a busy 6-year-old, Xavier - a budding artist and self-proclaimed VP of NWD Interiors. Listen in to hear what Nicole has to share on today's show. Show highlights: Nicole talks her decision to direct her business towards working with the renovation process. Nicole has learned to get her hands dirty- working hands-on with the renovation process. Nicole really enjoys the whole process of renovation. What makes Nicole so successful with what she does. Nicole is getting ready to do her GC license in the next year or so. What obtaining a GC license involves. Nicole talks about her game-changing questionnaire, what it deals with, and how it came about. The questionnaire has literally transformed Nicole's business. Working realistically with a budget with clients. Nicole has the confidence to know that clients will be better off working with her. Fifteen years in, Nicole still clearly remembers not knowing how she was going to pay her bills. Standing in your experience and fully understanding what your needs are. Nicole has made some deliberate changes in her life since having her son. Nicole makes the amount of time that she has available very clear to her clients. It can take some time to develop the confidence, as a new designer, to charge a consultation fee. As a former journalist, Nicole really understands publications and how they work- so she knows how to build and grow press. Start building press by pitching the smaller publications first. Nicole has learned to build relationships- they really matter! It's really important to stay in touch- you cannot treat your clients and relationships as a one-night-stand. You have to enter the contests to win the awards. Go after companies and brands that fit your strengths. The goals that Nicole is stretching herself towards right now. Links: Nicole's website: NWD Interiors Nicole's blog: Live Laugh Decorate To sign up for your trade account with Article.Com: Well Designed Article Tue, 09 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have a really smart lady joining us on the show today! She is Nicole White, the president, and principal designer at the award-winning design firm, Nichole White Designs Interiors, based in Sunrise, Florida. On the show... Welcome to today's episode! We have a really smart lady joining us on the show today! She is Nicole White, the president, and principal designer at the award-winning design firm, Nichole White Designs Interiors, based in Sunrise, Florida. On the show today we talk to Nicole about how she came to learn her particular skill set in the renovation process, and what her intentions are with that going forward. We talk to her about her experience as a journalist, in her previous career, and how she leverages that to earn press for her projects. And we also discuss confidence, how it develops mostly through the mistakes we make over time in our businesses, and how very important that is, when being an entrepreneur. Listen in to find out more. Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has had her design work featured in various magazines including, Better Homes and Gardens, Ocean Drive, Modern Luxury Interiors; Huffington Post, HGTV and Domino online magazines. She’s twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and is a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture. An award-winning writer, Nicole writes about the behind the scenes process of her projects on her popular blog LiveLaughDecorate. Nicole, lover of red wine and travel, is also mom to a busy 6-year-old, Xavier - a budding artist and self-proclaimed VP of NWD Interiors. Listen in to hear what Nicole has to share on today's show. Show highlights: Nicole talks her decision to direct her business towards working with the renovation process. Nicole has learned to get her hands dirty- working hands-on with the renovation process. Nicole really enjoys the whole process of renovation. What makes Nicole so successful with what she does. Nicole is getting ready to do her GC license in the next year or so. What obtaining a GC license involves. Nicole talks about her game-changing questionnaire, what it deals with, and how it came about. The questionnaire has literally transformed Nicole's business. Working realistically with a budget with clients. Nicole has the confidence to know that clients will be better off working with her. Fifteen years in, Nicole still clearly remembers not knowing how she was going to pay her bills. Standing in your experience and fully understanding what your needs are. Nicole has made some deliberate changes in her life since having her son. Nicole makes the amount of time that she has available very clear to her clients. It can take some time to develop the confidence, as a new designer, to charge a consultation fee. As a former journalist, Nicole really understands publications and how they work- so she knows how to build and grow press. Start building press by pitching the smaller publications first. Nicole has learned to build relationships- they really matter! It's really important to stay in touch- you cannot treat your clients and relationships as a one-night-stand. You have to enter the contests to win the awards. Go after companies and brands that fit your strengths. The goals that Nicole is stretching herself towards right now. Links: Nicole's website: NWD Interiors Nicole's blog: Live Laugh Decorate To sign up for your trade account with Article.Com: Well Designed Article Welcome to today's episode! We have a really smart lady joining us on the show today! She is Nicole White, the president, and principal designer at the award-winning design firm, Nichole White Designs Interiors, based in Sunrise, Florida. On the show today we talk to Nicole about how she came to learn her particular skill set in the renovation process, and what her intentions are with that going forward. We talk to her about her experience as a journalist, in her previous career, and how she leverages that to earn press for her projects. And we also discuss confidence, how it develops mostly through the mistakes we make over time in our businesses, and how very important that is, when being an entrepreneur. Listen in to find out more.

Nicole, known for her renovation prowess, has had her design work featured in various magazines including, Better Homes and Gardens, Ocean Drive, Modern Luxury Interiors; Huffington Post, HGTV and Domino online magazines. She’s twice been noted as an emerging designer to watch by the Black Interior Designers Network and is a brand ambassador/influencer for The Home Depot, Purple Drywall, and City Furniture. An award-winning writer, Nicole writes about the behind the scenes process of her projects on her popular blog LiveLaughDecorate. Nicole, lover of red wine and travel, is also mom to a busy 6-year-old, Xavier - a budding artist and self-proclaimed VP of NWD Interiors. Listen in to hear what Nicole has to share on today's show.

Show highlights:

  • Nicole talks her decision to direct her business towards working with the renovation process.
  • Nicole has learned to get her hands dirty- working hands-on with the renovation process.
  • Nicole really enjoys the whole process of renovation.
  • What makes Nicole so successful with what she does.
  • Nicole is getting ready to do her GC license in the next year or so.
  • What obtaining a GC license involves.
  • Nicole talks about her game-changing questionnaire, what it deals with, and how it came about.
  • The questionnaire has literally transformed Nicole's business.
  • Working realistically with a budget with clients.
  • Nicole has the confidence to know that clients will be better off working with her.
  • Fifteen years in, Nicole still clearly remembers not knowing how she was going to pay her bills.
  • Standing in your experience and fully understanding what your needs are.
  • Nicole has made some deliberate changes in her life since having her son.
  • Nicole makes the amount of time that she has available very clear to her clients.
  • It can take some time to develop the confidence, as a new designer, to charge a consultation fee.
  • As a former journalist, Nicole really understands publications and how they work- so she knows how to build and grow press.
  • Start building press by pitching the smaller publications first.
  • Nicole has learned to build relationships- they really matter!
  • It's really important to stay in touch- you cannot treat your clients and relationships as a one-night-stand.
  • You have to enter the contests to win the awards.
  • Go after companies and brands that fit your strengths.
  • The goals that Nicole is stretching herself towards right now.

Links:

Nicole's website: NWD Interiors

Nicole's blog: Live Laugh Decorate

To sign up for your trade account with Article.Com: Well Designed Article

]]> 3957 no 365: Power Talk Friday: Monique Holmes: Keys To Sourcing For Your Interior Design Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/365-power-talk-friday-monique-holmes-keys-to-sourcing-for-your-interior-design-projects Send me the Source Like a Pro Video! Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Monique Holmes (Duarte) with us again today and she's bound to inspire you to re-think the way that you approach sourcing for your interior design firm. Monique started Duarte Decor, a global interior design firm, in 2012, after successfully working in the marketing and advertising world for more than ten years. Using her marketing experience, she managed to generate $50 000 in profit in her first year, working part-time while still holding down a full-time job. Monique saw that there was a huge gap in our industry and that design schools don't teach the business side of the industry. So, she came up with her 8 Steps To Profitability Program and launched her own, private coaching firm,  Duarte Consulting, in 2016. Today's show is packed with tons of information and Monique generously shares some of her awesome resources! Listen in to today to learn about Monique's key strategies for sourcing like a pro. Monique Holmes is a Certified Interior Decorator, Business Coach, and an active member of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), International Interior Design Association (IIDA),  Central NJ & Brooklyn, NY Chapter President of the distinguished Interior Design Society (IDS) as well as a Certified member of CID (Certified Interior Decorator Association).   She also holds several degrees, including a career degree in Interior Decorating & AutoCAD Design, a Bachelor’s in International Business with a specialization in Economics & Marketing, and a Master’s Degree in Interactive & Direct Marketing.   Monique Holmes was awarded "Woman of the Year for Interior Decorating for NJ" in 2013 by NAPW, in addition, her design work has been featured online & in print publications including "Your Decorating Resource" and Moxie Woman Magazine. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The first thing to think about, as interior designers, in order to source and sell products like a pro. Monique likes to focus on helping designers to figure out strategies to do things effectively and efficiently. Monique explains her 4 easy steps to sourcing like a pro. The benefits of sourcing through trade-only vendors. The key to shopping with online retailers. The great thing about the Article.com trade program. It's really important to be transparent with your clients. E-design or full-service? Monique has trade programs with all the retail stores that she shops with. The percentage of her discount that Monique shares with her clients. The way that Monique charges clients for her design services. Some things to consider, about sourcing. Doing your research about sourcing ahead of time really helps to prevent any unnecessary stress. Being aware and knowing your product is very important. Always have a price-point scale of the vendors that you deal with. It's important to bear the location of vendors and their rep support in mind when making a purchase. Knowing your product and your customer is a vital ingredient. The importance of building sourcing and selling into the foundation of your business ahead of time. A lot of Monique's coaching is strategy-based. Building your sourcing repertoire list of vendors- it takes time but it's really worth it in the end. Links: Website: www.8STP.com 8STP FB Group Master Class (Launching September 30th, 2018) Instagram: Monique Nicole Holmes Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Monique's 1st appearance on the show: #178   (note she has since married- she was Monique Duarte- she is now Monique Holmes) Deb Barrett #53 Gary Inman #154 Article.com #301 Dina Holland Honey & Fitz #354 Heather McManus #357 Fri, 05 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Monique Holmes (Duarte) with us again today and she's bound to inspire you to re-think the way that you approach sourcing for your interior design firm. Monique started Duarte Decor, a global interior... Send me the Source Like a Pro Video! Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Monique Holmes (Duarte) with us again today and she's bound to inspire you to re-think the way that you approach sourcing for your interior design firm. Monique started Duarte Decor, a global interior design firm, in 2012, after successfully working in the marketing and advertising world for more than ten years. Using her marketing experience, she managed to generate $50 000 in profit in her first year, working part-time while still holding down a full-time job. Monique saw that there was a huge gap in our industry and that design schools don't teach the business side of the industry. So, she came up with her 8 Steps To Profitability Program and launched her own, private coaching firm,  Duarte Consulting, in 2016. Today's show is packed with tons of information and Monique generously shares some of her awesome resources! Listen in to today to learn about Monique's key strategies for sourcing like a pro. Monique Holmes is a Certified Interior Decorator, Business Coach, and an active member of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), International Interior Design Association (IIDA),  Central NJ & Brooklyn, NY Chapter President of the distinguished Interior Design Society (IDS) as well as a Certified member of CID (Certified Interior Decorator Association).   She also holds several degrees, including a career degree in Interior Decorating & AutoCAD Design, a Bachelor’s in International Business with a specialization in Economics & Marketing, and a Master’s Degree in Interactive & Direct Marketing.   Monique Holmes was awarded "Woman of the Year for Interior Decorating for NJ" in 2013 by NAPW, in addition, her design work has been featured online & in print publications including "Your Decorating Resource" and Moxie Woman Magazine. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The first thing to think about, as interior designers, in order to source and sell products like a pro. Monique likes to focus on helping designers to figure out strategies to do things effectively and efficiently. Monique explains her 4 easy steps to sourcing like a pro. The benefits of sourcing through trade-only vendors. The key to shopping with online retailers. The great thing about the Article.com trade program. It's really important to be transparent with your clients. E-design or full-service? Monique has trade programs with all the retail stores that she shops with. The percentage of her discount that Monique shares with her clients. The way that Monique charges clients for her design services. Some things to consider, about sourcing. Doing your research about sourcing ahead of time really helps to prevent any unnecessary stress. Being aware and knowing your product is very important. Always have a price-point scale of the vendors that you deal with. It's important to bear the location of vendors and their rep support in mind when making a purchase. Knowing your product and your customer is a vital ingredient. The importance of building sourcing and selling into the foundation of your business ahead of time. A lot of Monique's coaching is strategy-based. Building your sourcing repertoire list of vendors- it takes time but it's really worth it in the end. Links: Website: www.8STP.com 8STP FB Group Master Class (Launching September 30th, 2018) Instagram: Monique Nicole Holmes Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Monique's 1st appearance on the show: #178   (note she has since married- she was Monique Duarte- she is now Monique Holmes) Deb Barrett #53 Gary Inman #154 Article.com #301 Dina Holland Honey & Fitz #354 Heather McManus #357 Send me the Source Like a Pro Video!

Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Monique Holmes (Duarte) with us again today and she's bound to inspire you to re-think the way that you approach sourcing for your interior design firm. Monique started Duarte Decor, a global interior design firm, in 2012, after successfully working in the marketing and advertising world for more than ten years. Using her marketing experience, she managed to generate $50 000 in profit in her first year, working part-time while still holding down a full-time job. Monique saw that there was a huge gap in our industry and that design schools don't teach the business side of the industry. So, she came up with her 8 Steps To Profitability Program and launched her own, private coaching firm,  Duarte Consulting, in 2016. Today's show is packed with tons of information and Monique generously shares some of her awesome resources! Listen in to today to learn about Monique's key strategies for sourcing like a pro.

Monique Holmes is a Certified Interior Decorator, Business Coach, and an active member of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), International Interior Design Association (IIDA),  Central NJ & Brooklyn, NY Chapter President of the distinguished Interior Design Society (IDS) as well as a Certified member of CID (Certified Interior Decorator Association).   She also holds several degrees, including a career degree in Interior Decorating & AutoCAD Design, a Bachelor’s in International Business with a specialization in Economics & Marketing, and a Master’s Degree in Interactive & Direct Marketing.   Monique Holmes was awarded "Woman of the Year for Interior Decorating for NJ" in 2013 by NAPW, in addition, her design work has been featured online & in print publications including "Your Decorating Resource" and Moxie Woman Magazine. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • The first thing to think about, as interior designers, in order to source and sell products like a pro.
  • Monique likes to focus on helping designers to figure out strategies to do things effectively and efficiently.
  • Monique explains her 4 easy steps to sourcing like a pro.
  • The benefits of sourcing through trade-only vendors.
  • The key to shopping with online retailers.
  • The great thing about the Article.com trade program.
  • It's really important to be transparent with your clients.
  • E-design or full-service?
  • Monique has trade programs with all the retail stores that she shops with.
  • The percentage of her discount that Monique shares with her clients.
  • The way that Monique charges clients for her design services.
  • Some things to consider, about sourcing.
  • Doing your research about sourcing ahead of time really helps to prevent any unnecessary stress.
  • Being aware and knowing your product is very important.
  • Always have a price-point scale of the vendors that you deal with.
  • It's important to bear the location of vendors and their rep support in mind when making a purchase.
  • Knowing your product and your customer is a vital ingredient.
  • The importance of building sourcing and selling into the foundation of your business ahead of time.
  • A lot of Monique's coaching is strategy-based.
  • Building your sourcing repertoire list of vendors- it takes time but it's really worth it in the end.

Links:

Website: www.8STP.com

8STP FB Group

Master Class (Launching September 30th, 2018)

Instagram: Monique Nicole Holmes

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Monique's 1st appearance on the show: #178   (note she has since married- she was Monique Duarte- she is now Monique Holmes)

Deb Barrett #53

Gary Inman #154

Article.com #301

Dina Holland Honey & Fitz #354

Heather McManus #357

]]> 4581 no 364: Janelle Photopoulos: Leading, Not Simply Running, Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/364-janelle-photopoulos-leading-not-simply-running-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to the show! We have Janelle Blakely Photopoulos, the owner and principal of Blakely Interior Design, with us today for another episode in our series of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Janelle recently sent us an awesome letter explaining all the lessons, improvements and systems that she's applied to her business since listening to the podcast. She is really a great example of a thoughtful business owner in that she listens, she learns, and she takes action. Join us today to find out what Janelle has to tell you about the way that she leads her team and runs her business. Janelle earned a bachelor's degree in business and marketing from Syracuse University. Then, after honing her management skills with the corporate giant, AT&T, she realized her true calling and attended the Rhode Island School of Design to learn the technical aspects of interior design. Janelle started her residential interior design business in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, in 2010. Since then she has grown the business and established a reputation for creating really beautiful, livable interiors. Janelle has built a support team that reflects her vision and commitment to their clients. Her success is deeply rooted in her ability to collaborate and communicate adeptly with her clients and industry partners. In addition to the exponential growth of her design business, Janelle was recently nominated for Rhode Island’s 2018 Small Business Woman of the Year. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: Janelle talks about her passion for leading her team. The first time Janelle hired someone. The importance of tracking time. Shifting people into roles that are suited to their particular strengths. Taking the time to see your employees for what they're really good at. The team-wide assessment that Janelle had done to discover the specific strengths of each member of her team. You're only as good as the team that supports you. About the Client Concierge Experience. The small things that you do for the client really make all the difference. Some of the things she's learned along the way. The biggest takeaways that Janelle gained from the podcast. Janelle is a big believer in self improvement. The impact that Stacy Brown Randall has had on Janelle. Setting your client's expectations realistically in case something goes wrong. Links: Janelle's website: Blakely Interior Design Other episodes mentioned on the show: Susan Wintersteen- #164 Chad James - #68 Caitlyn Wait - #284 Eileen Hahn - #363 Candy Scott- #279 Tue, 02 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have Janelle Blakely Photopoulos, the owner and principal of Blakely Interior Design, with us today for another episode in our series of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Janelle recently sent us an awesome... Welcome to the show! We have Janelle Blakely Photopoulos, the owner and principal of Blakely Interior Design, with us today for another episode in our series of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Janelle recently sent us an awesome letter explaining all the lessons, improvements and systems that she's applied to her business since listening to the podcast. She is really a great example of a thoughtful business owner in that she listens, she learns, and she takes action. Join us today to find out what Janelle has to tell you about the way that she leads her team and runs her business. Janelle earned a bachelor's degree in business and marketing from Syracuse University. Then, after honing her management skills with the corporate giant, AT&T, she realized her true calling and attended the Rhode Island School of Design to learn the technical aspects of interior design. Janelle started her residential interior design business in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, in 2010. Since then she has grown the business and established a reputation for creating really beautiful, livable interiors. Janelle has built a support team that reflects her vision and commitment to their clients. Her success is deeply rooted in her ability to collaborate and communicate adeptly with her clients and industry partners. In addition to the exponential growth of her design business, Janelle was recently nominated for Rhode Island’s 2018 Small Business Woman of the Year. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: Janelle talks about her passion for leading her team. The first time Janelle hired someone. The importance of tracking time. Shifting people into roles that are suited to their particular strengths. Taking the time to see your employees for what they're really good at. The team-wide assessment that Janelle had done to discover the specific strengths of each member of her team. You're only as good as the team that supports you. About the Client Concierge Experience. The small things that you do for the client really make all the difference. Some of the things she's learned along the way. The biggest takeaways that Janelle gained from the podcast. Janelle is a big believer in self improvement. The impact that Stacy Brown Randall has had on Janelle. Setting your client's expectations realistically in case something goes wrong. Links: Janelle's website: Blakely Interior Design Other episodes mentioned on the show: Susan Wintersteen- #164 Chad James - #68 Caitlyn Wait - #284 Eileen Hahn - #363 Candy Scott- #279 Welcome to the show! We have Janelle Blakely Photopoulos, the owner and principal of Blakely Interior Design, with us today for another episode in our series of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. Janelle recently sent us an awesome letter explaining all the lessons, improvements and systems that she's applied to her business since listening to the podcast. She is really a great example of a thoughtful business owner in that she listens, she learns, and she takes action. Join us today to find out what Janelle has to tell you about the way that she leads her team and runs her business.

Janelle earned a bachelor's degree in business and marketing from Syracuse University. Then, after honing her management skills with the corporate giant, AT&T, she realized her true calling and attended the Rhode Island School of Design to learn the technical aspects of interior design. Janelle started her residential interior design business in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, in 2010. Since then she has grown the business and established a reputation for creating really beautiful, livable interiors. Janelle has built a support team that reflects her vision and commitment to their clients. Her success is deeply rooted in her ability to collaborate and communicate adeptly with her clients and industry partners. In addition to the exponential growth of her design business, Janelle was recently nominated for Rhode Island’s 2018 Small Business Woman of the Year. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • Janelle talks about her passion for leading her team.
  • The first time Janelle hired someone.
  • The importance of tracking time.
  • Shifting people into roles that are suited to their particular strengths.
  • Taking the time to see your employees for what they're really good at.
  • The team-wide assessment that Janelle had done to discover the specific strengths of each member of her team.
  • You're only as good as the team that supports you.
  • About the Client Concierge Experience.
  • The small things that you do for the client really make all the difference.
  • Some of the things she's learned along the way.
  • The biggest takeaways that Janelle gained from the podcast.
  • Janelle is a big believer in self improvement.
  • The impact that Stacy Brown Randall has had on Janelle.
  • Setting your client's expectations realistically in case something goes wrong.

Links:

Janelle's website: Blakely Interior Design

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Susan Wintersteen- #164

Chad James - #68

Caitlyn Wait - #284

Eileen Hahn - #363

Candy Scott- #279

]]> 3464 no 363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/363-power-talk-friday-eileen-hahn-building-an-exceptional-interior-design-team Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we're happy to introduce you to Luann's exceptional cousin, Eileen Hahn! Eileen's superpower is helping people to intentionally build outstanding and exceptional teams- whether they have a dozen employees, or only one! On the show today Eileen will explain some of the layers and deep processes and that are required for you to become a really good leader. Listen in to hear what Eileen has to tell you about building a really extraordinary interior design team! Eileen is a principal at Organization Effectiveness Consultants, a San Diego based management consulting firm. She partners with leaders of organizations to establish new levels of performance, financial results, teamwork, and employee work passion. Eileen achieves this by first examining current processes and systems, and then collaborating with the company leaders to apply changes which improve productivity and profitability. Eileen works extensively with organizations which are going through rapid growth, downsizing, mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, and cultural transitions. She facilitates succession planning, strategic planning, organizational change, joint problem solving, leadership development, and team building. In addition, Eileen also designs C suite selection and evaluation processes and she works with boards of directors to develop, implement, and facilitate these processes. Eileen is also a professional speaker and a university instructor. Some of her national and international clients include H.G. Fenton Company, The Wonderful Company, San Diego Padres, Ericsson Wireless Communications, Qualcomm, Pfizer Inc., General Atomics, Occidental College, Brooklynn Museum, General Motors, Anheuser Busch Corporation, The Venetian & Palazzo Hotels, Sea World Parks and Entertainment, and LEGOLAND. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: Eileen is part of Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts, which is coming out at the beginning of 2019. (Eileen's chapter is called The Care and Feeding of Exceptional Employees.) What Eileen means when she talks about exceptional employees. Hiring someone who has the specific skills you're looking for. Eileen explains the selection process that she used to help a certain company to hire exceptional employees. The special ingredient in every sales call. What makes someone exceptional. The type of kindness, care, and feeding that's necessary for exceptional employees. Employees really present a big challenge to employers. Placing people orientation before task orientation in a business. Establishing trust and care with your employees. Some of the key principals behind hiring (and keeping) exceptional employees. Determining for yourself, as a principal, what an exceptional performance really looks like. People are willing to pay for exceptional! Taking the time to learn to be an exceptional leader. The exceptional benefits of taking the time to care for, and feed your employees. The importance of thorough training for employees. Links: Website: Eileen Hahn LinkedIn: Eileen Hahn Email: info@eileenbhahn.com Fri, 28 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we're happy to introduce you to Luann's exceptional cousin, Eileen Hahn! Eileen's superpower is helping people to intentionally build outstanding and exceptional teams- whether they have a dozen employees, or only... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we're happy to introduce you to Luann's exceptional cousin, Eileen Hahn! Eileen's superpower is helping people to intentionally build outstanding and exceptional teams- whether they have a dozen employees, or only one! On the show today Eileen will explain some of the layers and deep processes and that are required for you to become a really good leader. Listen in to hear what Eileen has to tell you about building a really extraordinary interior design team! Eileen is a principal at Organization Effectiveness Consultants, a San Diego based management consulting firm. She partners with leaders of organizations to establish new levels of performance, financial results, teamwork, and employee work passion. Eileen achieves this by first examining current processes and systems, and then collaborating with the company leaders to apply changes which improve productivity and profitability. Eileen works extensively with organizations which are going through rapid growth, downsizing, mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, and cultural transitions. She facilitates succession planning, strategic planning, organizational change, joint problem solving, leadership development, and team building. In addition, Eileen also designs C suite selection and evaluation processes and she works with boards of directors to develop, implement, and facilitate these processes. Eileen is also a professional speaker and a university instructor. Some of her national and international clients include H.G. Fenton Company, The Wonderful Company, San Diego Padres, Ericsson Wireless Communications, Qualcomm, Pfizer Inc., General Atomics, Occidental College, Brooklynn Museum, General Motors, Anheuser Busch Corporation, The Venetian & Palazzo Hotels, Sea World Parks and Entertainment, and LEGOLAND. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: Eileen is part of Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts, which is coming out at the beginning of 2019. (Eileen's chapter is called The Care and Feeding of Exceptional Employees.) What Eileen means when she talks about exceptional employees. Hiring someone who has the specific skills you're looking for. Eileen explains the selection process that she used to help a certain company to hire exceptional employees. The special ingredient in every sales call. What makes someone exceptional. The type of kindness, care, and feeding that's necessary for exceptional employees. Employees really present a big challenge to employers. Placing people orientation before task orientation in a business. Establishing trust and care with your employees. Some of the key principals behind hiring (and keeping) exceptional employees. Determining for yourself, as a principal, what an exceptional performance really looks like. People are willing to pay for exceptional! Taking the time to learn to be an exceptional leader. The exceptional benefits of taking the time to care for, and feed your employees. The importance of thorough training for employees. Links: Website: Eileen Hahn LinkedIn: Eileen Hahn Email: info@eileenbhahn.com Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we're happy to introduce you to Luann's exceptional cousin, Eileen Hahn! Eileen's superpower is helping people to intentionally build outstanding and exceptional teams- whether they have a dozen employees, or only one! On the show today Eileen will explain some of the layers and deep processes and that are required for you to become a really good leader. Listen in to hear what Eileen has to tell you about building a really extraordinary interior design team!

Eileen is a principal at Organization Effectiveness Consultants, a San Diego based management consulting firm. She partners with leaders of organizations to establish new levels of performance, financial results, teamwork, and employee work passion. Eileen achieves this by first examining current processes and systems, and then collaborating with the company leaders to apply changes which improve productivity and profitability. Eileen works extensively with organizations which are going through rapid growth, downsizing, mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, and cultural transitions. She facilitates succession planning, strategic planning, organizational change, joint problem solving, leadership development, and team building. In addition, Eileen also designs C suite selection and evaluation processes and she works with boards of directors to develop, implement, and facilitate these processes. Eileen is also a professional speaker and a university instructor. Some of her national and international clients include H.G. Fenton Company, The Wonderful Company, San Diego Padres, Ericsson Wireless Communications, Qualcomm, Pfizer Inc., General Atomics, Occidental College, Brooklynn Museum, General Motors, Anheuser Busch Corporation, The Venetian & Palazzo Hotels, Sea World Parks and Entertainment, and LEGOLAND. Listen in today to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • Eileen is part of Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- The Power Talk Friday Experts, which is coming out at the beginning of 2019. (Eileen's chapter is called The Care and Feeding of Exceptional Employees.)
  • What Eileen means when she talks about exceptional employees.
  • Hiring someone who has the specific skills you're looking for.
  • Eileen explains the selection process that she used to help a certain company to hire exceptional employees.
  • The special ingredient in every sales call.
  • What makes someone exceptional.
  • The type of kindness, care, and feeding that's necessary for exceptional employees.
  • Employees really present a big challenge to employers.
  • Placing people orientation before task orientation in a business.
  • Establishing trust and care with your employees.
  • Some of the key principals behind hiring (and keeping) exceptional employees.
  • Determining for yourself, as a principal, what an exceptional performance really looks like.
  • People are willing to pay for exceptional!
  • Taking the time to learn to be an exceptional leader.
  • The exceptional benefits of taking the time to care for, and feed your employees.
  • The importance of thorough training for employees.

Links:

Website: Eileen Hahn

LinkedIn: Eileen Hahn

Email: info@eileenbhahn.com

]]> 3888 no 362: Breegan Jane: Interior Designer, Podcaster, Entrepreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/362-breegan-jane-interior-designer-podcaster-entrepreneur Welcome to today's episode! We are very happy to introduce you to Breegan Jane, a unique and fun individual who is a super-high achiever! Thirty-three-year-old Breegan is an interior designer who also has a successful blog, a high following on Instagram, and she's a podcast/radio host. She previously worked as a creative director in the luxury yacht business and as a property manager for multi-international million-dollar homes. Listen in today to find out about Breegan's vast experience and how it informs her currently, as an entrepreneur and interior designer.  Multifaceted entrepreneur Breegan Jane does it all.  A full-time businesswoman, interior designer, blogger, and popular podcast host of Mom Life Yo, all in all, her spare time. Her most recent project is the design of the new, buzz-worthy Los Angeles restaurant, NATIVE, spearheaded by award-winning Chef Nyesha Arrington of Top Cheffame. A single mom from Southern California, Breegan Jane credits her boys for pushing her to break down walls and test boundaries. She uses her powerful voice to inspire others and bring joy to people’s lives. Listen in to find out what Breegan has to share on the show today. Show highlights: How Breegan's experience, managing international real estate projects with full staff and working as a creative director and marketing professional for a luxury yacht manufacturer, translates to her current interior design business. The importance of great leadership. Great lessons from great bosses along the way. Utilizing every opportunity to the best of your ability. Feeling more at home in Dubai than in Texas. The importance of visual representation. Being given the space to run with your ideas. Transitioning to the design world. How Breegan developed through her experience. The kind of project Breegan enjoys the most. Identifying 'no-win' situations with clients. What being a mom and entrepreneur mean to Breegan. The way that Breegan was raised to be empowered. The power of turning negatives into positives. Breegan's dreams and aspirations for the future. Links: Breegan Jane Facebook: Breegan Jane Breegan Jane Blog Instagram: Breegan Jane Twitter: Breegan Jane Other episodes mentioned on this show: Amber Lewis # 184 Vanessa DeLeon # 18 Tue, 25 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We are very happy to introduce you to Breegan Jane, a unique and fun individual who is a super-high achiever! Thirty-three-year-old Breegan is an interior designer who also has a successful blog, a high following on... Welcome to today's episode! We are very happy to introduce you to Breegan Jane, a unique and fun individual who is a super-high achiever! Thirty-three-year-old Breegan is an interior designer who also has a successful blog, a high following on Instagram, and she's a podcast/radio host. She previously worked as a creative director in the luxury yacht business and as a property manager for multi-international million-dollar homes. Listen in today to find out about Breegan's vast experience and how it informs her currently, as an entrepreneur and interior designer.  Multifaceted entrepreneur Breegan Jane does it all.  A full-time businesswoman, interior designer, blogger, and popular podcast host of Mom Life Yo, all in all, her spare time. Her most recent project is the design of the new, buzz-worthy Los Angeles restaurant, NATIVE, spearheaded by award-winning Chef Nyesha Arrington of Top Cheffame. A single mom from Southern California, Breegan Jane credits her boys for pushing her to break down walls and test boundaries. She uses her powerful voice to inspire others and bring joy to people’s lives. Listen in to find out what Breegan has to share on the show today. Show highlights: How Breegan's experience, managing international real estate projects with full staff and working as a creative director and marketing professional for a luxury yacht manufacturer, translates to her current interior design business. The importance of great leadership. Great lessons from great bosses along the way. Utilizing every opportunity to the best of your ability. Feeling more at home in Dubai than in Texas. The importance of visual representation. Being given the space to run with your ideas. Transitioning to the design world. How Breegan developed through her experience. The kind of project Breegan enjoys the most. Identifying 'no-win' situations with clients. What being a mom and entrepreneur mean to Breegan. The way that Breegan was raised to be empowered. The power of turning negatives into positives. Breegan's dreams and aspirations for the future. Links: Breegan Jane Facebook: Breegan Jane Breegan Jane Blog Instagram: Breegan Jane Twitter: Breegan Jane Other episodes mentioned on this show: Amber Lewis # 184 Vanessa DeLeon # 18 Welcome to today's episode! We are very happy to introduce you to Breegan Jane, a unique and fun individual who is a super-high achiever! Thirty-three-year-old Breegan is an interior designer who also has a successful blog, a high following on Instagram, and she's a podcast/radio host. She previously worked as a creative director in the luxury yacht business and as a property manager for multi-international million-dollar homes. Listen in today to find out about Breegan's vast experience and how it informs her currently, as an entrepreneur and interior designer. 

Multifaceted entrepreneur Breegan Jane does it all.  A full-time businesswoman, interior designer, blogger, and popular podcast host of Mom Life Yo, all in all, her spare time. Her most recent project is the design of the new, buzz-worthy Los Angeles restaurant, NATIVE, spearheaded by award-winning Chef Nyesha Arrington of Top Cheffame. A single mom from Southern California, Breegan Jane credits her boys for pushing her to break down walls and test boundaries. She uses her powerful voice to inspire others and bring joy to people’s lives. Listen in to find out what Breegan has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • How Breegan's experience, managing international real estate projects with full staff and working as a creative director and marketing professional for a luxury yacht manufacturer, translates to her current interior design business.
  • The importance of great leadership.
  • Great lessons from great bosses along the way.
  • Utilizing every opportunity to the best of your ability.
  • Feeling more at home in Dubai than in Texas.
  • The importance of visual representation.
  • Being given the space to run with your ideas.
  • Transitioning to the design world.
  • How Breegan developed through her experience.
  • The kind of project Breegan enjoys the most.
  • Identifying 'no-win' situations with clients.
  • What being a mom and entrepreneur mean to Breegan.
  • The way that Breegan was raised to be empowered.
  • The power of turning negatives into positives.
  • Breegan's dreams and aspirations for the future.

Links:

Breegan Jane

Facebook: Breegan Jane

Breegan Jane Blog

Instagram: Breegan Jane

Twitter: Breegan Jane

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Amber Lewis # 184

Vanessa DeLeon # 18

]]> 3030 no 361: Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Does Your Interior Design Business Need a CFO? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/361-power-talk-friday-kimberly-merlitti-does-your-interior-design-business-need-a-cfo Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have Kimberly Merlitti, the owner of KMM Consulting, with us. In her experience, Kim has found that accounting and finances seem to scare most interior designers. So she helps them by going into their businesses and taking on the role of CFO. From there she teaches them how to really understand what they need to do in order to become successful as entrepreneurs as well as interior designers. Kim's specialty is helping designers with what she calls Project Revenue Accounting, which is how to manage the revenue of a project that is already in process. Listen in today to find out how Kim helps interior designers to really get to grips with their finances and advance their businesses. KMM Consulting takes on clients from around the United States. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University located in San Francisco, CA. KMM Consulting’s clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: Kim explains the difference between accounting and projection. What Kim has learned the hard way, about the difference between general contracting and interior design. Creating a contract and coming up with the budget for a client. Unknown factors that need to be taken into account when working out a budget. Why you need to start tracking your time. How Kim uses a payroll calculator to help designers come up with budgets. Working out the billing for your client. Restructuring things when necessary, after tracking your hours. Taking the time, as a principal, to teach your staff about efficiency. The importance of understanding regulations. Working out the cost of employees. How to know if it's time to hire somebody. The process of doing the projections. Kimberly works with designers in all states.  Other episodes mentioned on the show: krista Coupar # 150 Links: Website - KMM Consulting Facebook - KMM Consulting LinkedIn - Kimberly Merlitti Fri, 21 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have Kimberly Merlitti, the owner of KMM Consulting, with us. In her experience, Kim has found that accounting and finances seem to scare most interior designers. So she helps them by going into their businesses... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have Kimberly Merlitti, the owner of KMM Consulting, with us. In her experience, Kim has found that accounting and finances seem to scare most interior designers. So she helps them by going into their businesses and taking on the role of CFO. From there she teaches them how to really understand what they need to do in order to become successful as entrepreneurs as well as interior designers. Kim's specialty is helping designers with what she calls Project Revenue Accounting, which is how to manage the revenue of a project that is already in process. Listen in today to find out how Kim helps interior designers to really get to grips with their finances and advance their businesses. KMM Consulting takes on clients from around the United States. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University located in San Francisco, CA. KMM Consulting’s clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: Kim explains the difference between accounting and projection. What Kim has learned the hard way, about the difference between general contracting and interior design. Creating a contract and coming up with the budget for a client. Unknown factors that need to be taken into account when working out a budget. Why you need to start tracking your time. How Kim uses a payroll calculator to help designers come up with budgets. Working out the billing for your client. Restructuring things when necessary, after tracking your hours. Taking the time, as a principal, to teach your staff about efficiency. The importance of understanding regulations. Working out the cost of employees. How to know if it's time to hire somebody. The process of doing the projections. Kimberly works with designers in all states.  Other episodes mentioned on the show: krista Coupar # 150 Links: Website - KMM Consulting Facebook - KMM Consulting LinkedIn - Kimberly Merlitti Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today we have Kimberly Merlitti, the owner of KMM Consulting, with us. In her experience, Kim has found that accounting and finances seem to scare most interior designers. So she helps them by going into their businesses and taking on the role of CFO. From there she teaches them how to really understand what they need to do in order to become successful as entrepreneurs as well as interior designers. Kim's specialty is helping designers with what she calls Project Revenue Accounting, which is how to manage the revenue of a project that is already in process. Listen in today to find out how Kim helps interior designers to really get to grips with their finances and advance their businesses.

KMM Consulting takes on clients from around the United States. Kimberly has 20 years of experience working in accounting for companies such as Swinerton Builders, WRNS Studio and Martin Group. She has her Masters in Accounting from Golden Gate University located in San Francisco, CA. KMM Consulting’s clientele includes a diverse group of service based companies, with the main focus on small interior design, construction, and architectural firms. The goal of her firm is to make the businesses she works for as profitable as they can be by educating them on accounting, cash flow management, tax deductions, project reporting, and business management. Listen in today to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Kim explains the difference between accounting and projection.
  • What Kim has learned the hard way, about the difference between general contracting and interior design.
  • Creating a contract and coming up with the budget for a client.
  • Unknown factors that need to be taken into account when working out a budget.
  • Why you need to start tracking your time.
  • How Kim uses a payroll calculator to help designers come up with budgets.
  • Working out the billing for your client.
  • Restructuring things when necessary, after tracking your hours.
  • Taking the time, as a principal, to teach your staff about efficiency.
  • The importance of understanding regulations.
  • Working out the cost of employees.
  • How to know if it's time to hire somebody.
  • The process of doing the projections.
  • Kimberly works with designers in all states. 

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

krista Coupar # 150

Links:

Website - KMM Consulting

Facebook - KMM Consulting

LinkedIn - Kimberly Merlitti

]]> 4259 no 360: David Phoenix and His New Kravet Fabric Collection, Well-Suited http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/360-david-phoenix-and-his-new-kravet-fabric-collection-well-suited Welcome to today's show! We're really excited to have the celebrated and influential David Phoenix, of David Phoenix Interior Design in Los Angeles, with us on the show! David is a self-taught designer and today we're looking forward to talking to him about how he found his way, his passion and his point of view, as a designer. And we also talk to him about the new fabric line he recently developed and launched with Kravet Inc. Listen in to find out more! David Phoenix Interior Design gives each project a singular ambiance that wholeheartedly embraces, uplifts and celebrates its inhabitants. And David is known for thoughtful, modern luxury and livability. David finds inspiration from a myriad of styles, looking back through history as he creates spaces for today. His work personifies his own approachable, self-assured manner—gracious and considerate. In juxtaposing modern and traditional elements, his aesthetic conveys an easy welcoming sensibility, rich with classic haberdashery details and nuance. David draws from his experience and instinct in the all-important matters of style and function. David enjoys an international clientele of celebrities, royalty, business magnates and discerning homeowners, including Maria Shriver, former Los Angeles Mayor, Richard Riordan and actor Rob Lowe, whose home was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest. He believes in living each day to the fullest, delivering personal, sophisticated and thoughtful environments. Join us today and find out what he has to share. Show highlights: David explains how he sees a quintessential American point of view It all started for David with really great architectural designs in America David's day at design school David's journey to becoming an interior designer How David ended up in Los Angeles, California David's first job in Los Angeles How the loss of a friend led David to start out as an interior designer David's remarkable shopping encounter with Maria Shriver Doing worthy things to become worthy What it's really all about for David David's tagline is "Think big and you'll be big" A description of the fabric line that David's recently developed The labor-of-love process of David developing his handsome fabric line David's appreciation of the Kravet family and their 'culture of Kravet'  Links: Website: David Phoenix Link to his collection with Kravet: Kravet Fabric Designer Link to his furnishings collection with Hickory Chair: Hickory Chair Furniture Instagram: David Phoenix Pinterest: David Phoenix Facebook: David Phoenix Come and meet Luann and David in person, on Wednesday, October 3rd, at the Kravet Showroom in Chicago, for Chicago Design Week. Go to Luann Nigara for more information. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: 345: Chris Ramey Tue, 18 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We're really excited to have the celebrated and influential David Phoenix, of David Phoenix Interior Design in Los Angeles, with us on the show! David is a self-taught designer and today we're looking forward to talking to him... Welcome to today's show! We're really excited to have the celebrated and influential David Phoenix, of David Phoenix Interior Design in Los Angeles, with us on the show! David is a self-taught designer and today we're looking forward to talking to him about how he found his way, his passion and his point of view, as a designer. And we also talk to him about the new fabric line he recently developed and launched with Kravet Inc. Listen in to find out more! David Phoenix Interior Design gives each project a singular ambiance that wholeheartedly embraces, uplifts and celebrates its inhabitants. And David is known for thoughtful, modern luxury and livability. David finds inspiration from a myriad of styles, looking back through history as he creates spaces for today. His work personifies his own approachable, self-assured manner—gracious and considerate. In juxtaposing modern and traditional elements, his aesthetic conveys an easy welcoming sensibility, rich with classic haberdashery details and nuance. David draws from his experience and instinct in the all-important matters of style and function. David enjoys an international clientele of celebrities, royalty, business magnates and discerning homeowners, including Maria Shriver, former Los Angeles Mayor, Richard Riordan and actor Rob Lowe, whose home was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest. He believes in living each day to the fullest, delivering personal, sophisticated and thoughtful environments. Join us today and find out what he has to share. Show highlights: David explains how he sees a quintessential American point of view It all started for David with really great architectural designs in America David's day at design school David's journey to becoming an interior designer How David ended up in Los Angeles, California David's first job in Los Angeles How the loss of a friend led David to start out as an interior designer David's remarkable shopping encounter with Maria Shriver Doing worthy things to become worthy What it's really all about for David David's tagline is "Think big and you'll be big" A description of the fabric line that David's recently developed The labor-of-love process of David developing his handsome fabric line David's appreciation of the Kravet family and their 'culture of Kravet'  Links: Website: David Phoenix Link to his collection with Kravet: Kravet Fabric Designer Link to his furnishings collection with Hickory Chair: Hickory Chair Furniture Instagram: David Phoenix Pinterest: David Phoenix Facebook: David Phoenix Come and meet Luann and David in person, on Wednesday, October 3rd, at the Kravet Showroom in Chicago, for Chicago Design Week. Go to Luann Nigara for more information. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: 345: Chris Ramey Welcome to today's show! We're really excited to have the celebrated and influential David Phoenix, of David Phoenix Interior Design in Los Angeles, with us on the show! David is a self-taught designer and today we're looking forward to talking to him about how he found his way, his passion and his point of view, as a designer. And we also talk to him about the new fabric line he recently developed and launched with Kravet Inc. Listen in to find out more!

David Phoenix Interior Design gives each project a singular ambiance that wholeheartedly embraces, uplifts and celebrates its inhabitants. And David is known for thoughtful, modern luxury and livability. David finds inspiration from a myriad of styles, looking back through history as he creates spaces for today. His work personifies his own approachable, self-assured manner—gracious and considerate. In juxtaposing modern and traditional elements, his aesthetic conveys an easy welcoming sensibility, rich with classic haberdashery details and nuance. David draws from his experience and instinct in the all-important matters of style and function. David enjoys an international clientele of celebrities, royalty, business magnates and discerning homeowners, including Maria Shriver, former Los Angeles Mayor, Richard Riordan and actor Rob Lowe, whose home was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest. He believes in living each day to the fullest, delivering personal, sophisticated and thoughtful environments. Join us today and find out what he has to share.

Show highlights:

David explains how he sees a quintessential American point of view

It all started for David with really great architectural designs in America

David's day at design school

David's journey to becoming an interior designer

How David ended up in Los Angeles, California

David's first job in Los Angeles

How the loss of a friend led David to start out as an interior designer

David's remarkable shopping encounter with Maria Shriver

Doing worthy things to become worthy

What it's really all about for David

David's tagline is "Think big and you'll be big"

A description of the fabric line that David's recently developed

The labor-of-love process of David developing his handsome fabric line

David's appreciation of the Kravet family and their 'culture of Kravet' 

Links:

Website: David Phoenix

Link to his collection with Kravet: Kravet Fabric Designer

Link to his furnishings collection with Hickory Chair: Hickory Chair Furniture

Instagram: David Phoenix

Pinterest: David Phoenix

Facebook: David Phoenix

Come and meet Luann and David in person, on Wednesday, October 3rd, at the Kravet Showroom in Chicago, for Chicago Design Week. Go to Luann Nigara for more information.

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

345: Chris Ramey

]]> 3052 no 359: Power Talk Friday: Colleen Primm: A Real Strategy to Get Interior Design Projects Utilizing Facebook Groups http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/359-power-talk-friday-colleen-primm-a-real-strategy-to-get-interior-design-projects-utilizing-facebook-groups-0 Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have a new designer, Colleen Primm, joining us today. Recently Colleen decided to start a client-facing Facebook group to share her expertise, to get her name out there, and also to get some clients into her pipeline. Although she only started the group at the beginning of June this year, she already has more than 640 members, almost all of whom are potential clients! On the show today she will be talking to us about her Facebook group and she will also explain exactly what she puts in there. Listen in to find out how Colleen has managed to attract so many potential clients to her group in such a short space of time. Colleen, who has a bachelor’s degree in business administration (management) from The University of Toledo, an M.B.A. from Averett University and has also attended Cuyahoga Community College for Interior Design, has taken a pretty unconventional path to interior design.  Before deciding to make the change, she worked in the banking industry for twelve years, where she first underwrote commercial loans, and then a little later, mortgage loans. After a few years, she became a trainer, teaching people how to write mortgage loans. While working on residential loans, Colleen got to see a lot of homes, because she was reviewing home appraisals. That's where her love of design, and wanting to help people achieve better-looking homes came from. She finally decided to turn her passion into reality and quit her banking job to go back to school for Interior Design. So Colleen is the rare interior designer who can not only decorate your home but also talk to you about your mortgage! Listen in to find out more!               Show highlights: Why Colleen chose this particular method to market her firm. What it will take for you to join Colleen's facebook group. Colleen wants to have only members who will bring value to the group. What inspired Colleen to start her Facebook group. The importance of getting constructive feedback. The precise message that Colleen sent out when she started her Facebook group. Getting lots of engagement with Facebook groups. Colleen's strategic way of attracting mainly local clients to her group. All about Colleen's Facebook contests. The number of paid consultations that Colleen has done as a result of the group. Colleen explains and clarifies the amounts she charges. The amount of preparation that Facebook Live requires. The kind of questions that Colleen deals with. The events that she's created as a result of her Facebook group. Making connections- and making money at the same time! The kind of preparation that Colleen does and how she manages her time. The importance of being really well organized. How to learn more about lenders and the programs that they have to assist designers. Links: Facebook: Colleen Primm Instagram: Colleen Primm Design Website: Colleen Primm Design Private Facebook Group: Primm and Proper Design Talk with Colleen Primm Fri, 14 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have a new designer, Colleen Primm, joining us today. Recently Colleen decided to start a client-facing Facebook group to share her expertise, to get her name out there, and also to get some clients into... Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have a new designer, Colleen Primm, joining us today. Recently Colleen decided to start a client-facing Facebook group to share her expertise, to get her name out there, and also to get some clients into her pipeline. Although she only started the group at the beginning of June this year, she already has more than 640 members, almost all of whom are potential clients! On the show today she will be talking to us about her Facebook group and she will also explain exactly what she puts in there. Listen in to find out how Colleen has managed to attract so many potential clients to her group in such a short space of time. Colleen, who has a bachelor’s degree in business administration (management) from The University of Toledo, an M.B.A. from Averett University and has also attended Cuyahoga Community College for Interior Design, has taken a pretty unconventional path to interior design.  Before deciding to make the change, she worked in the banking industry for twelve years, where she first underwrote commercial loans, and then a little later, mortgage loans. After a few years, she became a trainer, teaching people how to write mortgage loans. While working on residential loans, Colleen got to see a lot of homes, because she was reviewing home appraisals. That's where her love of design, and wanting to help people achieve better-looking homes came from. She finally decided to turn her passion into reality and quit her banking job to go back to school for Interior Design. So Colleen is the rare interior designer who can not only decorate your home but also talk to you about your mortgage! Listen in to find out more!               Show highlights: Why Colleen chose this particular method to market her firm. What it will take for you to join Colleen's facebook group. Colleen wants to have only members who will bring value to the group. What inspired Colleen to start her Facebook group. The importance of getting constructive feedback. The precise message that Colleen sent out when she started her Facebook group. Getting lots of engagement with Facebook groups. Colleen's strategic way of attracting mainly local clients to her group. All about Colleen's Facebook contests. The number of paid consultations that Colleen has done as a result of the group. Colleen explains and clarifies the amounts she charges. The amount of preparation that Facebook Live requires. The kind of questions that Colleen deals with. The events that she's created as a result of her Facebook group. Making connections- and making money at the same time! The kind of preparation that Colleen does and how she manages her time. The importance of being really well organized. How to learn more about lenders and the programs that they have to assist designers. Links: Facebook: Colleen Primm Instagram: Colleen Primm Design Website: Colleen Primm Design Private Facebook Group: Primm and Proper Design Talk with Colleen Primm Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have a new designer, Colleen Primm, joining us today. Recently Colleen decided to start a client-facing Facebook group to share her expertise, to get her name out there, and also to get some clients into her pipeline. Although she only started the group at the beginning of June this year, she already has more than 640 members, almost all of whom are potential clients! On the show today she will be talking to us about her Facebook group and she will also explain exactly what she puts in there. Listen in to find out how Colleen has managed to attract so many potential clients to her group in such a short space of time.

Colleen, who has a bachelor’s degree in business administration (management) from The University of Toledo, an M.B.A. from Averett University and has also attended Cuyahoga Community College for Interior Design, has taken a pretty unconventional path to interior design.  Before deciding to make the change, she worked in the banking industry for twelve years, where she first underwrote commercial loans, and then a little later, mortgage loans. After a few years, she became a trainer, teaching people how to write mortgage loans. While working on residential loans, Colleen got to see a lot of homes, because she was reviewing home appraisals. That's where her love of design, and wanting to help people achieve better-looking homes came from. She finally decided to turn her passion into reality and quit her banking job to go back to school for Interior Design. So Colleen is the rare interior designer who can not only decorate your home but also talk to you about your mortgage! Listen in to find out more!              

Show highlights:

  • Why Colleen chose this particular method to market her firm.
  • What it will take for you to join Colleen's facebook group.
  • Colleen wants to have only members who will bring value to the group.
  • What inspired Colleen to start her Facebook group.
  • The importance of getting constructive feedback.
  • The precise message that Colleen sent out when she started her Facebook group.
  • Getting lots of engagement with Facebook groups.
  • Colleen's strategic way of attracting mainly local clients to her group.
  • All about Colleen's Facebook contests.
  • The number of paid consultations that Colleen has done as a result of the group.
  • Colleen explains and clarifies the amounts she charges.
  • The amount of preparation that Facebook Live requires.
  • The kind of questions that Colleen deals with.
  • The events that she's created as a result of her Facebook group.
  • Making connections- and making money at the same time!
  • The kind of preparation that Colleen does and how she manages her time.
  • The importance of being really well organized.
  • How to learn more about lenders and the programs that they have to assist designers.

Links:

Facebook: Colleen Primm

Instagram: Colleen Primm Design

Website: Colleen Primm Design

Private Facebook Group: Primm and Proper Design Talk with Colleen Primm

]]> 4755 no 358: How To Decorate - The Ballard Design Podcast Hosts Join Me. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/358-how-to-decorate-the-ballard-design-podcast-hosts-join-me Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have Karen Mooney, Taryn Schwartz, and Caroline McDonald with us on the show today. They are the three women responsible for the designer program at Ballard Designs and they are also behind the Ballard Designs' podcast, How To Decorate. Today they will be sharing their experience of interviewing celebrity interior designers for the podcast and also some of what goes on behind the scenes with the celebrity designers. Listen in today to find out what it really takes, and what really happens, when you get the opportunity, and then make the commitment to being a celebrity designer for a company as large as Ballard Designs. Karen, Taryn, and Caroline are the hosts of the Ballard Designs' How To Decorate podcast. And their goal is to help you to unleash your 'inner decorator'. Outside of the podcast, they work in different departments at Ballard Designs. Karen has a background in graphic design and she's the senior vice-president of Brand management. Taryn is an industrial designer in the Product Design department. And Caroline manages content marketing, specifically the blog How To Decorate, and also art producing digital marketing photography. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: Why they prefer doing their interviews in-person. How the relationship between Ballard Designs and their celebrity designers works. Why Ballard Designs chose to work with Suzanne Kasler, Bunny Williams, and Miles Redd. Making their celebrity designs affordable to their customers. The level of creative involvement of the talented celebrity designers. What it really takes to become selected as a celebrity designer. Why it takes what it does to become selected as a celebrity designer. Why it really takes such a lot of work to be a celebrity designer! Finding the right kind of vendor. Why a long-term business relationship is actually a lot like a marriage. Bringing Suzanne onboard. Then bringing Bunny and Miles onboard. The way that the designers earn their money. The way that people respond to Miles' dramatic pieces. Using inspiration to grab the imagination of the customer. Ways of making tried-and-trusted products look fresh again. Some ways that designers could get to become the celebrity designers. Doors always open as a result of relationships- so be nice! Big name designers discussed on today's show: Bunny Williams, Miles Redd and Suzanne Kasler You can find the How To Decorate podcast on iTunes. Note: This show will also be on video on Luann's Youtube channel. Links: Ballard Designs How To Decorate Instagram: Ballard Designs Facebook: Ballard Designs Tue, 11 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have Karen Mooney, Taryn Schwartz, and Caroline McDonald with us on the show today. They are the three women responsible for the designer program at Ballard Designs and they are also behind the Ballard... Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have Karen Mooney, Taryn Schwartz, and Caroline McDonald with us on the show today. They are the three women responsible for the designer program at Ballard Designs and they are also behind the Ballard Designs' podcast, How To Decorate. Today they will be sharing their experience of interviewing celebrity interior designers for the podcast and also some of what goes on behind the scenes with the celebrity designers. Listen in today to find out what it really takes, and what really happens, when you get the opportunity, and then make the commitment to being a celebrity designer for a company as large as Ballard Designs. Karen, Taryn, and Caroline are the hosts of the Ballard Designs' How To Decorate podcast. And their goal is to help you to unleash your 'inner decorator'. Outside of the podcast, they work in different departments at Ballard Designs. Karen has a background in graphic design and she's the senior vice-president of Brand management. Taryn is an industrial designer in the Product Design department. And Caroline manages content marketing, specifically the blog How To Decorate, and also art producing digital marketing photography. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: Why they prefer doing their interviews in-person. How the relationship between Ballard Designs and their celebrity designers works. Why Ballard Designs chose to work with Suzanne Kasler, Bunny Williams, and Miles Redd. Making their celebrity designs affordable to their customers. The level of creative involvement of the talented celebrity designers. What it really takes to become selected as a celebrity designer. Why it takes what it does to become selected as a celebrity designer. Why it really takes such a lot of work to be a celebrity designer! Finding the right kind of vendor. Why a long-term business relationship is actually a lot like a marriage. Bringing Suzanne onboard. Then bringing Bunny and Miles onboard. The way that the designers earn their money. The way that people respond to Miles' dramatic pieces. Using inspiration to grab the imagination of the customer. Ways of making tried-and-trusted products look fresh again. Some ways that designers could get to become the celebrity designers. Doors always open as a result of relationships- so be nice! Big name designers discussed on today's show: Bunny Williams, Miles Redd and Suzanne Kasler You can find the How To Decorate podcast on iTunes. Note: This show will also be on video on Luann's Youtube channel. Links: Ballard Designs How To Decorate Instagram: Ballard Designs Facebook: Ballard Designs Welcome to today's episode! We are delighted to have Karen Mooney, Taryn Schwartz, and Caroline McDonald with us on the show today. They are the three women responsible for the designer program at Ballard Designs and they are also behind the Ballard Designs' podcast, How To Decorate. Today they will be sharing their experience of interviewing celebrity interior designers for the podcast and also some of what goes on behind the scenes with the celebrity designers. Listen in today to find out what it really takes, and what really happens, when you get the opportunity, and then make the commitment to being a celebrity designer for a company as large as Ballard Designs.

Karen, Taryn, and Caroline are the hosts of the Ballard Designs' How To Decorate podcast. And their goal is to help you to unleash your 'inner decorator'. Outside of the podcast, they work in different departments at Ballard Designs. Karen has a background in graphic design and she's the senior vice-president of Brand management. Taryn is an industrial designer in the Product Design department. And Caroline manages content marketing, specifically the blog How To Decorate, and also art producing digital marketing photography. Listen in today to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Why they prefer doing their interviews in-person.
  • How the relationship between Ballard Designs and their celebrity designers works.
  • Why Ballard Designs chose to work with Suzanne Kasler, Bunny Williams, and Miles Redd.
  • Making their celebrity designs affordable to their customers.
  • The level of creative involvement of the talented celebrity designers.
  • What it really takes to become selected as a celebrity designer.
  • Why it takes what it does to become selected as a celebrity designer.
  • Why it really takes such a lot of work to be a celebrity designer!
  • Finding the right kind of vendor.
  • Why a long-term business relationship is actually a lot like a marriage.
  • Bringing Suzanne onboard.
  • Then bringing Bunny and Miles onboard.
  • The way that the designers earn their money.
  • The way that people respond to Miles' dramatic pieces.
  • Using inspiration to grab the imagination of the customer.
  • Ways of making tried-and-trusted products look fresh again.
  • Some ways that designers could get to become the celebrity designers.
  • Doors always open as a result of relationships- so be nice!

Big name designers discussed on today's show:

Bunny Williams, Miles Redd and Suzanne Kasler

You can find the How To Decorate podcast on iTunes.

Note: This show will also be on video on Luann's Youtube channel.

Links:

Ballard Designs

How To Decorate

Instagram: Ballard Designs

Facebook: Ballard Designs

]]> 4285 no 357: Power Talk Friday: Heather McManus: Where Are They Now? Introducing Collaborate to Win http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/357-power-talk-friday-heather-mcmanus-where-are-they-now-introducing-collaborate-to-win Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we're having a Where Are They Now episode, featuring Heather Mc Manus, our very first guest ever on the show! Heather is an award-winning designer from New Jersey and the principal of Artistry Interiors. She is also the author of the book Love Where You Live- Dream Homes Made Real, which is available on Amazon. On the show today Heather will be telling us all about her latest venture, Collaborate To Win, a buying group that she started for you, her designer colleagues, to become stronger together and make more profit through having access to products that may normally have been unavailable to you due to buy-in minimums and yearly volume quotas. Join us on the show today to hear Heather explain her really interesting idea! Heather started Artistry Interiors in 2012, after having worked in the design industry for a decade. Her first job, after graduating from the Pratt Institute, was at a high-end workroom where she gained really invaluable experience and learned everything about how quality window treatments and upholstery are made. From there she went on to further broaden her knowledge and expertise about furniture construction and quality through working at both Ethan Allen and Bograd's Fine Furniture. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: Heather's concept of a video tip per day that she discussed in her interview on our very first show. All about Heather's innovative concept, Collaborate To Win, and why it was born. Some of the growing pains that helped Heather grow. Collaborate To Win even works nationally. Dealing with breakages. How the concept actually works. The level of trust that is required for this unique concept. Keeping relationships intact is a key requirement for the group. How the payment for the orders works. Heather is constantly creating educational videos to explain the rules of the game. When an order actually becomes an order. The importance of working systematically. How Heather uses videos to explain her pricing. The constant teaching, mentoring and masterminds that Heather does to assist people with her concept. The cost for the membership of the group. How you will really save money by being a member of the group- one order through the group could cover your entire annual membership buy-in! Why you really need to be responsible to be a member of the group. To learn more about Collaborate To Win, there will be a website up and running by this fall. In the meantime, you can email Heather at collaboratetowin@gmail.com- an email address dedicated specifically for this group. The details that you will need to send to Heather in order to apply to join her group. To meet Heather in person, she will be at Windowworks, in Livingstone New Jersey, for the October Lunch and Learn on October 29th. RSVP via Instagram (@windowworks) Raquel Langworthy will be at Windowworks on September 17th for the September Lunch and Learn. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro #235 #317)  Links: Book - Love Where You Live: Dream Homes Made Real Collaborate to Win - Collaborate To Win  Collaborate to Win Facebook page Facebook -  Artistry Interiors LLC Instagram - Artistry Interiors  Website - Artistry Interiors  Fri, 07 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we're having a Where Are They Now episode, featuring Heather Mc Manus, our very first guest ever on the show! Heather is an award-winning designer from New Jersey and the principal of Artistry Interiors. She... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we're having a Where Are They Now episode, featuring Heather Mc Manus, our very first guest ever on the show! Heather is an award-winning designer from New Jersey and the principal of Artistry Interiors. She is also the author of the book Love Where You Live- Dream Homes Made Real, which is available on Amazon. On the show today Heather will be telling us all about her latest venture, Collaborate To Win, a buying group that she started for you, her designer colleagues, to become stronger together and make more profit through having access to products that may normally have been unavailable to you due to buy-in minimums and yearly volume quotas. Join us on the show today to hear Heather explain her really interesting idea! Heather started Artistry Interiors in 2012, after having worked in the design industry for a decade. Her first job, after graduating from the Pratt Institute, was at a high-end workroom where she gained really invaluable experience and learned everything about how quality window treatments and upholstery are made. From there she went on to further broaden her knowledge and expertise about furniture construction and quality through working at both Ethan Allen and Bograd's Fine Furniture. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: Heather's concept of a video tip per day that she discussed in her interview on our very first show. All about Heather's innovative concept, Collaborate To Win, and why it was born. Some of the growing pains that helped Heather grow. Collaborate To Win even works nationally. Dealing with breakages. How the concept actually works. The level of trust that is required for this unique concept. Keeping relationships intact is a key requirement for the group. How the payment for the orders works. Heather is constantly creating educational videos to explain the rules of the game. When an order actually becomes an order. The importance of working systematically. How Heather uses videos to explain her pricing. The constant teaching, mentoring and masterminds that Heather does to assist people with her concept. The cost for the membership of the group. How you will really save money by being a member of the group- one order through the group could cover your entire annual membership buy-in! Why you really need to be responsible to be a member of the group. To learn more about Collaborate To Win, there will be a website up and running by this fall. In the meantime, you can email Heather at collaboratetowin@gmail.com- an email address dedicated specifically for this group. The details that you will need to send to Heather in order to apply to join her group. To meet Heather in person, she will be at Windowworks, in Livingstone New Jersey, for the October Lunch and Learn on October 29th. RSVP via Instagram (@windowworks) Raquel Langworthy will be at Windowworks on September 17th for the September Lunch and Learn. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro #235 #317)  Links: Book - Love Where You Live: Dream Homes Made Real Collaborate to Win - Collaborate To Win  Collaborate to Win Facebook page Facebook -  Artistry Interiors LLC Instagram - Artistry Interiors  Website - Artistry Interiors  Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we're having a Where Are They Now episode, featuring Heather Mc Manus, our very first guest ever on the show! Heather is an award-winning designer from New Jersey and the principal of Artistry Interiors. She is also the author of the book Love Where You Live- Dream Homes Made Real, which is available on Amazon. On the show today Heather will be telling us all about her latest venture, Collaborate To Win, a buying group that she started for you, her designer colleagues, to become stronger together and make more profit through having access to products that may normally have been unavailable to you due to buy-in minimums and yearly volume quotas. Join us on the show today to hear Heather explain her really interesting idea!

Heather started Artistry Interiors in 2012, after having worked in the design industry for a decade. Her first job, after graduating from the Pratt Institute, was at a high-end workroom where she gained really invaluable experience and learned everything about how quality window treatments and upholstery are made. From there she went on to further broaden her knowledge and expertise about furniture construction and quality through working at both Ethan Allen and Bograd's Fine Furniture. Listen in today to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • Heather's concept of a video tip per day that she discussed in her interview on our very first show.
  • All about Heather's innovative concept, Collaborate To Win, and why it was born.
  • Some of the growing pains that helped Heather grow.
  • Collaborate To Win even works nationally.
  • Dealing with breakages.
  • How the concept actually works.
  • The level of trust that is required for this unique concept.
  • Keeping relationships intact is a key requirement for the group.
  • How the payment for the orders works.
  • Heather is constantly creating educational videos to explain the rules of the game.
  • When an order actually becomes an order.
  • The importance of working systematically.
  • How Heather uses videos to explain her pricing.
  • The constant teaching, mentoring and masterminds that Heather does to assist people with her concept.
  • The cost for the membership of the group.
  • How you will really save money by being a member of the group- one order through the group could cover your entire annual membership buy-in!
  • Why you really need to be responsible to be a member of the group.
  • To learn more about Collaborate To Win, there will be a website up and running by this fall. In the meantime, you can email Heather at collaboratetowin@gmail.com- an email address dedicated specifically for this group.
  • The details that you will need to send to Heather in order to apply to join her group.
  • To meet Heather in person, she will be at Windowworks, in Livingstone New Jersey, for the October Lunch and Learn on October 29th. RSVP via Instagram (@windowworks)

Raquel Langworthy will be at Windowworks on September 17th for the September Lunch and Learn.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro #235 #317)

 Links:

Book - Love Where You Live: Dream Homes Made Real Collaborate to Win - Collaborate To Win  Collaborate to Win Facebook page Facebook -  Artistry Interiors LLC Instagram - Artistry Interiors  Website - Artistry Interiors ]]> 3865 no 356: Vincere: Insights on Designing for the Luxury Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/356-vincere-insights-on-designing-for-the-luxury-market Welcome to the show! Today we are very happy to introduce you to Vincere, an influential, Chicago-based, full-service interior design firm,  founded in 2007 by Micheal Stornello and Tom Konopiots. Vincere is a business fully committed to the principals of precision, proportion, scale, and form. They have completed projects throughout the Midwest, California, and Europe and their wide range of enterprises include everything from the pre-construction stage, through the interior design phase, to the acquisition and placement of the art and accessories. The team at Vincere firmly believe that the key to success lies in careful listening and clear communication. Join us on the show today to find out what Michael and Tom have to share with you. Both Tom and Michael have very strong business backgrounds. Michael used to be in the television industry where he served as executive vice president, development, for King World Productions (now CBS Television Distribution). Tom was previously COO and CEO of two futures brokerage companies. Listen in today to find out how their previous business experience has informed the way that they run their full-luxury interior design business. Show highlights: Some background on Mike and Tom's previous careers. How their shared passion brought them to start an interior design business. How they learned their design skill set through their real-life experience. Some of the mistakes they made and lessons they learned through trial and error. Creating impact for their clients and closing deals with three-dimensional floor plans. The way that they work with their vendors and contractors using 3-D models. The importance of being well-prepared and paying close attention to detail. All their clients are really value-conscious, regardless of their wealth. Their approach to addressing budget-related issues with their clients. The way that technology helps them to overcome certain client issues. Managing a million-dollar budget so that it looks like a million-and-a-half-dollar budget. They are fully transparent with their clients, in terms of the cost of things. In certain circumstances, it's necessary to tell the client that they're not the right fit. Avoiding traps and pitfalls with clients and adding the appropriate markup. Creating the kind of contract that can be put away and not thought about again. Finding the right balance within a partnership. Links: Website - Vincere Facebook - Vincere Instagram - Vincere Interiors Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Sandra Espinet #287 Fred Berns #289 Chris Raney #345 Tue, 04 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today we are very happy to introduce you to Vincere, an influential, Chicago-based, full-service interior design firm,  founded in 2007 by Micheal Stornello and Tom Konopiots. Vincere is a business fully committed to the... Welcome to the show! Today we are very happy to introduce you to Vincere, an influential, Chicago-based, full-service interior design firm,  founded in 2007 by Micheal Stornello and Tom Konopiots. Vincere is a business fully committed to the principals of precision, proportion, scale, and form. They have completed projects throughout the Midwest, California, and Europe and their wide range of enterprises include everything from the pre-construction stage, through the interior design phase, to the acquisition and placement of the art and accessories. The team at Vincere firmly believe that the key to success lies in careful listening and clear communication. Join us on the show today to find out what Michael and Tom have to share with you. Both Tom and Michael have very strong business backgrounds. Michael used to be in the television industry where he served as executive vice president, development, for King World Productions (now CBS Television Distribution). Tom was previously COO and CEO of two futures brokerage companies. Listen in today to find out how their previous business experience has informed the way that they run their full-luxury interior design business. Show highlights: Some background on Mike and Tom's previous careers. How their shared passion brought them to start an interior design business. How they learned their design skill set through their real-life experience. Some of the mistakes they made and lessons they learned through trial and error. Creating impact for their clients and closing deals with three-dimensional floor plans. The way that they work with their vendors and contractors using 3-D models. The importance of being well-prepared and paying close attention to detail. All their clients are really value-conscious, regardless of their wealth. Their approach to addressing budget-related issues with their clients. The way that technology helps them to overcome certain client issues. Managing a million-dollar budget so that it looks like a million-and-a-half-dollar budget. They are fully transparent with their clients, in terms of the cost of things. In certain circumstances, it's necessary to tell the client that they're not the right fit. Avoiding traps and pitfalls with clients and adding the appropriate markup. Creating the kind of contract that can be put away and not thought about again. Finding the right balance within a partnership. Links: Website - Vincere Facebook - Vincere Instagram - Vincere Interiors Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Sandra Espinet #287 Fred Berns #289 Chris Raney #345 Welcome to the show! Today we are very happy to introduce you to Vincere, an influential, Chicago-based, full-service interior design firm,  founded in 2007 by Micheal Stornello and Tom Konopiots. Vincere is a business fully committed to the principals of precision, proportion, scale, and form. They have completed projects throughout the Midwest, California, and Europe and their wide range of enterprises include everything from the pre-construction stage, through the interior design phase, to the acquisition and placement of the art and accessories. The team at Vincere firmly believe that the key to success lies in careful listening and clear communication. Join us on the show today to find out what Michael and Tom have to share with you.

Both Tom and Michael have very strong business backgrounds. Michael used to be in the television industry where he served as executive vice president, development, for King World Productions (now CBS Television Distribution). Tom was previously COO and CEO of two futures brokerage companies. Listen in today to find out how their previous business experience has informed the way that they run their full-luxury interior design business.

Show highlights:

  • Some background on Mike and Tom's previous careers.
  • How their shared passion brought them to start an interior design business.
  • How they learned their design skill set through their real-life experience.
  • Some of the mistakes they made and lessons they learned through trial and error.
  • Creating impact for their clients and closing deals with three-dimensional floor plans.
  • The way that they work with their vendors and contractors using 3-D models.
  • The importance of being well-prepared and paying close attention to detail.
  • All their clients are really value-conscious, regardless of their wealth.
  • Their approach to addressing budget-related issues with their clients.
  • The way that technology helps them to overcome certain client issues.
  • Managing a million-dollar budget so that it looks like a million-and-a-half-dollar budget.
  • They are fully transparent with their clients, in terms of the cost of things.
  • In certain circumstances, it's necessary to tell the client that they're not the right fit.
  • Avoiding traps and pitfalls with clients and adding the appropriate markup.
  • Creating the kind of contract that can be put away and not thought about again.
  • Finding the right balance within a partnership.

Links:

Website - Vincere

Facebook - Vincere

Instagram - Vincere Interiors

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

Sandra Espinet #287

Fred Berns #289

Chris Raney #345

]]> 3802 no 355: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara: Crush The 4th Quarter Of 2018 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/355-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-crush-the-4th-quarter-of-2018 Are you ready to crush the last quarter of 2018? And are you really ready to make this the very best quarter of this year? Well, if you're the rare designer who is deciding to act, rather than to stay with the status quo, and to do, rather than wish, today's show is just for you! We have two very specific opportunities for you, and two different ways that we're making it possible for you to be the best you can be. Listen in now to find out how to take your game to the next level. The first opportunity is the second stop on the Power Talk Friday Tour. (It's happening on Saturday 13th October 2018 in High Point, North Carolina.) For the High Point tour, Luann has gathered some of the new Power Talk Friday experts including Claire Jefford (#325 and #237), Stacey Brown Randall (#93) and Michele Williams (#137 and #180). The second opportunity is the two masterminds that Luann is offering, Foundation and Transition. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: On the tour, Claire will be talking about managing client expectations, something fundamental to running a successful project. Pinpointing the challenges that tend to come up with new projects. Most problems with new projects are rooted in something that wasn't clear in the initial agreement. Claire will walk you through the best practices for setting up your project to succeed. Stacey has proven techniques for building your pipeline through referrals- without asking your clients for them. Stacey is a business coach with a recently-launched podcast called Roadmap To Grow Your Business. Stacey will teach you methods to attract new clients into your pipeline- immediately. Michele Williams, principal of Scarlet Thread Consulting, will also be with Luann on the tour. Michele coaches designers and window-treatment professionals on the financial methods and systems for running a profitable business. Michele is about to launch her new podcast, Profit Is A Choice. Michele is also a certified Profit First coach. What you have to understand, in order to really be successful with your business. Why you really need to come to the High Point Tour. How Luann will use her superpower to help you. How the High Point Tour will be structured. What you will gain from attending the tour. The price for the tour and what it includes. Having the chance to get to know the awesome sponsors. About the Foundations and Transitions Masterminds. Foundations is group coaching for new designers. What you will learn in the Foundations Mastermind. The Transitions Mastermind is for the more seasoned designer. What you will get from the Transitions Mastermind. Links: Go to Luann's website Luann Nigara to get the early episodes. To find out more about the tour go to Luann Nigara and click on the 'coaching' tab. The landing page for the masterminds: Luann Nigara Sponsors: The Power Talk Friday Tour is sponsored by MyDoma Studios, Revel Woods, and Bijou Wall Coverings. Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, will be coming out in February of 2019.  This book is for the designer who wants to be intentionally focused, efficient and profitable. Luann has gathered 12 of the Power talk Friday experts and together they have created the go-to book for you to get detailed explanations, advice, and clarity about the ideas and concepts that have been discussed on the podcast, over the past two-and-a-half years. Fri, 31 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you ready to crush the last quarter of 2018? And are you really ready to make this the very best quarter of this year? Well, if you're the rare designer who is deciding to act, rather than to stay with the status quo, and to do, rather than wish,... Are you ready to crush the last quarter of 2018? And are you really ready to make this the very best quarter of this year? Well, if you're the rare designer who is deciding to act, rather than to stay with the status quo, and to do, rather than wish, today's show is just for you! We have two very specific opportunities for you, and two different ways that we're making it possible for you to be the best you can be. Listen in now to find out how to take your game to the next level. The first opportunity is the second stop on the Power Talk Friday Tour. (It's happening on Saturday 13th October 2018 in High Point, North Carolina.) For the High Point tour, Luann has gathered some of the new Power Talk Friday experts including Claire Jefford (#325 and #237), Stacey Brown Randall (#93) and Michele Williams (#137 and #180). The second opportunity is the two masterminds that Luann is offering, Foundation and Transition. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: On the tour, Claire will be talking about managing client expectations, something fundamental to running a successful project. Pinpointing the challenges that tend to come up with new projects. Most problems with new projects are rooted in something that wasn't clear in the initial agreement. Claire will walk you through the best practices for setting up your project to succeed. Stacey has proven techniques for building your pipeline through referrals- without asking your clients for them. Stacey is a business coach with a recently-launched podcast called Roadmap To Grow Your Business. Stacey will teach you methods to attract new clients into your pipeline- immediately. Michele Williams, principal of Scarlet Thread Consulting, will also be with Luann on the tour. Michele coaches designers and window-treatment professionals on the financial methods and systems for running a profitable business. Michele is about to launch her new podcast, Profit Is A Choice. Michele is also a certified Profit First coach. What you have to understand, in order to really be successful with your business. Why you really need to come to the High Point Tour. How Luann will use her superpower to help you. How the High Point Tour will be structured. What you will gain from attending the tour. The price for the tour and what it includes. Having the chance to get to know the awesome sponsors. About the Foundations and Transitions Masterminds. Foundations is group coaching for new designers. What you will learn in the Foundations Mastermind. The Transitions Mastermind is for the more seasoned designer. What you will get from the Transitions Mastermind. Links: Go to Luann's website Luann Nigara to get the early episodes. To find out more about the tour go to Luann Nigara and click on the 'coaching' tab. The landing page for the masterminds: Luann Nigara Sponsors: The Power Talk Friday Tour is sponsored by MyDoma Studios, Revel Woods, and Bijou Wall Coverings. Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, will be coming out in February of 2019.  This book is for the designer who wants to be intentionally focused, efficient and profitable. Luann has gathered 12 of the Power talk Friday experts and together they have created the go-to book for you to get detailed explanations, advice, and clarity about the ideas and concepts that have been discussed on the podcast, over the past two-and-a-half years. Are you ready to crush the last quarter of 2018? And are you really ready to make this the very best quarter of this year? Well, if you're the rare designer who is deciding to act, rather than to stay with the status quo, and to do, rather than wish, today's show is just for you! We have two very specific opportunities for you, and two different ways that we're making it possible for you to be the best you can be. Listen in now to find out how to take your game to the next level.

The first opportunity is the second stop on the Power Talk Friday Tour. (It's happening on Saturday 13th October 2018 in High Point, North Carolina.) For the High Point tour, Luann has gathered some of the new Power Talk Friday experts including Claire Jefford (#325 and #237), Stacey Brown Randall (#93) and Michele Williams (#137 and #180). The second opportunity is the two masterminds that Luann is offering, Foundation and Transition. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • On the tour, Claire will be talking about managing client expectations, something fundamental to running a successful project.
  • Pinpointing the challenges that tend to come up with new projects.
  • Most problems with new projects are rooted in something that wasn't clear in the initial agreement.
  • Claire will walk you through the best practices for setting up your project to succeed.
  • Stacey has proven techniques for building your pipeline through referrals- without asking your clients for them.
  • Stacey is a business coach with a recently-launched podcast called Roadmap To Grow Your Business.
  • Stacey will teach you methods to attract new clients into your pipeline- immediately.
  • Michele Williams, principal of Scarlet Thread Consulting, will also be with Luann on the tour.
  • Michele coaches designers and window-treatment professionals on the financial methods and systems for running a profitable business.
  • Michele is about to launch her new podcast, Profit Is A Choice.
  • Michele is also a certified Profit First coach.
  • What you have to understand, in order to really be successful with your business.
  • Why you really need to come to the High Point Tour.
  • How Luann will use her superpower to help you.
  • How the High Point Tour will be structured.
  • What you will gain from attending the tour.
  • The price for the tour and what it includes.
  • Having the chance to get to know the awesome sponsors.
  • About the Foundations and Transitions Masterminds.
  • Foundations is group coaching for new designers.
  • What you will learn in the Foundations Mastermind.
  • The Transitions Mastermind is for the more seasoned designer.
  • What you will get from the Transitions Mastermind.

Links:

Go to Luann's website Luann Nigara to get the early episodes.

To find out more about the tour go to Luann Nigara and click on the 'coaching' tab.

The landing page for the masterminds: Luann Nigara

Sponsors: The Power Talk Friday Tour is sponsored by MyDoma Studios, Revel Woods, and Bijou Wall Coverings.

Luann's second book, The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business, will be coming out in February of 2019.  This book is for the designer who wants to be intentionally focused, efficient and profitable. Luann has gathered 12 of the Power talk Friday experts and together they have created the go-to book for you to get detailed explanations, advice, and clarity about the ideas and concepts that have been discussed on the podcast, over the past two-and-a-half years.

]]> 1356 no 354: Dina Holland: Blogging, Instagram, and Business Strategies http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/354-dina-holland-blogging-instagram-and-business-strategies Welcome! We have Dina Holland with us on the show today. And she's someone you may already know from her Instagram stories, with her really down-to-earth, likable and engaging approach. On today's show, we talk to Dina about the importance of finding your personal voice and the value of being real and authentic in everything you do- with your blog, your social media, and your website. Listen in today to find out how this can really help you to find clients who are just the right fit for you.  Dina is the founder and principal of Dina Holland Interiors, but you might know her through her blog and Instagram account name, Honey, and Fitz.  It all started with a blog about eight years ago when Dina chronicled her own adventures in home decor and DIY projects. What started out as just a personal creative outlet quickly grew into a following of thousands with readers tuning in to see her own projects and those for neighbors and friends. Through word of mouth and the power of social media, Dina has grown her business far beyond the reaches of her blog and turned it into a successful full-service interior design firm with clients all over the country. Listen in today to find out what Dina has to share. Show highlights: How Dina's authentic voice on her website is a pre-qualifier to the clients that are reaching out to her. The importance of being true to yourself. The list of questions that Dina has on her website. How Dina's questions help potential clients to find just the kind of help that they're looking for. The really clever content to be found on Dina's website. Why Dina has put pricing on her website. The really great copy on Dina's website. How Dina learned all she knows about design. How Dina started out as an e-designer. Dina's shift towards Instagram. How, as a designer, to start charging friends and acquaintances. The importance of having really good photos. Charging appropriately for the managing, sourcing, ordering, and shipping of products. Why charging an hourly rate is simply not enough. How Dina managed to figure out the next level of trade sources. How Dina managed to do floor plans when she first started out without any training. How Dina dealt with her branding- from Honey and Fitz to Dina Holland Interiors. Dina is getting ready to launch a small online shop. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Gail Davis #47 Carly Waters #211 Links: Website - Dina Holland Interiors Shop (launching later this summer) - Dina Holland Interiors Instagram - @HoneyandFitz To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register. Tue, 28 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We have Dina Holland with us on the show today. And she's someone you may already know from her Instagram stories, with her really down-to-earth, likable and engaging approach. On today's show, we talk to Dina about the importance of finding... Welcome! We have Dina Holland with us on the show today. And she's someone you may already know from her Instagram stories, with her really down-to-earth, likable and engaging approach. On today's show, we talk to Dina about the importance of finding your personal voice and the value of being real and authentic in everything you do- with your blog, your social media, and your website. Listen in today to find out how this can really help you to find clients who are just the right fit for you.  Dina is the founder and principal of Dina Holland Interiors, but you might know her through her blog and Instagram account name, Honey, and Fitz.  It all started with a blog about eight years ago when Dina chronicled her own adventures in home decor and DIY projects. What started out as just a personal creative outlet quickly grew into a following of thousands with readers tuning in to see her own projects and those for neighbors and friends. Through word of mouth and the power of social media, Dina has grown her business far beyond the reaches of her blog and turned it into a successful full-service interior design firm with clients all over the country. Listen in today to find out what Dina has to share. Show highlights: How Dina's authentic voice on her website is a pre-qualifier to the clients that are reaching out to her. The importance of being true to yourself. The list of questions that Dina has on her website. How Dina's questions help potential clients to find just the kind of help that they're looking for. The really clever content to be found on Dina's website. Why Dina has put pricing on her website. The really great copy on Dina's website. How Dina learned all she knows about design. How Dina started out as an e-designer. Dina's shift towards Instagram. How, as a designer, to start charging friends and acquaintances. The importance of having really good photos. Charging appropriately for the managing, sourcing, ordering, and shipping of products. Why charging an hourly rate is simply not enough. How Dina managed to figure out the next level of trade sources. How Dina managed to do floor plans when she first started out without any training. How Dina dealt with her branding- from Honey and Fitz to Dina Holland Interiors. Dina is getting ready to launch a small online shop. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Gail Davis #47 Carly Waters #211 Links: Website - Dina Holland Interiors Shop (launching later this summer) - Dina Holland Interiors Instagram - @HoneyandFitz To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register. Welcome! We have Dina Holland with us on the show today. And she's someone you may already know from her Instagram stories, with her really down-to-earth, likable and engaging approach. On today's show, we talk to Dina about the importance of finding your personal voice and the value of being real and authentic in everything you do- with your blog, your social media, and your website. Listen in today to find out how this can really help you to find clients who are just the right fit for you. 

Dina is the founder and principal of Dina Holland Interiors, but you might know her through her blog and Instagram account name, Honey, and Fitz.  It all started with a blog about eight years ago when Dina chronicled her own adventures in home decor and DIY projects. What started out as just a personal creative outlet quickly grew into a following of thousands with readers tuning in to see her own projects and those for neighbors and friends. Through word of mouth and the power of social media, Dina has grown her business far beyond the reaches of her blog and turned it into a successful full-service interior design firm with clients all over the country. Listen in today to find out what Dina has to share.

Show highlights:

  • How Dina's authentic voice on her website is a pre-qualifier to the clients that are reaching out to her.
  • The importance of being true to yourself.
  • The list of questions that Dina has on her website.
  • How Dina's questions help potential clients to find just the kind of help that they're looking for.
  • The really clever content to be found on Dina's website.
  • Why Dina has put pricing on her website.
  • The really great copy on Dina's website.
  • How Dina learned all she knows about design.
  • How Dina started out as an e-designer.
  • Dina's shift towards Instagram.
  • How, as a designer, to start charging friends and acquaintances.
  • The importance of having really good photos.
  • Charging appropriately for the managing, sourcing, ordering, and shipping of products.
  • Why charging an hourly rate is simply not enough.
  • How Dina managed to figure out the next level of trade sources.
  • How Dina managed to do floor plans when she first started out without any training.
  • How Dina dealt with her branding- from Honey and Fitz to Dina Holland Interiors.
  • Dina is getting ready to launch a small online shop.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Gail Davis #47

Carly Waters #211

Links:

Website - Dina Holland Interiors

Shop (launching later this summer) - Dina Holland Interiors

Instagram - @HoneyandFitz

To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register.

]]> 4108 no 353: Power Talk Friday: Virginia Muzquiz: The Referral Diva on Intentional Networking http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/353-power-talk-friday-virginia-muzquiz-the-referral-diva-on-intentional-networking Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! You're in for a huge treat today! We have Virginia Muzquiz, the Referral Diva, on the show with us! Virginia is a connector with a real passion for teaching people how to cultivate referrals. And on the show today she explains how she teaches people to be referral-ready so that they can go out and get the referrals they need to grow their businesses. Listen in to find out more. Virginia is the owner and chief connection officer at Master Connectors Incorporated and she is the executive director of B & I in America. She has over thirty years of experience in teaching six-figure companies and solopreneurs how to build a sustainable and profitable business. Virginia believes that referrals are built out of relationships- and that requires people to like and trust you. This is why she really knows that learning how to create and leverage social capital is crucial in building businesses. Her numbers don't lie and Virginia's methods grew the contract service division of a nationally known education franchise from zero to 2.5 million dollars specifically, and only, by word-of-mouth. Today Virginia shows more than 1400 entrepreneurs how to redirect the time and money spent in non-productive networking into leveraged word-of-mouth strategies that produce measurable improvements in their ROI. Virginia is also the host of the Passion + Purpose = IMPACT podcast. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Virginia explains where she starts when teaching people how to be referral ready. Simply showing up with your skill-set, as a designer, is not enough. The key to creating really effective referrals. The gift that you need to bring along to your potential client. The importance of being really clear. Getting your clients to align with your core values. Knowing who you are and what you love. Giving to givers who give. How Virginia helps business owners to discover their own, unique core values. The importance of finding what you're really passionate about. Virginia's four-step plan to succeeding at networking events. What you need to read and listen to, in order to really be prepared for networking events. The right way to get someone's business card. Knowing what your niche is so that you can connect with your tribe. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Article.com #301 Links: LinkedIn: Virginia Muzquiz Website: Master Connectors Twitter: The Referral Diva Facebook: Master Connectors To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register. To get the info about Luann's mastermind go to Luann Nigara and click on the coaching tab. Fri, 24 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! You're in for a huge treat today! We have Virginia Muzquiz, the Referral Diva, on the show with us! Virginia is a connector with a real passion for teaching people how to cultivate referrals. And on the show today... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! You're in for a huge treat today! We have Virginia Muzquiz, the Referral Diva, on the show with us! Virginia is a connector with a real passion for teaching people how to cultivate referrals. And on the show today she explains how she teaches people to be referral-ready so that they can go out and get the referrals they need to grow their businesses. Listen in to find out more. Virginia is the owner and chief connection officer at Master Connectors Incorporated and she is the executive director of B & I in America. She has over thirty years of experience in teaching six-figure companies and solopreneurs how to build a sustainable and profitable business. Virginia believes that referrals are built out of relationships- and that requires people to like and trust you. This is why she really knows that learning how to create and leverage social capital is crucial in building businesses. Her numbers don't lie and Virginia's methods grew the contract service division of a nationally known education franchise from zero to 2.5 million dollars specifically, and only, by word-of-mouth. Today Virginia shows more than 1400 entrepreneurs how to redirect the time and money spent in non-productive networking into leveraged word-of-mouth strategies that produce measurable improvements in their ROI. Virginia is also the host of the Passion + Purpose = IMPACT podcast. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Virginia explains where she starts when teaching people how to be referral ready. Simply showing up with your skill-set, as a designer, is not enough. The key to creating really effective referrals. The gift that you need to bring along to your potential client. The importance of being really clear. Getting your clients to align with your core values. Knowing who you are and what you love. Giving to givers who give. How Virginia helps business owners to discover their own, unique core values. The importance of finding what you're really passionate about. Virginia's four-step plan to succeeding at networking events. What you need to read and listen to, in order to really be prepared for networking events. The right way to get someone's business card. Knowing what your niche is so that you can connect with your tribe. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Article.com #301 Links: LinkedIn: Virginia Muzquiz Website: Master Connectors Twitter: The Referral Diva Facebook: Master Connectors To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register. To get the info about Luann's mastermind go to Luann Nigara and click on the coaching tab. Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! You're in for a huge treat today! We have Virginia Muzquiz, the Referral Diva, on the show with us! Virginia is a connector with a real passion for teaching people how to cultivate referrals. And on the show today she explains how she teaches people to be referral-ready so that they can go out and get the referrals they need to grow their businesses. Listen in to find out more.

Virginia is the owner and chief connection officer at Master Connectors Incorporated and she is the executive director of B & I in America. She has over thirty years of experience in teaching six-figure companies and solopreneurs how to build a sustainable and profitable business.

Virginia believes that referrals are built out of relationships- and that requires people to like and trust you. This is why she really knows that learning how to create and leverage social capital is crucial in building businesses. Her numbers don't lie and Virginia's methods grew the contract service division of a nationally known education franchise from zero to 2.5 million dollars specifically, and only, by word-of-mouth. Today Virginia shows more than 1400 entrepreneurs how to redirect the time and money spent in non-productive networking into leveraged word-of-mouth strategies that produce measurable improvements in their ROI. Virginia is also the host of the Passion + Purpose = IMPACT podcast. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Virginia explains where she starts when teaching people how to be referral ready.
  • Simply showing up with your skill-set, as a designer, is not enough.
  • The key to creating really effective referrals.
  • The gift that you need to bring along to your potential client.
  • The importance of being really clear.
  • Getting your clients to align with your core values.
  • Knowing who you are and what you love.
  • Giving to givers who give.
  • How Virginia helps business owners to discover their own, unique core values.
  • The importance of finding what you're really passionate about.
  • Virginia's four-step plan to succeeding at networking events.
  • What you need to read and listen to, in order to really be prepared for networking events.
  • The right way to get someone's business card.
  • Knowing what your niche is so that you can connect with your tribe.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Article.com #301

Links:

LinkedIn: Virginia Muzquiz

Website: Master Connectors

Twitter: The Referral Diva

Facebook: Master Connectors

To become a trade member of Article.com go to Well Designed Article to register.

To get the info about Luann's mastermind go to Luann Nigara and click on the coaching tab.

]]> 3403 no 352: Shannon Claire: Strategies for Growing Your Instagram Following http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/352-shannon-claire-strategies-for-growing-your-instagram-following Welcome to today's show. We have Shannon Claire, a designer that Luann discovered on Instagram, with us on the show today. Shannon has a really beautiful Instagram feed and on the show today she will be talking about it and she will also share some tips from the perspective of someone whose career is not an Instagram marketer but has utilized the tool in a really effective way. Shannon Claire is an interior designer and stylist based in Washington, DC, specializing in creating beautiful spaces so that your home feels uniquely and comfortably you, but elevated. Shannon Claire offers many services that include full-service interior design by the hour, e-design projects for clients who do not live locally but still need design help, and event and space styling. She has been featured in HGTV Magazine, Domino, The Washington Post,  Buzzfeed, The Everygirl, Glitter Guide, The Charlotte Observer, CNN, Forbes, Style Me Pretty, House Beautiful Magazine, and Style At Home Magazine. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: The first thing to think about, as an interior designer, if you want to really start taking your Instagram seriously. It can be hard to switch from using Instagram as a personal, or social tool, to use it as something that can funnel back into your business. The importance of identifying what your particular brand looks like on paper, or in a photo. Shannon explains why she only shares things on Instagram that fit into the specific aesthetic that she has created there- like pink walls. The way that Shannon's before and after pictures really draw you in. Shannon discusses her 'wake-up point'. The benefits that she has seen from really dedicating herself to her particular style and aesthetic- and the kind of content that she was posting. All the pictures on Shannon's feed are from her own home or her own projects. The way that Luann's Instagram feed has changed recently. The things that will really make your Instagram feed uniquely yours. Choosing your Instagram photos intentionally. The way that Shannon uses visual landmarks to let people know that she is in DC. Some things that you can do to reach out to the people in your area, to let them know where you are. Some information about the way that Instagram's algorithms operate. The importance of having an engaged following on Instagram and building a community. Effectively using captions on your photos. Learning to be authentically yourself! Ways to get your work featured out there. What comment pods are-and how to use them. Links: Instagram - @shannonclaire Blog - Shannon Claire Interiors Pinterest - Shannon Claire Interiors Shannon's website: Shannon Claire Interiors Tue, 21 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show. We have Shannon Claire, a designer that Luann discovered on Instagram, with us on the show today. Shannon has a really beautiful Instagram feed and on the show today she will be talking about it and she will also share some... Welcome to today's show. We have Shannon Claire, a designer that Luann discovered on Instagram, with us on the show today. Shannon has a really beautiful Instagram feed and on the show today she will be talking about it and she will also share some tips from the perspective of someone whose career is not an Instagram marketer but has utilized the tool in a really effective way. Shannon Claire is an interior designer and stylist based in Washington, DC, specializing in creating beautiful spaces so that your home feels uniquely and comfortably you, but elevated. Shannon Claire offers many services that include full-service interior design by the hour, e-design projects for clients who do not live locally but still need design help, and event and space styling. She has been featured in HGTV Magazine, Domino, The Washington Post,  Buzzfeed, The Everygirl, Glitter Guide, The Charlotte Observer, CNN, Forbes, Style Me Pretty, House Beautiful Magazine, and Style At Home Magazine. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: The first thing to think about, as an interior designer, if you want to really start taking your Instagram seriously. It can be hard to switch from using Instagram as a personal, or social tool, to use it as something that can funnel back into your business. The importance of identifying what your particular brand looks like on paper, or in a photo. Shannon explains why she only shares things on Instagram that fit into the specific aesthetic that she has created there- like pink walls. The way that Shannon's before and after pictures really draw you in. Shannon discusses her 'wake-up point'. The benefits that she has seen from really dedicating herself to her particular style and aesthetic- and the kind of content that she was posting. All the pictures on Shannon's feed are from her own home or her own projects. The way that Luann's Instagram feed has changed recently. The things that will really make your Instagram feed uniquely yours. Choosing your Instagram photos intentionally. The way that Shannon uses visual landmarks to let people know that she is in DC. Some things that you can do to reach out to the people in your area, to let them know where you are. Some information about the way that Instagram's algorithms operate. The importance of having an engaged following on Instagram and building a community. Effectively using captions on your photos. Learning to be authentically yourself! Ways to get your work featured out there. What comment pods are-and how to use them. Links: Instagram - @shannonclaire Blog - Shannon Claire Interiors Pinterest - Shannon Claire Interiors Shannon's website: Shannon Claire Interiors Welcome to today's show. We have Shannon Claire, a designer that Luann discovered on Instagram, with us on the show today. Shannon has a really beautiful Instagram feed and on the show today she will be talking about it and she will also share some tips from the perspective of someone whose career is not an Instagram marketer but has utilized the tool in a really effective way.

Shannon Claire is an interior designer and stylist based in Washington, DC, specializing in

creating beautiful spaces so that your home feels uniquely and comfortably you, but elevated. Shannon Claire offers many services that include full-service interior design by the hour, e-design projects for clients who do not live locally but still need design help, and event and space styling. She has been featured in HGTV Magazine, Domino, The Washington Post,  Buzzfeed, The Everygirl, Glitter Guide, The Charlotte Observer, CNN, Forbes, Style Me Pretty, House Beautiful Magazine, and Style At Home Magazine. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • The first thing to think about, as an interior designer, if you want to really start taking your Instagram seriously.
  • It can be hard to switch from using Instagram as a personal, or social tool, to use it as something that can funnel back into your business.
  • The importance of identifying what your particular brand looks like on paper, or in a photo.
  • Shannon explains why she only shares things on Instagram that fit into the specific aesthetic that she has created there- like pink walls.
  • The way that Shannon's before and after pictures really draw you in.
  • Shannon discusses her 'wake-up point'.
  • The benefits that she has seen from really dedicating herself to her particular style and aesthetic- and the kind of content that she was posting.
  • All the pictures on Shannon's feed are from her own home or her own projects.
  • The way that Luann's Instagram feed has changed recently.
  • The things that will really make your Instagram feed uniquely yours.
  • Choosing your Instagram photos intentionally.
  • The way that Shannon uses visual landmarks to let people know that she is in DC.
  • Some things that you can do to reach out to the people in your area, to let them know where you are.
  • Some information about the way that Instagram's algorithms operate.
  • The importance of having an engaged following on Instagram and building a community.
  • Effectively using captions on your photos.
  • Learning to be authentically yourself!
  • Ways to get your work featured out there.
  • What comment pods are-and how to use them.

Links:

Instagram - @shannonclaire

Blog - Shannon Claire Interiors

Pinterest - Shannon Claire Interiors

Shannon's website: Shannon Claire Interiors

]]> 4329 no 351: Power Talk Friday: Jane Dagmi: Editor in Chief of Designers Today http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/351-power-talk-friday-jane-dagmi-editor-in-chief-of-designers-today Welcome to today's episode. We have Jane Dagni, the new editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine with us on the show today. Jane is a really well-regarded and true professional and today she will be talking to us about her new position as editor-in-chief, her take on the design industry, and also her future plans for the magazine. Listen in today to find out how Jane has really earned her respect in the design community. Jane Dagni became an assistant editor at Country Living Magazine, a B2B magazine for professional interior designers, decorators and related businesses twenty-six years ago. She spent fourteen years at Country Living, where she wrote and produced at least a hundred-and-fifty feature stories and wrote countless columns. For the next eight years, she worked on writing gigs, short projects, and substitute teaching to support her family. Her clients included Benjamin Moore, Bob Vila, the Cottage and Gardens Magazines and Fort Lauderdale Magazine. In 2014 her colleague, Amy Flurry, recommended Jane as a communications manager at a tech startup that was creating a project management sourcing software for small boutique interior design firms. When the company closed Jane was hired as the editorial director at Steel Yard. Then, in December of 2017, Jane became editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine. Jane also participates in industry panels and Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: What makes Designers Today such an awesome magazine. Jane's mission for the magazine. Designers Today is becoming a subscription magazine. Go to Designers Today to sign up. Jane explains what's happening with her magazine at the moment. What makes Designers Today really stand out from other magazines. The thrust of the magazine. Some fun and unexpected things about Designers Today. Building trust is really a big thing for Jane. What Jane looks for in new designers. The way that Jane is changing the structure of the magazine. How Jane plans the issues of the magazine. How Jane would like designers to communicate their journeys with her. Why Jane really doesn't want people to feel intimidated. Bypassing the small talk. The kind of inspiration that Jane gets from vintage magazines. The way that Jane is bringing the magazine back to life. All about Jane's Designer Experience. Go to Designer Experience. Jane's blog is a great way for designers to find out what she's looking for. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Laurel Bern #342 Amy Flurry #323 and #108 Laura Thurman # 272 Judith Taylor #340 Links: Designers Today's website: Designers Today Instagram: Jane Dagmi LinkedIn: Jane Dagmi Twitter: Jane Dagmi Jane's email: jdagni@designerstoday.com Books Mentioned on the Show: Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert Recipe for Press: The Designer Edition by Amy Flurry Recipe for Press by Amy Flurry   Fri, 17 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode. We have Jane Dagni, the new editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine with us on the show today. Jane is a really well-regarded and true professional and today she will be talking to us about her new position as... Welcome to today's episode. We have Jane Dagni, the new editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine with us on the show today. Jane is a really well-regarded and true professional and today she will be talking to us about her new position as editor-in-chief, her take on the design industry, and also her future plans for the magazine. Listen in today to find out how Jane has really earned her respect in the design community. Jane Dagni became an assistant editor at Country Living Magazine, a B2B magazine for professional interior designers, decorators and related businesses twenty-six years ago. She spent fourteen years at Country Living, where she wrote and produced at least a hundred-and-fifty feature stories and wrote countless columns. For the next eight years, she worked on writing gigs, short projects, and substitute teaching to support her family. Her clients included Benjamin Moore, Bob Vila, the Cottage and Gardens Magazines and Fort Lauderdale Magazine. In 2014 her colleague, Amy Flurry, recommended Jane as a communications manager at a tech startup that was creating a project management sourcing software for small boutique interior design firms. When the company closed Jane was hired as the editorial director at Steel Yard. Then, in December of 2017, Jane became editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine. Jane also participates in industry panels and Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: What makes Designers Today such an awesome magazine. Jane's mission for the magazine. Designers Today is becoming a subscription magazine. Go to Designers Today to sign up. Jane explains what's happening with her magazine at the moment. What makes Designers Today really stand out from other magazines. The thrust of the magazine. Some fun and unexpected things about Designers Today. Building trust is really a big thing for Jane. What Jane looks for in new designers. The way that Jane is changing the structure of the magazine. How Jane plans the issues of the magazine. How Jane would like designers to communicate their journeys with her. Why Jane really doesn't want people to feel intimidated. Bypassing the small talk. The kind of inspiration that Jane gets from vintage magazines. The way that Jane is bringing the magazine back to life. All about Jane's Designer Experience. Go to Designer Experience. Jane's blog is a great way for designers to find out what she's looking for. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Laurel Bern #342 Amy Flurry #323 and #108 Laura Thurman # 272 Judith Taylor #340 Links: Designers Today's website: Designers Today Instagram: Jane Dagmi LinkedIn: Jane Dagmi Twitter: Jane Dagmi Jane's email: jdagni@designerstoday.com Books Mentioned on the Show: Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert Recipe for Press: The Designer Edition by Amy Flurry Recipe for Press by Amy Flurry   Welcome to today's episode. We have Jane Dagni, the new editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine with us on the show today. Jane is a really well-regarded and true professional and today she will be talking to us about her new position as editor-in-chief, her take on the design industry, and also her future plans for the magazine. Listen in today to find out how Jane has really earned her respect in the design community.

Jane Dagni became an assistant editor at Country Living Magazine, a B2B magazine for professional interior designers, decorators and related businesses twenty-six years ago. She spent fourteen years at Country Living, where she wrote and produced at least a hundred-and-fifty feature stories and wrote countless columns. For the next eight years, she worked on writing gigs, short projects, and substitute teaching to support her family. Her clients included Benjamin Moore, Bob Vila, the Cottage and Gardens Magazines and Fort Lauderdale Magazine. In 2014 her colleague, Amy Flurry, recommended Jane as a communications manager at a tech startup that was creating a project management sourcing software for small boutique interior design firms. When the company closed Jane was hired as the editorial director at Steel Yard. Then, in December of 2017, Jane became editor-in-chief of Designers Today Magazine. Jane also participates in industry panels and Listen in today to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • What makes Designers Today such an awesome magazine.
  • Jane's mission for the magazine.
  • Designers Today is becoming a subscription magazine. Go to Designers Today to sign up.
  • Jane explains what's happening with her magazine at the moment.
  • What makes Designers Today really stand out from other magazines.
  • The thrust of the magazine.
  • Some fun and unexpected things about Designers Today.
  • Building trust is really a big thing for Jane.
  • What Jane looks for in new designers.
  • The way that Jane is changing the structure of the magazine.
  • How Jane plans the issues of the magazine.
  • How Jane would like designers to communicate their journeys with her.
  • Why Jane really doesn't want people to feel intimidated.
  • Bypassing the small talk.
  • The kind of inspiration that Jane gets from vintage magazines.
  • The way that Jane is bringing the magazine back to life.
  • All about Jane's Designer Experience. Go to Designer Experience.
  • Jane's blog is a great way for designers to find out what she's looking for.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Laurel Bern #342

Amy Flurry #323 and #108

Laura Thurman # 272

Judith Taylor #340

Links:

Designers Today's website: Designers Today

Instagram: Jane Dagmi

LinkedIn: Jane Dagmi

Twitter: Jane Dagmi

Jane's email: jdagni@designerstoday.com

Books Mentioned on the Show:

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

Recipe for Press: The Designer Edition by Amy Flurry

Recipe for Press by Amy Flurry

 

]]> 4158 no 350: Belinda Nihill: Building A Full-Service Design Firm by Niching in Nursery Decor http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/350-belinda-nihill-building-a-full-service-design-firm-by-niching-in-nursery-decor Welcome to the show! We have the pleasure of introducing you to an Australian designer today, Belinda Nihill, the principal of Nest Design Studio. After the birth of her first child, and working as a qualified interior designer for more than fifteen years, Bel started a blog focused on children's spaces. On the show today she explains how her really small, niche blog, Nest, progressed to becoming a really successful boutique design firm with clients in Australia, USA, France, Ireland, Dubai, Canada and many more places around the world. Listen in today to discover how Bel managed to really set herself apart from other Australian designers. Nest Design Studio was founded in 2010 and is known for its classic and creative style. Recognised both nationally and internationally, Nest has been featured in more than 25 magazines worldwide and has also been profiled on a number of other media outlets. Nest was included in the House and Garden Top Fifty Rooms of 2015 and in 2016 Bel released her first book, Beautiful Babies Rooms. Building on her reputation for being a leader in the children's interior field, and due to demand from her clients, Bel has now extended Nest to include residential and commercial interiors as well. Bel is a member of the Design Institute of Australia. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: How Bel's blog was born, soon after the birth of her child. How Bel went about creating her blog. Bel has completed nearly 500 nursery and children's room projects in the eight years that she's been in business. What helped Bel's blog to grow and feed her business. What Project Nursery is all about and how it helped Bel to grow her business. Finding what you're really passionate about as a way to grow your business. It took about six months for Bel's blog to gain some traction. Some of the things that really helped Bel grow her blog. What prompted Bel to start doing e-designing. How Bel worked out how much to charge for e-design. What Bel has learned about systems in the eight years since she's been in business. What Bel learned from the episode with Chaney Widmer (#327). Bel explains how her business has grown. The kind of budget that Bel works with for children's rooms. What's to be found in Belinda's book. Belinda's plans for the future. The steps that Belinda is taking towards her future plans. How Belinda sources her products. Belinda's advice for new designers. Some tips for building community on Instagram. Some of the challenges Belinda has faced with running her business out of her home. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Cheryl Janis #41 Laurel Bern #342 Chaney Widmer #327 Christina Perry #05 Rachel Moriarty #55 #214 To register to become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article. Well Designed Article If you would like to be in Luann's mastermind, email her assistant at Christie@luannnigara.com to set you up for a chat. Tue, 14 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have the pleasure of introducing you to an Australian designer today, Belinda Nihill, the principal of Nest Design Studio. After the birth of her first child, and working as a qualified interior designer for more than fifteen... Welcome to the show! We have the pleasure of introducing you to an Australian designer today, Belinda Nihill, the principal of Nest Design Studio. After the birth of her first child, and working as a qualified interior designer for more than fifteen years, Bel started a blog focused on children's spaces. On the show today she explains how her really small, niche blog, Nest, progressed to becoming a really successful boutique design firm with clients in Australia, USA, France, Ireland, Dubai, Canada and many more places around the world. Listen in today to discover how Bel managed to really set herself apart from other Australian designers. Nest Design Studio was founded in 2010 and is known for its classic and creative style. Recognised both nationally and internationally, Nest has been featured in more than 25 magazines worldwide and has also been profiled on a number of other media outlets. Nest was included in the House and Garden Top Fifty Rooms of 2015 and in 2016 Bel released her first book, Beautiful Babies Rooms. Building on her reputation for being a leader in the children's interior field, and due to demand from her clients, Bel has now extended Nest to include residential and commercial interiors as well. Bel is a member of the Design Institute of Australia. Listen in today to find out more. Show highlights: How Bel's blog was born, soon after the birth of her child. How Bel went about creating her blog. Bel has completed nearly 500 nursery and children's room projects in the eight years that she's been in business. What helped Bel's blog to grow and feed her business. What Project Nursery is all about and how it helped Bel to grow her business. Finding what you're really passionate about as a way to grow your business. It took about six months for Bel's blog to gain some traction. Some of the things that really helped Bel grow her blog. What prompted Bel to start doing e-designing. How Bel worked out how much to charge for e-design. What Bel has learned about systems in the eight years since she's been in business. What Bel learned from the episode with Chaney Widmer (#327). Bel explains how her business has grown. The kind of budget that Bel works with for children's rooms. What's to be found in Belinda's book. Belinda's plans for the future. The steps that Belinda is taking towards her future plans. How Belinda sources her products. Belinda's advice for new designers. Some tips for building community on Instagram. Some of the challenges Belinda has faced with running her business out of her home. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Cheryl Janis #41 Laurel Bern #342 Chaney Widmer #327 Christina Perry #05 Rachel Moriarty #55 #214 To register to become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article. Well Designed Article If you would like to be in Luann's mastermind, email her assistant at Christie@luannnigara.com to set you up for a chat. Welcome to the show! We have the pleasure of introducing you to an Australian designer today, Belinda Nihill, the principal of Nest Design Studio. After the birth of her first child, and working as a qualified interior designer for more than fifteen years, Bel started a blog focused on children's spaces. On the show today she explains how her really small, niche blog, Nest, progressed to becoming a really successful boutique design firm with clients in Australia, USA, France, Ireland, Dubai, Canada and many more places around the world. Listen in today to discover how Bel managed to really set herself apart from other Australian designers.

Nest Design Studio was founded in 2010 and is known for its classic and creative style. Recognised both nationally and internationally, Nest has been featured in more than 25 magazines worldwide and has also been profiled on a number of other media outlets. Nest was included in the House and Garden Top Fifty Rooms of 2015 and in 2016 Bel released her first book, Beautiful Babies Rooms. Building on her reputation for being a leader in the children's interior field, and due to demand from her clients, Bel has now extended Nest to include residential and commercial interiors as well. Bel is a member of the Design Institute of Australia. Listen in today to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • How Bel's blog was born, soon after the birth of her child.
  • How Bel went about creating her blog.
  • Bel has completed nearly 500 nursery and children's room projects in the eight years that she's been in business.
  • What helped Bel's blog to grow and feed her business.
  • What Project Nursery is all about and how it helped Bel to grow her business.
  • Finding what you're really passionate about as a way to grow your business.
  • It took about six months for Bel's blog to gain some traction.
  • Some of the things that really helped Bel grow her blog.
  • What prompted Bel to start doing e-designing.
  • How Bel worked out how much to charge for e-design.
  • What Bel has learned about systems in the eight years since she's been in business.
  • What Bel learned from the episode with Chaney Widmer (#327).
  • Bel explains how her business has grown.
  • The kind of budget that Bel works with for children's rooms.
  • What's to be found in Belinda's book.
  • Belinda's plans for the future.
  • The steps that Belinda is taking towards her future plans.
  • How Belinda sources her products.
  • Belinda's advice for new designers.
  • Some tips for building community on Instagram.
  • Some of the challenges Belinda has faced with running her business out of her home.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Cheryl Janis #41

Laurel Bern #342

Chaney Widmer #327

Christina Perry #05

Rachel Moriarty #55 #214

To register to become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article. Well Designed Article

If you would like to be in Luann's mastermind, email her assistant at Christie@luannnigara.com to set you up for a chat.

]]> 3962 no 349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/349-power-talk-friday-peter-lang-the-designer-cpa Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to Peter Lang today. Peter is a really smart CPA who has niched his business around helping designers with their unique financial challenges, like unconventional sales tax situations and budgeting around the massive upfront payments from clients. Many designers and artistic professionals find that ordinary CPA's are simply not equipped to cope with their specific needs. Peter, however, is a proven expert in helping interior designers with the kinds of financial duties that they weren't taught in art school. On the show today Peter discusses the years he spent learning how to help our constantly under-served industry and he also explains why he chose to follow his dream of starting a firm of his own. Listen in find out more. Peter started out at a large firm in Boston, where he became aware of the kind of problems that artistic professionals, like interior designers, were facing. He moved to a smaller firm but soon became bored with being a traditional CPA. He noticed that interior designers were constantly being under-served by standard CPAs, so he followed his heart and started his own business in Rhode Island, where he now lives with his family. Listen in today to find out what Peter has to share with you. Show highlights: Peter's experience of being told that he helped people too much while working at a cut-throat firm in Boston. The importance of being comfortable enough with your accountant to ask him whatever you need to know. How it happened that Peter started helping interior designers. The difference between gross profit and net profit. Why you need to keep track of your expenses in order to set your goals. Financial mistakes that designers often tend to make. How Peter helps new designers to really understand their financial situation. The way that Peter helps designers to increase their profit margins. Situations and ideas that could get designers into financial trouble. Peter explains how putting your money into a number of different bank accounts can help you to better manage your finances. Why you really need to trust your accountant. How Peter helps designers navigate their way to success by finding the right software for their business. Choosing the legal entity that best fits your specific business. When it makes sense to change your business to become an S-Corporation. Understanding more about taxation. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Michelle Williams #180 Fresh Books #265 Links: Peter's website: The Designer CPA Peter's email: peter@thedesignercpa.com Peter on Facebook: The Designer CPA Peter is also on Instagram Fri, 10 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to Peter Lang today. Peter is a really smart CPA who has niched his business around helping designers with their unique financial challenges, like unconventional sales... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to Peter Lang today. Peter is a really smart CPA who has niched his business around helping designers with their unique financial challenges, like unconventional sales tax situations and budgeting around the massive upfront payments from clients. Many designers and artistic professionals find that ordinary CPA's are simply not equipped to cope with their specific needs. Peter, however, is a proven expert in helping interior designers with the kinds of financial duties that they weren't taught in art school. On the show today Peter discusses the years he spent learning how to help our constantly under-served industry and he also explains why he chose to follow his dream of starting a firm of his own. Listen in find out more. Peter started out at a large firm in Boston, where he became aware of the kind of problems that artistic professionals, like interior designers, were facing. He moved to a smaller firm but soon became bored with being a traditional CPA. He noticed that interior designers were constantly being under-served by standard CPAs, so he followed his heart and started his own business in Rhode Island, where he now lives with his family. Listen in today to find out what Peter has to share with you. Show highlights: Peter's experience of being told that he helped people too much while working at a cut-throat firm in Boston. The importance of being comfortable enough with your accountant to ask him whatever you need to know. How it happened that Peter started helping interior designers. The difference between gross profit and net profit. Why you need to keep track of your expenses in order to set your goals. Financial mistakes that designers often tend to make. How Peter helps new designers to really understand their financial situation. The way that Peter helps designers to increase their profit margins. Situations and ideas that could get designers into financial trouble. Peter explains how putting your money into a number of different bank accounts can help you to better manage your finances. Why you really need to trust your accountant. How Peter helps designers navigate their way to success by finding the right software for their business. Choosing the legal entity that best fits your specific business. When it makes sense to change your business to become an S-Corporation. Understanding more about taxation. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Michelle Williams #180 Fresh Books #265 Links: Peter's website: The Designer CPA Peter's email: peter@thedesignercpa.com Peter on Facebook: The Designer CPA Peter is also on Instagram Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to introduce you to Peter Lang today. Peter is a really smart CPA who has niched his business around helping designers with their unique financial challenges, like unconventional sales tax situations and budgeting around the massive upfront payments from clients. Many designers and artistic professionals find that ordinary CPA's are simply not equipped to cope with their specific needs. Peter, however, is a proven expert in helping interior designers with the kinds of financial duties that they weren't taught in art school. On the show today Peter discusses the years he spent learning how to help our constantly under-served industry and he also explains why he chose to follow his dream of starting a firm of his own. Listen in find out more.

Peter started out at a large firm in Boston, where he became aware of the kind of problems that artistic professionals, like interior designers, were facing. He moved to a smaller firm but soon became bored with being a traditional CPA. He noticed that interior designers were constantly being under-served by standard CPAs, so he followed his heart and started his own business in Rhode Island, where he now lives with his family. Listen in today to find out what Peter has to share with you.

Show highlights:

  • Peter's experience of being told that he helped people too much while working at a cut-throat firm in Boston.
  • The importance of being comfortable enough with your accountant to ask him whatever you need to know.
  • How it happened that Peter started helping interior designers.
  • The difference between gross profit and net profit.
  • Why you need to keep track of your expenses in order to set your goals.
  • Financial mistakes that designers often tend to make.
  • How Peter helps new designers to really understand their financial situation.
  • The way that Peter helps designers to increase their profit margins.
  • Situations and ideas that could get designers into financial trouble.
  • Peter explains how putting your money into a number of different bank accounts can help you to better manage your finances.
  • Why you really need to trust your accountant.
  • How Peter helps designers navigate their way to success by finding the right software for their business.
  • Choosing the legal entity that best fits your specific business.
  • When it makes sense to change your business to become an S-Corporation.
  • Understanding more about taxation.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Michelle Williams #180

Fresh Books #265

Links:

Peter's website: The Designer CPA

Peter's email: peter@thedesignercpa.com

Peter on Facebook: The Designer CPA

Peter is also on Instagram

]]> 3508 no 348: Albie Buabeng: The E-Design Experience http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/348-albie-buabeng-the-e-design-experience Welcome! We have Albie Buabeng with us on the show today and she's one smart lady! Albie will be sharing with us her journey into interior design, which has lead her to becoming exclusively an e-designer. She will also explain how the success she's enjoyed as an e-designer inspired her to produce a conference and a community called the E-Design Experience. The E-Design Experience was created specifically to help designers, just like you, on their journey to becoming a more efficient e-designer. Listen in today to find out more about Albie and her community. After creating a comfortable, stylish, and functional home for her family of three in her NYC Hell's Kitchen studio apartment, Albie made the transition from retail visual merchandising to interior styling and design. And she hasn't looked back! She helps creatives and influencers in their fields decode their spaces and create beautiful dreamscapes. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Why Albie has chosen to follow the e-design path. The importance of having well-structured systems in place in your business. The way that Albie has refined her processes. Albie uses an automated email platform to ensure a smooth process for her clients from start to finish. How Albie moved into teaching e-design to her colleagues. Where the biggest challenges that Albies students are facing lie. Albie's business model for the E-Design Experience. The kind of designers that Albie attracts to her E-Design Experience community. Where the different e-designers source their products. The way that e-designers market their businesses. How Albie managed to find her voice as an e-designer. The social media platforms that Albie dropped out of while figuring out her specific path. Albie describes her ideal client. Other shows mentioned in this episode: Article.com #301 Chaney Widmar #260 Nicole Hymar (Curio Electro) #125 #317 Links: To become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article to register. http://welldesigned.article.com The E-Design Experience Website: Albie Knows Design YouTube: Albie Knows Design Instagram: Albie Knows Design Tue, 07 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! We have Albie Buabeng with us on the show today and she's one smart lady! Albie will be sharing with us her journey into interior design, which has lead her to becoming exclusively an e-designer. She will also explain how the success she's... Welcome! We have Albie Buabeng with us on the show today and she's one smart lady! Albie will be sharing with us her journey into interior design, which has lead her to becoming exclusively an e-designer. She will also explain how the success she's enjoyed as an e-designer inspired her to produce a conference and a community called the E-Design Experience. The E-Design Experience was created specifically to help designers, just like you, on their journey to becoming a more efficient e-designer. Listen in today to find out more about Albie and her community. After creating a comfortable, stylish, and functional home for her family of three in her NYC Hell's Kitchen studio apartment, Albie made the transition from retail visual merchandising to interior styling and design. And she hasn't looked back! She helps creatives and influencers in their fields decode their spaces and create beautiful dreamscapes. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Why Albie has chosen to follow the e-design path. The importance of having well-structured systems in place in your business. The way that Albie has refined her processes. Albie uses an automated email platform to ensure a smooth process for her clients from start to finish. How Albie moved into teaching e-design to her colleagues. Where the biggest challenges that Albies students are facing lie. Albie's business model for the E-Design Experience. The kind of designers that Albie attracts to her E-Design Experience community. Where the different e-designers source their products. The way that e-designers market their businesses. How Albie managed to find her voice as an e-designer. The social media platforms that Albie dropped out of while figuring out her specific path. Albie describes her ideal client. Other shows mentioned in this episode: Article.com #301 Chaney Widmar #260 Nicole Hymar (Curio Electro) #125 #317 Links: To become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article to register. http://welldesigned.article.com The E-Design Experience Website: Albie Knows Design YouTube: Albie Knows Design Instagram: Albie Knows Design Welcome! We have Albie Buabeng with us on the show today and she's one smart lady! Albie will be sharing with us her journey into interior design, which has lead her to becoming exclusively an e-designer. She will also explain how the success she's enjoyed as an e-designer inspired her to produce a conference and a community called the E-Design Experience. The E-Design Experience was created specifically to help designers, just like you, on their journey to becoming a more efficient e-designer. Listen in today to find out more about Albie and her community.

After creating a comfortable, stylish, and functional home for her family of three in her NYC Hell's Kitchen studio apartment, Albie made the transition from retail visual merchandising to interior styling and design. And she hasn't looked back! She helps creatives and influencers in their fields decode their spaces and create beautiful dreamscapes. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today.

  • Show highlights: Why Albie has chosen to follow the e-design path.
  • The importance of having well-structured systems in place in your business.
  • The way that Albie has refined her processes.
  • Albie uses an automated email platform to ensure a smooth process for her clients from start to finish.
  • How Albie moved into teaching e-design to her colleagues.
  • Where the biggest challenges that Albies students are facing lie.
  • Albie's business model for the E-Design Experience.
  • The kind of designers that Albie attracts to her E-Design Experience community.
  • Where the different e-designers source their products.
  • The way that e-designers market their businesses.
  • How Albie managed to find her voice as an e-designer.
  • The social media platforms that Albie dropped out of while figuring out her specific path.

Albie describes her ideal client. Other shows mentioned in this episode: Article.com #301 Chaney Widmar #260 Nicole Hymar (Curio Electro) #125 #317 Links: To become an Article trade member go to Well Designed Article to register. http://welldesigned.article.com The E-Design Experience Website: Albie Knows Design YouTube: Albie Knows Design Instagram: Albie Knows Design

]]> 3715 no 347: Power Talk Friday: Mikael Dia: How to Market to Your Ideal Client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/347-power-talk-friday-mikael-dia-how-to-market-to-your-ideal-client Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today we have Mikael Dia, a digital marketing expert and the founder of Funnelytics, with us on the show. Funnelytics is a software company that helps entrepreneurs and marketers to convert traffic into more profit. And Mikael is a really extraordinary entrepreneur and marketing expert who is really passionate about helping business owners, just like you, to get your message out in a way that is more impacting, more direct and way more focused. On the show, we talk with Mikael about his Growth Accelerator program with its nine phases towards success in growing your business online. Listen in today to get Mikael's really helpful advice. Mikael has two master's degrees- an MBA from the Hult International Business School, and a master's degree in civil engineering from Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, with a specialization in project management. Mikael's first venture was a Mandarin language school that he started in London in 2012. It grew quickly and Mikael and his business partner were able to exit from it successfully within eight months. Mikael has since grown his marketing agency, White Coat Digital, to over a million dollars in just eighteen months. He is known for his expertise in scaling online businesses very quickly and this has allowed him to raise over a million dollars in angel and seed funding for his ventures. Mikael,  originally from Montreal, now lives in Toronto with his wife and eighteen-month-old daughter. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today! Show highlights: The best way to look at sales funnels. Guiding the conversation with your potential clients. How to start the process. Finding the top of your mountain. Discovering your ideal client and appealing to them in the right way. Getting to understand your ideal client. Putting out the right message to attract the right person. The power of your marketing message. Finding the emotional reasons for people's motivations. Measuring what's working and what's not. Creative ways to work with the numbers. Mapping things out in a colorful, visual way. Ways of keeping track of your Facebook ads. All about Mikael's 16-week Growth Accelerator program. The awesome support that Mikael's program will be offering. Mikael's process is all about growth. Why you really need to simplify everything.  Links: Other episodes mentioned on this show: Adam Urbanski #280 Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Kae Whitaker #274 Kae Whitaker #259 Claire Jefford #325 To find out more about Mikael's Growth Accelerator program go to The Dia Project Mikael's other website is  Funnelytics You can reach Mikael's PR representative, Ester (Pinky) Kiss, on (323)770 3530 or find her at Born To Influence To find out more about LuAnn's group coaching program or mastermind group starting on September 12, email Christie at christie@luannnigara.com to make the necessary arrangements. Fri, 03 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today we have Mikael Dia, a digital marketing expert and the founder of Funnelytics, with us on the show. Funnelytics is a software company that helps entrepreneurs and marketers to convert traffic into... Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today we have Mikael Dia, a digital marketing expert and the founder of Funnelytics, with us on the show. Funnelytics is a software company that helps entrepreneurs and marketers to convert traffic into more profit. And Mikael is a really extraordinary entrepreneur and marketing expert who is really passionate about helping business owners, just like you, to get your message out in a way that is more impacting, more direct and way more focused. On the show, we talk with Mikael about his Growth Accelerator program with its nine phases towards success in growing your business online. Listen in today to get Mikael's really helpful advice. Mikael has two master's degrees- an MBA from the Hult International Business School, and a master's degree in civil engineering from Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, with a specialization in project management. Mikael's first venture was a Mandarin language school that he started in London in 2012. It grew quickly and Mikael and his business partner were able to exit from it successfully within eight months. Mikael has since grown his marketing agency, White Coat Digital, to over a million dollars in just eighteen months. He is known for his expertise in scaling online businesses very quickly and this has allowed him to raise over a million dollars in angel and seed funding for his ventures. Mikael,  originally from Montreal, now lives in Toronto with his wife and eighteen-month-old daughter. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today! Show highlights: The best way to look at sales funnels. Guiding the conversation with your potential clients. How to start the process. Finding the top of your mountain. Discovering your ideal client and appealing to them in the right way. Getting to understand your ideal client. Putting out the right message to attract the right person. The power of your marketing message. Finding the emotional reasons for people's motivations. Measuring what's working and what's not. Creative ways to work with the numbers. Mapping things out in a colorful, visual way. Ways of keeping track of your Facebook ads. All about Mikael's 16-week Growth Accelerator program. The awesome support that Mikael's program will be offering. Mikael's process is all about growth. Why you really need to simplify everything.  Links: Other episodes mentioned on this show: Adam Urbanski #280 Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Kae Whitaker #274 Kae Whitaker #259 Claire Jefford #325 To find out more about Mikael's Growth Accelerator program go to The Dia Project Mikael's other website is  Funnelytics You can reach Mikael's PR representative, Ester (Pinky) Kiss, on (323)770 3530 or find her at Born To Influence To find out more about LuAnn's group coaching program or mastermind group starting on September 12, email Christie at christie@luannnigara.com to make the necessary arrangements. Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today we have Mikael Dia, a digital marketing expert and the founder of Funnelytics, with us on the show. Funnelytics is a software company that helps entrepreneurs and marketers to convert traffic into more profit. And Mikael is a really extraordinary entrepreneur and marketing expert who is really passionate about helping business owners, just like you, to get your message out in a way that is more impacting, more direct and way more focused. On the show, we talk with Mikael about his Growth Accelerator program with its nine phases towards success in growing your business online. Listen in today to get Mikael's really helpful advice.

Mikael has two master's degrees- an MBA from the Hult International Business School, and a master's degree in civil engineering from Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, with a specialization in project management. Mikael's first venture was a Mandarin language school that he started in London in 2012. It grew quickly and Mikael and his business partner were able to exit from it successfully within eight months. Mikael has since grown his marketing agency, White Coat Digital, to over a million dollars in just eighteen months. He is known for his expertise in scaling online businesses very quickly and this has allowed him to raise over a million dollars in angel and seed funding for his ventures. Mikael,  originally from Montreal, now lives in Toronto with his wife and eighteen-month-old daughter. Listen in to find out what he has to share on the show today!

Show highlights:

  • The best way to look at sales funnels.
  • Guiding the conversation with your potential clients.
  • How to start the process.
  • Finding the top of your mountain.
  • Discovering your ideal client and appealing to them in the right way.
  • Getting to understand your ideal client.
  • Putting out the right message to attract the right person.
  • The power of your marketing message.
  • Finding the emotional reasons for people's motivations.
  • Measuring what's working and what's not.
  • Creative ways to work with the numbers.
  • Mapping things out in a colorful, visual way.
  • Ways of keeping track of your Facebook ads.
  • All about Mikael's 16-week Growth Accelerator program.
  • The awesome support that Mikael's program will be offering.
  • Mikael's process is all about growth.
  • Why you really need to simplify everything.

 Links:

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Adam Urbanski #280

Nancy Ganzekaupher #256

Kae Whitaker #274

Kae Whitaker #259

Claire Jefford #325

To find out more about Mikael's Growth Accelerator program go to The Dia Project

Mikael's other website is  Funnelytics

You can reach Mikael's PR representative, Ester (Pinky) Kiss, on (323)770 3530 or find her at Born To Influence

To find out more about LuAnn's group coaching program or mastermind group starting on September 12, email Christie at christie@luannnigara.com to make the necessary arrangements.

]]> 3756 no 346: Do Not Let Us Design: Taylor Dieterich & Yashlie Negron http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/346-do-not-let-us-design-taylor-dieterich-yashlie-negron Welcome to today's show! We have Taylor Dietrich and Yashlie Negron with us and they are the co-founders a firm that works both in real locations and virtually, called Do Not Let Us Design. And that's a catchy name that really piques your interest, right? On the show today Taylor and Yashlie discuss their interesting journey in the industry, starting out as interns, being promoted and eventually graduating into project managers and junior designers. They have come up with a very interesting concept, so listen in today to find out more. DNLUD as a name comes from the misconception of misjudging someone who might look too young or easygoing. Taylor and Yashlie have embraced any negative connotations and turned these to their advantage while striving to produce really unique and stunning interiors.  Yashlie grew up around construction zones and witnessing places transform before her eyes instilled in her a desire to create a similar kind of magic. She graduated with a BFA in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design. Since graduating, she has worked with various design firms. Taylor, inspired by travel and all things foreign, became inspired to contribute to the arts through interiors after spending a semester in Florence. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island in the Textile, Merchandising, and Design program, she quickly jumped into the trade. She specializes in project management. Listen in to find out what these two really savvy ladies have to share on the show today. Show highlights: How DNLUD concept came about and why they decided to do it. How they started their own company while still working part-time for another firm. The kind of confidence they had, starting out. Their process of legitimizing their brand. The kind of legal assistance they used for their business. Some of the things that Yashlie and Taylor do to assist designers. The close attention that they pay to the details. The way that they really have their systems locked down. How they go about managing their projects. Their way of being transparent with their processes, in real time. The really organized process that they use with their clients. The fees that they charge and the way that they get paid. How they create a visual package for their clients. How they understand the design holistically. The way that they protect their clients' confidentiality. Links: Yashie and Taylor's website: DNLUD Email Yashlie and Taylor at yashlieandtaylor@dnlud.com Yashlie and Tayor on Instagram: dnlud Other episodes mentioned on the show: Brittany Ems #149 Danielle Liss #171 Tue, 31 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Taylor Dietrich and Yashlie Negron with us and they are the co-founders a firm that works both in real locations and virtually, called Do Not Let Us Design. And that's a catchy name that really piques your interest,... Welcome to today's show! We have Taylor Dietrich and Yashlie Negron with us and they are the co-founders a firm that works both in real locations and virtually, called Do Not Let Us Design. And that's a catchy name that really piques your interest, right? On the show today Taylor and Yashlie discuss their interesting journey in the industry, starting out as interns, being promoted and eventually graduating into project managers and junior designers. They have come up with a very interesting concept, so listen in today to find out more. DNLUD as a name comes from the misconception of misjudging someone who might look too young or easygoing. Taylor and Yashlie have embraced any negative connotations and turned these to their advantage while striving to produce really unique and stunning interiors.  Yashlie grew up around construction zones and witnessing places transform before her eyes instilled in her a desire to create a similar kind of magic. She graduated with a BFA in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design. Since graduating, she has worked with various design firms. Taylor, inspired by travel and all things foreign, became inspired to contribute to the arts through interiors after spending a semester in Florence. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island in the Textile, Merchandising, and Design program, she quickly jumped into the trade. She specializes in project management. Listen in to find out what these two really savvy ladies have to share on the show today. Show highlights: How DNLUD concept came about and why they decided to do it. How they started their own company while still working part-time for another firm. The kind of confidence they had, starting out. Their process of legitimizing their brand. The kind of legal assistance they used for their business. Some of the things that Yashlie and Taylor do to assist designers. The close attention that they pay to the details. The way that they really have their systems locked down. How they go about managing their projects. Their way of being transparent with their processes, in real time. The really organized process that they use with their clients. The fees that they charge and the way that they get paid. How they create a visual package for their clients. How they understand the design holistically. The way that they protect their clients' confidentiality. Links: Yashie and Taylor's website: DNLUD Email Yashlie and Taylor at yashlieandtaylor@dnlud.com Yashlie and Tayor on Instagram: dnlud Other episodes mentioned on the show: Brittany Ems #149 Danielle Liss #171 Welcome to today's show! We have Taylor Dietrich and Yashlie Negron with us and they are the co-founders a firm that works both in real locations and virtually, called Do Not Let Us Design. And that's a catchy name that really piques your interest, right? On the show today Taylor and Yashlie discuss their interesting journey in the industry, starting out as interns, being promoted and eventually graduating into project managers and junior designers. They have come up with a very interesting concept, so listen in today to find out more.

DNLUD as a name comes from the misconception of misjudging someone who might look too young or easygoing. Taylor and Yashlie have embraced any negative connotations and turned these to their advantage while striving to produce really unique and stunning interiors. 

Yashlie grew up around construction zones and witnessing places transform before her eyes instilled in her a desire to create a similar kind of magic. She graduated with a BFA in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design. Since graduating, she has worked with various design firms.

Taylor, inspired by travel and all things foreign, became inspired to contribute to the arts through interiors after spending a semester in Florence. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island in the Textile, Merchandising, and Design program, she quickly jumped into the trade. She specializes in project management.

Listen in to find out what these two really savvy ladies have to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • How DNLUD concept came about and why they decided to do it.
  • How they started their own company while still working part-time for another firm.
  • The kind of confidence they had, starting out.
  • Their process of legitimizing their brand.
  • The kind of legal assistance they used for their business.
  • Some of the things that Yashlie and Taylor do to assist designers.
  • The close attention that they pay to the details.
  • The way that they really have their systems locked down.
  • How they go about managing their projects.
  • Their way of being transparent with their processes, in real time.
  • The really organized process that they use with their clients.
  • The fees that they charge and the way that they get paid.
  • How they create a visual package for their clients.
  • How they understand the design holistically.
  • The way that they protect their clients' confidentiality.

Links:

Yashie and Taylor's website: DNLUD

Email Yashlie and Taylor at yashlieandtaylor@dnlud.com

Yashlie and Tayor on Instagram: dnlud

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Brittany Ems #149

Danielle Liss #171

]]> 3618 no 345: Power Talk Friday: Chris Ramey - Attracting and Marketing to the Affluent http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/345-power-talk-friday-chris-ramey-attracting-and-marketing-to-the-affluent Welcome to today's episode! We have Chris Ramey, the president of The Home Trust International and Affluent Insights/Retail-Rescue, on the show with us today. Chris is a marketing professional who is very well versed in both our industry and the habits and traits of affluent people and he truly understands all there is to know about the client and the consumer base, particularly within the affluent consumer market. He's pointed out to us that research has shown that the biggest problem that interior designers are facing lately is finding clients. So today Chris, who really knows the kind of pain that many interior designers are experiencing right now, explains what luxury really means and how to interact with the extremely wealthy market. Listen in to find out more. The Home Trust is an aggressive marketing agency with hyper-focused marketing programs to help them really penetrate the market. It is best known for its rich consumer-facing website which is aimed at high net-worth families, where they find the world's best products and services for their homes. Chris is a consultant and a speaker, consulting and speaking to organizations with all luxury categories. He is the most quoted independent authority in the luxury segment and he has, in the past,  been president of The Luxury Marketing Council Miami and The Luxury Marketing Council Palm Beach, as well as president and founder of Savvi Formalwear, and president of International Design Guild. Chris is a member of National Speakers Association, a columnist for Hearst Business Publications' Floor Covering Weekly, and he has earned the 'Top 5% appellation' from Gerson-Lehrman for his work with private equity firms investing in home and luxury segments. He also sits on the Retail Wire Brain Trust panel and he is a director for Domestic Estate Management Association Palm Beach. Chris, originally from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, now resides with his wife in Palm Beach County, Florida. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: How Chris came to understand the affluent market so well. What you, as a designer, need to understand in order to be successful in reaching the affluent market. You don't sell to the affluent market- you fascinate them! What it takes to connect with the affluent market. Creating something that is uniquely yours. Why you need to constantly be honing who you are and what you do. Why it is really so important for you to have the courage to express your own, singular point of view. How Chris helps designers. Chris explains his 'Laws of Luxury'. Why you should not align your brand with fashion. The different kind of business model and sales strategy that is applied to the luxury market. Evoking desire for your brand. Having money doesn't necessarily make you a luxury consumer. How to market to the truly affluent. Scarcity is another pillar of luxury. How logos define you. Ways to get known within the really affluent market. Collaborating is always a pillar of luxury- but you really do need to have enough money to advertise. Why you really don't want to be perceived as isolated. Surprising and delighting your client in a way that will drive loyalty to your brand.  Links: Chris Websites: The Home Trust Email Chris at: cpr@affluentinsights.com cpr@thehometrust.com Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer #125 and #317 Studio Thomas #314 Nancy Ganzekaupher #9 Jo Buckerfield #320 Fri, 27 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have Chris Ramey, the president of The Home Trust International and Affluent Insights/Retail-Rescue, on the show with us today. Chris is a marketing professional who is very well versed in both our industry and the... Welcome to today's episode! We have Chris Ramey, the president of The Home Trust International and Affluent Insights/Retail-Rescue, on the show with us today. Chris is a marketing professional who is very well versed in both our industry and the habits and traits of affluent people and he truly understands all there is to know about the client and the consumer base, particularly within the affluent consumer market. He's pointed out to us that research has shown that the biggest problem that interior designers are facing lately is finding clients. So today Chris, who really knows the kind of pain that many interior designers are experiencing right now, explains what luxury really means and how to interact with the extremely wealthy market. Listen in to find out more. The Home Trust is an aggressive marketing agency with hyper-focused marketing programs to help them really penetrate the market. It is best known for its rich consumer-facing website which is aimed at high net-worth families, where they find the world's best products and services for their homes. Chris is a consultant and a speaker, consulting and speaking to organizations with all luxury categories. He is the most quoted independent authority in the luxury segment and he has, in the past,  been president of The Luxury Marketing Council Miami and The Luxury Marketing Council Palm Beach, as well as president and founder of Savvi Formalwear, and president of International Design Guild. Chris is a member of National Speakers Association, a columnist for Hearst Business Publications' Floor Covering Weekly, and he has earned the 'Top 5% appellation' from Gerson-Lehrman for his work with private equity firms investing in home and luxury segments. He also sits on the Retail Wire Brain Trust panel and he is a director for Domestic Estate Management Association Palm Beach. Chris, originally from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, now resides with his wife in Palm Beach County, Florida. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: How Chris came to understand the affluent market so well. What you, as a designer, need to understand in order to be successful in reaching the affluent market. You don't sell to the affluent market- you fascinate them! What it takes to connect with the affluent market. Creating something that is uniquely yours. Why you need to constantly be honing who you are and what you do. Why it is really so important for you to have the courage to express your own, singular point of view. How Chris helps designers. Chris explains his 'Laws of Luxury'. Why you should not align your brand with fashion. The different kind of business model and sales strategy that is applied to the luxury market. Evoking desire for your brand. Having money doesn't necessarily make you a luxury consumer. How to market to the truly affluent. Scarcity is another pillar of luxury. How logos define you. Ways to get known within the really affluent market. Collaborating is always a pillar of luxury- but you really do need to have enough money to advertise. Why you really don't want to be perceived as isolated. Surprising and delighting your client in a way that will drive loyalty to your brand.  Links: Chris Websites: The Home Trust Email Chris at: cpr@affluentinsights.com cpr@thehometrust.com Other episodes mentioned on the show: Nicole Heymer #125 and #317 Studio Thomas #314 Nancy Ganzekaupher #9 Jo Buckerfield #320 Welcome to today's episode! We have Chris Ramey, the president of The Home Trust International and Affluent Insights/Retail-Rescue, on the show with us today. Chris is a marketing professional who is very well versed in both our industry and the habits and traits of affluent people and he truly understands all there is to know about the client and the consumer base, particularly within the affluent consumer market. He's pointed out to us that research has shown that the biggest problem that interior designers are facing lately is finding clients. So today Chris, who really knows the kind of pain that many interior designers are experiencing right now, explains what luxury really means and how to interact with the extremely wealthy market. Listen in to find out more.

The Home Trust is an aggressive marketing agency with hyper-focused marketing programs to help them really penetrate the market. It is best known for its rich consumer-facing website which is aimed at high net-worth families, where they find the world's best products and services for their homes. Chris is a consultant and a speaker, consulting and speaking to organizations with all luxury categories. He is the most quoted independent authority in the luxury segment and he has, in the past,  been president of The Luxury Marketing Council Miami and The Luxury Marketing Council Palm Beach, as well as president and founder of Savvi Formalwear, and president of International Design Guild.

Chris is a member of National Speakers Association, a columnist for Hearst Business Publications' Floor Covering Weekly, and he has earned the 'Top 5% appellation' from Gerson-Lehrman for his work with private equity firms investing in home and luxury segments. He also sits on the Retail Wire Brain Trust panel and he is a director for Domestic Estate Management Association Palm Beach.

Chris, originally from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, now resides with his wife in Palm Beach County, Florida. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on today's show.

Show highlights:

  • How Chris came to understand the affluent market so well.
  • What you, as a designer, need to understand in order to be successful in reaching the affluent market.
  • You don't sell to the affluent market- you fascinate them!
  • What it takes to connect with the affluent market.
  • Creating something that is uniquely yours.
  • Why you need to constantly be honing who you are and what you do.
  • Why it is really so important for you to have the courage to express your own, singular point of view.
  • How Chris helps designers.
  • Chris explains his 'Laws of Luxury'.
  • Why you should not align your brand with fashion.
  • The different kind of business model and sales strategy that is applied to the luxury market.
  • Evoking desire for your brand.
  • Having money doesn't necessarily make you a luxury consumer.
  • How to market to the truly affluent.
  • Scarcity is another pillar of luxury.
  • How logos define you.
  • Ways to get known within the really affluent market.
  • Collaborating is always a pillar of luxury- but you really do need to have enough money to advertise.
  • Why you really don't want to be perceived as isolated.
  • Surprising and delighting your client in a way that will drive loyalty to your brand.

 Links:

Chris Websites: The Home Trust

Email Chris at: cpr@affluentinsights.com

cpr@thehometrust.com

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Nicole Heymer #125 and #317

Studio Thomas #314

Nancy Ganzekaupher #9

Jo Buckerfield #320

]]> 3790 no 344: Mrs. Paranjape: A New Take on Relationships with Retailers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/344-mrs-paranjape-a-new-take-on-relationships-with-retailers Welcome! Today we have a very smart lady, Lori Paranjape, of Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors with us. As well as being a really talented designer, Lori, affectionately known as Mrs. Paranjape, is also an excellent businesswoman and on the show today she's going to be offering lots of really practical advice for designers. She has had her work featured in People, HGTV Magazine, and Domino, as well as in many other publications. Listen in today to find out what Lori has to share with you. Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors, which specializes in luxury residential and new construction projects, was started in 2008. Lori is a self-taught and extremely motivated designer. She started out helping friends and acquaintances with their homes. As time went by, referrals continued to pour in and Lori began working as the in-house designer for Redo Home and Design, the well-loved home retailer to generations of families based in Nashville. Listen in today as Lori discusses the really innovative relationship she has with Redo Home and Design, and she also encourages designers and retailers to build awesome partnerships, just as she has done with Redo. Show highlights: Lori's explains the details of her 'Design Collective' business model that she has set up in Nashville. The wonderful, symbiotic relationship that Lori has with her business partner. The clear distinctions between the different aspects of her partnership. What constitutes a 'commissionable' sale within her partnership. How Lori's commission is paid to her. The intentional way that Lori sources everything that she needs. How Lori's retailer provides everything that she needs. The awesome and mutually beneficial kind of partnership that can be formed between a designer and a retailer. The way that Lori and her partner work to utilize a relatively small showroom space to their best advantage. Lori's unique, practical and real-life approach to designing a home for her clients. The way that Lori really takes care of her clients. Why you, as designers, really need to cultivate the skill of asking,  listening, and then going a little deeper. Lori's special way of discovering the personal details about her clients, without making them feel uncomfortable. Lori's innovative ways of encouraging clients to spend more money on a project, if it's necessary. Some tips for overcoming difficulties with clients around the cost of a project in a comfortable way. The conversations that Lori has with her clients right at the beginning of their relationship. When to simply say 'no' to a client. Using candles and music to transform a room and create the right atmosphere. Ways of gaining a client's cooperation in using their home for a photo shoot. How to Find Lori: Website - Mrs. Paranjape Instagram - @mrsparanjape Pinterest - Mrs. Paranjape Tue, 24 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have a very smart lady, Lori Paranjape, of Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors with us. As well as being a really talented designer, Lori, affectionately known as Mrs. Paranjape, is also an excellent businesswoman and on the show... Welcome! Today we have a very smart lady, Lori Paranjape, of Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors with us. As well as being a really talented designer, Lori, affectionately known as Mrs. Paranjape, is also an excellent businesswoman and on the show today she's going to be offering lots of really practical advice for designers. She has had her work featured in People, HGTV Magazine, and Domino, as well as in many other publications. Listen in today to find out what Lori has to share with you. Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors, which specializes in luxury residential and new construction projects, was started in 2008. Lori is a self-taught and extremely motivated designer. She started out helping friends and acquaintances with their homes. As time went by, referrals continued to pour in and Lori began working as the in-house designer for Redo Home and Design, the well-loved home retailer to generations of families based in Nashville. Listen in today as Lori discusses the really innovative relationship she has with Redo Home and Design, and she also encourages designers and retailers to build awesome partnerships, just as she has done with Redo. Show highlights: Lori's explains the details of her 'Design Collective' business model that she has set up in Nashville. The wonderful, symbiotic relationship that Lori has with her business partner. The clear distinctions between the different aspects of her partnership. What constitutes a 'commissionable' sale within her partnership. How Lori's commission is paid to her. The intentional way that Lori sources everything that she needs. How Lori's retailer provides everything that she needs. The awesome and mutually beneficial kind of partnership that can be formed between a designer and a retailer. The way that Lori and her partner work to utilize a relatively small showroom space to their best advantage. Lori's unique, practical and real-life approach to designing a home for her clients. The way that Lori really takes care of her clients. Why you, as designers, really need to cultivate the skill of asking,  listening, and then going a little deeper. Lori's special way of discovering the personal details about her clients, without making them feel uncomfortable. Lori's innovative ways of encouraging clients to spend more money on a project, if it's necessary. Some tips for overcoming difficulties with clients around the cost of a project in a comfortable way. The conversations that Lori has with her clients right at the beginning of their relationship. When to simply say 'no' to a client. Using candles and music to transform a room and create the right atmosphere. Ways of gaining a client's cooperation in using their home for a photo shoot. How to Find Lori: Website - Mrs. Paranjape Instagram - @mrsparanjape Pinterest - Mrs. Paranjape Welcome! Today we have a very smart lady, Lori Paranjape, of Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors with us. As well as being a really talented designer, Lori, affectionately known as Mrs. Paranjape, is also an excellent businesswoman and on the show today she's going to be offering lots of really practical advice for designers. She has had her work featured in People, HGTV Magazine, and Domino, as well as in many other publications. Listen in today to find out what Lori has to share with you.

Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors, which specializes in luxury residential and new construction projects, was started in 2008. Lori is a self-taught and extremely motivated designer. She started out helping friends and acquaintances with their homes. As time went by, referrals continued to pour in and Lori began working as the in-house designer for Redo Home and Design, the well-loved home retailer to generations of families based in Nashville. Listen in today as Lori discusses the really innovative relationship she has with Redo Home and Design, and she also encourages designers and retailers to build awesome partnerships, just as she has done with Redo.

Show highlights:

Lori's explains the details of her 'Design Collective' business model that she has set up in Nashville.

The wonderful, symbiotic relationship that Lori has with her business partner.

The clear distinctions between the different aspects of her partnership.

What constitutes a 'commissionable' sale within her partnership.

How Lori's commission is paid to her.

The intentional way that Lori sources everything that she needs.

How Lori's retailer provides everything that she needs.

The awesome and mutually beneficial kind of partnership that can be formed between a designer and a retailer.

The way that Lori and her partner work to utilize a relatively small showroom space to their best advantage.

Lori's unique, practical and real-life approach to designing a home for her clients.

The way that Lori really takes care of her clients.

Why you, as designers, really need to cultivate the skill of asking,  listening, and then going a little deeper.

Lori's special way of discovering the personal details about her clients, without making them feel uncomfortable.

Lori's innovative ways of encouraging clients to spend more money on a project, if it's necessary.

Some tips for overcoming difficulties with clients around the cost of a project in a comfortable way.

The conversations that Lori has with her clients right at the beginning of their relationship.

When to simply say 'no' to a client.

Using candles and music to transform a room and create the right atmosphere.

Ways of gaining a client's cooperation in using their home for a photo shoot.

How to Find Lori:

Website - Mrs. Paranjape

Instagram - @mrsparanjape

Pinterest - Mrs. Paranjape

]]> 4085 no 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/343-power-talk-friday-raquel-langworthy-partnering-with-your-interiors-photographer Welcome to this week's Power Talk Friday! We have Raquel Langworthy, a lifestyle, and interiors photographer, with us. Rachel's philosophy is one of partnering very closely with her clients, so today we are going to be talking to her about how she does that with her designer clients, by creating with them a thorough and detailed relationship, working with them side by side and supporting them all the way. Listen in to find out more. Raquel is a Lifestyle and Interiors photographer based in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. She services mainly the east coast but she's traveled the country for various photography assignments for both documentary storytelling and interiors. Raquel has recently been published in NY Cottage & Garden, for their cover story, as well as in many other online publications such as Domino.com and Architectural Digest online. Raquel moved to New Jersey two years ago, and although she still feels new to the NJ market she has had the pleasure of working with a host of talented interior designers and architects to capture their work and portraits. Her focus in photography is naturally lit bright spaces. Her goal when photographing interiors is not only to capture the overall space but captivate an audience through visual storytelling and well-styled compositions. Listen in to find out what Raquel has to share on the show today. Show highlights: How Raquel starts her relationship with a new client. The importance of using the right styling to create the perfect composition. Why Raquel does not email her clients. How Raquel prepares for a shoot. Raquel also assists with the styling at times. Photographing a full house really takes a whole lot of styling! Raquel and Charlotte's work was featured recently on the cover of NY Cottage and Garden, and also in a ten-page article. How to tell if it's really worth investing in a talented stylist for a photo shoot, or not. What Raquel has learned from previous episodes of the podcast. Why you really have to be ready, to work nationally. The different specialties and skill sets of photographers. Some things to look out for when taking photos with your iPhone. Some tips for working with a photographer. Some tips for designers, when thinking about hiring a photographer for a project. Previous episodes mentioned on the show. Charlotte #138 Ashley Hotham Cox #321 Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Links: Website - Raquel Langworthy Instagram - Raquel Langworthy Photography Facebook - Raquel Langworthy Photography Fri, 20 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to this week's Power Talk Friday! We have Raquel Langworthy, a lifestyle, and interiors photographer, with us. Rachel's philosophy is one of partnering very closely with her clients, so today we are going to be talking to her about how she... Welcome to this week's Power Talk Friday! We have Raquel Langworthy, a lifestyle, and interiors photographer, with us. Rachel's philosophy is one of partnering very closely with her clients, so today we are going to be talking to her about how she does that with her designer clients, by creating with them a thorough and detailed relationship, working with them side by side and supporting them all the way. Listen in to find out more. Raquel is a Lifestyle and Interiors photographer based in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. She services mainly the east coast but she's traveled the country for various photography assignments for both documentary storytelling and interiors. Raquel has recently been published in NY Cottage & Garden, for their cover story, as well as in many other online publications such as Domino.com and Architectural Digest online. Raquel moved to New Jersey two years ago, and although she still feels new to the NJ market she has had the pleasure of working with a host of talented interior designers and architects to capture their work and portraits. Her focus in photography is naturally lit bright spaces. Her goal when photographing interiors is not only to capture the overall space but captivate an audience through visual storytelling and well-styled compositions. Listen in to find out what Raquel has to share on the show today. Show highlights: How Raquel starts her relationship with a new client. The importance of using the right styling to create the perfect composition. Why Raquel does not email her clients. How Raquel prepares for a shoot. Raquel also assists with the styling at times. Photographing a full house really takes a whole lot of styling! Raquel and Charlotte's work was featured recently on the cover of NY Cottage and Garden, and also in a ten-page article. How to tell if it's really worth investing in a talented stylist for a photo shoot, or not. What Raquel has learned from previous episodes of the podcast. Why you really have to be ready, to work nationally. The different specialties and skill sets of photographers. Some things to look out for when taking photos with your iPhone. Some tips for working with a photographer. Some tips for designers, when thinking about hiring a photographer for a project. Previous episodes mentioned on the show. Charlotte #138 Ashley Hotham Cox #321 Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Links: Website - Raquel Langworthy Instagram - Raquel Langworthy Photography Facebook - Raquel Langworthy Photography Welcome to this week's Power Talk Friday! We have Raquel Langworthy, a lifestyle, and interiors photographer, with us. Rachel's philosophy is one of partnering very closely with her clients, so today we are going to be talking to her about how she does that with her designer clients, by creating with them a thorough and detailed relationship, working with them side by side and supporting them all the way. Listen in to find out more.

Raquel is a Lifestyle and Interiors photographer based in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. She services mainly the east coast but she's traveled the country for various photography assignments for both documentary storytelling and interiors. Raquel has recently been published in NY Cottage & Garden, for their cover story, as well as in many other online publications such as Domino.com and Architectural Digest online. Raquel moved to New Jersey two years ago, and although she still feels new to the NJ market she has had the pleasure of working with a host of talented interior designers and architects to capture their work and portraits. Her focus in photography is naturally lit bright spaces. Her goal when photographing interiors is not only to capture the overall space but captivate an audience through visual storytelling and well-styled compositions. Listen in to find out what Raquel has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • How Raquel starts her relationship with a new client.
  • The importance of using the right styling to create the perfect composition.
  • Why Raquel does not email her clients.
  • How Raquel prepares for a shoot.
  • Raquel also assists with the styling at times.
  • Photographing a full house really takes a whole lot of styling!
  • Raquel and Charlotte's work was featured recently on the cover of NY Cottage and Garden, and also in a ten-page article.
  • How to tell if it's really worth investing in a talented stylist for a photo shoot, or not.
  • What Raquel has learned from previous episodes of the podcast.
  • Why you really have to be ready, to work nationally.
  • The different specialties and skill sets of photographers.
  • Some things to look out for when taking photos with your iPhone.
  • Some tips for working with a photographer.
  • Some tips for designers, when thinking about hiring a photographer for a project.

Previous episodes mentioned on the show.

Charlotte #138

Ashley Hotham Cox #321

Amy Flurry #108 and #323

Links:

Website - Raquel Langworthy

Instagram - Raquel Langworthy Photography

Facebook - Raquel Langworthy Photography

]]> 3881 no 342: Laurel Bern: 6 Figure Interior Design Blogger Shares Advice http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/342-laurel-bern-6-figure-interior-design-blogger-shares-advice Welcome to today's episode! We have Laurel Bern, of Laurel Bern Interiors on the show with us today. Laurel Bern is an award-winning New York Interior Designer, blogger, brand ambassador and speaker. Her design work has been featured in national as well as Westchester County shelter magazines. She is known for a having a young-traditional aesthetic and is one to buck many of the current trends unless they happen to be classic favorites. However, after 21 years as the principle designer in her firm Laurel Bern Interiors, she has turned her focus to blogging as a full-time occupation. Her award-winning blog, Laurel Home has drawn a large following – and by large- I mean with page views in the multiple hundreds of thousands every month- due to her candid style of writing, useful information and warm community of readers. You can see for yourself right on her website, laurelberninteriors.com she earns over $33,000 per month from her blog. Laurel's Rolodex is a comprehensive shopping guide for home furnishings with links to the vendor/manufacturers and features a list of some 180 designer-friendly vendors for interior designers. No professional confidences are divulged. Laurel's goal is to help you make your home more beautiful, personal and a really comfortable place in which to live.  You will want to savor every moment of today’s show, so join us today to discover more about Laurel ’s incredible, entrepreneurial journey. Show highlights: How to blog effectively, in order to attract your ideal client. Steps you should take right from the start in order to create a successful blog. Your blog needs to live on a really well-built website. What your 'about' page is truly all about. The nuts and bolts of creating a successful website. Why you need to have a navigation menu on every page of your website. Selecting the most appropriate font for your website. How to avoid overwhelming your readers. How to use primary keywords People want a lot of knowledge, but they also want to be entertained. Figuring out your special secret sauce, and your own, unique voice. Your content has to be rich with relevant information. The importance of having your blog posts indexed. Some things that will help you to create magic in your blog. You can even take your own photos with your phone. Some tips to enhance your photos. Awesome ideas for free gifts for your readers of your blog. Why Laurel loves using Wordpress.com. Selecting information to place in your sidebar. Ways to keep your readers on your website for as long as possible. Learn about the $250 000 that Laurel left on the table for five years of her blogging career. Why you should get yourself onto an advertising network. The importance of blogging consistently. Ways to encourage people to take your surveys. Laurel has written a document called Six-figure Income Blogger, and it's really simple and full of the strategies that she's used, and lessons that she learned the hard way. Go to her website laurelberninteriors.com to get your copy for $199. It's in the first link in the main menu on the left-hand side. Previous episodes mentioned on this show. Claire Jefford #325 Linda Holt #97 Carla Aston #242 Stephan Spence #238 Recommendations: For really awesome geek help, go to Eileen Lonergan Laurel Bern Interiors Instagram: Laurel Bern Free Blogger Guide: Six Figure Income Blogger Guide Tue, 17 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have Laurel Bern, of Laurel Bern Interiors on the show with us today. Laurel Bern is an award-winning New York Interior Designer, blogger, brand ambassador and speaker. Her design work has been featured in national as... Welcome to today's episode! We have Laurel Bern, of Laurel Bern Interiors on the show with us today. Laurel Bern is an award-winning New York Interior Designer, blogger, brand ambassador and speaker. Her design work has been featured in national as well as Westchester County shelter magazines. She is known for a having a young-traditional aesthetic and is one to buck many of the current trends unless they happen to be classic favorites. However, after 21 years as the principle designer in her firm Laurel Bern Interiors, she has turned her focus to blogging as a full-time occupation. Her award-winning blog, Laurel Home has drawn a large following – and by large- I mean with page views in the multiple hundreds of thousands every month- due to her candid style of writing, useful information and warm community of readers. You can see for yourself right on her website, laurelberninteriors.com she earns over $33,000 per month from her blog. Laurel's Rolodex is a comprehensive shopping guide for home furnishings with links to the vendor/manufacturers and features a list of some 180 designer-friendly vendors for interior designers. No professional confidences are divulged. Laurel's goal is to help you make your home more beautiful, personal and a really comfortable place in which to live.  You will want to savor every moment of today’s show, so join us today to discover more about Laurel ’s incredible, entrepreneurial journey. Show highlights: How to blog effectively, in order to attract your ideal client. Steps you should take right from the start in order to create a successful blog. Your blog needs to live on a really well-built website. What your 'about' page is truly all about. The nuts and bolts of creating a successful website. Why you need to have a navigation menu on every page of your website. Selecting the most appropriate font for your website. How to avoid overwhelming your readers. How to use primary keywords People want a lot of knowledge, but they also want to be entertained. Figuring out your special secret sauce, and your own, unique voice. Your content has to be rich with relevant information. The importance of having your blog posts indexed. Some things that will help you to create magic in your blog. You can even take your own photos with your phone. Some tips to enhance your photos. Awesome ideas for free gifts for your readers of your blog. Why Laurel loves using Wordpress.com. Selecting information to place in your sidebar. Ways to keep your readers on your website for as long as possible. Learn about the $250 000 that Laurel left on the table for five years of her blogging career. Why you should get yourself onto an advertising network. The importance of blogging consistently. Ways to encourage people to take your surveys. Laurel has written a document called Six-figure Income Blogger, and it's really simple and full of the strategies that she's used, and lessons that she learned the hard way. Go to her website laurelberninteriors.com to get your copy for $199. It's in the first link in the main menu on the left-hand side. Previous episodes mentioned on this show. Claire Jefford #325 Linda Holt #97 Carla Aston #242 Stephan Spence #238 Recommendations: For really awesome geek help, go to Eileen Lonergan Laurel Bern Interiors Instagram: Laurel Bern Free Blogger Guide: Six Figure Income Blogger Guide Welcome to today's episode! We have Laurel Bern, of Laurel Bern Interiors on the show with us today.

Laurel Bern is an award-winning New York Interior Designer, blogger, brand ambassador and speaker. Her design work has been featured in national as well as Westchester County shelter magazines. She is known for a having a young-traditional aesthetic and is one to buck many of the current trends unless they happen to be classic favorites. However, after 21 years as the principle designer in her firm Laurel Bern Interiors, she has turned her focus to blogging as a full-time occupation. Her award-winning blog, Laurel Home has drawn a large following – and by large- I mean with page views in the multiple hundreds of thousands every month- due to her candid style of writing, useful information and warm community of readers. You can see for yourself right on her website, laurelberninteriors.com she earns over $33,000 per month from her blog.

Laurel's Rolodex is a comprehensive shopping guide for home furnishings with links to the vendor/manufacturers and features a list of some 180 designer-friendly vendors for interior designers. No professional confidences are divulged. Laurel's goal is to help you make your home more beautiful, personal and a really comfortable place in which to live.  You will want to savor every moment of today’s show, so join us today to discover more about Laurel ’s incredible, entrepreneurial journey.

Show highlights:

  • How to blog effectively, in order to attract your ideal client.
  • Steps you should take right from the start in order to create a successful blog.
  • Your blog needs to live on a really well-built website.
  • What your 'about' page is truly all about.
  • The nuts and bolts of creating a successful website.
  • Why you need to have a navigation menu on every page of your website.
  • Selecting the most appropriate font for your website.
  • How to avoid overwhelming your readers.
  • How to use primary keywords
  • People want a lot of knowledge, but they also want to be entertained.
  • Figuring out your special secret sauce, and your own, unique voice.
  • Your content has to be rich with relevant information.
  • The importance of having your blog posts indexed.
  • Some things that will help you to create magic in your blog.
  • You can even take your own photos with your phone.
  • Some tips to enhance your photos.
  • Awesome ideas for free gifts for your readers of your blog.
  • Why Laurel loves using Wordpress.com.
  • Selecting information to place in your sidebar.
  • Ways to keep your readers on your website for as long as possible.
  • Learn about the $250 000 that Laurel left on the table for five years of her blogging career.
  • Why you should get yourself onto an advertising network.
  • The importance of blogging consistently.
  • Ways to encourage people to take your surveys.
  • Laurel has written a document called Six-figure Income Blogger, and it's really simple and full of the strategies that she's used, and lessons that she learned the hard way. Go to her website laurelberninteriors.com to get your copy for $199. It's in the first link in the main menu on the left-hand side.

Previous episodes mentioned on this show.

Claire Jefford #325

Linda Holt #97

Carla Aston #242

Stephan Spence #238

Recommendations:

For really awesome geek help, go to Eileen Lonergan

Laurel Bern Interiors Instagram: Laurel Bern Free Blogger Guide: Six Figure Income Blogger Guide]]> 4795 no 341: Esther “Pinky” Kiss: How to Position Your Interior Design Business to Get PR http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/341-esther-pinky-kiss-how-to-position-your-interior-design-business-to-get-pr Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really happy to introduce you to Esther (Pinky) Kiss today. Pinky is the founder of Born To Influence, a boutique publicity firm that specializes in helping experts and personal brands to get more publicity, leads, and sales. We will be talking to Pinky about how to get your ducks in a row, and understanding what you need to do, in order to be properly prepared for the marketing and PR process, and to gain credibility as an expert in your field. Today's show is geared for the interior designer who is in their own market, with a successful business, who would like to access PR and media opportunities specifically to create more business for their firm. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Pinky has worked on campaigns in a variety of industries, including software as a service, mobile apps, and digital information. She also has a podcast called Born To Influence, The Marketing Show, where although she does not air new interviews at this point, there is still a library available, on iTunes, containing tons of information. Pinky has also been involved in bringing several book launches to national bestseller and New York Times status. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The importance of having certain foundations in place, in order to be seen as an expert in your field. Why you need to be really clear about your goals. What you need to do to cover all the necessary bases, in order to get more clients. Positioning yourself to gain more credibility through publicity. The steps involved in creating an awesome bio to suit your specific needs. An example of a bio containing really compelling information. Creating a bio that will really earn you credibility The next step towards getting some publicity, once you have your bio and website locked down. How to really set yourself apart from the rest. Learning to understand the problems that your potential clients would be facing, and to think the way that your potential clients would be thinking. Creating your Intentional Media Message Content. Creating different pitches to suit different situations. Connecting your expertise to what the media is already interested in. Choosing the right talking points to suit specific media situations. Ways to connect with the right people in the right spaces. Why you should get some local TV experience before attempting to get onto national TV. Examining your underlying skill sets. Looking at big, current news items and connecting to that, to get publicity. All about Pinky's online study course, Publicity Empire. The right time to hire a publicist. Pinky has a free giveaway of her Media Positioning Checklist. Go to borntoinfluence.com/checklist to get it! Links: For the free training segment of Pinky's Publicity Empire online study course go to www.borntoinfluence.com/free-publicity-training Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Amy Flurry episodes #108 and #323 Pulp Design Studio episodes #176 and #310 Christy Leu episode #182 Ren Miller episode #12 Fri, 13 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really happy to introduce you to Esther (Pinky) Kiss today. Pinky is the founder of Born To Influence, a boutique publicity firm that specializes in helping experts and personal brands to get more publicity, leads,... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really happy to introduce you to Esther (Pinky) Kiss today. Pinky is the founder of Born To Influence, a boutique publicity firm that specializes in helping experts and personal brands to get more publicity, leads, and sales. We will be talking to Pinky about how to get your ducks in a row, and understanding what you need to do, in order to be properly prepared for the marketing and PR process, and to gain credibility as an expert in your field. Today's show is geared for the interior designer who is in their own market, with a successful business, who would like to access PR and media opportunities specifically to create more business for their firm. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. Pinky has worked on campaigns in a variety of industries, including software as a service, mobile apps, and digital information. She also has a podcast called Born To Influence, The Marketing Show, where although she does not air new interviews at this point, there is still a library available, on iTunes, containing tons of information. Pinky has also been involved in bringing several book launches to national bestseller and New York Times status. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: The importance of having certain foundations in place, in order to be seen as an expert in your field. Why you need to be really clear about your goals. What you need to do to cover all the necessary bases, in order to get more clients. Positioning yourself to gain more credibility through publicity. The steps involved in creating an awesome bio to suit your specific needs. An example of a bio containing really compelling information. Creating a bio that will really earn you credibility The next step towards getting some publicity, once you have your bio and website locked down. How to really set yourself apart from the rest. Learning to understand the problems that your potential clients would be facing, and to think the way that your potential clients would be thinking. Creating your Intentional Media Message Content. Creating different pitches to suit different situations. Connecting your expertise to what the media is already interested in. Choosing the right talking points to suit specific media situations. Ways to connect with the right people in the right spaces. Why you should get some local TV experience before attempting to get onto national TV. Examining your underlying skill sets. Looking at big, current news items and connecting to that, to get publicity. All about Pinky's online study course, Publicity Empire. The right time to hire a publicist. Pinky has a free giveaway of her Media Positioning Checklist. Go to borntoinfluence.com/checklist to get it! Links: For the free training segment of Pinky's Publicity Empire online study course go to www.borntoinfluence.com/free-publicity-training Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Amy Flurry episodes #108 and #323 Pulp Design Studio episodes #176 and #310 Christy Leu episode #182 Ren Miller episode #12 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are really happy to introduce you to Esther (Pinky) Kiss today. Pinky is the founder of Born To Influence, a boutique publicity firm that specializes in helping experts and personal brands to get more publicity, leads, and sales. We will be talking to Pinky about how to get your ducks in a row, and understanding what you need to do, in order to be properly prepared for the marketing and PR process, and to gain credibility as an expert in your field. Today's show is geared for the interior designer who is in their own market, with a successful business, who would like to access PR and media opportunities specifically to create more business for their firm. Listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today.

Pinky has worked on campaigns in a variety of industries, including software as a service, mobile apps, and digital information. She also has a podcast called Born To Influence, The Marketing Show, where although she does not air new interviews at this point, there is still a library available, on iTunes, containing tons of information. Pinky has also been involved in bringing several book launches to national bestseller and New York Times status. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • The importance of having certain foundations in place, in order to be seen as an expert in your field.
  • Why you need to be really clear about your goals.
  • What you need to do to cover all the necessary bases, in order to get more clients.
  • Positioning yourself to gain more credibility through publicity.
  • The steps involved in creating an awesome bio to suit your specific needs.
  • An example of a bio containing really compelling information.
  • Creating a bio that will really earn you credibility
  • The next step towards getting some publicity, once you have your bio and website locked down.
  • How to really set yourself apart from the rest.
  • Learning to understand the problems that your potential clients would be facing, and to think the way that your potential clients would be thinking.
  • Creating your Intentional Media Message Content.
  • Creating different pitches to suit different situations.
  • Connecting your expertise to what the media is already interested in.
  • Choosing the right talking points to suit specific media situations.
  • Ways to connect with the right people in the right spaces.
  • Why you should get some local TV experience before attempting to get onto national TV.
  • Examining your underlying skill sets.
  • Looking at big, current news items and connecting to that, to get publicity.
  • All about Pinky's online study course, Publicity Empire.
  • The right time to hire a publicist.
  • Pinky has a free giveaway of her Media Positioning Checklist. Go to borntoinfluence.com/checklist to get it!

Links:

For the free training segment of Pinky's Publicity Empire online study course go to www.borntoinfluence.com/free-publicity-training

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Amy Flurry episodes #108 and #323

Pulp Design Studio episodes #176 and #310

Christy Leu episode #182

Ren Miller episode #12

]]> 4293 no 340: Judith Taylor: Strategies for Working with Family and Friends http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/340-danny-j-saved-by-the-daughter-she-gave-up-part-2 Welcome to today's episode. We have Judith Taylor, of Judith Taylor Designs, with us on the show and today we talk to her about navigating the murky waters of working with friends and family. She also talks about the new furniture line that she is launching and her multi-generational heritage of furniture design and manufacture. In addition to studying interior design, Judith also studied at Toronto School of Art, she has a bachelor's degree in psychology and business administration and a past career in IT. These added areas of understanding have provided her with the unique ability to combine practicality, psychology, and aesthetics into her interior design projects. Listen in today to get her really spot-on advice and tips for working with family and friends in a way that won't drive you crazy!         Judith is the founder and principal designer of her award-winning firm which specializes in residential design. She did her formal training in interior design in Toronto, where she received high honors for her work, which is inspired by broadly reaching disciplines. Judith started her career in IT, where she honed her skills in project management and developed a deep understanding of the process and an orientation to details. Today she lives in Toronto's Beaches neighborhood with her family. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: All designers have a friend that they don't want to say 'no' to, or that they wish they hadn't said 'yes' to. What to do when you're approached by someone at a dinner party and they ask for some free advice about interior design. How to gently lead friends to the front door of your business. Using the right language to make it very clear that you are dealing with a business transaction. Sometimes there could be a fair payoff from working with friends or family. Establishing firm boundaries can be really tricky with friends. How a small favor can quickly snowball. Giving yourself a chance to reflect on the reality of the workload of a personal favor. Dealing with friends and family members who push your boundaries. Being clear about what you will and won't do. Explaining to friends and family the amount of work that goes into what you do. Handling discounts appropriately with friends and family. Why you have to be willing to have the hard conversation with friends and family. About the soon-to-be-launched furniture line that Judith has developed. Links:      Judith's furniture line can be found at Silver 4 Home      Blog "Point of View": Judith Taylor Designs      Instagram      Pinterest: Judith Taylor Designs      Facebook: Judith Taylor Designs      Houzz: Judith Taylor Designs To find out more about LuAnn's in-person coaching seminar on 28 July in Las Vegas go to Luann Nigara Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Lee Cockerell #222 Tue, 10 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode. We have Judith Taylor, of Judith Taylor Designs, with us on the show and today we talk to her about navigating the murky waters of working with friends and family. She also talks about the new furniture line that she is... Welcome to today's episode. We have Judith Taylor, of Judith Taylor Designs, with us on the show and today we talk to her about navigating the murky waters of working with friends and family. She also talks about the new furniture line that she is launching and her multi-generational heritage of furniture design and manufacture. In addition to studying interior design, Judith also studied at Toronto School of Art, she has a bachelor's degree in psychology and business administration and a past career in IT. These added areas of understanding have provided her with the unique ability to combine practicality, psychology, and aesthetics into her interior design projects. Listen in today to get her really spot-on advice and tips for working with family and friends in a way that won't drive you crazy!         Judith is the founder and principal designer of her award-winning firm which specializes in residential design. She did her formal training in interior design in Toronto, where she received high honors for her work, which is inspired by broadly reaching disciplines. Judith started her career in IT, where she honed her skills in project management and developed a deep understanding of the process and an orientation to details. Today she lives in Toronto's Beaches neighborhood with her family. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: All designers have a friend that they don't want to say 'no' to, or that they wish they hadn't said 'yes' to. What to do when you're approached by someone at a dinner party and they ask for some free advice about interior design. How to gently lead friends to the front door of your business. Using the right language to make it very clear that you are dealing with a business transaction. Sometimes there could be a fair payoff from working with friends or family. Establishing firm boundaries can be really tricky with friends. How a small favor can quickly snowball. Giving yourself a chance to reflect on the reality of the workload of a personal favor. Dealing with friends and family members who push your boundaries. Being clear about what you will and won't do. Explaining to friends and family the amount of work that goes into what you do. Handling discounts appropriately with friends and family. Why you have to be willing to have the hard conversation with friends and family. About the soon-to-be-launched furniture line that Judith has developed. Links:      Judith's furniture line can be found at Silver 4 Home      Blog "Point of View": Judith Taylor Designs      Instagram      Pinterest: Judith Taylor Designs      Facebook: Judith Taylor Designs      Houzz: Judith Taylor Designs To find out more about LuAnn's in-person coaching seminar on 28 July in Las Vegas go to Luann Nigara Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Lee Cockerell #222 Welcome to today's episode. We have Judith Taylor, of Judith Taylor Designs, with us on the show and today we talk to her about navigating the murky waters of working with friends and family. She also talks about the new furniture line that she is launching and her multi-generational heritage of furniture design and manufacture. In addition to studying interior design, Judith also studied at Toronto School of Art, she has a bachelor's degree in psychology and business administration and a past career in IT. These added areas of understanding have provided her with the unique ability to combine practicality, psychology, and aesthetics into her interior design projects. Listen in today to get her really spot-on advice and tips for working with family and friends in a way that won't drive you crazy!        

Judith is the founder and principal designer of her award-winning firm which specializes in residential design. She did her formal training in interior design in Toronto, where she received high honors for her work, which is inspired by broadly reaching disciplines. Judith started her career in IT, where she honed her skills in project management and developed a deep understanding of the process and an orientation to details. Today she lives in Toronto's Beaches neighborhood with her family. Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • All designers have a friend that they don't want to say 'no' to, or that they wish they hadn't said 'yes' to.
  • What to do when you're approached by someone at a dinner party and they ask for some free advice about interior design.
  • How to gently lead friends to the front door of your business.
  • Using the right language to make it very clear that you are dealing with a business transaction.
  • Sometimes there could be a fair payoff from working with friends or family.
  • Establishing firm boundaries can be really tricky with friends.
  • How a small favor can quickly snowball.
  • Giving yourself a chance to reflect on the reality of the workload of a personal favor.
  • Dealing with friends and family members who push your boundaries.
  • Being clear about what you will and won't do.
  • Explaining to friends and family the amount of work that goes into what you do.
  • Handling discounts appropriately with friends and family.
  • Why you have to be willing to have the hard conversation with friends and family.
  • About the soon-to-be-launched furniture line that Judith has developed.

Links:

     Judith's furniture line can be found at Silver 4 Home

     Blog "Point of View": Judith Taylor Designs

     Instagram

     Pinterest: Judith Taylor Designs

     Facebook: Judith Taylor Designs

     Houzz: Judith Taylor Designs

To find out more about LuAnn's in-person coaching seminar on 28 July in Las Vegas go to Luann Nigara

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Lee Cockerell #222

]]> 4090 no 339: Power Talk Friday: Craig Cody, CPA: The Biggest Mistakes Small Business Owners Make http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/339-power-talk-friday-craig-cody-cpa-the-biggest-mistakes-small-business-owners-make Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking taxes and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Craig Cody. Craig is a certified tax coach, a certified public accountant, a business owner and he is also a former New York City police officer with seventeen years on the force! Pretty impressive, right! Listen in to find out more!    In addition to being a public accountant for the last fifteen years, Craig is also a certified tax coach to a select group of tax practitioners throughout the country. They undergo extensive training and education on various tax-planning techniques and strategies to become (or remain) certified. With this organization, Craig has co-authored an Amazon best-seller, Secrets of a Tax-free Life. On the show today, Craig discusses the services that he offers his clients, and how he saves them money, tax-wise. He also explains how to develop the right relationship with your accountant, and how to ensure that he's the right fit for your business. Listen in today to hear Craig's awesome advice! Show highlights: Craig and his organization have a really pro-active approach to taxation. Why good relationships between business owners and their accountants are really all about great communication. Some questions that designers who have recently started out in business should be asking their accountants. How proper communication with your accountant can significantly affect the amount of taxes that you will have to pay. How to know if an accountant will be the right fit for yourself and your business. Craig explains the way that he works with his clients. Knowing if your business is healthy enough to hire an employee. How Craig's services help his clients make informed decisions. Craig's kind of pro-activity. Some typical tax-mistakes that Craig comes across. Some awesome tax-rebates for home-office designers. Crazy tax-deductions for working kids! How Craig's services differ from those of other accountants. Craig talks about his book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands. To get your free copy of Craig's book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands Links: Website - Craig Cody and Company Facebook - Craig Cody and Company Twitter - Craig Cody & Company Book - Secrets of a Tax Free Life  Fri, 06 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking taxes and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Craig Cody. Craig is a certified tax coach, a certified public accountant, a business owner and he is also a former New York City police... Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking taxes and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Craig Cody. Craig is a certified tax coach, a certified public accountant, a business owner and he is also a former New York City police officer with seventeen years on the force! Pretty impressive, right! Listen in to find out more!    In addition to being a public accountant for the last fifteen years, Craig is also a certified tax coach to a select group of tax practitioners throughout the country. They undergo extensive training and education on various tax-planning techniques and strategies to become (or remain) certified. With this organization, Craig has co-authored an Amazon best-seller, Secrets of a Tax-free Life. On the show today, Craig discusses the services that he offers his clients, and how he saves them money, tax-wise. He also explains how to develop the right relationship with your accountant, and how to ensure that he's the right fit for your business. Listen in today to hear Craig's awesome advice! Show highlights: Craig and his organization have a really pro-active approach to taxation. Why good relationships between business owners and their accountants are really all about great communication. Some questions that designers who have recently started out in business should be asking their accountants. How proper communication with your accountant can significantly affect the amount of taxes that you will have to pay. How to know if an accountant will be the right fit for yourself and your business. Craig explains the way that he works with his clients. Knowing if your business is healthy enough to hire an employee. How Craig's services help his clients make informed decisions. Craig's kind of pro-activity. Some typical tax-mistakes that Craig comes across. Some awesome tax-rebates for home-office designers. Crazy tax-deductions for working kids! How Craig's services differ from those of other accountants. Craig talks about his book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands. To get your free copy of Craig's book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands Links: Website - Craig Cody and Company Facebook - Craig Cody and Company Twitter - Craig Cody & Company Book - Secrets of a Tax Free Life  Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking taxes and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Craig Cody. Craig is a certified tax coach, a certified public accountant, a business owner and he is also a former New York City police officer with seventeen years on the force! Pretty impressive, right! Listen in to find out more!   

In addition to being a public accountant for the last fifteen years, Craig is also a certified tax coach to a select group of tax practitioners throughout the country. They undergo extensive training and education on various tax-planning techniques and strategies to become (or remain) certified. With this organization, Craig has co-authored an Amazon best-seller, Secrets of a Tax-free Life. On the show today, Craig discusses the services that he offers his clients, and how he saves them money, tax-wise. He also explains how to develop the right relationship with your accountant, and how to ensure that he's the right fit for your business. Listen in today to hear Craig's awesome advice!

Show highlights:

  • Craig and his organization have a really pro-active approach to taxation.
  • Why good relationships between business owners and their accountants are really all about great communication.
  • Some questions that designers who have recently started out in business should be asking their accountants.
  • How proper communication with your accountant can significantly affect the amount of taxes that you will have to pay.
  • How to know if an accountant will be the right fit for yourself and your business.
  • Craig explains the way that he works with his clients.
  • Knowing if your business is healthy enough to hire an employee.
  • How Craig's services help his clients make informed decisions.
  • Craig's kind of pro-activity.
  • Some typical tax-mistakes that Craig comes across.
  • Some awesome tax-rebates for home-office designers.
  • Crazy tax-deductions for working kids!
  • How Craig's services differ from those of other accountants.
  • Craig talks about his book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands.

To get your free copy of Craig's book, The Ten Most Expensive Tax Mistakes That Cost Business Owners Thousands

Links:

Website - Craig Cody and Company Facebook - Craig Cody and Company Twitter - Craig Cody & Company Book - Secrets of a Tax Free Life ]]> 2206 no 338: Orlando Soria: Interior Designer, Author, Artist http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/339-orlando-soria-interior-designer-author-artist Welcome! Today we have Orlando Soria, the founder of the blog  Hommemaker, with us on the show. Orlando is a really charming and thoughtful interior designer, writer, and visual artist, from Los Angeles, California, with an unpretentious attitude towards the world, and his place in it. Listen in to our conversation today and find out what he has to say about the way that design, art, and writing can influence the world and the way that people think.   Orlando got his start on HGTV as Emily Henderson‘s on-camera assistant on the home makeover series Secrets From A Stylist. A graduate of Cornell’s University’s College of Architecture, Art and Planning and The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Design, Orlando has been a staple of the design industry for years. His first book, Get It Together!, was released in Spring 2018 and in May of this year, Domino named him as one of the top twenty-nine designers to follow on Instagram. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: All about Orlando's zany brand new book, Get It Together! An Interior Designers Guide to Creating Your Best Life. The creative process that Orlando went through, writing his book. Why Orlando's book really stands out from all other design books. Orlando's humble and unpretentious upbringing. What influenced Orlando's creativity, growing up. Why Orlando really likes to make things. Why Orlando loves Martha Stewart so much! What it was like, being on TV, and what Orlando has learned from the whole experience. Orlando's really lucky break! Orlando's humble attitude towards his strokes of luck. Learning to appreciate the good things that come your way, in life. The struggles that Orlando has gone through, since graduating. Orlando discusses his blog, Hommemaker. Orlando's plans, going forward. Links: Hommemaker website: Homme Maker Orlando on Instagram: Orlando Soria Orlando on Pinterest:  Orlando Soria Orlando on Facebook:  Homme Maker Orlando on Twitter:  Orlando Soria To buy a copy of Orlando's book: Get It Together!: An Interior Designer's Guide to Creating Your Best Life Tue, 03 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we have Orlando Soria, the founder of the blog  Hommemaker, with us on the show. Orlando is a really charming and thoughtful interior designer, writer, and visual artist, from Los Angeles, California, with an unpretentious attitude... Welcome! Today we have Orlando Soria, the founder of the blog  Hommemaker, with us on the show. Orlando is a really charming and thoughtful interior designer, writer, and visual artist, from Los Angeles, California, with an unpretentious attitude towards the world, and his place in it. Listen in to our conversation today and find out what he has to say about the way that design, art, and writing can influence the world and the way that people think.   Orlando got his start on HGTV as Emily Henderson‘s on-camera assistant on the home makeover series Secrets From A Stylist. A graduate of Cornell’s University’s College of Architecture, Art and Planning and The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Design, Orlando has been a staple of the design industry for years. His first book, Get It Together!, was released in Spring 2018 and in May of this year, Domino named him as one of the top twenty-nine designers to follow on Instagram. Listen in today to find out more! Show highlights: All about Orlando's zany brand new book, Get It Together! An Interior Designers Guide to Creating Your Best Life. The creative process that Orlando went through, writing his book. Why Orlando's book really stands out from all other design books. Orlando's humble and unpretentious upbringing. What influenced Orlando's creativity, growing up. Why Orlando really likes to make things. Why Orlando loves Martha Stewart so much! What it was like, being on TV, and what Orlando has learned from the whole experience. Orlando's really lucky break! Orlando's humble attitude towards his strokes of luck. Learning to appreciate the good things that come your way, in life. The struggles that Orlando has gone through, since graduating. Orlando discusses his blog, Hommemaker. Orlando's plans, going forward. Links: Hommemaker website: Homme Maker Orlando on Instagram: Orlando Soria Orlando on Pinterest:  Orlando Soria Orlando on Facebook:  Homme Maker Orlando on Twitter:  Orlando Soria To buy a copy of Orlando's book: Get It Together!: An Interior Designer's Guide to Creating Your Best Life Welcome! Today we have Orlando Soria, the founder of the blog  Hommemaker, with us on the show. Orlando is a really charming and thoughtful interior designer, writer, and visual artist, from Los Angeles, California, with an unpretentious attitude towards the world, and his place in it. Listen in to our conversation today and find out what he has to say about the way that design, art, and writing can influence the world and the way that people think.  

Orlando got his start on HGTV as Emily Henderson‘s on-camera assistant on the home makeover series Secrets From A Stylist. A graduate of Cornell’s University’s College of Architecture, Art and Planning and The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Design, Orlando has been a staple of the design industry for years. His first book, Get It Together!, was released in Spring 2018 and in May of this year, Domino named him as one of the top twenty-nine designers to follow on Instagram. Listen in today to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • All about Orlando's zany brand new book, Get It Together! An Interior Designers Guide to Creating Your Best Life.
  • The creative process that Orlando went through, writing his book.
  • Why Orlando's book really stands out from all other design books.
  • Orlando's humble and unpretentious upbringing.
  • What influenced Orlando's creativity, growing up.
  • Why Orlando really likes to make things.
  • Why Orlando loves Martha Stewart so much!
  • What it was like, being on TV, and what Orlando has learned from the whole experience.
  • Orlando's really lucky break!
  • Orlando's humble attitude towards his strokes of luck.
  • Learning to appreciate the good things that come your way, in life.
  • The struggles that Orlando has gone through, since graduating.
  • Orlando discusses his blog, Hommemaker.
  • Orlando's plans, going forward.

Links:

Hommemaker website: Homme Maker

Orlando on Instagram: Orlando Soria

Orlando on Pinterest:  Orlando Soria

Orlando on Facebook:  Homme Maker

Orlando on Twitter:  Orlando Soria

To buy a copy of Orlando's book:

Get It Together!: An Interior Designer's Guide to Creating Your Best Life

]]> 2781 no 337: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Set and Get Higher Fees http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/337-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-set-and-get-higher-fees Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Fred Berns back on the show today! Fred has been our guest many, many times before and he continues to bring value every time, getting right to the point with his really actionable topics. If you're new to the show, Fred has been on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, and #289 of the podcast. He is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and promotional material for design professionals all over the world, so listen in to find out what he has to share today, about how to set and get higher fees for the work you do. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Why Fred really loves what he does so much. Why so many designers, who work so hard, just aren't realizing the abundance and the prosperity that they deserve. It's been Fred's passion over the years to convince designers to increase their fees dramatically. The number one obstacle that's preventing designers from charging higher fees. What Fred has discovered about some of the most financially successful, high-end designers in the world. High-end clients are used to paying designers high-end fees. Making the decision to make more money- and then focusing on that. Why earning more is all about your mindset. Having the guts to appreciate your value and raise your fees accordingly. Create a list of twenty reasons why you can actually double your fees. You can raise the standard of the whole design industry by charging higher fees. Learning to run your own business by your own rules. Explaining your value to your clients. People with money always have money, regardless of the current financial climate. Focusing on the pain points of your high-end clients, then painting yourself as a caregiver. Positioning yourself as a partner to your high-end clients. What you have to do to double your fees. How to deal with any objections to your price. Small thinking brings about small results. Give yourself permission to earn what you really deserve, and to enjoy financial prosperity! All about Fred's new Platinum Package. Links and contacts: Fred's website: Interior Design Business.net Bio Briefing Website Onceover Fred's email: fred@fredberns.com Fred's phone number: 3035893013 Fri, 29 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Fred Berns back on the show today! Fred has been our guest many, many times before and he continues to bring value every time, getting right to the point with his really actionable topics. If... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Fred Berns back on the show today! Fred has been our guest many, many times before and he continues to bring value every time, getting right to the point with his really actionable topics. If you're new to the show, Fred has been on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, and #289 of the podcast. He is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and promotional material for design professionals all over the world, so listen in to find out what he has to share today, about how to set and get higher fees for the work you do. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Why Fred really loves what he does so much. Why so many designers, who work so hard, just aren't realizing the abundance and the prosperity that they deserve. It's been Fred's passion over the years to convince designers to increase their fees dramatically. The number one obstacle that's preventing designers from charging higher fees. What Fred has discovered about some of the most financially successful, high-end designers in the world. High-end clients are used to paying designers high-end fees. Making the decision to make more money- and then focusing on that. Why earning more is all about your mindset. Having the guts to appreciate your value and raise your fees accordingly. Create a list of twenty reasons why you can actually double your fees. You can raise the standard of the whole design industry by charging higher fees. Learning to run your own business by your own rules. Explaining your value to your clients. People with money always have money, regardless of the current financial climate. Focusing on the pain points of your high-end clients, then painting yourself as a caregiver. Positioning yourself as a partner to your high-end clients. What you have to do to double your fees. How to deal with any objections to your price. Small thinking brings about small results. Give yourself permission to earn what you really deserve, and to enjoy financial prosperity! All about Fred's new Platinum Package. Links and contacts: Fred's website: Interior Design Business.net Bio Briefing Website Onceover Fred's email: fred@fredberns.com Fred's phone number: 3035893013 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Fred Berns back on the show today! Fred has been our guest many, many times before and he continues to bring value every time, getting right to the point with his really actionable topics. If you're new to the show, Fred has been on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, and #289 of the podcast. He is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and promotional material for design professionals all over the world, so listen in to find out what he has to share today, about how to set and get higher fees for the work you do.

Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Why Fred really loves what he does so much.
  • Why so many designers, who work so hard, just aren't realizing the abundance and the prosperity that they deserve.
  • It's been Fred's passion over the years to convince designers to increase their fees dramatically.
  • The number one obstacle that's preventing designers from charging higher fees.
  • What Fred has discovered about some of the most financially successful, high-end designers in the world.
  • High-end clients are used to paying designers high-end fees.
  • Making the decision to make more money- and then focusing on that.
  • Why earning more is all about your mindset.
  • Having the guts to appreciate your value and raise your fees accordingly.
  • Create a list of twenty reasons why you can actually double your fees.
  • You can raise the standard of the whole design industry by charging higher fees.
  • Learning to run your own business by your own rules.
  • Explaining your value to your clients.
  • People with money always have money, regardless of the current financial climate.
  • Focusing on the pain points of your high-end clients, then painting yourself as a caregiver.
  • Positioning yourself as a partner to your high-end clients.
  • What you have to do to double your fees.
  • How to deal with any objections to your price.
  • Small thinking brings about small results.
  • Give yourself permission to earn what you really deserve, and to enjoy financial prosperity!
  • All about Fred's new Platinum Package.

Links and contacts:

Fred's website: Interior Design Business.net

Bio Briefing Website Onceover

Fred's email: fred@fredberns.com

Fred's phone number: 3035893013

]]> 3333 no 336: Kim Hoegger Home: Creating Multi-Revenue Streams http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/336-kim-hoegger-home-creating-multi-revenue-streams Welcome to the show! We have a special episode today, with Kim Hoegger, the award-winning owner, and designer of Kim Hoegger Home. On the show today Kim talks to us about her passion for antiques, retail store ownership, her days as a restaurateur, and also about her thirty plus years of experience in residential and hospitality design. Listen in to find out more. Kim's business sense, her Southern charm, and her hospitality have all helped her create a design firm that delivers sophisticated, yet livable interiors to clients that return project after project. She is a designer with an eye for fresh, personally curated interiors and she brings a sense of warmth to each and every interior project she creates. With her classic, yet eclectic style, she easily mixes the old with the new in a refreshing way. From coastal to cottage, rustic to chic sophisticated, Kim creates interiors where her clients feel at home in spaces that enhance the lives they lead. Listen in to find out what she has to share on today's show! Show highlights: About the exciting launch of Kim's new textile designs! What to expect when you dive right in and go after your dreams. Where to go after working out your initial design concept. Some things to think about that may not have occurred to you before. Having to wear many different hats, as a designer. The awesome advice that Kim received, that really took her to the next level. How Kim managed to align with just the right person! What it really takes to build a platform with your brand- and recognition too. What Kim has accomplished in a really short time, by hiring a publicist. Finding the right balance with a new endeavor. Why you should really get your work professionally photographed. Going after your dreams with your eyes wide open. How Kim handles the sale of her fabrics. Having a licensed product is no sideline- it's another whole business! All about Kim's new retail showroom. Kim really knows her clients well, so her buying process is very streamlined. What's coming up for Kim in the future? Kim's way of re-branding her products. Kim has also started coaching new designers and business owners. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph #39 Steve and Jill McKenzie #304 Tue, 26 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We have a special episode today, with Kim Hoegger, the award-winning owner, and designer of Kim Hoegger Home. On the show today Kim talks to us about her passion for antiques, retail store ownership, her days as a restaurateur,... Welcome to the show! We have a special episode today, with Kim Hoegger, the award-winning owner, and designer of Kim Hoegger Home. On the show today Kim talks to us about her passion for antiques, retail store ownership, her days as a restaurateur, and also about her thirty plus years of experience in residential and hospitality design. Listen in to find out more. Kim's business sense, her Southern charm, and her hospitality have all helped her create a design firm that delivers sophisticated, yet livable interiors to clients that return project after project. She is a designer with an eye for fresh, personally curated interiors and she brings a sense of warmth to each and every interior project she creates. With her classic, yet eclectic style, she easily mixes the old with the new in a refreshing way. From coastal to cottage, rustic to chic sophisticated, Kim creates interiors where her clients feel at home in spaces that enhance the lives they lead. Listen in to find out what she has to share on today's show! Show highlights: About the exciting launch of Kim's new textile designs! What to expect when you dive right in and go after your dreams. Where to go after working out your initial design concept. Some things to think about that may not have occurred to you before. Having to wear many different hats, as a designer. The awesome advice that Kim received, that really took her to the next level. How Kim managed to align with just the right person! What it really takes to build a platform with your brand- and recognition too. What Kim has accomplished in a really short time, by hiring a publicist. Finding the right balance with a new endeavor. Why you should really get your work professionally photographed. Going after your dreams with your eyes wide open. How Kim handles the sale of her fabrics. Having a licensed product is no sideline- it's another whole business! All about Kim's new retail showroom. Kim really knows her clients well, so her buying process is very streamlined. What's coming up for Kim in the future? Kim's way of re-branding her products. Kim has also started coaching new designers and business owners. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph #39 Steve and Jill McKenzie #304 Welcome to the show! We have a special episode today, with Kim Hoegger, the award-winning owner, and designer of Kim Hoegger Home. On the show today Kim talks to us about her passion for antiques, retail store ownership, her days as a restaurateur, and also about her thirty plus years of experience in residential and hospitality design. Listen in to find out more. Kim's business sense, her Southern charm, and her hospitality have all helped her create a design firm that delivers sophisticated, yet livable interiors to clients that return project after project. She is a designer with an eye for fresh, personally curated interiors and she brings a sense of warmth to each and every interior project she creates. With her classic, yet eclectic style, she easily mixes the old with the new in a refreshing way. From coastal to cottage, rustic to chic sophisticated, Kim creates interiors where her clients feel at home in spaces that enhance the lives they lead. Listen in to find out what she has to share on today's show! Show highlights:

  • About the exciting launch of Kim's new textile designs!
  • What to expect when you dive right in and go after your dreams.
  • Where to go after working out your initial design concept.
  • Some things to think about that may not have occurred to you before.
  • Having to wear many different hats, as a designer.
  • The awesome advice that Kim received, that really took her to the next level.
  • How Kim managed to align with just the right person!
  • What it really takes to build a platform with your brand- and recognition too.
  • What Kim has accomplished in a really short time, by hiring a publicist.
  • Finding the right balance with a new endeavor.
  • Why you should really get your work professionally photographed.
  • Going after your dreams with your eyes wide open.
  • How Kim handles the sale of her fabrics.
  • Having a licensed product is no sideline- it's another whole business!
  • All about Kim's new retail showroom.
  • Kim really knows her clients well, so her buying process is very streamlined.
  • What's coming up for Kim in the future?
  • Kim's way of re-branding her products.
  • Kim has also started coaching new designers and business owners.

Other episodes mentioned on this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph #39 Steve and Jill McKenzie #304

]]> 4198 no 335: Power Talk Friday: Jane Stoller: Organizing Your Business and Your Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/335-power-talk-friday-jane-stoller-organizing-your-business-and-your-life Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking organization and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Jane Stolly. Jane is a Lifebizz Organizer, author and university Instructor who found her passion in decluttering spaces, business processes, and closets. The Structure Strategist loves to help companies and individuals getting more organized.  Pretty impressive, right! Listen to today’s episode to find out more! Where Jane's organizing knack comes from? She believes it must be her Swiss roots. Jane's love for organizing began when she was six years old: As a young girl she was often found happily lining up her cats by size, her stuffed animals by color, her books by publication date. What makes Jane's organizing approach unique is her holistic method. She starts redefining your office and continues at your home - or vice versa. The end results of her seminars, coaching and/or consultations? Reduced stress, increased happiness and productivity. "Organizing is a lifestyle, that will help you conquering anything."Jane strongly believes that custom-tailored organizing systems and routines will massively enhance your work and life. By now, she did not only convince numerous friends and her family but also various clients of this mantra. Listen to today’s show to hear Jane’s awesome advice! Show highlights: Learn how to makeover your home or business! Declutter your home and your life to reduce stress. Make your system work for your lifestyle. Learn how to set things up so that you make the most of your time. Learn how Jane’s passion of organizing evolved to a different level of helping clients organizing their businesses with sustainable systems. Reaching out for help with organization is crucial for individual and personal growth. Learn how valuable “outside eyes” looking at your business can be. Re-organizing your business systems or marketing can save you time and money. Jane shares how to look at physical things from a different perspective. Organizing your priorities can save you time. Learn the importance of starting small when organizing. Jane shares how she markets her business outside her circle of influence. Jane shares how she overcomes fear in her own business. Jane shares how she has time to help others pursue their dream businesses. LuAnn encourages designers who are thinking of starting their own businesses to realize they have a lot to offer others and to get started. Links: Order your copy of Organizing for Your Lifestyle: Adaptable Inspirations from Socks to Suitcases is Jane’s book. Website: Organizing for Your Lifestyle Instagram: Organized Jane Stoller Facebook: Organizing Jane Twitter: Organizing Jane Linkedin: Jane Stoller Fri, 22 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking organization and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Jane Stolly. Jane is a Lifebizz Organizer, author and university Instructor who found her passion in decluttering spaces, business... Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking organization and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Jane Stolly. Jane is a Lifebizz Organizer, author and university Instructor who found her passion in decluttering spaces, business processes, and closets. The Structure Strategist loves to help companies and individuals getting more organized.  Pretty impressive, right! Listen to today’s episode to find out more! Where Jane's organizing knack comes from? She believes it must be her Swiss roots. Jane's love for organizing began when she was six years old: As a young girl she was often found happily lining up her cats by size, her stuffed animals by color, her books by publication date. What makes Jane's organizing approach unique is her holistic method. She starts redefining your office and continues at your home - or vice versa. The end results of her seminars, coaching and/or consultations? Reduced stress, increased happiness and productivity. "Organizing is a lifestyle, that will help you conquering anything."Jane strongly believes that custom-tailored organizing systems and routines will massively enhance your work and life. By now, she did not only convince numerous friends and her family but also various clients of this mantra. Listen to today’s show to hear Jane’s awesome advice! Show highlights: Learn how to makeover your home or business! Declutter your home and your life to reduce stress. Make your system work for your lifestyle. Learn how to set things up so that you make the most of your time. Learn how Jane’s passion of organizing evolved to a different level of helping clients organizing their businesses with sustainable systems. Reaching out for help with organization is crucial for individual and personal growth. Learn how valuable “outside eyes” looking at your business can be. Re-organizing your business systems or marketing can save you time and money. Jane shares how to look at physical things from a different perspective. Organizing your priorities can save you time. Learn the importance of starting small when organizing. Jane shares how she markets her business outside her circle of influence. Jane shares how she overcomes fear in her own business. Jane shares how she has time to help others pursue their dream businesses. LuAnn encourages designers who are thinking of starting their own businesses to realize they have a lot to offer others and to get started. Links: Order your copy of Organizing for Your Lifestyle: Adaptable Inspirations from Socks to Suitcases is Jane’s book. Website: Organizing for Your Lifestyle Instagram: Organized Jane Stoller Facebook: Organizing Jane Twitter: Organizing Jane Linkedin: Jane Stoller Welcome to Power talk Friday! Today we're talking organization and we're really happy to introduce you to our guest, Jane Stolly. Jane is a Lifebizz Organizer, author and university Instructor who found her passion in decluttering spaces, business processes, and closets. The Structure Strategist loves to help companies and individuals getting more organized.  Pretty impressive, right! Listen to today’s episode to find out more!

Where Jane's organizing knack comes from? She believes it must be her Swiss roots. Jane's love for organizing began when she was six years old: As a young girl she was often found happily lining up her cats by size, her stuffed animals by color, her books by publication date. What makes Jane's organizing approach unique is her holistic method. She starts redefining your office and continues at your home - or vice versa. The end results of her seminars, coaching and/or consultations? Reduced stress, increased happiness and productivity. "Organizing is a lifestyle, that will help you conquering anything."Jane strongly believes that custom-tailored organizing systems and routines will massively enhance your work and life. By now, she did not only convince numerous friends and her family but also various clients of this mantra. Listen to today’s show to hear Jane’s awesome advice!

Show highlights:

  • Learn how to makeover your home or business!
  • Declutter your home and your life to reduce stress.
  • Make your system work for your lifestyle.
  • Learn how to set things up so that you make the most of your time.
  • Learn how Jane’s passion of organizing evolved to a different level of helping clients organizing their businesses with sustainable systems.
  • Reaching out for help with organization is crucial for individual and personal growth.
  • Learn how valuable “outside eyes” looking at your business can be.
  • Re-organizing your business systems or marketing can save you time and money.
  • Jane shares how to look at physical things from a different perspective.
  • Organizing your priorities can save you time.
  • Learn the importance of starting small when organizing.
  • Jane shares how she markets her business outside her circle of influence.
  • Jane shares how she overcomes fear in her own business.
  • Jane shares how she has time to help others pursue their dream businesses.
  • LuAnn encourages designers who are thinking of starting their own businesses to realize they have a lot to offer others and to get started.

Links:

Order your copy of Organizing for Your Lifestyle: Adaptable Inspirations from Socks to Suitcases is Jane’s book.

Website: Organizing for Your Lifestyle

Instagram: Organized Jane Stoller

Facebook: Organizing Jane

Twitter: Organizing Jane

Linkedin: Jane Stoller

]]> 3273 no 334: Deborah Pegher: Relationships with Your Area Design Center http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/334-deborah-pegher-relationships-with-your-area-design-center Welcome to the show! Today we have a great opportunity to showcase another career you might consider if you're looking for a slightly different angle within the design industry. We have Debbie Pegher, a long-time listener who is also an all-around amazing cheerleader of this podcast as our guest! Debbie is the showroom manager of   Century Furniture, in the Washington Design Center and she has more than thirty years of experience as a designer working in retail, a design studio, and having her own design firm before she became the manager at Century. Listen in to find out more. Debbie serves as the board of directors of The Washington Design Center and she regularly hosts events for the design community in the 5000 square foot Century showroom. She served as membership director of the ASID Washington Metro Chapter from 2014 to 2016. Century Furniture was awarded Best Made in America, in 2012, by  Made, a non-profit which honors excellence in American design, with Debbie's expertise. Furniture from Century was featured at the National Reagan Airport, and this honor culminated in an invitation to the US Capital, to watch the fireworks show, on 4th July. Debbie's leadership has earned her and the DC team at Century Showroom of the Year twice, most recently in 2017, with the best sales record recorded, for their showroom! Debbie credits and shares this with her co-worker, Gloria Domingez, a seasoned and talented design-oriented member of this two-person team. Listen in to find out what Debbie has to say today! Show highlights: Debbie gives a detailed explanation of how being an interior designer for so many years has informed her ideas and decisions at Century Furniture. The wonderfully welcoming approach of the staff at the Century Furniture showroom towards designers. About the fantastic team at Century- including those based at the factory in North Carolina. The real human kind of client experience that's to be found at the Century Furniture showroom. The willingness of Century to customize items, if required. The importance of treating all designers, including the young and junior ones, really well. Some of the things that Debbie has instituted at the showroom to welcome, and also to teach designers. Although it's a trade-only showroom, they still encourage the public in to come in and browse. How it really pays off for designers to create great relationships with design showrooms. The awesome events that Debbie hosts at the showroom at the Washington Center. The new and exciting events that Debbie has coming up for the Summer season. It's all about who you know- and who knows you! How Century services work 'the Century way', to avoid any problems. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Kristen McLaughlin #319 Links: Century Furniture Instagram: Century Furniture Facebook: Century Furniture Linkedin: Debbie Pegher Instagram: Wash Design Ctr Facebook: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Wash Design Ctr Pinterest: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Century Furniture Pinterest: Century Furniture Tue, 19 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! Today we have a great opportunity to showcase another career you might consider if you're looking for a slightly different angle within the design industry. We have Debbie Pegher, a long-time listener who is also an all-around... Welcome to the show! Today we have a great opportunity to showcase another career you might consider if you're looking for a slightly different angle within the design industry. We have Debbie Pegher, a long-time listener who is also an all-around amazing cheerleader of this podcast as our guest! Debbie is the showroom manager of   Century Furniture, in the Washington Design Center and she has more than thirty years of experience as a designer working in retail, a design studio, and having her own design firm before she became the manager at Century. Listen in to find out more. Debbie serves as the board of directors of The Washington Design Center and she regularly hosts events for the design community in the 5000 square foot Century showroom. She served as membership director of the ASID Washington Metro Chapter from 2014 to 2016. Century Furniture was awarded Best Made in America, in 2012, by  Made, a non-profit which honors excellence in American design, with Debbie's expertise. Furniture from Century was featured at the National Reagan Airport, and this honor culminated in an invitation to the US Capital, to watch the fireworks show, on 4th July. Debbie's leadership has earned her and the DC team at Century Showroom of the Year twice, most recently in 2017, with the best sales record recorded, for their showroom! Debbie credits and shares this with her co-worker, Gloria Domingez, a seasoned and talented design-oriented member of this two-person team. Listen in to find out what Debbie has to say today! Show highlights: Debbie gives a detailed explanation of how being an interior designer for so many years has informed her ideas and decisions at Century Furniture. The wonderfully welcoming approach of the staff at the Century Furniture showroom towards designers. About the fantastic team at Century- including those based at the factory in North Carolina. The real human kind of client experience that's to be found at the Century Furniture showroom. The willingness of Century to customize items, if required. The importance of treating all designers, including the young and junior ones, really well. Some of the things that Debbie has instituted at the showroom to welcome, and also to teach designers. Although it's a trade-only showroom, they still encourage the public in to come in and browse. How it really pays off for designers to create great relationships with design showrooms. The awesome events that Debbie hosts at the showroom at the Washington Center. The new and exciting events that Debbie has coming up for the Summer season. It's all about who you know- and who knows you! How Century services work 'the Century way', to avoid any problems. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Kristen McLaughlin #319 Links: Century Furniture Instagram: Century Furniture Facebook: Century Furniture Linkedin: Debbie Pegher Instagram: Wash Design Ctr Facebook: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Wash Design Ctr Pinterest: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Century Furniture Pinterest: Century Furniture Welcome to the show! Today we have a great opportunity to showcase another career you might consider if you're looking for a slightly different angle within the design industry. We have Debbie Pegher, a long-time listener who is also an all-around amazing cheerleader of this podcast as our guest! Debbie is the showroom manager of   Century Furniture, in the Washington Design Center and she has more than thirty years of experience as a designer working in retail, a design studio, and having her own design firm before she became the manager at Century. Listen in to find out more.

Debbie serves as the board of directors of The Washington Design Center and she regularly hosts events for the design community in the 5000 square foot Century showroom. She served as membership director of the ASID Washington Metro Chapter from 2014 to 2016. Century Furniture was awarded Best Made in America, in 2012, by  Made, a non-profit which honors excellence in American design, with Debbie's expertise. Furniture from Century was featured at the National Reagan Airport, and this honor culminated in an invitation to the US Capital, to watch the fireworks show, on 4th July. Debbie's leadership has earned her and the DC team at Century Showroom of the Year twice, most recently in 2017, with the best sales record recorded, for their showroom! Debbie credits and shares this with her co-worker, Gloria Domingez, a seasoned and talented design-oriented member of this two-person team. Listen in to find out what Debbie has to say today!

Show highlights:

  • Debbie gives a detailed explanation of how being an interior designer for so many years has informed her ideas and decisions at Century Furniture.
  • The wonderfully welcoming approach of the staff at the Century Furniture showroom towards designers.
  • About the fantastic team at Century- including those based at the factory in North Carolina.
  • The real human kind of client experience that's to be found at the Century Furniture showroom.
  • The willingness of Century to customize items, if required.
  • The importance of treating all designers, including the young and junior ones, really well.
  • Some of the things that Debbie has instituted at the showroom to welcome, and also to teach designers.
  • Although it's a trade-only showroom, they still encourage the public in to come in and browse.
  • How it really pays off for designers to create great relationships with design showrooms.
  • The awesome events that Debbie hosts at the showroom at the Washington Center.
  • The new and exciting events that Debbie has coming up for the Summer season.
  • It's all about who you know- and who knows you!
  • How Century services work 'the Century way', to avoid any problems.

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Kristen McLaughlin #319

Links:

Century Furniture Instagram: Century Furniture Facebook: Century Furniture Linkedin: Debbie Pegher Instagram: Wash Design Ctr Facebook: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Wash Design Ctr Pinterest: The Washington Design Center Twitter: Century Furniture Pinterest: Century Furniture]]> 3530 no 333: Power Talk Friday: Design and Build Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/333-power-talk-friday-design-and-build-your-interior-design-business Welcome to today's show! Do you ever feel overwhelmed with all the zillions of ideas running through your head about how to improve your business? If so, you are not alone! We have heard so many of you saying in coaching, mastermind or one-on-one sessions that as much as you love the podcast, it can sometimes be the at the root of that feeling of panic. Running your own business is crazy and when you come to the podcast for help, you get it and then you land up with a notebook full of everything that you should be doing in your business.  But, this can really be daunting if you don't have someone to help you prioritize and execute those ideas, so listen in today, to find out how we've been inspired to help you with this. The Power Talk Friday Tour is one of the solutions that LuAnn has come up with. She is inviting you to spend the day with her and with four selected experts from the Power Talk Friday shows and they will all deliver their very best to you. As long as you have a genuine desire to do the work, we promise to help you figure out the plan that is best for you. And it really doesn't matter if you're six months, six years, or even thirty-six years into your business! If you're interested in working hard and working smart, we're interested in working alongside you and we want to give you the tools to make it possible. Listen in now to find out more about the Power Talk Friday Tour -Las Vegas! Show highlights: For the Power Talk Friday Tour- Las Vegas you will spend time with Vince Nigara, Sarah Daniele, Nancy Ganzekaupher and Mark McDonough. What you can expect at the Power Talk Friday Tour. A great opportunity for you to access real-time advice and create relationships of quality and merit. Why we have included small breakout groups. An added bonus that you can expect from the sponsors. In addition to Sarah Daniele, Grace McNamara and John Dupra will be joining us too! What you can learn from Grace McNamara. How Revel Woods can help you be more profitable and serve your clients better. The awesome kind of connections that you will make with your fellow attendees. Re-listen to some of the shows to get to know your Las Vegas team of experts a little better: #78 Vin Nigara, #91 Sarah Daniele, #15, #159 and #256 Nancy Ganzekaupher, #110 Mark McDonough. LuAnn will be doing what she always does- break it all down, summarize it and give you ways to think about the new information. About the four books that LuAnn had in mind to support this endeavor. How the Power Talk Friday experts can really help you. The real beauty of the Power Talk Friday Tour! Fri, 15 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! Do you ever feel overwhelmed with all the zillions of ideas running through your head about how to improve your business? If so, you are not alone! We have heard so many of you saying in coaching, mastermind or one-on-one... Welcome to today's show! Do you ever feel overwhelmed with all the zillions of ideas running through your head about how to improve your business? If so, you are not alone! We have heard so many of you saying in coaching, mastermind or one-on-one sessions that as much as you love the podcast, it can sometimes be the at the root of that feeling of panic. Running your own business is crazy and when you come to the podcast for help, you get it and then you land up with a notebook full of everything that you should be doing in your business.  But, this can really be daunting if you don't have someone to help you prioritize and execute those ideas, so listen in today, to find out how we've been inspired to help you with this. The Power Talk Friday Tour is one of the solutions that LuAnn has come up with. She is inviting you to spend the day with her and with four selected experts from the Power Talk Friday shows and they will all deliver their very best to you. As long as you have a genuine desire to do the work, we promise to help you figure out the plan that is best for you. And it really doesn't matter if you're six months, six years, or even thirty-six years into your business! If you're interested in working hard and working smart, we're interested in working alongside you and we want to give you the tools to make it possible. Listen in now to find out more about the Power Talk Friday Tour -Las Vegas! Show highlights: For the Power Talk Friday Tour- Las Vegas you will spend time with Vince Nigara, Sarah Daniele, Nancy Ganzekaupher and Mark McDonough. What you can expect at the Power Talk Friday Tour. A great opportunity for you to access real-time advice and create relationships of quality and merit. Why we have included small breakout groups. An added bonus that you can expect from the sponsors. In addition to Sarah Daniele, Grace McNamara and John Dupra will be joining us too! What you can learn from Grace McNamara. How Revel Woods can help you be more profitable and serve your clients better. The awesome kind of connections that you will make with your fellow attendees. Re-listen to some of the shows to get to know your Las Vegas team of experts a little better: #78 Vin Nigara, #91 Sarah Daniele, #15, #159 and #256 Nancy Ganzekaupher, #110 Mark McDonough. LuAnn will be doing what she always does- break it all down, summarize it and give you ways to think about the new information. About the four books that LuAnn had in mind to support this endeavor. How the Power Talk Friday experts can really help you. The real beauty of the Power Talk Friday Tour! Welcome to today's show! Do you ever feel overwhelmed with all the zillions of ideas running through your head about how to improve your business? If so, you are not alone! We have heard so many of you saying in coaching, mastermind or one-on-one sessions that as much as you love the podcast, it can sometimes be the at the root of that feeling of panic. Running your own business is crazy and when you come to the podcast for help, you get it and then you land up with a notebook full of everything that you should be doing in your business.  But, this can really be daunting if you don't have someone to help you prioritize and execute those ideas, so listen in today, to find out how we've been inspired to help you with this.

The Power Talk Friday Tour is one of the solutions that LuAnn has come up with. She is inviting you to spend the day with her and with four selected experts from the Power Talk Friday shows and they will all deliver their very best to you. As long as you have a genuine desire to do the work, we promise to help you figure out the plan that is best for you. And it really doesn't matter if you're six months, six years, or even thirty-six years into your business! If you're interested in working hard and working smart, we're interested in working alongside you and we want to give you the tools to make it possible. Listen in now to find out more about the Power Talk Friday Tour -Las Vegas!

Show highlights:

  • For the Power Talk Friday Tour- Las Vegas you will spend time with Vince Nigara, Sarah Daniele, Nancy Ganzekaupher and Mark McDonough.
  • What you can expect at the Power Talk Friday Tour.
  • A great opportunity for you to access real-time advice and create relationships of quality and merit.
  • Why we have included small breakout groups.
  • An added bonus that you can expect from the sponsors.
  • In addition to Sarah Daniele, Grace McNamara and John Dupra will be joining us too!
  • What you can learn from Grace McNamara.
  • How Revel Woods can help you be more profitable and serve your clients better.
  • The awesome kind of connections that you will make with your fellow attendees.
  • Re-listen to some of the shows to get to know your Las Vegas team of experts a little better: #78 Vin Nigara, #91 Sarah Daniele, #15, #159 and #256 Nancy Ganzekaupher, #110 Mark McDonough.
  • LuAnn will be doing what she always does- break it all down, summarize it and give you ways to think about the new information.
  • About the four books that LuAnn had in mind to support this endeavor.
  • How the Power Talk Friday experts can really help you.
  • The real beauty of the Power Talk Friday Tour!
]]> 1807 no 332: Jenny Madden Design: Husband & Wife Series http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/-332-jenny-madden-design-husband-wife-series Welcome to today's show! We have another in the series of husband and wife teams today and our guests are Jenny and Greg Madden, of Jenny Madden Design in Hoboken New Jersey. Today's interview is packed with valuable insights about knowing when it's the right time to employ an operations manager, how to work out if you can actually afford it, and the results that you could expect to get after placing someone in that role. Jenny and Greg truly are the real deal and they really have it together, so listen in today to find out what they have to share today. In the interview, LuAnn makes a point of complimenting Jenny and Greg on their About Us page, so we have decided to give you their company bio here, so that you can have an opportunity to see for yourselves just how deftly it conveys Jenny's skill and expertise, how it calls to their ideal client and expresses the way that they handle their projects with respect to budget, time, and the overall client experience. Listen in to find out more! Jenny Madden Design Bio At Jenny Madden Design, we take great pride in our client focus. We will not push a cookie cutter, signature-style onto your home. Instead, we’ll listen to your unique needs, dreams, and goals to create spaces that align with your design style and enhance your lifestyle. We also understand the importance of sticking to a budget. We specialize in mid-to-high-end furnishings, which will be of lasting quality and uncommon design. To that end, we’ve built relationships with a wide range of trade-only vendors, allowing us to bring you those sources at an exceptional value, making the most of each client’s budget. Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design. Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount. At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients. Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home. Show highlights: The really awesome About Us page at Jenny Madden Design. Some tips from Jenny and Greg's experience of working together. Making the decision to put all their eggs in one basket. Why it was really necessary to have someone in an operations role. Greg as a pioneer in the work/family role. Greg and Jenny's really supportive relationship. The evaluation process they used for crunching the numbers. Their plan for dealing with their downward change financially. The benefits of having a fixed agreement for the business. How they've managed to keep on track with their projections. The way that their relationship has developed in the business. The importance of having great communication when working together. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrea Schumacher #86 and then a replay on #275 Links: Contact details for Jenny Madden Design: website: Jenny Madden Design email: info@jennymaddendesign.com phone: 908-273-1634 office: 50 Harrison Street, Suite 202B Hoboken, NJ 07030 showroom: W Hoboken Living Room, 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 Tue, 12 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have another in the series of husband and wife teams today and our guests are Jenny and Greg Madden, of Jenny Madden Design in Hoboken New Jersey. Today's interview is packed with valuable insights about knowing when it's... Welcome to today's show! We have another in the series of husband and wife teams today and our guests are Jenny and Greg Madden, of Jenny Madden Design in Hoboken New Jersey. Today's interview is packed with valuable insights about knowing when it's the right time to employ an operations manager, how to work out if you can actually afford it, and the results that you could expect to get after placing someone in that role. Jenny and Greg truly are the real deal and they really have it together, so listen in today to find out what they have to share today. In the interview, LuAnn makes a point of complimenting Jenny and Greg on their About Us page, so we have decided to give you their company bio here, so that you can have an opportunity to see for yourselves just how deftly it conveys Jenny's skill and expertise, how it calls to their ideal client and expresses the way that they handle their projects with respect to budget, time, and the overall client experience. Listen in to find out more! Jenny Madden Design Bio At Jenny Madden Design, we take great pride in our client focus. We will not push a cookie cutter, signature-style onto your home. Instead, we’ll listen to your unique needs, dreams, and goals to create spaces that align with your design style and enhance your lifestyle. We also understand the importance of sticking to a budget. We specialize in mid-to-high-end furnishings, which will be of lasting quality and uncommon design. To that end, we’ve built relationships with a wide range of trade-only vendors, allowing us to bring you those sources at an exceptional value, making the most of each client’s budget. Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design. Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount. At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients. Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home. Show highlights: The really awesome About Us page at Jenny Madden Design. Some tips from Jenny and Greg's experience of working together. Making the decision to put all their eggs in one basket. Why it was really necessary to have someone in an operations role. Greg as a pioneer in the work/family role. Greg and Jenny's really supportive relationship. The evaluation process they used for crunching the numbers. Their plan for dealing with their downward change financially. The benefits of having a fixed agreement for the business. How they've managed to keep on track with their projections. The way that their relationship has developed in the business. The importance of having great communication when working together. Other episodes mentioned on the show: Andrea Schumacher #86 and then a replay on #275 Links: Contact details for Jenny Madden Design: website: Jenny Madden Design email: info@jennymaddendesign.com phone: 908-273-1634 office: 50 Harrison Street, Suite 202B Hoboken, NJ 07030 showroom: W Hoboken Living Room, 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 Welcome to today's show! We have another in the series of husband and wife teams today and our guests are Jenny and Greg Madden, of Jenny Madden Design in Hoboken New Jersey. Today's interview is packed with valuable insights about knowing when it's the right time to employ an operations manager, how to work out if you can actually afford it, and the results that you could expect to get after placing someone in that role. Jenny and Greg truly are the real deal and they really have it together, so listen in today to find out what they have to share today.

In the interview, LuAnn makes a point of complimenting Jenny and Greg on their About Us page, so we have decided to give you their company bio here, so that you can have an opportunity to see for yourselves just how deftly it conveys Jenny's skill and expertise, how it calls to their ideal client and expresses the way that they handle their projects with respect to budget, time, and the overall client experience. Listen in to find out more!

Jenny Madden Design Bio

At Jenny Madden Design, we take great pride in our client focus. We will not push a cookie cutter, signature-style onto your home. Instead, we’ll listen to your unique needs, dreams, and goals to create spaces that align with your design style and enhance your lifestyle. We also understand the importance of sticking to a budget. We specialize in mid-to-high-end furnishings, which will be of lasting quality and uncommon design. To that end, we’ve built relationships with a wide range of trade-only vendors, allowing us to bring you those sources at an exceptional value, making the most of each client’s budget.

Jenny Madden Design has been in business designing beautiful spaces since 2011. Prior to founding Jenny Madden Design, Jenny acquired formal training from top-tier programs in both Architecture (BA, Columbia University) and Interior Design (MS, Drexel University). She then gained invaluable professional experience across multiple facets of the industry, including construction management, architecture, furniture sales and interior design. The years she spent working for a general contractor, managing large-scale construction projects, are particularly unique within the interior design industry. This breadth of experience places Jenny Madden Design in the distinctive position to not only design beautiful interiors but to successfully manage projects through to completion. Jenny is able to speak the language of the broader industry and build successful partnerships with architects, builders, and vendors. She understands that a smooth, professional project experience is as important to her busy clients as an excellent aesthetic design.

Jenny built out her team to ensure she has the right mix of talent to enhance and support your project. Stefania and Maggie support the design and drafting phases, while Greg keeps operations and budgets tightly controlled. Our goal as a firm is to maintain boutique customization while providing the systems and support typically reserved for firms with a larger headcount.

At the end of the day, we believe our portfolio speaks for itself. We love that our work has been recognized in local and national publications, both in print and online. But we take the most pride in our ever-growing list of happy clients.

Jenny Madden Design offers luxury interior design services in the greater New York City area, based out of our Hoboken, NJ office. Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a gut renovation or looking to furnish your existing space, our interior design team will guide you through the design process and into your dream home.

Show highlights:

  • The really awesome About Us page at Jenny Madden Design.
  • Some tips from Jenny and Greg's experience of working together.
  • Making the decision to put all their eggs in one basket.
  • Why it was really necessary to have someone in an operations role.
  • Greg as a pioneer in the work/family role.
  • Greg and Jenny's really supportive relationship.
  • The evaluation process they used for crunching the numbers.
  • Their plan for dealing with their downward change financially.
  • The benefits of having a fixed agreement for the business.
  • How they've managed to keep on track with their projections.
  • The way that their relationship has developed in the business.
  • The importance of having great communication when working together.

Other episodes mentioned on the show:

Andrea Schumacher #86 and then a replay on #275

Links:

Contact details for Jenny Madden Design:

website: Jenny Madden Design email: info@jennymaddendesign.com

phone: 908-273-1634 office: 50 Harrison Street, Suite 202B Hoboken, NJ 07030 showroom: W Hoboken Living Room, 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030

]]> 3938 no 331: Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/331-kate-ahl-pinterest-for-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to today's episode! We're very happy to finally be doing our second show on Pinterest today and we have Kate Ahl, the owner of Simple Pin Media, on the show with us. Kate teaches Pinterest marketing and she is really passionate about helping bloggers, content creators, and small business owners to grow by using Pinterest for their business. If you don't really have your Pinterest locked down as yet, you can go back and listen in to episode #292 with Summer Tannhauser to get the basics, because today, Kate and LuAnn will take you onto the next step. You're really in for a treat, so listen in now to find out more! Kate does full-service management of people's Pinterest accounts and she also does consult calls with people who really need to get their Pinterest house in order. Kate originally started Simple Pin as a way to help her blogger friends to focus on creating content for their blogs and now, four years later, she has worked with more than four hundred accounts and she has one hundred management clients on her books. Simple Pin was started on a whim and a prayer that it could provide for a family financially when they were living off government assistance and only $1000 per month! Kate runs Simple Pin out of her She Shed in her garden, and she even has a Pinterest board devoted to her She Shed ideas. She finds working from home a peaceful way to balance her family life, as she has three kids and also a bonus foster baby to care for. Kate and her husband are passionate about running their businesses in a way that allows them the space to do great things that can really impact their community. Kate often gets asked to speak on Pinterest and she has spoken at Build Your Blog Conference, Indulge and Blended, SNAP, and Social Media Marketing World. This year, she will be speaking at Activate, Everything Food, and Fincon. She really loves speaking about Pinterest, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today! Show highlights: Pinterest is actually a search engine- it's like a visual Google! Some things that you really need to know, to make your Pinterest more effective and to drive more people to your website. The importance of having the right kind of images on Pinterest. Supplying the right information about your images on Pinterest. The two types of people to be found on Pinterest. Pinterest is a place where people go to dream and plan- and to save their ideas. How to specify where you are located on Pinterest. Telling your story with catchy phrases on your pins. Thinking about your clients' pain points when creating your posts. Earning people's trust with Pinterest. Thinking of your website as a central hub. Why you, as a designer, should encourage your clients to create a Pinterest board. Innovative ways of creating your various Pinterest boards. Why it's still really worth using Pinterest, even though it can take a while to build up steam. How Pinterest is actually designed to help people take action. Some tips for your best pinning practices. Why it's okay to use the same images over and over again! Why you really have to listen to the Simple Pin Podcast! All about Kate's Full Pinterest Planner- you can download it for free at Simple Pin Media! Other episodes mentioned on today's show: Summer Tannhauser #292 Allison Fannin #223 Leslie Carothers (Savour Partnership) #209 Links: Website: Simple Pin Media Pinterest: Simple Pin Media Facebook: Simple Pin Media Twitter: Simple Pin Media Podcast: Simple Pin Media Podcast Fri, 08 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We're very happy to finally be doing our second show on Pinterest today and we have Kate Ahl, the owner of Simple Pin Media, on the show with us. Kate teaches Pinterest marketing and she is really passionate about helping... Welcome to today's episode! We're very happy to finally be doing our second show on Pinterest today and we have Kate Ahl, the owner of Simple Pin Media, on the show with us. Kate teaches Pinterest marketing and she is really passionate about helping bloggers, content creators, and small business owners to grow by using Pinterest for their business. If you don't really have your Pinterest locked down as yet, you can go back and listen in to episode #292 with Summer Tannhauser to get the basics, because today, Kate and LuAnn will take you onto the next step. You're really in for a treat, so listen in now to find out more! Kate does full-service management of people's Pinterest accounts and she also does consult calls with people who really need to get their Pinterest house in order. Kate originally started Simple Pin as a way to help her blogger friends to focus on creating content for their blogs and now, four years later, she has worked with more than four hundred accounts and she has one hundred management clients on her books. Simple Pin was started on a whim and a prayer that it could provide for a family financially when they were living off government assistance and only $1000 per month! Kate runs Simple Pin out of her She Shed in her garden, and she even has a Pinterest board devoted to her She Shed ideas. She finds working from home a peaceful way to balance her family life, as she has three kids and also a bonus foster baby to care for. Kate and her husband are passionate about running their businesses in a way that allows them the space to do great things that can really impact their community. Kate often gets asked to speak on Pinterest and she has spoken at Build Your Blog Conference, Indulge and Blended, SNAP, and Social Media Marketing World. This year, she will be speaking at Activate, Everything Food, and Fincon. She really loves speaking about Pinterest, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today! Show highlights: Pinterest is actually a search engine- it's like a visual Google! Some things that you really need to know, to make your Pinterest more effective and to drive more people to your website. The importance of having the right kind of images on Pinterest. Supplying the right information about your images on Pinterest. The two types of people to be found on Pinterest. Pinterest is a place where people go to dream and plan- and to save their ideas. How to specify where you are located on Pinterest. Telling your story with catchy phrases on your pins. Thinking about your clients' pain points when creating your posts. Earning people's trust with Pinterest. Thinking of your website as a central hub. Why you, as a designer, should encourage your clients to create a Pinterest board. Innovative ways of creating your various Pinterest boards. Why it's still really worth using Pinterest, even though it can take a while to build up steam. How Pinterest is actually designed to help people take action. Some tips for your best pinning practices. Why it's okay to use the same images over and over again! Why you really have to listen to the Simple Pin Podcast! All about Kate's Full Pinterest Planner- you can download it for free at Simple Pin Media! Other episodes mentioned on today's show: Summer Tannhauser #292 Allison Fannin #223 Leslie Carothers (Savour Partnership) #209 Links: Website: Simple Pin Media Pinterest: Simple Pin Media Facebook: Simple Pin Media Twitter: Simple Pin Media Podcast: Simple Pin Media Podcast Welcome to today's episode! We're very happy to finally be doing our second show on Pinterest today and we have Kate Ahl, the owner of Simple Pin Media, on the show with us. Kate teaches Pinterest marketing and she is really passionate about helping bloggers, content creators, and small business owners to grow by using Pinterest for their business. If you don't really have your Pinterest locked down as yet, you can go back and listen in to episode #292 with Summer Tannhauser to get the basics, because today, Kate and LuAnn will take you onto the next step. You're really in for a treat, so listen in now to find out more!

Kate does full-service management of people's Pinterest accounts and she also does consult calls with people who really need to get their Pinterest house in order. Kate originally started Simple Pin as a way to help her blogger friends to focus on creating content for their blogs and now, four years later, she has worked with more than four hundred accounts and she has one hundred management clients on her books.

Simple Pin was started on a whim and a prayer that it could provide for a family financially when they were living off government assistance and only $1000 per month! Kate runs Simple Pin out of her She Shed in her garden, and she even has a Pinterest board devoted to her She Shed ideas. She finds working from home a peaceful way to balance her family life, as she has three kids and also a bonus foster baby to care for. Kate and her husband are passionate about running their businesses in a way that allows them the space to do great things that can really impact their community. Kate often gets asked to speak on Pinterest and she has spoken at Build Your Blog Conference, Indulge and Blended, SNAP, and Social Media Marketing World. This year, she will be speaking at Activate, Everything Food, and Fincon. She really loves speaking about Pinterest, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today!

Show highlights:

  • Pinterest is actually a search engine- it's like a visual Google!
  • Some things that you really need to know, to make your Pinterest more effective and to drive more people to your website.
  • The importance of having the right kind of images on Pinterest.
  • Supplying the right information about your images on Pinterest.
  • The two types of people to be found on Pinterest.
  • Pinterest is a place where people go to dream and plan- and to save their ideas.
  • How to specify where you are located on Pinterest.
  • Telling your story with catchy phrases on your pins.
  • Thinking about your clients' pain points when creating your posts.
  • Earning people's trust with Pinterest.
  • Thinking of your website as a central hub.
  • Why you, as a designer, should encourage your clients to create a Pinterest board.
  • Innovative ways of creating your various Pinterest boards.
  • Why it's still really worth using Pinterest, even though it can take a while to build up steam.
  • How Pinterest is actually designed to help people take action.
  • Some tips for your best pinning practices.
  • Why it's okay to use the same images over and over again!
  • Why you really have to listen to the Simple Pin Podcast!
  • All about Kate's Full Pinterest Planner- you can download it for free at Simple Pin Media!

Other episodes mentioned on today's show:

Summer Tannhauser #292

Allison Fannin #223

Leslie Carothers (Savour Partnership) #209 Links:

Website: Simple Pin Media Pinterest: Simple Pin Media Facebook: Simple Pin Media Twitter: Simple Pin Media Podcast: Simple Pin Media Podcast]]> 3904 no 330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/330-darla-powell-darla-powell-interiors-18-months-after-opening Welcome to today's Where Are They Now show, where we will be re-interviewing Darla Powell, from Darla Powell Interiors in Southern Florida. Darla originally appeared in episode #203, where she shared a lot of information about how she got her business off the ground and right out of the gate within the first seven months. On today's show, you will learn about everything that Darla has managed to accomplish over the last year- and she will also be announcing something brand-new, which will be making its debut on the podcast today! Listen in to find out more. Darla has a fun, genuine and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work! In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects. Darla's career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother's antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla's refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing, so listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Darla talks about some of the things she's learned over the last year. The difference that the hiring of assistants has made to the growth of Darla's business. How Darla re-invented herself at the age of fifty. Why Darla has begun to delegate outside of her particular zone of genius. Why Darla's company has grown by leaps and bounds over the last year. Starting a business costs money, so you really need to have a plan. Some of the more challenging moments when Darla first started out as a designer. Darla's initial fears about raising her rates. The kind of clients that Darla attracted when she was charging lower rates. Finding your sweet spot in order to attract your ideal client. How Darla managed to attract the huge number of Instagram followers that she has! Keeping abreast with the latest Facebook algorithms. The importance of being authentic and engaging quality followers on social media. Using rich pins on Pinterest to drive traffic to your website. The awesome clients that Darla has attracted through social media. The benefits of sharing other people's work on social media. All about Darla's exciting, soon-to-be-launched new venture- Wingnutsocial.com. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Barbara Viteri (Designerlebrity) #155 Allison Fannin #223 Leslie Carothers #209 Summer Tannhauser #292  Resources mentioned on the show: Website: Darla Powell Interiors Website: Wingnut Social Instagram:  @darlapowellinteriors  Instagram:  @wingnutsocial Facebook: Darla Powell Interiors Twitter:  @wingnutsocial Book: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks Tue, 05 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's Where Are They Now show, where we will be re-interviewing Darla Powell, from Darla Powell Interiors in Southern Florida. Darla originally appeared in episode #203, where she shared a lot of information about how she got her business... Welcome to today's Where Are They Now show, where we will be re-interviewing Darla Powell, from Darla Powell Interiors in Southern Florida. Darla originally appeared in episode #203, where she shared a lot of information about how she got her business off the ground and right out of the gate within the first seven months. On today's show, you will learn about everything that Darla has managed to accomplish over the last year- and she will also be announcing something brand-new, which will be making its debut on the podcast today! Listen in to find out more. Darla has a fun, genuine and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work! In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects. Darla's career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother's antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla's refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing, so listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: Darla talks about some of the things she's learned over the last year. The difference that the hiring of assistants has made to the growth of Darla's business. How Darla re-invented herself at the age of fifty. Why Darla has begun to delegate outside of her particular zone of genius. Why Darla's company has grown by leaps and bounds over the last year. Starting a business costs money, so you really need to have a plan. Some of the more challenging moments when Darla first started out as a designer. Darla's initial fears about raising her rates. The kind of clients that Darla attracted when she was charging lower rates. Finding your sweet spot in order to attract your ideal client. How Darla managed to attract the huge number of Instagram followers that she has! Keeping abreast with the latest Facebook algorithms. The importance of being authentic and engaging quality followers on social media. Using rich pins on Pinterest to drive traffic to your website. The awesome clients that Darla has attracted through social media. The benefits of sharing other people's work on social media. All about Darla's exciting, soon-to-be-launched new venture- Wingnutsocial.com. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Barbara Viteri (Designerlebrity) #155 Allison Fannin #223 Leslie Carothers #209 Summer Tannhauser #292  Resources mentioned on the show: Website: Darla Powell Interiors Website: Wingnut Social Instagram:  @darlapowellinteriors  Instagram:  @wingnutsocial Facebook: Darla Powell Interiors Twitter:  @wingnutsocial Book: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks Welcome to today's Where Are They Now show, where we will be re-interviewing Darla Powell, from Darla Powell Interiors in Southern Florida. Darla originally appeared in episode #203, where she shared a lot of information about how she got her business off the ground and right out of the gate within the first seven months. On today's show, you will learn about everything that Darla has managed to accomplish over the last year- and she will also be announcing something brand-new, which will be making its debut on the podcast today! Listen in to find out more.

Darla has a fun, genuine and down-to-earth approach to the designing of beautiful spaces. Since she launched her career in 2016, she has grown her business almost exclusively by word-of-mouth and her clients have really fallen in love with her work!

In her past life, Darla spent almost twenty years as a Detective Sergeant in Miami Florida, so one might say that she is an expert on the importance of having complete tranquility at home after a stressful day at work! Also, her background has carried over many hidden perks- including a strong sense of integrity, accountability and a ready-for-anything-ness that is key for home renovation projects.

Darla's career transformation was fueled by her need to express her boundless creativity. She spent her childhood summers rummaging through her grandmother's antique store where she developed an extensive knowledge of antiques, collectibles and of pieces that look perfect together, so Darla's refined eye definitely sees those diamonds hiding in the rough! Above all, Darla really loves creating rooms that are gorgeous, elegant and soothing, so listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Darla talks about some of the things she's learned over the last year.
  • The difference that the hiring of assistants has made to the growth of Darla's business.
  • How Darla re-invented herself at the age of fifty.
  • Why Darla has begun to delegate outside of her particular zone of genius.
  • Why Darla's company has grown by leaps and bounds over the last year.
  • Starting a business costs money, so you really need to have a plan.
  • Some of the more challenging moments when Darla first started out as a designer.
  • Darla's initial fears about raising her rates.
  • The kind of clients that Darla attracted when she was charging lower rates.
  • Finding your sweet spot in order to attract your ideal client.
  • How Darla managed to attract the huge number of Instagram followers that she has!
  • Keeping abreast with the latest Facebook algorithms.
  • The importance of being authentic and engaging quality followers on social media.
  • Using rich pins on Pinterest to drive traffic to your website.
  • The awesome clients that Darla has attracted through social media.
  • The benefits of sharing other people's work on social media.
  • All about Darla's exciting, soon-to-be-launched new venture- Wingnutsocial.com.

Other episodes mentioned in this show:

Barbara Viteri (Designerlebrity) #155

Allison Fannin #223

Leslie Carothers #209

Summer Tannhauser #292 

Resources mentioned on the show:

Website: Darla Powell Interiors Website: Wingnut Social Instagram:  @darlapowellinteriors  Instagram:  @wingnutsocial Facebook: Darla Powell Interiors Twitter:  @wingnutsocial

Book: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

]]> 3807 no 329: Power Talk Friday: John Dupra - Revel Woods Launches New To The Trade Program http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/329-power-talk-friday-john-dupra-revel-woods-launches-new-to-the-trade-program Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have John Dupra of Revel Woods with us for an interview today and they are also the sponsor of today's show! Revel Woods' mission is to make the buying process of expert-curated, high-quality hardwood floors as easy as possible. Today, John explains the proprietary algorithm, and how it removes a large number of the technical barriers that one normally faces when sourcing a wooden floor. He also talks about the new website that they are launching, with a revamped pro-program, to help you, as designers, to make money on this sought-after, high-ticket item. Listen in today to find out about the really unique method that Revel Woods has developed specifically to enable interior designers to learn about and also to confidently specify hardwood floors on their projects. John's father, Craig, started out in the wood-flooring business, working as an installer and a re-finisher before John was even born. Craig did this work for twenty-four years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood-flooring distribution company in Rochester, New York. While John was growing up, he spent all his summer holidays helping his father in his business. He then took a job with Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company, where he traveled the country as a sales engineer, working with flooring contractors for a period of eight years, before deciding to return home to join the family business in wholesale distribution. When John returned to the business, he joined up with the operations manager and together they developed an idea to put the boutique flooring showroom experience online. Their inspiration came from high-end fashion sites, like Stitch Fix and Trunk Club, and this was how the idea for Revel Woods was born. John has been featured in a number of the publications in the industry, including being recognized in Hardwood Floor Magazine's first ever forty under forty. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: John talks about the supply chain in the industry. Where interior designers can go to see what the Revel Woods product looks like. (Revel Woods) How Revel Woods make their product equally and fairly available to everybody at the distribution level so that they are able to control the end-user experience from beginning to end. Why the Revel Woods brand is really a brand of curated expertise from top to bottom. The high level of care that's provided by Revel Woods. What happens when you complete the Revel Woods Selector and how it works. How flooring really forms the center of every design space from an aesthetic standpoint. How the Revel Woods product is designed to technically empower and also to provide a financial incentive for interior designers. What Revel Woods are doing with their brand-new website. How the new Revel Woods website solves pain-points for designers. The discount plus a rebate structure that Revel Woods has settled on for pro accounts, as an incentive for interior designers. How every aspect of the way that Revel Woods operates is very well thought out. How Revel Woods have closed the loop to help find qualified installers for solo or small business owners who want to source their product. Getting to really understand professional installers and the way that they think. The way that Revel Woods will really work well for less experienced designers. The incredible kind of support that Revel Woods gives designers. The awesome features to be found on the new Revel Woods website! Links: Website: Revel Woods Facebook: Revel Woods Instagram:  @revel_woods Twitter:  @RevelWoods Pinterest: Revel Woods Fri, 01 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have John Dupra of Revel Woods with us for an interview today and they are also the sponsor of today's show! Revel Woods' mission is to make the buying process of expert-curated, high-quality hardwood floors as easy as... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have John Dupra of Revel Woods with us for an interview today and they are also the sponsor of today's show! Revel Woods' mission is to make the buying process of expert-curated, high-quality hardwood floors as easy as possible. Today, John explains the proprietary algorithm, and how it removes a large number of the technical barriers that one normally faces when sourcing a wooden floor. He also talks about the new website that they are launching, with a revamped pro-program, to help you, as designers, to make money on this sought-after, high-ticket item. Listen in today to find out about the really unique method that Revel Woods has developed specifically to enable interior designers to learn about and also to confidently specify hardwood floors on their projects. John's father, Craig, started out in the wood-flooring business, working as an installer and a re-finisher before John was even born. Craig did this work for twenty-four years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood-flooring distribution company in Rochester, New York. While John was growing up, he spent all his summer holidays helping his father in his business. He then took a job with Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company, where he traveled the country as a sales engineer, working with flooring contractors for a period of eight years, before deciding to return home to join the family business in wholesale distribution. When John returned to the business, he joined up with the operations manager and together they developed an idea to put the boutique flooring showroom experience online. Their inspiration came from high-end fashion sites, like Stitch Fix and Trunk Club, and this was how the idea for Revel Woods was born. John has been featured in a number of the publications in the industry, including being recognized in Hardwood Floor Magazine's first ever forty under forty. Listen in to find out more! Show highlights: John talks about the supply chain in the industry. Where interior designers can go to see what the Revel Woods product looks like. (Revel Woods) How Revel Woods make their product equally and fairly available to everybody at the distribution level so that they are able to control the end-user experience from beginning to end. Why the Revel Woods brand is really a brand of curated expertise from top to bottom. The high level of care that's provided by Revel Woods. What happens when you complete the Revel Woods Selector and how it works. How flooring really forms the center of every design space from an aesthetic standpoint. How the Revel Woods product is designed to technically empower and also to provide a financial incentive for interior designers. What Revel Woods are doing with their brand-new website. How the new Revel Woods website solves pain-points for designers. The discount plus a rebate structure that Revel Woods has settled on for pro accounts, as an incentive for interior designers. How every aspect of the way that Revel Woods operates is very well thought out. How Revel Woods have closed the loop to help find qualified installers for solo or small business owners who want to source their product. Getting to really understand professional installers and the way that they think. The way that Revel Woods will really work well for less experienced designers. The incredible kind of support that Revel Woods gives designers. The awesome features to be found on the new Revel Woods website! Links: Website: Revel Woods Facebook: Revel Woods Instagram:  @revel_woods Twitter:  @RevelWoods Pinterest: Revel Woods Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have John Dupra of Revel Woods with us for an interview today and they are also the sponsor of today's show! Revel Woods' mission is to make the buying process of expert-curated, high-quality hardwood floors as easy as possible. Today, John explains the proprietary algorithm, and how it removes a large number of the technical barriers that one normally faces when sourcing a wooden floor. He also talks about the new website that they are launching, with a revamped pro-program, to help you, as designers, to make money on this sought-after, high-ticket item. Listen in today to find out about the really unique method that Revel Woods has developed specifically to enable interior designers to learn about and also to confidently specify hardwood floors on their projects.

John's father, Craig, started out in the wood-flooring business, working as an installer and a re-finisher before John was even born. Craig did this work for twenty-four years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood-flooring distribution company in Rochester, New York. While John was growing up, he spent all his summer holidays helping his father in his business. He then took a job with Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company, where he traveled the country as a sales engineer, working with flooring contractors for a period of eight years, before deciding to return home to join the family business in wholesale distribution. When John returned to the business, he joined up with the operations manager and together they developed an idea to put the boutique flooring showroom experience online. Their inspiration came from high-end fashion sites, like Stitch Fix and Trunk Club, and this was how the idea for Revel Woods was born. John has been featured in a number of the publications in the industry, including being recognized in Hardwood Floor Magazine's first ever forty under forty.

Listen in to find out more!

Show highlights:

  • John talks about the supply chain in the industry.
  • Where interior designers can go to see what the Revel Woods product looks like. (Revel Woods)
  • How Revel Woods make their product equally and fairly available to everybody at the distribution level so that they are able to control the end-user experience from beginning to end.
  • Why the Revel Woods brand is really a brand of curated expertise from top to bottom.
  • The high level of care that's provided by Revel Woods.
  • What happens when you complete the Revel Woods Selector and how it works.
  • How flooring really forms the center of every design space from an aesthetic standpoint.
  • How the Revel Woods product is designed to technically empower and also to provide a financial incentive for interior designers.
  • What Revel Woods are doing with their brand-new website.
  • How the new Revel Woods website solves pain-points for designers.
  • The discount plus a rebate structure that Revel Woods has settled on for pro accounts, as an incentive for interior designers.
  • How every aspect of the way that Revel Woods operates is very well thought out.
  • How Revel Woods have closed the loop to help find qualified installers for solo or small business owners who want to source their product.
  • Getting to really understand professional installers and the way that they think.
  • The way that Revel Woods will really work well for less experienced designers.
  • The incredible kind of support that Revel Woods gives designers.
  • The awesome features to be found on the new Revel Woods website!

Links:

Website: Revel Woods

Facebook: Revel Woods

Instagram:  @revel_woods

Twitter:  @RevelWoods

Pinterest: Revel Woods

]]> 4299 no 328: Catherine Hersacher: Going From a Big Interior Design Market to a Small Interior Design Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/328-catherine-hersacher-going-from-a-big-interior-design-market-to-a-small-interior-design-market Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Catherine Hersacher, the founder of Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken, South Carolina. On the show today Catherine talks to us about how she translates and brings her worldly exposure and background to the small-horse community of Aiken. Running an interior design firm in a small, tight-knit community has some very specific challenges, but there are pro's to it as well. On today's show, Catherine also talks a bit about her consultation process. She is able to achieve a design for any project that is cogent with her client's tastes and context. Listen in today to find out more about working as an interior designer in a smaller market.              Catherine, originally from Massachusetts, founded Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken South Carolina in 2012, with fourteen years of design experience behind her. She previously worked for some of the top firms in the country, in the high-end residential and ultra-exclusive hospitality sectors of the design industry. Catherine gained invaluable knowledge in the luxury residential design field while working in Palm Beach, Florida. Then, moving to the Northeast, Catherine joined an exclusive hospitality design firm as an interior designer and specifications manager. Many of the projects were five-star and boutique properties, including hotels, clubhouses, residential towers and conference centers. These projects were often located all around the globe. Catherine was part of the Asia team and was frequently sent to present and conduct site visits in China and Hong Kong. Listen in to find out what Catherine has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Catherine discusses her backward approach to her career. Catherine's return to school to get an undergraduate degree in architecture and a master's in product design. Giving in to her horse addiction and moving to Aiken South Carolina. The importance of setting your limits. How Catherine manages to find the right work-life balance. The type of design projects that Catherine works with, in Aiken. Saying 'yes' to repeat work. Catherine explains her superpower. What Catherine loves the most about the market that she works with. The awesome relationship that Catherine has with her current clients. Working with a mid-level market. All of Catherine's work comes from word-of-mouth and most of it comes from builders. Why Catherine does not specialize in any particular market. What Catherine finds the most challenging part of her work. About Catherine's relationships with her contractors. Why Catherine never thought that she would ever own her own business. The way that Catherine has grown since starting her own business. Catherine describes her initial consultation process. Having the budget conversation in the first fifteen minutes of the consultation. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Susan Yeley #208 Natalie Hurst #172 Blanche Garcia #282  Links: Website: Bespoke Instagram: Bespoke Fine Interiors  @bespokefineinteriors Facebook: Bespoke Fine Interiors Tue, 29 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Catherine Hersacher, the founder of Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken, South Carolina. On the show today Catherine talks to us about how she translates and brings her worldly exposure and... Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Catherine Hersacher, the founder of Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken, South Carolina. On the show today Catherine talks to us about how she translates and brings her worldly exposure and background to the small-horse community of Aiken. Running an interior design firm in a small, tight-knit community has some very specific challenges, but there are pro's to it as well. On today's show, Catherine also talks a bit about her consultation process. She is able to achieve a design for any project that is cogent with her client's tastes and context. Listen in today to find out more about working as an interior designer in a smaller market.              Catherine, originally from Massachusetts, founded Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken South Carolina in 2012, with fourteen years of design experience behind her. She previously worked for some of the top firms in the country, in the high-end residential and ultra-exclusive hospitality sectors of the design industry. Catherine gained invaluable knowledge in the luxury residential design field while working in Palm Beach, Florida. Then, moving to the Northeast, Catherine joined an exclusive hospitality design firm as an interior designer and specifications manager. Many of the projects were five-star and boutique properties, including hotels, clubhouses, residential towers and conference centers. These projects were often located all around the globe. Catherine was part of the Asia team and was frequently sent to present and conduct site visits in China and Hong Kong. Listen in to find out what Catherine has to share on the show today. Show highlights: Catherine discusses her backward approach to her career. Catherine's return to school to get an undergraduate degree in architecture and a master's in product design. Giving in to her horse addiction and moving to Aiken South Carolina. The importance of setting your limits. How Catherine manages to find the right work-life balance. The type of design projects that Catherine works with, in Aiken. Saying 'yes' to repeat work. Catherine explains her superpower. What Catherine loves the most about the market that she works with. The awesome relationship that Catherine has with her current clients. Working with a mid-level market. All of Catherine's work comes from word-of-mouth and most of it comes from builders. Why Catherine does not specialize in any particular market. What Catherine finds the most challenging part of her work. About Catherine's relationships with her contractors. Why Catherine never thought that she would ever own her own business. The way that Catherine has grown since starting her own business. Catherine describes her initial consultation process. Having the budget conversation in the first fifteen minutes of the consultation. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Susan Yeley #208 Natalie Hurst #172 Blanche Garcia #282  Links: Website: Bespoke Instagram: Bespoke Fine Interiors  @bespokefineinteriors Facebook: Bespoke Fine Interiors Welcome to today's show! We are very happy to introduce you to Catherine Hersacher, the founder of Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken, South Carolina. On the show today Catherine talks to us about how she translates and brings her worldly exposure and background to the small-horse community of Aiken. Running an interior design firm in a small, tight-knit community has some very specific challenges, but there are pro's to it as well. On today's show, Catherine also talks a bit about her consultation process. She is able to achieve a design for any project that is cogent with her client's tastes and context. Listen in today to find out more about working as an interior designer in a smaller market.             

Catherine, originally from Massachusetts, founded Bespoke Fine Interiors in Aiken South Carolina in 2012, with fourteen years of design experience behind her. She previously worked for some of the top firms in the country, in the high-end residential and ultra-exclusive hospitality sectors of the design industry. Catherine gained invaluable knowledge in the luxury residential design field while working in Palm Beach, Florida. Then, moving to the Northeast, Catherine joined an exclusive hospitality design firm as an interior designer and specifications manager. Many of the projects were five-star and boutique properties, including hotels, clubhouses, residential towers and conference centers. These projects were often located all around the globe. Catherine was part of the Asia team and was frequently sent to present and conduct site visits in China and Hong Kong. Listen in to find out what Catherine has to share on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Catherine discusses her backward approach to her career.
  • Catherine's return to school to get an undergraduate degree in architecture and a master's in product design.
  • Giving in to her horse addiction and moving to Aiken South Carolina.
  • The importance of setting your limits.
  • How Catherine manages to find the right work-life balance.
  • The type of design projects that Catherine works with, in Aiken.
  • Saying 'yes' to repeat work.
  • Catherine explains her superpower.
  • What Catherine loves the most about the market that she works with.
  • The awesome relationship that Catherine has with her current clients.
  • Working with a mid-level market.
  • All of Catherine's work comes from word-of-mouth and most of it comes from builders.
  • Why Catherine does not specialize in any particular market.
  • What Catherine finds the most challenging part of her work.
  • About Catherine's relationships with her contractors.
  • Why Catherine never thought that she would ever own her own business.
  • The way that Catherine has grown since starting her own business.
  • Catherine describes her initial consultation process.
  • Having the budget conversation in the first fifteen minutes of the consultation.

Other episodes mentioned in this show:

Susan Yeley #208

Natalie Hurst #172

Blanche Garcia #282

 Links:

Website: Bespoke Instagram: Bespoke Fine Interiors  @bespokefineinteriors Facebook: Bespoke Fine Interiors]]> 5052 no 327 : Chaney Widmer: How to Launch An E-Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/ep-327-chaney-widmer-how-to-launch-an-e-design-business Welcome! Today we're really excited to have Chaney Widmer, the founder of Mix and Match Design Company, back with us- and she is also the sponsor of today's show!  (She was previously in episode #260.)  We were really impressed when we first met Chaney because she was so well-spoken, so poised, and so directed and focused about her business. We were also really impressed with the way that Chaney's whole business is completely E-design and that she doesn't do any client-facing in-the-house work at all. Listen in today to find out more about Chaney's niche. Mix & Match Design Company was founded by Chaney Widmer in 2015 with the goal of making interior design services accessible and affordable for everyone. By harnessing the power of technology and using innovative online tools, Mix & Match has been able to help folks create homes that they love in a fun and efficient way - all online through "e-design" -while maintaining a personal touch. She wants to take the intimidation out of interior design - whether you are starting from scratch on a brand new home or redesigning a room that's ready for an update, she's ready to help! Over the past several years, Mix & Match has grown into a multi-faceted business that serves not only clients but other interior design businesses as well. On the client side, Chaney offers one-on-one e-design packages, and also shares inspiring and educational design content to a broad audience through twice-weekly blog posts and on social media. In February 2018, she expanded into the "B-to-B" world and released an online course for designers (or aspiring ones!) who want to launch their own online interior design businesses. This self-paced course is released a few times a year and provides a "quick start" guide to getting an e-design business up and running. Enabling others to pursue their goal of starting a design business is a passion of Chaney's, and she's very excited to help them succeed! Mix & Match Design Company is based in the great city of Philadelphia and serves clients locally and nationally. At the end of the last show with Chaney, we mentioned that she was in the process of coming up with a course for her interior design colleagues who are interested in learning about how to run a profitable and effective E-design business. She has subsequently come up with that course. It's called How To Launch An E-design Business, and it will launch on the 4th of June 2018. Today we will be talking to Chaney about exactly what is in her course and she will also explain how it works. Listen in to find out what Chaney has to share with you today. Show highlights: E-design is really flexible- it can either be your entire business or used as a side-hustle. The in-depth nature of Chaney's course. The way that Chaney has taken this aspect of design and systemized it. How Chaney's course will really save you time. How the principals in the course will be a good foundation for your design business. Chaney's course is recorded, so you can do it in your own time and at your own pace. The course can also be used to get the junior designers or design assistants who work for you up to speed. The major topics that are in the four videos in the course. Chaney really has her marketing well locked down! Chaney's belief is that designers should be providing everything that their clients need. Finding the right process for your clients. Most people accept that Chaney is an E-designer and so she won't go and do in-person consultations. The feedback that Chaney has had from designers who have purchased her course. Chaney's goals for the course that she created. Chaney is offering a free download from the course. What you will learn from the workbook of the course. Who the course is tailored for.  Links: To get your free download of The start-up checklist for an E-design business go to E Design Biz Checklist You can find Chaney's course How To Launch An E-design Business at: E Design Course To get onto Chaney's email list go to the course landing-page at E Design Course. How To Launch An E-Design Business course:   Mix & Match Design Company website: Mix And Match Design Instagram: @mixandmatchdesigncompany Facebook: Mix & Match Design Company Fri, 25 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today we're really excited to have Chaney Widmer, the founder of Mix and Match Design Company, back with us- and she is also the sponsor of today's show!  (She was previously in episode #260.)  We were really impressed when we first... Welcome! Today we're really excited to have Chaney Widmer, the founder of Mix and Match Design Company, back with us- and she is also the sponsor of today's show!  (She was previously in episode #260.)  We were really impressed when we first met Chaney because she was so well-spoken, so poised, and so directed and focused about her business. We were also really impressed with the way that Chaney's whole business is completely E-design and that she doesn't do any client-facing in-the-house work at all. Listen in today to find out more about Chaney's niche. Mix & Match Design Company was founded by Chaney Widmer in 2015 with the goal of making interior design services accessible and affordable for everyone. By harnessing the power of technology and using innovative online tools, Mix & Match has been able to help folks create homes that they love in a fun and efficient way - all online through "e-design" -while maintaining a personal touch. She wants to take the intimidation out of interior design - whether you are starting from scratch on a brand new home or redesigning a room that's ready for an update, she's ready to help! Over the past several years, Mix & Match has grown into a multi-faceted business that serves not only clients but other interior design businesses as well. On the client side, Chaney offers one-on-one e-design packages, and also shares inspiring and educational design content to a broad audience through twice-weekly blog posts and on social media. In February 2018, she expanded into the "B-to-B" world and released an online course for designers (or aspiring ones!) who want to launch their own online interior design businesses. This self-paced course is released a few times a year and provides a "quick start" guide to getting an e-design business up and running. Enabling others to pursue their goal of starting a design business is a passion of Chaney's, and she's very excited to help them succeed! Mix & Match Design Company is based in the great city of Philadelphia and serves clients locally and nationally. At the end of the last show with Chaney, we mentioned that she was in the process of coming up with a course for her interior design colleagues who are interested in learning about how to run a profitable and effective E-design business. She has subsequently come up with that course. It's called How To Launch An E-design Business, and it will launch on the 4th of June 2018. Today we will be talking to Chaney about exactly what is in her course and she will also explain how it works. Listen in to find out what Chaney has to share with you today. Show highlights: E-design is really flexible- it can either be your entire business or used as a side-hustle. The in-depth nature of Chaney's course. The way that Chaney has taken this aspect of design and systemized it. How Chaney's course will really save you time. How the principals in the course will be a good foundation for your design business. Chaney's course is recorded, so you can do it in your own time and at your own pace. The course can also be used to get the junior designers or design assistants who work for you up to speed. The major topics that are in the four videos in the course. Chaney really has her marketing well locked down! Chaney's belief is that designers should be providing everything that their clients need. Finding the right process for your clients. Most people accept that Chaney is an E-designer and so she won't go and do in-person consultations. The feedback that Chaney has had from designers who have purchased her course. Chaney's goals for the course that she created. Chaney is offering a free download from the course. What you will learn from the workbook of the course. Who the course is tailored for.  Links: To get your free download of The start-up checklist for an E-design business go to E Design Biz Checklist You can find Chaney's course How To Launch An E-design Business at: E Design Course To get onto Chaney's email list go to the course landing-page at E Design Course. How To Launch An E-Design Business course:   Mix & Match Design Company website: Mix And Match Design Instagram: @mixandmatchdesigncompany Facebook: Mix & Match Design Company Welcome! Today we're really excited to have Chaney Widmer, the founder of Mix and Match Design Company, back with us- and she is also the sponsor of today's show!  (She was previously in episode #260.)  We were really impressed when we first met Chaney because she was so well-spoken, so poised, and so directed and focused about her business. We were also really impressed with the way that Chaney's whole business is completely E-design and that she doesn't do any client-facing in-the-house work at all. Listen in today to find out more about Chaney's niche.

Mix & Match Design Company was founded by Chaney Widmer in 2015 with the goal of making interior design services accessible and affordable for everyone. By harnessing the power of technology and using innovative online tools, Mix & Match has been able to help folks create homes that they love in a fun and efficient way - all online through "e-design" -while maintaining a personal touch. She wants to take the intimidation out of interior design - whether you are starting from scratch on a brand new home or redesigning a room that's ready for an update, she's ready to help!

Over the past several years, Mix & Match has grown into a multi-faceted business that serves not only clients but other interior design businesses as well. On the client side, Chaney offers one-on-one e-design packages, and also shares inspiring and educational design content to a broad audience through twice-weekly blog posts and on social media. In February 2018, she expanded into the "B-to-B" world and released an online course for designers (or aspiring ones!) who want to launch their own online interior design businesses. This self-paced course is released a few times a year and provides a "quick start" guide to getting an e-design business up and running. Enabling others to pursue their goal of starting a design business is a passion of Chaney's, and she's very excited to help them succeed! Mix & Match Design Company is based in the great city of Philadelphia and serves clients locally and nationally.

At the end of the last show with Chaney, we mentioned that she was in the process of coming up with a course for her interior design colleagues who are interested in learning about how to run a profitable and effective E-design business. She has subsequently come up with that course. It's called How To Launch An E-design Business, and it will launch on the 4th of June 2018. Today we will be talking to Chaney about exactly what is in her course and she will also explain how it works. Listen in to find out what Chaney has to share with you today.

Show highlights:

  • E-design is really flexible- it can either be your entire business or used as a side-hustle.
  • The in-depth nature of Chaney's course.
  • The way that Chaney has taken this aspect of design and systemized it.
  • How Chaney's course will really save you time.
  • How the principals in the course will be a good foundation for your design business.
  • Chaney's course is recorded, so you can do it in your own time and at your own pace.
  • The course can also be used to get the junior designers or design assistants who work for you up to speed.
  • The major topics that are in the four videos in the course.
  • Chaney really has her marketing well locked down!
  • Chaney's belief is that designers should be providing everything that their clients need.
  • Finding the right process for your clients.
  • Most people accept that Chaney is an E-designer and so she won't go and do in-person consultations.
  • The feedback that Chaney has had from designers who have purchased her course.
  • Chaney's goals for the course that she created.
  • Chaney is offering a free download from the course.
  • What you will learn from the workbook of the course.
  • Who the course is tailored for.

 Links:

To get your free download of The start-up checklist for an E-design business go to E Design Biz Checklist

You can find Chaney's course How To Launch An E-design Business at: E Design Course

To get onto Chaney's email list go to the course landing-page at E Design Course.

How To Launch An E-Design Business course:   Mix & Match Design Company website: Mix And Match Design Instagram: @mixandmatchdesigncompany Facebook: Mix & Match Design Company]]> 3556 no 326: Design Biz Live: Personality Traits, Pre-Consult Questionnaire, Contract Addendum http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/326-design-biz-live-personality-traits-pre-consult-questionnaire-contract-addendum Download The Skills Assessment! Welcome to today's episode of Design Biz Live! As many of you know, this means that I have Judith Neary and Corey Klassen with me and that we're going to have an in-depth discussion about the intricacies of running your interior design business. Listen in to find out more! On the show today we are going to be talking about the important personality traits that you need to master in order to be really successful as an interior designer. Judith gives a fabulous description of what is and what isn't a successful interior designer and Corey discusses the specific questionnaire that he sends out to his clients before their first consultation, along with his specific eleven step 'What I will do and what I won't do' document that he attaches and goes over with them when they sign the contract. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create a smooth and easy process for your clients. Show Highlights:   Some of the overarching traits that are really important for interior designers to have- or to develop.  What adaptability means to Judith. Corey's take on adaptability. Why it's not okay to adapt your particular zone of genius to please a client. About Corey's detailed Self Assessment Check List of Skills. Working within your particular zone of genius. Learning how to manage both conflict and resolution. Corey's way of dealing with things that bother him. Becoming willing to do the hard thing- so that everything else can fall into place. Corey discusses his initial process with new clients. Corey's process of knowing what he will and won't do. The three things that Judith will not do. How Corey works out what he will charge for each project. Why Corey always presents his proposals to his clients in person. Why Corey does not take any digital communication from his clients outside of their project in the MyDoma Studio platform.   What Corey charges to cover his initial consultation and operation costs. Being really clear with your clients about what you will and won't do.    Other episodes mentioned in this show: Lee Cockerel #222 This show is also a video on our YouTube channel               Tue, 22 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Design Biz Live! As many of you know, this means that I have Judith Neary and Corey Klassen with me and that we're going to have an in-depth discussion about the intricacies of running your interior design business.... Download The Skills Assessment! Welcome to today's episode of Design Biz Live! As many of you know, this means that I have Judith Neary and Corey Klassen with me and that we're going to have an in-depth discussion about the intricacies of running your interior design business. Listen in to find out more! On the show today we are going to be talking about the important personality traits that you need to master in order to be really successful as an interior designer. Judith gives a fabulous description of what is and what isn't a successful interior designer and Corey discusses the specific questionnaire that he sends out to his clients before their first consultation, along with his specific eleven step 'What I will do and what I won't do' document that he attaches and goes over with them when they sign the contract. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create a smooth and easy process for your clients. Show Highlights:   Some of the overarching traits that are really important for interior designers to have- or to develop.  What adaptability means to Judith. Corey's take on adaptability. Why it's not okay to adapt your particular zone of genius to please a client. About Corey's detailed Self Assessment Check List of Skills. Working within your particular zone of genius. Learning how to manage both conflict and resolution. Corey's way of dealing with things that bother him. Becoming willing to do the hard thing- so that everything else can fall into place. Corey discusses his initial process with new clients. Corey's process of knowing what he will and won't do. The three things that Judith will not do. How Corey works out what he will charge for each project. Why Corey always presents his proposals to his clients in person. Why Corey does not take any digital communication from his clients outside of their project in the MyDoma Studio platform.   What Corey charges to cover his initial consultation and operation costs. Being really clear with your clients about what you will and won't do.    Other episodes mentioned in this show: Lee Cockerel #222 This show is also a video on our YouTube channel               Download The Skills Assessment!

Welcome to today's episode of Design Biz Live! As many of you know, this means that I have Judith Neary and Corey Klassen with me and that we're going to have an in-depth discussion about the intricacies of running your interior design business. Listen in to find out more!

On the show today we are going to be talking about the important personality traits that you need to master in order to be really successful as an interior designer. Judith gives a fabulous description of what is and what isn't a successful interior designer and Corey discusses the specific questionnaire that he sends out to his clients before their first consultation, along with his specific eleven step 'What I will do and what I won't do' document that he attaches and goes over with them when they sign the contract. Listen in today to find out what it takes to create a smooth and easy process for your clients.


Show Highlights:

 

  • Some of the overarching traits that are really important for interior designers to have- or to develop. 
  • What adaptability means to Judith.
  • Corey's take on adaptability.
  • Why it's not okay to adapt your particular zone of genius to please a client.
  • About Corey's detailed Self Assessment Check List of Skills.
  • Working within your particular zone of genius.
  • Learning how to manage both conflict and resolution.
  • Corey's way of dealing with things that bother him.
  • Becoming willing to do the hard thing- so that everything else can fall into place.
  • Corey discusses his initial process with new clients.
  • Corey's process of knowing what he will and won't do.
  • The three things that Judith will not do.
  • How Corey works out what he will charge for each project.
  • Why Corey always presents his proposals to his clients in person.
  • Why Corey does not take any digital communication from his clients outside of their project in the MyDoma Studio platform.  
  • What Corey charges to cover his initial consultation and operation costs.
  • Being really clear with your clients about what you will and won't do. 

 

Other episodes mentioned in this show:

Lee Cockerel #222

This show is also a video on our YouTube channel  

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> 5096 no 325: Claire Jefford: Create Valuable Content to Sell Through Your Website http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/325-claire-jefford-create-valuable-content-to-sell-through-your-website Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Claire Jefford back on the show with us today (she was previously on #237) and we will be talking to her about how to create products, courses, and the kinds of things that designers can sell to consumers on their websites. She will explain what this looks like, how to do it, why you should be doing it, and also, some steps that you can follow in the process. LuAnn really enjoys talking to Claire and she loves having her on the show because it means that it's going to be a seriously good one, so listen in today to find out what Claire has to share with you. Claire started her interior decorating business in 2011 and her firm specializes in 3D design as well as custom residential projects. Claire has a very keen eye for detail and she particularly loves to mix patterns and fabrics. Her company was named one of the top thirty interior design firms in Ontario in 2017 and she is very proud to be the highest reviewed design professional in the greater Toronto area on Howzz, with more than ninety reviews! Claire, not one to shy away from social media, has been creating videos on Facebook since 2013 and she started her own Youtube channel in January 2016. She also has a second business, where she coaches and helps other designers to run their interior design businesses. With her no-nonsense approach, she shares marketing ideas, proven processes and social media strategies, to help others in the field to build confidence in the way that they work. Claire also runs a free Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, which is an amazing community focusing on the business of design. Listen in now to find out more.  Show highlights: Claire explains the difference between a product that you create and an affiliate link. The right time to do affiliate links on your website. Getting to know your audience. Some steps to creating the kind of product that consumers can buy from your website. Finding and recognizing opportunities to create your products. Looking at your customers' pain points in order to create a valuable product. Layering some affiliate links into your website. The importance of building trust with your audience through your website. Saving both time and money are always really important. The benefits of having a Facebook group. How to do a really effective pre-sale for your product. The walk-through video that Claire created. Being really clear about what you're offering on your website. Knowing when you should throw in the towel. Sometimes you're going to need to invest in what you're creating. The time and effort that it took for Claire to create her 'Rock The Consult' course. Categorising your blog posts. The beauty of creating products that will retain their relevance over time. Why you really need to charge for all the time you're using. Remember to get testimonials from your customers! Claire was also in episode #237: Claire Jefford - How to Get More Clients with Video Content Other episodes mentioned on this show: Kae Whitaker #274 Carla Aston #242  Links: Claire on Instagram: @ClaireJeffordDesigns Claire's website: Claire Jefford Claire on Facebook Claire on Youtube Fri, 18 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Claire Jefford back on the show with us today (she was previously on #237) and we will be talking to her about how to create products, courses, and the kinds of things that designers can sell to consumers... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Claire Jefford back on the show with us today (she was previously on #237) and we will be talking to her about how to create products, courses, and the kinds of things that designers can sell to consumers on their websites. She will explain what this looks like, how to do it, why you should be doing it, and also, some steps that you can follow in the process. LuAnn really enjoys talking to Claire and she loves having her on the show because it means that it's going to be a seriously good one, so listen in today to find out what Claire has to share with you. Claire started her interior decorating business in 2011 and her firm specializes in 3D design as well as custom residential projects. Claire has a very keen eye for detail and she particularly loves to mix patterns and fabrics. Her company was named one of the top thirty interior design firms in Ontario in 2017 and she is very proud to be the highest reviewed design professional in the greater Toronto area on Howzz, with more than ninety reviews! Claire, not one to shy away from social media, has been creating videos on Facebook since 2013 and she started her own Youtube channel in January 2016. She also has a second business, where she coaches and helps other designers to run their interior design businesses. With her no-nonsense approach, she shares marketing ideas, proven processes and social media strategies, to help others in the field to build confidence in the way that they work. Claire also runs a free Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, which is an amazing community focusing on the business of design. Listen in now to find out more.  Show highlights: Claire explains the difference between a product that you create and an affiliate link. The right time to do affiliate links on your website. Getting to know your audience. Some steps to creating the kind of product that consumers can buy from your website. Finding and recognizing opportunities to create your products. Looking at your customers' pain points in order to create a valuable product. Layering some affiliate links into your website. The importance of building trust with your audience through your website. Saving both time and money are always really important. The benefits of having a Facebook group. How to do a really effective pre-sale for your product. The walk-through video that Claire created. Being really clear about what you're offering on your website. Knowing when you should throw in the towel. Sometimes you're going to need to invest in what you're creating. The time and effort that it took for Claire to create her 'Rock The Consult' course. Categorising your blog posts. The beauty of creating products that will retain their relevance over time. Why you really need to charge for all the time you're using. Remember to get testimonials from your customers! Claire was also in episode #237: Claire Jefford - How to Get More Clients with Video Content Other episodes mentioned on this show: Kae Whitaker #274 Carla Aston #242  Links: Claire on Instagram: @ClaireJeffordDesigns Claire's website: Claire Jefford Claire on Facebook Claire on Youtube Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! We have Claire Jefford back on the show with us today (she was previously on #237) and we will be talking to her about how to create products, courses, and the kinds of things that designers can sell to consumers on their websites. She will explain what this looks like, how to do it, why you should be doing it, and also, some steps that you can follow in the process. LuAnn really enjoys talking to Claire and she loves having her on the show because it means that it's going to be a seriously good one, so listen in today to find out what Claire has to share with you.

Claire started her interior decorating business in 2011 and her firm specializes in 3D design as well as custom residential projects. Claire has a very keen eye for detail and she particularly loves to mix patterns and fabrics. Her company was named one of the top thirty interior design firms in Ontario in 2017 and she is very proud to be the highest reviewed design professional in the greater Toronto area on Howzz, with more than ninety reviews! Claire, not one to shy away from social media, has been creating videos on Facebook since 2013 and she started her own Youtube channel in January 2016. She also has a second business, where she coaches and helps other designers to run their interior design businesses. With her no-nonsense approach, she shares marketing ideas, proven processes and social media strategies, to help others in the field to build confidence in the way that they work. Claire also runs a free Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, which is an amazing community focusing on the business of design. Listen in now to find out more. 

Show highlights:

  • Claire explains the difference between a product that you create and an affiliate link.
  • The right time to do affiliate links on your website.
  • Getting to know your audience.
  • Some steps to creating the kind of product that consumers can buy from your website.
  • Finding and recognizing opportunities to create your products.
  • Looking at your customers' pain points in order to create a valuable product.
  • Layering some affiliate links into your website.
  • The importance of building trust with your audience through your website.
  • Saving both time and money are always really important.
  • The benefits of having a Facebook group.
  • How to do a really effective pre-sale for your product.
  • The walk-through video that Claire created.
  • Being really clear about what you're offering on your website.
  • Knowing when you should throw in the towel.
  • Sometimes you're going to need to invest in what you're creating.
  • The time and effort that it took for Claire to create her 'Rock The Consult' course.
  • Categorising your blog posts.
  • The beauty of creating products that will retain their relevance over time.
  • Why you really need to charge for all the time you're using.
  • Remember to get testimonials from your customers!

Claire was also in episode #237: Claire Jefford - How to Get More Clients with Video Content

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Kae Whitaker #274

Carla Aston #242 

Links:

Claire on Instagram: @ClaireJeffordDesigns

Claire's website: Claire Jefford

Claire on Facebook

Claire on Youtube

]]> 3451 no 324: Steven G: Attract the Luxury Client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/324-steven-g-attract-the-luxury-client Welcome to today's episode! I have Steven G, of Interiors By Steven G, with me today and we will be talking about how and why Steven G came to the decision to leave the first interior design firm that he partnered with and how he launched his own company, based on the lessons (or the negatives, as he calls them) that he learned there. He will also discuss how he established his company and reputation with the luxury property developers in the South Florida region. Today's show is a fantastic example of gambling on yourself and of calculating the risk vs your return on investment, so please listen in carefully to what Steven has to share with you today. Interiors By Steven G is one of South Florida's most outstanding interior design firms. Steven leads a team of more than eighty professionals, which include licensed interior designers who are fluent in seven languages, interior design renderers, a full Autocad department, design assistants, an in-house marketing and PR department, as well as a full warehouse team with their own fleet of trucks. Their locations include a one-hundred-thousand square foot corporate office and showroom and the NOW by Steven G Showroom. These are both located in Broward County. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: How Steven intentionally, and also organically built his collaborations with the luxury property developers in South Florida. Why Steven has focused his career and business on the luxury condominium market. How Steven used to reach his buyers through his sales center. How Steven works between seventy and eighty hours every week to remain out-of-the-box as a designer. How Steven's business first began to blossom, and how he found his niche. The importance of being structured in the way you do your business. How Steven has never forgotten where he came from- or to say 'thank you'. Steven's humble approach to his business. How Steven got his foot in the door with the luxury property developers, early on in his business. How Steven assesses the potential return on his investments. Reaping the benefits of long-term design investments. How Steven realized that the first firm that he partnered with was going to crash and burn. The way that Steven built his company on 'the negatives'. Steven is always reachable- this really works for him! How working hard can allow you to eventually land in a really beautiful place! The importance of creating your own destiny. Steven is a wealth of knowledge- and he is willing to share it with you, designers! Why you always need to think ahead of the game. Please take the time to go to Steven's website interiorsbysteveng.com The work is really unbelievable! Resources: Interiors By Steven G Steven on social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Tue, 15 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! I have Steven G, of Interiors By Steven G, with me today and we will be talking about how and why Steven G came to the decision to leave the first interior design firm that he partnered with and how he launched his own... Welcome to today's episode! I have Steven G, of Interiors By Steven G, with me today and we will be talking about how and why Steven G came to the decision to leave the first interior design firm that he partnered with and how he launched his own company, based on the lessons (or the negatives, as he calls them) that he learned there. He will also discuss how he established his company and reputation with the luxury property developers in the South Florida region. Today's show is a fantastic example of gambling on yourself and of calculating the risk vs your return on investment, so please listen in carefully to what Steven has to share with you today. Interiors By Steven G is one of South Florida's most outstanding interior design firms. Steven leads a team of more than eighty professionals, which include licensed interior designers who are fluent in seven languages, interior design renderers, a full Autocad department, design assistants, an in-house marketing and PR department, as well as a full warehouse team with their own fleet of trucks. Their locations include a one-hundred-thousand square foot corporate office and showroom and the NOW by Steven G Showroom. These are both located in Broward County. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: How Steven intentionally, and also organically built his collaborations with the luxury property developers in South Florida. Why Steven has focused his career and business on the luxury condominium market. How Steven used to reach his buyers through his sales center. How Steven works between seventy and eighty hours every week to remain out-of-the-box as a designer. How Steven's business first began to blossom, and how he found his niche. The importance of being structured in the way you do your business. How Steven has never forgotten where he came from- or to say 'thank you'. Steven's humble approach to his business. How Steven got his foot in the door with the luxury property developers, early on in his business. How Steven assesses the potential return on his investments. Reaping the benefits of long-term design investments. How Steven realized that the first firm that he partnered with was going to crash and burn. The way that Steven built his company on 'the negatives'. Steven is always reachable- this really works for him! How working hard can allow you to eventually land in a really beautiful place! The importance of creating your own destiny. Steven is a wealth of knowledge- and he is willing to share it with you, designers! Why you always need to think ahead of the game. Please take the time to go to Steven's website interiorsbysteveng.com The work is really unbelievable! Resources: Interiors By Steven G Steven on social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Welcome to today's episode! I have Steven G, of Interiors By Steven G, with me today and we will be talking about how and why Steven G came to the decision to leave the first interior design firm that he partnered with and how he launched his own company, based on the lessons (or the negatives, as he calls them) that he learned there. He will also discuss how he established his company and reputation with the luxury property developers in the South Florida region. Today's show is a fantastic example of gambling on yourself and of calculating the risk vs your return on investment, so please listen in carefully to what Steven has to share with you today.

Interiors By Steven G is one of South Florida's most outstanding interior design firms. Steven leads a team of more than eighty professionals, which include licensed interior designers who are fluent in seven languages, interior design renderers, a full Autocad department, design assistants, an in-house marketing and PR department, as well as a full warehouse team with their own fleet of trucks. Their locations include a one-hundred-thousand square foot corporate office and showroom and the NOW by Steven G Showroom. These are both located in Broward County. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • How Steven intentionally, and also organically built his collaborations with the luxury property developers in South Florida.
  • Why Steven has focused his career and business on the luxury condominium market.
  • How Steven used to reach his buyers through his sales center.
  • How Steven works between seventy and eighty hours every week to remain out-of-the-box as a designer.
  • How Steven's business first began to blossom, and how he found his niche.
  • The importance of being structured in the way you do your business.
  • How Steven has never forgotten where he came from- or to say 'thank you'.
  • Steven's humble approach to his business.
  • How Steven got his foot in the door with the luxury property developers, early on in his business.
  • How Steven assesses the potential return on his investments.
  • Reaping the benefits of long-term design investments.
  • How Steven realized that the first firm that he partnered with was going to crash and burn.
  • The way that Steven built his company on 'the negatives'.
  • Steven is always reachable- this really works for him!
  • How working hard can allow you to eventually land in a really beautiful place!
  • The importance of creating your own destiny.
  • Steven is a wealth of knowledge- and he is willing to share it with you, designers!
  • Why you always need to think ahead of the game.
  • Please take the time to go to Steven's website interiorsbysteveng.com The work is really unbelievable!

Resources:

Interiors By Steven G

Steven on social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin]]> 2744 no 323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/323-amy-flurry-how-to-pitch-press-and-build-relationships Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Last Friday we started a great conversation with Ashley Hotham-Cox, the editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor in Charlotte, about how to pitch yourself and how to get press. Today we are really happy to continue the conversation with Amy Flurry. Amy has appeared once before on the show, on episode #108 and she's really a smart lady, so if you haven't met her yet, you are really in for a treat! Listen in now to find out more! Amy has two decades of editorial experience, conceiving ideas for stories, producing shoots, and writing copy for magazines and online publications. These include Country Living, In Style, Refinery 29, Conde Nast Traveller, Better Homes and Gardens, and Lucky Magazine. Amy authored Recipe For Press- Pitch Your Story and Create A Buzz, (which we spoke about in episode #108) after being inspired by her career in publishing. She has now written her second book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition. This book is filled to the brim with tools for interior designers, architects, landscape planners, and product designers who need to take advantage of any new media opportunities which are available. Amy applies her collective expertise- from trend direction to product and brand development, working with companies to expand their marketing strategies and to connect businesses to the interior design trade. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: The really great advice that Amy gave to LuAnn when they first met. About Amy's fabulous new book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition. The overarching points that Amy wanted to get across in her new book. Why designers need to create a strategy for getting press. The shift that Amy has seen lately, in the design industry. The new opportunities that are available now, for designers to get their names out there. Why you need to have a really good pitch. How to create a killer pitch. Why you really need to know what you want to get from the press. Remember that all publications need content! The amount of work that you're going to be in for when you engage with a publicist. Why it makes more sense to pitch for publications in your neighborhood. Press is not about ego- it's actually about business! Working your way up- starting with your local press and local market. About Amy's layering strategy. The way that Amy creates events that are really worthwhile for everyone in the room. Why retailers really want you, as interior designers, in their showrooms. The importance of sharing- and recycling images. Celebrating the things that set you apart from other designers. Some of the fabulous resources that are available on Amy's website- Recipe For Press. About Amy's incredible company- Paper-Cut-Project. You can see it on Instagram.  Links: Other episodes mentioned on this show: Laura Thurman #272 Claire Staszak #166 Lynn K Leonidas #179 And Amy Flurry appeared before on episode #108   To order your copy of Amy's book go to Recipe For Press. Go to Luann Nigara, to the 'live events' tab, to find the RSVP link for the opening night, at Lefroy Brooks, of the ICFF at the AND Building on 22nd May. The first 25 people will receive a free book from LuAnn! To figure out all the things that you can do with MyDoma Studio go to My Doma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list text the word designbiz to 444 999, or go to her website www.luannnigara.com and go to the events page. Fri, 11 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Last Friday we started a great conversation with Ashley Hotham-Cox, the editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor in Charlotte, about how to pitch yourself and how to get press. Today we are really happy to continue the... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Last Friday we started a great conversation with Ashley Hotham-Cox, the editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor in Charlotte, about how to pitch yourself and how to get press. Today we are really happy to continue the conversation with Amy Flurry. Amy has appeared once before on the show, on episode #108 and she's really a smart lady, so if you haven't met her yet, you are really in for a treat! Listen in now to find out more! Amy has two decades of editorial experience, conceiving ideas for stories, producing shoots, and writing copy for magazines and online publications. These include Country Living, In Style, Refinery 29, Conde Nast Traveller, Better Homes and Gardens, and Lucky Magazine. Amy authored Recipe For Press- Pitch Your Story and Create A Buzz, (which we spoke about in episode #108) after being inspired by her career in publishing. She has now written her second book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition. This book is filled to the brim with tools for interior designers, architects, landscape planners, and product designers who need to take advantage of any new media opportunities which are available. Amy applies her collective expertise- from trend direction to product and brand development, working with companies to expand their marketing strategies and to connect businesses to the interior design trade. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: The really great advice that Amy gave to LuAnn when they first met. About Amy's fabulous new book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition. The overarching points that Amy wanted to get across in her new book. Why designers need to create a strategy for getting press. The shift that Amy has seen lately, in the design industry. The new opportunities that are available now, for designers to get their names out there. Why you need to have a really good pitch. How to create a killer pitch. Why you really need to know what you want to get from the press. Remember that all publications need content! The amount of work that you're going to be in for when you engage with a publicist. Why it makes more sense to pitch for publications in your neighborhood. Press is not about ego- it's actually about business! Working your way up- starting with your local press and local market. About Amy's layering strategy. The way that Amy creates events that are really worthwhile for everyone in the room. Why retailers really want you, as interior designers, in their showrooms. The importance of sharing- and recycling images. Celebrating the things that set you apart from other designers. Some of the fabulous resources that are available on Amy's website- Recipe For Press. About Amy's incredible company- Paper-Cut-Project. You can see it on Instagram.  Links: Other episodes mentioned on this show: Laura Thurman #272 Claire Staszak #166 Lynn K Leonidas #179 And Amy Flurry appeared before on episode #108   To order your copy of Amy's book go to Recipe For Press. Go to Luann Nigara, to the 'live events' tab, to find the RSVP link for the opening night, at Lefroy Brooks, of the ICFF at the AND Building on 22nd May. The first 25 people will receive a free book from LuAnn! To figure out all the things that you can do with MyDoma Studio go to My Doma Studio. To get onto LuAnn's email list text the word designbiz to 444 999, or go to her website www.luannnigara.com and go to the events page. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Last Friday we started a great conversation with Ashley Hotham-Cox, the editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor in Charlotte, about how to pitch yourself and how to get press. Today we are really happy to continue the conversation with Amy Flurry. Amy has appeared once before on the show, on episode #108 and she's really a smart lady, so if you haven't met her yet, you are really in for a treat! Listen in now to find out more!

Amy has two decades of editorial experience, conceiving ideas for stories, producing shoots, and writing copy for magazines and online publications. These include Country Living, In Style, Refinery 29, Conde Nast Traveller, Better Homes and Gardens, and Lucky Magazine. Amy authored Recipe For Press- Pitch Your Story and Create A Buzz, (which we spoke about in episode #108) after being inspired by her career in publishing. She has now written her second book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition. This book is filled to the brim with tools for interior designers, architects, landscape planners, and product designers who need to take advantage of any new media opportunities which are available. Amy applies her collective expertise- from trend direction to product and brand development, working with companies to expand their marketing strategies and to connect businesses to the interior design trade. Listen in to find out what she has to share with you on today's show.

Show highlights:

  • The really great advice that Amy gave to LuAnn when they first met.
  • About Amy's fabulous new book, Recipe For Press- Designer Edition.
  • The overarching points that Amy wanted to get across in her new book.
  • Why designers need to create a strategy for getting press.
  • The shift that Amy has seen lately, in the design industry.
  • The new opportunities that are available now, for designers to get their names out there.
  • Why you need to have a really good pitch.
  • How to create a killer pitch.
  • Why you really need to know what you want to get from the press.
  • Remember that all publications need content!
  • The amount of work that you're going to be in for when you engage with a publicist.
  • Why it makes more sense to pitch for publications in your neighborhood.
  • Press is not about ego- it's actually about business!
  • Working your way up- starting with your local press and local market.
  • About Amy's layering strategy.
  • The way that Amy creates events that are really worthwhile for everyone in the room.
  • Why retailers really want you, as interior designers, in their showrooms.
  • The importance of sharing- and recycling images.
  • Celebrating the things that set you apart from other designers.
  • Some of the fabulous resources that are available on Amy's website- Recipe For Press.
  • About Amy's incredible company- Paper-Cut-Project. You can see it on Instagram.

 Links:

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Laura Thurman #272

Claire Staszak #166

Lynn K Leonidas #179

And Amy Flurry appeared before on episode #108

 

To order your copy of Amy's book go to Recipe For Press.

Go to Luann Nigara, to the 'live events' tab, to find the RSVP link for the opening night, at Lefroy Brooks, of the ICFF at the AND Building on 22nd May. The first 25 people will receive a free book from LuAnn!

To figure out all the things that you can do with MyDoma Studio go to My Doma Studio.

To get onto LuAnn's email list text the word designbiz to 444 999, or go to her website www.luannnigara.com and go to the events page.

]]> 4622 no 322: Deborah Von Donop: Understanding Why and How to Monetize Your Interior Design Blog http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/322-deborah-von-donop-understanding-why-and-how-to-monetize-your-interior-design-blog Welcome to today's episode! On the show today we are going to be having an in-depth conversation with Deborah Von Donop, an interior designer, and well-known blogger. We will be talking to Deborah about monetizing your blog and also about how and why it is really important to create a content-rich blog, in order to drive readers and design enthusiasts to your website for the opportunity to monetize through affiliate links and sponsored content. Listen in to find out more about networking as your biggest resource for growth.               Deborah is the principal of DVD Interiors in Connecticut and she is the editor and founder of the national blog DVD Interior Design. Deborah also guests blogs for a number of other sites, including Westchester Magazine, I blog Magazine, Blissfully Domestic.Com and more. She writes weekly posts about design resources, highlights from industry events and also interior design topics which are aimed to educate and inspire her readers. Deborah's experience includes a BFA in Interior Architecture from Cal State University in Long Beach, a CCIDQ certification, an NCIDQ certification and a LEED GA credential. All of this combines really well to bring an in-depth knowledge to all of her projects. Listen in now to find out what Deborah has to share about upping your game in social media. Note- This show with Deborah pairs very nicely with the upcoming show featuring Claire Jefford, which will air next week. It follows up on today's show with how to create your own content to sell through your website and blog, so be on the lookout for that! Show highlights: Deborah discusses her evolution from interior designer to online media marketing expert. How Deborah really got to grips with the online marketing space from the inside out. How the online marketing space has really widened Deborah's opportunities. How Deborah is now applying her experience from her blog, over the last few years, to her interior design business. Why Deborah really loves to teach people about the importance of republishing their work. Why you really have to give a lot before asking for anything back in the online space. Three good places to start with monetizing your blog. How advertising has evolved to become more sophisticated. Making money through affiliate marketing. Why middle bloggers are rising in the online space. Why you should always be consistent with your message in the online space. About word of mouth marketing. Ten great online environment options. Getting your blog to the point where you can monetize it. How much traffic you need to be a successful affiliate marketer. The benefits of using evergreen content in your blog. Creating income through sponsored content. Why you have to be really passionate about blogging to make it. Links: To contact Deborah, or to get her Visibility Package go to DvD Interior Design  Book mentioned on the show: Jab Jab Jab Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck. To get all the details about the Kips Bay show-house go to Kips Bay show-house Tue, 08 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! On the show today we are going to be having an in-depth conversation with Deborah Von Donop, an interior designer, and well-known blogger. We will be talking to Deborah about monetizing your blog and also about how and why... Welcome to today's episode! On the show today we are going to be having an in-depth conversation with Deborah Von Donop, an interior designer, and well-known blogger. We will be talking to Deborah about monetizing your blog and also about how and why it is really important to create a content-rich blog, in order to drive readers and design enthusiasts to your website for the opportunity to monetize through affiliate links and sponsored content. Listen in to find out more about networking as your biggest resource for growth.               Deborah is the principal of DVD Interiors in Connecticut and she is the editor and founder of the national blog DVD Interior Design. Deborah also guests blogs for a number of other sites, including Westchester Magazine, I blog Magazine, Blissfully Domestic.Com and more. She writes weekly posts about design resources, highlights from industry events and also interior design topics which are aimed to educate and inspire her readers. Deborah's experience includes a BFA in Interior Architecture from Cal State University in Long Beach, a CCIDQ certification, an NCIDQ certification and a LEED GA credential. All of this combines really well to bring an in-depth knowledge to all of her projects. Listen in now to find out what Deborah has to share about upping your game in social media. Note- This show with Deborah pairs very nicely with the upcoming show featuring Claire Jefford, which will air next week. It follows up on today's show with how to create your own content to sell through your website and blog, so be on the lookout for that! Show highlights: Deborah discusses her evolution from interior designer to online media marketing expert. How Deborah really got to grips with the online marketing space from the inside out. How the online marketing space has really widened Deborah's opportunities. How Deborah is now applying her experience from her blog, over the last few years, to her interior design business. Why Deborah really loves to teach people about the importance of republishing their work. Why you really have to give a lot before asking for anything back in the online space. Three good places to start with monetizing your blog. How advertising has evolved to become more sophisticated. Making money through affiliate marketing. Why middle bloggers are rising in the online space. Why you should always be consistent with your message in the online space. About word of mouth marketing. Ten great online environment options. Getting your blog to the point where you can monetize it. How much traffic you need to be a successful affiliate marketer. The benefits of using evergreen content in your blog. Creating income through sponsored content. Why you have to be really passionate about blogging to make it. Links: To contact Deborah, or to get her Visibility Package go to DvD Interior Design  Book mentioned on the show: Jab Jab Jab Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck. To get all the details about the Kips Bay show-house go to Kips Bay show-house Welcome to today's episode! On the show today we are going to be having an in-depth conversation with Deborah Von Donop, an interior designer, and well-known blogger. We will be talking to Deborah about monetizing your blog and also about how and why it is really important to create a content-rich blog, in order to drive readers and design enthusiasts to your website for the opportunity to monetize through affiliate links and sponsored content. Listen in to find out more about networking as your biggest resource for growth.              

Deborah is the principal of DVD Interiors in Connecticut and she is the editor and founder of the national blog DVD Interior Design. Deborah also guests blogs for a number of other sites, including Westchester Magazine, I blog Magazine, Blissfully Domestic.Com and more. She writes weekly posts about design resources, highlights from industry events and also interior design topics which are aimed to educate and inspire her readers. Deborah's experience includes a BFA in Interior Architecture from Cal State University in Long Beach, a CCIDQ certification, an NCIDQ certification and a LEED GA credential. All of this combines really well to bring an in-depth knowledge to all of her projects. Listen in now to find out what Deborah has to share about upping your game in social media.

Note- This show with Deborah pairs very nicely with the upcoming show featuring Claire Jefford, which will air next week. It follows up on today's show with how to create your own content to sell through your website and blog, so be on the lookout for that!

Show highlights:

  • Deborah discusses her evolution from interior designer to online media marketing expert.
  • How Deborah really got to grips with the online marketing space from the inside out.
  • How the online marketing space has really widened Deborah's opportunities.
  • How Deborah is now applying her experience from her blog, over the last few years, to her interior design business.
  • Why Deborah really loves to teach people about the importance of republishing their work.
  • Why you really have to give a lot before asking for anything back in the online space.
  • Three good places to start with monetizing your blog.
  • How advertising has evolved to become more sophisticated.
  • Making money through affiliate marketing.
  • Why middle bloggers are rising in the online space.
  • Why you should always be consistent with your message in the online space.
  • About word of mouth marketing.
  • Ten great online environment options.
  • Getting your blog to the point where you can monetize it.
  • How much traffic you need to be a successful affiliate marketer.
  • The benefits of using evergreen content in your blog.
  • Creating income through sponsored content.
  • Why you have to be really passionate about blogging to make it.

Links:

To contact Deborah, or to get her Visibility Package go to DvD Interior Design 

Book mentioned on the show: Jab Jab Jab Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck.

To get all the details about the Kips Bay show-house go to Kips Bay show-house

]]> 4199 no 321: Power Talk Friday - Ashley Hotham Cox: Why Regional Press is Important http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/321-power-talk-friday-ashley-hotham-cox-why-regional-press-is-important Welcome to today's episode! We are really happy to have Ashley Hotham Cox with us and she's going to be a really hot topic on the show today!  Ashley comes with a significant level of experience. She used to be with Traditional Home and now she is the newly appointed editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor. Listen in today to find out what Ashley has to share about promoting your design work through features in interior design magazines.       Ashley is a long-time Charlotte local- with a twist. As a North Carolina native, she graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor of arts degree in fashion and a master's degree in journalism before earning her experience as a writer at Charlotte, Charlotte Wedding, and Charlotte Home & Garden magazines, and also as an editor at Traditional Home in New York. She is also a designer, having earned her certificate in interior design from the Parsons School of Design. Ashley returned home in 2016 to join the team of Home Design & Decor. Listen in now to find out more about how to pitch successfully, to be featured in design publications. Show highlights: Ashley discusses the big differences between what she was doing at Traditional Home and what she's doing now as an editor-in-chief at Home Design & Decor. Ashley discusses an overview of the editorial calendar and what she's looking out for, and how this affects you, as designers. Finding the cut-off dates for specific features. What you can do if you miss the cut-off date for a certain feature to promote some work that you've done. Weighing up if you should publish on Instagram or not if you have missed a deadline. Everything is always subject to change in time. Becoming really familiar with a specific publication before pitching your work to them. Ashley discusses what her front-of-book looked like for last year. The exceptions to the rule of featuring new design projects only. The kind of pitch that really gets Ashley's attention. What you need, in order to be considered for a magazine feature. Why you shouldn't be discouraged if you get a 'no' from an editor. Photography is not cheap, so should you supply your own photos for a magazine feature, or not? Why you need to turn the lights off when taking pictures for a publication. Photographing interiors is very different to taking real estate shots. Why Ashley doesn't really buy into trends. Why you need to really get to know about a publication before pitching them. Ashley's favorite thing about her job. Things that will really make your project different, bring life to an interior- and a great story! Social Media: Instagram: @AshleyHCox @Clt_homedesigndecor @tri_homedesigndecor Fri, 04 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We are really happy to have Ashley Hotham Cox with us and she's going to be a really hot topic on the show today!  Ashley comes with a significant level of experience. She used to be with Traditional Home and now she... Welcome to today's episode! We are really happy to have Ashley Hotham Cox with us and she's going to be a really hot topic on the show today!  Ashley comes with a significant level of experience. She used to be with Traditional Home and now she is the newly appointed editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor. Listen in today to find out what Ashley has to share about promoting your design work through features in interior design magazines.       Ashley is a long-time Charlotte local- with a twist. As a North Carolina native, she graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor of arts degree in fashion and a master's degree in journalism before earning her experience as a writer at Charlotte, Charlotte Wedding, and Charlotte Home & Garden magazines, and also as an editor at Traditional Home in New York. She is also a designer, having earned her certificate in interior design from the Parsons School of Design. Ashley returned home in 2016 to join the team of Home Design & Decor. Listen in now to find out more about how to pitch successfully, to be featured in design publications. Show highlights: Ashley discusses the big differences between what she was doing at Traditional Home and what she's doing now as an editor-in-chief at Home Design & Decor. Ashley discusses an overview of the editorial calendar and what she's looking out for, and how this affects you, as designers. Finding the cut-off dates for specific features. What you can do if you miss the cut-off date for a certain feature to promote some work that you've done. Weighing up if you should publish on Instagram or not if you have missed a deadline. Everything is always subject to change in time. Becoming really familiar with a specific publication before pitching your work to them. Ashley discusses what her front-of-book looked like for last year. The exceptions to the rule of featuring new design projects only. The kind of pitch that really gets Ashley's attention. What you need, in order to be considered for a magazine feature. Why you shouldn't be discouraged if you get a 'no' from an editor. Photography is not cheap, so should you supply your own photos for a magazine feature, or not? Why you need to turn the lights off when taking pictures for a publication. Photographing interiors is very different to taking real estate shots. Why Ashley doesn't really buy into trends. Why you need to really get to know about a publication before pitching them. Ashley's favorite thing about her job. Things that will really make your project different, bring life to an interior- and a great story! Social Media: Instagram: @AshleyHCox @Clt_homedesigndecor @tri_homedesigndecor Welcome to today's episode! We are really happy to have Ashley Hotham Cox with us and she's going to be a really hot topic on the show today!  Ashley comes with a significant level of experience. She used to be with Traditional Home and now she is the newly appointed editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor. Listen in today to find out what Ashley has to share about promoting your design work through features in interior design magazines.      

Ashley is a long-time Charlotte local- with a twist. As a North Carolina native, she graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor of arts degree in fashion and a master's degree in journalism before earning her experience as a writer at Charlotte, Charlotte Wedding, and Charlotte Home & Garden magazines, and also as an editor at Traditional Home in New York. She is also a designer, having earned her certificate in interior design from the Parsons School of Design. Ashley returned home in 2016 to join the team of Home Design & Decor. Listen in now to find out more about how to pitch successfully, to be featured in design publications.

Show highlights:

  • Ashley discusses the big differences between what she was doing at Traditional Home and what she's doing now as an editor-in-chief at Home Design & Decor.
  • Ashley discusses an overview of the editorial calendar and what she's looking out for, and how this affects you, as designers.
  • Finding the cut-off dates for specific features.
  • What you can do if you miss the cut-off date for a certain feature to promote some work that you've done.
  • Weighing up if you should publish on Instagram or not if you have missed a deadline.
  • Everything is always subject to change in time.
  • Becoming really familiar with a specific publication before pitching your work to them.
  • Ashley discusses what her front-of-book looked like for last year.
  • The exceptions to the rule of featuring new design projects only.
  • The kind of pitch that really gets Ashley's attention.
  • What you need, in order to be considered for a magazine feature.
  • Why you shouldn't be discouraged if you get a 'no' from an editor.
  • Photography is not cheap, so should you supply your own photos for a magazine feature, or not?
  • Why you need to turn the lights off when taking pictures for a publication.
  • Photographing interiors is very different to taking real estate shots.
  • Why Ashley doesn't really buy into trends.
  • Why you need to really get to know about a publication before pitching them.
  • Ashley's favorite thing about her job.
  • Things that will really make your project different, bring life to an interior- and a great story!

Social Media:

Instagram:

@AshleyHCox

@Clt_homedesigndecor

@tri_homedesigndecor

]]> 3550 no 320: Jo Buckerfield: Stand Apart From Other Interior Design Firms http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/320-jo-buckerfield-stand-apart-from-other-interior-design-firms Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have Jo Buckerfield with us today. She is the designer and project manager for the UK based design firm Your Space Living and her husband, Mike Buckerfield, is their studio manager. Mike has been Jo's champion in getting her onto the podcast and it's been no easy task because it's just not her thing to go out and be interviewed! Mike emailed LuAnn a few months back, saying that he'd been listening to the show and that he loves it! He explained that having Jo on the show would really bring it so much value because she is truly an amazing designer in the UK, so listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. When the home design company that Jo had been working for as a furniture designer for many years went out of business unexpectedly in 2012, she wanted to ensure that the clients who had been left with unfinished projects still got their dream homes. That was when Your Space Living was born. Working tirelessly and out-of-pocket for six months, Jo and Mike completed every one of the abandoned projects, and so they laid the foundations for the successful company that they are still running today! Jo's design expertise, creativity, and vision allow them to go beyond the standard and create beautiful spaces that meet the needs of modern-day families. Listen in now to find out more. Show highlights: Jo is a full-service interior designer who leads with her kitchen design- she explains how this really works for her interior design firm. Jo explains all about her great reward-based client referral system, which is also an awesome marketing tool. How Jo evolved to becoming a project manager. Jo's really rewarding personal approach to her clients. The lovely gift hampers that Jo gives her clients to say 'thank you' at the end of a project. The little touches that serve as reminders to Jo's past clients. The intentional way that Jo keeps a positive spin about kitchen design on her website. The massive difference between kitchen design and interior design. How Jo manages to have enough time to spend with her clients through doing mainly kitchen design. The recent evolution of kitchen design. Why it really helps to understand the construction aspect of design. How Jo really puts her heart and soul into the industry. Jo's way of dealing with potential clients who are not the right fit for her business. Constantly tweaking her website to ensure that the right message is being put out there. Adding value for clients by giving them the right advice. Ways to be able to work with your ideal client with no worries. Social Media: Your Space Living Facebook Twitter Instagram: @yourspaceliving Tue, 01 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have Jo Buckerfield with us today. She is the designer and project manager for the UK based design firm Your Space Living and her husband, Mike Buckerfield, is their studio manager. Mike has been Jo's... Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have Jo Buckerfield with us today. She is the designer and project manager for the UK based design firm Your Space Living and her husband, Mike Buckerfield, is their studio manager. Mike has been Jo's champion in getting her onto the podcast and it's been no easy task because it's just not her thing to go out and be interviewed! Mike emailed LuAnn a few months back, saying that he'd been listening to the show and that he loves it! He explained that having Jo on the show would really bring it so much value because she is truly an amazing designer in the UK, so listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today. When the home design company that Jo had been working for as a furniture designer for many years went out of business unexpectedly in 2012, she wanted to ensure that the clients who had been left with unfinished projects still got their dream homes. That was when Your Space Living was born. Working tirelessly and out-of-pocket for six months, Jo and Mike completed every one of the abandoned projects, and so they laid the foundations for the successful company that they are still running today! Jo's design expertise, creativity, and vision allow them to go beyond the standard and create beautiful spaces that meet the needs of modern-day families. Listen in now to find out more. Show highlights: Jo is a full-service interior designer who leads with her kitchen design- she explains how this really works for her interior design firm. Jo explains all about her great reward-based client referral system, which is also an awesome marketing tool. How Jo evolved to becoming a project manager. Jo's really rewarding personal approach to her clients. The lovely gift hampers that Jo gives her clients to say 'thank you' at the end of a project. The little touches that serve as reminders to Jo's past clients. The intentional way that Jo keeps a positive spin about kitchen design on her website. The massive difference between kitchen design and interior design. How Jo manages to have enough time to spend with her clients through doing mainly kitchen design. The recent evolution of kitchen design. Why it really helps to understand the construction aspect of design. How Jo really puts her heart and soul into the industry. Jo's way of dealing with potential clients who are not the right fit for her business. Constantly tweaking her website to ensure that the right message is being put out there. Adding value for clients by giving them the right advice. Ways to be able to work with your ideal client with no worries. Social Media: Your Space Living Facebook Twitter Instagram: @yourspaceliving Welcome to today's show! We are really happy to have Jo Buckerfield with us today. She is the designer and project manager for the UK based design firm Your Space Living and her husband, Mike Buckerfield, is their studio manager. Mike has been Jo's champion in getting her onto the podcast and it's been no easy task because it's just not her thing to go out and be interviewed! Mike emailed LuAnn a few months back, saying that he'd been listening to the show and that he loves it! He explained that having Jo on the show would really bring it so much value because she is truly an amazing designer in the UK, so listen in to find out what she has to share on the show today.

When the home design company that Jo had been working for as a furniture designer for many years went out of business unexpectedly in 2012, she wanted to ensure that the clients who had been left with unfinished projects still got their dream homes. That was when Your Space Living was born. Working tirelessly and out-of-pocket for six months, Jo and Mike completed every one of the abandoned projects, and so they laid the foundations for the successful company that they are still running today! Jo's design expertise, creativity, and vision allow them to go beyond the standard and create beautiful spaces that meet the needs of modern-day families. Listen in now to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Jo is a full-service interior designer who leads with her kitchen design- she explains how this really works for her interior design firm.
  • Jo explains all about her great reward-based client referral system, which is also an awesome marketing tool.
  • How Jo evolved to becoming a project manager.
  • Jo's really rewarding personal approach to her clients.
  • The lovely gift hampers that Jo gives her clients to say 'thank you' at the end of a project.
  • The little touches that serve as reminders to Jo's past clients.
  • The intentional way that Jo keeps a positive spin about kitchen design on her website.
  • The massive difference between kitchen design and interior design.
  • How Jo manages to have enough time to spend with her clients through doing mainly kitchen design.
  • The recent evolution of kitchen design.
  • Why it really helps to understand the construction aspect of design.
  • How Jo really puts her heart and soul into the industry.
  • Jo's way of dealing with potential clients who are not the right fit for her business.
  • Constantly tweaking her website to ensure that the right message is being put out there.
  • Adding value for clients by giving them the right advice.
  • Ways to be able to work with your ideal client with no worries.
Social Media: Your Space Living Facebook Twitter Instagram: @yourspaceliving]]> 3570 no 319: Power Talk Friday: Kristan McLaughlin - Your Local Design Center As A Resource for Your Interior Design Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/319-powerr-talk-friday-kristan-mclaughlin-your-local-design-center-as-a-resource-for-your-interior-design-projects There is a new landscape to how consumers are shopping for design products. More and more design clients are choosing products and features online. It might seem like the heyday of the local Design Center is over, but that is far from the truth. Your local design center is an ever-evolving resource for you and all of your design products. How can you properly utilize a design center to keep up with a changing industry? How do they remain a designer-focused tool, rather than a consumer-focused tool? My guest, Kristan McLaughlin, is going to answer all of this and more! Kristan McLaughlin is the General Manager of Leasing & Partnerships at the Boston Design Center (BDC), the region’s preeminent destination for luxury interior furnishings. For the last 4 years, she has been overseeing the massive 350,000 sq. ft. space that houses 70 home and contract showrooms. Kristan is also the President of the Design Centers International, a Board Member of the Decorative Furnishings Association and a partner to many such as Boston Home, Design New England, and New England Home to name a few. Kristan is a proud mom of 5 humans and 2 Golden Retrievers - Hula and Finn - who keep her from becoming a true empty-nester. She and her family look forward to moving back to Boston in the future and decorating their “grown-up home.” I am excited for you to hear so much more about how the Boston Design Center is ahead of the curve in innovation and style. You won’t want to miss out! More in this episode: Why a Design Center is still an important part of the new landscape of consumer purchases. Why a Design Center is the place for the most “Aha” moments! Design Centers across the country are absolutely evolving to the new market and new consumer. Event spaces and conference rooms are just another way the Centers are utilizing their spaces well. Clients don’t have to come in with a designer. Discover the product search engine that was designed within the industry! The new offerings that Design Centers are doing to make their services even more accessible. Being a part of the Design Center can be a good way to keep your foot in the field. Engaging with the internet is good for business. Resources: Boston Design @bostondesigncenter Facebook: Boston Design Center @kristanmclaughlin Fri, 27 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara There is a new landscape to how consumers are shopping for design products. More and more design clients are choosing products and features online. It might seem like the heyday of the local Design Center is over, but that is far from the truth. Your... There is a new landscape to how consumers are shopping for design products. More and more design clients are choosing products and features online. It might seem like the heyday of the local Design Center is over, but that is far from the truth. Your local design center is an ever-evolving resource for you and all of your design products. How can you properly utilize a design center to keep up with a changing industry? How do they remain a designer-focused tool, rather than a consumer-focused tool? My guest, Kristan McLaughlin, is going to answer all of this and more! Kristan McLaughlin is the General Manager of Leasing & Partnerships at the Boston Design Center (BDC), the region’s preeminent destination for luxury interior furnishings. For the last 4 years, she has been overseeing the massive 350,000 sq. ft. space that houses 70 home and contract showrooms. Kristan is also the President of the Design Centers International, a Board Member of the Decorative Furnishings Association and a partner to many such as Boston Home, Design New England, and New England Home to name a few. Kristan is a proud mom of 5 humans and 2 Golden Retrievers - Hula and Finn - who keep her from becoming a true empty-nester. She and her family look forward to moving back to Boston in the future and decorating their “grown-up home.” I am excited for you to hear so much more about how the Boston Design Center is ahead of the curve in innovation and style. You won’t want to miss out! More in this episode: Why a Design Center is still an important part of the new landscape of consumer purchases. Why a Design Center is the place for the most “Aha” moments! Design Centers across the country are absolutely evolving to the new market and new consumer. Event spaces and conference rooms are just another way the Centers are utilizing their spaces well. Clients don’t have to come in with a designer. Discover the product search engine that was designed within the industry! The new offerings that Design Centers are doing to make their services even more accessible. Being a part of the Design Center can be a good way to keep your foot in the field. Engaging with the internet is good for business. Resources: Boston Design @bostondesigncenter Facebook: Boston Design Center @kristanmclaughlin There is a new landscape to how consumers are shopping for design products. More and more design clients are choosing products and features online. It might seem like the heyday of the local Design Center is over, but that is far from the truth. Your local design center is an ever-evolving resource for you and all of your design products. How can you properly utilize a design center to keep up with a changing industry? How do they remain a designer-focused tool, rather than a consumer-focused tool? My guest, Kristan McLaughlin, is going to answer all of this and more!

Kristan McLaughlin is the General Manager of Leasing & Partnerships at the Boston Design Center (BDC), the region’s preeminent destination for luxury interior furnishings. For the last 4 years, she has been overseeing the massive 350,000 sq. ft. space that houses 70 home and contract showrooms. Kristan is also the President of the Design Centers International, a Board Member of the Decorative Furnishings Association and a partner to many such as Boston Home, Design New England, and New England Home to name a few. Kristan is a proud mom of 5 humans and 2 Golden Retrievers - Hula and Finn - who keep her from becoming a true empty-nester. She and her family look forward to moving back to Boston in the future and decorating their “grown-up home.”

I am excited for you to hear so much more about how the Boston Design Center is ahead of the curve in innovation and style. You won’t want to miss out!

More in this episode:

  • Why a Design Center is still an important part of the new landscape of consumer purchases.
  • Why a Design Center is the place for the most “Aha” moments!
  • Design Centers across the country are absolutely evolving to the new market and new consumer.
  • Event spaces and conference rooms are just another way the Centers are utilizing their spaces well.
  • Clients don’t have to come in with a designer.
  • Discover the product search engine that was designed within the industry!
  • The new offerings that Design Centers are doing to make their services even more accessible.
  • Being a part of the Design Center can be a good way to keep your foot in the field.
  • Engaging with the internet is good for business.

Resources:

Boston Design

@bostondesigncenter

Facebook: Boston Design Center

@kristanmclaughlin

]]> 3298 no 318: Jill Zarin: Designing a Line of Area Rugs http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/318-jill-zarin-designing-a-line-of-area-rugs Welcome to today's show! We are delighted to introduce you to our guest for the show, Jill Zarin. Jill is a  veteran of the TV show Real Housewives of New York, and wife of the late Bobby Zarin, owner of Zarin Fabrics in New York. We will be talking to Jill today about Zarin Fabrics, about the rug line that she has recently launched with Unique Loom, and about her luxury ladies lunch that she hosts every year in the Hamptons for charity. Jill has also promised to give us a tour of her apartment in New York City, which boasts some pieces from DXV for the faucets, and all her rugs are there, too! Listen in to find out more! Last fall, Unique Loom, one of the most plentiful sources of handmade and power loomed rugs in the world, teamed up with Jill to create their very first rug collaboration. It's a vibrant collection, offering bold, colorful options with an airy and modern feel. This collection delivers quality design at an attainable price, which is a priority shared by both Jill and Unique Loom. The collection was inspired in part by Jill's personal style, as well as the various motifs found in the history of Manhattan's urban design. Listen today to find out more about this awesome collaboration. We're sure that every single person who knows Jill is thinking about her and everything that she went through recently, with the loss of her beloved husband, Bobby. Show highlights: The tedious way that advertising used to be done in the past. A little about the way that Zarin Fabrics used to be run in the past. Surprisingly enough, Zarin Fabrics is actually a fabric warehouse! Zarin Fabrics is the only drapery and upholstery supply company in the city of New York. Jill's experience with Macy's Training Program. Some of the projects and products lines that Jill developed prior to her collaboration with Unique Loom. Respecting the expertise of those who are in the know- unless your gut tells you otherwise! Jill's past jewelry lines and some mistakes she made with them. The wonderful partners that Jill has for her current line of rugs. The fantastic fabrics that Jill's rugs are made of. Jill discusses her fabulously affordable rug lines. How Jill has learned to go with the designs that she likes. All about Jill's luxury charity lunch this year, at Topping Rose House Hotel in the Hamptons. The valuable swag bags that Jill gives away at her charity lunches. The celebrities that show up for Jill's charity lunches. The entrepreneurial aspect of Jill's charity lunches. Enjoy the tour of Jill's apartment. The phenomenal DXV design pieces in Jill's apartment. Links: Jills website: Jill Zarin eSale Rugs Jill on Social Media: Facebook Twitter Instagram Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!! MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to MyDoma Studio to learn more. Tue, 24 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We are delighted to introduce you to our guest for the show, Jill Zarin. Jill is a  veteran of the TV show Real Housewives of New York, and wife of the late Bobby Zarin, owner of Zarin Fabrics in New York. We will be... Welcome to today's show! We are delighted to introduce you to our guest for the show, Jill Zarin. Jill is a  veteran of the TV show Real Housewives of New York, and wife of the late Bobby Zarin, owner of Zarin Fabrics in New York. We will be talking to Jill today about Zarin Fabrics, about the rug line that she has recently launched with Unique Loom, and about her luxury ladies lunch that she hosts every year in the Hamptons for charity. Jill has also promised to give us a tour of her apartment in New York City, which boasts some pieces from DXV for the faucets, and all her rugs are there, too! Listen in to find out more! Last fall, Unique Loom, one of the most plentiful sources of handmade and power loomed rugs in the world, teamed up with Jill to create their very first rug collaboration. It's a vibrant collection, offering bold, colorful options with an airy and modern feel. This collection delivers quality design at an attainable price, which is a priority shared by both Jill and Unique Loom. The collection was inspired in part by Jill's personal style, as well as the various motifs found in the history of Manhattan's urban design. Listen today to find out more about this awesome collaboration. We're sure that every single person who knows Jill is thinking about her and everything that she went through recently, with the loss of her beloved husband, Bobby. Show highlights: The tedious way that advertising used to be done in the past. A little about the way that Zarin Fabrics used to be run in the past. Surprisingly enough, Zarin Fabrics is actually a fabric warehouse! Zarin Fabrics is the only drapery and upholstery supply company in the city of New York. Jill's experience with Macy's Training Program. Some of the projects and products lines that Jill developed prior to her collaboration with Unique Loom. Respecting the expertise of those who are in the know- unless your gut tells you otherwise! Jill's past jewelry lines and some mistakes she made with them. The wonderful partners that Jill has for her current line of rugs. The fantastic fabrics that Jill's rugs are made of. Jill discusses her fabulously affordable rug lines. How Jill has learned to go with the designs that she likes. All about Jill's luxury charity lunch this year, at Topping Rose House Hotel in the Hamptons. The valuable swag bags that Jill gives away at her charity lunches. The celebrities that show up for Jill's charity lunches. The entrepreneurial aspect of Jill's charity lunches. Enjoy the tour of Jill's apartment. The phenomenal DXV design pieces in Jill's apartment. Links: Jills website: Jill Zarin eSale Rugs Jill on Social Media: Facebook Twitter Instagram Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!! MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to MyDoma Studio to learn more. Welcome to today's show! We are delighted to introduce you to our guest for the show, Jill Zarin. Jill is a  veteran of the TV show Real Housewives of New York, and wife of the late Bobby Zarin, owner of Zarin Fabrics in New York. We will be talking to Jill today about Zarin Fabrics, about the rug line that she has recently launched with Unique Loom, and about her luxury ladies lunch that she hosts every year in the Hamptons for charity. Jill has also promised to give us a tour of her apartment in New York City, which boasts some pieces from DXV for the faucets, and all her rugs are there, too! Listen in to find out more!

Last fall, Unique Loom, one of the most plentiful sources of handmade and power loomed rugs in the world, teamed up with Jill to create their very first rug collaboration. It's a vibrant collection, offering bold, colorful options with an airy and modern feel. This collection delivers quality design at an attainable price, which is a priority shared by both Jill and Unique Loom. The collection was inspired in part by Jill's personal style, as well as the various motifs found in the history of Manhattan's urban design. Listen today to find out more about this awesome collaboration.

We're sure that every single person who knows Jill is thinking about her and everything that she went through recently, with the loss of her beloved husband, Bobby.

Show highlights:

  • The tedious way that advertising used to be done in the past.
  • A little about the way that Zarin Fabrics used to be run in the past.
  • Surprisingly enough, Zarin Fabrics is actually a fabric warehouse!
  • Zarin Fabrics is the only drapery and upholstery supply company in the city of New York.
  • Jill's experience with Macy's Training Program.
  • Some of the projects and products lines that Jill developed prior to her collaboration with Unique Loom.
  • Respecting the expertise of those who are in the know- unless your gut tells you otherwise!
  • Jill's past jewelry lines and some mistakes she made with them.
  • The wonderful partners that Jill has for her current line of rugs.
  • The fantastic fabrics that Jill's rugs are made of.
  • Jill discusses her fabulously affordable rug lines.
  • How Jill has learned to go with the designs that she likes.
  • All about Jill's luxury charity lunch this year, at Topping Rose House Hotel in the Hamptons.
  • The valuable swag bags that Jill gives away at her charity lunches.
  • The celebrities that show up for Jill's charity lunches.
  • The entrepreneurial aspect of Jill's charity lunches.
  • Enjoy the tour of Jill's apartment.
  • The phenomenal DXV design pieces in Jill's apartment.

Links:

Jills website: Jill Zarin

eSale Rugs

Jill on Social Media:

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!!

MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to MyDoma Studio to learn more.

]]> 3585 no 317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/317-nicole-heymer-6-keys-to-planning-a-website-that-makes-things-happen-0 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very excited to have Nicole Heymer back on the show today! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency that specializes in branding and websites for interior design firms and other interesting and creative businesses. Nicole is the genius behind my LuAnn Nigara website- and I really love it! There are certain things that we do that really represent who we are and what we do and my website is one of those things for me! And one of the reasons for Nicole coming back on the show is rooted in my own experience of being part of her company and going through the whole discovery process of building my website with her.  Listen in today as Nicole takes us through her entire, really organized and actionable process- it's just like therapy for your business! Nicole's clear and actionable approach to branding has been featured by some of the design industry's favorite resources and organizations. From ASID's Tech Talk series to the New Jersey chapter and also to the Window Coverings Association of America, Nicole is an active ASID partner and she currently serves as the editor of the New Jersey chapter's Blueprint Magazine. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Stepping back to get an overview of what you're doing. Starting out with a very clear plan. How Nicole developed her process. The whole planning process. Looking ahead to the goals that you want to accomplish- then doing things in the correct order. Some of the goals that designers could aspire towards. Getting to grips with the messaging on your website. Clearly showing people who and where you are, and what you do, on your website. Being truthful with your messaging when creating your brand. Taking your budget into account when planning your website. Getting really clear about who you want to take action on your website. Getting clear about the kind of action that you would like to be taken on your website. Some things to consider when setting up your website. Nurturing your clients' needs with lead magnets. Telling the story of a project with your portfolio. Ways of driving more traffic to your website. Coming up with content for a blog. About Nicole's Brand Discovery Class that's coming up shortly. Go to brandingdiscovery.com to find out more. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125 How To Brand Your Interior Design Business Rachel Cannon #306 Sandra Espinet #287 Kae Whitaker #259 Marina Umali #248 Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Fri, 20 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very excited to have Nicole Heymer back on the show today! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency that specializes in branding and websites for interior design firms and other interesting... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very excited to have Nicole Heymer back on the show today! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency that specializes in branding and websites for interior design firms and other interesting and creative businesses. Nicole is the genius behind my LuAnn Nigara website- and I really love it! There are certain things that we do that really represent who we are and what we do and my website is one of those things for me! And one of the reasons for Nicole coming back on the show is rooted in my own experience of being part of her company and going through the whole discovery process of building my website with her.  Listen in today as Nicole takes us through her entire, really organized and actionable process- it's just like therapy for your business! Nicole's clear and actionable approach to branding has been featured by some of the design industry's favorite resources and organizations. From ASID's Tech Talk series to the New Jersey chapter and also to the Window Coverings Association of America, Nicole is an active ASID partner and she currently serves as the editor of the New Jersey chapter's Blueprint Magazine. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: Stepping back to get an overview of what you're doing. Starting out with a very clear plan. How Nicole developed her process. The whole planning process. Looking ahead to the goals that you want to accomplish- then doing things in the correct order. Some of the goals that designers could aspire towards. Getting to grips with the messaging on your website. Clearly showing people who and where you are, and what you do, on your website. Being truthful with your messaging when creating your brand. Taking your budget into account when planning your website. Getting really clear about who you want to take action on your website. Getting clear about the kind of action that you would like to be taken on your website. Some things to consider when setting up your website. Nurturing your clients' needs with lead magnets. Telling the story of a project with your portfolio. Ways of driving more traffic to your website. Coming up with content for a blog. About Nicole's Brand Discovery Class that's coming up shortly. Go to brandingdiscovery.com to find out more. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #125 How To Brand Your Interior Design Business Rachel Cannon #306 Sandra Espinet #287 Kae Whitaker #259 Marina Umali #248 Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very excited to have Nicole Heymer back on the show today! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency that specializes in branding and websites for interior design firms and other interesting and creative businesses. Nicole is the genius behind my LuAnn Nigara website- and I really love it! There are certain things that we do that really represent who we are and what we do and my website is one of those things for me! And one of the reasons for Nicole coming back on the show is rooted in my own experience of being part of her company and going through the whole discovery process of building my website with her.  Listen in today as Nicole takes us through her entire, really organized and actionable process- it's just like therapy for your business!

Nicole's clear and actionable approach to branding has been featured by some of the design industry's favorite resources and organizations. From ASID's Tech Talk series to the New Jersey chapter and also to the Window Coverings Association of America, Nicole is an active ASID partner and she currently serves as the editor of the New Jersey chapter's Blueprint Magazine. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Stepping back to get an overview of what you're doing.
  • Starting out with a very clear plan.
  • How Nicole developed her process.
  • The whole planning process.
  • Looking ahead to the goals that you want to accomplish- then doing things in the correct order.
  • Some of the goals that designers could aspire towards.
  • Getting to grips with the messaging on your website.
  • Clearly showing people who and where you are, and what you do, on your website.
  • Being truthful with your messaging when creating your brand.
  • Taking your budget into account when planning your website.
  • Getting really clear about who you want to take action on your website.
  • Getting clear about the kind of action that you would like to be taken on your website.
  • Some things to consider when setting up your website.
  • Nurturing your clients' needs with lead magnets.
  • Telling the story of a project with your portfolio.
  • Ways of driving more traffic to your website.
  • Coming up with content for a blog.
  • About Nicole's Brand Discovery Class that's coming up shortly. Go to brandingdiscovery.com to find out more.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Nicole Heymer #125 How To Brand Your Interior Design Business

Rachel Cannon #306

Sandra Espinet #287

Kae Whitaker #259

Marina Umali #248

Nancy Ganzekaupher #256

]]> 4318 no 316: Wendy Woloshchuk: FaceBook: The Primary Marketing Tool for Her Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/316-wendy-wolshchuk-facebookthe-primary-marketing-tool-for-her-interior-design-business Welcome to today's show! We have Wendy Woloshchuk with us today and she's the principal of Details Full Service Interiors located in rural western Massachusetts. Wendy is a real inspiration for designers! She lives and works in a rural area almost two hours away from the nearest design center and yet she's killing it! This is because she knows exactly who her ideal client is and she's claimed it without wasting any time on ideas and pursuits that are not authentic to her client base and all her marketing is intentionally created to attract this client to her every day. It was really no easy task starting an interior design business in a very small community, in the middle of a recession! Wendy is known for her no-nonsense approach and for her creative style with it's attention to detail. Nothing makes her happier than when her clients see how she's managed to infuse their personalities into the design and they love the finished space! Listen in today and become inspired by Wendy, her business model, and her awesome business acumen. Wendy opened Details in 2007 after going back to school to learn interior design as her second career in 2005. Details Full-Service Interiors specializes in designing comfortable, personalized homes for busy families who want to make the most of their family time and resources. Wendy has been using Facebook as her primary marketing tool for the last five years. She shares fun tips and decorating ideas on her Facebook daily live show, The Daily Details, and she has recently started a consumer-facing Facebook group, called The Details Design & Decorating  Club, in order to keep her following and her business growing. Listen in now to find out more about Wendy and the way she runs her rural design business. Just to let you know- this show is also available as a video presentation on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well- Designed Business. Show highlights: How Wendy first got into using Facebook Live consistently for her marketing. Wendy walks through her whole process of pushing through with Facebook Live. Ways to come across naturally and authentically in your videos. How Wendy creates the content for The Daily Details. How Wendy prepares herself for her Monday videos. Ways for you to emulate what Wendy has been doing on Facebook Live. When she really began to experience engagement on Facebook Live. There are people watching you on Facebook that you don't even know about! Why Wendy chose Facebook as her primary marketing tool. Finding where your ideal client is hanging out on social media. How Wendy found her niche within her community. How Facebook Live makes you more accessible to your ideal market. What it's like- and some tips for doing business in a rural area. The benefits of building a great relationship with your reps. Some free- and some for-purchase downloads that are available on Wendy's website. (Some of them are even MyDoma Studio packages.) You can arrange for a consultation with Wendy and you can also purchase pre-paid furniture packages and even accessories via MyDoma Studio. The benefits of having affiliate sites. The DIY package that's available on Wendy's website. Ways to build a portfolio on your website. LuAnn has done a six-show series on the how, the why and the technical aspects of Facebook for business. These shows can be found on her website (www.luannnigara.com) in the Social Media and Marketing collection. For more FB marketing tips please search social media on LuAnn Nigara Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!! MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to My Doma Studio to learn more. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Claire Jefford #237 Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214 Dixie Willard #273 Links: Details Full-Service Interiors   Facebook: Details Full Service Interiors   Instagram: Details Full Service Interiors Tue, 17 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Wendy Woloshchuk with us today and she's the principal of Details Full Service Interiors located in rural western Massachusetts. Wendy is a real inspiration for designers! She lives and works in a rural area almost two... Welcome to today's show! We have Wendy Woloshchuk with us today and she's the principal of Details Full Service Interiors located in rural western Massachusetts. Wendy is a real inspiration for designers! She lives and works in a rural area almost two hours away from the nearest design center and yet she's killing it! This is because she knows exactly who her ideal client is and she's claimed it without wasting any time on ideas and pursuits that are not authentic to her client base and all her marketing is intentionally created to attract this client to her every day. It was really no easy task starting an interior design business in a very small community, in the middle of a recession! Wendy is known for her no-nonsense approach and for her creative style with it's attention to detail. Nothing makes her happier than when her clients see how she's managed to infuse their personalities into the design and they love the finished space! Listen in today and become inspired by Wendy, her business model, and her awesome business acumen. Wendy opened Details in 2007 after going back to school to learn interior design as her second career in 2005. Details Full-Service Interiors specializes in designing comfortable, personalized homes for busy families who want to make the most of their family time and resources. Wendy has been using Facebook as her primary marketing tool for the last five years. She shares fun tips and decorating ideas on her Facebook daily live show, The Daily Details, and she has recently started a consumer-facing Facebook group, called The Details Design & Decorating  Club, in order to keep her following and her business growing. Listen in now to find out more about Wendy and the way she runs her rural design business. Just to let you know- this show is also available as a video presentation on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well- Designed Business. Show highlights: How Wendy first got into using Facebook Live consistently for her marketing. Wendy walks through her whole process of pushing through with Facebook Live. Ways to come across naturally and authentically in your videos. How Wendy creates the content for The Daily Details. How Wendy prepares herself for her Monday videos. Ways for you to emulate what Wendy has been doing on Facebook Live. When she really began to experience engagement on Facebook Live. There are people watching you on Facebook that you don't even know about! Why Wendy chose Facebook as her primary marketing tool. Finding where your ideal client is hanging out on social media. How Wendy found her niche within her community. How Facebook Live makes you more accessible to your ideal market. What it's like- and some tips for doing business in a rural area. The benefits of building a great relationship with your reps. Some free- and some for-purchase downloads that are available on Wendy's website. (Some of them are even MyDoma Studio packages.) You can arrange for a consultation with Wendy and you can also purchase pre-paid furniture packages and even accessories via MyDoma Studio. The benefits of having affiliate sites. The DIY package that's available on Wendy's website. Ways to build a portfolio on your website. LuAnn has done a six-show series on the how, the why and the technical aspects of Facebook for business. These shows can be found on her website (www.luannnigara.com) in the Social Media and Marketing collection. For more FB marketing tips please search social media on LuAnn Nigara Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!! MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to My Doma Studio to learn more. Other episodes mentioned on this show: Claire Jefford #237 Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214 Dixie Willard #273 Links: Details Full-Service Interiors   Facebook: Details Full Service Interiors   Instagram: Details Full Service Interiors Welcome to today's show! We have Wendy Woloshchuk with us today and she's the principal of Details Full Service Interiors located in rural western Massachusetts.

Wendy is a real inspiration for designers! She lives and works in a rural area almost two hours away from the nearest design center and yet she's killing it!

This is because she knows exactly who her ideal client is and she's claimed it without wasting any time on ideas and pursuits that are not authentic to her client base and all her marketing is intentionally created to attract this client to her every day.

It was really no easy task starting an interior design business in a very small community, in the middle of a recession! Wendy is known for her no-nonsense approach and for her creative style with it's attention to detail.

Nothing makes her happier than when her clients see how she's managed to infuse their personalities into the design and they love the finished space! Listen in today and become inspired by Wendy, her business model, and her awesome business acumen.

Wendy opened Details in 2007 after going back to school to learn interior design as her second career in 2005. Details Full-Service Interiors specializes in designing comfortable, personalized homes for busy families who want to make the most of their family time and resources.

Wendy has been using Facebook as her primary marketing tool for the last five years. She shares fun tips and decorating ideas on her Facebook daily live show, The Daily Details, and she has recently started a consumer-facing Facebook group, called The Details Design & Decorating  Club, in order to keep her following and her business growing. Listen in now to find out more about Wendy and the way she runs her rural design business.

Just to let you know- this show is also available as a video presentation on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well- Designed Business.

Show highlights:

  • How Wendy first got into using Facebook Live consistently for her marketing.
  • Wendy walks through her whole process of pushing through with Facebook Live.
  • Ways to come across naturally and authentically in your videos.
  • How Wendy creates the content for The Daily Details.
  • How Wendy prepares herself for her Monday videos.
  • Ways for you to emulate what Wendy has been doing on Facebook Live.
  • When she really began to experience engagement on Facebook Live.
  • There are people watching you on Facebook that you don't even know about!
  • Why Wendy chose Facebook as her primary marketing tool.
  • Finding where your ideal client is hanging out on social media.
  • How Wendy found her niche within her community.
  • How Facebook Live makes you more accessible to your ideal market.
  • What it's like- and some tips for doing business in a rural area.
  • The benefits of building a great relationship with your reps.
  • Some free- and some for-purchase downloads that are available on Wendy's website. (Some of them are even MyDoma Studio packages.)
  • You can arrange for a consultation with Wendy and you can also purchase pre-paid furniture packages and even accessories via MyDoma Studio.
  • The benefits of having affiliate sites.
  • The DIY package that's available on Wendy's website.
  • Ways to build a portfolio on your website.

LuAnn has done a six-show series on the how, the why and the technical aspects of Facebook for business. These shows can be found on her website (www.luannnigara.com) in the Social Media and Marketing collection.

For more FB marketing tips please search social media on LuAnn Nigara

Kravet has a new code for you. You can get 10% off any one project using Kravet fabric, trims or wallpaper—specify Kravet fabric, trim and wallpaper for your next interior design project and use the code AWDB10 at checkout!!

MyDoma Studio is a software platform that helps you manage your client projects easily and efficiently. Go to My Doma Studio to learn more.

Other episodes mentioned on this show:

Claire Jefford #237

Rachel Moriarty #55 and #214

Dixie Willard #273

Links:

Details Full-Service Interiors   Facebook: Details Full Service Interiors   Instagram: Details Full Service Interiors]]> 3777 no 315: Madeleine MacRae: Invest 5 Days to Improve Your Sales Skills http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/315madeleine-macrae-invest-5-days-to-improve-your-sales-skills Are you ready to harness the secrets of the best in the industry to create consistently amazing results in your business? this Power Talk Friday is Madeline MacRae. Madeline was LuAnn’s guest in episode 283, and returns for this episode. Madeline is the CEO, founder and chief innovator for MM MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm. MM MacRae specializes in the development and growth of pros and companies specializing in the home professionals industry. She is such a high energy, driven person, and she shares a wealth of knowledge on this episode. If you’re ready to do what it takes to achieve freedom and long-term growth in your business, you will want to absorb Madeline MacRae’s information like a sponge!    What you’ll hear in this episode: Madeline and LuAnn led a seminar on goal setting at the International Window Covering Expo in Tampa, FL, and discovered their ideas on goal setting are identical! 5 Day Sales Challenge (see 5 Day Sales Challenge Facebook Page) to help you learn the need for peer accountability, mindset and to give you concrete tools, that usually cost $3000.00 in our program, to help you tweak things in your business to make it more successful. It will also  make you a better salesperson. In addition, you will have a call to action each day. The 5 Day Sales Challenge will include Madeline making a live appearance in the group every day and will share ideas, inspiration, and to answer your questions. Madeline will do some episodes of Facebook Live leading up to the challenge and will let you know when she will appear in the group. Topics will include: Day 1: Master your Metrix Day 2: Confidence is King Day 3: Systems Make Sales Day 4: The Fortune is in the Follow-up There is Gold in your Nose! Discover your inner creativity in relation to sales. Learn the importance of getting a definite yes or no answer when selling. Utilize effective listening skills when listening to your clients’ needs. Learn when a client is really a client, not a potential client or lead.   Resources Mentioned in the Episode: mmmacrae.com for consulting and coaching Fasttrackmember.com for Madeline’s Bootcamp landing page 5 Day Sales Challenge on Facebook The 5 Levels of Leadership, by John C. Maxwell Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham Strengths-Based Leadership, by Tom Rath and Barry Conchie To get access to some of Madeleine’s goals training absolutely free go to Fast Track Sales Systems. Fri, 13 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you ready to harness the secrets of the best in the industry to create consistently amazing results in your business? this Power Talk Friday is Madeline MacRae. Madeline was LuAnn’s guest in episode 283, and returns for this episode. Madeline is... Are you ready to harness the secrets of the best in the industry to create consistently amazing results in your business? this Power Talk Friday is Madeline MacRae. Madeline was LuAnn’s guest in episode 283, and returns for this episode. Madeline is the CEO, founder and chief innovator for MM MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm. MM MacRae specializes in the development and growth of pros and companies specializing in the home professionals industry. She is such a high energy, driven person, and she shares a wealth of knowledge on this episode. If you’re ready to do what it takes to achieve freedom and long-term growth in your business, you will want to absorb Madeline MacRae’s information like a sponge!    What you’ll hear in this episode: Madeline and LuAnn led a seminar on goal setting at the International Window Covering Expo in Tampa, FL, and discovered their ideas on goal setting are identical! 5 Day Sales Challenge (see 5 Day Sales Challenge Facebook Page) to help you learn the need for peer accountability, mindset and to give you concrete tools, that usually cost $3000.00 in our program, to help you tweak things in your business to make it more successful. It will also  make you a better salesperson. In addition, you will have a call to action each day. The 5 Day Sales Challenge will include Madeline making a live appearance in the group every day and will share ideas, inspiration, and to answer your questions. Madeline will do some episodes of Facebook Live leading up to the challenge and will let you know when she will appear in the group. Topics will include: Day 1: Master your Metrix Day 2: Confidence is King Day 3: Systems Make Sales Day 4: The Fortune is in the Follow-up There is Gold in your Nose! Discover your inner creativity in relation to sales. Learn the importance of getting a definite yes or no answer when selling. Utilize effective listening skills when listening to your clients’ needs. Learn when a client is really a client, not a potential client or lead.   Resources Mentioned in the Episode: mmmacrae.com for consulting and coaching Fasttrackmember.com for Madeline’s Bootcamp landing page 5 Day Sales Challenge on Facebook The 5 Levels of Leadership, by John C. Maxwell Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham Strengths-Based Leadership, by Tom Rath and Barry Conchie To get access to some of Madeleine’s goals training absolutely free go to Fast Track Sales Systems. Are you ready to harness the secrets of the best in the industry to create consistently amazing results in your business? this Power Talk Friday is Madeline MacRae. Madeline was LuAnn’s guest in episode 283, and returns for this episode.

Madeline is the CEO, founder and chief innovator for MM MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm. MM MacRae specializes in the development and growth of pros and companies specializing in the home professionals industry. She is such a high energy, driven person, and she shares a wealth of knowledge on this episode. If you’re ready to do what it takes to achieve freedom and long-term growth in your business, you will want to absorb Madeline MacRae’s information like a sponge! 

 

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • Madeline and LuAnn led a seminar on goal setting at the International Window Covering Expo in Tampa, FL, and discovered their ideas on goal setting are identical!
  • 5 Day Sales Challenge (see 5 Day Sales Challenge Facebook Page) to help you learn the need for peer accountability, mindset and to give you concrete tools, that usually cost $3000.00 in our program, to help you tweak things in your business to make it more successful. It will also  make you a better salesperson. In addition, you will have a call to action each day. The 5 Day Sales Challenge will include Madeline making a live appearance in the group every day and will share ideas, inspiration, and to answer your questions. Madeline will do some episodes of Facebook Live leading up to the challenge and will let you know when she will appear in the group. Topics will include:
  • Day 1: Master your Metrix
  • Day 2: Confidence is King
  • Day 3: Systems Make Sales
  • Day 4: The Fortune is in the Follow-up
  • There is Gold in your Nose!
  • Discover your inner creativity in relation to sales.
  • Learn the importance of getting a definite yes or no answer when selling.
  • Utilize effective listening skills when listening to your clients’ needs.
  • Learn when a client is really a client, not a potential client or lead.

 

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

mmmacrae.com for consulting and coaching

Fasttrackmember.com for Madeline’s Bootcamp landing page

5 Day Sales Challenge on Facebook

The 5 Levels of Leadership, by John C. Maxwell

Now Discover Your Strengths, by Donald O. Clifton and Marcus Buckingham

Strengths-Based Leadership, by Tom Rath and Barry Conchie

To get access to some of Madeleine’s goals training absolutely free go to Fast Track Sales Systems.

]]> 3320 no 314: Studio Thomas: Finding Clarity on the Brand and Culture of Her Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/314-studio-thomas-finding-clarity-on-the-brand-and-culture-of-her-interior-design-firm What does it look like to be so committed to the success of your business that failure simply CANNOT be an option? For some, there is a crutch to fall back on, but for others, the welfare of their family depends on the level of commitment—and there is no Plan B. Today’s guest is passionate about her design business and there is no doubt about her commitment to success and claiming her niche. Kristen Thomas is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas, a full-service interior design firm based in Denver. With a degree in interior design and a background in real estate and home building, Kristen has spent the past 20 years honing her ability to transform homes into spaces that truly enhance and elevate the lives of her clients. When you hear Kristen on the show today, you will understand how the term “elevating and enhancing the lives of clients” is a true goal for her—a true mission. She has given careful and thorough thought to knowing very clearly who her ideal client is, what her ideal project is, and what the Studio Thomas aesthetic is. It’s because of this self-discovery that she made a very bold move this past January, and I’ll let her explain exactly what transpired. What you’ll hear in this episode: The growth of Studio Thomas in just 5 years When failure is NOT an option, so you MUST make it work “I’m really concerned with infusing value into my clients’ homes.” The emotion behind the hard work and commitment Creating the culture where employees are empowered and valued Kristen’s goal: to have a company that people love to come and work for and where everyone’s voice is valued The “slow” hiring process in creating chemistry and culture on the team In January 2018---the complete overhaul because Kristen “didn’t want to be everything to everyone” Deciding who you are, finding your best value, and being comfortable in your philosophy Being the best at what you do and making the highest contribution, facing the fear of turning down the jobs that aren’t WHO you are “You have to run your business and not let it run you.” After acquiring 16,000 Instagram followers, Kristen erased it all and started over with intention at every step Revamping, rebranding, and narrowing the focus “Our favorite color is texture.” The story behind the K. Thom lifestyle brand Vetting the client—how it’s done Why clients are willing to trust Kristen and Studio Thomas Kristen’s husband’s role in Studio Thomas and how he helps the growing business The visions, systems, and processes that make the business work and grow as you take bold steps in claiming your niche Resources mentioned in the episode: Camp Chroma WCAANJ Kristen's Website: Studio Thomas Kristen's Instagram: Studio Thomas Kristen's Facebook: Studio Thomas Tue, 10 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara What does it look like to be so committed to the success of your business that failure simply CANNOT be an option? For some, there is a crutch to fall back on, but for others, the welfare of their family depends on the level of commitment—and there... What does it look like to be so committed to the success of your business that failure simply CANNOT be an option? For some, there is a crutch to fall back on, but for others, the welfare of their family depends on the level of commitment—and there is no Plan B. Today’s guest is passionate about her design business and there is no doubt about her commitment to success and claiming her niche. Kristen Thomas is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas, a full-service interior design firm based in Denver. With a degree in interior design and a background in real estate and home building, Kristen has spent the past 20 years honing her ability to transform homes into spaces that truly enhance and elevate the lives of her clients. When you hear Kristen on the show today, you will understand how the term “elevating and enhancing the lives of clients” is a true goal for her—a true mission. She has given careful and thorough thought to knowing very clearly who her ideal client is, what her ideal project is, and what the Studio Thomas aesthetic is. It’s because of this self-discovery that she made a very bold move this past January, and I’ll let her explain exactly what transpired. What you’ll hear in this episode: The growth of Studio Thomas in just 5 years When failure is NOT an option, so you MUST make it work “I’m really concerned with infusing value into my clients’ homes.” The emotion behind the hard work and commitment Creating the culture where employees are empowered and valued Kristen’s goal: to have a company that people love to come and work for and where everyone’s voice is valued The “slow” hiring process in creating chemistry and culture on the team In January 2018---the complete overhaul because Kristen “didn’t want to be everything to everyone” Deciding who you are, finding your best value, and being comfortable in your philosophy Being the best at what you do and making the highest contribution, facing the fear of turning down the jobs that aren’t WHO you are “You have to run your business and not let it run you.” After acquiring 16,000 Instagram followers, Kristen erased it all and started over with intention at every step Revamping, rebranding, and narrowing the focus “Our favorite color is texture.” The story behind the K. Thom lifestyle brand Vetting the client—how it’s done Why clients are willing to trust Kristen and Studio Thomas Kristen’s husband’s role in Studio Thomas and how he helps the growing business The visions, systems, and processes that make the business work and grow as you take bold steps in claiming your niche Resources mentioned in the episode: Camp Chroma WCAANJ Kristen's Website: Studio Thomas Kristen's Instagram: Studio Thomas Kristen's Facebook: Studio Thomas What does it look like to be so committed to the success of your business that failure simply CANNOT be an option? For some, there is a crutch to fall back on, but for others, the welfare of their family depends on the level of commitment—and there is no Plan B. Today’s guest is passionate about her design business and there is no doubt about her commitment to success and claiming her niche.

Kristen Thomas is the principal designer and owner of Studio Thomas, a full-service interior design firm based in Denver. With a degree in interior design and a background in real estate and home building, Kristen has spent the past 20 years honing her ability to transform homes into spaces that truly enhance and elevate the lives of her clients. When you hear Kristen on the show today, you will understand how the term “elevating and enhancing the lives of clients” is a true goal for her—a true mission. She has given careful and thorough thought to knowing very clearly who her ideal client is, what her ideal project is, and what the Studio Thomas aesthetic is. It’s because of this self-discovery that she made a very bold move this past January, and I’ll let her explain exactly what transpired.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • The growth of Studio Thomas in just 5 years
  • When failure is NOT an option, so you MUST make it work
  • “I’m really concerned with infusing value into my clients’ homes.”
  • The emotion behind the hard work and commitment
  • Creating the culture where employees are empowered and valued
  • Kristen’s goal: to have a company that people love to come and work for and where everyone’s voice is valued
  • The “slow” hiring process in creating chemistry and culture on the team
  • In January 2018---the complete overhaul because Kristen “didn’t want to be everything to everyone”
  • Deciding who you are, finding your best value, and being comfortable in your philosophy
  • Being the best at what you do and making the highest contribution, facing the fear of turning down the jobs that aren’t WHO you are
  • “You have to run your business and not let it run you.”
  • After acquiring 16,000 Instagram followers, Kristen erased it all and started over with intention at every step
  • Revamping, rebranding, and narrowing the focus
  • “Our favorite color is texture.”
  • The story behind the K. Thom lifestyle brand
  • Vetting the client—how it’s done
  • Why clients are willing to trust Kristen and Studio Thomas
  • Kristen’s husband’s role in Studio Thomas and how he helps the growing business
  • The visions, systems, and processes that make the business work and grow as you take bold steps in claiming your niche

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Camp Chroma

WCAANJ

Kristen's Website: Studio Thomas Kristen's Instagram: Studio Thomas Kristen's Facebook: Studio Thomas]]> 3689 no 313: Hilary Hendershott, Personal Finance Expert http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-313 Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Financial planning may seem boring, however, the results of it certainly are not! Today we're very happy to introduce you to Hilary Hendershott, a CFA (certified financial adviser) with a lot of street cred. Hilary, who has been nicknamed The Investor's Voice of Reason, is the founder of Hilary Hendershott Wealth Management, a leading financial advisory firm for women and her mission is to motivate women and their loved ones to be financially empowered through wealth building. On the show today Hilary explains why you really don't need to feel intimidated, as a woman, at the thought of consulting with a financial adviser, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you today about money mindset and the importance of proper financial management. Hilary is also the host of Profit Boss Radio, a weekly podcast where she and her guests offer inspiration, advice, and support for women in their financial journey. She's a TedX speaker, she's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, NBC, ABC, Fox, Daily Worth, Forbes, and Investopedia. Hilary was recognized in 2014 as a Top Forty Under Forty Entrepreneur in the Silicon Valley. She's had more than thirty television appearances and she is considered the go-to personal finance expert in the Silicon Valley for NBC. Listen in now to find out why it's really critical for you to understand your finances. Show highlights: The right time to bring in a professional financial adviser. The importance of saving money. Why it really is well worth spending the money on getting some professional financial advice. Why Hilary sees wealth building as the last female frontier. Why you don't actually have a business until you're paying yourself a CEO's salary. About Hilary's course Money Blueprint For Business Owners. Being well compensated for the liability of running a business. Some financial facts that everyone should know. Not having to feel intimidated by your financial adviser. Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater when dealing with a financial adviser. The functions of a fiduciary. Why Hilary avoids using 'Wall Street speak'. Hilary explains the way that she does her business. Understanding the type of business that you're in. The difference between a lifestyle business and a sellable business. Smart ways to save on taxes by forcing yourself to save. Simple tweaks to help you to build a strong and profitable business. Links: Hilary's website: www.hilaryhendershott.com Other episodes mentioned in today's show: Danielle Liss #171 Jody Padar #229 Fri, 06 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Financial planning may seem boring, however, the results of it certainly are not! Today we're very happy to introduce you to Hilary Hendershott, a CFA (certified financial adviser) with a lot of street cred.... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Financial planning may seem boring, however, the results of it certainly are not! Today we're very happy to introduce you to Hilary Hendershott, a CFA (certified financial adviser) with a lot of street cred. Hilary, who has been nicknamed The Investor's Voice of Reason, is the founder of Hilary Hendershott Wealth Management, a leading financial advisory firm for women and her mission is to motivate women and their loved ones to be financially empowered through wealth building. On the show today Hilary explains why you really don't need to feel intimidated, as a woman, at the thought of consulting with a financial adviser, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you today about money mindset and the importance of proper financial management. Hilary is also the host of Profit Boss Radio, a weekly podcast where she and her guests offer inspiration, advice, and support for women in their financial journey. She's a TedX speaker, she's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, NBC, ABC, Fox, Daily Worth, Forbes, and Investopedia. Hilary was recognized in 2014 as a Top Forty Under Forty Entrepreneur in the Silicon Valley. She's had more than thirty television appearances and she is considered the go-to personal finance expert in the Silicon Valley for NBC. Listen in now to find out why it's really critical for you to understand your finances. Show highlights: The right time to bring in a professional financial adviser. The importance of saving money. Why it really is well worth spending the money on getting some professional financial advice. Why Hilary sees wealth building as the last female frontier. Why you don't actually have a business until you're paying yourself a CEO's salary. About Hilary's course Money Blueprint For Business Owners. Being well compensated for the liability of running a business. Some financial facts that everyone should know. Not having to feel intimidated by your financial adviser. Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater when dealing with a financial adviser. The functions of a fiduciary. Why Hilary avoids using 'Wall Street speak'. Hilary explains the way that she does her business. Understanding the type of business that you're in. The difference between a lifestyle business and a sellable business. Smart ways to save on taxes by forcing yourself to save. Simple tweaks to help you to build a strong and profitable business. Links: Hilary's website: www.hilaryhendershott.com Other episodes mentioned in today's show: Danielle Liss #171 Jody Padar #229 Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Financial planning may seem boring, however, the results of it certainly are not! Today we're very happy to introduce you to Hilary Hendershott, a CFA (certified financial adviser) with a lot of street cred. Hilary, who has been nicknamed The Investor's Voice of Reason, is the founder of Hilary Hendershott Wealth Management, a leading financial advisory firm for women and her mission is to motivate women and their loved ones to be financially empowered through wealth building. On the show today Hilary explains why you really don't need to feel intimidated, as a woman, at the thought of consulting with a financial adviser, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you today about money mindset and the importance of proper financial management.

Hilary is also the host of Profit Boss Radio, a weekly podcast where she and her guests offer inspiration, advice, and support for women in their financial journey. She's a TedX speaker, she's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, NBC, ABC, Fox, Daily Worth, Forbes, and Investopedia. Hilary was recognized in 2014 as a Top Forty Under Forty Entrepreneur in the Silicon Valley. She's had more than thirty television appearances and she is considered the go-to personal finance expert in the Silicon Valley for NBC. Listen in now to find out why it's really critical for you to understand your finances.

Show highlights:

  • The right time to bring in a professional financial adviser.
  • The importance of saving money.
  • Why it really is well worth spending the money on getting some professional financial advice.
  • Why Hilary sees wealth building as the last female frontier.
  • Why you don't actually have a business until you're paying yourself a CEO's salary.
  • About Hilary's course Money Blueprint For Business Owners.
  • Being well compensated for the liability of running a business.
  • Some financial facts that everyone should know.
  • Not having to feel intimidated by your financial adviser.
  • Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater when dealing with a financial adviser.
  • The functions of a fiduciary.
  • Why Hilary avoids using 'Wall Street speak'.
  • Hilary explains the way that she does her business.
  • Understanding the type of business that you're in.
  • The difference between a lifestyle business and a sellable business.
  • Smart ways to save on taxes by forcing yourself to save.
  • Simple tweaks to help you to build a strong and profitable business.

Links:

Hilary's website: www.hilaryhendershott.com

Other episodes mentioned in today's show:

Danielle Liss #171

Jody Padar #229

]]> 3102 no 312: Design Biz Live: Best Practices for Profitability http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/312-design-biz-live-best-practices-for-profitability I recently received an e-mail from Colleen from Colleen Knowles Interiors in Mercer Island, WA. Colleen says she is in the process of getting her back of the house systems more organized, and requests that we do a show on purchasing. So, on today’s show, Judith, Corey and I will address all the winding trails you may find yourself on when dealing with all the many facets of purchasing. For many designers just starting out in the industry, purchasing and pricing can sometimes be a volatile topic. Industry norms along with the best practicing of purchasing can overwhelm you if you don’t have good systems in place.  Show Highlights: •    Corey explains three different models for purchasing and pricing. •    Learn some of the pitfalls of the kickback model.  •    Steering away from legal problems. •    A designer can act as a sales consultant..  •    A professional approach to pricing  •    Project minimum, flat fee and hourly pricing •    Collecting retainer and consultation fees •    How to incorporate pricing for online vendors •    Judith discusses managing purchased items onsite. •    Avoid discussing net purchase pricing with clients.  *    The better you handle the contract and front end, the smoother the back end will be. •    LuAnn and Judith say there is no substitute for personal touches.   Resources: This episode is available on A Well-Designed Business YouTube Channel.  Corey Klassen Designs  Judith Neary, Roadside Attractions Design Studio   Tue, 03 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I recently received an e-mail from Colleen from Colleen Knowles Interiors in Mercer Island, WA. Colleen says she is in the process of getting her back of the house systems more organized, and requests that we do a show on purchasing. So, on today’s... I recently received an e-mail from Colleen from Colleen Knowles Interiors in Mercer Island, WA. Colleen says she is in the process of getting her back of the house systems more organized, and requests that we do a show on purchasing. So, on today’s show, Judith, Corey and I will address all the winding trails you may find yourself on when dealing with all the many facets of purchasing. For many designers just starting out in the industry, purchasing and pricing can sometimes be a volatile topic. Industry norms along with the best practicing of purchasing can overwhelm you if you don’t have good systems in place.  Show Highlights: •    Corey explains three different models for purchasing and pricing. •    Learn some of the pitfalls of the kickback model.  •    Steering away from legal problems. •    A designer can act as a sales consultant..  •    A professional approach to pricing  •    Project minimum, flat fee and hourly pricing •    Collecting retainer and consultation fees •    How to incorporate pricing for online vendors •    Judith discusses managing purchased items onsite. •    Avoid discussing net purchase pricing with clients.  *    The better you handle the contract and front end, the smoother the back end will be. •    LuAnn and Judith say there is no substitute for personal touches.   Resources: This episode is available on A Well-Designed Business YouTube Channel.  Corey Klassen Designs  Judith Neary, Roadside Attractions Design Studio   I recently received an e-mail from Colleen from Colleen Knowles Interiors in Mercer Island, WA. Colleen says she is in the process of getting her back of the house systems more organized, and requests that we do a show on purchasing. So, on today’s show, Judith, Corey and I will address all the winding trails you may find yourself on when dealing with all the many facets of purchasing.

For many designers just starting out in the industry, purchasing and pricing can sometimes be a volatile topic. Industry norms along with the best practicing of purchasing can overwhelm you if you don’t have good systems in place. 

Show Highlights:

•    Corey explains three different models for purchasing and pricing.

•    Learn some of the pitfalls of the kickback model. 

•    Steering away from legal problems.

•    A designer can act as a sales consultant.. 

•    A professional approach to pricing 

•    Project minimum, flat fee and hourly pricing

•    Collecting retainer and consultation fees

•    How to incorporate pricing for online vendors

•    Judith discusses managing purchased items onsite.

•    Avoid discussing net purchase pricing with clients. 

*    The better you handle the contract and front end, the smoother the back end will be.

•    LuAnn and Judith say there is no substitute for personal touches.

 

Resources:

This episode is available on A Well-Designed Business YouTube Channel.

 Corey Klassen Designs

 Judith Neary, Roadside Attractions Design Studio

 

]]> 4230 no 311: Jason Byrne -The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business® http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/311-jason-byrne-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business Welcome! Jason Byrne of Jason Byrne Design joins us today for the second airing of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- the listener version. Jason has been a really kind supporter of the show over the last few months and he's been keeping in touch regularly via email. One time he sent an email with a list of the things that he's done in his business based on what he learned from listening to this podcast and he has sent others, with the specifics about the shows that he really liked and what he gained from listening to them. He particularly enjoyed the solo show about vendors and he sent LuAnn the most amazing, heartfelt email the next day to thank her for the show and to tell her how well it resonated with him! Listen in today to find out more. On the show today Jason starts out discussing his mission statement- Delivering excellence through communication and design- and what it really means to him, because sometimes mission statements can be quite a stumbling block for new designers. Jason, who used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School, also shares some of his expertise about the best kind of technology to use for either commercial or residential design and he explains some of the ways that he has made use of what he's learned from the podcast. Listen in to find out what Jason has to share today! Show highlights: Jason talks about his mission statement- how he arrived at it and what it means to him. He explains why he is so focused on clear communication. Why it's so important to Jason that less-than-good news really needs to be delivered in person. Jason explains how this show helped him to develop his 'schedule of fees' and his 'job run sheet' documents. Jason discussed some of the specifics around the documents that he has developed. How Jason ensures that he and his client are really on the same page when discussing design. A document that Jason developed and little exercise he designed to help his clients to understand where they are in the process. The importance of maintaining a really clear connection with your client. How the idea of a weekly client email has really helped Jason. (Laura Umanksy #64) The various design technologies that Jason would recommend for both commercial and residential designers. (He used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School.) How to get up and running with Autocad. About some of the more advanced design tech products. Link: Jason's website: www.jasonbyrnedesign.com His website and social: Jason Byrne Design Facebook: Jason Byrne Design Instagram: Jason Byrne Design Pinterest: Jason Byrne Design - Nail Salon Fri, 30 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Jason Byrne of Jason Byrne Design joins us today for the second airing of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- the listener version. Jason has been a really kind supporter of the show over the last few months and he's been... Welcome! Jason Byrne of Jason Byrne Design joins us today for the second airing of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- the listener version. Jason has been a really kind supporter of the show over the last few months and he's been keeping in touch regularly via email. One time he sent an email with a list of the things that he's done in his business based on what he learned from listening to this podcast and he has sent others, with the specifics about the shows that he really liked and what he gained from listening to them. He particularly enjoyed the solo show about vendors and he sent LuAnn the most amazing, heartfelt email the next day to thank her for the show and to tell her how well it resonated with him! Listen in today to find out more. On the show today Jason starts out discussing his mission statement- Delivering excellence through communication and design- and what it really means to him, because sometimes mission statements can be quite a stumbling block for new designers. Jason, who used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School, also shares some of his expertise about the best kind of technology to use for either commercial or residential design and he explains some of the ways that he has made use of what he's learned from the podcast. Listen in to find out what Jason has to share today! Show highlights: Jason talks about his mission statement- how he arrived at it and what it means to him. He explains why he is so focused on clear communication. Why it's so important to Jason that less-than-good news really needs to be delivered in person. Jason explains how this show helped him to develop his 'schedule of fees' and his 'job run sheet' documents. Jason discussed some of the specifics around the documents that he has developed. How Jason ensures that he and his client are really on the same page when discussing design. A document that Jason developed and little exercise he designed to help his clients to understand where they are in the process. The importance of maintaining a really clear connection with your client. How the idea of a weekly client email has really helped Jason. (Laura Umanksy #64) The various design technologies that Jason would recommend for both commercial and residential designers. (He used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School.) How to get up and running with Autocad. About some of the more advanced design tech products. Link: Jason's website: www.jasonbyrnedesign.com His website and social: Jason Byrne Design Facebook: Jason Byrne Design Instagram: Jason Byrne Design Pinterest: Jason Byrne Design - Nail Salon Welcome! Jason Byrne of Jason Byrne Design joins us today for the second airing of The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- the listener version. Jason has been a really kind supporter of the show over the last few months and he's been keeping in touch regularly via email. One time he sent an email with a list of the things that he's done in his business based on what he learned from listening to this podcast and he has sent others, with the specifics about the shows that he really liked and what he gained from listening to them. He particularly enjoyed the solo show about vendors and he sent LuAnn the most amazing, heartfelt email the next day to thank her for the show and to tell her how well it resonated with him! Listen in today to find out more.

On the show today Jason starts out discussing his mission statement- Delivering excellence through communication and design- and what it really means to him, because sometimes mission statements can be quite a stumbling block for new designers. Jason, who used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School, also shares some of his expertise about the best kind of technology to use for either commercial or residential design and he explains some of the ways that he has made use of what he's learned from the podcast. Listen in to find out what Jason has to share today!

Show highlights:

  • Jason talks about his mission statement- how he arrived at it and what it means to him.
  • He explains why he is so focused on clear communication.
  • Why it's so important to Jason that less-than-good news really needs to be delivered in person.
  • Jason explains how this show helped him to develop his 'schedule of fees' and his 'job run sheet' documents.
  • Jason discussed some of the specifics around the documents that he has developed.
  • How Jason ensures that he and his client are really on the same page when discussing design.
  • A document that Jason developed and little exercise he designed to help his clients to understand where they are in the process.
  • The importance of maintaining a really clear connection with your client.
  • How the idea of a weekly client email has really helped Jason. (Laura Umanksy #64)
  • The various design technologies that Jason would recommend for both commercial and residential designers. (He used to teach Design Technology at Sydney Design School.)
  • How to get up and running with Autocad.
  • About some of the more advanced design tech products.

Link:

Jason's website: www.jasonbyrnedesign.com

His website and social: Jason Byrne Design Facebook: Jason Byrne Design Instagram: Jason Byrne Design Pinterest: Jason Byrne Design - Nail Salon]]> 4212 no 310: Pulp Design Studios® : How To Attract a Licensing Deal http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/310-pulp-design-studios-how-to-attract-a-licensing-deal Welcome to the show! We are really delighted today to have Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry back again! (Episode #176) These brilliant ladies run a truly amazing design firm, Pulp Design, both in Seattle and in Dallas and on the show today they have some really fun news to share with you! They are about to realize a dream that they've had since starting their business eleven years ago. They are super-excited to finally be launching a licensed fabric collection with S Harris! Listen in now to get the latest! The work of Pulp Design has been recognized and published by  Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Both Beth and Carolina have been recognized as rising stars in interior design by Fashion Group International and they have both won awards for their fabulous work. Listen in to find out what this dynamic duo has to share with you today. Show highlights: All about the launch of their licensed fabric collection. As designers, Beth and Carolina have always wanted to have a product of their own. How they were approached by the creative director of S Harris. Why S Harris wanted to partner with Carolina and Beth. Creating a quality brand. The way that these two dynamic ladies like to think strategically. What their fabric line is like. Where the inspiration for the fabric designs came from. The whole process of creating the patterns. The inadvertent creation of the design for their fabric collections. The awesome experience of being accepted to collaborate with S Harris. Looking for the right kind of company to align with, as a small firm. Red flags to look out for when offered an opportunity to collaborate. Beth and Carolina's cautious approach to growing their business. The great support that they get from their team. Successfully expressing their brand through all the employees in their company. Taking the time to reflect on the values of your company- before working with anyone. Carolina and Beth's principal of quality completion. Creating success by getting to really know yourself. Get your invitation to their VIP preview event at High Point. (Details on their website pulpdesignstudios.com)  Links: Website and SM: Pulp Design Studios Facebook: Pulp Design Studios Twitter: Pulp Design Studios Instagram: Pulp Designs Studios Pinterest: Pulp Design Studios Tue, 27 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to the show! We are really delighted today to have Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry back again! (Episode #176) These brilliant ladies run a truly amazing design firm, Pulp Design, both in Seattle and in Dallas and on the show today they have... Welcome to the show! We are really delighted today to have Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry back again! (Episode #176) These brilliant ladies run a truly amazing design firm, Pulp Design, both in Seattle and in Dallas and on the show today they have some really fun news to share with you! They are about to realize a dream that they've had since starting their business eleven years ago. They are super-excited to finally be launching a licensed fabric collection with S Harris! Listen in now to get the latest! The work of Pulp Design has been recognized and published by  Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Both Beth and Carolina have been recognized as rising stars in interior design by Fashion Group International and they have both won awards for their fabulous work. Listen in to find out what this dynamic duo has to share with you today. Show highlights: All about the launch of their licensed fabric collection. As designers, Beth and Carolina have always wanted to have a product of their own. How they were approached by the creative director of S Harris. Why S Harris wanted to partner with Carolina and Beth. Creating a quality brand. The way that these two dynamic ladies like to think strategically. What their fabric line is like. Where the inspiration for the fabric designs came from. The whole process of creating the patterns. The inadvertent creation of the design for their fabric collections. The awesome experience of being accepted to collaborate with S Harris. Looking for the right kind of company to align with, as a small firm. Red flags to look out for when offered an opportunity to collaborate. Beth and Carolina's cautious approach to growing their business. The great support that they get from their team. Successfully expressing their brand through all the employees in their company. Taking the time to reflect on the values of your company- before working with anyone. Carolina and Beth's principal of quality completion. Creating success by getting to really know yourself. Get your invitation to their VIP preview event at High Point. (Details on their website pulpdesignstudios.com)  Links: Website and SM: Pulp Design Studios Facebook: Pulp Design Studios Twitter: Pulp Design Studios Instagram: Pulp Designs Studios Pinterest: Pulp Design Studios Welcome to the show! We are really delighted today to have Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry back again! (Episode #176) These brilliant ladies run a truly amazing design firm, Pulp Design, both in Seattle and in Dallas and on the show today they have some really fun news to share with you! They are about to realize a dream that they've had since starting their business eleven years ago. They are super-excited to finally be launching a licensed fabric collection with S Harris! Listen in now to get the latest!

The work of Pulp Design has been recognized and published by  Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Both Beth and Carolina have been recognized as rising stars in interior design by Fashion Group International and they have both won awards for their fabulous work. Listen in to find out what this dynamic duo has to share with you today.

Show highlights:

  • All about the launch of their licensed fabric collection.
  • As designers, Beth and Carolina have always wanted to have a product of their own.
  • How they were approached by the creative director of S Harris.
  • Why S Harris wanted to partner with Carolina and Beth.
  • Creating a quality brand.
  • The way that these two dynamic ladies like to think strategically.
  • What their fabric line is like.
  • Where the inspiration for the fabric designs came from.
  • The whole process of creating the patterns.
  • The inadvertent creation of the design for their fabric collections.
  • The awesome experience of being accepted to collaborate with S Harris.
  • Looking for the right kind of company to align with, as a small firm.
  • Red flags to look out for when offered an opportunity to collaborate.
  • Beth and Carolina's cautious approach to growing their business.
  • The great support that they get from their team.
  • Successfully expressing their brand through all the employees in their company.
  • Taking the time to reflect on the values of your company- before working with anyone.
  • Carolina and Beth's principal of quality completion.
  • Creating success by getting to really know yourself.
  • Get your invitation to their VIP preview event at High Point. (Details on their website pulpdesignstudios.com)

 Links:

Website and SM: Pulp Design Studios Facebook: Pulp Design Studios Twitter: Pulp Design Studios Instagram: Pulp Designs Studios Pinterest: Pulp Design Studios]]> 3854 no 309: Camp Chroma, Color Training for Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/309-camp-chroma-color-training-for-interior-designers As Interior Designers, we spend a lot of our time thinking about and choosing color. Have you ever stopped to wonder how that color is actually made? No, we are not talking about mixing pigments at the paint store. Today, I want to dive into the amazing topic of color data. What are the measurable ways that one color is distinct from another? Is there a quantity we can use to describe why some colors work better together than others? Here to help you unravel your Color DNA is Lori Sawaya, the podcast’s newest sponsor, and my amazing guest this week. Lori got her start in graphic design, and as color printing became more readily available, she started to become obsessed with the color management aspects of her career. This obsession turned into several years of dedicated training and study, which led Lori to a whole new understanding of color and how we measure it. From there, Lori developed a course that would teach other designers how to not just measure color data but use it within their design process. Lori's business, Camp Chroma, is all about giving you the foundational tools you need to leverage the power of color data. Other industries rely heavily on the values and measurements surrounding color, so why not Interior Design? Listen to this week’s episode to learn all about how color functions, and how you can begin your journey with Camp Chroma. It’s a whole new world out there, and the future of color looking bright! I am delighted about the partnership between A Well Designed Business and Camp Chroma, and I know you will be too. More in this episode: Lori tells us all about why she loves color so much. Learn all about how color gets made and why Camp Chroma is so powerful! The tools and that you need to analyze color. Now that you have data on color, you need to learn how to utilize it. The actual surfaces that you can use to measure color DNA. Discover the possibilities of the hue angle. We are busting the super big urban legends about color! Take the time to play with your data. We have actually quantified how humans perceive color. Dive into Lori’s design process, armed with the data values. What it means for Lori to be an Architectural Color Design Expert. Camp Chroma starts with the foundation and builds your skills from the ground up. Resources: This episode is sponsored by: Camp Chroma Online Social Media: Instagram: The Land of Color Facebook: Fun Colors Twitter Linkedin: Lori Sawaya Join in Online Luann Nigara Fri, 23 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara As Interior Designers, we spend a lot of our time thinking about and choosing color. Have you ever stopped to wonder how that color is actually made? No, we are not talking about mixing pigments at the paint store. Today, I want to dive into the... As Interior Designers, we spend a lot of our time thinking about and choosing color. Have you ever stopped to wonder how that color is actually made? No, we are not talking about mixing pigments at the paint store. Today, I want to dive into the amazing topic of color data. What are the measurable ways that one color is distinct from another? Is there a quantity we can use to describe why some colors work better together than others? Here to help you unravel your Color DNA is Lori Sawaya, the podcast’s newest sponsor, and my amazing guest this week. Lori got her start in graphic design, and as color printing became more readily available, she started to become obsessed with the color management aspects of her career. This obsession turned into several years of dedicated training and study, which led Lori to a whole new understanding of color and how we measure it. From there, Lori developed a course that would teach other designers how to not just measure color data but use it within their design process. Lori's business, Camp Chroma, is all about giving you the foundational tools you need to leverage the power of color data. Other industries rely heavily on the values and measurements surrounding color, so why not Interior Design? Listen to this week’s episode to learn all about how color functions, and how you can begin your journey with Camp Chroma. It’s a whole new world out there, and the future of color looking bright! I am delighted about the partnership between A Well Designed Business and Camp Chroma, and I know you will be too. More in this episode: Lori tells us all about why she loves color so much. Learn all about how color gets made and why Camp Chroma is so powerful! The tools and that you need to analyze color. Now that you have data on color, you need to learn how to utilize it. The actual surfaces that you can use to measure color DNA. Discover the possibilities of the hue angle. We are busting the super big urban legends about color! Take the time to play with your data. We have actually quantified how humans perceive color. Dive into Lori’s design process, armed with the data values. What it means for Lori to be an Architectural Color Design Expert. Camp Chroma starts with the foundation and builds your skills from the ground up. Resources: This episode is sponsored by: Camp Chroma Online Social Media: Instagram: The Land of Color Facebook: Fun Colors Twitter Linkedin: Lori Sawaya Join in Online Luann Nigara As Interior Designers, we spend a lot of our time thinking about and choosing color. Have you ever stopped to wonder how that color is actually made? No, we are not talking about mixing pigments at the paint store. Today, I want to dive into the amazing topic of color data. What are the measurable ways that one color is distinct from another? Is there a quantity we can use to describe why some colors work better together than others? Here to help you unravel your Color DNA is Lori Sawaya, the podcast’s newest sponsor, and my amazing guest this week.

Lori got her start in graphic design, and as color printing became more readily available, she started to become obsessed with the color management aspects of her career. This obsession turned into several years of dedicated training and study, which led Lori to a whole new understanding of color and how we measure it. From there, Lori developed a course that would teach other designers how to not just measure color data but use it within their design process.

Lori's business, Camp Chroma, is all about giving you the foundational tools you need to leverage the power of color data. Other industries rely heavily on the values and measurements surrounding color, so why not Interior Design? Listen to this week’s episode to learn all about how color functions, and how you can begin your journey with Camp Chroma. It’s a whole new world out there, and the future of color looking bright! I am delighted about the partnership between A Well Designed Business and Camp Chroma, and I know you will be too.

More in this episode:

  • Lori tells us all about why she loves color so much.
  • Learn all about how color gets made and why Camp Chroma is so powerful!
  • The tools and that you need to analyze color.
  • Now that you have data on color, you need to learn how to utilize it.
  • The actual surfaces that you can use to measure color DNA.
  • Discover the possibilities of the hue angle.
  • We are busting the super big urban legends about color!
  • Take the time to play with your data.
  • We have actually quantified how humans perceive color.
  • Dive into Lori’s design process, armed with the data values.
  • What it means for Lori to be an Architectural Color Design Expert.
  • Camp Chroma starts with the foundation and builds your skills from the ground up.

Resources:

This episode is sponsored by:


Camp Chroma Online

Social Media:

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]]> 4020 no 308: Lori Weitzner - The "Big Moments" Create a Successful Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/308-lori-weitzner-the-big-moments-create-a-successful-interior-design-business Welcome to today's episode! We really have a big treat in store for you today- we have Lori Weitzner as our guest and if you're not yet familiar with her, she's the principal and creative director of Lori Weitzner Design Inc. Lori has a really unique perspective on the use and significance of color in design and she discusses this today on the show. She also talks about the choices that she's made in her business and she shares many of the big moments that have shaped her career. Lori's latest endeavor is her book Ode To Color- The Ten Essential Palettes for Living and Design and now she's also developed The Ode To Color Analysis- a practical guide on how to find one's color world, as a compliment to the book. Listen in to find out about the windy road and some of the pivotal moments that this super successful lady has taken to get to where she is today. Lori's career as a designer spans thirty years and she's known internationally for her contribution to the world of textiles and wall coverings under that brand Weitzner. The  Weitzner brand has been sold through highly esteemed houses, like Sahco, Larson, and Pollack. You may be familiar with Lori because of her trims, which are available through Samuel and Sons, or her rug designs for West Elm, or possibly even through her paper designs for Papyrus. Listen in now to find out more. Show Highlights: A special moment that really stands out for Lori, that set her on her particular career path. What a textile designer actually does. The serendipitous story of what happened when a very young Lori decided to risk everything and go off to a trade show in Lyon France. About Lori's big break with Jack Larson. The secret to how Lori, at the tender age of twenty-two, managed to sell forty-eight of her designs in one weekend, at a trade fair in France. How Lori's confidence has always worked for her. Why you should go for what you really want- not just what you think is possible. Lori shares about her next level of achievement after Jack Larson, with Sahco. How Lori started out with her own business- with a $100 000 loan from the bank. Getting the balance right between Lori's creative side and her business side. How Lori instinctively knew what she was meant to be doing with her career. How Lori's design for her Newsworthy wallpaper was developed. Lori discusses her new book Ode To Color and how it came about. How Lori discovered that her first language was actually color! All about Lori's Color Analysis Test. Resources: Lori's Website: Lori Weitzner To take Lori's test with her Ode To Color Analysis, or to buy her book go to Ode To Color Lori's panel discussion on 3/23/18 at the Architectural Design show in NYC LuAnn's book: The Making of A Well-Designed Business® Tue, 20 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We really have a big treat in store for you today- we have Lori Weitzner as our guest and if you're not yet familiar with her, she's the principal and creative director of Lori Weitzner Design Inc. Lori has a really unique... Welcome to today's episode! We really have a big treat in store for you today- we have Lori Weitzner as our guest and if you're not yet familiar with her, she's the principal and creative director of Lori Weitzner Design Inc. Lori has a really unique perspective on the use and significance of color in design and she discusses this today on the show. She also talks about the choices that she's made in her business and she shares many of the big moments that have shaped her career. Lori's latest endeavor is her book Ode To Color- The Ten Essential Palettes for Living and Design and now she's also developed The Ode To Color Analysis- a practical guide on how to find one's color world, as a compliment to the book. Listen in to find out about the windy road and some of the pivotal moments that this super successful lady has taken to get to where she is today. Lori's career as a designer spans thirty years and she's known internationally for her contribution to the world of textiles and wall coverings under that brand Weitzner. The  Weitzner brand has been sold through highly esteemed houses, like Sahco, Larson, and Pollack. You may be familiar with Lori because of her trims, which are available through Samuel and Sons, or her rug designs for West Elm, or possibly even through her paper designs for Papyrus. Listen in now to find out more. Show Highlights: A special moment that really stands out for Lori, that set her on her particular career path. What a textile designer actually does. The serendipitous story of what happened when a very young Lori decided to risk everything and go off to a trade show in Lyon France. About Lori's big break with Jack Larson. The secret to how Lori, at the tender age of twenty-two, managed to sell forty-eight of her designs in one weekend, at a trade fair in France. How Lori's confidence has always worked for her. Why you should go for what you really want- not just what you think is possible. Lori shares about her next level of achievement after Jack Larson, with Sahco. How Lori started out with her own business- with a $100 000 loan from the bank. Getting the balance right between Lori's creative side and her business side. How Lori instinctively knew what she was meant to be doing with her career. How Lori's design for her Newsworthy wallpaper was developed. Lori discusses her new book Ode To Color and how it came about. How Lori discovered that her first language was actually color! All about Lori's Color Analysis Test. Resources: Lori's Website: Lori Weitzner To take Lori's test with her Ode To Color Analysis, or to buy her book go to Ode To Color Lori's panel discussion on 3/23/18 at the Architectural Design show in NYC LuAnn's book: The Making of A Well-Designed Business® Welcome to today's episode! We really have a big treat in store for you today- we have Lori Weitzner as our guest and if you're not yet familiar with her, she's the principal and creative director of Lori Weitzner Design Inc. Lori has a really unique perspective on the use and significance of color in design and she discusses this today on the show. She also talks about the choices that she's made in her business and she shares many of the big moments that have shaped her career.

Lori's latest endeavor is her book Ode To Color- The Ten Essential Palettes for Living and Design and now she's also developed The Ode To Color Analysis- a practical guide on how to find one's color world, as a compliment to the book. Listen in to find out about the windy road and some of the pivotal moments that this super successful lady has taken to get to where she is today.

Lori's career as a designer spans thirty years and she's known internationally for her contribution to the world of textiles and wall coverings under that brand Weitzner. The  Weitzner brand has been sold through highly esteemed houses, like Sahco, Larson, and Pollack. You may be familiar with Lori because of her trims, which are available through Samuel and Sons, or her rug designs for West Elm, or possibly even through her paper designs for Papyrus. Listen in now to find out more.

Show Highlights:

  • A special moment that really stands out for Lori, that set her on her particular career path.
  • What a textile designer actually does.
  • The serendipitous story of what happened when a very young Lori decided to risk everything and go off to a trade show in Lyon France.
  • About Lori's big break with Jack Larson.
  • The secret to how Lori, at the tender age of twenty-two, managed to sell forty-eight of her designs in one weekend, at a trade fair in France.
  • How Lori's confidence has always worked for her.
  • Why you should go for what you really want- not just what you think is possible.
  • Lori shares about her next level of achievement after Jack Larson, with Sahco.
  • How Lori started out with her own business- with a $100 000 loan from the bank.
  • Getting the balance right between Lori's creative side and her business side.
  • How Lori instinctively knew what she was meant to be doing with her career.
  • How Lori's design for her Newsworthy wallpaper was developed.
  • Lori discusses her new book Ode To Color and how it came about.
  • How Lori discovered that her first language was actually color!
  • All about Lori's Color Analysis Test.

Resources:

Lori's Website: Lori Weitzner

To take Lori's test with her Ode To Color Analysis, or to buy her book go to Ode To Color

Lori's panel discussion on 3/23/18 at the Architectural Design show in NYC

LuAnn's book: The Making of A Well-Designed Business®

]]> 4074 no PTF Carol Cox: How To Be a Great Panelist at an Interior Design Event http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/ptf-carol-cox-how-to-be-a-great-panelist-at-an-interior-design-event Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Carol Cox with us today and she's the founder of Speaking Your Brand. She's also LuAnn's speaking coach and LuAnn really adores her- especially for her skillful way of assisting her to pull the right content together, in order to craft a captivating and cohesive speech. On the show today Carol explains what you really need to be thinking about, and the best tactics to use if you're not yet that well-known and you're going to be taking part a panel discussion. Listen in to find out about ways to really connect with an audience. Speaking Your Brand helps high-performing and purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals to shape their businesses and personal brands, share their message, and become recognized as influencers in their field. Carol is a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, branding, and leadership for women. She's also a podcaster and a TEDx speaker. Carol teaches classes in business and marketing at a university and she serves as a political analyst on TV news during election seasons. She is based in Orlando Florida and she works with her clients both locally and virtually around the world. Listen in today to find out what Carol has to share about public speaking and really engaging with your audience.    Show Highlights:   How to be a really great panelist. What a moderator could do to keep the conversation flowing if someone is dominating a panel discussion. What you can do if you're a panelist and someone on the panel is really monopolizing the conversation. Setting the ground rules ahead of time. What you need to prepare beforehand if you're going to be a panelist. Using emotion to create a really engaging story. Giving careful thought to the meaningful content that you're going to be talking about. Tips for being gracious and complimenting others authentically when you're in a panel discussion.  Ways that you can bond with the other panelists, before the discussion. Taking the opportunity to network with the other panelists. Why you should give the moderator your own printed introduction before the discussion. Creating the very best pitch for yourself. Checking the room out beforehand, prior to the panel discussion. Ways to alleviate any nervousness you may feel before the discussion. Ways of getting the audience to relate to you. Remember that the more you do it, the better you will get.   To check out the Speaking Your Brand Podcast go to www.speakingyourbrand.com/podcast   To get the PDF for this show go to www.luannnigara.com/episode307       Fri, 16 Mar 2018 14:07:44 -0000 PTF Carol Cox: How To Be a Great Panelist at an Interior Design Event full 307 LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Carol Cox with us today and she's the founder of Speaking Your Brand. She's also LuAnn's speaking coach and LuAnn really adores her- especially for her skillful way of assisting her to pull the... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Carol Cox with us today and she's the founder of Speaking Your Brand. She's also LuAnn's speaking coach and LuAnn really adores her- especially for her skillful way of assisting her to pull the right content together, in order to craft a captivating and cohesive speech. On the show today Carol explains what you really need to be thinking about, and the best tactics to use if you're not yet that well-known and you're going to be taking part a panel discussion. Listen in to find out about ways to really connect with an audience. Speaking Your Brand helps high-performing and purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals to shape their businesses and personal brands, share their message, and become recognized as influencers in their field. Carol is a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, branding, and leadership for women. She's also a podcaster and a TEDx speaker. Carol teaches classes in business and marketing at a university and she serves as a political analyst on TV news during election seasons. She is based in Orlando Florida and she works with her clients both locally and virtually around the world. Listen in today to find out what Carol has to share about public speaking and really engaging with your audience.    Show Highlights:   How to be a really great panelist. What a moderator could do to keep the conversation flowing if someone is dominating a panel discussion. What you can do if you're a panelist and someone on the panel is really monopolizing the conversation. Setting the ground rules ahead of time. What you need to prepare beforehand if you're going to be a panelist. Using emotion to create a really engaging story. Giving careful thought to the meaningful content that you're going to be talking about. Tips for being gracious and complimenting others authentically when you're in a panel discussion.  Ways that you can bond with the other panelists, before the discussion. Taking the opportunity to network with the other panelists. Why you should give the moderator your own printed introduction before the discussion. Creating the very best pitch for yourself. Checking the room out beforehand, prior to the panel discussion. Ways to alleviate any nervousness you may feel before the discussion. Ways of getting the audience to relate to you. Remember that the more you do it, the better you will get.   To check out the Speaking Your Brand Podcast go to www.speakingyourbrand.com/podcast   To get the PDF for this show go to www.luannnigara.com/episode307       Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Carol Cox with us today and she's the founder of Speaking Your Brand. She's also LuAnn's speaking coach and LuAnn really adores her- especially for her skillful way of assisting her to pull the right content together, in order to craft a captivating and cohesive speech. On the show today Carol explains what you really need to be thinking about, and the best tactics to use if you're not yet that well-known and you're going to be taking part a panel discussion. Listen in to find out about ways to really connect with an audience.

Speaking Your Brand helps high-performing and purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals to shape their businesses and personal brands, share their message, and become recognized as influencers in their field. Carol is a sought-after presenter and trainer on public speaking, branding, and leadership for women. She's also a podcaster and a TEDx speaker. Carol teaches classes in business and marketing at a university and she serves as a political analyst on TV news during election seasons. She is based in Orlando Florida and she works with her clients both locally and virtually around the world. Listen in today to find out what Carol has to share about public speaking and really engaging with your audience. 

 

Show Highlights:  

  • How to be a really great panelist.
  • What a moderator could do to keep the conversation flowing if someone is dominating a panel discussion.
  • What you can do if you're a panelist and someone on the panel is really monopolizing the conversation.
  • Setting the ground rules ahead of time.
  • What you need to prepare beforehand if you're going to be a panelist.
  • Using emotion to create a really engaging story.
  • Giving careful thought to the meaningful content that you're going to be talking about.
  • Tips for being gracious and complimenting others authentically when you're in a panel discussion. 
  • Ways that you can bond with the other panelists, before the discussion.
  • Taking the opportunity to network with the other panelists.
  • Why you should give the moderator your own printed introduction before the discussion.
  • Creating the very best pitch for yourself.
  • Checking the room out beforehand, prior to the panel discussion.
  • Ways to alleviate any nervousness you may feel before the discussion.
  • Ways of getting the audience to relate to you.
  • Remember that the more you do it, the better you will get.

 

To check out the Speaking Your Brand Podcast go to www.speakingyourbrand.com/podcast  

To get the PDF for this show go to www.luannnigara.com/episode307

 

 

 

]]> 2873 no 306: Rachel Cannon: Key Steps for Success in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/306-rachel-cannon-key-steps-for-success-in-your-interior-design-business Welcome to today's show! It really looks like our guest for today, Rachel Cannon of Rachel Cannon Limited Interiors, is doing some good things down in Baton Rouge Louisiana! What really gets LuAnn going is Rachel's promise on her website of a structured process and a step-by-step method, when it comes to her design. On today's show, Rachel talks about the fifteen-step the ten-step processes that she uses with her clients and how she came to develop them. She also discusses the way that she changed her marketing in order to attract the right client. Listen in to find out more.    The specialty of Rachel Cannon Limited is designing a space where you'll feel happiest and at peace, that's both practical and uniquely beautiful, and that also tells the story of who you are. Rachel is known for creating classic, fresh, and smart interiors, with details that are both livable and deluxe. As an experienced and licensed interior designer, she leads a team of creative minds who effortlessly mix subtle color and rich architectural features, weaving in the meaningful details of your life. Listen in today to find out about Rachel's design processes and how she markets her business. Show highlights: Rachel discusses her systems and the way that she works with her clients. Rachel's ideal client profile. How Rachel's fifteen-step process About Rachel's Ten-Step New Construction package. What Rachel's VIP Day and her One Week Room Rescue is all about. Why the process keeps refining. How Rachel changed her marketing to attract the right client. A good way of dealing with difficult clients. The value of having a really good contract with your client. Teaching your clients how to work with you. Rachel's document of 'rules' for her clients-why she uses it and what it has in it. The real cost of interruptions when you're working. What brought about a turning point for Rachel, regarding the fees she charges. Discovering your real value. Why it's important to know who your ideal client is. How Rachel's VIP Day came about. Getting clear on charging the right amount for your services. How Rachel vets her potential clients to see if they're a fit for her. Why you really need to document everything that happens with your clients.  Links: Her website and social: Rachel Cannon Limited Facebook: RCL Interiors Instagram Twitter Linkedin: Rachel Cannon Tue, 13 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! It really looks like our guest for today, Rachel Cannon of Rachel Cannon Limited Interiors, is doing some good things down in Baton Rouge Louisiana! What really gets LuAnn going is Rachel's promise on her website of a... Welcome to today's show! It really looks like our guest for today, Rachel Cannon of Rachel Cannon Limited Interiors, is doing some good things down in Baton Rouge Louisiana! What really gets LuAnn going is Rachel's promise on her website of a structured process and a step-by-step method, when it comes to her design. On today's show, Rachel talks about the fifteen-step the ten-step processes that she uses with her clients and how she came to develop them. She also discusses the way that she changed her marketing in order to attract the right client. Listen in to find out more.    The specialty of Rachel Cannon Limited is designing a space where you'll feel happiest and at peace, that's both practical and uniquely beautiful, and that also tells the story of who you are. Rachel is known for creating classic, fresh, and smart interiors, with details that are both livable and deluxe. As an experienced and licensed interior designer, she leads a team of creative minds who effortlessly mix subtle color and rich architectural features, weaving in the meaningful details of your life. Listen in today to find out about Rachel's design processes and how she markets her business. Show highlights: Rachel discusses her systems and the way that she works with her clients. Rachel's ideal client profile. How Rachel's fifteen-step process About Rachel's Ten-Step New Construction package. What Rachel's VIP Day and her One Week Room Rescue is all about. Why the process keeps refining. How Rachel changed her marketing to attract the right client. A good way of dealing with difficult clients. The value of having a really good contract with your client. Teaching your clients how to work with you. Rachel's document of 'rules' for her clients-why she uses it and what it has in it. The real cost of interruptions when you're working. What brought about a turning point for Rachel, regarding the fees she charges. Discovering your real value. Why it's important to know who your ideal client is. How Rachel's VIP Day came about. Getting clear on charging the right amount for your services. How Rachel vets her potential clients to see if they're a fit for her. Why you really need to document everything that happens with your clients.  Links: Her website and social: Rachel Cannon Limited Facebook: RCL Interiors Instagram Twitter Linkedin: Rachel Cannon Welcome to today's show! It really looks like our guest for today, Rachel Cannon of Rachel Cannon Limited Interiors, is doing some good things down in Baton Rouge Louisiana! What really gets LuAnn going is Rachel's promise on her website of a structured process and a step-by-step method, when it comes to her design. On today's show, Rachel talks about the fifteen-step the ten-step processes that she uses with her clients and how she came to develop them. She also discusses the way that she changed her marketing in order to attract the right client. Listen in to find out more.   

The specialty of Rachel Cannon Limited is designing a space where you'll feel happiest and at peace, that's both practical and uniquely beautiful, and that also tells the story of who you are. Rachel is known for creating classic, fresh, and smart interiors, with details that are both livable and deluxe. As an experienced and licensed interior designer, she leads a team of creative minds who effortlessly mix subtle color and rich architectural features, weaving in the meaningful details of your life. Listen in today to find out about Rachel's design processes and how she markets her business.

Show highlights:

  • Rachel discusses her systems and the way that she works with her clients.
  • Rachel's ideal client profile.
  • How Rachel's fifteen-step process
  • About Rachel's Ten-Step New Construction package.
  • What Rachel's VIP Day and her One Week Room Rescue is all about.
  • Why the process keeps refining.
  • How Rachel changed her marketing to attract the right client.
  • A good way of dealing with difficult clients.
  • The value of having a really good contract with your client.
  • Teaching your clients how to work with you.
  • Rachel's document of 'rules' for her clients-why she uses it and what it has in it.
  • The real cost of interruptions when you're working.
  • What brought about a turning point for Rachel, regarding the fees she charges.
  • Discovering your real value.
  • Why it's important to know who your ideal client is.
  • How Rachel's VIP Day came about.
  • Getting clear on charging the right amount for your services.
  • How Rachel vets her potential clients to see if they're a fit for her.
  • Why you really need to document everything that happens with your clients.

 Links:

Her website and social: Rachel Cannon Limited Facebook: RCL Interiors Instagram Twitter Linkedin: Rachel Cannon]]> 5148 no 305: Elizabeth Scruggs- The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business® http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/305-elizabeth-scruggs-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are introducing a new feature on the show today, called The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- Listener Shows. This show will be intermingled with our current Power Talk Friday feature and either one or the other will air each Friday. There have been a number of designers who have emailed LuAnn over the years and shared with her their lists of all the things that they have learned from the podcast and then applied directly to their businesses.  It then occurred to LuAnn that if you, the listener, actually hear your peers explaining the results of taking those actions, it may just give you the extra push that you need to take action on all the information that you have received from the show. That is what has motivated LuAnn to start this new feature for the show so listen in today to find out more! Our guest for today is Elizabeth Scruggs and she's the owner of Superior Construction And Design in Tennessee. She is the mid state's only female general contractor and designer. She's been in business since 2000. Recognising a love of construction when building her own home at the age of twenty-four, she knew that coupling that knowledge with her interior design skill was a service that few could provide. Elizabeth and SC and D have won numerous awards over the years and she believes that continuing education is vital for success. Elizabeth attends industry trade events and market events each year and she was a member of the Modenus Blog Tour of K-biz in January of 2018. She currently serves on the national board of directors for the Real Estate Staging Association, the board of directors for the Nashville chapter of the Nashville Association of Women in Construction, she's the vice-president of the virtual chapter of the Interior Design Society and the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Elizabeth's clients are busy working professionals in the age range of forty-five to fifty-five, looking to upgrade their current home, but lacking the time and desire to oversee it. She finds her sweet spot in handling these full-home renovations from inception to completion. Elizabeth has been a contributing writer for Wilson County's premier magazine, Wilson Living, for six years and she's been featured in The Lebanon Democrat, The Wilson Post, and The Mount Juliet Chronicle. Elizabeth resides in Tennessee, just east of Nashville, with her husband of twenty-six years and their twin daughters and young son. Listen in to find out what Elizabeth has to share with you today. Show highlights: Elizabeth shares about what it was about Brittany and her company that moved her to action.(#149) Elizabeth's 'aha moment' with Gavin Zuchlinski of Acuity Scheduling and how Acuity has really worked for her. (#241) All about Elizabeth's 'pick your brain' thirty-minute phone calls. How Elizabeth has benefited from getting to know about Kate The Socialite. (#104) What Elizabeth has learned about systems from Kimberley Seldon. (#112) Why Elizabeth really loves Nancy Ganzekaufer's Business In Words so much! (#256) What she learned from The Prepared Performer- Molly Mahoney. (#247) Elizabeth's awesome takeaway from the Facebook Live Queen- Jessica Brace. (#250) What Kate O'Hara had to teach Elizabeth about Pinterest. (#215) What she took away from the episode with Summer Tannhauser. (#292) How much Elizabeth learned from the episode with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of the Savour Partnership. (#209) The effect that the episode with Adam Japko, of the Design Blogger's Conference, had on her. (#95) Time chunking with Darci Hether. (#220) Lessons learned from Carla Aston (#242), Fred Berns (#174), and Tabitha Carro (#235). About Elizabeth's relationship with her good friend and designer bestie Kristi Barnett aka The Decorologist. Links: Elizabeth's website:   Superior Construction and Design    Elizabeth on social: facebook  blog pinterest houzz insta   You can get your free PDF of The Things I Learned From Elizabeth Scruggs at www.luannnigara.com/305 Fri, 09 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are introducing a new feature on the show today, called The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- Listener Shows. This show will be intermingled with our current Power Talk Friday... Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are introducing a new feature on the show today, called The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- Listener Shows. This show will be intermingled with our current Power Talk Friday feature and either one or the other will air each Friday. There have been a number of designers who have emailed LuAnn over the years and shared with her their lists of all the things that they have learned from the podcast and then applied directly to their businesses.  It then occurred to LuAnn that if you, the listener, actually hear your peers explaining the results of taking those actions, it may just give you the extra push that you need to take action on all the information that you have received from the show. That is what has motivated LuAnn to start this new feature for the show so listen in today to find out more! Our guest for today is Elizabeth Scruggs and she's the owner of Superior Construction And Design in Tennessee. She is the mid state's only female general contractor and designer. She's been in business since 2000. Recognising a love of construction when building her own home at the age of twenty-four, she knew that coupling that knowledge with her interior design skill was a service that few could provide. Elizabeth and SC and D have won numerous awards over the years and she believes that continuing education is vital for success. Elizabeth attends industry trade events and market events each year and she was a member of the Modenus Blog Tour of K-biz in January of 2018. She currently serves on the national board of directors for the Real Estate Staging Association, the board of directors for the Nashville chapter of the Nashville Association of Women in Construction, she's the vice-president of the virtual chapter of the Interior Design Society and the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Elizabeth's clients are busy working professionals in the age range of forty-five to fifty-five, looking to upgrade their current home, but lacking the time and desire to oversee it. She finds her sweet spot in handling these full-home renovations from inception to completion. Elizabeth has been a contributing writer for Wilson County's premier magazine, Wilson Living, for six years and she's been featured in The Lebanon Democrat, The Wilson Post, and The Mount Juliet Chronicle. Elizabeth resides in Tennessee, just east of Nashville, with her husband of twenty-six years and their twin daughters and young son. Listen in to find out what Elizabeth has to share with you today. Show highlights: Elizabeth shares about what it was about Brittany and her company that moved her to action.(#149) Elizabeth's 'aha moment' with Gavin Zuchlinski of Acuity Scheduling and how Acuity has really worked for her. (#241) All about Elizabeth's 'pick your brain' thirty-minute phone calls. How Elizabeth has benefited from getting to know about Kate The Socialite. (#104) What Elizabeth has learned about systems from Kimberley Seldon. (#112) Why Elizabeth really loves Nancy Ganzekaufer's Business In Words so much! (#256) What she learned from The Prepared Performer- Molly Mahoney. (#247) Elizabeth's awesome takeaway from the Facebook Live Queen- Jessica Brace. (#250) What Kate O'Hara had to teach Elizabeth about Pinterest. (#215) What she took away from the episode with Summer Tannhauser. (#292) How much Elizabeth learned from the episode with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of the Savour Partnership. (#209) The effect that the episode with Adam Japko, of the Design Blogger's Conference, had on her. (#95) Time chunking with Darci Hether. (#220) Lessons learned from Carla Aston (#242), Fred Berns (#174), and Tabitha Carro (#235). About Elizabeth's relationship with her good friend and designer bestie Kristi Barnett aka The Decorologist. Links: Elizabeth's website:   Superior Construction and Design    Elizabeth on social: facebook  blog pinterest houzz insta   You can get your free PDF of The Things I Learned From Elizabeth Scruggs at www.luannnigara.com/305 Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We are introducing a new feature on the show today, called The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- Listener Shows. This show will be intermingled with our current Power Talk Friday feature and either one or the other will air each Friday.

There have been a number of designers who have emailed LuAnn over the years and shared with her their lists of all the things that they have learned from the podcast and then applied directly to their businesses.  It then occurred to LuAnn that if you, the listener, actually hear your peers explaining the results of taking those actions, it may just give you the extra push that you need to take action on all the information that you have received from the show. That is what has motivated LuAnn to start this new feature for the show so listen in today to find out more!

Our guest for today is Elizabeth Scruggs and she's the owner of Superior Construction And Design in Tennessee. She is the mid state's only female general contractor and designer. She's been in business since 2000. Recognising a love of construction when building her own home at the age of twenty-four, she knew that coupling that knowledge with her interior design skill was a service that few could provide. Elizabeth and SC and D have won numerous awards over the years and she believes that continuing education is vital for success. Elizabeth attends industry trade events and market events each year and she was a member of the Modenus Blog Tour of K-biz in January of 2018. She currently serves on the national board of directors for the Real Estate Staging Association, the board of directors for the Nashville chapter of the Nashville Association of Women in Construction, she's the vice-president of the virtual chapter of the Interior Design Society and the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Elizabeth's clients are busy working professionals in the age range of forty-five to fifty-five, looking to upgrade their current home, but lacking the time and desire to oversee it. She finds her sweet spot in handling these full-home renovations from inception to completion. Elizabeth has been a contributing writer for Wilson County's premier magazine, Wilson Living, for six years and she's been featured in The Lebanon Democrat, The Wilson Post, and The Mount Juliet Chronicle. Elizabeth resides in Tennessee, just east of Nashville, with her husband of twenty-six years and their twin daughters and young son. Listen in to find out what Elizabeth has to share with you today.

Show highlights:

  • Elizabeth shares about what it was about Brittany and her company that moved her to action.(#149)
  • Elizabeth's 'aha moment' with Gavin Zuchlinski of Acuity Scheduling and how Acuity has really worked for her. (#241)
  • All about Elizabeth's 'pick your brain' thirty-minute phone calls.
  • How Elizabeth has benefited from getting to know about Kate The Socialite. (#104)
  • What Elizabeth has learned about systems from Kimberley Seldon. (#112)
  • Why Elizabeth really loves Nancy Ganzekaufer's Business In Words so much! (#256)
  • What she learned from The Prepared Performer- Molly Mahoney. (#247)
  • Elizabeth's awesome takeaway from the Facebook Live Queen- Jessica Brace. (#250)
  • What Kate O'Hara had to teach Elizabeth about Pinterest. (#215)
  • What she took away from the episode with Summer Tannhauser. (#292)
  • How much Elizabeth learned from the episode with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of the Savour Partnership. (#209)
  • The effect that the episode with Adam Japko, of the Design Blogger's Conference, had on her. (#95)
  • Time chunking with Darci Hether. (#220)
  • Lessons learned from Carla Aston (#242), Fred Berns (#174), and Tabitha Carro (#235).
  • About Elizabeth's relationship with her good friend and designer bestie Kristi Barnett aka The Decorologist.

Links:

Elizabeth's website:   Superior Construction and Design    Elizabeth on social: facebook  blog pinterest houzz insta  

You can get your free PDF of The Things I Learned From Elizabeth Scruggs at www.luannnigara.com/305

]]> 4388 no 304: Steve & Jill McKenzie: Multiple Income Streams. Interior Design, Product Lines, Artist & Retail Showroom http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/304-steve-jill-mckenzie-multiple-income-streams-interior-design-product-lines-artist-retail-showroom Welcome to today's show where we feature another husband and wife team, Jill and Steve McKenzie. They are the owners of McKenzie Design Llc and also Steve McKenzie's, a home décor business which is located in the heart of Atlanta's west-midtown design district. Steve does the interior designing and runs the product design side of the business, while Jill predominantly oversees the running of the store and does the buying for the business.  Recently, they have also been doing a lot of product design and creation and also the licensing of certain products. Listen in today, to find out how they work together as a team, to run the retail end of their interior design business. Steve started Steve McKenzie's in 2012 after his tenure of more than twenty years with Berkshire-Hathaway owned Larson-Juhl, a custom frame manufacturer, and distributor, where he served most recently as the company's president and CEO. Through practicing as an artist for more than twenty-five years, Steve has developed a unique technique of painting with walnut ink and focusing on organic composition. His studio is located in the upper loft space of Steve McKenzie's. Jill and Steve have three children and three Springer Spaniels. Listen in today, to find out more about the ethical and service driven way that they run their business. Show highlights: It all started with Steve's art- the fabric collection being the genesis of both the store and the design business. The community that has developed as an offshoot of their showroom. How it happened that Steve ended up taking the route he did, creating and selling his own textile line in showrooms across the country. How Steve found the right experts to help him with getting his product line manufactured and launched. Getting really clear about your expectations with mentors and mentees. Some tips for getting your product line known 'out there'. The Jill works (and hustles) with Steve to get his products out there. The grounding effect of Steve's corporate background. What went into Steve and Jill's decision to open their own showroom and retail lifestyle store. The idea of creating a personality around Steve's fabrics. Jill's style of marketing their product lines. Jill and Steve's approach to their lifestyle brand of products. How the design side of their business was born. Evaluating whether or not to start a showroom. How Steve and Jill cope when their opinions differ in their business. Creating healthy boundaries and a good work-life balance. Covering all the hours in the showroom. Jill and Steve's real commitment to really great customer service. Why the customer is always (Even when they're not!) Links: Website and Social: Steve Mckenzies Mckenzie Interior Design Steve Mckenzies Steve Mckenzie Art Houzz – McKenzie Interior Design/steve mckenzie’s Pinterest - @stevemckenzies Instagram - @stevemckenzies Twitter - @stevemckenzies Facebook - @stevemckenzies Tue, 06 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show where we feature another husband and wife team, Jill and Steve McKenzie. They are the owners of McKenzie Design Llc and also Steve McKenzie's, a home décor business which is located in the heart of Atlanta's west-midtown... Welcome to today's show where we feature another husband and wife team, Jill and Steve McKenzie. They are the owners of McKenzie Design Llc and also Steve McKenzie's, a home décor business which is located in the heart of Atlanta's west-midtown design district. Steve does the interior designing and runs the product design side of the business, while Jill predominantly oversees the running of the store and does the buying for the business.  Recently, they have also been doing a lot of product design and creation and also the licensing of certain products. Listen in today, to find out how they work together as a team, to run the retail end of their interior design business. Steve started Steve McKenzie's in 2012 after his tenure of more than twenty years with Berkshire-Hathaway owned Larson-Juhl, a custom frame manufacturer, and distributor, where he served most recently as the company's president and CEO. Through practicing as an artist for more than twenty-five years, Steve has developed a unique technique of painting with walnut ink and focusing on organic composition. His studio is located in the upper loft space of Steve McKenzie's. Jill and Steve have three children and three Springer Spaniels. Listen in today, to find out more about the ethical and service driven way that they run their business. Show highlights: It all started with Steve's art- the fabric collection being the genesis of both the store and the design business. The community that has developed as an offshoot of their showroom. How it happened that Steve ended up taking the route he did, creating and selling his own textile line in showrooms across the country. How Steve found the right experts to help him with getting his product line manufactured and launched. Getting really clear about your expectations with mentors and mentees. Some tips for getting your product line known 'out there'. The Jill works (and hustles) with Steve to get his products out there. The grounding effect of Steve's corporate background. What went into Steve and Jill's decision to open their own showroom and retail lifestyle store. The idea of creating a personality around Steve's fabrics. Jill's style of marketing their product lines. Jill and Steve's approach to their lifestyle brand of products. How the design side of their business was born. Evaluating whether or not to start a showroom. How Steve and Jill cope when their opinions differ in their business. Creating healthy boundaries and a good work-life balance. Covering all the hours in the showroom. Jill and Steve's real commitment to really great customer service. Why the customer is always (Even when they're not!) Links: Website and Social: Steve Mckenzies Mckenzie Interior Design Steve Mckenzies Steve Mckenzie Art Houzz – McKenzie Interior Design/steve mckenzie’s Pinterest - @stevemckenzies Instagram - @stevemckenzies Twitter - @stevemckenzies Facebook - @stevemckenzies Welcome to today's show where we feature another husband and wife team, Jill and Steve McKenzie. They are the owners of McKenzie Design Llc and also Steve McKenzie's, a home décor business which is located in the heart of Atlanta's west-midtown design district. Steve does the interior designing and runs the product design side of the business, while Jill predominantly oversees the running of the store and does the buying for the business.  Recently, they have also been doing a lot of product design and creation and also the licensing of certain products. Listen in today, to find out how they work together as a team, to run the retail end of their interior design business.

Steve started Steve McKenzie's in 2012 after his tenure of more than twenty years with Berkshire-Hathaway owned Larson-Juhl, a custom frame manufacturer, and distributor, where he served most recently as the company's president and CEO. Through practicing as an artist for more than twenty-five years, Steve has developed a unique technique of painting with walnut ink and focusing on organic composition. His studio is located in the upper loft space of Steve McKenzie's. Jill and Steve have three children and three Springer Spaniels. Listen in today, to find out more about the ethical and service driven way that they run their business.

Show highlights:

  • It all started with Steve's art- the fabric collection being the genesis of both the store and the design business.
  • The community that has developed as an offshoot of their showroom.
  • How it happened that Steve ended up taking the route he did, creating and selling his own textile line in showrooms across the country.
  • How Steve found the right experts to help him with getting his product line manufactured and launched.
  • Getting really clear about your expectations with mentors and mentees.
  • Some tips for getting your product line known 'out there'.
  • The Jill works (and hustles) with Steve to get his products out there.
  • The grounding effect of Steve's corporate background.
  • What went into Steve and Jill's decision to open their own showroom and retail lifestyle store.
  • The idea of creating a personality around Steve's fabrics.
  • Jill's style of marketing their product lines.
  • Jill and Steve's approach to their lifestyle brand of products.
  • How the design side of their business was born.
  • Evaluating whether or not to start a showroom.
  • How Steve and Jill cope when their opinions differ in their business.
  • Creating healthy boundaries and a good work-life balance.
  • Covering all the hours in the showroom.
  • Jill and Steve's real commitment to really great customer service.
  • Why the customer is always (Even when they're not!)

Links:

Website and Social: Steve Mckenzies Mckenzie Interior Design Steve Mckenzies Steve Mckenzie Art Houzz – McKenzie Interior Design/steve mckenzie’s Pinterest - @stevemckenzies Instagram - @stevemckenzies Twitter - @stevemckenzies Facebook - @stevemckenzies]]> 3869 no 303: Power Talk Friday - Rebecca Richardson: Hiring New Staff Members for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/303-power-talk-friday-rebecca-richardson-hiring-new-staff-members-for-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Rebecca Richards joins us as our guest on the show today and she's the director of marketing for Charles Cunniffe Architects in Aspen Colorado. Rebecca is also part of the firm's management committee and one of her responsibilities within that committee is the hiring process for the firm. So today she talks to us about the process that she uses for hiring and she also shares some of the key questions that she asks and some of the things that she looks for when she interviews candidates. Whether you're a solo interior designer looking to make your first hire or you run mid-size or a larger firm and you're looking for a direct process to follow when doing your hiring, we relate this to you, so listen in to find out what Rebecca has to share with you on the show today. Rebecca joined Charles Cunniffe Architects in 2006 and the firm widely increased their market reach while decreasing their marketing expenditure under her leadership as director of marketing. Rececca's keen eye for design has led to the complete redesign of the company's marketing materials and their website, and also to the addition of their social media outlets. Her appreciation for design and sustainable business practices has become instrumental in the operations at CCA. CCA is quite a powerhouse of an architectural firm. They have nineteen people on their staff and they have been named as best places to work for the last four years running. Their Elk Peak Ranch project was named Home Of The Year in November  2017 by Mountain Living Magazine- and it's truly spectacular! (Check out their website www.cunniffe.com or my Instagram feed today, as I will be featuring their work all day.) Listen in now to find out more. Show highlights: Rebecca describes the structure within CCA and also what the various roles are, within their management committee. Rebecca's holistic approach to the hiring process. Rebecca goes through her entire hiring process, step by step. Methodically looking at the necessary roles within the office structure, prior to the hiring process. Where CCA advertise for their staff. Why Rebecca likes to respond to every single resume that she receives. Cross-checking the resumes, to get a bigger picture of the person. It can be quite hard to stand out as an entry-level applicant, so Rebecca explains what makes someone really stand out for her. Internships- how they can really make you stand out as a job applicant. The best questions to ask when conducting a phone interview. The importance of finding out what the applicant really wants and expects- in terms of the job and the salary. Rebecca describes her process of the second interview. Why it's really worth spending the time figuring out exactly where the applicant is at, and if they fit where you need them to be. Why it's really important to ask for references. Getting the information that you really need when doing a reference check. Knowing when it's the right time to hire someone. Links:   CCA website Skype handle: rebeccalynnhill Instagram Facebook Blog Twitter LuAnn on Instagram: @luannnigara Kravet has launched their new website and they have a new code for you, as a listener of this podcast, to get 10% off any one purchase of Kravet fabric, trimmings, or wallpaper. Go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at checkout. Charles Cunniffe Architects website: Cunniffe Fri, 02 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Rebecca Richards joins us as our guest on the show today and she's the director of marketing for Charles Cunniffe Architects in Aspen Colorado. Rebecca is also part of the firm's management committee and one of her... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Rebecca Richards joins us as our guest on the show today and she's the director of marketing for Charles Cunniffe Architects in Aspen Colorado. Rebecca is also part of the firm's management committee and one of her responsibilities within that committee is the hiring process for the firm. So today she talks to us about the process that she uses for hiring and she also shares some of the key questions that she asks and some of the things that she looks for when she interviews candidates. Whether you're a solo interior designer looking to make your first hire or you run mid-size or a larger firm and you're looking for a direct process to follow when doing your hiring, we relate this to you, so listen in to find out what Rebecca has to share with you on the show today. Rebecca joined Charles Cunniffe Architects in 2006 and the firm widely increased their market reach while decreasing their marketing expenditure under her leadership as director of marketing. Rececca's keen eye for design has led to the complete redesign of the company's marketing materials and their website, and also to the addition of their social media outlets. Her appreciation for design and sustainable business practices has become instrumental in the operations at CCA. CCA is quite a powerhouse of an architectural firm. They have nineteen people on their staff and they have been named as best places to work for the last four years running. Their Elk Peak Ranch project was named Home Of The Year in November  2017 by Mountain Living Magazine- and it's truly spectacular! (Check out their website www.cunniffe.com or my Instagram feed today, as I will be featuring their work all day.) Listen in now to find out more. Show highlights: Rebecca describes the structure within CCA and also what the various roles are, within their management committee. Rebecca's holistic approach to the hiring process. Rebecca goes through her entire hiring process, step by step. Methodically looking at the necessary roles within the office structure, prior to the hiring process. Where CCA advertise for their staff. Why Rebecca likes to respond to every single resume that she receives. Cross-checking the resumes, to get a bigger picture of the person. It can be quite hard to stand out as an entry-level applicant, so Rebecca explains what makes someone really stand out for her. Internships- how they can really make you stand out as a job applicant. The best questions to ask when conducting a phone interview. The importance of finding out what the applicant really wants and expects- in terms of the job and the salary. Rebecca describes her process of the second interview. Why it's really worth spending the time figuring out exactly where the applicant is at, and if they fit where you need them to be. Why it's really important to ask for references. Getting the information that you really need when doing a reference check. Knowing when it's the right time to hire someone. Links:   CCA website Skype handle: rebeccalynnhill Instagram Facebook Blog Twitter LuAnn on Instagram: @luannnigara Kravet has launched their new website and they have a new code for you, as a listener of this podcast, to get 10% off any one purchase of Kravet fabric, trimmings, or wallpaper. Go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at checkout. Charles Cunniffe Architects website: Cunniffe Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Rebecca Richards joins us as our guest on the show today and she's the director of marketing for Charles Cunniffe Architects in Aspen Colorado. Rebecca is also part of the firm's management committee and one of her responsibilities within that committee is the hiring process for the firm. So today she talks to us about the process that she uses for hiring and she also shares some of the key questions that she asks and some of the things that she looks for when she interviews candidates. Whether you're a solo interior designer looking to make your first hire or you run mid-size or a larger firm and you're looking for a direct process to follow when doing your hiring, we relate this to you, so listen in to find out what Rebecca has to share with you on the show today.

Rebecca joined Charles Cunniffe Architects in 2006 and the firm widely increased their market reach while decreasing their marketing expenditure under her leadership as director of marketing. Rececca's keen eye for design has led to the complete redesign of the company's marketing materials and their website, and also to the addition of their social media outlets. Her appreciation for design and sustainable business practices has become instrumental in the operations at CCA.

CCA is quite a powerhouse of an architectural firm. They have nineteen people on their staff and they have been named as best places to work for the last four years running. Their Elk Peak Ranch project was named Home Of The Year in November  2017 by Mountain Living Magazine- and it's truly spectacular! (Check out their website www.cunniffe.com or my Instagram feed today, as I will be featuring their work all day.) Listen in now to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Rebecca describes the structure within CCA and also what the various roles are, within their management committee.
  • Rebecca's holistic approach to the hiring process.
  • Rebecca goes through her entire hiring process, step by step.
  • Methodically looking at the necessary roles within the office structure, prior to the hiring process.
  • Where CCA advertise for their staff.
  • Why Rebecca likes to respond to every single resume that she receives.
  • Cross-checking the resumes, to get a bigger picture of the person.
  • It can be quite hard to stand out as an entry-level applicant, so Rebecca explains what makes someone really stand out for her.
  • Internships- how they can really make you stand out as a job applicant.
  • The best questions to ask when conducting a phone interview.
  • The importance of finding out what the applicant really wants and expects- in terms of the job and the salary.
  • Rebecca describes her process of the second interview.
  • Why it's really worth spending the time figuring out exactly where the applicant is at, and if they fit where you need them to be.
  • Why it's really important to ask for references.
  • Getting the information that you really need when doing a reference check.
  • Knowing when it's the right time to hire someone.

Links:

 

CCA website

Skype handle: rebeccalynnhill

Instagram

Facebook

Blog

Twitter

LuAnn on Instagram: @luannnigara

Kravet has launched their new website and they have a new code for you, as a listener of this podcast, to get 10% off any one purchase of Kravet fabric, trimmings, or wallpaper. Go to Kravet and use the code AWDB10 at checkout.

Charles Cunniffe Architects website: Cunniffe

]]> 5214 no 302: Meadowbank Designs: Buying an Existing Interior Designer Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/302-meadowbank-designs-buying-an-existing-interior-designer-business Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Laura Buchner and Kirsten McCoy with us on the show and today we are going to be talking to them about how their interior design firm was founded in 1982 by Penny Steele, and how they purchased it from her in 2005 when she retired. Listen in as we pick apart their motivation for buying an existing business from someone else rather than starting their own business from scratch. Laura and Kirsten are the principals of Meadowbank Designs, which is located in the Philadelphia Pennsylvania area. Meadowbank Designs has completed a wide range of projects throughout the country, for generations of clients, from historic preservation to vacation homes and also additions and renovations. They are best known for residential design which combines traditional motifs with a modern sensibility, and also for providing the highest quality of design excellence and personal service. Listen in today to find out about Laura and Kirsten's decision to buy their business, and how they went about acquiring it. Show highlights: Kirsten and Laura discuss their decision to buy the business. The confidence that they felt about their relationships with the existing clients. The really awesome way that Penny, the previous owner of the business, worked to create a great relationship between Laura, Kirsten and the existing clients. What made them decide to buy an existing business, rather than starting up one of their own. The organic process of how they came to decide to buy the business from the previous owner. How the previous owner arrived at the value of the business. The time that it took for the business to be fully paid off and for Kirsten and Laura to begin making a profit. How they worked their finances, in order to get the business paid off as quickly as possible. Using professional systems, in order to run a business the right way. How they overcame the difficulties that they experienced during the recession in 2008. The importance of their constant and clear communication. The number of clients that they typically handle during any given quarter. The roles that Laura and Kirsten each play for their projects. The really mature way that they handle conflict when it comes up. The different, yet complimentary things that Laura and Kirsten each bring to the business. Some things worth considering, when thinking about buying an existing business. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Fred Berns: Episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226 and #289 Links: Meadowbank designs can be found at: Meadowbank Designs Facebook: Meadowbank-Designs Instagram: Meadowbank Designs Twitter: Meadowbank Designs Pinterest: Meadowbank Designs Fred Bern's website: https://interiordesignbusiness.net Tue, 27 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Laura Buchner and Kirsten McCoy with us on the show and today we are going to be talking to them about how their interior design firm was founded in 1982 by Penny Steele, and how they... Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Laura Buchner and Kirsten McCoy with us on the show and today we are going to be talking to them about how their interior design firm was founded in 1982 by Penny Steele, and how they purchased it from her in 2005 when she retired. Listen in as we pick apart their motivation for buying an existing business from someone else rather than starting their own business from scratch. Laura and Kirsten are the principals of Meadowbank Designs, which is located in the Philadelphia Pennsylvania area. Meadowbank Designs has completed a wide range of projects throughout the country, for generations of clients, from historic preservation to vacation homes and also additions and renovations. They are best known for residential design which combines traditional motifs with a modern sensibility, and also for providing the highest quality of design excellence and personal service. Listen in today to find out about Laura and Kirsten's decision to buy their business, and how they went about acquiring it. Show highlights: Kirsten and Laura discuss their decision to buy the business. The confidence that they felt about their relationships with the existing clients. The really awesome way that Penny, the previous owner of the business, worked to create a great relationship between Laura, Kirsten and the existing clients. What made them decide to buy an existing business, rather than starting up one of their own. The organic process of how they came to decide to buy the business from the previous owner. How the previous owner arrived at the value of the business. The time that it took for the business to be fully paid off and for Kirsten and Laura to begin making a profit. How they worked their finances, in order to get the business paid off as quickly as possible. Using professional systems, in order to run a business the right way. How they overcame the difficulties that they experienced during the recession in 2008. The importance of their constant and clear communication. The number of clients that they typically handle during any given quarter. The roles that Laura and Kirsten each play for their projects. The really mature way that they handle conflict when it comes up. The different, yet complimentary things that Laura and Kirsten each bring to the business. Some things worth considering, when thinking about buying an existing business. Previous episodes mentioned on the show: Fred Berns: Episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226 and #289 Links: Meadowbank designs can be found at: Meadowbank Designs Facebook: Meadowbank-Designs Instagram: Meadowbank Designs Twitter: Meadowbank Designs Pinterest: Meadowbank Designs Fred Bern's website: https://interiordesignbusiness.net Welcome to today's episode of A Well-Designed Business! We have Laura Buchner and Kirsten McCoy with us on the show and today we are going to be talking to them about how their interior design firm was founded in 1982 by Penny Steele, and how they purchased it from her in 2005 when she retired. Listen in as we pick apart their motivation for buying an existing business from someone else rather than starting their own business from scratch.

Laura and Kirsten are the principals of Meadowbank Designs, which is located in the Philadelphia Pennsylvania area. Meadowbank Designs has completed a wide range of projects throughout the country, for generations of clients, from historic preservation to vacation homes and also additions and renovations. They are best known for residential design which combines traditional motifs with a modern sensibility, and also for providing the highest quality of design excellence and personal service. Listen in today to find out about Laura and Kirsten's decision to buy their business, and how they went about acquiring it.

Show highlights:

  • Kirsten and Laura discuss their decision to buy the business.
  • The confidence that they felt about their relationships with the existing clients.
  • The really awesome way that Penny, the previous owner of the business, worked to create a great relationship between Laura, Kirsten and the existing clients.
  • What made them decide to buy an existing business, rather than starting up one of their own.
  • The organic process of how they came to decide to buy the business from the previous owner.
  • How the previous owner arrived at the value of the business.
  • The time that it took for the business to be fully paid off and for Kirsten and Laura to begin making a profit.
  • How they worked their finances, in order to get the business paid off as quickly as possible.
  • Using professional systems, in order to run a business the right way.
  • How they overcame the difficulties that they experienced during the recession in 2008.
  • The importance of their constant and clear communication.
  • The number of clients that they typically handle during any given quarter.
  • The roles that Laura and Kirsten each play for their projects.
  • The really mature way that they handle conflict when it comes up.
  • The different, yet complimentary things that Laura and Kirsten each bring to the business.
  • Some things worth considering, when thinking about buying an existing business.

Previous episodes mentioned on the show:

Fred Berns: Episodes #22, #48, #96, #174, #226 and #289

Links:

Meadowbank designs can be found at:

Meadowbank Designs

Facebook: Meadowbank-Designs

Instagram: Meadowbank Designs

Twitter: Meadowbank Designs

Pinterest: Meadowbank Designs

Fred Bern's website: https://interiordesignbusiness.net

]]> 5065 no 301: Article.com Launches Trade Program http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/301-articlecom-launches-trade-program Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Duncan Blair, the director of marketing for Article, a furniture company out of Vancouver Canada, and the sponsor for today's show. Article recently approached LuAnn about getting onto the podcast to tell you about their products. LuAnn agreed to this because she thinks that it's an interesting company with great potential as a resource for you and your interior design projects. Duncan is here today to tell us all about Article, so listen in carefully as we pick it apart to see if it really is a viable option for us, as designers.                      Article has been in business since 2013. It is an online company and an original, modern furniture brand that engineers remarkably better furniture shopping experiences. It is a dedicated, deadline orientated, people pleasing type of company, with a trade facing program, and they are currently in the midst of an initiative to spread their wings and further develop their trade program, to make it both more efficient and more effective. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Duncan explains why he thinks that Article would make a really good alliance company for interior designers. What Article does, to help make the designers who have a hard time ordering furniture from an online location, more comfortable. Article's really generous return policy- if you don't like it, you can send it back- seamlessly, with no problem. About Article's dedicated trade team, to guide you and help you to pre-purchase. Jill and her team at Article are interior designers who really understand. Article has a complete fabric swatch kit, which is available to designers at no cost. Their really reasonable flat rate freight shipping fee, for anywhere in Canada or the USA. Article's three-tiered shipping model. Article's really awesome customer service. Duncan explains about their free exchange service. What really sets Article apart from other vendors, in terms of their delivery times. Article really prides itself on its ability to always meet your deadlines. The members of the team at Article are always ready to help you out with questions that are specific to the design industry. All about the furniture at Article and where it is made. About Article's fair trade policy and their pledge to only having a positive impact on the world. What would be required in order for you to become a trade partner with Article? (Go to welldesigned.article.com) The discounts that are available through their trade program. About the quality and styling of the products which are supplied by Article. Article's projected income for the next financial year. Links: Article on Instagram: @article Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Article: Article Linkedin: Article  Houzz: Article  Instagram: Article  Facebook: Article Fri, 23 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Duncan Blair, the director of marketing for Article, a furniture company out of Vancouver Canada, and the sponsor for today's show. Article recently approached LuAnn... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Duncan Blair, the director of marketing for Article, a furniture company out of Vancouver Canada, and the sponsor for today's show. Article recently approached LuAnn about getting onto the podcast to tell you about their products. LuAnn agreed to this because she thinks that it's an interesting company with great potential as a resource for you and your interior design projects. Duncan is here today to tell us all about Article, so listen in carefully as we pick it apart to see if it really is a viable option for us, as designers.                      Article has been in business since 2013. It is an online company and an original, modern furniture brand that engineers remarkably better furniture shopping experiences. It is a dedicated, deadline orientated, people pleasing type of company, with a trade facing program, and they are currently in the midst of an initiative to spread their wings and further develop their trade program, to make it both more efficient and more effective. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Duncan explains why he thinks that Article would make a really good alliance company for interior designers. What Article does, to help make the designers who have a hard time ordering furniture from an online location, more comfortable. Article's really generous return policy- if you don't like it, you can send it back- seamlessly, with no problem. About Article's dedicated trade team, to guide you and help you to pre-purchase. Jill and her team at Article are interior designers who really understand. Article has a complete fabric swatch kit, which is available to designers at no cost. Their really reasonable flat rate freight shipping fee, for anywhere in Canada or the USA. Article's three-tiered shipping model. Article's really awesome customer service. Duncan explains about their free exchange service. What really sets Article apart from other vendors, in terms of their delivery times. Article really prides itself on its ability to always meet your deadlines. The members of the team at Article are always ready to help you out with questions that are specific to the design industry. All about the furniture at Article and where it is made. About Article's fair trade policy and their pledge to only having a positive impact on the world. What would be required in order for you to become a trade partner with Article? (Go to welldesigned.article.com) The discounts that are available through their trade program. About the quality and styling of the products which are supplied by Article. Article's projected income for the next financial year. Links: Article on Instagram: @article Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Article: Article Linkedin: Article  Houzz: Article  Instagram: Article  Facebook: Article Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Duncan Blair, the director of marketing for Article, a furniture company out of Vancouver Canada, and the sponsor for today's show. Article recently approached LuAnn about getting onto the podcast to tell you about their products. LuAnn agreed to this because she thinks that it's an interesting company with great potential as a resource for you and your interior design projects. Duncan is here today to tell us all about Article, so listen in carefully as we pick it apart to see if it really is a viable option for us, as designers.                     

Article has been in business since 2013. It is an online company and an original, modern furniture brand that engineers remarkably better furniture shopping experiences. It is a dedicated, deadline orientated, people pleasing type of company, with a trade facing program, and they are currently in the midst of an initiative to spread their wings and further develop their trade program, to make it both more efficient and more effective. Listen in now, to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Duncan explains why he thinks that Article would make a really good alliance company for interior designers.
  • What Article does, to help make the designers who have a hard time ordering furniture from an online location, more comfortable.
  • Article's really generous return policy- if you don't like it, you can send it back- seamlessly, with no problem.
  • About Article's dedicated trade team, to guide you and help you to pre-purchase.
  • Jill and her team at Article are interior designers who really understand.
  • Article has a complete fabric swatch kit, which is available to designers at no cost.
  • Their really reasonable flat rate freight shipping fee, for anywhere in Canada or the USA.
  • Article's three-tiered shipping model.
  • Article's really awesome customer service.
  • Duncan explains about their free exchange service.
  • What really sets Article apart from other vendors, in terms of their delivery times.
  • Article really prides itself on its ability to always meet your deadlines.
  • The members of the team at Article are always ready to help you out with questions that are specific to the design industry.
  • All about the furniture at Article and where it is made.
  • About Article's fair trade policy and their pledge to only having a positive impact on the world.
  • What would be required in order for you to become a trade partner with Article? (Go to welldesigned.article.com)
  • The discounts that are available through their trade program.
  • About the quality and styling of the products which are supplied by Article.
  • Article's projected income for the next financial year.

Links:

Article on Instagram: @article

Apply for the Article Trade Program: Article Article: Article Linkedin: Article  Houzz: Article  Instagram: Article  Facebook: Article]]> 2921 no 300: 300th Episode - Big Happenings! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/300-300th-episode-big-happenings A very warm welcome to the three hundredth episode of A Well-Designed Business today- and happy birthday to us! February the 15th was the second birthday of the podcast and we are having our birthday party tonight (21st February) at Lefroy Brooks in New York City. Today is a really big day for the podcast and there's lots of awesome news too, so listen in now to find out more. It really takes a lot of effort from many people to get this podcast aired each week and I'm truly grateful to everyone involved! I'm especially grateful to you, my designer friends, who show up and listen in to the show every single week! Listen in today as I share some news and express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played their part in making this show so successful! Show highlights: A special mention of thanks to everyone that works so hard to get this show ready and aired! Special thanks to our featured sponsors- Kravet Inc and MyDoma Studio. How we know that Kravet is truly in the business of helping you to run a better business. Why I really love MyDoma Studio so much! A shout out to all our other sponsors. Thanks to all the wonderful guests who have been on the show! A really HUGE thank you to you, my designer friend, who listens to this show every week- It's because of you that I show up each week!. How my world has expanded tenfold because of my designer friends, who follow me, interact with me on Instagram and Facebook, and give me really valuable feedback. The changes that are happening with the show. Why we will be airing our shows just twice a week, as of next week. We will be adding more video content to the podcast as we go forward. How the Well-Designed Business Fan Club got started. The details about the first meeting of the fan club. You're welcome to join! How you can really benefit from joining the fan club. About my book- The Making Of A Well-Designed Business. It's finally out! The biggest lesson that's in my whole book! If are just hearing about this and you'd like to join us at our birthday party, there's still time for you to get in, so go on over to Party. To get our amazing newsletter every Wednesday, simply text 444 999 and enter the word designbiz. The first meeting of the Well-Designed Business Fan Club will be on Friday 23rd February at noon (eastern time). To join, email Deborah at hello@vegandesign.org and put LuAnn Fan Club in the subject line. My book, The Making Of A Well-Designed Business, is available in e-book form and in paperback. The paperback is $14.95 and the e-book is $7.99, but from 21st February until 28th February 2018 the e-book will only be $3.00- in honor of our 300th episode! Go to The Making Of A Well-Designed Business. Wed, 21 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A very warm welcome to the three hundredth episode of A Well-Designed Business today- and happy birthday to us! February the 15th was the second birthday of the podcast and we are having our birthday party tonight (21st February) at Lefroy Brooks in... A very warm welcome to the three hundredth episode of A Well-Designed Business today- and happy birthday to us! February the 15th was the second birthday of the podcast and we are having our birthday party tonight (21st February) at Lefroy Brooks in New York City. Today is a really big day for the podcast and there's lots of awesome news too, so listen in now to find out more. It really takes a lot of effort from many people to get this podcast aired each week and I'm truly grateful to everyone involved! I'm especially grateful to you, my designer friends, who show up and listen in to the show every single week! Listen in today as I share some news and express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played their part in making this show so successful! Show highlights: A special mention of thanks to everyone that works so hard to get this show ready and aired! Special thanks to our featured sponsors- Kravet Inc and MyDoma Studio. How we know that Kravet is truly in the business of helping you to run a better business. Why I really love MyDoma Studio so much! A shout out to all our other sponsors. Thanks to all the wonderful guests who have been on the show! A really HUGE thank you to you, my designer friend, who listens to this show every week- It's because of you that I show up each week!. How my world has expanded tenfold because of my designer friends, who follow me, interact with me on Instagram and Facebook, and give me really valuable feedback. The changes that are happening with the show. Why we will be airing our shows just twice a week, as of next week. We will be adding more video content to the podcast as we go forward. How the Well-Designed Business Fan Club got started. The details about the first meeting of the fan club. You're welcome to join! How you can really benefit from joining the fan club. About my book- The Making Of A Well-Designed Business. It's finally out! The biggest lesson that's in my whole book! If are just hearing about this and you'd like to join us at our birthday party, there's still time for you to get in, so go on over to Party. To get our amazing newsletter every Wednesday, simply text 444 999 and enter the word designbiz. The first meeting of the Well-Designed Business Fan Club will be on Friday 23rd February at noon (eastern time). To join, email Deborah at hello@vegandesign.org and put LuAnn Fan Club in the subject line. My book, The Making Of A Well-Designed Business, is available in e-book form and in paperback. The paperback is $14.95 and the e-book is $7.99, but from 21st February until 28th February 2018 the e-book will only be $3.00- in honor of our 300th episode! Go to The Making Of A Well-Designed Business. A very warm welcome to the three hundredth episode of A Well-Designed Business today- and happy birthday to us! February the 15th was the second birthday of the podcast and we are having our birthday party tonight (21st February) at Lefroy Brooks in New York City. Today is a really big day for the podcast and there's lots of awesome news too, so listen in now to find out more.

It really takes a lot of effort from many people to get this podcast aired each week and I'm truly grateful to everyone involved! I'm especially grateful to you, my designer friends, who show up and listen in to the show every single week! Listen in today as I share some news and express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played their part in making this show so successful!

Show highlights:

  • A special mention of thanks to everyone that works so hard to get this show ready and aired!
  • Special thanks to our featured sponsors- Kravet Inc and MyDoma Studio.
  • How we know that Kravet is truly in the business of helping you to run a better business.
  • Why I really love MyDoma Studio so much!
  • A shout out to all our other sponsors.
  • Thanks to all the wonderful guests who have been on the show!
  • A really HUGE thank you to you, my designer friend, who listens to this show every week- It's because of you that I show up each week!.
  • How my world has expanded tenfold because of my designer friends, who follow me, interact with me on Instagram and Facebook, and give me really valuable feedback.
  • The changes that are happening with the show.
  • Why we will be airing our shows just twice a week, as of next week.
  • We will be adding more video content to the podcast as we go forward.
  • How the Well-Designed Business Fan Club got started.
  • The details about the first meeting of the fan club. You're welcome to join!
  • How you can really benefit from joining the fan club.
  • About my book- The Making Of A Well-Designed Business. It's finally out!
  • The biggest lesson that's in my whole book!

If are just hearing about this and you'd like to join us at our birthday party, there's still time for you to get in, so go on over to Party.

To get our amazing newsletter every Wednesday, simply text 444 999 and enter the word designbiz.

The first meeting of the Well-Designed Business Fan Club will be on Friday 23rd February at noon (eastern time). To join, email Deborah at hello@vegandesign.org and put LuAnn Fan Club in the subject line.

My book, The Making Of A Well-Designed Business, is available in e-book form and in paperback. The paperback is $14.95 and the e-book is $7.99, but from 21st February until 28th February 2018 the e-book will only be $3.00- in honor of our 300th episode! Go to The Making Of A Well-Designed Business.

]]> 1246 no 299: Houzz Acquires Ivy- The Red Flags http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/299-houzz-acquires-ivy-the-red-flags The interior design industry was recently rocked with the news that Houzz.com acquired IvyMark for a reported $30 to $40 million dollars. There have been panel discussions on Facebook Live and other podcasters have addressed it on their shows as well. These discussions have covered, among other things, the motivations of both the Ivy team and of Houzz.com, the ramifications of the purchase to the interior designers who are using the IVY platform and the ripples this news is making through our industry.   I agree wholeheartedly that all of these discussions are important and valid and they have been well addressed. But today I want to address the lessons we can learn from this situation and talk about how and why it is so important for us as business owners to understand how Ivy and Houzz might have avoided some of this significant backlash from the design community. It begins and ends with you as a business owner, your conduct, your philosophy and your leadership. Mon, 19 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The interior design industry was recently rocked with the news that Houzz.com acquired IvyMark for a reported $30 to $40 million dollars. There have been panel discussions on Facebook Live and other podcasters have addressed it on their... The interior design industry was recently rocked with the news that Houzz.com acquired IvyMark for a reported $30 to $40 million dollars. There have been panel discussions on Facebook Live and other podcasters have addressed it on their shows as well. These discussions have covered, among other things, the motivations of both the Ivy team and of Houzz.com, the ramifications of the purchase to the interior designers who are using the IVY platform and the ripples this news is making through our industry.   I agree wholeheartedly that all of these discussions are important and valid and they have been well addressed. But today I want to address the lessons we can learn from this situation and talk about how and why it is so important for us as business owners to understand how Ivy and Houzz might have avoided some of this significant backlash from the design community. It begins and ends with you as a business owner, your conduct, your philosophy and your leadership. 3146 no 298: Rich Rogers - Why Interior Designers Should Know About Exterior Shades & Awnings http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/298-rich-rogers-why-interior-designers-should-know-about-exterior-shades-awnings Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have Rich Rogers as our guest and he is the sales manager for the exterior side of Window Works. Rich is someone who has really been making LuAnn's life a whole lot easier in many ways and for many years and he is a real asset to the team at Window Works, with his experience in the trade and his knowledge about product lines. On the show today he will be talking about awnings and discussing some awesome solutions to almost impossible situations. Listen in to find out more. Before coming to work at Window Works Rich was the senior regional manager for K E Dorosoil Awnings Inc., an Italian based company and the primary awning supplier that Window Works have used since 1985. They really provide an enormous range of outdoor shading solutions, with a slightly European, outdoor restaurant feeling. Listen in now to find out about a shady way of offering savvy solutions and making more money in your design business! Show highlights: Rich's thoughts on where designers tend to miss the boat with outdoor shading solutions for their clients. Understanding both the products and the solution. Creating amazing awnings for awkward spaces. The lasting quality of the products that Rich works with. The awnings are so awesome that people even take them with when they move house! Creating awareness about quality, unique awnings, and their features. Offering solutions using exterior products. Operating automated products with your smartphone. Automated products are not only functional, they're really beautiful too. Some high-end options for you to offer your clients. The featured 'Genius Project' and how this product line differs from others. The unbelievable size of the awning that was put onto Nomad Pizza in Princeton. Creating shady solutions at the Life Hotel. The benefits of starting out with the Genius range of products. Why you really need not be intimidated by this kind of product. Link: The Dorosol website: KE Outdoor Design The Window Works website: Window Works NJ Fri, 16 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have Rich Rogers as our guest and he is the sales manager for the exterior side of Window Works. Rich is someone who has really been making LuAnn's life a whole lot easier in many ways and for many years... Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have Rich Rogers as our guest and he is the sales manager for the exterior side of Window Works. Rich is someone who has really been making LuAnn's life a whole lot easier in many ways and for many years and he is a real asset to the team at Window Works, with his experience in the trade and his knowledge about product lines. On the show today he will be talking about awnings and discussing some awesome solutions to almost impossible situations. Listen in to find out more. Before coming to work at Window Works Rich was the senior regional manager for K E Dorosoil Awnings Inc., an Italian based company and the primary awning supplier that Window Works have used since 1985. They really provide an enormous range of outdoor shading solutions, with a slightly European, outdoor restaurant feeling. Listen in now to find out about a shady way of offering savvy solutions and making more money in your design business! Show highlights: Rich's thoughts on where designers tend to miss the boat with outdoor shading solutions for their clients. Understanding both the products and the solution. Creating amazing awnings for awkward spaces. The lasting quality of the products that Rich works with. The awnings are so awesome that people even take them with when they move house! Creating awareness about quality, unique awnings, and their features. Offering solutions using exterior products. Operating automated products with your smartphone. Automated products are not only functional, they're really beautiful too. Some high-end options for you to offer your clients. The featured 'Genius Project' and how this product line differs from others. The unbelievable size of the awning that was put onto Nomad Pizza in Princeton. Creating shady solutions at the Life Hotel. The benefits of starting out with the Genius range of products. Why you really need not be intimidated by this kind of product. Link: The Dorosol website: KE Outdoor Design The Window Works website: Window Works NJ Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have Rich Rogers as our guest and he is the sales manager for the exterior side of Window Works. Rich is someone who has really been making LuAnn's life a whole lot easier in many ways and for many years and he is a real asset to the team at Window Works, with his experience in the trade and his knowledge about product lines. On the show today he will be talking about awnings and discussing some awesome solutions to almost impossible situations. Listen in to find out more.

Before coming to work at Window Works Rich was the senior regional manager for K E Dorosoil Awnings Inc., an Italian based company and the primary awning supplier that Window Works have used since 1985. They really provide an enormous range of outdoor shading solutions, with a slightly European, outdoor restaurant feeling. Listen in now to find out about a shady way of offering savvy solutions and making more money in your design business!

Show highlights:

  • Rich's thoughts on where designers tend to miss the boat with outdoor shading solutions for their clients.
  • Understanding both the products and the solution.
  • Creating amazing awnings for awkward spaces.
  • The lasting quality of the products that Rich works with.
  • The awnings are so awesome that people even take them with when they move house!
  • Creating awareness about quality, unique awnings, and their features.
  • Offering solutions using exterior products.
  • Operating automated products with your smartphone.
  • Automated products are not only functional, they're really beautiful too.
  • Some high-end options for you to offer your clients.
  • The featured 'Genius Project' and how this product line differs from others.
  • The unbelievable size of the awning that was put onto Nomad Pizza in Princeton.
  • Creating shady solutions at the Life Hotel.
  • The benefits of starting out with the Genius range of products.
  • Why you really need not be intimidated by this kind of product.

Link:

The Dorosol website: KE Outdoor Design

The Window Works website: Window Works NJ

]]> 3580 no 297: Mikel Welch: Interior Design, TV, Self Made Man http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/297-mikel-welch-interior-design-tv-self-made-man Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Mikel Welch, of Mikel Welch Designs, as our guest on the show and today we pull back the curtain to find out what the lifestyle of a celebrity interior designer is really all about. And guess what? It turns out it's not at all the way we think it is. It involves a lot of risk-taking situations, unforeseen bumps in the road, sleeping on sofas at other people's houses and even asking friends for some help. Mikel, who is a really hard worker with a very clear vision for himself, grew up in Southfield Michigan. Today, he works as an on-air personality and design expert for Pickler and Ben TV show and he is also the brand ambassador to Inspire Closets. All this, in addition to running his own interior design projects. On the show today Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel. Mikel worked as a set designer for the Steve Harvey Show in 2012, where he created lavish green rooms for prominent people, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Joan Rivers, Halle Berry and Tyler Perry, just to name a few. In 2012, before joining the Steve Harvey Show, he was on the HGTV Design Star's season seven, where he finished as a top-four contender. Before that, in 2011, he was behind the camera, as a set designer for Style Network's hit reality show, Jerseylicious. He has appeared as a design expert on WGN TV, CBS-TV's The Talk and he has made special guest appearances on behalf of West Elm, CB2 and Pottery Barn. His designs have been featured in The Huffington Post, HGTV Magazine, Essence Magazine, Chicago's NBC-TV, HGTV's Shop This Room and The Fabulist on E! Network and Splash Magazine. Mikel was also recently profiled in CS Magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors and Crain's Chicago Business. It all sounds so exciting and Mikel really sounds like a lucky guy, doesn't he? Listen in today, as we pick his incredible career apart and find out the truth behind how it all really happened! Show highlights: What Mikel had in mind, and how things fell into place for him when he made the move to New York from Atlanta. What has happened as a result of Mikel donating his time and services. How Mikel used Craig's List to start his career as an interior designer. The unglamorous start to his New York life. Creating unbelievable opportunities by working strategically for free. Getting set design experience while building a portfolio. Mikel's first real experience of a reality show. What he had to go through working on Jerseylicious. Pushing through the fear and just doing it! The benefits of boot-camp with a celebrity coach. The challenges of working on television. The really lucky break with Steve Harvey. Why Steve Harvey liked and helped Mikel. Mikel's way of working smarter, not harder! An awesome new opportunity at Inspired Closets. Taking the right kind of risks. Resources:  A soon as the new Kravet website goes live, you can use the promo code AWDB10, for a 10% discount on any Kravet fabric, trim and wall covering order. Wed, 14 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Mikel Welch, of Mikel Welch Designs, as our guest on the show and today we pull back the curtain to find out what the lifestyle of a celebrity interior designer is really all about. And... Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Mikel Welch, of Mikel Welch Designs, as our guest on the show and today we pull back the curtain to find out what the lifestyle of a celebrity interior designer is really all about. And guess what? It turns out it's not at all the way we think it is. It involves a lot of risk-taking situations, unforeseen bumps in the road, sleeping on sofas at other people's houses and even asking friends for some help. Mikel, who is a really hard worker with a very clear vision for himself, grew up in Southfield Michigan. Today, he works as an on-air personality and design expert for Pickler and Ben TV show and he is also the brand ambassador to Inspire Closets. All this, in addition to running his own interior design projects. On the show today Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel. Mikel worked as a set designer for the Steve Harvey Show in 2012, where he created lavish green rooms for prominent people, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Joan Rivers, Halle Berry and Tyler Perry, just to name a few. In 2012, before joining the Steve Harvey Show, he was on the HGTV Design Star's season seven, where he finished as a top-four contender. Before that, in 2011, he was behind the camera, as a set designer for Style Network's hit reality show, Jerseylicious. He has appeared as a design expert on WGN TV, CBS-TV's The Talk and he has made special guest appearances on behalf of West Elm, CB2 and Pottery Barn. His designs have been featured in The Huffington Post, HGTV Magazine, Essence Magazine, Chicago's NBC-TV, HGTV's Shop This Room and The Fabulist on E! Network and Splash Magazine. Mikel was also recently profiled in CS Magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors and Crain's Chicago Business. It all sounds so exciting and Mikel really sounds like a lucky guy, doesn't he? Listen in today, as we pick his incredible career apart and find out the truth behind how it all really happened! Show highlights: What Mikel had in mind, and how things fell into place for him when he made the move to New York from Atlanta. What has happened as a result of Mikel donating his time and services. How Mikel used Craig's List to start his career as an interior designer. The unglamorous start to his New York life. Creating unbelievable opportunities by working strategically for free. Getting set design experience while building a portfolio. Mikel's first real experience of a reality show. What he had to go through working on Jerseylicious. Pushing through the fear and just doing it! The benefits of boot-camp with a celebrity coach. The challenges of working on television. The really lucky break with Steve Harvey. Why Steve Harvey liked and helped Mikel. Mikel's way of working smarter, not harder! An awesome new opportunity at Inspired Closets. Taking the right kind of risks. Resources:  A soon as the new Kravet website goes live, you can use the promo code AWDB10, for a 10% discount on any Kravet fabric, trim and wall covering order. Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! We have Mikel Welch, of Mikel Welch Designs, as our guest on the show and today we pull back the curtain to find out what the lifestyle of a celebrity interior designer is really all about. And guess what? It turns out it's not at all the way we think it is. It involves a lot of risk-taking situations, unforeseen bumps in the road, sleeping on sofas at other people's houses and even asking friends for some help. Mikel, who is a really hard worker with a very clear vision for himself, grew up in Southfield Michigan. Today, he works as an on-air personality and design expert for Pickler and Ben TV show and he is also the brand ambassador to Inspire Closets. All this, in addition to running his own interior design projects. On the show today Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel.

Mikel worked as a set designer for the Steve Harvey Show in 2012, where he created lavish green rooms for prominent people, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Joan Rivers, Halle Berry and Tyler Perry, just to name a few. In 2012, before joining the Steve Harvey Show, he was on the HGTV Design Star's season seven, where he finished as a top-four contender. Before that, in 2011, he was behind the camera, as a set designer for Style Network's hit reality show, Jerseylicious. He has appeared as a design expert on WGN TV, CBS-TV's The Talk and he has made special guest appearances on behalf of West Elm, CB2 and Pottery Barn. His designs have been featured in The Huffington Post, HGTV Magazine, Essence Magazine, Chicago's NBC-TV, HGTV's Shop This Room and The Fabulist on E! Network and Splash Magazine. Mikel was also recently profiled in CS Magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors and Crain's Chicago Business. It all sounds so exciting and Mikel really sounds like a lucky guy, doesn't he? Listen in today, as we pick his incredible career apart and find out the truth behind how it all really happened!

Show highlights:

  • What Mikel had in mind, and how things fell into place for him when he made the move to New York from Atlanta.
  • What has happened as a result of Mikel donating his time and services.
  • How Mikel used Craig's List to start his career as an interior designer.
  • The unglamorous start to his New York life.
  • Creating unbelievable opportunities by working strategically for free.
  • Getting set design experience while building a portfolio.
  • Mikel's first real experience of a reality show.
  • What he had to go through working on Jerseylicious.
  • Pushing through the fear and just doing it!
  • The benefits of boot-camp with a celebrity coach.
  • The challenges of working on television.
  • The really lucky break with Steve Harvey.
  • Why Steve Harvey liked and helped Mikel.
  • Mikel's way of working smarter, not harder!
  • An awesome new opportunity at Inspired Closets.
  • Taking the right kind of risks.

Resources: 

A soon as the new Kravet website goes live, you can use the promo code AWDB10, for a 10% discount on any Kravet fabric, trim and wall covering order.

]]> 5028 no 296: Ruthie Staalsen - Find Your Mojo & Your Designer Bestie at an Industry Conference http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/296-ruthie-staalsen-find-your-mojo-your-designer-bestie-at-an-industry-conference Welcome to today's show! We have Ruthie Staalsen with us today and she's someone who is really loved by many! Ruthie operates out of the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas, she has had more than fourteen years of experience as a designer and she's also on the board of the Design Blogger's Conference. Ruthie focuses on making homes look collected rather than decorated and there is a European flair to her personal design style- with an eclectic twist. She views her privilege of having had the opportunity to experience many different lifestyles as the greatest gift of her childhood. Listen in today to hear our awesome conversation with Ruthie about the value of mentorship, the value of attending conferences and Ruthie's way of running her business. Ruthie was born and raised overseas  and many of her influences come from Europe, Africa and Central and South America. She is an internationally published interior designer and she has built her business from the ground up. She was awarded the 2016 Designer Of The Year from the National Interior Design Society for a kitchen renovation project and she was nominated as one of the top fifteen decorators in Dallas. Her work has been published in Elite Monde- a lifestyle and fashion magazine in Dubai and also in Traditional Home Magazine Great Kitchens. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The incredible kind of connections that can be made with others at the Design Blogger's Conference. Ruthie's daunting first experience of a Design Blogger's Conference, about seven years ago. The way that your business will benefit from your attending conferences. Things that will keep you going and really spur you on with your business. Ruthie's awesome relationship with her mentee, Cheryl Luckett. (Episode #291) How you can really benefit from being a mentor. Some of the things that newbie designers tend to struggle with. Ruthie's take on charging the right fee, as a new designer. What happened when Ruthie started to hire people to help her. The huge responsibility- and benefits of hiring new people. Some interesting things about the way that Ruthie has set her business up. Ruthie's Away For The Day design service. Mistakes will happen- just get up and carry on! Living a really purposeful life as a designer. Ruthie's personal approach to decorating people's homes. How Ruthie finds the very best vendors to work with. How Ruthie really manages to express her authentic self through her blog.  Links: Her website and social: https://www.ruthiestaalsen.com Facebook Ruthie Designer Instagram : Ruthie Designer Linkedin : Interiors Twitter : Ruthie Designer Youtube : Ruthie Staalsen To join us at our birthday party go to the RSVP at Luann Nigara Party. Mon, 12 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Ruthie Staalsen with us today and she's someone who is really loved by many! Ruthie operates out of the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas, she has had more than fourteen years of experience as a designer and she's also... Welcome to today's show! We have Ruthie Staalsen with us today and she's someone who is really loved by many! Ruthie operates out of the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas, she has had more than fourteen years of experience as a designer and she's also on the board of the Design Blogger's Conference. Ruthie focuses on making homes look collected rather than decorated and there is a European flair to her personal design style- with an eclectic twist. She views her privilege of having had the opportunity to experience many different lifestyles as the greatest gift of her childhood. Listen in today to hear our awesome conversation with Ruthie about the value of mentorship, the value of attending conferences and Ruthie's way of running her business. Ruthie was born and raised overseas  and many of her influences come from Europe, Africa and Central and South America. She is an internationally published interior designer and she has built her business from the ground up. She was awarded the 2016 Designer Of The Year from the National Interior Design Society for a kitchen renovation project and she was nominated as one of the top fifteen decorators in Dallas. Her work has been published in Elite Monde- a lifestyle and fashion magazine in Dubai and also in Traditional Home Magazine Great Kitchens. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: The incredible kind of connections that can be made with others at the Design Blogger's Conference. Ruthie's daunting first experience of a Design Blogger's Conference, about seven years ago. The way that your business will benefit from your attending conferences. Things that will keep you going and really spur you on with your business. Ruthie's awesome relationship with her mentee, Cheryl Luckett. (Episode #291) How you can really benefit from being a mentor. Some of the things that newbie designers tend to struggle with. Ruthie's take on charging the right fee, as a new designer. What happened when Ruthie started to hire people to help her. The huge responsibility- and benefits of hiring new people. Some interesting things about the way that Ruthie has set her business up. Ruthie's Away For The Day design service. Mistakes will happen- just get up and carry on! Living a really purposeful life as a designer. Ruthie's personal approach to decorating people's homes. How Ruthie finds the very best vendors to work with. How Ruthie really manages to express her authentic self through her blog.  Links: Her website and social: https://www.ruthiestaalsen.com Facebook Ruthie Designer Instagram : Ruthie Designer Linkedin : Interiors Twitter : Ruthie Designer Youtube : Ruthie Staalsen To join us at our birthday party go to the RSVP at Luann Nigara Party. Welcome to today's show! We have Ruthie Staalsen with us today and she's someone who is really loved by many! Ruthie operates out of the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas, she has had more than fourteen years of experience as a designer and she's also on the board of the Design Blogger's Conference. Ruthie focuses on making homes look collected rather than decorated and there is a European flair to her personal design style- with an eclectic twist. She views her privilege of having had the opportunity to experience many different lifestyles as the greatest gift of her childhood. Listen in today to hear our awesome conversation with Ruthie about the value of mentorship, the value of attending conferences and Ruthie's way of running her business.

Ruthie was born and raised overseas  and many of her influences come from Europe, Africa and Central and South America. She is an internationally published interior designer and she has built her business from the ground up. She was awarded the 2016 Designer Of The Year from the National Interior Design Society for a kitchen renovation project and she was nominated as one of the top fifteen decorators in Dallas. Her work has been published in Elite Monde- a lifestyle and fashion magazine in Dubai and also in Traditional Home Magazine Great Kitchens. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • The incredible kind of connections that can be made with others at the Design Blogger's Conference.
  • Ruthie's daunting first experience of a Design Blogger's Conference, about seven years ago.
  • The way that your business will benefit from your attending conferences.
  • Things that will keep you going and really spur you on with your business.
  • Ruthie's awesome relationship with her mentee, Cheryl Luckett. (Episode #291)
  • How you can really benefit from being a mentor.
  • Some of the things that newbie designers tend to struggle with.
  • Ruthie's take on charging the right fee, as a new designer.
  • What happened when Ruthie started to hire people to help her.
  • The huge responsibility- and benefits of hiring new people.
  • Some interesting things about the way that Ruthie has set her business up.
  • Ruthie's Away For The Day design service.
  • Mistakes will happen- just get up and carry on!
  • Living a really purposeful life as a designer.
  • Ruthie's personal approach to decorating people's homes.
  • How Ruthie finds the very best vendors to work with.
  • How Ruthie really manages to express her authentic self through her blog.

 Links:

Her website and social: https://www.ruthiestaalsen.com Facebook Ruthie Designer Instagram : Ruthie Designer Linkedin : Interiors Twitter : Ruthie Designer Youtube : Ruthie Staalsen

To join us at our birthday party go to the RSVP at Luann Nigara Party.

]]> 4581 no 295: Successful Relationships With Vendors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/295-successful-relationships-with-vendors Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! There have been perhaps a dozen times in the last two years that someone has suggested to LuAnn that she does a show about vendors and what it's like working with them. Then, something quite incredible happened in a Facebook group recently, where a vendor spoke out very directly to a particular designer about his experience with other designers. This brought about mixed reactions from designers in the Facebook group. Some were incensed at his misdirected wrath, saying that it was ridiculous, while others felt it was better to just walk away. LuAnn's opinion, however, was that this was really a vendor to hang on to for dear life, because although he had been both blunt and less than politically correct, he was honest without being mean, cutting or personalizing his opinion- really epitomizing what it is that vendors have to go through. Listen in today, to find out what LuAnn has to tell you about how designers are directly affected by whatever their vendors are going through at that time. For the last two years on this podcast, LuAnn has championed you, as designers, standing in your space and helping you to teach your clients how to do business with you. So when the vendor stands in their own space and wants to teach you how to do business with them, you really cannot take offense to that, now can you? Listen in today and learn as LuAnn explains how to work with your vendor and also, how you can express your needs to your client about how you want them to work with you. Show highlights: LuAnn reads the Facebook post from the very straightforward vendor. Ways that you can learn to think from the point of view of the vendor. The difference between your relationship with your client and the relationship that your vendor has with you. The kinds of difficulties that vendors tend to have and how they usually deal with them when they are not yet standing firmly in their own space. Why it's actually easier for a vendor to have “the hard conversation” upfront- even at the risk of losing the whole project. What Lee Cockerell, the senior vice president of Disney World, had to say in episode #222 about doing hard things. Becoming empowered, setting boundaries and teaching your clients how to do business with you. Learning from your mistakes- without throwing your vendor under the bus. What inevitably ends up happening to you when you try to blame your vendor. It's really all about very good communication. Some great tips for working really well with your vendors. Protecting your vendors from information overload. The benefits of using a project management software like MyDoma Studio. Really valuing the kind of vendor that makes it clear to you how to work successfully with them. Giving your vendor the benefit of the doubt.  Links: To be on our email list: Text the number 444999 and enter the word designbiz. To come to our birthday party, generously hosted by Lefroy Brooks, on Wednesday, February 21st go to Luann Nigara Party  On Monday, February 19th Blanch Garcia will be doing a Lunch And Learn at out New Jersey showroom on running your design business. Fri, 09 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! There have been perhaps a dozen times in the last two years that someone has suggested to LuAnn that she does a show about vendors and what it's like working with them. Then, something quite incredible... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! There have been perhaps a dozen times in the last two years that someone has suggested to LuAnn that she does a show about vendors and what it's like working with them. Then, something quite incredible happened in a Facebook group recently, where a vendor spoke out very directly to a particular designer about his experience with other designers. This brought about mixed reactions from designers in the Facebook group. Some were incensed at his misdirected wrath, saying that it was ridiculous, while others felt it was better to just walk away. LuAnn's opinion, however, was that this was really a vendor to hang on to for dear life, because although he had been both blunt and less than politically correct, he was honest without being mean, cutting or personalizing his opinion- really epitomizing what it is that vendors have to go through. Listen in today, to find out what LuAnn has to tell you about how designers are directly affected by whatever their vendors are going through at that time. For the last two years on this podcast, LuAnn has championed you, as designers, standing in your space and helping you to teach your clients how to do business with you. So when the vendor stands in their own space and wants to teach you how to do business with them, you really cannot take offense to that, now can you? Listen in today and learn as LuAnn explains how to work with your vendor and also, how you can express your needs to your client about how you want them to work with you. Show highlights: LuAnn reads the Facebook post from the very straightforward vendor. Ways that you can learn to think from the point of view of the vendor. The difference between your relationship with your client and the relationship that your vendor has with you. The kinds of difficulties that vendors tend to have and how they usually deal with them when they are not yet standing firmly in their own space. Why it's actually easier for a vendor to have “the hard conversation” upfront- even at the risk of losing the whole project. What Lee Cockerell, the senior vice president of Disney World, had to say in episode #222 about doing hard things. Becoming empowered, setting boundaries and teaching your clients how to do business with you. Learning from your mistakes- without throwing your vendor under the bus. What inevitably ends up happening to you when you try to blame your vendor. It's really all about very good communication. Some great tips for working really well with your vendors. Protecting your vendors from information overload. The benefits of using a project management software like MyDoma Studio. Really valuing the kind of vendor that makes it clear to you how to work successfully with them. Giving your vendor the benefit of the doubt.  Links: To be on our email list: Text the number 444999 and enter the word designbiz. To come to our birthday party, generously hosted by Lefroy Brooks, on Wednesday, February 21st go to Luann Nigara Party  On Monday, February 19th Blanch Garcia will be doing a Lunch And Learn at out New Jersey showroom on running your design business. Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! There have been perhaps a dozen times in the last two years that someone has suggested to LuAnn that she does a show about vendors and what it's like working with them. Then, something quite incredible happened in a Facebook group recently, where a vendor spoke out very directly to a particular designer about his experience with other designers. This brought about mixed reactions from designers in the Facebook group. Some were incensed at his misdirected wrath, saying that it was ridiculous, while others felt it was better to just walk away. LuAnn's opinion, however, was that this was really a vendor to hang on to for dear life, because although he had been both blunt and less than politically correct, he was honest without being mean, cutting or personalizing his opinion- really epitomizing what it is that vendors have to go through. Listen in today, to find out what LuAnn has to tell you about how designers are directly affected by whatever their vendors are going through at that time.

For the last two years on this podcast, LuAnn has championed you, as designers, standing in your space and helping you to teach your clients how to do business with you. So when the vendor stands in their own space and wants to teach you how to do business with them, you really cannot take offense to that, now can you? Listen in today and learn as LuAnn explains how to work with your vendor and also, how you can express your needs to your client about how you want them to work with you.

Show highlights:

  • LuAnn reads the Facebook post from the very straightforward vendor.
  • Ways that you can learn to think from the point of view of the vendor.
  • The difference between your relationship with your client and the relationship that your vendor has with you.
  • The kinds of difficulties that vendors tend to have and how they usually deal with them when they are not yet standing firmly in their own space.
  • Why it's actually easier for a vendor to have “the hard conversation” upfront- even at the risk of losing the whole project.
  • What Lee Cockerell, the senior vice president of Disney World, had to say in episode #222 about doing hard things.
  • Becoming empowered, setting boundaries and teaching your clients how to do business with you.
  • Learning from your mistakes- without throwing your vendor under the bus.
  • What inevitably ends up happening to you when you try to blame your vendor.
  • It's really all about very good communication.
  • Some great tips for working really well with your vendors.
  • Protecting your vendors from information overload.
  • The benefits of using a project management software like MyDoma Studio.
  • Really valuing the kind of vendor that makes it clear to you how to work successfully with them.
  • Giving your vendor the benefit of the doubt. 

Links:

To be on our email list: Text the number 444999 and enter the word designbiz.

To come to our birthday party, generously hosted by Lefroy Brooks, on Wednesday, February 21st go to Luann Nigara Party 

On Monday, February 19th Blanch Garcia will be doing a Lunch And Learn at out New Jersey showroom on running your design business.

]]> 2869 no 294: 6 Collections of A Well-Designed Business Podcast To Jumpstart Your Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/294-6-collections-of-a-well-designed-business-podcast-to-jumpstart-your-business If you are facing new challenges in your interior design business or are just starting out with the podcast, then you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the information the Well Designed Business Podcast has accumulated over the past two years. If you are in need of a jumping off point, then look no further than this episode! It’s a solo show today as I organize and highlight the episodes that have made a real impact on me and the audience. The show is nearing 300 episodes, and that means if you are just now joining the party that you have quite a bit of info to sift through. Luckily, I am giving you a jumping off point so that the party can begin right away. I have gathered together the best of the best into 5 different categories. You’ll hear my recommendations for practical business advice, building up a pipeline, understanding your YOU and your ideal client, creative inspiration, and the quick starter designers that have inspired me. If you are listening to the podcast, you are the kind of person who will work hard and be successful in your design business. I am celebrating the success of the show by helping you on that road to success. Consider this episode the fast track! If you are just now joining us, welcome! If you are a longtime listener, I sincerely hope you enjoy re-listening to these episodes. You are on the path to success just by showing up for your business today. More in this episode: Hear my vision for the Well Designed Business Archives. For practical business advice, listen to episodes 2, 36, 45, 68, 180, 233*. Need help building your pipeline? Check out episodes 40, 245, 266 To understand your YOU, your ideal client, head over to episodes 15, 256, 22, 26, 125. Several of you have listened to episode 192 multiple times! It’s so full of good info. Time to dig into episodes for creative inspiration! Try episodes 21, 18, 165, 169, 184. These designers really blew me out of the water. Here are your best places for Quick Starts episodes—167, 179, 211, 203. I want you at the podcast birthday party! Resources: info@luannnigara luannnigara.com/party Iwce-vision.com Your Business in Words Wed, 07 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you are facing new challenges in your interior design business or are just starting out with the podcast, then you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the information the Well Designed Business Podcast has accumulated over the past two years. If you... If you are facing new challenges in your interior design business or are just starting out with the podcast, then you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the information the Well Designed Business Podcast has accumulated over the past two years. If you are in need of a jumping off point, then look no further than this episode! It’s a solo show today as I organize and highlight the episodes that have made a real impact on me and the audience. The show is nearing 300 episodes, and that means if you are just now joining the party that you have quite a bit of info to sift through. Luckily, I am giving you a jumping off point so that the party can begin right away. I have gathered together the best of the best into 5 different categories. You’ll hear my recommendations for practical business advice, building up a pipeline, understanding your YOU and your ideal client, creative inspiration, and the quick starter designers that have inspired me. If you are listening to the podcast, you are the kind of person who will work hard and be successful in your design business. I am celebrating the success of the show by helping you on that road to success. Consider this episode the fast track! If you are just now joining us, welcome! If you are a longtime listener, I sincerely hope you enjoy re-listening to these episodes. You are on the path to success just by showing up for your business today. More in this episode: Hear my vision for the Well Designed Business Archives. For practical business advice, listen to episodes 2, 36, 45, 68, 180, 233*. Need help building your pipeline? Check out episodes 40, 245, 266 To understand your YOU, your ideal client, head over to episodes 15, 256, 22, 26, 125. Several of you have listened to episode 192 multiple times! It’s so full of good info. Time to dig into episodes for creative inspiration! Try episodes 21, 18, 165, 169, 184. These designers really blew me out of the water. Here are your best places for Quick Starts episodes—167, 179, 211, 203. I want you at the podcast birthday party! Resources: info@luannnigara luannnigara.com/party Iwce-vision.com Your Business in Words If you are facing new challenges in your interior design business or are just starting out with the podcast, then you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the information the Well Designed Business Podcast has accumulated over the past two years. If you are in need of a jumping off point, then look no further than this episode! It’s a solo show today as I organize and highlight the episodes that have made a real impact on me and the audience. The show is nearing 300 episodes, and that means if you are just now joining the party that you have quite a bit of info to sift through. Luckily, I am giving you a jumping off point so that the party can begin right away.

I have gathered together the best of the best into 5 different categories. You’ll hear my recommendations for practical business advice, building up a pipeline, understanding your YOU and your ideal client, creative inspiration, and the quick starter designers that have inspired me. If you are listening to the podcast, you are the kind of person who will work hard and be successful in your design business. I am celebrating the success of the show by helping you on that road to success. Consider this episode the fast track!

If you are just now joining us, welcome! If you are a longtime listener, I sincerely hope you enjoy re-listening to these episodes. You are on the path to success just by showing up for your business today.

More in this episode:

  • Hear my vision for the Well Designed Business Archives.
  • For practical business advice, listen to episodes 2, 36, 45, 68, 180, 233*.
  • Need help building your pipeline? Check out episodes 40, 245, 266
  • To understand your YOU, your ideal client, head over to episodes 15, 256, 22, 26, 125.
  • Several of you have listened to episode 192 multiple times! It’s so full of good info.
  • Time to dig into episodes for creative inspiration! Try episodes 21, 18, 165, 169, 184.
  • These designers really blew me out of the water. Here are your best places for Quick Starts episodes—167, 179, 211, 203.
  • I want you at the podcast birthday party!

Resources:

info@luannnigara

luannnigara.com/party

Iwce-vision.com

Your Business in Words

]]> 3214 no 293: Jana Platina Phipps, The Trim Queen: Finding Your Niche http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/293-jana-platina-phipps-the-trim-queen-finding-your-niche Today we have Jana Platina Phipps, affectionately known as the “Trim Queen” by her clients, as our guest on the show. Jana and LuAnn met each other in person last year at the IWCE in Charlotte, where they were both speaking, and this year Jana will be speaking again at the IWCE in Tampa Florida. Jana is an embellishment expert, a designer and she's also an agent for Classical Elements. She develops custom trimmings for NYC-based fashion companies and she also designs made-to-order home and fashion accessories, using trimmings and vintage jewelry. Jana teaches other people her technique of Trim Alchemy, which involves turning something ordinary into something really extraordinary, using trimmings to express their personal creativity. Listen in to find out more about what Jana will be doing at the IWCE this year.              Jana started a blog in 2013 and she uses her social media channels to keep an account of how the design community uses trimmings creatively. She lectures at The New York School of Interior Design, Continuing Education Seminars and on Webinars to the interior design community, drawing on her knowledge of the history of passementerie and also on her hands-on experience with fabrication. She is a regular contributor to WF Vision and Designers Today Magazines, and Universal Furniture’s Smartstuff Social Station blog. She also conducts DIY workshops and stages a Trim Alchemy Show at the Country Living Fairs across the country. Jana is planning a Trim Queen Maker Tour of Venice Italy for Spring 2018. Listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: Jana talks about what she has going on at the IWCE this year. How Jana's college education has come into play for her in her career. The details of what's happening with Jana's workshops in the Construction Zone at the IWCE this year. Why Jana really loves going to the IWCE! What you, as an interior designer, can gain from the community on the Construction Zone floor at the IWCE. About Jana's work with Classical Elements. How the blog post- Trim Queen came about, and the mission behind it. The new avenue of creativity and business that Jana has created with Trim Queen. The power of getting great feedback. The fine line between giving people advice and being taken advantage of. About Jana's really helpful peer mentoring group. How Jana moved Trim Queen into becoming a really viable business. Jana's really intentional way of starting out with doing video. The magic of developing your business through the creative process. Something that has really helped Jana with her creative process this year. All about Jana's Trim Queen Maker Tour in Venice Italy next year. What Jana's awesome concept of maker tourism is all about. What's coming up with Jana and the WCAA, out of Connecticut. All the info will be on the events page of Jana's website. (trimqueen.com) Resources: Trim Queen Instagram Facebook Twitter Youtube Pinterest Linkedin Mon, 05 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Jana Platina Phipps, affectionately known as the “Trim Queen” by her clients, as our guest on the show. Jana and LuAnn met each other in person last year at the IWCE in Charlotte, where they were both speaking, and this year Jana... Today we have Jana Platina Phipps, affectionately known as the “Trim Queen” by her clients, as our guest on the show. Jana and LuAnn met each other in person last year at the IWCE in Charlotte, where they were both speaking, and this year Jana will be speaking again at the IWCE in Tampa Florida. Jana is an embellishment expert, a designer and she's also an agent for Classical Elements. She develops custom trimmings for NYC-based fashion companies and she also designs made-to-order home and fashion accessories, using trimmings and vintage jewelry. Jana teaches other people her technique of Trim Alchemy, which involves turning something ordinary into something really extraordinary, using trimmings to express their personal creativity. Listen in to find out more about what Jana will be doing at the IWCE this year.              Jana started a blog in 2013 and she uses her social media channels to keep an account of how the design community uses trimmings creatively. She lectures at The New York School of Interior Design, Continuing Education Seminars and on Webinars to the interior design community, drawing on her knowledge of the history of passementerie and also on her hands-on experience with fabrication. She is a regular contributor to WF Vision and Designers Today Magazines, and Universal Furniture’s Smartstuff Social Station blog. She also conducts DIY workshops and stages a Trim Alchemy Show at the Country Living Fairs across the country. Jana is planning a Trim Queen Maker Tour of Venice Italy for Spring 2018. Listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on today's show. Show highlights: Jana talks about what she has going on at the IWCE this year. How Jana's college education has come into play for her in her career. The details of what's happening with Jana's workshops in the Construction Zone at the IWCE this year. Why Jana really loves going to the IWCE! What you, as an interior designer, can gain from the community on the Construction Zone floor at the IWCE. About Jana's work with Classical Elements. How the blog post- Trim Queen came about, and the mission behind it. The new avenue of creativity and business that Jana has created with Trim Queen. The power of getting great feedback. The fine line between giving people advice and being taken advantage of. About Jana's really helpful peer mentoring group. How Jana moved Trim Queen into becoming a really viable business. Jana's really intentional way of starting out with doing video. The magic of developing your business through the creative process. Something that has really helped Jana with her creative process this year. All about Jana's Trim Queen Maker Tour in Venice Italy next year. What Jana's awesome concept of maker tourism is all about. What's coming up with Jana and the WCAA, out of Connecticut. All the info will be on the events page of Jana's website. (trimqueen.com) Resources: Trim Queen Instagram Facebook Twitter Youtube Pinterest Linkedin Today we have Jana Platina Phipps, affectionately known as the “Trim Queen” by her clients, as our guest on the show. Jana and LuAnn met each other in person last year at the IWCE in Charlotte, where they were both speaking, and this year Jana will be speaking again at the IWCE in Tampa Florida. Jana is an embellishment expert, a designer and she's also an agent for Classical Elements. She develops custom trimmings for NYC-based fashion companies and she also designs made-to-order home and fashion accessories, using trimmings and vintage jewelry. Jana teaches other people her technique of Trim Alchemy, which involves turning something ordinary into something really extraordinary, using trimmings to express their personal creativity. Listen in to find out more about what Jana will be doing at the IWCE this year.             

Jana started a blog in 2013 and she uses her social media channels to keep an account of how the design community uses trimmings creatively. She lectures at The New York School of Interior Design, Continuing Education Seminars and on Webinars to the interior design community, drawing on her knowledge of the history of passementerie and also on her hands-on experience with fabrication. She is a regular contributor to WF Vision and Designers Today Magazines, and Universal Furniture’s Smartstuff Social Station blog. She also conducts DIY workshops and stages a Trim Alchemy Show at the Country Living Fairs across the country. Jana is planning a Trim Queen Maker Tour of Venice Italy for Spring 2018. Listen in now to find out what she has to share with you on today's show.

Show highlights:

  • Jana talks about what she has going on at the IWCE this year.
  • How Jana's college education has come into play for her in her career.
  • The details of what's happening with Jana's workshops in the Construction Zone at the IWCE this year.
  • Why Jana really loves going to the IWCE!
  • What you, as an interior designer, can gain from the community on the Construction Zone floor at the IWCE.
  • About Jana's work with Classical Elements.
  • How the blog post- Trim Queen came about, and the mission behind it.
  • The new avenue of creativity and business that Jana has created with Trim Queen.
  • The power of getting great feedback.
  • The fine line between giving people advice and being taken advantage of.
  • About Jana's really helpful peer mentoring group.
  • How Jana moved Trim Queen into becoming a really viable business.
  • Jana's really intentional way of starting out with doing video.
  • The magic of developing your business through the creative process.
  • Something that has really helped Jana with her creative process this year.
  • All about Jana's Trim Queen Maker Tour in Venice Italy next year.
  • What Jana's awesome concept of maker tourism is all about.
  • What's coming up with Jana and the WCAA, out of Connecticut. All the info will be on the events page of Jana's website. (trimqueen.com)

Resources:

Trim Queen

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

Youtube

Pinterest

Linkedin

]]> 3147 no 292: Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser - How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/292-power-talk-friday-summer-tannhauser-how-to-leverage-pinterest-for-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I’m excited to introduce you to Summer Tannhauser, and I’m eager to hear what she can teach us about using Pinterest to grow an interior design business. She’s a Pinterest expert, a business coach, Mastermind leader, and a business/marketing mentor to female entrepreneurs who want to create an impact online through their personal brand and business. She has some really cool things going on now, like her Live More, Work Less business model, and blog series. We have touched on the world of Pinterest in earlier episodes: Ep. 209 with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of Savour Partnership, and Ep. 223 with Allison Fannin. Today’s episode focuses on the ins and outs of this important platform and pulls back the curtain on Pinterest to show how web designers can use it to build our brand. Show highlights: Why Pinterest is a vehicle for growing your business locally Summer’s advice about using keywords about your location to draw people in and showcase your brand Setting up your Pinterest account and profile---Do’s and Don’t’s How to set up “rich pins” and validate them How rich pins bring people back to your website Start off with your business name in your profile, use keywords, location, your website, and a description of your business Have a minimum of 15 boards to show that your profile is complete Creating board titles using important keywords Going from a personal to business account: how to clean up or delete existing boards that don’t fit or promote your business How to fill your boards with a combination of other people’s boards and your own content Why some pins should be on multiple boards See what people are looking for to get great ideas for blog topics Change your perspective and think of Pinterest as a search engine and NOT a social media platform Summer’s advice for pinning people’s pins and following accounts to increase your engagement, if you have less than 100 followers “The first step is to make sure your website is updated and presents your brand well. There is no sense spending hours on Pinterest driving people to a website that’s a hot mess.” Focus more on your state name than city name, but include local town names on your profile and on boards Your Pinterest content will have people engaging long-term over time, so don’t focus on short-term events and happenings Getting consistent and active on Pinterest: Consider investing in a scheduling program so it can pin for you on a consistent basis Which platform is best for interior designers if you have limited time? Summer’s Live More, Work Less blog series, highlighting entrepreneurs who are making it work Resources: Her website: Summer Tannhauser Her free course: Free Pin Course Summer’s social media: Twitter - @summerktann Facebook Pinterest Instagram Tail Wind App (To use for Pinterest and social media scheduling) Fri, 02 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I’m excited to introduce you to Summer Tannhauser, and I’m eager to hear what she can teach us about using Pinterest to grow an interior design business. She’s a Pinterest expert, a business coach, Mastermind... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I’m excited to introduce you to Summer Tannhauser, and I’m eager to hear what she can teach us about using Pinterest to grow an interior design business. She’s a Pinterest expert, a business coach, Mastermind leader, and a business/marketing mentor to female entrepreneurs who want to create an impact online through their personal brand and business. She has some really cool things going on now, like her Live More, Work Less business model, and blog series. We have touched on the world of Pinterest in earlier episodes: Ep. 209 with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of Savour Partnership, and Ep. 223 with Allison Fannin. Today’s episode focuses on the ins and outs of this important platform and pulls back the curtain on Pinterest to show how web designers can use it to build our brand. Show highlights: Why Pinterest is a vehicle for growing your business locally Summer’s advice about using keywords about your location to draw people in and showcase your brand Setting up your Pinterest account and profile---Do’s and Don’t’s How to set up “rich pins” and validate them How rich pins bring people back to your website Start off with your business name in your profile, use keywords, location, your website, and a description of your business Have a minimum of 15 boards to show that your profile is complete Creating board titles using important keywords Going from a personal to business account: how to clean up or delete existing boards that don’t fit or promote your business How to fill your boards with a combination of other people’s boards and your own content Why some pins should be on multiple boards See what people are looking for to get great ideas for blog topics Change your perspective and think of Pinterest as a search engine and NOT a social media platform Summer’s advice for pinning people’s pins and following accounts to increase your engagement, if you have less than 100 followers “The first step is to make sure your website is updated and presents your brand well. There is no sense spending hours on Pinterest driving people to a website that’s a hot mess.” Focus more on your state name than city name, but include local town names on your profile and on boards Your Pinterest content will have people engaging long-term over time, so don’t focus on short-term events and happenings Getting consistent and active on Pinterest: Consider investing in a scheduling program so it can pin for you on a consistent basis Which platform is best for interior designers if you have limited time? Summer’s Live More, Work Less blog series, highlighting entrepreneurs who are making it work Resources: Her website: Summer Tannhauser Her free course: Free Pin Course Summer’s social media: Twitter - @summerktann Facebook Pinterest Instagram Tail Wind App (To use for Pinterest and social media scheduling) Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I’m excited to introduce you to Summer Tannhauser, and I’m eager to hear what she can teach us about using Pinterest to grow an interior design business. She’s a Pinterest expert, a business coach, Mastermind leader, and a business/marketing mentor to female entrepreneurs who want to create an impact online through their personal brand and business. She has some really cool things going on now, like her Live More, Work Less business model, and blog series.

We have touched on the world of Pinterest in earlier episodes: Ep. 209 with Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson of Savour Partnership, and Ep. 223 with Allison Fannin. Today’s episode focuses on the ins and outs of this important platform and pulls back the curtain on Pinterest to show how web designers can use it to build our brand.

Show highlights:

  • Why Pinterest is a vehicle for growing your business locally
  • Summer’s advice about using keywords about your location to draw people in and showcase your brand
  • Setting up your Pinterest account and profile---Do’s and Don’t’s
  • How to set up “rich pins” and validate them
  • How rich pins bring people back to your website
  • Start off with your business name in your profile, use keywords, location, your website, and a description of your business
  • Have a minimum of 15 boards to show that your profile is complete
  • Creating board titles using important keywords
  • Going from a personal to business account: how to clean up or delete existing boards that don’t fit or promote your business
  • How to fill your boards with a combination of other people’s boards and your own content
  • Why some pins should be on multiple boards
  • See what people are looking for to get great ideas for blog topics
  • Change your perspective and think of Pinterest as a search engine and NOT a social media platform
  • Summer’s advice for pinning people’s pins and following accounts to increase your engagement, if you have less than 100 followers
  • “The first step is to make sure your website is updated and presents your brand well. There is no sense spending hours on Pinterest driving people to a website that’s a hot mess.”
  • Focus more on your state name than city name, but include local town names on your profile and on boards
  • Your Pinterest content will have people engaging long-term over time, so don’t focus on short-term events and happenings
  • Getting consistent and active on Pinterest: Consider investing in a scheduling program so it can pin for you on a consistent basis
  • Which platform is best for interior designers if you have limited time?
  • Summer’s Live More, Work Less blog series, highlighting entrepreneurs who are making it work

Resources:

Her website:

Summer Tannhauser

Her free course:

Free Pin Course

Summer’s social media:

Twitter - @summerktann

Facebook

Pinterest

Instagram

Tail Wind App (To use for Pinterest and social media scheduling)

]]> 3526 no 291: Cheryl Luckett - From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/291-cheryl-luckett-from-side-hustle-to-full-time-interior-design Cheryl Luckett is the principal of Dwell by Cheryl, her interior design company. She has two areas of expertise that I’m interested in sharing with you today. She has taken her side hustle into a full-time profession, leaving the security of her corporate job. She actively engages in the business mentor/mentee relationship. Loyal listeners might remember a few weeks back, in Episode 267, with Rasheeda Gray of Gray Space Interiors. She described then how her mentor has helped her through the challenges of having a corporate job while working hard on the side in interior design. Cheryl is that mentor that Rasheeda spoke about. Southern Home describes Dwell by Cheryl as “opulence in reach, with vintage treasures and ingenious restyles.” Cheryl believes her clients should dwell in a home they love. She describes her design as “sophisticated but approachable.” She launched in 2012 and continues to grow, with clients raving about her ability to transform a space on a realistic budget. It’s also her professionalism and attention to detail that earns her high praise. She shares with us about her 15-year career at a Fortune 500 company, along with her beginnings as a registered dietician and human resources professional. It was here that she developed her service skills and business acumen. I’ll remind you of Episode 6, where Erika Ward told us to “make sure that you think about and utilize your transferable skills when you open your interior design firm.” Cheryl will tell us how she has accomplished that. Cheryl’s work has been published in Charlotte Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, Queen City Exclusive, and Hoffman Media’s Southern Spaces, to name just a few. She is a five-time recipient of Best of Houzz Award for Design and Customer Satisfaction, and in 2015, she was named one of the 15 best designers in Charlotte by Build Direct. Cheryl also believes in giving back, and she has partnered locally with agencies such as Goodwill of the Southern Piedmont and Metrolina Habitat Restores to promote non-profit retailers and their missions. Join me for this conversation with Cheryl! What you’ll hear in the episode: How I met Cheryl at the Design Bloggers Conference in Los Angeles in 2017 Insights on running an interior design firm while working a full-time corporate job Cheryl’s path as a registered dietician, then in school foodservice, then human resources Following her love of design and décor to start a blog and take design classes at the local community college “I never treated this design business as merely a side hustle. I wanted to be ALL IN.” How a Design Bloggers Conference in 2012 changed everything for Cheryl: “I felt like I was finally with MY PEOPLE.” Planning an exit strategy from the corporate world How Cheryl’s blog grew and spread to become an effective marketing tool Looking for one YES Juggling a full-time job while designing for clients and taking design classes Why Cheryl had a “waiting list” Finding interns through a design program for students The criteria for leaving her corporate job, making the decision, and setting a time frame The 36-month plan and Cheryl’s financial advisor “Preparing for D-day”---building a website and putting systems in place Cheryl’s relationship with Rasheeda and why she wanted to be a mentor The guidelines and boundaries to the mentor/mentee relationship Cheryl’s mentor and friend, Ruthie Staalsen, a designer in Dallas Cheryl’s plans for this year’s Design Bloggers Conference “Social media: the best money you’ll never spend on marketing.” Resources: Curated Kravet (Use code “ck podcast” for 10% off your first order!) Her website and social: Her website: Dwell by Cheryl Her Blog: Dwell by Cheryl Blog Her Instagram: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Facebook: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl Her Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl/ Her Linkedin: Cheryl Luckett/ Wed, 31 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Cheryl Luckett is the principal of Dwell by Cheryl, her interior design company. She has two areas of expertise that I’m interested in sharing with you today. She has taken her side hustle into a full-time profession, leaving the security of her... Cheryl Luckett is the principal of Dwell by Cheryl, her interior design company. She has two areas of expertise that I’m interested in sharing with you today. She has taken her side hustle into a full-time profession, leaving the security of her corporate job. She actively engages in the business mentor/mentee relationship. Loyal listeners might remember a few weeks back, in Episode 267, with Rasheeda Gray of Gray Space Interiors. She described then how her mentor has helped her through the challenges of having a corporate job while working hard on the side in interior design. Cheryl is that mentor that Rasheeda spoke about. Southern Home describes Dwell by Cheryl as “opulence in reach, with vintage treasures and ingenious restyles.” Cheryl believes her clients should dwell in a home they love. She describes her design as “sophisticated but approachable.” She launched in 2012 and continues to grow, with clients raving about her ability to transform a space on a realistic budget. It’s also her professionalism and attention to detail that earns her high praise. She shares with us about her 15-year career at a Fortune 500 company, along with her beginnings as a registered dietician and human resources professional. It was here that she developed her service skills and business acumen. I’ll remind you of Episode 6, where Erika Ward told us to “make sure that you think about and utilize your transferable skills when you open your interior design firm.” Cheryl will tell us how she has accomplished that. Cheryl’s work has been published in Charlotte Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, Queen City Exclusive, and Hoffman Media’s Southern Spaces, to name just a few. She is a five-time recipient of Best of Houzz Award for Design and Customer Satisfaction, and in 2015, she was named one of the 15 best designers in Charlotte by Build Direct. Cheryl also believes in giving back, and she has partnered locally with agencies such as Goodwill of the Southern Piedmont and Metrolina Habitat Restores to promote non-profit retailers and their missions. Join me for this conversation with Cheryl! What you’ll hear in the episode: How I met Cheryl at the Design Bloggers Conference in Los Angeles in 2017 Insights on running an interior design firm while working a full-time corporate job Cheryl’s path as a registered dietician, then in school foodservice, then human resources Following her love of design and décor to start a blog and take design classes at the local community college “I never treated this design business as merely a side hustle. I wanted to be ALL IN.” How a Design Bloggers Conference in 2012 changed everything for Cheryl: “I felt like I was finally with MY PEOPLE.” Planning an exit strategy from the corporate world How Cheryl’s blog grew and spread to become an effective marketing tool Looking for one YES Juggling a full-time job while designing for clients and taking design classes Why Cheryl had a “waiting list” Finding interns through a design program for students The criteria for leaving her corporate job, making the decision, and setting a time frame The 36-month plan and Cheryl’s financial advisor “Preparing for D-day”---building a website and putting systems in place Cheryl’s relationship with Rasheeda and why she wanted to be a mentor The guidelines and boundaries to the mentor/mentee relationship Cheryl’s mentor and friend, Ruthie Staalsen, a designer in Dallas Cheryl’s plans for this year’s Design Bloggers Conference “Social media: the best money you’ll never spend on marketing.” Resources: Curated Kravet (Use code “ck podcast” for 10% off your first order!) Her website and social: Her website: Dwell by Cheryl Her Blog: Dwell by Cheryl Blog Her Instagram: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Facebook: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl Her Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl/ Her Linkedin: Cheryl Luckett/ Cheryl Luckett is the principal of Dwell by Cheryl, her interior design company. She has two areas of expertise that I’m interested in sharing with you today. She has taken her side hustle into a full-time profession, leaving the security of her corporate job. She actively engages in the business mentor/mentee relationship. Loyal listeners might remember a few weeks back, in Episode 267, with Rasheeda Gray of Gray Space Interiors. She described then how her mentor has helped her through the challenges of having a corporate job while working hard on the side in interior design. Cheryl is that mentor that Rasheeda spoke about.

Southern Home describes Dwell by Cheryl as “opulence in reach, with vintage treasures and ingenious restyles.” Cheryl believes her clients should dwell in a home they love. She describes her design as “sophisticated but approachable.” She launched in 2012 and continues to grow, with clients raving about her ability to transform a space on a realistic budget. It’s also her professionalism and attention to detail that earns her high praise. She shares with us about her 15-year career at a Fortune 500 company, along with her beginnings as a registered dietician and human resources professional. It was here that she developed her service skills and business acumen. I’ll remind you of Episode 6, where Erika Ward told us to “make sure that you think about and utilize your transferable skills when you open your interior design firm.” Cheryl will tell us how she has accomplished that.

Cheryl’s work has been published in Charlotte Home and Garden, Southern Home, The Charlotte Observer, Queen City Exclusive, and Hoffman Media’s Southern Spaces, to name just a few. She is a five-time recipient of Best of Houzz Award for Design and Customer Satisfaction, and in 2015, she was named one of the 15 best designers in Charlotte by Build Direct. Cheryl also believes in giving back, and she has partnered locally with agencies such as Goodwill of the Southern Piedmont and Metrolina Habitat Restores to promote non-profit retailers and their missions. Join me for this conversation with Cheryl!

What you’ll hear in the episode:

  • How I met Cheryl at the Design Bloggers Conference in Los Angeles in 2017
  • Insights on running an interior design firm while working a full-time corporate job
  • Cheryl’s path as a registered dietician, then in school foodservice, then human resources
  • Following her love of design and décor to start a blog and take design classes at the local community college
  • “I never treated this design business as merely a side hustle. I wanted to be ALL IN.”
  • How a Design Bloggers Conference in 2012 changed everything for Cheryl: “I felt like I was finally with MY PEOPLE.”
  • Planning an exit strategy from the corporate world
  • How Cheryl’s blog grew and spread to become an effective marketing tool
  • Looking for one YES
  • Juggling a full-time job while designing for clients and taking design classes
  • Why Cheryl had a “waiting list”
  • Finding interns through a design program for students
  • The criteria for leaving her corporate job, making the decision, and setting a time frame
  • The 36-month plan and Cheryl’s financial advisor
  • “Preparing for D-day”---building a website and putting systems in place
  • Cheryl’s relationship with Rasheeda and why she wanted to be a mentor
  • The guidelines and boundaries to the mentor/mentee relationship
  • Cheryl’s mentor and friend, Ruthie Staalsen, a designer in Dallas
  • Cheryl’s plans for this year’s Design Bloggers Conference
  • “Social media: the best money you’ll never spend on marketing.”

Resources:

Curated Kravet (Use code “ck podcast” for 10% off your first order!)

Her website and social: Her website: Dwell by Cheryl Her Blog: Dwell by Cheryl Blog Her Instagram: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Facebook: Dwell by Cheryl/ Her Twitter: Dwell By Cheryl Her Pinterest: Dwell By Cheryl/ Her Linkedin: Cheryl Luckett/]]> 4298 no 290: Warren Pearl- LeFroy Brooks -The Rolls Royce of Plumbing Fixtures http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/290-warren-pearl-lefroy-brooks-the-rolls-royce-of-plumbing-fixtures Today we are very happy to have Warren Pearl, the president of Lefroy Brooks, as our guest on the show. If you are a regular listener you may already know that Mr. Pearl has invited us to celebrate our second year birthday of the podcast on 21st of February, at his New York City showroom! Listen in today to get the details. Lefroy Brooks has been in business for the last twenty-five years and they have showrooms in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. They are known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures and on the show today you will hear how and why they got this name. Lefroy Brooks create plumbing fixtures who's design would compliment any decor, from any era, from early 20th century all the way to the end. Cooper and Graham take it from there, with their elegant and forward-thinking designs for the 21st century.  In addition to having a really outstanding line of plumbing fixtures which are renown for their superior quality, Lefroy Brooks are a company who really believe in and support interior designers with their education and customer service. Listen in today to find out what Mr. Pearl has to share with you. Show highlights: What earned Lefroy Brooks their reputation as the Rolls Royce of the plumbing fixtures industry. The philosophy behind the Lefroy Brooks product. How Lefroy Brooks became known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures. The selection of 21stcentury designs that can be accessed through Cooper & Graham. Some really awesome and interesting background info about Warren Pearl and the really famous people that he has dealt with. The special kind of customer service that Lefroy Brooks provides to the trade. The role of interior designers in Mr. Pearl's vision for Cooper & Graham. Why interior designers who haven't yet broken into the high end, luxury market should not be intimidated by the Cooper & Graham product line. The CEU's that Lefroy Brooks provide for interior designers. The fantastic new plumbing technology that's coming up in the future for Cooper & Graham. The classic elegance and authenticity of the Lefroy Brooks fixtures. The unique way that Lefroy Brooks approach their marketing. About the different Lefroy Brooks classic collections, many of which were designed in the 1940's. The Lefroy Brooks presence, outside of the USA. Go to My Doma Studio to find out about your special offer, as a listener of the podcast. Link to RSVP for Birthday Party: www.luannnigara.com/party Resources: Lefroy Brooks Cooper And Graham Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Mon, 29 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we are very happy to have Warren Pearl, the president of Lefroy Brooks, as our guest on the show. If you are a regular listener you may already know that Mr. Pearl has invited us to celebrate our second year birthday of the podcast on... Today we are very happy to have Warren Pearl, the president of Lefroy Brooks, as our guest on the show. If you are a regular listener you may already know that Mr. Pearl has invited us to celebrate our second year birthday of the podcast on 21st of February, at his New York City showroom! Listen in today to get the details. Lefroy Brooks has been in business for the last twenty-five years and they have showrooms in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. They are known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures and on the show today you will hear how and why they got this name. Lefroy Brooks create plumbing fixtures who's design would compliment any decor, from any era, from early 20th century all the way to the end. Cooper and Graham take it from there, with their elegant and forward-thinking designs for the 21st century.  In addition to having a really outstanding line of plumbing fixtures which are renown for their superior quality, Lefroy Brooks are a company who really believe in and support interior designers with their education and customer service. Listen in today to find out what Mr. Pearl has to share with you. Show highlights: What earned Lefroy Brooks their reputation as the Rolls Royce of the plumbing fixtures industry. The philosophy behind the Lefroy Brooks product. How Lefroy Brooks became known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures. The selection of 21stcentury designs that can be accessed through Cooper & Graham. Some really awesome and interesting background info about Warren Pearl and the really famous people that he has dealt with. The special kind of customer service that Lefroy Brooks provides to the trade. The role of interior designers in Mr. Pearl's vision for Cooper & Graham. Why interior designers who haven't yet broken into the high end, luxury market should not be intimidated by the Cooper & Graham product line. The CEU's that Lefroy Brooks provide for interior designers. The fantastic new plumbing technology that's coming up in the future for Cooper & Graham. The classic elegance and authenticity of the Lefroy Brooks fixtures. The unique way that Lefroy Brooks approach their marketing. About the different Lefroy Brooks classic collections, many of which were designed in the 1940's. The Lefroy Brooks presence, outside of the USA. Go to My Doma Studio to find out about your special offer, as a listener of the podcast. Link to RSVP for Birthday Party: www.luannnigara.com/party Resources: Lefroy Brooks Cooper And Graham Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Today we are very happy to have Warren Pearl, the president of Lefroy Brooks, as our guest on the show. If you are a regular listener you may already know that Mr. Pearl has invited us to celebrate our second year birthday of the podcast on 21st of February, at his New York City showroom! Listen in today to get the details.

Lefroy Brooks has been in business for the last twenty-five years and they have showrooms in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. They are known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures and on the show today you will hear how and why they got this name. Lefroy Brooks create plumbing fixtures who's design would compliment any decor, from any era, from early 20th century all the way to the end. Cooper and Graham take it from there, with their elegant and forward-thinking designs for the 21st century.  In addition to having a really outstanding line of plumbing fixtures which are renown for their superior quality, Lefroy Brooks are a company who really believe in and support interior designers with their education and customer service. Listen in today to find out what Mr. Pearl has to share with you.

Show highlights:

  • What earned Lefroy Brooks their reputation as the Rolls Royce of the plumbing fixtures industry.
  • The philosophy behind the Lefroy Brooks product.
  • How Lefroy Brooks became known as the Rolls Royce of bathroom and plumbing fixtures.
  • The selection of 21stcentury designs that can be accessed through Cooper & Graham.
  • Some really awesome and interesting background info about Warren Pearl and the really famous people that he has dealt with.
  • The special kind of customer service that Lefroy Brooks provides to the trade.
  • The role of interior designers in Mr. Pearl's vision for Cooper & Graham.
  • Why interior designers who haven't yet broken into the high end, luxury market should not be intimidated by the Cooper & Graham product line.
  • The CEU's that Lefroy Brooks provide for interior designers.
  • The fantastic new plumbing technology that's coming up in the future for Cooper & Graham.
  • The classic elegance and authenticity of the Lefroy Brooks fixtures.
  • The unique way that Lefroy Brooks approach their marketing.
  • About the different Lefroy Brooks classic collections, many of which were designed in the 1940's.
  • The Lefroy Brooks presence, outside of the USA.

Go to My Doma Studio to find out about your special offer, as a listener of the podcast.

Link to RSVP for Birthday Party:

www.luannnigara.com/party

Resources:

Lefroy Brooks

Cooper And Graham

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

]]> 3012 no 289: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: 7 Habits of Luxury Interior Designers http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/289-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-7-habits-of-luxury-interior-designers We have some really happy news today! We have Fred Berns back on the show! Since the beginning of this podcast he has appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174 and #226 and if you are a new listener, Fred is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is really so actionable. Today Fred will be talking to us about the seven habits of highly effective luxury interior designers. Listen in now to find out more! Fred is the only interior design business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promo materials for design professionals worldwide. He has more than twenty-five years of experience training design professionals, from Dallas to Dubai. He helps to create their online profiles, their websites, their social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. In addition, he also offers a wide range of coaching services which include his High-Performance Coaching Program, his Bio Briefing, and his Website Once Over. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: What Fred is currently up to and how got to the information about how the really successful, top designers and architects got to where they are today. The kinds of projects these really top designers and architects work on, and the famous people that they work for. Some of the characteristics that these top designers and architects have in common. Strangely enough, the top designers are not always the best designers- Fred discusses what actually makes them so successful. The mindset of a lot of the high end, really successful design professionals. How the really successful design professionals managed to tap into the high-end market. Fred discusses some of the onlys of the top design professionals. Optimising your Pinpointing the pain points, problems and challenges of the high-end market. Ways of creating really relevant blog posts, or videos for great marketing. Positioning yourself in order to break into the luxury, high-end market. What you really want to emphasize in your bio. The seven common habits that the really top, successful designers seem to share. Why it's important to get some price objections. The real value of being stubborn and not quitting. Fred's awesome Website Once Over- to help position you in a higher place. Fred's Bio Briefing coaching program- for you to really come across as someone who is highly qualified and an expert in your field. Links: For Fred's Website Once Over go to Website Onceover For Fred's Bio Briefing go to Bio Briefing Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have some really happy news today! We have Fred Berns back on the show! Since the beginning of this podcast he has appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174 and #226 and if you are a new listener, Fred is one of our favorite returning guests because... We have some really happy news today! We have Fred Berns back on the show! Since the beginning of this podcast he has appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174 and #226 and if you are a new listener, Fred is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is really so actionable. Today Fred will be talking to us about the seven habits of highly effective luxury interior designers. Listen in now to find out more! Fred is the only interior design business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promo materials for design professionals worldwide. He has more than twenty-five years of experience training design professionals, from Dallas to Dubai. He helps to create their online profiles, their websites, their social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. In addition, he also offers a wide range of coaching services which include his High-Performance Coaching Program, his Bio Briefing, and his Website Once Over. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: What Fred is currently up to and how got to the information about how the really successful, top designers and architects got to where they are today. The kinds of projects these really top designers and architects work on, and the famous people that they work for. Some of the characteristics that these top designers and architects have in common. Strangely enough, the top designers are not always the best designers- Fred discusses what actually makes them so successful. The mindset of a lot of the high end, really successful design professionals. How the really successful design professionals managed to tap into the high-end market. Fred discusses some of the onlys of the top design professionals. Optimising your Pinpointing the pain points, problems and challenges of the high-end market. Ways of creating really relevant blog posts, or videos for great marketing. Positioning yourself in order to break into the luxury, high-end market. What you really want to emphasize in your bio. The seven common habits that the really top, successful designers seem to share. Why it's important to get some price objections. The real value of being stubborn and not quitting. Fred's awesome Website Once Over- to help position you in a higher place. Fred's Bio Briefing coaching program- for you to really come across as someone who is highly qualified and an expert in your field. Links: For Fred's Website Once Over go to Website Onceover For Fred's Bio Briefing go to Bio Briefing We have some really happy news today! We have Fred Berns back on the show! Since the beginning of this podcast he has appeared on episodes #22, #48, #96, #174 and #226 and if you are a new listener, Fred is one of our favorite returning guests because his advice is really so actionable. Today Fred will be talking to us about the seven habits of highly effective luxury interior designers. Listen in now to find out more!

Fred is the only interior design business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promo materials for design professionals worldwide. He has more than twenty-five years of experience training design professionals, from Dallas to Dubai. He helps to create their online profiles, their websites, their social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. In addition, he also offers a wide range of coaching services which include his High-Performance Coaching Program, his Bio Briefing, and his Website Once Over. Listen in to find out what he has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • What Fred is currently up to and how got to the information about how the really successful, top designers and architects got to where they are today.
  • The kinds of projects these really top designers and architects work on, and the famous people that they work for.
  • Some of the characteristics that these top designers and architects have in common.
  • Strangely enough, the top designers are not always the best designers- Fred discusses what actually makes them so successful.
  • The mindset of a lot of the high end, really successful design professionals.
  • How the really successful design professionals managed to tap into the high-end market.
  • Fred discusses some of the onlys of the top design professionals.
  • Optimising your
  • Pinpointing the pain points, problems and challenges of the high-end market.
  • Ways of creating really relevant blog posts, or videos for great marketing.
  • Positioning yourself in order to break into the luxury, high-end market.
  • What you really want to emphasize in your bio.
  • The seven common habits that the really top, successful designers seem to share.
  • Why it's important to get some price objections.
  • The real value of being stubborn and not quitting.
  • Fred's awesome Website Once Over- to help position you in a higher place.
  • Fred's Bio Briefing coaching program- for you to really come across as someone who is highly qualified and an expert in your field.

Links:

For Fred's Website Once Over go to Website Onceover

For Fred's Bio Briefing go to Bio Briefing

]]> 3570 no 288: Madcap Cottage, Jason Oliver Nixon: Building a Lifestyle Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/288-madcap-cottage-jason-oliver-nixon-building-a-lifestyle-brand Today we have Jason Oliver Nixon, one of the dynamic partners of Madcap Cottage, with us on the show. LuAnn has really been looking forward to this interview because she and Jason Oliver are both going to be at the IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo) Conference in Tampa Florida in March, where Jason and his partner John Loecke are going be giving a keynote address. On the show today Jason will be talking about the IWCE and also about his business, Madcap Cottage, so listen in to find out more. There are so many parts of Madcap Cottage that have intrigued LuAnn and she really admires that way that Jason Oliver and John stand so firmly in the space of their design aesthetic. These Madcap gents are well known for their whimsical use of color and pattern, really bringing their client's story-lines to life and their out-of-the-box website really says it all! Listen in today to find out about Madcap Cottage's really unusual and fascinating approach to interior design. Show highlights: How Madcap Cottage came about. The way that Madcap Cottage approaches the needs of their clients. Jason Oliver explains how both his and John's former experience as magazine editors and television producers assists them with bringing their client's stories uniquely to life. The way that they challenge and push their clients to bring prints and patterns into their lives. Prints Charming- the really awesome book that Jason Oliver and John have written as a primer to give people permission to bring prints and patterns into their lives. Why people come to Jason Oliver and John. The reason why it's never a head-to-toe look from Madcap Cottage. The intuitive and thoughtful way that Jason Oliver and John work with their clients. How constant traveling really helps them to keep their eyes tuned and their clients well informed. The evolution of the Madcap brand. How Jason Oliver and John trained themselves as interior designers. Where Jason Oliver finds the time to rest with his hectic schedule. What luxury really means. What to expect from Jason Oliver's keynote address. Resources: Book: Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke Robert Allen fabric collection Jason Oliver and John will be giving their keynote address at 8 am on 27th March the IWCE. Wed, 24 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Jason Oliver Nixon, one of the dynamic partners of Madcap Cottage, with us on the show. LuAnn has really been looking forward to this interview because she and Jason Oliver are both going to be at the IWCE (International Window Coverings... Today we have Jason Oliver Nixon, one of the dynamic partners of Madcap Cottage, with us on the show. LuAnn has really been looking forward to this interview because she and Jason Oliver are both going to be at the IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo) Conference in Tampa Florida in March, where Jason and his partner John Loecke are going be giving a keynote address. On the show today Jason will be talking about the IWCE and also about his business, Madcap Cottage, so listen in to find out more. There are so many parts of Madcap Cottage that have intrigued LuAnn and she really admires that way that Jason Oliver and John stand so firmly in the space of their design aesthetic. These Madcap gents are well known for their whimsical use of color and pattern, really bringing their client's story-lines to life and their out-of-the-box website really says it all! Listen in today to find out about Madcap Cottage's really unusual and fascinating approach to interior design. Show highlights: How Madcap Cottage came about. The way that Madcap Cottage approaches the needs of their clients. Jason Oliver explains how both his and John's former experience as magazine editors and television producers assists them with bringing their client's stories uniquely to life. The way that they challenge and push their clients to bring prints and patterns into their lives. Prints Charming- the really awesome book that Jason Oliver and John have written as a primer to give people permission to bring prints and patterns into their lives. Why people come to Jason Oliver and John. The reason why it's never a head-to-toe look from Madcap Cottage. The intuitive and thoughtful way that Jason Oliver and John work with their clients. How constant traveling really helps them to keep their eyes tuned and their clients well informed. The evolution of the Madcap brand. How Jason Oliver and John trained themselves as interior designers. Where Jason Oliver finds the time to rest with his hectic schedule. What luxury really means. What to expect from Jason Oliver's keynote address. Resources: Book: Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke Robert Allen fabric collection Jason Oliver and John will be giving their keynote address at 8 am on 27th March the IWCE. Today we have Jason Oliver Nixon, one of the dynamic partners of Madcap Cottage, with us on the show. LuAnn has really been looking forward to this interview because she and Jason Oliver are both going to be at the IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo) Conference in Tampa Florida in March, where Jason and his partner John Loecke are going be giving a keynote address. On the show today Jason will be talking about the IWCE and also about his business, Madcap Cottage, so listen in to find out more.

There are so many parts of Madcap Cottage that have intrigued LuAnn and she really admires that way that Jason Oliver and John stand so firmly in the space of their design aesthetic. These Madcap gents are well known for their whimsical use of color and pattern, really bringing their client's story-lines to life and their out-of-the-box website really says it all! Listen in today to find out about Madcap Cottage's really unusual and fascinating approach to interior design.

Show highlights:

  • How Madcap Cottage came about.
  • The way that Madcap Cottage approaches the needs of their clients.
  • Jason Oliver explains how both his and John's former experience as magazine editors and television producers assists them with bringing their client's stories uniquely to life.
  • The way that they challenge and push their clients to bring prints and patterns into their lives.
  • Prints Charming- the really awesome book that Jason Oliver and John have written as a primer to give people permission to bring prints and patterns into their lives.
  • Why people come to Jason Oliver and John.
  • The reason why it's never a head-to-toe look from Madcap Cottage.
  • The intuitive and thoughtful way that Jason Oliver and John work with their clients.
  • How constant traveling really helps them to keep their eyes tuned and their clients well informed.
  • The evolution of the Madcap brand.
  • How Jason Oliver and John trained themselves as interior designers.
  • Where Jason Oliver finds the time to rest with his hectic schedule.
  • What luxury really means.
  • What to expect from Jason Oliver's keynote address.

Resources:

Book: Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Prints Charming- Create Absolutely Beautiful Interiors With Prints And Patterns by Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke

Robert Allen fabric collection

Jason Oliver and John will be giving their keynote address at 8 am on 27th March the IWCE.

]]> 3535 no 287: Sandra Espinet: Keys to a Luxury Interior Design Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/287-sandra-espinet-keys-to-a-luxury-interior-design-brand Big news! We are nearing February and the 2nd birthday for the podcast! Our 300th episode is coming on February 21; there’s a BIG party in NYC---and you’re invited! Listen to today’s show for details! Today’s guest is Sandra Espinet, a luxury interior designer and the principal of SE Designs, based in Los Cabos, Mexico. Sandra is warm, genuine, intelligent, and a very smart businesswoman. She knows the nuances of catering to the luxury design market, and how it carries its own code and way of doing things. As a lifelong traveler, she embraces the concepts of relaxed luxury and casual international style in her designs. Her experience and extensive travel have given her a unique perspective on her design style. Her work has been published in several international publications, and she has received numerous awards and distinctions, in addition to appearing on several HGTV shows and radio shows. Her first book is The Well-Traveled Home and her newest book is Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living, due for release in a few weeks. What you’ll hear in this episode: How I met Sandra through Andrew Joseph PR: the similar focus on how they work with clients Getting real with yourself about the client you want to work with and what you want to do Why you can’t be an expert on everything, but you CAN be an expert in your field Knowing what calls to you and attracts you What it means to design for luxury clients Understanding the client in THEIR world and in THEIR space Locking down the intangibles to move to the next level Finding the balance between “staying in your lane” and branching out How to decline the projects that aren’t aligned with your focus and having the power to say NO “If you know that you can’t lead, then be a follower, but follow the best person you can find.” The other legs of SE Designs and the business positives that come from them Staying conscious of your core clients, especially about social media exposure How Sandra gets clients with NO advertising Sandra’s recent award from AD Mexico as a Top Ten Designer in Latin America How Sandra manifests her strengths in each job Why Sandra works now with a smaller team and with fewer simultaneous jobs The unique focus of each of Sandra’s books: one eclectic book about travel and one about casual lifestyle trends in the luxury market Why Sandra LOVES to shop with her clients Plan and focus: How Sandra’s shopping trips begin with a budget and a floor plan Becoming fully immersed in the total experience with a client in the psychology of design “I’m designing a stage for fabulous people to lead fabulous lives.” The power and responsibility in spending other people’s money Resources: Website: Sandra Espinet Find Sandra’s monthly blog: 7 Things I Cannot Live Without The Well-Traveled Home by Sandra Espinet Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living by Sandra Espinet Facebook: Sandra Espinet Instagram: Sandra Espinet Pinterest: Sandra Espinet Mon, 22 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Big news! We are nearing February and the 2nd birthday for the podcast! Our 300th episode is coming on February 21; there’s a BIG party in NYC---and you’re invited! Listen to today’s show for details! Today’s guest is Sandra Espinet, a luxury... Big news! We are nearing February and the 2nd birthday for the podcast! Our 300th episode is coming on February 21; there’s a BIG party in NYC---and you’re invited! Listen to today’s show for details! Today’s guest is Sandra Espinet, a luxury interior designer and the principal of SE Designs, based in Los Cabos, Mexico. Sandra is warm, genuine, intelligent, and a very smart businesswoman. She knows the nuances of catering to the luxury design market, and how it carries its own code and way of doing things. As a lifelong traveler, she embraces the concepts of relaxed luxury and casual international style in her designs. Her experience and extensive travel have given her a unique perspective on her design style. Her work has been published in several international publications, and she has received numerous awards and distinctions, in addition to appearing on several HGTV shows and radio shows. Her first book is The Well-Traveled Home and her newest book is Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living, due for release in a few weeks. What you’ll hear in this episode: How I met Sandra through Andrew Joseph PR: the similar focus on how they work with clients Getting real with yourself about the client you want to work with and what you want to do Why you can’t be an expert on everything, but you CAN be an expert in your field Knowing what calls to you and attracts you What it means to design for luxury clients Understanding the client in THEIR world and in THEIR space Locking down the intangibles to move to the next level Finding the balance between “staying in your lane” and branching out How to decline the projects that aren’t aligned with your focus and having the power to say NO “If you know that you can’t lead, then be a follower, but follow the best person you can find.” The other legs of SE Designs and the business positives that come from them Staying conscious of your core clients, especially about social media exposure How Sandra gets clients with NO advertising Sandra’s recent award from AD Mexico as a Top Ten Designer in Latin America How Sandra manifests her strengths in each job Why Sandra works now with a smaller team and with fewer simultaneous jobs The unique focus of each of Sandra’s books: one eclectic book about travel and one about casual lifestyle trends in the luxury market Why Sandra LOVES to shop with her clients Plan and focus: How Sandra’s shopping trips begin with a budget and a floor plan Becoming fully immersed in the total experience with a client in the psychology of design “I’m designing a stage for fabulous people to lead fabulous lives.” The power and responsibility in spending other people’s money Resources: Website: Sandra Espinet Find Sandra’s monthly blog: 7 Things I Cannot Live Without The Well-Traveled Home by Sandra Espinet Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living by Sandra Espinet Facebook: Sandra Espinet Instagram: Sandra Espinet Pinterest: Sandra Espinet Big news! We are nearing February and the 2nd birthday for the podcast! Our 300th episode is coming on February 21; there’s a BIG party in NYC---and you’re invited! Listen to today’s show for details!

Today’s guest is Sandra Espinet, a luxury interior designer and the principal of SE Designs, based in Los Cabos, Mexico. Sandra is warm, genuine, intelligent, and a very smart businesswoman. She knows the nuances of catering to the luxury design market, and how it carries its own code and way of doing things. As a lifelong traveler, she embraces the concepts of relaxed luxury and casual international style in her designs.

Her experience and extensive travel have given her a unique perspective on her design style. Her work has been published in several international publications, and she has received numerous awards and distinctions, in addition to appearing on several HGTV shows and radio shows. Her first book is The Well-Traveled Home and her newest book is Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living, due for release in a few weeks.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How I met Sandra through Andrew Joseph PR: the similar focus on how they work with clients
  • Getting real with yourself about the client you want to work with and what you want to do
  • Why you can’t be an expert on everything, but you CAN be an expert in your field
  • Knowing what calls to you and attracts you
  • What it means to design for luxury clients
  • Understanding the client in THEIR world and in THEIR space
  • Locking down the intangibles to move to the next level
  • Finding the balance between “staying in your lane” and branching out
  • How to decline the projects that aren’t aligned with your focus and having the power to say NO
  • “If you know that you can’t lead, then be a follower, but follow the best person you can find.”
  • The other legs of SE Designs and the business positives that come from them
  • Staying conscious of your core clients, especially about social media exposure
  • How Sandra gets clients with NO advertising
  • Sandra’s recent award from AD Mexico as a Top Ten Designer in Latin America
  • How Sandra manifests her strengths in each job
  • Why Sandra works now with a smaller team and with fewer simultaneous jobs
  • The unique focus of each of Sandra’s books: one eclectic book about travel and one about casual lifestyle trends in the luxury market
  • Why Sandra LOVES to shop with her clients
  • Plan and focus: How Sandra’s shopping trips begin with a budget and a floor plan
  • Becoming fully immersed in the total experience with a client in the psychology of design
  • “I’m designing a stage for fabulous people to lead fabulous lives.”
  • The power and responsibility in spending other people’s money

Resources:

Website: Sandra Espinet

Find Sandra’s monthly blog: 7 Things I Cannot Live Without

The Well-Traveled Home by Sandra Espinet

Barefoot Luxury: Mexican Resort Living by Sandra Espinet

Facebook: Sandra Espinet Instagram: Sandra Espinet Pinterest: Sandra Espinet]]> 4159 no 286: Power Talk Friday: Jeff Bullas - You Have a Interior Design Blog, Now What? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/286-jeff-bullasyou-have-a-interior-design-blog-now-what Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday. We are really very happy to introduce Jeff Bullas, an expert social media marketing blogger, strategist and speaker from Sydney Australia, as our guest for today's show. LuAnn has been a great fan of his work for years and she has also been on his email list and following him for a really long time. Despite all the conversations that we've had on the show about blogging, there are still some things about it that continue to plague us, as designers. So today Jeff will be talking about why blogging really works and he will also be sharing some of his expertise about ways to get your audience to find you on social media and how to write killer headlines. Listen in to find out more! Jeff is the author of the book Blogging The Smart Way- How To Create And Market A Killer Blog With Social Media. He is listed in Forbes as one of the Top Twenty Influencers of CMO's in 2017, he has been ranked by Apollo Research as the Top Twenty Influencers of Digital Marketing in the USA and he is also number one in Global Digital Marketing Influencer 2016. He has been named as one of the Top 100 Social Media Influencers in 2015 and he was featured in Inc.Com as one of the twenty digital marketing experts to follow on Twitter. Forbes ranked Jeff as number eight on The World's Top 40 Social Marketing Talent, and he gets over four million visitors to his site each year, so listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you today about blogging and getting yourself known on social media. Show highlights: Jeff discusses his passion and philosophy and talks about how blogging can really become a positive force in your business. Attracting an audience that really loves what you do. Overcoming problems and challenges through writing blog posts about your pain points. Why Jeff believes that content and blogging is so important. Are you wanting to become an industry leader or a celebrity designer, or are you just looking for a stepping stone to creating more business for your business? Jeff explains the different tactics for the different goals. Email is still the business tool of choice for communication, so Jeff explains some ways to inspire people to hand over their email addresses. Creating really effective lead magnets. Some awesome advice about titles and headlines. What you need in order to build your distribution on the more visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Looking at what the top performers are doing in order to get some great ideas. Developing the kinds of habits that will really work for you. What deep work looks like and why you really need to do it! Creating content of consequence. A success habit that many smart people seem to ignore. Some strategies to help your audience to find you. Links: Connect with Jeff: Blogger at JeffBullas.com - more than 4 million people visit every year Author of the Amazon Best Seller - "Blogging the Smart Way - How to Create and Market a Killer Blog with Social Media"  Forbes "Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers - 2014" - Ranked #8 Huffington Post - "Top 100 Business, Leadership and Technology Twitter Accounts You Must Follow" Follow me on Twitter and join the community of more than 320,000 of your peers Join us on Facebook  Hangout with us on Google+  Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn Fri, 19 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday. We are really very happy to introduce Jeff Bullas, an expert social media marketing blogger, strategist and speaker from Sydney Australia, as our guest for today's show. LuAnn has been a great fan of... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday. We are really very happy to introduce Jeff Bullas, an expert social media marketing blogger, strategist and speaker from Sydney Australia, as our guest for today's show. LuAnn has been a great fan of his work for years and she has also been on his email list and following him for a really long time. Despite all the conversations that we've had on the show about blogging, there are still some things about it that continue to plague us, as designers. So today Jeff will be talking about why blogging really works and he will also be sharing some of his expertise about ways to get your audience to find you on social media and how to write killer headlines. Listen in to find out more! Jeff is the author of the book Blogging The Smart Way- How To Create And Market A Killer Blog With Social Media. He is listed in Forbes as one of the Top Twenty Influencers of CMO's in 2017, he has been ranked by Apollo Research as the Top Twenty Influencers of Digital Marketing in the USA and he is also number one in Global Digital Marketing Influencer 2016. He has been named as one of the Top 100 Social Media Influencers in 2015 and he was featured in Inc.Com as one of the twenty digital marketing experts to follow on Twitter. Forbes ranked Jeff as number eight on The World's Top 40 Social Marketing Talent, and he gets over four million visitors to his site each year, so listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you today about blogging and getting yourself known on social media. Show highlights: Jeff discusses his passion and philosophy and talks about how blogging can really become a positive force in your business. Attracting an audience that really loves what you do. Overcoming problems and challenges through writing blog posts about your pain points. Why Jeff believes that content and blogging is so important. Are you wanting to become an industry leader or a celebrity designer, or are you just looking for a stepping stone to creating more business for your business? Jeff explains the different tactics for the different goals. Email is still the business tool of choice for communication, so Jeff explains some ways to inspire people to hand over their email addresses. Creating really effective lead magnets. Some awesome advice about titles and headlines. What you need in order to build your distribution on the more visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Looking at what the top performers are doing in order to get some great ideas. Developing the kinds of habits that will really work for you. What deep work looks like and why you really need to do it! Creating content of consequence. A success habit that many smart people seem to ignore. Some strategies to help your audience to find you. Links: Connect with Jeff: Blogger at JeffBullas.com - more than 4 million people visit every year Author of the Amazon Best Seller - "Blogging the Smart Way - How to Create and Market a Killer Blog with Social Media"  Forbes "Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers - 2014" - Ranked #8 Huffington Post - "Top 100 Business, Leadership and Technology Twitter Accounts You Must Follow" Follow me on Twitter and join the community of more than 320,000 of your peers Join us on Facebook  Hangout with us on Google+  Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday. We are really very happy to introduce Jeff Bullas, an expert social media marketing blogger, strategist and speaker from Sydney Australia, as our guest for today's show. LuAnn has been a great fan of his work for years and she has also been on his email list and following him for a really long time. Despite all the conversations that we've had on the show about blogging, there are still some things about it that continue to plague us, as designers. So today Jeff will be talking about why blogging really works and he will also be sharing some of his expertise about ways to get your audience to find you on social media and how to write killer headlines. Listen in to find out more!

Jeff is the author of the book Blogging The Smart Way- How To Create And Market A Killer Blog With Social Media. He is listed in Forbes as one of the Top Twenty Influencers of CMO's in 2017, he has been ranked by Apollo Research as the Top Twenty Influencers of Digital Marketing in the USA and he is also number one in Global Digital Marketing Influencer 2016. He has been named as one of the Top 100 Social Media Influencers in 2015 and he was featured in Inc.Com as one of the twenty digital marketing experts to follow on Twitter. Forbes ranked Jeff as number eight on The World's Top 40 Social Marketing Talent, and he gets over four million visitors to his site each year, so listen in to find out what Jeff has to share with you today about blogging and getting yourself known on social media.

Show highlights:

  • Jeff discusses his passion and philosophy and talks about how blogging can really become a positive force in your business.
  • Attracting an audience that really loves what you do.
  • Overcoming problems and challenges through writing blog posts about your pain points.
  • Why Jeff believes that content and blogging is so important.
  • Are you wanting to become an industry leader or a celebrity designer, or are you just looking for a stepping stone to creating more business for your business? Jeff explains the different tactics for the different goals.
  • Email is still the business tool of choice for communication, so Jeff explains some ways to inspire people to hand over their email addresses.
  • Creating really effective lead magnets.
  • Some awesome advice about titles and headlines.
  • What you need in order to build your distribution on the more visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
  • Looking at what the top performers are doing in order to get some great ideas.
  • Developing the kinds of habits that will really work for you.
  • What deep work looks like and why you really need to do it!
  • Creating content of consequence.
  • A success habit that many smart people seem to ignore.
  • Some strategies to help your audience to find you.

Links:

Connect with Jeff:

Blogger at JeffBullas.com - more than 4 million people visit every year

Author of the Amazon Best Seller - "Blogging the Smart Way - How to Create and Market a Killer Blog with Social Media" 

Forbes "Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers - 2014" - Ranked #8

Huffington Post - "Top 100 Business, Leadership and Technology Twitter Accounts You Must Follow"

Follow me on Twitter and join the community of more than 320,000 of your peers

Join us on Facebook 

Hangout with us on Google+ 

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn

]]> 2553 no 285: Lot 35 Homes: Husband & Wife Teams, Morgan & Ryan Motsinger http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/285-lot-35-homes-husband-wife-teams-morgan-ryan-motsinger Welcome to today's show! Today we have another show featuring a husband and wife team and we're really excited to have Morgan and Ryan Motsinger, the owners of Lot 35 Homes as our guests. Ryan is a contractor and Morgan is a designer and until recently they each used to do their individual jobs. During the summer of 2017 however,  they combined their skills and opened a business together and now they have a really cool thing going on! Listen in today as we take apart the way that Morgan and Ryan work together as a husband and wife team. Lot 35 Homes is a full-service residential construction and interior design company, specializing in creating spaces that are relaxing, comfortable, functional and also beautiful. Ryan and Morgan really love their local community in Tillamook, on the Oregon coast and so they align their business values as closely as possible with those of their community. Listen in now to find out more about the really awesome way that they go about their business. Show highlights: The really awesome website that Morgan created for their business. (lot35homes.com ) How they came up with the name of their business. What lead them to the decision to combine their businesses. How the great dynamic between Morgan and Ryan really works for them as a professional team. The major contract that they have recently signed. Where and how their new major client managed to find them. Their intentions for the marketing of their business in the future. The kinds of projects that Morgan undertook for her three guinea pig clients. The merits of using iPhone photos on Instagram versus using professional ones. Morgan's rationale behind the recent adjustment of her fees for consultations. How Morgan developed the confidence to present herself as a professional designer. The great features on their website. How Morgan highlights other people's creativity through the services that she offers. How Lot 35 Connect can really help make the lives of parents with special needs kids more comfortable. Their goal with Lot 35 Connect. Their game plan for engagement on Facebook Live. Links: Morgan and Ryan's website: Lot 35 Homes Go to Curated Kravet, select the items that you want and use the code CK Podcast at the checkout to get 10% off your entire first order. Wed, 17 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! Today we have another show featuring a husband and wife team and we're really excited to have Morgan and Ryan Motsinger, the owners of Lot 35 Homes as our guests. Ryan is a contractor and Morgan is a designer and until... Welcome to today's show! Today we have another show featuring a husband and wife team and we're really excited to have Morgan and Ryan Motsinger, the owners of Lot 35 Homes as our guests. Ryan is a contractor and Morgan is a designer and until recently they each used to do their individual jobs. During the summer of 2017 however,  they combined their skills and opened a business together and now they have a really cool thing going on! Listen in today as we take apart the way that Morgan and Ryan work together as a husband and wife team. Lot 35 Homes is a full-service residential construction and interior design company, specializing in creating spaces that are relaxing, comfortable, functional and also beautiful. Ryan and Morgan really love their local community in Tillamook, on the Oregon coast and so they align their business values as closely as possible with those of their community. Listen in now to find out more about the really awesome way that they go about their business. Show highlights: The really awesome website that Morgan created for their business. (lot35homes.com ) How they came up with the name of their business. What lead them to the decision to combine their businesses. How the great dynamic between Morgan and Ryan really works for them as a professional team. The major contract that they have recently signed. Where and how their new major client managed to find them. Their intentions for the marketing of their business in the future. The kinds of projects that Morgan undertook for her three guinea pig clients. The merits of using iPhone photos on Instagram versus using professional ones. Morgan's rationale behind the recent adjustment of her fees for consultations. How Morgan developed the confidence to present herself as a professional designer. The great features on their website. How Morgan highlights other people's creativity through the services that she offers. How Lot 35 Connect can really help make the lives of parents with special needs kids more comfortable. Their goal with Lot 35 Connect. Their game plan for engagement on Facebook Live. Links: Morgan and Ryan's website: Lot 35 Homes Go to Curated Kravet, select the items that you want and use the code CK Podcast at the checkout to get 10% off your entire first order. Welcome to today's show! Today we have another show featuring a husband and wife team and we're really excited to have Morgan and Ryan Motsinger, the owners of Lot 35 Homes as our guests. Ryan is a contractor and Morgan is a designer and until recently they each used to do their individual jobs. During the summer of 2017 however,  they combined their skills and opened a business together and now they have a really cool thing going on! Listen in today as we take apart the way that Morgan and Ryan work together as a husband and wife team.

Lot 35 Homes is a full-service residential construction and interior design company, specializing in creating spaces that are relaxing, comfortable, functional and also beautiful. Ryan and Morgan really love their local community in Tillamook, on the Oregon coast and so they align their business values as closely as possible with those of their community. Listen in now to find out more about the really awesome way that they go about their business.

Show highlights:

  • The really awesome website that Morgan created for their business. (lot35homes.com )
  • How they came up with the name of their business.
  • What lead them to the decision to combine their businesses.
  • How the great dynamic between Morgan and Ryan really works for them as a professional team.
  • The major contract that they have recently signed.
  • Where and how their new major client managed to find them.
  • Their intentions for the marketing of their business in the future.
  • The kinds of projects that Morgan undertook for her three guinea pig clients.
  • The merits of using iPhone photos on Instagram versus using professional ones.
  • Morgan's rationale behind the recent adjustment of her fees for consultations.
  • How Morgan developed the confidence to present herself as a professional designer.
  • The great features on their website.
  • How Morgan highlights other people's creativity through the services that she offers.
  • How Lot 35 Connect can really help make the lives of parents with special needs kids more comfortable.
  • Their goal with Lot 35 Connect.
  • Their game plan for engagement on Facebook Live.

Links:

Morgan and Ryan's website: Lot 35 Homes

Go to Curated Kravet, select the items that you want and use the code CK Podcast at the checkout to get 10% off your entire first order.

]]> 3307 no 284: Caitlyn Waite: Savvy Giving by Design’s 1st Affiliate in Mobile, Alabama http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/284-caitlyn-waite-savvy-giving-by-designs-1st-affiliate-in-mobile-alabama Welcome to today's show. Our guest for today is Caitlyn Waite, an interior designer from Mobile Alabama. Caitlyn has been chosen to head up the very first affiliate chapter of Savvy Giving By Design, a really wonderful organization started by Susan Wintersteen (#164) with a mission to provide comfort, healing, and support to families with a child facing a medical crisis. This is done by transforming the interior space of the bedrooms of the child and their siblings, at no cost to the family. Listen in to find out more. Also, through her interior design business, Caitlyn has developed a relationship with a builder and she already has twelve confirmed projects lined up with him for 2018. Today she talks in detail about how this relationship came about and also about the kind of things that you, as designers, really need to know if you would like to duplicate in your design firm what Caitlyn has done in hers. Listen in today to find out more about Caitlyn's approach to cultivating valuable relationships with builders in order to create a really successful design form. Show highlights: How Caitlyn initially came to hear about Savvy Giving By Design through this podcast. The whole legal process that Caitlyn went through in order to become set up with Savvy Giving By Design. Caitlyn talks about her very first Savvy Giving project. The story of Caitlyn's daughter's Angel's Kiss. How Caitlyn found Georgia, the first child who's room she will be transforming. The unforeseen difficulties that Caitlyn experienced in finding nominees for the Savvy Giving project and what Susan Wintersteen has done to help overcome this. The kind of fund-raising that Caitlyn has done for the project- and how you can also get involved by making a donation. There are even some tradespeople who are willing to donate their time to this project. The way that Caitlyn works with the children to create a space for them that they will really love. How this project differs from a standard design project. The way that Savvy Giving is working as a cohesive unit towards attracting national fund-raising. Caitlyn explains how she developed her relationship with a local builder and she discusses her business model for 2018. Caitlyn's dream solution to the general difficulty that many designers experience in finding sub-contractors to execute their work. Some tips from Caitlyn about the way that her finances are handled with Joe, the builder that she works with. The freedom that Caitlyn experiences through the kind of work that she does with Joe. Caitlyn discusses some of the challenges that she deals within her 'spec' design projects. Some awesome advice about having a successful initial conversation with a builder who you may want to build a relationship with. Resources: If you would like to donate towards the awesome Savvy Giving By Design project, you can go to their donate page on Savvy Giving By Design.org Go to My Doma Studio to sign up for a 30 Day Free Trial with My Doma Studio. Upon signing up for the trial, you will receive 20% off your subscription, as a listener of the podcast.   Mon, 15 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show. Our guest for today is Caitlyn Waite, an interior designer from Mobile Alabama. Caitlyn has been chosen to head up the very first affiliate chapter of Savvy Giving By Design, a really wonderful organization started by with a... Welcome to today's show. Our guest for today is Caitlyn Waite, an interior designer from Mobile Alabama. Caitlyn has been chosen to head up the very first affiliate chapter of Savvy Giving By Design, a really wonderful organization started by Susan Wintersteen (#164) with a mission to provide comfort, healing, and support to families with a child facing a medical crisis. This is done by transforming the interior space of the bedrooms of the child and their siblings, at no cost to the family. Listen in to find out more. Also, through her interior design business, Caitlyn has developed a relationship with a builder and she already has twelve confirmed projects lined up with him for 2018. Today she talks in detail about how this relationship came about and also about the kind of things that you, as designers, really need to know if you would like to duplicate in your design firm what Caitlyn has done in hers. Listen in today to find out more about Caitlyn's approach to cultivating valuable relationships with builders in order to create a really successful design form. Show highlights: How Caitlyn initially came to hear about Savvy Giving By Design through this podcast. The whole legal process that Caitlyn went through in order to become set up with Savvy Giving By Design. Caitlyn talks about her very first Savvy Giving project. The story of Caitlyn's daughter's Angel's Kiss. How Caitlyn found Georgia, the first child who's room she will be transforming. The unforeseen difficulties that Caitlyn experienced in finding nominees for the Savvy Giving project and what Susan Wintersteen has done to help overcome this. The kind of fund-raising that Caitlyn has done for the project- and how you can also get involved by making a donation. There are even some tradespeople who are willing to donate their time to this project. The way that Caitlyn works with the children to create a space for them that they will really love. How this project differs from a standard design project. The way that Savvy Giving is working as a cohesive unit towards attracting national fund-raising. Caitlyn explains how she developed her relationship with a local builder and she discusses her business model for 2018. Caitlyn's dream solution to the general difficulty that many designers experience in finding sub-contractors to execute their work. Some tips from Caitlyn about the way that her finances are handled with Joe, the builder that she works with. The freedom that Caitlyn experiences through the kind of work that she does with Joe. Caitlyn discusses some of the challenges that she deals within her 'spec' design projects. Some awesome advice about having a successful initial conversation with a builder who you may want to build a relationship with. Resources: If you would like to donate towards the awesome Savvy Giving By Design project, you can go to their donate page on Savvy Giving By Design.org Go to My Doma Studio to sign up for a 30 Day Free Trial with My Doma Studio. Upon signing up for the trial, you will receive 20% off your subscription, as a listener of the podcast.   Welcome to today's show. Our guest for today is Caitlyn Waite, an interior designer from Mobile Alabama. Caitlyn has been chosen to head up the very first affiliate chapter of Savvy Giving By Design, a really wonderful organization started by Susan Wintersteen (#164) with a mission to provide comfort, healing, and support to families with a child facing a medical crisis. This is done by transforming the interior space of the bedrooms of the child and their siblings, at no cost to the family. Listen in to find out more.

Also, through her interior design business, Caitlyn has developed a relationship with a builder and she already has twelve confirmed projects lined up with him for 2018. Today she talks in detail about how this relationship came about and also about the kind of things that you, as designers, really need to know if you would like to duplicate in your design firm what Caitlyn has done in hers. Listen in today to find out more about Caitlyn's approach to cultivating valuable relationships with builders in order to create a really successful design form.

Show highlights:

  • How Caitlyn initially came to hear about Savvy Giving By Design through this podcast.
  • The whole legal process that Caitlyn went through in order to become set up with Savvy Giving By Design.
  • Caitlyn talks about her very first Savvy Giving project.
  • The story of Caitlyn's daughter's Angel's Kiss.
  • How Caitlyn found Georgia, the first child who's room she will be transforming.
  • The unforeseen difficulties that Caitlyn experienced in finding nominees for the Savvy Giving project and what Susan Wintersteen has done to help overcome this.
  • The kind of fund-raising that Caitlyn has done for the project- and how you can also get involved by making a donation.
  • There are even some tradespeople who are willing to donate their time to this project.
  • The way that Caitlyn works with the children to create a space for them that they will really love.
  • How this project differs from a standard design project.
  • The way that Savvy Giving is working as a cohesive unit towards attracting national fund-raising.
  • Caitlyn explains how she developed her relationship with a local builder and she discusses her business model for 2018.
  • Caitlyn's dream solution to the general difficulty that many designers experience in finding sub-contractors to execute their work.
  • Some tips from Caitlyn about the way that her finances are handled with Joe, the builder that she works with.
  • The freedom that Caitlyn experiences through the kind of work that she does with Joe.
  • Caitlyn discusses some of the challenges that she deals within her 'spec' design projects.
  • Some awesome advice about having a successful initial conversation with a builder who you may want to build a relationship with.

Resources:

If you would like to donate towards the awesome Savvy Giving By Design project, you can go to their donate page on Savvy Giving By Design.org

Go to My Doma Studio to sign up for a 30 Day Free Trial with My Doma Studio. Upon signing up for the trial, you will receive 20% off your subscription, as a listener of the podcast.

 

]]> 4487 no 283: Power Talk Friday: Madeleine MacRae: Set Clear Goals in 5 Steps http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/283-power-talk-friday-madeleine-macrae-set-clear-goals-in-5-steps Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday. We are really happy to introduce you to today's guest, Madeleine Macrae. Madeleine and LuAnn are going to be co-presenters at the International Window Coverings Expo in Tampa Florida this March. Listen in today to find out more about Madeleine, why she's here on the show and why she's been invited to present at the Window Coverings Expo. Madeleine is the highly motivated CEO, founder and chief innovator for M MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm which focuses on the development and growth of pros and companies in the home professionals industry. More than thirteen years ago Madeleine developed a time-tested process and also a language for bridging the gap between the needs and expectations of the corporate world and the needs and expectations of their greatest asset- the pros out in the field. In Madeleine's bio she says that she is connected and responsive, she has a three hundred and sixty-degree view and understanding of objectives, goals, and stakes and that she derives her energy from educating, inspiring and leading her clients. Listen in today, to find out what Madeleine has to share with you about creating really effective and manageable goals, both for your business and for yourself personally. Show highlights: The joint goal setting seminar that LuAnn and Madeleine will be doing. The Five Days To Goals training that Madeleine does and offers to her clients. Madeleine explains her philosophy around goal setting and she discusses how she arrived at her Five Days To Goals training. Madeleine explains the steps that are involved in the goals training that she offers her clients. Stop beating yourself up with the stick of blame. How to do the Data Dump. The value in keeping notes about the things you intend to do. What you could gain by doing things as tasks, rather than as projects. A sophisticated neuro-trick to use when making your lists. The amount of information that comes at us, compared with what we can actually focus on. Getting really clear about what you want in your life. A smart way to work out what your priorities really are. The hardest step for people to accept. Daring to dream about what you really want! The difference between a goal and a task. Breaking your goal down into achievable milestones. You really know so much more than you think you know! Madeleine's Daily Blueprint- a really fantastic tool for attaining your goals. Links: To find out more information about the International Window Coverings Expo, go to: IWCE Vision To get access to some of Madeleine's goals training absolutely free go to: Fast Track Sales Systems Fri, 12 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday. We are really happy to introduce you to today's guest, Madeleine Macrae. Madeleine and LuAnn are going to be co-presenters at the International Window Coverings Expo in Tampa Florida this March. Listen in today to... Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday. We are really happy to introduce you to today's guest, Madeleine Macrae. Madeleine and LuAnn are going to be co-presenters at the International Window Coverings Expo in Tampa Florida this March. Listen in today to find out more about Madeleine, why she's here on the show and why she's been invited to present at the Window Coverings Expo. Madeleine is the highly motivated CEO, founder and chief innovator for M MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm which focuses on the development and growth of pros and companies in the home professionals industry. More than thirteen years ago Madeleine developed a time-tested process and also a language for bridging the gap between the needs and expectations of the corporate world and the needs and expectations of their greatest asset- the pros out in the field. In Madeleine's bio she says that she is connected and responsive, she has a three hundred and sixty-degree view and understanding of objectives, goals, and stakes and that she derives her energy from educating, inspiring and leading her clients. Listen in today, to find out what Madeleine has to share with you about creating really effective and manageable goals, both for your business and for yourself personally. Show highlights: The joint goal setting seminar that LuAnn and Madeleine will be doing. The Five Days To Goals training that Madeleine does and offers to her clients. Madeleine explains her philosophy around goal setting and she discusses how she arrived at her Five Days To Goals training. Madeleine explains the steps that are involved in the goals training that she offers her clients. Stop beating yourself up with the stick of blame. How to do the Data Dump. The value in keeping notes about the things you intend to do. What you could gain by doing things as tasks, rather than as projects. A sophisticated neuro-trick to use when making your lists. The amount of information that comes at us, compared with what we can actually focus on. Getting really clear about what you want in your life. A smart way to work out what your priorities really are. The hardest step for people to accept. Daring to dream about what you really want! The difference between a goal and a task. Breaking your goal down into achievable milestones. You really know so much more than you think you know! Madeleine's Daily Blueprint- a really fantastic tool for attaining your goals. Links: To find out more information about the International Window Coverings Expo, go to: IWCE Vision To get access to some of Madeleine's goals training absolutely free go to: Fast Track Sales Systems Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday. We are really happy to introduce you to today's guest, Madeleine Macrae. Madeleine and LuAnn are going to be co-presenters at the International Window Coverings Expo in Tampa Florida this March. Listen in today to find out more about Madeleine, why she's here on the show and why she's been invited to present at the Window Coverings Expo.

Madeleine is the highly motivated CEO, founder and chief innovator for M MacRae, a national learning, coaching and consulting firm which focuses on the development and growth of pros and companies in the home professionals industry. More than thirteen years ago Madeleine developed a time-tested process and also a language for bridging the gap between the needs and expectations of the corporate world and the needs and expectations of their greatest asset- the pros out in the field. In Madeleine's bio she says that she is connected and responsive, she has a three hundred and sixty-degree view and understanding of objectives, goals, and stakes and that she derives her energy from educating, inspiring and leading her clients. Listen in today, to find out what Madeleine has to share with you about creating really effective and manageable goals, both for your business and for yourself personally.

Show highlights:

  • The joint goal setting seminar that LuAnn and Madeleine will be doing.
  • The Five Days To Goals training that Madeleine does and offers to her clients.
  • Madeleine explains her philosophy around goal setting and she discusses how she arrived at her Five Days To Goals training.
  • Madeleine explains the steps that are involved in the goals training that she offers her clients.
  • Stop beating yourself up with the stick of blame.
  • How to do the Data Dump.
  • The value in keeping notes about the things you intend to do.
  • What you could gain by doing things as tasks, rather than as projects.
  • A sophisticated neuro-trick to use when making your lists.
  • The amount of information that comes at us, compared with what we can actually focus on.
  • Getting really clear about what you want in your life.
  • A smart way to work out what your priorities really are.
  • The hardest step for people to accept.
  • Daring to dream about what you really want!
  • The difference between a goal and a task.
  • Breaking your goal down into achievable milestones.
  • You really know so much more than you think you know!
  • Madeleine's Daily Blueprint- a really fantastic tool for attaining your goals.

Links:

To find out more information about the International Window Coverings Expo, go to: IWCE Vision

To get access to some of Madeleine's goals training absolutely free go to: Fast Track Sales Systems

]]> 4523 no 282: Blanche Garcia - You Teach Clients How to Treat You http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/282-blanche-garcia-you-teach-clients-how-to-treat-you Today's guest is Blanche Garcia, a certified interior designer with more than eighteen years of experience in commercial and residential design. Blanche is one of the principal designers featured in the Travel Channel reality series Hotel Impossible and she was also a contestant in season six of HGTV Design Star. Blanche owns a design business and she also does a lot of speaking at design industry events, where she shares her proven methods for 'surviving' her interior design business. On the show today she will be discussing how she runs the business side of things, so listen in to find out more. Blanche is the owner of B. Garcia Designs which is based in Montclair New Jersey. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and she's also a 'Green Design' LEED Accredited Professional through the United States Green Building Commission. Listen in today as Blanche discusses her really focused approach to running a successful design business. Show highlights: How Blanche ended up doing so much public speaking for the design industry. Where Blanche finds the time to do everything that she does. What helped her to learn to figure everything out really quickly. A simple way to teach people how to treat you. Putting up parameters in order to maintain professional control. Taking the pain out of the whole billing structure. Having the right kind of agreement with your client. Giving yourself the time to be creative. How Blanche assesses what the budget of a project should be. The importance of clear communication. The insane amount of purchases that are going through Blanche's office. Blanche's remarkable time management. Her disciplined and focused approach to her work. Resources: Her website: B Garcia Designs Her Book Link: Empowered Design Instagram Link: Instagram Twitter Link: Twitter Facebook Link: Facebook Photo Credit: Ciara Perrone Wed, 10 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest is Blanche Garcia, a certified interior designer with more than eighteen years of experience in commercial and residential design. Blanche is one of the principal designers featured in the Travel Channel reality series Hotel Impossible... Today's guest is Blanche Garcia, a certified interior designer with more than eighteen years of experience in commercial and residential design. Blanche is one of the principal designers featured in the Travel Channel reality series Hotel Impossible and she was also a contestant in season six of HGTV Design Star. Blanche owns a design business and she also does a lot of speaking at design industry events, where she shares her proven methods for 'surviving' her interior design business. On the show today she will be discussing how she runs the business side of things, so listen in to find out more. Blanche is the owner of B. Garcia Designs which is based in Montclair New Jersey. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and she's also a 'Green Design' LEED Accredited Professional through the United States Green Building Commission. Listen in today as Blanche discusses her really focused approach to running a successful design business. Show highlights: How Blanche ended up doing so much public speaking for the design industry. Where Blanche finds the time to do everything that she does. What helped her to learn to figure everything out really quickly. A simple way to teach people how to treat you. Putting up parameters in order to maintain professional control. Taking the pain out of the whole billing structure. Having the right kind of agreement with your client. Giving yourself the time to be creative. How Blanche assesses what the budget of a project should be. The importance of clear communication. The insane amount of purchases that are going through Blanche's office. Blanche's remarkable time management. Her disciplined and focused approach to her work. Resources: Her website: B Garcia Designs Her Book Link: Empowered Design Instagram Link: Instagram Twitter Link: Twitter Facebook Link: Facebook Photo Credit: Ciara Perrone Today's guest is Blanche Garcia, a certified interior designer with more than eighteen years of experience in commercial and residential design. Blanche is one of the principal designers featured in the Travel Channel reality series Hotel Impossible and she was also a contestant in season six of HGTV Design Star. Blanche owns a design business and she also does a lot of speaking at design industry events, where she shares her proven methods for 'surviving' her interior design business. On the show today she will be discussing how she runs the business side of things, so listen in to find out more.

Blanche is the owner of B. Garcia Designs which is based in Montclair New Jersey. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and she's also a 'Green Design' LEED Accredited Professional through the United States Green Building Commission. Listen in today as Blanche discusses her really focused approach to running a successful design business.

Show highlights:

  • How Blanche ended up doing so much public speaking for the design industry.
  • Where Blanche finds the time to do everything that she does.
  • What helped her to learn to figure everything out really quickly.
  • A simple way to teach people how to treat you.
  • Putting up parameters in order to maintain professional control.
  • Taking the pain out of the whole billing structure.
  • Having the right kind of agreement with your client.
  • Giving yourself the time to be creative.
  • How Blanche assesses what the budget of a project should be.
  • The importance of clear communication.
  • The insane amount of purchases that are going through Blanche's office.
  • Blanche's remarkable time management.
  • Her disciplined and focused approach to her work.

Resources:

Her website: B Garcia Designs

Her Book Link: Empowered Design

Instagram Link: Instagram

Twitter Link: Twitter

Facebook Link: Facebook

Photo Credit: Ciara Perrone

]]> 4826 no 281: Anita Dawson: How to Work with Architects & Builders Successfully http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/281-anita-dawson-how-to-work-with-architects-builders-successfully We have Anita Dawson with us on the show today. She is the president and owner of the Dawson Design Group, a full-service interior design firm based in San Diego Southern California. DDG specializes in all things modern, and since 2007 they have completed more than a hundred projects in Southern California, Chicago, and Atlanta. They have been awarded The Design Impact Award and Design Excellence Award by the American Society of Interior Designers; multiple Home of the Year awards from San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles and also an Award of Excellence- Architectural Rehabilitation award from the City of San Diego Historical Resources Board. Anita has a really unique and interesting story to tell, so listen in today, to find out what she has to share with you. Anita founded Dawson Design Group to fulfill her true calling in a creative and hands-on environment after her previous successful careers in the performing and visual arts. Anita's clients gravitate towards the relaxed style and clean-lined approach that she has perfected in her design over the last decade. She and her team at DDG provide homeowners with sophisticated and interesting spaces which are unique to each client. Anita has been featured in HGTV's Professional Network and she is a Houzz.com influencer and a member of Design Trust Ltd, which is an exclusive group of leading interior designers across the country. Listen in today as Anita shares some actionable ways for you to make yourself really valuable as a member of a full-service design team. Show highlights: How Anita's firm got to be the type of firm that does the bigger projects. The way that Anita's maturity has contributed towards her level of comfort around high net worth clients. The importance of being able to give really clear direction to your contractor to communicate what you want to have built. Developing the kind confidence that's necessary in order to get to the next level. The value of not being afraid to say that you don't know something. Developing collaborative relationships with experts in certain fields, so that you can give up your control in those areas in order to make for a better overall project. Some lessons that Anita learned while she was leasing a workspace within the space of an architect, who ended up becoming an informal mentor to her. Some of the really helpful people that Anita hired, in the beginning, to help her set her business systems up. The kind of marketing that Anita did in the first three to four years of her business. The value of using 'printed marketing' in conjunction with Instagram. Anita's way of fast-tracking herself, while still maintaining her niche market. How Anita managed to start attracting the kind of clients who are aligned with her values, through her whimsical and humorous style of advertising when she started out. Some of the ways that Anita gave some value back to the architect who became her informal mentor in the beginning. Some tips on how you as a designer can really bring value to the builders that you work with. The importance of having a really great team for high-quality projects. It's okay to boost your photo shoots with some accessories that you bring along yourself- the client may even want to buy them if they really enhance the space! Why you really need to be physically present at all your photo shoots. Building great relationships with your vendors is really very important for your business! Links: Things I learned from Anita Dawson: https://luannnigara.com/anita/ Her website: http://dawsondesigngroup.com Anita's Social: Instagram Facebook Twitter.com Linkedin Linkedin Mon, 08 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Anita Dawson with us on the show today. She is the president and owner of the Dawson Design Group, a full-service interior design firm based in San Diego Southern California. DDG specializes in all things modern, and since 2007 they have... We have Anita Dawson with us on the show today. She is the president and owner of the Dawson Design Group, a full-service interior design firm based in San Diego Southern California. DDG specializes in all things modern, and since 2007 they have completed more than a hundred projects in Southern California, Chicago, and Atlanta. They have been awarded The Design Impact Award and Design Excellence Award by the American Society of Interior Designers; multiple Home of the Year awards from San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles and also an Award of Excellence- Architectural Rehabilitation award from the City of San Diego Historical Resources Board. Anita has a really unique and interesting story to tell, so listen in today, to find out what she has to share with you. Anita founded Dawson Design Group to fulfill her true calling in a creative and hands-on environment after her previous successful careers in the performing and visual arts. Anita's clients gravitate towards the relaxed style and clean-lined approach that she has perfected in her design over the last decade. She and her team at DDG provide homeowners with sophisticated and interesting spaces which are unique to each client. Anita has been featured in HGTV's Professional Network and she is a Houzz.com influencer and a member of Design Trust Ltd, which is an exclusive group of leading interior designers across the country. Listen in today as Anita shares some actionable ways for you to make yourself really valuable as a member of a full-service design team. Show highlights: How Anita's firm got to be the type of firm that does the bigger projects. The way that Anita's maturity has contributed towards her level of comfort around high net worth clients. The importance of being able to give really clear direction to your contractor to communicate what you want to have built. Developing the kind confidence that's necessary in order to get to the next level. The value of not being afraid to say that you don't know something. Developing collaborative relationships with experts in certain fields, so that you can give up your control in those areas in order to make for a better overall project. Some lessons that Anita learned while she was leasing a workspace within the space of an architect, who ended up becoming an informal mentor to her. Some of the really helpful people that Anita hired, in the beginning, to help her set her business systems up. The kind of marketing that Anita did in the first three to four years of her business. The value of using 'printed marketing' in conjunction with Instagram. Anita's way of fast-tracking herself, while still maintaining her niche market. How Anita managed to start attracting the kind of clients who are aligned with her values, through her whimsical and humorous style of advertising when she started out. Some of the ways that Anita gave some value back to the architect who became her informal mentor in the beginning. Some tips on how you as a designer can really bring value to the builders that you work with. The importance of having a really great team for high-quality projects. It's okay to boost your photo shoots with some accessories that you bring along yourself- the client may even want to buy them if they really enhance the space! Why you really need to be physically present at all your photo shoots. Building great relationships with your vendors is really very important for your business! Links: Things I learned from Anita Dawson: https://luannnigara.com/anita/ Her website: http://dawsondesigngroup.com Anita's Social: Instagram Facebook Twitter.com Linkedin Linkedin We have Anita Dawson with us on the show today. She is the president and owner of the Dawson Design Group, a full-service interior design firm based in San Diego Southern California. DDG specializes in all things modern, and since 2007 they have completed more than a hundred projects in Southern California, Chicago, and Atlanta. They have been awarded The Design Impact Award and Design Excellence Award by the American Society of Interior Designers; multiple Home of the Year awards from San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles and also an Award of Excellence- Architectural Rehabilitation award from the City of San Diego Historical Resources Board. Anita has a really unique and interesting story to tell, so listen in today, to find out what she has to share with you.

Anita founded Dawson Design Group to fulfill her true calling in a creative and hands-on environment after her previous successful careers in the performing and visual arts. Anita's clients gravitate towards the relaxed style and clean-lined approach that she has perfected in her design over the last decade. She and her team at DDG provide homeowners with sophisticated and interesting spaces which are unique to each client. Anita has been featured in HGTV's Professional Network and she is a Houzz.com influencer and a member of Design Trust Ltd, which is an exclusive group of leading interior designers across the country. Listen in today as Anita shares some actionable ways for you to make yourself really valuable as a member of a full-service design team.

Show highlights:

  • How Anita's firm got to be the type of firm that does the bigger projects.
  • The way that Anita's maturity has contributed towards her level of comfort around high net worth clients.
  • The importance of being able to give really clear direction to your contractor to communicate what you want to have built.
  • Developing the kind confidence that's necessary in order to get to the next level.
  • The value of not being afraid to say that you don't know something.
  • Developing collaborative relationships with experts in certain fields, so that you can give up your control in those areas in order to make for a better overall project.
  • Some lessons that Anita learned while she was leasing a workspace within the space of an architect, who ended up becoming an informal mentor to her.
  • Some of the really helpful people that Anita hired, in the beginning, to help her set her business systems up.
  • The kind of marketing that Anita did in the first three to four years of her business.
  • The value of using 'printed marketing' in conjunction with Instagram.
  • Anita's way of fast-tracking herself, while still maintaining her niche market.
  • How Anita managed to start attracting the kind of clients who are aligned with her values, through her whimsical and humorous style of advertising when she started out.
  • Some of the ways that Anita gave some value back to the architect who became her informal mentor in the beginning.
  • Some tips on how you as a designer can really bring value to the builders that you work with.
  • The importance of having a really great team for high-quality projects.
  • It's okay to boost your photo shoots with some accessories that you bring along yourself- the client may even want to buy them if they really enhance the space!
  • Why you really need to be physically present at all your photo shoots.
  • Building great relationships with your vendors is really very important for your business!

Links: Things I learned from Anita Dawson:

https://luannnigara.com/anita/

Her website: http://dawsondesigngroup.com Anita's Social: Instagram Facebook Twitter.com Linkedin Linkedin]]> 4099 no 280: Power Talk Friday - Adam Urbanski: Dream Business Design Process - How to identify what you want most to sell to your most ideal client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-adam-urbanski-dream-business-design-process-how-to-identify-what-you-want-most-to-sell-to-your-most-ideal-client The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go-to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!   Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you're really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies. Links: Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook Fri, 05 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go-to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!   Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you're really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies. Links: Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients.

Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go-to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!

 

Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about:

  • Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach.
  • What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on.
  • How he discovered his ideal clients.
  • That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design!
  • That marketing is really all about listening.
  • Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them.
  • Finding your specific magic, as a Designer.
  • Thinking about your dream income, per client.
  • Identifying your dream project.
  • Identifying the characteristics of your dream client.
  • What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower)
  • Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project.
  • Expressing what you're really good at to your client.
  • Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business.
  • Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients.
  • Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year.
  • Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
  • That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies.

Links:

Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com

Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook

]]> 4041 no 279: Candy Scott: Practical Advice to Launch, Grow and Sustain Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/279-candy-scott-practical-advice-to-launch-grow-and-sustain-your-interior-design-firm My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors. Show highlights: Candy’s background and experience after design school Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again” The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama” Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build How the design phase and the build phase differ Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want Why you must attend networking events Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go Developing relationships with realtors Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!) Resources: Candy’s website and blog: www.modddesignbuild.com Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_ Her Social: https://www.instagram.com/mooddesignbuild/ https://www.facebook.com/candy.scott.754 https://www.linkedin.com/in/candy-scott-049b1ba/ Wed, 03 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both... My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors. Show highlights: Candy’s background and experience after design school Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again” The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama” Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build How the design phase and the build phase differ Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want Why you must attend networking events Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go Developing relationships with realtors Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!) Resources: Candy’s website and blog: www.modddesignbuild.com Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_ Her Social: https://www.instagram.com/mooddesignbuild/ https://www.facebook.com/candy.scott.754 https://www.linkedin.com/in/candy-scott-049b1ba/ My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors.

Show highlights:

  • Candy’s background and experience after design school
  • Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business
  • Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again”
  • The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama”
  • Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality
  • Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear
  • The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build
  • How the design phase and the build phase differ
  • Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data
  • How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want
  • Why you must attend networking events
  • Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go
  • Developing relationships with realtors
  • Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!)

Resources:

Candy’s website and blog:

www.modddesignbuild.com

Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_

Her Social: https://www.instagram.com/mooddesignbuild/ https://www.facebook.com/candy.scott.754 https://www.linkedin.com/in/candy-scott-049b1ba/]]> 4402 no 278: Erika Ward - Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/278-erika-ward-master-business-skills-1st-interior-design-skills-2nd On today’s show, we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot! Links: Her website and social: http://erikaward.com https://www.instagram.com/mrserikaward/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-ward-09a524a/ https://twitter.com/search?q=erika%20ward&src=typd Mon, 01 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On today’s show, we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in... On today’s show, we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot! Links: Her website and social: http://erikaward.com https://www.instagram.com/mrserikaward/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-ward-09a524a/ https://twitter.com/search?q=erika%20ward&src=typd On today’s show, we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot!

Links:

Her website and social: http://erikaward.com https://www.instagram.com/mrserikaward/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-ward-09a524a/ https://twitter.com/search?q=erika%20ward&src=typd]]> 3432 no 277: Stephanie Chung - You Are a Salesperson and You Are an Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/277-stephanie-chung-you-are-a-salesperson-and-you-are-an-interior-designer Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company. Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales. Show highlights: What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle. Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation. It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you. Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service. Run your business with excellence. If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time. Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need. Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need. Use the power of silence. Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence. Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message. Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity. Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem. After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you. Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple) Links: Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there. To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com Fri, 29 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business... Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company. Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales. Show highlights: What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle. Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation. It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you. Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service. Run your business with excellence. If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time. Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need. Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need. Use the power of silence. Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence. Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message. Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity. Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem. After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you. Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple) Links: Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there. To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company.

Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales.

Show highlights:

  • What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle.
  • Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation.
  • It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you.
  • Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service.
  • Run your business with excellence.
  • If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time.
  • Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need.
  • Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need.
  • Use the power of silence.
  • Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence.
  • Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message.
  • Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity.
  • Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem.
  • After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right
  • If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you.
  • Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple)

Links:

Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there.

To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com

]]> 3756 no 276: Judi Kieffer: Steps to Build a Hospitality / Commercial Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/276-judi-kieffer-steps-to-build-a-hospitality-commercial-interior-design-firm My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top-tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments. She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi! What you’ll hear in this episode: How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects How to find free top sheets in your local area The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE! The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool Clear practices for charging fees Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions Judi’s interest in green building products The recent surge in green products Advice Judi’s received that is still with her: Be absolutely true to your passion Honor yourself Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax Be transparent in communication What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats Resources: Website and social:   http://www.kiefferdesigngroup.com https://www.instagram.com/kiefferdesigngroup/ https://www.facebook.com/Kieffer-Design-Group-92036290457/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kieffer-design-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/judikieffer/ For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz” www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products) Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area Judi recommends the following books: ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt Wed, 27 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top-tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built... My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top-tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments. She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi! What you’ll hear in this episode: How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects How to find free top sheets in your local area The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE! The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool Clear practices for charging fees Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions Judi’s interest in green building products The recent surge in green products Advice Judi’s received that is still with her: Be absolutely true to your passion Honor yourself Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax Be transparent in communication What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats Resources: Website and social:   http://www.kiefferdesigngroup.com https://www.instagram.com/kiefferdesigngroup/ https://www.facebook.com/Kieffer-Design-Group-92036290457/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kieffer-design-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/judikieffer/ For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz” www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products) Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area Judi recommends the following books: ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top-tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments.

She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm
  • The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own
  • What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals
  • What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project
  • How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects
  • How to find free top sheets in your local area
  • The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business
  • Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE!
  • The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team
  • Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars
  • Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool
  • Clear practices for charging fees
  • Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions
  • Judi’s interest in green building products
  • The recent surge in green products
  • Advice Judi’s received that is still with her:
    • Be absolutely true to your passion
    • Honor yourself
    • Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax
    • Be transparent in communication
  • What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats

Resources:

Website and social:   http://www.kiefferdesigngroup.com https://www.instagram.com/kiefferdesigngroup/ https://www.facebook.com/Kieffer-Design-Group-92036290457/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kieffer-design-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/judikieffer/

For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz”

www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products)

Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area

Judi recommends the following books:

ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko

The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien

The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan

Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey

Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski

A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel

Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt

Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt

]]> 5122 no 275: Replay: Andrea Schumacher: Managing a Mid-Size Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/275-replay-andrea-schumacher-managing-a-mid-size-interior-design-firm Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too. Show Notes: She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time? How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm? How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started? Explain how everything is broken down up front! What about the customers that can’t be pleased? When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands? Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins? What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm? Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm? What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm? How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes! What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? What is Design Leadership Network? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  Mon, 25 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and... Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too. Show Notes: She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time? How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm? How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started? Explain how everything is broken down up front! What about the customers that can’t be pleased? When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands? Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins? What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm? Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm? What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm? How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes! What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? What is Design Leadership Network? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too.

Show Notes:

  • She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time?
  • How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm?
  • How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started?
  • Explain how everything is broken down up front!
  • What about the customers that can’t be pleased?
  • When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands?
  • Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins?
  • What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm?
  • Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm?
  • What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm?
  • How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes!
  • What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • What is Design Leadership Network?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 3293 no 274: Power Talk Friday: Kae Whitaker- Part 2 of Email Marketing for your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-kae-whitaker-part-2-of-email-marketing-for-your-interior-design-firm We have Kae Whitaker with us once again on today's Power Talk Friday- this time for her fifth appearance on the show! She appeared previously on episodes #26, #66, #114 where she discussed branding, how to hire and train interns, how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business and last month on episode #259 she spoke about the subject and content of a typical sale funnel email sequence for interior design firms. Today she's back to talk some more about email marketing and she will be explaining how to set up an email marketing system, with some great tips for doing it really effectively. She will also be discussing the main idea of email marketing, the difference between broadcast emails and triggered emails, how your blog actually connects and supports your email marketing and how to segment your list and what to do with the different lists. Listen in to find out more. Kae is the owner and CEO of Kae Whitaker Solutions. She uses her more than ten years of experience in retail sales and marketing development to really focus on helping small businesses to stay competitive in their respective markets and to surpass their revenue goals. Having worked with some of the nation's largest retailers, Kae has now utilized her expertise in retail sales and marketing development to create her premium coaching programs that really assist small business owners to tune into what matters most in their marketing efforts and to streamline their processes while maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come through helping others to reach their goals, and she would love the opportunity to help you to take your brand to the next level, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: How LuAnn initially found Kae through her online reputation. Understanding the type of emails that you're going to send and the categories of emails that exist within those types. The importance of using a different approach when purchasing leads or email lists. Kae's advice is for everybody regardless of the size of your email list. The role of email marketing in the customer journey. Sending different email content to the groups of people who are at different points in the customer journey. The difference between broadcast emails and trigger emails. Segmentation campaigns- what they are and when and how to use them. An example of a trigger email for interior designers. What you need to look for in your email provider. Why segmenting is really so important. How to avoid becoming a victim of the spam monster. What the engagement would look like if you hire someone to set the process up on your behalf. When to use re-engagement campaigns. Ways to grow your email list through intentional engagement. How to target growing your email list geocentrically through the content that you're putting out on social media. Where email marketing fits into marketing funnels. Why it would even be worthwhile to create just one funnel. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Farrha Hyman #43 Cheryl Janis #41 Links: Kae's email: kaewhitaker@kaewhitaker.com Kae's website: http://kaewhitaker.com Fri, 22 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Kae Whitaker with us once again on today's Power Talk Friday- this time for her fifth appearance on the show! She appeared previously on episodes #26, #66, #114 where she discussed branding, how to hire and train interns, how to conduct a... We have Kae Whitaker with us once again on today's Power Talk Friday- this time for her fifth appearance on the show! She appeared previously on episodes #26, #66, #114 where she discussed branding, how to hire and train interns, how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business and last month on episode #259 she spoke about the subject and content of a typical sale funnel email sequence for interior design firms. Today she's back to talk some more about email marketing and she will be explaining how to set up an email marketing system, with some great tips for doing it really effectively. She will also be discussing the main idea of email marketing, the difference between broadcast emails and triggered emails, how your blog actually connects and supports your email marketing and how to segment your list and what to do with the different lists. Listen in to find out more. Kae is the owner and CEO of Kae Whitaker Solutions. She uses her more than ten years of experience in retail sales and marketing development to really focus on helping small businesses to stay competitive in their respective markets and to surpass their revenue goals. Having worked with some of the nation's largest retailers, Kae has now utilized her expertise in retail sales and marketing development to create her premium coaching programs that really assist small business owners to tune into what matters most in their marketing efforts and to streamline their processes while maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come through helping others to reach their goals, and she would love the opportunity to help you to take your brand to the next level, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: How LuAnn initially found Kae through her online reputation. Understanding the type of emails that you're going to send and the categories of emails that exist within those types. The importance of using a different approach when purchasing leads or email lists. Kae's advice is for everybody regardless of the size of your email list. The role of email marketing in the customer journey. Sending different email content to the groups of people who are at different points in the customer journey. The difference between broadcast emails and trigger emails. Segmentation campaigns- what they are and when and how to use them. An example of a trigger email for interior designers. What you need to look for in your email provider. Why segmenting is really so important. How to avoid becoming a victim of the spam monster. What the engagement would look like if you hire someone to set the process up on your behalf. When to use re-engagement campaigns. Ways to grow your email list through intentional engagement. How to target growing your email list geocentrically through the content that you're putting out on social media. Where email marketing fits into marketing funnels. Why it would even be worthwhile to create just one funnel. Previous episodes mentioned on this show: Farrha Hyman #43 Cheryl Janis #41 Links: Kae's email: kaewhitaker@kaewhitaker.com Kae's website: http://kaewhitaker.com We have Kae Whitaker with us once again on today's Power Talk Friday- this time for her fifth appearance on the show! She appeared previously on episodes #26, #66, #114 where she discussed branding, how to hire and train interns, how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business and last month on episode #259 she spoke about the subject and content of a typical sale funnel email sequence for interior design firms. Today she's back to talk some more about email marketing and she will be explaining how to set up an email marketing system, with some great tips for doing it really effectively. She will also be discussing the main idea of email marketing, the difference between broadcast emails and triggered emails, how your blog actually connects and supports your email marketing and how to segment your list and what to do with the different lists. Listen in to find out more.

Kae is the owner and CEO of Kae Whitaker Solutions. She uses her more than ten years of experience in retail sales and marketing development to really focus on helping small businesses to stay competitive in their respective markets and to surpass their revenue goals.

Having worked with some of the nation's largest retailers, Kae has now utilized her expertise in retail sales and marketing development to create her premium coaching programs that really assist small business owners to tune into what matters most in their marketing efforts and to streamline their processes while maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come through helping others to reach their goals, and she would love the opportunity to help you to take your brand to the next level, so listen in to find out what she has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • How LuAnn initially found Kae through her online reputation.
  • Understanding the type of emails that you're going to send and the categories of emails that exist within those types.
  • The importance of using a different approach when purchasing leads or email lists.
  • Kae's advice is for everybody regardless of the size of your email list.
  • The role of email marketing in the customer journey.
  • Sending different email content to the groups of people who are at different points in the customer journey.
  • The difference between broadcast emails and trigger emails.
  • Segmentation campaigns- what they are and when and how to use them.
  • An example of a trigger email for interior designers.
  • What you need to look for in your email provider.
  • Why segmenting is really so important.
  • How to avoid becoming a victim of the spam monster.
  • What the engagement would look like if you hire someone to set the process up on your behalf.
  • When to use re-engagement campaigns.
  • Ways to grow your email list through intentional engagement.
  • How to target growing your email list geocentrically through the content that you're putting out on social media.
  • Where email marketing fits into marketing funnels.
  • Why it would even be worthwhile to create just one funnel.

Previous episodes mentioned on this show:

Farrha Hyman #43

Cheryl Janis #41

Links:

Kae's email: kaewhitaker@kaewhitaker.com

Kae's website: http://kaewhitaker.com

]]> 3132 no 273: Dixie Willard: Visibility and Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/273-dixie-willard-visibility-and-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to today's show! We have Dixie Willard, of Dixie Willard Design in Tennessee, with us today. Dixie is a co-host of the Design and Style Podcast with Rachel Moriarty, of Rachel Moriarty Interiors and today we will be talking to her about the  Design and Style Community and about how her partnership with Rachel and their podcast came about. Today, Dixie also discusses her own business and she talks about the Community Projects that she's involved with too. Listen in, to find out more. Dixie got her Design Degree at the Chaminade University of Honolulu, where she graduated with honors. She has worked for an Architecture Firm as well as having worked as a Designer and a Bookkeeper, for a high-end furniture store and she has done e-design for Pottery Barn Kids, PBTeen, and West Elm. In the middle of all of that, she also managed to earn her NCIDQ Certification. After traveling around the world, Dixie and her Air Force husband have finally settled down in their forever home, in East Tennessee. Dixie loves taking continuing education classes for fun and reading Design Blogs, to keep up with all the latest trends. Listen in today, to find out more about Dixie, her Podcast and how she's really changing lives, out there, one Designer at a time! Show highlights: Dixie talks about what it took for her to obtain her NCIDQ Certification. Dixie's work with Ethan Allen. Dixie's experience of being a Bookkeeper for a high-end furniture store. The skill she's learned from first being an Air Force brat and then an Air Force wife. Their move from Oklahoma to Tennessee, where they knew absolutely no-one. Dixie talks about how she and Rachel met, at a Mastermind in Oklahoma. How the Design and Style Podcast came about. All about Rachel and Dixie's Visibility Challenge. To join the Visibility Challenge, go to Design and Style on Facebook and ask to join. The hardest part of the Visibility Challenge and the fantastic results that inevitably ensue, as a result of doing it. What's going to be happening in Dixie's community, at The Visibility Lab. The very exciting and special episode planned for the first Visibility Podcast for 2018, on the Design and Style Podcast. Moonshine tasting in the Smokey Mountains with Rachel. What happened at the Visibility Conference. The fantastic Community and Service Projects that Dixie does and how she assists, design-wise, at the Restoration House of East Tennessee. How you, as a Designer, can get involved with the Dwell With Dignity The service work that Dixie does, for Kingdom Design Ministries, for children who have suffered a trauma, or tragedy in their life. What it takes to rappel down a twelve story building! The awesome gains that you could enjoy, as a result of being a part of a networking group. Links: The Design and Style Podcast website: www.designandstylepodcast.com Design and Style can also be found on: Instagram Facebook Pinterest iTunes Youtube Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Remya Warrior #266 Wed, 20 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Dixie Willard, of Dixie Willard Design in Tennessee, with us today. Dixie is a co-host of the Design and Style Podcast with Rachel Moriarty, of Rachel Moriarty Interiors and today we will be talking to her about... Welcome to today's show! We have Dixie Willard, of Dixie Willard Design in Tennessee, with us today. Dixie is a co-host of the Design and Style Podcast with Rachel Moriarty, of Rachel Moriarty Interiors and today we will be talking to her about the  Design and Style Community and about how her partnership with Rachel and their podcast came about. Today, Dixie also discusses her own business and she talks about the Community Projects that she's involved with too. Listen in, to find out more. Dixie got her Design Degree at the Chaminade University of Honolulu, where she graduated with honors. She has worked for an Architecture Firm as well as having worked as a Designer and a Bookkeeper, for a high-end furniture store and she has done e-design for Pottery Barn Kids, PBTeen, and West Elm. In the middle of all of that, she also managed to earn her NCIDQ Certification. After traveling around the world, Dixie and her Air Force husband have finally settled down in their forever home, in East Tennessee. Dixie loves taking continuing education classes for fun and reading Design Blogs, to keep up with all the latest trends. Listen in today, to find out more about Dixie, her Podcast and how she's really changing lives, out there, one Designer at a time! Show highlights: Dixie talks about what it took for her to obtain her NCIDQ Certification. Dixie's work with Ethan Allen. Dixie's experience of being a Bookkeeper for a high-end furniture store. The skill she's learned from first being an Air Force brat and then an Air Force wife. Their move from Oklahoma to Tennessee, where they knew absolutely no-one. Dixie talks about how she and Rachel met, at a Mastermind in Oklahoma. How the Design and Style Podcast came about. All about Rachel and Dixie's Visibility Challenge. To join the Visibility Challenge, go to Design and Style on Facebook and ask to join. The hardest part of the Visibility Challenge and the fantastic results that inevitably ensue, as a result of doing it. What's going to be happening in Dixie's community, at The Visibility Lab. The very exciting and special episode planned for the first Visibility Podcast for 2018, on the Design and Style Podcast. Moonshine tasting in the Smokey Mountains with Rachel. What happened at the Visibility Conference. The fantastic Community and Service Projects that Dixie does and how she assists, design-wise, at the Restoration House of East Tennessee. How you, as a Designer, can get involved with the Dwell With Dignity The service work that Dixie does, for Kingdom Design Ministries, for children who have suffered a trauma, or tragedy in their life. What it takes to rappel down a twelve story building! The awesome gains that you could enjoy, as a result of being a part of a networking group. Links: The Design and Style Podcast website: www.designandstylepodcast.com Design and Style can also be found on: Instagram Facebook Pinterest iTunes Youtube Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Remya Warrior #266 Welcome to today's show! We have Dixie Willard, of Dixie Willard Design in Tennessee, with us today. Dixie is a co-host of the Design and Style Podcast with Rachel Moriarty, of Rachel Moriarty Interiors and today we will be talking to her about the  Design and Style Community and about how her partnership with Rachel and their podcast came about. Today, Dixie also discusses her own business and she talks about the Community Projects that she's involved with too. Listen in, to find out more.

Dixie got her Design Degree at the Chaminade University of Honolulu, where she graduated with honors. She has worked for an Architecture Firm as well as having worked as a Designer and a Bookkeeper, for a high-end furniture store and she has done e-design for Pottery Barn Kids, PBTeen, and West Elm. In the middle of all of that, she also managed to earn her NCIDQ Certification.

After traveling around the world, Dixie and her Air Force husband have finally settled down in their forever home, in East Tennessee. Dixie loves taking continuing education classes for fun and reading Design Blogs, to keep up with all the latest trends. Listen in today, to find out more about Dixie, her Podcast and how she's really changing lives, out there, one Designer at a time!

Show highlights:

  • Dixie talks about what it took for her to obtain her NCIDQ Certification.
  • Dixie's work with Ethan Allen.
  • Dixie's experience of being a Bookkeeper for a high-end furniture store.
  • The skill she's learned from first being an Air Force brat and then an Air Force wife.
  • Their move from Oklahoma to Tennessee, where they knew absolutely no-one.
  • Dixie talks about how she and Rachel met, at a Mastermind in Oklahoma.
  • How the Design and Style Podcast came about.
  • All about Rachel and Dixie's Visibility Challenge.
  • To join the Visibility Challenge, go to Design and Style on Facebook and ask to join.
  • The hardest part of the Visibility Challenge and the fantastic results that inevitably ensue, as a result of doing it.
  • What's going to be happening in Dixie's community, at The Visibility Lab.
  • The very exciting and special episode planned for the first Visibility Podcast for 2018, on the Design and Style Podcast.
  • Moonshine tasting in the Smokey Mountains with Rachel.
  • What happened at the Visibility Conference.
  • The fantastic Community and Service Projects that Dixie does and how she assists, design-wise, at the Restoration House of East Tennessee.
  • How you, as a Designer, can get involved with the Dwell With Dignity
  • The service work that Dixie does, for Kingdom Design Ministries, for children who have suffered a trauma, or tragedy in their life.
  • What it takes to rappel down a twelve story building!
  • The awesome gains that you could enjoy, as a result of being a part of a networking group.

Links:

The Design and Style Podcast website: www.designandstylepodcast.com

Design and Style can also be found on: Instagram Facebook Pinterest iTunes Youtube

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Remya Warrior #266

]]> 4576 no 272: Laura Thurman: Tips for Building Relationships with Industry Peers & Leaders http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/272-laura-thurman-tips-for-building-relationships-with-industry-peers-leaders Today’s guest is Laura Thurman of Laura Thurman Design Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. She specializes in a global aesthetic that is filtered through a modern lens influenced by her upbringing in Los Angeles, as well as her world travels. Laura Thurman Design Studio services include custom interiors, re-design, weekend styling, and in-field developer selections. Laura talks about the importance of educating clients about the interior design process. To that end, she explains on her website to clients and potential clients the difference between “off the shelf” and “custom made.” We also discuss how she is harnessing the power of building meaningful relationships with peers and industry leaders in helping to grow her firm. In fact, our meeting is a direct result of her commitment to getting out her “box,” reaching out and asking for advice, and for remembering to return the favor. Laura is always thinking of ways to give value back to the new colleagues and mentors she has met. Laura is a delight, and I’m sure you will like her and learn much from what she has to share about intentional networking. What you’ll hear in this episode: How doors have opened recently because of networking and building professional relationships What Laura has learned from Amy Flurry’s book, Recipe for Press: Designer Edition: How to pitch an idea Why you need to do your homework How each project has multiple offshoots Giving serious thought to your WHY How to tactfully cultivate peer relationships, beginning with being intentionally present Why “thick skin” is important for entrepreneurs to cultivate How social media helps with networking How doors open when you “put it out there” Educating the client: Mainstream and retail = “off the shelf” Quality and exclusive = “to the trade” Resources: Episode 108, Amy Flurry Episode 203, Darla Powell Recipe for Press: Designer Edition, by Amy Flurry Mon, 18 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s guest is Laura Thurman of Laura Thurman Design Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. She specializes in a global aesthetic that is filtered through a modern lens influenced by her upbringing in Los Angeles, as well as her world travels. Laura... Today’s guest is Laura Thurman of Laura Thurman Design Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. She specializes in a global aesthetic that is filtered through a modern lens influenced by her upbringing in Los Angeles, as well as her world travels. Laura Thurman Design Studio services include custom interiors, re-design, weekend styling, and in-field developer selections. Laura talks about the importance of educating clients about the interior design process. To that end, she explains on her website to clients and potential clients the difference between “off the shelf” and “custom made.” We also discuss how she is harnessing the power of building meaningful relationships with peers and industry leaders in helping to grow her firm. In fact, our meeting is a direct result of her commitment to getting out her “box,” reaching out and asking for advice, and for remembering to return the favor. Laura is always thinking of ways to give value back to the new colleagues and mentors she has met. Laura is a delight, and I’m sure you will like her and learn much from what she has to share about intentional networking. What you’ll hear in this episode: How doors have opened recently because of networking and building professional relationships What Laura has learned from Amy Flurry’s book, Recipe for Press: Designer Edition: How to pitch an idea Why you need to do your homework How each project has multiple offshoots Giving serious thought to your WHY How to tactfully cultivate peer relationships, beginning with being intentionally present Why “thick skin” is important for entrepreneurs to cultivate How social media helps with networking How doors open when you “put it out there” Educating the client: Mainstream and retail = “off the shelf” Quality and exclusive = “to the trade” Resources: Episode 108, Amy Flurry Episode 203, Darla Powell Recipe for Press: Designer Edition, by Amy Flurry Today’s guest is Laura Thurman of Laura Thurman Design Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. She specializes in a global aesthetic that is filtered through a modern lens influenced by her upbringing in Los Angeles, as well as her world travels. Laura Thurman Design Studio services include custom interiors, re-design, weekend styling, and in-field developer selections. Laura talks about the importance of educating clients about the interior design process. To that end, she explains on her website to clients and potential clients the difference between “off the shelf” and “custom made.” We also discuss how she is harnessing the power of building meaningful relationships with peers and industry leaders in helping to grow her firm. In fact, our meeting is a direct result of her commitment to getting out her “box,” reaching out and asking for advice, and for remembering to return the favor. Laura is always thinking of ways to give value back to the new colleagues and mentors she has met. Laura is a delight, and I’m sure you will like her and learn much from what she has to share about intentional networking.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How doors have opened recently because of networking and building professional relationships
  • What Laura has learned from Amy Flurry’s book, Recipe for Press: Designer Edition:
    • How to pitch an idea
    • Why you need to do your homework
    • How each project has multiple offshoots
  • Giving serious thought to your WHY
  • How to tactfully cultivate peer relationships, beginning with being intentionally present
  • Why “thick skin” is important for entrepreneurs to cultivate
  • How social media helps with networking
  • How doors open when you “put it out there”
  • Educating the client:
    • Mainstream and retail = “off the shelf”
    • Quality and exclusive = “to the trade”

Resources:

Episode 108, Amy Flurry

Episode 203, Darla Powell

Recipe for Press: Designer Edition, by Amy Flurry

]]> 3626 no 271: Power Talk Friday: Husband & Wife Teams- This Week is LuAnn & Vin Nigara http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/271-power-talk-friday-husband-wife-teams-this-week-is-luann-vin-nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a really special treat in store for you today - her husband, Vince will be joining her on the show! LuAnn has recently had a lot of people asking her to address the topic of husband and wife teams, working together. She recently interviewed Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee (#270) and there are also a few more interviews scheduled with husband and wife teams, which are to be aired in the near future. Vince has already appeared on the show once before, where he talked to LuAnn about the kind of advice that he would give to new entrepreneurs just starting out in their business. He discussed establishing a mission, core values and also systems. So if you're interested in finding out more about any of that, please go back and listen to episode #78. Today, LuAnn and Vince will be talking about how they've managed to be in business together for so many years, and still, like (let alone love) each other! Listen in to find out more! Vince is the brains behind the finances at Window Works, with a degree in Accounting and also an MBA in Business. He has been the fearless leader at Window Works for thirty-five years this December and he has achieved a very recognizable level of stature within their Window Treatment and Awning community. He has served on a number of Marketing and Operations Advisory Boards, for Window Works and for Dorosol (The Awning Company that they use most often) and he served for just less than two years as the Vice President of Franchise Sales, for Decorating Den. Listen in today, to find out more about how Vince and LuAnn have managed to work together, really successfully, for so long. Show highlights: Vince shares some of the core reasons that he thinks they have managed to work so happily and successfully with each other and with their third partner, Bill. How the Universe has really gifted them with their different yet clearly defined roles within their business. Recognizing their very different strengths and skills, which really blend well together, for the benefit of their business. Not micromanaging each other or their staff really works well for Vince and LuAnn. What makes a really great Salesperson. Their 'code' of who gets the final say if there's a disagreement about something in the business. (Unless it's a money decision). Letting go of your inner 'control freak' to find harmony in your business relationships. The importance of moving on after a deal has been done and signed off, regardless of what may transpire later. The importance of having a basis of respect in any relationship to avoid issues. It's so much easier to be in business with your spouse when you really do love and care for one another. Observing the fine line of respect/familiarity. Always keeping the bigger picture (the business) in mind when disagreements arise. The benefits of using rationality rather than emotional manipulation. Delineating responsibilities yet allowing people to grow by allowing them to work within their strengths and to run with what they do really well. It really helps to curb disagreements if you can actually feel the pain of your partner. Always keeping what's best for the business uppermost in mind. Links: Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Vince Nigara #78 Syd and Shea McGee #270 Fri, 15 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a really special treat in store for you today - her husband, Vince will be joining her on the show! LuAnn has recently had a lot of people asking her to address the topic of husband and wife... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a really special treat in store for you today - her husband, Vince will be joining her on the show! LuAnn has recently had a lot of people asking her to address the topic of husband and wife teams, working together. She recently interviewed Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee (#270) and there are also a few more interviews scheduled with husband and wife teams, which are to be aired in the near future. Vince has already appeared on the show once before, where he talked to LuAnn about the kind of advice that he would give to new entrepreneurs just starting out in their business. He discussed establishing a mission, core values and also systems. So if you're interested in finding out more about any of that, please go back and listen to episode #78. Today, LuAnn and Vince will be talking about how they've managed to be in business together for so many years, and still, like (let alone love) each other! Listen in to find out more! Vince is the brains behind the finances at Window Works, with a degree in Accounting and also an MBA in Business. He has been the fearless leader at Window Works for thirty-five years this December and he has achieved a very recognizable level of stature within their Window Treatment and Awning community. He has served on a number of Marketing and Operations Advisory Boards, for Window Works and for Dorosol (The Awning Company that they use most often) and he served for just less than two years as the Vice President of Franchise Sales, for Decorating Den. Listen in today, to find out more about how Vince and LuAnn have managed to work together, really successfully, for so long. Show highlights: Vince shares some of the core reasons that he thinks they have managed to work so happily and successfully with each other and with their third partner, Bill. How the Universe has really gifted them with their different yet clearly defined roles within their business. Recognizing their very different strengths and skills, which really blend well together, for the benefit of their business. Not micromanaging each other or their staff really works well for Vince and LuAnn. What makes a really great Salesperson. Their 'code' of who gets the final say if there's a disagreement about something in the business. (Unless it's a money decision). Letting go of your inner 'control freak' to find harmony in your business relationships. The importance of moving on after a deal has been done and signed off, regardless of what may transpire later. The importance of having a basis of respect in any relationship to avoid issues. It's so much easier to be in business with your spouse when you really do love and care for one another. Observing the fine line of respect/familiarity. Always keeping the bigger picture (the business) in mind when disagreements arise. The benefits of using rationality rather than emotional manipulation. Delineating responsibilities yet allowing people to grow by allowing them to work within their strengths and to run with what they do really well. It really helps to curb disagreements if you can actually feel the pain of your partner. Always keeping what's best for the business uppermost in mind. Links: Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Vince Nigara #78 Syd and Shea McGee #270 Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn has a really special treat in store for you today - her husband, Vince will be joining her on the show! LuAnn has recently had a lot of people asking her to address the topic of husband and wife teams, working together.

She recently interviewed Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee (#270) and there are also a few more interviews scheduled with husband and wife teams, which are to be aired in the near future. Vince has already appeared on the show once before, where he talked to LuAnn about the kind of advice that he would give to new entrepreneurs just starting out in their business. He discussed establishing a mission, core values and also systems. So if you're interested in finding out more about any of that, please go back and listen to episode #78. Today, LuAnn and Vince will be talking about how they've managed to be in business together for so many years, and still, like (let alone love) each other! Listen in to find out more!

Vince is the brains behind the finances at Window Works, with a degree in Accounting and also an MBA in Business. He has been the fearless leader at Window Works for thirty-five years this December and he has achieved a very recognizable level of stature within their Window Treatment and Awning community. He has served on a number of Marketing and Operations Advisory Boards, for Window Works and for Dorosol (The Awning Company that they use most often) and he served for just less than two years as the Vice President of Franchise Sales, for Decorating Den. Listen in today, to find out more about how Vince and LuAnn have managed to work together, really successfully, for so long.

Show highlights:

  • Vince shares some of the core reasons that he thinks they have managed to work so happily and successfully with each other and with their third partner, Bill.
  • How the Universe has really gifted them with their different yet clearly defined roles within their business.
  • Recognizing their very different strengths and skills, which really blend well together, for the benefit of their business.
  • Not micromanaging each other or their staff really works well for Vince and LuAnn.
  • What makes a really great Salesperson.
  • Their 'code' of who gets the final say if there's a disagreement about something in the business. (Unless it's a money decision).
  • Letting go of your inner 'control freak' to find harmony in your business relationships.
  • The importance of moving on after a deal has been done and signed off, regardless of what may transpire later.
  • The importance of having a basis of respect in any relationship to avoid issues.
  • It's so much easier to be in business with your spouse when you really do love and care for one another.
  • Observing the fine line of respect/familiarity.
  • Always keeping the bigger picture (the business) in mind when disagreements arise.
  • The benefits of using rationality rather than emotional manipulation.
  • Delineating responsibilities yet allowing people to grow by allowing them to work within their strengths and to run with what they do really well.
  • It really helps to curb disagreements if you can actually feel the pain of your partner.
  • Always keeping what's best for the business uppermost in mind.

Links:

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Vince Nigara #78

Syd and Shea McGee #270

]]> 3070 no 270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/270-shea-syd-mcgee-building-a-design-empire-involves-a-lot-of-hustle Welcome to today's show! We really have the most amazing surprise for all of you today- we have Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee on the show with us! Shea was on the show about a month ago, (episode #236) where she talked about how Studio McGee was created in a spare bedroom and then, after many late nights of brainstorming and sharing their dreams, Shea and Syd decided to turn what was a small business for a stay at home mom, into something way beyond that. Today, you will hear Shea discuss how she always knew that she wanted to do high-end Design. She also talks about two business decisions that Syd was instrumental in making very early on, which allowed them to attract the kind of client that they really wanted to work with and she explains how Syd has also really helped her to approach certain problems in business with the right perspective.  Listen in to find out more about this dynamic duo and their approach to running a really successful business.     Studio McGee has been featured in House Beautiful, Domain Home, Design Sponge, Apartment Therapy, SMP Living and One Kings Lane, as well as many others. This show will also appear as a video on LuAnn's Youtube channel. (Go to Youtube for A Well Designed Business.) Listen in today and experience the really tangible love, respect, and admiration that these two have for one another and discover how Shea's dream to build a Design Empire is fast becoming a reality. Show highlights: What was going on in Syd's mind when they made the decision to move to Utah. Shea explains how Syd got involved bringing his really valuable perspective to the business. How Syd managed to figure out a way organize the operations side of their business by assessing the problems and then finding solutions. How Syd managed to streamline their systems by building their own internal software. Syd's initial focus was really on allowing the Designers to get on with their designing. The sacrifices that they made initially to ensure that there was enough content for their business to grow. The great pay off they've had from consistently investing the time in putting out really high-quality photos on Instagram. How to know when it's the right time to start charging more. How Shea and Syd have pushed each other, to create their Design Empire. The time it took for them to afford to create their own catalog. Attracting the type of clients that they have now. The financial risk that they took and what they put on the line to keep going forward to create their dream. The kind of support that Shea and Syd give one another. How they came to be doing their Webisodes on Youtube. Some of the actionable things that they have done, to really grow their business. All about McGee and Co, a website that they started about a year ago where you can go online and order from their really great product line. It's really demanding to be a very good mom and a great entrepreneur, but it can be done! Links: Shea and Syd's website: www.studio-mcgee.com You can do your purchasing from: www.mcgeeandco.com Shea and Syd on Instagram Shea and Syd on Facebook Shea and Syd on YouTube Follow A Well Designed Business on YouTube For your free offer, from MyDoma Studio, as a listener to the podcast, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Wed, 13 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We really have the most amazing surprise for all of you today- we have Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee on the show with us! Shea was on the show about a month ago, ) where she talked about how Studio McGee was created in a... Welcome to today's show! We really have the most amazing surprise for all of you today- we have Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee on the show with us! Shea was on the show about a month ago, (episode #236) where she talked about how Studio McGee was created in a spare bedroom and then, after many late nights of brainstorming and sharing their dreams, Shea and Syd decided to turn what was a small business for a stay at home mom, into something way beyond that. Today, you will hear Shea discuss how she always knew that she wanted to do high-end Design. She also talks about two business decisions that Syd was instrumental in making very early on, which allowed them to attract the kind of client that they really wanted to work with and she explains how Syd has also really helped her to approach certain problems in business with the right perspective.  Listen in to find out more about this dynamic duo and their approach to running a really successful business.     Studio McGee has been featured in House Beautiful, Domain Home, Design Sponge, Apartment Therapy, SMP Living and One Kings Lane, as well as many others. This show will also appear as a video on LuAnn's Youtube channel. (Go to Youtube for A Well Designed Business.) Listen in today and experience the really tangible love, respect, and admiration that these two have for one another and discover how Shea's dream to build a Design Empire is fast becoming a reality. Show highlights: What was going on in Syd's mind when they made the decision to move to Utah. Shea explains how Syd got involved bringing his really valuable perspective to the business. How Syd managed to figure out a way organize the operations side of their business by assessing the problems and then finding solutions. How Syd managed to streamline their systems by building their own internal software. Syd's initial focus was really on allowing the Designers to get on with their designing. The sacrifices that they made initially to ensure that there was enough content for their business to grow. The great pay off they've had from consistently investing the time in putting out really high-quality photos on Instagram. How to know when it's the right time to start charging more. How Shea and Syd have pushed each other, to create their Design Empire. The time it took for them to afford to create their own catalog. Attracting the type of clients that they have now. The financial risk that they took and what they put on the line to keep going forward to create their dream. The kind of support that Shea and Syd give one another. How they came to be doing their Webisodes on Youtube. Some of the actionable things that they have done, to really grow their business. All about McGee and Co, a website that they started about a year ago where you can go online and order from their really great product line. It's really demanding to be a very good mom and a great entrepreneur, but it can be done! Links: Shea and Syd's website: www.studio-mcgee.com You can do your purchasing from: www.mcgeeandco.com Shea and Syd on Instagram Shea and Syd on Facebook Shea and Syd on YouTube Follow A Well Designed Business on YouTube For your free offer, from MyDoma Studio, as a listener to the podcast, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Welcome to today's show! We really have the most amazing surprise for all of you today- we have Syd and Shea McGee, of Studio McGee on the show with us! Shea was on the show about a month ago, (episode #236) where she talked about how Studio McGee was created in a spare bedroom and then, after many late nights of brainstorming and sharing their dreams, Shea and Syd decided to turn what was a small business for a stay at home mom, into something way beyond that.

Today, you will hear Shea discuss how she always knew that she wanted to do high-end Design. She also talks about two business decisions that Syd was instrumental in making very early on, which allowed them to attract the kind of client that they really wanted to work with and she explains how Syd has also really helped her to approach certain problems in business with the right perspective.  Listen in to find out more about this dynamic duo and their approach to running a really successful business.    

Studio McGee has been featured in House Beautiful, Domain Home, Design Sponge, Apartment Therapy, SMP Living and One Kings Lane, as well as many others. This show will also appear as a video on LuAnn's Youtube channel. (Go to Youtube for A Well Designed Business.) Listen in today and experience the really tangible love, respect, and admiration that these two have for one another and discover how Shea's dream to build a Design Empire is fast becoming a reality.

Show highlights:

  • What was going on in Syd's mind when they made the decision to move to Utah.
  • Shea explains how Syd got involved bringing his really valuable perspective to the business.
  • How Syd managed to figure out a way organize the operations side of their business by assessing the problems and then finding solutions.
  • How Syd managed to streamline their systems by building their own internal software.
  • Syd's initial focus was really on allowing the Designers to get on with their designing.
  • The sacrifices that they made initially to ensure that there was enough content for their business to grow.
  • The great pay off they've had from consistently investing the time in putting out really high-quality photos on Instagram.
  • How to know when it's the right time to start charging more.
  • How Shea and Syd have pushed each other, to create their Design Empire.
  • The time it took for them to afford to create their own catalog.
  • Attracting the type of clients that they have now.
  • The financial risk that they took and what they put on the line to keep going forward to create their dream.
  • The kind of support that Shea and Syd give one another.
  • How they came to be doing their Webisodes on Youtube.
  • Some of the actionable things that they have done, to really grow their business.
  • All about McGee and Co, a website that they started about a year ago where you can go online and order from their really great product line.
  • It's really demanding to be a very good mom and a great entrepreneur, but it can be done!

Links:

Shea and Syd's website: www.studio-mcgee.com

You can do your purchasing from: www.mcgeeandco.com

Shea and Syd on Instagram

Shea and Syd on Facebook

Shea and Syd on YouTube

Follow A Well Designed Business on YouTube

For your free offer, from MyDoma Studio, as a listener to the podcast, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

]]> 4361 no 269: Nina Magon: Building a Team For Your Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/269-nina-magon-building-a-team-for-your-design-firm Welcome to today's show! We have Nina Magen, the Principal of Contour Interior Design, on the show with us today. Nina is a very savvy lady, who has a lot going on, on both the business and the Design side. The fact that she is driven is evident in the nine-year rise of her Design Firm and it also shows in the way that she runs her business. Today we talk to Nina about the significant impression it made on her and her business when she was on American Dream Builder TV show. We also talk to her about her staff: how she hires and what she looks for when hiring someone. So listen in to find out more. Contour is an international, full-service Interior Design firm, with offices both in Houston and Miami. There is a long list of award-winning interiors in the Contour portfolio, which have received recognition from NBC, Bravo and HGTV Networks, as well as acknowledgment for Best Interior Architecture and Best Commercial Interior, by Paper City. ASID also awarded them Best Commercial Interior. The work of Contour has been featured in Rue, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Interiors Magazine and Lux Interiors and Designs, to name just a few. Listen in today, to find out more about Nina and her approach to running Contour Interior Design. Show highlights: Nina explains how she came to have such an international team. What Nina does to encourage her team to learn from each other and to think outside of their comfort zone. American design and architecture, as compared with the more modern, forward-thinking European design. Nina discusses her approach and what she looks for when she's ready to hire a team member. The criteria for advancement, that Nina looks for in her team members. What it takes to be a really successful Designer. Nina discusses where her interest in being on a TV show came from. How Nina managed to get onto American Dream Builders TV show in 2014. Nina's harrowing experience on American Dream Builders. How Nina leveraged her life-changing experience on the TV show. Nina's constant growth, personally and business-wise, since being on the TV show. The things that Nina is looking forward to doing, in the future. How to get to be the Designer for celebrity homes. Connect with Nina: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Go to www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to find out how MyDoma Studio can help you to run your firm more efficiently. There's a special offer there for you too, as a podcast listener. Previous shows mentioned on this episode: Amber Lewis #184 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Nina Magen, the Principal of Contour Interior Design, on the show with us today. Nina is a very savvy lady, who has a lot going on, on both the business and the Design side. The fact that she is driven is evident in... Welcome to today's show! We have Nina Magen, the Principal of Contour Interior Design, on the show with us today. Nina is a very savvy lady, who has a lot going on, on both the business and the Design side. The fact that she is driven is evident in the nine-year rise of her Design Firm and it also shows in the way that she runs her business. Today we talk to Nina about the significant impression it made on her and her business when she was on American Dream Builder TV show. We also talk to her about her staff: how she hires and what she looks for when hiring someone. So listen in to find out more. Contour is an international, full-service Interior Design firm, with offices both in Houston and Miami. There is a long list of award-winning interiors in the Contour portfolio, which have received recognition from NBC, Bravo and HGTV Networks, as well as acknowledgment for Best Interior Architecture and Best Commercial Interior, by Paper City. ASID also awarded them Best Commercial Interior. The work of Contour has been featured in Rue, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Interiors Magazine and Lux Interiors and Designs, to name just a few. Listen in today, to find out more about Nina and her approach to running Contour Interior Design. Show highlights: Nina explains how she came to have such an international team. What Nina does to encourage her team to learn from each other and to think outside of their comfort zone. American design and architecture, as compared with the more modern, forward-thinking European design. Nina discusses her approach and what she looks for when she's ready to hire a team member. The criteria for advancement, that Nina looks for in her team members. What it takes to be a really successful Designer. Nina discusses where her interest in being on a TV show came from. How Nina managed to get onto American Dream Builders TV show in 2014. Nina's harrowing experience on American Dream Builders. How Nina leveraged her life-changing experience on the TV show. Nina's constant growth, personally and business-wise, since being on the TV show. The things that Nina is looking forward to doing, in the future. How to get to be the Designer for celebrity homes. Connect with Nina: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Go to www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to find out how MyDoma Studio can help you to run your firm more efficiently. There's a special offer there for you too, as a podcast listener. Previous shows mentioned on this episode: Amber Lewis #184 Welcome to today's show! We have Nina Magen, the Principal of Contour Interior Design, on the show with us today. Nina is a very savvy lady, who has a lot going on, on both the business and the Design side. The fact that she is driven is evident in the nine-year rise of her Design Firm and it also shows in the way that she runs her business. Today we talk to Nina about the significant impression it made on her and her business when she was on American Dream Builder TV show. We also talk to her about her staff: how she hires and what she looks for when hiring someone. So listen in to find out more.

Contour is an international, full-service Interior Design firm, with offices both in Houston and Miami. There is a long list of award-winning interiors in the Contour portfolio, which have received recognition from NBC, Bravo and HGTV Networks, as well as acknowledgment for Best Interior Architecture and Best Commercial Interior, by Paper City. ASID also awarded them Best Commercial Interior. The work of Contour has been featured in Rue, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Interiors Magazine and Lux Interiors and Designs, to name just a few. Listen in today, to find out more about Nina and her approach to running Contour Interior Design.

Show highlights:

  • Nina explains how she came to have such an international team.
  • What Nina does to encourage her team to learn from each other and to think outside of their comfort zone.
  • American design and architecture, as compared with the more modern, forward-thinking European design.
  • Nina discusses her approach and what she looks for when she's ready to hire a team member.
  • The criteria for advancement, that Nina looks for in her team members.
  • What it takes to be a really successful Designer.
  • Nina discusses where her interest in being on a TV show came from.
  • How Nina managed to get onto American Dream Builders TV show in 2014.
  • Nina's harrowing experience on American Dream Builders.
  • How Nina leveraged her life-changing experience on the TV show.
  • Nina's constant growth, personally and business-wise, since being on the TV show.
  • The things that Nina is looking forward to doing, in the future.
  • How to get to be the Designer for celebrity homes.

Connect with Nina:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Go to www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to find out how MyDoma Studio can help you to run your firm more efficiently. There's a special offer there for you too, as a podcast listener.

Previous shows mentioned on this episode:

Amber Lewis #184

]]> 3925 no 268: Power Talk Friday: Ashley Faulkes- Maximizing SEO for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/268-power-talk-friday-ashley-faulkes-maximizing-seo-for-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Faulkes, the CEO of Mad Lemmings with us on the show today. Ashley creates Wordpress websites and he also is an SEO expert, which is one of the main reasons that LuAnn invited him onto the show. She knows that there are many of you out there, wondering about the merits of blogging and wanting to find out how to go about doing it. This is a topic that we really can't seem to get enough information on, so listen in and learn from Ashley, who is an expert when it comes to blogging and creating websites. Ashley, whose company is fourteen years old, is an Australian who is now living in Switzerland. After skiing one time, on the last run of the day, Ashley fell, twisting his leg and breaking it in thirty-seven places. He then had to spend three days immobilized in hospital, waiting for the weekend to be over and for the surgeons to get prepared to operate. It was well worth the wait, however, and he was also really lucky because they ended up doing a first class job and getting excellent results with his leg. The spin-off of this was that it brought Ashley to blogging, which then brought him to a whole new endeavor, which he became really good at, through getting educated and also teaching. Listen in now, to find out what Ashley has to share with you about SEO and Website Creation. Show highlights: Ashley's opinion on the difference between a Square Space site and a Wordpress Migrating to a new website with all of your current content. How to attract people to your website, if you're doing the website yourself. Optimising your Home Page and your Services Page. Making a habit of getting reviews on your website for SEO- you can even set up a link for that. Getting onto your local listings, to create SEO links, when starting out. Leveraging social proof, through getting your business listed with The Chamber Of Commerce, or Government Institutions. Finding the biggest bang for your buck, for SEO rankings. How to find out, rather than guessing, if there are any people searching for a particular topic, before writing a blog post. Thinking about reasons that people would need your services, for effective blogging. How to create links to your website. Getting access to Google tools. Using the right keywords for great rankings. Pictures can be worth a thousand words. Using Youtube for great rankings. The value of re-purposing your content. Links:  Ashley's website: www.madlemmings.com Ashley on Youtube: Mad Lemmings Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Lisa Escobar #258 Fri, 08 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Faulkes, the CEO of Mad Lemmings with us on the show today. Ashley creates Wordpress websites and he also is an SEO expert, which is one of the main reasons that LuAnn invited him onto... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Faulkes, the CEO of Mad Lemmings with us on the show today. Ashley creates Wordpress websites and he also is an SEO expert, which is one of the main reasons that LuAnn invited him onto the show. She knows that there are many of you out there, wondering about the merits of blogging and wanting to find out how to go about doing it. This is a topic that we really can't seem to get enough information on, so listen in and learn from Ashley, who is an expert when it comes to blogging and creating websites. Ashley, whose company is fourteen years old, is an Australian who is now living in Switzerland. After skiing one time, on the last run of the day, Ashley fell, twisting his leg and breaking it in thirty-seven places. He then had to spend three days immobilized in hospital, waiting for the weekend to be over and for the surgeons to get prepared to operate. It was well worth the wait, however, and he was also really lucky because they ended up doing a first class job and getting excellent results with his leg. The spin-off of this was that it brought Ashley to blogging, which then brought him to a whole new endeavor, which he became really good at, through getting educated and also teaching. Listen in now, to find out what Ashley has to share with you about SEO and Website Creation. Show highlights: Ashley's opinion on the difference between a Square Space site and a Wordpress Migrating to a new website with all of your current content. How to attract people to your website, if you're doing the website yourself. Optimising your Home Page and your Services Page. Making a habit of getting reviews on your website for SEO- you can even set up a link for that. Getting onto your local listings, to create SEO links, when starting out. Leveraging social proof, through getting your business listed with The Chamber Of Commerce, or Government Institutions. Finding the biggest bang for your buck, for SEO rankings. How to find out, rather than guessing, if there are any people searching for a particular topic, before writing a blog post. Thinking about reasons that people would need your services, for effective blogging. How to create links to your website. Getting access to Google tools. Using the right keywords for great rankings. Pictures can be worth a thousand words. Using Youtube for great rankings. The value of re-purposing your content. Links:  Ashley's website: www.madlemmings.com Ashley on Youtube: Mad Lemmings Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Lisa Escobar #258 Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Faulkes, the CEO of Mad Lemmings with us on the show today. Ashley creates Wordpress websites and he also is an SEO expert, which is one of the main reasons that LuAnn invited him onto the show. She knows that there are many of you out there, wondering about the merits of blogging and wanting to find out how to go about doing it. This is a topic that we really can't seem to get enough information on, so listen in and learn from Ashley, who is an expert when it comes to blogging and creating websites.

Ashley, whose company is fourteen years old, is an Australian who is now living in Switzerland. After skiing one time, on the last run of the day, Ashley fell, twisting his leg and breaking it in thirty-seven places. He then had to spend three days immobilized in hospital, waiting for the weekend to be over and for the surgeons to get prepared to operate. It was well worth the wait, however, and he was also really lucky because they ended up doing a first class job and getting excellent results with his leg. The spin-off of this was that it brought Ashley to blogging, which then brought him to a whole new endeavor, which he became really good at, through getting educated and also teaching. Listen in now, to find out what Ashley has to share with you about SEO and Website Creation.

Show highlights:

  • Ashley's opinion on the difference between a Square Space site and a Wordpress
  • Migrating to a new website with all of your current content.
  • How to attract people to your website, if you're doing the website yourself.
  • Optimising your Home Page and your Services Page.
  • Making a habit of getting reviews on your website for SEO- you can even set up a link for that.
  • Getting onto your local listings, to create SEO links, when starting out.
  • Leveraging social proof, through getting your business listed with The Chamber Of Commerce, or Government Institutions.
  • Finding the biggest bang for your buck, for SEO rankings.
  • How to find out, rather than guessing, if there are any people searching for a particular topic, before writing a blog post.
  • Thinking about reasons that people would need your services, for effective blogging.
  • How to create links to your website.
  • Getting access to Google tools.
  • Using the right keywords for great rankings.
  • Pictures can be worth a thousand words.
  • Using Youtube for great rankings.
  • The value of re-purposing your content.

Links: 

Ashley's website: www.madlemmings.com

Ashley on Youtube: Mad Lemmings

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Lisa Escobar #258

]]> 4331 no 267: Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/267-rasheeda-gray-a-pipeline-with-over-20-interior-design-projects-in-under-2-years Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today is Rasheeda Gray, the Principal of Gray Space Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia Metro area. Gray Space is still a side hustle for Rasheeda at this point in time and yet in just under two years, she has already had more than twenty projects! You're probably wondering how she has managed to do this, so today she shares three strategies that she has used, to land these twenty plus projects and also her thoughts on what it takes to succeed in the field of Interior Design. Listen in now, to get some really actionable tips from Rasheeda, to fill your pipeline. Rasheeda holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and International Business, as well as a Master's Degree and she currently works full time, in a corporate position. She also has a husband and two kids. Rasheeda brings her business skills to her Design Firm, so listen in, as she explains how she's managed to achieve as much as she has, in such a short time. Show highlights: What led to Rasheeda starting Gray Space Interior Design, as her side hustle. Rasheeda is a strong believer in Vision Boards. How Rasheeda managed to obtain her first two projects. The way that Rasheeda made use of social media to get herself known, as an Interior Designer. The magic mix for Rasheeda's success on social media. The secret to Rasheeda's success on Instagram. Rasheeda's way of growing her business intentionally to attain the kind of success that she has, in such a short time. Taking full advantage of any opportunity to speak at events as a great way to get yourself and your business known. What Rasheeda did to get to know five Realtors. All about Rasheeda's Consultation Special for Cyber Monday. Using Loss Leaders to attract more business. How referrals and testimonials have helped Rasheeda to fill her pipeline. The way that Rasheeda leverages her reviews on Howz, to get more business. How Rasheeda found Cheryl and then selected her to be her mentor. How mentorship has contributed to Rasheeda's success. Why it could be tricky to have a mentor from the same area as you. Why it's important to be upfront with your clients about your working a full-time job. The questionnaire that Rasheeda has her prospective clients complete right in the beginning. Assessing the needs of your clients, then providing solutions for them. The logistics of running a Design firm, a full-time job and a family. Links: To take advantage of the special incentives that are being offered to you, as a listener of the podcast: From My Doma Studio, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and From our newest sponsor, Fresh Books, go to www.freshbooks.com/luann   Wed, 06 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today is Rasheeda Gray, the Principal of Gray Space Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia Metro area. Gray Space is still a side hustle for Rasheeda at this point in time and yet in just under two... Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today is Rasheeda Gray, the Principal of Gray Space Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia Metro area. Gray Space is still a side hustle for Rasheeda at this point in time and yet in just under two years, she has already had more than twenty projects! You're probably wondering how she has managed to do this, so today she shares three strategies that she has used, to land these twenty plus projects and also her thoughts on what it takes to succeed in the field of Interior Design. Listen in now, to get some really actionable tips from Rasheeda, to fill your pipeline. Rasheeda holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and International Business, as well as a Master's Degree and she currently works full time, in a corporate position. She also has a husband and two kids. Rasheeda brings her business skills to her Design Firm, so listen in, as she explains how she's managed to achieve as much as she has, in such a short time. Show highlights: What led to Rasheeda starting Gray Space Interior Design, as her side hustle. Rasheeda is a strong believer in Vision Boards. How Rasheeda managed to obtain her first two projects. The way that Rasheeda made use of social media to get herself known, as an Interior Designer. The magic mix for Rasheeda's success on social media. The secret to Rasheeda's success on Instagram. Rasheeda's way of growing her business intentionally to attain the kind of success that she has, in such a short time. Taking full advantage of any opportunity to speak at events as a great way to get yourself and your business known. What Rasheeda did to get to know five Realtors. All about Rasheeda's Consultation Special for Cyber Monday. Using Loss Leaders to attract more business. How referrals and testimonials have helped Rasheeda to fill her pipeline. The way that Rasheeda leverages her reviews on Howz, to get more business. How Rasheeda found Cheryl and then selected her to be her mentor. How mentorship has contributed to Rasheeda's success. Why it could be tricky to have a mentor from the same area as you. Why it's important to be upfront with your clients about your working a full-time job. The questionnaire that Rasheeda has her prospective clients complete right in the beginning. Assessing the needs of your clients, then providing solutions for them. The logistics of running a Design firm, a full-time job and a family. Links: To take advantage of the special incentives that are being offered to you, as a listener of the podcast: From My Doma Studio, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness and From our newest sponsor, Fresh Books, go to www.freshbooks.com/luann   Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today is Rasheeda Gray, the Principal of Gray Space Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia Metro area. Gray Space is still a side hustle for Rasheeda at this point in time and yet in just under two years, she has already had more than twenty projects! You're probably wondering how she has managed to do this, so today she shares three strategies that she has used, to land these twenty plus projects and also her thoughts on what it takes to succeed in the field of Interior Design. Listen in now, to get some really actionable tips from Rasheeda, to fill your pipeline.

Rasheeda holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and International Business, as well as a Master's Degree and she currently works full time, in a corporate position. She also has a husband and two kids. Rasheeda brings her business skills to her Design Firm, so listen in, as she explains how she's managed to achieve as much as she has, in such a short time.

Show highlights:

  • What led to Rasheeda starting Gray Space Interior Design, as her side hustle.
  • Rasheeda is a strong believer in Vision Boards.
  • How Rasheeda managed to obtain her first two projects.
  • The way that Rasheeda made use of social media to get herself known, as an Interior Designer.
  • The magic mix for Rasheeda's success on social media.
  • The secret to Rasheeda's success on Instagram.
  • Rasheeda's way of growing her business intentionally to attain the kind of success that she has, in such a short time.
  • Taking full advantage of any opportunity to speak at events as a great way to get yourself and your business known.
  • What Rasheeda did to get to know five Realtors.
  • All about Rasheeda's Consultation Special for Cyber Monday.
  • Using Loss Leaders to attract more business.
  • How referrals and testimonials have helped Rasheeda to fill her pipeline.
  • The way that Rasheeda leverages her reviews on Howz, to get more business.
  • How Rasheeda found Cheryl and then selected her to be her mentor.
  • How mentorship has contributed to Rasheeda's success.
  • Why it could be tricky to have a mentor from the same area as you.
  • Why it's important to be upfront with your clients about your working a full-time job.
  • The questionnaire that Rasheeda has her prospective clients complete right in the beginning.
  • Assessing the needs of your clients, then providing solutions for them.
  • The logistics of running a Design firm, a full-time job and a family.

Links:

To take advantage of the special incentives that are being offered to you, as a listener of the podcast:

From My Doma Studio, go to: www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

and

From our newest sponsor, Fresh Books, go to www.freshbooks.com/luann

 

]]> 3888 no 266: Remya Warrior: How To Network in 7 Steps http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/266-remya-warrior-how-to-network-in-7-steps Today we have Remya Warrior on the show with us and she's a New Jersey Interior Designer with a Master's Degree as well as fourteen years of experience in the field. She is active in both the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), where she is currently the Vice President of the New Jersey chapter, and also in ASID in New Jersey, where she is the featured Tech Talk host. Listen in today, to hear all about what that is and also to find out about Remya's very actionable Seven Step Process that she uses to really knock her networking right out of the park. Remya really loves to cook for her friends and family and she firmly believes that the kitchen is the heart of the home and it is this that has her specializing in Kitchen Design. Being an active member of the WCAA has led her to her falling in love with window treatments and specializing in that area as well. On Remya's website, there is a line that says that she helps busy, middle-income families create a home that they love and this is something that LuAnn found very interesting because she really enjoys finding out what makes you, as an Interior Designer, different. LuAnn loves researching and finding out what really sets certain Designers apart, for the purposes of the show, and she points out that your clients also want to find something on your website, that really sets you apart as a Designer.  Listen in now, to find out more about Remya and the really interesting things that she does with her business, to set her apart from the rest. Show highlights: Koffee Break- the Video Resource that Remya used to have on her website. What Remya learned from doing Koffee Break for two years. What Tech Talk is all about and who Remya has connected with, through doing it. How Remya has really managed to up her game, through doing Tech Talk. How Remya selects the people that she interviews on Tech Talk. You can go to the ASID channel on YouTube, to see the library of resources that Remya has created there with her webinars. If you'd like to attend one of Remya's Tech Talk Live Webinars, you will need to friend her on Facebook. (Remya Warrior) Remya gives a detailed explanation of her Seven Step Process designed to help you to network most effectively. The heartfelt and personal messages that Remya sent to only five special people on Thanksgiving. What it takes to create a really effective Sales Conversation. The three separate email sequences that Remya has on her website to put business leads into her pipeline. Building your referral strategy, through Remya's Seven Step Process. Resources: Remya's website: www.rwarriordesigns.org Remya on Facebook-Remya Warrior Designs Remya on LinkedIn-Remya Warrior Designs Remya learned this networking technique from her friend Paul McManus! You can also search for Remya on YouTube and Ted Talk. To get 10% off your entire first purchase from Curated Kravet, go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code C K Podcast at the checkout. If you'd like to be in one of LuAnn's Masterminds, email her at info@luannnigara.com to see if you're a good fit. Please leave your review for the show on iTunes - LuAnn will really appreciate it Mon, 04 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Remya Warrior on the show with us and she's a New Jersey Interior Designer with a Master's Degree as well as fourteen years of experience in the field. She is active in both the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), where she... Today we have Remya Warrior on the show with us and she's a New Jersey Interior Designer with a Master's Degree as well as fourteen years of experience in the field. She is active in both the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), where she is currently the Vice President of the New Jersey chapter, and also in ASID in New Jersey, where she is the featured Tech Talk host. Listen in today, to hear all about what that is and also to find out about Remya's very actionable Seven Step Process that she uses to really knock her networking right out of the park. Remya really loves to cook for her friends and family and she firmly believes that the kitchen is the heart of the home and it is this that has her specializing in Kitchen Design. Being an active member of the WCAA has led her to her falling in love with window treatments and specializing in that area as well. On Remya's website, there is a line that says that she helps busy, middle-income families create a home that they love and this is something that LuAnn found very interesting because she really enjoys finding out what makes you, as an Interior Designer, different. LuAnn loves researching and finding out what really sets certain Designers apart, for the purposes of the show, and she points out that your clients also want to find something on your website, that really sets you apart as a Designer.  Listen in now, to find out more about Remya and the really interesting things that she does with her business, to set her apart from the rest. Show highlights: Koffee Break- the Video Resource that Remya used to have on her website. What Remya learned from doing Koffee Break for two years. What Tech Talk is all about and who Remya has connected with, through doing it. How Remya has really managed to up her game, through doing Tech Talk. How Remya selects the people that she interviews on Tech Talk. You can go to the ASID channel on YouTube, to see the library of resources that Remya has created there with her webinars. If you'd like to attend one of Remya's Tech Talk Live Webinars, you will need to friend her on Facebook. (Remya Warrior) Remya gives a detailed explanation of her Seven Step Process designed to help you to network most effectively. The heartfelt and personal messages that Remya sent to only five special people on Thanksgiving. What it takes to create a really effective Sales Conversation. The three separate email sequences that Remya has on her website to put business leads into her pipeline. Building your referral strategy, through Remya's Seven Step Process. Resources: Remya's website: www.rwarriordesigns.org Remya on Facebook-Remya Warrior Designs Remya on LinkedIn-Remya Warrior Designs Remya learned this networking technique from her friend Paul McManus! You can also search for Remya on YouTube and Ted Talk. To get 10% off your entire first purchase from Curated Kravet, go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code C K Podcast at the checkout. If you'd like to be in one of LuAnn's Masterminds, email her at info@luannnigara.com to see if you're a good fit. Please leave your review for the show on iTunes - LuAnn will really appreciate it Today we have Remya Warrior on the show with us and she's a New Jersey Interior Designer with a Master's Degree as well as fourteen years of experience in the field. She is active in both the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), where she is currently the Vice President of the New Jersey chapter, and also in ASID in New Jersey, where she is the featured Tech Talk host. Listen in today, to hear all about what that is and also to find out about Remya's very actionable Seven Step Process that she uses to really knock her networking right out of the park.

Remya really loves to cook for her friends and family and she firmly believes that the kitchen is the heart of the home and it is this that has her specializing in Kitchen Design. Being an active member of the WCAA has led her to her falling in love with window treatments and specializing in that area as well.

On Remya's website, there is a line that says that she helps busy, middle-income families create a home that they love and this is something that LuAnn found very interesting because she really enjoys finding out what makes you, as an Interior Designer, different. LuAnn loves researching and finding out what really sets certain Designers apart, for the purposes of the show, and she points out that your clients also want to find something on your website, that really sets you apart as a Designer.  Listen in now, to find out more about Remya and the really interesting things that she does with her business, to set her apart from the rest.

Show highlights:

  • Koffee Break- the Video Resource that Remya used to have on her website.
  • What Remya learned from doing Koffee Break for two years.
  • What Tech Talk is all about and who Remya has connected with, through doing it.
  • How Remya has really managed to up her game, through doing Tech Talk.
  • How Remya selects the people that she interviews on Tech Talk.
  • You can go to the ASID channel on YouTube, to see the library of resources that Remya has created there with her webinars.
  • If you'd like to attend one of Remya's Tech Talk Live Webinars, you will need to friend her on Facebook. (Remya Warrior)
  • Remya gives a detailed explanation of her Seven Step Process designed to help you to network most effectively.
  • The heartfelt and personal messages that Remya sent to only five special people on Thanksgiving.
  • What it takes to create a really effective Sales Conversation.
  • The three separate email sequences that Remya has on her website to put business leads into her pipeline.
  • Building your referral strategy, through Remya's Seven Step Process.

Resources:

Remya's website: www.rwarriordesigns.org

Remya on Facebook-Remya Warrior Designs

Remya on LinkedIn-Remya Warrior Designs

Remya learned this networking technique from her friend Paul McManus!

You can also search for Remya on YouTube and Ted Talk.

To get 10% off your entire first purchase from Curated Kravet, go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code C K Podcast at the checkout.

If you'd like to be in one of LuAnn's Masterminds, email her at info@luannnigara.com to see if you're a good fit.

Please leave your review for the show on iTunes - LuAnn will really appreciate it

]]> 4122 no 265: Power Talk Friday: FreshBooks for Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/265-power-talk-friday-freshbooks-for-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have an interview with FreshBooks today. A few months ago, FreshBooks and LuAnn started talking about them becoming a regular sponsor for this show.  As pretty smart business people, they both wanted to find out more about one another before joining forces, to see who they would be getting involved with. FreshBooks asked to do a trial of two or three thirty second ad spots. Before LuAnn agreed to do any commercials for them, however, she wanted to know if they really were right for you, her listeners. And what better way for LuAnn to know if they are the right fit than to apply her ninja interview tactics to them? Listen in to find out more. LuAnn wanted the chance to ask any and every question that she thought would be helpful, for you to decide if FreshBooks is right for you because she thinks they really are a terrific platform for helping you to track the money side of your Design business. Today she talks to Julie Kerr, the Marketing Communications Strategist at FreshBooks, about FreshBooks and how she sees them as the perfect side companion to My Doma Studio. Listen in now, as Julie explains how this platform was designed, specifically for the small, serviced-based industry, to take the fear out of accounting and to help you to efficiently input, track and analyze your operations, your projects, and your business. Show highlights: Julie explains what FreshBooks is all about. Who the ideal client for FreshBooks is. Julie explains why this is the Accounting Software for non-Accountants. FreshBooks have built templates that actually help you to get paid faster. How FreshBooks helps you to track and operate your business seamlessly. You can take a picture of the receipts of money you spent, on gas, lunches or even hotel stays and the information will be automatically uploaded- and even sorted, for tax time. Your company credit cards can be linked to FreshBooks, to have all the transactions automatically uploaded. How FreshBooks helps you to easily assess the health of your business. Julie explains how the whole invoicing process of FreshBooks works. How well FreshBooks would work, as a side companion to My Doma Studios. The really beautiful design of the way that of FreshBooks looks. You can have your questions answered right away, by the Toronto based support team, at their call center. The way that the pricing structure of FreshBooks works. How FreshBooks helps you to track the exact number of hours that have been worked on a project. The different ways that you can stay connected to FreshBooks. Resources: You can get a free 30 Day Trial with FreshBooks!  All you have to do is go to www.freshbooks/LuAnn to sign up! If you still have any questions, you can email their Support Team at support@freshbooks.com, or you can give them a call at 1-866-303-6061. Fri, 01 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have an interview with FreshBooks today. A few months ago, FreshBooks and LuAnn started talking about them becoming a regular sponsor for this show.  As pretty smart business people, they both wanted to find out... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have an interview with FreshBooks today. A few months ago, FreshBooks and LuAnn started talking about them becoming a regular sponsor for this show.  As pretty smart business people, they both wanted to find out more about one another before joining forces, to see who they would be getting involved with. FreshBooks asked to do a trial of two or three thirty second ad spots. Before LuAnn agreed to do any commercials for them, however, she wanted to know if they really were right for you, her listeners. And what better way for LuAnn to know if they are the right fit than to apply her ninja interview tactics to them? Listen in to find out more. LuAnn wanted the chance to ask any and every question that she thought would be helpful, for you to decide if FreshBooks is right for you because she thinks they really are a terrific platform for helping you to track the money side of your Design business. Today she talks to Julie Kerr, the Marketing Communications Strategist at FreshBooks, about FreshBooks and how she sees them as the perfect side companion to My Doma Studio. Listen in now, as Julie explains how this platform was designed, specifically for the small, serviced-based industry, to take the fear out of accounting and to help you to efficiently input, track and analyze your operations, your projects, and your business. Show highlights: Julie explains what FreshBooks is all about. Who the ideal client for FreshBooks is. Julie explains why this is the Accounting Software for non-Accountants. FreshBooks have built templates that actually help you to get paid faster. How FreshBooks helps you to track and operate your business seamlessly. You can take a picture of the receipts of money you spent, on gas, lunches or even hotel stays and the information will be automatically uploaded- and even sorted, for tax time. Your company credit cards can be linked to FreshBooks, to have all the transactions automatically uploaded. How FreshBooks helps you to easily assess the health of your business. Julie explains how the whole invoicing process of FreshBooks works. How well FreshBooks would work, as a side companion to My Doma Studios. The really beautiful design of the way that of FreshBooks looks. You can have your questions answered right away, by the Toronto based support team, at their call center. The way that the pricing structure of FreshBooks works. How FreshBooks helps you to track the exact number of hours that have been worked on a project. The different ways that you can stay connected to FreshBooks. Resources: You can get a free 30 Day Trial with FreshBooks!  All you have to do is go to www.freshbooks/LuAnn to sign up! If you still have any questions, you can email their Support Team at support@freshbooks.com, or you can give them a call at 1-866-303-6061. Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have an interview with FreshBooks today. A few months ago, FreshBooks and LuAnn started talking about them becoming a regular sponsor for this show.  As pretty smart business people, they both wanted to find out more about one another before joining forces, to see who they would be getting involved with.

FreshBooks asked to do a trial of two or three thirty second ad spots. Before LuAnn agreed to do any commercials for them, however, she wanted to know if they really were right for you, her listeners. And what better way for LuAnn to know if they are the right fit than to apply her ninja interview tactics to them? Listen in to find out more.

LuAnn wanted the chance to ask any and every question that she thought would be helpful, for you to decide if FreshBooks is right for you because she thinks they really are a terrific platform for helping you to track the money side of your Design business.

Today she talks to Julie Kerr, the Marketing Communications Strategist at FreshBooks, about FreshBooks and how she sees them as the perfect side companion to My Doma Studio. Listen in now, as Julie explains how this platform was designed, specifically for the small, serviced-based industry, to take the fear out of accounting and to help you to efficiently input, track and analyze your operations, your projects, and your business.

Show highlights:

  • Julie explains what FreshBooks is all about.
  • Who the ideal client for FreshBooks is.
  • Julie explains why this is the Accounting Software for non-Accountants.
  • FreshBooks have built templates that actually help you to get paid faster.
  • How FreshBooks helps you to track and operate your business seamlessly.
  • You can take a picture of the receipts of money you spent, on gas, lunches or even hotel stays and the information will be automatically uploaded- and even sorted, for tax time.
  • Your company credit cards can be linked to FreshBooks, to have all the transactions automatically uploaded.
  • How FreshBooks helps you to easily assess the health of your business.
  • Julie explains how the whole invoicing process of FreshBooks works.
  • How well FreshBooks would work, as a side companion to My Doma Studios.
  • The really beautiful design of the way that of FreshBooks looks.
  • You can have your questions answered right away, by the Toronto based support team, at their call center.
  • The way that the pricing structure of FreshBooks works.
  • How FreshBooks helps you to track the exact number of hours that have been worked on a project.
  • The different ways that you can stay connected to FreshBooks.

Resources:

You can get a free 30 Day Trial with FreshBooks!  All you have to do is go to www.freshbooks/LuAnn to sign up!

If you still have any questions, you can email their Support Team at support@freshbooks.com, or you can give them a call at 1-866-303-6061.

]]> 3456 no 264: Design Biz Live: How to Manage Not Being the Project Manager http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/264-design-biz-live-how-to-manage-not-being-the-project-manager How many times have you, as a Designer,  felt like you were caught between your client and the Contractor? You know the kinds of situations where you have created a floor plan for space, only to find, on your next visit to the site, that a wall has been moved... So, what happens when this happens? Listen in now, to find out. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen have some terrific insights and advice for you around this subject, on today's Design Biz Live feature. On today's show, Corey and Judith will be talking about how to manage not being the Project Manager. The diversity of the Design Industry is your strength, but sometimes also your weakness, as a Designer, so listen in, as we pick this topic apart a bit and go through the nuances of it, so that you can find out how to avoid being in this kind of situation. Show highlights: The definition of Project Management. Judith's concept of the three legs of the stool. The challenge that Corey faced recently, around having to manage a project. The role of the General Contractor, as compared with that of an Architect, or a Designer. The different elements that need to be pulled together, to create cohesion in a project. What a really good Project Manager looks like. Where Designers tend to fall down in a project. What the initial Sales Process should cover. Judith's way of preventing the pain factor in a project. Educating the client about the costs of Project Management. When to say 'no' to a project.   Wed, 29 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara How many times have you, as a Designer,  felt like you were caught between your client and the Contractor? You know the kinds of situations where you have created a floor plan for space, only to find, on your next visit to the site, that a wall... How many times have you, as a Designer,  felt like you were caught between your client and the Contractor? You know the kinds of situations where you have created a floor plan for space, only to find, on your next visit to the site, that a wall has been moved... So, what happens when this happens? Listen in now, to find out. Judith Neary and Corey Klassen have some terrific insights and advice for you around this subject, on today's Design Biz Live feature. On today's show, Corey and Judith will be talking about how to manage not being the Project Manager. The diversity of the Design Industry is your strength, but sometimes also your weakness, as a Designer, so listen in, as we pick this topic apart a bit and go through the nuances of it, so that you can find out how to avoid being in this kind of situation. Show highlights: The definition of Project Management. Judith's concept of the three legs of the stool. The challenge that Corey faced recently, around having to manage a project. The role of the General Contractor, as compared with that of an Architect, or a Designer. The different elements that need to be pulled together, to create cohesion in a project. What a really good Project Manager looks like. Where Designers tend to fall down in a project. What the initial Sales Process should cover. Judith's way of preventing the pain factor in a project. Educating the client about the costs of Project Management. When to say 'no' to a project.   How many times have you, as a Designer,  felt like you were caught between your client and the Contractor? You know the kinds of situations where you have created a floor plan for space, only to find, on your next visit to the site, that a wall has been moved... So, what happens when this happens? Listen in now, to find out.

Judith Neary and Corey Klassen have some terrific insights and advice for you around this subject, on today's Design Biz Live feature. On today's show, Corey and Judith will be talking about how to manage not being the Project Manager. The diversity of the Design Industry is your strength, but sometimes also your weakness, as a Designer, so listen in, as we pick this topic apart a bit and go through the nuances of it, so that you can find out how to avoid being in this kind of situation.

Show highlights:

  • The definition of Project Management.
  • Judith's concept of the three legs of the stool.
  • The challenge that Corey faced recently, around having to manage a project.
  • The role of the General Contractor, as compared with that of an Architect, or a Designer.
  • The different elements that need to be pulled together, to create cohesion in a project.
  • What a really good Project Manager looks like.
  • Where Designers tend to fall down in a project.
  • What the initial Sales Process should cover.
  • Judith's way of preventing the pain factor in a project.
  • Educating the client about the costs of Project Management.
  • When to say 'no' to a project.

 

]]> 3820 no 263: Amanda Evans: Creating Growth in Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/263-amanda-evans-creating-growth-in-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today, Amanda Evans, is someone you may know through Instagram. She is the Founder and Principal of Amanda Evans Interiors, which is based in Vancouver. Amanda opened her business in 2009, before the birth of  Theo, her first child. Today Amanda talks to LuAnn about what work looked like for her before Theo came into her life, what it looked like after Theo began pre-school and what it looks like now, after their daughter, Marlee, who is now just three months old, was born. Listen in to find out more. On the show today, Amanda gives a detailed explanation of how she grew and then filled her pipeline, so that now, only three years later, she already has three employees. If you have been battling with ways to give your new (or existing firm) a boost in getting new leads, you're going to really enjoy today's show. Listen in now, to find out from Amanda some ways to handle the transitions in life, both from a business standpoint and when things come at you personally. Show highlights: Some of Amanda's observations about the transitions in her life, over the last few years. Amanda's really intentional way of creating relationships with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to work with. What it was like for Amanda, and how she coped, when she first joined the mostly male Builder's Association and started going to networking meetings. Amanda's way of initiating a first meeting, to connect with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to build relationships with. Some lessons that Amanda learned, and how her thinking changed, while making the transitions in her life. How Amanda was able to up-level her work and take on even more, by hiring people to assist her. Taking the pain out of developing new relationships with Builders or Contractors. How Amanda managed to get ideal team together. Some advice to help you to hire the right people for your business. Amanda's way of growing her Instagram, to get over 12 000 followers. Some things to watch out for, when tagging people on Instagram. You really do need to credit your photographer! Winning ways to work with Instagram. Some tips for engaging with your Instagram Community. Links: Website: www.aeinteriors.ca Instagram: @amandaevansinteriors Facebook: Facebook.com/amandaevansinteriors Twitter: @amandaevansinc   Previous shows mentioned on this episode:  Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Tabitha Carro #235 Shea McGee #236 Amber Lewis #184 Mon, 27 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today, Amanda Evans, is someone you may know through Instagram. She is the Founder and Principal of Amanda Evans Interiors, which is based in Vancouver. Amanda opened her business in 2009, before the birth... Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today, Amanda Evans, is someone you may know through Instagram. She is the Founder and Principal of Amanda Evans Interiors, which is based in Vancouver. Amanda opened her business in 2009, before the birth of  Theo, her first child. Today Amanda talks to LuAnn about what work looked like for her before Theo came into her life, what it looked like after Theo began pre-school and what it looks like now, after their daughter, Marlee, who is now just three months old, was born. Listen in to find out more. On the show today, Amanda gives a detailed explanation of how she grew and then filled her pipeline, so that now, only three years later, she already has three employees. If you have been battling with ways to give your new (or existing firm) a boost in getting new leads, you're going to really enjoy today's show. Listen in now, to find out from Amanda some ways to handle the transitions in life, both from a business standpoint and when things come at you personally. Show highlights: Some of Amanda's observations about the transitions in her life, over the last few years. Amanda's really intentional way of creating relationships with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to work with. What it was like for Amanda, and how she coped, when she first joined the mostly male Builder's Association and started going to networking meetings. Amanda's way of initiating a first meeting, to connect with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to build relationships with. Some lessons that Amanda learned, and how her thinking changed, while making the transitions in her life. How Amanda was able to up-level her work and take on even more, by hiring people to assist her. Taking the pain out of developing new relationships with Builders or Contractors. How Amanda managed to get ideal team together. Some advice to help you to hire the right people for your business. Amanda's way of growing her Instagram, to get over 12 000 followers. Some things to watch out for, when tagging people on Instagram. You really do need to credit your photographer! Winning ways to work with Instagram. Some tips for engaging with your Instagram Community. Links: Website: www.aeinteriors.ca Instagram: @amandaevansinteriors Facebook: Facebook.com/amandaevansinteriors Twitter: @amandaevansinc   Previous shows mentioned on this episode:  Nancy Ganzekaupher #256 Tabitha Carro #235 Shea McGee #236 Amber Lewis #184 Welcome to today's show! Our guest for today, Amanda Evans, is someone you may know through Instagram. She is the Founder and Principal of Amanda Evans Interiors, which is based in Vancouver. Amanda opened her business in 2009, before the birth of  Theo, her first child. Today Amanda talks to LuAnn about what work looked like for her before Theo came into her life, what it looked like after Theo began pre-school and what it looks like now, after their daughter, Marlee, who is now just three months old, was born. Listen in to find out more.

On the show today, Amanda gives a detailed explanation of how she grew and then filled her pipeline, so that now, only three years later, she already has three employees. If you have been battling with ways to give your new (or existing firm) a boost in getting new leads, you're going to really enjoy today's show. Listen in now, to find out from Amanda some ways to handle the transitions in life, both from a business standpoint and when things come at you personally.

Show highlights:

  • Some of Amanda's observations about the transitions in her life, over the last few years.
  • Amanda's really intentional way of creating relationships with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to work with.
  • What it was like for Amanda, and how she coped, when she first joined the mostly male Builder's Association and started going to networking meetings.
  • Amanda's way of initiating a first meeting, to connect with the Builders and Realtors that she wanted to build relationships with.
  • Some lessons that Amanda learned, and how her thinking changed, while making the transitions in her life.
  • How Amanda was able to up-level her work and take on even more, by hiring people to assist her.
  • Taking the pain out of developing new relationships with Builders or Contractors.
  • How Amanda managed to get ideal team together.
  • Some advice to help you to hire the right people for your business.
  • Amanda's way of growing her Instagram, to get over 12 000 followers.
  • Some things to watch out for, when tagging people on Instagram.
  • You really do need to credit your photographer!
  • Winning ways to work with Instagram.
  • Some tips for engaging with your Instagram Community.

Links:

Website: www.aeinteriors.ca Instagram: @amandaevansinteriors Facebook: Facebook.com/amandaevansinteriors Twitter: @amandaevansinc   Previous shows mentioned on this episode: 

Nancy Ganzekaupher #256

Tabitha Carro #235

Shea McGee #236

Amber Lewis #184

]]> 4127 no 262: Power Talk Friday - Dezignwall- What is it? With Joseph Haecker http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/262-power-talk-friday-dezignwall-what-is-it-with-joseph-haecker Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today LuAnn is really excited to have Joe Haecker, The CEO and Founder of Dezignwall, with her on the show. Listen in to find out more about this awesome social network platform, created specifically for the Design community. Dezignwall is the fastest growing network for Design and Architectural professionals, worldwide. It is the very first social platform to address the specific needs of the international Design community and it blends the features found on top social media platforms with the ability to produce products. The goal of Dezignwall is to unite the International Design and Products community, in order to help the industry to compete in a constantly changing and growing global marketplace. Joe's background is in Custom Lighting, for hotels, casinos, high end residential and Daylight Tubular Skylight Industries. He has been responsible for setting trends, developing innovations and also coordinating world-class projects internationally, for more than seventeen years. He has served as Head Of Design for Triton Chandelier, Alger Lighting, and Solatube International. He has also consulted for many custom lighting companies, including iWorks, Spectrum, 3Form Light-Art Schonbek and lots of others. Joe has a passion for the success of the industry and he serves as an Industry Advocate, fostering a focus on global communication, collaboration and restoring the value of luxury in the industry. Joe is a single Dad of two sons and he is very involved in Business Consulting, Mentoring and establishing an ecosystem for startups and Tech Companies in the Antelope Valley and Kern Country areas of Southern California. Listen in now! Show highlights: Joe explains how Dezignwall came about, what it is and why you, as a Designer, should care. The difference between Dezignwall and Instagram. Dezignwall is a place for one of a kind artisans. The multiple angles that a product can be viewed, on Dezignwall. The awesome features to be found on Dezignwall. Why a Designer would want to upload their projects onto Dezignwall. How Dezignwall works as a sales efficiency tool. How Dezignwall works for Designers and how it works for consumers. Joe's motivation in creating Dezignwall. Dezignwall is the only social network platform that features Podcasts. Joe explains the value of having your Podcast featured on this platform, to tell your Design story. Dezignwall is a tool that has access to analytics, so it can really help you to cater to the specific needs of each client. Everything on this platform can be accessed via a keyword search. The benefits of this platform, for reaching and connecting with a global market. Dezignwall as a system for coordinating the Trade Shows that you attended. The goal that Joe had in mind when creating this platform. Resources:  Website: www.dezignwall.com FB LIVE Talkshow: https://www.facebook.com/events/502777173434577/?ti=cl Social Handle: @Dezignwall, Inc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCycMyaEpwYZVOg0D7pfIfA/featured Follow LuAnn on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRScT16XD_jq_NqsPPawDA Fri, 24 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today LuAnn is really excited to have Joe Haecker, The CEO and Founder of Dezignwall, with her on the show. Listen in to find out more about this awesome social network platform, created specifically for the... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today LuAnn is really excited to have Joe Haecker, The CEO and Founder of Dezignwall, with her on the show. Listen in to find out more about this awesome social network platform, created specifically for the Design community. Dezignwall is the fastest growing network for Design and Architectural professionals, worldwide. It is the very first social platform to address the specific needs of the international Design community and it blends the features found on top social media platforms with the ability to produce products. The goal of Dezignwall is to unite the International Design and Products community, in order to help the industry to compete in a constantly changing and growing global marketplace. Joe's background is in Custom Lighting, for hotels, casinos, high end residential and Daylight Tubular Skylight Industries. He has been responsible for setting trends, developing innovations and also coordinating world-class projects internationally, for more than seventeen years. He has served as Head Of Design for Triton Chandelier, Alger Lighting, and Solatube International. He has also consulted for many custom lighting companies, including iWorks, Spectrum, 3Form Light-Art Schonbek and lots of others. Joe has a passion for the success of the industry and he serves as an Industry Advocate, fostering a focus on global communication, collaboration and restoring the value of luxury in the industry. Joe is a single Dad of two sons and he is very involved in Business Consulting, Mentoring and establishing an ecosystem for startups and Tech Companies in the Antelope Valley and Kern Country areas of Southern California. Listen in now! Show highlights: Joe explains how Dezignwall came about, what it is and why you, as a Designer, should care. The difference between Dezignwall and Instagram. Dezignwall is a place for one of a kind artisans. The multiple angles that a product can be viewed, on Dezignwall. The awesome features to be found on Dezignwall. Why a Designer would want to upload their projects onto Dezignwall. How Dezignwall works as a sales efficiency tool. How Dezignwall works for Designers and how it works for consumers. Joe's motivation in creating Dezignwall. Dezignwall is the only social network platform that features Podcasts. Joe explains the value of having your Podcast featured on this platform, to tell your Design story. Dezignwall is a tool that has access to analytics, so it can really help you to cater to the specific needs of each client. Everything on this platform can be accessed via a keyword search. The benefits of this platform, for reaching and connecting with a global market. Dezignwall as a system for coordinating the Trade Shows that you attended. The goal that Joe had in mind when creating this platform. Resources:  Website: www.dezignwall.com FB LIVE Talkshow: https://www.facebook.com/events/502777173434577/?ti=cl Social Handle: @Dezignwall, Inc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCycMyaEpwYZVOg0D7pfIfA/featured Follow LuAnn on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRScT16XD_jq_NqsPPawDA Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today LuAnn is really excited to have Joe Haecker, The CEO and Founder of Dezignwall, with her on the show. Listen in to find out more about this awesome social network platform, created specifically for the Design community.

Dezignwall is the fastest growing network for Design and Architectural professionals, worldwide. It is the very first social platform to address the specific needs of the international Design community and it blends the features found on top social media platforms with the ability to produce products. The goal of Dezignwall is to unite the International Design and Products community, in order to help the industry to compete in a constantly changing and growing global marketplace.

Joe's background is in Custom Lighting, for hotels, casinos, high end residential and Daylight Tubular Skylight Industries. He has been responsible for setting trends, developing innovations and also coordinating world-class projects internationally, for more than seventeen years. He has served as Head Of Design for Triton Chandelier, Alger Lighting, and Solatube International. He has also consulted for many custom lighting companies, including iWorks, Spectrum, 3Form Light-Art Schonbek and lots of others. Joe has a passion for the success of the industry and he serves as an Industry Advocate, fostering a focus on global communication, collaboration and restoring the value of luxury in the industry. Joe is a single Dad of two sons and he is very involved in Business Consulting, Mentoring and establishing an ecosystem for startups and Tech Companies in the Antelope Valley and Kern Country areas of Southern California. Listen in now!

Show highlights:

  • Joe explains how Dezignwall came about, what it is and why you, as a Designer, should care.
  • The difference between Dezignwall and Instagram.
  • Dezignwall is a place for one of a kind artisans.
  • The multiple angles that a product can be viewed, on Dezignwall.
  • The awesome features to be found on Dezignwall.
  • Why a Designer would want to upload their projects onto Dezignwall.
  • How Dezignwall works as a sales efficiency tool.
  • How Dezignwall works for Designers and how it works for consumers.
  • Joe's motivation in creating Dezignwall.
  • Dezignwall is the only social network platform that features Podcasts.
  • Joe explains the value of having your Podcast featured on this platform, to tell your Design story.
  • Dezignwall is a tool that has access to analytics, so it can really help you to cater to the specific needs of each client.
  • Everything on this platform can be accessed via a keyword search.
  • The benefits of this platform, for reaching and connecting with a global market.
  • Dezignwall as a system for coordinating the Trade Shows that you attended.
  • The goal that Joe had in mind when creating this platform.

Resources: 

Website: www.dezignwall.com

FB LIVE Talkshow: https://www.facebook.com/events/502777173434577/?ti=cl

Social Handle: @Dezignwall, Inc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCycMyaEpwYZVOg0D7pfIfA/featured

Follow LuAnn on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRScT16XD_jq_NqsPPawDA

]]> 3721 no 261: Shannon Tate: The Road to Interior Design isn’t Always Straight http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/261-shannon-tate-the-road-to-interior-design-isnt-always-straight Welcome to today's episode! We have Shannon Tate, a real go-getter, with us on the show today. She opened her business, Shannon Tate Interiors, in 2012, after having worked in a very diverse range of artistic fields, such Acting, Fine Art, Fashion, Writing, Lifestyle Coaching and even spending some time working as a Private Chef. Shannon, who is also a Certified Holistic Health Coach, loves to pair her artistic vision with her sense of empathy, her Reiki training and her knowledge of Ayurveda and Feng Shui. In addition to her Interior Design Services, Shannon designs and creates custom furniture, art and home décor for her projects. After being in business for only five years, Shannon has been featured in Home Polish three times, Apartment Therapy twice, Design Sponge, Domino, The Nest, New England Home, and Modern Sanctuary. Listen in now, to find out more about Shannon's artistic approach to her Interior Design business. Shannon grew up both in New York and Los Angeles. On today's show, she shares the story of how she, her husband and their daughter ended up in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, so listen in, to find out more. Show highlights: Shannon talks about her earlier career, which eventually brought her to Interior Design. A funny story about why Shannon left Design School when she was still very young. The food business that Shannon and her husband ran together. How Shannon has managed to incorporate her Lifestyle Coaching with Interior Design. Their crazy move to Massachusetts, which prompted Shannon to hire a Coach. How Shannon got featured in so many top Design Publications, after opening her business only five years ago. How Shannon works to get what she really wants. The nuts and bolts of how Shannon Tate Interiors is run. Shannon explains her recent change in the way that she charges her clients. How Shannon deals with clients who want to negotiate her contract. Offering excellent Customer Service, without compromising your own principals. What's coming up for Shannon in 2018. Connect with Shannon: www.shannontateinteriors.com Facebook Instagram Remember that you can get 10% off your first purchase from Kravet, by going to www.curatedkravet.com  and using the code CK Podcast at the checkout. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Ren Miller #12 Fred Berns #174 Claire Staszak #166 Amy Flurry #108 Lesley Myrick #37 Marina Umali #248 Kerry Leskowitz #98 To contact LuAnn, you can text her using the word Design Biz on 444999, or you can email her at info@luannnigara.com . Wed, 22 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode! We have Shannon Tate, a real go-getter, with us on the show today. She opened her business, Shannon Tate Interiors, in 2012, after having worked in a very diverse range of artistic fields, such Acting, Fine Art, Fashion,... Welcome to today's episode! We have Shannon Tate, a real go-getter, with us on the show today. She opened her business, Shannon Tate Interiors, in 2012, after having worked in a very diverse range of artistic fields, such Acting, Fine Art, Fashion, Writing, Lifestyle Coaching and even spending some time working as a Private Chef. Shannon, who is also a Certified Holistic Health Coach, loves to pair her artistic vision with her sense of empathy, her Reiki training and her knowledge of Ayurveda and Feng Shui. In addition to her Interior Design Services, Shannon designs and creates custom furniture, art and home décor for her projects. After being in business for only five years, Shannon has been featured in Home Polish three times, Apartment Therapy twice, Design Sponge, Domino, The Nest, New England Home, and Modern Sanctuary. Listen in now, to find out more about Shannon's artistic approach to her Interior Design business. Shannon grew up both in New York and Los Angeles. On today's show, she shares the story of how she, her husband and their daughter ended up in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, so listen in, to find out more. Show highlights: Shannon talks about her earlier career, which eventually brought her to Interior Design. A funny story about why Shannon left Design School when she was still very young. The food business that Shannon and her husband ran together. How Shannon has managed to incorporate her Lifestyle Coaching with Interior Design. Their crazy move to Massachusetts, which prompted Shannon to hire a Coach. How Shannon got featured in so many top Design Publications, after opening her business only five years ago. How Shannon works to get what she really wants. The nuts and bolts of how Shannon Tate Interiors is run. Shannon explains her recent change in the way that she charges her clients. How Shannon deals with clients who want to negotiate her contract. Offering excellent Customer Service, without compromising your own principals. What's coming up for Shannon in 2018. Connect with Shannon: www.shannontateinteriors.com Facebook Instagram Remember that you can get 10% off your first purchase from Kravet, by going to www.curatedkravet.com  and using the code CK Podcast at the checkout. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Ren Miller #12 Fred Berns #174 Claire Staszak #166 Amy Flurry #108 Lesley Myrick #37 Marina Umali #248 Kerry Leskowitz #98 To contact LuAnn, you can text her using the word Design Biz on 444999, or you can email her at info@luannnigara.com . Welcome to today's episode! We have Shannon Tate, a real go-getter, with us on the show today. She opened her business, Shannon Tate Interiors, in 2012, after having worked in a very diverse range of artistic fields, such Acting, Fine Art, Fashion, Writing, Lifestyle Coaching and even spending some time working as a Private Chef. Shannon, who is also a Certified Holistic Health Coach, loves to pair her artistic vision with her sense of empathy, her Reiki training and her knowledge of Ayurveda and Feng Shui.

In addition to her Interior Design Services, Shannon designs and creates custom furniture, art and home décor for her projects. After being in business for only five years, Shannon has been featured in Home Polish three times, Apartment Therapy twice, Design Sponge, Domino, The Nest, New England Home, and Modern Sanctuary. Listen in now, to find out more about Shannon's artistic approach to her Interior Design business.

Shannon grew up both in New York and Los Angeles. On today's show, she shares the story of how she, her husband and their daughter ended up in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, so listen in, to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Shannon talks about her earlier career, which eventually brought her to Interior Design.
  • A funny story about why Shannon left Design School when she was still very young.
  • The food business that Shannon and her husband ran together.
  • How Shannon has managed to incorporate her Lifestyle Coaching with Interior Design.
  • Their crazy move to Massachusetts, which prompted Shannon to hire a Coach.
  • How Shannon got featured in so many top Design Publications, after opening her business only five years ago.
  • How Shannon works to get what she really wants.
  • The nuts and bolts of how Shannon Tate Interiors is run.
  • Shannon explains her recent change in the way that she charges her clients.
  • How Shannon deals with clients who want to negotiate her contract.
  • Offering excellent Customer Service, without compromising your own principals.
  • What's coming up for Shannon in 2018.

Connect with Shannon:

www.shannontateinteriors.com

Facebook

Instagram

Remember that you can get 10% off your first purchase from Kravet, by going to www.curatedkravet.com  and using the code CK Podcast at the checkout.

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Ren Miller #12

Fred Berns #174

Claire Staszak #166

Amy Flurry #108

Lesley Myrick #37

Marina Umali #248

Kerry Leskowitz #98

To contact LuAnn, you can text her using the word Design Biz on 444999, or you can email her at info@luannnigara.com .

]]> 4042 no 260: Chaney Widmer - A 100% E-Design Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/260-chaney-widmer-a-100-e-design-interior-design-firm A special 'hello' to all our new listeners and a warm welcome to the show!  Today we are really happy to introduce you to our guest, Chaney Widmer, the Founder of Mix And Match Design Company. Chaney is a very smart lady, who saw a need in the market and created a really innovative way to fill it. She offers One On One Decorating Services, through her  E-Design and Online Interior Design and on her Mix And Match Blog, she shares her decorating tips and inspiration. Listen in, to find out more about  E-Design and how to make it work profitably for you. Today, Chaney explains how she created Mix And Match Design, in order to provide affordable and accessible Interior Design to everyone. After many years of writing a Design Blog and helping her friends and family to put together beautiful homes that they loved, Chaney decided that the time had come for her launch her own internet-based Design Business. Chaney is fully committed to taking the intimidation out of Interior Design, whether her client is starting from scratch with a brand new home,  adding a few pieces to pull a room together or even just looking for a way to take their space from looking good to looking really great! Listen in now, to hear Chaney's poised and intelligent approach to her carefully designed business model. Show highlights: Chaney explains why she chose to focus her business on  E-Design. What motivated Chaney to deal with the specific market that she has chosen to focus on. The demographics of the market that Chaney focuses on. The really reasonable cost of working with Chaney. The number of hours that Chaney typically spends on a $300 project. The time that it takes for Chaney to complete her average project. How her processes have evolved, over time. Chaney's detailed, but not overwhelming survey that she gives her clients to complete. How Chaney created the contract that she currently uses with her clients. How Chaney makes her money through affiliate links. Great resources for an affiliate networks, as a way to earn money through their affiliate programs. The type metric that is sought after, for Affiliate Programs. What creating an Affiliate Link would involve- it's really easy! The kind of service that Chaney offers her clients. How Chaney does her follow-ups. The eDesign Course that Chaney is going to be launching soon. The target market for Chaney's upcoming eDesign Course. Resources for Affiliate Programs:                  Reward Style Network – An application based Affiliate Network. Shop Style Collective – Have a pay per click affiliate program. J. Affiliate. Sign up for “How To Launch An E-Design Business" online course email list signup: bit.ly/launchanedesignbusiness Connect with Chaney on social media: Website: com Blog: com/new-blog Instagram: @mixandmatchdesigncompany Facebook: com/mixandmatchdesigncompany Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Christina Perry: #5 Danielle Liss #179 To get 10% off your next whole order from Curated Kravet Inc. head over to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast at the check out. Mon, 20 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara A special 'hello' to all our new listeners and a warm welcome to the show!  Today we are really happy to introduce you to our guest, Chaney Widmer, the Founder of Mix And Match Design Company. Chaney is a very smart lady, who saw a need in the... A special 'hello' to all our new listeners and a warm welcome to the show!  Today we are really happy to introduce you to our guest, Chaney Widmer, the Founder of Mix And Match Design Company. Chaney is a very smart lady, who saw a need in the market and created a really innovative way to fill it. She offers One On One Decorating Services, through her  E-Design and Online Interior Design and on her Mix And Match Blog, she shares her decorating tips and inspiration. Listen in, to find out more about  E-Design and how to make it work profitably for you. Today, Chaney explains how she created Mix And Match Design, in order to provide affordable and accessible Interior Design to everyone. After many years of writing a Design Blog and helping her friends and family to put together beautiful homes that they loved, Chaney decided that the time had come for her launch her own internet-based Design Business. Chaney is fully committed to taking the intimidation out of Interior Design, whether her client is starting from scratch with a brand new home,  adding a few pieces to pull a room together or even just looking for a way to take their space from looking good to looking really great! Listen in now, to hear Chaney's poised and intelligent approach to her carefully designed business model. Show highlights: Chaney explains why she chose to focus her business on  E-Design. What motivated Chaney to deal with the specific market that she has chosen to focus on. The demographics of the market that Chaney focuses on. The really reasonable cost of working with Chaney. The number of hours that Chaney typically spends on a $300 project. The time that it takes for Chaney to complete her average project. How her processes have evolved, over time. Chaney's detailed, but not overwhelming survey that she gives her clients to complete. How Chaney created the contract that she currently uses with her clients. How Chaney makes her money through affiliate links. Great resources for an affiliate networks, as a way to earn money through their affiliate programs. The type metric that is sought after, for Affiliate Programs. What creating an Affiliate Link would involve- it's really easy! The kind of service that Chaney offers her clients. How Chaney does her follow-ups. The eDesign Course that Chaney is going to be launching soon. The target market for Chaney's upcoming eDesign Course. Resources for Affiliate Programs:                  Reward Style Network – An application based Affiliate Network. Shop Style Collective – Have a pay per click affiliate program. J. Affiliate. Sign up for “How To Launch An E-Design Business" online course email list signup: bit.ly/launchanedesignbusiness Connect with Chaney on social media: Website: com Blog: com/new-blog Instagram: @mixandmatchdesigncompany Facebook: com/mixandmatchdesigncompany Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Christina Perry: #5 Danielle Liss #179 To get 10% off your next whole order from Curated Kravet Inc. head over to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast at the check out. A special 'hello' to all our new listeners and a warm welcome to the show!  Today we are really happy to introduce you to our guest, Chaney Widmer, the Founder of Mix And Match Design Company. Chaney is a very smart lady, who saw a need in the market and created a really innovative way to fill it. She offers One On One Decorating Services, through her  E-Design and Online Interior Design and on her Mix And Match Blog, she shares her decorating tips and inspiration. Listen in, to find out more about  E-Design and how to make it work profitably for you.

Today, Chaney explains how she created Mix And Match Design, in order to provide affordable and accessible Interior Design to everyone. After many years of writing a Design Blog and helping her friends and family to put together beautiful homes that they loved, Chaney decided that the time had come for her launch her own internet-based Design Business. Chaney is fully committed to taking the intimidation out of Interior Design, whether her client is starting from scratch with a brand new home,  adding a few pieces to pull a room together or even just looking for a way to take their space from looking good to looking really great! Listen in now, to hear Chaney's poised and intelligent approach to her carefully designed business model.

Show highlights:

  • Chaney explains why she chose to focus her business on  E-Design.
  • What motivated Chaney to deal with the specific market that she has chosen to focus on.
  • The demographics of the market that Chaney focuses on.
  • The really reasonable cost of working with Chaney.
  • The number of hours that Chaney typically spends on a $300 project.
  • The time that it takes for Chaney to complete her average project.
  • How her processes have evolved, over time.
  • Chaney's detailed, but not overwhelming survey that she gives her clients to complete.
  • How Chaney created the contract that she currently uses with her clients.
  • How Chaney makes her money through affiliate links.
  • Great resources for an affiliate networks, as a way to earn money through their affiliate programs.
  • The type metric that is sought after, for Affiliate Programs.
  • What creating an Affiliate Link would involve- it's really easy!
  • The kind of service that Chaney offers her clients.
  • How Chaney does her follow-ups.
  • The eDesign Course that Chaney is going to be launching soon.
  • The target market for Chaney's upcoming eDesign Course.

Resources for Affiliate Programs:

                 Reward Style Network – An application based Affiliate Network.

Shop Style Collective – Have a pay per click affiliate program.

  1. J. Affiliate.

Sign up for “How To Launch An E-Design Business" online course email list signup: bit.ly/launchanedesignbusiness

Connect with Chaney on social media:

Previous shows mentioned in this episode:

Christina Perry: #5

Danielle Liss #179

To get 10% off your next whole order from Curated Kravet Inc. head over to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast at the check out.

]]> 4312 no 259: Kae Whitaker - Get New Clients with the Right Email Sequence http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/259-kae-whitaker-get-new-clients-with-the-right-email-sequence Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences... It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing. If you're a new listener and you haven't yet been introduced to Kae, this is the fourth time that she's been on this show and she is really well loved by all who listen in. She was on episode 26, 66 and 114. In the past, we have discussed branding, how to hire and train interns and how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business. Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?  Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business. Show highlights: Kae explains what a Sales Funnel Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers. The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing. Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing. Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address. You're really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they're interested. Why video works so well, as an opt-in. What to do, right after getting your first opt-in. How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails. The whole point behind Email Marketing. What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include. The right time to schedule a chat with someone. Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling) Not stopping after the first 'no' can really set you apart from other Designers. If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well! Some alternative ideas, if you don't want to appear on camera. All about what's to be expected from Kae's soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast. Why Kae designed her Email Marketing Bootcamp- and who it's for. The importance of spending the time to learn something new. Kae's course will cost $949 retail, and you, as listeners to A Well Designed Business Podcast will get a hefty 25% discount. Go to kaewhitaker.com/luanneemail to find the check-out form on the website. You can either pay it all at once, or you can even split it into three monthly payments. Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing. Links: Kae’s course, Email Marketing Bootcamp is open and teaches everything you need to know in order to develop your own pipeline filling email strategy — A Well-Designed Business podcast listeners can get 25% off the $949.00 course by going to  www.kaewhitaker.com/luannemail Her website: http://kaewhitaker.com Fri, 17 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about... Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences... It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing. If you're a new listener and you haven't yet been introduced to Kae, this is the fourth time that she's been on this show and she is really well loved by all who listen in. She was on episode 26, 66 and 114. In the past, we have discussed branding, how to hire and train interns and how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business. Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?  Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business. Show highlights: Kae explains what a Sales Funnel Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers. The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing. Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing. Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address. You're really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they're interested. Why video works so well, as an opt-in. What to do, right after getting your first opt-in. How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails. The whole point behind Email Marketing. What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include. The right time to schedule a chat with someone. Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling) Not stopping after the first 'no' can really set you apart from other Designers. If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well! Some alternative ideas, if you don't want to appear on camera. All about what's to be expected from Kae's soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast. Why Kae designed her Email Marketing Bootcamp- and who it's for. The importance of spending the time to learn something new. Kae's course will cost $949 retail, and you, as listeners to A Well Designed Business Podcast will get a hefty 25% discount. Go to kaewhitaker.com/luanneemail to find the check-out form on the website. You can either pay it all at once, or you can even split it into three monthly payments. Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing. Links: Kae’s course, Email Marketing Bootcamp is open and teaches everything you need to know in order to develop your own pipeline filling email strategy — A Well-Designed Business podcast listeners can get 25% off the $949.00 course by going to  www.kaewhitaker.com/luannemail Her website: http://kaewhitaker.com Welcome to another episode of Power Talk Friday! Everyone can start doing their happy dance today because we have Kae Whitaker on the show! After doing her really great series all about Facebook, LuAnn was considering doing another series, about landing pages, click funnels, email responders etc. She was out there, in Podcast Land, listening and looking out for the right person to have on the show- someone who could really relate to you, as Designers, as well as having all the necessary know-how, when out of the blue, she got a notification that Kae Whitaker was going live on Instagram. She went on over to have a look and there was Kae, talking about click funnels and email sequences... It was like hitting the jackpot for LuAnn because she knows that Kae really talks our language, so listen in to find out what Kae has to share with you today, about Email Marketing.

If you're a new listener and you haven't yet been introduced to Kae, this is the fourth time that she's been on this show and she is really well loved by all who listen in. She was on episode 26, 66 and 114. In the past, we have discussed branding, how to hire and train interns and how to conduct a proper year-end review of your business. Today Kae is here to talk about Sales Funnels. What they are, why we need to know about them and how we can apply them to our individual interior design firms. Kae answers the questions: What kind of content should be in an email sequence and how often should I send a potential client an email?

 Kay is the Owner and the CEO  of Kae Whitaker Solutions and she has more than ten years of experience in Retail Sales and Marketing Development. Now, her focus is on helping Small Businesses to stay competitive in their market and helping them to reach and surpass their revenue goals. She has worked with some of the largest national retailers and she now leverages her expertise in Retail Sales and Marketing Development to create her Premium Coaching Programs, that really help Small Business owners to tune in to what matters most in their Marketing efforts, by streamlining their processes and maximizing on their clientele. Kae's highest achievements come from helping others to reach their goals and she really loves having the opportunity to help people to take their brand to the next level. So, listen in now, to find out how to tune in to what really matters most for your business.

Show highlights:

  • Kae explains what a Sales Funnel
  • Why Sales Funnels are really important for Designers.
  • The major difference in the number of conversions, and also the ability to predict revenue, that Kae has experienced in her firm, since starting with Email Marketing.
  • Where to start, with developing your Email Marketing.
  • Thinking about what you could offer for free, in return for an email address.
  • You're really not interrupting anyone, with Email Marketing, because they only opt-in if they're interested.
  • Why video works so well, as an opt-in.
  • What to do, right after getting your first opt-in.
  • How to build a great, trusting relationship, through your emails.
  • The whole point behind Email Marketing.
  • What the content of the sequence of emails, following the opt-in, should include.
  • The right time to schedule a chat with someone.
  • Working with an Automated Email Responder. (Like Acuity Scheduling)
  • Not stopping after the first 'no' can really set you apart from other Designers.
  • If you can muster up the courage to get in front of a camera, do it! The video really converts well!
  • Some alternative ideas, if you don't want to appear on camera.
  • All about what's to be expected from Kae's soon to be launched Email Marketing Bootcamp. It will be live on Tuesdays at 8 pm (Central Standard Time) and it will be recorded, so you can still catch it if you miss the live broadcast.
  • Why Kae designed her Email Marketing Bootcamp- and who it's for.
  • The importance of spending the time to learn something new.
  • Kae's course will cost $949 retail, and you, as listeners to A Well Designed Business Podcast will get a hefty 25% discount. Go to kaewhitaker.com/luanneemail to find the check-out form on the website. You can either pay it all at once, or you can even split it into three monthly payments.
  • Kae will be back on the show soon, to talk about the more technical side of Email Marketing.

Links:

Kae’s course, Email Marketing Bootcamp is open and teaches everything you need to know in order to develop your own pipeline filling email strategy — A Well-Designed Business podcast listeners can get 25% off the $949.00 course by going to 

www.kaewhitaker.com/luannemail

Her website:

http://kaewhitaker.com

]]> 3102 no 258: Lisa Escobar - When Your Ideal Client Isn’t Who You Thought it Was http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/258-lisa-escobar-when-your-ideal-client-isnt-who-you-thought-it-was Today we have Lisa Escobar on the show and she has a Design Firm based in Las Vegas. Lisa was initially connected to LuAnn through Christie Leu (episode #182) and Darci Hether (episode #220). Lisa, Christie, Darcy and another Designer, Jessie Cooney, met at an Interior Designer Workshop Summit. They really hit it off and decided to all meet again, for a weekend retreat. Today, on the show, Lisa discusses the value of getting together with other Designers and having some quality one on one time together and she also talks about her firm, Lisa Escobar Design. Listen in to find out more. Lisa is from Las Vegas, and growing up in the 'Entertainment Capital of the World' has really had an impact on her career, where she has managed to complete a vast range of projects in an impressively short time. She has consulted on and managed high-rise condo transformations, high-end residential spaces, and new build designs, both locally and beyond. She has shaped concepts and designs for Commercial and Hospitality projects alike, collaborating with the best of the industry's Design Professionals. The influence of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas has helped Lisa to add flair and high style comfort to everything she's touched. Travelling to places such as China, Spain, and France has offered her inspiration to draw from daily, to shape her vibrant and polished style. Lisa is steadily gaining recognition from the Design Community and well-respected brands such as HGTV, Houzz, International Market Centres and the High Point Market Authority view her as a sought after tastemaker and a rising star. Lisa's ten-year history of working alongside Hotel Executives, Nightclub Owners and high profile clientele at top resorts has led her to create a business that really encompasses some very important principals. Lisa was left ingrained with some vital key service values, from the Five Star Five Diamond environment of the Wynn and Encore Resorts. Listen in today, to find out more about Lisa's approach to her Design Business, which really sets her apart from the rest. Show highlights: The great benefits of spending quality one on one time with other Designers. The 'secret sauce' behind the really valuable time that Lisa spent at the weekend retreat with three other Superwoman Designers, Christy Lou, Darcy Heather and Jessie Cooney. Lisa discusses how her typically high level, CEO, high performer, mostly male, niche market came about. The way that Lisa leverages her previous work experience in the Hospitality Industry, for her current business. How Lisa evolved towards realizing her niche. Looking at your strengths, to find your ideal market. An unintentional marketing tactic that really worked! Lisa's experience of being at Cambria's Residential Style-makers Summit, in Minnesota and how she got to go there. All about Lisa's Firm. The secret to how to ask for money. Paying attention to your gut feelings. Wed, 15 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Lisa Escobar on the show and she has a Design Firm based in Las Vegas. Lisa was initially connected to LuAnn through Christie Leu (episode #182) and Darci Hether (episode #220). Lisa, Christie, Darcy and another Designer, Jessie Cooney,... Today we have Lisa Escobar on the show and she has a Design Firm based in Las Vegas. Lisa was initially connected to LuAnn through Christie Leu (episode #182) and Darci Hether (episode #220). Lisa, Christie, Darcy and another Designer, Jessie Cooney, met at an Interior Designer Workshop Summit. They really hit it off and decided to all meet again, for a weekend retreat. Today, on the show, Lisa discusses the value of getting together with other Designers and having some quality one on one time together and she also talks about her firm, Lisa Escobar Design. Listen in to find out more. Lisa is from Las Vegas, and growing up in the 'Entertainment Capital of the World' has really had an impact on her career, where she has managed to complete a vast range of projects in an impressively short time. She has consulted on and managed high-rise condo transformations, high-end residential spaces, and new build designs, both locally and beyond. She has shaped concepts and designs for Commercial and Hospitality projects alike, collaborating with the best of the industry's Design Professionals. The influence of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas has helped Lisa to add flair and high style comfort to everything she's touched. Travelling to places such as China, Spain, and France has offered her inspiration to draw from daily, to shape her vibrant and polished style. Lisa is steadily gaining recognition from the Design Community and well-respected brands such as HGTV, Houzz, International Market Centres and the High Point Market Authority view her as a sought after tastemaker and a rising star. Lisa's ten-year history of working alongside Hotel Executives, Nightclub Owners and high profile clientele at top resorts has led her to create a business that really encompasses some very important principals. Lisa was left ingrained with some vital key service values, from the Five Star Five Diamond environment of the Wynn and Encore Resorts. Listen in today, to find out more about Lisa's approach to her Design Business, which really sets her apart from the rest. Show highlights: The great benefits of spending quality one on one time with other Designers. The 'secret sauce' behind the really valuable time that Lisa spent at the weekend retreat with three other Superwoman Designers, Christy Lou, Darcy Heather and Jessie Cooney. Lisa discusses how her typically high level, CEO, high performer, mostly male, niche market came about. The way that Lisa leverages her previous work experience in the Hospitality Industry, for her current business. How Lisa evolved towards realizing her niche. Looking at your strengths, to find your ideal market. An unintentional marketing tactic that really worked! Lisa's experience of being at Cambria's Residential Style-makers Summit, in Minnesota and how she got to go there. All about Lisa's Firm. The secret to how to ask for money. Paying attention to your gut feelings. Today we have Lisa Escobar on the show and she has a Design Firm based in Las Vegas. Lisa was initially connected to LuAnn through Christie Leu (episode #182) and Darci Hether (episode #220). Lisa, Christie, Darcy and another Designer, Jessie Cooney, met at an Interior Designer Workshop Summit. They really hit it off and decided to all meet again, for a weekend retreat. Today, on the show, Lisa discusses the value of getting together with other Designers and having some quality one on one time together and she also talks about her firm, Lisa Escobar Design. Listen in to find out more.

Lisa is from Las Vegas, and growing up in the 'Entertainment Capital of the World' has really had an impact on her career, where she has managed to complete a vast range of projects in an impressively short time. She has consulted on and managed high-rise condo transformations, high-end residential spaces, and new build designs, both locally and beyond. She has shaped concepts and designs for Commercial and Hospitality projects alike, collaborating with the best of the industry's Design Professionals. The influence of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas has helped Lisa to add flair and high style comfort to everything she's touched. Travelling to places such as China, Spain, and France has offered her inspiration to draw from daily, to shape her vibrant and polished style. Lisa is steadily gaining recognition from the Design Community and well-respected brands such as HGTV, Houzz, International Market Centres and the High Point Market Authority view her as a sought after tastemaker and a rising star. Lisa's ten-year history of working alongside Hotel Executives, Nightclub Owners and high profile clientele at top resorts has led her to create a business that really encompasses some very important principals. Lisa was left ingrained with some vital key service values, from the Five Star Five Diamond environment of the Wynn and Encore Resorts. Listen in today, to find out more about Lisa's approach to her Design Business, which really sets her apart from the rest.

Show highlights:

  • The great benefits of spending quality one on one time with other Designers.
  • The 'secret sauce' behind the really valuable time that Lisa spent at the weekend retreat with three other Superwoman Designers, Christy Lou, Darcy Heather and Jessie Cooney.
  • Lisa discusses how her typically high level, CEO, high performer, mostly male, niche market came about.
  • The way that Lisa leverages her previous work experience in the Hospitality Industry, for her current business.
  • How Lisa evolved towards realizing her niche.
  • Looking at your strengths, to find your ideal market.
  • An unintentional marketing tactic that really worked!
  • Lisa's experience of being at Cambria's Residential Style-makers Summit, in Minnesota and how she got to go there.
  • All about Lisa's Firm.
  • The secret to how to ask for money.
  • Paying attention to your gut feelings.
]]> 4065 no 257: Dionne Gardner: A Conversation About Landy Gardner Interiors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/257-dionne-gardner-a-conversation-about-landy-gardner-interiors Welcome! Today, we're really happy to introduce you to Landy Gardner Interiors, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Landy Gardner Interiors have a really unique philosophy with which they approach their diverse clientele, where the focus is on individual needs and on combining the comfort of familiarity with new and fresh elements, using techniques both proven and untried. The way that a client works, plays, entertains and relaxes must all be considered, according to the Landy Gardner way of designing. Today, we're really privileged to have Landy's daughter, Dionne, on the show with us. We originally arranged to have both Landy and Dionne on the show, however, due to some technical hitches on their end, the recording of the interview had to be rescheduled twice. Sadly, in the interim, Landy Gardner passed away. He was a man bigger than life and a great, kind soul and even though LuAnn had very little exchange with him, he made a really deep impression on her. Today, Dionne talks about how she started working her Dad, the lessons that she learned from him and also about how she will continue to lead his company and carry on with his legacy, with the help of her team. LuAnn is really so very glad that Dionne decided that she still wanted to go ahead and do the interview with her today, so listen in now, as Dionne shares her memories of her father and the inspiration that he was to her. In 2001, Landy Gardner was named South East Designer Of The Year, by the Atlantic Decorative Arts Centre and he has been named Designer Of The Year by Nashville Magazine. He has been published in Southern Living, Southern Accents, Traditional Home, Nashville Lifestyles, Showcase Of Interior Design, Southern Edition, Better Homes And Gardens, Boulevards, Southern Rooms, Interior Design From Miami To Houston, Spectacular Homes Of Tennessee, Atlanta, the cover of Veranda and a feature in Veranda's twentieth anniversary edition- Twenty Years Of Memorable Rooms. Landy has also been on HDTV's  Interior By Design. Landy Gardner Interior's design projects include private residences in Tennessee, New York,  California, Florida, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia and also The Bahamas. He has designed rooms for the Tennessee Governor's Mansion, the Junior League Of Nashville's show houses and the Judd House, in Dalton, Georgia. Landy's commercial work includes Health Spas and Executive Offices in Nashville and office buildings for Hospital Corporation Of America, across the country, and also restaurants and bars for strategic hospitality. Both Landy and His Daughter, Dionne, are rare and extraordinary individuals, as well as being really talented Designers, so listen in to this bittersweet interview, to find out more about Landy Gardner Interiors. Show highlights: How Dionne first came to work for her Dad. What it was like for Dionne, when she started working for her Dad. How Dionne got to know and admire her Dad much more deeply, after working with him. How it was all about the client, for Landy- something that really made him remarkable. The really great, collaborative dynamic that existed between Dionne and Landy. How Dionne now finds herself selecting fabrics in the way that Landy would have done it. Landy's amazingly integrated left brain/ right brain approach to his work. Dionne explains how she learned to shop for clients, using Landy's mindful method. Why Dionne and Landy were able to work together, so successfully. The way that Dionne intends to go forward with her Dad's business and honor his legacy. Landy's mindblowing process of installation, for a project. The importance of being clear about the methods that you use, in your Design process.  Links: Website: http://landygardner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landygardnerinteriors/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/LandyGardner Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome! Today, we're really happy to introduce you to Landy Gardner Interiors, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Landy Gardner Interiors have a really unique philosophy with which they approach their diverse clientele, where the focus is on... Welcome! Today, we're really happy to introduce you to Landy Gardner Interiors, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Landy Gardner Interiors have a really unique philosophy with which they approach their diverse clientele, where the focus is on individual needs and on combining the comfort of familiarity with new and fresh elements, using techniques both proven and untried. The way that a client works, plays, entertains and relaxes must all be considered, according to the Landy Gardner way of designing. Today, we're really privileged to have Landy's daughter, Dionne, on the show with us. We originally arranged to have both Landy and Dionne on the show, however, due to some technical hitches on their end, the recording of the interview had to be rescheduled twice. Sadly, in the interim, Landy Gardner passed away. He was a man bigger than life and a great, kind soul and even though LuAnn had very little exchange with him, he made a really deep impression on her. Today, Dionne talks about how she started working her Dad, the lessons that she learned from him and also about how she will continue to lead his company and carry on with his legacy, with the help of her team. LuAnn is really so very glad that Dionne decided that she still wanted to go ahead and do the interview with her today, so listen in now, as Dionne shares her memories of her father and the inspiration that he was to her. In 2001, Landy Gardner was named South East Designer Of The Year, by the Atlantic Decorative Arts Centre and he has been named Designer Of The Year by Nashville Magazine. He has been published in Southern Living, Southern Accents, Traditional Home, Nashville Lifestyles, Showcase Of Interior Design, Southern Edition, Better Homes And Gardens, Boulevards, Southern Rooms, Interior Design From Miami To Houston, Spectacular Homes Of Tennessee, Atlanta, the cover of Veranda and a feature in Veranda's twentieth anniversary edition- Twenty Years Of Memorable Rooms. Landy has also been on HDTV's  Interior By Design. Landy Gardner Interior's design projects include private residences in Tennessee, New York,  California, Florida, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia and also The Bahamas. He has designed rooms for the Tennessee Governor's Mansion, the Junior League Of Nashville's show houses and the Judd House, in Dalton, Georgia. Landy's commercial work includes Health Spas and Executive Offices in Nashville and office buildings for Hospital Corporation Of America, across the country, and also restaurants and bars for strategic hospitality. Both Landy and His Daughter, Dionne, are rare and extraordinary individuals, as well as being really talented Designers, so listen in to this bittersweet interview, to find out more about Landy Gardner Interiors. Show highlights: How Dionne first came to work for her Dad. What it was like for Dionne, when she started working for her Dad. How Dionne got to know and admire her Dad much more deeply, after working with him. How it was all about the client, for Landy- something that really made him remarkable. The really great, collaborative dynamic that existed between Dionne and Landy. How Dionne now finds herself selecting fabrics in the way that Landy would have done it. Landy's amazingly integrated left brain/ right brain approach to his work. Dionne explains how she learned to shop for clients, using Landy's mindful method. Why Dionne and Landy were able to work together, so successfully. The way that Dionne intends to go forward with her Dad's business and honor his legacy. Landy's mindblowing process of installation, for a project. The importance of being clear about the methods that you use, in your Design process.  Links: Website: http://landygardner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landygardnerinteriors/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/LandyGardner Welcome! Today, we're really happy to introduce you to Landy Gardner Interiors, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Landy Gardner Interiors have a really unique philosophy with which they approach their diverse clientele, where the focus is on individual needs and on combining the comfort of familiarity with new and fresh elements, using techniques both proven and untried. The way that a client works, plays, entertains and relaxes must all be considered, according to the Landy Gardner way of designing. Today, we're really privileged to have Landy's daughter, Dionne, on the show with us.

We originally arranged to have both Landy and Dionne on the show, however, due to some technical hitches on their end, the recording of the interview had to be rescheduled twice. Sadly, in the interim, Landy Gardner passed away. He was a man bigger than life and a great, kind soul and even though LuAnn had very little exchange with him, he made a really deep impression on her.

Today, Dionne talks about how she started working her Dad, the lessons that she learned from him and also about how she will continue to lead his company and carry on with his legacy, with the help of her team. LuAnn is really so very glad that Dionne decided that she still wanted to go ahead and do the interview with her today, so listen in now, as Dionne shares her memories of her father and the inspiration that he was to her.

In 2001, Landy Gardner was named South East Designer Of The Year, by the Atlantic Decorative Arts Centre and he has been named Designer Of The Year by Nashville Magazine. He has been published in Southern Living, Southern Accents, Traditional Home, Nashville Lifestyles, Showcase Of Interior Design, Southern Edition, Better Homes And Gardens, Boulevards, Southern Rooms, Interior Design From Miami To Houston, Spectacular Homes Of Tennessee, Atlanta, the cover of Veranda and a feature in Veranda's twentieth anniversary edition- Twenty Years Of Memorable Rooms. Landy has also been on HDTV's  Interior By Design.

Landy Gardner Interior's design projects include private residences in Tennessee, New York,  California, Florida, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia and also The Bahamas. He has designed rooms for the Tennessee Governor's Mansion, the Junior League Of Nashville's show houses and the Judd House, in Dalton, Georgia. Landy's commercial work includes Health Spas and Executive Offices in Nashville and office buildings for Hospital Corporation Of America, across the country, and also restaurants and bars for strategic hospitality. Both Landy and His Daughter, Dionne, are rare and extraordinary individuals, as well as being really talented Designers, so listen in to this bittersweet interview, to find out more about Landy Gardner Interiors.

Show highlights:

  • How Dionne first came to work for her Dad.
  • What it was like for Dionne, when she started working for her Dad.
  • How Dionne got to know and admire her Dad much more deeply, after working with him.
  • How it was all about the client, for Landy- something that really made him remarkable.
  • The really great, collaborative dynamic that existed between Dionne and Landy.
  • How Dionne now finds herself selecting fabrics in the way that Landy would have done it.
  • Landy's amazingly integrated left brain/ right brain approach to his work.
  • Dionne explains how she learned to shop for clients, using Landy's mindful method.
  • Why Dionne and Landy were able to work together, so successfully.
  • The way that Dionne intends to go forward with her Dad's business and honor his legacy.
  • Landy's mindblowing process of installation, for a project.
  • The importance of being clear about the methods that you use, in your Design process.

 Links:

Website: http://landygardner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landygardnerinteriors/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/LandyGardner]]> 3657 no 256: Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/256-nancy-ganzekaufer-a-powerful-strategy-to-attract-more-clients Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer with us today and if you're a new listener to the show and you're not familiar with her, she has already been on the show twice before, first on episode #15, where she spoke about Niche Markets and then again, on episode #159, where she had a very actionable conversation with LuAnn about getting clear and confident about who you are and what you offer. Today we are going to be talking about your business, in words. This will be the kind of show where you may want to take down some notes, so please have your pen and paper ready. Then, listen in, to find out about a fantastic, non-salesy way of having people really want to work with you. Nancy and LuAnn are eight weeks through their fantastic ten weeks Premiere Online Coaching Program, Money, Mindset, And Sales, with an awesome group of people, who are all working really hard, to get themselves to the next level. So far it's been really interesting and also very rewarding and because this Program has been such an all-round success, they have decided to do it again, so they will be launching their new program, Six Weeks To Success, in January. Listen in to find out more. Nancy has developed a powerful step by step exercise called Your Business in Words. She guides you in crafting the perfect description of your values, your interior design services and your process all with the goal of attracting more of your ideal client to you. If you have ever struggled with networking, promoting yourself or just need a proven way to make a memorable introduction of yourself, Nancy has the answer for you. Show highlights: Nancy takes you, step by step, through what their Six Weeks To Success Program, starting on January the 4th, will include. Go to www.luannnigara.com/6weeks to get the details. Registration is open! Nancy's take on the six clear and actionable steps that LuAnn and her husband do for their business, every year in January, or at any time that they're ready to start something new. Really understanding what it is that you do, in your business. Nancy explains her business, in words. The goal of having your business, in words. An exercise to help you to put your business into words. (You can go to www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw for Nancy's free, twenty-minute webinar, to walk you through this process.) Being who you are, and not who you think people want to hear that you are. Adjectives to help you to get past the obvious traits that most Designers are going to bring to the table. Identifying your ideal client and also, the particular problem that you help them to solve. Using directed sentences, to describe your particular uniqueness, in your line of business. Explaining how people can work with you. Saying what the flow of your process is. Saying what your consultations consist of. How to add the enthusiasm for your last sentence. Becoming attractive by showing your passion. The more information that you give to people, the more relatable points they will have, to really connect with you. When it would be appropriate to use your description of your business in words. Resources: Sign up for Six Weeks to Success - luannnigara.com/6weeks  Grab Nancy’s Freebie - Your Business in Words at www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw Nancy’s website http://nancyganzekaufer.com Nancy on Twitter: nancyganzekaufe Nancy on FB: https://www.facebook.com/NancyGanzekaufer Nancy on Instagram: nancyganzekaufer Nancy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyganzekaufer/ Fri, 10 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer with us today and if you're a new listener to the show and you're not familiar with her, she has already been on the show twice before, first on episode #15, where she spoke about Niche Markets... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer with us today and if you're a new listener to the show and you're not familiar with her, she has already been on the show twice before, first on episode #15, where she spoke about Niche Markets and then again, on episode #159, where she had a very actionable conversation with LuAnn about getting clear and confident about who you are and what you offer. Today we are going to be talking about your business, in words. This will be the kind of show where you may want to take down some notes, so please have your pen and paper ready. Then, listen in, to find out about a fantastic, non-salesy way of having people really want to work with you. Nancy and LuAnn are eight weeks through their fantastic ten weeks Premiere Online Coaching Program, Money, Mindset, And Sales, with an awesome group of people, who are all working really hard, to get themselves to the next level. So far it's been really interesting and also very rewarding and because this Program has been such an all-round success, they have decided to do it again, so they will be launching their new program, Six Weeks To Success, in January. Listen in to find out more. Nancy has developed a powerful step by step exercise called Your Business in Words. She guides you in crafting the perfect description of your values, your interior design services and your process all with the goal of attracting more of your ideal client to you. If you have ever struggled with networking, promoting yourself or just need a proven way to make a memorable introduction of yourself, Nancy has the answer for you. Show highlights: Nancy takes you, step by step, through what their Six Weeks To Success Program, starting on January the 4th, will include. Go to www.luannnigara.com/6weeks to get the details. Registration is open! Nancy's take on the six clear and actionable steps that LuAnn and her husband do for their business, every year in January, or at any time that they're ready to start something new. Really understanding what it is that you do, in your business. Nancy explains her business, in words. The goal of having your business, in words. An exercise to help you to put your business into words. (You can go to www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw for Nancy's free, twenty-minute webinar, to walk you through this process.) Being who you are, and not who you think people want to hear that you are. Adjectives to help you to get past the obvious traits that most Designers are going to bring to the table. Identifying your ideal client and also, the particular problem that you help them to solve. Using directed sentences, to describe your particular uniqueness, in your line of business. Explaining how people can work with you. Saying what the flow of your process is. Saying what your consultations consist of. How to add the enthusiasm for your last sentence. Becoming attractive by showing your passion. The more information that you give to people, the more relatable points they will have, to really connect with you. When it would be appropriate to use your description of your business in words. Resources: Sign up for Six Weeks to Success - luannnigara.com/6weeks  Grab Nancy’s Freebie - Your Business in Words at www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw Nancy’s website http://nancyganzekaufer.com Nancy on Twitter: nancyganzekaufe Nancy on FB: https://www.facebook.com/NancyGanzekaufer Nancy on Instagram: nancyganzekaufer Nancy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyganzekaufer/ Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nancy Ganzekaufer with us today and if you're a new listener to the show and you're not familiar with her, she has already been on the show twice before, first on episode #15, where she spoke about Niche Markets and then again, on episode #159, where she had a very actionable conversation with LuAnn about getting clear and confident about who you are and what you offer. Today we are going to be talking about your business, in words. This will be the kind of show where you may want to take down some notes, so please have your pen and paper ready. Then, listen in, to find out about a fantastic, non-salesy way of having people really want to work with you.

Nancy and LuAnn are eight weeks through their fantastic ten weeks Premiere Online Coaching Program, Money, Mindset, And Sales, with an awesome group of people, who are all working really hard, to get themselves to the next level. So far it's been really interesting and also very rewarding and because this Program has been such an all-round success, they have decided to do it again, so they will be launching their new program, Six Weeks To Success, in January. Listen in to find out more.

Nancy has developed a powerful step by step exercise called Your Business in Words. She guides you in crafting the perfect description of your values, your interior design services and your process all with the goal of attracting more of your ideal client to you. If you have ever struggled with networking, promoting yourself or just need a proven way to make a memorable introduction of yourself, Nancy has the answer for you.

Show highlights:

  • Nancy takes you, step by step, through what their Six Weeks To Success Program, starting on January the 4th, will include. Go to www.luannnigara.com/6weeks to get the details. Registration is open!
  • Nancy's take on the six clear and actionable steps that LuAnn and her husband do for their business, every year in January, or at any time that they're ready to start something new.
  • Really understanding what it is that you do, in your business.
  • Nancy explains her business, in words.
  • The goal of having your business, in words.
  • An exercise to help you to put your business into words. (You can go to www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw for Nancy's free, twenty-minute webinar, to walk you through this process.)
  • Being who you are, and not who you think people want to hear that you are.
  • Adjectives to help you to get past the obvious traits that most Designers are going to bring to the table.
  • Identifying your ideal client and also, the particular problem that you help them to solve.
  • Using directed sentences, to describe your particular uniqueness, in your line of business.
  • Explaining how people can work with you.
  • Saying what the flow of your process is.
  • Saying what your consultations consist of.
  • How to add the enthusiasm for your last sentence.
  • Becoming attractive by showing your passion.
  • The more information that you give to people, the more relatable points they will have, to really connect with you.
  • When it would be appropriate to use your description of your business in words.

Resources: Sign up for Six Weeks to Success - luannnigara.com/6weeks 

Grab Nancy’s Freebie - Your Business in Words at www.nancyganzekaufer.com/ybiw

Nancy’s website

http://nancyganzekaufer.com

Nancy on Twitter:

nancyganzekaufe

Nancy on FB:

https://www.facebook.com/NancyGanzekaufer

Nancy on Instagram:

nancyganzekaufer

Nancy on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyganzekaufer/

]]> 3588 no 255: Anne Rue: Coaching Helped Identify Her Ideal Client and Her Business Value & Worth http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/255-anne-rue-coaching-helped-identify-her-ideal-client-and-her-business-value-worth Today we have Anne Rue on the show. Anne is the principal of Anne Rue Interiors and she has more than twenty years of experience in the world of Design, having worked with both high end residential and also commercial clients. Today, Anne shares tons of insights, from her vast experience as a business owner, for you to enjoy and appreciate.  Listen in, as she talks about the complete turnaround in her eighteen-year-old business after she hired a Business Coach and also about the reality of doing Reality TV. Anne has been creating inspired living spaces for everyone, from professional athletes, multi-family housing properties, model merchandising, senior housing and even luxury motor coaches and yachts. Anne's work has been featured in Florida Design, Orlando Magazine, Orange Appeal Magazine and she's been a Design Expert on Orlando's WESH News On Sunrise and Good Day Orlando, on Fox News. You may even know Anne as the Season Eight Fan Favorite, on HGTV's Design Star, or possibly as the Designer on the hit show, Hotel Impossible, on the travel channel. Listen in now, to find out more about Anne and her fabulous Design Work. Show highlights: What drove Anne to seek help for her business, after nearly eighteen years. The benefits of working for a really great Designer in your area, regardless of the kind of work you may be required to do. The consequences of moonlighting on super luxury motor coaches and yachts. Utilising the genius of two women and their teams. Where Anne would like to be in her business, in ten years time. Some of the things that Anne learned from her two genius mentors. A book that Anne highly recommends: The Values Factor, by John Demartini. The importance of knowing who you are and where you want to be. The niche market that Anne is currently focusing on. Why Anne is currently cultivating her Builder Relationships. Working out if a project is really worth the time that it will take. The importance of working out your values- both personal values and those relating to your business. Anne's whole experience of getting onto HGTV's Design Star show. (HGTV Star) A view in hindsight of the true reality behind Reality TV. Why Anne is not pursuing a career in TV, even though she does really well with it.  Links: Instagram: Anne Rue interiors Facebook: Anne Rue interiors Pinterest: Anne Rue interiors Wed, 08 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Anne Rue on the show. Anne is the principal of Anne Rue Interiors and she has more than twenty years of experience in the world of Design, having worked with both high end residential and also commercial clients. Today, Anne shares tons... Today we have Anne Rue on the show. Anne is the principal of Anne Rue Interiors and she has more than twenty years of experience in the world of Design, having worked with both high end residential and also commercial clients. Today, Anne shares tons of insights, from her vast experience as a business owner, for you to enjoy and appreciate.  Listen in, as she talks about the complete turnaround in her eighteen-year-old business after she hired a Business Coach and also about the reality of doing Reality TV. Anne has been creating inspired living spaces for everyone, from professional athletes, multi-family housing properties, model merchandising, senior housing and even luxury motor coaches and yachts. Anne's work has been featured in Florida Design, Orlando Magazine, Orange Appeal Magazine and she's been a Design Expert on Orlando's WESH News On Sunrise and Good Day Orlando, on Fox News. You may even know Anne as the Season Eight Fan Favorite, on HGTV's Design Star, or possibly as the Designer on the hit show, Hotel Impossible, on the travel channel. Listen in now, to find out more about Anne and her fabulous Design Work. Show highlights: What drove Anne to seek help for her business, after nearly eighteen years. The benefits of working for a really great Designer in your area, regardless of the kind of work you may be required to do. The consequences of moonlighting on super luxury motor coaches and yachts. Utilising the genius of two women and their teams. Where Anne would like to be in her business, in ten years time. Some of the things that Anne learned from her two genius mentors. A book that Anne highly recommends: The Values Factor, by John Demartini. The importance of knowing who you are and where you want to be. The niche market that Anne is currently focusing on. Why Anne is currently cultivating her Builder Relationships. Working out if a project is really worth the time that it will take. The importance of working out your values- both personal values and those relating to your business. Anne's whole experience of getting onto HGTV's Design Star show. (HGTV Star) A view in hindsight of the true reality behind Reality TV. Why Anne is not pursuing a career in TV, even though she does really well with it.  Links: Instagram: Anne Rue interiors Facebook: Anne Rue interiors Pinterest: Anne Rue interiors Today we have Anne Rue on the show. Anne is the principal of Anne Rue Interiors and she has more than twenty years of experience in the world of Design, having worked with both high end residential and also commercial clients. Today, Anne shares tons of insights, from her vast experience as a business owner, for you to enjoy and appreciate.  Listen in, as she talks about the complete turnaround in her eighteen-year-old business after she hired a Business Coach and also about the reality of doing Reality TV.

Anne has been creating inspired living spaces for everyone, from professional athletes, multi-family housing properties, model merchandising, senior housing and even luxury motor coaches and yachts. Anne's work has been featured in Florida Design, Orlando Magazine, Orange Appeal Magazine and she's been a Design Expert on Orlando's WESH News On Sunrise and Good Day Orlando, on Fox News. You may even know Anne as the Season Eight Fan Favorite, on HGTV's Design Star, or possibly as the Designer on the hit show, Hotel Impossible, on the travel channel. Listen in now, to find out more about Anne and her fabulous Design Work.

Show highlights:

  • What drove Anne to seek help for her business, after nearly eighteen years.
  • The benefits of working for a really great Designer in your area, regardless of the kind of work you may be required to do.
  • The consequences of moonlighting on super luxury motor coaches and yachts.
  • Utilising the genius of two women and their teams.
  • Where Anne would like to be in her business, in ten years time.
  • Some of the things that Anne learned from her two genius mentors.
  • A book that Anne highly recommends: The Values Factor, by John Demartini.
  • The importance of knowing who you are and where you want to be.
  • The niche market that Anne is currently focusing on.
  • Why Anne is currently cultivating her Builder Relationships.
  • Working out if a project is really worth the time that it will take.
  • The importance of working out your values- both personal values and those relating to your business.
  • Anne's whole experience of getting onto HGTV's Design Star show. (HGTV Star)
  • A view in hindsight of the true reality behind Reality TV.
  • Why Anne is not pursuing a career in TV, even though she does really well with it.

 Links:

Instagram: Anne Rue interiors Facebook: Anne Rue interiors Pinterest: Anne Rue interiors]]> 4453 no 254: Design Biz Live: How to Price Your Interior Design Services http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/254-design-biz-live-how-to-price-your-interior-design-services Welcome to part two of Design Biz Live 3, with Corey Klassen.  The last episode of Design Biz Live (#246) was the interview with Judith Neary, about the Self Assessment Evaluation, (which you can still find at www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2) that Judith and Corey put together for themselves and also for you, so that you can learn to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of yourself, as an Interior Designer and also of your staff. They created this because just like many of you, they battled to structure their fees. Because Judith and Corey really are pretty brilliant, they worked out a way to figure out what you're really good at, what you're not so good at, what you don't like doing, what you're not going to do... the whole thing! In the last episode, LuAnn talked with Judith, who runs a One Man Show, in Vashon Island, off the coast of Seattle, about how she used this evaluation to enable her to work in her particular zone of genius and to structure her projects and fees to best coincide with the things that she does really well and that she really likes to do. Please go back and listen, if you missed that episode. Today, we have Corey Klassen with us on the show. Corey has his Interior Design firm in Vancouver, Canada and he has a staff, so when he took the evaluation, it was not only for himself, it was for his staff too. Today, Corey will share the results that he learned from his evaluation and also the way that he utilized the information from these results, about himself and also about each of the people on his staff. Then, using that information, he moves into the best way to structure the fees for his Design firm, in order to best serve his clients and also the firm, itself. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: One of the key things that Corey recognized from his evaluation. The way that Corey has utilized all the information that he got from the Assessment, without deviation. All the work that Corey does, whether it's for a kitchen, bathroom, or anything else, it all follows exactly the same process. Looking deeper into the data, to figure out where the biggest strengths and weaknesses of himself and his staff were and to align his fees accordingly. Core shares some graphs, demonstrating the conceptual phase of his and his staff's assessment. What the graph demonstrating the execution phase of Corey's Assessment says to him. The importance of documents being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information and all complete, together. A process to ensure that the documents are being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information all complete and together, with MyDoma Studio. Flipping over to using Quickbooks to easily manage accounting systems, to save time. Some key solutions to invite the vendor into the project. Managing punch lists. Using tracking sheets for orders, to really work well as a team. A formulated process that Corey used, to help him to determine the appropriate fees to charge. Addressing, and then utilizing failures to their best advantage. The three phases of the evaluation are also the same three phases of a project. Corey's formula for structuring flat fees. Why Corey charges for each phase, before moving on to the next. The difference between General Contractors and Designers. The importance of really good communication. When product sales come into the picture. The importance of having a Termination Clause in your agreement with a client. Making use of a Design Retainer, which remains retained until the final invoice is done. (Then the balance is refunded.) If you have any questions, either for this section or for the section that Judith covered, please email them to LuAnn, to be answered on the next episode of Design Biz Live. (info@windowworksnj.com and please put Design Biz Live Question in the subject line.) Mon, 06 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to part two of Design Biz Live 3, with Corey Klassen.  The last episode of Design Biz Live (#246) was the interview with Judith Neary, about the Self Assessment Evaluation, (which you can still find at ) that Judith and Corey put together... Welcome to part two of Design Biz Live 3, with Corey Klassen.  The last episode of Design Biz Live (#246) was the interview with Judith Neary, about the Self Assessment Evaluation, (which you can still find at www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2) that Judith and Corey put together for themselves and also for you, so that you can learn to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of yourself, as an Interior Designer and also of your staff. They created this because just like many of you, they battled to structure their fees. Because Judith and Corey really are pretty brilliant, they worked out a way to figure out what you're really good at, what you're not so good at, what you don't like doing, what you're not going to do... the whole thing! In the last episode, LuAnn talked with Judith, who runs a One Man Show, in Vashon Island, off the coast of Seattle, about how she used this evaluation to enable her to work in her particular zone of genius and to structure her projects and fees to best coincide with the things that she does really well and that she really likes to do. Please go back and listen, if you missed that episode. Today, we have Corey Klassen with us on the show. Corey has his Interior Design firm in Vancouver, Canada and he has a staff, so when he took the evaluation, it was not only for himself, it was for his staff too. Today, Corey will share the results that he learned from his evaluation and also the way that he utilized the information from these results, about himself and also about each of the people on his staff. Then, using that information, he moves into the best way to structure the fees for his Design firm, in order to best serve his clients and also the firm, itself. Listen in to find out more. Show highlights: One of the key things that Corey recognized from his evaluation. The way that Corey has utilized all the information that he got from the Assessment, without deviation. All the work that Corey does, whether it's for a kitchen, bathroom, or anything else, it all follows exactly the same process. Looking deeper into the data, to figure out where the biggest strengths and weaknesses of himself and his staff were and to align his fees accordingly. Core shares some graphs, demonstrating the conceptual phase of his and his staff's assessment. What the graph demonstrating the execution phase of Corey's Assessment says to him. The importance of documents being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information and all complete, together. A process to ensure that the documents are being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information all complete and together, with MyDoma Studio. Flipping over to using Quickbooks to easily manage accounting systems, to save time. Some key solutions to invite the vendor into the project. Managing punch lists. Using tracking sheets for orders, to really work well as a team. A formulated process that Corey used, to help him to determine the appropriate fees to charge. Addressing, and then utilizing failures to their best advantage. The three phases of the evaluation are also the same three phases of a project. Corey's formula for structuring flat fees. Why Corey charges for each phase, before moving on to the next. The difference between General Contractors and Designers. The importance of really good communication. When product sales come into the picture. The importance of having a Termination Clause in your agreement with a client. Making use of a Design Retainer, which remains retained until the final invoice is done. (Then the balance is refunded.) If you have any questions, either for this section or for the section that Judith covered, please email them to LuAnn, to be answered on the next episode of Design Biz Live. (info@windowworksnj.com and please put Design Biz Live Question in the subject line.) Welcome to part two of Design Biz Live 3, with Corey Klassen.  The last episode of Design Biz Live (#246) was the interview with Judith Neary, about the Self Assessment Evaluation, (which you can still find at www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2) that Judith and Corey put together for themselves and also for you, so that you can learn to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of yourself, as an Interior Designer and also of your staff. They created this because just like many of you, they battled to structure their fees. Because Judith and Corey really are pretty brilliant, they worked out a way to figure out what you're really good at, what you're not so good at, what you don't like doing, what you're not going to do... the whole thing! In the last episode, LuAnn talked with Judith, who runs a One Man Show, in Vashon Island, off the coast of Seattle, about how she used this evaluation to enable her to work in her particular zone of genius and to structure her projects and fees to best coincide with the things that she does really well and that she really likes to do. Please go back and listen, if you missed that episode.

Today, we have Corey Klassen with us on the show. Corey has his Interior Design firm in Vancouver, Canada and he has a staff, so when he took the evaluation, it was not only for himself, it was for his staff too. Today, Corey will share the results that he learned from his evaluation and also the way that he utilized the information from these results, about himself and also about each of the people on his staff. Then, using that information, he moves into the best way to structure the fees for his Design firm, in order to best serve his clients and also the firm, itself. Listen in to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • One of the key things that Corey recognized from his evaluation.
  • The way that Corey has utilized all the information that he got from the Assessment, without deviation.
  • All the work that Corey does, whether it's for a kitchen, bathroom, or anything else, it all follows exactly the same process.
  • Looking deeper into the data, to figure out where the biggest strengths and weaknesses of himself and his staff were and to align his fees accordingly.
  • Core shares some graphs, demonstrating the conceptual phase of his and his staff's assessment.
  • What the graph demonstrating the execution phase of Corey's Assessment says to him.
  • The importance of documents being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information and all complete, together.
  • A process to ensure that the documents are being communicated correctly, on time, with the right information all complete and together, with MyDoma Studio.
  • Flipping over to using Quickbooks to easily manage accounting systems, to save time.
  • Some key solutions to invite the vendor into the project.
  • Managing punch lists.
  • Using tracking sheets for orders, to really work well as a team.
  • A formulated process that Corey used, to help him to determine the appropriate fees to charge.
  • Addressing, and then utilizing failures to their best advantage.
  • The three phases of the evaluation are also the same three phases of a project.
  • Corey's formula for structuring flat fees.
  • Why Corey charges for each phase, before moving on to the next.
  • The difference between General Contractors and Designers.
  • The importance of really good communication.
  • When product sales come into the picture.
  • The importance of having a Termination Clause in your agreement with a client.
  • Making use of a Design Retainer, which remains retained until the final invoice is done. (Then the balance is refunded.)
  • If you have any questions, either for this section or for the section that Judith covered, please email them to LuAnn, to be answered on the next episode of Design Biz Live. (info@windowworksnj.com and please put Design Biz Live Question in the subject line.)
]]> 4672 no 253: Katie Krimitsos - Discussing the Common Struggles of Entrepreneurship http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/253-katie-krimitsos-discussing-the-common-struggles-of-entrepreneurship Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is thrilled beyond belief to introduce you to today's guest, Katie Krimitsos! Katie is the founder of the Facebook Community Biz Women Rock, and she uses this platform to educate and bring women entrepreneurs together, from all around the world. When you listen to Katie on her show, she is so real, so empathetic and so willing to share what she's learned and she's really on the ball with her on-air Coaching too, so listen in today, to find out more about Katie and the way that she manages to do so many different things really, really well! Katie, who has a Masters Degree in Communication, has a great depth of experience in helping and teaching her fellow women entrepreneurs how to get their businesses on track. Within the platform of Biz Women Rock that Katie has created, she has the Biz Women Rock Podcast, she teaches a course on how to create a rocking Facebook Community, she has the Mompreneur Series, she has a blog, she has her Money Moxy Series and she also has the Biz Women Rock Academy, where you get education, support, mindset and strategy training, community challenges, hot seats, goal setting and so much more! Listen in now, to find out what Katie has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: A huge and really common pain point around mindset, that most women entrepreneurs tend to experience. How Katie helps entrepreneurs with their mindset. The way that women's roles and responsibilities are really so deeply entwined with how they show up for business. How Katie helps women by reflecting their light back to them. How your own personal development impacts everything about your business. The journey of entrepreneurship never really ends (just like being a parent)- you will constantly be challenged to do things better. Some of the things that make the entrepreneurial journey a bit easier, down the line. How Katie helps people whose backs are against the wall, to get their businesses back on track. What Katie did to help her husband get his business back on track. The steps that Katie took to create a major transition in her business, in order to really make it work. Why you really need to be super clear about what you're doing in your business. Katie explains all about the Biz Women Rock Retreat that she's planning, between the 1st and the 3rd of December. Links: Katie's website: www.bizwomenrock.com Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-women-rock-with-katie-krimitsos/id818183720?mt=2 Twitter: @katiekrimitsos Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekrimitsos/ Join Our Exclusive Facebook Group for FREE! Full of over 4,800 of your fellow business women! Fri, 03 Nov 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is thrilled beyond belief to introduce you to today's guest, Katie Krimitsos! Katie is the founder of the Facebook Community Biz Women Rock, and she uses this platform to educate and bring women... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is thrilled beyond belief to introduce you to today's guest, Katie Krimitsos! Katie is the founder of the Facebook Community Biz Women Rock, and she uses this platform to educate and bring women entrepreneurs together, from all around the world. When you listen to Katie on her show, she is so real, so empathetic and so willing to share what she's learned and she's really on the ball with her on-air Coaching too, so listen in today, to find out more about Katie and the way that she manages to do so many different things really, really well! Katie, who has a Masters Degree in Communication, has a great depth of experience in helping and teaching her fellow women entrepreneurs how to get their businesses on track. Within the platform of Biz Women Rock that Katie has created, she has the Biz Women Rock Podcast, she teaches a course on how to create a rocking Facebook Community, she has the Mompreneur Series, she has a blog, she has her Money Moxy Series and she also has the Biz Women Rock Academy, where you get education, support, mindset and strategy training, community challenges, hot seats, goal setting and so much more! Listen in now, to find out what Katie has to share with you on the show today. Show highlights: A huge and really common pain point around mindset, that most women entrepreneurs tend to experience. How Katie helps entrepreneurs with their mindset. The way that women's roles and responsibilities are really so deeply entwined with how they show up for business. How Katie helps women by reflecting their light back to them. How your own personal development impacts everything about your business. The journey of entrepreneurship never really ends (just like being a parent)- you will constantly be challenged to do things better. Some of the things that make the entrepreneurial journey a bit easier, down the line. How Katie helps people whose backs are against the wall, to get their businesses back on track. What Katie did to help her husband get his business back on track. The steps that Katie took to create a major transition in her business, in order to really make it work. Why you really need to be super clear about what you're doing in your business. Katie explains all about the Biz Women Rock Retreat that she's planning, between the 1st and the 3rd of December. Links: Katie's website: www.bizwomenrock.com Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-women-rock-with-katie-krimitsos/id818183720?mt=2 Twitter: @katiekrimitsos Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekrimitsos/ Join Our Exclusive Facebook Group for FREE! Full of over 4,800 of your fellow business women! Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is thrilled beyond belief to introduce you to today's guest, Katie Krimitsos! Katie is the founder of the Facebook Community Biz Women Rock, and she uses this platform to educate and bring women entrepreneurs together, from all around the world. When you listen to Katie on her show, she is so real, so empathetic and so willing to share what she's learned and she's really on the ball with her on-air Coaching too, so listen in today, to find out more about Katie and the way that she manages to do so many different things really, really well!

Katie, who has a Masters Degree in Communication, has a great depth of experience in helping and teaching her fellow women entrepreneurs how to get their businesses on track. Within the platform of Biz Women Rock that Katie has created, she has the Biz Women Rock Podcast, she teaches a course on how to create a rocking Facebook Community, she has the Mompreneur Series, she has a blog, she has her Money Moxy Series and she also has the Biz Women Rock Academy, where you get education, support, mindset and strategy training, community challenges, hot seats, goal setting and so much more! Listen in now, to find out what Katie has to share with you on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • A huge and really common pain point around mindset, that most women entrepreneurs tend to experience.
  • How Katie helps entrepreneurs with their mindset.
  • The way that women's roles and responsibilities are really so deeply entwined with how they show up for business.
  • How Katie helps women by reflecting their light back to them.
  • How your own personal development impacts everything about your business.
  • The journey of entrepreneurship never really ends (just like being a parent)- you will constantly be challenged to do things better.
  • Some of the things that make the entrepreneurial journey a bit easier, down the line.
  • How Katie helps people whose backs are against the wall, to get their businesses back on track.
  • What Katie did to help her husband get his business back on track.
  • The steps that Katie took to create a major transition in her business, in order to really make it work.
  • Why you really need to be super clear about what you're doing in your business.
  • Katie explains all about the Biz Women Rock Retreat that she's planning, between the 1st and the 3rd of December.

Links:

Katie's website: www.bizwomenrock.com

Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-women-rock-with-katie-krimitsos/id818183720?mt=2 Twitter: @katiekrimitsos Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekrimitsos/ Join Our Exclusive Facebook Group for FREE! Full of over 4,800 of your fellow business women!]]> 2615 no 252: Michelle Woeller - Re-Building Your Design Firm in a New Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/252-michelle-woeller-re-building-your-design-firm-in-a-new-community Welcome to today's show! We have Michelle Woeller as our guest and today she will be talking to us about how to build a new client base, after relocating to a new area. Michelle and her family relocated to Cape Cod about a year ago and today she discusses what she had to do in her new community, and the strategies she employed, to get her Interior Design firm off the ground there.  Listen in now, to get some awesome tips from Michelle. Michelle graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Fashion Buying and Merchandising and she also studied Interior Design at the same university. After a career in Retail Settings and Product Design, she took some time off, to focus her attention on raising her children. Then, in 2006, she became the lead Designer for her husband's Landscaping Company, where she and her husband collaborated in the designing of outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial properties. In 2013, Michelle launched Summerland Homes And Gardens, a Design Studio dedicated to beautiful design, for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Then, in the summer of 2016, Michelle and her family decided to move to Cape Cod, so now Michelle works with Cape Cod home owners, to transform their homes and capture the wonder of seaside living.  Listen in to find out how Michelle built up her client base, in this new location. Show highlights: What it was like for Michelle, to find her feet in a new area. How Michelle did her marketing, found new vendors and formed a network, in her new area. The challenge of finding new clients in an area where most people only live for part of the year. How much Michelle's business increased over a four year period, due to paid marketing. The whole real life process that Michelle went through and how it felt for her, to identify and reach out to the Architects and Builders in her new area. The importance of not taking things personally. The value of reaching out to some people who are not directly involved in your industry. Weathering the off-season in Cape Cod. Michelle and her husband's experience of attending a three day Ten X Growth Conference Event in Miami. Some of the things that Michelle learned at the Ten X Growth Conference. Michelle's practice of starting each day with positivity, to put everything into the right perspective. The way that Michelle and her husband collaborate with their businesses. What the operational side of Michelle's business looks like. Michelle's dilemma of which direction to take her business and whether or not to expand it. How Brittanie Elms has really helped Michelle. (Go back and listen to episode #149 to find out more about Brittanie.) Michelle shares about what it was like for her, working with her husband. Links: http://summerlandhomesandgardens.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Summerland-Homes-Gardens-660101854019470/ https://www.instagram.com/ellesummerland/ Go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast, to get 10% off your entire first purchase! Wed, 01 Nov 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show! We have Michelle Woeller as our guest and today she will be talking to us about how to build a new client base, after relocating to a new area. Michelle and her family relocated to Cape Cod about a year ago and today she... Welcome to today's show! We have Michelle Woeller as our guest and today she will be talking to us about how to build a new client base, after relocating to a new area. Michelle and her family relocated to Cape Cod about a year ago and today she discusses what she had to do in her new community, and the strategies she employed, to get her Interior Design firm off the ground there.  Listen in now, to get some awesome tips from Michelle. Michelle graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Fashion Buying and Merchandising and she also studied Interior Design at the same university. After a career in Retail Settings and Product Design, she took some time off, to focus her attention on raising her children. Then, in 2006, she became the lead Designer for her husband's Landscaping Company, where she and her husband collaborated in the designing of outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial properties. In 2013, Michelle launched Summerland Homes And Gardens, a Design Studio dedicated to beautiful design, for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Then, in the summer of 2016, Michelle and her family decided to move to Cape Cod, so now Michelle works with Cape Cod home owners, to transform their homes and capture the wonder of seaside living.  Listen in to find out how Michelle built up her client base, in this new location. Show highlights: What it was like for Michelle, to find her feet in a new area. How Michelle did her marketing, found new vendors and formed a network, in her new area. The challenge of finding new clients in an area where most people only live for part of the year. How much Michelle's business increased over a four year period, due to paid marketing. The whole real life process that Michelle went through and how it felt for her, to identify and reach out to the Architects and Builders in her new area. The importance of not taking things personally. The value of reaching out to some people who are not directly involved in your industry. Weathering the off-season in Cape Cod. Michelle and her husband's experience of attending a three day Ten X Growth Conference Event in Miami. Some of the things that Michelle learned at the Ten X Growth Conference. Michelle's practice of starting each day with positivity, to put everything into the right perspective. The way that Michelle and her husband collaborate with their businesses. What the operational side of Michelle's business looks like. Michelle's dilemma of which direction to take her business and whether or not to expand it. How Brittanie Elms has really helped Michelle. (Go back and listen to episode #149 to find out more about Brittanie.) Michelle shares about what it was like for her, working with her husband. Links: http://summerlandhomesandgardens.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Summerland-Homes-Gardens-660101854019470/ https://www.instagram.com/ellesummerland/ Go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast, to get 10% off your entire first purchase! Welcome to today's show! We have Michelle Woeller as our guest and today she will be talking to us about how to build a new client base, after relocating to a new area. Michelle and her family relocated to Cape Cod about a year ago and today she discusses what she had to do in her new community, and the strategies she employed, to get her Interior Design firm off the ground there.  Listen in now, to get some awesome tips from Michelle.

Michelle graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Fashion Buying and Merchandising and she also studied Interior Design at the same university. After a career in Retail Settings and Product Design, she took some time off, to focus her attention on raising her children. Then, in 2006, she became the lead Designer for her husband's Landscaping Company, where she and her husband collaborated in the designing of outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial properties. In 2013, Michelle launched Summerland Homes And Gardens, a Design Studio dedicated to beautiful design, for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Then, in the summer of 2016, Michelle and her family decided to move to Cape Cod, so now Michelle works with Cape Cod home owners, to transform their homes and capture the wonder of seaside living.  Listen in to find out how Michelle built up her client base, in this new location.

Show highlights:

  • What it was like for Michelle, to find her feet in a new area.
  • How Michelle did her marketing, found new vendors and formed a network, in her new area.
  • The challenge of finding new clients in an area where most people only live for part of the year.
  • How much Michelle's business increased over a four year period, due to paid marketing.
  • The whole real life process that Michelle went through and how it felt for her, to identify and reach out to the Architects and Builders in her new area.
  • The importance of not taking things personally.
  • The value of reaching out to some people who are not directly involved in your industry.
  • Weathering the off-season in Cape Cod.
  • Michelle and her husband's experience of attending a three day Ten X Growth Conference Event in Miami.
  • Some of the things that Michelle learned at the Ten X Growth Conference.
  • Michelle's practice of starting each day with positivity, to put everything into the right perspective.
  • The way that Michelle and her husband collaborate with their businesses.
  • What the operational side of Michelle's business looks like.
  • Michelle's dilemma of which direction to take her business and whether or not to expand it.
  • How Brittanie Elms has really helped Michelle. (Go back and listen to episode #149 to find out more about Brittanie.)
  • Michelle shares about what it was like for her, working with her husband.

Links:

http://summerlandhomesandgardens.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Summerland-Homes-Gardens-660101854019470/ https://www.instagram.com/ellesummerland/

Go to www.curatedkravet.com and use the code CK Podcast, to get 10% off your entire first purchase!

]]> 4289 no 251: Adam Scougall : Managing a Successful Design Firm & a Full Time Job http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/251-adam-scougall-managing-a-successful-design-firm-a-full-time-job Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Adam Scougall on the show. He's someone who has become quite famous to all of us through the Facebook groups that we're in, where he's become our good friend and also someone that we really value! Today, Adam and LuAnn have decided to zero in on some really interesting topics, including photography and leaving your day job to become a full-time Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out what Adam has to share with you. Adam, who is an artist as well as an Interior Designer, opened his Interiors Consulting Business in New South Wales, Australia, in 2010 and ever since then, he has been creating and studying Residential Interiors for his clients, across New South Wales. His work has been featured in many national and international publications, including Home Beautiful, Real Living, Grand Designs Australia and Singapore's Metropolitan Home Magazine. What really hooked LuAnn about Adam is that he also has a full-time corporate job, which he has no intention of leaving in the foreseeable future. LuAnn really found this is very interesting, especially when they discussed the pros and cons of having a full-time job while running a Design Business on the side. So, listen in- you may find this really interesting if you are possibly in a similar position to Adam, working full time, while building your Interior Design Business. Show highlights: The really amazing support and information that you can access, by joining Facebook Groups. What Adam is focusing on at the moment. Adam explains how he goes about saying 'no' to projects that aren't a good fit for him. How Adam manages his time. How Adam selects his ideal clients. The criteria that make something really photo-worthy for Adam. How Adam manages to get everything done for his Design projects while working full time. Scope Creep- what it means and how Adam manages to deal with it. How Adam structures his fees, to make an allowance for the amount that he has to pay his professional photographer. Adam, who does all his own styling currently, explains why his photography is so effective. Why Adam would consider hiring a stylist in the future. Adam explains his philosophy of telling a story, through his photo shoots. If you're looking to learn more about styling your own photo shoots, you can go back and listen to episode #108. Links: Adam's website: www.adamscougall.com.au website and social: https://twitter.com/AdamScougall https://www.facebook.com/adam.scougall https://www.instagram.com/adam_scougall/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-scougall-403785139/ Mon, 30 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Adam Scougall on the show. He's someone who has become quite famous to all of us through the Facebook groups that we're in, where he's become our good friend and also someone that... Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Adam Scougall on the show. He's someone who has become quite famous to all of us through the Facebook groups that we're in, where he's become our good friend and also someone that we really value! Today, Adam and LuAnn have decided to zero in on some really interesting topics, including photography and leaving your day job to become a full-time Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out what Adam has to share with you. Adam, who is an artist as well as an Interior Designer, opened his Interiors Consulting Business in New South Wales, Australia, in 2010 and ever since then, he has been creating and studying Residential Interiors for his clients, across New South Wales. His work has been featured in many national and international publications, including Home Beautiful, Real Living, Grand Designs Australia and Singapore's Metropolitan Home Magazine. What really hooked LuAnn about Adam is that he also has a full-time corporate job, which he has no intention of leaving in the foreseeable future. LuAnn really found this is very interesting, especially when they discussed the pros and cons of having a full-time job while running a Design Business on the side. So, listen in- you may find this really interesting if you are possibly in a similar position to Adam, working full time, while building your Interior Design Business. Show highlights: The really amazing support and information that you can access, by joining Facebook Groups. What Adam is focusing on at the moment. Adam explains how he goes about saying 'no' to projects that aren't a good fit for him. How Adam manages his time. How Adam selects his ideal clients. The criteria that make something really photo-worthy for Adam. How Adam manages to get everything done for his Design projects while working full time. Scope Creep- what it means and how Adam manages to deal with it. How Adam structures his fees, to make an allowance for the amount that he has to pay his professional photographer. Adam, who does all his own styling currently, explains why his photography is so effective. Why Adam would consider hiring a stylist in the future. Adam explains his philosophy of telling a story, through his photo shoots. If you're looking to learn more about styling your own photo shoots, you can go back and listen to episode #108. Links: Adam's website: www.adamscougall.com.au website and social: https://twitter.com/AdamScougall https://www.facebook.com/adam.scougall https://www.instagram.com/adam_scougall/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-scougall-403785139/ Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Adam Scougall on the show. He's someone who has become quite famous to all of us through the Facebook groups that we're in, where he's become our good friend and also someone that we really value! Today, Adam and LuAnn have decided to zero in on some really interesting topics, including photography and leaving your day job to become a full-time Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out what Adam has to share with you.

Adam, who is an artist as well as an Interior Designer, opened his Interiors Consulting Business in New South Wales, Australia, in 2010 and ever since then, he has been creating and studying Residential Interiors for his clients, across New South Wales. His work has been featured in many national and international publications, including Home Beautiful, Real Living, Grand Designs Australia and Singapore's Metropolitan Home Magazine. What really hooked LuAnn about Adam is that he also has a full-time corporate job, which he has no intention of leaving in the foreseeable future. LuAnn really found this is very interesting, especially when they discussed the pros and cons of having a full-time job while running a Design Business on the side. So, listen in- you may find this really interesting if you are possibly in a similar position to Adam, working full time, while building your Interior Design Business.

Show highlights:

  • The really amazing support and information that you can access, by joining Facebook Groups.
  • What Adam is focusing on at the moment.
  • Adam explains how he goes about saying 'no' to projects that aren't a good fit for him.
  • How Adam manages his time.
  • How Adam selects his ideal clients.
  • The criteria that make something really photo-worthy for Adam.
  • How Adam manages to get everything done for his Design projects while working full time.
  • Scope Creep- what it means and how Adam manages to deal with it.
  • How Adam structures his fees, to make an allowance for the amount that he has to pay his professional photographer.
  • Adam, who does all his own styling currently, explains why his photography is so effective.
  • Why Adam would consider hiring a stylist in the future.
  • Adam explains his philosophy of telling a story, through his photo shoots.
  • If you're looking to learn more about styling your own photo shoots, you can go back and listen to episode #108.

Links:

Adam's website: www.adamscougall.com.au

website and social: https://twitter.com/AdamScougall https://www.facebook.com/adam.scougall https://www.instagram.com/adam_scougall/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-scougall-403785139/ ]]> 3862 no 250: Facebook Coaching Sessions: FB Live w/ Jessica Brace http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/250-face-book-coaching-sessions-fblive-w-jessica-brace We have Jessica Brace with us as our guest on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is very appreciative and happy to have her on the show, because she's  really well sought after in podcasting circles, due to her expertise in Internet and Video Marketing. LuAnn has also enjoyed several other podcast episodes, where Jessica was the featured guest, talking about Facebook Live. So listen in, as Jessica shares some of her expertise about Facebook Live with you, today. We're doing a whole series about Facebook Live on the show and statistics have been mentioned by more than a few of the guests recently, that by around 2020, approximately eighty percent of all social media will be done by video.  We also know from others in the Design Industry, about how important Facebook Live, Instagram, and Snapchat have become.  LuAnn finds Facebook Live to be a particular conundrum though, because, on the one hand, she sees it as a great platform for our really visual  Industry, however, on the other hand, Designers do tend to struggle a bit with the mechanics of how to do it and sometimes even with the content.  So listen in, as Jessica sheds some light on how to get going with Facebook Live and how to keep going, from there. Show highlights: Jessica starts off by explaining what Facebook Live really is and also, why you should consider doing it. The two types of video that Jessica uses for Facebook Live. When you would use either pop-ups or pre-planned video content on your Facebook Live. The difference between the videos on Youtube and those on Facebook Live. Why consistency is key, with Facebook Live. A strategy that works really well, with Facebook comments. The best way to get people to share your Facebook content. How to go about doing your Facebook Live and what you'll need, in order to do it. Writing a compelling headline, which is key to getting people to watch your FB Live. Introducing yourself, on your video. How FB Live videos are automatically embedded on other social media platforms, to reach a really huge audience. Why it's okay for your videos to be casual and relaxed. What to share, on your FB Live video. The fun things that you can do with your Facebook Video Library. Uploading captions on your video. There is an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for getting everything done on FB Live. How the transcripts for FB Live work. Why perfection is really the lowest standard! The fun things you can do to educate your audience, with Facebook Live. Jessica's Genius Extraction on Facebook Live. Building momentum, in order to become established on FB Live. The programs and freebies that Jessica has to offer, on her website. Go to facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts for Jessica's group She Broadcasts. Links: Give away for listeners: Free FB Live Cheat Sheet: http://purplemermaidstudios.com her email: jessicabracevideo@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-brace-56858b13b/ Her FaceBook Group: She Broadcasts https://www.facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts/?ref=br_rs Fri, 27 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Jessica Brace with us as our guest on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is very appreciative and happy to have her on the show, because she's  really well sought after in podcasting circles, due to her expertise in Internet and Video... We have Jessica Brace with us as our guest on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is very appreciative and happy to have her on the show, because she's  really well sought after in podcasting circles, due to her expertise in Internet and Video Marketing. LuAnn has also enjoyed several other podcast episodes, where Jessica was the featured guest, talking about Facebook Live. So listen in, as Jessica shares some of her expertise about Facebook Live with you, today. We're doing a whole series about Facebook Live on the show and statistics have been mentioned by more than a few of the guests recently, that by around 2020, approximately eighty percent of all social media will be done by video.  We also know from others in the Design Industry, about how important Facebook Live, Instagram, and Snapchat have become.  LuAnn finds Facebook Live to be a particular conundrum though, because, on the one hand, she sees it as a great platform for our really visual  Industry, however, on the other hand, Designers do tend to struggle a bit with the mechanics of how to do it and sometimes even with the content.  So listen in, as Jessica sheds some light on how to get going with Facebook Live and how to keep going, from there. Show highlights: Jessica starts off by explaining what Facebook Live really is and also, why you should consider doing it. The two types of video that Jessica uses for Facebook Live. When you would use either pop-ups or pre-planned video content on your Facebook Live. The difference between the videos on Youtube and those on Facebook Live. Why consistency is key, with Facebook Live. A strategy that works really well, with Facebook comments. The best way to get people to share your Facebook content. How to go about doing your Facebook Live and what you'll need, in order to do it. Writing a compelling headline, which is key to getting people to watch your FB Live. Introducing yourself, on your video. How FB Live videos are automatically embedded on other social media platforms, to reach a really huge audience. Why it's okay for your videos to be casual and relaxed. What to share, on your FB Live video. The fun things that you can do with your Facebook Video Library. Uploading captions on your video. There is an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for getting everything done on FB Live. How the transcripts for FB Live work. Why perfection is really the lowest standard! The fun things you can do to educate your audience, with Facebook Live. Jessica's Genius Extraction on Facebook Live. Building momentum, in order to become established on FB Live. The programs and freebies that Jessica has to offer, on her website. Go to facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts for Jessica's group She Broadcasts. Links: Give away for listeners: Free FB Live Cheat Sheet: http://purplemermaidstudios.com her email: jessicabracevideo@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-brace-56858b13b/ Her FaceBook Group: She Broadcasts https://www.facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts/?ref=br_rs We have Jessica Brace with us as our guest on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is very appreciative and happy to have her on the show, because she's  really well sought after in podcasting circles, due to her expertise in Internet and Video Marketing. LuAnn has also enjoyed several other podcast episodes, where Jessica was the featured guest, talking about Facebook Live. So listen in, as Jessica shares some of her expertise about Facebook Live with you, today.

We're doing a whole series about Facebook Live on the show and statistics have been mentioned by more than a few of the guests recently, that by around 2020, approximately eighty percent of all social media will be done by video.  We also know from others in the Design Industry, about how important Facebook Live, Instagram, and Snapchat have become.  LuAnn finds Facebook Live to be a particular conundrum though, because, on the one hand, she sees it as a great platform for our really visual  Industry, however, on the other hand, Designers do tend to struggle a bit with the mechanics of how to do it and sometimes even with the content.  So listen in, as Jessica sheds some light on how to get going with Facebook Live and how to keep going, from there.

Show highlights:

  • Jessica starts off by explaining what Facebook Live really is and also, why you should consider doing it.
  • The two types of video that Jessica uses for Facebook Live.
  • When you would use either pop-ups or pre-planned video content on your Facebook Live.
  • The difference between the videos on Youtube and those on Facebook Live.
  • Why consistency is key, with Facebook Live.
  • A strategy that works really well, with Facebook comments.
  • The best way to get people to share your Facebook content.
  • How to go about doing your Facebook Live and what you'll need, in order to do it.
  • Writing a compelling headline, which is key to getting people to watch your FB Live.
  • Introducing yourself, on your video.
  • How FB Live videos are automatically embedded on other social media platforms, to reach a really huge audience.
  • Why it's okay for your videos to be casual and relaxed.
  • What to share, on your FB Live video.
  • The fun things that you can do with your Facebook Video Library.
  • Uploading captions on your video.
  • There is an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for getting everything done on FB Live.
  • How the transcripts for FB Live work.
  • Why perfection is really the lowest standard!
  • The fun things you can do to educate your audience, with Facebook Live.
  • Jessica's Genius Extraction on Facebook Live.
  • Building momentum, in order to become established on FB Live.
  • The programs and freebies that Jessica has to offer, on her website.
  • Go to facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts for Jessica's group She Broadcasts.

Links:

Give away for listeners: Free FB Live Cheat Sheet: http://purplemermaidstudios.com her email: jessicabracevideo@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-brace-56858b13b/ Her FaceBook Group: She Broadcasts https://www.facebook.com/groups/shebroadcasts/?ref=br_rs ]]> 3300 no 249: Kendra Bester - Advice and Reflections, in Business Under 5 Years. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/249-kendra-bester-advice-and-reflections-in-business-under-5-years Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Kendra Bester with us on the show. She's an Interior Decorator who runs her own firm in the Toronto area and today she talks to LuAnn about some of the challenges that she's faced and the things that she's learned in her first three years in business. She also discusses the importance of setting up great systems in your business and ensuring that you really have your finances in good order.  Listen in to find out more about Kendra and the way she runs her firm. Kendra received her degree in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph. She then switched career tracks and enrolled at Humber College, in their Interior Decorating Program.  She graduated there with first-class honors and she's now a Certified Interior Decorator. Listen in today, to find out more about Kendra's take on the business side of Design. Show highlights: Some tips for new Designers about the right kind of questions to ask during the initial consultation with a client. How to find the personal style for each client. Developing a set of questions, to help your client figure out what they're actually looking for. Using Pinterest to help you discover patterns that your client could be gravitating towards. The second consultation is really important- this is usually the make or breaks one. Looking for clues to better inform you about your clients. Dealing with situations where you feel you're not the right fit for the project. Gearing your portfolio towards the kinds of projects you'd really like to be doing in the future. Pictures are really powerful! Take loads of them! What it really takes to be the Boss Lady. The importance of being in the know about the financial aspect of your business. How Kendra handles the interview and hiring process. Links: A Link to Kendra's bio here: About Kendra   Her Website: Kendra Bester Design   Her Instagram: @kendrabesterdesign   Find Kendra on Facebook: Kendra Bester Design   Pinterest: Kendra Bester   Wed, 25 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Kendra Bester with us on the show. She's an Interior Decorator who runs her own firm in the Toronto area and today she talks to LuAnn about some of the challenges that she's faced... Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Kendra Bester with us on the show. She's an Interior Decorator who runs her own firm in the Toronto area and today she talks to LuAnn about some of the challenges that she's faced and the things that she's learned in her first three years in business. She also discusses the importance of setting up great systems in your business and ensuring that you really have your finances in good order.  Listen in to find out more about Kendra and the way she runs her firm. Kendra received her degree in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph. She then switched career tracks and enrolled at Humber College, in their Interior Decorating Program.  She graduated there with first-class honors and she's now a Certified Interior Decorator. Listen in today, to find out more about Kendra's take on the business side of Design. Show highlights: Some tips for new Designers about the right kind of questions to ask during the initial consultation with a client. How to find the personal style for each client. Developing a set of questions, to help your client figure out what they're actually looking for. Using Pinterest to help you discover patterns that your client could be gravitating towards. The second consultation is really important- this is usually the make or breaks one. Looking for clues to better inform you about your clients. Dealing with situations where you feel you're not the right fit for the project. Gearing your portfolio towards the kinds of projects you'd really like to be doing in the future. Pictures are really powerful! Take loads of them! What it really takes to be the Boss Lady. The importance of being in the know about the financial aspect of your business. How Kendra handles the interview and hiring process. Links: A Link to Kendra's bio here: About Kendra   Her Website: Kendra Bester Design   Her Instagram: @kendrabesterdesign   Find Kendra on Facebook: Kendra Bester Design   Pinterest: Kendra Bester   Welcome to another episode of A Well Designed Business! Today we have Kendra Bester with us on the show. She's an Interior Decorator who runs her own firm in the Toronto area and today she talks to LuAnn about some of the challenges that she's faced and the things that she's learned in her first three years in business. She also discusses the importance of setting up great systems in your business and ensuring that you really have your finances in good order.  Listen in to find out more about Kendra and the way she runs her firm.

Kendra received her degree in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph. She then switched career tracks and enrolled at Humber College, in their Interior Decorating Program.  She graduated there with first-class honors and she's now a Certified Interior Decorator. Listen in today, to find out more about Kendra's take on the business side of Design.

Show highlights:

  • Some tips for new Designers about the right kind of questions to ask during the initial consultation with a client.
  • How to find the personal style for each client.
  • Developing a set of questions, to help your client figure out what they're actually looking for.
  • Using Pinterest to help you discover patterns that your client could be gravitating towards.
  • The second consultation is really important- this is usually the make or breaks one.
  • Looking for clues to better inform you about your clients.
  • Dealing with situations where you feel you're not the right fit for the project.
  • Gearing your portfolio towards the kinds of projects you'd really like to be doing in the future.
  • Pictures are really powerful! Take loads of them!
  • What it really takes to be the Boss Lady.
  • The importance of being in the know about the financial aspect of your business.
  • How Kendra handles the interview and hiring process.

Links:

A Link to Kendra's bio here: About Kendra   Her Website: Kendra Bester Design   Her Instagram: @kendrabesterdesign   Find Kendra on Facebook: Kendra Bester Design   Pinterest: Kendra Bester  ]]> 3606 no 248: Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/248-marina-umali-how-feng-shui-and-interior-design-meet Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have a really special treat for LuAnn (and hopefully for you too). We have Interior Designer Marina Umali of Marina V Design Studio in New Jersey with us and on today's show she discusses the art of Feng Shui and how she uses this practice in conjunction with her Interior Design work. At the time of recording this show, both Marina and LuAnn were really looking forward to the  Lunch And Learn, where Marina presented Five Easy Steps To Invite Success Into Your Personal And Your Professional Life, With The Art Of Feng Shui, at the Window Works Showroom. Although the Lunch And Learn has already aired, you can still go over to www.facebook.com/awelldesignedbusiness and find it. Listen in to find out more! Marina is a New York State Certified Interior Designer. She's lead accredited and she studied Architecture at Parson School Of Design and Interior Design at The Fashion Institute Of Technology. Marina worked as an Interior Designer for a number of different Architectural firms in New York City, before starting Marina V Design Studio. She is a Certified Feng Shui Practitioner and she is about to start her second term on the board of the International Feng Shui Guild. You may even remember Marina from the My Doma commercials that she recorded over the summer. Listen in now, to find out more about Marina and how she uses the art of Feng Shui to enhance her  Designing. Show highlights: What initially drove Marina to learning about Feng Shui. Marina gives an example of how Feng Shui really changed someone's life. How changing the décor of your home, using the art of Feng Shui, could really bring changes to other, unrelated areas of your life. How Feng Shui really works hand in hand with Interior Design. Marina's common sense approach to using Feng Shui in conjunction with Interior Design. What the course that Marina did, to learn about Feng Shui, entailed. There are a number of different schools of thought about Feng Shui, so this should be kept in mind, when selecting a school, if you're considering studying it. Some of the differences in the various schools of thought about Feng Shui. Why you should care about Feng Shui, in Marina's opinion. How Fung Shui talks to other, seemingly unrelated areas of people's lives, via their intention. Marina explains how Feng Shui is working with LuAnn and her partners, at Window Works. Marina gives some things to bear in mind about Feng Shui, when making some changes, or designing a space. Playing around with the various elements of Feng Shui, to create a more harmonious space. (Water, wood, fire, metal) Why the position of your bed is more important than you'd think. Marina's intuitive use of Feng Shui. What to look out for, in terms of Feng Shui, when looking at a home. Using Feng Shui when changing the layout of a house. What the Feng Shui Guild has been set up for. Marina is going to host a workshop for interior Designers, on how to incorporate Feng Shui into your designs and also about what you need to know about Feng Shui, to inform your clients. If you, as an Interior Designer, have any questions relating to Feng Shui, you can email Marina for answers. (marina@marinavdesignstudio.com) Link: Use the link www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to access the goodies that are there for you! Mon, 23 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have a really special treat for LuAnn (and hopefully for you too). We have Interior Designer Marina Umali of Marina V Design Studio in New Jersey with us and on today's show she discusses the art of Feng... Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have a really special treat for LuAnn (and hopefully for you too). We have Interior Designer Marina Umali of Marina V Design Studio in New Jersey with us and on today's show she discusses the art of Feng Shui and how she uses this practice in conjunction with her Interior Design work. At the time of recording this show, both Marina and LuAnn were really looking forward to the  Lunch And Learn, where Marina presented Five Easy Steps To Invite Success Into Your Personal And Your Professional Life, With The Art Of Feng Shui, at the Window Works Showroom. Although the Lunch And Learn has already aired, you can still go over to www.facebook.com/awelldesignedbusiness and find it. Listen in to find out more! Marina is a New York State Certified Interior Designer. She's lead accredited and she studied Architecture at Parson School Of Design and Interior Design at The Fashion Institute Of Technology. Marina worked as an Interior Designer for a number of different Architectural firms in New York City, before starting Marina V Design Studio. She is a Certified Feng Shui Practitioner and she is about to start her second term on the board of the International Feng Shui Guild. You may even remember Marina from the My Doma commercials that she recorded over the summer. Listen in now, to find out more about Marina and how she uses the art of Feng Shui to enhance her  Designing. Show highlights: What initially drove Marina to learning about Feng Shui. Marina gives an example of how Feng Shui really changed someone's life. How changing the décor of your home, using the art of Feng Shui, could really bring changes to other, unrelated areas of your life. How Feng Shui really works hand in hand with Interior Design. Marina's common sense approach to using Feng Shui in conjunction with Interior Design. What the course that Marina did, to learn about Feng Shui, entailed. There are a number of different schools of thought about Feng Shui, so this should be kept in mind, when selecting a school, if you're considering studying it. Some of the differences in the various schools of thought about Feng Shui. Why you should care about Feng Shui, in Marina's opinion. How Fung Shui talks to other, seemingly unrelated areas of people's lives, via their intention. Marina explains how Feng Shui is working with LuAnn and her partners, at Window Works. Marina gives some things to bear in mind about Feng Shui, when making some changes, or designing a space. Playing around with the various elements of Feng Shui, to create a more harmonious space. (Water, wood, fire, metal) Why the position of your bed is more important than you'd think. Marina's intuitive use of Feng Shui. What to look out for, in terms of Feng Shui, when looking at a home. Using Feng Shui when changing the layout of a house. What the Feng Shui Guild has been set up for. Marina is going to host a workshop for interior Designers, on how to incorporate Feng Shui into your designs and also about what you need to know about Feng Shui, to inform your clients. If you, as an Interior Designer, have any questions relating to Feng Shui, you can email Marina for answers. (marina@marinavdesignstudio.com) Link: Use the link www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to access the goodies that are there for you! Welcome to A Well Designed Business! Today we have a really special treat for LuAnn (and hopefully for you too). We have Interior Designer Marina Umali of Marina V Design Studio in New Jersey with us and on today's show she discusses the art of Feng Shui and how she uses this practice in conjunction with her Interior Design work. At the time of recording this show, both Marina and LuAnn were really looking forward to the  Lunch And Learn, where Marina presented Five Easy Steps To Invite Success Into Your Personal And Your Professional Life, With The Art Of Feng Shui, at the Window Works Showroom. Although the Lunch And Learn has already aired, you can still go over to www.facebook.com/awelldesignedbusiness and find it. Listen in to find out more!

Marina is a New York State Certified Interior Designer. She's lead accredited and she studied Architecture at Parson School Of Design and Interior Design at The Fashion Institute Of Technology. Marina worked as an Interior Designer for a number of different Architectural firms in New York City, before starting Marina V Design Studio. She is a Certified Feng Shui Practitioner and she is about to start her second term on the board of the International Feng Shui Guild. You may even remember Marina from the My Doma commercials that she recorded over the summer. Listen in now, to find out more about Marina and how she uses the art of Feng Shui to enhance her  Designing.

Show highlights:

  • What initially drove Marina to learning about Feng Shui.
  • Marina gives an example of how Feng Shui really changed someone's life.
  • How changing the décor of your home, using the art of Feng Shui, could really bring changes to other, unrelated areas of your life.
  • How Feng Shui really works hand in hand with Interior Design.
  • Marina's common sense approach to using Feng Shui in conjunction with Interior Design.
  • What the course that Marina did, to learn about Feng Shui, entailed.
  • There are a number of different schools of thought about Feng Shui, so this should be kept in mind, when selecting a school, if you're considering studying it.
  • Some of the differences in the various schools of thought about Feng Shui.
  • Why you should care about Feng Shui, in Marina's opinion.
  • How Fung Shui talks to other, seemingly unrelated areas of people's lives, via their intention.
  • Marina explains how Feng Shui is working with LuAnn and her partners, at Window Works.
  • Marina gives some things to bear in mind about Feng Shui, when making some changes, or designing a space.
  • Playing around with the various elements of Feng Shui, to create a more harmonious space. (Water, wood, fire, metal)
  • Why the position of your bed is more important than you'd think.
  • Marina's intuitive use of Feng Shui.
  • What to look out for, in terms of Feng Shui, when looking at a home.
  • Using Feng Shui when changing the layout of a house.
  • What the Feng Shui Guild has been set up for.
  • Marina is going to host a workshop for interior Designers, on how to incorporate Feng Shui into your designs and also about what you need to know about Feng Shui, to inform your clients.

If you, as an Interior Designer, have any questions relating to Feng Shui, you can email Marina for answers. (marina@marinavdesignstudio.com)

Link:

Use the link www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to access the goodies that are there for you!

]]> 3816 no 247: Power Talk Friday: Face Book Coaching Series - FB LIVE with Molly Mahoney http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/247-power-talk-friday-face-book-coaching-series-fb-live-with-molly-maloney Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! This is the next episode in our Facebook Coaching Series and we have the fabulous Molly Mahoney joining us on the show today. Molly is the Prepared Performer, the Camera Confidence Coach and she's also a Facebook Live Ninja! She really has an incredible amount of energy and passion for showing Entrepreneurs, Artists and Business Owners how to up their visibility and online presence by leveraging all the latest and most powerful features that Facebook has to offer. Listen in to find out more! Today, Molly gives some really awesome tips on how to identify your ideal client, so that you can attract them to your Facebook Business Page. She also talks about how to understand Facebook Ads and about how to host Facebook Live broadcasts, to provide great value and build deeper relationships. Molly is the very first guest on this show to talk about Facebook Messenger Bots, which can really help you to attract more of your perfect clients and customers in a unique and reliable way. It is a bit complicated, so pay close attention and you're sure to get it. Molly also has a free gift for you today, so be sure to stay with us right to the end of the show. Listen in now, to learn about the really useful strategies that  Molly has to share with you, to help you to effectively engage with people and to draw them into your Facebook Live Videos.   Show highlights: The real point behind everything that Molly teaches. Focusing on the way that you address a mass audience. Content and confidence- they're both really important. Figuring out who you are. You really are the most important element of your business. An exercise that Molly created, called “The Quesadilla Of Awesome”, to help you discover your own, uniquely awesome skill set. Working with the way you look (and feel about the way you look) on camera. A trick to open your mind, to really embrace the space that your ideal client is in. Molly explains how to start your live video. It's one of the keys to her formula for creating really awesome live videos. Using Messenger Bots to get much higher open rates for your Facebook messages. Tips for staying platform specific and still getting people to 'click this link'. How Messenger Bots can save you having to create PDF's. Awesome ways to use your video to build viewership, even if nobody shows up to watch it. Better ways to boost your video. How Molly does her Facebook Ads as Engagement Ads. Why (and how) you should have your Facebook Ads on the news feed and not on the sidebar. Molly explains all about Messenger Bots, how to use them and what you need to have in place, in order to use them on your Facebook Business Page. Messenger Bots can be overwhelming and confusing, so Molly has created an awesome mini-course called The Messenger Automation Academy. Using Growth Tools as ways to build your subscriber base. Why you should not be doing business on your Facebook Personal Page. How Molly works her Facebook Personal Page to enhance her Facebook Business Page. Molly has a 'done for you' Bot Service because it really can be so confusing for some people. Molly has some really great, free resources for you today! Links: To access everything that Molly has for you today, go to: www.thepreparedperformer.com/design Her website: www.thepreparedperformer.com   Her social: https://www.facebook.com/thepreparedperformer https://twitter.com/prep2perform https://www.instagram.com/thepreparedperformer/ https://www.youtube.com/user/ThePreparedPerformer https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-mahoney-072a1024/ https://www.pinterest.com/mollymmahoney/ Fri, 20 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! This is the next episode in our Facebook Coaching Series and we have the fabulous Molly Mahoney joining us on the show today. Molly is the Prepared Performer, the Camera Confidence Coach and she's also a Facebook... Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! This is the next episode in our Facebook Coaching Series and we have the fabulous Molly Mahoney joining us on the show today. Molly is the Prepared Performer, the Camera Confidence Coach and she's also a Facebook Live Ninja! She really has an incredible amount of energy and passion for showing Entrepreneurs, Artists and Business Owners how to up their visibility and online presence by leveraging all the latest and most powerful features that Facebook has to offer. Listen in to find out more! Today, Molly gives some really awesome tips on how to identify your ideal client, so that you can attract them to your Facebook Business Page. She also talks about how to understand Facebook Ads and about how to host Facebook Live broadcasts, to provide great value and build deeper relationships. Molly is the very first guest on this show to talk about Facebook Messenger Bots, which can really help you to attract more of your perfect clients and customers in a unique and reliable way. It is a bit complicated, so pay close attention and you're sure to get it. Molly also has a free gift for you today, so be sure to stay with us right to the end of the show. Listen in now, to learn about the really useful strategies that  Molly has to share with you, to help you to effectively engage with people and to draw them into your Facebook Live Videos.   Show highlights: The real point behind everything that Molly teaches. Focusing on the way that you address a mass audience. Content and confidence- they're both really important. Figuring out who you are. You really are the most important element of your business. An exercise that Molly created, called “The Quesadilla Of Awesome”, to help you discover your own, uniquely awesome skill set. Working with the way you look (and feel about the way you look) on camera. A trick to open your mind, to really embrace the space that your ideal client is in. Molly explains how to start your live video. It's one of the keys to her formula for creating really awesome live videos. Using Messenger Bots to get much higher open rates for your Facebook messages. Tips for staying platform specific and still getting people to 'click this link'. How Messenger Bots can save you having to create PDF's. Awesome ways to use your video to build viewership, even if nobody shows up to watch it. Better ways to boost your video. How Molly does her Facebook Ads as Engagement Ads. Why (and how) you should have your Facebook Ads on the news feed and not on the sidebar. Molly explains all about Messenger Bots, how to use them and what you need to have in place, in order to use them on your Facebook Business Page. Messenger Bots can be overwhelming and confusing, so Molly has created an awesome mini-course called The Messenger Automation Academy. Using Growth Tools as ways to build your subscriber base. Why you should not be doing business on your Facebook Personal Page. How Molly works her Facebook Personal Page to enhance her Facebook Business Page. Molly has a 'done for you' Bot Service because it really can be so confusing for some people. Molly has some really great, free resources for you today! Links: To access everything that Molly has for you today, go to: www.thepreparedperformer.com/design Her website: www.thepreparedperformer.com   Her social: https://www.facebook.com/thepreparedperformer https://twitter.com/prep2perform https://www.instagram.com/thepreparedperformer/ https://www.youtube.com/user/ThePreparedPerformer https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-mahoney-072a1024/ https://www.pinterest.com/mollymmahoney/ Welcome to today's Power Talk Friday! This is the next episode in our Facebook Coaching Series and we have the fabulous Molly Mahoney joining us on the show today. Molly is the Prepared Performer, the Camera Confidence Coach and she's also a Facebook Live Ninja! She really has an incredible amount of energy and passion for showing Entrepreneurs, Artists and Business Owners how to up their visibility and online presence by leveraging all the latest and most powerful features that Facebook has to offer. Listen in to find out more!

Today, Molly gives some really awesome tips on how to identify your ideal client, so that you can attract them to your Facebook Business Page. She also talks about how to understand Facebook Ads and about how to host Facebook Live broadcasts, to provide great value and build deeper relationships. Molly is the very first guest on this show to talk about Facebook Messenger Bots, which can really help you to attract more of your perfect clients and customers in a unique and reliable way. It is a bit complicated, so pay close attention and you're sure to get it. Molly also has a free gift for you today, so be sure to stay with us right to the end of the show. Listen in now, to learn about the really useful strategies that  Molly has to share with you, to help you to effectively engage with people and to draw them into your Facebook Live Videos.

 

Show highlights:

  • The real point behind everything that Molly teaches.
  • Focusing on the way that you address a mass audience.
  • Content and confidence- they're both really important.
  • Figuring out who you are. You really are the most important element of your business.
  • An exercise that Molly created, called “The Quesadilla Of Awesome”, to help you discover your own, uniquely awesome skill set.
  • Working with the way you look (and feel about the way you look) on camera.
  • A trick to open your mind, to really embrace the space that your ideal client is in.
  • Molly explains how to start your live video. It's one of the keys to her formula for creating really awesome live videos.
  • Using Messenger Bots to get much higher open rates for your Facebook messages.
  • Tips for staying platform specific and still getting people to 'click this link'.
  • How Messenger Bots can save you having to create PDF's.
  • Awesome ways to use your video to build viewership, even if nobody shows up to watch it.
  • Better ways to boost your video.
  • How Molly does her Facebook Ads as Engagement Ads.
  • Why (and how) you should have your Facebook Ads on the news feed and not on the sidebar.
  • Molly explains all about Messenger Bots, how to use them and what you need to have in place, in order to use them on your Facebook Business Page.
  • Messenger Bots can be overwhelming and confusing, so Molly has created an awesome mini-course called The Messenger Automation Academy.
  • Using Growth Tools as ways to build your subscriber base.
  • Why you should not be doing business on your Facebook Personal Page.
  • How Molly works her Facebook Personal Page to enhance her Facebook Business Page.
  • Molly has a 'done for you' Bot Service because it really can be so confusing for some people.
  • Molly has some really great, free resources for you today!

Links:

To access everything that Molly has for you today, go to: www.thepreparedperformer.com/design

Her website: www.thepreparedperformer.com   Her social: https://www.facebook.com/thepreparedperformer https://twitter.com/prep2perform https://www.instagram.com/thepreparedperformer/ https://www.youtube.com/user/ThePreparedPerformer https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-mahoney-072a1024/ https://www.pinterest.com/mollymmahoney/]]> 4192 no 246: Design Biz Live 3 - Design Fees Based on Your Self Assessment http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/246-design-biz-live-3-design-fees-based-on-your-self-assessment We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm. In this show, I talk with Judith about how solo firms and smaller firms can use the assessment to develop their fee structures.Let’s jump into this conversation! Show highlights: Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration Debunking the “ideal client” myth Why you need to get clear on what you do really well A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment: What am I most efficient at? How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at? Look for opportunities to improve your skill set Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees Segmenting your services in each distinct phase How the designer controls “the process” Setting the project and the team up for success How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome How to have the difficult conversations with employees “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?” The “show-tell-do” and feedback process Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure Links: Corey's website: Corey Klassen Judith's website: Road Side Attraction Studio Download the Skills Worksheet Here: www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2 Wed, 18 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio,... We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm. In this show, I talk with Judith about how solo firms and smaller firms can use the assessment to develop their fee structures.Let’s jump into this conversation! Show highlights: Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration Debunking the “ideal client” myth Why you need to get clear on what you do really well A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment: What am I most efficient at? How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at? Look for opportunities to improve your skill set Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees Segmenting your services in each distinct phase How the designer controls “the process” Setting the project and the team up for success How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome How to have the difficult conversations with employees “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?” The “show-tell-do” and feedback process Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure Links: Corey's website: Corey Klassen Judith's website: Road Side Attraction Studio Download the Skills Worksheet Here: www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2 We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm.

In this show, I talk with Judith about how solo firms and smaller firms can use the assessment to develop their fee structures.Let’s jump into this conversation!

Show highlights:

  • Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment
  • How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool
  • The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration
  • Debunking the “ideal client” myth
  • Why you need to get clear on what you do really well
  • A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment:
    • What am I most efficient at?
    • How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at?
  • Look for opportunities to improve your skill set
  • Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity
  • The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates
  • For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees
  • Segmenting your services in each distinct phase
  • How the designer controls “the process”
  • Setting the project and the team up for success
  • How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at
  • How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions
  • When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome
  • How to have the difficult conversations with employees
  • “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?”
  • The “show-tell-do” and feedback process
  • Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer
  • How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure

Links:

Corey's website: Corey Klassen

Judith's website: Road Side Attraction Studio

Download the Skills Worksheet Here: www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2

]]> 3801 no 245: Angela Harris - Building Relationships with Developers & Builders Helped Grow her Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/245-angela-harris-building-relationships-with-developers-builders-helped-grow-her-interior-design-firm Welcome to today's show and happy birthday to LuAnn! Today's guest, Angela Harris, is the principal of Trio Environments and she is a real dynamo! Trio Environments is one of the fastest growing Interior Design and Visual Merchandising firms in the USA today and in less than ten years, it is on track to becoming an international leader in Market-Driven Design. The company currently has over twenty employees and it manages more than seventy-six projects at any given time, both locally and nationally. More than twenty-one thousand homes have been sold with the assistance of Trio Environments, who has also generated over seven billion dollars in revenue to date, from Commercial and Residential clients. Listen in to find out more about Angela and the amazing success she's had with Trio Environments. Angela has a B.S. in Marketing and Management, from the University of Colorado. After obtaining her degree, she went to work in an Engineering Firm but wasn't really happy there, because she didn't feel that she was living up to her full potential, so she dropped everything to pursue her dream career in Interior Design. She enrolled in an Interior Design program and spent her last five hundred dollars on business cards, direct mail and a few another start-up costs and then she launched Trio Environments.  Angela also has a Masters Degree in Sustainable Design, from the Philadelphia University and she sits on the Denver Home Builders Association Board of Directors. She manages seven councils through the HBA and she sits on the Sales and Marketing Council for the National Association of Home Builders. Angela has developed a three-part process, to give her company a competitive edge- it assesses a client's baseline value, through their Design program, it introduces Market Design principals and finally, it executes a design that's innovative, attractive and profitable. Listen in now, to find out how important it really is to be prepared and to have good systems in place and also to experience the passion that inspires Angela to fuse her market-driven approach with the creation of really beautiful spaces. Show highlights: Angela describes the types of relationships that she has built her business on, with builders and developers. How Angela has been able to expand her brand, to really handle the entire creative process. Angela describes her company's creative process, which really allows them to be a part of something bigger. Angela explains how their process is really all about the experience of their audience, where every detail is relevant. Angela discusses the enormous amount of work that they do on the upfront side of their projects, in terms of Market Research and Market Data. Why Angela thinks that her company has been so much more successful than most Design Firms. Angela explains her initial process of creating relationships with builders and developers- what it takes and how you, as a Designer, could learn to do the same. Angela explains the best way to start out with doing the types of projects that she does. Angela discusses how she went about creating a really awesome team, with great synergy. Capitalising on people's strengths and passions, rather than their weaknesses, to make the whole machine work. Angela explains the way that her whole team works and what everyone focuses on. They really want to help and support one another. The tight systems and solid processes that they have in place. How they actually developed these processes. Angela's Colorado Companies To Watch video, where they were awarded recognition, as one of the Companies to watch. The criteria that actually earned Angela the Award. What is involved in the bidding process, for projects? Please give LuAnn a bit of birthday love today and go on over to iTunes and rate and review this show. She will really appreciate it! Links: Her website: http://trioenvironments.com/angela-harris.htm Social: https://www.instagram.com/trioenvironments/ https://www.facebook.com/TRIOEnvironments https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-harris-89314a11/ Mon, 16 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's show and happy birthday to LuAnn! Today's guest, Angela Harris, is the principal of Trio Environments and she is a real dynamo! Trio Environments is one of the fastest growing Interior Design and Visual Merchandising firms in the... Welcome to today's show and happy birthday to LuAnn! Today's guest, Angela Harris, is the principal of Trio Environments and she is a real dynamo! Trio Environments is one of the fastest growing Interior Design and Visual Merchandising firms in the USA today and in less than ten years, it is on track to becoming an international leader in Market-Driven Design. The company currently has over twenty employees and it manages more than seventy-six projects at any given time, both locally and nationally. More than twenty-one thousand homes have been sold with the assistance of Trio Environments, who has also generated over seven billion dollars in revenue to date, from Commercial and Residential clients. Listen in to find out more about Angela and the amazing success she's had with Trio Environments. Angela has a B.S. in Marketing and Management, from the University of Colorado. After obtaining her degree, she went to work in an Engineering Firm but wasn't really happy there, because she didn't feel that she was living up to her full potential, so she dropped everything to pursue her dream career in Interior Design. She enrolled in an Interior Design program and spent her last five hundred dollars on business cards, direct mail and a few another start-up costs and then she launched Trio Environments.  Angela also has a Masters Degree in Sustainable Design, from the Philadelphia University and she sits on the Denver Home Builders Association Board of Directors. She manages seven councils through the HBA and she sits on the Sales and Marketing Council for the National Association of Home Builders. Angela has developed a three-part process, to give her company a competitive edge- it assesses a client's baseline value, through their Design program, it introduces Market Design principals and finally, it executes a design that's innovative, attractive and profitable. Listen in now, to find out how important it really is to be prepared and to have good systems in place and also to experience the passion that inspires Angela to fuse her market-driven approach with the creation of really beautiful spaces. Show highlights: Angela describes the types of relationships that she has built her business on, with builders and developers. How Angela has been able to expand her brand, to really handle the entire creative process. Angela describes her company's creative process, which really allows them to be a part of something bigger. Angela explains how their process is really all about the experience of their audience, where every detail is relevant. Angela discusses the enormous amount of work that they do on the upfront side of their projects, in terms of Market Research and Market Data. Why Angela thinks that her company has been so much more successful than most Design Firms. Angela explains her initial process of creating relationships with builders and developers- what it takes and how you, as a Designer, could learn to do the same. Angela explains the best way to start out with doing the types of projects that she does. Angela discusses how she went about creating a really awesome team, with great synergy. Capitalising on people's strengths and passions, rather than their weaknesses, to make the whole machine work. Angela explains the way that her whole team works and what everyone focuses on. They really want to help and support one another. The tight systems and solid processes that they have in place. How they actually developed these processes. Angela's Colorado Companies To Watch video, where they were awarded recognition, as one of the Companies to watch. The criteria that actually earned Angela the Award. What is involved in the bidding process, for projects? Please give LuAnn a bit of birthday love today and go on over to iTunes and rate and review this show. She will really appreciate it! Links: Her website: http://trioenvironments.com/angela-harris.htm Social: https://www.instagram.com/trioenvironments/ https://www.facebook.com/TRIOEnvironments https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-harris-89314a11/ Welcome to today's show and happy birthday to LuAnn!

Today's guest, Angela Harris, is the principal of Trio Environments and she is a real dynamo! Trio Environments is one of the fastest growing Interior Design and Visual Merchandising firms in the USA today and in less than ten years, it is on track to becoming an international leader in Market-Driven Design. The company currently has over twenty employees and it manages more than seventy-six projects at any given time, both locally and nationally. More than twenty-one thousand homes have been sold with the assistance of Trio Environments, who has also generated over seven billion dollars in revenue to date, from Commercial and Residential clients. Listen in to find out more about Angela and the amazing success she's had with Trio Environments.

Angela has a B.S. in Marketing and Management, from the University of Colorado. After obtaining her degree, she went to work in an Engineering Firm but wasn't really happy there, because she didn't feel that she was living up to her full potential, so she dropped everything to pursue her dream career in Interior Design. She enrolled in an Interior Design program and spent her last five hundred dollars on business cards, direct mail and a few another start-up costs and then she launched Trio Environments.  Angela also has a Masters Degree in Sustainable Design, from the Philadelphia University and she sits on the Denver Home Builders Association Board of Directors. She manages seven councils through the HBA and she sits on the Sales and Marketing Council for the National Association of Home Builders.

Angela has developed a three-part process, to give her company a competitive edge- it assesses a client's baseline value, through their Design program, it introduces Market Design principals and finally, it executes a design that's innovative, attractive and profitable. Listen in now, to find out how important it really is to be prepared and to have good systems in place and also to experience the passion that inspires Angela to fuse her market-driven approach with the creation of really beautiful spaces.

Show highlights:

  • Angela describes the types of relationships that she has built her business on, with builders and developers.
  • How Angela has been able to expand her brand, to really handle the entire creative process.
  • Angela describes her company's creative process, which really allows them to be a part of something bigger.
  • Angela explains how their process is really all about the experience of their audience, where every detail is relevant.
  • Angela discusses the enormous amount of work that they do on the upfront side of their projects, in terms of Market Research and Market Data.
  • Why Angela thinks that her company has been so much more successful than most Design Firms.
  • Angela explains her initial process of creating relationships with builders and developers- what it takes and how you, as a Designer, could learn to do the same.
  • Angela explains the best way to start out with doing the types of projects that she does.
  • Angela discusses how she went about creating a really awesome team, with great synergy.
  • Capitalising on people's strengths and passions, rather than their weaknesses, to make the whole machine work.
  • Angela explains the way that her whole team works and what everyone focuses on. They really want to help and support one another.
  • The tight systems and solid processes that they have in place.
  • How they actually developed these processes.
  • Angela's Colorado Companies To Watch video, where they were awarded recognition, as one of the Companies to watch.
  • The criteria that actually earned Angela the Award.
  • What is involved in the bidding process, for projects?

Please give LuAnn a bit of birthday love today and go on over to iTunes and rate and review this show. She will really appreciate it!

Links:

Her website: http://trioenvironments.com/angela-harris.htm Social: https://www.instagram.com/trioenvironments/ https://www.facebook.com/TRIOEnvironments https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-harris-89314a11/ ]]> 3241 no 244: Power Talk Friday: Lyndsay Phillips - How a VA Can Help You With Your Marketing http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/244-power-talk-friday-lyndsay-phillips-how-a-va-can-help-you-with-your-marketing We have Lyndsay Phillips with us on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is really looking forward to sharing her with you today because Lyndsay is a self-confessed organizational freak, appointed task manager, and project ninja. She's also a warrior VA (read Virtual Assistant) for Business Coaches, Accountants, Small Business Owners and Online Entrepreneurs. Her business is called Smooth Sailing Online Support and she also has a podcast called Sailing To Success Podcast.  Listen in to find out more about Lyndsay, who really understands the challenges around hiring someone to help you, when growing your business and reaching the next level. Lyndsay and her super team of VA's support entrepreneurs, just like you, who have fast-paced businesses with fast-paced growth. They really help people, by managing their back office, implementing their Marketing and strategizing and implementing their Social Media Campaigns. Listen in now, to find out how Lyndsay takes care of the detail and the moving pieces, which can all be quite overwhelming for really busy people. Show highlights: Lyndsay explains why asking for help is not a weakness- in fact, it actually shows strength. Lyndsay explains how she and her team really are expert at everything that they do, in terms of supporting a business. Lyndsay's team really do understand the importance of proper postings on Social Media. The services and the packages that Lyndsay offers, to fit the unique needs of every client. Lyndsay has an enormous amount of resources and some really useful blog posts on her website. (lyndsayphillips.com) Lyndsay's suggestions for how to be really productive in the 'working at home' environment. Lyndsay even turns Skype off, if she really needs to focus on something, because derailing her focus makes her less productive. Why you should schedule breaks into your day. Ways to implement internal deadlines. Not allowing social media to be a major distraction in your day. Ways that you can use little systems, to minimise the need to reply to emails. Using the Boomerang App for emails, to avoid unnecessary distractions. The impact of your environment on the way that you feel and on your productivity. Go to lyndsayphillips.com for your free copy of Lyndsay's Client Attraction System and you can also go to www.smoothbusinessgrowth.com/beproductive for more information about what Lyndsay does. Lyndsay also works with brick and mortar businesses. Links: Her email: captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Her social and website info: www.SmoothBusinessGrowth.com captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Twitter  and  Facebook: www.LyndsayPhillips.com Fri, 13 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Lyndsay Phillips with us on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is really looking forward to sharing her with you today because Lyndsay is a self-confessed organizational freak, appointed task manager, and project ninja. She's also a warrior VA... We have Lyndsay Phillips with us on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is really looking forward to sharing her with you today because Lyndsay is a self-confessed organizational freak, appointed task manager, and project ninja. She's also a warrior VA (read Virtual Assistant) for Business Coaches, Accountants, Small Business Owners and Online Entrepreneurs. Her business is called Smooth Sailing Online Support and she also has a podcast called Sailing To Success Podcast.  Listen in to find out more about Lyndsay, who really understands the challenges around hiring someone to help you, when growing your business and reaching the next level. Lyndsay and her super team of VA's support entrepreneurs, just like you, who have fast-paced businesses with fast-paced growth. They really help people, by managing their back office, implementing their Marketing and strategizing and implementing their Social Media Campaigns. Listen in now, to find out how Lyndsay takes care of the detail and the moving pieces, which can all be quite overwhelming for really busy people. Show highlights: Lyndsay explains why asking for help is not a weakness- in fact, it actually shows strength. Lyndsay explains how she and her team really are expert at everything that they do, in terms of supporting a business. Lyndsay's team really do understand the importance of proper postings on Social Media. The services and the packages that Lyndsay offers, to fit the unique needs of every client. Lyndsay has an enormous amount of resources and some really useful blog posts on her website. (lyndsayphillips.com) Lyndsay's suggestions for how to be really productive in the 'working at home' environment. Lyndsay even turns Skype off, if she really needs to focus on something, because derailing her focus makes her less productive. Why you should schedule breaks into your day. Ways to implement internal deadlines. Not allowing social media to be a major distraction in your day. Ways that you can use little systems, to minimise the need to reply to emails. Using the Boomerang App for emails, to avoid unnecessary distractions. The impact of your environment on the way that you feel and on your productivity. Go to lyndsayphillips.com for your free copy of Lyndsay's Client Attraction System and you can also go to www.smoothbusinessgrowth.com/beproductive for more information about what Lyndsay does. Lyndsay also works with brick and mortar businesses. Links: Her email: captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Her social and website info: www.SmoothBusinessGrowth.com captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Twitter  and  Facebook: www.LyndsayPhillips.com We have Lyndsay Phillips with us on today's Power Talk Friday. LuAnn is really looking forward to sharing her with you today because Lyndsay is a self-confessed organizational freak, appointed task manager, and project ninja. She's also a warrior VA (read Virtual Assistant) for Business Coaches, Accountants, Small Business Owners and Online Entrepreneurs. Her business is called Smooth Sailing Online Support and she also has a podcast called Sailing To Success Podcast.  Listen in to find out more about Lyndsay, who really understands the challenges around hiring someone to help you, when growing your business and reaching the next level.

Lyndsay and her super team of VA's support entrepreneurs, just like you, who have fast-paced businesses with fast-paced growth. They really help people, by managing their back office, implementing their Marketing and strategizing and implementing their Social Media Campaigns. Listen in now, to find out how Lyndsay takes care of the detail and the moving pieces, which can all be quite overwhelming for really busy people.

Show highlights:

  • Lyndsay explains why asking for help is not a weakness- in fact, it actually shows strength.
  • Lyndsay explains how she and her team really are expert at everything that they do, in terms of supporting a business.
  • Lyndsay's team really do understand the importance of proper postings on Social Media.
  • The services and the packages that Lyndsay offers, to fit the unique needs of every client.
  • Lyndsay has an enormous amount of resources and some really useful blog posts on her website. (lyndsayphillips.com)
  • Lyndsay's suggestions for how to be really productive in the 'working at home' environment.
  • Lyndsay even turns Skype off, if she really needs to focus on something, because derailing her focus makes her less productive.
  • Why you should schedule breaks into your day.
  • Ways to implement internal deadlines.
  • Not allowing social media to be a major distraction in your day.
  • Ways that you can use little systems, to minimise the need to reply to emails.
  • Using the Boomerang App for emails, to avoid unnecessary distractions.
  • The impact of your environment on the way that you feel and on your productivity.
  • Go to lyndsayphillips.com for your free copy of Lyndsay's Client Attraction System and you can also go to www.smoothbusinessgrowth.com/beproductive for more information about what Lyndsay does.
  • Lyndsay also works with brick and mortar businesses.

Links:

Her email: captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Her social and website info: www.SmoothBusinessGrowth.com captain@smoothbusinessgrowth.com Twitter  and  Facebook: www.LyndsayPhillips.com ]]> 2914 no 243: Jason Harris - How The Design Network Can Help Grow Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/243-jason-harris-how-the-design-network-can-help-grow-your-interior-design-business Today we have Jason Harris on the show and he's someone that LuAnn's been hearing a lot about recently. There seems to be quite a buzz going on around his relatively new platform, The Design Network, yet while doing some research about Jason and his background, LuAnn found herself very intrigued about his primary business, Furniture Land South. So on the show today, they talk about this primary business, as well as about the innovation and development of the Design Network. Listen in to find out more about Jason, his family business, and his really successful Design Network. Jason's father started his business, way back in 1968, and in just one generation, he created Furniture Land South, the largest retail furniture store in the world! It covers one point three million square feet of space, they have a hundred and sixty Design Consultants working there, they represent more than a thousand brands of home furnishing companies and they turn over a hundred and fifty million dollars per year.  Listen in now, to find out more about Furniture Land South and about how Jason developed the Design Network. Show highlights: Jason talks about what it was like, growing up in his dad's business. The really explosive growth of the business, which took place between 1990 and 2000, after they moved to a new campus. How Jason contributed to the successful business, between 1990 and 2000. What Jason learned from working in the business. How Jason's passion for sales and marketing developed, through his years of working in the business. The innovations that Jason brought to the business, as a young person, fresh out of college. Jason's initiative in transforming the business from paper-based to an automated system. How Jason's Dad involved both his sons in the business, from very early on. Jason explains how he's never even thought of doing anything other than working in their family business- it's something he has always been really passionate about. What inspired Jason to create his Design Network, which was started as a completely independent platform from Furniture land South. The difficulties that Jason had, in keeping the Design Network separate from Furniture Land South. Jason discusses how consumers can connect with Designers, on his Trade Direct Program. The great benefits for Designers who sign up for Jason's Trade Direct Program. What makes the Design Network a really great solution for Designers- they are really leveraging this resource now, more than ever. How Designers can interact with the Design Network platform. The Designer Boards, a unique feature of the Design Network and a great way for Designers to make a passive income. How consumers are being driven to the Design Network platform. The explorer section on the Design Network website. How the Designer Network is really making it easier for consumers to design their homes. How people are being reached at an entertainment level, on the Design Network. Finding a Design Consultant that's the right fit for you, on the Design Network platform. Links: Email: jason@thedesignnetwork.com Website:  www.TheDesignNetwork.com His social: https://twitter.com/furniturelands http://blog.furniturelandsouth.com https://www.facebook.com/FurniturelandSouthNC https://www.houzz.com/pro/furniturelandsouth/furnitureland-south https://www.youtube.com/user/furniturelandsouth Wed, 11 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Jason Harris on the show and he's someone that LuAnn's been hearing a lot about recently. There seems to be quite a buzz going on around his relatively new platform, The Design Network, yet while doing some research about Jason and his... Today we have Jason Harris on the show and he's someone that LuAnn's been hearing a lot about recently. There seems to be quite a buzz going on around his relatively new platform, The Design Network, yet while doing some research about Jason and his background, LuAnn found herself very intrigued about his primary business, Furniture Land South. So on the show today, they talk about this primary business, as well as about the innovation and development of the Design Network. Listen in to find out more about Jason, his family business, and his really successful Design Network. Jason's father started his business, way back in 1968, and in just one generation, he created Furniture Land South, the largest retail furniture store in the world! It covers one point three million square feet of space, they have a hundred and sixty Design Consultants working there, they represent more than a thousand brands of home furnishing companies and they turn over a hundred and fifty million dollars per year.  Listen in now, to find out more about Furniture Land South and about how Jason developed the Design Network. Show highlights: Jason talks about what it was like, growing up in his dad's business. The really explosive growth of the business, which took place between 1990 and 2000, after they moved to a new campus. How Jason contributed to the successful business, between 1990 and 2000. What Jason learned from working in the business. How Jason's passion for sales and marketing developed, through his years of working in the business. The innovations that Jason brought to the business, as a young person, fresh out of college. Jason's initiative in transforming the business from paper-based to an automated system. How Jason's Dad involved both his sons in the business, from very early on. Jason explains how he's never even thought of doing anything other than working in their family business- it's something he has always been really passionate about. What inspired Jason to create his Design Network, which was started as a completely independent platform from Furniture land South. The difficulties that Jason had, in keeping the Design Network separate from Furniture Land South. Jason discusses how consumers can connect with Designers, on his Trade Direct Program. The great benefits for Designers who sign up for Jason's Trade Direct Program. What makes the Design Network a really great solution for Designers- they are really leveraging this resource now, more than ever. How Designers can interact with the Design Network platform. The Designer Boards, a unique feature of the Design Network and a great way for Designers to make a passive income. How consumers are being driven to the Design Network platform. The explorer section on the Design Network website. How the Designer Network is really making it easier for consumers to design their homes. How people are being reached at an entertainment level, on the Design Network. Finding a Design Consultant that's the right fit for you, on the Design Network platform. Links: Email: jason@thedesignnetwork.com Website:  www.TheDesignNetwork.com His social: https://twitter.com/furniturelands http://blog.furniturelandsouth.com https://www.facebook.com/FurniturelandSouthNC https://www.houzz.com/pro/furniturelandsouth/furnitureland-south https://www.youtube.com/user/furniturelandsouth Today we have Jason Harris on the show and he's someone that LuAnn's been hearing a lot about recently. There seems to be quite a buzz going on around his relatively new platform, The Design Network, yet while doing some research about Jason and his background, LuAnn found herself very intrigued about his primary business, Furniture Land South. So on the show today, they talk about this primary business, as well as about the innovation and development of the Design Network. Listen in to find out more about Jason, his family business, and his really successful Design Network.

Jason's father started his business, way back in 1968, and in just one generation, he created Furniture Land South, the largest retail furniture store in the world! It covers one point three million square feet of space, they have a hundred and sixty Design Consultants working there, they represent more than a thousand brands of home furnishing companies and they turn over a hundred and fifty million dollars per year.  Listen in now, to find out more about Furniture Land South and about how Jason developed the Design Network.

Show highlights:

  • Jason talks about what it was like, growing up in his dad's business.
  • The really explosive growth of the business, which took place between 1990 and 2000, after they moved to a new campus.
  • How Jason contributed to the successful business, between 1990 and 2000.
  • What Jason learned from working in the business.
  • How Jason's passion for sales and marketing developed, through his years of working in the business.
  • The innovations that Jason brought to the business, as a young person, fresh out of college.
  • Jason's initiative in transforming the business from paper-based to an automated system.
  • How Jason's Dad involved both his sons in the business, from very early on.
  • Jason explains how he's never even thought of doing anything other than working in their family business- it's something he has always been really passionate about.
  • What inspired Jason to create his Design Network, which was started as a completely independent platform from Furniture land South.
  • The difficulties that Jason had, in keeping the Design Network separate from Furniture Land South.
  • Jason discusses how consumers can connect with Designers, on his Trade Direct Program.
  • The great benefits for Designers who sign up for Jason's Trade Direct Program.
  • What makes the Design Network a really great solution for Designers- they are really leveraging this resource now, more than ever.
  • How Designers can interact with the Design Network platform.
  • The Designer Boards, a unique feature of the Design Network and a great way for Designers to make a passive income.
  • How consumers are being driven to the Design Network platform.
  • The explorer section on the Design Network website.
  • How the Designer Network is really making it easier for consumers to design their homes.
  • How people are being reached at an entertainment level, on the Design Network.
  • Finding a Design Consultant that's the right fit for you, on the Design Network platform.

Links:

Email: jason@thedesignnetwork.com Website:  www.TheDesignNetwork.com His social: https://twitter.com/furniturelands http://blog.furniturelandsouth.com https://www.facebook.com/FurniturelandSouthNC https://www.houzz.com/pro/furniturelandsouth/furnitureland-south https://www.youtube.com/user/furniturelandsouth ]]> 3780 no 242: Carla Aston - How To Grow Your Interior Design Blog, Intentionally http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/242-carla-aston-how-to-grow-your-interior-design-blog-intentionally LuAnn is really happy to have Carla Aston as her guest on today's show! Many of you may know Carla from her Design Blog, Designed With Carla Aston, where twice a week, she shares quality content and also her passion for Interior Design, with her two hundred thousand loyal followers. When Carla's inbox started getting really full of questions and messages from her readers, she branched out and started doing E-Consultations, where she personally and intentionally addresses home owner's questions about Design, via email. Then Carla realized that if she made E-Books on the same topics and dilemmas, with the same solutions as her E-Consultations, she would be able to sell these on her website too. Listen in now, to find out more about Carla, her Consultations, and her E-Books. Carla, a very smart lady,  obtained a B.F.A. In Interior Design and then spent nine years working in Architectural Design Firms, both large and small. Since then, Carla and her family have lived in Norway and Australia, which has really given her a great perspective on culture, lifestyle, architecture, and design, all of which she brings to both her business and her blog. Carla has invested time and money and she has built her career very intentionally, so listen in, because you are really going to love the way she explains all of this, on the show today. Show highlights: Carla, who has a really clear and perfectly laid out website, explains why she likes to educate her clients, prior to working with them. Carla explains how she tailored her business over the years, to become a perfect fit for her. Carla explains where her Designed In A Click E-Consultation service came from and how works. Carla explains her alternative service, Designed By Styling. Carla explains all about her ninety minutes Designed With A Consultation service, which is done in the way that she really prefers to do things. Carla discusses the purpose behind the Outlet Area on her website, which mostly consists of PDF's on various topics that she's dealt with in her blog posts, available for between $10 and $12. Carla talks about which of her services provide the best revenue streams. The value in re-purposing certain content, that has already been used on your website. Carla discusses the biggest piece that she's selling currently, a nineteen-page PDF based on her own experiences, which deals with the issues and concerns that Designers tend to have when doing consultations. Carla discusses the components of her successful blog, Designed With Carla Aston, which is really a huge catalog and also the gateway to everything that Carla is selling. The branding mistake that Carla made, prior to getting started on her new, improved platform. What really drives Carla. The Consultant/Coach that Carla hired for the first few years before she found her own, unique voice. The most common questions that Carla gets from Designers. Carla's advice for a Designer who lives far out, in a rural area. Carla's plans for the future. Links: Email: Carla@CarlaAston.com Her social: https://www.instagram.com/carlaaston/ https://twitter.com/search?q=carla%20aston&src=typd Her website: CarlaAston.com Mon, 09 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara LuAnn is really happy to have Carla Aston as her guest on today's show! Many of you may know Carla from her Design Blog, Designed With Carla Aston, where twice a week, she shares quality content and also her passion for Interior Design, with her two... LuAnn is really happy to have Carla Aston as her guest on today's show! Many of you may know Carla from her Design Blog, Designed With Carla Aston, where twice a week, she shares quality content and also her passion for Interior Design, with her two hundred thousand loyal followers. When Carla's inbox started getting really full of questions and messages from her readers, she branched out and started doing E-Consultations, where she personally and intentionally addresses home owner's questions about Design, via email. Then Carla realized that if she made E-Books on the same topics and dilemmas, with the same solutions as her E-Consultations, she would be able to sell these on her website too. Listen in now, to find out more about Carla, her Consultations, and her E-Books. Carla, a very smart lady,  obtained a B.F.A. In Interior Design and then spent nine years working in Architectural Design Firms, both large and small. Since then, Carla and her family have lived in Norway and Australia, which has really given her a great perspective on culture, lifestyle, architecture, and design, all of which she brings to both her business and her blog. Carla has invested time and money and she has built her career very intentionally, so listen in, because you are really going to love the way she explains all of this, on the show today. Show highlights: Carla, who has a really clear and perfectly laid out website, explains why she likes to educate her clients, prior to working with them. Carla explains how she tailored her business over the years, to become a perfect fit for her. Carla explains where her Designed In A Click E-Consultation service came from and how works. Carla explains her alternative service, Designed By Styling. Carla explains all about her ninety minutes Designed With A Consultation service, which is done in the way that she really prefers to do things. Carla discusses the purpose behind the Outlet Area on her website, which mostly consists of PDF's on various topics that she's dealt with in her blog posts, available for between $10 and $12. Carla talks about which of her services provide the best revenue streams. The value in re-purposing certain content, that has already been used on your website. Carla discusses the biggest piece that she's selling currently, a nineteen-page PDF based on her own experiences, which deals with the issues and concerns that Designers tend to have when doing consultations. Carla discusses the components of her successful blog, Designed With Carla Aston, which is really a huge catalog and also the gateway to everything that Carla is selling. The branding mistake that Carla made, prior to getting started on her new, improved platform. What really drives Carla. The Consultant/Coach that Carla hired for the first few years before she found her own, unique voice. The most common questions that Carla gets from Designers. Carla's advice for a Designer who lives far out, in a rural area. Carla's plans for the future. Links: Email: Carla@CarlaAston.com Her social: https://www.instagram.com/carlaaston/ https://twitter.com/search?q=carla%20aston&src=typd Her website: CarlaAston.com LuAnn is really happy to have Carla Aston as her guest on today's show! Many of you may know Carla from her Design Blog, Designed With Carla Aston, where twice a week, she shares quality content and also her passion for Interior Design, with her two hundred thousand loyal followers. When Carla's inbox started getting really full of questions and messages from her readers, she branched out and started doing E-Consultations, where she personally and intentionally addresses home owner's questions about Design, via email. Then Carla realized that if she made E-Books on the same topics and dilemmas, with the same solutions as her E-Consultations, she would be able to sell these on her website too. Listen in now, to find out more about Carla, her Consultations, and her E-Books.

Carla, a very smart lady,  obtained a B.F.A. In Interior Design and then spent nine years working in Architectural Design Firms, both large and small. Since then, Carla and her family have lived in Norway and Australia, which has really given her a great perspective on culture, lifestyle, architecture, and design, all of which she brings to both her business and her blog. Carla has invested time and money and she has built her career very intentionally, so listen in, because you are really going to love the way she explains all of this, on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Carla, who has a really clear and perfectly laid out website, explains why she likes to educate her clients, prior to working with them.
  • Carla explains how she tailored her business over the years, to become a perfect fit for her.
  • Carla explains where her Designed In A Click E-Consultation service came from and how works.
  • Carla explains her alternative service, Designed By Styling.
  • Carla explains all about her ninety minutes Designed With A Consultation service, which is done in the way that she really prefers to do things.
  • Carla discusses the purpose behind the Outlet Area on her website, which mostly consists of PDF's on various topics that she's dealt with in her blog posts, available for between $10 and $12.
  • Carla talks about which of her services provide the best revenue streams.
  • The value in re-purposing certain content, that has already been used on your website.
  • Carla discusses the biggest piece that she's selling currently, a nineteen-page PDF based on her own experiences, which deals with the issues and concerns that Designers tend to have when doing consultations.
  • Carla discusses the components of her successful blog, Designed With Carla Aston, which is really a huge catalog and also the gateway to everything that Carla is selling.
  • The branding mistake that Carla made, prior to getting started on her new, improved platform.
  • What really drives Carla.
  • The Consultant/Coach that Carla hired for the first few years before she found her own, unique voice.
  • The most common questions that Carla gets from Designers.
  • Carla's advice for a Designer who lives far out, in a rural area.
  • Carla's plans for the future.

Links:

Email: Carla@CarlaAston.com Her social: https://www.instagram.com/carlaaston/ https://twitter.com/search?q=carla%20aston&src=typd Her website: CarlaAston.com ]]> 4198 no 241: Power Talk Friday: Acuity Scheduling - Gavin Zuchlinski - Explains How He Can Help Organize Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/241-power-talk-friday-acuity-scheduling-gavin-zuchlinski-explains-how-he-can-help-organize-your-interior-design-firm Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are very happy to have Gavin Zuchlinski on the show.  He is the founder of Acuity Scheduling, which is the slickest way for businesses to automate and manage their appointments online because it actually allows your clients to schedule themselves.  LuAnn has an inkling that the features of Acuity Scheduling may be even better than the one she's using, so she may be switching over... Listen in to find out more. Gavin is a self-professed Tech Geek and an Espresso maniac, and he's also a really fun guy who truly and wholeheartedly believes that business should be fun. Acuity Scheduling currently supports over fifty thousand businesses, all of the different sizes, from solo-preneures to major corporations with thousands of employees. They have a really efficient Customer Service Department and their focus is on making life way easier for entrepreneurs and business owners. Listen in now to find out how Acuity Services could make your life much easier and help you run your business. Show highlights: Gavin explains what his company does, to help you to run your business. How you can customise this service to suit your specific requirements. How this service can really help you to be prepared and allow you to be more efficient. Gavin discusses the different ways that you could use this service. You could even embed Acuity on your website. How a potential client could actually schedule an appointment with you, online. How the service can make it easier for you to connect with potential clients and coordinate appointment times. About forty percent of all appointments are booked after hours when businesses are already closed for the day. How this service can help you to follow through with a potential client and convert. Even if you don't yet have a website, you can still use this service. You can even filter different kinds of requests for appointments to different parts of your calendar. How to set up and manage different appointment types. Getting reminder emails for your appointments. The monthly charges for the various services. What you can get from Acuity Scheduling, absolutely free. How you could give gift certificates via this service. You can customise this service with your own logos. Gavin explains how he initially came up with this service, to help his Mom. The six-hour work days for Gavin's Customer Support teams. If you'd like to try Acuity out, go to www.acuityscheduling.com/luann for an extended 45-day trial. (It's normally only for 14 days.) Links: https://www.facebook.com/acuityscheduling http://twitter.com/AcuitySchedulin   https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-zuchlinski-30b06885 Fri, 06 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are very happy to have Gavin Zuchlinski on the show.  He is the founder of Acuity Scheduling, which is the slickest way for businesses to automate and manage their appointments online because it... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are very happy to have Gavin Zuchlinski on the show.  He is the founder of Acuity Scheduling, which is the slickest way for businesses to automate and manage their appointments online because it actually allows your clients to schedule themselves.  LuAnn has an inkling that the features of Acuity Scheduling may be even better than the one she's using, so she may be switching over... Listen in to find out more. Gavin is a self-professed Tech Geek and an Espresso maniac, and he's also a really fun guy who truly and wholeheartedly believes that business should be fun. Acuity Scheduling currently supports over fifty thousand businesses, all of the different sizes, from solo-preneures to major corporations with thousands of employees. They have a really efficient Customer Service Department and their focus is on making life way easier for entrepreneurs and business owners. Listen in now to find out how Acuity Services could make your life much easier and help you run your business. Show highlights: Gavin explains what his company does, to help you to run your business. How you can customise this service to suit your specific requirements. How this service can really help you to be prepared and allow you to be more efficient. Gavin discusses the different ways that you could use this service. You could even embed Acuity on your website. How a potential client could actually schedule an appointment with you, online. How the service can make it easier for you to connect with potential clients and coordinate appointment times. About forty percent of all appointments are booked after hours when businesses are already closed for the day. How this service can help you to follow through with a potential client and convert. Even if you don't yet have a website, you can still use this service. You can even filter different kinds of requests for appointments to different parts of your calendar. How to set up and manage different appointment types. Getting reminder emails for your appointments. The monthly charges for the various services. What you can get from Acuity Scheduling, absolutely free. How you could give gift certificates via this service. You can customise this service with your own logos. Gavin explains how he initially came up with this service, to help his Mom. The six-hour work days for Gavin's Customer Support teams. If you'd like to try Acuity out, go to www.acuityscheduling.com/luann for an extended 45-day trial. (It's normally only for 14 days.) Links: https://www.facebook.com/acuityscheduling http://twitter.com/AcuitySchedulin   https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-zuchlinski-30b06885 Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! Today we are very happy to have Gavin Zuchlinski on the show.  He is the founder of Acuity Scheduling, which is the slickest way for businesses to automate and manage their appointments online because it actually allows your clients to schedule themselves.  LuAnn has an inkling that the features of Acuity Scheduling may be even better than the one she's using, so she may be switching over... Listen in to find out more.

Gavin is a self-professed Tech Geek and an Espresso maniac, and he's also a really fun guy who truly and wholeheartedly believes that business should be fun. Acuity Scheduling currently supports over fifty thousand businesses, all of the different sizes, from solo-preneures to major corporations with thousands of employees. They have a really efficient Customer Service Department and their focus is on making life way easier for entrepreneurs and business owners. Listen in now to find out how Acuity Services could make your life much easier and help you run your business.

Show highlights:

  • Gavin explains what his company does, to help you to run your business.
  • How you can customise this service to suit your specific requirements.
  • How this service can really help you to be prepared and allow you to be more efficient.
  • Gavin discusses the different ways that you could use this service.
  • You could even embed Acuity on your website.
  • How a potential client could actually schedule an appointment with you, online.
  • How the service can make it easier for you to connect with potential clients and coordinate appointment times.
  • About forty percent of all appointments are booked after hours when businesses are already closed for the day.
  • How this service can help you to follow through with a potential client and convert.
  • Even if you don't yet have a website, you can still use this service.
  • You can even filter different kinds of requests for appointments to different parts of your calendar.
  • How to set up and manage different appointment types.
  • Getting reminder emails for your appointments.
  • The monthly charges for the various services.
  • What you can get from Acuity Scheduling, absolutely free.
  • How you could give gift certificates via this service.
  • You can customise this service with your own logos.
  • Gavin explains how he initially came up with this service, to help his Mom.
  • The six-hour work days for Gavin's Customer Support teams.

If you'd like to try Acuity out, go to www.acuityscheduling.com/luann for an extended 45-day trial. (It's normally only for 14 days.)

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/acuityscheduling http://twitter.com/AcuitySchedulin   https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-zuchlinski-30b06885]]> 3099 no 240: Face Book Coaching Session #5 - How To Set Up & Manage a FB Group For Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/240-face-book-coaching-session-5-how-to-set-up-manage-a-fb-group-for-your-interior-design-business-with-marc-mawhinney Today's show is another in our Facebook Coaching Sessions Series, where we're tackling the various aspects of Facebook and how to best leverage them, for your Interior Design Firm. Today's guest is Marc Mawhinney and he is particularly skilled at working with Facebook Communities, so today, he will be discussing the best ways to go about setting these up and he also discusses the different nuances of Facebook Communities. At the end of the show, you will hear about the course that Marc is offering, called Facebook Gold. Listen in to find out more. Marc, a lifelong entrepreneur, is a Coach for Coaches. He does this through his programs, via his Podcast, Natural Born Coaches and also through his particularly successful Facebook Group, The Coaching Jungle. When LuAnn asked the peeps in her Podcast tribe about who is really good at creating Facebook Community Groups and Facebook Pages,  Marc was the man that everyone told her to invite. So, today, we are going to be finding out from him all about Consumer Facing Facebook Groups, where you would be helping and teaching consumers about Interior Design, hopefully with the end result that they would hire you, to be their Interior Designer. Listen in now, as Marc explains some great strategies for setting up a really vibrant Facebook Group. Show highlights: Marc uses a great analogy to clear up some of the confusion around the differences between Facebook Business Pages, Facebook Group Pages, Facebook Fan Pages and Facebook Public Pages. How Marc's personal Facebook profile has changed since Facebook has become his business. A Facebook Group as really a great way to build your business. Why size isn't everything, with a Facebook Group. What Marc would do to build a community for a brick and mortar Interior Design business. Setting up your Facebook Group and making sure that you have the right keywords in the title. How often you need to show up, in your Facebook Group. The most powerful kinds of Facebook Groups. Why monetizing your Facebook Group, or your Podcast, is really the way to go. Some great tips for starting a Facebook Group. The three choices that you will have when starting your Facebook Group. When a Secret Facebook Group would be an appropriate choice. When a Closed Group would be a good idea. Setting up the rules for your Group. Giving great value on your Facebook Group. Why Marc has Promotion Fridays in his Group. Why Marc suggests having Theme Days, on your Facebook Group. How to let people know about your Facebook Group, if you're starting from scratch and how to get people to engage with you, once your Group has been set up. Why you shouldn't just add people to your Group, without asking them. You can access Marc's Facebook Gold Course, to help you set up your own Facebook Group, through windowworks-nj.com/facebookgold. (It has a 60-day money back guarantee.)  Links: Marc's Facebook Group: www.theccoachinjungle.com His Email: marc@naturalborncoaches.com His website: http://www.naturalborncoaches.com Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's show is another in our Facebook Coaching Sessions Series, where we're tackling the various aspects of Facebook and how to best leverage them, for your Interior Design Firm. Today's guest is Marc Mawhinney and he is particularly skilled at... Today's show is another in our Facebook Coaching Sessions Series, where we're tackling the various aspects of Facebook and how to best leverage them, for your Interior Design Firm. Today's guest is Marc Mawhinney and he is particularly skilled at working with Facebook Communities, so today, he will be discussing the best ways to go about setting these up and he also discusses the different nuances of Facebook Communities. At the end of the show, you will hear about the course that Marc is offering, called Facebook Gold. Listen in to find out more. Marc, a lifelong entrepreneur, is a Coach for Coaches. He does this through his programs, via his Podcast, Natural Born Coaches and also through his particularly successful Facebook Group, The Coaching Jungle. When LuAnn asked the peeps in her Podcast tribe about who is really good at creating Facebook Community Groups and Facebook Pages,  Marc was the man that everyone told her to invite. So, today, we are going to be finding out from him all about Consumer Facing Facebook Groups, where you would be helping and teaching consumers about Interior Design, hopefully with the end result that they would hire you, to be their Interior Designer. Listen in now, as Marc explains some great strategies for setting up a really vibrant Facebook Group. Show highlights: Marc uses a great analogy to clear up some of the confusion around the differences between Facebook Business Pages, Facebook Group Pages, Facebook Fan Pages and Facebook Public Pages. How Marc's personal Facebook profile has changed since Facebook has become his business. A Facebook Group as really a great way to build your business. Why size isn't everything, with a Facebook Group. What Marc would do to build a community for a brick and mortar Interior Design business. Setting up your Facebook Group and making sure that you have the right keywords in the title. How often you need to show up, in your Facebook Group. The most powerful kinds of Facebook Groups. Why monetizing your Facebook Group, or your Podcast, is really the way to go. Some great tips for starting a Facebook Group. The three choices that you will have when starting your Facebook Group. When a Secret Facebook Group would be an appropriate choice. When a Closed Group would be a good idea. Setting up the rules for your Group. Giving great value on your Facebook Group. Why Marc has Promotion Fridays in his Group. Why Marc suggests having Theme Days, on your Facebook Group. How to let people know about your Facebook Group, if you're starting from scratch and how to get people to engage with you, once your Group has been set up. Why you shouldn't just add people to your Group, without asking them. You can access Marc's Facebook Gold Course, to help you set up your own Facebook Group, through windowworks-nj.com/facebookgold. (It has a 60-day money back guarantee.)  Links: Marc's Facebook Group: www.theccoachinjungle.com His Email: marc@naturalborncoaches.com His website: http://www.naturalborncoaches.com Today's show is another in our Facebook Coaching Sessions Series, where we're tackling the various aspects of Facebook and how to best leverage them, for your Interior Design Firm.

Today's guest is Marc Mawhinney and he is particularly skilled at working with Facebook Communities, so today, he will be discussing the best ways to go about setting these up and he also discusses the different nuances of Facebook Communities. At the end of the show, you will hear about the course that Marc is offering, called Facebook Gold. Listen in to find out more.

Marc, a lifelong entrepreneur, is a Coach for Coaches. He does this through his programs, via his Podcast, Natural Born Coaches and also through his particularly successful Facebook Group, The Coaching Jungle. When LuAnn asked the peeps in her Podcast tribe about who is really good at creating Facebook Community Groups and Facebook Pages,  Marc was the man that everyone told her to invite. So, today, we are going to be finding out from him all about Consumer Facing Facebook Groups, where you would be helping and teaching consumers about Interior Design, hopefully with the end result that they would hire you, to be their Interior Designer. Listen in now, as Marc explains some great strategies for setting up a really vibrant Facebook Group.

Show highlights:

  • Marc uses a great analogy to clear up some of the confusion around the differences between Facebook Business Pages, Facebook Group Pages, Facebook Fan Pages and Facebook Public Pages.
  • How Marc's personal Facebook profile has changed since Facebook has become his business.
  • A Facebook Group as really a great way to build your business.
  • Why size isn't everything, with a Facebook Group.
  • What Marc would do to build a community for a brick and mortar Interior Design business.
  • Setting up your Facebook Group and making sure that you have the right keywords in the title.
  • How often you need to show up, in your Facebook Group.
  • The most powerful kinds of Facebook Groups.
  • Why monetizing your Facebook Group, or your Podcast, is really the way to go.
  • Some great tips for starting a Facebook Group.
  • The three choices that you will have when starting your Facebook Group.
  • When a Secret Facebook Group would be an appropriate choice.
  • When a Closed Group would be a good idea.
  • Setting up the rules for your Group.
  • Giving great value on your Facebook Group.
  • Why Marc has Promotion Fridays in his Group.
  • Why Marc suggests having Theme Days, on your Facebook Group.
  • How to let people know about your Facebook Group, if you're starting from scratch and how to get people to engage with you, once your Group has been set up.
  • Why you shouldn't just add people to your Group, without asking them.
  • You can access Marc's Facebook Gold Course, to help you set up your own Facebook Group, through windowworks-nj.com/facebookgold. (It has a 60-day money back guarantee.)

 Links:

Marc's Facebook Group: www.theccoachinjungle.com

His Email: marc@naturalborncoaches.com

His website: http://www.naturalborncoaches.com]]> 2703 no 239: Katharine Earnhardt - How to Advise Your Clients on Art http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/239-katherine-earnhardt-how-to-advise-your-clients-on-art Today we have Katharine Earnhardt on the show! She's the Founder of Mason Lane Art Advisory, a Brooklyn-based company that styles walls with art and objects to fit client's taste, space and budget.  Keeping up with the art world inventory, resources and pricing is a full-time job, and Katharine explains how designers can get support in this area so they can appropriately source and pitch the right art to clients.  Katharine has a B.A. in Art History and Economics from Williams College and an M.A. in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute. Katharine has experience working in the Management office of the Museum of Modern Art, in business development at Christie's, and leading the business development team at a international art appraisal and advisory firm, Gurr Johns. Katharine is well versed in Art History and art market dynamics and works with designers through by straight referrals as well as through her trade program called Mason Lane Partners (MLP).   Listen in to find out more about the kind of assistance that Katharine offers to Interior Designers through her boutique art advisory service.  Show highlights: Katharine talks about her company's Interior Design Forum, called In The Maoson, that she hosts in her living room. It’s a really great networking opportunity! The pain points around buying art, that Katharine helps and educates Interior Designers and her clients with. How Katharine helps people to spend wisely when buying art. The aspects of art that go beyond the aesthetics, which can really add to the quality of the piece and also to how one feels about the work. The value in educating your client about the meaning behind an artwork and what drives price.  Sometimes a client doesn’t need new art, they could just rearrange, or re-frame what they already have. The ideal height to hang your artworks- a great place to start! Katharine’s upcoming Webisode, where she goes through the kinds of problems that Designers tend to face when advising their clients about art. Go to masonlaneart.com to sign up. Why Katharine created her Webisode. Some great tips for you, from Katharine’s Webisode. The best places for you, as Designers, to source art. Some great online resources for art. What you will get from working with Mason Lane. How Mason Lane's services save Interior Designers money and time.   A really fun rule, around the use of color, form, and design. Coordinating the light fixtures with the art. A frame can really make or break a piece of art! Some tips for creating professional-looking gallery walls- they really take a lot of planning. Links: Katharine’s website: http://www.masonlaneart.com Katharine on Instagram: masonlane_art.      Mon, 02 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Katharine Earnhardt on the show! She's the Founder of Mason Lane Art Advisory, a Brooklyn-based company that styles walls with art and objects to fit client's taste, space and budget.  Keeping up with the art world inventory,... Today we have Katharine Earnhardt on the show! She's the Founder of Mason Lane Art Advisory, a Brooklyn-based company that styles walls with art and objects to fit client's taste, space and budget.  Keeping up with the art world inventory, resources and pricing is a full-time job, and Katharine explains how designers can get support in this area so they can appropriately source and pitch the right art to clients.  Katharine has a B.A. in Art History and Economics from Williams College and an M.A. in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute. Katharine has experience working in the Management office of the Museum of Modern Art, in business development at Christie's, and leading the business development team at a international art appraisal and advisory firm, Gurr Johns. Katharine is well versed in Art History and art market dynamics and works with designers through by straight referrals as well as through her trade program called Mason Lane Partners (MLP).   Listen in to find out more about the kind of assistance that Katharine offers to Interior Designers through her boutique art advisory service.  Show highlights: Katharine talks about her company's Interior Design Forum, called In The Maoson, that she hosts in her living room. It’s a really great networking opportunity! The pain points around buying art, that Katharine helps and educates Interior Designers and her clients with. How Katharine helps people to spend wisely when buying art. The aspects of art that go beyond the aesthetics, which can really add to the quality of the piece and also to how one feels about the work. The value in educating your client about the meaning behind an artwork and what drives price.  Sometimes a client doesn’t need new art, they could just rearrange, or re-frame what they already have. The ideal height to hang your artworks- a great place to start! Katharine’s upcoming Webisode, where she goes through the kinds of problems that Designers tend to face when advising their clients about art. Go to masonlaneart.com to sign up. Why Katharine created her Webisode. Some great tips for you, from Katharine’s Webisode. The best places for you, as Designers, to source art. Some great online resources for art. What you will get from working with Mason Lane. How Mason Lane's services save Interior Designers money and time.   A really fun rule, around the use of color, form, and design. Coordinating the light fixtures with the art. A frame can really make or break a piece of art! Some tips for creating professional-looking gallery walls- they really take a lot of planning. Links: Katharine’s website: http://www.masonlaneart.com Katharine on Instagram: masonlane_art.      Today we have Katharine Earnhardt on the show! She's the Founder of Mason Lane Art Advisory, a Brooklyn-based company that styles walls with art and objects to fit client's taste, space and budget. 

Keeping up with the art world inventory, resources and pricing is a full-time job, and Katharine explains how designers can get support in this area so they can appropriately source and pitch the right art to clients. 

Katharine has a B.A. in Art History and Economics from Williams College and an M.A. in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute. Katharine has experience working in the Management office of the Museum of Modern Art, in business development at Christie's, and leading the business development team at a international art appraisal and advisory firm, Gurr Johns. Katharine is well versed in Art History and art market dynamics and works with designers through by straight referrals as well as through her trade program called Mason Lane Partners (MLP).  

Listen in to find out more about the kind of assistance that Katharine offers to Interior Designers through her boutique art advisory service. 

Show highlights:

  • Katharine talks about her company's Interior Design Forum, called In The Maoson, that she hosts in her living room. It’s a really great networking opportunity!
  • The pain points around buying art, that Katharine helps and educates Interior Designers and her clients with.
  • How Katharine helps people to spend wisely when buying art.
  • The aspects of art that go beyond the aesthetics, which can really add to the quality of the piece and also to how one feels about the work.
  • The value in educating your client about the meaning behind an artwork and what drives price. 
  • Sometimes a client doesn’t need new art, they could just rearrange, or re-frame what they already have.
  • The ideal height to hang your artworks- a great place to start!
  • Katharine’s upcoming Webisode, where she goes through the kinds of problems that Designers tend to face when advising their clients about art. Go to masonlaneart.com to sign up.
  • Why Katharine created her Webisode.
  • Some great tips for you, from Katharine’s Webisode.
  • The best places for you, as Designers, to source art.
  • Some great online resources for art.
  • What you will get from working with Mason Lane.
  • How Mason Lane's services save Interior Designers money and time.  
  • A really fun rule, around the use of color, form, and design.
  • Coordinating the light fixtures with the art.
  • A frame can really make or break a piece of art!
  • Some tips for creating professional-looking gallery walls- they really take a lot of planning.

Links:

Katharine’s website: http://www.masonlaneart.com

Katharine on Instagram: masonlane_art.   

 

]]> 3918 no 238: Power Talk Friday - Stephan Spencer - How To Build Traffic to Your Interior Design Website http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/238-power-talk-friday-stephan-spencer-how-to-build-traffic-to-your-interior-design-website Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is very excited to introduce Stephan Spencer, who she spent a short time with,  just a couple of weeks ago at the chaotic, yet exhilarating Podcast Movement in Anaheim. LuAnn and Stephan first met in a Mastermind about the future of podcasting, which was given by LuAnn's friend, Edie Burke. When Stephan placed a copy of his (really thick) book on the table, LuAnn didn't think she would ever be able to understand any of it and that really made her want to get to know what goes on in his brain. She's been looking forward to having him on the show ever since then, so listen in now! Stephan is an SEO expert and a best-selling author who has written has three books, all published by O'Reilly. They are The Art Of SEO, Social E-Commerce, and Google Power Search. In 1995, Stephan founded a multi-national SEO Agency, called Net Concepts, which he sold in 2010. His client list includes Zappos, Sony, Quicksilver, and Chanel.  He also has two Podcasts, the one is called The Optimised Geek and the other is Marketing Speak. Today Stephan answers some of LuAnn's questions, which are related to SEO and to Stephan, as both a Podcast Host and a seasoned Podcast Guest. He also talks about his Podcast, The Optimised Geek, where he spends time speaking to people about how to improve their health and their wealth and also about how to reboot their lives. Listen in now, to find out more about Stephan, his Podcasts, and SEO and also to get some really actionable tips. Show highlights: Stephan shares his really inspiring story about Tony Robbins, who became a catalyst for Stephan's own 'life reboot'. What Stephan gained from having been part of Tony Robbins's amazing Platinum Partnership, for three years. Stephan explains what SEO does and why it really matters. Some of the ways that you can enhance your SEO, to really stand out from the rest. Google will reward you for having really remarkable content in your website. What Stephan needed to do, in terms of SEO, in order to appear on TV. Using a dog to create a hook, to increase the emotional content of a TV segment. Stephan explains the kind of 'R and D' that he does, in order to find inspiration for the very best content. Using BuzzFeed to inspire you. How to create the kinds of connections that will become 'the rising tide that lifts all boats'. The two processes that Stephan does in tandem, to help him with the discovery of the amazing content that he's created. Who Google sees as the really big influencers. (Stephan calls them the Linkeratti!) Pitchbox- a tool that Stephan uses regularly. Identifying the content that's linked to the influencers- these will all be powerful links for you to use. Writing authentic blog posts that are actually geared towards the big influencers. Creating a really solid pitch, with a great hook. Pinterest- it has way more staying power than Instagram does. Why Google hates guest posts and guest bloggers. A great tool to see if what you're thinking of targeting, is actually going to be a popular keyword, or not. (moz.com/explorer) The services that Stephan has to offer. You can contact him at stephanspencer.com Links: His email: stephan@stephanspencer.com Fri, 29 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is very excited to introduce Stephan Spencer, who she spent a short time with,  just a couple of weeks ago at the chaotic, yet exhilarating Podcast Movement in Anaheim. LuAnn and Stephan... Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is very excited to introduce Stephan Spencer, who she spent a short time with,  just a couple of weeks ago at the chaotic, yet exhilarating Podcast Movement in Anaheim. LuAnn and Stephan first met in a Mastermind about the future of podcasting, which was given by LuAnn's friend, Edie Burke. When Stephan placed a copy of his (really thick) book on the table, LuAnn didn't think she would ever be able to understand any of it and that really made her want to get to know what goes on in his brain. She's been looking forward to having him on the show ever since then, so listen in now! Stephan is an SEO expert and a best-selling author who has written has three books, all published by O'Reilly. They are The Art Of SEO, Social E-Commerce, and Google Power Search. In 1995, Stephan founded a multi-national SEO Agency, called Net Concepts, which he sold in 2010. His client list includes Zappos, Sony, Quicksilver, and Chanel.  He also has two Podcasts, the one is called The Optimised Geek and the other is Marketing Speak. Today Stephan answers some of LuAnn's questions, which are related to SEO and to Stephan, as both a Podcast Host and a seasoned Podcast Guest. He also talks about his Podcast, The Optimised Geek, where he spends time speaking to people about how to improve their health and their wealth and also about how to reboot their lives. Listen in now, to find out more about Stephan, his Podcasts, and SEO and also to get some really actionable tips. Show highlights: Stephan shares his really inspiring story about Tony Robbins, who became a catalyst for Stephan's own 'life reboot'. What Stephan gained from having been part of Tony Robbins's amazing Platinum Partnership, for three years. Stephan explains what SEO does and why it really matters. Some of the ways that you can enhance your SEO, to really stand out from the rest. Google will reward you for having really remarkable content in your website. What Stephan needed to do, in terms of SEO, in order to appear on TV. Using a dog to create a hook, to increase the emotional content of a TV segment. Stephan explains the kind of 'R and D' that he does, in order to find inspiration for the very best content. Using BuzzFeed to inspire you. How to create the kinds of connections that will become 'the rising tide that lifts all boats'. The two processes that Stephan does in tandem, to help him with the discovery of the amazing content that he's created. Who Google sees as the really big influencers. (Stephan calls them the Linkeratti!) Pitchbox- a tool that Stephan uses regularly. Identifying the content that's linked to the influencers- these will all be powerful links for you to use. Writing authentic blog posts that are actually geared towards the big influencers. Creating a really solid pitch, with a great hook. Pinterest- it has way more staying power than Instagram does. Why Google hates guest posts and guest bloggers. A great tool to see if what you're thinking of targeting, is actually going to be a popular keyword, or not. (moz.com/explorer) The services that Stephan has to offer. You can contact him at stephanspencer.com Links: His email: stephan@stephanspencer.com Welcome to today's episode of Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is very excited to introduce Stephan Spencer, who she spent a short time with,  just a couple of weeks ago at the chaotic, yet exhilarating Podcast Movement in Anaheim. LuAnn and Stephan first met in a Mastermind about the future of podcasting, which was given by LuAnn's friend, Edie Burke. When Stephan placed a copy of his (really thick) book on the table, LuAnn didn't think she would ever be able to understand any of it and that really made her want to get to know what goes on in his brain. She's been looking forward to having him on the show ever since then, so listen in now!

Stephan is an SEO expert and a best-selling author who has written has three books, all published by O'Reilly. They are The Art Of SEO, Social E-Commerce, and Google Power Search. In 1995, Stephan founded a multi-national SEO Agency, called Net Concepts, which he sold in 2010. His client list includes Zappos, Sony, Quicksilver, and Chanel.  He also has two Podcasts, the one is called The Optimised Geek and the other is Marketing Speak. Today Stephan answers some of LuAnn's questions, which are related to SEO and to Stephan, as both a Podcast Host and a seasoned Podcast Guest. He also talks about his Podcast, The Optimised Geek, where he spends time speaking to people about how to improve their health and their wealth and also about how to reboot their lives. Listen in now, to find out more about Stephan, his Podcasts, and SEO and also to get some really actionable tips.

Show highlights:

  • Stephan shares his really inspiring story about Tony Robbins, who became a catalyst for Stephan's own 'life reboot'.
  • What Stephan gained from having been part of Tony Robbins's amazing Platinum Partnership, for three years.
  • Stephan explains what SEO does and why it really matters.
  • Some of the ways that you can enhance your SEO, to really stand out from the rest.
  • Google will reward you for having really remarkable content in your website.
  • What Stephan needed to do, in terms of SEO, in order to appear on TV.
  • Using a dog to create a hook, to increase the emotional content of a TV segment.
  • Stephan explains the kind of 'R and D' that he does, in order to find inspiration for the very best content.
  • Using BuzzFeed to inspire you.
  • How to create the kinds of connections that will become 'the rising tide that lifts all boats'.
  • The two processes that Stephan does in tandem, to help him with the discovery of the amazing content that he's created.
  • Who Google sees as the really big influencers. (Stephan calls them the Linkeratti!)
  • Pitchbox- a tool that Stephan uses regularly.
  • Identifying the content that's linked to the influencers- these will all be powerful links for you to use.
  • Writing authentic blog posts that are actually geared towards the big influencers.
  • Creating a really solid pitch, with a great hook.
  • Pinterest- it has way more staying power than Instagram does.
  • Why Google hates guest posts and guest bloggers.
  • A great tool to see if what you're thinking of targeting, is actually going to be a popular keyword, or not. (moz.com/explorer)
  • The services that Stephan has to offer. You can contact him at stephanspencer.com

Links:

His email: stephan@stephanspencer.com]]> 4245 no 237: Claire Jefford- How To Get More Clients With Video Content http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/237-claire-jefford-how-to-get-more-clients-with-video-content Today we have Claire Jefford on the show! LuAnn knows that hundreds of the Interior Designers that are in the three different Facebook Groups she's in are really cheering like crazy now because they all know Claire from her Design and also from her inspiring leadership, so listen in to find out more! Claire came into Interior Design in 2011, after a career in Human Resources and People Management. She found her way to Interior Design and then started her own firm. Her really exceptional organizational skills, combined with her drive, have contributed to the great success of her business, which is still fairly young. Now, in addition to Interior Design, Claire offers Coaching where she teaches other Designers to replicate her success. Although Claire has done some really great things in her career, today we will try to focus on a particular super power of hers- creating quality video content for her Design firm.  Her videos have a big part to play the success of both her firm and her Coaching business, so listen in now, as Claire shares some of her best tips for creating really professional video content, on today's show. Show highlights: Claire's incredible level of interaction, leadership, and expertise, on her Facebook Group, Interior Design Business Strategies. What Claire's career in Human Resources involved and how it's informed her career in Interior Design. Claire explains how she manages to produce her really professional looking videos- all by herself! The difference between doing a Facebook Live and doing a Youtube video. The importance of having a plan, ahead of time, for your video. How and where Claire uses her videos on the services she offers. People really relate to them. Claire explains some of the technical aspects of how she makes her videos. You really don't need a fancy setup to make professional looking videos if you're using a smartphone. If the content is good, people are going to watch, even if you don't look your best. How Claire edits her videos and the software she uses to do that. The numerous things that you can do with the Camtasia App. Creating a moving video out of still pictures with Camtasia. How long it took for Claire to become adept at using Camtasia. It really isn't that complicated. How Claire cues herself when making her videos. How Claire manages to re-use her video content from Youtube to Facebook Live, Instagram, or even to send to a client. How to let people know where to find your videos. The benefits of not being perfect. The marketing value in producing a body of work on Youtube. Why you need to keep asking your clients for reviews for your videos. How Claire goes about asking her clients for reviews. Claire's great, actionable tips for new Designers who don't yet have a portfolio. All about Claire's soon to be launched a course on making videos. There will be a special launch price. The great resources available for those of you who are looking for more in-depth information from Claire, on how to market your business through video.  Links: Claire's website: www.clairejefford.com Wed, 27 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Claire Jefford on the show! LuAnn knows that hundreds of the Interior Designers that are in the three different Facebook Groups she's in are really cheering like crazy now because they all know Claire from her Design and also from her... Today we have Claire Jefford on the show! LuAnn knows that hundreds of the Interior Designers that are in the three different Facebook Groups she's in are really cheering like crazy now because they all know Claire from her Design and also from her inspiring leadership, so listen in to find out more! Claire came into Interior Design in 2011, after a career in Human Resources and People Management. She found her way to Interior Design and then started her own firm. Her really exceptional organizational skills, combined with her drive, have contributed to the great success of her business, which is still fairly young. Now, in addition to Interior Design, Claire offers Coaching where she teaches other Designers to replicate her success. Although Claire has done some really great things in her career, today we will try to focus on a particular super power of hers- creating quality video content for her Design firm.  Her videos have a big part to play the success of both her firm and her Coaching business, so listen in now, as Claire shares some of her best tips for creating really professional video content, on today's show. Show highlights: Claire's incredible level of interaction, leadership, and expertise, on her Facebook Group, Interior Design Business Strategies. What Claire's career in Human Resources involved and how it's informed her career in Interior Design. Claire explains how she manages to produce her really professional looking videos- all by herself! The difference between doing a Facebook Live and doing a Youtube video. The importance of having a plan, ahead of time, for your video. How and where Claire uses her videos on the services she offers. People really relate to them. Claire explains some of the technical aspects of how she makes her videos. You really don't need a fancy setup to make professional looking videos if you're using a smartphone. If the content is good, people are going to watch, even if you don't look your best. How Claire edits her videos and the software she uses to do that. The numerous things that you can do with the Camtasia App. Creating a moving video out of still pictures with Camtasia. How long it took for Claire to become adept at using Camtasia. It really isn't that complicated. How Claire cues herself when making her videos. How Claire manages to re-use her video content from Youtube to Facebook Live, Instagram, or even to send to a client. How to let people know where to find your videos. The benefits of not being perfect. The marketing value in producing a body of work on Youtube. Why you need to keep asking your clients for reviews for your videos. How Claire goes about asking her clients for reviews. Claire's great, actionable tips for new Designers who don't yet have a portfolio. All about Claire's soon to be launched a course on making videos. There will be a special launch price. The great resources available for those of you who are looking for more in-depth information from Claire, on how to market your business through video.  Links: Claire's website: www.clairejefford.com Today we have Claire Jefford on the show! LuAnn knows that hundreds of the Interior Designers that are in the three different Facebook Groups she's in are really cheering like crazy now because they all know Claire from her Design and also from her inspiring leadership, so listen in to find out more!

Claire came into Interior Design in 2011, after a career in Human Resources and People Management. She found her way to Interior Design and then started her own firm. Her really exceptional organizational skills, combined with her drive, have contributed to the great success of her business, which is still fairly young. Now, in addition to Interior Design, Claire offers Coaching where she teaches other Designers to replicate her success. Although Claire has done some really great things in her career, today we will try to focus on a particular super power of hers- creating quality video content for her Design firm.  Her videos have a big part to play the success of both her firm and her Coaching business, so listen in now, as Claire shares some of her best tips for creating really professional video content, on today's show.

Show highlights:

  • Claire's incredible level of interaction, leadership, and expertise, on her Facebook Group, Interior Design Business Strategies.
  • What Claire's career in Human Resources involved and how it's informed her career in Interior Design.
  • Claire explains how she manages to produce her really professional looking videos- all by herself!
  • The difference between doing a Facebook Live and doing a Youtube video.
  • The importance of having a plan, ahead of time, for your video.
  • How and where Claire uses her videos on the services she offers. People really relate to them.
  • Claire explains some of the technical aspects of how she makes her videos.
  • You really don't need a fancy setup to make professional looking videos if you're using a smartphone.
  • If the content is good, people are going to watch, even if you don't look your best.
  • How Claire edits her videos and the software she uses to do that.
  • The numerous things that you can do with the Camtasia App.
  • Creating a moving video out of still pictures with Camtasia.
  • How long it took for Claire to become adept at using Camtasia. It really isn't that complicated.
  • How Claire cues herself when making her videos.
  • How Claire manages to re-use her video content from Youtube to Facebook Live, Instagram, or even to send to a client.
  • How to let people know where to find your videos.
  • The benefits of not being perfect.
  • The marketing value in producing a body of work on Youtube.
  • Why you need to keep asking your clients for reviews for your videos.
  • How Claire goes about asking her clients for reviews.
  • Claire's great, actionable tips for new Designers who don't yet have a portfolio.
  • All about Claire's soon to be launched a course on making videos. There will be a special launch price.
  • The great resources available for those of you who are looking for more in-depth information from Claire, on how to market your business through video. 

Links:

Claire's website: www.clairejefford.com

]]> 4690 no 236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/236-shea-mcgee-of-studio-mcgee-joins-me-today LuAnn is extremely happy to let you know that she has Shea McGee, of Studio McGee, in the house today! It's been a long time coming, as she's a very busy lady, but she's here today, and you are not going to be disappointed, so listen in to find out about the journey that Shea's been on and the challenges she's faced. If you're one of the few people who are not familiar with Shea, LuAnn assures you that she and her husband, Sid, truly are the real deal! They are the creators of Studio McGee and today you will hear how Shea realized, only after obtaining her degree in Public Relations, that what she really wanted, was to be doing Design, so she went back to school, to learn how to do that. Soon after, Shea found that she was attracting more projects than she'd ever before thought possible. She and Sid realized that with his business experience and her creative vision, they would really make an amazing team. So they decided to sell their home in California and move to Utah, where they put all their life savings on the line and started a business. Shea used the power of Instagram to grow the business and now, just less than three years later, they have over five hundred and forty thousand Instagram followers, a team of thirty, two multi-million dollar businesses (Studio McGee and McGee and Company) and they have projects all over the country. Listen in today and find out how Shea and Sid manage to run their operation and their family and also, the pro's and con's of working with a spouse. Show highlights: Shea explains how they have managed to get such great results, in such a short time. How Shea and her husband manage their hectic work schedules and still find time to spend together, as a couple and to be parents to their two little girls. The growing pains that Shea and Sid experienced, early on in their business, before they found their ideal way of working together. The real importance of separating the roles of each spouse, in a business partnership. Why you really need to sort out your personal dynamics, as a couple, before entering into a business relationship. Some ways to create the necessary balance within your business. You don't have to do everything yourself! Ways to divide up the different responsibilities, within a business. Shea gives the backstory behind their really successful businesses. How Shea stretched her content, to tell her story on Instagram when she first started out. Why they made the move from California to Utah. Shea talks about the initial dream that she and her husband shared, for their business. Shea's advice for Designers wanting to step up above the noise, with Instagram. Some tips to take a good and well-styled photo- one that stands out from the rest, in order to create a really great vignette. How Shea creates her content for Instagram now, as compared with when she first started out. Shea explains her strategic way of growing her Instagram following. How Shea manages to keep up with the engagement on Instagram, with their really huge number of followers. Where Shea draws her design inspiration from.  Links: Shea's website: www.studio-mcgee.com Mon, 25 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara LuAnn is extremely happy to let you know that she has Shea McGee, of Studio McGee, in the house today! It's been a long time coming, as she's a very busy lady, but she's here today, and you are not going to be disappointed, so listen in to find out... LuAnn is extremely happy to let you know that she has Shea McGee, of Studio McGee, in the house today! It's been a long time coming, as she's a very busy lady, but she's here today, and you are not going to be disappointed, so listen in to find out about the journey that Shea's been on and the challenges she's faced. If you're one of the few people who are not familiar with Shea, LuAnn assures you that she and her husband, Sid, truly are the real deal! They are the creators of Studio McGee and today you will hear how Shea realized, only after obtaining her degree in Public Relations, that what she really wanted, was to be doing Design, so she went back to school, to learn how to do that. Soon after, Shea found that she was attracting more projects than she'd ever before thought possible. She and Sid realized that with his business experience and her creative vision, they would really make an amazing team. So they decided to sell their home in California and move to Utah, where they put all their life savings on the line and started a business. Shea used the power of Instagram to grow the business and now, just less than three years later, they have over five hundred and forty thousand Instagram followers, a team of thirty, two multi-million dollar businesses (Studio McGee and McGee and Company) and they have projects all over the country. Listen in today and find out how Shea and Sid manage to run their operation and their family and also, the pro's and con's of working with a spouse. Show highlights: Shea explains how they have managed to get such great results, in such a short time. How Shea and her husband manage their hectic work schedules and still find time to spend together, as a couple and to be parents to their two little girls. The growing pains that Shea and Sid experienced, early on in their business, before they found their ideal way of working together. The real importance of separating the roles of each spouse, in a business partnership. Why you really need to sort out your personal dynamics, as a couple, before entering into a business relationship. Some ways to create the necessary balance within your business. You don't have to do everything yourself! Ways to divide up the different responsibilities, within a business. Shea gives the backstory behind their really successful businesses. How Shea stretched her content, to tell her story on Instagram when she first started out. Why they made the move from California to Utah. Shea talks about the initial dream that she and her husband shared, for their business. Shea's advice for Designers wanting to step up above the noise, with Instagram. Some tips to take a good and well-styled photo- one that stands out from the rest, in order to create a really great vignette. How Shea creates her content for Instagram now, as compared with when she first started out. Shea explains her strategic way of growing her Instagram following. How Shea manages to keep up with the engagement on Instagram, with their really huge number of followers. Where Shea draws her design inspiration from.  Links: Shea's website: www.studio-mcgee.com LuAnn is extremely happy to let you know that she has Shea McGee, of Studio McGee, in the house today! It's been a long time coming, as she's a very busy lady, but she's here today, and you are not going to be disappointed, so listen in to find out about the journey that Shea's been on and the challenges she's faced.

If you're one of the few people who are not familiar with Shea, LuAnn assures you that she and her husband, Sid, truly are the real deal! They are the creators of Studio McGee and today you will hear how Shea realized, only after obtaining her degree in Public Relations, that what she really wanted, was to be doing Design, so she went back to school, to learn how to do that. Soon after, Shea found that she was attracting more projects than she'd ever before thought possible. She and Sid realized that with his business experience and her creative vision, they would really make an amazing team. So they decided to sell their home in California and move to Utah, where they put all their life savings on the line and started a business. Shea used the power of Instagram to grow the business and now, just less than three years later, they have over five hundred and forty thousand Instagram followers, a team of thirty, two multi-million dollar businesses (Studio McGee and McGee and Company) and they have projects all over the country. Listen in today and find out how Shea and Sid manage to run their operation and their family and also, the pro's and con's of working with a spouse.

Show highlights:

  • Shea explains how they have managed to get such great results, in such a short time.
  • How Shea and her husband manage their hectic work schedules and still find time to spend together, as a couple and to be parents to their two little girls.
  • The growing pains that Shea and Sid experienced, early on in their business, before they found their ideal way of working together.
  • The real importance of separating the roles of each spouse, in a business partnership.
  • Why you really need to sort out your personal dynamics, as a couple, before entering into a business relationship.
  • Some ways to create the necessary balance within your business. You don't have to do everything yourself!
  • Ways to divide up the different responsibilities, within a business.
  • Shea gives the backstory behind their really successful businesses.
  • How Shea stretched her content, to tell her story on Instagram when she first started out.
  • Why they made the move from California to Utah.
  • Shea talks about the initial dream that she and her husband shared, for their business.
  • Shea's advice for Designers wanting to step up above the noise, with Instagram.
  • Some tips to take a good and well-styled photo- one that stands out from the rest, in order to create a really great vignette.
  • How Shea creates her content for Instagram now, as compared with when she first started out.
  • Shea explains her strategic way of growing her Instagram following.
  • How Shea manages to keep up with the engagement on Instagram, with their really huge number of followers.
  • Where Shea draws her design inspiration from.

 Links:

Shea's website: www.studio-mcgee.com

]]> 4086 no 235: Power Talk Friday - Tabitha Carro: How To Create Creative Content Using Your Smart Phone http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/235-power-talk-friday-tabitha-carro-how-to-create-creative-content-using-your-smart-phone Welcome to today's episode of Power talk Friday! Tabitha Carro is the guest for today and she is the leader of Smart Phone Marketing School. LuAnn really struggles with so much of what it takes to be productive, in using a smartphone and she says she has ninety thumbs, so she's very excited about having Tabitha on this show today, to help her to figure some of this out. Listen in as Tabitha explains what to do, and apps that you can use, to add that extra little 'something' to your marketing, using your smartphone. Tabitha's background is as a Certified Elementary School Teacher. She was also the owner of a Curriculum Design Business, from which she developed another business when she realized that she really needed to be able to do things quickly and easily, from her iPhone. She took the bull by the horns and taught herself all the necessary design techniques with the iPhone and so developed her new business, called Smart Phone Marketing School. Now, she has tons of content, videos and tutorials, to teach the people in her Facebook and Membership communities how and what apps to use, on their iPhone, to make their social media marketing way, way easier. She teaches where things are in an app and how to tap into them and get what you want. Listen in now, as Tabitha sheds some light on how to use your smartphone to market your self really easily, even when you're on the fly! Show highlights: Tabitha explains all about the super cute and direct labeling app called This by Tin Rocket, which could be really useful in the Design Industry. Which apps Tabitha uses, on her iPhone as well as on her desktop. The best ways to utilize the Legend App, to announce across social media, that you're about to go live. Why what Tabitha teaches is great for everybody, even those that aren't so 'techy'. Why Tabitha really thinks you should care about Instagram stories. Facebook Live or Instagram Stories? When to use each one. How you can increase your engagement on Facebook Live with Instagram Stories. Apps that can really enhance your Instagram Stories. A way to put something on Instagram Stories, without showing yourself. If you have 10 000 or more followers, you can link that up with Instagram Stories. Some tips and great apps for using an iPhone with Pinterest. Tabitha has a blog post about this. Why Tabitha actually prefers using a phone screen, when working with Pinterest. Tabitha has a Facebook Live session to teach you how to use Adobe Spark on your phone. All the fabulous free content that Tabitha has made available for you. Tabitha's not all about selling, however, she is opening up a paid membership program. Links: For Tabitha's free courses, go to courses.tabithacarro.com Fri, 22 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to today's episode of Power talk Friday! Tabitha Carro is the guest for today and she is the leader of Smart Phone Marketing School. LuAnn really struggles with so much of what it takes to be productive, in using a smartphone and she says she... Welcome to today's episode of Power talk Friday! Tabitha Carro is the guest for today and she is the leader of Smart Phone Marketing School. LuAnn really struggles with so much of what it takes to be productive, in using a smartphone and she says she has ninety thumbs, so she's very excited about having Tabitha on this show today, to help her to figure some of this out. Listen in as Tabitha explains what to do, and apps that you can use, to add that extra little 'something' to your marketing, using your smartphone. Tabitha's background is as a Certified Elementary School Teacher. She was also the owner of a Curriculum Design Business, from which she developed another business when she realized that she really needed to be able to do things quickly and easily, from her iPhone. She took the bull by the horns and taught herself all the necessary design techniques with the iPhone and so developed her new business, called Smart Phone Marketing School. Now, she has tons of content, videos and tutorials, to teach the people in her Facebook and Membership communities how and what apps to use, on their iPhone, to make their social media marketing way, way easier. She teaches where things are in an app and how to tap into them and get what you want. Listen in now, as Tabitha sheds some light on how to use your smartphone to market your self really easily, even when you're on the fly! Show highlights: Tabitha explains all about the super cute and direct labeling app called This by Tin Rocket, which could be really useful in the Design Industry. Which apps Tabitha uses, on her iPhone as well as on her desktop. The best ways to utilize the Legend App, to announce across social media, that you're about to go live. Why what Tabitha teaches is great for everybody, even those that aren't so 'techy'. Why Tabitha really thinks you should care about Instagram stories. Facebook Live or Instagram Stories? When to use each one. How you can increase your engagement on Facebook Live with Instagram Stories. Apps that can really enhance your Instagram Stories. A way to put something on Instagram Stories, without showing yourself. If you have 10 000 or more followers, you can link that up with Instagram Stories. Some tips and great apps for using an iPhone with Pinterest. Tabitha has a blog post about this. Why Tabitha actually prefers using a phone screen, when working with Pinterest. Tabitha has a Facebook Live session to teach you how to use Adobe Spark on your phone. All the fabulous free content that Tabitha has made available for you. Tabitha's not all about selling, however, she is opening up a paid membership program. Links: For Tabitha's free courses, go to courses.tabithacarro.com Welcome to today's episode of Power talk Friday! Tabitha Carro is the guest for today and she is the leader of Smart Phone Marketing School. LuAnn really struggles with so much of what it takes to be productive, in using a smartphone and she says she has ninety thumbs, so she's very excited about having Tabitha on this show today, to help her to figure some of this out. Listen in as Tabitha explains what to do, and apps that you can use, to add that extra little 'something' to your marketing, using your smartphone.

Tabitha's background is as a Certified Elementary School Teacher. She was also the owner of a Curriculum Design Business, from which she developed another business when she realized that she really needed to be able to do things quickly and easily, from her iPhone. She took the bull by the horns and taught herself all the necessary design techniques with the iPhone and so developed her new business, called Smart Phone Marketing School. Now, she has tons of content, videos and tutorials, to teach the people in her Facebook and Membership communities how and what apps to use, on their iPhone, to make their social media marketing way, way easier. She teaches where things are in an app and how to tap into them and get what you want. Listen in now, as Tabitha sheds some light on how to use your smartphone to market your self really easily, even when you're on the fly!

Show highlights:

  • Tabitha explains all about the super cute and direct labeling app called This by Tin Rocket, which could be really useful in the Design Industry.
  • Which apps Tabitha uses, on her iPhone as well as on her desktop.
  • The best ways to utilize the Legend App, to announce across social media, that you're about to go live.
  • Why what Tabitha teaches is great for everybody, even those that aren't so 'techy'.
  • Why Tabitha really thinks you should care about Instagram stories.
  • Facebook Live or Instagram Stories? When to use each one.
  • How you can increase your engagement on Facebook Live with Instagram Stories.
  • Apps that can really enhance your Instagram Stories.
  • A way to put something on Instagram Stories, without showing yourself.
  • If you have 10 000 or more followers, you can link that up with Instagram Stories.
  • Some tips and great apps for using an iPhone with Pinterest. Tabitha has a blog post about this.
  • Why Tabitha actually prefers using a phone screen, when working with Pinterest.
  • Tabitha has a Facebook Live session to teach you how to use Adobe Spark on your phone.
  • All the fabulous free content that Tabitha has made available for you.
  • Tabitha's not all about selling, however, she is opening up a paid membership program.

Links:

For Tabitha's free courses, go to courses.tabithacarro.com

]]> 3964 no 234: Kimberley Kay Interiors: A New Designer & Her 1st 5 Months in Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/234-kimberley-kay-interiors-a-new-designer-her-1st-5-months-in-business What is your vision for your design business? How do you manage to balance work and life? Are you managing it, or has the business taken over your life? When you’re in the middle of the day-to-day of running a business, it can be easy to forget why you started in the first place. Whether it is creative freedom, income to support your family, or a dream that has finally taken flight, it is so important to keep the values you hold dear close at hand. This podcast is all about giving you tools that you can use to launch your design business. Today, I am thrilled to bring to you Kim Worswick, who has been in business for just five short months and is already operating close to her values. What’s her secret? This podcast! Kimberley Kay Interiors is Kim’s solo firm and boy has it taken off! Kim has a strong Instagram presence, where she films these great short videos that are zany, fun and full of personality and great design. Kim’s business is based on referrals so that she can ensure that she is only taking the right amount of projects at a time. Work-Life Balance is so important to Kim, so she has set up her business around that value. Today, we will share how Kim launched her business, sticks to her values, and overcomes mistakes and challenges as her business has grown. It is encouraging to hear how this podcast has changed Kim’s life, and I would love to hear from you too! Give this episode a listen, and then reach out to me to let me know the ways our guests have transformed your design business.   More from this episode: Kim talks about her crazy, zany Instagram videos. Take a little inspiration from Kim who used tools from the podcast to launch her business. Kim operates off of her 5 Key Values. Work-Life Balance is the basis for Kim’s business model. Using Interior Design as an act of community service. Growing a business only to the point where it fits within your lifestyle. Working underneath a lead designer was beneficial, but creatively stifling. Why a bookkeeper should be your first hire. Learning from mistakes and celebrating triumphs. Gaining customer loyalty by doing whatever it takes to get the design right. Links: www.kimberleykayinteriors.com   https://www.instagram.com/kimberleykayinteriors/   https://www.facebook.com/kimberleykayinteriors/ Wed, 20 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara What is your vision for your design business? How do you manage to balance work and life? Are you managing it, or has the business taken over your life? When you’re in the middle of the day-to-day of running a business, it can be easy to forget why... What is your vision for your design business? How do you manage to balance work and life? Are you managing it, or has the business taken over your life? When you’re in the middle of the day-to-day of running a business, it can be easy to forget why you started in the first place. Whether it is creative freedom, income to support your family, or a dream that has finally taken flight, it is so important to keep the values you hold dear close at hand. This podcast is all about giving you tools that you can use to launch your design business. Today, I am thrilled to bring to you Kim Worswick, who has been in business for just five short months and is already operating close to her values. What’s her secret? This podcast! Kimberley Kay Interiors is Kim’s solo firm and boy has it taken off! Kim has a strong Instagram presence, where she films these great short videos that are zany, fun and full of personality and great design. Kim’s business is based on referrals so that she can ensure that she is only taking the right amount of projects at a time. Work-Life Balance is so important to Kim, so she has set up her business around that value. Today, we will share how Kim launched her business, sticks to her values, and overcomes mistakes and challenges as her business has grown. It is encouraging to hear how this podcast has changed Kim’s life, and I would love to hear from you too! Give this episode a listen, and then reach out to me to let me know the ways our guests have transformed your design business.   More from this episode: Kim talks about her crazy, zany Instagram videos. Take a little inspiration from Kim who used tools from the podcast to launch her business. Kim operates off of her 5 Key Values. Work-Life Balance is the basis for Kim’s business model. Using Interior Design as an act of community service. Growing a business only to the point where it fits within your lifestyle. Working underneath a lead designer was beneficial, but creatively stifling. Why a bookkeeper should be your first hire. Learning from mistakes and celebrating triumphs. Gaining customer loyalty by doing whatever it takes to get the design right. Links: www.kimberleykayinteriors.com   https://www.instagram.com/kimberleykayinteriors/   https://www.facebook.com/kimberleykayinteriors/ What is your vision for your design business? How do you manage to balance work and life? Are you managing it, or has the business taken over your life? When you’re in the middle of the day-to-day of running a business, it can be easy to forget why you started in the first place. Whether it is creative freedom, income to support your family, or a dream that has finally taken flight, it is so important to keep the values you hold dear close at hand. This podcast is all about giving you tools that you can use to launch your design business. Today, I am thrilled to bring to you Kim Worswick, who has been in business for just five short months and is already operating close to her values. What’s her secret? This podcast!

Kimberley Kay Interiors is Kim’s solo firm and boy has it taken off! Kim has a strong Instagram presence, where she films these great short videos that are zany, fun and full of personality and great design. Kim’s business is based on referrals so that she can ensure that she is only taking the right amount of projects at a time. Work-Life Balance is so important to Kim, so she has set up her business around that value. Today, we will share how Kim launched her business, sticks to her values, and overcomes mistakes and challenges as her business has grown. It is encouraging to hear how this podcast has changed Kim’s life, and I would love to hear from you too! Give this episode a listen, and then reach out to me to let me know the ways our guests have transformed your design business.

 

More from this episode:

  • Kim talks about her crazy, zany Instagram videos.
  • Take a little inspiration from Kim who used tools from the podcast to launch her business.
  • Kim operates off of her 5 Key Values.
  • Work-Life Balance is the basis for Kim’s business model.
  • Using Interior Design as an act of community service.
  • Growing a business only to the point where it fits within your lifestyle.
  • Working underneath a lead designer was beneficial, but creatively stifling.
  • Why a bookkeeper should be your first hire.
  • Learning from mistakes and celebrating triumphs.
  • Gaining customer loyalty by doing whatever it takes to get the design right.

Links:

www.kimberleykayinteriors.com   https://www.instagram.com/kimberleykayinteriors/   https://www.facebook.com/kimberleykayinteriors/]]> 3492 no 233: Design Biz Live - Do this Self-Assessment of Your Skills http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/233-design-biz-live-do-this-self-assessment-of-your-skills We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm. Let’s jump into this conversation! Show highlights: Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration Debunking the “ideal client” myth Why you need to get clear on what you do really well A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment: What am I most efficient at? How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at? Look for opportunities to improve your skill set Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees Segmenting your services in each distinct phase How the designer controls “the process” Setting the project and the team up for success How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome How to have the difficult conversations with employees “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?” The “show-tell-do” and feedback process Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure Links: Visit www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2 to download the self-assessment! Mon, 18 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio,... We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm. Let’s jump into this conversation! Show highlights: Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration Debunking the “ideal client” myth Why you need to get clear on what you do really well A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment: What am I most efficient at? How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at? Look for opportunities to improve your skill set Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees Segmenting your services in each distinct phase How the designer controls “the process” Setting the project and the team up for success How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome How to have the difficult conversations with employees “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?” The “show-tell-do” and feedback process Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure Links: Visit www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2 to download the self-assessment! We are back together for another installment of Design Biz Live, in spite of all the obstacles and scheduling conflicts we’ve had to overcome to make it happen! I’m back with my trusted experts, Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio, and Corey Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors. One of our goals is to cover all aspects of the flat fee vs. hourly rate question that designers face. What we have discovered is that there is a more basic issue at stake that we must turn our attention to first. The issue is that YOU, as a designer, need to know what you are and are not most efficient at in your business. In other words, you need to break down the work of a designer into your personal strengths and weaknesses. Corey and Judith have developed a self-assessment for principals to use in evaluating all the different things we do for our clients. As industry leaders, Judith and Corey have spent a lot of time speaking in front of their peers, and they have developed this tool with the purpose of evaluating your skills as they relate to your design firm. Let’s jump into this conversation!

Show highlights:

  • Gear your services toward your skill set according to the self-assessment
  • How Judith and Corey got the idea for developing this helpful tool
  • The three phases of the assessment: concept, execution, and administration
  • Debunking the “ideal client” myth
  • Why you need to get clear on what you do really well
  • A basic fundamental that a designer must figure out via the self-assessment:
    • What am I most efficient at?
    • How can I fill in the gaps that I’m not best at?
  • Look for opportunities to improve your skill set
  • Your business evolves and grows as a living, breathing entity
  • The relationship between your strengths and weaknesses and the question of flat fee vs. hourly rates
  • For the client, services needed in each of the three phases and their associated fees
  • Segmenting your services in each distinct phase
  • How the designer controls “the process”
  • Setting the project and the team up for success
  • How designers get into trouble when they tackle things they aren’t good at
  • How Corey graphed his and his employees’ strengths of skill and how the result measured up to their perceptions
  • When you as the business owner-need to change the outcome
  • How to have the difficult conversations with employees
  • “Am I interested in rehabilitating this employee or do I want them to leave my firm?”
  • The “show-tell-do” and feedback process
  • Reach out to get an honest evaluation of your performance as a designer
  • How to ask questions to former clients for feedback about your fee structure

Links:

Visit www.windowworks-nj.com/designbiz2 to download the self-assessment!

]]> 3021 no 232: Power Talk Friday - John Ruhlin: The Art & Science of Creating Powerful Relationships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/232-john-ruhlin-the-art-science-of-creating-powerful-relationships Today we are in for an incredible treat. John Rhulin is the founder of the Ruhlin Group, a powerhouse company that helps high-end firms reach their audience, maintain customers, and gain referrals through Gift-Giving. John has roots as a salesman, but by seeking opportunity, reaching for excellence, and learning the huge value of gratitude, John has created a Group with high-end clients such as the Chicago Cubs and Electrolux.  With such huge clients, it might seem like a stretch to think that John has wisdom for you and your design business. Well, that simply isn’t true! The elegant principles of good gift-giving are universal, and they will help you win referrals and maintain clients. The secret is in the gift itself: personal, unexpected, and filled with authenticity. Today, you will learn what gifts to give, when to give, and how to keep your clients close at hand. It’s time to stretch those generosity muscles and make someone’s day. Winning clients and growing your business is really as easy as that! Show highlights: John shares his first selling experiences with Cutco that shaped his business acumen. Building a company around gratitude. Hear John’s incredible story about the Brooks Brothers. John has unparalleled employee relationships to change the way they do service. John’s advice to small business owners who are trying to gift their customers well. The best gift John has ever received. Re-defining the way that we treat our customers. Make referrals happen by taking care of the “inner circle.”  Links: Follow the link for John’s gift to our listeners! 10 Gifts to Avoid Giving.   http://giftologybook.com/design/ Pick up your copy of Giftology by John Ruhlin http://ruhlingroup.com/ Fri, 15 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we are in for an incredible treat. John Rhulin is the founder of the Ruhlin Group, a powerhouse company that helps high-end firms reach their audience, maintain customers, and gain referrals through Gift-Giving. John has roots as a salesman, but... Today we are in for an incredible treat. John Rhulin is the founder of the Ruhlin Group, a powerhouse company that helps high-end firms reach their audience, maintain customers, and gain referrals through Gift-Giving. John has roots as a salesman, but by seeking opportunity, reaching for excellence, and learning the huge value of gratitude, John has created a Group with high-end clients such as the Chicago Cubs and Electrolux.  With such huge clients, it might seem like a stretch to think that John has wisdom for you and your design business. Well, that simply isn’t true! The elegant principles of good gift-giving are universal, and they will help you win referrals and maintain clients. The secret is in the gift itself: personal, unexpected, and filled with authenticity. Today, you will learn what gifts to give, when to give, and how to keep your clients close at hand. It’s time to stretch those generosity muscles and make someone’s day. Winning clients and growing your business is really as easy as that! Show highlights: John shares his first selling experiences with Cutco that shaped his business acumen. Building a company around gratitude. Hear John’s incredible story about the Brooks Brothers. John has unparalleled employee relationships to change the way they do service. John’s advice to small business owners who are trying to gift their customers well. The best gift John has ever received. Re-defining the way that we treat our customers. Make referrals happen by taking care of the “inner circle.”  Links: Follow the link for John’s gift to our listeners! 10 Gifts to Avoid Giving.   http://giftologybook.com/design/ Pick up your copy of Giftology by John Ruhlin http://ruhlingroup.com/ Today we are in for an incredible treat. John Rhulin is the founder of the Ruhlin Group, a powerhouse company that helps high-end firms reach their audience, maintain customers, and gain referrals through Gift-Giving. John has roots as a salesman, but by seeking opportunity, reaching for excellence, and learning the huge value of gratitude, John has created a Group with high-end clients such as the Chicago Cubs and Electrolux. 

With such huge clients, it might seem like a stretch to think that John has wisdom for you and your design business. Well, that simply isn’t true! The elegant principles of good gift-giving are universal, and they will help you win referrals and maintain clients. The secret is in the gift itself: personal, unexpected, and filled with authenticity. Today, you will learn what gifts to give, when to give, and how to keep your clients close at hand. It’s time to stretch those generosity muscles and make someone’s day. Winning clients and growing your business is really as easy as that!

Show highlights:

  • John shares his first selling experiences with Cutco that shaped his business acumen.
  • Building a company around gratitude.
  • Hear John’s incredible story about the Brooks Brothers.
  • John has unparalleled employee relationships to change the way they do service.
  • John’s advice to small business owners who are trying to gift their customers well.
  • The best gift John has ever received.
  • Re-defining the way that we treat our customers.
  • Make referrals happen by taking care of the “inner circle.”

 Links:

Follow the link for John’s gift to our listeners! 10 Gifts to Avoid Giving.  

http://giftologybook.com/design/

Pick up your copy of Giftology by John Ruhlin

http://ruhlingroup.com/

]]> 3689 no 231: Cynthia Spence - Formula for Success in Interior Design: Business Skill, Integrity and A Personal Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/231-cynthia-spence-formula-for-success-in-interior-design-business-skill-integrity-and-a-personal-brand Today, we have Cynthia Spence on show with us. She is the Principal of Cynthia Spence Design, which is a Full-Service Interior Design firm,  located in the San Francisco Bay Area and it caters to both Residential and Commercial clients. Cynthia feels that the world has become increasingly more noisy and so it's really important to her to create environments that are both soothing and restorative for her clients. Today, she spends some time talking about how her previous career, in Marketing and Management positions in prominent Entertainment and High Tech companies, informs her Interior Design career. Listen in to find out more. Although it's not the typical route to Interior Design, Cynthia's experience in Relationship Marketing, Creative Services, and Project Management has had a role to play in shaping her business and has also contributed largely towards its success. You will benefit from this experience too, as she really goes into a lot of detail about the skills and services that you need to have, in order to create a truly successful firm. Listen in now, to find out what Cynthia has to share with you. Show highlights: How Cynthia's past career created a framework and positioned her perfectly for an Interior Design business. Why the skill of listening is really so important, in the Interior Design business. Cynthia explains her approach to her clients because every client is really uniquely different. Some of the nuts and bolts of how Cynthia's management experience informed her, when she started out with her own business, twelve years ago. Why you really need to take great care of your vendors- and even possibly defend them at times. Creating the right balance between your strengths and weaknesses. The real value in making mistakes. The importance of ethical behavior, honour, and integrity, for your business. Cynthia explains how her business is set up and what it looks like. How to let your client know that you have their project under control. (Even if it doesn't seem that way for you at the time!) Some advice about home automation, for new Designers. Cynthia talks about her super powers. What made Cynthia transition her career to Interior Design. The better you are at what you do, the more in demand your services will be. Why it takes a lot of resilience, to start your own business. Learning to stand in your client's shoes, to really understand them. Cynthia's goals for the next few years. Cynthia discusses the creative aspects of working as an Interior Designer. Some advice for people who are trying to work out how to market their firm. The type of aesthetic that Cynthia prefers. Spinning your own take on a particular style. Creating your own brand. If you have used any Kravet product recently, take a picture of it, post it to social media, use the hashtag #instakravet and tag Kravet, as they will repost some of them. Links: Her social media: https://twitter.com/CynthiaSpenceSF #itsallabouttheedit https://www.instagram.com/cynthiaspencedesign/ Wed, 13 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today, we have Cynthia Spence on show with us. She is the Principal of Cynthia Spence Design, which is a Full-Service Interior Design firm,  located in the San Francisco Bay Area and it caters to both Residential and Commercial clients. Cynthia... Today, we have Cynthia Spence on show with us. She is the Principal of Cynthia Spence Design, which is a Full-Service Interior Design firm,  located in the San Francisco Bay Area and it caters to both Residential and Commercial clients. Cynthia feels that the world has become increasingly more noisy and so it's really important to her to create environments that are both soothing and restorative for her clients. Today, she spends some time talking about how her previous career, in Marketing and Management positions in prominent Entertainment and High Tech companies, informs her Interior Design career. Listen in to find out more. Although it's not the typical route to Interior Design, Cynthia's experience in Relationship Marketing, Creative Services, and Project Management has had a role to play in shaping her business and has also contributed largely towards its success. You will benefit from this experience too, as she really goes into a lot of detail about the skills and services that you need to have, in order to create a truly successful firm. Listen in now, to find out what Cynthia has to share with you. Show highlights: How Cynthia's past career created a framework and positioned her perfectly for an Interior Design business. Why the skill of listening is really so important, in the Interior Design business. Cynthia explains her approach to her clients because every client is really uniquely different. Some of the nuts and bolts of how Cynthia's management experience informed her, when she started out with her own business, twelve years ago. Why you really need to take great care of your vendors- and even possibly defend them at times. Creating the right balance between your strengths and weaknesses. The real value in making mistakes. The importance of ethical behavior, honour, and integrity, for your business. Cynthia explains how her business is set up and what it looks like. How to let your client know that you have their project under control. (Even if it doesn't seem that way for you at the time!) Some advice about home automation, for new Designers. Cynthia talks about her super powers. What made Cynthia transition her career to Interior Design. The better you are at what you do, the more in demand your services will be. Why it takes a lot of resilience, to start your own business. Learning to stand in your client's shoes, to really understand them. Cynthia's goals for the next few years. Cynthia discusses the creative aspects of working as an Interior Designer. Some advice for people who are trying to work out how to market their firm. The type of aesthetic that Cynthia prefers. Spinning your own take on a particular style. Creating your own brand. If you have used any Kravet product recently, take a picture of it, post it to social media, use the hashtag #instakravet and tag Kravet, as they will repost some of them. Links: Her social media: https://twitter.com/CynthiaSpenceSF #itsallabouttheedit https://www.instagram.com/cynthiaspencedesign/ Today, we have Cynthia Spence on show with us. She is the Principal of Cynthia Spence Design, which is a Full-Service Interior Design firm,  located in the San Francisco Bay Area and it caters to both Residential and Commercial clients. Cynthia feels that the world has become increasingly more noisy and so it's really important to her to create environments that are both soothing and restorative for her clients. Today, she spends some time talking about how her previous career, in Marketing and Management positions in prominent Entertainment and High Tech companies, informs her Interior Design career. Listen in to find out more.

Although it's not the typical route to Interior Design, Cynthia's experience in Relationship Marketing, Creative Services, and Project Management has had a role to play in shaping her business and has also contributed largely towards its success. You will benefit from this experience too, as she really goes into a lot of detail about the skills and services that you need to have, in order to create a truly successful firm. Listen in now, to find out what Cynthia has to share with you.

Show highlights:

  • How Cynthia's past career created a framework and positioned her perfectly for an Interior Design business.
  • Why the skill of listening is really so important, in the Interior Design business.
  • Cynthia explains her approach to her clients because every client is really uniquely different.
  • Some of the nuts and bolts of how Cynthia's management experience informed her, when she started out with her own business, twelve years ago.
  • Why you really need to take great care of your vendors- and even possibly defend them at times.
  • Creating the right balance between your strengths and weaknesses.
  • The real value in making mistakes.
  • The importance of ethical behavior, honour, and integrity, for your business.
  • Cynthia explains how her business is set up and what it looks like.
  • How to let your client know that you have their project under control. (Even if it doesn't seem that way for you at the time!)
  • Some advice about home automation, for new Designers.
  • Cynthia talks about her super powers.
  • What made Cynthia transition her career to Interior Design.
  • The better you are at what you do, the more in demand your services will be.
  • Why it takes a lot of resilience, to start your own business.
  • Learning to stand in your client's shoes, to really understand them.
  • Cynthia's goals for the next few years.
  • Cynthia discusses the creative aspects of working as an Interior Designer.
  • Some advice for people who are trying to work out how to market their firm.
  • The type of aesthetic that Cynthia prefers.
  • Spinning your own take on a particular style.
  • Creating your own brand.

If you have used any Kravet product recently, take a picture of it, post it to social media, use the hashtag #instakravet and tag Kravet, as they will repost some of them.

Links:

Her social media: https://twitter.com/CynthiaSpenceSF #itsallabouttheedit https://www.instagram.com/cynthiaspencedesign/]]> 3701 no 230: Maria Viola-Kutruff - Should You be an Adjunct Professor at an University? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/230-maria-viola-kutruff-should-you-be-an-adjunct-professor-at-an-university My guest today is Maria V. Kutruff, principal of Viola Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia area. Over the last 14 years, Maria’s work has ranged from designing custom furniture to designing office spaces to the renovation of entire residences. She is active in the American Society of Interior Designers, having served on its board and received several awards. She received her master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University, where she currently teaches design at the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design. Our focus today is around what it takes to be an adjunct professor, including the pros, the cons, and the nitty gritty. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: Why the curriculum is set up to help design students explore their creativity Our goal in teaching design: to learn about design first and then budget issues Advice to all design students: Take a business class not related to design Why Maria chooses to be an adjunct professor Stay open to new ideas and stay relevant! New things outside your comfort zone The endless possibilities in networking and connection Requirements to be an adjunct professor and the process in acquiring this position How to reach out to colleagues and cultivate a relationship with a university How to prepare your curriculum and how to teach it The time commitment required as an adjunct each week When mature decisions have to be made about balancing a design business and teaching Term-by-term flexibility as an adjunct Build up your credibility as a new adjunct The possibility that exists in having a full-fledged design career along with a corollary career as an adjunct Get to know people and bring value to them Resources: Drexel University Interior Design Program: http://drexel.edu/westphal/academics/undergraduate/INTR/   Maria's website: http://violainteriordesign.com   Email Maria: maria@violainteriordesign.com Mon, 11 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest today is Maria V. Kutruff, principal of Viola Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia area. Over the last 14 years, Maria’s work has ranged from designing custom furniture to designing office spaces to the renovation of entire... My guest today is Maria V. Kutruff, principal of Viola Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia area. Over the last 14 years, Maria’s work has ranged from designing custom furniture to designing office spaces to the renovation of entire residences. She is active in the American Society of Interior Designers, having served on its board and received several awards. She received her master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University, where she currently teaches design at the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design. Our focus today is around what it takes to be an adjunct professor, including the pros, the cons, and the nitty gritty. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: Why the curriculum is set up to help design students explore their creativity Our goal in teaching design: to learn about design first and then budget issues Advice to all design students: Take a business class not related to design Why Maria chooses to be an adjunct professor Stay open to new ideas and stay relevant! New things outside your comfort zone The endless possibilities in networking and connection Requirements to be an adjunct professor and the process in acquiring this position How to reach out to colleagues and cultivate a relationship with a university How to prepare your curriculum and how to teach it The time commitment required as an adjunct each week When mature decisions have to be made about balancing a design business and teaching Term-by-term flexibility as an adjunct Build up your credibility as a new adjunct The possibility that exists in having a full-fledged design career along with a corollary career as an adjunct Get to know people and bring value to them Resources: Drexel University Interior Design Program: http://drexel.edu/westphal/academics/undergraduate/INTR/   Maria's website: http://violainteriordesign.com   Email Maria: maria@violainteriordesign.com My guest today is Maria V. Kutruff, principal of Viola Interior Design, which is located in the Philadelphia area. Over the last 14 years, Maria’s work has ranged from designing custom furniture to designing office spaces to the renovation of entire residences. She is active in the American Society of Interior Designers, having served on its board and received several awards. She received her master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University, where she currently teaches design at the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design. Our focus today is around what it takes to be an adjunct professor, including the pros, the cons, and the nitty gritty. Join us!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • Why the curriculum is set up to help design students explore their creativity
  • Our goal in teaching design: to learn about design first and then budget issues
  • Advice to all design students: Take a business class not related to design
  • Why Maria chooses to be an adjunct professor
  • Stay open to new ideas and stay relevant!
  • New things outside your comfort zone
  • The endless possibilities in networking and connection
  • Requirements to be an adjunct professor and the process in acquiring this position
  • How to reach out to colleagues and cultivate a relationship with a university
  • How to prepare your curriculum and how to teach it
  • The time commitment required as an adjunct each week
  • When mature decisions have to be made about balancing a design business and teaching
  • Term-by-term flexibility as an adjunct
  • Build up your credibility as a new adjunct
  • The possibility that exists in having a full-fledged design career along with a corollary career as an adjunct
  • Get to know people and bring value to them

Resources:

Drexel University Interior Design Program: http://drexel.edu/westphal/academics/undergraduate/INTR/   Maria's website: http://violainteriordesign.com   Email Maria: maria@violainteriordesign.com]]> 3483 no 229: Power Talk Friday: Jody Padar - How To Hire & Talk With a CPA http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/-229-power-talk-friday-jody-padar-how-to-hire-talk-with-a-cpa The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jody Padar. She's a CPA and she also has a podcast called 'Let's Get Radical', so she goes by the name 'The Radical CPA'. Jody is the CEO and the Principal of New Vision CPA Group, which is a Public Accounting firm based in the Chicago area. Jody joined her father's firm more than ten years ago and today, we talk with her about what happened when she first joined, what it was like and what transpired from that. Listen in to find out more about Jody's radical approach to accounting and how it can really be of benefit to you, in your business.   LuAnn knows that at times, we all have to hear the same thing a number times before the light bulb actually goes on in our heads. Jody, as The Radical CPA, has a very different way of going about helping business owners and small businesses to navigate their way around the accounting side of their businesses and stay on track. It's a far cry from the old and staid model of accounting and this is why LuAnn has invited her on the show today, to put the bug in your ear again and to remind you that it really is time to grow up and do things right in your business. So, listen in now, for some great insights from Jody, about how accounting technology can really work for you, in your business.     Show highlights:   Jody talks about what it was like when she joined her father's firm and what happened there, once she joined.  The realization that Jody had about her business ten years ago, as a result of working with all the new technology and software that became available to her through the internet. How Jody banded together with other young CPA's seven years ago and they became coined as a movement of doing things in a different way- or Radical CPA's. The value and insight that a CPA should be bringing to a business, should be in in the forward-looking and the cash flow projections and helping to build the business. In the past, CPA's were so busy doing things, that they didn't have the time to step back and work in an advisory capacity. Now however, they can work in that capacity, because the technology is doing all the work that they used to have to do. What you, as small business owners or Interior Designers, need to know, in order to ask an Accountant or CPA the right questions.  If you're still living in a paper world, the first thing is that you have to automate, because the power is in the data. Working with Cloud Based Accounting. You can put the information in and the technology (the software program) does 85% of the work. Jody suggests using Quick Books Online, or Zero. These will allow both you and your Accountant to log in to your data. Working with your Accountant, in order to realise your goals- It's important to think about where you want to go, in your business, because the way that your Accountant is going to work with you, will be based on your values. Why Jody thinks that CPA's stand in the best position, as Business Coaches. Accounting is the language of business, so you need to be open to the advice of your Accountant, to face the facts and grow your business. It's very important to find the right Accountant- the one that you can really relate to. New school Accountants are building advisory into their practices. It's best to work with an Accountant who is working in a timely manner, in real time. You want to be talking to your Accountant four times a year, at minimum. Most Radical CPA's work in a fixed fee model, charging a subscription based monthly fee. This is to encourage communication. Your choice of entity is your number one tax saving factor.  Sales tax is a huge issue, so you, as Designers really need to talk to a professional about this.  Avalara.com is a great place to go to check out the Sales Tax Laws. You need to keep trying until you find the Accountant who is exactly the right fit for you and your business.   Links:   Jody's website: www.newvisioncpagroup.com    You can listen to Jody's podcast, Let's Get Radical, on iTunes or Stitcher.   Jody on Twitter: @jodypadarcpa    Fri, 08 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: Jody Padar - How To Hire & Talk With a CPA full 229 LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jody Padar. She's a CPA and she also has a podcast called 'Let's Get Radical', so she goes by the name 'The Radical CPA'. Jody is the CEO and the Principal of New Vision CPA Group, which is a Public... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jody Padar. She's a CPA and she also has a podcast called 'Let's Get Radical', so she goes by the name 'The Radical CPA'. Jody is the CEO and the Principal of New Vision CPA Group, which is a Public Accounting firm based in the Chicago area. Jody joined her father's firm more than ten years ago and today, we talk with her about what happened when she first joined, what it was like and what transpired from that. Listen in to find out more about Jody's radical approach to accounting and how it can really be of benefit to you, in your business.   LuAnn knows that at times, we all have to hear the same thing a number times before the light bulb actually goes on in our heads. Jody, as The Radical CPA, has a very different way of going about helping business owners and small businesses to navigate their way around the accounting side of their businesses and stay on track. It's a far cry from the old and staid model of accounting and this is why LuAnn has invited her on the show today, to put the bug in your ear again and to remind you that it really is time to grow up and do things right in your business. So, listen in now, for some great insights from Jody, about how accounting technology can really work for you, in your business.     Show highlights:   Jody talks about what it was like when she joined her father's firm and what happened there, once she joined.  The realization that Jody had about her business ten years ago, as a result of working with all the new technology and software that became available to her through the internet. How Jody banded together with other young CPA's seven years ago and they became coined as a movement of doing things in a different way- or Radical CPA's. The value and insight that a CPA should be bringing to a business, should be in in the forward-looking and the cash flow projections and helping to build the business. In the past, CPA's were so busy doing things, that they didn't have the time to step back and work in an advisory capacity. Now however, they can work in that capacity, because the technology is doing all the work that they used to have to do. What you, as small business owners or Interior Designers, need to know, in order to ask an Accountant or CPA the right questions.  If you're still living in a paper world, the first thing is that you have to automate, because the power is in the data. Working with Cloud Based Accounting. You can put the information in and the technology (the software program) does 85% of the work. Jody suggests using Quick Books Online, or Zero. These will allow both you and your Accountant to log in to your data. Working with your Accountant, in order to realise your goals- It's important to think about where you want to go, in your business, because the way that your Accountant is going to work with you, will be based on your values. Why Jody thinks that CPA's stand in the best position, as Business Coaches. Accounting is the language of business, so you need to be open to the advice of your Accountant, to face the facts and grow your business. It's very important to find the right Accountant- the one that you can really relate to. New school Accountants are building advisory into their practices. It's best to work with an Accountant who is working in a timely manner, in real time. You want to be talking to your Accountant four times a year, at minimum. Most Radical CPA's work in a fixed fee model, charging a subscription based monthly fee. This is to encourage communication. Your choice of entity is your number one tax saving factor.  Sales tax is a huge issue, so you, as Designers really need to talk to a professional about this.  Avalara.com is a great place to go to check out the Sales Tax Laws. You need to keep trying until you find the Accountant who is exactly the right fit for you and your business.   Links:   Jody's website: www.newvisioncpagroup.com    You can listen to Jody's podcast, Let's Get Radical, on iTunes or Stitcher.   Jody on Twitter: @jodypadarcpa    The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jody Padar. She's a CPA and she also has a podcast called 'Let's Get Radical', so she goes by the name 'The Radical CPA'. Jody is the CEO and the Principal of New Vision CPA Group, which is a Public Accounting firm based in the Chicago area. Jody joined her father's firm more than ten years ago and today, we talk with her about what happened when she first joined, what it was like and what transpired from that. Listen in to find out more about Jody's radical approach to accounting and how it can really be of benefit to you, in your business.

 

LuAnn knows that at times, we all have to hear the same thing a number times before the light bulb actually goes on in our heads. Jody, as The Radical CPA, has a very different way of going about helping business owners and small businesses to navigate their way around the accounting side of their businesses and stay on track. It's a far cry from the old and staid model of accounting and this is why LuAnn has invited her on the show today, to put the bug in your ear again and to remind you that it really is time to grow up and do things right in your business. So, listen in now, for some great insights from Jody, about how accounting technology can really work for you, in your business.

 

 

Show highlights:

 

  • Jody talks about what it was like when she joined her father's firm and what happened there, once she joined. 
  • The realization that Jody had about her business ten years ago, as a result of working with all the new technology and software that became available to her through the internet.
  • How Jody banded together with other young CPA's seven years ago and they became coined as a movement of doing things in a different way- or Radical CPA's.
  • The value and insight that a CPA should be bringing to a business, should be in in the forward-looking and the cash flow projections and helping to build the business.
  • In the past, CPA's were so busy doing things, that they didn't have the time to step back and work in an advisory capacity. Now however, they can work in that capacity, because the technology is doing all the work that they used to have to do.
  • What you, as small business owners or Interior Designers, need to know, in order to ask an Accountant or CPA the right questions. 
  • If you're still living in a paper world, the first thing is that you have to automate, because the power is in the data.
  • Working with Cloud Based Accounting. You can put the information in and the technology (the software program) does 85% of the work.
  • Jody suggests using Quick Books Online, or Zero. These will allow both you and your Accountant to log in to your data.
  • Working with your Accountant, in order to realise your goals- It's important to think about where you want to go, in your business, because the way that your Accountant is going to work with you, will be based on your values.
  • Why Jody thinks that CPA's stand in the best position, as Business Coaches.
  • Accounting is the language of business, so you need to be open to the advice of your Accountant, to face the facts and grow your business.
  • It's very important to find the right Accountant- the one that you can really relate to.
  • New school Accountants are building advisory into their practices.
  • It's best to work with an Accountant who is working in a timely manner, in real time.
  • You want to be talking to your Accountant four times a year, at minimum.
  • Most Radical CPA's work in a fixed fee model, charging a subscription based monthly fee. This is to encourage communication.
  • Your choice of entity is your number one tax saving factor. 
  • Sales tax is a huge issue, so you, as Designers really need to talk to a professional about this. 
  • Avalara.com is a great place to go to check out the Sales Tax Laws.
  • You need to keep trying until you find the Accountant who is exactly the right fit for you and your business.

 

Links:

 

Jody's website: www.newvisioncpagroup.com 

 

You can listen to Jody's podcast, Let's Get Radical, on iTunes or Stitcher.

 

Jody on Twitter: @jodypadarcpa 

 

]]> 3067 no 228: Kamila Gornia - Facebook Coaching Sessions - FB Ads Demystified http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/228-kamila-gornia-face-book-coaching-sessions-fb-ads-demystified Today we have Kamila Gornia, a Digital Marketing Strategist, on the show and she's here to help demystify Facebook Ads for us. LuAnn is particularly interested in this topic, because she herself, doesn't have a very good grasp on it. This means that she's tended to put the brakes on with the use of social media in her business, not really knowing if it would be effective enough to be worth spending money on. However, with all the reading and listening that she's been doing around this topic recently, she feels that the time has now come to get to understand it. LuAnn tends to make the assumption that if she's struggling to understand something, then others out there will surely be too, so listen in today, as Kamila helps you to understand how Facebook Ads really work. When Kamila was only twelve years old and still living in a small town in Poland, she got her first computer. This was very exciting for her, so she dove right in and got a little nerdy. She's the kind of person who, if she sees something that seems exciting to do, she just does it! So she learned HTML and created her first website around Japanese Manga and Anime comic books (not very popular in Poland), and started marketing– without even realizing that that was what she was doing! Her approach to it was very organic and the response that she got via the chat room culture of the time was great, so it actually took off. She found it pretty easy to bring on volunteers to help her to make this available to other people, because everyone was so excited about being part of this really cool venture, even though there was no money being made. She actually managed to get to forty thousand views, without any social media or pay traffic, in less than five months! Listen in now, to find out from Kamila how you can really get Facebook Ads to work for you and your Interior Design Business. Show highlights: Kamila explains about the two different camps of people when it comes to paid advertising on Facebook. Kamila explains the first things you need to know and have in place, before spending any money or putting your toe into the water of the ads and the paid portion of Facebook. Crafting an offer (or funnel) that you can send the Facebook Ads traffic to. You need to have a very specific and focused way of getting the traffic to your website, so Kamila gives you some really great options for this. Understand that with your email list, you are actually building an asset. Kamila gives some ideas for Interior Designers to create and grow a following. Why Kamila really likes creating quizzes. A mistake that many people tend to do, with making things DIY. Using E-books, Training Programs, Questionaires or Schedule a Call, to create a Call to Action to drive traffic to your website. The Design Industry is very visual, which makes the process a lot easier. Designing your Call to Action, based on your goals. How to format your Call to Action, through using Facebook Ads. Understanding who you're targeting and also what people will be seeing, with your Facebook Ads. What a Carousel Ad The images are the most important thing with Facbook Ads, then after that comes the headline and ad copy. Get straight to the point, with the copy in your ad. Working with Conversion Objective Ads, using pixels. (You can download a Facebook Pixel plug in.) How to add a snippet of code on your Thank You Page, to turn a conversation into a lead. This can be a more profitable way to do things. Understanding who your ads are going to be shown in front of- either a warm audience or a cold one. Creating a warm audience on your website, through using pixels with your Facebook advertising. What it would cost you, to create  Facebook Ads. The prices really vary a lot. How much to budget for, if you're new to Facebook Advertising. Resources: Kamila's website: www.kamilasocial.com Her podcast: The Kamila Gornia Show: Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Leadership with Heart Behind Hustle Wed, 06 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Kamila Gornia, a Digital Marketing Strategist, on the show and she's here to help demystify Facebook Ads for us. LuAnn is particularly interested in this topic, because she herself, doesn't have a very good grasp on it. This means that... Today we have Kamila Gornia, a Digital Marketing Strategist, on the show and she's here to help demystify Facebook Ads for us. LuAnn is particularly interested in this topic, because she herself, doesn't have a very good grasp on it. This means that she's tended to put the brakes on with the use of social media in her business, not really knowing if it would be effective enough to be worth spending money on. However, with all the reading and listening that she's been doing around this topic recently, she feels that the time has now come to get to understand it. LuAnn tends to make the assumption that if she's struggling to understand something, then others out there will surely be too, so listen in today, as Kamila helps you to understand how Facebook Ads really work. When Kamila was only twelve years old and still living in a small town in Poland, she got her first computer. This was very exciting for her, so she dove right in and got a little nerdy. She's the kind of person who, if she sees something that seems exciting to do, she just does it! So she learned HTML and created her first website around Japanese Manga and Anime comic books (not very popular in Poland), and started marketing– without even realizing that that was what she was doing! Her approach to it was very organic and the response that she got via the chat room culture of the time was great, so it actually took off. She found it pretty easy to bring on volunteers to help her to make this available to other people, because everyone was so excited about being part of this really cool venture, even though there was no money being made. She actually managed to get to forty thousand views, without any social media or pay traffic, in less than five months! Listen in now, to find out from Kamila how you can really get Facebook Ads to work for you and your Interior Design Business. Show highlights: Kamila explains about the two different camps of people when it comes to paid advertising on Facebook. Kamila explains the first things you need to know and have in place, before spending any money or putting your toe into the water of the ads and the paid portion of Facebook. Crafting an offer (or funnel) that you can send the Facebook Ads traffic to. You need to have a very specific and focused way of getting the traffic to your website, so Kamila gives you some really great options for this. Understand that with your email list, you are actually building an asset. Kamila gives some ideas for Interior Designers to create and grow a following. Why Kamila really likes creating quizzes. A mistake that many people tend to do, with making things DIY. Using E-books, Training Programs, Questionaires or Schedule a Call, to create a Call to Action to drive traffic to your website. The Design Industry is very visual, which makes the process a lot easier. Designing your Call to Action, based on your goals. How to format your Call to Action, through using Facebook Ads. Understanding who you're targeting and also what people will be seeing, with your Facebook Ads. What a Carousel Ad The images are the most important thing with Facbook Ads, then after that comes the headline and ad copy. Get straight to the point, with the copy in your ad. Working with Conversion Objective Ads, using pixels. (You can download a Facebook Pixel plug in.) How to add a snippet of code on your Thank You Page, to turn a conversation into a lead. This can be a more profitable way to do things. Understanding who your ads are going to be shown in front of- either a warm audience or a cold one. Creating a warm audience on your website, through using pixels with your Facebook advertising. What it would cost you, to create  Facebook Ads. The prices really vary a lot. How much to budget for, if you're new to Facebook Advertising. Resources: Kamila's website: www.kamilasocial.com Her podcast: The Kamila Gornia Show: Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Leadership with Heart Behind Hustle Today we have Kamila Gornia, a Digital Marketing Strategist, on the show and she's here to help demystify Facebook Ads for us. LuAnn is particularly interested in this topic, because she herself, doesn't have a very good grasp on it. This means that she's tended to put the brakes on with the use of social media in her business, not really knowing if it would be effective enough to be worth spending money on. However, with all the reading and listening that she's been doing around this topic recently, she feels that the time has now come to get to understand it. LuAnn tends to make the assumption that if she's struggling to understand something, then others out there will surely be too, so listen in today, as Kamila helps you to understand how Facebook Ads really work.

When Kamila was only twelve years old and still living in a small town in Poland, she got her first computer. This was very exciting for her, so she dove right in and got a little nerdy. She's the kind of person who, if she sees something that seems exciting to do, she just does it! So she learned HTML and created her first website around Japanese Manga and Anime comic books (not very popular in Poland), and started marketing– without even realizing that that was what she was doing! Her approach to it was very organic and the response that she got via the chat room culture of the time was great, so it actually took off. She found it pretty easy to bring on volunteers to help her to make this available to other people, because everyone was so excited about being part of this really cool venture, even though there was no money being made. She actually managed to get to forty thousand views, without any social media or pay traffic, in less than five months! Listen in now, to find out from Kamila how you can really get Facebook Ads to work for you and your Interior Design Business.

Show highlights:

  • Kamila explains about the two different camps of people when it comes to paid advertising on Facebook.
  • Kamila explains the first things you need to know and have in place, before spending any money or putting your toe into the water of the ads and the paid portion of Facebook.
  • Crafting an offer (or funnel) that you can send the Facebook Ads traffic to.
  • You need to have a very specific and focused way of getting the traffic to your website, so Kamila gives you some really great options for this.
  • Understand that with your email list, you are actually building an asset.
  • Kamila gives some ideas for Interior Designers to create and grow a following.
  • Why Kamila really likes creating quizzes.
  • A mistake that many people tend to do, with making things DIY.
  • Using E-books, Training Programs, Questionaires or Schedule a Call, to create a Call to Action to drive traffic to your website.
  • The Design Industry is very visual, which makes the process a lot easier.
  • Designing your Call to Action, based on your goals.
  • How to format your Call to Action, through using Facebook Ads.
  • Understanding who you're targeting and also what people will be seeing, with your Facebook Ads.
  • What a Carousel Ad
  • The images are the most important thing with Facbook Ads, then after that comes the headline and ad copy.
  • Get straight to the point, with the copy in your ad.
  • Working with Conversion Objective Ads, using pixels. (You can download a Facebook Pixel plug in.)
  • How to add a snippet of code on your Thank You Page, to turn a conversation into a lead. This can be a more profitable way to do things.
  • Understanding who your ads are going to be shown in front of- either a warm audience or a cold one.
  • Creating a warm audience on your website, through using pixels with your Facebook advertising.
  • What it would cost you, to create  Facebook Ads. The prices really vary a lot.
  • How much to budget for, if you're new to Facebook Advertising.

Resources:

Kamila's website: www.kamilasocial.com

Her podcast: The Kamila Gornia Show: Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Leadership with Heart Behind Hustle]]> 3122 no 227: Candy Scott - Practical Advice to Launch, Grow and Sustain Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/227-candy-scott-practical-advice-to-launch-grow-and-sustain-your-interior-design-business My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and  with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors. Show highlights: Candy’s background and experience after design school Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again” The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama” Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build How the design phase and the build phase differ Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want Why you must attend networking events Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go Developing relationships with realtors Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!) Resources: Candy’s website and blog: www.modddesignbuild.com Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_ Mon, 04 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both... My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and  with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors. Show highlights: Candy’s background and experience after design school Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again” The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama” Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build How the design phase and the build phase differ Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want Why you must attend networking events Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go Developing relationships with realtors Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!) Resources: Candy’s website and blog: www.modddesignbuild.com Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_ My guest for today’s amazing show is Candy Scott, the Principal of MOOD Design + Build, based in Chicago. She gives practical advice on launching, growing, and sustaining an interior design business. Candy has 15 years’ experience in both commercial and residential design. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, with a BS in Interior Design. You’ll hear her describe how her early experience working with a large developer and  with large corporate clients, outfitting high-rise condominiums, lobbies, model homes, and showrooms all contributed to some of the principles and lessons she brings to her own business. She founded MOOD Design + Build in 2014, and continues to work with residential clients and small business owners with their homes, offices, and small-scale commercial interiors.

Show highlights:

  • Candy’s background and experience after design school
  • Benefits to working at a furniture store, learning customer service and different segments of the business
  • Making mistakes in the early years: “falling down and getting back up again”
  • The consciousness it takes to “get out of the drama”
  • Finding the place of relating to clients, vendors, and contractors with a sense of mutuality
  • Meeting clients where they are: hearing their frustrations and fear
  • The range of services offered by MOOD Design + Build
  • How the design phase and the build phase differ
  • Breaking down a project into smaller increments and tracking the data
  • How to be the go-to for referrals for the business that larger firms don’t want
  • Why you must attend networking events
  • Weekly sales activity: why you can’t let this part of your business go
  • Developing relationships with realtors
  • Candy’s blog post with 7 Initial Questions for Developing a Beautiful Space and 5 Steps to Making a Beautiful Space (check out her website!)

Resources:

Candy’s website and blog:

www.modddesignbuild.com

Her Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandyScott_

]]> 4220 no 226: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns - 5 Keys to a Fabulous Fall http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/226-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-5-keys-to-a-fabulous-fall Great news! We have Fred Berns back on the show today, for Power Talk Friday! Fred has been with LuAnn in episodes #22, #48, #96 and #174, so they really go way, way back! If you're new to this show, you have a really great treat in store, because Fred is a Coach, specializing in the Interior Design Industry. He has been coaching and writing promotional copy for Interior Designers for more than thirty years and he is the only Interior Design Business Coach and Speaker who creates promotional materials and personal bio's for Design Professionals, right across the world. Listen in to find out more. LuAnn just adores Fred, who has really brought so much value to the Design Industry! He creates online profiles, websites, social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums.  Fred believes that the Fall, which he calls The Prime Time For Promotion For Designers, to be the very best time of year for Design Professionals to market themselves. Today, Fred and LuAnn discuss ways that you can sell yourself to the same customers and clients that you have, and also to some new ones, so listen in now, as we find out from Fred why he believes this to be the very best time for you to be promoting your business. Show highlights: Fred explains why he sees the Fall as the time for gold. Fred explains his concept of a September Letter and what should go into it. The main motive behind the September Letter is to re-introduce yourself to the market place and to remind them about the fabulous services that you have to offer, with your new, killer bio. All the different people that you could send a September Letter to. What Fred sees as the number one obstacle for Design Professionals around the world. Some great ideas for Fall Specials. Fred's thoughts on giving special offers, without having to lower your fees. Snail mail sometimes has more impact than emails. Fred goes over his Champions Checklist. LuAnn gives some great ideas for Marketing yourself in the Fall and building your networking muscle. Fred reminds you that you miss a hundred percent of the shots you didn't take. What your blog posts need to be addressing, right now. Some ideas for a Fall Fix Up Session. More good reasons for marketing yourself in the Fall. Both Fred and LuAnn are going to be at America's Mart, in Atlanta, in the last week of September. If you're looking for some help with your September Letter, or with your Fall Strategy, go to biobriefing.com for a thirty-minute session with Fred. Links: His website: InteriorDesignBusiness.net Fred's Email:Fred@FredBerns.com Fri, 01 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Great news! We have Fred Berns back on the show today, for Power Talk Friday! Fred has been with LuAnn in episodes #22, #48, #96 and #174, so they really go way, way back! If you're new to this show, you have a really great treat in store, because... Great news! We have Fred Berns back on the show today, for Power Talk Friday! Fred has been with LuAnn in episodes #22, #48, #96 and #174, so they really go way, way back! If you're new to this show, you have a really great treat in store, because Fred is a Coach, specializing in the Interior Design Industry. He has been coaching and writing promotional copy for Interior Designers for more than thirty years and he is the only Interior Design Business Coach and Speaker who creates promotional materials and personal bio's for Design Professionals, right across the world. Listen in to find out more. LuAnn just adores Fred, who has really brought so much value to the Design Industry! He creates online profiles, websites, social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums.  Fred believes that the Fall, which he calls The Prime Time For Promotion For Designers, to be the very best time of year for Design Professionals to market themselves. Today, Fred and LuAnn discuss ways that you can sell yourself to the same customers and clients that you have, and also to some new ones, so listen in now, as we find out from Fred why he believes this to be the very best time for you to be promoting your business. Show highlights: Fred explains why he sees the Fall as the time for gold. Fred explains his concept of a September Letter and what should go into it. The main motive behind the September Letter is to re-introduce yourself to the market place and to remind them about the fabulous services that you have to offer, with your new, killer bio. All the different people that you could send a September Letter to. What Fred sees as the number one obstacle for Design Professionals around the world. Some great ideas for Fall Specials. Fred's thoughts on giving special offers, without having to lower your fees. Snail mail sometimes has more impact than emails. Fred goes over his Champions Checklist. LuAnn gives some great ideas for Marketing yourself in the Fall and building your networking muscle. Fred reminds you that you miss a hundred percent of the shots you didn't take. What your blog posts need to be addressing, right now. Some ideas for a Fall Fix Up Session. More good reasons for marketing yourself in the Fall. Both Fred and LuAnn are going to be at America's Mart, in Atlanta, in the last week of September. If you're looking for some help with your September Letter, or with your Fall Strategy, go to biobriefing.com for a thirty-minute session with Fred. Links: His website: InteriorDesignBusiness.net Fred's Email:Fred@FredBerns.com Great news! We have Fred Berns back on the show today, for Power Talk Friday! Fred has been with LuAnn in episodes #22, #48, #96 and #174, so they really go way, way back! If you're new to this show, you have a really great treat in store, because Fred is a Coach, specializing in the Interior Design Industry. He has been coaching and writing promotional copy for Interior Designers for more than thirty years and he is the only Interior Design Business Coach and Speaker who creates promotional materials and personal bio's for Design Professionals, right across the world. Listen in to find out more.

LuAnn just adores Fred, who has really brought so much value to the Design Industry! He creates online profiles, websites, social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums.  Fred believes that the Fall, which he calls The Prime Time For Promotion For Designers, to be the very best time of year for Design Professionals to market themselves. Today, Fred and LuAnn discuss ways that you can sell yourself to the same customers and clients that you have, and also to some new ones, so listen in now, as we find out from Fred why he believes this to be the very best time for you to be promoting your business.

Show highlights:

  • Fred explains why he sees the Fall as the time for gold.
  • Fred explains his concept of a September Letter and what should go into it.
  • The main motive behind the September Letter is to re-introduce yourself to the market place and to remind them about the fabulous services that you have to offer, with your new, killer bio.
  • All the different people that you could send a September Letter to.
  • What Fred sees as the number one obstacle for Design Professionals around the world.
  • Some great ideas for Fall Specials.
  • Fred's thoughts on giving special offers, without having to lower your fees.
  • Snail mail sometimes has more impact than emails.
  • Fred goes over his Champions Checklist.
  • LuAnn gives some great ideas for Marketing yourself in the Fall and building your networking muscle.
  • Fred reminds you that you miss a hundred percent of the shots you didn't take.
  • What your blog posts need to be addressing, right now.
  • Some ideas for a Fall Fix Up Session.
  • More good reasons for marketing yourself in the Fall.
  • Both Fred and LuAnn are going to be at America's Mart, in Atlanta, in the last week of September.
  • If you're looking for some help with your September Letter, or with your Fall Strategy, go to biobriefing.com for a thirty-minute session with Fred.

Links:

His website: InteriorDesignBusiness.net Fred's Email:Fred@FredBerns.com]]> 2456 no 225: Live Coaching Course with LuAnn: Money, Mindset & Sales http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/225-live-coaching-course-with-luann-money-mindset-sales You're probably wondering what LuAnn's doing here on a Thursday, right? Well, this is a news flash that needed it's own show and its own announcement,  so here it is: LuAnn, together with Nancy Ganzekaufer, the first person on the show to introduce the concept of niching in Interior Design (episode #9), is launching a ten week, Live Coaching Session and it's called Money, Mindset And  Sales. LuAnn really wants to make sure that you've heard about it and that you have the chance to be in on this program, so listen in now- it's going to be killer! Nancy and LuAnn hatched this idea about a week and a half ago after they had a conversation about how they both love talking to people and teaching them about sales and they've been discussing this idea, almost constantly, since then. They also really love to see the breakthrough when someone has a shift in mindset about something, so they made a snap decision to do a Coaching Session together. No grass grows under their feet, so listen in to find out how to really kick it out and bring it home in this year of 2017. Show highlights: Nancy was back on the show for episode #159 and there she gave a list of what you need to do, to get really confident and clear on what you offer to your Interior design clients. LuAnn explains how the program, which is starting on the 13th of September, is going to work. Every session will be recorded and made available to you in your inbox, on that day, in case the time zone doesn't work for you. You will also have access to LuAnn and Nancy through a Facebook Group, for your questions. There will be a limited number of people accepted for this program. The two free coaching sessions that you will get with this program. Together, LuAnn and Nancy have fifty years of experience in high ticket sales. LuAnn explains what her goals are, for this program. LuAnn discusses two more goodies that you will get, with this program. LuAnn talks about her book, The Making Of A Well Designed Business. LuAnn discusses Nancy's fifteen module course, called Nail Your Sales Training. LuAnn gives you the cost of their Money, Mindset, And Sales coaching session. Go to windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough for all the information and to see a video of LuAnn and Nancy describing the course. This course can really help you to kill it in the last quarter of 2017! Links: windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough Thu, 31 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara You're probably wondering what LuAnn's doing here on a Thursday, right? Well, this is a news flash that needed it's own show and its own announcement,  so here it is: LuAnn, together with Nancy Ganzekaufer, the first person on the show to... You're probably wondering what LuAnn's doing here on a Thursday, right? Well, this is a news flash that needed it's own show and its own announcement,  so here it is: LuAnn, together with Nancy Ganzekaufer, the first person on the show to introduce the concept of niching in Interior Design (episode #9), is launching a ten week, Live Coaching Session and it's called Money, Mindset And  Sales. LuAnn really wants to make sure that you've heard about it and that you have the chance to be in on this program, so listen in now- it's going to be killer! Nancy and LuAnn hatched this idea about a week and a half ago after they had a conversation about how they both love talking to people and teaching them about sales and they've been discussing this idea, almost constantly, since then. They also really love to see the breakthrough when someone has a shift in mindset about something, so they made a snap decision to do a Coaching Session together. No grass grows under their feet, so listen in to find out how to really kick it out and bring it home in this year of 2017. Show highlights: Nancy was back on the show for episode #159 and there she gave a list of what you need to do, to get really confident and clear on what you offer to your Interior design clients. LuAnn explains how the program, which is starting on the 13th of September, is going to work. Every session will be recorded and made available to you in your inbox, on that day, in case the time zone doesn't work for you. You will also have access to LuAnn and Nancy through a Facebook Group, for your questions. There will be a limited number of people accepted for this program. The two free coaching sessions that you will get with this program. Together, LuAnn and Nancy have fifty years of experience in high ticket sales. LuAnn explains what her goals are, for this program. LuAnn discusses two more goodies that you will get, with this program. LuAnn talks about her book, The Making Of A Well Designed Business. LuAnn discusses Nancy's fifteen module course, called Nail Your Sales Training. LuAnn gives you the cost of their Money, Mindset, And Sales coaching session. Go to windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough for all the information and to see a video of LuAnn and Nancy describing the course. This course can really help you to kill it in the last quarter of 2017! Links: windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough You're probably wondering what LuAnn's doing here on a Thursday, right? Well, this is a news flash that needed it's own show and its own announcement,  so here it is: LuAnn, together with Nancy Ganzekaufer, the first person on the show to introduce the concept of niching in Interior Design (episode #9), is launching a ten week, Live Coaching Session and it's called Money, Mindset And  Sales. LuAnn really wants to make sure that you've heard about it and that you have the chance to be in on this program, so listen in now- it's going to be killer!

Nancy and LuAnn hatched this idea about a week and a half ago after they had a conversation about how they both love talking to people and teaching them about sales and they've been discussing this idea, almost constantly, since then. They also really love to see the breakthrough when someone has a shift in mindset about something, so they made a snap decision to do a Coaching Session together. No grass grows under their feet, so listen in to find out how to really kick it out and bring it home in this year of 2017.

Show highlights:

  • Nancy was back on the show for episode #159 and there she gave a list of what you need to do, to get really confident and clear on what you offer to your Interior design clients.
  • LuAnn explains how the program, which is starting on the 13th of September, is going to work.
  • Every session will be recorded and made available to you in your inbox, on that day, in case the time zone doesn't work for you.
  • You will also have access to LuAnn and Nancy through a Facebook Group, for your questions.
  • There will be a limited number of people accepted for this program.
  • The two free coaching sessions that you will get with this program.
  • Together, LuAnn and Nancy have fifty years of experience in high ticket sales.
  • LuAnn explains what her goals are, for this program.
  • LuAnn discusses two more goodies that you will get, with this program.
  • LuAnn talks about her book, The Making Of A Well Designed Business.
  • LuAnn discusses Nancy's fifteen module course, called Nail Your Sales Training.
  • LuAnn gives you the cost of their Money, Mindset, And Sales coaching session.
  • Go to windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough for all the information and to see a video of LuAnn and Nancy describing the course.
  • This course can really help you to kill it in the last quarter of 2017!

Links:

windowworks-nj.com/breakthrough

]]> 722 no 224: Rachelle DiCecco - Certified Cruelty Free Design - Course Graduate http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/224-certified-cruelty-free-design-course-graduate-rachelle-dicecco Today is the third show in the series which has been sponsored by Certified Cruelty Free Design, which is the heart project and brainchild of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design in Miami, Florida. If this is the first time that you're listening to this show, you can go back and listen to #82, where we met Deborah Rosenberg, to find out more about her and how she runs her business. Then, in episode #117, she explains in detail about the CEU Course that she created, in Certified Cruelty Free Design. Then there is the sponsored show, with this being the third show of that series. In episode #212, Deborah spoke about her Course and about why it's so important for you to consider, as a Designer. In episode #218, Deborah explained the resources and marketing of Certified Cruelty Free Design. Go back and listen in, because all these shows are really well worth listening to. Today, we get to meet Rachelle DiCecco, an Interior Design Student in Australia. Rachelle is in her final semester and when she heard about Certified Cruelty Free Design, she decided to take the course. On the show today, Rachelle shares her impressions of the course and her opinions about its content and also, how she expects to make use of it in her career as an Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out more about the ins and outs of Deborah's Certified Cruelty Free Design Course. Show highlights: Rachelle explains what compelled her to take the course. She found no other course like it when doing her research. Rachelle explains, in practical terms, how one goes about taking the course, the time it takes and what it consists of. The course is extremely flexible and you can jump in and out of it whenever you want to, so it's very easy to work with. Rochelle talks about the content of the course. There was way more content there than she expected to find. Rochelle explains about the fantastic support system which has been set up for everyone taking the course, all around the world. Rochelle found that she was completely satisfied with the whole course. Rachelle talks about the impact that the course has had on her and what she's come to realize, since taking it. The kind of responsibility that follows the Cruelty Free awareness. How Rachelle intends to incorporate what she's learned in the course, into her future career. The great response from Rachelle's lecturers, towards her taking the course. How Rachelle intends to deal with clients who want to use leather or other non-sustainable products. Becoming part of this worldwide socially conscious, ethical network was a really huge thing for Rachelle. It's way bigger than she previously thought. Rachelle will never look furniture in quite the same way again. The vast amount of ethical alternatives that Rachelle intends to bring to the attention of her future clients. Links: Rachelle's Website: Certified Cruelty Free   Her Twiter: Cert Cruelty-Free Dimare Design Wed, 30 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today is the third show in the series which has been sponsored by Certified Cruelty Free Design, which is the heart project and brainchild of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design in Miami, Florida. If this is the first time that you're listening to... Today is the third show in the series which has been sponsored by Certified Cruelty Free Design, which is the heart project and brainchild of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design in Miami, Florida. If this is the first time that you're listening to this show, you can go back and listen to #82, where we met Deborah Rosenberg, to find out more about her and how she runs her business. Then, in episode #117, she explains in detail about the CEU Course that she created, in Certified Cruelty Free Design. Then there is the sponsored show, with this being the third show of that series. In episode #212, Deborah spoke about her Course and about why it's so important for you to consider, as a Designer. In episode #218, Deborah explained the resources and marketing of Certified Cruelty Free Design. Go back and listen in, because all these shows are really well worth listening to. Today, we get to meet Rachelle DiCecco, an Interior Design Student in Australia. Rachelle is in her final semester and when she heard about Certified Cruelty Free Design, she decided to take the course. On the show today, Rachelle shares her impressions of the course and her opinions about its content and also, how she expects to make use of it in her career as an Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out more about the ins and outs of Deborah's Certified Cruelty Free Design Course. Show highlights: Rachelle explains what compelled her to take the course. She found no other course like it when doing her research. Rachelle explains, in practical terms, how one goes about taking the course, the time it takes and what it consists of. The course is extremely flexible and you can jump in and out of it whenever you want to, so it's very easy to work with. Rochelle talks about the content of the course. There was way more content there than she expected to find. Rochelle explains about the fantastic support system which has been set up for everyone taking the course, all around the world. Rochelle found that she was completely satisfied with the whole course. Rachelle talks about the impact that the course has had on her and what she's come to realize, since taking it. The kind of responsibility that follows the Cruelty Free awareness. How Rachelle intends to incorporate what she's learned in the course, into her future career. The great response from Rachelle's lecturers, towards her taking the course. How Rachelle intends to deal with clients who want to use leather or other non-sustainable products. Becoming part of this worldwide socially conscious, ethical network was a really huge thing for Rachelle. It's way bigger than she previously thought. Rachelle will never look furniture in quite the same way again. The vast amount of ethical alternatives that Rachelle intends to bring to the attention of her future clients. Links: Rachelle's Website: Certified Cruelty Free   Her Twiter: Cert Cruelty-Free Dimare Design Today is the third show in the series which has been sponsored by Certified Cruelty Free Design, which is the heart project and brainchild of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design in Miami, Florida. If this is the first time that you're listening to this show, you can go back and listen to #82, where we met Deborah Rosenberg, to find out more about her and how she runs her business.

Then, in episode #117, she explains in detail about the CEU Course that she created, in Certified Cruelty Free Design. Then there is the sponsored show, with this being the third show of that series. In episode #212, Deborah spoke about her Course and about why it's so important for you to consider, as a Designer. In episode #218, Deborah explained the resources and marketing of Certified Cruelty Free Design. Go back and listen in, because all these shows are really well worth listening to.

Today, we get to meet Rachelle DiCecco, an Interior Design Student in Australia. Rachelle is in her final semester and when she heard about Certified Cruelty Free Design, she decided to take the course. On the show today, Rachelle shares her impressions of the course and her opinions about its content and also, how she expects to make use of it in her career as an Interior Designer. Listen in now, to find out more about the ins and outs of Deborah's Certified Cruelty Free Design Course.

Show highlights:

  • Rachelle explains what compelled her to take the course. She found no other course like it when doing her research.
  • Rachelle explains, in practical terms, how one goes about taking the course, the time it takes and what it consists of. The course is extremely flexible and you can jump in and out of it whenever you want to, so it's very easy to work with.
  • Rochelle talks about the content of the course. There was way more content there than she expected to find.
  • Rochelle explains about the fantastic support system which has been set up for everyone taking the course, all around the world.
  • Rochelle found that she was completely satisfied with the whole course.
  • Rachelle talks about the impact that the course has had on her and what she's come to realize, since taking it.
  • The kind of responsibility that follows the Cruelty Free awareness.
  • How Rachelle intends to incorporate what she's learned in the course, into her future career.
  • The great response from Rachelle's lecturers, towards her taking the course.
  • How Rachelle intends to deal with clients who want to use leather or other non-sustainable products.
  • Becoming part of this worldwide socially conscious, ethical network was a really huge thing for Rachelle. It's way bigger than she previously thought.
  • Rachelle will never look furniture in quite the same way again.
  • The vast amount of ethical alternatives that Rachelle intends to bring to the attention of her future clients.

Links:

Rachelle's Website: Certified Cruelty Free   Her Twiter: Cert Cruelty-Free

Dimare Design

]]> 2245 no 223: Allison Fannin - Pinterest Tips for your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/223-pinterest-tips-for-your-interior-design-firm The guest on today's show is Allison Fannin, the Texan Principal of Two Thirty-Five Designs. LuAnn invited her on the show for a very specific reason- and then, while researching her, she discovered that Allison actually had twenty-seven thousand followers on Pinterest! Allison graciously agreed to make the focus of today's discussion about the figuring out of the whole Pinterest thing. So, listen in, as LuAnn and Allison pick this topic apart.  In episode #209, LuAnn interviewed Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, of the Savour Partnership. During that interview, Leslie pointed out that if you're not using Pinterest to drive traffic to your website, you're actually missing the boat. LuAnn didn't even know how to do that, so she took some steps to find out. Then, shortly afterward, she received a message from Darla Powell, asking if she was going to get a Pinterest expert on the show. LuAnn decided that if she and Darla were both wanting to find out about it, most likely you were too.  So listen in now, to find out more about how to use Pinterest and also Instagram and Facebook, to drive traffic to your website. Show highlights: LuAnn explains how she and Allison came to be connected, through a crazy picture and caption on Magazine Living, on Instagram. Allison's huge number of followers on Pinterest and Instagram, where she herself, only follows a fraction of that number of people. Allison talks about how Pinterest, which has really become a massive search engine, has evolved, over the years. Allison explains how Pinterest works and how you can use it best, to get more traffic. Group Boards on Pinterest. Allison explains why she has so many more followers on Pinterest than the number of people that she follows, herself. The amount of time that Allison actually spends on Pinterest. Allison explains how Pinterest works, as a technical driver of traffic to your website. Using Rich Pins and Keywords for SEO, when using Pinterest. Why it's a good idea to have a Business Account on Pinterest. How Rich Pins work in conjunction with your website. Why you should put your blog name in the title of your pictures. Pinterest has become a lot like Instagram- it's really about the pretty stuff. The method of using re-pins effectively, for a constant flow, on Pinterest. Titling your pictures properly on Pinterest, for optimum SEO. You can follow selectively, on Pinterest. Using basic words to name your Boards on Pinterest. There are several services that you can use, (like Boardbooster) to schedule out your pins on Pinterest. You can go back to old posts and edit them- don't forget to re-pin when you do! Coming up with the right titles for Pinterest posts. Using subtitles on Pinterest. How Allison's following on Pinterest and Instagram has translated into money for her.            Links: Allison's website: www.twothirtyfivedesigns.com Allison on Facebook and Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/magazineliving/ Mon, 28 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Allison Fannin, the Texan Principal of Two Thirty-Five Designs. LuAnn invited her on the show for a very specific reason- and then, while researching her, she discovered that Allison actually had twenty-seven thousand... The guest on today's show is Allison Fannin, the Texan Principal of Two Thirty-Five Designs. LuAnn invited her on the show for a very specific reason- and then, while researching her, she discovered that Allison actually had twenty-seven thousand followers on Pinterest! Allison graciously agreed to make the focus of today's discussion about the figuring out of the whole Pinterest thing. So, listen in, as LuAnn and Allison pick this topic apart.  In episode #209, LuAnn interviewed Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, of the Savour Partnership. During that interview, Leslie pointed out that if you're not using Pinterest to drive traffic to your website, you're actually missing the boat. LuAnn didn't even know how to do that, so she took some steps to find out. Then, shortly afterward, she received a message from Darla Powell, asking if she was going to get a Pinterest expert on the show. LuAnn decided that if she and Darla were both wanting to find out about it, most likely you were too.  So listen in now, to find out more about how to use Pinterest and also Instagram and Facebook, to drive traffic to your website. Show highlights: LuAnn explains how she and Allison came to be connected, through a crazy picture and caption on Magazine Living, on Instagram. Allison's huge number of followers on Pinterest and Instagram, where she herself, only follows a fraction of that number of people. Allison talks about how Pinterest, which has really become a massive search engine, has evolved, over the years. Allison explains how Pinterest works and how you can use it best, to get more traffic. Group Boards on Pinterest. Allison explains why she has so many more followers on Pinterest than the number of people that she follows, herself. The amount of time that Allison actually spends on Pinterest. Allison explains how Pinterest works, as a technical driver of traffic to your website. Using Rich Pins and Keywords for SEO, when using Pinterest. Why it's a good idea to have a Business Account on Pinterest. How Rich Pins work in conjunction with your website. Why you should put your blog name in the title of your pictures. Pinterest has become a lot like Instagram- it's really about the pretty stuff. The method of using re-pins effectively, for a constant flow, on Pinterest. Titling your pictures properly on Pinterest, for optimum SEO. You can follow selectively, on Pinterest. Using basic words to name your Boards on Pinterest. There are several services that you can use, (like Boardbooster) to schedule out your pins on Pinterest. You can go back to old posts and edit them- don't forget to re-pin when you do! Coming up with the right titles for Pinterest posts. Using subtitles on Pinterest. How Allison's following on Pinterest and Instagram has translated into money for her.            Links: Allison's website: www.twothirtyfivedesigns.com Allison on Facebook and Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/magazineliving/ The guest on today's show is Allison Fannin, the Texan Principal of Two Thirty-Five Designs. LuAnn invited her on the show for a very specific reason- and then, while researching her, she discovered that Allison actually had twenty-seven thousand followers on Pinterest! Allison graciously agreed to make the focus of today's discussion about the figuring out of the whole Pinterest thing. So, listen in, as LuAnn and Allison pick this topic apart. 

In episode #209, LuAnn interviewed Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, of the Savour Partnership. During that interview, Leslie pointed out that if you're not using Pinterest to drive traffic to your website, you're actually missing the boat. LuAnn didn't even know how to do that, so she took some steps to find out. Then, shortly afterward, she received a message from Darla Powell, asking if she was going to get a Pinterest expert on the show. LuAnn decided that if she and Darla were both wanting to find out about it, most likely you were too.  So listen in now, to find out more about how to use Pinterest and also Instagram and Facebook, to drive traffic to your website.

Show highlights:

  • LuAnn explains how she and Allison came to be connected, through a crazy picture and caption on Magazine Living, on Instagram.
  • Allison's huge number of followers on Pinterest and Instagram, where she herself, only follows a fraction of that number of people.
  • Allison talks about how Pinterest, which has really become a massive search engine, has evolved, over the years.
  • Allison explains how Pinterest works and how you can use it best, to get more traffic.
  • Group Boards on Pinterest.
  • Allison explains why she has so many more followers on Pinterest than the number of people that she follows, herself.
  • The amount of time that Allison actually spends on Pinterest.
  • Allison explains how Pinterest works, as a technical driver of traffic to your website.
  • Using Rich Pins and Keywords for SEO, when using Pinterest.
  • Why it's a good idea to have a Business Account on Pinterest.
  • How Rich Pins work in conjunction with your website.
  • Why you should put your blog name in the title of your pictures.
  • Pinterest has become a lot like Instagram- it's really about the pretty stuff.
  • The method of using re-pins effectively, for a constant flow, on Pinterest.
  • Titling your pictures properly on Pinterest, for optimum SEO.
  • You can follow selectively, on Pinterest.
  • Using basic words to name your Boards on Pinterest.
  • There are several services that you can use, (like Boardbooster) to schedule out your pins on Pinterest.
  • You can go back to old posts and edit them- don't forget to re-pin when you do!
  • Coming up with the right titles for Pinterest posts.
  • Using subtitles on Pinterest.
  • How Allison's following on Pinterest and Instagram has translated into money for her.           

Links:

Allison's website: www.twothirtyfivedesigns.com

Allison on Facebook and Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/magazineliving/

]]> 4037 no 222: Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/222-power-talk-friday-lee-cockerell-customer-service-the-disney-way On today's episode of Power Talk Friday, LuAnn has an absolutely ridiculous treat for you!  She has Lee Cockerell with her, who's name may or may not be familiar to you... He has spent his career leading operations all over the world, for Hilton Hotels, Mariott Hotels, and Walt Disney Company. He spent more than twenty years with the Walt Disney Company, where he ultimately became Executive Vice President of Walt Disney World Operations. Since then, he has gone on to form his own company,  where he shares what he has learned and he makes available his breakthrough methods for becoming a better manager and a great leader. LuAnn is really busting at the seams because this is truly her kind of topic!  Lee is also has a podcast called Creating Disney Magic, where he shares his Disney experiences in an effort to help people like you become better leaders and managers.  (Episode no.1 of that podcast is a really interesting one, where Lee literally goes through his entire career.)  At Disney, they created an environment where every employee matters and they know they matter. In addition to that, he has written four books, called Creating  Magic- Ten Common Sense Leadership Strategies From A Life At Disney,  The Customer Rules-Thirty Nine Essential Rules For Delivering Sensational Customer Service, Time Management Magic- How To Get More Done Every Day And More From  Surviving To Thriving  and his latest book, Creating Career Magic- How To Stay On Track And Create A Stellar Career. There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today. There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today. Show highlights: Lee talks about his philosophy around ways to really set your organization apart, in the eyes of your customers and your employees. It's really important to be very clear about your level of expectations. According to Lee, there are three things that you have to have, to be successful- You have to have a skill, you have to have the right positive attitude and you have to have passion. Hire slow and fire fast. Disney has a hundred and thirty questions that potential employees have to answer, before even being granted an interview. Lee relates some of these to a Designer, or a small firm, considering making their first hire. (His book, The Customer Rules, has a chapter on how to hire the right people.) In Lee's opinion, most people don't know how to conduct a proper interview. Lee recommends reading Don't Hire Anyone Without Me, by Carol Quinn, to help you to hire the right people. Obstacles are the name of the game. The way people have handled obstacles in the past will be a good indicator of how they deal with them in the future. Lee talks about training people the Disney way. Everything matters! A bad employee will kill your business. The key to great training is remembering that the customer is more important than anything else! Everyone needs to understand where they fit in and how they matter. All Disney contractors go through the same training as their employees. Lee explains his concept of firing fast. Be careful who you hire! When you're clear with people, you get better performance. People only change for two reasons- education, or crisis. It's important for your employees to understand that when you pull them up about something, you're only coming to them to help them to be better. Role modeling is very important for employees (and children!) Lee's advice for great time management. Discipline and a good system for planning are really most important here. Fix yesterday, every day, before it gets out of control because regrets are really tough to handle. (This is reflection.) Excellence is a state of mind. Provide Free Fuel for your employees every day: Appreciation, Recognition, and Encouragement. You can hand these three out all day, to increase your employee's levels of commitment. Fix one thing you've been putting off for years-next week! Do things on purpose. Life will get a whole lot better, real quick! People really notice a good attitude and discipline. Link:  Lee's website: www.leecockerell.com His podcast: Creating Disney Magic https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-disney-magic-lessons-in-leadership-management/id954054965?mt=2 Fri, 25 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On today's episode of Power Talk Friday, LuAnn has an absolutely ridiculous treat for you!  She has Lee Cockerell with her, who's name may or may not be familiar to you... He has spent his career leading operations all over the world, for Hilton... On today's episode of Power Talk Friday, LuAnn has an absolutely ridiculous treat for you!  She has Lee Cockerell with her, who's name may or may not be familiar to you... He has spent his career leading operations all over the world, for Hilton Hotels, Mariott Hotels, and Walt Disney Company. He spent more than twenty years with the Walt Disney Company, where he ultimately became Executive Vice President of Walt Disney World Operations. Since then, he has gone on to form his own company,  where he shares what he has learned and he makes available his breakthrough methods for becoming a better manager and a great leader. LuAnn is really busting at the seams because this is truly her kind of topic!  Lee is also has a podcast called Creating Disney Magic, where he shares his Disney experiences in an effort to help people like you become better leaders and managers.  (Episode no.1 of that podcast is a really interesting one, where Lee literally goes through his entire career.)  At Disney, they created an environment where every employee matters and they know they matter. In addition to that, he has written four books, called Creating  Magic- Ten Common Sense Leadership Strategies From A Life At Disney,  The Customer Rules-Thirty Nine Essential Rules For Delivering Sensational Customer Service, Time Management Magic- How To Get More Done Every Day And More From  Surviving To Thriving  and his latest book, Creating Career Magic- How To Stay On Track And Create A Stellar Career. There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today. There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today. Show highlights: Lee talks about his philosophy around ways to really set your organization apart, in the eyes of your customers and your employees. It's really important to be very clear about your level of expectations. According to Lee, there are three things that you have to have, to be successful- You have to have a skill, you have to have the right positive attitude and you have to have passion. Hire slow and fire fast. Disney has a hundred and thirty questions that potential employees have to answer, before even being granted an interview. Lee relates some of these to a Designer, or a small firm, considering making their first hire. (His book, The Customer Rules, has a chapter on how to hire the right people.) In Lee's opinion, most people don't know how to conduct a proper interview. Lee recommends reading Don't Hire Anyone Without Me, by Carol Quinn, to help you to hire the right people. Obstacles are the name of the game. The way people have handled obstacles in the past will be a good indicator of how they deal with them in the future. Lee talks about training people the Disney way. Everything matters! A bad employee will kill your business. The key to great training is remembering that the customer is more important than anything else! Everyone needs to understand where they fit in and how they matter. All Disney contractors go through the same training as their employees. Lee explains his concept of firing fast. Be careful who you hire! When you're clear with people, you get better performance. People only change for two reasons- education, or crisis. It's important for your employees to understand that when you pull them up about something, you're only coming to them to help them to be better. Role modeling is very important for employees (and children!) Lee's advice for great time management. Discipline and a good system for planning are really most important here. Fix yesterday, every day, before it gets out of control because regrets are really tough to handle. (This is reflection.) Excellence is a state of mind. Provide Free Fuel for your employees every day: Appreciation, Recognition, and Encouragement. You can hand these three out all day, to increase your employee's levels of commitment. Fix one thing you've been putting off for years-next week! Do things on purpose. Life will get a whole lot better, real quick! People really notice a good attitude and discipline. Link:  Lee's website: www.leecockerell.com His podcast: Creating Disney Magic https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-disney-magic-lessons-in-leadership-management/id954054965?mt=2 On today's episode of Power Talk Friday, LuAnn has an absolutely ridiculous treat for you!  She has Lee Cockerell with her, who's name may or may not be familiar to you... He has spent his career leading operations all over the world, for Hilton Hotels, Mariott Hotels, and Walt Disney Company.

He spent more than twenty years with the Walt Disney Company, where he ultimately became Executive Vice President of Walt Disney World Operations. Since then, he has gone on to form his own company,  where he shares what he has learned and he makes available his breakthrough methods for becoming a better manager and a great leader. LuAnn is really busting at the seams because this is truly her kind of topic!  Lee is also has a podcast called Creating Disney Magic, where he shares his Disney experiences in an effort to help people like you become better leaders and managers. 

(Episode no.1 of that podcast is a really interesting one, where Lee literally goes through his entire career.)  At Disney, they created an environment where every employee matters and they know they matter. In addition to that, he has written four books, called Creating  Magic- Ten Common Sense Leadership Strategies From A Life At Disney,  The Customer Rules-Thirty Nine Essential Rules For Delivering Sensational Customer Service, Time Management Magic- How To Get More Done Every Day And More From  Surviving To Thriving  and his latest book, Creating Career Magic- How To Stay On Track And Create A Stellar Career. There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today.

There are three things that Lee and his team do better than everybody else, which really makes all the difference, they hire better, they train better and they treat them (their employees) better. That is the key that either creates success for most organizations or not, according to Lee. Listen in now, as LuAnn (who is literally beyond herself right now) talks to Lee about his thoughts and processes, on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Lee talks about his philosophy around ways to really set your organization apart, in the eyes of your customers and your employees. It's really important to be very clear about your level of expectations.
  • According to Lee, there are three things that you have to have, to be successful- You have to have a skill, you have to have the right positive attitude and you have to have passion.
  • Hire slow and fire fast.
  • Disney has a hundred and thirty questions that potential employees have to answer, before even being granted an interview. Lee relates some of these to a Designer, or a small firm, considering making their first hire. (His book, The Customer Rules, has a chapter on how to hire the right people.) In Lee's opinion, most people don't know how to conduct a proper interview.
  • Lee recommends reading Don't Hire Anyone Without Me, by Carol Quinn, to help you to hire the right people.
  • Obstacles are the name of the game. The way people have handled obstacles in the past will be a good indicator of how they deal with them in the future.
  • Lee talks about training people the Disney way. Everything matters! A bad employee will kill your business.
  • The key to great training is remembering that the customer is more important than anything else! Everyone needs to understand where they fit in and how they matter.
  • All Disney contractors go through the same training as their employees.
  • Lee explains his concept of firing fast. Be careful who you hire!
  • When you're clear with people, you get better performance.
  • People only change for two reasons- education, or crisis.
  • It's important for your employees to understand that when you pull them up about something, you're only coming to them to help them to be better.
  • Role modeling is very important for employees (and children!)
  • Lee's advice for great time management. Discipline and a good system for planning are really most important here. Fix yesterday, every day, before it gets out of control because regrets are really tough to handle. (This is reflection.)
  • Excellence is a state of mind.
  • Provide Free Fuel for your employees every day: Appreciation, Recognition, and Encouragement. You can hand these three out all day, to increase your employee's levels of commitment.
  • Fix one thing you've been putting off for years-next week!
  • Do things on purpose. Life will get a whole lot better, real quick!
  • People really notice a good attitude and discipline.

Link: 

Lee's website: www.leecockerell.com

His podcast: Creating Disney Magic https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-disney-magic-lessons-in-leadership-management/id954054965?mt=2]]> 2797 no 221: FaceBook Coaching Sessions-Show #2 with Sherri-Lee Woycik http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/221-facebook-coaching-sessions-show-2-with-sherri-lee-woycik Today we have the second show in our Facebook Coaching series. If you missed the first show, it was episode #215, where LuAnn spoke with Kate O'Hara, the Marketing and Business Development Director at Martha O'Hara Interiors. There she spoke about how to build your following on your Facebook Business Page. Martha O'Hara Interiors has over two hundred thousand followers, so she really has some pretty good advice for you there, so be sure to go and check that show out. Today's show is with Sherri-Lee Woycik, a Facebook Marketing and Ads expert and she's also the founder of Social Media Minder. She really loves helping heart centered entrepreneurs get more customers and clients from Facebook. She provides Social Media Services to business owners through a range of services, which include boot camps, one on one, group and self-study training and she also offers 'done for you' strategies and implementation. Sherri-Lee is an authorized local expert for constant contact and she uses this Facebook platform herself and she encourages her clients to use it too because this really is a platform for growing your email list. One of her strategies for Facebook is helping you to grow your email list. Sherri-Lee explains that Facebook does walk you through the basics of the foundational setup, however, they don't tell you exactly why you're doing what you need to be doing, so she will be covering some of that with you, today. Listen in now, to find out what you really need to know, about how to set up your Business Facebook Page, as a foundation for your business. Show highlights: Sherri-Lee explains how to set up a Facebook Page for a business. If you have already done yours, Sherri-Lee recommends that you check it every six months, to ensure that your information is both current and relevant, as things do change. Setting a custom domain name, or a custom URL. Remember though, that once you've set it you can't change it. When you should consider setting your domain name as your personal name, rather than your business name and vice versa. Thinking towards the future, about how you're going to build your best relationships and connections with people. If you're a smaller business and you want to build your business relationships, you can use Facebook to help you to deepen those connections. How to best deal with your profile image. Ask yourself if people are going to feel more connected to your business if they can see your face in the profile picture, as opposed to a logo, or if they can see your name, as opposed to a company name. If you're a smaller business, people are going to want to see your face, as it personalizes your business. The cover image is a great opportunity to share what you do and who you serve, with your prospective audience. An emotionally responsive image for your audience can work really well here- before and after images could work well for Designers. Sherri-Lee suggests using tools like Picmonkey or Canva to help you to size your photos for your profile and cover images. How to add information via the comments of your cover image. You want to make sure that you fill out the sections on your page, like the 'about' section and then check them every six months. What to post that will work best for you. If you used your Facebook Page in the same way that you use your profile, your engagement would change. Stop being so professional that you only market on your page. Be personal and post a variety of content and share some of your personality. People want to know who you are and what you stand for. Post more often than you think you should- like three to five times a day. Facebook grades your likes, comments, and shares. Sharing has the highest score and so gets the most reach. To know the best time to post on your Facebook page- Within the settings tab, on your Facebook page, you can click on posts and see a graph, which represents the time of day that people who like your posts, are on Facebook. Use your posts to get to know what people want from you, on your page. Get people to answer questions on your page, to get them to remember you. A Gift For You: If you want to learn more about how to use your Facebook Page for business, Sherri-Lee has a  free five-day program, Facebook For Business Made Easy Program, which is available at www.socialmediaminder.com/fbmadeeasy Links: Sherri's Website: http://www.socialmediaminder.com Sherri's Twitter: https://twitter.com/socialmediamndr Sherri's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialMediaMinder/ Wed, 23 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have the second show in our Facebook Coaching series. If you missed the first show, it was episode #215, where LuAnn spoke with Kate O'Hara, the Marketing and Business Development Director at Martha O'Hara Interiors. There she spoke about how... Today we have the second show in our Facebook Coaching series. If you missed the first show, it was episode #215, where LuAnn spoke with Kate O'Hara, the Marketing and Business Development Director at Martha O'Hara Interiors. There she spoke about how to build your following on your Facebook Business Page. Martha O'Hara Interiors has over two hundred thousand followers, so she really has some pretty good advice for you there, so be sure to go and check that show out. Today's show is with Sherri-Lee Woycik, a Facebook Marketing and Ads expert and she's also the founder of Social Media Minder. She really loves helping heart centered entrepreneurs get more customers and clients from Facebook. She provides Social Media Services to business owners through a range of services, which include boot camps, one on one, group and self-study training and she also offers 'done for you' strategies and implementation. Sherri-Lee is an authorized local expert for constant contact and she uses this Facebook platform herself and she encourages her clients to use it too because this really is a platform for growing your email list. One of her strategies for Facebook is helping you to grow your email list. Sherri-Lee explains that Facebook does walk you through the basics of the foundational setup, however, they don't tell you exactly why you're doing what you need to be doing, so she will be covering some of that with you, today. Listen in now, to find out what you really need to know, about how to set up your Business Facebook Page, as a foundation for your business. Show highlights: Sherri-Lee explains how to set up a Facebook Page for a business. If you have already done yours, Sherri-Lee recommends that you check it every six months, to ensure that your information is both current and relevant, as things do change. Setting a custom domain name, or a custom URL. Remember though, that once you've set it you can't change it. When you should consider setting your domain name as your personal name, rather than your business name and vice versa. Thinking towards the future, about how you're going to build your best relationships and connections with people. If you're a smaller business and you want to build your business relationships, you can use Facebook to help you to deepen those connections. How to best deal with your profile image. Ask yourself if people are going to feel more connected to your business if they can see your face in the profile picture, as opposed to a logo, or if they can see your name, as opposed to a company name. If you're a smaller business, people are going to want to see your face, as it personalizes your business. The cover image is a great opportunity to share what you do and who you serve, with your prospective audience. An emotionally responsive image for your audience can work really well here- before and after images could work well for Designers. Sherri-Lee suggests using tools like Picmonkey or Canva to help you to size your photos for your profile and cover images. How to add information via the comments of your cover image. You want to make sure that you fill out the sections on your page, like the 'about' section and then check them every six months. What to post that will work best for you. If you used your Facebook Page in the same way that you use your profile, your engagement would change. Stop being so professional that you only market on your page. Be personal and post a variety of content and share some of your personality. People want to know who you are and what you stand for. Post more often than you think you should- like three to five times a day. Facebook grades your likes, comments, and shares. Sharing has the highest score and so gets the most reach. To know the best time to post on your Facebook page- Within the settings tab, on your Facebook page, you can click on posts and see a graph, which represents the time of day that people who like your posts, are on Facebook. Use your posts to get to know what people want from you, on your page. Get people to answer questions on your page, to get them to remember you. A Gift For You: If you want to learn more about how to use your Facebook Page for business, Sherri-Lee has a  free five-day program, Facebook For Business Made Easy Program, which is available at www.socialmediaminder.com/fbmadeeasy Links: Sherri's Website: http://www.socialmediaminder.com Sherri's Twitter: https://twitter.com/socialmediamndr Sherri's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialMediaMinder/ Today we have the second show in our Facebook Coaching series. If you missed the first show, it was episode #215, where LuAnn spoke with Kate O'Hara, the Marketing and Business Development Director at Martha O'Hara Interiors. There she spoke about how to build your following on your Facebook Business Page. Martha O'Hara Interiors has over two hundred thousand followers, so she really has some pretty good advice for you there, so be sure to go and check that show out.

Today's show is with Sherri-Lee Woycik, a Facebook Marketing and Ads expert and she's also the founder of Social Media Minder. She really loves helping heart centered entrepreneurs get more customers and clients from Facebook. She provides Social Media Services to business owners through a range of services, which include boot camps, one on one, group and self-study training and she also offers 'done for you' strategies and implementation. Sherri-Lee is an authorized local expert for constant contact and she uses this Facebook platform herself and she encourages her clients to use it too because this really is a platform for growing your email list. One of her strategies for Facebook is helping you to grow your email list. Sherri-Lee explains that Facebook does walk you through the basics of the foundational setup, however, they don't tell you exactly why you're doing what you need to be doing, so she will be covering some of that with you, today. Listen in now, to find out what you really need to know, about how to set up your Business Facebook Page, as a foundation for your business.

Show highlights:

  • Sherri-Lee explains how to set up a Facebook Page for a business. If you have already done yours, Sherri-Lee recommends that you check it every six months, to ensure that your information is both current and relevant, as things do change.
  • Setting a custom domain name, or a custom URL. Remember though, that once you've set it you can't change it.
  • When you should consider setting your domain name as your personal name, rather than your business name and vice versa.
  • Thinking towards the future, about how you're going to build your best relationships and connections with people. If you're a smaller business and you want to build your business relationships, you can use Facebook to help you to deepen those connections.
  • How to best deal with your profile image. Ask yourself if people are going to feel more connected to your business if they can see your face in the profile picture, as opposed to a logo, or if they can see your name, as opposed to a company name. If you're a smaller business, people are going to want to see your face, as it personalizes your business.
  • The cover image is a great opportunity to share what you do and who you serve, with your prospective audience. An emotionally responsive image for your audience can work really well here- before and after images could work well for Designers.
  • Sherri-Lee suggests using tools like Picmonkey or Canva to help you to size your photos for your profile and cover images.
  • How to add information via the comments of your cover image.
  • You want to make sure that you fill out the sections on your page, like the 'about' section and then check them every six months.
  • What to post that will work best for you. If you used your Facebook Page in the same way that you use your profile, your engagement would change.
  • Stop being so professional that you only market on your page. Be personal and post a variety of content and share some of your personality. People want to know who you are and what you stand for.
  • Post more often than you think you should- like three to five times a day.
  • Facebook grades your likes, comments, and shares. Sharing has the highest score and so gets the most reach.
  • To know the best time to post on your Facebook page- Within the settings tab, on your Facebook page, you can click on posts and see a graph, which represents the time of day that people who like your posts, are on Facebook.
  • Use your posts to get to know what people want from you, on your page.
  • Get people to answer questions on your page, to get them to remember you.

A Gift For You: If you want to learn more about how to use your Facebook Page for business, Sherri-Lee has a  free five-day program, Facebook For Business Made Easy Program, which is available at www.socialmediaminder.com/fbmadeeasy

Links:

Sherri's Website: http://www.socialmediaminder.com

Sherri's Twitter: https://twitter.com/socialmediamndr

Sherri's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialMediaMinder/]]> 3162 no 220: Darci Hether: Literally The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/220-literally-the-things-i-learned Today we have a particularly inspiring episode! If you're the type of businessperson who takes action and can appreciate it when others do too, you're really going to learn a lot from today's guest, Darci Hether. She's on the show today to let you know that if and when you come across new ideas or business strategies, if you not only hear them, but you also implement them, you can change your business for the better. Listen in to find out more. You're going to love this show! Darci began her Design career in 1998, in Southern California, before moving to New York City in 2002.  Once there, she worked as a Lead Designer and Project Manager for notable and award winning firms, like Workshop APD and Vicente Wolf Associates. Then, in 2008 Darci founded Darci Hether New York. She was named 'Rising Star' by New York Cottages and Gardens. Listen in today, as Darci shares how she turned up both the productivity and profitability on her Interior Design Firm, this year.  Show highlights: Darci explains how she went from inspiration to action. Darci found it very difficult to rewrite her bio, so she contacted Fred Berns (#48) for a consultation. Darci explains her new approach to being compensated for the work she does and how she feels about it. She really understands her value now. Darci explains how she managed to implement the new advice she received, after already having been in business for ten years. She was both excited and terrified! How Darci arrived at the fee that she charges for a consultation. There are many hidden things to also be taken into consideration. Darci now brings a contract along with her to an initial consultation, for the client to review. Sometimes a client only needs a consultation with Darci for an hour or two and nothing more. Darci finds that this can work for her, now that she's set a specific fee for her consultations. Darci explains how she's utilized 'time chunking'. Darci explains her thought processes that went into the way that she created her Employee handbook. Darci suggests that you find a trusted colleague that you can reach out to regularly, for support. Some great advice: Go and think of all the things that you've been inspired to do differently, in your business (that you've not yet done), pick one of them, set a time frame and just do it! LuAnn wants you to know that she's been asked to moderate a panel, on Designing Tech, at America's Mart in Atlanta, on the 26th or the 27th of September. The dates have not yet been finalized. She will also be hosting another Facebook Live Event, at the opening celebration of the brand new Kravet Showroom in Philadelphia. This will happen around the first week in October. Final dates still to be announced. Mon, 21 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have a particularly inspiring episode! If you're the type of businessperson who takes action and can appreciate it when others do too, you're really going to learn a lot from today's guest, Darci Hether. She's on the show today to let you... Today we have a particularly inspiring episode! If you're the type of businessperson who takes action and can appreciate it when others do too, you're really going to learn a lot from today's guest, Darci Hether. She's on the show today to let you know that if and when you come across new ideas or business strategies, if you not only hear them, but you also implement them, you can change your business for the better. Listen in to find out more. You're going to love this show! Darci began her Design career in 1998, in Southern California, before moving to New York City in 2002.  Once there, she worked as a Lead Designer and Project Manager for notable and award winning firms, like Workshop APD and Vicente Wolf Associates. Then, in 2008 Darci founded Darci Hether New York. She was named 'Rising Star' by New York Cottages and Gardens. Listen in today, as Darci shares how she turned up both the productivity and profitability on her Interior Design Firm, this year.  Show highlights: Darci explains how she went from inspiration to action. Darci found it very difficult to rewrite her bio, so she contacted Fred Berns (#48) for a consultation. Darci explains her new approach to being compensated for the work she does and how she feels about it. She really understands her value now. Darci explains how she managed to implement the new advice she received, after already having been in business for ten years. She was both excited and terrified! How Darci arrived at the fee that she charges for a consultation. There are many hidden things to also be taken into consideration. Darci now brings a contract along with her to an initial consultation, for the client to review. Sometimes a client only needs a consultation with Darci for an hour or two and nothing more. Darci finds that this can work for her, now that she's set a specific fee for her consultations. Darci explains how she's utilized 'time chunking'. Darci explains her thought processes that went into the way that she created her Employee handbook. Darci suggests that you find a trusted colleague that you can reach out to regularly, for support. Some great advice: Go and think of all the things that you've been inspired to do differently, in your business (that you've not yet done), pick one of them, set a time frame and just do it! LuAnn wants you to know that she's been asked to moderate a panel, on Designing Tech, at America's Mart in Atlanta, on the 26th or the 27th of September. The dates have not yet been finalized. She will also be hosting another Facebook Live Event, at the opening celebration of the brand new Kravet Showroom in Philadelphia. This will happen around the first week in October. Final dates still to be announced. Today we have a particularly inspiring episode! If you're the type of businessperson who takes action and can appreciate it when others do too, you're really going to learn a lot from today's guest, Darci Hether. She's on the show today to let you know that if and when you come across new ideas or business strategies, if you not only hear them, but you also implement them, you can change your business for the better. Listen in to find out more. You're going to love this show!

Darci began her Design career in 1998, in Southern California, before moving to New York City in 2002.  Once there, she worked as a Lead Designer and Project Manager for notable and award winning firms, like Workshop APD and Vicente Wolf Associates. Then, in 2008 Darci founded Darci Hether New York. She was named 'Rising Star' by New York Cottages and Gardens. Listen in today, as Darci shares how she turned up both the productivity and profitability on her Interior Design Firm, this year.

 Show highlights:

  • Darci explains how she went from inspiration to action.
  • Darci found it very difficult to rewrite her bio, so she contacted Fred Berns (#48) for a consultation.
  • Darci explains her new approach to being compensated for the work she does and how she feels about it. She really understands her value now.
  • Darci explains how she managed to implement the new advice she received, after already having been in business for ten years. She was both excited and terrified!
  • How Darci arrived at the fee that she charges for a consultation. There are many hidden things to also be taken into consideration.
  • Darci now brings a contract along with her to an initial consultation, for the client to review.
  • Sometimes a client only needs a consultation with Darci for an hour or two and nothing more. Darci finds that this can work for her, now that she's set a specific fee for her consultations.
  • Darci explains how she's utilized 'time chunking'.
  • Darci explains her thought processes that went into the way that she created her Employee handbook.
  • Darci suggests that you find a trusted colleague that you can reach out to regularly, for support.
  • Some great advice: Go and think of all the things that you've been inspired to do differently, in your business (that you've not yet done), pick one of them, set a time frame and just do it!

LuAnn wants you to know that she's been asked to moderate a panel, on Designing Tech, at America's Mart in Atlanta, on the 26th or the 27th of September. The dates have not yet been finalized.

She will also be hosting another Facebook Live Event, at the opening celebration of the brand new Kravet Showroom in Philadelphia. This will happen around the first week in October. Final dates still to be announced.

]]> 4955 no 219: Power Talk Friday: AJ Wilcox: LinkedIn for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/219-power-talk-friday-aj-wilcox-linkedin-for-your-interior-design-business The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is A.J.Wilcox and he brings a brand new topic to the show. In the more than two hundred episodes that have aired over the past year and a half, we have never before discussed Linkedin and so A.J. has just become our Linkedin Guru. LuAnn has never considered Linkedin to be a particularly hot platform for the Interior Design Industry, because Interior Design is a very visual industry, which makes use of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and Linkedin seems a little serious by comparison. LuAnn does have a Linkedin profile, however she does literally nothing at all with it. In fact, she recently told a story on one of the podcasts about a Designer who reached out to her with a private message on Linkedin, complimenting her about the show and LuAnn knew nothing about it for almost three months! She knows, however, that every bit of social media and marketing is really valuable and if you're going to do something, you need to do it right, so she's really glad to have A.J. on the show with her today. Listen in to find out what you really need to know about Linkedin.    A.J.'s a tri-athlete and he lives in Utah with his wife and four kids.  He fell in love with Linkedin back in 2011 and he liked it so much that he started an agency which focuses on Linkedin ads only. When LuAnn found out that his company car is a go-cart, she knew that this was going to be a really fun interview!  Listen in to find out how Linkedin can really work for you, as Designers. It's a very good platform for being professional.   Show highlights:   A.J. explains some of the basics of Linkedin and where it's value really lies. Some really nice short cuts that you can take, when setting up with Linkedin, to get what you do out there and in everybody's minds. You can ignore the rules and work out of the box! About three or four months ago, Linkedin underwent a re-design and changed a whole bunch of stuff around. Now they've added a free form field, for your profile. Use that to explain what you're all about and why people should care about you and want to hire you. There are portfolio editions of Linkedin, where you can add video clips. This is very powerful to help you prove your worth. A.J. would not necessarily treat the resume section of the Linkedin profile as such. He would rather talk about the results you've had and why you're worth paying attention to. Linkedin seems a bit stiff and professional, so it's worth injecting your unique personality into it, to make you really stand out. Talk simply on Linkedin and assume that nobody has any idea of what it is that you do, so you'll be educating them. Try to be fun, because then you really will stand out. A.J. has a really cool hack, for getting yourself out there on Linkedin. Linkedin bought a company called Pulse, which is a news app, with the goal to bring people to their platform more regularly and to get them to spend more time there. They've made it socially interactive, so you can comment and like- and even go viral. If you post your status on a project on  Linkedin, all your contacts will see it. This is a really great opportunity to connect with some powerful business people with a great deal of disposable income. A post on Linkedin can even stay up on your feed for a day and a half. This can really save you time. You want to generate a reaction. Ask for feedback. You want people to comment so that your post spreads.  Run a quiz or ask a question, to get people to react. You can now tag people on Linkedin. Endorsing for skill sets- This is to provide social proof of your most proficient skill sets. Be very targeted about who you want to have relationships with and who you want introductions to, on Linkedin.  Once you're connected to someone on Linkedin, you have unlimited free messages between the two of you. You also then have access to their email address.  The benefits of upgrading to the paid version of Linkedin- their Premium Profile.  The Influencers on Linkedin.  If you write an article that gets a lot of response, it could be kicked up and get to reach a huge number of people. How to write an article on Linkedin. It's just like writing a full blog post, with features and all. Use Linkedin to drive traffic to your website. You can also find specific groups on Linkedin and interact with people there. It's a great way to grow your network. Connect with AJ: His website http://b2linked.com  His twitter @B2Linked   His LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/B2Linked Fri, 18 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 Power Talk Friday: AJ Wilcox: LinkedIn for Your Interior Design Business full 219 LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is A.J.Wilcox and he brings a brand new topic to the show. In the more than two hundred episodes that have aired over the past year and a half, we have never before discussed Linkedin and so A.J. has just become... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is A.J.Wilcox and he brings a brand new topic to the show. In the more than two hundred episodes that have aired over the past year and a half, we have never before discussed Linkedin and so A.J. has just become our Linkedin Guru. LuAnn has never considered Linkedin to be a particularly hot platform for the Interior Design Industry, because Interior Design is a very visual industry, which makes use of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and Linkedin seems a little serious by comparison. LuAnn does have a Linkedin profile, however she does literally nothing at all with it. In fact, she recently told a story on one of the podcasts about a Designer who reached out to her with a private message on Linkedin, complimenting her about the show and LuAnn knew nothing about it for almost three months! She knows, however, that every bit of social media and marketing is really valuable and if you're going to do something, you need to do it right, so she's really glad to have A.J. on the show with her today. Listen in to find out what you really need to know about Linkedin.    A.J.'s a tri-athlete and he lives in Utah with his wife and four kids.  He fell in love with Linkedin back in 2011 and he liked it so much that he started an agency which focuses on Linkedin ads only. When LuAnn found out that his company car is a go-cart, she knew that this was going to be a really fun interview!  Listen in to find out how Linkedin can really work for you, as Designers. It's a very good platform for being professional.   Show highlights:   A.J. explains some of the basics of Linkedin and where it's value really lies. Some really nice short cuts that you can take, when setting up with Linkedin, to get what you do out there and in everybody's minds. You can ignore the rules and work out of the box! About three or four months ago, Linkedin underwent a re-design and changed a whole bunch of stuff around. Now they've added a free form field, for your profile. Use that to explain what you're all about and why people should care about you and want to hire you. There are portfolio editions of Linkedin, where you can add video clips. This is very powerful to help you prove your worth. A.J. would not necessarily treat the resume section of the Linkedin profile as such. He would rather talk about the results you've had and why you're worth paying attention to. Linkedin seems a bit stiff and professional, so it's worth injecting your unique personality into it, to make you really stand out. Talk simply on Linkedin and assume that nobody has any idea of what it is that you do, so you'll be educating them. Try to be fun, because then you really will stand out. A.J. has a really cool hack, for getting yourself out there on Linkedin. Linkedin bought a company called Pulse, which is a news app, with the goal to bring people to their platform more regularly and to get them to spend more time there. They've made it socially interactive, so you can comment and like- and even go viral. If you post your status on a project on  Linkedin, all your contacts will see it. This is a really great opportunity to connect with some powerful business people with a great deal of disposable income. A post on Linkedin can even stay up on your feed for a day and a half. This can really save you time. You want to generate a reaction. Ask for feedback. You want people to comment so that your post spreads.  Run a quiz or ask a question, to get people to react. You can now tag people on Linkedin. Endorsing for skill sets- This is to provide social proof of your most proficient skill sets. Be very targeted about who you want to have relationships with and who you want introductions to, on Linkedin.  Once you're connected to someone on Linkedin, you have unlimited free messages between the two of you. You also then have access to their email address.  The benefits of upgrading to the paid version of Linkedin- their Premium Profile.  The Influencers on Linkedin.  If you write an article that gets a lot of response, it could be kicked up and get to reach a huge number of people. How to write an article on Linkedin. It's just like writing a full blog post, with features and all. Use Linkedin to drive traffic to your website. You can also find specific groups on Linkedin and interact with people there. It's a great way to grow your network. Connect with AJ: His website http://b2linked.com  His twitter @B2Linked   His LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/B2Linked The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is A.J.Wilcox and he brings a brand new topic to the show. In the more than two hundred episodes that have aired over the past year and a half, we have never before discussed Linkedin and so A.J. has just become our Linkedin Guru. LuAnn has never considered Linkedin to be a particularly hot platform for the Interior Design Industry, because Interior Design is a very visual industry, which makes use of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and Linkedin seems a little serious by comparison.

LuAnn does have a Linkedin profile, however she does literally nothing at all with it. In fact, she recently told a story on one of the podcasts about a Designer who reached out to her with a private message on Linkedin, complimenting her about the show and LuAnn knew nothing about it for almost three months! She knows, however, that every bit of social media and marketing is really valuable and if you're going to do something, you need to do it right, so she's really glad to have A.J. on the show with her today. Listen in to find out what you really need to know about Linkedin. 

 

A.J.'s a tri-athlete and he lives in Utah with his wife and four kids.  He fell in love with Linkedin back in 2011 and he liked it so much that he started an agency which focuses on Linkedin ads only. When LuAnn found out that his company car is a go-cart, she knew that this was going to be a really fun interview!  Listen in to find out how Linkedin can really work for you, as Designers. It's a very good platform for being professional.

 

Show highlights:

 

  • A.J. explains some of the basics of Linkedin and where it's value really lies.
  • Some really nice short cuts that you can take, when setting up with Linkedin, to get what you do out there and in everybody's minds. You can ignore the rules and work out of the box!
  • About three or four months ago, Linkedin underwent a re-design and changed a whole bunch of stuff around. Now they've added a free form field, for your profile. Use that to explain what you're all about and why people should care about you and want to hire you.
  • There are portfolio editions of Linkedin, where you can add video clips. This is very powerful to help you prove your worth.
  • A.J. would not necessarily treat the resume section of the Linkedin profile as such. He would rather talk about the results you've had and why you're worth paying attention to.
  • Linkedin seems a bit stiff and professional, so it's worth injecting your unique personality into it, to make you really stand out.
  • Talk simply on Linkedin and assume that nobody has any idea of what it is that you do, so you'll be educating them. Try to be fun, because then you really will stand out.
  • A.J. has a really cool hack, for getting yourself out there on Linkedin.
  • Linkedin bought a company called Pulse, which is a news app, with the goal to bring people to their platform more regularly and to get them to spend more time there. They've made it socially interactive, so you can comment and like- and even go viral.
  • If you post your status on a project on  Linkedin, all your contacts will see it. This is a really great opportunity to connect with some powerful business people with a great deal of disposable income.
  • A post on Linkedin can even stay up on your feed for a day and a half. This can really save you time.
  • You want to generate a reaction. Ask for feedback. You want people to comment so that your post spreads. 
  • Run a quiz or ask a question, to get people to react.
  • You can now tag people on Linkedin.
  • Endorsing for skill sets- This is to provide social proof of your most proficient skill sets.
  • Be very targeted about who you want to have relationships with and who you want introductions to, on Linkedin. 
  • Once you're connected to someone on Linkedin, you have unlimited free messages between the two of you. You also then have access to their email address. 
  • The benefits of upgrading to the paid version of Linkedin- their Premium Profile. 
  • The Influencers on Linkedin.  If you write an article that gets a lot of response, it could be kicked up and get to reach a huge number of people.
  • How to write an article on Linkedin. It's just like writing a full blog post, with features and all.
  • Use Linkedin to drive traffic to your website.
  • You can also find specific groups on Linkedin and interact with people there. It's a great way to grow your network.

Connect with AJ:

His website

http://b2linked.com 

His twitter @B2Linked   His LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/B2Linked]]> 3429 no 218: Marketing & Resources for Cruelty Free Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/218-marketing-resources-for-cruelty-free-design Today, we have the second show in our sponsored content series by Cruelty Free Design. Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design and the founder and creator of Cruelty Free Design, has sponsored three shows. The first show was episode #212, where we spoke in depth about Cruelty Free Design and the program that she has developed. Today's show is going to feature the marketing and the resources that you get, when going through the Cruelty Free Course. The third show will be airing in a few weeks and that will be an interview with a Designer who has completed the course. If all this is new information for you, if you haven't heard any of these shows before, LuAnn suggests that you start off by listening to episode #82, where we first met Deborah Rosenberg, a really smart lady who runs a great business, and there she discussed her Design Firm, DiMare Design in Miami. Then, in episode #117, we discussed her certified Cruelty Free Course in more depth and about how it was getting ready to launch. LuAnn really hopes that you're enjoying this series and that it's something that's making you think. If animal rights, veganism and Cruelty Free is a passion of yours, all the better, because it certainly is a very profitable avenue to consider, from a marketing standpoint. Listen in now, to find out more. In today's show, we are going to talk about the second set of information, which is important for you, as Interior Designers in this emerging field. Here's the thing about Deborah- if you go back and listen to the other episodes with her, you'll see and hear her commitment for yourself.  She's the creator of a fully accredited, online educational course, geared for students, designers, retailers, manufacturers and companies, in the Design and Textile Industry. The course, Certified Cruelty Free, educates businesses and consumers about Cruelty Free alternatives and provides them with vegan resources. Deborah donates a portion of all the proceeds from both companies, towards saving the lives of animals, killed for their skins, in the industry. This is really a mission of love, for Deborah. Listen in as we talk about the resources that are available to you, as Interior Designers and also about how you, as a Designer, would approach the marketing of these products. (Remember, that if you actually take the course, you will get access to the full 'bible' of resources.) Show highlights: Deborah gives a quick description of what Vegan Design is all about. Deborah discusses some of the fabulous alternatives that can be used, instead of wool, silk or animal skins. The faux alternatives are durable and well priced. Even Bentley, (the car) who were known for their leather interiors, are coming up with a vegan car as an alternative, because their consumers are now demanding vegan interiors. Banana silk looks and feels exactly like silk. It even has that sheen. Kravet have a huge amount of faux leathers as well as tons of other resources and fabrics which are vegan. Deborah's company is reaching out to many manufacturers, to have their badge put on the fabrics which are acceptable as vegan alternatives. According to research, one in three Australians are willing to pay more for socially responsible products. Deborah's company now has it's own line, called Arthur Avenue, which has completely vegan custom upholstery pieces. There are also vegan alternatives available for the less expensive lines. There is a company in New York, called Aurora Lampshades, who do vegan lighting alternatives. A lot of paint contains a mineral which comes from cows. Vegan paints are available, however they are a little difficult to apply. How a Designer can go about approaching clients about this subject. Faux leather actually performs better than real leather, when they are placed side by side. Vegan alternatives are most conducive to someone who has allergies, or even to children with autism. There is a huge network of support available for Designers doing the Cruelty Free Course. Deborah offers some great tips for marketing vegan options. The key is really to surround yourself with like minded people. Vegan Design is not only about the animals. About ninety percent of the people working in tanneries in India die before the age of fifty, due to the disgraceful environments that they work in. The world is changing really fast. Over half of all Americans won't buy a product that they believe to be unethical. Creating a peaceful space that has no blood, or tragedy in it. Deborah explains all about her Cruelty Free Course. Go to www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net to get the details, or to sign up. The course is usually $350, however if you put in the promo code  LuAnn, you will get 20% off, so you will only pay $280. After doing the course, you will be added to Deborah's database. Wed, 16 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today, we have the second show in our sponsored content series by Cruelty Free Design. Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design and the founder and creator of Cruelty Free Design, has sponsored three shows. The first show was episode #212, where we spoke... Today, we have the second show in our sponsored content series by Cruelty Free Design. Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design and the founder and creator of Cruelty Free Design, has sponsored three shows. The first show was episode #212, where we spoke in depth about Cruelty Free Design and the program that she has developed. Today's show is going to feature the marketing and the resources that you get, when going through the Cruelty Free Course. The third show will be airing in a few weeks and that will be an interview with a Designer who has completed the course. If all this is new information for you, if you haven't heard any of these shows before, LuAnn suggests that you start off by listening to episode #82, where we first met Deborah Rosenberg, a really smart lady who runs a great business, and there she discussed her Design Firm, DiMare Design in Miami. Then, in episode #117, we discussed her certified Cruelty Free Course in more depth and about how it was getting ready to launch. LuAnn really hopes that you're enjoying this series and that it's something that's making you think. If animal rights, veganism and Cruelty Free is a passion of yours, all the better, because it certainly is a very profitable avenue to consider, from a marketing standpoint. Listen in now, to find out more. In today's show, we are going to talk about the second set of information, which is important for you, as Interior Designers in this emerging field. Here's the thing about Deborah- if you go back and listen to the other episodes with her, you'll see and hear her commitment for yourself.  She's the creator of a fully accredited, online educational course, geared for students, designers, retailers, manufacturers and companies, in the Design and Textile Industry. The course, Certified Cruelty Free, educates businesses and consumers about Cruelty Free alternatives and provides them with vegan resources. Deborah donates a portion of all the proceeds from both companies, towards saving the lives of animals, killed for their skins, in the industry. This is really a mission of love, for Deborah. Listen in as we talk about the resources that are available to you, as Interior Designers and also about how you, as a Designer, would approach the marketing of these products. (Remember, that if you actually take the course, you will get access to the full 'bible' of resources.) Show highlights: Deborah gives a quick description of what Vegan Design is all about. Deborah discusses some of the fabulous alternatives that can be used, instead of wool, silk or animal skins. The faux alternatives are durable and well priced. Even Bentley, (the car) who were known for their leather interiors, are coming up with a vegan car as an alternative, because their consumers are now demanding vegan interiors. Banana silk looks and feels exactly like silk. It even has that sheen. Kravet have a huge amount of faux leathers as well as tons of other resources and fabrics which are vegan. Deborah's company is reaching out to many manufacturers, to have their badge put on the fabrics which are acceptable as vegan alternatives. According to research, one in three Australians are willing to pay more for socially responsible products. Deborah's company now has it's own line, called Arthur Avenue, which has completely vegan custom upholstery pieces. There are also vegan alternatives available for the less expensive lines. There is a company in New York, called Aurora Lampshades, who do vegan lighting alternatives. A lot of paint contains a mineral which comes from cows. Vegan paints are available, however they are a little difficult to apply. How a Designer can go about approaching clients about this subject. Faux leather actually performs better than real leather, when they are placed side by side. Vegan alternatives are most conducive to someone who has allergies, or even to children with autism. There is a huge network of support available for Designers doing the Cruelty Free Course. Deborah offers some great tips for marketing vegan options. The key is really to surround yourself with like minded people. Vegan Design is not only about the animals. About ninety percent of the people working in tanneries in India die before the age of fifty, due to the disgraceful environments that they work in. The world is changing really fast. Over half of all Americans won't buy a product that they believe to be unethical. Creating a peaceful space that has no blood, or tragedy in it. Deborah explains all about her Cruelty Free Course. Go to www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net to get the details, or to sign up. The course is usually $350, however if you put in the promo code  LuAnn, you will get 20% off, so you will only pay $280. After doing the course, you will be added to Deborah's database. Today, we have the second show in our sponsored content series by Cruelty Free Design. Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Design and the founder and creator of Cruelty Free Design, has sponsored three shows. The first show was episode #212, where we spoke in depth about Cruelty Free Design and the program that she has developed. Today's show is going to feature the marketing and the resources that you get, when going through the Cruelty Free Course. The third show will be airing in a few weeks and that will be an interview with a Designer who has completed the course. If all this is new information for you, if you haven't heard any of these shows before, LuAnn suggests that you start off by listening to episode #82, where we first met Deborah Rosenberg, a really smart lady who runs a great business, and there she discussed her Design Firm, DiMare Design in Miami. Then, in episode #117, we discussed her certified Cruelty Free Course in more depth and about how it was getting ready to launch. LuAnn really hopes that you're enjoying this series and that it's something that's making you think. If animal rights, veganism and Cruelty Free is a passion of yours, all the better, because it certainly is a very profitable avenue to consider, from a marketing standpoint. Listen in now, to find out more.

In today's show, we are going to talk about the second set of information, which is important for you, as Interior Designers in this emerging field. Here's the thing about Deborah- if you go back and listen to the other episodes with her, you'll see and hear her commitment for yourself.  She's the creator of a fully accredited, online educational course, geared for students, designers, retailers, manufacturers and companies, in the Design and Textile Industry. The course, Certified Cruelty Free, educates businesses and consumers about Cruelty Free alternatives and provides them with vegan resources. Deborah donates a portion of all the proceeds from both companies, towards saving the lives of animals, killed for their skins, in the industry. This is really a mission of love, for Deborah. Listen in as we talk about the resources that are available to you, as Interior Designers and also about how you, as a Designer, would approach the marketing of these products. (Remember, that if you actually take the course, you will get access to the full 'bible' of resources.)

Show highlights:

  • Deborah gives a quick description of what Vegan Design is all about.
  • Deborah discusses some of the fabulous alternatives that can be used, instead of wool, silk or animal skins. The faux alternatives are durable and well priced.
  • Even Bentley, (the car) who were known for their leather interiors, are coming up with a vegan car as an alternative, because their consumers are now demanding vegan interiors.
  • Banana silk looks and feels exactly like silk. It even has that sheen.
  • Kravet have a huge amount of faux leathers as well as tons of other resources and fabrics which are vegan.
  • Deborah's company is reaching out to many manufacturers, to have their badge put on the fabrics which are acceptable as vegan alternatives.
  • According to research, one in three Australians are willing to pay more for socially responsible products.
  • Deborah's company now has it's own line, called Arthur Avenue, which has completely vegan custom upholstery pieces.
  • There are also vegan alternatives available for the less expensive lines.
  • There is a company in New York, called Aurora Lampshades, who do vegan lighting alternatives.
  • A lot of paint contains a mineral which comes from cows. Vegan paints are available, however they are a little difficult to apply.
  • How a Designer can go about approaching clients about this subject.
  • Faux leather actually performs better than real leather, when they are placed side by side.
  • Vegan alternatives are most conducive to someone who has allergies, or even to children with autism.
  • There is a huge network of support available for Designers doing the Cruelty Free Course.
  • Deborah offers some great tips for marketing vegan options. The key is really to surround yourself with like minded people.
  • Vegan Design is not only about the animals. About ninety percent of the people working in tanneries in India die before the age of fifty, due to the disgraceful environments that they work in.
  • The world is changing really fast. Over half of all Americans won't buy a product that they believe to be unethical.
  • Creating a peaceful space that has no blood, or tragedy in it.

Deborah explains all about her Cruelty Free Course. Go to www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net to get the details, or to sign up. The course is usually $350, however if you put in the promo code  LuAnn, you will get 20% off, so you will only pay $280. After doing the course, you will be added to Deborah's database.

]]> 2774 no 217: Anna Kenoff - The Morpholio App For Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/217-anna-kenoff-the-morpholio-app-for-your-interior-design-business Have you heard of the Morpholio Project yet?  Well, today LuAnn has something pretty cool to share with you. Morpholio is an IOS app and LuAnn has the co-creator, Anna Kenoff, with her, on the show. This app was designed as a tool for your presentations, for working with and collaborating and critiquing presentations, with your clients.  The news about this app has been featured in Wired, Fast Company, USA Today, ABC News, Arch Daily, Dwell and also a dozen other outlets. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to like this awesome and groundbreaking app for your design business, so listen in to find out more about how it can really save you time and energy! Anna,  is an Architect who found a need, while doing her work. Like many other brilliant people that have been featured on the show this past year, she gathered some of her smart friends and together and they built an answer to her problems. And so, Morpholio was born! Anna has had some really significant projects, as an Architect, including the Queen's library, in collaboration with New York City's Design Excellence Program, New York's first edible school yard, in Brooklyn and Public Farm One, commissioned by Moma PS One. She has a Master's in Architecture, from Columbia University and a Bachelor's of Science in Architecture, from the University of Virginia. Listen in now, to find out more about this really innovative new app and it's really awesome features for Designers.   Show highlights: Anna explains what Morpholio is all about, what it comprises of and how she came up with it. Anna walks you through how a Morpholio Board will work for you, in real time, during a presentation. Anna explains some of the technicalities of working with the Morpholio Mood Board. Morpholio has a curated library of thousands of amazing pieces of furniture, fixtures, fittings and finishes. Anna explains how this works for you, when you're designing a Mood Board with Morpholio- and you can create and add your own library too. The really sophisticated and smart tools that Anna and her team create for iPads. Morpholio can really hold tons of information, in a much smaller format. Pinterest is such an important way that Designers and their clients communicate, so Morpholio has a portal directly to Pinterest. Morpholio has recently partnered with Pinterest, so it's the only app on the planet that they are allowing to portal into your Secret Boards. You can adjust the colors on the images, with Morpholio. The research mindset that Anna and her team started out with. How you, as a Designer, could use Pinterest in conjunction with Morpholio. You can actually manipulate the images when you import them into Morpholio. Morpholio is a really efficient tool for smaller businesses- and its almost revived the iPad! How to become a member of Morpholio. Go to #morpholioboard on Instagram and have a look! It really doesn't cost much, to use Morpholio. It's only $3,99 for the Entry Level App and $11,99 for the Pro Version.   Links:   The Morpholio website: www.morpholioapps.com   You can also find Morpholio on Facebook and Instagram Mon, 14 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Have you heard of the Morpholio Project yet?  Well, today LuAnn has something pretty cool to share with you. Morpholio is an IOS app and LuAnn has the co-creator, Anna Kenoff, with her, on the show. This app was designed as a tool for your... Have you heard of the Morpholio Project yet?  Well, today LuAnn has something pretty cool to share with you. Morpholio is an IOS app and LuAnn has the co-creator, Anna Kenoff, with her, on the show. This app was designed as a tool for your presentations, for working with and collaborating and critiquing presentations, with your clients.  The news about this app has been featured in Wired, Fast Company, USA Today, ABC News, Arch Daily, Dwell and also a dozen other outlets. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to like this awesome and groundbreaking app for your design business, so listen in to find out more about how it can really save you time and energy! Anna,  is an Architect who found a need, while doing her work. Like many other brilliant people that have been featured on the show this past year, she gathered some of her smart friends and together and they built an answer to her problems. And so, Morpholio was born! Anna has had some really significant projects, as an Architect, including the Queen's library, in collaboration with New York City's Design Excellence Program, New York's first edible school yard, in Brooklyn and Public Farm One, commissioned by Moma PS One. She has a Master's in Architecture, from Columbia University and a Bachelor's of Science in Architecture, from the University of Virginia. Listen in now, to find out more about this really innovative new app and it's really awesome features for Designers.   Show highlights: Anna explains what Morpholio is all about, what it comprises of and how she came up with it. Anna walks you through how a Morpholio Board will work for you, in real time, during a presentation. Anna explains some of the technicalities of working with the Morpholio Mood Board. Morpholio has a curated library of thousands of amazing pieces of furniture, fixtures, fittings and finishes. Anna explains how this works for you, when you're designing a Mood Board with Morpholio- and you can create and add your own library too. The really sophisticated and smart tools that Anna and her team create for iPads. Morpholio can really hold tons of information, in a much smaller format. Pinterest is such an important way that Designers and their clients communicate, so Morpholio has a portal directly to Pinterest. Morpholio has recently partnered with Pinterest, so it's the only app on the planet that they are allowing to portal into your Secret Boards. You can adjust the colors on the images, with Morpholio. The research mindset that Anna and her team started out with. How you, as a Designer, could use Pinterest in conjunction with Morpholio. You can actually manipulate the images when you import them into Morpholio. Morpholio is a really efficient tool for smaller businesses- and its almost revived the iPad! How to become a member of Morpholio. Go to #morpholioboard on Instagram and have a look! It really doesn't cost much, to use Morpholio. It's only $3,99 for the Entry Level App and $11,99 for the Pro Version.   Links:   The Morpholio website: www.morpholioapps.com   You can also find Morpholio on Facebook and Instagram Have you heard of the Morpholio Project yet?  Well, today LuAnn has something pretty cool to share with you. Morpholio is an IOS app and LuAnn has the co-creator, Anna Kenoff, with her, on the show. This app was designed as a tool for your presentations, for working with and collaborating and critiquing presentations, with your clients.  The news about this app has been featured in Wired, Fast Company, USA Today, ABC News, Arch Daily, Dwell and also a dozen other outlets. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to like this awesome and groundbreaking app for your design business, so listen in to find out more about how it can really save you time and energy!

Anna,  is an Architect who found a need, while doing her work. Like many other brilliant people that have been featured on the show this past year, she gathered some of her smart friends and together and they built an answer to her problems. And so, Morpholio was born! Anna has had some really significant projects, as an Architect, including the Queen's library, in collaboration with New York City's Design Excellence Program, New York's first edible school yard, in Brooklyn and Public Farm One, commissioned by Moma PS One. She has a Master's in Architecture, from Columbia University and a Bachelor's of Science in Architecture, from the University of Virginia. Listen in now, to find out more about this really innovative new app and it's really awesome features for Designers.

 

Show highlights:

  • Anna explains what Morpholio is all about, what it comprises of and how she came up with it.
  • Anna walks you through how a Morpholio Board will work for you, in real time, during a presentation.
  • Anna explains some of the technicalities of working with the Morpholio Mood Board.
  • Morpholio has a curated library of thousands of amazing pieces of furniture, fixtures, fittings and finishes. Anna explains how this works for you, when you're designing a Mood Board with Morpholio- and you can create and add your own library too.
  • The really sophisticated and smart tools that Anna and her team create for iPads.
  • Morpholio can really hold tons of information, in a much smaller format.
  • Pinterest is such an important way that Designers and their clients communicate, so Morpholio has a portal directly to Pinterest.
  • Morpholio has recently partnered with Pinterest, so it's the only app on the planet that they are allowing to portal into your Secret Boards.
  • You can adjust the colors on the images, with Morpholio.
  • The research mindset that Anna and her team started out with.
  • How you, as a Designer, could use Pinterest in conjunction with Morpholio.
  • You can actually manipulate the images when you import them into Morpholio.
  • Morpholio is a really efficient tool for smaller businesses- and its almost revived the iPad!
  • How to become a member of Morpholio.
  • Go to #morpholioboard on Instagram and have a look!
  • It really doesn't cost much, to use Morpholio. It's only $3,99 for the Entry Level App and $11,99 for the Pro Version.

 

Links:

 

The Morpholio website: www.morpholioapps.com

 

You can also find Morpholio on Facebook and Instagram

]]> 3496 no 216: Power Talk Friday- Natalie Eckdahl - Biz Chix - Entrepreneur, Business Coach & Podcast Host http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/216-power-talk-friday-natalie-eckdahl-biz-chix-entrepreneur-business-coach-podcast-host The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Natalie Eckdahl and LuAnn is absolutely delighted to welcome her to the show! Natalie has really helped LuAnn in her journey and even after thirty years of being in business, there are things that she's learned from Natalie and taken back to Window Works!  Listen in to find out what Natalie has to share with you today. Natalie is the founder of the Biz Chix Community and she's the host of the Biz Chix Podcast. She's a Business Strategist and a High-Performance Coach, helping high achieving women entrepreneurs to build, grow and scale their businesses and she does this across all industries and time zones. Natalie, who holds an MBA, has been recognized as one of the top women in business to listen to and she's been featured in Inc, Fast Company, Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur. She has twenty years of experience and she's done over two hundred podcast interviews and is famous for doing her really valuable on-air coaching calls. Natalie is a very intuitive lady, who recognizes the little nuggets in people and really helps and moves them.  In addition to all of this, she has a husband, Mark, and three kids, aged two to fifteen. Natalie really is one busy lady! Listen in, as Natalie shares her expertise with you, on the show today. Show highlights: Some of the common things that ring true with people who are struggling with their businesses. Dealing with confidence issues and your mindset, when starting out in business. Let people know what you do, in your business- you never know who is going to have a contact for you. Using the art of balance, with your postings on social media. You really do need a separate business bank account, when starting out in your business. You will really feel like the boss when you eventually transfer your profits to your personal account, for your family to spend, or save. Knowing your numbers in business- this is very important! Also, get some advice from a Tax Professional. It's really worth hiring a book keeper, to get your business set up. Then you can check in with them on a quarterly basis. It will save you time and money, going forward. Focus and work on your strengths. Outsource the things that you really find hard to do. Why, as a Designer, you shouldn't charge too little. Have the confidence to charge what you really are worth. Most women really struggle with issues of confidence. Having an accountability partner really helps. How Natalie mixes her Masterminds. Giving yourself permission to take some time off from work. Remember that Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. Being accountable for your time. You can even hire people to set deadlines for you and help you to get creative things done on time. Developing boundaries with your clients. They often don't realize that they're asking more of you than necessary. If you're married and money's not coming in from your business, your husband is not going to take your business seriously- he's going to think you have a hobby. Creating a regular amount that you can commit to the family will smooth this out and make you feel confident about yourself and your business. Natalie discusses the Live Event that she's planning for Women Entrepreneurs in Orange County, in between San Diego and Los Angeles, from the 18th to the 20th of October this year. Links: Natalie's Podcast: Biz Chix Podcast - Female Entrepreneurs Women in Business You can go to Natalie's website. www.bizchix.com  and click on the yellow 'community' button, to get an invitation to join her free, open Facebook Group for women. Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/bizchixpodcast/ Fri, 11 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Natalie Eckdahl and LuAnn is absolutely delighted to welcome her to the show! Natalie has really helped LuAnn in her journey and even after thirty years of being in business, there are things that she's... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Natalie Eckdahl and LuAnn is absolutely delighted to welcome her to the show! Natalie has really helped LuAnn in her journey and even after thirty years of being in business, there are things that she's learned from Natalie and taken back to Window Works!  Listen in to find out what Natalie has to share with you today. Natalie is the founder of the Biz Chix Community and she's the host of the Biz Chix Podcast. She's a Business Strategist and a High-Performance Coach, helping high achieving women entrepreneurs to build, grow and scale their businesses and she does this across all industries and time zones. Natalie, who holds an MBA, has been recognized as one of the top women in business to listen to and she's been featured in Inc, Fast Company, Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur. She has twenty years of experience and she's done over two hundred podcast interviews and is famous for doing her really valuable on-air coaching calls. Natalie is a very intuitive lady, who recognizes the little nuggets in people and really helps and moves them.  In addition to all of this, she has a husband, Mark, and three kids, aged two to fifteen. Natalie really is one busy lady! Listen in, as Natalie shares her expertise with you, on the show today. Show highlights: Some of the common things that ring true with people who are struggling with their businesses. Dealing with confidence issues and your mindset, when starting out in business. Let people know what you do, in your business- you never know who is going to have a contact for you. Using the art of balance, with your postings on social media. You really do need a separate business bank account, when starting out in your business. You will really feel like the boss when you eventually transfer your profits to your personal account, for your family to spend, or save. Knowing your numbers in business- this is very important! Also, get some advice from a Tax Professional. It's really worth hiring a book keeper, to get your business set up. Then you can check in with them on a quarterly basis. It will save you time and money, going forward. Focus and work on your strengths. Outsource the things that you really find hard to do. Why, as a Designer, you shouldn't charge too little. Have the confidence to charge what you really are worth. Most women really struggle with issues of confidence. Having an accountability partner really helps. How Natalie mixes her Masterminds. Giving yourself permission to take some time off from work. Remember that Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. Being accountable for your time. You can even hire people to set deadlines for you and help you to get creative things done on time. Developing boundaries with your clients. They often don't realize that they're asking more of you than necessary. If you're married and money's not coming in from your business, your husband is not going to take your business seriously- he's going to think you have a hobby. Creating a regular amount that you can commit to the family will smooth this out and make you feel confident about yourself and your business. Natalie discusses the Live Event that she's planning for Women Entrepreneurs in Orange County, in between San Diego and Los Angeles, from the 18th to the 20th of October this year. Links: Natalie's Podcast: Biz Chix Podcast - Female Entrepreneurs Women in Business You can go to Natalie's website. www.bizchix.com  and click on the yellow 'community' button, to get an invitation to join her free, open Facebook Group for women. Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/bizchixpodcast/ The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Natalie Eckdahl and LuAnn is absolutely delighted to welcome her to the show! Natalie has really helped LuAnn in her journey and even after thirty years of being in business, there are things that she's learned from Natalie and taken back to Window Works!  Listen in to find out what Natalie has to share with you today.

Natalie is the founder of the Biz Chix Community and she's the host of the Biz Chix Podcast. She's a Business Strategist and a High-Performance Coach, helping high achieving women entrepreneurs to build, grow and scale their businesses and she does this across all industries and time zones. Natalie, who holds an MBA, has been recognized as one of the top women in business to listen to and she's been featured in Inc, Fast Company, Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur. She has twenty years of experience and she's done over two hundred podcast interviews and is famous for doing her really valuable on-air coaching calls. Natalie is a very intuitive lady, who recognizes the little nuggets in people and really helps and moves them.  In addition to all of this, she has a husband, Mark, and three kids, aged two to fifteen. Natalie really is one busy lady! Listen in, as Natalie shares her expertise with you, on the show today.

Show highlights:

  • Some of the common things that ring true with people who are struggling with their businesses.
  • Dealing with confidence issues and your mindset, when starting out in business.
  • Let people know what you do, in your business- you never know who is going to have a contact for you.
  • Using the art of balance, with your postings on social media.
  • You really do need a separate business bank account, when starting out in your business. You will really feel like the boss when you eventually transfer your profits to your personal account, for your family to spend, or save.
  • Knowing your numbers in business- this is very important! Also, get some advice from a Tax Professional.
  • It's really worth hiring a book keeper, to get your business set up. Then you can check in with them on a quarterly basis. It will save you time and money, going forward.
  • Focus and work on your strengths. Outsource the things that you really find hard to do.
  • Why, as a Designer, you shouldn't charge too little. Have the confidence to charge what you really are worth.
  • Most women really struggle with issues of confidence. Having an accountability partner really helps.
  • How Natalie mixes her Masterminds.
  • Giving yourself permission to take some time off from work. Remember that Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion.
  • Being accountable for your time. You can even hire people to set deadlines for you and help you to get creative things done on time.
  • Developing boundaries with your clients. They often don't realize that they're asking more of you than necessary.
  • If you're married and money's not coming in from your business, your husband is not going to take your business seriously- he's going to think you have a hobby. Creating a regular amount that you can commit to the family will smooth this out and make you feel confident about yourself and your business.
  • Natalie discusses the Live Event that she's planning for Women Entrepreneurs in Orange County, in between San Diego and Los Angeles, from the 18th to the 20th of October this year.

Links:

Natalie's Podcast:

Biz Chix Podcast - Female Entrepreneurs Women in Business

You can go to Natalie's website. www.bizchix.com  and click on the yellow 'community' button, to get an invitation to join her free, open Facebook Group for women.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/bizchixpodcast/]]> 3681 no 215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O”Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/215-facebook-coaching-sessions-show-1-with-kate-ohara-of-martha-ohara-interiors Today, we have Kate O'Hara back on the show. Kate handles the marketing for Martha O'Hara Interiors and she has managed to grow their Facebook Page to two hundred thousand followers- enough to almost make LuAnn's brain explode! A lot of Designers have Facebook Pages, so Kate has graciously agreed to come back on the show, to help you to figure out and understand how you can try to duplicate what she has managed to do for her Design Firm. Listen in as Kate gives you some really actionable ways to do this. Show highlights: It really makes sense to go back and look at how you have things set up on your Facebook Page because every few months, something on Facebook is changing and you don't always know what that is and what you can do that's new. It's important to often check how you're set up and to update your page and your profile, as time passes. Firstly, you need to think about the Facebook platform itself and what you want it to do for you. It can really be so many different things to different businesses. You need to be creating consistent posts that you know your viewers can rely on, that they will The posts need to be relevant to the people who are following you. There is a lot of success to be found in the more subtle nuances of social media- Facebook in particular. For example, are you trying to attract new clients, or are you wanting to build and interact with your community? Putting thought to who you want to reach out to, may change the type of post that you're going to put together. Kate explains how you're going to set up your Facebook Page: 1) Go back and look at how you've set up your business page (this must be separate from your personal page). 2) You may want to adjust your custom URL. 3) Fill in your 'about' page. All that info really is important. 4) Make your page really visually appealing- the cover photo is a huge opportunity for businesses. A Call To Action can even be a contact button. Take the time to fix things that look unprofessional- otherwise, you will appear The posts that you're creating are really important! You need to share your work in ways that are meaningful to the people that you're talking to. They need to be fun and engaging. Ways that you can add that extra layer of fun, or usefulness of the images that you're posting. You will serve yourself best by being as mutually promotional with other firms, as you can be. A little Facebook secret- when you're looking at your news feed, you see both what is recent and what is popular. Likes, shares, and comments are really important! Think quality over quantity. Facebook really gives you great and direct feedback. Go and look at your analytics and adjust your course, if necessary. Pay attention to what people are saying in their comments. Respond, or even edit things, if necessary. You are ultimately in control of the tone that you're willing to accept on your page. Schedule out your posts in batches, to remain consistent and save yourself time. Consistency really is key with your posting.   Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/oharainteriors/   Website: http://oharainteriors.com Wed, 09 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today, we have Kate O'Hara back on the show. Kate handles the marketing for Martha O'Hara Interiors and she has managed to grow their Facebook Page to two hundred thousand followers- enough to almost make LuAnn's brain explode! A lot of Designers have... Today, we have Kate O'Hara back on the show. Kate handles the marketing for Martha O'Hara Interiors and she has managed to grow their Facebook Page to two hundred thousand followers- enough to almost make LuAnn's brain explode! A lot of Designers have Facebook Pages, so Kate has graciously agreed to come back on the show, to help you to figure out and understand how you can try to duplicate what she has managed to do for her Design Firm. Listen in as Kate gives you some really actionable ways to do this. Show highlights: It really makes sense to go back and look at how you have things set up on your Facebook Page because every few months, something on Facebook is changing and you don't always know what that is and what you can do that's new. It's important to often check how you're set up and to update your page and your profile, as time passes. Firstly, you need to think about the Facebook platform itself and what you want it to do for you. It can really be so many different things to different businesses. You need to be creating consistent posts that you know your viewers can rely on, that they will The posts need to be relevant to the people who are following you. There is a lot of success to be found in the more subtle nuances of social media- Facebook in particular. For example, are you trying to attract new clients, or are you wanting to build and interact with your community? Putting thought to who you want to reach out to, may change the type of post that you're going to put together. Kate explains how you're going to set up your Facebook Page: 1) Go back and look at how you've set up your business page (this must be separate from your personal page). 2) You may want to adjust your custom URL. 3) Fill in your 'about' page. All that info really is important. 4) Make your page really visually appealing- the cover photo is a huge opportunity for businesses. A Call To Action can even be a contact button. Take the time to fix things that look unprofessional- otherwise, you will appear The posts that you're creating are really important! You need to share your work in ways that are meaningful to the people that you're talking to. They need to be fun and engaging. Ways that you can add that extra layer of fun, or usefulness of the images that you're posting. You will serve yourself best by being as mutually promotional with other firms, as you can be. A little Facebook secret- when you're looking at your news feed, you see both what is recent and what is popular. Likes, shares, and comments are really important! Think quality over quantity. Facebook really gives you great and direct feedback. Go and look at your analytics and adjust your course, if necessary. Pay attention to what people are saying in their comments. Respond, or even edit things, if necessary. You are ultimately in control of the tone that you're willing to accept on your page. Schedule out your posts in batches, to remain consistent and save yourself time. Consistency really is key with your posting.   Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/oharainteriors/   Website: http://oharainteriors.com Today, we have Kate O'Hara back on the show. Kate handles the marketing for Martha O'Hara Interiors and she has managed to grow their Facebook Page to two hundred thousand followers- enough to almost make LuAnn's brain explode! A lot of Designers have Facebook Pages, so Kate has graciously agreed to come back on the show, to help you to figure out and understand how you can try to duplicate what she has managed to do for her Design Firm. Listen in as Kate gives you some really actionable ways to do this.

Show highlights:

  • It really makes sense to go back and look at how you have things set up on your Facebook Page because every few months, something on Facebook is changing and you don't always know what that is and what you can do that's new. It's important to often check how you're set up and to update your page and your profile, as time passes.
  • Firstly, you need to think about the Facebook platform itself and what you want it to do for you. It can really be so many different things to different businesses.
  • You need to be creating consistent posts that you know your viewers can rely on, that they will The posts need to be relevant to the people who are following you.
  • There is a lot of success to be found in the more subtle nuances of social media- Facebook in particular. For example, are you trying to attract new clients, or are you wanting to build and interact with your community?
  • Putting thought to who you want to reach out to, may change the type of post that you're going to put together.
  • Kate explains how you're going to set up your Facebook Page: 1) Go back and look at how you've set up your business page (this must be separate from your personal page). 2) You may want to adjust your custom URL. 3) Fill in your 'about' page. All that info really is important. 4) Make your page really visually appealing- the cover photo is a huge opportunity for businesses.
  • A Call To Action can even be a contact button.
  • Take the time to fix things that look unprofessional- otherwise, you will appear
  • The posts that you're creating are really important! You need to share your work in ways that are meaningful to the people that you're talking to. They need to be fun and engaging.
  • Ways that you can add that extra layer of fun, or usefulness of the images that you're posting.
  • You will serve yourself best by being as mutually promotional with other firms, as you can be.
  • A little Facebook secret- when you're looking at your news feed, you see both what is recent and what is popular. Likes, shares, and comments are really important! Think quality over quantity.
  • Facebook really gives you great and direct feedback. Go and look at your analytics and adjust your course, if necessary.
  • Pay attention to what people are saying in their comments. Respond, or even edit things, if necessary.
  • You are ultimately in control of the tone that you're willing to accept on your page.
  • Schedule out your posts in batches, to remain consistent and save yourself time.
  • Consistency really is key with your posting.
  Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/oharainteriors/   Website: http://oharainteriors.com]]> 3741 no 214:Rachel Moriarty: How FaceBook Live Can Be A Game Changer For Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/214rachel-moriarty-how-facebook-live-can-be-a-game-changer-for-your-interior-design-business Welcome to a solo show with a big purpose! I’m dedicating this episode as a bona fide, unsolicited shout-out to Rachel Moriarty of Design + Style. I mention her often on the show because she is always impressive, but she just now hit the one-year anniversary of going Facebook Live to her consumer community EVERY DAY FOR ONE YEAR. To show my significant high five to Rachel for her accomplishment, let’s talk about some of the inspiration she has spread around in the design community. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why Facebook Live? Use it to make connections, grow your business, and help people How Rachel’s interior design tips and advice have helped her fellow designers Since her “challenge” began, she and Dixie Willard have started the Design + Style podcast, using audio AND video to stay on the cutting edge of delivering content How Rachel’s success is impacting me to take advantage of Facebook Live and why I’ve been so hesitant to do it because of the work, commitment, and consistency required to DO IT RIGHT Why Rachel and Dixie are soon launching another podcast Other Facebook groups that are valuable to designers: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School, with Veronica Solomon Interior Design Business Strategies, with Claire Jefford The myth (and the fear) is that you shouldn’t share “your secrets” with your competitors, but here are the facts: Your brand is WHO YOU ARE Don’t be afraid to share your systems No one will connect with your consumers like you do In honour of Rachel’s accomplishment and what she’s created, it’s the perfect time to launch my Facebook Coaching podcasts, so stay tuned for more inspiration in design! Resources: Rachel's podcast: Design+Style   Rachel's website: Rachel M Interiors   Her episode on our Show #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to solopreneurs – Act As If the World is Watching   Rachel's Email: rachelminteriors@gmail.com   Her Face Book Page for Designers: Design And Style Podcast   Claire Jefford’s group: Interior Design Business Strategies   And Veronica Solomon’s group: What They Don’t Teach You In Design School Mon, 07 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to a solo show with a big purpose! I’m dedicating this episode as a bona fide, unsolicited shout-out to Rachel Moriarty of Design + Style. I mention her often on the show because she is always impressive, but she just now hit the one-year... Welcome to a solo show with a big purpose! I’m dedicating this episode as a bona fide, unsolicited shout-out to Rachel Moriarty of Design + Style. I mention her often on the show because she is always impressive, but she just now hit the one-year anniversary of going Facebook Live to her consumer community EVERY DAY FOR ONE YEAR. To show my significant high five to Rachel for her accomplishment, let’s talk about some of the inspiration she has spread around in the design community. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why Facebook Live? Use it to make connections, grow your business, and help people How Rachel’s interior design tips and advice have helped her fellow designers Since her “challenge” began, she and Dixie Willard have started the Design + Style podcast, using audio AND video to stay on the cutting edge of delivering content How Rachel’s success is impacting me to take advantage of Facebook Live and why I’ve been so hesitant to do it because of the work, commitment, and consistency required to DO IT RIGHT Why Rachel and Dixie are soon launching another podcast Other Facebook groups that are valuable to designers: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School, with Veronica Solomon Interior Design Business Strategies, with Claire Jefford The myth (and the fear) is that you shouldn’t share “your secrets” with your competitors, but here are the facts: Your brand is WHO YOU ARE Don’t be afraid to share your systems No one will connect with your consumers like you do In honour of Rachel’s accomplishment and what she’s created, it’s the perfect time to launch my Facebook Coaching podcasts, so stay tuned for more inspiration in design! Resources: Rachel's podcast: Design+Style   Rachel's website: Rachel M Interiors   Her episode on our Show #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to solopreneurs – Act As If the World is Watching   Rachel's Email: rachelminteriors@gmail.com   Her Face Book Page for Designers: Design And Style Podcast   Claire Jefford’s group: Interior Design Business Strategies   And Veronica Solomon’s group: What They Don’t Teach You In Design School Welcome to a solo show with a big purpose! I’m dedicating this episode as a bona fide, unsolicited shout-out to Rachel Moriarty of Design + Style. I mention her often on the show because she is always impressive, but she just now hit the one-year anniversary of going Facebook Live to her consumer community EVERY DAY FOR ONE YEAR. To show my significant high five to Rachel for her accomplishment, let’s talk about some of the inspiration she has spread around in the design community.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • Why Facebook Live?
    • Use it to make connections, grow your business, and help people
    • How Rachel’s interior design tips and advice have helped her fellow designers
  • Since her “challenge” began, she and Dixie Willard have started the Design + Style podcast, using audio AND video to stay on the cutting edge of delivering content
  • How Rachel’s success is impacting me to take advantage of Facebook Live and why I’ve been so hesitant to do it because of the work, commitment, and consistency required to DO IT RIGHT
  • Why Rachel and Dixie are soon launching another podcast
  • Other Facebook groups that are valuable to designers:
    • What They Don’t Teach You in Design School, with Veronica Solomon
    • Interior Design Business Strategies, with Claire Jefford
  • The myth (and the fear) is that you shouldn’t share “your secrets” with your competitors, but here are the facts:
    • Your brand is WHO YOU ARE
    • Don’t be afraid to share your systems
    • No one will connect with your consumers like you do
  • In honour of Rachel’s accomplishment and what she’s created, it’s the perfect time to launch my Facebook Coaching podcasts, so stay tuned for more inspiration in design!

Resources:

Rachel's podcast: Design+Style   Rachel's website: Rachel M Interiors   Her episode on our Show #55: Rachel Moriarty – Message to solopreneurs – Act As If the World is Watching   Rachel's Email: rachelminteriors@gmail.com   Her Face Book Page for Designers: Design And Style Podcast   Claire Jefford’s group: Interior Design Business Strategies   And Veronica Solomon’s group: What They Don’t Teach You In Design School]]> 948 no 213: Power Talk Friday: Stephanie Chung: Change Your Mindset to Succeed at High Ticket Sales http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/213-power-talk-friday-stephanie-chung-change-your-mindset-to-succeed-at-high-ticket-sales Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company. Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales. Show highlights: What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle. Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation. It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you. Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service. Run your business with excellence. If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time. Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need. Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need. Use the power of silence. Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence. Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message. Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity. Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem. After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you. Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple) Links: Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there. To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com Fri, 04 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business... Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company. Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales. Show highlights: What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle. Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation. It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you. Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service. Run your business with excellence. If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time. Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need. Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need. Use the power of silence. Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence. Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message. Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity. Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem. After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you. Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple) Links: Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there. To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com Welcome to another episode of Power talk Friday! Today LuAnn has Stephanie Chung with her on the show. Stephanie has a company called Stephanie Chung and Associates, where she offers Sales Training, Executive Coaching and also Small Business Mentorship, to companies nationwide. Stephanie also has a course, called High Ticket Selling Made Simple which has been designed to help business owners sell more and make more. Listen in to find out more about Stephanie and her company.

Stephanie used to work as a Sales Executive in the Aviation and Private Jet Industry, where she mastered the art of high ticket selling. She has mentored and coached numerous people, including some of the highest paid, most elite Sales Professionals in the country. She serves Business leaders, Entrepreneurs, and Sales Professionals, using her proven Executive Coaching and Sales Training. Stephanie is a contributor on ABC, CBS, and NBC and she's authored Profit Like A Girl- A Woman's Guide To Kicking Butt In Sales And Leadership and also Embrace The Suck- How To Grow And Succeed In Business. LuAnn is really beyond tickled with all of this, so listen in now, as she and Stephanie discuss the mindset moves that are necessary to really scale your sales.

Show highlights:

  • What it all really comes down to is your own version of your own self-worth. Your financial beliefs play a role in the whole equation and sometimes people tend to struggle with that when selling their intellectual property. Stephanie digs into all the factors that contribute to that struggle.
  • Financial self-worth and your mindset- why you should be very careful to never let your own financial beliefs creep into any sales conversation.
  • It's never about you- it's always about the buyer in front of you.
  • Stephanie explains how you can break out of a limited mindset. Remember that it's not your concern how much your customer can afford. You need to ensure that your presentation of your product (your digital footprint), or service actually aligns with your product or service.
  • Run your business with excellence.
  • If someone agrees to meet with you, it means that they've already done some research about you and they have already decided that you are going to be worth their time.
  • Always approach a conversation with a buyer by looking at what it is that they want or need.
  • Ask the buyer questions that go a little deeper, because sometimes the buyer can't really articulate what it is that they need.
  • Use the power of silence.
  • Really knowing your stuff and getting results will help build your confidence.
  • Stephanie shares a technique that she uses with her VIP clients, called Pre-emptive Strike. Know the objections that are going to come your way and bring them up in advance, so that you can control the message.
  • Remember to never bring your price down, if the buyer can't afford it. Rather take something away. This way you keep your price integrity.
  • Only ask the buyer questions that you don't know the answers to. This will help you better understand how to solve their problem.
  • After setting your agenda with a client, mention that you're not necessarily the Designer for everyone.... Great for getting the right
  • If you really want to become a better salesperson, there is ample information out there, for you.
  • Stephanie has done courses before, specifically for Interior Designers. (For example, High Ticket Selling Made Simple)

Links:

Stephanie's website: www.stephaniechung.com You can find loads of free resources there.

To get a free download of Stephanie's book, go to: www.profitlikeagirl.com

]]> 3638 no 212: How Offering Vegan & Cruelty Free Design Can Be Profitable http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/212-how-offering-vegan-cruelty-free-design-can-be-profitable Today's show is a special one. It's a sponsored show- sponsored by Cruelty Free Designs, which is the brain child and love project of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Designs in Miami, Florida. Deborah has been on the show before, on episodes #82 and #117 and now she's sponsoring three shows, to tell you- her colleagues, all about Cruelty Free Design. Listen in to find out more. These three shows will cover firstly what it really means to be Cruelty Free Design, then the resources which are available for Cruelty Free Design and then there will also be a special episode with a Designer who has taken Deborah's course. LuAnn really hopes that you will enjoy this little series! Listen in now, to the first episode, with Deborah Rosenberg, where we're going to take a little time to give the back story of why this is so personal to Deborah- why she has transitioned to making her whole business cruelty free and why this really is such an important thing for you to think about. Show highlights: Deborah has developed a Certification Course in Cruelty Free Design and she explains how this came to be an undertaking for herself and her Firm to develop and also why it's so important to her. The really cruel and inhumane ways that animals are treated, within the corporate industry, being viewed as commodities, rather than sentient creatures. It's really hard to believe what human beings are actually capable of doing to animals! There really is no such thing as responsible wool, or responsible fur. Does it really cost too much to be compassionate? This cruelty mostly happens in countries where there are no regulations. The really awful conditions for humans in tanneries. 56% of Americans stop buying from sources that they view as unethical. The importance of getting educated about all this, as a Designer. Going vegan and the environment- these things are all connected. Sixteen million people in the US are now vegan- many of these people have become aware of the cruelty in these industries through watching videos. The different ways that you could approach this, as a Designer. Animal fur, or leather can cause problems for children with autism, or for people with allergies. Deborah's Certification Course In Cruelty Free Design has now become accredited. websites: http://www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net http://www.dimaredesign.com   Wed, 02 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's show is a special one. It's a sponsored show- sponsored by Cruelty Free Designs, which is the brain child and love project of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Designs in Miami, Florida. Deborah has been on the show before, on episodes #82 and #117... Today's show is a special one. It's a sponsored show- sponsored by Cruelty Free Designs, which is the brain child and love project of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Designs in Miami, Florida. Deborah has been on the show before, on episodes #82 and #117 and now she's sponsoring three shows, to tell you- her colleagues, all about Cruelty Free Design. Listen in to find out more. These three shows will cover firstly what it really means to be Cruelty Free Design, then the resources which are available for Cruelty Free Design and then there will also be a special episode with a Designer who has taken Deborah's course. LuAnn really hopes that you will enjoy this little series! Listen in now, to the first episode, with Deborah Rosenberg, where we're going to take a little time to give the back story of why this is so personal to Deborah- why she has transitioned to making her whole business cruelty free and why this really is such an important thing for you to think about. Show highlights: Deborah has developed a Certification Course in Cruelty Free Design and she explains how this came to be an undertaking for herself and her Firm to develop and also why it's so important to her. The really cruel and inhumane ways that animals are treated, within the corporate industry, being viewed as commodities, rather than sentient creatures. It's really hard to believe what human beings are actually capable of doing to animals! There really is no such thing as responsible wool, or responsible fur. Does it really cost too much to be compassionate? This cruelty mostly happens in countries where there are no regulations. The really awful conditions for humans in tanneries. 56% of Americans stop buying from sources that they view as unethical. The importance of getting educated about all this, as a Designer. Going vegan and the environment- these things are all connected. Sixteen million people in the US are now vegan- many of these people have become aware of the cruelty in these industries through watching videos. The different ways that you could approach this, as a Designer. Animal fur, or leather can cause problems for children with autism, or for people with allergies. Deborah's Certification Course In Cruelty Free Design has now become accredited. websites: http://www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net http://www.dimaredesign.com   Today's show is a special one. It's a sponsored show- sponsored by Cruelty Free Designs, which is the brain child and love project of Deborah Rosenberg, of DiMare Designs in Miami, Florida. Deborah has been on the show before, on episodes #82 and #117 and now she's sponsoring three shows, to tell you- her colleagues, all about Cruelty Free Design. Listen in to find out more.

These three shows will cover firstly what it really means to be Cruelty Free Design, then the resources which are available for Cruelty Free Design and then there will also be a special episode with a Designer who has taken Deborah's course. LuAnn really hopes that you will enjoy this little series! Listen in now, to the first episode, with Deborah Rosenberg, where we're going to take a little time to give the back story of why this is so personal to Deborah- why she has transitioned to making her whole business cruelty free and why this really is such an important thing for you to think about.

  • Show highlights:
  • Deborah has developed a Certification Course in Cruelty Free Design and she explains how this came to be an undertaking for herself and her Firm to develop and also why it's so important to her.
  • The really cruel and inhumane ways that animals are treated, within the corporate industry, being viewed as commodities, rather than sentient creatures. It's really hard to believe what human beings are actually capable of doing to animals!
  • There really is no such thing as responsible wool, or responsible fur.
  • Does it really cost too much to be compassionate?
  • This cruelty mostly happens in countries where there are no regulations.
  • The really awful conditions for humans in tanneries.
  • 56% of Americans stop buying from sources that they view as unethical.
  • The importance of getting educated about all this, as a Designer.
  • Going vegan and the environment- these things are all connected.
  • Sixteen million people in the US are now vegan- many of these people have become aware of the cruelty in these industries through watching videos.
  • The different ways that you could approach this, as a Designer.
  • Animal fur, or leather can cause problems for children with autism, or for people with allergies.
  • Deborah's Certification Course In Cruelty Free Design has now become accredited.
websites: http://www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net http://www.dimaredesign.com

 

]]> 1624 no 211: Carly Waters - Steps to Success in Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/211-carly-waters-steps-to-success-in-your-interior-design-business Today's guest on the show is Carly Waters, the Principal of Carly Waters Style. Carly has really loved design ever since she was a little girl. As the daughter of an attorney, however, she followed in her Dad's footsteps and became an attorney too. Listen in to find out how she ultimately managed to change that and follow her heart and her dreams. Carly graduated from UC Hastings in 2010 and started out in what would be a career in Family Law, at an esteemed Law Firm in San Francisco. Her heart really wasn't in it though, so when she went on maternity leave while pregnant with her son, she rediscovered her love for interiors. She designed their apartment in San Francisco and got it featured on Apartment Therapy. This was when she started taking on some Design clients, on the side. After going back to practicing Family Law, however, she realized pretty quickly that it was time for her to leave the law behind. So, when they moved to LA for a job opportunity for her husband, Carly decided that this was the right time for her to strike out on her own, so she started Carly Waters Style in 2014. Here's the thing- in these three short years, Carly has been featured in My Domain, People, Rue, Simply Spaced, Apartment Therapy and Martha Stewart. Listen in now, to find out how Carly managed to achieve all of this, in such a short period of time. Show highlights: Carly explains how she managed to achieve all that she has, only three years after opening her firm. She really went about it in an intentional way and hired a Coach, Annie Little, who specifically helps attorneys to leave the law. She also spent a full six months making preparations and getting her ducks in a row. Carly really made use of her friends and connections to get ahead in her business. Carly started out initially with organizing clients. After about six months, she decided to take things further and started working with a Realtor and found a house to renovate. This was the house that she used for her portfolio and it was also shot for her My Domain feature. Carly realized that she can't do everything, so she hires people who are experts and she oversees them. She helped a friend with her office, in exchange for putting all her drawings onto CAD. What really stood out for Carly, from her first big project was that you should not try to 'band aid' the problems in the house, because it will eventually end up costing you a whole lot more. It's really important to have your plans and drawings ready, before bringing the contractors in. You will always have problems to solve, however it really does help to be prepared. Carly has really learned to see her worth and understand her value, over time. Carly has really made full use mentors and her network of friends and connections, to help her to learn out about the aspects of the business that she needed to understand. How Carly managed to be published in so many publications in such a short period of time. She used her contacts and knew that she really had to have professional photographs, amongst other things. Carly explains about her hourly rate and about her minimum fee of $5000, both of which she's stated on her website. You really need to surround yourself with people that really support you and elevate you. Links: Carly's website: www.carlywatersstyle.com Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest on the show is Carly Waters, the Principal of Carly Waters Style. Carly has really loved design ever since she was a little girl. As the daughter of an attorney, however, she followed in her Dad's footsteps and became an attorney too.... Today's guest on the show is Carly Waters, the Principal of Carly Waters Style. Carly has really loved design ever since she was a little girl. As the daughter of an attorney, however, she followed in her Dad's footsteps and became an attorney too. Listen in to find out how she ultimately managed to change that and follow her heart and her dreams. Carly graduated from UC Hastings in 2010 and started out in what would be a career in Family Law, at an esteemed Law Firm in San Francisco. Her heart really wasn't in it though, so when she went on maternity leave while pregnant with her son, she rediscovered her love for interiors. She designed their apartment in San Francisco and got it featured on Apartment Therapy. This was when she started taking on some Design clients, on the side. After going back to practicing Family Law, however, she realized pretty quickly that it was time for her to leave the law behind. So, when they moved to LA for a job opportunity for her husband, Carly decided that this was the right time for her to strike out on her own, so she started Carly Waters Style in 2014. Here's the thing- in these three short years, Carly has been featured in My Domain, People, Rue, Simply Spaced, Apartment Therapy and Martha Stewart. Listen in now, to find out how Carly managed to achieve all of this, in such a short period of time. Show highlights: Carly explains how she managed to achieve all that she has, only three years after opening her firm. She really went about it in an intentional way and hired a Coach, Annie Little, who specifically helps attorneys to leave the law. She also spent a full six months making preparations and getting her ducks in a row. Carly really made use of her friends and connections to get ahead in her business. Carly started out initially with organizing clients. After about six months, she decided to take things further and started working with a Realtor and found a house to renovate. This was the house that she used for her portfolio and it was also shot for her My Domain feature. Carly realized that she can't do everything, so she hires people who are experts and she oversees them. She helped a friend with her office, in exchange for putting all her drawings onto CAD. What really stood out for Carly, from her first big project was that you should not try to 'band aid' the problems in the house, because it will eventually end up costing you a whole lot more. It's really important to have your plans and drawings ready, before bringing the contractors in. You will always have problems to solve, however it really does help to be prepared. Carly has really learned to see her worth and understand her value, over time. Carly has really made full use mentors and her network of friends and connections, to help her to learn out about the aspects of the business that she needed to understand. How Carly managed to be published in so many publications in such a short period of time. She used her contacts and knew that she really had to have professional photographs, amongst other things. Carly explains about her hourly rate and about her minimum fee of $5000, both of which she's stated on her website. You really need to surround yourself with people that really support you and elevate you. Links: Carly's website: www.carlywatersstyle.com Today's guest on the show is Carly Waters, the Principal of Carly Waters Style. Carly has really loved design ever since she was a little girl. As the daughter of an attorney, however, she followed in her Dad's footsteps and became an attorney too. Listen in to find out how she ultimately managed to change that and follow her heart and her dreams.

Carly graduated from UC Hastings in 2010 and started out in what would be a career in Family Law, at an esteemed Law Firm in San Francisco. Her heart really wasn't in it though, so when she went on maternity leave while pregnant with her son, she rediscovered her love for interiors. She designed their apartment in San Francisco and got it featured on Apartment Therapy. This was when she started taking on some Design clients, on the side. After going back to practicing Family Law, however, she realized pretty quickly that it was time for her to leave the law behind. So, when they moved to LA for a job opportunity for her husband, Carly decided that this was the right time for her to strike out on her own, so she started Carly Waters Style in 2014. Here's the thing- in these three short years, Carly has been featured in My Domain, People, Rue, Simply Spaced, Apartment Therapy and Martha Stewart. Listen in now, to find out how Carly managed to achieve all of this, in such a short period of time.

Show highlights:

  • Carly explains how she managed to achieve all that she has, only three years after opening her firm. She really went about it in an intentional way and hired a Coach, Annie Little, who specifically helps attorneys to leave the law. She also spent a full six months making preparations and getting her ducks in a row.
  • Carly really made use of her friends and connections to get ahead in her business.
  • Carly started out initially with organizing clients.
  • After about six months, she decided to take things further and started working with a Realtor and found a house to renovate. This was the house that she used for her portfolio and it was also shot for her My Domain feature.
  • Carly realized that she can't do everything, so she hires people who are experts and she oversees them. She helped a friend with her office, in exchange for putting all her drawings onto CAD.
  • What really stood out for Carly, from her first big project was that you should not try to 'band aid' the problems in the house, because it will eventually end up costing you a whole lot more.
  • It's really important to have your plans and drawings ready, before bringing the contractors in. You will always have problems to solve, however it really does help to be prepared.
  • Carly has really learned to see her worth and understand her value, over time.
  • Carly has really made full use mentors and her network of friends and connections, to help her to learn out about the aspects of the business that she needed to understand.
  • How Carly managed to be published in so many publications in such a short period of time. She used her contacts and knew that she really had to have professional photographs, amongst other things.
  • Carly explains about her hourly rate and about her minimum fee of $5000, both of which she's stated on her website.
  • You really need to surround yourself with people that really support you and elevate you.

Links:

Carly's website: www.carlywatersstyle.com

]]> 3846 no 210: Power Talk Friday: Website Tips For Design Pro’s with Yian Quach http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/210-power-talk-friday-website-tips-for-design-pros-with-yian-quach The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Yian Quach.  Yian, who is originally from Seattle, Washington, has been designing websites since 2015 and he helps professionals in the Design Industry to cure their web site pain so that they can grow their businesses. There is a particular mention, on his website, that LuAnn found quite interesting- in addition to his role as Website Doctor, Yian really loves educating and his original career was as an English Teacher!  Listen in as Yian explains all about his real genius ways with websites. Yian's clients have been published in a number of top shelf magazines, including Architectural Digest, Lux, Hudson Mod and Editor At Large. The thing about Yian is that he has a rare combination of skills in the areas of Website  Design, Copywriting and Coding and he's also familiar with all the nuances of the Interior Design Industry. He regularly attends Industry Trade Shows, so you may even know him. In the past year, he's been at High Point Spring Market, Brooklyn Designs, ICFF (where he and LuAnn did a Facebook Live for Curated Kravet), The D and D Building Spring Market and later this month, he'll be at Las Vegas Furniture Market. Listen in now, to learn about the really actionable ways that Yian works to help people to cure their website pains. Show highlights: The kinds of website pains that Yian cures. Yian explains the details of his Criteria List of twelve items, which he uses to evaluate websites. Does the website feel clean and easy to use? Does the website feel complete and up to date? Does the website feel thoughtfully written and succinct? Does the website feel fresh? Does the website feel guided? Does the website feel beautiful? Does the website feel personal enough? Does the website feel cohesive? Does the website/designer feel endorsed? Does the website/designer feel credible and authoritative? Does the website feel actionable? Does the website feel polished? Yian tests his very simple Grading System (A+ to E) that he uses to evaluate websites, on his own website. Consider hiring a wedding photographer to get a really great video for your website. Yian helps LuAnn to evaluate her website, using his Criteria List. Yian points out some missed opportunities on LuAnn's website. The impact of having website photos that fill the whole screen. The cohesiveness of the voice on websites is something that is often overlooked. Yian points out where LuAnn's website could be more actionable. Yian assists LuAnn with ways to tweak the logo and header on her website. Yian encourages you to take advantage of his Website Review. Yian's Free Giveaway- Yian will be giving away five free Website Reviews to the first five professionals in the Design Industry, to contact him at housedigitaldesign.com/a-well-designed-business and articulate their particular web site pain, within one week of this podcast being aired. Yian will be covering the Las Vegas Furniture Market, later this month, on the Tastefully Inspired Facebook Page, with lots of live videos. Like the page and ensure that you get the notifications when it goes live. website: https://housedigitaldesign.com Fri, 28 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Yian Quach.  Yian, who is originally from Seattle, Washington, has been designing websites since 2015 and he helps professionals in the Design Industry to cure their web site pain so that they can grow... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Yian Quach.  Yian, who is originally from Seattle, Washington, has been designing websites since 2015 and he helps professionals in the Design Industry to cure their web site pain so that they can grow their businesses. There is a particular mention, on his website, that LuAnn found quite interesting- in addition to his role as Website Doctor, Yian really loves educating and his original career was as an English Teacher!  Listen in as Yian explains all about his real genius ways with websites. Yian's clients have been published in a number of top shelf magazines, including Architectural Digest, Lux, Hudson Mod and Editor At Large. The thing about Yian is that he has a rare combination of skills in the areas of Website  Design, Copywriting and Coding and he's also familiar with all the nuances of the Interior Design Industry. He regularly attends Industry Trade Shows, so you may even know him. In the past year, he's been at High Point Spring Market, Brooklyn Designs, ICFF (where he and LuAnn did a Facebook Live for Curated Kravet), The D and D Building Spring Market and later this month, he'll be at Las Vegas Furniture Market. Listen in now, to learn about the really actionable ways that Yian works to help people to cure their website pains. Show highlights: The kinds of website pains that Yian cures. Yian explains the details of his Criteria List of twelve items, which he uses to evaluate websites. Does the website feel clean and easy to use? Does the website feel complete and up to date? Does the website feel thoughtfully written and succinct? Does the website feel fresh? Does the website feel guided? Does the website feel beautiful? Does the website feel personal enough? Does the website feel cohesive? Does the website/designer feel endorsed? Does the website/designer feel credible and authoritative? Does the website feel actionable? Does the website feel polished? Yian tests his very simple Grading System (A+ to E) that he uses to evaluate websites, on his own website. Consider hiring a wedding photographer to get a really great video for your website. Yian helps LuAnn to evaluate her website, using his Criteria List. Yian points out some missed opportunities on LuAnn's website. The impact of having website photos that fill the whole screen. The cohesiveness of the voice on websites is something that is often overlooked. Yian points out where LuAnn's website could be more actionable. Yian assists LuAnn with ways to tweak the logo and header on her website. Yian encourages you to take advantage of his Website Review. Yian's Free Giveaway- Yian will be giving away five free Website Reviews to the first five professionals in the Design Industry, to contact him at housedigitaldesign.com/a-well-designed-business and articulate their particular web site pain, within one week of this podcast being aired. Yian will be covering the Las Vegas Furniture Market, later this month, on the Tastefully Inspired Facebook Page, with lots of live videos. Like the page and ensure that you get the notifications when it goes live. website: https://housedigitaldesign.com The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Yian Quach.  Yian, who is originally from Seattle, Washington, has been designing websites since 2015 and he helps professionals in the Design Industry to cure their web site pain so that they can grow their businesses. There is a particular mention, on his website, that LuAnn found quite interesting- in addition to his role as Website Doctor, Yian really loves educating and his original career was as an English Teacher!  Listen in as Yian explains all about his real genius ways with websites.

Yian's clients have been published in a number of top shelf magazines, including Architectural Digest, Lux, Hudson Mod and Editor At Large. The thing about Yian is that he has a rare combination of skills in the areas of Website  Design, Copywriting and Coding and he's also familiar with all the nuances of the Interior Design Industry. He regularly attends Industry Trade Shows, so you may even know him. In the past year, he's been at High Point Spring Market, Brooklyn Designs, ICFF (where he and LuAnn did a Facebook Live for Curated Kravet), The D and D Building Spring Market and later this month, he'll be at Las Vegas Furniture Market. Listen in now, to learn about the really actionable ways that Yian works to help people to cure their website pains.

Show highlights:

  • The kinds of website pains that Yian cures.
  • Yian explains the details of his Criteria List of twelve items, which he uses to evaluate websites.
  1. Does the website feel clean and easy to use?
  2. Does the website feel complete and up to date?
  3. Does the website feel thoughtfully written and succinct?
  4. Does the website feel fresh?
  5. Does the website feel guided?
  6. Does the website feel beautiful?
  7. Does the website feel personal enough?
  8. Does the website feel cohesive?
  9. Does the website/designer feel endorsed?
  10. Does the website/designer feel credible and authoritative?
  11. Does the website feel actionable?
  12. Does the website feel polished?
  • Yian tests his very simple Grading System (A+ to E) that he uses to evaluate websites, on his own website.
  • Consider hiring a wedding photographer to get a really great video for your website.
  • Yian helps LuAnn to evaluate her website, using his Criteria List.
  • Yian points out some missed opportunities on LuAnn's website.
  • The impact of having website photos that fill the whole screen.
  • The cohesiveness of the voice on websites is something that is often overlooked.
  • Yian points out where LuAnn's website could be more actionable.
  • Yian assists LuAnn with ways to tweak the logo and header on her website.
  • Yian encourages you to take advantage of his Website Review.
  • Yian's Free Giveaway- Yian will be giving away five free Website Reviews to the first five professionals in the Design Industry, to contact him at housedigitaldesign.com/a-well-designed-business and articulate their particular web site pain, within one week of this podcast being aired.

Yian will be covering the Las Vegas Furniture Market, later this month, on the Tastefully Inspired Facebook Page, with lots of live videos. Like the page and ensure that you get the notifications when it goes live.

website: https://housedigitaldesign.com]]> 4176 no 209: Savour Partnership- Why You Need to Build an Email List http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/209-savour-partnership-why-you-need-to-build-an-email-list Today's guests, Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson,  are the two industry pros and the brains behind Savour Partnership. They create magazine quality, custom branded e-publications for your website, or blog. This really means that they create opt-ins and lead magnets, for you to attract and grow an email list. LuAnn urges you to hang on and really listen, specially if you find your eyes are glazing over at the mention of growing your email list, because these two really are experts at this and today, they're going to explain precisely why it's so important, for the health of your business, to grow your email list. Listen in to find out more. Sam Henderson is the owner and Creative Director of Savour Imagery, which is a Food and Lifestyle Creative Studio, located in Dallas, Texas. Sam and his team create photography, video, and graphics for numerous national brands and media outlets. He uses his knowledge of food, lifestyle, and travel together with his experience as a Designer, to create content for HDTV and DIY Network. Sam also writes a weekly article on Design trends. Leslie is the CEO of Kaleidoscope Partnership, which has more than thirty-seven years of experience in the Luxury Home Furnishings and Interior Design Industry. This year, her company celebrates it's the fifteenth year. Leslie pioneered the use of Social Media Marketing and Influencer Marketing nationwide and she has helped to build the brands of major manufacturers, retailers, software providers, individual Interior Designers and Trade  Shows through her website, her Blog Management work, Social Media and Content Marketing. These are brands like Havly Court, Wilson Kelsey Design, Four Point Design Build, The New Traditionalist, Meredith Corporation, World Market Centre, Las Vegas, ICFF and more than thirty-five others! Leslie speaks frequently at Industry Events and she is often quoted as an Expert Resource in National Publications. She wrote the Retail Ideas Column for Furniture Today Magazine for nine years and her micro-blog, @TKP Leslie, has more than thirty-six thousand followers and was named, by Decorex, as one of the top one hundred most influential Interior Design blogs in the world! Together, Leslie and Sam are the co-founders of the recently started Savour Partnership. Listen in to find out how they can really help you to position yourself for success, elevate your brand and grow your business. Show highlights: Leslie gives you the basics of what she and Sam do with their Savour Partnership (in layman's terms) and why you, as a Designer should care about it. Why it would be worth it to you, as a Designer, to sit down and write an ebook, to offer to your prospective clients. Sam explains their system, which offers templates, yet remains true to each Designer having a unique look. Leslie explains about how to drive traffic to your blog, or website, through their Savour Partnership Group on Facebook, in order to grow your email list and create a means of passive income for yourself. Rich Pins On Pinterest- a number one way to drive traffic towards your blog or website. (Click on the Note on Leslie's Facebook Page, The Kaleidoscope Partnership, to get the details of how to set up a Rich Pin.) Sam shares some other really great tips for how to drive consumer traffic to your website, or your blog, using Pinterest. Affiliate Marketing- what it is and how it can work for you. How Affiliate Marketing could generate a passive income for you, as an Interior Designer. How you can make an Affiliate Commission, which is really another kind of passive income, through selling products via your website, to the consumer. Why you really need to have something to trade with the consumer, for their email address. Leslie will hold your hand throughout the entire process of assisting you with the development your e-publication and she really has the utmost respect for the artistic quality of whatever you produce. Their work is so professional and of such a high quality, that it really seems so easy! Why you really do need to be putting out a call to action, to the consumer. Sam and Leslie can even help you with Copywriting, if necessary, to help you elevate your business. Leslie will be speaking at the Bold Summit, in Chicago in September. Sam will be there also. Although Leslie does not have a personal blog, she has written between seventy-five and eighty percent of all the content for the really successful Havly Court Blog, so she invites you to join her new Facebook Group so that you can learn how to drive consumer traffic to your blog. You can sell a blog as a separate business asset. There are Design Bloggers right now, who have only been focused on blogging for five years and they are making, on their blog, over $200 000 per year! This is a very real income opportunity for you! This is how you really can create more freedom for yourself, over time. You can put a three page PDF together for yourself on one Sunday. Creating affiliate links on your publication. Links for Savour Partnership: Facebook: www.facebook.com/savourpartnership Instagram: www.instagram.com Savour Partnership Email: savourpartnership@gmail.com Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guests, Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson,  are the two industry pros and the brains behind Savour Partnership. They create magazine quality, custom branded e-publications for your website, or blog. This really means that they create... Today's guests, Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson,  are the two industry pros and the brains behind Savour Partnership. They create magazine quality, custom branded e-publications for your website, or blog. This really means that they create opt-ins and lead magnets, for you to attract and grow an email list. LuAnn urges you to hang on and really listen, specially if you find your eyes are glazing over at the mention of growing your email list, because these two really are experts at this and today, they're going to explain precisely why it's so important, for the health of your business, to grow your email list. Listen in to find out more. Sam Henderson is the owner and Creative Director of Savour Imagery, which is a Food and Lifestyle Creative Studio, located in Dallas, Texas. Sam and his team create photography, video, and graphics for numerous national brands and media outlets. He uses his knowledge of food, lifestyle, and travel together with his experience as a Designer, to create content for HDTV and DIY Network. Sam also writes a weekly article on Design trends. Leslie is the CEO of Kaleidoscope Partnership, which has more than thirty-seven years of experience in the Luxury Home Furnishings and Interior Design Industry. This year, her company celebrates it's the fifteenth year. Leslie pioneered the use of Social Media Marketing and Influencer Marketing nationwide and she has helped to build the brands of major manufacturers, retailers, software providers, individual Interior Designers and Trade  Shows through her website, her Blog Management work, Social Media and Content Marketing. These are brands like Havly Court, Wilson Kelsey Design, Four Point Design Build, The New Traditionalist, Meredith Corporation, World Market Centre, Las Vegas, ICFF and more than thirty-five others! Leslie speaks frequently at Industry Events and she is often quoted as an Expert Resource in National Publications. She wrote the Retail Ideas Column for Furniture Today Magazine for nine years and her micro-blog, @TKP Leslie, has more than thirty-six thousand followers and was named, by Decorex, as one of the top one hundred most influential Interior Design blogs in the world! Together, Leslie and Sam are the co-founders of the recently started Savour Partnership. Listen in to find out how they can really help you to position yourself for success, elevate your brand and grow your business. Show highlights: Leslie gives you the basics of what she and Sam do with their Savour Partnership (in layman's terms) and why you, as a Designer should care about it. Why it would be worth it to you, as a Designer, to sit down and write an ebook, to offer to your prospective clients. Sam explains their system, which offers templates, yet remains true to each Designer having a unique look. Leslie explains about how to drive traffic to your blog, or website, through their Savour Partnership Group on Facebook, in order to grow your email list and create a means of passive income for yourself. Rich Pins On Pinterest- a number one way to drive traffic towards your blog or website. (Click on the Note on Leslie's Facebook Page, The Kaleidoscope Partnership, to get the details of how to set up a Rich Pin.) Sam shares some other really great tips for how to drive consumer traffic to your website, or your blog, using Pinterest. Affiliate Marketing- what it is and how it can work for you. How Affiliate Marketing could generate a passive income for you, as an Interior Designer. How you can make an Affiliate Commission, which is really another kind of passive income, through selling products via your website, to the consumer. Why you really need to have something to trade with the consumer, for their email address. Leslie will hold your hand throughout the entire process of assisting you with the development your e-publication and she really has the utmost respect for the artistic quality of whatever you produce. Their work is so professional and of such a high quality, that it really seems so easy! Why you really do need to be putting out a call to action, to the consumer. Sam and Leslie can even help you with Copywriting, if necessary, to help you elevate your business. Leslie will be speaking at the Bold Summit, in Chicago in September. Sam will be there also. Although Leslie does not have a personal blog, she has written between seventy-five and eighty percent of all the content for the really successful Havly Court Blog, so she invites you to join her new Facebook Group so that you can learn how to drive consumer traffic to your blog. You can sell a blog as a separate business asset. There are Design Bloggers right now, who have only been focused on blogging for five years and they are making, on their blog, over $200 000 per year! This is a very real income opportunity for you! This is how you really can create more freedom for yourself, over time. You can put a three page PDF together for yourself on one Sunday. Creating affiliate links on your publication. Links for Savour Partnership: Facebook: www.facebook.com/savourpartnership Instagram: www.instagram.com Savour Partnership Email: savourpartnership@gmail.com Today's guests, Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson,  are the two industry pros and the brains behind Savour Partnership. They create magazine quality, custom branded e-publications for your website, or blog. This really means that they create opt-ins and lead magnets, for you to attract and grow an email list. LuAnn urges you to hang on and really listen, specially if you find your eyes are glazing over at the mention of growing your email list, because these two really are experts at this and today, they're going to explain precisely why it's so important, for the health of your business, to grow your email list. Listen in to find out more.

Sam Henderson is the owner and Creative Director of Savour Imagery, which is a Food and Lifestyle Creative Studio, located in Dallas, Texas. Sam and his team create photography, video, and graphics for numerous national brands and media outlets. He uses his knowledge of food, lifestyle, and travel together with his experience as a Designer, to create content for HDTV and DIY Network. Sam also writes a weekly article on Design trends.

Leslie is the CEO of Kaleidoscope Partnership, which has more than thirty-seven years of experience in the Luxury Home Furnishings and Interior Design Industry. This year, her company celebrates it's the fifteenth year. Leslie pioneered the use of Social Media Marketing and Influencer Marketing nationwide and she has helped to build the brands of major manufacturers, retailers, software providers, individual Interior Designers and Trade  Shows through her website, her Blog Management work, Social Media and Content Marketing. These are brands like Havly Court, Wilson Kelsey Design, Four Point Design Build, The New Traditionalist, Meredith Corporation, World Market Centre, Las Vegas, ICFF and more than thirty-five others! Leslie speaks frequently at Industry Events and she is often quoted as an Expert Resource in National Publications. She wrote the Retail Ideas Column for Furniture Today Magazine for nine years and her micro-blog, @TKP Leslie, has more than thirty-six thousand followers and was named, by Decorex, as one of the top one hundred most influential Interior Design blogs in the world! Together, Leslie and Sam are the co-founders of the recently started Savour Partnership. Listen in to find out how they can really help you to position yourself for success, elevate your brand and grow your business.

Show highlights:

  • Leslie gives you the basics of what she and Sam do with their Savour Partnership (in layman's terms) and why you, as a Designer should care about it.
  • Why it would be worth it to you, as a Designer, to sit down and write an ebook, to offer to your prospective clients.
  • Sam explains their system, which offers templates, yet remains true to each Designer having a unique look.
  • Leslie explains about how to drive traffic to your blog, or website, through their Savour Partnership Group on Facebook, in order to grow your email list and create a means of passive income for yourself.
  • Rich Pins On Pinterest- a number one way to drive traffic towards your blog or website. (Click on the Note on Leslie's Facebook Page, The Kaleidoscope Partnership, to get the details of how to set up a Rich Pin.)
  • Sam shares some other really great tips for how to drive consumer traffic to your website, or your blog, using Pinterest.
  • Affiliate Marketing- what it is and how it can work for you.
  • How Affiliate Marketing could generate a passive income for you, as an Interior Designer.
  • How you can make an Affiliate Commission, which is really another kind of passive income, through selling products via your website, to the consumer.
  • Why you really need to have something to trade with the consumer, for their email address.
  • Leslie will hold your hand throughout the entire process of assisting you with the development your e-publication and she really has the utmost respect for the artistic quality of whatever you produce.
  • Their work is so professional and of such a high quality, that it really seems so easy!
  • Why you really do need to be putting out a call to action, to the consumer.
  • Sam and Leslie can even help you with Copywriting, if necessary, to help you elevate your business.
  • Leslie will be speaking at the Bold Summit, in Chicago in September. Sam will be there also.
  • Although Leslie does not have a personal blog, she has written between seventy-five and eighty percent of all the content for the really successful Havly Court Blog, so she invites you to join her new Facebook Group so that you can learn how to drive consumer traffic to your blog.
  • You can sell a blog as a separate business asset.
  • There are Design Bloggers right now, who have only been focused on blogging for five years and they are making, on their blog, over $200 000 per year! This is a very real income opportunity for you!
  • This is how you really can create more freedom for yourself, over time.
  • You can put a three page PDF together for yourself on one Sunday.
  • Creating affiliate links on your publication.

Links for Savour Partnership:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/savourpartnership

Instagram: www.instagram.com Savour Partnership

Email: savourpartnership@gmail.com

]]> 4734 no 208: Susan Yeley - How Where You Live Influences Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/208-susan-yeley-how-where-you-live-influences-your-interior-design-business The guest on today's show is Susan Yeley, of Susan Yeley Interiors, in Bloomington, Indiana. A few weeks ago, Susan contacted LuAnn, because she listens to the show a lot and she thought that the particular challenges that she faces in her Design Firm could make an interesting topic. After learning a little more about it, LuAnn agreed and she really hopes that you will too. Listen in to find out about the challenges that Susan faces in her business, which is really defined by the area she lives in. Susan started out as a struggling graduate student in Religion and Philosophy at Indiana University. She later took an unpaid internship at Thomas Jobb, a furniture and fabric showroom in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago and became hooked on Design.  She then enrolled at the Harrington College of Design and eventually landed a job at a high-end Residential Design Firm in River North. Susan and her husband finally returned to their roots, a few weeks prior to the birth of their first daughter, in 2005. Listen in now to find out more about Susan and the specific challenges that she faces, when it comes to her business location and the fees that she charges. Show highlights: Susan explains what the demographic is like where she does her business and also what the factors are, that contribute to making it a little different to LuAnn's usual conversations. Susan's really intentional, yet flexible approach to her business. Many of Susan's clients have never worked with a Designer before. Trust is a really important factor in business, in Susan's close knit community. The packages that Susan used to offer, to sell to her value and services to her small town community. Why she eventually discontinued the packages. The conversation that Susan had with a friend, that caused her to examine the perceived value of her services. Now she makes no mention of figures on her website. Susan's Gut Check On A Potential Home. The really interesting blend of personalities in Susan's wonderful team of really skilled staff. The rationale behind Susan's website. Susan loves the small town life, even though it really makes it harder for her as a Designer. Most of her money is made from once-off, hourly consultations, so Susan is really forced her to think creatively about how to make money, every day. It's not been a feasible option, so far, for Susan to make any money from product mark ups, so she and her team have to think really creatively about what Interior Design looks like in their particular culture. Some of the ways that Susan is trying to generate an income, in her tricky community. Susan's online initiative, to sell things through her website. It's almost like a Town Gallery. The mid range price point items that have been identified, that Susan and her team are working hard to make 'trade only available', in order to generate some more income, via her website. Making money from property flips. Incorporating Enoch Sears's (#202) idea, to collaborate with local Architects. The three P's that Susan relies on- Planning, Priorities, and Patience. They really work for her! Susan's take on Design Therapy. Susan's website:  www.susanyeleyinteriors.com Mon, 24 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Susan Yeley, of Susan Yeley Interiors, in Bloomington, Indiana. A few weeks ago, Susan contacted LuAnn, because she listens to the show a lot and she thought that the particular challenges that she faces in her Design Firm... The guest on today's show is Susan Yeley, of Susan Yeley Interiors, in Bloomington, Indiana. A few weeks ago, Susan contacted LuAnn, because she listens to the show a lot and she thought that the particular challenges that she faces in her Design Firm could make an interesting topic. After learning a little more about it, LuAnn agreed and she really hopes that you will too. Listen in to find out about the challenges that Susan faces in her business, which is really defined by the area she lives in. Susan started out as a struggling graduate student in Religion and Philosophy at Indiana University. She later took an unpaid internship at Thomas Jobb, a furniture and fabric showroom in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago and became hooked on Design.  She then enrolled at the Harrington College of Design and eventually landed a job at a high-end Residential Design Firm in River North. Susan and her husband finally returned to their roots, a few weeks prior to the birth of their first daughter, in 2005. Listen in now to find out more about Susan and the specific challenges that she faces, when it comes to her business location and the fees that she charges. Show highlights: Susan explains what the demographic is like where she does her business and also what the factors are, that contribute to making it a little different to LuAnn's usual conversations. Susan's really intentional, yet flexible approach to her business. Many of Susan's clients have never worked with a Designer before. Trust is a really important factor in business, in Susan's close knit community. The packages that Susan used to offer, to sell to her value and services to her small town community. Why she eventually discontinued the packages. The conversation that Susan had with a friend, that caused her to examine the perceived value of her services. Now she makes no mention of figures on her website. Susan's Gut Check On A Potential Home. The really interesting blend of personalities in Susan's wonderful team of really skilled staff. The rationale behind Susan's website. Susan loves the small town life, even though it really makes it harder for her as a Designer. Most of her money is made from once-off, hourly consultations, so Susan is really forced her to think creatively about how to make money, every day. It's not been a feasible option, so far, for Susan to make any money from product mark ups, so she and her team have to think really creatively about what Interior Design looks like in their particular culture. Some of the ways that Susan is trying to generate an income, in her tricky community. Susan's online initiative, to sell things through her website. It's almost like a Town Gallery. The mid range price point items that have been identified, that Susan and her team are working hard to make 'trade only available', in order to generate some more income, via her website. Making money from property flips. Incorporating Enoch Sears's (#202) idea, to collaborate with local Architects. The three P's that Susan relies on- Planning, Priorities, and Patience. They really work for her! Susan's take on Design Therapy. Susan's website:  www.susanyeleyinteriors.com The guest on today's show is Susan Yeley, of Susan Yeley Interiors, in Bloomington, Indiana. A few weeks ago, Susan contacted LuAnn, because she listens to the show a lot and she thought that the particular challenges that she faces in her Design Firm could make an interesting topic. After learning a little more about it, LuAnn agreed and she really hopes that you will too. Listen in to find out about the challenges that Susan faces in her business, which is really defined by the area she lives in.

Susan started out as a struggling graduate student in Religion and Philosophy at Indiana University. She later took an unpaid internship at Thomas Jobb, a furniture and fabric showroom in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago and became hooked on Design.  She then enrolled at the Harrington College of Design and eventually landed a job at a high-end Residential Design Firm in River North. Susan and her husband finally returned to their roots, a few weeks prior to the birth of their first daughter, in 2005. Listen in now to find out more about Susan and the specific challenges that she faces, when it comes to her business location and the fees that she charges.

Show highlights:

  • Susan explains what the demographic is like where she does her business and also what the factors are, that contribute to making it a little different to LuAnn's usual conversations.
  • Susan's really intentional, yet flexible approach to her business.
  • Many of Susan's clients have never worked with a Designer before.
  • Trust is a really important factor in business, in Susan's close knit community.
  • The packages that Susan used to offer, to sell to her value and services to her small town community.
  • Why she eventually discontinued the packages.
  • The conversation that Susan had with a friend, that caused her to examine the perceived value of her services. Now she makes no mention of figures on her website.
  • Susan's Gut Check On A Potential Home.
  • The really interesting blend of personalities in Susan's wonderful team of really skilled staff.
  • The rationale behind Susan's website.
  • Susan loves the small town life, even though it really makes it harder for her as a Designer.
  • Most of her money is made from once-off, hourly consultations, so Susan is really forced her to think creatively about how to make money, every day.
  • It's not been a feasible option, so far, for Susan to make any money from product mark ups, so she and her team have to think really creatively about what Interior Design looks like in their particular culture.
  • Some of the ways that Susan is trying to generate an income, in her tricky community.
  • Susan's online initiative, to sell things through her website. It's almost like a Town Gallery.
  • The mid range price point items that have been identified, that Susan and her team are working hard to make 'trade only available', in order to generate some more income, via her website.
  • Making money from property flips.
  • Incorporating Enoch Sears's (#202) idea, to collaborate with local Architects.
  • The three P's that Susan relies on- Planning, Priorities, and Patience. They really work for her!
  • Susan's take on Design Therapy.

Susan's website: 

www.susanyeleyinteriors.com

]]> 4023 no 207: Power Talk Friday: Madalyn Sklar: How to Use Twitter for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/207-power-talk-friday-madalyn-sklar-how-to-use-twitter-for-your-interior-design-business The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is a really special force to be reckoned with! She's is also the very first guest to be talking about Twitter on the show! Madalyn Sklar is a Business Coach, Consultant, and Twitter Marketing Expert. Other than being an expert on Twitter, she's the host of #Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and Podcast. She has the weekly #Social ROI Chat, she blogs and she creates courses and also speaks and teaches courses at Madalyn Sklar.com. Listen to getting some awesome advice about marketing with Twitter from Madalyn. Madalyn, who really has some visionary skills, is known for being the Number One Social Media Influencer in Houston, a city which has a population of two million people. She has been blogging since 2000 and she's been founding online communities since 1996 when the internet was new and she saw it as a really great way to connect people. Listen in now, as LuAnn interviews Madalyn, someone who really has the knack of being an early adopter of all things tech! Show highlights: Why you really should care about Twitter. Engaging is really where the magic is, with Social Media. Get on Twitter and listen to where the conversation is. Madalyn's Twitter Secret Sauce- to help you to start meeting people and enjoying Twitter. Create a Twitter List, either public or private- it's really a great way to organize. Twitter Chats- #an awesome way to make connections with people. Using Twitter Chats to get your business seen and heard. Creating a really effective and clear Twitter profile. You can boost your bio with a bit.ly link. A great tip to check the traffic to your Twitter profile- you may be in for a big surprise! Why a Pen Tweet really is such a great idea to build your hash tag following. Go to Madalyn's Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and podcast, to learn more about Twitter. Link: Madalyn's website: www.madalynsklar.com Go to www.madalynsklar.com/chatlist to get to a page with a variety of charts that you can look through. The best place to meet Madalyn- on Twitter! #madalynsklar Fri, 21 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is a really special force to be reckoned with! She's is also the very first guest to be talking about Twitter on the show! Madalyn Sklar is a Business Coach, Consultant, and Twitter Marketing Expert. Other than... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is a really special force to be reckoned with! She's is also the very first guest to be talking about Twitter on the show! Madalyn Sklar is a Business Coach, Consultant, and Twitter Marketing Expert. Other than being an expert on Twitter, she's the host of #Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and Podcast. She has the weekly #Social ROI Chat, she blogs and she creates courses and also speaks and teaches courses at Madalyn Sklar.com. Listen to getting some awesome advice about marketing with Twitter from Madalyn. Madalyn, who really has some visionary skills, is known for being the Number One Social Media Influencer in Houston, a city which has a population of two million people. She has been blogging since 2000 and she's been founding online communities since 1996 when the internet was new and she saw it as a really great way to connect people. Listen in now, as LuAnn interviews Madalyn, someone who really has the knack of being an early adopter of all things tech! Show highlights: Why you really should care about Twitter. Engaging is really where the magic is, with Social Media. Get on Twitter and listen to where the conversation is. Madalyn's Twitter Secret Sauce- to help you to start meeting people and enjoying Twitter. Create a Twitter List, either public or private- it's really a great way to organize. Twitter Chats- #an awesome way to make connections with people. Using Twitter Chats to get your business seen and heard. Creating a really effective and clear Twitter profile. You can boost your bio with a bit.ly link. A great tip to check the traffic to your Twitter profile- you may be in for a big surprise! Why a Pen Tweet really is such a great idea to build your hash tag following. Go to Madalyn's Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and podcast, to learn more about Twitter. Link: Madalyn's website: www.madalynsklar.com Go to www.madalynsklar.com/chatlist to get to a page with a variety of charts that you can look through. The best place to meet Madalyn- on Twitter! #madalynsklar The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is a really special force to be reckoned with! She's is also the very first guest to be talking about Twitter on the show! Madalyn Sklar is a Business Coach, Consultant, and Twitter Marketing Expert. Other than being an expert on Twitter, she's the host of #Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and Podcast. She has the weekly #Social ROI Chat, she blogs and she creates courses and also speaks and teaches courses at Madalyn Sklar.com. Listen to getting some awesome advice about marketing with Twitter from Madalyn.

Madalyn, who really has some visionary skills, is known for being the Number One Social Media Influencer in Houston, a city which has a population of two million people. She has been blogging since 2000 and she's been founding online communities since 1996 when the internet was new and she saw it as a really great way to connect people. Listen in now, as LuAnn interviews Madalyn, someone who really has the knack of being an early adopter of all things tech!

Show highlights:

  • Why you really should care about Twitter.
  • Engaging is really where the magic is, with Social Media.
  • Get on Twitter and listen to where the conversation is.
  • Madalyn's Twitter Secret Sauce- to help you to start meeting people and enjoying Twitter.
  • Create a Twitter List, either public or private- it's really a great way to organize.
  • Twitter Chats- #an awesome way to make connections with people.
  • Using Twitter Chats to get your business seen and heard.
  • Creating a really effective and clear Twitter profile.
  • You can boost your bio with a bit.ly link.
  • A great tip to check the traffic to your Twitter profile- you may be in for a big surprise!
  • Why a Pen Tweet really is such a great idea to build your hash tag following.
  • Go to Madalyn's Twitter Smarter Twitter Chat and podcast, to learn more about Twitter.

Link:

Madalyn's website: www.madalynsklar.com

Go to www.madalynsklar.com/chatlist to get to a page with a variety of charts that you can look through.

The best place to meet Madalyn- on Twitter! #madalynsklar

]]> 3512 no 206: Design Biz Live - The Most Important Tips For a Successful Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/206-design-biz-live-the-most-important-tips-for-a-successful-interior-design-business Today, LuAnn  is shaking it up a bit and introducing a new monthly feature, called  Design Biz Live. On the third Wednesday of every month, she will be talking with Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio and Corey  Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors and they will be discussing the specific problems and challenges that you are facing in your design firm. Somewhat similar to what LuAnn's been doing for the last eighteen months, however, with Design Biz Live, she will be dealing with the questions that you have by asking them of these two talented designers. So, it's the same, but different... Listen in to find out what it's all about!   If you'd like to know more about who Corey and Judith are, you can listen to episode #170, where LuAnn first met them and there you can hear all about their firms and their backgrounds. What really makes this new feature so actionable and worthy, is that Corey and Judith run two entirely different kinds of firms, with Judith's being a solo operation, on a small island and Corey's in a big city, with staff. This will be really fun and interesting and it will also give you two very different, yet valid perspectives.  What makes it live, is that in addition to this podcast version, there is also a video available, of the three of them, which will be posted on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well Designed Business, as well as on the LuAnn Nigara Facebook Page. LuAnn wants you to know that this format is a bit more laid back- more like a coffee jam session- and she also warns you about having these three crazies all in one place! Make no mistake about it, however, they're still going to be covering the business principals that you need to know, in order to be successful. At the end of the day, the goal is still to help you to be more productive and profitable.    They've decided to start off with an introduction of the philosophy of both Corey and Judith, so they have each made a list of the top things that they think you should do, or you should know, in order to be successful in the Design Industry. You don't need to take notes, because if you go to www.windowworks-nj.com/designbizlive1, you can get your free PDF download of 'The things I learned from Judith and Corey Design Biz Live Episode #1'. Listen in now and enjoy the new show!   Show highlights:   The first thing on Corey's list- To be really completely obsessive about drafting and graphic communication. And also...please spell correctly! Corey explains why your construction drawing really needs to be a work of art. The number one thing on Judith's list- Install a toilet, upholster a couch, hang wallpaper, mud and prep dry wall. In other words, get dirty. You really need to have an understanding of not only your trades and what's involved with the different aspects of the product that you're specifying or selling, but there is a respect aspect to this too, which you can only gain through getting a real understanding of the various skill sets involved with doing all of this- and doing it really well. Without this you're not going to be able to really connect with those trades. Number two on Corey's list- You need to take accounting classes. You really do need to know the difference between a mark up and a margin, gross profit and net profit and how much you cost- not how much you earn. The latter includes overheads, facilities, equipment, your hourly rate and your costs for  getting back and forth.  Number two on Judith's list- Work on a finish line at a Cabinet Manufacturers for at least two weeks. Not going to happen easily, but you should try! This is because you really have to have an understanding of the human element involved here. There are going to be imperfections- this is in the nature of the business, so this understanding helps lessen the shock or surprise value when something does go wrong. Number three on Corey's list- Visualise the details. Stand in the room for five minutes and design it in your mind. If you really can't do that, you're going to have trouble getting through the whole process. Number three on Judith's list-  Run the plumbing for your bath design and then do the tile installation. Think this through from the beginning. This is a fundamental, as it's about the reality of what happens on a job site, vs your drawings, vs life, vs product, vs the variation in the installation  process. This is, again, about having an understanding of  and a compassion for the trades. You can only get that through hands-on experience.  Number four on Corey's list- Don't think for a second that going out on your own is going to be easy. It isn't! It's going to be the hardest stuff you've ever done in your whole entire life, but, it's really so rewarding and so fun! Number four on Judith's list- Date a Lawyer and learn how to argue effectively. One of the huge challenges in the industry is that there's always conflict and conflict often comes up in communication.  This isn't about arguing, it's really about problem solving. About getting to the issue of what the conflict is about. It's about how to resolve things effectively and professionally, without creating more conflict. Number five for Corey- Use really solid contracts with clients. Don't kill them with the contracts, though. ASID has a set of contracts that you can purchase. Number five for Judith-  Take out your nose ring and go and work at Nordstrom for a year and learn how to dress. Find a style somewhere between Brad Pitt and Iris Apfel. It's really important for Trade Professionals to look professional. You really can make a personal statement and find a way to be neutral and appropriate to the situation, without challenging your customer.  Number six on Corey's list- Take credit cards. The fee that's charged is usually offset by the amount of work that you save from having to go to the bank to deposit a cheque.  Number six on Judith's list- Learn grace under pressure. Experience and manage customer triage. Work at a Big Box Store for a year. Great to learn to manage multiple clients at the same time and maintain grace, think on your feet in and do problem solving in a retail environment. Don't hire anyone without any retail experience. Number seven on Corey's list- Follow through on everything and think about the big picture. This is really important to solve those unresolved things that are hanging around and to nip them in the bud.  Number seven on Judith's list- Go old school and learn how to use a sharpie and paper to quick sketch your concepts.  This is just basic artistic ability- not tech. You can go to an art school to learn this. It's a really respected and impressive technique. Number eight on Corey's list- Document everything. You never know when you're going to need it! Number eight on Judith's list- Design something and build it. Not a 3D printed model- really build it yourself. You'll really get a fundamental understanding of how things are put together this way. Number nine on Corey's list- Don't cheap out on software and solutions. They really are your best efficiency machine. You can do the same amount of work and charge the same amount of money, or you can do less work and charge the same amount of money... Number nine on Judith's list- Learn the difference between a professional rejection and a personal one. They may not like you, but they should at least respect you. It's often hard to separate the two as creative professionals. This is learned usually through experience. Develop a professional perspective.   Links:   Corey's website: www.coreyklassen.ca   Judith's website: www.roadsideattractionstudio.com    Wed, 19 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today, LuAnn  is shaking it up a bit and introducing a new monthly feature, called  Design Biz Live. On the third Wednesday of every month, she will be talking with Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio and Corey  Klassen of... Today, LuAnn  is shaking it up a bit and introducing a new monthly feature, called  Design Biz Live. On the third Wednesday of every month, she will be talking with Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio and Corey  Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors and they will be discussing the specific problems and challenges that you are facing in your design firm. Somewhat similar to what LuAnn's been doing for the last eighteen months, however, with Design Biz Live, she will be dealing with the questions that you have by asking them of these two talented designers. So, it's the same, but different... Listen in to find out what it's all about!   If you'd like to know more about who Corey and Judith are, you can listen to episode #170, where LuAnn first met them and there you can hear all about their firms and their backgrounds. What really makes this new feature so actionable and worthy, is that Corey and Judith run two entirely different kinds of firms, with Judith's being a solo operation, on a small island and Corey's in a big city, with staff. This will be really fun and interesting and it will also give you two very different, yet valid perspectives.  What makes it live, is that in addition to this podcast version, there is also a video available, of the three of them, which will be posted on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well Designed Business, as well as on the LuAnn Nigara Facebook Page. LuAnn wants you to know that this format is a bit more laid back- more like a coffee jam session- and she also warns you about having these three crazies all in one place! Make no mistake about it, however, they're still going to be covering the business principals that you need to know, in order to be successful. At the end of the day, the goal is still to help you to be more productive and profitable.    They've decided to start off with an introduction of the philosophy of both Corey and Judith, so they have each made a list of the top things that they think you should do, or you should know, in order to be successful in the Design Industry. You don't need to take notes, because if you go to www.windowworks-nj.com/designbizlive1, you can get your free PDF download of 'The things I learned from Judith and Corey Design Biz Live Episode #1'. Listen in now and enjoy the new show!   Show highlights:   The first thing on Corey's list- To be really completely obsessive about drafting and graphic communication. And also...please spell correctly! Corey explains why your construction drawing really needs to be a work of art. The number one thing on Judith's list- Install a toilet, upholster a couch, hang wallpaper, mud and prep dry wall. In other words, get dirty. You really need to have an understanding of not only your trades and what's involved with the different aspects of the product that you're specifying or selling, but there is a respect aspect to this too, which you can only gain through getting a real understanding of the various skill sets involved with doing all of this- and doing it really well. Without this you're not going to be able to really connect with those trades. Number two on Corey's list- You need to take accounting classes. You really do need to know the difference between a mark up and a margin, gross profit and net profit and how much you cost- not how much you earn. The latter includes overheads, facilities, equipment, your hourly rate and your costs for  getting back and forth.  Number two on Judith's list- Work on a finish line at a Cabinet Manufacturers for at least two weeks. Not going to happen easily, but you should try! This is because you really have to have an understanding of the human element involved here. There are going to be imperfections- this is in the nature of the business, so this understanding helps lessen the shock or surprise value when something does go wrong. Number three on Corey's list- Visualise the details. Stand in the room for five minutes and design it in your mind. If you really can't do that, you're going to have trouble getting through the whole process. Number three on Judith's list-  Run the plumbing for your bath design and then do the tile installation. Think this through from the beginning. This is a fundamental, as it's about the reality of what happens on a job site, vs your drawings, vs life, vs product, vs the variation in the installation  process. This is, again, about having an understanding of  and a compassion for the trades. You can only get that through hands-on experience.  Number four on Corey's list- Don't think for a second that going out on your own is going to be easy. It isn't! It's going to be the hardest stuff you've ever done in your whole entire life, but, it's really so rewarding and so fun! Number four on Judith's list- Date a Lawyer and learn how to argue effectively. One of the huge challenges in the industry is that there's always conflict and conflict often comes up in communication.  This isn't about arguing, it's really about problem solving. About getting to the issue of what the conflict is about. It's about how to resolve things effectively and professionally, without creating more conflict. Number five for Corey- Use really solid contracts with clients. Don't kill them with the contracts, though. ASID has a set of contracts that you can purchase. Number five for Judith-  Take out your nose ring and go and work at Nordstrom for a year and learn how to dress. Find a style somewhere between Brad Pitt and Iris Apfel. It's really important for Trade Professionals to look professional. You really can make a personal statement and find a way to be neutral and appropriate to the situation, without challenging your customer.  Number six on Corey's list- Take credit cards. The fee that's charged is usually offset by the amount of work that you save from having to go to the bank to deposit a cheque.  Number six on Judith's list- Learn grace under pressure. Experience and manage customer triage. Work at a Big Box Store for a year. Great to learn to manage multiple clients at the same time and maintain grace, think on your feet in and do problem solving in a retail environment. Don't hire anyone without any retail experience. Number seven on Corey's list- Follow through on everything and think about the big picture. This is really important to solve those unresolved things that are hanging around and to nip them in the bud.  Number seven on Judith's list- Go old school and learn how to use a sharpie and paper to quick sketch your concepts.  This is just basic artistic ability- not tech. You can go to an art school to learn this. It's a really respected and impressive technique. Number eight on Corey's list- Document everything. You never know when you're going to need it! Number eight on Judith's list- Design something and build it. Not a 3D printed model- really build it yourself. You'll really get a fundamental understanding of how things are put together this way. Number nine on Corey's list- Don't cheap out on software and solutions. They really are your best efficiency machine. You can do the same amount of work and charge the same amount of money, or you can do less work and charge the same amount of money... Number nine on Judith's list- Learn the difference between a professional rejection and a personal one. They may not like you, but they should at least respect you. It's often hard to separate the two as creative professionals. This is learned usually through experience. Develop a professional perspective.   Links:   Corey's website: www.coreyklassen.ca   Judith's website: www.roadsideattractionstudio.com    Today, LuAnn  is shaking it up a bit and introducing a new monthly feature, called  Design Biz Live. On the third Wednesday of every month, she will be talking with Judith Neary of Roadside Attraction Design Studio and Corey  Klassen of Corey Klassen Interiors and they will be discussing the specific problems and challenges that you are facing in your design firm. Somewhat similar to what LuAnn's been doing for the last eighteen months, however, with Design Biz Live, she will be dealing with the questions that you have by asking them of these two talented designers. So, it's the same, but different... Listen in to find out what it's all about!

 

If you'd like to know more about who Corey and Judith are, you can listen to episode #170, where LuAnn first met them and there you can hear all about their firms and their backgrounds. What really makes this new feature so actionable and worthy, is that Corey and Judith run two entirely different kinds of firms, with Judith's being a solo operation, on a small island and Corey's in a big city, with staff. This will be really fun and interesting and it will also give you two very different, yet valid perspectives.  What makes it live, is that in addition to this podcast version, there is also a video available, of the three of them, which will be posted on LuAnn's Youtube channel, A Well Designed Business, as well as on the LuAnn Nigara Facebook Page. LuAnn wants you to know that this format is a bit more laid back- more like a coffee jam session- and she also warns you about having these three crazies all in one place! Make no mistake about it, however, they're still going to be covering the business principals that you need to know, in order to be successful. At the end of the day, the goal is still to help you to be more productive and profitable. 

 

They've decided to start off with an introduction of the philosophy of both Corey and Judith, so they have each made a list of the top things that they think you should do, or you should know, in order to be successful in the Design Industry. You don't need to take notes, because if you go to www.windowworks-nj.com/designbizlive1, you can get your free PDF download of 'The things I learned from Judith and Corey Design Biz Live Episode #1'. Listen in now and enjoy the new show!

 

Show highlights:

 

  • The first thing on Corey's list- To be really completely obsessive about drafting and graphic communication. And also...please spell correctly! Corey explains why your construction drawing really needs to be a work of art.
  • The number one thing on Judith's list- Install a toilet, upholster a couch, hang wallpaper, mud and prep dry wall. In other words, get dirty. You really need to have an understanding of not only your trades and what's involved with the different aspects of the product that you're specifying or selling, but there is a respect aspect to this too, which you can only gain through getting a real understanding of the various skill sets involved with doing all of this- and doing it really well. Without this you're not going to be able to really connect with those trades.
  • Number two on Corey's list- You need to take accounting classes. You really do need to know the difference between a mark up and a margin, gross profit and net profit and how much you cost- not how much you earn. The latter includes overheads, facilities, equipment, your hourly rate and your costs for  getting back and forth. 
  • Number two on Judith's list- Work on a finish line at a Cabinet Manufacturers for at least two weeks. Not going to happen easily, but you should try! This is because you really have to have an understanding of the human element involved here. There are going to be imperfections- this is in the nature of the business, so this understanding helps lessen the shock or surprise value when something does go wrong.
  • Number three on Corey's list- Visualise the details. Stand in the room for five minutes and design it in your mind. If you really can't do that, you're going to have trouble getting through the whole process.
  • Number three on Judith's list-  Run the plumbing for your bath design and then do the tile installation. Think this through from the beginning. This is a fundamental, as it's about the reality of what happens on a job site, vs your drawings, vs life, vs product, vs the variation in the installation  process. This is, again, about having an understanding of  and a compassion for the trades. You can only get that through hands-on experience. 
  • Number four on Corey's list- Don't think for a second that going out on your own is going to be easy. It isn't! It's going to be the hardest stuff you've ever done in your whole entire life, but, it's really so rewarding and so fun!
  • Number four on Judith's list- Date a Lawyer and learn how to argue effectively. One of the huge challenges in the industry is that there's always conflict and conflict often comes up in communication.  This isn't about arguing, it's really about problem solving. About getting to the issue of what the conflict is about. It's about how to resolve things effectively and professionally, without creating more conflict.
  • Number five for Corey- Use really solid contracts with clients. Don't kill them with the contracts, though. ASID has a set of contracts that you can purchase.
  • Number five for Judith-  Take out your nose ring and go and work at Nordstrom for a year and learn how to dress. Find a style somewhere between Brad Pitt and Iris Apfel. It's really important for Trade Professionals to look professional. You really can make a personal statement and find a way to be neutral and appropriate to the situation, without challenging your customer. 
  • Number six on Corey's list- Take credit cards. The fee that's charged is usually offset by the amount of work that you save from having to go to the bank to deposit a cheque. 
  • Number six on Judith's list- Learn grace under pressure. Experience and manage customer triage. Work at a Big Box Store for a year. Great to learn to manage multiple clients at the same time and maintain grace, think on your feet in and do problem solving in a retail environment. Don't hire anyone without any retail experience.
  • Number seven on Corey's list- Follow through on everything and think about the big picture. This is really important to solve those unresolved things that are hanging around and to nip them in the bud. 
  • Number seven on Judith's list- Go old school and learn how to use a sharpie and paper to quick sketch your concepts.  This is just basic artistic ability- not tech. You can go to an art school to learn this. It's a really respected and impressive technique.
  • Number eight on Corey's list- Document everything. You never know when you're going to need it!
  • Number eight on Judith's list- Design something and build it. Not a 3D printed model- really build it yourself. You'll really get a fundamental understanding of how things are put together this way.
  • Number nine on Corey's list- Don't cheap out on software and solutions. They really are your best efficiency machine. You can do the same amount of work and charge the same amount of money, or you can do less work and charge the same amount of money...
  • Number nine on Judith's list- Learn the difference between a professional rejection and a personal one. They may not like you, but they should at least respect you. It's often hard to separate the two as creative professionals. This is learned usually through experience. Develop a professional perspective.

 

Links:

 

Corey's website: www.coreyklassen.ca

 

Judith's website: www.roadsideattractionstudio.com 

 

]]> 4340 no 205: Lane Mc Nab: How Interior Designers and Contractors Work Together http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/205-lane-mc-nab-interior-design-and-contractor-working-together Today's guest is Lane McNab, of Lane McNab Interiors. Lane, just like Darla Powell, who appeared on last week's show, has also come to Interior Design as a second career. Listen in to find out all about Lane and how she's developed her really successful Interior Design Business. Lane grew up in Florida and attended school in both Tennessee and San Francisco. She continued her education at Oxford University and at Il Globo Institute, in Italy. Lane's Interior design career is backed with her vast experience and her work and her expertise have been featured in many places, including The Today Show, the East Bay AIA Tour Of Homes, Dwell, Modern Sanctuary, Lux Pad, 24 East, My Domain and also in her home town publication, Berkeleyside, as the go-to Interior Designer, for approachable ways to modernise an historical home. Listen in today, to find out how Lane's career path and the lessons that she's learned along the way have contributed to her success, both as a Designer and as a Business Person. Show highlights: Lane talks about her first career, as a solo opera singer, in the San Francisco Bay area- prior to her becoming a mom. How Lane first started out in 2004, working with a contractor on her own projects and how this eventually developed into Lane McNab Interiors. The Today Show wanted to include one of Lane's Design Projects in an article they were running, at a time when she still didn't even know if she really wanted to have a business. The point at which Lane realized that she could really take advantage of the fantastic opportunities that were coming her way, and start her business. Lane eventually shut down her blog and took a year to stay focused and she worked very closely with Julia Malloy as well as with a number of other consultants, prior to starting her business, as she realized that she really needed a jump start. The huge amount of confidence that Lane gained, from working with Julia Malloy. Lane always writes down anything that she doesn't understand, so that she can research it later because different projects always require different amounts of knowledge. Lane explains how she found the necessary help when making her transition to a much larger project. The really sage advice from Julia Malloy, that Lane still holds on to- 90% of successful entrepreneurs have the consistent quality of a high E.Q. Explaining to clients not only what the best design is, but why! The typical things that tend to trip Designers up, when working with construction. A memorable challenge that Lane faced with the cabinet guy, which became a valuable learning experience. Using a mistake as an opportunity to develop a really great relationship with the client. Lane's way of working with her vendors, or trade sources. Dealing with clients who aren't happy about having their project photographed. Not taking the first 'no' for an answer... The importance of being collaborative, as a Designer. Lane's outsourcing of her expediting- how and why it works for her. The importance of keeping really detailed notes as a reference, for Lane. Links: Labe's Website: lanemcnab.com Mon, 17 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest is Lane McNab, of Lane McNab Interiors. Lane, just like Darla Powell, who appeared on last week's show, has also come to Interior Design as a second career. Listen in to find out all about Lane and how she's developed her really... Today's guest is Lane McNab, of Lane McNab Interiors. Lane, just like Darla Powell, who appeared on last week's show, has also come to Interior Design as a second career. Listen in to find out all about Lane and how she's developed her really successful Interior Design Business. Lane grew up in Florida and attended school in both Tennessee and San Francisco. She continued her education at Oxford University and at Il Globo Institute, in Italy. Lane's Interior design career is backed with her vast experience and her work and her expertise have been featured in many places, including The Today Show, the East Bay AIA Tour Of Homes, Dwell, Modern Sanctuary, Lux Pad, 24 East, My Domain and also in her home town publication, Berkeleyside, as the go-to Interior Designer, for approachable ways to modernise an historical home. Listen in today, to find out how Lane's career path and the lessons that she's learned along the way have contributed to her success, both as a Designer and as a Business Person. Show highlights: Lane talks about her first career, as a solo opera singer, in the San Francisco Bay area- prior to her becoming a mom. How Lane first started out in 2004, working with a contractor on her own projects and how this eventually developed into Lane McNab Interiors. The Today Show wanted to include one of Lane's Design Projects in an article they were running, at a time when she still didn't even know if she really wanted to have a business. The point at which Lane realized that she could really take advantage of the fantastic opportunities that were coming her way, and start her business. Lane eventually shut down her blog and took a year to stay focused and she worked very closely with Julia Malloy as well as with a number of other consultants, prior to starting her business, as she realized that she really needed a jump start. The huge amount of confidence that Lane gained, from working with Julia Malloy. Lane always writes down anything that she doesn't understand, so that she can research it later because different projects always require different amounts of knowledge. Lane explains how she found the necessary help when making her transition to a much larger project. The really sage advice from Julia Malloy, that Lane still holds on to- 90% of successful entrepreneurs have the consistent quality of a high E.Q. Explaining to clients not only what the best design is, but why! The typical things that tend to trip Designers up, when working with construction. A memorable challenge that Lane faced with the cabinet guy, which became a valuable learning experience. Using a mistake as an opportunity to develop a really great relationship with the client. Lane's way of working with her vendors, or trade sources. Dealing with clients who aren't happy about having their project photographed. Not taking the first 'no' for an answer... The importance of being collaborative, as a Designer. Lane's outsourcing of her expediting- how and why it works for her. The importance of keeping really detailed notes as a reference, for Lane. Links: Labe's Website: lanemcnab.com Today's guest is Lane McNab, of Lane McNab Interiors. Lane, just like Darla Powell, who appeared on last week's show, has also come to Interior Design as a second career. Listen in to find out all about Lane and how she's developed her really successful Interior Design Business.

Lane grew up in Florida and attended school in both Tennessee and San Francisco. She continued her education at Oxford University and at Il Globo Institute, in Italy. Lane's Interior design career is backed with her vast experience and her work and her expertise have been featured in many places, including The Today Show, the East Bay AIA Tour Of Homes, Dwell, Modern Sanctuary, Lux Pad, 24 East, My Domain and also in her home town publication, Berkeleyside, as the go-to Interior Designer, for approachable ways to modernise an historical home. Listen in today, to find out how Lane's career path and the lessons that she's learned along the way have contributed to her success, both as a Designer and as a Business Person.

Show highlights:

  • Lane talks about her first career, as a solo opera singer, in the San Francisco Bay area- prior to her becoming a mom.
  • How Lane first started out in 2004, working with a contractor on her own projects and how this eventually developed into Lane McNab Interiors.
  • The Today Show wanted to include one of Lane's Design Projects in an article they were running, at a time when she still didn't even know if she really wanted to have a business.
  • The point at which Lane realized that she could really take advantage of the fantastic opportunities that were coming her way, and start her business.
  • Lane eventually shut down her blog and took a year to stay focused and she worked very closely with Julia Malloy as well as with a number of other consultants, prior to starting her business, as she realized that she really needed a jump start.
  • The huge amount of confidence that Lane gained, from working with Julia Malloy.
  • Lane always writes down anything that she doesn't understand, so that she can research it later because different projects always require different amounts of knowledge.
  • Lane explains how she found the necessary help when making her transition to a much larger project.
  • The really sage advice from Julia Malloy, that Lane still holds on to- 90% of successful entrepreneurs have the consistent quality of a high E.Q.
  • Explaining to clients not only what the best design is, but why!
  • The typical things that tend to trip Designers up, when working with construction.
  • A memorable challenge that Lane faced with the cabinet guy, which became a valuable learning experience.
  • Using a mistake as an opportunity to develop a really great relationship with the client.
  • Lane's way of working with her vendors, or trade sources.
  • Dealing with clients who aren't happy about having their project photographed.
  • Not taking the first 'no' for an answer...
  • The importance of being collaborative, as a Designer.
  • Lane's outsourcing of her expediting- how and why it works for her.
  • The importance of keeping really detailed notes as a reference, for Lane.

Links:

Labe's Website: lanemcnab.com

]]> 4827 no 204: Power Talk Friday: Kathy Knowles - How to Interview & Hire for your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/204-power-talk-friday-kathy-knowles-how-to-interview-hire-for-your-interior-design-firm The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Kathy Knowles, a former HR Director who has become an entrepreneur. Her company is called Intuitive Strategies and Consultants and Kathy has become known as The Soulful Business Mentor. She really understands the challenges one faces, when leaving behind a successful, yet unfulfilling six figure career, to build a more satisfying business and life. Kathy has more than twenty years of experience of maximizing people and potential, as an HR Director, which has given her a real advantage in helping you to create your own Heart and Soul Business. She and her team share proven strategies and formulas, to help you to establish a growth strategy that makes you more money and frees up more of your time. Magic words, right? Kathy's mission is to help more business owners and entrepreneurs to create a life of a business that they love, without sacrificing integrity, income, or sanity! There are really so many things that Kathy, as a talented Business Coach, could have discussed today, however, LuAnn decided to zero in on 'Help Business Owners Hire Right The First Time'. Even though LuAnn has owned a business for more than thirty years, she's really looking forward to this discussion, because for her, hiring really is one of the most troublesome parts of being in business. So, listen in, to get some great insights from Kathy's more than twenty years of experience. This is going to be a really jam-packed episode, as Kathy has a ton of information for you. She has prepared a list of questions that are very helpful in assisting you to make the right hire. Several of the questions will be discussed in the interview today, however, her list is really much more in-depth, so if you are about to hire, or if you struggle with how to do that, you will enjoy this interview. To get Kathy's really valuable list of questions, go to www.windowworks-nj.com/kathyk and click on The things I learned from Kathy Knowles. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Kathy explains that the process of hiring starts with you and being crystal clear about where you want to go with your business. Hiring around the things that you're not good at. Getting intuitively in touch with your business, in order to really grow your email list and to know which team member to hire. Knowing how to choose the right person, when hiring someone for the very first time- using the List Of Four and then breaking it down a little further. How to know when it's time to hire someone. Asking the right questions when interviewing a potential employee. Talking about money during an interview. Understanding that the way that someone interacts with you during an interview, will be the way that they will interact with your clients, should you hire them. The importance of asking specific questions during an interview, even if you really hit it off with them. Why you really shouldn't talk too much, when interviewing someone. The kinds of questions that are more likely to elicit a true response from an interviewee. The importance of employees being accountable. Some suggestions for great questions to ask a potential employee, during an interview. Creating interview questions around a personality profile- like Disc or Kolbe. Links: Kathy's website: www.kathyknowles.com – This is where you will find her free Gaining More Loyal Customers resource. For Kathy's free Find and Fill resource, go to: www.kathyknowles.com\find-and-fill\ Kathy's email: kathy@kathyknowles.com Fri, 14 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Kathy Knowles, a former HR Director who has become an entrepreneur. Her company is called Intuitive Strategies and Consultants and Kathy has become known as The Soulful Business Mentor. She really understands... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Kathy Knowles, a former HR Director who has become an entrepreneur. Her company is called Intuitive Strategies and Consultants and Kathy has become known as The Soulful Business Mentor. She really understands the challenges one faces, when leaving behind a successful, yet unfulfilling six figure career, to build a more satisfying business and life. Kathy has more than twenty years of experience of maximizing people and potential, as an HR Director, which has given her a real advantage in helping you to create your own Heart and Soul Business. She and her team share proven strategies and formulas, to help you to establish a growth strategy that makes you more money and frees up more of your time. Magic words, right? Kathy's mission is to help more business owners and entrepreneurs to create a life of a business that they love, without sacrificing integrity, income, or sanity! There are really so many things that Kathy, as a talented Business Coach, could have discussed today, however, LuAnn decided to zero in on 'Help Business Owners Hire Right The First Time'. Even though LuAnn has owned a business for more than thirty years, she's really looking forward to this discussion, because for her, hiring really is one of the most troublesome parts of being in business. So, listen in, to get some great insights from Kathy's more than twenty years of experience. This is going to be a really jam-packed episode, as Kathy has a ton of information for you. She has prepared a list of questions that are very helpful in assisting you to make the right hire. Several of the questions will be discussed in the interview today, however, her list is really much more in-depth, so if you are about to hire, or if you struggle with how to do that, you will enjoy this interview. To get Kathy's really valuable list of questions, go to www.windowworks-nj.com/kathyk and click on The things I learned from Kathy Knowles. Listen in now, to find out more. Show highlights: Kathy explains that the process of hiring starts with you and being crystal clear about where you want to go with your business. Hiring around the things that you're not good at. Getting intuitively in touch with your business, in order to really grow your email list and to know which team member to hire. Knowing how to choose the right person, when hiring someone for the very first time- using the List Of Four and then breaking it down a little further. How to know when it's time to hire someone. Asking the right questions when interviewing a potential employee. Talking about money during an interview. Understanding that the way that someone interacts with you during an interview, will be the way that they will interact with your clients, should you hire them. The importance of asking specific questions during an interview, even if you really hit it off with them. Why you really shouldn't talk too much, when interviewing someone. The kinds of questions that are more likely to elicit a true response from an interviewee. The importance of employees being accountable. Some suggestions for great questions to ask a potential employee, during an interview. Creating interview questions around a personality profile- like Disc or Kolbe. Links: Kathy's website: www.kathyknowles.com – This is where you will find her free Gaining More Loyal Customers resource. For Kathy's free Find and Fill resource, go to: www.kathyknowles.com\find-and-fill\ Kathy's email: kathy@kathyknowles.com The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Kathy Knowles, a former HR Director who has become an entrepreneur. Her company is called Intuitive Strategies and Consultants and Kathy has become known as The Soulful Business Mentor. She really understands the challenges one faces, when leaving behind a successful, yet unfulfilling six figure career, to build a more satisfying business and life. Kathy has more than twenty years of experience of maximizing people and potential, as an HR Director, which has given her a real advantage in helping you to create your own Heart and Soul Business.

She and her team share proven strategies and formulas, to help you to establish a growth strategy that makes you more money and frees up more of your time. Magic words, right? Kathy's mission is to help more business owners and entrepreneurs to create a life of a business that they love, without sacrificing integrity, income, or sanity! There are really so many things that Kathy, as a talented Business Coach, could have discussed today, however, LuAnn decided to zero in on 'Help Business Owners Hire Right The First Time'. Even though LuAnn has owned a business for more than thirty years, she's really looking forward to this discussion, because for her, hiring really is one of the most troublesome parts of being in business. So, listen in, to get some great insights from Kathy's more than twenty years of experience.

This is going to be a really jam-packed episode, as Kathy has a ton of information for you. She has prepared a list of questions that are very helpful in assisting you to make the right hire. Several of the questions will be discussed in the interview today, however, her list is really much more in-depth, so if you are about to hire, or if you struggle with how to do that, you will enjoy this interview. To get Kathy's really valuable list of questions, go to www.windowworks-nj.com/kathyk and click on The things I learned from Kathy Knowles. Listen in now, to find out more.

Show highlights:

  • Kathy explains that the process of hiring starts with you and being crystal clear about where you want to go with your business.
  • Hiring around the things that you're not good at.
  • Getting intuitively in touch with your business, in order to really grow your email list and to know which team member to hire.
  • Knowing how to choose the right person, when hiring someone for the very first time- using the List Of Four and then breaking it down a little further.
  • How to know when it's time to hire someone.
  • Asking the right questions when interviewing a potential employee. Talking about money during an interview.
  • Understanding that the way that someone interacts with you during an interview, will be the way that they will interact with your clients, should you hire them.
  • The importance of asking specific questions during an interview, even if you really hit it off with them.
  • Why you really shouldn't talk too much, when interviewing someone. The kinds of questions that are more likely to elicit a true response from an interviewee.
  • The importance of employees being accountable. Some suggestions for great questions to ask a potential employee, during an interview.
  • Creating interview questions around a personality profile- like Disc or Kolbe.
  • Links:

Kathy's website: www.kathyknowles.com – This is where you will find her free Gaining More Loyal Customers resource.

For Kathy's free Find and Fill resource, go to: www.kathyknowles.com\find-and-fill\

Kathy's email: kathy@kathyknowles.com

]]> 4417 no 203: Darla Powell - How to Launch an Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/203-darla-powell-how-to-launch-an-interior-design-firm The guest for today's show is the truly remarkable Darla Powell, of Darla Powell Interiors, in Florida. Darla and LuAnn initially became friends through the social media of the podcast and then continued their friendship with conversations on the Designer Facebook Groups that they were both in and also through Instagram. It's not unusual for LuAnn to become friends with the people that she interviews for the podcast, and she and Darla also have a few friends in common (Mark McDonough from Tastefully Inspired and Karina from Superior K Interiors), so she really thought she knew all about her, until she went out and did her research for the interview. Then she was truly surprised to learn a few things about Darla that she didn't know before! Listen in to find out all about these surprising details. Mark McDonough was actually the person who suggested to LuAnn that she should consider having Darla on the show. He pointed out that this was a second career for her and that she was going to be a truly amazing Interior Designer, as she was really putting her all into it, after having retired from her first career. Listen in now, to find out more about Darla and how she came to be doing what she does now. Show highlights: Darla talks to LuAnn about her first career- in Law Enforcement, for eighteen and a half years, as a Detective Sargent with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where she thought about quitting her job and becoming an Interior Designer almost every day! Darla talks about her long journey from Law Enforcement to Interior Design. How Darla really became really motivated to become an Interior Designer, after listening to one of LuAnn's podcasts, with Mark McDonough. Darla's Instagram is only seven or eight months old and it already has way over seven thousand followers! The biggest tip that Mark McDonough gave to Darla, about finding brands that align with her work and commenting on their posts straight away. The great value in taking the time to be genuine and really engaging with people on social media. This makes you human and really helps your brand- and gets people to stay with you. As long as you're putting out great content, your fans will still love you, even if you don't follow them back. LuAnn and Darla discuss the portfolio which is up on Darla's website, which is actually her entire own home, done on a limited budget. Darla talks about the fabulous blog, which is called Wing-nuts and Wallpaper and really reflects her brand voice. How Darla boosts her following with her blog and with her Facebook posts. How Nicole Heimer, (Episode #125) a really rockstar brander, has really helped Darla. Some areas where Darla has felt a bit overwhelmed with her new career and what she's found helpful at these times. How Susan Winterstein really helped Darla with her process, with an organized chart to inform the client about the whole design process. Why Darla quit her first career way sooner than she originally intended to do so. Links: Darla's website: www.darlapowell.com, where you will also find Darla's blog, Wing-nuts and Wallpaper. Resource: Business of Design, Volume 3- Win The Flat Fee Game by Kimberley Seldon Wed, 12 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's show is the truly remarkable Darla Powell, of Darla Powell Interiors, in Florida. Darla and LuAnn initially became friends through the social media of the podcast and then continued their friendship with conversations on the... The guest for today's show is the truly remarkable Darla Powell, of Darla Powell Interiors, in Florida. Darla and LuAnn initially became friends through the social media of the podcast and then continued their friendship with conversations on the Designer Facebook Groups that they were both in and also through Instagram. It's not unusual for LuAnn to become friends with the people that she interviews for the podcast, and she and Darla also have a few friends in common (Mark McDonough from Tastefully Inspired and Karina from Superior K Interiors), so she really thought she knew all about her, until she went out and did her research for the interview. Then she was truly surprised to learn a few things about Darla that she didn't know before! Listen in to find out all about these surprising details. Mark McDonough was actually the person who suggested to LuAnn that she should consider having Darla on the show. He pointed out that this was a second career for her and that she was going to be a truly amazing Interior Designer, as she was really putting her all into it, after having retired from her first career. Listen in now, to find out more about Darla and how she came to be doing what she does now. Show highlights: Darla talks to LuAnn about her first career- in Law Enforcement, for eighteen and a half years, as a Detective Sargent with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where she thought about quitting her job and becoming an Interior Designer almost every day! Darla talks about her long journey from Law Enforcement to Interior Design. How Darla really became really motivated to become an Interior Designer, after listening to one of LuAnn's podcasts, with Mark McDonough. Darla's Instagram is only seven or eight months old and it already has way over seven thousand followers! The biggest tip that Mark McDonough gave to Darla, about finding brands that align with her work and commenting on their posts straight away. The great value in taking the time to be genuine and really engaging with people on social media. This makes you human and really helps your brand- and gets people to stay with you. As long as you're putting out great content, your fans will still love you, even if you don't follow them back. LuAnn and Darla discuss the portfolio which is up on Darla's website, which is actually her entire own home, done on a limited budget. Darla talks about the fabulous blog, which is called Wing-nuts and Wallpaper and really reflects her brand voice. How Darla boosts her following with her blog and with her Facebook posts. How Nicole Heimer, (Episode #125) a really rockstar brander, has really helped Darla. Some areas where Darla has felt a bit overwhelmed with her new career and what she's found helpful at these times. How Susan Winterstein really helped Darla with her process, with an organized chart to inform the client about the whole design process. Why Darla quit her first career way sooner than she originally intended to do so. Links: Darla's website: www.darlapowell.com, where you will also find Darla's blog, Wing-nuts and Wallpaper. Resource: Business of Design, Volume 3- Win The Flat Fee Game by Kimberley Seldon The guest for today's show is the truly remarkable Darla Powell, of Darla Powell Interiors, in Florida. Darla and LuAnn initially became friends through the social media of the podcast and then continued their friendship with conversations on the Designer Facebook Groups that they were both in and also through Instagram. It's not unusual for LuAnn to become friends with the people that she interviews for the podcast, and she and Darla also have a few friends in common (Mark McDonough from Tastefully Inspired and Karina from Superior K Interiors), so she really thought she knew all about her, until she went out and did her research for the interview. Then she was truly surprised to learn a few things about Darla that she didn't know before! Listen in to find out all about these surprising details.

Mark McDonough was actually the person who suggested to LuAnn that she should consider having Darla on the show. He pointed out that this was a second career for her and that she was going to be a truly amazing Interior Designer, as she was really putting her all into it, after having retired from her first career. Listen in now, to find out more about Darla and how she came to be doing what she does now.

Show highlights:

  • Darla talks to LuAnn about her first career- in Law Enforcement, for eighteen and a half years, as a Detective Sargent with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where she thought about quitting her job and becoming an Interior Designer almost every day!
  • Darla talks about her long journey from Law Enforcement to Interior Design.
  • How Darla really became really motivated to become an Interior Designer, after listening to one of LuAnn's podcasts, with Mark McDonough.
  • Darla's Instagram is only seven or eight months old and it already has way over seven thousand followers!
  • The biggest tip that Mark McDonough gave to Darla, about finding brands that align with her work and commenting on their posts straight away.
  • The great value in taking the time to be genuine and really engaging with people on social media. This makes you human and really helps your brand- and gets people to stay with you.
  • As long as you're putting out great content, your fans will still love you, even if you don't follow them back.
  • LuAnn and Darla discuss the portfolio which is up on Darla's website, which is actually her entire own home, done on a limited budget.
  • Darla talks about the fabulous blog, which is called Wing-nuts and Wallpaper and really reflects her brand voice.
  • How Darla boosts her following with her blog and with her Facebook posts.
  • How Nicole Heimer, (Episode #125) a really rockstar brander, has really helped Darla.
  • Some areas where Darla has felt a bit overwhelmed with her new career and what she's found helpful at these times.
  • How Susan Winterstein really helped Darla with her process, with an organized chart to inform the client about the whole design process.
  • Why Darla quit her first career way sooner than she originally intended to do so.

Links:

Darla's website: www.darlapowell.com, where you will also find Darla's blog, Wing-nuts and Wallpaper.

Resource:

Business of Design, Volume 3- Win The Flat Fee Game by Kimberley Seldon

]]> 4048 no 202: Enoch Sears: Business of Architecture Podcast Host and Founder of Architects Marketing Institute http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/202-enoch-sears-business-of-architecture-podcast-host-and-founder-of-architects-marketing-institute The guest on today's show is Enoch Bartlett Sears, a licensed California Architect and the founder and publisher of Business of Architecture. He's the creator and host of The Business of Architecture, the number one podcast for Architects and he is also the co-founder of The Architect Marketing Institute. LuAnn had to wait quite a while to get to interview Enoch, as he really is busy, so she's grateful and very glad that he found an hour for her today and she thinks that you're going to be glad too! Listen in, to find out how you can increase both the income and the efficiency of your business, with the fantastic resources that Enoch has for you. LuAnn came across Enoch because of his podcast. She's a regular listener and really enjoys his show and thinks that what he does is really terrific! She finds that he actually does a lot of the same things that she does on her podcast, except that his target is Architects, so she just switches the word 'Architect' in her mind, for Interior Designer. Enoch interviews Architects on how they run their firms and what they do to increase their income and efficiency. He also talks with outside Industry Experts, as does LuAnn on her Power Talk Fridays, to help Architects to increase the profitability of their firms. This is why LuAnn thought that this would be such a great fit for this show. Enoch is also a Business Coach and he's become famous for helping Architects to grow their firms and their income and increase their freedom, through the use of effective Client Strategies. Enoch went through one of his very actionable strategies, a Twelve Step Questionnaire process, called Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push, which he recommends to Architects, with LuAnn. This was developed by Enoch's partner, Richard Petrie, who's known as The World's Leading Architect Marketing Coach. LuAnn was really impressed with it and as she went through it with him, she found that it could be translated right to Interior Designers. So listen in now, to find out more about this questionnaire which you could apply to yourself, to help you to attract your ideal Interior Design projects and clients. Show highlights: How to deal with the fears and insecurities that often exist between Design Professionals. A tip for Interior Designers, to deliver more value when wanting to do work with Architects. Enoch goes through his Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push. Number one- Asking if are all the decision makers are present. Number two- Setting the format and the ground rules for the meeting, in order to maintain an alpha position. Number three- Framing the meeting's purpose and it's time frame with the client. Number four- Asking the client some background questions, to discover their current situation or the 'now'. You really need to be quiet and listen carefully here! Number five- Understand the client's goals and objectives and their vision for the future and also, how they want to feel in the space. Try to get the emotional impact of what they're going for. Number six- Ask your success criteria questions, about how the client would know if they've achieved a successful project with you. This would involve helping them to imagine the future and to talk to you about what they are imaging. Number seven- Ask your client what it would mean to them, to have achieved their objectives. This will be an emotional question, bringing out emotional answers, to discover their emotional drivers. Number eight- Ask their current plans to achieve their objectives and find out the degree to which they are already on track. This is where you find out about any obstacles or challenges they may be worried about and also, how much time they have for the process. Number nine- Ask them about the consequences, if they don't meet their objectives. This is about discovering their degree of motivation, to do the project and follow through on it and helping them to connect their current decisions with the consequences of those decisions. Number ten- Ask the timing questions, about when they want to get their new results completed. Number eleven- Map out the road to success with your client, with their options. This is where you really need to bring all your professional training to bear and look at the gap between where they are now and where they want to get to. Number twelve- Book the next few meetings, if you feel that this client is a good fit. The really great value in Designers creating contacts with Architects. How you as a Designer, can best reach out to an Architect, to arrange a meeting about the possibility of working together. What Architects really want to work on. Ways that you can bring value to architects, as a Designer and get them to work together with you. What Enoch does on his podcast and how you can find him, at The Business Of Architecture, on iTunes. Links: https://archmarketing.org/ https://www.businessofarchitecture.com For some awesome, free giveaways: Go to: www.archmarketing.org/awelldesignedbusiness and give your email address, to get your free PDF download of the questions and frameworks mentioned on the show, as well as the two questions that Richard Petrie calls his Mind Cannon. Mon, 10 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Enoch Bartlett Sears, a licensed California Architect and the founder and publisher of Business of Architecture. He's the creator and host of The Business of Architecture, the number one podcast for Architects and he is... The guest on today's show is Enoch Bartlett Sears, a licensed California Architect and the founder and publisher of Business of Architecture. He's the creator and host of The Business of Architecture, the number one podcast for Architects and he is also the co-founder of The Architect Marketing Institute. LuAnn had to wait quite a while to get to interview Enoch, as he really is busy, so she's grateful and very glad that he found an hour for her today and she thinks that you're going to be glad too! Listen in, to find out how you can increase both the income and the efficiency of your business, with the fantastic resources that Enoch has for you. LuAnn came across Enoch because of his podcast. She's a regular listener and really enjoys his show and thinks that what he does is really terrific! She finds that he actually does a lot of the same things that she does on her podcast, except that his target is Architects, so she just switches the word 'Architect' in her mind, for Interior Designer. Enoch interviews Architects on how they run their firms and what they do to increase their income and efficiency. He also talks with outside Industry Experts, as does LuAnn on her Power Talk Fridays, to help Architects to increase the profitability of their firms. This is why LuAnn thought that this would be such a great fit for this show. Enoch is also a Business Coach and he's become famous for helping Architects to grow their firms and their income and increase their freedom, through the use of effective Client Strategies. Enoch went through one of his very actionable strategies, a Twelve Step Questionnaire process, called Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push, which he recommends to Architects, with LuAnn. This was developed by Enoch's partner, Richard Petrie, who's known as The World's Leading Architect Marketing Coach. LuAnn was really impressed with it and as she went through it with him, she found that it could be translated right to Interior Designers. So listen in now, to find out more about this questionnaire which you could apply to yourself, to help you to attract your ideal Interior Design projects and clients. Show highlights: How to deal with the fears and insecurities that often exist between Design Professionals. A tip for Interior Designers, to deliver more value when wanting to do work with Architects. Enoch goes through his Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push. Number one- Asking if are all the decision makers are present. Number two- Setting the format and the ground rules for the meeting, in order to maintain an alpha position. Number three- Framing the meeting's purpose and it's time frame with the client. Number four- Asking the client some background questions, to discover their current situation or the 'now'. You really need to be quiet and listen carefully here! Number five- Understand the client's goals and objectives and their vision for the future and also, how they want to feel in the space. Try to get the emotional impact of what they're going for. Number six- Ask your success criteria questions, about how the client would know if they've achieved a successful project with you. This would involve helping them to imagine the future and to talk to you about what they are imaging. Number seven- Ask your client what it would mean to them, to have achieved their objectives. This will be an emotional question, bringing out emotional answers, to discover their emotional drivers. Number eight- Ask their current plans to achieve their objectives and find out the degree to which they are already on track. This is where you find out about any obstacles or challenges they may be worried about and also, how much time they have for the process. Number nine- Ask them about the consequences, if they don't meet their objectives. This is about discovering their degree of motivation, to do the project and follow through on it and helping them to connect their current decisions with the consequences of those decisions. Number ten- Ask the timing questions, about when they want to get their new results completed. Number eleven- Map out the road to success with your client, with their options. This is where you really need to bring all your professional training to bear and look at the gap between where they are now and where they want to get to. Number twelve- Book the next few meetings, if you feel that this client is a good fit. The really great value in Designers creating contacts with Architects. How you as a Designer, can best reach out to an Architect, to arrange a meeting about the possibility of working together. What Architects really want to work on. Ways that you can bring value to architects, as a Designer and get them to work together with you. What Enoch does on his podcast and how you can find him, at The Business Of Architecture, on iTunes. Links: https://archmarketing.org/ https://www.businessofarchitecture.com For some awesome, free giveaways: Go to: www.archmarketing.org/awelldesignedbusiness and give your email address, to get your free PDF download of the questions and frameworks mentioned on the show, as well as the two questions that Richard Petrie calls his Mind Cannon. The guest on today's show is Enoch Bartlett Sears, a licensed California Architect and the founder and publisher of Business of Architecture. He's the creator and host of The Business of Architecture, the number one podcast for Architects and he is also the co-founder of The Architect Marketing Institute. LuAnn had to wait quite a while to get to interview Enoch, as he really is busy, so she's grateful and very glad that he found an hour for her today and she thinks that you're going to be glad too! Listen in, to find out how you can increase both the income and the efficiency of your business, with the fantastic resources that Enoch has for you.

LuAnn came across Enoch because of his podcast. She's a regular listener and really enjoys his show and thinks that what he does is really terrific! She finds that he actually does a lot of the same things that she does on her podcast, except that his target is Architects, so she just switches the word 'Architect' in her mind, for Interior Designer. Enoch interviews Architects on how they run their firms and what they do to increase their income and efficiency. He also talks with outside Industry Experts, as does LuAnn on her Power Talk Fridays, to help Architects to increase the profitability of their firms. This is why LuAnn thought that this would be such a great fit for this show. Enoch is also a Business Coach and he's become famous for helping Architects to grow their firms and their income and increase their freedom, through the use of effective Client Strategies.

Enoch went through one of his very actionable strategies, a Twelve Step Questionnaire process, called Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push, which he recommends to Architects, with LuAnn. This was developed by Enoch's partner, Richard Petrie, who's known as The World's Leading Architect Marketing Coach. LuAnn was really impressed with it and as she went through it with him, she found that it could be translated right to Interior Designers. So listen in now, to find out more about this questionnaire which you could apply to yourself, to help you to attract your ideal Interior Design projects and clients.

Show highlights:

  • How to deal with the fears and insecurities that often exist between Design Professionals.
  • A tip for Interior Designers, to deliver more value when wanting to do work with Architects.
  • Enoch goes through his Twelve Questions To Ask Before Your Meeting- So You Know What Hot Buttons To Push.
  • Number one- Asking if are all the decision makers are present.
  • Number two- Setting the format and the ground rules for the meeting, in order to maintain an alpha position.
  • Number three- Framing the meeting's purpose and it's time frame with the client.
  • Number four- Asking the client some background questions, to discover their current situation or the 'now'. You really need to be quiet and listen carefully here!
  • Number five- Understand the client's goals and objectives and their vision for the future and also, how they want to feel in the space. Try to get the emotional impact of what they're going for.
  • Number six- Ask your success criteria questions, about how the client would know if they've achieved a successful project with you. This would involve helping them to imagine the future and to talk to you about what they are imaging.
  • Number seven- Ask your client what it would mean to them, to have achieved their objectives. This will be an emotional question, bringing out emotional answers, to discover their emotional drivers.
  • Number eight- Ask their current plans to achieve their objectives and find out the degree to which they are already on track. This is where you find out about any obstacles or challenges they may be worried about and also, how much time they have for the process.
  • Number nine- Ask them about the consequences, if they don't meet their objectives. This is about discovering their degree of motivation, to do the project and follow through on it and helping them to connect their current decisions with the consequences of those decisions.
  • Number ten- Ask the timing questions, about when they want to get their new results completed.
  • Number eleven- Map out the road to success with your client, with their options. This is where you really need to bring all your professional training to bear and look at the gap between where they are now and where they want to get to.
  • Number twelve- Book the next few meetings, if you feel that this client is a good fit.
  • The really great value in Designers creating contacts with Architects.
  • How you as a Designer, can best reach out to an Architect, to arrange a meeting about the possibility of working together.
  • What Architects really want to work on.
  • Ways that you can bring value to architects, as a Designer and get them to work together with you.
  • What Enoch does on his podcast and how you can find him, at The Business Of Architecture, on iTunes.

Links:

https://archmarketing.org/ https://www.businessofarchitecture.com

For some awesome, free giveaways:

Go to: www.archmarketing.org/awelldesignedbusiness and give your email address, to get your free PDF download of the questions and frameworks mentioned on the show, as well as the two questions that Richard Petrie calls his Mind Cannon.

]]> 4599 no 201: Power Talk Friday: Dorien Morin-van Dam- How to Get Through the Fear of Doing Video http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/201-power-talk-friday-dorien-morin-van-dam-how-to-get-through-the-fear-of-doing-video The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Dorien Morin-van Dam, the Owner and Social-Media Consultant with More In Media, which is located in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dorien helps Small Businesses Owners with their strategies, planning, and execution, around Social Media. Listen in to find out more about Dorien and what she has to share, to help Small Business Owners with their Video Marketing on Social Media. Dorien is a Coach and Trainer, who concentrates on Video Marketing and  Social Media Management. She particularly enjoys working with Video Coaching and helping people to overcome their fear of the camera. This is something that she runs into all the time, with local clients and Small Business owners who really need to be on camera, yet have real fear around doing that. Dorien has found that here is such a great need for this right now, with Video Marketing being so popular, that she is also busy writing a book about it. Dorien, who's a Mom with four teens and three dogs, loves to run marathons and cook and eat vegan food. She also really enjoys teaching, blogging and speaking about Social Media. Listen in now, to find out more about how Dorien helps people to overcome their fears about appearing in front of a camera. Today, Dorien talks to LuAnn about: The fear that so many people experience, of appearing on camera. That there really is an easy way to overcome that fear. That although she has no fear of the camera, she did have another extreme fear, through which she developed the necessary empathy to help others to overcome their fears around cameras. The story about her epiphany- which enabled her to overcome her own fear and help others to do the same. How she helps people to get ready to appear in front of the camera. A new acronym for FEAR- that, instead of Fearing Everything And Running, you can learn to Face Everything And R The Rise of Video in Social Media and the tremendous opportunities that it can bring for you, with this year being The Year Of The Live Video in Social Media. The fantastic new developments coming up on Facebook, for Virtual Reality Meetings. That the reach of a video is so much greater than either using pictures, or text. Facebook Live- how it's pushing Video and where it's going. Why Dorien thinks that you can't fail with Video- if you go through her process. Low-cost ways of creating Videos. Replacing your fear of how you look with a love for your brand. The more you watch yourself on video, the more you get over your fear of it. Really awesome tips for creating really great, confident videos of yourself, before going live on Facebook. Being authentic, to better connect with people on video. How to catch people's eye in the first few seconds, with your video. Some ideas for you to use, to market yourself with video. Using what's going on around you currently, as a topic for your video. Creating great content for your videos. How to straddle the fine line between oversharing and too little content on your video. Re-purposing your content, for great results. Dorien's book, No Fear Video, which will be coming out later this year. Links: Dorien's website: www.moreinmedia.com Fri, 07 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Dorien Morin-van Dam, the Owner and Social-Media Consultant with More In Media, which is located in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dorien helps Small Businesses Owners with their strategies, planning, and... The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Dorien Morin-van Dam, the Owner and Social-Media Consultant with More In Media, which is located in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dorien helps Small Businesses Owners with their strategies, planning, and execution, around Social Media. Listen in to find out more about Dorien and what she has to share, to help Small Business Owners with their Video Marketing on Social Media. Dorien is a Coach and Trainer, who concentrates on Video Marketing and  Social Media Management. She particularly enjoys working with Video Coaching and helping people to overcome their fear of the camera. This is something that she runs into all the time, with local clients and Small Business owners who really need to be on camera, yet have real fear around doing that. Dorien has found that here is such a great need for this right now, with Video Marketing being so popular, that she is also busy writing a book about it. Dorien, who's a Mom with four teens and three dogs, loves to run marathons and cook and eat vegan food. She also really enjoys teaching, blogging and speaking about Social Media. Listen in now, to find out more about how Dorien helps people to overcome their fears about appearing in front of a camera. Today, Dorien talks to LuAnn about: The fear that so many people experience, of appearing on camera. That there really is an easy way to overcome that fear. That although she has no fear of the camera, she did have another extreme fear, through which she developed the necessary empathy to help others to overcome their fears around cameras. The story about her epiphany- which enabled her to overcome her own fear and help others to do the same. How she helps people to get ready to appear in front of the camera. A new acronym for FEAR- that, instead of Fearing Everything And Running, you can learn to Face Everything And R The Rise of Video in Social Media and the tremendous opportunities that it can bring for you, with this year being The Year Of The Live Video in Social Media. The fantastic new developments coming up on Facebook, for Virtual Reality Meetings. That the reach of a video is so much greater than either using pictures, or text. Facebook Live- how it's pushing Video and where it's going. Why Dorien thinks that you can't fail with Video- if you go through her process. Low-cost ways of creating Videos. Replacing your fear of how you look with a love for your brand. The more you watch yourself on video, the more you get over your fear of it. Really awesome tips for creating really great, confident videos of yourself, before going live on Facebook. Being authentic, to better connect with people on video. How to catch people's eye in the first few seconds, with your video. Some ideas for you to use, to market yourself with video. Using what's going on around you currently, as a topic for your video. Creating great content for your videos. How to straddle the fine line between oversharing and too little content on your video. Re-purposing your content, for great results. Dorien's book, No Fear Video, which will be coming out later this year. Links: Dorien's website: www.moreinmedia.com The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Dorien Morin-van Dam, the Owner and Social-Media Consultant with More In Media, which is located in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dorien helps Small Businesses Owners with their strategies, planning, and execution, around Social Media. Listen in to find out more about Dorien and what she has to share, to help Small Business Owners with their Video Marketing on Social Media.

Dorien is a Coach and Trainer, who concentrates on Video Marketing and  Social Media Management. She particularly enjoys working with Video Coaching and helping people to overcome their fear of the camera. This is something that she runs into all the time, with local clients and Small Business owners who really need to be on camera, yet have real fear around doing that. Dorien has found that here is such a great need for this right now, with Video Marketing being so popular, that she is also busy writing a book about it. Dorien, who's a Mom with four teens and three dogs, loves to run marathons and cook and eat vegan food. She also really enjoys teaching, blogging and speaking about Social Media. Listen in now, to find out more about how Dorien helps people to overcome their fears about appearing in front of a camera.

Today, Dorien talks to LuAnn about:

  • The fear that so many people experience, of appearing on camera.
  • That there really is an easy way to overcome that fear.
  • That although she has no fear of the camera, she did have another extreme fear, through which she developed the necessary empathy to help others to overcome their fears around cameras.
  • The story about her epiphany- which enabled her to overcome her own fear and help others to do the same.
  • How she helps people to get ready to appear in front of the camera.
  • A new acronym for FEAR- that, instead of Fearing Everything And Running, you can learn to Face Everything And R
  • The Rise of Video in Social Media and the tremendous opportunities that it can bring for you, with this year being The Year Of The Live Video in Social Media.
  • The fantastic new developments coming up on Facebook, for Virtual Reality Meetings.
  • That the reach of a video is so much greater than either using pictures, or text.
  • Facebook Live- how it's pushing Video and where it's going.
  • Why Dorien thinks that you can't fail with Video- if you go through her process.
  • Low-cost ways of creating Videos.
  • Replacing your fear of how you look with a love for your brand.
  • The more you watch yourself on video, the more you get over your fear of it.
  • Really awesome tips for creating really great, confident videos of yourself, before going live on Facebook.
  • Being authentic, to better connect with people on video.
  • How to catch people's eye in the first few seconds, with your video.
  • Some ideas for you to use, to market yourself with video.
  • Using what's going on around you currently, as a topic for your video.
  • Creating great content for your videos.
  • How to straddle the fine line between oversharing and too little content on your video.
  • Re-purposing your content, for great results.

Dorien's book, No Fear Video, which will be coming out later this year.

Links:

Dorien's website: www.moreinmedia.com

]]> 3409 no 200: LuAnn Nigara: Excellence is a Decision- Keynote from IWCE 2017 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/200-luann-nigara-excellence-is-a-decision-keynote-from-iwce-2017 Today's show is taken from LuAnn's presentation that she gave at the I.W.C.E. LuAnn starts her presentation by explaining the mix that goes into creating a really successful business. She points out that you are actually your own magic pill and that you really do have the ability when it comes down to making decisions. All that you need is to have confidence in yourself and to know that you have a good business and that you're a good business leader. Then, you have to identify the obstacles and make a plan, rather than running away from them. The really important part though, is to make the decision, as confidence and a plan are nothing without a decision. So, every day, as a business person, you have to choose to go out and do what is necessary. Listen in now, to LuAnn's really valuable presentation. LuAnn explains that Window Works was initially a franchise which started in the early 70's and went until the early 90's and that she and her two partners owned three of them. From year one and for the next ten years, two of their three franchises were number one and number two in highest gross sales, every year!  Today, LuAnn talks about the things that she has found when looking back, that have really contributed to their great success. Number one being Leadership, number two- Systems and number three-  Excellence. Listen in, to find out how to use these three ingredients to really attain the kind of success that you would love for your business.   Today, LuAnn talks about:  Her A Well Designed Business Podcast and what it's all about. What goes into creating and being a terrific leader- 1) Establishing your company's mission. 2) Establishing your company's core values and 3) Establishing accountability. What you will gain from having a really well thought out Company Mission. Why you need to make your Company's Core Values, which are non-negotiable, really clear to both yourself and to your employees. Why it's really so important to establish accountability in your business. The book, The E-Myth by Michael Gerber and why the three business roles that it refers to are so important to understand. Working on your business as well as working in your business. That System is the number one thing that contributes to the success of your business. The reason for the Red Pen System that they use at the Window Works office. Why systems really do make your life (and your business) so much easier. The real importance of impeccable customer service- and that often means that you have to let go of being right! That it's sometimes hard to keep to your business systems and decisions, but it's really worth it! Resources: Book: The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber – An amazing book for small business owners. Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's show is taken from LuAnn's presentation that she gave at the I.W.C.E. LuAnn starts her presentation by explaining the mix that goes into creating a really successful business. She points out that you are actually your own magic pill and that... Today's show is taken from LuAnn's presentation that she gave at the I.W.C.E. LuAnn starts her presentation by explaining the mix that goes into creating a really successful business. She points out that you are actually your own magic pill and that you really do have the ability when it comes down to making decisions. All that you need is to have confidence in yourself and to know that you have a good business and that you're a good business leader. Then, you have to identify the obstacles and make a plan, rather than running away from them. The really important part though, is to make the decision, as confidence and a plan are nothing without a decision. So, every day, as a business person, you have to choose to go out and do what is necessary. Listen in now, to LuAnn's really valuable presentation. LuAnn explains that Window Works was initially a franchise which started in the early 70's and went until the early 90's and that she and her two partners owned three of them. From year one and for the next ten years, two of their three franchises were number one and number two in highest gross sales, every year!  Today, LuAnn talks about the things that she has found when looking back, that have really contributed to their great success. Number one being Leadership, number two- Systems and number three-  Excellence. Listen in, to find out how to use these three ingredients to really attain the kind of success that you would love for your business.   Today, LuAnn talks about:  Her A Well Designed Business Podcast and what it's all about. What goes into creating and being a terrific leader- 1) Establishing your company's mission. 2) Establishing your company's core values and 3) Establishing accountability. What you will gain from having a really well thought out Company Mission. Why you need to make your Company's Core Values, which are non-negotiable, really clear to both yourself and to your employees. Why it's really so important to establish accountability in your business. The book, The E-Myth by Michael Gerber and why the three business roles that it refers to are so important to understand. Working on your business as well as working in your business. That System is the number one thing that contributes to the success of your business. The reason for the Red Pen System that they use at the Window Works office. Why systems really do make your life (and your business) so much easier. The real importance of impeccable customer service- and that often means that you have to let go of being right! That it's sometimes hard to keep to your business systems and decisions, but it's really worth it! Resources: Book: The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber – An amazing book for small business owners. Today's show is taken from LuAnn's presentation that she gave at the I.W.C.E.

LuAnn starts her presentation by explaining the mix that goes into creating a really successful business. She points out that you are actually your own magic pill and that you really do have the ability when it comes down to making decisions. All that you need is to have confidence in yourself and to know that you have a good business and that you're a good business leader. Then, you have to identify the obstacles and make a plan, rather than running away from them. The really important part though, is to make the decision, as confidence and a plan are nothing without a decision. So, every day, as a business person, you have to choose to go out and do what is necessary. Listen in now, to LuAnn's really valuable presentation.

LuAnn explains that Window Works was initially a franchise which started in the early 70's and went until the early 90's and that she and her two partners owned three of them. From year one and for the next ten years, two of their three franchises were number one and number two in highest gross sales, every year!  Today, LuAnn talks about the things that she has found when looking back, that have really contributed to their great success. Number one being Leadership, number two- Systems and number three-  Excellence. Listen in, to find out how to use these three ingredients to really attain the kind of success that you would love for your business.  

Today, LuAnn talks about: 

  • Her A Well Designed Business Podcast and what it's all about.
  • What goes into creating and being a terrific leader- 1) Establishing your company's mission. 2) Establishing your company's core values and 3) Establishing accountability.
  • What you will gain from having a really well thought out Company Mission.
  • Why you need to make your Company's Core Values, which are non-negotiable, really clear to both yourself and to your employees.
  • Why it's really so important to establish accountability in your business.
  • The book, The E-Myth by Michael Gerber and why the three business roles that it refers to are so important to understand.
  • Working on your business as well as working in your business.
  • That System is the number one thing that contributes to the success of your business.
  • The reason for the Red Pen System that they use at the Window Works office.
  • Why systems really do make your life (and your business) so much easier.
  • The real importance of impeccable customer service- and that often means that you have to let go of being right!
  • That it's sometimes hard to keep to your business systems and decisions, but it's really worth it!

Resources:

Book: The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber – An amazing book for small business owners.

]]> 3476 no 199: Manuella Moreira- Co-Lead Designer at Ethan Allen Flatiron NYC is a Millennial on the Move http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/199-manuella-moreira-co-lead-designer-at-ethan-allen-flatiron-nyc-is-a-millennial-on-the-move Today's guest is Manuella Moreira, one of LuAnn's long time early listeners to the show.  In May, there was a big event at the insanely gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City, where Manuella works with Barbara Viteri, the Designerlebrity.  You can go back and listen to the audio of that show (#185 ), or you can see the video of it on A Well Designed Business Youtube channel- something really well worth seeing! Listen in to find out more about Manuella and her fabulous career. Today, we're talking about Manuella's fascinating career, working for Ethan Allen. What LuAnn finds interesting is that it's really so completely different from what she would have expected an Ethan Allen Designer's career to look like and she points out that the opportunities that this brings for Manuella are truly remarkable. Listen in now, to find out more. Today, Manuella talks to LuAnn about: The research that she did and the decision-making process that she went through in 2013 when she had the opportunity to go to Ethan Allen. That the CEO personally approves each Designer employed by the company- and there are fifteen hundred of them! Why she chose to work for Ethan Allen rather than any other company. That at Ethan Allen, they really value the Interior Design portion of their company. The different levels of Designers at Ethan Allen and their ongoing training processes for their Designers. Their really different approach to working with their clients. That there really are opportunities for new Designers at Ethan Allen. How Manuella and Robert Nelson, the other Lead Designer, assist the other Designers in the company to execute their projects successfully- they're really not competitive. How they, as a company, manage the huge number of walk-in customers, who come into the showroom. That the Designers at Ethan Allen don't really work specific hours. That Manuella created her website for herself and feels as if she's running her own business but under the Ethan Allen umbrella. That each Designer within the company really has their own approach to marketing themselves. That Ethan Allen has really given Manuella the freedom to be creative. That they only do their sourcing from Ethan Allen's product. How they're evolving at Ethan Allen, as a brand. That Ethan Allen's in-house Designers design 70% of the products that they have on offer. Designing in such a way as to stay relevant. Their two different Trade Programs at Ethan Allen and the credit and also the commissions that you could earn from purchasing from them, as a Designer. That they're trying to work more and more with Designers, at their new Flat Iron location and the 25% discount they offer to the clients. The whole online scenario for Ethan Allen and the new features on their website. Go to ethanallen.com to find out. That one design project really seems to lead to the next- and it all starts with a conversation. How much Manuella really loves building relationships with her clients. The really awesome video on Manuella's website. (manuellaMoreira.com) All the recognition and awards that Manuella has earned. What's coming up on the horizon with Ethan Allen and Amazon and Manuella's role in that. Links: Manuella's email: manuella.Moreira@ethanallen.com Manuella's website: www.manuellaMoreira.com Manuella's Instagram: mgmdecor Mon, 03 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest is Manuella Moreira, one of LuAnn's long time early listeners to the show.  In May, there was a big event at the insanely gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City, where Manuella works with Barbara Viteri, the... Today's guest is Manuella Moreira, one of LuAnn's long time early listeners to the show.  In May, there was a big event at the insanely gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City, where Manuella works with Barbara Viteri, the Designerlebrity.  You can go back and listen to the audio of that show (#185 ), or you can see the video of it on A Well Designed Business Youtube channel- something really well worth seeing! Listen in to find out more about Manuella and her fabulous career. Today, we're talking about Manuella's fascinating career, working for Ethan Allen. What LuAnn finds interesting is that it's really so completely different from what she would have expected an Ethan Allen Designer's career to look like and she points out that the opportunities that this brings for Manuella are truly remarkable. Listen in now, to find out more. Today, Manuella talks to LuAnn about: The research that she did and the decision-making process that she went through in 2013 when she had the opportunity to go to Ethan Allen. That the CEO personally approves each Designer employed by the company- and there are fifteen hundred of them! Why she chose to work for Ethan Allen rather than any other company. That at Ethan Allen, they really value the Interior Design portion of their company. The different levels of Designers at Ethan Allen and their ongoing training processes for their Designers. Their really different approach to working with their clients. That there really are opportunities for new Designers at Ethan Allen. How Manuella and Robert Nelson, the other Lead Designer, assist the other Designers in the company to execute their projects successfully- they're really not competitive. How they, as a company, manage the huge number of walk-in customers, who come into the showroom. That the Designers at Ethan Allen don't really work specific hours. That Manuella created her website for herself and feels as if she's running her own business but under the Ethan Allen umbrella. That each Designer within the company really has their own approach to marketing themselves. That Ethan Allen has really given Manuella the freedom to be creative. That they only do their sourcing from Ethan Allen's product. How they're evolving at Ethan Allen, as a brand. That Ethan Allen's in-house Designers design 70% of the products that they have on offer. Designing in such a way as to stay relevant. Their two different Trade Programs at Ethan Allen and the credit and also the commissions that you could earn from purchasing from them, as a Designer. That they're trying to work more and more with Designers, at their new Flat Iron location and the 25% discount they offer to the clients. The whole online scenario for Ethan Allen and the new features on their website. Go to ethanallen.com to find out. That one design project really seems to lead to the next- and it all starts with a conversation. How much Manuella really loves building relationships with her clients. The really awesome video on Manuella's website. (manuellaMoreira.com) All the recognition and awards that Manuella has earned. What's coming up on the horizon with Ethan Allen and Amazon and Manuella's role in that. Links: Manuella's email: manuella.Moreira@ethanallen.com Manuella's website: www.manuellaMoreira.com Manuella's Instagram: mgmdecor Today's guest is Manuella Moreira, one of LuAnn's long time early listeners to the show.  In May, there was a big event at the insanely gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City, where Manuella works with Barbara Viteri, the Designerlebrity.  You can go back and listen to the audio of that show (#185 ), or you can see the video of it on A Well Designed Business Youtube channel- something really well worth seeing! Listen in to find out more about Manuella and her fabulous career.

Today, we're talking about Manuella's fascinating career, working for Ethan Allen. What LuAnn finds interesting is that it's really so completely different from what she would have expected an Ethan Allen Designer's career to look like and she points out that the opportunities that this brings for Manuella are truly remarkable. Listen in now, to find out more.

Today, Manuella talks to LuAnn about:

  • The research that she did and the decision-making process that she went through in 2013 when she had the opportunity to go to Ethan Allen.
  • That the CEO personally approves each Designer employed by the company- and there are fifteen hundred of them!
  • Why she chose to work for Ethan Allen rather than any other company.
  • That at Ethan Allen, they really value the Interior Design portion of their company.
  • The different levels of Designers at Ethan Allen and their ongoing training processes for their Designers.
  • Their really different approach to working with their clients.
  • That there really are opportunities for new Designers at Ethan Allen.
  • How Manuella and Robert Nelson, the other Lead Designer, assist the other Designers in the company to execute their projects successfully- they're really not competitive.
  • How they, as a company, manage the huge number of walk-in customers, who come into the showroom.
  • That the Designers at Ethan Allen don't really work specific hours.
  • That Manuella created her website for herself and feels as if she's running her own business but under the Ethan Allen umbrella.
  • That each Designer within the company really has their own approach to marketing themselves.
  • That Ethan Allen has really given Manuella the freedom to be creative.
  • That they only do their sourcing from Ethan Allen's product.
  • How they're evolving at Ethan Allen, as a brand.
  • That Ethan Allen's in-house Designers design 70% of the products that they have on offer.
  • Designing in such a way as to stay relevant.
  • Their two different Trade Programs at Ethan Allen and the credit and also the commissions that you could earn from purchasing from them, as a Designer.
  • That they're trying to work more and more with Designers, at their new Flat Iron location and the 25% discount they offer to the clients.
  • The whole online scenario for Ethan Allen and the new features on their website. Go to ethanallen.com to find out.
  • That one design project really seems to lead to the next- and it all starts with a conversation.
  • How much Manuella really loves building relationships with her clients.
  • The really awesome video on Manuella's website. (manuellaMoreira.com)
  • All the recognition and awards that Manuella has earned.

What's coming up on the horizon with Ethan Allen and Amazon and Manuella's role in that.

Links:

Manuella's email: manuella.Moreira@ethanallen.com

Manuella's website: www.manuellaMoreira.com

Manuella's Instagram: mgmdecor

]]> 4337 no 198: Power Talk Friday - How DesignerInc Increases the Efficiency of Your Interior Design Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/198-power-talk-friday-how-designerinc-increases-the-efficiency-of-your-interior-design-projects Today is the first of two shows sponsored by Designer Inc. If you haven't yet heard of Designer Inc, be sure to go back to episode #85, where Heather Gillette, it's founder, was first introduced onto the show. On that show, LuAnn talked to her and to Designer, Mark Cutler about the introduction of Designer Inc to the marketplace. Today, Heather is back, joined by her co-founder, Dorothee Fischer, to share all of the latest developments to this valuable Interior Design Business tool. Listen in to find out all about these developments. By using the To The Trade Only Designer Inc, you can cut your sourcing time by half. You can source by using filters- by product, by the showroom, by price point, by color, or even by dimension. It allows you to create client project folders, to organize your finds and you can share customized tear sheets with your clients. LuAnn points out that this software does not replace a Management System like MyDomo Studio- Designer Inc works in conjunction with your Client Management System, which is one of the really genius parts of it. With Designer Inc, which has all the trade sources on the site, you don't need to go back and forth to each individual site, when looking around for a particular item. You can search within the Designer Inc platform and compare, get quotes and purchase- all right there!  You can do this for multiple vendors for a single project, or a for single check-out experience. Once you've made your selection, you can simply go back and import your selection to MyDomo Studio and you're off and running! Sounds pretty fabulous, doesn't it! Listen in today, as Heather and Dorothee fill in all the gaps and tell you about the newest features to Designer Inc. Heather Gillette is a tech person, who has specialized in early stage start-ups for the past twenty years, with a focus on the operations end. She founded and headed several departments at Youtube, including copyright enforcement, content review and user support departments. This was both pre and post-Google acquisition. Her teams kept Youtube legal and clean and processed millions of videos and user communications daily, with very little manpower. Heather is also the founder of New Decor, so she really knows the challenges that you face as Interior Designers, as Designer Inc was created specifically to increase their firm's productivity. Dorothee Fischer is the co-founder and the Chief Marketing Officer of Designer Inc. She was also an early Youtube employee and she was their first post-acquisition marketing hire. She has twenty years of marketing behind her, nine of which she spent mastering social media. Her other areas of expertise include User Acquisition, Content Marketing, Partner Marketing, and Branding.   Today, Heather and Dorothee talk to LuAnn about: The really special kind of relationship that gets built in, almost automatically, when people listen to this podcast and the people that LuAnn interviews. Heather can tell from the get-go, when people sign up for her site, that there's a different kind of relationship, due to this. Heather explains the basics of what Designer Inc really is. Heather explains some of the recent developments to their purchasing service, and why they launched it early. How the quoting process works, within the Designer Inc site. That Designer Inc will come back to you to confirm, should you have made multiple choices. That you would pay no more order through Designer Inc, than you would if you ordered directly from the manufacturer. How they make their money, at Designer Inc, through kickbacks from the manufacturers. The loyalty program that they're developing, to offer you more savings. That the commission will still be paid to the manufacturing or sales reps, for your order. How the shopping experience actually happens, on Designer Inc. Their Shop By Showroom filter. Using the price filter on Designer Inc. The various other filters that you can use, like style and dimension. The flag feature that you can use, for your feedback, to make corrections on the site. The save searches that you can use, to narrow down and save your searches as you build your projects. That you can share items on the site, by inviting your client, so that they can also comment. The really huge number of well-known vendors, on Designer Inc. That they're a bit like the High Point Market, or Amazon, for Interior Designers. What happens when an order goes wrong...that they take the responsibility and handle all of that, on your behalf. That they handle all the shipping logistics, to the first destination. That they really want your feedback, at Designers Inc. How you, as Designers, can now invest and own equity at Designer Inc.     Link: To invest in Designer Inc, go to: www.wefunder.com and search for designerinc Fri, 30 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today is the first of two shows sponsored by Designer Inc. If you haven't yet heard of Designer Inc, be sure to go back to episode #85, where Heather Gillette, it's founder, was first introduced onto the show. On that show, LuAnn talked to her and to... Today is the first of two shows sponsored by Designer Inc. If you haven't yet heard of Designer Inc, be sure to go back to episode #85, where Heather Gillette, it's founder, was first introduced onto the show. On that show, LuAnn talked to her and to Designer, Mark Cutler about the introduction of Designer Inc to the marketplace. Today, Heather is back, joined by her co-founder, Dorothee Fischer, to share all of the latest developments to this valuable Interior Design Business tool. Listen in to find out all about these developments. By using the To The Trade Only Designer Inc, you can cut your sourcing time by half. You can source by using filters- by product, by the showroom, by price point, by color, or even by dimension. It allows you to create client project folders, to organize your finds and you can share customized tear sheets with your clients. LuAnn points out that this software does not replace a Management System like MyDomo Studio- Designer Inc works in conjunction with your Client Management System, which is one of the really genius parts of it. With Designer Inc, which has all the trade sources on the site, you don't need to go back and forth to each individual site, when looking around for a particular item. You can search within the Designer Inc platform and compare, get quotes and purchase- all right there!  You can do this for multiple vendors for a single project, or a for single check-out experience. Once you've made your selection, you can simply go back and import your selection to MyDomo Studio and you're off and running! Sounds pretty fabulous, doesn't it! Listen in today, as Heather and Dorothee fill in all the gaps and tell you about the newest features to Designer Inc. Heather Gillette is a tech person, who has specialized in early stage start-ups for the past twenty years, with a focus on the operations end. She founded and headed several departments at Youtube, including copyright enforcement, content review and user support departments. This was both pre and post-Google acquisition. Her teams kept Youtube legal and clean and processed millions of videos and user communications daily, with very little manpower. Heather is also the founder of New Decor, so she really knows the challenges that you face as Interior Designers, as Designer Inc was created specifically to increase their firm's productivity. Dorothee Fischer is the co-founder and the Chief Marketing Officer of Designer Inc. She was also an early Youtube employee and she was their first post-acquisition marketing hire. She has twenty years of marketing behind her, nine of which she spent mastering social media. Her other areas of expertise include User Acquisition, Content Marketing, Partner Marketing, and Branding.   Today, Heather and Dorothee talk to LuAnn about: The really special kind of relationship that gets built in, almost automatically, when people listen to this podcast and the people that LuAnn interviews. Heather can tell from the get-go, when people sign up for her site, that there's a different kind of relationship, due to this. Heather explains the basics of what Designer Inc really is. Heather explains some of the recent developments to their purchasing service, and why they launched it early. How the quoting process works, within the Designer Inc site. That Designer Inc will come back to you to confirm, should you have made multiple choices. That you would pay no more order through Designer Inc, than you would if you ordered directly from the manufacturer. How they make their money, at Designer Inc, through kickbacks from the manufacturers. The loyalty program that they're developing, to offer you more savings. That the commission will still be paid to the manufacturing or sales reps, for your order. How the shopping experience actually happens, on Designer Inc. Their Shop By Showroom filter. Using the price filter on Designer Inc. The various other filters that you can use, like style and dimension. The flag feature that you can use, for your feedback, to make corrections on the site. The save searches that you can use, to narrow down and save your searches as you build your projects. That you can share items on the site, by inviting your client, so that they can also comment. The really huge number of well-known vendors, on Designer Inc. That they're a bit like the High Point Market, or Amazon, for Interior Designers. What happens when an order goes wrong...that they take the responsibility and handle all of that, on your behalf. That they handle all the shipping logistics, to the first destination. That they really want your feedback, at Designers Inc. How you, as Designers, can now invest and own equity at Designer Inc.     Link: To invest in Designer Inc, go to: www.wefunder.com and search for designerinc Today is the first of two shows sponsored by Designer Inc. If you haven't yet heard of Designer Inc, be sure to go back to episode #85, where Heather Gillette, it's founder, was first introduced onto the show. On that show, LuAnn talked to her and to Designer, Mark Cutler about the introduction of Designer Inc to the marketplace. Today, Heather is back, joined by her co-founder, Dorothee Fischer, to share all of the latest developments to this valuable Interior Design Business tool. Listen in to find out all about these developments.

By using the To The Trade Only Designer Inc, you can cut your sourcing time by half. You can source by using filters- by product, by the showroom, by price point, by color, or even by dimension. It allows you to create client project folders, to organize your finds and you can share customized tear sheets with your clients. LuAnn points out that this software does not replace a Management System like MyDomo Studio- Designer Inc works in conjunction with your Client Management System, which is one of the really genius parts of it. With Designer Inc, which has all the trade sources on the site, you don't need to go back and forth to each individual site, when looking around for a particular item. You can search within the Designer Inc platform and compare, get quotes and purchase- all right there!  You can do this for multiple vendors for a single project, or a for single check-out experience. Once you've made your selection, you can simply go back and import your selection to MyDomo Studio and you're off and running! Sounds pretty fabulous, doesn't it! Listen in today, as Heather and Dorothee fill in all the gaps and tell you about the newest features to Designer Inc.

Heather Gillette is a tech person, who has specialized in early stage start-ups for the past twenty years, with a focus on the operations end. She founded and headed several departments at Youtube, including copyright enforcement, content review and user support departments. This was both pre and post-Google acquisition. Her teams kept Youtube legal and clean and processed millions of videos and user communications daily, with very little manpower. Heather is also the founder of New Decor, so she really knows the challenges that you face as Interior Designers, as Designer Inc was created specifically to increase their firm's productivity.

Dorothee Fischer is the co-founder and the Chief Marketing Officer of Designer Inc. She was also an early Youtube employee and she was their first post-acquisition marketing hire. She has twenty years of marketing behind her, nine of which she spent mastering social media. Her other areas of expertise include User Acquisition, Content Marketing, Partner Marketing, and Branding.

 

Today, Heather and Dorothee talk to LuAnn about:

  • The really special kind of relationship that gets built in, almost automatically, when people listen to this podcast and the people that LuAnn interviews. Heather can tell from the get-go, when people sign up for her site, that there's a different kind of relationship, due to this.
  • Heather explains the basics of what Designer Inc really is.
  • Heather explains some of the recent developments to their purchasing service, and why they launched it early.
  • How the quoting process works, within the Designer Inc site.
  • That Designer Inc will come back to you to confirm, should you have made multiple choices.
  • That you would pay no more order through Designer Inc, than you would if you ordered directly from the manufacturer.
  • How they make their money, at Designer Inc, through kickbacks from the manufacturers.
  • The loyalty program that they're developing, to offer you more savings.
  • That the commission will still be paid to the manufacturing or sales reps, for your order.
  • How the shopping experience actually happens, on Designer Inc.
  • Their Shop By Showroom filter.
  • Using the price filter on Designer Inc.
  • The various other filters that you can use, like style and dimension.
  • The flag feature that you can use, for your feedback, to make corrections on the site.
  • The save searches that you can use, to narrow down and save your searches as you build your projects.
  • That you can share items on the site, by inviting your client, so that they can also comment.
  • The really huge number of well-known vendors, on Designer Inc.
  • That they're a bit like the High Point Market, or Amazon, for Interior Designers.
  • What happens when an order goes wrong...that they take the responsibility and handle all of that, on your behalf.
  • That they handle all the shipping logistics, to the first destination.
  • That they really want your feedback, at Designers Inc.
  • How you, as Designers, can now invest and own equity at Designer Inc.

 

 

Link:

To invest in Designer Inc, go to: www.wefunder.com and search for designerinc

]]> 3413 no 197: Joe Cariati Collection for Curated Kravet & Business Insights for Creatives http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/197-joe-cariati-collection-for-curated-kravet-business-insights-for-creatives Today's guest is Joe Cariati, an award winning glass blower, artist, craftsman, and educator, who has had more than twenty years experience as a designer, maker, and mentor. Listen in to find out more about Joe and his really arty craft. Joe opened his own studio in Los Angeles, California in 2003, where he still continues refining his craft and pushing his boundaries, both as a glass blower and as a designer. He launched his own business, Joe Cariati Design, in 2015. Listen in today, as Joe talks to LuAnn about his career, the things that he's learned about being a Creative and running a profitable business, and also about the new line of glassware, lamps, pendants, and accessories that he now has available for you, through CuratedKravet.com.   Today, Joe talks to LuAnn about: His background, starting in college and the many years leading up to where he is today. The thousands and thousands of things that are made in his studio every year, today, with a very small team of three. His simplistic, yet complex way of making things, to get a particular quality that his glass has. The risk he took in forming his own company, which finally solidified in 2007. His desire to create a legacy company, where it could be passed on to his son, Vincent Cariati, should he want to become a glass blower. The really close, family vibe within his company. Joe's particular requirements for anyone wanting to come and work with him. What happened for Joe in 2007, when he applied and was accepted to the New York Now Show. How it was for him when he met Kravet for the first time in 2008. The validation he got as a designer/maker, from being recognized by Kravet. What he did to prepare for his meeting with Kravet back then. What's available and the things that are happening with his new line at CuratorKravet.com- with exclusive colors and products! How he arrived at the particular color groupings that were settled on with Kravet, for his exclusive collection. All about the colors he uses and how that challenges him, as a Creative. The aspects of his business that he's most active in. How he figured out all the processes in his business, before deciding which aspects would be best done by him, personally. How to set yourself up in your business, and which people you should hire, in order to move in the direction that you really desire to go. Thriving off of a repeatable process and getting predictable results. The design scene in America right now. Links: CuratedKravet.com Wed, 28 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest is Joe Cariati, an award winning glass blower, artist, craftsman, and educator, who has had more than twenty years experience as a designer, maker, and mentor. Listen in to find out more about Joe and his really arty craft. Joe opened... Today's guest is Joe Cariati, an award winning glass blower, artist, craftsman, and educator, who has had more than twenty years experience as a designer, maker, and mentor. Listen in to find out more about Joe and his really arty craft. Joe opened his own studio in Los Angeles, California in 2003, where he still continues refining his craft and pushing his boundaries, both as a glass blower and as a designer. He launched his own business, Joe Cariati Design, in 2015. Listen in today, as Joe talks to LuAnn about his career, the things that he's learned about being a Creative and running a profitable business, and also about the new line of glassware, lamps, pendants, and accessories that he now has available for you, through CuratedKravet.com.   Today, Joe talks to LuAnn about: His background, starting in college and the many years leading up to where he is today. The thousands and thousands of things that are made in his studio every year, today, with a very small team of three. His simplistic, yet complex way of making things, to get a particular quality that his glass has. The risk he took in forming his own company, which finally solidified in 2007. His desire to create a legacy company, where it could be passed on to his son, Vincent Cariati, should he want to become a glass blower. The really close, family vibe within his company. Joe's particular requirements for anyone wanting to come and work with him. What happened for Joe in 2007, when he applied and was accepted to the New York Now Show. How it was for him when he met Kravet for the first time in 2008. The validation he got as a designer/maker, from being recognized by Kravet. What he did to prepare for his meeting with Kravet back then. What's available and the things that are happening with his new line at CuratorKravet.com- with exclusive colors and products! How he arrived at the particular color groupings that were settled on with Kravet, for his exclusive collection. All about the colors he uses and how that challenges him, as a Creative. The aspects of his business that he's most active in. How he figured out all the processes in his business, before deciding which aspects would be best done by him, personally. How to set yourself up in your business, and which people you should hire, in order to move in the direction that you really desire to go. Thriving off of a repeatable process and getting predictable results. The design scene in America right now. Links: CuratedKravet.com Today's guest is Joe Cariati, an award winning glass blower, artist, craftsman, and educator, who has had more than twenty years experience as a designer, maker, and mentor. Listen in to find out more about Joe and his really arty craft.

Joe opened his own studio in Los Angeles, California in 2003, where he still continues refining his craft and pushing his boundaries, both as a glass blower and as a designer. He launched his own business, Joe Cariati Design, in 2015. Listen in today, as Joe talks to LuAnn about his career, the things that he's learned about being a Creative and running a profitable business, and also about the new line of glassware, lamps, pendants, and accessories that he now has available for you, through CuratedKravet.com.

 

Today, Joe talks to LuAnn about:

  • His background, starting in college and the many years leading up to where he is today.
  • The thousands and thousands of things that are made in his studio every year, today, with a very small team of three.
  • His simplistic, yet complex way of making things, to get a particular quality that his glass has.
  • The risk he took in forming his own company, which finally solidified in 2007.
  • His desire to create a legacy company, where it could be passed on to his son, Vincent Cariati, should he want to become a glass blower.
  • The really close, family vibe within his company.
  • Joe's particular requirements for anyone wanting to come and work with him.
  • What happened for Joe in 2007, when he applied and was accepted to the New York Now Show.
  • How it was for him when he met Kravet for the first time in 2008.
  • The validation he got as a designer/maker, from being recognized by Kravet.
  • What he did to prepare for his meeting with Kravet back then.
  • What's available and the things that are happening with his new line at CuratorKravet.com- with exclusive colors and products!
  • How he arrived at the particular color groupings that were settled on with Kravet, for his exclusive collection.
  • All about the colors he uses and how that challenges him, as a Creative.
  • The aspects of his business that he's most active in.
  • How he figured out all the processes in his business, before deciding which aspects would be best done by him, personally.
  • How to set yourself up in your business, and which people you should hire, in order to move in the direction that you really desire to go.
  • Thriving off of a repeatable process and getting predictable results.
  • The design scene in America right now.

Links:

CuratedKravet.com

]]> 3940 no 196: LuAnn Discusses Setting Clear Goals on Blissful Bites Podcast http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/196-luann-discusses-setting-clear-goals-on-blissful-bites-podcast Today's show is a very different one. LuAnn is airing someone else's podcast on her feed and she really hopes that you will like it! She was a guest on Nicole Culver's podcast, called A Few Blissful Bites, a few weeks ago. Nicole is a podcaster and business person who teaches food bloggers how to turn their blogs into profitable businesses. LuAnn listens to Nicole's podcast because she truly believes that business principals are business principals and anybody who does a good job of expressing and teaching them, is worth listening to. So she asked Nicole to be a guest on her show, but the funny thing is that Nicole said that LuAnn should be on her show too! Listen in as LuAnn and Nicole talk about building a business that you can be proud of.   The thing about Nicole is that she's very actionable. She runs a community, she has a Blogger To Business Support Group, where she offers training and resources, she does workshops and she does goal check-ins and live Q & A- and she brings all of this to her food bloggers. LuAnn knows that if you're an Interior Designer who's blogging, and you would like to turn that blog into something that earns money for you some day, that Nicole's resources and her community will be valuable to you. LuAnn points out that she has no financial investment in this at all- she just knows that good business strategies for a Food Blog will be good business strategies for a Design Blog. Listen in now, as LuAnn and Nicole talk about the things that really drive business and profit.   Today, LuAnn talks to Nicole about: Why, if you were to take the word 'design' out of her podcast, it could apply to the food (or any other) industry also. How LuAnn actually got into podcasting. That what LuAnn and her partners have as their core belief is that you have to stick to your company mission. That you have to filter your new ideas if you want to be really successful with your main bread and butter business. That there is a hurdle to doing podcasts consistently and well- it has to support your main business. LuAnn tells a story to highlight the real importance of her partners and herself having understood who their customer was, in the beginning, with their brick and mortar business. Figuring out your niche and positioning yourself for your ideal market. How LuAnn deals with competition without letting it affect her business. That you need to know your competition, but not worry about them. LuAnn's intention for her podcast and how it's really helped her business. That LuAnn really understood her priorities and her passion, when she started doing her podcast. What LuAnn did to attract her ideal listener for her podcast- working with intention. Nicole's website:  http://nicoleculverblog.com Mon, 26 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's show is a very different one. LuAnn is airing someone else's podcast on her feed and she really hopes that you will like it! She was a guest on Nicole Culver's podcast, called A Few Blissful Bites, a few weeks ago. Nicole is a podcaster and... Today's show is a very different one. LuAnn is airing someone else's podcast on her feed and she really hopes that you will like it! She was a guest on Nicole Culver's podcast, called A Few Blissful Bites, a few weeks ago. Nicole is a podcaster and business person who teaches food bloggers how to turn their blogs into profitable businesses. LuAnn listens to Nicole's podcast because she truly believes that business principals are business principals and anybody who does a good job of expressing and teaching them, is worth listening to. So she asked Nicole to be a guest on her show, but the funny thing is that Nicole said that LuAnn should be on her show too! Listen in as LuAnn and Nicole talk about building a business that you can be proud of.   The thing about Nicole is that she's very actionable. She runs a community, she has a Blogger To Business Support Group, where she offers training and resources, she does workshops and she does goal check-ins and live Q & A- and she brings all of this to her food bloggers. LuAnn knows that if you're an Interior Designer who's blogging, and you would like to turn that blog into something that earns money for you some day, that Nicole's resources and her community will be valuable to you. LuAnn points out that she has no financial investment in this at all- she just knows that good business strategies for a Food Blog will be good business strategies for a Design Blog. Listen in now, as LuAnn and Nicole talk about the things that really drive business and profit.   Today, LuAnn talks to Nicole about: Why, if you were to take the word 'design' out of her podcast, it could apply to the food (or any other) industry also. How LuAnn actually got into podcasting. That what LuAnn and her partners have as their core belief is that you have to stick to your company mission. That you have to filter your new ideas if you want to be really successful with your main bread and butter business. That there is a hurdle to doing podcasts consistently and well- it has to support your main business. LuAnn tells a story to highlight the real importance of her partners and herself having understood who their customer was, in the beginning, with their brick and mortar business. Figuring out your niche and positioning yourself for your ideal market. How LuAnn deals with competition without letting it affect her business. That you need to know your competition, but not worry about them. LuAnn's intention for her podcast and how it's really helped her business. That LuAnn really understood her priorities and her passion, when she started doing her podcast. What LuAnn did to attract her ideal listener for her podcast- working with intention. Nicole's website:  http://nicoleculverblog.com Today's show is a very different one. LuAnn is airing someone else's podcast on her feed and she really hopes that you will like it! She was a guest on Nicole Culver's podcast, called A Few Blissful Bites, a few weeks ago. Nicole is a podcaster and business person who teaches food bloggers how to turn their blogs into profitable businesses. LuAnn listens to Nicole's podcast because she truly believes that business principals are business principals and anybody who does a good job of expressing and teaching them, is worth listening to. So she asked Nicole to be a guest on her show, but the funny thing is that Nicole said that LuAnn should be on her show too! Listen in as LuAnn and Nicole talk about building a business that you can be proud of.

 

The thing about Nicole is that she's very actionable. She runs a community, she has a Blogger To Business Support Group, where she offers training and resources, she does workshops and she does goal check-ins and live Q & A- and she brings all of this to her food bloggers. LuAnn knows that if you're an Interior Designer who's blogging, and you would like to turn that blog into something that earns money for you some day, that Nicole's resources and her community will be valuable to you. LuAnn points out that she has no financial investment in this at all- she just knows that good business strategies for a Food Blog will be good business strategies for a Design Blog. Listen in now, as LuAnn and Nicole talk about the things that really drive business and profit.

 

Today, LuAnn talks to Nicole about:

  • Why, if you were to take the word 'design' out of her podcast, it could apply to the food (or any other) industry also.
  • How LuAnn actually got into podcasting.
  • That what LuAnn and her partners have as their core belief is that you have to stick to your company mission.
  • That you have to filter your new ideas if you want to be really successful with your main bread and butter business.
  • That there is a hurdle to doing podcasts consistently and well- it has to support your main business.
  • LuAnn tells a story to highlight the real importance of her partners and herself having understood who their customer was, in the beginning, with their brick and mortar business.
  • Figuring out your niche and positioning yourself for your ideal market.
  • How LuAnn deals with competition without letting it affect her business.
  • That you need to know your competition, but not worry about them.
  • LuAnn's intention for her podcast and how it's really helped her business.
  • That LuAnn really understood her priorities and her passion, when she started doing her podcast.
  • What LuAnn did to attract her ideal listener for her podcast- working with intention.
Nicole's website:  http://nicoleculverblog.com]]> 2215 no 195: Power Talk Friday - Rob Greenlee: Should You Start an Interior Design Podcast? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/195-power-talk-friday-rob-greenlee-should-you-start-an-interior-design-podcast Have you been considering putting your toe into the podcast pool lately? If so, you will really learn a lot from today's Power Talk Friday, as LuAnn interviews Rob Greenlee, a pioneer in the Podcast Industry. LuAnn often talks about your 'only' on the show. Well, Rob's only is that he is the very first person to take a radio program and turn it into a podcast and that's pretty exciting!  If you're wondering why she's talking to a leader in the Podcast Industry, it's because Interior Design Podcasts are busy popping up all over. Although LuAnn and Nick have been covering the business side of the industry on their podcast, the consumer-facing side of podcasting has more and more Interior Designers joining their ranks. LuAnn has had a number of previous guests who'd had their own podcast by the time that she had interviewed them and this is apart from the dozen or so other shows that have launched in the last year or two, that LuAnn has not yet had a chance to engage with. These are all consumer facing and talking about the things that LuAnn doesn't talk about- the pretty stuff. Listen in as Rob indulges you a bit and LuAnn picks his brain about where this field is heading and also to help you to decipher some of the in's and out's of it.   Rob is the head of Podcast Content at Spreaker.com, a really huge name in podcasting. He is the former Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Podcast Network, Podcast 1.com. He is also the former Content Manager of Podcast For Windows Phone, Zoon and Xbox and he currently co-hosts the new media show at Geek News Central Live, every morning at 9 am (Pacific time). Rob is also the former founder and lead host of Web Talk World Radio Show and Zoon Insider Podcast. The really cool thing is that Web Talk Radio was an eight year running national, syndicated terrestrial broadcast radio show and it's recognized as the very first broadcast radio program in the world, to begin podcasting! Listen in now to find out more!   Today, Rob talks to LuAnn about:   Why it's really not too late to start a podcast right now. What's coming in the future, technologically, with podcasts? How long it really takes to build a new media. What current research about podcasts is showing. The really powerful medium of podcasting. What makes a successful podcast host. Podcasting as a really viable form of advertising. That you have to offer value, before you receive value, with this medium. That authenticity and trust are fundamental qualities for success in this medium. That your particular slant on design can really come across on the podcast. Using video to supplement your podcast. The best approach to podcasting as a marketing arm of a business. What it takes to inspire the listener to have a visual experience through audio. Ways to use listener's questions to create a podcast. Why your Interior Design Podcast can really be unique. That consistent production of shows really builds an audience. Building a loyal base of listeners. Choosing the best hook for your show. Why you should really just jump in and do it! That it's really okay to learn and evolve as you grow, with podcasting. That it's really hard to predict where you will go with this particular 'box of opportunity'. Doing your research, if you intend doing a podcast. How you really can become an expert in your field through podcasting. Fri, 23 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Have you been considering putting your toe into the podcast pool lately? If so, you will really learn a lot from today's Power Talk Friday, as LuAnn interviews Rob Greenlee, a pioneer in the Podcast Industry. LuAnn often talks about your 'only' on the... Have you been considering putting your toe into the podcast pool lately? If so, you will really learn a lot from today's Power Talk Friday, as LuAnn interviews Rob Greenlee, a pioneer in the Podcast Industry. LuAnn often talks about your 'only' on the show. Well, Rob's only is that he is the very first person to take a radio program and turn it into a podcast and that's pretty exciting!  If you're wondering why she's talking to a leader in the Podcast Industry, it's because Interior Design Podcasts are busy popping up all over. Although LuAnn and Nick have been covering the business side of the industry on their podcast, the consumer-facing side of podcasting has more and more Interior Designers joining their ranks. LuAnn has had a number of previous guests who'd had their own podcast by the time that she had interviewed them and this is apart from the dozen or so other shows that have launched in the last year or two, that LuAnn has not yet had a chance to engage with. These are all consumer facing and talking about the things that LuAnn doesn't talk about- the pretty stuff. Listen in as Rob indulges you a bit and LuAnn picks his brain about where this field is heading and also to help you to decipher some of the in's and out's of it.   Rob is the head of Podcast Content at Spreaker.com, a really huge name in podcasting. He is the former Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Podcast Network, Podcast 1.com. He is also the former Content Manager of Podcast For Windows Phone, Zoon and Xbox and he currently co-hosts the new media show at Geek News Central Live, every morning at 9 am (Pacific time). Rob is also the former founder and lead host of Web Talk World Radio Show and Zoon Insider Podcast. The really cool thing is that Web Talk Radio was an eight year running national, syndicated terrestrial broadcast radio show and it's recognized as the very first broadcast radio program in the world, to begin podcasting! Listen in now to find out more!   Today, Rob talks to LuAnn about:   Why it's really not too late to start a podcast right now. What's coming in the future, technologically, with podcasts? How long it really takes to build a new media. What current research about podcasts is showing. The really powerful medium of podcasting. What makes a successful podcast host. Podcasting as a really viable form of advertising. That you have to offer value, before you receive value, with this medium. That authenticity and trust are fundamental qualities for success in this medium. That your particular slant on design can really come across on the podcast. Using video to supplement your podcast. The best approach to podcasting as a marketing arm of a business. What it takes to inspire the listener to have a visual experience through audio. Ways to use listener's questions to create a podcast. Why your Interior Design Podcast can really be unique. That consistent production of shows really builds an audience. Building a loyal base of listeners. Choosing the best hook for your show. Why you should really just jump in and do it! That it's really okay to learn and evolve as you grow, with podcasting. That it's really hard to predict where you will go with this particular 'box of opportunity'. Doing your research, if you intend doing a podcast. How you really can become an expert in your field through podcasting. Have you been considering putting your toe into the podcast pool lately? If so, you will really learn a lot from today's Power Talk Friday, as LuAnn interviews Rob Greenlee, a pioneer in the Podcast Industry. LuAnn often talks about your 'only' on the show. Well, Rob's only is that he is the very first person to take a radio program and turn it into a podcast and that's pretty exciting!  If you're wondering why she's talking to a leader in the Podcast Industry, it's because Interior Design Podcasts are busy popping up all over. Although LuAnn and Nick have been covering the business side of the industry on their podcast, the consumer-facing side of podcasting has more and more Interior Designers joining their ranks. LuAnn has had a number of previous guests who'd had their own podcast by the time that she had interviewed them and this is apart from the dozen or so other shows that have launched in the last year or two, that LuAnn has not yet had a chance to engage with. These are all consumer facing and talking about the things that LuAnn doesn't talk about- the pretty stuff. Listen in as Rob indulges you a bit and LuAnn picks his brain about where this field is heading and also to help you to decipher some of the in's and out's of it.

 

Rob is the head of Podcast Content at Spreaker.com, a really huge name in podcasting. He is the former Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Podcast Network, Podcast 1.com. He is also the former Content Manager of Podcast For Windows Phone, Zoon and Xbox and he currently co-hosts the new media show at Geek News Central Live, every morning at 9 am (Pacific time). Rob is also the former founder and lead host of Web Talk World Radio Show and Zoon Insider Podcast. The really cool thing is that Web Talk Radio was an eight year running national, syndicated terrestrial broadcast radio show and it's recognized as the very first broadcast radio program in the world, to begin podcasting! Listen in now to find out more!

 

Today, Rob talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • Why it's really not too late to start a podcast right now.
  • What's coming in the future, technologically, with podcasts?
  • How long it really takes to build a new media.
  • What current research about podcasts is showing.
  • The really powerful medium of podcasting.
  • What makes a successful podcast host.
  • Podcasting as a really viable form of advertising.
  • That you have to offer value, before you receive value, with this medium.
  • That authenticity and trust are fundamental qualities for success in this medium.
  • That your particular slant on design can really come across on the podcast.
  • Using video to supplement your podcast.
  • The best approach to podcasting as a marketing arm of a business.
  • What it takes to inspire the listener to have a visual experience through audio.
  • Ways to use listener's questions to create a podcast.
  • Why your Interior Design Podcast can really be unique.
  • That consistent production of shows really builds an audience.
  • Building a loyal base of listeners.
  • Choosing the best hook for your show.
  • Why you should really just jump in and do it!
  • That it's really okay to learn and evolve as you grow, with podcasting.
  • That it's really hard to predict where you will go with this particular 'box of opportunity'.
  • Doing your research, if you intend doing a podcast.
  • How you really can become an expert in your field through podcasting.
]]> 3549 no 194: Alder and Tweed Home Outfitters- How to Super Niche Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/194-alder-and-tweed-home-outfitters-how-to-super-niche-your-interior-design-firm Today's guest is Reed Humphrey, the President of Alder and Tweed Home Outfitters in Park City, Utah, a family owned business that Reed runs with his two sisters. Reed was first exposed to the world of interiors at the age of eight, when he would travel all over the world with his parents, who were the owners of a successful lighting business, to visit suppliers and factories. This really allowed for Reed to develop a discriminating eye and knowledge for quality. This expertise has carried on as Alder and Tweed continue to source some of the best leathers, fabrics, furnishings, and suppliers in the world. Listen in to find out about how Reed and his sisters have used their really clear vision to re-invent and niche their business,  to service strictly, the vacation homeowners buying in Park City, Utah. Reed, an open, humble and skilled leader, has operated the business side of Alder and Tweed for the past thirteen years, overseeing the logistics, strategy, marketing, and human resources. He also supports the wholesale side of Alder and Tweed Furniture. Since 2004, the firm has focused on a client-centric approach to projects, and it has grown to a staff of eighteen employees, with offices in both Park City, Utah and in Big Sky, Montana. Reed, who lives in Sandy, Utah with his wife Jenna and his daughter, London, was raised in El Dorado Hills, California and moved to Utah in 2002, after being offered a scholarship to play basketball for Utah Valley University, where he studied business. Reed speaks Japanese fluently and enjoys basketball, golf and traveling. Listen in now, to find out more about Reed and his really successfully niched business.   Today, Reed talks to LuAnn about: How the family business, which started out as a retail showroom, has evolved, over time, eventually targeting vacation home buyers in Park City. How they decided to close their original business in Salt Lake City within one week, to move to Park City. That the family all knew that they had to make a move, at the time- and fast. The dynamics involved in running a family business. What Reed and his sisters did to brand themselves in a different light, so as not be just another Design Business How Reed and his sisters became are aware of the pain points of their clients, and what they do to help them to overcome these problems and make everything really easy for the client. How they manage to allocate the money as an operating expense, to fly out to see the clients. How they went into their new niche market and became known within it. What they did to reach out to Real Estate Agents in Park City, within their first six months. How they really make it their business to cover everything, seamlessly. How their referral stream has really picked up. How their Junior and Senior Designers work as a team, together with Reed's sister, Heather. How the processes of their projects run. How their Client Portal Their fantastic team, which is capable of running different projects, at different stages, all at the same time. The different packages that they have available, for all the various, different client needs. Why Reed and his sisters haven't really made it known that they are the owners of the firm. The biggest thing that Reed would caution people wanting to start a similar business with. How they manage to operate their business without a showroom. That they focus on quality and customer experience, rather than on the numbers. What Reed and his team really love about what they do! Links: http://www.alderandtweed.com http://www.alderandtweedfurniture.com Upcoming events include today’s FB Live Flash Mob at 2:00 pm EDT from the Kravet Showroom. Then, Design Uncorked – How to grow from Design Firm to Design Empire. A live interview with Kelli Ellis from the Kravet Showroom at Las Vegas Market on Tuesday, August 2 at 2:00 pm.  Last week did you catch our 1st guest blog post by Kelsey Grose of Farmer’s Daughter Interiors? “How I Landed A Full Kitchen Project With No Portfolio” It’s a great read. Reminder: to be on our email list, text to this number- 444999 and in the text filed type designbiz it will bring you to 1 screen to enter your email and you’re all set. Wed, 21 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guest is Reed Humphrey, the President of Alder and Tweed Home Outfitters in Park City, Utah, a family owned business that Reed runs with his two sisters. Reed was first exposed to the world of interiors at the age of eight, when he would... Today's guest is Reed Humphrey, the President of Alder and Tweed Home Outfitters in Park City, Utah, a family owned business that Reed runs with his two sisters. Reed was first exposed to the world of interiors at the age of eight, when he would travel all over the world with his parents, who were the owners of a successful lighting business, to visit suppliers and factories. This really allowed for Reed to develop a discriminating eye and knowledge for quality. This expertise has carried on as Alder and Tweed continue to source some of the best leathers, fabrics, furnishings, and suppliers in the world. Listen in to find out about how Reed and his sisters have used their really clear vision to re-invent and niche their business,  to service strictly, the vacation homeowners buying in Park City, Utah. Reed, an open, humble and skilled leader, has operated the business side of Alder and Tweed for the past thirteen years, overseeing the logistics, strategy, marketing, and human resources. He also supports the wholesale side of Alder and Tweed Furniture. Since 2004, the firm has focused on a client-centric approach to projects, and it has grown to a staff of eighteen employees, with offices in both Park City, Utah and in Big Sky, Montana. Reed, who lives in Sandy, Utah with his wife Jenna and his daughter, London, was raised in El Dorado Hills, California and moved to Utah in 2002, after being offered a scholarship to play basketball for Utah Valley University, where he studied business. Reed speaks Japanese fluently and enjoys basketball, golf and traveling. Listen in now, to find out more about Reed and his really successfully niched business.   Today, Reed talks to LuAnn about: How the family business, which started out as a retail showroom, has evolved, over time, eventually targeting vacation home buyers in Park City. How they decided to close their original business in Salt Lake City within one week, to move to Park City. That the family all knew that they had to make a move, at the time- and fast. The dynamics involved in running a family business. What Reed and his sisters did to brand themselves in a different light, so as not be just another Design Business How Reed and his sisters became are aware of the pain points of their clients, and what they do to help them to overcome these problems and make everything really easy for the client. How they manage to allocate the money as an operating expense, to fly out to see the clients. How they went into their new niche market and became known within it. What they did to reach out to Real Estate Agents in Park City, within their first six months. How they really make it their business to cover everything, seamlessly. How their referral stream has really picked up. How their Junior and Senior Designers work as a team, together with Reed's sister, Heather. How the processes of their projects run. How their Client Portal Their fantastic team, which is capable of running different projects, at different stages, all at the same time. The different packages that they have available, for all the various, different client needs. Why Reed and his sisters haven't really made it known that they are the owners of the firm. The biggest thing that Reed would caution people wanting to start a similar business with. How they manage to operate their business without a showroom. That they focus on quality and customer experience, rather than on the numbers. What Reed and his team really love about what they do! Links: http://www.alderandtweed.com http://www.alderandtweedfurniture.com Upcoming events include today’s FB Live Flash Mob at 2:00 pm EDT from the Kravet Showroom. Then, Design Uncorked – How to grow from Design Firm to Design Empire. A live interview with Kelli Ellis from the Kravet Showroom at Las Vegas Market on Tuesday, August 2 at 2:00 pm.  Last week did you catch our 1st guest blog post by Kelsey Grose of Farmer’s Daughter Interiors? “How I Landed A Full Kitchen Project With No Portfolio” It’s a great read. Reminder: to be on our email list, text to this number- 444999 and in the text filed type designbiz it will bring you to 1 screen to enter your email and you’re all set. Today's guest is Reed Humphrey, the President of Alder and Tweed Home Outfitters in Park City, Utah, a family owned business that Reed runs with his two sisters. Reed was first exposed to the world of interiors at the age of eight, when he would travel all over the world with his parents, who were the owners of a successful lighting business, to visit suppliers and factories. This really allowed for Reed to develop a discriminating eye and knowledge for quality. This expertise has carried on as Alder and Tweed continue to source some of the best leathers, fabrics, furnishings, and suppliers in the world. Listen in to find out about how Reed and his sisters have used their really clear vision to re-invent and niche their business,  to service strictly, the vacation homeowners buying in Park City, Utah.

Reed, an open, humble and skilled leader, has operated the business side of Alder and Tweed for the past thirteen years, overseeing the logistics, strategy, marketing, and human resources. He also supports the wholesale side of Alder and Tweed Furniture. Since 2004, the firm has focused on a client-centric approach to projects, and it has grown to a staff of eighteen employees, with offices in both Park City, Utah and in Big Sky, Montana.

Reed, who lives in Sandy, Utah with his wife Jenna and his daughter, London, was raised in El Dorado Hills, California and moved to Utah in 2002, after being offered a scholarship to play basketball for Utah Valley University, where he studied business. Reed speaks Japanese fluently and enjoys basketball, golf and traveling. Listen in now, to find out more about Reed and his really successfully niched business.

 

Today, Reed talks to LuAnn about:

  • How the family business, which started out as a retail showroom, has evolved, over time, eventually targeting vacation home buyers in Park City.
  • How they decided to close their original business in Salt Lake City within one week, to move to Park City.
  • That the family all knew that they had to make a move, at the time- and fast.
  • The dynamics involved in running a family business.
  • What Reed and his sisters did to brand themselves in a different light, so as not be just another Design Business
  • How Reed and his sisters became are aware of the pain points of their clients, and what they do to help them to overcome these problems and make everything really easy for the client.
  • How they manage to allocate the money as an operating expense, to fly out to see the clients.
  • How they went into their new niche market and became known within it.
  • What they did to reach out to Real Estate Agents in Park City, within their first six months.
  • How they really make it their business to cover everything, seamlessly.
  • How their referral stream has really picked up.
  • How their Junior and Senior Designers work as a team, together with Reed's sister, Heather.
  • How the processes of their projects run.
  • How their Client Portal
  • Their fantastic team, which is capable of running different projects, at different stages, all at the same time.
  • The different packages that they have available, for all the various, different client needs.
  • Why Reed and his sisters haven't really made it known that they are the owners of the firm.
  • The biggest thing that Reed would caution people wanting to start a similar business with.
  • How they manage to operate their business without a showroom.
  • That they focus on quality and customer experience, rather than on the numbers.
  • What Reed and his team really love about what they do!

Links:

http://www.alderandtweed.com http://www.alderandtweedfurniture.com

Upcoming events include today’s FB Live Flash Mob at 2:00 pm EDT from the Kravet Showroom.

Then, Design Uncorked – How to grow from Design Firm to Design Empire. A live interview with Kelli Ellis from the Kravet Showroom at Las Vegas Market on Tuesday, August 2 at 2:00 pm. 

Last week did you catch our 1st guest blog post by Kelsey Grose of Farmer’s Daughter Interiors? “How I Landed A Full Kitchen Project With No Portfolio”

It’s a great read.

Reminder: to be on our email list, text to this number- 444999 and in the text filed type designbiz it will bring you to 1 screen to enter your email and you’re all set.

]]> 4529 no 193: Ronald Alvarez and Monica Santayana, Moniomi Design: Project Management + Design = Success in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/193-ronald-alvarez-and-monica-santayana-moniomi-design-project-management-design-success-in-interior-design Today's guests are Ronald Alvarez and Monica Santayana, the principals of Moniomi Design in Miami, Florida. This is really going to be a great show for the takeaways, so if you're in business with a partner, whether you're married to them or not, you will really get some great value today! Listen in as this very special husband and wife team talk about how they work and relate together and how this contributes to the great success of their company.   Ronald and Monica met while attending Florida International University, where they were both studying Architecture. They started Moniomi about five years ago and they've become unbeatable, due to the fabulous way that they lead their team, in the up and coming River Area of Miami. Monica focuses on the creative details and finishes and selecting the specifics of the Design Process, like the textiles and the furniture, while Ronald, who has his background in Project Management and Advertising, keeps everything running on time, within the budget and moving forward. They offer Full Service Interior Design, for projects of any scale, as well as Custom Art and Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Space Planning and Project Management.  Moniomi's commercial work includes a private aircraft terminal at Orion Jet Centre and their Hospitality Projects include Hyatt Place, Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Pincho Factory Restaurant. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to enjoy this talk with these two very special people, as she really enjoyed getting to know them and she thinks that you will too! Listen in now, to hear their conversation.   Today, Ronald and Monica talk to LuAnn about:   The organic development of each of their different roles, within the business, which runs in a similar way to how they organize the rest of their lives. The great level of respect and trust that Monica and Ronald have for each other. How Ronald and Monica really support each other and also even push one another at times. That Ronald initiated and brought systems into the business, while Monica concentrated on developing the firm. Their one on one Discovery Consultations, to really get the feel of the client and ascertain whether they will be compatible, or not. That they really look for creative freedom, with their projects. How they coordinate and work together on a new project. Where they fork off from one another with the projects and Monica focuses on the Design side of things, while Ronald focuses on the organizational side. How they handle their vendor meetings. That their construction documents and drawings need to be really clearly defined, for the Project Manager. That clients tend not to see the Contractor as separate from and the Designer, which can be a little unfair on the Designer. That most of their projects involve some type of renovation, which is bigger than the decorating side of things. How the communication between Ronald, Monica and the rest of the team is organized, during a project. That it's really just Ronald and Monica, as a team, that deal with the residential projects. That their design team works with the Hospitality and Commercial Projects. That their Residential clients know and feel comfortable in that they can reach out to Ronald and Monica, personally. The great respect that Ronald and Monica have for each other's capabilities. Why you need to focus on building a really strong team. Monica shares some things she's learned, in hindsight. Ronald's advice and number one take away- that all relationships, with your clients, employees and vendors really need to be valued. Mon, 19 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's guests are Ronald Alvarez and Monica Santayana, the principals of Moniomi Design in Miami, Florida. This is really going to be a great show for the takeaways, so if you're in business with a partner, whether you're married to them or not, you... Today's guests are Ronald Alvarez and Monica Santayana, the principals of Moniomi Design in Miami, Florida. This is really going to be a great show for the takeaways, so if you're in business with a partner, whether you're married to them or not, you will really get some great value today! Listen in as this very special husband and wife team talk about how they work and relate together and how this contributes to the great success of their company.   Ronald and Monica met while attending Florida International University, where they were both studying Architecture. They started Moniomi about five years ago and they've become unbeatable, due to the fabulous way that they lead their team, in the up and coming River Area of Miami. Monica focuses on the creative details and finishes and selecting the specifics of the Design Process, like the textiles and the furniture, while Ronald, who has his background in Project Management and Advertising, keeps everything running on time, within the budget and moving forward. They offer Full Service Interior Design, for projects of any scale, as well as Custom Art and Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Space Planning and Project Management.  Moniomi's commercial work includes a private aircraft terminal at Orion Jet Centre and their Hospitality Projects include Hyatt Place, Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Pincho Factory Restaurant. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to enjoy this talk with these two very special people, as she really enjoyed getting to know them and she thinks that you will too! Listen in now, to hear their conversation.   Today, Ronald and Monica talk to LuAnn about:   The organic development of each of their different roles, within the business, which runs in a similar way to how they organize the rest of their lives. The great level of respect and trust that Monica and Ronald have for each other. How Ronald and Monica really support each other and also even push one another at times. That Ronald initiated and brought systems into the business, while Monica concentrated on developing the firm. Their one on one Discovery Consultations, to really get the feel of the client and ascertain whether they will be compatible, or not. That they really look for creative freedom, with their projects. How they coordinate and work together on a new project. Where they fork off from one another with the projects and Monica focuses on the Design side of things, while Ronald focuses on the organizational side. How they handle their vendor meetings. That their construction documents and drawings need to be really clearly defined, for the Project Manager. That clients tend not to see the Contractor as separate from and the Designer, which can be a little unfair on the Designer. That most of their projects involve some type of renovation, which is bigger than the decorating side of things. How the communication between Ronald, Monica and the rest of the team is organized, during a project. That it's really just Ronald and Monica, as a team, that deal with the residential projects. That their design team works with the Hospitality and Commercial Projects. That their Residential clients know and feel comfortable in that they can reach out to Ronald and Monica, personally. The great respect that Ronald and Monica have for each other's capabilities. Why you need to focus on building a really strong team. Monica shares some things she's learned, in hindsight. Ronald's advice and number one take away- that all relationships, with your clients, employees and vendors really need to be valued. Today's guests are Ronald Alvarez and Monica Santayana, the principals of Moniomi Design in Miami, Florida. This is really going to be a great show for the takeaways, so if you're in business with a partner, whether you're married to them or not, you will really get some great value today! Listen in as this very special husband and wife team talk about how they work and relate together and how this contributes to the great success of their company.

 

Ronald and Monica met while attending Florida International University, where they were both studying Architecture. They started Moniomi about five years ago and they've become unbeatable, due to the fabulous way that they lead their team, in the up and coming River Area of Miami. Monica focuses on the creative details and finishes and selecting the specifics of the Design Process, like the textiles and the furniture, while Ronald, who has his background in Project Management and Advertising, keeps everything running on time, within the budget and moving forward. They offer Full Service Interior Design, for projects of any scale, as well as Custom Art and Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Space Planning and Project Management.  Moniomi's commercial work includes a private aircraft terminal at Orion Jet Centre and their Hospitality Projects include Hyatt Place, Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Pincho Factory Restaurant. LuAnn really thinks that you're going to enjoy this talk with these two very special people, as she really enjoyed getting to know them and she thinks that you will too! Listen in now, to hear their conversation.

 

Today, Ronald and Monica talk to LuAnn about:

 

  • The organic development of each of their different roles, within the business, which runs in a similar way to how they organize the rest of their lives.
  • The great level of respect and trust that Monica and Ronald have for each other.
  • How Ronald and Monica really support each other and also even push one another at times.
  • That Ronald initiated and brought systems into the business, while Monica concentrated on developing the firm.
  • Their one on one Discovery Consultations, to really get the feel of the client and ascertain whether they will be compatible, or not.
  • That they really look for creative freedom, with their projects.
  • How they coordinate and work together on a new project.
  • Where they fork off from one another with the projects and Monica focuses on the Design side of things, while Ronald focuses on the organizational side.
  • How they handle their vendor meetings.
  • That their construction documents and drawings need to be really clearly defined, for the Project Manager.
  • That clients tend not to see the Contractor as separate from and the Designer, which can be a little unfair on the Designer.
  • That most of their projects involve some type of renovation, which is bigger than the decorating side of things.
  • How the communication between Ronald, Monica and the rest of the team is organized, during a project.
  • That it's really just Ronald and Monica, as a team, that deal with the residential projects.
  • That their design team works with the Hospitality and Commercial Projects.
  • That their Residential clients know and feel comfortable in that they can reach out to Ronald and Monica, personally.
  • The great respect that Ronald and Monica have for each other's capabilities.
  • Why you need to focus on building a really strong team.
  • Monica shares some things she's learned, in hindsight.
  • Ronald's advice and number one take away- that all relationships, with your clients, employees and vendors really need to be valued.
]]> 4584 no 192: Power Talk Friday - Adam Urbanski: Dream Business Design Process- How to identify what you want most to sell to your most ideal client http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/192-power-talk-friday-adam-urbanski-dream-business-design-process-how-to-identify-what-you-want-most-to-sell-to-your-most-ideal-client The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!   Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you're really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies.   Links: Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook Fri, 16 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients. Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!   Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about: Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach. What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on. How he discovered his ideal clients. That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design! That marketing is really all about listening. Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them. Finding your specific magic, as a Designer. Thinking about your dream income, per client. Identifying your dream project. Identifying the characteristics of your dream client. What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower) Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project. Expressing what you're really good at to your client. Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business. Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients. Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year. Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed. That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies.   Links: Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Adam Urbanski, aka The Millionaire Marketing Mentor and he's a real headliner in Online Marketing and Podcast circles! There are so many ways that Adam could really help and influence all LuAnn's Designer friends to get that extra 'something' to tweak their businesses, so today, she's decided to go with Adam's Dream Business Design Process. Listen in to find out how this process helps Designers to identify what they want to sell the most and also how to sell to the most clients.

Adam, who has been in business for seventeen years now,  is really the 'go to guy' for Coaches, Consultants and other Service Professionals who want to attract more clients, convert more high-value sales, build an authority brand, or grow a Lifestyle Business that has more impact and generates more income. Adam's clients have often doubled, tripled and even ten times-ed their businesses, some of them in as little as ninety days! All of this and Adam started out with only $194 and limited English and he still managed to turn his first business into a seven-figure business in less than ten years! LuAnn knows that she's in the presence of a true expert with Adam, so she's very grateful that he's on the show today! Listen in now, as Adam shares some really hot tips with you, to help you to become a way better business strategist!

 

Today, Adam talks to LuAnn about:

  • Becoming a master of, and being known for a very specific approach.
  • What his six question worksheet allows you to zero in on.
  • How he discovered his ideal clients.
  • That 90% of his clients are women and this happened by design!
  • That marketing is really all about listening.
  • Adam talks you through his six questions and how to best approach working with them.
  • Finding your specific magic, as a Designer.
  • Thinking about your dream income, per client.
  • Identifying your dream project.
  • Identifying the characteristics of your dream client.
  • What you'd need to do in order to execute your project in the best possible way. (i.e. identifying your Superpower)
  • Really understanding the expectations that you have to meet with your project.
  • Expressing what you're really good at to your client.
  • Establishing systems for really clear processes in your business.
  • Knowing that everything is changing all the time, so you need to maintain a constant process of evaluation with your clients.
  • Asking yourself how much money you'd like to make from each project, per year.
  • Examining which three to six marketing activities you really need to focus on- to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
  • That you should really become a one track pony, in order to not lose sight of your core competencies.

 

Links:

Adam's websites: www.adamurbanski.com or www.themarketingmentors.com

Adam Urbanski is also on Facebook

]]> 3858 no 191: Paul Thomas & Daniel Beauchemin -How Artists and Custom Framers Benefit Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/191-paul-thomas-daniel-beauchemin-how-artists-and-custom-framers-benefit-your-interior-design-firm Are you a little intimidated at the thought of incorporating art into your design projects? Well, today's show could really help you to move beyond that, as the discussion centers on the value of a trusted vendor- in this case, an expert Framer, someone who can really help you to attain success in this area.  LuAnn points out that the expert Framer is yet another colleague for you to rely on and so she couldn't think of a better way to have this conversation, than to have an artist on the show, alongside his favorite Framer. Listen in today, as LuAnn talks to Paul Thomas, a renowned artist and Daniel Beauchemin,  an accomplished Interior Designer and the owner of the famous Chelsea Frames, in New York City, about the importance of quality professional framing and how that can really enhance a beautiful piece of art. Paul Thomas has been described as an artist of intuition. His paintings are composed through a natural pattern of creation, rather than a formal analysis. Paul's work is a true reflection of his personality- bright, cheerful, full of vitality and movement and filled with an inner radiance. Much of the translucence of the color tends to be lost when viewing Paul's work online or in a catalog, so it would really be well worth seeing it in person. His work is in both public and private collections in the US, Canada, France, Italy and South America. Some of the highlight collections include the US Consulate in Florence, Italy, The Museum of Contemporary Art in Bologna, The Louis Azzaro Collection, The NYU Langone Medical Centre, Montefiore Medical Centre, Boston Scientific World Headquarters, Holiday House 2013, 2014 and 2015 and Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2015. In 2016, Paul won “Best In Show” at the Architectural Digest Design Show, where he collaborated with Charles Pavarini (Episode #16). Paul has also worked in collaboration with numerous other well known Interior Designers. In 2017, Paul's work became the exclusive art for Haru Restaurants in New York City. Daniel Beauchemin grew up in a house where the design was part of daily life. It was a multi-cultural environment where he was exposed to the Canadian-American and European culture at home and his parent's friends spanned the whole world, so he developed an eclectic taste for beautifully designed things from a very early age. Daniel studied Architecture, with a focus on Furniture design, as well as Art History and Interiors. He came to New York in the early 1990's and worked with some notable New York City Interior Design Firms and he also opened his own firm in 1996, which he ran until 2009. He purchased Chelsea Frames in 1995 and it became the focus of his work. By 2009, it had become one of the most renowned framing studios in the USA, with customers all over the world. He left for a while and worked and designed for Larson-Juhl, but after seven years, he rejoined his partner, Jaclyn Acker, full time in Chelsea Frames, where he still works with Collectors, Designers, and clients on a daily basis. Listen in now and learn from a unique perspective, how you can incorporate fine art into your Design Projects with confidence! Today, LuAnn, Paul, and Daniel discuss: Daniel's perspective on the relationship between an Artist and a Framer and what he brings to the table when he works with an artist like Paul. How Daniel was recently approached by Larson-Juhl to do their booth presentation at the Art Expo New York 2017. How Daniel approached the Larson-Juhl booth at the Art Expo New York and framed Paul's pieces in three different ways so that he could effectively display both Larson Jewel's products and Paul's work. Paul's thought that the artist's work is elevated by what the Framer does with it. How Daniel guides designers to learn to develop an eye to select a really good frame. That it's really Daniel's job to listen. The three very different collection styles that Daniel used with the Larson-Juhl booth presentation. The effect that Daniel's work- the art of framing- has on Paul and his work. The real benefit of Artists, Framers, and Designers working collaboratively. How Daniel actually 'finished' one of Paul's pieces. Some tips for Designers to work better with Framers. That Daniel works regularly with Designers all over the world, so you can feel free to reach out to him. Paul's suggestion for making the best decision when choosing a frame. That there are some Designers who actually create the room around the art because it's such an important feature. Links: Daniel's email: daniel@chelseaframes.com Wed, 14 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you a little intimidated at the thought of incorporating art into your design projects? Well, today's show could really help you to move beyond that, as the discussion centers on the value of a trusted vendor- in this case, an expert Framer,... Are you a little intimidated at the thought of incorporating art into your design projects? Well, today's show could really help you to move beyond that, as the discussion centers on the value of a trusted vendor- in this case, an expert Framer, someone who can really help you to attain success in this area.  LuAnn points out that the expert Framer is yet another colleague for you to rely on and so she couldn't think of a better way to have this conversation, than to have an artist on the show, alongside his favorite Framer. Listen in today, as LuAnn talks to Paul Thomas, a renowned artist and Daniel Beauchemin,  an accomplished Interior Designer and the owner of the famous Chelsea Frames, in New York City, about the importance of quality professional framing and how that can really enhance a beautiful piece of art. Paul Thomas has been described as an artist of intuition. His paintings are composed through a natural pattern of creation, rather than a formal analysis. Paul's work is a true reflection of his personality- bright, cheerful, full of vitality and movement and filled with an inner radiance. Much of the translucence of the color tends to be lost when viewing Paul's work online or in a catalog, so it would really be well worth seeing it in person. His work is in both public and private collections in the US, Canada, France, Italy and South America. Some of the highlight collections include the US Consulate in Florence, Italy, The Museum of Contemporary Art in Bologna, The Louis Azzaro Collection, The NYU Langone Medical Centre, Montefiore Medical Centre, Boston Scientific World Headquarters, Holiday House 2013, 2014 and 2015 and Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2015. In 2016, Paul won “Best In Show” at the Architectural Digest Design Show, where he collaborated with Charles Pavarini (Episode #16). Paul has also worked in collaboration with numerous other well known Interior Designers. In 2017, Paul's work became the exclusive art for Haru Restaurants in New York City. Daniel Beauchemin grew up in a house where the design was part of daily life. It was a multi-cultural environment where he was exposed to the Canadian-American and European culture at home and his parent's friends spanned the whole world, so he developed an eclectic taste for beautifully designed things from a very early age. Daniel studied Architecture, with a focus on Furniture design, as well as Art History and Interiors. He came to New York in the early 1990's and worked with some notable New York City Interior Design Firms and he also opened his own firm in 1996, which he ran until 2009. He purchased Chelsea Frames in 1995 and it became the focus of his work. By 2009, it had become one of the most renowned framing studios in the USA, with customers all over the world. He left for a while and worked and designed for Larson-Juhl, but after seven years, he rejoined his partner, Jaclyn Acker, full time in Chelsea Frames, where he still works with Collectors, Designers, and clients on a daily basis. Listen in now and learn from a unique perspective, how you can incorporate fine art into your Design Projects with confidence! Today, LuAnn, Paul, and Daniel discuss: Daniel's perspective on the relationship between an Artist and a Framer and what he brings to the table when he works with an artist like Paul. How Daniel was recently approached by Larson-Juhl to do their booth presentation at the Art Expo New York 2017. How Daniel approached the Larson-Juhl booth at the Art Expo New York and framed Paul's pieces in three different ways so that he could effectively display both Larson Jewel's products and Paul's work. Paul's thought that the artist's work is elevated by what the Framer does with it. How Daniel guides designers to learn to develop an eye to select a really good frame. That it's really Daniel's job to listen. The three very different collection styles that Daniel used with the Larson-Juhl booth presentation. The effect that Daniel's work- the art of framing- has on Paul and his work. The real benefit of Artists, Framers, and Designers working collaboratively. How Daniel actually 'finished' one of Paul's pieces. Some tips for Designers to work better with Framers. That Daniel works regularly with Designers all over the world, so you can feel free to reach out to him. Paul's suggestion for making the best decision when choosing a frame. That there are some Designers who actually create the room around the art because it's such an important feature. Links: Daniel's email: daniel@chelseaframes.com Are you a little intimidated at the thought of incorporating art into your design projects? Well, today's show could really help you to move beyond that, as the discussion centers on the value of a trusted vendor- in this case, an expert Framer, someone who can really help you to attain success in this area.  LuAnn points out that the expert Framer is yet another colleague for you to rely on and so she couldn't think of a better way to have this conversation, than to have an artist on the show, alongside his favorite Framer. Listen in today, as LuAnn talks to Paul Thomas, a renowned artist and Daniel Beauchemin,  an accomplished Interior Designer and the owner of the famous Chelsea Frames, in New York City, about the importance of quality professional framing and how that can really enhance a beautiful piece of art.

Paul Thomas has been described as an artist of intuition. His paintings are composed through a natural pattern of creation, rather than a formal analysis. Paul's work is a true reflection of his personality- bright, cheerful, full of vitality and movement and filled with an inner radiance. Much of the translucence of the color tends to be lost when viewing Paul's work online or in a catalog, so it would really be well worth seeing it in person. His work is in both public and private collections in the US, Canada, France, Italy and South America. Some of the highlight collections include the US Consulate in Florence, Italy, The Museum of Contemporary Art in Bologna, The Louis Azzaro Collection, The NYU Langone Medical Centre, Montefiore Medical Centre, Boston Scientific World Headquarters, Holiday House 2013, 2014 and 2015 and Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2015. In 2016, Paul won “Best In Show” at the Architectural Digest Design Show, where he collaborated with Charles Pavarini (Episode #16). Paul has also worked in collaboration with numerous other well known Interior Designers. In 2017, Paul's work became the exclusive art for Haru Restaurants in New York City.

Daniel Beauchemin grew up in a house where the design was part of daily life. It was a multi-cultural environment where he was exposed to the Canadian-American and European culture at home and his parent's friends spanned the whole world, so he developed an eclectic taste for beautifully designed things from a very early age. Daniel studied Architecture, with a focus on Furniture design, as well as Art History and Interiors. He came to New York in the early 1990's and worked with some notable New York City Interior Design Firms and he also opened his own firm in 1996, which he ran until 2009. He purchased Chelsea Frames in 1995 and it became the focus of his work. By 2009, it had become one of the most renowned framing studios in the USA, with customers all over the world. He left for a while and worked and designed for Larson-Juhl, but after seven years, he rejoined his partner, Jaclyn Acker, full time in Chelsea Frames, where he still works with Collectors, Designers, and clients on a daily basis. Listen in now and learn from a unique perspective, how you can incorporate fine art into your Design Projects with confidence!

Today, LuAnn, Paul, and Daniel discuss:

  • Daniel's perspective on the relationship between an Artist and a Framer and what he brings to the table when he works with an artist like Paul.
  • How Daniel was recently approached by Larson-Juhl to do their booth presentation at the Art Expo New York 2017.
  • How Daniel approached the Larson-Juhl booth at the Art Expo New York and framed Paul's pieces in three different ways so that he could effectively display both Larson Jewel's products and Paul's work.
  • Paul's thought that the artist's work is elevated by what the Framer does with it.
  • How Daniel guides designers to learn to develop an eye to select a really good frame.
  • That it's really Daniel's job to listen.
  • The three very different collection styles that Daniel used with the Larson-Juhl booth presentation.
  • The effect that Daniel's work- the art of framing- has on Paul and his work.
  • The real benefit of Artists, Framers, and Designers working collaboratively.
  • How Daniel actually 'finished' one of Paul's pieces.
  • Some tips for Designers to work better with Framers.
  • That Daniel works regularly with Designers all over the world, so you can feel free to reach out to him.
  • Paul's suggestion for making the best decision when choosing a frame.
  • That there are some Designers who actually create the room around the art because it's such an important feature.

Links:

Daniel's email: daniel@chelseaframes.com

]]> 3605 no 190: Kathy Kuo - How Kathy Kuo Home, the Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/190-kathy-kuo-how-kathy-kuo-home-the-online-boutique-can-assist-your-interior-design-firm Today’s guest is Kathy Kuo, an open, high-energy, talented designer, and Rockstar businesswoman.  You may have seen her amazing Instagram feed or heard of the online boutique she founded, Kathy Kuo Home. She’s also a wife, mother, cook, and world traveler. Born in Taiwan, raised in Boston, and now settled in NYC, Kathy graduated from the Rhode Island School of Interior Design and has traveled to over 30 countries. She recently starred in the FYI Network’s Rowhouse Showdown and her designs have been featured in several lifestyle publications. She’s here to discuss her career, her design firm, and how Kathy Kuo Home can help you! What you’ll hear in this episode: The impetus behind the e-commerce site she founded 10 years ago: it later became Kathy Kuo Home How times have changed in the last 2-3 years Kathy’s site, and how it is consumer-facing and trade-facing Freedom and flexibility with online shopping How Kathy’s network functions to meet clients’ needs What it’s like working with celebrities Great topics on Kathy’s blog: The top three? How to answer awkward questions, How to mix metals, and How to create a design board Why your initial contract should include clear intention How to deal with a client’s inflamed remarks Vendors available at KKH E-design: how it works Why the presentation has to be significant Kathy’s “Get the Look” project collection Resources: www.kathykuohome.com (Find Kathy’s blog, shop, and design business information!) www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness (Find the special offer for listeners!) Mon, 12 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s guest is Kathy Kuo, an open, high-energy, talented designer, and Rockstar businesswoman.  You may have seen her amazing Instagram feed or heard of the online boutique she founded, Kathy Kuo Home. She’s also a wife, mother, cook, and... Today’s guest is Kathy Kuo, an open, high-energy, talented designer, and Rockstar businesswoman.  You may have seen her amazing Instagram feed or heard of the online boutique she founded, Kathy Kuo Home. She’s also a wife, mother, cook, and world traveler. Born in Taiwan, raised in Boston, and now settled in NYC, Kathy graduated from the Rhode Island School of Interior Design and has traveled to over 30 countries. She recently starred in the FYI Network’s Rowhouse Showdown and her designs have been featured in several lifestyle publications. She’s here to discuss her career, her design firm, and how Kathy Kuo Home can help you! What you’ll hear in this episode: The impetus behind the e-commerce site she founded 10 years ago: it later became Kathy Kuo Home How times have changed in the last 2-3 years Kathy’s site, and how it is consumer-facing and trade-facing Freedom and flexibility with online shopping How Kathy’s network functions to meet clients’ needs What it’s like working with celebrities Great topics on Kathy’s blog: The top three? How to answer awkward questions, How to mix metals, and How to create a design board Why your initial contract should include clear intention How to deal with a client’s inflamed remarks Vendors available at KKH E-design: how it works Why the presentation has to be significant Kathy’s “Get the Look” project collection Resources: www.kathykuohome.com (Find Kathy’s blog, shop, and design business information!) www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness (Find the special offer for listeners!) Today’s guest is Kathy Kuo, an open, high-energy, talented designer, and Rockstar businesswoman.  You may have seen her amazing Instagram feed or heard of the online boutique she founded, Kathy Kuo Home. She’s also a wife, mother, cook, and world traveler. Born in Taiwan, raised in Boston, and now settled in NYC, Kathy graduated from the Rhode Island School of Interior Design and has traveled to over 30 countries. She recently starred in the FYI Network’s Rowhouse Showdown and her designs have been featured in several lifestyle publications. She’s here to discuss her career, her design firm, and how Kathy Kuo Home can help you!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • The impetus behind the e-commerce site she founded 10 years ago: it later became Kathy Kuo Home
  • How times have changed in the last 2-3 years
  • Kathy’s site, and how it is consumer-facing and trade-facing
  • Freedom and flexibility with online shopping
  • How Kathy’s network functions to meet clients’ needs
  • What it’s like working with celebrities
  • Great topics on Kathy’s blog: The top three? How to answer awkward questions, How to mix metals, and How to create a design board
  • Why your initial contract should include clear intention
  • How to deal with a client’s inflamed remarks
  • Vendors available at KKH
  • E-design: how it works
  • Why the presentation has to be significant
  • Kathy’s “Get the Look” project collection

Resources:

www.kathykuohome.com (Find Kathy’s blog, shop, and design business information!)

www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness (Find the special offer for listeners!)

]]> 4390 no 189: Power Talk Friday - Jan Bowen: Cultivating Your Intuition is Smart for You & For Your Interior Design Business. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/189-power-talk-friday-jan-bowen-cultivating-your-intuition-is-smart-for-you-for-your-interior-design-business The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jan Bowen, the Founder, and Principal of Strategic Solution Services. Jan is an author, a keynote speaker, a catalyst and a thought leader, with the central theme of her work being alignment. Jan talks about work aligning with life from both the inside and the outside. She is passionate about helping people to live their lives fully, through her work as an Author, a Coach, and a Public Speaker as well as through her business. Listen in to find out more about Jan and the really inspiring work she does. LuAnn could talk to Jan about any of the several aspects of coaching that she does- Leadership Coaching and working with teams or individuals, but the subject of intuition is the one that came up. There are so many things that LuAnn can teach, but she realized that although she's a huge believer in intuition and she's spent her whole life, since childhood, cultivating it, she feels that teaching people how to cultivate and follow their intuition isn't something that she can break down into actionable advice. Intuition has become so instinctive for her that she doubts she has the language to teach it. So, today LuAnn will talk about that with Jan, because Jan really knows how to teach people how to use it- it relates to leadership training and to interactions with clients. Listen in now and find out from Jan how you can cultivate your intuition and use it to enhance your life and business. Today, LuAnn talks to Jan about: How her intuition speaks to her. How she teaches people to cultivate their intuition. What people tend to think that intuition is. Allowing your intuition to build and develop. Keeping a log of your successes with your intuition. How to know the difference between just an idea and her intuition. That intuition is rational- it's not emotional. Starting with knowing what your personal feelings about intuition really are. That your intuition will never lead you into harm- it will save you. Your intuition is really your truest self, talking to you. Paying attention to ways that you get your intuitive messages and the miraculous patterns that they form. That many people get their intuitive messages when they're showering. Having goals for how you would like your intuition to work for you. How Jan uses her intuition in a unique way, within business relationships. The many, many areas in your life that intuition can really work for you. Keeping track of how your intuition talks to you, to increase the intuitive messages that you will receive. Clearing your clutter, to be still and better hear your intuitive voice. When you are physiologically busy, you can often be more open to hearing your intuition. Allowing your intuition to talk to you, as you really do have all the information that you need, for everything. Listening carefully to pick up the non-verbal messages that people are giving you. That your heart is really intelligent! Why you need to trust and follow your hunches. That using your intuition makes it grow stronger. Intuition is part of the human condition. Resources: Jan's books: It's Not That Complicated- How To Create A Personalised Template Of Alignment. Why Do You Get Up In The Morning?- Demystifying Life Purpose How To Hear What You Know Links: Jan's website: www.janlbowen.com Jan is also on Instagram, Linkedin, and Twitter Fri, 09 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jan Bowen, the Founder, and Principal of Strategic Solution Services. Jan is an author, a keynote speaker, a catalyst and a thought leader, with the central theme of her work being alignment. Jan talks about... The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jan Bowen, the Founder, and Principal of Strategic Solution Services. Jan is an author, a keynote speaker, a catalyst and a thought leader, with the central theme of her work being alignment. Jan talks about work aligning with life from both the inside and the outside. She is passionate about helping people to live their lives fully, through her work as an Author, a Coach, and a Public Speaker as well as through her business. Listen in to find out more about Jan and the really inspiring work she does. LuAnn could talk to Jan about any of the several aspects of coaching that she does- Leadership Coaching and working with teams or individuals, but the subject of intuition is the one that came up. There are so many things that LuAnn can teach, but she realized that although she's a huge believer in intuition and she's spent her whole life, since childhood, cultivating it, she feels that teaching people how to cultivate and follow their intuition isn't something that she can break down into actionable advice. Intuition has become so instinctive for her that she doubts she has the language to teach it. So, today LuAnn will talk about that with Jan, because Jan really knows how to teach people how to use it- it relates to leadership training and to interactions with clients. Listen in now and find out from Jan how you can cultivate your intuition and use it to enhance your life and business. Today, LuAnn talks to Jan about: How her intuition speaks to her. How she teaches people to cultivate their intuition. What people tend to think that intuition is. Allowing your intuition to build and develop. Keeping a log of your successes with your intuition. How to know the difference between just an idea and her intuition. That intuition is rational- it's not emotional. Starting with knowing what your personal feelings about intuition really are. That your intuition will never lead you into harm- it will save you. Your intuition is really your truest self, talking to you. Paying attention to ways that you get your intuitive messages and the miraculous patterns that they form. That many people get their intuitive messages when they're showering. Having goals for how you would like your intuition to work for you. How Jan uses her intuition in a unique way, within business relationships. The many, many areas in your life that intuition can really work for you. Keeping track of how your intuition talks to you, to increase the intuitive messages that you will receive. Clearing your clutter, to be still and better hear your intuitive voice. When you are physiologically busy, you can often be more open to hearing your intuition. Allowing your intuition to talk to you, as you really do have all the information that you need, for everything. Listening carefully to pick up the non-verbal messages that people are giving you. That your heart is really intelligent! Why you need to trust and follow your hunches. That using your intuition makes it grow stronger. Intuition is part of the human condition. Resources: Jan's books: It's Not That Complicated- How To Create A Personalised Template Of Alignment. Why Do You Get Up In The Morning?- Demystifying Life Purpose How To Hear What You Know Links: Jan's website: www.janlbowen.com Jan is also on Instagram, Linkedin, and Twitter The guest for today's Power Talk Friday is Jan Bowen, the Founder, and Principal of Strategic Solution Services. Jan is an author, a keynote speaker, a catalyst and a thought leader, with the central theme of her work being alignment. Jan talks about work aligning with life from both the inside and the outside. She is passionate about helping people to live their lives fully, through her work as an Author, a Coach, and a Public Speaker as well as through her business. Listen in to find out more about Jan and the really inspiring work she does.

LuAnn could talk to Jan about any of the several aspects of coaching that she does- Leadership Coaching and working with teams or individuals, but the subject of intuition is the one that came up. There are so many things that LuAnn can teach, but she realized that although she's a huge believer in intuition and she's spent her whole life, since childhood, cultivating it, she feels that teaching people how to cultivate and follow their intuition isn't something that she can break down into actionable advice. Intuition has become so instinctive for her that she doubts she has the language to teach it. So, today LuAnn will talk about that with Jan, because Jan really knows how to teach people how to use it- it relates to leadership training and to interactions with clients. Listen in now and find out from Jan how you can cultivate your intuition and use it to enhance your life and business.

Today, LuAnn talks to Jan about:

  • How her intuition speaks to her.
  • How she teaches people to cultivate their intuition.
  • What people tend to think that intuition is.
  • Allowing your intuition to build and develop.
  • Keeping a log of your successes with your intuition.
  • How to know the difference between just an idea and her intuition.
  • That intuition is rational- it's not emotional.
  • Starting with knowing what your personal feelings about intuition really are.
  • That your intuition will never lead you into harm- it will save you.
  • Your intuition is really your truest self, talking to you.
  • Paying attention to ways that you get your intuitive messages and the miraculous patterns that they form.
  • That many people get their intuitive messages when they're showering.
  • Having goals for how you would like your intuition to work for you.
  • How Jan uses her intuition in a unique way, within business relationships.
  • The many, many areas in your life that intuition can really work for you.
  • Keeping track of how your intuition talks to you, to increase the intuitive messages that you will receive.
  • Clearing your clutter, to be still and better hear your intuitive voice.
  • When you are physiologically busy, you can often be more open to hearing your intuition.
  • Allowing your intuition to talk to you, as you really do have all the information that you need, for everything.
  • Listening carefully to pick up the non-verbal messages that people are giving you.
  • That your heart is really intelligent!
  • Why you need to trust and follow your hunches.
  • That using your intuition makes it grow stronger.
  • Intuition is part of the human condition.

Resources:

Jan's books:

It's Not That Complicated- How To Create A Personalised Template Of Alignment.

Why Do You Get Up In The Morning?- Demystifying Life Purpose

How To Hear What You Know

Links:

Jan's website: www.janlbowen.com

Jan is also on Instagram, Linkedin, and Twitter

]]> 3979 no 188: Jane Cunningham- Why Defining Your Core Values Helps Grow Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/188-jane-cunningham-why-defining-your-core-values-helps-grow-your-interior-design-business The guest on today's show is Jane Cunningham, the President, Principal Designer and CEO of Room Resolutions. Interestingly, Jane is also a classically trained musician- she used to be the Principal Clarinettist in the Honolulu Symphony. Jane describes how she is particularly skilled at finding her way through the intimacy of the second movement of a musical piece. LuAnn learned from Jane's website how Jane sees the second movement in music in correlation to the journey we have in our lives, seeking a different tempo in the second half, or sometimes even changing the theme, or using a different key. That got LuAnn thinking about Fred Berns (#174) and she found it interesting that Jane not only knows what her 'only' is, but she has it right there, on her website! Listen in and find out how Jane's skill as a classically trained musician and her specific talent for the second movement inform her both as an individual and as a Designer.   Room Resolutions is a luxury Interior Design Firm, which is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, specializing in large scale residential and commercial renovation, as well as new builds. Jane runs Room Resolutions together with her daughter, Amanda, who is the firm's Design Manager. Amanda is responsible for educating the clients about the scope, the specifications and the details of the selections in the projects, from vendor relationships, procurement and expediting, to total Project Management, including the overseeing of the tradesmen and craftsmen. She also manages all the Social Media and website tasks. Sounds like a busy lady! Listen in now to find out more about the awesome firm that these two ladies run together!   Today, Jane and LuAnn discuss: The 12 Core Values of her Company, that Jane has listed on her website. How Jane arrived at her Core Values. The value of being clear about who you are and what you want to convey to your clients. The more that people get to know who you are, the more you can stand out. That for Jane, there has to be an in-depth relationship with her clients, which starts with her being intrinsically honest about who she really is. Vulnerability- how it works for Jane in getting people to know who she really is. What Jane means by 'Champagne Professionals'. How Jane's firm keeps everything in really detailed and systemized order. Making sure that the communication is really clear when working on a project, by setting everything up in advance. Jane's process of avoiding glitches in the Designer world. Dealing effectively with changes, with clear communication. How Jane handles with her client communication, by corralling them in the beginning. How Jane ascertains if a client is right for her firm. Two questions that you could ask your potential clients, to tell you a lot about them. Some amazing things about Amanda! Wed, 07 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Jane Cunningham, the President, Principal Designer and CEO of Room Resolutions. Interestingly, Jane is also a classically trained musician- she used to be the Principal Clarinettist in the Honolulu Symphony. Jane describes... The guest on today's show is Jane Cunningham, the President, Principal Designer and CEO of Room Resolutions. Interestingly, Jane is also a classically trained musician- she used to be the Principal Clarinettist in the Honolulu Symphony. Jane describes how she is particularly skilled at finding her way through the intimacy of the second movement of a musical piece. LuAnn learned from Jane's website how Jane sees the second movement in music in correlation to the journey we have in our lives, seeking a different tempo in the second half, or sometimes even changing the theme, or using a different key. That got LuAnn thinking about Fred Berns (#174) and she found it interesting that Jane not only knows what her 'only' is, but she has it right there, on her website! Listen in and find out how Jane's skill as a classically trained musician and her specific talent for the second movement inform her both as an individual and as a Designer.   Room Resolutions is a luxury Interior Design Firm, which is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, specializing in large scale residential and commercial renovation, as well as new builds. Jane runs Room Resolutions together with her daughter, Amanda, who is the firm's Design Manager. Amanda is responsible for educating the clients about the scope, the specifications and the details of the selections in the projects, from vendor relationships, procurement and expediting, to total Project Management, including the overseeing of the tradesmen and craftsmen. She also manages all the Social Media and website tasks. Sounds like a busy lady! Listen in now to find out more about the awesome firm that these two ladies run together!   Today, Jane and LuAnn discuss: The 12 Core Values of her Company, that Jane has listed on her website. How Jane arrived at her Core Values. The value of being clear about who you are and what you want to convey to your clients. The more that people get to know who you are, the more you can stand out. That for Jane, there has to be an in-depth relationship with her clients, which starts with her being intrinsically honest about who she really is. Vulnerability- how it works for Jane in getting people to know who she really is. What Jane means by 'Champagne Professionals'. How Jane's firm keeps everything in really detailed and systemized order. Making sure that the communication is really clear when working on a project, by setting everything up in advance. Jane's process of avoiding glitches in the Designer world. Dealing effectively with changes, with clear communication. How Jane handles with her client communication, by corralling them in the beginning. How Jane ascertains if a client is right for her firm. Two questions that you could ask your potential clients, to tell you a lot about them. Some amazing things about Amanda! The guest on today's show is Jane Cunningham, the President, Principal Designer and CEO of Room Resolutions. Interestingly, Jane is also a classically trained musician- she used to be the Principal Clarinettist in the Honolulu Symphony. Jane describes how she is particularly skilled at finding her way through the intimacy of the second movement of a musical piece. LuAnn learned from Jane's website how Jane sees the second movement in music in correlation to the journey we have in our lives, seeking a different tempo in the second half, or sometimes even changing the theme, or using a different key. That got LuAnn thinking about Fred Berns (#174) and she found it interesting that Jane not only knows what her 'only' is, but she has it right there, on her website! Listen in and find out how Jane's skill as a classically trained musician and her specific talent for the second movement inform her both as an individual and as a Designer.

 

Room Resolutions is a luxury Interior Design Firm, which is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, specializing in large scale residential and commercial renovation, as well as new builds. Jane runs Room Resolutions together with her daughter, Amanda, who is the firm's Design Manager. Amanda is responsible for educating the clients about the scope, the specifications and the details of the selections in the projects, from vendor relationships, procurement and expediting, to total Project Management, including the overseeing of the tradesmen and craftsmen. She also manages all the Social Media and website tasks. Sounds like a busy lady! Listen in now to find out more about the awesome firm that these two ladies run together!

 

Today, Jane and LuAnn discuss:

  • The 12 Core Values of her Company, that Jane has listed on her website.
  • How Jane arrived at her Core Values.
  • The value of being clear about who you are and what you want to convey to your clients.
  • The more that people get to know who you are, the more you can stand out.
  • That for Jane, there has to be an in-depth relationship with her clients, which starts with her being intrinsically honest about who she really is.
  • Vulnerability- how it works for Jane in getting people to know who she really is.
  • What Jane means by 'Champagne Professionals'.
  • How Jane's firm keeps everything in really detailed and systemized order.
  • Making sure that the communication is really clear when working on a project, by setting everything up in advance.
  • Jane's process of avoiding glitches in the Designer world.
  • Dealing effectively with changes, with clear communication.
  • How Jane handles with her client communication, by corralling them in the beginning.
  • How Jane ascertains if a client is right for her firm.
  • Two questions that you could ask your potential clients, to tell you a lot about them.

Some amazing things about Amanda!

]]> 4911 no 187: Laura Lochrin- Strategies to Help Your New Interior Design Firm Look & Be More Professional http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/187-laura-lochrin-strategies-to-help-your-new-interior-design-firm-look-be-more-professional Are you an Outlanders fan? If so, you're just going to love listening to the accent of today's guest! LuAnn warns you though, that if you're not, the first five to ten minutes of today's show aren't going to be your cup of tea! Today's guest is Laura Lochrin, who's originally from Scotland and she only moved here, with her husband and children, five years ago.  She now lives in sunny California. Listen in to find out about Laura and the particular way that she goes about her business. LuAnn was really surprised to discover that Laura only opened her firm eight months ago. Today, they talk about the challenges that Laura faces in having a start-up design firm, two small children and a husband- all of this while living on the other side of the world from where she was raised! Listen in now, to their really fun conversation. Today, Laura talks to LuAnn about: What it was like for her, getting started in the USA. How she grew her Instagram following in such a short time. Her Instagram feed- how much of her own work is on it and how much of it is curated posts of other people's work. Laura's way of working with Instagram. How Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and now also Yelp are translating into business for Laura. Appealing to the right people for her kind of work, through her Instagram feed. Using Instagram as a Marketing Tool. Those things are starting to get a little hectic with her solo business, now. Time management- one of her biggest challenges at the moment. The challenges of being a working mom. How she makes things work, as a mom and a designer. That she developed the necessary confidence to do design work as a result of her background in advertising. Some of the challenges that she faces with her business, at the moment. How much she's learned from listening to LuAnn's Podcast! That she uses Design Manager to help with her administrative processes. That she falls a little more in love with MyDoma, every time she uses it. What she does that really helps her new business to thrive. How Laura structures her fees. That she knows the value of her work because she knows what she has to give up in her life, in order to make it happen. Making the time to go to the Industry Markets and to meet other designers. That her Superpower is all about the details- in every aspect of her life. Laura's website: Laura Lochrin Interiors Mon, 05 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you an Outlanders fan? If so, you're just going to love listening to the accent of today's guest! LuAnn warns you though, that if you're not, the first five to ten minutes of today's show aren't going to be your cup of tea! Today's guest is Laura... Are you an Outlanders fan? If so, you're just going to love listening to the accent of today's guest! LuAnn warns you though, that if you're not, the first five to ten minutes of today's show aren't going to be your cup of tea! Today's guest is Laura Lochrin, who's originally from Scotland and she only moved here, with her husband and children, five years ago.  She now lives in sunny California. Listen in to find out about Laura and the particular way that she goes about her business. LuAnn was really surprised to discover that Laura only opened her firm eight months ago. Today, they talk about the challenges that Laura faces in having a start-up design firm, two small children and a husband- all of this while living on the other side of the world from where she was raised! Listen in now, to their really fun conversation. Today, Laura talks to LuAnn about: What it was like for her, getting started in the USA. How she grew her Instagram following in such a short time. Her Instagram feed- how much of her own work is on it and how much of it is curated posts of other people's work. Laura's way of working with Instagram. How Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and now also Yelp are translating into business for Laura. Appealing to the right people for her kind of work, through her Instagram feed. Using Instagram as a Marketing Tool. Those things are starting to get a little hectic with her solo business, now. Time management- one of her biggest challenges at the moment. The challenges of being a working mom. How she makes things work, as a mom and a designer. That she developed the necessary confidence to do design work as a result of her background in advertising. Some of the challenges that she faces with her business, at the moment. How much she's learned from listening to LuAnn's Podcast! That she uses Design Manager to help with her administrative processes. That she falls a little more in love with MyDoma, every time she uses it. What she does that really helps her new business to thrive. How Laura structures her fees. That she knows the value of her work because she knows what she has to give up in her life, in order to make it happen. Making the time to go to the Industry Markets and to meet other designers. That her Superpower is all about the details- in every aspect of her life. Laura's website: Laura Lochrin Interiors Are you an Outlanders fan? If so, you're just going to love listening to the accent of today's guest! LuAnn warns you though, that if you're not, the first five to ten minutes of today's show aren't going to be your cup of tea! Today's guest is Laura Lochrin, who's originally from Scotland and she only moved here, with her husband and children, five years ago.  She now lives in sunny California. Listen in to find out about Laura and the particular way that she goes about her business.

LuAnn was really surprised to discover that Laura only opened her firm eight months ago. Today, they talk about the challenges that Laura faces in having a start-up design firm, two small children and a husband- all of this while living on the other side of the world from where she was raised! Listen in now, to their really fun conversation. Today, Laura talks to LuAnn about:

  • What it was like for her, getting started in the USA.
  • How she grew her Instagram following in such a short time.
  • Her Instagram feed- how much of her own work is on it and how much of it is curated posts of other people's work.
  • Laura's way of working with Instagram.
  • How Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and now also Yelp are translating into business for Laura.
  • Appealing to the right people for her kind of work, through her Instagram feed.
  • Using Instagram as a Marketing Tool.
  • Those things are starting to get a little hectic with her solo business, now.
  • Time management- one of her biggest challenges at the moment.
  • The challenges of being a working mom.
  • How she makes things work, as a mom and a designer.
  • That she developed the necessary confidence to do design work as a result of her background in advertising.
  • Some of the challenges that she faces with her business, at the moment.
  • How much she's learned from listening to LuAnn's Podcast!
  • That she uses Design Manager to help with her administrative processes.
  • That she falls a little more in love with MyDoma, every time she uses it.
  • What she does that really helps her new business to thrive.
  • How Laura structures her fees.
  • That she knows the value of her work because she knows what she has to give up in her life, in order to make it happen.
  • Making the time to go to the Industry Markets and to meet other designers.
  • That her Superpower is all about the details- in every aspect of her life.

Laura's website: Laura Lochrin Interiors

]]> 4500 no 186: Power Talk Friday: Anna Brockway- Chairish Updates to Improve Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/186-power-talk-friday-anna-brockway-chairish-updates-to-improve-your-interior-design-business Today, LuAnn is delighted to be getting together again with Anna Brockway, who first appeared on episode #79 of the show. Anna is the CEO and founder of Charish, which is also one of the show's sponsors. Anna is back today, as there are some crazy new updates to Charish that she and LuAnn want to share with you. Listen in to find out more about Charish and why it's important to you, as Interior Designers. Charish is an Online Marketplace, which was started about four years ago. Three months ago, it had over 150 000 items available for sale on the site and nearly 1 000 000 buyers and sellers that do business there every month. Recently they've introduced a really cool virtual app that Interior Designers are going bananas about! Listen in now and find out more about Anna's really fun and fast growing business. If you're new to the show, please go back and listen to episode #79, to get the full story of how Anna started Charish and everything else that you need to know about it.   Today, Anna talks to LuAnn about: A quick run down of what Charish is and how it helps Interior Designers with their businesses. That the transactions at Charish are similar to those on e-Bay. The delivery service that Charish provides. The advantages of using Charish for Interior Designers. The 'cash back' discount benefit, for Interior Designers who use Charish. The new and exciting things that have been recently added to the Charish platform, making it an even better tool for the Design Trade to use. How the fantastic, new, 'try it before you buy it' virtual app works. That you can use the app to do design work on your iPhone. Amazing ways that you could use the app. The really large range of prices available at Charish. The Charish Pink Book- a digital pricing guide. Their version of the Kelly Blue Book. The environmental advantages to buying vintage furniture. The styles and trends that are available at Charish. The value points for used furniture. Pricing for either time or money. Links: Anna's website: https://www.chairish.com Fri, 02 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today, LuAnn is delighted to be getting together again with Anna Brockway, who first appeared on episode #79 of the show. Anna is the CEO and founder of Charish, which is also one of the show's sponsors. Anna is back today, as there are some crazy new... Today, LuAnn is delighted to be getting together again with Anna Brockway, who first appeared on episode #79 of the show. Anna is the CEO and founder of Charish, which is also one of the show's sponsors. Anna is back today, as there are some crazy new updates to Charish that she and LuAnn want to share with you. Listen in to find out more about Charish and why it's important to you, as Interior Designers. Charish is an Online Marketplace, which was started about four years ago. Three months ago, it had over 150 000 items available for sale on the site and nearly 1 000 000 buyers and sellers that do business there every month. Recently they've introduced a really cool virtual app that Interior Designers are going bananas about! Listen in now and find out more about Anna's really fun and fast growing business. If you're new to the show, please go back and listen to episode #79, to get the full story of how Anna started Charish and everything else that you need to know about it.   Today, Anna talks to LuAnn about: A quick run down of what Charish is and how it helps Interior Designers with their businesses. That the transactions at Charish are similar to those on e-Bay. The delivery service that Charish provides. The advantages of using Charish for Interior Designers. The 'cash back' discount benefit, for Interior Designers who use Charish. The new and exciting things that have been recently added to the Charish platform, making it an even better tool for the Design Trade to use. How the fantastic, new, 'try it before you buy it' virtual app works. That you can use the app to do design work on your iPhone. Amazing ways that you could use the app. The really large range of prices available at Charish. The Charish Pink Book- a digital pricing guide. Their version of the Kelly Blue Book. The environmental advantages to buying vintage furniture. The styles and trends that are available at Charish. The value points for used furniture. Pricing for either time or money. Links: Anna's website: https://www.chairish.com Today, LuAnn is delighted to be getting together again with Anna Brockway, who first appeared on episode #79 of the show. Anna is the CEO and founder of Charish, which is also one of the show's sponsors. Anna is back today, as there are some crazy new updates to Charish that she and LuAnn want to share with you. Listen in to find out more about Charish and why it's important to you, as Interior Designers.

Charish is an Online Marketplace, which was started about four years ago. Three months ago, it had over 150 000 items available for sale on the site and nearly 1 000 000 buyers and sellers that do business there every month. Recently they've introduced a really cool virtual app that Interior Designers are going bananas about! Listen in now and find out more about Anna's really fun and fast growing business. If you're new to the show, please go back and listen to episode #79, to get the full story of how Anna started Charish and everything else that you need to know about it.

 

Today, Anna talks to LuAnn about:

  • A quick run down of what Charish is and how it helps Interior Designers with their businesses.
  • That the transactions at Charish are similar to those on e-Bay.
  • The delivery service that Charish provides.
  • The advantages of using Charish for Interior Designers.
  • The 'cash back' discount benefit, for Interior Designers who use Charish.
  • The new and exciting things that have been recently added to the Charish platform, making it an even better tool for the Design Trade to use.
  • How the fantastic, new, 'try it before you buy it' virtual app works.
  • That you can use the app to do design work on your iPhone.
  • Amazing ways that you could use the app.
  • The really large range of prices available at Charish.
  • The Charish Pink Book- a digital pricing guide. Their version of the Kelly Blue Book.
  • The environmental advantages to buying vintage furniture.
  • The styles and trends that are available at Charish.
  • The value points for used furniture.
  • Pricing for either time or money.

Links:

Anna's website:

https://www.chairish.com

]]> 2092 no 185: Designerlebrity in the House! Interior Design Powerhouse Panel Talk http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/185-designerlebrity-in-the-house-interior-design-powerhouse-panel-talk Are you bummed because you weren't able to attend the amazing  Designerlebrity Event, which was held on the 17th of May at the gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City? If so, have no worries, because we have the full audio for the event, right here for you, on today's show. Listen in now, to catch this special presentation. The panel for the event included Barbara Viteri, a brilliant business woman and the Creator of Designerlebrity, Cheryl Eisen, the Founder of Interior Marketing Group, Mikel Welsch, the Principal of Mikel Welsch Design and Manuella Morreira, the co-founder of the really beautiful New York Ethan Allan location. Today's show starts off with LuAnn's private, pre-show interview of the four panelists. After that, we go straight into the live panel discussion, which happened in front of all the attendees. Listen in to find out more about this outstanding Designer  Event.   Some highlights include: Mikel gives some inside info on Harry Connick Jr – that he really is as sweet and authentic as he seems to be, on his show! Mikel gives a brief synopsis of working with Steve Harvey. What it's like for Cheryl Eisen to work on the show with Frederick. That Cheryl staged Bethany's apartment and it sold within twenty-four hours – for over asking! What it's like for Cheryl, working with networks and doing amazing work that just doesn't get spoken about. Cheryl talks about the freedom of not having to design for a client and why people come to her. What it's like for Manuella, to design with the challenge of people from every walk of life coming into her showroom, in the middle of Manhattan. How Manuella got to where she is today. LuAnn explains what a wonderful and unique person and the astute businesswoman that Barbara Viteri really is! How Barbara got to where she is today. Barbara explains about the hot topics and the potentials in her great, new Designerlebrity.com thing that she's doing for the design community. Being prepared to be lucky! Barbara, Cheryl and Manuella's struggles on the way up and how they've grown beyond them. LuAnn's encouragement for you to take time to listen to the voice inside you, which will never lead you wrong. How Designers can help Celebrity Designers and grow in the industry. If you're a Designer and you have something going on, share it with Barbara and she will put it out on the Designerlebrity Platform if it's noteworthy. Cheryl answers Facebook Live questions about what was involved in her re-invention of herself and how she got started with doing staging of homes. Barbara's definition of what epitomizes a Designerlebrity. What makes a 'potential'.   Links: Barbara's email: hbic@designerlebrity.com To be on LuAnn's mailing list, send a text to 444 999 and put the word designbiz in the message field. Go to LuAnn's website: www.windowworks-nj.com to see The Designerlebrity Event streamed live on Facebook, through Tastefully Inspired. (Go to the To The Trade Blog and you'll see a whole recap there.) You can also see all the pictures on the sites and blogs of all the others – Ethan Allen, Designerlebrity, and even Tastefully Inspired has a post about it. Wed, 31 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you bummed because you weren't able to attend the amazing  Designerlebrity Event, which was held on the 17th of May at the gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City? If so, have no worries, because we have the full audio for the event,... Are you bummed because you weren't able to attend the amazing  Designerlebrity Event, which was held on the 17th of May at the gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City? If so, have no worries, because we have the full audio for the event, right here for you, on today's show. Listen in now, to catch this special presentation. The panel for the event included Barbara Viteri, a brilliant business woman and the Creator of Designerlebrity, Cheryl Eisen, the Founder of Interior Marketing Group, Mikel Welsch, the Principal of Mikel Welsch Design and Manuella Morreira, the co-founder of the really beautiful New York Ethan Allan location. Today's show starts off with LuAnn's private, pre-show interview of the four panelists. After that, we go straight into the live panel discussion, which happened in front of all the attendees. Listen in to find out more about this outstanding Designer  Event.   Some highlights include: Mikel gives some inside info on Harry Connick Jr – that he really is as sweet and authentic as he seems to be, on his show! Mikel gives a brief synopsis of working with Steve Harvey. What it's like for Cheryl Eisen to work on the show with Frederick. That Cheryl staged Bethany's apartment and it sold within twenty-four hours – for over asking! What it's like for Cheryl, working with networks and doing amazing work that just doesn't get spoken about. Cheryl talks about the freedom of not having to design for a client and why people come to her. What it's like for Manuella, to design with the challenge of people from every walk of life coming into her showroom, in the middle of Manhattan. How Manuella got to where she is today. LuAnn explains what a wonderful and unique person and the astute businesswoman that Barbara Viteri really is! How Barbara got to where she is today. Barbara explains about the hot topics and the potentials in her great, new Designerlebrity.com thing that she's doing for the design community. Being prepared to be lucky! Barbara, Cheryl and Manuella's struggles on the way up and how they've grown beyond them. LuAnn's encouragement for you to take time to listen to the voice inside you, which will never lead you wrong. How Designers can help Celebrity Designers and grow in the industry. If you're a Designer and you have something going on, share it with Barbara and she will put it out on the Designerlebrity Platform if it's noteworthy. Cheryl answers Facebook Live questions about what was involved in her re-invention of herself and how she got started with doing staging of homes. Barbara's definition of what epitomizes a Designerlebrity. What makes a 'potential'.   Links: Barbara's email: hbic@designerlebrity.com To be on LuAnn's mailing list, send a text to 444 999 and put the word designbiz in the message field. Go to LuAnn's website: www.windowworks-nj.com to see The Designerlebrity Event streamed live on Facebook, through Tastefully Inspired. (Go to the To The Trade Blog and you'll see a whole recap there.) You can also see all the pictures on the sites and blogs of all the others – Ethan Allen, Designerlebrity, and even Tastefully Inspired has a post about it. Are you bummed because you weren't able to attend the amazing  Designerlebrity Event, which was held on the 17th of May at the gorgeous Ethan Allen Showroom in New York City? If so, have no worries, because we have the full audio for the event, right here for you, on today's show. Listen in now, to catch this special presentation.

The panel for the event included Barbara Viteri, a brilliant business woman and the Creator of Designerlebrity, Cheryl Eisen, the Founder of Interior Marketing Group, Mikel Welsch, the Principal of Mikel Welsch Design and Manuella Morreira, the co-founder of the really beautiful New York Ethan Allan location. Today's show starts off with LuAnn's private, pre-show interview of the four panelists. After that, we go straight into the live panel discussion, which happened in front of all the attendees. Listen in to find out more about this outstanding Designer  Event.

 

Some highlights include:

  • Mikel gives some inside info on Harry Connick Jr – that he really is as sweet and authentic as he seems to be, on his show!
  • Mikel gives a brief synopsis of working with Steve Harvey.
  • What it's like for Cheryl Eisen to work on the show with Frederick.
  • That Cheryl staged Bethany's apartment and it sold within twenty-four hours – for over asking!
  • What it's like for Cheryl, working with networks and doing amazing work that just doesn't get spoken about.
  • Cheryl talks about the freedom of not having to design for a client and why people come to her.
  • What it's like for Manuella, to design with the challenge of people from every walk of life coming into her showroom, in the middle of Manhattan.
  • How Manuella got to where she is today.
  • LuAnn explains what a wonderful and unique person and the astute businesswoman that Barbara Viteri really is!
  • How Barbara got to where she is today.
  • Barbara explains about the hot topics and the potentials in her great, new Designerlebrity.com thing that she's doing for the design community.
  • Being prepared to be lucky!
  • Barbara, Cheryl and Manuella's struggles on the way up and how they've grown beyond them.
  • LuAnn's encouragement for you to take time to listen to the voice inside you, which will never lead you wrong.
  • How Designers can help Celebrity Designers and grow in the industry.
  • If you're a Designer and you have something going on, share it with Barbara and she will put it out on the Designerlebrity Platform if it's noteworthy.
  • Cheryl answers Facebook Live questions about what was involved in her re-invention of herself and how she got started with doing staging of homes.
  • Barbara's definition of what epitomizes a Designerlebrity.
  • What makes a 'potential'.

 

Links:

Barbara's email: hbic@designerlebrity.com

To be on LuAnn's mailing list, send a text to 444 999 and put the word designbiz in the message field.

Go to LuAnn's website: www.windowworks-nj.com to see The Designerlebrity Event streamed live on Facebook, through Tastefully Inspired. (Go to the To The Trade Blog and you'll see a whole recap there.)

You can also see all the pictures on the sites and blogs of all the others – Ethan Allen, Designerlebrity, and even Tastefully Inspired has a post about it.

]]> 3498 no 184: Amber Lewis - Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/184-amber-lewis-important-business-tips-to-run-your-interior-design-firm Do you sometimes look around and wonder if there could be different, or perhaps better ways to run your business more efficiently? If so, take heart and don't despair. Amber Lewis is back on the show today and she knows where you're at and what you're going through because she's been there. Today, Amber and LuAnn will go a bit deeper into the business side of what Amber does. They talk about how she discovered this podcast last winter and that she signed up for Kimberley Seldon's courses, because of even Amber, with a firm as successful and as large as hers, still wonders if there could be a better way to run things more effectively. Listen in today, as Amber shares her advice and the things she's learned along the way.   Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about: Some of the things that she's struggled with and challenges that she's faced, in her business. How she had to fake it, to make it, in the beginning, when dealing with people that were way more professional and talented than she was. What it was that catapulted her into a level above her own, in the beginning. Being comfortable with evolving and knowing that your style could change often. Being firm in your convictions, if you trust your own style. That clients will tend to focus on your weakness if you let it show. Parenting and running a business. Figuring out invoicing in a way that makes sense to the client- it's everything! The importance of figuring out how to create a good contract. Studio Webware- Amber finds this to be an amazingly intuitive program. The importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm. How she really works really together with her whole team. That she understands and accepts that there will always be variables with the trade. That her organization takes overall responsibility for everything in a project. How she works very specifically with vendors and contractors. That client couldn't care less who's fault it is if there's a problem- It's your responsibility! Treating your job as if it's your business and learning as much as possible about all it's aspects if you intend starting out on your own, one day. That she's always learning, growing and being humbled. That there's always the human factor in business. Links: Amber's website: http://amberinteriordesign.com Amber's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/ Mon, 29 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Do you sometimes look around and wonder if there could be different, or perhaps better ways to run your business more efficiently? If so, take heart and don't despair. Amber Lewis is back on the show today and she knows where you're at and what you're... Do you sometimes look around and wonder if there could be different, or perhaps better ways to run your business more efficiently? If so, take heart and don't despair. Amber Lewis is back on the show today and she knows where you're at and what you're going through because she's been there. Today, Amber and LuAnn will go a bit deeper into the business side of what Amber does. They talk about how she discovered this podcast last winter and that she signed up for Kimberley Seldon's courses, because of even Amber, with a firm as successful and as large as hers, still wonders if there could be a better way to run things more effectively. Listen in today, as Amber shares her advice and the things she's learned along the way.   Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about: Some of the things that she's struggled with and challenges that she's faced, in her business. How she had to fake it, to make it, in the beginning, when dealing with people that were way more professional and talented than she was. What it was that catapulted her into a level above her own, in the beginning. Being comfortable with evolving and knowing that your style could change often. Being firm in your convictions, if you trust your own style. That clients will tend to focus on your weakness if you let it show. Parenting and running a business. Figuring out invoicing in a way that makes sense to the client- it's everything! The importance of figuring out how to create a good contract. Studio Webware- Amber finds this to be an amazingly intuitive program. The importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm. How she really works really together with her whole team. That she understands and accepts that there will always be variables with the trade. That her organization takes overall responsibility for everything in a project. How she works very specifically with vendors and contractors. That client couldn't care less who's fault it is if there's a problem- It's your responsibility! Treating your job as if it's your business and learning as much as possible about all it's aspects if you intend starting out on your own, one day. That she's always learning, growing and being humbled. That there's always the human factor in business. Links: Amber's website: http://amberinteriordesign.com Amber's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/ Do you sometimes look around and wonder if there could be different, or perhaps better ways to run your business more efficiently? If so, take heart and don't despair. Amber Lewis is back on the show today and she knows where you're at and what you're going through because she's been there. Today, Amber and LuAnn will go a bit deeper into the business side of what Amber does. They talk about how she discovered this podcast last winter and that she signed up for Kimberley Seldon's courses, because of even Amber, with a firm as successful and as large as hers, still wonders if there could be a better way to run things more effectively. Listen in today, as Amber shares her advice and the things she's learned along the way.

 

Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about:

  • Some of the things that she's struggled with and challenges that she's faced, in her business.
  • How she had to fake it, to make it, in the beginning, when dealing with people that were way more professional and talented than she was.
  • What it was that catapulted her into a level above her own, in the beginning.
  • Being comfortable with evolving and knowing that your style could change often.
  • Being firm in your convictions, if you trust your own style.
  • That clients will tend to focus on your weakness if you let it show.
  • Parenting and running a business.
  • Figuring out invoicing in a way that makes sense to the client- it's everything!
  • The importance of figuring out how to create a good contract.
  • Studio Webware- Amber finds this to be an amazingly intuitive program.
  • The importance of figuring out your system and the chain of command in your firm.
  • How she really works really together with her whole team.
  • That she understands and accepts that there will always be variables with the trade.
  • That her organization takes overall responsibility for everything in a project.
  • How she works very specifically with vendors and contractors.
  • That client couldn't care less who's fault it is if there's a problem- It's your responsibility!
  • Treating your job as if it's your business and learning as much as possible about all it's aspects if you intend starting out on your own, one day.
  • That she's always learning, growing and being humbled.
  • That there's always the human factor in business.

Links:

Amber's website: http://amberinteriordesign.com Amber's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/

]]> 5648 no 183: Power Talk Friday: Ranya Barrett- All About Interns for Your Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/183-power-talk-friday-ranya-barrett-all-about-interns-for-your-interior-design-business Do you realize how hard it can be to create a really successful experience for an intern in your business? LuAnn certainly does and this is one of the reasons that she asked Ranya Barrett to come onto the show today, to talk about the terrific Intern Program that she's set up at The House Of Funk. This program has both helped and developed the House Of Funk in the last year and the interns there have really benefited from the winning experience that Ranya has created for them. Listen in to find out more about Ranya's awesome Intern Program. For nearly a full year now, LuAnn has admired the enormous change and that Ranya, as a single individual, has brought to Sandra Funk's business. LuAnn has watched an extreme uplevel of their message, branding, marketing and focus since Ranya joined their firm in the Spring of 2016. Prior to that, Ranya was a Content Director, Writer, Editor and a Branding Consultant, with more than thirteen years in the industry. She's written and edited for Glamour Magazine, Glamour.com, Highlights Magazine and Scholastic Books.  Ranya has a B.FA in Theatre, from New York University Tisch School Of The Arts and before taking up her current position as the Development Director at The House Of Funk, she was the Content Director at CA Creative, a New York-based Digital Media Agency. Listen in now, to find out more about Ranya and her really creative ways with interns.   Today, Ranya talks to LuAnn about: That her Internship Program is an unpaid program, for school credit, so they cannot hire Interns if they're not getting school credit. Some creative ways to go about looking for the right Interns. Meeting the necessary criteria for the different colleges, when it comes to the credit requirements for the Interns. That The House of Funk have taken it upon themselves to have a Close Out Program with their Interns, where they write a letter of recommendation, highlighting the Intern's particular skills, of which they both keep a copy and send one to the Intern, to be used later, as a reference. The kinds of things that an Interior design Intern would need to turn into their school, at the end of a semester. The kinds of interns that The House Of Funk has had. The kinds tasks that Ranya has the Interns do. What prompted her to initiate her Internship Program in Sandra Funk's business and how those interns are a real benefit to the business. Tapping the skill sets of Graphic Design, Editorial or Video Interns, to your mutual benefit, in your business. That it's not really necessary to plan ahead, in order to have a productive workflow for the Interns in your business. How she manages situations where the Intern does not quite operate to the standard of quality that is required by the business. Using your instinct with Interns. Although you cannot expect to necessarily hire your awesome Intern, however, you might well be able to do that. How much time the Interns spend working in the business. Systems that she uses for monitoring the work of the Interns. The amount of time and guidance that's necessary for the Interns. That there will always be things that Interns can help you with, that will save you time and benefit them. The Six Points Of Law, regarding unpaid Internships. That Ranya takes in Interns for each semester. The number of applicants that usually apply for Internship and Ranya's advice for interviewing and vetting Interns, to find the right fit. That there will always be someone on your team, who could benefit from the assistance of an Intern. Fri, 26 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Do you realize how hard it can be to create a really successful experience for an intern in your business? LuAnn certainly does and this is one of the reasons that she asked Ranya Barrett to come onto the show today, to talk about the terrific Intern... Do you realize how hard it can be to create a really successful experience for an intern in your business? LuAnn certainly does and this is one of the reasons that she asked Ranya Barrett to come onto the show today, to talk about the terrific Intern Program that she's set up at The House Of Funk. This program has both helped and developed the House Of Funk in the last year and the interns there have really benefited from the winning experience that Ranya has created for them. Listen in to find out more about Ranya's awesome Intern Program. For nearly a full year now, LuAnn has admired the enormous change and that Ranya, as a single individual, has brought to Sandra Funk's business. LuAnn has watched an extreme uplevel of their message, branding, marketing and focus since Ranya joined their firm in the Spring of 2016. Prior to that, Ranya was a Content Director, Writer, Editor and a Branding Consultant, with more than thirteen years in the industry. She's written and edited for Glamour Magazine, Glamour.com, Highlights Magazine and Scholastic Books.  Ranya has a B.FA in Theatre, from New York University Tisch School Of The Arts and before taking up her current position as the Development Director at The House Of Funk, she was the Content Director at CA Creative, a New York-based Digital Media Agency. Listen in now, to find out more about Ranya and her really creative ways with interns.   Today, Ranya talks to LuAnn about: That her Internship Program is an unpaid program, for school credit, so they cannot hire Interns if they're not getting school credit. Some creative ways to go about looking for the right Interns. Meeting the necessary criteria for the different colleges, when it comes to the credit requirements for the Interns. That The House of Funk have taken it upon themselves to have a Close Out Program with their Interns, where they write a letter of recommendation, highlighting the Intern's particular skills, of which they both keep a copy and send one to the Intern, to be used later, as a reference. The kinds of things that an Interior design Intern would need to turn into their school, at the end of a semester. The kinds of interns that The House Of Funk has had. The kinds tasks that Ranya has the Interns do. What prompted her to initiate her Internship Program in Sandra Funk's business and how those interns are a real benefit to the business. Tapping the skill sets of Graphic Design, Editorial or Video Interns, to your mutual benefit, in your business. That it's not really necessary to plan ahead, in order to have a productive workflow for the Interns in your business. How she manages situations where the Intern does not quite operate to the standard of quality that is required by the business. Using your instinct with Interns. Although you cannot expect to necessarily hire your awesome Intern, however, you might well be able to do that. How much time the Interns spend working in the business. Systems that she uses for monitoring the work of the Interns. The amount of time and guidance that's necessary for the Interns. That there will always be things that Interns can help you with, that will save you time and benefit them. The Six Points Of Law, regarding unpaid Internships. That Ranya takes in Interns for each semester. The number of applicants that usually apply for Internship and Ranya's advice for interviewing and vetting Interns, to find the right fit. That there will always be someone on your team, who could benefit from the assistance of an Intern. Do you realize how hard it can be to create a really successful experience for an intern in your business? LuAnn certainly does and this is one of the reasons that she asked Ranya Barrett to come onto the show today, to talk about the terrific Intern Program that she's set up at The House Of Funk. This program has both helped and developed the House Of Funk in the last year and the interns there have really benefited from the winning experience that Ranya has created for them. Listen in to find out more about Ranya's awesome Intern Program.

For nearly a full year now, LuAnn has admired the enormous change and that Ranya, as a single individual, has brought to Sandra Funk's business. LuAnn has watched an extreme uplevel of their message, branding, marketing and focus since Ranya joined their firm in the Spring of 2016. Prior to that, Ranya was a Content Director, Writer, Editor and a Branding Consultant, with more than thirteen years in the industry. She's written and edited for Glamour Magazine, Glamour.com, Highlights Magazine and Scholastic Books.  Ranya has a B.FA in Theatre, from New York University Tisch School Of The Arts and before taking up her current position as the Development Director at The House Of Funk, she was the Content Director at CA Creative, a New York-based Digital Media Agency. Listen in now, to find out more about Ranya and her really creative ways with interns.

 

Today, Ranya talks to LuAnn about:

  • That her Internship Program is an unpaid program, for school credit, so they cannot hire Interns if they're not getting school credit.
  • Some creative ways to go about looking for the right Interns.
  • Meeting the necessary criteria for the different colleges, when it comes to the credit requirements for the Interns.
  • That The House of Funk have taken it upon themselves to have a Close Out Program with their Interns, where they write a letter of recommendation, highlighting the Intern's particular skills, of which they both keep a copy and send one to the Intern, to be used later, as a reference.
  • The kinds of things that an Interior design Intern would need to turn into their school, at the end of a semester.
  • The kinds of interns that The House Of Funk has had.
  • The kinds tasks that Ranya has the Interns do.
  • What prompted her to initiate her Internship Program in Sandra Funk's business and how those interns are a real benefit to the business.
  • Tapping the skill sets of Graphic Design, Editorial or Video Interns, to your mutual benefit, in your business.
  • That it's not really necessary to plan ahead, in order to have a productive workflow for the Interns in your business.
  • How she manages situations where the Intern does not quite operate to the standard of quality that is required by the business.
  • Using your instinct with Interns.
  • Although you cannot expect to necessarily hire your awesome Intern, however, you might well be able to do that.
  • How much time the Interns spend working in the business.
  • Systems that she uses for monitoring the work of the Interns.
  • The amount of time and guidance that's necessary for the Interns.
  • That there will always be things that Interns can help you with, that will save you time and benefit them.
  • The Six Points Of Law, regarding unpaid Internships.
  • That Ranya takes in Interns for each semester.
  • The number of applicants that usually apply for Internship and Ranya's advice for interviewing and vetting Interns, to find the right fit.
  • That there will always be someone on your team, who could benefit from the assistance of an Intern.
]]> 3869 no 182: Christie Leu- Christie Leu Interiors: Creating Your Own Mini Designer Summit http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/182-christie-leu-christie-leu-interiors-creating-your-own-mini-designer-summit Isn't it intriguing how we are sometimes lead to meeting certain people in strangely serendipitous ways?  Today's guest, Christie Leu, met LuAnn in a really fun and unusual way. Listen in to find out what brought these two ladies together and why LuAnn wanted to have Christie on the show today. Christie, originally from Ohio,  is the principal of Christie Leu Interiors in DC. She started out in her career as a working artist, participating in juried shows and selling her work through galleries, stores, and catalogs. However, after having completed some major renovations to a number of her own homes, she realized just how much she really loved every step involved in the Interior Design process. So she enrolled in Montgomery College when her children were in pre-school and she earned an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences in Interior Design, with a further specialization in Kitchen and Bath Design. Christie was a star student and she won the local version of the National Kitchen And Bath Design Competition and was also asked to serve on the Montgomery College Advisory Board for Interior Design. Listen in now to find out more about how Christie and her colleagues learn from each other and help one another to grow and develop their businesses.   Today, Christie and LuAnn talk about: The hysterical story about how Christie and LuAnn met at IWCE. What happened with Christie, Darcy Heather, Lisa Escabar and Jessie Cooney at a Gail Doby Design Summit Event and their fabulous Mini Summit that ensued from that. How their Mini Summit really helped them to get to know one another and gave them a real understanding of the reasoning process that people have. The background behind Christie Leu Interiors. How Fred Berns (#174) helped her to discover that she's probably the only Artist Triplet Mom Interior Designer in the country- and how that's lead her to give her clients a really fabulous experience! That her assistant (Hired from Craig's List) also has triplets- the same age as hers! How being the mom of triplets helped her with her design process. What she really gained from the role play, during the Mini Summit. Why LuAnn really has no problem in asking for the money. The question of a standard markup on all products. Using historical data to help to arrive at an appropriate markup on products. Options for clients around flat fees and markups. Having boundaries with flat fee contracts. The benefits of listening to good and relevant podcasts. The work they did with the 'Energy Person' who was brought to their Mini Summit. That Christie prefers meeting with clients few times - how she keeps things efficient, in order to do that. Christie's website: www.christieleuinteriors.com Wed, 24 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Isn't it intriguing how we are sometimes lead to meeting certain people in strangely serendipitous ways?  Today's guest, Christie Leu, met LuAnn in a really fun and unusual way. Listen in to find out what brought these two ladies together and why... Isn't it intriguing how we are sometimes lead to meeting certain people in strangely serendipitous ways?  Today's guest, Christie Leu, met LuAnn in a really fun and unusual way. Listen in to find out what brought these two ladies together and why LuAnn wanted to have Christie on the show today. Christie, originally from Ohio,  is the principal of Christie Leu Interiors in DC. She started out in her career as a working artist, participating in juried shows and selling her work through galleries, stores, and catalogs. However, after having completed some major renovations to a number of her own homes, she realized just how much she really loved every step involved in the Interior Design process. So she enrolled in Montgomery College when her children were in pre-school and she earned an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences in Interior Design, with a further specialization in Kitchen and Bath Design. Christie was a star student and she won the local version of the National Kitchen And Bath Design Competition and was also asked to serve on the Montgomery College Advisory Board for Interior Design. Listen in now to find out more about how Christie and her colleagues learn from each other and help one another to grow and develop their businesses.   Today, Christie and LuAnn talk about: The hysterical story about how Christie and LuAnn met at IWCE. What happened with Christie, Darcy Heather, Lisa Escabar and Jessie Cooney at a Gail Doby Design Summit Event and their fabulous Mini Summit that ensued from that. How their Mini Summit really helped them to get to know one another and gave them a real understanding of the reasoning process that people have. The background behind Christie Leu Interiors. How Fred Berns (#174) helped her to discover that she's probably the only Artist Triplet Mom Interior Designer in the country- and how that's lead her to give her clients a really fabulous experience! That her assistant (Hired from Craig's List) also has triplets- the same age as hers! How being the mom of triplets helped her with her design process. What she really gained from the role play, during the Mini Summit. Why LuAnn really has no problem in asking for the money. The question of a standard markup on all products. Using historical data to help to arrive at an appropriate markup on products. Options for clients around flat fees and markups. Having boundaries with flat fee contracts. The benefits of listening to good and relevant podcasts. The work they did with the 'Energy Person' who was brought to their Mini Summit. That Christie prefers meeting with clients few times - how she keeps things efficient, in order to do that. Christie's website: www.christieleuinteriors.com Isn't it intriguing how we are sometimes lead to meeting certain people in strangely serendipitous ways?  Today's guest, Christie Leu, met LuAnn in a really fun and unusual way. Listen in to find out what brought these two ladies together and why LuAnn wanted to have Christie on the show today.

Christie, originally from Ohio,  is the principal of Christie Leu Interiors in DC. She started out in her career as a working artist, participating in juried shows and selling her work through galleries, stores, and catalogs. However, after having completed some major renovations to a number of her own homes, she realized just how much she really loved every step involved in the Interior Design process. So she enrolled in Montgomery College when her children were in pre-school and she earned an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences in Interior Design, with a further specialization in Kitchen and Bath Design. Christie was a star student and she won the local version of the National Kitchen And Bath Design Competition and was also asked to serve on the Montgomery College Advisory Board for Interior Design. Listen in now to find out more about how Christie and her colleagues learn from each other and help one another to grow and develop their businesses.

 

Today, Christie and LuAnn talk about:

  • The hysterical story about how Christie and LuAnn met at IWCE.
  • What happened with Christie, Darcy Heather, Lisa Escabar and Jessie Cooney at a Gail Doby Design Summit Event and their fabulous Mini Summit that ensued from that.
  • How their Mini Summit really helped them to get to know one another and gave them a real understanding of the reasoning process that people have.
  • The background behind Christie Leu Interiors.
  • How Fred Berns (#174) helped her to discover that she's probably the only Artist Triplet Mom Interior Designer in the country- and how that's lead her to give her clients a really fabulous experience!
  • That her assistant (Hired from Craig's List) also has triplets- the same age as hers!
  • How being the mom of triplets helped her with her design process.
  • What she really gained from the role play, during the Mini Summit.
  • Why LuAnn really has no problem in asking for the money.
  • The question of a standard markup on all products.
  • Using historical data to help to arrive at an appropriate markup on products.
  • Options for clients around flat fees and markups.
  • Having boundaries with flat fee contracts.
  • The benefits of listening to good and relevant podcasts.
  • The work they did with the 'Energy Person' who was brought to their Mini Summit.
  • That Christie prefers meeting with clients few times - how she keeps things efficient, in order to do that.

Christie's website:

www.christieleuinteriors.com

]]> 3172 no 181: Angela Rasmussen- Principal of H2H Design+Build: How Vision and Intention Built an Award Winning Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/181-angela-rasmussen-principal-of-h2h-designbuild-how-vision-and-intention-built-an-award-winning-firm Get ready for today's show, with Angela Rassmussen of H2H design Plus Build, in San Jose, California. Angela is the definition of a go-getter and she's a firecracker, so LuAnn says that you may want to strap on your seat belt for this interview! Listen in and prepare yourself to be blown away! H2H Design plus Build is a really fun and dynamic firm, which was started in 2009 by Matt and Angela Rassmussen, specializing in convenient all in one service, from kitchen and bathroom, to master suites and additions. Today, H2H has become known, both locally and nationally, as an award winning Design Plus Build firm. Some of their awards include those from prestigious associations like NARI, NKBA, and HGTD, to name just a few. At H2H Design Plus Build, the focus is on a no-nonsense approach to bringing the best Design Solutions and Remodelling Services. Their service is turnkey and they are set apart from general contractors and other design plus build firms because they take care of every aspect of your renovation. Listen in now, to find out more about the firm that Matt and Angela started, with the intention to change the game in the Construction Industry.   Today, Angela talks to LuAnn about: How she and Matt decided to start their business. Her success while at Design school, being an A+ student and getting onto Dean's List. How She and Matt just clicked when they met, both emotionally and business-wise. Their roles in the business when they first started out. How they started out slowly and built up, one job on top of the next. There really noteworthy early projects. How she implemented what she learned at school immediately, in the business. The growth and management of their team, over the years. The challenge of leading a team really well. Organization- her priority. What her ideal project looks like, from start to finish. The evolution of their company from kitchens and bathrooms, to bigger projects. That they handle every aspect of renovation, down to the appliances and finishes. Why their demographic market is more geared to renovation than building. The fun new cutting edge Home Automation Technology. The benefits of hiring professionals. Buildertrend- Their really good Track Your Project Their new design studio, opening in the next couple of months. Their other goals for the future. Angela's website: https://h2hpro.com   Mon, 22 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Get ready for today's show, with Angela Rassmussen of H2H design Plus Build, in San Jose, California. Angela is the definition of a go-getter and she's a firecracker, so LuAnn says that you may want to strap on your seat belt for this interview!... Get ready for today's show, with Angela Rassmussen of H2H design Plus Build, in San Jose, California. Angela is the definition of a go-getter and she's a firecracker, so LuAnn says that you may want to strap on your seat belt for this interview! Listen in and prepare yourself to be blown away! H2H Design plus Build is a really fun and dynamic firm, which was started in 2009 by Matt and Angela Rassmussen, specializing in convenient all in one service, from kitchen and bathroom, to master suites and additions. Today, H2H has become known, both locally and nationally, as an award winning Design Plus Build firm. Some of their awards include those from prestigious associations like NARI, NKBA, and HGTD, to name just a few. At H2H Design Plus Build, the focus is on a no-nonsense approach to bringing the best Design Solutions and Remodelling Services. Their service is turnkey and they are set apart from general contractors and other design plus build firms because they take care of every aspect of your renovation. Listen in now, to find out more about the firm that Matt and Angela started, with the intention to change the game in the Construction Industry.   Today, Angela talks to LuAnn about: How she and Matt decided to start their business. Her success while at Design school, being an A+ student and getting onto Dean's List. How She and Matt just clicked when they met, both emotionally and business-wise. Their roles in the business when they first started out. How they started out slowly and built up, one job on top of the next. There really noteworthy early projects. How she implemented what she learned at school immediately, in the business. The growth and management of their team, over the years. The challenge of leading a team really well. Organization- her priority. What her ideal project looks like, from start to finish. The evolution of their company from kitchens and bathrooms, to bigger projects. That they handle every aspect of renovation, down to the appliances and finishes. Why their demographic market is more geared to renovation than building. The fun new cutting edge Home Automation Technology. The benefits of hiring professionals. Buildertrend- Their really good Track Your Project Their new design studio, opening in the next couple of months. Their other goals for the future. Angela's website: https://h2hpro.com   Get ready for today's show, with Angela Rassmussen of H2H design Plus Build, in San Jose, California. Angela is the definition of a go-getter and she's a firecracker, so LuAnn says that you may want to strap on your seat belt for this interview! Listen in and prepare yourself to be blown away!

H2H Design plus Build is a really fun and dynamic firm, which was started in 2009 by Matt and Angela Rassmussen, specializing in convenient all in one service, from kitchen and bathroom, to master suites and additions. Today, H2H has become known, both locally and nationally, as an award winning Design Plus Build firm. Some of their awards include those from prestigious associations like NARI, NKBA, and HGTD, to name just a few. At H2H Design Plus Build, the focus is on a no-nonsense approach to bringing the best Design Solutions and Remodelling Services. Their service is turnkey and they are set apart from general contractors and other design plus build firms because they take care of every aspect of your renovation. Listen in now, to find out more about the firm that Matt and Angela started, with the intention to change the game in the Construction Industry.

 

Today, Angela talks to LuAnn about:

  • How she and Matt decided to start their business.
  • Her success while at Design school, being an A+ student and getting onto Dean's List.
  • How She and Matt just clicked when they met, both emotionally and business-wise.
  • Their roles in the business when they first started out.
  • How they started out slowly and built up, one job on top of the next.
  • There really noteworthy early projects.
  • How she implemented what she learned at school immediately, in the business.
  • The growth and management of their team, over the years.
  • The challenge of leading a team really well.
  • Organization- her priority.
  • What her ideal project looks like, from start to finish.
  • The evolution of their company from kitchens and bathrooms, to bigger projects.
  • That they handle every aspect of renovation, down to the appliances and finishes.
  • Why their demographic market is more geared to renovation than building.
  • The fun new cutting edge Home Automation Technology.
  • The benefits of hiring professionals.
  • Buildertrend- Their really good Track Your Project
  • Their new design studio, opening in the next couple of months.

Their other goals for the future.

Angela's website: https://h2hpro.com

 

]]> 4356 no 180: Power Talk Friday: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why it Matters to You http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/180-power-talk-friday-michele-williams-talks-about-profit-first-and-why-it-matters-to-you If you'd like to learn about the concept of Profit First and find out how you can really benefit from using it in your Design Business, you will gain a lot from today's Power Talk Friday with Michele Williams, one of the very few certified Profit First Coaches in the United States. LuAnn loves the idea of Profit First and she really wanted to bring it to the Interior Design community after hearing Mike Michalowicz talking about it on The Biz Chicks Podcast. So she asked Michele, who has been interviewed on the show once before, (#137) to come back and explain the concept. Listen in to find out more. Michele is a truly gifted Business Coach. Before becoming a coach, she worked in the Financial Software Industry and ran a business as a Soft Window Treatment Fabricator. She has a BS in Business Administration and a diploma in Christian Life Coaching as well as her Profit First certification. Listen in now, to find out all you need to know about Profit First. Today, Michele talks to LuAnn about:   What Profit First is all about and how it works. How Michele initially got going with Profit First. Why so many designers really need Profit First for their business. Bookkeepers and accountants are amazing, however, they are only going to work with the figures that the business owner gives them. How Profit First can help business owners understand how much money they really have available for themselves. How Profit First's view of profit differs from that of GAPS. That Profit First doesn't change the way you're doing your accounting, it changes the bank accounts that money gets allocated to. That Profit First changes the way that you're making your spending decisions. Some of the terms that are used by Profit First and what they refer to. What is meant by Real Revenue? That you have to sell the right product to the right person at the right price and then you need to manage the money. That it's not enough to build top line if you're spending all the money. Parkinson's Law, human nature and why you take profit first. That being honest and clear about your figures is really important. The benefit of moving money out to separate bank accounts, for your financial security. Your five main accounts- with Profit First. That staying consistent is key for this to work. Where a lot of business owners tend to get into trouble. That Profit First helps you move from cash flow negative to cash flow neutral, to cash flow positive. How Profit first can help you out of a hole, if you're in debt and willing to do the work. The beauty in Profit First working on percentages, for the natural ebbs and flows of your business. An instant assessment that you can do now, for your business. Owning your numbers, a bit at a time. Pricing for value and not to cover your needs.   Links: Michele's website: www.scarletthreadconsulting.com Michele's email: michele@scarletthreadconsulting.com Michele on Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Your Coupon Code for 10% off Michele's Passion For Profit online course: WDB10 Resource: Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz is available from Amazon, or other good book stores. Fri, 19 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you'd like to learn about the concept of Profit First and find out how you can really benefit from using it in your Design Business, you will gain a lot from today's Power Talk Friday with Michele Williams, one of the very few certified Profit... If you'd like to learn about the concept of Profit First and find out how you can really benefit from using it in your Design Business, you will gain a lot from today's Power Talk Friday with Michele Williams, one of the very few certified Profit First Coaches in the United States. LuAnn loves the idea of Profit First and she really wanted to bring it to the Interior Design community after hearing Mike Michalowicz talking about it on The Biz Chicks Podcast. So she asked Michele, who has been interviewed on the show once before, (#137) to come back and explain the concept. Listen in to find out more. Michele is a truly gifted Business Coach. Before becoming a coach, she worked in the Financial Software Industry and ran a business as a Soft Window Treatment Fabricator. She has a BS in Business Administration and a diploma in Christian Life Coaching as well as her Profit First certification. Listen in now, to find out all you need to know about Profit First. Today, Michele talks to LuAnn about:   What Profit First is all about and how it works. How Michele initially got going with Profit First. Why so many designers really need Profit First for their business. Bookkeepers and accountants are amazing, however, they are only going to work with the figures that the business owner gives them. How Profit First can help business owners understand how much money they really have available for themselves. How Profit First's view of profit differs from that of GAPS. That Profit First doesn't change the way you're doing your accounting, it changes the bank accounts that money gets allocated to. That Profit First changes the way that you're making your spending decisions. Some of the terms that are used by Profit First and what they refer to. What is meant by Real Revenue? That you have to sell the right product to the right person at the right price and then you need to manage the money. That it's not enough to build top line if you're spending all the money. Parkinson's Law, human nature and why you take profit first. That being honest and clear about your figures is really important. The benefit of moving money out to separate bank accounts, for your financial security. Your five main accounts- with Profit First. That staying consistent is key for this to work. Where a lot of business owners tend to get into trouble. That Profit First helps you move from cash flow negative to cash flow neutral, to cash flow positive. How Profit first can help you out of a hole, if you're in debt and willing to do the work. The beauty in Profit First working on percentages, for the natural ebbs and flows of your business. An instant assessment that you can do now, for your business. Owning your numbers, a bit at a time. Pricing for value and not to cover your needs.   Links: Michele's website: www.scarletthreadconsulting.com Michele's email: michele@scarletthreadconsulting.com Michele on Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Your Coupon Code for 10% off Michele's Passion For Profit online course: WDB10 Resource: Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz is available from Amazon, or other good book stores. If you'd like to learn about the concept of Profit First and find out how you can really benefit from using it in your Design Business, you will gain a lot from today's Power Talk Friday with Michele Williams, one of the very few certified Profit First Coaches in the United States. LuAnn loves the idea of Profit First and she really wanted to bring it to the Interior Design community after hearing Mike Michalowicz talking about it on The Biz Chicks Podcast. So she asked Michele, who has been interviewed on the show once before, (#137) to come back and explain the concept. Listen in to find out more.

Michele is a truly gifted Business Coach. Before becoming a coach, she worked in the Financial Software Industry and ran a business as a Soft Window Treatment Fabricator. She has a BS in Business Administration and a diploma in Christian Life Coaching as well as her Profit First certification. Listen in now, to find out all you need to know about Profit First.

Today, Michele talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • What Profit First is all about and how it works.
  • How Michele initially got going with Profit First.
  • Why so many designers really need Profit First for their business.
  • Bookkeepers and accountants are amazing, however, they are only going to work with the figures that the business owner gives them.
  • How Profit First can help business owners understand how much money they really have available for themselves.
  • How Profit First's view of profit differs from that of GAPS.
  • That Profit First doesn't change the way you're doing your accounting, it changes the bank accounts that money gets allocated to.
  • That Profit First changes the way that you're making your spending decisions.
  • Some of the terms that are used by Profit First and what they refer to.
  • What is meant by Real Revenue?
  • That you have to sell the right product to the right person at the right price and then you need to manage the money.
  • That it's not enough to build top line if you're spending all the money.
  • Parkinson's Law, human nature and why you take profit first.
  • That being honest and clear about your figures is really important.
  • The benefit of moving money out to separate bank accounts, for your financial security.
  • Your five main accounts- with Profit First.
  • That staying consistent is key for this to work.
  • Where a lot of business owners tend to get into trouble.
  • That Profit First helps you move from cash flow negative to cash flow neutral, to cash flow positive.
  • How Profit first can help you out of a hole, if you're in debt and willing to do the work.
  • The beauty in Profit First working on percentages, for the natural ebbs and flows of your business.
  • An instant assessment that you can do now, for your business.
  • Owning your numbers, a bit at a time.
  • Pricing for value and not to cover your needs.

 

Links:

Michele's website: www.scarletthreadconsulting.com

Michele's email: michele@scarletthreadconsulting.com

Michele on Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting

Your Coupon Code for 10% off Michele's Passion For Profit online course: WDB10

Resource:

Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz is available from Amazon, or other good book stores.

]]> 4366 no 179: Lynn K. Leonidas- Establish Your Intentions & Create a Successful Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/179-lynn-k-leonidas-establish-your-intentions-create-a-successful-interior-design-firm The guest on today's show is Lynn Leonidas, the really intentional principal of Lynn K. Leonidas Design and Decoration, in the San Francisco Bay Area. LuAnn had quite an 'aha moment' when she first started talking to her, as she suddenly realized that Lynn had achieved some really awesome things and has been published in some truly notable places, after only running her own firm for two years! Listen in to find about the really remarkable way that Lynn launched her business. Lynn takes particular pride in her relationships with her vendors, which she says comes from having a contractor father, who taught her all about building techniques and materials. Lynn has a degree in Interior Design and Architecture and another in English Language and Literature.  Her work has been featured in Sunset, Domino, Lonny, Rue and also in Refinery 29. Prior to starting her own business, Lynn worked in Interior Design in the Bay Area for ten years. She first worked at The Workroom for two years, doing window coverings, soft furnishings, and upholstery. This is where she says that she probably got the best education for doing what she does now. After that, she became a Project Manager at The Workroom and then after that, she did Project Management for a couple of other designers, before striking out, on her own. Join LuAnn and Lynn now and find out how Lynn intentionally set out to achieve her success.   Today, Lynn talks to LuAnn about: How she's been able to achieve so much in only two years. Her strategy, once she knew that the article about her was coming out in Domino Magazine, in six months time. The Consultant (Christa Cooper Communications) and Business Coach (Sarah, of Anchor and Orbit) who really encouraged her to go out on her own. How she landed a featured in Domino Magazine, before even going out on her own! What she did to be prepared, after deciding to start her business. How she started out, using a friend's network, before having a portfolio to show people. The great opportunity to do a gut renovation, that presented itself to her, as she was starting out. How her Business Consultant helped her to develop her dream and business plan and to decide about the kind of work that she really wanted to take on. How she handled the clients who were not able to meet her budget requirements. How she's evolved to being totally comfortable with talking openly to people about their decorating budgets. Her past experience with Project Managing and with Bookkeeping, and how these have really helped her in her own business. Her experience with working in editorial and how it helped her later, as a designer, to understand the fits for the various publications. The importance of doing the research and getting to know the target market of each publication. How she determines which projects are portfolio-worthy. The roles of her two employees. How she promotes her business and gets her name out there. Using a vision board to create inspiration, when your portfolio is still small. Some tips to gain confidence, when starting out as a designer. Her opinion about working for free, for friends or family, when starting out. That transparency is a huge part of how she runs her business. Her plans for the month of May, and some of her short-term plans for the future. The changes in her business model that Lynn is planning.  Links: Website: http://lynnkleonidas.com/   Wed, 17 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Lynn Leonidas, the really intentional principal of Lynn K. Leonidas Design and Decoration, in the San Francisco Bay Area. LuAnn had quite an 'aha moment' when she first started talking to her, as she suddenly realized that... The guest on today's show is Lynn Leonidas, the really intentional principal of Lynn K. Leonidas Design and Decoration, in the San Francisco Bay Area. LuAnn had quite an 'aha moment' when she first started talking to her, as she suddenly realized that Lynn had achieved some really awesome things and has been published in some truly notable places, after only running her own firm for two years! Listen in to find about the really remarkable way that Lynn launched her business. Lynn takes particular pride in her relationships with her vendors, which she says comes from having a contractor father, who taught her all about building techniques and materials. Lynn has a degree in Interior Design and Architecture and another in English Language and Literature.  Her work has been featured in Sunset, Domino, Lonny, Rue and also in Refinery 29. Prior to starting her own business, Lynn worked in Interior Design in the Bay Area for ten years. She first worked at The Workroom for two years, doing window coverings, soft furnishings, and upholstery. This is where she says that she probably got the best education for doing what she does now. After that, she became a Project Manager at The Workroom and then after that, she did Project Management for a couple of other designers, before striking out, on her own. Join LuAnn and Lynn now and find out how Lynn intentionally set out to achieve her success.   Today, Lynn talks to LuAnn about: How she's been able to achieve so much in only two years. Her strategy, once she knew that the article about her was coming out in Domino Magazine, in six months time. The Consultant (Christa Cooper Communications) and Business Coach (Sarah, of Anchor and Orbit) who really encouraged her to go out on her own. How she landed a featured in Domino Magazine, before even going out on her own! What she did to be prepared, after deciding to start her business. How she started out, using a friend's network, before having a portfolio to show people. The great opportunity to do a gut renovation, that presented itself to her, as she was starting out. How her Business Consultant helped her to develop her dream and business plan and to decide about the kind of work that she really wanted to take on. How she handled the clients who were not able to meet her budget requirements. How she's evolved to being totally comfortable with talking openly to people about their decorating budgets. Her past experience with Project Managing and with Bookkeeping, and how these have really helped her in her own business. Her experience with working in editorial and how it helped her later, as a designer, to understand the fits for the various publications. The importance of doing the research and getting to know the target market of each publication. How she determines which projects are portfolio-worthy. The roles of her two employees. How she promotes her business and gets her name out there. Using a vision board to create inspiration, when your portfolio is still small. Some tips to gain confidence, when starting out as a designer. Her opinion about working for free, for friends or family, when starting out. That transparency is a huge part of how she runs her business. Her plans for the month of May, and some of her short-term plans for the future. The changes in her business model that Lynn is planning.  Links: Website: http://lynnkleonidas.com/   The guest on today's show is Lynn Leonidas, the really intentional principal of Lynn K. Leonidas Design and Decoration, in the San Francisco Bay Area. LuAnn had quite an 'aha moment' when she first started talking to her, as she suddenly realized that Lynn had achieved some really awesome things and has been published in some truly notable places, after only running her own firm for two years! Listen in to find about the really remarkable way that Lynn launched her business.

Lynn takes particular pride in her relationships with her vendors, which she says comes from having a contractor father, who taught her all about building techniques and materials. Lynn has a degree in Interior Design and Architecture and another in English Language and Literature.  Her work has been featured in Sunset, Domino, Lonny, Rue and also in Refinery 29. Prior to starting her own business, Lynn worked in Interior Design in the Bay Area for ten years. She first worked at The Workroom for two years, doing window coverings, soft furnishings, and upholstery. This is where she says that she probably got the best education for doing what she does now. After that, she became a Project Manager at The Workroom and then after that, she did Project Management for a couple of other designers, before striking out, on her own. Join LuAnn and Lynn now and find out how Lynn intentionally set out to achieve her success.

 

Today, Lynn talks to LuAnn about:

  • How she's been able to achieve so much in only two years.
  • Her strategy, once she knew that the article about her was coming out in Domino Magazine, in six months time.
  • The Consultant (Christa Cooper Communications) and Business Coach (Sarah, of Anchor and Orbit) who really encouraged her to go out on her own.
  • How she landed a featured in Domino Magazine, before even going out on her own!
  • What she did to be prepared, after deciding to start her business.
  • How she started out, using a friend's network, before having a portfolio to show people.
  • The great opportunity to do a gut renovation, that presented itself to her, as she was starting out.
  • How her Business Consultant helped her to develop her dream and business plan and to decide about the kind of work that she really wanted to take on.
  • How she handled the clients who were not able to meet her budget requirements.
  • How she's evolved to being totally comfortable with talking openly to people about their decorating budgets.
  • Her past experience with Project Managing and with Bookkeeping, and how these have really helped her in her own business.
  • Her experience with working in editorial and how it helped her later, as a designer, to understand the fits for the various publications.
  • The importance of doing the research and getting to know the target market of each publication.
  • How she determines which projects are portfolio-worthy.
  • The roles of her two employees.
  • How she promotes her business and gets her name out there.
  • Using a vision board to create inspiration, when your portfolio is still small.
  • Some tips to gain confidence, when starting out as a designer.
  • Her opinion about working for free, for friends or family, when starting out.
  • That transparency is a huge part of how she runs her business.
  • Her plans for the month of May, and some of her short-term plans for the future.
  • The changes in her business model that Lynn is planning.

 Links:

Website: http://lynnkleonidas.com/

 

]]> 4314 no 178: Monique Duarte - 8 Key Steps to Running a Profitable Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/178-monique-duarte-8-key-steps-to-running-a-profitable-interior-design-business The guest on today's show is Monique Duarte. She's a brilliant business person and the founder and principal of Duarte Decor in New Jersey and the founder of Duarte Consulting, where she coaches Interior Decorators to help them to run their businesses better. Monique has traveled the world gathering inspiration and ideas for her design work. Listen in and find out more about Monique and the fabulous work that she does. Monique is an active member of The National Association of Professional Women of the International Interior Decorator's Association and she's also a member of the Certified Interior Decorator's Association. She holds a number of degrees, including a Career Degree in Interior Decorating and in Autocad Design, a Bachelor's in International Business, with a specialization in Economics and Marketing and a Master's Degree in Interactive and Direct marketing. Monique was awarded Woman Of The Year for Interior Decorating in New Jersey in 2013 by the NAPW and her work has been featured in Your Decorating Resource and in Moxy Magazine. As a Design Coach, Monique combines more than ten years of marketing experience with her design knowledge. She has had five years of experience in running her own seven-figure Interior Decorating business, which reached six figures in its very first year- while Monique was still working in her full-time job! Listen in now, to find out how Monique managed to achieve all of that!   Today, Monique talks to LuAnn about: How her ten years in advertising and marketing have informed the things she does to run her own business profitably. The really creative family that Monique comes from. How she realized that she had a gift for decorating, after buying her first home. Her first project, when she started her business as a side-hustle, eight years ago. Where and how she managed to find herself a mentor and how she cultivated a good working relationship with him. Why she really recommends finding a mentor or coach. That her mentor taught her that there is enough to go around. What the Local Experience and an International Experience, that she offers on her website, are all about. Her Eight Key Steps To Building A Profitable Design Business. The importance of figuring out who you are and who you want to work with. That she's always looking out for what's coming next and sharing that with designers. That the way you package and present what you have to offer is really important. That she always talks to clients upfront about how she works to set their expectations. Having a strong enough mindset to only work with the clients that really fit with you. The power of connection, networking with the right people and going to the right events. Submitting your design work for contests, as a marketing move. A book that Monique really recommends- Profit First by Mike Michalowicz.   Links: Monique's website: www.duarteconsulting.net   To request to join Monique's Facebook group, type 'Interiors Guide To Profitability' into the search box on Facebook, or you can do it via her website, above.   Resource: Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Mon, 15 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Monique Duarte. She's a brilliant business person and the founder and principal of Duarte Decor in New Jersey and the founder of Duarte Consulting, where she coaches Interior Decorators to help them to run their businesses... The guest on today's show is Monique Duarte. She's a brilliant business person and the founder and principal of Duarte Decor in New Jersey and the founder of Duarte Consulting, where she coaches Interior Decorators to help them to run their businesses better. Monique has traveled the world gathering inspiration and ideas for her design work. Listen in and find out more about Monique and the fabulous work that she does. Monique is an active member of The National Association of Professional Women of the International Interior Decorator's Association and she's also a member of the Certified Interior Decorator's Association. She holds a number of degrees, including a Career Degree in Interior Decorating and in Autocad Design, a Bachelor's in International Business, with a specialization in Economics and Marketing and a Master's Degree in Interactive and Direct marketing. Monique was awarded Woman Of The Year for Interior Decorating in New Jersey in 2013 by the NAPW and her work has been featured in Your Decorating Resource and in Moxy Magazine. As a Design Coach, Monique combines more than ten years of marketing experience with her design knowledge. She has had five years of experience in running her own seven-figure Interior Decorating business, which reached six figures in its very first year- while Monique was still working in her full-time job! Listen in now, to find out how Monique managed to achieve all of that!   Today, Monique talks to LuAnn about: How her ten years in advertising and marketing have informed the things she does to run her own business profitably. The really creative family that Monique comes from. How she realized that she had a gift for decorating, after buying her first home. Her first project, when she started her business as a side-hustle, eight years ago. Where and how she managed to find herself a mentor and how she cultivated a good working relationship with him. Why she really recommends finding a mentor or coach. That her mentor taught her that there is enough to go around. What the Local Experience and an International Experience, that she offers on her website, are all about. Her Eight Key Steps To Building A Profitable Design Business. The importance of figuring out who you are and who you want to work with. That she's always looking out for what's coming next and sharing that with designers. That the way you package and present what you have to offer is really important. That she always talks to clients upfront about how she works to set their expectations. Having a strong enough mindset to only work with the clients that really fit with you. The power of connection, networking with the right people and going to the right events. Submitting your design work for contests, as a marketing move. A book that Monique really recommends- Profit First by Mike Michalowicz.   Links: Monique's website: www.duarteconsulting.net   To request to join Monique's Facebook group, type 'Interiors Guide To Profitability' into the search box on Facebook, or you can do it via her website, above.   Resource: Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz The guest on today's show is Monique Duarte. She's a brilliant business person and the founder and principal of Duarte Decor in New Jersey and the founder of Duarte Consulting, where she coaches Interior Decorators to help them to run their businesses better. Monique has traveled the world gathering inspiration and ideas for her design work. Listen in and find out more about Monique and the fabulous work that she does.

Monique is an active member of The National Association of Professional Women of the International Interior Decorator's Association and she's also a member of the Certified Interior Decorator's Association. She holds a number of degrees, including a Career Degree in Interior Decorating and in Autocad Design, a Bachelor's in International Business, with a specialization in Economics and Marketing and a Master's Degree in Interactive and Direct marketing. Monique was awarded Woman Of The Year for Interior Decorating in New Jersey in 2013 by the NAPW and her work has been featured in Your Decorating Resource and in Moxy Magazine.

As a Design Coach, Monique combines more than ten years of marketing experience with her design knowledge. She has had five years of experience in running her own seven-figure Interior Decorating business, which reached six figures in its very first year- while Monique was still working in her full-time job! Listen in now, to find out how Monique managed to achieve all of that!

 

Today, Monique talks to LuAnn about:

  • How her ten years in advertising and marketing have informed the things she does to run her own business profitably.
  • The really creative family that Monique comes from.
  • How she realized that she had a gift for decorating, after buying her first home.
  • Her first project, when she started her business as a side-hustle, eight years ago.
  • Where and how she managed to find herself a mentor and how she cultivated a good working relationship with him.
  • Why she really recommends finding a mentor or coach.
  • That her mentor taught her that there is enough to go around.
  • What the Local Experience and an International Experience, that she offers on her website, are all about.
  • Her Eight Key Steps To Building A Profitable Design Business.
  • The importance of figuring out who you are and who you want to work with.
  • That she's always looking out for what's coming next and sharing that with designers.
  • That the way you package and present what you have to offer is really important.
  • That she always talks to clients upfront about how she works to set their expectations.
  • Having a strong enough mindset to only work with the clients that really fit with you.
  • The power of connection, networking with the right people and going to the right events.
  • Submitting your design work for contests, as a marketing move.
  • A book that Monique really recommends- Profit First by Mike Michalowicz.

 

Links:

Monique's website: www.duarteconsulting.net

 

To request to join Monique's Facebook group, type 'Interiors Guide To Profitability' into the search box on Facebook, or you can do it via her website, above.

 

Resource:

Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

]]> 4820 no 177: Power Talk Friday- Sarah Daniele, CEO of Mydoma Studio is back to tell us what’ s new for you at Mydoma Studio! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/177-power-talk-friday-sarah-daniele-ceo-of-mydoma-studio-is-back-to-tell-us-what-s-new-for-you-at-mydoma-studio The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Sarah Daniele, the CEO, and Co-founder of My Doma Studio, a sexy software which was built specifically for the Interior Design Industry. Sarah appeared on the show (#91) last November and then she became a sponsor for the podcast. LuAnn and her partners were all so truly impressed with the platform that Sarah has created that they actually invested in My Doma Studio, which is used by a lot of the Designers that LuAnn works with. Listen in to find out how My Doma Studio can really help you to keep a lot of balls in the air at the same time.   Sarah has a degree in Interior Design. She spent four or five years working for other Designers and then opened her own Design firm, with her focus on renovations, kitchens, and bathrooms. In episode #91 Sarah explains that while she was working for other Design Companies, she found no Project Management Systems in place at all, so Sarah, a highly intelligent, technical and organized person, developed her own system.  Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about some of the really cool things that have been happening with My Doma Studio. They have been featured recently in a number of publications- Editor At Large, Kitchen And Bath, Kitchen And Bath Design News, and Home Accents. Listen in now to find out more about Sarah's great system, which has really attracted a lot of well-earned buzzes lately!   Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about: The new things that are coming out with My Domo Studio. Sarah's recipe for growing and scaling your Design Business. What went into their latest, brand new version, based on feedback from Designers. Some of the things that the new version has, that's different from the original. How her program has been designed to really assist with easy collaboration. How unlikely it would be to accidentally, or inadvertently communicate with a client, using Sarah's system. The great advantages of her new system. The kind of communication that the system makes possible, for different projects. How this system makes for better organization with projects. How checklists can be used in context, within the system. That My Doma Studio has automatic updates. That you can try Sarah's system out for thirty days for free. Links: Sarah's website: https://www.mydomastudio.com Fri, 12 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Sarah Daniele, the CEO, and Co-founder of My Doma Studio, a sexy software which was built specifically for the Interior Design Industry. Sarah appeared on the show (#91) last November and then she became a... The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Sarah Daniele, the CEO, and Co-founder of My Doma Studio, a sexy software which was built specifically for the Interior Design Industry. Sarah appeared on the show (#91) last November and then she became a sponsor for the podcast. LuAnn and her partners were all so truly impressed with the platform that Sarah has created that they actually invested in My Doma Studio, which is used by a lot of the Designers that LuAnn works with. Listen in to find out how My Doma Studio can really help you to keep a lot of balls in the air at the same time.   Sarah has a degree in Interior Design. She spent four or five years working for other Designers and then opened her own Design firm, with her focus on renovations, kitchens, and bathrooms. In episode #91 Sarah explains that while she was working for other Design Companies, she found no Project Management Systems in place at all, so Sarah, a highly intelligent, technical and organized person, developed her own system.  Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about some of the really cool things that have been happening with My Doma Studio. They have been featured recently in a number of publications- Editor At Large, Kitchen And Bath, Kitchen And Bath Design News, and Home Accents. Listen in now to find out more about Sarah's great system, which has really attracted a lot of well-earned buzzes lately!   Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about: The new things that are coming out with My Domo Studio. Sarah's recipe for growing and scaling your Design Business. What went into their latest, brand new version, based on feedback from Designers. Some of the things that the new version has, that's different from the original. How her program has been designed to really assist with easy collaboration. How unlikely it would be to accidentally, or inadvertently communicate with a client, using Sarah's system. The great advantages of her new system. The kind of communication that the system makes possible, for different projects. How this system makes for better organization with projects. How checklists can be used in context, within the system. That My Doma Studio has automatic updates. That you can try Sarah's system out for thirty days for free. Links: Sarah's website: https://www.mydomastudio.com The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Sarah Daniele, the CEO, and Co-founder of My Doma Studio, a sexy software which was built specifically for the Interior Design Industry. Sarah appeared on the show (#91) last November and then she became a sponsor for the podcast. LuAnn and her partners were all so truly impressed with the platform that Sarah has created that they actually invested in My Doma Studio, which is used by a lot of the Designers that LuAnn works with. Listen in to find out how My Doma Studio can really help you to keep a lot of balls in the air at the same time.

 

Sarah has a degree in Interior Design. She spent four or five years working for other Designers and then opened her own Design firm, with her focus on renovations, kitchens, and bathrooms. In episode #91 Sarah explains that while she was working for other Design Companies, she found no Project Management Systems in place at all, so Sarah, a highly intelligent, technical and organized person, developed her own system.  Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about some of the really cool things that have been happening with My Doma Studio. They have been featured recently in a number of publications- Editor At Large, Kitchen And Bath, Kitchen And Bath Design News, and Home Accents. Listen in now to find out more about Sarah's great system, which has really attracted a lot of well-earned buzzes lately!

 

Today, Sarah talks to LuAnn about:

  • The new things that are coming out with My Domo Studio.
  • Sarah's recipe for growing and scaling your Design Business.
  • What went into their latest, brand new version, based on feedback from Designers.
  • Some of the things that the new version has, that's different from the original.
  • How her program has been designed to really assist with easy collaboration.
  • How unlikely it would be to accidentally, or inadvertently communicate with a client, using Sarah's system.
  • The great advantages of her new system.
  • The kind of communication that the system makes possible, for different projects.
  • How this system makes for better organization with projects.
  • How checklists can be used in context, within the system.
  • That My Doma Studio has automatic updates.
  • That you can try Sarah's system out for thirty days for free.

Links:

Sarah's website:

https://www.mydomastudio.com

]]> 1605 no 176: Pulp Design- Carolina Gentry & Beth Dotolo: Successful Video Marketing & How They Did It For Their Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/176-pulp-design-carolina-gentry-beth-dotolo-successful-video-marketing-how-they-did-it-for-their-firm If you're interested in hearing about innovative designers who are also really good at business, you're in for a treat! The guests today are Carolina Gentry and Beth Dotolo of Pulp Design. LuAnn really wanted to have them on her show. She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! Pulp Design has studios in both Seattle and in Dallas and their team has been recognized and published by Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Beth has received an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she was also named Best Designer in Dallas in 2011 and in 2012. Fashion Group International recognized her as a rising star in Interior Design and she's been named Dallas Design Glitteratti by Modern Luxury Magazine. Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now! Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now! Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton, and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now!   Today, LuAnn talks to Beth and Carolina about:  What went into creating their beautifully done videos. That they wanted to create videos that people can really relate to. How the videos really save them so much time. The steps that went into the creation of their video. What they wanted to communicate with their video. How long it took to film all their videos. How Carolina managed to overcome her camera shyness. How much they invested in making their video. How quickly they started making a return on their investment. How they started out with their company ten years ago. How they decided that they could work with a two hour time difference. The support group that they work with. That even though they work far apart, they all work as one unit. How Beth and Carolina work together on all the projects so that the client can get the best of both of them. That they think it really important to take some of their staff to Trade Shows. The fun stuff that they do for team building. The product line that they're developing as an exciting next step for their company. Beth and Carolina's really awesome relationship. Links: http://pulpdesignstudios.com Wed, 10 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you're interested in hearing about innovative designers who are also really good at business, you're in for a treat! The guests today are Carolina Gentry and Beth Dotolo of Pulp Design. LuAnn really wanted to have them on her show. She's been... If you're interested in hearing about innovative designers who are also really good at business, you're in for a treat! The guests today are Carolina Gentry and Beth Dotolo of Pulp Design. LuAnn really wanted to have them on her show. She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars! Pulp Design has studios in both Seattle and in Dallas and their team has been recognized and published by Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Beth has received an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she was also named Best Designer in Dallas in 2011 and in 2012. Fashion Group International recognized her as a rising star in Interior Design and she's been named Dallas Design Glitteratti by Modern Luxury Magazine. Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now! Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now! Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton, and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now!   Today, LuAnn talks to Beth and Carolina about:  What went into creating their beautifully done videos. That they wanted to create videos that people can really relate to. How the videos really save them so much time. The steps that went into the creation of their video. What they wanted to communicate with their video. How long it took to film all their videos. How Carolina managed to overcome her camera shyness. How much they invested in making their video. How quickly they started making a return on their investment. How they started out with their company ten years ago. How they decided that they could work with a two hour time difference. The support group that they work with. That even though they work far apart, they all work as one unit. How Beth and Carolina work together on all the projects so that the client can get the best of both of them. That they think it really important to take some of their staff to Trade Shows. The fun stuff that they do for team building. The product line that they're developing as an exciting next step for their company. Beth and Carolina's really awesome relationship. Links: http://pulpdesignstudios.com If you're interested in hearing about innovative designers who are also really good at business, you're in for a treat! The guests today are Carolina Gentry and Beth Dotolo of Pulp Design. LuAnn really wanted to have them on her show. She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars!

Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars!

She's been researching designers for the last year and a half and some of them have videos on their websites. Some of the videos are better than others, however, when she looked at those on Beth and Carolina's website, they were so good that she just wanted to keep on watching! She really enjoyed how their personalities come across in a subtle, yet distinctive way and also that their high regard for one another is very clear. Listen in and find out why LuAnn couldn't stop herself from falling in love with these two adorable rock stars!

Pulp Design has studios in both Seattle and in Dallas and their team has been recognized and published by Architectural Digest, The Traditional Home and New York Times Magazine. Beth has received an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she was also named Best Designer in Dallas in 2011 and in 2012. Fashion Group International recognized her as a rising star in Interior Design and she's been named Dallas Design Glitteratti by Modern Luxury Magazine. Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now!

Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now!

Carolina has had more than fifteen years of experience in Interior Design and in Project management, with her work including award-winning New Construction and Renovated projects in Hospitality, Residential and Multi-family. Some of her projects have been for high-end hospitality brands, like Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, Hilton, and Mariotte, with her projects spanning all the way from New York City to Asia. Carolina was also a recipient of an ASID Legacy Of Design Award and she's also been recognized as a rising star in Interior Design by Fashion Group International. LuAnn had so much fun talking to these ladies and she knows you're really going to enjoy today's episode. Listen in now!

 

Today, LuAnn talks to Beth and Carolina about: 

  • What went into creating their beautifully done videos.
  • That they wanted to create videos that people can really relate to.
  • How the videos really save them so much time.
  • The steps that went into the creation of their video.
  • What they wanted to communicate with their video.
  • How long it took to film all their videos.
  • How Carolina managed to overcome her camera shyness.
  • How much they invested in making their video.
  • How quickly they started making a return on their investment.
  • How they started out with their company ten years ago.
  • How they decided that they could work with a two hour time difference.
  • The support group that they work with.
  • That even though they work far apart, they all work as one unit.
  • How Beth and Carolina work together on all the projects so that the client can get the best of both of them.
  • That they think it really important to take some of their staff to Trade Shows.
  • The fun stuff that they do for team building.
  • The product line that they're developing as an exciting next step for their company.
  • Beth and Carolina's really awesome relationship.

Links:

http://pulpdesignstudios.com

]]> 4205 no 175: Kieffer Design Group - Reflections on How Judi Kieffer Built Her Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/175-keiffer-design-group-reflections-on-how-judi-kieffer-built-her-interior-design-business My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments. She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi! What you’ll hear in this episode: How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects How to find free top sheets in your local area The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE! The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool Clear practices for charging fees Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions Judi’s interest in green building products The recent surge in green products Advice Judi’s received that is still with her: Be absolutely true to your passion Honor yourself Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax Be transparent in communication What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats Resources: Find out more about Judi!  www.kiefferdesigngroup.com For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz” www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products) Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area Judi recommends the following books: ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt Mon, 08 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built... My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments. She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi! What you’ll hear in this episode: How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects How to find free top sheets in your local area The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE! The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool Clear practices for charging fees Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions Judi’s interest in green building products The recent surge in green products Advice Judi’s received that is still with her: Be absolutely true to your passion Honor yourself Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax Be transparent in communication What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats Resources: Find out more about Judi!  www.kiefferdesigngroup.com For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz” www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products) Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area Judi recommends the following books: ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt My guest today is Judi Kieffer, who has over 24 years’ experience in hospitality, luxury residential, and restaurant design. Her portfolio is full of top tier projects and satisfied clients. In our conversation, she shares advice about how she built and now manages her design firm in Boise, Idaho. Judi is involved as an advocate for the personal and professional development and for sustainable products and developments.

She participates in several local philanthropic and civic groups and is a mentor for women’s and children’s organizations. She was recently appointed as a spokesperson for the American Society of Interior Designers and is a certified Green Globe auditor. Her passions are yoga, fine wine, riding horses, hiking, and inspiring other designers to run more profitable and enjoyable businesses. Join me for this conversation with Judi!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How Judi’s career began, working for three different companies before opening her own firm
  • The benefits of experience, classes, and various job positions before going out on your own
  • What it’s like to build your own design firm in the beginning: cold calling, mailings, projects, and referrals
  • What the builder or architect needs to hear from the commercial designer: how our services can fit into your project
  • How to use directories for leads on upcoming commercial projects
  • How to find free top sheets in your local area
  • The benefits of long-term relationships in the design business
  • Judi’s recommendations for software, including Quickbooks, Studio Designer, and MORE!
  • The challenges as your business grows: having systems in place and using personality profiles as you add more people to your team
  • Day-to-day running the firm: journals and calendars
  • Judi’s superpower? Using the interior as a marketing tool
  • Clear practices for charging fees
  • Judi’s advice to a new designer with no portfolio: show your passion and excitement, have confidence, ask questions, and present solutions
  • Judi’s interest in green building products
  • The recent surge in green products
  • Advice Judi’s received that is still with her:
    • Be absolutely true to your passion
    • Honor yourself
    • Allow yourself time to breathe, renew, and relax
    • Be transparent in communication
  • What’s ahead for Judi? Hiring an office manager and hosting eco-glamping retreats

Resources:

Find out more about Judi!  www.kiefferdesigngroup.com

For the free WindowWorks newsletter, text 444-999 and enter “designbiz”

www.usgbc.org  (Find out more about green building products)

Search the GreenWorks or Green Standard group in your local area

Judi recommends the following books:

ECO-preneuring by John Ivanko

The Northwest Green Home Primer by K.L. Smith and Kathleen O’Brien

The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan

Women in Green by Kira Gould and Lance Hosey

Value Pricing for the Design Firm by Frank Stasiowski

A Guide to Principles and Practices for Interior Designers by Harry Sigel

Marketing and Selling Design Services by Mary V. Knackstedt

Interior Designers Business Handbook by Mary V. Knackstedt

]]> 4986 no 174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your "Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/174-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-own-your-only-word-tips-to-discover-yours The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger's Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger's Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your 'only', so listen in now and find out why it's so important.   Fred creates personal bio's and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today's show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.   Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:   Why it's so important for you to figure out your 'only'. How he helps designers to arrive at their 'only'. Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your 'only' phrase. How to be sure that you are really the 'only' one when making that claim. How to subtly modify your 'only phrase', if necessary. Using the word 'specializes' to better describe your 'only' and to differentiate yourself. That your 'only' doesn't have to be a big thing. How having an 'only' helps you to charge a higher fee. How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees. How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar. Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past. That it's often the small things that make you unique. Some examples of how you can incorporate your 'only phrase' into your bio, to make yourself memorable. Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart. His victory vocabulary. Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you'd like to work with towards you. That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers. 'Only' is not the only word, but it's the best one!   Links:   Fred's website: www.interiordesignbusiness.net This is where you will find Fred's The   Big Splash Little Cash Marketing Manual. Go to: www.biobriefing.com to sign up for Fred's promotional Bio Briefing Campaign. To telephone Fred: 303 589 3013 Fri, 05 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger's Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so... The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger's Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger's Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your 'only', so listen in now and find out why it's so important.   Fred creates personal bio's and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today's show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.   Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:   Why it's so important for you to figure out your 'only'. How he helps designers to arrive at their 'only'. Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your 'only' phrase. How to be sure that you are really the 'only' one when making that claim. How to subtly modify your 'only phrase', if necessary. Using the word 'specializes' to better describe your 'only' and to differentiate yourself. That your 'only' doesn't have to be a big thing. How having an 'only' helps you to charge a higher fee. How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees. How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar. Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past. That it's often the small things that make you unique. Some examples of how you can incorporate your 'only phrase' into your bio, to make yourself memorable. Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart. His victory vocabulary. Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you'd like to work with towards you. That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers. 'Only' is not the only word, but it's the best one!   Links:   Fred's website: www.interiordesignbusiness.net This is where you will find Fred's The   Big Splash Little Cash Marketing Manual. Go to: www.biobriefing.com to sign up for Fred's promotional Bio Briefing Campaign. To telephone Fred: 303 589 3013 The guest on today's Power Talk Friday is Fred Berns, the only Interior Design Industry Business Coach, and Speaker.  Fred was a Speaker at the Design Blogger's Conference, held in L.A. In March, where he spoke about how to create your bio, so this show is tagged onto the Design Blogger's Series. This is the fourth time that Fred has appeared on this show and LuAnn is really happy to have him back again because he always brings so much value. (He previously appeared on shows #22, #48 and#96.) Today, Fred will help you to figure out your 'only', so listen in now and find out why it's so important.

 

Fred creates personal bio's and other promotional materials for design professionals, worldwide. He has had more than twenty-five years of experience, training design professionals and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forums. He also offers a wide range of business coaching services, including his High-End Performance Coaching Program, his bio briefing and his website once over. Listen in to today's show to find out from Fred how you can really stand out in the marketplace.

 

Today, Fred talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • Why it's so important for you to figure out your 'only'.
  • How he helps designers to arrive at their 'only'.
  • Some categories to consider when trying to figure out your 'only' phrase.
  • How to be sure that you are really the 'only' one when making that claim.
  • How to subtly modify your 'only phrase', if necessary.
  • Using the word 'specializes' to better describe your 'only' and to differentiate yourself.
  • That your 'only' doesn't have to be a big thing.
  • How having an 'only' helps you to charge a higher fee.
  • How he helps people to draft letters to inform customers that they are raising their fees.
  • How educating people about your value helps to overcome their resistance to your charging top dollar.
  • Why he encourages you, as a designer, to highlight rather than hide your past.
  • That it's often the small things that make you unique.
  • Some examples of how you can incorporate your 'only phrase' into your bio, to make yourself memorable.
  • Ways for newly graduated designers to set themselves apart.
  • His victory vocabulary.
  • Using the law of attraction to draw the kinds of clients you'd like to work with towards you.
  • That the most financially successful designers are not necessarily the best designers.
  • 'Only' is not the only word, but it's the best one!

 

Links:

 

Fred's website: www.interiordesignbusiness.net This is where you will find Fred's The   Big Splash Little Cash Marketing Manual.

Go to: www.biobriefing.com to sign up for Fred's promotional Bio Briefing Campaign.

To telephone Fred: 303 589 3013

]]> 2398 no 173: Mabley Handler Interior Design Launches New Furniture Line with Kravet Inc http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/173-austin-handler-mabley-handler-interior-design-launches-new-furniture-line-with-kravet-inc If you'd like to know what it's like to be a successful Interior Designer in The Hampton's, you're going to enjoy today's show with LuAnn's guest, Austin Handler. Austin and his wife, Jennifer Mabely, are the principals of Mabely Handler Interior Design in The Hampton's. Listen in today, to find out about this leading design firm that has been featured many many times, in both magazines and on TV.   LuAnn does a lot of work herself, in The Hampton's. She says that it's like it's own little planet. On today's show, you will hear about Austin and Jennifer's fabulous projects there and the great success of  their Interior Design Business, which they started in The Hampton's in 2002 and also about their work which has been featured in numerous publications, including Hampton's Cottages and Gardens, Hampton's Magazine, Beach Magazine, Coastal Living,  Lux Interiors and Design, Ocean Home, Traditional Home, The New York times, The Daily News and the New York Post, along with News Day and NBC's LX TV, Open House, New York City, News 12 and The Discovery Channel.   Kravet Inc. recently launched their brand new line of furniture, which has been designed by Mabely Handler Interior Design. Listen in today, as Austin shares the back story on the creation and the execution of this truly gorgeous new line of furniture.   Today, Austin talks to LuAnn about:   What it's like, working as a designer in The Hampton's, where the design has its own feel and vibe. Finding the balance in design, between luxurious living and durability. What it was like, breaking into Interior Design in The Hampton's and breaking the stereotype of 'taking your designer with you'. When their room, which wasn't a feature room, in their first show house for Hampton's Cottages and Gardens Magazine was featured in The New York Times. How they came to develop The Hampton Aesthetic, their line of furniture with Kravet Inc. The kind of furniture in The Hampton Aesthetic line. Austin and Jennifer's initial meeting with Kravet Inc. about the furniture design and how they managed to convey their concepts and their vision, with clarity. The very well known Hampton's design style. How they set the scene, to create the right atmosphere, to sell The Hampton's Aesthetic furniture line to Cravet Inc. How they set a trend for creating coastal design collections. How they used certain fabrics and materials to give The Hampton Aesthetic maximum versatility. Why Kravet was always first on the list to make Jennifer's furniture. The incredible support that they got from the expert team at Kravet Inc., every step of the way. The pieces that they designed that didn't make the collection. The great value Austin and Jennifer found in the sharing of expertise with Kravet Inc. The great pleasure that it's been for Austin and Jennifer to work with Kravet. Austin's websites: http://www.mableyhandler.com http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/ www.curatedkravet.com Wed, 03 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you'd like to know what it's like to be a successful Interior Designer in The Hampton's, you're going to enjoy today's show with LuAnn's guest, Austin Handler. Austin and his wife, Jennifer Mabely, are the principals of Mabely Handler Interior... If you'd like to know what it's like to be a successful Interior Designer in The Hampton's, you're going to enjoy today's show with LuAnn's guest, Austin Handler. Austin and his wife, Jennifer Mabely, are the principals of Mabely Handler Interior Design in The Hampton's. Listen in today, to find out about this leading design firm that has been featured many many times, in both magazines and on TV.   LuAnn does a lot of work herself, in The Hampton's. She says that it's like it's own little planet. On today's show, you will hear about Austin and Jennifer's fabulous projects there and the great success of  their Interior Design Business, which they started in The Hampton's in 2002 and also about their work which has been featured in numerous publications, including Hampton's Cottages and Gardens, Hampton's Magazine, Beach Magazine, Coastal Living,  Lux Interiors and Design, Ocean Home, Traditional Home, The New York times, The Daily News and the New York Post, along with News Day and NBC's LX TV, Open House, New York City, News 12 and The Discovery Channel.   Kravet Inc. recently launched their brand new line of furniture, which has been designed by Mabely Handler Interior Design. Listen in today, as Austin shares the back story on the creation and the execution of this truly gorgeous new line of furniture.   Today, Austin talks to LuAnn about:   What it's like, working as a designer in The Hampton's, where the design has its own feel and vibe. Finding the balance in design, between luxurious living and durability. What it was like, breaking into Interior Design in The Hampton's and breaking the stereotype of 'taking your designer with you'. When their room, which wasn't a feature room, in their first show house for Hampton's Cottages and Gardens Magazine was featured in The New York Times. How they came to develop The Hampton Aesthetic, their line of furniture with Kravet Inc. The kind of furniture in The Hampton Aesthetic line. Austin and Jennifer's initial meeting with Kravet Inc. about the furniture design and how they managed to convey their concepts and their vision, with clarity. The very well known Hampton's design style. How they set the scene, to create the right atmosphere, to sell The Hampton's Aesthetic furniture line to Cravet Inc. How they set a trend for creating coastal design collections. How they used certain fabrics and materials to give The Hampton Aesthetic maximum versatility. Why Kravet was always first on the list to make Jennifer's furniture. The incredible support that they got from the expert team at Kravet Inc., every step of the way. The pieces that they designed that didn't make the collection. The great value Austin and Jennifer found in the sharing of expertise with Kravet Inc. The great pleasure that it's been for Austin and Jennifer to work with Kravet. Austin's websites: http://www.mableyhandler.com http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/ www.curatedkravet.com If you'd like to know what it's like to be a successful Interior Designer in The Hampton's, you're going to enjoy today's show with LuAnn's guest, Austin Handler. Austin and his wife, Jennifer Mabely, are the principals of Mabely Handler Interior Design in The Hampton's. Listen in today, to find out about this leading design firm that has been featured many many times, in both magazines and on TV.

 

LuAnn does a lot of work herself, in The Hampton's. She says that it's like it's own little planet. On today's show, you will hear about Austin and Jennifer's fabulous projects there and the great success of  their Interior Design Business, which they started in The Hampton's in 2002 and also about their work which has been featured in numerous publications, including Hampton's Cottages and Gardens, Hampton's Magazine, Beach Magazine, Coastal Living,  Lux Interiors and Design, Ocean Home, Traditional Home, The New York times, The Daily News and the New York Post, along with News Day and NBC's LX TV, Open House, New York City, News 12 and The Discovery Channel.

 

Kravet Inc. recently launched their brand new line of furniture, which has been designed by Mabely Handler Interior Design. Listen in today, as Austin shares the back story on the creation and the execution of this truly gorgeous new line of furniture.

 

Today, Austin talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • What it's like, working as a designer in The Hampton's, where the design has its own feel and vibe.
  • Finding the balance in design, between luxurious living and durability.
  • What it was like, breaking into Interior Design in The Hampton's and breaking the stereotype of 'taking your designer with you'.
  • When their room, which wasn't a feature room, in their first show house for Hampton's Cottages and Gardens Magazine was featured in The New York Times.
  • How they came to develop The Hampton Aesthetic, their line of furniture with Kravet Inc.
  • The kind of furniture in The Hampton Aesthetic line.
  • Austin and Jennifer's initial meeting with Kravet Inc. about the furniture design and how they managed to convey their concepts and their vision, with clarity.
  • The very well known Hampton's design style.
  • How they set the scene, to create the right atmosphere, to sell The Hampton's Aesthetic furniture line to Cravet Inc.
  • How they set a trend for creating coastal design collections.
  • How they used certain fabrics and materials to give The Hampton Aesthetic maximum versatility.
  • Why Kravet was always first on the list to make Jennifer's furniture.
  • The incredible support that they got from the expert team at Kravet Inc., every step of the way.
  • The pieces that they designed that didn't make the collection.
  • The great value Austin and Jennifer found in the sharing of expertise with Kravet Inc.

The great pleasure that it's been for Austin and Jennifer to work with Kravet.

Austin's websites: http://www.mableyhandler.com http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/ www.curatedkravet.com

]]> 5217 no 172: Natalie Hurst- Business on Her Terms- Full- Time Mom & Wife and Part-Time Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/172-natalie-hurst-business-on-her-terms-full-time-mom-wife-and-part-time-designer If you'd like to hear about a business  perspective that's very different to that of the bigger firms which are usually featured on the show, you'll enjoy today's episode, with Natalie Hurst, who's first a full-time mom and wife and second, a part-time Interior Designer. Listen in and find out how Natalie does it. You're going to find it interesting!   Natalie, who lives in Salt Lake City Utah, with her husband and four children, graduated from Brigham Young University in 2003 with a B.Sa in Interior Design. After working in the lighting industry for a few years, she spent the next ten years away from the design world, consulting occasionally with friends or family. In 2014 she felt ready to dive back in and so she started Natalie Hurst Interiors. Listen in today, as Natalie shares her ideas on work and business flow, from a very different perspective.   Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about: How she decided to start her business at such a busy time in her life. That she's comfortable with doing her business part time, for the time being. The specific work-life balance that she's found, that works for her. That her life could appear disorganized and stressful to someone else. How she structures the phases of her work, both consciously and organically. Attracting the clientele that you want. Charging prices that are appropriate to your desired clientele. How she prepares for her really busy design weeks. Coping with very specific challenges. That her sourcing is mostly done online. How she organizes her workspace, at home. That she keeps track of things by taking lots of notes. Her really honest relationships with her vendors. Having confidence in asking for help. How she structures her fees. How she landed her very first client. Word of mouth is the only marketing tool that she needs at the moment. How she came to being featured in Pregnancy And New Born Magazine from a picture on Instagram. That Instagram is an authentic and effective marketing tool for her. Mon, 01 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you'd like to hear about a business  perspective that's very different to that of the bigger firms which are usually featured on the show, you'll enjoy today's episode, with Natalie Hurst, who's first a full-time mom and wife and second, a... If you'd like to hear about a business  perspective that's very different to that of the bigger firms which are usually featured on the show, you'll enjoy today's episode, with Natalie Hurst, who's first a full-time mom and wife and second, a part-time Interior Designer. Listen in and find out how Natalie does it. You're going to find it interesting!   Natalie, who lives in Salt Lake City Utah, with her husband and four children, graduated from Brigham Young University in 2003 with a B.Sa in Interior Design. After working in the lighting industry for a few years, she spent the next ten years away from the design world, consulting occasionally with friends or family. In 2014 she felt ready to dive back in and so she started Natalie Hurst Interiors. Listen in today, as Natalie shares her ideas on work and business flow, from a very different perspective.   Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about: How she decided to start her business at such a busy time in her life. That she's comfortable with doing her business part time, for the time being. The specific work-life balance that she's found, that works for her. That her life could appear disorganized and stressful to someone else. How she structures the phases of her work, both consciously and organically. Attracting the clientele that you want. Charging prices that are appropriate to your desired clientele. How she prepares for her really busy design weeks. Coping with very specific challenges. That her sourcing is mostly done online. How she organizes her workspace, at home. That she keeps track of things by taking lots of notes. Her really honest relationships with her vendors. Having confidence in asking for help. How she structures her fees. How she landed her very first client. Word of mouth is the only marketing tool that she needs at the moment. How she came to being featured in Pregnancy And New Born Magazine from a picture on Instagram. That Instagram is an authentic and effective marketing tool for her. If you'd like to hear about a business  perspective that's very different to that of the bigger firms which are usually featured on the show, you'll enjoy today's episode, with Natalie Hurst, who's first a full-time mom and wife and second, a part-time Interior Designer. Listen in and find out how Natalie does it. You're going to find it interesting!

 

Natalie, who lives in Salt Lake City Utah, with her husband and four children, graduated from Brigham Young University in 2003 with a B.Sa in Interior Design. After working in the lighting industry for a few years, she spent the next ten years away from the design world, consulting occasionally with friends or family. In 2014 she felt ready to dive back in and so she started Natalie Hurst Interiors. Listen in today, as Natalie shares her ideas on work and business flow, from a very different perspective.

 

Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about:

  • How she decided to start her business at such a busy time in her life.
  • That she's comfortable with doing her business part time, for the time being.
  • The specific work-life balance that she's found, that works for her.
  • That her life could appear disorganized and stressful to someone else.
  • How she structures the phases of her work, both consciously and organically.
  • Attracting the clientele that you want.
  • Charging prices that are appropriate to your desired clientele.
  • How she prepares for her really busy design weeks.
  • Coping with very specific challenges.
  • That her sourcing is mostly done online.
  • How she organizes her workspace, at home.
  • That she keeps track of things by taking lots of notes.
  • Her really honest relationships with her vendors.
  • Having confidence in asking for help.
  • How she structures her fees.
  • How she landed her very first client.
  • Word of mouth is the only marketing tool that she needs at the moment.
  • How she came to being featured in Pregnancy And New Born Magazine from a picture on Instagram.
  • That Instagram is an authentic and effective marketing tool for her.
]]> 4007 no 171: Power Talk Friday- Danielle Liss- Co-Founder of HashTag Legal- And She’s the Chillest Lawyer You’ll Ever Meet http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/171-power-talk-friday-danielle-liss-co-founder-of-hashtag-legal-and-shes-the-chillest-lawyer-youll-ever-meet Are you intimidated at the thought of going to see a lawyer about your business? Or do you feel that they may look down on you and not take your business seriously? If so, you really need to listen in to today's show, with LuAnn's expert guest, Danielle Liss, who is a lawyer who has absolutely nothing invested in intimidating her clients. Quite the opposite, actually- Danielle and her partner, Jamie Lieberman have a firm called HashtagLegal and they allow a potential client to purchase only what they really need, even if it's only a once off conversation. They don't want people to feel that legal work is inaccessible. They believe that a lawyer should be a partner, to help your business grow and to help you to make strategic decisions. Listen in now and find out what Danielle has to say, that could benefit you and your business.   Danielle was previously Chief Marketing Officer and General Council for Fitfluential, an Influencer's Network that concentrates on health and wellness initiatives. She has loads of experience in creating and negotiating contracts, interpreting FTC guidelines and creating website policies. She's also worked for a Fortune 500 Bank and spent some time in private practice. As well as this, she is an accomplished speaker, having spoken at dozens of conferences on legal issues, related to bloggers and social media pros. Listen in and find out what you really need to know, legally speaking.   Today, Danielle talks to LuAnn about:   How hard it is, at times, for people to figure out the kind of legal service that they really need. Those lawyers have a tendency to not take people and their businesses as seriously as people would like them to. The kinds of things that they like to help people through. What she would suggest for people who are starting out in an Interior Design business and are looking for some advice. The kinds of entities that you can create for your business- an LLC or a Corporation and what each one will involve. The costs involved to file the paperwork for either an LLC or a Corporation. Why you shouldn't skip on the legal stuff when building your brand. The importance of figuring out and crafting a letter of agreement with your client. What to outline in a letter of agreement with a client. How to extricate yourself from a design agreement, legally. The importance of being really clear about what you are being engaged for. Creating clear communication boundaries. Indemnity provisions and making sure that you are going to be held harmless in certain types of claims. Making provision for the gray areas in a standard client contract. Creating contracts for sub-contractors. The importance of vetting the contractors that you work with. Making sure that your clients are okay with being included in your portfolio, in a confidentiality provision. Site terms, disclaimers, and legal and privacy policies on your website. The importance of disclosing your retargeting pixels. Liabilities on Facebook Live and Youtube. Protecting yourself against 'nonsense lawsuits', which could end up costing you five figures! The importance of disclosing and maintaining transparency about what you're doing on your website or blog. Links: Danielle's website: www.hashtag-legal.com   Danielle's email: danielle@hashtag-legal.com Fri, 28 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Are you intimidated at the thought of going to see a lawyer about your business? Or do you feel that they may look down on you and not take your business seriously? If so, you really need to listen in to today's show, with LuAnn's expert guest,... Are you intimidated at the thought of going to see a lawyer about your business? Or do you feel that they may look down on you and not take your business seriously? If so, you really need to listen in to today's show, with LuAnn's expert guest, Danielle Liss, who is a lawyer who has absolutely nothing invested in intimidating her clients. Quite the opposite, actually- Danielle and her partner, Jamie Lieberman have a firm called HashtagLegal and they allow a potential client to purchase only what they really need, even if it's only a once off conversation. They don't want people to feel that legal work is inaccessible. They believe that a lawyer should be a partner, to help your business grow and to help you to make strategic decisions. Listen in now and find out what Danielle has to say, that could benefit you and your business.   Danielle was previously Chief Marketing Officer and General Council for Fitfluential, an Influencer's Network that concentrates on health and wellness initiatives. She has loads of experience in creating and negotiating contracts, interpreting FTC guidelines and creating website policies. She's also worked for a Fortune 500 Bank and spent some time in private practice. As well as this, she is an accomplished speaker, having spoken at dozens of conferences on legal issues, related to bloggers and social media pros. Listen in and find out what you really need to know, legally speaking.   Today, Danielle talks to LuAnn about:   How hard it is, at times, for people to figure out the kind of legal service that they really need. Those lawyers have a tendency to not take people and their businesses as seriously as people would like them to. The kinds of things that they like to help people through. What she would suggest for people who are starting out in an Interior Design business and are looking for some advice. The kinds of entities that you can create for your business- an LLC or a Corporation and what each one will involve. The costs involved to file the paperwork for either an LLC or a Corporation. Why you shouldn't skip on the legal stuff when building your brand. The importance of figuring out and crafting a letter of agreement with your client. What to outline in a letter of agreement with a client. How to extricate yourself from a design agreement, legally. The importance of being really clear about what you are being engaged for. Creating clear communication boundaries. Indemnity provisions and making sure that you are going to be held harmless in certain types of claims. Making provision for the gray areas in a standard client contract. Creating contracts for sub-contractors. The importance of vetting the contractors that you work with. Making sure that your clients are okay with being included in your portfolio, in a confidentiality provision. Site terms, disclaimers, and legal and privacy policies on your website. The importance of disclosing your retargeting pixels. Liabilities on Facebook Live and Youtube. Protecting yourself against 'nonsense lawsuits', which could end up costing you five figures! The importance of disclosing and maintaining transparency about what you're doing on your website or blog. Links: Danielle's website: www.hashtag-legal.com   Danielle's email: danielle@hashtag-legal.com Are you intimidated at the thought of going to see a lawyer about your business? Or do you feel that they may look down on you and not take your business seriously? If so, you really need to listen in to today's show, with LuAnn's expert guest, Danielle Liss, who is a lawyer who has absolutely nothing invested in intimidating her clients.

Quite the opposite, actually- Danielle and her partner, Jamie Lieberman have a firm called HashtagLegal and they allow a potential client to purchase only what they really need, even if it's only a once off conversation. They don't want people to feel that legal work is inaccessible. They believe that a lawyer should be a partner, to help your business grow and to help you to make strategic decisions. Listen in now and find out what Danielle has to say, that could benefit you and your business.

 

Danielle was previously Chief Marketing Officer and General Council for Fitfluential, an Influencer's Network that concentrates on health and wellness initiatives. She has loads of experience in creating and negotiating contracts, interpreting FTC guidelines and creating website policies. She's also worked for a Fortune 500 Bank and spent some time in private practice. As well as this, she is an accomplished speaker, having spoken at dozens of conferences on legal issues, related to bloggers and social media pros. Listen in and find out what you really need to know, legally speaking.

 

Today, Danielle talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • How hard it is, at times, for people to figure out the kind of legal service that they really need.
  • Those lawyers have a tendency to not take people and their businesses as seriously as people would like them to.
  • The kinds of things that they like to help people through.
  • What she would suggest for people who are starting out in an Interior Design business and are looking for some advice.
  • The kinds of entities that you can create for your business- an LLC or a Corporation and what each one will involve.
  • The costs involved to file the paperwork for either an LLC or a Corporation.
  • Why you shouldn't skip on the legal stuff when building your brand.
  • The importance of figuring out and crafting a letter of agreement with your client.
  • What to outline in a letter of agreement with a client.
  • How to extricate yourself from a design agreement, legally.
  • The importance of being really clear about what you are being engaged for.
  • Creating clear communication boundaries.
  • Indemnity provisions and making sure that you are going to be held harmless in certain types of claims.
  • Making provision for the gray areas in a standard client contract.
  • Creating contracts for sub-contractors.
  • The importance of vetting the contractors that you work with.
  • Making sure that your clients are okay with being included in your portfolio, in a confidentiality provision.
  • Site terms, disclaimers, and legal and privacy policies on your website.
  • The importance of disclosing your retargeting pixels.
  • Liabilities on Facebook Live and Youtube.
  • Protecting yourself against 'nonsense lawsuits', which could end up costing you five figures!
  • The importance of disclosing and maintaining transparency about what you're doing on your website or blog.

Links:

Danielle's website: www.hashtag-legal.com

 

Danielle's email: danielle@hashtag-legal.com

]]> 3839 no 170: Corey Klassen & Judith Neary- CEU: Beyond Design- Establishing Monetary Value for Creative Skills http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/170-corey-klassen-judith-neary-ceu-beyond-design-establishing-monetary-value-for-creative-skills Today’s show features, Corey Klassen and Judith Neary. While there’s a host of topics we could talk to them about, today we are focusing our conversation on the new CEU that they have created. There is so much value in their CEU. Judith is a certified bath and kitchen designer, and she moved to the manufacturing side and now works on implementing business processes. She offers a comprehensive designers perspective as a consultant and she's known for doing weird really well! Corey is also a certified bath and kitchen designer, and a Certified Designer with experience in commercial and residential design. He opened his own firm in 2011 and has won many awards and been featured in many design magazines. He teaches and continues to expand his professional credentials. He is known for creating symmetry in awkward spaces. Together, Judith and Corey co-lecture all across the US and teach designers about the business of design. This led to the creation of their new CEU.   In this episode Corey and Judith discuss: How My Doma Studio plays a role in the new CEU course. Learn what a “psychographic” is and why it matters to Corey. Why Judith does weird so very well. Find out how hard it is to make your kitchen match your aura! The rules for designers are different since the recession. Learn how Judith and Corey met and teamed up! Corey and Judith are polar opposites - and it works! The process of working through psychographics. There’s an art in knowing when to refer someone out - learn it today. Homeowners truly don’t understand what designers do. Find out why a site visit isn’t being fully utilized and how Corey changed it! The CEU can help designers regain valuable administrative charges. Find out which course is best for you   Resources: mydomastudio.com/beyonddesign - Register for the course First course starts May 10 Course for seasoned designers starts May 18   Corey’s website: https://coreyklassen.ca  Judith Neary's website: http://www.roadsideattractionstudio.com   Not sure if the CEU course is right for you? Here’s a detailed description: Beyond Design: Establishing Monetary Value for Creative Skills Judith and I have co-authored a 2hr CEU that is IDCEC Approved and has been presented at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (in current format) this year with sold-out attendance. We're already scheduled for 2018. Previous formats have been sold-out at KBIS 2015, 2016 and IDS Vancouver 2014. So, what is this? The start of the course came out of personal and professional challenges that Judith and I have separately had with the ever-changing market of clients who shop online, watch media shows, read mommy-blogs and thing they can do it all for a shoe-string budget.  Why this course? Interior design education is really great at teaching the basics of business and excels at creativity, but if the business is 80% and creativity is 20% we really have our shirts on backwards. Why now? Personally, after I was apart of the DXV Design Panel in 2014, my business went from a home office to taking over my home, adding and employee, and now in a studio location with a Team. I when to show much incredible professional growth that I've nearly thrown in the towel a few times, but if I love what I do I had to find a way to do what I love. I'm sure Judith will have more to contribute, and I'm sure I'll run down the road and leave her at the stop sign too, but we're really excited to talk about why running a scalable business is achievable with a solid plan (or without one...) I truly admire Judith and her skills, she has been such a great friend, co-conspirator, and advisor to me and I'm sure she has her shared values about me. Here's a link to our upcoming course hosted by Mydoma Studio! https://www.mydomastudio.com/beyond-design-business-course-for-interior-designers Wed, 26 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s show features, Corey Klassen and Judith Neary. While there’s a host of topics we could talk to them about, today we are focusing our conversation on the new CEU that they have created. There is so much value in their CEU. Judith is a... Today’s show features, Corey Klassen and Judith Neary. While there’s a host of topics we could talk to them about, today we are focusing our conversation on the new CEU that they have created. There is so much value in their CEU. Judith is a certified bath and kitchen designer, and she moved to the manufacturing side and now works on implementing business processes. She offers a comprehensive designers perspective as a consultant and she's known for doing weird really well! Corey is also a certified bath and kitchen designer, and a Certified Designer with experience in commercial and residential design. He opened his own firm in 2011 and has won many awards and been featured in many design magazines. He teaches and continues to expand his professional credentials. He is known for creating symmetry in awkward spaces. Together, Judith and Corey co-lecture all across the US and teach designers about the business of design. This led to the creation of their new CEU.   In this episode Corey and Judith discuss: How My Doma Studio plays a role in the new CEU course. Learn what a “psychographic” is and why it matters to Corey. Why Judith does weird so very well. Find out how hard it is to make your kitchen match your aura! The rules for designers are different since the recession. Learn how Judith and Corey met and teamed up! Corey and Judith are polar opposites - and it works! The process of working through psychographics. There’s an art in knowing when to refer someone out - learn it today. Homeowners truly don’t understand what designers do. Find out why a site visit isn’t being fully utilized and how Corey changed it! The CEU can help designers regain valuable administrative charges. Find out which course is best for you   Resources: mydomastudio.com/beyonddesign - Register for the course First course starts May 10 Course for seasoned designers starts May 18   Corey’s website: https://coreyklassen.ca  Judith Neary's website: http://www.roadsideattractionstudio.com   Not sure if the CEU course is right for you? Here’s a detailed description: Beyond Design: Establishing Monetary Value for Creative Skills Judith and I have co-authored a 2hr CEU that is IDCEC Approved and has been presented at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (in current format) this year with sold-out attendance. We're already scheduled for 2018. Previous formats have been sold-out at KBIS 2015, 2016 and IDS Vancouver 2014. So, what is this? The start of the course came out of personal and professional challenges that Judith and I have separately had with the ever-changing market of clients who shop online, watch media shows, read mommy-blogs and thing they can do it all for a shoe-string budget.  Why this course? Interior design education is really great at teaching the basics of business and excels at creativity, but if the business is 80% and creativity is 20% we really have our shirts on backwards. Why now? Personally, after I was apart of the DXV Design Panel in 2014, my business went from a home office to taking over my home, adding and employee, and now in a studio location with a Team. I when to show much incredible professional growth that I've nearly thrown in the towel a few times, but if I love what I do I had to find a way to do what I love. I'm sure Judith will have more to contribute, and I'm sure I'll run down the road and leave her at the stop sign too, but we're really excited to talk about why running a scalable business is achievable with a solid plan (or without one...) I truly admire Judith and her skills, she has been such a great friend, co-conspirator, and advisor to me and I'm sure she has her shared values about me. Here's a link to our upcoming course hosted by Mydoma Studio! https://www.mydomastudio.com/beyond-design-business-course-for-interior-designers Today’s show features, Corey Klassen and Judith Neary. While there’s a host of topics we could talk to them about, today we are focusing our conversation on the new CEU that they have created. There is so much value in their CEU. Judith is a certified bath and kitchen designer, and she moved to the manufacturing side and now works on implementing business processes. She offers a comprehensive designers perspective as a consultant and she's known for doing weird really well!

Corey is also a certified bath and kitchen designer, and a Certified Designer with experience in commercial and residential design. He opened his own firm in 2011 and has won many awards and been featured in many design magazines. He teaches and continues to expand his professional credentials. He is known for creating symmetry in awkward spaces.

Together, Judith and Corey co-lecture all across the US and teach designers about the business of design. This led to the creation of their new CEU.

 

In this episode Corey and Judith discuss:

  • How My Doma Studio plays a role in the new CEU course.
  • Learn what a “psychographic” is and why it matters to Corey.
  • Why Judith does weird so very well.
  • Find out how hard it is to make your kitchen match your aura!
  • The rules for designers are different since the recession.
  • Learn how Judith and Corey met and teamed up!
  • Corey and Judith are polar opposites - and it works!
  • The process of working through psychographics.
  • There’s an art in knowing when to refer someone out - learn it today.
  • Homeowners truly don’t understand what designers do.
  • Find out why a site visit isn’t being fully utilized and how Corey changed it!
  • The CEU can help designers regain valuable administrative charges.
  • Find out which course is best for you

 

Resources:

mydomastudio.com/beyonddesign - Register for the course

First course starts May 10

Course for seasoned designers starts May 18

 

Corey’s website:

https://coreyklassen.ca 

Judith Neary's website:

http://www.roadsideattractionstudio.com

 

Not sure if the CEU course is right for you? Here’s a detailed description:

Beyond Design: Establishing Monetary Value for Creative Skills

Judith and I have co-authored a 2hr CEU that is IDCEC Approved and has been presented at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (in current format) this year with sold-out attendance. We're already scheduled for 2018. Previous formats have been sold-out at KBIS 2015, 2016 and IDS Vancouver 2014.

So, what is this? The start of the course came out of personal and professional challenges that Judith and I have separately had with the ever-changing market of clients who shop online, watch media shows, read mommy-blogs and thing they can do it all for a shoe-string budget. 

Why this course? Interior design education is really great at teaching the basics of business and excels at creativity, but if the business is 80% and creativity is 20% we really have our shirts on backwards.

Why now? Personally, after I was apart of the DXV Design Panel in 2014, my business went from a home office to taking over my home, adding and employee, and now in a studio location with a Team. I when to show much incredible professional growth that I've nearly thrown in the towel a few times, but if I love what I do I had to find a way to do what I love.

I'm sure Judith will have more to contribute, and I'm sure I'll run down the road and leave her at the stop sign too, but we're really excited to talk about why running a scalable business is achievable with a solid plan (or without one...) I truly admire Judith and her skills, she has been such a great friend, co-conspirator, and advisor to me and I'm sure she has her shared values about me.

Here's a link to our upcoming course hosted by Mydoma Studio!

https://www.mydomastudio.com/beyond-design-business-course-for-interior-designers

]]> 4661 no 169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger's Conference http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/169-amber-lewis-keynote-speaker-at-design-bloggers-conference The guest on today's show is Amber Lewis, who was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger's Conference. LuAnn didn't get to talk to her at the conference, so she's really happy to interview Amber on today's show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting.  LuAnn finds Amber's body of work and what she's managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media. Amber spent a couple of years working for Elizabeth Lamont (#17) at her store, Room With A View, in Santa Monica. This is where she first fell in love with pretty things and with design and started to feel a pull in that direction. Listen in and find out how Amber first discovered her niche in the world of design and how her business has evolved and grown, since then.   Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about:  How she first started out, working for Elizabeth Lamont and where she went, from there. How she initially didn't connect being an Interior Designer with making a living. How much she gained from working for and being mentored by Kirsten Marie. Why she only hires people who have completed school. How she learned about design on the job, through making mistakes, rather than going to school. That she runs her business as a team effort. What it was like for her, speaking at the Design Blogger's Conference. Why you shouldn't compare your own business with the appearance of someone else's success. How she first started to develop a name for herself through her initial obsessive engagement with her community. How she has learned and progressed through her business. Creating a formula to her really successful method of engagement with social media. Her e-commerce store- how it started through her blog which documented the decoration of her home. Her Flash Sales on Instagram- a great way to gain followers. Her struggle with sacrificing her family time for the huge amount of time and attention that she poured into developing her business. Her milestones, analyzing why her followers were coming back. The first time her house was properly published, in Glitter Guide and in HD TV Magazine how she used the pics to her advantage. The silly names she uses for her clients' hashtags! Her fabulous photographer, Tessa W, who she's used on all her projects. The value of using really great photography. Being featured in Architectural Digest last October, for her kitchen. Working with agencies for blog sponsorship. Brand ambassadorship and how it has developed. That she does all her own writing for all her social media platforms. Amber's website: http://amberinteriordesign.com Amber's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/ Mon, 24 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Amber Lewis, who was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger's Conference. LuAnn didn't get to talk to her at the conference, so she's really happy to interview Amber on today's show, as there were parts of her... The guest on today's show is Amber Lewis, who was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger's Conference. LuAnn didn't get to talk to her at the conference, so she's really happy to interview Amber on today's show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting.  LuAnn finds Amber's body of work and what she's managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media. Amber spent a couple of years working for Elizabeth Lamont (#17) at her store, Room With A View, in Santa Monica. This is where she first fell in love with pretty things and with design and started to feel a pull in that direction. Listen in and find out how Amber first discovered her niche in the world of design and how her business has evolved and grown, since then.   Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about:  How she first started out, working for Elizabeth Lamont and where she went, from there. How she initially didn't connect being an Interior Designer with making a living. How much she gained from working for and being mentored by Kirsten Marie. Why she only hires people who have completed school. How she learned about design on the job, through making mistakes, rather than going to school. That she runs her business as a team effort. What it was like for her, speaking at the Design Blogger's Conference. Why you shouldn't compare your own business with the appearance of someone else's success. How she first started to develop a name for herself through her initial obsessive engagement with her community. How she has learned and progressed through her business. Creating a formula to her really successful method of engagement with social media. Her e-commerce store- how it started through her blog which documented the decoration of her home. Her Flash Sales on Instagram- a great way to gain followers. Her struggle with sacrificing her family time for the huge amount of time and attention that she poured into developing her business. Her milestones, analyzing why her followers were coming back. The first time her house was properly published, in Glitter Guide and in HD TV Magazine how she used the pics to her advantage. The silly names she uses for her clients' hashtags! Her fabulous photographer, Tessa W, who she's used on all her projects. The value of using really great photography. Being featured in Architectural Digest last October, for her kitchen. Working with agencies for blog sponsorship. Brand ambassadorship and how it has developed. That she does all her own writing for all her social media platforms. Amber's website: http://amberinteriordesign.com Amber's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/ The guest on today's show is Amber Lewis, who was a Key Note Speaker at the recent Design Blogger's Conference. LuAnn didn't get to talk to her at the conference, so she's really happy to interview Amber on today's show, as there were parts of her story that LuAnne thought were really fun and interesting.  LuAnn finds Amber's body of work and what she's managed to accomplish at such a young age, to be incredible. Listen in now and get some great tips for gaining followers on social media.

Amber spent a couple of years working for Elizabeth Lamont (#17) at her store, Room With A View, in Santa Monica. This is where she first fell in love with pretty things and with design and started to feel a pull in that direction. Listen in and find out how Amber first discovered her niche in the world of design and how her business has evolved and grown, since then.

 

Today, Amber talks to LuAnn about: 

  • How she first started out, working for Elizabeth Lamont and where she went, from there.
  • How she initially didn't connect being an Interior Designer with making a living.
  • How much she gained from working for and being mentored by Kirsten Marie.
  • Why she only hires people who have completed school.
  • How she learned about design on the job, through making mistakes, rather than going to school.
  • That she runs her business as a team effort.
  • What it was like for her, speaking at the Design Blogger's Conference.
  • Why you shouldn't compare your own business with the appearance of someone else's success.
  • How she first started to develop a name for herself through her initial obsessive engagement with her community.
  • How she has learned and progressed through her business.
  • Creating a formula to her really successful method of engagement with social media.
  • Her e-commerce store- how it started through her blog which documented the decoration of her home.
  • Her Flash Sales on Instagram- a great way to gain followers.
  • Her struggle with sacrificing her family time for the huge amount of time and attention that she poured into developing her business.
  • Her milestones, analyzing why her followers were coming back.
  • The first time her house was properly published, in Glitter Guide and in HD TV Magazine how she used the pics to her advantage.
  • The silly names she uses for her clients' hashtags!
  • Her fabulous photographer, Tessa W, who she's used on all her projects.
  • The value of using really great photography.
  • Being featured in Architectural Digest last October, for her kitchen.
  • Working with agencies for blog sponsorship.
  • Brand ambassadorship and how it has developed.
  • That she does all her own writing for all her social media platforms.

Amber's website:

http://amberinteriordesign.com

Amber's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/amberinteriors/

]]> 4925 no 168: Power Talk Friday - LuAnn Nigara- The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business- Part 2 of Design Bloggers Conference Presentation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/167-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business-part-2-of-design-bloggers-conference-presentation In today's Power Talk Friday, I'll continue with the second half of the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I'm covering the top lessons that I've learned through podcasting about interior design. Last week, we went over the first three lessons #165. The other shows include Claire Staszak and Kelsey Grose this past Monday and Wednesday and this coming Monday will be Amber Lewis. All 3 interviews had some terrific advice for design blogging as well as running your firm and building an audience on Instagram. Three truly smart ladies! Today, we'll cover the rest.  Join me now with The Things I Learned From A Well Designed Business Part 2!   Be Do Have – Have Do Be #141 Jim Riviello says that we need to change our way of thinking about things in order to be successful. Jim, a business coach and the owner of Leadership X University, explains that we need to Be-Do-Have, not Have-Do-Be. In today's show, I will clarify this powerful explanation. Leap Of Faith #21 Stacy Garcia took a leap of faith and decided to invest in vintage wallpaper and fabric as a starting point for creating a new textile line for the hospitality industry. No Pipeline #55 Rachel Moriaty heard about Facebook Live and the rest is history. 24 hours to decide #128 Grace McNamara was an Advertising Director, thirty-one years old and with no idea of how to run a magazine, was given 24 hours in which to decide if she would buy two magazines. Despite huge fears, she jumped into it and became an entrepreneur and a magazine publisher. Sarah Daniele came up with an idea and turned it into a software program. #79 Anna Brockway-Chairish saw a need in the marketplace and built a huge company, filling a gap in services. #85 Heather and Mark used tech to offer truly professional Interior Design at a level of excellence, affordable for the masses. Nous Decor was born- however, in running Nous Decor, she has another business- how to scale Nous Decor. Interior Design Is A Business First #112 and #144 Kimberly Seldon- Business of Design. Flat fees, Scope Creep, Trade Days, Fifteen steps to running a profitable project...and the list goes on. #2 and #Sandra Funk House Of Funk #36 Susan Brunstrum #24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Krista Coupar How to bill out using hourly fees. Managing work-life balance from a financial perspective. Build your story and your brand. Things to look at when planning your new work year. #71 Dr. Ellen Fischer- Ellen cautions us about the main reasons that Interior Designers have trouble being profitable: Undervaluing your time. Not charging for the hours you work. Not recognizing how to keep your pipeline filled. Not placing enough emphasis on marketing. Ellen's advice to new graduates: Stay connected to the passion that brought you to the field throughout your career, not just in the beginning. Be prepared for hard work. The business of interior design is tough and while outsiders may not recognize it, it is truly as hard as any other career. Ellen's advice when hiring interns and junior designers for your firm: Set tangible goals and objectives for the tenure. Teach, train, monitor and evaluate performance. “Fuzzy objectives = Fuzzy experience.” #6 Erika Ward- Erika attributes her success to her expertise and knowledge in Business Management. She advises: Educate yourself about Business Management. Do everything you can to broaden and enhance your business acumen. This will ensure a proper foundation for a profitable business, allowing you to explore your talent, create fantastic spaces for your clients and explode your Interior Design business.   Links: Jim Riviello: https://lxu.training/ https://businessofdesign.com/how-it-works/ Fri, 21 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara In today's Power Talk Friday, I'll continue with the second half of the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I'm covering the top lessons that I've learned through podcasting about interior design. Last week, we went over the first three lessons... In today's Power Talk Friday, I'll continue with the second half of the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I'm covering the top lessons that I've learned through podcasting about interior design. Last week, we went over the first three lessons #165. The other shows include Claire Staszak and Kelsey Grose this past Monday and Wednesday and this coming Monday will be Amber Lewis. All 3 interviews had some terrific advice for design blogging as well as running your firm and building an audience on Instagram. Three truly smart ladies! Today, we'll cover the rest.  Join me now with The Things I Learned From A Well Designed Business Part 2!   Be Do Have – Have Do Be #141 Jim Riviello says that we need to change our way of thinking about things in order to be successful. Jim, a business coach and the owner of Leadership X University, explains that we need to Be-Do-Have, not Have-Do-Be. In today's show, I will clarify this powerful explanation. Leap Of Faith #21 Stacy Garcia took a leap of faith and decided to invest in vintage wallpaper and fabric as a starting point for creating a new textile line for the hospitality industry. No Pipeline #55 Rachel Moriaty heard about Facebook Live and the rest is history. 24 hours to decide #128 Grace McNamara was an Advertising Director, thirty-one years old and with no idea of how to run a magazine, was given 24 hours in which to decide if she would buy two magazines. Despite huge fears, she jumped into it and became an entrepreneur and a magazine publisher. Sarah Daniele came up with an idea and turned it into a software program. #79 Anna Brockway-Chairish saw a need in the marketplace and built a huge company, filling a gap in services. #85 Heather and Mark used tech to offer truly professional Interior Design at a level of excellence, affordable for the masses. Nous Decor was born- however, in running Nous Decor, she has another business- how to scale Nous Decor. Interior Design Is A Business First #112 and #144 Kimberly Seldon- Business of Design. Flat fees, Scope Creep, Trade Days, Fifteen steps to running a profitable project...and the list goes on. #2 and #Sandra Funk House Of Funk #36 Susan Brunstrum #24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Krista Coupar How to bill out using hourly fees. Managing work-life balance from a financial perspective. Build your story and your brand. Things to look at when planning your new work year. #71 Dr. Ellen Fischer- Ellen cautions us about the main reasons that Interior Designers have trouble being profitable: Undervaluing your time. Not charging for the hours you work. Not recognizing how to keep your pipeline filled. Not placing enough emphasis on marketing. Ellen's advice to new graduates: Stay connected to the passion that brought you to the field throughout your career, not just in the beginning. Be prepared for hard work. The business of interior design is tough and while outsiders may not recognize it, it is truly as hard as any other career. Ellen's advice when hiring interns and junior designers for your firm: Set tangible goals and objectives for the tenure. Teach, train, monitor and evaluate performance. “Fuzzy objectives = Fuzzy experience.” #6 Erika Ward- Erika attributes her success to her expertise and knowledge in Business Management. She advises: Educate yourself about Business Management. Do everything you can to broaden and enhance your business acumen. This will ensure a proper foundation for a profitable business, allowing you to explore your talent, create fantastic spaces for your clients and explode your Interior Design business.   Links: Jim Riviello: https://lxu.training/ https://businessofdesign.com/how-it-works/ In today's Power Talk Friday, I'll continue with the second half of the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I'm covering the top lessons that I've learned through podcasting about interior design. Last week, we went over the first three lessons #165.

The other shows include Claire Staszak and Kelsey Grose this past Monday and Wednesday and this coming Monday will be Amber Lewis. All 3 interviews had some terrific advice for design blogging as well as running your firm and building an audience on Instagram. Three truly smart ladies! Today, we'll cover the rest.  Join me now with The Things I Learned From A Well Designed Business Part 2!

 

  • Be Do Have – Have Do Be

#141 Jim Riviello says that we need to change our way of thinking about things in order to be successful. Jim, a business coach and the owner of Leadership X University, explains that we need to Be-Do-Have, not Have-Do-Be. In today's show, I will clarify this powerful explanation.

  • Leap Of Faith

#21 Stacy Garcia took a leap of faith and decided to invest in vintage wallpaper and fabric as a starting point for creating a new textile line for the hospitality industry.

  • No Pipeline

#55 Rachel Moriaty heard about Facebook Live and the rest is history.

  • 24 hours to decide

#128 Grace McNamara was an Advertising Director, thirty-one years old and with no idea of how to run a magazine, was given 24 hours in which to decide if she would buy two magazines. Despite huge fears, she jumped into it and became an entrepreneur and a magazine publisher.

  • Sarah Daniele came up with an idea and turned it into a software program.
  • #79 Anna Brockway-Chairish saw a need in the marketplace and built a huge company, filling a gap in services.
  • #85 Heather and Mark used tech to offer truly professional Interior Design at a level of excellence, affordable for the masses. Nous Decor was born- however, in running Nous Decor, she has another business- how to scale Nous Decor.

Interior Design Is A Business First

  • #112 and #144 Kimberly Seldon- Business of Design. Flat fees, Scope Creep, Trade Days, Fifteen steps to running a profitable project...and the list goes on.

#2 and #Sandra Funk House Of Funk

#36 Susan Brunstrum

#24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Krista Coupar

  • How to bill out using hourly fees.
  • Managing work-life balance from a financial perspective.
  • Build your story and your brand.
  • Things to look at when planning your new work year.

#71 Dr. Ellen Fischer- Ellen cautions us about the main reasons that Interior Designers have trouble being profitable:

  • Undervaluing your time.
  • Not charging for the hours you work.
  • Not recognizing how to keep your pipeline filled.
  • Not placing enough emphasis on marketing.

Ellen's advice to new graduates:

  • Stay connected to the passion that brought you to the field throughout your career, not just in the beginning.
  • Be prepared for hard work. The business of interior design is tough and while outsiders may not recognize it, it is truly as hard as any other career.

Ellen's advice when hiring interns and junior designers for your firm:

  • Set tangible goals and objectives for the tenure.
  • Teach, train, monitor and evaluate performance.
  • “Fuzzy objectives = Fuzzy experience.”

#6 Erika Ward- Erika attributes her success to her expertise and knowledge in Business Management. She advises:

  • Educate yourself about Business Management.
  • Do everything you can to broaden and enhance your business acumen.

This will ensure a proper foundation for a profitable business, allowing you to explore your talent, create fantastic spaces for your clients and explode your Interior Design business.

 

Links:

Jim Riviello: https://lxu.training/

https://businessofdesign.com/how-it-works/

]]> 2686 no 167: Kelsey Grose - Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/167-kelsey-grose-winner-of-best-new-design-blog-at-design-bloggers-conference-2017 Today’s guest is Kelsey Grose. I sat beside her at the Design Blogger’s Conference and after she won an award, I knew immediately that I had to get her on the show. I’ve been doing a whole series lately with all of the people I met at the Design Blogger’s Conference, so you are going to learn so much from all my guests in this series.    I was even more blown away when I learned that Kelsey has only been in business a year! That blew me away and I knew I had to work with her. So in addition to having the privilege of interviewing her today, I’m pleased   Kelsey Grose is the owner of Farmer’s Daughter Interior. Kelsey is based in Canada and has quickly found a following all over the US as well. She uses a 6 step design process that combines several different design styles. She has a passion for small business and entrepreneurship and she’s here today to share her wisdom with us.    Listen in as Kelsey and LuAnn discuss:   Find out Kelsey’s impression of the Design Blogger’s Conference and see if she had the same experience as LuAnn. In some ways, Kelsey got more than she expected from the conference - find out what exceeded her expectations. Relationships, relationships, relationships - the unexpected benefit of the conference. How a house tour is bringing several bloggers together and allowing them to leverage each other’s audiences through cross promotion. How guest posting on another blog can help promote your own website and business. Ways a new designer just getting their business off the ground can use existing resources online and properly credit the creator, and still build out their own content. How Kelsey is able to look like a seasoned designer with a beautiful blog, but in reality has only been in business a year. The resources that have been useful to Kelsey in getting her business started, plus she’s kind of obsessed with design! The exact steps Kelsey took to get started blogging and building her design business. How Kelsey got a really big kitchen design job as a new designer. A free consultation or a paid consultation? Find out which Kelsey uses. Ways to convert a paid consultation into a paid project. Treat your business like the world is watching you, even if they aren’t yet.     http://www.farmersdaughterinteriors.com   Wed, 19 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s guest is Kelsey Grose. I sat beside her at the Design Blogger’s Conference and after she won an award, I knew immediately that I had to get her on the show. I’ve been doing a whole series lately with all of the people I met at the Design... Today’s guest is Kelsey Grose. I sat beside her at the Design Blogger’s Conference and after she won an award, I knew immediately that I had to get her on the show. I’ve been doing a whole series lately with all of the people I met at the Design Blogger’s Conference, so you are going to learn so much from all my guests in this series.    I was even more blown away when I learned that Kelsey has only been in business a year! That blew me away and I knew I had to work with her. So in addition to having the privilege of interviewing her today, I’m pleased   Kelsey Grose is the owner of Farmer’s Daughter Interior. Kelsey is based in Canada and has quickly found a following all over the US as well. She uses a 6 step design process that combines several different design styles. She has a passion for small business and entrepreneurship and she’s here today to share her wisdom with us.    Listen in as Kelsey and LuAnn discuss:   Find out Kelsey’s impression of the Design Blogger’s Conference and see if she had the same experience as LuAnn. In some ways, Kelsey got more than she expected from the conference - find out what exceeded her expectations. Relationships, relationships, relationships - the unexpected benefit of the conference. How a house tour is bringing several bloggers together and allowing them to leverage each other’s audiences through cross promotion. How guest posting on another blog can help promote your own website and business. Ways a new designer just getting their business off the ground can use existing resources online and properly credit the creator, and still build out their own content. How Kelsey is able to look like a seasoned designer with a beautiful blog, but in reality has only been in business a year. The resources that have been useful to Kelsey in getting her business started, plus she’s kind of obsessed with design! The exact steps Kelsey took to get started blogging and building her design business. How Kelsey got a really big kitchen design job as a new designer. A free consultation or a paid consultation? Find out which Kelsey uses. Ways to convert a paid consultation into a paid project. Treat your business like the world is watching you, even if they aren’t yet.     http://www.farmersdaughterinteriors.com   Today’s guest is Kelsey Grose. I sat beside her at the Design Blogger’s Conference and after she won an award, I knew immediately that I had to get her on the show. I’ve been doing a whole series lately with all of the people I met at the Design Blogger’s Conference, so you are going to learn so much from all my guests in this series. 

 

I was even more blown away when I learned that Kelsey has only been in business a year! That blew me away and I knew I had to work with her. So in addition to having the privilege of interviewing her today, I’m pleased

 

Kelsey Grose is the owner of Farmer’s Daughter Interior. Kelsey is based in Canada and has quickly found a following all over the US as well. She uses a 6 step design process that combines several different design styles. She has a passion for small business and entrepreneurship and she’s here today to share her wisdom with us. 

 

Listen in as Kelsey and LuAnn discuss:

 

  • Find out Kelsey’s impression of the Design Blogger’s Conference and see if she had the same experience as LuAnn.
  • In some ways, Kelsey got more than she expected from the conference - find out what exceeded her expectations.
  • Relationships, relationships, relationships - the unexpected benefit of the conference.
  • How a house tour is bringing several bloggers together and allowing them to leverage each other’s audiences through cross promotion.
  • How guest posting on another blog can help promote your own website and business.
  • Ways a new designer just getting their business off the ground can use existing resources online and properly credit the creator, and still build out their own content.
  • How Kelsey is able to look like a seasoned designer with a beautiful blog, but in reality has only been in business a year.
  • The resources that have been useful to Kelsey in getting her business started, plus she’s kind of obsessed with design!
  • The exact steps Kelsey took to get started blogging and building her design business.
  • How Kelsey got a really big kitchen design job as a new designer.
  • A free consultation or a paid consultation? Find out which Kelsey uses.
  • Ways to convert a paid consultation into a paid project.
  • Treat your business like the world is watching you, even if they aren’t yet.

 

  http://www.farmersdaughterinteriors.com

 

]]> 4040 no 166: Claire Staszak - Winner of Best Blog Writing by Design Bloggers Conference 2017 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/166-claire-staszak-winner-of-best-blog-writing-by-design-bloggers-conference-2017 Today's interview is the first of three, which are as a follow up to the recent Design Bloggers Conference, which was held in LA, this last March. LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate.   Today's guest is Claire Staszak, who won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy.   Claire studied Interior Design at the School of Art Institute in Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bathroom Design from Harper College. She's a certified Yoga Instructor, with more than five hundred hours of training and she also has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in journalism from the University of Dayton. Claire did apprenticeships at two high-end firms- Nate Berkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors. Her own work has been featured in Design Sponge, Rue Magazine, and Domino. In 2016, she had the honor of being nominated for HD TV's Fresh Faces of Design Competition. With her latest project of renovating her own home, a 1932 Tudor Style brick bungalow in Chicago, Claire is using her own, eclectic style. You can follow this renovation on her blog. Listen in to today's show to find out more about Claire, and how she uses her blog as an effective tool for marketing her business.   Today, Claire talks to LuAnn about:   How she got to do her internships with Nate Burkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors. The advantages of getting as much work experience as possible. The benefits of working for a large and well-run business, in order to gain necessary experience, to run a successful business of your own, later on. Where she found the inspiration for her blog. How she incorporates Yoga and Meditation into her design work. How she's starting to be recognized by her clients, who know that she really gets them and knows what they want. That consistency is really important with blogging. Creating blog content that readers want to come back for. Her Renovation Series- how it helps her to draw people to her website. How collaboration has really worked for her as a marketing vehicle. That she really doesn't try to sell things from her blog, yet it still makes money for her in other ways. That you should go to conferences to renew your energy, expand your horizons with blogging and keep you moving forward. The great networking opportunities that she found at the conference. How the conference has helped her to partner up with other Interior Designers, to enhance their blogs and hers. Her Spring Into Home collaboration with other design bloggers. You don't need to spend a lot of money on your blog, however, you do need to spend something, to make it look really good. Using the correct etiquette and ethics to credit the source of the photographs that you use on your blog, from the internet. An idea to help people to network better with the people that they connect with at conferences. Claire's website: www.centeredbydesign.com  http://centeredbydesign.com/spring-home-tour-week-one-doreen-corrigan/   Mon, 17 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today's interview is the first of three, which are as a follow up to the recent Design Bloggers Conference, which was held in LA, this last March. LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their... Today's interview is the first of three, which are as a follow up to the recent Design Bloggers Conference, which was held in LA, this last March. LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate.   Today's guest is Claire Staszak, who won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy.   Claire studied Interior Design at the School of Art Institute in Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bathroom Design from Harper College. She's a certified Yoga Instructor, with more than five hundred hours of training and she also has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in journalism from the University of Dayton. Claire did apprenticeships at two high-end firms- Nate Berkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors. Her own work has been featured in Design Sponge, Rue Magazine, and Domino. In 2016, she had the honor of being nominated for HD TV's Fresh Faces of Design Competition. With her latest project of renovating her own home, a 1932 Tudor Style brick bungalow in Chicago, Claire is using her own, eclectic style. You can follow this renovation on her blog. Listen in to today's show to find out more about Claire, and how she uses her blog as an effective tool for marketing her business.   Today, Claire talks to LuAnn about:   How she got to do her internships with Nate Burkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors. The advantages of getting as much work experience as possible. The benefits of working for a large and well-run business, in order to gain necessary experience, to run a successful business of your own, later on. Where she found the inspiration for her blog. How she incorporates Yoga and Meditation into her design work. How she's starting to be recognized by her clients, who know that she really gets them and knows what they want. That consistency is really important with blogging. Creating blog content that readers want to come back for. Her Renovation Series- how it helps her to draw people to her website. How collaboration has really worked for her as a marketing vehicle. That she really doesn't try to sell things from her blog, yet it still makes money for her in other ways. That you should go to conferences to renew your energy, expand your horizons with blogging and keep you moving forward. The great networking opportunities that she found at the conference. How the conference has helped her to partner up with other Interior Designers, to enhance their blogs and hers. Her Spring Into Home collaboration with other design bloggers. You don't need to spend a lot of money on your blog, however, you do need to spend something, to make it look really good. Using the correct etiquette and ethics to credit the source of the photographs that you use on your blog, from the internet. An idea to help people to network better with the people that they connect with at conferences. Claire's website: www.centeredbydesign.com  http://centeredbydesign.com/spring-home-tour-week-one-doreen-corrigan/   Today's interview is the first of three, which are as a follow up to the recent Design Bloggers Conference, which was held in LA, this last March. LuAnn really loves the process of how these designers create blogs to serve as a marketing arm for their business and a lead generator for their design firm. Listen in today to get some really great, actionable tips that you can duplicate.

 

Today's guest is Claire Staszak, who won the award at the Conference for the best blog writing of 2017. She is a Chicago-based interior designer who is known for her holistic design process of combining refined aesthetics with wellness principals, as she draws on her years of experience as a Yoga and Meditation Instructor, to gently guide her clients through the process of unearthing and then refining their own, unique style, resulting in a sanctuary which is timeless, rather than trendy.

 

Claire studied Interior Design at the School of Art Institute in Chicago and she holds a Certificate of Kitchen and Bathroom Design from Harper College. She's a certified Yoga Instructor, with more than five hundred hours of training and she also has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in journalism from the University of Dayton. Claire did apprenticeships at two high-end firms- Nate Berkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors. Her own work has been featured in Design Sponge, Rue Magazine, and Domino. In 2016, she had the honor of being nominated for HD TV's Fresh Faces of Design Competition. With her latest project of renovating her own home, a 1932 Tudor Style brick bungalow in Chicago, Claire is using her own, eclectic style. You can follow this renovation on her blog. Listen in to today's show to find out more about Claire, and how she uses her blog as an effective tool for marketing her business.

 

Today, Claire talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • How she got to do her internships with Nate Burkus and Associates and Kate Marker Interiors.
  • The advantages of getting as much work experience as possible.
  • The benefits of working for a large and well-run business, in order to gain necessary experience, to run a successful business of your own, later on.
  • Where she found the inspiration for her blog.
  • How she incorporates Yoga and Meditation into her design work.
  • How she's starting to be recognized by her clients, who know that she really gets them and knows what they want.
  • That consistency is really important with blogging.
  • Creating blog content that readers want to come back for.
  • Her Renovation Series- how it helps her to draw people to her website.
  • How collaboration has really worked for her as a marketing vehicle.
  • That she really doesn't try to sell things from her blog, yet it still makes money for her in other ways.
  • That you should go to conferences to renew your energy, expand your horizons with blogging and keep you moving forward.
  • The great networking opportunities that she found at the conference.
  • How the conference has helped her to partner up with other Interior Designers, to enhance their blogs and hers.
  • Her Spring Into Home collaboration with other design bloggers.
  • You don't need to spend a lot of money on your blog, however, you do need to spend something, to make it look really good.
  • Using the correct etiquette and ethics to credit the source of the photographs that you use on your blog, from the internet.
  • An idea to help people to network better with the people that they connect with at conferences.

Claire's website: www.centeredbydesign.com

 http://centeredbydesign.com/spring-home-tour-week-one-doreen-corrigan/

 

]]> 3494 no 165: Power Talk Friday: LuAnn Nigara- The Things I Learned From A Well- Designed Business. Part 1 of Design Bloggers Conference Presentation http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/165-power-talk-friday-luann-nigara-the-things-i-learned-from-a-well-designed-business-part-1-of-design-bloggers-conference-presentation In today’s Power Talk Friday episode, I’m kicking off the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I was inspired by the conference that was held in Los Angeles in March, and I wanted to share it with you. I had to condense my presentation down to only 13 minutes for the conference, but I can take the time here to expand! I’m covering my top lessons learned through podcasting about interior design. We’ll go over the first three lessons today and cover the rest next week. Join me now! Influence and authority are gained through NICHING This subject comes up repeatedly with guests on the show Here are a few episodes in which niching was discussed: Episode 15 and 159 with Nancy Ganzekaufer —“Niche is rich!” Episode 41 with Cheryl Janis—Niching can help create a space that increases revenue Episode 106 with Taylor Spellman—She niched down her design business to target bachelors in Manhattan Episodes 82 and 117 with Deborah Rosenberg—She extended her belief system to her design business Episode 77 with Katie Deedy—She taught us about setting yourself apart, creating focus and clarity, and being able to raise your rates when you become a recognized expert Your “About You” page is CRITICAL Episodes 22, 48, and 96 with Fred Berns—Much insight into the “About You” page Episode 125 with Nicole Heymer—“I’m the interior designer that . . . “ Establish your company’s MISSION and CORE VALUES Episodes 26 and 66 with Kae Whitaker—Core values can push your business forward Episode 78 with my husband, Vince—“Everything you do must support your company’s mission.” Episode 73 with Kim Kuhteubl—Check out her book, Branding + Interior Design   Fri, 14 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara In today’s Power Talk Friday episode, I’m kicking off the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I was inspired by the conference that was held in Los Angeles in March, and I wanted to share it with you. I had to condense my presentation down... In today’s Power Talk Friday episode, I’m kicking off the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I was inspired by the conference that was held in Los Angeles in March, and I wanted to share it with you. I had to condense my presentation down to only 13 minutes for the conference, but I can take the time here to expand! I’m covering my top lessons learned through podcasting about interior design. We’ll go over the first three lessons today and cover the rest next week. Join me now! Influence and authority are gained through NICHING This subject comes up repeatedly with guests on the show Here are a few episodes in which niching was discussed: Episode 15 and 159 with Nancy Ganzekaufer —“Niche is rich!” Episode 41 with Cheryl Janis—Niching can help create a space that increases revenue Episode 106 with Taylor Spellman—She niched down her design business to target bachelors in Manhattan Episodes 82 and 117 with Deborah Rosenberg—She extended her belief system to her design business Episode 77 with Katie Deedy—She taught us about setting yourself apart, creating focus and clarity, and being able to raise your rates when you become a recognized expert Your “About You” page is CRITICAL Episodes 22, 48, and 96 with Fred Berns—Much insight into the “About You” page Episode 125 with Nicole Heymer—“I’m the interior designer that . . . “ Establish your company’s MISSION and CORE VALUES Episodes 26 and 66 with Kae Whitaker—Core values can push your business forward Episode 78 with my husband, Vince—“Everything you do must support your company’s mission.” Episode 73 with Kim Kuhteubl—Check out her book, Branding + Interior Design   In today’s Power Talk Friday episode, I’m kicking off the Design Bloggers Conference Summary series. I was inspired by the conference that was held in Los Angeles in March, and I wanted to share it with you. I had to condense my presentation down to only 13 minutes for the conference, but I can take the time here to expand! I’m covering my top lessons learned through podcasting about interior design. We’ll go over the first three lessons today and cover the rest next week. Join me now!

Influence and authority are gained through NICHING

  • This subject comes up repeatedly with guests on the show
  • Here are a few episodes in which niching was discussed:
    • Episode 15 and 159 with Nancy Ganzekaufer —“Niche is rich!”
    • Episode 41 with Cheryl Janis—Niching can help create a space that increases revenue
    • Episode 106 with Taylor Spellman—She niched down her design business to target bachelors in Manhattan
    • Episodes 82 and 117 with Deborah Rosenberg—She extended her belief system to her design business
    • Episode 77 with Katie Deedy—She taught us about setting yourself apart, creating focus and clarity, and being able to raise your rates when you become a recognized expert
  • Your “About You” page is CRITICAL
    • Episodes 22, 48, and 96 with Fred Berns—Much insight into the “About You” page
    • Episode 125 with Nicole Heymer—“I’m the interior designer that . . . “
  • Establish your company’s MISSION and CORE VALUES
    • Episodes 26 and 66 with Kae Whitaker—Core values can push your business forward
    • Episode 78 with my husband, Vince—“Everything you do must support your company’s mission.”
    • Episode 73 with Kim Kuhteubl—Check out her book, Branding + Interior Design

 

]]> 2943 no 164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/164-susan-wintersteen-savvy-giving-by-design If you think your life is busy, get ready to meet Susan Winterstein, of Savvy Interiors, in San Diego, California. As well as running an Interior Design Firm, she also has Inside Savvy, a Retail Store and Savvy Giving By Design, a non-profit organization. Susan also has a husband and five daughters. Listen in today, to an awesome conversation with a remarkable woman.   On today's show, the focus is on her non-profit, Savvy Giving By Design. LuAnn is truly overwhelmed with what Susan is doing. She points out that even though there are other designers who are involved with different ways of helping out and giving back, Susan has turned her business into a full on Non- profit Organisation of her own, with an extremely organized platform. Listen in to find out more.   Today, Susan talks to LuAnn about:   What drew her to turn her business into a Non-profit Organisation and how she started out with it. Why she keeps her Facebook Group small and intimate and runs it the way that she does. How she went about finding another child for her project, after the first one and the whole process that followed that. How she got started as an official Non-profit Organisation. Her goal of tapping into bigger and better vendor relationships. How hard it is to get corporate attention onto her projects. Putting out the Funder Needs - why this is critical when you're in your social media community and the success that Susan has had with it. Although they rely on donations, there are certain things which have to be paid for- like painters. If the child that Susan is creating a space for has siblings, she does their rooms as well. What goes into the decision of who the next child will be to receive her tremendous gift. That she's willing to assist other designers to do as she does with Savvy Giving By Design, even if they're located in other states. The grounding effect that working with people who would not normally use the services of a designer, has on designers. How she would love to see designers helping designers to do something to pay it forward. Links: The main website for Susan's Non-profit: www.savvygivingbydesign.org Susan's website: http://www.savvyinteriors.com Susan's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SavvyGivingbyDesign/ Susan on social media: Youtube Instagram: @Savvy Giving By Design Wed, 12 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you think your life is busy, get ready to meet Susan Winterstein, of Savvy Interiors, in San Diego, California. As well as running an Interior Design Firm, she also has Inside Savvy, a Retail Store and Savvy Giving By Design, a non-profit... If you think your life is busy, get ready to meet Susan Winterstein, of Savvy Interiors, in San Diego, California. As well as running an Interior Design Firm, she also has Inside Savvy, a Retail Store and Savvy Giving By Design, a non-profit organization. Susan also has a husband and five daughters. Listen in today, to an awesome conversation with a remarkable woman.   On today's show, the focus is on her non-profit, Savvy Giving By Design. LuAnn is truly overwhelmed with what Susan is doing. She points out that even though there are other designers who are involved with different ways of helping out and giving back, Susan has turned her business into a full on Non- profit Organisation of her own, with an extremely organized platform. Listen in to find out more.   Today, Susan talks to LuAnn about:   What drew her to turn her business into a Non-profit Organisation and how she started out with it. Why she keeps her Facebook Group small and intimate and runs it the way that she does. How she went about finding another child for her project, after the first one and the whole process that followed that. How she got started as an official Non-profit Organisation. Her goal of tapping into bigger and better vendor relationships. How hard it is to get corporate attention onto her projects. Putting out the Funder Needs - why this is critical when you're in your social media community and the success that Susan has had with it. Although they rely on donations, there are certain things which have to be paid for- like painters. If the child that Susan is creating a space for has siblings, she does their rooms as well. What goes into the decision of who the next child will be to receive her tremendous gift. That she's willing to assist other designers to do as she does with Savvy Giving By Design, even if they're located in other states. The grounding effect that working with people who would not normally use the services of a designer, has on designers. How she would love to see designers helping designers to do something to pay it forward. Links: The main website for Susan's Non-profit: www.savvygivingbydesign.org Susan's website: http://www.savvyinteriors.com Susan's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SavvyGivingbyDesign/ Susan on social media: Youtube Instagram: @Savvy Giving By Design If you think your life is busy, get ready to meet Susan Winterstein, of Savvy Interiors, in San Diego, California. As well as running an Interior Design Firm, she also has Inside Savvy, a Retail Store and Savvy Giving By Design, a non-profit organization. Susan also has a husband and five daughters. Listen in today, to an awesome conversation with a remarkable woman.

 

On today's show, the focus is on her non-profit, Savvy Giving By Design. LuAnn is truly overwhelmed with what Susan is doing. She points out that even though there are other designers who are involved with different ways of helping out and giving back, Susan has turned her business into a full on Non- profit Organisation of her own, with an extremely organized platform. Listen in to find out more.

 

Today, Susan talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • What drew her to turn her business into a Non-profit Organisation and how she started out with it.
  • Why she keeps her Facebook Group small and intimate and runs it the way that she does.
  • How she went about finding another child for her project, after the first one and the whole process that followed that.
  • How she got started as an official Non-profit Organisation.
  • Her goal of tapping into bigger and better vendor relationships.
  • How hard it is to get corporate attention onto her projects.
  • Putting out the Funder Needs - why this is critical when you're in your social media community and the success that Susan has had with it.
  • Although they rely on donations, there are certain things which have to be paid for- like painters.
  • If the child that Susan is creating a space for has siblings, she does their rooms as well.
  • What goes into the decision of who the next child will be to receive her tremendous gift.
  • That she's willing to assist other designers to do as she does with Savvy Giving By Design, even if they're located in other states.
  • The grounding effect that working with people who would not normally use the services of a designer, has on designers.
  • How she would love to see designers helping designers to do something to pay it forward.

Links:

The main website for Susan's Non-profit: www.savvygivingbydesign.org

Susan's website: http://www.savvyinteriors.com

Susan's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SavvyGivingbyDesign/

Susan on social media: Youtube

Instagram: @Savvy Giving By Design

]]> 3786 no 163: Highlyann Krasnow - Talking About Commercial Design with the Founder of Design High & Partner of MNS Real Estate http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/163-highlyann-krasnow-talking-about-commercial-design-with-the-founder-of-design-high-partner-of-mns-real-estate My guest for today’s exciting show is Highlyann Krasnow, one of the founders of The Developers Group, now MNS, located in Brooklyn, NY. Not only did she oversee the design of her company’s buildings and sales offices, but then she opened The Design High, the exclusive interior design arm at MNS. Highlyann is involved in commercial interiors and residential projects, but the focus of our conversation today is on the commercial side of her business. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: The path from real estate development to The Design High Benefits to “casting a wider net” Interior design concepts for commercial spaces Challenges in designing for the target demographic How to hone your commercial design skills The key: relationships with manufacturers Tips for the designer seeking a career in commercial design How to “let go” of some of your design elements Why you need to be a design chameleon The payoff for a designer The mood board test HIghlyann uses for hiring designers The commitment to eco-friendly designs: Why is it so important? Understanding the “durability” of your design: it’s NOT just for today! Highlyann’s recent and current projects and their specific challenges Carrying the design thread through the project as a whole Resources: www.thedesignhigh.com (Highlyann’s website) Email Highlyann: hsk@mns.com www.cherish.com/trade Mon, 10 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest for today’s exciting show is Highlyann Krasnow, one of the founders of The Developers Group, now MNS, located in Brooklyn, NY. Not only did she oversee the design of her company’s buildings and sales offices, but then she opened The... My guest for today’s exciting show is Highlyann Krasnow, one of the founders of The Developers Group, now MNS, located in Brooklyn, NY. Not only did she oversee the design of her company’s buildings and sales offices, but then she opened The Design High, the exclusive interior design arm at MNS. Highlyann is involved in commercial interiors and residential projects, but the focus of our conversation today is on the commercial side of her business. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: The path from real estate development to The Design High Benefits to “casting a wider net” Interior design concepts for commercial spaces Challenges in designing for the target demographic How to hone your commercial design skills The key: relationships with manufacturers Tips for the designer seeking a career in commercial design How to “let go” of some of your design elements Why you need to be a design chameleon The payoff for a designer The mood board test HIghlyann uses for hiring designers The commitment to eco-friendly designs: Why is it so important? Understanding the “durability” of your design: it’s NOT just for today! Highlyann’s recent and current projects and their specific challenges Carrying the design thread through the project as a whole Resources: www.thedesignhigh.com (Highlyann’s website) Email Highlyann: hsk@mns.com www.cherish.com/trade My guest for today’s exciting show is Highlyann Krasnow, one of the founders of The Developers Group, now MNS, located in Brooklyn, NY. Not only did she oversee the design of her company’s buildings and sales offices, but then she opened The Design High, the exclusive interior design arm at MNS. Highlyann is involved in commercial interiors and residential projects, but the focus of our conversation today is on the commercial side of her business. Join us!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • The path from real estate development to The Design High
  • Benefits to “casting a wider net”
  • Interior design concepts for commercial spaces
  • Challenges in designing for the target demographic
  • How to hone your commercial design skills
  • The key: relationships with manufacturers
  • Tips for the designer seeking a career in commercial design
  • How to “let go” of some of your design elements
  • Why you need to be a design chameleon
  • The payoff for a designer
  • The mood board test HIghlyann uses for hiring designers
  • The commitment to eco-friendly designs: Why is it so important?
  • Understanding the “durability” of your design: it’s NOT just for today!
  • Highlyann’s recent and current projects and their specific challenges
  • Carrying the design thread through the project as a whole

Resources:

www.thedesignhigh.com (Highlyann’s website)

Email Highlyann: hsk@mns.com

www.cherish.com/trade

]]> 3017 no 162: Power Talk Friday - Natalie Norcross - The Dynamic Leader of A Design Partnership http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-natalie-norcross-the-dynamic-leader-of-a-design-partnership The guest on today's show is Natalie Norcross, the dynamic founder and CEO of A Design Partnership, which is a Premier National Marketing and PR Agency. Natalie herself has appeared in Boutique design, Esquire, Hospitality Design, Access Hollywood, E Entertainment, Television, and Extra. Listen in today and learn about some great strategies and marketing tips from Natalie. Natalie started her career as an Interior Designer, after which she built, then in 2008, sold, a highly successful firm, specializing in both Residential and Hospitality. Fellow designers in Architectural Firms then began asking for her help with generating leads, media placements, and marketing tools. That was how A Design Partnership started out. The agency, with Natalie, her two partners and a staff of nine high-powered designers and marketing experts has really grown over the last nine years. Listen to today's show to find out more about how this energetic group, who are passionate about helping design-minded companies to exceed their goals, transform their brands and evolve their businesses, work to create success.   Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about:   The businesses that were started by her mother and her grandmother, who were both entrepreneurs and both a great inspiration to Natalie. How she and other parents can lead their children and inspire them to develop positive work ethics, through their own example. Her successful design firm, which she sold in 2008 and what she learned from it. How having really good systems in place works, to catapult your business to wild success. The process of creating an exit strategy for your business. The power of having a team which is focused on the same mission. Some advice for people who are working on their brands. The DISC Profile tool, to help you get more clear as to who you really are, as a human being, to help you build focus, a mission, and a vision. The 5 Why's and how this can help you to get to the core of your beliefs. The difference between Inbound and Outbound Marketing. Great ways to drive traffic to your website. How, in the last six months, her company has grown five of their client's Instagram followers to over 15 000. Great ways to help your business to grow, using social media. The value in having blog posts on your website. Using the Ladder Up Strategy, for PR. Great tips for pitching for publications. Natalie's finite system for keeping her entire company on that train. Natalie's website: www.adesignpartnership.com Fri, 07 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara The guest on today's show is Natalie Norcross, the dynamic founder and CEO of A Design Partnership, which is a Premier National Marketing and PR Agency. Natalie herself has appeared in Boutique design, Esquire, Hospitality Design, Access Hollywood, E... The guest on today's show is Natalie Norcross, the dynamic founder and CEO of A Design Partnership, which is a Premier National Marketing and PR Agency. Natalie herself has appeared in Boutique design, Esquire, Hospitality Design, Access Hollywood, E Entertainment, Television, and Extra. Listen in today and learn about some great strategies and marketing tips from Natalie. Natalie started her career as an Interior Designer, after which she built, then in 2008, sold, a highly successful firm, specializing in both Residential and Hospitality. Fellow designers in Architectural Firms then began asking for her help with generating leads, media placements, and marketing tools. That was how A Design Partnership started out. The agency, with Natalie, her two partners and a staff of nine high-powered designers and marketing experts has really grown over the last nine years. Listen to today's show to find out more about how this energetic group, who are passionate about helping design-minded companies to exceed their goals, transform their brands and evolve their businesses, work to create success.   Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about:   The businesses that were started by her mother and her grandmother, who were both entrepreneurs and both a great inspiration to Natalie. How she and other parents can lead their children and inspire them to develop positive work ethics, through their own example. Her successful design firm, which she sold in 2008 and what she learned from it. How having really good systems in place works, to catapult your business to wild success. The process of creating an exit strategy for your business. The power of having a team which is focused on the same mission. Some advice for people who are working on their brands. The DISC Profile tool, to help you get more clear as to who you really are, as a human being, to help you build focus, a mission, and a vision. The 5 Why's and how this can help you to get to the core of your beliefs. The difference between Inbound and Outbound Marketing. Great ways to drive traffic to your website. How, in the last six months, her company has grown five of their client's Instagram followers to over 15 000. Great ways to help your business to grow, using social media. The value in having blog posts on your website. Using the Ladder Up Strategy, for PR. Great tips for pitching for publications. Natalie's finite system for keeping her entire company on that train. Natalie's website: www.adesignpartnership.com The guest on today's show is Natalie Norcross, the dynamic founder and CEO of A Design Partnership, which is a Premier National Marketing and PR Agency. Natalie herself has appeared in Boutique design, Esquire, Hospitality Design, Access Hollywood, E Entertainment, Television, and Extra. Listen in today and learn about some great strategies and marketing tips from Natalie.

Natalie started her career as an Interior Designer, after which she built, then in 2008, sold, a highly successful firm, specializing in both Residential and Hospitality. Fellow designers in Architectural Firms then began asking for her help with generating leads, media placements, and marketing tools. That was how A Design Partnership started out. The agency, with Natalie, her two partners and a staff of nine high-powered designers and marketing experts has really grown over the last nine years. Listen to today's show to find out more about how this energetic group, who are passionate about helping design-minded companies to exceed their goals, transform their brands and evolve their businesses, work to create success.

 

Today, Natalie talks to LuAnn about:

 

  • The businesses that were started by her mother and her grandmother, who were both entrepreneurs and both a great inspiration to Natalie.
  • How she and other parents can lead their children and inspire them to develop positive work ethics, through their own example.
  • Her successful design firm, which she sold in 2008 and what she learned from it.
  • How having really good systems in place works, to catapult your business to wild success.
  • The process of creating an exit strategy for your business.
  • The power of having a team which is focused on the same mission.
  • Some advice for people who are working on their brands.
  • The DISC Profile tool, to help you get more clear as to who you really are, as a human being, to help you build focus, a mission, and a vision.
  • The 5 Why's and how this can help you to get to the core of your beliefs.
  • The difference between Inbound and Outbound Marketing.
  • Great ways to drive traffic to your website.
  • How, in the last six months, her company has grown five of their client's Instagram followers to over 15 000.
  • Great ways to help your business to grow, using social media.
  • The value in having blog posts on your website.
  • Using the Ladder Up Strategy, for PR.
  • Great tips for pitching for publications.
  • Natalie's finite system for keeping her entire company on that train.

Natalie's website: www.adesignpartnership.com

]]> 3675 no 161: Karina Jones - Educating and Inspiring Clients and Colleagues http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/161-karina-jones-educating-and-inspiring-clients-and-colleagues You may remember on episode 110 when Mark McDonough was on the show and he talked about his blog, Tastefully Inspired. Today we are going to be talking with Karina Jones who is a contributor plus an interior designer on Mark’s Tastefully Inspired blog. Karina holds degrees in communication in arts and education. She is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has her own full serviced firm that she founded in Charlotte, North Carolina: Karina Jones Designs and also has her own blog that she uses to educate people on the different aspects of design. Design is visual and Karina is going to talk with us on how she and Mark use the Tastefully Inspired blog to bring the visual to a blog. Show Notes: Learn how you can use an education degree to help you and your client have a better relationship Find out the three things that should always be included in a blog Learn the secret to Mark and Karina’s key to success on the blog they have together, Tastefully Inspired Learn what the key component to the final product of a blog is Understand the importance of balance of family is important and how this works out for Karina and Mark Hear why having a schedule for a blog is not always best Discover how to enhance your learning from this episode Resources: superiorinteriorsbykj.com tastefullyinspired.com Wed, 05 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara You may remember on episode 110 when Mark McDonough was on the show and he talked about his blog, Tastefully Inspired. Today we are going to be talking with Karina Jones who is a contributor plus an interior designer on Mark’s Tastefully Inspired... You may remember on episode 110 when Mark McDonough was on the show and he talked about his blog, Tastefully Inspired. Today we are going to be talking with Karina Jones who is a contributor plus an interior designer on Mark’s Tastefully Inspired blog. Karina holds degrees in communication in arts and education. She is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has her own full serviced firm that she founded in Charlotte, North Carolina: Karina Jones Designs and also has her own blog that she uses to educate people on the different aspects of design. Design is visual and Karina is going to talk with us on how she and Mark use the Tastefully Inspired blog to bring the visual to a blog. Show Notes: Learn how you can use an education degree to help you and your client have a better relationship Find out the three things that should always be included in a blog Learn the secret to Mark and Karina’s key to success on the blog they have together, Tastefully Inspired Learn what the key component to the final product of a blog is Understand the importance of balance of family is important and how this works out for Karina and Mark Hear why having a schedule for a blog is not always best Discover how to enhance your learning from this episode Resources: superiorinteriorsbykj.com tastefullyinspired.com You may remember on episode 110 when Mark McDonough was on the show and he talked about his blog, Tastefully Inspired. Today we are going to be talking with Karina Jones who is a contributor plus an interior designer on Mark’s Tastefully Inspired blog. Karina holds degrees in communication in arts and education.

She is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has her own full serviced firm that she founded in Charlotte, North Carolina: Karina Jones Designs and also has her own blog that she uses to educate people on the different aspects of design. Design is visual and Karina is going to talk with us on how she and Mark use the Tastefully Inspired blog to bring the visual to a blog.

Show Notes:

  • Learn how you can use an education degree to help you and your client have a better relationship
  • Find out the three things that should always be included in a blog
  • Learn the secret to Mark and Karina’s key to success on the blog they have together, Tastefully Inspired
  • Learn what the key component to the final product of a blog is
  • Understand the importance of balance of family is important and how this works out for Karina and Mark
  • Hear why having a schedule for a blog is not always best
  • Discover how to enhance your learning from this episode

Resources:

]]> 3416 no 160: Kelli Ellis - Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/160-kelli-ellis-live-and-learn-by-the-rock-star-principles I have the original Rockstar interior designer on the show today, Kelli Ellis! I know we all know Kelli as an interior designer because she has been published in national magazines. It’s likely that you have seen her on TLCs show Clean Sweep as the featured designer, HGTVs Take Over My Makeover and many more. In addition to being an accomplished interior designer, featured in many publications and on TV, she is a certified life coach and a design psychology coach.  She received her certification in interior design for the Interior Design Institute in California and she also holds a BA in Marketing from California State University of Fullerton, a law school education from Western State University and a Liberal Arts education for the University of London. On top of all of this, she is on the board of directors for Miracles for Kids lending her name and time to this passion project which is aiding the children in Orange County in need.  Show Notes: What is the certified design psychology program that Kelli started? What are the three “F’s”? Why is knowing the psychology of color important? How long is the design psychology course? What is included in the course? What is a Mevo camera? What does she mean “get rid of the extras”? How does Kelli find time to be an artist too? What are some ways to avoid killing the relationship between the designer and client?   Resources: www.mydomastudio.com  Do I Look Skinny in this House? www.kelliellis.com www.instagram.com/designerkelliellis  www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.spencerinstitute.com    Mon, 03 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have the original Rockstar interior designer on the show today, Kelli Ellis! I know we all know Kelli as an interior designer because she has been published in national magazines. It’s likely that you have seen her on TLCs show Clean Sweep as the... I have the original Rockstar interior designer on the show today, Kelli Ellis! I know we all know Kelli as an interior designer because she has been published in national magazines. It’s likely that you have seen her on TLCs show Clean Sweep as the featured designer, HGTVs Take Over My Makeover and many more. In addition to being an accomplished interior designer, featured in many publications and on TV, she is a certified life coach and a design psychology coach.  She received her certification in interior design for the Interior Design Institute in California and she also holds a BA in Marketing from California State University of Fullerton, a law school education from Western State University and a Liberal Arts education for the University of London. On top of all of this, she is on the board of directors for Miracles for Kids lending her name and time to this passion project which is aiding the children in Orange County in need.  Show Notes: What is the certified design psychology program that Kelli started? What are the three “F’s”? Why is knowing the psychology of color important? How long is the design psychology course? What is included in the course? What is a Mevo camera? What does she mean “get rid of the extras”? How does Kelli find time to be an artist too? What are some ways to avoid killing the relationship between the designer and client?   Resources: www.mydomastudio.com  Do I Look Skinny in this House? www.kelliellis.com www.instagram.com/designerkelliellis  www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.spencerinstitute.com    I have the original Rockstar interior designer on the show today, Kelli Ellis! I know we all know Kelli as an interior designer because she has been published in national magazines. It’s likely that you have seen her on TLCs show Clean Sweep as the featured designer, HGTVs Take Over My Makeover and many more. In addition to being an accomplished interior designer, featured in many publications and on TV, she is a certified life coach and a design psychology coach. 

She received her certification in interior design for the Interior Design Institute in California and she also holds a BA in Marketing from California State University of Fullerton, a law school education from Western State University and a Liberal Arts education for the University of London. On top of all of this, she is on the board of directors for Miracles for Kids lending her name and time to this passion project which is aiding the children in Orange County in need. 

Show Notes:

  • What is the certified design psychology program that Kelli started?
  • What are the three “F’s”?
  • Why is knowing the psychology of color important?
  • How long is the design psychology course?
  • What is included in the course?
  • What is a Mevo camera?
  • What does she mean “get rid of the extras”?
  • How does Kelli find time to be an artist too?
  • What are some ways to avoid killing the relationship between the designer and client?

 

Resources:

www.mydomastudio.com 

Do I Look Skinny in this House?

www.kelliellis.com

www.instagram.com/designerkelliellis 

www.thebusinessofdesign.com 

www.spencerinstitute.com 

 

]]> 3509 no 159: Power Talk Friday - Nancy Ganzekaufer - How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/159-power-talk-friday-nancy-ganzekaufer-how-to-get-confident-clear-on-what-you-offer We’re back with another power talk Friday on A Well-Designed Business! I have Nancy Ganzekaufer back with me today! If you are new to the podcast Nancy was on the show in the very beginning on episode 15. On that show we talked about her background, business background and “niche is rich”. She has so much she can teach us and you should really go back listen to her episode. She is a life and business coach and the founder of “Your Business Partner”. Through her life and work she empowers women entrepreneurs to create the life and business they have always wanted.  She understands the unique challenges that women entrepreneurs face when trying to pursue their dreams and leads by example with her hard work, encouragement and her no BS leadership style. Show Notes: How does Nancy use her survey? How often should you take a survey? How many and what are the categories in a three-year vision? What should you be asking yourself and be planning for a one year plan? How many marketing outlets should you be looking at one time? Why should you write things down instead of just thinking them? What should be included in your 90-day strategy? In what intervals, should you block out at a time on your calendars to get stuff done? Why is it so important to be loud and clear about what you offer? When should you walk away from a client? How and what are some ways to walk away from a client that wants to hire you but not a good fit for you? When should you say yes to everything? What does she have coming new this summer? Resources: www.nancyganzekaufer.com nancy@nancyganzekaufer.com Fri, 31 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We’re back with another power talk Friday on A Well-Designed Business! I have Nancy Ganzekaufer back with me today! If you are new to the podcast Nancy was on the show in the very beginning on episode 15. On that show we talked about her background,... We’re back with another power talk Friday on A Well-Designed Business! I have Nancy Ganzekaufer back with me today! If you are new to the podcast Nancy was on the show in the very beginning on episode 15. On that show we talked about her background, business background and “niche is rich”. She has so much she can teach us and you should really go back listen to her episode. She is a life and business coach and the founder of “Your Business Partner”. Through her life and work she empowers women entrepreneurs to create the life and business they have always wanted.  She understands the unique challenges that women entrepreneurs face when trying to pursue their dreams and leads by example with her hard work, encouragement and her no BS leadership style. Show Notes: How does Nancy use her survey? How often should you take a survey? How many and what are the categories in a three-year vision? What should you be asking yourself and be planning for a one year plan? How many marketing outlets should you be looking at one time? Why should you write things down instead of just thinking them? What should be included in your 90-day strategy? In what intervals, should you block out at a time on your calendars to get stuff done? Why is it so important to be loud and clear about what you offer? When should you walk away from a client? How and what are some ways to walk away from a client that wants to hire you but not a good fit for you? When should you say yes to everything? What does she have coming new this summer? Resources: www.nancyganzekaufer.com nancy@nancyganzekaufer.com We’re back with another power talk Friday on A Well-Designed Business! I have Nancy Ganzekaufer back with me today! If you are new to the podcast Nancy was on the show in the very beginning on episode 15. On that show we talked about her background, business background and “niche is rich”. She has so much she can teach us and you should really go back listen to her episode. She is a life and business coach and the founder of “Your Business Partner”. Through her life and work she empowers women entrepreneurs to create the life and business they have always wanted.  She understands the unique challenges that women entrepreneurs face when trying to pursue their dreams and leads by example with her hard work, encouragement and her no BS leadership style.

Show Notes:

  • How does Nancy use her survey?
  • How often should you take a survey?
  • How many and what are the categories in a three-year vision?
  • What should you be asking yourself and be planning for a one year plan?
  • How many marketing outlets should you be looking at one time?
  • Why should you write things down instead of just thinking them?
  • What should be included in your 90-day strategy?
  • In what intervals, should you block out at a time on your calendars to get stuff done?
  • Why is it so important to be loud and clear about what you offer?
  • When should you walk away from a client?
  • How and what are some ways to walk away from a client that wants to hire you but not a good fit for you?
  • When should you say yes to everything?
  • What does she have coming new this summer?

Resources:

www.nancyganzekaufer.com

nancy@nancyganzekaufer.com

]]> 3824 no 158: Rhea Mader - Tumbleweed Interiors and Co-Host of The Wellness Design Podcast http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/158-rhea-mader-tumbleweed-interiors-and-co-host-of-the-wellness-design-podcast Today on the show I have Rhea Mader! Rhea is the principal of Tumbleweed Interiors in Kansas and an interior designer who specializes in health care facilities. Rhea provides sustainable designs that improve better quality of life, cost effective, eco-friendly and evidence-based design. Her goal is to see patients and residents live independently with hope and dignity. Rhea earned her BFA/IFA at the Academy of Art University in California and she is also LEED and CLIPP certified. Rhea and I met through Cheryl Janice, who if you are an avid listener of this podcast you know who Cheryl Janice is. She was one of the first guests that talked to us about how she specifically walked away from being a generalist designer into a specialist. I use her as an example a lot! If you are new to the show, please go and listen to episode 41 after this episode because it will really fill in the spaces that we take for granted that Rhea and I talk about. Show Notes: What is the name of Rhea and Cheryl’s new podcast? What is the new podcast going to be about and what audience is the podcast focused towards? What key elements would help create a better environment? What is an evidence-based design? How Rhea and Cheryl meet each other? Where did Rhea work after she got out of school and what did she discover while at this job? What is clip? When did Rhea realize she wanted to specialize in healthcare design? How did it effect Rhea not having a mentor? How did joining a mastermind help Rhea? What process did Rhea go through to rebrand? How often does she create a newsletter for her marketing? What is Rhea’s “avatar”? Resources: www.chairish.com www.tumbleweed-interiors.com www.wellnessdesignpodcast.com www.socialitesubscribe.com Wed, 29 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I have Rhea Mader! Rhea is the principal of Tumbleweed Interiors in Kansas and an interior designer who specializes in health care facilities. Rhea provides sustainable designs that improve better quality of life, cost effective,... Today on the show I have Rhea Mader! Rhea is the principal of Tumbleweed Interiors in Kansas and an interior designer who specializes in health care facilities. Rhea provides sustainable designs that improve better quality of life, cost effective, eco-friendly and evidence-based design. Her goal is to see patients and residents live independently with hope and dignity. Rhea earned her BFA/IFA at the Academy of Art University in California and she is also LEED and CLIPP certified. Rhea and I met through Cheryl Janice, who if you are an avid listener of this podcast you know who Cheryl Janice is. She was one of the first guests that talked to us about how she specifically walked away from being a generalist designer into a specialist. I use her as an example a lot! If you are new to the show, please go and listen to episode 41 after this episode because it will really fill in the spaces that we take for granted that Rhea and I talk about. Show Notes: What is the name of Rhea and Cheryl’s new podcast? What is the new podcast going to be about and what audience is the podcast focused towards? What key elements would help create a better environment? What is an evidence-based design? How Rhea and Cheryl meet each other? Where did Rhea work after she got out of school and what did she discover while at this job? What is clip? When did Rhea realize she wanted to specialize in healthcare design? How did it effect Rhea not having a mentor? How did joining a mastermind help Rhea? What process did Rhea go through to rebrand? How often does she create a newsletter for her marketing? What is Rhea’s “avatar”? Resources: www.chairish.com www.tumbleweed-interiors.com www.wellnessdesignpodcast.com www.socialitesubscribe.com Today on the show I have Rhea Mader! Rhea is the principal of Tumbleweed Interiors in Kansas and an interior designer who specializes in health care facilities. Rhea provides sustainable designs that improve better quality of life, cost effective, eco-friendly and evidence-based design. Her goal is to see patients and residents live independently with hope and dignity. Rhea earned her BFA/IFA at the Academy of Art University in California and she is also LEED and CLIPP certified. Rhea and I met through Cheryl Janice, who if you are an avid listener of this podcast you know who Cheryl Janice is. She was one of the first guests that talked to us about how she specifically walked away from being a generalist designer into a specialist. I use her as an example a lot! If you are new to the show, please go and listen to episode 41 after this episode because it will really fill in the spaces that we take for granted that Rhea and I talk about.

Show Notes:

  • What is the name of Rhea and Cheryl’s new podcast?
  • What is the new podcast going to be about and what audience is the podcast focused towards?
  • What key elements would help create a better environment?
  • What is an evidence-based design?
  • How Rhea and Cheryl meet each other?
  • Where did Rhea work after she got out of school and what did she discover while at this job?
  • What is clip?
  • When did Rhea realize she wanted to specialize in healthcare design?
  • How did it effect Rhea not having a mentor?
  • How did joining a mastermind help Rhea?
  • What process did Rhea go through to rebrand?
  • How often does she create a newsletter for her marketing?
  • What is Rhea’s “avatar”?

Resources:

www.chairish.com

www.tumbleweed-interiors.com

www.wellnessdesignpodcast.com

www.socialitesubscribe.com

]]> 3762 no 157: Charmaine Wynter - How to Niche in Small Space Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/157-charmaine-wynter-how-to-niche-in-small-space-design My guest today is Charmaine Wynter, the principal of Wynter Interiors and the owner of Bespoke Design Boutique in Texas. You may already know Charmaine because she is one very busy lady! She is a radio show host of The Living Well show, a speaker, HGTV design host pioneer and you may know her from her design advice column, Ask the decorator. In addition to all of this, Charmaine is a firm believer in paying it forward. She has been involved in several charities and has sat on universities and government advisory boards to help shape the interior design industry. Today we are going to discuss the design niches of designing for small spaces.  Show Notes: What are the particular ways to approach a small room design? Why is color so important for smaller spaces? What are the key questions to ask your client when designing a smaller space? What size furniture should be used in these smaller spaces? How can you create visual depth? What is designing vertical? Is there any part of the curriculum in design school that teaches how to design smaller spaces? Where can designers learn more about designing these smaller spaces? What is the Living Well Show about? Where can you listen to Charmaine’s show? What does the word boutique mean? How did she get into the niche of boutique work? How are her packages set up? Resources: www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.wynterinteriors.com  www.mydomastudio.com Mon, 27 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara My guest today is Charmaine Wynter, the principal of Wynter Interiors and the owner of Bespoke Design Boutique in Texas. You may already know Charmaine because she is one very busy lady! She is a radio show host of The Living Well show, a speaker,... My guest today is Charmaine Wynter, the principal of Wynter Interiors and the owner of Bespoke Design Boutique in Texas. You may already know Charmaine because she is one very busy lady! She is a radio show host of The Living Well show, a speaker, HGTV design host pioneer and you may know her from her design advice column, Ask the decorator. In addition to all of this, Charmaine is a firm believer in paying it forward. She has been involved in several charities and has sat on universities and government advisory boards to help shape the interior design industry. Today we are going to discuss the design niches of designing for small spaces.  Show Notes: What are the particular ways to approach a small room design? Why is color so important for smaller spaces? What are the key questions to ask your client when designing a smaller space? What size furniture should be used in these smaller spaces? How can you create visual depth? What is designing vertical? Is there any part of the curriculum in design school that teaches how to design smaller spaces? Where can designers learn more about designing these smaller spaces? What is the Living Well Show about? Where can you listen to Charmaine’s show? What does the word boutique mean? How did she get into the niche of boutique work? How are her packages set up? Resources: www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.wynterinteriors.com  www.mydomastudio.com My guest today is Charmaine Wynter, the principal of Wynter Interiors and the owner of Bespoke Design Boutique in Texas. You may already know Charmaine because she is one very busy lady! She is a radio show host of The Living Well show, a speaker, HGTV design host pioneer and you may know her from her design advice column, Ask the decorator. In addition to all of this, Charmaine is a firm believer in paying it forward. She has been involved in several charities and has sat on universities and government advisory boards to help shape the interior design industry. Today we are going to discuss the design niches of designing for small spaces. 

Show Notes:

  • What are the particular ways to approach a small room design?
  • Why is color so important for smaller spaces?
  • What are the key questions to ask your client when designing a smaller space?
  • What size furniture should be used in these smaller spaces?
  • How can you create visual depth?
  • What is designing vertical?
  • Is there any part of the curriculum in design school that teaches how to design smaller spaces?
  • Where can designers learn more about designing these smaller spaces?
  • What is the Living Well Show about?
  • Where can you listen to Charmaine’s show?
  • What does the word boutique mean?
  • How did she get into the niche of boutique work?
  • How are her packages set up?

Resources:

www.thebusinessofdesign.com 

www.wynterinteriors.com 

www.mydomastudio.com

]]> 4110 no 156: Power Talk Friday: Carmen Torres- Human Resource Specialist http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/156-power-talk-friday-carmen-torres-human-resource-specialist-0 It’s time for another power talk Friday! I am happy to say that I have Carmen Torres with me today! Carmen Torres is a HR specialist. She has over twenty years in experience helping employers create equitable and safe work space environments for both employers and employees. She is a trusted advisor to many organizations and has helped many small to midsize businesses and non-profits produce reliable and stable HR departments.  She has a 360 analysis of the human resource function that results in building job descriptions, policy and procedure manuals, conflict resolution, employee retention, employee termination structures, compliance, audits and standards and employee communications. This is for everybody whether you have fifty employees or just one. You need to know these procedures so that an employee can’t come back and sue you.  Show Notes: What should a business owner be looking for on a candidate’s resume? Are there red flags on a resume to look for? How should you approach calling references? What do you do when you have a hard time trying to get in contact with a reference? What can you say legally if you don’t have a great reference to give about a previous employee? What are some different ways to give a reference? How do you have the conversation with an employee that is not right for the job? What sorts of the things should be discussed when talking to an employee that is not meeting expectations? When should an employer talk to an employee about their performance if it’s not where it needs to be? Resources: www.myhrspecialist.com Fri, 24 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s time for another power talk Friday! I am happy to say that I have Carmen Torres with me today! Carmen Torres is a HR specialist. She has over twenty years in experience helping employers create equitable and safe work space environments for... It’s time for another power talk Friday! I am happy to say that I have Carmen Torres with me today! Carmen Torres is a HR specialist. She has over twenty years in experience helping employers create equitable and safe work space environments for both employers and employees. She is a trusted advisor to many organizations and has helped many small to midsize businesses and non-profits produce reliable and stable HR departments.  She has a 360 analysis of the human resource function that results in building job descriptions, policy and procedure manuals, conflict resolution, employee retention, employee termination structures, compliance, audits and standards and employee communications. This is for everybody whether you have fifty employees or just one. You need to know these procedures so that an employee can’t come back and sue you.  Show Notes: What should a business owner be looking for on a candidate’s resume? Are there red flags on a resume to look for? How should you approach calling references? What do you do when you have a hard time trying to get in contact with a reference? What can you say legally if you don’t have a great reference to give about a previous employee? What are some different ways to give a reference? How do you have the conversation with an employee that is not right for the job? What sorts of the things should be discussed when talking to an employee that is not meeting expectations? When should an employer talk to an employee about their performance if it’s not where it needs to be? Resources: www.myhrspecialist.com It’s time for another power talk Friday! I am happy to say that I have Carmen Torres with me today! Carmen Torres is a HR specialist. She has over twenty years in experience helping employers create equitable and safe work space environments for both employers and employees. She is a trusted advisor to many organizations and has helped many small to midsize businesses and non-profits produce reliable and stable HR departments. 

She has a 360 analysis of the human resource function that results in building job descriptions, policy and procedure manuals, conflict resolution, employee retention, employee termination structures, compliance, audits and standards and employee communications. This is for everybody whether you have fifty employees or just one. You need to know these procedures so that an employee can’t come back and sue you. 

Show Notes:

  • What should a business owner be looking for on a candidate’s resume?
  • Are there red flags on a resume to look for?
  • How should you approach calling references?
  • What do you do when you have a hard time trying to get in contact with a reference?
  • What can you say legally if you don’t have a great reference to give about a previous employee?
  • What are some different ways to give a reference?
  • How do you have the conversation with an employee that is not right for the job?
  • What sorts of the things should be discussed when talking to an employee that is not meeting expectations?
  • When should an employer talk to an employee about their performance if it’s not where it needs to be?

Resources:

www.myhrspecialist.com

]]> 2374 no 155: Barbara Viteri- Designerlebrity.com is Live! What is It & Why Do You Care? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/155-barbara-viteri-designerlebritycom-is-live-what-is-it-why-do-you-care Barbara Viteri is back on the show today! Get ready! Her show is one of those where your face hurts from laughing so much. Barbara was originally on the show on episode number 46. You really should go back and listen to that episode after this one because we are not going to go into all of Barbara’s twenty plus industry years of experience. Today on the show we are talking about designerlebrity. She teased us with this when she was last on the show but her website has finally launched! If you haven’t heard of this yet listen up! Barbara is here to tell us all about designerlebrity.com. When you get done listening to Barbara you will know why you want to be part of this new part of the industry.  Also, don’t forget to listen all the way to the end after the interview to learn the new way to get on our email list! Show Notes: What are the “potentials”? Where did the name “designerlebrity” come from? What is the plan for the designerlebrity website? How is the website set up and divided? Who is included on the designerlebrity website? Can a designer pitch Barbara or does she have to find them herself? What is the criteria for a designer to have to be considered to be a designerlebrity? Is there room for everyone? Resources: www.chairish.com  www.designerlebrity.com  www.viteristylemanagement.com  www.socialitesubscribe.com Wed, 22 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Barbara Viteri is back on the show today! Get ready! Her show is one of those where your face hurts from laughing so much. Barbara was originally on the show on episode number 46. You really should go back and listen to that episode after this one... Barbara Viteri is back on the show today! Get ready! Her show is one of those where your face hurts from laughing so much. Barbara was originally on the show on episode number 46. You really should go back and listen to that episode after this one because we are not going to go into all of Barbara’s twenty plus industry years of experience. Today on the show we are talking about designerlebrity. She teased us with this when she was last on the show but her website has finally launched! If you haven’t heard of this yet listen up! Barbara is here to tell us all about designerlebrity.com. When you get done listening to Barbara you will know why you want to be part of this new part of the industry.  Also, don’t forget to listen all the way to the end after the interview to learn the new way to get on our email list! Show Notes: What are the “potentials”? Where did the name “designerlebrity” come from? What is the plan for the designerlebrity website? How is the website set up and divided? Who is included on the designerlebrity website? Can a designer pitch Barbara or does she have to find them herself? What is the criteria for a designer to have to be considered to be a designerlebrity? Is there room for everyone? Resources: www.chairish.com  www.designerlebrity.com  www.viteristylemanagement.com  www.socialitesubscribe.com Barbara Viteri is back on the show today! Get ready! Her show is one of those where your face hurts from laughing so much. Barbara was originally on the show on episode number 46. You really should go back and listen to that episode after this one because we are not going to go into all of Barbara’s twenty plus industry years of experience. Today on the show we are talking about designerlebrity. She teased us with this when she was last on the show but her website has finally launched! If you haven’t heard of this yet listen up! Barbara is here to tell us all about designerlebrity.com. When you get done listening to Barbara you will know why you want to be part of this new part of the industry. 

Also, don’t forget to listen all the way to the end after the interview to learn the new way to get on our email list!

Show Notes:

  • What are the “potentials”?
  • Where did the name “designerlebrity” come from?
  • What is the plan for the designerlebrity website?
  • How is the website set up and divided?
  • Who is included on the designerlebrity website?
  • Can a designer pitch Barbara or does she have to find them herself?
  • What is the criteria for a designer to have to be considered to be a designerlebrity?
  • Is there room for everyone?

Resources:

www.chairish.com 

www.designerlebrity.com 

www.viteristylemanagement.com 

www.socialitesubscribe.com

]]> 3498 no 154: Gary Inman - VP Hospitality at Baskervill- How To Succeed in Hospitality Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/154-gary-inman-vp-hospitality-at-baskervill-how-to-succeed-in-hospitality-design Today’s guest is Gary Inman! If you don’t know who Gary Inman is, get ready! Gary is a nationally celebrated, award-winning interior designer, author, and public speaker. He has been published in major magazines and several other places. Gary is also the vice president of Hospitality with Baskervill, which is an international giant in hospitality serving four star and five stars luxury hotels and resorts. His design métier includes handbags, women’s evening wear, textiles, lighting, rugs and furniture including his acclaimed Home Couture Collection for more counsel. He is also a High Point Style Spotter, an Instagram taste maker, the editor of Art and Fine Living and the popular guest on TV programs.  Stay tuned after the interview. I have some important news on how you can get on our email list! Show Notes: How did Gary maximize his visibility for what he can do as a designer when starting out? What are the different skill sets needed for hospitality design? Who does a hospitality designer work with the most every day? Why does hospitality design require so much research? What would be a deal breaker to being involved in hospitality design? What does he look for in a hospitality designer? What kind of research should be done for this kind of design? What is the “weeding out process”? What is a spec writer? What are some other ways that a designer can make their way into hospitality design? Resources: www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.garyinman.com  www.mydomastudio.com Mon, 20 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s guest is Gary Inman! If you don’t know who Gary Inman is, get ready! Gary is a nationally celebrated, award-winning interior designer, author, and public speaker. He has been published in major magazines and several other places. Gary is... Today’s guest is Gary Inman! If you don’t know who Gary Inman is, get ready! Gary is a nationally celebrated, award-winning interior designer, author, and public speaker. He has been published in major magazines and several other places. Gary is also the vice president of Hospitality with Baskervill, which is an international giant in hospitality serving four star and five stars luxury hotels and resorts. His design métier includes handbags, women’s evening wear, textiles, lighting, rugs and furniture including his acclaimed Home Couture Collection for more counsel. He is also a High Point Style Spotter, an Instagram taste maker, the editor of Art and Fine Living and the popular guest on TV programs.  Stay tuned after the interview. I have some important news on how you can get on our email list! Show Notes: How did Gary maximize his visibility for what he can do as a designer when starting out? What are the different skill sets needed for hospitality design? Who does a hospitality designer work with the most every day? Why does hospitality design require so much research? What would be a deal breaker to being involved in hospitality design? What does he look for in a hospitality designer? What kind of research should be done for this kind of design? What is the “weeding out process”? What is a spec writer? What are some other ways that a designer can make their way into hospitality design? Resources: www.thebusinessofdesign.com  www.garyinman.com  www.mydomastudio.com Today’s guest is Gary Inman! If you don’t know who Gary Inman is, get ready! Gary is a nationally celebrated, award-winning interior designer, author, and public speaker. He has been published in major magazines and several other places. Gary is also the vice president of Hospitality with Baskervill, which is an international giant in hospitality serving four star and five stars luxury hotels and resorts. His design métier includes handbags, women’s evening wear, textiles, lighting, rugs and furniture including his acclaimed Home Couture Collection for more counsel. He is also a High Point Style Spotter, an Instagram taste maker, the editor of Art and Fine Living and the popular guest on TV programs. 

Stay tuned after the interview. I have some important news on how you can get on our email list!

Show Notes:

  • How did Gary maximize his visibility for what he can do as a designer when starting out?
  • What are the different skill sets needed for hospitality design?
  • Who does a hospitality designer work with the most every day?
  • Why does hospitality design require so much research?
  • What would be a deal breaker to being involved in hospitality design?
  • What does he look for in a hospitality designer?
  • What kind of research should be done for this kind of design?
  • What is the “weeding out process”?
  • What is a spec writer?
  • What are some other ways that a designer can make their way into hospitality design?

Resources:

www.thebusinessofdesign.com 

www.garyinman.com 

www.mydomastudio.com

]]> 4385 no 153: Power Talk Friday- Casey DeStefano - Why Video is So Important for Your Firm and How To Do It http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/153-power-talk-friday-casey-destefano-why-video-is-so-important-for-your-firm-and-how-to-do-it On this Power Talk Friday I have Casey Destefano with me! A few months back I was on Casey’s podcast. She is the host of the hit podcast “Women with Balls…in the Air”.  She coaches her audience to have more successful careers and abundant family lives without pulling their hair out. If you did hear about our episode on Casey’s podcast that’s terrific! If you didn’t, please go over to iTunes and check out Casey’s podcast especially if you are someone who is trying to run a business and manage your family and children and get it all done. Like Casey says you have balls but they are in the air! But in addition, if you haven’t heard of Casey or her podcast you might not realize that she is an accomplished director and producer with more than twenty years’ experience. Casey could be on the show to talk about any number of things but today she is going to talk her number one skill set. She is a multimedia marketing agency.  What she does for businesses is web design, video production, digital marketing and small business coaching. Casey is especially passionate about helping women and working with them to help them achieve their goals. Show Notes: Why is it important to include video on your website? How do you figure out what you should include in the video? What is the most important part of the video? What kind of questions should a designer ask to find their “hook”? What is your about me page supposed to be about? Quality is important! What scenarios should you use different qualities? How long should the video be? What are the three steps for prepping? What should a budget be for the video? What advice does Casey have to give about hiring people? Why did Casey start her business? Resources: www.d-stef.com www.caseydestefano.com Fri, 17 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On this Power Talk Friday I have Casey Destefano with me! A few months back I was on Casey’s podcast. She is the host of the hit podcast “Women with Balls…in the Air”.  She coaches her audience to have more successful careers and abundant... On this Power Talk Friday I have Casey Destefano with me! A few months back I was on Casey’s podcast. She is the host of the hit podcast “Women with Balls…in the Air”.  She coaches her audience to have more successful careers and abundant family lives without pulling their hair out. If you did hear about our episode on Casey’s podcast that’s terrific! If you didn’t, please go over to iTunes and check out Casey’s podcast especially if you are someone who is trying to run a business and manage your family and children and get it all done. Like Casey says you have balls but they are in the air! But in addition, if you haven’t heard of Casey or her podcast you might not realize that she is an accomplished director and producer with more than twenty years’ experience. Casey could be on the show to talk about any number of things but today she is going to talk her number one skill set. She is a multimedia marketing agency.  What she does for businesses is web design, video production, digital marketing and small business coaching. Casey is especially passionate about helping women and working with them to help them achieve their goals. Show Notes: Why is it important to include video on your website? How do you figure out what you should include in the video? What is the most important part of the video? What kind of questions should a designer ask to find their “hook”? What is your about me page supposed to be about? Quality is important! What scenarios should you use different qualities? How long should the video be? What are the three steps for prepping? What should a budget be for the video? What advice does Casey have to give about hiring people? Why did Casey start her business? Resources: www.d-stef.com www.caseydestefano.com On this Power Talk Friday I have Casey Destefano with me! A few months back I was on Casey’s podcast. She is the host of the hit podcast “Women with Balls…in the Air”.  She coaches her audience to have more successful careers and abundant family lives without pulling their hair out. If you did hear about our episode on Casey’s podcast that’s terrific! If you didn’t, please go over to iTunes and check out Casey’s podcast especially if you are someone who is trying to run a business and manage your family and children and get it all done. Like Casey says you have balls but they are in the air! But in addition, if you haven’t heard of Casey or her podcast you might not realize that she is an accomplished director and producer with more than twenty years’ experience. Casey could be on the show to talk about any number of things but today she is going to talk her number one skill set. She is a multimedia marketing agency.  What she does for businesses is web design, video production, digital marketing and small business coaching. Casey is especially passionate about helping women and working with them to help them achieve their goals.

Show Notes:

  • Why is it important to include video on your website?
  • How do you figure out what you should include in the video?
  • What is the most important part of the video?
  • What kind of questions should a designer ask to find their “hook”?
  • What is your about me page supposed to be about?
  • Quality is important!
  • What scenarios should you use different qualities?
  • How long should the video be?
  • What are the three steps for prepping?
  • What should a budget be for the video?
  • What advice does Casey have to give about hiring people?
  • Why did Casey start her business?

Resources:

www.d-stef.com

www.caseydestefano.com

]]> 2800 no 152: Chris Kofitsas - How To Successfully Work with Architects and Builders http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/152-chris-kofitsas-how-to-successfully-work-with-architects-and-builders Our guest today, Chris Kofitsas is the president of “New World Design Builders”. If you have ever had the pleasure of dining at Catch LA, Catch New York City or ABC Kitchen in New York City then you have had the pleasure of experiencing Chris’s work firsthand. Today Chris is going to tell us about his unique firm. Chris is the architect, builder and interior designer on all of his projects. Over twenty years of experience and training allows him to interlace these disciplines of architecture, interior, furniture and lighting design into an immersive experience paired with his discerning eye for beauty, attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Chris is one of the most sought after hospitality interior designers and the industries recognized Chris’s designs with multiple awards. Show Notes: How many businesses are there that the designer, builder and architect are all the same person? After going to school what was Chris’s next step? How did the relationship change between Chris and his favorite professor help him with his business? Why did he reconstruct his business? Where does the communication start between a builder and architecture? What sort of things should you look for in good communication? What does he look for when interviewing a new designer? What is an important quality to have when working with someone else? How many people work for Chris’s firm? Advice for new people on how to get a job for a firm like Chris? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.newworlddesignbuilders.com   Wed, 15 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Our guest today, Chris Kofitsas is the president of “New World Design Builders”. If you have ever had the pleasure of dining at Catch LA, Catch New York City or ABC Kitchen in New York City then you have had the pleasure of experiencing Chris’s... Our guest today, Chris Kofitsas is the president of “New World Design Builders”. If you have ever had the pleasure of dining at Catch LA, Catch New York City or ABC Kitchen in New York City then you have had the pleasure of experiencing Chris’s work firsthand. Today Chris is going to tell us about his unique firm. Chris is the architect, builder and interior designer on all of his projects. Over twenty years of experience and training allows him to interlace these disciplines of architecture, interior, furniture and lighting design into an immersive experience paired with his discerning eye for beauty, attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Chris is one of the most sought after hospitality interior designers and the industries recognized Chris’s designs with multiple awards. Show Notes: How many businesses are there that the designer, builder and architect are all the same person? After going to school what was Chris’s next step? How did the relationship change between Chris and his favorite professor help him with his business? Why did he reconstruct his business? Where does the communication start between a builder and architecture? What sort of things should you look for in good communication? What does he look for when interviewing a new designer? What is an important quality to have when working with someone else? How many people work for Chris’s firm? Advice for new people on how to get a job for a firm like Chris? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.newworlddesignbuilders.com   Our guest today, Chris Kofitsas is the president of “New World Design Builders”. If you have ever had the pleasure of dining at Catch LA, Catch New York City or ABC Kitchen in New York City then you have had the pleasure of experiencing Chris’s work firsthand. Today Chris is going to tell us about his unique firm. Chris is the architect, builder and interior designer on all of his projects. Over twenty years of experience and training allows him to interlace these disciplines of architecture, interior, furniture and lighting design into an immersive experience paired with his discerning eye for beauty, attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Chris is one of the most sought after hospitality interior designers and the industries recognized Chris’s designs with multiple awards.

Show Notes:

  • How many businesses are there that the designer, builder and architect are all the same person?
  • After going to school what was Chris’s next step?
  • How did the relationship change between Chris and his favorite professor help him with his business?
  • Why did he reconstruct his business?
  • Where does the communication start between a builder and architecture?
  • What sort of things should you look for in good communication?
  • What does he look for when interviewing a new designer?
  • What is an important quality to have when working with someone else?
  • How many people work for Chris’s firm?
  • Advice for new people on how to get a job for a firm like Chris?

Resources:

www.chairish.com/trade

www.newworlddesignbuilders.com

 

]]> 3235 no 151: Marina Case - How to Go From Hobby Decorator to Interior Designer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/151-marina-case-how-to-go-from-hobby-decorator-to-interior-designer I have Marina Case with me today and she is the principal of The Red Shutters located in Warwick, New York. Marina is a self-described hobby decorator who has become an accomplished interior decorator. Today you will hear Marina talk about the specific steps that she took to create the interior design business that she has today that would be envied and admired by any of us. Marina has been honored as one of the top fifty New York designers in New York spaces. She has won national acclaim for her design at the spa at Glenn Mear Mansion which was named one of the top 100 places in the world to visit by Departures Magazine. She also hosts a radio show, a live show where she interviews many people in the decorating field. Good news! She will be making that available in a podcast very soon! Show Notes: What was the “aha” moment when Marina decided she was going to go into the design business? In hindsight, when did she realize that she was interested in design? How is she using the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class that she teaches to help other designers? What is the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class really about and where can you take the course? What is the difference between a skype design and e-design? What is the difference between a construction package and a builder specification package? How does she charge her services? How can the project's packages affect the cash flow? What are some of the challenges that a new designer could face if they try to duplicate what Marina has done with her business? What does it mean to be an unofficial brand ambassador for the Williamsburg brand? What is the red list?  Resources: www.businessofdesign.com  www.theredshutters.com  www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   Mon, 13 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have Marina Case with me today and she is the principal of The Red Shutters located in Warwick, New York. Marina is a self-described hobby decorator who has become an accomplished interior decorator. Today you will hear Marina talk about the... I have Marina Case with me today and she is the principal of The Red Shutters located in Warwick, New York. Marina is a self-described hobby decorator who has become an accomplished interior decorator. Today you will hear Marina talk about the specific steps that she took to create the interior design business that she has today that would be envied and admired by any of us. Marina has been honored as one of the top fifty New York designers in New York spaces. She has won national acclaim for her design at the spa at Glenn Mear Mansion which was named one of the top 100 places in the world to visit by Departures Magazine. She also hosts a radio show, a live show where she interviews many people in the decorating field. Good news! She will be making that available in a podcast very soon! Show Notes: What was the “aha” moment when Marina decided she was going to go into the design business? In hindsight, when did she realize that she was interested in design? How is she using the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class that she teaches to help other designers? What is the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class really about and where can you take the course? What is the difference between a skype design and e-design? What is the difference between a construction package and a builder specification package? How does she charge her services? How can the project's packages affect the cash flow? What are some of the challenges that a new designer could face if they try to duplicate what Marina has done with her business? What does it mean to be an unofficial brand ambassador for the Williamsburg brand? What is the red list?  Resources: www.businessofdesign.com  www.theredshutters.com  www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness   I have Marina Case with me today and she is the principal of The Red Shutters located in Warwick, New York. Marina is a self-described hobby decorator who has become an accomplished interior decorator. Today you will hear Marina talk about the specific steps that she took to create the interior design business that she has today that would be envied and admired by any of us. Marina has been honored as one of the top fifty New York designers in New York spaces. She has won national acclaim for her design at the spa at Glenn Mear Mansion which was named one of the top 100 places in the world to visit by Departures Magazine. She also hosts a radio show, a live show where she interviews many people in the decorating field. Good news! She will be making that available in a podcast very soon!

Show Notes:

  • What was the “aha” moment when Marina decided she was going to go into the design business?
  • In hindsight, when did she realize that she was interested in design?
  • How is she using the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class that she teaches to help other designers?
  • What is the Historics, Textiles and Wallpaper class really about and where can you take the course?
  • What is the difference between a skype design and e-design?
  • What is the difference between a construction package and a builder specification package?
  • How does she charge her services?
  • How can the project's packages affect the cash flow?
  • What are some of the challenges that a new designer could face if they try to duplicate what Marina has done with her business?
  • What does it mean to be an unofficial brand ambassador for the Williamsburg brand?
  • What is the red list? 

Resources:

www.businessofdesign.com 

www.theredshutters.com 

www.mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness  

]]> 3361 no 150: Power Talk Friday - Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/150-power-talk-friday-krista-coupar-is-back-5-steps-to-make-2017-successful Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m very happy to let everyone know Krista Coupar is back in the house! Krista has two businesses: Coupar Communications and Studio Coupar. Coupar Communications is a public relations and market agency located in San Francisco. Studio Coupar is a full-service design support firm for interior designers, architects, contractors, and builders. On top of running two businesses, she has six children! Talk about a busy and talented lady. Today Krista is going to give us some great tips on what and how we should analyze our business starting the new year. Show Notes: What are some things that new business owners should incorporate for the new year? How can you teach people to assign a financial budget? Why is it important to know your baseline expenses? How can you make yourself feel empowered? Where is the biggest social media platform that an interior design should be on? What are some tips for using Instagram to promote business? What should you put on your business Instagram? What are some steps to take to look out for your future? How does a designer work up more business or pipeline? What are some ways to get the meeting for more clients? Resources: www.instagram.com www.couparcommunications.com www.studiocoupar.com Fri, 10 Mar 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m very happy to let everyone know Krista Coupar is back in the house! Krista has two businesses: Coupar Communications and Studio Coupar. Coupar Communications is a public relations and market agency... Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m very happy to let everyone know Krista Coupar is back in the house! Krista has two businesses: Coupar Communications and Studio Coupar. Coupar Communications is a public relations and market agency located in San Francisco. Studio Coupar is a full-service design support firm for interior designers, architects, contractors, and builders. On top of running two businesses, she has six children! Talk about a busy and talented lady. Today Krista is going to give us some great tips on what and how we should analyze our business starting the new year. Show Notes: What are some things that new business owners should incorporate for the new year? How can you teach people to assign a financial budget? Why is it important to know your baseline expenses? How can you make yourself feel empowered? Where is the biggest social media platform that an interior design should be on? What are some tips for using Instagram to promote business? What should you put on your business Instagram? What are some steps to take to look out for your future? How does a designer work up more business or pipeline? What are some ways to get the meeting for more clients? Resources: www.instagram.com www.couparcommunications.com www.studiocoupar.com Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m very happy to let everyone know Krista Coupar is back in the house! Krista has two businesses: Coupar Communications and Studio Coupar. Coupar Communications is a public relations and market agency located in San Francisco. Studio Coupar is a full-service design support firm for interior designers, architects, contractors, and builders. On top of running two businesses, she has six children! Talk about a busy and talented lady. Today Krista is going to give us some great tips on what and how we should analyze our business starting the new year.

Show Notes:

  • What are some things that new business owners should incorporate for the new year?
  • How can you teach people to assign a financial budget?
  • Why is it important to know your baseline expenses?
  • How can you make yourself feel empowered?
  • Where is the biggest social media platform that an interior design should be on?
  • What are some tips for using Instagram to promote business?
  • What should you put on your business Instagram?
  • What are some steps to take to look out for your future?
  • How does a designer work up more business or pipeline?
  • What are some ways to get the meeting for more clients?

Resources:

www.instagram.com

www.couparcommunications.com

www.studiocoupar.com

]]> 3528 no 149: Brittanie Elms - Founder of My Design Assistant - She Could Be Your Next Employee http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/149-brittanie-elms-founder-of-my-design-assistant-she-could-be-your-next-employee Today Brittanie Elms is with me on the show. Brittanie is a smart, young go-getter who recently founded and launched her own company called My Design Assistant. Brittanie recently reached out to me because she is an avid listener of the show and she was interested in a sponsorship and wanted to know what that entailed. So, while that didn’t work out I was so impressed by her and her services and the concept of hers that I asked her to be on the show. My Design Assistant is a virtual design service specifically for interior designers. The purpose of this service is to decrease the behind the scenes work and to allow the interior design owner to focus on the business while finding time for themselves. Show Notes: Where are virtual assistants most known? What is Brittanie’s ideal customer/client? What are Brittanie’s goals with her business, My Design Assistant? What are the tasks that Brittanie would help a client within a normal day? What are the structures that a client can use to bill their services? In her opinion, what sort of things should a designer look for when hiring an in-person or virtual assistant? What are some challenges she has come across with a virtual assistant? How did she come up with the idea to create My Design Assistant? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.mydesignassistant.com www.instagram.com/mydesignassistantbusiness www.twitter.com/mydesignassist Wed, 08 Mar 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today Brittanie Elms is with me on the show. Brittanie is a smart, young go-getter who recently founded and launched her own company called My Design Assistant. Brittanie recently reached out to me because she is an avid listener of the show and she... Today Brittanie Elms is with me on the show. Brittanie is a smart, young go-getter who recently founded and launched her own company called My Design Assistant. Brittanie recently reached out to me because she is an avid listener of the show and she was interested in a sponsorship and wanted to know what that entailed. So, while that didn’t work out I was so impressed by her and her services and the concept of hers that I asked her to be on the show. My Design Assistant is a virtual design service specifically for interior designers. The purpose of this service is to decrease the behind the scenes work and to allow the interior design owner to focus on the business while finding time for themselves. Show Notes: Where are virtual assistants most known? What is Brittanie’s ideal customer/client? What are Brittanie’s goals with her business, My Design Assistant? What are the tasks that Brittanie would help a client within a normal day? What are the structures that a client can use to bill their services? In her opinion, what sort of things should a designer look for when hiring an in-person or virtual assistant? What are some challenges she has come across with a virtual assistant? How did she come up with the idea to create My Design Assistant? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.mydesignassistant.com www.instagram.com/mydesignassistantbusiness www.twitter.com/mydesignassist Today Brittanie Elms is with me on the show. Brittanie is a smart, young go-getter who recently founded and launched her own company called My Design Assistant. Brittanie recently reached out to me because she is an avid listener of the show and she was interested in a sponsorship and wanted to know what that entailed. So, while that didn’t work out I was so impressed by her and her services and the concept of hers that I asked her to be on the show. My Design Assistant is a virtual design service specifically for interior designers. The purpose of this service is to decrease the behind the scenes work and to allow the interior design owner to focus on the business while finding time for themselves.

Show Notes:

  • Where are virtual assistants most known?
  • What is Brittanie’s ideal customer/client?
  • What are Brittanie’s goals with her business, My Design Assistant?
  • What are the tasks that Brittanie would help a client within a normal day?
  • What are the structures that a client can use to bill their services?
  • In her opinion, what sort of things should a designer look for when hiring an in-person or virtual assistant?
  • What are some challenges she has come across with a virtual assistant?
  • How did she come up with the idea to create My Design Assistant?

Resources:

www.chairish.com/trade

www.mydesignassistant.com

www.instagram.com/mydesignassistantbusiness

www.twitter.com/mydesignassist

]]> 3064 no 148: Michelle Wiebe of Studio M: How To Break Into The New Construction Custom Luxury Design Niche http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/148-michelle-wiebe-of-studio-m-how-to-break-into-the-new-construction-custom-luxury-design-niche On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today.  Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog. Show Notes: How many years has Studio M been in business? How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media? What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction? What is a CEU? How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project? What should the contract consist of? Can you really learn what you need to know from classes? How should make your client feel? Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm? Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm? What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process? What is High Point Market Authority? What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority? How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority? Resources: www.interiorsbystudiom.com www.businessofdesign.com Mon, 06 Mar 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t... On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today.  Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog. Show Notes: How many years has Studio M been in business? How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media? What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction? What is a CEU? How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project? What should the contract consist of? Can you really learn what you need to know from classes? How should make your client feel? Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm? Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm? What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process? What is High Point Market Authority? What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority? How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority? Resources: www.interiorsbystudiom.com www.businessofdesign.com On the show today, we have Michelle Wiebe! Michelle is the principal of Studio M in Tampa, Florida. The specialty of Michelle’s firm is luxury residential new construction. I know we have talked to quite a few designers in this field I haven’t really picked their brain as much as I did with Michelle today. 

Her firm in addition to luxury residential, new construction they also do family condominiums, corporate headquarters, medical offices and small-scale hospitality spaces. Michelle is a busy lady! In addition to all of this, she serves on the board of interior design at Florida State University her Almer mater. She also serves on the high point market authority board and she goes all over the country speaking on design social media. She is the editor of Impression, the Studio M design blog.

Show Notes:

  • How many years has Studio M been in business?
  • How does one show their specialty in luxury residential new construction on social media?
  • What should a new designer know before taking on a big project in luxury residential new construction?
  • What is a CEU?
  • How can a designer educate themselves on different codes that need to be known before going into a project?
  • What should the contract consist of?
  • Can you really learn what you need to know from classes?
  • How should make your client feel?
  • Are there times when certain “projects” in a project should be hired outside of the firm?
  • Who does Michelle have on her team at her firm?
  • What does Michelle look for when going through the hiring process?
  • What is High Point Market Authority?
  • What sort of app can you use at the High Point Market Authority?
  • How long can you serve on the board for High Point Market Authority?

Resources:

www.interiorsbystudiom.com

www.businessofdesign.com

]]> 3875 no 147: Power Talk Friday: Calvin Correli - Combine Entrepreneurship & Spirituality? Calvin Says Yes! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/147-power-talk-friday-calvin-correli-combine-entrepreneurship-spirituality-calvin-says-yes I have Calvin Correli with me today and I have learned talking with him before the show that he is a very interesting man! He is an artist, entrepreneur, a CEO of a holistically focused multimillion dollar software company called Simplero. Calvin is very passion about helping online business owners do exactly what makes them feel most alive and is currently working on branching out to bring all of his talents including music, spirituality, personal growth and bring all of this into an exciting new experience. Show Notes: What is Calvin’s business, Simplero? What is Calvin’s personal mission with his business? What would be some business advice that he would give? How long has he been self-employed? What are some questions does he asks himself for his business? How does he use meditation to help him with projects? How can people emulate the life that he lives? How can you integrate your life and work? What is so great about the “fingerprinting stuff”? Resources: www.calvincorreli.com Fri, 03 Mar 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have Calvin Correli with me today and I have learned talking with him before the show that he is a very interesting man! He is an artist, entrepreneur, a CEO of a holistically focused multimillion dollar software company called Simplero. Calvin is... I have Calvin Correli with me today and I have learned talking with him before the show that he is a very interesting man! He is an artist, entrepreneur, a CEO of a holistically focused multimillion dollar software company called Simplero. Calvin is very passion about helping online business owners do exactly what makes them feel most alive and is currently working on branching out to bring all of his talents including music, spirituality, personal growth and bring all of this into an exciting new experience. Show Notes: What is Calvin’s business, Simplero? What is Calvin’s personal mission with his business? What would be some business advice that he would give? How long has he been self-employed? What are some questions does he asks himself for his business? How does he use meditation to help him with projects? How can people emulate the life that he lives? How can you integrate your life and work? What is so great about the “fingerprinting stuff”? Resources: www.calvincorreli.com I have Calvin Correli with me today and I have learned talking with him before the show that he is a very interesting man! He is an artist, entrepreneur, a CEO of a holistically focused multimillion dollar software company called Simplero. Calvin is very passion about helping online business owners do exactly what makes them feel most alive and is currently working on branching out to bring all of his talents including music, spirituality, personal growth and bring all of this into an exciting new experience.

Show Notes:

  • What is Calvin’s business, Simplero?
  • What is Calvin’s personal mission with his business?
  • What would be some business advice that he would give?
  • How long has he been self-employed?
  • What are some questions does he asks himself for his business?
  • How does he use meditation to help him with projects?
  • How can people emulate the life that he lives?
  • How can you integrate your life and work?
  • What is so great about the “fingerprinting stuff”?

Resources:

www.calvincorreli.com

]]> 2589 no 146: Amanda Reynal - Exacting Systems Are The Foundation For Your Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/146-amanda-reynal-exacting-systems-are-the-foundation-for-your-success If this is your first time, I am so happy that you found us! Today I am pleased to introduce you to Amanda Reynal! Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College. She then studied the masters abroad in Florence, Italy and ultimately learned her trade at the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Design. Recently, she spent three years in London which provided the perfect venue for traveling and continuing her education in English and European decorative arts and antiques as well as contemporary art. Amanda’s introduction to interior design began in New York first at an architecture firm and then as a senior design associate at the prestigious Cullman and Kravis. You will hear today that this had a huge influence on her future success. In 2001, Amanda founded Amanda Reynal Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa which was born through a huge break with the opportunity to design the master bedroom suite at the Des Moines Symphony show house. Show Notes: What stayed with Amanda while she worked at Cullman and Kravis? What is the process for an estimate to be executed? What kind of transition did she go through when she went from an established firm to the beginning of her own business? What characteristics or sorts of things does Amanda look for when hiring a team member? What was it like to go from New York to Iowa? How did Amanda reinvent her business: Amanda Reynal Interiors? What are some steps that she took to make the transition? What kind of thought did she put into picking her new space? What should you look for when finding a space for your new business? Resources: www.chairish.com www.reynalinteriors.com www.joepeoples-photographer.com    www.marisapellegrini.com Wed, 01 Mar 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If this is your first time, I am so happy that you found us! Today I am pleased to introduce you to Amanda Reynal! Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College. She then studied the masters abroad in Florence, Italy and ultimately learned... If this is your first time, I am so happy that you found us! Today I am pleased to introduce you to Amanda Reynal! Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College. She then studied the masters abroad in Florence, Italy and ultimately learned her trade at the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Design. Recently, she spent three years in London which provided the perfect venue for traveling and continuing her education in English and European decorative arts and antiques as well as contemporary art. Amanda’s introduction to interior design began in New York first at an architecture firm and then as a senior design associate at the prestigious Cullman and Kravis. You will hear today that this had a huge influence on her future success. In 2001, Amanda founded Amanda Reynal Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa which was born through a huge break with the opportunity to design the master bedroom suite at the Des Moines Symphony show house. Show Notes: What stayed with Amanda while she worked at Cullman and Kravis? What is the process for an estimate to be executed? What kind of transition did she go through when she went from an established firm to the beginning of her own business? What characteristics or sorts of things does Amanda look for when hiring a team member? What was it like to go from New York to Iowa? How did Amanda reinvent her business: Amanda Reynal Interiors? What are some steps that she took to make the transition? What kind of thought did she put into picking her new space? What should you look for when finding a space for your new business? Resources: www.chairish.com www.reynalinteriors.com www.joepeoples-photographer.com    www.marisapellegrini.com If this is your first time, I am so happy that you found us! Today I am pleased to introduce you to Amanda Reynal! Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College. She then studied the masters abroad in Florence, Italy and ultimately learned her trade at the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Design. Recently, she spent three years in London which provided the perfect venue for traveling and continuing her education in English and European decorative arts and antiques as well as contemporary art. Amanda’s introduction to interior design began in New York first at an architecture firm and then as a senior design associate at the prestigious Cullman and Kravis. You will hear today that this had a huge influence on her future success. In 2001, Amanda founded Amanda Reynal Interiors in Des Moines, Iowa which was born through a huge break with the opportunity to design the master bedroom suite at the Des Moines Symphony show house.

Show Notes:

  • What stayed with Amanda while she worked at Cullman and Kravis?
  • What is the process for an estimate to be executed?
  • What kind of transition did she go through when she went from an established firm to the beginning of her own business?
  • What characteristics or sorts of things does Amanda look for when hiring a team member?
  • What was it like to go from New York to Iowa?
  • How did Amanda reinvent her business: Amanda Reynal Interiors?
  • What are some steps that she took to make the transition?
  • What kind of thought did she put into picking her new space?
  • What should you look for when finding a space for your new business?

Resources:

www.chairish.com

www.reynalinteriors.com

www.joepeoples-photographer.com   

www.marisapellegrini.com

]]> 3459 no 145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/145-sandra-funk-of-house-of-funk-why-and-how-she-re-branded-her-10-year-old-firm I am very happy to announce that I have my buddy Sandra Funk from House of Funk! If you are a returning listener you will know exactly who Sandra Funk is because you know she was on the show on episode 3. You have heard me mention her on the podcast several times over the past year. The reason why you hear me mention her so much is I just admire so much how she runs her business. So often I have other guests on the show that I admire the same way but I don’t see it head on and day to day. So, when I want to make a point or mention her it’s because I see her work up close all the time. If you are new to the show this is all new information. Sandra Funk is the founder and principal designer of House of Funk. It is a full-service firm with offices in New York City and Montclair, New Jersey and they also have e-funk, their online option for interior design. The thing about House of Funk is that they are fully dedicated to living purposefully and authenticity. House of Funk supports charitable organizations such as Charity Water and the Junior League. Both organizations empower women. Why is Sandra Funk back today? Sandra has rebranded her firm after ten years in business. She has taken a pivot and did some soul searching. We are going to talk about that a little bit. Show Notes: What sort of things has Sandra been going through to make her want to rebrand after being in business for ten years? What are some of the steps that she took to rebrand her business? How did Sandra use social media to promote her business? Who does what on her team? How does she get people outside of her network into her network? What was Sandra’s painful experience? How did Sandra deal with her bad experience? Why are deadlines so important to her? What are her long-term and short-term goals? Resources: www.houseoffunk.com www.businessofdesign.com Mon, 27 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I am very happy to announce that I have my buddy Sandra Funk from House of Funk! If you are a returning listener you will know exactly who Sandra Funk is because you know she was on the show on episode 3. You have heard me mention her on the podcast... I am very happy to announce that I have my buddy Sandra Funk from House of Funk! If you are a returning listener you will know exactly who Sandra Funk is because you know she was on the show on episode 3. You have heard me mention her on the podcast several times over the past year. The reason why you hear me mention her so much is I just admire so much how she runs her business. So often I have other guests on the show that I admire the same way but I don’t see it head on and day to day. So, when I want to make a point or mention her it’s because I see her work up close all the time. If you are new to the show this is all new information. Sandra Funk is the founder and principal designer of House of Funk. It is a full-service firm with offices in New York City and Montclair, New Jersey and they also have e-funk, their online option for interior design. The thing about House of Funk is that they are fully dedicated to living purposefully and authenticity. House of Funk supports charitable organizations such as Charity Water and the Junior League. Both organizations empower women. Why is Sandra Funk back today? Sandra has rebranded her firm after ten years in business. She has taken a pivot and did some soul searching. We are going to talk about that a little bit. Show Notes: What sort of things has Sandra been going through to make her want to rebrand after being in business for ten years? What are some of the steps that she took to rebrand her business? How did Sandra use social media to promote her business? Who does what on her team? How does she get people outside of her network into her network? What was Sandra’s painful experience? How did Sandra deal with her bad experience? Why are deadlines so important to her? What are her long-term and short-term goals? Resources: www.houseoffunk.com www.businessofdesign.com I am very happy to announce that I have my buddy Sandra Funk from House of Funk! If you are a returning listener you will know exactly who Sandra Funk is because you know she was on the show on episode 3. You have heard me mention her on the podcast several times over the past year. The reason why you hear me mention her so much is I just admire so much how she runs her business. So often I have other guests on the show that I admire the same way but I don’t see it head on and day to day. So, when I want to make a point or mention her it’s because I see her work up close all the time.

If you are new to the show this is all new information. Sandra Funk is the founder and principal designer of House of Funk. It is a full-service firm with offices in New York City and Montclair, New Jersey and they also have e-funk, their online option for interior design. The thing about House of Funk is that they are fully dedicated to living purposefully and authenticity. House of Funk supports charitable organizations such as Charity Water and the Junior League. Both organizations empower women. Why is Sandra Funk back today? Sandra has rebranded her firm after ten years in business. She has taken a pivot and did some soul searching. We are going to talk about that a little bit.

Show Notes:

  • What sort of things has Sandra been going through to make her want to rebrand after being in business for ten years?
  • What are some of the steps that she took to rebrand her business?
  • How did Sandra use social media to promote her business?
  • Who does what on her team?
  • How does she get people outside of her network into her network?
  • What was Sandra’s painful experience?
  • How did Sandra deal with her bad experience?
  • Why are deadlines so important to her?
  • What are her long-term and short-term goals?

Resources:

www.houseoffunk.com

www.businessofdesign.com

]]> 3973 no 144: Power Talk Friday- Kimberley Seldon is back! - 5 Flat Fee Demons & How to Overcome Them http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/144-power-talk-friday-kimberley-seldon-is-back-5-flat-fee-demons-how-to-overcome-them Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Kimberley is a full service, luxury interior designer and she has offices in Canada and Los Angeles and is the founder of Business of Design. Business of Design is a dynamic platform for interior designers who want to run more profitable businesses. The number of resources that Kimberley has available for you at the Business of Design platform is unbelievable. She is also an author of several books. If you would like the full back story on Kimberley, please go back to episode 112 on this podcast. Today she is going to talk with us about the flat fee demons! She is an expert at pricing your project and positioning your firm and projects for maximum profitability. I have to let the cat out of the bag! Kimberley is starting her own podcast! Show Notes: How long did it take Kimberley to write her book about flat fees? What is internal negotiation and when does this happen? Why should a designer charge for the initial consultation? What other processes should be taken into consideration when setting a flat fee? How does resentment towards the client usually happen? What should you bill for? What is scope creep? How does a designer “train” a client? When should you cut corners? How should a contract be written? What are some “traps” that can happen if your contract is not written correctly? When is Kimberley’s next webinar? How can you get the membership? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com www.kimberleyseldon.com March 9th Webinar - Win The Flat Fee Game: https://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/ Fri, 24 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Kimberley is a full service, luxury interior designer and she has offices in Canada and Los Angeles and is the founder of Business of Design. Business of Design is a dynamic platform for interior designers... Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Kimberley is a full service, luxury interior designer and she has offices in Canada and Los Angeles and is the founder of Business of Design. Business of Design is a dynamic platform for interior designers who want to run more profitable businesses. The number of resources that Kimberley has available for you at the Business of Design platform is unbelievable. She is also an author of several books. If you would like the full back story on Kimberley, please go back to episode 112 on this podcast. Today she is going to talk with us about the flat fee demons! She is an expert at pricing your project and positioning your firm and projects for maximum profitability. I have to let the cat out of the bag! Kimberley is starting her own podcast! Show Notes: How long did it take Kimberley to write her book about flat fees? What is internal negotiation and when does this happen? Why should a designer charge for the initial consultation? What other processes should be taken into consideration when setting a flat fee? How does resentment towards the client usually happen? What should you bill for? What is scope creep? How does a designer “train” a client? When should you cut corners? How should a contract be written? What are some “traps” that can happen if your contract is not written correctly? When is Kimberley’s next webinar? How can you get the membership? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com www.kimberleyseldon.com March 9th Webinar - Win The Flat Fee Game: https://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/ Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Kimberley is a full service, luxury interior designer and she has offices in Canada and Los Angeles and is the founder of Business of Design. Business of Design is a dynamic platform for interior designers who want to run more profitable businesses.

The number of resources that Kimberley has available for you at the Business of Design platform is unbelievable. She is also an author of several books. If you would like the full back story on Kimberley, please go back to episode 112 on this podcast. Today she is going to talk with us about the flat fee demons! She is an expert at pricing your project and positioning your firm and projects for maximum profitability. I have to let the cat out of the bag! Kimberley is starting her own podcast!

Show Notes:

  • How long did it take Kimberley to write her book about flat fees?
  • What is internal negotiation and when does this happen?
  • Why should a designer charge for the initial consultation?
  • What other processes should be taken into consideration when setting a flat fee?
  • How does resentment towards the client usually happen?
  • What should you bill for?
  • What is scope creep?
  • How does a designer “train” a client?
  • When should you cut corners?
  • How should a contract be written?
  • What are some “traps” that can happen if your contract is not written correctly?
  • When is Kimberley’s next webinar?
  • How can you get the membership?

Resources:

www.businessofdesign.com

www.kimberleyseldon.com

March 9th Webinar - Win The Flat Fee Game:

https://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/

]]> 3604 no 143: Sarah Wilson- Chansaerae Designs: Only 2 Years in Business and Clearly On the Path to Success! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/143-sarah-wilson-chansaerae-designs-only-2-years-in-business-and-clearly-on-the-path-to-success Welcome back to another Well-Designed Business! If you are a first-time listener and just now finding our show thank you so much for tuning in! On the show, today Sarah Wilson is with me. Sarah is an interior designer located in Redlands, California. She has just hit her two-year anniversary in business. She is a designer with a degree from the designer institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. Today you are going to learn why and how Sarah left a career as a software quality engineer to pursue her passion in interior design. While she was attending FDIN she participated in different chairing styles where she created a chairing style that she intends to one day bring to market. Color is one of Sarah’s passions and encourages clients to use bold colors in their spaces. Show Notes: What are some of the skill sets that Sarah brought to her business? What other degrees does Sarah have? What would she like to tell all the people starting their new interior design businesses? Where and how did she get her first client for her business? How did she start up her business? What is BNI? What were some things that she thought would be challenging but were surprisingly easy? How important is networking for your business? What are some mistakes that Sarah encountered during her first two years in business? What are some big victories that she has accomplished in her first two years? How did she come to the decision to raise her prices for her services? What goals has Sarah set for herself for 2017? What process did she use to bring in interns? How does Sarah organize her Instagram and use it to show off her work? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.instagram.com/chansaeraedesigns www.chansaeraedesigns.com Wed, 22 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another Well-Designed Business! If you are a first-time listener and just now finding our show thank you so much for tuning in! On the show, today Sarah Wilson is with me. Sarah is an interior designer located in Redlands, California.... Welcome back to another Well-Designed Business! If you are a first-time listener and just now finding our show thank you so much for tuning in! On the show, today Sarah Wilson is with me. Sarah is an interior designer located in Redlands, California. She has just hit her two-year anniversary in business. She is a designer with a degree from the designer institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. Today you are going to learn why and how Sarah left a career as a software quality engineer to pursue her passion in interior design. While she was attending FDIN she participated in different chairing styles where she created a chairing style that she intends to one day bring to market. Color is one of Sarah’s passions and encourages clients to use bold colors in their spaces. Show Notes: What are some of the skill sets that Sarah brought to her business? What other degrees does Sarah have? What would she like to tell all the people starting their new interior design businesses? Where and how did she get her first client for her business? How did she start up her business? What is BNI? What were some things that she thought would be challenging but were surprisingly easy? How important is networking for your business? What are some mistakes that Sarah encountered during her first two years in business? What are some big victories that she has accomplished in her first two years? How did she come to the decision to raise her prices for her services? What goals has Sarah set for herself for 2017? What process did she use to bring in interns? How does Sarah organize her Instagram and use it to show off her work? Resources: www.chairish.com/trade www.instagram.com/chansaeraedesigns www.chansaeraedesigns.com Welcome back to another Well-Designed Business! If you are a first-time listener and just now finding our show thank you so much for tuning in! On the show, today Sarah Wilson is with me. Sarah is an interior designer located in Redlands, California. She has just hit her two-year anniversary in business. She is a designer with a degree from the designer institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles.

Today you are going to learn why and how Sarah left a career as a software quality engineer to pursue her passion in interior design. While she was attending FDIN she participated in different chairing styles where she created a chairing style that she intends to one day bring to market. Color is one of Sarah’s passions and encourages clients to use bold colors in their spaces.

Show Notes:

  • What are some of the skill sets that Sarah brought to her business?
  • What other degrees does Sarah have?
  • What would she like to tell all the people starting their new interior design businesses?
  • Where and how did she get her first client for her business?
  • How did she start up her business?
  • What is BNI?
  • What were some things that she thought would be challenging but were surprisingly easy?
  • How important is networking for your business?
  • What are some mistakes that Sarah encountered during her first two years in business?
  • What are some big victories that she has accomplished in her first two years?
  • How did she come to the decision to raise her prices for her services?
  • What goals has Sarah set for herself for 2017?
  • What process did she use to bring in interns?
  • How does Sarah organize her Instagram and use it to show off her work?

Resources:

www.chairish.com/trade

www.instagram.com/chansaeraedesigns

www.chansaeraedesigns.com

]]> 4809 no 142: Glen Peloso - "Build One Another Up" http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/142-glen-peloso-build-one-another-up Glen Peloso will be joining me today on A Well-Designed Business. Glen is one-half of the Glen and Jamie of the Peloso Alexander Interiors. Each Glen and Jamie are successful interior designers some twenty plus years each and in 2013 these two respected designers came together to co-found Peloso Alexander Interiors in Toronto. Following their merger, they launched their brand “Glen and Jamie Designer Collection” which is an upholstery line that is now available in stores nationwide. They have both appeared in both print and television in North America and internationally, HGTV and Food Network. They are regulars as design experts for the Merrel and Dennis Show, Global Morning Show, Breakfast Television Toronto and CHCH Morning. They are also regular design columnists for national papers like the Toronto Star and are national contributors to a variety of national and international magazines. Glen and Jamie serve as design directors at Toronto’s largest attended festival, Buscar Fest. They were recently honored by being appointed ambassadors to the peer project, a non-profit organization that assists youth mentored by youth. They maintain two boutique locations and somehow, they run a full-time interior design firm with a staff of ten! Show Notes: How did Glen and Jamie come to want to found a business together? What are some skill sets that Glen has that compliment Peloso Alexander Interiors that are different from Jamie’s skillsets? How did the two stores come to be? What is the difference in the two stores? What is the idea for “the basement”? How did the media part of the business get started? When did Glen have his start in television? What advice does Glen give to people who want to be on television and be famous? What are the design tours that Glen Jamie do together? How can someone join a tour that is being held by Glen and Jamie? How do you most effectively use the resources given to you? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com    www.pelosoalexander.com Mon, 20 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Glen Peloso will be joining me today on A Well-Designed Business. Glen is one-half of the Glen and Jamie of the Peloso Alexander Interiors. Each Glen and Jamie are successful interior designers some twenty plus years each and in 2013 these two... Glen Peloso will be joining me today on A Well-Designed Business. Glen is one-half of the Glen and Jamie of the Peloso Alexander Interiors. Each Glen and Jamie are successful interior designers some twenty plus years each and in 2013 these two respected designers came together to co-found Peloso Alexander Interiors in Toronto. Following their merger, they launched their brand “Glen and Jamie Designer Collection” which is an upholstery line that is now available in stores nationwide. They have both appeared in both print and television in North America and internationally, HGTV and Food Network. They are regulars as design experts for the Merrel and Dennis Show, Global Morning Show, Breakfast Television Toronto and CHCH Morning. They are also regular design columnists for national papers like the Toronto Star and are national contributors to a variety of national and international magazines. Glen and Jamie serve as design directors at Toronto’s largest attended festival, Buscar Fest. They were recently honored by being appointed ambassadors to the peer project, a non-profit organization that assists youth mentored by youth. They maintain two boutique locations and somehow, they run a full-time interior design firm with a staff of ten! Show Notes: How did Glen and Jamie come to want to found a business together? What are some skill sets that Glen has that compliment Peloso Alexander Interiors that are different from Jamie’s skillsets? How did the two stores come to be? What is the difference in the two stores? What is the idea for “the basement”? How did the media part of the business get started? When did Glen have his start in television? What advice does Glen give to people who want to be on television and be famous? What are the design tours that Glen Jamie do together? How can someone join a tour that is being held by Glen and Jamie? How do you most effectively use the resources given to you? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com    www.pelosoalexander.com Glen Peloso will be joining me today on A Well-Designed Business. Glen is one-half of the Glen and Jamie of the Peloso Alexander Interiors. Each Glen and Jamie are successful interior designers some twenty plus years each and in 2013 these two respected designers came together to co-found Peloso Alexander Interiors in Toronto.

Following their merger, they launched their brand “Glen and Jamie Designer Collection” which is an upholstery line that is now available in stores nationwide. They have both appeared in both print and television in North America and internationally, HGTV and Food Network. They are regulars as design experts for the Merrel and Dennis Show, Global Morning Show, Breakfast Television Toronto and CHCH Morning.

They are also regular design columnists for national papers like the Toronto Star and are national contributors to a variety of national and international magazines. Glen and Jamie serve as design directors at Toronto’s largest attended festival, Buscar Fest. They were recently honored by being appointed ambassadors to the peer project, a non-profit organization that assists youth mentored by youth. They maintain two boutique locations and somehow, they run a full-time interior design firm with a staff of ten!

Show Notes:

  • How did Glen and Jamie come to want to found a business together?
  • What are some skill sets that Glen has that compliment Peloso Alexander Interiors that are different from Jamie’s skillsets?
  • How did the two stores come to be?
  • What is the difference in the two stores?
  • What is the idea for “the basement”?
  • How did the media part of the business get started?
  • When did Glen have his start in television?
  • What advice does Glen give to people who want to be on television and be famous?
  • What are the design tours that Glen Jamie do together?
  • How can someone join a tour that is being held by Glen and Jamie?
  • How do you most effectively use the resources given to you?

Resources:

www.businessofdesign.com   

www.pelosoalexander.com

]]> 4728 no 141: Power Talk Friday - Jim Riviello - "Create the Extraordinary Life & Business You Desire” http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/141-power-talk-friday-jim-riviello-create-the-extraordinary-life-business-you-desire It’s another episode of power talk Friday! I have Jim Riviello with me today! Jim is the founder of Leadership X University, LXU. He is a speaker, team development coach as well as the author of “There Must be a Better Way”. His latest book is called “Rivelations for Business Professionals”. Jim and his team provide business leadership and growth tools to help you accelerate yourself as an individual, a team leader, home owner and team development. He comes from his own experience and has been in our shoes. He shares his own personal stories and this one of the reasons I was attracted to Jim and his team. Show Notes: What is “be do have not have do be”? Where should you be looking first if you are not successful? When should you plan your work week? How should you or what are some ways to plan your work week? How can you use Monday to plan for the rest of the week? What is a power day and how often should you have them? What is the golden rule for having to reschedule a meeting? Why is it so important to just keep moving the “needle”? What is the importance of three steps? What does the phrase catch first mean? What kind of programs does Jim and his team offer? Resources: www.lxu.training There Must be a Better Way Rivelations for Business Professionals Fri, 17 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s another episode of power talk Friday! I have Jim Riviello with me today! Jim is the founder of Leadership X University, LXU. He is a speaker, team development coach as well as the author of “There Must be a Better Way”. His latest book is... It’s another episode of power talk Friday! I have Jim Riviello with me today! Jim is the founder of Leadership X University, LXU. He is a speaker, team development coach as well as the author of “There Must be a Better Way”. His latest book is called “Rivelations for Business Professionals”. Jim and his team provide business leadership and growth tools to help you accelerate yourself as an individual, a team leader, home owner and team development. He comes from his own experience and has been in our shoes. He shares his own personal stories and this one of the reasons I was attracted to Jim and his team. Show Notes: What is “be do have not have do be”? Where should you be looking first if you are not successful? When should you plan your work week? How should you or what are some ways to plan your work week? How can you use Monday to plan for the rest of the week? What is a power day and how often should you have them? What is the golden rule for having to reschedule a meeting? Why is it so important to just keep moving the “needle”? What is the importance of three steps? What does the phrase catch first mean? What kind of programs does Jim and his team offer? Resources: www.lxu.training There Must be a Better Way Rivelations for Business Professionals It’s another episode of power talk Friday! I have Jim Riviello with me today! Jim is the founder of Leadership X University, LXU. He is a speaker, team development coach as well as the author of “There Must be a Better Way”. His latest book is called “Rivelations for Business Professionals”. Jim and his team provide business leadership and growth tools to help you accelerate yourself as an individual, a team leader, home owner and team development. He comes from his own experience and has been in our shoes. He shares his own personal stories and this one of the reasons I was attracted to Jim and his team.

Show Notes:

  • What is “be do have not have do be”?
  • Where should you be looking first if you are not successful?
  • When should you plan your work week?
  • How should you or what are some ways to plan your work week?
  • How can you use Monday to plan for the rest of the week?
  • What is a power day and how often should you have them?
  • What is the golden rule for having to reschedule a meeting?
  • Why is it so important to just keep moving the “needle”?
  • What is the importance of three steps?
  • What does the phrase catch first mean?
  • What kind of programs does Jim and his team offer?

Resources:

www.lxu.training

There Must be a Better Way

Rivelations for Business Professionals

]]> 3091 no 140: Today We Celebrate the 1st Birthday of A Well-Designed Business! Carol Cox of Speaking Your Brand Interviews LuAnn! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/140-today-we-celebrate-the-1st-birthday-of-a-well-designed-business-carol-cox-of-speaking-your-brand-interviews-luann Today is the one year birthday for A Well Design Business! IT’s been quite a journey with so many challenges and victories along the way. It’s like the best roller coaster you have ever been on. For the one year birthday show I have been thinking “what should I do?” I wanted it to be different from regular scheduling. I remembered what I did for the 6 month show and for the 100th episode and I decided I can’t do what I did on those shows again. Then I was listening to Natalie Eckdahls BizChix Podcast. It’s a great show! It has lots of insight on how to run a business. While Natalie is a great business coach for anyone on any level she seems to really speak to “solos” and the struggles of solos. Natalie just celebrated her 3rd year on air and for that episode, she invited someone to interview her. I love that idea! So, I snagged and copied the idea. Today I have invited Carol Cox to be my interviewer. Carol is the creator of “Speaking your Brand” which provides mission-driven entrepreneurs and organizations with communications and media training. She helps them excavate their stories and core messages and create a breakthrough brand and signature talk that grows their business and influence. Carol also teaches business and marketing at a university and during election seasons she serves as a political analyst on TV news. Show Notes: How did the podcast “A Well-Designed Business” come about? What was it that Luann saw that designers were struggling with and that her podcast could help? Why do people like Luann’s podcast: A Well Design Business? How does she find the guests for her podcast? What is the criteria for a guest that Luann would pick? Why did she come up with power talk Friday for her podcast? Is there some advice that Luann has heard in several of the episodes over and over? How did Luann learn to trust her intuition? Why did Luann decide to hire a speaking coach? Why didn’t she go to college? What kind of thinker do you need to be to be a good designer? What has she gotten the most of doing the podcast? When is, her book coming out and what is it about? What’s next for the podcast? Resources: www.chairish.com A Making of a Well-Designed Business   https://www.speakingyourbrand.com   http://bizchix.com   https://www.silvamethod.com Wed, 15 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today is the one year birthday for A Well Design Business! IT’s been quite a journey with so many challenges and victories along the way. It’s like the best roller coaster you have ever been on. For the one year birthday show I have been thinking... Today is the one year birthday for A Well Design Business! IT’s been quite a journey with so many challenges and victories along the way. It’s like the best roller coaster you have ever been on. For the one year birthday show I have been thinking “what should I do?” I wanted it to be different from regular scheduling. I remembered what I did for the 6 month show and for the 100th episode and I decided I can’t do what I did on those shows again. Then I was listening to Natalie Eckdahls BizChix Podcast. It’s a great show! It has lots of insight on how to run a business. While Natalie is a great business coach for anyone on any level she seems to really speak to “solos” and the struggles of solos. Natalie just celebrated her 3rd year on air and for that episode, she invited someone to interview her. I love that idea! So, I snagged and copied the idea. Today I have invited Carol Cox to be my interviewer. Carol is the creator of “Speaking your Brand” which provides mission-driven entrepreneurs and organizations with communications and media training. She helps them excavate their stories and core messages and create a breakthrough brand and signature talk that grows their business and influence. Carol also teaches business and marketing at a university and during election seasons she serves as a political analyst on TV news. Show Notes: How did the podcast “A Well-Designed Business” come about? What was it that Luann saw that designers were struggling with and that her podcast could help? Why do people like Luann’s podcast: A Well Design Business? How does she find the guests for her podcast? What is the criteria for a guest that Luann would pick? Why did she come up with power talk Friday for her podcast? Is there some advice that Luann has heard in several of the episodes over and over? How did Luann learn to trust her intuition? Why did Luann decide to hire a speaking coach? Why didn’t she go to college? What kind of thinker do you need to be to be a good designer? What has she gotten the most of doing the podcast? When is, her book coming out and what is it about? What’s next for the podcast? Resources: www.chairish.com A Making of a Well-Designed Business   https://www.speakingyourbrand.com   http://bizchix.com   https://www.silvamethod.com Today is the one year birthday for A Well Design Business! IT’s been quite a journey with so many challenges and victories along the way. It’s like the best roller coaster you have ever been on. For the one year birthday show I have been thinking “what should I do?” I wanted it to be different from regular scheduling. I remembered what I did for the 6 month show and for the 100th episode and I decided I can’t do what I did on those shows again.

Then I was listening to Natalie Eckdahls BizChix Podcast. It’s a great show! It has lots of insight on how to run a business. While Natalie is a great business coach for anyone on any level she seems to really speak to “solos” and the struggles of solos. Natalie just celebrated her 3rd year on air and for that episode, she invited someone to interview her. I love that idea! So, I snagged and copied the idea.

Today I have invited Carol Cox to be my interviewer. Carol is the creator of “Speaking your Brand” which provides mission-driven entrepreneurs and organizations with communications and media training. She helps them excavate their stories and core messages and create a breakthrough brand and signature talk that grows their business and influence. Carol also teaches business and marketing at a university and during election seasons she serves as a political analyst on TV news.

Show Notes:

  • How did the podcast “A Well-Designed Business” come about?
  • What was it that Luann saw that designers were struggling with and that her podcast could help?
  • Why do people like Luann’s podcast: A Well Design Business?
  • How does she find the guests for her podcast?
  • What is the criteria for a guest that Luann would pick?
  • Why did she come up with power talk Friday for her podcast?
  • Is there some advice that Luann has heard in several of the episodes over and over?
  • How did Luann learn to trust her intuition?
  • Why did Luann decide to hire a speaking coach?
  • Why didn’t she go to college?
  • What kind of thinker do you need to be to be a good designer?
  • What has she gotten the most of doing the podcast?
  • When is, her book coming out and what is it about?
  • What’s next for the podcast?

Resources:

www.chairish.com

A Making of a Well-Designed Business

 

https://www.speakingyourbrand.com   http://bizchix.com   https://www.silvamethod.com]]> 4300 no 139: Ann Feldstein & Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky from Moxie Marketing - Let’s Talk Marketing with 2 Pro’s! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/139-ann-feldstein-jennifer-tumpowsky-from-moxie-marketing-lets-talk-marketing-with-2-pros I have two dynamos in the marketing and PR world, Ann Feldstein and Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky of Moxie Marketing and Communications. We are going to talk today about how to be prepared to work with a PR marketing firm and what you can expect them to help you with if you do hire one. But first a little background on these two accomplished women. Moxie Marketing and Communications is a New York-based public relations marketing firm representing interior designers, architects, manufacturers and brands in the interior design industry. Founder and President, Ann Feldstein and her partner, Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky have twenty plus combined years of industry specific experience. Ann, throughout her career, has worked on high-end brands and for fifteen years she was the Vice President of Communications at Kravet Inc. At Kravet, she focused on B2B marketing and PR, media and event planning and was a part owner of CrossFit Sanctuary. Jennifer is a native of High Point, North Carolina and her passion for the design industry and deep understanding of marketing makes her a valuable asset to their clients. Jennifer joined Moxie in April of 2016 after she also spent time at Kravet Inc. Jennifer was at Kravet for seven years and was the Director of Communications and oversaw the development of strategy, implementation of social media, copyrighting, public relations and assisted with events, product launching and media planning. Jennifer has visited every major design center in the country. She speaks to designers large and small about the power of social media and the importance of marketing in the interior design industry.   Show Notes: What is it like to be a client at Moxie Marketing and Communications? Does their business work with interior designers that don’t know what their goals are? What is a brand presence? What is the purpose of going to different events? What does it mean to have a good social media presence? What are some principles for good social media campaign? How many social platforms should a business be on? Are there certain things that someone should have ready before deciding to work with a PR firm? How important is communication for your business? How should you capture your work? What is something that you need to make sure is very clear on your website or page? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com www.moxiemarketingny.com Mon, 13 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have two dynamos in the marketing and PR world, Ann Feldstein and Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky of Moxie Marketing and Communications. We are going to talk today about how to be prepared to work with a PR marketing firm and what you can expect them to... I have two dynamos in the marketing and PR world, Ann Feldstein and Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky of Moxie Marketing and Communications. We are going to talk today about how to be prepared to work with a PR marketing firm and what you can expect them to help you with if you do hire one. But first a little background on these two accomplished women. Moxie Marketing and Communications is a New York-based public relations marketing firm representing interior designers, architects, manufacturers and brands in the interior design industry. Founder and President, Ann Feldstein and her partner, Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky have twenty plus combined years of industry specific experience. Ann, throughout her career, has worked on high-end brands and for fifteen years she was the Vice President of Communications at Kravet Inc. At Kravet, she focused on B2B marketing and PR, media and event planning and was a part owner of CrossFit Sanctuary. Jennifer is a native of High Point, North Carolina and her passion for the design industry and deep understanding of marketing makes her a valuable asset to their clients. Jennifer joined Moxie in April of 2016 after she also spent time at Kravet Inc. Jennifer was at Kravet for seven years and was the Director of Communications and oversaw the development of strategy, implementation of social media, copyrighting, public relations and assisted with events, product launching and media planning. Jennifer has visited every major design center in the country. She speaks to designers large and small about the power of social media and the importance of marketing in the interior design industry.   Show Notes: What is it like to be a client at Moxie Marketing and Communications? Does their business work with interior designers that don’t know what their goals are? What is a brand presence? What is the purpose of going to different events? What does it mean to have a good social media presence? What are some principles for good social media campaign? How many social platforms should a business be on? Are there certain things that someone should have ready before deciding to work with a PR firm? How important is communication for your business? How should you capture your work? What is something that you need to make sure is very clear on your website or page? Resources: www.businessofdesign.com www.moxiemarketingny.com I have two dynamos in the marketing and PR world, Ann Feldstein and Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky of Moxie Marketing and Communications. We are going to talk today about how to be prepared to work with a PR marketing firm and what you can expect them to help you with if you do hire one.

But first a little background on these two accomplished women. Moxie Marketing and Communications is a New York-based public relations marketing firm representing interior designers, architects, manufacturers and brands in the interior design industry. Founder and President, Ann Feldstein and her partner, Jennifer Powell Tumpowsky have twenty plus combined years of industry specific experience. Ann, throughout her career, has worked on high-end brands and for fifteen years she was the Vice President of Communications at Kravet Inc. At Kravet, she focused on B2B marketing and PR, media and event planning and was a part owner of CrossFit Sanctuary.

Jennifer is a native of High Point, North Carolina and her passion for the design industry and deep understanding of marketing makes her a valuable asset to their clients. Jennifer joined Moxie in April of 2016 after she also spent time at Kravet Inc. Jennifer was at Kravet for seven years and was the Director of Communications and oversaw the development of strategy, implementation of social media, copyrighting, public relations and assisted with events, product launching and media planning. Jennifer has visited every major design center in the country. She speaks to designers large and small about the power of social media and the importance of marketing in the interior design industry.

 

Show Notes:

  • What is it like to be a client at Moxie Marketing and Communications?
  • Does their business work with interior designers that don’t know what their goals are?
  • What is a brand presence?
  • What is the purpose of going to different events?
  • What does it mean to have a good social media presence?
  • What are some principles for good social media campaign?
  • How many social platforms should a business be on?
  • Are there certain things that someone should have ready before deciding to work with a PR firm?
  • How important is communication for your business?
  • How should you capture your work?
  • What is something that you need to make sure is very clear on your website or page?

Resources:

www.businessofdesign.com

www.moxiemarketingny.com

]]> 3801 no 138: Power Talk Friday - Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/138-power-talk-friday-charlotte-safavi-why-even-an-interior-designer-can-benefit-from-a-professional-stylist-on-the-photo-shoot We’re back with another power talk Friday! I’m happy to announce that I have Charlotte Safavi with me today. Charlotte is a London born, Oxford University-educated writer and stylist. She has written for national shelter magazines such as Better Home and Gardens, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, HGTV magazine, Southern Living, New York Cottages and Gardens, Lux Interiors and Design, Southern Home and many more.  I am looking at this list that Charlotte has been published in and think of how many times I have read those same lists for each of the interior design guests we have had on the show. Today we are going to look at it from the other side, the writer side. Show Notes: What makes Charlotte’s niche different than other stylists for magazines? Why did she decide on this niche? What does she do in her scouting for a shoot? What might be some suggestions that Charlotte would give the designer or photographer? When should a designer use a team like Charlotte’s team for their projects? What are some ways that Charlotte approaches a project when scouting? Why is it important to have a narrative or thread to a project? How can a designer keep the narrative or thread going through a photo shoot? What are some ways to stage a project to attract that client you want? Resources: www.instagram.com/charlottesafavi www.facebook.com/charlottesafavi www.charlottesafavi.com Fri, 10 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We’re back with another power talk Friday! I’m happy to announce that I have Charlotte Safavi with me today. Charlotte is a London born, Oxford University-educated writer and stylist. She has written for national shelter magazines such as Better... We’re back with another power talk Friday! I’m happy to announce that I have Charlotte Safavi with me today. Charlotte is a London born, Oxford University-educated writer and stylist. She has written for national shelter magazines such as Better Home and Gardens, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, HGTV magazine, Southern Living, New York Cottages and Gardens, Lux Interiors and Design, Southern Home and many more.  I am looking at this list that Charlotte has been published in and think of how many times I have read those same lists for each of the interior design guests we have had on the show. Today we are going to look at it from the other side, the writer side. Show Notes: What makes Charlotte’s niche different than other stylists for magazines? Why did she decide on this niche? What does she do in her scouting for a shoot? What might be some suggestions that Charlotte would give the designer or photographer? When should a designer use a team like Charlotte’s team for their projects? What are some ways that Charlotte approaches a project when scouting? Why is it important to have a narrative or thread to a project? How can a designer keep the narrative or thread going through a photo shoot? What are some ways to stage a project to attract that client you want? Resources: www.instagram.com/charlottesafavi www.facebook.com/charlottesafavi www.charlottesafavi.com We’re back with another power talk Friday! I’m happy to announce that I have Charlotte Safavi with me today. Charlotte is a London born, Oxford University-educated writer and stylist. She has written for national shelter magazines such as Better Home and Gardens, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, HGTV magazine, Southern Living, New York Cottages and Gardens, Lux Interiors and Design, Southern Home and many more. 

I am looking at this list that Charlotte has been published in and think of how many times I have read those same lists for each of the interior design guests we have had on the show. Today we are going to look at it from the other side, the writer side.

Show Notes:

  • What makes Charlotte’s niche different than other stylists for magazines?
  • Why did she decide on this niche?
  • What does she do in her scouting for a shoot?
  • What might be some suggestions that Charlotte would give the designer or photographer?
  • When should a designer use a team like Charlotte’s team for their projects?
  • What are some ways that Charlotte approaches a project when scouting?
  • Why is it important to have a narrative or thread to a project?
  • How can a designer keep the narrative or thread going through a photo shoot?
  • What are some ways to stage a project to attract that client you want?

Resources:

www.instagram.com/charlottesafavi

www.facebook.com/charlottesafavi

www.charlottesafavi.com

]]> 2131 no 137: Michele Williams- Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/137-michele-williams-scarlett-thread-consulting-actionable-tips-for-time-management Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States.  Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity. Show Notes: What is her background in the financial software industry? When did she decide to start her window treatment business? Did she start with a business plan? How did she start to make her business bigger? What is the Design Collective in Atlanta? What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful? How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business? What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte? Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things? Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity? Is it better to be proactive or reactive? How should you plan your calendar? Resources: www.chairish.com  www.designcollectiveatl.com  www.scarletthreadconsulting.com Wed, 08 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background... Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States.  Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity. Show Notes: What is her background in the financial software industry? When did she decide to start her window treatment business? Did she start with a business plan? How did she start to make her business bigger? What is the Design Collective in Atlanta? What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful? How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business? What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte? Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things? Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity? Is it better to be proactive or reactive? How should you plan your calendar? Resources: www.chairish.com  www.designcollectiveatl.com  www.scarletthreadconsulting.com Today on the show I have yet another fabulous business coach who specializes in our industry! Michele Williams is with me! Michele is the founder of Scarlet Thread and Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia. Today we will learn about Michele’s background which includes the financial software industry as well as a business in soft window treatment fabricator. She also has a BS in business administration, a diploma in Christian life coaching and she is one of the few certified profit first coaches in the United States. 

Michele was also the communication director and editor in chief of the Drapery and Designs Professional Magazine from 2009 to 2012. She is a member of The Design Collective in Atlanta, the Designers Work Club Council and the Window Covering Association of America. After talking to Michele I realized that there are so many things I could talk with her about but after we talk about her background a little bit we are going to pull apart work scheduling and chunking our day to have more productivity.

Show Notes:

  • What is her background in the financial software industry?
  • When did she decide to start her window treatment business?
  • Did she start with a business plan?
  • How did she start to make her business bigger?
  • What is the Design Collective in Atlanta?
  • What is a round table discussion and how is it helpful?
  • How is the Window Coverings Association helpful to Michele and her business?
  • What are some of things that you can expect Michele to talk about the expo IWCE in Charlotte?
  • Why is it important to listen to different people say the same things?
  • Why is important to be able to chunk your time for productivity?
  • Is it better to be proactive or reactive?
  • How should you plan your calendar?

Resources:

www.chairish.com 

www.designcollectiveatl.com 

www.scarletthreadconsulting.com

]]> 4413 no 136: Ashleigh Esprit - Atlanta Interior Design Student and Blogger http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/136-ashleigh-espirit-atlanta-interior-design-student-and-blogger On the show, today it is kind of a departure for the podcast because I am going to be speaking with an interior design student: Ashleigh Esprit. Ashleigh is a student Gwinnett Technical College in Atlanta, Georgia and she is working on her associates degree in interior design. She will complete her associates degree in the spring of 2017 and then attend Brunel University in the fall to get her masters in interior design. She has had great success in her internships and working with a great company, Sherwin Williams. She is very passionate about design and very passionate about her colleagues. She has started a blog, The Life of an Interior Design Student. In the interview, you will learn how Ashleigh and I came to know each other and what I have learned about her to make me respect her.  Show Notes: Why did Ashleigh start a blog for interior design students? What are some of the struggles that she has experienced that other students have as well? How does Ashleigh overcome her times when she is having trouble staying inspired? What made Ashleigh want to be involved in the interior design business and study more about interior design? Are there any classes that Ashleigh thinks are more beneficial than others? Does Ashleigh think internships are important? Is there anything that she thinks should be included in the interior design curriculum that isn’t explained well enough already? Is Ashleigh a part of ASID? What are Ashleigh’s goals for her career in interior design? What are some other blogs that she has connected with? Has Ashleigh learned anything from doing her blog: The Life of an Interior Design Student? Resources: The Life of an Interior Design Student www.lifeofanidstudent.blogspot.com Mon, 06 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show, today it is kind of a departure for the podcast because I am going to be speaking with an interior design student: Ashleigh Esprit. Ashleigh is a student Gwinnett Technical College in Atlanta, Georgia and she is working on her associates... On the show, today it is kind of a departure for the podcast because I am going to be speaking with an interior design student: Ashleigh Esprit. Ashleigh is a student Gwinnett Technical College in Atlanta, Georgia and she is working on her associates degree in interior design. She will complete her associates degree in the spring of 2017 and then attend Brunel University in the fall to get her masters in interior design. She has had great success in her internships and working with a great company, Sherwin Williams. She is very passionate about design and very passionate about her colleagues. She has started a blog, The Life of an Interior Design Student. In the interview, you will learn how Ashleigh and I came to know each other and what I have learned about her to make me respect her.  Show Notes: Why did Ashleigh start a blog for interior design students? What are some of the struggles that she has experienced that other students have as well? How does Ashleigh overcome her times when she is having trouble staying inspired? What made Ashleigh want to be involved in the interior design business and study more about interior design? Are there any classes that Ashleigh thinks are more beneficial than others? Does Ashleigh think internships are important? Is there anything that she thinks should be included in the interior design curriculum that isn’t explained well enough already? Is Ashleigh a part of ASID? What are Ashleigh’s goals for her career in interior design? What are some other blogs that she has connected with? Has Ashleigh learned anything from doing her blog: The Life of an Interior Design Student? Resources: The Life of an Interior Design Student www.lifeofanidstudent.blogspot.com On the show, today it is kind of a departure for the podcast because I am going to be speaking with an interior design student: Ashleigh Esprit. Ashleigh is a student Gwinnett Technical College in Atlanta, Georgia and she is working on her associates degree in interior design. She will complete her associates degree in the spring of 2017 and then attend Brunel University in the fall to get her masters in interior design. She has had great success in her internships and working with a great company, Sherwin Williams. She is very passionate about design and very passionate about her colleagues. She has started a blog, The Life of an Interior Design Student. In the interview, you will learn how Ashleigh and I came to know each other and what I have learned about her to make me respect her. 

Show Notes:

  • Why did Ashleigh start a blog for interior design students?
  • What are some of the struggles that she has experienced that other students have as well?
  • How does Ashleigh overcome her times when she is having trouble staying inspired?
  • What made Ashleigh want to be involved in the interior design business and study more about interior design?
  • Are there any classes that Ashleigh thinks are more beneficial than others?
  • Does Ashleigh think internships are important?
  • Is there anything that she thinks should be included in the interior design curriculum that isn’t explained well enough already?
  • Is Ashleigh a part of ASID?
  • What are Ashleigh’s goals for her career in interior design?
  • What are some other blogs that she has connected with?
  • Has Ashleigh learned anything from doing her blog: The Life of an Interior Design Student?

Resources:

The Life of an Interior Design Student

www.lifeofanidstudent.blogspot.com

]]> 2488 no 135: Power Talk Friday - Heather Ann Havenwood: “People Do Business With People, H2H” http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/135-power-talk-friday-heather-ann-havenwood-people-do-business-with-people-h2h On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have Heather Ann Havenwood! Heather Ann Havenwood is the CEO of Havenwood Worldwide. She is the head chief sexy boss, she is an entrepreneur and a top authority in internet marketing, business strategies, and marketing. What I found that is very interesting about Heather is that she started her first online business in 1999. If you think about that in 1999 nobody really had computers in their homes. In 2006, she took a company that she developed and grew it to an online marketing, publishing company from ground zero to over one million dollars in sales in under twelve months! Show Notes: What is Heather’s nitch? What should you promote first for your business? What are some of the differences between men and women’s approaches when it comes to getting what they want in business? When or should you become friends with clients? Why are consistency and commitment important? What is H2H and why is it important? Why is it important to google your name every occasionally? Why does everyone fail to succeed? Why did she write her book: Sexy Boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Business? Why are testimonials important to your business? How do you get testimonials? What is Heather’s podcast about? Resources: Sexy boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Success The Win with Heather Havenwood www.heatherhavenwood.com Fri, 03 Feb 2017 02:04:05 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have Heather Ann Havenwood! Heather Ann Havenwood is the CEO of Havenwood Worldwide. She is the head chief sexy boss, she is an entrepreneur and a top authority in internet marketing, business... On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have Heather Ann Havenwood! Heather Ann Havenwood is the CEO of Havenwood Worldwide. She is the head chief sexy boss, she is an entrepreneur and a top authority in internet marketing, business strategies, and marketing. What I found that is very interesting about Heather is that she started her first online business in 1999. If you think about that in 1999 nobody really had computers in their homes. In 2006, she took a company that she developed and grew it to an online marketing, publishing company from ground zero to over one million dollars in sales in under twelve months! Show Notes: What is Heather’s nitch? What should you promote first for your business? What are some of the differences between men and women’s approaches when it comes to getting what they want in business? When or should you become friends with clients? Why are consistency and commitment important? What is H2H and why is it important? Why is it important to google your name every occasionally? Why does everyone fail to succeed? Why did she write her book: Sexy Boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Business? Why are testimonials important to your business? How do you get testimonials? What is Heather’s podcast about? Resources: Sexy boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Success The Win with Heather Havenwood www.heatherhavenwood.com On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have Heather Ann Havenwood! Heather Ann Havenwood is the CEO of Havenwood Worldwide. She is the head chief sexy boss, she is an entrepreneur and a top authority in internet marketing, business strategies, and marketing.

What I found that is very interesting about Heather is that she started her first online business in 1999. If you think about that in 1999 nobody really had computers in their homes. In 2006, she took a company that she developed and grew it to an online marketing, publishing company from ground zero to over one million dollars in sales in under twelve months!

Show Notes:

  • What is Heather’s nitch?
  • What should you promote first for your business?
  • What are some of the differences between men and women’s approaches when it comes to getting what they want in business?
  • When or should you become friends with clients?
  • Why are consistency and commitment important?
  • What is H2H and why is it important?
  • Why is it important to google your name every occasionally?
  • Why does everyone fail to succeed?
  • Why did she write her book: Sexy Boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Business?
  • Why are testimonials important to your business?
  • How do you get testimonials?
  • What is Heather’s podcast about?

Resources:

Sexy boss: How the Empowerment of Women is Changing the Rule Book of Sex, Money, and Success

The Win with Heather Havenwood

www.heatherhavenwood.com

]]> 2623 no 134: Paula Grace - How Do I Build Trust With My Clients? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/134-paula-grace-how-do-i-build-trust-with-my-clients I have Paula Grace with me today! Paula Grace comes to interior design as a second career. Before coming to interior design, she earned master degrees in clinical social work and business administration. She held a directorship in a large behavioral health program and was a senior instructor at the graduate level in a prestigious university medical center. This is exactly why I was so intrigued to bring Paula on the show! In addition to designing interiors, she also designs furniture and area rugs which are available to the trade. Paula Grace also consults and shares her knowledge with us her design colleagues on how to build strong professional relationships with clients, staff and vendors. Show Notes: What are the steps that an interior designer should start out with when trying to build a good relationship with clients? What should a designer talk about in the first meeting with a client? Why is it so important to stick to your original plan? What are some clues that you as a designer have not explained clearly enough what you are about?  What are the four “c”s? How can designers reinforce to their clients that they made the right decision? How can you stay out of the “friend zone”? How can you deal with a person’s bad experience from a previous project? How can you as a leader decide if your staff members are happy in their work environment? What is the organization culture assessment instrument? What is the reveal and heal process? How do the relationships with your clients relate to your relationships with your staff members? How can you keep a great designer happy at a small firm? How open should you be when owning your own business? Resources:  www.paulagracedesigns.com  www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast-birthday-party  www.chairish.com Wed, 01 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have Paula Grace with me today! Paula Grace comes to interior design as a second career. Before coming to interior design, she earned master degrees in clinical social work and business administration. She held a directorship in a large behavioral... I have Paula Grace with me today! Paula Grace comes to interior design as a second career. Before coming to interior design, she earned master degrees in clinical social work and business administration. She held a directorship in a large behavioral health program and was a senior instructor at the graduate level in a prestigious university medical center. This is exactly why I was so intrigued to bring Paula on the show! In addition to designing interiors, she also designs furniture and area rugs which are available to the trade. Paula Grace also consults and shares her knowledge with us her design colleagues on how to build strong professional relationships with clients, staff and vendors. Show Notes: What are the steps that an interior designer should start out with when trying to build a good relationship with clients? What should a designer talk about in the first meeting with a client? Why is it so important to stick to your original plan? What are some clues that you as a designer have not explained clearly enough what you are about?  What are the four “c”s? How can designers reinforce to their clients that they made the right decision? How can you stay out of the “friend zone”? How can you deal with a person’s bad experience from a previous project? How can you as a leader decide if your staff members are happy in their work environment? What is the organization culture assessment instrument? What is the reveal and heal process? How do the relationships with your clients relate to your relationships with your staff members? How can you keep a great designer happy at a small firm? How open should you be when owning your own business? Resources:  www.paulagracedesigns.com  www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast-birthday-party  www.chairish.com I have Paula Grace with me today! Paula Grace comes to interior design as a second career. Before coming to interior design, she earned master degrees in clinical social work and business administration. She held a directorship in a large behavioral health program and was a senior instructor at the graduate level in a prestigious university medical center. This is exactly why I was so intrigued to bring Paula on the show! In addition to designing interiors, she also designs furniture and area rugs which are available to the trade. Paula Grace also consults and shares her knowledge with us her design colleagues on how to build strong professional relationships with clients, staff and vendors.

Show Notes:

  • What are the steps that an interior designer should start out with when trying to build a good relationship with clients?
  • What should a designer talk about in the first meeting with a client?
  • Why is it so important to stick to your original plan?
  • What are some clues that you as a designer have not explained clearly enough what you are about? 
  • What are the four “c”s?
  • How can designers reinforce to their clients that they made the right decision?
  • How can you stay out of the “friend zone”?
  • How can you deal with a person’s bad experience from a previous project?
  • How can you as a leader decide if your staff members are happy in their work environment?
  • What is the organization culture assessment instrument?
  • What is the reveal and heal process?
  • How do the relationships with your clients relate to your relationships with your staff members?
  • How can you keep a great designer happy at a small firm?
  • How open should you be when owning your own business?

Resources: 

www.paulagracedesigns.com 

www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast-birthday-party 

www.chairish.com

]]> 4186 no 133: Gillian C. Rose - Interior Designer and CEO & Founder of The Science of Color http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/133-gillian-c-rose-interior-designer-and-ceo-founder-of-the-science-of-color Gillian Rose is a Canadian transplant whose New York-based interior design and color consultancy firm draws on several years of professional experience in design practice, as well as formal training from Parcel School of Design. As a color scientist, Gillian works to ensure the positive integration of people and their environments. Her consultation process includes supporting the function of space, avoiding the over and under-stimulating spaces based on personality, and avoiding negative emotional and physiological response to the built environment. Gillian is an accredited member of the association of Color Associates of North America and she uses the psychological and physiological impact of color on the human experience to bring exceptional creativity and tailored edge to her design projects. Show Notes: What are the names that Gillian and fellow color scientists refer to themselves as? How many businesses does Gillian have? How does her business The Science of Color help businesses? What does Gillian mean that color is part of our DNA? In what ways does color affect introverts and extroverts? Does instinct play a role in picking colors? Is it possible for people to be living in the wrong colors? When should you create different spaces when colors are not working all the same? Is there such a thing as a general color reaction? Are there certain colors that appeal to our libido? Are the colors that appeal to women and men different? What is the color assessment test? Where should you look to decide what color to use for a space? Who was Gillian’s mentor? What and where is the association of paint color collection? What are clear colors? Resources: www.gillianrosedesign.com  www.thescienceofcolor.com  www.finepaintsofeurope.com Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Gillian Rose is a Canadian transplant whose New York-based interior design and color consultancy firm draws on several years of professional experience in design practice, as well as formal training from Parcel School of Design. As a color scientist,... Gillian Rose is a Canadian transplant whose New York-based interior design and color consultancy firm draws on several years of professional experience in design practice, as well as formal training from Parcel School of Design. As a color scientist, Gillian works to ensure the positive integration of people and their environments. Her consultation process includes supporting the function of space, avoiding the over and under-stimulating spaces based on personality, and avoiding negative emotional and physiological response to the built environment. Gillian is an accredited member of the association of Color Associates of North America and she uses the psychological and physiological impact of color on the human experience to bring exceptional creativity and tailored edge to her design projects. Show Notes: What are the names that Gillian and fellow color scientists refer to themselves as? How many businesses does Gillian have? How does her business The Science of Color help businesses? What does Gillian mean that color is part of our DNA? In what ways does color affect introverts and extroverts? Does instinct play a role in picking colors? Is it possible for people to be living in the wrong colors? When should you create different spaces when colors are not working all the same? Is there such a thing as a general color reaction? Are there certain colors that appeal to our libido? Are the colors that appeal to women and men different? What is the color assessment test? Where should you look to decide what color to use for a space? Who was Gillian’s mentor? What and where is the association of paint color collection? What are clear colors? Resources: www.gillianrosedesign.com  www.thescienceofcolor.com  www.finepaintsofeurope.com Gillian Rose is a Canadian transplant whose New York-based interior design and color consultancy firm draws on several years of professional experience in design practice, as well as formal training from Parcel School of Design. As a color scientist, Gillian works to ensure the positive integration of people and their environments. Her consultation process includes supporting the function of space, avoiding the over and under-stimulating spaces based on personality, and avoiding negative emotional and physiological response to the built environment. Gillian is an accredited member of the association of Color Associates of North America and she uses the psychological and physiological impact of color on the human experience to bring exceptional creativity and tailored edge to her design projects.

Show Notes:

  • What are the names that Gillian and fellow color scientists refer to themselves as?
  • How many businesses does Gillian have?
  • How does her business The Science of Color help businesses?
  • What does Gillian mean that color is part of our DNA?
  • In what ways does color affect introverts and extroverts?
  • Does instinct play a role in picking colors?
  • Is it possible for people to be living in the wrong colors?
  • When should you create different spaces when colors are not working all the same?
  • Is there such a thing as a general color reaction?
  • Are there certain colors that appeal to our libido?
  • Are the colors that appeal to women and men different?
  • What is the color assessment test?
  • Where should you look to decide what color to use for a space?
  • Who was Gillian’s mentor?
  • What and where is the association of paint color collection?
  • What are clear colors?

Resources:

www.gillianrosedesign.com 

www.thescienceofcolor.com 

www.finepaintsofeurope.com

]]> 3516 no 132: Power Talk Friday - Cathi Hargaden - Feng Shui Influences Your Personal & Business Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/132-power-talk-friday-cathi-hargaden-feng-shui-influences-your-personal-business-success Today I have Cathi Hargaden on this power talk Friday! Interestingly enough for you interior designers, she is a feng shui expert. She has been practicing and teaching this for over twenty years.  She has taught this at workshops, universities, demonstrations at retail stores, hospitals, homes etc. She has traveled to several countries doing this for small businesses. I know you are all thinking we already know about feng shui and how to teach this. What we are going to talk to Cathi about is how feng shui relates to our business and success. Show Notes: What ways can you bring tenacity to your business? What is so important about what “sits behind you”? What should be in front of you at your workspace? How can you make your environment project what kind of person you are? How should your desk be arranged in your workplace? How can plants help your work environment? How can you put power into your workspace? In what way, should an interior designer’s layout their personal space? What sort of help or tools does Cathi have to declutter? How do you identify what elements you need more of? What does water flow represent? What is the power of signs? How does space clearing relate to safety? How many different kinds of feng shui are there? Resources: www.wealthyspaces.com www.facebook.com/wealthyspaces Fri, 27 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today I have Cathi Hargaden on this power talk Friday! Interestingly enough for you interior designers, she is a feng shui expert. She has been practicing and teaching this for over twenty years.  She has taught this at workshops, universities,... Today I have Cathi Hargaden on this power talk Friday! Interestingly enough for you interior designers, she is a feng shui expert. She has been practicing and teaching this for over twenty years.  She has taught this at workshops, universities, demonstrations at retail stores, hospitals, homes etc. She has traveled to several countries doing this for small businesses. I know you are all thinking we already know about feng shui and how to teach this. What we are going to talk to Cathi about is how feng shui relates to our business and success. Show Notes: What ways can you bring tenacity to your business? What is so important about what “sits behind you”? What should be in front of you at your workspace? How can you make your environment project what kind of person you are? How should your desk be arranged in your workplace? How can plants help your work environment? How can you put power into your workspace? In what way, should an interior designer’s layout their personal space? What sort of help or tools does Cathi have to declutter? How do you identify what elements you need more of? What does water flow represent? What is the power of signs? How does space clearing relate to safety? How many different kinds of feng shui are there? Resources: www.wealthyspaces.com www.facebook.com/wealthyspaces Today I have Cathi Hargaden on this power talk Friday! Interestingly enough for you interior designers, she is a feng shui expert. She has been practicing and teaching this for over twenty years.  She has taught this at workshops, universities, demonstrations at retail stores, hospitals, homes etc. She has traveled to several countries doing this for small businesses. I know you are all thinking we already know about feng shui and how to teach this. What we are going to talk to Cathi about is how feng shui relates to our business and success.

Show Notes:

  • What ways can you bring tenacity to your business?
  • What is so important about what “sits behind you”?
  • What should be in front of you at your workspace?
  • How can you make your environment project what kind of person you are?
  • How should your desk be arranged in your workplace?
  • How can plants help your work environment?
  • How can you put power into your workspace?
  • In what way, should an interior designer’s layout their personal space?
  • What sort of help or tools does Cathi have to declutter?
  • How do you identify what elements you need more of?
  • What does water flow represent?
  • What is the power of signs?
  • How does space clearing relate to safety?
  • How many different kinds of feng shui are there?

Resources:

www.wealthyspaces.com

www.facebook.com/wealthyspaces

]]> 3635 no 131: Barbara Sallick- Practical Advice from Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Design of Waterworks on Designing the Perfect Bath http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/131-barbara-sallick-practical-advice-from-co-founder-and-sr-designer-of-waterworks-on-designing-the-perfect-bath Welcome back! On the show today I have Barbara Sallick! She is the Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Design for Waterworks, and Author of ‘The Perfect Bath’. In 1978, Barbara and her husband Robert Sallick founded Waterworks, a luxury kitchen and bath brand in Danbury, Connecticut. The two are dedicated to bringing the European style to the American bath market. In the years to follow Waterworks has transformed the kitchen and bath market. Barbara has applied her education and lifelong love for art, antiques, travel and the principles for architecture and decoration to educate those around her and to elevate the bath to a room that is as beautiful, personal, inviting as it is practical. Today on the show Barbara is going to share with us the steps to confidentially design and execute a perfect bath project. Show Notes: What sort of things does Waterworks help a person do? When should you have experts help you with your bathroom? Who do you need to have on your team when starting on a bathroom project? What is an architecture trim? Why is important to work with the right sales consultant for you? Why should you not be intimidated when walking into Waterworks? When should you bring your client to the showroom? How much homework should you do before you bring a client to the showroom? What sort of lingo should you have when coming to Waterworks? What sort of customer service does Waterworks have? When should you call the client service department when working with Waterworks? When did Barbara and her husband pivot their business, Waterworks? Why was this pivot such an important decision for more success for the business? What is her new book, The Perfect Bath about? Resources: www.waterworks.com www.windowworks-nj.com/barbara The Perfect Bath Waterworks: Inventing Bath Style Wed, 25 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back! On the show today I have Barbara Sallick! She is the Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Design for Waterworks, and Author of ‘The Perfect Bath’. In 1978, Barbara and her husband Robert Sallick founded Waterworks, a luxury... Welcome back! On the show today I have Barbara Sallick! She is the Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Design for Waterworks, and Author of ‘The Perfect Bath’. In 1978, Barbara and her husband Robert Sallick founded Waterworks, a luxury kitchen and bath brand in Danbury, Connecticut. The two are dedicated to bringing the European style to the American bath market. In the years to follow Waterworks has transformed the kitchen and bath market. Barbara has applied her education and lifelong love for art, antiques, travel and the principles for architecture and decoration to educate those around her and to elevate the bath to a room that is as beautiful, personal, inviting as it is practical. Today on the show Barbara is going to share with us the steps to confidentially design and execute a perfect bath project. Show Notes: What sort of things does Waterworks help a person do? When should you have experts help you with your bathroom? Who do you need to have on your team when starting on a bathroom project? What is an architecture trim? Why is important to work with the right sales consultant for you? Why should you not be intimidated when walking into Waterworks? When should you bring your client to the showroom? How much homework should you do before you bring a client to the showroom? What sort of lingo should you have when coming to Waterworks? What sort of customer service does Waterworks have? When should you call the client service department when working with Waterworks? When did Barbara and her husband pivot their business, Waterworks? Why was this pivot such an important decision for more success for the business? What is her new book, The Perfect Bath about? Resources: www.waterworks.com www.windowworks-nj.com/barbara The Perfect Bath Waterworks: Inventing Bath Style Welcome back! On the show today I have Barbara Sallick! She is the Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Design for Waterworks, and Author of ‘The Perfect Bath’. In 1978, Barbara and her husband Robert Sallick founded Waterworks, a luxury kitchen and bath brand in Danbury, Connecticut.

The two are dedicated to bringing the European style to the American bath market. In the years to follow Waterworks has transformed the kitchen and bath market. Barbara has applied her education and lifelong love for art, antiques, travel and the principles for architecture and decoration to educate those around her and to elevate the bath to a room that is as beautiful, personal, inviting as it is practical.

Today on the show Barbara is going to share with us the steps to confidentially design and execute a perfect bath project.

Show Notes:

  • What sort of things does Waterworks help a person do?
  • When should you have experts help you with your bathroom?
  • Who do you need to have on your team when starting on a bathroom project?
  • What is an architecture trim?
  • Why is important to work with the right sales consultant for you?
  • Why should you not be intimidated when walking into Waterworks?
  • When should you bring your client to the showroom?
  • How much homework should you do before you bring a client to the showroom?
  • What sort of lingo should you have when coming to Waterworks?
  • What sort of customer service does Waterworks have?
  • When should you call the client service department when working with Waterworks?
  • When did Barbara and her husband pivot their business, Waterworks?
  • Why was this pivot such an important decision for more success for the business?
  • What is her new book, The Perfect Bath about?

Resources:

www.waterworks.com

www.windowworks-nj.com/barbara

The Perfect Bath

Waterworks: Inventing Bath Style

]]> 3541 no 130: Kate O'Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O'Hara Interiors http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/130-kate-ohara-director-of-marketing-business-develpoment-for-martha-ohara-interiors On the show, today I have Kate O’ Hara of Martha O’ Hara Interiors. She is another guest that has been requested by a listener! Kate O’ Hara is the director of business and marketing development at the Minneapolis, Minnesota and Austin, Texas-based interior design firm Martha O’ Hara Interiors. After pioneering the local firms’ expansion to national markets and international clientele. Kate was named one of Minnesota’s the top thirty-two under thirty-two marketing professionals. She has played a leading role growing and refining Martha O’ Hara marketing strategy and social media presence. You will hear Kate talk about how they have over 200000 followers on Facebook and how they rated as a top industry expert on houzz.com. These things happened under Kate’s leadership. Her mother Martha runs their award winning interior design team which has been featured in local and national media. Show Notes: How did Martha O’ Hara Interiors get started? What are some things that have made Martha O’ Hara Interiors successful? What should be on the hiring criteria? What is the interview all about? How many times should you “meet” someone before hiring them? What is the most important investment for the business? How does the hiring process work through Martha O’ Hara Interiors? How does the Houzz.com platform work for promoting business? How can you get more reviews on Houzz.com? What are some things you can do to get more followers? How does Martha O’Hara Interiors prepare for the questions going to be asked on Houzz.com? Any response is better than no response! How does different social media platforms work together for a better presence? Resources: www.houzz.com www.oharainteriors.com www.instagram.com/oharainteriorsofficial www.facebook.com  Mon, 23 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show, today I have Kate O’ Hara of Martha O’ Hara Interiors. She is another guest that has been requested by a listener! Kate O’ Hara is the director of business and marketing development at the Minneapolis, Minnesota and Austin,... On the show, today I have Kate O’ Hara of Martha O’ Hara Interiors. She is another guest that has been requested by a listener! Kate O’ Hara is the director of business and marketing development at the Minneapolis, Minnesota and Austin, Texas-based interior design firm Martha O’ Hara Interiors. After pioneering the local firms’ expansion to national markets and international clientele. Kate was named one of Minnesota’s the top thirty-two under thirty-two marketing professionals. She has played a leading role growing and refining Martha O’ Hara marketing strategy and social media presence. You will hear Kate talk about how they have over 200000 followers on Facebook and how they rated as a top industry expert on houzz.com. These things happened under Kate’s leadership. Her mother Martha runs their award winning interior design team which has been featured in local and national media. Show Notes: How did Martha O’ Hara Interiors get started? What are some things that have made Martha O’ Hara Interiors successful? What should be on the hiring criteria? What is the interview all about? How many times should you “meet” someone before hiring them? What is the most important investment for the business? How does the hiring process work through Martha O’ Hara Interiors? How does the Houzz.com platform work for promoting business? How can you get more reviews on Houzz.com? What are some things you can do to get more followers? How does Martha O’Hara Interiors prepare for the questions going to be asked on Houzz.com? Any response is better than no response! How does different social media platforms work together for a better presence? Resources: www.houzz.com www.oharainteriors.com www.instagram.com/oharainteriorsofficial www.facebook.com  On the show, today I have Kate O’ Hara of Martha O’ Hara Interiors. She is another guest that has been requested by a listener! Kate O’ Hara is the director of business and marketing development at the Minneapolis, Minnesota and Austin, Texas-based interior design firm Martha O’ Hara Interiors.

After pioneering the local firms’ expansion to national markets and international clientele. Kate was named one of Minnesota’s the top thirty-two under thirty-two marketing professionals. She has played a leading role growing and refining Martha O’ Hara marketing strategy and social media presence.

You will hear Kate talk about how they have over 200000 followers on Facebook and how they rated as a top industry expert on houzz.com. These things happened under Kate’s leadership. Her mother Martha runs their award winning interior design team which has been featured in local and national media.

Show Notes:

  • How did Martha O’ Hara Interiors get started?
  • What are some things that have made Martha O’ Hara Interiors successful?
  • What should be on the hiring criteria?
  • What is the interview all about?
  • How many times should you “meet” someone before hiring them?
  • What is the most important investment for the business?
  • How does the hiring process work through Martha O’ Hara Interiors?
  • How does the Houzz.com platform work for promoting business?
  • How can you get more reviews on Houzz.com?
  • What are some things you can do to get more followers?
  • How does Martha O’Hara Interiors prepare for the questions going to be asked on Houzz.com?
  • Any response is better than no response!
  • How does different social media platforms work together for a better presence?

Resources:

www.houzz.com

www.oharainteriors.com

www.instagram.com/oharainteriorsofficial

www.facebook.com 

]]> 4558 no 129: Power Talk Friday - Kwame Christian- Negotiation For Entrepreneurs http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/-129-power-talk-friday-kwame-christian-negotiation-for-entrepreneurs On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have finally brought a lawyer to you! I have been thinking about it for a while and I have Kwame Christian with us today! Kwame is part of the American Negotiation Institute and a fellow podcaster. He is the host of negotiation of entrepreneurs and he is very passionate about teaching business professionals like us to negotiate and be more persuasive. I love negotiation almost as much as I love sales! Kwame has a lot of great advice and tips you don’t want to miss out on. Show Notes: What is Kwame’s definition of negotiation? Who do we negotiate with the most? What is a “date test” and why is it important? How can negotiation help be a better communicator? How can persuasion help you be a better business person? What are the three things you need to be a good negotiator? What is the difference between an open-ended and a close ended question? When should you find out someone’s push points? Where do you as a business person need to find confidence first? What is the first step for negotiation? How has society shaped women on how to get what they want? What is the art of concession? When and how should you say yes and no? Why should you say no? What is a no sandwich? Resources: www.americannegotiationinstitute.com  www.linkedin.com www.kchristianlaw.com Kwame's Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negotiation-for-entrepreneurs/id1101679010?mt=2   About Kwame: http://americannegotiationinstitute.com/about/ Fri, 20 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have finally brought a lawyer to you! I have been thinking about it for a while and I have Kwame Christian with us today! Kwame is part of the American Negotiation Institute and a fellow podcaster. He... On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have finally brought a lawyer to you! I have been thinking about it for a while and I have Kwame Christian with us today! Kwame is part of the American Negotiation Institute and a fellow podcaster. He is the host of negotiation of entrepreneurs and he is very passionate about teaching business professionals like us to negotiate and be more persuasive. I love negotiation almost as much as I love sales! Kwame has a lot of great advice and tips you don’t want to miss out on. Show Notes: What is Kwame’s definition of negotiation? Who do we negotiate with the most? What is a “date test” and why is it important? How can negotiation help be a better communicator? How can persuasion help you be a better business person? What are the three things you need to be a good negotiator? What is the difference between an open-ended and a close ended question? When should you find out someone’s push points? Where do you as a business person need to find confidence first? What is the first step for negotiation? How has society shaped women on how to get what they want? What is the art of concession? When and how should you say yes and no? Why should you say no? What is a no sandwich? Resources: www.americannegotiationinstitute.com  www.linkedin.com www.kchristianlaw.com Kwame's Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negotiation-for-entrepreneurs/id1101679010?mt=2   About Kwame: http://americannegotiationinstitute.com/about/ On this power talk Friday I am happy to say that I have finally brought a lawyer to you! I have been thinking about it for a while and I have Kwame Christian with us today! Kwame is part of the American Negotiation Institute and a fellow podcaster. He is the host of negotiation of entrepreneurs and he is very passionate about teaching business professionals like us to negotiate and be more persuasive. I love negotiation almost as much as I love sales! Kwame has a lot of great advice and tips you don’t want to miss out on.

Show Notes:

  • What is Kwame’s definition of negotiation?
  • Who do we negotiate with the most?
  • What is a “date test” and why is it important?
  • How can negotiation help be a better communicator?
  • How can persuasion help you be a better business person?
  • What are the three things you need to be a good negotiator?
  • What is the difference between an open-ended and a close ended question?
  • When should you find out someone’s push points?
  • Where do you as a business person need to find confidence first?
  • What is the first step for negotiation?
  • How has society shaped women on how to get what they want?
  • What is the art of concession?
  • When and how should you say yes and no?
  • Why should you say no?
  • What is a no sandwich?

Resources:

www.americannegotiationinstitute.com 

www.linkedin.com

www.kchristianlaw.com

Kwame's Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negotiation-for-entrepreneurs/id1101679010?mt=2   About Kwame: http://americannegotiationinstitute.com/about/]]> 3463 no 128: Grace McNamara- Owner, Publisher, Producer of IWCE & Window Fashions Vision Magazine http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/128-grace-mcnamara-owner-publisher-producer-of-iwce-window-fashions-vision-magazine Today on the show we have Grace McNamara. Grace has owned and produced window fashion Vision magazine since 1986. Vision is the business publication for the window covering industry in North America. I can certainly attest to this, we have subscribed to this magazine since the very beginning of our business! It is always full from cover to cover of useful information. In addition, Grace also produces the international window coverings expo, the industries national trade show and educational conference. Also, in 1990 Grace developed the window fashion certified professionals program. The longest ongoing training for window coverings professionals. Grace is a member of the international furnishings and design association and a press member of ASID and IIDA. Show Notes: What two areas has Grace niched her business in? Why did Grace choose window treatments? Is there anyone else that addresses this market the way that Grace does? How did she come across the cake design business? What was the practical and emotional situations when deciding to buy a business? Why is confidence so important when running a business? What is IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo)? Where is, the IWCE going to be held? What is going to be offered at IWCE that would be helpful to businesses? Who are some of the speakers that will be at IWCE? How many seminars does Grace have available for the Expo? How does she come up with the topics for the Expo? How do you register for the Expo seminars? Why did Grace decide to have the Expo in Charlotte this year? How many attendees are there generally at the expos? Resources: www.iwce-vision.com www.wf-vision.com http://windowworks-nj.com/join-luann-nigara-for-opening-ceremonies-iwce-2017/ Wed, 18 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have Grace McNamara. Grace has owned and produced window fashion Vision magazine since 1986. Vision is the business publication for the window covering industry in North America. I can certainly attest to this, we have subscribed... Today on the show we have Grace McNamara. Grace has owned and produced window fashion Vision magazine since 1986. Vision is the business publication for the window covering industry in North America. I can certainly attest to this, we have subscribed to this magazine since the very beginning of our business! It is always full from cover to cover of useful information. In addition, Grace also produces the international window coverings expo, the industries national trade show and educational conference. Also, in 1990 Grace developed the window fashion certified professionals program. The longest ongoing training for window coverings professionals. Grace is a member of the international furnishings and design association and a press member of ASID and IIDA. Show Notes: What two areas has Grace niched her business in? Why did Grace choose window treatments? Is there anyone else that addresses this market the way that Grace does? How did she come across the cake design business? What was the practical and emotional situations when deciding to buy a business? Why is confidence so important when running a business? What is IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo)? Where is, the IWCE going to be held? What is going to be offered at IWCE that would be helpful to businesses? Who are some of the speakers that will be at IWCE? How many seminars does Grace have available for the Expo? How does she come up with the topics for the Expo? How do you register for the Expo seminars? Why did Grace decide to have the Expo in Charlotte this year? How many attendees are there generally at the expos? Resources: www.iwce-vision.com www.wf-vision.com http://windowworks-nj.com/join-luann-nigara-for-opening-ceremonies-iwce-2017/ Today on the show we have Grace McNamara. Grace has owned and produced window fashion Vision magazine since 1986. Vision is the business publication for the window covering industry in North America. I can certainly attest to this, we have subscribed to this magazine since the very beginning of our business! It is always full from cover to cover of useful information. In addition, Grace also produces the international window coverings expo, the industries national trade show and educational conference. Also, in 1990 Grace developed the window fashion certified professionals program. The longest ongoing training for window coverings professionals. Grace is a member of the international furnishings and design association and a press member of ASID and IIDA.

Show Notes:

  • What two areas has Grace niched her business in?
  • Why did Grace choose window treatments?
  • Is there anyone else that addresses this market the way that Grace does?
  • How did she come across the cake design business?
  • What was the practical and emotional situations when deciding to buy a business?
  • Why is confidence so important when running a business?
  • What is IWCE (International Window Coverings Expo)?
  • Where is, the IWCE going to be held?
  • What is going to be offered at IWCE that would be helpful to businesses?
  • Who are some of the speakers that will be at IWCE?
  • How many seminars does Grace have available for the Expo?
  • How does she come up with the topics for the Expo?
  • How do you register for the Expo seminars?
  • Why did Grace decide to have the Expo in Charlotte this year?
  • How many attendees are there generally at the expos?

Resources:

www.iwce-vision.com

www.wf-vision.com

http://windowworks-nj.com/join-luann-nigara-for-opening-ceremonies-iwce-2017/

]]> 4136 no 127: Corey Damen Jenkins- Interior Designer, Furniture Designer, & Gentleman http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/127-corey-damen-jenkins-interior-designer-furniture-designer-gentleman I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from Corey Damen is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan.  In 2011, television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for Leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 Arts Award for the Best Product Design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities. Show Notes: What was the process like to get Corey Damen to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown? What were the reasons that Corey Damen was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown? How has Corey Damen learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things? How does he get the most out of his projects? Does he use PR firms? When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized? How did Corey Damen decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft? What is Leathercraft? How did Corey Damen decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection? Who did Corey Damen name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after? How does he come up with his designs for his furniture? Resources: His website: http://coreydamenjenkins.com   His Leathercraft Furniture line: http://coreydamenjenkins.com/collections/   The Kate Spade Collection for Kravet which was mentioned in the episode: http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/kate-spade-new-york/   Mon, 16 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from Corey Damen is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person... I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from Corey Damen is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan.  In 2011, television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for Leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 Arts Award for the Best Product Design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities. Show Notes: What was the process like to get Corey Damen to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown? What were the reasons that Corey Damen was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown? How has Corey Damen learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things? How does he get the most out of his projects? Does he use PR firms? When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized? How did Corey Damen decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft? What is Leathercraft? How did Corey Damen decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection? Who did Corey Damen name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after? How does he come up with his designs for his furniture? Resources: His website: http://coreydamenjenkins.com   His Leathercraft Furniture line: http://coreydamenjenkins.com/collections/   The Kate Spade Collection for Kravet which was mentioned in the episode: http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/kate-spade-new-york/   I have another outstanding show for you today! Corey Damen Jenkins is with me today and he is no exception to the amazing people I have been meeting. What you will learn from Corey Damen is that he is one of the good guys. He is the kind of person that everyone would agree is very open, sincere, humble and giving. What you may or may not know about Corey is that he is the principal of Corey Damen Jenkins Associates which is located in Birmingham, Michigan. 

In 2011, television audiences voted him the winning design star of HGTV’s Show House Showdown. Since then it has been a whirlwind of accomplishments! Today we are going to talk about how his lifelong dream came true in 2016 with his launch of his first couture collection of furniture, Corey Damen Jenkins exclusively for Leathercraft. This collection was nominated for the prestigious 2017 Arts Award for the Best Product Design. Once you start to listen to this episode it will be no surprise to you that Corey Damen believes in giving back to the design community. His firm generously donates to several charities.

Show Notes:

  • What was the process like to get Corey Damen to decide to get on HGTV’s Show House Showdown?
  • What were the reasons that Corey Damen was cast for HGTV’s Show House Showdown?
  • How has Corey Damen learned to deal with his past insecurities and reconstruct the way he deals with things?
  • How does he get the most out of his projects?
  • Does he use PR firms?
  • When working with a PR firm how should a design firm behave and be organized?
  • How did Corey Damen decide to design his furniture through Leathercraft?
  • What is Leathercraft?
  • How did Corey Damen decide what fabrics to use on his furniture collection?
  • Who did Corey Damen name a piece of his furniture in his new collection after?
  • How does he come up with his designs for his furniture?

Resources:

His website:

http://coreydamenjenkins.com

 

His Leathercraft Furniture line:

http://coreydamenjenkins.com/collections/

 

The Kate Spade Collection for Kravet which was mentioned in the episode:

http://www.kravet.com/products/collections/kate-spade-new-york/

 

]]> 3841 no 126: Power Talk Friday - Kimberley Seldon- "Win The Flat Fee Game” http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/126-power-talk-friday-kimberley-seldon-win-the-flat-fee-game On this power talk Friday I am excited to say that Kimberley Seldon with me again on the show. If you remember she was just on the show about a month ago, and she has her interior design business but she also has Business of Design where she teaches interior designers how to run their businesses more effectively and more profitably. Kimberley’s Business of Design is one of our happy sponsors here! Show Notes: How long did it take Kimberley to write her third book? When does her third book come out? Does Kimberley like flat fees? What are the steps to turning your business’s business model around? What systems should be in place when you decide to “try”? Should the fees or the client wish list change? Make sure to document! Does a designer have to track everything even though they have a flat fee? Are there projects that have no deficiencies? How should a designer expect to be paid? How can you make yourself sound professional and confident when talking about money? How can you tell when you have a mature pier? What happens when a client misses payments? How many times should you talk or ask about money? How should you deal with a change in a project? How should the client be billed when something does change in a project? When is Kimberley’s newest webinar? Is Kimberley’s Webinar free? Resources: Volume One: Have the Professional Life You’ve Always Wanted http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-1/ Volume Two: Make Every Project Satisfying for Both you and your Client http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-2/ How to Win the Flat Fee Game http://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/   Kimberley's website: www.kimberleyseldon.com www.businessofdesign.com "Join today and start to turn your business in the right direction. And a reminder Basic membership is free and you'll receive a free download of Kimberley's book 10 Profit Drivers for signing up."     The new book coming 1/31/17   Fri, 13 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On this power talk Friday I am excited to say that Kimberley Seldon with me again on the show. If you remember she was just on the show about a month ago, and she has her interior design business but she also has Business of Design where she teaches... On this power talk Friday I am excited to say that Kimberley Seldon with me again on the show. If you remember she was just on the show about a month ago, and she has her interior design business but she also has Business of Design where she teaches interior designers how to run their businesses more effectively and more profitably. Kimberley’s Business of Design is one of our happy sponsors here! Show Notes: How long did it take Kimberley to write her third book? When does her third book come out? Does Kimberley like flat fees? What are the steps to turning your business’s business model around? What systems should be in place when you decide to “try”? Should the fees or the client wish list change? Make sure to document! Does a designer have to track everything even though they have a flat fee? Are there projects that have no deficiencies? How should a designer expect to be paid? How can you make yourself sound professional and confident when talking about money? How can you tell when you have a mature pier? What happens when a client misses payments? How many times should you talk or ask about money? How should you deal with a change in a project? How should the client be billed when something does change in a project? When is Kimberley’s newest webinar? Is Kimberley’s Webinar free? Resources: Volume One: Have the Professional Life You’ve Always Wanted http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-1/ Volume Two: Make Every Project Satisfying for Both you and your Client http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-2/ How to Win the Flat Fee Game http://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/   Kimberley's website: www.kimberleyseldon.com www.businessofdesign.com "Join today and start to turn your business in the right direction. And a reminder Basic membership is free and you'll receive a free download of Kimberley's book 10 Profit Drivers for signing up."     The new book coming 1/31/17   On this power talk Friday I am excited to say that Kimberley Seldon with me again on the show. If you remember she was just on the show about a month ago, and she has her interior design business but she also has Business of Design where she teaches interior designers how to run their businesses more effectively and more profitably. Kimberley’s Business of Design is one of our happy sponsors here!

Show Notes:

  • How long did it take Kimberley to write her third book?
  • When does her third book come out?
  • Does Kimberley like flat fees?
  • What are the steps to turning your business’s business model around?
  • What systems should be in place when you decide to “try”?
  • Should the fees or the client wish list change?
  • Make sure to document!
  • Does a designer have to track everything even though they have a flat fee?
  • Are there projects that have no deficiencies?
  • How should a designer expect to be paid?
  • How can you make yourself sound professional and confident when talking about money?
  • How can you tell when you have a mature pier?
  • What happens when a client misses payments?
  • How many times should you talk or ask about money?
  • How should you deal with a change in a project?
  • How should the client be billed when something does change in a project?
  • When is Kimberley’s newest webinar?
  • Is Kimberley’s Webinar free?

Resources:

Volume One: Have the Professional Life You’ve Always Wanted http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-1/

Volume Two: Make Every Project Satisfying for Both you and your Client http://businessofdesign.com/product/business-of-design-volume-2/

How to Win the Flat Fee Game http://businessofdesign.com/events/win-the-flat-fee-game/

  Kimberley's website:

www.kimberleyseldon.com

www.businessofdesign.com

"Join today and start to turn your business in the right direction. And a reminder Basic membership is free and you'll receive a free download of Kimberley's book 10 Profit Drivers for signing up."     The new book coming 1/31/17  ]]> 3741 no 125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/125-nicole-heymer-how-to-brand-your-business-yes-again-do-not-miss-this-one On the show today I am so excited to introduce you all to Nicole Heymer! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro Boutique Web Design Agency that specializes in branding, content strategy and web design and development for interior design firms and other innovative businesses. She has been helping more interior designers bring in more leads and increase their visibility online since 2011! I know we have talked about branding on the show more than a couple times, but this is such an important aspect of your business in this age of social media. I promise there is more to learn about branding. Show Notes: Why is branding so important for interior designers? How does Nicole divide the ways to look at branding? What are the benefits of having a brand? How can you let people know what you really want or enjoy to design? Can you have too much “language” on your about me page? Give the reasons why! How does a client determine “your worth” and what to pay an interior designer? How should you pick your colors? Why are colors and what they mean so important? How do you figure out your message? What is the bare minimum you can do when starting out? Why is font important? What should be included in your branding guidelines? Is it worth it to hire a photographer if possible? What can you do to let people know you can do what they want, even when you have no projects yet? How can a designer “beef up” their website when starting out? How can a designer use blogging to express their brand? When should and shouldn’t a designer use a blog? What else could be used for good website content? What makes you different? Resources: www.curioelectro.com http://curioelectro.com/interior-design-branding http://curioelectro.com/seo-for-interior-designers-architects   Wed, 11 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today I am so excited to introduce you all to Nicole Heymer! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro Boutique Web Design Agency that specializes in branding, content strategy and web design and development for interior design firms and other... On the show today I am so excited to introduce you all to Nicole Heymer! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro Boutique Web Design Agency that specializes in branding, content strategy and web design and development for interior design firms and other innovative businesses. She has been helping more interior designers bring in more leads and increase their visibility online since 2011! I know we have talked about branding on the show more than a couple times, but this is such an important aspect of your business in this age of social media. I promise there is more to learn about branding. Show Notes: Why is branding so important for interior designers? How does Nicole divide the ways to look at branding? What are the benefits of having a brand? How can you let people know what you really want or enjoy to design? Can you have too much “language” on your about me page? Give the reasons why! How does a client determine “your worth” and what to pay an interior designer? How should you pick your colors? Why are colors and what they mean so important? How do you figure out your message? What is the bare minimum you can do when starting out? Why is font important? What should be included in your branding guidelines? Is it worth it to hire a photographer if possible? What can you do to let people know you can do what they want, even when you have no projects yet? How can a designer “beef up” their website when starting out? How can a designer use blogging to express their brand? When should and shouldn’t a designer use a blog? What else could be used for good website content? What makes you different? Resources: www.curioelectro.com http://curioelectro.com/interior-design-branding http://curioelectro.com/seo-for-interior-designers-architects   On the show today I am so excited to introduce you all to Nicole Heymer! Nicole is the owner of Curio Electro Boutique Web Design Agency that specializes in branding, content strategy and web design and development for interior design firms and other innovative businesses. She has been helping more interior designers bring in more leads and increase their visibility online since 2011! I know we have talked about branding on the show more than a couple times, but this is such an important aspect of your business in this age of social media. I promise there is more to learn about branding.

Show Notes:

  • Why is branding so important for interior designers?
  • How does Nicole divide the ways to look at branding?
  • What are the benefits of having a brand?
  • How can you let people know what you really want or enjoy to design?
  • Can you have too much “language” on your about me page?
  • Give the reasons why!
  • How does a client determine “your worth” and what to pay an interior designer?
  • How should you pick your colors?
  • Why are colors and what they mean so important?
  • How do you figure out your message?
  • What is the bare minimum you can do when starting out?
  • Why is font important?
  • What should be included in your branding guidelines?
  • Is it worth it to hire a photographer if possible?
  • What can you do to let people know you can do what they want, even when you have no projects yet?
  • How can a designer “beef up” their website when starting out?
  • How can a designer use blogging to express their brand?
  • When should and shouldn’t a designer use a blog?
  • What else could be used for good website content?
  • What makes you different?

Resources:

www.curioelectro.com

http://curioelectro.com/interior-design-branding

http://curioelectro.com/seo-for-interior-designers-architects   ]]> 5210 no 124: Michelle Nussbaumer- Owner & Lead Designer of Ceylon et Cie http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/124-michelle-nussbaumer-owner-lead-designer-of-ceylon-et-cie Today one the show I am talking with Michelle Nussbaumer. Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Recently her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Today Michelle and I talk about her career, her opinions on the business and her globetrotting lifestyle. Show Notes: How does Michelle keep up with everything she has going on? Does Michelle have different teams or organizations for each project? Where did Michelle just sign a licensing agreement? How are her schedules set up and what system(s) does she use? Is her business a family business? How big is her team and who does what? How does she try to make all of her home designs feel? What is Michelle’s business model for designs? What advice would Michelle give to a brand-new designer fresh out of school? What has her experience been with interns? Can a person do a trial run to decide if you want to work at a design firm? How did she decide to write a book? How did she decide what her book, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home would be about? How did Michelle find her agent for her book? What is the process like when writing a book? What about her fabric business? Will her fabrics be in showrooms? Resources: www.ceylonetcie.com To purchase Michelle's book:   http://www.rizzoliusa.com/book.php?isbn=9780847848911 Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home Mon, 09 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today one the show I am talking with Michelle Nussbaumer. Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a... Today one the show I am talking with Michelle Nussbaumer. Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Recently her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Today Michelle and I talk about her career, her opinions on the business and her globetrotting lifestyle. Show Notes: How does Michelle keep up with everything she has going on? Does Michelle have different teams or organizations for each project? Where did Michelle just sign a licensing agreement? How are her schedules set up and what system(s) does she use? Is her business a family business? How big is her team and who does what? How does she try to make all of her home designs feel? What is Michelle’s business model for designs? What advice would Michelle give to a brand-new designer fresh out of school? What has her experience been with interns? Can a person do a trial run to decide if you want to work at a design firm? How did she decide to write a book? How did she decide what her book, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home would be about? How did Michelle find her agent for her book? What is the process like when writing a book? What about her fabric business? Will her fabrics be in showrooms? Resources: www.ceylonetcie.com To purchase Michelle's book:   http://www.rizzoliusa.com/book.php?isbn=9780847848911 Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home Today one the show I am talking with Michelle Nussbaumer. Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Recently her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Today Michelle and I talk about her career, her opinions on the business and her globetrotting lifestyle.

Show Notes:

  • How does Michelle keep up with everything she has going on?
  • Does Michelle have different teams or organizations for each project?
  • Where did Michelle just sign a licensing agreement?
  • How are her schedules set up and what system(s) does she use?
  • Is her business a family business?
  • How big is her team and who does what?
  • How does she try to make all of her home designs feel?
  • What is Michelle’s business model for designs?
  • What advice would Michelle give to a brand-new designer fresh out of school?
  • What has her experience been with interns?
  • Can a person do a trial run to decide if you want to work at a design firm?
  • How did she decide to write a book?
  • How did she decide what her book, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home would be about?
  • How did Michelle find her agent for her book?
  • What is the process like when writing a book?
  • What about her fabric business?
  • Will her fabrics be in showrooms?

Resources:

www.ceylonetcie.com

To purchase Michelle's book:   http://www.rizzoliusa.com/book.php?isbn=9780847848911

Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home

]]> 3575 no 123: Power Talk Friday - Marianne Cherico- Announcing a Tele Summit Opportunity - Your Home Staging Business on Fire! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/123-power-talk-friday-marianne-cherico-announcing-a-tele-summit-opportunity-your-home-staging-business-on-fire Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know I have Marianne Cherico back with me! If you remember episode 75 Marianne and I talked about her philosophy on asking “what would the CEO do?” in order to get yourself organized daily, weekly and yearly. Just to give you a reminder of who Marianne is and what she does she has owned and operated a successful home staging business since 2005. She also spent 27 years in the real estate business and 17 of those years she was part of a top producing New England real estate team. Marianne has coached many home stagers all over the country on how to up-level their business by developing both mindset skills and strategy. She helps home stagers own their magnificent and create their life and a business that sets their souls on fire. Show Notes: What do home stagers, in particular, seem to struggle with? What is the inner and outer game? How is the outer game affected by the inner game? How does she decide how and what a client needs to do to prioritize? What does she suggest clients do to get more business? What is Marianne’s tele summit: your home staging business on fire going to be about? Who are some of the speakers that will be on the tele summit and what are some of the topics will they be discussing? How does it work to be a part of tele summit? Is it free to be a part of tele summit? Who should listen to the tele summit? Resources: www.windowworks-nj.com  www.coachingbymarianne.com http://tinyurl.com/stagingsummit-luann Fri, 06 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know I have Marianne Cherico back with me! If you remember episode 75 Marianne and I talked about her philosophy on asking “what would the CEO do?” in order to get yourself... Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know I have Marianne Cherico back with me! If you remember episode 75 Marianne and I talked about her philosophy on asking “what would the CEO do?” in order to get yourself organized daily, weekly and yearly. Just to give you a reminder of who Marianne is and what she does she has owned and operated a successful home staging business since 2005. She also spent 27 years in the real estate business and 17 of those years she was part of a top producing New England real estate team. Marianne has coached many home stagers all over the country on how to up-level their business by developing both mindset skills and strategy. She helps home stagers own their magnificent and create their life and a business that sets their souls on fire. Show Notes: What do home stagers, in particular, seem to struggle with? What is the inner and outer game? How is the outer game affected by the inner game? How does she decide how and what a client needs to do to prioritize? What does she suggest clients do to get more business? What is Marianne’s tele summit: your home staging business on fire going to be about? Who are some of the speakers that will be on the tele summit and what are some of the topics will they be discussing? How does it work to be a part of tele summit? Is it free to be a part of tele summit? Who should listen to the tele summit? Resources: www.windowworks-nj.com  www.coachingbymarianne.com http://tinyurl.com/stagingsummit-luann Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know I have Marianne Cherico back with me! If you remember episode 75 Marianne and I talked about her philosophy on asking “what would the CEO do?” in order to get yourself organized daily, weekly and yearly.

Just to give you a reminder of who Marianne is and what she does she has owned and operated a successful home staging business since 2005. She also spent 27 years in the real estate business and 17 of those years she was part of a top producing New England real estate team.

Marianne has coached many home stagers all over the country on how to up-level their business by developing both mindset skills and strategy. She helps home stagers own their magnificent and create their life and a business that sets their souls on fire.

Show Notes:

  • What do home stagers, in particular, seem to struggle with?
  • What is the inner and outer game?
  • How is the outer game affected by the inner game?
  • How does she decide how and what a client needs to do to prioritize?
  • What does she suggest clients do to get more business?
  • What is Marianne’s tele summit: your home staging business on fire going to be about?
  • Who are some of the speakers that will be on the tele summit and what are some of the topics will they be discussing?
  • How does it work to be a part of tele summit?
  • Is it free to be a part of tele summit?
  • Who should listen to the tele summit?

Resources:

www.windowworks-nj.com 

www.coachingbymarianne.com

http://tinyurl.com/stagingsummit-luann

]]> 2231 no 122: Barclay Butera- Mix Talent + Opportunity + Business Savvy = Epic Interior Design Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/122-barclay-butera-mix-talent-opportunity-business-savvy-epic-interior-design-business I am happy to tell you all that I have Barclay Butera on the show today! Barclay Butera is the creative force behind the Barclay Butera design firm and the showrooms located in New Port Beach, California, West Hollywood, California, Corona Del Moore, California and Park City Utah. Butera is renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal chic interiors. His passion for interior design began two decades ago! You will learn today how it has grown into an impressive lifestyle enterprise that in addition to his interior design business he also has licensing with some of the industries most respected partners including Kravet, Bradburn Gallery Home, Eastern Ascents, Highland House Furniture, Left Bank Art and several others. Not to mention he has five coffee table books. Show Notes: When did Barclay realize that he wanted to be in the interior design business? How old was Barclay when he started his first business? Was Barclay organized enough that his second location was as successful as his first? How many designers does he have working for him? How is the company set up? Is there a management program or does Barclay oversee everything? How does he handle things at corporate if he is not present at the corporate office? Who handles the licensing for his business: Barclay Butera Interior Design? What is it like to work with Kravet? What happens at the different showrooms? How many projects does Barclay Butera Interior Design company do a year? What kind of system does he have to work up the ranks? When does Barclay have time to write five coffee table books? Why did Barclay decide to write a book? What would be his advice be to someone who wanted to accomplish as much in business as he has? What would he say is something that he has seen that prevents a company from running well? Resources: www.kravet.com www.barclaybutera.com Wed, 04 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I am happy to tell you all that I have Barclay Butera on the show today! Barclay Butera is the creative force behind the Barclay Butera design firm and the showrooms located in New Port Beach, California, West Hollywood, California, Corona Del Moore,... I am happy to tell you all that I have Barclay Butera on the show today! Barclay Butera is the creative force behind the Barclay Butera design firm and the showrooms located in New Port Beach, California, West Hollywood, California, Corona Del Moore, California and Park City Utah. Butera is renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal chic interiors. His passion for interior design began two decades ago! You will learn today how it has grown into an impressive lifestyle enterprise that in addition to his interior design business he also has licensing with some of the industries most respected partners including Kravet, Bradburn Gallery Home, Eastern Ascents, Highland House Furniture, Left Bank Art and several others. Not to mention he has five coffee table books. Show Notes: When did Barclay realize that he wanted to be in the interior design business? How old was Barclay when he started his first business? Was Barclay organized enough that his second location was as successful as his first? How many designers does he have working for him? How is the company set up? Is there a management program or does Barclay oversee everything? How does he handle things at corporate if he is not present at the corporate office? Who handles the licensing for his business: Barclay Butera Interior Design? What is it like to work with Kravet? What happens at the different showrooms? How many projects does Barclay Butera Interior Design company do a year? What kind of system does he have to work up the ranks? When does Barclay have time to write five coffee table books? Why did Barclay decide to write a book? What would be his advice be to someone who wanted to accomplish as much in business as he has? What would he say is something that he has seen that prevents a company from running well? Resources: www.kravet.com www.barclaybutera.com I am happy to tell you all that I have Barclay Butera on the show today! Barclay Butera is the creative force behind the Barclay Butera design firm and the showrooms located in New Port Beach, California, West Hollywood, California, Corona Del Moore, California and Park City Utah. Butera is renowned for his approachable elegance and glamorous coastal chic interiors. His passion for interior design began two decades ago! You will learn today how it has grown into an impressive lifestyle enterprise that in addition to his interior design business he also has licensing with some of the industries most respected partners including Kravet, Bradburn Gallery Home, Eastern Ascents, Highland House Furniture, Left Bank Art and several others. Not to mention he has five coffee table books.

Show Notes:

  • When did Barclay realize that he wanted to be in the interior design business?
  • How old was Barclay when he started his first business?
  • Was Barclay organized enough that his second location was as successful as his first?
  • How many designers does he have working for him?
  • How is the company set up?
  • Is there a management program or does Barclay oversee everything?
  • How does he handle things at corporate if he is not present at the corporate office?
  • Who handles the licensing for his business: Barclay Butera Interior Design?
  • What is it like to work with Kravet?
  • What happens at the different showrooms?
  • How many projects does Barclay Butera Interior Design company do a year?
  • What kind of system does he have to work up the ranks?
  • When does Barclay have time to write five coffee table books?
  • Why did Barclay decide to write a book?
  • What would be his advice be to someone who wanted to accomplish as much in business as he has?
  • What would he say is something that he has seen that prevents a company from running well?

Resources:

www.kravet.com

www.barclaybutera.com

]]> 3576 no 121: Charrisse Johnston- The National Chair of ASID & Principal / Interior Design Practice Leader at Steinberg http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/121-charrisse-johnston-the-national-chair-of-asid-principal-interior-design-practice-leader-at-steinberg Today on the show I am happy to welcome Charrisse Johnston, chair of ASID National! She is also the principal and the firm-wide practice leader of Steinberg Architects. Steinberg Architects has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and Shanghai. Charrisse was previously the senior associate and studio operations leader at Gensler where she managed and designed K-12, higher education, and workplace projects. Before that, she was Vice President of corporate planning for Morgan Stanley Dean Witter where she oversaw the companies consolidated financial and strategic planning efforts. Today we talk about all kinds of things including her career path which also includes both behavioral psychology and a successful wedding planning business. We will also talk about how she was introduced to ASID as a student in California. Charrisse is smart, down to earth and an inspiring leader. Show Notes: Would Charrisse say that entrepreneurs have a better start out with a financial background? What is Charrisse’s niche in Steinberg Architects? How old is the Steinberg Architects business? How does design work for an “after the fact” work? Has Steinberg started a trend for architectural firms to start offering architectural design as well interior design? What is evidence-based design? Where can you find more information on evidence-based designs? Why did the position names change? How successful was Charrisse’s student chapter when she was president? How did she gain her position as chair of ASID national? What are some programs and benefits that ASID National has to offer for new designers and for seasoned designers? How is ASID National using health and wellness in design? How is ASID helping designers with designs for people who have to leave their home and move to an assisted living home? What new events are coming out in 2017 at ASID National? What are some government issues that ASID is trying to work on? Resources: www.steinbergarchitects.com  www.gensler.com  www.informedesign.org  www.asid.org Mon, 02 Jan 2017 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I am happy to welcome Charrisse Johnston, chair of ASID National! She is also the principal and the firm-wide practice leader of Steinberg Architects. Steinberg Architects has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and... Today on the show I am happy to welcome Charrisse Johnston, chair of ASID National! She is also the principal and the firm-wide practice leader of Steinberg Architects. Steinberg Architects has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and Shanghai. Charrisse was previously the senior associate and studio operations leader at Gensler where she managed and designed K-12, higher education, and workplace projects. Before that, she was Vice President of corporate planning for Morgan Stanley Dean Witter where she oversaw the companies consolidated financial and strategic planning efforts. Today we talk about all kinds of things including her career path which also includes both behavioral psychology and a successful wedding planning business. We will also talk about how she was introduced to ASID as a student in California. Charrisse is smart, down to earth and an inspiring leader. Show Notes: Would Charrisse say that entrepreneurs have a better start out with a financial background? What is Charrisse’s niche in Steinberg Architects? How old is the Steinberg Architects business? How does design work for an “after the fact” work? Has Steinberg started a trend for architectural firms to start offering architectural design as well interior design? What is evidence-based design? Where can you find more information on evidence-based designs? Why did the position names change? How successful was Charrisse’s student chapter when she was president? How did she gain her position as chair of ASID national? What are some programs and benefits that ASID National has to offer for new designers and for seasoned designers? How is ASID National using health and wellness in design? How is ASID helping designers with designs for people who have to leave their home and move to an assisted living home? What new events are coming out in 2017 at ASID National? What are some government issues that ASID is trying to work on? Resources: www.steinbergarchitects.com  www.gensler.com  www.informedesign.org  www.asid.org Today on the show I am happy to welcome Charrisse Johnston, chair of ASID National! She is also the principal and the firm-wide practice leader of Steinberg Architects. Steinberg Architects has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and Shanghai. Charrisse was previously the senior associate and studio operations leader at Gensler where she managed and designed K-12, higher education, and workplace projects. Before that, she was Vice President of corporate planning for Morgan Stanley Dean Witter where she oversaw the companies consolidated financial and strategic planning efforts. Today we talk about all kinds of things including her career path which also includes both behavioral psychology and a successful wedding planning business. We will also talk about how she was introduced to ASID as a student in California. Charrisse is smart, down to earth and an inspiring leader.

Show Notes:

  • Would Charrisse say that entrepreneurs have a better start out with a financial background?
  • What is Charrisse’s niche in Steinberg Architects?
  • How old is the Steinberg Architects business?
  • How does design work for an “after the fact” work?
  • Has Steinberg started a trend for architectural firms to start offering architectural design as well interior design?
  • What is evidence-based design?
  • Where can you find more information on evidence-based designs?
  • Why did the position names change?
  • How successful was Charrisse’s student chapter when she was president?
  • How did she gain her position as chair of ASID national?
  • What are some programs and benefits that ASID National has to offer for new designers and for seasoned designers?
  • How is ASID National using health and wellness in design?
  • How is ASID helping designers with designs for people who have to leave their home and move to an assisted living home?
  • What new events are coming out in 2017 at ASID National?
  • What are some government issues that ASID is trying to work on?

Resources:

www.steinbergarchitects.com 

www.gensler.com 

www.informedesign.org 

www.asid.org

]]> 4240 no 120: Christmas Encore: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/120-christmas-encore-a-special-visit-with-the-sr-director-of-merchandising-for-curatedkravetcom Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com! Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms. Show Notes: How long has Will Hunt been with Kravet? What were the vision/goals for curatedkravet.com? What are some of the best features of curatedkravet.com? What kind of products are on the website? How are the products sourced? What does he love best about the website? How is customer service handled? How are designers found for the website? What is a “magalog”? Resources: www.curatedkravet.com Code for 10% off: ckpodcast www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   Fri, 30 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous  platform.  is celebrating a few milestones of its own.... Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com! Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms. Show Notes: How long has Will Hunt been with Kravet? What were the vision/goals for curatedkravet.com? What are some of the best features of curatedkravet.com? What kind of products are on the website? How are the products sourced? What does he love best about the website? How is customer service handled? How are designers found for the website? What is a “magalog”? Resources: www.curatedkravet.com Code for 10% off: ckpodcast www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com!

Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms.

Show Notes:

  • How long has Will Hunt been with Kravet?
  • What were the vision/goals for curatedkravet.com?
  • What are some of the best features of curatedkravet.com?
  • What kind of products are on the website?
  • How are the products sourced?
  • What does he love best about the website?
  • How is customer service handled?
  • How are designers found for the website?
  • What is a “magalog”?

Resources: www.curatedkravet.com Code for 10% off: ckpodcast www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

 

]]> 3752 no 119: Christmas Encore: Sarah Daniele - Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/119-christmas-encore-sarah-daniele-co-founder-ceo-of-mydoma-studio On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career. Show Notes: When did Sarah start her new software? What were her guidelines for her new software system? Was her software originally for other designers? When did she decide to let other designers use her program? What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers? How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself? How did she build her beta team to test the new product? Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software? Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from? How did she decide the “look” of her website? What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio? What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients? What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio? What is a product catalog builder? What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global? How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio? Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished? How are the invoices incorporated in the program? Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client? What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio? How are the fees decided? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  Wed, 28 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and... On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career. Show Notes: When did Sarah start her new software? What were her guidelines for her new software system? Was her software originally for other designers? When did she decide to let other designers use her program? What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers? How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself? How did she build her beta team to test the new product? Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software? Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from? How did she decide the “look” of her website? What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio? What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients? What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio? What is a product catalog builder? What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global? How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio? Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished? How are the invoices incorporated in the program? Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client? What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio? How are the fees decided? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career.

Show Notes:

  • When did Sarah start her new software?
  • What were her guidelines for her new software system?
  • Was her software originally for other designers?
  • When did she decide to let other designers use her program?
  • What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers?
  • How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself?
  • How did she build her beta team to test the new product?
  • Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software?
  • Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from?
  • How did she decide the “look” of her website?
  • What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio?
  • What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients?
  • What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio?
  • What is a product catalog builder?
  • What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global?
  • How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio?
  • Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished?
  • How are the invoices incorporated in the program?
  • Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client?
  • What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio?
  • How are the fees decided?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 4505 no 118: Christmas Encore: Anna Brockway- Co-Founder & President of Chairish http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/118-christmas-encore-anna-brockway-co-founder-president-of-chairish Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site Show Notes: What is Chairish? Why did she start the business? What is the Chairish pink book? Is it a business or a feature? Research the market! What kind of special features does the Chairish site have? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works   Mon, 26 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it... Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site Show Notes: What is Chairish? Why did she start the business? What is the Chairish pink book? Is it a business or a feature? Research the market! What kind of special features does the Chairish site have? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works   Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site

Show Notes:

  • What is Chairish?
  • Why did she start the business?
  • What is the Chairish pink book?
  • Is it a business or a feature?
  • Research the market!
  • What kind of special features does the Chairish site have?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works

 

]]> 3735 no 117: Power Talk Friday: Deborah Rosenberg- Cruelty Free Design Certification is Here! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/117-power-talk-friday-deborah-rosenberg-cruelty-free-design-certification-is-here Deborah Rosenberg is here with us today on Power Talk Friday. If you remember Deborah was first on the show on episode 82. Deborah is the founder of an ultra-luxury design firm, Dimare Design and www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net. She is a leader in cruelty-free and wellness healthy design. During episode 82 she talks about her passion for animal’s rights and how she has skewed her interior design firm to stand firmly behind this passion of hers to be cruelty-free. Deborah believes that luxury design should look good, feel good and do good.  Deborah has also been on TLC as a featured designer; she has appeared on the Today Show; she writes articles and lectures on humane and wellness design. If you haven’t listened to episode 82 you need to go back and listen to it because you will get full details of how she runs her business and her great business principles. She mentioned in that episode that she was working on a certification program for interior designers, if you have a passion to bring this to your business as well. The course is launching! You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/deborah-rosenburg Fri, 23 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Deborah Rosenberg is here with us today on Power Talk Friday. If you remember Deborah was first on the show on episode 82. Deborah is the founder of an ultra-luxury design firm, Dimare Design and . She is a leader in cruelty-free... Deborah Rosenberg is here with us today on Power Talk Friday. If you remember Deborah was first on the show on episode 82. Deborah is the founder of an ultra-luxury design firm, Dimare Design and www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net. She is a leader in cruelty-free and wellness healthy design. During episode 82 she talks about her passion for animal’s rights and how she has skewed her interior design firm to stand firmly behind this passion of hers to be cruelty-free. Deborah believes that luxury design should look good, feel good and do good.  Deborah has also been on TLC as a featured designer; she has appeared on the Today Show; she writes articles and lectures on humane and wellness design. If you haven’t listened to episode 82 you need to go back and listen to it because you will get full details of how she runs her business and her great business principles. She mentioned in that episode that she was working on a certification program for interior designers, if you have a passion to bring this to your business as well. The course is launching! You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/deborah-rosenburg Deborah Rosenberg is here with us today on Power Talk Friday. If you remember Deborah was first on the show on episode 82. Deborah is the founder of an ultra-luxury design firm, Dimare Design and www.certifiedcrueltyfree.net. She is a leader in cruelty-free and wellness healthy design. During episode 82 she talks about her passion for animal’s rights and how she has skewed her interior design firm to stand firmly behind this passion of hers to be cruelty-free. Deborah believes that luxury design should look good, feel good and do good. 

Deborah has also been on TLC as a featured designer; she has appeared on the Today Show; she writes articles and lectures on humane and wellness design. If you haven’t listened to episode 82 you need to go back and listen to it because you will get full details of how she runs her business and her great business principles. She mentioned in that episode that she was working on a certification program for interior designers, if you have a passion to bring this to your business as well. The course is launching!

You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/deborah-rosenburg

]]> 2240 no 116: Amanda Gates: “Homes That Feel Good as They Look” & Top 25 Interior Design Bloggers in the World! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/116-amanda-gates-homes-that-feel-good-as-they-look-top-25-interior-design-bloggers-in-the-world On the show, today we are lucky to have Amanda Gates with us! Amanda is the principal of Gates Interior Design, a Feng Shui practitioner, a podcaster, an award-winning blogger and very soon a published author. She has been seamlessly marrying interior design and Feng shui for over 17 years to help her high-end clients awaken their souls and rejuvenate their spirit all through the art of intentional design. She is best known for her classic design with a modern twist and was selected by Nashville Home and Garden Magazine as one of the top designers to watch. Her designs and educational blog which was named top 25 interior design blogs in the world! Amanda is quite accomplished and is very generous to share her advice. Show Notes: How does she incorporate her design with the phrase “good design enhances your lifestyle but intentional design enhances your quality of life?” What does intentional design mean? What is BTB? How long has Amanda been studying Feng Shui? How does she divide Feng shui and interior design in her business or does she? How does Amanda figure out if she has found “her people”? Hoes she figure out if a person is not a client for her? How did her blog get started? How many elements are in Feng shui? When is her book, Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui” coming out? What is her book about? How can you get your blog known? What are some tips to starting a blog? How can a podcast appeal to potential clients? Why is it important to work with a coach? Why is it important to join a mastermind? Why is it important to look for a coach outside of your business industry and shop around? Be cautious of the advice you take when starting out! How do you figure out who you should work with? Resources: “Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui”   Her website: https://gatesinteriordesign.com   Her Blog- Rated Top 25 in the World for Interior Design: https://gatesinteriordesign.com/blog/   Her Podcast: Design 101 https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/design-101-designing-your/id505550006?mt=2   Wed, 21 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show, today we are lucky to have Amanda Gates with us! Amanda is the principal of Gates Interior Design, a Feng Shui practitioner, a podcaster, an award-winning blogger and very soon a published author. She has been seamlessly marrying interior... On the show, today we are lucky to have Amanda Gates with us! Amanda is the principal of Gates Interior Design, a Feng Shui practitioner, a podcaster, an award-winning blogger and very soon a published author. She has been seamlessly marrying interior design and Feng shui for over 17 years to help her high-end clients awaken their souls and rejuvenate their spirit all through the art of intentional design. She is best known for her classic design with a modern twist and was selected by Nashville Home and Garden Magazine as one of the top designers to watch. Her designs and educational blog which was named top 25 interior design blogs in the world! Amanda is quite accomplished and is very generous to share her advice. Show Notes: How does she incorporate her design with the phrase “good design enhances your lifestyle but intentional design enhances your quality of life?” What does intentional design mean? What is BTB? How long has Amanda been studying Feng Shui? How does she divide Feng shui and interior design in her business or does she? How does Amanda figure out if she has found “her people”? Hoes she figure out if a person is not a client for her? How did her blog get started? How many elements are in Feng shui? When is her book, Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui” coming out? What is her book about? How can you get your blog known? What are some tips to starting a blog? How can a podcast appeal to potential clients? Why is it important to work with a coach? Why is it important to join a mastermind? Why is it important to look for a coach outside of your business industry and shop around? Be cautious of the advice you take when starting out! How do you figure out who you should work with? Resources: “Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui”   Her website: https://gatesinteriordesign.com   Her Blog- Rated Top 25 in the World for Interior Design: https://gatesinteriordesign.com/blog/   Her Podcast: Design 101 https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/design-101-designing-your/id505550006?mt=2   On the show, today we are lucky to have Amanda Gates with us! Amanda is the principal of Gates Interior Design, a Feng Shui practitioner, a podcaster, an award-winning blogger and very soon a published author. She has been seamlessly marrying interior design and Feng shui for over 17 years to help her high-end clients awaken their souls and rejuvenate their spirit all through the art of intentional design. She is best known for her classic design with a modern twist and was selected by Nashville Home and Garden Magazine as one of the top designers to watch. Her designs and educational blog which was named top 25 interior design blogs in the world! Amanda is quite accomplished and is very generous to share her advice.

Show Notes:

  • How does she incorporate her design with the phrase “good design enhances your lifestyle but intentional design enhances your quality of life?”
  • What does intentional design mean?
  • What is BTB?
  • How long has Amanda been studying Feng Shui?
  • How does she divide Feng shui and interior design in her business or does she?
  • How does Amanda figure out if she has found “her people”?
  • Hoes she figure out if a person is not a client for her?
  • How did her blog get started?
  • How many elements are in Feng shui?
  • When is her book, Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui” coming out?
  • What is her book about?
  • How can you get your blog known?
  • What are some tips to starting a blog?
  • How can a podcast appeal to potential clients?
  • Why is it important to work with a coach?
  • Why is it important to join a mastermind?
  • Why is it important to look for a coach outside of your business industry and shop around?
  • Be cautious of the advice you take when starting out!
  • How do you figure out who you should work with?

Resources:

“Detoxing Clutter with Feng Shui”

 

Her website: https://gatesinteriordesign.com   Her Blog- Rated Top 25 in the World for Interior Design: https://gatesinteriordesign.com/blog/   Her Podcast: Design 101 https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/design-101-designing-your/id505550006?mt=2

 

]]> 5356 no 115: Julianne Taylor: Author of DesignHer- Inspiring Entrepreneurs Shaping Today’s Home Decor Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/115-taylor-burke-author-of-designher-inspiring-entrepreneurs-shaping-todays-home-decor-industry Julianne Taylor is the founder and creative director of Taylor Burke Home: a luxury home décor brand offering bold, unexpected and sophisticated in furniture and lighting. Since launching Taylor Burke Home in 2012 Julianne has quickly emerged one of the home décor’s most prominent female entrepreneurs. She is also known in the industry as a trend setter and taste maker. She has a BFA in interior design from the University of Georgia and a Masters in Human Resources from the University of South Carolina.  Show Notes: What famous show did Julianne appear on? How did Taylor Burke Home come into thoughts? What were the biggest factors getting Taylor Burke Home going? How did she do a proof of concept to make sure her business was going to be successful? How much money do you need to start your business? What is “SCORE” and how can it help when starting a business? Be careful of the dream killers! What made Atlanta the place to debut? What sort of products does Julianne have at Taylor Burke Home? How many female entrepreneurs did Julianne interview for her book, DesignHER? What was the experience like interviewing these ladies for her book? Are there certain things that Julianne would say female entrepreneurs would go through when running a business? What nickname did she get working in her business? What advice would she give to other female entrepreneurs starting out or planning to start a business? Resources: www.score.org  www.taylorburkehome.com  “DesignHER” info@taylorburkehome.com  1-800-860-5821 www.amazon.com Mon, 19 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Julianne Taylor is the founder and creative director of Taylor Burke Home: a luxury home décor brand offering bold, unexpected and sophisticated in furniture and lighting. Since launching Taylor Burke Home in 2012 Julianne has quickly emerged one of... Julianne Taylor is the founder and creative director of Taylor Burke Home: a luxury home décor brand offering bold, unexpected and sophisticated in furniture and lighting. Since launching Taylor Burke Home in 2012 Julianne has quickly emerged one of the home décor’s most prominent female entrepreneurs. She is also known in the industry as a trend setter and taste maker. She has a BFA in interior design from the University of Georgia and a Masters in Human Resources from the University of South Carolina.  Show Notes: What famous show did Julianne appear on? How did Taylor Burke Home come into thoughts? What were the biggest factors getting Taylor Burke Home going? How did she do a proof of concept to make sure her business was going to be successful? How much money do you need to start your business? What is “SCORE” and how can it help when starting a business? Be careful of the dream killers! What made Atlanta the place to debut? What sort of products does Julianne have at Taylor Burke Home? How many female entrepreneurs did Julianne interview for her book, DesignHER? What was the experience like interviewing these ladies for her book? Are there certain things that Julianne would say female entrepreneurs would go through when running a business? What nickname did she get working in her business? What advice would she give to other female entrepreneurs starting out or planning to start a business? Resources: www.score.org  www.taylorburkehome.com  “DesignHER” info@taylorburkehome.com  1-800-860-5821 www.amazon.com Julianne Taylor is the founder and creative director of Taylor Burke Home: a luxury home décor brand offering bold, unexpected and sophisticated in furniture and lighting. Since launching Taylor Burke Home in 2012 Julianne has quickly emerged one of the home décor’s most prominent female entrepreneurs. She is also known in the industry as a trend setter and taste maker. She has a BFA in interior design from the University of Georgia and a Masters in Human Resources from the University of South Carolina. 

Show Notes:

  • What famous show did Julianne appear on?
  • How did Taylor Burke Home come into thoughts?
  • What were the biggest factors getting Taylor Burke Home going?
  • How did she do a proof of concept to make sure her business was going to be successful?
  • How much money do you need to start your business?
  • What is “SCORE” and how can it help when starting a business?
  • Be careful of the dream killers!
  • What made Atlanta the place to debut?
  • What sort of products does Julianne have at Taylor Burke Home?
  • How many female entrepreneurs did Julianne interview for her book, DesignHER?
  • What was the experience like interviewing these ladies for her book?
  • Are there certain things that Julianne would say female entrepreneurs would go through when running a business?
  • What nickname did she get working in her business?
  • What advice would she give to other female entrepreneurs starting out or planning to start a business?

Resources:

www.score.org 

www.taylorburkehome.com 

“DesignHER”

info@taylorburkehome.com 

1-800-860-5821

www.amazon.com

]]> 3263 no 114: Power Talk Friday- Kae Whitaker- How to Make the Most of Your Year End Business Review http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/114-power-talk-friday-kae-whitaker-how-to-make-the-most-of-your-year-end-business-review I’m so glad you tuned into power talk Friday! We have Kae Whitaker with us again! This is Kae’s third time on the show. If you have missed her first two shows you need to know she is a Houston-based branding and business developing strategist. Her company caters to personal coaches, personal brands, interior designers and event industry professionals. Kae’s personal coaching focuses on the whole brand. She understands very clearly that in order for you to be successful that all the pieces within your brand company have to line up. With over ten years of sales and marketing development she understands the way consumers think, what makes them want to buy your product or service. She has dedicated herself to helping creative businesses become more profitable and more productive. We are going to do an end of year planning. This is going to be a two-parter. Kae is going to talk to us about looking back on our year and what we need to evaluate to make good decisions moving forward. Krista Coupar is going to be talking to us on the following show. She is going to talk us about planning for the new year. Show Notes: What is one of the first things to look at when looking back on the year? What are some things that will get in the way of accomplishing goals for the year? What are some other markers to look at at the end of the year? Who should you be looking at when evaluating for the year besides internally in your business? What social platform is best for your business? Take good notes! How can you evaluate the “processes” that were used throughout the year? Are there any tools that may be more helpful than the ones you are using? What could be the reason you are unhappy with your job and how can you fix this? Resources: www.kaewhitaker.com www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker www.Instagram.com/kaewhitaker www.parascope.com/kaewhitaker Fri, 16 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I’m so glad you tuned into power talk Friday! We have Kae Whitaker with us again! This is Kae’s third time on the show. If you have missed her first two shows you need to know she is a Houston-based branding and business developing strategist. Her... I’m so glad you tuned into power talk Friday! We have Kae Whitaker with us again! This is Kae’s third time on the show. If you have missed her first two shows you need to know she is a Houston-based branding and business developing strategist. Her company caters to personal coaches, personal brands, interior designers and event industry professionals. Kae’s personal coaching focuses on the whole brand. She understands very clearly that in order for you to be successful that all the pieces within your brand company have to line up. With over ten years of sales and marketing development she understands the way consumers think, what makes them want to buy your product or service. She has dedicated herself to helping creative businesses become more profitable and more productive. We are going to do an end of year planning. This is going to be a two-parter. Kae is going to talk to us about looking back on our year and what we need to evaluate to make good decisions moving forward. Krista Coupar is going to be talking to us on the following show. She is going to talk us about planning for the new year. Show Notes: What is one of the first things to look at when looking back on the year? What are some things that will get in the way of accomplishing goals for the year? What are some other markers to look at at the end of the year? Who should you be looking at when evaluating for the year besides internally in your business? What social platform is best for your business? Take good notes! How can you evaluate the “processes” that were used throughout the year? Are there any tools that may be more helpful than the ones you are using? What could be the reason you are unhappy with your job and how can you fix this? Resources: www.kaewhitaker.com www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker www.Instagram.com/kaewhitaker www.parascope.com/kaewhitaker I’m so glad you tuned into power talk Friday! We have Kae Whitaker with us again! This is Kae’s third time on the show. If you have missed her first two shows you need to know she is a Houston-based branding and business developing strategist. Her company caters to personal coaches, personal brands, interior designers and event industry professionals. Kae’s personal coaching focuses on the whole brand. She understands very clearly that in order for you to be successful that all the pieces within your brand company have to line up. With over ten years of sales and marketing development she understands the way consumers think, what makes them want to buy your product or service. She has dedicated herself to helping creative businesses become more profitable and more productive. We are going to do an end of year planning. This is going to be a two-parter. Kae is going to talk to us about looking back on our year and what we need to evaluate to make good decisions moving forward. Krista Coupar is going to be talking to us on the following show. She is going to talk us about planning for the new year.

Show Notes:

  • What is one of the first things to look at when looking back on the year?
  • What are some things that will get in the way of accomplishing goals for the year?
  • What are some other markers to look at at the end of the year?
  • Who should you be looking at when evaluating for the year besides internally in your business?
  • What social platform is best for your business?
  • Take good notes!
  • How can you evaluate the “processes” that were used throughout the year?
  • Are there any tools that may be more helpful than the ones you are using?
  • What could be the reason you are unhappy with your job and how can you fix this?

Resources:

www.kaewhitaker.com

www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker

www.Instagram.com/kaewhitaker

www.parascope.com/kaewhitaker

]]> 2783 no 113: Boutique Design New York- Robert Allen, Kravet Inc, JF Fabrics and Pavarini Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/113-boutique-design-new-york-robert-allen-kravet-inc-jf-fabrics-and-pavarini-design Today’s show was a departure for me. It was recorded live at the Javits Center at the boutique design show in New York. If you are unfamiliar with BDNY let me give you some background. Boutique design New York is the leading trade fair and conference for hospitality design industry. Fall of 2016 marked the seventh year in a row that designers, architects, and other industry professionals gathered together for the two-day event November 13th and 14th. If you are currently designing for hospitality, contract or commercial or you aspire to work in the industry this is the show to attend. There are rows and rows of booths full of samples and sales representatives waiting to tell you about their latest products and services.  The first interview is with Irina Peer. Irena is the director of design and merchandise for the Robert Allen Group. Robert Allen was showcasing two of its latest collections: Looks Natural and Performance Upholstery. They also gave an exclusive sneak peek at 701 Velvet, their new line they launched the next day.  The second interview we are going to meet Robert Duban and Karen Keating from Kravet! In this interview, you will learn about the options you have in hospitality and health care industries. Did you know that Kravet is the only company to have guaranteed in stock crypton fabrics? I'll let Robert and Karen tell you what else is new at Kravet. My next chat is with the vice president of JF Fabrics, Tony located in Toronto. They are going to talk about their new line and their crypton collection and how it has value for residential and commercial applications. Do you remember episode 16 of the podcast with Charles Pavarini III of Pavarini Design Associates? If you do, you will remember that Charles and Randall were busy designing a new line of lawn furniture.   Show Notes: What is special about the Robert Allen performance book? What some features that a person in hospitality would not like to miss from the Robert Allen Group? What kind of research did Irina do for these collections? What are some qualities that the 701 Velvet collection have? What are some of the new introductions to the collections from Kravet? What does every product/collection at Kravet have? How many people are working to get these designs going for Kravet? What would Robert and Karen want everyone to know that could not come to their booth at BDNY? Where do they get their inspiration? What is going on in the contract line for JF Fabrics? What is the great thing in the fabric in the crypton home collection at JF Fabric? What sort of products do Charles and Randall use for their new lawn furniture collection? How was the journey getting the final product for their lawn furniture? Where are, their products made? Can you buy just one piece or do you have to buy in bulk? Are Charles and Randall the only lawn furniture company of their kind? Resources: www.pavarinidesign.com  www.olfoutdoor.com  www.robertallendesign.com  www.kravet.com  www.jffabrics.com    Wed, 14 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s show was a departure for me. It was recorded live at the Javits Center at the boutique design show in New York. If you are unfamiliar with BDNY let me give you some background. Boutique design New York is the leading trade fair and... Today’s show was a departure for me. It was recorded live at the Javits Center at the boutique design show in New York. If you are unfamiliar with BDNY let me give you some background. Boutique design New York is the leading trade fair and conference for hospitality design industry. Fall of 2016 marked the seventh year in a row that designers, architects, and other industry professionals gathered together for the two-day event November 13th and 14th. If you are currently designing for hospitality, contract or commercial or you aspire to work in the industry this is the show to attend. There are rows and rows of booths full of samples and sales representatives waiting to tell you about their latest products and services.  The first interview is with Irina Peer. Irena is the director of design and merchandise for the Robert Allen Group. Robert Allen was showcasing two of its latest collections: Looks Natural and Performance Upholstery. They also gave an exclusive sneak peek at 701 Velvet, their new line they launched the next day.  The second interview we are going to meet Robert Duban and Karen Keating from Kravet! In this interview, you will learn about the options you have in hospitality and health care industries. Did you know that Kravet is the only company to have guaranteed in stock crypton fabrics? I'll let Robert and Karen tell you what else is new at Kravet. My next chat is with the vice president of JF Fabrics, Tony located in Toronto. They are going to talk about their new line and their crypton collection and how it has value for residential and commercial applications. Do you remember episode 16 of the podcast with Charles Pavarini III of Pavarini Design Associates? If you do, you will remember that Charles and Randall were busy designing a new line of lawn furniture.   Show Notes: What is special about the Robert Allen performance book? What some features that a person in hospitality would not like to miss from the Robert Allen Group? What kind of research did Irina do for these collections? What are some qualities that the 701 Velvet collection have? What are some of the new introductions to the collections from Kravet? What does every product/collection at Kravet have? How many people are working to get these designs going for Kravet? What would Robert and Karen want everyone to know that could not come to their booth at BDNY? Where do they get their inspiration? What is going on in the contract line for JF Fabrics? What is the great thing in the fabric in the crypton home collection at JF Fabric? What sort of products do Charles and Randall use for their new lawn furniture collection? How was the journey getting the final product for their lawn furniture? Where are, their products made? Can you buy just one piece or do you have to buy in bulk? Are Charles and Randall the only lawn furniture company of their kind? Resources: www.pavarinidesign.com  www.olfoutdoor.com  www.robertallendesign.com  www.kravet.com  www.jffabrics.com    Today’s show was a departure for me. It was recorded live at the Javits Center at the boutique design show in New York. If you are unfamiliar with BDNY let me give you some background. Boutique design New York is the leading trade fair and conference for hospitality design industry. Fall of 2016 marked the seventh year in a row that designers, architects, and other industry professionals gathered together for the two-day event November 13th and 14th. If you are currently designing for hospitality, contract or commercial or you aspire to work in the industry this is the show to attend. There are rows and rows of booths full of samples and sales representatives waiting to tell you about their latest products and services. 

The first interview is with Irina Peer. Irena is the director of design and merchandise for the Robert Allen Group. Robert Allen was showcasing two of its latest collections: Looks Natural and Performance Upholstery. They also gave an exclusive sneak peek at 701 Velvet, their new line they launched the next day. 

The second interview we are going to meet Robert Duban and Karen Keating from Kravet! In this interview, you will learn about the options you have in hospitality and health care industries. Did you know that Kravet is the only company to have guaranteed in stock crypton fabrics? I'll let Robert and Karen tell you what else is new at Kravet.

My next chat is with the vice president of JF Fabrics, Tony located in Toronto. They are going to talk about their new line and their crypton collection and how it has value for residential and commercial applications.

Do you remember episode 16 of the podcast with Charles Pavarini III of Pavarini Design Associates? If you do, you will remember that Charles and Randall were busy designing a new line of lawn furniture.  

Show Notes:

  • What is special about the Robert Allen performance book?
  • What some features that a person in hospitality would not like to miss from the Robert Allen Group?
  • What kind of research did Irina do for these collections?
  • What are some qualities that the 701 Velvet collection have?
  • What are some of the new introductions to the collections from Kravet?
  • What does every product/collection at Kravet have?
  • How many people are working to get these designs going for Kravet?
  • What would Robert and Karen want everyone to know that could not come to their booth at BDNY?
  • Where do they get their inspiration?
  • What is going on in the contract line for JF Fabrics?
  • What is the great thing in the fabric in the crypton home collection at JF Fabric?
  • What sort of products do Charles and Randall use for their new lawn furniture collection?
  • How was the journey getting the final product for their lawn furniture?
  • Where are, their products made?
  • Can you buy just one piece or do you have to buy in bulk?
  • Are Charles and Randall the only lawn furniture company of their kind?

Resources:

www.pavarinidesign.com 

www.olfoutdoor.com 

www.robertallendesign.com 

www.kravet.com 

www.jffabrics.com 

 

]]> 3090 no 112: Kimberley Seldon: We All Know Clients Matter, at Business of Design, Designers Matter Too. http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/112-kimberley-seldon-we-all-know-clients-matter-at-business-of-design-designers-matter-too I am so grateful to have Kimberley Seldon on the show today. She has been requested by more than one guest that has been on the show. Kimberley is not only going to further beautiful luxury design, but also help by teaching interior designers how to emulate you and have a fabulous business. Kimberley is a brilliant and talented woman of many trades. She is an interior designer, editor, keynote speaker, broadcast personality and runs her online platform “Business of Design” where she teaches professional development to designers, decorators, stagers and stylists!  Show Notes: When did Kimberley have her “come to Jesus” moment in her career? What caused her to have a “come to Jesus” moment? Is it possible that interior designers make mistakes? Should you bill the client if a mistake happens outside the company? What were some of the challenges working with her own business coach and transitioning with her coach? How did she make her paperwork not suck? Why is it important to have good paperwork? How do you present yourself when you are a brand new interior designer? What are some things you should not do when first starting out? “The wrong client will never turn into the right client.” Should you charge for your consultation? How much should you charge for your consultations? What is Business of Design and what does it offer? Is there a book coming in the near future? If there is a book what would it be about? What does her business look like on the inside? How many courses does Kimberley offer? What is the difference between the free membership and paid membership for her courses? Resources:  www.businessofdesign.com/awdbpodcast  www.businessofdesign.com  www.kimberleyseldon.com    Mon, 12 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I am so grateful to have Kimberley Seldon on the show today. She has been requested by more than one guest that has been on the show. Kimberley is not only going to further beautiful luxury design, but also help by teaching interior designers how to... I am so grateful to have Kimberley Seldon on the show today. She has been requested by more than one guest that has been on the show. Kimberley is not only going to further beautiful luxury design, but also help by teaching interior designers how to emulate you and have a fabulous business. Kimberley is a brilliant and talented woman of many trades. She is an interior designer, editor, keynote speaker, broadcast personality and runs her online platform “Business of Design” where she teaches professional development to designers, decorators, stagers and stylists!  Show Notes: When did Kimberley have her “come to Jesus” moment in her career? What caused her to have a “come to Jesus” moment? Is it possible that interior designers make mistakes? Should you bill the client if a mistake happens outside the company? What were some of the challenges working with her own business coach and transitioning with her coach? How did she make her paperwork not suck? Why is it important to have good paperwork? How do you present yourself when you are a brand new interior designer? What are some things you should not do when first starting out? “The wrong client will never turn into the right client.” Should you charge for your consultation? How much should you charge for your consultations? What is Business of Design and what does it offer? Is there a book coming in the near future? If there is a book what would it be about? What does her business look like on the inside? How many courses does Kimberley offer? What is the difference between the free membership and paid membership for her courses? Resources:  www.businessofdesign.com/awdbpodcast  www.businessofdesign.com  www.kimberleyseldon.com    I am so grateful to have Kimberley Seldon on the show today. She has been requested by more than one guest that has been on the show. Kimberley is not only going to further beautiful luxury design, but also help by teaching interior designers how to emulate you and have a fabulous business. Kimberley is a brilliant and talented woman of many trades. She is an interior designer, editor, keynote speaker, broadcast personality and runs her online platform “Business of Design” where she teaches professional development to designers, decorators, stagers and stylists! 

Show Notes:

  • When did Kimberley have her “come to Jesus” moment in her career?
  • What caused her to have a “come to Jesus” moment?
  • Is it possible that interior designers make mistakes?
  • Should you bill the client if a mistake happens outside the company?
  • What were some of the challenges working with her own business coach and transitioning with her coach?
  • How did she make her paperwork not suck?
  • Why is it important to have good paperwork?
  • How do you present yourself when you are a brand new interior designer?
  • What are some things you should not do when first starting out?
  • “The wrong client will never turn into the right client.”
  • Should you charge for your consultation?
  • How much should you charge for your consultations?
  • What is Business of Design and what does it offer?
  • Is there a book coming in the near future?
  • If there is a book what would it be about?
  • What does her business look like on the inside?
  • How many courses does Kimberley offer?
  • What is the difference between the free membership and paid membership for her courses?

Resources:

 www.businessofdesign.com/awdbpodcast 

www.businessofdesign.com 

www.kimberleyseldon.com 

 

]]> 4381 no 111: Power Talk Friday- Tom Corley- Rich Habits: The Key to Success and a Happy Future http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/111-power-talk-friday-tom-corley-rich-habits-the-key-to-success-and-a-happy-future Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I am delighted to have Thomas Corley with me today. Tom is first and foremost fellow New Jersey folk. Tom is a CPA, financial planner and an author. It’s his books and research he has done for these books and speaking engagements on this topic that drew me to him and his platform. He has written three books so far: Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals, Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life, Change your Habits, Change your life. I love topics that teach us something about taking ownership of ourselves as people, as business people, as parents, employees etc. and pushes us to better ourselves. Today Tom is going to talk to us about what he has found while doing his research and how to help yourself help yourself.  Show Notes:  Did Tom grow up wealthy? What does his research contain and how does he go about doing his research? What are rich and poor habits? What did he learn while doing his research? What is the comparison between wealthy people and exercise? What are the differences between a goal and a dream? What are more rich habits that wealthy people participate in? What are the habits that wealthy people don’t participate in? There are how many types of luck? How do rich and poor people accumulate their luck? How is the type of luck determined? Why are technical people important and how can they help your business? How many kinds of habits are there and what are they? What is a keystone habit? How can you open your mind to positivity? Resources: Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life Change your Habits, Change your life www.richhabits.net    Fri, 09 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I am delighted to have Thomas Corley with me today. Tom is first and foremost fellow New Jersey folk. Tom is a CPA, financial planner and an author. It’s his books and research he has done for these books and speaking... Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I am delighted to have Thomas Corley with me today. Tom is first and foremost fellow New Jersey folk. Tom is a CPA, financial planner and an author. It’s his books and research he has done for these books and speaking engagements on this topic that drew me to him and his platform. He has written three books so far: Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals, Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life, Change your Habits, Change your life. I love topics that teach us something about taking ownership of ourselves as people, as business people, as parents, employees etc. and pushes us to better ourselves. Today Tom is going to talk to us about what he has found while doing his research and how to help yourself help yourself.  Show Notes:  Did Tom grow up wealthy? What does his research contain and how does he go about doing his research? What are rich and poor habits? What did he learn while doing his research? What is the comparison between wealthy people and exercise? What are the differences between a goal and a dream? What are more rich habits that wealthy people participate in? What are the habits that wealthy people don’t participate in? There are how many types of luck? How do rich and poor people accumulate their luck? How is the type of luck determined? Why are technical people important and how can they help your business? How many kinds of habits are there and what are they? What is a keystone habit? How can you open your mind to positivity? Resources: Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life Change your Habits, Change your life www.richhabits.net    Welcome to Power Talk Friday! I am delighted to have Thomas Corley with me today. Tom is first and foremost fellow New Jersey folk. Tom is a CPA, financial planner and an author. It’s his books and research he has done for these books and speaking engagements on this topic that drew me to him and his platform. He has written three books so far: Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals, Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life, Change your Habits, Change your life. I love topics that teach us something about taking ownership of ourselves as people, as business people, as parents, employees etc. and pushes us to better ourselves. Today Tom is going to talk to us about what he has found while doing his research and how to help yourself help yourself. 

Show Notes: 

  • Did Tom grow up wealthy?
  • What does his research contain and how does he go about doing his research?
  • What are rich and poor habits?
  • What did he learn while doing his research?
  • What is the comparison between wealthy people and exercise?
  • What are the differences between a goal and a dream?
  • What are more rich habits that wealthy people participate in?
  • What are the habits that wealthy people don’t participate in?
  • There are how many types of luck?
  • How do rich and poor people accumulate their luck?
  • How is the type of luck determined?
  • Why are technical people important and how can they help your business?
  • How many kinds of habits are there and what are they?
  • What is a keystone habit?
  • How can you open your mind to positivity?

Resources:

Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals

Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to be Happy and Successful in Life

Change your Habits, Change your life

www.richhabits.net 

 

]]> 4504 no 110: Mark McDonough- Founder & Editor of Tastefully Inspired Blog http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/110-mark-mcdonough-founder-editor-of-tastefully-inspired-blog Welcome back to another episode of A Well Design Business! Today on the show I’m going to talk with Mark McDonough, the founder and editor of “Tastefully Inspired” blog and the curator of the Instagram feed for “Tastefully Inspired”. Mark’s skills and experience blend a very deep understanding of how the internet and social media at the bits and bytes level with some extensive talent promotion experience from a previous career. Mark has worked to build the brands of various top designers like the Robert Thomas Collection, Clodagh Design, Timothy Corrigan, Terry Hunziker, Lori Weitzner and many more. Mark explains that he believes that the world of design is changing and good design more than ever needs to be seen. Therefore, he decides to create Tastefully Inspired to showcase the true tastemakers in our industry. Show Notes: When did Mark launch “Tastefully Inspired”? How did Mark decide to use the design industry as his nitch business? How long has Mark worked in the marketing industry? How does Mark find the designers to have on his blog? What does every designer he has on his blog have in common? Who calls Mark for ideas for a “cool” designer? What are his goals with his podcast? Where did he come up with the idea to start his own podcast? What are his thoughts about restoration hardware? What are his thoughts about Curated Kravet? Are there specific do’s and don’ts when working with an Instagram? How can you use hashtags on Instagram to increase visibility? What is a five-dot system and why is it important? Can you have too many hashtags on a picture? What is the best way to communicate with designers? How should you do your research when using hashtags? What are some other platforms to use for traffic? Resources: www.tastefullyinspired.com www.curatedkravet.com   Wed, 07 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another episode of A Well Design Business! Today on the show I’m going to talk with Mark McDonough, the founder and editor of “Tastefully Inspired” blog and the curator of the Instagram feed for “Tastefully Inspired”.... Welcome back to another episode of A Well Design Business! Today on the show I’m going to talk with Mark McDonough, the founder and editor of “Tastefully Inspired” blog and the curator of the Instagram feed for “Tastefully Inspired”. Mark’s skills and experience blend a very deep understanding of how the internet and social media at the bits and bytes level with some extensive talent promotion experience from a previous career. Mark has worked to build the brands of various top designers like the Robert Thomas Collection, Clodagh Design, Timothy Corrigan, Terry Hunziker, Lori Weitzner and many more. Mark explains that he believes that the world of design is changing and good design more than ever needs to be seen. Therefore, he decides to create Tastefully Inspired to showcase the true tastemakers in our industry. Show Notes: When did Mark launch “Tastefully Inspired”? How did Mark decide to use the design industry as his nitch business? How long has Mark worked in the marketing industry? How does Mark find the designers to have on his blog? What does every designer he has on his blog have in common? Who calls Mark for ideas for a “cool” designer? What are his goals with his podcast? Where did he come up with the idea to start his own podcast? What are his thoughts about restoration hardware? What are his thoughts about Curated Kravet? Are there specific do’s and don’ts when working with an Instagram? How can you use hashtags on Instagram to increase visibility? What is a five-dot system and why is it important? Can you have too many hashtags on a picture? What is the best way to communicate with designers? How should you do your research when using hashtags? What are some other platforms to use for traffic? Resources: www.tastefullyinspired.com www.curatedkravet.com   Welcome back to another episode of A Well Design Business! Today on the show I’m going to talk with Mark McDonough, the founder and editor of “Tastefully Inspired” blog and the curator of the Instagram feed for “Tastefully Inspired”. Mark’s skills and experience blend a very deep understanding of how the internet and social media at the bits and bytes level with some extensive talent promotion experience from a previous career. Mark has worked to build the brands of various top designers like the Robert Thomas Collection, Clodagh Design, Timothy Corrigan, Terry Hunziker, Lori Weitzner and many more. Mark explains that he believes that the world of design is changing and good design more than ever needs to be seen. Therefore, he decides to create Tastefully Inspired to showcase the true tastemakers in our industry.

Show Notes:

  • When did Mark launch “Tastefully Inspired”?
  • How did Mark decide to use the design industry as his nitch business?
  • How long has Mark worked in the marketing industry?
  • How does Mark find the designers to have on his blog?
  • What does every designer he has on his blog have in common?
  • Who calls Mark for ideas for a “cool” designer?
  • What are his goals with his podcast?
  • Where did he come up with the idea to start his own podcast?
  • What are his thoughts about restoration hardware?
  • What are his thoughts about Curated Kravet?
  • Are there specific do’s and don’ts when working with an Instagram?
  • How can you use hashtags on Instagram to increase visibility?
  • What is a five-dot system and why is it important?
  • Can you have too many hashtags on a picture?
  • What is the best way to communicate with designers?
  • How should you do your research when using hashtags?
  • What are some other platforms to use for traffic?

Resources:

www.tastefullyinspired.com

www.curatedkravet.com  

]]> 4666 no 109: Ashlina Kaposta - The Decorista - How To Rock Your “Ista"! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/109-ashlina-kaposta-the-decorista-how-to-rock-your-ista Ashlina Kaposta is the design blogger behind The Decorista, a household name in the world of interior design blogging. Ashlina works around-the-clock hours as an interior designer, site technician and writer, and she   attends design conferences as either a speaker or a member of the audience.  She has recently launched  a new self-adhesive wallpaper line with graphic stripes, animal prints, and other fun designs!  Here she is on our podcast discussing her inspired designs,  motivated moves, energized creations, and  life-changing choices and decisions.   Show Notes How Ashlina started her career Why she created the blog Decorista Her tips for building a successful business Importance of taking courses to enhance business skills Why enhancing speaking and writing skills is necessary The role of her blog in her success Attending industry events is very helpful Attending shows and visiting showrooms had a role in her success Continue learning everything you can about the industry and the people in it. The importance of publicity and exposure Building a successful brand Invest in your own stylized photography of your own work    Be intentional - what it means Tips on creating a vision board of your ideal project, the type of project you want to attract and be paid to execute.  Tips for dreams, goals, and planning You can find the rest of the show notes here: Window Works    Mon, 05 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Ashlina Kaposta is the design blogger behind The Decorista, a household name in the world of interior design blogging. Ashlina works around-the-clock hours as an interior designer, site technician and writer, and she   attends design... Ashlina Kaposta is the design blogger behind The Decorista, a household name in the world of interior design blogging. Ashlina works around-the-clock hours as an interior designer, site technician and writer, and she   attends design conferences as either a speaker or a member of the audience.  She has recently launched  a new self-adhesive wallpaper line with graphic stripes, animal prints, and other fun designs!  Here she is on our podcast discussing her inspired designs,  motivated moves, energized creations, and  life-changing choices and decisions.   Show Notes How Ashlina started her career Why she created the blog Decorista Her tips for building a successful business Importance of taking courses to enhance business skills Why enhancing speaking and writing skills is necessary The role of her blog in her success Attending industry events is very helpful Attending shows and visiting showrooms had a role in her success Continue learning everything you can about the industry and the people in it. The importance of publicity and exposure Building a successful brand Invest in your own stylized photography of your own work    Be intentional - what it means Tips on creating a vision board of your ideal project, the type of project you want to attract and be paid to execute.  Tips for dreams, goals, and planning You can find the rest of the show notes here: Window Works    Ashlina Kaposta is the design blogger behind The Decorista, a household name in the world of interior design blogging. Ashlina works around-the-clock hours as an interior designer, site technician and writer, and she   attends design conferences as either a speaker or a member of the audience.  She has recently launched  a new self-adhesive wallpaper line with graphic stripes, animal prints, and other fun designs!  Here she is on our podcast discussing her inspired designs,  motivated moves, energized creations, and  life-changing choices and decisions.  

Show Notes

  • How Ashlina started her career
  • Why she created the blog Decorista
  • Her tips for building a successful business
  • Importance of taking courses to enhance business skills
  • Why enhancing speaking and writing skills is necessary
  • The role of her blog in her success
  • Attending industry events is very helpful
  • Attending shows and visiting showrooms had a role in her success
  • Continue learning everything you can about the industry and the people in it.
  • The importance of publicity and exposure
  • Building a successful brand
  • Invest in your own stylized photography of your own work   
  • Be intentional - what it means
  • Tips on creating a vision board of your ideal project, the type of project you want to attract and be paid to execute. 
  • Tips for dreams, goals, and planning

You can find the rest of the show notes here: Window Works 

 

]]> 3379 no 108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/108-power-talk-friday-amy-flurry-how-to-pitch-and-get-press-for-your-interior-design-firm Amy specializes in helping interior designers pitch for press publicity. She follows a proven method of evaluating your press potential, current marketing materials, identification of storylines, and designing a strategic method for your media outreach plus specific recommendations for implementing such method.  She also helps designers in personalized pitch development for your current and future pitching on print and online. She is an editor and contributor to some of the biggest magazines on the news stand (Lucky, Country Living, Condé Nast Traveler, InStyle, Better Homes & Gardens). Amy authored the book Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz) and then took to the road, sharing her editorial insights with creative entrepreneurs.  Her book  has been called “the small business blueprint for DIY publicity,” packed with good, no-nonsense advice on how to get your story or product onto the pages of influential publications. Amy conducts lectures and workshops to further educate entrepreneurs on how to refine their message, engage media, and create relationships with editors and bloggers. Amy co-founded Paper-Cut-Project, a company whose clients include Kate Spade, Christies, Hermès, Cartier, and the Victoria & Albert museum. Paper-Cut-Project’s work has been featured in the New York Times, Italian Vogue, Nylon and Marie Claire Taiwan. Amy is also the creative director of Parlore, helping to develop and position a product management app and trade resource for interior designers.   Show Notes Techniques to create buzz for your business using the press How press helps your marketing Amy’s role in your press marketing The advantage of choosing Amy over other PR firms Are you ready for a publicist? What makes a good pitch and when to pitch Why Amy wrote the book Recipe for Press Standard method of pitching A pitch is short, concise but the homework takes a lot of time Amy’s publicist strategy The best things to do and the worst things to avoid in pitching The importance of research The different approaches for online and printed magazines Understanding the editorial calendar What are the blogs to write in Quick way to find who writes about who Creating content for interior designers Creating long-standing relationship with a publicist You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windwworks-nj.com   Fri, 02 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Amy specializes in helping interior designers pitch for press publicity. She follows a proven method of evaluating your press potential, current marketing materials, identification of storylines, and designing a strategic method for your media... Amy specializes in helping interior designers pitch for press publicity. She follows a proven method of evaluating your press potential, current marketing materials, identification of storylines, and designing a strategic method for your media outreach plus specific recommendations for implementing such method.  She also helps designers in personalized pitch development for your current and future pitching on print and online. She is an editor and contributor to some of the biggest magazines on the news stand (Lucky, Country Living, Condé Nast Traveler, InStyle, Better Homes & Gardens). Amy authored the book Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz) and then took to the road, sharing her editorial insights with creative entrepreneurs.  Her book  has been called “the small business blueprint for DIY publicity,” packed with good, no-nonsense advice on how to get your story or product onto the pages of influential publications. Amy conducts lectures and workshops to further educate entrepreneurs on how to refine their message, engage media, and create relationships with editors and bloggers. Amy co-founded Paper-Cut-Project, a company whose clients include Kate Spade, Christies, Hermès, Cartier, and the Victoria & Albert museum. Paper-Cut-Project’s work has been featured in the New York Times, Italian Vogue, Nylon and Marie Claire Taiwan. Amy is also the creative director of Parlore, helping to develop and position a product management app and trade resource for interior designers.   Show Notes Techniques to create buzz for your business using the press How press helps your marketing Amy’s role in your press marketing The advantage of choosing Amy over other PR firms Are you ready for a publicist? What makes a good pitch and when to pitch Why Amy wrote the book Recipe for Press Standard method of pitching A pitch is short, concise but the homework takes a lot of time Amy’s publicist strategy The best things to do and the worst things to avoid in pitching The importance of research The different approaches for online and printed magazines Understanding the editorial calendar What are the blogs to write in Quick way to find who writes about who Creating content for interior designers Creating long-standing relationship with a publicist You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windwworks-nj.com   Amy specializes in helping interior designers pitch for press publicity. She follows a proven method of evaluating your press potential, current marketing materials, identification of storylines, and designing a strategic method for your media outreach plus specific recommendations for implementing such method.  She also helps designers in personalized pitch development for your current and future pitching on print and online.

She is an editor and contributor to some of the biggest magazines on the news stand (Lucky, Country Living, Condé Nast Traveler, InStyle, Better Homes & Gardens). Amy authored the book Recipe for Press (Pitch Your Story and Create a Buzz) and then took to the road, sharing her editorial insights with creative entrepreneurs.  Her book  has been called “the small business blueprint for DIY publicity,” packed with good, no-nonsense advice on how to get your story or product onto the pages of influential publications. Amy conducts lectures and workshops to further educate entrepreneurs on how to refine their message, engage media, and create relationships with editors and bloggers.

Amy co-founded Paper-Cut-Project, a company whose clients include Kate Spade, Christies, Hermès, Cartier, and the Victoria & Albert museum. Paper-Cut-Project’s work has been featured in the New York Times, Italian Vogue, Nylon and Marie Claire Taiwan. Amy is also the creative director of Parlore, helping to develop and position a product management app and trade resource for interior designers.  

Show Notes

  • Techniques to create buzz for your business using the press
  • How press helps your marketing
  • Amy’s role in your press marketing
  • The advantage of choosing Amy over other PR firms
  • Are you ready for a publicist?
  • What makes a good pitch and when to pitch
  • Why Amy wrote the book Recipe for Press
  • Standard method of pitching
  • A pitch is short, concise but the homework takes a lot of time
  • Amy’s publicist strategy
  • The best things to do and the worst things to avoid in pitching
  • The importance of research
  • The different approaches for online and printed magazines
  • Understanding the editorial calendar
  • What are the blogs to write in
  • Quick way to find who writes about who
  • Creating content for interior designers
  • Creating long-standing relationship with a publicist

You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windwworks-nj.com

 

]]> 3786 no 107: Brook Devenport- How To Turn Your Side Hustle Into A Flourishing, Profitable Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/107-brook-devenport-how-to-turn-your-side-hustle-into-a-flourishing-profitable-business Hi Welcome to another episode of  A Well-Designed Business. On the show today I have Brook Devenport. Brook is the owner of Blinds & More located in Minnesota. We are going to hear Brook’s personal story and how she took a business that practically started by accident and after nearly 6 years she transformed it into a well run, profitable business with 7 team members who together do both custom window treatments and interior design in Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa. Show Notes  The business didn’t magically grow into a high earning business. It took a lot of planning and tool-using Initial sales targeting was $60,000 in yearly sales. On the second year annual sales was $178,000. Current sales run to $650,000 annually Sales goal was but sales was Things they did differently to achieve the sales goal Her husband’s role in the success of her business Tracking appointments and tracking dealer’s performance All the tools they installed to track and monitor the business Their “ahah” moment Color coding the hard files The Tony Robbins effect on their business Being intentional. What it means When they decided to run a business, to work on her business, not simply in her business. The role of advertising on her success Quotables: If you know how to sell, you can sell almost anything. – Luann Take responsibility for setting your goals for monitoring your expenses, for analyzing every project for net cost and net profits. Manage your business with your eyes wide open. You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windowworks-nj.com Wed, 30 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Hi Welcome to another episode of  A Well-Designed Business. On the show today I have Brook Devenport. Brook is the owner of Blinds & More located in Minnesota. We are going to hear Brook’s personal story and how she took a business that... Hi Welcome to another episode of  A Well-Designed Business. On the show today I have Brook Devenport. Brook is the owner of Blinds & More located in Minnesota. We are going to hear Brook’s personal story and how she took a business that practically started by accident and after nearly 6 years she transformed it into a well run, profitable business with 7 team members who together do both custom window treatments and interior design in Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa. Show Notes  The business didn’t magically grow into a high earning business. It took a lot of planning and tool-using Initial sales targeting was $60,000 in yearly sales. On the second year annual sales was $178,000. Current sales run to $650,000 annually Sales goal was but sales was Things they did differently to achieve the sales goal Her husband’s role in the success of her business Tracking appointments and tracking dealer’s performance All the tools they installed to track and monitor the business Their “ahah” moment Color coding the hard files The Tony Robbins effect on their business Being intentional. What it means When they decided to run a business, to work on her business, not simply in her business. The role of advertising on her success Quotables: If you know how to sell, you can sell almost anything. – Luann Take responsibility for setting your goals for monitoring your expenses, for analyzing every project for net cost and net profits. Manage your business with your eyes wide open. You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windowworks-nj.com Hi Welcome to another episode of  A Well-Designed Business. On the show today I have Brook Devenport. Brook is the owner of Blinds & More located in Minnesota. We are going to hear Brook’s personal story and how she took a business that practically started by accident and after nearly 6 years she transformed it into a well run, profitable business with 7 team members who together do both custom window treatments and interior design in Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa.

Show Notes 

  • The business didn’t magically grow into a high earning business.

It took a lot of planning and tool-using

  • Initial sales targeting was $60,000 in yearly sales.
  • On the second year annual sales was $178,000.
  • Current sales run to $650,000 annually
  • Sales goal was but sales was
  • Things they did differently to achieve the sales goal
  • Her husband’s role in the success of her business
  • Tracking appointments and tracking dealer’s performance
  • All the tools they installed to track and monitor the business
  • Their “ahah” moment
  • Color coding the hard files
  • The Tony Robbins effect on their business
  • Being intentional. What it means
  • When they decided to run a business, to work on her business, not simply in her business.
  • The role of advertising on her success
  • Quotables:
  • If you know how to sell, you can sell almost anything. – Luann
  • Take responsibility for setting your goals for monitoring your expenses, for analyzing every project for net cost and net profits.
  • Manage your business with your eyes wide open.

You can find the rest of the show notes and resources  at www.windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3527 no 106: Taylor Spellman- An Inside Look into the Career of Bravo TV's Co-Host of "Yours, Mine or Ours" http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/106-taylor-spellman-an-inside-look-into-the-career-of-bravo-tvs-co-host-of-yours-mine-or-ours I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has million dollar clientele in New York City. Show Notes: Did Taylor go to school for interior design? What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field? What do Taylor’s clients have in common? How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche? How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea? What did Taylor go to school for? What were Taylor’s intentions for her career? What is Taylor’s competitive edge? Nothing just happens! How did she discover staging as another niche? How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships? Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer? What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”? What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about? Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes? How does she execute her design on the show? Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set? Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Mon, 28 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether... I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has million dollar clientele in New York City. Show Notes: Did Taylor go to school for interior design? What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field? What do Taylor’s clients have in common? How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche? How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea? What did Taylor go to school for? What were Taylor’s intentions for her career? What is Taylor’s competitive edge? Nothing just happens! How did she discover staging as another niche? How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships? Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer? What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”? What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about? Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes? How does she execute her design on the show? Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set? Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  I have another fun show for you today! Taylor Spellman is with us today. Taylor is a New York based interior designer and staging expert. She is also the host of Bravo’s new TV show “Yours Mine or Ours”. No matter what she is designing- whether it be a 10-million-dollar penthouse, the lobby of a high-rise or the showroom for a fashion client-- her super down to earth personality combined with her bold style makes her a stand out in our interior design community. Taylor has the unique and unteachable talent using high end one of a kind pieces to an afternoon spent at the Goodwill. Today you will learn how she came from humble beginnings and now has million dollar clientele in New York City.

Show Notes:

  • Did Taylor go to school for interior design?
  • What are some pros for an interior designer that was not classically trained in the interior design field?
  • What do Taylor’s clients have in common?
  • How did she decide she wanted to work with men for her niche?
  • How long did she research her idea for her niche before launching the idea?
  • What did Taylor go to school for?
  • What were Taylor’s intentions for her career?
  • What is Taylor’s competitive edge?
  • Nothing just happens!
  • How did she discover staging as another niche?
  • How did she find events to attend in real estate and build relationships?
  • Why is it a good idea to have a lawyer?
  • What opportunities came about before “Yours Mine or Ours”?
  • What is the show “Yours Mine or Ours” about?
  • Is it all just about real estate when helping clients with their homes?
  • How does she execute her design on the show?
  • Where do her girls from her business fit in while Taylor is working on set?
  • Is there any other advice she would give to her colleagues?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 3853 no 105: Power Talk Friday: One Click Lindsey- How to Increase Traffic to Your Website http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/105-power-talk-friday-one-click-lindsey-how-to-increase-traffic-to-your-website Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I am happy to introduce to you Lindsey Anderson who is also known as One Click Lindsey. The reason for this is that she is a professional coach, counselor and her business is in helping. Lindsey is the founder and CEO of Trafficandleads.com. Today we are going to talk about how to get your web presence to work for you. Show Notes: How can you capture the email address of a potential client? What does it mean to capture an email address of someone who visits the website? Are most of the people that visit the website ready to commit? What is an e-book? What is email marketing? Are there other ways besides eBooks to resource your website? What is Fiverr and how can it be helpful? How often should you email the email addresses you receive? What does it show when you email people who have given you an email address? After getting the email address do you need to hire a professional to help manage the emails? What is MailChimp and how can this be helpful? What do you do if what your offer is not working? What could you include in your emails? How should you write the emails? Why is Lindsey’s nickname One Click Lindsey? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Fri, 25 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I am happy to introduce to you Lindsey Anderson who is also known as One Click Lindsey. The reason for this is that she is a professional coach, counselor and her business is in helping. Lindsey is the... Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I am happy to introduce to you Lindsey Anderson who is also known as One Click Lindsey. The reason for this is that she is a professional coach, counselor and her business is in helping. Lindsey is the founder and CEO of Trafficandleads.com. Today we are going to talk about how to get your web presence to work for you. Show Notes: How can you capture the email address of a potential client? What does it mean to capture an email address of someone who visits the website? Are most of the people that visit the website ready to commit? What is an e-book? What is email marketing? Are there other ways besides eBooks to resource your website? What is Fiverr and how can it be helpful? How often should you email the email addresses you receive? What does it show when you email people who have given you an email address? After getting the email address do you need to hire a professional to help manage the emails? What is MailChimp and how can this be helpful? What do you do if what your offer is not working? What could you include in your emails? How should you write the emails? Why is Lindsey’s nickname One Click Lindsey? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Welcome back to another power talk Friday! I am happy to introduce to you Lindsey Anderson who is also known as One Click Lindsey. The reason for this is that she is a professional coach, counselor and her business is in helping. Lindsey is the founder and CEO of Trafficandleads.com. Today we are going to talk about how to get your web presence to work for you.

Show Notes:

  • How can you capture the email address of a potential client?
  • What does it mean to capture an email address of someone who visits the website?
  • Are most of the people that visit the website ready to commit?
  • What is an e-book?
  • What is email marketing?
  • Are there other ways besides eBooks to resource your website?
  • What is Fiverr and how can it be helpful?
  • How often should you email the email addresses you receive?
  • What does it show when you email people who have given you an email address?
  • After getting the email address do you need to hire a professional to help manage the emails?
  • What is MailChimp and how can this be helpful?
  • What do you do if what your offer is not working?
  • What could you include in your emails?
  • How should you write the emails?
  • Why is Lindsey’s nickname One Click Lindsey?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works.

]]> 1971 no 104: Kate the Socialite- Done-for-You Marketing for the Interior Design Industry http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/104-kate-the-socialite-done-for-you-marketing-for-the-interior-design-industry Kate Greunke  is with us today! Kate is a published author, entrepreneur and founder of Kate the Socialite. Kate the Socialite is a marketing firm and niches in marketing for interior designers, window treatment professionals and remodelers. After two years of watching interior designers be taken advantage of by big companies and listening to her clients say and tell her how difficult it was to keep up with their email and social marketing, Kate decided to create a solution. She had already been designing custom newsletters and social media content for years. Not everyone could or would spend big bucks on a custom package. She decided to create a marketing solution that was affordable and easy to use, something that could be easily customized and sent in just a few clicks. Then a short time later, Socialite Subscribe was born! Check out Kate's website at  www.katethesocialite.com. Show Notes: How did Kate arrive at her platform niche? Who were her best customers? What happened to her business when Kate found her niche? What are her services she provides for businesses? How does she make the newsletter different for everyone? What kind of success stories does she have? Does she have services to help with technical services? What social media platforms does she help people use? To get Kate’s help do you have to be bound with a contract? Is it a good idea for a client to sit down and evaluate their time before signing up? What about those people who do not have a mailing list or a small mailing list? What are the pros to having a smaller mailing list sometimes? What does your mindset have to do with the success of your business? How often does she have a meeting with her clients and how does the interaction go ? When was she first offered a publishing contract? When did she write her first novel and what was it about? What is her favorite part of her job? What role does her husband play in her business? What sort of free services can you get with her program? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Wed, 23 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Kate Greunke  is with us today! Kate is a published author, entrepreneur and founder of Kate the Socialite. Kate the Socialite is a marketing firm and niches in marketing for interior designers, window treatment professionals and remodelers.... Kate Greunke  is with us today! Kate is a published author, entrepreneur and founder of Kate the Socialite. Kate the Socialite is a marketing firm and niches in marketing for interior designers, window treatment professionals and remodelers. After two years of watching interior designers be taken advantage of by big companies and listening to her clients say and tell her how difficult it was to keep up with their email and social marketing, Kate decided to create a solution. She had already been designing custom newsletters and social media content for years. Not everyone could or would spend big bucks on a custom package. She decided to create a marketing solution that was affordable and easy to use, something that could be easily customized and sent in just a few clicks. Then a short time later, Socialite Subscribe was born! Check out Kate's website at  www.katethesocialite.com. Show Notes: How did Kate arrive at her platform niche? Who were her best customers? What happened to her business when Kate found her niche? What are her services she provides for businesses? How does she make the newsletter different for everyone? What kind of success stories does she have? Does she have services to help with technical services? What social media platforms does she help people use? To get Kate’s help do you have to be bound with a contract? Is it a good idea for a client to sit down and evaluate their time before signing up? What about those people who do not have a mailing list or a small mailing list? What are the pros to having a smaller mailing list sometimes? What does your mindset have to do with the success of your business? How often does she have a meeting with her clients and how does the interaction go ? When was she first offered a publishing contract? When did she write her first novel and what was it about? What is her favorite part of her job? What role does her husband play in her business? What sort of free services can you get with her program? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Kate Greunke  is with us today! Kate is a published author, entrepreneur and founder of Kate the Socialite. Kate the Socialite is a marketing firm and niches in marketing for interior designers, window treatment professionals and remodelers. After two years of watching interior designers be taken advantage of by big companies and listening to her clients say and tell her how difficult it was to keep up with their email and social marketing, Kate decided to create a solution. She had already been designing custom newsletters and social media content for years. Not everyone could or would spend big bucks on a custom package. She decided to create a marketing solution that was affordable and easy to use, something that could be easily customized and sent in just a few clicks. Then a short time later, Socialite Subscribe was born!

Check out Kate's website at  www.katethesocialite.com.

Show Notes:

  • How did Kate arrive at her platform niche?
  • Who were her best customers?
  • What happened to her business when Kate found her niche?
  • What are her services she provides for businesses?
  • How does she make the newsletter different for everyone?
  • What kind of success stories does she have?
  • Does she have services to help with technical services?
  • What social media platforms does she help people use?
  • To get Kate’s help do you have to be bound with a contract?
  • Is it a good idea for a client to sit down and evaluate their time before signing up?
  • What about those people who do not have a mailing list or a small mailing list?
  • What are the pros to having a smaller mailing list sometimes?
  • What does your mindset have to do with the success of your business?
  • How often does she have a meeting with her clients and how does the interaction go ?
  • When was she first offered a publishing contract?
  • When did she write her first novel and what was it about?
  • What is her favorite part of her job?
  • What role does her husband play in her business?
  • What sort of free services can you get with her program?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 3993 no 103: Jake Baer- CEO of Newel - 4th Generation CEO Re-invents and Re-energizes the Family Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/103-jake-baer-ceo-of-newel-4th-generation-ceo-re-invents-and-re-energizes-the-family-business Something must be in the air, I keep running into fourth generation business owners! Last week Scott Kravet was here for our 100th episode and he told us about the history of the Kravet family. He is part of the fourth generation of the Kravets to work and run Kravet Inc. Today we have Jake Baer on the show with me and he is the twenty-eight-year-old CEO of Newel. Newel is the home of the largest decorative art collection and furniture in the US. Newel has been known for many years for its prop rental business since the 1930s. Jake was named the CEO of Newel in 2015 and he has really spearheaded change with a brand-new gallery in Manhattan. He has recently moved their collection to a massive warehouse in Long Island City in Long Island. We are going to talk about how he is moving Newel into a new age. Show Notes: What was it like for Jake growing up in a family business? Who did he work with to learn the business? What sort of challenges has Jake faced being a young CEO? Are his siblings involved in the business: Newel? What is he doing for newer/younger interior designers? How can you get in on the dinners that Jake holds for interior designers? How does his business help people who live the apartment life? Can furniture be shipped out all over the US? What kind of antique furniture does Newel have to offer? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works   Mon, 21 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Something must be in the air, I keep running into fourth generation business owners! Last week Scott Kravet was here for our 100th episode and he told us about the history of the Kravet family. He is part of the fourth generation of the Kravets to... Something must be in the air, I keep running into fourth generation business owners! Last week Scott Kravet was here for our 100th episode and he told us about the history of the Kravet family. He is part of the fourth generation of the Kravets to work and run Kravet Inc. Today we have Jake Baer on the show with me and he is the twenty-eight-year-old CEO of Newel. Newel is the home of the largest decorative art collection and furniture in the US. Newel has been known for many years for its prop rental business since the 1930s. Jake was named the CEO of Newel in 2015 and he has really spearheaded change with a brand-new gallery in Manhattan. He has recently moved their collection to a massive warehouse in Long Island City in Long Island. We are going to talk about how he is moving Newel into a new age. Show Notes: What was it like for Jake growing up in a family business? Who did he work with to learn the business? What sort of challenges has Jake faced being a young CEO? Are his siblings involved in the business: Newel? What is he doing for newer/younger interior designers? How can you get in on the dinners that Jake holds for interior designers? How does his business help people who live the apartment life? Can furniture be shipped out all over the US? What kind of antique furniture does Newel have to offer? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works   Something must be in the air, I keep running into fourth generation business owners! Last week Scott Kravet was here for our 100th episode and he told us about the history of the Kravet family. He is part of the fourth generation of the Kravets to work and run Kravet Inc.

Today we have Jake Baer on the show with me and he is the twenty-eight-year-old CEO of Newel. Newel is the home of the largest decorative art collection and furniture in the US. Newel has been known for many years for its prop rental business since the 1930s. Jake was named the CEO of Newel in 2015 and he has really spearheaded change with a brand-new gallery in Manhattan. He has recently moved their collection to a massive warehouse in Long Island City in Long Island. We are going to talk about how he is moving Newel into a new age.

Show Notes:

  • What was it like for Jake growing up in a family business?
  • Who did he work with to learn the business?
  • What sort of challenges has Jake faced being a young CEO?
  • Are his siblings involved in the business: Newel?
  • What is he doing for newer/younger interior designers?
  • How can you get in on the dinners that Jake holds for interior designers?
  • How does his business help people who live the apartment life?
  • Can furniture be shipped out all over the US?
  • What kind of antique furniture does Newel have to offer?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works

 

]]> 3476 no 102: Power Talk Friday- Shauna Lynn Simon- Part 2- How to Host A Successful Consumer Event For Your Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/102-power-talk-friday-shauna-lynn-simon-part-2-how-to-host-a-successful-consumer-event-for-your-community Welcome to another power talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us again today! If you listened to a previous power talk Friday, we started talking about how to host a successful home consumer event. In the first episode, we talked about the first three things that you need to do to set up a successful event. This included choosing your title, choosing the venue for the workshop, how to market your event and securing sponsors. Today Shauna Lynn is going to take it further with us and talk about content creation, managing and selecting guest speakers if it’s not yourself, handouts that you should possibly do using your event for a lead generation machine. Show Notes: How can you create a good visual at your event? If you don’t access to electronic presentation what are some other ways to present? How can you prepare for your speaking part? Do you want audience participation? How should the area for seating be set up? When should you ask for donations at an event? How can you use your vendors to explain designs better? What should be the focus at your event? How do you choose a guest speaker? How can you increase your reputation at these events? What other material should you include in the goody bags? What is a lead generation machine? Free is good! Why is it important to use a professional event planning program? How can you ask for guest’s email addresses? How important is a “thank you” after the event? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center:  Window Works Fri, 18 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another power talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us again today! If you listened to a previous power talk Friday, we started talking about how to host a successful home consumer event. In the first episode, we talked about the... Welcome to another power talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us again today! If you listened to a previous power talk Friday, we started talking about how to host a successful home consumer event. In the first episode, we talked about the first three things that you need to do to set up a successful event. This included choosing your title, choosing the venue for the workshop, how to market your event and securing sponsors. Today Shauna Lynn is going to take it further with us and talk about content creation, managing and selecting guest speakers if it’s not yourself, handouts that you should possibly do using your event for a lead generation machine. Show Notes: How can you create a good visual at your event? If you don’t access to electronic presentation what are some other ways to present? How can you prepare for your speaking part? Do you want audience participation? How should the area for seating be set up? When should you ask for donations at an event? How can you use your vendors to explain designs better? What should be the focus at your event? How do you choose a guest speaker? How can you increase your reputation at these events? What other material should you include in the goody bags? What is a lead generation machine? Free is good! Why is it important to use a professional event planning program? How can you ask for guest’s email addresses? How important is a “thank you” after the event? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center:  Window Works Welcome to another power talk Friday! We have Shauna Lynn Simon with us again today! If you listened to a previous power talk Friday, we started talking about how to host a successful home consumer event. In the first episode, we talked about the first three things that you need to do to set up a successful event. This included choosing your title, choosing the venue for the workshop, how to market your event and securing sponsors. Today Shauna Lynn is going to take it further with us and talk about content creation, managing and selecting guest speakers if it’s not yourself, handouts that you should possibly do using your event for a lead generation machine.

Show Notes:

  • How can you create a good visual at your event?
  • If you don’t access to electronic presentation what are some other ways to present?
  • How can you prepare for your speaking part?
  • Do you want audience participation?
  • How should the area for seating be set up?
  • When should you ask for donations at an event?
  • How can you use your vendors to explain designs better?
  • What should be the focus at your event?
  • How do you choose a guest speaker?
  • How can you increase your reputation at these events?
  • What other material should you include in the goody bags?
  • What is a lead generation machine?
  • Free is good!
  • Why is it important to use a professional event planning program?
  • How can you ask for guest’s email addresses?
  • How important is a “thank you” after the event?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center:  Window Works

]]> 2592 no 101: Joni Vanderslice - Principal of J. Banks Design - Resort is Home & Home is Resort- another firm that reinforces niching as a path to success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/101-joni-vanderslice-principal-of-j-banks-design-resort-is-home-home-is-resort-another-firm-that-reinforces-niching-as-a-path-to-success Before I introduce our guest on the show today, Joni Vanderslice I have a big announcement! I am happy to introduce a new sponsor to the show: Mydoma Studio. If you remember a couple of weeks ago we had Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio who told us about her company, how she came to found it, and all the features it has for you to help run your interior design projects more efficiently. If you missed that show you should go back and listen to Sarah and all about Mydoma Studio! In the meantime, thank you Mydoma Studio for recognizing these fabulous interior designers that we have here at A Well Design Business. As I said we have Joni Vanderslice with us today and she is the owner and president of J. Banks Design Group in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Joni founded her firm thirty years ago! Since then she has nurtured the Hilton Head Island-based operation into an internationally recognized force of residential and resort design. J. Banks Design takes on a global portfolio of projects that translates resort living to home and home living to resort-living. Show Notes: How many people are in her firm and how many interior designers does she have working for her? How did she get started? What is a catalyst in business and why is it important to have one? How did Joni’s consultant help her with her firm? How should you write a job description? How did she use a philosophy of using gifts to build her firm? How should you mentor new interior designers? What are the “words”? What are the other people at the firm doing that are not interior designers? Are the jobs at the firm mostly full time or part time? What does Joni’s day look like at J. Banks every day? How often does she have meetings with her team? What is the Valentine Project? How is Kravet Inc. helping with the Valentine Project? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Wed, 16 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Before I introduce our guest on the show today, Joni Vanderslice I have a big announcement! I am happy to introduce a new sponsor to the show: Mydoma Studio. If you remember a couple of weeks ago we had Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio who... Before I introduce our guest on the show today, Joni Vanderslice I have a big announcement! I am happy to introduce a new sponsor to the show: Mydoma Studio. If you remember a couple of weeks ago we had Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio who told us about her company, how she came to found it, and all the features it has for you to help run your interior design projects more efficiently. If you missed that show you should go back and listen to Sarah and all about Mydoma Studio! In the meantime, thank you Mydoma Studio for recognizing these fabulous interior designers that we have here at A Well Design Business. As I said we have Joni Vanderslice with us today and she is the owner and president of J. Banks Design Group in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Joni founded her firm thirty years ago! Since then she has nurtured the Hilton Head Island-based operation into an internationally recognized force of residential and resort design. J. Banks Design takes on a global portfolio of projects that translates resort living to home and home living to resort-living. Show Notes: How many people are in her firm and how many interior designers does she have working for her? How did she get started? What is a catalyst in business and why is it important to have one? How did Joni’s consultant help her with her firm? How should you write a job description? How did she use a philosophy of using gifts to build her firm? How should you mentor new interior designers? What are the “words”? What are the other people at the firm doing that are not interior designers? Are the jobs at the firm mostly full time or part time? What does Joni’s day look like at J. Banks every day? How often does she have meetings with her team? What is the Valentine Project? How is Kravet Inc. helping with the Valentine Project? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Before I introduce our guest on the show today, Joni Vanderslice I have a big announcement! I am happy to introduce a new sponsor to the show: Mydoma Studio. If you remember a couple of weeks ago we had Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio who told us about her company, how she came to found it, and all the features it has for you to help run your interior design projects more efficiently. If you missed that show you should go back and listen to Sarah and all about Mydoma Studio! In the meantime, thank you Mydoma Studio for recognizing these fabulous interior designers that we have here at A Well Design Business.

As I said we have Joni Vanderslice with us today and she is the owner and president of J. Banks Design Group in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Joni founded her firm thirty years ago! Since then she has nurtured the Hilton Head Island-based operation into an internationally recognized force of residential and resort design. J. Banks Design takes on a global portfolio of projects that translates resort living to home and home living to resort-living.

Show Notes:

  • How many people are in her firm and how many interior designers does she have working for her?
  • How did she get started?
  • What is a catalyst in business and why is it important to have one?
  • How did Joni’s consultant help her with her firm?
  • How should you write a job description?
  • How did she use a philosophy of using gifts to build her firm?
  • How should you mentor new interior designers?
  • What are the “words”?
  • What are the other people at the firm doing that are not interior designers?
  • Are the jobs at the firm mostly full time or part time?
  • What does Joni’s day look like at J. Banks every day?
  • How often does she have meetings with her team?
  • What is the Valentine Project?
  • How is Kravet Inc. helping with the Valentine Project?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works.

]]> 4744 no 100: Scott Kravet - Celebrating our 100th Episode! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/100-scott-kravet-celebrating-our-100th-episode This is a celebratory episode dear loyal listeners! This is our 100th podcast episode and it’s time to celebrate! It’s certainly a very optimistic number as the podcast prognosis goes:  If you make it to the 7th episode, you can make it to the 45th … and if you make it to the 100th you’ll make it for a while! Our guest for this landmark episode is Scott Kravet, the great grandson of Samuel Kravet, the founder of Kravet Inc.  Kravet Inc. will be celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2018. Another 100th reason to celebrate! Kravet Inc. was established in 1918 by Samuel Kravet, and it has grown to be  the industry leader in the home furnishings industry -- fabrics, furniture, carpets, drapery, trimmings, wall coverings, and others. The family’s commitment to innovation has helped the company transform from a small fabric house to a global leader, representing brands and designers from all over the world. Kravet Inc. owns Kravet, Lee Jofa, Groundworks and GP & J Baker, all high-end fabric houses that specialize in style, luxury and exceptional design. Scott Kravet, part of the company’s 4th generation, is the Creative Director and Head of Product Development. Having a near encyclopedic knowledge of fabrics, he oversees all aspects of product development for Kravet and its brands. He is an alumnus of Emory University and the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science. Scott manages creative teams in 5 design studios in New York and worldwide. He travels the globe sourcing products from the finest craftsmen and best mills.   I’m deeply grateful to Kravet Inc. for continuing to sponsor our podcast (since 2015) which by now is followed by professional  groups consisting of over 70,000 and growing! At the minimum, Window Works  get contacted by 5 interior designers daily and they all mention the Well-Designed Business podcast as the source and resource. Thank you, Kravet Inc.!! Show Notes Kravet products are for trade-only. All products are available to interior designers only to protect their interests Retail sales are for interior designers only Kravet designs remain cherished and fashionable for a long time Kravet Showrooms are updated with the latest featured designs regularly The “for trade only” policy does not seem to be an issue All lamps, trays, pillow, textiles, all neatly laid out corporate products on exhibit   Honor and respect what your family has accomplished as  a personal, professional, and corporate policy It’s not enough to create beautiful anything; you must package and market it smartly. Reinventing the business Reaching out to the influencers Watch out for the Kravet Centennial where they will be honoring all the people who have helped them all these years. Check out Episodes 10, 59, 17, 34, and 74 where designers talked about their experience in working with Kravet. Kravet has a culture that supports creativity, collaboration, kindness, and respect to your clients and vendors An archive of over 30,000 textile collections is currently on exhibit; check out with ASID for the details. The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Mon, 14 Nov 2016 07:18:47 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara This is a celebratory episode dear loyal listeners! This is our 100th podcast episode and it’s time to celebrate! It’s certainly a very optimistic number as the podcast prognosis goes:  If you make it to the 7th episode, you can make it to... This is a celebratory episode dear loyal listeners! This is our 100th podcast episode and it’s time to celebrate! It’s certainly a very optimistic number as the podcast prognosis goes:  If you make it to the 7th episode, you can make it to the 45th … and if you make it to the 100th you’ll make it for a while! Our guest for this landmark episode is Scott Kravet, the great grandson of Samuel Kravet, the founder of Kravet Inc.  Kravet Inc. will be celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2018. Another 100th reason to celebrate! Kravet Inc. was established in 1918 by Samuel Kravet, and it has grown to be  the industry leader in the home furnishings industry -- fabrics, furniture, carpets, drapery, trimmings, wall coverings, and others. The family’s commitment to innovation has helped the company transform from a small fabric house to a global leader, representing brands and designers from all over the world. Kravet Inc. owns Kravet, Lee Jofa, Groundworks and GP & J Baker, all high-end fabric houses that specialize in style, luxury and exceptional design. Scott Kravet, part of the company’s 4th generation, is the Creative Director and Head of Product Development. Having a near encyclopedic knowledge of fabrics, he oversees all aspects of product development for Kravet and its brands. He is an alumnus of Emory University and the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science. Scott manages creative teams in 5 design studios in New York and worldwide. He travels the globe sourcing products from the finest craftsmen and best mills.   I’m deeply grateful to Kravet Inc. for continuing to sponsor our podcast (since 2015) which by now is followed by professional  groups consisting of over 70,000 and growing! At the minimum, Window Works  get contacted by 5 interior designers daily and they all mention the Well-Designed Business podcast as the source and resource. Thank you, Kravet Inc.!! Show Notes Kravet products are for trade-only. All products are available to interior designers only to protect their interests Retail sales are for interior designers only Kravet designs remain cherished and fashionable for a long time Kravet Showrooms are updated with the latest featured designs regularly The “for trade only” policy does not seem to be an issue All lamps, trays, pillow, textiles, all neatly laid out corporate products on exhibit   Honor and respect what your family has accomplished as  a personal, professional, and corporate policy It’s not enough to create beautiful anything; you must package and market it smartly. Reinventing the business Reaching out to the influencers Watch out for the Kravet Centennial where they will be honoring all the people who have helped them all these years. Check out Episodes 10, 59, 17, 34, and 74 where designers talked about their experience in working with Kravet. Kravet has a culture that supports creativity, collaboration, kindness, and respect to your clients and vendors An archive of over 30,000 textile collections is currently on exhibit; check out with ASID for the details. The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. This is a celebratory episode dear loyal listeners! This is our 100th podcast episode and it’s time to celebrate! It’s certainly a very optimistic number as the podcast prognosis goes:  If you make it to the 7th episode, you can make it to the 45th … and if you make it to the 100th you’ll make it for a while! Our guest for this landmark episode is Scott Kravet, the great grandson of Samuel Kravet, the founder of Kravet Inc. 

Kravet Inc. will be celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2018. Another 100th reason to celebrate! Kravet Inc. was established in 1918 by Samuel Kravet, and it has grown to be  the industry leader in the home furnishings industry -- fabrics, furniture, carpets, drapery, trimmings, wall coverings, and others. The family’s commitment to innovation has helped the company transform from a small fabric house to a global leader, representing brands and designers from all over the world. Kravet Inc. owns Kravet, Lee Jofa, Groundworks and GP & J Baker, all high-end fabric houses that specialize in style, luxury and exceptional design.

Scott Kravet, part of the company’s 4th generation, is the Creative Director and Head of Product Development. Having a near encyclopedic knowledge of fabrics, he oversees all aspects of product development for Kravet and its brands. He is an alumnus of Emory University and the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science. Scott manages creative teams in 5 design studios in New York and worldwide. He travels the globe sourcing products from the finest craftsmen and best mills.  

I’m deeply grateful to Kravet Inc. for continuing to sponsor our podcast (since 2015) which by now is followed by professional  groups consisting of over 70,000 and growing! At the minimum, Window Works  get contacted by 5 interior designers daily and they all mention the Well-Designed Business podcast as the source and resource. Thank you, Kravet Inc.!!

Show Notes

  • Kravet products are for trade-only.
  • All products are available to interior designers only to protect their interests
  • Retail sales are for interior designers only
  • Kravet designs remain cherished and fashionable for a long time
  • Kravet Showrooms are updated with the latest featured designs regularly
  • The “for trade only” policy does not seem to be an issue
  • All lamps, trays, pillow, textiles, all neatly laid out corporate products on exhibit  
  • Honor and respect what your family has accomplished as  a personal, professional, and corporate policy
  • It’s not enough to create beautiful anything; you must package and market it smartly.
  • Reinventing the business
  • Reaching out to the influencers
  • Watch out for the Kravet Centennial where they will be honoring all the people who have helped them all these years.
  • Check out Episodes 10, 59, 17, 34, and 74 where designers talked about their experience in working with Kravet. Kravet has a culture that supports creativity, collaboration, kindness, and respect to your clients and vendors
  • An archive of over 30,000 textile collections is currently on exhibit; check out with ASID for the details.

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works.

]]> 4002 no 99: Power Talk Friday- John Muldoon-The Monthly Experiments Projects http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/99-power-talk-friday-john-muldoon-the-monthly-experiments-projects It’s power talk Friday again! I have a treat for all of you today. I found our guest, John Muldoon while I was doing research, and I got jazzed up when I saw what John is doing! We are going to be talking to him about his “business” (a consulting firm) that he has had for twelve years! But we are really going to get into his powerful blog called The Monthly Experiments Project. Show Notes: What is his description of his job and why are there two versions? How did he come up with his brand? What is his blog The Monthly Experiment about? How did he come up with his blog: The Monthly Experiment? Why is he doing his blog The Monthly Experiment? What happened when John finally found a balance between work and life? What did he do to help pick up the business when he started working less? How do you get more referrals according to John? How can you make your blog or podcast more successful and what is the most important quality a blog can have? How can you be more helpful? What are the two things that create the value of a blog? How do you start a blog and how does John help people with this? How do you join his blog challenge and join his free membership group? What are some of the “Experiments” he has done on his blog? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works Fri, 11 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s power talk Friday again! I have a treat for all of you today. I found our guest, John Muldoon while I was doing research, and I got jazzed up when I saw what John is doing! We are going to be talking to him about his “business” (a... It’s power talk Friday again! I have a treat for all of you today. I found our guest, John Muldoon while I was doing research, and I got jazzed up when I saw what John is doing! We are going to be talking to him about his “business” (a consulting firm) that he has had for twelve years! But we are really going to get into his powerful blog called The Monthly Experiments Project. Show Notes: What is his description of his job and why are there two versions? How did he come up with his brand? What is his blog The Monthly Experiment about? How did he come up with his blog: The Monthly Experiment? Why is he doing his blog The Monthly Experiment? What happened when John finally found a balance between work and life? What did he do to help pick up the business when he started working less? How do you get more referrals according to John? How can you make your blog or podcast more successful and what is the most important quality a blog can have? How can you be more helpful? What are the two things that create the value of a blog? How do you start a blog and how does John help people with this? How do you join his blog challenge and join his free membership group? What are some of the “Experiments” he has done on his blog? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works It’s power talk Friday again! I have a treat for all of you today. I found our guest, John Muldoon while I was doing research, and I got jazzed up when I saw what John is doing! We are going to be talking to him about his “business” (a consulting firm) that he has had for twelve years! But we are really going to get into his powerful blog called The Monthly Experiments Project.

Show Notes:

  • What is his description of his job and why are there two versions?
  • How did he come up with his brand?
  • What is his blog The Monthly Experiment about?
  • How did he come up with his blog: The Monthly Experiment?
  • Why is he doing his blog The Monthly Experiment?
  • What happened when John finally found a balance between work and life?
  • What did he do to help pick up the business when he started working less?
  • How do you get more referrals according to John?
  • How can you make your blog or podcast more successful and what is the most important quality a blog can have?
  • How can you be more helpful?
  • What are the two things that create the value of a blog?
  • How do you start a blog and how does John help people with this?
  • How do you join his blog challenge and join his free membership group?
  • What are some of the “Experiments” he has done on his blog?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works

]]> 2885 no 98: Carrie Leskowitz - "Our Living Space Mirrors our Inner Space” http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/98-carrie-leskowitz-our-living-space-mirrors-our-inner-space Today on the show I have Carrie Leskowitz! Carrie brings a unique perspective to her work. She is not only an interior designer but she is also a certified Marth Beck life coach. Carrie combines her background in fashion and psychology with twenty years in the interior design industry. She shows her clients how our living space often mirrors our inner space. Her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings, is in its sixth year and has a very loyal following! Show Notes: How did Carrie come to interior design? What was her experience at Design Bloggers Conference? Why should you go to the Design Bloggers Conference? What are the requirements to qualify for the Design Bloggers Conference? How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held and where is the conference venue? Do you get paid or is there money involved going to the Design Bloggers Conference? What were her observations at the Design Bloggers Conference? What did Carrie do while at High Point at the Design Bloggers Conference? Why did she start her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings? What are the nuts and bolts of her business? How many employees does she have? How does she connect her life coach experience to her interior design business? When did she understand her value, and decide to start sending an invoice for her coaching? What are some typical triggers that people start to think they are stuck? Are there any tips that she would suggest to her clients to help them feel unstuck? Are there any cautions that she would say to a new designer getting started? Try everything! What is something she does herself when she feels overwhelmed? Can you retrain yourself on how to react to certain things or situations that bug you? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Wed, 09 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I have Carrie Leskowitz! Carrie brings a unique perspective to her work. She is not only an interior designer but she is also a certified Marth Beck life coach. Carrie combines her background in fashion and psychology with... Today on the show I have Carrie Leskowitz! Carrie brings a unique perspective to her work. She is not only an interior designer but she is also a certified Marth Beck life coach. Carrie combines her background in fashion and psychology with twenty years in the interior design industry. She shows her clients how our living space often mirrors our inner space. Her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings, is in its sixth year and has a very loyal following! Show Notes: How did Carrie come to interior design? What was her experience at Design Bloggers Conference? Why should you go to the Design Bloggers Conference? What are the requirements to qualify for the Design Bloggers Conference? How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held and where is the conference venue? Do you get paid or is there money involved going to the Design Bloggers Conference? What were her observations at the Design Bloggers Conference? What did Carrie do while at High Point at the Design Bloggers Conference? Why did she start her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings? What are the nuts and bolts of her business? How many employees does she have? How does she connect her life coach experience to her interior design business? When did she understand her value, and decide to start sending an invoice for her coaching? What are some typical triggers that people start to think they are stuck? Are there any tips that she would suggest to her clients to help them feel unstuck? Are there any cautions that she would say to a new designer getting started? Try everything! What is something she does herself when she feels overwhelmed? Can you retrain yourself on how to react to certain things or situations that bug you? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Today on the show I have Carrie Leskowitz! Carrie brings a unique perspective to her work. She is not only an interior designer but she is also a certified Marth Beck life coach. Carrie combines her background in fashion and psychology with twenty years in the interior design industry. She shows her clients how our living space often mirrors our inner space. Her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings, is in its sixth year and has a very loyal following!

Show Notes:

  • How did Carrie come to interior design?
  • What was her experience at Design Bloggers Conference?
  • Why should you go to the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What are the requirements to qualify for the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held and where is the conference venue?
  • Do you get paid or is there money involved going to the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What were her observations at the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What did Carrie do while at High Point at the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • Why did she start her blog: Carrie’s Design Musings?
  • What are the nuts and bolts of her business?
  • How many employees does she have?
  • How does she connect her life coach experience to her interior design business?
  • When did she understand her value, and decide to start sending an invoice for her coaching?
  • What are some typical triggers that people start to think they are stuck?
  • Are there any tips that she would suggest to her clients to help them feel unstuck?
  • Are there any cautions that she would say to a new designer getting started?
  • Try everything!
  • What is something she does herself when she feels overwhelmed?
  • Can you retrain yourself on how to react to certain things or situations that bug you?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 3630 no 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/97-linda-holt-from-professional-photographer-to-interior-designer-and-accomplished-blogger Our guest today on the show is Linda Holt! Linda was recommended to me by a listener of the podcast! Thank you, Marie! She suggested Linda because she admires her work and she loves the interesting bit that she comes from a twenty-year career in photography and she specializes in modeling and celebrity head shots. Linda has worked with more than 3000 celebrities, actors and models as one of Boston’s top headshot photographer. So today she is going to talk to us about why she made the switch from photography to interior design. Show Notes: What degree did she earn first in college? Why didn’t Linda get a degree in interior design when she went to college? What niche made her so successful in photography? How did she arrive at her systems that she used in her photography business? Why is it important to pay attention to personal details and remember them with clients? How does she use Pinterest and Pinterest Boards for her business? How does she bill for her work and what are the factors that determine the way she bills? Does she talk to her clients up front about money or as she goes? What are the “two hours”? Why did she start her blog Linda Holt Interiors? How often does she blog and how “big” is her blog? How does she write and how does she figure out what to write about? Does she read other blogs or listen to other podcasts? What happened to her when she was at the Design Bloggers Conference? How does she help designers use their iPhones to take better pictures? What did Linda win at the Design Bloggers Conference? What sort of things did she learn from the Design Bloggers Conference? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Mon, 07 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Our guest today on the show is Linda Holt! Linda was recommended to me by a listener of the podcast! Thank you, Marie! She suggested Linda because she admires her work and she loves the interesting bit that she comes from a twenty-year career in... Our guest today on the show is Linda Holt! Linda was recommended to me by a listener of the podcast! Thank you, Marie! She suggested Linda because she admires her work and she loves the interesting bit that she comes from a twenty-year career in photography and she specializes in modeling and celebrity head shots. Linda has worked with more than 3000 celebrities, actors and models as one of Boston’s top headshot photographer. So today she is going to talk to us about why she made the switch from photography to interior design. Show Notes: What degree did she earn first in college? Why didn’t Linda get a degree in interior design when she went to college? What niche made her so successful in photography? How did she arrive at her systems that she used in her photography business? Why is it important to pay attention to personal details and remember them with clients? How does she use Pinterest and Pinterest Boards for her business? How does she bill for her work and what are the factors that determine the way she bills? Does she talk to her clients up front about money or as she goes? What are the “two hours”? Why did she start her blog Linda Holt Interiors? How often does she blog and how “big” is her blog? How does she write and how does she figure out what to write about? Does she read other blogs or listen to other podcasts? What happened to her when she was at the Design Bloggers Conference? How does she help designers use their iPhones to take better pictures? What did Linda win at the Design Bloggers Conference? What sort of things did she learn from the Design Bloggers Conference? The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works. Our guest today on the show is Linda Holt! Linda was recommended to me by a listener of the podcast! Thank you, Marie! She suggested Linda because she admires her work and she loves the interesting bit that she comes from a twenty-year career in photography and she specializes in modeling and celebrity head shots. Linda has worked with more than 3000 celebrities, actors and models as one of Boston’s top headshot photographer. So today she is going to talk to us about why she made the switch from photography to interior design.

Show Notes:

  • What degree did she earn first in college?
  • Why didn’t Linda get a degree in interior design when she went to college?
  • What niche made her so successful in photography?
  • How did she arrive at her systems that she used in her photography business?
  • Why is it important to pay attention to personal details and remember them with clients?
  • How does she use Pinterest and Pinterest Boards for her business?
  • How does she bill for her work and what are the factors that determine the way she bills?
  • Does she talk to her clients up front about money or as she goes?
  • What are the “two hours”?
  • Why did she start her blog Linda Holt Interiors?
  • How often does she blog and how “big” is her blog?
  • How does she write and how does she figure out what to write about?
  • Does she read other blogs or listen to other podcasts?
  • What happened to her when she was at the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • How does she help designers use their iPhones to take better pictures?
  • What did Linda win at the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What sort of things did she learn from the Design Bloggers Conference?

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works.

]]> 4114 no 96: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns - Selling Methods of the Masters http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/96-power-talk-friday-fred-berns-selling-methods-of-the-masters We are back with another power talk Friday and we have Fred Berns with us again! As you know Fred Berns has been on the show two other times. We have talked about our bio briefing, our website once over because Fred is a leader in the interior design business coaching arena. He has twenty-five years of experience specializing in helping interior designers grow their interior design firms through more effective websites, more effective programs,  and more effective introductions and bios. Today we are going to talk about selling methods of the masters. Show Notes: What do financially successful firms have in common? What is the “daily dozen” and how is this helpful to your business? What is saving the best for first and how does it work? What is the number one financial obstacle for designer firms? Treat obstacles as opportunities! What are closing questions and how can they help close a sale? Always talk about a phase two before you talk about phase one! How do you make sure there is “no money left on the table”? What does it mean to have money left on the table and why is it bad? How should a new designer start marketing? What is one thing people can’t get anywhere else? Pay attention to what clients had a problem with in previous transactions! What are common mistakes designers make when selling their services? What is feel, felt, found? How can you use a blog as a good selling tool? What is the best personal tool to use when trying to “sell yourself”? How can you adapt your bio with Fred Bern’s knowledge that he has shared with us? Download the free resources from Fred Berns from our resource center: Window Works  Fri, 04 Nov 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We are back with another power talk Friday and we have Fred Berns with us again! As you know Fred Berns has been on the show two other times. We have talked about our bio briefing, our website once over because Fred is a leader in the interior design... We are back with another power talk Friday and we have Fred Berns with us again! As you know Fred Berns has been on the show two other times. We have talked about our bio briefing, our website once over because Fred is a leader in the interior design business coaching arena. He has twenty-five years of experience specializing in helping interior designers grow their interior design firms through more effective websites, more effective programs,  and more effective introductions and bios. Today we are going to talk about selling methods of the masters. Show Notes: What do financially successful firms have in common? What is the “daily dozen” and how is this helpful to your business? What is saving the best for first and how does it work? What is the number one financial obstacle for designer firms? Treat obstacles as opportunities! What are closing questions and how can they help close a sale? Always talk about a phase two before you talk about phase one! How do you make sure there is “no money left on the table”? What does it mean to have money left on the table and why is it bad? How should a new designer start marketing? What is one thing people can’t get anywhere else? Pay attention to what clients had a problem with in previous transactions! What are common mistakes designers make when selling their services? What is feel, felt, found? How can you use a blog as a good selling tool? What is the best personal tool to use when trying to “sell yourself”? How can you adapt your bio with Fred Bern’s knowledge that he has shared with us? Download the free resources from Fred Berns from our resource center: Window Works  We are back with another power talk Friday and we have Fred Berns with us again! As you know Fred Berns has been on the show two other times. We have talked about our bio briefing, our website once over because Fred is a leader in the interior design business coaching arena. He has twenty-five years of experience specializing in helping interior designers grow their interior design firms through more effective websites, more effective programs,  and more effective introductions and bios. Today we are going to talk about selling methods of the masters.

Show Notes:

  • What do financially successful firms have in common?
  • What is the “daily dozen” and how is this helpful to your business?
  • What is saving the best for first and how does it work?
  • What is the number one financial obstacle for designer firms?
  • Treat obstacles as opportunities!
  • What are closing questions and how can they help close a sale?
  • Always talk about a phase two before you talk about phase one!
  • How do you make sure there is “no money left on the table”?
  • What does it mean to have money left on the table and why is it bad?
  • How should a new designer start marketing?
  • What is one thing people can’t get anywhere else?
  • Pay attention to what clients had a problem with in previous transactions!
  • What are common mistakes designers make when selling their services?
  • What is feel, felt, found?
  • How can you use a blog as a good selling tool?
  • What is the best personal tool to use when trying to “sell yourself”?
  • How can you adapt your bio with Fred Bern’s knowledge that he has shared with us?

Download the free resources from Fred Berns from our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 2622 no 95: Adam Japko- Founder & CEO of Esteem Media, Organizer of The Design Bloggers Conference, and How He Creates Value for His Clients http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/95-adam-japko-founder-ceo-of-esteem-media-organizer-of-the-design-bloggers-conference-and-how-he-creates-value-for-his-clients Today I have someone whom I’m sure many of you are familiar with his businesses or platforms. You have probably heard of at least one of them and maybe you know Adam Japko through one of these. He is the founder and CEO of Esteem Media but prior to Esteem Media he was the president of DigitalSherpa. Esteem Media is the home of leading national and local media brands that specialize in luxury home design and fine wine. Through Adam Japko, Esteem Media leads the industry in community and initiatives that help business professionals just like you navigate the shift between traditional and digital media. Adam also has a wine blog called WineZag. I hope you enjoy this interview with Adam Japko as he talks about his business Esteem Media and all about the Design Bloggers Conference! Show Notes: Where does the commerce happen? How did Adam come up with the model he uses in his businesses? What extra value does Adam put into his work? What is the Design Bloggers Conference? Why did Adam launch the Design Bloggers Conference? What are keynote designers? What three groups are used to design the outcome of the Design Bloggers Conference? Is it just designers who come to the Design Bloggers Conference? What things can you learn by coming to these conferences? How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held? Who will be the speaker at the next Design Bloggers Conference? What makes the Design Bloggers Conference different from other conferences? In what ways does the Design Bloggers Conference make connections that people will never forget,  and how does it  branch out to people? How are these connections made different? Bring your values to your work! Don’t bring a work version of yourself to work! How you get the most out of your life. You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:   Window Works.  Wed, 02 Nov 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today I have someone whom I’m sure many of you are familiar with his businesses or platforms. You have probably heard of at least one of them and maybe you know Adam Japko through one of these. He is the founder and CEO of Esteem Media but prior to... Today I have someone whom I’m sure many of you are familiar with his businesses or platforms. You have probably heard of at least one of them and maybe you know Adam Japko through one of these. He is the founder and CEO of Esteem Media but prior to Esteem Media he was the president of DigitalSherpa. Esteem Media is the home of leading national and local media brands that specialize in luxury home design and fine wine. Through Adam Japko, Esteem Media leads the industry in community and initiatives that help business professionals just like you navigate the shift between traditional and digital media. Adam also has a wine blog called WineZag. I hope you enjoy this interview with Adam Japko as he talks about his business Esteem Media and all about the Design Bloggers Conference! Show Notes: Where does the commerce happen? How did Adam come up with the model he uses in his businesses? What extra value does Adam put into his work? What is the Design Bloggers Conference? Why did Adam launch the Design Bloggers Conference? What are keynote designers? What three groups are used to design the outcome of the Design Bloggers Conference? Is it just designers who come to the Design Bloggers Conference? What things can you learn by coming to these conferences? How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held? Who will be the speaker at the next Design Bloggers Conference? What makes the Design Bloggers Conference different from other conferences? In what ways does the Design Bloggers Conference make connections that people will never forget,  and how does it  branch out to people? How are these connections made different? Bring your values to your work! Don’t bring a work version of yourself to work! How you get the most out of your life. You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:   Window Works.  Today I have someone whom I’m sure many of you are familiar with his businesses or platforms. You have probably heard of at least one of them and maybe you know Adam Japko through one of these. He is the founder and CEO of Esteem Media but prior to Esteem Media he was the president of DigitalSherpa. Esteem Media is the home of leading national and local media brands that specialize in luxury home design and fine wine. Through Adam Japko, Esteem Media leads the industry in community and initiatives that help business professionals just like you navigate the shift between traditional and digital media. Adam also has a wine blog called WineZag. I hope you enjoy this interview with Adam Japko as he talks about his business Esteem Media and all about the Design Bloggers Conference!

Show Notes:

  • Where does the commerce happen?
  • How did Adam come up with the model he uses in his businesses?
  • What extra value does Adam put into his work?
  • What is the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • Why did Adam launch the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What are keynote designers?
  • What three groups are used to design the outcome of the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • Is it just designers who come to the Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What things can you learn by coming to these conferences?
  • How often is the Design Bloggers Conference held?
  • Who will be the speaker at the next Design Bloggers Conference?
  • What makes the Design Bloggers Conference different from other conferences?
  • In what ways does the Design Bloggers Conference make connections that people will never forget,  and how does it  branch out to people?
  • How are these connections made different?
  • Bring your values to your work!
  • Don’t bring a work version of yourself to work!
  • How you get the most out of your life.

You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:   Window Works. 

]]> 4010 no 94: Debi Pinelli- Sound Advice on the Business of Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/94-debi-pinelli-sound-advice-to-the-business-of-interior-design Our guest on today’s show is Debi Pinelli and the way we got connected is such a funny story! I have a very dear friend named Rachel who is the cousin of Debi’s husband! A few months ago, we had Tim Templeton on a power talk Friday show and he was talking to us about influencers and connectors that you will have in your circle of influencers. Rachel is that connector! Today we are going to talk about Debi’s business, A&J Interiors. She came to interior design through her specialty in designing her own window treatments. Debi has been designing and fabricating window treatments for over 20 years! She is the president of the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America. Show Notes: How did she decide to make her window treatments into a business? How important is it to have good rapport with your vendor? What are some things that she did when she started to become successful? What are some ways you can reach out to others for help in running a business? Who does she have on her staff? Write procedures down! Why are bookkeepers so important to running a successful business? Where does she go to get inspiration for designs? Is Highpoint worth going to? Make sure you look at your numbers! What are some ways to look at advertising? Why did she join Window Coverings Association of America? What is “Windows to Success”? What does the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America do? Does the New Jersey chapter just talk about window coverings? How often should an evaluation be done? Why did she decide to charge a flat fee for her services? Listen to your gut! How many chapters are in the Window Coverings Association of America? You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:  Window Works. Mon, 31 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Our guest on today’s show is Debi Pinelli and the way we got connected is such a funny story! I have a very dear friend named Rachel who is the cousin of Debi’s husband! A few months ago, we had Tim Templeton on a power talk Friday show and he was... Our guest on today’s show is Debi Pinelli and the way we got connected is such a funny story! I have a very dear friend named Rachel who is the cousin of Debi’s husband! A few months ago, we had Tim Templeton on a power talk Friday show and he was talking to us about influencers and connectors that you will have in your circle of influencers. Rachel is that connector! Today we are going to talk about Debi’s business, A&J Interiors. She came to interior design through her specialty in designing her own window treatments. Debi has been designing and fabricating window treatments for over 20 years! She is the president of the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America. Show Notes: How did she decide to make her window treatments into a business? How important is it to have good rapport with your vendor? What are some things that she did when she started to become successful? What are some ways you can reach out to others for help in running a business? Who does she have on her staff? Write procedures down! Why are bookkeepers so important to running a successful business? Where does she go to get inspiration for designs? Is Highpoint worth going to? Make sure you look at your numbers! What are some ways to look at advertising? Why did she join Window Coverings Association of America? What is “Windows to Success”? What does the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America do? Does the New Jersey chapter just talk about window coverings? How often should an evaluation be done? Why did she decide to charge a flat fee for her services? Listen to your gut! How many chapters are in the Window Coverings Association of America? You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:  Window Works. Our guest on today’s show is Debi Pinelli and the way we got connected is such a funny story! I have a very dear friend named Rachel who is the cousin of Debi’s husband! A few months ago, we had Tim Templeton on a power talk Friday show and he was talking to us about influencers and connectors that you will have in your circle of influencers. Rachel is that connector!

Today we are going to talk about Debi’s business, A&J Interiors. She came to interior design through her specialty in designing her own window treatments. Debi has been designing and fabricating window treatments for over 20 years! She is the president of the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America.

Show Notes:

  • How did she decide to make her window treatments into a business?
  • How important is it to have good rapport with your vendor?
  • What are some things that she did when she started to become successful?
  • What are some ways you can reach out to others for help in running a business?
  • Who does she have on her staff?
  • Write procedures down!
  • Why are bookkeepers so important to running a successful business?
  • Where does she go to get inspiration for designs?
  • Is Highpoint worth going to?
  • Make sure you look at your numbers!
  • What are some ways to look at advertising?
  • Why did she join Window Coverings Association of America?
  • What is “Windows to Success”?
  • What does the New Jersey chapter of Window Coverings Association of America do?
  • Does the New Jersey chapter just talk about window coverings?
  • How often should an evaluation be done?
  • Why did she decide to charge a flat fee for her services?
  • Listen to your gut!
  • How many chapters are in the Window Coverings Association of America?

You will find the rest of the show notes  at our resource center:  Window Works.

]]> 4158 no 93: Power Talk Friday- Stacey Brown Randall- How To Create an Awesome Client Experience! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/93-power-talk-friday-stacey-brown-randall-how-to-create-an-awesome-client-experience Welcome back to power talk Friday! I am so happy that Stacy Brown Randall is back here with us today! Stacy was with us a couple of weeks ago. She talked about organization and how to make your business more effective and gave us lots of tips and specific details. One of the things she talks about is how she coaches us and organizes our business into quads. We talked a little bit about the details last time but today we are going a little deeper into each of the quads. We are really going to pick apart Stacy’s advice on how we maximize and take control of our client’s experience. Show Notes: What does it mean to take control of your client’s experience? What are the four quads for the four- quad strategy? “What is it like to work with you?” How should you look at the customer’s experience? What is a “sticky” client experience and why should you strive to have it? What are work touch points and why should you have them? What four things come from having sticky clients? What is a client’s experience? Why should you unpack a client’s experience? Why do you need a work output list? Where do you build the relationship with the client? What are the differences between a work touch-point and a personal touch-point? What is buyer’s remorse? How can you prevent clients from having buyer’s remorse? What is a journey card and why is a journey card so important? How can a journey card change the relationship between you and your client? What is the new client phase and what is an alumni client? How long does a new client phase last? Write things on a calendar and do those things! How can you reconnect with your clients? See the rest of the show notes at our resource center: Window Works Fri, 28 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to power talk Friday! I am so happy that Stacy Brown Randall is back here with us today! Stacy was with us a couple of weeks ago. She talked about organization and how to make your business more effective and gave us lots of tips and... Welcome back to power talk Friday! I am so happy that Stacy Brown Randall is back here with us today! Stacy was with us a couple of weeks ago. She talked about organization and how to make your business more effective and gave us lots of tips and specific details. One of the things she talks about is how she coaches us and organizes our business into quads. We talked a little bit about the details last time but today we are going a little deeper into each of the quads. We are really going to pick apart Stacy’s advice on how we maximize and take control of our client’s experience. Show Notes: What does it mean to take control of your client’s experience? What are the four quads for the four- quad strategy? “What is it like to work with you?” How should you look at the customer’s experience? What is a “sticky” client experience and why should you strive to have it? What are work touch points and why should you have them? What four things come from having sticky clients? What is a client’s experience? Why should you unpack a client’s experience? Why do you need a work output list? Where do you build the relationship with the client? What are the differences between a work touch-point and a personal touch-point? What is buyer’s remorse? How can you prevent clients from having buyer’s remorse? What is a journey card and why is a journey card so important? How can a journey card change the relationship between you and your client? What is the new client phase and what is an alumni client? How long does a new client phase last? Write things on a calendar and do those things! How can you reconnect with your clients? See the rest of the show notes at our resource center: Window Works Welcome back to power talk Friday! I am so happy that Stacy Brown Randall is back here with us today! Stacy was with us a couple of weeks ago. She talked about organization and how to make your business more effective and gave us lots of tips and specific details. One of the things she talks about is how she coaches us and organizes our business into quads. We talked a little bit about the details last time but today we are going a little deeper into each of the quads. We are really going to pick apart Stacy’s advice on how we maximize and take control of our client’s experience.

Show Notes:

  • What does it mean to take control of your client’s experience?
  • What are the four quads for the four- quad strategy?
  • “What is it like to work with you?”
  • How should you look at the customer’s experience?
  • What is a “sticky” client experience and why should you strive to have it?
  • What are work touch points and why should you have them?
  • What four things come from having sticky clients?
  • What is a client’s experience?
  • Why should you unpack a client’s experience?
  • Why do you need a work output list?
  • Where do you build the relationship with the client?
  • What are the differences between a work touch-point and a personal touch-point?
  • What is buyer’s remorse?
  • How can you prevent clients from having buyer’s remorse?
  • What is a journey card and why is a journey card so important?
  • How can a journey card change the relationship between you and your client?
  • What is the new client phase and what is an alumni client?
  • How long does a new client phase last?
  • Write things on a calendar and do those things!
  • How can you reconnect with your clients?

See the rest of the show notes at our

resource center: Window Works

]]> 2254 no 92: Karen McKenna - Designing a Creative Collaboration with a Retail Furniture Store http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/92-karen-mckenna-designing-a-creative-collaboration-with-a-retail-furniture-store On the show today I’m happy to have Karen McKenna: the principal of KMCK Designs in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Karen has been in the interior design industry for over 21 years. In addition to running her own firm, she is the principal interior designer for Classic Interiors, a retail showroom in Idaho Falls also. Karen studied interior design and architecture and earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Idaho. She has extensive experience in both commercial and residential interior design. Karen also acts as a buyer and a merchandise coordinator for Classic Interiors. The way Karen has positioned her firm and aligned it with the retail store Classic Interiors is rather unique. I’m going to let Karen explain it to you. Let’s see what you think! Show Notes: How did Karen come to work with KMCK Designs and Classic Interiors? Who are Mark Collard and Mike Jensen and what is their relationship to Karen? How does her relationship with the designer’s work? What is her payoff? What is the process for the quotation of products for a project? How does the bidding process work with the team she works with at KMCK Designs? Has she ever come across the relationship like she has with KMCK Designs anywhere else? How does the market experience happen? Why is loyalty to vendors so important? What sort of markets are they involved in? Are they using markets in Europe? What systems does she use to keep everything organized? Make sure to have documentation on what everyone is doing and has been said on every project! How do you maintain a good relationship with vendors? Is this process something that someone new to the business should start with or should this be done by someone who has been in the business for a while? The rest of the show notes is in our resource center:  Window Works Wed, 26 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today I’m happy to have Karen McKenna: the principal of KMCK Designs in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Karen has been in the interior design industry for over 21 years. In addition to running her own firm, she is the principal interior designer for... On the show today I’m happy to have Karen McKenna: the principal of KMCK Designs in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Karen has been in the interior design industry for over 21 years. In addition to running her own firm, she is the principal interior designer for Classic Interiors, a retail showroom in Idaho Falls also. Karen studied interior design and architecture and earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Idaho. She has extensive experience in both commercial and residential interior design. Karen also acts as a buyer and a merchandise coordinator for Classic Interiors. The way Karen has positioned her firm and aligned it with the retail store Classic Interiors is rather unique. I’m going to let Karen explain it to you. Let’s see what you think! Show Notes: How did Karen come to work with KMCK Designs and Classic Interiors? Who are Mark Collard and Mike Jensen and what is their relationship to Karen? How does her relationship with the designer’s work? What is her payoff? What is the process for the quotation of products for a project? How does the bidding process work with the team she works with at KMCK Designs? Has she ever come across the relationship like she has with KMCK Designs anywhere else? How does the market experience happen? Why is loyalty to vendors so important? What sort of markets are they involved in? Are they using markets in Europe? What systems does she use to keep everything organized? Make sure to have documentation on what everyone is doing and has been said on every project! How do you maintain a good relationship with vendors? Is this process something that someone new to the business should start with or should this be done by someone who has been in the business for a while? The rest of the show notes is in our resource center:  Window Works On the show today I’m happy to have Karen McKenna: the principal of KMCK Designs in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Karen has been in the interior design industry for over 21 years. In addition to running her own firm, she is the principal interior designer for Classic Interiors, a retail showroom in Idaho Falls also. Karen studied interior design and architecture and earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Idaho. She has extensive experience in both commercial and residential interior design. Karen also acts as a buyer and a merchandise coordinator for Classic Interiors. The way Karen has positioned her firm and aligned it with the retail store Classic Interiors is rather unique. I’m going to let Karen explain it to you. Let’s see what you think!

Show Notes:

  • How did Karen come to work with KMCK Designs and Classic Interiors?
  • Who are Mark Collard and Mike Jensen and what is their relationship to Karen?
  • How does her relationship with the designer’s work?
  • What is her payoff?
  • What is the process for the quotation of products for a project?
  • How does the bidding process work with the team she works with at KMCK Designs?
  • Has she ever come across the relationship like she has with KMCK Designs anywhere else?
  • How does the market experience happen?
  • Why is loyalty to vendors so important?
  • What sort of markets are they involved in?
  • Are they using markets in Europe?
  • What systems does she use to keep everything organized?
  • Make sure to have documentation on what everyone is doing and has been said on every project!
  • How do you maintain a good relationship with vendors?
  • Is this process something that someone new to the business should start with or should this be done by someone who has been in the business for a while?

The rest of the show notes is in our resource center:  Window Works

]]> 3624 no 91: Sarah Daniele - Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/91-sarah-daniele-co-founder-ceo-of-mydoma-studio On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career. Show Notes: When did Sarah start her new software? What were her guidelines for her new software system? Was her software originally for other designers? When did she decide to let other designers use her program? What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers? How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself? How did she build her beta team to test the new product? Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software? Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from? How did she decide the “look” of her website? What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio? What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients? What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio? What is a product catalog builder? What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global? How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio? Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished? How are the invoices incorporated in the program? Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client? What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio? How are the fees decided? For the rest of the shownotes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  Mon, 24 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and... On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career. Show Notes: When did Sarah start her new software? What were her guidelines for her new software system? Was her software originally for other designers? When did she decide to let other designers use her program? What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers? How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself? How did she build her beta team to test the new product? Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software? Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from? How did she decide the “look” of her website? What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio? What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients? What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio? What is a product catalog builder? What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global? How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio? Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished? How are the invoices incorporated in the program? Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client? What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio? How are the fees decided? For the rest of the shownotes, please visit our resource center: Window Works  On the show today you are going to meet Sarah Daniele! Sarah was recommended to me by a previous guest and my friend, Rachel Moriarty. So, who is Sarah Daniele? She is a very smart, take- the- bull- by- the- horns type person, interior designer and also happens to be the co-founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio!  Sarah has a degree in interior design, has worked for others and then eventually started her own business, Mydoma Studio. Her business focuses on residential renovations, add-ons, kitchen, and bath. Today she is going to share with us a little about her career.

Show Notes:

  • When did Sarah start her new software?
  • What were her guidelines for her new software system?
  • Was her software originally for other designers?
  • When did she decide to let other designers use her program?
  • What changes were made to her software program to fit other designers?
  • How did she know that other designers would need a different program than herself?
  • How did she build her beta team to test the new product?
  • Is Mydoma Studio an accounting software?
  • Where did the name Mydoma Studio come from?
  • How did she decide the “look” of her website?
  • What is the usability of Mydoma  Studio?
  • What is Mydoma Studio and what can it help designers do with clients?
  • What is the process to sign up for Sarah’s program on Mydoma Studio?
  • What is a product catalog builder?
  • What does it mean when the product catalog builder is global?
  • How does a designer get the client on board using Mydoma Studio?
  • Would the client still have access to their studio after the project is finished?
  • How are the invoices incorporated in the program?
  • Is there a way for the designer to view the project like they are the client?
  • What is the targeted audience for Mydoma Studio?
  • How are the fees decided?

For the rest of the shownotes, please visit our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 4102 no 90: Power Talk Friday: Business Building Rockstar Summit with Nicole Holland http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/90-power-talk-friday-business-building-rockstar-summit-with-nicole-holland Welcome to another power talk Friday! Nicole Holland is on the show today and she is part of the Business Building Rockstar Show! This is another podcast that is one of my favorites and let’s face it Nicole is a rockstar! She is out there trying to help other people create bigger and better businesses for themselves. She is a master coach and marketing strategist. Nicole is launching on November 1st a summit for The Business Building Rockstar. What is a summit? Listen to this episode and find out. Show Notes: What is a summit in podcast terms? What is the summit that Nicole is launching on November 1st going to be about? What is the difference in what you are “supposed” to do and what you “should” do when starting a business? How can social media be valuable to your business? What are some tools she recommends and uses herself? Is this summit going to be free? What are some special deals you can get when you upgrade? What are some of the topics that are going to be discussed on The Business Building Rockstar Summit? What is Nicole’s mission in life? How does Nicole incorporate her mission in life and making a dollar together? How can each session be accessed during The Business Building Rockstar Summit? Why do you want an all access pass for this summit? Why did Nicole decide to launch her podcast: The Business Building Rockstar Show? How many topics will be discussed on this summit? How much of a discount does this summit give on certain programs? How did Nicole get so many bonuses for her new launch that starts on November 1st? How can this summit help interior designers with their businesses to make their businesses bigger and known more? Resources: www.bbrshow.com/podcast www.bbrsummit.com/design www.acuityscheduling.com www.bbrshow.com/sessions  You can download the Nicole Holland Business Building Rockstar PDF  and get the Ticket to the free Summit at our resource center:  Window Works   Fri, 21 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another power talk Friday! Nicole Holland is on the show today and she is part of the Business Building Rockstar Show! This is another podcast that is one of my favorites and let’s face it Nicole is a rockstar! She is out there trying to... Welcome to another power talk Friday! Nicole Holland is on the show today and she is part of the Business Building Rockstar Show! This is another podcast that is one of my favorites and let’s face it Nicole is a rockstar! She is out there trying to help other people create bigger and better businesses for themselves. She is a master coach and marketing strategist. Nicole is launching on November 1st a summit for The Business Building Rockstar. What is a summit? Listen to this episode and find out. Show Notes: What is a summit in podcast terms? What is the summit that Nicole is launching on November 1st going to be about? What is the difference in what you are “supposed” to do and what you “should” do when starting a business? How can social media be valuable to your business? What are some tools she recommends and uses herself? Is this summit going to be free? What are some special deals you can get when you upgrade? What are some of the topics that are going to be discussed on The Business Building Rockstar Summit? What is Nicole’s mission in life? How does Nicole incorporate her mission in life and making a dollar together? How can each session be accessed during The Business Building Rockstar Summit? Why do you want an all access pass for this summit? Why did Nicole decide to launch her podcast: The Business Building Rockstar Show? How many topics will be discussed on this summit? How much of a discount does this summit give on certain programs? How did Nicole get so many bonuses for her new launch that starts on November 1st? How can this summit help interior designers with their businesses to make their businesses bigger and known more? Resources: www.bbrshow.com/podcast www.bbrsummit.com/design www.acuityscheduling.com www.bbrshow.com/sessions  You can download the Nicole Holland Business Building Rockstar PDF  and get the Ticket to the free Summit at our resource center:  Window Works   Welcome to another power talk Friday! Nicole Holland is on the show today and she is part of the Business Building Rockstar Show! This is another podcast that is one of my favorites and let’s face it Nicole is a rockstar! She is out there trying to help other people create bigger and better businesses for themselves. She is a master coach and marketing strategist. Nicole is launching on November 1st a summit for The Business Building Rockstar. What is a summit? Listen to this episode and find out.


Show Notes:

  • What is a summit in podcast terms?
  • What is the summit that Nicole is launching on November 1st going to be about?
  • What is the difference in what you are “supposed” to do and what you “should” do when starting a business?
  • How can social media be valuable to your business?
  • What are some tools she recommends and uses herself?
  • Is this summit going to be free?
  • What are some special deals you can get when you upgrade?
  • What are some of the topics that are going to be discussed on The Business Building Rockstar Summit?
  • What is Nicole’s mission in life?
  • How does Nicole incorporate her mission in life and making a dollar together?
  • How can each session be accessed during The Business Building Rockstar Summit?
  • Why do you want an all access pass for this summit?
  • Why did Nicole decide to launch her podcast: The Business Building Rockstar Show?
  • How many topics will be discussed on this summit?
  • How much of a discount does this summit give on certain programs?
  • How did Nicole get so many bonuses for her new launch that starts on November 1st?
  • How can this summit help interior designers with their businesses to make their businesses bigger and known more?

Resources:

www.bbrshow.com/podcast

www.bbrsummit.com/design

www.acuityscheduling.com

www.bbrshow.com/sessions 

You can download the Nicole Holland Business Building Rockstar PDF  and get the Ticket to the free Summit at our resource center:  Window Works

 

]]> 2041 no 89: Marie Flanigan - How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/89-marie-flanigan-how-marketing-strategies-helped-her-grow-her-firm I have Marie Flanigan from Texas with me on the show today! Marie is an award winning designer whose background includes a BA in Architecture and Masters in Business Administration. She has over a decade of work experience in architecture and design industry and you can see how she uses these qualities beautifully in her work. While working with a previous firm she realized her love for architecture and interiors together. She quickly realized how she can achieve more in-depth creativity when the two are intertwined. Her trademark style is evident with the sophisticated texture, color, light and creating environments that people love to live in. Her distinguished designs can be found in luxury homes and commercial spaces throughout the country. Today we are going to talk about Marie’s marketing strategies and how they have worked for her and how they can work for you too!   Show Notes: What is her marketing philosophy? What are the roots of her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors? What are some of the services her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors has to offer? What is her advice to someone starting out? How can designers make it easier to relate their designs? What are some ways that her team uses to relate their designs? How do you keep your brand consistent? How does her team finish up a project? What is the most important part of a project? Pictures are your assets! When did she decide to use videos for marketing? How did Marie find someone who knew how to use videos for marketing? How long does it take to make these videos? What is her advice on how to find a good videographer? How do you pick the music for the videos? Look for more ways to create an experience for the client! Are business retreats a good idea?   Please visit our resource center: Window Works for the rest of the show notes.    Wed, 19 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I have Marie Flanigan from Texas with me on the show today! Marie is an award winning designer whose background includes a BA in Architecture and Masters in Business Administration. She has over a decade of work experience in architecture and... I have Marie Flanigan from Texas with me on the show today! Marie is an award winning designer whose background includes a BA in Architecture and Masters in Business Administration. She has over a decade of work experience in architecture and design industry and you can see how she uses these qualities beautifully in her work. While working with a previous firm she realized her love for architecture and interiors together. She quickly realized how she can achieve more in-depth creativity when the two are intertwined. Her trademark style is evident with the sophisticated texture, color, light and creating environments that people love to live in. Her distinguished designs can be found in luxury homes and commercial spaces throughout the country. Today we are going to talk about Marie’s marketing strategies and how they have worked for her and how they can work for you too!   Show Notes: What is her marketing philosophy? What are the roots of her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors? What are some of the services her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors has to offer? What is her advice to someone starting out? How can designers make it easier to relate their designs? What are some ways that her team uses to relate their designs? How do you keep your brand consistent? How does her team finish up a project? What is the most important part of a project? Pictures are your assets! When did she decide to use videos for marketing? How did Marie find someone who knew how to use videos for marketing? How long does it take to make these videos? What is her advice on how to find a good videographer? How do you pick the music for the videos? Look for more ways to create an experience for the client! Are business retreats a good idea?   Please visit our resource center: Window Works for the rest of the show notes.    I have Marie Flanigan from Texas with me on the show today! Marie is an award winning designer whose background includes a BA in Architecture and Masters in Business Administration. She has over a decade of work experience in architecture and design industry and you can see how she uses these qualities beautifully in her work. While working with a previous firm she realized her love for architecture and interiors together. She quickly realized how she can achieve more in-depth creativity when the two are intertwined. Her trademark style is evident with the sophisticated texture, color, light and creating environments that people love to live in. Her distinguished designs can be found in luxury homes and commercial spaces throughout the country. Today we are going to talk about Marie’s marketing strategies and how they have worked for her and how they can work for you too!

 

Show Notes:

  • What is her marketing philosophy?
  • What are the roots of her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors?
  • What are some of the services her business, Marie Flanigan Interiors has to offer?
  • What is her advice to someone starting out?
  • How can designers make it easier to relate their designs?
  • What are some ways that her team uses to relate their designs?
  • How do you keep your brand consistent?
  • How does her team finish up a project?
  • What is the most important part of a project?
  • Pictures are your assets!
  • When did she decide to use videos for marketing?
  • How did Marie find someone who knew how to use videos for marketing?
  • How long does it take to make these videos?
  • What is her advice on how to find a good videographer?
  • How do you pick the music for the videos?
  • Look for more ways to create an experience for the client!
  • Are business retreats a good idea?

 

Please visit our resource center: Window Works for the rest of the show notes. 

 

]]> 3353 no 88: Polly Williams – Camberyard, The Designer’s Advisor http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/88-polly-williams-camberyard-the-designers-advisor On the show today I’m happy for you to meet Polly Williams, the founder of Camberyard. The designer’s advisor! Polly offers bespoke interior design business solutions and mentoring to creative professionals across the industry. She can advise you what your USP, promote your talent and make your business reach its full potential. Her expertise includes launching new brands, streamlining and expanding your current business, mentoring designers, PR, brand partnerships, social media strategy, fee negotiations and making introductions within the industry. Polly has over 12 years of experience advising an interior design studio in London. Show Notes: What is Polly’s 360-degree approach? What are some of the first things she talks about when a designer wants to start their own firm? How does she help lay the foundation of a business? Has she ever had to tell someone maybe they need more experience before having their own business? What are some other ways she works with clients besides setting up the outline of the business? How are the packages set up for her mentoring services? How does she help her clients with time management? How does Polly help a designer figure out their unique selling point or USP? Does everyone have a unique selling point? How do you determine what is appropriate to put on social media? How does a designer figure out their brand? How are colors and fonts used to determine the message the business is trying to give? Why did Polly decide on the name Camberyard instead of Polly Williams Consulting? Does a business need to have a logo? Make sure to go out and network and plant your seed! What does Polly mean when she says think globally, act locally? Is Polly available to work with clients virtually?   For the rest of the show notes, please visit our  resource center:  Window Works  Mon, 17 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today I’m happy for you to meet Polly Williams, the founder of The designer’s advisor! Polly offers bespoke interior design business solutions and mentoring to creative professionals across the industry. She can advise you what your... On the show today I’m happy for you to meet Polly Williams, the founder of Camberyard. The designer’s advisor! Polly offers bespoke interior design business solutions and mentoring to creative professionals across the industry. She can advise you what your USP, promote your talent and make your business reach its full potential. Her expertise includes launching new brands, streamlining and expanding your current business, mentoring designers, PR, brand partnerships, social media strategy, fee negotiations and making introductions within the industry. Polly has over 12 years of experience advising an interior design studio in London. Show Notes: What is Polly’s 360-degree approach? What are some of the first things she talks about when a designer wants to start their own firm? How does she help lay the foundation of a business? Has she ever had to tell someone maybe they need more experience before having their own business? What are some other ways she works with clients besides setting up the outline of the business? How are the packages set up for her mentoring services? How does she help her clients with time management? How does Polly help a designer figure out their unique selling point or USP? Does everyone have a unique selling point? How do you determine what is appropriate to put on social media? How does a designer figure out their brand? How are colors and fonts used to determine the message the business is trying to give? Why did Polly decide on the name Camberyard instead of Polly Williams Consulting? Does a business need to have a logo? Make sure to go out and network and plant your seed! What does Polly mean when she says think globally, act locally? Is Polly available to work with clients virtually?   For the rest of the show notes, please visit our  resource center:  Window Works  On the show today I’m happy for you to meet Polly Williams, the founder of Camberyard. The designer’s advisor! Polly offers bespoke interior design business solutions and mentoring to creative professionals across the industry. She can advise you what your USP, promote your talent and make your business reach its full potential. Her expertise includes launching new brands, streamlining and expanding your current business, mentoring designers, PR, brand partnerships, social media strategy, fee negotiations and making introductions within the industry. Polly has over 12 years of experience advising an interior design studio in London.

Show Notes:

  • What is Polly’s 360-degree approach?
  • What are some of the first things she talks about when a designer wants to start their own firm?
  • How does she help lay the foundation of a business?
  • Has she ever had to tell someone maybe they need more experience before having their own business?
  • What are some other ways she works with clients besides setting up the outline of the business?
  • How are the packages set up for her mentoring services?
  • How does she help her clients with time management?
  • How does Polly help a designer figure out their unique selling point or USP?
  • Does everyone have a unique selling point?
  • How do you determine what is appropriate to put on social media?
  • How does a designer figure out their brand?
  • How are colors and fonts used to determine the message the business is trying to give?
  • Why did Polly decide on the name Camberyard instead of Polly Williams Consulting?
  • Does a business need to have a logo?
  • Make sure to go out and network and plant your seed!
  • What does Polly mean when she says think globally, act locally?
  • Is Polly available to work with clients virtually?

 

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our 

resource center:  Window Works 

]]> 4185 no 87: Power Talk Friday- Stacy Tuschl- Creator of the Business Rescue Roadmap http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/87-power-talk-friday-stacy-tuschl-creator-of-the-business-rescue-roadmap It’s time for another Power Talk Friday! Today on the show we have Stacy Tuschl! Stacy is a very accomplished young lady. She has a brick and mortar business in performing arts that is a seven figure business. The roots of her business started when she was eighteen years old from her parent’s backyard! She is also a real estate investor, the author of Is your Business Worth Saving? and the host of a podcast called The Business Rescue Roadmap. Stacy is going to talk to us about how she runs her business and give us some great tools and tips to use in our own businesses. Show Notes: How did she come up with the name of her book: Is Your Business Worth Saving? Why is it important for business owners to ask themselves is their business worth saving at certain times? What are some ways to keep money in the checkbook? How can business owners figure out the missing piece in their business keeping them from making more money? What is a mastermind group and where can they be found? What three people/group does she suggest having when running a business? Where and how does Stacy look to find different conferences to go to for new ideas? Where are some good places to get access for more information for free? What are some good tools to help with plan the day? Make sure to set goals! How is every department set up in her business? What are some tools Stacy uses for organization with her employees? Why is it so important to always take notes? Get out of your comfort zone and take risks! What is Business Rescue Road Map about? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works.   Fri, 14 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s time for another Power Talk Friday! Today on the show we have Stacy Tuschl! Stacy is a very accomplished young lady. She has a brick and mortar business in performing arts that is a seven figure business. The roots of her business started when... It’s time for another Power Talk Friday! Today on the show we have Stacy Tuschl! Stacy is a very accomplished young lady. She has a brick and mortar business in performing arts that is a seven figure business. The roots of her business started when she was eighteen years old from her parent’s backyard! She is also a real estate investor, the author of Is your Business Worth Saving? and the host of a podcast called The Business Rescue Roadmap. Stacy is going to talk to us about how she runs her business and give us some great tools and tips to use in our own businesses. Show Notes: How did she come up with the name of her book: Is Your Business Worth Saving? Why is it important for business owners to ask themselves is their business worth saving at certain times? What are some ways to keep money in the checkbook? How can business owners figure out the missing piece in their business keeping them from making more money? What is a mastermind group and where can they be found? What three people/group does she suggest having when running a business? Where and how does Stacy look to find different conferences to go to for new ideas? Where are some good places to get access for more information for free? What are some good tools to help with plan the day? Make sure to set goals! How is every department set up in her business? What are some tools Stacy uses for organization with her employees? Why is it so important to always take notes? Get out of your comfort zone and take risks! What is Business Rescue Road Map about? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works.   It’s time for another Power Talk Friday! Today on the show we have Stacy Tuschl! Stacy is a very accomplished young lady. She has a brick and mortar business in performing arts that is a seven figure business. The roots of her business started when she was eighteen years old from her parent’s backyard! She is also a real estate investor, the author of Is your Business Worth Saving? and the host of a podcast called The Business Rescue Roadmap. Stacy is going to talk to us about how she runs her business and give us some great tools and tips to use in our own businesses.

Show Notes:

  • How did she come up with the name of her book: Is Your Business Worth Saving?
  • Why is it important for business owners to ask themselves is their business worth saving at certain times?
  • What are some ways to keep money in the checkbook?
  • How can business owners figure out the missing piece in their business keeping them from making more money?
  • What is a mastermind group and where can they be found?
  • What three people/group does she suggest having when running a business?
  • Where and how does Stacy look to find different conferences to go to for new ideas?
  • Where are some good places to get access for more information for free?
  • What are some good tools to help with plan the day?
  • Make sure to set goals!
  • How is every department set up in her business?
  • What are some tools Stacy uses for organization with her employees?
  • Why is it so important to always take notes?
  • Get out of your comfort zone and take risks!
  • What is Business Rescue Road Map about?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works.

 

]]> 2550 no 86: Andrea Schumacher - Strategies for Client Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/86-andrea-schumacher-strategies-for-client-management Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too. Show Notes: She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time? How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm? How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started? Explain how everything is broken down up front! What about the customers that can’t be pleased? When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands? Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins? What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm? Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm? What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm? How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes! What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? What is Design Leadership Network? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works    Wed, 12 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and... Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too. Show Notes: She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time? How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm? How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started? Explain how everything is broken down up front! What about the customers that can’t be pleased? When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands? Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins? What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm? Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm? What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm? How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes! What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design? What is Design Leadership Network? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works    Welcome back! Our guest today has been in the interior design business for 17 years! Andrea Schumacher started her own eight-person firm, Andrea Schumacher Interior Design, including herself in Colorado in 1999. Andrea has experience in commercial and residential spaces and she has set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures! She has a BA in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University and a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. Today she is going to share with us how she does things at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design and how she makes everything more efficient and successful and how you can too.

Show Notes:

  • She can have how many projects in the pipeline at one time?
  • How are the positions broken down at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • Did she work for anyone before she started her own firm?
  • How was Andrea Schumacher Interior Design started?
  • Explain how everything is broken down up front!
  • What about the customers that can’t be pleased?
  • When does the “process” go into the project manager’s hands?
  • Why doesn’t she like to hear a budget before the design project begins?
  • What was her aha moment that there needed to be a change with her accountant to get her books straightened out for her design firm?
  • Who is Chandra and what is her role in Andrea’s firm?
  • What are some ways that Chandra has increased profitability for Andrea’s firm?
  • How much has her profitability increased since Chandra has started working at Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • Keep yourself as humble as possible and own up to your mistakes!
  • What is the next big thing for Andrea Schumacher Interior Design?
  • What is Design Leadership Network?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works 

 

]]> 3172 no 85: Heather Gillette & Mark Cutler- Introduce Designer Inc! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/85-heather-gillette-mark-cutler-introduce-designer-inc I am so pleased to have Mark Cutler and Heather Gillette with us on the show! The information that they are going to share today will maximize yours and your staff’s productivity in a way you previously could not imagine. Heather is a tech person and has been specialized in early tech startups for the past twenty years. She will explain that there are never enough resources, so you need to be creative and innovative to keep up with the amount of work. Heather founded and headed up several departments of YouTube. With little manpower, she and her team kept YouTube legal and clean while processing millions of videos and user communications every day. Heather wanted to bring this same thinking and make interior design more accessible. This is when their first company was born: NousDécor.  Mark Cutler is an Australian-born interior designer. Mark is one of the Robb Report’s top 40 firms in the country and a leading proponent of interior design as a form of portraiture. He is formally the resident designer for A&E’s TV Makeover Mamas. He has many celebrity clients and his work has been in many leading interior design magazines. He currently serves as the Chief Design Officer at NousDécor. You can read the show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com Mon, 10 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I am so pleased to have Mark Cutler and Heather Gillette with us on the show! The information that they are going to share today will maximize yours and your staff’s productivity in a way you previously could not imagine. Heather is a tech person... I am so pleased to have Mark Cutler and Heather Gillette with us on the show! The information that they are going to share today will maximize yours and your staff’s productivity in a way you previously could not imagine. Heather is a tech person and has been specialized in early tech startups for the past twenty years. She will explain that there are never enough resources, so you need to be creative and innovative to keep up with the amount of work. Heather founded and headed up several departments of YouTube. With little manpower, she and her team kept YouTube legal and clean while processing millions of videos and user communications every day. Heather wanted to bring this same thinking and make interior design more accessible. This is when their first company was born: NousDécor.  Mark Cutler is an Australian-born interior designer. Mark is one of the Robb Report’s top 40 firms in the country and a leading proponent of interior design as a form of portraiture. He is formally the resident designer for A&E’s TV Makeover Mamas. He has many celebrity clients and his work has been in many leading interior design magazines. He currently serves as the Chief Design Officer at NousDécor. You can read the show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com I am so pleased to have Mark Cutler and Heather Gillette with us on the show! The information that they are going to share today will maximize yours and your staff’s productivity in a way you previously could not imagine. Heather is a tech person and has been specialized in early tech startups for the past twenty years. She will explain that there are never enough resources, so you need to be creative and innovative to keep up with the amount of work. Heather founded and headed up several departments of YouTube. With little manpower, she and her team kept YouTube legal and clean while processing millions of videos and user communications every day. Heather wanted to bring this same thinking and make interior design more accessible. This is when their first company was born: NousDécor. 

Mark Cutler is an Australian-born interior designer. Mark is one of the Robb Report’s top 40 firms in the country and a leading proponent of interior design as a form of portraiture. He is formally the resident designer for A&E’s TV Makeover Mamas. He has many celebrity clients and his work has been in many leading interior design magazines. He currently serves as the Chief Design Officer at NousDécor.

You can read the show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3642 no 84: Shauna Lynn Simon- How to Host a Successful Interior Design Consumer Event in Your Community http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/84-shauna-lynn-simon-how-to-host-a-successful-interior-design-consumer-event-in-your-community In this episode, the first of a series of 3 shows,  Shauna Lynn Simon, Owner/Founder of Beyond the Stage Homes and Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, talks about a strategy for connecting with your avatar (target clients/audience) on a personal level. She talks about the important steps, procedures, and pointers – the checklist to ensure the effectiveness of this strategy – holding workshops. It can be a powerful lead generation tool to build your brand and business. The success of the event could depend on how well you have prepared for it.   Show Notes   Choosing an engaging topic, and framing an attractive title Educational and specific topic would be an ideal choice of topic Choosing the right venue – inexpensive for a small audience, and a bigger venue or a showroom for a bigger audience, without sales pitching The key to selecting the right venue Content creation – valuable, informative, helpful What to give away as handouts Presentation techniques Inviting guest resource persons Securing sponsors Marketing and promoting it in social media – fill every seat Techniques in social media promotion Shauna Lynn will cover other related topics in the forthcoming 2 weeks:  Determining who your community is and how you fit into that community Determining what you can contribute to the community to make it better, bigger, etc. Identifying your voice and connecting with your followers, clients, fans with that emotional connection You can listen to the full episode at our resource center:  Window Works Fri, 07 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara (First of 3 Shows) In this episode, the first of a series of 3 shows,  Shauna Lynn Simon, Owner/Founder of Beyond the Stage Homes and Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, talks about a strategy for connecting with your avatar (target clients/audience) on a personal level. She talks about the important steps, procedures, and pointers – the checklist to ensure the effectiveness of this strategy – holding workshops. It can be a powerful lead generation tool to build your brand and business. The success of the event could depend on how well you have prepared for it.   Show Notes   Choosing an engaging topic, and framing an attractive title Educational and specific topic would be an ideal choice of topic Choosing the right venue – inexpensive for a small audience, and a bigger venue or a showroom for a bigger audience, without sales pitching The key to selecting the right venue Content creation – valuable, informative, helpful What to give away as handouts Presentation techniques Inviting guest resource persons Securing sponsors Marketing and promoting it in social media – fill every seat Techniques in social media promotion Shauna Lynn will cover other related topics in the forthcoming 2 weeks:  Determining who your community is and how you fit into that community Determining what you can contribute to the community to make it better, bigger, etc. Identifying your voice and connecting with your followers, clients, fans with that emotional connection You can listen to the full episode at our resource center:  Window Works In this episode, the first of a series of 3 shows,  Shauna Lynn Simon, Owner/Founder of Beyond the Stage Homes and Styled, Listed, and Sold (SLS) Academy, talks about a strategy for connecting with your avatar (target clients/audience) on a personal level. She talks about the important steps, procedures, and pointers – the checklist to ensure the effectiveness of this strategy – holding workshops. It can be a powerful lead generation tool to build your brand and business. The success of the event could depend on how well you have prepared for it.

 

Show Notes

 

  • Choosing an engaging topic, and framing an attractive title
  • Educational and specific topic would be an ideal choice of topic
  • Choosing the right venue – inexpensive for a small audience, and a bigger venue or a showroom for a bigger audience, without sales pitching
  • The key to selecting the right venue
  • Content creation – valuable, informative, helpful
  • What to give away as handouts
  • Presentation techniques
  • Inviting guest resource persons
  • Securing sponsors
  • Marketing and promoting it in social media – fill every seat
  • Techniques in social media promotion
  • Shauna Lynn will cover other related topics in the forthcoming 2 weeks: 
    • Determining who your community is and how you fit into that community
    • Determining what you can contribute to the community to make it better, bigger, etc.
    • Identifying your voice and connecting with your followers, clients, fans with that emotional connection

You can listen to the full episode at our resource center:  Window Works

]]> 3245 no 83: Lauren Clement of Lauren Nicole Designs - An Interior Design Firm Built on Family and Teamwork http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/83-lauren-clement-of-lauren-nicole-designs-an-interior-design-firm-built-on-family-and-teamwork We have our first request for an interview from a listener of the show! Lauren Clement comes from an interior design family! Her mother has had her business since Lauren was two and now Lauren has her own business, Lauren Nicole Designs. She is going to share with us how she runs her business and tell us about the people she has on her team. Show Notes: Who are her mentors? Who is on her team? When should you consider a new hire? What are Design 101 events? A WWII airplane hangar design? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works Wed, 05 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have our first request for an interview from a listener of the show! Lauren Clement comes from an interior design family! Her mother has had her business since Lauren was two and now Lauren has her own business, Lauren Nicole Designs. She is going... We have our first request for an interview from a listener of the show! Lauren Clement comes from an interior design family! Her mother has had her business since Lauren was two and now Lauren has her own business, Lauren Nicole Designs. She is going to share with us how she runs her business and tell us about the people she has on her team. Show Notes: Who are her mentors? Who is on her team? When should you consider a new hire? What are Design 101 events? A WWII airplane hangar design? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works We have our first request for an interview from a listener of the show! Lauren Clement comes from an interior design family! Her mother has had her business since Lauren was two and now Lauren has her own business, Lauren Nicole Designs. She is going to share with us how she runs her business and tell us about the people she has on her team.

Show Notes:

  • Who are her mentors?
  • Who is on her team?
  • When should you consider a new hire?
  • What are Design 101 events?
  • A WWII airplane hangar design?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center: Window Works

]]> 3585 no 82: Deborah Rosenberg - Tailoring Your Interior Design Firm to Your Core Beliefs http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/82-deborah-rosenberg-tailoring-your-interior-design-firm-to-your-core-beliefs For the past 8 or 9 months, we have had designer after designer talk about something that they are passionate about and turn it into a guiding force to increase business in their design firm. But I have not met anyone who has a design that is cruelty and vegan free…until now. On the show today is Deborah Rosenberg, a writer, lecturer, and founder of DiMare Design in Miami Florida.  DiMare is an interior design firm that promotes the use of vegan, organic materials. She will never use any materials that involve the harming of animals and she educates her clients, suppliers, and the entire industry about the advantages and benefits of cruelty-free/vegan design. She has incorporated her family values in her design business.   Show notes:    Why and how Deborah started focusing on this niche. How did this become a big part of her designs? What does vegan mean? The sweet reason why she is so passionate about using “humane interior design” Leather manufacturers skin dogs to produce dog leather? How long she has been in the design business and her niche What materials she substitutes for animal-based leather What materials she uses to substitute for chemical-drenched materials Deborah is an animal activist with PETA. What she does for the organization What she uses for wellness, healthy design especially for allergy sufferers What are the desirable alternatives to leather, down, wool, and silk Do clients find her now because her design is vegan? It’s all about educating! What fabrics are ok? What is 72-hour turnkey design? What other services does her firm offer? Be as detailed as possible! Where she sources these materials How she charges for expedited service For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center:   Window Works Mon, 03 Oct 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara For the past 8 or 9 months, we have had designer after designer talk about something that they are passionate about and turn it into a guiding force to increase business in their design firm. But I have not met anyone who has a design that is cruelty... For the past 8 or 9 months, we have had designer after designer talk about something that they are passionate about and turn it into a guiding force to increase business in their design firm. But I have not met anyone who has a design that is cruelty and vegan free…until now. On the show today is Deborah Rosenberg, a writer, lecturer, and founder of DiMare Design in Miami Florida.  DiMare is an interior design firm that promotes the use of vegan, organic materials. She will never use any materials that involve the harming of animals and she educates her clients, suppliers, and the entire industry about the advantages and benefits of cruelty-free/vegan design. She has incorporated her family values in her design business.   Show notes:    Why and how Deborah started focusing on this niche. How did this become a big part of her designs? What does vegan mean? The sweet reason why she is so passionate about using “humane interior design” Leather manufacturers skin dogs to produce dog leather? How long she has been in the design business and her niche What materials she substitutes for animal-based leather What materials she uses to substitute for chemical-drenched materials Deborah is an animal activist with PETA. What she does for the organization What she uses for wellness, healthy design especially for allergy sufferers What are the desirable alternatives to leather, down, wool, and silk Do clients find her now because her design is vegan? It’s all about educating! What fabrics are ok? What is 72-hour turnkey design? What other services does her firm offer? Be as detailed as possible! Where she sources these materials How she charges for expedited service For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center:   Window Works For the past 8 or 9 months, we have had designer after designer talk about something that they are passionate about and turn it into a guiding force to increase business in their design firm. But I have not met anyone who has a design that is cruelty and vegan free…until now. On the show today is Deborah Rosenberg, a writer, lecturer, and founder of DiMare Design in Miami Florida.  DiMare is an interior design firm that promotes the use of vegan, organic materials. She will never use any materials that involve the harming of animals and she educates her clients, suppliers, and the entire industry about the advantages and benefits of cruelty-free/vegan design. She has incorporated her family values in her design business.

 

Show notes:

  

  • Why and how Deborah started focusing on this niche. How did this become a big part of her designs?
  • What does vegan mean?
  • The sweet reason why she is so passionate about using “humane interior design”
  • Leather manufacturers skin dogs to produce dog leather?
  • How long she has been in the design business and her niche
  • What materials she substitutes for animal-based leather
  • What materials she uses to substitute for chemical-drenched materials
  • Deborah is an animal activist with PETA. What she does for the organization
  • What she uses for wellness, healthy design especially for allergy sufferers
  • What are the desirable alternatives to leather, down, wool, and silk
  • Do clients find her now because her design is vegan?
  • It’s all about educating!
  • What fabrics are ok?
  • What is 72-hour turnkey design?
  • What other services does her firm offer?
  • Be as detailed as possible!
  • Where she sources these materials
  • How she charges for expedited service

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our resource center:   Window Works

]]> 3075 no 81: Power Talk Friday- Krista Coupar: Build Your Story and Your Brand http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/81-power-talk-friday-krista-coupar-build-your-story-and-your-brand Thanks for coming back to power talk Friday! We love our talks with Krista Coupar. She has our heads spinning a little bit with all of the information she has given us so far. Today is she is going to share with us her story and her brand. Show Notes: What is brand building supposed to be about? Remember the inspirations! What should the essence of your brand be? What is the reason figuring out what your brand is? Resources: www.couparconsultations.com   Please visit our resource center: Window Works     Fri, 30 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Thanks for coming back to power talk Friday! We love our talks with Krista Coupar. She has our heads spinning a little bit with all of the information she has given us so far. Today is she is going to share with us her story and her brand. Show Notes:... Thanks for coming back to power talk Friday! We love our talks with Krista Coupar. She has our heads spinning a little bit with all of the information she has given us so far. Today is she is going to share with us her story and her brand. Show Notes: What is brand building supposed to be about? Remember the inspirations! What should the essence of your brand be? What is the reason figuring out what your brand is? Resources: www.couparconsultations.com   Please visit our resource center: Window Works     Thanks for coming back to power talk Friday! We love our talks with Krista Coupar. She has our heads spinning a little bit with all of the information she has given us so far. Today is she is going to share with us her story and her brand.

Show Notes:

  • What is brand building supposed to be about?
  • Remember the inspirations!
  • What should the essence of your brand be?
  • What is the reason figuring out what your brand is?

Resources:

www.couparconsultations.com

 

Please visit our resource center: Window Works

 

 

]]> 2018 no 80: Asler Valero- Be Intentional- Design Your Business and Your Life http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/80-asler-valero-be-intentional-design-your-business-and-your-life Window Works features Asler Valero, a  Venezuelan-American interior designer with projects in the Caribbean, South America, and Europe. Asler's work has been greatly influenced by Stephen Sills Associates and Uniford Design Studios with whom he had collaborated on residential and commercial projects around the world. Asler is also recognized as a color expert by paint companies around the country, several of which he serves as consultant to. Show Notes What are the design lessons Asler learned at Sills-Hunniford Dwellings The most important design element for Asler  The purposes behind his choice of design elements The reasons behind his choice of color schemes The reason why he is very organized and precise His tips on learning His tips on the value of styling a room for photography The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Wed, 28 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Window Works features Asler Valero, a  Venezuelan-American interior designer with projects in the Caribbean, South America, and Europe. Asler's work has been greatly influenced by Stephen Sills Associates and Uniford Design Studios... Window Works features Asler Valero, a  Venezuelan-American interior designer with projects in the Caribbean, South America, and Europe. Asler's work has been greatly influenced by Stephen Sills Associates and Uniford Design Studios with whom he had collaborated on residential and commercial projects around the world. Asler is also recognized as a color expert by paint companies around the country, several of which he serves as consultant to. Show Notes What are the design lessons Asler learned at Sills-Hunniford Dwellings The most important design element for Asler  The purposes behind his choice of design elements The reasons behind his choice of color schemes The reason why he is very organized and precise His tips on learning His tips on the value of styling a room for photography The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works  Window Works features Asler Valero, a  Venezuelan-American interior designer with projects in the Caribbean, South America, and Europe. Asler's work has been greatly influenced by Stephen Sills Associates and Uniford Design Studios with whom he had collaborated on residential and commercial projects around the world. Asler is also recognized as a color expert by paint companies around the country, several of which he serves as consultant to.

Show Notes

  • What are the design lessons Asler learned at Sills-Hunniford Dwellings
  • The most important design element for Asler 
  • The purposes behind his choice of design elements
  • The reasons behind his choice of color schemes
  • The reason why he is very organized and precise
  • His tips on learning
  • His tips on the value of styling a room for photography

The rest of the show notes are in our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 3076 no 79: Anna Brockway- Co-Founder & President of Chairish http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/79-anna-brockaway-co-founder-president-of-chairish Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site Show Notes: What is Chairish? Why did she start the business? What is the Chairish pink book? Is it a business or a feature? Research the market! What kind of special features does the Chairish site have? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works   Mon, 26 Sep 2016 17:20:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it... Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site Show Notes: What is Chairish? Why did she start the business? What is the Chairish pink book? Is it a business or a feature? Research the market! What kind of special features does the Chairish site have? For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works   Have you heard of Chairish yet? If you haven’t yet I am so happy to introduce you to this brand and Anna Brockway: one of the founders of this brand! Listen in to Anna’s story of how she started her company only three and a half years ago and it already has 150000 items available on the site

Show Notes:

  • What is Chairish?
  • Why did she start the business?
  • What is the Chairish pink book?
  • Is it a business or a feature?
  • Research the market!
  • What kind of special features does the Chairish site have?

For the rest of the show notes, please visit our Resource Center-- Window Works

 

]]> 3304 no 78: Power Talk Friday: Vince & LuAnn Nigara - Work with the people you love and care for as they will also care for your business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/78-power-talk-friday-vince-luann-nigara-work-with-the-people-you-love-and-care-for-as-they-will-also-care-for-your-business If you’re planning to set up a family business, this podcast will give you valuable insights to help make your business a phenomenal success.  LuAnn presents the one big factor that has contributed to the success of the family business, Window Works. It’s the vital role played by her husband Vince.  He’s the so-called “Systems Nazi” in the company and his role-- accounting, finance, and systems administration—keeps the business organized, efficient, and effective. The role of the family members is to provide a strong, effective teamwork.  Everyone’s commitment (including their extended family of employees) is strong.  The plans and goals keep the family together in pursuing their common goals.  Vince is fully committed to the quality of customer service that Window Works delivers. He sets up the rules, everyone else’s role, as well as the interconnected systems for 1) monitoring the processes and results, and 2) motivating the team to aim for a higher level of progress and success. Window Works, as a family business, is less bureaucratic, has a built-in trust factor with established relationships (customers, partners, dealers, suppliers, employees) and provides for the hands-on training and early exposure to the next generation. That, by itself, is part of the business plan. Show notes Business planning often guides the entire planning process and sets the agenda for the future operations of the business. Vince and Luann develop both the big mission and small mission plans. They aim for an exceptional level of customer service - the most critical factor that differentiates their  business from the rest of the  heavy competition Price point is not the only factor - identify the product and service you want to offer, its value Determine your “awesomeness” that makes you stand out in the marketplace Find out what the customer needs, wants, and is capable of paying for Aspire to bring the very best among the many products and services you offer Get the rest of the tips from our resource center: Window Works  Fri, 23 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara If you’re planning to set up a family business, this podcast will give you valuable insights to help make your business a phenomenal success.  LuAnn presents the one big factor that has contributed to the success of the family business, It’s... If you’re planning to set up a family business, this podcast will give you valuable insights to help make your business a phenomenal success.  LuAnn presents the one big factor that has contributed to the success of the family business, Window Works. It’s the vital role played by her husband Vince.  He’s the so-called “Systems Nazi” in the company and his role-- accounting, finance, and systems administration—keeps the business organized, efficient, and effective. The role of the family members is to provide a strong, effective teamwork.  Everyone’s commitment (including their extended family of employees) is strong.  The plans and goals keep the family together in pursuing their common goals.  Vince is fully committed to the quality of customer service that Window Works delivers. He sets up the rules, everyone else’s role, as well as the interconnected systems for 1) monitoring the processes and results, and 2) motivating the team to aim for a higher level of progress and success. Window Works, as a family business, is less bureaucratic, has a built-in trust factor with established relationships (customers, partners, dealers, suppliers, employees) and provides for the hands-on training and early exposure to the next generation. That, by itself, is part of the business plan. Show notes Business planning often guides the entire planning process and sets the agenda for the future operations of the business. Vince and Luann develop both the big mission and small mission plans. They aim for an exceptional level of customer service - the most critical factor that differentiates their  business from the rest of the  heavy competition Price point is not the only factor - identify the product and service you want to offer, its value Determine your “awesomeness” that makes you stand out in the marketplace Find out what the customer needs, wants, and is capable of paying for Aspire to bring the very best among the many products and services you offer Get the rest of the tips from our resource center: Window Works  If you’re planning to set up a family business, this podcast will give you valuable insights to help make your business a phenomenal success.  LuAnn presents the one big factor that has contributed to the success of the family business, Window Works. It’s the vital role played by her husband Vince.  He’s the so-called “Systems Nazi” in the company and his role-- accounting, finance, and systems administration—keeps the business organized, efficient, and effective. The role of the family members is to provide a strong, effective teamwork.  Everyone’s commitment (including their extended family of employees) is strong.  The plans and goals keep the family together in pursuing their common goals.

 Vince is fully committed to the quality of customer service that Window Works delivers. He sets up the rules, everyone else’s role, as well as the interconnected systems for 1) monitoring the processes and results, and 2) motivating the team to aim for a higher level of progress and success.

Window Works, as a family business, is less bureaucratic, has a built-in trust factor with established relationships (customers, partners, dealers, suppliers, employees) and provides for the hands-on training and early exposure to the next generation. That, by itself, is part of the business plan.

Show notes

  • Business planning often guides the entire planning process and sets the agenda for the future operations of the business. Vince and Luann develop both the big mission and small mission plans.
  • They aim for an exceptional level of customer service - the most critical factor that differentiates their  business from the rest of the  heavy competition
  • Price point is not the only factor - identify the product and service you want to offer, its value
  • Determine your “awesomeness” that makes you stand out in the marketplace
  • Find out what the customer needs, wants, and is capable of paying for
  • Aspire to bring the very best among the many products and services you offer

Get the rest of the tips from our resource center: Window Works 

]]> 2885 no 77: Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/77-katie-deedy-founder-of-grow-house-grow-inspiration-guts-and-hard-work-in-creating-a-business Today we have Katie Deedy with us! Katie is a textile designer which includes: wallpaper, tile, fabric and accessories. Her business, Grow House Grow,  specializes in narrative-inspired pattern work. We are going to talk about how her business got started, what sort of things she learned along the way and how she got her name out there. Show Notes: How did her business start? What is her business? How does history impact her work? What advice would she give to someone starting out? Don’t be ashamed of the side job! How did she make herself known? How can you access her product? What other products has her work crossed over into? How did her work end up in a museum? For the rest of the show notes, please  visit our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com Wed, 21 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Katie Deedy with us! Katie is a textile designer which includes: wallpaper, tile, fabric and accessories. Her business, Grow House Grow,  specializes in narrative-inspired pattern work. We are going to talk about how her business... Today we have Katie Deedy with us! Katie is a textile designer which includes: wallpaper, tile, fabric and accessories. Her business, Grow House Grow,  specializes in narrative-inspired pattern work. We are going to talk about how her business got started, what sort of things she learned along the way and how she got her name out there. Show Notes: How did her business start? What is her business? How does history impact her work? What advice would she give to someone starting out? Don’t be ashamed of the side job! How did she make herself known? How can you access her product? What other products has her work crossed over into? How did her work end up in a museum? For the rest of the show notes, please  visit our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com Today we have Katie Deedy with us! Katie is a textile designer which includes: wallpaper, tile, fabric and accessories. Her business, Grow House Grow,  specializes in narrative-inspired pattern work. We are going to talk about how her business got started, what sort of things she learned along the way and how she got her name out there.

Show Notes:

  • How did her business start?
  • What is her business?
  • How does history impact her work?
  • What advice would she give to someone starting out?
  • Don’t be ashamed of the side job!
  • How did she make herself known?
  • How can you access her product?
  • What other products has her work crossed over into?
  • How did her work end up in a museum?

For the rest of the show notes, please 

visit our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3479 no 76: Shauna Lynn Simon- Home Staging is not Interior Design and Here’s Why http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/76-shauna-lynn-simon-home-staging-is-not-interior-design-and-heres-why Welcome back to another episode of  A Well Designed Business! Today we have Shauna Lynn Simon who is a fantastic home stager! Shauna is going to share with us how she  steered her talents to home staging and why she decided on the  home staging niche rather than interior design. Show Notes: How did she get into home staging? How did she reanalyze her situation when things did not take off the way she wanted? How did she figure out who her target client should be? Selling yourself vs selling a product What is the “wow” factor? What is in her client care packet? What are the differences between interior design and home staging? How do you tell someone their house is filthy? You can get the rest of the show notes from our resource center: Window Works   Mon, 19 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another episode of  A Well Designed Business! Today we have Shauna Lynn Simon who is a fantastic home stager! Shauna is going to share with us how she  steered her talents to home staging and why she decided on the  home... Welcome back to another episode of  A Well Designed Business! Today we have Shauna Lynn Simon who is a fantastic home stager! Shauna is going to share with us how she  steered her talents to home staging and why she decided on the  home staging niche rather than interior design. Show Notes: How did she get into home staging? How did she reanalyze her situation when things did not take off the way she wanted? How did she figure out who her target client should be? Selling yourself vs selling a product What is the “wow” factor? What is in her client care packet? What are the differences between interior design and home staging? How do you tell someone their house is filthy? You can get the rest of the show notes from our resource center: Window Works   Welcome back to another episode of  A Well Designed Business! Today we have Shauna Lynn Simon who is a fantastic home stager! Shauna is going to share with us how she  steered her talents to home staging and why she decided on the  home staging niche rather than interior design.

Show Notes:

  • How did she get into home staging?
  • How did she reanalyze her situation when things did not take off the way she wanted?
  • How did she figure out who her target client should be?
  • Selling yourself vs selling a product
  • What is the “wow” factor?
  • What is in her client care packet?
  • What are the differences between interior design and home staging?
  • How do you tell someone their house is filthy?

You can get the rest of the show notes from our resource center: Window Works

 

]]> 3971 no 75: Power Talk Friday - Marianne Cherico : What Would a CEO Do? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/75-power-talk-friday-marianne-cherico-what-would-a-ceo-do Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Today we have with us, Marianne Cherico! Marianne spent 27 years as a top producing realtor. She was a part of a two-person team that sold 100 houses per year! On top of her already impressive work in real estate, she started home staging in 2005. But then on top of home staging her most recent thing she has started and achieved is coaching. Coaching by Marianne helps us get unstuck, understand our limiting beliefs, and how to grow our business. Show Notes: Should you be all strategies? Who are you “being”? Why is mindset so important? It’s not woo woo! You have to be intentional! What would the CEO do? Get the rest of Marianne's valuable info from our resource center: Window Works Fri, 16 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Today we have with us, Marianne Cherico! Marianne spent 27 years as a top producing realtor. She was a part of a two-person team that sold 100 houses per year! On top of her already impressive work in real... Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Today we have with us, Marianne Cherico! Marianne spent 27 years as a top producing realtor. She was a part of a two-person team that sold 100 houses per year! On top of her already impressive work in real estate, she started home staging in 2005. But then on top of home staging her most recent thing she has started and achieved is coaching. Coaching by Marianne helps us get unstuck, understand our limiting beliefs, and how to grow our business. Show Notes: Should you be all strategies? Who are you “being”? Why is mindset so important? It’s not woo woo! You have to be intentional! What would the CEO do? Get the rest of Marianne's valuable info from our resource center: Window Works Welcome back to another power talk Friday! Today we have with us, Marianne Cherico! Marianne spent 27 years as a top producing realtor. She was a part of a two-person team that sold 100 houses per year! On top of her already impressive work in real estate, she started home staging in 2005. But then on top of home staging her most recent thing she has started and achieved is coaching. Coaching by Marianne helps us get unstuck, understand our limiting beliefs, and how to grow our business.

Show Notes:

  • Should you be all strategies?
  • Who are you “being”?
  • Why is mindset so important?
  • It’s not woo woo!
  • You have to be intentional!
  • What would the CEO do?

Get the rest of Marianne's valuable info from our resource center: Window Works

]]> 2203 no 74: Candice Olson - How To Be an Overnight Success in 25 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/74-candice-olson-how-to-be-an-overnight-success-in-25-years You may have heard of a show called “Devine Design”, right? Well, today we have the star of Devine Design on the show! Candice Olson started out in commercial design and then worked her way into residential design and then into her tv shows. She is going to share her work experiences with us and her collaboration with Kravet Inc.! Show Notes: How did Candice become “Candice Olson”? When did she decide the show had to come to an end? Who is Chico? How did you get on the show? How does she decide to do another collection? What is the labor of work when doing a collection? Let’s talk window design collections! Get the rest of the show notes from our resource center.   Wed, 14 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara You may have heard of a show called “Devine Design”, right? Well, today we have the star of Devine Design on the show! Candice Olson started out in commercial design and then worked her way into residential design and then into her tv... You may have heard of a show called “Devine Design”, right? Well, today we have the star of Devine Design on the show! Candice Olson started out in commercial design and then worked her way into residential design and then into her tv shows. She is going to share her work experiences with us and her collaboration with Kravet Inc.! Show Notes: How did Candice become “Candice Olson”? When did she decide the show had to come to an end? Who is Chico? How did you get on the show? How does she decide to do another collection? What is the labor of work when doing a collection? Let’s talk window design collections! Get the rest of the show notes from our resource center.   You may have heard of a show called “Devine Design”, right? Well, today we have the star of Devine Design on the show! Candice Olson started out in commercial design and then worked her way into residential design and then into her tv shows. She is going to share her work experiences with us and her collaboration with Kravet Inc.!

Show Notes:

  • How did Candice become “Candice Olson”?
  • When did she decide the show had to come to an end?
  • Who is Chico?
  • How did you get on the show?
  • How does she decide to do another collection?
  • What is the labor of work when doing a collection?
  • Let’s talk window design collections!

Get the rest of the show notes from our resource center.  

]]> 4058 no 73: Kim Kuhteubl: Understand the Value of Your Creativity and How to Find Your True Tribe http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/kim-kuhteubl-understand-the-value-of-your-creativity-and-how-to-find-your-true-tribe Kim Kuhteubl graces our show today.  She is an   award-winning film producer, author, actor, and member of the Producer's Guild of America. Since 1999, she has been producing stories and shows   about interior design and real estate development in various media format  such as print, television, and on digital platforms. She is the founder of Me by Design, a firm that specializes in branding and visibility for interior designers and the design trade.  Me By Design is an idea  boutique for the home goods /homeware industry.  The business objectives include how to boost the brand value, visibility and audience engagement of boutique interior design firms and legacy design brands with a range of cross-platform, data-driven tools. Methods and techniques include digital storytelling, influencer, and social media marketing as well as bespoke video. Kim also serves on the Board of Advisors for Thrive GPO, a group purchasing organization and procurement service providing nonprofit organizations with access to better pricing for common goods and services. She has just recently published her book Branding + Interior Design.   Listen to the podcast to get the details of the following: Show Notes All the various related industries that Kim has participated in Her grandfather was a major influence in her life and business Find out the secret to her overwhelming success. It’s something intrinsic At the start of her career, she was earning awards  but she had very little income Her work values and attitude How creativity can serve people. The work of creative professionals has value which needs to be purchased and paid for. You can get the rest of the show notes and resources from our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com Mon, 12 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Kim Kuhteubl graces our show today.  She is an   award-winning film producer, author, actor, and member of the Producer's Guild of America. Since 1999, she has been producing stories and shows   about interior design and real... Kim Kuhteubl graces our show today.  She is an   award-winning film producer, author, actor, and member of the Producer's Guild of America. Since 1999, she has been producing stories and shows   about interior design and real estate development in various media format  such as print, television, and on digital platforms. She is the founder of Me by Design, a firm that specializes in branding and visibility for interior designers and the design trade.  Me By Design is an idea  boutique for the home goods /homeware industry.  The business objectives include how to boost the brand value, visibility and audience engagement of boutique interior design firms and legacy design brands with a range of cross-platform, data-driven tools. Methods and techniques include digital storytelling, influencer, and social media marketing as well as bespoke video. Kim also serves on the Board of Advisors for Thrive GPO, a group purchasing organization and procurement service providing nonprofit organizations with access to better pricing for common goods and services. She has just recently published her book Branding + Interior Design.   Listen to the podcast to get the details of the following: Show Notes All the various related industries that Kim has participated in Her grandfather was a major influence in her life and business Find out the secret to her overwhelming success. It’s something intrinsic At the start of her career, she was earning awards  but she had very little income Her work values and attitude How creativity can serve people. The work of creative professionals has value which needs to be purchased and paid for. You can get the rest of the show notes and resources from our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com Kim Kuhteubl graces our show today.  She is an   award-winning film producer, author, actor, and member of the Producer's Guild of America. Since 1999, she has been producing stories and shows   about interior design and real estate development in various media format  such as print, television, and on digital platforms. She is the founder of Me by Design, a firm that specializes in branding and visibility for interior designers and the design trade.  Me By Design is an idea  boutique for the home goods /homeware industry.  The business objectives include how to boost the brand value, visibility and audience engagement of boutique interior design firms and legacy design brands with a range of cross-platform, data-driven tools. Methods and techniques include digital storytelling, influencer, and social media marketing as well as bespoke video.

Kim also serves on the Board of Advisors for Thrive GPO, a group purchasing organization and procurement service providing nonprofit organizations with access to better pricing for common goods and services.

She has just recently published her book Branding + Interior Design.   Listen to the podcast to get the details of the following:

Show Notes

  • All the various related industries that Kim has participated in
  • Her grandfather was a major influence in her life and business
  • Find out the secret to her overwhelming success. It’s something intrinsic
  • At the start of her career, she was earning awards  but she had very little income
  • Her work values and attitude
  • How creativity can serve people. The work of creative professionals has value which needs to be purchased and paid for.

You can get the rest of the show notes and resources from our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 5009 no 72: The Dream Business Coach, Jim Palmer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/72-the-dream-business-coach-jim-palmer We have a special treat today! We have Jim Palmer, “the dream business coach”! Jim is an author, marketing and business building expert and in-demand coach. He is going to be talking with us in particular about something that we all struggle with as business owners: How do we get more business? Show Notes: • How do you attract more clients? • What sort of things can entrepreneurs do to attract business? • What was his turning point? • What can you do get over your fears? • Don’t become an also! • Newsletter versus an email • What is the most important number to know?   See the rest of the show notes at our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com Fri, 09 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have a special treat today! We have Jim Palmer, “the dream business coach”! Jim is an author, marketing and business building expert and in-demand coach. He is going to be talking with us in particular about something that we all struggle... We have a special treat today! We have Jim Palmer, “the dream business coach”! Jim is an author, marketing and business building expert and in-demand coach. He is going to be talking with us in particular about something that we all struggle with as business owners: How do we get more business? Show Notes: • How do you attract more clients? • What sort of things can entrepreneurs do to attract business? • What was his turning point? • What can you do get over your fears? • Don’t become an also! • Newsletter versus an email • What is the most important number to know?   See the rest of the show notes at our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com We have a special treat today! We have Jim Palmer, “the dream business coach”! Jim is an author, marketing and business building expert and in-demand coach. He is going to be talking with us in particular about something that we all struggle with as business owners: How do we get more business?

Show Notes:

• How do you attract more clients? • What sort of things can entrepreneurs do to attract business? • What was his turning point? • What can you do get over your fears? • Don’t become an also! • Newsletter versus an email • What is the most important number to know?

 

See the rest of the show notes at our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 2929 no 71: Ellen Fisher- Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of New York School of Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/71-ellen-fisher-vice-president-of-academic-affairs-and-dean-of-new-york-school-of-interior-design Just in time for school,  we have Ellen Fisher, the dean of New York School of Interior Design! We are going to talk about the creating of designers and piggy-back off of the discussions from the past couple of weeks on how to make the experience for either an in college intern or a new graduate. Ellen Fisher has been with New York School of Interior Design since 1999, beginning her career at the College as a member of the faculty, and later becoming lower division area coordinator, associate vice president for academic affairs, and ultimately, vice president of academic affairs and dean in 2012. Fisher is a New York State certified interior designer, with graduate degrees in teaching with technology, and architectural studies.   Read the full show notes at our resource center: Website  http://windowworks-nj.com   Please join our social media: Instagram  Facebook   Twitter  Wed, 07 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Just in time for school,  we have Ellen Fisher, the dean of New York School of Interior Design! We are going to talk about the creating of designers and piggy-back off of the discussions from the past couple of weeks on how to make the... Just in time for school,  we have Ellen Fisher, the dean of New York School of Interior Design! We are going to talk about the creating of designers and piggy-back off of the discussions from the past couple of weeks on how to make the experience for either an in college intern or a new graduate. Ellen Fisher has been with New York School of Interior Design since 1999, beginning her career at the College as a member of the faculty, and later becoming lower division area coordinator, associate vice president for academic affairs, and ultimately, vice president of academic affairs and dean in 2012. Fisher is a New York State certified interior designer, with graduate degrees in teaching with technology, and architectural studies.   Read the full show notes at our resource center: Website  http://windowworks-nj.com   Please join our social media: Instagram  Facebook   Twitter  Just in time for school,  we have Ellen Fisher, the dean of New York School of Interior Design! We are going to talk about the creating of designers and piggy-back off of the discussions from the past couple of weeks on how to make the experience for either an in college intern or a new graduate.

Ellen Fisher has been with New York School of Interior Design since 1999, beginning her career at the College as a member of the faculty, and later becoming lower division area coordinator, associate vice president for academic affairs, and ultimately, vice president of academic affairs and dean in 2012. Fisher is a New York State certified interior designer, with graduate degrees in teaching with technology, and architectural studies.

 

Read the full show notes at our resource center: Website  http://windowworks-nj.com

 

Please join our social media:

Instagram 

Facebook  

Twitter 

]]> 3577 no 70: Nick May, His Podcast The Chaise Lounge, His Business Tips and More! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/70-nick-may-his-podcast-the-chaise-lounge-his-business-tips-and-more Nick May is with us today from The Chaise Lounge Podcast! Nick is the very first podcaster to devote the entire platform to the business of interior design. He is truly the trailblazer of our industry. He has been helping you with your business since 2014! Today we are going to learn more about the voice behind The Chaise Lounge. Show Notes: What is his business model? When did he start painting? When should you move more people in? Where is the marketing magic done? How did he get into podcasting? What two ways does his business work with designers? What kind of opportunities does his business offer? What is IDI? Go do Facebook live! Get the rest from our resource center:   http://windowworks-nj.com Mon, 05 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Nick May is with us today from The Chaise Lounge Podcast! Nick is the very first podcaster to devote the entire platform to the business of interior design. He is truly the trailblazer of our industry. He has been helping you with your business since... Nick May is with us today from The Chaise Lounge Podcast! Nick is the very first podcaster to devote the entire platform to the business of interior design. He is truly the trailblazer of our industry. He has been helping you with your business since 2014! Today we are going to learn more about the voice behind The Chaise Lounge. Show Notes: What is his business model? When did he start painting? When should you move more people in? Where is the marketing magic done? How did he get into podcasting? What two ways does his business work with designers? What kind of opportunities does his business offer? What is IDI? Go do Facebook live! Get the rest from our resource center:   http://windowworks-nj.com Nick May is with us today from The Chaise Lounge Podcast! Nick is the very first podcaster to devote the entire platform to the business of interior design. He is truly the trailblazer of our industry. He has been helping you with your business since 2014! Today we are going to learn more about the voice behind The Chaise Lounge.

Show Notes:

  • What is his business model?
  • When did he start painting?
  • When should you move more people in?
  • Where is the marketing magic done?
  • How did he get into podcasting?
  • What two ways does his business work with designers?
  • What kind of opportunities does his business offer?
  • What is IDI?
  • Go do Facebook live!

Get the rest from our resource center:  

http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3344 no 69: Power Talk Friday: Stacey Brown Randall - Take Control Of Your Business - Employee Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/68-power-talk-friday-stacey-brown-randall-take-control-of-your-business-employee-management It’s another power talk Friday! Today we have Stacey Brown Randall. She is a business growth acceleration specialist! Stacey’s mission is to help small businesses and solopreneours make more money and find more time. She is a certified productivity coach, an adjunct professor and she has her masters in organization communication. Today we are going to talk about the topic of taking control of your business. Show Notes: What three segments does Stacey’s business focus on? How does this power talk piggyback last power talk Friday? What is the four quad system? How do you get true freedom from your business? What is “identifying the bullseye”? Write your processes down!!! Find someone that can hold you accountable! You can read the rest of the show notes at our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com   Fri, 02 Sep 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s another power talk Friday! Today we have Stacey Brown Randall. She is a business growth acceleration specialist! Stacey’s mission is to help small businesses and solopreneours make more money and find more time. She is a certified... It’s another power talk Friday! Today we have Stacey Brown Randall. She is a business growth acceleration specialist! Stacey’s mission is to help small businesses and solopreneours make more money and find more time. She is a certified productivity coach, an adjunct professor and she has her masters in organization communication. Today we are going to talk about the topic of taking control of your business. Show Notes: What three segments does Stacey’s business focus on? How does this power talk piggyback last power talk Friday? What is the four quad system? How do you get true freedom from your business? What is “identifying the bullseye”? Write your processes down!!! Find someone that can hold you accountable! You can read the rest of the show notes at our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com   It’s another power talk Friday! Today we have Stacey Brown Randall. She is a business growth acceleration specialist! Stacey’s mission is to help small businesses and solopreneours make more money and find more time. She is a certified productivity coach, an adjunct professor and she has her masters in organization communication. Today we are going to talk about the topic of taking control of your business.

Show Notes:

  • What three segments does Stacey’s business focus on?
  • How does this power talk piggyback last power talk Friday?
  • What is the four quad system?
  • How do you get true freedom from your business?
  • What is “identifying the bullseye”?
  • Write your processes down!!!
  • Find someone that can hold you accountable!

You can read the rest of the show notes at our resource center:  http://windowworks-nj.com

 

]]> 3273 no 68: Chad James- "Think Forward” - Employee Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/68-chad-james-think-forward-employee-management Today we have Chad James with us from Chad James Group. Chad has a very thoughtful way of setting up his business. He considers his firm an educational firm and has the roles divided up into very specific categories. He identifies people as interns, apprentice, junior designer, design assistant and Chad himself. He is going to discuss with you ways to duplicate the systems he uses to manage his team with these categories. Show Notes: How did Chad come to use the systems he uses? What does he look for in an intern? How does he handle his hire process? Does each new person have to start at intern and work their way up? Take the initiative! How does he handle his staff day to day? Check out the rest from our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com Wed, 31 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Chad James with us from Chad James Group. Chad has a very thoughtful way of setting up his business. He considers his firm an educational firm and has the roles divided up into very specific categories. He identifies people as interns,... Today we have Chad James with us from Chad James Group. Chad has a very thoughtful way of setting up his business. He considers his firm an educational firm and has the roles divided up into very specific categories. He identifies people as interns, apprentice, junior designer, design assistant and Chad himself. He is going to discuss with you ways to duplicate the systems he uses to manage his team with these categories. Show Notes: How did Chad come to use the systems he uses? What does he look for in an intern? How does he handle his hire process? Does each new person have to start at intern and work their way up? Take the initiative! How does he handle his staff day to day? Check out the rest from our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com Today we have Chad James with us from Chad James Group. Chad has a very thoughtful way of setting up his business. He considers his firm an educational firm and has the roles divided up into very specific categories. He identifies people as interns, apprentice, junior designer, design assistant and Chad himself. He is going to discuss with you ways to duplicate the systems he uses to manage his team with these categories.

Show Notes:

  • How did Chad come to use the systems he uses?
  • What does he look for in an intern?
  • How does he handle his hire process?
  • Does each new person have to start at intern and work their way up?
  • Take the initiative!
  • How does he handle his staff day to day?

Check out the rest from our resource center: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3935 no 67: Alan Tanksley- Lessons and Observations from a 30+ Year Career in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/67-alan-tanksley-lessons-and-observations-from-a-30-year-career-in-interior-design Today on the show we are in for a real treat! Alan Tanksley has a “royalty” background in interior design and has his own successful firm: Alan Tanksley, Inc. We are going to talk about his “royalty” background and how space you work in can make a difference. Show Notes: Was Mark Hampton his first job? What has he learned working for different designers? How has his design changed? What advice would he give to someone starting out? How does the space he works in inspire him? How did he design his space? Make sure your team “fits” together! See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com Mon, 29 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we are in for a real treat! Alan Tanksley has a “royalty” background in interior design and has his own successful firm: Alan Tanksley, Inc. We are going to talk about his “royalty” background and how space you work in can... Today on the show we are in for a real treat! Alan Tanksley has a “royalty” background in interior design and has his own successful firm: Alan Tanksley, Inc. We are going to talk about his “royalty” background and how space you work in can make a difference. Show Notes: Was Mark Hampton his first job? What has he learned working for different designers? How has his design changed? What advice would he give to someone starting out? How does the space he works in inspire him? How did he design his space? Make sure your team “fits” together! See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com Today on the show we are in for a real treat! Alan Tanksley has a “royalty” background in interior design and has his own successful firm: Alan Tanksley, Inc. We are going to talk about his “royalty” background and how space you work in can make a difference.

Show Notes:

  • Was Mark Hampton his first job?
  • What has he learned working for different designers?
  • How has his design changed?
  • What advice would he give to someone starting out?
  • How does the space he works in inspire him?
  • How did he design his space?
  • Make sure your team “fits” together!

See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3838 no 66: Kae Whitaker- How to Hire and Train Interns http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/66-kae-whitaker-how-to-hire-and-train-interns On this week’s power talk Friday I have a returning expert: Kae Whitaker of Kae Whitaker Solutions! When Kae was on the show before she shared with us a case study with a particular interior designer that she helped turn her business around in three months-Farrha Hyman. Today she is going to talk with us how to hire the people you need. Show Notes: How do you decide how many people to have? Where should you look for people? What college student majors is a good pick? How do you increase workflow? Make good relationships with coordinators! What does the interview process look like? Paid employees versus intern When is the best time to find an intern? What are the six things that have to be in place for an intern? See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com Fri, 26 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On this week’s power talk Friday I have a returning expert: Kae Whitaker of Kae Whitaker Solutions! When Kae was on the show before she shared with us a case study with a particular interior designer that she helped turn her business around in three... On this week’s power talk Friday I have a returning expert: Kae Whitaker of Kae Whitaker Solutions! When Kae was on the show before she shared with us a case study with a particular interior designer that she helped turn her business around in three months-Farrha Hyman. Today she is going to talk with us how to hire the people you need. Show Notes: How do you decide how many people to have? Where should you look for people? What college student majors is a good pick? How do you increase workflow? Make good relationships with coordinators! What does the interview process look like? Paid employees versus intern When is the best time to find an intern? What are the six things that have to be in place for an intern? See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com On this week’s power talk Friday I have a returning expert: Kae Whitaker of Kae Whitaker Solutions! When Kae was on the show before she shared with us a case study with a particular interior designer that she helped turn her business around in three months-Farrha Hyman. Today she is going to talk with us how to hire the people you need.

Show Notes:

  • How do you decide how many people to have?
  • Where should you look for people?
  • What college student majors is a good pick?
  • How do you increase workflow?
  • Make good relationships with coordinators!
  • What does the interview process look like?
  • Paid employees versus intern
  • When is the best time to find an intern?
  • What are the six things that have to be in place for an intern?

See the rest of the resources here: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 2699 no 65: Natalie Reddell- Lessons From #Commanderinchic http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/64-natalie-reddell-lessons-from-commanderinchic We have Natalie Reddell  for this Well-Designed Business podcast episode. She is an interior designer, lifestyle blogger, and founder of Commander in Chic Design firm. Natalie began her career as a designer at the age of 4 , when she began collecting toothpaste tube tops as buffet lamp lampshades for her dollhouse.  When she's not working, she can be found at home with her 17-year old son, Schuyler, and  Scarlett O'Hara (their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel). Natalie received her undergraduate degree in interior design from Florida State University. She also studied the history of architecture & design at Parsons University, Paris, France. She has been in the industry for more than 16 years & has experience in kitchen & bathroom design,home staging,  historic-restoration, commercial design & buying for a large furniture company. Her work now is mostly high-end residential design. She has clients in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, the Carolinas, Montana, Colorado, Panama and the Bahamas. For the rest of the show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com   Wed, 24 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Natalie Reddell  for this Well-Designed Business podcast episode. She is an interior designer, lifestyle blogger, and founder of Commander in Chic Design firm. Natalie began her career as a designer at the age of 4 , when she began... We have Natalie Reddell  for this Well-Designed Business podcast episode. She is an interior designer, lifestyle blogger, and founder of Commander in Chic Design firm. Natalie began her career as a designer at the age of 4 , when she began collecting toothpaste tube tops as buffet lamp lampshades for her dollhouse.  When she's not working, she can be found at home with her 17-year old son, Schuyler, and  Scarlett O'Hara (their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel). Natalie received her undergraduate degree in interior design from Florida State University. She also studied the history of architecture & design at Parsons University, Paris, France. She has been in the industry for more than 16 years & has experience in kitchen & bathroom design,home staging,  historic-restoration, commercial design & buying for a large furniture company. Her work now is mostly high-end residential design. She has clients in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, the Carolinas, Montana, Colorado, Panama and the Bahamas. For the rest of the show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com   We have Natalie Reddell  for this Well-Designed Business podcast episode. She is an interior designer, lifestyle blogger, and founder of Commander in Chic Design firm.

Natalie began her career as a designer at the age of 4 , when she began collecting toothpaste tube tops as buffet lamp lampshades for her dollhouse.  When she's not working, she can be found at home with her 17-year old son, Schuyler, and  Scarlett O'Hara (their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel).

Natalie received her undergraduate degree in interior design from Florida State University. She also studied the history of architecture & design at Parsons University, Paris, France. She has been in the industry for more than 16 years & has experience in kitchen & bathroom design,home staging,  historic-restoration, commercial design & buying for a large furniture company. Her work now is mostly high-end residential design. She has clients in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, the Carolinas, Montana, Colorado, Panama and the Bahamas.

For the rest of the show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com

 

]]> 3830 no 64: Laura Umansky - Plan Your Career with Intention and Purpose http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/64-laura-umansky-plan-your-career-with-intention-and-purpose We have Laura Umansky from Laura U! This is a special interview for me because I love to meet the people you look up to in the design world. We love to see them create beautiful interiors but also big business platforms for themselves. Today we are going to talk to Laura about this. Laura founded her business Laura U in 2006 and personalized customer service is paramount. Show Notes: What was her work experience before going out on her own? Was there a business plan? What’s it like working with her husband? How did she establish the minimum of rooms she will do in a project? What are the processes her business uses? How is destination design different? What are the biggest challenges in destination design? For the rest of the resources, please visit http://windowworks-nj.com   Website: http://windowworks-nj.com Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ Mon, 22 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara We have Laura Umansky from Laura U! This is a special interview for me because I love to meet the people you look up to in the design world. We love to see them create beautiful interiors but also big business platforms for themselves. Today we are... We have Laura Umansky from Laura U! This is a special interview for me because I love to meet the people you look up to in the design world. We love to see them create beautiful interiors but also big business platforms for themselves. Today we are going to talk to Laura about this. Laura founded her business Laura U in 2006 and personalized customer service is paramount. Show Notes: What was her work experience before going out on her own? Was there a business plan? What’s it like working with her husband? How did she establish the minimum of rooms she will do in a project? What are the processes her business uses? How is destination design different? What are the biggest challenges in destination design? For the rest of the resources, please visit http://windowworks-nj.com   Website: http://windowworks-nj.com Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ We have Laura Umansky from Laura U! This is a special interview for me because I love to meet the people you look up to in the design world. We love to see them create beautiful interiors but also big business platforms for themselves. Today we are going to talk to Laura about this. Laura founded her business Laura U in 2006 and personalized customer service is paramount.

Show Notes:

  • What was her work experience before going out on her own?
  • Was there a business plan?
  • What’s it like working with her husband?
  • How did she establish the minimum of rooms she will do in a project?
  • What are the processes her business uses?
  • How is destination design different?
  • What are the biggest challenges in destination design?

For the rest of the resources, please visit http://windowworks-nj.com

 

Website: http://windowworks-nj.com

Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ

]]> 3457 no 63: Power Talk Friday: Tim Templeton- How To Create Profitable Referrals http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/63-power-talk-friday-tim-templeton-how-to-create-profitable-referrals Welcome to another power talk Friday! I have Tim Templeton with us today. Tim is the author of a referral of a lifetime in the Ken Blanchard series. Ken is a veteran executive entrepreneur, consultant, international best-selling author, speaker and lifelong learner. Tim and I are going to be talking about referrals. We will discuss how to get them, how to access them, how to ask for them and how to maximize them. I know from personal experience that this is something that entrepreneur’s struggle with. Show Notes: What is the importance of referrals? What is Tim’s philosophy? How did Tim meet Ken Blanchard? Is there an art to getting referrals? What process should you use to get a referral? How should you go about rebuilding a relationship? All referrals are not treated equally! What is a perfect client avatar? Resources: Tim’s Website:  consultinggold.com The Recognized Authority Always Positive in Your Business The Entrepreneur’s Handbook Vince Siciliano The Tipping Point Mark Levy www.thereferralbook.com    The Referral of a Lifetime Guide Book  www.thereferralofalifetime.com Fri, 19 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another power talk Friday! I have Tim Templeton with us today. Tim is the author of a referral of a lifetime in the Ken Blanchard series. Ken is a veteran executive entrepreneur, consultant, international best-selling author, speaker and... Welcome to another power talk Friday! I have Tim Templeton with us today. Tim is the author of a referral of a lifetime in the Ken Blanchard series. Ken is a veteran executive entrepreneur, consultant, international best-selling author, speaker and lifelong learner. Tim and I are going to be talking about referrals. We will discuss how to get them, how to access them, how to ask for them and how to maximize them. I know from personal experience that this is something that entrepreneur’s struggle with. Show Notes: What is the importance of referrals? What is Tim’s philosophy? How did Tim meet Ken Blanchard? Is there an art to getting referrals? What process should you use to get a referral? How should you go about rebuilding a relationship? All referrals are not treated equally! What is a perfect client avatar? Resources: Tim’s Website:  consultinggold.com The Recognized Authority Always Positive in Your Business The Entrepreneur’s Handbook Vince Siciliano The Tipping Point Mark Levy www.thereferralbook.com    The Referral of a Lifetime Guide Book  www.thereferralofalifetime.com Welcome to another power talk Friday! I have Tim Templeton with us today. Tim is the author of a referral of a lifetime in the Ken Blanchard series. Ken is a veteran executive entrepreneur, consultant, international best-selling author, speaker and lifelong learner. Tim and I are going to be talking about referrals. We will discuss how to get them, how to access them, how to ask for them and how to maximize them. I know from personal experience that this is something that entrepreneur’s struggle with.

Show Notes:

  • What is the importance of referrals?
  • What is Tim’s philosophy?
  • How did Tim meet Ken Blanchard?
  • Is there an art to getting referrals?
  • What process should you use to get a referral?
  • How should you go about rebuilding a relationship?
  • All referrals are not treated equally!
  • What is a perfect client avatar?

Resources:

Tim’s Website:  consultinggold.com

The Recognized Authority

Always Positive in Your Business

The Entrepreneur’s Handbook

Vince Siciliano

The Tipping Point

Mark Levy

www.thereferralbook.com   

The Referral of a Lifetime Guide Book  www.thereferralofalifetime.com

]]> 3186 no 62: Lori Sawaya- Land of color, Camp Chroma http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/62-lori-sawaya-land-of-color-camp-chroma Welcome back! Today we have Lori Sawaya! Lori has been in the business of color for over 20 years. She has a background working with print, architecture paint, and color. Her experience and knowledge enable her to make complex color concepts easy for everyone to understand. Today we are going to talk about color, what you should keep in mind when picking a color and new tools you can use when it comes to color. Show Notes: What is her opinion about color? What is spectral data? What is colorimetry? What are the most common color mistakes? Why is light so important? Have any mistakes been made? Be professional as you can! What new tools can be used? For  the rest of the show notes and resources please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com Wed, 17 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back! Today we have Lori Sawaya! Lori has been in the business of color for over 20 years. She has a background working with print, architecture paint, and color. Her experience and knowledge enable her to make complex color concepts easy for... Welcome back! Today we have Lori Sawaya! Lori has been in the business of color for over 20 years. She has a background working with print, architecture paint, and color. Her experience and knowledge enable her to make complex color concepts easy for everyone to understand. Today we are going to talk about color, what you should keep in mind when picking a color and new tools you can use when it comes to color. Show Notes: What is her opinion about color? What is spectral data? What is colorimetry? What are the most common color mistakes? Why is light so important? Have any mistakes been made? Be professional as you can! What new tools can be used? For  the rest of the show notes and resources please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com Welcome back! Today we have Lori Sawaya! Lori has been in the business of color for over 20 years. She has a background working with print, architecture paint, and color. Her experience and knowledge enable her to make complex color concepts easy for everyone to understand. Today we are going to talk about color, what you should keep in mind when picking a color and new tools you can use when it comes to color.

Show Notes:

  • What is her opinion about color?
  • What is spectral data?
  • What is colorimetry?
  • What are the most common color mistakes?
  • Why is light so important?
  • Have any mistakes been made?
  • Be professional as you can!
  • What new tools can be used?

For  the rest of the show notes and resources

please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 4209 no 61: Our 6th-month Anniversary Celebration http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/61-our-6th-month-anniversary-celebration   Hi!  Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today is the actual 6- month anniversary of the podcast and I thought I would do a solo show and reflect on The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. And then I am going to share with you, my Top 10 favorite podcasts. Now these are by no means the only things learned in these last 6 months and they are not even necessarily the absolute most important. And as a matter of fact, I have specifically not included the coaches and consultants on this list. Every one of the consultants I have had on has shared extremely valuable advice, but it is straightforward and easy to grasp listening to their interviews. Today I am concentrating on regular designers like you who have discovered something, implemented something and are by doing it have made improvements to their businesses. So are you ready? Sandra Funk Levy- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business ; Episode # 2.  Sandra is all about the systems, systems, systems. You need to get your systems locked down from hello through goodbye when the project is complete. That's just what Sandra Funk Levy has done at House of Funk. She has implemented very specific daily, weekly, monthly and yearly systems and goals.  She urges us to create processes because she knows 1st hand when you use them consistently you will improve your businesses bottom line. Link:    http://windowworks-nj.com/sandra/ Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching; Episode #55. Rachel acts as if 1000 eyeballs are on our on you because one day they will be. Rachel implores soloprenuers to do 2 things- handle your image and everything connected to it in the most professional way as if you were a big firm that everyone is watching but also and as important to run your firm as if you were a big guy. Respect your own work hours, implement systems that even if only you are using them will serve you one day when you have employees.Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/rachel/     Stephen Cooper episode # 31 Develop strong personal relationships with your vendors (The Value of a Trusted Vendor )  When you invite ethical vendors into the design process with your clients you have more productive meetings. The expert can in the moment make suggestions, which enhance your vision for the project. And a reliable vendor in the meeting can prevent you from spending hours designing concepts that cannot be executed.  Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/steven/    Susan Brunstrum -Practical Advice for Project Management, episode #36. Susan ends every client project with a three- step process. She sits down with her financial manager and they evaluate the project and runs a profit analysis- looking for errors and ways to be more profitable next time. She has a meeting with our entire staff evaluating the efficiency of the process for that particular project and they discuss what went right what went wrong how can they improve the next time. Lastly, she invites every single client out for lunch or dinner at the completion of the project to get their feedback and to say thank you to them for their business. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/susanb/   Farrha Hyman Success Story- How I Re-Designed my 15 Year Old Firm, Episode #43. Even a 15-year-old firm can turn around with the help of the right business coach and the biggest Takeaway from Sarah that you have to follow the advice of that business coach even when it pushes you out of your box. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/farrha/ Erica Ward Identifying Your Transferrable Skills (Getting real and evaluating yourself and what you bring to the table) episode # 6. Identify what are your transferable skills and hire opposite those skills. Barbara Viteri talked about the same type of thing and they both encourage you making a lists of: the things you’re good at the things you know how to do the things you like to do the thing you’re not good at the things you don’t know how to do the things you don’t like to do   then with the list that’s opposite of yours, you arrive at the qualifications that you’re looking for in your first hire.  Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/06-identifying-your-transferrable-skills-with-erika-ward/ 7. Nancy  Ganzekufer- Niche is Riche, Broad is Broke. Episode 15.  Countless examples, Cheryl Janis specializing in boutique healthcare spaces, Terri Lind Davis with her art and boomer focused design, Heather McManus with her video series and her book, I could go on…all of these designers and many more have created a niche so that they can stand apart from any other designer a prospective client might be contemplating. Andrew Joseph from Andrew Joseph PR said to us- discover what is your “you”, what is your essence, what makes you different from the others.   Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/nancy/  James Swan Meet the Man Behind The Million Dollar Decorating Podcast; Episode # 49 research and investigate first if the dream the desire you have for your firm is actually aligning with the way you want to live your life. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/james/ Merrill Santopietro How to Re-Invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years- Episode # 40 yes obviously be a go getter employ old-school techniques for drumming up business but most importantly show prospective clients the problem they have and why you are the answer the solution to the problem. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/meryl/ Mary Fisher . Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur episode #34 Mary taught us lots of things but I think the most poignant was that she said to make sure you take time every week to be in your own head to let your creativity flow from Mary it’s her art and expressing and creating new canvases new sculptures for me it’s exercise I wish I could run and write at the same time because the ideas come flowing on the single run or walk I go on. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/mary/ Top 10 podcasts I Listen to: The Chaise Lounge Biz Chix with Natalie Eckdahl Problogger Podcast Darren Rowse Happier With Gretchen Rubin Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield The Strong Women’s Club with Edie Berg Kate’s Take with Kate Erickson Fresh Air with Terri Gross The Leonard Lopate Show Stuff you missed in History Class Thank you so much, I hope you enjoyed this different episode. Please remember to connect with me on Facebook at www/facebook.com/windowworksnj, find all about Window Works at www.windowworks-nj.com and don’t forget about your 10% discount on your 1st  curatedkravet.com purchase. At checkout enter CKPODCAST Thanks so much, have a great day!     Mon, 15 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara (Designers who discovered and implemented Great Solutions for their Business)   Hi!  Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today is the actual 6- month anniversary of the podcast and I thought I would do a solo show and reflect on The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. And then I am going to share with you, my Top 10 favorite podcasts. Now these are by no means the only things learned in these last 6 months and they are not even necessarily the absolute most important. And as a matter of fact, I have specifically not included the coaches and consultants on this list. Every one of the consultants I have had on has shared extremely valuable advice, but it is straightforward and easy to grasp listening to their interviews. Today I am concentrating on regular designers like you who have discovered something, implemented something and are by doing it have made improvements to their businesses. So are you ready? Sandra Funk Levy- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business ; Episode # 2.  Sandra is all about the systems, systems, systems. You need to get your systems locked down from hello through goodbye when the project is complete. That's just what Sandra Funk Levy has done at House of Funk. She has implemented very specific daily, weekly, monthly and yearly systems and goals.  She urges us to create processes because she knows 1st hand when you use them consistently you will improve your businesses bottom line. Link:    http://windowworks-nj.com/sandra/ Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching; Episode #55. Rachel acts as if 1000 eyeballs are on our on you because one day they will be. Rachel implores soloprenuers to do 2 things- handle your image and everything connected to it in the most professional way as if you were a big firm that everyone is watching but also and as important to run your firm as if you were a big guy. Respect your own work hours, implement systems that even if only you are using them will serve you one day when you have employees.Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/rachel/     Stephen Cooper episode # 31 Develop strong personal relationships with your vendors (The Value of a Trusted Vendor )  When you invite ethical vendors into the design process with your clients you have more productive meetings. The expert can in the moment make suggestions, which enhance your vision for the project. And a reliable vendor in the meeting can prevent you from spending hours designing concepts that cannot be executed.  Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/steven/    Susan Brunstrum -Practical Advice for Project Management, episode #36. Susan ends every client project with a three- step process. She sits down with her financial manager and they evaluate the project and runs a profit analysis- looking for errors and ways to be more profitable next time. She has a meeting with our entire staff evaluating the efficiency of the process for that particular project and they discuss what went right what went wrong how can they improve the next time. Lastly, she invites every single client out for lunch or dinner at the completion of the project to get their feedback and to say thank you to them for their business. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/susanb/   Farrha Hyman Success Story- How I Re-Designed my 15 Year Old Firm, Episode #43. Even a 15-year-old firm can turn around with the help of the right business coach and the biggest Takeaway from Sarah that you have to follow the advice of that business coach even when it pushes you out of your box. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/farrha/ Erica Ward Identifying Your Transferrable Skills (Getting real and evaluating yourself and what you bring to the table) episode # 6. Identify what are your transferable skills and hire opposite those skills. Barbara Viteri talked about the same type of thing and they both encourage you making a lists of: the things you’re good at the things you know how to do the things you like to do the thing you’re not good at the things you don’t know how to do the things you don’t like to do   then with the list that’s opposite of yours, you arrive at the qualifications that you’re looking for in your first hire.  Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/06-identifying-your-transferrable-skills-with-erika-ward/ 7. Nancy  Ganzekufer- Niche is Riche, Broad is Broke. Episode 15.  Countless examples, Cheryl Janis specializing in boutique healthcare spaces, Terri Lind Davis with her art and boomer focused design, Heather McManus with her video series and her book, I could go on…all of these designers and many more have created a niche so that they can stand apart from any other designer a prospective client might be contemplating. Andrew Joseph from Andrew Joseph PR said to us- discover what is your “you”, what is your essence, what makes you different from the others.   Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/nancy/  James Swan Meet the Man Behind The Million Dollar Decorating Podcast; Episode # 49 research and investigate first if the dream the desire you have for your firm is actually aligning with the way you want to live your life. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/james/ Merrill Santopietro How to Re-Invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years- Episode # 40 yes obviously be a go getter employ old-school techniques for drumming up business but most importantly show prospective clients the problem they have and why you are the answer the solution to the problem. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/meryl/ Mary Fisher . Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur episode #34 Mary taught us lots of things but I think the most poignant was that she said to make sure you take time every week to be in your own head to let your creativity flow from Mary it’s her art and expressing and creating new canvases new sculptures for me it’s exercise I wish I could run and write at the same time because the ideas come flowing on the single run or walk I go on. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/mary/ Top 10 podcasts I Listen to: The Chaise Lounge Biz Chix with Natalie Eckdahl Problogger Podcast Darren Rowse Happier With Gretchen Rubin Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield The Strong Women’s Club with Edie Berg Kate’s Take with Kate Erickson Fresh Air with Terri Gross The Leonard Lopate Show Stuff you missed in History Class Thank you so much, I hope you enjoyed this different episode. Please remember to connect with me on Facebook at www/facebook.com/windowworksnj, find all about Window Works at www.windowworks-nj.com and don’t forget about your 10% discount on your 1st  curatedkravet.com purchase. At checkout enter CKPODCAST Thanks so much, have a great day!      

Hi!  Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today is the actual 6- month anniversary of the podcast and I thought I would do a solo show and reflect on The Things I Learned From A Well-Designed Business. And then I am going to share with you, my Top 10 favorite podcasts.

Now these are by no means the only things learned in these last 6 months and they are not even necessarily the absolute most important. And as a matter of fact, I have specifically not included the coaches and consultants on this list. Every one of the consultants I have had on has shared extremely valuable advice, but it is straightforward and easy to grasp listening to their interviews. Today I am concentrating on regular designers like you who have discovered something, implemented something and are by doing it have made improvements to their businesses. So are you ready?

  1. Sandra Funk Levy- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business ; Episode # 2.  Sandra is all about the systems, systems, systems. You need to get your systems locked down from hello through goodbye when the project is complete. That's just what Sandra Funk Levy has done at House of Funk. She has implemented very specific daily, weekly, monthly and yearly systems and goals.  She urges us to create processes because she knows 1st hand when you use them consistently you will improve your businesses bottom line. Link:    http://windowworks-nj.com/sandra/
  2. Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching; Episode #55. Rachel acts as if 1000 eyeballs are on our on you because one day they will be. Rachel implores soloprenuers to do 2 things- handle your image and everything connected to it in the most professional way as if you were a big firm that everyone is watching but also and as important to run your firm as if you were a big guy. Respect your own work hours, implement systems that even if only you are using them will serve you one day when you have employees.Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/rachel/  
  3.   Stephen Cooper episode # 31 Develop strong personal relationships with your vendors (The Value of a Trusted Vendor )  When you invite ethical vendors into the design process with your clients you have more productive meetings. The expert can in the moment make suggestions, which enhance your vision for the project. And a reliable vendor in the meeting can prevent you from spending hours designing concepts that cannot be executed.  Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/steven/  
  4.  Susan Brunstrum -Practical Advice for Project Management, episode #36. Susan ends every client project with a three- step process. She sits down with her financial manager and they evaluate the project and runs a profit analysis- looking for errors and ways to be more profitable next time. She has a meeting with our entire staff evaluating the efficiency of the process for that particular project and they discuss what went right what went wrong how can they improve the next time. Lastly, she invites every single client out for lunch or dinner at the completion of the project to get their feedback and to say thank you to them for their business. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/susanb/ 
  5.  Farrha Hyman Success Story- How I Re-Designed my 15 Year Old Firm, Episode #43. Even a 15-year-old firm can turn around with the help of the right business coach and the biggest Takeaway from Sarah that you have to follow the advice of that business coach even when it pushes you out of your box. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/farrha/
  1. Erica Ward Identifying Your Transferrable Skills (Getting real and evaluating yourself and what you bring to the table) episode # 6. Identify what are your transferable skills and hire opposite those skills. Barbara Viteri talked about the same type of thing and they both encourage you making a lists of:
  • the things you’re good at
  • the things you know how to do
  • the things you like to do
  • the thing you’re not good at
  • the things you don’t know how to do
  • the things you don’t like to do  

then with the list that’s opposite of yours, you arrive at the qualifications that you’re looking for in your first hire.  Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/06-identifying-your-transferrable-skills-with-erika-ward/

7. Nancy  Ganzekufer- Niche is Riche, Broad is Broke. Episode 15.  Countless examples, Cheryl Janis specializing in boutique healthcare spaces, Terri Lind Davis with her art and boomer focused design, Heather McManus with her video series and her book, I could go on…all of these designers and many more have created a niche so that they can stand apart from any other designer a prospective client might be contemplating. Andrew Joseph from Andrew Joseph PR said to us- discover what is your “you”, what is your essence, what makes you different from the others.   Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/nancy/ 

  1. James Swan Meet the Man Behind The Million Dollar Decorating Podcast; Episode # 49 research and investigate first if the dream the desire you have for your firm is actually aligning with the way you want to live your life. Link:  http://windowworks-nj.com/james/
  1. Merrill Santopietro How to Re-Invent, Revitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years- Episode # 40 yes obviously be a go getter employ old-school techniques for drumming up business but most importantly show prospective clients the problem they have and why you are the answer the solution to the problem. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/meryl/
  1. Mary Fisher . Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur episode #34 Mary taught us lots of things but I think the most poignant was that she said to make sure you take time every week to be in your own head to let your creativity flow from Mary it’s her art and expressing and creating new canvases new sculptures for me it’s exercise I wish I could run and write at the same time because the ideas come flowing on the single run or walk I go on. Link: http://windowworks-nj.com/mary/

Top 10 podcasts I Listen to:

  1. The Chaise Lounge
  2. Biz Chix with Natalie Eckdahl
  3. Problogger Podcast Darren Rowse
  4. Happier With Gretchen Rubin
  5. Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield
  6. The Strong Women’s Club with Edie Berg
  7. Kate’s Take with Kate Erickson
  8. Fresh Air with Terri Gross
  9. The Leonard Lopate Show
  10. Stuff you missed in History Class

Thank you so much, I hope you enjoyed this different episode. Please remember to connect with me on Facebook at www/facebook.com/windowworksnj, find all about Window Works at www.windowworks-nj.com and don’t forget about your 10% discount on your 1st  curatedkravet.com purchase. At checkout enter CKPODCAST

Thanks so much, have a great day!

 

 

]]> 2245 no 60: Power Talk Friday - Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/59-power-talk-friday-krista-coupar-managing-work-life-balance-the-key-questions-to-ask-yourself It’s power talk Friday! Krista Coupar is with us again! Today she is to talk with us about work-life balance. The key questions we need to ask ourselves to arrive at this perfect equation. Show Notes: Are hours wanting to work and amount of money wanting to make realistic? How do you make more money working less hours? Math vs finance Why is it so important to simplify? Why is it important to understand the seasons in interior design? For the rest of the Show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com Fri, 12 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara It’s power talk Friday! Krista Coupar is with us again! Today she is to talk with us about work-life balance. The key questions we need to ask ourselves to arrive at this perfect equation. Show Notes: Are hours wanting to work and amount of... It’s power talk Friday! Krista Coupar is with us again! Today she is to talk with us about work-life balance. The key questions we need to ask ourselves to arrive at this perfect equation. Show Notes: Are hours wanting to work and amount of money wanting to make realistic? How do you make more money working less hours? Math vs finance Why is it so important to simplify? Why is it important to understand the seasons in interior design? For the rest of the Show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com It’s power talk Friday! Krista Coupar is with us again! Today she is to talk with us about work-life balance. The key questions we need to ask ourselves to arrive at this perfect equation.

Show Notes:

  • Are hours wanting to work and amount of money wanting to make realistic?
  • How do you make more money working less hours?
  • Math vs finance
  • Why is it so important to simplify?
  • Why is it important to understand the seasons in interior design?

For the rest of the Show notes, please visit: http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 1925 no 59: A Special Visit with the Sr. Director of Merchandising for CuratedKravet.com http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/58-a-special-visit-with-the-sr-director-of-merchandising-for-curatedkravetcom Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com! Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms.   Will Hunt's previous experience includes One Kings Lane as Buyer of Furniture, and Jonathan Adler where he oversaw all aspects of merchandise planning for all distribution channels.  Prior to moving to New York, he owned his own home furnishings and gift retail store in Mississippi.   For the rest of the Show notes, please visit our website:  Website: http://windowworks-nj.com   If you haven't subscribed yet, please visit our social media at:  Instagram:    http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ Wed, 10 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few... Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com! Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms.   Will Hunt's previous experience includes One Kings Lane as Buyer of Furniture, and Jonathan Adler where he oversaw all aspects of merchandise planning for all distribution channels.  Prior to moving to New York, he owned his own home furnishings and gift retail store in Mississippi.   For the rest of the Show notes, please visit our website:  Website: http://windowworks-nj.com   If you haven't subscribed yet, please visit our social media at:  Instagram:    http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ Guess what? This is our six month anniversary! I have two very special shows for you this week. The first show we are going to meet one of the masterminds behind the fabulous curatedkravet.com platform. Curatedkravet.com is celebrating a few milestones of its own. This spring marked the one year anniversary of the hugely successful curatedkravet.com!

Our special guest today is Will Hunt Lewis, Senior Director of Merchandising of curatedkravet.com! In this position, he oversees all business done with merchandising and product development for all product category. Today Will Hunt and I are going to talk all curatedkravet.com from quality, delivering times, to the designers that curate the rooms.

 

Will Hunt's previous experience includes One Kings Lane as Buyer of Furniture, and Jonathan Adler where he oversaw all aspects of merchandise planning for all distribution channels.  Prior to moving to New York, he owned his own home furnishings and gift retail store in Mississippi.

 

For the rest of the Show notes, please visit our website: 

Website: http://windowworks-nj.com

 

If you haven't subscribed yet, please visit our social media at: 

Instagram:    http://instagram.com/windowworks

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ

]]> 3321 no 58: Maria Killam: Color-When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/58-maria-killam-color-when-you-can-own-it-as-an-expertise-you-can-charge-higher-fees Maria Killam is the founder and CEO of Understanding Undertones of Colour. She's a decorator, author, speaker and internationally sought-after Colour Expert. Transform the way you see color at http://www.mariakillam.com Maria's has 5 Fall Specify Colour with Confidence™ workshops scheduled, get all the information about what they include and upcoming dates here.   If you want to learn Maria's system of Understanding Undertones and finally get your paint colours and finishes right, go here. Maria's second ebook White is Complicated: A Decorator's Guide to Choosing the Right White takes the mystery out of the thousands of whites available and you end up with the 5 useful whites that you'll use every time you need to specify a white for trim, cabinets, woodwork and walls.    Choosing exterior colour this season? Maria's How to Choose Exterior Colours with Confidence 60-minute webinar will give you a step-by-step process and includes Maria's go-to exterior colours.   For more expert tips, visit: http://windowworks-nj.com   Join us on:    Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ     Mon, 08 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Maria Killam is the founder and CEO of Understanding Undertones of Colour. She's a decorator, author, speaker and internationally sought-after Colour Expert. Transform the way you see color at  Maria's has 5 Fall Specify... Maria Killam is the founder and CEO of Understanding Undertones of Colour. She's a decorator, author, speaker and internationally sought-after Colour Expert. Transform the way you see color at http://www.mariakillam.com Maria's has 5 Fall Specify Colour with Confidence™ workshops scheduled, get all the information about what they include and upcoming dates here.   If you want to learn Maria's system of Understanding Undertones and finally get your paint colours and finishes right, go here. Maria's second ebook White is Complicated: A Decorator's Guide to Choosing the Right White takes the mystery out of the thousands of whites available and you end up with the 5 useful whites that you'll use every time you need to specify a white for trim, cabinets, woodwork and walls.    Choosing exterior colour this season? Maria's How to Choose Exterior Colours with Confidence 60-minute webinar will give you a step-by-step process and includes Maria's go-to exterior colours.   For more expert tips, visit: http://windowworks-nj.com   Join us on:    Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ     Maria Killam is the founder and CEO of Understanding Undertones of Colour. She's a decorator, author, speaker and internationally sought-after Colour Expert. Transform the way you see color at http://www.mariakillam.com

Maria's has 5 Fall Specify Colour with Confidence™ workshops scheduled, get all the information about what they include and upcoming dates here.

 

If you want to learn Maria's system of Understanding Undertones and finally get your paint colours and finishes right, go here. Maria's second ebook White is Complicated: A Decorator's Guide to Choosing the Right White takes the mystery out of the thousands of whites available and you end up with the 5 useful whites that you'll use every time you need to specify a white for trim, cabinets, woodwork and walls. 

 

Choosing exterior colour this season? Maria's How to Choose Exterior Colours with Confidence 60-minute webinar will give you a step-by-step process and includes Maria's go-to exterior colours.

 

For more expert tips, visit:

http://windowworks-nj.com

 

Join us on: 

 

Instagram:   http://instagram.com/windowworks

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/WindowWorks_NJ

 

 

]]> 3688 no 57: Power Talk Friday - Alice Seale - Thinking About Leasing or Buying a Studio Space? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/57-power-talk-friday-alice-seale-thinking-about-leasing-or-buying-a-studio-space Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! My guest today is Alice Seale, who has over 30 years entrepreneurial experience as a realtor in the retail design industry. She is the founder of Seale Realty Advisors in the Dallas area. Alice has co-authored the book, Winning Ways in Real Estate. She has great advice for entrepreneurs. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: Alice’s path to real estate in retail design What to look for in a realtor How a design center is born and developed The mix of wholesale and retail How Alice spots the trends in “pop-up” design centers Rent or buy? How do you decide? Alice tells you what questions to ask up front HVAC—why you MUST pay attention! Watch expenses on taxes and insurance! Consider leasing with an option Ask for any accommodations up front Find a realtor who has YOUR best interests in mind Why renting is a good option to start out in business Know what’s going on in your city and its development How to know when it’s the RIGHT time to purchase How to ask your landlord to “put some skin in the game” Make a wish list of renovations and negotiate adding value to the property Establish financial relationships early: Be a PERSON at the bank and not just an account number! Consider obtaining a letter of credit instead of paying a large security deposit Why Alice recommends that you have a female banker Get all the details from Alice here: http://windowworks-nj.com/alice-seale Fri, 05 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! My guest today is Alice Seale, who has over 30 years entrepreneurial experience as a realtor in the retail design industry. She is the founder of Seale Realty Advisors in the Dallas area. Alice has co-authored the... Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! My guest today is Alice Seale, who has over 30 years entrepreneurial experience as a realtor in the retail design industry. She is the founder of Seale Realty Advisors in the Dallas area. Alice has co-authored the book, Winning Ways in Real Estate. She has great advice for entrepreneurs. Join us! What you’ll hear in this episode: Alice’s path to real estate in retail design What to look for in a realtor How a design center is born and developed The mix of wholesale and retail How Alice spots the trends in “pop-up” design centers Rent or buy? How do you decide? Alice tells you what questions to ask up front HVAC—why you MUST pay attention! Watch expenses on taxes and insurance! Consider leasing with an option Ask for any accommodations up front Find a realtor who has YOUR best interests in mind Why renting is a good option to start out in business Know what’s going on in your city and its development How to know when it’s the RIGHT time to purchase How to ask your landlord to “put some skin in the game” Make a wish list of renovations and negotiate adding value to the property Establish financial relationships early: Be a PERSON at the bank and not just an account number! Consider obtaining a letter of credit instead of paying a large security deposit Why Alice recommends that you have a female banker Get all the details from Alice here: http://windowworks-nj.com/alice-seale Welcome to another Power Talk Friday! My guest today is Alice Seale, who has over 30 years entrepreneurial experience as a realtor in the retail design industry. She is the founder of Seale Realty Advisors in the Dallas area. Alice has co-authored the book, Winning Ways in Real Estate. She has great advice for entrepreneurs. Join us!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • Alice’s path to real estate in retail design
  • What to look for in a realtor
  • How a design center is born and developed
  • The mix of wholesale and retail
  • How Alice spots the trends in “pop-up” design centers
  • Rent or buy? How do you decide?
  • Alice tells you what questions to ask up front
  • HVAC—why you MUST pay attention!
  • Watch expenses on taxes and insurance!
  • Consider leasing with an option
  • Ask for any accommodations up front
  • Find a realtor who has YOUR best interests in mind
  • Why renting is a good option to start out in business
  • Know what’s going on in your city and its development
  • How to know when it’s the RIGHT time to purchase
  • How to ask your landlord to “put some skin in the game”
  • Make a wish list of renovations and negotiate adding value to the property
  • Establish financial relationships early: Be a PERSON at the bank and not just an account number!
  • Consider obtaining a letter of credit instead of paying a large security deposit
  • Why Alice recommends that you have a female banker

Get all the details from Alice here: http://windowworks-nj.com/alice-seale

]]> 2818 no 56: Terri Lind Davis- 2 Ways to Build Your Pipeline http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/56-terri-lind-davis-2-ways-to-build-your-pipeline   Hi, welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! If you are a loyal listener—thank you for tuning in again! And whether you are new or returning, please go over to our Facebook page and like us there so you can be a part  of the conversation, to be in the know about all things A Well-Designed Business podcast and Window Works. Find us at www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   So on the show today you will meet Terri Lind Davis from Tampa Florida. Terri has 30+ year career in interior design and today we discuss the path her business has taken. From the beginning right out of college to today where she is revitalizing her business with a return to one of her passions and talents, painting. It’s sort of a memory lane conversation but see if you can identify the 2 major things in her career that have created and sustained a pipeline of clients for her in 2 Florida cities over 30+ years… So stay put, I’m going to tell you about Kravet Inc, our show sponsor and then we’ll meet Terri. So what were Terri’s 2 pipeline builders? They were the position at the high-end furniture store and the years associated with the luxury homebuilder. Both of these not only brought in clients in real time, they both resulted in repeat business with these clients and referrals from those clients year after year, long after she left the store and after the builder retired. And you know what I’m thinking? While Terri didn’t necessarily strategically plan her 2 pipeline builders, you certainly could. If you are starting out, could you work part-time at a luxury furniture showroom or a kitchen showroom, a tile showroom? Somewhere you could meet a new stream of potential clients? Of course  you would be up front and discuss policies with the owner but as Terri said, it is good for them too…you can agree to bring any purchases of their product line back to the store…win-win for both of you. Or another avenue is to reach out to builders and realtors…And don’t just send a card or a packet…make a meeting, explain you want to develop a long-term relationship with them that brings value to their clients. Explain that they can proudly tell their clients they are associated with a talented, trusted interior designer to help them with their new home purchase. Paint the picture for the builder or realtor so they can see the relationship and how all 3 parties involved- you, them and the client are enhanced by their suggestion to use your services… Do either of these sound like something you could do? I’d love know if you do one or the other. Go to our Facebook page and tell about what you did and how it went. If you hit a roadblock, let me know that too, maybe I can help you through it. Terri had a few more words of wisdom earned over her career so go over to www.windowworks-nj.com/terri-davis for your free pdf of The Things I Learned From Terri Davis.   Remember to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, FB and let me know when you use the lessons from our talented guests. Have a great day! Wed, 03 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara   Hi, welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! If you are a loyal listener—thank you for tuning in again! And whether you are new or returning, please go over to our Facebook page and like us there so you can be a part  of...   Hi, welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! If you are a loyal listener—thank you for tuning in again! And whether you are new or returning, please go over to our Facebook page and like us there so you can be a part  of the conversation, to be in the know about all things A Well-Designed Business podcast and Window Works. Find us at www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   So on the show today you will meet Terri Lind Davis from Tampa Florida. Terri has 30+ year career in interior design and today we discuss the path her business has taken. From the beginning right out of college to today where she is revitalizing her business with a return to one of her passions and talents, painting. It’s sort of a memory lane conversation but see if you can identify the 2 major things in her career that have created and sustained a pipeline of clients for her in 2 Florida cities over 30+ years… So stay put, I’m going to tell you about Kravet Inc, our show sponsor and then we’ll meet Terri. So what were Terri’s 2 pipeline builders? They were the position at the high-end furniture store and the years associated with the luxury homebuilder. Both of these not only brought in clients in real time, they both resulted in repeat business with these clients and referrals from those clients year after year, long after she left the store and after the builder retired. And you know what I’m thinking? While Terri didn’t necessarily strategically plan her 2 pipeline builders, you certainly could. If you are starting out, could you work part-time at a luxury furniture showroom or a kitchen showroom, a tile showroom? Somewhere you could meet a new stream of potential clients? Of course  you would be up front and discuss policies with the owner but as Terri said, it is good for them too…you can agree to bring any purchases of their product line back to the store…win-win for both of you. Or another avenue is to reach out to builders and realtors…And don’t just send a card or a packet…make a meeting, explain you want to develop a long-term relationship with them that brings value to their clients. Explain that they can proudly tell their clients they are associated with a talented, trusted interior designer to help them with their new home purchase. Paint the picture for the builder or realtor so they can see the relationship and how all 3 parties involved- you, them and the client are enhanced by their suggestion to use your services… Do either of these sound like something you could do? I’d love know if you do one or the other. Go to our Facebook page and tell about what you did and how it went. If you hit a roadblock, let me know that too, maybe I can help you through it. Terri had a few more words of wisdom earned over her career so go over to www.windowworks-nj.com/terri-davis for your free pdf of The Things I Learned From Terri Davis.   Remember to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, FB and let me know when you use the lessons from our talented guests. Have a great day!  

Hi, welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! If you are a loyal listener—thank you for tuning in again!

And whether you are new or returning, please go over to our Facebook page and like us there so you can be a part  of the conversation, to be in the know about all things A Well-Designed Business podcast and Window Works. Find us at www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

 

So on the show today you will meet Terri Lind Davis from Tampa Florida. Terri has 30+ year career in interior design and today we discuss the path her business has taken. From the beginning right out of college to today where she is revitalizing her business with a return to one of her passions and talents, painting.

It’s sort of a memory lane conversation but see if you can identify the 2 major things in her career that have created and sustained a pipeline of clients for her in 2 Florida cities over 30+ years…

So stay put, I’m going to tell you about Kravet Inc, our show sponsor and then we’ll meet Terri.

So what were Terri’s 2 pipeline builders?

They were the position at the high-end furniture store and the years associated with the luxury homebuilder. Both of these not only brought in clients in real time, they both resulted in repeat business with these clients and referrals from those clients year after year, long after she left the store and after the builder retired.

And you know what I’m thinking?

While Terri didn’t necessarily strategically plan her 2 pipeline builders, you certainly could. If you are starting out, could you work part-time at a luxury furniture showroom or a kitchen showroom, a tile showroom? Somewhere you could meet a new stream of potential clients? Of course  you would be up front and discuss policies with the owner but as Terri said, it is good for them too…you can agree to bring any purchases of their product line back to the store…win-win for both of you.

Or another avenue is to reach out to builders and realtors…And don’t just send a card or a packet…make a meeting, explain you want to develop a long-term relationship with them that brings value to their clients. Explain that they can proudly tell their clients they are associated with a talented, trusted interior designer to help them with their new home purchase.

Paint the picture for the builder or realtor so they can see the relationship and how all 3 parties involved- you, them and the client are enhanced by their suggestion to use your services…

Do either of these sound like something you could do? I’d love know if you do one or the other. Go to our Facebook page and tell about what you did and how it went. If you hit a roadblock, let me know that too, maybe I can help you through it.

Terri had a few more words of wisdom earned over her career so go over to www.windowworks-nj.com/terri-davis for your free pdf of The Things I Learned From Terri Davis.

 

Remember to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, FB and let me know when you use the lessons from our talented guests.

Have a great day!

]]> 3961 no 55: Rachel Moriarty - Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/54-rachel-moriarty-message-to-solopreneurs-act-as-if-the-world-is-watching Today I would like to introduce, dare I say my first fan: Rachel Moriarty! She has been so supportive from the beginning on social media. I would like to give her a huge THANK YOU! One of the conversations that we had on social media about more episodes with solo entrepreneur shops and firms. It’s nice to show appreciation for the big influencers on the show. We can see where a business can go. But we need to take the time to also have good conversations with people who run fabulous businesses all by themselves. Show Notes: What was Rachel’s motivation to talk about solo entrepreneurs? What is a creative entrepreneur mindset? What kind of systems and programs does she use? What is a “work jam”? What is her design process? Why “Go Red for Women”? Who does her photography? Look vs feel in a room What advice does she have for new entrepreneurs? Please visit  http://windowworks-nj.com for the full episode and show notes.  Mon, 01 Aug 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today I would like to introduce, dare I say my first fan: Rachel Moriarty! She has been so supportive from the beginning on social media. I would like to give her a huge THANK YOU! One of the conversations that we had on social media about more... Today I would like to introduce, dare I say my first fan: Rachel Moriarty! She has been so supportive from the beginning on social media. I would like to give her a huge THANK YOU! One of the conversations that we had on social media about more episodes with solo entrepreneur shops and firms. It’s nice to show appreciation for the big influencers on the show. We can see where a business can go. But we need to take the time to also have good conversations with people who run fabulous businesses all by themselves. Show Notes: What was Rachel’s motivation to talk about solo entrepreneurs? What is a creative entrepreneur mindset? What kind of systems and programs does she use? What is a “work jam”? What is her design process? Why “Go Red for Women”? Who does her photography? Look vs feel in a room What advice does she have for new entrepreneurs? Please visit  http://windowworks-nj.com for the full episode and show notes.  Today I would like to introduce, dare I say my first fan: Rachel Moriarty! She has been so supportive from the beginning on social media. I would like to give her a huge THANK YOU! One of the conversations that we had on social media about more episodes with solo entrepreneur shops and firms. It’s nice to show appreciation for the big influencers on the show. We can see where a business can go. But we need to take the time to also have good conversations with people who run fabulous businesses all by themselves.

Show Notes:

  • What was Rachel’s motivation to talk about solo entrepreneurs?
  • What is a creative entrepreneur mindset?
  • What kind of systems and programs does she use?
  • What is a “work jam”?
  • What is her design process?
  • Why “Go Red for Women”?
  • Who does her photography?
  • Look vs feel in a room
  • What advice does she have for new entrepreneurs?

Please visit 

http://windowworks-nj.com for the full episode and show notes. 

]]> 3343 no 54: Power Talk Friday - Diane Gardner- What is a Tax Coach and Why You Need One http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/power-talk-friday-diane-gardner-what-is-a-tax-coach-and-why-you-need-one Diane Gardner is a tax coach and the author of Why Didn't My CPA Tell Me That? and Stop Overpaying Your Taxes. You are going to be blown away today by the information Diane shares. She saves her clients thousands of dollars in taxes with every consultation. Many times we look backward in dealing with our taxes, and a tax coach looks at the future and plans it exactly how you want to be. In this episode you will learn: What is a tax coach and why do you need one How you can plan where your tax liability be Why your accountant isn't your tax coach Why tax filing is different than tax planning How your legal entity can make you pay less in taxes Why it's almost a guarantee that you are paying too much in taxes Resources:   Website: http://www.adeptbusiness.biz/index.php   Book:  Stop Overpaying Your Taxes Fri, 29 Jul 2016 12:16:42 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Diane Gardner is a tax coach and the author of Why Didn't My CPA Tell Me That? and Stop Overpaying Your Taxes. You are going to be blown away today by the information Diane shares. She saves her clients thousands of dollars in taxes with every... Diane Gardner is a tax coach and the author of Why Didn't My CPA Tell Me That? and Stop Overpaying Your Taxes. You are going to be blown away today by the information Diane shares. She saves her clients thousands of dollars in taxes with every consultation. Many times we look backward in dealing with our taxes, and a tax coach looks at the future and plans it exactly how you want to be. In this episode you will learn: What is a tax coach and why do you need one How you can plan where your tax liability be Why your accountant isn't your tax coach Why tax filing is different than tax planning How your legal entity can make you pay less in taxes Why it's almost a guarantee that you are paying too much in taxes Resources:   Website: http://www.adeptbusiness.biz/index.php   Book:  Stop Overpaying Your Taxes Diane Gardner is a tax coach and the author of Why Didn't My CPA Tell Me That? and Stop Overpaying Your Taxes. You are going to be blown away today by the information Diane shares. She saves her clients thousands of dollars in taxes with every consultation. Many times we look backward in dealing with our taxes, and a tax coach looks at the future and plans it exactly how you want to be.

In this episode you will learn:

  • What is a tax coach and why do you need one
  • How you can plan where your tax liability be
  • Why your accountant isn't your tax coach
  • Why tax filing is different than tax planning
  • How your legal entity can make you pay less in taxes
  • Why it's almost a guarantee that you are paying too much in taxes

Resources:

 

Website: http://www.adeptbusiness.biz/index.php   Book:  Stop Overpaying Your Taxes]]> 2383 no 53: Deb Barrett - How Make the Most of Your Trip to High Point Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/53-deb-barrett-how-make-the-most-of-your-trip-to-high-point-market Today we are going to talk about going to market with Deb Barrett! She specializes in a niche for attending the different furniture and accessory markets: High Point and different markets around the world. Now she is specializing in bringing groups to these markets so that they have the best experience at market as opposed to walking in circles and not knowing where to go. Today we are very lucky because high point is about two and a half months away! This is a great time to listen to Deb with her expertise and knowledge on how to make the best of attending markets in general but we are going to be talking about High Point because it’s coming up soon. Show Notes: Why should people attend High Point? What is High Point? How do you know if you should go to High Point? How should you go about pre-planning? How is High Point divided? What advantages come with registering? Why would designers want to think about expanding internationally? Be up to date on business etiquette For more details on this episode, please go to:  http://windowworks-nj.com Wed, 27 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we are going to talk about going to market with Deb Barrett! She specializes in a niche for attending the different furniture and accessory markets: High Point and different markets around the world. Now she is specializing in bringing groups to... Today we are going to talk about going to market with Deb Barrett! She specializes in a niche for attending the different furniture and accessory markets: High Point and different markets around the world. Now she is specializing in bringing groups to these markets so that they have the best experience at market as opposed to walking in circles and not knowing where to go. Today we are very lucky because high point is about two and a half months away! This is a great time to listen to Deb with her expertise and knowledge on how to make the best of attending markets in general but we are going to be talking about High Point because it’s coming up soon. Show Notes: Why should people attend High Point? What is High Point? How do you know if you should go to High Point? How should you go about pre-planning? How is High Point divided? What advantages come with registering? Why would designers want to think about expanding internationally? Be up to date on business etiquette For more details on this episode, please go to:  http://windowworks-nj.com Today we are going to talk about going to market with Deb Barrett! She specializes in a niche for attending the different furniture and accessory markets: High Point and different markets around the world. Now she is specializing in bringing groups to these markets so that they have the best experience at market as opposed to walking in circles and not knowing where to go. Today we are very lucky because high point is about two and a half months away! This is a great time to listen to Deb with her expertise and knowledge on how to make the best of attending markets in general but we are going to be talking about High Point because it’s coming up soon.

Show Notes:

  • Why should people attend High Point?
  • What is High Point?
  • How do you know if you should go to High Point?
  • How should you go about pre-planning?
  • How is High Point divided?
  • What advantages come with registering?
  • Why would designers want to think about expanding internationally?
  • Be up to date on business etiquette

For more details on this episode, please go to:  http://windowworks-nj.com

]]> 4220 no 52: Turning the Tables - An Interview with LuAnn http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/52-turning-the-tables-an-interview-with-luann LuAnn Nigara is an award winning window treatment authority, author, and host of the 5 star-rated podcast, A Well-Designed Business, which serves the design industry as an overall business dynamo. Based in Livingston, New Jersey, LuAnn got her start in 1982 when she, her husband, and cousin, purchased a franchise of the Florida based, full service window treatment company, Window Works. With LuAnn at the helm of sales, they quickly expanded from New Jersey to serving the entire metro area from Philadelphia, to the Hamptons to Connecticut and became the leading showroom in gross sales of the more than 120 stores Window Works stores around the country. “I have always been fascinated by sales and the components of a sale,” explains LuAnn, who brings an unmatched passion and expertise to the business of window design. “At ten years old my Aunt gave me the book, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino and I quickly looked for every book like it. That was the beginning of what became my obsession with the art and skill of the sale.” Soon after running Window Works leading franchise, LuAnn thought of something no one else had: Why not work directly with interior designers? “Back then I thumbed through the phonebook,” laughs LuAnn who recalls cold calling designers and asking them to partner with her. Today, she counts Sussan Lari Architects, Alexandra Angle Interiors in Los Angeles, Anyon Designs (San Francisco), House of Funk in NJ, Pembrooke & Ives and Charles Pavarini as clients. After more than thirty years of designing, creating and installing window treatments for the most discerning clients, LuAnn is now recognized as a leading voice in the business of design. In addition to speaking at the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID-NJ) and the world-renown Hunter Douglas conference, she is regularly called on by Design NJ as a resource. She’s been featured in Design NJ and appeared on House Smarts TV. In 2012, LuAnn authored the e-book, 10 Things to Know About Window Treatments and was featured in Big Bold Business Women of NJ. In the summer of 2015, LuAnn was searching for radio shows that spoke of her interest in the business of design--and found nothing. That was her “Ah Ha! Moment” and she decided to start a podcast. Today, she hosts a weekly 60-minute podcast ‘A Well-Designed Business.’ The twice weekly Internet show features in depth conversations with industry professionals on just about every subject on the business of interior design, from “Branding for Designers” “How to Get PR,” and How to Structure your Fees. LuAnn lives in New Jersey with her husband. After more than three decades in business, she has no plans to stop any time soon. Learn more about Luann and her work here: http://windowworks-nj.com   Connect with her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   Mon, 25 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Nigara is an award winning window treatment authority, author, and host of the 5 star-rated podcast, A Well-Designed Business, which serves the design industry as an overall business dynamo. Based in Livingston, New Jersey, LuAnn got her start... LuAnn Nigara is an award winning window treatment authority, author, and host of the 5 star-rated podcast, A Well-Designed Business, which serves the design industry as an overall business dynamo. Based in Livingston, New Jersey, LuAnn got her start in 1982 when she, her husband, and cousin, purchased a franchise of the Florida based, full service window treatment company, Window Works. With LuAnn at the helm of sales, they quickly expanded from New Jersey to serving the entire metro area from Philadelphia, to the Hamptons to Connecticut and became the leading showroom in gross sales of the more than 120 stores Window Works stores around the country. “I have always been fascinated by sales and the components of a sale,” explains LuAnn, who brings an unmatched passion and expertise to the business of window design. “At ten years old my Aunt gave me the book, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino and I quickly looked for every book like it. That was the beginning of what became my obsession with the art and skill of the sale.” Soon after running Window Works leading franchise, LuAnn thought of something no one else had: Why not work directly with interior designers? “Back then I thumbed through the phonebook,” laughs LuAnn who recalls cold calling designers and asking them to partner with her. Today, she counts Sussan Lari Architects, Alexandra Angle Interiors in Los Angeles, Anyon Designs (San Francisco), House of Funk in NJ, Pembrooke & Ives and Charles Pavarini as clients. After more than thirty years of designing, creating and installing window treatments for the most discerning clients, LuAnn is now recognized as a leading voice in the business of design. In addition to speaking at the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID-NJ) and the world-renown Hunter Douglas conference, she is regularly called on by Design NJ as a resource. She’s been featured in Design NJ and appeared on House Smarts TV. In 2012, LuAnn authored the e-book, 10 Things to Know About Window Treatments and was featured in Big Bold Business Women of NJ. In the summer of 2015, LuAnn was searching for radio shows that spoke of her interest in the business of design--and found nothing. That was her “Ah Ha! Moment” and she decided to start a podcast. Today, she hosts a weekly 60-minute podcast ‘A Well-Designed Business.’ The twice weekly Internet show features in depth conversations with industry professionals on just about every subject on the business of interior design, from “Branding for Designers” “How to Get PR,” and How to Structure your Fees. LuAnn lives in New Jersey with her husband. After more than three decades in business, she has no plans to stop any time soon. Learn more about Luann and her work here: http://windowworks-nj.com   Connect with her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj   LuAnn Nigara is an award winning window treatment authority, author, and host of the 5 star-rated podcast, A Well-Designed Business, which serves the design industry as an overall business dynamo.

Based in Livingston, New Jersey, LuAnn got her start in 1982 when she, her husband, and cousin, purchased a franchise of the Florida based, full service window treatment company, Window Works. With LuAnn at the helm of sales, they quickly expanded from New Jersey to serving the entire metro area from Philadelphia, to the Hamptons to Connecticut and became the leading showroom in gross sales of the more than 120 stores Window Works stores around the country.

“I have always been fascinated by sales and the components of a sale,” explains LuAnn, who brings an unmatched passion and expertise to the business of window design. “At ten years old my Aunt gave me the book, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino and I quickly looked for every book like it. That was the beginning of what became my obsession with the art and skill of the sale.”

Soon after running Window Works leading franchise, LuAnn thought of something no one else had: Why not work directly with interior designers? “Back then I thumbed through the phonebook,” laughs LuAnn who recalls cold calling designers and asking them to partner with her. Today, she counts Sussan Lari Architects, Alexandra Angle Interiors in Los Angeles, Anyon Designs (San Francisco), House of Funk in NJ, Pembrooke & Ives and Charles Pavarini as clients.

After more than thirty years of designing, creating and installing window treatments for the most discerning clients, LuAnn is now recognized as a leading voice in the business of design. In addition to speaking at the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID-NJ) and the world-renown Hunter Douglas conference, she is regularly called on by Design NJ as a resource. She’s been featured in Design NJ and appeared on House Smarts TV. In 2012, LuAnn authored the e-book, 10 Things to Know About Window Treatments and was featured in Big Bold Business Women of NJ.

In the summer of 2015, LuAnn was searching for radio shows that spoke of her interest in the business of design--and found nothing. That was her “Ah Ha! Moment” and she decided to start a podcast. Today, she hosts a weekly 60-minute podcast ‘A Well-Designed Business.’ The twice weekly Internet show features in depth conversations with industry professionals on just about every subject on the business of interior design, from “Branding for Designers” “How to Get PR,” and How to Structure your Fees.

LuAnn lives in New Jersey with her husband. After more than three decades in business, she has no plans to stop any time soon.

Learn more about Luann and her work here:

http://windowworks-nj.com

 

Connect with her on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/windowworksnj

 

]]> 2004 no 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/51-power-talk-fridays-with-david-d-livingston-professional-interior-photographer Welcome back to another Power Talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know that we have David Duncan Livingston with us today! He is a professional photographer from the San Francisco Bay area. He has worked in over 40 states and 4 provinces! His particular skill, in addition to his photography, is that he works with interior designers as a producer, art director, and stylist when doing professional photography for you and your projects. He really works with you to get to the story that you are trying to produce with each project. I have to tell you that once you look at his website you will see that he does exactly what he says he does. For this power talk Friday David and I have to decided to talk about Houzz and we are going to pick his brain on how each of us can maximize our Houzz platform. Show Notes: What happens in the initial phase? How do you decide what kinds of pictures to post on Houzz? Is there such a thing as putting too much on your profile? How do you organize an idea book? Why is it important to keyword your photos? What are some tips for iPhone users? Learn more at: http://windowworks-nj.com/david     Fri, 22 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to another Power Talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know that we have David Duncan Livingston with us today! He is a professional photographer from the San Francisco Bay area. He has worked in over 40 states and 4 provinces! His... Welcome back to another Power Talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know that we have David Duncan Livingston with us today! He is a professional photographer from the San Francisco Bay area. He has worked in over 40 states and 4 provinces! His particular skill, in addition to his photography, is that he works with interior designers as a producer, art director, and stylist when doing professional photography for you and your projects. He really works with you to get to the story that you are trying to produce with each project. I have to tell you that once you look at his website you will see that he does exactly what he says he does. For this power talk Friday David and I have to decided to talk about Houzz and we are going to pick his brain on how each of us can maximize our Houzz platform. Show Notes: What happens in the initial phase? How do you decide what kinds of pictures to post on Houzz? Is there such a thing as putting too much on your profile? How do you organize an idea book? Why is it important to keyword your photos? What are some tips for iPhone users? Learn more at: http://windowworks-nj.com/david     Welcome back to another Power Talk Friday! I’m happy to let you know that we have David Duncan Livingston with us today! He is a professional photographer from the San Francisco Bay area. He has worked in over 40 states and 4 provinces! His particular skill, in addition to his photography, is that he works with interior designers as a producer, art director, and stylist when doing professional photography for you and your projects. He really works with you to get to the story that you are trying to produce with each project. I have to tell you that once you look at his website you will see that he does exactly what he says he does. For this power talk Friday David and I have to decided to talk about Houzz and we are going to pick his brain on how each of us can maximize our Houzz platform.

Show Notes:

  • What happens in the initial phase?
  • How do you decide what kinds of pictures to post on Houzz?
  • Is there such a thing as putting too much on your profile?
  • How do you organize an idea book?
  • Why is it important to keyword your photos?
  • What are some tips for iPhone users?

Learn more at: http://windowworks-nj.com/david

 

 

]]> 2889 no 50: Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/050-veronica-solomon-powerful-marketing-for-your-interior-design-firm-website-to-fan-engagement-on-facebook Today we have a treat because Veronica Solomon is a rock star powerhouse woman in interior design. I came across Veronica and I thought she is a smart lady, she has some great things to share and always seems to have good advice. Then I browsed her website. I had to be picked up off the floor. Once I was off the floor I probably spent as much time on her website as I have on other designers’ in the past 8 or 9 months that I have been interviewing. She has so much information and it's put out there so organized, clear, and user-friendly; and talks to the consumer. Today she is going to share with us how and why she decided to organize her website. Show Notes: What is a “how we work” page? Be up front! How does having the price figures on her website help her with business? Who created her website? How does “wix” work? What is her plan for the fall? What are some of her future goals? How did she grow her group? Are live videos the future?   Read the entire show notes and access resources at: http://windowworks-nj.com/veronica/ Wed, 20 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have a treat because Veronica Solomon is a rock star powerhouse woman in interior design. I came across Veronica and I thought she is a smart lady, she has some great things to share and always seems to have good advice. Then I browsed her... Today we have a treat because Veronica Solomon is a rock star powerhouse woman in interior design. I came across Veronica and I thought she is a smart lady, she has some great things to share and always seems to have good advice. Then I browsed her website. I had to be picked up off the floor. Once I was off the floor I probably spent as much time on her website as I have on other designers’ in the past 8 or 9 months that I have been interviewing. She has so much information and it's put out there so organized, clear, and user-friendly; and talks to the consumer. Today she is going to share with us how and why she decided to organize her website. Show Notes: What is a “how we work” page? Be up front! How does having the price figures on her website help her with business? Who created her website? How does “wix” work? What is her plan for the fall? What are some of her future goals? How did she grow her group? Are live videos the future?   Read the entire show notes and access resources at: http://windowworks-nj.com/veronica/ Today we have a treat because Veronica Solomon is a rock star powerhouse woman in interior design. I came across Veronica and I thought she is a smart lady, she has some great things to share and always seems to have good advice. Then I browsed her website. I had to be picked up off the floor.

Once I was off the floor I probably spent as much time on her website as I have on other designers’ in the past 8 or 9 months that I have been interviewing. She has so much information and it's put out there so organized, clear, and user-friendly; and talks to the consumer. Today she is going to share with us how and why she decided to organize her website.

Show Notes:

  • What is a “how we work” page?
  • Be up front!
  • How does having the price figures on her website help her with business?
  • Who created her website?
  • How does “wix” work?
  • What is her plan for the fall?
  • What are some of her future goals?
  • How did she grow her group?
  • Are live videos the future?

 

Read the entire show notes and access resources at: http://windowworks-nj.com/veronica/

]]> 3816 no 49: James Swan - The Man Behind The Million Dollar Decorating Podcast http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/49-james-swan-how-to-be-a-high-level-designer On the show today we have James Swan! James is the host of the podcast Million Dollar Decorator. This is in addition to his illustrious career as an interior designer. Being the host of this podcast and speaking with James about being guests on each other’s podcasts I really started doing research on him. I am very impressed at what a high level accomplished interior designer he is. Let’s be honest there are interior designers who make it big in their hometown and have a good 25 to 30-year career. But then you have interior designers that do things in a high level way and that is James! And this is what we are going to talk about today. Show Notes: What’s the scoop on his career background? Delegate! What are some things to think about when starting a business? Why is training so important? What’s in his book? Will there be another book? How did he end up in Maine? To learn more about James Swan, please  visit http://windowworks-nj.com/james Mon, 18 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today we have James Swan! James is the host of the podcast Million Dollar Decorator. This is in addition to his illustrious career as an interior designer. Being the host of this podcast and speaking with James about being guests on each... On the show today we have James Swan! James is the host of the podcast Million Dollar Decorator. This is in addition to his illustrious career as an interior designer. Being the host of this podcast and speaking with James about being guests on each other’s podcasts I really started doing research on him. I am very impressed at what a high level accomplished interior designer he is. Let’s be honest there are interior designers who make it big in their hometown and have a good 25 to 30-year career. But then you have interior designers that do things in a high level way and that is James! And this is what we are going to talk about today. Show Notes: What’s the scoop on his career background? Delegate! What are some things to think about when starting a business? Why is training so important? What’s in his book? Will there be another book? How did he end up in Maine? To learn more about James Swan, please  visit http://windowworks-nj.com/james On the show today we have James Swan! James is the host of the podcast Million Dollar Decorator. This is in addition to his illustrious career as an interior designer. Being the host of this podcast and speaking with James about being guests on each other’s podcasts I really started doing research on him. I am very impressed at what a high level accomplished interior designer he is. Let’s be honest there are interior designers who make it big in their hometown and have a good 25 to 30-year career. But then you have interior designers that do things in a high level way and that is James! And this is what we are going to talk about today.

Show Notes:

  • What’s the scoop on his career background?
  • Delegate!
  • What are some things to think about when starting a business?
  • Why is training so important?
  • What’s in his book?
  • Will there be another book?
  • How did he end up in Maine?

To learn more about James Swan, please  visit http://windowworks-nj.com/james

]]> 3126 no 48: Power Talk Friday with Fred Berns http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/48-power-talk-fridays-with-fred-berns Welcome back to Power talk Friday! I am pleased to have Fred Berns back with us! If you remember he was on the show a couple of months ago and he discussed how to create a killer bio. I am aware that you all love his show so much that Fred and I have been talking about him coming back on the show. So he is here today! If you have not heard his episode you should go back and listen to it! It has a lot of terrific information in it. If you did miss his show Fred is a coach who trains professional designers worldwide on how to promote themselves and how to more effectively and dramatically increase their sales. I have to say what he says he is going to do he is going to do. Today he is going to tell us the keys to a killer website. Show Notes: What are interior designers doing wrong on their websites? What elements should be on the homepage? “Four seconds and two clicks” Why do you need more than images? How can you make it easier to navigate your website? What should you avoid? Why should you “think links”? You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com Fri, 15 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back to Power talk Friday! I am pleased to have Fred Berns back with us! If you remember he was on the show a couple of months ago and he discussed how to create a killer bio. I am aware that you all love his show so much that Fred and I have... Welcome back to Power talk Friday! I am pleased to have Fred Berns back with us! If you remember he was on the show a couple of months ago and he discussed how to create a killer bio. I am aware that you all love his show so much that Fred and I have been talking about him coming back on the show. So he is here today! If you have not heard his episode you should go back and listen to it! It has a lot of terrific information in it. If you did miss his show Fred is a coach who trains professional designers worldwide on how to promote themselves and how to more effectively and dramatically increase their sales. I have to say what he says he is going to do he is going to do. Today he is going to tell us the keys to a killer website. Show Notes: What are interior designers doing wrong on their websites? What elements should be on the homepage? “Four seconds and two clicks” Why do you need more than images? How can you make it easier to navigate your website? What should you avoid? Why should you “think links”? You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com Welcome back to Power talk Friday! I am pleased to have Fred Berns back with us! If you remember he was on the show a couple of months ago and he discussed how to create a killer bio. I am aware that you all love his show so much that Fred and I have been talking about him coming back on the show. So he is here today! If you have not heard his episode you should go back and listen to it! It has a lot of terrific information in it. If you did miss his show Fred is a coach who trains professional designers worldwide on how to promote themselves and how to more effectively and dramatically increase their sales. I have to say what he says he is going to do he is going to do. Today he is going to tell us the keys to a killer website.

Show Notes:

  • What are interior designers doing wrong on their websites?
  • What elements should be on the homepage?
  • “Four seconds and two clicks”
  • Why do you need more than images?
  • How can you make it easier to navigate your website?
  • What should you avoid?
  • Why should you “think links”?

You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com

]]> 2540 no 47: Gail Davis: Make Your Life Count http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/gail-davis-make-your-life-count Gail Davis has a very interesting past that would be very helpful to her colleagues. Interior design is her second career. Her first career was in fashion. When you hear her story about her career in fashion, I think everyone will understand why she went into interior design! Show Notes: How long was she in fashion before switching to interior design? Why interior design? How did she “walk” into her internships? What is the biggest difference interning at a younger age vs being older? What sort of questions should you ask yourself when designing a room? Were there certain things that were the same between the two designers? What business practices did she learn? Resources: Instagram:  gmdinteriors  https://www.instagram.com/gmdinteriors/?hl=en FB:   https://www.facebook.com/gmdinteriors/  Wed, 13 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Gail Davis has a very interesting past that would be very helpful to her colleagues. Interior design is her second career. Her first career was in fashion. When you hear her story about her career in fashion, I think everyone will understand why she... Gail Davis has a very interesting past that would be very helpful to her colleagues. Interior design is her second career. Her first career was in fashion. When you hear her story about her career in fashion, I think everyone will understand why she went into interior design! Show Notes: How long was she in fashion before switching to interior design? Why interior design? How did she “walk” into her internships? What is the biggest difference interning at a younger age vs being older? What sort of questions should you ask yourself when designing a room? Were there certain things that were the same between the two designers? What business practices did she learn? Resources: Instagram:  gmdinteriors  https://www.instagram.com/gmdinteriors/?hl=en FB:   https://www.facebook.com/gmdinteriors/  Gail Davis has a very interesting past that would be very helpful to her colleagues. Interior design is her second career. Her first career was in fashion. When you hear her story about her career in fashion, I think everyone will understand why she went into interior design!

Show Notes:

  • How long was she in fashion before switching to interior design?
  • Why interior design?
  • How did she “walk” into her internships?
  • What is the biggest difference interning at a younger age vs being older?
  • What sort of questions should you ask yourself when designing a room?
  • Were there certain things that were the same between the two designers?
  • What business practices did she learn?

Resources:

Instagram:  gmdinteriors  https://www.instagram.com/gmdinteriors/?hl=en

FB:   https://www.facebook.com/gmdinteriors/ 

]]> 3443 no 46: Barbara Viteri: Designerlebrity™ Comes to the Podcast! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/46-barbara-viteri-designerlebrity-comes-to-the-podcast Welcome back everybody! Barbara Viteri has such an interesting trail leading to where she is today with her Designerlebrity™ Barbara had a very successful business called Viteri Style Management where she was a consultant for interior designers. But Barbara is pivoting her career now. She is going to share with us about how she got to where she is now. Show Notes: What did she do in Viteri Style Management? What exercise can help with hiring? What is Designerlebrity? How did she come to her new career move? Be real! Don’t pretend! Resources: www.facebook.com/barbaraviteri www.instagram.com/barbaraviteri www.twitter.com ~ @viteristyle viteri@viteristylemanagement.com www.viteristylemanagement.com   Mon, 11 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Welcome back everybody! Barbara Viteri has such an interesting trail leading to where she is today with her Designerlebrity™ Barbara had a very successful business called Viteri Style Management where she was a consultant for interior designers. But... Welcome back everybody! Barbara Viteri has such an interesting trail leading to where she is today with her Designerlebrity™ Barbara had a very successful business called Viteri Style Management where she was a consultant for interior designers. But Barbara is pivoting her career now. She is going to share with us about how she got to where she is now. Show Notes: What did she do in Viteri Style Management? What exercise can help with hiring? What is Designerlebrity? How did she come to her new career move? Be real! Don’t pretend! Resources: www.facebook.com/barbaraviteri www.instagram.com/barbaraviteri www.twitter.com ~ @viteristyle viteri@viteristylemanagement.com www.viteristylemanagement.com   Welcome back everybody! Barbara Viteri has such an interesting trail leading to where she is today with her Designerlebrity™

Barbara had a very successful business called Viteri Style Management where she was a consultant for interior designers. But Barbara is pivoting her career now. She is going to share with us about how she got to where she is now.

Show Notes:

  • What did she do in Viteri Style Management?
  • What exercise can help with hiring?
  • What is Designerlebrity?
  • How did she come to her new career move?
  • Be real! Don’t pretend!

Resources:

www.facebook.com/barbaraviteri

www.instagram.com/barbaraviteri

www.twitter.com ~ @viteristyle

viteri@viteristylemanagement.com

www.viteristylemanagement.com

 

]]> 3652 no 45: Power Talk Friday's with Krista Coupar http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/45-power-talk-fridays-with-krista-coupar  Krista Coupar of Coupar Consulting returns to the show to talk about billing and hourly fee’s. How To Effectively Bill Out Using an Hourly Fee Structure: • Step 1: Understand your existing pipeline • Step 2: Do an analysis of your current client base and your average monthly billing • Step 3: Determine utilization rates for yourself and your team • Step 4: Match up current project initiatives with the hours the team has available to work • Step 5: Evaluate if you need to add to your team     You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com Fri, 08 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara  Krista Coupar of Coupar Consulting returns to the show to talk about billing and hourly fee’s. How To Effectively Bill Out Using an Hourly Fee Structure: • Step 1: Understand your existing pipeline • Step 2: Do an analysis of your current...  Krista Coupar of Coupar Consulting returns to the show to talk about billing and hourly fee’s. How To Effectively Bill Out Using an Hourly Fee Structure: • Step 1: Understand your existing pipeline • Step 2: Do an analysis of your current client base and your average monthly billing • Step 3: Determine utilization rates for yourself and your team • Step 4: Match up current project initiatives with the hours the team has available to work • Step 5: Evaluate if you need to add to your team     You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com www.windowworks-nj.com]]> 2390 no 44: How to Host Fabulous Events to Grow Your Interior Design Firm with Michael Mitchell and Tyler Hill http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/44-how-to-host-fabulous-events-to-grow-your-interior-design-firm-with-michael-mitchell-and-tyler-hill Today on the show we have Michael Mitchell and Tyler Hill! They have their own design firm in Charleston, South Carolina. They also deal with fine arts, have a retail store and deal with gallery events. Putting on an event is one thing but putting on 10 to 12 events a year successfully is quite another thing. They put on an event at least once a month usually.  Michael and Tyler are going to share with us they came upon the idea of putting on events. Show Notes: What was the original plan? What is the one thing that they will always have part of their business? How was charity introduced to them? What should you not go cheap on? What are some ways to let people know when there will be an event? Who are the fabulous staff and what do they do? How did their collection come to life? What are the follow up processes? Resources: www.mitchellhillinc.com  You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/mitchellhill Wed, 06 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have Michael Mitchell and Tyler Hill! They have their own design firm in Charleston, South Carolina. They also deal with fine arts, have a retail store and deal with gallery events. Putting on an event is one thing but putting on... Today on the show we have Michael Mitchell and Tyler Hill! They have their own design firm in Charleston, South Carolina. They also deal with fine arts, have a retail store and deal with gallery events. Putting on an event is one thing but putting on 10 to 12 events a year successfully is quite another thing. They put on an event at least once a month usually.  Michael and Tyler are going to share with us they came upon the idea of putting on events. Show Notes: What was the original plan? What is the one thing that they will always have part of their business? How was charity introduced to them? What should you not go cheap on? What are some ways to let people know when there will be an event? Who are the fabulous staff and what do they do? How did their collection come to life? What are the follow up processes? Resources: www.mitchellhillinc.com  You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/mitchellhill Today on the show we have Michael Mitchell and Tyler Hill! They have their own design firm in Charleston, South Carolina. They also deal with fine arts, have a retail store and deal with gallery events. Putting on an event is one thing but putting on 10 to 12 events a year successfully is quite another thing. They put on an event at least once a month usually.  Michael and Tyler are going to share with us they came upon the idea of putting on events.

Show Notes:

  • What was the original plan?
  • What is the one thing that they will always have part of their business?
  • How was charity introduced to them?
  • What should you not go cheap on?
  • What are some ways to let people know when there will be an event?
  • Who are the fabulous staff and what do they do?
  • How did their collection come to life?
  • What are the follow up processes?

Resources:

www.mitchellhillinc.com 

You can read the full show notes and access all the links and resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/mitchellhill

]]> 3369 no 43: Farrha Hyman- Success Story- How I Re-Designed my 15 Year Old Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/43-farrha-hyman-success-story-how-i-re-designed-my-15-year-old-firm Today we have Farrha Hyman on the show! You may be thinking where have I heard that name before? Farrha is the designer that Kae Whitaker mentioned in her interview from a previous episode! She is going to share with us her story and what can happen to your design firm when you reach out and get help and expertise from someone who knows more than you do. Show Notes: When did she realize she needed help? How did she hear about Kay? Trust the process! How different is it just being in business and running a business well? Why is it important to share some personal information? What two actions have to happen when bringing someone new into the business? What personal struggles did she have with change? How did she use her knowledge from previous hires? Where does she plan to be further down the road with her firm? You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast Mon, 04 Jul 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today we have Farrha Hyman on the show! You may be thinking where have I heard that name before? Farrha is the designer that Kae Whitaker mentioned in her interview from a previous episode! She is going to share with us her story and what can happen... Today we have Farrha Hyman on the show! You may be thinking where have I heard that name before? Farrha is the designer that Kae Whitaker mentioned in her interview from a previous episode! She is going to share with us her story and what can happen to your design firm when you reach out and get help and expertise from someone who knows more than you do. Show Notes: When did she realize she needed help? How did she hear about Kay? Trust the process! How different is it just being in business and running a business well? Why is it important to share some personal information? What two actions have to happen when bringing someone new into the business? What personal struggles did she have with change? How did she use her knowledge from previous hires? Where does she plan to be further down the road with her firm? You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast Today we have Farrha Hyman on the show! You may be thinking where have I heard that name before? Farrha is the designer that Kae Whitaker mentioned in her interview from a previous episode! She is going to share with us her story and what can happen to your design firm when you reach out and get help and expertise from someone who knows more than you do.

Show Notes:

  • When did she realize she needed help?
  • How did she hear about Kay?
  • Trust the process!
  • How different is it just being in business and running a business well?
  • Why is it important to share some personal information?
  • What two actions have to happen when bringing someone new into the business?
  • What personal struggles did she have with change?
  • How did she use her knowledge from previous hires?
  • Where does she plan to be further down the road with her firm?

You can read the full show notes and access all the resources at www.windowworks-nj.com/podcast

]]> 3495 no 42: Rachel Laxer: Build on Your Experiences, Your Past to Create a Smart, Profitable Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/42-rachel-laxer-build-on-your-experiences-your-past-to-create-a-smart-profitable-business On our show today we have Rachel Laxer! Rachel runs a pretty big firm that is based out of London and New York City. She is a member of the British Institute of Design, and ASID here in the states. She graduated from Washington State with a BA in Political Science and History and from NYU with an MBA in Finance and International Business! She has been featured in Ireland’s Home, Interiors and Living magazine, participated in the Holiday House in New York City, Westchester House in New York and Design on a Dime. Rachel came to interior design in a rather unusual way. She is going to tell that story on the show today! Show Notes: How did Rachel begin working with Kelly Hoppen? How does she predict trends? How does she use her degrees in interior design? What is the key to mixing periods of time? What are the challenges having an interior design business in two “homes”? Use the people you know will do a good job! Resources: www.rlaxerinteriors.com www.windowworks-nj.com/rachellaxer  Wed, 29 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On our show today we have Rachel Laxer! Rachel runs a pretty big firm that is based out of London and New York City. She is a member of the British Institute of Design, and ASID here in the states. She graduated from Washington State with a BA in... On our show today we have Rachel Laxer! Rachel runs a pretty big firm that is based out of London and New York City. She is a member of the British Institute of Design, and ASID here in the states. She graduated from Washington State with a BA in Political Science and History and from NYU with an MBA in Finance and International Business! She has been featured in Ireland’s Home, Interiors and Living magazine, participated in the Holiday House in New York City, Westchester House in New York and Design on a Dime. Rachel came to interior design in a rather unusual way. She is going to tell that story on the show today! Show Notes: How did Rachel begin working with Kelly Hoppen? How does she predict trends? How does she use her degrees in interior design? What is the key to mixing periods of time? What are the challenges having an interior design business in two “homes”? Use the people you know will do a good job! Resources: www.rlaxerinteriors.com www.windowworks-nj.com/rachellaxer  On our show today we have Rachel Laxer! Rachel runs a pretty big firm that is based out of London and New York City. She is a member of the British Institute of Design, and ASID here in the states. She graduated from Washington State with a BA in Political Science and History and from NYU with an MBA in Finance and International Business! She has been featured in Ireland’s Home, Interiors and Living magazine, participated in the Holiday House in New York City, Westchester House in New York and Design on a Dime. Rachel came to interior design in a rather unusual way. She is going to tell that story on the show today!

Show Notes:

  • How did Rachel begin working with Kelly Hoppen?
  • How does she predict trends?
  • How does she use her degrees in interior design?
  • What is the key to mixing periods of time?
  • What are the challenges having an interior design business in two “homes”?
  • Use the people you know will do a good job!

Resources:

www.rlaxerinteriors.com

www.windowworks-nj.com/rachellaxer 

]]> 2420 no 41: Cheryl Janis: Create Clarity for Your Interior Design Firm and Watch Your Profits Grow http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/41-cheryl-janis-create-clarity-for-your-interior-design-firm-and-watch-your-profits-grow Our guest, Cheryl Janis has been an interior designer for more than 19 years! She has a background in full service interior design for residential design, restaurant design, office design, the whole she bang. But in the last 2 to 6 years she has thought about a direction change for her business. Cheryl has decided to specialize in independent healthcare physicians that are visionaries and embrace the whole health philosophy. She is going to share with us why and how she has come to only specialize in this specific nitch. Show Notes: What kind of specific healthcare spaces does she design for? How did an accident when she was 17 years old impact her life in such a big way? How have her designs affected these businesses? What is a generalist? What was scary about making the leap to specialize? What is evidence based design? What are some things that can help with recovery in design? Why does Cheryl have a newsletter?   You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/cheryl Mon, 27 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Our guest, Cheryl Janis has been an interior designer for more than 19 years! She has a background in full service interior design for residential design, restaurant design, office design, the whole she bang. But in the last 2 to 6 years she has... Our guest, Cheryl Janis has been an interior designer for more than 19 years! She has a background in full service interior design for residential design, restaurant design, office design, the whole she bang. But in the last 2 to 6 years she has thought about a direction change for her business. Cheryl has decided to specialize in independent healthcare physicians that are visionaries and embrace the whole health philosophy. She is going to share with us why and how she has come to only specialize in this specific nitch. Show Notes: What kind of specific healthcare spaces does she design for? How did an accident when she was 17 years old impact her life in such a big way? How have her designs affected these businesses? What is a generalist? What was scary about making the leap to specialize? What is evidence based design? What are some things that can help with recovery in design? Why does Cheryl have a newsletter?   You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/cheryl Our guest, Cheryl Janis has been an interior designer for more than 19 years! She has a background in full service interior design for residential design, restaurant design, office design, the whole she bang. But in the last 2 to 6 years she has thought about a direction change for her business. Cheryl has decided to specialize in independent healthcare physicians that are visionaries and embrace the whole health philosophy. She is going to share with us why and how she has come to only specialize in this specific nitch.

Show Notes:

  • What kind of specific healthcare spaces does she design for?
  • How did an accident when she was 17 years old impact her life in such a big way?
  • How have her designs affected these businesses?
  • What is a generalist?
  • What was scary about making the leap to specialize?
  • What is evidence based design?
  • What are some things that can help with recovery in design?
  • Why does Cheryl have a newsletter?

 

You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/cheryl

]]> 4342 no 40: Meryl Santopietro- How to Re-Invent, Re Vitalize Your Firm, Even After 20 Years http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/40-meryl-santopietro-how-to-re-invent-re-vitalize-your-firm-even-after-20-years Today on the show we have Meryl Santopietro! She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day. Show Notes: How did she build her business? Why did she move her business to Manhattan? What should you do in an interview? New contacts can equal new referrals When did her daughters join in the business? How did she come to develop products? What are her products used for? What roles do her daughters play in the business? Have a great photographer! Resources: Simply Spotless www.merylsantopietro.com  You can read the full show notes and access the resources at www.windoworks-nj.com/meryl Wed, 22 Jun 2016 13:24:20 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have Meryl Santopietro! She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has... Today on the show we have Meryl Santopietro! She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day. Show Notes: How did she build her business? Why did she move her business to Manhattan? What should you do in an interview? New contacts can equal new referrals When did her daughters join in the business? How did she come to develop products? What are her products used for? What roles do her daughters play in the business? Have a great photographer! Resources: Simply Spotless www.merylsantopietro.com  You can read the full show notes and access the resources at www.windoworks-nj.com/meryl Today on the show we have Meryl Santopietro! She is going to be sharing with us about her career and her decision to move her business to Manhattan. Meryl’s business was based in Rhode Island until she moved her business to Manhattan. She also has the pleasure of working with her two daughters every day.

Show Notes:

  • How did she build her business?
  • Why did she move her business to Manhattan?
  • What should you do in an interview?
  • New contacts can equal new referrals
  • When did her daughters join in the business?
  • How did she come to develop products?
  • What are her products used for?
  • What roles do her daughters play in the business?
  • Have a great photographer!

Resources:

Simply Spotless

www.merylsantopietro.com 

You can read the full show notes and access the resources at www.windoworks-nj.com/meryl

]]> 3335 no 39: Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/episode-39 Today on A Well Designed Business we have a treat! We have Andrew Joseph who is the principal of a design boutique public relations firm in New York city! This is a big time firm and he has clients from all over and his reach is worldwide. He is going to share with us his tips on how to hire, take advantage of and understand what a PR firm can and cannot do for you. Here's a bit about Andrew:  Prior to founding Andrew Joseph PR in 2012, Andrew worked for another shelter specific firm advancing his knowledge of public relations and forming a strong network of contacts in the design industry. Andrew’s PR expertise crossed lifestyle categories while working on beauty and fashion brands at RED PR from 2001 to 2005. Before his career in PR, Andrew acquired his journalism skills while employed at Vanity Fair and Allure magazines. That editorial experience facilitates Andrew Joseph PR to have a unique understanding about the media, creative branding strategies, and a deep, successful clientele. Show Notes: Where did he get his background in public relations? How much information should you include in a pitch? What is the value of a deadline? How do you know which Public Relations firm to hire? What are some things to include in your portfolio? Make sure you have good photography! Why is it important to look at the “landscape”? Resources: Vanity Fair Magazine Allure Magazine www.andrewjosephpr.com  andrew@andrewjospehpr.com Sat, 18 Jun 2016 23:36:37 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well Designed Business we have a treat! We have Andrew Joseph who is the principal of a design boutique public relations firm in New York city! This is a big time firm and he has clients from all over and his reach is worldwide. He is going... Today on A Well Designed Business we have a treat! We have Andrew Joseph who is the principal of a design boutique public relations firm in New York city! This is a big time firm and he has clients from all over and his reach is worldwide. He is going to share with us his tips on how to hire, take advantage of and understand what a PR firm can and cannot do for you. Here's a bit about Andrew:  Prior to founding Andrew Joseph PR in 2012, Andrew worked for another shelter specific firm advancing his knowledge of public relations and forming a strong network of contacts in the design industry. Andrew’s PR expertise crossed lifestyle categories while working on beauty and fashion brands at RED PR from 2001 to 2005. Before his career in PR, Andrew acquired his journalism skills while employed at Vanity Fair and Allure magazines. That editorial experience facilitates Andrew Joseph PR to have a unique understanding about the media, creative branding strategies, and a deep, successful clientele. Show Notes: Where did he get his background in public relations? How much information should you include in a pitch? What is the value of a deadline? How do you know which Public Relations firm to hire? What are some things to include in your portfolio? Make sure you have good photography! Why is it important to look at the “landscape”? Resources: Vanity Fair Magazine Allure Magazine www.andrewjosephpr.com  andrew@andrewjospehpr.com Today on A Well Designed Business we have a treat! We have Andrew Joseph who is the principal of a design boutique public relations firm in New York city! This is a big time firm and he has clients from all over and his reach is worldwide. He is going to share with us his tips on how to hire, take advantage of and understand what a PR firm can and cannot do for you.

Here's a bit about Andrew: 

Prior to founding Andrew Joseph PR in 2012, Andrew worked for another shelter specific firm advancing his knowledge of public relations and forming a strong network of contacts in the design industry. Andrew’s PR expertise crossed lifestyle categories while working on beauty and fashion brands at RED PR from 2001 to 2005. Before his career in PR, Andrew acquired his journalism skills while employed at Vanity Fair and Allure magazines. That editorial experience facilitates Andrew Joseph PR to have a unique understanding about the media, creative branding strategies, and a deep, successful clientele.

Show Notes:

  • Where did he get his background in public relations?
  • How much information should you include in a pitch?
  • What is the value of a deadline?
  • How do you know which Public Relations firm to hire?
  • What are some things to include in your portfolio?
  • Make sure you have good photography!
  • Why is it important to look at the “landscape”?

Resources:

Vanity Fair Magazine

Allure Magazine

www.andrewjosephpr.com 

andrew@andrewjospehpr.com

]]> 3949 no 38: Patrick Cain - Resource Management- A Skill You Need to Understand to be Successful http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/38-patrick-cain-resource-management-a-skill-you-need-to-understand-to-be-successful Today on the show I’m excited to have Patrick Cain! He is a custom furniture designer based out of Los Angeles. He specializes in furniture made from wood, metal and concrete. The designs are gorgeous! He is going to share with us a little about the pieces and how he got his business started. Show Notes: What two objectives does Patrick try to put into his furniture? What is the definition of recycle? How does he use recycling in his furniture? Where does he get the wood for his pieces? When did he start his furniture designing? What about “the numbers”? How to get free market research When you are learning about something just go with professionals! How to decide what to put in inventory “Don’t skimp on photography!” Resources: www.patrickcaindesigns.com @patrickcain -Instagram Patrickcain- Facebook Wed, 15 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show I’m excited to have Patrick Cain! He is a custom furniture designer based out of Los Angeles. He specializes in furniture made from wood, metal and concrete. The designs are gorgeous! He is going to share with us a little about the... Today on the show I’m excited to have Patrick Cain! He is a custom furniture designer based out of Los Angeles. He specializes in furniture made from wood, metal and concrete. The designs are gorgeous! He is going to share with us a little about the pieces and how he got his business started. Show Notes: What two objectives does Patrick try to put into his furniture? What is the definition of recycle? How does he use recycling in his furniture? Where does he get the wood for his pieces? When did he start his furniture designing? What about “the numbers”? How to get free market research When you are learning about something just go with professionals! How to decide what to put in inventory “Don’t skimp on photography!” Resources: www.patrickcaindesigns.com @patrickcain -Instagram Patrickcain- Facebook Today on the show I’m excited to have Patrick Cain! He is a custom furniture designer based out of Los Angeles. He specializes in furniture made from wood, metal and concrete. The designs are gorgeous! He is going to share with us a little about the pieces and how he got his business started.

Show Notes:

  • What two objectives does Patrick try to put into his furniture?
  • What is the definition of recycle?
  • How does he use recycling in his furniture?
  • Where does he get the wood for his pieces?
  • When did he start his furniture designing?
  • What about “the numbers”?
  • How to get free market research
  • When you are learning about something just go with professionals!
  • How to decide what to put in inventory
  • “Don’t skimp on photography!”

Resources:

www.patrickcaindesigns.com

@patrickcain -Instagram

Patrickcain- Facebook

]]> 3423 no 37: Lesley Myrick - Strategies I Used to Build My Business http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/37-lesley-myrick-strategies-i-used-to-build-my-business Leslie Myrick is an interior stylist and has not only built her business from the ground up once but three times! She has been in Canada, California and now Texas! She has very specific ways how she has built her business in such a short amount of time that really stand out. She has a blog and YouTube videos and has really created a good body of work in a short amount of time. We are going to talk about how you can be doing business in the same place you have been for the last twenty years and approach it like you just moved there. Show Notes: How much preparation did it take to move to where she is now? What is on the checklist when starting out? What should you want to be remembered for?  “Stand in your space” Should you pay to have help doing different parts of the business? What is the most important thing to do with a customer? What 13 things has Leslie learned? What kinds of systems does she use? Put your expectations up front! Resources: www.mebydesigns.com – Get your business coach here! The Big Leap- Gay, PhD Hendricks www.lesleymyrick.com Mon, 13 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Leslie Myrick is an interior stylist and has not only built her business from the ground up once but three times! She has been in Canada, California and now Texas! She has very specific ways how she has built her business in such a short amount of... Leslie Myrick is an interior stylist and has not only built her business from the ground up once but three times! She has been in Canada, California and now Texas! She has very specific ways how she has built her business in such a short amount of time that really stand out. She has a blog and YouTube videos and has really created a good body of work in a short amount of time. We are going to talk about how you can be doing business in the same place you have been for the last twenty years and approach it like you just moved there. Show Notes: How much preparation did it take to move to where she is now? What is on the checklist when starting out? What should you want to be remembered for?  “Stand in your space” Should you pay to have help doing different parts of the business? What is the most important thing to do with a customer? What 13 things has Leslie learned? What kinds of systems does she use? Put your expectations up front! Resources: www.mebydesigns.com – Get your business coach here! The Big Leap- Gay, PhD Hendricks www.lesleymyrick.com Leslie Myrick is an interior stylist and has not only built her business from the ground up once but three times! She has been in Canada, California and now Texas! She has very specific ways how she has built her business in such a short amount of time that really stand out. She has a blog and YouTube videos and has really created a good body of work in a short amount of time. We are going to talk about how you can be doing business in the same place you have been for the last twenty years and approach it like you just moved there.

Show Notes:

  • How much preparation did it take to move to where she is now?
  • What is on the checklist when starting out?
  • What should you want to be remembered for? 
  • “Stand in your space”
  • Should you pay to have help doing different parts of the business?
  • What is the most important thing to do with a customer?
  • What 13 things has Leslie learned?
  • What kinds of systems does she use?
  • Put your expectations up front!

Resources:

www.mebydesigns.com – Get your business coach here!

The Big Leap- Gay, PhD Hendricks

www.lesleymyrick.com

]]> 3705 no 36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/36-susan-brunstrum-practical-advice-for-project-managemen Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville and a branch office in Chicago. She and her team work with a broad-based clientele of entrepreneurs, corporate executives and professionals.   Susan is an experienced speaker, whether on interior design issues or the business of design. She is a popular speaker on design at libraries on the North Shore of Chicago. Susan has been featured on NBC/LXTV’s  “George to the Rescue” and  “Open House,” and she appeared on CLTV’s “Bring It Home” program. Her work has been published in numerous national and local magazines and newspapers, including Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers, Trends Kitchens, Trends Bathrooms, Color Made Easy, Crain’s Chicago Business  and Chicago Sun-Times’ magazine, Splash.   Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business. Show Notes: The two project fee basis systems  The six phases of projects How do you utilize the project fee? If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should! Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them What are the red flags when assessing a client? The difference between advertising and public relations Be patient!   Resources: www.sweetpeas-inspired.com - Sweet Peas Design www.studiowebware.com  www.quickbooks.com Wed, 08 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville... Susan is founder and principal of award-winning Sweet Peas Design, which she launched 13 years ago in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville as a one-woman firm. Today Sweet Peas Design is a full-service studio with a staff of six in downtown Libertyville and a branch office in Chicago. She and her team work with a broad-based clientele of entrepreneurs, corporate executives and professionals.   Susan is an experienced speaker, whether on interior design issues or the business of design. She is a popular speaker on design at libraries on the North Shore of Chicago. Susan has been featured on NBC/LXTV’s  “George to the Rescue” and  “Open House,” and she appeared on CLTV’s “Bring It Home” program. Her work has been published in numerous national and local magazines and newspapers, including Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers, Trends Kitchens, Trends Bathrooms, Color Made Easy, Crain’s Chicago Business  and Chicago Sun-Times’ magazine, Splash.   Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business. Show Notes: The two project fee basis systems  The six phases of projects How do you utilize the project fee? If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should! Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them What are the red flags when assessing a client? The difference between advertising and public relations Be patient!   Resources: www.sweetpeas-inspired.com - Sweet Peas Design www.studiowebware.com  www.quickbooks.com Today on the show we have Susan Brunstrum! She has a big firm in Chicago and a signature line called LivableLuxe with a tagline that says “the little black dress of interior design.” She is a business woman, she is a woman who knows what she wants, knows how to do business and knows how to present herself. Her firm has won several designer awards but today we are going to focus on the financial part of business.

Show Notes:

  • The two project fee basis systems 
  • The six phases of projects
  • How do you utilize the project fee?
  • If you don’t charge for your initial consultation you should!
  • Three things to assess on a client when you first meet them
  • What are the red flags when assessing a client?
  • The difference between advertising and public relations
  • Be patient!

 

Resources:

www.sweetpeas-inspired.com - Sweet Peas Design

www.studiowebware.com 

www.quickbooks.com

]]> 3764 no 35: Jerri Eskow- Integrity is the Foundation for Success http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/35-jerri-eskow-integrity-is-the-foundation-for-success Today on A Well Designed Business we have Jerri Eskow! She is a full-service interior designer and has been in business for more than 20 years! After becoming friends on Instagram I went to her website and did a little research. Sometimes when I have guests on the show I already know what their special skills, talents or lessons are. But with Jerri Eskow I was just so impressed with her as a whole. She is going to talk about her techniques she has used to be a successful interior designer for over 20 years. Show Notes: Where does integrity fit into business? How to “create an atmosphere” Have the details! Why you should give your opinion  3 systems to use to stay organized Resources: Chief Architect   https://www.chiefarchitect.com Apple Apps: Numbers and Notes www.irongateinteriors.com  Irongateinteriors- Instagram Irongateinteriors- Facebook Mon, 06 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on A Well Designed Business we have Jerri Eskow! She is a full-service interior designer and has been in business for more than 20 years! After becoming friends on Instagram I went to her website and did a little research. Sometimes when I have... Today on A Well Designed Business we have Jerri Eskow! She is a full-service interior designer and has been in business for more than 20 years! After becoming friends on Instagram I went to her website and did a little research. Sometimes when I have guests on the show I already know what their special skills, talents or lessons are. But with Jerri Eskow I was just so impressed with her as a whole. She is going to talk about her techniques she has used to be a successful interior designer for over 20 years. Show Notes: Where does integrity fit into business? How to “create an atmosphere” Have the details! Why you should give your opinion  3 systems to use to stay organized Resources: Chief Architect   https://www.chiefarchitect.com Apple Apps: Numbers and Notes www.irongateinteriors.com  Irongateinteriors- Instagram Irongateinteriors- Facebook Today on A Well Designed Business we have Jerri Eskow! She is a full-service interior designer and has been in business for more than 20 years! After becoming friends on Instagram I went to her website and did a little research. Sometimes when I have guests on the show I already know what their special skills, talents or lessons are. But with Jerri Eskow I was just so impressed with her as a whole. She is going to talk about her techniques she has used to be a successful interior designer for over 20 years.

Show Notes:

  • Where does integrity fit into business?
  • How to “create an atmosphere”
  • Have the details!
  • Why you should give your opinion 
  • 3 systems to use to stay organized

Resources:

Chief Architect   https://www.chiefarchitect.com Apple Apps: Numbers and Notes

www.irongateinteriors.com 

Irongateinteriors- Instagram

Irongateinteriors- Facebook

]]> 3079 no 34: Mary Fisher - Author, Artist, Advocate, Social Entrepreneur http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/34-mary-fisher-author-artist-advocate-social-entrepreneur     On today’s show, we have Mary Fisher who is a passionate designer of many trades. She is a textile designer, the author of 6 books, a jewelry designer, artist and photographer! Mary had some terrible news in 1992 that she had been diagnosed with HIV. Since then her passion to help others has skyrocketed. Her collection “100 Good Deeds” is a perfect of example that she does just that: Helps others. Show Notes: How did Mary get involved with Kravet Inc. What is “100 Good Deeds” jewelry and what does it stand for What resources does she use for “100 Good Deeds”? Who makes the art for “100 Good Deeds”? Don’t let other people define your designs  What kind of people are good to have in business? What advice did Mary’s mentor give her? Resources: Kravet Inc. – kravet.com Mary Fisher CARE Fund: https://www.uab.edu/medicine/cfar/mary-fisher     You Tube 1992 Republican Convention Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB5K9k__SOo   Macys.com to see and purchase 100 Good Deeds Bracelets designed by Mary Fisher http://www1.macys.com/shop/for-the-home/fair-trade/Brand/100%20Good%20Deeds?id=58181   Wed, 01 Jun 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara     On today’s show, we have Mary Fisher who is a passionate designer of many trades. She is a textile designer, the author of 6 books, a jewelry designer, artist and photographer! Mary had some terrible news in 1992 that she had been...     On today’s show, we have Mary Fisher who is a passionate designer of many trades. She is a textile designer, the author of 6 books, a jewelry designer, artist and photographer! Mary had some terrible news in 1992 that she had been diagnosed with HIV. Since then her passion to help others has skyrocketed. Her collection “100 Good Deeds” is a perfect of example that she does just that: Helps others. Show Notes: How did Mary get involved with Kravet Inc. What is “100 Good Deeds” jewelry and what does it stand for What resources does she use for “100 Good Deeds”? Who makes the art for “100 Good Deeds”? Don’t let other people define your designs  What kind of people are good to have in business? What advice did Mary’s mentor give her? Resources: Kravet Inc. – kravet.com Mary Fisher CARE Fund: https://www.uab.edu/medicine/cfar/mary-fisher     You Tube 1992 Republican Convention Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB5K9k__SOo   Macys.com to see and purchase 100 Good Deeds Bracelets designed by Mary Fisher http://www1.macys.com/shop/for-the-home/fair-trade/Brand/100%20Good%20Deeds?id=58181    

 

On today’s show, we have Mary Fisher who is a passionate designer of many trades. She is a textile designer, the author of 6 books, a jewelry designer, artist and photographer! Mary had some terrible news in 1992 that she had been diagnosed with HIV. Since then her passion to help others has skyrocketed. Her collection “100 Good Deeds” is a perfect of example that she does just that: Helps others.

Show Notes:

  • How did Mary get involved with Kravet Inc.
  • What is “100 Good Deeds” jewelry and what does it stand for
  • What resources does she use for “100 Good Deeds”?
  • Who makes the art for “100 Good Deeds”?
  • Don’t let other people define your designs 
  • What kind of people are good to have in business?
  • What advice did Mary’s mentor give her?

Resources:

Kravet Inc. – kravet.com

Mary Fisher CARE Fund:

https://www.uab.edu/medicine/cfar/mary-fisher     You Tube 1992 Republican Convention Speech:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB5K9k__SOo

  Macys.com to see and purchase 100 Good Deeds Bracelets designed by Mary Fisher http://www1.macys.com/shop/for-the-home/fair-trade/Brand/100%20Good%20Deeds?id=58181   ]]> 3752 no 33: Arlene Angard - Mix 1 Part Passion + 1 Part Strategy = Success! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/-arlene-angard Arlene Angard is a New York City Interior Designer. She manages a full service interior architecture and design firm that specializes in luxury residential and new age commercial. She has been an Art Curator and table top connoisseur most of her life. She has curated global art exhibits, participated in art culture panels and collected fine art from around the world. She recently launched a colorful collection of area rugs inspired by her extensive travels abroad.   She tries to learn as much as she can about her clients' lifestyle and her design decisions are made within this context. Her work has been featured in prestigious magazines such as  Elle Decor, The New York Times, Traditional Home Magazine, New York Spaces Magazine, Luxe Interior + Design Magazine, Ocean Drive Magazine, EL UNIVERSAL, 1stdibs Introspective Magazine, NYC Cottage & Gardens and numerous other design and art publications.    Arlene came from Venezuela to New York in 1997 to pursue her Orthodontics program. She enjoyed New York and pursued another specialization, TMD (temporomandibular) after completing her Orthodontics. As creativity has always been in her blood, she enrolled at the New York School of Interior Design and decided to become an interior designer. As an interior designer, she noticed that her clients didn’t have the right art pieces for their homes and she was always looking for the correct art pieces to match her clients’ furniture pieces and décor. Arlene decided to open her own art gallery. She owns and manages an art gallery at Madison Avenue. She set up the art gallery to help both her clients and the artists community in the city. She gives the artists a space to feature their artworks. She sets up art gallery events depending on the season, one for the winter, one for spring, one for summer, and one for fall. She focuses on contemporary art pieces but she loves learning anything about art. Emerging artists attract clients because they offer a different budget. Arlene has pieces for different budget levels. To source art, she goes to art events to look for new artists worldwide. She is also approached by artists and art dealers who know her as a contemporary art dealer. Arlene discovered that since NY spaces are small, she had to custom-make the furniture pieces to fit the client’s space. Still they are all high-end pieces made of exotic woods and with high gloss lacquer. Her exotic wood furniture includes tables, dining tables, meeting tables, and coffee tables, wing back chairs, ottomans, classic chairs. The main idea of Arlene’s line of furniture is to have the best quality to help the interior designers and clients to complement the pieces they already have. Most of Arlene’s clients go to her Gallery to discuss their projects. Then if projects are feasible, Arlene visits their home. Distant clients communicate with her first by sending measurements of their space. Arlene is a member of the prestigious 1stdibs.com family. Arlene is also designing custom area rugs. Learn what materials she is using for rugs. She compares a project to delivering a baby. Know that if a client is decisive, work would take 6 months, if the client is indecisive, it would take 9 months, sending samples back and forth. Arlene serves high-end national and international clients. Her advice to new designers: Write down the list of goals to be accomplished daily and week. You have to pursue your dreams with passion. It’s a lot of work to be an interior designer and if you want to succeed, don’t count the hours, the sky is the limit….Do it with passion and every time that you find a product that doesn’t work for you, go far beyond, try to design a new one for your client. If you cannot design, go to a manufacturing company and ask if they can do a custom piece for you. She also recommends that a future designer must have a strategy, persistence, patience, dedication, and must be highly organized. A business plan is also a must. I’m a humble connoisseur but I have an expert eye. I want to be active as an art dealer and as an interior designer as well. – Arlene Angard. When you love what you’re doing, when you have the passion to do it, then the time you spent doing it doesn’t matter at all. – Arlene Angard   Arlene’s Art Gallery: 15 East 71st Street & Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021 E-mail: arlene@arleneangard.com Arlene’s website: http://arleneangard.com Mon, 30 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Arlene Angard is a New York City Interior Designer. She manages a full service interior architecture and design firm that specializes in luxury residential and new age commercial. She has been an Art Curator and table top connoisseur most of her life.... Arlene Angard is a New York City Interior Designer. She manages a full service interior architecture and design firm that specializes in luxury residential and new age commercial. She has been an Art Curator and table top connoisseur most of her life. She has curated global art exhibits, participated in art culture panels and collected fine art from around the world. She recently launched a colorful collection of area rugs inspired by her extensive travels abroad.   She tries to learn as much as she can about her clients' lifestyle and her design decisions are made within this context. Her work has been featured in prestigious magazines such as  Elle Decor, The New York Times, Traditional Home Magazine, New York Spaces Magazine, Luxe Interior + Design Magazine, Ocean Drive Magazine, EL UNIVERSAL, 1stdibs Introspective Magazine, NYC Cottage & Gardens and numerous other design and art publications.    Arlene came from Venezuela to New York in 1997 to pursue her Orthodontics program. She enjoyed New York and pursued another specialization, TMD (temporomandibular) after completing her Orthodontics. As creativity has always been in her blood, she enrolled at the New York School of Interior Design and decided to become an interior designer. As an interior designer, she noticed that her clients didn’t have the right art pieces for their homes and she was always looking for the correct art pieces to match her clients’ furniture pieces and décor. Arlene decided to open her own art gallery. She owns and manages an art gallery at Madison Avenue. She set up the art gallery to help both her clients and the artists community in the city. She gives the artists a space to feature their artworks. She sets up art gallery events depending on the season, one for the winter, one for spring, one for summer, and one for fall. She focuses on contemporary art pieces but she loves learning anything about art. Emerging artists attract clients because they offer a different budget. Arlene has pieces for different budget levels. To source art, she goes to art events to look for new artists worldwide. She is also approached by artists and art dealers who know her as a contemporary art dealer. Arlene discovered that since NY spaces are small, she had to custom-make the furniture pieces to fit the client’s space. Still they are all high-end pieces made of exotic woods and with high gloss lacquer. Her exotic wood furniture includes tables, dining tables, meeting tables, and coffee tables, wing back chairs, ottomans, classic chairs. The main idea of Arlene’s line of furniture is to have the best quality to help the interior designers and clients to complement the pieces they already have. Most of Arlene’s clients go to her Gallery to discuss their projects. Then if projects are feasible, Arlene visits their home. Distant clients communicate with her first by sending measurements of their space. Arlene is a member of the prestigious 1stdibs.com family. Arlene is also designing custom area rugs. Learn what materials she is using for rugs. She compares a project to delivering a baby. Know that if a client is decisive, work would take 6 months, if the client is indecisive, it would take 9 months, sending samples back and forth. Arlene serves high-end national and international clients. Her advice to new designers: Write down the list of goals to be accomplished daily and week. You have to pursue your dreams with passion. It’s a lot of work to be an interior designer and if you want to succeed, don’t count the hours, the sky is the limit….Do it with passion and every time that you find a product that doesn’t work for you, go far beyond, try to design a new one for your client. If you cannot design, go to a manufacturing company and ask if they can do a custom piece for you. She also recommends that a future designer must have a strategy, persistence, patience, dedication, and must be highly organized. A business plan is also a must. I’m a humble connoisseur but I have an expert eye. I want to be active as an art dealer and as an interior designer as well. – Arlene Angard. When you love what you’re doing, when you have the passion to do it, then the time you spent doing it doesn’t matter at all. – Arlene Angard   Arlene’s Art Gallery: 15 East 71st Street & Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021 E-mail: arlene@arleneangard.com Arlene’s website: http://arleneangard.com Arlene Angard is a New York City Interior Designer. She manages a full service interior architecture and design firm that specializes in luxury residential and new age commercial. She has been an Art Curator and table top connoisseur most of her life. She has curated global art exhibits, participated in art culture panels and collected fine art from around the world. She recently launched a colorful collection of area rugs inspired by her extensive travels abroad.  

She tries to learn as much as she can about her clients' lifestyle and her design decisions are made within this context. Her work has been featured in prestigious magazines such as  Elle Decor, The New York Times, Traditional Home Magazine, New York Spaces Magazine, Luxe Interior + Design Magazine, Ocean Drive Magazine, EL UNIVERSAL, 1stdibs Introspective Magazine, NYC Cottage & Gardens and numerous other design and art publications.   

  • Arlene came from Venezuela to New York in 1997 to pursue her Orthodontics program.
  • She enjoyed New York and pursued another specialization, TMD (temporomandibular) after completing her Orthodontics.
  • As creativity has always been in her blood, she enrolled at the New York School of Interior Design and decided to become an interior designer.
  • As an interior designer, she noticed that her clients didn’t have the right art pieces for their homes and she was always looking for the correct art pieces to match her clients’ furniture pieces and décor.
  • Arlene decided to open her own art gallery. She owns and manages an art gallery at Madison Avenue.
  • She set up the art gallery to help both her clients and the artists community in the city. She gives the artists a space to feature their artworks.
  • She sets up art gallery events depending on the season, one for the winter, one for spring, one for summer, and one for fall.
  • She focuses on contemporary art pieces but she loves learning anything about art. Emerging artists attract clients because they offer a different budget. Arlene has pieces for different budget levels.
  • To source art, she goes to art events to look for new artists worldwide. She is also approached by artists and art dealers who know her as a contemporary art dealer.
  • Arlene discovered that since NY spaces are small, she had to custom-make the furniture pieces to fit the client’s space. Still they are all high-end pieces made of exotic woods and with high gloss lacquer.
  • Her exotic wood furniture includes tables, dining tables, meeting tables, and coffee tables, wing back chairs, ottomans, classic chairs.
  • The main idea of Arlene’s line of furniture is to have the best quality to help the interior designers and clients to complement the pieces they already have.
  • Most of Arlene’s clients go to her Gallery to discuss their projects. Then if projects are feasible, Arlene visits their home.
  • Distant clients communicate with her first by sending measurements of their space.
  • Arlene is a member of the prestigious 1stdibs.com family.
  • Arlene is also designing custom area rugs.
  • Learn what materials she is using for rugs.
  • She compares a project to delivering a baby.
  • Know that if a client is decisive, work would take 6 months, if the client is indecisive, it would take 9 months, sending samples back and forth.
  • Arlene serves high-end national and international clients.
  • Her advice to new designers: Write down the list of goals to be accomplished daily and week. You have to pursue your dreams with passion. It’s a lot of work to be an interior designer and if you want to succeed, don’t count the hours, the sky is the limit….Do it with passion and every time that you find a product that doesn’t work for you, go far beyond, try to design a new one for your client. If you cannot design, go to a manufacturing company and ask if they can do a custom piece for you.
  • She also recommends that a future designer must have a strategy, persistence, patience, dedication, and must be highly organized. A business plan is also a must.
  • I’m a humble connoisseur but I have an expert eye. I want to be active as an art dealer and as an interior designer as well. – Arlene Angard.
  • When you love what you’re doing, when you have the passion to do it, then the time you spent doing it doesn’t matter at all. – Arlene Angard

  Arlene’s Art Gallery: 15 East 71st Street & Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021

E-mail: arlene@arleneangard.com

Arlene’s website: http://arleneangard.com

]]> 2811 no 32: Robin Baron - The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/32-robin-baron-the-president-of-asid-ny-metro-chapter-talks-with-us-about-pr-and-brand-development Robin Baron, interior designer and lifestyle expert creates homes that are uniquely fabulous , yet captures  her clients’ individual personalities . She brings a striking sense of style to everything she does.   Her motto “Confidence begins at home” helps her guide her style and design in creating a sense of  happiness, fulfillment,  and peace in her clients. She prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities in their homes.  She is currently the President of  American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for  New York  Metro Chapter;    Robin is affiliated with many industry organizations, including:  Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), The  International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA), Interior Design Society (IDS), Women in the Home Industries Today (WithIt), International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Women President's Organization (WPO) , The Beacon Group, Founding Member Board of the Devereux Glenholme School, Benefit Committee of the Promise Project   Over the years, her clientele has grown to include many celebrities and top personalities. She feels that the best design work comes from the collaboration between her creative vision and the lifestyle and vision of her clients.  She has been on TV and in the media, including HGTV She has also been featured in many print and online magazines including  ElleDecor.com, Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, New York Cottages & Gardens,  Redbook magazine, among many others.  She has spoken at events such as D&D Building, New York Design Center, NY School of Interior Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, Zoffany, Benjamin Moore, and many others.  In her blog:  “Simplifying Fabulous”, she shares her design and lifestyle tips and more. She has a multi-platform social media presence.  She gives back by actively contributing to several charitable organizations.  She is also the founder of an independent living program for high-functioning young adults on the autistic spectrum She finds inspiration around her and always says:   “You never know where you’re going to find inspiration so always have an open eye and an open mind.”   “Our goal is to create beautiful homes that empower our clients and reflect their lifestyles.” – Robin Baron Her services include:  Space planning, floor plans, CAD drawings, Furniture, décor, finish selections, Custom furniture design, Window treatment design, Interior architectural design, Project management, Pre-construction consulting,  bath & kitchen design,  comprehensive interior design services, and selection  of construction-related materials and surfaces including: mouldings, doors, flooring, hardware, plumbing selections, etc. You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/robinbaron Wed, 25 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Robin Baron, interior designer and lifestyle expert creates homes that are uniquely fabulous , yet captures  her clients’ individual personalities . She brings a striking sense of style to everything she does.   Her motto “Confidence... Robin Baron, interior designer and lifestyle expert creates homes that are uniquely fabulous , yet captures  her clients’ individual personalities . She brings a striking sense of style to everything she does.   Her motto “Confidence begins at home” helps her guide her style and design in creating a sense of  happiness, fulfillment,  and peace in her clients. She prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities in their homes.  She is currently the President of  American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for  New York  Metro Chapter;    Robin is affiliated with many industry organizations, including:  Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), The  International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA), Interior Design Society (IDS), Women in the Home Industries Today (WithIt), International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Women President's Organization (WPO) , The Beacon Group, Founding Member Board of the Devereux Glenholme School, Benefit Committee of the Promise Project   Over the years, her clientele has grown to include many celebrities and top personalities. She feels that the best design work comes from the collaboration between her creative vision and the lifestyle and vision of her clients.  She has been on TV and in the media, including HGTV She has also been featured in many print and online magazines including  ElleDecor.com, Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, New York Cottages & Gardens,  Redbook magazine, among many others.  She has spoken at events such as D&D Building, New York Design Center, NY School of Interior Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, Zoffany, Benjamin Moore, and many others.  In her blog:  “Simplifying Fabulous”, she shares her design and lifestyle tips and more. She has a multi-platform social media presence.  She gives back by actively contributing to several charitable organizations.  She is also the founder of an independent living program for high-functioning young adults on the autistic spectrum She finds inspiration around her and always says:   “You never know where you’re going to find inspiration so always have an open eye and an open mind.”   “Our goal is to create beautiful homes that empower our clients and reflect their lifestyles.” – Robin Baron Her services include:  Space planning, floor plans, CAD drawings, Furniture, décor, finish selections, Custom furniture design, Window treatment design, Interior architectural design, Project management, Pre-construction consulting,  bath & kitchen design,  comprehensive interior design services, and selection  of construction-related materials and surfaces including: mouldings, doors, flooring, hardware, plumbing selections, etc. You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/robinbaron Robin Baron, interior designer and lifestyle expert creates homes that are uniquely fabulous , yet captures  her clients’ individual personalities . She brings a striking sense of style to everything she does.  

  • Her motto “Confidence begins at home” helps her guide her style and design in creating a sense of  happiness, fulfillment,  and peace in her clients.
  • She prides herself on her ability to capture her clients’ individual personalities in their homes. 
  • She is currently the President of  American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for  New York  Metro Chapter; 

 

  • Robin is affiliated with many industry organizations, including:  Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), The  International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA), Interior Design Society (IDS), Women in the Home Industries Today (WithIt), International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Women President's Organization (WPO) , The Beacon Group, Founding Member Board of the Devereux Glenholme School, Benefit Committee of the Promise Project

 

  • Over the years, her clientele has grown to include many celebrities and top personalities.
  • She feels that the best design work comes from the collaboration between her creative vision and the lifestyle and vision of her clients. 
  • She has been on TV and in the media, including HGTV
  • She has also been featured in many print and online magazines including  ElleDecor.com, Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, New York Cottages & Gardens,  Redbook magazine, among many others. 
  • She has spoken at events such as D&D Building, New York Design Center, NY School of Interior Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, Zoffany, Benjamin Moore, and many others. 
  • In her blog:  “Simplifying Fabulous”, she shares her design and lifestyle tips and more.
  • She has a multi-platform social media presence. 
  • She gives back by actively contributing to several charitable organizations. 
  • She is also the founder of an independent living program for high-functioning young adults on the autistic spectrum
  • She finds inspiration around her and always says:   “You never know where you’re going to find inspiration so always have an open eye and an open mind.”  
  • “Our goal is to create beautiful homes that empower our clients and reflect their lifestyles.” – Robin Baron
  • Her services include:  Space planning, floor plans, CAD drawings, Furniture, décor, finish selections, Custom furniture design, Window treatment design, Interior architectural design, Project management, Pre-construction consulting,  bath & kitchen design,  comprehensive interior design services, and selection  of construction-related materials and surfaces including: mouldings, doors, flooring, hardware, plumbing selections, etc.

You can read the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/robinbaron

]]> 2620 no 31: Steven Cooper - The Value of a Trusted Vendor http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/31-steven-cooper-the-value-of-a-trusted-vendor Steven Cooper is the CEO of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, the experts in the field of kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, interior design, engineering, and installation.  Through innovation and premium design, Steven’s team always aims to bring each client’s  unique vision  and sense of expression to life. They provide homeowners with functional kitchen spaces that are stunning expressions of their individual tastes.  Cooper Pacific Kitchens was founded in 1986 by Neil and Shirley Cooper, Steven’s parents. They have just celebrated their 30th year in business. Steven’s parents have retired and the business is now managed by Steven and her 2 daughters. One of them is already working full time and the other daughter is still in school and is working part time. His daughters are training on the managing of logistics, scheduling, and installation. They have a team of highly qualified kitchen designers. They are based in Los Angeles, California They have projects all over the country and outside USA too. Cooper Pacific Kitchens is also a resource center for the kitchen design business and experts. It may take a thousand details in creating and designing a beautiful kitchen. A Team of designers and engineers help put the kitchen together. They always keep up to date with the latest developments in appliances, construction materials, new processes and trends. It’s a fast-changing world. The team has to know which appliance to recommend for each particular client and for which particular location in the kitchen or home – the ovens, dishwasher, cabinets, all other appliances such as refs. He often recommends the combination convection and steam oven rather than microwave oven. The steam oven is taking the place of microwave. Each project is a collaborative work of experts Every team member is given due recognition and importance. Synergy among the team is valued. Steven’s projects are worth six figures each and every one is very careful not to make any mistake. Steven is on the line for all the minutiae of the work – the small, precise details of the project in order to avoid mistakes RESOURCES   www.cooperpacific.com   Mon, 23 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Steven Cooper is the CEO of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, the experts in the field of kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, interior design, engineering, and installation.  Through innovation and premium design, Steven’s team always aims to bring each... Steven Cooper is the CEO of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, the experts in the field of kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, interior design, engineering, and installation.  Through innovation and premium design, Steven’s team always aims to bring each client’s  unique vision  and sense of expression to life. They provide homeowners with functional kitchen spaces that are stunning expressions of their individual tastes.  Cooper Pacific Kitchens was founded in 1986 by Neil and Shirley Cooper, Steven’s parents. They have just celebrated their 30th year in business. Steven’s parents have retired and the business is now managed by Steven and her 2 daughters. One of them is already working full time and the other daughter is still in school and is working part time. His daughters are training on the managing of logistics, scheduling, and installation. They have a team of highly qualified kitchen designers. They are based in Los Angeles, California They have projects all over the country and outside USA too. Cooper Pacific Kitchens is also a resource center for the kitchen design business and experts. It may take a thousand details in creating and designing a beautiful kitchen. A Team of designers and engineers help put the kitchen together. They always keep up to date with the latest developments in appliances, construction materials, new processes and trends. It’s a fast-changing world. The team has to know which appliance to recommend for each particular client and for which particular location in the kitchen or home – the ovens, dishwasher, cabinets, all other appliances such as refs. He often recommends the combination convection and steam oven rather than microwave oven. The steam oven is taking the place of microwave. Each project is a collaborative work of experts Every team member is given due recognition and importance. Synergy among the team is valued. Steven’s projects are worth six figures each and every one is very careful not to make any mistake. Steven is on the line for all the minutiae of the work – the small, precise details of the project in order to avoid mistakes RESOURCES   www.cooperpacific.com   Steven Cooper is the CEO of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, the experts in the field of kitchen design, kitchen remodeling, interior design, engineering, and installation.  Through innovation and premium design, Steven’s team always aims to bring each client’s  unique vision  and sense of expression to life.

They provide homeowners with functional kitchen spaces that are stunning expressions of their individual tastes.

 Cooper Pacific Kitchens was founded in 1986 by Neil and Shirley Cooper, Steven’s parents.

  • They have just celebrated their 30th year in business.
  • Steven’s parents have retired and the business is now managed by Steven and her 2 daughters. One of them is already working full time and the other daughter is still in school and is working part time.
  • His daughters are training on the managing of logistics, scheduling, and installation.
  • They have a team of highly qualified kitchen designers.
  • They are based in Los Angeles, California
  • They have projects all over the country and outside USA too.
  • Cooper Pacific Kitchens is also a resource center for the kitchen design business and experts.
  • It may take a thousand details in creating and designing a beautiful kitchen.
  • A Team of designers and engineers help put the kitchen together.
  • They always keep up to date with the latest developments in appliances, construction materials, new processes and trends.
  • It’s a fast-changing world. The team has to know which appliance to recommend for each particular client and for which particular location in the kitchen or home – the ovens, dishwasher, cabinets, all other appliances such as refs. He often recommends the combination convection and steam oven rather than microwave oven. The steam oven is taking the place of microwave.
  • Each project is a collaborative work of experts
  • Every team member is given due recognition and importance.
  • Synergy among the team is valued.
  • Steven’s projects are worth six figures each and every one is very careful not to make any mistake.
  • Steven is on the line for all the minutiae of the work – the small, precise details of the project in order to avoid mistakes

RESOURCES

  www.cooperpacific.com

 

]]> 2963 no 30: Kimberly Serafim - Advice to New Grads in Their 1st Job http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/31-kimberly-serafim-advice-to-new-grads-in-their-1st-job Graduation is coming up! So I thought we would do a week of podcasts giving advice and tips to the new graduates coming into the design business. One of my employees: Kim is our special guest today. She has been out of school for 9 years now and has been working at “Window Works” for 8 years. She is going to share some of her personal experiences from school to job. Kim shares with us: Dealing with one project a semester taught time management and how to deal with deadlines One presentation a year in college Don’t underestimate the projects Look to create teamwork Internships are important ~ start internships as soon as possible to build up resume and get as much experience as you can First intern experience was a “what not to do” experience Organization and having a system in place is important Going from intern to job ~attention to detail very important Expect high expectations~ be prepared to deal with everyday issues Figure out how to deal with what has been given to you Bring good work ethic Pay your dues then you will be able to do the bigger, important jobs Be in the industry even if it’s not a design assistant See how other businesses are run Get the tools to run a business before you start your own firm www.windowworks-nj.com Wed, 18 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Graduation is coming up! So I thought we would do a week of podcasts giving advice and tips to the new graduates coming into the design business. One of my employees: Kim is our special guest today. She has been out of school for 9 years now and has... Graduation is coming up! So I thought we would do a week of podcasts giving advice and tips to the new graduates coming into the design business. One of my employees: Kim is our special guest today. She has been out of school for 9 years now and has been working at “Window Works” for 8 years. She is going to share some of her personal experiences from school to job. Kim shares with us: Dealing with one project a semester taught time management and how to deal with deadlines One presentation a year in college Don’t underestimate the projects Look to create teamwork Internships are important ~ start internships as soon as possible to build up resume and get as much experience as you can First intern experience was a “what not to do” experience Organization and having a system in place is important Going from intern to job ~attention to detail very important Expect high expectations~ be prepared to deal with everyday issues Figure out how to deal with what has been given to you Bring good work ethic Pay your dues then you will be able to do the bigger, important jobs Be in the industry even if it’s not a design assistant See how other businesses are run Get the tools to run a business before you start your own firm www.windowworks-nj.com Graduation is coming up! So I thought we would do a week of podcasts giving advice and tips to the new graduates coming into the design business. One of my employees: Kim is our special guest today. She has been out of school for 9 years now and has been working at “Window Works” for 8 years. She is going to share some of her personal experiences from school to job.

Kim shares with us:

  • Dealing with one project a semester taught time management and how to deal with deadlines
  • One presentation a year in college
  • Don’t underestimate the projects
  • Look to create teamwork
  • Internships are important ~ start internships as soon as possible to build up resume and get as much experience as you can
  • First intern experience was a “what not to do” experience
  • Organization and having a system in place is important
  • Going from intern to job ~attention to detail very important
  • Expect high expectations~ be prepared to deal with everyday issues
  • Figure out how to deal with what has been given to you
  • Bring good work ethic
  • Pay your dues then you will be able to do the bigger, important jobs
  • Be in the industry even if it’s not a design assistant
  • See how other businesses are run
  • Get the tools to run a business before you start your own firm

www.windowworks-nj.com

]]> 3361 no 29: Shannon Leddy Returns for Graduation Week- Best Tips for Landing Your 1st Job http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/29-shannon-leddy-returns-for-graduation-week-best-tips-for-landing-your-1st-job This is Shannon Leddy’s second time on the show! We are so happy to have her back! She is going to share some tips on how students can be more effective before and after graduation. Shannon shares with us: Keep up with your portfolios- think about how you need to set it up Have some flare with your outfit going to an interview Research the firm you are going for an interview for Go on as many interviews as you can  Ask for feedback even if you didn’t get the job The follow up- know what you want to get paid Ask about benefits and overtime Stay at a job for at least 6 months- give it a chance Make and keep relationships on good terms Keep up with education Look to see what you have to do to be a certified interior designer Shannon's Website Mon, 16 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara This is Shannon Leddy’s second time on the show! We are so happy to have her back! She is going to share some tips on how students can be more effective before and after graduation. Shannon shares with us: Keep up with your portfolios- think about... This is Shannon Leddy’s second time on the show! We are so happy to have her back! She is going to share some tips on how students can be more effective before and after graduation. Shannon shares with us: Keep up with your portfolios- think about how you need to set it up Have some flare with your outfit going to an interview Research the firm you are going for an interview for Go on as many interviews as you can  Ask for feedback even if you didn’t get the job The follow up- know what you want to get paid Ask about benefits and overtime Stay at a job for at least 6 months- give it a chance Make and keep relationships on good terms Keep up with education Look to see what you have to do to be a certified interior designer Shannon's Website This is Shannon Leddy’s second time on the show! We are so happy to have her back! She is going to share some tips on how students can be more effective before and after graduation.

Shannon shares with us:

  • Keep up with your portfolios- think about how you need to set it up
  • Have some flare with your outfit going to an interview
  • Research the firm you are going for an interview for
  • Go on as many interviews as you can 
  • Ask for feedback even if you didn’t get the job
  • The follow up- know what you want to get paid
  • Ask about benefits and overtime
  • Stay at a job for at least 6 months- give it a chance
  • Make and keep relationships on good terms
  • Keep up with education
  • Look to see what you have to do to be a certified interior designer

Shannon's Website

]]> 3477 no 28: Andrew Suvalsky - What Are You Waiting For? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/28-andrew-suvalsky-what-are-you-waiting-for Andrew Suvalsky has been in the interior design business for 11 and a half years! He worked for icon designer Benjamin Noriega Ortiz for a time and then established his own business: Andrew Suvalsky Designs. Andrew has a very interesting story about how he got started in his business and some great tips for running your own business that he learned along the way. Andrew shares with us: 10-year business mark was a turning point Bought two apartments and renovated them Worked from home for a time Sometimes you just need a nudge Listen to the “voice”! You have to take risks! In the new place the first three months were slow It took a year or so for everything to come true A business coach is a good idea Have knowledge on the different jobs in your business Be flexible Links Mentioned: www.suvalskydesigns.com Wed, 11 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Andrew Suvalsky has been in the interior design business for 11 and a half years! He worked for icon designer Benjamin Noriega Ortiz for a time and then established his own business: Andrew Suvalsky Designs. Andrew has a very interesting story about... Andrew Suvalsky has been in the interior design business for 11 and a half years! He worked for icon designer Benjamin Noriega Ortiz for a time and then established his own business: Andrew Suvalsky Designs. Andrew has a very interesting story about how he got started in his business and some great tips for running your own business that he learned along the way. Andrew shares with us: 10-year business mark was a turning point Bought two apartments and renovated them Worked from home for a time Sometimes you just need a nudge Listen to the “voice”! You have to take risks! In the new place the first three months were slow It took a year or so for everything to come true A business coach is a good idea Have knowledge on the different jobs in your business Be flexible Links Mentioned: www.suvalskydesigns.com Andrew Suvalsky has been in the interior design business for 11 and a half years! He worked for icon designer Benjamin Noriega Ortiz for a time and then established his own business: Andrew Suvalsky Designs. Andrew has a very interesting story about how he got started in his business and some great tips for running your own business that he learned along the way.

Andrew shares with us:

  • 10-year business mark was a turning point
  • Bought two apartments and renovated them
  • Worked from home for a time
  • Sometimes you just need a nudge
  • Listen to the “voice”!
  • You have to take risks!
  • In the new place the first three months were slow
  • It took a year or so for everything to come true
  • A business coach is a good idea
  • Have knowledge on the different jobs in your business
  • Be flexible

Links Mentioned:

www.suvalskydesigns.com

]]> 3860 no 27: Marlaina Teich- Balancing the Line Between Interior Designer and Therapist http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/27-marlaina-teich-balancing-the-line-between-interior-designer-and-therapist Marlaina Teich has been in business for ten plus years with her business Marlaina Teich Designs. She did not start out in interior design. She started out in fashion and then had a family and while she was home taking care of family she decided to go back to school for interior design. It turns out going to school and starting her own business in interior design was a great choice. Marlaina has some great advice on how to avoid the blurry lines between an interior designer and client(s). Marlaina shares with us: Success of client = relationship with client The top signs that your client is crossing the line How to draw the line Interior designer therapy How to deal with the “elephant” in the room Don’t get taken advantage of Know your worth! Learn to delegate How to keep up with time with clients Limit alcohol Links Mentioned: www.mtdny.com  Mon, 09 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Marlaina Teich has been in business for ten plus years with her business Marlaina Teich Designs. She did not start out in interior design. She started out in fashion and then had a family and while she was home taking care of family she decided to go... Marlaina Teich has been in business for ten plus years with her business Marlaina Teich Designs. She did not start out in interior design. She started out in fashion and then had a family and while she was home taking care of family she decided to go back to school for interior design. It turns out going to school and starting her own business in interior design was a great choice. Marlaina has some great advice on how to avoid the blurry lines between an interior designer and client(s). Marlaina shares with us: Success of client = relationship with client The top signs that your client is crossing the line How to draw the line Interior designer therapy How to deal with the “elephant” in the room Don’t get taken advantage of Know your worth! Learn to delegate How to keep up with time with clients Limit alcohol Links Mentioned: www.mtdny.com  Marlaina Teich has been in business for ten plus years with her business Marlaina Teich Designs. She did not start out in interior design. She started out in fashion and then had a family and while she was home taking care of family she decided to go back to school for interior design. It turns out going to school and starting her own business in interior design was a great choice. Marlaina has some great advice on how to avoid the blurry lines between an interior designer and client(s).

Marlaina shares with us:

  • Success of client = relationship with client
  • The top signs that your client is crossing the line
  • How to draw the line
  • Interior designer therapy
  • How to deal with the “elephant” in the room
  • Don’t get taken advantage of
  • Know your worth!
  • Learn to delegate
  • How to keep up with time with clients
  • Limit alcohol

Links Mentioned:

]]> 3815 no 26: Kae Whitaker- Branding Your Business- Finally I Understand It! http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/26-kae-whitaker-branding-your-business-finally-i-understand-it Kae Whitaker and her husband/business partner have a unique business called Kae Whitaker Solutions. Kae is a personal branding and business development coach who specializes in creative business. She will teach you specific strategies to build your business to success. Remember “just because you are a master at design does not mean you are a master at business.” Kae shares with us: What about brands? Know the background Personality draws customers You need to have core values to make decisions Initial coaching sessions: how they work How she works together with her husband Sometimes you need to have people to delegate to Tips for struggling businesses Links Mentioned: www.kaewhitaker.com  www.instagram.com/kaewhitaker  www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker  www.twitter.com/kaewhitaker  www.snapchat.com/kaewhitaker  www.periscope.com/kaewhitaker www.periscope.com/tv/kaewhitaker  Wed, 04 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Kae Whitaker and her husband/business partner have a unique business called Kae Whitaker Solutions. Kae is a personal branding and business development coach who specializes in creative business. She will teach you specific strategies to build... Kae Whitaker and her husband/business partner have a unique business called Kae Whitaker Solutions. Kae is a personal branding and business development coach who specializes in creative business. She will teach you specific strategies to build your business to success. Remember “just because you are a master at design does not mean you are a master at business.” Kae shares with us: What about brands? Know the background Personality draws customers You need to have core values to make decisions Initial coaching sessions: how they work How she works together with her husband Sometimes you need to have people to delegate to Tips for struggling businesses Links Mentioned: www.kaewhitaker.com  www.instagram.com/kaewhitaker  www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker  www.twitter.com/kaewhitaker  www.snapchat.com/kaewhitaker  www.periscope.com/kaewhitaker www.periscope.com/tv/kaewhitaker  Kae Whitaker and her husband/business partner have a unique business called Kae Whitaker Solutions. Kae is a personal branding and business development coach who specializes in creative business. She will teach you specific strategies to build your business to success. Remember “just because you are a master at design does not mean you are a master at business.”

Kae shares with us:

  • What about brands?
  • Know the background
  • Personality draws customers
  • You need to have core values to make decisions
  • Initial coaching sessions: how they work
  • How she works together with her husband
  • Sometimes you need to have people to delegate to
  • Tips for struggling businesses

Links Mentioned:

www.kaewhitaker.com 

www.instagram.com/kaewhitaker 

www.facebook.com/kaewhitaker 

www.twitter.com/kaewhitaker 

www.snapchat.com/kaewhitaker 

www.periscope.com/kaewhitaker

www.periscope.com/tv/kaewhitaker 

]]> 3854 no 25: Peter Fasano - An Exceptional Artist, A Humble Man http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/25-peter-fasano-an-exceptional-artist-a-humble-man On the show today, we have Peter Fasano who sells hand-silk screen, hand painted fabrics and wall coverings. Peter’s story is special because he discovered his business by accident. He had gotten out of the Army and started painting, and that’s where he discovered the potential for a successful business. Peter has done just that: made a super successful and environmentally friendly business, I might add! Peter shares with us: Art gallery vs. fabric painting Location, location, location Fabric painter vs. fabric designer He works with his wife and has been for forever 1/3 of his studio is commissioned by other designers His most rewarding experience A new collection! His work is showcased in 15 states in the United States and in other countries! Links Mentioned: www.elizabethhamiltoncollection.com  www.peterfasano.com  Mon, 02 May 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On the show today, we have Peter Fasano who sells hand-silk screen, hand painted fabrics and wall coverings. Peter’s story is special because he discovered his business by accident. He had gotten out of the Army and started painting, and that’s... On the show today, we have Peter Fasano who sells hand-silk screen, hand painted fabrics and wall coverings. Peter’s story is special because he discovered his business by accident. He had gotten out of the Army and started painting, and that’s where he discovered the potential for a successful business. Peter has done just that: made a super successful and environmentally friendly business, I might add! Peter shares with us: Art gallery vs. fabric painting Location, location, location Fabric painter vs. fabric designer He works with his wife and has been for forever 1/3 of his studio is commissioned by other designers His most rewarding experience A new collection! His work is showcased in 15 states in the United States and in other countries! Links Mentioned: www.elizabethhamiltoncollection.com  www.peterfasano.com  On the show today, we have Peter Fasano who sells hand-silk screen, hand painted fabrics and wall coverings. Peter’s story is special because he discovered his business by accident. He had gotten out of the Army and started painting, and that’s where he discovered the potential for a successful business. Peter has done just that: made a super successful and environmentally friendly business, I might add!

Peter shares with us:

  • Art gallery vs. fabric painting
  • Location, location, location
  • Fabric painter vs. fabric designer
  • He works with his wife and has been for forever
  • 1/3 of his studio is commissioned by other designers
  • His most rewarding experience
  • A new collection!
  • His work is showcased in 15 states in the United States and in other countries!

Links Mentioned:

]]> 2843 no 24: Krista Coupar- Not Your Average Business Consultant http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/24-krista-coupar-not-your-average-business-consultant I am so excited about our guest today on the show. Krista Coupar has a unique business that includes business coaching, PR, marketing, staffing, design support and management. Wow! She can work virtually or in person. If you can FedEx, you can work. You have got to listen to this episode! It will blow your mind! Krista shares with us: Showcasing designers work online Started business coaching in 2007 The who, what, when, where, why and how much you should spend on billable How to get the least amount of pushback Plan out your day Facing the “NO” Don’t be afraid to ask for help Online designing for designers Have a place to hold court Links Mentioned: www.couparconsulting.com  www.instagram.com/couparconsulting  www.facebook.com/couparconsulting  krista@couparconsulting.com  Wed, 27 Apr 2016 13:49:17 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara I am so excited about our guest today on the show. Krista Coupar has a unique business that includes business coaching, PR, marketing, staffing, design support and management. Wow! She can work virtually or in person. If you can FedEx, you can work.... I am so excited about our guest today on the show. Krista Coupar has a unique business that includes business coaching, PR, marketing, staffing, design support and management. Wow! She can work virtually or in person. If you can FedEx, you can work. You have got to listen to this episode! It will blow your mind! Krista shares with us: Showcasing designers work online Started business coaching in 2007 The who, what, when, where, why and how much you should spend on billable How to get the least amount of pushback Plan out your day Facing the “NO” Don’t be afraid to ask for help Online designing for designers Have a place to hold court Links Mentioned: www.couparconsulting.com  www.instagram.com/couparconsulting  www.facebook.com/couparconsulting  krista@couparconsulting.com  I am so excited about our guest today on the show. Krista Coupar has a unique business that includes business coaching, PR, marketing, staffing, design support and management. Wow! She can work virtually or in person. If you can FedEx, you can work. You have got to listen to this episode! It will blow your mind!

Krista shares with us:

  • Showcasing designers work online
  • Started business coaching in 2007
  • The who, what, when, where, why and how much you should spend on billable
  • How to get the least amount of pushback
  • Plan out your day
  • Facing the “NO”
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help
  • Online designing for designers
  • Have a place to hold court

Links Mentioned:

]]> 4062 no 23: Rio Hamilton - Media Expert and Author of the Wildly Popular Industry Blog, Mon Oncle http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/23-rio-hamilton-media-expert-and-author-of-the-wildly-popular-industry-blog-mon-oncle Rio Hamilton is a marketing and business development strategist who is based in Manhattan for interior design industry. He has had the privilege to work at NIEDERMAIER and be an apprentice to Judy Niedermaier as director of sales and marketing. He also has a wonderful blog. If you have not read it, you should! Rio shares with us:  Designed his own furniture Niedermaier was family owned until doors closed Share your knowledge The Holiday House How does his business work? Mon Oncle How did the blog come about? Unexpected things make things fun Bigger camera = serious Links Mentioned: www.riohamilton.com  http://www.riohamilton.com/2015/09/the-profile-all-about-alexa.html   http://design-bloggers-conference.com   Mon, 25 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Rio Hamilton is a marketing and business development strategist who is based in Manhattan for interior design industry. He has had the privilege to work at NIEDERMAIER and be an apprentice to Judy Niedermaier as director of sales and marketing. He... Rio Hamilton is a marketing and business development strategist who is based in Manhattan for interior design industry. He has had the privilege to work at NIEDERMAIER and be an apprentice to Judy Niedermaier as director of sales and marketing. He also has a wonderful blog. If you have not read it, you should! Rio shares with us:  Designed his own furniture Niedermaier was family owned until doors closed Share your knowledge The Holiday House How does his business work? Mon Oncle How did the blog come about? Unexpected things make things fun Bigger camera = serious Links Mentioned: www.riohamilton.com  http://www.riohamilton.com/2015/09/the-profile-all-about-alexa.html   http://design-bloggers-conference.com   Rio Hamilton is a marketing and business development strategist who is based in Manhattan for interior design industry. He has had the privilege to work at NIEDERMAIER and be an apprentice to Judy Niedermaier as director of sales and marketing. He also has a wonderful blog. If you have not read it, you should!

Rio shares with us: 

  • Designed his own furniture
  • Niedermaier was family owned until doors closed
  • Share your knowledge
  • The Holiday House
  • How does his business work?
  • Mon Oncle
  • How did the blog come about?
  • Unexpected things make things fun
  • Bigger camera = serious

Links Mentioned:

www.riohamilton.com 

http://www.riohamilton.com/2015/09/the-profile-all-about-alexa.html

 

http://design-bloggers-conference.com

 

]]> 3634 no 22: Fred Berns - How to Create a Killer Bio http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/22-fred-bern-how-to-create-a-killer-bio Fred Berns is a Denver based coach for interior designers. He teaches interior designers how to be successful at copywriting and Bios. His motto is “Your most important sale is a personal sale.” You wouldn’t believe how many ways you can use your bio. Fred has some very in depth information and tips on how to beef up that bio, so that it really sells you. Fred shares with us:  Best way to promote yourself- most important sale is a personal sale What goes into a good bio? Is there an order the information should be placed? Don’t sell yourself short Your bio is worth more than just the “about me” section of your website Links Mentioned: www.biobriefing.com  www.interiordesignbusiness.net  fred@fredberns.com 303-589-3013 Wed, 20 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Fred Berns is a Denver based coach for interior designers. He teaches interior designers how to be successful at copywriting and Bios. His motto is “Your most important sale is a personal sale.” You wouldn’t believe how many... Fred Berns is a Denver based coach for interior designers. He teaches interior designers how to be successful at copywriting and Bios. His motto is “Your most important sale is a personal sale.” You wouldn’t believe how many ways you can use your bio. Fred has some very in depth information and tips on how to beef up that bio, so that it really sells you. Fred shares with us:  Best way to promote yourself- most important sale is a personal sale What goes into a good bio? Is there an order the information should be placed? Don’t sell yourself short Your bio is worth more than just the “about me” section of your website Links Mentioned: www.biobriefing.com  www.interiordesignbusiness.net  fred@fredberns.com 303-589-3013 Fred Berns is a Denver based coach for interior designers. He teaches interior designers how to be successful at copywriting and Bios. His motto is “Your most important sale is a personal sale.” You wouldn’t believe how many ways you can use your bio. Fred has some very in depth information and tips on how to beef up that bio, so that it really sells you.

Fred shares with us: 

  • Best way to promote yourself- most important sale is a personal sale
  • What goes into a good bio?
  • Is there an order the information should be placed?
  • Don’t sell yourself short
  • Your bio is worth more than just the “about me” section of your website

Links Mentioned:

]]> 3471 no 21: Stacy Garcia- A Thoughtful Conversation with a Design Visionary http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/21-stacy-garcia-a-thoughtful-conversation-with-a-design-visionary Our guest today is our first guest who specializes in hospitality! Stacy Garcia has three different businesses in three different markets! Talk about talent! Stacy has a degree from Syracuse University in Surface Pattern Design. She started her first business in 1999 called Lebatex Inc. and she named it after her great grandmother. So sweet! Stacy is going to share some great advice on the differences between trends and fads and how to use it to your advantage. Stacy shares with us: Worked at Ralph Lauren Educate yourself! What is the difference between a trend and a fad? Influencers “Trend is your friend” How to forecast Her new brands! Links Mentioned: www.stacygarcianewyork.com  www.stacygarciainc.com  Mon, 18 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Our guest today is our first guest who specializes in hospitality! Stacy Garcia has three different businesses in three different markets! Talk about talent! Stacy has a degree from Syracuse University in Surface Pattern Design. She started her first... Our guest today is our first guest who specializes in hospitality! Stacy Garcia has three different businesses in three different markets! Talk about talent! Stacy has a degree from Syracuse University in Surface Pattern Design. She started her first business in 1999 called Lebatex Inc. and she named it after her great grandmother. So sweet! Stacy is going to share some great advice on the differences between trends and fads and how to use it to your advantage. Stacy shares with us: Worked at Ralph Lauren Educate yourself! What is the difference between a trend and a fad? Influencers “Trend is your friend” How to forecast Her new brands! Links Mentioned: www.stacygarcianewyork.com  www.stacygarciainc.com  Our guest today is our first guest who specializes in hospitality! Stacy Garcia has three different businesses in three different markets! Talk about talent! Stacy has a degree from Syracuse University in Surface Pattern Design. She started her first business in 1999 called Lebatex Inc. and she named it after her great grandmother. So sweet! Stacy is going to share some great advice on the differences between trends and fads and how to use it to your advantage.

Stacy shares with us:

  • Worked at Ralph Lauren
  • Educate yourself!
  • What is the difference between a trend and a fad?
  • Influencers
  • “Trend is your friend”
  • How to forecast
  • Her new brands!

Links Mentioned:

]]> 4148 no 20: Arianne Bellizaire - Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/20-arianne-bellizaire-could-your-hobby-or-hidden-talent-be-your-marketing-platform Today on the show we are going to talk to Arianne Bellizaire! Arianne is not only a successful business owner of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors, she is a blogger, public speaker and an author of a Kindle Amazon top seller! She has been featured in several magazines. What really makes Arianne’s website so special are her videos. The story behind her passion for using videos in her work is very touching. Arianne shares with us: How the videos on her website came to be Have the customer tell the story IMovie on mac Measure time with video How did she start her platform? Keep learning new things Find what you are good at or passionate about and figure out a way to incorporate that into your work “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less” More books coming soon?? Use outlines to see progress Links Mentioned: www.ariannebellizaire.com Get her book “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less” Check out this video of Arianne that we mentioned in the show Wed, 13 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we are going to talk to Arianne Bellizaire! Arianne is not only a successful business owner of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors, she is a blogger, public speaker and an author of a Kindle Amazon top seller! She has been featured in... Today on the show we are going to talk to Arianne Bellizaire! Arianne is not only a successful business owner of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors, she is a blogger, public speaker and an author of a Kindle Amazon top seller! She has been featured in several magazines. What really makes Arianne’s website so special are her videos. The story behind her passion for using videos in her work is very touching. Arianne shares with us: How the videos on her website came to be Have the customer tell the story IMovie on mac Measure time with video How did she start her platform? Keep learning new things Find what you are good at or passionate about and figure out a way to incorporate that into your work “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less” More books coming soon?? Use outlines to see progress Links Mentioned: www.ariannebellizaire.com Get her book “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less” Check out this video of Arianne that we mentioned in the show Today on the show we are going to talk to Arianne Bellizaire! Arianne is not only a successful business owner of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors, she is a blogger, public speaker and an author of a Kindle Amazon top seller! She has been featured in several magazines. What really makes Arianne’s website so special are her videos. The story behind her passion for using videos in her work is very touching.

Arianne shares with us:

  • How the videos on her website came to be
  • Have the customer tell the story
  • IMovie on mac
  • Measure time with video
  • How did she start her platform?
  • Keep learning new things
  • Find what you are good at or passionate about and figure out a way to incorporate that into your work
  • “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less”
  • More books coming soon??
  • Use outlines to see progress

Links Mentioned:

www.ariannebellizaire.com

Get her book “How To Get Moved In & Totally Unpacked: In 30 Days Or Less”

Check out this video of Arianne that we mentioned in the show

]]> 3409 no 19: Susan Jamieson – Bring Your Retail Product to Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/19-susan-jamieson-bring-your-retail-product-to-market Welcome back! Today we are going to be talking to a fabulous designer who is always up for a new adventure: Susan Jamieson. Susan has been an interior designer for 25 years and has been featured in several magazines and tv shows. Her newest projects include her own paint line called Bridget Beari paints that has about 200 different colors and custom wallpaper designs. Stay tuned to hear her tips and upcoming projects and events! Susan shares with us: Richmond show house pictures- you have to check them out on her website! What is Design on a Dime? Have a PR agent to help get out past your local area Blogging since 2007 Is there a book coming??? Where does she get the names of her products? Links Mentioned: Bridgetbearidesigns.com windowworks-nj.com/Susan   Mon, 11 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Susan has been an interior designer for 25 years and has been featured in several magazines and tv shows. Welcome back! Today we are going to be talking to a fabulous designer who is always up for a new adventure: Susan Jamieson. Susan has been an interior designer for 25 years and has been featured in several magazines and tv shows. Her newest projects include her own paint line called Bridget Beari paints that has about 200 different colors and custom wallpaper designs. Stay tuned to hear her tips and upcoming projects and events! Susan shares with us: Richmond show house pictures- you have to check them out on her website! What is Design on a Dime? Have a PR agent to help get out past your local area Blogging since 2007 Is there a book coming??? Where does she get the names of her products? Links Mentioned: Bridgetbearidesigns.com windowworks-nj.com/Susan   Welcome back! Today we are going to be talking to a fabulous designer who is always up for a new adventure: Susan Jamieson. Susan has been an interior designer for 25 years and has been featured in several magazines and tv shows. Her newest projects include her own paint line called Bridget Beari paints that has about 200 different colors and custom wallpaper designs. Stay tuned to hear her tips and upcoming projects and events!

Susan shares with us:

  • Richmond show house pictures- you have to check them out on her website!
  • What is Design on a Dime?
  • Have a PR agent to help get out past your local area
  • Blogging since 2007
  • Is there a book coming???
  • Where does she get the names of her products?

Links Mentioned:

Bridgetbearidesigns.com

windowworks-nj.com/Susan

 

]]> 2764 no 18: Vanessa DeLeon - Triple D: Drive- Dedication- Discipline http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/18-vanessa-deleon-triple-d-drive-dedication-determination Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences. Vanessa shares with us: The triple “D’s” What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20 When does the momentum pick up? Dreams do come true Are vision boards a yes or a no? Entitlement…I don’t think so! Vacation? What’s that? Wed, 06 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She... Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences. Vanessa shares with us: The triple “D’s” What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20 When does the momentum pick up? Dreams do come true Are vision boards a yes or a no? Entitlement…I don’t think so! Vacation? What’s that? Today on the show we have a brilliant and when I say brilliant I really mean it, brilliant business woman: Vanessa DeLeon. Vanessa has starred on several television shows on some big television networks such as NBC, Bravo, HGTV and DIY Network. She has also been in several magazines such as TIME, Cosmopolitan etc. and on top of that she is a spokesperson! Wow! Talk about impressive resume! Please stay tuned to hear all of her great advice and her shared experiences.

Vanessa shares with us:

  • The triple “D’s”
  • What she would have done differently before starting her own business at 20
  • When does the momentum pick up?
  • Dreams do come true
  • Are vision boards a yes or a no?
  • Entitlement…I don’t think so!
  • Vacation? What’s that?
]]> 3238 no 17: Elizabeth Lamont- Running a Successful Retail Store http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/17-elizabeth-lamont-running-a-successful-retail-store Elizabeth Lamont is a self-made entrepreneur, interior designer and the owner of her store “Room at the Beach”, which has been named a top store in LA Magazine to name a few of her accomplishments. She has been in business since 1990! Elizabeth shares with us her tips and advice on how to be successful and stay successful. You don’t want to miss out on this episode! Elizabeth shares with us: Her transition from a 5500 sq. ft. store to an 1800 sq. ft. store! How to source product Make your shop an experience! Kravet = the best The most important thing to remember! How to be successful in business Vision boards! What is in the future for Elizabeth… Check out the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/elizabeth Mon, 04 Apr 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Elizabeth Lamont is a self-made entrepreneur, interior designer and the owner of her store “Room at the Beach”, which has been named a top store in LA Magazine to name a few of her accomplishments. She has been in business since 1990!... Elizabeth Lamont is a self-made entrepreneur, interior designer and the owner of her store “Room at the Beach”, which has been named a top store in LA Magazine to name a few of her accomplishments. She has been in business since 1990! Elizabeth shares with us her tips and advice on how to be successful and stay successful. You don’t want to miss out on this episode! Elizabeth shares with us: Her transition from a 5500 sq. ft. store to an 1800 sq. ft. store! How to source product Make your shop an experience! Kravet = the best The most important thing to remember! How to be successful in business Vision boards! What is in the future for Elizabeth… Check out the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/elizabeth Elizabeth Lamont is a self-made entrepreneur, interior designer and the owner of her store “Room at the Beach”, which has been named a top store in LA Magazine to name a few of her accomplishments. She has been in business since 1990! Elizabeth shares with us her tips and advice on how to be successful and stay successful. You don’t want to miss out on this episode!

Elizabeth shares with us:

  • Her transition from a 5500 sq. ft. store to an 1800 sq. ft. store!
  • How to source product
  • Make your shop an experience!
  • Kravet = the best
  • The most important thing to remember!
  • How to be successful in business
  • Vision boards!
  • What is in the future for Elizabeth…

Check out the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/elizabeth

]]> 4442 no 16: Charles Pavarini – Behind the Scenes of The Architectural Digest Design Show 2016 http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/16-charles-pavarini-behind-the-scenes-of-the-architectural-digest-design-show-2016 Charles founded Pavarini Design nearly 30 years ago and it is a full-scale New York based Interior Design Firm that specializes in Architectural Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design and Lighting Design.   Charles has sat on the Designer’s Lighting Forum of New York, board of directors for twenty-eight years. And his talent has earned 21 awards for excellence in design over his career. The list includes the most prestigious of lighting awards, the coveted Lumen Award. In addition he has received the Interior Design Magazine Best of Year Award for Architectural Lighting, an Award of Merit from the Illuminating Engineering Society for Lighting, a 2014 International Property Award for the Americas, an ASID Design Specialty Award, a CODA Works Award for a Public Art Installation,a Circle of Excellence Award and now lets add- to the list an award for Best in Show Architectural Digest Design. You can see the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/charles Wed, 30 Mar 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Charles founded Pavarini Design nearly 30 years ago and it is a full-scale New York based Interior Design Firm that specializes in Architectural Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design and Lighting Design.   Charles has sat on the... Charles founded Pavarini Design nearly 30 years ago and it is a full-scale New York based Interior Design Firm that specializes in Architectural Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design and Lighting Design.   Charles has sat on the Designer’s Lighting Forum of New York, board of directors for twenty-eight years. And his talent has earned 21 awards for excellence in design over his career. The list includes the most prestigious of lighting awards, the coveted Lumen Award. In addition he has received the Interior Design Magazine Best of Year Award for Architectural Lighting, an Award of Merit from the Illuminating Engineering Society for Lighting, a 2014 International Property Award for the Americas, an ASID Design Specialty Award, a CODA Works Award for a Public Art Installation,a Circle of Excellence Award and now lets add- to the list an award for Best in Show Architectural Digest Design. You can see the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/charles Charles founded Pavarini Design nearly 30 years ago and it is a full-scale New York based Interior Design Firm that specializes in Architectural Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design and Lighting Design.  

Charles has sat on the Designer’s Lighting Forum of New York, board of directors for twenty-eight years.

And his talent has earned 21 awards for excellence in design over his career. The list includes the most prestigious of lighting awards, the coveted Lumen Award. In addition he has received the Interior Design Magazine Best of Year Award for Architectural Lighting, an Award of Merit from the Illuminating Engineering Society for Lighting, a 2014 International Property Award for the Americas, an ASID Design Specialty Award, a CODA Works Award for a Public Art Installation,a Circle of Excellence Award and now lets add- to the list an award for Best in Show Architectural Digest Design.

You can see the full show notes at www.windowworks-nj.com/charles

]]> 4352 no 15: Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/15-nancy-ganzkaufer-niche-is-rich Today on the show we have Nancy Ganzekaufer! Nancy is an art and accessories consultant. She is the founder and owner of her business Expressive Living. Before her business she worked in banking all the way to vice president! After this she was a stay at home mom and then became a personal trainer. While trying to figure out what to do next she got a phone call from her mother one day that would change career plans. Her mother wanted to get rid of her art work. Nancy started having home art parties and this is how her business in art and accessories all began. Nancy shares with us: Build relationships “Niche is rich and broad is broke” Research, research, research! Tools to success New business??? Free giveaways!! Links Mentioned: nancy@expressiveliving.com Mon, 28 Mar 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have Nancy Ganzekaufer! Nancy is an art and accessories consultant. She is the founder and owner of her business Expressive Living. Before her business she worked in banking all the way to vice president! After this she was a stay... Today on the show we have Nancy Ganzekaufer! Nancy is an art and accessories consultant. She is the founder and owner of her business Expressive Living. Before her business she worked in banking all the way to vice president! After this she was a stay at home mom and then became a personal trainer. While trying to figure out what to do next she got a phone call from her mother one day that would change career plans. Her mother wanted to get rid of her art work. Nancy started having home art parties and this is how her business in art and accessories all began. Nancy shares with us: Build relationships “Niche is rich and broad is broke” Research, research, research! Tools to success New business??? Free giveaways!! Links Mentioned: nancy@expressiveliving.com Today on the show we have Nancy Ganzekaufer! Nancy is an art and accessories consultant. She is the founder and owner of her business Expressive Living. Before her business she worked in banking all the way to vice president! After this she was a stay at home mom and then became a personal trainer. While trying to figure out what to do next she got a phone call from her mother one day that would change career plans. Her mother wanted to get rid of her art work. Nancy started having home art parties and this is how her business in art and accessories all began.

Nancy shares with us:

  • Build relationships
  • “Niche is rich and broad is broke”
  • Research, research, research!
  • Tools to success
  • New business???
  • Free giveaways!!

Links Mentioned:

  • nancy@expressiveliving.com
]]> 2799 no 14 Malene Barnett Success Secret - Build Relationships http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/14-malene-barnett-success-secret-build-relationships Rock star designer Malene Barnett created and built her business specializing in handcrafting custom carpets and dabbling in wall design and tile design. She has a background in surface design from F.I.T (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York. Malene has some great advice to share with us! Show Notes: Inspiration from experiences behind her work How to get from point A to point B starting out Growth plans E-guide series! Links Mentioned: www.designsponge.com  www.maleneb.com    You can get all the resources at http://windowworks-nj.com/malene Wed, 23 Mar 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Rock star designer Malene Barnett created and built her business specializing in handcrafting custom carpets and dabbling in wall design and tile design. She has a background in surface design from F.I.T (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York.... Rock star designer Malene Barnett created and built her business specializing in handcrafting custom carpets and dabbling in wall design and tile design. She has a background in surface design from F.I.T (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York. Malene has some great advice to share with us! Show Notes: Inspiration from experiences behind her work How to get from point A to point B starting out Growth plans E-guide series! Links Mentioned: www.designsponge.com  www.maleneb.com    You can get all the resources at http://windowworks-nj.com/malene Rock star designer Malene Barnett created and built her business specializing in handcrafting custom carpets and dabbling in wall design and tile design. She has a background in surface design from F.I.T (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York. Malene has some great advice to share with us!

Show Notes:

  • Inspiration from experiences behind her work
  • How to get from point A to point B starting out
  • Growth plans
  • E-guide series!

Links Mentioned:

 

You can get all the resources at http://windowworks-nj.com/malene

]]> 2059 no 13: Jeffrey Brooks - 30+ Successful Years in Interior Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/13-jeffery-brooks-30-successful-years-in-interior-design Jeff Brooks has been a designer in business for 30 years! When he was starting out in the design world he did a lot of kitchen design until he decided to open his own design firm in 1986. He does a lot of residential work and has been interested in earth work and environmental design. Jeff has some fantastic advice for designers starting out or even designers who have been doing their thing for any amount of time!   Show Notes: What is the best use of a space? Hospitality and public spaces Execute a plan! How to let someone know if the designer is within their budget       Where does the inspiration come from? Be kind “Plan every project by starting with the intended result”. Jeffrey Brooks   Links Mentioned: Jeff’s Website Mon, 21 Mar 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Jeff Brooks has been a designer in business for 30 years! When he was starting out in the design world he did a lot of kitchen design until he decided to open his own design firm in 1986. He does a lot of residential work and has been interested in... Jeff Brooks has been a designer in business for 30 years! When he was starting out in the design world he did a lot of kitchen design until he decided to open his own design firm in 1986. He does a lot of residential work and has been interested in earth work and environmental design. Jeff has some fantastic advice for designers starting out or even designers who have been doing their thing for any amount of time!   Show Notes: What is the best use of a space? Hospitality and public spaces Execute a plan! How to let someone know if the designer is within their budget       Where does the inspiration come from? Be kind “Plan every project by starting with the intended result”. Jeffrey Brooks   Links Mentioned: Jeff’s Website Jeff Brooks has been a designer in business for 30 years! When he was starting out in the design world he did a lot of kitchen design until he decided to open his own design firm in 1986. He does a lot of residential work and has been interested in earth work and environmental design. Jeff has some fantastic advice for designers starting out or even designers who have been doing their thing for any amount of time!  

Show Notes:

  • What is the best use of a space?
  • Hospitality and public spaces
  • Execute a plan!
  • How to let someone know if the designer is within their budget      
  • Where does the inspiration come from?
  • Be kind

“Plan every project by starting with the intended result”. Jeffrey Brooks

 

Links Mentioned:

Jeff’s Website

]]> 2769 no 12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published with Ren Miller http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/12-how-to-get-your-interior-design-projects-published-with-ren-miller   Today my guest is Ren Miller: editor in chief of Design New Jersey! Ren has a background in design and editorial management. He worked with newspapers and then worked with a jewelry magazine. On 9/11 he caught a bus to get to his home in New Jersey and made the observation that the other people were just trying to get home because home is safe. That was his aha moment when he realized he wanted to work for a magazine that portrayed homes. He applied to Design New Jersey and was fortunate enough to get the job. Ren has worked his way up to where he is now and has been doing a fabulous job as editor in chief!  Ren Miller shares with us: Why should designers want to put their work in publication? Know the magazine Keep up with the trends White rooms in publication Background How to get accepted The “No’s” Links Mentioned: www.barnesandnobles.com www.designnewjersey.com    Wed, 16 Mar 2016 07:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara   Today my guest is Ren Miller: editor in chief of Design New Jersey! Ren has a background in design and editorial management. He worked with newspapers and then worked with a jewelry magazine. On 9/11 he caught a bus to get to his home in New...   Today my guest is Ren Miller: editor in chief of Design New Jersey! Ren has a background in design and editorial management. He worked with newspapers and then worked with a jewelry magazine. On 9/11 he caught a bus to get to his home in New Jersey and made the observation that the other people were just trying to get home because home is safe. That was his aha moment when he realized he wanted to work for a magazine that portrayed homes. He applied to Design New Jersey and was fortunate enough to get the job. Ren has worked his way up to where he is now and has been doing a fabulous job as editor in chief!  Ren Miller shares with us: Why should designers want to put their work in publication? Know the magazine Keep up with the trends White rooms in publication Background How to get accepted The “No’s” Links Mentioned: www.barnesandnobles.com www.designnewjersey.com     

Today my guest is Ren Miller: editor in chief of Design New Jersey! Ren has a background in design and editorial management. He worked with newspapers and then worked with a jewelry magazine. On 9/11 he caught a bus to get to his home in New Jersey and made the observation that the other people were just trying to get home because home is safe. That was his aha moment when he realized he wanted to work for a magazine that portrayed homes. He applied to Design New Jersey and was fortunate enough to get the job. Ren has worked his way up to where he is now and has been doing a fabulous job as editor in chief! 

Ren Miller shares with us:

  • Why should designers want to put their work in publication?
  • Know the magazine
  • Keep up with the trends
  • White rooms in publication
  • Background
  • How to get accepted
  • The “No’s”

Links Mentioned:

 

]]> 3525 no 11: Robin LaMonte: Re-Launching Your Interior Design Firm in a New Market http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/11-robin-lamonte-re-launching-your-interior-design-firm-in-a-new-market Robin LaMonte is an amazing interior designer who is based in Atlanta. She spent 13 years in New Jersey building her name and then she and her husband made the decision to move to Atlanta. Robin has started her empire from scratch…again. Today’s show is all about re-establishing yourself and your business after a move to a new city or state. But truthfully the strategies we discuss apply if you are beginning your interior design business or even if you need to give a boost to your established firm. Robin shares with us how she has accomplished this and gives advice for other designers who are starting out in today's episode! Mon, 14 Mar 2016 13:09:06 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Robin LaMonte is an amazing interior designer who is based in Atlanta. She spent 13 years in New Jersey building her name and then she and her husband made the decision to move to Atlanta. Robin has started her empire from... Robin LaMonte is an amazing interior designer who is based in Atlanta. She spent 13 years in New Jersey building her name and then she and her husband made the decision to move to Atlanta. Robin has started her empire from scratch…again. Today’s show is all about re-establishing yourself and your business after a move to a new city or state. But truthfully the strategies we discuss apply if you are beginning your interior design business or even if you need to give a boost to your established firm. Robin shares with us how she has accomplished this and gives advice for other designers who are starting out in today's episode! Robin LaMonte is an amazing interior designer who is based in Atlanta. She spent 13 years in New Jersey building her name and then she and her husband made the decision to move to Atlanta. Robin has started her empire from scratch…again. Today’s show is all about re-establishing yourself and your business after a move to a new city or state. But truthfully the strategies we discuss apply if you are beginning your interior design business or even if you need to give a boost to your established firm.

Robin shares with us how she has accomplished this and gives advice for other designers who are starting out in today's episode!

]]> 2473 no 10: Denise McGaha - Deadline Driven Design http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/10-denise-mcgaha-deadline-driven-design Denise and her team deliver diverse and fashionable designs for those who live on the fast track. Her company specializes in turnkey, concierge-level services---in as little as 90 days! They execute high-end interior design projects with their organization and signature deadline-driven design solutions. Denise honed her business practices, sophisticated methodology, and solid business acumen while working with Neiman-Marcus. You will be impressed with what she accomplishes with her relatively small staff. Join us for more from Denise! In this episode, you’ll hear the following: Denise’s business is built on a three-tiered philosophy: Delivered in 90 days, Designed in a Day, and Designer Full-Time. Stay tuned to learn more! Denise’s full-service design came first, as she found a niche for people who want things quickly. “Doing the job faster means getting your money faster!” The niche was needed in the industry; Denise asked, “How can we brand it and make it happen?” Her systems are driven by project plans, timelines, and a very scheduled process. There are multiple team members working on multiple projects. Organization and precise communication are essential for the Delivered in 90 Days option! The client has to be ready to make decisions and move fast, just as Denise’s team does. Every decision, order, and email has a deadline attached to it to keep the process moving. This business requires a strong team who are ready to work within the timelines, and requires respect and trust from clients. Surprisingly, Denise accomplishes this with just THREE employees! The initial timeline is 2-4 weeks until presentation is made to the client, and then the team hits the ground running when a contract is secured. Denise operates in other locations outside the Dallas area, but those are more difficult and present greater limitations. Not every client comes to Denise for the 90-day timeline; many come for the design quality. For other designers who question this process, Denise asks, “How much time did you spend and how much did you bill for? What if you compressed the time? How much time is wasted from week to week?” The Designer Full-time option is a complete project, with construction, furnishings, etc. These are large projects that take 1-2 years to complete. Denise implements a screening process for clients so that she can understand their needs and the scope of the project. She gives great advice for accepting clients and knowing which clients are NOT a good fit; it all comes down to chemistry! Designed in a Day gives Denise the opportunity to get out of the office for a day to help a client who wants a quick update with what they already have in place.  Denise runs down the entire process of her Designed in a Day option, which is an unusual niche that fosters a face to face relationship and connection for the future. Denise explains her partnership with Curated Kravet, the sponsor of our podcast. They are one of her favorite vendors, and she explains why! Denise designed vignettes for them with their fabrics and in-stock items. You can view it online! Denise’s advice for designers: Make a plan for all that you do and your processes. See where you can be very, very efficient. Work smarter, not harder. There is no need to fret over decisions. Denise explains her upcoming project Show House in New Orleans, already in the design process! Resources: www.curatedkravet.com www.denisemcgaha.com www.windowworks-nj.com/denise  Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Denise and her team deliver diverse and fashionable designs for those who live on the fast track. Her company specializes in turnkey, concierge-level services---in as little as 90 days! They execute high-end interior design projects with their... Denise and her team deliver diverse and fashionable designs for those who live on the fast track. Her company specializes in turnkey, concierge-level services---in as little as 90 days! They execute high-end interior design projects with their organization and signature deadline-driven design solutions. Denise honed her business practices, sophisticated methodology, and solid business acumen while working with Neiman-Marcus. You will be impressed with what she accomplishes with her relatively small staff. Join us for more from Denise! In this episode, you’ll hear the following: Denise’s business is built on a three-tiered philosophy: Delivered in 90 days, Designed in a Day, and Designer Full-Time. Stay tuned to learn more! Denise’s full-service design came first, as she found a niche for people who want things quickly. “Doing the job faster means getting your money faster!” The niche was needed in the industry; Denise asked, “How can we brand it and make it happen?” Her systems are driven by project plans, timelines, and a very scheduled process. There are multiple team members working on multiple projects. Organization and precise communication are essential for the Delivered in 90 Days option! The client has to be ready to make decisions and move fast, just as Denise’s team does. Every decision, order, and email has a deadline attached to it to keep the process moving. This business requires a strong team who are ready to work within the timelines, and requires respect and trust from clients. Surprisingly, Denise accomplishes this with just THREE employees! The initial timeline is 2-4 weeks until presentation is made to the client, and then the team hits the ground running when a contract is secured. Denise operates in other locations outside the Dallas area, but those are more difficult and present greater limitations. Not every client comes to Denise for the 90-day timeline; many come for the design quality. For other designers who question this process, Denise asks, “How much time did you spend and how much did you bill for? What if you compressed the time? How much time is wasted from week to week?” The Designer Full-time option is a complete project, with construction, furnishings, etc. These are large projects that take 1-2 years to complete. Denise implements a screening process for clients so that she can understand their needs and the scope of the project. She gives great advice for accepting clients and knowing which clients are NOT a good fit; it all comes down to chemistry! Designed in a Day gives Denise the opportunity to get out of the office for a day to help a client who wants a quick update with what they already have in place.  Denise runs down the entire process of her Designed in a Day option, which is an unusual niche that fosters a face to face relationship and connection for the future. Denise explains her partnership with Curated Kravet, the sponsor of our podcast. They are one of her favorite vendors, and she explains why! Denise designed vignettes for them with their fabrics and in-stock items. You can view it online! Denise’s advice for designers: Make a plan for all that you do and your processes. See where you can be very, very efficient. Work smarter, not harder. There is no need to fret over decisions. Denise explains her upcoming project Show House in New Orleans, already in the design process! Resources: www.curatedkravet.com www.denisemcgaha.com www.windowworks-nj.com/denise  Denise and her team deliver diverse and fashionable designs for those who live on the fast track. Her company specializes in turnkey, concierge-level services---in as little as 90 days! They execute high-end interior design projects with their organization and signature deadline-driven design solutions. Denise honed her business practices, sophisticated methodology, and solid business acumen while working with Neiman-Marcus. You will be impressed with what she accomplishes with her relatively small staff. Join us for more from Denise!

In this episode, you’ll hear the following:

  • Denise’s business is built on a three-tiered philosophy: Delivered in 90 days, Designed in a Day, and Designer Full-Time. Stay tuned to learn more!
  • Denise’s full-service design came first, as she found a niche for people who want things quickly.
  • “Doing the job faster means getting your money faster!”
  • The niche was needed in the industry; Denise asked, “How can we brand it and make it happen?”
  • Her systems are driven by project plans, timelines, and a very scheduled process.
  • There are multiple team members working on multiple projects.
  • Organization and precise communication are essential for the Delivered in 90 Days option!
  • The client has to be ready to make decisions and move fast, just as Denise’s team does.
  • Every decision, order, and email has a deadline attached to it to keep the process moving.
  • This business requires a strong team who are ready to work within the timelines, and requires respect and trust from clients.
  • Surprisingly, Denise accomplishes this with just THREE employees!
  • The initial timeline is 2-4 weeks until presentation is made to the client, and then the team hits the ground running when a contract is secured.
  • Denise operates in other locations outside the Dallas area, but those are more difficult and present greater limitations.
  • Not every client comes to Denise for the 90-day timeline; many come for the design quality.
  • For other designers who question this process, Denise asks, “How much time did you spend and how much did you bill for? What if you compressed the time? How much time is wasted from week to week?”
  • The Designer Full-time option is a complete project, with construction, furnishings, etc. These are large projects that take 1-2 years to complete.
  • Denise implements a screening process for clients so that she can understand their needs and the scope of the project.
  • She gives great advice for accepting clients and knowing which clients are NOT a good fit; it all comes down to chemistry!
  • Designed in a Day gives Denise the opportunity to get out of the office for a day to help a client who wants a quick update with what they already have in place. 
  • Denise runs down the entire process of her Designed in a Day option, which is an unusual niche that fosters a face to face relationship and connection for the future.
  • Denise explains her partnership with Curated Kravet, the sponsor of our podcast. They are one of her favorite vendors, and she explains why!
  • Denise designed vignettes for them with their fabrics and in-stock items. You can view it online!
  • Denise’s advice for designers:
    • Make a plan for all that you do and your processes.
    • See where you can be very, very efficient.
    • Work smarter, not harder.
    • There is no need to fret over decisions.
  • Denise explains her upcoming project Show House in New Orleans, already in the design process!

Resources:

www.curatedkravet.com

www.denisemcgaha.com

www.windowworks-nj.com/denise 

]]> 3107 no 09: Rona Spiegel- Follow Your Inspiration No Matter Where You Are in Your Career http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/09-rona-spiegel-follow-your-inspiration-no-matter-where-you-are-in-your-career Today on the show we have the talented, go getter Rona Speigel! Rona started her own business, Lifestyle Designs in 1980. About 4 years ago she started another business, Red-Zebra. Red- Zebra started out as just photography but then grew into something extraordinary! Rona shares with us in this episode: How Red-Zebra came to be The “sideline” What is ADA? The process of post-production  Links Mentioned: www.red-zebra.net rjsid@att.net – email Mon, 07 Mar 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today on the show we have the talented, go getter Rona Speigel! Rona started her own business, Lifestyle Designs in 1980. About 4 years ago she started another business, Red-Zebra. Red- Zebra started out as just photography but then grew into... Today on the show we have the talented, go getter Rona Speigel! Rona started her own business, Lifestyle Designs in 1980. About 4 years ago she started another business, Red-Zebra. Red- Zebra started out as just photography but then grew into something extraordinary! Rona shares with us in this episode: How Red-Zebra came to be The “sideline” What is ADA? The process of post-production  Links Mentioned: www.red-zebra.net rjsid@att.net – email Today on the show we have the talented, go getter Rona Speigel! Rona started her own business, Lifestyle Designs in 1980. About 4 years ago she started another business, Red-Zebra. Red- Zebra started out as just photography but then grew into something extraordinary!

Rona shares with us in this episode:

  • How Red-Zebra came to be
  • The “sideline”
  • What is ADA?
  • The process of post-production 

Links Mentioned:

]]> 3317 no 08: Barbara Ostrom: Curtain Up! Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/08-barbara-ostrom-curtain-up-thirty-years-of-spectacular-showhouse-rooms Today’s guest is the queen of show houses: Barbara Ostrom! Barbara attended New York University and New York school of Interior Design and then went on to get her masters in architectural design from Pratt and received a graduate certificate from Sorbonne in Paris. After working as, a designer’s assistant for 8 years and then working with a company that designs stores she decided to start her own business. When Barbara first started out showhouse rooms were not popular. Since then she has really shown that she knows how to work the showhouse rooms. You can check out some of her fantastic showhouse rooms in her book: “Curtain Up!: Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms”. To read the full show notes click here. Wed, 02 Mar 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Today’s guest is the queen of show houses: Barbara Ostrom! Barbara attended New York University and New York school of Interior Design and then went on to get her masters in architectural design from Pratt and received a graduate certificate... Today’s guest is the queen of show houses: Barbara Ostrom! Barbara attended New York University and New York school of Interior Design and then went on to get her masters in architectural design from Pratt and received a graduate certificate from Sorbonne in Paris. After working as, a designer’s assistant for 8 years and then working with a company that designs stores she decided to start her own business. When Barbara first started out showhouse rooms were not popular. Since then she has really shown that she knows how to work the showhouse rooms. You can check out some of her fantastic showhouse rooms in her book: “Curtain Up!: Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms”. To read the full show notes click here. Today’s guest is the queen of show houses: Barbara Ostrom! Barbara attended New York University and New York school of Interior Design and then went on to get her masters in architectural design from Pratt and received a graduate certificate from Sorbonne in Paris. After working as, a designer’s assistant for 8 years and then working with a company that designs stores she decided to start her own business. When Barbara first started out showhouse rooms were not popular. Since then she has really shown that she knows how to work the showhouse rooms. You can check out some of her fantastic showhouse rooms in her book: “Curtain Up!: Thirty Years of Spectacular Showhouse Rooms”.

To read the full show notes click here.

]]> 4807 no 07: How blogging helps my interior design business with Lisa Dreissig http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/07-how-blogging-helps-my-interior-design-business-with-lisa-dreissig Today’s guest is the fantastic Lisa Dreissig! Lisa went to school at The Fashion Institute of Technology. She then worked for several startups and then moved onto an architecture firm. Working with these firms helped her immensely with the starting of her own business. But before she started her own business she created a blog that she started in 2007 when she was laid off from her job. It turns out that this blog has really opened the horizon to be a great way to have people get to know her and find potential clients. Lisa shares with us today how her blog has helped her business and why it’s a good idea for others to start a blog as well. Lisa shares with us in the broadcast: Her inspiration for her blog Platform she uses for her blog How to get through writer’s block Make a personal connection If someone doesn’t like what you post, then don’t work with them Her advice for starting a new blog Her biggest struggle with her blog Recommendations of other blogs to read Links mentioned: www.lisadreissig.com  www.wordpress.com  www.twitter.com/lisadreissig  www.facebook.com/lisadreissigdesignstudio  www.instagram.com/lisadreissig  www.linkedin.com/lisadreissig  www.pinterest.com/pennyrounds  Mon, 29 Feb 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Designer, Blogger, Entrepreneur Lisa Dreissig Today’s guest is the fantastic Lisa Dreissig! Lisa went to school at The Fashion Institute of Technology. She then worked for several startups and then moved onto an architecture firm. Working with these firms helped her immensely with the starting of her own business. But before she started her own business she created a blog that she started in 2007 when she was laid off from her job. It turns out that this blog has really opened the horizon to be a great way to have people get to know her and find potential clients. Lisa shares with us today how her blog has helped her business and why it’s a good idea for others to start a blog as well. Lisa shares with us in the broadcast: Her inspiration for her blog Platform she uses for her blog How to get through writer’s block Make a personal connection If someone doesn’t like what you post, then don’t work with them Her advice for starting a new blog Her biggest struggle with her blog Recommendations of other blogs to read Links mentioned: www.lisadreissig.com  www.wordpress.com  www.twitter.com/lisadreissig  www.facebook.com/lisadreissigdesignstudio  www.instagram.com/lisadreissig  www.linkedin.com/lisadreissig  www.pinterest.com/pennyrounds  Today’s guest is the fantastic Lisa Dreissig! Lisa went to school at The Fashion Institute of Technology. She then worked for several startups and then moved onto an architecture firm. Working with these firms helped her immensely with the starting of her own business. But before she started her own business she created a blog that she started in 2007 when she was laid off from her job. It turns out that this blog has really opened the horizon to be a great way to have people get to know her and find potential clients. Lisa shares with us today how her blog has helped her business and why it’s a good idea for others to start a blog as well.

Lisa shares with us in the broadcast:

  • Her inspiration for her blog
  • Platform she uses for her blog
  • How to get through writer’s block
  • Make a personal connection
  • If someone doesn’t like what you post, then don’t work with them
  • Her advice for starting a new blog
  • Her biggest struggle with her blog
  • Recommendations of other blogs to read

Links mentioned:

]]> 2935 no 06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/06-identifying-your-transferrable-skills-with-erika-ward On today’s show we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot!  Wed, 24 Feb 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara On today’s show we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background... On today’s show we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot!  On today’s show we have the lovely Erika Ward! Erika started out as an accountant for a design, build company. While still working in corporate settings she started her own firm called “Erika Ward Interiors”. She used her background in financing and her creative side to grow her business and has since then built her business to the greatness that it is now. Erika not only works with individual clients but also works close with retail brands like Home Depot! 

]]> 3404 no 05: Christina Perry - Is Online Interior Design Right for Your Firm? http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/05-is-online-interior-design-right-for-your-firm Welcome! Our guest today is the wonderful and talented interior designer, Christina Perry! Christina started at a young age rearranging furniture and accessories and discovering her passion of what she really likes to do. She attended The University of Missouri State and graduated with a bachelor degree in Science in Interior Designing. She then went on to work in several different jobs that showed her different aspects of the interior design industry. She realized that she was really interested in the creative aspect of the interior design industry and wanted to help people create a space that they will enjoy being in.  Christina will share with us in this broadcast: You should always try to continue to learn and grow Her realization that most everything is done online Why doing everything online is a good thing What tools she uses to help her out Interior design software Her client project website What obstacles or problems has she run into? How she is reaching more clients What marketing efforts she is using to let people know her Studio web ware recommendations Make it a personal experience! Have clear open communication! How did she arrive at a la cart pricing? Links mentioned: www.yourvisionmydesign.com  Email: info@yourvisionmydesign.com  www.pinterst.com/designbychristinaperry www.facebook.com/designbychristinaperry  www.twitter.com/designbycperry www.linkedin.com/christina-perry  www.instagram.com/designbychristinaperry www.houzz.com/designbychristinaperry  www.studiowebware.com  www.thumbtack.com  Mon, 22 Feb 2016 08:00:00 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Christina Perry Welcome! Our guest today is the wonderful and talented interior designer, Christina Perry! Christina started at a young age rearranging furniture and accessories and discovering her passion of what she really likes to do. She attended The University of Missouri State and graduated with a bachelor degree in Science in Interior Designing. She then went on to work in several different jobs that showed her different aspects of the interior design industry. She realized that she was really interested in the creative aspect of the interior design industry and wanted to help people create a space that they will enjoy being in.  Christina will share with us in this broadcast: You should always try to continue to learn and grow Her realization that most everything is done online Why doing everything online is a good thing What tools she uses to help her out Interior design software Her client project website What obstacles or problems has she run into? How she is reaching more clients What marketing efforts she is using to let people know her Studio web ware recommendations Make it a personal experience! Have clear open communication! How did she arrive at a la cart pricing? Links mentioned: www.yourvisionmydesign.com  Email: info@yourvisionmydesign.com  www.pinterst.com/designbychristinaperry www.facebook.com/designbychristinaperry  www.twitter.com/designbycperry www.linkedin.com/christina-perry  www.instagram.com/designbychristinaperry www.houzz.com/designbychristinaperry  www.studiowebware.com  www.thumbtack.com  Welcome! Our guest today is the wonderful and talented interior designer, Christina Perry! Christina started at a young age rearranging furniture and accessories and discovering her passion of what she really likes to do. She attended The University of Missouri State and graduated with a bachelor degree in Science in Interior Designing. She then went on to work in several different jobs that showed her different aspects of the interior design industry. She realized that she was really interested in the creative aspect of the interior design industry and wanted to help people create a space that they will enjoy being in. 

Christina will share with us in this broadcast:

  • You should always try to continue to learn and grow
  • Her realization that most everything is done online
  • Why doing everything online is a good thing
  • What tools she uses to help her out
  • Interior design software
  • Her client project website
  • What obstacles or problems has she run into?
  • How she is reaching more clients
  • What marketing efforts she is using to let people know her
  • Studio web ware recommendations
  • Make it a personal experience!
  • Have clear open communication!
  • How did she arrive at a la cart pricing?

Links mentioned:

]]> 2583 no 04: Get People in Your Corner with Paul J. Somerville http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/04-get-people-in-your-corner-with-paul-j-somerville Today’s guest on the show is Paul Somerville! Paul is the owner and creative director for Paul J Somerville Design in Hoboken, NJ.  He has been designing for more than 30 years and I am delighted to share our conversation with you today.  Paul is thoughtful and he has astute observations on the business of interior design.  He is going to share some very insightful ideas on how to run the business part of a designer’s business.  In this episode Paul will share with us: Verbal and written contract? Flat fee and hourly rates? When a goal is reached its usually easier for the client to pay Don’t nickel and dime your clients! Down time is a must Where he gets his inspiration His advice for new comers Design is thinking! Links mentioned: www.pjsomervilledesign.com  email - paul@pjsomervilledesign.com   Wed, 17 Feb 2016 15:38:08 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara LuAnn interviews Paul Somerville of Paul J. Somerville Design Today’s guest on the show is Paul Somerville! Paul is the owner and creative director for Paul J Somerville Design in Hoboken, NJ.  He has been designing for more than 30 years and I am delighted to share our conversation with you today.  Paul is thoughtful and he has astute observations on the business of interior design.  He is going to share some very insightful ideas on how to run the business part of a designer’s business.  In this episode Paul will share with us: Verbal and written contract? Flat fee and hourly rates? When a goal is reached its usually easier for the client to pay Don’t nickel and dime your clients! Down time is a must Where he gets his inspiration His advice for new comers Design is thinking! Links mentioned: www.pjsomervilledesign.com  email - paul@pjsomervilledesign.com   Today’s guest on the show is Paul Somerville! Paul is the owner and creative director for Paul J Somerville Design in Hoboken, NJ.  He has been designing for more than 30 years and I am delighted to share our conversation with you today.  Paul is thoughtful and he has astute observations on the business of interior design. 

He is going to share some very insightful ideas on how to run the business part of a designer’s business. 

In this episode Paul will share with us:

  • Verbal and written contract?
  • Flat fee and hourly rates?
  • When a goal is reached its usually easier for the client to pay
  • Don’t nickel and dime your clients!
  • Down time is a must
  • Where he gets his inspiration
  • His advice for new comers
  • Design is thinking!

Links mentioned:

www.pjsomervilledesign.com 

email - paul@pjsomervilledesign.com

 

]]> 3143 no 03: Things Every Designer Should Know to Run a Successful Design Business with Shannon Leddy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/03-things-every-designer-should-know-to-run-a-successful-design-business-with-shannon-leddy Today on the show our guest is Shannon M. Leddy. Shannon has her own interior design firm in New York that she started thirteen years ago. She is also an Allied member of ASID and an adjunct professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology and also graduated from The Fashion Institute of Technology. Shannon is going to share some of her experiences and advice on the interior design business.   You can read the full show notes here. Mon, 15 Feb 2016 14:53:01 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Shannon Leddy, FIT Faculty, ASID, and Interior Design Firm Owner Today on the show our guest is Shannon M. Leddy. Shannon has her own interior design firm in New York that she started thirteen years ago. She is also an Allied member of ASID and an adjunct professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology and also graduated from The Fashion Institute of Technology. Shannon is going to share some of her experiences and advice on the interior design business.   You can read the full show notes here. Today on the show our guest is Shannon M. Leddy. Shannon has her own interior design firm in New York that she started thirteen years ago. She is also an Allied member of ASID and an adjunct professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology and also graduated from The Fashion Institute of Technology. Shannon is going to share some of her experiences and advice on the interior design business.

 

You can read the full show notes here.

]]> 3065 no 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/02-successful-project-management-within-your-design-business-with-sandra-levy In episode 2, our guest is the founder of Funk Design Studio: Sandra Levy! She is going to be talking to us about how she runs her business, and more specifically how she handles the project management through effective systems within her business. Her best advice: you should be very clear and upfront with everyone on a project and set goals! You can read the full show notes here. Sun, 14 Feb 2016 23:30:10 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Sandra Funk Levy of Funk Design Studio In episode 2, our guest is the founder of Funk Design Studio: Sandra Levy! She is going to be talking to us about how she runs her business, and more specifically how she handles the project management through effective systems within her business. Her best advice: you should be very clear and upfront with everyone on a project and set goals! You can read the full show notes here. In episode 2, our guest is the founder of Funk Design Studio: Sandra Levy! She is going to be talking to us about how she runs her business, and more specifically how she handles the project management through effective systems within her business. Her best advice: you should be very clear and upfront with everyone on a project and set goals!

You can read the full show notes here.

]]> 3289 no 01: Creating Multiple Marketing Platforms for your Business with Heather McManus http://sites.libsyn.com/77848/01-using-video-to-create-passive-income-for-your-business-with-heather-mcmanus In episode 1, LuAnn Nigara sits down with Heather McManus. Heather recently wrote a book and she created a video course. These 2 additional channels have created passive income to supplement Heather's successful design business. She's here today to share with us exactly what she did to make this all come together. You can read the full show notes here. Sun, 14 Feb 2016 22:57:38 -0000 full LuAnn Nigara Heather McManus of Artistry Interiors successfully created a video course that brings her business passive income each month In episode 1, LuAnn Nigara sits down with Heather McManus. Heather recently wrote a book and she created a video course. These 2 additional channels have created passive income to supplement Heather's successful design business. She's here today to share with us exactly what she did to make this all come together. You can read the full show notes here. In episode 1, LuAnn Nigara sits down with Heather McManus. Heather recently wrote a book and she created a video course. These 2 additional channels have created passive income to supplement Heather's successful design business. She's here today to share with us exactly what she did to make this all come together.

You can read the full show notes here.

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